Full text of "Portrait and biographical record of Macoupin County, Illinois : containing biographical sketches of prominent and representative citizens of the county, together with biographies of all the governors of the state, and of the presidents of the United States"

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CONTAINING

Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens

OF THE COUNTY,

Together with Biographies of all the

tovernors of the itate, and of the Presidents

OF THE UNITED STHTES,

CHICAGO:

BIOGRAPHICAL PUBLISHING COMPANY.

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UK greatest of English historians, Macaulay, and oneof the most brilliant writers of
the present century, has said : '-The history of a country is best told ina record of the
lives of its people." In conformity with this idea the Portrait and Biographical
Record Of this county has been prepared. Instead of going to musty records, and
taking therefrom dry statistical matter that can be appreciated by but few, our
corps of writers have gone to the people, the men and women who have, by their
enterprise 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 how some, commencing life in poverty, by
industry and economy hare 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
many, who, not seeking the applause of the world, have pursued '"the even tenor of their way,' - content
to have it said of them as Christ said of the woman performing a deed of mercy — "they have done what
they could." It tells how that many in the pride and 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
be lost upon those who follow after.

Coming generations will appreciate tin's 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
given to those represented to insure correctness in what has been written, and the publishers flatter them-
selves that they give to their readers a work with few errors of consequence. In addition to the biograph-
ical sketches, portraits of a number of representative citizens are given.

The faces of tome, 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 family would oppose the enterprise, and on account of such opposition the support of the interested
one would be withheld. In a few instances men could never be found, though repeated calls were made
at their residence or place of business.

Chicago, October, 1891. CHAPMAN BKOS.

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FIRST PRESIDENT.

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»MftB WASHINCTO&.,

HE Father of our Country was
w) bom in Westmorland Co., Va.,
a Feb. 22, 1732. His parents
^ were Augustine and Mary
(Ball) Washington. The family
to which he belonged has not
been satisfactorily traced in
England. His great-grand-
father, John Washington, em-
igrated to Virginia about 1657,
and became a prosperous
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, fiist
married Jane Butler, who bore
him four children, two of whom,
Lawrence and Augustine, reached
maturity. Of six children by his
second marriage, George was the
eldest, the others being Betty,
Samuel, John Augustine, Charles
and Mildred.
Augustine Washington, the father of George, died
in 1743, leaving a large landed property. To his
eldest son, Lawrence, he bequeathed an estate on
the Patomac, afterwards known as Mount Vernon,
and to George he left the parental residence. George
received only such education as the neighborhood
schools afforded, save for a short time after he left
school, when lie received private instruction in
mathematics. His spelling was rather defective

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

When George was 1 4 years old he had 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. In
this business he spent three years in a rough frontier
life, gaining experience which afterwards proved very
essential to him. In 175 1, though only 19 years of
age, he was appointed adjutant with the rank of
major in the Virginia militia, then being trained fot
active service against the French and Indians. Soon
after this he sailed to the West Indies with his brother
Lawrence, who went there to restore his health. They
soon returned, and in the summer of 1752 Lawrence
died, leaving a large fortune to an infant daughter
who did not long survive him. On her demise the
estate of Mount Vernon was given to George.

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

GEORGE WASHINGTON.

;rip was a perilous one, and several limes he came near
losing his life, yet he returned in safety and furnished
a full and useful report of his expedition. A regiment
of 300 men was raised in Virginia and put in com-
mand of Col. Joshua Fry, and Major Washington was
commissioned lieutenant-colonel. Active war was
then begun against the French and Indians, in which
Washington took a most important part. In the
memorable event of July 9, 1755. known as Brad-
dock's defeat, Washington was almost the only officer
of distinction who escaped from the calamities of the
day with life and honor. The other aids of Braddock
were disabled early in the action, and Washington
alone was left in that capacity on the field. In a letter
to his brother he says : "I had four bullets through
my coat, and two horses shot under me, yet I escaped
unhurt, though death was 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
expulsion of the French from the valley of the Ohio,
to resign his commission. Soon after he entered the
Legislature, where, although not a leader, he took an
active and important part. January 17, 1759, he
married Mrs. Martha (Dandridge) Custis, the wealthy
widow of John Parke Custis.

When the British Parliament had closed the port
if Boston, the cry went up throughout the provinces
that "The cause of Boston is the cause of us all."
It was then, at the suggestion of Virginia, that a Con-
gress of all the colonies was called to meet at Phila-
delphia,Sept. 5, r774, 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 10 pay them and
nothing more. It is not the object of this sketch to
trace the military acts of Washington, to whom the
fortunes and liberties of the people of this country
1 were so long confided. The war was conducted by
him under ever}' possible disadvantage, and while his
forces often met with reverses, yet he overcame every
obstacle, and after seven years of heroic devotion
and matchless skill he gained liberty for the greatest
nation of earth. On Dec. 23, 1783, 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, 1 789, Washington was unanimously
elected President. In his presidential career he was
subject to the peculiar trials incidental to a hew
government ; trials from lack of confidence on the part
of other governments ; trials from want of harmony
between the different sections of our own country;
trials from the impoverished condition of the country,
owing to the war and want of credit; trials from the
beginnings of party strife. He was no partisan. His
clear 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 many
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-
clepty 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 1 2, 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
haughtiness, and ever serious without b^iug dull.

OF THE

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SECOND PRESIDENT.

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OHN ADAMS, the second
L President and the first Vice-
jf President of the United States,
was born in Braintree ( now
Quincy),Mass., and about ten
i "-'- miles from Boston, Oct. ig,
1735. His great-grandfather, Henry
Adams, emigrated from England
about 1640, with a family of eight
1 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
graduated in 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
gain relief by devoting himself, in addition, to the
study of law. For this purpose he placed himself
under the tuition of the only lawyer in the town. He
had thought seriously of the clerical profession
but seems to have been turned from this by what he
termed "the frightful engines of ecclesiastical coun-
jils, cf diabolical malice, and CaKanistic 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 cf superior intelligence. Shortly after his
marriage, (17^5), the attempt of Parliamentary taxa-
tion turned him from law to politics. He took initial
steps toward holdir. a a town meeting, and the resolu-

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

Mr. Adams was chosen one of the first delegates
from Massachusetts to the first Continental Congress,
which met in 1774. Here he distinguished himself
by his capacity for business and for debate, and ad-
vocated the movement for independence against the
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 five
appointed June n, 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 thj
glow of excited feeling, he wrote a letter to his wife
which, as we read it now, seems to have been dictated
by the spirit of prophecy. " Yesterday," he says, " the
greatest question was decided that ever was debated
in America; and greater, perhaps, never was or wil
be decided among men. A resolution was passed
without one 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 pomp, shows.

JOHN ADAMS.

games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations
from one end of the continent to the other, from this
time forward for ever. You will think me transported
with enthusiasm, but I am not. I am well aware of
the toil, and blood and treasure, that it will cost to
maintain this declaration, and support and defend
these States; yet, through all the gloom, I can seethe
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 Bemjamin
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
chosen to go to Paris, and there hold himself in readi-
ness to negotiate a treaty of peace and of commerce
with Great Britian, as soon as the British Cabinet
might be found willing to listen to such pioposels. He
sailed for France in November, from there he went to
Holland, where he negotiated important loans and
formed important commercial treaties.

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

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

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

While Mr. Adams was Vice President the great

French Revolution shook the continent of 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 their struggle, for he had no confidence in their
power of self-government, and he utterly abhored the
class of atheist philosophers who he claimed caused it.
On the other hand Jefferson's sympathies were strongly
enlisted in behalf of the French people. Hence or-
iginated the alienation between these distinguished
men, and two powerful parties were thus soon organ-
ised, Adams at the head of the one whose sympathies
were with England and Jefferson led the other in
sympathy with France.

The world has seldom seen a spectacle of more
moral beauty and grandeur, than was presented by the
old age of Mr. Adams. The violence of party feeling
had died away, and he had begun to receive that just
appreciation which, to most men, is not accorded till
after death. No one could look upon his venerable
form, and think of what he had done and suffered,
and how he had given up all the prime and strength
of his life to the public good, without the deepest
emoti'cyufof "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
supporting. In 1824, his cup of happiness was filled
to the brim, by seeing his son elevated to the highest
station in the gift of the people.

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

The personal appearance and manners of Mr.
Adams were not particularly prepossessing. His face,
as his portrait manifests,was intellectual ard expres-
sive, but his figure was low and ungraceful, and h' c .
manners were frequently abrupt and uncourteous
He had neither the lofty dignity of Washington, not
the engaging elegance and gracefulness which marked
the manners and address of Tefferson.

UWVERSI

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THIRD PRESIDENT.

HOMAS JEFFERSON was
born April 2, 1743, at Shad-
pwell, Albermarle county, Va.
His parents were Peter and
Jane ( Randolph) Jefferson,
the former a native of Wales,
and the latter born in Lon-
don. To them were born six
daughters and two sons, of
whom Thomas was the elder.
When 14 years of age his
father died. He received a
most liberal education, hav-
been kept diligently at school
from the time he was five years of
age. In 1760 he entered William
end Mary College. Williamsburg was then the seat
of the Colonial Court, and it was the obodeof fashion
and splendor. Young Jefferson, who was then 17
years old, lived somewhat expensively, keeping fine
horses, and much caressed by gay society, yet he
-.vas 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 tints attained very
high intellectual culture, alike excellence in philoso-
phy and the languages. The most difficult Latin and
Greek authors he read with facility. A more finished
scholar has seldom gone 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 political life. In 1769 he was chosen
a member of the Virginia House of Burgesses In
1772 he married Mrs. Martha Skelton, a very beauti-
ful, wealthy and highly accomplished young widow
Upon Mr. Jefferson's large estate at Shadwell, time
was a majestic swell of land, ca'led Monticello, which
commanded a prospect of wonderful extent and
beauty. This spot Mr. Jefferson selected (or 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 Cclonial Congress
where, though a silent member, his abilities as a
writer and a reasoner soon become known, and he
was placed 141011 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, 177 G 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,
lioverign and independent. It is one of the most re-
markable papers ever written ; and did no other effort
of the mind of its author exist, that alone would be
sufficient to stamp his name with immortality.

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

Mr. Jefferson was elected to Congress in 1783.
Two 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. j, 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. Jefferson's second adminstra-
tion was disturbed by an event which threatened the
tranquility and peace of the Union; this was the con-
spiracy of Aaron Burr. Defeated in the late election
to the Vice Presidency, and led on by an 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
forty years, 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 new administration, 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 horses, —
fathers and mothers, boys and girls, babies and
nurses, — and remained three and even six months.
Life at Monticello, for years, resembled that at a
fashionable watering-place.

The fourth of July, 1826, being the fiftieth anniver-

sary of the Declaration of American Independence.
great preparations were made in every part of th.'
Union for its celebration, as the nation's jubilee, and
the citizens of Washington, to add to the solemnity
01 the occasion, invited Mr. Jefferson, as the framet.
and one of the few 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 nc
hope of his recovery. From this time he was perfectly
sensible that his last hour was at hand. On the nex*.
day, which was Monday, he asked of those around
him, the day of the month, and on being told it was
the third of July, he expressed the earnest wish tha
he might be permitted to breathe the air of the fiftieth
anniversary. His prayer was heard — that day, whose
dawn was hailed with such rapture through our land,
burst upon his eyes, and then they were closed for-
ever. And what a noble consummation of a noble
life! To die on that day, — the birthday of a nation,- -
the day which his own name and his own act had
rendered glorious; to die amidst the rejoicings and
festivities pf a whole nation, who looked up to him,
as tfycr author, under God, of their greatest blessings,
was all that- was^vanting 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 Sniggle of the Revolution, they had cheered and
animated their desponding countrymen; for half a
century they had labored together for tiie 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 silvery; his complexion was fair, his fore-
head broad, and his whole courtenance intelligent and
thoughtful. He possessed great fortitude of mind as
well as personal courage; and :.:s command of tem-
per was such that his oldest and most intimate friends
never recollected to have seen him in a passion.
His manners, though dignified, were simple and un-
affected, and his hospitality was so unbounded that
all found at his house a ready welcome. In conver-
sation he was fluent, eloquent and enthusiastic ; and
his language was remarkably pure and correct. He
was a finished classical scholar, and in his writings is
discernable the care with which he formed his style
upon the best mode's of antiquity.

LIBRARY
OF THE

J (ZA*s- ' ' ^^ iti-^^-l &~K

FOURTH FRF SI DENT.

OTes nipisoi).

AMES MADISON, "Father
of the Constitution/' and fourth
President of the United States,
was born March 16, 1757, and
died at his home in Virginia,
' s ®' June 28, 1836. The name of
James Madison is inseparably con-
nected with most of the important
events in that heroic period of our
country during which the founda-
tions of this great republic were
laid. He was the last of the founders
of the Constitution of the United
States to be called to his eternal
reward.

The Madison family were among
the early emigrants to the New World,
landing upon the shores of the Chesa-
peake 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, at the foot of
Blue Ridge. It was but 25 miles from the home of
Jefferson at Monticello. The closest personal 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
18 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 1, with a feeble
body, with a character of utmost purity, and with a
mind highly disciplined and richly stored with learning
which embellished and gave proficiency to hissubsf
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 the 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 ot
a statesman. Being naturally of a religious turn of
mind, 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 mind
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
(1777), he was a candidate for the General Assembly.
He refused to treat the whisky-lovir.g voters, and
consequently 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 Executive Council.

Both Patrick Henry and Thomas Jefferson were
Governors of Virginia while Mr. Madison remained
member of the Council ; and their appreciation 01 hin

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 Mr. 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
^vas 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 power 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 effect 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
queenly, and probably no lady has thus far occupied
so prominent a position in the very peculiar society
which 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, retiring
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 grea.t 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, 1812, President Madison gave
his approval to an act of Congress declaring war
against Great Britain. Notwithstanding the bitter
hostility of the Federal parly to the war, the country
in general approved; and Mr. Madison, on the 4U1
of March, ig 1 3, was re-elected by a large majority,
and entered upon his second term of office. This is
not the place to describe the various adventuras 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,
1813, in Chesapeake Bay, declaring nearly the whole
coast of the United States under blockade.

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

The straggling little city of Washington was thrown
into consternation. The cannon of the brief conflict
at Bladensburg echoed through the streets of the
metropolis. The whole population fled from the city.
The President, leaving Mrs. Madison in the White
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 being
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 on
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,

tlBRARY
Of THE

-7

&Z_,

FIFTH PRESIDENT.

» PEQES npftOE.

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

He joined the army when everything looked hope-
less and gloo ny. The number of deserters increased
from day to day. The invading armies came pouring
in ; and the tories not only favored the cause of the
mother country, but disheartened the new recruits,
who were sufficiently terrified at the prospect of con-
tending with an enemy whom they had been taught
to deem invincible. To such brave spirits as James
Monroe, who went right onward, undismayed through
difficulty and danger, the United States owe then-
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 White
Plains, and accompanied the dispirited army as it fled
before its foes through New Jersey. In four months
after the Declaration of Independence, the patriots
had been beaten in seven battles. At the battle of
Trenton he led the vanguard, and, in the actof 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 177S, in the actions of Brandy
wine, Germantown and Monmouth, he continued
aid-decamp ; 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 17S2, he was elected from King George county,
a member of the Legislature 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.

lie was in the succeeding year chosen a member of
ihe Congress of the United States.

Deeply as Mr. Monroe felt the imperfections of the old
Confederacy, he was opposed to the new Constitution,
■thinking, with many others of *he Republican party,
'.hat it gave too much power to the Central Government,
and not enough to the individual States. Still he re-
tained the esteem of his friends who were its warm
supporters, and who, notwithstanding his opposition
secured its adoption. In 1789, he became a member
of the United States Senate; which office he held for
four years. Every month the line of distinction be-
tween the two great parties which divided the nation,
the Federal and the Republican, was growing more
distinct. The two prominent ideas which now sep-
arated them were, that the Republican party was in
sympathy with France, and also in favor of such a
stiict construction of the Constitution as to give the
Central Government as little power, and the State
Governments as much power, as the Constitution would
warrant. The Federalists sympathized with England,
and were in favor of a liberal construction of the Con-
stitution, which would give as much power to the
Central Government as that document could possibly
authorize.

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

Washington was then President. England had es-
poused the cause of the Bourbons against the princi-
ples of the French Revolution. All Europe was drawn
into the conflict. We were feeble and far away.
Washington issued a proclamation of neutrality be- •
tween these contending powers. France had helped
us in the struggle for our liberties. All the despotisms
of Europe were now combined to prevent the French
from escaping from a tyranny a thousand-fold worse
than that which we had endured Col. Monroe, more
magnanimous than 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 appointing that very James Monroe, who was de-
nouncing the policy of the Government, as the minister
of that Government to the Republic of France. Mr.
Monroe was welcomed by the National Convention
in France with the most enthusiastic demonstrations.

Shortly after his return to this countrv, Mr. Mon-
roe was elected Governor of Virginia, and held the
office for three yeais. He was again sent to France 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. Tlreir united efforts were suc-
cessful. For the comparatively small sum of fifteen
millions of dollars, the entire territory of Orleans and
district of Louisiana were added to the United States.
This was probably the largest 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 0111
rights as neutrals, and to remonstrate against those
odious impressments of our seamen. but Eng-
land was unrelenting. He again returned to Eng-
land on the same mission, but could receive no
redress. He returned to his home and was again
chosen Governor of Virginia. This he soon resigned
to accept the position of Secretary of State under
Madison. While in this office war with England was
declared, the Secretary of War resigned, and during
these trying times, the duties of the War Department
were also.jjjlj 'tfbbn him. He was truly the armor-
bearer of President Madison, and the most efficient
business man in his'eabinet. Upon 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 with but little opposition, and
upon March 4, 181-7, 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 United States; the
Missouri Compromise, and the " Monroe doctrine.'

This famous doctrine, since known as the " Monroe
doctrine," was enunciated by him in 1823. At that
time the United States had recognized the independ-
ence of the South American states, and did not wish
to have European powers longer attempting to sub-
due portions of the American Continent. The doctrine
is as follows: "That we should consider any attempt
on the part of European powers to extend their sys-
tem to any portion of this hemisphere as dangerous
to our peace and safety," and "that we could not
view any interposition for the purpose of oppressing
or controlling American governments or provinces in
any other light than as a manifestation by European
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 United States.

At the end of his fecond term Mr. Monroe retired
to his home in Virginia, where he lived until 1830,
when he went to New York to live with his son-in-
law. In that city he died.on the 4th of July, 1831

LIBRARY
OF THE

3. 2, At

dyrr^i

SIXTH PRESIDENT.

Hi*'/'X i 4''^"-..^V'^iiC*J*~, ,i?r V^v.^*?*'^'^^*-'"^*^*''''^ "IB* "j'i^*r -vii- *ir* -v*cT*s* -»;<- *S*^,ic-. *t* -vlv*. V *vf«* *S* -ii«* l 5*

30511 Qmi)GY p^ITQS.

r -/*cHK?;; k — •^.^ , 8^A— ^^<cv^

OHM QUINCY ADAMS, the
i@L s ' xl ' 1 President of the United
g* Stales, was born in the rural
home of his honored father.
John Adams, in Quincy, Mass ,
on the 1 ith cf July, 1767. His
mother, a woman of exalted
worth, watched over his childhood
during the almost constant ab-
sence of his father. When but
eight years of age, he stood with
his mother on an eminence, listen-
ing to the booming of the great bat-
tle on Bunker's Hill, and gazing on
upon the smoke and flames billow-
ing up from the conflagration of
Charlestown.

When but eleven years old he
took a tearful adieu of his mother,
to sail with his fatner 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
country, in 1779, ere he was again sent abroad. Again
fohn Quincy accompanied his father. At Paris he
applied himself with great diligence, for six months,
to .-.'udy; then accom pained his father to Holland,
where he entered, first a school in Amsterdam, then
the University at Leyden. About a year from this
time, in T78 r, when the manly boy was but fourteen
yea's of age, he was selected by Mr. Dana, our min-
ister to the Russian court, as his private secretary.

Tn this school of incessant labor and of enobling
culture he spent 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 V.
Paris, traveling leisurely, and forming acquaintance
with the most distinguished men on the Continent
examining architectural remains, galleries of paintings
,and all renowned works of art. At Paris he agait.
became associated with the most illustrious men o(
all lands in the contemplations of the loftiest temporal
themes which can engross the human mind. Aft.;'
a short visit to England lie returned to Paris, ana
consecrated all his energies to study until May, 1785,
when he returned to America. To a brilliant young
man of eighteen, who had seen much of the world,
and who was familiar with the etiquette of courts, a
residence with his father in London, under such cir-
cumstances, must have been extremely attractive
but with judgment very rare in one of his age, he pre-
ferred to return to America to complete his education
in an American college. He wished then to study
law, that with an honorable profession, he might be
able to obtain an independent support.

Upon leaving Harvard College, at the age of t wenty
he studied law for three 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 reached
London in October, where he was immediately admit-
ted to the deliberations of Messrs. Jay and Pinckney
assisting them in negotiating a commercial treaty with
Gieat Britian. After thus spending a fortnight i.
London, he proceeded to the Hague.

In July, 1797, he left the Hague to go to Portugal as
minister plenipotentiary. On his way to Portugal
upon arriving in London, he met with despatches
directing him to the court of Beiiin, but requeslii p
him to remain in London until he should receive his
instructions. While waiting he was mairied to ar
American lady to whom he had been previous!) en-
gaged, — Miss Louisa Catherine Johnson, daughtc
of Mr. Joshua Johnson, American consul in london-
a lady endownd with that beauty and those accom-
plishment which eminently fitted her to move in tut
elevated sphere for which she w;^s v**V»ued

JOHN QUINCY ADAMS.

He reached Berlin with his wife in November, 1797 ;
where he remained until July, 1799, when, having ful-
filled all tHe purposes of his mission, he 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 points, and no one more resolved to present
a firm resistance.

In 1809, Madison succeeded Jefferson in the Pres-
idential chair, and he immediately nominated John
Qnincy 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. In all the universities of Europe, a
more accomplished scholar could scarcely be found.
All through life the Bible constituted an import. 11 t
part of his studies. It was his rule to read five
chapters every day.

On the 4th of March, 1S17, Mr. Monroe took the
Presidential chair, and immediately appointed Mr.
Adams 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
18th 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 Lhe 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-
seven. As there was no choice by the people, the
question 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
v k« past 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 lias 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
portentous 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 )iis dc^th, 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."- Upon taking his seat in
the House, he announced that he should hold him-
self bound to no party. Probably there never was a
member more devoted to his duties. He was usually
the first in his place in the morning, and the last to
leave his seat in the evening. Not a measure could
be brought forward and escape his scrutiny. The
battle which Mr. Adams fought, almost singly, agaiiis f
the 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 every night, before
lie slept, the prayer which his mother taught him in
his infant vears.

On the 2tst 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 1 y paraly-
sis, and was caught in the arms of those aiound 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, "lam content" These were the
last words of the grand " Old Man Eloquent,"

iJBRARY
OF THE
UNIV cr -

SEVENTH PRESIDENT.

..ii&e^So-S&SWWzrav. gj

*■■ AHJDJP5W |ACJvSON. |:;>>

NDREW JACKSON, the

seventh Presidei.t of the
' United States, was born in
Waxhaw settlement, N. C,
March 15, 1767, a few days
after his father's death. His
parents were poor 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 character, made visible, which was at-
tractive.

When only thirteen years old he joined the volun-
teers of Carolina against the British invasion. In
i7»r, he and his brother Robert were captured and
imprisoned for a time at Camden. A British officer
ordered him to brush his mud-spattered boots. " I am
a prisoner of war, not your servant," was the reply of
the dauntless boy.

The brute drew his sword, and aimed a desperate
Dlow at the head of the helpless young prisoner.
Andrew raised his hand, and thus received two fear-
ful gashes, — one on the hand and the other upon the
head. The officer then turned to his brother Robert
with the same demand. He also refused, and re-
ceived a blow from the keen-edged sabre, which quite
disabled him, and which probably soon after caused
hisdeath. They suffered much other ill-treatment, ami
were finally stricken with the small-pox. Their
mother was successful in obtaining their exchange,

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

Andrew supported himself in various ways, such as
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 178S, 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 i79t, 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 lie worked hard at his profes
sion, and frequently had one or more duels on hand,
one of which, when he killed Dickenson, was espec-
ially disgraceful.

In January, 1796, the Territory of Tennessee then
containing nearly eighty thousand inhabitants, the
people met in convention at Knoxville to frame a con-
stitution. Five were sent from each of the eleven
counties. Andrew Jackson was one of the delegates.
The new State was entitled to but one 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

ANDRE IV JACKSON.

sessions, — a distance of about eight hundred miles.

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

Mr. Jackson was elected to the United States
Senate in 1797, but soon resigned and returned home.
Soon after he was chosen Judge of the Supreme Court
of his State, which position he held Lr six years.

When the war of 1812 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
jffeied 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 brother of Benton's was engaged,
he received two severe pistol wounds. While he was
"lingering upon a bed of suffering news came that the
Indians, who had combined under Tecumseh from
Florida to the Lakes, to exterminate the white set-
tlers, were committing the most awful ravages. De-
cisive action became necessary. Gen. Tackson, 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 thebendsof theTallaooosa River, near the cen-
ter of Alabama, about fifty miles below Fort Strother.
With an army of two thousand men, Gen. Jackson
traversed the pathless wilderness in a march of eleven
days. He reached their fort, called Tohopeka or
Horse-shoe, on the 27th of March. 1814. The bend

of the river enclosed nearly one hundred acres of
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
the river and escaped. This ended the war. The
power of the Creeks was broken forever. This bold
plunge into the wilderness, with itsterriffic slaughter,
so appalled the savages, that the haggard remnants
of the bands came to the camp, begging for peace.

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

Late in August, with an army of two thousand
men, on a rushing march, Gen. Jackson came to
Mobile. A British fleet came from Pensacola, landed
a force 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 about
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 surpassed. From the shock of
her death he never recovered.

His administration was one of the most memorable
in the annals of our country; 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 /^Jet ^^/Ju.

EIGHTH PRESIDENT.

TYVTfDTlTin Wn TDTTTDT^n .7

iipifni} Y^I] BUREIJ.

:>: •

ARTIN VAN BUREN, the
eighth President of the
United States, was born 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 halt way up on one face.
The lot is unfenced, unbordered
or unbounded by shrub or flower.

.There is but little in the life of Martin Van Buren
of romantic interest. He fought no battles, engaged
in no wild adventures. Though his life was stormy in
political 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 name indicates, were of Dutch origin,
and were among the 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.

,fe was decidedly a precocious boy, developing un-
usual activity, vigor and strength of mind. At the
age of fourteen, he had finished his academic studies
in his native village, and commenced the study of
law. As he had not a collegiate education, seven
years of study in a law-office were required of him
before he could be admitted to the bar. Inspired with
J. lofty ambition, and conscious of his powers, he pur-
sued his studies with indefatigable industry. After
spending six yens in an office in his native village,

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

In 1803, 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 the
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, tlu
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 over
her loss. For twenty-five years, Mr. Van Buren was
an earnest, successful, assiduous lawyer. The record
of those years is barren in items of public interest.
In 1812, when thirty years of age, he was chosen to
the State Senate, and gave his strenuous support to
Mr. Madison's adminstration. In 1S15, 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
p. ominent leaders of the Democratic party, he had

MARTIN VAN BVREN.

... moral courage vow that true democracy did

not require th.it ersal suffrage " which admits

the vile, the degr; . the ignorant, to the right of
governing the St? In true consistency with his

democratic prinoi. he contended that, while the

path leading to th . ilege of voting should be open

to jvery man withi listinction, no one should be
invested with that ;d prerogative, unless he were

In some degree qi ' Bed for it by intelligence, virtue
and some propert rests in the welfare of the

State.

In 182 i he was ted a member of the United
States Senate; an ;he same year, he took a seat

in the convention evise the constitution of his

native State. His se in this convention secured

the approval of m all parties. No one could

doubt the singlene his endeavors to promote the

interests of all cla: n the community. In the

Senate of the Unit' ates, he rose at once to a

conspicuous positioi an active and useful legislator.

In 1827, John Q 'i • Adams beirg then in the
Presidential chair, h r. Van Buren was re-elected to
me Senate. He hi En from the beginning a de-

;ermined opposer o Administration, adopting the

'State Rights" view n opposition to what was
deemed the Federal . livities of Mr. Adams.

Soon after this, in 1 I, he was chosen Governorof
the State of New Yi nd accordingly resigned his

seat in the Senate. lably no one in the United

States contributed 9 ich towards ejecting John Q.
Adams from the PreV tial chair, and placing in it
Andrew Jackson, as ' lartin Van Buren. Whether
entitled to the reput; or not, he certainly was re-

garded throughout tl United States as one of the
most skillful, sagacic id cunning of politicians.

It was supposed that ne knew so well as he how

:o touch the secret s[ _- of action; how to pull all
the wires to put his 11 'nery in motion; and how to
organize a political ari vhich would, secretly and
Etep'.thily accomplish . most gigantic results. By
these powers it is saic he outwitted Mr. Adams,

Mr. Clay, Mr. Websti d secured results which

lew thought then coul 2 accomplished.

When Andrew Jac was elected President he

appointed Mr. Van B Secretary of State. This

position he resigned ii 1, and was immediately

appointed Minister tc gland, where he went the
same autumn. The 5 •, however, when it met,

refused to ratify the illation, and he leturned

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
fiowns for none, he took his place at the head of thai
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, 1S36, 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 by the "Free Soil" Democrats, in 1848,
Mr. Van Buren lived quietly upon his estate until
his death.

He had ever been a prudent man, of frugal habits,
and living within his income, had now fortunately a
competence for his declining years. His unblemished
character, his commanding abilities, his unquestioned
patriotism, and the distinguished positions which he
had occupied in the government of our country, se-
cured to him not only the homage of his party, but
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 death, on
the 24th of July, 1862, at the age of eighty years, he
resided at Lindenwald, a gentleman of leisure, cf
culture and of wealth; enjoying in a healthy old
age, probably far more happiness than he had before
experienced amid the stormy scenes of his active life

■

1IBRARY
OF THE
UNIV

fo.fcft&WL^>

T-\^^

NINTH PRESIDENT.

ILLIAM HENRY HARRI-
SON, the ninth President of
the United States, was bom
at Berkeley, Va., Feb. 9, 1773.
His father, Benjamin Harri-
son, was in comparatively op-
ulent circumstances, and was
one of the most distinguished
men of his day. He was an
intimate friend of George
Washington, w as early elected
a member of the Continental
Congress, and was conspicuous
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
speaker.

Mr Harrison was subsequently
chosen Governor of Virginia, and
was twice re-elected. His son,
William Henry, of course enjoyed
in childhood all the advantages which wealth and
intellectual and cultivated society could give. Hav-
ing received a thorough common-school education, he
entered Hampden Sidney College, whe r re he graduated
with honor soon r-fter the death of his father. Ik-
then repaired to Philadelphia to study medicine under
the instructions of Dr. Rush and the guardianship of
iobert Morris, both of whom were, with his father,
ligners of the Declaration of Independence.

Jpon the outbreak of the Indian troubles, and not-
withstanding the »emons».rances of his friends, he
abandoned his medical studies and entered the army,
.laving obtained a commission of Ensign from Presi-

dent Washington. He was then but 19 years old.
From that time he passed gradually upward in rank
until he became aid to General Wayne, after whose
death he resigned his commission. He was then ap-
pointed Secretary of the North-western Territory. This
Territory <vas 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
Ham Henry Harrison, then 27 years of age, was ap-
pointed by John Adams, Governor of the Indiana
Territory, and immediately after, also Governor of
Upper Louisiana. He was thus ruler over almost as
extensive a realm as any sovereign upon the globe. He
was Superintendent of Indian Affairs, and was in-
vested with powers nearly dictatorial over the now
rapidly increasing white population. The ability and
fidelity with which he discharged these responsible
duties may be inferred from the fact that he was four
times appointed to this office — first by John Adams,
twice by Thomas Jefferson and afterwards by Presi-
dent Madison.

When he began his adminstration there were but
three white settlements in that almost boundless region,
now crowded with cities and resounding with all the
tumult of wealth and traffic. 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. Aboi"

WILLIAM HENRY HARRISON.

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

But the Prophet was not merely 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, 1812, his army began its inarch. When
near the Prophet's town three Indians of rank made
their appearance and inquired why Gov. Harri-on 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 spot 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 accoutrements on, his
loaded musket by his side, and his bayonet fixed. The
wakeful Governor, between three and four o'clock in
the morning, had risen, and was sitting in conversa-
tion with his aids by the embers of a waning fire. It
was a chill, cloudy morning with a drizzling rain. In
the darkness, the Indians had crept as near as possi-
ble, and j'ist then, with a savage yell, rushed, with all
th'e desperation which superstition and passion 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 accompanied by a shower of bullets.

The camp-fires were instantly extinguished, as the
light aided the Indians in their aim. With hide-
»us 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 bayonet, 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 plunged 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; but
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
laslied 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 16, 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 1 S 1 g , 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 forthe Vice Presidency.
The contest was very animated. Gen Jackson gave
all his influence to prevent Harrison's election ; but
his triumph was signal.

The cabinet which he formed, with Daniel Webster
at its head as Secretary of State, was one of the most
brilliant with 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
joyous prospects, Gen. Harrison was seized by a
pleurisy-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.

IJBRARY
Of THE

^isn,

TENTH PRESIDE N'T.

OHN TYLER, the tenth
Presidentof the United States.
He was born in Charles-city
Co., Va., March 29, 1790. He
was the favored child of af-
fluence and high social po-
sition. At the early age of
twelve, John entered William
and Mary College and grad-
uated with much honor when
but seventeen years old. After
graduating, he devoted him-
self with great assiduity to the
study of law, partly with his
father and pirtly with Edmund
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
1. )t retained. When but twenty-one years of age, he
was almost unanimously e'ected to a seat in the State
Legislature. He connected himself with the Demo-
cratic party, and warmly advocated the measures of
Jefferson and Madison. For five successive years he
w.;s 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 r iove r n-

merit, 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 hi 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; he spoke against and
voted against the bank as unconstitutional ; he stren-
uously opposed all restrictions upon slavery, resist-
ing all projects of internal improvements by the Gen-
eral Government, and avowed his sympathy with Mr.
Calhoun's view of nullification ; he declared that Gen.
Jackson, by his opposition to the nullifiers, had
abandoned the piinciples 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 cplit in the Democralit

JOHN TYLER.

xUrty. His friends still regarded him as a true Jef-
fersonian, gave him a dinner, and showered compli-
ments Upon him. He had now attained the age of
forty-six. His career had been very brilliant. In con-
sequence of his devotion to public business, his pri-
vate affairs had fallen into some disorder; and it was
not without satisfaction that he resumed the practice
of law, and devoted himself to the culture of his plan-
tation. Soon after this he removed to Williamsburg,
for the better education of his children ; and he again
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
7839. The majority of votes were given to Gen. Har-
rison, a genuine Whig, much to the disappointment ot
the South, who wished for Henry Clay. To concili-
ate the Southern Whigs and to secure their vote, the
convention then nominated John Tyler for Vice Pres-
ident. It was well known that he was not in sympa-
thy with the Whig party in the Noith: but the Vice
President has but very little power in the Govern-
ment, his main and almost only duty being to pre-
side over the meetings of the Senate. Thus it hap-
"pened that a Whig President, and, in reality, a
Democratic Vice President were chosen.

In 1 84 1, Mr. Tyler was inaugurated Vice Presi-
dent of the United States. In one short month from
that time, President Harrison died, and Mr. Tyler
thus fcund 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 long life he had been
opposed to the main principles of the party which had
brought him into power. He had ever been a con-
sistent, honest man, with an unblemished record.
Gen. Harrison had selected a Whig cabinet. Should
he retain them, and thus surround himself with coun-
sellors whose views were antagonistic to his own? or,
on the other hand, should he turn against the party
which had elected him and select a cabinet in har-
mony with himself, and which would oppose all those
views which the Whigs deemed essential to the pub-
lic welfare? This was his fearful dilemma. He in-
vited the cabinet which President 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
incorporation of a fiscal bank of the United States.
The President, after ten days' delay, returned it with
his veto. He suggested, however, that he would

approve of a bid drawn up upon such a plan as he
proposed. Such a bill was accordingly prepared, and
privately submitted to him. He gave it his approval.
It .vas passed without alteration, and he sent it back
with his veto. Here commenced the open rupture.
Ic 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. All the members of his
cabinet, excepting Mr. Webster, resigned. The Whigs
of Congress, both the Senate and the House, held a
meeting and issued an address to the people of the
United States, proclaiming that all political alliance
between the Whigs and President Tyler were at
an end.

Still the President attempted to conciliate. He
appointed a new cabinet of distinguished Whigs and
Conservatives, carefully leaving out all strong party
men.'.'. 4 Mr\-\Vebster soon found it necessary to resign,
forced out 'by the.^ressure of his Whig friends. 'Thus
the four years of Mr. Tyler's unfortunate administra-
tion passed sadly away. No one was satisfied. The
land was filled with murmurs and vituperation. Whigs
and Democrats alike assailed him. More and more,
however, he brought himself into sympathy with his
old friends, the Democrats, until atthe close of his term,
he gave his whole influence to the support of Mr.
Polk, the Democratic candidate for his successor.

On the 4th of March, 1845, he retired from the
harassments of office, to the regret of neither party, and
probably to his own unspeakable lelief. His first wife,
Miss Letitia Christian, died in Washington, in 1842;
and in June, 1844, President Tyler was again married,
at New York, to Miss Julia Gardiner, a young lady of
many personal and intellectual accomplishments.

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

When the great Rebellion rose, which the State-
rights and nullifying doctrines of Mr. John C. 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.

1JBRARY

OF THE

BUIVERsitv i m^,«.

«x

OC-

ELE I 'EN Til PRESIDED T.

,'?•

AMES K. POLK, the eleventh
M ^President of the United States,
was born in Mecklenburg Co.,
N. C, Nov. 2, 1795. His par-
ents were Samuel and Jane
(Knox) Polk, the former a son
of Col. Thomas Polk, who located
at the above place, as one of the
first pioneers, in 1735.

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

Very early in life, James developed a taste for
reading and expressed the strongest desire to obtain
a liberal education. His mother's training had made
bim 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 110 taste for these duties, and his daily tasks
were irksome in the extreme. He remained in this
uncongenial occupation but a few weeks, when at his
earnest solicitation his father removed him, and made
arrangements for him to prosecute his studies. Soon
after he sent him to Murfreesboro Academy. With
ardor which could scarcely be surpassed, he pressed
forward in his studies, and in less than two and a half
years, in the autumn of 1815, entered the sophomore"
class in the University of North Carolina, at Chapel
Hill. Here he was one of the most exemplary of
scholars, punctual in every exercise, never allowing
himself to be absent from a recitation or a religious
service.

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

Mr. Polk's father was a Jeffersonian Republican
and James K. Polk ever 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 :i speaker was such that
he was popularly called the Napoleon of the stum]).
He was a man of unblemished morals, genial ard

/AMES K. POLK.

courterus in his bearing, and with that sympathetic
nature in the jo> s and griefs of others which ever gave
him troops of friends. In 1823, Mr. Polk was elected
to the Legislature of Tennessee. Here he gave his
strong 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., Term. His bride was
altogether worthy of him, — a lady of beauty and cul-
ture. In the fall of 1825, Mr. Polk was chosen a
member of Congress. The satisfaction which he gave
to his constituents may be inferred from the fact, that
for fourteen successive years, until 1839, he was con-
tinued in that office. He then voluntarily withdrew,
only that he might accept the Gubernatorial chair
of Tennessee. In Congress he was a laborious
member, a frequent and a 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 very general satisfac-
tion, and a unanimous vote of thanks to him was
passed by the House as he withdrew on the 4th of
March, 1839.

In accordance with Southern usage, Mr. Polk, as a
candidate for Governor, canvassed the State. He was
elected by a large majority, and on the 1 4th of Octo-
ber, 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 4thof March, 1845, Mr. Polk was inaugur-
ated President of the United States. The verdict of
the country in favor of the annexation of Texas, exerted
its influence upon Congress ; and the last act of the
administration of President Tyler was to affix his sig-
nature to a joint resolution of Congress, passed on the
3d of March, approving of the annexation of Texas to
the American Union. As Mexico still claimed Texas
as one of her provinces, the Mexican minister,
Almonte, immediately demanded his passports and
left the country, declaring the act of the annexation
to be an act hostile to Mexico.

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

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

The anticipated collision soon took place, and 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.
.\Ye.na>v consented to peace upon the condition that
tMexiif© 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 hm>dred thousand square miles. This
was an extent of territory equal to nine States of the
size of New York Thus slavery was securing eighteen
majestic States to be added to the Union. There were
some Americans who thought it all right : there were
others who thought it all wrong. In the prosecution
of this war, we expended 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, r849, 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 the dearest nature, it seemed as though long years
of tranquility and happiness were before him. But the
cholera — that fearful scourge — was then sweeping up
the Valley of the Mississippi. This he contracted,
and died on the 1 5 tli of June, 1849,111 the fiftv-fourth
year of his age, greatly mourned by his countrymen.

IJBRARY

OF THE

UNIVP n nr-" f ■ - '>">:r;

TWELFTH PRESIDENT.

(•3

i!^SSSSSSS^ S^-\-\\-\ ^ ^ ^^-^t.'^^^^^^ 1

l^ciMAj^y fJMf*^«.

ACHARY TAYLOR, twelfth
President of the United States,
was born on the 24th of Nov.,
1784, in Orange Co., Va. His
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
could enjoy but few social and educational advan-
tages. When six years of age he attended a common
school, and was then regarded as a bright, active boy,
rather remarkable for bluntness and decision of char-
acter He was strong, feailess and self-reliant, and
manifested a strong desire to enter the army to fight
the Indians who were ravaging the frontiers. There
is little to be recorded of the uneventful years of his
childhood on his father's large but lonely plantation.
In r8o8, his father succeeded in obtaining for him
the commission of lieutenant in the United States
army ; and he joined the troops which were stationed
at New Orleans under Gen. Wilkinson. Soon after
this he married Miss Margaret Smith, a young lady
from one of the first families of Maryland.

Immediately after the declaration of war with Eng-
land, in 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,
;ed by Tecumseh. Its garrison consisted of a broken

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

Early in the autumn of [812, the Indians, stealthily,
and in large numbers, moved upon the fort. Their
approach was first indicated by the murder of two
soldiers just outside of the stockade. Capt. Taylor
made every possible preparation to meet the antici-
pated assault. On the 4th of September, a band of
forty painted and plumed savages came to the fort,
waving a white flag, and informed Capt. Taylor that
in the morning their chief would come to have a talk
with him. It was evident that their object was merely
to ascertain the state of things at the fort, and Capt.
Taylor, well versed in the wiles of the savages, kept
them at a distance.

The sun went down; the savages disappeared, the
garrison slept upon their arms. One hour before
midnight the war 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 ar.d 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 six o'clock in the morning, this awful conflict
continued. The savages then, baffled at every point,
and gnashing their teeth with rage, retired. Capt.
Taylor, for this gallant defence, was promoted to the
rank of major by brevet.

Until the close of the war, 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-

6 4

ZACHARY TAYLOR

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

For twenty-four years Col. Taylor was engaged in
the defence of the frontiers, in scenes so remote, and in
employments so obscure, that his name was unknown
beyond the limits of his own immediate acquaintance.
In the year 1836, 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,
iiac 1 promised they should do. The services rendered
heie 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. Taylor
obtained, at his own request, a change of command,
£.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 family
to a plantation which he purchased, near Baton Rogue.
Here he remained for five years, buried, as it were,
from the world, but faithfully discharging every duty
imposed 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
by the United States. Soon the war with Mexico
was brought o;i, and at Palo Alto and Resaca de la
Palma, Gen. Taylor won brilliant victories over the
Mexicans. The rank of major-general by brevet
was then conferred upon Gen. Taylor, and his name
was received with enthusiasm almost everywhere in
the Nation. Then came the battles of Monterey and
Buena Vista in which he won signal victories over
forces much larger than he commanded

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

The tidings of the brilliant victory of Buena Visia
spread the wildest enthusiasm over the country. The
name of Gen. Taylor was on every one's lips. The
Whig party decided to take advantage of this wonder-
ful popularity in bringing forward the unpolished, 1111-
" r ed, 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 qualified for such an
office. So little interest had he taken in politics that,
for forty years, he had not cast a vote. It was not
without chagrin that several distinguished statesmen
who had been long years in the public service found
f l.;ur claims set aside in behalf of one whose name

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

Gen. Taylor was not an eloquent speaker nor a fine
writer His friends took possession of him, and pre-
pared such few communications as it was needful
should be presented to the public. The popularity of
the successful warrior swept the land. He was tri-
umphantly elected over two opposing candidates, —
Gen. Cass and Ex-President Martin Van Buren.
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 Mexicans or
1 'Inafans

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

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

"Any allusion to literature beyond good old Dil-
worth's spelling-book, on the part of one wearing a
sword, was evidence, with the same judge, of utter
unfitness for heavy marchings and combats. In shor*
few men have ever had a more comfona"-^ ,, »*>ni«.
snving contempt for barnirg of every kind.'

UBRARY
Of THE

u^oC'

J ^C^j^r^txrix)

THIRTEENTH PRESIDENT.

I ^MILLftHH FILLMIIRE^

^ » ag » a i g » 3r » 3S » ae » 3 i^»g^» ^: <» ^!g » ^: » a^ * ^K » 3* : * : ^ ^ : ^ *

g > .jE$ ?]g?

4-*-

ILLARD FILLMORE, thir-
ty teenth President of the United
~ States, was born at Summer
Hill, Cayuga Co., N. Y ., on
i££2, the 7 tli of January, 1800. His
™ father was a farmer, and ow-
ing to misfortune, in humble cir-
cumstances. Of his mother, the
daughter of Dr. Abiathor 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-
quisite sensibilities. She died in
1 83 1 ; having lived to see her son a
young man of distinguished prom-
ise, though she was not permitted to witness the high
dignity which he finally attained.

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

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

The young clothier had now attained the age of
nineteen years, and was of fine personal appearance
and cf gentlemanly demeanor. It so happened tha*
there was a gentleman in the neighborhood of ample
pecuniary means and of benevolence, — Judge Walter
Wood,— who was struck with the prepossessing ap-
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,
1 1 friends to help him and that his previous educa-
tion had been very imperfect. But Judge Wood hail
so much confidence in him that he kindly offered to
take him into his own office, and to loan him such
money as he needed. Most gratefully the generous
offer was accepted.

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

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

His elevation of character, his untiring industry,
his legal acquirements, and his skill as an advocate,
gradually attracted attention ; and he was invited to
enter into partnership under highly advantageous
circumstances, with an elder member of the bar in
Buffalo. Just before removing to Buffalo, in 1829,
he took his seat in the House of Assembly, of the
State of New York, as a representative from Erie
County. Though he had never taken a very active
part in politics, his vote and his sympathies were with
the Whig party. The State was then Democratic,
and he found himself in a helpless minority in the
Legislature , still the testimony comes from all parties,
that his courtesy, ability and integrity, won, to a very
unusual degrt e the respect of his associates.

In the autumn of 1832, he was elected to a seat in
the United States Congress He entered that troubled
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 him 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 State.

Mr. Fillmore had attained the age of forty-seven
years. His labors at the bar, in the Legislature, in
Congress and as .Comptroller, had given him very con-
siderable fame. The Whigs were casting about to
find suitable candidates for President and Vice-Presi-
dent at the approaching election. Far away, on the
waters of the Rio Grande, there was a rough old
soldier, who had fought one or two successful battles
with the Mexicans, which had caused his name to be
proclaimed in liumpet-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, the
namesof Zachary Taylor and Millard Fillmore became
the rallying-cry of the Whigs, as their candidates for
President and Vice-Peesident. The Whig ticket was
signally triumphant. On the 4th of March, 1849,
Geffi Tailor was inaugurated President, and Millard
Fillmore'ViccrPresident, of the United States.

On the 9th 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 Daniel 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 inadecpiacyof 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 should
soon pass into the hands of the free States. The
famous compromise measures were adopted under Mr.
Fillmcre's adminstration, and the Japan Expedition
was sent out. On the 4th of March, 1853, Mr. Fill-
more, 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.

1JBBARY
OF T»'£
UN""

FOURTEENTH PRESIDENT.

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RANKLIN PIERCE, the
fourteenth President of the
f United States, was born in
Hillsborough, N. H., Nov.
23, 1804. His father was a
Revolutionary soldier, who,
with his own strong arm,
hewed out a home in the
wilderness. He was a man
of inflexible integrity; of
strong, though uncultivated
mind, and an uncompromis-
ing Democrat. The mother of
Franklin Pierce was all that a son
could desire, — an intelligent, pru-
dent, affectionate, 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 ]»pular young men in the college.
The purity cf his moral character, the unvarying
courtesy of his demeanor, his rank as a scholar, and

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

Upon graduating, 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. The
eminent social qualities of the young lawyer, his
father's prominence as a public man, and the brilliant
political career into which Judge Woodbury was en-
tering, all tended to entice Mr. Pierce into the faci-
nating yet perilous path of political life. With all
the ardor of his nature he espoused the cause of Gen.
Jackson for the Presidency. He commenced the
practice of law in Hillsborough, and was soon elected
to represent the town in the State Legislature. Here
he served for four yeais. The last two years he was
chosen speaker of the house by a very large vote.

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

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

t-RANKLIN 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, upon his accession to office, appointed
Mr. Pierce attorney-general of the United States; but
the offer was declined, in consequence of numerous
professional engagements at home, and the precariuos
state of Mrs. Pierce's health. He also, about the
same time declined the nomination for governor by the
Democratic party. The war with Mexico called Mr.
Pierce in the army. Receiving the appointment of
brigadier-general, he embarked, with a portion of his
troops, at Newport, R. I., on the 27th of May, 1847.
He took an important part in this war, proving him-
self a brave and true soldier.

When Gen. Pierce reached his home in his native
State, he was received enthusiastically by the advo-
cates of the Mexican war, and coldly by his oppo-
nents. He resumed the practice of his profession,
very frequently taking an active part in political ques-
tions, giving his cordial support to the pro-slavery
wing of the Democratic party. The compromise
measures met cordially with his approval; and he
strenuously advocated the enforcement of the infa-
mous fugitive-slave law, which so shocked the religious
sensibilities of 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 r2th of June, 1852, the Democratic conven-
tion met in Baltimore to nominate a candidate for the
Presidency. For four days they continued in session,
.-.nd in thirty-five ballotings no one had obtained a
two-thirds vote. Not a vote thus far had been throw n
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. AVinfield 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 Pietce
was therefore inaugurated President of the United
States on the 4th of March, 1853.

His administration proved one of the most stormy our
country had ever experienced. The controversy 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 exist " half slave and half
free." President Pierce, during the whole of his ad-
ministration, did every thing he could to conciliate
the South ; but it was all in vain. The conflict every
year grew more violent, and threats of the dissolution
of the Union were borne to the North on every South-
ern breeze.

Such was the condition of affairs when President
Pierce approached the close of his four-years' term
of office. The North had become thoroughly 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
ritl-rce were forgotten in deep reprehension of his ad-
ministrative-.icts.; 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
kiiied 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.

LIBRARY
OF T»E

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FIFTEENTH PRESIDENT

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AMES BUCHANAN, the fif-
.teenth President of the United
States, was born in a small
frontier town, at the foot of the
eastern ridge of the Allegha-
nies, in Franklin Co., Penn., on
the 23d of April, 1791. The place
where the humble cabin of his
father stood was called Stony
tSlM Batter. It was a wild and ro-
mantic spot in a gorge of the moun-
tains, with towering summits rising
grandly all around. His father
was a native of the north of Ireland ;
a poor man, who had emigrated in
1783, with little property save his
own strong arms. Five years afterwards he married
Elizabeth Spear, the daughter of a respectable farmer,
and, with his young bride, 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
course of study 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 w '

facility.

In the year 1809, he graduated with the highest
honors of his clas^. He was then eighteen years of
age; tall and graceful, vigorous in health, fond of
athletic sport, an unerring shot, and enlivened with
an exuberant flow of animal spirits. He immediately
commenced the study of law in the city of Lancaster,
and was admitted to the bar in 1812, when he was
but twenty-one years of age. Very rapidly he rose
in his profession, and at once took undisputed stand
with the ablest lawyers of the State. When but
twenty-six years of age, unaided by counsel, he suc-
cessfully defended before the State Senate 01 e of tiie
judges of the State, who was tried upon articles of
impeachment. At the age of thirty it was generally
admitted that he stood at the head of the bar; and
there was no lawyer in the State who had a more lu-
crative practice.

In 1S20, he reluctantly consented to run as a
candidate fur 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 "1 83 1 , he retired
altogether from the toils of his profession, having ac-
quired an ample fortune.

Gen. Jackson, upon his elevation to the Presidency,
appointed Mr. Buchanan minister to Russia. The
duties of his mission he performed with ability, which
gave satisfaction to all parties. Upon his return, in
1S33, he was elected to a seat in the United States
Senate. He there met, as his associates, Webster.
Clay, Wright and Calhoun. He advocated the meas-
ures proposed by President J.u kson, of in ilrmg repri-

7 6

JAMES BUCHANAN.

sals against France, to enforce the payment of our
claims against that country ; and defended the coarse
of the President in his unprecedented and wholesale
removal from office of those who were not the sup-
porters of his administration. Upon this question he
was brought into direct collision with Henry Clay.
He also, with voice and vote, advocated expunging
from 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 the subject of slavery, he advo-
cated that they should be respectfully received; and
that the reply should be returned, that Congress had
no power to legislate upon the subject. ' Congress,"
said he, " might as well undertake to interfere with
slavery under a foreign government as in any of the
States where it now exists."

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

Mr. Buchanan identified himself thoroughly with
the party devoted to the perpetuation and extension
of slavery, and brought all the energies of his mind
to bear against the Wilmot Proviso. He gave his
cordial approval to the compromise measures of 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. Buchanan for the Presidency. The
political conflict was one of the most severe in which
our country has ever engaged. All the friends of
slavery were on one side; all the advocates of its re-
striction and final abolition, on the other. Mr. Fre-
mont, the candidate of the enemies of slavery, re-
ceived 114 electoral votes. Mr. Buchanan received
174, and was elected. The popular vote stood
1,340,618, for Fremont, 1,224,750 for Buchanan. On
March 4th. 1857, Mr. Buchanan was inaugurated.

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

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

The opponents of Mr. Buchanan's administration
nominated Abraham Lincoln as their standard bearer
in the next Presidential canvass. The pro-slavery
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
Washington, and the lion's share of the territory of
the United States.

Mr. Buchanan's sympathy with the pro-slavery
parly was such, that he had been willing to offerthem
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 mstitajhap.

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

South Carolina seceded in December, i860; nearly
three months before the inauguration of President
Lincoln. Mr. Buchanan looked on in listless despair.
The rebel flag was raised in Charleston: Fort Sumpter
was besieged; our forts, navy-yards and arsenals
were seized; our depots of military 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
pleasure. And still more deplorable it is for his fame,
that in that dreadful conflict which rolled its billows
of flame and blood over our whole land, no word came
from his lips to indicate his wish that our country's
banner should triumph over the flag of the rebellion
Hp died at his Wheatland retreat, June 1, 186S.

MBfiABY
OF THE
UWVr~

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Gy^-^cT^

SIXTEENTH PRES/DEiVT.

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i ABRAHAM l >

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BRAHAM LINCOLN, the
sixteenth President of the
H^United States, was horn in
Hardin Co., Ky., Feb. 12,
1809. About the year 1780, a
|H> man by the name of Abraham
^ Lincoln left Virginia with his
family and moved into the then
wildsof 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. This Thomas was
the father of Abraham Lincoln, the
President of the United States
whose name must henceforth fo r ever 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 poor. 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-
less, wandering boy, seeking work. He hired him-
self out, and thus spent the whole of his youth as a
'/.borer 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 Abraham 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 in a hovel.
"All that I am, or hope to be," exclaims the grate-
ful son " I owe to my angel-mother.

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

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

Abraham soon became 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, the lot of this lowly family
was the usual lot of humanity. There were joys and
griefs, weddings and funerals. Abraham's sistei
Sarah, to whom he was tenderly attached, was mar-
ried when a child of but fourteen years of age, and
soon died. The family was gradually scattered. Mr.
Thomas Lincoln sold out his 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 this
until he saw the family comfortably settled, and theii
small lot of enclosed prairie planted with corn, when
he announced to his father 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 bril-
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 temperate; refusing to allow a drop of intoxi-
cating liquor to pass his lips. And he had read it\
God's word, "Thou shall not take the name of the
Lord thy God in vain;" and a profane expression ha
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 laborei
among the farmers. Then he went to Springfield,
where he was employed in building a large fiat-boat.
In this he took a herd of swine, floated them down
the Sangamon to the Illinois, and thence by the Mis-
sissippi to New Orleans. Whatever Abraham Lin-
coln undertook, he performed so faithfully as to give
great satisfaction to his employers. In this adven

ABRAHAM LINCOLN.

ture his employers were so well pleased, that upon
his return tney 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
Jackson the appointment of Postmaster of New Salem,
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 he 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
Mr. 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 16th 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 the most
orominent. 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 fix upon him the eyes of
the whole civilized world, and which would give him
a place in the affections of his countrymen, second
enly, if second, to that of Washington.

Election day came and Mr. Lincoln received 180
electoral votes out of 203 cast) and was, therefore,
constitutionally elected President of the United States.
The tirade of abuse that vas poured upon this good

and merciful man, especially by the slaveholders, was
greater than upon any other man ever elected to this
high position. In February, 1861, Mr. Lincoln started
for Washington, stopping in all the large cities on his
way making speeches. The whole journey was frought
with much danger. Many of the Southern States had
already seceded, and several attempts at assassination
were afterwards brought to light. A gang in Balti-
more had arranged, upon his arrival to" get up a row,"
and in the confusion to make sure of his death with
revolvers and hand-grenades. A detective unravelled
the plot. A secret and special train was provided to
take him from Harrisburg, through Baltimore, at an
unexpected 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 theirCon-
federate gang in Baltimore, as soon as the train had
started the telegraph-wires were cut. Mr. Lincoln
reached Washington in safety and was inaugurated,
although great anxiety was felt by all loyal people.
In the selection of his cabinet Mr. Lincoln gave
to Mr Seward the Department of State, and to other
prominent opponents before the convention he gave
important positions.

During no other administration have the duties
devolving upon the President been so manifold, and
the responsibilities so great, as those which fell to
the lot of President Lincoln. 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 f h personal and national. Contrary to his
own estimate of himself, Mr. Lincoln was one of the
most courageous of men. He went directly into the
rebel capital just as the retreating foe was leaving,
with no guard but a few sailors. From the time he
had left Springfield, in rS6i, however, plans had been
made f jr 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 Le present. Gen.
Grant, however, left the city. President Lincoln, feel-
ing, witir his characteristic kindliness of heart, thaf
it would be a disappointment if he should fail them,
very reluctantly consented to go. While listening to
the play an actor by the name of John Wilkes Booth
entered the box where the President and family were
seated, and fired a bullet into his brains. He died the
next morning at seven o'clock.

Never before, in the history of 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 fitly become a
model. His name as the savior of his country will
live with that of Washington's, its father; hiscr-;.ntry-
rnen being iniable to decide which i s t>>e greater.

LIBRARY

OF IMF

^I^^l^^l^

SE / ■/■;. \ ■ 1 -LEN 1 11 PRESIDED f.

'«i

NDREVV JOHNSON, seven -
teenth President of the United
\m f States. The early life of
Andrew Johnson contains but
the record of poverty, destitu-
^y tion and friendlessness. He
7 was born December 29, 180S,
in Raleigh, N. C. His parents,
belonging to the class of the
" poor whites " of the South, T>'ere
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
lost his 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,
iearned 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 oi.
ward laboriously, spending usually ten or twelve hours
at work in the shop, and then robbing himself of rest
and recreation 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 Van
Buren's claims to the Presidency, in opposition to thos^
of Gen. Harrison. In this campaign he acquired much
readiness as a speaker, and extended and increased
his reputation.

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

ANDRE IF JOHNSON.

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

Years before, in 1S45, he had warmly advocated
the annexation of Texas, stating however, as his
reason, that he thought this annexation would prob-
ably prove " to be the gateway out of which the sable
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 not, and that
the <"ree States of the North should return to the
South persons who attempted to escape from slavery.

Mr. Johnson was never ashamed of his lowly origin:
on the contrary, he often took pride in avowing that
he owed his distinction to his own exertions. "Sir,"
said he on the floor of the Senate, " I do not forget
that I am a mechanic ; neither do I forget that Adam
was a tailor and sewed fig-leaves, and that our Sav-
ior was the son of a carpenter."

In the Charleston-Baltimore convention of i8uj, ne
was the choice of the Tennessee Democrats for the
Presidency. In 1861, when the purpose of the South-
im 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 punish. * * The people
must understand that it (treason) is the blackest of
crimes, and will surely be punished." Yet his whole
administration, the history of which is so well known,
was in utter inconsistency with, and the most violent

opposition to. the principles laid down in that speech.

In his loose policy of reconstruction and general
amnesty, he was opposed by Congress ; and he char- 1
acterized Congress as a new rebellion, and lawlessly
defied it, in everything possible, to the utmost. In
the beginning of 1868, on account of "high crimes
and misdemeanors," the principal of which was the
removal of Secretary Stanton, in violation of the Ten-
ure of Office Act, articles of impeachment were pre- }
ferred against him, and the trial began March 23.

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

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

ilBRARY

of v«e
mm-

7~&.

z<z

EIGHTEENTH FRES1DENT.

LYSSES S. GRANT, the
/§) eighteenth President of the
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, he entered
the Military Academy at West
Point. Here he was regarded as a
solid, sensible young man of fair abilities, and of
sturdy, honest character. He took respectable rank
as a scholar. In June, 1843, he graduated, about :he
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 Pal ma, 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 aninvil, ran the gauntlet in entire safety.

From Monterey he was sent, with the fourth infantry,
10 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 todischarge
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
Stale 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 placed 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 Henry
won another victory. Then came the brilliant fight
at Fort Donelson. The nation was electrified by the
victory, and the brave leader of the boys in blue was
immediately made a Major-General, and the military
.district of Tennessee was assigned to him.

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

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

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

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

At the Republican Convention held at Chicago.
May 21, 1868, he was unanimously nominated for the
Presidency, and at the autumn election received a
majority of the popular vote, and 214 out of 294
electoral votes.

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

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

He was the most prominent candidate before the
Republican National Convention in 1880 for a re-
nomination for President. He went to New York and
embarked in the brokerage business under the firm
nameof Grant & Ward. The latter proved a villain,
wrecked Grant's fortune, and for larceny was sent to
the penitentiary. The General was attacked with
cancer in the throat, but suffered in his stoic-like
manner, never complaining. He was re-instated as
General of the Army and retired by Congress. The
cancer soon finished its deadly work, and July 23,
1885, the nation went- in mourning over the death of
the illustrious General.

IIBRARY
Of T"F

UN'"-

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it 4* >

W- m

-*>-A_JL-

0-*V>

t J

NINETEENTH PRESIDENT.

9»

m RlTTBSItTOItD B, MMTMB, fe

UTHERFORD B. .HAYES,
the nineteenth President of
the United States, was born in
Delaware, O., Oct. 4, 1822, al-
most three months after the
death of his father, Rutherford
Hayes. His ancestry on both
the paternal and maternal sides,
was of the most honorable char-
acter. It can be traced, it is said,
as far back as 1280, when Hayes and
Rutherford were two Scottish chief-
tains, fighting side by side with
Baliol, William Wallace and Robert
Bruce. Both families belonged to the
nobility, owned extensive estates,
and had a large following. Misfor-
tane overtaking the family, George Hayes left Scot-
land in i6.So, and settled in Windsor, Conn. His son
George was. born in Windsor, and remained there
during his life. Daniel Hayes, son of the latter, mar-
ried Sarah Lee, and lived from the time of his mar-
riage until his death in Simsbury, Conn. Ezekiel,
son of Daniel, was born in 1724, and was a manufac-
turer of scythed at Bradford, Conn. Rutherford Hayes,
son of Ezekiel ai.d 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 unknown 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, 1813, to Sophia
Birchard, of Wilmington, Vt., whose ancestors emi-
grated thither from Connecticut, they having been
among the wealthiest and best famlies of Norwich.
Her ancestry on the male side are traced back to
1635, to John Birchard, one of the principal founders
of Norwich. Both of her grandfathers were soldiers
in the Revolutionary War.

The father of President Hayes was an industrious
frugal and opened-hearted man. He was of a me-
chanical turn, and could mend a plow, knit a stock-
ing, or do almost anything else that he choose to
undertake. He was a member of the Church, active
in all the benevolent enterprises of the town, and con-
ducted his business on Christian principles. After
the close of the war of 181 2, for reasons inexplicable
to his neighbors, he resolved to emigrate to Ohio.

The journey from Vermont to Ohio in that day
when there were no canals, steamers, 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 1817. He died July 22, 1822, a victim of malarial
fever, less than three months before the birth of the
son, of whom we now write. Mrs. Hayes, in her sore be-
reavement, found the support she so much needed in
her brother Sardis, who had been a member of the
household from the day of its departure from Ver-
mont, and in an orphan girl whom she had adopted
some time before as an act of charity.

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

9 2

RUTHERFORD B. HAYES.

subject of this sketch was so feeble at birtli 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 dud
last night. ' On one occasion a neighbor, who was on
familiar terms with the family, after alluding to the
boy's big head, and the mother's assiduous care of
him, said in a bantering way, " That's right! Stick to
him. You have got him along so far, and I shouldn't
wonder if he would really come to something yet."

" You 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 went 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 circumst
tended, no doubt, to foster that gentleness of dispo-
sition, and that delicate consideration for the feelings
of others, which are marked traits of his character.
His uncle Sardis Birchard took the deepest interest
In his education ; and as the boy's health had im-
proved, and he was making good progress in his
studies, he proposed to send him to college. His pre-
paration commenced with a tutor at home; bit he
was afterwards sent for one year to a professor in the
Wesleyan University, in Middletown, Conn. He en-
tered Kenyon College in 1838,31 the age of sixteen,
and was graduated at the head of his class in 1842.
Immediately after his graduation lie 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 graduating 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 Cincinnati, where his ambi-
tion found a new stimulus. For several years, how-
ever, his progress was slow. Two events, occurring at
this period, had a powerful influence upon his subse-
quent life. One of these was his marrage with Miss
Lucy Ware Webb, daughter of Dr. James Webb, of
Chilicothe; the othei was his introduction to the Cin-
cinnati Literary Club, a body embracing among its
members such men as^hief justice Salmon P, Chase,

Gen. John Pope, Gov. Edward F. Noyes, and many
others hardly less distinguished in afterlife. 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
a.id beloved than was Mis. Hayes, and no one did
more than she to reflect honor upon American woman
h.-od. The Litciary Cluu brought Mr. Hayes into
constant association with young men of high char
acter and noble aims, and lured him to display the
qualities so long hidden by his bashfulne:s and
modesty.

In 1856 he- was nominated to the office of Jud t ;.- 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 1S61, when the Rebellion broke out, he was a!
the zenith of his professional Vf_. His lank at the
bar was among the the first. But the news of the
attack, on Fort Sninpter found him eager to take "io
arms/ofjhe defense of his country.

His military re,oprd was bright ard illustrious. In
October, 1861, he was made Lieutenant-Colonel, and
in August, 1S62, promoted Colonel of the 79th Ohio
regiment, but he refused to leave his old comrades
and go among strangers. Subsequently, however, he
was made Colonel of his old regiment. At the battle
of South Mountain he received a wound, and while
faint and bleeding displayed courage and fortitude
that won admiration from all.

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

In 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 importuned to resign his
commission in the army; but he finally declared, " I
shall never come to Washington until I can come by
the way of Richmond." He was re-elected in 1866.

In 1867, Gen Hayes was elected Governor of Ohio,
over Hon. Allen G. Thurman, a populai Democrat.
In 1869 was re-elected over George H. Pendleton.
He was elected Governor for the third term in 1875.

In 1876 he was the standard bearer of the Repub-
lican Party in t lie Presidential contest, and after a
hard long contest was chosen President- and was in
augurated Monday, March 5, 1875. He served his
full term, not, h. wever, with satisfaction to his party,
bis admir'stration was an average orv*

OF ITO
Iff i ■

TWENTIETH PRESIDENT.

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AMES A. GARFIELD, twen-
tieth President of the United
States, was born Nov. 19,
1S31, 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 of
poor Ohio farmers of that day. It
.its about 20x30 feet, built of logs, with the spaces be-
.'.veen the logs filled with clay. His father was a
.'iard working farmer, and he soon had his fields
cleared, an orchard planted, and a log barn built,
fhe household comprised the father and mother and
dieir four children — Mehetabel, Thomas, Mary and
Tames. In May, 1823, the father, from a cold con-
tacted in helping to put out a forest fire, died. At
this time James was about eighteen months old, and
Fhomas about ten years old. No one, perhaps, can
tell how much James was indetted r to his biother's
toil and self-sacrifice during the twenty years suc-
ceeding his father's death, but undoubtedly very
much. He now lives in Michigan, and the two sis-
ters live in Solon, O., near their birthplace.

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

gether. Nor was Gen. Garfield ever ashamed of his
origin, and he never forgot the friends of his strug-
gling childhood, youth and manhood, neither did the)
ever forget him. When in the highest seats of honor
the humblest friend 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 1 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 sixteen years old was to be a captain oi
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 other kind of employment. He walked all the
way to Cleveland. This was his first visit to the city
After making many applications for work, and trying
to get aboard a lake vessel, and not meeting with
success, he engaged as a driver for his cousin, Amos
Letcher, on the Ohio & Pennsylvania Canal. Here-
mained at this work but a short time when he wen"
home, 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
the meantime, and doing other work. This school
was started by the Disciples of Christ in 1850, of
which church he was then a member. He became
janitor and bell-ringer in order to help pay his way
He then became both teacher and pupil. He soon
" exhausted Hiram " and needed more ; hence, in the
fall of 1854, he entered Williams College, from whi :h
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 ;

9«

JAMES A. GARFIELD.

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

Mr. Garfield made his first political speeches in 1856,
in Hiram and the neighboring villages, and three
years later he began to speak at county mass-meet-
ings, and became the favorite speaker wherever he
was. During this year he was elected to the Ohio
Senate. He also began to study law at Cleveland,
and in 1861 was admitted to the bar. The great
Rebellion broke out in the early part of this year,
and Mr. Garfield at once resolved to fight as he had
talked, and enlisted to defend the old flag. He re-
ceived his commission as Lieut.-Colonel of the Forty-
second Regiment of Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Aug.
14, 1861. He was immediately put into active ser-
vice, and before he had ever seen a gun fired 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 Couit-Martial for the trial of Gen. Fitz-John
Porter. He was then ordered to report to Gen. Rose-
crans, and was assigned to the "Chief of Staff."

The military history of Gen. Garfield closed with

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

Without an effort on his part Get? Garfield wa»
elected to Congress in the fall of 1862 from the
Nineteenth District of Ohio. This section of Ohio
had been represented in Congress for sixty years
mainly by two men — Elisha Whittlesey 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 that
body. There he remained by successive re-
elections until he was elected President in 1880.
Of his labors in Congress Senator Hoar says : " Since
the year 1864 you cannot think of a question which
has been debated in Congress, or discussed before u
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."

•Upon 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 favo: 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 inflicting 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 the moment, as this awful deed. He was smit-
ten on the brightest, gladdest day of all his life, and
was at the summit of his power and hope. For eighty
days, all during the hot months of July and August,
he lingered and suffered. He, however, remained
master of himself till the last, and by his magnificent
bearing was teaching the country and the world the
noblest of human lessons — how to live grandly in the
very clutch of death. Great in life, he was surpass-
ingly great in death. He passed serenely away Sept.
19, 1883, at Elberon, N. J., on the very bank of the
ocean, where he had been taken shortly previous. The
world wept at his death, as it never had done on the
death of any other man who had ever lived upon it.
The murderer was duly tried, found guilty and exe-
cuted, in one year after he committed the foul deed.

II. ■■■

ilBRARV
OF THr

TWENTY-FIRST PRESIDENT.

HESTER A. ARTHUR,
twenty-first Presi'i-iii. of the

^United States, was born in

P ranklin Cour ty, Vermont, on

$o the fifth of Odober, 1830, andis

the oldest of a family of two

sons and five daughters. His

father was the Rev. Dr. William 1

Arthur, a Baptist d'.rgyman, who

emigrated to tb'.s country from

the county Antrim, Ireland, in

i jjj his 18th year, and died in 1875, in

} |J Newtonville, neai Albany, after a

long and successful ministry.

Young Arthur was educated at
Union College, S< henectady, where
he excelled in all his studies. Af-
ter his graduation he taught school
in Vermont for two years, and at
the expiration of that time came to
New York, with $500 in his pocket,
and entered the office of ex-Judge
E. D. Culver as student. After
being admitted to r the bar he formed
a partnership with his intimate friend and room-mate,
Henry D. Gardiner, with the intention of practicing
in the West, and for three months they roamed about
in the Western States in search of an eligible site,
but in the end returned to New York, where they
hung out their shingle, and entered upon a success-
ful career almost from the start. General Arthur
»oon afterward nwr<-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 the bravery he displayed on that occa-
sion. Mrs. Arthur died shortly before Mr. Arthur's
nomination to the Vice Presidency, leaving two
children.

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

/oo

CHESTER A. ARTHUR.

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

General Arthur was a delegate to the Convention
at Saratoga that founded the Republican party.
Previous to the war he was Judge- Advocate of the
Second Brigade of the State of New York, and Gov-
ernor Morgan, of that State, appointed him Engineer-
in-Chief of his staff. In 1S61, 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
politics. 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,
20, 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 thecontinent. 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 their
respective candidates that were before the conven-
tion for the nomination. Finally Gen. Garfield re-
ceived the nomination for President and Gen. Arthur
for Vice-President. The campaign which followed
was one of the most animated known in the history of
our country. Gen. Hancock, the standard-bearer of
the Democratic party, was a popular man, and his
party made a valiant fight for his election.

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

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

At last God in his mercy relieved President Gar-
field from further suffering, and the world, as never
before in its history over the death of any other
man, wept at his bier.' Then it became the duty of
the Vice President to f.ssume the responsibilities of
the high office, and he took the oath in New York.
Sept. 20, 18S1. 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 fa : thfully, until the
close of his administration, March 4, 1885, and was
a popular candidate before his party for a second
term. His name was ably presented before the con-
vention at Chicago, and was received with great
favor, and doubtless but for the personal popularity
of one of the opposing candidates, he would have
been selected as the standard-bearer of his party
for another campaign. He retired to private life car-
rying with him the best wishes of the American peo-
ple, whom he had served in a manner satisfactory
to them and with credit to himself.

IIBRARY
OF T' r

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TWENTY-SECOND PRESIDENT.

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TEPHEN GROVER CLEVE-
LAN D,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
f^> 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 c: 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 borr..

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 Lis father
and the large family 0.1 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 $t 00 the second year. Here the lad com-
menced his career as salesman, and in two years he
had earned so good a reputation for trustworthiness
that his employers desired to retain him for an in
definite length of time. Otherwise he did not ex-
hibit as yet any particular " flashes of genius " or
eccentricities of talent. He was simply a good boy.
But instead of remaining with this firm in Fayette-
ville, he went with the family in their removal to
Clinton, where he had an opportunity of attending a
high school. Here he industriously pursued his
studies until the family removed with him to a point
on Black River known as the " Holland Patent," a
village of 500 or 600 people, 15 miles north of Utica,
N. Y. At this place his father died, after preaching
but three Sundays. This event broke up the family,
and Grover set out for New York City to accept, at a
small salary, the position of " under-teacher " in an
asylum for the blind. He taught faithfully for two
years, and although he obtained a good reputation in
this capacity, he concluded that teaching was not liis

S. GROVE R CLEVELAND.

calling for life, and, reversing the traditional order,
he left the city to seek his fortune, instead of going
to a city. He 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
ask 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
die old gentleman ; " do you, indeed ? What ever put
that into your head? How much money have you
got.'" "Well, sir, to tell the truth, I haven't got
any."

After a long consultation, his uncle offered him a
place temporarily as assistant herd-keeper, at $50 a
year, while lie could " look around." One day soon
afterward he boldly walked into the office of Rogers,
Bowen & Rogers, of Buffalo, and told them what he
wanted. A number of young men were already en-
gaged in the office, but Graver's persistency won, and
he was finally permitted to come as an office boy and
Have the use of the law library, for the nominal sum
of $3 or $4 a week. Out of this he had to pay for
his board and washing. The walk to and from his
uncle's was a long and rugged one; and, although
the first winter was a memorably severe one, his
shoes were out of repair and his overcoat — he had
none — yet he was nevertheless prompt and regular.
On the first day of his service here, his senior em-
ployer threw down a copy of Blackstone before him
with a bang that made the dust fly, saying "That's
where they all begin." A titter ran around the little
circle of clerks and students, as they thought that
was enough to scare young Grover out of his plans ;
out in due time he mastered that cumbersome volume.
Then, as ever afterward, however, Mr. Cleveland
exhibited a talent for executiveness rather than for
chasing principles through all their metaphysical
possibilities.. " Let us quit talking and go and do
it," was practically his motto.

The first public office to which Mr. Cleveland was
elected 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 pi'i.ishment upon two
criminals. In iSSr he was elected Mayor of the
City of Buffalo, 0:1 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 iniqui-
tous street-cleaning contract: "This is a time for
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 people 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 i8S2,
and his administration of the affairs of State was
generally satisfactory. The mistakes he made, if
any, were made very public throughout the nation
after he was nominated for President of the United
States. For this high office he was nominated July
it, 1884, by the National Democratic Convention at
Chicago, when other competitors were Thomas F.
Bayard, Roswell P. Flower, Thomas A. Hendricks,
Benjamin F. Butler, Allen G. Thurman, etc.; and he
was elected by the people, by a majority of about a
thousand, over the brilliant and long-tried Repub-
lican statesman, James G. Blaine. President Cleve-
land resigned his office as Governor of New York in
January, 18S5, 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,

LIBRARY
Of T« r

«H%;

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6&0^7vAs<^&-~ZsC

TWENTY -THIRD PRESIDENT.

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INJAMIN HARRISON, the
twenty-third President, is
the descendant of one of the
historical families of this
country. The head of the
family was a Major General
Harrison, one of Oliver
Cromwell's trusted follow-
ers and fighters. In the zenith of Crom-
[p well's power it became the duty of this
Harrison to participate in the trial 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, 16C0. 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 i 774-5-6, and was one of the original
signers of the Declaration of Independence. He
wac three times elected Governor of Virginia.
Gen William Henry Harrison, the son of the

distinguished patriot of the Revolution, after a suc-
cessful career as a soldier during the War of 1812,
and with -a clean record as Governor of the North-
western Territory, was elected President of the
United States in 1840. His career was cut short
by death within one month :.fter his inauguration.
President Harrison was born at North Bend,
Hamilton Co., Ohio, Aug. =?0, 1833. His life up to
the time of his graduation by the Miami University
at Oxford, Ohio, was the uneventful one of a coun-
try lad of a family of small means. His father was
able to give him a good education, and nothing
more. He became engaged while at college to th.3
daughter of Dr. Scott, Principal of a female schoo
at Oxford. After graduating he determined to en^
ter upon the study of the law. He went to Cin
einnati and then read law for two years. At the
expiration of that time young Harrison received tt:,
only inheritance of his life ; his aunt dying left him
a lot valued at $800. He regarded this legacy ast
fortune, and decided to get married at once, <aks
this money and goto some Eastern town an", oe-
gin the practice of law. He sold his lot, and with
the money in his pocket, he started out witu his
young wife to fight for a place in the world. Uie

108

BENJAMIN HARRISON.

iceided to go to Indianapolis, which was even at
(hat time a town of promise. He met with slight
encouragement at first, making scarcely anything
the first year. 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.

In 18GC Mr. Harrison was nominated for the
position of Supreme Court Reporter, and then be-
gan his experience as a stump speake: He can-
vassed the State thoroughly, and was elected by a
handsome majority. In 18C2 he raised the 17th
Indiana Infantry, and was chosen its Colonel. His
regiment was composed of the rawest of material,
out Col. Harrison employed all his time at first
mastering military tactics and drilling his men,
when he therefore came to move toward the East
with Sherman his regiment was one of the best
drilled and organized in the arm)-. At Resaca he
especially distinguished himself, and for his bravery
tit Peachtree Creek he was made a Brigadier Gen-
eral, Gen. Hooker speaking of him in the most
complimentary terms.

During the absence of Gen. Harrison in the field

he Supreme Court declared the office of the Su-
preme Court Reporter vacant, and another person
was elected to the position. From the time of leav-
ing Indiana with his regiment until the fall of 1 8G4
ne had taken no leave of absence, but having been
nominated that year for the same office, he got a
thirty-day leave of absence, and during that time
made a brilliant canvass of the State, and was elected
for another term. He then started to rejoin Sher-
man, but on the way was stricken down with scarlet
,ever, and after a most trying siege made his way
to the front in time to participate in the closing
ucidents of the war.

In 18G8 Gen. Harrison declined r, re-election as
reporter, and resumed the practice of law. In 1876
ie was a candidate for Governor. Although de-

eated, the brilliant campaign he made won for him
i National reputation, and he was much sought, es-
peciai.y in the East, to make speeches. In 1880,
as usua!, he took an active part in the campaign,
■•ml mi' elected to the United States Senate. Here
lie served six 3'ears, and .vas known as one oi the
Ablest men, best lawyer-" ..iui strongest debaters in

that bociy. With tiie 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 country. The
convention which assembled in Chicago in June and
named Mr. Harrison as the chief standard bearer
of the Republican party, was great in every partic-
ular, and on this account, and the attitude it as-
sumed upon the vital questions of the day, chief
among which was the tariff, awoke a deep interest
in the campaign throughout the Nation. Shortly
after the nomination delegations began to visit Mr.
Harrison at Indianapolis, his home. This move-
ment became popular, and from all sections of the
country societies, clubs and delegations journeyed
thither to pay their respects to the distinguished
statesman. The popularity of these was greatly
increased on account of the remarkable speeches
made by Mr. Harrison. He spoke daily all through
the summer and autumn to these visiting delega-
tions, and so varied, masterly and eloquent were
his speeches that they at once placed him in the
foremost rank of American orators and statesmen.

On account of his eloquence as a speaker and his
power as a debater, he was called upon at an un-
commonly early age to take part in the discussion
of the great questions that then began (j agitate
the country. He was an uncompromising ant:
slavery man. and was matched against some of tie
most eminent Democratic speakers of his State.
No man who felt the touch of his blade dezired to
be pitted with him again. With 'all his eloquence
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 witis
quick perception, a logical mind and a ready tongue,
he is one of the most distinguished impromptu
speakers in the Nation. Many of these speeches
sparkled with the rarest of eloquence and contained
arguments of greatest weight. Many- of his terse
.statements have already become aphorisms. ( )i igi-
nal in thought^ precise in logic, terse m statement,
yet withal faultless in eloquence, he is recognized as
the sound statesman and brill ian orator o- tu^ day

^vfc-#oV*'

ISfet%-

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GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

ill

HADRACH BOND, the first
Governor of Illinois after its
organization as a State, serving
from 1818 to 1822, was born in
Frederick County, Maryland,
in the 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," neat-
Eagle Creek, in what is now Monroe
County. He served several terms as
a member of the General Assembly
of Indiana Territory, after it was organized as such,
and in 1812-14 he was a Delegate to the Twelfth
and Thirteenth Congresses, taking his seat Dec. 3,
1812, and serving until Oct. 3, 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 history of this
State as that in which the first Territorial Legislature
was held. It convened at Kaskaskia, Nov. 25, and
adjourned Dec. 26, following.

While serving as Delegate to Congress, Mt. Bond
was instrumental in procuring the right of pre-emp-
tion on the public domain. On the expiration of his
term at Washington he was appointed Receiver of
Public Moneys at Kaskaskia, then the capital of the
Territory. In company 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 great
rivers near the center of the Great West, would
rapidly develop into a metropolis. To aid the enter-
prise, they obtained a special charter from the Legis-
lature, incorporating both the City and the Bank of
Cairo.

In 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, 18 18, the Territorial Legislature sent a peti-
tion to Congress for the admission of Illinois as a
State, Nathaniel Pope being then Delegate. The
petition was granted, fixing the northern line of the
State on the latitude of the southern extremity of
Lake Michigan; but the bill was afterward so amend-
ed as to extend this line to its present latitude. In
July a convention was called at Kaskaskia to draft a
constitution, which, however, was not submitted to
the people. By its provisions, supreme judges, pros
ecuting attorneys, county and circuit judges, record-
ers and justices of the peace were all to be appointed
by the Governor or elected by the Legislature. This
constitution was accepted by Congress Dec. 30. At
that time Illinois comprised but eleven counties,
namely, Randolph, Madison, Gallatin, Johnson,
Pope, Jackson, Crawford, Bond, Union, Washington
and Franklin, the northern portion of the State be-
ing mainly in Madison County. Thus it appears
that Mr. Bond was honored by the naming of a

SHADRACH BOND.

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

The principal points that excited the people in
reference to political issues at this period were local
or "internal improvements," as they were called,
State banks, location of the capital, slavery and the
personal characteristics of the propased candidates.
Mr. Bond represented the "Convention party," for
introducing slavery into the State, supported by Elias
Kent Kane, his Secretary of State, and John Mc-
Lean, while Nathaniel Pope and John P. Cook led
the anti-slavery element. The people, however, did
not become very much excited over this issue until
1820, when the famous Missouri Compromise was
adopted by Congress, limiting slavery to the south
of the parallel of 36° 30' except in Missouri. While
this measure settled the great slavery controversy,
so far as the average public sentiment was tempor-
arily concerned, until 1854, when it was repealed
under the leadership of Stephen A. Douglas, the issue
as considered locally in this State was not decided
until '824, after a most furious campaign. (See
sketch of Gov. Coles.) The ticket of 18 18 was a
compromise one, Bond representing (moderately) the
pro-slavery sentiment and Menard the anti-slavery.

An awkward element in the State government
under Gov. Bond's administration, was the imperfec-
tion of the State constitution. The Convention
wished to have Elijah C. Berry for the first Auditor
of Public Accounts, but, as it was believed that the
new Governor would not appoint him to 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 appointed by the General Assembly." The
Constitution, as it stood, vested a very large appoint-
ing power in the Governor; but for the purpose of
getting one man into office, a total change was made,
and the power vested in the Legislature. Of this
provision the Legislature took advantage, and de-

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 whole, Gov. Bond's administration was
fairly good, not being open to severe criticism from
any party. In 1824, two years after the expiration
of his term of office, he was brought out as a candi-
date for Congress against the formidable John P.
Cook, but received only 4,374 votes to 7,460 for the
latter. Gov. Bond was no orator, but had made
many fast friends by a judicious L-ictjwment 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-
position, a man of shrewd observation and clear ap-
preciation of events. His person was erect, stand-
ing six feet in height, and after middle life became
portly, weighing 200 pounds. His features were
strongly masculine, complexion dark, hair jet and
eyes hazel ; was a favorite with the ladies. He died
April 1 1, 1830, in peace and contentment.

UBRARY
Of T«P

Ldw~usu) Ccru2<?

GO VERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

Ebwarfc Coles,

*-Mk.£-3

%$a

DWARD COLES, second
Governor of Illinois, 1823-
. 6, was born Dec. 15, 1786,
in Albemarle Co., Va., on
the old family estate called
"Enniscorthy," on the
Green 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.
This college he left in the summer of
1807, a short time before the final and graduating
examination. Among his classmates were Lieut.
Gen. Scott, President John Tyler, Win. S. Archer,
United States Senator from Virginia, and Justice
Baldwin, of the United States Supreme Court. The
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 prominent one in Vir-
ginia, and their mansion was the seat of the old-
fashioned Virginian hospitality. It was visited by
such notables as Patrick Henry, Jefferson, Madison,
Monroe, the Randolphs, Tazewell, Wirt, etc. At the
age of 23, young Loles founa himself heir to a plant-
ation and a considerable number of slaves. Ever
since his earlier college days his attention had been
drawn to the question of slavery. He read every-

thing on the subject that came in his way, and
listened to lectures on the rights of man. The more
he 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. Madison was because he believed
that through the acquaintances he could make at
Washington he could better determine in what part
of the non-slaveho!ding portion of the Union he woulc
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-

ti6

EDWARD COLES.

ander) of the error committed by his minister at

mngton, and the consequent withdrawal of the

tho latter from the post. On his return, Mr. Coles

. ■■'. • e, especially Paris, where

he was introduced to Gen. Lafayette.

[n the spring j, 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 them his intention until om beautiful
morning hi April, as they were descending the Ohio
River. He lashed all the boats together and called
all the negroes on died mode them a short ad-

dress, concluding his remarks by so expressing him-
arn of a sentence he proclaimed in
the shortest and fullest manner that they were no
;et slaves, but free as he was and were at liberty
to proceed with him or go ashore at their pleas-
ure. A des..n >tion of die effect upon the negroes is
cribed in his own la
QEectt upon them was . They stared

6 doubting the ac-
cural they heard. In breathless
silence tr :> utter a word,
but with countenances I.i..: ; with expression which
no words could convey, and which no

. in to see the tail

ion, there
came . . . .

■ intense i
in tea

thei tr g g of God

on a

Be ...

:ied more pan
v ' *ach

Eeri .

:nes.

■

:
- i .

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 ons 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 jf the
. lavery which then existed in this

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 lime almost ex-
clusively from slave-In. md by a large
majority in favor of the perpetuation of that old relic
of barbarism. The Legislature itself was, of course,
a rerlex of the popular sentiment, and a majority of
them d on by fiery men in denunciations o|
□nscienrious 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 yelled
and groaned and spat fire.

The Constitution, not establishing or permitting
slavery in this State, was thought therefore to be
defective by the slavery politicians, and they desired
3 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
died by the latter party. This address revealed
the schemes of the conspirators in a masterly .Ban-
ner. It is difficult for us at this distant day to esti-
d extremely delicate situation in
1 the Governor was placed at that time.
- hero maintained himself honorably and with
.. cut his administration, and
. led. He
1 great man, and those who lived in
state wjourn here, like those who

e mountain, were too near to see
ttov ••- iadi w .-■.: therm
s was ixried Ni • 3, bv Bishop

.titer

:stry,

am. to this country with Wm. Penn in 1682.

: rn of service. Gov.

Idwardsville, sup-

y. He vis fond

i^ri-

iccount of ill

•am

didel-

Of !*•

W- G

' o c$-0[j&--^JL

GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

iiii a 11 Ed,wfiidi>

-fe-v>-4-

INIAN EDWARDS, Governor

from 1827 to 1830, was a son

of Benjamin Edwards, and

was born in Montgomery

r> County, Maryland, in March,

1.775-

His domestic train-

**"<£' *" ing was well fitted to give
his mind strength, firmness and
honorable 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
youth was in company with and
partly under the tuition of Hon. \Vm.
Wirt, whom his father patronized,
and who was more than two years
older. An intimacy was thus
formed 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 lie moved to Nelson
County, Ky., to open a farm for his father and to
purchase homes and locate lands for his brothers and
sisters. Here he fell in the company of dissolute
companions, and for several years led the life of a
spendthrift. He was, however, elected to the Legis-
lature of Kentucky as the Representative of Nelson
ixmnty before he was 2 r 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
became an eminent lawyer, and inside of four years
he filled in succession the offices of Presiding Judge
of the General Court, Circuit Judge, fourth Judge of
the Court of Appeals and Chief Justice of the State,
— all before he was 32 years of age! 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 the Jefferson and Clinton
ticket. In 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 1809, when Mr. Edwards, then Chief
Justice of the Court of Appeals in Kentucky, received
from President Madison the appointment as Gover-
nor of the new Territory, his commission bearing date
April 24, tSog. Edwards arrived at Kaskaskia in
June, and on the 1 ith of that month took the oath of
office. At the same time he was appointed Superin-
tendent of the United States Saline, this Government
interest then 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.

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

The Indians in 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 1812, and a fresh interpretation of
the treaties. Peoria was depopulated by these de-
predations, and was not re-settled for many years
afterward.

As Gov. Edwards' term of office expired by law in
1812, he was re-appointed for another term of three
years, and again in 18 15 for a third term, serving
until the organization of the State in the fall of 1818
and the inauguration of Gov. Bond. At this time
ex-Gov. Edwards was sent to the United States
Senate, his colleague being Jesse B. Thomas. As
Senator, Mr. Edwards took a conspicuous part, and
acquitted himself honorably in all the measures that
came up in that body, being well posted, an able de-
bater and a conscientious statesman. He thought
.eriously of resigning this situation in 1821, but was
persuaded by his old friend, Wm. Wirt, and others to
continue in office, which he did to the end of the
term.

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

Pro-slavery regulations, often termed "Black Laws,"
Disgraced the statute books of both the Territory and
he State of Illinois during the whole of his career in
;his commonwealth, and Mr. Edwards always main-
tained the doctrines of freedom, and was an important
;xtoi in the great struggle which ended in a victory
f or his party in 1824.

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

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 War." A few
chases and skirmishes were had, when Gen. Atkinson
succeeded in capturing Red Bird, the Indian chief,
and putting him to death, thus ending the contest, at
least until the troubles commenced which ended in
the "Black Hawk War" of 1832. In the interpre-
tation of treaties and execution of their provisions
Gov. Edwards had much vexatious work to do. The
Indians kept themselves generally within the juris-
diction of Michigan Territory, and its Governor,
Lewis Cass, was at a point so remote that ready cor-
respondence with him was difficult or impossible.
Gov. Edwards' administration, however, in regard to
the protection of the Illinois frontier, seems to have
been vety 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 noless than eight orten
stores in this State and Missouri. Notwithstanding
the arduous duties of his office, he nearly always pur-
chased the goods himself with which to supply the
stores. Although not a regular practitioner of medi-
cine, he studied the healing art to a considerable ex-
tent, and took great pleasure in prescribing for, and
taking care of, the sick, generally without charge.
He was also liberal to the poor, several widows and
ministers of the gospel becoming indebted to him
even for their homes.

He married Miss Elvira Lane, of Maryland, in
1803, and they became the affectionate parents of
several children, one of whom, especially, is well
known to the people of the " Prairie State," namely.
Ninian Wirt Edwards, once the Superintendent O
Public Instruction and still a resident of Springfield
Gov. Edwards resided at and in the vicinity of Kas-
kaskia from 1809101818; in Edwardsville (named
after him) from that time to 1824; and from the lat-
ter date at Belleville, St. Clair County, until his
death, July 20, 1833, of Asiatic cholera. Edwards
County is als^ named in his honor.

LIBRARY
OF THE
UNIT*-*

GO VERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

127

->-5~«§ o<s«^fet *-J<"

&OHN REYNOLDS, Governor 1831-

4, was born in Montgomery Coun-
ty, Pennsylvania, Feb. 26, 1788.
His father, Robert Reynolds and
his mother, nee 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 the " 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 himself
into the society of the wealthy in the vicinity of
Knoxville! He attended college nearly two years,
going through the principal Latin authors; but it
seems that he, like the rest of the world in modern
times, had but very little use for his Latin in after
life. He always failed, indeed, to exhibit any good
degree of literary 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 1812 he was
admitted to the Bar at Kaskaskia. About this time
he also learned the French language, which he
practiced with pleasure in conversation with his
family for many years. He regarded this language
as being superior to all others for social intercourse.

12 4

JOHN REYNOLDS.

From his services in the West, in the waroi 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 spring 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
of the campaign was " Jackson " and " anti-Jackson,"
*he former party carrying the State.

In August, 1S30, Mr. Reynolds was elected Gov-
ernor, 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 recemmended the winding up of the
State Bank, as its affairs had become dangerously
complicated. In his national politics, he was a
moderate supporter of General Jackson. But the
most celebrated event of his gubernatorial admin-
istration was the Black Hawk War, which occurred
in 1832. He called out the militia and prosecuted
the contest with commendable diligence, appearing
in person on the battle-grounds during the most
critical periods. He was recognized by the President
as Major-General, and authorized by him to make
treaties with the Indians. By the assistance of the
ger.f.ral Government the war was terminated without
much bloodshed, but after many serious fights. This
war, as well as everything else, was materially re-
tarded by the occurrence of Asiatic cholera in the
West. This was its first appearance here, and was
the next event in prominence during Gov. Reynolds'
term.

South Carolina nullification coming up at this time,
t was heartily condemned by both President Jackson
<.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 considering himself a backwoodsman, as
r e had scarcely been outside of the Slate since he
became of age, and had spent nearly all his youthful
lays in the wildest region of the frontier. His first
iiove in Congress was to adopt a resolution that in
all elections made by the House for officers the votes
should be given viva voce, each member in his place
naming aloud the person for whom he votes. This
created, considerable heated discussion, but was es-

sentially adopted, and remained the controlling prin-
ciple for many years. The ex Governor was scarcely
i'oscnt 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. During 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 1839 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 1S46 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
q( the war.

i-IBRARY
OF THE

GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

'*7

LLIAM LEE D. EVVING,
* Governor of Illinois Nov. 3
figs 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
ed sentiment. In 1830 John Rey-
s was elected Governor of the State,
Zadok Casey Lieutenant Governor,
for the principal events that followed,
the characteristics of the times, see
:h of Gov. Reynolds. The first we
in history concerning Mr. Ewing, in-
s us that he was a Receiver of Public
Moi.eys at Var.dalia soon after the organization of
Miis State, and that the public moneys in his hands
vere deposited in various banks, as they are usually
' ll). /resent day. In 1823 the State Bank was
ubbed, by which disaster Mr. Ewing lost a thousand-
dolbr deposit.

1'he subject of this sketch had a commission as
Colonel in the Black Hawk War, and in emergencies
ne acred also as Major. In the summer of 1832,
11 hen i <?ras rumored among the whites that Black
Hawk ar.d his men had encamped somewhere on
Rock River, Gen. Henry was sent on a tour of
reconnoisance, and with orders to drive the Indians
from the State. After some opposition from his
subordinate officers, Henry resolved to proceed up
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 might
make speedy and forced marches. For some miles
the travel was exceedingly bad, crossing swamps
and the worst thickets ; but the large, fresh trail
gave life and animation to 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 50
miles this day, and the Indian trail they followed
became fresher, and was strewed with much property
and trinkets of the red-skin-, that they had lost or
thrown away to hasten their march. During the
following night there was a terrific thunder-storm, and
the soldiery, with all their appurtenances, were thor-
oughly drenched.

On approaching nearer the Indians the next day.
Gen. Dodge and Major Ewing, each commanding a
battalion of men, were placed in front to bring on the
battle, but the savages were not overtaken this day
Forced marches were continued until they reached.
Wisconsin River, where a veritable battle ensued,
resulting in the death of about 68 of Black Hawk's
men. The next day they continued the chase, and
as soon as he discovered the trail of the Indians
leading 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, which 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 an d Foxes, in-

I2S

WILLIAM L. D. EWING.

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

In the above affair Maj. Ewing is often referred Id
as a "General," which title he had derived from hi^
connection with the militia.

It was in the latter part of the same year (1832)
that Lieutenant Governor Casey was elected to Con-
gress and Gen. Ewing, who had been elected to the
Senate, was chosen to preside over that body. At
the August election of 1S34, Gov. Reynolds was also
elec'ed to Congress, more than a year ahead of the
time 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 term. Accordingly he set out for Wash-
ington in November of that year to take his seat in
Congress, and Gen. Ewing, by virtue of his office as
President of the Senate, became Governor of the
Stat;: of Illinois, his term covering only a period of
15 da"s. namely, from the 3d to the 17th days, in-
clusive, of November. On the 17th the Legislature
met, and Gov. Ewing transmitted to that body his
message, giving a statement of the condition of the
affairs of the State at that time, and urging a contin-
uance of the policy adopted by his predecessor; and
on the same day Governor elect Joseph Duncan
was sworn into office, thus relieving Mr. Ewing from

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

On the 29th of December, 1835, Gen. Ewing was
elected a United States Senator to serve out the
unexpired term of Elias Kent Kane, deceased. The
latter gentleman was a very prominent figure in the
early politics of Illinois', and a county in this State is
named in his honor. The election of Gen. Ewing to
the Senate was a protracted struggle. His competi-
tors were James Semple, who 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 121I1 E.ving received 40, to Semple 37, and was
accordingly declared elected. In 1837 Mr. Ewing
received some votes for a continuance of his term in
Cori£»es4f;when Mr. Young, just referred to, was
electep. .Jin. 1842. Mr. Ewing was elected State
Auditor 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.

1/BHAflY

Of 1M

UNIVERSITY <v it Umii

Jb*&/^ 2^

GO VERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

'3'

mm gostph Huwcatt. t§M

OSEPH DUNCAN, Governor
-^ 1S34-8, was born at Paris,
Ky., Feb. 23, 1794. At the
tender age of 19 years he en-
listed in the war against Great
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-General 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 for introducing the 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.
As yet he was but little known in the State. He was
.in original Jackson man at that time, being attached
to his political fortune in admiration of the glory of
his militaiy achievements. His chances of success
against Cook were generally regarded as hopeless,
hut he entered upon the campaign undaunted. His
speeches, though short and devoid of ornament, were
fuli 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

-t9c—

obtain a respectable vote, but without defeating Mr
Cook. The result of the campaign, however, was a
source of surprise and amazement to both friends
and foes, as Mr. Duncan came out 641 votes ahead!
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 personal considerations
had ever before controlled an election in Illinois.

From the above date Mr. Duncan retained his
seat in Co.igress 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 participate 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, formerly his
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 at
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

132

JOSEPH DUNCAN.

sincere in his opposition to the old hero, as the latter
,: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
r gainst 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 banks 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 State. The hard times of 1837 came on,
and the disasters that attended the inauguration of
.iiese plans and the operation of the banks were mu-
tually charged upon the two political parties. Had
any ore 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 ;
tut as many jealous men had hold of the same plow
handle, no success followed and each blamed the other
for the failure. In this great vortex Gov. Duncan
was carried along, suffering the like derogation of
character with his fellow citizens.

At the height of the excitement 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, Quincy via Springfield to the Wabash,
Blooniington 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-
.ributed 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
placed at a little over $10,000,000, which was not
aiore than 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
in this fair State was the murder of Elijah P. Love-
ioy in the fall of 1837, at Alton, during Mr. Duncan's
lerm 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 th?
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 1838. 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
;^^"m^crats. 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 temporary
support of the Mormons which they enjoyed, and the
want o." any knowledge, on the part of the masses,
that Mr. Ford was opposed to any given policy 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 purpose. 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 portrait 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
eyes 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. r5, 1844, a devoted
member of the Presbyterian Church, leaving a wife
but no children. Two children, born to them, had
died in infancy.

UBBMCf

university pnt»iNo«s

■r/o^U^^

GO VERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

'35

TMw > ^|>^<|p < ****** > |

-.._,.:M., ; ->^.. ■

gliHOMAS CARLIN, the sixth
Governor of the State of
Illinois, serving from 1S38
to 1S42, was also a Ken-
tuckian, being born near
Frankfort, that State, July
18, 17S9, of Irish paternity.
The opportunities for an education
being very meager in his native
place, he, on approaching years of
judgment 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
yi'^S^f'A. study remained with him through
*w^¥^re* ]if e _ j n t g 03 hi s f al her removed

10 Missouri, then a part of " New Spain," where he
died in 18 10.

In 1812 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 the bank of the
Mississippi River, opposite the mouth of the Mis-
lead, where he followed farming, and then removed
to Greene County. He located the town site of Car-
ro'ton, 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, the 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 Stale
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
campiign, and most of the old members of the Leg-
islature were returned at this election.

Under these circumstances the Democrats, in State
Convention assembled, nominated Mr. Carlin for *he
office of Governor, and S. H. Anderson for Lieuten-
ant Governor, while the Whigs nominated Cyrus Ed-
wards, brother of Ninian Edwards, formerly Governor,
and W. H. Davidson. Edwards came out strongly
for a continuance of the State policy, while Carli;
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 ele:tion was: Carlin, 35,573; Ander-
son, 30,335; Edwards, 29,629; and Davidson, 28,-

7*5-

Upon the meeting of the subsequent Legislature

(1839), the retiring Governor CDuncan) in his roe*

136

THOMAS CARLTN.

sage spoke in emphatic terms of the impolicy of the
internal improvement system, presaging the evils
threatened, and mged 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. Clvcago at that time began to
loom up and promise to be an important city, even
the great emporium of the West, as it has since in-
deed came to be. Ex-Gov. Reynolds, an incompe-
tent financier, was commissioned to effect the loan,
and accordingly hastened to the East on this respons-
ible errand, and negotiated the loans, at considera-
ble sacrifice to the State. Besides this embarrassment
x> Carlin's administration, the Legislature also de-
clared that he had no authority to appoint a Secretary
of State until a vacancy existed, and A. P. Field, a
Whig, who had already held the post by appointment
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 establish the principle of life-tenure
of office.

A new law was adopted re-organizing the Judici-
ary, and under it five additional Supreme Judges
were elected by the Legislature, namely, Thomas
Ford (afterward Governor), Sidney Breese, Walter B.
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 somewhat in State politics. On
account of their believing — as they thought, accord-
ing to the New Testament — that they should have

"all things common," and that consequently "all
the earth " and all that is upon it were the" Lord's "
and therefore the property of his " saints," they
were suspected, and correctly, too, of committing
many of the deeds of larceny, robbery, etc., that
were so rife throughout this country in those days.
Hence a feeling of violence grew up between the
Mormons and "anti-Mormons." In the State of
Missouri the Mormons always supported the Dem-
ocracy until they were driven out by the Democratic
government, when they turned their support to the
Whigs. They were becoming numerous, and in the
Legislature of 1840- 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 daring to
oppose) a charter for the city of Nauvoo which vir-
tually erected a hierarchy co-ordinate with the Fed-
Jgral^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 tti3
writ, but for some reason it was returned unserved.
It was again issued in 1842, and Smith was arrested,
but was either rescued by his followers or discharged
by the municipal court on a writ of habeas corpus.

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

At the close of his gubernatorial term, Mr. Carlin
removed back to his old home at Carrollton, where
he spent the remainder of his life, as before his ele-
vation to office, in agricultural pursuits. In 1849
he served out the unexpired term of J. D. Fry in the
Illinois House of Representatives, and died Feb. 4,
1852, at his residence at Carrollton, leaving a wife
a id seven children.

UBRAflV

Of THE

UNIVERSITY Of ILUNOIJ

'ft-tOTs&^d

GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

139

*■ ^i43d|i

i^-^^p :"• A A A A A-A^A.A A A.A.A A A ;'. A :-. A A A AAA A A.AA A .A-AAA..". A, A A A A, A A A A A . . A A A A --f ■:r i£ ^

if&EV—^'

^3=H=

=H=e^

gHOMAS FORD, Governor
from 1842 to 1846, and au-
thor of a very interesting
history of Illinois, was born
at Uniontown, Pa., in the
year 1 800. His mother, after
the death of her first hus-
band (Mr. Forquer), married Rob-
ert Ford, who was killed in 1802,
by the Indians in the mountains
of Pennsylvania. She was conse-
quently left in indigent circum-
stances, with a large family, mostly
girls. With a view to better her
condition, she, in 1804, removed to
Missouri, where it had been cus-
tomary by the Spanish Govern-
ment to give land to actual settlers; but upon her
arrival at St. Louis she found the country ceded to
the United States, and the liberal policy toward set-
tlers changed by the new ownership. After some
sickness to herself and family, she finally removed to
Illinois, and settled some three miles south of Water-
loo, but the following year moved nearer the Missis-
sippi bluffs. Here young Ford received his first

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 endowments, joined to energy
and determination of character. She inculcated in
her children those high-toned principles which dis-
tinguished her sons in public life. She exercised a
rigid economy to provide her children an education;
but George Forquer, her oldest son (six years older
than Thomas Ford), at an early age had to quit
school to aid by his labor in the support of the family.
He afterward became an eminent man in Illinois
affairs, and but for his early death would 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 for 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
I county of Cook was named. Through the advice of

140

THOMAS FORD.

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

In rS2Q Gov. Edwards appointed him 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, without opposition, twice a
Circuit Judge, o ice a Judge of Chicago, and as As-
sociate Judge of the Supreme Court, when, in 1841,
the latter tribunal was re-organized by the addition
of five Judges, all Democrats. Ford was assigned to
the Ninth Judicial Circuit, and while in this capacity
ne was holding Court in Ogle County he received a
notice of his nomination by the Democratic Conven-
tion for the office of Governor. He immediately re-
signed his place and entered upon the canvass. In
August, 1842, he was elected, and 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 Jefferson-
jan principle, — Never to ask and never to refuse
office. Both as a lawyer and as a Judge he stood
deservedly 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
practice, he was a stranger to the tact, skill and in-
sinuating address of the politician, but he saw through
the 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 lo be a seeker for the position of door-
keeper, and was waited upon at his hotel near mid-
night by a knot of small office-seekers with the view
of effecting a " combination ! "

Mr. Ford had not the " brass " of the ordinary
politician, nor that impetuosity which characterizes a
political leader. He cared little for money, and
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 one
side, and a small mouth.

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

In the first of these the Governor proved himself
*x> be eminently wise. On coming into office he found
the State badly paralyzed by the ruinous effects of
;r.e notorious "internal improvement" 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
"c^fft 6f"Nauvoo to the far West, etc. Having been a
Judge for so many years previously, Mr. Ford of
course was no i-committal concerning Mormon affairs,
and was therefore claimed by both parties and also
accused by each of sympathizing too greatly with the
other side. Mormonism claiming to be a system of
religion, the Governor no doubt was "between two
fires," and felt compelled to touch the matter rather
" gingerly," and doubdess felt greatly relieved when
that pestilential people left the State. Such compli-
cated matters, especially when religion is mixed up
with them, expose every person 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.

OF TVE
UNIVFRSITV Of r » I

GO VERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

143

I Augustus c. French. I

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UGUSTUS C. FRENCH,
Governor of Illinois from
1846 to 1852, was born in
the town of Hill, in the
State of New Hampshire,
Aug. 2, 1808. He was a
descendant in the fourth
generation of Nathaniel
French, who emigrated from England
in 1687 and settled in Saybury, Mass.
In early life young French lost his
father, but continued to receive in-
struction from an exemplary and
Christian mother until he was 19 years
old, when she also died, confiding to
his care and trust four younger broth-
ers and one sister. He discharged his trust with
parental devotion. His education in early life was
such mainly as a common school afforded. For a
brief period he attended Dartmouth College, but
from pecuniary causes and the care of his brothers
and sister, he did not graduate. He subsequently
read law, and was admitted to the Bar in 1831, and
shortly afterward removed to Illinois, settling first at
Albion, Edwards County, where he established him-
self in the practice of law. The following year he
removed to Paris, Edgar County. Here he attained
eminence in his profession, and entered public life
by representing that county in the Legislature. A
strong attachment sprang up between him and Ste-
phen A. Douglas.

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

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

The Democratic State Convention of 1846, meet-
ing at Springfield Feb. 10, nominated Mr. French
for Governor. Other Democratic candidates were
Lyman Trumbull, John Calhoun (subsequently of
Lecompton Constitution notoriety), Walter B. Scates,
Richard M. Young and A. W. Cavarly, — an array of
very able and prominent names. Trumbull was per-
haps defeated in the Convention by the rumor that
he was opposed to the Illinois and Michigan Canal,
as he had been a year previously. For Lieutenant
Governor j. B. Wells was chosen, while other candi-
dates were Lewis Ross, Win. McMurlry, Newton
Cloud, J. B. Hamilton and W. W. Thompson. The
resolutions declared strongly against the resuscita-
tion of the old State Banks.

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

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

144

AUGUSTUS C. FRENCH.

By the new Constitution of 1848, a new election for
State officers was ordered in November of that year,
before Gov. French's term was half out, and he was
re-elected for the term of four years. He was there-
fore the incumbent for six consecutive years, the
only Governor of this State who has ever served in
that capacity so long at one time. As there was no
organized opposition to his election, he received 67,-
453 votes, to 5,639 for Pierre Menard (son of the
first Lieutenant Governor), 4,748 for Charles V.
Dyer, 3/S34 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 Mexican War, which closed
during the summer of 1847, although the treaty of
Guadalupe Hidalgo was not made until Feb. 2,
1848. The policy of Gov. French's party was com-
mitted to that war, but in connection with that affair
he was, of course, only an administrative officer.
During his term of office, Feb. 19, 1847, the Legisla-
ture, by special permission of Congress, declared 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 time, the distribution of Government
.'and warrants among the Mexican soldiers as bounty
threw upon the market a great quantity of good
lands, and this enhanced the settlement of the State.
The same Legislature authorized, with the recom-
mendation of the Governor, the sale of the Northern
Cross Railroad (from Springfield to Meredosia, the
first in the State and now a section of the Wabash,
St. Louis & Pacific). It sold for $100,000 in bonds,
although it had cost the State not less than a million.
The salt wells and canal lands in the Saline reserve
in Gallatin County, granted by the general Govern-
ment to the State, were also authorized by the
Governor to be sold, to apply on the State debt. 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 the
population 851,47.-).

In 1S49 the Legislature adopted the township or-
ganization law, which, however, proved defective,
and was properly amended in 185 1. At its session
in the latter year, the General Assembly also passed
a law to exempt homesteads from sale on executions
This beneficent measure had been repeatedly urged
upon that body by Gov. French.

In 1850 some business men in St. Louis com-
menced to build a dike opposite the lower part of
their city on the Illinois side, to keep the Mississippi
in its channel near St. Louis, instead of breaking
away from them as it sometimes threatened to do.
This they undertook without permission from the
Legislature or Executive authority of this State ; and
as many of the inhabitants thera complained that
the scheme would inundate and ruin much valuable
land, there was a slight conflict of jurisdictions, re-
; suiting 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 1851 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 complexioned, with ruddy face
and pleasant countenance. In manners he was
plain and agreeable. By nature he was somewhat
diffident, but he was often very outspoken in his con-
victions of duty. In public speech he was not an
orator, but was chaste, earnest and persuasive. In
business he was accurate and methodical, and in his
administration he kept up the credit of the State.

He died in 1865, at his home in Lebanon, St
Clair Co., HI.

IIBRART
Of THE
UN'YH?S|TV o c i'

GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

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l.OEL A. MATTESON, Governor

1853-6, was born Aug. 8, 1808,
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,
taught school, visited the prin-
cipal Eastern cities, improved a farm his father had
given him, made a tour in the South, worked there
in 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 father's home, when he mar-
ried. In 1833, having sold his farm, he removed,
with his wife and one child, to Illinois, and entered
a claim on Government land near the head of Au
Sable River, in what is now Kendall County. At
that time there were not more than two neighbors
within a range of ten miles of his place, and only
diree or four houses between him and Chicago. He
opened a large farm. His family was boarded 12

miles away while he erected a house 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 rS35 he bought largely at the Government land
sales. During the speculative real-estate mania which
brokeoutin Chicagoin r836 and spread over the State,
he sold his lnnds under the inflation of that period
and removed to Joliet. In 1838 he became a heavy
contractor on the Illinois & Michigan Canal. Upon
the completion of his job in i84r, when hard times
prevailed, business at a stand, contracts paid in State
scrip; when all the public works except the canal
were abandoned, the State offered for sale 700 tons
of railroad iron, which was purchased by Mr. Mat-
teson at a bargain. This he accepted, shipped and
sold at Detroit, realizing a very handsome profit,
enough to pay off all his canal debts and leave 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 r842 he was first elected a State Senator, but,
by a bungling apportionment, j'z in Pearson, a Senator
holding over, was found to be in the same districr,
and decided to be entitled to represent it. Mat-
te son's seat was declared vacant. Pearson, however
with a nobleness difficult to appreciate in this day of

143

JOEL A. MATTESON.

greed for office, unwilling to represent his district
under the circumstances, immediately resigned his
unexpired term of two years. A bill was passed in a
few hours ordering a new election, and in ten days'
time Mr. Matteson was relumed re-elected and took
his seat as Senator. From his well-known capacity
as a business man, he was made Chairman of the
Committee on Finance, a position he held during
this half and two full succeeding Senatorial terms,
discharging its 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. Thus he showed himself a most
energetic and thorough business man.

He was nominated for Governor by the Demo-
cratic State Convention which met at Springfield
April 20, rS52. 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 v °tes at
the election, while Mr. Webb received 64,408. Mat-
teson's forte was not on the stump; he had not cul-
tivated the art of oily flattery, or the faculty of being
all things to all men. His intellectual qualities took
rather the direction of efficient executive ability. His
turn consisted not so much in the adroit manage-
ment of party, or the powerful advocacy of great gov-
ernmental principles, as in those more solid and
enduring operations which cause the physical devel-
opment and advancement of a State, — of commerce
and business enterprise, into which he labored with
success to lead the people. As a politician he was
just and liberal in his views, and both in official and
private life he then stood untainted and free from
blemish. As a man, in active benevolence, social
virtues 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
1S54, 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
Lincoln was brought forward as the "Anti-Nebraska"
candidate for the United States Senatorship, while
Gen. James Shields, the incumbent, was re-nom-
inated by the Democrats. But after a fewballotings
in the Legislature (1855), these men were dropped,
and Lyman Trumbull, an Anti-Nebraska Democrat,
was brought up by the former, and Mr. Matteson,
then Governor, by the latter. On the nth ballot
M.r.' Trumbull obtained one majority, and was ac-
cordingly declared elected. Before Gov. Matteson's
term expired, the Republicans were fully organized
as a national party, and in 1856 put into the field a
full national and State ticket, carrying the State, but
not the nation.

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

During the four years of Gov. Matteson's admin-
istration the taxable wealth of the State was about
trebled, from $137,818,079 to $349,95 1,272 ; the pub-
lic debt was reduced from $17,398,985 to $12,843,-
r44; 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 serin, 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 ^72-3, at Chicago.

IJBRARY
Of THE

} ^L^U2£_

GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

J5 1

IH1

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ILLIAM H. BISSELL, Gov-
ernor 1857-60, was born
April 25, 1S11, 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 acquired for him a
ready local notoriety. It §0011 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,

'5 2

WILLIAM H. BISSELI.

of Monroe County, by whom he had two children,
both daughters. She died soon after the year 1840,
and Mr. B. married for his second wife a daughter
of Elias K. Kane, previously a United States Senator
from this State. She survived him 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 term, while the
Southern members were following their old practice
of intimidating the North by bullying language,
and claiming most of the credit for victories in the
Mexican War, and Jefferson Davis claiming for the
Mississippi troops all the credit for success at Buena
Vista, Mr. Bissell bravely defended the Northern
troops ; whereupon Davis challenged Bissell to a duel,
which was accepted. This matter was brought up
against Bissell when he was candidate for Governor
and during his term of office, as the Constitution of
this State forbade any duelist from holding a State
office.

In 1856, when the Republican party first put forth
a candidate, John C. Fremont, for President of the
United States, the same party nominated Mr. Bissell
for Governor of Illinois, and John Wood, of Quincy,
for Lieutenant Governor, while the Democrats nomi-
nated Hon. W. A. Richardson, of Adams County,
for Governor, and Col. R. J. Hamilton, of Cook
County, for Lieutenant Governor. The result of th§

election was a plurality of 4.7 2 9 votes over Richard-
son. The American, or Know-Nothing, party had a
ticket in the field. The Legislature was nearly bal-
anced, but was politically opposed to the Governor.
His message to the Legislature was short and rather
ordinary, and was criticised for expressing the sup-
posed obligations of the people to the incorporators
of the Illinois Central Railroad Company and for re-
opening the slavery question by allusions to the
Kansas troubles. Late in the session an apportion-
ment bill, based upon the State census of 1855, was
passed, amid much partisan strife. The Governor
at first signed the bill and then vetoed it. A furious
debate followed, and the question whether the Gov-
ernor had the authority to recall a signature was
referred to the Courts, that of last resort deciding in
favor of the Governor. Two years afterward another
outrageous attempt was made for a re-apportionment
and to gerrymander the State, but the Legislature
failedYo pass the bill over the veto of the Governor.
It was during Gov. Bissell's administration that
the notorious canal scrip fraud was brought to light,
implicating 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 48 years. He
died in the faith of the Roman Catholic Church, of
which he har\ been a member since 1854,

LIBRARY
OF THE
UNIVERSITY P c ILUN

•:

GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

•55

#-#

p- : OHN WOOD, Governor 1 860-1, and
[$&* the first settler of Quincy, 111.,
was born in the town of Sempro-
nius (now Moravia), Cayuga Co.,
N. Y., Dec. 20, 1798. He was
the second child and only son of
Dr. Daniel Wood. His mother,
nee Catherine Crause, was of
German parentage, and died
while he was an infant. Dr.
Wood was a learned and skillful
physician, of classical attain-
ments and proficient in several
modern languages, who, after
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-
ing 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 182 1 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,

18 x 20 feet, the first building in Quincy > of which
he then became the first and for some months the
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 yet
untouched by the hand of man. Before them swept
by the majestic Father of Waters, yet unburdened by
navigation. After Mr. Wood had expatiated at
length on the advantages of the situation, Mr. Ross
replied, "But it's too near Atlas ever to amount to
anything!"

Atlas is still a cultivated farm, and Quincy is 3
city of over 30,000 population.

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

'5°

JOHN WOOD.

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

He was one of the early town Trustees, and after
the place became a city he was often a member of
the City Council, many times elected Mayor, in the
face of a constant large opposition political majority.
In 1850 he was elected to the State Senate. In 1856,
on the organization of the Republican party, he was
chosen Lieutenant Governor of the State, on the
ticket with Win. 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
Illinoisan, 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 nation from destruction.

In 186 1 ex-Gov. Wood was one of the five Dele-
gates from Illinois to the " Peace Convention " at
Washington, 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
0:1 the "Bluffs," with no family, and no neighbor
within a score of miles, the world of civilization away
behind him, and the strolling red-man almost his
only visitant, he lived to see growing around him,
and under his auspices and aid, overspreading the
wild hills and scraggy forest a teaming city, second
only in size in the State, and surpassed nowhere in
beauty, prosperity and promise; whose people recog-
nize as with a single voice the proverbial honor and
liberality that attach to the name and lengthened
life of their pioneer settler, "the old Governor."

Gov. Wood was twice married, — first in January,
1826, to Ann M. Streeter, daughter of Joshua Streeter,
formerly of Salem, Washington Co., N. Y. They had
eight children. Mrs. W. died Oct. 8, 1863, and in
June, 1865, Gov. Wood married Mrs. Mary A., widow
of Rev. Joseph T. Holmes. Gov. Wood died June 4,
1880, at his residence in Quincy. Four of his eight
children are now living, namely: Ann E., wife of
Gen. John Tillson; Daniel C, who married Mary J.
Abernethy; John, Jr., who married Josephine Skinner,
and Joshua S., who married Annie Bradley. The
last mentioned now resides at Atchison, Kansas, and
all the rest are still at Quincy.

LIBRARY
OF THE
UNIVERSITY r-

GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

'Si

||i«flia^& ^alf£.

fffcPMCHARD YATES, the "War
Governor," 1861-4, was born
Jan. 18, 1818, on the banks of
the Ohio River, at Warsaw,
Gallatin Co., Ky. His lather
moved in 1831 to Illinois, and
after stopping for a time in
Springfield, settled at Island
Grove, Sangamon County. Here,
after attending school, Richard joined
the family. Subsequently he entered
Illinois College at Jacksonville,
where, in 1837, he graduated with
first honors. He chose for his pro-
fession the law, the Hon. J. J. Har-
din being his instructor. After ad-
mission to the Bar he soon rose to distinction as an
advocate.

Gifted with a fluent and ready oratory, he soon
appeared in the political hustings, and, being a
passionate admirer of the great Whig leader of the
West. Henry Clay, he joined his political fortunes to
he party of his idol. In 1 840 he engaged with great
mdor in the exciting " hard cider " campaign for
Harrison. 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-
ry that by 1850 his large Congressional District,
extending from Morgan and Sangamon Counties
forth to include LaSalle, unanimously tendered him
tne Whig nomination for Congress. His Democratic
opponent was Maj. Thomas L. Harris, a very pop-
v'ar man who had won distinction at the battle of
Cerro Gordo, in the Mexican War, and who had
aeaten Hon. Stephen T. Logan for the same position,

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

It was during Yates second term in Congress that
the great question of the repeal of the Missouri Com-
promise was agitated, and the bars laid down for re-
opening the dreaded anti-slavery question. He took
strong grounds against the repeal, and thus became
identified with the rising Republican party. Conse-
quently he fell into the minority in his district, which
was pro-slavery. Even then, in a third contest, he
fell behind Major Harris only zoo 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 Svvett, 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 whirlpool
which precipitated the bloody War of the Rebellion.
The Douglas Democrats nominated J. C. Allen cf
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 the former derived its sustenance
from the loyalty of the latter; and Gov. Yates
seemed to realize the situation, and proved himself
both loyal and wise in upholding the Government.
He had a deep hold upon the affections of the
people, won by his moving eloquence and genial
manners. Erect and symmetrical in person, of pre-
possessing appearance, with a winning address and a
magnetic power, few men possessed more of the ele-
ments of popularity. His oratory was scholarly and
captivating, his hearers hardly knowing why they
were transported. He was social and convivial. In
the latter respect he was ultimately carried too far.

The very creditable military efforts of this State
during the War of the Rebellion, in putting into the
field the enormous number of about 200,000 soldiers,
were ever promptly and ably seconded by his excel-
lency ; and the was ambitious to deserve the title of
"the soldier's friend." Immediately after the battleof
Shiloh he repaired to the field of carnage to look
after the wounded, and his appeals for aid were
promptly responded to by the people. His procla-
mations calling for volunteers were impassionate
appeals, urging upon the people the duties and re-
quirements of patriotism; and his special message
in 1863 to the Democratic Legislature of this State
pleading for material aid for the sick and wounded
soldiers of Illinois regiments, breathes a deep fervor
of noble sentiment and feeling rarely equaled in
beauty or felicity of expression. Generally his mes-
sages on political and civil affairs were able and com-
prehensive. During his administration, however,
there were no civil events of an engrossing character,
although two years of his time were replete with
partisan quarrels of great bitterness. Military ar-
rests, Knights of the Golden Circle, riot in Fulton
County, attempted suppression of the Chicago Times
and the usurping State Constitutional Convention of
1862, were the chief local topics that were exciting
during the Governor's term. This Convention assem-
bled Jan. 7, and at once took the high position that
*he law calling it was no longer binding, and that it
l'.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-establishmentof one for the "happiness,
prosperity and freedom of the citizens," limited only
by the Federal Constitution. Notwithstanding the
law calling the Convention required its members to
take an oath to support the Constitution of the State
as well as that of the general Government, they
utterly refused to take such oath. They also as-
sumed legislative powers and passed several import-
ant "laws!" Interfering with the (then) present
executive duties, Gov. Yates was provoked to tell
them plainly that " he did not acknowledge the right
of the Convention to instruct him in the performance
of his duty."

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

During the autumn of 1864 a conspiracy was de-
tected at Chicago which had for its object the liber-
ation of the prisoners of war at Camp Douglas, the
burning of the city and the inauguration of rebellion
in the North. Gen. Sweet, who had charge of the
camp at the time, first had his suspicions of danger
aroused by a number of enigmatically worded letters
which passed through the Camp postofifice. A de-
tective afterward discovered that the rebel Gen.
Marmaduke was in the city, under an assumed
name, and he, with other rebel officers — Grenfell,
Morgan, Cantrell, Buckner Morris, and Charles
Walsh — was arrested, most of whom were convicted
by a court-martial at Cincinnati and sentenced to
imprisonment, — Grenfell to be hung. The sentence
of the latter was afterward commuted to imprison-
ment for life, and all the others, after nine months'
imprisonment, were pardoned.

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

■

imikfcf

Of THE

GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

•63

Michard J. Ogles

— "j-

«M«

TCHARD J. OGLESBY, Gov-
ernor 1865-8, and re-elected
in 1S72 and 1884, was born
July 25, 1824, in Oldham Co.,
Ky., — the State which might
g;.x, 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 lie 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 Cruz 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 the leader.

In 1852 he returned home to Macon County, and
was placed that year by the Whig party on the ticket
of Presidential Electors. In 1856 he visited Europe,
Asia 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 no ninee for the
Lower House of Congress, but was defeated by the
Hon. James C. Robinson, Democrat. In i860 he
was elected to the Illinois State Senate ; and on the
evening the returns of this election were coming in.
Mr. Oglesby had a fisticuff encounter with " Cerro
Gordo Williams," in which he came out victorious,
and which was regarded as " the first fight of the
Rebellion." The following spring, when the war
had commenced in earnest, his ardent nature
quickly responded to the demands of patriotism and
he enlisted. The extra session of the Legislature
elected him Colonel of the Eighth Illinois Infantry,
the second one in the State raised to suppress the
great Rebellion.

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

164

RICHARD J. OGLESBY.

mediate death. That rebel ball he carries to this
day. On his partial recovery he was promoted as
Major General, for gillantry, his commission to rank
from November, 1862. In the spring of 1863 he
was assigned to the command of the 16th Army
Corps, but, owing to inability from 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 follow-
ing, to court-martial and try the Surgeon General of
the Army at Washington, where he remained until
May, 1864, when he returned home.

The Republican, or Union, State Convention of

1864 was held at Springfield, May 25, when Mr.
Oglesby was nominated for the office of Governor,
while other candidates before the Convention were
Allen C. Fuller, of Boone, Jesse K. Dubois, of Sanga-
mon, and John M. Palmer, of Macoupin. Wm.
Bross, of Chicago, was nominated for Lieutenant
Governor. On the Democratic State ticket were
James C. Robinson, of ("lark, for Governor, and S.
Corning Judd, of Fulton, for Lieutenant Governor.
The general election gave Gen. Oglesby a majority-'
of about 3t,ooo votes. The Republicans had also a
majority in both the Legislature and in the repre-
sentation in Congress.

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

The political events of the Legislative session of

1865 were the election of ex-Gov. Yates to the
United States Senate, and the ratification of the 13th
amendment to the Constitution of the United States,
abolishing slavery. This session also signalized
itself by repealing the notorious " black laws," part
of which, although a dead letter, had held their place
upon the statute books since 1819. Also, 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 extended 99 years. As this measure
was promptly passed over his veto by both branches
of the Legislature, he deemed it useless further to
attempt to check their headlong career. At this
session no law of a general useful character or public
interest was perfected, unless we count such the
turning over of the canal to Chicago to be deepened.
The session of 1867 was still more productive of
private and special acts. Many omnibus bills were
proposed, and some passed. The contests over the
vocation of the Industrial College, the Capital, the

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

Daring the year 1872, it became evident that i(
the Republicans could re-elect Mr. Oglesby to the
office of Governor, they could also elect him to the
United States Senate, which they desired to do.
Accordingly they re-nominated him for the Execu-
tive chair, and placed upon the ticket with him for
Lieutenant Governor, John L. Beveridge, of Cook
County. On the other side the Democrats put into
the field Gustavus Koerner for Governor and John
C. Black for Lieutenant Governor. The election
gave the Republican ticket majorities ranging from
35,334 to 56,174, — the Democratic defection being
caused mainly by their having 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 met
it elected Gov. Oglesby to the United States Senate,
whereupon Mr. Beveridge became Governor. Sena-
tor Oglesby 's term expired March 4, 1879, having
i ser.ved his party faithfully and exhibited an order of
statesmanship beyond criticism.

During the campaign of 1884 Mr. Oglesby was
nominated for a "third term" as Executive of the
State of Illinois, against Carter H. Harrison, Mayor
of Chicago, nominated by the Democrats. Both
gentlemen "stumped " the State, and while the peo-
ple elected a Legislature which was a tie on a joint
ballot, as between the two parties, they gave the
jovial " Dick" Oglesby a majority of 15,018 for Gov-
ernor, and he was inaugurated Jan. 30, 1885. The
Legislature did not fully organize until this date, on
account of its equal division between the two main
parties and the consequent desperate tactics of each
party 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 weL
calculated favorably to impress the average masses.
Ardent in feeling and sirongly committed to the pol-
icies of his party, he intensifies Republicanism
among Republicans, while at the same time his jovial
and liberal manner prevents those of the opposite
party from hating him.

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

IffiRARV

OF THE

WUVERSITV p«r i n«

Sl^^cl^

GO FERiVORS OF ILLINOIS.

John ML Pal web

•Ji^

^, • — -«— 4 — *swi

|;OHN Mc AULEY PALMER, Gov-
ernor 1869-72, was born on
Eagle Creek, Scott Co., Ky .,
Sept. 13, 1817. During his in-
j" fancy, his father, who had been
a soldier in the war of 18 12, re-
moved to Christian Co., Ky.,
where lands were cheap. Here
the future Governor of the great
Prairie State spent his 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 1831
he emigrated to Illinois, settling in Madison County.
Here the labor of improving a farm was pursued for
about two years, when the death of Mr. Palmer's
mother broke up the family. About this time Alton
College was opened, on the "manual labor " system,
and in the spring of 1834 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 Stephen A. Douglas, then making his

early 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-
linville, 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 wou'd have located elsewhere than Carlinville
had he the requisite means. Thus his early poverty
was a blessing in disguise, for to it he now attributes
the success of his life.

From 1839 on, while he diligently pursued his
profession, he participated more or less in local
politics. In 1843 he became Probate Judge. Ip
1847 he was elected to the State Constitutional Con
vention, where he took a leading part. In 1852 he,
was elected to the State Senate, and at the special
session of February, 1854, true to the anti-slaver)
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 part]
issue he refused to receive a re-nomination for tin
Senatorship at the hands of the Democracy, issuing
a circular to that effect. A few weeks afterward.

JOHN MC A U LEV 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 1S56 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
ne was appointed one of the five Delegates (all Re-
publicans) sent by Illinois to the peace congress at
Washington.

When the civil conflict broke out, he offered his
services to his country, and was elected Colonel of the
J4th 111. Vol. Inf., and participated in the engagements''
at Island No. 10 ; at Farmington, where he skillfully
extricated his command from a dangerous position ;
at Stone River, where his division for several hours,
Dec. 31, 1862, held the advance and stood like a
rock, and for his gallantry there he was made Major
General; at 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 which he was vested in his capacity as
military Governor; and he exhibited great caution in
the execution of the duties of his post.

Gen. Palmar was nominated for Governor of Illi-
nois by the Republican State Convention which met
at Peoria May 6, 1868, and his nomination would
probably have been made by acclamation had he not
persistently declared that he could not accept 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.

On the meeting of the Legislature in January,
1869, the first thing to arrest public attention was
that portion of the Governor's message which took
broad Slate's rights ground. This and some minor
points, which were more in keeping with the Demo-
cratic sentiment, constituted the e itering 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 limited
railroad charges for passenger travel to a maximum
of three cents per mile ; and it was passed over the
Governor's veto. Also, they passed, over his veto,
t)ie "tax-grabbing law" to pay r^.ilror.i subscriptions,
the Chicago Lake Front bill, etc. The riew State'
"CcAVstrrutibn 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, 1871, 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 American in his fundamental principle*
of statesmanship.

JJBRARY
OF THE
UNIVERSITY f c s

GU VERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

i7»

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OHN LOWRiE BEVER-
IDGE, Governor 1873-6, was
born in the town of Green-
wich, 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 brothers, 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
:[G Washington Co., N. Y., with their
first-bom, whose " native land " was
the wild ocean. His parents and
grandparents lived beyond the time
allotted to man, 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, his parents and brothers
were anxious to have him go to college, even though
he had not money sufficient; but, njt willing to bur-
den the family, he packed his trunk and with only
$40 in money started South to seek his fortune

r 7 2

JOHN L. BEVERIDGE.

Toor, alone, without friends and influence, he thus
entered upon the battle of life.

First, he taught school in Wilson, Overton and
Jackson Cos., Tenn., in which experience he under-
went considerable mental drill, both in book studies
and in the ways of the world. He read law and was
admitted to the Bar, in the South, but did not learn
to love the institution of slavery, although he ad-
mired many features of Southern character. In De-
cember, 1847, he returned North, and Jan. 20, 1848,
he married Miss Helen M. Judson, in the old Clark-
Street M. E. church in Chicago, her father at that
time being Pastor of the society there. In the spring
of 1848 he returned with his wife to Tennessee,
where his two children, Alia May and Philo Judson,
were born.

In the fall of 1849, through the mismanagement
of an associate, he lost what little 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
i'aw, worked in public offices, kept books for some of
the business men of the town, and some railroad en-
gineering, till the spring of 1854, when he removed
to Evanston, 12 miles north of Chicago, a place then
but recently laid out, under the supervision of the
Northwestern University, a Methodist institution.
Of the latter his father-in-law was then financial
agent and business manager. Here Mr. Beveridge
prospered, and the next year (1855) opened a law
office in Chicago, where he found the battle some-
what hard; but he persevered with encouragement
and increasing success.

Aug. 12, 1 861, his law partner, Gen. John F.
Farnsworth, secured authority to raise a regiment of
cavalry, and authorized Mr. Beveridge to raise a
company for it. He succeeded in a few days in rais-
ing the company, of course enlisting himself along
with it. The regiment rendezvoused at St. Charles,
111., was mustered in Sept. 1 S, and on its organiza-
tion Mr. B. was elected Second Major. It was at-
tached, Oct. ir, to the Eighth Cavalry and to the
Army of the Potomac. He served with the regiment
until November, 1863, participating in some 40 bat-

tles and skirmishes : was at Fair Oaks, the seven days
' fight around Richmond, Fredericksburg, Chancellors-
ville and Gettysburg. He commanded the regiment
the greater part of the summer of 1863, 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 mar. than when he first enlisted. His men
idolized him.

' "'. He then returned to Chicago, to practice law, with
no library and no clientage, and no political experi-
ence except to help others into office. In the fall of
1S66 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, 1872, he was elected Lieutenant Gov-
ernor on the ticket with Gov. Oglesby; the latter be-
ing elected to the U. S. Senate, Mr. Beveridge became
Governor, Jan. 21, 1873. Thus, inside of a few
weeks, he was Congressman at large, Lieutenant
Governor and Governor. The principal events oc-
curring during Gov. Beveridge 's administration were:
The completion of the revision of the statutes, begun
in 1869; the partial success of the "farmers' move-
ment;" " Haines' Legislature " and Illinois' exhibit at
the Centennial.

Since the close of his gubernatorial term ex-Gov
Beveridge has been a member of the firm of Bever-
idge & Dewey, bankers and dealers in commercial
paper at 7 1 Dearborn Street (McCormick Block),
Chicago, and since November, 1881, he has also been
Assistant United States Treasurer - office in the
Government Building. His residence is still at Ev-
anston.

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

i/BBARY

OF THE

UNIVERSITV f^ i

GO VERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

175

^"^jftl

I^L^fe

Sbelb y M. Cullom.

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C=L)2=I

HELBY M. CULLOM, Gover-
nor 1S77— S3, is the sixth child
of the late Richard N. Cullom,
and was born Nov. 22, 1829, in
Wayne Co., Ky., where his fa-
ther then 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
capital from Vandalia to Springfield. 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 teachioo school-

and in the following summer he "broke prairie "with
an ox team for the 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 oat-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 Anti-Nebraska ticket.

In 1856 he ran on the Fillmore ticket as a Presi-
dential Elector, and, although failing to be elected as
such, he was at the same time elected a Representa-
tive in the Legislature from Sangamon County, by a
local coalition of the American and Republican par-
tics. On the organization of the House, he received
the vote of the Fillmore men for Speaker. Practicir^

176

SHELB V 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 1S61, 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. In
1862 he was a candidate for the State Senate, but
was defeated. The same year, however, he was ap-
pointed by President Lincoln on a Government
Commission, in company with Gov. Boutwell of
Massachusetts and Cnarles A. Dana, since of the
New York Sun, to investigate the affairs of the
Quartermaster's and Commissary Departments at
Cairo. He devoted several months to this duty.

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

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

The Republican Convention which met May 25,
1876, nominated Mr. Cullom for Governor, while the
other contestant was Gov. Beveridge. For Lieuten-
ant-Governor they nominated Andrew Shuman, editor
of the Chicago Journal. For the same offices the
Democrats, combining with the Anti-Monopolists,
olac&d 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 314.5651 to 277,532 for the Democratic State
ticket. The Greenback vote at the same time was
about 27,000. Both Houses of the Legislature again
became Republican, and no representative of the
Greenback or Socialist parties were elected. Gov.
Cullom was inaugurated Jan. 10, 1S81. In his mes-
sage he announced that the last dollar of the State
debt had been provided for.

March 4, 1883, the term of David Davis as United
States Senator from Illinois expired, and Gov. Cul-
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,
t-j Julia Fisher. Mrs. C is a member of the Method-
ist Episcopal Church, with which religious body Mr.
C. is also in sympathy,

IJBRARY

OF THE
UN1VER8»TV f - ;

GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

'79

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^#-£-*e=

OHN MARSHALL HAMIL-
TON, Governor 1883—5, was
born May 28, 1847, in a log
house upon a farm about two
miles from Richwood, Union
County, Ohio. His father was
Samuel Hamilton, the eldest son
( I Rev. Wm. Hamilton, who, to-
gether with his brother, the Rev.
Samuel Hamilton, was among the
early pioneer Methodist preachers in
Ohio. The mother of the subject of
this sketch was, before her marriage,
Mrs. Nancy 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 home in Union County, O.,
and, loading his few household effects and family
(of six children) into two emigrant covered wagons,
moved to Roberts Township, Marshall Co., 111., being
21 days on the route. Swamps, unbridged streams
and innumerable hardships and privations met them
on their way. Their new home had been previously
selected by the father. Here, after many long years
of toil, they succeeded in paying for the land and
making a com for' a' 1 '" home. John was, of course,

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

When the tremendous excitement of the political
campaign of i860 reached the neighborhood of Rob-
erts Township, young Hamilton, who had been
brought up in the doctrine of anti-slavery, took a zeal-
ous part in favor of Lincoln's election. Making special
efforts to procure a little money to buy a uniform, he
joined a company of Lincoln Wide-Awakes at Mag-
nolia, a village not far away. Directly after the
ensuing election it became evident that trouble
would ensue with the South, and this Wide-Awake
company, like many others throughout the country,
kept up its organization and transformed itself into a
military company. During the ensuing summer they
met often for drill and became proficient; but when
they offered themselves for the war, young Hamilton
was rejected on account of his youth, he being then
but 14 years of age. During the winter of 1863-4 lie
attended an academy at Henry, Marshall County ;

t8o

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, Mr. Hamilton taught
school, and during the two college years 1865-7, he
went through three years of the curriculum of the
Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware, Ohio. The
third year he graduated, the fourth in a class of 46,
in the classical department. In due time he received
the degree of M. A. For a few months he was the
Principal of Marshall " College " at Henry, an acad-
emy under the auspices of the M. E. Church. By
this time he had commenced the study of law, and
after earning some money as a temporary Professor
of Latin at the Illinois Wesleyan University at.
B'.oomington, he entered the law office of Weldon u ^
Tipton & Benjamin, of that city. Each member of
this firm has since been distinguished as a Judge.
Admitted to the Bar in May, 1870, Mr. Hamilton
was given an interest in the same firm, Tipton hav-
ing been elected Judge. In October following he
formed a partnership with J. H. Rowell, at that time
Prosecuting Attorney. Their business was then
small, but they increased it to very large proportions,
practicing in all grades of courts, including even the
U. S. Supreme Court, and this partnership continued
unbroken until Feb. 6, 1883, when Mr. Hamilton
was sworn in as Executive of Illinois. On the 4th
of March following Mr. Rowell took his seat in Con-
gress.

In July, 187 1, Mr. Hamilton married Miss Helen
M. Williams, the daughter of Prof. Win. 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 his party, and was
elected by a majority of 1,640 over his Democratic-
Greenback opponent. In the Senate he served on
the Committees on Judiciary, Revenue, State Insti-
tutions, Appropriations, Education, and on Miscel-
lany ; and during the contest for the election of a
U. S. Senator, the Republicans endeavoring to re

elect John A. Logan, he voted for the war chiet 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 Judgf
D.ivid Davis. At this session, also, was passed the
first Board of Health and Medical Practice act, of
which Mr. Hamilton was a champion, again:' .
much opposition that the bill was several times
" laid on the table." Also, this session authorized
the location and establishment of a southern pel
tentiary, which was fixed at Chester. In l\<2 session
of 1879 Mr. Hamilton was elected President/™ (em.
of the Senate, and was a zealous supporter of John
A. Logan for the U. S. Senate, who wan this time
elected without any trouble.

.In May, 1880, Mr. Hamilton was nominated on
the Republican ticket for Lieutenant Governor, his
principal competitors before the Convention being
How. Wm. A. James, ex-Speaker of the House of
.-Representatives, Judge Robert Bell, of Wabash
Colt rit'y;r Hon. T. T. Fountain, of Perry County, and
Hon. M. M. Saddler, cf 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 111
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-licens2
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 at Governor expired Ja;:. 30.

1885, when the great favorite "Dick" Oglesby was

inaugurated.

IJBRARY

OF THE

UNIVERSfTV f ^ )

1/ *i-^U^

GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

183

-o*o.-@^AxJ@-o«o..

JOSEPH WILSON FIFER. This
distinguished gentleman was
\$&w elected Governor of Illinois
November 6, 1888. He was
popularly known during the
campaign as "Private Joe." He
had served with great devotion
to his country during the Re-
bellion, in the Thirty-third
Illinois Infantry. A native of
Virginia, he was born in 1840.
His parents, John and Mary
(Daniels) Fifer, were American
born, though of German de-
scent. His father was a brick
and stone mason, and an old
Henry Clay Whig in politics. John and Mary
Fifer had nine children, of whom Joseph was the
sixth, and naturally with so large a family it was
all the father could do to keep the wolf from the
door; to say nothing of giving his children any-
thing like good educational advantages.

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

Our subject was sixteen then and suffered a great
misfortune in the loss of his mother. After the death
of Mrs. Fifer. which occurred in Missouri, the
family returned to Virginia, but remained only a
short time, as during the same year Mr. Fifer
came to Illinois. He settled in McLean County and
started a brickyard. Here Joseph and his broth-
ers were put to work. The elder Fifer soon
bought a farm near Bloomington and began life as
an agriculturalist. Here Joe worked and attended
the neighboring school. He alternated farm-work,
brick-laying, 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 glimpse
when coming from Virginia, yet he did not know
just how he was going to get out into it. He
could not feel that the woods around the new
farm and the log cabin, in which the family lived,
were to hold him.

The opportunity 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 Company C, 33d Illinois Infantry;
he being then twenty years old. In a few days

184

JOSEPH W. FIFER.

the regiment was sent to Camp Butler, and then
over into Missouri, and saw some vigorous service
there. After a second time helping to chase Price
out of Missouri, the 33d Regiment went down
to Milliken's Bend, and for several weeks " Private
Joe" worked on Grant's famous ditch. The regi-
ment then joined the forces operating against Port
Gibson and Vicksburg. Joe was on guard duty in
the front ditches when the flag of surrender was
run up on the 4th of July, and stuck the bayonet
of his gun into the embankment and went into the
city with the vanguard of Union soldiers.

The next day, July 5, 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 passed entirely through
his body. lie was regarded as mortally wounded.
Hii brother, George, who had been made a Lieu-
tenant, proved to be the means of saving his life.
TheSuTgeon told him unless he had ice his brother
Joe could not live. It was fifty miles to the nearesl
point where ice could be obtained, and the roads
were rough. A comrade, a McLean county man, who
had been wounded, offered to make the trip. An
ambulance was secured and the brother soldier
started on the journey. He returned with the ice,
but the ti'ip. owing to the roughness of the roads.
was very hard on him. After a few months' care-
fid 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 years. Ik-
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 mail 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-
ble him to enter school as most young men do.
He was determined to have an education, however,
and that to him meant success. For the following

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

Immediately after being graduated he entered
an office at Bloomington as a law student. He had
already read law some, and as he continued to work
hard, with the spur of poverty and promptings of
ambition ever witli him, he was ready to hang out
his professional shingle in 18G9. 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 County. This office
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
only 150 pounds. He has a swarthy complexion,
keen black eyes, quick movement, and possesses a
frank and sympathetic nature, and naturally makes
friends wherever he goes. During the late Guber-
natorial campaign his visits throughout the Statf
proved a great power in bis behalf. His happy
faculty of winning the confidence and good wishes
of those witli whom he comes in personal contact is a
sou ice of great popularity, especially 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
valuable campaign orator and a powerful pleader
at the bar. At the Republican State Convention.
held in May, 1888, Mr. Fifer was chosen as its candi-
date for Governor. He proved a popular nominee,
and the name of '• Private Joe " became familiar
to everyone 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.

TRANSPORTATION,

g^NE of the most important fac-
Wl tors in the business develop-
ment and prosperity of a

sf^ eitv, county or State, is its

railroad communications. A

retrospection of the history
of Macoupin County since the ad-
vent of railroad facilities, will con-
vince tlie careful observer of the
immense benefit resulting from Lhc
introduction of this essential adjunct
of commercial enterprise. The fol-
lowing brief sketches of the leading
railroads of this section of the great
commonwealth will form an interesting feature of
this Recokd. It may be remaiked in this connec-
tion that the roads referred to are not only the im-
portant corporations of Illinois, but stand among
the first in the Nation.

Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway,

OPULARLY known as the Santa Ke Route.
The initial lines of this great system were
first built from Atchison to Topeka, in
1869, and for many 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
young and growing State of Kansas, and in the
majority of instances preceding settlement and
civilization. This road was the first to penetrate
across the southern part of Colorado, via Pueblo
and Trinidad into New Mexico, until its lines pen-
etrated the old adobe town of Santa Fe, whose cit-
izens were half Spanish and half Mexican. As its
course penetrated the wilderness it sometimes fol-
lowed the old Santa Fe Trail-, and generally not far
distant at any time from the "trail" which had
been made famous years before by trappers and
also by the Government freighters. The mar-
velous growth and development of the State of
Kansas is in a great measure due to the enterprise
and public spirit of the managers of the Santa Fe
System. Not only did they devote their energ} -
to the upbuilding of the road, but at great expense
they maintained emigration and Colonial agents in
the various countries of Europe, as well as in the
Eastern, Middle and Southern States, thereby ad-
vertising the Stale of Kansas as no other State has
heretofore been done. Its climate, its soil and
great advantages to the home seeker were at times
fully portrayed by the enterprise of this road —
every fostering care was given to the stock and
ranchmen, 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

TRANSPORTATION.

awake, enterprising and prosperous people. The
Santa Fe owns and operates more miies of road in
Kansas than any oilier line, with its vast system of
East and West, North and South lines reaching
every important town in the State, and penetrating
sixty-three 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 Coffey ville, 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 everj' important city in the State. St. Jo-
seph, on the Missouri side of the river, "has a popu
lation of nearly one hundred thousand, and its
wholesale 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 he,- thirty
thousand people, is an important manufacturing
center. Leavenworth was tiie earliest famous city
of Kansas, as it was the original outfitting point
for travel and traffic across the plains. The Kansas
s\stein may be described as a main east and wesl
line, over four hundred miles in length, with branch
lines extending in every direction where an area of
particularly rich country, or some other special
advantages invited a line of rails.

The road from Topeka, after 1869, was expended
west and south, and then east to Kansas City by
purchase of a line built by another company. From
Kansas City, in 1887-88, the line was extended to
Chicago, 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 company 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 its Southern terminals
Galveston, on the Gulf of Mexico, and El Paso, on
the Mexican frontier; and for its Western terminals
San Diego and Lof 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 City is practically 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, with its great steel works, and other manu-
facturing interests. The next important place is
Streator, a few miles south of the latter place; a
branch extends to the thriving city of Pekin, on
the Illinois River. From Streator the main line
crosses the Illinois at Cliillicothe, and extends
through Peoria and Knox Counties to the beauti-
ful and enterprising city of Galesburg, here it
ciimes m competition with several lines of the
Burlington System; thence running in southwest-
erly direction through a rich and populous section,
(•Kissing the Mississippi at Ft. Madison, on a mag-
nificent steel bridge. Here the company have
established shops, that being the terminus of the
two operating divisions of the road. From Ft.
Madison by a spur Keokuk is reached. The line
through .Missouri shows very heavy construction
woik. made to secure what was desired in the way
of distances 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 by a steel bridge, so
that the line enters Kansas City on the south side
of the river. From Kansas City to Topeka the
line runs on the South bank of the Kansas River:
at Wilder and Holliday are points for the depart-
ure of branch line — one northwest to Atchison,
and the other southwest through Ottawa anil South-
ern Kansas, being known as the Southern Kansas
division of the Santa Fe S\stem. From Lawrence
to Topeka the road is still in the Kansas Valley,
through a veritable garden. Native trees of great
height overhang the railway here and there, and in
the spring 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

TRANSPORTATION.

Santa Fe Company, across various broad streets to
a commodious brick station.

The genera] 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 seventy-five
miles in a southwesterly direction to the upper wa-
ters of Neosho River, at Emporia, passing through
Osage Count}', 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 city of importance
reached is Hutchinson; here are some of the heaviest
salt works in the United States, besides other ex-
tensive manufacturing interests. West of Hutch-
inson the line extends through a fertile, prosperous
and rapidly growing district. The line is beautified
here and there by many thriving cities and villages.
At La Junta, in Colorado, the line for New Mex-
ico. Arizona and beyond, turns south. Pueblo,
sixty-five miles due west of La Junta, for years the
terminus of the Santa Fe System, is a growing
manufacturing city. It is admirably located with
reference to the great ore-producing canons of Col-
orado. All roads leading to it, coal, iron, silver,
gold, lead, copper, building stone, everything in
fact which is produced in the greatest mining State
in the Union, roll naturally down hill to Pueblo.
Beyond Pueblo to the west are many thriving cities
founded on mining and agriculture, notably: Lead
ville, the greatest mining camp in Colorador while
forty miles north, on the line of the Santa Fe, are
the lovely villages of Colorado Springs and Mani-
tou, nestling at the foot of Pike's Peak. Manilou
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
Colorado Springs westward, through Manitou and
up the canon beyond Pike's Peak, the Colorado
Midland Railway is pushing its way far toward the
western borders of the State. Eighty miles north
of Colorado Springs the Santa Fe line terminates
at Denver, a magnificently built city of nearly
two hundred thousand people. It is probable
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 cast 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 years 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 Slock far Works, the Dodd & Whit-
aker meat-packing establishments. The city is
handsomely laid out, and has many handsome pub
lie buildings, commodious business houses and
spacious residences, situated on broad avenues,
lined with beautiful shade trees. South of Wichita
is a cluster of growing cities, comprising Winfield,
Wellington, Arkansas City and Caldwell. Wichita
and Arkansas City have profited 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, Pans, 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 parses through the impor-
tant Colorado towns of El Moro and Trinidad. The
village of Raton is an important division point for

TRANSPORTATION.

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 black
and rugged canons, until the valley of the Rio
Grande is reached. A branch line from Lainy 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 he 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 -aising and general commerce.
From Rincon 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
towns of Southern New Mexico. It. is the fortunate
destiny of New Mexico generally, and the Rio
Grande Valley particularly, to soon lake front rank
in the line of fruit production. The grapes 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 the Pacific Coast, i 1 the
heart of New Mexico, due west, the Atlantic &
Pacific Railroad forms the main Santa Fe Route to
California. The line passes through a great mining
and stock-raising country, where the climate is per-
fect. Prescott, the capital of Arizona, is reached
by a branch from Prescott Junction. Constant
changes of scenery characterize the line, and the
crossing of tiie 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 unequalled inducements
to the seeker after health, wealth and pleasure.
San Francisco and other cities of Central and
Northern California are reached by 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
lie apparent to the readi r that the line is admirably
situated, and that in many respects it occupies 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 he
in the future, in developing the localities through
which the various branches extend, and to build
up the permanent prosperity of the property whose
history is so closely interwoven with the settlement,
development and prosperity of the West beyond
the Missouri River. Its local traffic compares fa-
votably with that of other 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 the Missouri and Mis-
sissippi Valleys. 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-
way must materially make corresponding strides
toward attaining that proud financial position which
has been the life dream of its originators and pres-
ent owners. Under the present progressive and
conservative management, all advantages of geo-
graphical position, and all the resources of the
through line will be constantly utilized in building
up the future prosperity of the road itself, and in
developing the extended area of Chicago's com-
mercial supremacy. The Land Grant from the
Government amounted substantially to three mill-
ion acres. In brief its commanding geographical

TRANSPORTATION.

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.

The Wabash.

*- ^sO the public and our thousands of readers
n general : — It will no doubt be interesting
• to all if we give a brief description of this
road. The Wabash, as now known, has been oper-
ated under several names from time to time. It is
the offspring, as it were, of the first line of road
projected in Illinois, then known as the Northern
Cross Railroad, extending from Danville to Quincy.
This was chartered in 1837, and upon i v , the first
locomotive was placed in the winter of 1838-39,
running from Meredosia, on the Illinois River, to
Jacksonville. In 1842 the road was completed
from Jacksonville to .Springfield, and three trips
wore made per week. The track was of the old
Hat rail style, which was made by nailing thin strips

i of iron on two parallel lines of limbers placed at
the proper distance apart, and running lengthways

'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 rail-
road enterprises in Illinois. But in the West a
new era — one of prodigious industrial activity and

j far-reaching results in the practical arts — was dawn-
ing, and within thirty years of the temporary fail-

; ure of the road mentioned, Illinois had outstripped
all others in gigantic internal improvements, and
at present has more miles of railroad 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 North-
ern Cross Railroad, above mentioned, and traverses

Some of the finest portions of Illinois, Indiana and
Ohio. It soon became the popular highway of
I ravel 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 com-
panies now incorporated in the Wabash system.
The road takes its title from the river of that name,
a tributary of the Ohio, which in part separates the
States of Illinois and Indiana. In looking over the
map of the Wabash Railroad it will be Been 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
Western road. It was indeed a far-reaching sagac-
ity which consolidated these various lines into the
Wabash system, forming one immense chain of
great commercial activity and power. Its terminal
facilities are unsurpassed by any competing line.
Its home offices are established in commodious
quarters in St. Louis. The lines of the road are
co-extensive with the importance of the great trans-
portation facilities required for the products of the
Mississippi Valley. This line passes through the
States of Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio
and Michigan.

The various lines of road may be divided into
the following:

Miles.

St. Louis to Chicago 286

Toledo to Kansas City 602

St. Louis to Dea Moines 360

Logansport to Detroit 207

Chicago to Laketon Junction 123

Clayton to Keokuk 42

Bluffs to ( fcuincy 105

Streator to Forest 37

Attica to Covington 15

Champaign to Sidney 12

Edwardsville to Edwardsville

Crossing '■'

Bement to Altamont and Effingham 63

Brunswick to Omaha 225

Roseberry to Clarinda 21

Salisbury to Glasgow 15

Centralia to Columbia 22

Miles of main lines and branches. . 2204
From the above main line and branches as in-

TRANSPORTATION.

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, Quincy, St. Louis, Chi-
cago, Toledo and Detroit together with one contin-
uous line of steel rails. This road has an immense
freight traffic of the cereals, live-stock, various
productions and manufactured articles of the West
and the Stales through which it passes. Its facili-
ties for rapid transit for the vast productions of
the packing houses of Kansas City and St. Louis,
to Detroit, Toledo and the Eastern marls of trade,
is unequalled. A large portion of the grain pro-
ductions of Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri, Illi-
nois and Indiana, finds its way to the Eastern mar-
kets over the lines of this road. The Wabash 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 commen-
dation 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 various
lines and branches are substantial structures. The
depots, grounds and genual property of the road
are in good condition. The management of the
Wabash is fully abreast of the limes. The road
is progressive in every respect. The finest pas-
senger cars on the continent are run on its lines,
and every effort made to advance the interests <if
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 system, dining cars are
run.

Chicago & Alton Railroad.

bHLS road traverses some of the best territory
of Illinois and Missouri, with its western
terminus in Kansas City and southern in St.
Louis, and the principal terminus and headquarters
in Chicago. It is one of the most important roads
of the great system of railroads in the Mississippi
Valley. The air-line between St. Louis and Chi-
cago, the most prominent cities of the Great West,
and the most pronounced commercial rivals, occu-

pies a prominent position among the trans-Missis-
sjppi Railroads. This may be attributed partly to
the manner in which the management has fostered
and developed the local business along the line of
the road since its organization in 1862. Its man-
agement has always kept abreast of the times.

The length of the system is practically nine hun-
dred miles. In brief the Chicago & Alton Rail-
road has by a judicious system of permanent im-
provement, and by the introduction of modern
appliances which tend to the preservation of life
and property, placed itself in such a condition,
materia ly and physically, that its financial condi-
tion is not easily affected. 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 success may be attributed to its
admirable geographical location, embracing a very
rich section of the country for local traffic, and
with termini on Lake Michigan and the Mississippi
ami Missouri Rivers, yet equally as much is due to
the wisdom and stability of the management.

Chicago, Burlington «V Quincy Railroad.

f^p^HE Quincy & Louisiana branch of this ex-
///SS^ tensive system passes through a portion of
X \$S0' Pike County. It strikes the county at See-
horn, running in a southeasterly direction to Rock-
port, where it diverges in a southwesterly direction
to the Mississippi River, and crosses the Chicago
& Alton Railroad bridge to Louisiana, Mo. At
Hulls it crosses the Wabash Railroad. The prin-
cipal stations on this line in the county are New
Canton and Rockport. It furnishes an excellent
feeder for the system, and is an important auxiliary
to the transportation facilities for the people of the
west side of the county.

Els^-

Big Four,

ORMERLY known as Indiana & St. Louis
Railroad, is one of the Great Trunk lines of
the Mississippi and Ohio Valleys, connects
the four important cities of Cincinnati, Indianapo-

TRANSPORTATION.

lis, Chicago and St. Louis, and it affords direct
communication for the citizens of the south part
of Macoupin County, with these great marts of
trade as well as direct connection with the Vander-
bilt system leading to the seaboard. The road-bed

is well ballasted, and of a substantial character. The
rolling stock is first-class. The principal stations
in this county are Bunker Hill, Gillespie and Dor-
chester.

m r

£amupm {Q&unvvf^

inois*

INTRODUCTORY.

SHE 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,
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 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
leopie who contributed to raise this country from its
•rimitive state may be preserved. Surely and rapidly
lie great and aged men, who in their prime entered
he wilderness and claimed the virgin soil as their
leritage, aie passing 10 their graves. The number re-
naming who cm relate the incidents of the first days
if settlement is becoming small indeed, so that an
ictual necessity e\isis for the collection and preser-
ation of events without delay, before all the earlv
eltlers are cut dow.i by the scythe of Time.
To I ie forgotten has been the great dread of mankind
rom remotest ages. All will be forgotten soon enough,
it spite of their best works and the most earnest
floits of their friends to perserve the memory of
heir lives. The means employed to prevent oblivion
i id to perpetuate their memory has been in propor-
ion to the amount of intelligence they possessed.
I'll .' pyramids of Rgvpt were built to perpetuate the
lames and deeds of their great rulers. The exhu-
naiions made by the areheologists of Egypt from
juried 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-budders, in piling
up their great mounds of earth, had but this idea —
to leave something to show that they had lived. All
t'.iese 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.

It was left to modem 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, thougl
he has not achieved what the world calls greatness,
his 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 Ins 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 ac< omplished,
which otherwise would be forgotten, is perpetuated
by a record of this kind.

To preserve the lineaments ot oar companions we
< ngl ave their portraits, for the sune reason we col-
lect the attainable facts of their history. Nor do we
think it necessarv, as wespeak 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 livef=
are unworthy of public record.

i/BRABT
OF THE

f ?

.^tafc

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RKCORI).

191

■■» :> * < *

JOSEPH B11H). The annals of
American biography are filled with
Jtl^wrecords of heroic endeavors on
the part of brave hoys who at
the same time that they were
hardened by poverty, cherished
a burning ambition to excel in
some branch of human knowledge
or skill. Many a noble boy has
not only tenderly cared for the
dear ones who have been left
destitute by their father's death
jut has also planned for the ac-
quisition of a liberal education
that he might become fitted for
the work to which he looked for-
ward. Such an experience has been his of whom
we write, and success has crowned his efforts, as it
usually" rewards the industrious and judicious. Mr.
Bird, whose portrait appears on the opposite page,
is a wealthy capitalist of Carlinville. His riches
have enabled him to do much for the benefit of his
adopted city and county, and his name is closely
associated with various enterprises that have ma-
terially advanced their interests. He is well-known
as the President of the Macoupin County Agricul-
tural Board.

A native of the State of Pennsylvania Mr. Bird

was born on a farm in Butler County, May 4, 1828.
His paternal grandfather, Joseph Bird, was of Eng-
lish birth and spent his entire life in his native
land. But two of his children ever came to Amer-
ica, William, the father of our subject, and Mary,
who married William Potter and died in Butler
County, Pa. William Bird was born in London,
England, and passed his early life in his English
home, but soon after marriage came to this country
and located in Butler County, Pa . where he bought
a tract of land three miles north of Harmony. He
resided there until 1836, when he sold his property
and came to Illinois, traveling with a team to Pitts-
burg, thirty miles distant. There he embarked on
the Ohio River, and voyaged on the waters of that
and the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers to Co'um-
biana. Greene County, this State. He rented land
there, and was in a fair way to prosper when death
cut short his career in August, 1837, the county
thus losing a practical, hard-working pioneer. His
widow was left in limited circumstances with three
children to care for.

Our subject was only nine years old when he
was thus sadly bereft of his father's care, and as he
was the only son, he had to commence at once to
help support the family. He was a bright, sturdy
little lad and the twenty-five cents a day that he
earned working on a farm during the busy season

192

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

was a welcome addition to the family income. In
1839 and 1810 he worked during the summer sea-
son for $6 a month and his board. In 1839 his
mother removed toCarroIlton,and there be worked
out in 1840 and 1841. Then, his mother having
bought a farm, he assisted her in its management,
and was thus engaged until 1849, when he rented
the place of his mother and carried it on until 1851.
In that, year he came to this county and purchased
three hundred and five acres of hind in what is now
Bird Township, paying $5 an acre for it. One hun-
dred and forty acres were under cultivation, and a
small frame house and a log stable stood in the
place.

Mr. Bird resided on that farm until 1879, and
in the meantime sold a part of the land, but as his
means accumulated he bought other land in the
same township, and finally had one thousand and
twenty-six acres of valuable land in his possession.
In 1879 he came to Carlinville and bought his
present elegant residence, which is pleasantly lo-
cated on the corner of Last Main anil High Streets.
With its well-kept grounds, handsome interior and
rich and tasteful furnishings it is one of the most
attractive. homes in the city.

Mr. Bird generously attributes a share of his
prosperity to the capable assistance of his wife,
who is endowed with those attributes of character
.that make her wise in counsel, an efficient house-
wife, and a true helpmate to her husband. They
began their wedded life more than folly .year
in 1819. They have had children, of whom these
three are spared to bless their declining years:
Carrie, who married Forrest Gore and resides
near Girard; Mary Olive, wife of Coy Roach,
of Girard; and Daisy Mabel, who lives at home
•with her parents. The following is the n
of the children of our subject and his wife
who have departed this life: Morris Edwin,
their only son, born July 9. 1858, died February
6, 1877; Ida Alice, boni September 16, 1864, mar-
ried Ellsworth Childs, and died June 3, 1890; Ada
E., their first child, born August 11. 1856, died in
December, 1858; Anna C, born May 22, 1860, died
at the age of ten months.

Mrs. Bird's name previous to her marriage was
Eliza Ann Laster. She is a native' of Greene

County. III., ami a daughter of Enoch and Charily
■(Hill) Easier, pioneers of that county. Her father
was born near Murfreesborough, Tenn., and was a
sou of Hardy Laster, one of the pioneer farm-
ers of that section, who died in that State,
Enoch Laster came to this Stale when a young
man as early as 1829, and was one of the first set-
tlers of Greene County, locating eight miles east of
Carrollton, where he improved a farm, upon which
he passed the remainder of his days. lie was quite
prominent in the community. He was the Justice
of tin- Peace for many years, and in his politics he
was a sturdy Democrat. The Rev. Abner Hill, the
maternal gravid father of Mrs. Bird, was a native of
North Carolina, whence he removed lo Tennessee.
In 1830 he c:iinc from there to Illinois, and was a
pioneer Baptist preacher of Greene County. He
was famous in his da}' in that section of the coun-
try, preached in different places, ami helped to or-
ganize several churches. He developed a farm mi
.suing Prairie, and lived on it until 1850, when lie
si ild it. and thereafter made his home with his
children in this county, dying at the home of his
daughter. Tlie maiden name of his wife was Annie
Hill. Mis. Bird's mother married a second time
after the death of her first husband, becoming the
wife of John Courtney, and she died in Bird
Tow nship.

Mr. Bird is eminently a self-made man, as he be-
gan life on his own account with no othe/ capital
than his mental and physical endowments, but
these have served him well, and he has accumu-
lated a handsome fortune by a determined effort to
overcome al! obstacles in the pathway of complete
success, and by the exercise of a quick, unerring
judgment in regard to the best means of making
money. A man of strong, firm character and of
large enterprise, he has been influential in various
ways in pushing forward undertakings of import-
ance that have been useful in furthering the rise
and progress of the county. Especially is this true
in regard to his connection with the Macoupin
County Agricultural Board, of which he is one of
the leading members. He was one of its organizers
and as its President for the last six years he has
gnaily helped lo make it one of our most servic-
able institutions, which lias done much to introduce

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

1!)3

the best modern methods <>f fanning and stock rais-
ing to the notice of the people. Mr. Bird was also
one of the organizers of the Carlinvillc National
Bank in May, 1890, of which he was then elected
Director.

• r * .;_

JN^

<a ItelLLIAM K. TAYLOR, a prosperous farmer
\/\/if °^ Bushy Mound Township, is a native of
Wyj Macoupin County, born in one of its early
pioneer homes in Gillespie Township, July 20,
1837. Ilis father, Arthur Taylor, was a native of
South Carolina, horn in Greenville district in 1813.
He in turn was the son of William Taylor, a farmer,
who is supposed to have been born in South Caro-
lina and died in Georgia.

Arthur Taylor was young when his parents re-
moved to Georgia and there his youth was passed.
When he was a young man he came to Illinois in
1831 and spent the "winter of the deep snow" in
this county. The following spring he returned to

1 Georgia and when he heard of the Black Hawk
War he came back to Illinois to take part in it.
For his services he received a land warrant, which
he sold. lie homestcaded Government land in
Gillespie Township, upon wliich some improve-
ments had been made. He afterward sold that tract
and bought another in the Northwestern pail of
the same township. He immediately proceeded to
build a log house, riving the boards for a roof,
making a puncheon floor and an earth and stick
chimney. The remaining years of his long and
useful life were passed on his homestead, where he

1 died at a ripe old age, December 25. 187i). His
widow is still living in the old home at a vener-
able age. Her maiden name was Sarah Ann Rose,
and she was born in New Jersey, a daughter of
Enos and R.iehael (Scott) Rose. She is the mother
of the following children: William E., Andrew J.,
Louisa, Albert, Asa, Ezra and Jane.

He of whom we write was reared in iiis native
township and received his education in the pioneer
schools that were taught in log houses, furnished
with seats made by splitting small logs, with wooden
pins for legs and without desks in front. When

he was a boy, our subject remembers seeing deer
and wolves quite frequently, and wild game often
proved a welcome addition to the fare of the pio-
neers. He resided with his parents until he was
twenty-one, and then in 1858 set out from the old
home to seek fortune's favors in California, going
by way of New York and the Isthmus to San Fran-
cisco. He engaged in both ranching and mining
in that State and in Nevada until 18(11.

In that year Mr. Taylor returned to his native
county, and buying land in Brushy Mound Town-
ship engaged in farming. At the time of his mar-
riage in 1865 he bought a small farm on Spanish
Needle Prairie, which remained in his possession
until 1869, when he sold it and purchased land on
the southeastern part of section 21, the same town-
ship. He resided there several years and devoting
himself assiduously to agricultural pursuits was
much prospered. In 1880 he pin chased his pres-
ent farm in Brushy Mound Township, where he has
since made his home, and has two finely cultivated,
well-improved farms that compare with the best in
this locality.

Mr. Taylor's marriage with Miss Martha Keltner
was celebrated March 25, 1865, and it has been
blessed to them by the birth of the following six
children — Lucy, Lydia, Annie, Willie, Ella and
Leroy. Mrs. Taylor is, like her husband, a native
of this county, born in Brushy Mound Township,
September 12, 1817. She is also a descendant of
an old pioneer family. Her father, William S.
Keltner, was born in Tennessee in 180!) and was a
son of Henry Keltner, who was a Virginian by birth
and he was one of the early settlers of Tennessee,
lie carried on farming there until 1818 when he
came to Illinois and cast in his lot with the pioneers
of Morgan County. He resided there many years,
but finally removed to Iowa when it was still a
Territory and located in Jefferson County, buying
quite a large tract of land in the vicinity of Fair-
field and passing his remaining days in that town.
The maiden name of his wife was Sarah Smith.
She was also born in Virginia and died at Fairfield.

Mrs. Taylor's father was nine years old when he
came to Illinois with his parents, and his youth was
passed in Morgan County. In 1832 he came to
Macoupin County ami was one of the pioneers of

194

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

Brushy Mound Township, whore lie bought Gov-
ernment land on section 28. He built there and in
the course of years improved an excellent farm,
which remained his home until he closed his eyes
in death, June 1, 1866.

Mrs. Taylor's mother is living at the advanced
age of eighty years, and makes her home with her.
Notwithstanding the burden of many years she
enjoys very good health, and her mind is still
blight and active. Brought up amid pioneer sur-
roundings in the early years of the settlement of
this State she still has a vivid recollection of those
times and can trace back to their origin the many
wonderful transformations that have been wrought
since she was young, and she naturally thinks that
the rising generation will not live to see as many

s it changes as she has seen. When she was a

chihl there were no railways or canals, and but few
manufactories of any kind in the United States.
She was taught to card, spin and weave, and in her
early married life made all the cloth used by her
family. Then all grain was sown by hand and
reaped by a sickle, and instead of being threshed
by a machine was trampled out by cattle or a Hail
was used. Mrs. Keltner's maiden name was Matilda
Hughes, and she was born in Monroe County, Ky..
December 10, 1811. Her father was Thomas
Hughes, a Virginian by birth, and he was a son of
Hugh Hughes.

Thomas Hughes was reared and married in Ken-
tucky and in 1827 came to Illinois accompanied by
his wife and six children, making the journey with
teams, taking all the household goods along and
cooking and camping by the way at night. He
located in Morgan County, whence he came in
the year 1832 to Brushy Mound Township. lie
first settled on Spanish Needle Prairie, where he
improved a tract of land, which he afterward sold,
and bought land east of the Mound in the same
township. He built and resided there until his
demise. The maiden name of his wife was Susan
Moore. She was born in Kentucky and died there
in 1821.

The life record of our subject as a practical
farmer and as a man and a citizen, is alike honor-
able to himself and creditable to his native county.
He has taken part in the management of public af-

fairs, and the same traits of character that have
made him successful in his vocation have made
him a good civic official. In 1888 and 1889 he
represented Brushy Mound Township as a member
of the County Board of Supervisors. Mr. Taylor's
social relations are with the Spanish Needle Lodge,
F. M. B. A. Both he and his wife are Baptists in
faith, and generously contribute of their means for
religious objects, and are constant attendants at
church, though not members thereof.

osias R. RIPLEY is a prominent business

man of Staunton. He now holds the posi-
I tion of express agent, is connected with
yj) several of the old lire insurance companies,
is Notary Public and ex-Police Magistrate. He
has been conducting his business as at present
for a good many years, having been a resident of
Staunton for over sixteen years. Almost his entire
life has been passed in this vicinity. He was born
in Alton, III., June 18. 1836, and is a son of George
Ripley, a native of Virginia, born of Virginian pa-
rents. The grandfather of our subject died when
George was an infant, and he grew up on a farm
under the care of his maternal grandfather, with
whom he emigrated to Illinois when quite young,
the family settling in St. Clair County. After he
had attained his majority, he was married in Madi-
son County to Miss Martha P. Randall, a native of
Georgia, who came with her parents, when a child,
to Illinois. The family settled at Edwardsville
when it was yet a fort, the year being 1818, the
same in which Illinois was admitted to the Union.
Her father, Josias Randall, was the first Recorder
of Deeds, and with the political and official history
of the county he was prominently connected. He
and his wife spent their last days in Madison
County, and lived to an advanced age.

George Ripley* and his wife began their domestic
life in St. Clair County, and afterward removed to
Alton, but returned to St. Clair in about 1837,
making their home at that place until 1849, when
they again located in Madison County, not far
from Staunton. The mother is still living at the

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

195

age of eighty-four years, and is yet bright and act-
ive. She is a member of the Methodist Church
and a most estimable lady. George Ripley died
on the farm at the age of fifty-five years. He
was a Whig in polities ami a life-long member of
the Methodist Church. Our subject was the second
in order of birth in their family of five children,
two sons and three daughters, of whom the sons
and one daughter are yet living.

Josias Ripley was reared to manhood in Madison
County, and has spent his entire life in that and
Macoupin County, except a few years when he was
temporarily absent. His educational advantages
were limited, but by reading he has become a well-
informed man, having an excellent knowledge con-
cerning topics of general interest. He is one of
the promiueiit men of Staunton and a leader in all
local affairs. He was prominently connected with
Hie organization of the Republican party, of which
he has since been a stalwart supporter. A number
of local offices he has held, having served as .Jus-
tice of the Peace, Police Magistrate, a member of
the Town Council, and at present is Notary Public.
In March, 1803, he entered the Government service
as clerk in the Quartermaster's Department, with
headquarters at Little Rock and Halls Bluff. Aik.,
where he remained until July, 186fi, when, the war
being over, he was discharged and returned to
Illinois. Since that time he has resided in Staunton
or vicinity.

Mr. Ripley was married in Montgomery County
to Miss Sarah M. Sturgis, who was born in Ches-
terfield, Macoupin County, September 4, 1847. and
under the parental roof was reared to womanhood.
She was educated in the public schools and a fe-
male college at Galesburg, and is an intelligent and
cultured lady. Her father, Isaac S. Sturgis, a na-
tive of Ohio, became one of the pioneers of Ma-
coupin County, and here married Miss Nancy
Chapman, who is said to have been the first white
child born in the county, her parents having come
to this State in an early day. Mr. Sturgis is a
farmer and followed that occupation in Illinois
until about fifteen years ago, when with his wife he
removed to Elk County, Kan., where they still
make their home. Mrs. Ripley is the third in order
of birth of their six children, all of whom are now

married and are prospering. By the union of our
subject and his wife have been burn live children
— Mary M., wife of E. Friedman, a banker of
Staunton; George P., who is employed as salesman
in the general store of II. A. Jones; Walter, an
employe in the train dispatcher's office at Litch-
field; Grace I. and Albert F. Both Mr. and Mrs.
Ripley are members of the Methodist Church, in
which he is an officer, and are active workers.
In the social world they rank high, and their
friends throughout the community arc many.

t^Ml MOS INGOLD. Among the many prom-
inent farmers and citizens of Shaw's Point
Township, Macoupin County, none arc
more favorably mentioned by their ac-
quaintances than Mr. lngold, who with his inter-
esting family, lives on section 20. He is the sou of
Jonathan and Mary M. (Michaels) lngold, and was
burn in Marion County, Ind.. November 19, 1834.
His parents, who were natives of North Carolina
came to Madison County, III., in L840 and upon the
farm which they purchased spent the remainder of
their lives. They had a family of sixteen children,
to whom they gave as good an education as oppor-
tunity permitted, and taught them many things not
found in text-books but necessary to prosperity
and happiness.

Our subject who was one of the younger mem-
bers of the family circle, grew to manhood in Mad-
ison County, III., and while still quite young
learned how to carry on a farm and develop the
resources of the land. When it was possible, he
attended the pioneer schools and gained what
knowledge he could under the circumstances, but
was necessarily obliged to be content with a lim-
ited amount or to add to it by self-effort. He
chose the latter, and by reading has kept himself
in touch with the world at large. In 1856 he left
his home in Madison County and going to Minne-
sota, sojourned there one year. He then returned
to this State, of which he has since been a resident.

For three years Mr. lngold resided in Bond
County, this State, and it was during this time

11)6

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

that be was married in December, 18(33, to Miss
Malinda Kingsbury. Mrs. Ingokl was born in In-
diana, June 16, 1839, and is the daughter of Ira
and Hannah Kingsbury, natives of Ohio, who came
to Illinois at an early day anil died in Bond Coun-
ty. Mrs. Ingokl was the next to the youngest in
their family of seven children, and under the pa-
rental roof she was trained to a noble womanhood,
learning those lessons which have enabled her to
preside over her cozy home with hospitality and
refinement They mourn the loss of six children,
all of whom died in infancy excepting a daughter,
Mary, who was taken from them at the age of four-
teen. However three children remain to brighten
the home — John, Oren and Flora.

After his marriage Mr. Ingold located in St.
Clair County, where he followed farming pursuits
until 187C,at that time he came to Macoupin Coun-
ty, and purchasing a farm of eighty acres in
Shaw's Point Township, has devoted his attention
since to its cultivation and improvement. Mr. In-
gold believes it the duty of every man to keep
himself well informed in matters of political and
general importance and to be assured of his stand-
ing on every question of national or local interest.
He has decidedly in favor of the principles of the
Democratic party, and supports them with his vote
and influence. He takes special interest in educa-
tional matters and has served efficiently as School
Director. He has also been Highway Commis-
sioner, but has never sought ollice, caring little for
the plaudits of the crowd, and feeling that the re-
sponsibilities would far outweigh the pleasures.

fl^ON. GEORGE J. CASTLE, who is inti-
mately associated with the prosperity of
this section of the State as one of the most
active and progressive members of the
Macoupin County Board of Agriculture, of which
he is Secretary, and who has been otherwise iden-
tified with the business interests of the county in
former years, was a gallant officer in the late war,
in which he won a distinguished reputation for
high military qualities. Since taking up bis resi-

dence here, lie lias held several important civic
. offices, and has proved a valuable acquisition to
the citizenship not only of Carlinville, where lie
has his present home as Postmaster at this city, hut
to the county at large

Mr. Castle is of New England biithand anteced-
anls. born at Watertown, Litchfield County, Ct.,
March 22, 1839. His father, John Castle and his
grandfather, Isaac Castle, were natives of that
State. The latter was a machinist and followed
\i'\> calling many years, the last part of his life
being spent at Waterbury.

The father of our subject was reared amid the
pleasant surroundings of his native State. For a
number of years he was prosperously engaged in
farming, but the closing years of his life were
passed in retirement at Waterbury, Cquii., where
he died in 1852. The maiden name of his wife was
Clarinda VVelton. She was born in Litchfield
County. Conn., and was a daughter of Jonathan
Welton. She married a second time, becoming the
wife of Samuel Holt, and now resides at New
Haven, Conn.

lie of whom this biography is written was the
Only son of his parents, and he was thirteen years
old when he had the misfortune to lose his father.
He obtained a practical education in the public
schools of Connecticut, which he attended until he
was fourteen years old. He then came to Illinois
with his uncle, Capt. Samuel Welton, and resid-
ed with him in Carli.iville Township, assisting on
the farm until 1851), when he returned to the East,
and ambitious to extend his education, he attend-
ed school at Watertown. He devoted himself assi-
duously to his books until 1861, making rapid
progress in his studies. The great civil strife be-
Iween the North and the South broke out, and he
watched its course with intense interest, aad in the
opening years of a promising manhood, animated
by the noble and self-sacrificing patriotism that
characterized both the old and the young men of
that day, he enlisted in the service of his country,
bis name being enrolled as a member of Co. D., 1st
Connecticut Squadron, in August, 1861. His com-
pany was mustered in the same month at Hartford,
Conn., and was immediately attached to the Second
New York Cavalry, to which our subject, belonged

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

197

until May, 1863. He was then promoted to the
position of Second Lieutenant, and was transferred
to the Thirteenth New York Cavalry. He was
subsequently made First Lieutenant of his com-
pany, and later was commissioned its Captain, and
commanded the company the last twelve months
of his service.

Our subject distinguished, himself in various
encounters with the enemy, and won his spurs on
many a hard fought battlefield, where he gave
ample proof of intrepidity, cool daring and de-
votion to the cause of the In ion. seconded by
tact as a leader and quick wit and sagacity in case
of emergencies. He was serving under Gen. Kil-
patrick during Stoneman's raid, and it was his
regiment that got inside the works around
Richmond, captured a few prisoners, including
some rebel officers, and dated their paroles from
that city. Captain Castle was with the advanced
corps at the battle of Falmouth, his regiment being
the first to cross the river into Fredericksburg,and
it guarded the rear of Pope's army dining the re-
treat from Rapidan to Fairfax Court House. He
was with Sheridan in his campaign in the Shenan-
doah Valley, and took an active part in the battle
of Winchester. January 11, 18G5, the captain
resigned his commission and bade farewell to mili-
tary life on account of disability.

Our subject returned to Connecticut after he
left the army, and then came once again to Carlin-
ville. He gave his attention io farming until
1873, and then engaged in the livery business
which lie conducted until 1890. In February of
that year he was appointed Postmaster, and has
ever since been at the head of the postoffice in this
city. He is managing the affairs entrusted to his
care, methodically, promptly, and in a business
like manner, so as to satisfy all concerned, and his
courtesy and geniality render him very popular.
He has held other prominent positions, and in
every case has displayed that true public spirit
that seeks to promote the highest welfare of the
country regardless of personal aggrandizement.
He was a member of Hie Board of Aldermen, of
Carlinville, from the First Ward one term, and in
1878 he was elected Mayor of the city. In licit
capacity he used his influence to forward all

schemes for the benefit of the public, and gave
hearty support to all measures calculated to pro-
mote the growth of the municipality.

In 1884 Mr. Cattle was elected lo the State
Legislature, and he look an active part in that
memorable contest that lasted from January until
May, ami terminated in the election of John A.
Logan to the United States Senate, he standing
firmly by the General from first to last. Politic-
ally, the Republican party has always found in him
a stanch adherent since he cast his first Presidential
vote for Abraham Lincoln. He has been identified
with the Macoupin County Board of Agriculture
for many years, has served it as Director and Pres-
ident, and for six years he has been Secretary of
Hie board, that owes much to his zeal in its behalf.
Socially, he is a member of the Dan Messick Post,
No. 339, G. A. R.;of Mt. Nebo Lodge, No. 76, A.
F. A- A. M.;of Orient Lodge, No. 95, K. P.; of
Silver Lodge, No. 325, K. of H.; and of Carlinville
Camp, No. 125, M. W. A.

The marriage of our subject September 8, 1868,
with Miss Emma B. Fish back, a native of Ala-
bama, and a daughter of William II. and Margaret
Fishback, has been one of mutual happiness. They
have three children living — William II., Louisa R.
and George J. Their youngest child, Clara Belle,
died at the age of seven years.

■:■%•*•%*

«-"7^»HA\TS M. MITCHELL, who resides on his
(r~\ pleasant farm on section 36, Brushy Mound
vfy Township, enjoys the distinction of being
the oldest native-born citizen of said township.
His birth took place in his father's log cabin on sec-
tion 24, February 13, 1833, he being the second
son born to Elijah and .lane (Moore) Mitchell.
See sketch of William T. Mitchell for parental his-
tory.

Travis M. attended the pioneer schools of this
locality, which were taught in a log house on the
subscription plan, each family paying in proportion
lo the number of scholars sent. The teacher
'■'hoarded around" with the parents of the pupils

198

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RKCORD.

throughout the district. Our subject was clothed
in homespun manufactured by the deft hands of
his mother, and the food that he and the rest of the
family ate was cooked by her before an open fire-
place. Before the advent of the railways the peo-
ple lived principally on the products of the farm.

Our subject remained at home until 1854 with
his parents, and his father then, oil his attain-
ing his majority- gave him a horse and saddle,
which, with about $20 in cash, comprised his entire
capital with which to begin life on his own ac-
count. But that was sufficient for a young man
of his calibre and wide-awake activity, and in the
course of time he has increased it many fold, and
is one of the wealthy men of his township. In the
fall of the same year that he left the parental abode,
after engaging for awhile in driving a team to
break prairie, receiving half the profits, he rented
of John Moore a tract of land in Honey Point
Township, and put in a crop of wheat. In 1876
his father gave him seventy acres of prairie on the
western half of the northeast quarter of section 36,
Brushy Mound Township, and which is included in
his present farm. The same year he bought twenty
acres of land adjoining his place, and ten acres of
which were timber. He has developed his estate
into a fine farm, which is replete with all modern
improvements, including a neat and commodious
set of frame buildings, and his well kept fields and
pastures yield him a handsome income. He has in-
creased the acreage of his farm until he has four
hundred and ninety-five acres of realty that is in a
fine condition.

On the 15th of April, 1858. Mr. Mitchell mar-
ried Miss Sarah Eliza Jackson, a native of Honey
Point Township, where she was born November 25,
1840. Their pleasant wedded life has brought to
them one son, Frederick Elijah. Our subject and
his estimable wife enjoy to a marked degree the
esteem and confidence of all who know them, as in
their daily lives they show themselves to be kindly,
warm-hearted people, who are thoughtful and geu-
erous toward others, and are in every sense of the
word Christians. Religiously, they are valued
members of the Baptist Church.

Mrs. Mitchell comes of one of the old and well-
known pioneer families of this county. Her father,

Frederick A. Jackson, was born in Claysville, Har-
rison County, Ky., October 1, 1818, and was a son
of William Jackson, a native of the same county.
The father of the latter, great-grandfather of Mrs.
Mitchell, was Jonathan Jackson. He was a native
of Virginia, where he was reared and married,
Eliza Olds becoming his wife. She was also a Vir-
ginian, and was a daughter of Jesse Olds, a native
of the same State. Mr. Olds removed from Vir-
ginia to the Northwest Territory in the early days
of the settlement of that part of the country, and
.stopped fur a time on the present site of Vincennes,
which was then a trailing post. From there he
went to Harrison County, Ky., and taught in dif-
ferent seminaries and academies in that State, hav-
ing previously taught at Vermont and Vincennes.
He was a graduate of Yale College, and a line
scholar. He also seems to have been a thorough
business man, for. coming to Macoupin County in
18:54, he settled in Honey Point Township, buying
with his son Augustus quite a tract of land; he be-
came wealthy, and at one time owned upward of
thirty thousand acres in this county. He taught a
few terms in Honey Point Township when he first
located there, and he resided there the remainder
of his life. The maiden name of his wife, great-
greal-grandmother of Mrs. Mitchell, was Mercy
Taft. She was born in Massachusetts and died in
Madison County, this State.

After his marriage, Jonathan Jackson went to
Kentucky and was a pioneer of Harrison County,
where he bought land and improved a farm, his
death taking place there. His son William Jack-
son, was a blacksmith, and carried on his trade in
connection with farming, his entire life being
passed in Harrison County, when; he died in 1849.
His wife survived him many years, her death finally
occurring at Claysville, Ky., in July, 1887.

Frederick A. Jackson was reared in his native
county, and when eighteen years old left the pa-
rental home and came to Illinois by the way of the
Ohio and Mississippi Rivers to Alton, and thence
on foot to his destination in this county. He found
employment on a farm, working by the month. At
the time of his marriage he settled on a wild tract
of land he had purchased in Honey Point Town-
ship. He erected a log house in which he and his

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

199

bride commenced housekeeping, and lived there
about seventeen years. He then sold his property
in this county, and went back to Kentucky, and re-
mained there three years. He then returned to
Macoupin County, where he has since resided, pur-
chasing the farm he now occupies in Brushy Mound
Township.

Mr. Jackson was married March 7, 1839, to Miss
Sarah Scott, a native of North Carolina, and is a
daughter of Robert and Martha Scott, also natives
of that State, and pioneers of this county. After a
marriage of more than half a century Mrs. Jackson
departed this life June 6, 1890, leaving behind her
the record of many well -spent days.

ESHACH SIIULTZ, one of the leading
citizens of Shipman, who is now a retired
farmer, is the gentleman whose name is at
the head of this biographical notice. His
father was Adam Shultz who was born in Somerset
County, Pa., about the year 1789. His mother
trad Nancy Shockey, who was also a native of the
same portion of the country as her husband, her
birth year being 1802. After marriage they set-
tled in their native county and in the course of
time removed from there to Alleghany County,
Md., in May, 1836, and lived there until his
death which occurred in 1864 when he was in his
seventy-sixth year. His widow came to Illinois
about 1866 and still resides in Shipman with her
daughter. They had a large family of fourteen
children of whom our subject was the seventh in
order of birth.

Mr. Shultz was born in Somerset County, Pa.,
May 28, 1831. He was about five years of age
when his parents removed to Alleghany County,
Md. There he grew to manhood under the mild
influences incident to farm life. Arriving at years
of manhood he was united in marriage in bis
adopted State March 20, 1853 to Miss Charlotte
Augustine, a daughter of Jacob F. R. and Jus-
dinah (Null) Augustine. The former was a native
of Somerset County, Pa., and the latter was born
near Hagerstown, Md. They settled in Somerset

County, Pa., and there lived until he died, when
about forty years of age. The mother still sur-
vives, at an advanced age. They had ten children
of whom Mrs. Shultz is the third. She was born
in Somerset County, Pa., April 80, 1835. There
she grew to womanhood and lived until her mar-
riage.

The original of this life record with his wife,
spent the first years of married life in Alleghany
County, Md., and Somerset County-, Pa., until 1869
when they came to this county and settled in Ship-
man Township on section 24, where they continued
to live until the spring of 1891, when our subject
retired from the active duties of farm life which
he had so long pursued and removed to the village
of Shipman where with his amiable and most
worthy wife he intends to pass the afternoon of a
life that has been occupied with the affairs and
business of an energetic career.

Mr. and Mrs. Shultz have welcomed to their
hearthstone eight children. They are: Marshall A.
Alonzo M., Jennie, Franklin S-, Cora M., Herman
J., Alice L., and Chester A. The eldest child died
when only four years of age. Alonzo was united
in marriage to Miss Margaret Mitchell. Jennie
is the wife of William A. Fisher. Franklin mar-
ried Miss Jessie F. Talley ; Cora is the partner of
the joys and sorrows of F. M. Dodson; Herman
was united to Miss Winifred Smith. All of the
children are bright and intelligent and hold pro-
minent positions in the social life of the commu-
nity.

The original of this sketch has filled the office of
Supervisor of Shipman Township for three years
and has been a School Director for three years.
He is now serving as Supervisor. He is a man who
takes an active interest in all local affairs. He af-
filiates with the Democratic party with whom he
casts the weight of his influence and vote. Both
Mr. and Mrs. Shultz are active members of the
Lutheran Church, being generous supporters of the
same. The greater part of our subject's life has
been spent in farming although for two years he
was engaged in mercantile pursuits at Grantsville,
Md. The farm which he owned for so many years
boasts many fine buildings. The home farm con-
sisted of three hundred and twenty acres and he

200

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

also owned an adjoining farm of two hundred and
forty acres, both- located in Shipman Township. He
is a member in good standing of the Knights of
Honor.

SS*§3

ERNST A. BFX'HTEL, proprietor of the
Staunton Nursery, which is located on sec-
_! tion 29, in the town of .Staunton, is num-
bered among the early settlers of the county of
1856, his residence here comprising a period of
thirty-five consecutive years. Of German birth,
he first opened his eves to the light of day in the
city of Bremen, January 24, 1830, and before he
had attained his majority he came to this country.
His father, Cornelius Bechtel, was also a native of
Bremen, and became a leading wholesale merchant
of that city, where he successfully carried on oper-
ations, becoming a wealthy man. He grew to
manhood under the care of an elder sister, for his
father had died when he was ten years of age. In
Aldenburg, Germany, he wedded Miss Sophia
Gelher, a native of that city. His death occurred
in 1850, at the age of sixty three years. She long
survived her husband ami died November 30,
1887, when nearly eighty-three years of age. Both
were members of the German Reformed Church
and were people of prominence in Bremen, where
they occupied a high social position. By their
marriage were born two sons — our subject and his
brother Heniy, who died in Germany when a young
man. By a former marriage Mr. Bechtel iiad be-
come the father of six children, three daughters
and three sons. The latter all came to America
and two became prominent merchants of New York
City. The other son returned and succeeded to
his father's wholesale business in Bremen. He died
some years ago.

As his father was well off, our subject was en
abled to secure, a good education, and was thus
fitted for life's duties. At the age of nineteen, in
1849, he bade good-by to home and friends, took
passage upon the sailing-vessel "Gaston," com-
manded by Capt. Blanke, and at length arrived in
New York. He spent one year in the eastern part
of the Empire State and then went to Washing-

ton, I). G. where h<: lived until he had attained
his majority and wedded Miss Mary L. Gilde-
meister, who was born in Prussia, January 17,
1835, and comes of a very prominent and cultured
family. Among her relatives was one famed tor
his literary productions. He was also a diplomat
and served as State Ambassador. He was killed by
the hand of an assassin. Otto Gildemeister, a cousin
of Mrs. Bechtel, is a prominent German author
and translator, who has translated into his na
live tongue the works of Shakespeare and Byron
Mrs. Bechtel is a daughter of Henry and Wilhel-
mina (Simonetti) Gildemeister, natives of Ger-
many, and they were descended from families of
note and worth. Among their relatives were those
who held high positions under the Government.
The mother was the daughter of an Italian musi-
cian who became the leader of a celebrated or-
chestra.

Mr. and Mrs. Gildemeister began their domestic
life in Bremen and alter some time he accepted a
position as professor in a leading agricultural col-
lege of Prussia, his situation being for life, but,
desiring to give his children better opportunities,
he decided to come to America and in 1848, with
his family, sailed across the Atlantic. He pur-
chased a farm in the District of Columbia ami
nine years later, with his wife and children, some
of whom were already married, came to Macoupin
County. 111., locating in Bunker Hill Township,
where they resided until their removal to Bunker
Hill to live retired. Mrs. Gildemeister died in
1870, at the age of sixty-five years. Mr. Gilde-
meister is still living in Bunker Hill, at the ad-
vanced age of ninety-seven years. His mental
faculties are still unimpaired, but he now suffers
from a paralytic stroke. He belongs to the Ger-
man Reformed Church. < f which his wife was also
a member.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Bechtel have been born five
children. Wilhclmina Minnie became the wife of
John W. Turk, who died in Staunton Township,
in 1885, leaving his widow and a daughter, Bertha,
to mourn his loss. They now reside with her
parents. Henry C. is engaged in the wholesale
grocery business in Springfield, Mo.; August It.
is extensively engaged in business as a nursery-

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

201

man; Mary L. is the wife of Samuel Payne, an
attomey-at-law residing in Greenfield, Mo.; Theo-
dore is assist inn Ins brother in the nursery busi-
ness. The Bechtel family is numbered among the
prominent people of Macoupin County and well
deserve to occupy that rank.

Mr. Bechtel, the subject of this sketch, is .1 Re-
publican in politics, and in all that pertains to the
welfare and upbuilding of the community he has
ever borne his part. He made farming his busi-
ness until he engaged in li is present line of t'-ade.
On coming to this county, he located upon a farm
in Dorchester Township, about half way between
Staunton and Bunker Hill, where he carried on
agricultural pursuits for six years, lie then estab-
lished a nursery and vineyard, and has since car-
ried mi that business. His home is now on sec-
tion 29, where eight years ago lie established the
Staunton Nursery. He carries all kinds of nur-
sery plants, shrubbery and vegetables of excellent
varieties, and has now a large wholesale and retail
trade. The home comprises fifteen acres of line land
and is beautifully adorned with trees anil shrubs.
Willi Mr. Bechtel in business the sons are associ-
ated, and they now do the principal part of the
work, relieving their father of the more arduous
labors.

Vj/OIIN T. CAIN, who is engaged in farming
on section f>, Honey Point 'township, is a
Southerner by birth, the place of his nativ-
ity being Grayson County, Ivy., and the
date, May 3, 184G. lie is a son of Abraham P.
Cain, who is supposed to have been a native of the
same county. The father of the latter, Patrick
: Cain, was born in Ireland, and on coming to Amer-
ica settled among the pioneers of Grayson County,
where he engaged in farming, and there spent his
i last years.

Abraham P. Cain was reared on a Kentucky farm,
and continued to live in his native State until
I 1850, when he came to Illinois, accompanied by
: his wife and three children. They made Jie jour-
ney with a team, bringing all their household ef-
| fects with them and cooking and camping often

by the way. A tier arriving in this State, Mr. Cain
located in Jersey County, residing a short time on
Hawkin's Prairie, then removed to Kemper's sta-
tion, where he lived two years. He next rented a
farm south of there, and dwelt upon it until 1860,
when became to Macoupin County, and purchased
a tract of partly improved land in Shipman Town-
ship. At that time Alton was the nearest market
and depot for supplies, there being no railways here
then. He engaged in the improvement of his farm,
and made his home here until his death. The name
of his wife before marriage was Nancy Downs.
She is a Kentuckian by birth, and a daughter of
Israel Downs. She is living at a venerable age,
making her home on the home farm, and is the
mother of seven children, namely, — Margaret A.,
John T., Sarah C. Israel Taylor, James W., Mary
E. and J. Hardin.

John T. Cain, of whom these lines are written
was bin live years old when the family came to Ill-
inois, and lie remembers well the incidents of pio-
neer life in Jersey County, during his boyhood.
At the time that they settled there the country
still retained much o! its primitive condition, and
dter and other wild game were numerous. He was
reared on a farm, assisting in its manifold duties,
and gaining a good practical knowledge of agricul-
ture 'hat has been of value to him since he began
his independent career as .1 farmer. In 1872 he
rented land in Brushy Mound Township, which he
cultivated very profitably, and he continued to re-
side in that township, until 1882, when he bought
and removed to the farm he now occupies in Honey
Point Township. This farm, with its carefully
tilled acres, its productive soil, and its excellent
improvements, is a valuable piece of property, and
yields its owner a comfortable income.

November 4, 1875, Mr. Cain married Miss Mary
E. Morgan, a native of this county, East Oarlinvillc
Township, her birthplace. Their pleasant wedded
life has been blessed to them by the birth of six
children, namely: Edward R., Leola, Ruby C, Ina
H., John R. and Margaret A.

Mrs. Cain's father, Thomas Morgan, was born in
Shropshire, England. February 21, L829. He re-
mained in his native land until he was twenty foul-
years old. when he came to America, crossing the

202

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

ocean in a sailing-vessel, and landing at New Or-
leans. From that city he came northward as far
as Memphis, Tenn., and after tarrying there a year,
he came to this county. He resided for two years
at Carlinville, and then settled at South Otter
Township, of which he has since been a resident.
He was a carpenter by trade, and worked on some
of the first frame houses ever erected at Carlinville.
He followed his trade for a time after locating in
South Otter Township, but for many years has de-
voted himself to farming, and owns a good farm
of forty acres.

Mr. Morgan was married in this county July 10,
1851, to Miss Harriet Walton, who was born in New
York City, February 20, 1832. They have five
children as follows, — Mary E., Florence, William
L., Minnie II. and Thomas E.

— Ht-gt^gg^ g i . ; ■>

^4 Rs - CLAKA M. (RICE) STEIDLEY, was

born in South Palmyra Township, April
17, 1841. Her father, Richard Rice, was a
Virginian and was born April 30, 1795.
His father, Edwin Rice, also spent his entire days
as far as is known in Virginia. The father of Airs.
Steidley was reared and married in his native
State, and removed thence to Kentucky, and in
1830 to Illinois where he made his home in Mac-
oupin County. This removal was made by team
and he brought with him not only his wife and
five children but also all his household goods and
possessions. He settled in what is now South Pal-
myra Township and made claim to a tract of Gov-
ernment land.

The same fall Mr. Rice returned to Kentucky on
horseback and brought back with him to Illinois
his brother and family as well as two other fam-
ilies. He returned to Illinois in time to encounter
the severities of the winter of 1830, which is noted
as the season of deep snow. He and his family
lived during that winter in a log cabin of one
apartment. Nothing daunted by this experience
which must have been a severe one to people coming
from the southland, he went to work in the spring

to put his farm in condition for cultivation, and
' made his residence there until his death in 1856.

The maiden name of the mother of our subject
was Clara Ann Cave. She was born in Virginia and
was the daughter of Thomas Cave, who spent his
last days in Kentucky and died in 1878. The
mother of Mrs. Steidley reared eleven children,
five of whom are now living. In the early settle-
ment of this county the farmers were obliged to
live entirely upon the products of the farm as they
were so far removed from any market and Mrs.
Rice and her children weie clothed from material
manufactured by her own hand. They raised tlax
and sheep upon the farm and she was accustomed
to card and spin the wool and to spin the flax and
from these materials to weave cloth for their
clothing.

Clara Rice resided with her mother until her
marriage in 1861 to Solomon J. Steidley, who was
born in Virginia, and was the son of Joseph and
Elvira Steidley. After marriage Mr. and Mrs.
Steidley resided upon the old Steidley homestead
in South Palmyra Township for some time and
then bought two hundred and eighty acres in North
Palmyra Township adjoining the village of Palmy-
ra and partly situated within its bounds. He carried
on agriculture and was also engaged in the sale of
farming implements until his death, but he was not
destined to a long life for he was called from earth in
June 1878, leaving a widow and three children to
mourn his loss. The children are named Charles
L., Rosa B. and Mary E. In early life both Mr.
and Mrs. Steidley became members of the Method-
ist Episcopal Church and ever found in it a broad
field of labor and influence. Mr. Steidley served
his church as both Steward and Class Leader and
was an active worker in the Sunday-school. In
his death his brethren realized that they met <i
loss which was irreparable. He was a member of
Palmyra Lodge, No. 163 A. F. & A. M., of Palmyra
Lodge I. O. O. F., and in politics easts his vote
and uses his influence for the promotion of tbe
Republican party. He has been a traveler to a
considerable extent and in 1852 went to California,
making the journey across the plains with a team.
Two of his brothers, Samuel and James, served
their country during the War of the Rebellion.

i/BRARY

OF THE

UNIVntfrry r - i

t !»'/- •'

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

20')

John Rice, Mrs. Steidley's brother, was out' of the
"one hundred days' boys" who went out in 1864
and .lames who belonged to the Thirty-second Illi-
nois Infantry, fell mortally wounded at Shiloh,
April 6, 1862. Mrs. Steidley's brother, Joseph
Bice, was killed at the battle of Shiloh. He was
First Lieutenant.

EN. RICHARD ROWETT. At. no time in
the history of our nation were the grand-
est qualities of heroism SO brilliantly dis-
played as during the Civil War, and high on the

roll of honor we place the name of those who main-
tained unsullied the glory of this mighty nation.
When gloomy war with all its horrors rent in twain
a once united people, there were not wanting brave
men to offer their lives in defense of liberty, to
dare, and do and die before the altar of patriotism.
In hours of peril no one faltered, but all. generals
and privates, military and civilians, fought with an
intrepidity which never failed them. In dire dis-
aster they became individually heroic, and fought
for that prosperity which in civic life they had
achieved.

The residents of Macoupin County and of the
Stale of Illinois, point with pride to the record
made in the Civil War by the late lien. Rowett,
whose portrait accompanies this sketch. Imbued
with an intense love for the land of his adoption,
and fired with a determination to uphold her in
stitutions, he enlisted at the breaking out of the
war, and served valiantly on many a hard-fought
battlefield. Asa private citizen and as a public
Official his career was alike stainless and honorable;
hi bis home, surrounded by a devoted wife and lov-
ing children, he enjoyed a needed relaxation from
Lhc duties of public life and there found his great-
!Sl pleasures. Although removed from the scenes
>f earth ere yet old age had come to him. he had
•von a reputation which was not bounded by any
nbitrary divisions of county or Suite. A grateful
lountry honors his memory, and generations vet
o come will revere his name.

Although not a native of the 1'nited States, in
*liefs, ideas and principles he was intensely

American. The place of his nativity was England,
and he was born in East Looo, Cornwall, in 1830.
In far-famed Britain he grew to manhood, and hav-
ing early laid the foundation of an upright charac-
ter and possessing an intellect of a very high order,
there was everything in his personal qualities to
indicate a career of usefulness. The knowledge
which he gained from the Inst literature of the day
was of inestimable value to him. History, bio-
graphy and oratory gradually enkindled in his
heart a desire to be something more than a mere
worker with his hands, and he became, almost un-
known to himself, a well-informed, elucated man.
When twenty-one years of age he left his home
and crossed the broad Atlantic- and sought in Amer-
ica, what the future might hold in keeping for him.
In the State of Indiana he passed three years in a
buggy, harness and trimming establishment. In
1854 he removed to this county where he remained
until called hence. The first years of his residence
here were times to try the souls of men; war was
threatening and danger lurked on every hand.
Finally affairs reached a crisis, and the gun fired at
Ft. Sumter echoed round the world. When the
war broke out in lotil he was commissioned Cap-
tain of Company K, Seventh Illinois Infantry. His
skill as commander soon attracted attention, and he
was promoted to Major, Lieutenant-Colonel, Col-
onel and was lnvvetled Brigadier-General for spec-
ial acts ,,;' gallantry at Allatoona. In three differ-
ent engagements he received as many severe wounds,
at Shiloh. Corinth and Allatoona.

Impressed with the ability and attainments of
Gen. Rowett. Gov. Palmer appointed him Canal
Commissioner, and. in 1871 he accepted the appoint-
ment of Penitentiary Commissioner. In 1876 he
took his scat in the Thirtieth General Assembly as
a representative from Macoupin County. Though
never radical in politics, his vote and sympathies
weic with the Republican party, and the testimony
comes from all his acquaintances that his ability
and integrity won, to a very unusual degree, the
respect of his associates. His popularity obtained
for him the office of Internal Revenue Commis-
sioner for the Fourth District the appointment be-
ing made by President Garfield. Hire as elsewhere,
he nobly discharged the duties incumbent upon

206

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

him, and the efficiency which characterized his
every effort was noticeable in this important posi-
tion.

Notwithstanding the many official duties which
devolved upon him, he pursued the interests of his
farm, which consisted of two hundred acres on sec-
tion 17, and gave especial attention to the bleeding
of thoroughbred horses. His death was very sud-
den and occurred in Chicago, this State, at Wash-
ington Park, July 13, 1887. Since his demise his
widow has superintended the affairs of the farm be-
side guarding the interests of her three children —
Mary, Edith K. and Richard. Archibel died when
three years old. Gen, Rowett was twice married,
and by his first wife had one son, Charles. His
widow bore the maiden name of Ella Braley, and
grew to womanhood among the people of Macou-
pin County, of which she is still an honored resi-
dent. Her father, Ellison Braley, is spoken of at
length elsewhere in his volume; her mother Cath-
erine (Coon) Braley. was a native of New York.
The parents were married in New York City, aim
emigrating to Illinois in 1840, settled in Collinsville.
Madison County, where Mrs. Rowett was born Feb-
ruary 22, 1848. Some years afterward they re-
moved to Macoupin County, and are now residents
of Carlinville. Of the six children born to them,
Mrs. Rowett was the third. The uneventful years
of her maidenhood were passed in her father's home
where she enjoyed the educational advantages of a
common school. On February 12, 1874, she was
united in marriage with Gen. Richard Rowett, in
Carlinville, and their happy wedded life was ter-
minated by the death of the Genera] in l*s7.

x.R. ROBERT J. HORNSBT is the owner
of one of the beautiful residences of
Bunker Hill, and it will probably continue
to be his home during the remainder of
his life. He has been identified with the history
of the county for about forty-five years and is
numbered among its wealthy citizens. He was
born in Shelby County, Ky.. September 13, 1819,
and is of English descent, the family having been

founded in America by Joseph Hornshy, the grand-
father of our subject, who left his English home
and emigrated to America (Albemarle County, Ya..)
prior to the Revolutionary War. He had followed
merchandising in his native land and acquired a
good property, but upon coming to this country
he became a large landowner. The British learn-
ing that he was possessed of considerable silver-
ware, through some slaves who had deserted him,
threatened to burn his home if he did not reveal
its hiding-place and to save a shelter for his fam-
ily he revealed the hidden treasure, which he had
buried in a hole beneath the smokehouse in order
to keep il safe. After the death of his wife he
removed with his children to Kentucky, in 1801,
locating in Shelby County, where he entered land
from the Government and engaged in farming until
his death at a ripe old age.

The father of our subject, Joseph Hornsby. Jr..
moved with his father to Kentucky, where he lo-
cated, and spent his entire life upon the old home-
Stead, his death occurring at the age of sixty-four
years lie was a successful farmer, owned a
number of slaves and his landed possession!
aggregated thirteen hundred acres. In politics he
was a Whig and one of the great admirers of
Henry Clay. In Kentucky he met and married
Miss Cynthia Allen, who was born in Pennsylvania,
and belonged to the old Allen family, which for
man\ generations had resided in this country. She
was but a child when her parents emigrated to
Shelby County and there she grew to womanhood.
She survived her husband some years and after his
death went to live with her son, D. C, near St.
Louis, where she died at the age of seventy-three
years. She was a faithful member of the Presby-
terian Church hut Mr. Hornsby was a believer in
the doctrine of the Episcopal Church.

The Doctor was the sixth child and fifth son in a
family of ten children, numbering eight boys and
two girls, of whom all but one lived to be grown
while three yet survive. In the usual manner of
farmer lads he spent the days of his boyhood and
youth, until twelve years of age, after which he
was sent by his father to school in Jefferson County,
Ky., for two years, after that to Danville College,
for a short time, and then to college at Shel-

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

207

byville, Shelby County. Having determined to
make the practice of medicine his life-work he
entered the office of Dr. Benjamin W. Dudley, of
Lexington, Ky., a prominent physician with a
world-wide reputation as a surgeon. After study-
ing under his direction for two years, and graduat-
ing, Dr. Hornsby began the practice of medicine
in Kentucky, where he remained three years. From
Shelby County, he came to Illinois and entered
some tracts of land from the Government in Madi-
son County, and purchased other lands, settling
near what is now Prairie Town, in 1846. The
country round about was all wild and unimprove '.
He also saw the advantage of buying cattle and
feeding them upon the succulent grasses which
covered the prairies and in this way also realized a
handsome profit. From November, 1849, until
1KG2, the Doctor made his home near Jefferson
Barracks, St. Louis, where he was actively engaged
in the practice of his profession, having at that
time bought land in the vicinity of St. Louis, which
he still owns. In 1854 he laid out and founded
the town of Clyde, Macoupin Count)'. Four years
later in connection with L. L. Dorsey, he laid out
the village of Prairie City and his land at that
place soon sold for a good profit. At one time he
owned over twelve hundred acres in Madison
County, but as values have increased he has dis-
posed of the greater pan of it. He still owns
two hundred and seventy-five acres near Prairie
City, one hundred and sixty acres in Dorchester
Township, Macoupin County, and six hundred and
forty acres near Clyde, III. Most of his land is
well improved an I is under the charge of enter-
prising farmers.

Dr. Hornsby wedded Miss Frances Cordelia
Dorsey, a native of Jefferson County, Ky., born
December 1, 1825, and a daughter of Elias and
Martha R. (Booker) Dorsey. Mrs. Dorsey was the
daughter of Col. Richard Hooker, who served in
the War of 1812. Elias Dorsey enlisted under
him at the age of seventeen years and on the
promise of good behavior, the Colonel promised
to give him one of his daughters in marriage on
his return, which promise was fulfilled. Elias
Dorsey and his wife were natives of Maryland and
Kentucky respectively ami their married life was

spent in Jefferson County of the latter State. They
went on a prospecting tour to Illinois, preparatory
to determining whether they would make that State
their home and while on the return trip Mrs. Dor-
sey was thrown from a carriage while crossing a
bridge in Indiana. A limb was fractured and the
accident resulted in the loss of her life. Mr. Dor-
sey continued his residence in Kentucky and after-
ward married Mrs. Williamson, a lady of Balti-
more, Md., after whose death he came to Illinois
and died at the home of his son- in law, Edward C.
Winchester, at the age of seventy-six. He was
one of the largest landowners in this part of the
S'.ate, bring the possessor of more than twenty
thousand acres of good land. He was very suc-
cessful in all his business undertakings and although
he had little when he started out in life he became
very wealthy. In politics he was a strong Jackson-
ian Democrat.

Mrs. Hornsby was one of thirteen children and
her education was acquired in a Catholic school
near Beardstown, Ky. She hr.s proved a good
helpmate to her husband and this honored and
worthy couple have the respect and esteem of all
with whom they have come in contact. Loth are
members of the Episcopal Church. In politics he
is a stanch Democrat, and is well-informed con-
cerning the political history of the country but has
never been an office-seeker. The Hornsby house-
hold numbers the following members: The Doctor
and his wife, Robery .1. and Martha I). Four chil-
dren of the family are now deceased, William
Walker, Thomas Levin, Elias Dorsey and Robert
Henry. The eldest of the surviving daughters is
Julia B., who is married and resides in Bunker
Hill; and Carmelite W. is the wife of Prof. Sliver,
whose sketch appears on another page of this work.

Dr. Hornsby located in Gillespie, Macoupin
County, in 1862, where for four years hecairied
on a successful practice and then came to Bunker
Hill, where he has since made his home. Only a
short time had elapsed before he was again engaged
in attending to a huge practice and he always had
all that he could take care of. often more than he
wished for, until he announced that he intended to
retire and would no longer engage in practice. He
deserves the greatest credit for his success in life,

208

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

which is due not to good luck but to li is own en-
terprise and sagacity. He knew how to make the
most of every opportunity, was industrious and
enterprising and possessing good management and
much natural ability be worked his way upward
until he had attained a position among the wealth-
iest of Macoupin County's citizens. His life has
been characterized by honesty and fair dealing and
is well worthy of emulation in many respects. Mr.
Hornsby is now an old man of seventy-two years
but in appearance seems hardly past the prime of
life as he possesses both a mental and physical
vigor which accompany younger years.

<ips«) DWARD H. DAVIS, a retired fanner living
Is) on a farm which adjoins the city limits of
l*^— ^ Bunker Hill, is numbered among the hon-
ored pioneers of the county, few having longer re-
sided in this locality. He has not only been an
eyewitness of the growth and progress of the
county but has also taken an active part in its up-
building, especially has he been prominently con-
nected with its agricultural interests. He has seen
its once wild lands transformed into beautiful
farms, its cabin homes replaced by substantial and
beautiful residences, towns and villages spring up
and has witnessed the introduction of many manu-
factures and industries, also the advent of the rail-
road, the telegraph and telephone. But we will
speak more of his pioneer experiences in the re-
cital of his life work.

Mr. Davis was born in Concord, N. II.. Febru-
ary 25, 1821, and belongs to one of the prominent
families of the Granite State. His grandparents,
natives of England, emigrated to America prior to
the Revolutionary War, and when the Colonies re-
solved to throw off the yoke of British tyranny the
grandfather, David Davis, enlisted as a musician
and became a notable patriot. The father of our
subject, Robert Davis, was a jeweler of Concord.
in which city' he spent his entire life, dying at the
age of seventy-one years. He was a prominent
politician and as such gained a State reputation.

He served as Postmaster of Concord and was also
Quartermaster General for the State Militia. His
political views were those of the Democracy.

Our subject is the eldest son anil second child
born unto Mr. and Mrs. Robert Davis. He ac-
quired an excellent education in the schools of Con-
cord and Pembroke. X. II., and under his father's
direction learned the jeweler's trade, which he fol-
lowed for three years in Savannah, Ga., before
coming to Illinois. The year 1839, witnessed his
arrival in Macoupin County, since which time he
has been numbered among the leading and influ-
ential citizens of the community. Farming has
been his life work and at his present home he has
resided since 1852 engaged in general farming and
stock-raising, whereby he has acquired a handsome
competence. Although he has led a busy life lie
ha- vet found time to devote to public interests
and upon the Democratic ticket, being a standi
supporter of the Democracy, he has been elected
to various public offices. He was the first Clerk
elected after the organization of his township, for
the period of live years was Deputy Assessor of
the county and for a term of eight years served as
Deputy Sheriff. Every enterprise calculated hi
benefit the community receives his hearty support
and co-operation and no man has done more for
the upbuilding of the community in which lie
makes his home.

It was after his arrival in this county that Mr.
Davis, on the 5th of October, 1840, was united in
mairiage with Miss Jane H. Cavender. For more
than half a century they have traveled life's jour-
ney together, sharing with each other the joys and
sorrows, the adversity and prosperity which check
ers the lives of all. Their union has been blessed
with ten children and only one has been called
away — Eliza .1. who died in childhood. Henry,
the eldest, wedded Minnie Fansteil and resides in
Si. Paul, Mini.; Charles who wedded Catherine
Eullerton of Minnesota, is now an engineer of
Minneapolis; Frank led to the marriage altar Miss
Margaret Colman and they are living in Nevada.
Mo., where he is employed as an engineer: Calista
is the wife of Harry Winder, a farmer of Anoka,
Minn.; Albert operates the home farm; Walter is a
resident of Nevada, Mo.; Rebecca is the wife of

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

209

Henry Sneeringer, a resident farmer (if Bunker
Hill Township; Lucy is the vvife of Charles Oliver,
a painter of Bunker Hill; and Fred, who wedded
Julia Alexander, makes his home in Bunker Hill.

Mrs. Davis, the mother of this family, was born
in llillsboro County, N. II., May 22, 1823, and is
a daughter of Charles Cavender, who was bom and
reared in New Hampshire and early in the spring
of 1838, Uft that Stale in company with his daugh-
ter and emigrated Westward to Illinois, settling on
an unbroken farm of one hundred and sixty acres
of land just west of Hunker Hill, where he spent
the remainder of his life, dying at the age of eighty -
three years. He was a prominent Democrat, a
member of the Christian Church, and one of Hie
leading citizens of the community. Mis. Davis
was only a child, when with her father she came to
this county. She has now resided in the vicinity
of Bunker Hill longer than any other lady resident
of this locality. Both Mr. and Mrs. Davis are mem-
bers of the Congregational Church. They are
numbered among Macoupin County's best citizens
and are held in universal esteem.

AMUKL CLARK, who carries on general
funning and stock-raising on section 28,
Staunton Township, is a representative of
one of the carl}' families of the county.
lie now lives upon a part of the old homestead
where almost his entire life has been passed, having
been brought to this State when a child of only a
tew months. He was born in County Dare, Ire-
land, on the 8th of June, 1842, of whi h county his
parents, William and Eliza (Little) Clark, were
also natives. The Clark family is of Sc itch-Irish
origin and in the neighborhood of his birth the
father of our subject grew to manhood and was
married. Some year.-, later, with their . family,
numbering three children, they started for Amer-
ica, crossing the Atlantic in a sailing vessel, which
after several weeks reached New York Harbor in
safely. They at once came on to Illinois, travel-
ing by water to Alton, and thence across the prai-
rie with teams to Staunton Township, Macoupin

County, where Mr. Clark entered eighty acres of
land from the ( iovci nment. The family began life
in true pioneer Style in a little log cabin which the
father had built and the efforts of Mr. Clark and
his miiis were devoted to clearing and improving
tie land. He sold after eighteen years and made
purchase of one hundred and sixty acres on sec-
tions 27 and 2.S, Staunton Township, part of which
is now occupied by our subject. Again he per-
formed the arduous task of converting raw prairie
into rich and fertile fields and the pleasant home
which lie then 1 made continued to be his place of
abode until his deatii. which occurred .January 17.
1878, at the very advanced age of ninety-seven
yea's. He had been very successful in his business
operations and in the second farm which he devel-
oped owned two hundred and forty acres of valu-
able laud. A honest and industrious man. he lived
m harmony with his professions as a member of
the Presbyterian Church and when called to his
final rest many sincere friends mourned his loss.
In politics he was a supporter of Republican prin-
ciples. His wife, who still survives him, is likewise
a member of the Presbyterian Church and is living
with her younger son at the age of seventy five
years.

The early life of our subject passed unevent-
fully. As soon as old enough he began work upon
the farm and during the summer months labored
at home, while in I'll' winter season heattended the
district schools of the neighborhood where his ed-
ucation was acquired. Having arrived at. years of
maturity he began business on his own account
ami as a helpmate on life's journey chose Miss El-
eanor Williamson, their wedding being celebrated
in Madison County The lady was born in County
Donegal. Ireland, in 1846, and is a daughter of
John and Mary (Gallagher) Williamson, natives of
the same country, and both descendants of Pro-
testant families. At length they bade good-by to
their native land and in 1857 with their live child-
ren crossed the broad ocean to America, landing in
Philadelphia, Pa., whence they went to St. Louis,
coining on to Macoupin County immediately after-
wards. Upon a small farm in Ml. Olive Township
they began life in the New World and there Mr.
and Mrs. Williamson resided until having become

210

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

too old to work they went to the home of their
children in Olive Township, Madison County,
where the father died at the age of eighty-four
years. There the mother is still living with her
three sons at the age of seventy-five. They united
with the Presbyterian Church in early life and are
numbered among the respected citizens of this
community.

Only one child has been born of the union of
Mr. and Mrs. Clark. Alice B., who is a bright
young maiden. The mother is a member of the
Covenanters' Presbyterian Church and to its sup-
port Mr. Clark contributes, although he does not
belong. In politics be is a Republican and what-
ever tends to elevate or upbuild the community is
sure of his hearty sympathy and co-operation. He
is numbered among the practical and progressive
farmers of Staunton Township and owns one hund-
red and twenty acres of good land, a part of the
old homestead which he developed from its primi-
tive condition. His pleasant and tasty residence
lias in the rear good barns and outbuildings and
surrounding these are well tilled fields, while an
additional forty acres of timber land in Staunton
Township is also the properly of Mr. Clark.

R. JOHN* ASH, who stands in the front
rank among his professional brethren of
l{ gJy? this county, is now engaged in practice
in Brighton, where he has made his home
since 1853, He cla'ms Pennsylvania as the State
of his nativity, having been born in West Callen
Township, Chester County. November 29, 1818.
The family is of German origin and was founded
in America by the great grandfather of our subject,
Joseph Ash, who emigrated from Germany prior to
the Revolutionary War. He lived in the city of
Philadelphia for a short time and there married
a German lady, after which he removed to a farm
in Chester County, where he died at the age of
ninety-seven years. He was a nan small of stat-
ure but very wiry and only a few years before his
death worked as a hand in the harvest field. Our
subject is one of the four great-grandchildren who

attended his funeral as pallbearers. His wife
reached the ripe old age of ninety-five and both
she and Mr. Ash were members of the Luth-
eran Church. William Ash, the grandfather
of our subject, was born and reared on his father's
faun in Chester County, Pa., and there spent his
entire life. He died in 1850, at the age of seventy
years, from a cancer on the lip. In the county of
his nativity he had married Nancy Stepler, who
was a member of the Society of Friends and lived
to an advanced age.

Joseph Ash, father of the Doctor, was also born
in Chester County, Pa., where members of the fam-
ily are still living. He married Miss Elizabeth
Xigler, daughter of Tilchman and Catherine Zigier,
who were natives of Germany but spent the greater
part of their lives in Chester County, Pa., where
they passed away when well advanced in years.
Joseph Ash and li is wife emigrated Westward in
1853, locating in Brighton, where the lady died at
the age of sixty -six years. Mr. Ash long survived
her and was called to his final rest when ninety
years of age. In the East they had both united
with the Baptist Church, but after coming to this
county joined the Methodist Cnurch. They lived
(••insistent lives and were numbered among the
highly respected people of the community.

We now take up the personal history of the Doc-
tor, who is the second in order of birth in a family
of six children, four sons and two daughters, all of
whom are living, are married, have families and
are prospering. Our subject acquired his literary
education in the public schools and having deter- 1
mined to make the practice of medicine his life
work, he entered the Pennsylvania Medical Col-
lege of Philadelphia, from which he was graduated
in the spring of 1851. He also attended the Straws-
burg Academy for two years. Believing in the
West there were better openings than in the more
thickly settled States of the East, he came at once
to Illinois, locating in Delphi, Jersey County, but
the same year removed to Piasa, where he remained
until coming to Brighton in 1853. He hung out
his shingle, opened an office and announced that he
was ready to attend to any in need of medical ser-
vices. From the beginning his business constantly
increased and it was not long before Dr. Ash was

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

•ill

considered one of the best physicians of the county.
In Brighton the Doctor wedded Miss Mary E.

I.ovcland, who was born in Rhode Island, in 1830,
Mini came to this Stale when a child, with ber par-
ents. Leonard and Elizabeth Loveland, who spent
the remainder of their lives in Brighton Township,
Macoupin County. She is a lady of culture and
intelligence, having been educated in Monticello
Seminary and Jackson Female College. Unto the

I tor and his wife have been born four children.

but Charles died in childhood; Lena and Dora are
both graduates of Monticello Seminary; the latter
is now the wile of Dr. James Mason, a leading
dental surgeon of the town of Carlinville; and
John R., who graduated from the Vermont Hospital
Medical College of St. Louis, is now engaged in prac-
tice with his fathe.' and is a leading and enterprising
young physician. Mrs. Ash is a prominent and ac-
| tive member of the Methodist Church and the Doctor
holds membership with the Baptist Church. He is
also a Knight Templar Mason, belonging to Belvi-
dere Commandery, No. 2, K. T. of Alton, and in
politics he and his son arc Republicans. His skill
and ability are recognized by his fellow-practition
en and the liberal patronage which he receives is
well merited. He is still a student of the profes-
| sion, keeping abreast with every discovery con-
; nected with the science of medicine and in his forty
re' experience he has gained a practical knowl-
edge which classes him high in the ranks of his
profession. During the late war he served for
some months as surgeon in Memphis, Tcnn.

-^m-

_5T**~ -* 1 -

1IARLKS J. C. FISCHER. M. D. Carlin-
he home of professional men of
In ise success in their various lines
has been commendable to them and satisfactory to
the people whom they have aided. In the ranks
of medicine Dr. Fischer is numbered as one of the
most successful in the city. He was liberally edu-
cated, and from his early youth applied himself to
those studies which would be of benefit in the field
of labor which he desired to enter. Not content
with that which he learned in books, he has thought

deeply and observed carefully, making of the
human form and its needs a book in which to find
continual interest. In the work of various medical
societies he finds opportunity to further advance
his theoretical knowledge and with a practical
mind he applies every principle learned to good
purpose.

Dr. Fischer is of German parentage, being a son
of Jacob and Catherine (Furch) Fischer, who were
born in Wurtcmberg, Germany. His father came
to America when a young man and joined an uncle
who had located in New York many years before.
He lived in that city for a time and while there
learned the trade of a blacksmith. He then went
to Rochester, but returned to the metropolis and
thence removed to Missouri in 1838. He established
a home in Perry County and engaged in farming,
but after a residence of six years removed to Coll-
insville, Madison County, this State, and opened a
wagon and blacksmith shop. At a later period he
engaged in mercantile pursuits. His death occurred
in that place in 1879. Mrs. Fischer came to this
country with her sister Rosa, when fourteen years
old. She now makes her home in St. Louis, Mo.
She reared nine children, named respectively:
Caroline, Mary. Martha, George, Charles, Gustavus,
Harry. William and Albert,

Dr. Fischer was born in Collinsville, Madison
County, January 28, 1854. When ready to take
up studies beyond the family circle he attended a
private school in his native place, but later entered
the public school. When sixteen years old he be-
o-an the study of Latin and Oerman under a private
tutor and pursued those languages most industri-
ously two years. Soon after these branches were
completed he began reading medicine under the
guidance of Dr. A. M. Powell, and when a good
foundation had been laid he attended lectures in
the st Louis Medical College, from which he was
graduated in March, 1877. In May following he
opened an office in Carlinville, and ere long he had
gained a good following and become known as a
young man well versed in therapeutical science,
careful and sympathetic in the diagnosis and treat-
ment of disease, and successful in alleviating dis-
tress.

An event of much importance to Dr. Fischer

212

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RKCORI).

occurred January 28, 1879. It was his marriage to
Sophia E. Schurieht, a young lady who was horn in
St. Louis, Mo., of German parents, and who had a
good education, had been carefully instructed in
domestic arts and possessed an estimable character.
The, union has been blest by the birth of three
daughters, who are named respectively, Eleanor,
Elfrida and Annie.

Dr. Fischer has not been without his share in
promoting the civic interests of the city, lie rep-
resented the Fourth Ward as Alderman in 1885,
and in 1887 was elected to the Mayor's chair. In
both capacities he showed an interest in tiie im-
provement of the city and the progress of her citi-
zens in all that pertains to the best civilization.
In politics he is a Democrat. The religious home
of himself and family is in /.ion's Evangelical
Lutheran Church. He is connected with the .Ma-
coupin County Society for Medical Improvement,
Illinois Medical Society and Mississippi Valley
Medical Association. In educated circles he is cor-
dially greeted, as he is a line scholar and is always
interested in scholarly themes.

»"f=M§<

IkM ARTIN H - HEAD. M. D . one of the lead-
/// 111 ' n S physicians of the county, has been
/// 111 practicing his profession for many years at
® Carlinville, where he is held in honor and

esteem by a large circle of friends and acquain-
tances. He was born May 3, 1827. about ten miles
east of Louisville, Ky„ a son of Benjamin Head,
who was a native of Virginia. The grandfather of
our subject. Iladley Head, was. it is thought, born
in Virginia of Welsh ancestry, and so far as known
spent his whole life in his native State.

Benjamin Head was reared and educated in the
Old Dominion, and when a young man went to
Kentucky, and for come years he was engaged in
the mercantile business at Middleton, Jefferson
County. He subsequently purchased a farm ten
miles east of Louisville, upon which he dwelt in
comfort the remainder of his life, devoting himself
to agriculture, his death occurring in 1837. He
had been twice married, the maiden name of his

second wife, mother of our subject being Margaret
>>\ Brengman. She is still living at the venerable
.age of eighty-five years, and makes her home at
Middleton. She is a native of Jefferson County,
Ky., and a daughter of Martin Brengman. The
latter was born in Germany, whence he came to
America and resided for a lime in Maryland. From
there he went to Kentucky, and purchased a farm
near Middleton, where n he lived until his demise.

Dr. Head was but ten years old when he was be-
refl of a father's care ami counsel. He continued
to make his Inime with his mother, assisting on the
farm and attending school. At the age of twenty-
one he commenced the study of medicine with Dr.
J. M. Bemiss, of Middleton, and he subsequently
attended medical lectures at Louisville, being grad-
uated from the Louisville Medical College in 1851.
The same year he came to Carlinville and opened
an office and has been in continuous practice in this
city since. At that time it had but a few hundred
inhabitants, and the surrounding country was still
ill the hands of the pioneers and was hut sparsely
settled, the people living on the edge of the timber,
while deer and other wild game roamed over the
prairies, the land all being open around and on the
site of the village.

Dr. Head continued in active practice until the
commencement of the war, and he then offered his
professional services to the Government in May,
lsc I. and became Assistant Surgeon of the Four-
teenth Illinois Infantry, remaining with that regi-
ment one year, and doing valuable work in reliev-
ing the wounded and sick soldiers. In 18G2 lie
entered hospital service at Memphis, Teun., and in
April, 1865 was transferred to Crittenden Hospital
at St. Louis, where he was stationed until the fol-
lowing October, when he was honorably discharged.
He returned to Carlinville and to the quiet routine
of professional life in village and country, bringing
with him a valuable experience gathered during
those sad years among the sick and dying defend-
ers of our country, and a high record for services
rendered while acting as a military surgeon and
physician. He has since conducted a successful and
lucrative practice here.

In 1853 the Doctor was united in marriage to
Miss Margaret I. Blackburn. Mrs. Head is a na-

LIBRARY
OF THE

/lpfnM£sv\dtsn (//,$, t/n-icAjsu?

Cry^,

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

215

live of Versailles, Ky , a daughter of the Rev. John
Bnd Catherine (Edwards) Blackburn, her father a
Presbyterian minister. Dr. and .Mrs. Hear] arc the
parents of two children, Eugene S.. a physician : ami
Hadley. Both our subject and his amiable wife
nix' consistent and devoted members of the Episco-
pal Church. Fraternally, the Doctor is a mem-
ber of Ml. Nebo Lodge, No. 7G, A. F. A A. M.

RITTENDEN H. C. A N D K R SO N . No nam e
is more intimately associated with the rise
and development of Macoupin County and
its financial prosperity than that of the late lamented
Crittenden II. C. Anderson, who was for many
years one of its most prominent business men and
valued citizens. It gives us pleasure to place in
this volume his portrait, and the following review
of his life and work which has been lovingly and
carefully prepared by his nephew, W. E. P. Ander-
son, at the request of the publishers, and is an elo-
quent and just tribute to the great worth and. abil-
ity of the departed.

Crittenden H. C. Anderson was born near Hop-
kinsville. Christian County, Ky., January 26, 1819.
He was the eldest son and child in a family of eight
children of Col. James C. and Ann R. Anderson,
who were of Irish and Scotch descent. He came
to Illinois with his parents when he was about six-
teen years old, arriving at Cariinville (which was
then a mere hamlet) October 27, 1834. camping
out on the first night after his arrival with his fa-
ther, mother, brothers and sisters, on the lot where
the residence of .Judge Tap pen is now located on
First South Street, one block southeast of the
Court House, the site of which was then covered
with timber and hazel brush. Dining their first
winter here the family lived at Cariinville in a log
house, standing upon the lot where the present
post-office is now located on the east side of the
public square.

In the spring of 1835 his father, having entered
four hundred acres of land on section 11, Cariin-
ville Township, the family removed to it, and our
subject made himself generally useful in bringing

the farm into cultivation, and in improving the

home with such facilities as were afforded at that
early day. The elder Anderson, with the vigor,
energy and push characteristic of l he early pioneer,
desiring to improve the opportunities afforded in a
country indicating a rapid growth and rise in the
value of the unbroken prairie soil, at once exten-
sively entered into buying and selling land and
Stock, driving the stock to the nearest market. St.
Louis. For a couple of years or so, the manage-
ment of the farm and looking after the family gen-
erally fell upon young Crittenden. At the early
age <>f nineteen, however, as he developed an apt-
ness tor trading, and displayed good judgment as
to the quality and value of land, he became the
companion and business associate of his father in
dealing in land and in stock generally. They trav-
ersed the country in all directions, and for long dis-
tances, for the purpose of buying hogs and cattle,
frequently going together on horseback and driv-
ing cattle as far north as Wisconsin and Michigan
tn a market, and also driving stock of all kinds
overland to the St. Louis market. At one lime
they were offered forty acres of land now in the
heart of the city of Chicago for a cow, which was
declined.

On April 14. 1840, our subject was united in
marriage with Mary .1. Glass, a sister of the late
Robert W. Glass. Taking his wife to the home of
his parents, they continued to reside there until the
spring of 1841. when they settled upon the farm
given to him by his father; this is now known as
the homestead of Malcolm M. Anderson, and is the
south half of section II. Cariinville Township.
The happiness of their union was of brief duration,
his wife dying .May 1, 1841, leaving to his care an
infant son. James Henrj Anderson, who died Octo-
ber 28, 1854, aged thirteen years, live months and
twenty-four days. Together with his little son
Mr. Anderson again became a member of the home
circle under the parental roof, where he continued
to oversee his farm, and to deal in stock and land
as previously, residing there until his marriage No-
vember 14, 1850, to Miss Mary E. Cole. He again
look up his residence on his farm, where he con-
ducted agricultuial pursuits and trading generally.

In the summer of 1851 the dreaded disease

216

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

cholera struck this neighborhood, from which Mr.
Anderson's father died August 1 I; the wife of Ins
brother Erasmus S. Anderson. August 16, Erasmus
himself August 26; and his mother, August 27.
This was a period which tried men's hearts; but
with unswerving fidelity and love for his kindred
which knew no fear, our subject nursed and cared
for each one of these during their last sickness;
taking his brother Erasmus and his little hoy. W.
E. P. Anderson, then only fifteen months old, to
his own house and ministering to the wants of each.
On account of the scarcity of help, he was com-
pelled to assist in the sad duty of digging the graves
and depositing the remains of each of these loved
ones in their last resting place.

In the month of November, 1852, our subject
removed to the farm now owned by Henry C. An-
derson, near the fair-grounds. Here he still con-
tinued his old business until the month of May,
1853. when lie formed a partnership with his
brother-in-law, Dr. R. W. Glass. Under the firm
name of Anderson & Glass, they opened the first
exclusive drug store at Carlinville, in :> little frame
building, located on the northwest corner of the
public square, when' now stands the three-story
brick building erected by Capl. W. 11. Dugger in
1868.

In 1855-56, Mr. Anderson, in connection with
William II. Rider, erected the three-story brick
building on the east side of the public square, re-
cently known as the "Duplex Building." and which
was the first three-story building ever erected in
the city or county. To the lower floor of this
building, the stock of drugs was removed the spring
of 185G, and in the fall of that year Mr. Anderson
removed his family to it, occupying the second and
third stories as a residence. Here January 20,
In.'iT his wife died, leaving to him the care of their
only child, John C. who was 'hen only two and a
half years old, having been born August 31, 1854.
On October 20, 1857, our subject was married to
Mary J. Stratton, the only child of Marshall II.
and Rebecca (Blackburn) Stratton. By this mar-
riage three children were born: Mary J., born De-
( ember 27. 1858, died August 19, I860; Virginia,
bore August 21, 1861, died February 25. 1867; and
Effie M.. born June 18, 1864, now the wife of Will-

iam L. Mounts, to whom she was married June 18,
1884. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Anderson
boarded with the family of Dr. Glass until the
month of April, 1858, when he purchased and re-
moved to the property on East Main Street, adjoin-
ing the residence of Joseph Bird.

In the year 1860 Mr. Anderson retired from the
drug business, having sold his interest to his part-
ner, and again engaged in farming, feeding and
grazing cattle, and general trading. Having de-
voted much of his life to the buying and selling of
real-estate, he became quite familiar with the title
to the same for many miles around the county -scat,
and could with great accuracy repeat from memory
the descriptions and the various transfers of the
land. In 1868 he opened an abstract and real-
estate office in a room in the Chestnut and Dubois
building, adjoining the law office of the Hon. C. A.
Walker. He continued in that business, until Feb-
ruary, 1870, when he opened a banking house un-
der the name of the Henderson Loan and Real-
estate Association. This was a private corporation,
hi' being the sole stockholder and he continued the
same in its corporate capacity until April :!0, 1878,
when he surrendered the charter of the corpora-
tion and organized the business as a private bank,
under the name of the Banking House of C. H. C.
Anderson.

He was exceedingly fortunate in his selection of
a cashier and confidential business manager, and
that, together with his own business conservatism
and caution, served to increase the business from a
capital of 15,000, the amount required by the char-
ter of the corporation when he established the
bank, to a paid up capital of $100,000, with a sur-
plus of $5,000, exclusive of losses incident to any
banking business, which had prior thereto been
charged to the expense account, July 10, 1889,
when he associated with himself his two children,
John C. Anderson and Effie Anderson Mounts.
The banking business is still carried on by them,
under the supervision of the same faithful cashier
and business manager selected by their father. Mr.
Anderson was eminently successful as a financier)
and left to his heirs an estate valued at nearly a
quarter of a million dollars. In the accumulation
of this vast property lie displayed business talents

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RKCORD.

■.'17

of a rare order, that were inherent in himself, and
were not the results of education. Hi' was not an
educated man in (lie ordinary acceptation of the
word, as his early advantages for schooling were
limited, being confined to acquiring a common
km. wledge of reading, spelling, writing and cipher-
ing to the ''Rule of Three."

While our subject was more than ordinarily suc-
cessful as a business man in gathering together this
world's goods, yet his financial career met with
many obstacles and reverses in its pathway, and
frequently caused him to do his share of "'floor
walking." His plans, like those of many other
Often miscarried, and many for whose prompt pay-
ment he pledged himself failed to meet their obliga-
tions, and threw the burden upon him. He wit-
nessed four of the financial panics which swept our
country, and felt effectively the force of three of
them, viz: those of 1857. 1873 and 1878. In 1857.
the safe of lis drug store, which was the depository
(there being no bank in that town then) of must of
the citizens and business men of Carlinville, was
taken into the street, blo.vn open and robbed of
several thousand dollars, entailing a heavy loss
upon himself as well as upon others at a very criti-
cal time.

In 1873. although his bank was in its infancy, it
had to withstand the ordeal of a several days' run.
On the morning of January 15, 1878. immediately
after opening his bank for the day's business, he
received notice that the oldest bank of the city bad
assigned. Conscious of the fact that the excite-
ment and fear of panic to follow would result in
temporarily closing his doors, nevertheless, know-
ing his solvency and trusting to a confiding public,
he promptly met the withdrawal of his depositors
during the day. At closing time, when waited upon
by three of his principal mercantile depositors to
ascertain his ability to stand a precipitated '•run,"
he frankly informed them that his depositors could
close his doors, but that they could not -break
him;" upon invitation from him to go behind the
counter and make a thorough examination of his
assets and liabilities, the investigation resulted in
twelve of the depositors of the bank, whose finan-
cial standing gave satisfaction, executing to Samuel
T. Mayo a power of attorney, authorising him to

sign their individual names as guarantors for the
payment of any claim against iii> bank. So great,
however, was the confidence and faith of bis deposi-
tors in his integrity and in the solidity of his bank.
that only :i few availed themselves of this security.

During his active business life Mr. Anderson oc-
cupied many positions of trust in the settlement of
estates in the capacity of executor, administrator
ami guardian, without his honesty or integrity ever
being (-tilled into question, with one exception
which terminated in the Presiding Judge dismissing
the bill and paying him a high tribute from the
Bench for a seventeen years' faithful, successful
and honest service to his wards. In dealing with
his fellow men in all the ups and downs of a busi-
ness life, it was no', a question with him as to his
individual action what is legally right or wrong,
but what is right between man and man, and lie was
governed accordingly, frequently refusing to avail
himself of legal defenses in order to escape liability.
He acted upon the principle that a man's word
ought to be his bond on all occasions, lb' insisted
on what was his <\uv. but adhered stronglj to the
principle of "live and lei live," and so long as a
debtor manifested a disposition of honesty and fair
dealing, he was never pushed to the wall, unless :i^
a last re.surt. in order to protect himself against
other creditors.

While no man felt a keener pleasure and enjoy-
ment in the respect, trust and confidence tendered
him by his friends and fellow-men, yet our subject
was averse to pushing himself forward in an\ man-
ner for the purpose of gaining applause or notoriety.
In his charities, though not demonstrative, yet he
appreciated the fact that out of the abundance with
which he was blessed, he owed a share to the
unfortunate, and he always responded in some
measure to the solicitations made upon him for be-
nevolent purposes. In his personal habits and ex-
penditures, while not penurious in any sense, he
practiced rigid simplicity, and indignantly repelled
any act which had the appearance of ostentation or
display; so regardful was he for the feelings of his
friends and patrons with whom he came in daily
contact, that it was his constant aim to refrain from
any act which indicated distinction. He lilt that
he was only one of a great ma>s of humanity, that

218

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RKCORD.

it was not wealth or position alone which made the
man, and the greatest satisfaction that prosperity
afforded him was the fact that it enabled him to be
of that much more service and benefit to the com-
munity generally. As a friend, he was loyal and
unflinching with his heart and purse, often running
the risk of financial embarrassment to himself in
order to oblige or help a friend or patron in need.
Socially, it afforded him enjoyment and pleasure to
have his friends and acquaintances partake of his
hospitality, and he was especially fond of having
young people around hira. He had his faults and
eccentricities, but they were in a large measure
overshadowed by the promptings of a noble and
sympathetic heart, and he left to his children the
enduring inheritance of a name and memory re-
spe< ted, honored and revered by all who knew him
and a life record worthy of the emulation of his
posterity.

In 1855, during the Pitner revival. Mr. Ander-
son connected himself with the Carlinville Metho-
dist Episcopal Church; and while not an active
participant in the inside work of the church, he
served many years upon the Board of Trustees, was
a large contributor to its support and to the erec-
tion of its present house of worship in this city.
His social relations were with the Masonic frafcr.
nity, and for twenly-eight years he was a devoted
member of the Mt. Nebo Lodge, No. 78, serving
for many years as its Treasurer; always insisting
that if the principles of the order were lived up to
by its members, man would attain as near perfec-
tion as possible on this earth.

In politics, Mr. Anderson was originally a Whig,
casting his Hist vote in 1840 for William Henry
Harrison, and upon the disruption of that party he
identified himself with the Democratic party, with
which he affiliated the remainder of his life. He
was strong in his parly convictions, though not in
any sense a politician, and always accorded the
greatest respect to the opinions of his opponents.
He was a member of the first City Council of Car-
linville upon its organization as a municipality.

In the spring of 1871 our subject purchased and
removed to his late home in the north part of the
city near the Fair grounds. Although living some
distance from his business, unless confined hy sick-

ness, he was always the first one to arrive at the
.bank in the morning, ami the last to leave at night.
It was in this attractive home, surrounded by lov-
ing friends, that be calmly awaited life's great end,
anil from it his spirit at length took flight when re
leased from the weary body. July 2, 1889, after
suffering for several months from a gradual break-
ing down of his system, he was stricken with a slight
attack of paralysis. In a few days, however, he
had materially recovered from its effects; but real-
izing that his time on earth was near at an end, he
faced the situation bravely, and expressed himself
freely as thinking that he had out-lived his useful-
ness, that he could no longer be of assistance to him-
self or his fellow-men, and saying that he was not
only willing but anxious for the final summons.
Though confined to the house for several months,
he was free from suffering, and retained his mental
faculties until a few days prior to his decease. Re-
ceiving all the care and attention in ministering to
his needs that a loving and devoted family could
render, January 10, 18110, at mid-day, he peacefully
dropped into the sleep that knows no awakening,
surrounded by his family. Surviving him are his
widow, Mary .1. Anderson; his son, John C. An-
derson; his daughter, Effie A. Mounts; his nephew,
William E. P. Anderson; his brothers, Malcolm
M. and Henry C. Anderson; and his sister, Mary
Ann Anderson, the wife of William C. Anderson,
of Shaw's Point Township. A sister, Maria C.
Adams, wife of Austin Adams, died a few days
prior to his demise.

Such is the private history of one who was an
active participant for fifty -six years in the growth
and development of Macoupin County; he coming
here when it was a vast wilderness, but thinly set-
tled. In this tribute to his memory, there has been
no attempt on the part of the writer to misrepre-
sent or overdraw the facts embodied in this bio-
graphical sketch, and as far as possible he has en-
deavored to avoid inaccuracies or the appearance
of giving any statement a "varnished character."
The facts are such as he has been able to gather
from the recollections of others, and his individual
knowledge of many of the occurrences mentioned,
derived by an intimate association wi'h the subject
of thirty years' duration ; all of which are prompted

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

219

!>y a heart overflowing with gratitude, and in order
to give to the descendants of the subject an oppor-
tunity to avail themselves of such traLs in his
Character as are worthy of adoption.

/\y\ ARTIN N. Gl' LICK, who owns and
operates a fine farm of one hundred
! and sixty acres on section 10, Hilyard
Township, is numbered among the pioneers
of the county of 1841, his residence here covering
a period of half a century. He was born in Clark
County. Ind.. August 16, 1815. and comes of an
old family of New Jersey. His grandfather, Nicho-
las Gulick, was born in that State, and was of Hol-
land extraction, the family having been founded
in tiiis country by Holland emigrants, who crossed
the water in the early part of the seventeenth cen-
tury. Nicholas Gulick grew to manhood as a
fanner, and married Elizabeth Gano, daughter of
William Gano, one of the colony of French Hu-
guenots, who emigrated from Europe prior to the
Revolutionary War. He lived and died in Hun-
terdon County, N. J., where the colony first set-
tled. It was after the birth of a part of their
children that Nicholas Gulick and his wife, in the
latter part of the eighteenth century, removed to
New York, settling on the banks of Seneca Lake,
in Seneca County, where he developed a good farm,
making it his home until his death, at the age of
eighty-eight years. His wife had attained the ad-
vanced age of ninety-two years at her death. They
were connected with the German Reformed Church,
and were prominent people in the community
where they made their home. They- lived at
the time of the Revolution, and it is thought
Nicholas Gulick served his country in that
struggle.

William Gulick, father of our subject, was also
a native of New Jersey, and the third in a large
family. He grew to manhood upon the banks of
Seneca Lake, and remained with his parents until
he began life on his own account, when he went
into the pine regions of Pennsylvania. As he lost
money in that section, he removed to Cincinnati,

Ohio, wheie he engaged in teaching and surveying
until he joined William MeFarland, then Sheriff of
Hamilton County, and went to Scott County, Ind.,
where he laid out and founded the town of Lexing-
ton in the early part of the present century. It
became the seat of justice and its growth was
rapid. Some years later .Mr. Gulick went to Clark
County, Ind.. where he engaged in surveying and
teaching, and subsequently embarked in the milling
business on Fourteen Mile (.'reek, his being one
of the first mills of that, part of the State. He
married Miss Sarah Adams, a native of Kentucky,
and a daughter of Martin and Jane (Matthews)
Adams, who were natives of Maryland and of
Scotch-Irish descent. Some years after their mar-
riage they removed from Maryland to Kentucky.
and in later years went to Clark County, Ind..
where Mr. Adams died at the age of sixty-six
years, his wife's death occurring at the age of
ninety-five. They both died on the old homestead.
They were well known people of Clark County,
and were members of the Seceder Presbyterian
Church. In 1820 Mr. Gulick failed in his milling
enterprise and about the same time he lost his wife,
who at her death left three children, one of whom
has since passed away, Elizabeth, wife of James M.
Carson. Our subject and Mrs. Mary Bain, of
Albia. Monroe County, Iowa, are still living.

William G. Gulick was a second lime married in
Clark County, Ind.. the lady of his choice being
Martha Richie, who was born in Pennsylvania, but
reared in Ohio, and went to Indiana after she was
grown, her parents having died in the Buckeye
State. Following his second marriage, Mr. Gulick
removed with his family in 1821 to Cincinnati.
Ohio, where his death occurred in July, 1832, dur-
ing the cholera epidemic. His wife survived hint
many years and at lenghth passed away in Dela-
ware County , Ohio. In polities he always voted
the Whig ticket, and during the War of 1812 he
served as a soldier under Gen. Harrison. He filled
the office of Territorial Magistrate for four years.
and again served in the saute capacity after the
State was admitted to the Union, lie was a prom-
inent and well-known man in Southern Indiana, and
his loss was the occasion of deep regret to many
friends.

220

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

Our subject is the second in order of birth of
three children. His educational advantages were
extremely limited in his youth, but by extensive
and varied reading he has gained a practical know-
ledge and become a well-informed man. He was
first married in Clark County, End., to Miss Eleanor
Welch, who was born in that county, and was a
daughtei of Patrick and Eleanor (Kelly) Welch,
who were natives of Kentucky, but spent the
greater part of their life in Indiana. Mrs. Gulick
died fit her home in this county in the spring of
1848. at the age of twenty-eight years, leaving
three children: Mary, wife of Lewis R. Phelps,
Lincoln. Neb.; .Tames EL, who wedded Laura
Palmer, and is a farmer id' Orange County, Cal. ;
and Eleanor, wife of C. J. Davidson, who is also
engaged in farming in Orange County. Mr. Gu-
lick's second marriage was celebrated in Carrollton,
Greene County. Miss -lane Vanarsdall becoming
his wife. She was born in Kentucky, and with her
parents removed to Greene County, III., where she
remained until her marriage. Her father, Peter
Vanarsdall, subsequently removed to Brighton,
where both he and his wife died. They were Pres-
byterians. Mr. Gulick was again married in Jer-
seyville. leading to the marriage altar Mi*s Anna
C. Phelps, who was born in Westford, Otsego
County, N. Y., September 11, 1827, and is a
daughter of Joshua and Annis (Curtis) Phelps,
natives of Connecticut and the Empire Slate re-
spectively. Her father was first married in Con-
necticut to Betsy Peek, who died in New York,
leaving nine children. His second wife survived
her marriage seven years, and at her death left
only one daughter, Mrs. Gulick. A third time
Mr. Phelps was married, when he wedded Sarah
Buckley, of New York, who accompanied him to
the AVest. They located in Jersey County. III.
Mr. Phelps, who was horn in the year 1775, died in
1853, in Brown County, III. His wife died in
Jersey ville. in 1889, at the age of eighty nine
years.

Mrs. Gulick is a lady of intelligence and culture,
and for some \ ears before her marriage she success-
fully engaged in teaching. Their union has been
blessed with four children — Alice, the wife of John
B. Gooch, a farmer of Plain view; Sarah, wife of

Arthur II. Iluniston, of Aurora, 111.; Olive N.. who
is engaged in teaching; and M attic R., tiie young-
est who is still at home.

Mr. and M.S. Gulick are leading members and
active workers in the Presbyterian Church, and are

pi incut people of the community. In politics

he was an old line Whig, and cast his first vote for
William Henry Harrison, and his second vote was for
tiie same man. On the organization of the Repub-
lican party he joined its ranks, and cast his last
ballot for the grandson of the Tippecanoe hero,
President Benjamin Harrison. Mr. Gulick. since
coming to this county, has been numbered among
the representative and progressive citizens of Hil-
yard Township, and has a host of warm friends
among the pioneers of the county and those of
later arrivals. Our subject's grandfather, Adams,
on his mother's side, went from Kentucky, in com-
pany with others, in 1811. to where Terrc Haute,
End., now stands, and put in a crop of corn, then
went hack to Kentucky, expecting to return in the
tall, hut the Indian troubles prevented their doing
so.

w OSEPH M. CASTLEL, a prominent and
highly respected farmer residing on section
5, Bird Township, belongs to an old Ten-
nessee family. His father, James M. Casteel,
and his mother Susan (Lnderwood) Casteel, came
from Tennessee to this county in 1854, and made
their home in Bird Township. The father died
not many years after coming to the new home, but
the mother survives and now at an advanced age
makes her home with her children. These worthy
parents had a family of eleven children, six of
whom grew to maturity, and took their places in
life, being an honor to their parents, and of use in
the community where they live.

Our subject was one of the older members of the
family. He was born in Blount County, Tenn.,
March 10, 1835. When his parents migrated to
Macoupin County, this State, he came with them
and made his home with them until his marriage.
This interesting and momentous event occurred
April 8, 1859, and the ceremony took place in Mis-

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

221

Bouri. The young man routed land in Macoupin
County until 1864, when he bought a small farm
near Chiln Church in Bird Township. There they
lived for two years, when he sold this land and
somewhat later bought the farm where lie now re-
sides on section 5, of the same county. He owns
one hundred and twenty-one acres of excellent soil
and upon it was placed all necessary improve-
ments.

Mrs. Casteel bore the maiden name of Minerva
A. I. aster. Her parents were Enoch and Charity
(Hill ) Caster, who came to this county from Greene
County at quite an early day and made their home
in Bird Township, until called hence by death.
They were the parents of ten children, five sons and
five daughters. Their daughter, Minerva, who be-
came Mrs. Casteel, was the fourth in order of birth.
She was born in Nashville, Tenn., May 13, 184-1.
To tier have been given nine children, who were
named as follows: Douglas A., who married Miss
Phoebe Cald win; Eudora A., who became the wife
of Thomas E. Joiner; Robert E., who married
Irene Dundon ; Jennie E., who is Mrs. Isaac
Vaughn; Minnie A.. Joseph E., Lula M., who died
when an infant; Mollie A. and Samuel J. Mr. and
Mrs. Casteel are both earnest and efficient members
of the Baptist Church, in which they find a broad
field for labor and influence, and all the family
find comfort in the same church, in the faith of
which they are bringing up their household. His
political views are embodied m the declarations of
of the Democratic party in the support of which
he is earnest and aggressive.

-m

fL^ ENRY L. FAHRENKROG, who is engaged
\ in farming and dairying on section 30, Hil-
yard Township, is of German birth. He
was born in Iiolstein, June 30, 1831, and
is a son of. Henry and Christina Fahrenkrog, who
wore also born and reared in the same province
where they began their domestic life anil resided
until the death of the husband and father, which
occurred in 1833. His widow was a second time
married, becoming the wife of Henry Kardell, an
ex-Prussian soldier, with whom she afterward

came to the United States in 1855. They first
settled in Cleveland, Ohio, but after two years took
up '.heir residence in Madison County. 111., where
Mr. Kardell died al the age of sixtj years. Hi-
wife survived him some years and passed away
at the age of seventy-three, she was the mother
of live children, two sons and three daughters, all
born of her first marriage.

Our subject was reared ami educated in his
native province and when about twenty-two years
of age started for America, determined to seek his
fortune in the New World. He has never had oc-
casion to regret so doing for he lias prospered and
acquired a good property. He sailed from Ham-
burg and after a long and tedious voyage of eleven
weeks landed in New York City from whence he
made his way to Cleveland, Ohio, in August, 1855.
The following spring witnessed his arrival in Mac-
oupin County, and shortly afterward in the city
of Blinker Hill he led to the marriage altar Miss
Fredericka Herbst, who was born in Holstein. tier-
many, January 28, 1841. Her parents lived and.
died there, her mother departing this life when
Mrs. Fahrenkrog was quite young. Her father was
married a second time and died at an advanced age.
The wife of our subject was only sixteen years
of age when she ami an older sister stalled alone
for America. They came to Macoupin County,
settling in Bunker Hill, where two years later she
gave her hand in marriage to Mr. Fahrenkrog.
They have resided upon their present farm since
1868, covering a period of twenty-three consec-
utive years. Before thai lime Mr. Fahrenkrog
worked as a farm hand and lived upon rented land
until by his industry and economy he had acquired
a sufficient capital to purchase his present home-
stead. His landed possessions aggregate one hun-
dred and sixty acres, all of which is under a high
state of cultivation. He raises such cereals as are
adapted to this climate and m addition docs quite
an extensive business as a dairy farmer, keeping
about twenty-five milch cows for this purpose.
lie also raises other slock of good grades and is
regarded as one of the enterprising and progressive
farmers of the township. lie has ever been true
to his duties of citizenship and lakes a C mend-
able interest in everything pertaining to the wel-

222

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

fare of the community. In politics he is a Repub-
lican and be find his wife are members of the
Lutheran Church.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Fahrenkrog have been born
the following children: William J. IL, who aids
his father in operating the home farm and has
served as Township Assessor and Collector for two
years, being a leading citizen of the community;
Augusta L. M.. wife of .Andrew Iluber, whose
sketch appears elsewhere in this work: Dora .1. F..
at home; Henry L. F., who is employed as salesman
in the mercantile establishment of Andrew Iluber;
Joseph F. W. and Amelia \V. F., who are still un-
der the parental roof. They have lost two child-
ren, Bertha and Charlie, both of whom died in
childhood.

fcg*S3— -■

-j ERDINAND STRATMANN is a representa-
tive and successful fanner of Honey Point
Township, his farm consisting of two
hundred and forty acres of well-improved land.
He is a native of Prussia, the date of his
birth being November 11, 1828. His father. grand-
father and great-grandfather were all natives of
the German Fatherland. The latter. William Strat-
mann, was a farmer, and was a member of the mil-
ilia. He was a life-long resident of Prussia. His
son John, grandfather of our subject, also followed
farming, and likewise belonged to the militia. His
life was wholly passed in the land of his nativity.

Joseph Stratmann. father of Ferdinand, was
reared, married and always lived in Prussia. For a
time he served in the regular army. He bought a
tract of land near the village of Burarn, and there
engaged in agricultural pursuits until death closed
his mortal career. He was the father of live
children.

Ferdinand Stratmann was the only one of the
family who came to America. He attended school
from the age of seven until he was fourteen years old
and then gave his father his assistance on the farm.
In 1849 he enlisted in the Prussian army, and
after serving faithfully three years was honorably
discharged with a good record as a soldier. He
was offered a commission if lie would continue in
the service, but he refused. His thoughts had al-

ready turned toward the United Stales of America,
the Mecca of so many of his countrymen, and Feb-
ruary 26, 1853, he set sail for this country on the
ship '•Rebecca," and landed at New Orleans the 7th
of the following May. His entire wealth at that
time consisted of $50, but he had health, muscle
and good habits to rely upon, and was therefore
well prepared to ecounter whatever might befall
nini in the struggle to better his condition. From
the Crescent City he went to St. Louis, the trip
consuming one week's time, and from there he
went to Alton, where he hired out as a teamster at
a pottery for three years. At the expiration of
that time he rented his employer's farm for a terra
of nine years. In 1865 he bought a farm of one
hundred acres in Montgomery County, but after
living on it two years he sold it, and purchased a
farm of eighty acres on section .'111, Honey Point
Township. He was very successful in his farming
operations anil made money enough to buy another
farm of one hundred and sixty acres on the same
seel ion. Later he traded the first farm for the one
he now occupies on section 25, of the same town-
ship, which compares favorably in point of culti
vation and improvement with any in its vicinity.
September 21, 1856, Mr. Stratmann was married
to Miss Dina Bartman. who was also a native of
Prussia. Five sons were born of their happy union,
a 3 follows, — loseph, Charles, John, William and
Tony. November 27. 1*72. death crossed the
threshold of the home of our subject and took
from it the beloved wife and mother. Though her
life was closed ere it had passed its meridian she
left behind her a goodlv record in all the relations
that she sustained towards others, and her memory
is cherished in the hearts of those who knew and
loved her. Mr. Stratmann has always been a great
reader, and as he possesses a clear brain is well
posted on general subjects. He is both a good
German and English scholar, and appreciating the
value of a good education has given his children
every advantage in his power to secure one. be-
sides assisting them financially to start in the bat-
tle of life. He bears a line character among his
neighbors and associates for the undoubted pro-
bity of his character and in him the St. Aloysius
Catholic Church at Litchfield finds one of its most
valued members.

IIBRARY
OF THE

HNIVF^itv f - •

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

225

OL. J. R. MILES, who is living at Miles
Station, is one of the most prominent citi-
zens in the county, the active part which
be lias taken in the upbuilding and development of

its best interests and his service in the late war,
having made him widely and favorably known.
This work would be incomplete without this sketch,
and with pleasure we present it and his portrait to
the readers of the Record. A native of Kentucky
he was born in 1820, and in his youth came to Illi-
nois with his parents, who in 1832, settled in Ma-
coupin County, becoming pioneers of Brighton
Township, where the}' lived until called to their
final rest.

His father, Alex Miles, was born in North Caro-
lina, whence he went to Kentucky. He became a
successful farmer of this State and died at an ad-
vanced age. In Tennessee he was joined in wedlock
with Miss Mary Irvin, a native of Georgia, who
went to Tennessee with her parents, where they
spent their remaining days. Her father was a hero
of the Revolution, having served for seven years
in that struggle for independence. Mrs. Mary
Miles died in this county when well advanced in
years, and like her husband was descended from
good English ancestry. Roth were members of the
Methodist Church, and Alex Miles was also a faith-
ful soldier of his country. Although young he
served for six months in the Colonial Army when
the Colonies were trying to throw off the 3 r okc of
British oppression, and throughout the War of
1812, followed the stars and stripes.

We now take up the personal history of the Col-
onel, who for sixty years has resided in Macoupin
County. He can remember when there were no
roads here, there being an unbroken prairie over
which one could ride for miles without fence or
house intercepting his progress. Jerseyville, Alton
and Carlinville were then all mere hamlets, and it
often required a week to make a trip to mill. Wild
game of all kinds, including deer was seen in abund-
ance and supplied the table with meat. With the
history of this part of the county. Col. Miles has
been prominently identified, aiding in its growth
and progress in many ways. He built the first mill
in this part of the county, and in October, 18C7,
founded the village which in his honor bears his

name. It was largely through his influence that
the Chicago & Alton Railroad was built through
the town, and in fact few enterprises have been es-
tablished in this part of the county without receiv-
ing his aid and support. Much land he has devel-
oped and he still owns large tracts of valuable
prairie Burrounding Miles Station, which he cleared,
developed and improved, placing it under a high
state of cultivation. Enterprising and industrious
he had not long engaged in business before he was
reaping a good income as the reward of his labors,
and a successful business career has made him a
wealthy man.

For his brilliant career as a soldier, Col. Miles
deserves great honor. He formed a company in
the beginning of the late war, which on the Uth
of August. 18G1, was organized as Company F, of
the Twenty-Seventh Illinois Infantry. After
drilling for a time at Camp Butler, the troops went
to Cairo, 111., and later met the enemy in battle at
Belmont, Mo., where the regiment showed that its
men were of true mettle. On their return to Cairo
liny were assigned to the Fleet Brigade, and orders
came to move on to Island No. 10. The Colonel's
regiment was the first to reach the Island on the
morning of the engagement. After the battle they
went with Commodore Foote down the river to
Ft. Pillow and later to Corinth, where they re-
mained until after the evacuation of that place.

In 1862, Mr. Miles was promoted to the rank of
Colonel. In the campaign of that year he partici-
pated in the battles of Chickamauga, Mission Ridge
and Chattanooga, and then went to relieve Gen.
Sherman, having participated in some of the hard-
est fought battles of the war. I lis men conducted
themselves with credit, reflecting honor upon their
commander and his tactics. He continued in com-
mand of the regiment until his term of service
expired and was then discharged. He escaped
without wounds or injury, and although his service
was often arduous he never succumbed to sickness,
but each day reported for duty and when the bugle
rang out its call for battle was found in the saddle
at the head of his men. At the battle of Chatta-
nooga he had many narrow escapes, and at Chicka-
mauga his field glass and sword handle were shot
off, and his horse was shot from under him. His

226

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

clothes were several times pierced with bullets but
lie seemed to wear a charmed life and at the head
of his troop often led the regiment to victory. The
brigade to which he belonged was never driven off
the field of battle after having once taken its stand,
and the Twenty-Seventh Illinois Infantry was es-
pecially commended for meritorious conduct.

In this county, Col. Miles was united in marriage
with Miss Eliza A. Stratum, a native of Kentucky,
who when a child came with her mother to Illinois.
Her father, Robinson Stratton, died in Kentucky.
Her mother survived him for some time and at
length passed away in this State. In 1889, the
Colonel was called upon to mourn the loss of his
wife, who died at the age of fifty seven years. She
was a most estimable lady, a member of the Meth-
odist Church, and together they had traveled life's
journey for many years, sharing its joys and sor-
rows, its adversity and its pleasure. She left three
children: Samuel who married -Miss olive Copley,
and is a merchant of Vilas, Wilson County, Kan.;
J. R. Frank, who married Miss Carra Bailey, and
is a real estate dealer of St. Louis, and Charlotte
M., widow of James Moffet, who lives with ber
father.

In politics, the Colonel is a stanch supporter of
Republican principles, and takes deep interest in
the success of his party, bin has never sought polit-
ical preferment for himself. Few men have so long
been identified with the county's history, for most
of those who came about the time that he located
here, have removed hence or else have been called
to the land whence no traveler returns. His life
is well worthy of perpetuation in this volume, for
to the pioneers is due a debt of gratitude which
can never be repaid in coming generations. His
army record is one of which he and his may well
be proud, for the part which he bore in the si nig-
gle to preserve the union was no sinecure.

-4-

-3*e— -*—

WILLIAM M. SMITH. Many families of
Macoupin County are of Southern stock
and birth, having come to this State from
Kentucky in the early days, as they sought in Illi-
nois a new home upon the untrodden prairies of a

free State. James Smith, the father of our subject,
was born in Lincoln County, Ky., and the mother,
l'enninah Smith, was also a native of the same lo-
cality. Their first Northern home was in Orange
County, lnd.. and from there they came to Greene
County, this State in 1831, and here the father died.
The mother still survives and has now reached a
very advanced age.

The subject of this sketch was the eldest in a
family of five children, his natal day being January
20„ 1828. He was born in Orange County, lnd ,
but grew to manhood in Greene County, 111., and
lived with his parents until his marriage which took
place in Greene County. March 3d, 1853. His wife
bore the maiden name of Sarah M. Smith, daughter
of 'Daniel and Lucy Ann (Face) Smith, natives of
Virginia and Kentucky respectively, who came
from Kentucky to Greene County, 111., in 1834.
Here the father died but the mother still survives.
Mrs. Sarah Smith was the second in a large fam-
ily of eleven children, and was born in Greene
County. 111., August. 8, 1836. After ber marriage
with our subject they made their home in Greene
County and resided there until March, 1805, when
they settled on section 7, Barr Township, where
they have since been residents. Substantial im-
provements and good buildings have been placed
upon the farm by Mr. Smith who now owns one
hundred and thirty-one acres all of which is in a
fine condition for agriculture.

The domestic life of this happy couple was
crowned by the birth of three children, all of whom
grew to maturity and established homes of their
own. Martha E. is the wife of J. C. Howell, and
they have four living children, namely: Maud M.,
Ilallie R., Bertie 1'.. and Eva G. These grand-
children are the darlings of their grandparents who
delight to re-icw their youth in the lives of these
little oaes. Frederick grew to manhood and mar-
ried Miss P. B. Reynolds, but died at the age of
twenty-three years. Charles H. is married to Miss
Emma Melvin.

Mr. Smith has been School Director and in this
capacity has exercised a strong influence in favor
of progress and a liberal education. His political
views ally him with the Democratic party. During
the war he was drafted, but as he felt that his

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RKCoKI).

227

young family then needed a father's care lie fur-
nished a substitute. In the United Baptist Church
Mr. and Mrs. Smith are active and useful members,
the latter being especially useful in Sunday-school
and in all religious work. She is a lady of unu-
sually strong and lovely character and of great
capabilities and is most highly esteemed by all who
have the honor to be her friends. The pleasant
home of the Smiths is the scene of true hospitality
and genial true fellowship and all who visit it once
wish to come again within the pleasant sphere of
its influence.

U|>J

^ HARLES I'.LACK. 'I
II owner of the farm loc

^^&y Shipman Township, is

HARLES I5LACK. The resident on and
located on section 17, of
ip, is the gentleman whose
name is at the head of this sketch. His father was
Robert Black who was probably born in Pennsyl-
vania. His mother was Isabella (Skelton) Black.
They came from Pennsylvania to Ohio aTid settled
in the Hocking Valley where both died after a life
of usefulness, the mother rearing a family of six
children, imbuing their young minds with an early
sense of honor and uprightness that has served
them well in their relations both business and social
throughout their career.

Our subject was born in Hocking County, Ohio,
April 3, 1838. He was reared on a farm and con-
tinued to live in his native State anil county until
he grew to manhood. He left Ohio in 1850, and
went to Pettis County, Mo., remaining there about
thirteen months, during which lime he was engaged
in farming. He then came to Greene County, III.,
anil worked out by the month until 1863.

Soon after coming here he was attracted by the
sweet face and pleasant manners of Miss Martha J.
Baldwin, and in the words of Burns "To see her
was to love her," and August 16, 1863, the .young
couple were married. The lady was a daughter of
Benjamin ami Martha (Vcrner) Baldwin, the for-
mer a native of Virginia and the latter of Ohio.
They became residents of Greene Count}* in 1850,
where they lived until the time of their death. A
large family of thirteen children came to bless and

brighten the evening of their life and to encircle the
hearthstone. Of these Mrs. Black was one of the
younger members. She was born in Warren County
Ohio, April 3, 1839. Soon after the marriage of
our subject and his lady the}- came to Macoupin
County, in September, 1863, and settled in Shipman
Township on section 17, where they have since
resided.

Mr. and Mrs. Black are the parents of two chil-
dren, Charles W. and Eva A. She is the wife of
C. A. Andrews. The original of this sketch has
always been engaged in agricultural pursuits. He
is the owner of one hundred and sixty-one acres
of land, that has rewarded his efforts, by producing
large crops, in proportion to the number of acres
cultivated. He has erected a fine house surrounded
with pleasant piazzas from which a charming view
may be had of the surrounding country, that in
itself is a picture which only a Corot would be
worthy of attempting to reproduce on canvas. The
other buildings upon the place are all well-appointed
and in good condition. He has added every im-
provement within his means to make the place
homelike and comfortable. Politically he is a
Democrat, affiliating with that party on eveiy tenet
of its platform.

ICIIARD DUCKELS came to this county
while it was still in its infancy, and casting
M\i in his lot with its pioneer farmers, has
been no unimportant factoi in develop-
ing its agricultural resources. He has acquired
wealth by unremitting and well-directed toil and
a few years ago he retired from active business
to his present home in Western Mound Township,
though he still retains possession of his extensive
and well-ordered farm.

Mr. Duckels was born in the village of Goole,
Yorkshire, England, July 4, 1811. Thomas Duck-
els was the name of his father, and he was a native
of the same village, born in 1770. He in turn was
a son of Richard Duckels, who was born in York-
shire in 1734, and there spent his entire life, car-

228

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

rying on his trade as a blacksmith. The father of
our subject was reared to agricultural pursuits, and
was a life-long resident of his native shire, dying
at the ripe age of seventy-eight years. The maiden
name of his wife, a native of Armein, Yorkshire,
was Ann Golton. She died at the age of seventy-
two years. She and her husband were both devout
Christians and members of the Methodist Episco-
pal Church. They had a family of eight children,
three of whom came to America — Nancy, who
married John Leach; William, who is dead; and
our subject.

The latter of whom we write passed his boyhood
and early manhood on his native soil. Deeming
that he could better his condition by emigration to
America, in 1835 he set sail for these shores from
Hull in the month of May, and landed at New
York City after a voyage of seven weeks. He
came directly to Illinois by the way of the Hudson
River to Albany, thence by Erie Canal to Buffalo,
from there by the lakes to Chicago, whence he con-
tinued on his journey by team to La Salle, where he
embarked on the Illinois River for Naples, and
from that point he proceeded by team to Jackson-
ville, that long and tiresome route being the most
expeditious in those days. He was a single man
at that time and not ready to make a permanent
settlement. He therefore remained some three
months at Jacksonville, and then after visiting this
county he took up his residence at Alton, where he
obtained employment in the store of Godfrey &
Gilman, general merchants. In 1841 he returned
to England and revisited the scenes of his youth a
few months.

Coming back to this country in 1842, Mr. Duckels
bought a farm one mile south of Chesterfield, and
dwelt upon it three years. He next bought a farm
three miles west of the village, upon which he
lived until 1889. In that year he took possession
of his present cozy and well-appointed home,
where he and his estimable wife live retired from
active labor, as they have accumulated a goodly
amount of property and are well fortified against
want, so that they can pass the sunset of life se-
renely, untrammelled by the cares and anxieties
that beset their earlier years. Our subject has
bought land from time to time until he now owns

seven hundred acres of as fine fanning land as can
be found in this section, and by his industr}- he has
placed himself among the most substantial citizens
of the county. Mr. Duckels was married Febru-
ary 23, 1843, to Miss Elizabeth Morris, and their
wedded life has been blessed by the following chil-
dren: Mahilda, their eldest born, who married
Jefferson Lee, and died at the age of forty-seven
years; Edwin, who died at the age of nine years;
Richard, who died at the age of five years; George;
John; Henry C. ; Oscar; Ann Lovelace; Laura;
Rollie: Clara and Grant.

Mrs. Duckels was born near Thorne, Yorkshire,
England, January 18, 1827. Her father, John
Morris, who was one of the early pioneers of this
county, was also a native of Yorkshire, and was
there reared and married, Ann Sextz, likewise of
that shire, becoming Ins wife. He resided near
Thorne in that old English shire until 1832, when
he and his wife and nine children set sail from Liv-
erpool in an American-bound vessel, and after a
voyage of seven weeks landed at New York. They
came directly to Illinois, and locating in what is
now Western Mound Township, Mr. Morris bought
a squatter's claim to a tract of Government land,
which he entered at the land office at Edwardsville.
There was a small cabin on the place at the time of
purchase, which the family occupied the succeed-
ing nine years, when the father replaced it by a
substantial frame house in which he resided a
number of years. He then removed to Chester-
field and lived retired the remainder of his life,
both he and his good wife dying in their home
there at a ripe old age.

SipOHN M. AHRENS is now living a retired
life in Staunton. Of the citizens whom
Germany has furnished to this county none
are more worthy of a representation in this
volume than the gentleman whose name heads this
sketch. He was born in the Province of Holstein,
German}-, November 30, 1828, and in that country
his parents, John and Antje (Lucks) Ahrens, spent
their entire lives. They were hard-working yet

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

229

respected German people and both lived to about
the age of four-score years. Throughout their
lives they were members of the Lutheran Church
and to gain a livelihood Mr. Ahrens followed farm-
ing. The family numbered seven children, four
sons and three daughters, and live of that number
came to the United States. Matilda, now Mrs.
Runge, was the first to cross the water and is now
living in Nokoui's, 111., where her husband, Fred
Ruuge, now deceased, followed blacksini thing for
some years. Peter is now married and resides in
Gillespie, where he is engaged in merchandising.
John M. was the third to cross the water. Lena
was married in Germany to Fritz Barnholdt, who
died after they came to America and she is now
the wife of John Sievers, of Grand Island, Neb.
Catherina was married in Holstein to John Muller,
who there died, after which she came to America.
Her home is now in Cleveland, < )hio.

Our subject is a self-made man and whatever
success he has met with in life is due to his own
efforts. Since the early age of sixteen he had been
dependent upon his own resources. He then began
to learn the cabinet-maker's trade and when he had
mastered the business he sailed from Hamburg in
June, 1855, on the vessel '-Christian VIII, " which
after a voyage of forty-two days dropped anchor
in the harbor of New York. He entered upon
his business career in this country as a cabinet-
maker, following that trade until 18C2, when he
embarked in otlier pursuits.

In 1858 Mr. Ahrens formed a matrimonial alli-
ance with Miss Elizabeth Ruther, who was born in
Hanover, Germany, December 14, 1841, and when
a child of six summers was brought to America
by her parents, Frederick and Dora (Grim) Ruther,
who took passage from Bremen, sailed to New York,
and thence came to Illinois, settling on a farm near
Alton. In 1851 the family came to Macoupin
County, locating in Staunton Township, where Mr.
Ruther is still living at the age of eighty-two years.
His wife died in Fostersburg in 1848, at a com-
paratively early age. She was a member of the
Lutheran Church, with which her husband has al-
ways been identified. Mrs. Ahrens remained with
her parents until her marriage. She has proved a
true helpmate to him and has made for him a

pleasant home. Their union has been blessed with
twelve children, two of whom are now deceased.
Dora, who became the wife of Edgar Golightly,
died at the birth of her first child, a son, when
twenty six years of age. Louis died in April,
1S72. The surviving members of the family are
John C, who married Cora Gray, of St. Louis,
and is now a lumber merchant of Rivcrdalc, 111.
Peter, who wedded Gertrude Jacobs, and is now
operating the lumber-yard at this place with his
brother. Henry A. operates a lumber-yard in
Effingham, 111.; Albert E., a partner of Peter;
Mary E.. Emma M., Ada L., Sophia C, Walter L.
and Carrie B. Mr. and Mrs. Ahrens have also
given a home to their grandson, Lester E. Golightly
who has resided with his grandparents from
infancy.

No family in Staunton has been more promi-
nently connected with the business interests of the
place than the Ahrens. Our subject, in 18G2,
opened a furniture store and about the same time
established a lumber-yard, the first in the place and
these two lines of business he successfully carried
on until April 24, 1.S74, when he sold out the fur-
niture store to Jacob Moebrman, the present pro-
prietor. He continued the lumber business and
afterward associated with him his son, P. F., while
in connection with another son Lc established a
lumber-yard in Worden, 111. Soon John C. became
sole proprietor and sold out in 1888, removing to
Effingham, where he again established business in
the same line. The lumber-yard in Staunton be-
came under the control of P. F. and A. E., in 1887,
and they are now doing a good business. In July,
1888, II. A. Ahrens and W. I. Gates purchased a
stock of general merchandise continuing business
until March, 1889, when Mr. Gates sold out to our
subject, who continued a member of the firm until
September, 1.S90, when he turned over the business
to his son. Mr. Ahrens came to Staunton when it
was a small town and with its development and
growth he has been prominently identified. His
business interests have been extensive and he has
thereby acquired a handsome property, yet he has
also found time to devote to public interests and
has frequently served his fellow-townsmen in offi-
cial positions. He filled the office of Councilman,

230

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL REBORD.

was one terra President of the Board, for four
terms was Township Clerk and for the long period
of fifteen years has served on the School Board.
In politics he is a stanch Republican and the duties
of the offices he ever faithfully discharged. Both
lie and his wife are leading members and active
workers in the Methodist Church in which he has
served as Class Leader, Sunday school Superin-
tendent and is now Trustee. His upright, life has
been such as to win the confidence and regard of
all and the prosperity which has crowned his efforts
is but the just reward of a well-spent life.

c*l IVILLIAM T. BEEBY. It is pleasing to see
\f\//l a man wuo ' liavin 8 attained years that en-
tyy/ title him to the rest and enjoyment of a
retrospective view of life, can retire from the
active pursuits and enjoy the afternoon of his ex-
istence in the peace and serenity consequent upon
a knowledge that he has made his struggle well
and bravely, and that the results are the award of
his present peaceful condition. The gentleman
whose name is at the head of this sketch, after a
long life spent in agricultural pursuits, is now en-
joying the fruits of his labor in his pleasant home
at Piasa.

Mr. Beeby, who is a retired farmer, is of English
birth and parentage, his advent into this world
being in Lincolnshire, England, March 27, 1833.
His father belonged to the class of mechanics,
being a plumber and glazier, and having but little
else with which to endow his son he early taught
him his own trade, and by working with his father,
our subject soon became an expert.

William Beeby disposed of a small farm which
he had owned in the Mother Country and with the
proceeds emigrated to America in December, 1851.
After landing he proceeded at once to Piasa where
he arrived two weeks before Christmas. He first
made his living by working out by the month at
farm labor which course he pursued for eight
years. By that lime his attachment to a bright
young lady whose name was Mary Ann Ballett, a
fellow-countrywoman of his own, caused him to

look forward anxiously for a home of his own.
The young couple were married March 27, 1859,
and they immediately settled on section 31, where
he had purchased a farm of one hundred and forty
acres. Mrs. Beeby as before said was born in Eng-
land, her birthplace being Dorsetshire, and her
birthday being July 11, 1838. She was about
eleven years old, when with her parents she came
to America in the spring of 1851. They belonged
to the farming class and made their living in this
way.

Our subject carried on his farm for over twenty
years, making it pay handsomely for the care that
he bestowed upon it. At the end of this time he
sold his place and free from business cares he paid
a visit to his native land, being gone about six
months. He could not, however, make up his
in i ml to remain there, so strong was the hold that
his adopted country hail upon him. He settled in
Piasa in the spring of 1881 where he has since
lived a retired life. The issues of the day as to
local and national government are of great inter-
est to Mr. Beeby and his preference in politics is
with the Republican party. Mrs. Beeby is a mem-
ber of the Methodist Church. The parents of our
subject lived and died in Lincolnshire, England.
The father was Caesar Jones Beeby. His mother
was Elizabeth (Kew) Beeby. Mrs. Beeby's parents
emigrated to this country in the spring of 1851
and passed away in Shipman Township. Her
father was William Ballett and her mother was
Elizabeth (Cobb) Ballett.

!JG^

^fH)HN JASPER COX, a prominent citizen
and business man of Virden Township, was
born in Illinois, about a mile and a half from
Gilliam's Mound in Jersey County, January
20, 1835. His father, Henry Cox, was a Kentuck-
ian, born near Lexington, and a son of one of the
pioneers of that State, who was murdered by the
Indians. Being left an orphan at an early age,
Henry Cox was reared by strangers, and learned
the trade of a brickmaker, which he followed at
various places in Kentucky and Ohio until 1834,

PORTRAIT AND BI( ><;i.',\ PHICAL RECORD.

23 1

when lie removed to Illinois. He waa accompanied
in his journey by his wife and six children, and
they came by team, camping out on the <vay.

Henry Cox purchased a tract of land near Gil-
barn's Mound, and there built the house in which
our subject was horn, lie developed his farm and
at the same time worked at his trade. In 1837 he
went to Calhoun County, and settled four miles
south of Harden, buying one hundred and sixty
acres of land. Here he built a log house ana made
it his home until his death in 1846. The maiden
name of the mother of our subject was Louisa
I'tt. She was horn in Scioto County, Ohio, and
her father, Jacob UU, was a native of Pennsylvania
and of German ancestry. She died in Calhoun
County, about the year 184'.) having reared and
given faithful training to eight children.

Being left an orphan, John Cox went to reside
with his uncle, Jacob I'tt, of Jersey County, and
attended the first public school which was estab-
lished in the log school house. The seats were made
of split logs, one side being hewn smooth, ami with
wooden pins for legs. There were no desks in
front and no support for the backs of these primi-
tive seals. He assisted his uncle on the farm and
at the age of nineteen began to learn the trade of
a blacksmith at Waverly, Morgan County, and
Yirden, this county. A fie" some five months he
came to this county, in 1853, and settled in Yirden
where he worked for Aaron Maulsbury for two
years, and then engaged in farming which he car-
ried on successfully until 18G2.

During the second year of the war this young
man was deeply stirred by the repeated calls of
President Lincoln for more troops to carry on the
War of the Rebellion, and he finally decided to en-
list February 13, 18G2, in Company F, First Illi-
nois Light Artillery in which he served until the
close of the war. For two weeks this company was
guarding prisoners at Cam)) Butler, and in March
was sent to St. Louis, and then on to Shiloh, arriv-
ing there on April 7, the day after the battle. From
there these brave boys were sent forward to Cor-
inth to guard the supply trains, and spent the sum-
mer in the vicinity of Memphis. In November,
1862. they started on the Yieksburg Campaign and
wintered at Grand Junction, Tenn. Continuing

their march in the spring toward Yieksburg, they
participated in that campaign. At the time of the
'all of Vicksburg they were guarding the Black
River at Oak Ridge. They took part in the battle
of Jackson, Miss., and then returned to Oak Ridge
ami camped there before returning to Vicksburg
and .Memphis, whence they marched to Chattanooga
and took part in the tight at Missionary Ridge.
They were sent forward to Knoxville to relieve
Burnside, and finding the rebels had retreated, re-
turned to Scottsborough, Ala., and spent the winter
there guarding railroads.

The Atlanta campaign next engaged the services
of this valiant body of artillery, as in 1864 they
joined Sherman's forces and took part in the battles
of Resaca, Buzzard's Roost, Kencsaw Mountain.
Rome, ami other encounters. They were engaged
in the conflicts around Atlanta and the battle of
Jonesboro. They returned to Nashville in time to
be present at Hood's defeat, after which they did
garrison duty at that city until March, 1865, when
they were discharged and returned home.

The brave soldier was ready to settle down to
more peaceful pursuits, and now resumed his old
trade of lilaeksmithing, and soon formed a partner-
ship with Mr. Lafayette Kiggins to do general
lilaeksmithing and farm work. This connection
lasted until 1872 when our subject formed a part-
nership with Messrs. A. C. Hutchinson and Richard
hall with the firm name of Cox, Hutchinson &
Ball. Mr. Hutchinson's death in 1880 removed him
from the firm which is now known as Cox A- Ball.

The happy marital union of John J. Cox and
Mary A. Emerson was solemnized at the home of
the bride's parents in 1SC7. This lady is English
by birth, her natal day being July 16, 1847, and
her parents being William and Elizabeth Emerson.
She was three years old when she came with them
to the United States, and was a child of seven years
when she reached this county. For a more ex-
tended history of this family the reader will con-
sult the sketch of Mr. William Emerson in this
volume.

Both Mr. and Mrs. Cox arc earnest Christian
workers, the former in connection with the Baptist
Church, where he labors in Sunday-school, and for
three years was the Superintendent, and his wife in

232

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

connection with the Methodist Episcopal Church.
He cherishes the memories and associations of war
times, and is a charter member of the John Baird
Post, No. 285, G. A. R., in which he is Past Com-
mander. He is well-known in tins vicinity as the
author of a series of sketches entitled "The Sol-
diers' Experience." These were written from mem-
ory and were published in the Virden Reporter,
where they were read with great interest, not only
by his neighbors but by all who had participated
in the trying scenes of the Civil War.

<«l felLLIAM MASON, who is extensively en-
\/\/l! S a S^ in farming and stock-raising in
Wvj Brighton Township, his home being on sec-
tion 15, claims New York as the State of his nativ-
ity. He was born in Potsdam on the 15lh of Aug-
ust, 1830, and comes from one of the prominent
New England families. His father, Lawrence S.
Mason, a native of Connecticut, had learned the
trade of a cabinet-maker and wheelwright when a
young man, and following those occupations met
with excellent success. He was a first time mar-
ried in the State of his nativity but after the birth
of two children, that wife died, and in the Green
Mountain State, he was joined in wedlock with
Miss Sarah French, who was born in New Haven,
Vt. Her father, Nathaniel French, was a promi-
nent farmer and honored early settler of Addison
County, where in the midst of the forest he devel-
oped a farm, upon which he resided more than
sixty years, his death occurring when pas 1 the age
of eighty years. His wife, whose maiden name
was Beulah Champion, passed away some time be-
fore at the age of eighty-two years. After Law-
rence Mason was a second time married he lemoved
with his wife to Potsdam, N. Y., where three sons
and two daughters were born unto them. Of that
family all are yet living and are married. They
recently held a re-union in New Haven, Vt., where
for the first time in more than forty years the live
children had been together. They are all now
well-to-do and prosperous people and have become
respected members of society. Mr. Mason, the

father, spent his last years in Potsdam, N. Y.,
where for so long he had made his home and fol-
lowed his trade. He passed away at the age of
seventy-two years, after which his widow returned
to her father's old homestead in New Haven, Vt.,
where she remained until called to her final rest in
1S77, or about at the age of eighty-four years. She
was a life-long member of the Baptist Church and
a noble Christian lady who won the love of all
with whom she came in contact. The old home-
stead in New Haven, upon which she was born and
died, is now owned by her son, C. W. Mason.

In the St&te of his nativity, the subject of this
sketch was carefully reared and received a good
practical education. Believing that the West fur-
nished better opportunities for young men, he
started for Illinois, when twenty-two years of age
and in October, 1852, became a resident of
Brighton Township, Macoupin County. Two years
later be purchased two hundred acres of land, a
part of his present farm and built thereon a dwell-
ing. His arrangements for a home were further
completed by his marriage with Miss Nancy M.
Hoyt, an old acquaintance whom he had known in
the East, but who was then living in Kendall
County, 111. She was born in New Haven, V*.,
July 2, 1833, and is a daughter of Harvey and
Hanna L. (Wynn) Hoyt. She, too, belongs to an
tarly family, her grandfather being Dr. Jacob
Hoyt, who lived and died in New Haven, Conn.
Her parents were natives of the Green Moun-
tain State, and her mother died at the age of
thirty-two years, when Mrs. Mason was a young
girl of only uine summers. The father died at the
home of his daughter at the age of seventy -one
years. He was four times married and was a mem-
ber of the Baptist Church.

Mrs. Mason came to Illinois with her family in
1850, the family first locating in Kendall County.
By her marriage there liave been born six children
— Clara E., wife of John Jones, a resident farmer
of Brighton Township; Flora M., wife of John A.
Bennett, a farmer living in Princeton, Franklin
County, Kan.; Charles A., a prominent stock dealei
living near Denver, Col., on the Union Pacific
Railroad; William II., Albert L., and Franklin
E., at home. They also lost one child, Lucius H.,

UBBAXY

or v

&tt^es2st —

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

235

who died at the age of eighteen months. Mr. and
Mrs. Mason are numbered among the prominent
people in this part of the county, ranking high in
the social world and holding an enviable position
in the esteem of their man}' friends. In the Meth-
odist Church they are active workers and Mr. Ma-
son has for many years been Steward and Class
leader, serving in the former capacity at the pres-
ent time. In polities he is a warm advocate of
Republican principles but prefers to devote his at-
tention to his business rather than engage in strife
for public office. He has been eminently success-
ful in his business career, being now numbered
among the substantial farmers of the community.
He owns three hundred and twenty acres of valua-
ble land in Brighton Township, and in connection
with its cultivation is extensively engaged in stock
raising, making a specialty of the breeding of
Merino sheep, which he has shipped in large num-
bers throughout the West. Ample shelter is pro-
vided for his stock and grain in large barns and
other outbuildings, and in 1883, his first home was
replaced by one of the finest farm resiliences in the
county, built in the most modern style, tastefully
furnished and supplied with all the conveniences
and comfort which goto make life worth the liv-
ing. The Mason family are people of intelligence
and worth, well deserving of a representation in
this volume.

ON. BALFOUR COWEN, of Yirden, is
fljj held in distinction for the loyalty of his
citizenship, and for his worth as a man of
of unblemished character. As a member
of the bar his legal attainments have placed him
among the most successful of his profession now
practicing before the courts of this and adjoining
counties. It is therefore with pleasure that we
invite the attention of the reader to his portrait on
the opposite page, and the following brief account
of his life and lineage.

Our subject comes of sterling New- England
stock, and is a native of that part of the country,
born at Bath, N. EL, June 30, 1832. His father,

Zachariah Cowen, was a native of the same state,
ami was a son of another Zachariah Cowen, who is
thought to have been born in New England and
to have been of Welsh descent. Grandfather
Cowen was a carpenter and millwright, and fol-
lowed those trades some years in his early man-
hood. He had a decided talent for music, and
Anally turned his attention to teaching that art,
being an instructor in both vocal and instrumental
music. His last years were passed in New Hamp-
shire.

The father of our subject learned the trade of
a bricklayer in his youth, and was engaged at
that trade in his native State until 1835. In that
year he left his old home among the Granite hills
of New Hampshire to seek a new one on the fer-
tile prairies of this Slate, being accompanied
hither by his wife and three sous. The momen-
tous journey was made entirely by land with a pair
of horses and a wagon, in which were carried a
portion of the household goods. After three
months the little family arrived at its destination
in that part of Greene County now included in
Jersey County. The father entered a quarter of a
section of land from the Government, four and
one-half miles northeast of Jerseyville, and also
bought eighty acres of land on Hawkins Prairie,
eight miles northeast of Jerseyville. In the double
log cabin that stood on the latter place tiie fam-
ily took up its abode, occupying one-half of it,
while Mr. Cowen's brother William took posses-
sion of the other part. At that time the surround-
ing country was in its primitive condition, with
the exception of the few improvements made by
the handful of settlers that had located here and
there; deer, wild turkeys, wolves and other wild
animals still lingered in abundance on the prairies
and in the timber. There were no railways, no
canals, and no good roads, travelers passing from
settlement to settlement over trackless prairies or
following some Indian trail.

Mr. Cowen busied himself in preparing land and
in putting in a crop in tin: spring of 1886, and
then worked at his trade. In July of the same
year he was stricken by typhus fever, and on the
29th of that month death cut short his career
while he was yet in life's prime, thus depriving

236

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

his family of a kind husband and wise father, and
the community of a valuable pioneer, whose place
it was hard to fill. His brother, William, had died
three days previous of the same dread disease, and
both were buried in the old cemetery at Jersey-
ville.

The mother of our subject, who bore the maiden
name of Mary Titus, was reared in Colebrook,
N. 11., and was a daughter of Eleazer and Martha
(Cleveland) Titus. Eleazer Titus was born at
Attleboro, Mass., whence his parents removed to
Landaff, N. II., in 1764, with their two children,
he being borne in the arms of his mother, who
rode on horseback, with the other child behind
her. The great-grandfather of our subject had
visited that part of the country before, and had
marked the way by blazing trees. He improved
a farm at Landaff, and there died in the fullness
of years. The grandfather of our subject passed
his early life there, but at the time of his marriage
settled on a tract of forest land in Colebrook.
He developed a tine farm from the wilderness,
which is now owned and occupied by his daugh-
ter, Mrs. C. B. Libby, and her family. He and
his wife are reposing side by side in the little fam-
ily cemetery on the home farm where they spent
their wedded life and toiled hand in hand to build
up a home.

By the death of the father the mother of our
subject was left a widow with three small children
to care for. January 8, 1831), she married Ezekiel
Gillham, a native of South Carolina and a pioneer
of Jersey County. At that lime he was living
nine miles north of Alton, on the Grafton road,
and there the mother made her home until Mr.
Gillham's death in 1848. She had two children
by that marriage — Henry Clay and Maria. The
former died at the age of twenty years. Maria
married Maj. John W. Lawrence at Carbondale,
111., and both are now deceased. The mother of
our subject was married a third time, October 23,
1855, becoming the wife of the Rev. William Jer-
ome, a native of New York and a minister of the
Methodist Episcopal Church. They removed to
Carbondale, Jackson County, where he died June
15, 1865.

Mrs. Jerome then came to Virden, and resided

with her son Lewellyn until her death, September
■25, 1877. She had three children by her first mar-
riage — Llewellyn, Norredden and Balfour. Llew-
ellyn (dwen was for a time a teacher, and then
engaged in mercantile business. He enlisted March
8, 1862, in Company D, Ninth Illinois Cavalry,
and was promoted to the First Lieutenancy, and
then to be Captain of his company. He served
with honor with his regiment until the close of
the war, and after that resumed his business as a
merchant at Virden, carrying it on until 1878. In
that year he disposed of his mercantile interests
and opened a Home for commercial travelers at
Virden, which he managed until his death, April
29, 1881.

Norrendcn Cowen was reared and educated in
Jersey County. After selling his interest in his
father's estate to his brothers, he entered Govern-
ment land near Walsh ville, Montgomery County,
lie improved a farm, and was a resident there at
the time of his enlistment, in August, 1861, in
Company L. Third Illinois Cavalry. He was
soon commissioned First Lieutenant of his com-
pany, and was subsequently promoted to the rank
of Captain. In the winter of 1861-62 he was
Judge Advocate of a court martial of the Depart-
ment of Missouri. He was wounded in a skir-
mish, and on that account was oblige! to resign
his commission in May, 1864. As soon as he re-
covered from his injuries he engaged in milling at
Litchfield with Messrs. Best and Sparks. Subse-
quently he went to Cailyle, Clinton County, to
engage in the same business with the same linn,
of which he became a member, and resided there
until his death, October 12, 1872. His wife, Mel-
vina J., died in Carlyle Febuary 12, 1890.

Balfour Cowen was but three years old when
his parents brought him from his New England.
birthplace to the frontier wilds of Illinois. The
first school that he attended was a free school estab-
lished by old Dr. Hamilton at Otterville, and en-
dowed by him. That was before the era of public
schools in this State, as then the schools were con-
ducted on the subscription plan. After the death
of his stepfather, Gillham, his mother removed
with her children to the land which his father had
entered from the Government, and she built

PORTRAIT AND BIOG RAPII1CAL RECORD.

2.37

thereou. The brothers farmed the place together
until I s.j2, when our subject bought out the inter

ests of his brothers and continued to till the soil
until 1857. In that year he sold the <>hl home-
stead and in February, 1858, came to Virden to
devote himself to mercantile pursuits with his
brothers.

Mr. Cowen continued actively engaged in busi-
ness here until 1802, when he left his partner,
Gordon Evans, in charge, in order that he might
offer his services to his country to aid in subdu-
ing the great rebellion that was threatening the
very life of the Union. He enlisted August 13,
18G2. in Company G, One Hundred and Twenty-
second Illinois Infantry, and was honored by
being elected Captain of his company. He was
captured December 20, 1 8 ( i 2 , at Trenton, Tenn.,
by Forest's command in a raid on the Ohio &
Mobile Railroad, lie was marched under guard
one week and was then paroled and sent North,
where he was exchanged in the spring of 1863.
Our gallant Captain then joined his company at
Salisbury, Tenn., and was with his regiment in all
its subsequent campaigns and battles until peace
was declared. He did good service at the battle
of Tupelo, inspired his company to do brave deeds
at Nashille, and again gave proof of his excel-
lent soldierly qualities and worth as a leader before
Ft. Blakely, Ala. He was honorably discharged
with his regiment at Mobile, Ala., July 15, 1865,
but mustered out at Springfield, 111., August :),
the same year.

At the close of his military life Capt. Cowen re-
turned to Virden and at once commenced the stud)'
of law. April 5, 1867, he was examined before
the Supreme Bench and was admitted to the bar,
after passing the crucial test successfully, Judges
P. II. Walker, Sidney Breeze and C. 1>. Lawrence
signing his certificate. He immediate!)' opened an
office at Virden, and has been in active practice
here since, lie has an extensive clientage to whose
interest he pays the closest attention, and has thus
secured the undounded confidence of all who ap-
peal to him for legal advice, or who have entrusted
to him the management of important affairs. His
standing as one of our best lawyers is too well-
known to need comment here.

Mr. Cowen and Miss Amanda Bartlett were
united in marriage March 29, L 855, and they have
been eminently happy in their domestic relations.
Mrs. Cowen is a native of Wellsville, Me., born
December 28, 1833, and a daughter of Joseph W.
and Mary (Twombley) Bartlett. For her parental
history see sketch of Dr. Bartlett. Mr. and Mrs.
Cowen have five children — Nora, Amanda, Blanche
B.. Elmer A., Henry II. and Mary A. Nora is the
wife of the Rev. Eben C. Sage, Ph. D., a gradu-
ate of Yale College, and pastor of the Grand Ave-
nue Baptist Church, New Haven, Conu. They have
three children — Nora A., Eben Balfour and Tru-
man Bartlett. Elmer married Miss Nettie Reed,
and they have one child. They are residents of
Si. Joseph, Mo.

Although chiefly aborbed in his profession, our
subject has given some of his time and talent to
public service, and has filled positions of trust with
dignity ami ability. He was the first Police Mag-
istrate of Virden, and has served several terms as
City Attorney. His fellow-citizens honored him
him and themselves by electing him to represent
this district iu the Thirty-second Legislative As-
sembly of the State of Illinois. He cast his first
vote for J. C. Fremont, and has ever since been a
stanch supporter of the Republican party. Socially
he is a valued member of John Baird Post, No.
285, G. A. ]$., and of Virden Lodge, No. 161,
A. F. & A. M.

LIVER C. FORWOOD. The name at the
head of this sketch is that of a worthy mem-
ber of a family that has held an honorable
position for centuries past, its members counting
among them the distinguished professional men as
well as agriculturists who have done much to im-
prove the general condition of the community in
which they respectively live. The scion of this
family whose history it is our pleasure to here
chronicle, resides on section 21, of Sllipman Town-
ship, where he has a fine farm in an enviable state
of productiveness.

Our subject's father was Dr. Parker Forwood

238

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD

who was a native of Maryland. He was a practic-
ing physician in his native State for many years,
and there owned a large farm. Our subject's pater-
nal grandfather was John Forwood, who, like his
grandson, devoted himself to cultivating the gifts
that God allows to spring up from mother earth.
He died in Harford County, Md. Our subject's
mother was Mollie Smithson in her maiden years.
She was born in Harford County, Md., where she
was married and where her husband died in Janu-
ary, 1866, the mother still surviving.

Mr. Forwood is one of thirteen children, he being
the ninth in order of birth. Like his parents he
was born and reared in Harford County, Md., his
natal day being February 6, 1847. He continued
to live in Maryland until February, 1865, when he
came to Shipman Township. On his arrival in this
State he made his daily-bread until 1870 by work-
ing by the month for the farmers in the vicinity.
He found his wife in Shipman Township, and was
married October 12, 1870. His wife's maiden name
was Miss Emma Jolly, a daughter of Henry Jolly.
Her birth place was Shipman Township, Macoupin
County, 111., and her birth occurred on October 1,
1857. Mrs. Forwood's mother was Marian I lay-
craft. Previous to her marriage she was the widow
of Joel Parker, who died in Shipman Township,
November 28, 1843. Mr. Parker and his young
wife were married in Kentucky, and came from
there to Macoupin County in 1835, settling in
Shipman Township. The wife became the mother
of seven children by that marriage. They are
Elizabeth, Mary, Sarah, Frances H.,Elmira, Benja-
min E., and Luvinia N. The eldest daughter is
now the widow of John L. Rhoads; Mary is the
wife of F. B. Simpson; Sarah is the widow of Jack-
son Calvard; Frances H., is the widow of William
M. Simpson; Almira is the widow of James L.
Sherman; Luvinia is the wife of Thomas B. For-
wood.

Mrs. Marian Parker was married to Henry Jolly
in Shipman Township, October 10, 1850. But one
child came to grace this marriage, that is the wife
of the gentleman of whom we are writing. She
was born in Shipman Township, October 1, 1851.
Soon after the marriage of our subject he settled
in Brushy Mound Township, where he lived from

the years 1871 to 1876 inclusive, after which time
•he removed to Shipman Township, and settled on
section 21, where he has since been a resident. The
chief occupation of his life has been farming, and
he has brought to bear a native energy and stick-
to-ativeness that have insured him a success. He
owns eighty acres and has good buildings on his
farm. Mr. Forwood has held the ollice of Town-
ship Assessor. His temperance principles are evi-
dent in the fact that he is a voter with the Prohib-
itionists, and adds to that party his influence. Mr.
and Mrs. Forwood are active members of the Bap-
tist Church, taking a conspicuous [tart in every
good word and work that is there done.

FREDERICK STEIDLEY, one of the best
,,„& known of the old settlers of Barr Township,

'l\ is a son of Solomon Steidley, who was a

Marylander, and Rachel Barr who was born in New
Jersey. They came from Frederick County, Va.,
to this county in 1831, and settled in the township
which is known as Barr Township, and there lived
until their death. He passed away in 1818 and his
good wife followed him eight years later.

Our subject is the third in a large family of nine
children, being born in Virginia, July 8. 1817. He
came to tins county with his father in 1834, and
has lived in Barr Township and in Greene County,
III., from that time to this. His first marriage
united him with Catherine Heater, by whom he had
two children, who with their moiher have passed
to the other world. She died while they were liv-
ing in Gieene County. His second marriage gave
him as a wife Mary C. Martin, who bore him eleven
children, namel} r : Joseph, Martin, James, Anna
(deceased,) Mary, George, Rebecca, Rachel and
John (deceased,) Charlie and Minnie (deceased).
Mrs. Mary C. Steidley died in Barr Township, Jan-
uary 20, 1885.

Mr. Steidley learned the carpenter's trade, which
he has followed in connection with farming, al-
though agriculture has been his principal pursuit
in life. He owns two hundred and forty acres of

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

239

rich and arable soil which he has placed in excel-
leni condition and lias rendered doubly productive.
He is looked up to as one of the oldest settlers in
the township, and his knowledge of the early days
makes him an attractive companion, as he can en-
tertain the younger generation with many narra-
tions of the pioneer days.

VfACOI? MOEHRMAN, who is engaged in
the furniture and undertaking business on
Main Street in Staunton, where he opened
his doors for public custom April 24, 1874,
was born in Wurtemburg, Germany, on the 23d of
March, 1839, and for many generations, as far
back as history tells us, his ancestors were resi-
dents of that land. His father, Jacob Moehrman,
Sr., was also a native of the same province, where
he lived and died, passing away at the age of six-
ty-live years. He was a shoemaker by trade and
had followed that occupation throughout his busi-
ness career. He married a Wurtemburg lady-, Miss
Margaret Herb, who grew to womanhood in the
same locality as her husband. After his death she
came to America and is now living with a daugh-
ter, Mrs. Rosin Jochim, in Columbus, Ohio, at
the advanced age of eighty-three years. She is a
member of the Lutheran Church, to which Mr.
Moehrman also belonged. In their family were
seven children, five of whom came to this country,
while one is yet living in the Fatherland.

The subject of this sketch is the eldest. He re-
mained at home until fifteen years of age and then
started out in life for himself, since which time he
has been dependent upon his own resources. He
began to learn the trade of a cabinet-maker at
which he served a full apprenticeship. Also (luring
his residence in his native land he was a member
of the regular army, serving as a soldier in 1S60,
1801 ami 1862. Subsequently, in 1806, he served
in the rebellion which was then in progress in his
country, being on active duty for fourteen weeks,
dining which time he participated in the battle of
Tauberbischofscheim.

Mr. Moehrman was united in marriage with

Catherine Grossmann, who was born and reared
near the childhood home of our subject. They
began their domestic life in the Fatherland, where
one child came to bless their union and then they
started for America, taking passage at Antwerp
upon a steamer which sailed May 21, 1869. They
landed in New York and thence made their way to
Alton, where they spent two and a half years,
Mr. Moehrman working at his trade of a cabinet-
maker. He also worked in the same line and for a
similar length of time in Maltoon, whence he came
to Staunton and here purchased the furniture es-
tablishment of John M. Ahrens. Seventeen years
have since passed during which time he has
met with signal success. His stock is full and
complete and in addition to the store located on
Main Street he has a large wareroom well filled.
He also carries on the undertaking business and by
enterprise and ability has succeeded in building
up a good trade. Although he had no capital
when he came to this country he has succeeded in
acquiring a handsome competence and is num-
bered among the substantial citizens of the commu-
nity.

Mr. and Mrs. Moehrman are members of the
Lutheran Church. They now have a family of
three children, the eldest of whom, Charles F., was
educated both in the English and German lan-
guages and is now associated with his father in
the furniture store, being a promising young man
possessed of excellent business qualifications. Em-
ma and Elizabeth, the daughters, are still at home.
Mr. Moehrman and his son are Republicans in
politics.

E^^-

^|/OHN L. SOLOMON, who resides on section
17, North Palmyra Township, is a son of
Judge Lewis Solomon, deceased, and a
nephew of 1). N. Solomon, of Palmyra.
The father was one of the oldest settlers of Macou-
pin County and was intimately identified with the
history of this part of the State. He was born
April 1, 1812, in Muhlenberg County, Ky., and
came of Welsh and English origin. His grand-

240

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

father, who bore the name of Lewis Solomon, took
part in the Revolutionary War, being one of that
daring band who, under the gallant Marion, did
such good service in the campaigns in South Caro-
lina. Judge Solomon's grandmother was a woman
of remarkable bravery and determination and on
one occasion drove the British out of her house
with a poker.

The grandfather of our subject removed from
Kentucky to Illinois in 1825. The mother and
three youngest children rode in the cart with the
household goods and the remainder of the family
trudged on foot. The family fortunes had been
sadly impaired b3 7 the breaking of the Common-
wealth Lank of Kentucky and they had no money
with which to purchase land. Their first settle-
ment was in Morgan County, but in the spring of
1827 the family removed to Macoupin County and
located two miles north of Palmyra. The grand-
parents died here in 1819 and 1850.

Judge Solomon was in his fifteenth year when he
came to Ibis county. He had attended a subscrip-
tion school in Kentucky for a few months only ami
herein the summer of 1829 he attended a school
kept by his brother-in.Iaw. James Howard. He
was a boy of bright faculties and learned rapidly,
excelling in mathematics. In the year 1832, when
twenty years old, Lewis Solomon volunteered in
the Black Hawk War, and during this two months'
campaign experienced considerable hardship. He
was in the engagement twenty miles from Dixon
and at one time the men in his regiment were five
days without bread. On starting out he weighed
one hundred and fifty pounds and lost twenty-five
during service. Subsequent to this active experi-
ence he was made Major of the Sixty-second regi-
ment of State Militia and was considered one of
the best militia officers in Illinois.

The mother of our subject was Nancy Ann Fink'.
a native of Kentucky and a daughter of John Fink.
one of the early settlers of Bair Township. Her
marriage to Lewis Solomon was solemnized June
23, 1856. By hard work and untiring enterprise
the young man accumulated a few hundred dollars
and at the time of his father's death purchased the
interest of the other- heirs to the estate and moved
onto the homestead farm, but two years previous

to his marriage he had purchased three hundred
and sixty acres of land in North Palmyra Town-
ship, where he has since made his home. He is
the owner of the largest body of land in the pos-
session of one man in this township. His first wife
died September 18, 1863. She was the mother of
twelve children, of whom nine grew to maturity.
His second marriage was with Mrs. Mary Ann (Ba-
ker) Butcher.

During the War of the Rebellion the father of
our subject was a prominent war Democrat and as-
sisted in sending to the South forty-three men from
Palmyra precinct, two of whom he placed in the
field with his own means. He has ever adhered to
the party which was made illustrious by the names
of Jefferson and Jackson. He received numerous
tokens of the confidence and esteem of the people
and at different times served as Constable, Assessor,
Justice of the Peace, member of the Legislature
and County Judge. In 18C1 he was made a mem-
ber of the Constitutional Convention, the nomina-
tion io which was entirely unsought. In 1870 he
was elected to the State Senate and while in the
Legislature he was an active and efficient member,
devoting his attention to such legislation as would
secure the best interests of the people. In the
Senate he served on three or four important com-
mittees and his views commanded the respect of
even his political opponents, lie was the author
of a bill giving landowners a right to redeem lands
sold at tax sales at twenty-five per cent, addition
the first six months, fifty per cent, the first twelve
months, one hundred per cent, for two years and
after that no redemption; the previous law required
an addition of one hundred per cent, penalty any
time after the sale. Scarcely a man in the county
held so many positions nor received so many marks
of public favor. Upon his character for honesty
and integrity a suspicion was never breathed. His
life was open to the view of the citizens of the
county and not a stain can be found on his record
as a public officer or as a private citizen.

Our subject was one of the youngest members of
his father's family, being born in North Palmyra
Township, March 0, 1852. Here he was reared to
manhood and here he established his home. He
was educated first in the common schools and later

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

241

in the college at Eureka. He was married in North
Otter Township August 6, 1874, and took for his
bride Rhoda, a daughter of Andrew A. and Lizzie
(Brown) Atkins. Tint, worthy couple died in
Greene County, 111., which was the native county
of their daughter Rhoda. her natal day being Sep-
tember 28, 1853. John L. Solomon has always
been engaged in agricultural pursuits and has made
a specialty of fine horses and bronze turkeys.

A serious disaster befell the household of our sub-
ject in the fall of 1879, in the destruction by fire
of their pleasant home. He has rebuilt his house
in better style than before and now owns one hun-
dred and seventy-five acres, most of which is in
North Palmyra Township. Three children have
blessed this home — Bertha,. lesse and Elzena. Jesse
died when he was about a year old. Mr. Solomon
has taken an active part in political affairs, being a
Democrat both by training and conviction. He
has held the oflice of Justice of the Peace for
four years and is an active member of the Farmer's
Alliance, bci:ig ever wide-f.wake to the interests, so-
cial and pecuniary, of the fanning community.
The excellent lady who presides witli so much
grace and dignity over his home is an earnest ami
consistent member of the Christian Church, in
which she is active for good.

OSEPI1 11. BARBER, who owns one of the
finest stock farms in the county, located on
sections 3, 4, 9 and 10, Brighton Township,
was born in the Keystone State, his birth
having occurred in Columbia County, June 23,
1825. The family was originally of Scotch ori-
gin, but in early Colonial days was established in
America. Thomas Barber, father of our subject,
was also born in Columbia County, and when he
had attained to mature years wedded Miss Mary
Henderson, a native of the same county, where
they spent their entire lives, both passing away
when past the age of three score years. They
wire representative farming people of that com-
munity, highly respected by all, and were members
of the Presbyterian Church.

In play and work, in the usual manner of
farmer lads, our subject spent the days of his
childhood and youth. He was early inured to
hard labor and the lessons of industry and self-
reliance which he then learned have remained
with him throughout the succeeding years and
proved important factors in his success. After
attaining to mature years he left the parental roof
and started out in life for himself. He deter-
mined to make tli3 West the scene of his future
labor, and on coming to Illinois, located in Chi-
cago, where he spent three years and then came to
Macoupin County. In the meantime he was mar-
ried in Mendota to Miss Elizabeth Sproule, who
was born Columbia County, Pa., and on the father's
side is of Irish descent, while her mother's people
had long been residents of the Keystone State. Her
parents both died in Pennsylvania, while she was a
child, and she came to Illinois to join her brothers
who had emigrated to this State some time before
and settled in Lee County. P.oth Mr. and Mrs.
Barber, together with their children, attend the
Methodist Church and in politics he is an old
Jackson Democrat. They are well-known citizens
of the community, having been closely connected
with the best interests of the township for many
years, and by those who know them arc held in
high regard.

Throughout his business career Mr. Barber has
engaged in general farming ani stock-raising. He
now owns an excellent farm of three hundred and
thirty-five acres, much of which is under a high
state of cultivation and yields him a golden trib-
ute for the care and labor he bestows upon it. He
raises a good grade of cattle, sheep and hogs, not
an inferior animal being seen upon the place, but.
the greater part of his attention has been devoted
to the breeding and training of thorough-bred
horses. He is a lover of the noble steed and an
excellent judge of fine horses. He owns some fine
specimens of the Wilkes blood and has several
young colts who possess all the best points of the
thorough- bred. Upon bis farm there is a good half-
mile course used by Mr. Barber in training and
developing the speed of young horses, and he has
a reputation as a trainer which extends through-
out the surrounding country. At the local fairs

242

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

he has also taken many premiums upon his other
stock.

By the union of Mr. and Mrs. Barber have been
born five children and the family circle yet re-
mains unbroken. James C, the eldest, aids his
father in the operation of the old homestead; John
E. married Miss Wildia Turk and is now engaged
as a prominent dealer and breeder of horses in
Windsor, Mo. ; Robert Lincoln is also engaged in
the operation of the home farm; Lural L. and
Margaret, both accomplished young ladies, are yet

at home.

-J»t»*^t^^^r-^«SM^*6=-

\f?ACOB M. HANSHAW. Among the old
settlers who deserve and receive the esteem
and veneration of the entire neighborhood
if) there is none probably more beloved and
respected than the gentleman whose name appears
at the head of this sketch. Ilis long residence in
North Palmyra Township and the character which
he has maintained for integrity and true-hearted
neighborliness has made him the friend of every
man. His father, Benjamin Hanshaw, was born in
Pennsylvania, and his mother, Susannah Simpson,
a native of Frederick County, Ya., grew to wom-
anhood in that State. There she was married to
Benjamin Hanshaw and after some years of resi-
dence in her native county, they removed to
Darke County, Ohio, where she died July 1"),
1852. Her husband came to Macoupin County,
this State, that same year and made his home
with our subject until his death which occurred
Feburary 5, 1878.

The subject of this sketch was the sixth in a
family of eleven children, and was born in Bote-
tourt County, Ya., August 20, 1823. There he
passed the early years of his life up to the age of
seventeen, when he came with his father to Darke
County, Ohio, where he continued to live until the
fall of 1852. He then came to this county and
made his home in North Palmyra Township, where
he has since been a resident.

Jacob Hanshaw was married in Wayne County,
Ind., October 4, 1853, to Miss Melinda M. Kittin-
ger, a daughter of David and Peggy (Helms) Kit-

tinger, Mr. Kittinger was a native of Pennsylva-
nia and his wife of Virginia. Their death occurred
in Wayne County, Ind. Mrs. Hanshaw was the
sixth in a family of eleven children. Her birth
occurred in Botetourt County, Va., March 10,
1828.

Ten children have blessed the home of Mr. and
Mrs. Hanshaw; their eldest, Rebecca G., died when
eighteen months old, and the second, Mary E.,
also passed away in infancy. Benjamin D. mar-
ried Miss Lillie Tonget, and they reside in North
Palmyra Township and have one child. Olive M.
Parthena E. is the wife of Alonzo Gant, and they
have four children living: Clarence, Ethel, Jacob
and Mary. Hattie A. is the wife of William Bar-
tun and the mother of three children: Addie, Eula
and Jennie. The next two children, Virginia and
Martin L. died in infancy, and Sarah A.. Amic M.
and Flora E. complete the circle. Agricultural
pursuits have engaged the lime and energy of Mr.
Hanshaw and he has made good improvements on
his farm of one hundred and forty acres. From
girlhood Airs. Hanshaw has been an active mem-
ber of the Methodist Chinch, in which she is a
power for good.

"jfjOIIN A. FDLLINGTON, who is one of the
honored residents of Carlinville Town-
ship, was born in East Tennessee, Decem-
ber 17, 1858. When he was twelve years
old his father, the late Elijah Fullington, with his
wife and children emigrated some three or four
hundred miles farther west to the State of Arkan-
sas. Here they established their home. In the
hard toil of the farm, John A. Fullington spent
the years of his childhood and youth. Very early
in life he developed a taste for agriculture and felt
a strong desire to become an able farmer. Upon
his arrival in Macoupin County, 111., in August,
1877, he obtained a situation as a farm lab-
orer with a view of becoming, at no distant day,
manager of a farm in his own behalf. He remained
in this occupation for two years. He was a most
exemplary young man, punctual in every duty,

ilBRAHY

OP THE

UNIVFP'jitv c c :

-»*%

':> ■ ■■: I'Vi/v^r-'J!'.-'--

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

245

never allowing li is services to be called for with-
out a ready response. Genial and sympathetic in
his nature, he has drawn around him troops of
friends. Mr. Fulliugton'a father was a Democrat

and he adheres to the same faith.

On December 25, 1879, he married Miss Melissa
Anderson, of Carlinville, 111., a lady altogether
worthy of him, cultured and refined. She is the
daughter of M. M. and Melvina Anderson, a sketch
of whose lives is presented on another page of this
volume. She was born in Carlinville, January 19,
1857, and is the mother of six children: Carrie B.,
Malcolm E., Ota M., Walter G. and Lorin E.
Death carried away one child in infancy. At the
time of his marriage our subject took upon him-
self the responsibility and management of a farm,
renting one hundred and sixty acres in Carlinville
Township on Section 18, where he has since been
a resident. Much of his time is given to stock-
raising, which he makes a special feature in his list
of profitable productions. He is laborious in the
care and attention which he bestows upon the acres
entrusted to him, the performance of his arduous
duties bringing him a very satisfactory return. In
the prosecution of his work he expends his energy
judiciously allowing himself ample time to culti-
vate m : nd and heart as well as those domestic ties
of the dearest nature. Mr. and Mrs. Eullington
are members of the Baptist Church of Carlinville.

OBERT WIIITELEV. There is no estimat-
ing the force of a quiet life of patient con-
tinuance in well doing, of unswerving
\£) fidelity to the duties of the hour. As with
beautiful flowers hidden behind stone walls, the
very air scatters far and near the fragrance of an
upright life. If trie character is good it refreshes
as the dew and makes the memory blessed for years
after mother earth claims all that is mortal.
Every beautiful virtue shines out in the life
and decks with royal purple the robe of humility.
The influence of a pure character is as potent in
the office, the shop or factory as it is in the quiet
of home or amid the worship of the sanctuary.

The friends of Mr. Whiteley recognize the nobility
of his nature and hold him in high esteem.

One of our English-born fathers who had brought
to this country the sterling qualities of the En-
glish yeomanry, Mr. Whiteley has made a success
of agriculture in the Prairie State. He resides on
section 9, Bird Township, and represents that
township on the County Board of Supervisors. He
was born near York, Yorkshire. England, in Au-
gust, 1819, and in his native place grew to mini's
estate. In 184 1 he came to America, making the
voyage in a sailing vessel and landing in New Or-
leans on March 17, of that year. He proceeded
directly to South Palmyra Township, this county,
and here established his home. But that dire
affliction of the Mississippi Valley, fever and ague.
soon attacked him and to benefit his health he spent
in New Orleans the first seven years of his resi-
dence in America. In New Orleans he followed
d raying.

Mr. Whiteley returned to Macoupin County
each spring with but one exception, when, in the
year 1849, he passed the summer season at the old
home in England. In 1851 he purchased a portion
of the farm where he now lives, and in the follow-
ing spring made it his permanent home. He was
reared on a farm in England, and agriculture has
been his chief occupation through life. He now
owns over seven hundred acres, which he has
gained by adding little by little to the two hun-
dred and ten which he purchased in 1851. He has
erected upon his farm a complete set of farm build-
ings, which are worthy the admiration of a passer-

by.

Having by arduous exertions gained a compe-
tency for his declining years Mr. Whiteley now
rents his farm and lives a retired life. He was
married in Western Mound Township, to Miss
Adeline Morris, a native of that township, who
died in December, 1869. She was the mother of
ten children, three of whom are now living, namely:
Mary A.; Sarah <>.. Mrs. James McAliney; and
Robert. The children whom they lost died when
quite young.

Mr. Whiteley has been Highway Commissioner
for nine years, has served as School Director for
sometime, and was elected Supervisor of Bird

246

PORTRAIT AND. BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

Township in the spring of 1890. lie has ever
taken an active interest in political affairs, anil is a
broad-minded and intelligent man. His earlier affil-
iations were with the Whig party, bat later he be-
came a Republican. His early religious training
at home was in the Church of England, and he is
here identified with the Episcopal Church. This
public-spirited and representative citizen is a man
of genial disposition, and his neighbors rejoice in
his prosperity.

The attention of our readers is invited to the
lithographic portrait of Mr. Whiteley which ap-
pears in connection with this brief personal notice.

KN.JAMIN F. BOWKRSOX. The gentle-
man whose name heads this sketch is oper-
ating the farm, which belongs to his mother,
located on section 9, Nilwood Township.
His father was Jacob P.owersox a native of Union
County, Pa., and his mother was Mary (Scudder)
Bowersox. They came to Macoupin County, about
1863 and settled in Nilwood Township. In 1876
the father bade a long farewell to his sorrowing
family and passed to the better land. The mother
still survives tenderly and lovingly cared for by
her affectionate children.

The original of this sketch is one of nine children,
he being the seventh. His birthplace was Miami
County, Ohio, from which place his parents emi-
grated to Macoupin County. His natal day was
•Inly 28, 1815. He was reared under his mother's
care until he arrived at manhood, remaining
under his father's roof until the family came
to this county in 1863. He was married in
Montgomery County, 111., September 1, 1868 to
Miss Sarah Studebaker, a daughter of John and
Mary (Ncffe) Studebaker who originally came from
Elkhart County, Ind., and settled in this county in
1866; here they remained about two years and then
removed to Montgomery County, 111., where the
father died November 3, 1887. Mrs. Bowersox
was born in Elkhart County, April 16, 1848. The
family remained in Macoupin County, until the
spring of 1871 when they removed to Morrison,

Montgomery County. Here our subject engaged
in carpenter work until the fall of 1875 when he
returned to Macoupin County.

Mr. Bowersox's occupation has been for the
greater part of life that of farming, in which he
carries on a general agricultural business. He re-
sides on a part of the old homestead. Mr. and
Mrs. Bowersox are the parents of three children.
They are: Jacob H., Mary M. and Darwin D. Our
subject has been the Collector for his township for
several years; both he and Mrs. Bowersox are
members of the German Baptist Church.

He of whom we write is a man of sterling integ-
rity and strong principles, unpretentious and simple
in his manners and sty lc of living, and is a true
friend and enthusiastic supporter of any means that
promise to be to the advantage of his fellow-towns
men. His wife has been his helpmate for many
yens and like Cornelia she could say to her neigh-
bors to whom life is but a festive occasion for dis-
play, in reference to her children, ''these are my
jewels." Her care for her home and family mark
her a model housewife.

^)NDIMON FANSLER is a prosperous farmer
of Barr Township, whose farm is on section
4. His father, David Pansier, was born in
Stokes County, N. C, and his mother, Polly Ship-
ley, was a native of Sullivan County, Tenn., where
the father finally died and where our subject was
born, October 12, 1827, the eldest in a family of
eight children. Here he was reared to manhood
and remained until the fall of 1847, when he en-
listed in Company A, Fifth Tennessee Regiment,
and served in the Mexican War for about five
months. Peace being declared, he returned to
Tennessee and resumed the occupations of peace.

The marriage of our subject to Miss Amanda
King, who was born in Sullivan County, Tenn., oc-
curred soon after his return from the war. They
settled in their native county and there remained
until the spring of 1852, when they came to Ma-
coupin County and settled in Barr Township,

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

247

which 1ms since been a family home. Eight chil-
dren graced their home, namely: William, who be-
came a teacher in the public schools and died in
Palmyra; Thomas, who is a resident of Chicago;
Henry, who is farming in Barr Township; Mary-
who is now Mrs. James Searcy; her first husband
was Allen Duncan and after his death she married
Mr. Searcy; Ella, the wife of R. M. McCollom;
■lames, who is living in this township; Joseph, who
is a farmer: and Halley. The mother of these
children passed away from earth in Barr Township
nearly twenty years ago.

The second marriage of Mr. Pansier united him
with Mrs. Mary E. (Dalby) Bell, the widow of
Stephen Bell and daughter of Israel and Eliza (Og-
den) Dalby. They have three children: Jennie,
Belle and Carroll. The second child died in child
hood.

Mr. Fansler has always been engaged in agricul-
tural pursuits and has made good improvements
upon his fine farm of two hundred and forty-five
acres. His political views led him to affiliate with
the Democratic party and he has been Highway
Commissioner of the township. Both he and his
excellent wife are earnest and active members of
the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which they find
a broad field of influence and effort. Mr. Pansier
fills the offices of Steward and Trustee and is highly
trusted in these official capacities.

||( SHBEL G. DAVID. Among the promi-
nent and well-known citizens of Carlin-

ville, we are pleased to mention the name
which appears at the head of this sketch,
the name of the gentleman who has been for years
identified with the Democrat of that city, and who,
since 1881, has been sole proprietor of that enter-
prising sheet which he had helped to bring to its
present prosperous condition. He was born near
Uniontown, Fayette County, Pa., March 2.5, 1832.
His father, Jesse David, born in the same county,
was a son of David G. W. David, who, as his name
indicates, was born in Wales, but came to America
when a lad in company with a brother. He re-

ceived a good education and for many years was a
teacher. He became a pioneer in Payette County,
buying lumber land near Ft. Necessity. He was
one of the pioneer teachers of that region and for
a number of years taught during the winters, and
devoted the rest of the yenr to his land. He thus
spent the remainder of his life.

The father of our subject was reared on his fa-
ther's farm in his native county, and resided there
until 1839, when he came to Illinois and settled in
Jersey County. He came by team to Brownsville,
and then by way of the Monongahcla, Ohio and
Mississippi Rivers to Alton. There he took team
again and traveled to Jersey County, where he en-
tered a tract of timber land in what is now Piasa
Township. There he built a shanty without any
floor, in which his family lived for five months
while he was building a comfortable frame house.
He cleared quite a tract of the land, and made his
home there until 1850 when he sold out and re-
moved to Macoupin County, Inlying land two miles
east of Bunker Hill, where he died in April, 1852.

The maiden name of the mother of our subject
was Barbara Pentzer. This lady was of German
ancestry but a native of Pennsylvania, being born
in Little Cove, in Bedford County, which is located
near (iettysburg. Her father, George Pentzer, was
a native of Prussia, and his father, Valentine, came
from Prussia to America with his family soon after
the Revolutionary era. He and his faithful wife
did not live long after their emigration to this
country, and left two sons and three daughters to
mourn their loss. George Pentzer was about ten
years old when his parents brought him to America
and soon after his father's death he was hired out
by the county authorities, to a distiller, who taught
him his business, lie married in Pennsylvania, a
lady of Irish birth, and when the Washingtonian
movement opened his eyes to the iniquity of the
manufacture of liquor, hegaveupthe business of
distilling, and in 1821 removed to Fayette County
and engaged in farming. Nine years later he re-
moved ter Jersey County, III., and buying a tract of
land in l'iasa Township, made it his home for some
years, after which he resided with his children anil
died at the home of his daughter Barbara, Mrs.
David, passing away in 1852, anil this daughter

248

PORTRAIT AND .BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

dying in August, 1879 at Lincoln, III. She reared
six children: our subject, Jacob P., George <>.,
Jane, Lewis D. and Samuel W.

The gentleman of whom we write is the eldest of
his father's family and after receiving a fair educa-
tion, taught school for some time and then clerked
in a store in Gillespie, until 1857. He then entered
the grain and grocery business for himself in
Gillespie and afterward in Hunker Hill. During
the days of the war, he spent several months at
Camp Butler, Springfield, as Post Sutler for the
Ninety-seventh Regiment, Illinois Infantry, and
later he went down the Mississippi River as sutler
on a boat. In July, 1863, he located at Brighton,
and formed a partnership with L. P. and E. B.
Stratton, in the grain business. In 1866, lie aban-
doned this on account of his wife's failing health,
and returned to Bunker Hill, and there remained
until after the death of his wife which occurred
July 3, 1866. After this he was engaged variously
in the milling, commission and mercantile business
in Bunker Hill, St. Louis, Leavenworth, Kan., Lin-
coln, 111., and Hamilton, Mo. After working for
some time on the Caldwell County Sentinel, lie
came in November, 1870, to Carlinville and en-
gaged with the Denim-rat in the capacity of travel-
ing agent and correspondent. While traveling
through this county as correspondent, Mr. David
made his reputation as a pleasant, ready, descrip-
tive writer. His articles were widely read and
copied by other local journals. In August 1871,
he entered the office as local editor and book-
keeper. He has a pleasant, even style of writing
and the local columns of the Democrat, were given
a new vigor and raciness by his work. In August.
1879, he bought one half of the stock of the paper.
and in 1881, he bought out his partner's interest
and since that time has been sole proprietor.

In politics, Mr. David is a Republican and he
cast his first Presidential vote for John C. Fremont.
As a man he is regarded as an upright and exem-
plary citizen and as such, he enjoys the esteem and
respect of the community. His marriage, in ( )ctober,
1855, united him with Miss Elizabeth Carter, a na-
tive of Lexington, Ky. They had one child, a son,
who has grown to manhood, and has been con-
nected with one of the St. Louis daily papers. Mrs.

Elizabeth David died July 3, 1866. On April 16,
1871, our subject was again married, being united
with Mrs. Eliza A. Stagg, of Mason City, 111., and
a native of New York. His two sons are named
Frederick E. and Herbert A.

Mr. David has been a Director of the Carlin-
ville Loan and Building Association since its or-
ganization and is an active member of the Presby-
terian Church in which he bas been an Elder for
about fifteen years. He is also prominently con-
nected with some of the social orders and belongs
to Mount Nebo Lodge No. 76, A. F. & A. M., and
to Silver Lodge No. 249, K. of H.

3€

D-.ANIEL BLODGET, deceased. Only by
| written record can we perpetuate the lives
of those who have passed away and surely
no one more deserves mention in this
volume than Daniel Blodget, who for a half century
was connected with the history of the county and
did more to upbuild Brighton than any other man.
He was born in New Hampshire on the 15th of
January, 1810, and came of good old Revolutionary
stock, his grandfather having served as a soldier
in the war for independence. His people be-
longed to a highly respected New England family.
His parents, Darius and Ellen (Flanders) Blodget,
were also natives of New England, and died in the
Granite State not many miles from the White
Mountains. Our subject lost his mother when he
quite young, after which his father was again mar-
ried. He remained at home until he had attained
his majority and when a young man of twenty-five
years he emigrated Westward, locating in this
community in 1835. From that time he was
prominently identified with the history of the com-
munity and the growth and upbuilding of Brigh-
ton. He embarked in business as a general mer-
chant, soon built up a flourishing trade and be-
came one of the leading business men of the place.
In the early days when others would hold their
property high he would sell lots very cheap so as
to induce settlers to here locate. Often times if a
poor man wished to engage in some business, if he

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

249

bad money enough to build a shop or store, Mr.
Blodget would give him the land on which to
build, lie carried on his own business with most
excellent success, becoming quite prosperous until
at length he was forced to retire on account of the
loss of his hearing some years before he died.

Our subject was the first Postmaster of Brigh-
ton, the office being established in 1835. He came
to Brighton a single man ami here married Ellen
Jones, a native of England, who came to this
country with her parents when a child, the family
settling in Brighton Township, Macoupin County,
where she grew to womanhood. She was a faithful
member of the Methodist Church and at her death
which occurred a few years after her marriage, her
loss was mourned by many friends. Mr. Blodget
was again married in Brighton, to a daughter of
Rev. Simon and Elizabeth II. (Hughes) Peter, na-
tives of Tennessee, whose people came from Mary-
land. After their marriage Mr. Peter and his
wife settled in Tennessee where he became a prom-
inent Methodist minister. He was bitterly op-
posed to slavery and when the church was divided
upon that question he took a decided stand with
the Northern church. With his family he came to
Illinois in 1829, locating in Madison County, two
miles from Monticello, where as a pioneer preacher
he labored for many years, his first district ex-
tending from Springfield to Edwardsville. lie rode
from place to place on horseback and his labors in
the cause of Christianit} - were productive of much
good. He and his wife finally retired from active
life, taking tip their residence in Brighton, where
Mr. Peter died April 12, 1877, at the age of
eighty-five years. The death of his wife occurred
March 4, 1875, when seventy -one years of age.
They were widely known for their good works and
after long and useful lives passed to their reward.
In their family were twelve children, nine of whom
arc still living. Mrs. Blodget was yet a young
maiden when her parents came to Illinois; by her
marriage she has two children — Daniel Newton,
who wedded Jennie Flanigan who is living in
Brighton; and Samuel Peter, who makes his home
with his brother, the two being engaged in farm-
ing and dairying.

Mr. Blodget lived an upright life, his public and

private career being alike above reproach. He won
many friends but made no enemies. In early life
he was a Whig in political sentiment but joined
the Republican party on its organization and be-
came one of the strongest advocates of the Union
cause (luring the rebellion. lie predicted at its out-
break that the war would not close until slavery
had been overthrown. The cause of temperance
ever found in him a warm friend and he labored
untiringly in its interest, doing much to suppress
the liquor traffic. He gave liberally of his means
to the Band of Hope in Brighton and several years
before his death voted the Prohibition ticket. He
lived as a Christian and when life's work on earth
was ended he passed to his reward November 27,
1889. Like her husband, Mrs. Blodget delights in
doing good and the poor and needy have found in
her a warm friend. At the age of twelve years she
united with the Methodist Church and has since
been one of its active and consistent members.
Her home is still in Brighton where she has con-
tinued to reside since her husband's death.

O^fl;

ILLIAM G. COLMAN, one of the self-
\f\ll made men and leading farmers of Bunker
v Y Hill Township, residing on section 25, is of
German birth and the Fatherland has furnished to
America no better citizen. He was born in the
kingdom of Hanover, on the 15th of May. 182 1,
and his parents, George and Frances Colinan, spent
'heir entire lives there. Both are now deceased,
the father having passed away at the age of sev-
enty-two years, while his wife attained to the ad-
vanced age of eighty-three. They were members
of the Lutheran ( hurch and lived the life of fann-
ing people throughout their days. They had a
large family but only three of the number ever
crossed the ocean to America. Our subject was the
first to seek a home in the United States and after
his emigration two sisters ciosscd the water — Mrs.
Aggie Cooper, a widow, now living in Madison
County, and Mrs. Annie linmenga. whose home is
in this county.

We now take up the personal history of William

250

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

Colman, in whom the people of Macoupin County
are especially interested. The advantages of his
youth were limited and during his boyhood he
learned the trade of a carpenter which he followed
during his residence in his native land. On attain-
ing to years of maturity he was united in mairiage
with Miss Hannah Schlacter, who was also bom and
reared in the kingdom of Hanover, and is a daugh-
ter of John and Emma .Schlacter who came to this
county and made Illinois their home. The father
died in Madison County and the death of the
mother occurred in Macoupin County. In religious
belief both were Lutherans and by those who knew
them they were held in high regard.

Mr. and Mrs. Colman began their domestic life
in their native land, where two children were born
unto them, after which they determined to try
their fortunes in the New World and in September,
1859, having bade good by to home and friends
they boarded the sailing vessel "Albert"' at Bre-
men, which after a long and tedious voyage reached
the port of New Orleans. Landing, they secured
passage on a boat which bore them up the Missis-
sippi River to .St. Louis, whence they went to Al-
ton. Mr. Colman was then a poor man, having no
capital with which to begin life in the New World
and as he could not purchase a farm rented land.
He had determined, however, to better his finan-
cial condition and with characteristic energy he
began his work, exercising industry and economy
until thereby he secured a sufficient sum to buy a
small piece of land. His first purchase consisted
of sixty acres, where he now lives, and to this he
added from time to time until at present one hun-
dred and thirty acres yield to him a golden trib-
ute in return for his care and cultivation. It was
at first covered with timber but he cleared and
plowed the land, planted crops and in course of
time was reaping abundant harvests as a reward for
his labor. Every improvement upon the place was
put there by Mr. Colman and the well-tilled fields,
together with the neat appearance of the farm indi-
cates good management and industry on the part
of the owner.

The death of Mrs. Colman occurred at her home
in Bunker Hill Township, September 19. 1890, at
the age of lift^'-nine years and four months. She

was a faithful and loving wife and mother, a kind
neighbor and a life-long member of the Lutheran
Church. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Colman num-
bered seven children, one of whom is now deceased,
Anna, who died on her twenty-fifth birthday;
Frances is now the wife of Christopher Tunker,
who owns and operates a brick yard in Bunker Hill
Township; Emma, married John Smith and is liv-
ing in Kansas City; Mi.ggie is the wife of Frank
Davis, a machinist of Nevada, Mo.; Hannah is the
wife of William Dietz, a resident farmer of Bun-
ker Hill Township; Mary who remains at home and
attends to the household work for her father; and
George, who assists in operating the farm.

In political sentiment Mr. Colman is a Demo-
crat and keeps himself well informed concerning
the issues of the day but has never sought or de-
sired public office, having served only as Highway
Commissioner of his township. In religious belief
he is a Lutheran. For about thirty years he has
resided in this community and his life during all
that period has been only such as to win the confi-
dence and good will of all.

">&£&&&+'

*|?tf A RON- F. CARTER, now deceased, was one
@H of the prominent and honored citizens of

/// I* Bunker Hill and the surrounding country.
id^ He came to this county in 1840 and for

thirty years or until his death was prominently
connected with its upbuilding. He was born in
Morris County, N. J., and was descended from New
England ancestry. In the usual manner of farmer
lads he was reared to manhood and when he had at-
tained to mature years, in the county of his nativ-
ity he was joined in wedlock with Miss Sarah B.
Smalley, who was born in Somerset County, N. J.,
December 27, 1810, and is a daughter of David D.
and Mary (Blackford) Smalley, who were also na-
tives of Somerset County and came of English and
French origin. After their marriage they lived
upon a large farm in Somerset County until their
deaths. Mr. Smalley died at the age of forty years
ami his wife died in the thirty-fourth year of her
age. They were members of the Seventh Day Bap-

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

25 1

tist Church and took a prominent part in all the af-
fairs of the community. The paternal grandfather
of Mrs. Carter, whose name was David Smalley,
was a leading and influential citizen of New Jersey
and served as Secretary to Gen. Washington dur-
ing the Revolutionary War. At the same time all
of his brothers were engaged in the struggle for in-
dependence and aided in achieving American lib-
erty. He married Hannah Ralph, a native of New
Jersey, of Dutch ancestry and they spent their en-
tire lives upon a farm in Somerset County, among
a people by whom they are highly honored and es-
teemed. Mr. Smalley served his district as Cir-
cuit Judge for some years and was a prominent
politician in his day. Both he and his wife were
members of the Seventh Day Baptist Church.

Mrs. Carter was left an orphan at an early age
and in her maidenhood she learned the tailor's
trade, which she followed in New Jersey and to
some extent since she came to Illinois. In the
spring of 1840 Mi', and Mrs. Carter located in Jer-
sey ville and in a few months later took up their
residence in Macoupin County, where he entered
land from the Government. After making some
improvements 'hereon he sold and entered land, in
Hilyard Township. This he did until he had
cleared, cultivated and improved seven different
farms and finally he located upon a valuable tract
of land just east of the city of Bunker Hill, where
he made his home until his death. He also pur-
chased an entire block which is now situated near the
center of Bunker Hill and has become a valuable
piece of property. h\ October, 1870, at the age of
sixty-two years he passed away. In his death the
community lost one of its best citizens, his neigh-
bors a kind friend and his wife a true and loving
husband. For years he had been a prominent mem-
ber of the Methodist Church and had served as
Sunday-school Superintendent and exhorter and
Class-Leader. In politics he was a Democrat but
never sought or desired public office. He led a
busy and useful life, was a man of charitable and
benevolent impulses and ranked high in the esteem
of his fellow-townsmen for his sterling worth.

Since her husband's death Mrs. Carter has lived
in Bunker Hill, her home being situated on the
block before mentioned. She still retains posses-

sion of the home farm and besides has other valua-
ble property which yields her a good income. Her
eighty years rest lightly upon her and her hair is
but slightly tinged with grey, while she still retains
much of the vitality and energy which character-
ized her in earlier years. She is a faithful member
of the Methodist Church and has taken a promi-
nent part in its work. The poor and needy find in
her a warm friend and her generous and kind acts
have endeared her to the hearts of many. She has
never hail any children of her own but has givsn
homes to three: Mrs. Delia (Wilson) Mcintosh,
now of Omaha, Neb.; Leroy Wilson, who is living
in New York; and llattie L. Wilson. Three per-
sons now comprise the Carter household: Mrs. Car-
ter, her niece, Miss May Smalley, and her sister's
granddaughter, Miss llattie Wilson. Both are ac-
complished young ladies and the latter is now a
teacher of recognized ability in the schools of this
community.

AMES W. DUNCAN was for several years
a resident of this county, and during the
latter part of his life was one of the leading
/ farmers of South Palmyra Township, owning
one of the best farms in that locality, and his death
was a severe blow to its most important industry.
He was born in Washington County, Tenn;, July
4, 18,'52, and was a son of James Duncan, who is
also supposed to have been a native of Tennessee,
lie in turn was a son of Joseph Duncan, who was
a pioneer farmer of that State and spent his last
years in Washington County, where he cleared a
farm from the wilderness. He was a soldier of the
Revolution, and was a pensioner during the latter
part of his life.

The father of our subject grew to maturity in
his native county, and began his career as a far-
mer on the old homestead that was his birthplace,
a part of which he inherited, and he bought the re-
mainder of the other heirs to the estate. He re-
sided thereon many years, actively engaged in
agriculture, but in 1856 he came to Illinois to
spend his last days with his children, and his life

252

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

was brought to a close in the home of our subject
near Guard. His wife, who bore the maiden name
of Sarah Hunt, died at the home of their daughter
near Sulphur Springs, Macoupin County.

He of whom these lines are a brief biographical
record passed his early life amid the scenes of his
birth, and remained with his parents until he was
twenty-one. He was of a thoughtful, studious
turn of mind, and ambitious to gain an education,
he made the best of his advantages at Fall Branch
College. When he attained his majority he came
to Illinois, and utilized his knowledge of books by
teaching in South Palmyra Township two years.
He then bought some wild prairie land near Girard,
at the rale of $10 an acre, and buying a house
moved it to his land for a dwelling. He broke
and fenced his land, and lived on it eight years
after his marriage. At the expiration of that time
he sold and removed to Girard, where he engaged
in the grain business the ensuing two years. Af-
ter that he bought the farm on section 8, South
Palmyra Township now occupied by his family.
It comprises three hundred and eight acres of land
of surpassing fertility, and with its line improve-
ments ranks among the best in the township.

March 25, 1861, was the date of the marriage
of Mr. Duncan with Abigail Proffitt, a native of
Tennessee, and to her active and able co-opera-
tion he owed much of his prosperity. Three
of the children born of their marriage are living:
John W., who married Miss Fannie Thaeker; Jos-
eph B. and James T. Their first-born child, Allen
C, married Mary Fansler, and after marriage set-
tled in Franklin County, Kan., where he died in
1882.

Mrs. Duncan's father, Daniel B. Proffitt, was a
native of the same Tennessee county in which his
daughter was born. He was a son of John Proffitt,
who is also thought to have been born in that
county. He carried on his business as a farmer
there, improved a farm, and continued to live in
that county until his demise. The maiden name
of his wife was Mollie Barnes, and she was a life-
long resident of Tennessee.

Daniel B. Proffitt was reared and married in the
county of his nativity. He inherited a part of his
father's old homestead, and bought the interest of

the other heirs in it. He made it his home unlil
1854, and then came to Illinois, journeying on a
flat boat- down the Tennessee River to Paducah. K\ -.,
and thence by steamer on the Ohio and Mississippi
rivers to Alton, and from there by rail to this
county. He bought a home in South Palmyra
Township, in which he dwelt until he closed his
eyes in the dreamless sleep of death. His widow
spent her last years with her daughter, Mrs. Dun-
can. Her maiden name was Sarah Range, and she
was born in Washington County, Tenn., a daughter
of John and Abigail Range.

Our subject passed away November 24, 1889. He
left a record worthy of emulation of one who by
right living had won the full trust and regard of
all with whom came in contact. He conscientiously
and unfalteringly strove to do his duty at all
times and in all places, and the Baptist Church,
which he joined in his youth, found in him one of
its most ardent and active members and one of its
most useful Deacons, an office which he held for
many years, and his place in the church and in his
community can never lie tilled. His wife also be-
longed to thai church.

jpp>ERDINAND BERNARD, dealer in lumber
pHTM and farming imp

iplements, of Brighton, es-
tablished business in that place in May,
1*84, :is the successor of G. II. Aylworth. He car-
ries all kinds of plain and dressed lumber and other
building materials and also has a complete line of
agricultural implements. He was born in Nassau,
Germany, where his father, William Bernard, was
also born and reared and spent his entire life as a
teacher. He died in his native land when little
past the prime of life. His wife, whose maiden
name was Elizabeth Schmidt, was born and reared
in Nassau, Germany, and in the city of her nativity
at length passed away, after having survived her
husband over twenty years. In their family were
six children, four sons and two daughters.

The subject of this sketch is the only one who
ever crossed the water. He received liberal edu-
cational advantages and under the direction of his

ilBRARV
Of THE

J^-^. ffr^^*

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RKCOKD.

255

father and other noted musical professors, he ac-
quired an excellent knowledge of that art. He de-
termined to make America the scene of his career
and embarked upon the steamer •■Herman," which
sailed from Bremen to the harbor of New York.
Mr. Bernard did not linger long in the East but
came at once to the West. Here, however, he
stopped at many of the principal cities and finally
made a location iD St. Louis, where he was engaged
as a teacher of instrumental music. His next place
of residence was in Springfield, 111., where for seven
years he was engaged as a German professor and
also in leaching music.

A marriage ceremony, performed in St. Louis,
united the destinies of Mr Bernard and Miss Mar-
garet Paltzer, who was born in Prussia, Germany,
and while yet a young maiden, crossed the Atlantic
with her parents. For some time the family made
their home in New York City, removing thence to
St. Louis, where the father, Jacob Paltzer, died of
cholera, in 1365. At the time of his death he was
engaged in business at that place. His wife sur-
vived him man}' years, passing away in 1889, at
the age of seventy-five years. Mrs. Bernard re-
ceived a liberal education and is a lady of intelli-
gence and culture. The union of Mr. Bernard and
his wife has been blessed with six children, all of
them seem to have inherited musical taste and
ability. In his business life Mr. Bernard is meeting
with excellent success.

R. JOHN A. DELANO. For years this
gentleman, whose name appears on the
opposite page and who is now deceased,
was one of the prominent citizens and
business men of Bunker Hill. He had an
acquaintance which extended throughout the entire
county, and the many friends whom he won will
be pleased to see his sketch and portrait in the
history of the county where he so long made his
home. He was born in New Braintree, Mass., April
5, 1816, and was a son of Gideon and Betsy

(Brimhall) Delano, both of whom were natives of
Massachusetts and were descended from prominent
old families of the Bay State. They began their
domestic life upon a farm near New Braintree,
where they resided until their children were grown
when, wishing to furnish then 1 with belter educa-
tional advantages, they removed to Amherst. After
the emigration of the Doctor to Macoupin County
they also came here and spent their last days, each
dying at an advanced age.

Our subject was graduated from Amherst Col-
lege in the Class of '36, and among his schoolmates
was numbered Rev. Henry Ward Beecher. After
he had completed his literary education, to fit him-
self for the profession which he had chosen as his
life work, he entered the Medical College of Phila-
delphia, Pa., from which he was graduated. Suon
afterward he came West, believing that there was
a better opening for an ambitious young man than
in the older States of the East where every walk of
life seemed crowded. He located in Bunker Hill
in 1841, hung out his shingle and in a very short
time had all the practice to which he could attend.
His services were constantly in demand and his
excellent practice yielded him a good income, but
at length, owing somewhat to the long drives he
was forced to take, he determined to abandon his
profession and embarked in the drug business. In
a very short time he was enjoying a fine trade and
to secure more commodious quarters he built a
splendid brick store store which continued to be
his place of business until his death and is still
known as "The Delano." It is now occupied by
Harry R. Bndd, who also carries on a drug store.
For many years this was the only drug-store in the
place.

In Bunker Hill the Doctor was united in mar-
riage with Mrs. Ar.na W. (Williams) King, who was
born in Dutchess County, N. Y.,and is a daughter
of William P. and Asenath (Skiff) Williams. Her
parents were natives of Massachusetts where they
resided until after their marriage, when they re-
moved to Dutchess County, N. Y. There they
resided for many years, Mr. Williams dying within
the borders of that county at the age of sixty. He
had spent most of his active life as a teacher and
was one of the popular and well-known educators

256

PORTRAIT AJSD BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

of tbe Empire Slate. After her husband's death
Mrs. Williams came to Bunker Hill and died at the
home of her daughter, Mrs. Frances Carlisle, at the
age of sixty-nine years. She was a member of the
Dutch Reformed Church. Into Dr. Delano and
his wife were born three children, but Julia and
.John both died in infancy. The only surviving
member of the family is Annie who was educated
in the schools of Bunker Hill, and was graduated
from Monticello Seminary. She is a fine musician,
an accomplished young lad}' and makes her home
with her mother.

Dr. Delano was of Huguenot descent and inher-
ited all the virtues of the best type of the people
that figured so prominently in a most momentous
epoch in the history of civilization. He took a
leading part in all that pertained to the upbuilding
of the community and was a prominent worker for
the social, educational and moral interests of the
city. In 1852 he was elected Secretary and Treas-
urer of the Cemetery Association, which position he
held until his death, and he gave his most zealous
efforts to the work in hand. To the Doctor more
than anyone else, President J. II. Pettingill alone
excepted, is due the admirable condition of this
magnificent property and certainly he is entitled to
the greatest credit for the erection of the soldier's
monument which was erected in 186G and is the
chief ornament of the cemetery. While he was
endeavoring to secure this tribute to the memory
of the honored soldiers he was, all uncouciously
to himself, erecting a monument of love and grati-
tude in the hearts of many.

The cause of education ever found in him a warm
friend and he was an active member of the Acad-
emy Association, while to the building fund he was
a liberal contributor. For many years he was clerk
and trustee of the Congregational Church and
contributed liberally of his means to its support
but he held to no particular creed, endorsing the
doctrines advocated by the Rev. Henry Ward
Beecher. In politics he was a Republican and held
several local offices, the duties of which he ever
faithfully discharged. It was in the home circle
that his true life shone out and L seemed that he
could not do too much to enhance the happiness of
his family aad promote their welfare. Near his

place of business he built a fine residence which is
still occupied by his widow and daughter. His
death occurred April 14, 1887, and was sincerely
mourned by many warm friends.

:£liiliE=^-

ENJAMIN F. CLARK, a member of the
-i the firm of Clark & Deck, proprietors of
an extensive mercantile establishment at
Girard, devoted to the sale of drugs, books,
stationery, groceries, hard and wooden ware, etc.,
has long been connected with the business interests
of this county, and has contributed to its financial
prosperity. He was born in Wayne County, 111.,
April 29, 182!), his father, the Hon. Benjamin A.
Clark, being a pioneer of that section of the State
and one of its prominent citizens during his life-
time.

The father of our subject was born near Lexing-
ton, Ky., and was a son of James Clark, a native
of Ireland, of Scotch ancestry, who came to this
country during the Revolution, and casting in his
lot with the Colonists, fought bravely with them
for freedom from British rule. After the war was
ended he resided for a time in Virginia, and then
followed the tide of emigration to Kentucky, lie
bought a tract of timber land near Lexington, aud
settling down to the life of a pioneer in the forest
wilds, he lived there many years. He came from
there to Illinois in territorial days, locating in the
wilderness in Wayne County, in 1817, being one
of the earliest pioneers in that section. He bought
timber land, on which he erected a log house, and
at once entered upon the hard task of clearing a
farm. He continued to reside in the southern
part of that county some years, and then sold and
moved to the northern part of it, where he made
his home until he closed his eyes in death. Tbe
maiden name of his wife was Mary Jones. She
was born either in Wales or in America of Welsh
parentage. She died on the home farm in Wayne
County. Both were stanch Presbyterians in their
religious belief.

The father of our subject was a young man when
he came to Illinois with his parents, lie had been

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

257

reared to agricultural pursuits, and at the time of
bis marriage lie located on a farm in the eastern
part of Wayne County. A few years later lie re-
moved to the northern part of the county and en-
tered forty acres of Government land. He built a
primitive log house, riving shingles by hand to
cover the roof, and making the chimney of sticks
and clay. His wife cooked by the open fireplace
for many years, and her deft hands carded, spun
and wove all the cloth of which she made garments
for her children. Mr. Clark was much prospered
in bis calling, invested in other land adjoining his
original purchase and in time improved a valuable
farm, that remained his home until his death. He
was a man of more than ordinary force of char-
acter and intellect, and was very influential among
bis fellow-citizens, who often called him to fill re-
sponsible offices. He was at one time Sheriff of
Wayne County, and he also represented his dis-
trict as a member of the State Legislature. It was
while attending a session of that honorable body at
Yandalia, in 1838, that his useful career was closed
by bis untimely death. He was a devoutly relig-
ious man; one of the leading members of the
Methodist Episcopal Church, and services were held
at bis house. He was a Class-Leader in the church.

The mother of our subject, who bore the maiden
name of Mary G. Witters, was a native of West
Tennessee. Her father, Peter Witters, was a pio-
neer of that section of the country, and later of
Illinois, where he settled in White County, and
there spent his remaining years. The maiden
name of his wife was Hannah Green. She was
born in North Carolina and died in White County,
this State. The mother of our subject was a Pres-
byterian in her religious faith. She died on the
home farm in Wayne County in 1851, leaving four
children — Joseph, Peter, Benjamin F., and Mel-
vina.

He of whom this biography is written was reared
in his native county. There were no free schools
in his youth, each family having to pay according
to the number of children sent to school. The
country roundabout his early home was sparsely
settled and not greatly improved from its primi-
tive condition. There were no railways for many
years, and St. Louis, one hundred and ten miles

away, was the principal market. Our subject
continued to reside with his mother until her death,
and lie then spent six months in Iowa. Returning
to Wayne County, he taught the first free school
in that section, receiving £27 a month for
a session of three months. He then turned
his attention to the study of medicine in the
ollircs of Drs. Greene and Barrickman, near Jef-
fersonville, and subsequently began to practice
in Wayne County. A short time after that he re-
linquished that calling, and July 1, 1857, came to
Macoupin County to establish a drug store in
Scottville, which be managed until 18G5. May 5,
of that year he came to Girard to engage in busi-
ness, and has ever since been a valued resident of
this city. In March, 1884, L. C. Deck became as-
sociated with him in the business under the firm
name of Clark & Deck. They have one of the best
equipped and best slocked establishments in the
city, and carry a full line of drugs, groceries, books,
hardware, etc.

Mr. Clark has been three times married. His
first marriage, which took place in January, 1854,
was with Miss Mary Frances Maston, a native of
Marietta, Ohio. Their wedded life was very
brief, as she died in the fall of the same year. Our
subject was married a second time May 10, 185'J,
Miss Mary A. Butcher becoming bis wife. She
was a native of Greene County, III., and a daugh-
ter of Eli J. and Vienna Butcher. She departed
this life February 20, 1878, leaving four children
— Edwin Verner, Mabel, Frank Leslie, and Grace.
Mr. Clark was married to Mrs. Kate (Garst) Sberfy
March 24, 1883. Mrs. Clark is a native of Ten-
nessee, and a daughter of Jacob and Frances Garst.
Her marriage with our subject has been blessed
with one child, whom they have named Ethel.

For more than a quarter of a century, Mr. Clark
has been intimately associated with the growth
and welfare of Girard as one of its most intelligent
business men and public-spirited citizens, and he
has ever sought to elevate its moral, social and re-
ligious status. He has taken part in its public life
as a member of the City Council and of the City
School Board. He was for many years a Demo-
crat in politics, but of late he has used his influ-
ence in favor of the Prohibition party. He and

258

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

his wife are members of tlie Christian Church, and
are active; in its every good work. He has an ex-
tensive acquaintance in this county, of which lie
has been a resident for so many years, and is well-
known as a thoroughly honorable business man,
whose integrity is beyond question, as is his repu-
tation in all the relations of life.

®|j|LEX McCURDY, an enterprising farmer
'@EJ i and stock-raiser of Hilyard Township, re-

ifj IMi siding on section 30, claims New Jersey
qJ as the State of his nativity. He first

opened his eyes to the light of day in Atlantic
County in 1814. The family is of Irish origin.
The grandfather of our subject, John McCurdy,
Sr., was a native of County Antrim, Ireland, where
ivhere he grew to manhood and was married.
Later lie came to America, having his wife and
children in the old country and during the Revo-
lutionary "War fought under Gen. Washington.
For his services he received a land warrant and
then returned to the Emerald Isle for his family
with the intention of establishing a home in the
United States, but died very suddenly in his na-
tive land. Afterward the three older children,
including John, father of our subject, who served
in the War of 1812-14, and was born in County
Antrim and was then twelve years of age, came
to America, leaving the widowed mother and
younger children in Ireland, where Mrs. McCurdy
died at the advanced age of one hundred and five
years. The three sons who came to this country
did not improve the land as it was their intention
of doing when they left home, but sold the war-
rant and removed to different parts of the coun-
try to engage in business best suited to their
tastes. The father of our subject attained to his
majority in New Jersey, and there engaged in
working iron ore. He married Miss Elizabeth
Wentling, who was born and reared in that State.
They began their domestic life in New Jersey,
where the husband died at the age of sixty-four
years, after which his widow removed to Penn-
sylvania, and died at the home of her son Nich-

olas on the Schuylkill River, about thirteen miles
from Philadelphia. This was in 1855, and she
was at that time eighty four years of age. In
religious belief she was a Methodist and Mr. Mc-
Curdy was a member of the Presbyterian Church!
Their family numbered eleven children, seven
sons and four daughters, of whom only four sons
are now living.

Our subject was only a child when his parents
removed from New Jersey to Pennsylvania. He
may truly be called a self-made man, for before he
was twelve years of age he began life for himself,
being the employed in the iron works, where he
continued to labor for thirty-seven years. At
first he worked as a mokler, but his ability won
him promotion, and during the last ten years of
his residence in Pennsylvania he was employed as
foreman of six furnaces owned by David Thomas,
"the Iron King." He was thus able to command
an excellent salary, and with the money acquired
he purchased land in Illinois. He first came to
this State in 1801, and bought one bundled and
twenty acres of land in Jersey County, where he
made his home until 1868, when in the spring of
that year he purchased his present farm, compris-
ing the northern half of three hundred and twenty
acres of land on section 36, Hilyard Township.
Every acre is under cultivation, the eye resting
uiion no spot of unimproved land.

In Atlantic County, N. J., at May's Landing,
Mr. McCurdy led to the marriage altar Miss Chris-
tina McCauley, who was born in County Antrim,
Ireland, in 1818, and is a daughter of Henry and
Sarah (McCurdy) McCauley, who were also na-
tives of County Antrim, where they were married
and lived until after the birth of all their children.
About 1828, with their family, they came to Amer-
ica, settling in Atlantic County, N. J., when the
city of Camden was a small hamlet. Some years
later they removed to Pennsylvania, locating at
the head of the Juniata River, where the remain-
der of their lives were passed. The father was a i
member of the Catholic Church and his wife a
Presbyterian.

Mrs. McCurdy is the only surviving member of
their family of twelve children. She was quite
young when she crossed *he Atlantic to America

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

250

:uiil in New Jersey she grew to womanhood. Ten
children have been born unto our subject and his
worthy wife, but six are now deceased. Catherine
died at the age of twenty-one years; John
died in childhood; John, the" second of that
name, who died at the age of two years; Mary,
who died at the age of Gfteen months; one who
died in infancy; and Elizabeth, who became the
wife of Nathaniel Pinkard, who is now living in
Williamstown, Ky. Unto them two children were
born, one of whom survives the mother — Joseph
A., who since his childhood has been reared by
his grandparents and was educated in Bunker Hill
Academy. Those who still survive are: Joseph
M., who wedded Melissa Deck and is engaged in
farming in Hilyard Township; Sarah, widow of
John Stemple, a popular railroad conductor of
Pennsylvania, who was killed in an accident; Me-
lissa anil Jane at home.

In politics Mr. McCurdy was an old-line Whig
until the rise of the Republican party, which
he has since supported. He belongs to the Pres-
byterian Church and his wife is a member of the
same church. During the twenty-two years of their
residence in Macoupin County they have won
many friends and have gained the respect and
esteem of all with whom they have come in contact.

*% s 'tt* J cV •-*—

%-^ OX. SAMUEL S. GILBERT, of Carlinville,
lias occupied a prominent position among
the leading lawyers of this county for
many years. He is a native of Massachu-
setts, the old seaport town of Gloucester, on Cape
Ann, in Essex County, being the place of his birth,
and January 28. 1827, the date thereof. He is a
descendant of old Colonial families that settled in
the old B.13' Stale in the early years of its settle-
ment.

Jonathan Gilbert, the father of our subject, was
born in Gloucester, and was a son of Jonathan Gil-
bert, who was also a native of the same town, and
was in turn the son of another Jonathan Gilbert,
who was also a native of that place, as was his
father, who likewise bore the name of Jonathan,

and was of Gloucester birth. The father of the
latter, John Gilbert, was born in England or in

Massachusetts of English parents. He removed
from Wenham to Gloucester in 1704, and spent
the rest of his days there. Jonathan Gilbert, Sr.,
and his son Jonathan were both farmers, and were
life-long residents of Gloucester, their farm lying
in the locality now known as Magnolia, where now
many wealthy people have beautiful sea-side homes.
The grandfather of our subject also was a farmer
and spent his whole life in his native Gloucester.

The father of our subject commenced life as a
sailor when quite young, and followed the sea for
upwards of twenty years, the most of the time in
the merchant service, and became master of a ves-
sel. In 1834 he retired from a seafaring life, and
journeying far into the interior of the country,
came to Illinois and spent the winter in this State.
He was favorably impressed with the country, and
returning to Massachusetts for his family came
back here to locate the same spring. He and his
family started from Gloucester in a sail vessel
bound for Philadelphia. While trying to double
Cape Cod a storm was encountered and the vessel
was obliged to put back to Gloucester for repairs.
After a few days the father with our subject and
younger brother started again for Philadelphia in
the same vessel, while the others took passage in
another ship for Boston, whence they went by rail
to Providence, and thence by water to Philadelphia,
where the farui^- was re-united. They then went
by rail to Johnstown, Pa., which was at that time
the western terminus of the railway; from there by
canal to Pittsburg, where they embarked on a
steamer and voyaged on the waters of the Ohio
and Mississippi to Alton, this State, which they
found to be a small but very lively town, as it was
the market and depot of supplies for the surround-
ing country for many miles around.

Soon after his arrival in Illinois Mr. Gilbert
bought a tract of timber land four miles from Al-
ton, and there being no house upon it he moved
into a dwelling of his brother-in-law near by, and
resided in it for some time. He next bought
twenty acres of land on the Carrolton road, upon
which he erected a hewed log house, in which he
lived until 1837. Then disposing of that place he

260

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

went to Griggsville, in Pike County, and was a
pioneer there. He bought village property and
was a resident of that place until 1839, when he
rented a farm one and one-fourth miles west of
Griggsville. In 1842 he bought a tract of land
three miles northwest of Griggsville. He built a
comfortable residence on that land, and dwelt there
until 1845. Returning to the village he stayed
there one year, and then, in 1816, went back to his
old home in Massachusetts, taking all his family
with him, except his two sons, George and Samuel.

In 1853 Mr. Gilbert left Gloucester to again
take up his residence in this State. He bought a
lot on the west side of the square in Carlinville, and
erected a commodious building a store and dwell-
ing, his death occurring here in February, 18G9.
An honored pioneer and respected citizen thus
passed to eternal rest, leaving behind him a good
name and an untarnished life record. His worthy
wife did not long survive him, but died the fol-
lowing April in the home of our subject. She was
also a native of Gloucester, and bore the maiden
name of Mary Sayward. She was the mother of
four children, of whom our subject is the eldest.
The following is recorded of the others: George
died at Carlinville, .May 2. 1877; Fitz William died
at Belfast, Me., April 10, 1881); John resides at
Murfreesboro, Tenn.

The maternal grandfather of our subject. Capt.
John Sayward, was born in Gloucester. Mass..
and was a son of Samuel and Susanna (Lord ) Say-
ward, and was a descendant of Henry Sayward a
native of England, who came to America in 1G37
and settled near Northampton, N. II. John Say-
ward w;:s captain of a vessel in the merchant ma-
rine service, and spent his last years in Gloucester.
He married Abigail Coos, who was a native of that
town. Her grandfather, William Coos, great-
great-grandfather of our subject, was a native of
England, and he came to this country in early
Colonial times. He died at Gloucester in 1773.
The maiden name of his wife was Mary Gardner.
The great-grandfather of our subject, Mr. Coos,
was a seafaring man, and commanded a privateer
in the Revolutionary War. His first cruise was
very successful, but the second was fatal to him,
as his ship, "The Stark," was captured by the En-

glish. He was taken in irons to Halifax, and after
a short confinement in that city was placed on
board a ship bound for Boston. The first night
out a fearful storm raged and the vessel and its
crew were never heard from afterward.

The first eight years of the life of our subject
were passed in the seaport town of his birth, and
since then he has lived in this State, and he retains
a vivid recollection of pioneer days in the western
wilds of Illinois. He was naturally of a thought-
ful, studious disposition, and made the best of his
opportunities to secure a liberal education. His
first knowledge of books apart from what he had
learned at home was gained in the pioneer schools
of early times that were taught in log houses, and
provided with rude home made furniture. He
lived with his parents until he was fourteen years
old, and then went to Griggsville to attend school,
and was also engaged there as clerk until the fall
of 1843, when he went to Alton and entered
Shurtleff College, where be pursued a fine course
of study the ensuing four years, remaining there
until 1847. In June of that year he commenced
teaching at Upper Alton, and taught until the
spring of 1848. Like many another man he made
that profession a stepping stone to the bar, entering
the office of the Hon. John A. Chestnut when he left
off teaching to prepare himself for his new voca-
tion. He was admitted to the bar in 1850. and
formed a partnership with his preceptor, continu-
ing with him until the retirement of the latter three
years later. After that he was in partnership with
Thomas Jayne for a time, and subsequently was
with Gen. Rinaker from 1858 until the General
entered the army, since which time he has been
alone.

Mr. Gilbert and Miss Frances McClure were
united in marriage August 12, 1851. Mrs. Gilbert
was a daughter of James and Frances McClure,
and was born in Nicholasville, Jessamine County,
Ky. She departed this life November 9, 1888,
after a happy wedded life of thirty-seven years,
leaving behind her a pleasant memory of one who
filled in a perfect measure the sacred offices of wife,
mother and friend. Our subject has three children,
Edward A.. Charles F. and William W. Edward
is an attorney at York, Neb., and was a mem-

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

261

ber of the State Legislature in L888. Charles is an
attorney in Kansas City, Mo. William is a resident
of St. Louis.

Through years of constant devotion to his
professional duties Mr. Gilbert has attained an
honorable position among the legal luminaries of
this State, and is known for his thorough knowl-
edge of the law as applied to all cases that come
nniler his practice. He has been called to re-
sponsible legal offices, and has filled them with
dignity and ability. In 1852 he was elected
County Judge, and he subsequently served two
terms as Master in Chancery. In 1874 be was
elected a member of Ihe State Legislature. His
social relations are with Mt. Nebo Lodge No. 76,
A. F. St A. M. He cast his first Presidential
vote for Gen. Cass in 1848, and remained
with the Democrats until 1864, when be gave
his support to Lincoln for the presidency. In
18G8 he used his influence for Gen. Grant, and
in 1872 was a warm advocate for Greeley. After
that he returned to his early love, and has ever
since adhered to the Democratic party.

M ALCOLM M. ANDERSON, who is now
living retired in the city of Carlinville,
is one of the most extensive landholders
in the county ,and has taken a leading part in
its agricultural development. His birth took place
in Christian County, Ky., December 24, 1830, and
he is a son of Col. James Anderson, a Virginian,
who whs a prominent pioneer of this section of the
Slate in the early years of its settlement.

The paternal grandfather of our subject emi-
grated to this country in Colonial times and resided
for a while in Virginia before his removal to Ken-
tucky, where be became a pioneer of Bourbon
County. He entered a thousand acres of Govern-
ment land there, but suffered reverses and lost all
his property before his death, which occurred in
that county.

Col. Anderson was quite young when his father
took him from his Virginia birthplace to the pio-
neer home in Kentucky. At the age of thirteen

he left the parental roof and after that time made
bis own way in the world, as he was perfectly able
to do, for he was well endowed with physical and
mental vigor. He learned the trade of a hatter
but did not follow it long as his tastes led him to
farming, and he settled on a farm in Christian
County, Ky. He met with fair success in his new
venture, but unfortunately, by endorsing notes for
friends, he lost all his property, and in 1834 came
to Illinois to seek a new location. lie visited
Macoupin County in the month of June and
entered a tract of Government land on section 11,
Carlinville Township, and then went back to Ken-
tucky for his family. On the 12th of the follow-
ing October, with his wife and their six children,
he started for their new home, and journeyed
hither with a pair of oxen, a wagon and two
horses and a carriage, arriving at his destination in
twelve days' time.

The Colonel rented a log bouse in which the
family lived during the winter and in the mean-
time he built a log house on his own land, riving
boards for the roof and splitting puncheon for the
floor. In the spring of 1835 he and his family
removed to their new borne and he commenced to
improve his land. He also became an extensive
trader in live stock, driving cattle to St. Louis,
and in 1846 and again in 1847 took a drove to
Wisconsin, taking three hundred and fifty head
each time. In 1851 an attack of cholera ended his
useful career and this county lost one of its most
useful citizens. His wife also died of cholera
thirteen days after his death. Her maiden name
was Ann Rice Harris and Virginia was her native
State. She reared a family of seven children,
named as follows: Crittenden II. C, Maria C,
Erasmus S., Augustus E., Malcolm M., Henry C.
and Mary A.

Malcolm M. Anderson, of whom this biography
is principally written, was in his fourth year when
he came with his parents to this county, and he
remembers well the incidents of pioneer life under
which be was reared. His mother used to do her
cooking by the fireplace and the children were
clothed in cloth the product of her spinning wheel
and loom. Our subject took every advantage to
secure an education and early attended a pioneer

262

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

school that was taught in a primitive log house
with aii earth and slick chimney, the furniture
being rudely fashioned by hand, the seats made by
splitting logs and inserting wooden pins for sup-
port, and for a desk a plank was laid on wooden
pins that were inserted in holes bored in the wall
of the building. On one side of the house a log
was sawed out and a row of glass put into the
aperture find thus made to serve for windows. In
those early days game was plentiful, and deer,
wolves and other wild animals were often seen
roaming over the prairies.

Mr. Anderson made his home with his parents
until their death, then settled on a farm on the
northeast quarter of section 12, Carlinville Town-
ship, and commenced housekeeping in a log house.
Two years later he sold that place and bought the
south half of section 11, locating there in 1854,
and made that his home until 1880, when he bought
the resilience he now occupies on North Broad
Street, Carlinville. Here he and his estimable wife
live very pleasantly surrounded by all the comforts
of life, and have the satisfaction of knowing that
their prosperity is due to their united labors,
directed by wise economy, foresight and sound
judgment. Mr. Anderson has been more than
ordinarily successful as a farmer and now has in
his possession fifteen hundred acres of valuable
land, one hundred and sixty of which is located
in South Otter Township and the remainder in
Carlinville Township.

The marriage of Mr. Anderson to Miss Malvina
Ann Moore was celebrated February 11, 1851.
Mrs. Anderson was born April 16, 1833, in Carlin-
ville Township, and is a daughter of one of its first
settlers, Thomas G. Moore. It is thought that he
was a native of Simpson County, Ky., and in 1831
came to this county and entered Government land
on section 24, Carlinville Township. He erected
a log house to shelter his family and in that hum-
ble dwelling Mrs. Anderson was born. He con-
tinued to live on his homestead until death called
him hence in 1844. His wife, who bore the maiden
name of Sylvia W. Sublet, was a native of Vir-
ginia. She died at Shaw's Point Township a few
years after he did.

Mr. and Mrs. Anderson have been blessed with

five children, as follows: James T., who married
Ann Goodpasture, resides in South Otter Town-
ship; Laura A. is the wife of J. S. Thomason, of
Montgomery County; Melissa is the wife of John
A. Fullington, of Carlinville Township, and John
B., also a resident of Carlinville Township, who
married Mary 'Purvey, and Malcom M., a resident
of Carlinville, who married Laura Rue.

\f/ ULITS BEHME, Ju. The gentleman whoi s
the original of this sketch owns a good farm
located on section 21, Nilwood Township
He is of German parentage and birth and
now is in the meridian of life, having been born
April 2, 1840, in Brunswick, Germany. The early
years of his life were spent in his native place where
he received the drill in technical as well as mental
education that is an indispensable adjunct in Ger-
man school life. When fifteen years of age he em-
igrated with his parents to America. I lis father
was Julius Behme, and his mother Anna (Doretlie)
Behme. They were both natives of Germany and
came thence to this country in 1855.

The Behme family first settled in Ogle County,
and from there went to St. Louis, and thence to this
county, where they settled in Clyde and lived there
for two years. There the mother was called away
from a life of toil to a better land. The family
afterward lived for one year in Polk Township, and
then located in Brushy Mound Township, where
they have since made their home. They had two
children, William and Julius.

Our subject. Julius Behme, lived at home until
his marriage when he instituted a home and hearth
for himself in Brushy Mound Township. He re-
mained there for two years and then came to Nil-
wood Township, where he purchased one hundred
acres of land. Here he has since resided having
built himself a pleasant home.

Mr. Bebme was married in Carlinville, June
23, 1868 to Miss Sophia Blothe, who was a daughter
of Conrad H. and Sophia (Brummer) Blothe, both
natives of Hanover, Germany. The mother's de-
cease took place in her native land before her bus-

LIBRARY
Of THE
UNIVE

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ytA^c^ ;

Z^UIj&^s

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

265

band and family emigrated to America. Their
settlement in this country was made in 1866, the
father died in Nilwoorl Township, leaving two chil-
dren, Sophia, now Mrs. Behme, and Henry. Mrs.
Behme, like her parents, is a native of Hanover,
Germany, being there born December 13, 1849.
She and her husband are the parents of seven chil-
dren. They are: Lena W., who was married Feb-
ruary 22, 1891, to George Klaus of Nilwood Town-
ship, Emma B., Julia M., Anna S., Katie, George
J. and Albert F.

Our subject has made many improvements on
his farm and he now owns one hundred and forty
acres. His attention is exclusively engaged in I he
care of his farm and stock-raising. Mr. Behme is
a Republican in his political preference, and he and
his wife and family are attendants of the German
Lutheran Church. Like most of his countrymen
who are engaged in the agricultural pursuits in
this country, Mr. Behme has brought an energy
and vim to bear upon his business that has insured
him a success in the line that he had adopted.

/^OBUS J. KEISER. The name which our
(if^^ subject bears is inseparably connected with
^^^/ the history of the thriving town of Mt.
Olive in which he makes his home. Indeed, no one
has done so much for the place as he, for every
enterprise of any importance that has served
to aid in the upbuilding of the community has
found in him a supporter. We therefore with
pleasure present this sketch to our readers, as
well as the lithographic portrait on the opposite
page.

Mr. Keiser was born in Hanover, German}', Sep-
tember 4, 1811, and comes of a good family, the
members of which are characterized by temperate,
industrious and enterprising habits. His father,
John J. Keiser, and las mother, whose maiden
name was Geske Heien, were born, reared and mar-
ried in Hanover, where their children were also
born. In 1854, with their family they sailed for
America from Bremen, and on landing in New Or-
leans, proceeded up the Mississippi to Alton, spend-

ing the succeeding winter in Madison County, 111.
In the spring of 1855, they settled on section 14,
Mt. Olive Township, the one hundred and twenty
acre farm being then in its primitive condition.
The father died soon afterward, on the 6th of Sep-
tember. He was a noble man, and died in the
faith of the Evangelical Lutheran Church. His
widow, who long survived him, was a lady of
many marked characteristics. She possessed excel-
lent executive ability, and managed to keep her
children together, provide them with good educa-
tions, and lived to see them all prosperous in life.
She died at the home of her daughter Anna in 1889,
at the ripe old age of seventy-eight years. She.
too, was a member of the Lutheran Church.

The subject of this sketch, after acquiring a
good education in the public schools and the State
University, entered upon his business career. We
feel safe in saying that none other has done so much
to make Mt. Olive one of the busiest commercial
points in this part of the Slate. By so doing he
has not only secured a fortune, but has become one
of the most prominent men of the county. Since
18C6 Mt. Olive has grown to its present propor-
tions. In that year, Mr. Keiser with his father-in-
law, J. C. Nieman, established a small mercantile
house, and the next spring embarked in general
merchandising. That was the beginning of the
business which has grown and developed until it
occupies several of the largest store rooms of the
place, and represents every branch of merchandise
known, except drugs and lumber. Their business
houses are model structures, and the stock of
goods contained therein, whatever it be, is com-
plete.

When the Wabash Railroad was buili through
Mt. Olive, in 1870, Mr. Keiser assumed control of
all of the business at this point, and was thus con-
nected with the road until 1877, when more im-
portant and pressing business interests caused him
to resign. He gave a decided impetus to the growth
of the town by opening up a coal mine and organ-
izing the Mt. Olive Coal Company. He became
one of the most extensive stockholders, and was
made Superintendent and active Business Man-
ager, continuing as such for some years. A shaft
was sunk four hundred feet to a rich vein of coal,

266

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

seven feet thick and of superior quality. The out-
put was about sixty carloads per day, and a second
shaft was completed in 1879, but after some years,
owing to a delinquency and a lack of energy on a
part of some of the stockholders, the business was
transferred to the hands of the Consolidated Coal
Company of St. Louis, which has realized a hand-
some profit therefrom. However, the transfer was
made much against the will of Mr. Keiser.

Seeing the need of a flourmill, and anxious to aid
in the upbuilding of industries, in 1876, Mr. Kei-
ser and Henry Prange erected the large Anchor
Mills, which have proved of such value to the city.
After some years of successful operation, the firm
title was changed in 1881 to Keiser Bros., Andrew
•I. Keiser succeeding Mr. Prange. The mill under-
went a radical and important change in 1887, and
is now supplied with all the modern and best mill-
ing machinery. The capacity is about two hun-
dred barrels per day, and is run to nearly its full
extent. The shipments are both foreign and do-
mestic, and the leading brands of flour which they
manufacture are the "Patent Loaf" and -'Triumph.''
To the mill is attached an elevator with a capacity
of twenty-five thousand bushels, and the firm also
does considerable grain-buying at Warden and Gib-
son City, HI.

The increase of business connected with the mer-
cantile firm of Keiser, Niemeyer & Co., awoke the
owners to their need of a bank, and in 1882 C. J.
Keiser established and located the bank in his large
brick building, at the corner of Main and Poplar
streets. It is a private hank and is supplied with
all the appliances and appointments for doing a gen-
eral banking business, including a fine vault and
burglar-proof lock-safe for the accommodation and
safety of their depositors. Mr. Keiser is President
and General Manager, with Theo. Koch, Cashier, a
model young man. Mr. Keiser has also been instru-
mental in securing excellent railroad facilities to
Mt. Olive. He was the prime mover in building
the branch of the Peoria & St. Louis Railroad, from
Mt. Olive to Alhambra, 111., where it connects with
the Clover Leaf, running into St. Louis. In this
undertaking it was necessary to make large expen-
ditures of money and time, and the successful com-
pletion indicates the business ability and energy

which has marked the career of Mr. Keiser through
life. Again, when the Jackson & Southeastern Road
decided to run a branch through Mt. Olive, the com-
pany found Mr. Keiser at the front with his money,
all eagerness to assist. He gave valuable lots for
depot purposes, and in other ways aided in the es-
tablisment of the road.

In every good cause Mr. Keiser is equally liberal,
and when the magnificent German Lutheran Church
was built — the finest edifice of the kind in the city,
and one of the largest in the county — he gave the
beautiful lots on which it is located, together with
#3,000 for the building. He also gave to the city
the lot on which the City Hall and Public Library
are located.

After having marked out his business career,
Mr. Keiser, on the 9th of November, 1866, led to
the marriage altar Miss Mary C. Nieman, the
accomplished daughter of John C. Nieman, whose
sketch appears elsewhere in this work. She was
born January 21, 184 8, and until her marriage lived
with her father and stepmother, for she had lost her
own mother when young. She has been a true
helpmate to her husband, taking a deep interest in
all his business, and aiding him by her words of
encouragement and sympathy. Unto them were
born several children, of whom the following sur-
vive: Paulina, Amanda, Adolph, Edward and
Bertha. Mrs. Keiser adheres closely to the Lu-
theran faith, and is a true Christian woman. She
neglects no opportunity for doing good, and in so-
cial circles is a leader. When doing so much for
public interests, Mr. Keiser did not neglect his fam-
ily. He has been ever watchful for thei" welfare
and happiness, and provided for them a palatial
residence, which is built of brick in the latest style
of architecture, and is complete in all its appoint-
ments. It possesses every feature for comfort and
enjoyment, is heated by furnace and supplied with
hot and cold water, is beautifully and tastefully fur-
nished and adorned with many works of art, which
indicates a cultured and refined taste.

In local political circles, Mr. Keiser is also a
a leader. He was for seventeen years Postmaster
of Mt. Olive, has been President of the Town
Board for six years in succession, from 1877 to
1883, and elected again in 1891. When the new

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

2G7

township was formed out of the north half of
Staunton Township, he was elected its first Super-
visor in 1883, and held that oltiee until 1891, dur-
ing which time he did much toward reducing the
enormous courthouse debt by securing a large re-
duction of interest that was being paid. As before
intimated, he is a Lutheran in religious belief, and
for a long while he has been Superintendent of the
Sunday-school. lie is also an officer of the church
and one of its most active workers. His frank,
open countenance bespeaks a life above reproach,
and his friends are found not only in Illinois, but
in adjoining States as well. Although his life lias
been a busy one, his lime is never so occupied that
he cannot greet his acquaintances with a gentle-
manly courtesy, and the poor as well as the rich,
if their lives are deserving, receive his kindly
recognition. His fortune has been acquired in the
legitimate channels of business, and his posses-
sions he has generously shared with those in need of
aid.

«fi IjfelLLIAM HALLIDAY. A whole-souled
\/\j/l °l ,en - |ie:U ' u ' 1 ' »ati ve <J f tue Emerald Isle,
VW our subject emigrated at an early day to
this Mecca of Irishmen, where can be found the
liberty and freedom which they do not enjoy under
Uiitish rule. Having no flag of its own, the sub
jects of Ireland become the most devoted and loyal
adherents under our American banner. Mr. Halli-
day who is loyalty itself to American principles is
a resident on section 34, of Shipman Township.

Our subject's father was William Halliday, who
died in Ireland. His mother was Martha (Clark)
Halliday, who was born in Ireland, and emigrated
with her son to this country, now making her home
with him. William Halliday was borti August 28,
1842. He came to America in 185!) and soon after
proceeded to Shipman Township, arriving here the
10th of June, 1859.

For some time our subject was engaged as a farm
laborer hiring himself by the month and gaining
but small remuneration for his work, but thrifty
and prudent, in 1863 he was enabled to rent a tract
of land which he farmed for himself. He then

purchased one hundred and twenty acres in Brigh-
ton Township, which he afterward sold and now
owns two hundred and forty acres in this township.
Upon this tract he has placed good improvements
and has a pleasant and comfortable home.

Like most young men Mr. Halliday looked for-
ward to having a home of his own, over which the
choice of his heart should preside. His dream was
realized, his marriage taking place June 6, 1876 in
Hilyard Township to Miss Ida Moore, who was a
native of the place in which she was married, be-
ing there born, July 17, 1852. The lady's father
was Benjamin Moore. Her mother was Harriet
Scofield Moore. The latter died in Hilyard Town-
ship.

The original of this sketch and his bright and
attractive wife are the parents of seven children.
They are: Annie, Dollie, Fannie, Alice, Amanda V.,
Grover C. and llattie M. In his political views
like so many of his countrymen Mr. Halliday is a
Democrat, the theories harmonizing with his ideals
of personal freedom and the platform being that
which in his estimation tends to the advancement
of national aggrandizement. Since coming to this
country he of whom we write has always been en-
gaged in farming and stock-raising. In the latter
branch of industry he has been very successful,
having bred some animals of which he may well be
proud.

R. EDWARD C. ELLET, who for thirty
years engaged in the practice of medicine in
Bunker Hill but is now living a retired life,
was born on his father's farm near Bristol, Bucks
County, Pa., September 25, 1819, and is one of
fourteen children who were born unto Charles and
Mary (Israel) Ellet. His father, a native of Salem,
N. J., born March 4, 1777, was descended from an
old English Quaker family, tracing his ancestry in
a direct line back to Samuel Carpenter, who was
the private secretary of William Penn. He was
reared in the faith of the Society of Friends but
by his mode of life severed himself from that
imdy. When a young man he went to Philadelphia,

268

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

where be established a hardware store and married
Miss Israel, who was descended from Hebrew an-
cestry on the paternal side and was of Irish lineage
on the maternal side. After several years they left
Philadelphia and removed to Bneks County, Pa.,
where Mr. Ellet purchased a farm near the old
homestead of William Penn. However, lie did not
dispose of his home in the city of Brotherly Love
and after some years returned to Philadelphia,
where he spent the remainder of his life, dying in
1847. His wife long survived him. She was born
June 17, 178(1. and died November 3, 1870. at the
age of ninety years and six months. Both were
members of the Iniversalist Church and were
highly respected citizens. Of the family only
three are now living. Two brothers of our sub-
ject served in the late Rebellion; Charles Ellet, dr.
was a Colonel of Engineers and had command of
the ram fleet which collided with the Rebel boats
off Vicksburg. The collision proved very destruc-
tive and in the melee which followed Col. Ellet
received a wound in his knee which caused his
death. Alfred, his brother, also became a Lieuten-
ant-Colonel and was second in command of that
fleet.

We now take up the personal history of the
Doctor, who since 1839 has resided in Illinois. In
that year he located about ten miles north of Bun-
ker Hill, where he and his brother Alfred, although
neither were then of age, established the village
which was called Piainview. They lived in true
pioneer style in that wild and unbroken region,
giving their time and attention to agricultural pur-
suits but Edward followed this business only as a
means for preparing himself for the practice of
medicine, which he determined to make his life-
work. As soon as he had accumulated sufficient
funds he entered the Jefferson Medical College of
Philadelphia, from which he was graduated in
1849. Immediately thereafter he opened an office
in Bunker Hill, where he continued practice for
the long period of thirty years. He associated
with himself Dr. E. Howell and their connection
continued for twenty years, proving mutually
profitable and pleasant to them. Dr. Howell is still
living at the age of eighty-two years, now making
his home in McLean County. After their partner-

ship was dissolved Dr. Ellet continued business
alone until his retirement from active life. His
skill and ability soon won him a liberal patronage
and gained him a high rank among his professional
brethren such as he justly deserves. His practice
extended over a wide range of territory and he
never refused to respond to the call of the sick
and suffering, but often at great personal incon-
venience he would drive for miles across the coun-
try to relieve some one in need of medical aid.
The poor found in him a friend and his pleasant
and genial presence was very welcome by the side
of the sick bed, where his cheery sympathy often
proved a yreat help to the medicines which he had
ministered.

In February, 1850, in Bunker Hill, Dr. Ellet
was united in marriage with Miss Lydia Little, who
was born in Freehold, Monmouth County, N. J.,
November 19, 1824. While yet a young maiden
she came to Bunker Hill, 111., on a visit to friends.
Her father, William Little, was a native of New
Jersey and there spent the greater part of his life
and died at the age of forty-seven years. He
wedded Mary Knott, who survived him some time
but passed away in 1856, dying in the faith of the
Methodist Church, in which she was a firm believer.
Mrs. Ellet by her graces and many excellent char-
acteristics soon won her way to a proud position
in the social world and gained for herself many
valued friends. The marriage of the Doctor and
his wife was blessed with five children but three
died iu youth — Charles, Alfred and Mary. Anna
is now the wife of A. R. Robinson, who is a com-
mercial traveler for a Cincinnati clothing housi
but resides in St. Louis; and Lily E. is the wife of
E. M. Dorsey, who formerly traveled for life in-
surance companies in Texas, but now is engaged ir
the coal business in Alton, III.

In political sentiment Dr. Ellet is a stalwart
Republican but has never sought public office, pre-
ferring to devote his attention to his business inter-
ests, which he has done with excellent success
About twelve years ago he retired from activt
practice, having by industry and close attention t(
his business secured a large and lucrative practic<
which yielded him a sufficient income to keep bin
comfortably throughout his remaining years; ii

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

269

addition to that he has fallen heii' to different lega-
cies through his father, mother and an aunt on his
mother's side, she being the widow of Col. Daven-
port of Philadelphia. His long residence in the
community has made him widely known and no
one is held in higher regard. Although now sev-
enty-two years of age time has left few marks
upon his countenance. His fine, yet prominent
features are not marred by the ravages of age and
his snow-white hair seems to rest as a halo upon
bis brow.

•:-

fflAMKS L. FOSTER. The subject of this
sketch is a member of a family, the heads
of which have been successively pioneers in
in three States, and if there is anything in
the early discipline of pioneer life to develop the
the sturdy fiber of men that are especially wanted
in our country, certainly Mr. Foster should be so
qualified, and the nice attention paid to details on
his farm, which is located on section 5, Nilwood
Township, would seem to prove that thoroughness
at least has been ingrained in his character, both
by inheritance and experience.

The father of him of whom we write was a native
of Nicholas County, Ky., there born in 1794. The
paternal grandfather was .lames Foster, who was
probably a native of North Carolina. He removed
to Kentucky in an early da}- with his family. His
advent into the .State where fraternity and equality
are supposed to be the password was at the time
of Daniel Boone's settlement in the State. James
Foster died in Nicholas County, Ky., where he had
pursued his calling as farmer and blacksmith, doing
the blacksmith work for the company with which
he emigrated to the Blue Crass State. David Fos-
ter was his eldest son, and grew to manhood, among
the virgin forests and wild beautiful scenery along
the Kentucky River. He selected his wife from
among the women whose beauty is so famous
throughout the world as being a production of the
Blue Grass country.

Soon after marriage the family emigrated to
Greene County, III. in the year 1834, where they
lived until the death of the father, whose decease

was caused by the falling of a tree upon him. He
passed away from this life in 1835. Our subject's
mother was Prised la G. Pipper, who was also a na-
tive of Nicholas County, Ky. She also died in
Greene County in 1878. Both David Foster and
his wife were members of the Presbyterian Church
and took an active part in the organization and
support of religious work; he was an Elder in the
church of which he was a member.

Our subject is one of seven children, the family
numbering six sons and one daughter. James
Foster was the second child and second son. His
birthplace was in Nicholas County, Ky., his advent
into the world being made February 28, 1822. He
passed his childhood days in his native county,
and came to Greene County, this State, when he
had reached years of manhood. He continued to
live with his mother, adding to her means of sup-
port as opportunity afforded until he became of
age; as his eldest brother died while he was young,
our subject was the main support of the family and
he in consequence remained at home.

Mr. Foster on April 8, 1845 returned to Nich-
olas County, and was married to Miss Elizabeth A.
Brown, who was a native of the county in which
her marriage took place, her birth having occurred
July 22, 1827. The lady's parents were Milton
and Elinor (Allison) Brown. The former was a
native of South Carolina, and the latter of Nicho-
las County, Ky. Mr. Brown was born July 17, 1797,
and died November 22, 1878. He was an Elder of
the Presbyterian Church for forty years. His wife
died September 1, 1881 at the advanced age of
eighty- one years. They were married February
18, 1821. The father was a farmer by occupation
and both parents died in Nicholas County. They
were both active members of the Presbyterian
Church and were consistent and conscientious
Christians.

After marriage our subject settled in Kentucky
and lived there until the year of 1864, when he
came to Macoupin County and settled in Nilwood
Township, where he has since resided. He owns
a farm of one hundred ami sixty-one acres and has
erected thereon a comfortable and commodious
dwelling and good outhouses. His property with
the improvements he has put upon it and the ex-

270

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

cellent management he has given it made one of
the most desirable places in the county. Mr. and
Mrs. Foster are the parents of ten children. They
are: David M., Tabitha A., James W., Mary N.,
Charles A., Elizabeth J., Luther J., and three other
children who died in infancy. The eldest son is a
farmer in Nilwood Township. Tabitha is the wife
of John P. Robb. James W. assists his father on
the home farm; Mary N. is the wife of R. McGhce;
Charles A. is a resident of Missouri; Luther J.
devotes himself to agricultural pursuits.

The original of this sketch was nominated on the
Prohibition ticket in the Seventeenth Congressional
District as a member of the Board of Equalization.
Mr. and Mrs. Foster have both been members of the
Cumberland Presbyterian Church for many years
and Mr. Foster has held the office of Elder in the
church for a long time. The children are also all
connected with the church. The beautiful arrange-
ments of the farm with its fine buildings, all be-
speak a care for home comforts that is a guarantee
for the character of any man, and although Mr.
Foster is so devoted to domestic comfort he is a
public-spirited man, ready to give a helping hand
to any enterprise that seems for the advantage of
the locality in which he resides.

/fps& IDNEY T. HARRIS, whose pleasant resi-
^^^Z dence and beautiful farm constitute one of
lu/_jj) the landmarks of section 11, North Pal-
myra Township, is a son of Thomas R.
Harris, who was born in Virginia May 8, 1804.
His mother, Eliza Fry, was a native of Fayette Coun-
ty of the Blue Grass State and was born there in
March, 1801. This couple went to Missouri at a
very early day and were there married and after-
ward removed from that State to Morgan County,
111., making their home there in 1835, and living
there until about the year 1851, when they came
to Macoupin County and settled in North Palmyra
Township. The mother of our subject died while
on a visit to a brother near Jacksonville, passing
away in October, 1866. Her bereaved husband

who is still living, at the age of eighty-seven years,
makes his home with his children. They had six
children of whom our subject was the second.

.Sidney T. Harris was born near Palmyra and in
Marion County, Mo., February 19, 1833 and was a
little fellow of only about two years when his par-
ents removed from that State and made their home
in Morgan County. There he passed his early
years and took his education in the district schools
which he supplemented by attendance in Mc Kend-
ree College one year and when about eighteen j'ears
old, came with his parents to Macoupin County,
where he has since been a resident of North Pal-
myra Township. Farming and stock-raising have
fully occupied his energies with the exception of
the time which he has spent in the school room, as
he laughl seven winters after coining to North Pal-
myra Township.

The marriage of our subject occurred in the
township we have just named, August 2, 1865.
His bride bore the maiden name of Elizabeth S.
McPherson and she was a daughter of the late
Alexander and Tryphena (Shelton) McPherson.
Mr. Mc Pherson was born in Muhlenberg County,
Ivy., in September, 1804 and his wife was born near
Knoxville, Teiin. February 4, 1808. They made
their earl}' married home in Muhlenberg County,
Kv., and remained there through all their wedded
life. He died August 29, 1858 and his bereaved
widow survived him for ten years and then passed
away September 11,1868. They had five sons and
three daughters, of whom Mis. Harris was the sixth
in order of age, being born in Muhlenberg County,
Kv., November 20, 1841.

Eight children bless the home of Mr. and Mrs.
Harris, namely: Emma, Anna, Eunice, William S.i
Lucy, Thomas L., Thaddeus S. and Estella. Anna
died when about eighteen months old, and William
died by drowning at the age of eleven years. Mr.
Harris has always been engaged in farming and
stock-raising and owns two hundred and eighty
acres of fine land upon which he has erected an A
No. 1 set of farm buildings. For a long term of
j'ears he has satisfactorily filled the office of School
Director. His political views ally him with the
Republican party, and he pays an intelligent atten-
tion to political movements and public affairs. His

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

271

wife who with him is a member of the Methodist
Episcopal Church is possessed of unusual abilities
and her management of domestic affairs has aided
greatly in his success. She is highly esteemed by
her neighbors and is one of those women who help
to make a country neighborhood what it ever
should be, the scene of truly friendly intercourse
and neighborly enjoyment.

eYRlS W. GRAY. It affords us pleasure to
present in this volume a sketch of this gen-
tleman, who is well known and respected
and is at present serving his third term as a member
of the Count}- Board of Supervisors, representing
Carlinville Township. Mr. Gray was born October
29, 1827, in Berlin, Rensselaer County, N. Y., a son
of Stephen R. Gray, a native of the same town.
The grandfather of our subject, the Hon. Daniel
Gray, was. it is thought, born in New York. He
was a man of more than ordinary intelligence and
ability, and was prominent in public affairs. He
served as a member of the State Assembly and also
in the Senate. He was a farmer by occupation and
his last years were passed on his farm in Berlin
Township.

Stephen R. Gray was reared to agricultural pur-
suits, and made his home in his native county until
1836, when he came to Illinois to seek a location
and purchased a farm in Pike County, a part of
which is now included in the village of Barry.
In the fall of that year he returned to Rensselaer
County, and the following fall (1837) removed his
family, consisting of his wife and four children, to
their new home. They traveled with teams and
were about six weeks onthe journey. At that time
Barry was a hamlet of three or four log houses,
and he was among its early settlers and was po-
tent in promoting its growth. He and his family
remced into the log cabin that stood on his place,
and he actively entered upon the development of
his farm. He also soon gave liis attention to the
manufacture of lumber, and the sawmill that he

built was one of the first erected in that section of
the country.

Mr. Gray was influential in the public life of his
community, and was the first Postmaster of Harry.
The place was originally called Worcester, but
when the postoflice was established the name had
to be changed and Mr. Gray, at the suggestion of
others, proposed the name of Barry. He resided
there until about 1851 and then, removing to Pitts-
field, bought property in that city, and made his
home there the remainder of his life, his death oc-
curring in 1879. He was a man of firm character
and well-balanced mind, and was endowed with
good executive and business qualities. In his pol-
itics he wis a strong supporter of the Demociatic
party. In 1859 he was elected to the important
office of Sheriff of Pike County, and discharged
the duties of that position very satisfactorily. The
maiden name of the mother of our subject was Sa-
brina Bently, a native of Rensselaer County, N. H.
Her death took place in 1884 at Pittsfield, at a ripe
old age.

The subject of this biographical review was one
of a family of nine children. He was in his tenth
year when his parents came to Illinois and has
quite a distinct recollection of his early home in
his native State. During his early boyhood in
Berlin Township. Troy was the nearest market, and
it was twenty miles distant. He attended the first
school ever taught in Barry. When quite young
he commenced to assist in the duties of the farm,
thus quite early gaining an excellent knowledge of
agriculture. He made his home with his parents
until his twenty-first 3'ear and then went to St.
Louis, where he was engaged as a clerk in a com-
mission house between four and five years. After
that he went into business for himself, doing a
general commission business and dealing principally
in grain and country produce. He continued in
that until 1877, when lie came to Carlinville and
for a time engaged in milling. He subsequently
began again to deal in grain and also in live stock,
which business he is still carrying on with good
financial success.

In 1851 Mr. Gray married Miss Sarah E. Long,
who died in 1862, leaving one child — Mary L., now
the wife of W. C. Bush. Our subject was married

272

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

to bis present wife, formerly Miss Catherine Whit-
taker, in 1867. Mrs. Cray is a native of Pike
County and a daughter of A brain S. Whittaker, a
pioneer of that section of the State. Of this union
there are four children — Paul W., Daisy, Helen
and Frank M.

Our subject is a thoroughly upright, honest man,
always dealing fairly and squarely by all, and his
estimable character, as well as his capability, have
given him an important place among the civic
officials of his township which, as before mentioned,
he is well representing as one of the Macoupin
County Board of Supervisors. Politically, he is a
Democrat and his party finds in him a faithful sup-
porter. Religiously, both he and his estimable
wife are devoted and consistent members of the
Methodist Episcopal Church.

THOMAS J. JONES, a self-made and enter-
prising farmer whose home is situated on
section 16, Brighton Township, is a native
of Wales. He was born in Radnorshire, September
11, 1840, and is a son of James Jones, who was
also born in that county and there grew to mar-
hood, becoming a first-class farmer. He wedded
Mary Jones, who, though of the same name, was no
relation. However, she was born and reared in
the same parish as her husband. Unto them were
born eight children, three sons and five daughters,
all of whom are yet living and are married. The
three sons only came to this country and all are
successful farmers of Brighton Township. The
mother died at the age of fifty years in her native
land, after which with his two sons, Thomas and
John, the father emigrated to America in 1861,
taking passage on a steamer "City of Washington,''
which dropped anchor in the harbor of New York
on the 1st of August. They came direct to
Brighton, III., where the sons have since lived and
made good properties. The father afterward re-
turned for a few years to England but once more
came to this country and died at the home of our
subject on the 7th of June, 1874, at the age
of seventy-seven years. In the county of his na-

tivity he was widely and favorably known as one
of the best and most successful farmers. In relig-
ious belief, both he and his wife were Baptists.

Thomas J. Jones, whose name heads this notice,
was reared to habits of thrift and industry such as
would prepare him for a successful business career.
He was yet a single man man when he crossed the
Atlantic to America and some six years later he
was united in marriage with Miss Margaret Green,
a native of the province of Nassau, Germany, born
December 28, 1842. Her parents, John W. and
Maria (Kretzer) Green, were also born and reared
in that locality and when they had attained to
mature years were married. One child was born
unto them in the fatherland — -Mrs. Jones, wife of
our subject, and they then came to America, cross-
ing the Atlantic in the sailing vessel "Festaw,"
which sailed from Antwerp and after twenty-eight
days reached New York City. Their first location
was made in Ohio, but after two years they came
to Illinois, settling in Hardin County. Another
two years passed by and they then removed to
Madison County, where the succeeding twelve
years of their lives were passed. At the expira-
tion of that time they took up their residence in
Bunker Hill Township, this county, where Mrs.
Green died on the 1st of January, 1888, at the age
of eighty-seven years. Mr. Green is yet living on
his old farm in Bunker Hill Township and for a
man of his advanced age is wonderfully preserved.
In religious belief he is a Presbyterian, his wife
having also adhered to that faith. In their family
were three children of whom Mrs. Jones is the eld-
est; Lewis, the son, is married and follows farming
in Brighton Township; and Christina is keeping
house for her father.

For some time before her marriage, Mrs. Jones
earned her own living as a domestic. By their
union have been born eight children, six of whom
are yet living — William T., Anna M., Emma F.,
James A., Louis H. and Frank E. John and Ed-
ward are now deceased. In politics, Mr. Jones is
a stalwart supporter of the Democracy. He and
his estimable wife, by their unassuming, yet up-
right lives have won the confidence and regard of
all with whom they have come in contact. The
i farm upon which they reside and where they have

L1BRAKV

&. O, ^asf-uuyfc

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

275

a pleasant home consists of twohundred and thirty-
five acres of highly improved land on sections 9,
10, 14 and 16, Brighton Township. We have be-
fore spoken of Mr. .Junes as a self-made man, a
title which he well deserves for his possessions have
all been acquired through his own efforts, being
the result of his industry, enterprise, perseverance
and good management.

eHARLES O. MATLACK, who resides in
Shipman, was born near Iladdontield, Cam-
den County, N. J., December 4, 1828. His
father, William E. Matlack, had his nativity in
the same place March 14, 1802, and was the sou of
Josiah Matlack of Welsh ancestry. This grand-
father was a millwright by trade, and spent his en-
tire life in New Jersey. He served as an officer in
the War of 1812. The father of our subject was
reared to agricultural pursuits and resided in his
native State until 1857, when he came to the
Prairie State in time to spend one week in the home
of his affectionate son, our subject, before his de-
parture to the spirit land.

The maiden name of the mother of our subject
was Hope Osier. She also was born near Haddon-
field, N. J., and died in her native State in 1839,
when Charles was a lad of eleven years. The fa-
ther married a second time, being then united with
Frances Ferry, who died in Martinsburg, Mo.,
while on a visit there about the year 1881. Our
subject was reared and educated in his native
county, and assisted his father in carrying on a
farm, taking hold of agricultural pursuits as soon
as he was large enough to be of help. He resided
on the old homestead until 1855.

In the fall of that year Charles Matlack came to
Illinois and spent the first winter near Brighton.
The following spring he bought a tract of land in
Shipman Township. There was a frame house then
in process of construction and about eighty acres
of the land was improved when he took it. He re-
sided there until 187:3 and during that time placed
the land under cultivation, erected a barn and

completed the house, besides planting orchards
which are now in full bearing condition.

In 1873 Mr. Matlack placed his farm in the
hands of a tenant and removed to Shipman where
be has since that time lived a retired lite. His
marriage which took place in 1855 united him
with R. A. Abbott, who was born in Salem County,
N. J. Her father William and his father Joel, were
natives of the same county and of English an-
cestry. The American progenitor of this family
is said to have come to this country at a very early
date. The father of Mrs. Matlack was finely edu-
cated and a teacher by profession, but in his more
advanced years devoted himself to agriculture. He
came to Illinois in 1855 and settling near Brighton
spent bis last years there. He died April 21, 1884,
at the home of a daughter at Springfield, Mo.,
where he was visiting.

The maiden name of the mother of Mrs. Mat-
lack was Abigail Steward. She was born in Salem
County, N. J., of which her father, Nathan
Steward, was also a native. He was the son of
Joseph Steward, who was born in that State March
lit. 1708. From him the family genealogy is traced
back through Joseph Steward, the third, who was
born May 13, 1740, and bis father, Joseph Steward,
the second, who was born September 12, 1702, to
the original Joseph Steward, who with Alice
Wright, his wife, came from Scotland to America
in the Colonial days and settled in New Jersey.
Joseph the second married Bridget Middlcton a
daughter of John and Esther Middlcton, and died
March 12, 1780. Joseph the third married Ann
Bobbins, daughter of Nathaniel and Ruth Bobbins,
and died in 1813.

Nathan Steward, the grandfather of Mrs. Mat-
lack, married Rachel Morgan, the daughter of Jon-
athan and Bathsheba Morgan. He was a farmer
and spent his entire life in New Jersey, dying
April it, 1811. The mother of Mrs. Matlack died
in Salem County, N. J., July 16, 1847. The fa-
ther married 8 second time, his wife being Sarah
Hutchinson who passed away March 27, 1884. Mr.
and Mrs. Matlack are earnest and conscientious
members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and
they have laborers in the Sunday-school for many
years. He has also been Steward of the church for

276

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

a long time. The Republican party embodies in its
platform the political views to which he gives as-
sent. He takes an interest in educational matters
and was a member of the School Hoard, serving in
that capacity with credit to himself and advantage
to the district.

A lithographic portrait of Mr. Matlack appears
in connection with this biographical sketch.

|^s RED DUGGER,
j! not only one of 1
,fcs*^ ened and progr

of Scottsville Township, is
the foremost of the enlight-
progressive farmers and stock-
raisers of this county who have contributed so
largely to its present important position as a highly
developed, wealthy agricultural centre, but he is
likewise a leader in its public life, having held
various responsible civic offices from time to time
for several years past, and is at present a prominent
member of the Board of Supervisors.

Mr. Dugger is a native of this State, born in
Gallatin County, June 13, 1838. His father, John
Harrison Dugger, was born in Summer County,
Tenn.. March 14, 1811. His father, who bore the
same name as our subject, was a pioneer of that
State, and he was a soldier in the War of 1812,
serving under Gen. Jackson at the battle of New
Orleans. In 1829 he emigrated to Illinois, and
was one of the early settlers of Gallatin County,
where he entered land from the Government, which
he developed into a farm, whereon he spent his re-
maining days, which were long ip the land.

The father of our subject was a lad of fifteen years
when he came to this State with his parents. The
remainder of his youth was passed in Gallatin
County, where in due time he married and establish-
ed a home. He made a claim to a tract of Govern-
ment land, and in the log-house that he built upon
it his son of whom we write was born. It was a
primitive structure, the roof covered with boards
rived by hand and held in place by poles, no nails
entering into the construction of the house, and the
floor was made of split puncheon. In 1845 the father
sold that place, and on Christmas Day started for
Macoupin County with his wife and four children,

traveling with ox-teams, and bringing all his earth-
ly possessions with him, driving his slock before
him, and camping by the wayside at night. Two
weeks were consumed by this slow mode of journey-
ing, and after his arrival at his destination Mr.
Dugger rented land in Scottsville Township, which
he farmed two years prior to buying a tract of one
hundred and twenty acres on Apple Creek, to which
he later added forty acres entered from the Gov-
ernment adjoining his original purchase. He lived
there until 1856, and then sold that property and
made another move, going to Missouri and taking
up his residence in Adair Count}-. In 1860 he re-
turned to this county, and bought a part of some
land that he had formerly owned. He has since
sold that and now resides on section 6, of the same
township (Scottsville), where he is very pleasantly
situated. He has been twice married. The maiden
name of his first wife, mother of our subject, was
Minerva Pritehett. She was a native of William-
son County, Tenn., and a daughter of William T.
and Peggy Pritehett. She died in 1854. She nas
the mother of ten children. Mr. Dugger's second
wife was Lucinda Sharp, a native of Illinois, and a
daughter of Henry and Jane Sharp. Eleven chil-
dren have been born of this marriage.

Died Dugger was in his eighth year when the
family came to this county. His education was
obtained in the pioneer schools of the early years
of the settlement of this region, that were taught
in log-houses, which were heated by fires in rude
open fire places, and furnished with scats made by
splitting logs that were hewn smooth on one side.
Each building was lighted by the primitive method
of removing a log the entire length of the room,
and a row of glass being inserted in the aperture
thus made.

As soon as be was large enough our subject com
menced to assist in the labors of the farm, and thus
early became thoroughly drilled in agricultural pur-
suits. He resided with his parents until he com-
menced life for himself on rented land in Morgan
County. He lived there from 1856 to 1862, and
then invested in sixty acres of land in Scottsville
Township, at $i an acre, to be paid on time. He
built a hewn log- house, with an earth and stick
chimney, and for a time a blanket served for

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

277

a door. Later lie made a door with wooden
hinges and a wooden latch. Four years after he
purchased that place he exchanged it, for the farm
that he now owns and occupies. lie has four hun-
dred and seventy-live acres of choice land, the
greater part of which is tillage and pasture, and it
ranks as one of the best farms in this part of the
count}-, its harvest fields being under fine cultiva-
tion, and its improvements of a high order, includ-
ing a commodious and well-arranged set of frame
buildings.

Mr. Dugger has been very happy in his domestic
relations, as by his marriage December 3, 1857
with Miss Sirnea J. Hart, he secured a helpmate
that has been all to him that a true wife can be to
her husband. She was born at Hartland, in the
southern part of Morgan County, and is a daugh-
ter of David and Elizabeth (Rhodes) Hart, pioneers
of that part of Illinois. Mr. and Mrs. Dugger have
eleven children, named as follows, Elizabeth, Edgar
A., Lillie M., Alice L., Clara L., Hattie P>., Ro-
zella, James E., Magnolia, Luru E. and Ralph
Emerson.

The life of our subject has always been guided
by the highest principles of right and honor, and
the power of honesty and unswerving integrity is
shown by the implicit confidence in which he is
held by all, and by the various positions of trust
that his fellow-citizens, in just recognition of his
great worth and his capacity for affairs, have often
called upon him to hold, lie has a strong, well-
balanced mind, is a wise and safe counselor, and
has a just appreciation of the best business methods,
all of which make him a man of weight in the
public life of township and county, and he is one
of our best-known civic officers. He keeps well
informed on all topics of general interest, and es-
pecially in regard to politics, using his influence
in favor of the Democratic party. He has served
three years as Assessor, three years as Highway
Commissioner, a like number of years as Collector,
and several years as a member of the District
School Board.

Mr. Dugger was elected Supervisor from Scotts-
ville Township in 1885, and has been re-elected
each year since without opposition. As a member
of that Board he has been on various committees,

was at one time Chairman of the Board and of the
Judiciary Committee, and is now Chairman of the
Committee on Abatement and Assessment. He is
identified with the Union Alliance, No. 74, is Presi-
dent of the County Alliance, and was delegate from
Macoupin County to the State Alliance at Spring-
field and is now elected a Delegate to the State
convention at Springfield. Both our subject and
his wife are people of true religious convictions,
and are members in high standing of the Baptist
Church.

— *&&%• — -

ffiOHN WESLEY DUNCAN. This gentle-
man is engaged in the lumber business in
Palmyra and also handles lime, coal, hair,
cement and grain. He devotes himself
closely to his business and is doing well in that
line in which he decided to embark a few years
since. He is associated in business with his brother,
Joseph B., and the lumber yard they now own
was purchased by them in the fall of 1888. Mr.
Duncan is quite a young man, having been born
October 26, 1865, but he is showing the qualities of
which the good business man is made, and carry-
ing on his work according to the truest principles,
remembering that even in matters of trade, honesty
is a duty as well as good policy.

James Duncan, paternal grandfather of our sub-
ject, is thought to have been born in Virginia.
For many years his home was in Washington Coun-
ty, Tenn., and there his son James was born and
reared. The latter began his lifework as a school-
teacher, but having been reared to agricultural
pursuits he abandoned the profession after he had
taught several terms and took up farming. He
had come to this county and his first term of
school was at Simpson Hill in South Palmyra
Township. He began his farm work near Girard,
but after a time removed to the village and for
two years was occupied in the grain trade. He
then bought land in South Palmyra Township and
resumed farming, giving it his entire attention un-
til 1881, when he took up the lumber business, al-
though ho still occupied his farm. He died there
in 1888. He left a widow and three children, John

278

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

Wesley, Joseph B. and James T. The widow still
occupies the homestead. She bore the maiden
name of Abigail Proftitt. She was born in Wash-
ington County, Tenn., and is a daughter of Daniel
and Sarah Prottitt, pioneers of this county. Grand-
father Duncan came hither after the death of his
wife and spent his last days with his son James,
dying about 1863.

The birthplace of our subject was the village of
Girard, but he was reared on the farm. After tak-
ing the course of study in the public school he
spent a year in Shurtleff College in Upper Alton.
He made his home with his parents until his mar-
riage, then located in the village of Nilwood, but
still gave his attention to farming. He lived there
two years, then moved to Palmyra and entered
upon the work he is now pursuing. He was mar-
ried in 1888 to Miss Fannie B. Thacker, who was
born in Nilwood Township and is a daughter of
Zachary and Nancy Thacker, a biographical sketch
of whom appears on another page of this Record.
Husband and wife belong to the Baptist Church,
of which Mr. Duncan's mother is also a member
and his father for many years was a Deacon. Our
subject and wife have one daughter living, Bertit F.
Mr. Duncan votes the Republican ticket. He is
connected with the Palmyra Building <fe Loan As-
sociation and socially belongs to Palmyra Camp,
No. 149. M. W. A.

(fp^ AMUEL TRIBLE, M. D., became a resi-
^5 dent of this county in 1836, and from that

\V£3/ time to lhe P resent ' w ' 1 ' 1 tlle exception of
a few earlier years, has been a potent fac-
tor in its prosperity, particularly in agricultural
affairs. He is now living at Piasa, to which place
he removed from the homestead in 1885. He is
the owner of the celebrated Mad Stone, which was
exhibited at the Centennial Exposition in Philadel-
phia and which has been tested many times and suc-
cessfully demonstrated its curative properties. Dr.
Trible guarantees to cure bites and wounds caused
by mad dogs, and hydrophobia, and makes no
charge if he does not succeed. He frequently goes

with the best physicians in the county to points
where rabid animals have bitten people, and he is
looked upon quite in the light of a public bene-
factor. Although he does not practice medicine he
holds a diploma from the College of Philadelphia.

Dr. Trible was born in Devonshire, England,
November, 1821, and is the elder son of Samuel
and Susan (Trible) Trible. The family came to
America in 1836, and set up their home on a tract
of raw prairie in this county. The mother died in
September after their arrival, and the father lived
only until August of the ensuing year, when he
joined his companion on the other shore. In ac-
cordance with his father's wish Samuel Trible re-
mained on the farm and looked to the interests of
his brother John, who was four years younger than
himself. The younger son was aided to a thorough
education and became a graduate from Shurtleff
College in Alton. He studied law and piacticed
in Alton, of which city he became attorney. He
resigned the position when the Civil War broke
out and entered the service as Captain. He was
wounded at the battle of Arkansas Post and died a
few days later. He left one son, now Dr. John
Trible, of Waverly, this State.

Our subject improved the farm, replacing the
cabin that was first built thereon for a better dwell-
ing, and gradually adding other structures, as the
work carried on made necessary or convenient.
He now owns four hundred acres of land all well
improved and when, in 1885, he decided to take
up his residence elsewhere, he bought good prop-
erty across the road within the limits of Piasa.
His home is not only supplied with every comfort,
but has some features very unusual. Perhaps the
most conspicuous is a pipe organ which he bought
while in England on a visit to his uncle. Mr Tri-
ble sojourned in Europe eighteen months and
greatly enjoyed the sights of the Old World, al-
though he was quite willing to return to America
to live.

The lady who presides over Dr. Trible's hom6
bore the maiden name of Mattie Reynolds, and to
them there have been born five children. But one
of these survives, a son, George. Dr. Trible has
never desired public office, but is public spirited
and liberal handed. He gave the ground on which

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

279

the Methodist Episcopal Church stands and that
which is used for the cemetery, donated a mile of
light of way to the railroad and grounds for the
depot. He votes the Republican ticket and can
give a good reason for so doing. His religious
home is in the Methodist Episcopal Church. lie
was a hard worker in his early life, even keeping
house for himself while he was improving the
homestead, and he knows what it is to struggle and
toil. He is able, therefore, to sympathize with
others and to point out the honest industrious line
of life which will lead to success. For the pioneer
work he has done, the upright life he has lived,
and the interest he has shown in progress, he is
esteemed by all who know him.

*^N«£

;^s^~

ILLIAM E. P. ANDERSON, of the legal
firm of Anderson & Bell, of Carlinville,
and Master of Chancery (for Macoupin
County) stands well at the head of his profession,
his clear apprehension of the fundamental princi-
ples of law, his success in his practice, and his high
personal character, having early won him a prom-
inent place at the bar of this State. Our subject
is a native-born citizen of this county, and is a
representative of a family whose name has been
associated with the rise and progress of this sec-
tion of Illinois from the early years of its settle-
ment.

Mr. Anderson was born May 31, 1850, on the
north half of section 7, Shaw's Point Township, in
the home of his parents, Erasmus S. and Mary E.
(Hogan) Anderson. His father was a native of
Christian Count}', Ky., and was a son of Col. James
C. Anderson, who was a Virginian by birth. The
father of the latter was one of the three brothers
who came to this country in Colonial times. The
great-grandfather of our subject settled in Virginia,
whence he subsequently removed to Bourbon
County, Ky., of which he was one of the original
pioneers. He entered a thousand acres of land in
that wild region, and as far as known spent the re-
mainder of his life there. He was unfortunate in

his later years and met with reverses whereby he
lost all his property.

Col. Anderson, who was an officer in a regiment of
the Kentucky State militia while a resident of Christ-
ian County, early had to assume the responsibil-
ities of life on his own account after his father lost
his property, and at the age of sixteen he left the
shelter of the parental roof, and from that time
cared for himself. He learned the trade of a hatter,
but he did not follow it long, as a sedentary occu-
pation was little to the taste of one of his active
temperament. He went from Bourbon to Christian
County in Kentucky, and there bought a tract of
land. He carried on farming, and remained a resi-
dent of that county until 1834. In that year, ac-
companied by his wife and six children, he started
for Illinois with a pair of oxen attached to a
wagon, which con veyed the household goods, and
the family rode in a two-horse carriage. Bidding
adieu to friends, they left their old Kentucky home
behind them on the 12th of October, and traveling
as fast as they could over the intervening wild
country, camping and cooking by the wayside at
night, they an ived at Carlinville, near the scene
of their future dwelling place, fifteen days later.
They found here but a small hamlet of houses
where now stands a nourishing city, and in a log
cabin which the grandfather of the suhject rented,
the family passed the winter.

The Colonel was well fitted by a bold, intrepid
nature, a resolute will, and great capability to cope
with the hardships of a frontier life, and he active-
ly entered upon his pioneer labors of building up a
new home in the primeval wilds that were the en-
vironments of the location that he had selected.
He had visited this region the June before, and
had entered from the Government four hundred
acres of land on section 11, of what is now Carlin-
ville Township, and during the winter of 1834-35
he erected a log house on his land, riving boards
to cover the roof, and splitting puncheon for the
floor. The family moved into that typical pioneer
abode in the spring of 1835, and there the Colonel
and his wife dwelt in comfort and contentment
until their untimely death of the cholera in 1851,
she dying thirteen days after he had breathed his
last. She was likewise a native of Virginia, and

280

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

her maiden name was Ann Rice Harris. The grand-
father was a man of more than ordinary intelli-
gence, always a great reader, and well posted. He
was especially interested in politics, giving hearty
support to the Whig party, and he was an ardent
admirer of Henry Clay. He and his wife reared
these seven children — Crittenden II. C, Maria C,
Erasmus S., Augustus E., Malcolm M., Henry
Clay and Mary A.

Erasmus Anderson was a lad of twelve years
when the family came to this county. He was
reared to agricultural pursuits, and at the time of
marriage had settled on a farm of two hundred and
sixty acres, on the northern half of section 7,
Shaw's Point Township. He was quite an exten-
sive trader in live-stock and real estate, was one of
the substantial men of the county who was a val-
uable factor in its upbuilding, and by his prema-
ture death of cholera August 20, 1851, in the full
vigor of life that seemed to promise many more
years of usefulness, it suffered a serious loss to its
interests. His wife preceded him in death only a
few days, dying of the same dread disease August
16, 1851. She was a native of Shelby County,
Ky., and a daughter of Isaac and Nancy Hogan.
Her father emigrated from her native county to
this county, and was one of the early pioneers of
North Palmyra Township. He vvas a prosperous
farmer and trader. His life was cut short when
in its prime by his death on his homestead at the
age of forty-four years.

The subject of this brief biography was the only
child of his parents, and after their sad death when
he was only fifteen months old he was taken in
charge by his uncle, Crittenden H. C. Anderson,
who cared for him tenderly, and reared him to an
honorable life. As soon as he was old enough he
made himself useful in herding cattle on the open
prairie and in working on the farm by the month.
He attended the common schools as opportunity
offered, and laid a substantial foundation for his
after pursuit of knowledge. His aunt, Mary J.
Anderson, was very desirous that he should have a
good education, and it was through her interest in
his behalf that at the age of fourteen he became a
student at Blackburn University, which he attended
six months of the year for two years. He then

worked in a "woolen mill one year, but he had by
no means abandoned the idea of securing a higher
education, and at the age of seventeen he entered
Wesleyan University at Blooinington, and was in
attendance there two years.

Returning to Carlinville after he left the Uni-
versity, Mr. Anderson studied law in the office of
John Mayo Palmer a part of the time the following
year. In 1870 he went to Philadelphia, and was
in a private school in that city six months. At
the expiration of that time he came back to Carlin-
ville and entered the olfice of Judge William R.
Welch in April. 1871, and on August 31 of the
same year he was admitted to the liar. Although
lie was fully equipped to enter upon his profession-
al career, he preferred to prepare himself still
further, and assiduously continued his studies until
June 1872, when he opened an office in Carlinville.
where he has practiced law ever since. September
1, 1877, Alexander H. Bell became his partner,
under the firm name of Anderson & Bell, and the
partnership still continues to their mutual advan-
tage. Not only is our subject prominent in the
professional and public life of this his native coun-
ty, but he is one of its foremost agriculturists. He
has an inherent love for farming, and now owns
five hundred acres of highly cultivated land, in-
eluding two fine farms in Carlinville Township.

Mr. Anderson and Miss Nellie D. Hamilton were
united in marriage October 23, 1873, and their
home is one of the most inviting and attractive in
Carlinville, so full and free in its delightful hospi-
tality and the nameless charm of an all-pervading
air of ease and comfort. Mrs. Anderson is a nat-
ive of McLean County, this State, and a daughter
of John and Rebecca (Pritchard) Hamilton. The
following is the record of the three children that
complete the household of our subject and his
wife: William Hamilton was born August 8, 1874:
Crittenden H. C, March 18, 1878; Walter Stratton..
October 4, 1881. Mrs. Anderson is a woman of
fine character, filling in a perfect measure her posi-
tion as wife and mother, and in her the Methodist
Episcopal Church has a valued member.

Mr. Anderson, as a lawyer with a clear concep-
tion of the legal questions involved, unites a won-
derful industry and a tireless pertinacity whk'l

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

281

re invaluable. He is honest, conscientious and
ailuful always. He never wearies in a cause which
ie regards as just. Is always faithful to his trust,
nd promptly and carefully attends to whatever
nay be entrusted to his care. Honesty, industry
■id unfailing promptness distinguish his character
t all times. He has a frank and generous nature,
3 courteous and considerate in his intercourse
k-it.Ii others, and both his public and private life
3 blameless.

His fellow-citizens, admiring his talents and ap-
preciating his fitness for responsible positions, have
iften honored him and themselves by electing him
o some public office. He served as City Attorney
n 1874 and 1875, and in 1877 was elected Assista-
nt Supervisor to represent Carlinville Township
.11 the County Board of Supervisors, and he was
Influential in securing the funding of the county
lebt that year. He has interested himself in local
durational matters, and for four terms was a mem-
ter of the Carlinville Board of Education. In Oc-
ober, 1887, Mr. Anderson was appointed Master
n Chancery by Judge Welch, he being regarded
is Hie man best qualified in many respects for that
losition, and in October, 1889, he was re-appointed
O that office, by Judge Jesse J. Phillips, with the
ipproval of the entire bar. We can but add that
lis able and faithful discharge of his duties as
Master of Chancery since his appointment has jus-
ificd his selection. Mr. Anderson cast his first
Presidential vote for Horace Greeley in 1872, and
lasbeena confirmed Democrat ever since then.

f) OHN W. HARRISON. The genial owner
of the farm located on section 18, Nil wood
Township, is conspicuous for the success he
has attained by his close application to his
business, of whose minutiae he has complete mast-
iy. He is a go-ahead, pushing man, in fact a fair
lype of an American farmer, quick to turn every
feature of nature to its own advantage. Mr. Har-
rison is of English parentage, his father, being John
W . Harrison who was born in England. His nioth-
i. .Mary (Snyder) Harrison, was a native of Mary-

land. After their marriage they settled in Cov-
ington, Ky., and from there moved to Shelby
County, Ohio, where they Lived. In 1852 Mr. Har-
rison went to California with the idea of engaging
in gold mining. He, however, died in Yuba County,
Cal., in 1850. The mother, after her husband's
death, removed from Shelby County, Ohio to
Springfield, Ohio, where she died. They were the
parents of four children, three daughters and one
son. Our subject was the second child.

Mr. Harrison was born in Shelby County, Ohio,
September 22, 1847. There he grew to manhood,
and at the call for volunteers during the late war
he enlisted, February 1862, in Company K, of the
Twentieth Ohio Regiment, lie served until the
close of the war, his time covering a period of three
years: he then re-enlisted as a veteran and served
until he was discharged. He took part in many of
the desperate battles for which the war of the rebel-
lion will ever be noted. He was slightly wounded in
the neck at the battle of Shiloh. He was appointed
as Dispatch Orderly under Gen. Logan and after-
ward held the same position under Gen. M. D. Leg-
gelt. After his discharge he returned to Shelby
County, Ohio, whe;e he remained about one and
one-half years and then came to Girard, 111. where
he worked for Aaron Hickman for a space of one
year and then rented some land which he farmed
on his own account. He soon after this purchased
eighty acres of land near Girard which he afterward
sold and purchased two hundred acres. To this he
has since added one hundred and forty acres.

Mr. Harrison does not believe in a divided affec-
tion nor does he think that any enterprise can be a
success unless it is made a specialty. He gives his
attention wholly to farming with its legitmate
branches. He is much interested in stock raising
shipping his stock to metropolitan markets. This
business he has found to be lucrative and satisfa-
tory in that there is a better chance to attain a
higher degree of perfection in breeding animals
than in raising crops.

The original of this biography united himself for
better or worse March 18, 1868, to Miss Mary C.
Powers, a daughter of George and Casander
(Brown)Powers. Thenuptials took place in Girard.
The parents of Mrs. Harrison are both natives of

282

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

Pennsylvania. The father died in Park County.
Ohio; the mother passed away in Nilwood Town-
ship, at the residence of her daughter Mary, May
30, 1884. She was horn in Rush County, Ind.,
September 18, 1849.

Our subject and his wife have welcome.', into
their home nine children whose names are as follow:
Hugh W., Charles W., Edward C, Herbert M.,
Maud M., Lulu E., Nola E., and Ada M. Hugh
and one Other child were taken away from their
parents in infancy. Mr. Harrison has been school
Director for several years. Mrs. Harrison, who is
a woman of unusual ability and intelligence main-
taining herself in every position in which she may
be placed with dignity and elegance, is a mem-
ber of the Christian Church, and in her social rela-
tions her genial and amiable temperament com-
mend her most affectionately to all who are thrown
in her daily pathway.

— H-

-*£

W AMES G. HAGLER. One of the substan-
I tial men in Macoupin County, who owns a
finely improved farm of three hundred and
five acres on section 15, North Otter Town-
ship, and which is devoted, as is so much of the
fertile valley of Central Illinois, largely to the cul-
tivation of fine stock as well as general fanning.
This place is owned by the gentleman whose name
heads this sketch.

For a history of Mr. Hagler's parents see a sketch
of John G. Hagler on another page of this volume.
. Our subject was one of fourteen children, who
were impartially divided, there being seven sons and
seven daughters. Of these children our subject
was the third child and second son. He was born
September 28, 1820, in Madison County, this
State. There he grew to manhood and lived until
he was about twenty-four years old.

The years of our subject's adolescence were much
like those of other farmer lads. He attended dis-
trict school and got into mischief as boys will.
The long summers were full of hard work, relieved
by some frolics. The severity of winter lest its
sting by the pleasure of looking forward to the

■ singing schools and frolics in the barns where
country dances were participated in with vim if
not with elegance. Such pleasures as these varied
the monotony and tedious routine of the life of the
farmer boy until he reached his twenty-fourth year,
when he felt that he must branch out for himself.

In 1845 Mr. Hagler went to Morgan County and
for a time he lived on a farm which he had pur-
chased on his arrival there. In four years he sold
this out and came to Macoupin County, having
been a resident in North Otter Township since that
time, with the exception of two years, when he re-
turned to Madison County. He has always been
engaged in farming and agricultural pursuits and
now owns the fine farm above mentioned, upon
which he has erected at great expense buildings
that arc adequate for the demands of storage, etc.
Our subject was married in Morgan County, this
Slate, to Miss Elvira E. Millen, a daughter of Arch-
ibald and Polly (Graham) Millen, wiio died in Mor-
gan County. Mrs. Elvira Hagler was born in
Monroe County, October 9, 1825. She was the
mother of five children, they being Mary E., who
died in infancy; Harvey T., who is a farmer in
Colorado; John H., a miner; William I. and Hiram
B., who died in childhood. Mr. Hagler's wife
died August 18. 1853, in the county in which
was their residence. On the 23d of Novem-
ber 1854, he gave his motherless children a new
guardian, his second wife being Miss Clarissa
Falls, a daughter of William and Sarah (Dixon)
Falls. The mother died in North Carolina and the
father in Bond County, 111. The present Mrs.
Hagler was born in North Carolina, January 5,
1833. She is the mother of nine children, who are
Sidney, Frances I., Homer B., Janette, Alice, El-
mer E., George L., Arthur L. and Carrie M. The
eldest soil is the proprietor of a farm in North Ot-
ter Township; his eldest sister is the wife of
Homer B. Mitchell, of North Otter; Janette is
the wife of Thomas Graham ; Alice was united in
marriage to Ellsworth Chartin; Elmer is a physician
in Ann Arbor, Mich.

Our subject has been elected School Treasurer of
the township and held the position for eleven
years, thereby demonstrating the confidence that
the people have in his honor and integrity. He

iiBfumr

Of THE

uHfvewitV #r uunois

ROBERT' ,JAR.M-AN.

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

285

was formerly an adherent of the Republican part}',
but of late has been an active worker in the Pro-
hibition party. Mr. Haglcr and his wife are mem-
bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which
he has filled various offices. II is wife is highly es-
teemed as being a woman of exceptional ability
and intellectual gifts.

ROBERT JARMAN, a resident of Shaw's
Point Township, was born in Devonshire,
England, in May, 1833. There he passed
the early years of his life, being employed
upon a farm, and caring for horses, until he was
twenty years old. He then came to America in
1853 and landing in Quebec, proceeded to Chicago,
but resided there only a short time, going with a
friend to Lake County, III. He was employed in
Waukegan for a while and in the vicinity of that
city on a farm until fall, and then came down the
Illinois River to Alton, where for two years he was
employed in a slaughter-house.

We next find our subject in Jersey County, 111.,
where he hired out for nine months on a farm.
Then buying a team and renting land in company
with his cousin John Sloman, now a resident of
Honey Point Township, he farmed it for three
years. He then engaged in running a threshing
machine in company with two other men and car-
ried on this kind of work for ten years in Jersey
County. In the spiing of 1860 he came to Ma-
coupin County, and bought fifty acres in Honey
Point Township, but returned to Jersey County for
the threshing season and then came back to his farm
in Honey Point. He set out an orchard, made var-
ious improvements, and lived there for four years,
removing thence to Shaw's Point Township.

Mr. Jarman became a soldier in the Civil War,
enlisting in Company K, One Hundred and Forty-
fourth Illinois Regiment in the fall of 1864. He
served until May 25, 18G5, when he was mustered
out of the service. He then returned to his home
in Shaw's Point Township, where he has since re-
sided. Farming has been his chief occupation, al-

though he makes a specialty of One stock of all
kinds, and is the owner of some splendid speci-
mens. He has four hundred acres and upon his
farm he has erected an excellent set of buildings,
which indicate the thrift and enemy of the owner.

On March 4, 1861, Robert Jarman and Selinda
McDow were united in marriage in Jersey County,
and since that time the estimable wife may be justly
said to have divided the sorrows and doubled the
joys which have come to her husband. Mrs. Jar-
man is a native of Jersey County and was born
April 28, 1835. Of the children born unto them
five survive, viz: Margaret M., born December 15,
1861; Elmer E., December 4, 1863, and now an
engineer in California; Lura E., born in 1872;
Charles O.. May 18, 1875, and Emma M., July 8,
1880. Four children have been laid to rest by the
mourning parents: Carrie E., who was born March
1, 1*66, died when twenty years old February 27,
1886; Mary II., born July 28, 1870, died August
10, 1871 ; Willie born February 4, 1878, died Jan-
uary 27, 1879; Freddie E., who was born October
27, 1867, died February 27, 1868.

In all matters calculated to advance the interests
of the community where he resides, Mr. Jarman is
intensely and actively interested. He is a promi-
nent member of the Republican party, anil has
filled various offices, among them that of Highway
Commissioner. He belongs to the Farmers' Mutual
Benefit Association and to Shaw's Point Horse Thief
Detective Society. His wife is a consistent and earn-
est member of the Christian Church, and he con-
tributes liberally to the support of every religious
and benevolent enterprise.

The parents of our subject were Philip and Eliza-
beth (Sloman) Jarman, both natives of Devonshire,
England, where they died. Mr. Jarman was a ma-
son and architect by occupation. The parents of
Mrs. Jarman were Thomas and Mary L. (Lofton)
McDow, the former was born in North Carolina
and the latter in Kentucky. They were among the
early settlers of Jersey Count}', III., to which they
came from Kentucky at an early day. He was a
farmer by occupation. Mr. Jarman takes great
pride in his line stock, and also in the general con-
dition of his farm. The buildings are first-class
in every way ami conduce not only to the happi-

286

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

ncss of the household but to the well-being of the
farm stock. Mr. Jarman is a man with a deep fund
of information and of broad intelligence, and his
wife being a lady of great loveliness of character
and refinement of taste, it is natural that they are
universally esteemed. On another page of this
volume the reader will find a lithographic portrait
of Mr. Jarman.

ENRY J. B( >WN. Among the most prosper-
ous and thrifty fanners of Bird Township,
we may count a number who are of English
birth or parentage, and who had learned
farming in a most thorough and systematic manner
in the old country. An English farmer is seldom
careless and unsystematic in his plan of work. He
has learned to economize space and to let nothing
lie about at loose ends. These methods of work
transferred to the broad and fertile prairies of the
West make the best of farmers. Among these
British-Americana we may name Henry J. Bown,
who resides on section 12.

The parents of our subject were Samuel and
Jemima (Barnstable) Bown, who were natives of
Somersetshire, England, where they were reared,
married, lived and died. Mr. Bown was a farmer
by occupation and trained his children in the prac-
tical work of agriculture. This worthy couple
were the parents of thirteen children of whom
Henry is the youngest. His birth took place in
Somersetshire, England July 15, 1800. He had
reached the age of thirteen years when he left home
and went to London, England, to make his home
for five years with his eldest brother, Samuel. Here
he engaged in peddling milk. In the fall of 1878
he came to America, making an end to his long
journey by settling in Macoupin County.

When this young man first arrived in Illinois he
lived for two years in Polk Township, and after
this was employed by the late Charles Morris of
Carlinville Township for three years on his farm.
He then worked for Samuel E. Killam for two years
and for Mr. Denby about a year and a half. His
happy marriage January 5, 1887, with Miss Sarah

Morris, presaged a period of prosperity and was
the beginning of a life of true domestic happiness.
The lady who now became Mrs. Bown is a daugh-
ter of the late Charles Morris, whose sketch appears
elsewhere in this book. She was born in Carlinville
Township April 2, 1865. Two children have
blessed this home. They are named Minnie B. and
Charles S.

Mr. Bown has a splendid farm of two hundred
and thirty acres. It is in excellent condition and
thoroughly cultivated. He has erected upon it a
convenient and pleasant home and an excellent set
of farm buildings. He makes a specialty of fine
graded stock and gives to them kind and judicious
care. In politics he is Republican but is not an
otiice-seeker, but takes an intelligent interest, not
only in local affairs, but in county, State and na-
tional elections. He is a wide-awake, progressive
farmer and well merits the esteem and confidence
which is shown him by his neighbors.

Si! EVIN N. ENGLISH. Few residents of
Shaw's Point Township have so strong a
•laim on the consideration of the readers
of this volume as Mr. English. He has borne an
honorable part in the public affairs of the county,
and has successfully prosecuted a farmer's career.
In noting the present prosperity of Macoupin
County, it is well to remember that it was once a
great tract of undeveloped land and that those
who brought it to its present condition underwent
much toil and in many cases suffered privations
unknown to men of the present day. The subject
of this biographical sketch, who came to this
county in his youth, has aided in the development
of his community, and has in the meantime gath-
ered around him many of the comforts and con-
veniences which belong to modern farm life. Of
a generous and hospitable nature, he holds a high
place in the esteem of his neighbors.

Many years ago the ceremony was performed
which united in marriage Thomas English, a native
of Maryland, and Ally Cooper, a native of Ken-
tucky. They located in what was then Greene

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

2X7

County, but now a part of Jersey County, III.,
which was their home until death. Twelve chil-
dren were horn to them, of whom our subject was
the eleventh in order of birth. On September 21,
1830, he was born in Greene County, and there
passed his childhood amid pioneer scenes. At
an early age he gained a thorough practical
knowledge of agriculture in all its departments
and to this labor he determined to devote himself
when he was ready to take up the work of life.
His parents dying when he was quite young, the
orphaned lad cp.me to Macoupin County and made
his home with a sister, Mrs Eleanor Fullington.

In Shaw's Point Township, Mr. English grew to
man's estate. At the age of twenty-two he re-
moved to Missouri, where, however, he sojourned
only a short time, returning to this township and
renting the farm he now owns on section 35. Af-
ter following farming pursuits here five years he
removed to an adjoining farm, which he purchased
and improved. He has engaged principally in
general farming although devoting some atten-
tion to stock-raising, in which he has met with
more than ordinary success. His chief interest
centers in his estate, but he holds exalted ideas of
the duties and privileges of citizenship and never
misses an opportunity to advocate by ballot and
influence those principles he believes to be for the
best progress of the country. In him the Demo-
cratic party finds a stanch adherent rnd one who
takes an active part in political affairs. He has
served his fellow-citizens in various capacities,
holding the office of Supervisor one term, also
serving as Constable and Highway Commissioner.

The lady who presides with grace over the home
of Mr. English, was formerly known as Miss Mary
West, and is the daughter of Edward and Eliza
beth (FoxWell) West, natives of North Carolina
and Virginia. They were early settlers in Jersey
County, III., where the mother died. The father
spent his last days with his daughter, Mrs. English,
and there he died at a good old age. Mrs. English
who was the fourth in a family of five children,
was born in St. Clair County, III., April 5, 1835,
and was there married November 2, 1854. Mr.
English and his estimable wife are the parents of
five children: Robert W., who married Miss Edna

L. Johnson; Levin N., Jr.; Ella L., the wife of
Harvey Allen; Alary V., and John N. Mrs. Eng-
lish is a consistent member of the Baptist Church
and an active worker in that organization. So-
cially, Mr. English is identified with the Masonic
fraternity.

— -^m- —

|(^S;R. MAHYEL THOMAS, one of the lead-
ing young physicians of this county, now
(Qklr successfully engaged in the practice of
medicine and surgery in Gillespie, was
born near Plainview, in Hilyard Township, on the
8th of October, 1855, and comes of good old Revo-
lutionary stock. The great-grandfather of our sub-
ject, John Thomas, was one of five brothers who
enlisted in the Revolutionary War, but during that
struggle they became separated, and the family has
since been divided; in fact, they have few known
relations. John David Thomas, the grandfather
of the Doctor, was born in South Carolina, and af-
ter marrying a lady of that State, began life upon
a farm. Some years later he emigrated Westward
with his family and settled in St. Clair Count}-, 111.
as did also his father, who was Secretary of the
Territory, and after the admission of Illinois to the
Union, became the first Secretary of State. He
died at an advanced age, a man of prominence and
influence, whose loss was mourned by many friends.
His name is inseparably connected with the early
history of the Stale, for he did much in the inter-
ests of the public.

John Thomas and his wife resided in St. Clair
County during the Territorial days of Illinois, and
on the 29th of June, 1S18, the year of the admis-
sion to the Union, William A. Thomas was born.
When a lad of sixteen years he came with I he fam-
ily to Macoupin County in 1834, and subsequently
entered land from the Government in Hilyard
Township, developing therefrom a farm, upon
which the parents resided until called to their linn I
rest. The old homestead fell into the hands of
their son William A., who died in December, 1881,
and left the property to his four children. It is
now in the possession of ihe Doctor and his brother
Harris, and consists of two hundred and forty acres

288

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

of highly improved land. This farm has never
been out of the familj- since it was obtained from
the Government about sixty years ago. William
Thomas spent the days of his boyhood and youth
in the usual manner of farmer lads, and when he
had attained to mature years, wedded Lueinda Le
May, who was born in Indiana, and when a child
came to Illinois with her parents, the family set-
tling near Plainview, where the father and mother
died. The death of Mrs. Thomas occurred in 1863,
at the age of forty years. She was a member of
the Baptist Church, and a lady whose many acts of
kindness and deeds of charity won her the love of
all. Mr. Thomas became a prominent citizen of
Ililyard Township, and was a leader in local poli-
tics. His business affairs prospered, and he became
quite well-to-do. He was a believer in religion,
anil all that tended to elevate mankind and lived
an upright life. In harmony with the thought that
"the groves were God's first temples," his father,
John D. Thomas, would often repair to a beautiful
grove near his home for a quiet hour of prayer,
and in reverence William Thomas would never per-
mit it to be cut down or molested in any way.

We now take up the personal history of our sub-
ject, who upon the old Thomas homestead was
reared to manhood in the usual manner of farmer
lads, spending his boyhood days midst play and
work. His literary education was acquired in the
public schools, and when he had determined to
make the medical profession his life work, he began
reading under private direction. Our subject en-
tered Blackburn University in the fall of 1873, and
after completing a regular course, he was gradu-
ated with the degree of B. IS. After a time he en-
tered the Missouri Medical College of St. Louis,
from which institution he was graduated with the
Class of '84. He entered upon practice in Palmyra
immediately thereafter, and five years ago opened
an oflice in Gillespie, where he has since built up
a large and lucrative practice.

The Doctor was married in Palmyra, to Minnie
F., daughter of D. N. Solomon, a prominent busi-
ness man and leading citizen of that place. The
lady was born in Macoupin County, on the 8th of
April, 1863, and is a graduate of the University of
Lincoln, 111. She was also a student for some time

in the Jacksonville Female College, and is a lady
of intelligence and culture, who occupies a promi-
nent position in the social world. Hospitality
abounds in her own home, which she presides over
with the grace and dignity of an accomplished
lady. In polities the Doctor is a Democrat. He
has worked his way upward to the front rank of the
medical profession, and his skill and ability have
won him a liberal patronage.

•■6h*-» *

XDREW IIUBER. Commercial life
throughout America has been stimulated
and invigorated by assimilating to itself
the versatility, energy and enthusiasm of
the Gaulic race. Descendants of this race are
everywhere found to be successful farmers, mer-
chants and dealers in various branches of business.
Andrew Iluber is the leading business man of the
city of Bunker Hill. His is the best business house
in the town, centrally located at the southeast cor-
ner of Washington and Warren Streets. He is a
dealer in dry-goods, clothing, men's furnishing
goods, boots and shoes, hats and caps, millinery,
carpets, etc. The magnitude of his business may
be estimated when it is known that his income is
upwards of $20,000 annually and that in outside
business, such as dealing in grain, wool, apples and
as a manufacturer of barrels, he does an annual bus-
iness of ¥75,000. He is a hard-working man and
wrapped up in his commercial pursuits.

Mr. II nber was born in New Orleans, La., No-
vember 2, 1856, where he lived with his parents
until 1878, being educated in the Mound City Col-
lege. His life has for the most part been spent in
this part of Illinois. He went into business for
himself in 1880 and has maintained his position at
the present stand since 1884. He is a practical,
far-seeing business man, one to whom the interests
of the town are pre-eminently important — helpful
in every way.

Our subject was married to Miss Augusta Fah-
renkrog, November 23, 1882, in Bunker Hill.
The lady was born in Madison County, III., Janu-
ary 6, 1865, and was reared and educated in Bun-

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

28!)

ker Hill. Naturally attractive and by virtue of
lier husband's high position as a leading merchant
of the city, she takes her place as a leader of soci-
ety and their home is the center of the best life, so-
cially and intellectually, of the community. Mr.
and Mrs. Ruber attend and are members of the
Lutheran Church. They are the proud parents of
three daughters — Clara E., Ettic F. and Bertha L.
Scarcely a project has been inaugurated in the
city in which Mr. Huber has not been a leading
spirit. He has been City Treasurer for sometime,
for two years a member of the City Council, Vice
President and Director of the Building Associa-
tion, Director and President of the Bunker Hill
Nail Company, Treasurer of the Bunker Hill Fire
Company, and is also proprietor of the Huber Op-
era House, which is over his store. Such men as
these give us our reputation abroad as being the
most energetic and far-seeing business men of the
world.

♦S*£sj-

B RTHTJR BOYLE, a general farmer and
i stock-raiser and a very successful busi-
ness man, located on section 12, of Hil-
yard Township, owns a fine tract of three
hundred and twenty acres, most of which is under
the plow, and which is adorned with fine farm
buildings. He has owned this place for the
past nine years and it formerly belonged to bis
father.

Our subject was born in Burton, N. J., April 1,
1856, and is the eldest son of William and Mar-
garet (McPhillips) Boyle, natives of the North of
Ireland. Mr. Boyle came of Scotch-Irish Protes-
tant stock and his wife's parents were Roman
Catholics. This couple were reared and married
in Count}' Deny, and soon after their union emi-
grated to this country, leaving their native shore
on board a sailing-vessel and landing in New York
City about the year 1858. They settled for a
time in New Jersey and three years later came to
this State, making their home in Ililyard Town-
ship, and here beginning life without capital ex-
cept their own character, health and youth. After
renting land for a time, they saved enough money

to purchase their first eighty acres, which, after
improving, they augmented by purchase until they
owned a whole half section. This large tract of
rich farming land Mr. Boyle improved and made
of it one of the best farms in this township.

After acquiring and improving this handsome
property, Mr. Boyle died at his comfortable and
beautiful home in December. ISM, having then
reached the age of sixty-six years. He had joined
the Methodist Episcopal Church early in life soon
after coming to this count'}-, and died in that
faith and in the hope of a glorious resurrection.
He was a sound Republican in his political views
and a man of thought on public matters. He was
a good and worthy citizen and had many friends
in this township and county, being highly esteemed
as a practical and progressive farmer and stock-
raiser.

The first Mrs. Boyle had died at home in this
township in 18G3, being then in the prime of life
about thirty-five years old. Her sister became
the second wife of Mr. Boyle, having before mar-
riage been Ellen McPhillips, and being, like her
sister, a native of Ireland and a Roman Catholic.
She came to this country when a young woman
and is now in a ripe old age, having reached the
limit of three-score years and ten.

Arthur Boyle has one brother living. Edward .1.,
a merchant at Omaha, Neb., whose wife was Maud
White, of that city, and he also has a sister, Mary,
the wife of C. S. Morgan, who lives on a farm
in the same township with her brother. These are
all that are now left of the father's family. Our
subject was reared to manhood in this township,
and was here united in marriage with Mary Tun-
ncll, who was born in Polk Township, this county,
March 25, 1864. Her parents, John and Eliza-
beth (Brown) Tunnell, are now both departed.
The father was for many years a prominent farmer
of this county, and died in Carlinville in 1890,
at the age of sixty. His wife had died four years
previously at the old homestead in Polk Town-
ship, having passed the milestone of her half cen-
tury. They were prominent members of the Pres-
byterian Church and well esteemed both for
character and ability. Their daughter was judic-
iously reared and given a liberal education, being

290

PORTRAIT AMD BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

n graduate of Blackburn University at Carlinville,
and becoming a teacher for a short time before
her marriage. She is a woman of superior quali-
ties and culture, having true refinement and liber-
ality of thought, and is a noble homemaker and
housekeeper. No children have come to brighten
the home. Mr. and Airs. Boyle arc attendants
upon the Presbyterian Church and Mr. Boyle's
political views are expressed in the platform of
the Republican party.

1JSIIA DAWSON. The gentleman whose
name heads this sketch is the owner and res-
<i ident of the farm on section 3, Western
Mound Township, lie is a Virginian by birth and
early education, having been born in Morgan
County, W. Va., July 9, 1827, where he re-
mained until he reached the years of manhood.
His early years were spent on a farm in his native
Slate and he remained under the home roof until he
attained his majority.

On November 2, 1848, Mr. Dawson was united in
marriage to Miss Mary Shade, who was born in
Frederick County, Va., July 28, 1828. Their mar-
riage took place in her native town and their first
home was made in Morgan County, W. Va. where
they lived from March 1849, until March, 1852,
when they removed to Frederick County, Va., and
remained until September, 1854. In the fall of
that year they removed to Macoupin County, and
located in Barr Township living thereuntil the fol-
lowing spring, when they removed to Western
Mound Township, settling on section 3, of which
place they have since been residents.

The farm of three hundred acres which our sub-
ject owns has been well improved and yields a good
income to its owner. Mr. and Mrs. Dawson are the
parents of eight children. They are: Thomas J.
John S., Charles W. Marshall D., Elizabeth C,
Henry C, Edwin C, and Minnie T. Elizabeth is
the wife of T.J. Dawson; the daughter Minnie died
when only two years of age.

Mr. Dawson has been awarded several offices in
the township by virtue of his knowledge, ability

and superior executive power. He has been Sup-
ervisor of Western Mound Township and Justice
of the Peace for ten years, Township Assessor for
two years, Township Collector for one year, High-
way Commissioner for three years, Township Trus-
tee six years and School Director, also Township
Treasurer for six years. Mr. Dawson has ever
taken an active part in local politics, feeling that
the integral parts of this great laud should be as
well governed as is the whole.

Mr. and Mrs. Dawson are members of the Bap-
tist Church. They are the only surviving members
of those who were associated in its organization.
Our subject's parents were Thomas ami Catherine
(Hawvermale), Dawson, the former born in Morgan
County, W. Va., of which county the mother was
also a native. They came to Macoupin County
in the fall of 1867 and there died, having spent
their last days in West Mound Township. They
were the parents of nine children of whom our
subject is the eldest.

'•#•£•#' :~

\j/OIIN H. BROWN, who was for many years
one of the leading farmers of this county,
and is still connected with its agricultural
Isgj// interests as the proprietor of one of its large
and finely improved farms, is now living somewhat
retired from active business in one of the many at-
tractive homes of Carlinville. He is by birth a
native of Tennessee, born near the city of Knox-
ville May 6, 182G. His father, Francis G. Brown,
was born in West Virginia, and was young when
his father died. His mother then removed with
her family to Tennessee, and there he was reared
and married. Ambitious to avail himself of the
advantages offered by the cheap lands and the rich
virgin soil of this State, in 1837 he visited
Macoupin County, and entered a tract of Govern-
ment land in what is now Western Mound Town-
ship, on section 23. He returned to Tennessee
after that transaction, and the following year came
back here with his wife and six children to settle
in this county permanently. The journey was

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

291

made hither on a flat boat on the waters of the
Holston, Tennessee, Ohio and Mississippi rivers to
within fifty miles of Paducah, then by steamer to
Alton, and thence by team to their destination.
They arrived here in April, and Mr. Brown rented
a loir house on section 4, Bird Township, in which
the family lived until November, and in the mean-
Lime he bought a quarter of section 18, of the same
township, fifty acres of which were improved and
two log cabins stood on the place. He paid about
$5 an acre for the land, and while it was in his
possession he placed it under excellent cultivation
and greatly increased its value. He was one of
the pioneer settlers of this section of the State,
which was then but sparsely inhabited, the sur-
rounding country being in a wild condition, with
deer, wolves and other wild animals roaming at
will over the prairies and through the timber.
There were no railways, and the principal market
was at Alton, thirty-three miles distant, and the
nearest at Chesterfield.

In 1851 the father of our subject sold his farm in
Bird Township, and removing to Chesterfield, en-
gaged in the merchandising business in that vil-
lage and also kept a hotel. He was thus occupied
a few years, and then retired. At his death in
October, 1878, at a ripe old age, this county lost
one of its venerated pioueers who had aided in its
upbuilding, and had been in every way a desirable
citizen. His wife, whose maiden name was Mary
Bell, preceded him in death, dying at Chesterfield
in July, 18(54. She was a native of Knox County,
Tenn. Those worthy people were the parents of
nine children, as follows: Elizabeth N., married
George S. Huskey; John H.; Melinda, wife of
Joseph Rafferty; William A.; Matilda C, wife of
Elisha Harbour; Leonidas M.; Mary J., wife of
Jacob Dohn; Laura and Hattie (twins), the former
of whom married Charles Saunders, and the latter
J. J. Leach.

John H. Brown was in his twelfth year when he
came to this county with his parents, and his edu-
cation was gained here in the primitive pioneer
schools of the early years of the settlement of this
region. The schoolhouse was built of logs; the
seats were made of split saplings, that were hewn
smooth on one side, had wooden pins for legs, and

had neither backs or desks. Our subject received a
good training in farm work, for as soon as he was
large enough he had to do his share of it, and he
afforded his father valuable assistance in his agri-
cultural operations, continuing to live with his par-
ents until he was twenty-one when he married and
established a home of his own in a log cabin, six-
teen feet square, with an earth and stick chimney,
located on section 5, Bird Township. He resided
on that place two years, and then sold and bought
one hundred and twenty acres of land on section
17, of the same township. It was a tract of wild
prairie, for which he paid $5 an acre. He built a
small frame house and frame barn, ami during the
two years that he lived there he made many im-
provements. He then sold that place and bought
his father's old homestead of two hundred and
twenty acres, and devoted himself assiduously to
its cultivation. He met with more than ordinary
success in his undertakings, as he was practical,
energetic and sharp-sighted, and at the same time
prudent and cautious in his transactions, and in the
course of time he accumulated a valuable property,
which includes nearly six hundred acres of land.

In 1881 Mr. Brown came to Carlmville and
bought the place where he now resides, a commodi-
ous residence of a modern style of architecture,
pleasantly located on North Broad Street. To the
estimable lady who presides over this beautiful
home, he was united in marriage September 22,
1847, and their household is completed by their
two children, Samuel N. and Daisy.

Mrs. Brown was formerly Miss Martha E.
Huskey, and she was born in Dallas County, near
Selma, Ala., April 13, 1831. Her father, James
Huskey, was a native of East Tennessee, and was a
son of one of its early pioneers, Isaac Huskey.
James Huskey was reared in Tennessee, and went
from there to Alabama soon after marriage, loca-
ting in what is now Dallas County, of which he
was a pioneer. He bought a tract of Government
land as soon as it came into the market, and resided
there until 1834, when, with his wife and ten chil-
dren, he started for Illinois, journeying with ox-
teams and camping and cooking by the wayside at
night. He was six weeks on his way, and after his
arrival in this county he entered Government laud

292

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

on sections 5, 6, 7, and 8, Bird Township, and on
sections 31 and 32, South Palmyra Township, and
on section 5, of the first-named township he built a
dwelling, and was a resident there until his death in
August, 1845, deprived that township of oneof its
foremost pioneers. The maiden name of his wife
was Rhoda Reag: n. She was born in East Tennes-
see, and was a daughter of Richard and Elizabeth
(Trigg) Reagan. She died on the old homestead in
the fall of 1855. She was the mother of eleven
children, namely: Elizabeth, Jane, George, Sarah,
Mary, Matilda, Pinina, Millie, Martha, Ilarkey and
Zerilda.

A man of Mr. Brown's mental calibre, sound and
incorruptible character and general trustworthiness
is necessarily influential in his community, and we
find that he has borne an important part in the
management of public affairs as an incumbent of
various responsible offices. He has represented
Bird Township as a member of the County Board
of Supervisors; he has served as Township Treas-
urer anil as School Director, and he is an active
member of the Macoupin County Agricultural
Board. Politically, he is a Democrat. Religiously,
both he and his wife are members of tiie Baptist
Church, and it may be said of them that they lead
consistent Christian lives, and are universally re-
spected and esteemed.

ylLLlAM C. DRAKE has for many vears
carried on farming and stock-raising in
Scottsville Township, and by his able man-
agement of his affairs has not only improved a
large and valuable farm that is among the finest
in this vicinity, but he has at the same time ma-
terially aided in extending the agricultural interests
of the county and thus promoting its growth and
prosperity.

Mr. Drake is of Kentucky birth, born in Casey
County, August 25, 1825. His father, whose name
was Hiram Drake, was a native of the same county,
a son of one of its pioneer farmers. Carter Drake,
who spent his last years there. The father of our
subject grew to man's estate in Casey County and

there married one of Kentucky's daughters, Nacy
Murphy, a native of that county. In the fall of
1830, with his wife and the three children that had
been born to them in their old home, he came to
Illinois, making the journey with teams and bring-
ing the household goods along. He located in the
wilds of Greene County, in what is now Ml. Era
Township, entering a tract of Government land
three miles south of Athensville, and building a log
house to shelter his family, riving boards to cover
the roof. Two years he lived in that primitive
abode without any floor and then one was made of
puncheon. Boards were split for the door, which
was made to swing inside on wooden hinges, fast-
ened with a wooden pin. At that time deer, wild
turkeys and all binds of game were plentiful, often
furnishing food for the pioneers, who were princi-
pally home-livers, subsisting on the products of
their farm, and their clothing was spun and woven
by the women from flax and wool. The country
was sparsely settled and Alton was the nearest mar-
ket.

Mr. Drake was one of the pioneers of that sec-
tion of the State, and by hard labor he improved a
good farm on which he lived 7nany years. lie
finally sold it, and removing to Greenfield lived
retired there until his mortal career was closed in
the long, dreamless sleep of death. His worthy
wife also departed this life at Greenfield. They
reared a family of eleven children.

William C. Drake, of whom these lines are prin-
cipally written, was five years old when the family
came to Illinois, and he grew up amid the primitive
influences of pioneer life, and well remembers many
incidents of the early days of the settlement of this
State, especially the noted "Winter of the Deep
Snow." His education was gained in the pioneer
schools that were taught in a rude log house. He
made his home with his parents until he was
twenty-one years old, and then came to this county
and bargained for fifty-eight acres of land at $5
an acre, having to go in debt for the place as he
had no money to pay for it. However, his pros-
pects for the future were bright, as he had health,
youth and vigor on his side, seconded by habits of
industry, excellent judgment and sound common
sense. He also had the able assistance of a capable

LtiSHAffY

Of Tr;p

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINO!

^*-

'CLA^tX^t^

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

295

wife, and they went to work with a good will to
to secure their home. As soon as that was paid
for Mr. Drake bought other land at different times,
at one lime owning six hundred acres of valuable
real estate, which he lias developed into one of the
choicest farms in the township in regard to im-
provements and cultivation. He has given a part
of his land to his children and now has three hun-
dred and twenty live acres.

The marriage of our subject with Miss Mary A.
Wheeler took place in 1847. They have five chil-
dren living, named Martha, Sally, M. L., Nancy
Alice and Mary. Martha married Washington
Richmond; Sally is the wife of John Redfern ;
' M. L. married Lou Davis; and Mary married J. 15.
Vaughn. Mrs. Drake is a native of Knox County,
Ky., and a daughter of Joshua and Sally (Venbeh-
ber) Wheeler. She is a woman of rare merit, and
a devoted member of the Baptist Church.

Mr. Drake's course as a farmer lias been marked
by shrewdness and integrity in his dealings, by
forethought and enterpiise, and these trails have
mane him an invaluable aid in the upbuilding of his
township, and gives him high rank among its pio-
neers although he was not one of its earliest settlers.
He is interested in promoting its prosperity and
that of the county, as well as in the welfare of the
country at large, and in regard to political ques-
tions we find him a true Democrat.

■*&£&*&&<*

,OBERT BACON. Of the many English
landowners who have made settlement in
t\\l our State and have carried into execution
^P the theories and practice of farmers in
llieir native land, a prominent place belongs to the
gentleman whose name heads this sketch, and whose
portrait is presented on the opposite page. He is
the owner of a tine farm located on section 30,
South Otter Township, and which has been highly
improved under his careful supervision. He is of
English parentage, his father, Richard Bacon, hav-
ing been born in Norfolk, England, his mother,
Mary K. (Sayers) Bacon, was also a native of Nor-
folk.

Our subject's parents left England and emi-

grated to the United States at an early day. They
first settled in Troy, N. Y., where they remained
for two years. Then in 1837 they came to Macou-
pin County, and after spending one year in Carlin-
villc Township, moved to Chesterfield Township,
where the following year the head of the family
passed away from earth. The mother died in Palmy-
ra Township, this county, in 1863, leaving a family
of eight children. Our subject, the second in order
of birth, first opened his eyes in Norfolk, England,
June 10, 1825. He came to America with his par-
ents when a lad and grew to man's estate in Macou-
pin County, of which he has been a resident since
1837.

The marriage of our subject and Miss Mary Ann
Miller was celebrated November 18, 1S49. Mrs.
Bacon was born in Floyd County, Indiana, Febru-
ary 3, 1824. They settled soon after their marriage
on section 30, South Otter Township, where they
have since lived. Mr. Bacon has erected a hand-
some residence upon his place, which is a favorite
resort of the best people in the township. It is
made charming by the genial manners and hospi-
tality of the owner and his amiable wife. Other
line and subtantial buildings have been erected on
the place. The farm comprises two hundred and
forty acres of land which is under a high state of
cultivation.

Our subject and his wife have welcomed four
children to their household, Emily, Henry R.,
Mary A. and Thomas W. Of these the eldest be-
came the wife of George M. Killam, and passed
from this life in Bird Township, in August, 1878.
A sketch will be found of her husband in another
part of this volume. Henry R. was taken away
from his parents while yet an infant. Mary A. is
the wife of John C. Wiggins; and Thomas W. was
united in marriage with Nancy J. Clark.

The original of our sketch has been honored by
appointment to several otlices in the gift of the
township. He has filled the office of Supervisor
of Otter Township for several years, and has served
as Township Assessor and Collector, has been a
member of the School Board for twenty years, and
four years the title of Justice of the Peace has
been his. He was appointed by Gov. Oglesby,
Public Administator and has filled the office for

296

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

four years. lie has been Treasurer of the Macou-
pin County Agricultural Board for number of
years. He has ever taken an active part in the
local affairs of the township and casts his vote with
the Republican party. He has now retired from
the active proprietorship of farm life, renting his
place to tenants, and only keeping a pleasant super-
vision over the whole. He is one of the leading
men of South Otter Township, and no benefieient
enterprise or movement for the improvement of the
locality in which he dwells is complete without his
name.

ENRY T. ME1NECKE, who is engaged in

business as a dealer in wines and liquors in
Gillespie, is a native of that place and has
there spent the greater part of his life. He
was born on the 29th of January, 1867, and is the
son of Antone W. Meiueeke, a native of Germany,
who spent his boyhood days in the Fatherland but
when a young man crossed the Atlantic, determined
to seek his fortune in the United States. He made
his 6rst location in Alton, 111., where he remained
for some years, and then removed to this county,
settling in Gillespie, where he embarked in busi-
ness as a partner of Henry Bherns. They estab-
lished a general merchandise store which is still
carried on by Mr. Bherns. After a time Mr. Mein-
eeke withdrew from the business and engaged as a
dealer in wines and liquors, carrying on operations
in that line for a number of years when he sold out
his interest here and went to Baltimore, Md., where
he still makes his home. In that city he is also en-
gaged in the same line of trade which he followed
bere. He was united in marriage with Anna Brush,
also a native of Germany, who during the days of her
maidenhood crossed the broad ocean and took up
her residence in Macoupin County, 111. She died
at her home in Gillespie in 1876, in the faith of the
Lutheran Church, of which Mr. Meinecke is also a
member.

Our subject was reared and educated in Gillespie
and in 1890 formed a matrimonial alliance with
Miss Mary Raynor, who was born in Belleville, 111.,
of English parentage, and had come to this county

during her girlhood. In Belleville her parents,
Robert and Sarah (Burton) Raynor, both died,
passing away when in middle life. Mrs. Meinecke
was only a child at that time and by her sister she
was reared to womanhood. After she had attained
to years of maturity her marriage was celebrated
and their union has been blessed by one child, a
son, William.

Mr. and Mrs. Meinecke have many friends
throughout the community where he has long
resided. In politics he is a Democrat, having sup-
ported that party since he attained his majority
and keeps himself well informed concerning the
political issues of the day. He entered upon his
business career as a bartender in the employ of
Freil Schalk of Litchfield, where he remained for
some time. He established business on Main Street
in Gillespie in November, 1890, and has since car-
ried on operations as a retail-dealer of wines and
liquors.

■ — r 1, v-^7ir--V ^ —

FORGE BRALEY. Although in the prime

of manhood the original of this sketch has
settled down to a life of comparative com-
fort and ease on his farm on section 1 1, North Otter
Township, after having experienced more or less
incident and adventure in traveling in the distant
portions of the country and engaging in various
pursuits. His early days were spent under the roof
of his father who was Ellison Braley of Carlinville,
of whom a sketch will be found in another part of
this volume.

Our subject was one of the family of seven chil-
dren of whom he was the second in order of birth.
His birthplace was Collinsville, Madison County,
this State, and he was born December 19, 1842.
When he reached manhood he left the parental roof
and went to Marysville, Mo., where he was engaged
in mercantile business for a period of about four
years, at the end of which time he sold out return-
ing to Collinsville.

On Mr. Braley's return to his native place he en-
gaged in farming in Collinsville Township, pursu-
ing this calling for seven years, when he gave up
his place and went to Shaw's Point, remaining there

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

297

two years and then settled in North Otter Town-
ship where he has been a resident since the winter
of 1880. Farming has been his chief business
through life, although he has engaged in various
other things. Prior to the beginning of this year he
acted as Deputy Postmaster under II. M. Kimball.
In 18G4, during the last call for volunteers in the
late war, our subject enlisted in the one hundred
d:i\s' campaign and served the full period. He
was a member of Company F, One Hundred and
Thirty-third Illinois Regiment. On his discharge
from the army he was employed as dry -goods clerk
in a store in Collinsville. This was before he was of
age. His first business after he became of age was
in a woolen mill with Clement & Son, the firm name
being Clement, Braley & Co. He was with this
firm for one year, when he sold out and engaged
in the grocery business. This also he engaged in
but a short time with Edward McMillen, under the
firm name of Braley & McMillen.

October '27, 18(59, Mr. Braley was married to Miss
Atnv A. Holliday, who was born in Greene County,
111., March 13, 1846. She is a daughter of Arthur
D. and Amanda J. Holliday. Mr. and Mrs. Braley
are the parents of five children — Edgar W., Truman
H., Florence L., Arthur E. and Howard. Our sub-
ject is a Republican in his political preferences,
giving his undivided allegiance to that party. He
is a member of the Masonic fraternity.

IOHN BENNETT, who is engaged in general
farming and stock-raising on section 17,
Brighton Township, where he owns one
hundred and seventy-seven acres of highly
improved land, has made his home upon that farm
since 1853. He is therefore entitled to be classed
among the honored early settlers of the commun-
ity. The greater part of his land has been placed
under cultivation by himself and all of the build-
ings and improvements seen thereon stand as monu-
ments to his thrift and enterprise.

As Mr. Bennett is well and favorably known we
feel assured that his sketch will prove of interest

to many of our readers. He was born in Rodne-
shire, Wales, in 1821, and is a son of Benjamin
and Mary (Lewis) Bennett, both of whom were
natives of that country and there spent their entire
lives, the father dying at the age of seventy-seven
years, the mother in the seventy-first year of her
age. Both were members of the Baptist Church
and they have four sons and four daughters living
in Wales who are married and have families.

Our subject is the only one who ever came to
America. He grew to manhood in the usual man-
ner of farmer lads and in 1844, having bade good-
by to home and friends, he sailed from Liverpool
on board the " Frank Field, " which crossed the
Atluitic, reaching New Orleans after seven weeks.
Another week was consumed in making the trip up
the Mississippi River to Alton, from whence he
came to Brighton, Macoupin County, anil began life
in the new world as a farm laborer. His cash cap-
ital on his arrival consisted of only five dollars, a
small sum with which to enter upon a business
career. He entered the employ of one of the
pioneers of the county, A. A. Hilyard who paid him
in compensation for his services, $6 per month.
Nine years he thus labored and by industry and
economy at length acquired the capital with which
in 1853, he purchased his present farm, then all
wild land.

In Brighton Township, Mr. Bennett led to the
marriage altar Miss Martha Bradley, who was born
in England, and when a young maiden came with
her parents to the United States, the family settling
in Macoupin County, III., where Mr. and Mrs.
Bradley spent the remainder of their lives. Mrs.
Bennett proved a true helpmate to her husband,
and to her able assistance was due in no small de-
gree the success which attended her husband's
efforts. She died on the 8th of April, 1881, at the
age of forty-five years. By her marriage have been
born the following children, two of whom are now
deceased — Frank and Mark. The members of the
family still living are Mary A., wife of William
Yarham, a farmer of Franklin County, Kan.;
Liza, wife of Tim Chawing, a resident fanner of
AVilbarger County, Tex.; John, who married Flora
Mason and is engaged in agricultural pursuits in
Franklin County, Kan.; Emma, wife of Richard

298

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

Ketcliell, who resides on the Bennett homestead;
Sarah, wife of Albert Keas who operates a creamery
in Brighton; Angie, May, Edward and Itosie at
home.

Mr. Bennett is a member of the Baptist Church,
to which his wife also belongs and in politics he is
a Republican, keeping himself well informed ou the
questions of the day. both political and otherwise.
He is true to every duty of citizenship and is re-
garded as one of the leading and enterprising
farmers of this community, where he has so long
made his home.

, o**4&y^®)--<*o-

^p^EORGE F. BOOSINGER, who resides on
|| section 17, is one of the early settlers of

VJS) Cahokia Township, having made his home
there since his arrival in the county in 1840. His
entire life has been spent as a farmer p.nd upon the
same section where he still makes his home. He
now has a fine farm of two hundred and seven
acres, under a high state of cultivation, and sup-
plied with good buildings, all of which were
erected by himself and stand as monuments to his
thrift and industry. The place is also well stocked.
His home is a commodious and tasty farm resi-
dence, supplied with all the comforts and many of
the luxuries of life. By his fellow-townsmen Mr.
Boosinger is accounted one of the thrifty and en-
terprising stock-raisers of this community. He
has lived to see all the country round about him
improved from the raw prairie to its present ad-
vanced position, having come to this county during
his boyhood, in company with bis parents, George
and M. Antoinette (Workinger) Boosinger.

The Boosinger family came from Virginia, and
in the early days of Ohio's history settled in the
Buckeye State, where the grandfather of our sub-
ject was accidentally shot while one day out hunt-
ing. He had a deerskin hung over his shoulders,
and by another hunter was shot, his death occur-
ring from the effects of that wound about a month
later. He was then well advanced in years, having
attained to the age of seventy. His wife survived
him some time, and died when well advanced iu

life. George Boosinger had accompanied his
parents to Ohio when a child, and in Portage
County was reared to manhood. He enlisted as a
private for the War of 1812, and served as a team-
ster during that struggle. On his return he mar-
ried an Ohio lady, who died some years later,
leaving five children. He was a second time mar-
ried to Antoinette Workinger, a lady of German
birth, who with her parents had crossed the Atlan-
tic and located in Portage County, where her
father and mother died. They began their domes-
tic life upon a farm in that county, where seven of
their children were born. With their family they
left Ohio in 1836. joining the Mormon colony en
route for the West, and traveling overland, at
length made a settlement in Kay County, Mo.,
near the followers of Joseph Smith, to whose creed
Mr. Boosinger subscribed. In 1839 they came to
Illinois, and after spending a year on Smooth
Prairie, in Madison County, took up their resi-
dence in Cahokia Township, where the father pur-
chased an unbroken tract of land on section 17.
The farm which he there developed he made his
home until his death in 1862, at the age of seventy-
nine years. He had spent his life as a hard-work-
ing man, and adhered to the faith which he had pro-
fessed in Portage County. His wife preceded him
to the final rest, dying at the age of sixty -six. In
early life she joined the Lutheran Church, but
afterward became a Methodist, and subsequently
united with the Christian Church, dying in that
faith.

Our subject was born in Portage County. Ohio,
January 28. 1825, and was the second of the family
of eight children. He was therefore a lad of only
fifteen summers when he came with his family
to this county. Under the parental roof he
was reared to manhood, and gave his father the
benefit of his labors until he had attained to ma-
ture years, when he was united in marriage with
Miss Maria Edwards, who was born August 28,
1832, and grew to womanhood in Sandusky, Ohio.
Her parents were Milton W. and Esther (Powers)
Edwards. They came to this county in an early
day, settling in Gillespie Township, where the
mother died in the prime of life. She was a con-
sistent member of the Christian Church, and a

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

299

lady of many excellencies of character. After
tor death, Mr. Edwards went South, and made his
home with his son in St. Joseph, La., where he died
six months later. He studied medicine at Elyria,
Ohio, and was also a carpenter, devoting his ener-
gies to both lines of business. He was a Democrat
in politics, and lived an upright life, which won
him many friends.

Mr. and Mrs. Boosinger began their domestic life
upon the farm which is still their home, and which
he developed from its primitive condition, making
the «>nce wild land to bloom and blossom as the
rose. Their fine residence and comfortable sur-
roundings all indicate the prosperity, which has
crowned their efforts. Their home has been blessed
by the presence of two children, and the}' also lost
two in infancy. Carrie is now the wife of Marcus
\V. Clark, who owns and operates a farm in Gilles-
pie Township, and unto them have been born
three children — Marcb, Harvey and Frank. Frank
S. is a successful druggist and enterprising business
man of Gillespie. He married Miss Lula Brown,
and they have one child, Marcus. Mr. and Mrs.
Boosinger are people of worth, ranking high in the
esteem of their many acquaintances. He is a Re-
publican in politics, has served for eight years as
Road Commissioner, and for the long period of
thirty-five years has been a school officer, which
fact shows that he has the educational interests of
the community at heart. Our subject is President
of the Gillespie Brass Band.

j^. ERBERT A. .TONES, a substantial and en-
| terprising business man of Staunton, now
engaged in general merchandising in the
Quade department of the Union Block, be-
gan business here in 1881, when, as a member of the
firm of Gaby & .lones, he opened a general store.
This partnership continued for three years and
then a change occurred, the firm becoming Jones,
Newman & Co., under which style operations were
continued for a year, when Mr. Jones became sole
proprietor. He now has a fine store, with en-
trances on two of the principal streets of Staunton.

The Main Street entrance ushers one into a room
65x28 feet and from this is another department,
leading into a second room 28x24 feet. Mr. Joins
carries a full line of general merchandise and by his
earnest desire to please his customers, his genial
manner and fair dealing, he has worked up an ex-
cellent trade and the liberal patronage which he has
secured nets him a good income.

On the lGth of October. 1840, in Henry County.
Iowa, Mr. Jones was born unto Herbert and Eliza-
beth (Farris) Jones. His father, a native of Wales,
emigrated to this country and located in New
Hampshire, where he met and married Miss Farris,
a native of the Granite State. On coming West in
an early day, they settled on a farm in Henry
County. Iowa, where all of their children were
born, and there the parents died in middle life.

The boyhood days of our subject were spent un-
der the parental roof and when a young man he
came to Illinois. In 1855 he secured a position in
a dry-goods bouse in St. Louis, Mo., where he re-
mained until 1861, when he came to Illinois. Two
years later he obtained a clerkship in the Levi dry-
goods store and clothing house, of Litchfield, where
he resided for twenty years, during all that time
being in the employ of the one firm. It was dur-
ing his residence in Litchfield that he met and mar-
ried Miss Maltie Brooks, a native of Illinois, born
near Nauvoo, Hancock County, in September,
185G. When a child she removed with her par-
ents to Duquoin County, where her father died in
the prime of life. Mrs. Brooks, her mother, after-
ward removed to Litchfield, and her death occurred
in Edwardsville, at the age of seventy years. The
marriage of our subject and his wife was celebrated
in 18G7, and unto them has been born a daughter,
Maude, an accomplished young lady, who has a
host of friends in Staunton.

Mr. Jones has led a busy and useful life, yet
aside from his business interests he has found time
to devote to public affairs. He is a progressive
and public-spirited citizen, who manifests a deep
interest in all that pertains to the welfare of the
county and its advancement. In his social rela-
tions he is a Mason, belonging to Staunton Lodge,
No. 177, A. F. & A. M., of which he is Treasurer;
he also holds membership with Camp No. 572, M.

300

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

W. A. and of the Knights and Ladies of Honor.
In business and social circles he is alike favorably
known and though his residence in .Staunton cov-
ers a period of only ten years, he takes rank among
her leading citizens.

15. ELDRED,a representative of one of the
early pioneer families of Illinois, is an old
and highly respected citizen of this county,
who is now living in retirement at Carlinville, hav-
ing acquired a goodly amount of property during
his active business life as a farmer from which he
derives an ample income He was born at Win-
field, Herkimer County, N. Y., October 31, 1819.
His father, who was named Ward Eldred, was born
in Connecticut in 1795, and was a son of Jehose-
phal Eldred, who was also a native of that New
State, and was a descendant of one of three broth-
ers who came to America from Wales in Colonial
times.

The grandfather of our subject was reared on a
farm, and was married in his native State to Polly
Landon. After marriage he removed to Heiki
mer County, N. Y., and was a pioneer of that
section of the country, buying a tract of wood
land and clearing a farm. There were no railroads
or canals in the Empire State in those days, and
Albany was the nearest market and depot for sup-
plies. In 1820 he sold his possessions there, anil
with his wife and seven children, two of whom had
families, he again started Westward in search of a
new location in the young State of Illinois. The
little party set out on their long and momentous
journey in the month of March, driving to (Mean
Point, where they embarked, teams and all on flat-
boats and floated down on the Alleghany and Ohio
Rivers to the Mississippi, to Shawneetown, having
an Indian pilot to guide them on their way, and
from the latter place drove with their teams to Mad-
ison County. The grandfather of our subject rented
improved land and after raising a crop for win-
ter use, removed with his family to Greene County.
He and his sons, William and Ward, bought to-
gether a squatter's claim to a tract of Government

land, a part of which is now included in the town
of Carrollton. He erected a log house, and at once
commenced to evolve a farm from the wilderness;
that was prior to the time that Carrollton was laid
out, and Greene, Jersey, Macoupin and a part of
Scott County were included in Greene County, St.
Louis being the nearest market. Deer, turkeys and
other kind of game were abundant, and the In-
dians still lived on the Illinois River. In 1826
Grandfather Eldred went to the mines at Galena,
and in that vicinity spent the remainder of his
life, his death occurring at a venerable age in 1847.
His wife died before he did, her life terminating
Greene County in 1821.

Ward Eldred was but a child when his parents
went to New York State, and there he grew to a
vigorous manhood, and in due time he was married.
In 1818 he visited Illinois on a prospecting tour,
and after a short stay in Madison County, returned
as he came, on foot. In 1820 he came back here
with his father and other members of the family
and settled in Greene County, buying a claim on
which he located. When the land came into mar-
ket he attended the sale at Edwardsville, and
bought four hundred acres for himself, besides
quite a tract for his father and another for his
brother. It was prairie and timber land, and a
cabin stood on his purchase, into which the family
moved in December, 1820. After the death of his
wife in 1823 Mr. Eldred broke up housekeeping
and made his home with his brother William until
1828, when he married a second time, and built a
log house on his farm for the accommodation of
his bride. He lived on that place some years and
then sold and bought Illinois River bottom lands
in the same county. There he closed his e3 r es in
that dreamless sleep that knows no waking, in
June, 1851. The maiden name of the mother of our
subject was Emma Brace, and she was of Connect-
icut birth. Her father Asahel Brace, was also a
native of New England, and he was a son
of Abel Brace. The former went to New York to
locate in the early days of the settlement of that
State, and became a resident of Winfield, where he
drew out the remnant of his days to a good old
age. His wife bore the maiden name of Katie
Curtis.

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

301

Our subject was the only son of his mother, anil
he was bereft by death of her tender care when
he was scarcely four years old. His paternal grand-
parents then took him in charge until his father's
second marriage. His education was obtained in
the pioneer schools of the early years of the settle ■
inent of this State, which were held in log houses,
furnished with slab benches that were supported by
wooden pegs, and a board on either side of the '
school-room served as a common writing desk for
the pupils. These primitive buildings were lighted
by a part of two logs being cut out and a row of
pieces of glass eight by ten inches in size being in-
serted in the hole thus made in the wall. The
schools were taught on the subscription plan, and
our subject;, eager for a practical knowledge of
books, attended whenever opportunity offered.

When not in school our subject assisted in the
labors of the farm, and continued to reside with
his parents until he established domestic relations
of his own by his marriage in March, 1842, to
Miss Emeline Wooley, a native of Greene County,
111., and a daughter of David and Lauretta
(Hodge) Wooley, who were residents of New York
S-,ate prior to their removal to Illinois when they
became pioneers of Greene Count}-. Mr. Eldred's
first wife died in 1857, leaving three children, Da-
mon II.. William O. and George. His second mar-
riage was in 1858 to Miss Elizabeth Ritchie, a
native of New York City, and a daughter of John
and Margaret (Wilson) Ritchie. Her death oc-
curred May 24, 1873. Eive children are living of
that marriage — Charles W., Samuel W., Horace ().,
Margaret D. and John F. Our subject was a third
time married September 3, 1875, Miss Grace Trible
becoming his wife. She is a native of Devonshire,
England, and a daughter of John and Mary (Oli-
ver) Trible. Her parents were also natives of
Devonshire, and came from their old English home
to this country in 1858. The}' settled nearGirard,
in this county, where Mr. Trible bought land anil
was prosperously engaged in farming until his
death in January, 1890. His widow now makes
her home with her children.

When Mr. Eldred married and settled down in
life his father gave him eighty acres of land nine
miles west of Carrollton. In March, 1857, he sold

that place, and coining to this county, bought four
hundred and eighty acres of land in Polk Town-
ship, upon which he made his home until March,
1890, when he purchased his present commodious
and conveniently arranged residence in Carlinville.
During his active business life he displayed great
enterprise, tact and ability in the management of
his affairs that brought him riches, and he knows
how to enjoy his wealth, and he has a thorough
appreciation of good things of life. His many
years' residence in this county have gained him a
large acquaintance, among whom he has many
warm friends, attracted to him by his genial, jovial
disposition, and by his generous and kindly nature.
In his earl}- life he was a Whig, and his first Presi-
dential vote was cast for W. H. Harrison. Since
18G0 he has been a devoted adherent of the Repub-
lican party. He has served as Assessor of Polk
Township, and is a member and Director of the
Macoupin County Agricultural Society, always do-
ing all in his power to promote the be3t interests
of this section.

ILLIAM JONES, Esq., a well-known and

3,1 flfclLLIAM,

\Jf honored
^7\v gaged in

pioneer of this county, now en-
general farming on section Hi,
Brighton Township, claims Wales as the land of
his nativity. He was born in Radnorshire, on the
14th of May, 1 8 1 G, of the union of Thomas and
Ellen (Vail) Jones. His father is of Welsh de-
scent, his mother of French lineage. They were
married and began their domestic life in the
province where our subject was born and after
some years removed into an adjoining county in
England. During the war with France which
ended in the defeat of Napoleon, Thomas Jones
made and lost a fortune. In 1831, after the birth
of all their children, he and his wife left England,
sailing from Liverpool to the United States upon
the ship "Ajax," commanded by Capt. Hum. After
five weeks and three days spent upon the water
they landed in New York City, whence they
made their way to Dutchess County, N. Y., where
they resided until the spring of 1833, when they

302

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

made their way by the New Orleans and Alton
route to Illinois. The combined capital of the
family at that time was only $10, five of which was
paid for conveying them to Brighton. The other
five was used to make a partial payment upon a
milch cow, the remainder to paid for by the labor
of one of the boys. After a time with the help of
one of his sons, Thomas .Jones purchased one hun-
dred and twenty acres of Government land which
he cleared and developed, making it a good farm.
The mother died at their home in the early days
when about sixty years of age. The father died
at the home of his son, our subject, about nineteen
years later. Both he and his wife were members of
the Baptist Church. They had a large family but
with the exception of William and his brother
Thomas, who is now living in Beardstown, III., all
are now deceased.

Our subject has been a resident of Illinois since
he was seventeen years of age with the exception
of a very short period. He worked for many
years as a farm hand and throughout his life has
engaged in agricultural pursuits with the exception
of the two years he spent on the Pacific Slope,
immediately after the discovery of gold in Cali-
fornia, be set out with H. C. Clark and William
Loveland with fourteen ox-teams and as many-
wagons. On the 6th of May the party crossed the
Missiouri River at St. Joseph, and started on the
wearisome march across the plains, arriving on the
1st of August at the Nevada mines on Greenhorn
River. They made the first trail over that country.
For a time Mr. Jones engaged in mining and then
made a trip to San Francisco and Sacramento for
the mail for the others of the camp. Subsequently
he joined parties in a merchandising venture which
was very successful and later he struck some very
good surface mining. After spending two years
in California, he returned home by the way of the
Isthmus of Panama and New Orleans and with his
gold dust purchased his present homestead. His
western experience was interesting in many par-
ticulars yet he also suffered many hardships, being
afflicted with the scurvy which prevailed to a great
extent among the miners.

In this county, Mr. Jones was united in marriage
with Miss Eveline Dandridge, who was born in

Alabama, in 1813, and died at her home in Brighton
Township in 1864, leaving one son, Thomas A.,
who married Clara Clark and is now a farmer of
this community. The mother was a member of
the Baptist Church and a most estimable lady. For
a second wife Mr. Jones choose Miss Margaret
Forse, who was born and reared in Dresden, Ohio,
and afterward came to Illinois, where she married
Mr. Jones. In religious belief she was a Presby-
terian and died in the faith of that church in 1881.
Three children were born of their marriage, Susan
M., Vail F. and Hugh W., who are still at home
with their father.

Mr. Jones is a prominent Mason, belonging to
the Blue Lodge of Brighton, and in politics is a
Democrat. He has served as Justice of the Peace
and School Trustee for thirty-nine years and is re-
garded as one of the leading citizens of the com-
munity. His attention however has been devoted
mostly to his farming interests and he is now the
owner of twelve hundred acres of highly-improved
land which yields to him a golden tribute for the
care and cultivation he bestows upon it.

-«=

"JYJ AMES ETTER is one of the reputable farm-
ers of South Palmyra Township, owning
and operating an estate pleasantly located
on section 9. It consists of ninety acres of
fertile land which was given to our subject by his
father, and which is well cultivated, supplied with
substantial buildings and made the source of a good
income. Mr. Etter was reared to farm life and is
well acquainted with all the details of his work and
knows what means should be taken to beautify as
well as to make productive. He was born in the
township in which he now lives, Jul}' 21, 1848,
and in his early years attended the district school.
His parents are Henry and Elizabeth (Davidson)
Etter, under whose roof he remained until he was
twenty-five years of age.

October 30, 1873, Mr. Etter was united in mar-
riage with Miss Julia F. Richie, who was born in
South Palmyra Township in 1856. Her father,
Eli W. Richie, is a reputable farmer. After their

UBRART
OF THE

uwvwwty cr iliinc

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

305

marriage Mr. and Mrs. Etter settled where they are
now living. Their pleasant home is brightened by
the presence of four children, named respectively,
Eli Scott; Settla A., died when seven years old;
Elfa J., Henry Ross and Ola J.

Mr. Etter has served as Constable, Road Com-
missioner, Township Clerk and Collector. He was
elected to the first ollice soon after attaining his
majority, and filled each of the other positions in
turn in a capable manner. He keeps himself well
informed regarding the news of the day and the
political issues and converses intelligently. He
always casts his ballot with the Democrats. As a
citizen he is reliable and steady going, in social
life he is agreeable, and in his own home he is
thoughtful and considerate.

^*fl

S*--.

vfps LLISON BRALEV. The gentleman whose
|L portrait is presented on the opposite page is
I one of the most extensive farmers and land-

owners in the county, and is numbered among the
Oldest citizens now residing at Carlinville. He is
widely known and honored for his integiit}' of
character and good citizenship. He comes of good
old New England stock and is himself a native of
that section of the country, Hopkinton, Middlesex
County, Mass., his place of birth and .July 26,
1810, the date thereof.

His father, whose given name was Ezekiel, was
born in Rhode Island in 1782 and was a son of
Roger Braley, who was a native of Massachusetts
and the descendant of an old Huguenot family
that came to America in 1700 to escape religious
persecution in their native land, and settled in
Massachusetts buying large tracts of land from
the Indians, the deed of the same reading, "in con-
sideration of two smokes of the pipe and one drink
of eider." A part of the land was afterward the
home of Daniel Webster. The first ancestor to
come to this country spelled his name Brales. He
reared four sons, who were named Ezekiel, Rauel,
John and Roger.

The grandfather of our subject left his early
home in the old Pay State and made a new one for

himself in Rhode Island, where he lived until
death closed his mortal career. He married Ruth
Cole, who after his death became the wife of a man
by the name of Posworth, spending her last years
in Massachusetts. The father of our subject lived
in his native State until he attained manhood and
early learned the trade of a shoemaker. When a
young man he went to Massachusetts and was em-
ployed on a farm by Capt. Rockwood in that part
of the town of Upton now included in Hopkinton.
He subsequently bought a small tract of land live
miles south of that town, and resided thereon some
years, farming in summer and making shoes in
the winter. In 182G he removed to Holliston,
where he lived until 1840. His next move was to
Westboro, where his earthly pilgrimage was brought
to an end and he was gathered to his fathers at a
ripe old age.

He and his good wife reared a family of nine
children, of whom the following is noted: Elliott,
who came to Illinois in 1857, died at Carlinville
in his eighty-third year; Ellison is the subject of
this sketch; Philander came to this State in 183G,
and after living in Madison County fifteen years,
has ever since been a resident of Carlinville;
Louisa married Charles Morgan and resides at
Carlinville; Harriet married Nelson Cole and lives
at Piasa this county; Benjamin is a resident of
of Westboro, Mass.; George R. lives near Dexter,
Mo.; Gibbs, the eldest son of the fa»...ly. died in
1881, at the age of seventy -five ; Esther, the
youngest daughter, died in 1886 at the age of
fifty-seven years.

The maiden name of the mother of our subject
was Lois Walker and she was born in 1783 in
Hopkinton, Mass. Her father, Timothy Walker,
was also a native of Massachusetts and was a son
of Israel ami Abigail Walker. He was a soldier
in both the Revolution and the War of 1812.
His entire life was passed in his native State, where
he carried on the occupation of a farmer and
hunter. He married Lois Gibbs, a native of Hop-
kinton and a daughter of Isaac and Lois Gibbs.
The mother of our subject departed this life in
her native town.

Ellison Braley left the parental home at the
age of twelve years and went to live wii.h Charles

306

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

Valentine in llopkinton. with whom lie 'remained
until he was fifteen years old. He then accom-
panied Mr. Valentine to Boston, where the latter
formed a partnership with Mr. Bridges to carry on
the business of wholesale provision merchants.
Our subject continued in their employ in the Boyl-
ston Market six years and then in 1832 went to
New York in the interests of Mr. Bridges, and
assisted him there nntil 1838. In the fall of that
year he started Westward with another young
man. driving to Western Pennsylvania with a
horse and wagon, then traveling by stage by the
way of Pittsburg and Wheeling to Cincinnati;
there they embarked on a steamboat and proceeded
to Madison, Ind., where Mr. Braley worked for a
time for a New York firm. The following spring
he made his way to Illinois, traveling on the Ohio
and Mississippi rivers to St. Louis and from that
city by a two-horse wagon to Carlinville, where
he arrived the 1st of April. He rented land, on
which he raised a crop of corn and in the fall
formed a partnership with a tanner. Five years
later he sold out his interest in the tannery and
bought a country store, which he managed a year
and a half, and later bought a grist mill at Collins
Mill. The next venture was to buy a steam flour
mill at East St. Louis, which he operated a few
months and then sold advantageously.

Soon after that Mr. liraley bought a steam saw-
mill on Macoupin Creek, a mile and a half from
Carlinville, his brother being interested with him
in the purchase. They refitted the mill, putting
in new machinery and repairing the boilers, and
worked the concern very profitably until it was
burned a year later. The brothers then came to
Carlinville and erected a steam saw mill and were
engaged in the manufacture of lumber until 1804.
when they sold their mill. During that time the
Chicago & Alton Railroad was in process of con-
struction and they had the contract to furnish the
joint ties for the road, which was completed from
Alton to Carlinville in July, 1852. That fall they
took the contract to furnish ties and lumber to be
used in the construction of the road between
Springfield and Bloomington. After disposing of
the mill our subject turned his attention to farm-
ing; and became one of the most extensive and

successful farmers in this region. He now owns
eight hundred and sixty acres of choice land, all
lying in this county and conveniently divided into
different farms, which are under good tillage and
amply supplied with a good class of farm build-
ings.

Mr. Braley was married in the city of New York
November 1, 1840, to Miss Catherine Coon, a na-
tive of Rensselaer County, N. Y., and to her devo-
tion to his interests is undoubtedly attributable a
good share of his prosperity. They have six chil-
dren: George, a resident of Virden; Sarah, living
in California; Eleanora, the widow of General
Rowett, of whom see biography on another page
of this volume; Catherine, Paul and Cyrus F., the
latter three living with their parents.

Through a long and busy life that has passed
the eightieth milestone on the journey to immor-
tality, our subject has shown himself to possess in
an eminent degree those dominant characteristics
of the genuine sons of New England that have
made theaa such potent factors in the upbuilding
of any community wherever their lot may be cast.
His capability and keen insight into the best meth-
ods of managing his financial interests, together
with his plain and straightforward dealings, have
placed him among the moneyed men of the county.
He and his wife stand high in social and religions
circles and are among the most esteemed members
of the Presbyterian Church. Formerly a Whig.
Mr. Braley has been a tried and true Hepubliean
since the formation of the part} - .

JAMES F. MESSICK. The varied wants of
the present generation and the many inven-
tions that have been made during the cent-
ury give rise to numerous occupations and
lines of trade. It is well that it is so, as the tastes
and peculiar abilities of men are thus called in
play and legitimately exercised for their worldly
prosperity. Carlinville is the headquarters of Mr.
Messick, who has for some time been engaged in
the sale of musical instruments in this and adjoin-
ing counties. By fair dealing he has secured a

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RFX'ORD.

307

large trade and his reward has been a good main-
tenance and the ability to supply his family with
every comfort and give his daughter excellent ad-
vantages.

Mr. Messick is a native of this county, having
been born on a farm in Brushy Mound Township.,
February 24, 1844. His father, Joseph W. Mes-
sick, who was born in Christian Count}-, Ky., was
reared and married in his native State, and con-
tinued to reside there until 1840, when he removed
to this State with teams. Reaching Cabokia Town-
ship, this county, he made his home there two
years, then went to Gillespie Township, and in
February, 1844, settled in Brushy Mound Town-
ship. He bought a tract of wild prairie land and
built upon it the log-house in which his son James
was born. He improved the land and lived upon
it until 1868, then sold and for a few years resided
in Nilwood Township, after which he went lo
Kansas. For a time he made his home in Bourbon
County, but finally established himself in Crawford
County, where he is still living. His father, Abra-
ham Messick, is believed to have been born in
Pennsylvania and was an early settler in Christian
County, Ky.

The wife of Joseph Messick and mother of our
subject was Sarah Kittinger, a native of the Blue
Grass State, who died in 1860. She had six child-
ren, named respectively, Daniel W., James F.,
Joseph. B., Martin A., Sarah and Thomas. Daniel
was killed at Pittsburg Landing, being a member
of the Thirty-second Illinois Infantry; Joseph
served in the One Hundred and Forty-fourth Illin-
ois Infantry.

The gentleman whose name introduces these
paragraphs was educated in his native township
ind in the intervals of study assisted in carrying
on the farm, lie obtained a practical education
ind at the early age of sixteen years began teach-
ing and until 1864 gave a part of each year to ped-
agogical work. He then enlisted, enrolling himself
in Company G.One Hundred and Thirty. third Illin-
iia Infantry, in the month of May, but a short time
ifter he had passed his twentieth birthday. His
inrollment was for one hundred days and he served
inlil September, when he was honorably dis-
'barged, the term of service having expired. He

resumed his former occupations of teaching and
farming, and spent each winter in the school-room
until 1873. He then entered upon his present
business, in which he has been more than ordinarily
successful.

The family of Mr. Messick consists of a wife and
daughter. His wife was known in her maidenhood
as Miss Susan R. Kelly, and changed her name to
that she now bears, in 1868. She is a capable,
well-read woman, with a Christian character, and
is an excellent neighbor and true friend. The
daughter, Nellie 11., has been the object of tender
and judicious care and is well calculated to adorn
any circle in which she may be placed. Husband,
wife and daughter belong to the Methodist Episco-
pal Church and Mr. Messick is Trustee and Stew-
ard. After giving due thought to the political
situation he decided in favor of Republican princi-
ples and he has seen no reason to abandon the
party.

< HHK'r

GEORGE II. GIBSON, M. D., is a popular
and well-known physician at Shipinan. He
\>^r|l is a native of this State, born at Brighton
September 15, 1853. His father, James W. Gilson,
was a Pennsylvanian by birth, and was a son of
William Gilson, who was also a native of the Key-
stone State, of which he was a life-long resident.
He was of Scotch ancestry. His occupation was
that of a farmer.

The father of our subject passed his early life
amid the scenes of his birth, but when he attained
manhood he set out in the world to seek fortune's
favors in the Great West, as this part of the coun-
try was then called. He came to this State in
1840, and buying a partly improved farm near
Brighton, he devoted himself to agriculture for
some years. He then took up his residence at
Brighton, where he turned his attention to the mer-
cantile business, and to buying and shipping grain.
His death August 30, 1860, removed from that
town one of its most enterprising citizens, who had
been a valuable help in its upbuilding. In earl}'
manhood he had married at Jefferson, Ind.. Marian
Merriwether, a native of Todd County, K}-. She

308

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

departed this life August 31, 1873. She was the
mother of seven children.

Our subject laid the foundation of a liberal edu-
cation in the Brighton public schools, and was
subsequently graduated from Blackburn University
in the class of 1872. Thus well prepared, he en-
tered upon his medical studies at the St. Louis
Medical College, from which he was graduated in
the class of March, 1876. Before he entered upon
his professional career, he made a tour of the East-
ern States, visiting the Centennial Exposition at,
Philadelphia, and other points of interest, broaden-
ing Ids mind by contact with the outside world
and deepening his knowledge by intelligent obser-
vation.

In the fall of the year he opened an office at
Shipmau, and has been in continuous practice here
since, establishing himself in the confidence of the
people by his successful mode of treatment of the
various ailments and diseases that come under his
care, and obtaining a warm place in their hearts by
his manifest interest in the welfare of his patients,
by his never failing geniality, and by courteous
consideration of others. Our subject is prominent
in medical and social circles as a member and Vice-
President of the Macoupin County Society for
Medical Improvement; of the American Medical
Association; of the Illinois State Medical Society ;
and of Shipman Lodge, No. 212, A. F. & A. M.

Doctor Gilson was united in marriage to Miss
M. A. Preston, in 1880. Their wedded life was
terminated by her death October 18, 1888.

"tf^rtg^e*!

W. ZIMMERMANN, one of the substantial
farmers and stock-raisers of Bunker Hill
Township, residing on section 33, has there
made his home since before the war. He
was born in the Kingdom of Hanover, Ger-
many, November 8, 1822, not far from the North
Sea, and his parents, William and Minnie (Debuhr)
Zimmerman, were also born in the same locality,
where they spent their entire lives. The father
of our subject was a farmer and both he and
his wife were members of the German Lutheran

Church. Unto them were born seven children,
after which the mother died and Mr. Zimmerman
was again married, while of that union were born
a son and daughter. Only four members of the
family have made homes in America — John, Rich-
ard and F. W., all of whom are resident farmers of
this county; and a half-brother Henry, who lives
in Bethalto, III.

The subject of this sketch spent the days
his boyhood and youth in his native land and
when twenty-five years of age, having determined
try his fortune in the New World, took passage
Bremen, on the sailing-vessel "Post," which
length reached the harbor of New Orleans, aftei
a long and tedious voyage of ten weeks, in whic
they encountered two hard storms. This vvas
the fall of 1848 and in the following spring
Zimmermann made his way up the Mississippi Rive
to Alton and located in Madison County. Ther
he married Miss Margaretla Post, who was also
native of Hanover and came to the United State
in the same vessel in which her future husbanc
sailed. Her parents continued to reside in Ger
many until death.

For the long period of forty yeais Mr. and Mrs
Zimmermann have traveled life's journey together
sharing with each other its prosperity and adver
sity, its joys and its sorrows. Five children havil
come to bless their union, but four of them are nov
deceased — William, who died at the age of eigh
years; Willie, who died when nine months old
Anna, whose death occurred at the age of twenty
four; and Frank, who died at the age of thirty
four; he married Anna Lutz, who is now b'ving v
Bunker Hill; Herman F. wedded Belle Duffy am
owns and operates a good farm in Bunker Hil
Township.

Mr. Zimmermann left Illinois in 1850, attracted
by the discovery of gold in California, and in com
pan3 - with Henry Keizer and John Heind started fc
the Pacific Slope with five mules and one wagon
They left in the month of April, crossed the Mis
souii River at St. Joseph, thence followed the ohj
Fremont trail and after seventy-four days reache
Hangtown, Cal., where Mr. Zimmermann worked fti
a time. Along the banks of the river he then enj
gaged in mining for six months, when his righ

RESIDENCE OP PETER HOF.CKER, 5EC. 8,, SHAW'S POI NT TP. , MACOUPIN CO., ILL.

. ......

residence or herman f. ziMMERMAnr. sec, sa., bunker hill.

.,-..■

RESIDENCE OF f, W. Z\ MM ERM AN N , SEC.33.,BU NKER HI LL TP.MACOU PI N CO., ILL.

UiRABV

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RKCORI).

311

ankle was crushed. As no physician was access-
ible in that country he suffered greatly from the ac-
cident and resolved to return home. He had been
quite successful in his mining operations and with
a considerable quantity of gold dust he sailed < nit
of the Golden Gate in an ocean vessel, returning
home by way of the Isthmus. They touched on
the island of Cuba and thence sailed to New Or-
leans and afterward up the river to Alton.

For a time after his return Mr. Zimmerman en-
gaged in farming in Madison County and then pur-
chased his present farm on section 33, Bunker Hill
Township, which has now been his home for about
a third of a century. He has a pleasant residence, a
view of which appears on another page, good bams
and other outbuildings and all the improvements
pecessary to a model farm. Although he had little
capital when he came to America, he has worked
his way steadily upward, overcoming the obstacles
in his path and is now numbered among the well-
to-do farmers of the community. In political sen-
timent Mr. Zimmerman was formerly a Democrat,
but since the war has been a Republican. Both he
and his wife are members of the German Methodist
Church of Bunker Hill, and such have been their
lives that they have won the conQdente and esteem
of all with whom they have come in contact.

ETER IIOECKER, President of the Board
of School Directors of Shaw's Point Town-
ship, is numbered among the leading Ger-
man-American citizens of this county,
where he has a beautiful farm on section 8.
Through unremitting exertions he has become the
owner of two hundred and thirty acres, all under
a high state of cultivation, and divided into fields
from which good crops are garnered at the proper
time. He has embellished his estate with substan-
tial farm buildings and a commodious residence,
and is carrying on the work of general farming
systematically and with pleasing success. The at-
tention of the reader is invited to a view of his
homestead which appears on another page.

A native of Germany, Mr. Iloecker was born
November 20, 1840, and is the son of Abraham
and Catherine (Darsam) Hoecker. When he was

live years old he accompanied his parents across
the broad Atlantic and after landing in New York
came West with them to St. Clair County, 111.
Here this worthy couple resided for many years,
engaged in farming pursuits and becoming known
as honorable citizens. When they became old, they
left their homestead and removed to Macoupin
County, making their home with our subject dur-
ing their declining years 'and here also they passed
from earth. They were surrounded by all the com-
forts which affection could supply and after brave-
ly fighting the battle of life, peacefully entered
into their final rest.

The youth of our subject was passed in much
the same manner as that of most farmer boys, alter-
nating his attendance in school with labor at home.
He early gailfttkalgjaelical knowledge of agricul-
ture an«l wheS%Jrej&red to start out in life for him-
self, nalurany 'c^iTOff'ralWm* as his avocation. In
18G5 he left St. Clair County, where he had re-
sided after coming to the United States, and lo-
cated in Shaw's Point Township, this county. He
become identified with this community and is
known as an honorable, high minded citizen. As
above stated he is now President of the School
Board, of which he has been a member for many
years. He has also served the people in various
minor ottiees and politically is independent, casting
his ballot in favor of those whom he thinks best
qualified to serve the interests of the people.

On January 23, 1873, Mr. Hoecker was married
to Miss Mary Laubenthal, an estimable woman,
whose price has indeed been "far above rubies"
and whose children "rise up and call her blessed."
Mrs. Hoecker is the daughter of Jacob and Mary
(Weaver) Laubenthal, natives of Germany, who
came to the United States, settling in Monroe
County, 111., where they died. Their daughter,
Mary, was born in Monroe County, November 27,
1852, and was there reared to maturity. Mr. and
Mrs. Hoecker are the parents of eight children, as
follows: Anna L., Katie L., Louis, Mary T., Otilda
A., August, Elenora, and John. Elenora died whin
three and one-half years old, and the other child-

312

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

ren remain under the parental roof. They are
being carefully instructed, not only in matters of
the intellect but in graces of character, and their
increase in knowledge and true politeness gratifies
their parents greatly.

EWffi JOHNSON, a retired farmer, living
at Carlinville, has been a resident of this
county forty-six j'ears, coming here in pio-

neer times, and he has contributed his quota to its
growth and prosperity. He was born in Clark
County, Ind., June 30, 1820, a son of James John-
son, who was a Pennsylvanian by birth, born in
1788. The father of the latter, who was also
named James, removed from Pennsylvania to Ken-
tucky in 1700, floating down the Ohio in a flat-
boat to his destination. He resided for a lime in
Scott County, and was one of its early settlers.
lie went from there to Shelby County in 1702, and
resided there until his death.

The father of our subject was reared in Kentucky.
He was one of the men set to guard the river at
the falls to intercept Aaron Burr when he was ar-
rested for plotting the formation of a new and rival
State from the South-western territory of the Union,
and later he received a land grant for his services.
He married in Kentucky Miss Mary Miller, who
was born in Pennsylvania, and was a daughter of
David and Elizabeth (Wise) Miller. In 1811 Mr.
Johnson became a pioneer of Clark County, Ind..
that State then being a territory, still in the pos-
session of the Indians, with but few white inhabi-
tants. He built a log house on the tract of land
that he bought from the Government, and in that
humble abode in the wilderness his son of whom
we write was born. The father cleared a good
farm, and resided on it until 1868, when he sold it
and came to Illinois to spend his last days in Ma-
coupin County, and here his death occurred in
1871. His wife died on the old farm in Indiana
in 1842.

The subject of this biographical review grew to
a stalwart manhood in his native county, and was
educated in its primitive schools, that were taught

in log houses, which were rudely furnished witl
seats made by splitting poplar logs hewn smootl
on one side and wooden pins inserted for leg*
Mr. Johnson remained with his parents until In
was twenty-four years old, affording his father val
uable assistance on the farm, and also working a
the trade of a cooper. In 1815, in the prime aui
vigor of early manhood, imbued by the pionee
spirit of his ancestors, he, too, sought to build up;
home in a new country, and coming to Illinois oi
horseback, be cast his lot with the early settlers o
Bird Township. He bought a tract of wild prai
rie on section l,and by hard pioneer labor devcl
oped in time into a fine farm. His first work wa
to erect a log cabin, and when he married he am
his bride commenced life together within its walls
He was much prospered in his calling, and in Sep
tern her, 1889, was enabled to retire from aclivi
business, renting his farm and coming to Carlin
ville, where he had previously erected a comforta
ble house, in which he has since made his home.

One of the most important events in the life o
our subject was his marriage November 25, 1847
to Miss Minerva Stevens Good, a native of Fayette
Greene County, III., born September 25, 1828
They have two children, Clara E. and Edgar K
The former married Peter L. Denby, of South Pal
myra Township, and they have two children, Zoc
and Frederick L. Edgar married Viola Harringtoi
and they have one child, named Lois. They lin
at Carlinville.

Mrs. Johnson comes of one of the old pioneei
families of this State. Her father, Ezekiel Good '
was a native of Georgia, and was a sou of Thoma.-
IT. Good, who was a Virginian by birth. The lat-
ter removed from Virginia to Georgia, thence tc
South Carolina, and from there came to Illinois in
1815, in territorial days. He evolved a farm from
the wilderness on which he continued to live until
death ended his earthly pilgrimage. The maiden
name of his wife was Gillam, and she also died in
Madison County.

Mrs. Johnson's father was a 3'oung man when
he came to Illinois with his parents. After mar-
riage he settled in Greene County, whence he came
in 1820, to Macoupin Count}-, and was one of the
first to settle at Carlinville, the house that he built

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

313

being the first dwelling erected on the present site
of the city. He was also one of the first to engage
in mercantile business here. He did not continue
n long, however, but devoted himself to fanning
and surveying. He was the first Postmaster at
Carlinville, and the Circuit Court was held in his
bouse. In 1834 his useful life was terminated by
his death, and Macoupin County was deprived of
the services of one of its practical, energetic pio-
neers. The maiden name of his wife was Alice
Bird, and she was born in New York City. Her
father, Henry Knickerbocker Bird, was a native of
the State of iS'ew York, and commenced the life of
a sailor in his boyhood, becoming in time the com-
mander of a vessel. Mrs. Johnson's mother died
at Carlinville in 1851.

A sturdy Republican in politics, Mr. Johnson
has always faithfully supported his party. For
thirty-three years he held the office of Postmaster,
and has served as School Trustee and Township
Assessor. His life-course has been marked by
strict integrity in all things, and as a man and a
citizen he has always conducted himself so as to
win and retain the respect of all with whom he
conies in contact. In his wife Mr. Johnson has a
faithful helpmate and companion. She is a sincere
Christian and a valued member of the Methodist
Episcopal Church.

^OHN J. WOMACK. This gentleman i 8
identified with the vast army of fanners
who are doing so much to enhance the pros-

RsW perity of the State of Illinois, and whose
homes attest to their enjoyment of the material
comforts which they gain and the advantages
afforded by modern civilization. His home is on
section 32, Shaw's Point Township, and his farm
of one hundred and sixty acres is as carefully and
intelligently tilled as any in Macoupin County.
His character is one worthy to be held up as a
model to those who succeed him, while his record
as a citizen can be pointed to with pride by hisi
[posterity.

Mr. Womack claims Kentucky as his native

Slate, and in Spencer County he was born Novem-
ber 27, 1819. Being the son of a poor man, he
was obliged to assist his father in laboring for
the support of the family, anil his educational ad-
vantages were therefore limited, lie has made
up for the deficiences of his early education by
careful reading, and is always well posted upon
all topics of importance. He spent the first six-
teen years of his life in the Blue Grass State, and
in 1835 accompanied his father. John W. Womack,
to Macoupin County, this State. The father lo-
cated first in Shaw's Point Township, and thence,
after a sojourn of ten years, he removed to Bird
Township, where lie died. The mother of our
subject, Elizabeth (Maddox) Womack, died in
Kentucky.

Since 1835 Mr. Womack has resided continu-
ously in- this county, where he has been engaged
in farming. He was married in Shaw's Point
Township, December 23, 1847, to Miss Mary A.
Lofton, and of the eight children born to them
we note the following: Thomas W. served during
the late war in the Seventh Illinois Infantry, and
died in Louisville, Ivy.; Barbara A. died when two
years old: William is at home; Abigail [Kissed
from earth at the age of twenty three; Lucy died
in infancy; John is at home; George died when
about twenty years old ; Albartis passed away at
the age of less than nineteen years. Mrs. Womack
died at their home in Shaw's Point Township
October 8, 1865.

The lady who now presides over the domestic
affairs in the home of Mr. Womack became his
wife May 9, 1867. She was born in Kentucky
and bore the maiden name of Ann M. Bain bridge.
She was the widow of John 1). Thompson, of Car-
linville Township, and her marriage to Mr. Wo-
mack was solemnized in the city of Carlinville.
To Mr. Womack and his estimable wife two chil-
dren have been born — James II. and Frederick M.,
both of whom are still under the parental roof.

Mr. Womack keeps himself informed regarding
political and other issues, votes the Republican
ticket and takes special interest in educational
matters. His fellow-citizens have often called
upon him to fill various positions of responsibility
and trust, and to the duties of every ollice he

314

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

he has brought the same enterprise and devotion
winch has characterized his personal efforts, lie
has been Supervisor of Shaw's Point Township
seven terms, and has served as Justice of the Peace
eight years. For twenty-six years in succession
he has been the efficient School Director of his
district, and has in various ways been identified
with the progress of the county. For many years
he and his estimable wife have been members of
the Methodist Episcopal Church, iu which he has
been Steward and Trustee. He is a firm believer
in the power of Christian principle, and he thinks
the good of the people is subserved by religious
societies, even though thry are not of his denomi-

nation.

->&£&&f&*^

LIAS TONGATE, one of the prosperous
farmers of the county, is located on section
3, South Palmyra Township. He has one
hundred and twenty-one acres of well improved
land and is prosecuting his chosen work with the
zeal and intelligence that make a success of an un-
dertaking, lie belongs to one of the pioneer fam-
ilies of the county, his grandparents having brought
their family hither in 1837. Grandfather Ton gate,
whose given name was Achilles, was born in Am-
herst County, Va., removed from his native State
to Kentucky, thence to Missouri and to this State
in 1836. For about a twelvemonth he resided in
Morgan County, then made a permanent location
near Palmyra. He and his faithful wife lived to-
gether sixty-six years, and he survived her only a
few years, reaching the venerable age of ninety-
three. He sat on the jury in the first murder trial
in this county which brought in a verdict of guilty
and was followed by hanging. Grandfather Ton-
gate accumulated a fortune of about $10,000, which
was divided among six sons and a daughter.

Micajah C. Tongate, father of our subject, was
born in Green County, Ky., June 1, 1821, and hav-
ing accompanied his parents to this State, grew to
maturity here. November 16, 1843, he married
Melinda Fletchei, a native of Kentucky who died
August 24, 1853. She had four children, two of
whom survive — Elias and Nancy J., the latter now

the widow of William Davis. In .lime, 1854 Mr.
Tongate made a second marriage, wedding Mary
A. Cherry, a native of Tennessee, who came to this
State when quite young. This union was blest by
the birth of five children, four of whom are now
living and all in South Palmyra Township. The
third of these is William M. and the youngest is
Ilattie L., who is unmarried. The others are
Vesta II., wife of James W. Challacombe, and Ida
M., wife of F. K. Strale. The mother died in De-
cember, 1883, and the father passed away July 19,
18110. Mr. Tongate left an estate of two hundred
and forty eight acres of well-improved land. He
was a Democrat and never failed to deposit his
vote. He never sought office but was sometimes
chosen for local positions of trust. He was a mem-
ber of the Masonic fraternity.

Elias Tongate was born in this county January
12, 1818, was educated in the common schools and
reared as a farmer. He thoroughly understands
his calling and secured good results for his labors.
He was married, October 26, 1873, to Clara E.
Chiids, who was born in this county in 1850. She
was removed from her family by death in 1881,
leaving to the tender care of her husband two
daughters — Melinda C. and Nellie M. She was a
member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.
Her father was Thomas W. Chiids, whose name is
familiar to many of our readers. Mr. Tongate is
a Democrat and a member of the Masonic frater
nitv. He has held township offices and Has worth-
ily discharged the duties pertaining thereto and
at the same time has been a good citizen and
oue who is respected by his acquaintances.

"William M. Tongate whose home is on section
4, South Palmyra Township, is the only surviving
son of Micajah and Mary (Cherry) Tongate, and
is therefore a half-brother of our subject. The
history of his paternal ancestors has alread} - been
given in brief. His mother was born in December,
1825, and accompanied her parents, William and
Anna (Crawford) Cherry, to this State in 1833.
They settled in this county and the parents died
soon after. Miss Cherry received a good common-
school education and for nine years was engaged
in teaching in this Stale and Missouri. She aband-
oned her profession in order to become the wife of

UBHAKY
«""VE«SITV OF ILUNQK

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

317

Mr. Tongate and immediately after their marriage
tliey settled on the land the husband already
owned. .She was somewhat of an invalid for twen-
ty-two years luit was able to be up until within
twenty-four hours of her death. She was a mem-
ber of the Christian Church. William Tony-ate is
living on the homestead and he is unmarried; his
sister Hattie is his housekeeper, lie is a well-rc-
specled young man, a good farmer and citizen, and
a pleasant, companion.

a APT. HENRY W. KERR. A gallant offi-
, cer in the late Civil War, in which he won
' a fine military record, and afterward attain-
ing a high reputation at the bar, Capt. Kerr has.
since he turned his attention to agriculture, made a
success at that vocation which Horace Greeley
aptly styled the "noblest of professions," and now
stands among the leading farmers of Honey Point
Township. His portrait on the opposite page rep-
resents one whose interests have long been identi-
fied with those of the county.

Capt. Kerr was born in Monroe Count}', Ky.,
January 11. 1836. His father, Abraham Kerr, was
a native of Guilford Court House, N. C, and was
a son of John Kerr, who was born in the same lo-
cality. The name of the great-grandfather of our
subject was Levi Kerr, and he was born in Vir-
ginia of Welsh parentage. He removed to North
Carolina in the early settlement of that colon}', and
there spent the rest of his days as a farmer, dying
at Guilford Court House at a ripe age. He was a
soldier of the Revolution.

John Kerr grew to man's estate in North Caro-
lina, and was there married to Sarah Scott, who was
also born in North Carolina. He learned the trades
of a blacksmith and miller and carried them on in
his native State until his removal to Kentucky in
1810. He became a pioneer of Monroe County,
that State, buying a large tract of land bordering
on a stream, which he named Kettle Creek because
he found a kettle therein. He built a gristmill

with a bolter operated by hand, and also had a dis-
tillery connected with his mill. He served under
Jackson in the War of 1812, and took part in the
battle of New Orleans. His life was brought to a
close in June 1848, at a venerable age; his wife; also
lived to be very old, her death occurring in Mon-
roe County in 1H70. at which time she was ninety-
five years old.

The father of our subject was young when his
parents removed to Kentucky, and there the re-
mainder of his youth was passed. He was married
in Monroe County to Nancy Davis, a native of
Rockingham Couuty,Va., and a daughter of Joshua
and Sarah Davis, who were also Virginians. In
1843 Mr. Kerr determined to leave his old Ken-
lucky home to try farming in Missouri. With his
wife and seven children he started for his destina-
tion with ox-teams, and cooked and camped at
night while on the journey. He bought a tract of
wild land in Dallas County after his arrival in Mis-
souri, and erecting a log cabin for the shelter of
his family, at once entered upon tho pioneer task
of preparing his land for cultivation, and broke a
good many acres and placed theni under tillage
during his residence there. In September, 1847, he
sold that property and coining to Macoupin County,
settled in what is now Shaw's Point Township. At
that time the settlements in this county were con-
fined to the timber, and the prairie land was uncul-
tivated. Wild animals, such as deer and wolves,
were plentiful, and the country roundabout was
still in the hands of the pioneers. Alton and St.
Louis were the only convenient markets until the
railway was completed. Wheat sold at the former
place for thirty-seven and one-half cents a bushel,
and dressed hogs so'.d at St. Louis at #1.50 to #2.50
per hundred pounds.

In 1865 Mr. Kerr disposed of his farm at Shaw's
Point, and took up his residence at Carlinville,
where he lived until 1870. Removing then to
Lovington, Moultrie County, he bought property,
and there he and his good wife passed their remain-
ing days in comfort and happiness, he dying in
1875 and she in 1877. Mr. Kerr was a sound
Democrat in his political views. While a resident
of Shaw's Point he served as Justice of the Peace
a Dumber of years. Both he and his wife were

318

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

people of rare merit, who letl exemplary lives, and
were devoted members of the Christian Church.

The subject of this biographical review was
seven years old when he accompanied his parents
in their migration to Missouri and was twelve
years of age when they retraced their steps East-
ward and settled in this county. From the time
that he was six years old he attended school in the
winter and worked on the farm at other seasons
until he was eighteen years old, when he started
out in life for himself. He found employment on
a farm, and being of a studious turn of mind lie
devoted his spare time to his books, and when
twenty -one taught one term of school. He was
ambitious to prepare himself for a professional life,
and selecting the law as best suited to his tastes, he
entered the law office of Robert M. McWilli.-uns at
Hillsboro. Under the instruction of that gentle-
man he pursued his legal studies and in 1858 was
admitted to the bar.

On September 1, 1861, Capt. Kerr threw aside
his law business to lake up the military profession,
animated by the same patriotic spirit that had
made his great-grandsire take up arms at the time
of the Revolution and had caused his grandfather
to become a soldier when war again broke out with
England. He enlisted as a private in Company E,
Forty-ninth Illinois Infantry, but was mustered in
as Second Lieutenant. He displayed such excel-
lent qualities as an officer that he was subsequently
promoted to the position of First Lieutenant, and
in that capacity commanded his company for some
time before he was commissioned its captain. He
took an active part in many important battles, in-
cluding Ft. Donelson, Shiloh, siege of Corinth,
Little Rock and Tupelo, Miss., and accompanied
Gen. Banks on his Red River expedition. He also
served under Gen. A. J. Smith in Missouri while
he was fighting Price's army.

After the battle of Nashville Capt. Kerr was
sent in charge of a detachment of soldiers to dis-
lodge a party of bushwhackers that were stationed
at the mouth of Sand Creek. He performed his
difficult and dangerous task in an able and brilliant
manner, and so as to win the commendations of
his superiors for his coolness and skill in routing
the enemy. That was the last battle in which he

fought, and he was honorably discharged in Padu-
cah, Ky., in 1865.

In the fall of the year after his retirement from
the army Capt. Kerr went to Savannah, Tenn., to
practice law. In 1866 Parson Brownlow, then
Governor of that State, appointed him Attorney-
General for the Twelfth Tennessee Circuit, and he
served with distinction in that responsible office
for eighteen months during the trying period of
reconstruction. He then resigned and returned to
Illinois, and for a year resided in Carlinville. At
the expiration of that time he adopted the calling
of a farmer, and carried on operations in Bird
Township for some years. In 1881 he sold his
property there and bought his present farm on
section 4, Honey Point Township. This is a fine,
highly productive prairie farm of one hundred
and sixty acres, and since it came into his posses-
sion he has greatly increased its value by the many
excellent improvements that he has made, includ-
ing the substantial set of farm buildings which
he has erected.

Capt. Kerr was united in marriage with Miss
Mary A. Purvianee October 4, 1866. To them
have been born eight children: Henry W. Jr., M.
Cornie, Annie E., Jennie M., N. Blanche, Speed,
John F. and James W. P. Mrs. Kerr is a native
of this county, Polk Township her birthplace, and
she is descended from the old pioneer stock of this
State. Her father, Robert W. Purvianee, was born
in Madison County, III., December 22, 1813. Her
grandfather, William Purvianee, was a native of
North Carolina. At an early date he removed
from there to this part of the country then known
as the Northwestern Territory, and located in what
is now Troy Township, Madison County. Mrs.
Kerr's father spent his early life in his native
county, remaining there until 1838, when he started
with his bride for Macoupin County, traveling
thither with a team, and bringing all their house-
hold goods with them. A few months prior to that
he had entered a tract of land from the Govern-
ment in Polk Township. He built a log cabin and
and in that humble dwelling he and his young wife
commenced housekeeping. He improved a good
farm, and replaced his first home by a good frame
house and erected other buildings. He resided

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

310

there for many yeais, but spent the last part of his
life at Carlinville. where both he and his wife died.
Her maiden name was Morinda Gaskill, and she
was also bom in Madison County.

Capt. Kerr has always been a stanch supporter
of Republican principles, and since the war has
voted with that party. His services as a soldier
are commemorated by his connection with the Dan
Mcssick Post, G. A. R. Socially, he is a member
of Mt. Nebo Lodge, No. 76, A. F. <fe A. M. He
is engaged in stock-raising, in which lie has met
with success. Of his herd of fifteen registered
cattle, six are imported. This brief record of the
life of Mr. Kerr shows that he has ever been an
honorable man and a loyal citizen, and no higher
eulogy can be pronounced on anyone.

— J-Hie^Sgai-^

HyfeRS. SARAH J. (ARMSTRONG) HALL,
If \\\ widow of Edson Chase Hall, a former well-
I Ifi known business man of this county, is a
* lady greatly respected in Chesterfield,

where she is pleasantly situated in a home that is
replete with coziness and true comfort. She was
born near Athensville, Greene Count}', and is a
daughter of one of the pioneers of that section of
Illinois, John Armstrong. Her father was a na-
tive of Northumberland, Scotland, and was a son
of William and .lane Armstrong, who were also of
Scottish birth and spent their entire lives in their
native land.

John Armstrong left his old home when he was
a lad of fourteen years to accompany an English
family to ihe United States. They came directly
to Illinois, and were among the Grst to locate in
Greene County. Indians were then more numerous
than whites, and the country was mostly in its
primitive condition, the greater part of the land
being owned by the Government and for sale at
prices ranging from twelve and one-half cents to
11.25 an acre. When Mr. Armstrong attained
manhood he entered a tract of land near Athens-
ville, and erected two log cabins, one for a dwell-
ing and the other for a store, as in addition to
farming he intended to engage in mercantile pur-

suits, keeping a general stock of merchandise,
including groceries, dry goods, boots, shoes, etc.
There were no railroads there then, anil he had to
team all his produce to Alton, where he purchased
his goods, the trip occupying three days. He re-
sided at Athensville until his death, which occurred
in 1859. That town was then deprived of a good
citizen who had interested himself in its welfare
and had been active in promoting its commerce, as
well as in developing the agricultural resources of
that county.

The maiden name of Mrs. Hall's mother was
Elizabeth Gelder, and she was a daughter of John
and Elizabeth Gelder. For an account of her par-
ents see sketch of John Gelder that appears else-
where in this book. After the death of her husband
Mrs. Armstrong came to Chesterfield and passed
her remaining days here, dying February '20, 1878,
at a venerable age. She was the mother of these
six children: Thomas II., Mary A., Sarah J., John
W., Charles and Elizabeth.

Mrs. Hall was carefully reared and was well
trained in all that goes to make a good housewife.
She remained with her mother until her marriage,
November 20, 1872, to Edson Chase Hall. Her
wedded life with Mr. Hall was hallowed by the
birth of three children: Grace, Horace Chase and
May.

Edson C. Hall was a native of Wisconsin, born
Februarj' 2, 1837. He was a son of Dr. Jeremiah
Hall, who was born in New Hampshire. He was
educated as a physician in Ltoston, and going to
Wisconsin in Territorial days he was one of the
pioneers of his calling in that section of the coun-
try. After a time he removed to Iowa, and was
one of the early settlers of Danville, Des Moines
County, where he practiced medicine until his
death, becoming one of the leading men of his pro-
fession in that part of the State. The wife of Dr.
Hall was Harriet Conning, who was born in New
York and died at Danville, Iowa.

Mr. Hall, the husband of our subject, was reared
and educated in Danville. At the age of nineteen
he entered upon his mercantile career as a clerk in
a store in that place, and continued thus engaged
until the Civil War broke out. He was then in the
prime and vigor of early manhood with the promise

320

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

of a successful life before him, but he laid aside
personal consideration to enlist in defense of the
Union, becoming a member of the One Hundred
and Thirty-third Iowa Infantry. He took part in
every battle in which his regiment engaged, re-
maining with it until the end and winning an hon-
orable record as a patriotic and efficient soldier,
and after peace was declared he was discharged
with his comrades.

Returning northward after leaving the army Air.
Hall sought and obtained a position as clerk at
Alton, III. He subsequently established himself in
business at Chesterfield, and was thus prosperously
engaged up to the time of his death, which occur-
red June 3, 1884. Chesterfield then lost a valuable
citizen who had materially promoted its commerce
as one of its leading merchants. The Congrega-
tional Church was deprived of the help and liberal
support of one of its most esteemed members. He
was missed not only by his family, but by the
friends and acquaintances that he had gathered
around him during his residence here, as he was a
man whose sterling integrity of character and
geniality won him regard. Mrs. Hall shared the
consideration in which her husband was held, and
she stands high in the social circles of this town.
She is of the Episcopal faith, and is a member of
the church of that denomination.

OBERT 8. COWAN, M. D., has been prac-
ticing medicine at Girard for more than
twenty years,and his high professional stand-
ing among the physicians of this county is
indicative of the success that he has attained in his
career. He is a native of Sullivan County ,Tenn., born
March 9, 1833, a son of George R. Cowan, a native
of East Tennessee and a grandson of Robert Cowan,
who was born in the North of Ireland, being a de-
scendant of Scotch ancestry. He came to America
before the Revolution in the prime of young man-
hood and when the war broke out between the Col-
onists and the Mother Country he entered the Con-
tinental army, and did brave service in the cause
of liberty. He fought under Gen, Washington,

and was with the army when it crossed the Dela-
ware. When peace was declared he resided in Vir-
ginia for a time, and then removed to Tennessee,
of which he was a pioneer, and there his life was
brought to a close at a ripe age. The maiden
name of his wife, great-grandmother of subject,
was Nancy Rutledge. She is thought to have been
born in South Carolina, and she died in Tennessee.
She was the mother of five sons, — James, Andrew,
William, George and John. The three elder sons
served under Jackson at the battle of New Orleans
during the War of 1812.

The father of our subject was reared and mar-
ried in Tennessee, Mary May becoming his wife.
She was a native of that Stale, and a daughter of
Dr. Samuel and Catherine (Shelby) May. Her
father was a native of England, and a surgeon by
profession. Mr. Cowan early learned the trade of
a tanner, and engaged in the business at Paper-
ville, Sullivan County. He also had an interest in
a paper mill and other manufacturing industries.
He was a man of marked energy of character, of
many resources, and very capable. In 1838 he
resolved to try his fortunes in the State of Mis-
souri, that was still in the hands of the pioneers,
his bold, resolute spirit, hardy nature and powers
of endurance fitting him to cope with the many
difficulties to be encountered in settling in a new
country. With his wife and six children he era-
barked on a flat-boat and floated down the Holston
River to the Ohio, where he boarded a steamer
that bore him and his family down the waters of
the Ohio and up the Mississippi and Missouri riv-
ers to Boonville, Mo. He located in Polk County,
and entered large tracts of Government land in
different counties, which he subsequently improved
with slave labor. He resided for some years in
that part of Polk County now included in Cedar
County, and then sold his property there and re-
moved to St. Clair Count}', where he had previ-
ously entered land. He erected suitable buildings
and improved a large farm, which he made his
home until 1854. In that year he went to Bolivar,
the county-seat of Polk County to reside, and
soon after he was appointed Judge of Probate, and
held that office with distinction until the breaking
out of the war. He then retired to private life, and

PORTRAIT AND BJOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

321

passed his remaining days, in tlie home of a daugh-
ter at Sarcoxie, Jasper Countj r , Mo., dying Janu-
ary 1, 1874. He had been bereaved of his wife
many years before, she dying in St. Clair County,
Mo., in 1852. She was the mother of six children,
of wliom these are the names, — Catherine, George,
Nancy, Robert S., Maiy and Salina. Our subject
was but a child when his parents migrated to Mis-
souri, and he was reared under pioneer influences.
There were no free schools in Missouri in his
younger days, and he gained the preliminaries of
his education in the school house that his father
erected on his land, under the instruction of a
teacher that his father employed. Later he became
a student at Ebenezer College, ten miles north of
Springfield, Mo., and there he laid a solid founda-
tion for his medical studies, which he commenced
at the age of twenty-three, under the tuition of Dr.
Samuel B. Bowles, of Greenfield. He afterward
further prepared himself for his profession by at-
tending lectures at the Missouri Medical College,
and he began upon his career as a physician in
Dade County.

From that county the Doctor went in a short
time to Newton County, where there seemed to be
a wider field of usefulness, and he was engaged in
active practice there when the war broke out.
Having been reared in a slave state his sympathies
naturally went out to the Southern cause and he
offered his services to the Confederate States in
1861, many of his lifelong friends enlisting at the
same time, and he was appointed Assistant Surgeon
of Hie Third Missouri Cavalry. He was soon promo-
ted to be Surgeon of his regiment, and did valuable
service in that capacity in Price's army for three
years, gaining an experience in those trying times
that added to his professional knowledge and in-
creased his reputation for skill and ability. At the
expiration of that time he resigned his position
and went to Mexico, where he spent six months.
After that he staid in New Orleans until the
spring of 1865, when he came to this county
and opened an office at Nilwood. In 1869 he
came from there toGirard, and has been in contin-
uous practice here since. The Doctor's success
may he partly attributable to his frank, generous
nature, and his courteous and thoughtful treatment

of all with whom he comes in contact, his manner
gaining him popularity and friendship on all sides.
He is a member of the Macoupin County Society
for Medical Improvement, and also of the Stale
Medical Society.

Dr. Cowan was happily married in 1854 to Eliz-
abeth Weir, a native of Cooper County, Mo., and
a daughter of the Rev. Samuel and Mary B.
(Stephens) Weir. Our subject and his wife have
five children living, namely: George R., a gradu-
ate of the St. Louis Medical College, and now
Ins father's assistant; Mary, wife of Ed E. Mc-
Coy, of Springfield, III.; Florence; Do! lie and
Elizabeth G.

orx>

DWARD B. MEATYARD. The late Mr.

Meatyard is well remembered by many citi-

£i zens of this county, as he was born at Piasa

and there spent the years until after he had grown
to manhood. His natal day was February 13, 1839,
and his parents were Robert and Betsey (Brown)
Meatyard, who were natives of England. In his
early boyhood Edward displayed the bent of his
genius and he was educated as a civil engineer,
making a thorough study of mechanics. At the
death of his mother he inherited a large sum of
money, and he was thus enabled to do more in the
way of investigation and invention than is the case
with some who possess an inventive genius.

December 24, 1873, Mr. Meatyard was united in
marriage with Miss Anna E. Boswell, daughter of
John G. and Ann (Nightingale) Boswell, who live
in Shipman Township. The bride was born in
London, England, but was brought to the United
States by her parents when an infant, and is to all
intents and purposes a thorough American. She
possesses an estimable character, a well-in formed
mind, and much capability for affairs, so that since
she was left a widow she has been able to look after
her monied interests very satisfactorily. Her home
is brightened by the presence of four children,
named respectively: Maynard M.. James E., Bessie
N., and Mina E.

About four months after his marriage Mr. Meat-
yard removed to Walworth County, Wis., and

322

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

fonn<l a pleasant home on the shores of Lake Gen-
eva. He then gave his attention to inventions and
secured patents on about twenty, the most import-
ant of which were a car wheel and a press used in
making the same, and a steam hammer. For his
patent-right on the last named he was offered $75,-
000, but as he considered it the foundation of his
work he refused the offer. He accomplished a vast
amount of work, and had the foundation laid for
a large fortune, but, his career was cut short by
death, May 13, 1889, when he was but little more
than fifty years old. On being taken sick he sold
out his property at Lake Geneva and spent some
time in a hospital at Chicago, then came to Ship-
man where he died three weeks later.

Mr. Meatyard was the author of many valuable
papers on works in which he was interested, and
published a volume on the "Transportation Prob-
lem." This is a working-man's manual, treating
of curves, grades, locations, permanent way, heavy
rails, rail joints, bridges, uniform distribution of
moving load on tracks and bridges, light strong
oars, steel-cushioned wheels, train brakes, self lubri-
cation, radial axles, traction resistance, and man}'
crude ideas to be worked out with hard and tough
steel. He enlisted on the Union side at the break-
ing out of the war as a private, but by bravery and
true worth he was promoted successively through
the various offices, and at the close of the war came
out with the shoulder straps and rank of a Major
of Engineering and Artillery.

#~#

'■^r-

ILLIAM N. GULP is a native-bom citi-

Jj zen of this county who is classed among its
W^i 1 foremost farmers and stock-raisers. His
extensive and well equipped farm in Honey Point
Township, shows every evidence of careful cultiva-
tion and superior management, and its fertile har-
vest fields and rich pastures yield a liberal income.
Mr. Culp was born October 1, 1839, at Rivesville,
III. His father, the Rev. .Samuel B. Culp, was a
native of Nicholas County, Ky., born February 1,
1813, a son of one Thomas Culp, who was also of
Kentucky birth, and was a descendant of the old

pioneer stock of that .State. He was a tanner by
trade. In 1815 he migrated to the territory of
Missouri, and was one of the first settlers of Ripley
County. He became a prominent figure in its
public life, and represented it in the State Legisla-
ture. In 1811 he removed to Arkansas, and locat-
ing in Izard County on a tract of timber land, he
erected « saw-mill and manufactured lumber in
connection with farming. His death occurred
there in 1848. The grandmother of our subject
married a second time, becoming the wife of
Thomas Kennedy, and died at the home of the
father of our subject in September, 1844. Her
maiden name was Mary Gahegan, and she was a
native of Nicholas County, Ky. Her father was
John Gahegan. and he was born in Maryland. He
was a Revolutionary soldier, and it is thought that
he served throughout the entire conflict. He took
part in the battles of Lexington and Bunker Hill.
After the Revolution he removed to Kentucky, and
was one of the first settlers of what is now Fayette
County.

The father of our subject did not go to Missouri
with his father, but remained in Kentucky with his
mother. He lived in his native county until lie
was fourteen years old, and then went to Bourbon
Count}-, and lived at Millersburg two years. From
there he went to Paris, where he finished an ap-
prenticeship of seven years, begun at Millersburg,
to learn the trade of a tailor. When he was twenty-
one he went to Cynthiana, and carried on his call-
ing there a few months. His next move was in
the spring of 1834, when he came to Illinois, trav-
eling by the way of the Ohio and Mississippi Riv-
ers to Bushnel's Ferry, now Columbiana, landing
there the 1st of March, and walking from there to
the vicinity of Greenfield, where he visited an old
neighbor. At that time there were but three
buildings on the present site of that town, and
those were of logs, the only store in the village
being kept in one of them. Mr. Culp rented the
back part of that building for a time and plied his
trade. He remained there two years, and we next
hear of him at Rivesville, this county, where he
opened a shop and carried on business as a tailor.

In 1839 the father of our subject turned his at-
tention to farming for two years, engaging at his

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

323

trade a pnrt of the time. In 1845 be came to
Scoltsville and established himself at his tailor bus-
iness, which he conducted four years. At the ex-
piration of that time he bought forty acres of land
in Bird Township, at $2 an acre, going in debt for
it. After he had paid for the land be bought
other reality, until finally he bad two hundred and
ten acres of rich farming land. lie resided on it bus-
ily engaged in its improvement, until 1881, when
he disposed of it at a good price, and bought in
Cold Spring, Shelby County, where be is still liv-
ing. He married April 28, 1838, Gahilla Finley,
and for more than half a century they shared life's
joys and sorrows until they were called upon to
part by her death April 12, 1890.

Her father, William Finley, was born and reared
in South Carolina. He went from there to Geor-
gia, thence to Kentucky, whence he came to Illinois
in 1816, in the territorial days of this State, and lo-
cated at Wood River Fort, now in Madison County.
At that lime there was not a white settler within
the present bounds of Macoupin County, and In-
dians occupied the greater part of the territory now
included in the State of Illinois. A few years
later the grandfather of our subject settled on the
edge of Greene County, and afterward entered a
tract of land from the Government a mile and a
quarter from Greenfield, where he improved a
farm. He finally sold that, and passed the rest of
his days with his children, dying in the fall of
1815, November 12. His wife bore the maiden
name of Sarah Stanford, and she was also of South
Carolina birth. She died in 1839.

William N. Gulp was reared under pioneer influ-
ences in this county, and was educated in its
schools. From his youth up be has always been
engaged in agricultural pursuits, and from the very
Start showed .a special aptitude for his chosen call-
ing, displaying a keen appreciation of the best mod-
ern methods of farming in the management of his
farming interests, and he has so profited by ex-
perience and observation that he is to-day one of
the most prosperous men of his calling in Honey
Point Township. He took possession of his present
farm in 18C4, and now owns upward of five hun-
dred acres of land. He enjoys to the full the re-
spect accorded to an honorable, upright man, whose

habits are exemplary, and whose dealings are
strictly just and fair, it being the universal testi-
mony of his many friends and acquaintances in
this county where his life has been passed, that his
character is thus rightly summed up in the forego-
ing words. In him and his amiable wife the Bap-
tist Church has two of its most earnest members,
who are zealous in helping forward every good
work in the community.

M rs. Culp bore the maiden name of Rachel E.
Frazier. She is a native of South Palmyra Town-
ship, and a daughter of William C. and Melinda
Frazier, pioneers of this county. Mr. and Mrs.
Culp have seven children — Flora, Carrie, Samuel,
Frank, Mabel, Cladius and Mattie.

*fE

eHARLES F. BAUER. It is a question
whether there is an)' people on earth who
have the varied experiences afforded by
travel, of the Americans. The West has been con-
stantly beckoning with alluring hand to golden
fields that promise opulence to the enthusiastic
seeker. After the might}- Father of Waters had
been crossed by eager seekevs for the golden treas-
ures of the earth, Pike's Peak flashed fascinating
gleams of opalescent light in the eager eyes of the
Western traveler. Then California, like the sirens
of the sea, induced weary travelers to leave their
homes and come overland to partake of the intoxi-
cating delights of unparalleled climate and hopes
of riches. The life of Charles F. Bauer is one of
the many, varied and made interesting by his trav-
els and experience in the West. The subject of
this sketch bad come to the State of Illinois in
1852, where he made his home in Dorchester Town-
ship to the end of his life, excepting four years
that he spent in California in the mining regions.
He died at bis home on section 17, Dorchester
Township, November 1G, 1889.

Soon after the discovery of gold Mr. Bauer too
caught the fever, and determined to take his course
Westward. He did not take the overland route as
did so many to their sorrow, but took the ocean
voyage, crossed the Isthmus and arrived at San

324

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

Francisco, where he went into the gold regions,
working- as a laborer for some time. His experi-
ence here was necessarily varied and interesting,
and it never ceased to be a charming subject of
conversation to the gentleman. lie returned from
California by way of the Isthmus in 1856, and be-
gan life anew in Dorchester Township on wild un-
broken farm land. He acquired before his death
eight hundred and thirty-five acres of very fine
land. The most of it is the best the county and
township affords.

Mr. Bauer made one of the most beautiful of
farms of his domain. He built a fine residence,
with all the improvements in the way of farm build-
ings that could be desired. The farm implements
were of the finest. The widow and her children
still reside at the home, and all the land is yet in
the family though divided among the children.
Our subject was born in Sax Altenburg, Germany,
December 8, 1827. He is a brother of J. Henry
Bauer, whose biography may be found in this vol-
ume.

He of whom we write arrived at his majority in
his native German province, ami when only twenty-
five years of age, deeming the promises of Amer-
ica better than those of his native land for an am-
bitious and sturdy young man, crossed the Atlantic
in a sailing-vessel. The trip was a long and tedi-
ous one. He landed at New Orleans, and came to
Illinois, where he remained during the rest of his
life with the exception of the years spent on the
Pacific Slope. Mr. Bauer's life is a fair illustration
of how the industry and energ}- of an intelligent
man can make the fertile acres of our America
laugh with joy and graciously give forth rich treas-
ures. Our subject had an unimpeachable character
for honesty; though he gained his competency with
hard labor he was universally esteemed in his
neigborhood.

Mr. Bauer on his return from California, married
Miss Wilhelmina Kretzchimer. She was born in
Altenburg, Germany, dune 18, 1835. She was a
daughter of Christopher and Johanna (Dingue;
Kretzchimer, natives of Germany, and small farm-
ers who lived and died in their native land. They
were taken away while yet in the heyday of life.
Mrs. Baner, the wife of our subject, is the second

child and first and only daughter born to her par-
ents. One brother, Charles, now lives in California,
while a younger brother Henry still lives in Ger-
many. Mrs. Bauer herself was reared and educated
in her native German province, and was the first of
her family to leave the home nest and come to the
United Slates. Leaving Bremen in a German ves-
sel she arrived in New York City, came to Pitts-
burg, Pa., thence to Columbiana, Ohio, and later
to Macoupin County, III., where she lias since lived.
She has been a true wife and efficient helpmate to
her husband, and is a good and worthy woman.
She is a member in good standing of the Baptist
Church. Eleven children were given to gladden
the hearts and home of this worthy couple. Three
of the children died young, and George died at the
age of twenty-one years. Those still living are
Lewis, who married Mary Perrine; they live in Dor-
chester Township, on a fine fann ; Theodore farms
in this township; Charles, who assists on the home
farm; Emma, William, Ida and Hannah. This
family of bright and interesting children are a
credit to the mother who has so lovingly reared
them.

/p^EORGE W. SMITH. The owner of the
'11 __, farm of forty-seven acres on section 25,
^^|j North Otter Township, is he whose name is
to be found at the head of this writing. A history
of his parents may be found in the sketch of Elisha
Smith in another part of this Record. Our subject
is a native of North Otter Township, being there
born January 3, 1846. He was reared to manhood
on his father's farm, receiving a common-school
education that comprised the three "R's" that was
at that time thought not only indispensible but
almost sufficient for the education of the ordinary
youth. In the intervals of school life he assisted
his father on the farm, remaining on the home
place until his marriage.

Our subject was married in Marion County,
Iowa, September 12, 1867, to Miss Viola Millen, a
daughter of Thomas and Mary ^Clark) Millen.
She was born in North Otter Township, this county,
November 16, 1849. Tbey immediately settled on

MBRAmr

Of THE
IWVtftSITY OF ILLWC"

I*'

"*£*••

)

jt , y^y^jj^

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

327

anew farm previously belonging to li is father and

he lias since lived on this place with the exception
of one year which lie spent in the West. He has
always followed agriculture and is now the owner
of forty -seven acres of land.

Mr. and Mrs. Smith are the parents of three
children — Orali who is a teacher; Laura H. and
Eva E. In politics our subject is a Republican,
being a firm believer in the protective tariff and
all the other tenets of this party. They are both
members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, being
devoted supporters of the same. ,

^p^ERDINAND TAGGART. A goodly num-
I— /gs] ber of men now living in this county have
1 been so successful in their business affairs

as to be enabled to retire from the arduous woik of
life, and enjoy all that heart can wish of material
comfort, pleasant associations and cheerful recrea-
tions. Among this class is Mr. Taggart, whose
portrait appears on the opposite page and who for
some years has been living a life of ease, to which
he is entitled by the manner in which he carried on
the enterprises in which he was engaged earlier in
life. In every occupation in which he took part
he manifested good judgment, and this qualit}'
combined with his persevering industry resulted in
his accumulation of a goodly fortune. He has a
beautiful residence on tbe outskirts of the city,
furnished in accordance with the refined tastes of
its occupants, who are not hampered by a lack of
means, but are able to obtain every adornment they
desire.

Before entering upon the career of our subject
himself, it will lie well to make some mention of
prominent events in the history of his parents.
Samuel Taggart and Margaret Davis were born,
reared and married in Tyrone County, Ireland, and
came to America very early in Ibis century. They
Bettled in Shelby County, Ky., and endured the
self-denials and hardships common to all poineers,
while they were clearing and improving a tract of
timber land. Mr. Taggart died there about 1818
and his widow survived him only six years. Both

belonged to the Methodist Ep.scopal Church. Six
of their children wore reared to maturity.

In the log-house built by his father, Ferdinand
Taggart was born April 6, 1812. lie was six years
old when his father died but he remained with his
mother on the homestead until her decease, when
with two other of the children be went to live with
an aunt. After a year spent in her home he re-
turned to his birthplace and was cared for by bis
eldest brother until he was eighteen years old. At
that time j'oung Taggart came to this State and
made Carrollton, Greene County, his place of re-
sidence about three years, learning t^e trade of
brickmaking. He then came to Carlinville to start
a brickyard for his employer and having done so
he acted for that gentleman one season. This was
in 1833, when Carlinville had a population of
about two hundred and the buildings were mostly
of logs with mud and stick chimneys. There was
not a brick building here and but one brick chim-
ney.

During the season after his arrival here Mr. Tag-
gart bought a lot on tbe e.ist side of tbe square and
also entered eighty acres of Government land near
town. The next year he went to Missouri to ex-
plore, and spent the summer and fall, after which
he returned hither and early in 1835 started a
brickyard for himself. He became a contractor
and among the contracts he had was one for the
brick work on tha court-house that was built in
1837. This was the first court-house built of brick,
the structure previously used having been made of
hewed logs.

As a contractor and builder Mr. Taggart con-
tinued to labor until 1840, when he engaged in the
sale of merchandise in company with A. S. Walker
and William Phelps. They bought goods in St.
Louis, then the chief western market, and had them
hauled to Carlinville by teams. The firm also car-
ried on a branch store at Taylorville. Mr. Taggart
pursued a mercantile career most of the lime until
after the war and proved that be was possessed of
financial tact and business enterprise.

The first marriage of Mr. Taggart was solemn-
ized in 1845, his bride being Ann V. 1 lesser, a lady
who was born in Virginia and died in Carlinville;
she left a daughter, Mary E., who married John

328

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

Mc Neal and has six children. She lives in Carlin-
ville. The second wife of Mr. Taggart was Dar-
inda Renshaw, a native of the State, who also died
in Carlinville. I lis present companion bore the
maiden name of T. V. Walker and is a native of
Tennessee. She is a sister of Charles A. Walker,
to whose sketch the reader is referred for her par-
ental history. She is a lady of One character, be-
longing, like her husband, to the Methodist Epis-
copal Church.

'OSEPII DTZ. We are pleased to mention,
among the enterprising farmers and promi-
nent workers in every good cause, the name
which we have given at the head of this
paragraph. The excellent farm and pleasant home
of Mr. Utz is an object of interest to every one
who passes along the highway near its location,
and those who know the man best most truly re-
spect and esteem him.

Daniel Utz, the father of our subject, was born
near Little York, Pa., and his mother, Magdalena
Mumard, was a native of York County, Pa., and
died in her native State in Cumberland County,
while her husband's last days were spent in Mont-
gomery County, Ohio. Five of their children grew
to years of maturity, and the one of whom we
write was next to the eldest, being born in York
County, Pa., August 19, 1828. His early educa
tion and training were received in his native home
upon his father's farm, and when quite a young
man he accompanied that parent to Maryland, and
lived there for some four years.

In Carroll County, Md., the young man found
his bride in the person of Miss Elizabeth Sharer,
daughter of William and Margaret (Uimbey)
Sharer, both natives of that State. Mr. Sharer died
in Maryland and his widow afterward came to
Illinois and made her home in Morgan County,
until her death. Their daughter Elizabeth was the
youngest in a family of three and was born in Car-
roll County, Md., December 23, 1879.

Soon after their marriage which was celebrated
January 9, 1851, the young couple came to Mont-

gomery County, Ohio, and thence to Darke County,
the same State, and in the fall of 1865 journeyed
still farther West, and coming to the Empire State,
made their home for one year in Morgan County,
after which they came to this county and settled in
North Otter Township, which became their per-
manent home. To them were born ten children,
namely: Ellen, who grew to a beautiful young
womanhood, and died at the age of twenty-three;
Mary, who is now the wife of William Ilockviet-
ner: George W. ; Ann C. the wife of .lames M.
Nead ; Ilattie, who married Charles Crump; Nora,
who is Mrs. William McGinnis; Talitha the wife
of Melvin Reafsnyder; Tabitha, who married Al-
bin Driver; Franceanna and Edward E.

Agricultural pursuits have always claimed the
entire attention and efforts of Mr. Utz, ami in this
work he has been successful and prosperous. Upon
his farm of seventy-two acres of rich and fertile soil
he has erected a pleasant and commodious new
home and has outbuildings, which accommodate
well the work of the farm. Me has been an incum-
bent of the office of School Director, and in that
has been thoroughly satisfactory. Both he and
his capable wife are members of the Methodist
Episcopal Church South, and in this connection he
has Oiled the offices of Steward, Class-Leader and
Trustee. He ever takes a great interest in religious
affairs, and his well-known reputation for reliabil-
ity and thoroughness as well as his devotion to the
cause of Christianity have made him a power in
church circles.

A WILLIAM C. MERRILL, of the firm of
\/sJ/l M err "l & Chase, who are the leading
ffly dry-goods merchants of the village of
Brighton, and one of the oldest houses in this part
of the State, is a gentleman whose biography we
are pleased to present to our readers. This firm
has existed under the Arm name for nearly thirty
years and prior to that time our subject was en-
gaged in the business on his own account for one
year and for one year also under the Arm name of

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

329

Crandall & Merrill. Mr. Merrill is a thorough
business man as also his partner and their business
association has grown'inloa close and warm friend-
ship.

Mr. Merrill came to Brighton in 1857, and in
the spring of that year he established a grocery
store under the firm name of Merrill & Bean.
Later he introduced a drug department and man-
aged this business for some time, and then under
the same title did business in the line of merchan-
dise. Mr. Merrill has been closely associated with
everything of interest in Brighton since before the
village was incorporated and lie has been identified
witli the business interests of the place for many
years. He has also been helpful and active in po-
litical matters and was one of the first members of
the village board of trustees.

Previous to his coming to this county, our sub-
ject had been a resident of California, having gone
there in the spring of 1852, from New York, his na-
tive State, traveling by the water route through
the Straits of Magellan and around Cape Horn,
landing there in the fall of the year after a six
month's vo3'age. The vessel was a propeller and
made many stops on the South American Conti-
nent and Mexico, including San Juan, Valparaiso,
Talqua-Calsawana and other points. At the last
named place they met with a terrible storm that
nearly caused the loss of the vessel, and later the}'
continued the journey having barely escaped the
"yellow jack" at Rio Janeiro, one of their stop-
ping places.

After landing on the Western Slope our subject
turned his attention to the gold mines, working
first at Murphy's Camp and spent the last year of
the three years he was in the Golden State at Vol-
cano, a mining town. After the varied experiences
known only to the miner of those times, he finally
in 1855, returned East by the way of the Isthmus
of Panama to New York City and returned to his
old home in Franklin County, N. Y., where he first
saw the light in Malone, May 4, 1828. He came of
good Huguenot stock, who left their native country,
France, and came to England at the time of the
persecutions and later in Colonial times emigrated
to the New World with the Hartford Colony.
There the first two brothers of this family, Abraham

and Isaac Merrill (whose name in France was
spelled Merl) made their home. The family di-
vided and subdivided and is now to be found in
almost erery Slate in the Union. Some of them
were soldiers in the Revolutionary War.

The grandfather of our subject was of the second
or third generation from the two original brothers.
His name was l'aul Merrill. He was originally a
carpenter but he reasoned as he pounded away with
bis tools that he was making something while he
worked, but that if he were a farmer his work
would go on while he slept, so he changed his occu-
pation. He lived to be over ninety years old. His
son Enoch, the father of cxir subject, is supposed
to be a native of New Hampshire, and was reared
in that state. He was united in marriage with Miss
Betsey Bean who came of an old New England
family of good stock and was born and reared in
New Hampshire.

After marriage Enoch Merrill and his young wife
came to New Yolk Stale in the early days of Frank-
lin County, when it was all wild woods, and there
they hewed out of the timber a pleasant home and
a fine farm. They lived for years in the log bouse
which they erected, and cultivated a large farm,
and there they both died, Mr. Merrill in 1854,
being sixty-four years old, and his wife five years
later, having attained about the same age. They
were earnest and devout members of the Methodist
Episcopal Church.

Three sons and four daughters formed the family
of this worthy and enterprising couple upon the
old homestead, and they have all lived to establish
homes of their own, and to reflect crndit upon
their parents.- Their home training made of them
worthy citizens and industrious and good men and
women. They were taught practical home duties
and the care of the farm and were given a good
education. Our subject: was a teacher before com-
ing West and was at the time of his emigration a
single man, but somewhat later he went back to
bring to his new home the "girl he left behind
him."

The marriage of William C. Merrill and Harriet
A. Smith took place in Franklin County, N. Y., in
1859. They were both reared in that county and
she was also a teacher in her girlhood days. She

330

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

is the daughter of Giles \V. and Sallie (Blanchard)
Smith. Mrs. Smith is now living with a sister in
New York City and has readied the limit of three-
score years and ten. Mr. Smith died some years
ago while living in Minnesota at the age of seventy
years. He was a Democrat in his political views.
Our subject and his wife- have been prominent
figures in both social and church circles in Brigh-
ton. Mrs. Merrill being connected with the Metho-
dist Church. Mr. Merrill is a member of the Blue
Lodjje No. 249, at Brighton. He is a Democrat in
his political views as was his father before him, and
belongs to the old Jacksonian school. Three chil-
dren still live of the number born to this worthy
couple. Herbert F. now lives at Phcenix, Ariz.,
and is engaged in mining interests. He took to
wife lone Winton; Almedia is at home and is the
local editor of the Brighton Times, for her brother
Frank whose biography will be fou-id elsewhere in
this Rkcokd. They have all been educated in the
schools of Brighton and the daughter is a graduate
of the Jacksonville Female College.

, <^r^ „

-"iltv"'

\T/ AMES WIRT, one of the most public-spir-
ited and intelligent citizens of section 2,
Virden Township, was born in Delaware

J County, Ind., July 23, 1849. When still
quite a child he was bereaved by death of a fath-
er's care and love, and soon after this sad event his
mother removed to Clark County, where the boy
passed some ten years of his life, working upon a
farm and attending the district school. After this
he came with the family to Sangamon County, III.,
and settled about five miles northeast of Virden,
where he grew up to a vigorous and useful young
manhood.

It was near Girard, III., that Mr. Wirt found the
lovely and attractive young woman whom he chose
as his companion through life, and to her he was
married June 4, 1878. She bore the maiden name
of Hannah Gibson and is a daughter of C. C.
Gibson, a more full account of whom will be
found upon another page of this Record. Mrs.
Wirt was born near Franklin, Morgan County,

III., January 23, 1854. After marriage the young
couple made their home on section 2, Virden
Township, where they now reside, and where they
own a beautiful tract of one hundred and fifty-
eight acres, upon which are excellent improve-
ments. On another page will be found a view of
the comfortable residence. Their beautiful and
inviting home is more than ordinarily cheerful
and pleasant, and is a fit index to the lives of
the occupants. They are most highly esteemed
and beloved by their neighbors, and Mr. Wirt
stands well in commercial circles, as he is a man
of integrity, reliability, and public spirit.

To Mr. and Mrs. Wirt have been granted four
beautiful children, all of whom are living and
are not only the care but the joy of their faithful
and devoted parents. To them have been given
the following names: Virgil I., Vioia Lee, Lela
G.,and Chalmer C. These children have all been
trained in the Christian faith and doctrine by their
parents, who are members of the German Baptist
Church. In this harmonious household the con-
stant effort of all is to promote the happiness and
prosperity of everyone, and as is always the case
when such noble efforts are made, a good degree
of success follows the occupants of this home.

The father of our subject was James Wirt, who
was a son of Israel F. Wirt. The grandfather died
in Randolph County, Ind., as did also the father,
who passed away in March, 1849. The mother of
our subject was Lydia Studebaker, and her life
ended in Sangamon County, this State in ISlI'.t.

ILLIAM C. ALDERSON, one of the pros-
perous and enterprising agriculturists of
this county, lives on section 16, North
Otter Township, where he has an attractive and
arable tract of land. He is the son of Robert Al-
derson, a native of Sumner County, Tenn., where
he was born in 1810. His worthy mother bore the
maiden name of Elizabeth C. Clack, she being a
native of Kentucky, and born in 1812. This
couple were married in Kentucky and thinking
they could better their fortunes by emigrating

RESIDENCE OF W. C. ALDERSON , SEC. 16., NORTH OTTER TR, MACOUPIN CO., ILL.

- ,. — _

RESIDENCE OF JAMES WIRT, SEC. 2., VI RDEN TR, MACOUPIN CO., ILL.

II8RARY

OF THE

UNIVERSITY OF lUJNOIS

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

333

westward, decided upon Illinois whence they came
early in the '30s. After their arrival here they
settled in Morgan County, where the} - remained
nearly three years. Thence they came to this
county and took up land in North Otter Township
on what is known as Elm Grove. They continued
to reside in this township most of the time until
they removed to Kansas during the latter part of
the '70s and spent their last days in Cherokee
County.

The worth}' parents of our subject had born un-
to them an interesting family of eleven children,
of whom our subject was the second in the
order of birth. lie first saw the light of life in
Morgan County, February 12, 1834, and when he
was still an infant of less than one year his parents
came to North Otter Township, this county. Here
he received the rudiments of his education in the
district schools and as soon as old enough began
the occupation of agriculture which he has fol-
lowed all his life. He has always made a good
success of his work, having a great deal of push,
pluck and perseverance, and he has added at
times to his tract until he now has nine hundred
and two broad and fertile acres, one hundred and
sixty of which are located in Sangamon County,
this State. It is necessary that everything should
be in a line with the land, which is highly culti-
vated and under the best of supervision, and hence
Mr. Alderson has erected on his place a good set
of farm buildings for the accommodation of his
stock, tools, and all necessary outbuildings. But
besides these the residence in which the family re-
sides is one of great attractiveness, a fact which a
glance at the view presented in this connection
will at once prove to the reader.

The lady who presides over the home of Mr.
Alderson with so much grace and dignity was
united in marriage with him March 25, 1858. In
her maiden days she bore the name of Miss Lucre-
tia A. Raffety, and is the daughter of Thomas H.
and Mary (Wriston) Raffety. The father is a na-
tive of Kentucky where he was born in 1812, and
the mother was born in 1810, in Tennessee. They
emigrated to Greene County, III., with their par-
ents and were united in marriage in that count}'
where they have since made their home. They

became the parents of ten children, of whom
the wife of our subject was the fourth born.

The genial union of Mr. and Mrs. Alderson has
been blest by the birth of ten children who are
named as follows: Robert T. who died in infancy;
John II., who married Miss Dora Woodman Mini
is a liveryman; Worner J., who took to wife Nora
Nivins and is a farmer in North Otter Township;
William E., who married Carrie Kable and is a
farmer in North Otter Township; Etta A., who
married William Riffey; Mary E.. who is the
wife of Charles M. Brcnnan; Ella M., Francis B.,
Iva M., and one child who died in infancy un-
named.

Mr. Alderson, though not an office seeker has
held the responsible position of School Director of
his district and not only did so with credit to him-
self but with great advantage to the community.
In politics he casts his vote with the Democratic
party. Religiously he and his amiable wife are
active and e$}Jgjsjjemt members of the Methodist
Episcopal CITtfVcb'»«$»d are la-Id in the highest es-
teem by all with whom they come in contact.

\j~^ ENRY ETTER occupies an honorable posi-
tion among the farmers and stock-raisers of
this county, who have made it a great agri-
cultural centre, developing it from the
wilderness to a highly improved condition, with
many fine farms and beautiful homes within its
borders. The homestead of our subject is pleas-
antly located in South Palmyra Township, and here
he has been engaged ;it his vocation many years.

Mr. Etter was born in Anderson County, Tenn.,
May 14, 1820. His father, who was also named
Henry Etter, was born in Wythe County, Ya., in
1783. The paternal grandfather of our subject
was born of German parentage either in Germany
or Virginia. He spent his last years in the Old
Dominion, where he carried on the occupation of a
fanner.

The father of our subject was young when his
father died. He was bound out to a batter in
Wythe County to learn the trade, and after serv~

334

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

ing his apprenticeship he made a quantity of hats,
and went to Tennessee to sell them. There he met
and married Miss Elizabeth Parks, a native of An-
derson County, that State, and he settled in that
county, following his trade there some years, lie
bought a home eight miles from Clinton, and re-
sided there until 1820, when he sold his properly
and came to Illinois, accompanied by his wife and
nine children, making the removal with a team of
four horses and a wagon, camping and cooking by
the way at nigiit-fall. He located in Greene County,
eight miles east of Carrollton, where he entered
eighty acres of Government land, at $1.25 per
acre, which took all his money, lie erected a
cabin of hickory logs, riving the boards to cover
the roof, which was held in place by poles, the
tloor was made of puncheon, and the door made of
boards rived by hand. No nails were used in the
construction of the cabin, the door was hung with
wooden hinges, and its wooden latch was raised by
a string.

In 1836 Mr. Etler sold his possessions in Greene
County, and coming to Macoupin County, bought
a tract of land in Western Mound Township, on
which he proceeded to build a home. A log cabin
stood on the place, and that with a few acres of the
land under tillage constituted the only improve-
ments. He erected good frame buildings, and in
time had a valuable farm, upon which he spent his
days in comfort and happiness until he departed
this life in 1853. He was twice married, his sec-
ond marriage being with Betsy Griswold. His
twelve children were the fruit of his first marriage.

Our subject was five years old when he came to
Illinois, and he remembers well the incidents of
pioneer life here in those early days of the settle-
ment of the State. He made his home with his
father until his marriage. Before that time lie had
bought a tract of land in Western Mound Town-
ship, upon which there was a log cabin, and in that
humble abode he and his bride began life together.
His means were very limited, and as a consequence
they had to begin housekeeping on a meagre scale.
The house had but little furniture, and all the
chairs were made by his hand. The young couple
had no stove, and Mrs. Etter did her cooking be-
fore the fire in the fireplace for a number of years.

There were no railways here and the people had to
go to Alton to sell their products, and to obtain
such supplies as were absolutely necessary, for
many articles now considered indispensable were
unknown luxuries to the settlers, who were home-
livers, subsisting on what they could raise on their
farms, and on the wild game that was abundant.
Mrs. Etter was an expert in the use of the spinning
wheel and loom, and made all the cloth needed by
her family.

Mr. Etter resided on the farm in Western Mound
Township a few months after marriage, and then
sold and bought one hundred and twenty acres of
land in South Palmyra Township, going into debt
tor it to the sum of $800. lie hail been reared to
habits of industry, was well-endowed with a capac-
ity for hard and well-directed labor, had an excel-
lent knowledge of agriculture, and he had no diffi-
culty in paving his indebtedness in due time. He
bought other land, and besides owning valuable
property has assisted his children in securing
homes.

November 11, 1814, Mr. Etter was married to
Miss Asbereen Elizabeth Davidson, and in her he
has had a true helpmate. To them have been born
four sons: George, who married Mary C. McCoy,
and has four children; James, who married Julia
E. Richie, and has four children ; Smith, who mar-
ried Julia R. Range, and lias one child; and Elijah,
who married Kate Hulse, and has one son.

Mrs. Etter was born in Barren Count)', Ky.,
May 12, 1824. Her father, Ellis Davidson, is sup-
posed to have been a native of the same State. He
was a son of the Rev. John Davidson, who was
a preachei in the Baptist Church, and was a pioneer
of Greene County, 111.; besides pursuing his sacred
calling, he farmed in Greene County, until his
mortal career was closed in death.

Mrs. Elter's father was reared and married in
Kentucky. He learned the trade of a gunsmith,
and carried it on in his native State until 1828,
when he came to Illinois with his wife and two
children, making the journey overland. He located
in Greene County, of which he thus became a pio-
neer, and he bought a tract of land live miles west
of Greenfield. He built a camp of rails, in which
the family lived a few months until he erected a

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

335

cabin. Wolves were plenty, and used to come
close to the camp and make night hideous with
their howls. Mr. Davidson bought other land, and
furnished all his sons with homes. He spent his
last years in Christian County, and he and his wife
now lie side by side in Grove City Cemetery. The
maiden name of Mrs. Etter's mother was Margaret
Wright. She was a native of Barren County, Ky.,
and a daughter of Thomas Wright.

f[ EYE EILERS, one of the successful and

well-to-do farmers and stock-raisers of this
county, owns and operates a tine farm of
three hundred aud twenty acres on section
30, Cahokia Township. He there has a pleasant
and comfortable home, good farm buildings, the
latest improved machinery and also raises fine
grades of stock. His well-tilled fields present a
neat appearance and there is not a neglected look-
ing corner upon the whole place; everything will
bear the closest inspection which is excellent evi-
dence of the thrift, industry and enterprise of the
owner. He also owns one hundred and twenty
acres of land in Gillespie Township, which is like-
wise under a high state of cultivation. His entire
possessions have been acquired since his arrival in
this county. He first set foot on this soil Novem-
ber 28, 1859, and having no capital had to begin
life here as a farm laborer, but per.-everanec and
economy soon did for him what inheritance does
for many others and he has worked his way up-
ward to an enviable position.

Mr. Eilers was born in East Friesland, in the
province of Hanover, Germany, February 23,
1836, and spent the days of his boyhood and youth
upon the farm of his father, Egge Eilers, who died
when the son was a youth, his death occurring June
9, 1849, at the age of fifty-eight years. He had mar-
ried in Hanover, Miss Ekhoflf Taitze, who lived and
died in her native kingdom, departing this life at
the age of sixty-one years. Both were members of
the Lutheran Church. Iltye Eilers remained at
home until the loth of September, 1859, when on
board the sailing vessel "Albert" he waved an

adieu to his native land and was en route for
America. < >n the 18th of November, the vessel
dropped anchor in the harbor of New Oilcans after
a pleasant ocean voyage of eight weeks, and he
went up the Mississippi to St. Louis, where he
spent one day. Coming on to Alton and across
the country to Gillespie, he has since made his
home in Macoupin County.

Mr. Eilers was united in marriage in this county
with Miss Trientjc Goesmann. a native of Han-
over, Germany, born June 24, 1842. In 1804 she
came to this country landing in New York. By
their union have been born nine children, eight of
whom are still living — Tetteis now deceased; John
resides in St. Louis, Mo.; Edward, William, Jo-
hanna, Jurgen, Heye, Anna andTillieare at home.
Mr. Eilers, his wife and children are members of
the Lutheran Church. In politics he is independent,
voting for the man whom he thinks will best fill
the office, regardless of party affiliations. One of
his chief characteristics is shown by the fact that
during the four years he was working as a farm
hand for M. W. Dorsey, he never lost but half a
day. The same perseverance and fidelity to duty
has marked his entire career, proving important
factors in his success.

"T^HOMAS W. TIIACKER is a gentleman
v who has attained much prominence in the
township in which he resides, because of his
broad intelligence, liberal views, public-spirited
measures and from the fact that in himself he is a
dynamic force stirring others to profitable actions,
lie is the owner and resident on a tine farm located
on section 7, Nilwood Township and the thorough-
ness that characterizes his dealings with mankind
in every-day life is also seen in ever}' feature of his
well-improved and finely-cultivated farm.

Our subject is a son of '/.. Thacker of whom a
sketch appears on another page of this volume.
He was born in North Palmyra Township, Novem-
ber 29, 1844, and was reared to manhood in Ma-
coupin County, there receiving a good common-
school education, after which lie attended Earlham

336

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

College at Richmond, Ind. He is also a graduate
of Jones Commercial College of St. Louis, Mo.
Mr. Thacker absorbed all the benefits that could
be derived from college life and to-day his in-
tellectuality and the advantages that he gained from
his college life arc felt in his intercourse with his
less favored brother farmers.

The young man's sense of patriotism was fired
when the call was made for volunteers to tight for
the old flag. He entered the army August 10, 1862.
joining Company H, of the One Hundred and
Twenty-second Regiment, lie served from that
time until August 1, 1865 when he was discharged
at Springfield, III. That bloody period was im-
pressed upon his mind indelibly by participation in
some of the desperate engagements of the war. He
was at Parker's Roads, Tenn., and at Paducah, Ky.,
also at Town Creek, Ala., Tupelo, Miss., Nashville,
Tenn., and at Ft. Blakely, Ala. After the war was
over and our subject had received his discharge he
returned to bis father's home bis health being
greatly impaired by the privations suffered in the
war.

On March 24, 1867 Mr. Thacker was married
near Gi rani, 111., to Miss Julia A. Lynch, a daughter
of the late Alfred and Elizabeth (Bristow) Lynch.
The lady's family were among the first settlers in
ibis section of the country, coming to this State at
a very early day. They died in Girard Township.
Mrs. Julia Thacker was born in Macoupin County,
November 2, 1847 and here passed the early days
of her childhood. After the marriage of the young
couple they settled a little east of Girard and lived
there for about five years after which they located
on a farm where our subject now lives. He has
improved his place greatly since his advent hither
and has erected good buildings, having a pleasant
home that is delightfully presided over by his cul-
tured and amiable wife. For two years Mr. Thacker
lived in Kansas, this change being made on ac-
count of his health. He returned however to his
farm where he has ever since lived. He now owns
three hundred and eighty acres of good land, to
which he unreservedly gives his attention. He en-
gages in general farming and stock-raising.

The original oi this sketch and his wife are the
parents of six children, they are: Nola E. who is

the wife of Joseph D. Francis; William W. Jennie,
Julia 15., Thomas and John A. Logan. In the fall
of 1890 Mr. Thacker was a candidate for County
Treasurer on the Republican ticket. He was de-
feated by his Democratic opponent, A. Frey. He has
filled the office of Assessor, Collector and School
Trustee. His symathics and vote is with the Re-
publican party. He takes a great deal of interest
in all local affairs, especially in those that promise
material advancement to the locality. Socially
Mr. Thacker is a member of Luke May Meld Post
No. 516, G. A. R., of Girard. He is also a mem-
ber of the Masonic fraternity. Our subject and his
wife are attendants and members of the Baptist
Church, of which body he is Superintendent of the
Sunday-school.

»<*o..(^y><^Q}-o*>-

(IX. JAMES B. WILSON, a sketch of
whose parents appears on another page
of this volume, is a resident farmer and
stock breeder of this county, living in Carl-
inville Township on section 20. He was born in
New York City on the 25th of April, 1840, and
was the second son of a family of ten children.
When six years old he moved with his parents to
Philadelphia, Pa., and three years later he accom-
panied them to Southeastern Iowa, where the fol-
lowing eleven years of his life were passed. When
Hearing his majority bis father gave him the choice
of one hundred and sixty acres of land or a class-
ical education. To a brilliant young man of twen-
ty who had already seen something of the world, a
collegiate course was extremely attractive and with
judgment rare in one of his age, he preferred to
complete bis studies, going to Aurora, III., where
he spent two years in a preparatory school and
entered upon and completed a commercial course
at Wyoming College, Pennsylvania. His thirst
for knowledge led him to Hillsdale College, Mich-
igan, where be consecrated all his energies to his
studies for a period of two years. He wished then
to study law, that with a honorable profession he
might be able to obtain an independent support.
Witli this object in view he entered the law office

i/BRARY
. Of THE
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINGI:

gfrt-a^ VV> Jj^ t uJ^^~

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

:;:;:>

of John E. Rosette in Springfield, this State,
at that time United States District Attorney. In
the meantime, his father, had changed his residence
to Macoupin County and settled in Honey Point
Township, whither after his sojourn in the capital
city Mr. Wilson rested from his arduous studies.
After spending a few months at home, lie improved
a farm of eighty acres in the same township, living
there some five years. His next move was the
purchase of a tract of two hundred acres where
he now resides. He is thoroughly familiar with
all classes of high-grade stock, the breeding of
such occupying the greater part of his time and
care.

Mr. Wilson was married in St. Louis to Miss
Mary M. Eastham, a lady of culture and re-
finement and a member of the Methodist Episcopal
Church. Their children were three in number: Vir-
gil D., Alice E., and Mattie L. Mrs. Wilson's
death occurred in March, 1884. Mr. Wilson mar-
ried in October, 1887, Miss Martha J. Eastham,
a sister of his former wife.

Mr. Wilson was selected to represent the consti-
tuents in the district in which he lives, in the
State legislature of Illinois, in the fall of 1886.
He was the first clerk of Honey Point Township
after its organization. He is identified with the
interests of the Democratic party and has taken an
active part in political questions of the day.

•$s^3»

~»T*~

RANCIS LANCASTER. Among the Brit-
ish-American citizens of Macoupin County,
we are pleased to present to our readers the
portrait and a sketch of the life of that genial and
prominent resident of Bunker Hill Township, who
is so well known in the county as Francis Lancas-
ter. He is a successful and practical farmer and
progressive stock-raiser, and lives on a fine farm
located on sections 1, 2, and 12, of Bunker Hill
Township. This tract comprises eight hundred
acres, most of which is in a fine state of improve-
ment. His handsome, two-story brick residence
and his barns and other farm buildings, are located
on section 1, and have been placed there by Mr.

Lancaster. He has owned and lived on the home-
stead since 1848, and procured most of the land
when it was in its unbroken stale.

Mr. Lancaster did not have a dollar of capital
when he entered this county in 18-11, and has made
his fortune out of the soil by the help of his pluck,
push and perseverance. He came to the United
States in 1841, voyaging on a three mast sailor, the
••Ontario," being on the ocean seven weeks and two
days, and landing in New York City, March 7. It
was three years later before he was able to send
back for his wife and children whom he had left at
the old home. He had, in the meanwhile, earned
the money for their transportation, and to give
them a suitable welcome in the new home. His
wife has ever been a faithful and ellicient helpmate
in his struggle for the attainment of a comfortable
fortune.

Our subject was born August 7, 1H 13, in Buck-
inghamshire, England, and came of a good, old
yeoman family, who were foi generations residents
in that shire. It was there that the father and
mother of our subject lived and died, passing away
after they had both completed the limit of three-
score years anfl ten. The father, Joseph Lancaster,
was a brickniaker and fruit dealer by occupation,
and the mother, Harriet (Downey) Lancaster, was
also of an old English family. She became the
mother of fourteen children, and four of her sons
came to the United States, two of them now hav-
ing died.

Our subject learned the trade of a brickniaker,
anil after he became of age, niarrieda wife in his
native shire. She was Miss Elizabeth Collins, who
was born in 1812 in the same shire; she was reared
there by her parents who came of good old English
stock, and who lived anil died in their native home.
She followed her husband to this country, helped
him to gain the splendid property which he owns
today, and died at her home May 12, 1883. She
was a woman of unusual intelligence and a lively
Christian faith, which was shown forth in a life of
unpretentious goodness. She was brought up in
the church of England, and was always strongly
attached to the Episcopal service.

She was the mother of ten children, four of whom
have passed to the other world. Frank died after

340

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

his marriage, and the birth of his six children. His
wife bore the maiden name of Caroline Hooker,
and is now living in Kansas City, Mo. The others
who died passed away when young. One was an
infant unnamed, and the others were Harriet and
Albert. Those who are living arc as follows: Will-
iam, who took to wife Mary Hovey, and lives at
Girard, where he is a farmer and stock-raiser;
Elizabeth the wife of Henry Wise, a miller at
Bunker Hill; Mary, the wife of Esop Barnes, a
dentist of Girard; John, a farmer in Bunker Hill
Township, who married Hannah Parmetcr; Matilda
the wife of Joseph Barnes, a farmer of Sumner
County. Kan.: the second son, Joseph, is a heavy
stock dealer in St. Joseph, Mo., and married Miss
Mary l'armeter. This valuable family stands high
in the social and industrial circles of Macoupin
County, and its members have done much to de-
velop the resources of this section of the country.

-€-*-§^— *

NDREW J. CRl'M. Among the attractive
farms anil homes of North Palmyra Town-
Si ship, the traveler is sure to notice those
belonging to the gentleman whose name
appears at the head of this sketch. His property is
located on section 20, and bears every mark of the
hand of a thorough and systematic farmer, who
takes pride not only in making his acres yield a
profitable income but also in providing for his
family and his stock, suitable and comfortable ac-
commodations.

The father of our subject, Joseph Crura, was
born in Clark County, Ind., and his mother, Maria
L. Burnett, was a Kentuckian. Their marriage
took place in Macoupin County and they settled
in North Palmyra Township at first but afterward
removed to South Palmyra where they spent the
remainder of their days. Their son Andrew was
one of the older in a large family of children and
was born in South Palmyra Township July 13,
1846, and there was reared to manhood.

September 9, 1873, was the happy wedding day
of Andrew J. Crum and Phoebe E. Allmond,
daughter of Dr. R. J. and Ann G. (Talley) All-

mond. For further historical facts in regard to the
family of this well-known physician we recom-
mend our readers to peruse the sketch of Dr. All-
mond to be found upon another page of this
volume. His daughter Phoebe had her nativity in
Ohio, May 5, 1851.

The young married couple settled at once in
North Palmyra Township, and engaged in farming
which they made their life business. They owned
one hundred and eighty acres upon which they
had erected a good house and made various sub-
stantial improvements. They have been the par-
ents of nine children, namely: Nellie M., Edwin
\\\, Lee IS., Joseph R., Robert R., Golda T., Ola
B., Carl C, and a baby whose name is Glen P.
Two of the sons, Lee and Joseph, died in early
childhood.

The offices of Collector and School Director have
been bestowed upon Mr. Crum. He takes an active
part in political matters, his sympathies and vole
being with the Democratic party. Religious move-
ments find in this couple hearty support, and al-
though they are not united in their church connec-
tion they are in their sympathies id all good works,
Mr. Crum being an active and efficient member of
the Church of Christ and his wife a devoted worker
in the Methodist Episcopal Chinch. This inter-
esting family make a blight spot in the social and
business life of the community in which they re-
side, as they are universally esteemed and justly so.

^^WS?<^^

\f/OHN GELDER. One of the most successful
farmers in Macoupin County and the owner
of one of the most delightful homes in Yir-
den, is the gentleman whose name heads this
sketch. lie is the possessor of thirteen hundred
and ninety five acres of splendid farming lands
located in the counties of Macoupin, Sangamon,
Montgomery and Christian. This property is di-
vided into nine farms which are placed in the hands
of responsible and efficient tenants. He was born
in Chesterfield Township, this county, August II,
1837. His father, Thomas S. Gelder, was born on
a farm near Snaith, Yorkshire, England, and was

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

341

the son of John Gelder, who was engaged in farm-
ing in his native home until 1831. when accompan-
ied by his wife and three of his Ave children, he

emigrated to America and located in Chesterfield
Township on a farm adjoining his son's, where he
died at a ripe old age. His son Thomas had pre-
ceded him to this country. John Gelder, Sr., pro-
ceded at. once to build a home and his log cabin
was at the time of its construetio n the largest log
binding in the county with the exception of the
court house. He died. December 20, 1851, having
passed his three-score years and ten. His wife,
and the grandmother of our subject, bore the mai-
den name of Elizabeth Shearburn. She was born
in England, and died in Chesterfield Township
March 24, 1847. Both she and her husband were
members of the Church of England, and after com-
ing to this country assisted in organizing the Epis-
copal church at Chesterfield, of which John Gelder
was Warden from its organization to the date of
his death.

The father of our subject secured his early edu-
cation in his native shire in England, attending
the common parish schools and also a boarding
school at Whiston. He emigrated to America in
1830, landing at Baltimore July 16. He reached
Greene County, 111., in November of that year and
the following summer he enlisted in the army for
service in the Black Hawk War. Soon after his re-
turn, to Carrollton. Captain Gelder had the pleasure
of welcoming his parents and the other members of
his family. He was shortly afterward naturalized
and was the first person of foreign birth to make
application for citizenship after the organization of
of Macoupin County.

The first wife of Thomas S. Gelder was Ann
Quarton. a daughter of Thomas and Lydia (Juar-
ton, of Yorkshire, England. By this marriage
there were nine children, five of whom are living.
Our subject, Elizabeth Ann, the wife of Lewis Ter-
rel, of Jersey County; Mary Frances, wife of
Charles Lewis; Sarah KUen, now Mrs. F. W. Shear-
bum, and Clara, who married Peter J. Randolph,
of Morrisonville, Christian County. The mother
of these children died, December 12, 1855, at the
age of forty years. Mr. Gelder's second marriage
occured May 14, 1857, to Ruth Louisa Chapin,

daughter of Daniel Chapin. She was born at
Newport, N. IL, and was a lady of more than ordi-
nary culture and refinement. She was a mem-
ber of the first class which graduated from Monti-
cello Seminary, and was for seven years a teacher
in that institution. C'apt. Gelder had the honor
of voting twice for Abraham Lincoln, with whom
he was on terms of personal acquaintance, and
with whom he served in the Black Hawk War. Both
Mr. and Mrs. Gelder have passed away, his death
occurring November 25, 1881.

John Gelder commenced when very young to
assist upon the farm but was also given the best
advantages for obtaining an education. He first
attended the pioneer schools which were taught in
a log school house, the benches upon which he sat
being slabs with pin legs. At one end a board was
placed against the wall, and served as a desk for
the larger scholars, lie advanced his education by
attendance at Chesterfield Seminary and enjoyed
for two years, the privileges of ShurtleS College.
After leaving college he spent fourteen months in
Europe, traveling in England, Holland, Belgium
and France, visiting during 1862 and 1863 all the
principal places of interest in these countries. Re-
turning home in 1863 he went to farming in Ches-
terfield Township.

The marriage of John Gelder and Clara Tolman,
daughter of James Toliuan of Macoupin Count}-,
took place September 11, 1866. The mother of
Mrs. Gelder bore the maiden name of Nancy B. Lor-
ton. After maniagethe young couple mover! to
the farm which they now occupy, which is a fine
tract of one hundred and fort}* acres. Five chil-
dren have blessed their union, namely, Tolman T.,
Charles C, Stella J., Edgar E. and Edith. Tolman
is a graduate of Virden High School, and further
carried on his education at the Illinois State Uni-
versity at Champaign. After this, he entered the
Law Department of the State University ai Ann
Arbor, and was admitted to the bar at the age of
twenty-one years at Lansing, Mich. He is now
associated with ex-Gov. Hamilton of Chicago.
Charles C. is a clerk in the wholesale house of Wil-
son Bros., of Chicago, in the line of gentlemen's
furnishing goods. The three younger children are
still carrying on their education. They, with their

342

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

parents. spent several months in Europe in 1890.
They visited Antwerp, Bru-sels, Cologne, Weisha
den, Frankfort- on-the- Main, Heidelburg, Straus
burg, Paris; and in England, Brighton, London,
York, Liverpool; and crossing into Scotland, the
cities of Glasgow and Edinburg. Mr. Gelder is a
Republican in politics and always takes an interest
in public affairs. He has served for twelve years
as School Trustee, and for two terms as a member
of the County Board of Supervisors. His lands in
Sangamon, Montgomery and Christian Counties,
he bought unimproved, and they now form fine
and valuable farms. Those in Christian are situated
near Ilarvel, on the Wabash railway. His home
has recently been re-built and is now in the best
modern style of architecture and adornment.

— ~g-*$*-2~-

ylLLIAMG. BARTELS. President of the
Carlinville Coal and Mining Company, is
a native of Carlinville and has from his
early manhood been engaged in business here. He
was born March 20, 1858, and received his early
education in the public schools. At the age of
sixteen he entered Blackburn University at Carlin-
ville, where he carried on an advanced course
of study. After leaving school he worked at the
carpenter's trade with his father until 1871, then
assumed supervision of the work at the South Car-
linville coal shaft, of which his father was propri-
etor. Since 1883 he has had full charge of the
business.

As the patronymic indicates, the paternal ances-
tors of our subject came from Germany. His
father and grandfather each bore the name of
Henry and were born in Brunswick. The grand-
father served in the army of the Empire eight
years and with that exception devoted his mature
life to the carpenter's trade. The father of our sub-
ject was the only member of the family who flame
to America. He attended school steadily until he
was fourteen years old and then began to learn the
trade vvith his father. In 1854 he decided to seek
a home in the New World and in October set sail
from Bremen, landing at New Orleans six weeks

.later. He came up to St. Louis, spent a month
there, and then came to Carlinville and began work
at his trade.

Mr. Bartels had left his family in Germany in-
tending if he did not like America to return to
that country. But being pleased with the pros-
pects here he sent for Ihem and was joined by his
wife and four children about a twelvemonth after
his own arrival. He bought a residence and has
continued to live in Carlinville. He followed his
trade some lime and during those years bought
thirty acres of land in the city limits and in 1870
opened a coal mine, which he personally superin-
tended some years. For a few years past he has
been living in retirement, enjoying the fruits of a
well-spent life. He is advanced in years, having
been born April 18, 1816. The lady who became
his wife in 1847 was born February 7, 1820, in the
same locality as he, and bore the maiden name of
Minnie Larke.

William G. Bartels and Emma Singelman were
united in marriage September 13,1883. The bride's
parents, Henry and Louisa Singelman, are natives
of Germany, and were early settlers in Carlinville.
Mrs. Bartels was born here, received a good educa-
tion and careful attention from her parents. To
her and her husband three children have come,
who are named respectively: Eda, Leonora and
Leila. Mr. Bartels has served as Collector of Car-
linsville Township and represented the Second
Ward in the City Council two years. Politically,
he is a Republican. The family, including his par-
ents, belong to the Evangelical Church. They are
classed among the best citizens and have many
friends.

EI^M-

<it IVILLIAM M. JONES, who represents one of
\rs,J/f the oldest families in Illinois and now of
V^\y Honey Point Township, was born in Mad-
ison County, February G, 1818, at which time Ill-
inois was but a territory. His father, Mai tin Jones,
was a Virginian by birth, the son of the Rev. Wil-
liam Jones, who, it is thought, was born in Giles
County, Virginia. The father of the latter, great-

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

343

grandfather of our subject, John Junes, was of Eng-
lish ancestry, and coming from Ireland to America
in Colonial times, he settled in Virginia, where he
passed the remainder of his life. The maiden
name of his wife was Lovina Pruitt.

William Jones, his son, was reared in the
Old Dominion, where he married and went thence
to Tennessee, and from there came to the North-
west Territory, locating in what is now Illinois.
For a short time he resided in that part of the Ter-
ritory now known as Bond County, and thence
went to Madison County and settled on land now
included in Wood River Township, where he
erected a fort known as Jones' Fort. In that early
dnv Indians were vastly more numerous than
whites and had full sway, ofttimes being hostile to
the settlers. For a few years he resided at the fort
and then built a dwelling which continued to be
his home until his death.

The father of cur subject was about twelve years
old when his parents brought him to Illinois.
During the time of the trouble with the Indians he
joined the Rangers and he was also an active par-
ticipant in the Black Hawk War. Upon settling
down he procured a tract of land near the old home
and lived upon it until death closed his earthly ca-
reer. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Mar-
garet Wright, was also born in Virginia, and was
the daughter of Toliver Wright, who was, so far as
known, a native of the same State. He located in
what is now Wood River Township in 1806, being
one of its first settlers. In 1814, on the 10th of
July, Mrs. Reagan, accompanied by six children,
visited his home. Just before night she started
for her home and the mother of our subject set out
with her. As Mrs. Jones afterward expressed it,
Divine Providence seemed to have interposed in
her behalf, for all at once she was prompted to re-
turn home. In less than five minutes she heard
gun shots, which told only too plainly of the mas
Bacre of Mrs. Reagan and her children, not one of
whom was left to tell the terrible tale of that cruel
slaughter. Mrs. Jones had escaped miraculously
from one of the most brutal massacres in the his-
tory of the Northwestern Territory. Her mar-
riage to Mr. Jones was contracted in 1814 and of
their union there were nine children. .She was a

devoted member of the United Baptist Church, in
which faith she reared her family. Mrs. Jones
died August 11, 1861, at the ripe age of eighty-
three years.

The early life of our subject was passed in his
native county. In his youthful days the schools
were taught on the subscription plan, each family
paying for tuition according to the number of chil-
dren sent. The people lived principally from the
products of the farm and by hunting and fishing.
There was no scarcity of game, deer, wild turkeys,
bears and wolves abounding and having free range
of the country. St. Louis was then a small place,
in fact, at the time of our subject's birth was but a
trading post. In common with the other women
of that day, Mrs. Jones used to card, spin and
weave all the cloth used by the family. Mr.
Jones continued to live in Madison County the
greater part of the time until 1866, when he came
to this county and bought his present desirable
farm in Honey Point Township, where he has ever
since lived in comfort and prosperity. He has one
hundred and three acres.

Mr. Jones was first married in Bond County, to
Elizabeth P. Jones, a native of that county. She
died in Honey Point Township. July 28, 1882,
leaving two children, Emanuel and Melinda A.
Emanuel is the father of two children, Mary A.
and Robert L. Melinda is the wife of G. B. Ash-
ton and has four children: Janetta, Magnolia, Car-
rie A. and Lena Belle.

Mr. Jones' second marriage took place in May,
1885, at which time he was wedded to Mrs. Jtdia
Pauline (Powers) Karnes. She was born in Greene
County, Tenn., October 1, 1839, a daughter of
Benjamin and Cynthiana (Gower) Powers. She
was reared in her native county and when eighteen
years old accompanied her parents to their new
home in this county. She was married in 1860 to
William Karnes. He was a native of this county,
born May 30, 1832, son of Peter and Sarah A. (Proc-
tor) Karnes, who were natives of Kentucky. From
that State they went to Indiana ami thence coming
to Illinois, were pioneers of Macoupin County.
They settled in Cahokia Township, where the
father took up Government land, improved a farm
and made his home as long as he lived. His son

344

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

William \v:is brought up on that farm. He learned
the trade of a house-painter, which he followed in
this county until 1878, when he went to South-
western Missouri, where he remained four years.
Returning to this county at the expiration of that
time, he soon after died at his father's home. By
her first marriage Mrs. Jones has two children liv-
ing, Oscar A. and Thomas Frederick.

In Mr. Jones Honey Point Township finds a
worthy citizen, who lives an upright life and is ac-
corded full respect by all who know him. He is an
earnest worker in the United Baptist Church, of
which he has been a member forty years, and ev-
ery project tending to uplift the people and ad-
vance the cause of Christianity has in him a liberal
supporter.

ANIEL E. WITT, a well-known citizen
residing upon section 28, Polk Township,
is the son of the late James S. Witt who
was born in Tennessee. Mrs. James S.
Witt bore the maiden name <>f Elizabeth Wagner,
who is a native of Madison County, HI. They
first settled in Hilyani Township, and afterward
removed to Polk Township, where they ended
their days, Mrs. Witt dying in 1877 and her hus-
band in July, 1888. They had two children, Dan-
iel E. and James T.

The subject of this sketch was born in Polk
Township, this county, July 12, 1857. Here he
grew to manhood and received thorough training
in farm duties and the benefit of a common school
education. His native township has been his resi-
dence through life and he has followed farming as
a vocation and now owns two hundred and forty
acres of fine land.

Mr. Witt was married at Carlinville, III.. Octo-
ber 11, 1877, to Miss Martha E. Stewart, daughter
of Robert and Sarah (Barnes) Stewart. The father
was born in Tennessee and the mother is a native
of the Prairie State. She died in Honey Point
Township in April, 1884. Mrs. Witt who was the
fourth in a family of seven children, was born in
Morgan County, 111.. November 20, 1858.

Three children have come to bless the home of our
subject, James R., William E. and Grover C. The
name of the youngest son of this family tells the
story of the father's political preferences, as can
easily be seen his convictions have led him into
the Democratic party with which he votes and
works. His fellow-citizens have placed him in the
position of Supervisor of Polk Township, in which
office he began to serve in the spring of 1890.

AMES TUCKER, who is engaged in gen-
eral farming and stock-raising on section
16, Brighton Township, is a native of Eng-
land, born in Somersetshire, on the 15th of
March, 1846, and the only son of James and Betsy
(Browning) Tucker, who were also natives of
Somersetshire, and came of pure English stock,
their ancestors having for generations resided in
that locality. In the county of their nativity they
were reared and James Tucker became a mason,
following that occupation until his death. He died
when a young man only a few months after his
marriage and before the birth of their only child,
our subject. His widow was afterward again mar-
ried in her native county to William Eddmgton
who was also born and grew to manhood in Somer-
setshire. Soon after their nuptials were celebrated
and when our subject was only a year old, Mr. am
Mrs. Eddingtou crossed the Atlantic to the United
States and came on at once to Macoupin County,
111., locating in Brighton Township, where the deatl
of Mr. Eddingtou occurred when in the prime of
life. Mrs. Eddington was a third time married to
a brother of her second husband, Samuel Edding-
ton, who after some years also passed away. She
survived him until she had attained the age of
fifty-eight years. By her second marriage she hac
three children and unto the last union were bori
five children. The mother and her family were
all Methodists and she was a lady of many excel-
lencies of character.

James Tucker, whose name heads this sketch,
has practically spent his entire life in this county
where his education was acquired in the public

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

345

schools which lie attended (luring llic winter
months, working upon the farm during the remain-
der of the year. After he had attained to years of
maturity he was united in man iage with Miss Anna
Lee, who was born in this county in 1857, and
here passed the days of her girlhood, while she too
was educated in the common schools. She is the.
second daughter and third child of Joseph Lee,
whose sketch appears elsewhere in this volume.
I'nto Mr. and Mrs. Tucker has been given an inter-
esting family, numbering six children, three sons
and three daughters, as follows: Allen E., James,
Betsy, Mary, Emma and Joseph F. The family circle
still remains unbroken and all are yet under the
parental roof.

The farm upon which Mr. Tucker now resides
has been his home for two years. It comprises one
hundred and fifty-nine acres of valuable land, the
greater part of which is under a high state of
cultivation. It is well supplied with good build-
ings for the care and shelter of his stock. The
fields are well tilled and the place presents a neat
appearance which indicates the thrift and enterprise
of the owner. The slock which he raises is all of
good giades, no inferior animals being seen upon
the farm and he may well be numbered among the
leading agriculturists of (he community. In poli-
tics he is a stalwart Republican and is a stanch ad-
vocate of the principles which he has long support-
ed and upheld by his ballot. Mr. Tucker and his
wife attend the Episcopal Church.

OHX B. MASTERS is a descendant of son>e
of the earliest pioneer families of Illinois,
and is one of the native-born citizens of this
State who lias materially assisted in its agri
cultural development. For many years he was
actively identified with the farmers of this county,
"owning and managing very profitably a large and
well-improved farm. January 8, 1825, is the date
of the birth of our subject in the pioneer home of
his parents, fifteen miles northeast of the city of
Jacksonville, in Morgan County. His father was
William I. Masters, a native of South Carolina

whose father is thought to have been bom in Wales
or to have been a native of this country, but of
Welsh parentage. He spent his last years in the
Palmetto State, after having served faithfully as a
soldier during the Revolution.

William I. Masters grew to manhood in his na-
tive State, and when about twenty-five years of
age emigrated to Illinois in 1817 in the Territorial
days of the State, accompanying a neighboring fam-
ily hither, the removal being made with a team.
He first settled for a time in Sangamon County,
but after marriage took up his abode on a forty-
acre tract of Government land in Morgan County.
Someone unknown to him entered the land, and
being thus deprived of his claim in 1827 he lo-
cated on Government land that lay on both sides
of the line between Morgan and Macoupin Counties.
That part of his homestead in this county was situ-
ated in what is now North Palmyra Township and
he was one of the pioneer settlers of this section,
building a log house on the Morgan County side
of the line. Not a nail entered into the construc-
tion of that dwelling, and he rived the shingles by
hand for the roof, hewed puncheon for a floor, split
boards for the door, which was provided with
wooden hinges, and the chimney was made with
sticks and mud. At that time the people were
home-livers, subsisting on the products of their
farms. The father of our subject raised sheep and
also planted flax and hemp, and the mother used to
card, spin and weave the wool and the fibre of the
flax and hemp to make cloth for garments for her
children. There were no railways in this part of
the country for years, and for some time the father
of our subject used to market his grain at St. Louis
with ox-teams. His busy life was terminated by
his death on his homestead in 1840.

The mother of our subject bore the maiden name
of Nancy Jones, and she was a native of Kentucky.
Her father, Clayborn Jones, was also a native of
that State and was of Welsh descent. In the year
1800 he emigrated from his old home to the wilds
of that part of the Northwestern Territory now
embraced in Illinois, and was one of the first perm-
anent settlers of the commonwealth. He secured
a tract of timber land fifteen miles west of Spring-
field and resided upon it until his demise in 1840,

346

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

li is wife also flying there. The mother of our sub-
ject died on the home farm on the county line, 1838.
The parents of our subject reared four children,
named as follows: Bets}', John B., Melissa and
Phebe Ann. They were young when their parents
died, and as John was the only son the care of his
sisters devolved upon him and nobly did he
shoulder his burden, supporting himself and them
by working out by the month. In the fall of 1845
he went to Southwestern Missouri and renting land
put in a crop in the spring of 1846. He soon sold
his crop and returning to Illinois worked for a time
near Carlinville. We next hear of him at Shaw's
Point Township, where he was employed by the
month for two years, and during that time saved
money enough to buy a team. After that he was
enabled to enter eighty acres of land on section 2,
Honey Point Township. He built a small frame
house thereon, and resided there three years.
Meanwhile he bought other land adjoining his first
purchase and erected a dwelling on the line be-
tween Honey Point and Shaw's l'oint, the house
lying in both townships. As there were not people
enough between his residence and Litchfield to or-
ganize a school district he decided to declare Honey
Point Township his residence instead of Shaw's
Point Township on account of its superior educa-
tional facilities. He has been very successful as a
farmer and at one time owned five hundred acres
of fine land, a part of which he has since deeded to
his children. In 1891 he bought a residence at
Carlinville, and now lives retired from active labor,
enjoying an income ample for all his wants.

May 3, 1846, our subject took unto himself a
wife in the person of Miss Nancy Sims, a daughter
of James and Margaret (Robinson) Sims, and a
native of this county, born April 3, 1826. The
following are the children that have been born to
Mr. and Mrs. Masters: James and John, dow de-
ceased; Melissa A., wife of Andrew Robinson, of
Honey Point; Telitha M. and Margaret, both of
whom are deceased; Charles, a resident of Shaw's
Point Township; Emma, deceased; Kattie and.
Myrta who are at home; Philui Jane, wife of Dr.
Buttington, of Atwater, and Henry I. who lives in
Honey Point Township.

Mr. Masters is a man of self-respecting character,

is well dowered wilii those qualities necessary to
success in life and to secure the confidence of others
and no one is more deserving of trust and esteem
than he. His fellow-citizens have recognized his
worth and capability, and have called him to im-
portant offices. He served many years as School
Director and Highway Commissioner and repre-
sented Honey Point Township on the County
Board of Supervisors at the time the county debt
was funded. His political sentiments are in accord
with the policy of the Democratic party.

II ARLES TOWSE, a resident of Bird Town-
ship and a brother of the Hon. W. A. Towse,
is a son of Simpson Towse, an Englishman
from Yorkshire. The mother of these gentlemen
was Ann Kettlewood, who was also a native of the
same shire, where she was born in 1799. When
they emigrated to America in 1850 they first made
their home in Oriskany, N. Y., where they lived
about two years and in 1853 came to Illinois and
settled in Macoupin County. They lived in Ches-
terfield and Bird Townships. Mrs. Towse was
bereaved of her husband in the fall of 1865 and
she lived until January 14, 1886, when her days
ended in Western Mound Township. They had a
fine family of nine children who were born in Eng-
land, seven sons and two daughters. The subject
of this sketch was the sixth in order of age. His
birth look place in Yorkshire, England, February
24, 1834.

Charles Towse passed his boyhood days on a
farm in Yorkshire, and came with his parents to
America. He continued with them until he mar-
ried in Macoupin Count)-, when he made his home
in this county and resided here from that day to
this. He has always followed agricultural pursuits
anil now owns three hundred and ninety acres.
I' pon this property is erected an attractive and
commodious home and good farm buildings, in-
cluding large barns.

February 22, 1859, was the wedding day of
Mr. Towse and Miss Louisa Dews, a daughter of

ilBRART
Of THE

UNfVtRSITy OF ILUNOir

WZJ^tf

7&U*(

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

349

John and Sylvia (Morris) Dews. The marriage
took place in Western Mound Township where the
bride resided. The father was born in Yorkshire,
England, and the mother was also a native of that
Island. They both came to this country when
young and were married in Alton, III. They made
their home in Western Mound Township for many
years and there Mr. Dews passed away from earth.
His widow who survives is making her home with
her children by whom she is truly honored and
cherished.

Of a large family of nine children, Mrs. Towse
was the second. She was born in Western Mound
Township, December 9, 1840. The first home of
this young wedded couple was in that township.
After a residence there of seven years they came to
Bird Township, where they have since resided.
Seven children crown this union, namely: Selina
A., Albert W., John D., Annette, Lillie M., Abiah
S. and Annie E. Selina is now the wife of Wil-
man E. Haley, and Annette is Mrs. Leonard E.
Leach, while Albert has married Miss Ella M. Hun-
ter. The father of this family has ever taken a
deep interest in educational matters and is now
serving on the School Board. He has always act-
ively promoted all efforts to improve the district
schools. His political views and his vote are with
the Republican part}-. Both he and his good wife
are earnest and efficient members of the Methodist
Episcopal Church and they have ever contributed
liberally in all church affairs.

^W-fE^^^

v ETER E. AHRENS, senior member of the
j|i firm of Ahrens Bros., lumber dealers of
Staunton, and a representative of one of the
early families of the county, was born in
the city which is yet his home January 25, 1804,
lie is a son of John M. Ahrens, a pioneer merchant
and prominent citizen, who is now living a retired
life. He was carefully reared, and in the common
schools began his education, which was completed
in the commercial department of the college of
Warrentown, Mo. He was graduated in the Class

of '80, when sixteen years of age and carried off
m cond honors.

Since that time Mr. Ahrens has been actively en-
gaged in business and is now at the head of the
oldest and largest lumber interest of Staunton. His
father established a lumber yard in 18C7, the first
in the place and operated it on his own account un-
til 1883, when he associated with him his sons, J. C.
and P. F. Together they carried on operations un-
der the firm name of John M. Ahrens & Sons for a
short time, when the father and J. C. established a
yard in Worden, Madison County, of which the lat-
ter had the management and soon became sole pro-
prietor. He sold out in 1887, and is now doing a
good business in the same line in Rivenjale III.

From 1884, until October, 1887, the father and
our subject was associated in the management of the
yard at Staunton, but at the last-named date John
Ahrens withdrew and a partnership was formed be-
tween the brothers P. E. and A. E. which has con-
tinued to the present. This yard has every little
opposition. One firm which established business
was bought in 1881, and another in 1885, eacli
having existed only a short time. The present
business of Ahrens Bros, is located on the half block
of which they became owners ftt the lime of their
first purchase in 1881. They are dealers in all
kinds of pine lumber for house-building purposes
and all other building materials.

In St. Louis, Mo., May 1G, 1890, Mr. Ahrens was
married to Miss Gertrude Jacobs, who was born
in La Grange, Mo., in 1869. When quite young
she removed to St. Louis with her parents who are
still living in that city, and there she was educated
and grew to womanhood, remaining under the par-
ental roof until her marriage. The young couple
take a prominent part in social and religious inter-
ests. They are both active members of the Pres-
byterian Church, in which Mr. Ahrens now holds
the office of Elder and Sunday-school Superinten-
dent, having filled the latter position for eight
years. He is one of the leading business men of
Staunton and in connection with the interests be-
fore mentioned he is the present Secretary of the
Retail Lumber Association which was organized in
Springfield in June, 1890, he being one of the prime
movers of the affair. For two years previous he

350

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

had beeu a Director of the National Association of
Lumber Dealers. One of the public spirited and
progressive young men of this community, he man-
ifests a commendable interest in all things pertain-
ing to its good, and is a worthy and valued citizen
The attention of the reader is invited to a litho-
graphic portrait of Mr. Ahrens, presented in con-
nection witli his biographical sketch.

— -i-+-£=^*^=4-«~*—

\/\ RS. ELIZABETH SHUTT, one of the most

prominent, wealthy and influential women
h of Yirden Township, resides on section 2,
where her excellent farm and pleasant
home are an attractive spot to every passer-by. Her
business ability and true womanliness, added to her
neighborly kindness and hospitality, give to her a
popularity which is broad and enduring. Her
father was the late Thomas Baldwin, a native of
Ohio, and her mother bore the maiden name of
Anna Stonebrakep, and was also a native of Ohio,
where she was united in marriage to Mr. Baldwin.
After marriage this couple settled in Montgomery
County, Ind.. but early in the '50s they left that
State and emigrated to Illinois, where they settled
in Greene County, for four years. They then re-
moved to Sangamon County, where they spent the
remainder of their earthly career.

Elizabeth Baldwin was the third child in a fam-
ily of five sons and five daughters, and was born in
Montgomery County, Ind., July 21, 1834. She
came to Illinois with her parents and here met the
gentleman to whom she was afterward united in
marriage. She was married in Carlinville, III.,
April 10, 1856, to John II. Shutt, a son of Jacob
and Elizabeth (_ Wagner) Shutt, who were murried
in Kentucky, and emigrated to Illinois, settling in
Sangamon County. They made their home in San-
gamon County until the death of Jacob Shutt and
somewhat later his bereaved widow passed away
while visiting a daughter in Yirden.

John H. Shutt was born in Kentucky, January
29, 1822, and was seven years old when his parents
emigrated to Illinois. Being so young at that time
he called himself a thorough Illinoisian, as he here

received his education and training for life's du-
ties. After his marriage he resided for several
months in Sangamon County, and then removed
to Macoupin County, making his home where his
widow now resides, on section 2. Virden Township.
Here he was actively engaged in farming until his
death, which occurred April 1, 1872.

Mrs. Shutt is the mother of seven children, all of
whom are living and have taken their places with
credit in the community. They are as follows:
Eliza A., who is the wife of John A. Lotion; Will-
iam A.; George W., who took to wife Ettie Huston;
Elizabeth J., who is the wife of Calvin E. Stowe:
John E., who married Miss Martha J. Woodman;
Sarah F., who is the wife of Henry Knoll, and
Thomas J.

This estimable lady, is, with the assistance
of her unmarried sons, carrying on the farm
to the best advantage, and she has kept it in
excellent condition since it has come into her
hands. Upon it she has a fine set of farm build-
ings. Her home is delightful, and within its walls
she exercises the graces of hospitality. The barns
and outbuildings are finely adapted to farm pur-
poses and her stock is in a good condition and
well cared for. Her sons are carrying out well the
fine reputation which was left them as a heritage by
their father, a reputation for integrity, fair dealing,
and reliability.

-£g*S*

ON. WATSON A. TO WSE, who resides on
section 2, Polk Township, is one of the
prominent and honored residents of Macou-
lfe>) pin County. For the history of his parents
and ancestry the reader will kindly consult the
sketch of his brother, Charles Towse, which ap-
pears in this Record. This son was the youngest
of his father's family and was born in Yorkshire,
England, November 2, 1843. He was but a little
lad of seven years when his parents emigrated to
America and he was nine years old when he made
his entrance into this country. Here he grew to
manhood and became one of the favorite sons of
that section.

Like many another adapted son of America,

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

351

young Towse sprang to the help of the Union flag
when it was assailed, and enlisted October 27, 1861,
in Company C, Thirty-second Illinois Infantry.
He served three years under the stars and stripes,
and took active part in the following engagements:
Pittsburg Landing, siege of Corinth, siege of
Vicksburg and Atlanta. At Pittsburg Landing he
was severely wounded in the left knee. At Vicks-
burg he received in his left arm a bullet which
still remains. At Nickajaek, Ga., he was wounded
by a shell in the left hip. He was detailed for
quite a long time as Ward Master in the Overton
Hospital in Memphis, Tenn. When he was mus-
tered out of the service he returned to his old
home in Bird Township.

Experience in the field of war, only made this
young hero appreciate more keenly the J03'S of
home life, and he now decided to establish a home
of his own. He chose as his wife Miss Ann
M or foot, daughter of Richard and Isabella Mor-
foot, both natives of Yorkshire, England, in which
section of the British Isles the lady herself was
born. The marriage took place on May 27, 1867.
After marriage the young couple made their home
on section 2, Polk Township, where they have since
continued in the pursuit of agriculture, making
permanent and valuable improvements on the
farm.

Mr. Towse had always been truly interested in
State as well as local political movements and has
cultivated a broad outlook upon the affairs of
the State and Nation. He had often been called to
serve i;i local offices of trust and in the fall of
1888 he was elected to the Illinois State Legisla-
ture, where he served for the full terra. He has
held the office of Supervisor of Polk Township, for
several years, being Chairman, of the County Board
of Supervisors for two terms; also Justice of the
Peace, which office he still holds. He has also acted
as Assessor and Collector, and ever since leaving the
army has taken an active part in political affairs,
being a member of the Republican party and having
for some time belonged to the County Central
Committee of that part)-. He is identified with the
Grand Array of the Republic and is also a mem-
ber of the Farmers' Mutual Benefit Association.
He is wide awake to the necessity of promoting the

interests of the farming community and takes great
pride in his farm of one hundred and sixty acres.
Take him all in all he is one of the most thor-
oughly representative men of Macoupin County
and with his intelligent and amiable wife isapower
in the community. They are earnest and active
members of the Methodist Episcopal Church in
which he has filled important offices.

APT. JOSEPH F. BALLINGER, now

deceased, was born January 11, 1812, Gar-
J JJ raid County, Ky., and died at his home in
Brighton, on the 16th of February, 1882. He was
one of the leading citizens of the community and a
man held in high esteem by all who knew him. In
the State of his nativity he was reared to manhood,
the days of his boyhood and youth being passed in
the usual manner of farmer lads. During the
summer season lie worked upon the farm and in
the winter he attended school. When twenty-
seven years of age he left Kentucky ami came to
Illinois, being accompanied by his father, Henry
Ballinger. They resided in Fayette, 111., where
the death of the father later occurred. The Cap-
tain went to Greene County, 111., where he became
acquainted with and wedded Miss Mary F. Peter,
who was born in Newcastle, Ky., June 28, 1823.
For mention of her family see the sketch of Daniel
Blodgett on another page of this work. When a
child of eight summers she was brought by her
parents to Illinois, the family locating-in Godfrey,
Madison County, where they resided for ten years
and then removed to a farm in Greene County.

Captain and Mrs. Ballinger began their domestic
life on a farm near Dover, Greene County, where
they resided for many years, so developing ami
improving their one hundred and sixty acres until
it was called one of the finest farms in that county.
At length, having acquired through his individual
efforts and the assistance of his estimable wife a
comfortable competence, C'apt. Ballinger resolved
to lay aside business cares and in the fall of 1875
they went, to Brighton, where he lived in quiet
retirement, enjoying the fruits of his labors until

352

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

called to the home beyond. Many friends mourned
1 1 is loss and in ti is death the county lost one of its
best citizens, the church a faithful member and his
wife a loving and tender husband. He was prom-
inent in public affairs and in politics supported the
Wiiig party until its dissolution, when he became
an advocate of Demociatic principles. He was a
consistent and faithful member of the Christian
Church and it was his daily endeavor to follow in
the footsteps of the Master. He won his title
while serving in the home militia in Kentucky,
being commissioned Captain by Gov. French ami
his rank was afterward recognized on account of
his proficient skill and faithful service as one of
the Home Militia in Illinois.

Mrs. Ballinger still survives her husband and
yet resides in Brighton in the pleasant home left
her by the Captain. The properly which lie ac-
quired informer years is amply sufficient to supply
all her wants. She loo is a member of the Chris-
tian Church and is a noble woman whom all esteem
for her many excellencies of character. Generous
and free-hearted, charitable and benevolent, she
has won many friends.

#>^

-V-

p^ERRIN

J) County
■r Ihroiiiji

^p%ERRIN KENT, an old settler of Macoupin
ty who is well and favorably known
;hout Virden Township, had his i a-
tivity in Stock Township. Harrison County,
Ohio, February 3, 1835. His father, so far as is
known, was. a native of the same Stale, and thc-
grandfather, Absalom, (a native of Pennsylvania)
was one of the pioneers of Ohio, who resided upon
a farm in that State for many years. From there
he came to Illinois about the year 1830, and set-
tling in Macoupin County, bought land west of
Carlinville. He was very successful in the conduct
of his affairs and eventually owned large tracts of
land in different parts of the county. After the
death of his beloved and faithful wife he made his
residence with his children and his last days were
passed in Chesterfield.

The father of our subject received his early ed-
ucation and training in Ohio, and resided there

for several years after his marriage. It was in
1 838, when accompanied by his wife and five child-
ren, he came to Illinois, traveling by way of the
Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. He located first in
Knox County, 111., and lived there for two years
before coming to Macoupin County. He became
one of the first settlers of Virden Township, mak-
ing his home upon a tract of land given him by
his father on section 1 8.

At the time of this settlement the country was
sparsely settled and deer and other kinds of wild
game abounded, and where Girard and Virden now
stand the land was owned hy the Government. He
improved his farm and resided upon it until about
the year 1863, when he sold this property and
bought land in North Otter Township, where he
resided until called hence by death. His wife's
maiden name was Diana Hevlin. She was of Ohio
parentage and birth, her father being Isaac Hevlin.
She died on the home farm in Virden Township,
leaving her family to greatly mourn her loss as her
faithful devotion and loveliness ef character had
greatly impressed her life upon theirs.

When three years old Perrin Kent first came to
' Illinois with his parents and although he was only
five years of age when he first saw Macoupin
County he remembers well the incidents of pioneer
life here. He received the education granted in
the pioneer schools and the faithful home training
of the domestic circles, and resided under the par-
ental roof until he reached the age of eighteen
after which he traveled for awhile. In 18G3 he
settled upon the farm which lie now owns upon
section 18, Virden Township.

In 1800 Mr. Kent was happily united in marriage
with Martha A. Writers who was born in Jessa-
mine County, Ky., and is a daughter of Noble P..
and Elizabeth (Davis) Walters, natives of Ohio
and Virginia respectively, who came to Illinois
about the year 1845. They settled in Sangamon
County, making their residence there for some
3'ears. The father died while on business in Mc-
Lean County, Illinois. The mother passed- away
after coming to Virden Township. Of the child-
ren who came to share the love and care of Mr.
and Mrs. Kent two only are living, Noble A. and
Willie. Our subject is truly interested in national

RESIDENCE OF JOHN G. H AGLER , SEC16. .NORTH OTTER TR, MACOUPIN CO., ILL.

& *$mt

RESIDENCE OF PERRIN KENT , SEC. 18. ,VI RDEN TR , M ACOU PI N CO., ILL.

>'.>

UBRAflV
OF T«?

tlV'VERSITY OF ILL

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD

355

affairs ami keeps himself well informed in regard
to political movements. Mis convictions have led
him to ally himself with the Republican party
with whom he casts his vote and influence.

A view of Mr. Kent's attractive home is shown
in connection with his biographical sketch.

<il/OHN G. IIAGLER. One of the most hos-
pitable homes in North Otter Township is
the beautiful one presided over by the wife
j of the gentleman whose name appears at the
head of this sketch. They are people of more than
ordinary qualities, intelligent and with a rich fund
of information on all subjects of interest. The su-
perior abilities of Mr. Hagler make him a man of
note in the county, and his long residence here
has put him in the way of making a broad ac-
quaintance which gives him extensive influence.
His father, Benjamin J. Hagler, was born in North
Carolina in 1791, and his mother, Elizabeth Gra-
ham, a native of the same Stale, was born in 1 788.

When Benjamin was but thirteen years old his
father, John Hagler, St'., removed from North Car-
olina to Tennessee, settling in Stewart County.
Here the boy grew to manhood and in Todd
County, Ky., he found the lady whom lie made his
wife. It was there they settled and made their
home until 1817, when the}' emigrated to Madison
County, 111., which remained their place of resi-
dence until they were called hence by death. His
wife died about 18G1, and he followed her to the
better world some five years later.

He of whom we write was among the older ones
in a large family of children, seven sons and seven
daughters, and his birthplace was Todd County,
Ky. Here he made his advent, November 26, 1816,
and was therefore about a year and a half old
when his parents removed to Illinois. In the Prai-
rie State he received his education and his practical
training upon the farm, both of which he fully
improved and thus obtained a foundation for the
noble and intelligent manhood, which is his to-day.
He remained in Madison County until he was about
twenty-two years old when he made the removal

which proved permanent and settled on section 16,
North Otter Township, .Macoupin County. Agri-
cultural pursuits was his early choice for a life
work and he has carried on fanning and stock-
raising most successfully and prudently through -
• hi i life.

The marriage of John (i. Hagler and Miss Eliza-
beth Steveson look place in North Otter Town-
ship November 15, 1838, and thus began a life of
more than ordinary domestic happiness and pros-
perity. This lady was also a native of Todd
County, Ky., being born there in 1818. To her
were born six children, all but one of whom grew
to years of maturity. Little Martha, the youngest,
was snatched from the arms of her parents at the
age of four years and Elizabeth, the third child,
died when a beautiful young lady of twenty years
old. James G. lived to be thirty-six years old,
and John F,, who was a member of the One Hun-
dred aui^TWnty-second Illinois Infantry, died at
Jackson, Tenn.,-<f«o#bwounds received at the bat-
tle of Parker's Cross Roads. Two useful and
prosperous sons now survive, and have established
homes for themselves in North Otter Township,
namely: Benjamin, who married Miss Sarah Al-
deison, and Harvey T., who took to wife Miss Mi-
nerva Young. Mrs. Elizabeth Hagler died August
15, 1854.

The second marriage of Mr. Hagler look place
in North Otter Township November 23, 1854, and
at that time Sarah J. Wilson became his wife. She
was the mother of three children: William B. ;
who married Miss Susan Gunn and resides in Ne-
braska. Sarah Emeline, who is the wife of Will-
iam Goocli, and Hiram, who died in infancy. The
mother of these children was called away from her
family by death, March 10, 1SG3.

Our subject was again married in North Palmyra
Township, November, 1!). 1864, to Miss Sarah T.
Young, who was born in Morgan County, this
Slate. November 7, 1827, They have had two chil-
dren, one of whom has died. The surviving son,
Wallace ('.. is a farmer at home and has married
Miss Julia E. Steele. The high esteem in which
Mr. Hagler is held by his friends and neighbors is
shown by the responsible position in which he has
been placed. For a term of sixteen years he has

356

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

held the onerous post of School Treasurer and lias
performed the duties incident to that office in such
a way as to still further enhance his reputation for
integrity and honorable dealing, lie has also been
School Director for a long term of years and in this
way has done much to advance the educational in-
terest of the township, and to place the schools
upon a substantial and progressive basis. As Su-
pervisor of North Otter Township for four terms
he has done excellent service and given genuine
satisfaction to those who have placed him in oflice.
He has ever taken an active part in political affairs
and is a strong Jacksonian Democrat, faithfully
upholding the principles of that party.

Mr. Hagler has been a member of the Methodist
Church for fifty years and in its service and ordi-
nances he has been faithful and consistent. Mrs.
Hagler is also an earnest and active member of the
same church. Upon his beautiful farm of two hun-
dred and five acres, this progressive farmer has
erected a tine set of buildings. On another page
of this volume appears a view of his delightful
home. His barns are well arranged and thoroughly
constructed, and the outbuildings in general, .is
well as the fences and fields show the hand of a
systematic and painstaking agriculturist.

OSEPH F. CLARK. Among the repre-
sentative farmers of Macoupin County is
this gentleman, who is the owner of a fine,
large farm on section 36, Brushy Mound
Township. He has erected a commodious brick
house, frame barn and other outbuildings, replete
with modern improvements, and surrounded with
well-kept grounds, beautiful shade and fruit trees,
the place presents a most pleasing appearance indi-
cative of the enterprise and progressive spirit of the
proprietor.

A native of Logan County, Ky., Mr. Clark was
born December 4, 1825. His father, Samuel B.
Clark, was, it is thought, a native of the same State,
and his father was a pioneer of Logan County,
where he resided many years, coming thence to
Illinois, where he spent his last years with his chil-

dren. His son Samuel was reared and married in
Kentucky, and lived there until 1828, when, ac-
companied by his wife and eight children, he
started for Illinois. Their mode of conveyance
was by wagons, one being drawn by oxen, and the
other by one horse. They brought all their house-
hold goods with them, and camped by the way at
nightfall. Mr. Clark first located one and one-half
miles from Edwardsville, where he rented land for
one year, then removed into that town and engaged
in teaming, residing there until 1832, when he re-
moved to a farm a mile and a half west of Brighton,
which he rented for a ) ear. He then bought a
tract of wild land in the same locality, and built a
hewn log house, splitting shakes for the roof. In
1835 he sold that and removed to a farm near Car-
linvilleon which he lived one year, and in 1836
settled in Brush}' Mound Township.

At that early day wild game was to be had in
abundance, deer and turkeys being very plentiful.
There was then no railway here and Alton and St.
Louis were the nearest markets for supplies. In
this section the gristmills were mostly operated by
oxen. The wives and mothers did their full share
towards lightening the labors of the sterner sex
and the spinning wheel and loom were in constant
requisition. The mother of our subject dressed
her children in homespun cloth that was the pro-
duct of her own deft hand.

In Brushy Mound Township the father purchased
one hundred and twenty acres of land on section
26, forty acres of which were under improvement,
and a log house was standing thereon. On this
place he resided the remainder of his life, passing
away in 1840, leaving a worthy record as a useful
pioneer and a good citizen in every way. His wife,
who bore the maiden name of Elizabeth Floyd,
survived him only one year. She was born in
Pennsylvania, and is thought to have been of (Ger-
man ancestry. She was the mother of eight chil-
dren, of whom these are the names: Mary Mar-
garet, James II., Robert B., John J., Benjamin F.,
Joseph F., Samuel N. and Susan B.

Joseph Clark was but two years old when his
parents brought him to Illinois, and he was reared
in this State under pioneer influences to be self-
reliant, manly and capable of doing any and all

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

357

kinds of work that fell to his share as a farmer's
boy. His education was received in the primitive
schools of the early years of the settlement of
Illinois that were taught in log houses, and pro-
vided with rude, home-made furniture, the seats
being made by splitting saplings and hewing one
side smooth, and inserting wooden pins for legs.
Each family paid for tuition according to the num-
ber of scholars that it sent, there being no public
money to expend for educational purposes at that
time, and the teacher usually boarded "around."

At au early age Joseph was left an orphan, and
then worked out by the month, in the winter work-
ing for his board and attending school. When
twenty -one years old he received his inheritance
from his father's estate, the home farm having been
sold for $8 per acre, his share being * 130. This,
with what he had saved, was his entire capital with
which to face the world. He first purchased thirty
acres of prairie land on section 25, also ten acres
of timber on section 24. He erected a frame
house, 14x16 feet in size, with a lean-to 10x16 feet
in dimensions. He rived and shaved the shingles
by hand, and also the weather boards.

In 1846 our subject laid aside his work to enlist
in the army to take part in the Mexican War, and
he served with credit until he was honorably dis-
charged, when he returned home and quietly re-
sinned fanning. In 1855 he removed to Gillespie
Township, where he was engaged in the grain busi-
ness until 1860. During that time he sold his farm
and bought the place where he now resides. As
before stated he has improved the land, and added
all modern conveniences until it is now regarded
as a model farm and an ornament to the township.
He has been remarkably successful in his operations,
and altogether he is the owner of six hundred and
forty acres of fine land, all included in Brushy
Mound Township.

March 4, 1850, Mr. Clark was united in marriage
with Miss Melinda Huddleston. She is a native of
this county, Cahokia Township her birthplace,
where she was born to John and Nancy Huddle-
ston. For her parental history see sketch of R. W.
Huddleston. Mr. and Mrs. Clark are the parents
of eight children — Mary J., Albert F., Charles W.,
Emma Elnora, Nancy E., May , Hettie, Minnie O.

and Harvey W. Mary is the wife of Charles
Boosinger, and has h've children living. Albert
married Mary Reed, and has four children. Charles
married Minnie Williams, and has one child.
Nancy is the wife of Thomas Hargess, and has five
children. May married Arthur Loveless, and lias
one child. Hettie is the wife of Frank lloehn, and
has two children.

Mr. Clark is a man of sound mental calibre,
whose judgment in regard to business matters is
keen, and thrift,, energy and foresight are also
among his characteristics, and have gained him the
important place that he occupies among the pros-
perous men of his community. He is just, liberal
and sagacious in his views on all social and religious
subjects, and though not identified with any church,
he is a generous supporter of all enterprises which
tend to u pi i ft aud purify the people regardless of
denominations.

oC5o~

ILLIAM E. SANDERS. Among the pub-
lic-spirited and prosperous business men

and genial, and hospitable gentlemen of
Macoupin, we are pleased to rank high the name
which appears at the beginning of this biographical
sketch. This merchant who occupies the position
of Postmaster at Macoupin has made a success of
life by his natural ability, supplemented by a thor-
ough-going honesty and a desire to accommodate
those with whom he deals in life.

The father of our subject was the late Brantley
N. Sanders, who was a native of North Carolina,
and his mother was the late Sarah (Sandera) San-
ders, also of North Carolina. They had resided in
Missouri previous to their coming to Macoupin
County, 111 , and they settled in Polk Township in
1863 and there spent the remainder of their days.
Their lives were harmonious and truly united and
they were not long separated by death as the
mother passed away in February, 1866, and her
devoted husband followed her about one month
later. Twelve children had gathered about their
hearthstone and they h»d given them thorough
and practical training in life.

The gentleman of whom we write was one of the

;;;,s

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

eldest in a large family of children and early felt
the responsibilities of life. He was born in Jack-
son County, Ala., January 7. 1848, ami was about
eleven years old when his parents removed to Mis-
souri and he accompanied them when they made
their final removal to Macoupin County in 1863.
Here he grew to manhood, receiving the best in-
struction which his parents could find for him in
the district schools of that day and upon the farm.
For several years his time was devoted to wood-
chopping.

It was in the spring of 1869 that young Sanders
first engaged in mercantile business at Macoupin,
then known as Macoupin Station, and this initial
effort was so successful that he has continued in
that line from that day to this with the exception
of about two years, lie carries a general stock of
merchandise and enjoys a good share of trade. In
the year I 8'.M) he erected a lino brick store and res-
idence, which is an ornament to the town and in
which his business has prospered even more than
before. For about fifteen years he was station agent
at Macoupin and with the exception of about four
years he has been Postmaster since 186'.).

The fellow citizens of Mr. Sanders have placed
him in the office Township Clerk for some fifteen
years, and he was elected Supervisor of Polk Town-
ship and served for one term and is the present
Supervisor. He has filled the office of Justice of
the Peace for two years and has for many years
held the office of Township Treasurer. While sta-
tion agent he was also the United States Express
Company's agent.

The event of greatest importance in I he life of
Mr. Sanders was his marriage November 11, 1869,
in Polk Township, to Miss Cynthia Ritche}-, daugh •
ter of James and Melvina (Fowler) Ritchey. The
father was a Tennesseean and the mother a native
of Kentucky. Mr. Ritchie died in this township in
February, 1866. The daughter Cynthia was born
in Arkansas February 15, 1851. Her maternal
affection and care have been shared by five chil-
dren, namely: Famey, Emma, Nellie, Melvina and
Jesse W. E. Melvina died when about four years
old. Mr. Sanders is the owner of seventy. five
acres in Polk Township, of which he takes a per-
sonal oversight. He is a Republican in his political

views and always takes an active and intelligent
interest in political movements. Roth he and his
interesting and capable wife are earnest and effi-
cient members of the Church of Christ.

AMES TAYLOR, now deceased, was a mem-
ber of the banking house of Wall ife Taylor,
of Staunton. He died at his home in Staun-
ton, 111., May 6, 1881, having just retired
from active business in connection with the bank.
After his departure the business was carried on
successfully for years when the partners concluded
to sell out and close up the business. When Mr.
Taylor came to Macoupin County, in about 1851,
lie was a poor man. He began life in the West by
renting land. When he had gained sufficient means
to do so he purchased and farmed for a number of
years. Later he sold out and put his money into
a general merchandise business in Staunton. He
was thus engaged for several years before entering
upon the banking business with Mr. Wall. After
retiring from the bank on account of ill health,
Mr. Taylor invested his means in real-estate in
Staunton Township.

The subject of this sketch was born in Jefferson
County, W. Va.. September 21. 182*. His father,
Joseph Taylor was a West Virginia farmer, and he
married a West Virginia lady, Margaret Rowers by
name. The}- resided in their native State for sev-
eral years after marriage, and then removed to
Maryland, where Joseph Taylor died. His wife
was married a second time to George Gill, and
they came early in the '50s to Macoupin County,
and settled on a farm in Bunker Hill Township.
Both Mr. and Mrs. Gill were respected members
of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and they lived
lives of Christian purity and repute until a green
old age. They are both laid to rest in the ceme-
tery near their home.

James Taylor was the youngest of his father's
eight children, and as he was quite young at the
time of his father's death he was reared mostly by
his mother and step-father. He came with them

1/BRART
Of THE

WVtRSITY OF ILUNOI

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

3G1

to Macoupin County, and spent his school days on
the farm and in the district schools. Having ar-
rived at manhood lie chose for himseif a wife, and
was married in C'arlinville, to Sarah O'Neal, who
was born .September 7, 1830, in Bourbon County,
Kv. Mrs. Taylor was left an orphan at a very early
aye, too young in fact to have interested herself in
the early history of her family, which she now
greatly regrets. She came with kinsmen to Illinois
when only eight years old, and resided for some
years in Coles and Moultrie Counties. In 1848 she
came to Macoupin County, within the borders of
which she has since resided. Although now some-
what advanced in years she maintains her mental
and physical activity, and enjoys life in her retired
home on North Franklin Street, at Bunker Hill.
She has a fine income left her by her husband, to
whom she had been a most devoted and helpful
wife. She was the mother of two children: Joseph
and Emma, both of whom died in infanc}'. She
has been the foster mother of one child, Lucretia
Price, who became the wife of Louis Powers, and
died after becoming the mother of five children.
Mr. Taylor was a quiet and retired man in his na-
ture, and never was an orliee-sceker or willing to
be put in prominence by his fellow-citizens. After
the war he consistently voted the Republican ticket
and was interested in public affairs. Mrs. Taylor
is a life-long member of the Baptist Church, in
which she is a quiet but effective worker. She is
highly esteemed by all her friends and neighbors.

•*&£&&&&****-

\i)OHN H. LOVELESS. The Central States
are so productive of grain that it is not
surprising that a large number of people
have reaped from the bountiful harvests of
Mother Earth, a reasonable amount of this world's
goods. Among the number who are successfully
engaged in tilling the soil is the gentleman whose
name introduces this biographical notice, and
whose portrait appears on the opposite page. His
fine farm is located in Bird Township and is em-
bellished with a good set of buildings, the most
important of which is the residence of the family.

Near it are such structures as the practical devel-
opment of a model farm calls for, while through
the proper rotation of crops and fertilizing the
soil, the land is brought to a high state of improve-
ment.

Our subject is the son of William Loveless, who
was born in Blount County, 'lYnn., in 1808. His
mother was .lane Bell in her maidenhood, and her
native home was in Knox County, Tenn. In that
State they were married ami resided until 1841,
when they removed to Illinois and made their home
on section 8, Bird Township, this county. Here
they lived in happiness until the death of the
mother, December 1, 1881, when seventy-one
years old. The father still survives at an advanced
age and makes his home with his children. Twelve
children clustered around this worthy pioneer
couple, who were named as follows: John H., Matil
da, Elizabeth, Samuel L., Zeddock, William J.,
George W., Hugh F., Mary A.. Marion F., Martha
and Charles M. Matilda is the widow of Malhias
Underwood; Elizabeth and Martha are deceased;
Mary A., is Mrs. William Bumgardner.

John H , the eldest of this family and the sub-
ject of this biographical sketch, was born in Eastern
Tennessee, December 30, 1825. lie was therefore
sixteen years of age when he accompanied the pa-
rental family to Macoupin County, this State, and
here passed the remaining days of his youth.
He remained at home with his parents until his
inarriage,since which he has made a permanent home
upon another tract of land not far from the old
homestead, with the exception of two years when
he resided in Champaign County, this State, lie
has always been engaged in the pursuit of agri-
culture.

The marriage of Mr. Loveless to Miss Rhuhama
Brown took place it; Bird Township. December 23,
1817. This lady was the daughter of John M. and
Christina (Etter) Brown who came from Virginia
to Indiana, and thence to this county, making their
home, in Western Mound Township in 18 12.
Here they resided until Mrs. Etter was called
away from earth about the year 1850. After her
death her husband removed to Montgomery
County, where he died about two years later.
They were blessed with thirteen children, twelve

362

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

daughters and one son. Mrs. Loveless was the
seventh daughter in this family, and was horn
near Indianapolis, Ind., January 1, 1826. Eleven
children have blessed the home of Mr. and Mrs.
Loveless, namely: William R., James M., Eliza-
beth J., Emanuel, Matilda, George, Sarah K., Mary
V., Robert A., Cyrus O. and John B. William R.
married Anna Crowder; James M.. who married
Mary Clark, died in November, 1876: Elizabeth
J. died in infancy; Matilda is the wife of Lewis
Keorner; George married Alano Hoover; Sarah is
the wife of Jasper W. Wheeler; Mary V. died
in childhood; Robert A. married Hannah Ward.
Mr. Loveless is wide-awake to the educational
interests of the community and for many years
has been School Director. He is a member of
the Democratic party, and always takes an active
part in political affairs. Both he and his wife
have been active members of the Baptist Church
for about forty years. The event in his life the
most tragic and heart-breaking, was the distressing
death of his mother. Her clothes took fire from
a fireplace near which she was sitting, and the in-
juries resulted in her death. The pain she endured
was agonizing, and she was conscious throughout
the whole period of suffering, and met her death
with remarkable fortitude and cheerfulness. Mr.
Loveless owns and occupies one hundred and twenty
acres of the old homestead, which was his father's.
He is a public-spirited citizen and a man of uncom-
mon energy. His wife who is a woman of great
capabilities and of sound Christian character is a
worthy mate for her husband, and is honored and
respected by all who know her.

AVIS AMES. The owner of the farm on
section 27, North Otter Township, is the
gentleman whose name heads this sketch.
The farm comprises one hundred and sixty acres
of fertile land in the most desirable part of the
county. An air of prosperity is felt to rest over
the place and is explained by the good class of
buildings and high state of cultivation under
which the place is kept. While our subject makes

fanning his business, it is not so much the work
of life as to provide the comforts that home should
bring to every family. The house is pleasantly
located on a slight eminence, from which there is
a charming vista of trees and misty clouds with a
glimpse of water in the distance. That part of
life which is so frequently neglected by farmers —
the social side — is here recognized at its full
worth, and the friends who have the privilege of
coming to the home find it a meeting-place from
which they go away more thoughtful, happier and
better in every way. Books and papers are the
companions of the inmates and the current topics
are here intelligently discussed.

Mr. Ames' father was John Ames, a native of
Lancaster County, Pa. His mother was Sarah
(Staufer) Ames, also a native of the same county.
The father died in Wayne County, Ohio, and the
mother passed away in Elkhart County, Ind. Our
subject was brought up to a farmer's life, that hav-
ing been his father's calling. John Ames and his
wife had six children, of whom our subject was the
third child. His birth took place in Lancaster
County, Pa., on February 13, 1835. He was but
eighteen months old when his parents removed to
Wayne County, Ohio, and there grew to manhood.

After reaching years of maturity Mr. Ames de-
termined to take unto himself a wife, and he was
married early in February, 1858, to Miss Mary-
Weaver, a daughter of Joseph and Martha Weaver.
Their first home was in Wayne County, Ohio, and
there they enjoyed together the first four years of
marital life. They then removed to Elkhart County,
Ind., living there six years, and in March, 1869,
they came to Macoupin County, settling on the
farm where they now live in August. He has ever
since been a resident of North Otter Township.
The)' were the parents of six children — Leander,
who married Nettie M. Smith; Sarah, who became
the wife of Christian Roesch; Lydia, who died at
the early age of seventeen; Eli W., Elmer and
Delia M. Mrs. Mary Ames died in North Otter
Township February 5, 1883.

Our subject was again married, Miss Mary A.
Bechtold becoming his wife in Sangamon County,
June 15,1884. The lady is a daughter of William
and Elizabeth L. (Bin baker) Bechtold, both of Lan-

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

.{63

easier County, Pa. The mother died in Macoupin
County, 111.; the father still survives. Mrs. Ames
was horn in Lancaster Count}', Pa., July 9, 1851.
One ehilil has been the fruit of this marriage, a
daughter, who was christened Dora E.

Mr. Ames has always been engaged in farming,
and is thoroughly conversant, not only with the
best ways and means in use in agriculture, but of
the most direct way the object he desires may be
obtained. In politics he is an adherent of the
Republican party. He has been elected School
Director in his township, having discharged the
duties incident to that office to the satisfaction
of his constituents. Our subject has taken an act-
ive part in religious work and is a member of the
German Baptist Church, as is also his wife and as
was the companion of his early life.

— *■ -3K-— -*—

^OHN M. SCHMIDT. One of the largest
farmers in Gillespie Township is the man
whose name heads this sketch. He lives on
section 35, and owns in his homestead one
hundred and twenty acres, but in all the land that
he has accumulated aggregates nine hundred and
seventy acres, the whole of which property is well
improved and stocked. The fact that Mr. Schmidt
came to this land a poor man only thirty-six years
ago, and that he has amassed what is a comfortable
fortune, is a commentary upon the possibilities that
are to be found in the United States.

Our subject was born in Hanover, German}', Oc-
tober 22, 1828. For a history of his parents, see
biography of Weye Schmidt on another page.
Our subject's parents were farmers and he grew up
with a knowledge of all the duties incident to agri-
cultural life. He was a single man when he deter-
mined to come to America, and took passage at
Bremen, Hanover, on a sailing vessel, August 31,
1855. He landed in New Orleans where he spent
seven weeks in becoming somewhat familiar with
the English tongue and American ways; thence he
came to St. Louis and then to Alton and from here
he proceeded to Macoupin County, Gillespie Town
ship, where he settled November 18, of that year.

He has ever since made this place his home, having
here accumulated his fortune and being determined
that it shall be the shelter for his last days. For
the first three years of Mr. Schmidt's life in Amer-
ica he worked as a laborer for M. W. Dorsey and
then he rented a farm for live years, after which
he purchased his first one hundred and twenty
acres on section 35, to which he has since added
his large increase of land. He is one of the thrift-
iest farmers among the German settlers in the
count}'.

Our subject was married in this township to
Miss Meta E. Milfs. She was born and reared in
Hanover, and in 1H58 came to this country with
her future husband, who had gone on a trip to his
native home and on his return to this country he
brought the young lady with him who was soon to
be his bride. They were married in the spring of
1859, and they have since lived and labored to-
gether, the wife being a true and good woman and
a great help to him in every way. She is the
mother of thirteen children, only one of whom is
deceased. The living children arc as follows:
Charles, who took to wife Weptka Schmidt, and
they live on a farm in this township; Etta, who is
the wife of Fritz Harines; they are also farmers in
this township; John, who took to wife Gepta Gosh-
niann, also lives on a farm in this township ; Weptka,
the wife of Louis Kartum; they are farmers in this
township; Milf is proprietor of a farm with his
brother; he is unmarried. Weye, Weert, Jacob,
Minnie, Zena, John and Adolpii all live at home.

Mr. Schmidt, wife and family are all members of
the Lutheran Church. The father and sons arc
Democrats in politics.

\fl AMES W. FORK, one of the oldest settleri
of Honey Point Township, is a native of
of Tennessee, being born in Murray County,
W that State, August 28, 1813. His ancestors
were of English and Irish origin; his paternal grand-
father, James, emigrated from England to North
Carolina, and married a young lady named Whit-
taker. Here his father, Joel, was born in Surrey

364

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

County in the year 1784, and moved when a young
man to the State of Tennessee, where he married
Talitha Jackson, who was of Irish descent, and
whose family had come from North Carolina to
Tennessee. Our subject's grandmother on his moth-
er's side was Charity Boyd, who was born in North
Carolina, and was living there during the Revolu-
tionaiy War, and who always enjoyed recounting
how she heard in her home, the sound of musketry
during the Battle of Cowpens.

When James W. York was quite a small child,
his father removed from Murray to Bedford County,
Tenn. where the family lived until 1828. While
living in this State he bought timber land and
built a log house for the family home. The next
removal of the family was to Morgan County, 111 ,
and this son was fifteen years old at, that time.
The county was thinly settled and Jacksonville
was then such a place as Gillespie now is. The
farmers had no market for their produce but every-
body lived in a rough and primitive way; all were
sociable, good-hearted and neighborly, and had
many good times together. The journey from Ten-
nessee to Illinois occupied thirty days and was ac-
complished by the help of a four-horse team which
had been hired at the rate of $2.50 a day. After
a seven years' residence near Jacksonville, the fam-
ily removed to Macoupin County and entered land
near Carlinville which is the farm now owned by
James McClure. The father died in 1847 upon a
farm a mile further east. The mother died two
months later.

After coming to Illinois, our subject had only
six weeks of schooling, but he had attended good
private schools in Tennessee. As he was the oldest
son his course of study was cut short by the family
necessities. After his father's removal to Macou-
pin Count}-, he stayed in Morgan Country for two
years and worked on a farm at $15 a month, and
from his earnings he accumulated sufficient money
to enter eighty acres of land, which have been in his
possession ever since and on which now stands his
pleasant home. Upon this he moved in the spring
of 1838, bought an ox-team and began breaking
prairie. He iiad prepared for this new venture by
engaging a life partner to help him in establishing
a home upon the new farm, and he was married in

February, 1838, to Mary E. Keplinger, daughter
of John and Elizabeth Keplinger, and a sister of
Peter Keplinger, whose biography will be found
elsewhere in this volume. This lady was born in
Washington Count}-, Tenn. and came to Morgan
County in 1830.

It was in the fall after his marriage that James
York built a log cabin. For a long time he had to
haul his wheat to Alton and St. Louis and go to
mill at Alton and Edwardsville; but later a mill
was built at Woodburn, and also in Montgomery
County. In those early times a pioneer's life was
by no means an easy one, and hard labor and un-
tiring energy were necessary to the accumulation
of property. But these our subject was willing to
give and he finally gained a position where he could
enjoy a comfortable competence. Atone time he
was the owner of six hundred and twenty acres of
land, nearly half of which he has now given to his
older children. A part of his present residence is
the original old log house, built in the fall of 1838,
which has been remodeled and improved, and in
1875 was finally changed into a neat and attractive
dwelling.

By his first marriage Mr. York had ien children,
all of whom died when quite young, except three:
Maria is tin.' wife of John II. Shears, Sophronia E.
married John Saunders, and Elbert is farming in
Honey Point Township. Their mother died Novem-
ber 24, 1873. The second wife bore the maiden
name of Hester Hamilton, and their marriage took
place in January 1875. Her five children are all
living and they bear the names of Minnie Viola,
James VV., Vesta L., Nancy Almira, and Herbert
A. Mrs. York is a daughter of Frederick A. and
Nancy (Hampton) Hamilton, natives of Virginia
and Kentucky, respectively, and now residents of
Carlinville. Mr. York has commanded through
life the warm respect and esteem of his fcllow-cit-
zens. He is a man of decided convictions, but
concedes to others the same freedom of opinion
which he has claimed for himself. His first Presi-
idential vote whs in 1836, for Martin Van Burcn,
and he has ever been attached to the party of Jeffer-
son and Jackson, yet in local elections he has al-
ways claimed the privilege of supporting the best
man for the office. He has had opportunities to

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

365

occupy public positions and upon the first organ-
ization of Honey Point Township, served for one
term ns Supervisor, and was twice re-elected, but
declined to serve. In the days of the old militia
organization, lie was first Lieutenant of his com-
pany and was always on hand at the annual mus-
ters. In January, 1857, he became connected with
the United Baptist Church, and two years later was
made a Deacon.

Like most men in Illinois who have reached a
position of influence and competence, he began al-
most entirely without means, and what he has ac-
complished has beci the result of his own industry
and energy. He is a man of liberal and generous
disposition and has provided comfortably for his
children. He is one of the best known of the old
pioneers in Macoupin County, and has done his
full share to change it from a wilderness to a pros-
perous, thriving and populous community. He
has lived a life of usefulness and integrity and now
at the close of a long and industrious career, he
can look hack over a life which has been a benefit
to himself, to his family, and his fellow-men.

0^-j.^S)-

OHN LYONS, a practical farmer of Ililyard
Township, residing on section 5, is a native
of the Emerald Isle. He was born in the
North of Ireland on the 29th of April, 1829,
lie is a grandson of Robert and Fannie (Ful-
ton) Lyons, who were also born in the North of
Ireland, of Scotch-Irish parentage and of the Pres-
byterian faith. His father, Thomas Lyons, was
also born in that locality and was one of a large
family. He grew to manhood in the usual manner
of farmer lads and then wedded Miss Mary A.
Taggert, of the North of Ireland, who likewise
came of Protestant Irish parentage. She was a
daughter of John and Jane Taggert, who were born
and reared in the North of Ireland and there spent
their entire lives, dying when well advanced in
years. Thomas Lyons and his wife began their
domestic life upon a small farm on the Green Isle
of Erin and there three children were born unto

and

them. In the spring of 183G they sailed from
Belfast to this country, landing in Philadelphia
after a long voyage of eight weeks. The summer
after their arrival they spent in Montgomery
County, Pa., and in the succeeding autumn started
for Peoria, 111., but the Illinois River was frozen
up and they had to stop at what is now Coon Creek,
Jersey County, where they decided to make their
home. They settled upon a new farm live miles
west of Jerseyville, where the parents continued
to spend the remainder of their lives, both dying
when [last seventy years of age. They were classed
among the pioneer settlers of Jersey County and
were people of worth and ability. Their family
numbered five children who grew to manhood and
womanhood, while three are yet living. One son
died from a wound received at the battle of Shiloh
during the late war. He had only been in the ser-
vice a few months when pierced by an enemy's
bullet, he gave up his life for his country.

The subject of this sketch was only seven years
of age when lie bade good-by to the land of his
birth and accompanied his parents to America.
Under the parental roof he vvas reared to manhood
in Jersey County, where he was the first time mar-
ried, the lady of his choice being Miss Nancy
Campbell, a native of North Carolina, who when a
child went to Jersey County, 111., with her parents,
William and Mary Campbell, both of whom are
now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Lyons were married
in February, 1853, and in September, 1855, the
lady was called to her final home when thirty-five
years of age. Mr. Lyons was again married in
Greene County, his second union being with Mrs.
Alvira A. (Tunnell) Parker, who was born on the
22d of August, 1839, in Greene County, and is a
daughter of Calvin and Jane Tunnell, natives of
Virginia, who on emigrating to Illinois located in
Madison County, and later removed to Greene
County, where Mr. Tunnell procured land and de-
veloped a good farm near Carrollton, where they
spent their last days. In Greene County, Alvira
Tunnell became the wife of Daniel L. Parker, who
died in Hilyard Township, leaving two children:
Mary E., wife of John Caywood, of Ililyard Town-
ship; and Henry L., a farmer of Greene County,
who married Carrie Cornell. Unto Mr. and Mrs.

366

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

Lyons have been born six children but three died
in childhood: Thomas C, Luther and John. The
living are Robert N., who married Jessie B. Cor-
nell and lives on a farm in Hilyard Township; and
James T. and Alvira A., at home.

Mr. and Mrs. Lyons are members of the Presby-
terian Church in which he is now serving as Deacon
and Trustee, and in politics he is a Democrat. They
reside upon a pleasantly situated farm of two hun-
dred and sixty acres which is now under a high
state of cultivation. Mr. Lyons located there on
the 13th of March, 18G5, and has since made all
the improvements seen upon the place. He is re-
garded as one of the enterprising and successful
farmers of the community and well deserves a rep-
resentation in the history of his adopted county.

«^€

/p^)EORGE M. KILLAM. This section of the
fll <=- country has always proved very attractive

5^8 to citizens of foreign birth, who have come
lo America with a desire to give their children the
benefits of a home in the land of liberty and an op-
portunity for independence. The fertility of Illi-
nois was early made a matter of comment and con-
versation among the yeomanry of England, and
their attention was called to the advantages which
were offered here. In consequence of this many of
them emigrated to this country and among them we
find Samuel Killam, the father of our subject. His
wife bore the maiden name of Mary M. Morris.
They were married in England and coming to
America, made their first home in Morgan County.
This worthy and intelligent couple finally re-,
moved to Macoupin Count}- and settled in South
Palmyra Township, where they ended their days
in peace and happiness. Ten children had gath-
ered about theii home, of whom our subject was
the seventh. He was born in South Palmyra
Township, August 28, 1840. Here he grew to
manhood and has always remained a resident of
this county. He remained at home most of the
time till his marriage, after which he lived for two
years in Carlinville Township and then settled in
Bird Township, where he owns two hundred and

nine acres. He has erected good buildings on his
farm, which is finely improved. He has always
been engaged in stock-raising and agricultural pur-
suits.

The marriage of Mr. Killam with Emily Baker
took place on March 15, 1866, in South Otter
Township. The lady whom he marie his wife was
a daughter of Robert Baker, of South Otter Town-
ship. They set up their home in Carlinville Town-
ship and four children crowned their union: Mary
F., George A., Charles W. and Emily J. The
mother of these children was snatched from the
companionship of her husband and children Au-
gust 23, 1878.

The second marriage of this gentleman took
place in St. Louis, Mo., on April 22, 1880. His
bride was Miss Rosalie, a daughter of William and
Rachael Standiford. Mr. Standiford was a soldier
in the Civil War and met his death while in the
service. His wife has also passed to the other
world. Their daughter Rosalie was born in Frank-
lin County, Mo., June 20, 1855. She has become
the mother of three children, namely: John A..
Samuel C. and Nellie R.

Mr. Killam is an earnest and efficient member of
the Republican party and his advocacy of his po-
litical principles is intelligent and convincing.
He is a man of influence in the community and has
held a number of township offices in the county.
His farm is in excellent condition „nd the build-
ings upon it are worthy of note. His estimable
wife is a devoted and active member of the Meth-
odist Episcopal Church, in which she finds a broad
field of usefulness.

RANK A. GELDER, dental surgeon, has
an extensive and lucrative practice at Pal-
myra, where he bears a high reputation for
skill and a thorough knowledge of his profession.
He is a native born citizen of this county, Barr
Township the place of his birth, and September 14,
1854, the date thereof. His father, Thomas GeWler,
was a native of Yorkshire, England, and his par-
ents were life-long residents of that country. The

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

367

fiillier of our subject and his cousin, Capt. Thomas
Gelder, who settled in Chesterfield Township, were
the only male raen)bers of the family that ever came
to America. The former was a youth of eighteen
years when he landed on these shores. He at first
lived in Chesterfield Township, where several Eng-
lish families had previously located. He had no
means at that time and sought employment on a
farm. He worked by the monlh a few years, and
during that time wisely saved his earnings so that
he might invest in land and become independent.
He finally gathered together enough to purchase a
quarter-section of timbered land in Barr Township,
on which was a small frame house built entirely of
oak and black walnut lumber. Mr. Gelder com-
menced at once the pioneer work that lay before
him of evolving a farm from the wilderness, but
while he was thus busily engaged death cut short
his career in 1864, and a loyal and useful citizen
was lost to his township.

By the untimely death of the father the mother
cf our subject was left in limited circumstances
with live children to care for, as follows: William
H., Frank A., Mary A., Clara E. and Ada F. The
maiden name of the mother was Mary Shearburn,
and she was born in Yorkshire, England. Her
father was Thomas Shearburn, and he was also a
native of Yorkshire. He emigrated to this coun-
try with his family, and was a pioneer of Barr
Township, where he improved a good farm, upon
which he resided until his decease. When a young
man living in the old country he married Ann
Bell, the daughter of an Episcopalian clergyman.
Some years after the death of Mr. Gelder his widow
married Henry Bracewell, and now lives in Wayne
County, Iowa.

As soon as he was large enough our subject be
gan to work for various parties to earn money to
assist his mother in the support of the family. The
little lad was but eight years old when he Grst
.sought and found employment, and was given §4
a month for his services. Until he was eighteen
years old he continued to work by the month, ex-
cept for a short time each winter season, when he
attended school. During that time he was a student
in a school at Pana, III., two years. At the age
mentioned he rented the home farm, and devoted

himself to agricultural pursuits the following two
years. At the age of twenty he accepted a position
as clerk at Taylorville. in which capacity be was
engaged one year.

At the expiration of that time deciding to adopt
the profession of dentistry, Mr. Oelder began to
prepare himself for that vocation at Pana. under
Dr. T. II. McCoy. He served an apprenticeship of
two years without any remuneration so as to gain a
thorough master} - of the details of the calling. He
proved to be such a bright, apt pupil, that when
his preceptor went to Europe at the end of that
time he placed such confidence in his ability that
he left him in charge of his office. He remained
in Pana three years, and then came to Palmyra,
which at that time was a small village of about
three hundred inhabitants, and he has since been in
active practice here, and is meeting with merited
success, as he applies himself closely to his profes-
sion. He has a neat, and well-litted up office, amply
supplied with all the modern appliances of dental
surgery, and he keeps well abreast of the times in
his methods of work. He possesses many frank
and prepossessing qualities, is courteous and affable
in his intercourse with others, and with his amiable
wife occupies a high social position among our best
people.

Dr. Gelder was married in 1882 to Miss Flora E.
Gardner, a native of this county, and a daughter
of John T. and Hester A. (Edwards) Gardner.
Five children complete the pleasant home circle of
our subject and his wife: Frank G., Wilbur Max,
Ola Roll, Isla, and an infant as yet unnamed.

Our subject is now President of the Town Hoard,
also of the School Board.

A VII) STEAD. England has sent so many
jjj of her sons to this country, and they are
tfm^ almost always of so good a class of people,
that we have come to look upon them as
most desirable acquisitions in every community.
To say that a man is an Englishman, is usually a
pledge for his standing as a loyal American in all
questions of equity and right. Our subject is not

368

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD

only of English parentage bul. he himself was born
in the quaint portion of England, in which the dia-
lect is so broad as to remind one of the variety in
origin of its people. He was bom in Yorkshire,
November 22, 1829. Mr. Stead now is the owner
of a fine farm located on section 10, of Nilwood
Township.

The parents of our subject were Benjamin and
Martha (Taylor) Stead. They were both natives
of Yorkshire. The paternal grandfather of the
original of our sketch was also Benjamin Ste.id. He
lived and died in Yorkshire, England, having fol-
lowed the calling of a farmer for the greater por-
tion of his life. David Stead's father emigrated U,
America early in the '40s, and at once settled in
Nilwood Township, Macoupin County, where one
year afterward his decease took place. His wife
followed him in 1858.

( )f a family of eight children our subject was the
fourth; his early education was received in his na-
tive country, and he came to America with his
father and settled with the family in Nilwood
Township, July G, 1851. The next important event |
in his history was his marriage to Miss Mary A.
Boston. She was born in Harrison County, End.,
June 4, 1829. Her parents were Beverly and Eliza-
beth (Boston) Boston. The former was a native
of Virginia, and the latter of Kentucky. After
tlieir marriage they settled in Floyd County. Ind.
The father came to Macoupin County, in 1838, the
family following him a short time after. They
settled in what is now Nilwood Township, where
the mother died, September 7, 1851. The father
died in September, 1853. They had ten children, of
whom Mrs. Stead was the ninth.

Our subject and his wife are the parents of five
children. They are Benjamin A., who is a farmer
in Montgomery County, this State; George N., who
follows his father's calling in Nilwood Township;
John H., who is an agriculturist, also of Nilwood
Township; James D., who is also a farmer. The
second child. William E. died in childhood. All
of Mr. Stead's life has been engaged in devotion to
his agricultural pursuits. His farm of three hun-
dred and twenty acres located most favorably is
well improved and in a high state of cultivation.
His residence is especially noticable, proclaiming

its builder a man of taste as well as judgment. All
the comforts and conveniences that give the people
of the present day so much the advantage of those
of years ago are to be found about the house. His
townsmen have shown tlieir confidence in Mr.
Stead's ability in executive matters, by appointing
him a School Trustee. Both he and his wife are
members of the Christian Church, in which the
former has been an Elder for many years. Mrs.
Stead is a woman whose amiability and charm of
manner endear her to friends and commend her to
acquaintances. A woman whose realm is in her
family life, but who always has a kind and encour-
aging word for any one in trouble. She and her
husband are generous and open hearted, and are
counted among the progressive people of the town-
ship.

SSS383-

ILL1AM H. DEWS. One of the substan-
tial farmers of English origin is he who
resides on section 34, Western Mound
Township. The farm, which was originally that
of his father, comprised six hundred acres of fine
land and the present proprietor cultivates it to the
highest possible degree. Our subject's father was
John Dews, who was born in Yorkshire, England.
The mother was Sylvia (Morris) Dews, also a na-
tive of Yorkshire. They, however, met and mar-
ried in this country, Alton. 111., being the scene of
their courtship and union. After their marriage
they came to Macoupin County and settled in
Western Mound Township, upon the farm which
our subject at present occupies. Here the father
died, December 18, 1888.

Her gracious Majesty. Queen Victoria, has set
her seal of approval upon the rearing of large fam-
ilies by offering a prize to the mother of the larg-
est family of living children. This is not an
individual opinion but rather shows the sentiment
of the nation, for English families are, as a rule,
larger than the families of American parents. Our
subject's parents showed themselves to be true to
the English idea by rearing a family of ten chil-
dren, of whom our subject was one of the junior
members. His present home was his birthplace,

IfBRAHY

"WPRSITY OF ILLiNC

*• ~J&-' '•'

J/Cl^L /? S^^^-

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

371

his natal day being March 20, 1852. Here he was
reared to manhood and has ever been a resident at
the place where he is now owner.

( »ur subject's father, John Dews, erected a fine
scries of buildings upon his farm and at one time
was the proud proprietor of one thousand acres of
as good land as there was iu the county. At pres-
ent everything about the place indicates the careful
and progressive farmer. The buildings are in beau-
tiful order and meadows, paddocks and wood lots
are rich with their respective productions.

Our subject is very popular among the people of
his locality and has a turn for political life. His
interest in the affairs pertaining to his calling is
shown by the prominent part that he takes in the
Farmers' Alliance of this section. He has held the
office of Justice of the Peace for four years and was
Census Enumerator for Western Mound Township
iD 1890. Our subject's father was a member of the
Episcopal Church and the religious preference of
William Dews is in the same direction.

-*$4¥*«~-

i.^*^.

T\ R. J- 1'. BINNEY, who is now living a re-
tired life, resides on a fine farm of one hun-
dred and sixty acres on section 3b\ Staun-
ton Township. He is of English birth
and a native of Sheffield, Yorkshire, where he was
born on the 3d of July, 1 H 1 f i . His parents were
also Yorkshire people. At the early age of fifteen
years, he entered upon the study of medicine and
surgery in Lancaster, England, under Dr. William
Prescott, with whom he remained until his emigra-
tion to America in the year 1842.

Hearing very favorable reports of this country
and the advantages it afforded young men, Dr.
Binney determined to seek a home across the wat-
ers and in the month of December of the year
previously mentioned, sailed from Liverpool, in
one of the vessels of the North Sea line, which was
commanded by Capt. Wynn. After a long tedious
: voyage of nine weeks, anchor was dropped in the
harbor of New Orleans and the Doctor made his
way up the Mississippi River to St. Louis, proceed-

ing to Macoupin County the same year. Here he
has resided continuously since and from the be-
ginning has been numbered among the prominent
anil leading men in the county.

Soon after his arrival Dr. Binney embarked in
the practice of medicine and his skill anil ability
at once won him an excellent practice and he was
ranked high by his professional brethren. His
patronage came from all over the country for miles
around and he successfully and profitably engaged
in the prosecution of his chosen profession until
1888, when he retired to private life. He also de-
voted a part of his lime and attention to farming,
and in this branch of his business also met with
prosperity. His home farm now comprises a quar-
ter section of valuable land, upon which are sub-
stantial buildings and man} - excellent improve-
ments. His residence is one of the finest and
largest brick dwellings in the county and every-
thing about the place is in keeping with his home.
He also owns eight improved lots in New Douglas,
HI.

In Madison County, Dr. Binney led to the mar-
riage altar Miss Martha L. Martin, one of the fair
daughters of that county, where her parents, David
and Maltha Martin, were early settlers. They came
to Illinois from Kentucky in a very early day and
located in Madison County, where they improved
a farm upon which they spent the remainder of
their lives. Mrs. Binney received good educational
advantages for that day and is an intelligent and
cultured lady who has won many friends. She re-
mained under the parental roof until she gave her
hand in marriage to the Doctor, to whom she has
proved a true helpmate. They have traveled life's
journey together for moiethan forty years, labor-
ing for their mutual good and their lives have
been blessed in many ways. The greatest adver-
sity which has come upon them is the loss of their
three children, John, Thomas and liessie, all of
whom died in childhood. In political sentiment,
the Doctor is a Republican, but his business duties
in former years were so manifold that he
conld not, if he had desired, lake an active part
in political affairs. lie anil his wife are numbered
among the most highly esteemed citizens of the
county, where for almost half a century they have

372

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

ill

made their homo, and the confidence and good
wishes of the community are accorded them.

In connection with this brief biographical review
the reader will notice a lithographic portrait of Dr.
Binney, whose lineaments will be thus perpetuated
for coming generations.

— * 6s-*HB»- «-

EWIS F. BECKER, of the firm of J. G.
Becker & Son, contractors and builders,
was born in St. Louis. Mo., July 1. 1854.
He is the eldest son of .1. G. and Catherine Becker,
of whom we read more in the father's sketch which
precedes this. He was only seven years old when
be came to Virrlen with his parents and here lie
attended the public school steadily until he reached
the age of fifteen. He then commenced work with
his father at the carpenter's trade and when he
reached his majority became a partner with his
father in the firm.

The marriage of Lewis Becker, and Miss Caro-
line Bijor was solemnized February 1, 1877. The
bride was born in JerseyviDe, 111., and is the
daughter of Bernard and Martha Bijor, both na-
tives of Germany. Six children have come to the
home of Mr. and Mrs. Becker, namely : Fred, Ota,
Ada, Oscar, Annie and Carrie. Mr. Becker is a
member of Virden Lodge No. 161, A. F. & A. M.,
in which he officiates as Past Master, lie is a man
of public spirit and ever ready to promote the best
interests of the community. He is a member of the
Virden School Board and is now serving his second
term as a member of the City Council.

OHN Q. ADAMS. The gentleman of
whom this sketch is written is one of the
prominent residents of Bird Township, re-
siding on section 16, where he has a fine
farm adorned with handsome buildings. He is the
youngest in a family of ten children. His father,
Horatio Adams, and his mother, Siopha Muier,
were natives of Kentucky. He was born in

Bird Township, January 13, 1842, and here he grew
to manhood, receiving an ordinary district-school
education and being trained in all the duties of a
truly manly character.

Devotion to country was not one of the least of
the virtues which were instilled by his parents and
when the time came that our nation was in peril,
this brave boy responded to her call and enlisted
August 9, 1862, in Company A, One Hundred and
Twenty second Illinois Infantry. He was about
twenty-one years old when he enlisted and he
served until July, 1865, being mustered out of the
service August 4 of that year. He took part in
the conflicts of Nashville, Tenn., Parker's Cross
Roads, Tupelo, Miss., Town Creek, Ala., and the
siege and capture of Mobile, and many smaller
engagements.

Notwithstanding his willingness to fight for his
nation's honor, this young hero hailed with delight
a return to the joys of home and the delights of
peace. After his discharge he returned to Bird
Township, which he has always made his home,
and where he has engaged in agricultural pursuits
and stock-raising. Two hundred and thirt3-seven
acres are comprised within the boundaries of Mr.
Adams' farm, and upon it he has erected excellent
and commodious farm buildings.

The marriage of John 0- Adams with Par-
thena Comer, a daughter of Aaron Comer, took
place in Bird Township, September 27, 1867. This
lady was bom in this township, September 17, 1848.
Ten children came to call her mother, namely :
Eva M.. who is the wife of Thomas Chiles; Etta
L., who married Albert Loveless, and eight little
ones who died in infancy. Mrs. Parthena Adams
was called away from earth November 15, 1885.
She was a devout member of the Baptist Church
and a faithful wife and mother. The second mar-
riage of Mr. Adams was solemnized in McLean
County, Septembers, 1889, and he was then united
with Mrs. Amanda (Purvis) Hoblit, a daughter of
Allen and Angeline Purvis, and the widow of
Francis M. Hoblit, who died in Florida, January
28, 1883. Mrs. Amanda Adams was born in Ten-
nessee, March 24, 1843, and she became the mother
of six children by Mr. Hoblit: Dora A., William
A., Aurilla M, John E., Kate and James A. The

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECOKD.

373

citizens of this township have twice shown their
appreciation of Mr. Adams and their confidence in
his educational views, by placing him upon the
BoKrd of School Directors and he has been serving
in that capacity for nine years. The farming inter-
ests are dear to him and he has identified himself
as a member of the Farmers' Mutual Benefit Asso
ciation, believing that this is the best organization
for protecting the rights of the agricultural people.
The Baptist Church receives the loyal allegiance
of our subject and in it he is a power for good.

£ • * ' ! ' £ • > •-

^fl JOSEPH LINK, M. D., is a young physician
of undoubted talent and liberal education
who has already acquired a high reputation
among his patients in C'arlinville, where he
is located, and elsewhere, for his skill and success
in combating the various diseases to which man-
kind is heir. He is a native of this county, son of
John Joseph Link, a well-known resident of this
city, who was for many years actively engaged
in agricultural pursuits in this county, but is now
living in retirement, though he still retains his
faun.

The father of our subject was born in Baden,
Germany, May 3, 1824, a son of John Lorenz
Link, who was a native of the same country as
himself. His father, the great-grandfather of our
subject, was a farmer and spent his entire life in
the Fatherland. The grandfather of our subject
was reared on a farm. At the age of seventeen he
was pressed into the army, and served under Napo-
leon I. He also passed his whole life in Ger-
many, giving his attention to farming after he
left the army. The maiden name of his wife was
Annie Mary Mussig, and she was also a life-Jong
resident of Germany. She was the mother of
five children — Frank, John J., Maggie, Ann Mar}'
and Lorenz.

The father of our subject and his sister Mary
were the only members of the family to come to
America. The former was reared in the land of
his nativity and in the German schools received
an excellent education. After he left school he

devoted his time to farm labor. He was ambitious
to see something of the world, and desirous to
avail himself of the many superior advantages of-
fered to capable, energetic, self-reliant young men
by the fertile soil and genial climate of the West-
ern prairies of the United States, he therefore
set sail in May, 1854, from Havre for this land
of promise, and landed at New York on our Na-
tional holiday, forty-four days later. He immedi-
ately made his way to Illinois, and after staying
two weeks in Chicago, he came to this county.
When he arrived he found himself a stranger in a
strange land with no money in his pockets. But
he was willing and able to work, and he at once
procured employment on a farm at $1.25 a day
during the harvest season. After that he had to
content himself with ¥1 2 a month, but even with
those small wages he managed to save money
enough to become independent, as he was frugal
and prudent, and in time he was able to buy one
hundred acres of good land in Honey Point Town-
ship at $25 an acre. There was a small house and
stable on the place and fifty acres of land were
under tillage. Busy years of persistent and well-
directed toil followed, in which he made many
valuable improvements, so that his farm became
a fine piece of property. He made it his dwelling-
place until 1889, when he rented it on good terms,
and coming to Carlinville, has lived in retirement
in this city ever since. He bought a home, pleas-
antly located on the corner of Pine and Plum
Streets. It is a commodious brick house, and here
he enjoys all the comforts of life, free from care
and labor.

The parents of our subject were married in
1859. His mother bore the maiden name of Kate
Roelher. She was born in Bavaria, and was a
young lady when she came to America. She is
the mother of the following children: Adam, a
resident of Litchfield; John, who lives at Carlin-
ville; August J., a resilient of Chicago; 1' rank J.,
who carries on the drug business in Chicago;
Laurenz, a resident of Carlinville; William, a resi-
dent of St. Louis; Alois ami Clara, twins, living at
home with their parents; Albert and Anthony, also
at home, the four latter attending school; and
Maggie, who died at the age of one year-.

374

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

Dr. Link was given fine advantages for a sound
education and received his early instruction in
the public schools of his native township. He
subsequently pursued a thorough course of study
at the Wesleyan Seminary at Bloomington, where
he laid a solid foundation for his professional
studies. He began to read medicine at the age of
eighteen, with Dr. Long as his preceptor. He
made a rapid advance in Ii is pursuit of knowledge
ami in due time entered the Chicago Medical Col-
lege, from which institution he was graduated
with a good rank for scholarship in 1890. After
graduation lie opened an office at Carlinville, and
is steadily gaining a lucrative practice,- applying
himself closely to his professional duties, still find-
ing opportunity to keep himself well informed on
cut rent medical topics, keeping abreast of the
times as to new methods of treatment, and win-
ing golden opinions from his older medical breth-
ren. On the 10th of June, 1891, Dr. Link was
married to Miss Lina M. Michel, of St. Louis.

•-**• .$S^-

!>HOMAS J. TURNER. It is a truism that
early observation and discipline make so
indelible an impression on the after life as
to give it its whole tone. Our subject, who is a
farmer, owning and residing on one hundred and
twenty acres on section 1 1, North Otter Township,
was born and reared on a farm in England, where
agriculture is carried on as a science, and the earth
is made to yield the fullest possible amount. Al-
though he left his native land while yet a lad, the
aspect of the home farms and their methods of cul-
tivation he brought with him to this country, and
his own farm bears evidence of his early impres-
sion.

Our subject's father was Thomas Turner, who
was born in Yorkshire, England. His mother was
Mary Ann (Sampson) Turner, born in the town of
Hull, Yorkshire, England. Mrs. Turner, our sub-
ject's mother, died in her native shire about 1851,
and her husband afterward married a sister of his
first wife, by name Charlotte Sampson. The father
with his famil}' emigrated to America in June,

18(35, with the intention of remaining, but he either
experienced unusual difficulty in becoming acclima-
ted or was suffering from some incipient disease,
and because of illness he returned with his wife the
following October to his native land, where they
remained until their death, he passing away in July,
1884. His wife, Charlotte Turner, died July 9,
about 1875.

Our subject's father was a farmer by occupation
and his children were brought up with a knowledge
of that calling. There were five children by the
first marriage. Our subject was the youngest child,
being born in Yorkshire, England, July 22, 1849,
and remaining there until fourteen years of age, at
which time he came to this country with his par-
ents. He remained in this county after his par.
ents returned to England, making his home with
the late Capt. Gelder, in Chesterfield Township for
a period of two years. At that time he came to
Virden Township and lived for one year with John
Gelder.

In the spring of 1868 Mr. Turner rented some
land in Sangamon County. Here he remained for
one year and then in company with his brother
William Turner, rented some land three miles from
his present location. After this he paid a visit to
his parents and friends in England, remaining dur-
ing the winter of 1871-72. He returned in the
spring of 1872, and has ever since been a resident
of North Otter Township with the exception of
about two years spent in California. He made a
trip to the Pacific Coast in October, 1882, and re-
turned in July, 1884. While there he was engaged
in farming and in the mercantile business, and buy-
ing and selling grain. Farming, however, has been
his chief business in life, and the tract of laud
whereon he is at present located bears evidence of
incessant work and intelligent improvement.

Mr. Turner was married in North Otter Town-
ship, February 11, 1873, his wife's maiden name
being Anna J. Chamberlin, a daughter of Nathan
and Lorette (Twitchcll) Chamberlin. Mrs. Turner
was born in the count}' in which she was married
April 11, 1853. She and her husband are the par-
ents of three children — Mary L., George N. and
Lena L. Mr. and Mrs. Turner are progressive peo-
ple, having great faith in the possibilities of the

RESIDENCE OF PHILIP SCH EU RER J 5 EC. 14. , BR I GHTON TP.,MACOUPIN CO., ILL.

RESIDENCE OF THOMAS J. TURNER SEC. 11., NORTH OTTER TP.,MACOUPl N CO., ILL.

11BRARY

OF THE

UMVFP^ • '■ .UNO!

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

377

future. He has been appointed School Director of
his district, in which capacity he has done efficient
service. Both arc members of the Methodist Epis-
copal Church.

Elsewhere in this volume may be found a view
of the commodious residence where Mr. and Mrs.
Turner are comfortably domiciled.

— **&&S&&te^

IIILIP SCHEURER, who is engaged in
genera] farming on sectious 1-t and 15,
Brighton Township, is one of the worthy
German citizens of the county. He was
born in Nassau, August 25, 183G, and is a son of
Christian and Catherine (Meichael) Schenrer. Un-
der the parental roof Philip was reared to man-
hood and in his native tongue acquired a good
education, such as fits one for the practical duties
of life. On attaining his majority when he felt it
time to begin life for himself, he decided to make
America the scene of his future labors and in Sep-
tember, 1857, sailed from Havre, France, reaching
New Orleans in December following. Boarding a
river vessel he came up the Mississippi to Alton,
and thence to Brighton, where he has since nade
his home. He had no capital, in fact had borrowed
£40 with which to pay the expenses of the journey
but he possessed a resolute will, a strong right arm
and a determination to succeed. He began as a
farm hand and as soon as he had acquired some
capital made purchase of land and developing a
good farm has since been numbered among the
leading agriculturists of the county.

After ten years Mr. Scheurer went back to his
native land on a visit and on his return to his
home brought with him his parents who continued
to reside with their son until their deaths. The
father, who was born in 1708, died in 1883, and
the mother who was born in 1811, died in 1885.
They were members of the German Lutheran
Church anil held in high esteem by all who knew
them. Mr. Scheurer at once resumed his farming
operations and developed the wild prairie into rich
and fertile fields, lie now has one hundred and

sixty acres of arable land under a high state of
cultivation besides considerable timber land.

Mr. Scheurer has been twice married. In Brigh-
ton Township he was joined in wedlock with Emma
Diel, who was born in Germany and when a child
came to this country with her parents, where she
was reared. She died in 1865, when not quite
twenty years of age, in the faith of the Catholic
Church of which she was a member. One child
was born of her marriage, who died before his
second birthday. Mr. Scheurer was afterward
united in marriage in Madison County with Miss
Margaret Fiinfcr, also a native of Germany, who
came alone to this country in 18G7. Her parents
spent their entire lives in the Fatherland. By this
union have been born seven children and the fam-
ily circle yet remains unbroken. They are as fol-
lows: Henry, Frank, Anna, Mary, Philip, Louisa
and Rosa. The parents are both members of the
Lutheran Church and in the social world they hold
an en.yiablc position, while throughout this com-
Dj|MaitftAheir friends are many. In politics, Mr.
Scheuret»4%yj^D.emocral, having voted with that
party for many years.

On another page appears a view of the home-
stead of Mr. Scheurer, which is justly considered
one of the linest in the community, the improve-
ments on it speaking volumes for the thrift and en-
terprise of the owner.

ILF L. SCHMIDT. The successful gen-
ii eral farmer who is located on section 2~ .
Gillespie Township, is the gentleman whose
name heads this sketch. He has lived on
his farm in the above-mentioned township for the
past three years, and he also owns a line farm of
two hundred and thirty-one acres, most of which
is well improved and well stocked; it also has very
good farm buildings. He formerly owned and lived
on another farm in this township.

Mr. Schmidt came to this county in 1869, and
has ever since lived in Gillespie Township, hav-
ing improved the property which he has owned to
:i very great degree. Twenty years ago our sub-

378

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

ject was a poor, laboring man. lie was born in the
Province of Hanover, Germany, April 18, 1853.
lie grew up and was educated in his native coun-
try and [Hides himself that he comes from a good
long-lived race of people. His father was born
and reared in Hanover, where he operated a small
farm, and there lived until the fall of the year 1890,
when he came to the United States and at once to
Illinois, joining his sons in theii home. The father
is now seventy-nine years of age, having nearly
reached that age when he crossed the ocean. He is
still hale and hearty and anticipates with great pleas-
ure the return voyage in a few months. He likes
the new country. 1ml feels that he is too fir
advanced in life to learn the language and ways
of Hie laud. He is a member of the Lutheran
Church and all his life has been characterized by
a simplicity of action, justness of purpose and the
greatest kindness of heart. Our subject's mother
was a Hanover lady, her maiden name being Han-
nah Meyer. She lived all her life in her native
province, where she died in 1871, being at the
time three-score years of age. She also was a
member of the Lutheran Church. She was the
mother of six children, of whom our subject is the
fourth in order of birth; two sons and one daughter
are still living. Our subject and two brothers,
Mona &. and Henry H., came to this country, the
former of whom now lives in Sheridan County,
Neb., at Hayes Springs, where he is a farmer; the
latter died after his arrival in this country. His
decease took place in Gillespie Township and
county.

Our subject was the first of his family to leave
the Fatherland. He took passage from Bremen on
the steamer "Bremen," leaving the harbor May
2G, 1869. After his landing in New York City
lie came on immediately to this county and town-
ship. Mr. Schmidt was soon afterward married
in this place to Miss Joanna D. Heien, who was
born in Hanover, Germany, April 4, 1851, being
only a few months old when her parents, William
and Doratere (Schoeling) Heien. came to this
country, leaving Bremen in the latter part of the
year 1851, and landing in New Orleans. In coming
North they ascended the Mississippi River to Al-
ton, where they lived for some time and then

came on to Macoupin County, where they settled
in Gillespie Township. The father procured one
hundred and sixty acres, upon which he made
many improvements, and upon which both par-
ents died, being comparatively young people at
the time of their deaths. The mother died five
years after coming to this country and the father
some years later. Like most of their countrymen,
they were members of the Lutheran Church.

Mrs. Schmidt, the wife of our subject, is the sec-
ond of five children and the only one now living
of the children born to her mother, the father
having had other children by another marriage.
Mrs. Schmidt was reared and educated in this
country. She is the mother of seven children,
iwo of whom died at an early age, namely:
William and Jessie. Her living children are:
Anna, Dora T., Fritz M., Wickie L. and Minnie, all
of whom are living at home. Mr. and Mrs. Schmidt
and the members of their family are attendants
upon and members of the Lutheran Church. Mr.
Schmidt is a Democrat in politics and a member
of the Farmers' Mutual Benefit Association.

^-^"?

TTO E HINTZ. A member of the firm of
Ilintz Bros., dealers in fresh and salt meats
' and buyers and shippers of live stock, whose
place of business is located on Warren Street, is the
gentleman of whom we give a brief history. He
has been doing business at his present location for
many years. It was formerly known as the old
meat market, first established by an older brother,
Ernest, now deceased, who opened it in 1870, and
was therewith connected until 1889. The business
has since been conducted by our subject and his
brother Charles, the latter operates in another shop
on the same street. Mr. Ilintz has been an active
partner in the business since 1882, and had, prior
to that time, been connected with the work of the
business since 1871. He is an expert carver of
meats, and is well acquainted with his trade, hav-
ing grown up in it and owning a perfectly-equipped
shop.

As his name would indicate, he is of German

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

379

parentage, being burn in Ilolstein, Germany, Octo-
ber 6, 1855. Here be grew up and received Ins
education, while under the roof of his father and
iiiui her. Like many other foreigners, America
seeming to offer golden promises, the father and
mother with other members of the family set out
on the long journey across I lie "three thousand
miles of wet" and in the spring of 1871, taking
passage on a German steamer at Hamburg, after
a stormy passage of nearly three weeks, they landed
in New York City, and came thence to Bunker
Hill, where he has ever since resided. During this
time he has made one trip back to Europe to bis
native home. He is a young man and possesses all
the sterling qualities that make the people of his
nation so successful and respected wherever they
may go. For a full history of his family see bio-
graphical sketch of Charles H. A. Hintz.

Our subject, who is a bachelor, lias proved him-
self a true American citizen by the interest that he
takes in affairs municipal and national. No paper
or petition would be complete without his name.
He is a member of the German Guttenberg Lodge,
D. O. 11., No. 402, of Bunker Hill, and has tilled
all the chairs in his lodge. In polities he is a strong
Republican.

\Tpy, ANSOM L. TWITCHKLL. Our subject is
L-/ a substantial farmer in the county, owning
tL \\\ one hundred and sixty acres on section a,
^@) North Otter Township. He is the son of
Sidney L. Twitchell of Virden, whose history will
be found under the sketch of S. L. Twitchell. The
original of our sketch is one of a family of five
children, he being the second, and was born in
Ninth Otter Township, January 13, 1855. He re-
mained at home until be reached manhood, receiv-
ing the advantages common among the farmer
boys of that district.

April 17, 1879, our subject was united in mar-
riage in North Otter Township to Miss Luora A.
Kable, a daughter of James Kable, of North Otter
Township, for whose history see sketcli of James
Kable on another page. Mrs. Twitchell was born

in Miami County, Ohio. October 15, 185G. Her
parents removed to this State during her early
maidenhood and settled on a farm here. She at-
tracted our subject by her bright winning way- and
housewifely capabilities and they have been very
happy in their union.

Five children have i-oiile to break the stillness Of
the family home. They are Edith S., Raleigh J.,
Fula M.. Charles S. and Harry A. All are living
and are children of whom their parents may well
be proud. Mr. Twitchell has been School Director
of the district. In politics he is a Republican.

-*- ^ -h

*=*REDERICK CHRISTIAN KEUNE. Many
I— (S); of the best and most reliable citizens of
/Jk Macoupin County did not have their na-
tivity in this land, but being of foreign birth and
parentage and having come to this country to bet-
ter their fortune! and provide more generously for
their children, they have adopted America fully
as their home and have aided freely in building
up our American institutions and promoting the
prosperity- of the community in which they live.
Among these there are none more industrious,
more frugal and more enterprising than our Ger-
man-American citizens, and Mr. Keune, who is
residing on section G, Shaw's Point Township, is a
worthy example of bis class. His push, pluck and
perseverance have earned for him a handsome
property, including a six hundred acre farm and
a line brick house, and his intelligence leads him to
thoroughly understand the genius of American in-
stitutions so as to work in harmony with bis fellow-
citizens.

Our subject was born in Germany, December
7, 1816. There he grew to manhood and under-
took the business of life. Louisa Hasten, to whom

he was united in marriage in their native h e,

was born in Germany in September, 1818, being
thus two years younger than her husband. Their
union was solemnized in Germany, April, 1842, and
a few years later, in the fall of 1852, tiny were con-
vinced that they might belter their fortunes by
coming to America. They had not been in this

380

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.

country long before they came to Macoupin County
and made a settlement in Shaw's Point Township,
where their home has been from that date to this.
Five of the nine children who blessed this union
are still upon earth, namely: Louisa, Lena, Henry,
Emma and Amelia. The other children died when
quite young. Upon the rich prairie lands of Illinois
Mr. Keunc has wrought out a fortune and has ac-
cumulated a property of which any man