Full text of "Portrait and biographical album of Woodford County, Illinois : containing full page portraits and biographical sketches of prominent and representative citizens of the county, together with portraits and biographies of all the governors of the state and of the presidents of the United States"

UNIVERSITY OF

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ALBUM

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, ILLINOIS,

CONTAINING

Full Page Portraits and Biographical Sketches of Prominent
and Representative Citizens of the County,

TOGETHER WITH

PORTRAITS AND BIOGRAPHIES OF ALL THE GOVERNORS OF THE STATE, AND
OF THE PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES.

CHICAGO:

CHAPMAN BROS.
1889.

UK greatest of English historians, MACAULAY, and one of the most brilliant writers of
the present century, has said: "The history of a country is best told in a record of the
lives of its people." In conformity with this idea the POKTKAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL
ALBUM uf this county has been prepared. Instead of going to must} 1 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 have accumulated wealth. It tells how others, with limited
advantages for securing an education, have become learned men and women, with an
influence extending throughout the length and breadth of the land. It tells of men who
have risen from the lower walks of life to eminence as statesmen, and whose names have
become famous. It tells of those in every walk in life who have striven to succeed, and
records how that success has usually crowned their efforts. It tells also of many, very
mnnv, 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 pence
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 this volume and preserve it as a sacred treasure, from the fact
that it contains so much that would never find its way into public records, and which would otherwise be
inaccessible. Great care has been taken in the compilation of the work and every opportunity possible
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 some, and biographical sketches of many, will be missed in this volume. For this the
publishers are not to blame. Not having a proper conception of the work, some refused to give the
information necessary to compile a sketch, while others were indifferent. Occasionally some member of
the 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.

CHAPMAN BROS.

CHICAGO, September, 188U.

OF THE.

OK THE.

OFTHE

*g:g^y^ ; :

FIJfST PRESIDENT.

E "WASH!

HE Father of our Country was
born in Westmorland Co., Va.,
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, first
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 he received private instruction in
mathemat ; cs. His spelling was rather defective.

Remarkable stories are told of his great physical
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
abandoned. 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 1751, though only 19 years of
age, he was appointed adjutant with the rank of
major in the Virginia militia, then being trained for
active service against the French and 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 military
escort, through a territory occupied by Indians. The

GEORGE WASHINGTON.

trip was a perilous one, and several limes he came near
losing his life, yet he returned in safety and furnished
a full and useful report of his expedition. A regiment
of 300 men was raised in Virginia and put in com-
mand of Col. Joshua Fry, and Major Washington was
commissioned lieutenant-colonel. Active war was
then begun against the French and Indians, in which
Washington took a most 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
af 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, 1774, to secure their common liberties,
peaceably if possible. To this Congress Col. Wash-
ington was sent as a delegate. On May 10, 1775, the
Congress re-assembled, when the hostile intentions of
England were plainly apparent. The battles of Con-
cord and Lexington had been fought. Among the
first acts of this Congress was the election of a com-
mander-in-chief of the colonial forces. This high and
responsible office was conferred upon Washington,
who was still a member of the Congress. He accepted
it on June 19, but upon the express condition that he
receive no salary. He would keep an exact account
of expenses and expect Congress to pay them and
nothing more. It is not the object of this sketch to
trace the military acts of Washington, to whom the
fortunes and liberties of the people of this country
were so long confided. The war was conducted by
him under 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, T783, 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 Febraary^Sg, Washington was unanimously
elected President. In his presidential career he was
subject to the peculiar trials incidental to a new
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-
dent, he returned to his home, hoping to pass there
his few remaining years 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 wi'h 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 being dull.

hECOND PRESIDENT.

2 3

OHN ADAMS, the second

President and the first Vice-
President of the United States,
was born in Braintree ( now
Quincy ) ( Mass., and about ten
miles from Boston, Oct. 19,
1735. His great-grandfather, Henry
Adams, emigrated from England
about 1640, with a family of eight
sons, and settled at Braiutree. 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-
cils, of diabolical malice, and Calvanistic good nature,' 1
of the operations of which he had been a witness in
his native town. He was well fitted for the legal
profession, possessing a clear, sonorous voice, being
ready and fluent of speech, and having quick percep-
tive powers. He gradually gained practice, and in
1764 married Abigail Smith, a daughter of a minister,
and a lady of superior intelligence. Shortly after his
marriage, (i7<>5), the attempt of Parliamentary taxa-
tion turned him from law to politics. He took initial
steps toward holdir. B 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 mcved
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 iive
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 tin
glow of excited feeling, he wrote a letter to his wile
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 see the
rays of light and glory. I can see that the end is
worth more than all the means; and that posterity
will triumph, although you and I may rue, which I
hope we shall not."

In November, 1777, Mr. Adams was appointed a
delegate to France and to co-operate with 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 proposels. 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, stilldroopinganddespond-
ing, he received dispatches from his own government
urging the necessity of his going to Amsterdam to
negotiate another loan. It was winter, his health was
delicate, yet he immediately set out, and through
storm, on sea, on horseback and foot,he made the trip.

February 24, 1785; Congress 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 orgar.-
ized, 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
emotion of gratitude and respect. It was his peculiar
good fortune to witness the complete success of the
institution which he had been so active in creating and
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,
"Jefferson survives." But he had, at one o'clock, re-
signed his spirit into the hands of his God.

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

THIRD PRESIDENT.

HOMAS JEFFERSON was
born April 2, 1743, at Shad-
well, 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-
ing been kept diligently at school
from the time he was five years of
age. In 1760 he entered William
and Mary College. Williamsburg was then the seat
of the Colonial Court, and it was the obode of fashion
a.id splendor. Young Jefferson, who was then 17
years old, lived somewhat expensively, keeping fine
horses, and much caressed by gay society, yet he
was earnestly devoted to his studies, and irreproacha-
able in his morals. It is strange, however, under
such influences,that he was not ruined. In the sec-
ond year of his college course, moved by some un-
explained inward impulse, he discarded his horses,
society, and even his favorite violin, to which he had
previously given much time. He often devoted fifteen
hours a day to hard study, allowing himself for ex-
ercise only a run in the evening twilight of a mile out
of the city and back again. He thus attained very
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, there
was a majestic swell of land, called Monticello, which
commanded a prospect of wonderful extent and
beauty. This spot Mr. Jefferson selected for his new
home; and here he reared a mansion of modest yet
elegant architecture, which, next to Mount Vernon,
became the most distinguished resort in our land.

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

THOMAS JEFFERSON.

man what the emotions that swelled his breast
who was charged with the preparation of that Dec-
laration, which, while it made known the wrongs of
America, was also to publish her to the world, free,
soverign and independent. It is one of the most re-
markable papers ever written ; and did no other effort
>)f 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
Monticello, 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. i, 1794. In T797,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
trunquility and peace of the Union; this was the con-
spiracy of Aaron Burr. Defeated in the late election
lo the Vice Presidency, and led on by an unprincipled
ambition, this extraordinary man formed the plan of a
military expedition into 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-
lic, 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 tht
Union for its celebration, as the nation's jubilee, and
the citizens of Washington, to add to the solemnity
of the occasion, invited Mr. Jefferson, as the framer.
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 no
hope of his recovery. From this time he was perfectly
sensible that his last hour was at hand. On the next
d:iy, which was Monday, he asked of those around
him, the day of the month, and on being told it was
the third of July, he expressed the earnest wish that
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 of a whole nation, who looked up to him,
as the author, under God, of their greatest blessings,
was all that was wanting to fill up the record his life.

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

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

FOURTH PRESIDENT.

npoisoi).

AMES MADISON, "Father
of the Constitution, 1 ' and fourth
President of the United States,
was born March 16, 1757, and
died at his home in Virginia,
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 lie 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 1771, 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 his subsf "
quent career.

Returning to Virginia, he commenced the study of
law and a course of extensive and systematic reading.
This educational course, the spirit of the times in
which he lived, and 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 of
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-loving 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 of his

3 2

/AMES 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
represented. George Washington was chosen
1 lent of the convention; and the present Consti-
tu 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 the 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 great nonchal-
ance he selects any number whom he may please to
designate as British subjects ; orders them down the
ship's side into his boat ; and places them on the gun-
deck of his man-of-war, to fight, by compulsion, the
battles of England. This right of search and im-
pressment, no efforts of our Government could induce
the British cabinet to relinquish.

On the 1 8th 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 party to the war, the country
in general approved; and Mr. Madison, on the 4th
of March, i8'3> was re-elected by a large majority,
and entered upon his second term of office. This is
not the place to describe the various adventures of
this war on the land and on the water. Our infant
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 Februaiy,
1813, in Chesapeake Bay, declaring nearly the whole
coast of the United States under blockade.

The Emperor of Russia offered his services as me
dilator. 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 marched 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 door 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 atGhent.

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.

FIFTH PRESIDENT.

AMES MONROE, the fifth
President 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 gloomy. The number of deserters increased
from day to day. The invading armies came pouring
in; and the lories 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 their
l>olitical 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 act of charg-
ing upon the enemy he received a wound in the left
shoulder.

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

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

JAMES MONROE.

lie was in the succeeding year chosen a member of
the Congress of the United States.
Deeply as Mr. Monroe felt the imperfections of the old
Confederacy, he was opposed to the new Constitution,
ihinking, with many others of the Republican parly,
shat 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
strict 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
right 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 country, 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. Their 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 put upon him. He was truly the armor-
bearer of President Madison, and the most efficient
business man in his cabinet. Upon the return of
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, 1817, was inaugurated. Four years
later he was elected for a second term.

Among the important measures of his Presidency
were the cession of Florida to the 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 second 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

J , o ,

SIXTH PRESIDENT.

Il^

OHN QUINCY ADAMS, the
sixth President of the United
States, was born in the rural
home of his honored father.
John Adams, in Quincy, Mass.,
on the i ith cf July, 1767. His
mother, a woman of exalted
worth, watched over his childhood
during the almost constant ab-
sence of 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 of 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
ol.ii Quincy accompanied his father. At Paris he
applied himself with great diligence, for six months,
to 3tudy; then accompanied his father to Holland,
where he entered, first a school in Amsterdam, then
the University at Leyden. About a year from this
time, in 1781, 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.

In 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 to
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 again
became associated with the most illustrious men of
all lands in the contemplations of the loftiest temporal
themes which can engross the human mind. After
a short visit to England he returned to Paris, and
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 twenty,
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 admiu
ted to the deliberations of Messrs. Jay and Pinckney,
assisting them in negotiating a commercial treaty with
Great Britian. After thus spending a fortnight in
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 Benin, but requesting
him to remain in London until he should receive his
instructions. While waiting he was married to an
American lady to whom he had been previously en-
gaged, Miss Louisa Catherine Johnson, daughter
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 the
elevated sphere for which she was destined.

JOHN QUINCY ADAMS.

He reached Berlin with his wife in November, 1797 ;
where he remained until July, 1799, when, havingful-
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
Quincy Adams minister to St. Petersburg. Resign-
ing his professorship in Harvard College, he embarked
at Boston, in August, 1809.

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

On the 4th of March, 1817, Mr. Monroe took the
Presidential chair, and immediately 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
1 8th of August, he again crossed the threshold of his
home in Quincy. During the eight yearsof Mr. Mon-
roe's administration, Mr. Adams continued Secretary
of State.

Some time before the close of Mr. Monroe's second
term of office, new candidates began to be presented
for the Presidency. The friends of Mr. Adams brought
forward his name. It was an exciting campaign.
Party spirit was never more bitter. Two hundred and
sixty electoral votes were cast. Andrew Jackson re-
ceived ninety-nine; John Quincy Adams, eighty-four;
William H. Crawford, forty -one ; Henry Clay, thirty-
se/en. 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.P nast 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 homein
Quincy, he has been known to walk, before breakfast,
seven miles to Boston. In Washington, it was said
that he was the first man up in the city, lighting his
own fire and applying himself to work in his library
often long before dawn.

On the 4th of March, 1829, Mr. Adams retired
from the Presidency, and was succeeded by Andrew
Jackson. John C. Caliioun 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 his death, he occupied the post as repre-
sentative, towering above all his peers, ever ready to
do brave battle' for freedom, and winning the title of
"the old man_ eloquent." 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, against
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 v
fourscore years, yielding to the simple faith of a little'
child, he was accustomed to repeat every night, before
he slept, the prayer which his mother taught him in
his infant years.

On the 2 1 st of February, 1848, he rose on the floor
of Congress, with a paper in his hand, to address the
speaker. Suddenly he fell, again stricken by paraly-
sis, and was caught in the arms of those around him.
For a time he was senseless, as he was conveyed to
the sofa in the rotunda. With reviving conscious-
ness, he opened his eyes, looked calmly around and
said " This is the end of earth /'then after a moment's
pause he added, ''/am content'' These were the
last words of the grand "Old Man Eloquent."

SEVENTH PRESILENT.

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

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

The brute drew his sword, and aimed a desperate
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
his death. They suffered much other ill-treatment, and
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 1788, he was appointed
solicitor for the western district of North Carolina, of
which Tennessee was then a part. This involved
many long and tedious journeys amid dangers of
every kind, but Andrew Jackson never knew fear,
and the Indians had no desire to repeat a skirmish
witn the Sharp Knife.

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

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

In January, ^96, the Territory of Tennessee then
containing nearly eighty thousand inhabitants, I he
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 lie was chosen Judge of the Supreme Court
of his State, which position he held for 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
> ould do credit to a commission if one were con-
ferred upon him. Just at that time Gen. Jackson
offered his services and those of twenty-five hundred
volunteers. His offer was accepted, and the troops
were assembled at Nashville.

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

Soon after this, while attempting to horsewhip Col.
Thomas H. Benton, for a remark that gentleman
made about his taking a part as second in a duel, in
which a younger 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 Tecutnseh from
Florida to the Lakes, to exterminate the white set-
tlers, were committing the most awful ravages. De-
cisive action became necessary. Gen. Jackson, with
his fractured bone just beginning to heal, his arm in
a sling, and unable to mount his horse without assis-
tance, gave his amazing energies to the raising of an
army to rendezvous at Fayettesville, Alabama.

The Creek Indians had established a strong ford on
one of the bends of the Tallapoosa 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
ilnys. 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
campaign to so successful an issue Immediately he
was appointed major-general.

Late in August, with an army of two thousand
men, on a rushing march, Gen. Jackson came to
Mobile. A British 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 Tune 8, 1845. The last years of Mr. Jack-
son's life were that of a devoted Christian man.

^ '7

EIGHTH PRESIDENT.

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 half 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.

He was decidedly a precocious boy, developing un-
usual activity, vigor and strength of mind. At the
age of fourteen, he had finished his academic studies
in his native village, and commenced the study of
law. As he 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
a lofty ambition, and conscious of his powers, he pur-
sued his studies with indefatigable industry. After
spending six yenrn in an office in his native village,

he went to the city of New 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 thai 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, tli.
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 cave his strenuous support to
Mr. Madison's adminstration. In 1815, he was 'ap-
pointed Attorney-General, and the next year moved '
to Albany, the capital of the State.

While he was acknowledged us one of the most
p. ominent leaders of the Democratic party, he had

MARTIN VAN BUREN.

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

In 1821 he was elected a member of the United
States Senate; and in the same year, he took a seat
in the convention to revise the constitution of his
native State. His course in this convention secured
the approval of men of all parties. No one could
doubt the singleness of his endeavors to promote the
interests of all classes in the community. In the
Senate of the United States, he rose at once to a
conspicuous position as an active and useful legislator.

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

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

When Andrew Jackson was elected President he
appointed Mr. Van Buren Secretary of State. This
jw.iition he resigned in 1831, and was immediately
appointed Minister to England, where he went the
same autumn. The Senate, however, when it met,
refused to ratify the nomination, and he returned

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

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

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

With the exception of being nominated for the
Presidency 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, of
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.

NINTH PRESIDENT.

ILLIAM HENRY HARRI-
SON, the ninth President of
the United States, was born
at Berkeley, Va., Feb. 9, 1773.
His father, Benjamin Harri-
son, was in comparatively op-
ulent circumstances, and was
one of the most distinguished
men of his day. He was an
intimate friend of George
Washington, was 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,
j 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, where he graduated
with honor soon after the death of his father. He
chen repaired to Philadelphia to study medicine under
the instructions of Dr. Rush and the guardianship of
Robert Morris, both of whom were, with his father,
signers of the Declaration of Independence.

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

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

In the spring of 1800 the North-western -Territory
was divided by Congress into two portions. The
eastern portion, comprising the region now embraced
in the State of Ohio, was called '' The Territory
north-west of the Ohio." The western portion, which
included what is now called Indiana, Illinois and
Wisconsin, was called the "Indiana Territory." Wil-
liam Henry Harrison, then 27 years of age, was ap-
pointed by John Adams, Governor of the Indiana
Territory, and immediately after, also Governor of
Upper Louisiana. He v. as 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. About

5 2

WILLIAM HENRY HARRISON.

the year 1806, two extraordinary men, twin brothers,
of the Shawnese tribe, rose among them. One of
those 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 in which he might
engage. He was inspired with the highest enthusiasm,
a. id had long regarded with dread and with hatred
the encroachment of the whites upon the hunting-
grounds of his fathers. His brother, the Prophet, was
anorator, who could sway the feelings of the untutored
Indian as the gale tossed the tree -tops beneath which
.hey dwelt.

But the Prophet was not merely an orator: he was,
: i the superstitious minds of the Indians, invested
vith the superhuman dignity of a medicine-man or a
a igician. With an enthusiasm unsurpassed by Peter
ihe Hermit rousing Europe to the crusades, he went
frum 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 march. When
near the Prophet's town three Indians of rank made
their appearance and inquired why Gov. Harrison was
approaching them in so hostile an attitude. After a
short conference, arrangements were made for a meet-
ing the next day, to agree upon terms of peace.

But Gov. Harrison was too well acquainted with
the Indian character to be deceived by such protes-
tations. Selecting a favorable 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 accourtrements on, his
loaded musket by his side, and his bayonet fixed. The
wakeful Governor, between three and four o'clock in
the morning, had risen, and was sitting in conversa-
tion with his aids by the embers of a waning fire. It
was a chill, cloudy morning with a drizzling rain. In
the darkness, the Indians had crept as near as possi-
ble, and just then, with a savage yell, rushed, with all
the desperation which superstition and 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 accompained by a shower of bullets.

The camp-fires were instantly extinguished, as the
light aided the Indians in their aim. With hide-
tus 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 thf foe.

Gov. Harrison now had all his energies tasked
to the utmost. The British descending from the Can -
adas, were ot 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
lashed over his saddle Thirty-five British officers,
his prisoners of war, supped with him after the battle
The only fare he could give them was beef roasted
before the fire, without bread or salt.

In 1816, Gen. Harrison was chosen a member of
the National House of Representatives, to represent
the District of Ohio. In Congress he proved an
active member; and whenever he spoke, it was with
force of reason and power of eloquence, which arrested
the attention of all the members.

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

In 1836, the friends of Gen. Harrison brought him
forward as a candidate for the Presidency against
Van JJuren, 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 anv 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
pleurisv-fever and after a few days of violent sick-
ness, died on the 4th of April ; just one month after
his inauguration as President of the United States.

TENTH PRESIDENT.

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 partly 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-
I et of the court in which he was
not retained. When but twenty-one years of age, he
was almost unanimously elected to a seat in the State
Legislature. He connected himself with the Demo-
cratic party, and warmly advocated the measures of
Jefferson and Madison. For five successive years he
was elected to the Legislature, receiving nearly the
unanimous vote or his county.

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

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

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

In accordance with his professions, upon taking his
seat in the Senate, he joined tha 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 rpl:t in the Democratic

JOHN TYLER.

party. 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,
lor the better education of his children ; and he again
took his seat in the Legislature of Virginia.

By the Southern Whigs, he was sent to the national
convention at Harrisburg to nominate a President in
1839. The majority of votes were given to Gen. Har-
rison, a genuine Whig, much to the disappointment of
the South, who wished for Henry Clay. To concili-
ate the Southern Whigs and to secure their vote, the
convention then nominated John Tyler for Vice Pres-
ident. It was well known that he was not in sympa-
thy with the Whig party in the 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 1841, 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 found 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 reccommcnded a
day of fasting and prayer, that God would guide and
bless us.

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

approve of a bill 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.
It is said that Mr. Tyler was provoked to this meas-
ure by a published letter from the Hon. John M.
Botts, a distinguished Virginia Whig, who severely
touched the pride of the President.

The opposition now exultingly received the Presi-
dent into their arms. The party which elected him
denounced him bitterly. 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. Mr. Webster soon found it necessary to resign,
forced out by the pressure of his Whig friends. Thus
the four years of Mr. Tyler's unfortunate administra-
tion passed sadly away. No one 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 at the close of his term,
he gave his whole influence to the support of Mr.
Polk, the Democratic candidate for his successor.

On the 4th of March, 1845, he retired from the
harassments of office, to the regret of neither party, and
probably to his own unspeakable iclief. 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 n>esided, he was taken sick and soon died.

ELEVENTH PRESIDENT.

AMES K. POLK, the eleventh
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 1 3o6, with his wife

and children, and soon after fol-

lowed by most of the members of
the Polk fatnly, 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 of a surveyor to that of a farmer,
gradually increased in wealth until
he became one of the leading men of the region. His
mother was a superior woman, of strong common
sense and earnest piety.

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

sedentary life, got a situation for him behind the
counter, hoping to fit him for commercial pursuits.

This was to James a bitter disappointment. He
had no taste for these duties, and his daily tasks
were irksome in the 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. Folk's health was at this
time much impaired by the assiduity with which he
had prosecuted his studies. After a short season of
relaxation he went to Nashville, and entered the
office of Felix Grundy, to study law. Here Mr. Polk
renewed his acquaintance with Andrew Jackson, who
resided on his plantation, the Hermitage, but a few
miles from Nashville. They had probably been
slightly acquainted before.

Mr. Polk's father was a Jeffersonian Republican,
and James K. Polk ever adhered to the same politi-
cal faith. He was a popular public speaker, and was
constantly called upon to address the meetings of his
party friends. His skill as a speaker was such that
he was popularly called the Napoleon of the stump.
He was a man cf unblemished morals, ger.ir.l ,T. d

JAMES K. POLK.

lourterus in his bearing, and with that sympathetic
nature in the joy 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., Tenn. His bride was
altogether worthy of him, a lady of beauty and cul-
ture. In the fall of 1825, Mr. Polk was chosen a
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-
tinuec-' in that office. He then voluntarily withdrew,
only that he might accept the Gubernatorial chair
of Imnessee. 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 4th of 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 west, 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 war
was declared against Mexico by President Polk. The
war was pushed forward by Mr. Folk's administration
with great vigor. Gen. Taylor, whose army was first
called one of "observation," then of "occupation,"
then of "invasion, "was sent forward to Monterey. The
feeble Mexicans, in every encounter, were hopelessly
and awfully slaughtered. The day of judgement
alone can reveal the misery which this war caused.
It was by the ingenuity of Mr. Polk's administration
that the war was brought on.

'To the victors belong the spoils." Mexico was
prostrate before us. Her capital was in our hands.
We now consented to peace upon the condition that
Mexico should surrender to us, in addition to Texas,
all of New Mexico, and all of Upper and Lower Cal-
ifornia. This new demand embraced, exclusive of
Texas, eight hundred thousand square miles. This
was an extent of territory equal to nine States of the
size of New York. Thus slavery was securing eighteen
majestic States to be added to the Union. There were
some Americans who thought it all right : there 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, 1849, Mr. Polk retired from
office, having served one term. The next day was
Sunday. On the 5th, Gen. Taylor was inaugurated
as his successor. Mr. Polk rode to the Capitol in the
same carriage with Gen. Taylor; and the same even-
ing, with Mrs. Polk, he commenced his return to
Tennessee. He was then but fifty-four years of age.
He had ever been strictly temperate in all his habits,
and his health was good. With an ample fortune,
a choice library, a cultivated mind, and domestic ties
of 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 isth of June, 1849, in the fifty-fourth
year of his age, greatly mourned by his countrymen.

TWELFTH PRESIDENT.

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wXSf/ilffr'Afff-l

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
-nanifested 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 1808, 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 1812, 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 1812, 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 and prolonged tor-
ture. No pen can describe, no immagination can
conceive the scenes which ensued. The savages suc-
ceeded in setting fire to one of the block-houses-
Until 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, MajorTaylorwas.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 looks, no society, no in-

ZACHARY TAYLOR.

tellectual 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 liis 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,
hac 1 promised they should do. The services rendered
he.c 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 on, 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.'

Tne tidings of the brilliant victory of Buena Vista
pread the wildest enthusiasm over the country. The
name of Gen. Taylor was on every one's lips. The
Whig party decided to take advantage of this wonder-
ful popularity in bringing forward the unpolished, un-
lettered, honest soldier as their candidate for the
Presidency. Gen. Taylor was astonished at the an-
nouncement, and for a. time would not listen toil; de-
rlaring 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
ti.iir 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
Indians

In the midst of all these troubles, Gen. Taylor,
after he had occupied the Presidential chair but little
over a year, took cold, and after a brief sickness of
but little over five days, died on the pth 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 thoroughly 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 short,
few men have ever had a more comfortable, labor-
saving contempt for learning of every kind."

THIRTEENTH PRESIDENT.

FILLMHRE^

ILLARD FILLMORE, thir-
teenth President of the United
States, was born at Summer
Hill, Cayuga Co., N. Y ., on
the 7th of January, 1800. His
father was a farmer, and ow-
ing to misfortune, in humble cir-
cumstances. Of his mother, the
daughter of Dr. AbiatharMillard,
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
1831 ; 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 occasionally 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.
Near 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 for knowledge became insatiate ;
and the selections which he made were continually
more elevating and instructive. He read history,
biography, oratory, and thus gradually there was en-
kindled in his heart a desire to be something more
than a mere worker with his hands; and he was be-
coming, almost unknown to himself, a well-informed,
educated man.

The young clothier had now attained the age of
nineteen years, and was of fine personal appearance
and of gentlemanly demeanor. It so happened that
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,
no friends to help him and that his previous educa-
tion had been very imperfect. But Judge Wood had
so much confidence in him that he kindly offered to
take him into his own office, and to loan him such
money as he needed. Most gratefully the generous
offer was accepted.

There is in many minds a strange delusion 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 as

MILLARD FILLMORE.

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

In 1823, when twenty-three years of age, he was
admitted to the Court of Common Pleas. He then
went to the village of Aurora, and commenced the
practice of law. In this secluded, peaceful region,
his practice of course was limited, and there was no
opportunity for a sudden rise in fortune or in fame.
Here, 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 liis 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 degree 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
arena 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 strength 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 tiumpet-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,
Gen. Taylor was inaugurated President, and Millard
Fillmore Vice-President, of the United States.

On the gth 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. Fillniore had very serious difficulties to contend
with, since the opposition had a majority in both
Houses. He did everything in his power to conciliate
the South ; but the pro-slavery party in the South felt
the inadequacy of all measuresof transient conciliation.
The population of the free States was so rapidly in-
creasing over that of the slave States that it was in-
evitable that the power of the Government 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.

FOURTEENTH PRESIDENT.

PIERCE

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l.t.t*&A.tW-.4^^^

RANKLIN PIERCE, the
fourteenth President of the
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 speakingkind 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 popular young men in the college.
The purity of 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 years. 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 which her husband was honoted. Of the

FRANKLIN PIERCE.

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

In the year 1838, Mr. Pierce, with growing fame
and increasing business as a lawyer, took up his
residence in Concord, the capital of New Hampshire.
President Polk, 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. L, on the zyth 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 1 2th of June, 1852, the Democratic conven-
tion met in Baltimore to nominate a candidate for the
Presidency. For four days they continued in session,
and in thirty-five ballotings no one had obtained a
two-thirds vote. Not a vote thus far had been thrown
for Gen. Pierce. Then the Virginia delegation
brought forward his name. There were fourteen
more ballotings, during which Gen. Pierce constantly-
gained strength, until, at the forty-ninth ballot, he
received two hundred and eighty-two votes, and all
other candidates eleven. Gen. Winfield Scott was
the Whig candidate. Gen. Pierce was chosen with
great unanimity. Only four States Vermont, Mas-
sachusetts, Kentucky and Tennessee cast their
electoral votes against him Gen. Franklin Pierce
"as 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
Pierce were forgotten in deep reprehension of his ad-
ministrative acts. The slaveholders of the South, also,
unmindful of the fidelity with which he had advo-
cated those measures of Government which they ap-
proved, and perhaps, also, feeling that he had
rendered himself so unpopular as no longer to be
able acceptably to serve them, ungratefully dropped
him, and nominated James Buchanan to succeed him.

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

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

FIFTEENTH PRESIDENT.

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
S the 23d of April, 1791. The place
where the humble cabin of his
father stood was called Stony
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 I relar.d ;
a ]xx)f 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 wilh
facility.

In the year 1809, he graduated with the highest
honors of his class. He was then eighteen years of
age; tall and graceful, vigorous in health, fond of
athletic 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 the
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 1820, he reluctantly consented to run as a
candidate for Congress. He was elected, and for
ten years he remained a member of the Lower House.
During the vacations of Congress, he occasionally
tried some important case. In 1831, he retired
altogether from the toils of his profession, having ac-
quired an ample fortune.

Gen. Jackson, upon his elevation to llie 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
1833, 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 Jackson, of making repri-

7 6

JAMES BUCHANAN.

sals against France, to enforce the payment of our
claims against that country ; and defended the course
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 He.ny 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,"
s.iid he, " might as well undertake to interfere with
slavery under a foreign government as in any of the
States where it now exists."

U|X>n Mr. Folk'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 1050,
which included the fugitive-slave law. Mr. Pierce,
u:ion 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-
reived 1 14 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
years 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 ot the Government, that they
might rear upon the ruins of our free institutions a
nation whose corner-stone should be human slavery
[n 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
party 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 institution.

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. T hit-
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, 1860; nearly
three months before the inauguration of President
Lincoln. Mr. Buchanan looked on in listless despair.
The rebel flag was raised in Charleston; FortSumpter
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 awny,
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 i, 1868.

SIXTEENTH

LINCOLN. >

BRAHAM LINCOLN, the
sixteenth President of the
United States, was born in
Hardin Co., Ky., Feb. 12,
1 809. About the year \ 7 80, a
man by the name of Abraham
Lincoln left Virginia with his
family and moved into the then
wilds of Kentucky. Onlytwo 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
laborer in the fields of others.

When twenty-eight years of age he buili 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 hav 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. Thi>re were joys and
griefs, weddings and funerals. Abraham's sister
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 their
small lot of enclosed prairie planted with corn, wre.i
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 aident spirits were causing, and became
strictly temperate; refusing to allow a drop of intoxi-
cating liquor to pass his lips. And he had read in
God's word, "Thou shall not take the name of the
Lord thy God in vain ;" and a profane expression he
was never heard to utter. Religion he revered. His
morals were pure, and he was uncontaminated by a
single vice.

Young Abraham worked for a time as a hired laborer
among the farmers. Then he went to Springfield,
where he was employed in building a large flat-boat.
Tn this he took a herd of swine, floated them down
ilie 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 advcn-

ABRAHAM LINCOLN.

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

In 1832, at the outbreak of the Black Hawk war, he
enlisted and was chosen captain of a company. He
returned to Sangamon County, and although only 23
years of age, was a candidate for the Legislature, but
was defeated. He soon after received from Andrew
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.
Stiiart, of Springfield, advised him to study law. He
walked from New Salem to Springfield, borrowed of
.\it. Stuart a load of books, carried them back and
!jega.n his legal studies. When the Legislature as-
sjiuhled he trudged on foot with his pack on his back
o .e 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 Senatpr 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
slavery 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 r6th of June, 1860. 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
only, 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 was 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 frouglu
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 auy possible communi-
cation on the part ot the Secessionists with their Con-
federate gang in Baltimore, as soon as the train had
started the telegraph-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^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 1861, however, plans had been
made for his assassination,and he at last fell a victim
to one of them. April 14, 1865, he, with Gen. Grant,
was urgently invited to attend Fords' Theater. It
was announced that they would Le present. Gen.
Grant, however, left the city. President Lincoln, feel-
ing, witn his characteristic kindliness of heart, that
it would be a disappointment if he should fail them,
very reluctantly consented to go. While listening to
the play an actor by the name of John Wilkes Booth
entered the 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; hisc^vintry-
men being unable to decide whii-h is tl-y greater.

S VENTEENTH PRESIDENT,

NDREW JOHNSON, seven-
teenth President of the United
States. The early life of
Andrew Johnson contains but
the record of poverty, destitu-
tion and friendlessness. He
was born December 29, 1808,
in Raleigh, N. C. His parents,
belonging to the class of the
"poor whites " of the South, were
in such circumstances, that they
could not confer even the slight-
est advantages of education upon
their child. When Andrew was five
years of age, his father accidentally
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,
learned his letters. He then called upon the gentle-
man to borrow the book of speeches. The owner,

pleased with his zeal, not only gave him the booic
but assisted him in learning to combine the letter:
into words. Under such difficulties he pressed o;_
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 ^ an
Buren's claims to the Presidency, in opposition to thosv
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 res]X>nsible posi-
tions, he discharged his duties with distinguished abi.

8 4

ANDREW JOHNSON.

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

Years before, in 1845, he had warmly advocated
the annexation of Texas, stating however, as his
reason, that he thought this annexation would prob-
ably prove " to be the gateway out of which the sable
sons of Africa are to pass from bondage to freedom,
and become merged in a population congenial to
themselves." In 1850, he also supported the com-
promise measures, the two essential features of which
were, that the white people of the Territories should
be permitted to decide for themselves whether they
would enslave the colored people or 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
wa.s the choice of the Tennessee Democrats for the
Presidency. In 1861, when the purpose of the South-
2rn 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-
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
him. The change of one vote from the not guilty
side would have sustained the impeachment.

The President, for the remainder of his term, was
but little regarded. He continued, though impotent!;-;
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 day s 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.

EIGHTEENTH PRESIDENT.

LYSSES S. GRANT, the
eighteenth President of the
United States, was born on
the 2Qth of April, 1822, of
4" 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 the
middle in his class, and was sent as lieutenant of in-
fantry to one of the distant military posts in the Mis-
souri Territory. Two years he past in these dreary
solitudes, watching the vagabond and exasperating
Indians.

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

From Monterey he was sent, with the fourth infantry,
vo 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 1860. As the tidings
of the rebels firing on Fort Sumpter reached the ears
of Capt. Grant in his counting-room, he said,
" Uncle Sam has educated me for the army ; though
I have served him through one war, I do not feel that
I have yet repaid the debt. I am still ready to discharge
my obligations. I shall therefore buckle on my sword
and see Uncle Sam through this war too."

He went into the streets, raised a company of vol-
unteers, and led them as their captain to Springfield,
the capital of the State, where their services were
offered to Gov. Yates. The Governor, impressed by
the zeal and straightforward executive ability of Capt.
Grant, gave him a desk in his office, to assist in the
volunteer organization that was being formed in the
State in behalf of the Government. On the 15 th 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 tc the aid
of Gens. Rosecrans and Thomas at Chattanooga, and
by a wonderful series of strategic and technical meas-
ures put the Union Army in fighting condition. Then
followed the bloody battles at Chattanooga, Lookout
Mountain and Missionary Ridge, in which the rebels
were routed with great loss. This won for him un-
bounded praise in the North. On the 4th of Febru-
ary, 1864, Congress revived the grade of lieutenant-
general, and the rank was conferred on Gen. Grant.
He repaired to Washington to receive his credentials
a.:id enter upon !b<" 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,
r885, the nation went in mourning over the death of
the illustrious General.

,^i

NINETEENTH PRESIDENT.

TEIf ZR ! \P15r !
&4 J3LJIL J| JJ:

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 farbackas 1280, when Hayes and
Rutherford were two Scottish chief-
tains,' fighting side by side with
Baliol, William Wallace and Robert
Bruce. Both families belonged to the
nobility, owned extensive estates,
and had a large following. Misfor-
tune ovt-r<aking 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 scythe;! at Bradford, Conn. Rutherford Hayes,
son of Ezekiel ai<d grandfather of President Hayes, was
born inNewHaven, 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 1812, for reasons inexplicable
to his neighbors, he resolved to emigrate to Ohio.

The journey from Vermont to Ohio in that day,
when there were no canals, steamers, nor railways,
was a very serious affair. A tour of inspection was
first made, occupying four months. Mr. Hayes deter-
mined to move to Delaware, where the family arrived
in 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 JB. HAYES.

subject of this sketch was so feeble at birth 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. Haves' baby died
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
mm, 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 r.eed 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 circumstances
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; but he
was afterwards sent for one year to a professor in the
Wesleyan University, in Middletown, Conn. He en-
tered Kenyon College in 1838, at the age of sixteen,
and was graduated at the head of his class in 1842.

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

In 1845, after graduating at the Law School, he was
admitted to the bar at Marietta, Ohio, and shortly
afterward went into practice as an attorney-at-Iaw
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 other was his introduction to the Cin-
cinnati Literary Club, a body embracing among its
members suck men as^hief Justice Salmon P. Chase,

Gen. John Pope, Gov. Edward F. Noyes, and many
others hardly less distinguished in after life. The
marriage was a fortunate one in every respect, as
everybody knows. Not one of all the wives of our
Presidents was more universally admired, reverenced
and beloved than was Mrs. Hayes, and no one did
more than she to reflect honor upon American woman-
hood. The Literary Cluo 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 bashfulness and
modesty.

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

In 1861, when the Rebellion broke out, he was at
the zenith of his professional life. His rank at the
bar was among the the first. But the news of the
attack on Fort Sumpter found him eager to take up
arms for the defense of his country.

His military record was bright and illustrious. In
October, 1861, he was made Lieutenant-Colonel, and
in August, 1862, promoted Colonel of the 791)1 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 services in the battles
of Winchester, Fisher's Hill and Cedar Creek, he was
promoted Brigadier-General. He was also brevetted
Major-General, "for gallant and distinguished services
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 corne 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 popular 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 the 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, hcwever, with satisfaction to his party,
but his administration was an average one,

TWENTIETH PRESIDENT.

AMES A. GARVIELD, twen-
tieth President of the United
States, was born Nov. 19,
1831, in the woods of Orange,
Cuyahoga Co., O His par-
ents were Abram and Eliza
(Ballou) Garfield, both of New
England ancestry and from fami-
lies well known in the early his-
tory of that section of our coun-
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
..as about 20x30 feet, built of logs, with the spaces be-
.ween 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.
The household comprised the father and mother and
heir four children Mehetabel, Thomas, Mary and
ames. In May, 1823, the father, from a cold con-
. /acted in helping to put out a forest fire, died. At
ihis time James was about eighteen months old, and
Thomas about ten years old. No one, perhaps, can
(ell how much James was indebted to his biother's
ceil and self-sacrifice during the twenty years suc-
ceeding his father's death, but undoubtedly very
much. He now lives in Michigan, and the two sis-
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 they
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 of bread earned by the
sweat of the brow. He was ever the simple, plain,
modest gentleman.

The highest ambition of young Garfield until he
was about sixteen years old was to be a captain of
a vessel on Lake Erie. He was anxious to go aboard
a vessel, which his mother strongly opposed. She
finally consented to his going to Cleveland, with the
understanding, however, that he should try to obtain
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. He re-
mained at this work but a short time when he went
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 which
he graduated in 1856, taking one of the highest hon-
ors of his class. He afterwards returned to Hiram
College as its President. As above slated, 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 relicion ;

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-
tarian charity for all 'who loveour Lord in sincerity.'"

Mr. Garfield was united in marriage with Miss
Lucretia Rudolph, Nov. 1 1, 1858, who proved herself
worthy as the wife of one whom all the world loved and
mourned. To them were born seven children, five of
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 Court-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 Geu Garfield was
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 a
tribunel of the American people, in regard to which
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 favor with the people, and by the first
of July he had completed all the initiatory and pre-
liminary work of his administration and was prepar-
ing to leave the city to meet his friends at Williams
College. While on his way and at the depot, in com-
pany with Secretary Elaine, 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 people
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.

TWENTY-FIRST PRESIDENT.

HESTER A. ARTHUR,
twenty-first Presi' 4 ui of the
United States, was born in
Franklin Courty, Vermont, on
thefifthofOc'ober, 1830, and is
the oldest of a family of two
sons and five daughters. His
father was the Rev. Dr. William
Arthur, aBaptistc'',rgyman,who
emigrated to tb.s country from
the county Antrim, Ireland, in
his i8th year, and died in 1875, ' n
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
I being admitted to 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
soon afterward marred 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 Superioi
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

100

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 1861, he was made Inspec-
tor General, and soon afterward became Quartermas-
ter-General. In each of these offices he rendered
great service to the Government during the war. At
the end of Governor Morgan's term he resumed the
practice of the law, forming a partnership with Mr.
Ransom, and then Mr. Phelps, the District Attorney
of New York, 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 the continent. It
was composed of the leading 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
iVlarch 4, 1881, as President and Vice-President.
A few months only had passed ere the newly chosen
President was the victim of the assassin's bullet. Then
came terrible weeks of suffering, those moments of
anxious suspense, when the hearts of all civilized na-

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

At last God in his mercy relieved President Gar-
field from further suffering, and the world, as never
before in its history over the death of any other
man, wept at his bier. Then it became the duty of
the Vice President to assume the responsibilities of
the high office, and he took the oath in New York.
Sept. 20, 1881. The position was an embarrassing
one to him, made doubly so from the facts that all
eyes were on him, anxious to know what he would do,
what policy he would pursue, and who he would se-
lect as advisers. The duties of the office had been
greatly neglected during the President's long illness,
and many important measures were to be immediately
decided by him ; and still farther to embarrass him he
did not fail to realize under what circumstances he
became President, and knew the feelings of many on
this point. Under these trying circumstances President
Arthur took the reins of the Government in his own
hands ; and, as embarrassing as were the condition of
affairs, he happily surprised the nation, acting so
wisely that but few criticised his administration.
He served the nation well and faithfully, until the
close of his administration, March 4, 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.

TWENTY-SECOND PRESIDENT.

TEPHEN GROVER CLEVE-
LAND, the twenty- second Pres-
ident of the United States, was
born in 1837, in the obscure
town of Caldwell, Essex Co.,
N. J., and in a little two-and-a-
half-story white house which is still
standing, characteristically to mark
the humble birth-place of one of
America's great men in striking con-
trast with the Old World, where all
men high in office must be high in
origin and born in the cradle of
wealth. When the subject of this
sketch was three years of age, his
father, who was a Presbyterian min-
ister, with a large family and a small salary, moved,
by way of the Hudson River and Erie Canal, to
Fayetteville, in search of an increased income and a
larger field of work. Fayetteville was then the most
straggling of country villages, about five miles from
Pompey Hill, where Governor Seymour was born.

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

emphatic desire to be sent to an academy. To this
his father decidedly objected. Academies in those
days cost money; besides, his father wanted him to
become self-supporting by the quickest possible
means, and this at that time in Fayetteville seemed
to be a position in a country store, where his father
and the large family on his hands had considerable
influence. Grover was to be paid $50 for his services
the first year, and if he proved trustworthy he was to
receive $100 the second year. Here the lad com-
menced his career as salesman, and in two years he
had earned so good a reputation for trustworthiness
that his employers desired to retain him for an in-
definite length of time. Otherwise he did not 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 his

104

5. G ROVER 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
sk the advice of his uncle, Lewis F. Allan, a noted
stock-breeder of that place. The latter did not
speak enthusiastically. " What is it you want to do,
my boy?" he asked. "Well, sir, I want to study
law," was the reply. " Good gracious ! " remarked
ihe old gentleman ; " do you, indeed ? What ever put
that into your head ? How much money have you
got?" "Well, sir, to tell the truth, I haven't got
anv."

After a long consultation, his uncle offered him a
place temporarily as assistant herd-keeper, at $50 a
year, while he 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
ne 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 ;
but 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
"t," was practically his motto.

The first public office to which Mr. Cleveland was
eiected was that of Sheriff of Erie Co., N. Y., in
which Buffalo is situated ; and in such capacity it fell
to his duty to inflict capital punishment upon two
criminals. In 1881 he was elected Mayor of the
City of Buffalo, on the Democratic ticket, with es-
pecial reference to the bringing about certain reforms

in the administration of the municipal affairs of that
city. In this office, as well as that of Sheriff, his
performance of duty has generally been considered
fair, with possibly a few exceptions which were fer-
reted out and magnified during the last Presidential
campaign. As a specimen of his plain language in
a veto message, we quote ftom 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 ia 1882,
and his administration of the affairs of State was
generally satisfactory. The mistakes he made, if
any, were made very public throughout the nation
after he was nominated for President of the United
States. For this high office he was nominated July
ii, 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 lie
was elected by the people, by a majority of about a
thousand, over the brilliant and long-tried Repub-
lican statesman, James G. Elaine. President Cleve-
land resigned his office as Governor of New York in
January, 1885, in order to prepare for his duties as
the Chief Executive of the United States, in which
capacity his term commenced at noon on the 4th of
March, 1885. For his Cabinet officers he selected
the following gentlemen: For Secretary of State,
Thomas F. Bayard, of Delaware ; Secretary of the
Treasury, Daniel Manning, of New York ; Secretary
of War, William C. Endicott, of Massachusetts ;
Secretary of the Navy, William C. Whitney, of New
York ; Secretary of the Interior, L. Q. C. Lamar, of
Mississippi; Postmaster-General, William F. Vilas,
of Wisconsin ; Attorney-General, A. H. Garland, of
Arkansas.

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

TWENTY-THIRD PRESIDENT.

107

BENJAMIN HARRISON, the
twenty-third President, is
the descendant of one of the
historical families of this
country. The head of the
f.imily was a Major General
Harrison, one of Oliver
Cromwell's trusted follow-
ers and fighters. In the zenith of Crom-
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, 1660. His descendants
came to America, and the next of the
family that appears in history is Benja-
min I-Iarrison, 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 1774-5-6, and was one of the original
signers of the Declaration of Independence. He
was 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 after his inauguration.
President Harrison wap 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 tha
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
cinnati and then read law for two years. At tht
expiration of that time young Harrison received th';
only inheritance of his life ; his aunt dying left ilia:
a lot valued at $800. He regarded this legacy as t
fortune, and decided to get married at once, laks
this money and go to some Eastern town an! be-
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. lie

108

BENJAMIN HARRISON.

decided to go to Indianapolis, which was even at
that 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 1860 Mr. Harrison was nominated for the
position of Supreme Court Reporter, and then be-
gan his experience as a stump speaker. He can-
vassed the State thoroughly, and was elected by a
handsome majority. In 1862 he raised the 17th
Indiana Infantry, and was chosen its Colonel. His
regiment was composed of the rawest of material,
but Col. Harrison employed all his time at first
mastering military tactics and drilling his men,
when he therefore came to move toward the East
witli Sherman his regiment was one of the best
drilled and organized in the army. At Resaca he
especially distinguished himself, and for his bravery
at Peachtree Creek he was made a Brigadier Gen-
eral, Gen. Hooker speaking of him in the most
complimentar3 r terms.

During the absence of Gen. Harrison in the field
lie 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 1864
he 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
jicidents of the war.

In 1868 Gen. Harrison declined o, re-election as
reporter, and resumed the practice of law. In 1876
e was a candidate for Governor. Although de-
feated, the brilliant campaign he made won for him
a National reputation, and he was much sought, es-
pecial.y in the East, to make speeches. In 1880,
as usual, he took an active part in the campaign,
and wac elected to the United States Senate. Here
we served six years, and was known as one of the
ablest men, best lawyers and strongest debaters in

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

The political campaign of 1888 was one of the
most memorable in the history of our 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 to agitate
the country. He was an uncompromising ant:
slavery man, and was matched against some of ilie
most eminent Democratic speakers of his State.
No man who felt the touch of his blade desired to
be pitted with him again. With all his eloquence
as an orator he never spoke for oratorical effect,
but his words always went like bullets to the mark
lie is purely American in his ideas and is a spier
did type of the American statesman. Gifted witU
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. Origi-
nal in thought, precise in logic, terse in statement,
yet withal faultless in eloquence, he is recognized as
the sound statesman and brilliant orator o f the day

GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

HADRACH BOND, the first
Governor of Illinois after its
organization as a State, serving
from 1818 to 1822, was bom 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," near
Eagle -Creek, in what is now Monroe
County. He served several terms as
a member of the General Assembly
of Indiana Territory, after it was organized as such,
and in 181214 he was a Delegate to the Twelfth
and Thirteenth Congresses, taking his seat Dec. 3,
1812, and serving until Oct. 3, (814. These were
the times, the reader will recollect, when this Gov-
ernment had its last struggle with Great Britain.
The year r8i2 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, Mr. 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, 1818, 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 State, even
before 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 proposed candidates.
Mr. Bond represented the " Convention party," for
introducing slavery into the State, supported by Elias
Keit 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 1824, after a most furious campaign. (See
sketch of Gov. Coles.) The ticket of 1818 was a
compromise one, Bond representing (moderately) the
pro-slavery sentiment and Menard the anti-slavery.

An awkward element in the State government
under Gov. Bond's administration, was the imperfec-
tion of the State constitution. The Convention
wished to have Elijah C. Berry for the 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
1o 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 bestowment of his
gubernatorial patronage, and these worked zealously
for him in the campaign.

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

Mr. Bond was of a benevolent and convivial dis-
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 i r, 1830, in peace and contentment.

GOVERNORS OF JLLhVOJS.

]>war& Coles*

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, Wni. 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 Coles found 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-slaveholding portion of the Union he would
prefer to settle.

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

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

EDWARD COLES.

ander) of the error committed by his minister at
Washington, and the consequent withdrawal of the
the latter from the post. On- his return, Mr. Coles
visited other parts of Europe, especially Paris, where
he was introduced to Gen. Lafayette.

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

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

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

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

over 8,000. The Lieutenant Governor was elected
by the slavery men. Mr. Coles' inauguration speech
was marked by calmness, deliberation and such a
wise expression of appropriate suggestions as to
elicit the sanction of all judicious politicians. But
he compromised not with evil. In his message to
the Legislature, the seat of Government being then
at Vandalia, he strongly urged the abrogation of the
modified form of slavery whi<:h then existed in this
State, contrary to the Ordinance of 1787. His posi-
tion on this subject seems the more remarkable, when
it is considered that he was a minority Governor, the
population of Illinois being at that time almost ex-
clusively from slave-holding States and by a large
majority in favor of the perpetuation of that old relic
of barbarism. The Legislature itself was, of course,
a reflex of the popular sentiment, and a majority of
them were led on by fiery men in denunciations of
the conscientious Governor, and in curses loud and
deep upon him and all his friends. Some of the
public men, indeed, went so far as to head a sort of
mob, or " shiveree " party, who visited the residence
of the Governor and others at Vandalia and 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
a State Convention to be elected, to devise and sub-
mit a new Constitution; and the dominant politics
of the day was "Convention" and "anti-Conven-
tion." Both parties issued addresses to Ihe people,
Gov. Coles himself being Ihe author of the address
published by the latter party. This address revealed
the schemes of the conspirators in a masterly man-
ner. It is difficult for us at this distant day to esti-
mate the critical and extremely delicate situation in
which the Governor was placed at that time.

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

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

After the expiration of his term of service, Gov.
Coles continued his residence in Edwardsville, sup-
erintending his farm in the vicinity. He was fond
of agriculture, and was the founder of the first agri-
cultural society in the State. On account of ill
health, however, and having no family to tie him
down, he spent much of his time in Eastern cities.
About 1832 he changed his residence to Philadel-
phia, where he died July 7, 1868, and is buried at
Woodland, near that city.

GO VEKNORS OF ILLINOIS.

119

INI AN EDWARDS, Governor
from 1827 to 1830, was a son
of Benjamin Edwards, and
was born in Montgomery
( County, Maryland, in March,
1775. 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
principles. His education in early
youth was in company with and
partly under the tuition of Hon. Wm.
Wirt, whom his father patronized )
and who was more than two years
older. An intimacy was thus
formjd between them which was lasting for life. He
was further educated at Dickinson College, at Car-
lisle, Pa. He next commenced the study of law, but
before completing his course he moved to Nelson
County, Ky., to open a farm for his father and to
purchase homes and locate lands for his brothers and
sisters. Here he fell in the company of dissolute
companions, and for several years led the life of a
spendthrift. He was, however, elected to the Legis-
lature of Kentucky as the Representative of Nelson
county before he was 21 years of age, and was re-
elected by an almost unanimous vote.

In 1798 he was licensed to practice law, and the
following year was admitted to the Courts of Tennes-
see. About this time he left Nelson County for
Russellville, in Logan County, broke away from his
dissolute companions, commenced a reformation and
devoted himself to severe and laborious study. He
then began to rise rapidly in his profession, and soon
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, 1809. Edwards arrived at Kaskaskia in
June, and on the i 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

120

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
ihe treaties. Peoria was depopulated by these de-
predations, and was not re-settled for many vears
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 1815 for a third term, serving
until the organization of the State in the fall of 1818
and the inauguration of Gov. Bond. At this time
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-
Dater and a conscientious statesman. He thought
seriously of resigning this situation in 1821, but was
ix;rsuaded by his old friend, VVm. VVirt, 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
VVm. 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
:ctor in the great struggle which ended in a victory
for his party in 1824.

In 1826 7 the Winnebago and other Indians com-
mitted son-.e 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 very efficient and satisfactory.

For a considerable portion of his time after his re-
moval to Illinois, Gov. Edwards resided upon his
farm near Kaskaskia, which he had well stocked with
horses, cattle and sheep from Kentucky, also with
fruit-trees, grape-vines and shrubbery. He estab-
lished saw and grist-mills, and engaged extensively
in mercantile business, having no less than eight or ten
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 1
known to the people of the " Prairie State," namely,
Ninian Wirt Edwards, once the Superintendent c<
Public Instruction and still a resident of Springfield
Gov. Edwards resided at and in the vicinity of Kas-
kaskia from 1809 to 1818; 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 also named in his honor.

GO VERNGRS OF ILLINOIS.

127

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-
uosed 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 2oth 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 himsel!'
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.

124

JOHN REYNOLDS.

From his services in the West, in the war of 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
"udicial calmness and moderation. The real animus
of the campaign was " Jackson " and " anti- Jackson,"
'he former party carrying the State.

In August, 1830, Mr. Reynolds was elected Gov-
ornor, amid great excitement. Installed in office, he
did all within his power to advance the cause of edu-
cation, internal improvements, the Illinois & Mich-
igan Canal, the harbor at Chicago, settling the coun-
try, etc.; also reccmmended the winding up of the
State Bank, as its affairs had become dangerously
complicated. In his national politics, he . was a
moderate supporter of General Jackson. But the
most celebrated event of his 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
gerr.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,
!: 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
' e had scarcely been outside of the State since he
Became of age, and had spent nearly all his youthful
Jays in the wildest region of the frontier. His firFt
nove 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
absent from his seat a single day, during eight ses-
sions of Congress, covering a period of seven years,
and he never vacillated in a party vote; but he failed
to get the Democratic party to foster his " National
Road " scheme. He says, in " My Own Times " (a
large autobiography he published), that it was only
by rigid economy that he avoided insolvency while in
Washington. 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 1 ' ngly, he
repaired to Philadelphia and succeeding in obtaining
a million dollars, which, however, was only a fourth
of what was wanted. The same year he and his
wife made at our of Europe. This year, also, Mr.
Reynolds had the rather awkward little responsibility
of introducing to President Van Buren the noted
Mormon Prophet, Joseph Smith, as a " Latter- Day
Saint! "

In 1846 Gov. Reynolds was elected a member of
the Legislature from St. Clair County, more particu-
larly for the purpose of obtaining a feasible charter
for a macadamized road from Belleville to St. Louis,
a distance of nearly 14 miles. This was immediately
built, and was the first road of the kind in the State.
He was again elected to the Legislature in 1852, when
he was chosen Speaker of the House. In 1860, aged
and infirm, he attended the National Democratic
Convention at Charleston, S. C , as an anti-Douglas
Delegate, where he received more attention from the
Southern Delegates than any other member. He
supported Breckenridge for the Presidency. After
the October elections foreshadowed the success of
Lincoln, he published an address urging the Demo-
crats to rally to the support of Douglas. Immedi-
ately preceding and during the late war, his corre-
spondence evinced a clear sympathy for the Southern
secession, and about the first of March, 1861, he
urged upon the Buchanan officials the seizure of the
treasure and arms in the custom-house and arsenal
at St. Louis. . Mr. Reynolds was a rather talkative
man, and apt in all the Western phrases and catch-
words that ever gained currency, besides many cun-
ning and odd ones of his own manufacture.

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

GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

127

LIAM LEE D. EWING,
Governor of Illinois Nov. 3
to 17, 1834, was a native
of Kentucky, and probably
of Scotch ancestry. He had
a fine education, was a gentle-
man of polished manners and
refined sentiment. In 1830 John Rey-
nolds was elected Governor of the State,
and Zadok Casey Lieutenant Governor,
and for the principal events that followed,
and the characteristics of the times, see
sketch of Gov. Reynolds. The first we
see in history concerning Mr. Ewing, in-
forms us that he was a Receiver of Public
Mor.eys at Vandalia soon after the organization of
tftis State, and that the public moneys in his hands
v.'ere deposited in various banks, as they are usually
'-. UK -/resent day. In 1823 the State Bank was
obbed, by which disaster Mr. Ewing lost a thousand-
dollar deposit.

The subject of this sketch had a commission as
Colonel in the Black Hawk War, and in emergencies
ne acted also as Major. In the summer of 1832,
when :'.i ^as rumored among the whites that Black
Hawk ar.d "iis 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
rubordinate officers, Henry resolved to proceed up
Rock River in search of the enemy. On the igth 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-skins 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 and Foxes, in-

128

WILLIAM L. D. E IV ING.

eluding 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 to
as a " General," which title he had derived from his
connection with the militia.

It was in the latter part of the same year (1832)
that Lieutenant Governor Casey was elected to Con-
gress and Gen. Ewing, who had been elected to the
Senate, was chosen to preside over that body. At
the August election of 1834, Gov. Reynolds was also
elected 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, Charles 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
State of Illinois, his term covering only a period of
15 days, namely, from the 3d to the lyth days, in-
clusive, of November. On the lyth 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
-jn the same day Governor elect Joseph Duncan
Tas 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 1 2th Ewing received 40, to Semple 37, and was
accordingly declared elected. In 1837 Mr. Ewing
received some votes for a continuance of his term in
Congress, when Mr. Young, just referred to, was
elected. In 1842 Mr. Ewing was elected State
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.

GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

I'M

467*-

OSEPH DUNCAN, Governor
1834-8, was born at Paris,
Ky., Feb. 23, 1794. At the
tender age of 19 years he en-
listed in the war against Greal
Britain, and as a soldier he
acquitted himself with credit. He
was an Ensign under the daunt-
less Croghan at Lower Sandusky,
or Fort Stephenson. In Illinois
he first appeared in a public capa-
city as Major-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
an 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,
but he entered upon the campaign undaunted. His
speeches, though short and devoid of ornament, were
full of good sense. He made a diligent canvass of
the State, Mr. Cook being hindered by the condition of
his health. The most that was expected of Mr.
Duncan, under the circumstances, was that he would

obtain a respectable vote, but without defeating 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 Congress until his election as Governor in
August, 1834. The first and bloodless year of the
Black Hawk War he was appointed by Gov. Rey-
nolds to the position of Brigadier-General of the
volunteers, and he conducted his brigade to Rock
Island. But he was absent from the State, in Wash-
ington, during the gubernatorial campaign, and did
not personally 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

I 3 2

JOSEPH DUNCAN.

sincere in his opposition to the old hero, as the latter
j;ad vetoed several important western measures
which were dear to Mr. Duncan. In his inaugural
message he threw off the mask and took a bold stand
ngainst the course of the President. The measures
r.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 barks and internal improvements.

It was while Mr. Duncan was Governor that the
people of Illinois went whirling on with bank and in-
ternal improvement schemes that well nigh bank-
*upted the Slate. The hard times of 1837 came on,
and the disasters that attended the inauguration of
:hese plans and the operation of the banks were mu-
tually charged upon the two political parties. Had
any one man autocratic power to introduce and
carry on any one of these measures, he would proba-
bly have succeeded to the satisfaction of the public;
Lut as many jealous men had hold of the same plow
handle, no success followed and each blamed the other
r or 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
Tcrre Haute, Quincy via Springfield to the Wabash,
Bloomington to Pekin, and Peoria to Warsaw, in all
about 1,300 miles of road. It also provided for the
improvement of the navigation of the Kaskaskia,
Illinois, Great and Little Wabash and Rock Rivers ;
also as a placebo, $200,000 in money were to be dis-
tributed to the various counties wherein no improve-
ments were ordered to be made as above. The
estimate for the expenses for all these projects was
:laced at a little over $10,000,000, which was not
more man half enough! That would now be equal to
saddling upon the State a debt of $225,000,000! It
was sufficient to bankrupt the State several times
over, even counting all the possible benefits.

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

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

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

Gov. Duncan's term expired in 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
Democrats. Charles W. Hunter was a third candi-
date for the same position. Mr. Snyder, however, died
before the campaign had advanced very far, and his
party substituted Thomas Ford, who was elected,
receiving 46,901 votes, to 38,584 for Duncan, and
909 for Hunter. The cause of Democratic success
at this time is mainly attributed to the temporary
support of the Mormons which they enjoyed, and the
want of any knowledge, on the part of the masses,
i hat Mr. Ford was opposed to any given jjolicy en-
leitained 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. 15, 1844, a devoted
member of the Presbyterian Church, leaving a wife
but no children. Two children, born to them, had
died in infancy.

GO VERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

'35

tHOMAS CARLIN, the sixth
Governor of the State of
Illinois, serving from 1838
to 1842, was also a Ken-
tuckian, being born near
Frankfort, that State, July
18, 1789, of Irish paternity.
The opportunities for an education
being very meager in his native
place, he, on approaching years of
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
study remained with him through
life. In 1803 his father removed
10 Missouri, then a part of " New Spain," where he
died in 1810.

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-
sc.'.vi, where he followed farming, and then removed
to Greene County. He located the town site of Car-
ro' : ton, in that county, and in ^25 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
] .11 kson Democrat, to the Illinois Senate. In the
IVuick Hawk War he commanded a spy battalion, a
po.^t 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 r838, 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 State
policy. But the grand scheme. had not yet lost its
dazzling influence upon the minds of the people.
Time and experience had not yet fully demonstrated
its utter absurdity. Hence the question of arresting
its career of profligate expenditures did not become
a leading one with the dominant party during the
campaign, and most of the old members of the Leg-
islature were returned at this election.

Under these circumstances the Democrats, in State
Convention assembled, nominated Mr. Carlin for the
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 Carlin
remained non-committal. This was the first time
*that the two main political parties in this State were
unembarrassed by any third party in the field. The
result of the election was: Carlin, 35,573; Ander-
son, 30,335 ; Edwards, 29,629 ; and Davidson, 28,-

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

i 3 6

THOMAS CARL1N.

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. Ch'cago at that time began to
loom up and promise to be an important city, even
the great emporium of the West, as it has since in-
deed came to be. Ex-Gov. Reynolds, an incompe-
tent financier, was commissioned to effect the loan,
and accordingly hastened to the East on this respons-
ible errand, and negotiated the loans, at considera-
ble sacrifice to the State. Besides this embarrassment
to 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.
Scales, 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 not 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 1840-1, 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 io
oppose) a charter for the city of Nauvoo which /ir-
tually erected a hierarchy co-ordinate with the Fed
eral Government itself. In the fall of 1841 the
Governor of Missouri made a demand upon Gov.
Carlin for the body of Joe Smith, the Mormon leader,
as a fugitive from justice. Gov. Carlin issued the
writ, but for some reason it was returned unserved.
It was again issued in 1842, and Smith was arrested,
but was either rescued by his followers or discharged
by the municipal court on a writ of habeas corpus.

In December, i84t, 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
and seven children.

GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

139

JHOMAS 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 i

schooling, under the instructions of a Mr. Humphrey,
for which he had to walk three miles. His mother,
though lacking a thorough education, was a woman
of superior mental 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
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 1829 Gov. Edwards appointed him Prosecuting
Attorney, and in i83r 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, once 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
he was holding Court in Ogle County he received a.
notice of his nomination by the Democratic Conven-
tion for the office of Governor. He immediately re-
signed his place and entered upon the canvass. In
August, 1842, he was elected, and on the 8th of De-
cember following he was inaugurated.

AH the offices which he had held were unsolicited
by him. He received them upon the true Jefferson-
ian principle, Never to ask .ind 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
round, 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
ihe 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, lie was taken by
a stranger to 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
the Mexican War.

In the first of these the Governor proved himself
to be eminently wise. On coming into office he found
the State badly paralyzed by the ruinous effects of
the 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
their leader, Jo Smith, by a violent death, were driven
out of Nauvoo to the far West, etc. Having been a
Judge for so many years previously, Mr. Ford of
course was 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 doubtless 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 su :cessor. 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 veiy 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.

G.)VERi\ORS OF ILLINOIS.

143

K+MEMRMKMJMMMHBNI

C. French,

AUGUSTUS C. FRENCH,
Governor of Illinois from
1846 to 1852, was born in
the town of Hill, in the
State of New Hampshire,
Aug. 2, 1808. He was a
descendant in the fourth
generation of Nathaniel
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 1 846, meet-
ing at Springfield Feb. 10, nominated Mr. French
for Governor. Other Democratic candidates were
Lyraan Trumbull, John Calhoun (subsequently of
Lecompton Constitution notoriety), Walter B. Scales,
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 incumbenl: 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, lie received 67,-
453 votes, to 5,639 for Pierre Menard (son of the
first Lieutenant Governor), 4,748 for Charles V.
Dyer, 3,834 for W. L. D. Morrison, and 1,361 for
James L. 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
land warrants among the Mexican soldiers as bounty
threw upon the market a great quantity of good
lands, and this enhanced the settlement of the State.
The same Legislature authorized, with the recom-
mendation of the Governor, the sale of the Northern
Cross Railroad (from Springfield to Meredosia, the
first in the State and now a section of the Wabash,
St. Louis & Pacific) It sold for $100,000 in bonds,
although it had cost the State not less than a million.
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 851,470.

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

In 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 therft complained that
the scheme would inundate and ruin much valuable
land, there was a slight conflict of jurisdictions, re-
sulting in favor of the St. Louis project ; and since
then a good site has existed there for a city (East St.
Louis), and now a score of railroads center there.

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

In 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 . 111.

CO VERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

i47

:OEL A. MATTESON, Governor
1853-6, was bora 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 storm 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 An
Sable River, in what is now Kendall County. At
that time there were not more than two neighbors
within a range of ten miles of his place, and only
three or four houses between him and Chicago. He
opened a large farm. His family was boarded 1 2

miles away while he erected a house on his claim,
sleeping, daring 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 1835 he bought largely at the Government land
sales. During the speculative real-estate mania which
broke out in Chicago in 1836 and spread over the State,
he sold his lands 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 1841, when hard times
prevailed, business at a stand, contracts paid in State
scrip; when all the public works except the canal
were abandoned, the State 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 1842 he was first elected a State Senator, but,
by a bungling apportionment, John Pearson, a Senator
holding over, was found to be in the same district,
and decided to be entitled to represent it. Mat-
teson's seat was declared vacant. Pearson, however
with a nobleness difficult to appreciate in this day of

148

JOEL A. MATTESON.

greed for office, unwilling to represent his district
under the circumstances, immediately resigned his
unexpired term of two years. A bill was passed in a
few hours ordering a new election, and in ten days'
time Mr. Matteson was returned re-elected and took
his seat as Senator. From his well-known capacity
as a business man, he was made Chairman of the
Committee 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, 1852. Other candidates before the Con-
vention were D. L. Gregg and F. C. Sherman, of
Cook ; John Dement, of Lee ; Thomas L. Harris, of
Menard; Lewis W. Ross, of Fulton ; and D. P. Bush,
of Pike. Gustavus Koerner, of St. Clair, was nom-
inated for Lieutenant Governor. For the same offices
the Whigs nominated Edwin B. Webb and Dexter A.
Knowlton. Mr. Matteson received 80,645 votes at
the election, while Mr. Webb received 64,408. Mat-
teson's forte was not on the stump; he had not cul-
tivated the art of oily flattery, or the faculty of being
all tilings 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
rirtues and all the amiable qualities of neighbor or
citizen, he had few superiors. His messages present
n 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
\va; the repeal of the Missouri Compromise, by Con-

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

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

During the four years of Gov. Matteson's admin-
istration the taxable wealth of the State was about
trebled, from $137,818,079 to $349,95 r, 272; the pub-
lic debt was reduced from $17,398,985 to $12,843,-
144; taxation was at the same time reduced, and the
State resumed paying interest on its debt in New
York as fast as it fell due ; railroads were increased
in their mileage from something les,s than 400 to
about 3,000 ; and the population of Chicago was
nearly doubled, and its commerce more than quad-
rupled.

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

He died in the winter of 18723, at Chicago.

GO VKRXORS OF ILLINOIS.

'!)'-'. i'.; i 1 .; i'.;;.'.; i'J I'v.v'.'-.' v .' ' ."' '<'":> >''> ;

ILLIAM H. BISSELL, Gov-
ernor 1857-60, was born
April 25, 1811, 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 i-n 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 soon came to be under-

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

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

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

'S 2

WILLIAM If. BfSSELL.

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
Counlv, for Lieutenant Governor. The result of the

election was a plurality of 4,729 votes over Richard-
son. The American, or Know-Nothing, party had a
ticket in the field. The Legislature was nearly bal-
anced, but was politically opposed to the Governor.
His message to the Legislature was short and rather
ordinary, and was criticised for expressing the sup-
posed obligations of the people to the incorporators
of the Illinois Genual 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 Stale, but the Legislature
failed to 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,
1860, over nine months before the expiration of hi;
gubernatorial term, at the early age of 48 years. He
died in the faith of the Roman Catholic Church, o/
which he hao lieen a member since 1854.

,".

Gl, VERNOR^ OF ILLINOIS.

'55

-S

j:OHN WOOD, Governor i86o-i,and
the first settler of Quincy, 111.,
was bom 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 1821 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,

1 8 x 20 feet, the first building in Quincy, of whirl;
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 ye;
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 a
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 Adam-;
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

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 Wm. H. Bissell for Governor, and on the
death of the latter, March 18, 1860, 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 1860, 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 1 86 r 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
on the "Bluffs," with no family, and no neighbor
within a score of miles, the world of civilization away
behind him, and the strolling red-man almost his
only visitant, he lived to see 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,
1 880, at his residence in Quincy. Four of his eight
children are now living, namely: Ann E., wife of
Gen. John Tillson; Daniel C., who married Mary J.
Abernethy; John, Jr., who married Josephine Skinner,
and Joshua S., who married Annie Bradley. The
last mentioned now resides at Atchison, Kansas, and
all the rest are still at Quincy.

'f* (^ <3~~*a-

GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

'59

HCHARD YATES, the "War
Governor," 1861-4, was born
Jan. 1 8, 1818, on the banks of
the Ohio River, at Warsaw,
Gallatin Co., Ky. His father
moved in 1831 to Illinois, anc^
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 1840 he engaged with great
^rdor in the exciting " hard cider " campaign for
Garrison. 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-
r ory that by 1850 his large Congressional District,
extending from Morgan and Sangamon Counties
. orth to include LaSalle, unanimously tendered him
tne Whig nomination for Congress. His Democratic
opponent was Maj. Thomas L. Harris, a very pop-
v.lar man who had won distinction at the battle of
Cerro Gordo, in the Mexican War, and who had
jeateu Hon. Stephen T. Logan for the same position,

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

It was during Yates second term in Congress that
the great question of the repeal of the Missouri Com-
promise was agitated, and the bars laid down for re-
opening the dreaded anti-slavery question. He took
strong grounds against the repeal, and thus 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 1860 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 Du-Page 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 of
Crawford County, for Governor, and Lewis W. Ross,
of Fulton County, for Lieutenant Governor. The
Breckenridge Democrats and the Bell-Everett party
had also full tickets in the field. After a most fear-
ful campaign, the result of the election gave Mr.
Yates 172,196 votes, and Mr. Allen 159,253. Mr.
Yates received over a thousand more votes than did
Mr. Lincoln himself.

Gov. Yates occupied the chair of State during the

i6o

RICHARD YATES.

most critical period of our country's history. In the
fate of the nation was involved that of each State.
The life struggle of 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 battle of
Shiloh he repaired to the field of carnage to look
after the wounded, and his appeals for aid were
promptly responded to by the people. His procla-
mations calling for volunteers were impassionate
appeals, urging upon the people the duties and re-
quirements of patriotism; and his special message
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
ad supreme power; that it represented a virtual
assemblage of the whole people of the State, and was
sovereign in the exercise of all power necessary to
effect a peaceable revolution of the State Government

and to the re-establishment of one for the "happiness,
prosperity and freedom of the citizens," limited only
by the Federal 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 them " to the Saturday next preceding the
first Monday in January, 1865 ! " This led to great
excitement and confusion, and to a reference of the
Governor's act to the Supreme Court, who decided in
his favor. Then it was the Court's turn to receive
abuse for weeks and months afterward.

During the autumn of 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 postoffice. 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 the 27111 of November following.

GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

'63

Michard J. Ogles

lICHARD J. OGLESBY, Gov-
ernor 1865-8, and re-elected
in 1872 and 1884, was born
July 25, 1824, in Oldham Co.,
Ky., the State which might
be considered the " mother of
Illinois Governors." Bereft of
~ his parents at the tender age
of eight years, his early education
was neglected. When 12 years of
age, and after he had worked a year
and a half at the carpenter's trade,
he removed with an uncle, Willis
Oglesby, into whose care he had
been committed, to Decatur, this
State, where he continued his ap-
prenticeship as a mechanic, working six months for
Hon. E. O. Smith.

In 1844 he commenced studying law at Spring-
field, with Judge Silas Robbins, and read with him
one year. He was admitted to the Bar in 1845, all d
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 resu ned the practice of law, as a
member of the firm of Gallagher, Wait & Oglesby.
In 1858 he was the Republican no.ainee for the
Lower House of Congress, but was defeated by the
Hon. James C. Robinson, Democrat. In 1860 he
was elected to the Illinois State Senate ; and on. the
evening the returns of this election were coining 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 was 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 iro-

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 i6th Army
Corps, but, owing to inability fro;n 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 a:id 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 Clark, for Governor, and S.
Corning Judd, of Fulton, for Lieutenant Governor.
The general election gave Gen. Oglesby a majority
of about 31,000 votes. The Republicans had also a
majority in both tha Legislature and in the repre-
sentation in Congress.

Gov. Oglesby was duly inaugurated Jan. if, 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 131)1
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
orivnte and special acts. Many omnibus bills were
proposed, and some passed. The contests over the
.Dcation of the Industrial College, the Capital, the

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

During the year 1872, it became evident that if
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
served 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 well
calculated favorably to impress the average masses.
Ardent in feeling and si rongly 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 gesturer,,
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 a-idience beyond measure.

GO VERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

JOHN M. PAL MEM

Me AULEY PALMER, Gov-
ernor 1869-72, was born on
Eagle Creek, Scott Co., Ky.,
Sept. 13, 1817. During his in-
fancy, his father, who had been
a soldier in the war of 1812, 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
early aptitude. 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
1 8 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

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 would 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 party
issue he refused to receive a re-nomination for tin
Senatorship at the hands of the Democracy, issuinf
a circular to that effect. A few weeks afterward

1 68

JOHN MC AULEY PALMER.

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

In 1856 he was Chairman of the Republican State
Convention at Bloomington. He ran for Congress in
1859, but was defeated. In 1860 he was Republican
Presidential Elector for the State at large. In 1861
he was appointed one of the five Delegates (all Re-
publicans) sent by Illinois to the peace congress at
Washington.

When the civil conflict broke out, he offered his
services to his country, and was elected Colonel of the
i4th 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 i4th
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 daties of his post.

Gen. Palmer 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,
1 869, the first thing to arrest public attention was
that portion of the Governor's message which took
broad Slate's rights ground. This and some minor
points, which were more in keeping with the Demo-
cratic sentiment, constituted the entering wedge fir
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,
the "tax-grabbing law" to pay railroad subscriptions,
the Chicago Lake Front bill, etc. The new State
Constitution of 1870, far superior to the old, was a
peaceful "revolution" which took place during Gov.
Palmer's term of office. The suffering caused by the
great Chicago Fire of October, 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 principles
of statesmanship.

' VERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

'7'

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,
lames and Agnes Hoy, emigrated
from Scotland at the close of the

Revolutionary War, settling also in
' Washington Co., N. Y., with their
first-born, whose " native land "was
the wild ocean. His parents and
grandparents lived beyond the time
allotted to 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 rig d
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 191)1
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 i8th 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

I 7 2

JOHN L. BE VE RIDGE.

Poor, 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-
wont 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
lime 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
law, worked in public offices, kept books for some of
the business men of the town, and some railroad en-
gineering, till the spring of 1854, when he removed
to Evanston, 12 miles north of Chicago, a place then
but recently laid out, under the supervision of the
Northwestern University, a Methodist institution.
Of the latter his father-in-law was then financial
agent and business 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, 1861, 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 8, and on its organiza-
tion Mr. B. was elected Second Major. It was at-
tached, Oct. n, 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 1 863, and it was while
lying in camp this year that he originated the policy
of encouraging recruits as well as the fighting capac-
ity of the soldiery, by the wholesale furlough system.
It worked so well that many other officers adopted
it. In the fall of this year he recruited another com-
pany, against heavy odds, in January, 1864, was
commissioned Colonel of the i7th 111. Cav., and
skirmished around in Missouri, concluding with the
reception of the surrender of Gen. Kirby Smith's
army in Arkansas. In 1865 he commanded various
sub-districts in the Southwest. He was mustered
out Feb. 6, 1866, safe from the casualties of war and
a stouter man than when he first enlisted. His men
idolized him.

He then returned to 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
1866 he.was elected Sheriff of Cook County, serving
one term; next, until November, 1870, he practiced
law and closed up the unfinished business of his
office. He was then elected State Senator; in No-
vember, 187 i, 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, 1 88 1, 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 Kail) County James H. Beveridge, Mrs. Jennet
Henry and Mrs. Isabel French.

GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

175

&HELB Y M. CULLOM.

HELBY M. CULLOM, Gover-
nor 1877-83,13 the sixth child
of the late Richard N. Cullom,
and was born Nov. 22, 1829,111
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,
Taze well 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
deej) and lasting and the weather severely cold; and
tiie 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,
however, he spent several months teachin^ rhool,

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 out-door life. Accordingly he bought hogs for
packing, for A. G. Tyng, in Peoria, and while he re-
gained his health he gained in purse, netting $400 in
a few weeks. Having been admitted to the Bar, he
went to Springfield, where he was soon elected City
Attorney, on the 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-
ties. On the organization of the House, he received
the vote of the Fillmore men for Speaker. Practicing

r 7 6

SHELB Y M. CULLOM.

law until 1860, he was again elecced 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 1 86 1, 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. Edwards,
another of his old preceptors, by 2,884 votes.

During his first term in Congress he served on the
Committee on Foreign Affairs and Expenditures in
the Treasury Department; in his second term, on
the Committees on Foreign Affairs and on Territories ;
and in his third term he succeeded Mr. Ashley, of
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,
placed in nomination Lewis Steward, a wealthy

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

Great depression prevailed in financial circles at
this time, as a consequence of the heavy failures of
1873 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 Lyinan Trumbull, by the
Democrats; and although the former party was some-
what handicapped in the campaign by a zealous
faction opposed to Grant for President and to Grant
men for office generally, Mr. Cullom was re-elected
by about 314,565, to 277,532 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, iS8i. In his mes-
sage he announced that the last dollar of the State
debt had been provided for.

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

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

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

GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

'79

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
of 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 slcetch was, before her marriage,
Mrs. Nancy McMoiris, 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
2 1 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 comforti>'e 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 he 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 1860 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 whe;i
they offered themselves for the war, young Hamilio.i
was rejected on account of his youth, he being then
but 14 years of age. During the winter of 1863-4 he
attended an academy at Henry, Marshall County.

t8o

JOHN MARSHALL HAMILTON.

and in the following May he again enlisted, for the
fourth time, when he was placed in the i4ist 111.
Vol. Inf., a regiment then being raised at Elgin, 111.,
for the loo-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
Bloomington, he entered the law office of Weldon,
Tipton & Benjamin, of that city. Each member of
this firm has since been distinguished as a Judge.
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, 1871. 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 chief on
every ballot, even alone when all the other Republi-
cans had gone over to the Hon. E. B. Lawrence and
the Democrats and Independents elected Judge
David Davis. At this session, also, was passed the
first Board of Health and Medical Practice act, of
which Mr. Hamilton was a champion, against r;
much opposition that the bill was several times
" laid on the table." Also, this session authorized
the location and establishment of a southern peni-
tentiary, which was fixed at Chester. In the session
of 1879 Mr. Hamilton was elected President pro tern.
of the Senate, and was a zealous supporter of John
A. Logan for the U. S. Senate, who wa". 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
Hon. Wm. A. James, ex-Speaker of the House of
Representatives, Judge Robert Bell, of Wabash
County, Hon. T. T. Fountain, of Perry County, and
Hon. M. M. Saddler, of Marion County. He engaged
actively in the campaign, and his ticket was elected
by a majority of 41,200. As Lieutenant Governor,
he presided almost continuously over the Senate in
the 3ad 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. Clairand Madison
Counties in May, 1883, the appropriations for the
State militia, the adoption of the Harper high-license
liquor law, the veto of a dangerous railroad bill, etc.

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

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

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

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

JOSEPH W. FIFER.

183

'OSEPH WILSON FIFER. This
distinguished gentleman was
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-
ginia, 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, t'ie
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 coining 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 38d 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. He was regarded as mortally wounded.
His brother, George, who had been made a Lieu-
tenant, proved to be the means of saving his life.
The Surgeon told him unless he had ice his brother
Joe could not live. It was fifty miles to the nearest
point where ice could 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 trip, owing to the roughness of the roads,
was very hard on him. After a few months' care-
ful nursing Mr. Fifer was able to come home. The
33d came home on a furlough, and when the
boys were ready to return to the tented field,
young Fifer was ready to go with them; for he was
determined to finish his term of three years. He
was mustered out in October, 1864, having been
in the service three years and two months.

" Private Joe " came out of the army a tall,
tanned, and awkward young man of twenty-four.
About all he possessed was ambition to be some-
body and pluck. Though at an age when most
men have finished their college course, the young
soldier saw that if he was to be anybody he must
have an education. Yet he had no means to ena-
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 great 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 with him, he was ready to hang out
his professional shingle in 1869. Being trust-
worthy he soon gathered about him some influen-
tial friends. In 1871 he was elected Corporation
Counsel of Bloomington. In 1872 he was elected
State's Attorney of McLean 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 State
proved a great power in his behalf. His happy
faculty of winning the confidence and good wishes
of those with whom he comes in personal contact is a
source of great popularity, 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, wa elected by a good majority,
and in due time assumed the duties of the Chief
Executive of Illinois.

WOODFORD COUNTY,

ILLINOIS,

VS/^/N/N/V/V/S^'^^^O^ J/3\

IN'TRODUQ'TORY

HE 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
safe vessel in which the names and actions of the
people who contributed to raise this country from its
primitive state may be preserved. Surely and rapidly
the great and aged men, who in their prime entered
the wilderness and claimed the virgin soil as their
heritage, are passing to their graves. The number re-
maining who can relate the incidents of the first days
j{ settlement is becoming small indeed, so that an
actual necessity exists for the collection and preser-
vation of events without delay, before all the early
settlers are cut down by the scythe of Time.

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

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

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

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

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

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

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

191

>ON. E. A. WILCOX. M. D.,

whose portrait is presented
on the opposite page, is
the oldest physician in
X Minonk in point of settle-
1 ment, and the second old-
>est in Wood ford County, Dr. James
S. Whitmire taking precedence of
him, and occupying the post of
honor in that respect. He is one
of the leading members of his pro-
fession in NeMbevN Illinois, and
since coming here has enjoyed an
extensive practice, second to that of
no other physician in this part of
the State. In the prosecution of his profession he
hag shown himself to be a business man of no ordi-
nary ability, and has accumulated a large amount
of property, thus placing himself among the men of
wealth and influence in his community. His time
has not altogether been devoted to his calling, for
a man of his executive capacity is demanded in
public life, and he has served with distinction in
various county and city offices, and has been a
member of the State Assembly.

The Doctor is a native of Pennsylvania, born in
the town of Wattsburgh, Erie County, Sept. 8,
1830, a son of Levi and Nancy (Rogers) Wilcox,
natives respectively of Haddam, Conn., and Col inn -
biana County, Ohio. The Wilcoxes are of Scotch
ancestry, and for many generations have been rep-

resented in New England, where they settled in
early Colonial times. Ills grandfather, Levi Wil-
cox, was a farmer in Connecticut, and the father of
our subject was reared on the old homestead, arnid
the pleasant scenes of his New England birthplace.
He was a studious, thoughtful lad, and educated
himself for the medical profession, for which his
talents seemed peculiarly adapted. He moved to
Ohio, married there, and subsequently practiced his
profession in Tuscarawas County, that State, being
one of its pioneer physicians. From New Phila-
delphia, the county seat of that county, he came to
Illinois about 1837, and located in Lacon, Marshall
County, as one of the first physicians of that town,
and was there actively engaged in his profession
the remainder of his life. He became very promi-
nent, not only as a doctor, but as a public official,
and his death, of cholera, June 4, 1851, at the age
of fifty-one years, was a severe blow to the county,
which then lost one of its most influential and
valuable citizens. He was a gentleman of much
culture, and of a calm, philosophical temperament,
and got all the enjoyment out of life possible, liv-
ing well, and having the benefit of his money as he
went along. He had good financial ability, and
accumulated an estate of over $10,000. He was a
Whig in politics, a leading member of his party,
and he served one term as County Treasurer of
Marshall County. He was a member in good
standing of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The
mother of our subject was a daughter of Alexander

lit 2

PORTRAIT A>U) BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

Rogers, and hart seven brothers: Dr. Thomas P.
Rogers, of Bloomington, Ills.; John Rogers, a far-
mer, of Marshall County ; Samuel Rogers, a retired
farmer of Woodford County, now living in Min-
onk; Dr. R. B. Rogers, of Lacon; Dr. David Rog-
ers, of Missouri; Dr. Alexander Rogers, of Ohio;
and George Rogers, of Oregon. She survived her
husband many years, her death finally occurring in
March, 1888, at the home of our subject, at the
advanced age of eighty- four years. Six children
were born of her marriage: Edward A., our sub-
ject; Sophronia, who married Ezra Warren, and
died in Tiskilwa, 111.; Alfred R., an 'officer in the
late war, who died in the service; Cynthia, who
married James D. Verna, and died in Lacon, 111.;
Elizabeth, the wife of Henry C. Dent, of Gains-
ville, Tex.; Levi 8., a resident of Champaign, and
Collector of Internal Revenue for the Second Dis-
trict of Illinois. Alfred R. was a member of Com-
pany II, llth Illinois Infantry, First Lieutenant of
his company. He was wounded at Ft. Donelson,
and died at Minonk one month later, and thus a
gallant officer was lost to the cause.

Our subject was but eight years old when the
family came to Illinois and he laid the basis of a
sound education at Mt. Morris. He began the
study of medicine under the instruction of his
father and of his uncle, Dr. R. B. Rogers, and in
1857 was graduated with honors from Rush Medi-
cal College, with a good theoretical knowledge of
medicine in its various branches. He opened an
office at Lacon, but after practicing there a year
came to Minonk, and has since carried on his pro-
fession here, and has raised himself to the first
rank among the physicians of Woodford County,
as a practitioner of more than ordinary skill and
intelligence, who has met with great success in the
treatment of difficult cases. He has also been suc-
cessful from a financial standpoint, his ability in
regard to money matters being as conspicuous as it
is in the exercise of his profession. He is the
owner of 800 acres of land in Woodford and ad-
joining counties, and over 1,400 acres of land in
other States, besides having other valuable prop-
erty in Minonk.

The Doctor has been twice married. He first led
to the altar, June 23, 1S57. Miss Carrie Mathis, a

daughter of Caleb Mathis, of Putnam County, 111.
She was a native of Ohio, having been born at Ur-
bana, Champaign County, Dec. 12, 1832, and died
in Minonk, March 11, 1877, leaving her husband
and children to rnourn the loss of one, who in
every respect filled the perfect measure of wife,
mother, friend. The following is recorded of the
seven children born to our subject of that mar-
riage: Elsie S. is the wife of William Haggard, a
business manager of LaPorte, Ind.; Carrie E. is
the wife of H. C. Forney, of Minonk; Alfred R. is
a dentist in Minonk; Fred W., a graduate of Rush
Medical College, is a physician in Minonk; Frank
T. is a student at Rush Medical College; Hattie
and Mattie, twins, are pupils at the Wesleyan Uni-
versity, in Bloomington.

The Doctor's marriage to his present wife, form-
erly Miss Victoria Boyle, took place at the home of
her father in Ox Bow, Putnam Co., III., July 17,
1878. She was horn in Putnam County, 111.,
April 29. 1853, and is a daughter of David Boyle,
a retired farmer living in Wichita, Kan. Five chil-
dren have been born of this union Edna C., Bran-
ard A., Lottie and Logan, twins. Josie is deceased.
Our subject has not only distinguished himself
in the medical world, but in public life, where his
name is widely known and honored as that of a
wise, able and progressive statesman, who has
worked zealously for the highest interests of the
State, county and township, ungoverned by per-
sonal aims or party considerations. He represented
his district, which then included Woodford, Mar-
shall and Putnam counties, in the State Senate three
sessions, a period of four years, from 1872 to 1876.
This fact illustrates his genuine popularity, the
hold that he has upon the hearts of the people, and
his great influence when it is considered that these
counties are largely Democratic, yet he, a sound
Republican, was elected State Senator by an un-
usually large majority, and that no Republican has
represented the district from that date. As Mayor
of Minonk for three terms he has greatly ad vanced
its interests in every direction, and has done much
to bring about its present prosperity and high
standing. He is a leader in the Republican party
in this section of the country, a prominent member
of the State Central Committee, having served

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

193

three terms, and once as a member at large. He is
a member of the State Medical Association of the
Northwest, and of the Wood ford County medical
societies.

JREEN LEE PATTERSON, a prominent and
influential farmer, residing on section 29'
Palestine Township, was born in Indiana.
Sept. 26, 1827, and is descended from good old
Revolutionary stock. His paternal grandfather,
.lames Patterson, was probably a native of Penn-
sylvania or Virginia. When the Colonies took up
arms against the mother country, resolved to shake
off the British yoke of tyranny, like a loyal citizen
he enlisted in their ranks, and served during the
entire war as captain. He participated in many of
the most important engagements of that struggle,
and was ever found at his post of duty, bravely
fighting for American independence. By occupa-
tion he was a farmer and followed that pursuit
the greater part of his life. He married a Virgin-
ia lady, and they settled near Harper's Ferry,
since made memorable by the John Brown raid.
They continued to make their home in that com-
munity until called from the busy scenes of this
earth to the rest beyond the grave. Unto that worthy
couple were born a large family of eight children,
seven sons and one daughter, and the entire num-
ber were married, reared families, and attained the
ages of three-score years and ten, though none are
now living.

Joshua Patterson, father of our subject, was one
of the younger members of the family, and in his
native State, Virginia, was reared to manhood.
Thence he removed to Kentucky in company with
an older brother and his only sister, the party set-
tling near Georgetown, Scott County, where he
was joined in wedlock with his cousin, Miss Mary
E. Bell, who was born in Maryland, and was a
daughter of Robert Bell, who was probably also
born in the same State. Mrs. Patterson was only
a little child when the death of her mother oc-
curred, and she was reared by an older sister, who
went with other members of the family to Ken-
tucky, where her marriage with Joshua Patterson

was celebrated. The young couple began their
domestic life in Scott County, where the husband
followed blacksmithing, which trade he had learned
in his native State. Five children were there born
unto them, as follows: Milton, Sanford, Dudley,
Abby A. and Elizabeth. In 1825, the family left
Kentucky and removed to Indiana, settling in nn
almost unbroken wilderness, not far from Decatur,
where Mr. Patterson purchased eighty acres of
land, and began farming. A few years later, he re-
moved to Rush County, locating in Richland Town-
ship, where he bought 160 acres of timber land,
and in the midst of the forest made a home. He
was a man of energy, and in :in incredibly short
period of time had cleared away the trees, plowed
his land and planted crops. He continued to reside
upon that farm until his death, which occurred in
December, 1851, at the ripe old age of seventy-five
years. He possessed a vigorous constitution and
hopeful disposition which especially fitted him for
the trials and hardships of pioneer life, and made his
efforts successful, when many another of a more
despondent temperament would have failed. His ex-
cellent wife survived him, dying at the age of eighty-
eight years. After settling in Indiana, they became
members of the Christian Church, and died in that
faith.

Not long after the removal of the family from
Kentucky, the birth of our subject occurred. He
was reared in his native county, remaining under
the parental roof until twenty-two years of age,
when he left home and started westward. That was
in 1849. He spent the following winter in Iowa,
and in 1850, attracted by the discovery of gold in
California, joined a party of emigrants, and with
ox teams began the journey across the plains to
the Pacific Slope. After four and a half months
the company reached their destination, arriving in
Hangtown, Cal. Mr. Patterson remained in the
West for three and a half years, during which time
he engaged in mining and teaming. He was rea-
sonably successful, and after having accumulated
some capital, in 1 853, started for home. He made
the return trip by way of the Isthmus of Panama
and New York City, whence he came across the
Country to Illinois. Arriving in Woodford County,
he turned iiis attention to agricultural pursuits, and

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

is now the owner of one of the best farms in the
township, comprising 160 acres, highly improved
and cultivated. Everything about the place indi-
cates thrift and industry, while neatness and regu-
larity characterize the entire surroundings.

In 1856, Mr. Patterson went to Adair County,
Mo., where he was joined in wedlock with Miss
Mary J. Brashears, and then returned with his
young bride to the home which he had prepared.
Mrs. Patterson was born in Rolls County, Mo., and
is a daughter of William and Rosanna (Wood)
Brashears, who were natives of South Carolina.
They were also reared and married in that State,
but soon removed to Monroe County, where they
made their home until becoming residents of Adair
County, where Mr. Brashears died in 1861, when
fifty years of age. - His wife is still living in Bra-
shear. Mo., and has nearly attained the advanced
age of eighty years.

Mr. and Mrs. Patterson have spent their entire
married life in Woodford County, and are ranked
among its best citizens. They hold a high position
in the social world, and are widely and favorably
known throughout the community. They hold
membership in the Christian Church of Palestine
Township, and are active workers in the interests of
that society. In politics Mr. Patterson is a Repub-
lican, and as every true American citizen should
do, feels a deep interest in political affairs. He has,
however, never been an office seeker in the popular
sense of the word, preferring rather to devote his
time and attention to his business interests.

RS. MARTHA PEARD, widow of Richard
Peard, left her old English home, where
she had been born and bred, and the
friends of her youth, and in the bloom of
early womanhood crossed the ocean with her young
husband to aid him in building up a new home on
the western prairies of America, and they thus be-
came pioneers of Woodford County. In the busy-
years that followed their settlement in the sparsely
inhabited township of Metamora, where deer,
wolves and other wild animals used to roam on the

site of a now populous city, Mr. Peard trans-
formed the wild land that he had purchased into a
productive farm. But it was left to our subject
to finish the work that he had so well begun. Left
a widow while yet young, with six little children
to care for, she nobly assumed the burden that thus
devolved upon her, and successfully carried on the
farm, completing its improvement and making it
with its well tilled lands, beautiful surroundings,
its pretty lawns adorned with trees, shrubs and
flowers, and with its neat and tasty buildings, one
of the most desirable places in the township. It
gives u? great pleasure to introduce to our readers
one who should surely have an honorable place
among our pioneers.

Mrs. Peard was born in Tavistock, England, Jan.
28, 1820, a daughter of one William Down, a
daily farmer, who spent his entire life in Devon-
shire. Her mother, whose maiden name was Mary
Brooks, also spent her whole life in her native
England. There were four children born to the
worthy parents of our subject, one son and three
daughters. Mrs. Peard.'s brother lost his life in a
mine disaster at the age of twenty-four. Her sis-
ter Charlotte married Richard Prout, and lives in
Tavistock, England. Her sister Harriet married
Henry Phear, and lives in Cornwall, England.
Mrs. Peard resided with her parents till her mar-
riage with Richard Peard, when she was nineteen
years old.

Richard Peard was born at Bratten Clovelly,
Devonshire, England, July 10, 1825, a son of
Richard and Alice (Rundel) Peard, also natives
of Devonshire. He was left an orphan at seven
years of age, and was reared by an uncle on a farm.
His brother William came to America, and resided
for a time at Carlinville, III.; later he removed to
Burr Oak, Winneshiek County, Iowa, where he be-
came the possessor of a large farm, and there he
spent his last years, and his family are living there
now. His sisters Elizabeth and Grace came to this
country, and the former married Thomas Richards,
a prominent farmer of Linn Township, where she
spent her last years; her daughters are residents of
the county. Grace married William Hunter, and
died at Carlinville, 111.

A short time after marriage Mr. Peard deter-

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

195

mined to try life in America and see what it held
for him and his, and in the month of May, 1850,
he and his young wife left the land of their birth,
setting sail from Plymouth, and four weeks and
four da3'S later they lauded in the quaint city of
Quebec, whence they came directly to Illinois.
They rented a home in Metamora Township till
Mr. Peard could look around the country and secure
a suitable location. In the same year he bought
eighty acres of land on section ll,Metamoru Town-
ship, on which his family now resides. There were
ten acres improved, and a small frame house stood
on the place, and in that lonely habitation the
young couple set up their household gods. They
had but few neighbors, and none very near, as the
county roundabout was thinly settled, and was
still in the hands of the pioneers. There were no
railways for some 3'ears after their location here,
and Peoria and Spring Bay were the nearest mar-
ket towns. Mr. Peard was quite prosperous in his
undertakings, and increased the area of his farm to
135 acres, and was making many valuable im-
provements when his busy career was cut short by
his untimely death, Nov. 13, 1866. He was a man
of excellent habits and sound repute, and during
his residence in Metamora Township, faithfully per-
formed his part in developing and promoting the
growth of the township. He was a good manager,
wise, thrifty, and prudent in money matters, and
directed his affairs so as to obtain the best financial
results. Such a man is a most desirable citizen in
any community, and his removal by death is a
misfortune. The deatli of the kind husband and
father was a terrible blow to his family. His
wife was thus left without his counsel and guid-
ance, witli five small children, the eldest but twelve
years old, and an unboin babe, who came into this
world three months after the sad death of the
father. The names of the children are: William
H., Arminel E., John T., Harriet, Fred R., Josie
M. William married Anna M. McOmber, a native
of Illinois, and a daughter of Isaac and Sarah
McOmber. She died March 31, 1886. leaving one
son, named Ralph R. Arminel E. married Rev.
J. C. H. Read, a Baptist minister of Moline, and
they have three children, Maud, Earl and Ray.
.John married Sadie Johnson, a native of New Jer-

sey, and a daughter of George and Mattie John-
son The three youngest children are at home
with their mother.

After her husband's death Mrs. Peard did not
sit down and vainly lament her loss, but bravely
took up the work that had fallen from his hands,
took charge of the farm, carrying it on so well as
to derive from its cultivation a good yearly
income. She carefully trained her children in
the path of duty, bringing them up to lead use-
ful and honorable lives, and giving them excel-
lent educations. She is a woman of more than
ordinary energy and capacity, a type of true wo-
manhood, large hearted, open handed, full of
charity for others, and has a noble life-record of
duty performed and work well done. She is an
example of the best class of the grand pioneer
women of Woodford County, to whom it is so
greatly indebted for its high social, moral and
material standing. A firm Christian, she is a
devoted member of the Baptist Church, and has
had the happiness to see all her children unite with
that church.

J' JOSEPH W. MEEK, Superintendent of the
Woodford County Almshouse, located at
Metamora, is a young man whose ability
' and force of character amply fit him for the
responsible position that he fills so well. He is a
native-born citizen of the county, Cruger Township
the place of his birth, and Feb. 21, 1850, the date
thereof. A biographical review of his parents,
Joseph and Barbara Meek, is given on another page
in this volume. The subject was reared in his na-
tive town, and there received the basis of his edu-
cation in the district schools, afterward pursuing
one term of study in the Eureka College. As soon
as he was large enough he assisted in the farm
work, and gained a good, practical knowledge of
agriculture in all its branches. He continued an
inmate of the parental household until 1886, and
in the meantime his father divided the farm with
him. In 1887 Mr. Meek rented his farm, having
been appointed to the lucrative position of Super-

196

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

intendent of the County Almshouse. and he has
ever since had charge of it. In his management of
the affairs thus entrusted to him he has displayed
great efficiency, carefully looking after the comfort
of the inmates and keeping them in good order and
giving close personal attention to all duties de-
volving upon him.

In the trials and responsibilities of his position
Mr. Meek is encouraged and assisted by a devoted
wife, to whom he was united in marriage Dec. 18,
1871. Their union has been blessed to them by
the birth of four sons Joseph Edward, Clarence
B. Perry and Frank. Mrs. Meek's maiden uarue
was Ella Boyd, and she is, like her husband, a na-
tive of Woodford County, born in Olio Township.
She is a daughter of Isaac and Elizabeth (Graves)
Boyd, natives of Kentucky, the father born in
Christian County. He was there reared, married,
and in 1847 came to Olio Township, of which he
wns quite an early settler. He bought a farm there,
on which he resided until 1854, when he returned
to Kentucky, and now lives in Carlisle County, that
State. His wife died in Olio Township when Mrs.
Meek was an infant.

Mr. Meek is a man of correct habits and sound
principles, and is, indeed, a credit to the citizen-
ship of his native county. He is endowed with a
cool head, calm judgment, and good business tact
that render him an invaluable official in the diffi-
cult position that he fills so skillfully. He and his
wife are prominent members of the Christian
Church, and faithfully perform their share in sup-
port of the Gospel.

P=^<RANK HUNZINGER, a prominent, well-to
j do fanner of Roanoke Township, has been
a resident of Woodford County for thirty
3'ears, coming here when a boy of sixteen, and dur-
ing that time he has been an important factor in de-
veloping its great agricultural interests, and he has
become the proprietor of 320 acres of rich farming
land, well stocked with cattle and horses of high
grades, and provided with a neat and substantial
set of frame buildings, pleasantly located on the

northeast quarter of section 35, two and one-half
miles south of the^ village of Roanoke.

Our subject was born on the 3d of April, 1842,
in Alsace, when it was a Province of France.
His father, Jacob Hunzinger, was a native of the
same place, while his father, George Hunzinger,
is supposed to have been a native of Switzerland,
who emigrated from there to Alsace, where he en-
gaged in agricultural pursuits, residing there until
his death. The father of our subject was reared
and married in his native land, and engaged in
farming there until 1860, when he disposed of his
property there and then followed his sons across;
the ocean to America. He located in Roanoke
Township, buying a farm here, and was a resident
of this place until his death. He and his wife were
the parents of five children Magdalena, Jacob,
Elizabeth, Frank, and John, all of whom came to
America.

Frank Hunzinger passed his boyhood in his na-
tive land, and in its excellent schools gleaned a
sound education, attending school quite regularly
until he was fourteen years old. He then assisted
his father on his farm until he was sixteen years
old. At that age the ambitious lad set out in the
world by himself, anxious to try life in America,
whither his brother Jacob had preceded him. He
set sail from Havre, France, in November, and
after a long and tedious voyage landed in New
York City in the following January, and at once
made his way to his brother in Woodford County,
this State. At that time he was a poor boy, his
sole capital being a sane mind in a sound body, but
he had inherited industrious and persevering habits
from his good parents, and these with other good
traits were enough to insure his success in any walk
in life. He at once sought and found work by the
month on a farm, and was thus employed until bis
father came, when he remained at home with him
the following two years to assist him in the man-
agement of his farm. He then began an independ-
ent life by farming on rented land. He was fairly
successful in that venture, and was enabled to make
a payment on eighty acres of land which he had
purchased, said land now being included in his
present farm. There were no buildings on it at that
time, and he at once began to make the necessary

PORTRAIT AM) BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

improvements. He has met with more than ordin-
ary success in his efforts to secure a home, and now
has a fine farm that is comparable with the best in
this locality in point of cultivation, good buildings,
etc. Our subject has been a hard worker in his
day, and by sound discretion, keen judgment and
far-sighted forethought, has acquired a valuable
property and placed himself among the most sub-
stantial citizens of his township.

In his work Mr. Hunzinger has not been without
the assistance of a faithful wife, to whom he owes
much for his present prosperous circumstances.
Her maiden name was Caroline Kuhl, and they
were united in marriage in 1867. Mrs. Hunzinger
was born in Woodford County, and is a daughter
of Henry Kuhl, a well-known pioneer of the county.
Mr. and Mrs. Hunzinger have six children, namely :
John, Amelia, Joseph, Jacob, Lena and Etta. The
family are prominent members of the Presbyterian
Church, and are generous in its support.

Although our subject is of foreign birth this
country has no more loyal citizen than he, the most
important part of his life having been passed here,
and he is thorougly attached to American institu-
tions and government. Politically, he is an intelli-
gent supporter of the principles promulgated by
the Democratic pnrt3 r . He is of the type of men
called self-made, and we may add that he is well
made. He is a keen observer, possesses ripe com-
mon-sense, prompt and systematic business habits,
and in his dealings with others is always fair and
square.

V ETER KENNEL, one of the most exten-
sive land owners of Woodford County, an
honored resident of Roanoke Township, is
distinguished as being one of the oldest
native-born citizens of the county, his birth
having occurred here in what is now Worth
Township, prior to the organization of the county.
His father John Kennel, an Alsacian by birth, was
a prominent and well-known pioneer of this section
of Illinois in the early days of its settlement, and
while engaged in the accumulation of a handsome
property he was an important factor in the devel-

opment of the wonderful agricultural resources of
this region, and thus helped promote the material
prosperity of the county. Our subject in his turn
has done much in that direction, and has contribu-
ted liberally of his wealth to advance the highest
interest of his native county.

The father of our subject was born near Stras-
burg, in the German province of Alsace, which
France ceded to Germany after the close of the
Franco-Prussian war. He received a very good
education in the public schools, and continued to
reside in his native land till he had attained man-
hood. He then came to the United States, ambili-
ous to see something of life and to improve his for-
tunes. He first located in Ohio, and though a
stranger in a strange land, his only capital good
health, a fine physique, and indomitable energy, he
soon found work, commencing his life on Ameri-
can soil by working out as a farm hand, receiving
eight dollars a month and his board. After work-
ing about for a time he concluded to come further
west, where he could secure cheap lands and have a
better chance to build up a home, and in 1830 he
made his appearance in Illinois, and located in
what is now Worth Township, Woodford County.
He made a claim to a tract of timbered land, the
land roundabout here then being owned by the
Government, and the most of it in its native con-
dition. He built a comfortable log house, splitting
the logs and hewing them down for a floor, riv-
ing out boards about four feet long to cover the
roof, and, having no nails, putting on heavy poles
fastened with wooden pins to keep the roof in place.
The rude chimney had a stone foundation, and was
made of earth and sticks. Mr. Kennel was a man
of more than ordinary industry, capacity and enter-
prise, possessing good judgment, and by years of
hard labor he not only improved a valuable farm,
but bought more land, and accumulated a hand-
some fortune. He lived on his farm for many
years till 1871, when he came to live with our sub-
ject and made his home with him till his death
Dec. 18, 1888. His wife had died on the old
homestead in Worth Township many years before.

The subject of this sketch was born in the hum-
ble log cabin that his father erected when he first
settled on his homestead irv Worth Township, July

198

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

3, 1833 being the date of his birth. He was
reared amid the pioneer scenes that obtained in
this part of the country then, and has a distinct
recollection of the wild aspect of the country in
those days before civilization had made much
progress in this region. In his youthful days one.
of his chief pleasures used to be to hunt the deer,
wild turkeys and other game that roamed at will
over the broad prairies, or sought shelter in the
woody coverts along the streams. He remained at
home with his parents till the time of his marriage,
when he moved on to a farm belonging to his father
in Worth Township two miles from the old home-
stead, and there the first three years of his wedded life
we re spent. In about 1859 lie settled on the place he
now owns and occupies on section 5, Roanoke Town-
ship. He inherited industrious habits, keen fore-
sight and other notable traits of character from his
parents and has met with more than ordinary success
in life. He is the proprietor of 1490 acres of land
in Roanoke and Linn townships, besides tracts of
land in Kansas and Nebraska, inheriting consider-
able real estate from his father. Our subject has
not gained his wealth by being penurious, as he
is very liberal, devoting much money to charitable
objects, and giving material aid to every enterprise
for the benefit of his township or county, while
his children have had every advantage afforded by
a good education in the public schools.

Mr. Kennel was married April 8, 1856 to Miss
Annie Schertz, and to them six children were born,
five of whom are now living Mary, John, Peter,
Katie, Joseph. Mary is the wife of Christian Eig-
stine, of Linn Township, and is the mother of six
children Susie Anna, Mary, Katie, Lizzie, Johnie,
Peter. John married Sarah Bachman, and the
other children are living with their parents. Mrs.
Kennel was born in France, about 1837, but when
she was an infant her parents, Peter and Magda-
lena Schertz, brought her to the United States.
They settled in "Worth Township, where her father
bought a tract of timber land, and improved a
good farm, on which he and his wife spent their
remaining years.

Mr. Kennel is classed among our best citizens,
and his course in life has reflected credit on his
native county, as he has always been true to him-

self and to others in all the relations of life as son,
husband, father, neighbor, friend. He and his
wife are, members of the Mennonite Church, and are
worthy disciples of the faith. In politics, Mr. Ken-
nel is a decided Republican.

AVID MARSHALL OWEN, Sheriff of
Woodford County, occupies an honorable
position among its native-born citizens,
and his career, both in public and private
life, justifies the high opinion of his merit that the
people hold among whom his entire life has been
passed, and their confidence in his singular fitness
for the responsible office which he so ably fills.

Our subject was born in Cazenovia Township,
March 10, 1843, a son of James Owen, one of the
earliest settlers of Woodford County, a pioneer of
Cazenovia Township, of which he is still an hon-
ored resident. He was a Virginian by birth, born
in Halifax County Jan. 1, 1801. His father, Wal-
ter Owen, was born in the same county, and his
grandfather, David Owen, was likewise a native of
Virginia, and was there reared and married. In
the year 1815 he emigrated from the home of
his birth to the State of Kentucky, and made
his home in Barren County with his children
till his death, in 1818. The grandfather of our
subject was reared and married in Virginia, and
removed from there to Kentucky about 1815,
going there with his family with a team. After
living in Barren County, that State, nearly three
years, he came to Illinois and beame an early pio-
neer of AVayne County. At that time the country
was very wild, giving scarcely any signs of civil-
ization, and deer, wolves, panthers and wild cats
were plentiful. He entered a tract of land from
the Government, the greater p^art of it being Urn
ber, and building a rude log house on the place
for a dwelling, he commenced the hard task of
clearing a farm. The nearest market was at Carmi,
twenty miles distant, on the Little Wabash River,
the approach to the town being over rough, and
sometimes almost impassable roads, and the nearest

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

199

mill was also at that point. Mr. Owen improved
the greater part of his land, and resided there
many years. Finally, he and his wife removed to
Marshall County, and there spent their last days
with their son Nathan.

The maiden name of the- grandmother of our
subject was P^lizabeth Martin, and she was born in
Halifax County, Va., a daughter of David and
Elizabeth Martin. Six of the children born to her
and her husband grew to maturity Nathan, Jo-
seph, Elizabeth, James, Daniel, Celia A. The
father of our subject was about sixteen years
old when his parents removed to the State of Ken-
tucky, and he resided with them till their removal
to Illinois, and still continued with them during
their residence in Wayne County. As related be-
fore, wild game was then very plentiful in Wayne
County, and he soon became an expert hunter,
and killed many a bear, deer, or other wild game,
and was thus enabled to add many a delicious
feast to the humble pioneer fare of the early set-
tlers. He was a youth of intense religious feeling,
and early united with the United Baptist Church,
and while in Wayne County preached very accept-
ably for the members of that denomination. In
1 835 he came to that part of Tazewell County
now in Woodford Count}', and entered a tract of
wild prairie land on section 19, Cazcnovia Town-
ship, on which he, has since dwelt for fifty-four
years. He at once built the house in which he has
since lived, building it of round logs, which lie
afterward hewed, and has since weather boarded
and ceiled. For some years his wife used to cook
all the meals by the fire in the open fireplace, and
she spun and wove all the cloth used in the fam-
ily. Mr. Owen is distinguished as being the oldest
settler residing in Cazenovia Township, and one
of the oldest in the county. He is now in his
eighty-ninth year, and notwithstanding his ad-
vanced age, enjoys a fair degree of health, and
retains his mind and memory to a remarkable
degree. He has not only improved a good fartr, but
lias been an instrument in aiding the development
of the agricultural resources of the county. He
came here several years before its organization,
and has witnessed almost its entire growth from a
wilderness to a good state of cultivation. There

were no railways in the early days of the settlement
of this part of the country, and means of com-
munication with the outside world were meagre
and slow. The wild prairies were scarcely in-
habited, and nearly all the land was in the hands
of the Government, and for sale at $1.25 per acre.
The settlements in the county were confined to the
timber and along the streams, as the first settlers
did not realize the value of the rich, virgin prai-
ries as farming lands.

Soon after coming to this county, Mr. Owen
joined the Christian Church, and became one of
its most influential members, and was a local
preacher in the church for many years. To him,
Parker Morse, Sr., and Thomas Jones belongs the
honor of having organized the first school district
in the State of Illinois, and drawing the first funds
from the treasury for the first free school taught
in the State. Mr. Owen was married, Dec. 24,
1824, to Miss Candace King, a native of Kentucky,
and a daughter of John and Susan King. She
died April 12,1869. Five of the children born
to the parents of our subject are now living, viz:
Thomas, John, David M., J. Madison and Mar}- J.

David Owen, of whom these lines are written,
received his early education in the pioneer schools
of his native county, and was further advanced by
attendance at the college at Eureka, where he
pursued an excellent course of study. At the early
age of fifteen he commenced to teach school, and
was thus engaged for eight winter terms and three
summer terms, and when not employed in teach-
ing, he gave his attention to farming. In 1866
he bought eighty acres of timber land near his
father's farm, but never located on it, however,
but continued to reside on the old homestead
where he had been born and bred, and which was
under his management. He devoted his spare
time to clearing his land and improving a farm,
which he afterward sold at a good profit. After
his election to the important post of Sheriff of
Woodford County, he left his old home and removed
to Metamora with his family for greater conveni-
ence in the transaction of business.

January 26, 1870, Mr. Owen took unto himself
a wife in the person of Miss Susan King, and
one child, Myrtle, has blessed their happy wedded

200

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

life. Mrs. Owen was born in Marshall County,
111., and is a daughter of Enoch and Celia (Owen)
King.

Our subject is well-educated and well-informed,
possessing much natural force of character, phys-
ical and moral courage, and is fully equal to the
weighty responsibilities devolving on him in his
present position. While residing in his native town-
ship, he bore an honorable part in the manage-
ment of its public affairs, serving with ability as
Township Assessor and as School Director. He is
a Democrat in his political sentiments, firmly be-
lieving the policy of that party the right one to
be pursued in the government of the country. Re-
ligiously, botli he and his amiable wife are estim-
able members of the Christian Church, true disciples
of the faith.

J~ OHN KELLOGG, a native of Vermont, is a
| good specimen of the sons of New England
who have actively aided in the development
1 of Woodford County as a great agricultural
center. He is spending his declining years in his
pleasant home in Metamora, where he is still en-
gaged in tilling the soil. His fine farm, lying partly
in this township and the remainder in Cazenovia
and Roanoke townships, shows in the abundant
harvests it yields and in its neatly appointed build-
ings, every evidence of assiduous cultivation and
careful improvement.

Mr. Kellogg was born in the town of Stowe, La-
moille Co., Vt., Nov. 20, 1816. His father, War-
ner Kellogg, was likewise a Vermonter by birth, a
native of the town of Paulet. His father. Aaron
Kellogg came from England to this country with
two brothers when he was a young man , and settled
in Vermont. Some years after his marriage he be-
came a pioneer of Stowe, and there spent his last
years. He bought a tract of heavily timbered land,
and before his death had developed a part of it into
a good farm. The father of our subject was five
years old when his parents settled in Stowe, and he
there grew to man's estate. He inherited his father's
land, and was actively engaged in its improvement

for many years. In 1853 he sold his property in
Vermont, having decided to try life in the marvel-
ous agricultural regions of the West, and coming
to Illinois he arrived in Clinton, De Witt County,
the 1st of September. He explored the country
around there, but not being quite satisfied witli it,
later in the fall cnme to this county, and five or
six weeks after his arrival in Metamora his life was
brought to a sudden close, and thus a citizen was
lost to this community who might have been of
great use in its upbuilding. The mother of our
subject, whose maiden name was Janet Gregg, a
native of Vermont, born in Waterbury, of which
her parents, natives of Connecticut, were pioneers,
died in Stowe, Vt.. in 1851. To her and her hus-
band were born twelve children, eleven of whom
lived to maturity.

John Kellogg, the subject of this biography, was
bred amid the pretty hill scenes of his native State,
and fortified by strong principles inherited from
his worthy parents, he started out into the world
to make life's journey on his own account in 1837.
He went to Ohio by the way of Lake Cham plain
and Erie Canal to Buffalo, thence by Lake Erie to
Cleveland, from there by canal to Columbus, whence
he took a team to Champaign County. lie worked
on a farm there until 1843, when he returned to
Vermont, and engaged in farming on his own ac-
count until 1853. He then sold all his possessions
in the Green Mountain State, and in the month of
March started on a second journey westward. He
stopped in Champaign County, Ohio, until the fol-
lowing February, and in that month came to Met-
amora and settled on the farm that is still in his
possession. There were but few improvemets here
then, and it has been Mr. Kellogg's good fortune
to witness much of the development of this part of
the county, and not only that, but to aid in its up-
building himself. His homestead of eighty acres
is all well improved, and he has besides eighty
acres of fine farming land near by in Cazenovia
Township, and forty acres in Roanoke Township,
all under excellent cultivation.

Mr. Kellogg has been twice married. The first
time in Champaign County, Ohio, in 1837, to Miss
Laura Darling, a native of Woodstock, Windsor
Co., Vt., and a daughter of Joseph and Nellie

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

201

Darling. After a happy wedded life of six years
she died in 1843, leaving one child, Warner, now
residing in Cazenovia Township. The second mar-
riage of our subject, which took place in Vermont
in 1847, was to Dorothy W. Boynton, like himself
a native of Stowe, Vt., and a daughter of David
and Martha (Warren) Boynton. Mr. and Mrs.
Kellogg have two children living Martha and
Phebe. Their son Lorenzo Dow died at the age of
fourteen years.

During his many years' residence here Mr. Kel-
logg has shown himself to be a conscientious, God-
fearing man, whose life-record is without blemish.
He and his wife are attendants of the Baptist
Church, and are active in its support. He is a loyal
adherent of the Democratic party in his political
views.

'OHN ELLIS. The farming community of
El Paso Township acknowledges a most
worthy representative in the subject of this
notice. Quite well advanced in years, he is
one of the oldest farmers and stock-raisers in the
county, and is now living retired from active labor,
his residence being in West El Paso, where he has
a very pleasant and comfortable home. This he
has occupied for the last ten years, and has become
a familiar figure to the residents of the city. Prior
to this he lived on a fine farm of 200 acres in Pal-
estine Township, this county, which he improved
from the raw ptairie, and upon which he settled in
1857, remaining there until taking possession of
his present home. In connection with farming he
operated a dairy, and was generally successful in his
various enterprises.

The subject of our sketch emigrated from En-
land when a poor man, earl}- in life, and settled in
New Jersey, where he lived four and one-half
years. He was born in the North Riding of York-
shire, Nov. 6, 1816, and of pure English stock. His
father, Sylvester Ellis, made his living by honest
labor, mostly at fanning, and when a young man was
married to a maiden of his own shire. Miss Mary
Render. They reared their family and spent their
last days a few miles from the place of their birth.

The father lived to the advanced age of eighty-
four years, and the mother died when seventy-five
years old. They were Episcopalians in religion,
and worthy, honest people, who commanded uni-
versal respect wherever known. They were the
parents of one child only, the subject of this sketch.

John Ellis received careful home training, and
remained with his parents until his marriage. This
important and interesting event was celebrated in
North Riding, in May, 1836, the bride being Miss
Mary Nettleton, who was born in Yorkshire, May
1, 1815. Her parents, Joseph and Anna (Toole)
Nettleton, were likewise natives of Yorkshire,
where they settled after their marriage, and where
they spent the remainder of their lives, both attain-
ing nearly three-score years. Like the Ellis family
they were Episcopalians in religion, and highly
respected in their community.

Mr. and Mrs. Ellis after their marriage continued
the habits of industry in which they had been
trained, and worked together with a mutual pur-
pose to obtain a home and a competence. Our
subject, however, was not satisfied with the prog-
ress he was making financially, and after lie had
become the father of several children, he in the
early part of 1852 came to America. After a few
month's sojourn in New Jersey he returned to
England during the summer of that same year, and
brought back with him his family, landing in New
York City upon the day that Franklin Pierce was
elected President of the United States. He went
to New Jersey and established himself and his little
family at Weston, in Somerset County, where they
lived four and one-half years, and then came to
Illinois, as already indicated. Settling in Wood-
ford County, Mr. Ellis improved a piece of wild
land in Palestine Township, and after years of un-
remitting toil finally found himself financially on
solid ground.

To our subject and his excellent wife there was
born a large family of children, two of whom are
deceased: One died in infancy, and Thomas was
taken from the household circle at the age of
thirty-seven; John, Jr., the eldest living, is Presi-
dent of the Peoples' Bank, at Beatrice, Neb.;
Mary is the wife of Robert Hitch, a farmer of El
Paso Township; Joseph is farming in Grant Town-

202

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

ship, Gage County, and he is also a Director in the
Peoples' Bank at Beatrice; Jane is the wife of
Harry Hitch, a farmer of Hamilton County, Neb.;
Margaret, Mrs. Charles Campbell, is a resident of
Wichita, Kan. ; Thomas S. occupies the old home-
stead in Palestine Township. Our subject, politi-
cally, is a sound Republican, and Mrs. Ellis is a
member in good stand ing of the Methodist Episcopal
Church. In addition to his other interests, Mr.
Ellis owned a large elevator in West El Paso. This
has a capacity of 30,000 bushels of grain ; he has
recently sold it, and it is operated by another party
to whom Mr. Ellis transferred the business some-
time since.

WALTER H. HA MM. Among the men who,
during the early settlement of Panola
Township, improved a farm from the wil-
derness, may be worthily mentioned the subject of
this notice. Ho has now wisely retired from the
active labors of life, having taken up his residence
in El Paso in the fall of 1888, and is living in the
enjoyment of the competence which he secured
through arduous toil, economy and good manage-
ment. He owns eighty acres of choice land on sec-
tion 22 in Panola Township, 120 acres on section
9, and eighty acres on section 16, the homestead
being on the latter.- This he built up from a raw
prairie, cultivating the soil, erecting buildings and
instituting the improvements in keeping with the
ideas of modern agriculture. He began farming
in Panola Township in 1861, of which he was a
continuous resident until his removal to El Paso.
Mr. Ilamm came to this county from New York
State, where he had lived in Putnam County eight-
een months, and to which he had removed from
Livingston County, of which he had been a resi-
dent five years. Prior to this he had been a resi-
dent of Columbia County, N. Y., near the Duchess
County line. He was born in Gallatin Township,
Putnam County, Sept. 6, 1830, and is the son of
Peter P. Hamm, a native of Columbia County,
N. Y. The paternal grandfather, Peter Ilamm,
was of German parentage and ancestry and lived
to be seventy-eight years old. He died in Scho-

harie County. His wife in her girlhood was Mary
Hamm. She died in Massachusetts when ninety-
one years old and was a member of the German
Reformed Church.

Peter P. Hamm, the father of our subject, was
the eldest in a family of seven sons and five daugh-
ters. He was reared to manhood in Columbia
County, N. Y., being brought up on a farm, and
still lives in the county of his birth, being now
ninety-three years old. He presents a remarkable
picture of health and strength, both of mind and
body, the result of temperate habits and correct
living. He married in early manhood Miss Clara
Van Allen, a native of the same State, and who
died in 1882 at the age of eighty-two years. Both
were members of the Presbyterian Church. Walter
H. was their only son in a family of eight children,
all of whom lived to mature years.

Our subject received his early education in the
common schools of his native county, spending his
boyhood and youth on the farm and coming to
Illinois with the family. He was married in this
county to Miss Lucinda Allen, who was born in
Muskingum County, Ohio. June 17, 1847. When
a child of seven years she came with her parents,
John and Susan (Marion) Allen, to Illinois, and
they are now living in Lexington, McLean County,
being quite well advanced in years. Mr. Allen has
attained to nearly fourscore years. They came to
this State in 1853; both are members of the United
Brethren Church. In former years tlrey belonged
to the Methodist Church.

Mrs. Hamm was a mere child when her parents
came to Illinois. Of her union with our subject
there have been born four children, one of whom
died in infancy. Clara remains at home with her
parents; she is a bright and accomplished young
lady, having been graduated from the El Paso High
School. Susan is also a graduate from this school
and remains under the parental roof; Ira L. is still
pursuing his studies in that institution. Mr. and
Mrs. Hamm are active members of the United
Brethren Church, in which our subject has held
various positions of trust and responsibility for
some years back. He was instrumental in the or-
ganization of the church in Panola Township and
was Superintendent of the first Sunday-school there.

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

205

Politically, he conscientiously supports the princi-
ples of the Republican party.

John Allen, the father of Mrs. Hamm, was born
in England and lived there until a youth of sixteen
years. In the meantime his father died, and in 1826
he emigrated to the United States accompanied by
his mother. The latter spent her last years in
Zanesville, Ohio, living to the great age of nearly
one hundred years. The great-grandfather of Mrs.
Hamm was game-keeper for an English nobleman.

Mrs. Susan Allen, the mother, was born in Penn-
sylvania nnd was of German or Holland-Dutch de-
scent. She removed to Ohio with her parents when
quite young and is now living in Lexington, being
seventy-six years of age.

| OHN W. PAGE, a veteran of the Mexican
| War, familiarly known as "Uncle John," is
a beloved and honored citizen of Metamora,
with whose interests his own have been
identified for more than half a century. His name
is indissolubly associated with the growth and
progress of Woodford County almost from its
origin, as he has always been foremost in all enter-
prises to promote its development, and there has
been no scheme evolved for the advancement of
the business and social interests of Metamora, with
which he has not been prominently connected. He
has also been a conspicuous figure in public life,
and has held many important offices of trust. He
was for many years a prosperous agriculturist here,
but finally turned his attention to commercial pur-
suits as a merchant, and later combined that busi-
ness with banking, and he lias done much to
strengthen the financial condition of the county.

Our subject, comes of a long line of New Eng-
land ancestry, and among his progenitors were
some who located in that part of the country in
very early colonial times, when it was first settled
by the English, they being pioneers there, ns their
descendants have been in the great West. Mr.
Page was born in Gilmanton, Belknap Co.. N. H.,
Jan. 13, 1814. His father, Jo'm Page, was born
in the same town, Oct. 28, 1787, while his father,

Andrew Page, was bo'rn in Salisbury, Mass., July
20. 1751. Moses Page, the great-grandfather of
our subject, was born in Salisbury, Essex Co.,
Mass.. Sept. 3, 1726. His father, John Page, was
born in Dedham, Mass., June 17, 1696, and was a
son of the Hon. John Page, who was a na-
tive of Dedham, England, and is the first one of
the ancestors of our subject mentioned as coming
to America, he having made his appearance in this
country in 1630. lie was one of the first settlers
of the town of Dedham, Mass., and there spent the
remainder of his life. His son, John, married Mary
Winslow, and settled in the town of Salisbury,
Mass., living there the remainder of his life. His
son Moses married Judith French, daughter of Ben-
jamin French, Sr., and resided in his native town,
Sailsbury, many years thereafter. Finally he joined
his children in Gilmanton, N. H., and passed his
last days with them. His son, Andrew, married
Elizabeth Page, and was one of the first settlers of
Gilmanton; the removal from his old home by the
sea in Massachusetts to the New Hampshire hills
being made on horseback. He bought a tract of
land in the primeval forest, and at once cleared
the trees from a small piece that he might cultivate
it, and chopped in the seed with a hoe, and in due
season harvested a goodly crop from the virgin
soil. After felling the timber from that tract of
land, he purchased another in the same town, and
improved a farm upon which he resided until his
demise.

The father of our subject was reared to agricul-
tural pursuits. He received a good academical
education, and commenced teaching when quite
young, and taught a number of terms of winter
school. He married and settled in his native State,
and becoming quite prominent in public affairs, his
time was occupied by official duties. He served as
Justice of the Peace for many years, and for three
terms was a prominent member of the State Legis-
lature of New Hampshire. He continued to reside
there till 1835, and then, animated by the bold
pioneer spirit that had led his ancestors across the
sea, he started with his family for the wild prairies
of the West, and coming to Illinois, located in
Metamora. The village had not then been platted,
and there was not a house on its present site. He

206

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

entered a tract of land, a part of which is included
in the limits of the present city, improvising a rude
dwelling for the shelter of his family by procuring
some forked stakes from the timber, which lie stuck
in the ground, and then put up some poles, and
covered them with boards. This building not
proving water-tight, he rived some oak shingles
and covered the boards. He lived in that habita-
tion two or three years, and then built a more sub-
stantial frame house, residing there till his death,
Oct. 1, 1855. In the meantime lie improved a good
farm. Here, as in his native State, he was active
in public affairs, and held various offices of trust
and honor. He served as representative in the Ill-
inois Legislature. He was a Democrat, and bore
an honorable part in the councils of his party. He
was always deeply interested in educational matters,
assisted in organizing the school districts, and was
school director and treasurer. His good wife, to
whom he was united in ma'rriage April 15, 1811,
survived him many yeais, her death occurring on the
home farm. Dec. 16, 1872. Her maiden name was
Betsy Wilson, and she was born March 27, 1791, a
daughter of Nathaniel and Bets}' (True) Wilson.
She was a direct descendant of one Thomas Wilson,
who came from Scotland to America in 1633. He
was one of the Wheelwright Compact in Exeter,
N. H., in 1638. The next in line was his son
Humphrey, who was followed by his son Thomas,
and after him came another Humphrey, whose son.
Capt. Nathaniel Wilson, great-grandfather of our
subject, was born June 24, 1739, and commanded
a company in the continental army during the
Revolution. His son, the Rev. Nathaniel Wilson,
was born Aug. 8, 1769, and was a preacher in the
Baptist Church, but also engaged in the mercantile
business and in farming. He lived many years in
Gilmanton, N. H., but passed his last days in Barn-
stead. The maiden name of his first wife, grand-
mother of our subject, was Betsy True. The
following is recorded of the ten children born to the
parents of our subject: Elizabeth married Benja-
min G. Kendig, now deceased; our subject is the
next in order of birth ; Elvira married William II.
Banta, and lives in Warsaw, Iowa; Andrew lives
in Wyoming; for account of Adiuo sec sketch of
John L. McGuire; Samuel True lives in Metamora;

Moses P. lives in Wayne County, Iowa; Thadcus;
Mary K. died when two years old; Benjamin Edwin
was killed before Spanish Fort in the late war. S.
True served in the 4th Illinois in the Mexican War,
and took part in the battles of Cerro Gordo and Vera
Cruz. Early in the late war he offered his services
to his country, and was mustered in as a member
of the 108th Illinois Infantry, and was with his
regiment till the close of hostilities, taking part in
many important battles. Benjamin Edwin enlisted
as a soldier in the same regiment, and took part in
many hotly contested battles, and finally gave up
his life for his country at the battle of Spanish
Fort.

John W. Page, of whom we write, passed his
early life in his native town, receiving the bestedu-
ational advantages afforded by the local schools.
When nineteen years of age, he went out into the
world beyond his birthplace, and in Charlestown,
Mass., was engaged in brick-making two seasons.
In the winter of 1834-35 he taught a term of
school in the town of Alton, N. H. In the mouth
of June, 1835, he sought fairer opportunities and
broader fields of work on the ample, generous
prairies of Illinois, making the journey by stage as
far as Troy, N. Y.; thence by the Erie Canal to
Buffalo; from there on Lake Erie to Cleveland;
thence, across Ohio by canal to Portsmouth; and
there he embarked on a boat for the voyage on the
Ohio, Mississippi and Illinois rivers to Pekin, this
State: and from there he came by team to his des-
tination in Woodford County, having been a mouth
on the way. This section of the country then
formed a part of Tazewell County, and the land,
which was still owned by the Government, was for
sale at $1.25 per acre.

Our subject entered the southwest quarter of sec-
tion 20, in what is now Metamora Township, and
then proceeded at once to erect a frame house, hew-
ing the frame and splitting boards for weather
boards and shingles, and for the door, providing
the latter with wooden hinges and a wooden latch.
His family moved into this dwelling before the
doors and windows were in, hanging blankets over
the openings to keep out the wild animals. Not
having the necessary furniture, a chest was used for
a table and trunks for seats till Mr. Page could split

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

207

some boards for a table and make some chairs.
When he came here, his entire wealth consisted of
1120 in cash, and having borrowed 8200 of his
uncle to enter his land, he soon sold his father
eighty acres of his land in part payment at the
value of $100, and after paying his uncle the other
$100 that he had borrowed of him, he had $20 left.
He invested $14 of that in a cow, and having but
$6 left, he was obliged to work out by the day to
earn money with which to support his family. He
soon bought a pair of steers, but before he had
paid for them they died. Notwithstanding all
the discouragements of pioneer life and the many
sacrifices required, he never became disheartened,
but pressed on toward the success he achieved in
after life. He continued to work out, and the next
spring he bought a pair of oxen and took some
steers to train, and thus brought a good breaking
team together. In 1837 he rented an improved
farm at Walnut Grove, and by its profitable culti-
vation obtained money to continue improvements
on his own land. There were no railways here for
many years, and Peoria was the principal market,
though considerable grain was taken to Chicago,
125 miles distant.

Our subject was prosperously engaged in farm-
ing till 1856, when he turned his attention to the
mercantile business, and after serving as clerk in a
general store a year, he formed a partnership with
his brother Adino, who still continued to reside in
Massachusetts, and they engaged in the grocery
business, and two years later added dry goods, and
in 1875 engaged in the banking business with their
other interests. They carried on a large and lucra-
tive business till 1885, when, his brother dying, our
our subject closed out the business, and has since
lived retired, in the enjoyment of the handsome
income that he derives from the fine properly
that he has accumulated by wise management
and superior business qualifications. Mr. Page
is a veteran of the Mexican War, having en-
listed in 1846, in the 4th Illinois Infantry, lie
went to Tampico, Mex., filled with soldierly ardor,
but the climate did not agree with him, and after
serving efficiently till 1847, he was honorably dis-
charged on account of disability.

Mr. Page and Miss Rebecca E. Page were united

in 'marriage Jan. 13, 1835. They have one son
now living. Charles Alvin. Two children died in
infancy. Their daughter, Ann E., died in her
twenty -first year, and their son, John True, died at
eighteen years of age. Rebecca E. Page was born
in South Montville, Me., June 11, 1812, and is the
daughter of True and Abigail (Edgerly) Page.

Mr. Page's life-career has been distinguished by
rare energy and stability of character, and prompt
and systematic business habits, combined with hon-
orable and conscientious dealings, and his course
furnishes an illustrious example to the young who
are just starting out in the world to seek fortune's
favors. He enjoys a high personal standing through-
out the count}', and holds a warm place in the
hearts of hosts of friends, and is one of the very
few men of whom every one speaks well. During
his long residence here of more than half a century,
he has been conspicuously identified with the polit-
ical and public life of Woodford County from its
very beginning. When the county was organized,
there was quite a struggle among the in habitants as
to the location of the county seat. Being a resi-
dent of Metamora, he threw his influence with his
fellow-citizens in favor of this city, and they car-
ried the day, securing the location of the county
seat here, and making Metamora an important
metropolis of a rich agricultural region. Mr. Page
has always been foremost in all enterprises for the
good of the county, and when a company was or-
ganized to build a railway from Metamora to Wash-
ington, he became one of its most prominent
members, and was Treasurer of the company.
There has not been a worth}' enterprise inaugurated
in Metamora for the benefit of the city with which
he has not been connected. A pronounced ad-
herent of the Democratic party, he has always
been one of its most intelligent and liberal sup-
porters. His fellow-citizens have honored him by
election to various offices of trust, which lie lias
filled with characteristic fidelity and ability. He
has served as Coroner, as Superintendent of Schools,
two terms as County Treasurer, and he has also
served as School and Village Treasurer many years.
He has been a member of the Masonic fraternity
many years, first belonging to Metamora Lodge,
No. 42; later joining Woodford Chapter, No. 110,

208

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

and Metamora Council, and lie has been for several
years a member of the Peoria Commandery, No. 3.
He and his wife are people of high Christian prin-
ciples, disciples of the Baptist faith, being members
of that church, and worshiping at Union Church
in Metamora.

A portrait of Mr. Page appears on another page,
and will be looked upon with affectionate interest
by his man}' friends, who esteem him highly for
his beauty of soul and depth of mind.

ON. JOEL A. RANNEY, a representative
citizen of Woodford County, is classed
among its most intelligent, successful farm-
ers and stock raisers. lie is the son of a
pioneer family, and the old homestead on which
he lives was at the time of his father's purchase in
the early days of the settlement of this region, a
tract of wild, uncultivated prairie land. Now,
with its well-tilled acres, its neat and commodious
buildings, and various modern improvements, it is
considered one of the most desirable farms in the
locality.

Mr. Ranney comes of honorable New England
blood, and is himself a native of that part of the
country, born amid the beautiful hills of Windsor
County, Vt., in the pretty town of Stockbridge,
Oct. 18, 1831. His father, Deacon Joel Ranney,
was a native of the same town, a son of Daniel
Hanney, who is supposed to have been born in
Westminster, Windham Co., Vt. He was a farmer
by occupation, and spent his last years in Wind-
sor County. The father was there reared and mar-
lied, and when he settled down in life he bought a
farm in Stockbridge, and later in Barnard. In
1838 he sold his possessions in iiis native State and
with his wife and two children started on the then
long and tedious journey to the western wilds of
Illinois, the entire trip being made in a wagon
drawn by two horses, carrying the household goods
along. Six weeks and four days later the family
arrived at their destination in this county, and
soon after the father bought a tract of wild prairie
land in what is now Metamora Township. He

erected a frame house for the shelter of his family,
and at once commenced to prepare the land for cul-
tivation. There were then no railways here,
and for many years the nearest markets were at
Peoria and Lacon. Jan. 14, 1848, the father's use-
ful career was brought to an end by his untimely
death, he being then in the prime of a vigorous
manhood, aged forty-two years and eight months.
A citizen of great worth was thus lost to his com-
munity, one who while working to build up a com-
petence for himself and family, contributed to the
material progress of his adopted township. His
wife survived him till July 18, 1858, when she too
passed away, her death occurring on the old home-
stead. She carried blessing, comfort and care to
the sick and afflicted, and so ordered her household
that " her children arise up and call her blessed."
Her maiden name was Elizabeth T. Morse, and she
was born in Antrim, N. II., a daughter of Parker
Morse. (For her parental history see sketch of L.
P. Morse.) Two children wore born of her mar-
riage, our subject and his sister. Esther J., who
married Alvin Packard, and lives near Blooming-
ton, 111.

He of whom we write was six years old when his
parents brought him to this county, and he gleaned
his education in the pioneer schools of that day.
As soon as he was large enough he commenced to
assist his father on the farm, and has always made
his home on the old homestead, which he thus early
aided in improving. He now has 200 acres of as
fine farming land as is to be found in this localit}',
and has a good set of substantial frame buildings
and all the conveniences for carrying on agricul-
ture successfully. Sept. 4, 1856, Mr. Ranney was
united in the holy bonds of matrimony to Miss
Frances L. Everett, a woman whose many amiable
qualities endear her to those around her, and whose
capabilities have made her a model wife and mother.
Her father, Deacon Willard Everett, came from
Francestown, N. H., in 1843, bringing with him his
wife, and a family of small children, but not much
property. Industry and economy enabled him to
support his family, and educate his children, and
obtain a fair competency. He was an active work-
er in the anti-slavery and temperance causes, and
an earnest Christian, and a member of the Congre-

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

209

gational Church. The mother of Mrs. Ranney
was Frances C. S. Dodge, and she, like her husband,
took an active interest in all good work. The
union of our suliject and his wife lias been blessed
to them by the birth of eight children, of whom
four are living Lillie F., Mark .!., Justin M., Milo
M. Lillie is the wife of Dr. Mansfield, of Metamo-
r.a, and they have one child, Esther.

Mr. Ranney has a well-balanced mind, and is
dowered with firmness, decision, and that sturdy
self-respect and rectitude of character that com-
mands the confidence of all, and has won him a
high place in the councils of his fellow-citizens,
lie has represented Metamora Township on the
County Board of Supervisors with credit to him-
self, and has advanced the best interests of his
township and county. His fellow-citizens have
honored him and themselves by electing him to the
State Legislature, first in 1876, and so satisfacto-
rily did he fill that high position that they re-elect-
ed him in the fall of 1878. His whole course while
a member of that distinguished body showed him
to be actuated by the purest and most patriotic mo
lives, and marked him as a practical statesman who
never for a moment prostituted public office for
private ends. He takes an active and intelligent
interest in politics, was in early manhood and in
ante-bellum times an outspoken, earnest Abolition-
ist. After the formation of the Republican party,
sympathizing deeply with the sentiments of its
founders, he joined its ranks, and has ever since
remained true to its principles. Religiously, Mr.
and Mrs. Ranney and their three eldest children
are members in high standing of the Congregational
Church.

- ACOB KNAPP. One of the most enterpris-
ing residents of Clayton Township, and also
one of the most active members and liberal
supporters of the Lutheran Church of his
community, is Jacob Knapp. His home is at pre-
sent on section 10, Clayton Township, but it is his
intention in the spring of 1890, to removed to Mi-
nonk, where he has business poperty. Mr. Knapp
has been so fortunate in business, that he is HOT the

owner of four fine farms, each comprising about
160 acres. These will be a valuable legacy to his
four children, whom lie has already assisted through
the troublesome years of the beginning of a busi-
ness life. Besides this land, he also owns 320 acres
of land in Nebraska. Not only does he own this
property, but he is able to say that he owes no man,
as he believes it always a good plan to be in debt
to no one.

In politics he is a supporter of Republican prin-
ciples, and has always assisted his friends to official
positions, though never desiring them for himself.
Like many other Germans, who have made this
county their home, he has taken up the beliefs, and
adopted the principles of his new home, and is in
truth a citizen of the United States in the love he
bears his adopted country.

His wife was in her youth Miss Philipena Mock,
with whom he was united in marriage, June 3, 1852.
She was a native of the same town as her husband,
they having attended school together in childhood
clays. They became the parents of two sons and
two daughters, viz: Philipena, wife of William
Barth; Lizzie, who is the wife of Charles II. Dan-
forth; Jacob is married to Miss Caroline Shaffer;
and John P. They all received good educations,
and were well fitted and prepared for life's work.
The}' are now comfortably settled in their homes,
and owe their present prosperous condition to the
earnest, well-directed efforts of their father and
mother, as well as to tl^eir own energy.

Mr. Knapp came to America in 1849, but dates
his residence in Wood ford County from the year
1858. He was a native of Hanksbyer, German}-,
and was born Feb. 15, 1824. During his youth he
assisted his aged parents in whatever was needed to
be done, and lightened their burdens a3 they came
near the closing years of life. He also served in
the German army between the years 1846 and 1849.
The latter year he sought a home here in America,
where he landed August 15. He did not remain
in New York City where he had landed, but went
almost immediately to Boston, and secured a posi-
tion in a sugar-house as clerk. But not content
with the East, and having heard of the great possi-
bilities of the Western land, he was induced to
j emigrate to Illinois in 1854. On the 14th of Sep-

210

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

tember he stopped at Lacou, where he remained all
winter. He found employment in splitting rails
and chopping wood, his remuneration therefor be-
ing fifty cents per day. He lived in an old log
cabin built in the primitive style of architecture,
for which he paid $3 rent per month, and for his
firewood had to pay $1. The following spring he
had saved enough money to buy a team and to rent
a farm. From that time on he was prospered,
gradually working his way to independence. In
1858 he purchased eight}- acres of his present farm,
paying for it the sum of $16 per acre. It was rail-
road land, and when bought, was in the primitive
condition of nature, but through his industry has
been transformed to a pleasant homestead. When
he settled on this place, he was able to pay only
the interest money, $86. Persistent effort has
brought its own reward, and he now lives sur-
rounded by all tlie comforts of life, secure in the
knowledge that his old age will be protected from
want, and that he will leave his family amply pro-
vided for. He lias not only been successful finan-
cially, but ho and his family have endeared them-
selves to all the neighborhood by th eir many
kindnesses to those in trouble. Their friends are
always welcome to their hospitable home, while
they are in turn honored guests in the best homes
in Wood ford County.

ESTER B. BARTON, of pioneer anteced-
ents, and himself an early settler of Meta-
mora Township, of which he is still an hon-
ored resident, has long been connected with the
extensive farming interests of Woodford County.
He is a worthy descendant of noble New England
stock, and numbers among his ancestors some of
the original settlers of Massachusetts. His pater-
nal grandfather was a pioneer physician and
preacher of Tennessee, and in the next generation
our subject's parents were early pioneers of Illinois.
The subject of this bi->graphy was born April 20,
1820. in Overtoil County, Tenn. His father,
Theodore S. Barton, was a native of Worcester

County,Mass, and his grandfather, the Rev. Titus B.
Barton, was also born in Massachussetts. He was
a man of more than ordinary intellectual ability,
distinguished by moral excellence, and was highly
educated for the times, being a graduate of Dar-
mouth College. He was a physician of much skill
as well as a preacher in the Presbyterian Church.
He was for a time the pastor of a congregation of
that denomination in Tewksbury, Mass.. and dur-
ing the War of 1812 was loyal to the United
States Government, while many of his parishioners
were against the Government in that struggle. In
consequence of such a difference of opinion the
Rev. Mr. Barton severed his connection with that
church, and in 1817, with his family he emigrated
to Tennessee, the entire journey being made with
teams. He located in Overton County, and there
practiced medicine and expounded the Gospel to
his fellow-pioneers. He was very much opposed
to the institution of slavery, and his daily prayer was
that he might once more be in a free state. In 1 828,
accompanied by his wife, sons and sons-in-law
with their wives, he set forth on the journey to
Illinois, his dearest wish about to be gratified, the
removal hither being made with several teams, the
stock being driven on before. The aged patriarch
and his little flock traversed the States of Tennes-
see and Kentucky, crossed the Ohio River, and at
last he stood on the borders of the promised land.
His fervent prayers were answered, and like Moses
his life was destined to end after the welcome sight.
He arose after a night's rest in apparent good
health, went to the door to view the surrounding
country, and on his return remarked to his wife
that it was a "pleasant morning", and then he fell
to the floor and expired. He was laid to rest on
the banks of the Ohio, and the remainder of the
family proceeded sadly to their destination in
Jacksonville, and there located among its earliest
pioneers.

The father of our subject was a young man
when he left his early home in Massachusetts and
accompanied his parents to Tennessee. He had
left his heart behind him, however, and in 1818 he
journeyed on horseback to New York, where his
promised bride lived, and was married in Oneida
Count}', that State, Immediately after that event

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

211

he and his young wife started on their wedding
tour in a light wagon, drawn by one horse, and
thus traveled to Tennessee, where they began their
wedded life, living there till 1827, v>hen ns before
related they came to Illinois. At the time the
family located in .Jacksonville, it was but a small
hamlet, with about fifteen houses, a part of them
built of logs. Mr. Barton was a natural mechanic,
ami before he left his native home in Massa-
chusetts, he had worked at the machinist's trade in
Lowell, Mass., and had assisted in the erection of
some of the first mills built in that State. After
his removal to Morgan County, he resumed his
trade nnd plied it in Jacksonville till 1843. He
then came to Metamora and purchased a home in
town, and established himself at his trade. He
continued to reside here until his death, at which
time a worthy citizen was lost to this community,
one to whom all respect was paid as he had led an
honorable and upright life. The maiden name of his
wife was Clarrissa Barker. She was born in Oneida
County, N. Y., of which her father, Levi Barker, a
native of New England, was one of the early settlers.
Lester Barton, of this sketch, was seven years
old when he came to Illinois with his parents, and
he remembers quite distinctly the incidents of the
journey to Morgan County, and of the subsequent
pioneer life there. He gleaned his education in
the primitive schools of those early days of the set-
tlement of the State. In 1836 he journeyed across
the country from Morgan County to this county
with a team, and found the surrounding country
almost in its original wild state, not many settle-
ments having been made, and a great deal of the
land was for sale by the Government at $1.25 per
acre. After a visit of a few weeks Mr. Barton
returned to his home in Morgan County, where he
remained until 1843, when he made a permanent
settlement in this county, locating on his present
place four miles northeast of Metamora. It was
then a tract of wild prairie land, but by patient
toil and judicious management Mr. Barton has got
it under fine tillage, so that it yields good harvests,
lie has planted beautiful shade, ornamental and
fruit trees; has erected a good frame house and
necessary farm buildings, and lias by various other
improvements greatly increased its value.

Mr. Barton has been twice married. He was
first wedded in 1852 to Miss Mary Stephenson, a
native of Kentucky. But their married life was
not destined to be of a very long duration, as she
died in 1857, after the death of her infant
daughter, Anna. Mr. Barton was married to his
present wife, formerly Miss Elvira K. Dutton, a
native of Vermont, in 1867. Their marriage has
bee i blessed to them by the birth of four children
Mary E., Charles M., Nellie E. and Lester Ed-
ward.

Mr. Barton is of a practical turn of mind, and,
by careful attention to his calling he has acquired
a competence amply sufficient to free him from the
necessity of hard labor, and to fortify his declining
years against want and poverty. Both he, and his
amiable wife are held in kindly regard by the peo-
ple among whom they have lived so man}' years.
They are both religiously inclined, he being of the
Presbyterian faith, while his wife is a member of
the Congregational Church, and they are now asso-
ciated with the Union Church at Metamora.

OSEPH REED has long been numbered
among the leading farmers of this county,
and is one of its early settlers. He is now
engaged in general farming on section 3,
Montgomery Township, where he has made his
home since 1852, covering a period of thirty-seven
years. Previous to that, time he had become a
resident of Illinois and located in Taze well County,
where he remained until the year above mentioned.
His native State is Pennsylvania, his birth having
occurred in Schuylkill County, on the 8th day of
June, 1827. His parents, Lewis and Mary (Myers)
Reed, were also born in the Keystone State and
were descended from ancestry who belonged to
the Pennsylvania Dutch. Five children were born
unto them in Pennsylvania, after which, accom-
panied by their family, they emigrated to the
West, locating near Circleville, Piekaway County,
Chio, during the early days of its history. In that
community the children were reared to manhood
and the father was called to his final rest. He

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

died before he had reached his fiftieth year, and
his loss was sincerely mourned by many warm
friends. His widow was afterwards again married,
her second union being with John Buck. They
later became residents of Fnirfield County, Ohio,
where Mrs. Buck died at the advanced age of
eighty years. Like her husbands, she was a mem-
ber of the Evangelical Association and was a faith-
ful Christian woman.

The subject of this sketch was the third child of
the family. When but a .young lad he removed
with his parents to Pickaway County, Ohio, where
his early life was spent amid play and work. He
was educated in the schools of that county, and
was reared to habits of industry and usefulness
which have been very essential to him in his after-
life. In Pickaway County, he also formed the
acquaintance of Miss Polly Freeze, and their
friendship ripening into a warmer attachment, they
were united in marriage. Mrs. Reed was born in
Nov. 8, 1832, in the county where their wedding
was celebrated and is a sister of Rev. O. W.
Freeze, whose history appears elsewhere in this
work. The family circle of this worthy couple
was completed by the birth of the following
children: Lewis, who married George Ann Hux-
table, and now owns and operates a farm of eighty
acres in Montgomery Township; Jonathan, who
wedded Miss Rosa Gordon, is living on a farm in
Panola Township; William was joined in wedlock
with Viola Kingsolver, and is engaged in the cul-
tivation of a farm in Polk County, Neb.; Lyinan,
who is engaged in agricultural pursuits in Mont-
gomery Township, wedded Miss Lizzie Naffziger;
Emma is the wife of A. Dorwood, a resident farm-
er of the same township; Ida became the wife of
Frank Dorwood, a farmer of Cruger Township;
Alvin and Rosa, the two youngest, are at home.
Death has never entered the home of this family;
all are yet living, and the children have become
respected men and women who do honor to then-
parents.

Mr. and Mrs. Reed began their married life in
Pickaway County, whence they came to Illinois,
and. as before stnte>l, made their home in Tazewell
County until becoming residents of this commu-
nity. Throughout his business career Mr. Reed

has followed the occupation of farming, and by
the united efforts of himself and wife has secured
a comfortable competency. His landed possessions
at one time aggregated 400 acres, but as his chil-
dren left the parental roof he gave to them por-
tions of that amount. The farm upon which he
now resides is one of the best in the county, its
well tilled fields, good buildings and high grades
of stock indicating the owner to be a practical and
progressive farmer. His residence is a substantial
and commodious dwelling, shaded by beautiful
trees, and the other improvements are in keeping
with the pleasant home. Mr. Reed is truly a self-
made man, for his success is due entirely to his
own efforts. He has steadily worked his way up-
ward until he is now numbered among the well -to-
do farmers of the community, and his family are
surrounded with all the com forts of life. In pub-
lic life he manifests a warm interest and has aided
in the progress and development of the county for
almost forty 3 r ears. He is a liberal supporter of all
worthy enterprises, and is found in the front ranks
of social, moral and educational interests. In poli-
tics, he is a stanch supporter of the Republican
party, and both Mr. and Mrs. Reed are members
of the United Brethren Church, in which he holds
the office of Trustee.

RANCIS M. NASH, proprietor of the
Eureka Creamery, is conducting a rapidly
increasing business of which he has been
proprietor since the fall of 1887, when he pur-
chased the present plant and has proven himself
well adapted to the requirements of the industry.
This creamery averages about 300 pounds of butter
per day, which is shipped mostly to Peoria and
Chicago. Thiee teams and three men are employed
in and around the factory, the proprietor of which
has fully established himself in the confidence of
his community by his good qualities as a man and
a citizen.

Mr. Nash was born in McHenry County, this
State. May 26. 1861. and was the fourth in a fam-
ily of seven children, the offspring of Sidney and

RESIDENCE OF CHRISTIAN MILLER, SEC. 31. PALESTINE TOWNS HI P.

RESIDENCE OF SAMUEL STITT, SEC.U.PALESTINETQYYNSHIP.

; ! ;r

* te ^SsvA\

RESIDENCE OF CHRIS ENGELjSEC.3. PANOLA TOWNSHIP.

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

213

Caroline (Carpenter) Nash, who are now residents
of McIIenry County. He was reared to manhood
in his native county, becoming fnmiliar with farm
pursuits at the parental homestead and acquiring
his education in the common school. He lived in
MeHenry County until the spring. of 1884, then
started out for himself, going first to Wisconsin
and employing himself at the creamery business the
following summer. In the fall of that year, coming
to Eureka he entered the employ of Eyeman &
McG uire, proprietors of the Eureka Creamery and
remained with them as the employe of Harry
Chamberlain until the fall of 1887. He had by
this time gained a good knowledge of the business
and felt himself equal to the task of prosecuting it
on bis own account, and accordingly made the ex-
periment with the results already indicated.

Mr. Nash went into Wisconsin for his bride, be-
ing married in Sharon, that State, Dec. 27, 1882,
to Miss Julia Mosher. This lady was born in
Mcllenry County, 111., Nov. 3, 1860, and is the
daughter of William and Caroline Mosher, the
father living in MeHenry County. The mother is
deceased. Of this union there has been born
one child, a son, Fred A. The little family occu-
pies a snug dwelling in the east part of town, con-
venient to the business of Mr. Nash, to which he
gives the greater part of his time and attention.
He meddles very little with political affairs but
upon occasions of general elections gives his sup-
port to the Republican party.

AMUEL MUNDELL. It gives us great
pleasure to insert in this BIOGRAPHICAL AL-
BUM, a sketch of the life of this gentleman,
who, as an early pioneer of Woodford
County, has been associated with its growth and
material prosperity many years. He is extensively
engaged in agricultural pursuits, and has a large
tract of land on sections 28 and 29, Cazenovia
Township, which he has develeped into a fine farm,
as Highly cultivated and as well improved as any
in this part of Illinois.

Our subject was born in Greene County, Whitely

Township, Pa., Jan. 21,1815. His father, James
Mundell, was born in the same township, while his
grandfather, Abner Mundell, was born not far
away on Little Whitely Creek. His father, John
Mundell, was a native of Wales, and came to
America with his father, who located in Pennsyl-
vania in colonial times, taking up a large tract of
land on Little Whitely Creek. After building a
cabin he left his son John to look after his place,
and started on the return voyage to Wales for the
purpose of bringing the rest of his family to
America, and neither he nor any oilier member of
the family was ever heard from again by the son,
left a stranger in a strange land. He came into
possession of his father's land, improved it into a
good farm, reaTed a family thereon, and there
passed away at a ripe old age. The grandfather of
our subject was bred to agricultural pursuits on
that old homestead and. after marriage, removed
to Big. Whitely, and bought a hundred acres of
land in Whitely Township. He had previously
learned the trades of a blacksmith and wheelwright,
and pursued them, making among other things a
great many spinning wheels and reels. He spent
his last years on his home farm in Whitely Town-
ship. The father of our subject was there reared
and married. He learned the trade of a cooper and
followed that in Pennsylvania till 1819, when he
moved to Ohio County, Va., where he established
himself at the same trade. In 1827 he removed to
Wayne County, Ind.. the .removal being made with a
three-horse team, and bought a tract of timber land
four miles from the village of Milton. There was
a log cabin on the place into which he and his
family put their household goods, and in that hum-
ble abode he made his home the few remaining
months of his life, which closed in August, 1828,
thus ending a useful, industrious career in life's
prime. The maiden name of his wife was Esther
Jones, and she was the daughter of Morgan and
Mary Jones, and spent her last years in Caze-
novia Township. Her father was a native of Dela-
ware. He removed to West Virginia, and there
bought up large tracts of land in the time when the
claims were marked by blazed trees. He secured a
patent from the government, and erecting a sawmill
in Ohio County, cleared some of his land and en-

214

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

gaged in the manufacture of lumber. He also
bought about 400 acres of land in Pennsylvania,
and removing to it, passed the remainder of his life
there. The mother of our subject inherited one
hundred and twenty-seven acres of land from her
father's estate in Virginia, and traded it for eighty
acres in Indiana. In 1829, the year following the
sad death of the father, the family removed to
Illinois, traveling to their destination in Vermilion
County with a team. In 1835 they came to this
county, and here the mother entered 160 acres of
government land on section 29, Cazenovia Town-
ship. They found this part of the State in a very
wild, sparsely inhabited condition, with deer and
plenty of game roaming over the broad prairies or
through the timber. There was but one gun in the
family and the boys used to take turns in hunting
game, thus keeping the larder well supplied with
savorj 1 venison, ond occasionally selling a deer.
When they first located here the nearest postofflce
was at Crow Meadow, ten miles distant, in Marsh-
all County, and Lacon and Peoria were the nearest
markets for years. There were eight children born
to the parents of our subject Samuel, Abner,
Mar}', Simeon, Jane, Sarah, Eleanor, James.

Samuel, our subject was the eldest, and on him
devolved the management of the farm to a con-
siderable extent, and he was of great assistance to
his mother in keeping the family together, and in
making the most of their limited circumstances.
He and his brothers farmed together, and they had
various ways of earning money, one being to split
rails for a dollar a hundred. Samuel was four
years old when his parents left the place of his
birth and took up their abode in Virginia, and he
wns sixteen years old when he accompanied them
to Vermilion County, this State, they being
amongst the first settlers there. In August he came
with his mother, brothers and sisters to that part
of Tazewell County now included in Woodford
County, and selected a location in Cazenovia Town-
ship, as before mentioned, and in the fall the family
took up their permanent abode here. Our subject
rented a cabin and a piece of land of Morgan Buck-
ingham for four years, it being cleared and ready
for cultivation, and during that time he erected a
hewed log house on his mother's place. He con-

tinued to make his home with his mother until he
was married, when he established one of his own.
He had previously bought 160 acres of land on
sections 28 and 29, and had broken forty acres of
land and built a substantial frame house. He has
ever since made his dwelling on that homestead,
and has from time to time invested his money in
more land, till he now has nearly 700 acres of choice
land under admirable tillage and capable of yield-
ing large crops, and well supplied with the neces-
sary buildings and all the appurtenances of n good
farm. By judicious management he derives a hand-
some yearly income from its cultivation and from
the fine stock that he raises.

Mr. Mundell was married Dec. 19, 1844, to Ruth
Babb, who was born in Perry County, Ohio, and
was a daughter of Joseph and Eleanor Babb. Three
children blessed their pleasant married life: James,
a resident of Cazenovia, who married Amelia
Rogers, by whom he has had three children;
Esther and Joseph. Mrs. Mundell departed this
life June 1, 1854. while yet a young woman, leav-
ing many warm friends to mourn the loss of one
who possessed many excellent qualities of head
and heart. Mr. Mundell was married to his pres-
ent wife in 1860. Her maiden name was Maria
Babb and she was the youngest sister of the first
Mrs. Mundell. She has been twice married, her
first husband being a Mr. Foster and she has one
son by that marriage, Joseph Foster. She is a
truly estimable woman, looks carefully after the
wants of her household, and makes home comforta-
ble and cozy.

For fifty-four years Mr. Mundell has been a
resident of Woodford County, coining here in the
prime and vigor of early manhood and casting in
his lot with the pioneers that had preceded him,
and during that long period of time he has gained
and retained the honor and esteem of his fellow-
citizens by his straightforward, manly course in all
the affairs of life, and in the various departments
th'it lie has been called on to fill,' as son, husband,
father, neighbor, citizen. His record shows him
to possess in a full degree those characteristics that
go to make a man successful in whatever calling he
is engaged, or he would not have attained his pres-
ent prosperity. Politically, he is in full sympathy

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

215

with the Democrats, and as an intelligent citizen
takes a deep interest in the welfare of his country.
Religiously, both he and his wife are devoted mem-
bers of the Baptist Church, he having connected
with that denomination forty years.

AMUEL MUNDELL, JR., a native-born
citizen of Woodford County, is extensively
connected with its farming interests, and
under his excellent management the fine
homestead on sections 2 and 3, Metamora Town-
ship, that formerly belonged to his father, the late
Abner Mundell, is kept up to the same high stand-
ard that it had attained while it was in possession
of the latter. There is a handsome and commo-
dious residence on the place, with substantial out-
buildings, and all its appointments are first-class.
The father was a well-known pioneer of Woodforrt
County, one of its prominent farmers in his day.
and he was intimately associated with its public
life.

Our subject was born in Partridge Township,
this county, Oct. 21, 1858, and comes of sterling
stock, numbering among his ancestors some of the
early settlers of Pennsylvania and Ohio. His pa-
ternal progenitors, of whom quite a long line is
mentioned in his genealogical history, originated
in Wales. The great-great-great-grandfather of our
subject came to America from that country with
his son John in colonial times, and located in Greene
County, Pa., among its earliest pioneers. The
father secured a patent to a large tract of land on
Little Whitely Creek, and after building a* rude
cabin in the primeval forests that covered his claim,
and leaving his son in charge of the property, he
set out on his return to Wales with the intention
of coming back again with the remaining members
of his family, and founding a new home on Ameri-
can soil. The son waited his return in vain, never
after hearing from him or any other member of
the family left in the old home among the hills of
Walos. He improved the land into a good farm
whereon he passed the remainder of his life. His son
Abner, great-grandfather of .our subject, was born

and reared on the old homestead on Little Whitely
Creek, and in turn reared a family, of whom
his son James was the grandfather of our subject.
The great-grandfather of our subject learned the
trade of a blacksmith, and also that of a wheelwright
and buying 100 acres of land in Wbitely Town-
ship, passed his last years in the home he built
thereon. The grandfather of our subject learned the
trade of a cooper and worked at it many years. In
1819 he moved to Ohio County, W. Va., and buy-
ing land there, built a log house in which his fam-
ily made their home. In 1827 he traded that place
fora tract of timber land, with a few acres cleared,
in Wayne County, Ind., and went there with his
family, the removal being made with a three-horse
team, and the household goods were taken in the
wagon. In a few months after his settlement in
his new home he was taken sick with what proved
to be a mortal illness, and in a few weeks his fam-
i\y was left without his protection. He was the
father of eight children Samuel, Abner, Mary,
Simeon, Jane, Sarah, Eleanor, James. In 1831 the
family moved to Illinois with teams, and after
spending four years in Vermilion County, came, to
Woodford County, and located in Cazenovia Town-
ship. The grandmother of our subject, whose maiden
name was Esther Jones, a daughter of Morgan and
Mary Jones, spent her last years with her children
in that township.

Abner Mundell, the father of our subject, was
born in Whitely Township. Pa., Oct. 19, 1816, and
he was a stalwart youth of nineteen years when he
came to Woodford County with his mother in 1835.
At that time the country was sparsely settled, deer,
wolves and wild turkeys were plentiful, and an
abundance of game enriched the larder of the pio-
neer settlers. He purchased a tract of timber land,
and after building a log house, commenced to de-
velop a farm. There were no railways in the
country then, and Chicago, although a small place,
was the principal market for some years, and he
used to take his grain thither with teams, and on
the return trip would bring home the family sup-
plies. He cleared up quite a tract of land, and
lived on it till 1862. when he sold it and bought
320 acres of land on sections 2 and 3 Metamora
Township. A part of the land only was improved,

216

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

and a small frame house stood on the place. In
the years of toil that followed he placed his land
under admirable cultivation, erected a nice set of
frame buildings, including a commodious frame
house and a large barn with a stone basement. He
continued to be an honored resident here uptil his
death, which occurred Nov. 6, 1887. He was a man
of more than ordinary intelligence, with a well bal-
anced mind, and beiug well read, with a remarkable
memory, he was a very interesting conversational-
ist. Such a man was looked up to as a wise coun- i
selor, and he was influential in public affairs. For
several terms he was a member of the County
Board of Supervisors, and for two years served as
Associate Justice of the county. The maiden name
of his wife, mother of our subject, was Maria Cling-
man, and she was a native of Scioto or Ross County,
Ohio, born March 12, 1827, and now residing in
Pasadena, Cal. Her father, John M. Clingunan,
was born in Northumberland County, Pa., a son of
John Clingman, so far as known born in Pennsyl-
vania, either of German parentage or ancestry.
He moved from the Keystone State to Ohio, and
was an early settler of both Ross and Scioto coun-
ties. There he carried on his occupation as a farmer,
spending his last years in Ohio. The maternal
grandfather of our subject was but a boy when his
parents moved to the Buckeye State, and there he
was reared and married and continued to reside till
1835, when he came to Illinois, and locating in
Woodford County, was one of the first settlers of
Partridge Township. The removal from Ohio
was made with an ox team, and the family cooked
and camped by the way. Mr. Clingman bought a
tract of land which he improved, and on which he
made his home for a few years before his death.
He spent his last days in retirement at Cazenovia.
When he first came here deer and other wild game
were plenty, and as he had been used to hunting
in Ohio, he enjoyed the pleasures of the chase here,
and was one of the most expert hunters of his day.
The maiden name of his wife, grandmother of our
subject, was Margaret Levis. She was born in
Northumberland County. Pa., and closed her life in
Cazeuovia.

There were ten children born to the parents of
our subject, namely: James, John, Eli, Simeon,

Abner, Washington, Margaret J., Samuel, William
I., Jesse G. James died when eighteen months old.
John has a farm in Metamora Township and is en-
gaged in the mercantile business in Cazenovia.
Simeon was born June 27, 1849, and was drowned in
the Illinois River in August, 1870. Abner died when
thirteen years old. Washington lives in Pasadena,
Cal. Margaret married Stephen Smith of McLean
County. William lives in San Diego, Cal., and
Jesse in Pasedena, that State.

Samuel, the subject of this biographical review,
was a child of three years when his parents came
to this township, and he has ever since made his
home on the homestead, which is now under his
management. He received a substantial education
in the public schools, and a thorough training in
agriculture, so that he is a skilled and practical
farmer, as is denoted by the appearance of his fine
farm and its well tilled fields.

Mr. Mundell and Miss Mandy Benjamin were
united in marriage in 1886, and in her he has found
a true wife, who is devoted to his interests. She
is also a native of Woodford County, and a daugh-
ter of Foster Benjamin who resides in Cazenovia
Township.

In his life career Mr. Mundell has displayed wis-
dom, shrewdness and thrift in the management of
his affairs, and is classed among the most capable
representatives of his vocation in Metamora Town-
ship. He is well thought of in this community by
the people who have known him as boy and man
these many years, and in his dealings with his
neighbors he is always kind and considerate.

EV1 P. MORSE. Metamora Township pos-
sesses no more worthy or highly respected
citizen than this gentleman. The son of an
honored pioneer of Woodford County, he now owns
and is successfully managing the fine old homestead
that his father developed from the wild prairies in
the early days of the settlement of this part of the
county. The subject of this biographical review
was born in the town of Rochester, Windsor Co.,
Vt., April 7, 1821. His father, Capt. Parker

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

217

Morse, was a native of Massachusetts, born in the
town of Chester July 12, 1774. His father, who
hore the same name, was likewise a native of the
old Bay State, and was a farmer, and a patriotic
soldier in the Revolution. He was an early settler
of Chester, where he passed his last years. The
maiden name of his wife was Love Knowles. The
father of our subject went to Antrim, N. H., when
a young man, and while a resident there, was mar-
vied to Miss Jane Langdon. In 1815 he settled in
the town of Rochester, Vt., and buying a tract of
improved land there, was engaged in farming it
till 1835. In that year he sold his farm among the
Vermont bills, and coming with his family to Illi-
nois, located in that part of Ta/ewell County, now
known as Woodford County. The removal hither
was made with teams, and a part of the household
goods were brought along. They came by the way
of Canada and were six weeks on the road to Chi-
cago. Joseph T., a brother of our subject, had
come here the year before, and had entered a tract
of land in what is now Metamora Township. But
there being no buildings on the land the family
moved into a vacant log cabin at. Low Point, and
the father at once commenced the erection of a
frame house on his land. It was the first house
built on the open prairie in this section of the coun-
try, and its inmates were noted for their generous
hospitality, the latch string always being out, and
friend or stranger who pulled it and lifted the latch,
always found a warm welcome. At that time and
for several years after, deer, wolves, wild turkeys
nnd all sorts of game were plenty. There were no
free schools here at the time, and in 1836 Mr.
Morse, the Rev. James Owen, and Thomas Jones
interested themselves in securing educational priv-
ileges for their children such as they themselves
had enjoyed in their far off New England homes,
and organizing a district, Mr. Morse's daughter,
Love K., was employed to instruct the children of
the pioneers who were gathered together in one
room of a private house at Low Point, the district
embracing a large territory. She also taught a part
of the term at the timber two miles west of Low
Point, and when she had completed the term her
brother Joseph took the necessary papers and car-
ried them to Springfield to draw the mone_y. The

State Treasurer said that he did not know that he
had the right to pay out money for district
schools, or for any other educational institutions
besides colleges and academies. But upon consul-
tation with others he paid the money without fur-
ther demur. This was, so far as known, the first
free school ever taught in Illinois. In politics, the
father was in his younger days a Whig, and he af-
terwards became an ardent Abolitionist, and his
home was one of the stations in the underground
railroad by which many poor slaves found their
way to freedom in Canada. He was one of the
leading members of the Congregational Church,
and being one of the earliest of that denomination
to settle here, meetings for religious service were
held in his house, and he was one of the Deacons
of the church for many years. He was a man of
marked decision of character, and of an unselfish,
self-sacrificing disposition, and freely used his
means to help any worthy cause along. By the un-
swerving integrity of an upright life he proved the
worth of his religion. His life was prolonged far
beyond the Scriptural allotment, his death occurr-
ing at the old homestead that he had redeemed from
the prairies in 1 862, at the advanced age of eighty-
eight years. The mother of our subject was horn
in Beverly, Mass., and her father was a sea captain,
and commanded a vessel that was lost on one of
its voyages about the time of the birth of his daugh-
ter. Her mother married a second time, a man by
the name of Starr itt, and removed to New Hamp-
shire, and settled in Francistown. The mother of
our subject died on the home farm Dec. 10, 1853,
aged seventy-four years and two months. Eight
of the children born of her marriage were reared to
maturity, namely Elizabeth K., Mark, Parker,
Love K., Jane, Joseph T., John M., Levi P., but
only the two younger ones are now living.

He of whom we write was fourteen years old
when his parents brought him to this county. He
drove a two horse team the entire distance from
Vermont, and slept in the wagon every night. Chi-
cago was then a small, insignificant place, with but
little prospect of attaining its present size and im-
portance as the second city in the Union. There
were no railways in Illinois for some years after
that, and consequently the markets were not very

216

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

accessible, and for two seasons the wheat crop had
to be drawn to Chicago 125 miles distant, the
round trip consuming seven days, and our subject
used when he went on the journey to take provi-
sions with him and camp on the way at noon and
night. He was never separated from his parents
till their death, making his home with them even
after his marriage, and he now owns the old home-
stead of 160 acres. It is an attractive place, with
neat buildings, well-cultivated fields, and all the
necessary appurtenances for carrying on fanning in
the proper manner.

Mr. Morse and Miss Mary A. Parminter were
married Oct. 16, 1845, and they have six children
living to bless their declining years Joel R., Eliza
It., John H., Milo M., Leland E., Henry M. Joel
R. married Mabel Whitmire, and they have one
child, Hazel L. Mrs. Morse was born in Devon-
shire, England, June 24, 1823. Her father, John
R. Parminter,, was also a native of that shire, a
son of James Parminter, likewise of English birth,
who is supposed to have spent his entire life in
Devonshire. Mrs. Morse's father was married in
Devonshire, and became a practical gardener,
following that vocation till 1845, when he came to
America with his family, and located in Metamora
Township, where he engaged in farming and spent
the remainder of his life. The maiden name of his
wife was Nancy Stribling, and she was a native of
Devonshire. Her father, John Stribling, was born
in the same shire, and there carried on the occupa-
tion of farming after he arrived at years of discretion
till his decease. Mrs. Morse's mother died at the
home of her son in this township.

During a residence here of more than half a cen-
tury Mr. Morse has displayed in every department
of life, as a husband and father, as a neighbor and
citizen, the same upright, straight-forward manner,
and has led such a life as elevates the citizenship of
a community. He is ever found on the side of the
right on all the great moral questions that agitate
the public mind, and in ante-bellum times, like his
father he was a pronounced Abolitionist, and as an
agent of the underground railway he befriended
many a poor, grateful slave, and aided him in get-
ting from his father's home to stations beyond, and
so on to liberty in Canada. He cast his first vote

for James C. lUirney, and on the formation of the
Republican part} 7 he joined its ranks, and became
an enthusiastic supporter of its policy. Now he is
as strong an advocate of the Prohibition party. Re-
ligiously, he and his good wife are members of the
Congregational Church, and have cheerfully cast in
their lot with the members of the Union Church at
Metamora.

yiLLIAM BILLINGER, who is engaged in
general farming on section 3, Palestine
Township, was born in Pittsburg, Pa., on
the 1st day of April, 1819, during a temporary so-
journ of his parents in that city. On the paternal
side, he is of Irish descent, and on the maternal
side is descended from an old New England familj-.
His father, also named William, was a native of
Ireland, but in early manhood bade good-by to his
native land and emigrated to America. He settled
in New England, where he worked at his trade of a
mechanic, which he had learned in the old country.
He followed that business for some time, and while
there residing, became acquainted with and wedded
Miss Mary Smith, whose family was of New Eng-
land origin. They began their domestic life in
New Jersey, where their marriage was celebrated,
and while there residing two children were born
unto them. The parents then resolved to make
Ohio their future home and started for that State,
but stopped fora time in Pittsburg, Pa., where the
the birth of our subject occurred. When he was
but ten days old the father was accidently drowned
in the Ohio River at that city, and he was thus de-
prived of all paternal care and watchfulness. Be-
ing joined by a company of relatives, the mother
with her three little children, later continued her
journey to Ohio, locating in Cincinnati, where she
resided for a few years. The family then became
residents of Warren County, and thence re-
moved to Preble County, where our subject was
educated. He was reared to farm life and attained
his majority while residing in Preble County. In
1841, he was joined in wedlock with Mrs. Sarah A.

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

219

(McManus) Brower, a native of Butler County.
Ohio, born Oct. 1, 1819.

The parents of Mrs. Billinger were J. C. and
Catherine (Miley) McManus, the former of Scotch-
Irish descent, the latter of Holland origin. Their
marriage took place in Pennsylvania, but for a
number of years they resided in Butler County,
Ohio, and later removed to Preble County. Mr.
McManus was an attorney, and during the greater
part of his life actively engaged in practice, but
during his lateryears he abandoned that profession
and turned his attention to farming. He died at
the age of sixty-six years, and his wife departed
this life at the advanced age of ninety years. Both
were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church,
and their consistent lives won them many friends.
Mrs. Billinger was a meie child when her parents
removed to Preble County. Her early life was
there passed and on attaining to womanhood she
became the wife of Daniel Brower, who was acci-
dently killed about six months later.

The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Billinger was
celebrated on Nov. 7, 1841, after which they began
their domestic life in Preble County, where the3'
made their home until 1857, when they started for
the unsettled prairies of Illinois. They traveled
over the unbroken country in a covered wagon,
camping out at night, and at length reached Mc-_
Lean County, where they located. Mr. Billinger
engaged in fanning in White Oak Township until
his removal to Woodford County, where he has
since made his home. He is now the owner of a
fine farm of eighty acres on section 3, Palestine
Township, where he has made his home since his
arrival. His land is all under cultivation, and upon
the farm ma}' be found all the necessary improve-
ments. Its owner is a man of good business
ability, and under his able management his land
has brought a rich return for the care and labor
which he bestows upon it. His success is due en-
tirely to his own efforts of industry, perseverance,
and enterprise, assisted by his wife, and is certainly
well-merited.

Of the union of Mr. and Mrs. Billinger. ten chil-
dren have been born, two of whom are now de-
ceased (Jonevera and one who died in infancy.
Those yet living are, John C., who first married

Eliza Miller, and after her death was again married,
and now living in Wichita, Kan. ; Francis L. married
Candace Yerion, and is now engaged in farming in
Phelps County, Neb.; S. M., who wedded Miss
Sarah Bowman, is a resident farmer of Palestine
Township; Sarah A., is one of the able and efficient
teachers of Phelps County, Neb.; Laura is the wife
of Thomas S. Ellis, whose sketch appears on another
page of this work; Eva A. is still at home; Julia C.
is the wife of Frank C. Newton, a farmer residing in
Blue Springs, Neb. ; Emma B., a teacher of recog-
nized abilitv, still makes her home with her
parents.

Mr. and Mrs. Billinger attend the Presbyterian
Church, of which body the lady is a member. They
have reared their children to habits of industry
and honesty, and all are now useful men and wo-
men in the various communities where they reside.
In political sentiment Mr. Billinger is a Democrat,
and has held various township offices of trust. As
a citizen, he is public spirited and progressive.
and is held in high esteem by all who know him.

^,ALTER C. RAMSEY, one of the leading
and enterprising young farmers of Wood-
ford County, residing on section 15, Mont-
gomery Township, has passed his entire life on the
farm where he still makes his home. He was born
on the 5th day of February, 1852, and is the only
son of James and Ann (Harding) Ramsey, promi-
nent citizens of this community. His father is
numbered among the honored pioneers of the
county, and is represented on another page of this
volume.

Our subject was reared to manhood on the old
homestead, and received a liberal education. He
pursued the rudimentary studies in the schools of
the neighborhood, and completed his school life bv
a two years' course in Eureka College. On attain-
ing his majority he left the parental roof to make
his own way in the world, and in 1875 led to the
marriage altar Miss Irene Osburn, the wedding
taking place in Tazewell County. Mrs. Ramsey,
who is a refined and accomplished lady, was born

220

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

in Deer Creek Township, Tazewell County, in 1855,
and is a daughter of David and Jane Osburn, lead-
ing citizens of the community in which they make
their home. Her father is an extensive farmer,
and is numbered among the early settlers of Taze-
well County, he having entered the land which con-
stitutes his homestead from the government. An
interesting family of three children have been born
of the union of Mr. and Mrs. Ramsey, and are
bright, intelligent little ones, of whom the parents
are justlv proud. They are named respectively
Anna Maria, Emmor and Ernest Lester.

Mr. Ramsey has been very successful in his busi-
ness career, and is numbered among the prosperous
farmers of Woodford County. He owns 180 acres
of valuable land, and in addition operates a large
farm of 300 acres. He is also engaged quite ex-
tensively in the breeding of fine blooded stock, and
has done much toward introducing a better grade
of cattle into the county. He possesses thrift and
enterprise, and if health and life are spared him,
will no doubt become a wealthy farmer. In public
affairs he also takes great interest, and is ever ready
to aid in the advancement of those enterprises
which are calculated to promote the general wel-
fare. He is an intelligent citizen, well informed
on all the leading questions of the day, and in
politics is a stalwart advocate of Republican
principles, having supported that great national or-
ganization, the Republican party, since attaining his
majority. He and his estimable wife have man3'
warm friends throughout the community, are
highly respected by all who know them, and are
ranked among the best citizens.

OSEPH BELSLY a prominent young farmer,
occupies one of the finest farms in Worth
Township,which has been in the Belsly family
for many years, having been reclaimed
by the grandfather of our subject, one of the ear-
liest settlers of the county. Our subject was born
in Deer Creek Township, Tazewell Co., 111., Dec. 3,
1861. His father, Christian Belsly, was born in
Partridge Township, Woodford County, in June,

1836. His father, Joseph Belsly, was a native of
France, born at Hof Hellecourt, May 8, 1812. He
came to America when a young man, and making
his way to Ohio found employment at various
kinds of work, remaining there two years and then
journej'ing farther westward till he arrived in that
part of Tazewell now included in Woodford County,
then a wild, desolate, sparsely settled region. He
made claim to a tract of goverment land on Pnrt-
ridge Creek, and after residing there for a time, sold,
and removed to the uplands of Worth Township,
where he purchased a tract of wild land, improved a
large farm, and made his home till his death, Dec. 24,
1872. When he . settled here the greater part of
Illinois was uninhabited, and, in fact, unsurveyed,
and later was sold by the Government for $1.25 an
acre. The locality where Peoria now stands was
known as Ft. Clark, there being but a few log
houses there. Over the broad prairies and through
the timber, deer, wolves and other kinds of game
roamed at will, lie lived to see this section of the
country well settled and wealthy, and did much
toward bringing about the great change. He came
here poor, but at the time of his death was one of
the richest farmers in the 00111113-. His remains lie
buried in the family cemetery on the home farm,
and he will ever be cherished in memory as one of
the noblest pioneers of the Prairie State.

The father of the subject of this sketch was an
only child. He resided with his parents till his mar-
riage, and then lived in Marshall County two years.
Following that he resided one year in Partridge
Township, and then removed to Tazewell County,
and purchased a farm in Deer Creek Township,
and has made his home there continuously since. He
has added to his first purchase and now owns a fine
farm of 380 acres of well-improved land with a good
set of frame buildings. The maiden name of the
mother of our subject was Mary Schertz. She was
born in Butler County ,( )hio,her father John Schertz,
a native of Germanj", having spent his last 3'ears in
that count3'. His wife, the grandmother of our
subject, came to Illinois after her husband's death
and spent her last years with her daughter. There
were nine children born to the parents of our sub-
ject, namely: Kate, Joseph, John R., Samuel, Rose,
Maggie, Barbara, Frank and Emma.

RESIDENCE or JOSEPH BELSLY,5Ec.5.WoRTH TOWNSHIP.

RESIDENCE OF E.C.ENGEL,5Ec.33. PARTRIDGETOWNSHIP.

PjRTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

223

He of whom we write was the oldest son of the
.family. He was edivf.ted in the public schools, and
on the homo farm gained a thorough practical
knowledge of farming in all its branches, contin-
uing to live witli his parents till his marriage, when
he located on his grandfather's homestead, which
he now owns and occupies.

He married in 1882, Miss Ida Foster becoming
his wife. She was born in Deer Creek Township,
Tazewell Co., 111., a daughter of Michael and Eliza
Foster, her father a native of Germany and her
mother of Ohio. Mr. and Mr. Belsly have two
children, Harvey and Maurice.

Few of the younger members of the farming
community of Wood ford County have brighter
prospects before them than our subject, as he pos-
sesses in his enterprising spirit, good business hab-
its and straightforward integrity, the elements of
success. He is an enthusiastic Democrat in his pol-
itics, and adheres loyally to his party, firmly be-
lieving that when it is in power, the best interests
of the country are subserved. The gracious young
wife who presides over his charming home is a
member of the United Brethren Church, and in her
daily walk shows herself to be a sincere Christian.

We present elsewhere in this volume a litho-
graphic engraving of the pleasant abode of Mr. and
Mrs. Belsly, which we trust will be their home for
many long and happy years to come.

E~ DWARD C. ENGEL. The young farmers
of Woodford County have in this widi--
awake, practical gentleman, a representative
who, by sheer force of character and wise manage-
ment of his interests, has already placed himself
among the solid, substantial members of the agri-
cultural community of Partridge Township. He is
managing with signal success one of the choicest
farms in this section of the county, beautifully lo-
cated on section 33, where he and his amiable wife
have a very attractive and happy home, represented
elsewhere in this work, with its fair surroundings,
by a fine lithographic engraving.

Our subject was born in Montgomery Township.

this county, Nov. 11, 1858, to Christian and Sus-
anna (Miller) Engel, both natives of Germany, the
father born near Frankfort-on-the-Rhine. He was
reared in his native land, and there learned the
trade of a weaver. When a young man he left
home and friends in the Fatherland and sought his
j fortunes on the wild prairies of the Great West in
i the United States of America. After his arrival
here, having but little means, he worked out by the
day or month in Woodford County until he could
obtain the wherewithal to become independent.
That was in the year 1856, and he afterward in-
vested his earnings in a tract of partly improved
land in McLean County. He now owns two farms
containing between them 1 60 acres, both being un-
der admirable tillage, amply supplied with neat,
substantial buildings, good machinery and every-
thing needful for conducting agriculture profita-
bly. He is an honest, upright man, a hard worker,
and is considered a useful citizen in his commun-
ity, where he is justly held in respect. His wife,
the mother of our subject, departed this life in
j Woodford County in 1861, and her death was a
sad blow to her family, to whom she was devoted.
There were four children born of that marriage, of
whom the following three are living Edward C.,
John H. and Jacob.

The subject of this sketch was very young when
his father settled in Dry Grove Township, McLean
County, where he was reared to man's estate, and
in the public schools gleaned an excellent educa-
lion that has been of service to him in after life.
He lived with his father until he was twenty-two
years old, giving him valuable service in the man-
agement of his farming interests. He then started
out into the world on his own account, and was
employed by the day or month until his marriage,
when lie rented his father's farm for a term of three
years. At the expiration of that time he came to
Woodford County and settled on the farm where
he now resides. There are a good set of conven-
iently arranged frame buildings on it, including a
neat and comfortable dwelling, and everything
about the place is kept in the most orderly manner.
Mr. Engel is a skillful, intelligent farmer, and
brings a clear mind and sound common sense to
bear upon his work. His land is under fine culti-

224

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

vation and yields him large harvests in repayment
for his care and toil, and his stock is of the finest
grades.

In the month of February, 1881, Mr. Engd's
marriage with Miss Katie Belsly took place. She
was born on the farm where she now makes her
home, and is a daughter of the well-known Chris-
tian and Mary Belsly. She is descended from good
pioneer stock. Her father was born in Partridge
Township, of which his father was one of the orig-
inal settlers. The latter was born in Hof Helleconrt,
France, May 8, 1802. He came to America in 1828
and spent the ensuing two years in Ohio. He was
then a poor man, and though the land in Ohio was
chrap at that time, its price was beyond his means,
and in order to secure a home he came to Illinois to
avail himself of the low prices at which the Gov-
ernment was selling land to the frontiersmen. He
located in what is now VVoodford County, this sec-
tion of the country then being on the Western
frontier, and the few white settlements were con-
fined to the growths of forests along the streams.
Deer and other kinds of wild beasts roamed here
freely, and there were scarcely any evidences of
the coming civilization that should transform these
broad, lonely prairies into smiling harvest fields,
where food was to lie raised for the millions on
either side of the globe. Land was for sale by the
Government at $1.25 an acre, and Mr. Belsly
made a claim to a tract lying on the bank of Part-
ridge Creek. After residing there for 'a time he
bought a place on the uplands of Worth Township
and made his home there until his death, which oc-
curred Dec. 24, 1872, when he rounded out a life
that was honorable to himself and had been of
great service to Woodford County, and its memory
is cherished with reverence by his descendants. He
was an intelligent witness of the entire develop-
ment of the county almost from the early days of
its occupancy by the whites, and not only that, but
lie contributed in no small degree to its present
prosperous condition. He accumulated a handsome
property, and at the time of his death was quite
wealthy. His education was limited, but he was a
very intelligent man, possessing good judgment and
untiring energy as a farmer, and stock-raiser, and
had few equals in those respects in the count}'; he

was well posted on the best methods of farming, and
was tl.e first man to raise clover in this part of the
country. He is now sleeping the sleep of the just in
the family cemetery near his old home. Mrs. En-
gel's father was reared and educated in his native
county, and after marriage resided on Crow Creek
in Marshall County, two years. He subsequently
purchased a farm in Deer Creek Township, Taze-
well County, and removing to that part of the
State is still residing there. The maiden name
of Mrs. Engel's mother was Mary Schertz. She
was born in Ohio, and was a daughter of Valentine
Schertz, a native of Germany.

The attractive home of our subject and his wife
is the center of true hospitality, where every guest
is made to feel at ease by the pleasing, frank and
charming welcome of the hostess and by the gen-
ial, friendly, courteous manner of the host. Their
happy wedded life has been blessed to them by the
birth of three children Eva Lou. Frank Delbert
and Ameda Emma.

Mr. Engel is regarded with much favor by the
people who have watched his course since he be-
came a resident of Partridge Township, and he is
considered a valuable acquisition to the citizenship
of this community, making its interests his own
and promoting its material, moral and social wel-
fare as much as is possible. A young man of in-
fluence for good among his associates.

OHARLES J. VAN PELT, station agent of
the Illinois Central Railway at Minonk, is
one of the oldest employes of that com-

panv, having been in their service since March 20,
1 870. He was born in Highland County, Ohio,
Feb. 16, 1834, being a son of Jacob and Agnes
(Johnson) Van Pelt, both natives of Ohio. His
paternal ancestors were originally from Holland,
but have resided in the United States for several
generations, settling in the colonies prior to the
Revolutionary War. In their religions views they
were Quakers. .

Isaac Van Pelt, grandfather of our subject, was
born in Bucks County, Pa. He became a farmer

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

225

and moved to Virginia, thence to Belmont County.
Ohio, where he was among the original settlers, and
as such assisted in clearing away the heavy timber
from the site now occupied by the city of Znnes-
ville. He there spent the remainder of his life,
dying at the venerable age of ninety years. To
him and his wife, whose maiden name was Sarah
Ellis, were born four children, Jacob, Ellis, Mary
and William R. Jacob, father of our subject, was
reared a farmer, and marrying in Highland County,
Ohio, subsequently removed to Illinois and set-
tled near Bloomington, where he engaged in agricul-
tural pursuits until 1865, when he removed to
Normal, where his death occurred at the age of
fifty-nine years. He was a strong anti-slavery man,
and always expressed his views on that subject
very freely. He was a warm supporter of Henry
Clay, and in the latter years of his life voted the
Republican ticket. His wife survived him. They
reared a family of five children, namely : Charles
J.; Isaac N., a resident of Lamar, Mo.; Thomas
and Garratt died in childhood; Rosetta B., wife of
Jason 1). Shipley, of Normal, 111.

The subject of this brief biographical record was
reared on his father's farm and attended the dis-
trict schools, obtaining a substantial education, and
afterward taught school a few terms, and for a
while was employed as a clerk in a store. He came
with the family to Illinois in 1858, and for some
time assisted on the farm. The most important
step in his life was taken three years later when he
took as a life companion a most estimable Inriy
Miss Helen M. Trowbridge. She was born in New
Haven, Conn., a daughter of Isaac Trowbridge, a
sea captain, who, in a shipwreck on the Atlantic
Ocean, lost all of his property. When she was a
small child her parents removed from Connecticut
to Louisiana and settled in Franklin. Several
years later she visited relatives in McLean County,
this State, and at that time formed the acquain-
tance of our subject which afterwards resulted in
a most happy union, their nuptials having been
celebrated Jan. 23, 1861. To them has come one
child, Isaac Newman. After their marriage Mr.
and Mrs. Van Pelt settled in Normal, where he at
first dealt in coal and engaged in teaming. He
identified himself with the best interests of the

place and served for two years as Township Col-
lector. In March, 1870, our subject entered the
employ of the Illinois Central' Railway Company,
as station agent at Normal, and remained there un-
til July '27, 1874, when he came to Minonk to ac-
cept his present position as station agent in this
city.

In all of his duties he has proved faithful and trust-
worthy, winning the entire confidence of the com-
pany by whom he is employed, and his gentlemanly
and courteous manners make him popular among
the patrons of the railway. It is a matter worthy
of recording that during the entire years of his
services with the company, our subject has not lost
one day's time. In politics Mr. Van Pelt is a firm
Republican, but the duties of his present position
prevent his taking any active part in public affairs.
He is a man of good financial abilities, and has
shown excellent judgment in his investments in
real estate. He owns 160 acres of land in Kansas,
eighty acres in Mississippi, and a very pleasant
home in Minonk, where he and his amiable wife de-
light in entertaining their many friends.

RS. MARTHA M. (MORSE) CHEEDLE
is the widow of the late Orin C'heedle, a
former intelligent, prosperous pioneer of
Woodford County, who aided in its de-
velopment by reclaiming and beautifying a good
farm from the wild prairies where now stands Meta-
mora Township. In this attract! ve home that he
built up with the cheerful and able assistance of
his wife, she is living with two of her sons, who
are successfully managing the old homestead on
which they were born and bred.

Mrs. Cheedle is of sterling New England stock,
and is herself a native of that part of the countiy.
She is the daughter of one of Woodford County's
well-known early pioneers who is distinguished in
its history as having erected the first house, on the
present site of Metamora, and he assisted in plat-
ting the town and was appointed its first post-
master. Coming here when a small child in the
very early days of the settlement of the county,

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

Mrs. Cheedle has been a witness of its entire de-
velopment, and she can remember when deer and
wolves used to roam freely across the spot where
the flourishing city of Metamora now stands.

Our subject was born in Rochester, Windsor
Co., Vt., July 9, 1832. Her father, Deacon Parker
Morse, was born in Antrim, N. II., Jan. 6,1803,
and was the son of Capt. Parker and Jane (Lang-
don) Morse, for whose history see sketch of L. P.
Morse. Mrs. Cheedle's father was twelve years old
when his parents removed to Vermont, and there
lie grew up and married, Rosanna Childs becoming
his wife. She was born in Sharon, Vt., and was a
daughter of David and Ruth Childs. Mr. and Mrs.
Morse continued to reside among the hills of Ver-
mont till 1835, when they emigrated with their
family to the distant wilds of Illinois. The}'
started on their long and tedious journey with a
team to Whitehall, Vt., and thence proceeded by
canal to Buffalo, where they embarked on a boat
for a voyage on the lakes to Chicago, and were on
the water eighteen days. From Chicago they drove
with a team to Elk Grove, and spent a few months
there, and in the fall of the .year they pushed on
to that part of Tazewell County now embraced in
Woodford County. Mr. Morse found a vacant
log cabin one mile west of the present site of Mela-
mora, and in that humble abode'he and his family
spent the following winter. In the spring he built
a frame house on the sito of Metamora, which was
the first house ever erected within the present cor-
porate limits of the city. When the town was
platted in the month of June his wife entertained
the surveyors at dinner. At that time the town
was named Hanover, and when the postofflce was !
established Mr. Morse was appointed postmaster.
His wife took a magazine in those days called the
"Mother's Magazine," which was the only periodical
taken in the county at that time. He invested in
lots and continued to live in the village two years,
and at the expiration of that time moved his house
and barn to his land, three miles northeastof town,
and at once entered upon the pioneer work of im-
proving a farm and met with good success in his
attempts, and built up a comfortable home, and
laid up a competence. His useful life was rounded
out in March, 1877, and that of his wife in July,

1880, and they are now peacefully sleeping the last
sleep side by side. He was a man of high standing
in this community, noted for his strict integrity
and moral principles. He was a devout member of
the Congregational Church, was numbered among
its most zealous workers, and assisted materially in
building the church. He was an abolitionist, a true
friend of the poor slaves, and his house was a
station of the underground railroad, and he aided
more than 200 of the poor creatures to obtain their
freedom. Three children were born to him and
his wife, namely; Martha M. (our subject), Joseph
O. and Mary O., twins. Joseph is living on the old
homestead. Mary married Benjamin O'Brien of
Groveland, Tazewell County, where she died Feb.
27, 1889.

Our subject was three years old when her parents
brought her to this county, and here she grew to
womanhood among the pioneer scenes of the early
days of the settlement of this part of the country,
and gained her education in the earliest schools
that were ever taught here. She resided with her
parents till her marriage to Orin Cheedle, which oc-
curred in October, 1858.

Mr. Cheedle was born in Stoekbridge, Windsor
Co., Vt., Sept. 6, 1822. His parents, Timothy and
Mar}' (Snow) Cheedle, were natives of Vermont,
and there spent their entire lives. He received a
sound education in his native state, and was en-
gaged in teaching school there for several years, fol-
lowing that vocation in the summer seasons. He
was twice married. He was first wedded to Miss
Eliza Lincoln, a native of Vermont, their marriage
taking place in 1847. He bought a farm in Meta-
mora Township, but lived on it only a portion of
the time, as he was engaged in teaching school, as
was his wife also, who was a school teacher before
her marriage. His first wife died in 1848, and
he then went back to his old home among the green
hills of Vermont. He lived there for a while and
then returned to Woodford County, and at the
time of his marriage with our subject was located
on his farm, where his family now resides. In the
busy years that followed he improved it greatly,
erected substantial frame buildings, planted an
orchard, and beautified the lawn by setting out
ornamental trees, shrubbery and flowers. This

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

227

pleasant home remained his residence till his un-
timely death Nov. 29, 1872 brought to a close a
life honorable to himself, and such as to cast credit
on the community of which he was a greatly re-
spected and influential citizen. He was a man of
scholarly tastes, bringing a well-trained mind to
bear on his work, and his relations with all about
him were most pleasant and friendly. In his do-
mestic life he was peculiarly happy, und in their
charming home, four sons were born to him and
his wife Joel W., Parker G., Harry L. and Ed-
ward M. Stanton. Joel married Mary E. Kindig.
and resides in Kearney, Neb.; they have two chil
dren, Mary M. and Owen. Parker is engaged in
farming in Buffalo County, Neb.; Harry and Ed-
ward live with their mother and manage the farm.
Mrs. Cheedle is a worthy example of the brave,
self-sacrificing, hard-working women of pioneer
days who walked steadily by the side of father,
husband or brother through all the trials and hard-
ships of life on the frontier, and encouraged and
substantially aided them in their great struggle to
open up and develop the country. All honor to
such women. May their part in building up the
great West receive just recognition from the his-
torian and biographer, and when they have passed
away from the scenes of their life-work, may their
memories be cherished and reverenced equally with
fathers, husbands and brothers.

LEASANT H. BIGGER. For a period of
twenty-seven years Mr. Bigger has been
familiarly known to the people of El Paso
Township, where he is accounted one of
its most prominent and successful farmers and
stock-raisers, owning 320 acres of land, comprising
some of the choicest soil in Woodford County.
His homestead is finely located on section 21, and
in all its appointments indicates the supervision of
a man of more than ordinary intelligence, industry
and enterprise. The land is remarkably fertile and
watered by Wolf Creek, a cool, clear stream, which
seldom fails at any season. Other natural advan-
tages add to the value of the farm, and these have

been enhanced by the thorough cultivation it has
received and its general good management.

The subject of this sketch came with his father
to McLean County, III., in 1836, and has been a
resident of that and Woodford County, since that
time. The face of the country then for miles
around presented an unbroken wilderness, over
which the foot of a white man had seldom passed.
The few settlers who had ventured hither were lo-
cated near the timber, as the prairie was considered
practically worthless.

Our subject first opened his eyes to the light in
Owen County, Ind., July 21, 1H20, and is the son
of James Bigger, a native of Ohio. The paternal
grandfather was John Bigger, who came of Irish
ancestry and is believed to have been born in Vir-
ginia, lie spent his last years in Indiana, dying
when quite aged. James, the father of our subject,
was reared a farmer's boy, and was first married in
Ohio to a Miss Stewart, by whom he had four chil-
dren, all of whom died in Ohio, as did also their
mother.

After the death of his first wife, James Bigger
emigrated to Owen County, Ind., where he was
married to Miss Elizabeth Hart. This lady was the
daughter of Phillip Hart, who settled in that
county at an early day, and laid out the town of
Spencer, near which he spent the latter part of his
life, dying when ripe in years. After the birth of
four children by his second wife, James Bigger
pushed on further westward, and settled in Gridle}'
Township, McLean Co., 111., where he and his wife
spent the remainder of their lives. The father died
in the spring of 1841, when fifty years old. He
fought at the battle of Tippecanoe, and was at one
time Captain of an Indiana company of troops
under Col. Bartholomew, the regiment being com-
manded by Gen. Harrison. Col. Bartholomew and
Capt. Bigger were warm personal friends, and the
Colonel died one year prior to the death of Mr.
Bigger. The latter, as may be supposed, was a
Whig politically, and a warm supporter of Gen.
Harrison for the presidency. His second wife sur-
vived him a number of years, dying in 1863, aged
sixty-six. Both were members in good standing
of the Baptist Church.

Our subject was the eldest of six children three

228

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

sons and three daughters all of whom lived to be
men and women. He remained under the home
roof until reaching man's estate, and assisted in
building the first school-house in the western part
of McLean County, within which later, he pursued
his studies. It was a log structure, with slabs for
seats and desks, with puncheon floor, and the chim-
ney built outside of earth and sticks. The school
was conducted in the winter season alone, all the
children of those times, and especially the boys,
being required to make themselves useful on the
farm during the summer.

Jan. 5, 1840, our subject was united in marriage
with Miss Margaret Bell. This lady was born in
Susquelianna County, Pa., and is the daughter of
parents who were likewise natives of the Keystone
State. They died when she was quite young, and
she came to the West with friends. She became
the mother of two children, and survived her mar-
riage only five years, dying at the early age of
thirty-three, at their home in Gridley Township.
McLean County. Their son James married Miss
Amanda Glimps, and is a resident of Kappa;
Sarah is the wife of Henry Hanken, a hotel pro-
prietor of York, Neb.

Mr. Bigger was a second time married in Mc-
Lean County to Mrs. Sarah (Fuhrman) Scott, who.
who was born in Pennsylvania, Feb. 4, 1833. Her
parents were also natives of that State, whence
they removed to Ohio, where their daughter Sarah,
upon reaching her womanhood, was married to
David Scott. Three children were born of this
union, and Mr Scott died in Ohio. His widow
later came to Illinois, joining her parents, who had
preceded her, and settled in Woodford County.
Of her union with our subject there have been
born seven children: Ida M. is the wife of Adam
Vogt, and they live on a farm in El Paso Town-
ship; Laura remains at home with her parents;
Judson married Miss Miss Mill}' Grinder, and they
live on a farm in El Paso Township; Alice, Martha,
Lott and Rose remain under the parental roof.

Mr. Bigger, politically, votes the straight Repub-
lican ticket, as also do his sons. His property has
been accumulated by downright hard work and good
management, assisted by the counsel and economy
of his estimable wife. They have a pleasant and

attractive home, which is represented in this vol-
ume by a fine lithographic engraving, and within
its pleasant walls is gathered a family of bright, in-
telligent children, held in high esteem by their
neighbors and acquaintances.

P'RED. T. WAITE, senior member of the firm
of.Waite&Son, has been for someyears con-
ducting a prosperous hardware trade at El
Paso, of which he has V>een a resident since 1883.
The house is located on Front Street, and they carry
a well selected assortment of everything in their line
of trade, receiving the patronage of a large portion
of the people of the city. Mr. Waite came to this
county in 1856, and first purchased eighty acres of
land in Panola Township, on its eastern line, where
he founded a home and where he lived until his
removal to El Paso. In connection with farming
he made a speciality of Norman horses and accum-
ulated a comfortable property. He has a good
home in the city, and is recognised as one of its
most enterprising and useful citizens.

The subject of this notice was born in Hartford,
Vt., Aug. 24, 1824. He was orphaned by the
death of both parents when very young, and was
taken into the home of strangers, by whom he was
reared and partly educated, and thus lost nearly
all trace of his family connections. He was
brought up on a farm, but upon reaching his ma-
jority entered Norwich (Vt.) Military Academy,
where he remained three years, but finally aban-
doned the idea of a military life; subsequently he
engaged in teaching during the winter season
while he farmed in summer.

Young Waite saved what he could of his earn-
ings during those years, and finally emigrated lo
Tarrytown, N. Y., where he secured the position
of ticket agent for the Hudson River Railroad.
At that place he was married to Miss Susan Hazen,
who was born in Hartford, Vt., in September,
1825, and was of New England ancestry. She
was reared and educated in her native place, and
for siime years was engaged as a teacher in the
public schools. She possessed rare musical talent,

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

2-2

and was a fine singer, and Mr. Waite also being
fond of music and possessing a good voice, they
spent many pleasant hours together in this recrea-
tion. The happy home circle was invaded by
death and the mother passed away Aug. 12, 1883,
at the age of fifty -eight years. She had been an
active member of the Presbyterian Church, and
was a lady greatly beloved by the entire com-
munity.

By his first wife our subject became the father
of six children, two of whom, Maryetta and Frank
H., are deceased, the former dying when quite
young and the latter when a promising young man
of twenty-two years. He had been educated in
music in the Chicago Musical College, and was a
successful teacher of that art. There was appar-
ently a bright future before him, and his untimely
death was a severe blow to his family. Of the
surviving children, Emma is the wife of Walter Ben-
nett, a prominent attorney of El Paso; Lilly mar-
ried Harry Jessop, who is a dentist by profession,
and they are at present (July, 1889) in Arizona.
Azro H. is the partner of his father, in the hardware
trade, and is still unmarried. He is a capable
young business man, temperate and upright, and
bids fair to make for himself a fine record in the
the business and social circles of his community.
Fred. H., a dentist by profession, is in Phoenix.
Arizona.

The present wife of our subject, to whom he wns
married in Lebanon, N. H., was formerly Mrs. Mel-
vina (Howard) Hazen. She was born in Pomfret,
Vt., in 1835, and is the daughter of Seth and Eliza
(Lamberton) Howard, an old New England family
of the Green Mountain State, who lived on a farm
and there spent their entire lives, the mother pas-
sing away in 1843 and the father surviving until
1882. Mrs. Melvina Waite remained with her fa-
ther after the death of her mother, which occurred
when she was a young girl of fourteen years, and
was first married to Mr. F. S. Hazen. They began
life on a farm in Vermont, and Mr. Hazen died
when forty-eight years old. One son born of this
marriage, Fred A., died at the age of twent3'-one
years. He was possessed of a bright intellect, and
many hopes had been built up by his mother in
connection with his future career. The two sur-

viving children of this marriage are twins, Maude
E. and May B. The former is a .stenographer at
De Kalb, this State, in the employ of the Barb Wire
Company, and the latter remains at home with her
mother.

Mr. Waite has bean an Elder in the Presbyterian
Church for the last five years, while his estimable
wife finds her religious home with the Congrega-
timi.'ilisls. Our subject has held some of the local
offices, and is now Treasurer of the El Paso Agricul-
tural Board, which was organized in 1881, and of
which he is one of the founders. Politically he was
m early life a member of the old Whig party, and
since its abandonment has given his cordial sup-
port to the Republicans.

S. ROBINSON is a fine representative of
the sons of the pioneers of Wood ford
County, who, reared within its limits, have
stepped to the front to take their part in
sustaining and extending its material prosperity,
and making it one of the richest agricultural cen
tres in this section of f .he country. Our subject is
actively and extensively engaged in farming and
stock-raising in Metamora Township, where ho
owns one of the largest and best managed farms in
the locality. The land is under a high state of
cultivation, the improvements are of the best, with
all the appointments of a model farm, including a
neat, roomy set of frame buildings, and all nuucl-
ful machinery, every thing about the place betoken-
ing the presence of a master hand and mind.

Our subject was born in the town of Woodstock,
Champaign Co., Ohio, Nov. 1,1846. In tracing
the family history back, it has been ascertained
that he is a lineal descendant of the learned and
able John Robinson, that pious minister who led
the Pilgrims from England to Holland in 1608,
there to seek the religious freedom denied them in
the mother country. He was educated at the Col-
lege of Corpus Christ!, Cambridge, receiving :i
fellowship there in 1598, which he resigned in 1604.
During that time he had commenced preaching
at Norwich, and in 1608 went with his devoted

230

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

hand of followers to Leydcn, Holland, and in 1609
to Amsterdam. He aided in planning the estab-
lishment of a colony on American soil, and there is
a touching picture given in history, of the good
man kneeling with his little flock of Pilgrims on
the sands and earnestly commending them to the
care of God. and imparting to them wise words of
counsel and hope as they were about to embark on
their perilous voyage to an unknown country,
where they desired to found new homes and secure
the privilege of worshipping their Maker as heart
and conscience dictated. It was the worthy min-
ister's intention to follow with the remainder of
the church, those that had come to America in the
Mayflower, but he was unavoidably detained in
Holland, and his noble, self-sacrificing life was
closed in that country in 1625. His son Isaac
came to America in 1631, and after living in Ply-
mouth, Mass, awhi'e, resided in turn in Scituate,
II. I., Falmouth and Barnscable, Mass., and finally
closed his earthly pilgrimage on the island of Mar-
tha's Vineyard. His son, Peter, was the next in
line, and he located in the town of Scotland, Wind-
ham Co., Conn., about 1723, and there spent his
last years. His son, Peter, came next in order,
and he was born about 1697, and died in the afore-
mentioned town of Scotland. After him came his
son Experience, who spent his entire life in Wind-
ham County, Conn. His son, Elias, was the next in
line of descent. He married Sybil Lillie, daughter
of Nathan Lillie. He was a soldier in the Revolu-
tion, and died Feb. 8, 1805, at an advanced age.
His son, Capt. Elias Robinson, the grandfather of
our subject, was born Nov. 13, 1780, and was
reared to the life of a farmer. He married Fanny
Francis, and removed to Ohio with teams in 1820,
and became a pioneer of Union County, continu-
ing his residence there until death. He received
his title as an officer in the War of 1812.

The father of our subject, George Robinson, was
born in Union County, Ohio, and was reared to a
stalwart manhood in his native State. He remained
a resident of Union and Champaign counties until
1853, and then came to Wood ford County, the
removal being made with teams. He bought a
tract of land in Mctamora Township, only a part
of which had been improved. la the years that

followed he busied himself with the pioneer task
of developing a farm, which he brought to a fine
state of cultivation, and supplied it with substantial
buildings, and otherwise greatly increased its value.
In his death, March 11, 1883, this township lost
one of its most worthy citizens, one who had con-
tributed his quota toward its advancement, and
had always been warmly interested in its welfare.
He was twice married. The maiden name of his
first wife, mother of our subject, was Lorana Smith .
She was born in Woodstock, Champaign Co., Ohio,
and was a daughter of Sylvanus and Thankful
(Kelsey) Smith, natives of Vermont. She closed
her eyes in death in her native State in 1851. The
subject of this sketch was the only child by that
marriage. The father was married a second time
Marcli 16, 1853, Miss Janet Kellogg becoming his
wife. She was born in Lamoille County, Vt., a
daughter of Warren and Jennie (Gray) Kellogg.
She is now living at a venerable age on the old
homestead on section 2.

He of whom this biographical review is written,
was six years old when his parents came to this
county, and he grew to manhood here, and was
given the educational advantages of the public
schools. He remained at home with his parents
until his marriage, when he located on the farm
which he now owns and occupies. It comprises
480 acres of fine, well-improved prairie land, on
which he has erected neat and tasty buildings, and
has adorned the grounds with beautiful shade and
fruit trees. He has his farm well-stocked with
cattle, horses and hogs of good grades, from the
sale of which he derives a good annual income.

In the building up of this pleasant, attractive
home Mr. Robinson has had the cheerful co-opera-
tion of a devoted wife, to whom he was united in
marriage in February, 1878. To them have come
five sons: George W., Francis, Lewis S.. Robert C.,
and Arthur L. Mrs. Robinson is a native of
Metamora Township, and a daughter of Marcellus
and Patience (Fairchilds) Wilson. She was born
in Metamora Township Jan. 31, 1858.

Mr. and Mrs. Robinson are sensible, well-in-
formed people, of high social standing, and they
understand well how, by genial courtesy and
thoughtful attention to their guests, to make their

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

231

pretty home attractive to friends, of whom they
have many, or to strangers who happen to come
beneath its hospitable roof. Mr. Robinson has all
the characteristics that mark a man of strong mind
and manly purpose, and Woodford County posses-
ses no more loyal citizen, one who is at once public-
spirited and open-handed. As an intelligent man
should, he interests himself in politics, and exerts
his influence in favor of the Republican party.

IF^OBERT N. RADFORD, is editor of the
Eureka Journal and is conducting one of
the most interesting and spicy newspapers
in Central Illinois, and evidently lias the
proper idea of the manner in which such an enter-
prise should be managed. He is a terse and forci-
ble writer and possesses those rare social qualities
which have made him a general favorite' in his
community. He gives his undivided time and atten-
tion 'to the Journal which is independent in poli-
tics, and takes an active interest in political affairs,
keeping himself thoroughly posted upon current
events. The Journal has become one of the Jo-
dispensable institutions of Woodford County and is
steadily growing in popularity as well as in a
financial point of view.

The subject of this notice comes of some of the
best blood in the South, being the son of Benjamin
J. and Francis T. (Lawrence) Radford who were
both natives of Virginia, the father born in Cum-
berland County and the mother in Richmond.
When quite young and prior to their marriage, the
parents removed with their respective families to
Christian Country, Ky., where they were married
in 1825. They lived there until 1834, then emi-
grated to Illinois and settled near the present site
of Eureka, which was then known as Walnut Grove,
and to which point they had been preceded only
by a few families. The father followed the peace-
ful pursuits of agriculture and at the same time
interested himself in the general welfare of the
community, being the cncourager of religious and
educational institutions and instrumental in the
establishment of the Christian Church in Eureka.

The parents both died at the old farm, the father
Sept. 12, 1857. and the mother Oct. 18, 1864.

To Benjamin and Frances Radford there were
born four daughters and seven sons, and only six of
the children are living. Four of the sons were in the
Union Army during the Civil War. Two of the
sons met death while fighting for their country.
Two of them lived to return home and are now
living in Eureka. Robert N. was the fifth child of
the family and was born in Christian Count}', Ky,.
Sept. 30, 1833. He was but an infant when his
parents took up their abode in this count}', where
he was reared upon the new farm and remained
there until a youth of eighteen years. For the fol-
lowing three years he was employed as clerk in a
general stove. Then returning home he assumed
charge of the farm from 1858 to 1874, after which
he turned his attention to newspaper work and pur-
chased the Eureka Journal of which he has since
been editor and proprietor.

In 1881 Mr. Radford associated himself in part-
nership with E. J. Davidson, his nephew, and the
firm is familiarly known as Radford <fe Davidson.
In connection with the newspaper is a well-equipped
job ottice, doing a thriving business. The business
talents of Mr. Radford are fully in keeping with
his literary acquirements, and he has placed the
Journal upon a sound basis and in a condition in
which it compares favorably with the other lead-
ing newspapers of this part of the State. He is a
man prompt to meet his obligations, while his
cordial and genial temperament secures him friends
wherever he goes.

Mr. Radford was married in Tazewoll County,
this State, Sept. 25, 1861 to Miss Octavia, daughter
of the late Dr. Samuel Landes of Hickman, Ky.
Mrs. Radford was born in Hopkinsville, Ky., May
25, 1840, and lived only twenty-one months after
her marriage, her death occurring June 27, 1862.
She was a lady of many estimable qualities and a
member in good standing of the Christian Church.

Prior to the division of Olio and Cruger Town-
ships Mr. Radford held the offices of Assessor, Col-
lector. Supervisor and, indeed, about all the offices
within the gift of the people ; and he has ever been
found faithful and efficient in the discharge of the
duties pertaining thereto. He is a man of decided

232

PORTRAIT AD BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

views not easily turned from his convictions, but
one who at all times is credited with the sincerity
of belief which makes him brave in the assertion
of his principles and sufficiently aggressive to bat-
tle for what he believes to be right. He takes a
warm interest in all the enterprises calculated to
benefit Eureka and vicinity and no question which
is at all worthy of discussion, passes unnoticed or
fails to receive the proper space in the columns of
the Journal. Thus its advent is looked for each
week by its patrons with itn interest which is never
allowed to flag, and each year adds materially to its
list of subscribers.

E~ LIJAH R. MARSHALL, a pioneer of Wood-
ford County, though not among the first
comers, was one of the first settlers of Roan-
oke Township, coming here in the prime and vigor
of early manhood, and casting in his lot with the
sturdy, practical farmers who had preceded him,
and has ever since devoted himself to agricultural
pursuits on this rich soil. His patient toil directed
by sound discretion and an energetic spirit, has
been amply rewarded, and he rejoices in the pos-
session of a large, well stocked farm, that is com-
plete in all its appointments, and ranks with the
fine farms for which this section of the country is
noted.

Our subject is a Vermonter by birth, born among
the hills of Sudbury, in Rutland County, Nov. 15,
1826. His father, Thomas Marshall, was born in
Chester, Windsor Co.,Vt., March 13, 1801, a son
of Elijah Marshall, who was born in England Nov. 6,
1766. Ilis father, John Marshall, was born in Eng-
land, Nov. 6, 1716. The maiden name of his wife,
the great-great-grandmother of our subject, was
Marion Horton, and the date of her birth was Nov.
28, 1721. The following is the record of the twelve
children born to them: Joseph, born July 3, 1737;
James, Dec. 14, 1741; Martha, May 14, 1743;
James 2d, Dec, 21, 1744; John, Aug. 29, 1747;
Sarah. Feb. 25, 1749; Mary, April 7, 1752; Re-
becca, Oct. 30, 1754, Isaiah, Jan. 29. 1757; Eliza-
beth, Aug. 5, 1759; Joseph 2d, March 13,1764;

Elijah. Nov. 6, 1766. The grandfather of our
subject removed from his home near Salem, Mass.,
to Vermont, and was one of the pioneers of Chester,
of which he was a resident from that time till his
death. The maiden name of his wife was Mary
Pearcc. and she was a native of Massachusetts, born
Sept. 5, 1768. She died on the home farm in the
town of Chester.

The father of our subject was reared in his native
State, and was married in Windsor County to Mar-
tha Brooks, a native of Chester. Her father, Sol-
omon Brooks, was born in New Hampshire, and
removed from there to Windsor County, Vt., and
settled in the town of Chester. He resided there
till 1844, when he came to Illinois, and located in
Brimlield, Peoria County, where he made his home
with his son until his death of cholera in 1849.
The maiden name of his wife was Millie Fisher,
and she died in 1847. After marriage Mr. Mar-
shall bought a farm in the town of Sudbury, Rut-
land County. But on account of ill-health he was
obliged to return to Windham County, and later to
Windsor County, where he bought a tract of land,
lie engaged in farming there till 1850, when he
came to Illinois, and after spending his first sum-
mer here in Metamora Township, he bought a tract
of land on section 8, Roanoke Township. A few
acres were broken, and he improved a valuable
farm, on which he resided until a short time be-
fore his demise. He then went to live with his
daughter, Mrs. Fisher, in Metamora Township, and
died in her home Sept. 4, 1879. His wife is still
living with Mrs. Fisher, and she has attained the ad-
vanced age of eighty-nine. Those worthy people
were the parents of seven children, six of whom grew
to maturity, as follows: Lestina, born March 31,
1822, is the wife of Abner Bailey, of Ford County ;
our subject and his sister Mary (twins), the latter
the wife of Samuel Butteifield; Amelia, born April
23, 1830, married E. A. Fisher of Metamora Town-
ship; Solomon, born April 18, 1833, lives in Roan-
oke Township; Cyrus, born Feb. 26, 1837, lives in
Ford County.

He of whom we write was the oldest son, and he
was reared in his native State, receiving a fair edu-
cation in the public schools, and at the early age
of eight years the sturdy, manly little lad began

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

233

to earn his own living. He continued to work by
the month till 1848, and then started for the great
West, coming to Illinois, by stnge to Troy, N. Y.,
thence by Erie Canal to Buffalo, from there by the
lakes to Chicago, and then by canal and Illinois
River to Peoria. He visited Woodford County at
the time, and sifter a stay here of three weeks he
and his companion bought six horses and a buggy
and returned overland to Vermont. In March,
1849, our subject again started on a journey to this
part of the country, coming by stage to Troy, and
thence by rail to Buffalo, from there on a lumber
wagon to Canada and Detroit, and from the latter
place he walked the greater part of the way to
Peoria. After his. arrival lie rented a farm in
Peoria County, and operated it till fall, when he
came once again to Woodford County, and in Feb-
ruary 1849, he made a claim to the southeast quar-
ter of section 8, Roanoke Township, and going to
Springfield on horseback he entered it at the gov-
ernment land office in that city. He built a house
on the place, and broke about forty acres of the
land before his next purchase in the .month of
June, the same year, when he bought the southwest
quarter of section 7, Roanoke Township, where he
now resides. There was a log house standing on
the land at the time, and a few acres were broken.
He paid $2.50 an acre for the land, and has
lived to see its value greatly increased by his ju-
dicious management and the many fine improve-
ments that he has made. He has erected a good
set of frame buildings, and has everything about
the place in excellent order. A portion of the lum-
ber from which his substantial dwelling was built
was drawn from Chicago. He has added to his
landed property till he is now the proprietor of
320 acres of fine, well improved land. At the time
he located here there were but four houses in the
township, and it lias been his good fortune to assist
in the development of the country from a wild
prairie to a wealthy and prosperous community.
In the early days of his settlement here there were
no railways in Illinois, and he aided in building
the first railway in the State. For some years Peo-
ria, Spring Bay, and Lacon were the principal mar-
kets, and it was much more difficult for a farmer
to dispose of his produce in those days than in

these times of easy communication by rail, to large
towns and cities that have grown up almost under
the eyes of our subject.

Feb 12, 1853, Mr. Marshall was married to Miss
Martha S. Fisher, and to them have come four
children, of whom the following is recorded:
Amos, who lives on the home farm, was born Oct.
24, 1854, and married Oct. 19, 1882 to Miss Josie
Scott; Ira K., a practicing physician in Chicago,
was born Feb. 28, 1856, and was married Feb. 9,
1888, to Miss Emma Mason; Rolla E., living on.
the home farm, was born Jan. 30, 1863, and was
married Sept. 2, 1885, to Miss Carrie C. Lightfoot;
Orpha, living on the home farm with her parents,
was born Sept. 18,1867. She learned the art of
dressmaking, in Chicago and is skillful at her trade.
These children were all given good opportunities
for an education. The two elder sons were grad-
uated from Alton College. Rolla was a student at
Eureka College, and Orpha spent one year at Eu-
reka College and one year at Evanston College.

Mrs. Marshall is, like her husband, a native of
Vermont, born at Mention, in Rutland County,
June 10, 1832. Her father, Amos Fisher, was born
in the town of Grafton, Windham Co., Vt., and
his father, Dr. Amos Fisher, was born in Massa-
chusetts. He practiced in Grafton many years, and
was well known in all the country round. Mrs.
Marshall's father was reared and married in his na-
tive State, and was a resident there till 1843, when
he came to Illinois accompanied by his wife and
eight children. The entire journey was made with
a team, they having a covered wagon and a stove,
and they cooked and camped by the way. They
started on the 28th of September, and arrived at
Low Point, Cazenovia Township, December 3. He
there bought a tract of land and began the improve-
ment of a place. His life was not prolonged many
years after his settlement in this count}', as his
death occurred in 1850. The maiden name of his
wife, Mrs. Marshall's mother, was Lydia Stoddard,
and she was a daughter of Samuel and Zeluah
(Richmond) Stoddard. There were eight children
born of their union: Emerald A., Martha S..
Louisa, Francis, Annie, Kosana, Ezra, Cynthia.
After her husband's death Mrs. Fisher continued
to reside on the homestead until 1867, and then

234

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

sold the place and removed to Cazenovia, thence
to Metamora, where she died in the home of her
son Emerald, May 29, 1879. She also resided sev-
eral years with our subject prior to her death.

Mr. and Mrs. Marshall and their children are
members of the Baptist Church, and by their con-
duct in the every da}- affairs of life, show that they
are sincere believers in the 'faith, and that their
lives are guided by Christian principles. In poli-
tics Mr. Marshall is a stanch Republican, and
although he is a strong prohibitionist he stands by
his party, as he does not favor a division in its
ranks to form a third party. He has always taken
an interest in educational matters, and besides as-
sisting in organizing the first school district in
Roauoke, was one of the School Directors of the
township for upwards of twenty years. Mr. Mar-
shall is in every sense a steadfast, reliable man,
one whenever betrays a trust, and who is at all times
and on all occasions found to be a cheerful and
ready helper by those needing assistance, and his
neighbors who consult him in regard to personal
matters find him a wise and safe counselor.

In 18C4, during the War of the Rebellion, our
subject was drafted into the service, but secured a
substitute, for which he paid $700. Our subject
erected the first frame barn, and first frame house
in Ronnoke Township.

I, ;.

& ' *

WILLIAM STEVENSON. In this gentle-
man, Woodford County has a fine repre-
sentative of the citizen-soldiers of our
land whose bravery and patriotism saved the Union
in the trying times of the late Civil War. and who
since then have been important factors in increas-
ing and extending the material prosperity of our
country. lie is one of the foremost farmers and
stock growers of Cazenovia Township, where lie
has an extensive well-managed farm, amply pro-
vided with conveniently arranged, commodious
buildings, and all other appointments of a well-
regulated estate.

Our subject was born near Blndensliurg, Knox
Co., Ohio, Aug. 7, 1833. His father, George

Stevenson, was a native of Washington County,
Pa.; and was the son of another George Stevenson,
who was a gallant soldier during the Revolution,
and after the close of the war was captured
by the Indians and taken to Canada and held for
ransom. He spent his last years in quietness in
the home of his son George in Knox County, Ohio.
The father of our subject spent his early life in his
native State, and when a young man. crossed the
mountains into Ohio, and became a pioneer of
Knox County, buying a tract of heavily timbered
land and there building a rude log house in which
our subject was born. He was quite prosperous in
his career as a farmer, clearing quite a large farm,
erecting a good set of frame buildings, and making
many other valuable improvements. In 1854 he
sold his property in Ohio and came to Tazewell
County, III., where he resided until March, 1856,
when he removed to this county and invested in a
section of fine farming land, comprising the north-
east quarter and the east half of the sonth
west quarter of section 12, Cazenovia Township.
One hundred acres of the land were broken and
fenced, and a new house stood on the place. At
that time Lacon was the nearest market, and Minonk
was the nearest railway station. During the few
years that his life was spared after coming to this
county, Mr. Stevenson made many improvements
on his farm, and at the time of his death, which oc-
curred in the fall of 1862, already had quite a good
farm. He was a man of industrious habits and of
high principles, and was accounted a valuable citi-
zen. The venerable mother of our subject now
makes her home with her son Thomas on the old
homestead, and she has attained the advanced age
of eighty-seven years. Her maiden name was
Hannah Le Fever. To her and her husband came
ten children, eight of whom grew to maturity :
Thomas. James, now dead; Martha J., wife of C.
F. McCulloch; our subject: Eliza, the wife of Rich-
ard Jsorris; George, who was a soldier in the late
war, enlisting in Company C, 65th Illinois Volun-
teer Infantry, and dying in the service; Caroline is
the wife of D. H. Norris; Oliver, now dead.

William Stevenson, the subject of this biog-
raphical review, was reared in his native county,
attended the early schools taught on the subscrip-

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

235

tion plan, and as soon as large enough began to
help his father on the farm, receiving from him a
good drill in agricultural pursuits. He came to
Illinois with his parents in the opening years of his
manhood, and remained with them till the date of
his entering the army. Imbued with the patriotic
spirit of his Revolutionary grandsire, Aug. 13.
18(52 he left his pleasant home at his country's call
and inarched to her defence, enrolling his name
as a member of Company C, 77th Illinois In-
f.intry, and serving through all the remaining
years of the war till the cruel strife was over, and
peace was declared. He went through the entire
"Vicksburg campaign, and was with Gen. Banks on
his Red River expedition, taking an active part in
the most important battles fought on the route.
Later he was present at the battles of Spanish Fort
and Fort Blakely. He did good service in camp
and field, and proved to be a cool, courageous,
faithful soldier, always prompt in obeying orders
and ever ready to follow his leader. He was dis-
charged with his regiment at Springfield and re-
turned home on the 10th day of August, 1865.

After his experience of military life, our subject
quietly resumed farming, and in 1871 located on
his present homestead. "He has met with more than
ordinary success in the pursuit of his calling, and
has one of the best farms in all Cnzenovia Town-
ship. It comprises 400 acres of land of exceeding
fertility and under a high state of cultivation so
that it yields to the utmost, and it is furnished
with a neat and commodious, well-arranged set of
buildings and all kinds of machinery for facilitating
the farm labors. It is admirably adapted to raising
stock, and Mr. Stevenson has fine herds of well-
graded horses, cattle and hogs.

In his efforts to build up this pretty, comfortable
home Mr. Stevenson has been warmly seconded by
a helpful, capable wife, to whom he was united in
marriage Nov. 2, 1870. Their pleasant wedded life
has been blessed to them by the birth of three chil-
dren Carrie Elizabeth, Lena May, Ralph. Mrs.
Stevenson's maiden name was Eleanor Dodds, and
she is a native of Ca/enovia Township, a daughter
of William and Priscilla Uodds, of whom see
sketch on another page of this book.

Mr. Stevenson is in every way worthy of the

high respect in which he is held by the entire com-
munity, as he is a noble, true-hearted, loyal,
Christian gentleman, one in whom his fellow-citi-
zens place implicit trust. He possesses in a high
degree the foresight, sagacity and sound discrim-
ination that are so essential to success in any
calling, combining with these a due sense of honor
and honesty. He and his estimable wife are con-
sistent members of the Presbyterian Church, sin-
cere in their religions faith as betokened by their
works. Mr. Stevenson is a strong Republican in
his political views, voting as he fought, for the prin-
ciples promulgated by that party.

AVID EVANS. Probably no man has
been more closely identified for the past
eighteen years with the business interests
of El Paso than the subject of this biog-
raphy. Since 1871 he has operated extensively as
a grain dealer and from that year until 1884, was
associated in partnership with Mr Jenkins who
has been for the past four years a resident of Cali-
fornia. The firm transacted a large business and
since being dissolved, Mr. Evans has operated
singly and alone. He came to Woodford from
Peoria Connty, where he had been occupied in
fanning and milling on the Kickapoo River, fifteen
miles from the city of Peoria. This mill was
established by his father in the pioneer times and
is still the property of the family.

Our subject attained his majority in Peoria
County, 111., of which he became a resident in
1840. Upon reaching manhood he succeeded to
his father's business in connection with the mill
which was established in 1844 and with which he
remained until 1871, the year of his removal to
El Paso. He was born in Montgomery Township,
Montgomery County, Pa., his early home being on
the Bethlehem Pike. His father, Evan Evans, was
likewise a native of Montgomery County and the
son of Walter Evans who traced his ancestry to
Wales. The latter settled in Pennsylvania where

236

PORTRAIT AMD BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

they flourished for several generations and were
almost invariably occupied in farming and milling.
They were generally Baptists in religion.

Walter Evans, the paternal grandfather of our
subject, married a Pennsylvania lady. Miss Smith,
and they spent the remainder of their lives in
Montgomery County, passing away when ripe in
years. Their son, Evan, the father of our subject,
was one of the elder members of a large family, and
he upon attaining to man's estate married Miss
Amelia Morris, a lady of Welsh descent. They
remained in Pennsylvania until the birth of all
their family and then about 1840 decided to change
their residence to the farther West. After being
engaged in milling a number of years the father
turned his attention to farming exclusively. The
wife and mother departed this life when about
forty-five 3'ears old, and the elder Evans was sub-
sequently married in Montgomery County, Pa. to
Mary A. Hill. There were born to the latter three
children, one of whom, Sarah, died young. Mr.
Evans and his second wife lived to be quite old.
He and both his wives and most of their children
belonged to the Baptist Church.

The subject of this sketch was the youngest of
the three children of his father's first marriage,
the others being Walter M., and Elizabeth, who
are deceased. Both had been married and left
families.

Our subject and his wife are active members of
the Baptist Church in which Mr. Evans has been a
deacon for many years and to which he contributes
liberally. Politically, he is a sound Republican
and has served a number of terms as School Direc-
tor, also represented his ward in the City Council
several terms. He is the friend of education and
is especially interested in church matters.

HRISTIAN RUVENCHT. Among those
who ventured into Woodford County dur-
^^^/ ing its early settlement, was a large repre-
sentation from across the Atlantic, who have assis-
ted greatly in developing the soil, building up from
the prairie beautiful homesteads adding largely to

the business interests of this section and develop-
ing its agricultural resources. The subject of this
notice is worthy of honorable mention among the
pioneers of Panola Township, to which he came
when a young man and where he has since lived.
By a course of arduous labor and close economy he
buift up a valuable homestead of which he is now
in possession, en joying all the comforts of life, and
which is pleasantly located on section 3.

A native of the province of Alsace, formerly be-
longing to France, our subject was born Dec. 26,
1834 and lived there until a youth of eighteen
years. In the meantime he was given a practical
education and was taught those habits of industry
and economy whicli have enabled him to fortify
himself against want in his old age. He learned
both French and German and when leaving school
was occupied principally upon a farm. He was an
ambitious lad and when reaching his eighteenth
year, not being satisfied with his prospects in his
native place resolved upon emigrating to America.

In the spring of 1852 our subject repaired to
Havre and took passage on a sailing vessel which,
after an ocean voyage of fifty-two days, landed
him safely in New Orleans. Thence he came di-
rectly to this county and sought employment and
for several years thereafter worked as a farm
laborer until saving enough to prosecute farming
on his own account. He began on rented land and
in due time purchased forty acres for which lie
paid six dollars per acre and which is included in
his present homestead. This was then a wild prai-
rie upon which not a furrow had been turned.
Deer, turkeys and wolves were plentiful <ind his
neighbors were few and far between.

Always making it a rule to live within his in-
come Mr. Ruvencht soon found himself on the
road to prosperity and invested his capital in ad-
ditional land until he became the owner of 400
acres in this county, and 240 acres in Livingston
County. While laboring and waiting he has
watched with warm interest the growth and devel-
opment of his adopted State and may properly feel
that he has been instrumental in bringing it to its
present condition. His broad fields with their neat
and substantial fences, his fat cattle and horses
with his farm buildings and other improvements,

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

237

indicate in .a marked manner to what good pur-
pose he has labored and the economy and pru-
dence which he must have practiced. Although
having very little to do with outside matters, he
keeps himself well posted upon current events and
votes independently, aiming to support the men
whom he considers best qualified for office irre-
spective of party. Several years ago he was a
School Director in his district and also officiated
as Pathmaster.

Our subject was married in 1864 to Miss Cath-
erine Risser and there have been born to them
three children. The eldest, a daughter, Annie, is
the wife of Joseph Bughman of Livingston County.
Barbara and Solomon are at home with their par-
ents. Mr. and Mrs. Ruvenecht belong to the Men-
nonite Church in which they are leading members
and to which they contribute a liberal support.
Although having labored many years, they are
still in their prime and well fitted to enjoy the
fruits of their early industry.

) AMES F. BOURN has been for many years
identified with the leading interests of Mi-
nonk and vicinity. He is of English de-
scent, his grandfather, Elijah Bourn, hav-
ing emigrated to America from the shores of Al-
bion when he was sixteen years of age. Having
reached the land of liberty lie made his home in the
Old Dominion, whither so many of his own nation
had preceded him. In Virginia he made the ac-
quaintance of the lady who became his wife. Their
honeymoon was spent in a manner which would
certainly have the charm of novelty to the brides
and grooms of the present day, who hurry across
the ocean, or seek a gay, fashionable summer re-
sort. , Grandfather Bourn and his young wife pro-
ceeded the day after their marriage to Kentucky,
not in the usual modern way of traveling, but by
horseback. After a long, fatiguing journey over
the mountains of Western Virginia they at last
reached their future home, and settled on a small

tract of land two miles from Nicholasville, and
twelve miles distant from the city of Lexington.
In this retired spot the couple passed their lives,
the wife dying in middle life, while the husband
lived to four score and four years. His first mar-
riage resulted in the birth of eight children, of
whom Elijah is the father of our subject. Grand-
father Bourn married in later years, but there were
no children from this second union.

Elijah Bourn grew to manhood in Kentucky
under the parental roof, but at the age of twenty,
five went to Ojven County, Ind., when he was mar-
ried the year after his arrival to Miss Nancy
Alexander. He then located on land he had pre-
viously purchased in Ray Township, Morgan
Co., Ind. This Innd was heavily timbered, and re-
quired constant and diligent labor to reduce it to
a state of cultivation. However, Elijah Bourn was
successful in putting into good condition 200
acres out of his purchase of 400 acres of the tim-
bered land. He at one time owned 1,300 acres of
land, and was even for those times a large land-
holder.

The record of the ten children born to Elijah
Bourn and his first wife is as follows: James F.,
Alexander, Marietta, Henry, Mahala, Emeline, Jef-
ferson, Perry, Newton and Sarah. The oldest of
this family is he of whom we write. Alexander
died in Morgan County, Ind., leaving three child-
ren; Marietta married Samuel Wheeler, and be-
came the mother of four children, thres sons and
one daughter. She died in Owen County, Ind.;
Henry is a resident of Morgan County, Ind.; Ma-
hala married Thomas Hodges, of Morgan County,
She passed to her last rest, leaving three children;
Emiline married Elijah Mannon and became the
mother of five children. She died at her home in
Morgan County ; Jefferson, also died in Morgan
County, leaving three fatherless children; Perry
makes his home in Sherman County, Neb.; Newton
is a resident of Adams County, Neb. The young-
est of this large family, Sarah, resides in Morgan
County, Ind. The father of our subject was mar-
ried a second time, and passed away June 7, 1887,
when he had reached the advanced age of seventy-
nine years.

The gentleman whose life record is here briefly

238

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

outlined, was born in Morgan County, Ind., Jan.
17, 1831, was reared to manhood on the home
fann, and as the majority of the boys of that day
passed tlieir time, he also was early put to such
work as his strength and experience enabled him to
perform, and in the winter seasons went for a very
few months to the district school. At the age of
nineteen years he was fortunate enough to attend a
graded school in Owen County, for one term, and
the instruction therein received was of material ad-
vantage to him in his life work. At the age of
twenty years he became a clerk for his uncle who
was engaged in the mercantile business, and was his
assistant for the period of one year, then he re-
turned to his father's home.

It is certainly appropriate that the biographical
record of Mr. Bourn should also contain an out-
line of the history and ancestry of her, who has
been for these many years a devoted, earnest co-
laborer, ever at his side, ready to lend assistance
to worthy projects, and to whose material aid and
sensible advice Mr. Bourn owes no little of his
present prosperity. To this faithful companion
Mr. Bourn was united in marriage March 1, 1855.
She was then Miss Barsheba E. Trowbridge, and
was a native of Washington County, Ind., and
born Jan. 23, 1832. Her parents were Dempsey
and Edith (Scketton) Trowbridge, natives respec-
tively of Virginia and Kentucky. She ws only
four years old when her father was taken from the
family by death, so she is not familiar with her pa-
ternal ancestry. Mr. Dempsey Trowbridge was a
man universally respected, of firm character,
and strength of will and was by profession a
teacher and minister in the Christian Church: Mrs.
Trowbridge survived her husband for a long time,
dving in the autumn of 1865, when the winter of
her life was rapidly approaching. She died in
Marshall County, 111.

Rev. and Mrs. Dempsey Trowbridge had a fam-
ily of eleven children, whose names follow: Samuel
W., Allen H., Robert T., Elizabeth A., Mary J.,
Barsheba E., (the wife of our subject), Martha E.,
James M., Sandford, Melinda A. and Dempsev H. ;
The eldest of these, Samuel W., died in Morgan
County; Allen H., is a minister in the Christian
Church, at Rutland, 111., and is well known among

the ranks of that church, as an able preacher, an
earnest man, and a sincere Christian. He is follow-
ing in the footsteps of his father, and is held in high
esteem among his parishioners. Robert T., the third
son. died in his early manhood in Indiana: Eliza-
beth A. married Jefferson C. Gray, and passed
away in Jasper County. Ind.; Mary J. married
Washington Bennington, but is dead, this event oc-
curring at her home, in Marshall County, III.;
Martha E., the third daughter, became the wife of
William Potts, and resides in Mitchell County,
Kan.; Sanford died when young; Melinda A. mar-
ried John Brown and died in Jasper County, Ind.;
Dempsey H., the namesake of his father, has been
gifted with a fine voice, and is an instructor in vo-
cal music in AVymore, Neb., where James M., also
resides.

Thus assuming the responsibility of a family at
the age of twenty-five years, our subject has been
prospered in his enterprises and has enjoyed the
blessings of a happy home and a comfortable in-
come. After his marriage Mr. Bourn settled on
some land owned by his father, situated on the
White River bottoms. Here lie built a house after
the primitive manner of carpentering. For nine
years he remained here, shaking with the ague,
which had him completely under power. In 1863
he came to drier, sunnier climes in Marshall
County, III., which was his home until 1865, when
he settled in Minonk. He rented land at 12.25
per acre in Marshall County, but upon changing
his location purchased land, now his farm. Eor
one year of his residence in Minonk he was en-
gaged in a store, and for one year also was a mil-
ler. For a period of three years he rented and
tilled 400 acres of land, lie gained an excellent
reputation as a farmer, for whatever he undertook
was executed in a thorough, systematic manner to
the very best of his ability. The passer-by would
always notice the absence of weeds, those destruc-
tive enemies of the farmer, and would also admire
the general air of neatness on the farm, whije at
present his garden is kept in a manner worthy of
his reputation, being clean and beautiful, and con-
taining only the choicest articles of garden pro-
duce. 'I he farm owned by Mr. Bourn is capable
of remarkable cultivation, and one year our sub-

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

243

ject gathered 1 1 ,000 bushels of corn off of 1 50 acres
of land. Now, however, his principal attention is
concentrated on gardening.

Mr. Bourn is a member of the Christian Church,
and serves as Deacon, besides giving liberally to
the support and maintenance of the cause. In
general politics he is a Republican, being in full
sympathy with the principles advocated by that
party, but in affairs of local importance only, he
aims to vote for the man not for the party, being
very liberal in his views.

The family of Mr. Bourn is small now, though
in the past five children clustered around the table
and fireside. One of these, a daughter, Anna, by
name, died in childhood. Four are now living:
James Dempsey, better known under his pseudonym
of "Owen Bartlett," is a theatrical manager. The
second son, William Parris, is now farming in this
county; Rose E., the only surviving daughter, lives
in Abilene, Kan., and is the wife of R. S. Jacobs
of that place. She has one child named Oscar F. ;
the youngest of the family is Fred P., who is living
at home.

Thus conspicuous among the many residents of
Wood ford County is Mr. Bourn, as a man of in-
dustry, prudence, |far-sceing and kind-hearted. He
and his estimable wife represent the best society in
their adopted home, and are everywhere welcomed
as respected guests.

lEV. ARMISTED KERRICK. "Mr. Kerrick
has traveled more miles, preached more ser-
mons, made more prayers than any other
|||| local preacher in the State." The above is
quoted from the Rev. John W. Rogers, endorsed
by the Rev. Richard Haney. one of the pioneer
ministers of the Methodist Church, and his son. the
Rev. James Haney. Not only has Mr. Kerrick
delivered many discourses but he is also noted for
the ability and the power displayed through the
medium of his sermons. He is known by everyone
within many miles, and wherever he has gone
his name is a household word, as belonging to a
minister who has accomplished a great good in his

county and State. He is very outspoken in his
opinions, and speaks his sentiments without fear or
favor.

The Rev. Mr. Kerrick resides in Bennington
Township, Marshall County, where his home has
been from the year 1856. He is the son of Thomas
and Phoebe (Carethers) Kerrick. The Kerrick
family are of Irish extraction, but for many gen-
erations have been residents of the United States.
In 1824 the family removed from their Eastern
home to what was then considered the far away
West, Muskingum County, Ohio. Later their resi-
dence was in Franklin County, Ind. Thomas Ker-
rick was a carpenter by trade, but before leaving
his first home in Virginia he met with an accident
which debarred him from working longer in this
trade. He had been injured in Virginia by a run-
away horse, and was left a cripple for life. When
he left his native State he was scarcely able to walk,
while he carried his arm in a sling for some time.
He had only $27.50 to carry himself and his
family to their new home, but after reaching Mus-
kingum County he taught school and two of the
sons engaged in cutting wood. The wood thus
obtained they exchanged for salt, for which they
paid twenty cents per bushel. The autumn suc-
ceeding their arrival they were enabled to get the
means to continue their westward journey, and with
a one horse team, emigrated to Franklin County.
From that place they again removed in 1840 to
Decatur County, Ind. In this county the boys
grew up, obtaining such education as was possible,
which as may be readily imagined was very limited.
Their land was rented, and they were compelled to
work very hard especially at first, to make both
ends meet.

Thomas Kerrick for many years employed him-
self as a teacher, for which position he was nat-
urally adapted by his thoroughness and patience,
as well as by his education. During the latter part
of his life he was quite deaf and almost blind, so
that he would consent to take only very small
schools. He passed away in 1856, at the home-
stead in Decatur County. His wife lived some
years thereafter, and during the last portion of her
life was also nearly blind.

Thomas Kerrick and his wife had ti f:imily of

244

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

eight children, whose names are given as follows:
Nimrod, a resident of Bloomington, 111.; James,
who died in Decatur County; Walter, who died in
Marshall County, 111. ; Armisted, of this sketch ; Jo-
hanna and Stephen both died in Deeatur County,
Ind. ; Hugh passed from earth in Rush County.
Ind.; Mary married James Throp, of Decatur
County.

Armisted Kerrick is a native of Loudoun County,
Va., and was born Feb. 21, 1819. The principal
portion of his boyhood and youth was spent in
Franklin County, Ind. At the age of twenty years
he went to Decatur County to clear up some land
and prepare it for a residence for his parents, who
removed there the following year. When prepared
to establish domestic ties of his own our subject
was united in marriage with Miss Sarah A. Sloan.
He was a brave man, assuredly, for when he formed
a home of his own he was penniless, but with f.he
natural courage of youth he feared no future, how-
ever dark. His wife was born in Union County,
Ind. After their marriage he rented land, and be-
gan by persevering, unremitting work to lay the
foundation of future comfort. He was able in 1845
with the assistance of his father, to purchase eighty
acres of land in Franklhi County, on which he
settled.

Rev. Mr. Kerrick was prevented from assiduous
labor for a long period, on account of an unfortu-
nate accident which occurred before his marriage.
He had his knee cut by an ax, and it was suffi-
ciently severe to cripple him for some time. He
suffered from poor health often after that, but
never allowed it to interfere with his chosen calling,
the preaching of the Gospel.

From Indiana Mr. Kerrick and his family re-
moved to Low Point, Wood ford Co., 111. He was
now the possessor of about $3,000 in money, and
the first year of his residence in the new home he
cleared 123 acres of land in three different pieces.
He has occupied his present home since 1864, and
is now the owner of 566 acres of land, which he
has improved until it is in good condition.

Mrs. Kerrick died "in 1870, March 19, leaving
nine children, two having already preceded her to
rest. Their names are: Joanna, wife of Ahua
Rogers; Mary, Stephen, deceased; Josiah, Thomas,

resides in Kansas; Jacob W., deceased; Harrison,
James, in Minonk; Henry, of Bloomington, 111.;
Benjamin B. and Pho;be.

The second wife of Mr. Kerrick, who yet remains
by his side, was Mrs. Jane (Burleigh) Soures. She
was born in Perry County, where her father, Taza-
lear Burleigh, still lives. By his second union Mr.
Kerrick has had three children, namely: John B.,
Tazalear, and one daughter, named Orpha., who
died when only five years old. Mrs. Kerrick, by
her former marriage, had one child, a daughter,
Minnie Soures. In politics Mr. Kerrick is a Re-
publican, and is very proud of the fact that in
1840 he voted for Gen. W. H. Harrison, and in
1888 for Benjamin Harrison for the Presidency of
the United States, and has five boys who voted
for Harrison.

Mr. Kerrick for many years has been an orna-
ment to the Methodist Church, 'of the State of Illi-
nois. He has benefited the church in which he of-
ficiates as minister, by the purity of his life which is
an example all men might follow. He will be sadly
missed when called away from the ranks, but can
rest in the knowledge of the fact that he has been
faithful in the few things which have been com-
mitted to his care, and thus will be prepared for
the greater joys that yet remain unto the people
of God.

As in turning over the pages of the family
Album the eye pauses longest before the faces of
those we most tenderly love and most highly es-
teem, so in perusing this ALBUM, the reader's gaze
will rest lingeringly and lovingly upon the por-
traits of Mr. Kerrick and his wife, who have grown
old in the Lord's vineyard.

ER1T PATTERSON is engaged in gen-
eral farming and stock-raising on section
29, Palestine Township. He is a leading
and influential citizen of the community,
and is well and favorably known throughout
the entire county, where he has many friends.
As a public spirited and progressive man, he is well

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

245

worthy of a representation in this volume, and vu
are pleased to record bis sketch, which is as fol-
lows:

He was born in Rush County Ind.. May 30th,
1833, and is descended from an early Vir-
ginian family. His grandfather, James Patterson,
who was a native of Germany, left his native land
and emigrated to America during the colonial
days of this country, settling in Lo*ndoun County
Va. The ancestry of the family were noted for long-
evity, and lie died at a ripe old age on the old
homestead where he settled immediately after com-
ing to this country.

The father of our subject. Joshua Patterson, was
one of a large family of eleven children, almost all
of whom lived to an advanced age. He was born
in Loudoun County ,Va., where he was reared to man-
hood and married Miss Mary Elizabeth Bell,
daughter of James and (Mary Patterson 1 ) Bell, who
passed their entire lives in the Old Dominion. The
mother died when her daughter was an infant, and
she was reared by an older sister, Mrs. Lydia Bax-
ter, with whom she removed to Kentucky in an
parly day. They settled in Scott County, that
State, and it was there that she became the wife of
Mr. Patterson. Ten children were born of their
union, seven sons and three daughters, all of whom
grew to manhood and womanhood,were married and
had families, while four sons and two daughters arc
yet living. In early life, Mr. Patterson had learned
the blacksmith's trade, and after his marriage
followed that occupation for a number of years. Be-
lieving that he could better his condition by a
removal from Kentucky, he made a trip on horse-
back to Indiana with a view to selecting a locution.
and chose Rush County as the scene of his future
operations. The mother of our subject accompa-
nied his father on that journey; they were at
Indianapolis where there was but one house at
that time, and that was a log house. He then re-
turned to his home and in 1825, accompanied by
his family again started for the county in which he
had resolved to locate. They made the journey
with teams through an almost unbroken wilder-
ness, but at length reached their destination in
safety. They located in Richland Township, where
Mr. Patterson cleared 1 60 acres of land, situated

on what was known as the school section, and
placed the entire amount under cultivation. He
made many improvements, built a good home and
from that time until his death resided upon the
farm which he had first purchased. He was called
from the busy scenes of this life Dec. 23, 1851, at
the age of seventy-one years, his wife surviving
him until Nov. 14, 1873, when she also passed to
her final rest. In early life, Mrs. Patterson was a
member of the Baptist Church, but after becoming
a resident of Indiana, both she and her husband
united with the Christian Church, and died in that
faith.

Our subject was reared to manhood upon his
father's home farm and received a common school
education in his native county. On Oct. 2, 1856,
he was united in the holy bonds of matrimony
with Miss Mary A. Mitchell, who was born in
Pickaway County Ohio, Sept. 8. 1830, and is a
daughter of Joseph and Cornelia (Foster) Mitchell,
who are now residents of Andersonville, Franklin Co.
Ind., where for a nnmber of years Mr. Mitchell
engaged in his trade of chair making, but now
owns a store. Both are now more than seventy
years of age. The grandfather of Mrs. Patterson
was for a number of years a minister of the Metho-
dist Episcopal Church, but his wife is a member
of the Christian Church. Unto them was born a
family of twelve children, six sons and six daugh-
ters, while three sons and six daughters are yet
living, and with the exception of one son and one
daughter all are married.

The union of Mr. and Mrs. Patterson has been
blessed by a family of six children, five of whom
are yet living Elsworth L., the first born, married
Margaret Wilson, and now resides in Secor, where
he is engaged at his trade of carpentering; Charles
M., a resident farmer of Palestine Township, wed-
ded Sarah Gassner; William Leslie is still at home,
and assists in the cultivation ^f the farm; Everett
is yet with his parents; Lillie is the wife of S. C.
Platt, who for many years was a prominent teacher
at Luverne Iowa; one child died in infancy.-

Since attaining his majority, Mr. Patterson has
followed the occupation of farming, and has been
very successful in that business. He now owns
and operates 160 acres of arable; land on section

246

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

29, Palestine Township, where he has made his
home since 1869, covering a period of twenty
years. He has, however, resided in the township
since 1864, the year of his arrival in the county.
His land is now under a high state of cultivation,
well improved and stocked with good grades of
horses and cattle. His residence is a neat and
substantial dwelling and is one of the most pleas-
ant homes in the community, while the entire sur-
roundings indicate thrift and refinement. As a
business man, Mr. Patterson is sagacious and pru-
dent, yet entertains progressive ideas, and is now
numbered among the prosperous farmers of Wood-
ford County. Though his life has not been with-
out adveisity, he possesses a resolute will and
steadfastness of purpose which overcome all diffi-
culties and insure success. In politics, he is a warm
advocate of the principles of the Republican party,
to which he gives his earnest support. He is ever
ready to aid in.thc advancement of those enterprises
which are calculated to benefit the general public,
and lias done no inconsiderable part towards secur-
ing the best educational advantages for the com-
munity, having frequently served as school director.
Himself and wife are members of the Christian
Church in which they are active workers, Mr.
Patterson having served as Elder since its organi-
zation. Their many friends throughout the county
will receive this brief sketch of their lives with
pleasure, for they are widely and favorably known.

ARION POTTER. Many years have gone
by since Ephraim Potter first came to
Wood ford County, with a view to estab-
lishing here a permanent home. He was a
g3iitleman of Southern birth, and had been recently
married to a young lady in Indiana. TJie greater
portion of their married lives was passed in this
State, and there the subject of this brief biographi-
cal record was born, April 2, 1843. He is thus
now in the prime of life, and has accumulated
around him the comforts of this world, having 320
acres of improved land in Palestine Township, on

section 16. Not only does he farm with success,
but he is also a stock-raiser, and in this has been
prospered, gaining a reputation among all who
know him, as a breeder of fine stock, as well as an
agriculturist of more than ordinary ability and
business management.

Briefly told, the life of Ephraim Potter, the father
of our subject, is as follows: He was of Southern
birth, and possessed the agreeable, fascinating
social qualities for which the Southern people are
famous. He was reared in North Carolina, his
native State, and upon attaining years of maturity
came to Indiana, where he married his second wife,
Elizabeth Hedrick. She was born in Georgetown,
and was there reared and married. After marriage
Ephraim Potter and his wife came to Illinois,
nnd made their home in Palestine Township, then
a wild, uncultivated land, with but few inhabit-
ants, and those separated by wide distances of
seemingly uninhabitable land. Mr. Potter, with a
clear, prophetic knowledge of what Ihe future had
in store for this land, sent to his old Southern
home and persuaded his parents to come North
and make their residence with him. This they
did, spending the remainder of their lives in the
country chosen as the abode of their sou. They
were quite aged when they passed to their final
rest. Ephraim Potter and his wife lived and died
on the homestead which they had built up on first
coming to this county, and when called to rest
were universally regretted and mourned. The
father died Dec. 1, 1862, when about sixty years
of age, but the mother survived him at her old
home until December, 1881 , when she too died.
She was the second wife of Mr. Potter, for by a
former marriage he became the father of ten chil-
dren. His first wife died in Indiana. Mr. and
Mrs. Ephraim Potter were both members of the
Christian Church, and he was in politics a strong
Democrat. In the pioneer social circles, they were
universally esteemed as among the most generous
and hospitable people of the whole county.

Marion Potter was among the younger of the
nine children by the last marriage. He had four
brothers and four sisters, most of whom are yet
living. In this, his native county, our subject
spent the days of his boyhood, which were happily

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

247

passed in the various employments necessary to
the successful cultivation of a very large farm.
Upon the outbreak of the civil wav, although under
age, our subject determined to do battle for the
cause of the Union, and accordingly enlisted in the
88th Illinois Infantry, Company F, Capt. Chicker-
ing commanding. He enlisted in the latter part of
1862, and went with his regiment to the South,
fighting witli them at Perryville, Ky. He was
honorably discharged at Louisville, Ky., after thir-
teen months' service.

Before the return of peace to the country, Mr.
Potter was united in marriage, Jan. 28, 1864, with
Miss Mary A. Fry, who was born in Ohio, Nov. 8.
1 845. She was the daughter of Joseph and Rebecca
(Billenger) Fry, natives of Pennsylvania, and resi-
dents of Ohio for many years. About I860 they
came West, and died in Palestine Township, after
farming there several years with good results.
Mr. and Mrs. Fry had a family of three children,
of whom Mary A. was the only daughter. Her
education was commenced in Ohio and completed
in Illinois, and she received practical training
which prepared her to take the household reins and
assume the duties of a house, witli little effort and
good success. Mr. and Mrs. Potter had a family
of seven children, of whom two are now deceased,
having died in infancy. Those living are: Legetta
M., Berta L., Chelsa.O., Viola A. and Gilford E.
These children all remain under the parental roof-
tree, and are receiving practical educations in the
schools of the district. In politics Mr. Potter is a
Democrat.

BENJAMIN D. HERRICK has been a resi-
dent of Woodford County ever since the
year 1856, with the exception of eight years
(1878 1886), which time was passed by him
in Marshall County. He owns and operates 120
acres of land on section 6, Clayton Township, and
also cultivates 120 acres of land which he rents
and which adjoins his own property.

Our subject was born in Loudoun County, Va.,on
the 20th day of November, 1831, and is the son of

William and Rowena (Holmes) Ilerrick, natives
respect! vely of Virginia and Massachusetts. The
Ilerrick family for many generations were resi-
dents of Massachusetts, where the grandfather of
our subject was a Baptist minister, and where his
entire life was passed. He was regarded as a man
of powerful mental vigor as well as great charity
toward all. He devoted his life to deeds of kind-
ness ;ind raised a family of sons and daughters
who walked in his footsteps.

William Ilerrick was the oldest son of his father,
and in his youth was captivated by tales of ocean
life, and so became a sailor. In due course of
time he was promoted to be captain of a ship that
traversed the Atlantic. As he grew older, how-
ever, sea life lost its charms, so he settled down in
Virginia, and engaged in teaching school in Loudoun
County. There he married, and in 1837 removed to
Franklin County, Ind., where he followed the pro-
fession of a teacher. P^or a period of his life he
taught school in Ohio. He passed from earth at
his home in Decatur County, Ind., in 1853, when he
had attained the age of sixty-five years. His wife,
the mother of our subject, lived until 1885, dying
at the age of eighty -two years.

To William Herrick and his wife there were
born nine children, viz., Joshua, a resident of Jef-
ferson County, Neb.; Benjamin D., of this sketch;
Martha, who became the wife of S. H. Hamilton,
and lives in Kingman County, Kan.; Electa. who
married Angus Thorn, of Minonk; William D.. who
makes his home in Table Rock, Neb.; Rowena, who
is the wife of Abram Frost, of Jefferson Count}',
Neb. ; Stephen H ., also a resident of Jefferson County,
Neb.; Edwin M., who was a member of the 86th
Illinois Infantry, and died of small-pox in New
York City while on his way home. He was
wounded in a skirmish near Savannah; Gilbert,
who also enlisted, and served four months, con-
tracting disease which ultimately caused his death.
After the close of the war he became a pioneer of
Jefferson County, Neb.

Our subject removed to Indiana with his parents
when ho was a lad of six years, and there the main
portion of his youth was passed. He early learned
the lesson of work, and willingly did whatever his
hands found to do. In 1856 he moved a little

246

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

further toward the setting sun, coming to Illinois,
where he broke prairie land for two years. He
then was able to rent land, and to the frontier
home thus prepared brought his mother and the
family.

A few years after his arrival in Illinois he estab-
lished a home of his own, his marriage with Miss
Elizabeth Houck being solemnized March 1, 1860.
She was reared to womanhood in this county, being
the daughter of Jacob C. Houck, of Washburn.

The family of Mr. Benjamin D. Herrick consists
of his wife and two children, both sons, William
E. and Jacob B. Mrs. Herrick is a member of the
Methodist Episcopal Church, and Mr. Herrick con-
tributes of his means generously to the maintenance
not only of the church, but all organizations which
are calculated to uplift the people. Politically he
votes the Republican ticket, but has never desired
public office, although ever willing to assist those
of his friends who are anxious for public honors.

EACON EMERALD A. EISHER. Wood-
lord County, is greatly indebted for its
present wealth and high standing to the
sturdy, intelligent, enterprising tillers of
the soil who have been instrumental in developing
its vast agricultural resources. As a worthy mem-
ber of its farming population, who has contributed
his quota towards its advancement, it gives us
pleasure to present to the readers of this work a
brief review of the life of Deacon Fisher. A repre-
sentative of an honorable pioneer family, he has
himself performed the pioneer task of improving a
farm, which is located on section 1, Metamora
Township, and is in all points comparable with the
most desirable in the neighborhood.

Our subject is of New England birth and ante-
cedents. He was born in the town of Mendon,
Rutland Co., Vt., March 19,1831, theson of Amos
Fisher, who was also a native of Vermont, born
in the town of Grnfton, Winclham County, Nov.
2, 1802. His father, Dr. Amos Fisher, was a na-
tive of Bridgewater. Mass., where he practiced

medicine prior to his removal to Vermont. He
went to that State during the Revolutionary War,
and became one of the early settlers of Grafton,
where he bought a tract of forest covered land. He
practiced his profession there while he superin-
tended the improvement of a farm, and was a resi-
dent there until his death, when the town and county
were deprived of a valued citizen.

The father of our subject grew to manhood in
his native town, and was there married to Lydia
Stortdard, a native of Dummerston, Vt., and a
daughter of Samuel and Zerviah (Richmond) Stod-
dard. After marriage he removed to Mendon,
Rutland County, and purchased land there on
which he made his home several years. In 1842
he sold his property in Vermont, and in the fall of
the year started with his family for the distant State
of Illinois, making the entire journey overland,
fording the various streams en route, and crossing
Illinois River on the ice the 1st day of December,
pushed on to Wood ford County. He located in
Cazenovia Township, taking possession of a vacant
log cabin 14x16 feet, in which the family spent
the winter. During that season other fatmilies
joined them from the East, and one night twenty-
eight persons slept in that small habitation. Mr.
Fisher purchased a tract of land on section 20, Ca-
zenovia Township, about 1846, five acres of which
were broken and fenced. His means were very
limited, and he sought employment at various
kinds of work to keep his family provided with
the necessaries of life. Fortunately deer, turkeys,
and other wild game were plentiful, and bread stuffs
were cheap, so that they managed very well. The
father opened a good farm, and built a comfortable
home ere his death, which took place March 15,
18nO. His community was then deprived of one
of its most useful and respected citizens, who in all
the relations of life had done his duty in a manly,
straightforward way. His good wife survived him
many years, dying finally in the home of our sub-
ject, May 29, 1879, at the advanced age of seventy-
six years. There were twelve children born of
their married life, eight of whom grew to ma-
turity.

The subject of this sketch was eleven years old
when lie accompanied his parents to this State, and

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

249

he has a clear remembrance of the incidents of their
journey, and of the strange pioneer life that fol-
lowed their settlement in this then wild, thinly in-
habited region. He attended the pioneer schools '
of the county, and early commenced to assist his
father in the development and improvement of his
farm. He remained at home with his parents till
he attained manhood, ard at the time of his mar-
riage located in Roanoke Township. He resided
there three years, and then bought the place where
he now lives on section 1, Metamora Township.
II is years of steadfast and persevering toil, have
been amply rewarded, and as old age approaches, it
finds him well fortified ag.iinst poverty and want.

Nov. 30, 1 853, Deacon Fisher took unto himself
a wife in the person of Miss Amelia Marshall, who
has proved to him an invaluable helpmate. She
was born in the town of Chester; Windsor Co., Vt.,
to Thomas and Martha (Brooks) Marshall. For
her parental history, see sketch of E. R. Marshall,
on another page of this volume.

The power of honest}- and integrity is well illu-
strated in the quiet, unpretentious life of Deacon
Fisher, as all agree who know him, and all who
come in contact with him, realize that he is a Chris-
tian man in every sense of the word, and practices
Christianity in deed and in truth. He and his wife
are valued members of the Roanoke Baptist Church,
and he has served as Deacon since he was twenty
years of age, in this and other churches. He loves
the church with which he has been connected for
nearly a life-time, and lends a ready hand in sup-
port of its interests.

\T AMES C. IRVING, a well known citizen of
Metamora, connected with the Wood ford
County Circuit Court as Clerk, a position for
which he is eminently fitted, is regarded as
one of the most intelligent and able of our public
officials. He comes of good Scottish blood and of
fine, old Revolutionary stock, his great grandfather,
Daniel Irving, coming to America from Scotland
in ColQiiial times, and becoming a prominent cilizen

of Somerset County, N. J., and during the struggle
of the Colonists for freedom from the mother coun-
try, he took an active part in the war as a gallant
officer of a New Jersey regiment. He spent the
remainder of his days in Somerset County, his life
having been prolonged to the advanced age of one
hundred years. His son, James, grandfather of pur
subject, was born in Somerset County, and passed
hl.sviilire life in his native New Jersey. He was a
carpenter and wagon maker by trade, and also car-
ried on farming. He also rounde-l out a long life,
dying at the age of ninety-one. The maiden name
of his wife was Sarah Castner. She was a native
of New Jersey, and a daughter of Peter Castner.

David Irving, father of our subject, was born in
the village of Liberty Corner, Somerset Co., N. J.,
in the year 1820. He grew to manhood in his na-
tive State, and early learned the trade of a brick
mason, which he followed in New Jersey till 1839,
when he came to Illinois. He first located in Jack-
sonville, and was actively engaged in his calling
there, that city being nothing more than a small
hamlet. He erected several buildings, among them
some important public buildings, including the asy-
lum for the deaf and dumb. In 1844, he came to
Woodford County, as lie had secured the contract
to build the court house, and at once commenced
to make the brick for it, and it stands to-day as a
monument of his handiwork and skill in his craft, it
having been completed in the season of 1845-46.
He has been a continuous resident of this county,
and for many years was engaged in building and
contracting, whereby he won a sufficient compe-
tence for all his wants. The maiden name of his
wife was Esther E. Perry, and she was born in
Chester County, Pa., a daughter of Benjamin
Franklin Perry, and died in Metamora Township,
March, 1873. There were five children born to her
and her husband, of whom the following three are
living: Our subject; Peivival B., a resident of Met-
amora; Eugene Douglas, living in Metamora Town-
ship. The father of our subject has been a man
of much prominence in this county since making
his home here, taking an active part in its upbuild-
ing, contributing to its material prosperity, and
assisting in the maintenance of law and order as a
civic official, at one time serving with honor as

250

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

Sheriff of the County. He has always been a faith-
ful supporter of the Democratic party, in whose
policy he is a firm believer.

James C. Irving, of whom we write, is a native-
born citizen of Wooclford County, Metamora
Township being the place of his birth, and Dec. 10,
1850, the date of that important event in his life.
In the public schools of this city the bright studious
lad received the preliminaries of a sound educa-
tion. At the youthful age of thirteen he com-
menced lite on his own account as a clerk in a
grocery store, and was engaged at that occupation
the greater part of the time till 1867, when, ambi-
tious to better his education, he entered Eureka
College and took an excellent course of study, rank-
ing high in his classes during the two years that he
was a student in that institution, notwithstanding
that he had to devote a part of his time to manual
labor to pay for his board. In 1869, he left col-
lege and returned to Metamora, turning his at-
tention to acquiring the art of printing in the
office of the Wood ford Sentinel, gaining a thorough
knowledge of the craft, so that in a few years he
rose to the responsible position of foreman of the
office, having full charge of the local department
of the paper. He gave perfect satisfaction and
was retained as head of that department till the
month of December, 1880, when he resigned to
accept the office of Deputy Circuit Clerk. He
served eight years and became thoroughly conver-
sant with all the duties connected with the position,
and doing" such faithful and efficient work that it
was justly considered by his constituents that no
man was better qualified for the higher position of
Circuit Clerk, and he was accordingly elected to his
present office at the expiration of the time men-
tioned, and is one of the most popular officials about
the court house.

Mr. Irving and Mrs. Carrie S. Kern (nee Hirsch)
were united in marriage Jan. 11, 1877. Mrs. Irving
was born in the pleasant town of Snncook, N. H.,
and is a daughter of F. F. and Caroline (Starrett)
Hirsch.

Our subject has honored industry and intelligence
in thought and cx'imple. and he has many pleasant
social qualities that render him a favorite with his
associates. lie and his amiable wife are members

in high standing of the Congregational Church, con-
tributing liberally to its support. In politics, he is
a steady adherent of the Democratic party, strongly
sustaining its policy on all proper occasions.

OHN G. ZELLER, M. D. One of the grand,
est of all professions is that of the physi-
cian. While the mission of the minister is
to heal the wounds of the sonl and comfort
aching hearts, that of the physician is the almost
equally important one of healing the body, and fit-
ting it to become the proper receptacle for its ten-
ant, the soul. The precious tidings proclaimed by
the Gospel teacher would have but little effect on
a diseased mind and body, unfitted to receive the
messages sent to it. But the physician with his
courageous mind and willing hand here steps in, and
with dextrous touch and quick perceptive powers
remedies, as far as possible, the condition of the
body.

The grandeur and importance of his profession
is fully understood by Dr. John G. Zeller. Among
all the luminaries of this branch of life-work he
holds no inconspicuous place, and his light is not
dimmed by the reflection of those around it. For
thirty-five years he has held an honored place in
the affections and respect of the people, and has
in this time been enabled to save many persons to
longer life, and has also comforted many sad hearts
when at last even skill and knowledge were of no
avail.

Dr. Zeller is a child of America only by adop-
tion, as his birthplace is Bavaria, Germany, where
he was born Dec. 10, 1828. He inherits the energy
and indomitable perseverance of a long line of
German ancestry, and this in a great measure is the
cause of his success. His grandfather was Mathew
Zeller, a native also of the same place, where he
passed the main portion of his life and where he
passed away in 1853, at the age of eighty-five
years. The son of Mathew Zeller, and the father of
John G. Zeller, was Anthony Zeller, also a native

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PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

251

of Bavaria, where lie lived all the days allotted to
him. He was born in 1805, and was by occupa-
tion a farmer during the earlier part of his life, but
later became a real-estate agent. His death is re-
corded as having occurred in 1873.

To Anthony Zeller and his wife Josephine there
were born four children, viz.: Josephine, Mathew,
Charles, and John G., the subject of this record.
Josephine still remains in the Fatherland; she mar-
ried Mr. Ruess, of Bavaria, where they make their
home. Of their two children, one, a son, remains
in Germany, but the other, a daughter, is living in
Spring Bay, 111. Mathew has been twice married,
his first wife being Miss Schnitzler, of Bavaria.
His second wife is also a native of the same place.
He is the father of seven children. Charles is sin-
gle and resides in Butler County, Neb., where he
was engaged in farming, but is now retired.

Dr. Zeller first came to America in 1847 and re-
mained two years, devoting his time in various
ways until 1849, when he returned to his native
land. After a four years' sojourn there his thoughts
turned longingly to the country across the waters,
and thither he retraced his steps in 1853, entering
the college at St. Louis. Here he passed two stud-
ious terms and was then graduated, having acquit-
ted himself witli honor to his own name and credit
to his teachers. Immediately thereafter he came
to Spring Bay, Wood ford Co., 111., and opened an
office. Like all young physicians among strangers
his beginning was modest, but his intelligence and
practical preparation for his life work soon met
with the merited recognition, and from that time
thenceforward he has occupied a prominent place
among all the physicians of the county.

Dr. Zeller has been twice married, the first union
being with Miss Caroline Nicholas. Four of their
children are living, viz. : Charles A., George A.,
Josephine and Fredericka C. The eldest of these,
Charles, married Caroline Miller, of Woodford
County, by whom he has two children Clara and
George. He is occupied as a merchant and also as
boatman on the Illinois River; George A. married
Sophia Kline, of Henry County, 111., and they are
now enjoying a delightful wedding tour in Europe.
Upon their return they will locate in Peoria, where
he is a physician and surgeon. Like his father he is

a graduate of the St. Louis Medical College, hav-
ing completed his course there in 1879; the daugh-
ters remain at home.

Dr. Zeller was a second time united in marriage
with Miss Caroline Winkler, of Woodford County,
111. Her parents are natives of Germany. Of the
union of Doctor and Mrs. Zeller there have been
born three children, as follows: Julius C., Christine
and William L. Julius is attending school at
Evanston, while the others remain at home.

Mrs. Dr. Zeller and her daughters are members
of the Lutheran Church, and Dr. Zeller contributes
liberally to its support, as -.veil as to the support of
all societies and organizations calculated to uplift
humanity and benefit the world at large. He is a
member of the Woodford County Medical Associa-
tion, and also of the Illinois State Association. In
politics he is in sympathy with the Republican
party, and uniformly votes that ticket. He has
served with so much success as Supervisor of his
township that he has been called on to act in that
capacity for three terms.

p.*-g)

LMON H. DANFORTH, of the firm of C.
R. Danforth & Company, bankers, Min-
onk, holds a prominent position among the
esteemed and honored citizens of Wood-
ford County, and it is with pleasure we place a brief
synopsis of his life in this biographical volume.
He is a native of New England, born in Dana,
Worcester Co., Mass., June 24, 1824, being the son
of Samuel and Mehitable (Marshall) Danforth,
both natives of Massachusetts. In looking over
the genealogical records, we find that the Dan-
forths came from England to America many gen-
erations ago and locating in New England, at once
identified themselves with its best interests, and
assisted in its growth and advancement.

The grandfather of our subject, who died at an
advanced age, served in the Revolutionary War.
He reared a large family of children, of whom
Samuel,the father of our subject, became a fanner in

252

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

Massachusetts, and lived there until, enfeebled by
old age, he went to New Hampshire, and spent his
last years with one of his daughters, dying at the
venerable age of eighty-six years, his wife having
preceded him a short time before at the good old
age of eighty-two years. To this worthy couple were
born a family of ten children, of 'vhom one died
in infancy, one was killed when he was twelve
years old by being thrown from a horse, and the
remaining eight grew to maturity, the following
being recorded of them: Henry, a Baptist minis-
ter, died in Evans, Erie Co. N. Y. ; Apleton, a
Baptist minister, and for ten years missionary to
Assam, India, died in Philadelphia; Richard, now
living in New Hampshire, is a tanner by occupation ;
George, a farmer, died in Minonk, where he located
in 1856; Almon H. ; Abigail, married Warren
White and died in Bristol. N. H. ; Nancy, wife of
Theodore Patterson, died in Minonk; Jane, wife of
Rev. Oliver P. Pitcher, a minister of the Metho-
dist denomination, died in New York State.

Almon, of whom we write, was reared on his
father's farm, and received a substantial education
in the common schools of his native State, having
been a diligent and observing pupil. .At the age
of seventeen years, desiring to work at a trade
rather than to till the soil, he learned the business
of a tanner and followed that occupation in Bristol,
N. H,, until 1856. In the spring of that year, Mr.
Danforlh, attracted by the great agricultural re-
sources of Illinois, came to Woodford County, in
March, and purchasing 160 acres of raw prairie
land in MinonkTownshipcourageously began its cul-
tivation. In farming,asin all other pursuits.there are
many obstacles to be contended with, but patience
andpcrseveranceare usually rewarded,and after thir-
teen years of successful labor our subject, who had
in the interim improved his land and erected a
good set of buildings, disposed of his property at
an advantage and engaged in the drug business in
Minonk. He continued thus occupied until 1879
when, in partnership with a nephew, Charles R.
Danforlh, he succeeded A. G. Danforth & Co., in
the banking business under the firm name of C. R.
Danforlh & Co., and the}' have since conducted a
general banking business, their bank being recog-
nized as one of the safest and most reliable in the

count}-. Onr subject, however, has retired from
the active cares of business and lives a quiet and
happy life in his pleasant home in Minonk, occa-
sionally re-visiting the scenes of his early life in
New England.

The marriage of Mr. Danforth with Miss Hannah
Rowe, a native of Guilford, N. H., was solemnized
in that place in 1 849. Airs. Danforth's father, Ben-
jamin Rowe, was a native of Brentvvood, N. H.,
and was married there to Miss (Susannah Tuck)
also a native of Brentwood ; he followed farming
during his entire life in his native place and reared
a family of five children, who are all living except
one who died at the age of thirty-two years; the
mother died on the 24th of August, 1882, aged
eighty-seven years. The father died March 1st,
1884, aged nearly ninety-four.

Mr. Danforth is a fine representative of the self-
made men of this county, his property having
been acquired by his own efforts, the only legacy
ever devised him having been the small sum of
eighteen dollars, which can scarcely be called the
nucleus of his present competency. In his politi-
cal views our subject is a firm Republican, and
when a young man filled the local offices of his
township acceptably to all, but during his later
years has declined to accept all such honors. Re-
ligiously he is an esteemed member of the Baptist
Church, where he has held the office of Deacon
most of the time since coming to Illinois, and of
which he is one of the original founders, and has
since been prominently identified with its success,
always contributing generously to its support.

(I ESSE HAMMERS was a distinguished and
prominent pioneer of Woodford County,
and not only witnessed almost its entire
growth, but was instrumental in bringing
about its present wealth and high standing. He
was a man of enterprise and keen foresight, and in
him this section of the country found one of its
most enlightened and public-spirited citizens, who
had a hand in all things that in any way benefited

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

253

his township or county. He was one of the lead-
ing agriculturists here, possessing more than or-
dinary practicality and skill in his vocation, and
was the owner of one of the finest and best-ap-
pointed farms in Cazenovia Township, a model in
nil respects.

Our subject was born in Fayette County, Pa.,
May 7, 1804, a son of Joseph and Elizabeth
(Manna) Hammers. Amid the pleasant scenes of
his birth he grew to a ruggei' manhood, continuing
to make his home there till 1835, when in the
prime and vigor of life he made his way to Illi-
nois, and casting his lot with the hardy, courage-
ous pioneers of Woodford County, became an
early settler of Cazenovia Township, and from that
day till the day of his death was an honored resi-
dent here. He entered a tract of wild land from
the Government, located on section 32, and imme-
diately began its improvement. His first work was
to erect a log house and a double log barn, and
then he had to prepare his land for tillage. After
years of persistent, patient toil he brought it into
a fine condition, and erected a commodious, con-
veniently-arranged set of frame buildings in place
of the first rude structures that we have mentioned.

Mr. Hammers was twice married. The wife of
his early manhood was Eleanor Buckingham, a
a daughter of Isaac and Sarah (Jones) Bucking-
ham. She was a thoroughly good woman, and de-
voted her life to his interests. Her death occurred
Feb. 14, 1850. The maiden name of the second
wife of our subject, a woman of great worth and
amiability, was Ruah (Garrison) Buckingham, who
was the widow of Morgan Buckingham. She was
united in marriage with Mr. Hammers May 4,
1851, and during the remaining years of their
wedded life, was his faithful companion, trusted
friend, and devoted helpmate.

Mr. Hammers was a wise, just, and able man,
and in his death, Sept. 3, 1881, Woodford County
was deprived of the counsel and presence of one
of her best citizens, who for nearly half a century
made its interests his own. He was one of the first
members of the County Agricultural Society, as-
sisting in its organization, and, as its first Presi-
dent, was largely instrumental in making it a
success, a power of good, and for disseminating

useful knowledge among the farmers and stock-
raisers of this part of Illinois, and thus raising the
standard of agriculture. He took a conspicuous
part in securing the passage of the Tonica and Peters-
burg Railway, was one of the stockholders and
Vice-president of the Company, and at the meet-
ing of the Directors to commence work on the road-
bed, in the absence of the President of the road,
he threw the first shovelful of dirt. He was a man
of high religious principles, and one of the leading
members of the Baptist Church.

R. JOHN Q. ADAMS. The subject of
this notice needs little introduction to the
people of Woodford County, as he has
been a resident of this part of the State
for more than thirty years. After a long and
prosperous career as a physician and surgeon, he
retired from active practice, and is now taking life
easy, in the enjoyment of the accumulations of
former years of close application to his profession.
He is one of the prominent and well-to-do citizens
of El Paso, and Vice-president of its National
Bank, in the founding of which he was largely in-
strumental, and since its organization has been one
of its most trusted officials. He is the owner of 105
acres of choice land within the corporate lines of
El Paso, besides a well improved farm.

The history of Dr. Adams indicates that he is
essentially a self-made man, one who was thrown
upon his own resources at an early age and
has fought his own way unaided up to success.
He came to Illinois in 1855 and to El Paso ten
years later. Possessed of an excellent constitution
and robust frame, his uniformly good health has
been a valuable accessory to his mental attain-
ments. Upon landing in Illinois, he first settled at
Washington, in Tazewell Count3 r , where he fol-
lowed his profession successfully ten years, and
prior to going there secured a tract of land, which
he improved and which became of considerable
value. He believed, however, that in Woodford
County there would be a wider field for his ambi-

254

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

tion. Here, as before, he soon built up a success-
ful business as a physician and invested his capital
in real estate, at the same time superintending tlie
operations of a farm. He acquired a reputation as
a man prompt to meet his obligations, and soon
became prominent in financial circles, so that his
importance began to be felt in all the channels of
trade, while at the same time he gained precedence
in social, religious and political circles.

Our subject was born near Cadiz, in Harrison
County, Ohio, Feb. 18, 1818, and when but a
youth was deprived by death of a father's counsel
and assistance. In a will left by the latter at his
death, it was stipulated that John Quincy was to
remain with his mother on the farm until reaching
his majority. The youth, however, was ambitious
for an education, and finally, after considerable so-
licitation, was given his time by his mother, and
htf set about in earnest the achievement of his
wishes. After leaving the primary school he en-
tered Franklin College and about that time had re-
solved to take up the study of medicine. . He
taught and studied alternately, and finally began
reading medicine under the instruction of Dr. A. G.
Osborne. Later he entered Willoughby (Ohio;
Medical College, and was graduated that same
year, 1847, shortly prior to the time the school
was divided, a part of it being removed to Cleve-
land and the remainder to Columbus.

Dr. Adams commenced the practice of his pro-
fession in Median icsburg,Carroll Count}', afterward
at Van Wert, Ohio. He was there associated with Dr.
Bolnnd, and after coming to Illinois practiced at
Washington, ten years alone then entered into a
partnership with Dr. Lamb, formerly of Woodford
County and now deceased. This branch of the
Adams family is of Scotch-Irish blood; and Will-
iam Adams, the father of our subject, was born in
County Tyrone, Ireland, where he was partly
reared, and then, with more than the ordinary am-
bition and courage of youth, set out alone for
America in the early part of the present century.
He made the voyage on a sailing vessel and was
sixteen weeks on the ocean. lie located first in
Washington County, Pa., where he remained until
becoming of age and where he was married to Miss
Mary Welch. This lady was of birth and ancestry

similar to his own, and after their marriage they
began farming in a small way in Washington
County, Pa. They remained there until after the
birth of a part of their family, then removed into
tlie wilderness of Harrison County, Ohio. They
had very little means, and Mr. Adams worked on
a canal boat until earning enough money to enter
160 acres of Government land. This was heavily
timbered, but with the aid of his wife and children,
he put up his cabin and began to clear his ground
from the timber. They endured all the hardships
and privations incident to the time and place, but
their industry and perseverance have met with their
reward, and they have succeeded in building up a
comfortable home.

During the first settlement of the Adams family
in Ohio, a wagon was an object of great curiosity
and something not often seen. Mr. Adams be-
came owner of one of the first vehicles of this kind
that was brought into that section. Jt was a com-
mon occurrence for the early settlers of Harrison
County to travel on pack horses to Pennsylvania,
a distance of seventy-five miles, after salt, which
was then a valuable commodity. The old farm is
still in the possession of the grandchildren of the
old pioneer. William Adams departed tliis life in
August, 1835, at the age of sixty-five years. He
was one of the pillars of the Presbyterian Church
in Harrison County, Ohio, and always actively in-
terested in its prosperity. He was assisted in his
religious labors by his faithful and conscientious
wife, who survived him until 1 855, dying at the
age of seventy-five.

Our subject was the youngest son of his parents
and is the only surviving member of a family con-
sisting of seven daughters and four sons. Two of
the daughters died young; the other children all
lived to be married, and the oldest attained the
age of over eighty years. The Doctor was first
married near bis old home in Cadiz, Ohio, March
2, 1847, to Miss Chelnissa D. Cassell. This lady
was a native of Mary land, as likewise were her par-
ents. Her father, Jacob Cassell, was of German
descent and spoke the language of the Fatherland
fluently. He followed farming, and was married
in his native State to a Miss Devilbiss. After a
few years spent in their native State, they removed

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

255

to Harrison County, Ohio, locating on a farm in
the vicinity of Cadiz, and there Mr. and Mrs. Cas-
sell spent the remainder of their lives, dying at
the ages of eighty-one and sixty years respectively.
Both were active members of the Methodist
Churcb.

Mrs. Adams was the only daughter in a family
of four, and by her* marriage with our subject be-
came the mother of nine children, one of whom,
John Quincy, Jr., the second child, is now de-
ceased, having died unmarried at the age of thirty
years; he was for some time successfully engaged in
the drug business at El Paso. Jacob C. is a phy-
sician and surgeon of Gridley, McLean Co., 111.;
he was graduated from Cincinnati (Ohio) Medical
College and married Miss Lois Chatbourne. Chel-
nissa V. is the wife of Charles W. McCoy, a real
estate dealer of Wichita, Kan.; Mary Elizabeth is
the wife of C. S. Hoagland, now deceased, who
during his lifetime was a stockholder in and travel-
ing agent for the Peru Plow and Implement Com-
pany; his widow and familj- reside in Council
Bluffs, Iowa. Alice M. is the wife of James Rogers,
a real estate dealer of Wichita, Kan.; Melvin A. is
a farmer by occupation and makes his home with
his parents; Maria M. is the wife of T. 8.
McCoy, a civil engineer of Wichita, Kan.; Martha;
Luella is at home; Charles G. was graduated
from the dental college in Chicago and is at pres-
ent at home with his father. The mother of these
children passed away March 3, 1887, at the age
of sixty-four years. In early life she was identified
with the Methodist Church, but later having ex-
perienced a change in her religions views, joined
the Presbyterian Church.

Dr. Adams contracted a second marriage in
Nov. 29, 1888, with Mrs. Mary (Tyire) Dorward,
daughter of David and Mary (Salmond) Tyire,
who were natives of Scotland, where they spent
their last days and where their daughter Mary was
born, Aug. 2, 1827, in Forfarshire. The mother
passed away prior to the decease of her husband
and the latter lived to be eighty-three years of age.
Miss Mary was first married in her native shire to
John Dorward, whose birthplace was not far from
that of her own. Soon after their marriage the
young people set out for America on a sailing ves-

sel, and after a voyage of nine weeks landed in New
York City. Theuce they made their way directly
westward, landing in!Tazewell County, this State,
and later'came to Wood ford County^, and located on
a farm near El Paso. Mr. Dorward here engaged
industriously in agricultural pursuits and died in
1871 at the age of forty years. There had been
born to them four children, the eldest of whom, a
son, Peter, is married and farming in the vicinity
of Indianola, Neb.; Charlotte is married to Will-
Ham North and lives on a farm near El Paso, this
county; William N. and John L. are dentists lo-
cated in Omaha, Neb.; the former is married.

Dr. and Mrs. Adams are prominently connected
with the Presbyterian Church, in which our
subject has been an Elder for the long period of
forty years, and to which he has contributed liber-
ally. Politically he is an active Republican and
has represented his ward in the City Council. A
man liberal and public-spirited, he has always taken
a warm interest in the success and prosperity of
his adopted county and has contributed his full
quota toward this end.

NDREW JOHNSON. Panola Township
has among her citizens many intelligent,

'j IB enterprising and business-like men who are
actively engaged in carrying on her great
farming and stock-raising interests, of whom, we
may venture to say, not one is more worthy of
representation in this BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM than
this gentleman. He has a large farm on section
31, that is considered one of the best in this locality
on account of its extensive improvements, fine
buildings, and ample conveniences for carrying on
agriculture to its best advantage.

Mr. Johnson was born in Hanover, Germany,
Dec. 10, 1827. When he was about three years
old his father's death occurred, shortly after that of
his mother. Thus sadly bereft at a tender age of
the loving care of his parents, the poor little orphan
was thrown on the cold charity of strangers, and
life went pretty hard with him during his childhood

256

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

and youth. He was reared to farm labor, and
when quite young had to seek work to earn his
own living. He grew to a stout, self-helpful man-
hood, and in the summer of 1853, wisely determin-
ing to better his condition, he emigrated to the
United States, taking passage in a sailing vessel at
Bremen, and after a voyage of seven weeks landed
in New York City, a stranger in a strange land.
He hastened to Illinois and was located in Tazewell
County the ensuing two years, working as a farm
hand, and for ashorttime on the railway. April 14,
1859, he took an important step toward providing
himself with the comforts of a home, by his mar-
riage at that date with Miss Mary Gibson, a native
of Jo Daviess County, 111. Nine children have
been born to thorn, seven of whom are living, as
follows: Melinda, now Mrs. Cotton, of El Paso;
George, a resident of this county; Isaac, a resident
of this county; Sarah, residing in this county, is
the widow of James Coverly; Tina died July 19,
1889; Charles and Arthur, who are living at home
with their parents.

Mr. Johnson settled on his present farm in the
winter of 1868, and has made his home here since.
At that time it comprised 113 acres of wild prairie
land, on which not a furrow had been turned, or
any attempt made to improve it. It was only by
years of sturdy, unremitting toil and excellent
management on his part, that it has become to-day
one of the richest and most highly improved farms
in this section of the county. Its bounds have
been extended until it embraces nearly 300 acres
of highly cultivated soil and substantial and com-
modious buildings have been erected, and every-
thing provided to lighten labor and make it an
attractive place.

Mr. Johnson and his family are people of good
social standing in this community, and their home
is the center of an agreeable hospitality, where
every guest is made to feel at ease by the true
politeness of the host and hostess. Mr. Johnson is
in every sense of the word a self-made man, as he
came to this country without means, and has ac-
quired a handsome competence by the exercise of
those traits that mark him as a man of more than
ordinary push and foresight, endowed with ex-
cellent powers of calculation and discrimination.

Withal, he is a just and honest man, and his gains
have never been obtained by unfair dealings, or by
cheating another of his du". It is not to be won-
dered at, therefore, that all men have confidence in
him and accept his word as a bond. Religiously,
he is in sympathy with the doctrines of the Luth-
eran Church; politically, he affiliates with the
Democrats. He has done the township a good
service as School Director.

eAPTAIN WILLIAM E. K RATER is a fine
representative of the soldier element, that
has been such an important factor in pro-
moting the various industries of our country, and
lias contributed to its material prosperity in many
ways. Our subject was a gallant soldier in the
late Civil War, in which, while winning an honor-
able military record, he sacrificed health and his
excellent prospects of a prosperous career in busi-
ness. For several years after leaving the army he
carried on farming operations in Woodford Count}',
in Cazenoviaand Linn townships.quitesucce-sfully,
till his failing health required him to give up all
active business. In the spring of 1884 he re-
moved to Low Point, where he has since Jived in
retirement in his comfortable home. For the past
four years he has been entirely helpless, a physical
wreck of his former self. But he bears his afflic-
tion with the patient heroism of a true soldier,
and his mind being as bright and active as ever,
he still interests himself in the affairs of the world,
and keeps himself well-posted as to passing events.
Captain Krater was born in Pine Grove, Schuyl-
kill Co., Pa., on the 29th of September, 1827. His
father, Jacob Krater, was born in the same county
in the town of Friedenburg, Oct. 21, 1805, while his
father, Anson Krater, was a native of Germany,
and, so far as known, the only member of his fam-
ily to come to America. He married in the Father-
land, and after the birth of eight children he and
his wife brought their family to this country. They
located in Friedensburg, Pa., and he there taught
a German school for twenty-five years, passing the

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

257

rest of his life there. The father of our subject
was the only member of the family born on Ameri-
can soil, and he was the only son that reared a
family. He grew to man's estate in his native
county, and early learned the trade of a weaver and
dyer, which he followed for a few years, and then
rented land and turned his attention to farming.
In 1851 he came to Illinois and lived in Marshall
County till 1856, and then came to Woodford
County, and was prosperously engaged in farming
here for several years. He now lives in retire-
ment in Washburn. He has led a sober, industrious
life, guided by excellent principles, and is justly
held in regard by all who know him. The maiden
name of his worthy wife was Margaret Deitzler,
and she was born in Pine Grove, Pa. Her father,
Jacob Deitzler, was, it is thought, born in Ger-
many, and his death occurred in Pine Grove, Pa.
The following are the names of the seven children
born to the parents of our subject: William E.,
Mary A., (the wife of Dr. N. V. Maloney), John
II., Christiana, (wife of A. T. Norris), M. Eliza-
beth (wife of Frank St. Claire), Jacob A., Susan,
(wife of William Ball).

When our subject was a young boy his parents
moved to Lancaster County, Pa., and there he was
reared to a vigorous manhood, continuing to make
his home with his father and mother till his mar-
riage. He started out in life to make his own way
in the world very- early, as at the age of nine
years he was engaged in driving horses on the tow
path of the Schuylkill Navigation Canal. He was
promoted to do more responsible work, and at the
youthful age of fifteen commanded a boat. lie
continued to act in that capacity on the canal until
the year 1859. In that year he opened a hotel in
the town of Marietta, Lancaster County, which he
managed very profitably till 18(52. In that year
he laid aside all personal aims and ambitions, to
answer his country's call in the hour of her bitter-
est need, enlisting for nine months in Company II,
135th Pennsylvania Infantry, and was at once
commissioned 1st Lieutenant of his compaii}'. He
proved to be possessed of true soldierly qualities,
and three months later was promoted to the Cap-
taincy, and commanded his company from that
time till his discharge with his regiment. TJie

most important battle in which he took an active
part was that at Clmncellorsville. The hardships
and exposures of military life.were too much for
his naturally strong constitution, and never at any
time has he in any measure regained his health.
After his discharge the captain returned to Marietta
Pa., and remained there till the 1st of December,
1863, when he came to Woodford County and gave
his attention to farming in both Cazenovia and
Linn Townships till, as before stated, he was obliged
to retire to private life, and is now living at Low
Point.

Captain Krater was married Jan. 5, 1851, to
Catherine Nase, and she has been to him a true
and devoted wife, carefully looking after his com-
fort, and in the past lightened his labors as much
as possible. She is a sincere Christian, and she
and her children are consistent members of the
Presbyterian Church. She is, like her husband, a
native of Pennsylvania, born in Marietta, Lancas-
ter County, Dec. 16, 1828. Her father, Samuel
Nase, was born in the same county, while his father,
Adam Nase, was a native of England. He came
to America and settled in Lancaster County, Pa.,
and there died. Mrs. Krater's father was reared
and married in his native county, and there fol-
lowed for a few years the trade of a tanner, which he
had learned of his father. After marriage he en-
gaged in farming, and in 1851 came to Illinois,
and locating in Savanna, Carroll County, died
there. The maiden name of his wife was Cather-
ine Wise. She was born in Lebanon County, of
French parentage. She was left an orphan at a
very early age, and spent her last years in Lancas-
ter County. Pa. Mr. and Mrs. Krater have four
children Clara, Margaret, Mary Emma, and Will-
iam Nase.

Captain Krater, the true, brave hearted gentle-
man who has sacrificed so much for his country, is
well deserving a place in this BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM
of Woodford County, and it gives us great pleas-
ure to transcribe to these pages this short review
of his life. He has an intelligent, well-balanced
mind, and other qualities that have rendered him
a valued citizen and a desirable neighbor, and in
his domestic relations he is all that a considerate
husband and father can be. Well understanding

258

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

the value of learning, he has always taken a keen
interest in educational affairs, and has done his
township good serVice as a member of the School
Board for many years. For two terms he held the
office of Justice of the Peace, and discharged its
duties with characteristic dignity and fairness.
His interest in politics continues unabated. In
early years he was a Whig, and cast his first vote
for President, for Gen. Taylor. In 1860 he voted
for Abraham Lincoln, and has ever since stood
stanchly by the Republican party.

OHRISTIAN H. SCHERTZ. On section 5,
Metamora Township, two and one-half
miles north of the village, is a very de-
sirable farm of 200 acres of choice tillage and
pasture land, which is second to none in the
variety and extent of its improvements,, and is
the seat of as cozy and substantial a home as may
be found within the limits of Woodford County.
The fortunate possessor of this valuable property,
is the gentleman whose name is at the head of this
biographical review, and here he is prosperously
engaged in general farming and stock-raising, de-
riving a handsome income as the result of his well-
directed toil.

He is a native born citizen of the county, his
birth taking place in Worth Township, Nov. 22,
1844. His father, John Sehertz, a sturdy pioneer of
this part of Illinois, was born in France. He was
there reared and educated, and after attaining man-
hood he came to America. Landing at New Or-
leans, he made his way directly to Illinois by the
way of the Mississippi River, and then ascended
the Illinois River as far as Peoria, then a small
hamlet. He was in limited circumstances, and he
sought various kinds of employment by which to
earn a livelihood. About 1843 he came to Wood-
ford County, and buying a tract of wild, timbered
land in Worth Township, he became one of its
earl}' settlers. He devoted his time assiduously to
the improvement and cultivation of his land, and
in time developed a fine farm, on which he lived

until three or four years before his death, when he
sold it and moved to another farm of his in Linn
Township. He had, sometime before that, bought
a quarter section of wild prairie land, and subse-
quently eighty acres of improved land, and after
his removal to Linn he purchased another tract of
land comprising 240 acres of choice farming land.
His death occurred in his pleasant home in Linn
Township, in 1879, at a ripe old age. He was in
ever}' sense a self-made man, beginning life with
no adventitious aids of fortune or favor, but by
the sole heritage of a sound constitution, an active
disposition and a good capacity for practical labor,
he accumulated a goodly property. During his many
years residence in this county, which he helped to
develop, he won the respect and regard of all
about him by the strength of his sturdy character,
and by his kind and upright dealings. His good
wife, mother of our subject, departed this life on the
home farm in Worth Township. Her maiden name
was Magdalena Engel, and she came from her na-
tive France to America with her parents, John and
Magdalena Engel, pioneers of Woodford County.
Of the nine children born of her marriage seven
grew to maturity, as follows: Christian H., Cathe-
rina, Magdalena, Annie, John, Peter, Joseph F.
By another marriage the father of our subject had
one child who is still living, Jacob.

The subject of this sketch was born in the hum-
ble log house that his father erected on his Worth
homestead soon after it came into his possession.
He grew to man's estate in his native township,
and gained his education in its schools. He in-
herited sterling habits of thrift and industry from
his worthy parents, and as soon as large enough,
began to assist his father on the farm, continuing
to be an inmate of the parental household till he
was twenty-one. At that age he went to live on
land that belonged to his father in Linn Township,
and worked it on shares the ensuing five years.
At the expiration of that time he settled on the
farm where he now resides, which is pleasantly lo-
cated, as before stated, on section 5, Metamora
Township. It is amply supplied with an excellent
set of buildings, neatly kept and in good order, in-
cluding a large frame house, and a good sized
barn built in 1880, the latter being of a modern

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

26!

style of archi lecture, 52x36 feet, with 18 feet
posts and a stone basement.

Mr. Schertzand Miss Annie Gingrich were united
in marriage in 1869, and they now have Dve chil-
dren living, namely: Elvina, Lucinda, Annie, Ed-
ward and Susie. Mrs. Schertz is, like her husband,
a native of Woodford County, her birthplace be-
ing in Partridge Township. Her parents, Peter
and Magdalena (Naffcinger) Gingrich, were na-
tives, respectively, of Hesse-Darmstadt and of
France, and they were early settlers of Woodford
County.

As an honorable, fair-minded man, well en-
dowed mentally and physically, with a frank, warm
heart and an unsullied reputation, our subject is a
credit to the citizenship of his native county. He
is classed among its substantial farmers, whose prac-
tical skill in their calling has contributed to its
elevation. In politics, Mr. Scherz is a Republican.
Religiously, he and his amiable wife are members
of the Omish Church.

IFj^EN.JAMIN GROVE. The pioneers of the
country are fast passing away, but their
memories will be cherished long years after
a stone alone remains to tell the history of
their lives, and their earnest efforts to carve out a
home for themselves and their children. Among
those respected and esteemed by their younger
friends, as well as by the few remaining of the same
age, is the subject of this review, Benjamin Grove.
For many years he has beheld with the natural inter-
est of a worker, the many improvements which are
rapidly changing the face of the country, and which
he has assisted in bringing about. He now lives the
life of a retired farmer, while his sons attend to the
interests of the home place; but his existence is not
an inactive one, for his interests are as great and his
hands are as ready to do what they can as they
were forty years ago. Truly the life of an active
man is the ideal one, and when he comes to his
rest, " his labors do follow him."

Benjamin Grove is a native of Augusta County,

Va., and was born on the 28th of March, 1816.
His father, Simon Grove, was a native of Lancas-
ter County, Pa., but removed with his parents to
Augusta County, Va., and there made his home un-
til after his marriage with Miss Elizabeth Rinehart,
whose nativity was in Pennsylvania, while that of
her father was German. Simon Grove, after his
marriage emigrated to Harrison County, Ind., in
1816. He had heard of the prospects of the Great
West, and thought to build up a fortune there.
But after years of toil he removed to Woodford
County, 111. While a resident of Indiana he was
called upon to endure more than the usual trials
that await the pioneer. He signed a note for a
friend, and, as so often happens, was obliged to pay
the claim. To do this he had to sell his stock and
farming implements, and during a long, cold winter
his little boys had to carry wood on their -backs
from the forests in order to keep from freezing.
At last they broke a pair of calves, and were after-
ward enabled to haul their wood. Finally they se-
cured a team and wagon, and worked by the day
so as to pay their way and save for the future. In
1844, after their removal to Woodford County,
the father died, the mother surviving him until the
year 1858.

To Simon Grove and his wife there were born
twelve children, eleven of whom are living, namely :
Barhary, Jacob, Hannah, Mary Ann, Elizabeth,
Abraham, Henry, Susan, Isaac, Sarah and Benja-
min. Barbary first married Willis Scliaffer, a resi-
dent of Indiana, who died in this county in 1842.
To them were born three children. She after ivard
was united in marriage with Joseph Meek, a resi-
dent of tli is county, and a farmer of known ability
and resources. They have one child. Jacob mar-
ried Miss Leah Kindig,who resides in Davis County,
Mo. There he is engaged in farming and also
officiates as a minister in the Christian Church.
They have five children. Hannah married John
Taunton, a native of England, and a farmer near
El Paso. There have come to bless their home
two children. Mary Ann was united in marriage
with Andrew Page of this count3 r . Their home is
now in the far-off West, in Wyoming Territory,
where the husband and father administers to the
spiritual wants of the Christian Church, and assists

262

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

in the ^maintenance of his family by farming. One
sad fact recorded in their family history is the totil
blindess of one of their six children. This little girl
had one of her eyes injured accidentally, and in
the performing of an operation lost the sight of
both. Elizabeth became the wife of Thomas
Brownfield, who formerly resided in this county,
but now resides in Cooper Count}', Mo., where he
is engaged as a farmer. Seven children have been
born to them. Abraham first married a Miss
Brownfield, and some time after her death he se-
lected as his life partner Miss Thompson, with whom
he now lives in McLean County, 111. They have
two children, and the father is occupied as a farmer.
Henry chose as his wife Catherine Stein, a na-
tive of this county, and they became the parents
of three children. Their home is at present in
Kansas, where Mr. Grove is a tiller of the soil.
Susan was united in marriage with Lewis Hall,
who resides in Butler County, Kan., and they have
live children. Isaac was the husband of Sarah
Houks, a native of this county, but now deceased.
Isaac served in the late War, belonging to Corn-
pan}' G, 108th Regiment, Illinois Infantry. He was a
valiant soldier, and gave his life for his country, fall-
ing mortal ly wounded at Red River, Ark., during an
engagement there under General Banks. He left an
orphan child, a daughter, who lives with her grand-
parents at Washburn in this county. Sarah became
the wife of Charles Stein, a farmer of this county,
and they are the parents of three children.

The early life of Benjamin Grove has been par-
tially given ill connection with that of his father.
Suffice it to say with reference to his youth, that he
received a common-school education, which in the
years of few settlers and little money, was rude and
primitive, compared with the fine education re-
ceived by children of the present day. In the
course of time he established home ties of his own,
and his companion for many years afterward was
one who in her youth was Hannah Rinehart, of
German ancestry, and a native of Augusta County,
Va. She was born in 1816, and deported this
life in 1886. Of her union with our subject there
were born six children, four of whom survive to the
present, namely: Washington, William H., Elias
and Sarah. Washington married Mary Ddlen-

bnugh, of Germany, and they have five children,
William II. married Mary Ann Lindenfelser, a na-
tive of Tazewell County, III. Her ancestry was
German. They are the parents of two children;
Sarah remains at home; Elias married Lena Lin-
denfelser. and they reside with her father in Taze-
-yell County, on the old homestead. Nancy J. was
united in marriage with John Woodcock, and died
leaving two children.

Benjamin Grove has been very successful in at-
taining the comforts of life, and many of the lux-
uries. He can attribute this all to bis own unaided
efforts, and to the assistance of his noble helpmate.
He is now in the enjoyment of excellent physical
health,and though he has passed his three-scote years
and ten, bids fair to outlive many of the younger
generation. For so regular have been his habits,
and so free has he kept himself from all that injures
the system, that he can look for many years of com-
parative ease and comfort. He has a fine farm of
improved land, consisting of 180 acres of prairie
and forty acres of timber land. In politic'il affairs
he has been astrong Republican for a life-time, and
has held many local offices of prominence.

The ALBUM of Woodford County would be in-
complete without the portrait of so valuable a cit-
izen, so cherished a friend, so venerable a pioneer
as he whose biographical sketch is thus briefly
outlined. It is therefore with pleasure that we
present to our many readers a fine portrait of Mr.
Grove.

J~) ACOB MICHAEL is one of the rising, thrifty
young farmers of Woodford County, anct
! is located on one of the best 80 acre
' farms in all the county. Although young
in years, he is already financially well-to-do, and
looks forward to a prosperous and happy future.
He is a native of this county, and has therefore ex-
perienced the hardships and toil of pioneer life dur-
ing the entire period of his life. But now the
county has so changed its appearance that few
would recognize the former uncultivated, wet and

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

263

unbroken land, in that wbich is now in flue condi-
tion and under admirable tillage. Thus our subject
has commenced to enjoy the results of the toil on
the part of himself and his father. His farm is lo-
cated on section 22, in Panola Township, and our
subject moved upon it in the spring of 1889.

Jacob Michael was born Nov. 28, 1859, and is
the son of Philip and Anne Michael, both natives
of Germany. They emigrated to America some
time in the fifties, and coming to Woodford
County, settled upon their present farm, situated
two and one-half miles east of Secor, which has been
their home ever since. The father first purchased
eighty acres of land, which was covered with stumps
and brush, and there had never been a furrow
turned upon it. It was in a wild, primitive con-
dition, probably about as the Indians had left it.
Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Michael were the parents of
eight children, of whom five remain at the present
writing, namely: Margaret, Elizabeth, Mary A.,
Philip, and Jacob, our subject. They are mem hers
of the German Evangelical Church, and Mr. Mi-
chael has served as choir leader in the church for a
long time. Politically he supports the Republican
party, and votes their ticket, but has never held
any office of great importance, nor has he had any
political aspiration?. He has now reached the sev-
enty-second year of his age, while his wife is seventy
years old.

Our subject wns the youngest son of his parents,
and grew to manhood amid the primitive scenes of
a new country. His early education was obtained
in the common schools, and has been supplemented
by an extensive course of reading, and now he is
considered a well-read man, as he avails himself of
every opportunity to become informed upon sub-
jects of general importance. He was reared upon
a farm, and became an experienced master of the
details of farm life even before he attained his ma-
jority.

A few years since, Mr. Michael cast aside the
cares of bachelorhood and chose as his wife, Miss
Ann R. Boland, who has become the mother of one
child, a daughter, Doris. Mrs. Michael inherited
the farm on which she and her husband reside, from
her mother. Like his father, he is a Republican
in politics, and is even at this early date considered

a leader in political affairs in his native county.
His farm is well supplied with farm buildings, and
is valued at $70 per acre, while he is also the owner
of ten acres of land in Greene Township, making
ninety acres in all. He has a prosperous future
before him, and the ALBUM takes pleasure in pre-
dicting for him the successful fulfillment of the
many hopes doubtless cherished by himself and
his friends.

ACOB H. TJADEN is denominated one of
the best and most skilful farmers of Illinois.
He stands among the foremost men of that
calling in Woodford County, where, by un-
common capacity, energetic enterprise and shrewd
foresight, he has accumulated a fortune. An early
settler of Linn Township, he may rightly be con-
sidered one of its public benefactors, as it was
through Ijis example and influence that this large
body of land, much of which was so low and
swampy as to be considered unfit for cultivation,
was drained and reclaimed from its wild state, and
now constitutes one of the finest farming regions
in the State. Mr. Tjaden owns here one of the
largest and most substantially improved farms in
this section of the county, and here he and his
good wife live contentedly and happily, somewhat
retired from the active labors of life, in a beautiful
and orderly home.

Mr. Tjaden is a native of the province of Hano-
ver, Germany, June 17, 1817, the date of his birth
in that far-away country across the sea. His pa-
ternal grandfather, Ludwig Tjaden, and his father,
Heika Tjaden, were born in the same province, and
there their entire lives were passed. His father
served in the German army a few years, and after-
ward engaged in his farming operations. He was
a well-educated man and a practical farmer, and he
took pains to instruct his children in agriculture
as well as in books, and by early training they be-
came model farmers. This wise, able, prudent,
high]}' esteemed man departed this life in 1843,
leaving his community to mourn the loss of its
best citizen, and his family of a kind husband and

264

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

a wise, tender father. There were eleven children
born to him and his wife, of whom the following six
came to America: Jacob H., Theda, Mary, Ludwig,
Katherina and Reinhard.

Jacob, of whom we write, attended school from
the age of five years till he was fifteen, gaining in
the excellent schools of his native land a substantial
education. After leaving school he became of
great assistance to his father in carry ing on his farm
work, and remained an inmate of the parental
household till after his father's death. In 1857, in
the prime of a vigorous, manly manhood, he came
to America, having resolved to try life in this
country. He set sail from Bremen, and ten weeks
later landed in New Orleans, and from the Cres-
cent City made his way by the Mississippi and
Illinois rivers to Peoria, where he spent the winter.
In the following spring he came to this county,
and cpmmenced life here by renting land in Linn
Township. After the war he bought 160 acres of
land in Linn Township, and from time to time he
has invested his money in other land, till he now
owns 720 acres of as fine farming land as is to be
found anywhere in this region. When Mr. Tjaden
located here he found the greater part of the town-
ship so Io"v and flat that water stood on it almost
the year round, rendering it unfit for cultivation.
His keen, practiced e_ye saw that by drainage and
proper cultivation, it would make superior soil for
farming purposes, and he was the first to agitate
the subject of its complete drainage. The people
could with difficulty be brought to believe in the
possibility of its reclamation. But he set about
draining his land, and, having the law on his side,
compelled others to do the same with their land,
and in due course of time Linn Township was im-
proved to its present fine condition In 1888 Mr.
Tjaden erected a fine brick house, with all the con-
veniences, while it is neatly and tastefully fur-
nished, and in this retreat he and his wife are
enjoying the ample fortune that he has accumu-
lated, surrounded by their children, whom they
have reared to be useful and honored members of
society.

Mr. Tjaden and Miss Mana E. Hine, a native of
Hanover, were united in marriage in 1844, and they
have seven children living: Ileika, John, Mcnke.

Henry, Jacob, Ludwig and Hermon. The three
youngest were born in America. They have one
of the pleasantest and most attractive homes in
Linn Township, where every comfort is provided
for its inmates, and hospitality reigns supreme.

It will be seen in perusing this brief outline of
the life of our subject, that he is a man of more than
ordinary intelligence, thoughtfulness and discrimi-
nation, bringing a well-trained, practical mind to
bear on the problems of agriculture, with which, as
we have seen, he has so successfully coped. He
combines with an energetic, pushing disposition,
careful and methodical habits. His business trans-
actions, though shrewd and keen, and managed
with a view to profit, are always fair and perfectly
honest. In politics he is a stalwart Democrat, and
lends material aid to his party in this part of the
county. Religiously, both he and his estimable
wife are devoted members of the Lutheran Church,
and they may truly be said to live up to their pro-
fessions of Christianity.

eURTISS & EVANS, editors and proprietors
of the El Paso Journal, have conducted
this leading newspaper since February,
1889. It has exerted considerable influence since
ils establishment in 1863, and under the present
management has obtained a firmer foothold than it
ever before enjoyed. The paper is an eight-page,
six-column weekly, and enjoys a circulation of
about 1,400. Under the caption of the El Paso
Gazette, its first issue was submitted to the public
on the 1st of February, 1863. It has changed hands
several times, and while successful from the start,
its present proprietors have given to it a new in-
terest and impetus which is folly appreciated by the
people of this section. It has always been inde-
pendent in politics and closely devoted to the in-
terests of the people. In connection with the
publication of the paper is a well-equipped job of-
fice, which receives a liberal patronage from the
people in this part of the county.

George R. Curtiss was born in Galesburg, Knox

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

205

County, this State, Jan. 17, 1859, whence he was
taken by his parents when a mere child to Henry, in
Marshall County, later to Peoria and in 1864 to El
Paso. Here the father, Samuel Curtiss. who is rep-
resented elsewhere in this volume, established him-
self as a merchant tailor, to which business he has
since devoted his time and attention. George R., j
received a good education in the city schools, and I
when completing his studies, began his apprentice-
ship at the printer's trade in the office of the paper
of which he is now part owner. Subsequently he
worked on the Peoria Freeman, and afterward on
the Streator Times, and the National Heal Estate
Index, of Kansas City, and was manager in the
printing department of the latter, with which he
was connected for some time. Subsequently he re-
turned to the Journal office, and a year later asso-
ciated himself with his present partner as part
proprietor. He is a young man of correct habits
and great energy, and is enabled to put his expe-
rience to excellent use.

Mr. Curtiss was married on the 28th of August,
1889, to Miss Kittie McLafferty, of Hutchinson,
Kan., but formerly a resident of Woodford County,
in which county she was born and reared to wom-
anhood. She is the daughter of Joel and Sarah
(Swartout) McLafferty, pioneer settlers of Wood-
ford County. The father is deceased, and the
mother resides at Hutchinson, Kan., she having re-
moved to that place recently.

The following from the Hutchinson, Kan., News
will prove interesting to their many friends.

' An event not long expected to be sure by
Hutchinson young people, to whom the existence
of Illinois beaux was unknown, but nevertheless of
great importance to the high contracting parties, I
and of interest to our readers, took place at one of
the most beautiful and pleasant homes of the city,
last evening. It was nothing less than a double
wedding at the commodious residence of Mrs. S.
A. McLafferty, on Sherman street, east, wherein two
of her cultured daughters were wedded to promi-
nent gentlemen, from their previous home. At ex-
actly 8 o'clock the wedding march was sounded,
with Miss Adelaine Mathews at the piano. Rev.
A. F. Irwin, of the First Presbyterian Church,
took his place and in the most impressive manner

performed the ceremony which made Miss Helen
P. McLafferty the wife of Mr. Charles F. Hildreth,
of El Paso, III., and Miss Kalherine S. McLafferty
the wife of Mr. George R. Curtiss, of the same
place. Little Hazel Dorsey, of Chebanse, 111.,
niece of the brides, acted as bridesmaid, and Mas-
ter Roland Trott, of Kansas City, a cousin of the
brides, officiated as the grooms' best man. After
the brief ceremony a bounteous repast, most tempt-
ing and delicious, and all the more relished by the
newly made benedicts because largely prepared by
the delicate but practical hands of the fair young
wives, was served by their mother, assisted by their
sister, Miss Franc.

The wedding, while complete in all its appoint-
ments, was an exceedingly quiet affair, the guests
being limited to the relatives and three or four
special friends of this city. Among the former
were Mr. M. Dorsey, of Chebanse, 111., and wife
(one of the sisters) and their three children; Mrs.
Dr. S. E. Trott and son, Roland, of Kansas City,
Mo., and Mr. and Mrs. Cooley, of this city, the
two ladies last named, being sisters of Mrs. McLaf-
ferty.

A large number of expensive and beautiful pres-
ents were received, and just before taking carriages
for the 9:45 east bound Rock Island train, upon
which they departed for their future Illinois home,
they were fairly showered with congratulatory tel-
egrams from friends at a distance.

The parties of this important affair are of the
highest social and business standing. Mr. Hildreth
is a railroad man, being joint agent for the Illi-
nois Central and the Toledo, Peoria and Western
railroads at El Paso, 111., and Mr. Curtiss is editor
and publisher, of the El Paso Journal. Both are
spoken of in the most flattering terms by friends
in this city who have known them for many years.
They were attired, last evening, in the fashion
usually adopted by gentlemen on such occasions.

The brides looked, as brides are always expected
to look, both sweet and pretty, in light brown, tai-
lor-made traveling suits, exactly alike, point lace
and diamonds. They have only been residents of
Hutchinson a few months, coming some time after
their mother. Mrs. S. A. McLafferty, had established
herself in her present beautiful home. However,

266

PORl'RAIT A3JD BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

both have made hosts of friends among our best
people, and the social circles of Hutchinson regret
their loss and sincerely mourn their departure.

The News joins their other admirers and friends
in most sincere congratulations, and wishes both
them and theirs, long, happy and prosperous
lives."

Robert J. Evans, junior partner of the above
mentioned firm, was born in Panola Township, this
county, Aug. 22, 1863, and is the son of one of its
pioneer settlers, Robert J. Evans, Sr., who came to
this county with his wife and family, the former
of whom was in girlhood Miss Nancy Gregg.
Both had been reared and married in Greene County,
Pa., and lived there until after the birth of five
children and until 1855. Upon coming lo this
county they settled in Greene Township, but later
the father purchased a farm in Panola Township,
where he resided until the fall of 1887, then re-
moved to El Paso, where he and his estimable wife
are still living, retired from active labor and sur-
rounded by all the comforts of life. -Both are
members of the Baptist Church, in which Mr. Ev-
ans has been a Deacon for many years.

Robert J. Evans, Jr.. was reared upon the farm,
and trained to habits of industry, becoming famil-
iar with agricultural pursuits. He obtained his
rudimentary education in the common school, later
was a student of the High School at Normal, 111.,
and subsequently followed very successfully the
profession of a teacher until the spring of 1885.
Then starting out to see something of the world, he
halted at Emporia, Kan., where he was for some
time employed on the Democrat, and later was a
reporter for the Emporia Evening News. In Em-
poria he was married Jan. 15, 1889, to Miss Nellie
Rooke. This lady was born in London, England,
April 14, 1868, and came to America witli her par-
ents George and Ann (Harris) Rooke. about
1871. They lived for ten years in the State of
Connecticut, then decided to seek the great West,
and settled in Emporia where Mr. Rooke has since
conducted a hotel. Mrs. Evans received careful
home training and a good education, and remained
with her parents until hrr marriage. She is a
member of the Episcopal Church, while Mr. Evans
is a Baptist, religiously. The firm of Curtiss <fc

Evans, are rapidly establishing themselves in the
confidence and esteem of their fellow-citizens, from
whom the Journal receives a liberal support. It
is devoted to local interests and has become quite
indispensable to the people in this part of the
county.

EWIS J. JOHNSON is one of the principal
citizens of his native township (Partridge),
as, connected with its agricultural interests,
he is one of its leading farmers, and as a public
man he represents the township in the County
Board of Supervisors. He is managing the old
homestead where he was born, and of which he is
now the possessor, with very satisfactory results,
so as to be classed among the most substantial cit-
izens of the place.

Joseph K.Johnson, the father of our subject, was
born in Luzerne County, Pa., Jan. 10, 1800. His
father, John Johnson, is also supposed to have
been a native of Pennsylvania. The father of our
subject passed his early life in his native count}',
and when a young man went to Ohio, and having
previously learned the trade of a blacksmith, he
established himself at that in Hamilton Township,
Franklin County, residing there thus engaged till
1828. In thatyear he came to Illinois, the removal
hither being made with teams, one wagon being
drawn by four horses and the other by two horses.
The family brought their household goods, cooking
utensils and a tent, and when noon or night over-
took them they camped by the way and cooked
their meals. On his arrival in Illinois, Mr. Johnson
and his wife and children, stopped two 'months with
Mrs. Johnson's father on the Kickapoo, four miles
from the present site of Peoria, which was then
called Fort Clark. There was a fort there at the
time and thirteen dwellings, of which all but one
was built of logs. During that two months Mr.
Johnson explored the country, and finally selected
a claim in Tazewell County, ten miles southeast of
Peoria, and on his removal to that place became one
of the earliest settlers of that region. Two hewed

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

267

log cabins and twenty acres of land fenced and
broken, constituted the only improvements, and
after he had settled there he entered the land at the
land oflice in Springlield. He built a shop and
worked at bis trade seven years, and then sold, and
in 1835 came to what is now Partridge Township,
Woodford County, and cast in his lot with the few
pioneers that had preceded him to this then wild
and lonely country. He bought a tract of land or.
which there were no buildings, so he erected a log
cabin, into which his family moved and resided
there a number of years. He then purchased an-
other place on the same section, on which he built
up a comfortable home, of which he was an inmate
until in August, 1859, when he was removed by
the hand of death. During his life he occupied an
honorable place among the energetic, intelligent,
self-reliant, self-sacrificing pioneers of Woodford
County, and industriously aided them in its devel-
opment, and his name and memory will justly be
held in reverence by coming generations, as he was
one of the oldest settlers of Central Illinois. His
wife, to whom he was married in 1825, is distin-
guished as being one of the oldest settlers of Cen-
tral Illinois, now living. At the venerable age of
eighty-two years she enjoys good health, and her
mental faculties are unimpaired. She possesses a
bright mind, is a good talker, and relates with
vivacity many interesting incidents of pioneer life.
Her maiden name was Nancy Caldwell, and she
was born in Franklin County, Ohio, Feb. 25, 1807.
Her father, William Caldwell, was a native of Mary-
land, where his father, Patrick Caldwell, a native
of Scotland, had settled in Colonial times, and there
spent the remainder of his life. Mrs. Johnson's
father went to Ohio when a young man, and was
an earlv settler of Franklin County. He bought a
tract of land in the primeval forests, eight miles
from Columbus, and erected a log house, and in
that humble pioneer abode Mrs. Johnson was born.
He cleared quite a farm, on which he resided till
1827, and in that year he came to Illinois, and after
residing one year in Kickapoo, made a claim in
Greenland Township. Tazewell County, and became
one of the earliest pioneers to settle in that region,
and continued his residence there till death. The
maiden name of his wife was Elizabeth Brown, and

she was born in New Jersey, and died on the old
homestead in Tazewell County. She was a daugh-
ter of Greer Brown, a native and life-long resident
of New Jersey. He married Jane Campbell, and
they reared a large family. The mother of our sub-
ject lived with her parents till her marriage, and
was instructed in all the household duties and
accomplishments that were the necessary part of a
young girl's education in those early days, and for
some years after her marriage she spun and wove
all the cloth used in her family. She has four
children living: John, a resident of Partridge
Township; Alexander, a resident of Indian Terri-
tory; Ann, the wife of George L. Jones, of Part-
ridge Township; and our subject.

The latter, the youngest member of the family,
was born in Partridge Township, on the farm where
he now lives, Jan. 9, 1851. He was eight years of
age when the sad death of his father deprived him
of a father's care and wise guidance, lie remained
with his mother, and by her was well trained in the
duties of life and in all that goes to make an honor-
able man. He gleaned a good education in the
public schools, and as soon as large enough assisted
in the farm work, and with the exception of four
years, has always lived on the homestead. He early
displayed a special aptitude for agricultural pur-
suits, and has developed into a very skillful farmer.
His buildings arc neat and well arranged, his fields
are carefully tilled and yield abundant harvests,
and there is every evidence of the good order and
thrift which show that a thoroughly methodical,
practical man has charge of affairs.

In 1879, Mr. Johnson was united in marriage
with Miss Isabelle Snyder, and he thus happily
secured an amiable companion and a good help-
mate, one who is a true home-maker. She was, like
himself, born in Partridge Township, and is a
daughter of Isaac and Hannah (Leighton) Snyder.
For parental history see sketch of J. J. Snyder.
Mr. and Mrs. Johnson have three children: Will-
iam Isaac, Arthur and May.

Partridge Township is fortunate in its citizens,
who are wide-awake, thoughtful, far-sighted men,
who advance the public good while working for
private interests, and prominent among these is
our subject, a manly, straightforward, clear minded

268

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

young man. His fellow citizens, among whom his
entire life has been passed, regard him so favorably
that they have twice selected him to fill the respon-
sible office of Supervisor, to represent this township
on the County Board of Supervisors, electing him
first in 1888, and re-electing him in 1889. In pol-
itics he stands high in the councils of the Demo-
cratic party in this section of the county.

^,,,'DAM SMISER, a prominent and highly
>f(JV respected citizen of Palestine Township,
engaged in farming on section 33, is of
German birth. He was born in the prov-
ince of Byron, Germany, on the loth day of April,
1830, and is the only one of the family that ever
became a resident of the United States. He re-
ceived his education in his native land, and when
a j'oung man determined that he would try his for-
tune in America, where he believed better oppor-
tunities were furnished young men than the coun-
tries of the old world afforded. On leaving home he
went to Havre, France, where he embarked for
America and at length safely arrived in New York
City. He reached Illinois in 1854, locating in Chi-
cago, where he remained for a few months, and then
went to Tazewell County, where the succeeding
three years were spent. He began life in the new
world as a day laborer, following any employment
by which he might earn an honest dollar. In 1857
he became a resident of Wood ford County, where
he has since passed the remainder of his life. Ten
years later, with the earnings which he had accu-
mulated, he purchased a farm on section 33, Pales-
tine Township, where he still makes his home.

Mr. Smiser was married in Peoria, 111., the lady
of his choice being Miss Margaret Hutch, a native
of Rhine, Byron, Germany, who came to America
when twenty-two years of age. They became the
parents of six children, three sons and three
daughters: Mary, Adam, William. John, Eliza and
Phosbe, all of whom are married, except William,
and have left the parental roof. The mother was
called to her final rest on Nov. 19, 1870, her death

occurring at her home when forty-two years of age.
The second marriage of Mr. Smiser was with Mrs.
Udelwine Ridner (her maiden name was Moritz),
who was born and reared in Germany, where shb
married her first husband. At his death he left
three children, as follows: Thedonia, Charles and
Tilda. Mrs. Smiser is a member of the Lutheran
Church, and in politics Mr. Smiser is a Democrat.
He is numbered among the early settlers, and is
one of the self-made men of the county. He not
only began life in this country with no capital, but
on reaching Chicago was $5 in debt. He had de-
termined, however, to make for himself a home,
and with characteristic energy began searching for
employment. He worked for some time as a day
laborer, but from that humble position has risen to
one of affluence. To his own efforts may be attributed
his entire success. His boundless energy and reso-
lute will have overcome all disadvantages and ad-
versities, and he is now one of the well-to-do
farmers of the community in which he has so long
made his home. His J'arm comprises 160 acres.
Aside from his business he has found time to aid
in the promotion of public enterprises, and has
given his support to those interests which he be-
lieves to be for the good of the community. A
worthy and valued citizen and earl}- settler, he well
deserves a representation in the permanent history
of his adopted county.

eORNELIUS D. BANTA was one of the
earliest pioneers of Woodford County, and
was for many years actively identified with
its extensive farming interests, having developed
and improved one of its finest farms, pleasantly
located a half mile northwest of Metamora. He
came to this county in the very earliest days of its
settlement while it was still in a state of nature, the
few pioneers who had preceded him having made
but little impression on the wild prairies, forests
and timber openings, nor had they brought about
any considerable degree of civilization. It was his
good fortune, therefore, to witness the entire growth

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

269

of the county to its present rank and importance as
one of the leading counties in this part of the State.
His memory will be held in reverence for his work
as a pioneer in developing the rich agricultural
resources of this region, and thus contributing to
its mateiial welfare.

Mrs. Elizabeth Banta, widow of the late Cor-
nelius D. Banta, is a native of Ohio, born seven
miles from the town of Circleville. She comes of
an old Pennsylvania f ami by. Her father, Jacob
Strawser, was born near Ilarrisburg, that Stale, and
his father, John Strawser, was also a native of the
Keystone State, of which his father, great-grand-
father of subject, is supposed to have been a native.
Mrs. Banta's grandfather removed from his
Pennsylvania home to Ohio, and was an earl}'
settler of Pickaway County. He bought an ex-
tensive tract of land near Delphi, became' very
prosperous, and besides developing a large farm,
gave each of his seven children 160 acres of
improved land. He spent the remainder ot' his
life on his Ohio homestead, where his wife also
died. Mrs. Banta's father was a small boy when
his parents moved to Ohio, and he was there reared
and married. He inherited the old homestead, and
lived on it till 1849; then selling it, he came to
Illinois with his family by the way of the Ohio and
Mississippi rivers. He lived one year in Pike
County, and then taking up his residence in Adams
County, sickened soonafter his arrival and died. He
was a man of sterling worth, of much practical ability,
and one who was in every w&y a desirable cit-
izen. The maiden name of Mrs. Banta's mother
was Rebecca De Haven, and she was born in
Northumberland County, Pa. Her father, Peter
De Haven, was born in the same State, and dur-
ing some period in h'is life he removed to Ohio,
and was an early settler of Ross County, where he !
spent his last years. After her husband's death,
Mrs. Banta's mother bought a homestead of 160
acres, in Adams County, and resided there a few
years; then selling her property there, she moved
to Kansas, the removal being made with teams. She
lived a few years near Fort Scott, and then crossed
the plains and Rocky Mountains overland, and lo-
cated about twenty miles from Portland, Ore., whore
she died May 17. 1873. There were seven chil-

dren born of her marriage, Leanni, William, Eliza-
beth, Peter, John, Jacob, Svlvania Peter, Jacob
and Sylvania went to Oregon with her. Mrs.
Banta lived with her parents till her first marriage
in Ohio, in 1849, to Lewis T. Johnson. He was a
native of Vermont, and a son of Stephen N.
and Susan (Blair) Johnson, also natives of
the Green Mountain State. Mr. Johnson was
quite young when his parents moved from their
New England home to Ohio, where he was reared
to man's estate. In September, 1849, he came to
Illinois with his bride, and located in Pike County,
but one year later moved to Adams County. In
1853, ambitious to try life in the gold fields of Cal-
ifornia, he started for that region by the Panama
route, but the vessel on which he sailed was blown
up and he lost his life ere he reached his destina-
tion. His wife was thus left a widow with two
small children to care for, Lewis N. and William
M.;tbe latter of whom died Oct. 23, 1878. She
lived in Adams County till 1860, and in that year,
August 23, her marriage with Cornelius Bauta was
solemnized.

Mr. Banta was a native of Kentucky, born in
Mercer County, July 3, 1809. His father, Jacob
Banta, was a native of New Jersey, a? was his
grandfather, Albert Banta. The family originated
in Holland, and came to America in early colonial
times. The first one to cross the waters to this
country was Kpke Jacob Banta, a farmer of Harlin-
gen, P^ast Friesland, who embarked from Amster-
dam on an American-bound vessel, in 1659,
accompanied by his wife and five sons. He set-
tled at Bergen, now a part of Jersey, and his des-
cendants were citizens of New Jersey City, for
several generations. Albert Banta, the grandfather
of Cornelius, was one of the fifth generation, and
was born in Hackensack, N. J. He married Mag-
dalena Van Voorhes, a descendant of an old Dutch
family, and they joined the Dutch Reformed
Church, in which he served as deacon and elder.
In 1784, he sold the farm he had inherited, located
in Hackensack, N. J., and moving to Mercer
County, Ky., became one of its pioneers, settling
a mile from Harrodsburg, and there he and his
wife died in the fullness of time. Jacob Banta,
father of Cornelius, was born in Hackensack,

270

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

N. J., March 13, 1771, and was fourteen years old
when he accompanied his parents to Kentucky. He
married in that State Mary Banta, daughter of
David Banta, and having inherited his father's
farm near Harrodsburg. made his home on it till
1832. Coming to Illinois in that year, he bought
a tract of land near Washington, Tazewell County,
and was a resident there the ensuing few years.
After that he sold his property and bought a farm
about a mile northwest from town, which he made
his dwelling place until his death.

His son, Cornelius D., was reared amid the pion-
eer scenes of Kentucky, and in his youth learned
the trade of a wagon maker, which he followed in his
native State till 1832, when he came to Illinois, the
removal thither being made with teams. He settled
in that part of Tazewell County now included in
Wood ford County, and, in 1 833, made a claim to
land now included in the farm where his family-
resides, and when it came into the market, he went
to Springfield on horseback to enter it at the land
office. Another man wanted the same piece of
land, and Mr. Banta hearing that he intended
to enter it, started for Springfield in the evening,
and riding all night arrived there a short time
before his competitor, and so succeeded in secur-
ing a clear title to his land. He made it his home
for nearly half a century, and in that time evolved
a valuable farm from the wild prairies, placed its
243 acres under excellent cultivation, erected sub-
stantial frame buildings and otherwise greatly im-
proved it.

Mr. Banta was first united in marriage, in 1839, i
with Miss Elizabeth Stine, their wedding being sol-
emnized in Worth Township, this county. Of this
union, five children were born, three of whom are
living, viz. : George W., Charles D. and Cornelius J.
The wife was a daughter of George and Elizabeth
( De Haven) Stine, natives of Pennsylvania, and she
departed this life in 1859. Mr. Banta was after-
ward married, as before stated, to Elizabeth Stravv-
ser.

By the death of Mr. Banta, Nov. 28, 1878, the
township and county lost one of their best citizens,
a man of unswerving rectitude of character and
blameless life, who had always interested himself
in the welfare of his adopted home, and had done

all in his power to secure its highest interests. He
was hap|>3' in his domestic life, and his wife found
in him a tender husband, and his four sons, A. Lin-
coln, John L., Frank D., Archie D., found in him a
wise, indulgent father. Ella May, the only and
idolized daughter, was taken from her earthly
home when four years and five months old. Mr.
Banta was kiml and considerate in his dealings with
his neighbors, and they held him in high regard.
He was deeply interested in political matters, and
in his early years affiliated with the Democratic
party; but his sentiments with regard to the slavery
question not being in harmony with those of his
party, he joined the Republican ranks, and was
ever after a stanch supporter of the policy of that
party.

Mrs. Banta was an invaluable aid to her husband
in his work, and is now passing her declining years
on the old homestead with her children, enjoying
the competence that she helped to procure. She
is a woman of much native force of character, kind
in heart and manner, cheerfully giving assistance
where needed, and charitably inclined toward all.

A portrait of Cornelius D. Banta adds to the
value of the ALBUM, and will be treasured, not
only by those nearest and dearest to him, but by
the man}' who were his associates in ocial and
business circles, and who admired him for his estim-
able qualities of heart and mind.

I, 1 ACOB McCHESNEY. Among all the for-
eigners who have come to America in
search of a home, few have adapted them-
selves to their surroundings with greater
celerity, or proven to be better citizens than the
Scotch. They are notably thrifty, persevering, and
at the same time pleasant additions to the society
of a village or city. The McChesney family are
of Scotch origin, but many years have elapsed
since the first of that name crossed the Atlantic to
seek a home in the United States. The grandfather
of our subject died while yet in tiie prime of life.

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

271

his death occurring a few months prior to the birth
of his son, Lewis McChesney, father of our subject.

Lewis McChesney, the father of our subject,
grew to manhood in his native place, Rensselaer
County, N. Y., and was there united in the bonds
of matrimony with Mary A. Bulson, a native of
the same county. There he continued to reside
after his marriage, being occupied in farming, and
also for a time in the hotel business. He died
where all his life had been spent, when he
was only thirty-eight years of age, his death oc-
curring in April, 1851. His wife survives him
and makes her home with her son, Jacob, in this
county. f

To Lewis and Mary McChesney were born five
children, four living, whose names are here given:
Jacob, the eldest, is the subject of this, sketch;
Lewis H. is a resident of Kossuth County, Iowa;
Harmon now makes his home in Rockingham
County, Va,; John, the youngest, is a resident of
Roanoke, 111.

Jacob McChesney was born in Rensselaer County,
N. Y., the date of his birth being March 18, 1835.
As above stated, he is the son of Lewis and Mary
McChesney. His early education was such as was
received by the youth of that day, and laid the
basis of his future success. After leaving school
he learned the trade of a carpenter. He had taken
a preparatory course of training and study at the
Academy in North Adams. Mass., and was antici-
pating a course at Williams' College, but circum-
stances prevented him from entering, and instead
of being a pupil, he himself became a teacher, his
education having fitted him for a successful teacher
and instructor. He also engaged in his trade.

One of the most important events in the life of
our subject was his marriage which occurred
Nov. 9, 1853, when he was united with Elsie L.
Davison. She was a native of Grafton, Rensselaer
County, as was her husband, and was the daughter
of J. M. Davison, who resides in Eureka, 111. He
came to the West in 1855 and settled in Clayton
Township, where he followed the occupation of
farming, and at present is the owner of 140 acres
of finely cultivated land.

Mr. and Mrs. McChesney have been blessed with
tix children, whose names are herewith recorded:

Louisa E.. who is the wife of William S. Barnett,
of Kansas City, Mo.; Cassius M., a resident of
Clayton Township; Horace J. also a resident of
Clayton Township; Edward D., who yet lives at
home; Mary E. and Sarah L. who are also under
the parental roof.

Politically, Mr. McChesney is a Democrat, and
religiously, he and his family are members of the
Baptist Church. He has officiated as Town Clerk,
and is now Justice of the Peace. He is a Royal Arch
Mason, and for many years has been Master of the
Robert Morris Lodge, No. 247, A. F. & A. M., at
Minonk, having been a member of the Masonic
fraternity since the year 1857.

During the years spent in this county, Mr. Mc-
Chesney and his family have endeared themselves
to all the people who have met them, and wherever
their names are mentioned it is always with the
respect that is due those who have labored assidu-
ously and patiently to provide for old age, and who
have not neglected that which is far more precious
than fortune, more to be sought after than pearls or
royal diadem the imperishable lustre of a good
name.

ENRY EFT came to Illinois in 1869 a com
paratively poor man. He did not at first
invest in land, but for two years engaged
! in farming as a renter, south of El Paso. He
then came to Panola Township, and bought a tract
of land on section 26 that is now included in his
present farm, and since that date he has been num-
bered among the practical, sagacious farmers and
stock-raisers of this section of Woodford County,
who have contributed to its advancement. His land
when it came into his possession Cthe second pur-
chase of 160 acres), was a barren tract of wet,
swampy prairie, and seemed hardly fit for cultiva-
vation. But he shrewdly saw its possibilities,
and by patient labor carefully drained it and
prepared it for tillage, and it proved to be very
fertile, and to-day yields him bounteous harvests
in return for the care and money he has spent on
its improvement. To his original 100 acres he has

272

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

added more land, and now has a valuable farm of
3 tO acres of finely cultivated land, provided with
ample buildings, and all necessary improvements.

Mr. Eft comes of good old New Jerse}' stock,
and is himself a native of that State, born in Salem
County, Nov. 29, 1831, a son of John and Ann
(Hanthorn) Eft, natives of New Jersey, the Eft
family being among the early settlers of that
State. His father is now living in Salem County,
and although he has attained the remarkable age of
ninety-four years, and has been a hard worker all
liis life, he is still hale and hearty. He enjoys
the respect and veneration of all about him, as his
long life has been well spent, and he has always
walked in the path of honesty and uprightness.

Our subject was reared to man's estate amid the
pleasant scenes of his birthplace. His educational
advantages were not such as are enjoyed by the
youth of to-day, but he made the best of them,
being desirous of securing a good knowledge of
books, and in early life he attended the subscrip-
tion schools, and after the schools were made pub-
lic he was a student in them for awhile, but the
most of his learning he has acquired without the
assistance of instructors, as he has always been fond
of reading, and has been a close observer of men
and events. March 30, 1854, he was united in
marriage to Miss Elizabeth Haines, whom he had
chosen to walk by his side to assist him in his life-
work, and aid him in building up a home. She is
a native of the same county as himself, and a
daughter of John and Harriet Haines, also natives
of New Jersey. Of the nine children that have
blessed the union of our subject and his wife, six
are living. John. William, Ann (wife of William
Kingdom), Joseph, George, Elizabeth. Those de-
ceased are Charles, Frederic, and one that died in
infancy.

After his marringo Mr. Eft farmed on i en led
land in New Jersey a number of years, and Ihen
came, as we have before mentioned to Illinois in
1869. We have seen that he has been very much
prospered since locating in Panola, and besides in-
creasing the size of his farm, having it well-drained
and putting it under admirable tillage, he has
erected substantial buildings and a fine windmill of
the Eureka make. Since he settled here Panola

Township has greatly improved. There were prac-
tically no roads here at the time of his arrival, and
there were many sloughs and rough places to cross,
and the streams were some of them unbridged.
Since then great changes have been wrought, waste
pieces of prairie have been transformed into good
farms, other farms have been improved, and in
many cases a better class of buildings have been
erected, and throughout the township a general air
of neatness, thrift and prosperity prevails. Our
subject may be proud of the fact that he has had a
hand in bringing about this state of affairs. He
and his wife have shared together the hardships
necessitated by their pioneer labors, and now,
while yet in life's prime, are together enjoying the
fruits of their early toils.

A self-made and a self-educated man, possessing
in a high degree thosa attributes that win success
in any walk in life, and noted for his integrity in
business, our subject occupies an important place
in the community. Public spirited and liberal he
contributes to its advancement in every direction,
favoring all schemes for the improvement of town-
ship or county, and giving of his means to support
religious institutions, although not a church mem-
ber. He has been School Director, and has thus
furthered the cause of local education. In politics he
belongs to the old Jacksonian Democracy.

fc ARTIN HERR occupies a leading position
among the intelligent and enlightened citi-
zens of Panola Township, who are actively
engaged in farming and stock-raising
within its borders, and are fast extending its great
agricultural interests. He is a native of the Ger-
mnn province Alsace, which, at the time of his
birth, March 7, 1847, was under Ihe dominion of
France. He is a son of a former well-known and
honored resident of Wood ford County, the late
Michael Herr and his wife Christina Herr, who
were also natives of Alsace. In the spring of 1854
they emigrated to the United States with their fam-
ily, taking passage in a sail vessel, and landing in

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

273

New York on the first day of March. The family
proceeded directly to Ohio, and for three years
ain.de their home in Holmes County, that State.
They then came to Woodford County, and the
father for a time rented a farm in Greene Town-
ship, and finally bought a place on section 18, Panola
Township, on which he settled in 1864, and there
dwelt in peace and happiness, plenty and comfort,
till the day of his death in the month of February
in 1878. The mother is now a resident of Piper
City, where she is held in general respect by all
who know her. for her worthy attributes. She hns
attained the venerable age of eighty years. Of
her pleasant wedded life three children were born:
Michael, living in Ford County; Salome, the wife
of Philip Scheer, of Clay County, Neb., and our
subject. The father was one of the early settlers
of Panola Township, and while redeeming a farm
from the wild prairies he and his wife had many
hardships to undergo. He began life a poor man,
but left a valuable estate, having been much pros-
pered in his life-work. In his death the count}'
lost one of her best citizens, and the Lutheran
Church one of its most zealous members, and the
Democratic party an earnest supporter.

He of whom this sketch is principally written, was
in his eleventh year when his parents brought him
to their pioneer liome in Woodford County. He
received a fair education In the local schools, and
a careful training at home that has made him a true,
manly man and a good citizen. From the time he
was fifteen years old till he attained his majority,
he had the management of his father's farm, and
though so young showed uncommon judgment and
capability, and under his care the farm was kept
in a good condition, and yielded abundant harvests
and a good income. After he gave up the charge
of the homestead he continued to make his home
there till he established one of his own. He settled
on his present farm in the spring of 1878, and busy
years of unremitting labor have followed, in which
he has wrought a great change. Many valuable
improvements have been made, and the 220 acres of
choice land now constitutes one of the best farms in
this locality, with soil well tilled and capable of
producing enormous crops, neat and substantial
buildings adorning the place, and everything that

could be desired to make a pleasant, comfortable
home. He also has a farm of 180 acres on section
27, also well improved.

Mr. Herr gratefully acknowledges his indebted-
ness to his wife, for her share in securing the hand-
some competence that they enjoy. They were
united in marriage Feb. 11, 1873, and by their
union they have eight children, namely: George
AV., Louis P.. Frederic F., Ellena, Bertha, Ella,
John M. and Albert H. Mrs. Herr's maiden name
was Lolotoo C. Dyke. She was a native of Ohio,
and a daughter of John C. and Ellen Dyke, natives
of England.

Mr. Herr and his wife an; very kind, pleasant,
hospitable people, taking an active interest in so-
ciety and are very much liked by the entire
community. Mr. Herr, although a good citizen, pos-
sessing public spirit, and desiring to aid in the im-
provement of his township or county, has refused
all public honors, excepting that he allowed himself
to be elected School Director. He takes an intel-
ligent view of the political questions of the day.
and sides with the Democratic party generally, al-
though in local matters he votes for the man, with-
out regard to his political antecedents. He has a
well-informed mind, as he is a constant reader
when not occupied in looking after his affairs.

HOMAS J. HURD, coming to Panola Town-
ship in 1866, has since that time been an
important factor in developing its great ag-
ricultural resources, and is to-day numbered among
its most deserving and prosperous farmers and
stock- raisers. He may well be classed as a pioneer
of this region, for his fine farm on section 25 is the
result of his pioneer labors in eliminating it from
a wild, swampy tract of prairie.

He is a native of Oswego County, N. Y., Aug.
30, 1833, being the date of his birth. He is the
only son of James and Sallie (Thompson) Ilurd,
natives of New York, and his father being dead,
his mother is now a welcome inmate of his house-
hold, and is spending her declining years sur-

274

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

rounded by every comfort that filial love can devise.
Our subject was reared to man's estate in his native
county, and he is mainly self-educated, his school
advantages not being such as the youth of to-day
enjoy, his attendance at school being limited mostly
to the short winter term, in schools where teachers
were somewhat deficient in learning themselves.
But our subject is naturally fond of reading, ant)
taking an intelligent interest in good literature, has
managed to keep himself well informed on all topics
of general discussion. When about seventeen
years old he began to learn the trade of a black-
smith, and worked for $5 a month and board till
he had acquired a thorough knowledge of the
trade, which he followed some six years. Since
then he has devoted himself to agriculture, hi
1866, accompanied by his family he emigrated to
to Illinois, to take advantage of the fine facilities
for farming offered by the rich soil of Woodford
County. Selecting Panola Township as a desirable
place of residence, he bought a quarter of section
25, on which he is still residing. Not a farrow
had been turned, and much of the land was low
and wet. It required an immense amount of pa-
tient and persevering labor to make it of any
value as a farm, but our subject was equal to the
task, and went to work with an indomitable will
and unflagging energy, and he may now point with
pride to what he has accomplished. It is to-day as
well improved and as well cultivated a farm as is to
be found in the neighborhood. It is supplied with
neat and substantial buildings, is carefully drained,
there being from 1,000 to 1,200 rods of tile laid
within its bounds, and is stocked with cattle of
good grades. Mr. Hurd is the proprietor of 400
acres of land in all, his homestead containing 280
acres, and he has 120 acres of choice farming land
north of El Paso.

The marriage of Mr. Hurd with Miss Julia
Stephens was solemnized Feb. 12, 1855, and of
their pleasant union four children have been born,
two of whom are living, Estella and Burton; those
deceased are James and Nettie. Mrs. Hurd is also
a native of Oswego County, N. Y., born Jan. 9,
1834, a daughter of Harlow and Betsey (Mandi-
val) Stephens. Her father was a native of New
Hampshire, and her mother of Rensselaer County,

N. Y., both being of English ancestry. Mrs. Hurd
was reared to womanhood in her native county,
and was there married. She was one of three chil-
dren born to her parents, of whom her sister An-
toinette is dead, and her brother Henry is a resi-
dent of Oswego Count)-, N. Y.

Mr. and Mrs. Hurd occupy a high social position
in this community, and enjoy an extensive ac-
quaintance, among whom they have many warm
friends, and their attractive home is the center of
that true hospitality that "welcomes the coining
and speeds the parting guest." Mr. Hurd is known
to be a man of unswerving rectitude of character,
and in him are conspicuous those honorable traits
that command universal esteem and respect. In
the twenty-three years that he has been a resident
of this locality, his public spirit has been evinced
on many occasions when he has afforded material
support to feasible schemes for improving the town-
ship or county. He has taken an active interest in
educational matters and has served as School Di-
rector, and in that capacity did what he could to
secure good schools for the children of this place.
In his political views, he is an intelligent advocate
of the Democratic party, but in local matters, he
votes for the m:in he considers best fitted for the
office, be he Democrat, Republican, or the repre-
sentative of an) r other party.

AMES RENDER came to Woodford County
nearly a quarter of a century ago, cast his
lot with its sturdj', enterprising farmers
and for several years engaged in agricultural
pursuits, finally locating in Panola Township, where
he developed a good farm, and has been so pros-
pered in his labors as to be able to retire on a com-
petence, and spend his declining years free from
the cares and toils of his early life, in the enjoyment
of every comfort that money can procure.

Mr. Render is a native of Yorkshire, England,
and was born Feb. 14, 1828, a son of William and
Ann Render, also natives of England. He was the
fourth son in the family, and when he was in his

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

275

fifth year he had the sad misfortune to lose his
mother, and when he was ten years old his father
died; and after that he had to care for himself, and [
had a hard struggle to get along. He thus early
became inured to the hardships and trials of life,
and became manly and self reliant far beyond his
years. His boyhood and the opening years of his
manhood were passed in his native land on a farm.
In 1851 he resolved to emigrate to the United
States to better his condition if possible, and he
took passage on a sail vessel at Liverpool, and
after an ocean voyage of nearly six weeks, landed
in New York City. He made his way to the State
of New Jersey, and the ensuing thirteen years he
fanred and worked by the day, prudently saving
up his earnings, and in 1865 came to Illinois to in-
vest his money in the rich farming lands of Wood-
ford County. He bought land in Palestine
Township, but did not reside on it very long, how-
ever, before his removal to Panola Township,
where he settled on section 24. He made his residence
there till 1883, and in that year removed to that
part of the same section where his present home
is. He owns a quarter of the section, which has
been improved into a good, exceedingly produc-
tive farm, on which are all the necessary buildings,
and it is supplied with machinery and all the con-
veniences for carrying on farming to the best ad-
vantage. M'\ Render has given up the supervision
of his farm, and from its rental derives a fine in-
come. He was $150 in debt when he came to
America, and besides had a family dependent upon
him for support. Notwithstanding these discour-
aging circumstances, he bravely faced the hard-
ships before him, and set to work with a good
will to mend his fortunes. His attempts were
crowned with success and aided by a helpful wife,
he has acquired a goodly amount of property by
the quiet force of persistent labor, directed by
sound common sense.

Mr. Render has twice entered the matrimonial
state. He was first wedded in England to Jane
Mitchell, who bore him three children, two of whom
arc living Ann, widow of Thomas Hustwaite, re-
siding in New Jersey, and Mary, wife of Benton
Ord; they live in Somerset County, N. Y. Our
subject was married to his present wife, formerly

Ann Coleman, Dec. 3, 1853, and to them have

come eight children, six of whom are living

John C., William J., Michael H., Jane (wife of
Walter Nethercott), Edward G. and Thomas J.
Mrs. Render was born in Ireland and reared in
Scotland. She emigrated to the United States in
1851, and made her home in New Jersey, where
she met and married our subject. She is a daugh-
ter of Michael and Catherine (McCormick) Cole-
man.

Mr. Render has been an interested spectator of
much of the improvement of the county, and not
only that but he has contributed his quota to its
advancement as a rich agricultural centre. A self-
made man, he Iws been prospered in his life career
and his course has been commendable, marked, as
it has been, by honest endeavor, hard toil, and in-
tegrity of word and act. He and his wife and
children are faithful members of the Catholic
Church, cheerfully contributing of their means to
its support, and their daily lives witness the sincer-
ity of their religious beliefs. Mr. Render is inde-
pendent in his political views, generally voting for
the man whom he considers the best qualified for
office irrespective of party. He has served Panola
Township as School Director several years, and lias
in every way endeavored to promote its highest in-
terests.

GRACE MAJOR, a native-born citizen of
i ; Woodford County, represents its farmino-

and stock growing interests in Panola
Township, where, on section 16, he has a
well-stocked and well-ordered farm, that is con-
sidered one of the best managed estates in the
neighborhood. Our subject, was born Aug. 1C,
1848, and was reared to manhood in Olio Town-
ship, of which his father was an early pioneer. He
comes of good stock, being of mingled French and
Irish blood, the paternal side of the house originn-
ting in sunny France, and the maternal ancestry
springing from the sod of the Emerald Isle. Sopie
of his progenitors were pioneers of Kentucky, and
it is thought that both of his parents, William and
Elizabeth (Dickinson) Major, were born in that

276

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

State. They came to Woodford County when
young people and were married here, and subse-
quently became early settlers of Olio Township,
and Mr. Major eliminated a farm from the wild
prairies and groves from that place. To him and
his wife were born in their pioneer home seven
children, four of whom are living, namely: Hor-
ace; Allen A., a resident of Livingston County;
Charles E., a resident of this county; Benjamin, a
resident of Forest, Livingston County.

Our subject received his education in the early
public schools of this county, and being of a
thoughtful mind, and having a liking for books, he
has acquired a good deal of knowledge since leaving
school, and can converse intelligently on all topics
of general interest. He was the oldest of the faru-
il}-, and had, consequently, to begin early in life to
assist his father in the pioneer task of clearing and
improving a farm, and thus gained much valuable
experience in his younger years that has been of
use to him since he began the pursuit of agricul-
ture on his own account, and has doubtless con-
tributed to his success as a farmer and stock raiser.
The most of his life has been passed in this county
of his birth, with the exception of three years spent
in Livingston County after his marriage. At the
expiration of that time be located on his present
farm in the spring of 1874. It comprises 160
acres of very productive farming land, whose
carefully tilled soil gives forth abundant harvests,
and the excellent set of buildings and neat sur-
roundings make it an attractive place. Our sub-
ject is to all intents and purposes a self-made man,
and in the accumulation of his property and the
building up of his home he has been materially as-
sisted by his wife, who lias been a true counselor
and helpmate since their marriage was consuma-
ted Oct. 5, 1869.

Mrs. Major's maiden name was Lucy A. Boyd, and
she was born in Christian County, Ky., June 1 t,
1849, to George and Eliza J. (Pierce) Boyd, like-
wise natives of Kentucky. Her paternal ancestors
were mostly Irish, while her maternal ancestors
were of English origin. Her maternal grandfather,
John Pierce, was a gallant soldier in the War of
1812. When Mrs. Major was about a year old her
parents came to Woodford^Cotmty, and became pio-

neers of Olio Township, her father, entering a tract
of wild land from the Government in that place.
His had but little means, and he and his wife and
family had to undergo many of the hardships and
privations incidental to pioneer life ;it that early
day, but by the aid of his faithful wife, he conquered
every obstacle, and now has a good farm, and a
comfortable home wherein he and his companion
can spend their declining years in peace. They are
exemplary members of the Christian Church, and
Mr. Boyd was well acquainted witli its illustrious
founder, the noted divine, Alexander Campbell.
Six of their nine children are living: Joshua, in Buf-
falo County, Neb. ; John M., in Panola Township;
Sarah V.,the wife of J. K. Hedges in Buffalo County,
Neb.. Susie, in this county; Leta B., the wifeof C. S.
Miller, in Panola Township; Lucy A., the wife of
our subject. The names of those dead are Alice.
Maria B., and Peter. The parents now reside near
Eureka, 111. Mr. arid Mrs. Major have two chil-
dren, Eva and Chasteen.

Our subject is a man of principle and sterling
habits, and his fellow-citizens find in him a good
neighbor and a stanch friend, who never hesitates
to grant a favor or to oblige another if it is in his
power. He and his wife are agreeable, social peo-
ple, and their hospitality is too well known to need
further mention. They are active in religious
work, being zealous members of the Christian
Chureh, and in their every-day life they carry out
its teachings. In politics, Mr. Major is a strong
Republican, supporting his party by voice and
vote whenever occasion offers.

f ,.l DAM STEPHENS, a prominent citizen of
ul. Montgomery Township, resides on a good

farm of 300 acres on section 14. He is
one of the most estimable men of the
township, and not only a prosperous fanner but a
popular man and good neighbor, who enjoys the
respect and confidence of the community, and has
served his township as Supervisor, in which posi-
tion he gave excellent satisfaction. Adarn Ste-
phens is a native of this township, having been

RESIDENCE'OF ADAM STEPHENS,SEC.M. MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP.

RESIDENCE OF RICHARD SPIRES , SEC. 24. Mi MONK TOWNSHIP.

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

'279

born on his father's farm on section 13, in the year
1839, on the 25th day of November. His father,
Lewis Stephens, a native of Highland County, Ohio,
was born in 1808 on the 28th of October, being
the son of a Virginia farmer, who was of German
ancestry but of Virginia parentage. Lewis was
reared and educated in Highland County, to which
place his parents had come a number of years
before from their native State of Virginia. The
parents purchased land on their arrival in High-
land Count}-, cleared it of the original forest,
erected good buildings and made a comfortable
home on which they resided until death. The
neighborhood in which they located was composed
almost exclusively of Quakers, who spoke nothing
but English, so that the Stephens were obliged to
learn to speak the English language, and not hav-
ing practice enough to keep up their German,
almost forgot that tongue, and the children grew
up in comparative ignorance of it.

In 1833 Lewis Stephens came to Illinois as a
young man, and resided some eighteen months on
the Kiekapoo River, thence removed to Mont-
gomery Township, this county, where he entered
forty acres of land on section 13. The land cost
$1.25 per acre, and to make payments he was
obliged to go to Springfield with the money. He
improved this land, making it his home, and it
became the place of his death. Before his earthly
career was closed, Aug. 13. 1872, he had accumu-
lated an estate consisting of about 400 acres of
land, the most of which was well cultivated and
otherwise improved. All of tin's land was secured
by purchase or entry from the Government, and
about 300 acres is yet remaining in the hands of
his children, most of it, however, belonging to our
subject.

Lewis Stephens was married to Miss Melinda
Houghman, a native of Highland Comity, Ohio,
were she was born April 8, 1808. Accompanying
her husband she came to this county, and after a,
life of usefulness fell asleep in 1853 on the 15th of
October. Mrs. Stephens and her parents, in com-
pany with Mr. Stephens' parents, had emigrated
from Highland County, Ohio, in 1833. Their
journey was accomplished by means of wagons
drawn by oxen and horse teams; there being no

taverns, they brought their cooking utensils with
them and camped at night by the road side. On
reaching Illinois they settled on the Kiekapoo River,
and the next winter came to Montgomery Town-
ship.

After marriage Lewis began life for himself as a
farmer, in which occupation he was very successful.
In politics he was a sound Jackson Democrat all
his life long. He was the father of eight children,
of whom five are living.

Our subject was reared and educated in the
schools of Montgomery Township. He was dili-
gent in his studies and secured a fair education,
but also paid attention to practical subjects, and
by the time he was of legal age was well fitted to
cope with the world, which he proceeded to do at
once. Securing a farm, he began operating it in
this township, and shortly - afterward married his
first wife. Miss Martha Daniel, the ceremony tak-
ing place at Metarnora, 111. Mrs. Stephens was
born in Funk's Grove, McLain County, in 1845.
She was a mere child when her parents came to
Woodford County, and here she grew to woman-
hood, receiving her education in the common
schools of the township. She was a dutiful, affec-
tionate daughter, and made a noble wife and mother,
but to her husband's grief she departed this life at
her home in this township Sept. 11, 1866, at the age
of twenty-one years. She was the mother of one
child, Martha E., who died when less than one
year old. Mr. Stepiiens was again married to a
lady of this township, named Miss Helen Beck, a
native of Spring Bay, this county, where she was
born Feb. 1, 1841, being a daughter of Peter and
Catherine (Gingery) Beck, who were natives of
Germany. They came to the United States in
their youth, locating in Pennsylvania, where they
were married when full grown, and a few months
later removed to the West, locating at first near
Spring Bay, this county, but afterward removing
to Montgomery Township, in which place Mr.
Beck died Sept. 19, 1851, at the age of fifty-one
years. Mrs. Beck is yet in the land of the living,
and makes her home with her younger son, Chris-
tian Beck, in McLean County. She is now eighty
years old, but although well stricken in years, and
her head grown white with the frosts of winter, she

280

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

yet retains considerable vigor, and has a good
recollection of numerous incidents occurring in her
early days. She is an earnest and devoted member
of the Mennonite Brotherhood, in which faith Mr.
Beck died.

Mrs. Stephens was reared in her parents' home,
and received a good common-school education and
an excellent domestic training. She is the mother
of three children: William A., born March 24,
1872; Lewis D., Dec. 4, 1873; and Charles A.,
Sept. 4, 1875. The children are all bright, intelli-
gent, affectionate, and industrious, and are yet at
home. Mr. Stephens has been Supervisor of the
township for a period covering about eleven years.
He has also served in the capacity of Assessor, and
is a stancli Democrat in polities, and takes con-
siderable interest in the management of political
affairs.

A lithographic view of Mr. Stephens' residence
appears elsewhere in this volume.

OSEPH STKIDER. Though not among the
earliest settlers of Woodford County, this
" gentleman may be accounted one of its pio-
neers, as since his advent here many years
ago. when a mere boy, he has worked energeticafly
to aid in the development of the vast agricultural
resources of this rich farming region, and he is
now classed among the most practical of the sub-
stantial farmers of Metamora Township, where he
possesses as good a farm as is to lie found in the
country round about.

Our subject is a native of France, born at
Dearne, Capelle canton, and arrondissemcnt of
Sorboume. Department of Muerthes, Sept. 1, 1835.
Hi* father was a native of the same place, and was
there reared and married, Catharine Miller becom-
ing his wife. In his youth he served an ap-
prenticeship to learn the trade of a shoemaker,
and followed that calling in his native France till
1848. In that year he resolved to try life in the
United States of America, and accordingly, in
the month of September, he set sail from Havre

with his wife and four children, and forty-
eight days later landed in New Orleans. He and
his family spent a month there, and then they pro-
ceeded up the river to St. Louis, where the hus-
band and father was taken sick, and a week later
he died, while yet in life's prime, being only forty-
two years old. - His unfortunate wife and children
were thus left without his protection, in a strange
country and with but limited means. They re-
mained in St. Louis two months, and then came on
to Woodfcrd County, and the mother rented a
house two miles west of Metamora, for a home for
herself and children. When her eldest daughter
married she went to live with her, and resided with
her children after that till her death, in 1885, at
the venerable age of eighty-two years. She was
the mother of four children: Barbara married Jo-
seph Bachman, and lives in Metamora Township;
John lives in Seward County, Neb.; Peter lives in
Metamora Township; Joseph is the subject "of this
biographical review.

The early years of his life were passed amid the
pleasant scenes of his birthplace in sunny France,
and he was the recipient of a very good education,
as he attended school regularly till his parents emi-
grated to the United States. At that time he was
a bright, active lad of fourteen years, with eyes
and ears open to all thd strange sights and sounds
in this, to him, strange country. He still remem-
bers the vivid impression that the wild, scarcely
cultivated, sparsely inhabited prairies made upon
him when he first set foot in Woodford County,
where the deer and other game were then roaming
at will. He commenced life here by working by the
month, receiving $8 for that length of time as
compensation for his services. He was prudent
and thrifty, and with wise economy saved his earn-
ings, so that three years later he was enabled to go
to farming on his own account, renting land for
that purpose the ensuing four years. In the mean-
time he and his brother bought land in partnership
in their mother's name, and building a frame house
to live in, commenced to improve their realty.
There was then no railway here, and Peoria and
Spring Bay were the nearest inarkets for some
years. The brothers were cp.iite prosperous in their
undertakings, and made money, with which they

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

281

bought more land, the deeds being in the mother's
name till her death. The land was then divided,
and our subject now owns the original eighty acres
that he and his brothers purchased, and 140 acres
besides. He has his farm under excellent cultiva-
tion, has it provided with suitable frame buildings,
and everything about the place is in good order.

Mr. Steider was married in 186(5 to Miss Ann
Stauffer, a native of the province of Alsace, Ger-
many. She was in every sense a true and devoted
wife, making her home comfortable and attractive
to her family, and her death, May 23, 1880. was a
sad blow to her beloved ones. Of her happy wed-
ded life three children were born: Ama, Louisa
A. and David W. Ama is the wife of David
Wagner, of Roanoke Township. The other two are
at home with their father.

Mr. Steider is a whole-souled, warm-hearted man,
kind, genial and charitable in his intercourse with
others, and a true friend to all who need a helping
hand. He possesses a fair share of energy, acumen
and thrift, and a knack of working to the best ad-
vantage, and these with other attributes have con-
tributed to his success in life, as he is entirely a
self-made man, having had no adventitious aids of
birth or fortune, but what he is and what he has, he
owes to his own exertions. His character is appre-
ciated by his neighbors, who hold him in high
respect and esteem. He and his family are de-
voted members of the Omish Church. Politically
he is a Republican as regards national affairs, but
in local matters he votes for the man and not for
the party.

RANK H. GOODRICH, of the firm of C. W.

Goodrich & Son, of Minonk, is prominent in
the public life of this city, and occupies an
important place in the financial and social circles
of Wood ford County. He is a native of New
York, born in the town of Westmoreland, Oneida
County, Dec. 30, 1849, to Caleb W. and Nancy E.
(Pratt) Goodrich. A sketch of his parents appears
on another page of this volume. He accompanied
them to Illinois in 1855, when a boy of five or six

years, and Minonk has ever since been his home.
He received a substantial education in the city
schools, and early entered upon his career as a
business man, becoming a partner of Samuel Wylie
in 1873. and conducting the grain business with
him the ensuing three years. After that he carried
on the business alone one year, and subsequently
he went to Peoria. where he had charge of the cir-
culation of the Daily Journal for about two
months. In 1878 he joined with his father in the
lumber business, and though his father has recently
died, our subject still manages the business, under
the firm name of C. W. Goodrich & Son. He has
proved himself an able and trustworthy financier,
and is conducting an extensive business with
marked success.

The marriage of our subject with Miss Mary
Dacey, daughter of John and Margaret (McGowan)
Dacey, was solemnized Dec. 24, 1878, and has been
productive of much happiness to both. Mrs.
Goodrich was born in An Sable Forks, Essex
Co., N. Y., Jan. 28, 1854. She is a lady of rare
culture and refinement, and received a superior
education at the Albany, N. Y., Normal School,
of which she is a graduate. She came to Illinois
in 1875, and secured a position as teacher in the
Minonk city schools, with which she is still con-
nected, having charge of the grammar department,
and under her efficient management the standard of
education has been raised in this city. To her and
her husband have been born two children, Mary
Louise and Raymond C. Their daughter weighed
but one pound and five ounces at birth.

In our subject Minonk finds one of its most lib-
eral and progressive citizens, who identifies himself
with its highest interests. His financial talent and
executive ability are of a high order, and his
genial social qualities make him popular with all.
His wife shares this regard with him, and they are
prominent in the best society of the city. Mr.
Goodrich is connected with the civic government
of Minonk, as City Clerk, of which office he has
been an incumbent for six years. He is a gentle-
man of cultured mind, and has a natural taste for
music, which has been cultivated. lie is leader of
the Minonk Band, which, under his careful train-
ing, has become one of the finest in this part of the

262

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

State. In politics he is independent, and tbe de-
mands of his public and private business are such
that he gives them, no further attention than to
vote on election days.

^.ILLIAM L. REAL, is another of the enter-
prising and energetic farmers of Minonk
Township. His farm is located on sec-
tion 3, his residence in this township dating back
to 1859. He is a native of Richland County, Ohio,
where he was born May 26, 1837, to John Beal and
wife. The father of our subject left Germany, his
native land, when a child six years old, coming
across the vast deep in care of his parents to the
United States. But little is known of his early
years, his record having been written on perishable
materials, but it is certain that he was married in
the State of Ohio, to a lady who was a native of
Pennsylvania. The issue of this marriage was three
children: William L., Margaret, wife of Henry
Baker, now residing in Powesheik County, Iowa.
The youngest child, Frank died in 1887.

William L. Beal was a boy five years of age
when he lost his mother, whose untimely death
not only deprived him of her loving care, but en-
tailed upon him great hardships, for his father
being unable to properly care for him, he was
bound out to a man named Jacob Spawn. His sis-
ter was also sent to the same family and their
abode thereafter was on a farm, where they were
not treated very kindly but were obliged to work
early and late, in hot or cold, receiving only the
barest necessaries of life and getting very little
chance to obtain an education, having to be so
constantly employed in other matters. At the age
of eighteen, William left his guardian and entered
the employ of a farmer in Knox County, Ohio, re-
ceiving $13 per month, which was then an ex-
ceptionally high salary. In 185!) he turned his face
westward locating in Dickenson County, Kan.,
where he purchased land. He remained there only
cue year, leaving in 1860 on account of the Indians,

who were committing great depredations, and the
border ruffians who presecuted him so cruelly that
he was obliged to leave the State. Retracing his
steps eastward as far as Illinois, he settled in Mason
County, for a period, securing employment on a
farm.

In September. 1861, Mr. Beal enlisted in Com-
pany B, 47th Illinois Infantry and served three
years, and was mustered out with the rank of Cor-
poral. His promotion was entirely merited by
gallant and faithful performance of duty on the
field of battle. His regiment was in active service
at new Madrid, Island No. 10, Farmington, Miss.,
Corinth, May 29, 1862; luka, Miss., Corinth, Oct.,
3, and 4, 1862; Jackson, Miss., Mechanicsburg,
assault on Vicksburg, siege of Vicks'jurg, Ft. De
Russy, La.. Henderson Hill, Pleasant Hill, Center-
ville, Morris Plantation, Tupelo, Miss., and Ab-
bysville. Although actively engaged in every
battle or skirmish in which his company partici-
pated, he was never wounded or taken prisoner,
making an unusual record in that respect, but one
for which he feels very thankful.

At the close of the war Mr. Beal came to this
county and secured employment at farm work, re-
maining there three years. In 1867 Mr. Beal and
the lady of his choice, Miss Melora Richards, were
united in marriage at the bride's home in Wood-
ford County. She is the daughter of Thomas
Richards, a prominent farmer of this county. The
young couple erected a modest home on a quarter
section of land belonging to Mr. Richards, and Mr.
Beal immediately set to work turning up the sod
on his prairie home, sowing seed and gathering in
his crops, building fences, planting shade and fruit
trees, erecting buildings to shelter his stock, and
otherwise improving and cultivating the land until
at present it yields him a good income. As a re-
ward for the industry and economy displayed by
Mr. and Mrs. Beal, Mr. Richards gave a deed of the
entire 160 acres to his daughter, Mrs. Beal.

Mr. and Mrs. Beal are the parents of four chil-
dren, namely: William, deceased, Etta, Frank and
Gertie. Mr. Beal is a stalwart Republican, adher-
ing to the principles of that party with unswerving
fidelity. Mrs. Heal is a devoted wife and mother,
a good friend to thos^ in need of her kind offices, a

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

283

considerate and obliging neighbor, and with her
husband enjoys a large circle of warm friends and
acquaintances. In her church relations sho is
equally happy, being an active member of the
Presbyterian Church.

JO MAJOR. The Major homestead is recog-
nized as one of the best in Olio Township,
| and its proprietor is universally popular
1 among all classes of people. Genial, hos-
pitable, kindhearted and enterprising, he has not
only accumulated a comfortable property for him-
self, but has been a useful man in his commu-
nity, strengthening its best elements and giving
his support to its most worthy enterprises. He
may be usually found at his fine farm of 450 acres
on section 18, where he has effected modern im-
provements and perpetuated a homestead desirable
in every respect.

Mr. Major is the offspring of an excellent old
Kentucky family and the son of Ben. and Lucy
(Davenport) Major, who were natives of the Blue
Grass State and emigrated to this county as early
as 1834, establishing themselves among the pio-
neer settlers of Olio Township, and on the place
now owned and occupied by their son, our sub-
ject. Here they spent the remainder of their
lives. The father was called suddenly away by
cholera on the 29th of May, 1852, at the age of
fifty-six years. The mother survived her husband
for a period of twenty years, her death taking
place Jan. 16, 1876, in the seventy-third year of
her age.

To the parents of our subject there was born a
family of nine children, of whom he was the sev-
enth. Ben. Major was a man of much force of
character and became prominent in his community,
upon which he exercised an excellent moral influ-
ence. Especially was he in favor of education, and
was instrumental in the founding of Eureka Col-
lege and officiated as President of the Board of
Trustees for a long period. He also assisted in the
organization of the Christian Church. In Ken-

tucky he had in early life been a slave holder, but
as years passed on and he began to realize the
injustice of the peculiar institution, he liberated his
colored people, sent them to Liberia at his own
expense and supported them for several years.

The subject of this sketch was born in this
county at the homestead where he now lives, Nov.
22, 1834, and received his early education in the
district school. This education was not as thorough
a-s ho would have liked, but on account of his
father's death he was obliged to assist his mother
at the homestead, as he was the only son at home.
He, however, has improved his leisure time with
good books and the current periodicals and like
his honest father, has been interested in the success
of Eureka College, in which he also serves as a
member of the Board of Trustees. His life occu-
pation has been that of a farmer and his chief
thought the acquisition of a pleas;mt and desirable
home, and a competence for his declining years,
which ambition it would seem, he has most
thoroughly realized.

Mr. Major brought a bride to the old roof tree
in the spring of 1861, having been married Feb. 12
of that year to Miss Mary S. Jones. This lady is a
native of England and came to America when about
ten years old. She has been the mother of seven chil-
dren, the eldest of whom, a son, John, died at the
age of nine months. Cora has charge of the art
department of Eureka College; Lucy teaches the
district school; Jo Jr., William, and Roy, are at home
with their parents; Roger, a promising boy, died
when five years old. The father, mother and
daughters, are members of the Christian Church.

While unambitious of office, Mr. Major takes a
warm interest in political affairs and keeps himself
well posted upon the march of events. He has rep-
resented Olio Township several terms in the County
Board of Supervisors, but aside from this has care-
fully avoided the responsibilities of office. Dur-
ing the late Civil War, he entered the ranks of the
Union army as a member of Company A., 86th
Illinois Infantry, and participated in the battles of
Perryville, Nashville, Stone River, Chickamatiga
and Lookout Mountain. lie endured all the hard-
ships and privations of life in the army and after
rendering a faithful service of about three years,

284

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

was mustered out at "Washington and received his
honorable discharge as captain; as soon as possible
thereafter he returned home and has since given
his time and attention to his farming interests. He
remembers many of the incidents of pioneer life in
this county during which time he assisted his father
in the development of the homestead, and since
reaching manhood has contributed his full quota to
the enterprises which have established the reputa-
tion of Woodford County, as that of one of the
best sections of the State.

\\AUL KOKIILER. Thirty-seven years ago
a family crossed the ocean from Germany
to the I'nited States, where they sought a
home and a fortune. Among them was a
little boy, over whose head scarcely four summers
had passed. That boy, now a man in the prime of
life, is an honored resident of Woodford County.
He was born in the Fatherland, in the town of Ba-
varia, on the 30th day of June, 1848. He is the
son of Peter and Clara Koehler.

Peter Koehler was a farmer in his native land,
but in 1852 took his wife and their live children to
a new home across the seas. The first winter after
their arrival they passed in Peoria, then settled on
a farm near Lacon, renting the land until 1858,
when ho purchased the 120 acres of land which is
now occupied by the subject of this notice. In his
old home he had accumulated but little money, but
after coming to America his constant and unremit-
ting industry brought its own reward, and he
became the owner of 200 acres of land, all of
which was improved. He died at the age of
seventy-one years in 1872. Mrs. Koehler died in
1885 having reached her seventy -third year.

Mr. and Mrs. Peter Koehler had a family of six
children, five of whom lived to maturity, namely:
Jacob, Chria'tian ; George, who died in infancy;
Peter, Mary and Paul. The three first mentioned,
met with a sad <kalli. When they were accom-
panying their parents to the new home in Wood-
ford County, they were drowned while crossing

Crow Creek, the waters of which had risen until
the creek was dangerous.

Our subject was a small lad when his parents
settled in Woodford County, and remained under
the parental roof until the parents had both passed
from earth. His wife was Miss Barbara Sheeler,
a daughter of Peter Sheeler, to whom he was mar-
ried in 1871. She lived only a short time, her
death occurring in 1874, leaving two children,
Peter and Jacob.

Mr. Koehler was again married April 22,1875,
his wife being Miss Elizabeth Bolander, a lady of
German birth and parentage. She was the only
one of her family who crossed the Atlantic to
make her home in the United States. Mr. and
Mrs. Koehler are the parents of three children,
Mary Ann, Clara and Barbara.

The political views of Mr. Koehler are coinci-
dent with those of the Republican party, while
religiously he and his family are members of the
Lutheran Church. He has served as Township
Collector two terms, to the entire satisfaction of
the community.

Mr. and Mrs. Koehler have a pleasant and happy
home with all the comforts and many of the lux-
uries of this life. He owns 200 acres of land, -veil
improved and in good condition. The addition of
such a family as this to any town or city is of con-
siderable importance, as they are law-abiding,
refined people, whose society is a pleasure to all
who come into contact with them.

LFRED CROSBY BELL comes of sterling
pioneer stock. He is one of the noble
veterans of the late war, willingly sacrific-
ing the opening years of a promising, vig-
orous manhood, for the good of his country, laying
aside his personal aims and ambitions to aid in
fighting its battles, and to save untarnished the dear
old Stars and Stripes. To these citizen-soldiers
our country has become still further indebted, for
when the terrible strife between the North and
South was at last brought to a close, they quietly

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

285

laid down their arras and took up the implements
of peace, which they have since wielded just as ef-
fectively, and have greatly aided the progress of
the country, and made the United Slates the most
prosperous, powerful and peaceful nation on the
face of the earth. Our subject is intelligently and
profitably carrying on farming in Linn Township,
and is the owner of one of its best managed and
most productive farms.

He is a native of Indiana, his birth taking place
in Albany, Aug. 7, 1841. His father, John E. Bell,
was born in Kentucky, a son of Maj. Bell, whose
parents were among the early pioneers of that State.
The latter was a farmer, and in turn became, like
his parents before him, a pioneer, removing to the
primeval forests of Indiana, lie was a citizen of
that State during the Black Hawk War, was a mem-
ber of the State militia, and served in the war
mentioned as major of his regiment. The last
years of his life were passed in New Albany.

The father of our subject was a young man when
his parents removed to Indiana, and he established
himself in the mercantile business. In 1846 he set-
tled his affairs in Indiana, gathered his means to-
gether, and emigrated across the border into Illinois
with a team, and coming northward located on
Crow Creek, in Marshall County. He found this
part of the country very thinly inhabited. At
Bloomington, where he and his family spent one
ni<*ht there was a small collection of about half a

dozen dwellings, and there were but two houses en
route to his destination on Crow Creek, a distance
of many miles. He bought a tract of wild land,
part prairie and part timber, in Belle Plain Town-
ship, of which he thus became an early settler. We
may remark in this connection that the Hon. Klein-
ing Bell, his brother, was one of the original settlers
of that township, and it was named in honor of
the Bell family. The father of our subject built a
log house in the timber near the Sycamore Ford,
which became the abode of his family. At that
time there were no railways in Illinois, and he and
many of his neighbors drew wheat and grain to
Chicago. lie improved a part of the laud, built up
a comfortable home, and was doing well financially
when death closed his earthly career in 1859. On
his mother's side our subject is derived from line

New England ancestry. Her maiden name was
Charlotte Elizabeth Crosby, and Milford, N. H.,
was her native place. Her father, Josiah Crosby,
was born in New England, and is supposed to have
spent his entire life there. The mother of our sub-
ject was a woman of superior mind. She was
reared and educated in the town of her nativity,
and when a young huly went to Indiana, and was
successfully engaged in teaching there till her mar-
ii:ige. Her last years were passed quietly on the
home farm in Marshall County, her death occurring
in 1857. Three children were born to her and her
worthy husband: John R., who lives near Wichita,
Kan.; Elizabeth, who married James Planger, now
deceased.

Alfred Bell, of this biography, was the oldest
son. He gleaned his education in a primitive,
pioneer school- house, with slab benches, wooden
pins serving as legs for the seats, furniture and
school-house being of the rudest description, and
that one building being the only institution of
learning in the whole township. When the family
moved to Belle Prairie, and for some years after,
deer, wild turkeys and wolves were plenty and
would approach quite closely to the lonely cabin oc-
cupied b} - the family. Our subject resided with his
parents till he was sixteen years old and then at the
time of his mother's death, he left home to work
on a farm in the township. After the breaking
out of the war, he watched its course with intense
interest, and the year he attained his majority, he
joined his comrades on Southern batttlefields, en-
listing in the month of September in Company
H, 77th Illinois Infantry, and marching to the
front, served faithfully, efficiently and patriot-
ically till after the close of hostilities. He was with
Gen. Banks on the Red River expedition, and took
part in the important battles of that campaign, and
was present at the engagements before the Spanish
Fort, and Forts Blakely and Morgan, and his regi-
ment was one of the first to occupy the works
around Mobile. In July, 1865, having won an
honorable military record, he was discharged with
his regiment at Springfield.

After his retirement from the army our subject
visited his friends a few weeks, but his active tem-
perament could not long brook idleness, and he

286

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

sought some way of employing his time profitably.
He soon invested ifi a team and a corn sheller, and
also purchased an interest in a ditching machine,
and was engaged in operating them for a year.
After that he rented a farm in Marshall County,
which he carried on five years. During that pe-
riod he bought the land comprising his present
farm in Linn Township. There was but a small
part of it under cultivation, but he now has the en-
tire tract improved, and has erected a neat set of
buildings, and has all the appurtenances of a model
farm.

Mr. Bell and Miss Ellen .1. McCune were united in
marriage in 1867, and the following children have
blessed their wedded life Emma J.,Ida M., Cora
J., Charlotte E., William and Frank. John, a twin
brother of Charlotte died when he was one year
old. Mrs. Bell was born in Butler Count}-, Ohio,
a daughter of Hugh and Ellen J. McCune.

Linn Township, has no more worthy or highly
respected people within her borders than our sub-
ject and his wife, and they occupy a warm place in
the hearts of their neighbors, to whom they have
endeared themselves by their genuine kindness and
helpfulness. They belong to the Methodist Episco-
pal Church, and in them their pastor and fellow-
members find zealous co-workers who desire the
highest good of the community. Mr. Bell is a true
Republican, and takes an intelligent interest in
politics.

HRISTIAN HAASE, President of the Vil-
lage Board, and the leading merchant of
Washburn, is a fine representative of the
energetic and wide-awake business men of this part
of Woodford County, who are in every way possible
advancing its interests. He has been identified
with the administration of the public affairs of the
place for a long time, as its most prominent civic
official.

He is of fovi ign birth and extraction, born
across the waters in the Rhine province, Germany,
Dec, 8, 1848. His father, C. Haase, was born and

reared in the same province. In early life he
learned the trade of a stone mason, but after mar-
riage he followed farming. He continued to reside
in the Fatherland till 1867, when he emigrated
with his family to America. He came to Illinois,
and locating in Washburn, carried on the trade of
a mason quite profitably several years, but is now
living retired. The maiden name of his wife was
Henrietta Junker, and she is also a native of the
Rhine province. She is still living, and with her
husband is spending her declining years pleasantly
in a home surrounded by all the comforts of life.

The subject of this biographical review is the
only child. He received a liberal education in his
native land, attending school till he was sixteen.
He came to America with his parents in 1867, and
began life here as clerk in the general store of
Roberts, Patrick & Co. Washburn was but a
small village at that time, containing but a few
families, and this was the only store of the kind in
the place. He continued as clerk till 1878, and
then purchased an interest in the concern of Mr.
Roberts, and the firm became Patrick &. Haase, and
was conducted under that name till Mr. Patrick's
death, which occurred in December, 1886, since
which time he has conducted the business alone.
In 1887 lie was burned out, and the same year he
erected a frame building on the same spot, and in
1888 he erected the building in which he is doing
business at the present time. This is a handsome,
commodious brick structure, twenty-four feet wide,
eighty-five feet deep. Our subject carries a full
and well-assorted stock of general merchandise,
dry-goods, groceries, etc., and has one of the finest
stores in the county. The career of our subject
furnishes a fine example of what a self-made man
may accomplish by thrift, industry and strict at-
tention to business. He has risen from the humble
position of clerk, to be one of the wealthiest and
most substantial citizens of Washburn.

Mr. Haase was married in 1880 to Miss Mary
Junker, who was born in Washburn of German
parentage. They have one child named Carl.

The citizens of Washburn having long since
recognized the fact that in the young man who
was so successfully carrying on a flourishing busi-
ness among them, were embodied those traits of

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

287

character that mark an astute, far-sighted, fair-
minded, public-Spirited citi/en, and that the village
would secure in him an able civic otticc'r, elected
him to a responsible place on the local Board of
Government, and for a long time he was clerk of
the board till his election to the still more respons-
ible office of President of the Board. In that ca-
pacity he is doing all that he can to promote the
the highest interests of the village, and no feasible
scheme is advanced for its improvement that does
not meet with his hearty approval and liberal sup-
port. He was appointed Postmaster of Washburn.
and served with satisfaction to all concerned till
the change of administration. As a politician he
affiliates with the Democrats, and is one of the
leading suppprters of the party in this vicinity.

the

ENRY HALL, was, during the years of his
boyhood and youth, a resident of England,
which was the land of his birth. He was
an employe in n large woolen factory, from
age of ten years until he had reached the
twenty-sixth year of his life. This period, which
most boys devote to the pleasures of the ball ground,
the race, or the simple amusements of the home
circle, or otherwise are consuming the time in study
and preparation for years of future usefulness, was
by him all occupied in working for the necessities
of life food, shelter and clothing. He was very
successful in his labor, and had the confidence of
his employers, but at the end of the sixteen years he
had been in their factory, he found himself about
as poor as when he entered. Wishing to lay up a
little for the proverbial ''rainy day" and knowing
that it was an impossibility in England, he at last
decided to seek a home in the United States.
Hither the eyes of an entire world were then turned,
as opening a field for the poor and destitute of all
countries.

In the spring of 1850 Mr. Hall took passage at
Liverpool in the vessel 'Great Western." and after an
ocean voyage of thirty -two days, reached New York
City, landing with hundreds of other emigrants at

the famous city. In that motley throng he caught
his first glimpses of life in America. Soon how-
ever, leaving the companions of his voyage, he
started directly to Illinois, where he located at
Peoria. In that young and growing city Mr. Hall
was for a time engaged at various occupations,
subsequently working as a farm laborer. He was
enabled by strict economy to save enough to begin
as a renter in Peoria Count}', and later bought a
farm in the same county. In the spring of 1 865
lie changed his residence from Peoria County, to
Panola Township, Woodford County, where he
purchased eighty acres of good land on section 10.
Of this forty acres had never been broken, nor
even had a furrow turned in it, while the other half
was only partially cultivated. Being a man of de-
termination and will, Mr. Hall went to work immedi-
ately on his new homestead, and" L the result of his
industry is noticeable in the fact that he is now the
owner of 200 acres of fine land, ranking as among
the best in the township. He has done a great deal
of pioneer labor, but has now retired from active
work on the farm, although he still oversees and
manages the work. His present farm is located on
section 15, and there he has a comfortable home,
where he quietly enjoys the fruits of years of toil.
He is also a stock-raiser, and has been very suc-
cessful in raising fine breeds of stock on his farm.

Mr. Hall was married prior to coming to America,
to Miss Ann Hartlej', daughter of Robert and Ann
Hartley, natives of England, where they spent their
entire lives; they both being deceased. This lady
did not accompany her husband to America, but
six years later joined him in New Y'ork City, where
he had gone to meet her and the daughter, Caro-
line, and they proceeded at once to the home that the
husband had prepared for them in Peoria County,
111. The daughter died in Peoria County, in 1858
and the wife died in Woodford County, 111., in
1868.

Mr. Hall was married a second time in Peoria
County, to Jane Mealy, who afterward died, leaving
no children. His third marriage was with Maiy
A. Chad wick, in 1883, by whom he had one child,
now deceased. He is a member of the United
Brethren Church, where he is highly respected. In
political affiliations he is a Republican, with Pro-

'288

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

hibition principles, believing in moderation in all
things. Socially, he and his wife enjoy a large and
extended acquaintance, and are numbered among
the leading and influential residents of Panola
Township.

Mr. Hall is now in the prime of his useful life,
having been born in 1824, on the llth of June.
Lancashire was his native county, and there he
lived during almost the entire time of his residence
in England. His parents were named respectively
Robert and Ellen Hall, people of good family and
honored wherever known. They spent their entire
lives in their native land, and there passed to their
last rest.

Although having no aspirations for public life
and the cares and responsibilities of office, Mr. Hall
is greatly interested in the cause of education in
America, and displayed his solicitude for the ad-
vancement of the common schools by serving with
great zeal and enterprise on the Board of School
Directors. Having himself been deprived of an
education, save what he obtained at the night
schools, he feels particularly anxious that the chil-
dren of this day and age should be fitted in every
possible way for their future life.

B. MURPHY, a retired farmer and
a prominent and influential citizen of
Secor, was born in Loudoun County,
Va.. on the 4th day of September, 1804,
and is a son of Philip T. Murphy. The fam-
ily is of Irish descent, and was founded in
America by the grandparents of our subject, who
left the Emerald Isle, and became residents of Vir-
ginia, locating near Richmond, where the remain-
der of their lives was passed.

Philip T. Murphy, father of our subject, was
born in the Old Dominion, and in Loudoun County
\v:is reared and married, the lady of his choice
being Mis-s Nancy Richardson, a native of England,
who had crossed the Atlantic to America with her
parents in childhood. After marriage the young
couple began their domestic life in Loudoun County,

where the husband followed the occupation of
farming. His beloved wife was called to her final
rest while there residing, dying of palsy at the age
of sixty-four years. Mr. Murphy afterwards be-
came a resident of Ohio, and died in Muskingum
County, at the home of his son John B., at the age
of seventy-eight years. He and his wife were
rnemuers of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and
were consistent Christian people, who died respected
by all who knew them.

Our subject is one of a family of five children,
two sons and three daughters, and passed his early
life in his native county. He afterwards became a
resident of Ohio, settling in Muskingum County
with his father, where he remained for some years.
At length leaving the Buckeye State, he became a
resident of Illinois, and in Tazewell County, in
1837, was united in marriage with Sidney A. Here-
ford, who was born in Culpeper County, Va.,
Feb. 23, 1821. Her parents were Ammond and
Amelia N. (Powell) Hereford, both of whom were
also natives of Virginia, and of English parent-
age. By occupation Mr. Hereford was a farmer,
and followed that business during the greater part
of his life. He died at his home in Culpeper
County, at the early age of thirty-four years, after
which his wife came with her family to Illinois,
settling in Tazewell County, where she passed
away some years later, at the age of sixty-five
years. She was a member of the Methodist Church,
and herself and husband were highly respected
people.

Mrs. Murphy was but five years old at the death
of her father. In 1836 she came with the family
to Illinois, remaining with her mother until her
marriage. The bridal tour of the young couple
consisted of a trip to Muskingum County, Ohio,
where they began their domestic life and made
their home until 1865, when they again came to
Illinois, locating in Greene Township, Woodford
County. Purchasing land, Mr. Murphy at once
turned his attention to the development of a farm,
continuing the work of cultivation and improve-
ment until his retirement from active life. By
years of industry and perseverance he had accu-
mulated a competency, which would enable him to
pass his declining years in rest from all labor, and

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

289

in 1882 he left the farm which he had so long
made his home, and removed to Secor. However,
he still owns 160 acres of valuable land in Greene
Township.

Of the ten children born to Mr. and Mrs. Mur-
phy, seven are yet living: Josiah A., who married
Fannie Revanaugh, and is now engaged in farming
in Taylor County, Iowa; Philip T., who wedded
Mary Hereford, and resides on his farm near Piper
City, 111.: William T., who makes his home in
Peoria, III.; Daniel, a leading merchant of Mus-
kingum County, Ohio, was joined in wedlock witli
Sarah M. Karnes; Eliza .1. is the wife of S. Burk-
holder, a resident fanner of Palestine Township;
Eva is at home, and Albert C.,a grocery merchant
of Lincoln, Neb., married Ida Miller. Sarah, Mary,
and an infant daughter are deceased.

For a quarter of a century Mr. Murphy has
made his home in this county, and has identified
himself with its best interests. He has aided in its
progress and development, its upbuilding and ad-
vancement, and well merits the high regard in
which he is held. In politics he is a supporter of
the Democratic party. Mr. and Mrs._Murpliy are
now in their declining years, but their lives have
been well spent, and they can look back over the
past with no regrets. Their course has always
been such as to win the confidence of those with
whom they have come in contact, and they have
gained many warm friends throughout the county.

felLLl AM L. p;LLWOOD, Attorney -at-Law,
/// Metamora, has won a reputation at the bar
as a lawyer of ability, whose personal
character is above reproach. His father, Isaac Ell-
wood, was a native of England, his parents also
being of English birth and ancestry, his father be-
ing William Ellwood, a prominent farmer of Cum-
berland, and they passed their entire lives in their
native land. The father of our subject having a
natural taste for a military life, entered the British
service when quite young, and became a member of
the CJueen's Life Guards, remaining in the army

several years. He came to America before mar-
riage and settled in the State of New York, engaged
in farming at Skaneateles. He subsequently carne
from there to Illinois in 1852. lie first established
himself and family in Morgan County, but after
living there two years came to Woodford County,
and bought a farm in Metamora Township, and be-
came actively identified with its agricultural in-
terests. In 1856 he removed to Washington,
Tazewell County, for the purpose of keeping a ho-
tel. He managed it successfully a few years, and
then going to Mackinaw, resumed farming. At
the breaking out of the war he went to Springfield
and offered his services as drill master, his exper-
ience in the English army amply qualifying him
for that duty, and they were gladly accepted by
the Illinois State Government, and he was em-
ployed to teach the raw recruits of the llth Illinois
Cavalry and other regiments, military tactics. He
went south with the llth Illinois Cavalry to which
he was attached, and rendered valuable service in
his capacity of drill-master. Although the duties
of his position did not require it, for the sake of
aiding the regiment he drilled, he exposed himself
to the fire of the enemy at the battle of Pittsburg
Landing, and had a horse killed under him. After
that battle he enlisted as a soldier ami was elected
Captain of Company I, llth Illinois Cavalry. He
was detailed to do garrison duty at Corinth, Miss,,
and while there was stricken with a mortal illness,
was granted a leave of absence, and eleven days
after his return home died, and was buried in the
cemetery at Mackinaw, in Tazewell County, III., and
thus passed away from earth, as gallant a soldier as
ever yielded up his life for the country of his
adoption. The maiden name of his wife was Ann
E. Hugill, and she was a daughter of Charles and
Margaret (Roberts) Hugill, all natives of England.
She departed this life in Metamora, 111., Sept. 22,
1881.

There were three children born of the marriage
of the parents of our subject, of whom two are
living, his sister Margaret and himself, the former
being the wife of J. M. Fort, of Minonk, of whom
see sketch. The maternal grandparents of the sub-
ject of this sketch were natives of England, and
they came to America in 1833, and located in Can-

290

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

ada near Toronto, where they lived five years.
They then came to the " States," and finally, in
1858, settled and spent the rest of their flays in
Metaraora Township.

He of whom we write was born near Skaiieateles,
N. Y., March 6, 1851, and was but an infant when'
his parents brought him to this State, so that the
most of his life has been passed here. He gained
a solid foundation for a sound education in the
public schools, and was afterwards a student at the
Illinois Soldiers' College at Fulton. During his
three years stay in that excellent institution of
learning, he obtained good rank for scholarship, and
was well fitted for any profession that he might
decide to adopt. After leaving college he taught
school in Cruger Township, eight and one-half
months. In June, 1870, he commenced the study
of law, for which he had a marked taste, under the
instruction of S. M. Garrett of Metamora. then
Stales Attorney for the 23d Judicial District. He
read law assiduously, and applying for admission
to the bar, was examined in open court before the
full bench at Ottawa, in the September term, 1872,
and was admitted after satisfactorily passing a
rigid examination. He opened an office in Wat-
seka, Iroquois Co., 111., and practiced there six
months. lie then came to Metainora, where he
formed a partnership with John Clark, under the
firm name of Clark & Ellwood, they continuing to-
gether till April 30, 1877, when our subject prac-
ticed alone for a short time, and then formed a
partnership with the well known S. S. Page, now
Judge Page, of Peoria, continuing with him till
March, 1882, or until a short time after the latter's
removal to Peoria. Since that time Mr. Ellwood
has been alone, and has established a lucrative
practice by perfectly legitimate means.

Mr. Ellwood and Miss Mary E." 1 Bullock, were
united in marriage Dec. 26, 1875, and their happy
wedded life has been blessed to them by the birth
of two children, Edna M. and Beulah. Mrs. Ell-
wood is a native of New York State, her father be-
ing John J. Bullock, while the maiden name of her
mother was Catherine Jones.

Mr. Ell wood's career at the bar has shown him to
be possessed of a good knowledge of law, a true
love for his profession, unflagging zeal in its pros-

ecution, and of a high standard of professional
honor. He is a Prohibitionist in politics, and a
strong advocate of the temperance movement in
both word and deed.

AVID S. RICHARDS, Superintendent of
jll the Chicago and Minonk Coal and Coke
Company, is numbered among the most
prominent, enterprising and capable busi-
ness men of Wooriford County, and Minonk has no
resident more worthy of respect and esteem than
he. He is a native of Wales, born Jan. 28, 1852.
His parents, Shern and Elizabeth (Baker) Richards,
also natives of Wales, emigrated to Canada in 1855,
and, after living there ten years came to the United
States, locating in Chicago, where Mr. Richards
worked at his trade of carpentering until his death
which occurred in August 1888, when he was sixty-
nine years of age. Mrs. Richards is yet living and
makes her home in Chicago. Of the children born
to her and her husband four are living, namely:
William E., a dry-goods merchant of Chicago;
Elizabeth, wife of John R. Blake, resides near San
Francisco, Cal.; C. Sarah is the wife of Thomas
Beggs of Chicago.

The subject of this brief personal narrative was
the fifth child born to his parents. He received
the rudiments of his education in Canada, and soon
after coming to Chicago, secured work in a printing
office and was afterward emploj'ed for a while in
an abstract office. Subsequently, our subject en-
tered the office of Miner T. Ames, as errand boy,
and so well performed the menial duties given him
that he was from time to time promoted to posi-
tions of greater responsibility. In every place he
was put, Mr. Richards proved faithful and trust-
worthy, and on Jan. 5, 1872, Mr. Ames sent him to
the office of the coal mines in Minonk, of which he
was president. Samuel Work, was at that time
Superintendent of the mines, and our subject was
in the office with him and his successor a few months
when, shortly after attaining his majority, he was
given full charge of the mines, his employers fully

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

291

recognizing his keen business ability, shrewd judg-
ment, and excellent tact. The company employs
over 200 men in the mines, which are 554 feet
deep, and also several men above ground, be-
side those who are engaged in the manufacture of
tile. Mr. Richards also has charge of the latter
business as well as of the store of the company,
which is the largest in Minonk.

In 1876 Mr. Richards was united in marriage to
Miss Mary Ellen Shepherd. She was born near
Lacon, being a daughter of John P. Shepherd, a
farmer of Marshall County. Their union has been
blessed by the birth of three children, Rena Belle,
Miner T. and Frances Gertrude.

Our subject and his estimable wife during their
residence in Minonk, have won the regard and con-
fidence of all with whom they have come in con-
tact, and their geniality and hospitality render them
very popular throughout their community. In
all social, moral and literary affairs they take
a deep interest, and Mr. Richards is serving as a
member of the Board of Education. In politics our
subject, though declining to take an r.ctive part,
supports the Democratic party.

ON. JAMES DWIGI1T WEBBER, a prom-
l! inent citizen of Woodford County, has
been connected with the highest interests of
Minonk, for more than twenty years, was at
one time one of its leading merchants, and has
also paid some attention to agriculture, being the
proprietor of a fine farm in this -vicinity. But he
is now living in retirement here in a pleasant, at-
tractive home. It gives us pleasure to publish in
this work a record of the life of this widely known
and honored gentleman.

He is a native of New York,and comes of a sterling
ancestry. He was born in Greene County, that State,
April 19, 1826, to Henry and Louisa (Pitts) Web-
ber, also natives of that county. His great-grand-
father was a native of Holland, who left his
native land and came to America, accompanied
by a brother some time during the last century.

After landing in this country he and his brother
became separated, and they never met again. John
Webber, grandfather of James, our subject, was
born in the primeval. forests of Greene County, as
one of the early pioneers of that county, and car-
ried on his occupation of farming there many years.
He erected a log cabin, and cleared and improved
a good farm, and there he and his good wife made
their home respected and regarded with feelings of
affection by their fellow-pioneers, till death called
them hence, he dying at the age of eighty-four,
and she at the age of ninety-three. Her maiden
name was Mitchell, and she was a native of Massa-
chusetts. She and her husband reared a famity of
eight children: David, Henry, John N., Robert,
William, Betsy, Sally and Christian. All engaged
in agricultural pursuits except Robert who became
a physician.

Henry, the father of our subject, was a farmer,
and in his early life operated a fulling mill in his
native count3\ He did gallant service in the War
of 1812, and was promoted to the rank of ser-
geant. He married in Greene County, and there he
and his wife spent their wedded life, lie dying at
the age of sixty-four years, killed by a falling
tree, and she passed away at the age of fifty-six.
He was a successful farmer financially and accumu-
lated much valuable property, and in his deatli the
interests of his community received a severe blow.
He was an active and consistent member of the
Methodist Episcopal Church, and none of his fel-
low-members were before him in his good works.
Of his peaceful and happy wedded life the following
children were born, all of whom attained their ma-
jority, as follows: James D wight; Levi P., a farmer
in Rutland, III.; Ann C., wife of R. L. Hamilton, of
Minonk; John II., an extensive fanner nearWenona,
111.; Ellen, wife of E. J. Nichols, of Kingston, N.
Y.; Charles E., living in Minonk; Cynthclla, who
was twice married, her first husband being George
Hill, and her second M. Lament. She died in
Kingston, N. Y., hers being the first death in the
family; Harriet E.. the wife of Edward Andrews,
of Kingston, N. Y.; Sarah C., the wife of Charles
V. Dubois, of Kingston, N. Y.

James D. Webber of this biography was bred to
the life of a farmer on the old homestead where he

292

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

was born. Being an apt and eager scholar, he
gleaned a very good education in the public
schools, and at one time utilized his learning by
teaching very successfully three terms. He sub-
sequently learned the trade of a wagon and carriage
maker, which he pursued very profitably till 1865.
He then sold out his business and disposed of his
property with the view of taking up his abode in
the West, wishing to try life on the broad, breezy,
healthful prairies of Illinois, and in 1866 he settled
in Minonk, and has since held an important place
among its prominent citizens. At first he en-
gaged in the hotel business, being the proprietor
and manager of the Webber House, which still
hears his name. In 1870 he sold his hotel build-
ing, and associated himself with E. Martin to en-
gage in the hardware trade, under the name of
Martin & Webber. In 1872 he sold his interest in
the store, as he was at that time elected to the
State Legislature. He served with distinction in
that honorable body, and was a member of the
Penitentiary Committee, and also of that on Banks
and Banking. In 1873 he again gave his attention
to the hardware business, entering into partnership
with C. E. Webber and S. A. Miller, under the
firm name of Webber Bros. & Miller, continuing
thus till 1880, when our subject retired, although
he subsequently carried on a furniture business
some eighteen months. Besides other valuable
property, he owns 160 acres of choice and well-
improved land in Minonk Township.

To the good wife who has shared his fortunes,
and to whom he owes much of his success in life,
he was united in marriage in 1856, in Greene
County, N. Y. Mrs. Webber is a native of that
county. Her maiden name was Jemima Tryon,
and she is a daughter of Peter D. and Miry
Tryon, also natives of Greene County, the Tryons
having been pioneers of that part of New York.
Mr. and Mrs. Webber have had but one son, Henry
T., born in 1857. lie received a good practical
business education, and after leaving school trav-
eled two years for a furniture firm, and later was
employed in the Chicago office of the Chicago &
Minonk Coal and Coke Company. He was regarded
as a very bright and promising young man, and
his employers considered him one of their best

clerks and most efficient salesmen. But his health
failed, and he was obliged to give up business, and
he traveled awhile in California, in the vain hope
of recovery, but died of consumption in the
month of September, 1888. leaving a wife and one
child, Lottie, besides his parents and many warm
friends, to mourn his untimely death. Though
dying so young, he left an honorable record of a
well-spent life, and we cannot believe that it has
come to naught. It can truthfully be said of him
in words that were said of another:

" His life is bright bright without spot it was
And cannot cease to be. No ominous hour
Knocks at his door with tidings of mishap.
Far off is he, above desire and fear.
No more submitted to the chance and change
Of the unsteady planets. O, 'tis well
With him. But who knows what the coming

hour,
Veiled in thick darkness, brings for us?"

Mr. AVebber is a valued member of the Demo-
cratic party, and has held office with distinction,
yet he does not care to mingle in public life,
though his course as a legislator showed him to be
possessed of good, statesman-like qualities, and
was honorable to him and useful to the State.
His reputation both in public and private life is
blameless, and his unswerving rectitude of purpose
and act is detected in his every word and deed.
His amiable wife shares with him the high respect
and consideration in which he is held. He is con-
nected with the Masonic order, and is a Knight
Templar.

OSEPH HASTINGS MOORE. The record
of this respected veteran, who is now ap-
proaching the seventy-sixth year of his age,
fj is one of more than ordinary interest, filled in
with the events of a long and useful life, one which
it is hoped will be prolonged for many years to
come. He is one of the pioneer settlers of this
county, coming within its limits when it bore a
wide contrast to its present condition, and he has
been a resident of El Paso Township, since I860.
The year following he was elected a Justice of the

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

293

Peace, at the organization of the township, and lias
since filled the position, not continuously however.
He took up his abode in the city of El Paso in 1 864,
and was its first Mayor under the new organization.
He was the Postmaster from 1 868 to 1 880, a period
of twelve years, and has been identified with its
most important interests from the beginning.

The town of Boylston, Worcester Co., Mass.,
was the native place of our subject and the date of
his birth Feb. 8, 1814. His parents were David
and Dolly (Hastings) Moore. The Moore and
Hastings families are of English descent, and David
Moore, the father of our subject, removed with his
family to Athens County, Ohio, in the year of
1817. There they reared their six sons and three
daughters to maturity, but only three boys of the
family are now living the Hon. E. H. Moore of
Athens, Ohio, older than our subject; Henry D., a
resident of Peru, Miami Co., Ind., and our sub-
ject. Mr. Moore had only the advantages of a com-
mon-school education, mostly carried on in a log
school house, and at an early age he was required
to make himself useful on the new farm, clearing
the land and cultivating the soil. The father being
a carpenter and millwright was away from home
the most of his time, working at his trade, and con-
sequently the care of the farm and the raising of
the children devolved mostly upon the mother.
While in Massachusetts the parents were connected
with the Congregational Church, but there being
no society of this kind near their home after re-
moving to Ohio, they united with the Presbyterian
Church with which they were subsequently identi-
fied the remainder of their lives. David Moore
departed this life in May, 1836 while in his prime.
The mother survived her husband many years and
until 1874, in which year her decease took place at
the ripe old age of eighty-four years.

In Muskingum County, Ohio, Aug. 7, 1834, our
subject was married to Miss Juliet Helm. In the
following fall the young people removed with the
wife's parents to Jefferson County, Ky., and during
that winter they united with the Christian Church
at Flat Rock. After coming to Illinois, they, in
1864, were instrumental in organizing the Chris-
tian Church at El Paso, and ever afterward took a
lively interest in its prosperity. In connection

with this Mr. Moore has held many offices of trust
and responsibility and is now an Elder.

Mr. Moore and his family in 1836 removed
from Kentucky, to Athens, Ohio, where Mr. Moore
becamo prominent in local affairs and was elected
to the office of Constable, and Township Treasurer,
and in 1839 to the office of Sheriff of Athens
County. He took an active part in the election of
Gen. William H. Harrison in 1840, and although
not possessing oratorical powers, did fully as effici-
ent service at the public assemblies by looking
after the band wagons and log cabins necessary to
create enthusiasm over the candidate, assisted in
raising liberty poles, and was efficient at the grand
rallies generally. He served his first term of office
as Sheriff acceptably and was re-elected in 1841.

In 1844 Mr. Moore decided upon a removal far-
ther Westward and came to McLean County, this
State. lie settled on its western line where he pur-
chased the last remnant of land from Mr. Redding,
of the notorious Redding gang of Mosquito Grove,
known then, us Rogues Harbor. The Redding
had left and joined the Mormons at Nauvoo, ex-
cepting the uncle in whose name the title to the
land was, and the following year 1845 took part in
the noted Davenport murder. In 1846 Mr Moore
removed to what was then Concord, but is now
Danvers, in McLean County, and the following
year he was elected Justice of the Peace. In 1849
occurred the re-organization of the old county com-
missioners court, and the forming of a new court
consisting of one Judge and two Associate County
Justices of the Peace, at which time, November,
1849, Hon. John E. McClun was elected Judge and
Silas Waters, Esq., of Leroy, and "Jay" H. Moore
were elected Associates and held their offices four
years; Mr. Moore, in 1856 was elected Sheriff of
McLean County, which office he held two years.

Mr. Moore in 1857 took an active part in secur-
ing the location of the Normal University at Bloom-
; ington, which was only accomplished by securing
an appropriation of $60,000 from the County
Court, then consisting of A. J. Merriman, Judge,
and Hiram Buck and Milton Smith, Associates,
(both the latter now deceased,) out of the Swamp
Land fund. In 1860 Mr. Moore moved on to a
farm of 240 acres, two miles south of El Paso. In

294

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

1861, when the township of El Paso was organized
he was elected Justice of the Peace which office he
held until 1869. Then, having been appointed
Postmaster at El Paso, he declined a re-election and
held the latter office until 1880.

In 1881 Mr. Moore was elected Justice of the
Peace which office he filled until 1889. lie was
then elected Police Justice (or the city of El Paso,
which office he now holds. While farming he met
with several disasters, On the 13th of May, 1858,
a hurricane struck his house and scattered it to the
four winds, killing one man and crippling eight or
nine other persons men, women and children. He
soon re-built and raised fifteen-cent corn and $2,50
pork until 1862. That year he was stricken
down with rheumatism and was obliged to aban-
don active labor. He sold his farm in 1863 and
removed to El Paso in the Spring of 1864. Aside
from being troubled occasionally with rheumatism,
he is quite hale and hearty not withstanding his
age.

Mrs. Juliet (Helm) Moore, died at the family res-
idence in El Paso, May 20, 1868 leaving a family
of five children. Their eldest daughter, Elizabeth
C., is the wife of Harry .Sanders of Newark, Ohio.
Josephine B., is the widow of Thomas D. Helm, of
El Paso; Mary L., is the wife of J. Newton Henry
of Clinton, III. ; Henrietta M., Mrs. P. A. Simmons,
lives at Medicine Lodge, Kan. ; Charles Hastings,
the only son, is a resident of Kansas City, Mo.

In December, 1869 Mr. Moore was married a sec-
ond time to Mrs. Nancy (Baldridge) McClamroch,
of Indianopolis, Ind. This lady was the widow of
Thomas McClamroch, who died at Indianopolis, in
the fall of 1859, leaving one son, Robert, who is
now a capitalist and banker of Frankfort, Ind. The
present wife of our subject has been a zealous
member of the Christian Church since a young
girl of fifteen years. In 1882 in company with his
son, Charles, Mr. Moore went into the Indian Ter-
ritory, where they engaged in the live stock busi-
ness and spent the summer on a ranche in the
Cherokee Strip, being a member of the Cherokee
Strip Live Stock Association, which leased the Strip
of the Cherokees for five years in consideration of
*100,000 per annum, payable semi-annually. The
ranche comprised a body of land seven miles

square, and of his part Mr Moore retained possess-
ion until 1886. He then sold out and abandoned
the live-stock business and in fact retired from ac-
tive life, with the exception of officiating as Justice
of the Peace.

Mrs. Nanc} r Moore was born and reared in Ohio,
where she was first married and later removed
with her husband to Indianopolis, Ind., where Mr.
McClamroch died in the prime of life. Mr. Moore,
politically, was in early 'life a member of the old
Whig part}' but upon its abandonment, in 1856,
identified himself with the newly-formed Republi-
can party of whose principles he has been a hearty
supporter. He has been the witness of changes and
events, which could they presented in book form
would make a most readable volume: In the de-
velopment and growth of Wood ford County, he
has taken an active part and his name will be held
in remembrance long after he has been gathered to
his fathers.

ICHAEL C. WAGNER, the popular repre-
sentative of Worth Township, on the
County Board of Supervisors, is quite an
extensive farmer and stock-raiser of this,
his native county. He is the proprietor of 360
acres of land, 250 or more of which is tillage and
pasture land, the remainder being in timber. He
was born in Partridge Township, Dec. 20, 1849,
the youngest son of Jacob and Mary S. (Stouder)
Wagner. See sketch of Jacob Wagner for paren-
tal history.

Our subject was reared in his native township.
He attended school but little in his youthful days,
for his father being in limited circumstances,
needed his assistance on the farm. He aided his
father in clearing land and in tilling the soil until
his marriage. He then rented the homestead two
years, and after that rented other farms in the same
township the ensuing seven years, and at the ex-
piration of that time rented the farm that he now
occupies. He was a great worker, and was very
prosperous as a renter, and at the end of three

RESIDENCE OF SIMON SWAN , SEC. 5. CLAYTON TOWNSHIP.

RESIDENCE OF JACOB BARiNGER,5EC.36. ROANOAKE TOWNSHIP.

FARM PROPERTY OF MRS. N.J.STUMBAUCH, SEC. 2. MONTGOMERY TP.

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

297

years he purchased the farm, and lias resided on it
ever since, actively engaged in general farming
and stock-raising.

Mr. Wagner was joined in marriage to Miss
Margaret Sharp, and she made him an excellent
wife, being of material assistance in bringing about
his present prosperous circumstances. Her father, j
George Sharp, was one of the earliest settlers of
Tazewell County, and is still living on the land
which he bought from the Government, and has
reclaimed from the wilderness. Our subject and his
wife are the parents of nine children, namely:
Christian, Ella, Edward, Annie, Carrie, Charles, Ar-
thur, Ida and Harrison, the latter named in honor
of President Harrison. Mr. and Mrs. Wagner are
active Christian people, and members respectively
of the Methodist Episcopal and Lutheran churches.
Politically, our subject affiliates with the Repub-
lican party , and the high estimation in which he
is held by his fellow-citizens is attested by the fact
that he, has been twice re-elected to the important
office of Supervisor, in which position he is now
serving his third term, in a township whose voters
are, to a great extent, his political opponents.

K ANIEL C. WAGNER is extensively and
prosperously engaged as a farmer and
stock-raiser on the old Sharp homestead in
Worth Township, where his wife was born
and bred. He is a native of Germany, born Nov.
12, 1841, to Jacob and Margaretta Wagner, pio-
neers of Woodford County, for whose personal
history see sketch of Jacob Wagner.

Our subject was the seventh child born to his
parents, and being a lad of six years when he
crossed the ocean from his native land to this
country, he has quite a distinct recollection of the
voyage, and of the appearance of the country in
his early years here, and of the pioneer life of the
inhabitants. There being no railways here, the
river towns were the markets. At the time of his
marriage Mr. Wagner left the home of his parents

and rented land, and busily engaged in farming it
the following two years. At the expiration of
that time he located on the farm where he now
lives, which was the birthplace of his wife, and the
homestead that her father had eliminated from the
wild prairies and timber lands of Woodford
County, in the very early years of its settlement.
Our subject has managed it in the very best possi-
ble manner, so as to add to its value rather than to
decrease it. Its broad fields yield him generous
harvests in return for the careful cultivation that
he gives to the soil. Its buildings are of a sub-
stantial order, and arc well kept, and Mr. Wagner
has the farm stocked with choice cattle of excel-
lent grades, besides having fine horses and swine of
good breeds.

Mr. Wagner was married, Jan. 5, 1866, to Miss
Mar}' Sharp, and to them have come nine children,
as follows: Mary, Alexander, Maggie, Sadie, Frank,
Amanda, Albert, Lawrence and LeRoy. Aleck, the
oldest son living, a bright and promising young
man, has been blind since he was two years old.
He has been a student at the Institution for the
Blind at Jacksonville, in this State, and was grad-
uated therefrom with honor in June, 1889.

Mrs. Wagner's father, John Sharp, was born in
Maryland, Aug. 9, 1800. He went from there to
Ohio, and thence to Illinois, in 1827, and became an
early settler of this State. He was a miller by trade,
and he and his brother built the first mill erected
in that region. About 1833 he sold his interest
in it, and came to Woodford County, as one of its
early pioneers. He located in what is now Worth
Township, and bought a tract of land bordering
on Partridge Creek, now included in the home-
stead occupied by our subject. He improved it
into one of the best farms in this locality, and made
it his home till his death, May 11, 1875. The
maiden name of his wife was Phebe Ayers, and she
en me to this State with her father, Francis Ayers,
who was one of the very first settlers of Woodford
County. She is still living on the old home-
stead, having attained the venerable age of eighty-
four years. Under her eyes has passed the entire
growth of the count}', and it has been her pleasure to
witness the construction of many fine farms from
the wild prairies, and the springing tip of flourish-

298

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

ing towns where wolves, panthers, deer, and other
wild animals used to roam at will. Mrs. Wagner
has spent her entire life on the old homestead, and
in the home of her parents received the careful
instruction that has made her a good housewife,
and eminently capable of presiding over a home
of her own.

Mr. Wagner is well worthy of the success that
has come to him as a first-class agriculturist, as lie
thoroughly understands his work, and supervises
its every detail himself, and employs none but the
best methods and the most approved machinery.

HRISTIAN SCHERTZ is well -dowered with
firmness, independence, activity and enter-
prise, which characteristics render him an
important member of the farming community of
Woodford, his native county. He is the proprie-
tor of one of the most desirable farms in Roanoke
Township, and he is conducting his agricultural
interests after the most approved methods so as to
obtain the best results.

Our subject was born in Worth Township. Jan.
29, 1842. His father, David Schertz, was born in
Alsace, France, (ceded to Prussia) and grew to
man's estate in the country of his birth. He came
to America, when a young man, in 1837, and com-
ing to AVoodford County, became an early settler
of Worth Township. He was a single man at the
time, but subsequently married, and on the tract of
wooded land that he purchased he built a log house,
and there he and his bride commenced life together,
and in that humble abode their children were born.
They probably had no stove and the good wife
used to cook their savory meals before the fire in
the open fire place. In the month of January, 1851,
the husband and father was stricken by death. He
left his family in limited circumstances, but the
mother bravely kept her children together, work-
ing and toiling to support and rear them in the
proper manner, till ea.;h became independent and
married, and had homes of their own. and then she
went to live with her daughter, Mrs. John Smith.

in Metamora Township, and her life was brought
to a close in January, 1885. Her maiden name
was Catherine Bachmann, and she was a native of
Alsace. Her father, Henry Bachmann, was a na-
tive of the same country, and there spent his entire
life. The mother of our subject came to America
with a sister and brother. There were six children
born of her marriage, of whom five are living.

The subject, of this sketch was nine years old
when his father died, and the next two years he
lived with a neighbor, and then returned to the old
homestead, and being a manly, self-reliant little
lad, was of great assistance to his mother in the
management of the farm, and thus gained a
thorough, practical knowledge of farming. He
continued to live with his mother and other mem-
bers of the family till 1866, when he married
and established a home of his own. At first he
rented a farm on section 18, Roanoke Township,
but two years later he bought and located on his
present farm. A small shanty was the only dwell-
ing or house on the place, and 100 acres of the
land broken, constituted the only improvements.
Mr. Schertz has wrought a great change by persis-
tent and downright hard labor, and now has the
entire tract of 200 acres under admirable cultiva-
tion, and he has erected substantial frame build-
ings, and everything about the farm is in good
order and shows the presence of a master's hand.

Mr. Schertz and Miss Magdalena Schertz were
united in marriage March 11, 1866, and they have
one child David, who was born Dec. 25, 1867.
Mrs. Schertz's father, Christian Schertz, was born
in the Province of Lorraine, when it was a part of
France, his birthplace being thirty miles from Metz.
His father, Christian Schertz was a native of that
country, and spent his entire life there. Mrs.
Schertz's father came to America in 1837, in early
manhood ; a brother, who had come here previously
sending him the money to pay his passage. He
landed at New Orleans, and came thenne to Peoria,
and there procured employment by the day or
month, and finally invested his savings in a horse
and wagon and commenced teaming. There was
but little money in circulation in this State then,
and he used to take his pay in goods and black-
smith work. lie would occasionally get a few dol-

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

299

lars in cash when settlers came along and employed
him to take them to this county. One year he
only obtained $10 in cash for his year's work, tak-
ing the rest of his pay in trade. lie continued to
live in Peoria till 1851, and then bought land three
miles north-cast of Washington, in Tazewell
County. A part of the land was broken and a
small house stood on the place; when lie moved on
to it, he engaged in further improvement. lie
carried on farming there until his- death, Oct. 26,
1878. The maiden name of his wife was Cather-
ine Engcl, and she was born thirty miles from
Strasburg in the German province of Alsace, while
it was under the dominion of France, March 1,
1819, being the date of her birth. Her father,
John Engel, was born in the same place, and' was
reared and married and lived there until 1837.
In that year he came to America with his wife and
three children, setting sail from Havre, and land-
ing in New York after a voyage of six weeks.
He came directly to Illinois by the way of the
Hudson River, Albany and Erie Canal to Buffalo,
thence by Lake Erie to Cleveland, and from there
on the canal to Cincinnati, and from there to his
destination by the way of the Ohio, Mississippi and
Illinois rivers. After his arrival at Peoria, he set
out for this county and bought a tract of Govern-
ment land in Worth Township, and built a log
house with home-made furniture. He made a bed-
stead by inserting poles into holes that he had
bored in the logs that formed the walls of the
house, the other end of the poles being supported
by posts. He had no horses and did all his farm
work and marketing with oxen. He died May
12, 1871. The maiden name of his wife was Mag-
dalena Fry, and she was born in Freiburg, France,
now in Prussia and died on the home farm in 1864.
The mother of Mrs. Schertz was eighteen years old
when she came to America with her parents, and
now resides with her children, of whom she has
eight John, Magdalena, Joseph, Kate, Christian,
Andrew, Peter and Annie.

The clear well-balanced mind of our subject, and
his good business qualifications, combined with tact
and energy, have been important factors in bring-
ing about his success in life, and making him a
worthy representative of the native-born element

of Wood ford County, that is so prominent in sus-
taining and extending its material prosperity. The
members of his family are consistent and valued
members of the Omish Mennonite Church.

EV. GEORGE M. FREESE, whose home is
located on section 35, Cruger Township, is
a son of Jacob and Polly (Young) Freese.
~ Jacob Freese was a native of Pennsylvania,
where he was born in 1799. His wife was a Vir-
ginian, having been born in that State, about the
year 1802. Their home was in Pickaway County,
Ohio, where they continued to reside, never chang-
ing their abode till death took them to their home
above.

Our subject was the eldest of a family of three
children. He was born in Pickaway County, Ohio,
March 6, 1825. He was employed until manhood,
in the usual occupations of young people on a farm,
going to school part of the year, and the other part
straying in the woods and by the streams, when not
engaged in assisting his parents in their work. In
1858 he came to Woodford County, 111., and set-
tled in what is now Montgomery Township, three
years; later he removed to Cruger Township, where
he located, and has since been one of its most val-
uable residents. He began preaching the Gospel,
at intervals in Illinois. In September, 1865, he
was ordained to the regular ministry. His work
extended into McLean, Logan, Marshall and Wood-
ford counties. He owns 162 acres in this county, on
which he has erected a dwelling and other good
buildings, having also fences, orchards and shrub-
bery. In addition Mr. Freese owns three eighties
(210 acres), in Livingston County.

Jan. 6, 1848, witnessed the marriage of our sub-
ject and Miss Lavinia Long, who assumed the
duties and responsibilities of matrimony, in Fair-
field County, Ohio. Mrs. Freese is a daughter of
Abraham and Eleanor Long, of Ohio. She was
born in 1823, growing up into a gracious and lovely
womanhood. The family of our subject consisted
of nine children, named respectively: Lewis A.,

300

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

who, to his parents' great grief, departed this life
when a young man of twenty -three years; Zethan
E., whose death, when twenty-eight years old, was
another affliction his parents were called upon to
pass through; Elmina C.; George W., Levi J., La-
vinia V., Eleanor E., Huldah L., and Jennie M. E.
Politically, our subject is a warm supporter of
the third party, throwing all the weight of his in-
fluence and the means at his disposal into the great
conflict of the home against the saloon, heartily de-
siring to see the prohibition of the liquor traffic be-
come the law of the land.

EVI STl'MBAUGH occupies an honorable
position among the intelligent, wide-awake
farmers and stock-raisers of Illinois, who
were born, reared and educated within her borders,
and Wood ford County, has no more useful or estim-
able citizen. His farm on section 33, Panola Town-
ship, with its handsome residence, ample and con-
venient outbuildings, well tilled fields, and other
desirable improvements, is comparable with the
best in the locality. Mr. Stumbaugh is a represen-
tative of a well known pioneer family of Tazewell
County, and he was born there June 20, 1841, in
the early years of its settlement, in the comfortable
pioneer home of his parents, Samuel and Mary A.
(Barcus) Stumbaugh, natives respectively of Penn-
sylvania, and Columbus, Ohio. His father was of
German descent. He was reared in Ohio, and in
1835 came, in the opening years of a stalwart man-
hood, to Illinois, and for some time thereafter
made his home in Peoria, which was nothing but a
frontier fort at that time, built to protect the set-
tlers around it from marauding Indians, this State
ln'ing then in a very wild condition, with settle-
ments few and scattered, giving but little sign of
ils present greatness as one of the wealthiest and
most prosperous common wealths in the I'nion.
Mr. Stumbaugh engaged in operating a saw mill
till his return to Ohio, for his promised bride, to
whom he was joined in matrimony Aug. 20. 1810.
He immediately came back with her to this State,

and settled on a farm on section 25, Morton Town-
ship, Tazewell County, he having purchased its
160 acres of land from the Government at $1.25
an acre. It was timbered, and his first work was
to build a log cabin fora dwelling, before he entered
upon the hard task of clearing the land and prepar-
ing it for cultivation. During his residence on it
he built a better and more commodious house, in
which he lived till 1857, when he removed to
Montgomery Township, this county, where his
death occurred in 1880, he thus rounding out an
honorable life, of sixty -seven years, nine months and
twenty-five days, his birth having occurred in
Franklin County, Pa., March 25, 1812. As an
early pioneer of this part of Illinois, he performed
his share in reclaiming it from the wilderness, and
his name and memory will ever be held in rever-
ence by all who have an interest in the early history
of Illinois, and in its rise and progress. We take
the following from a contemporary newspaper, an
account of his death, and concerning his domestic
relations: "On the 5th day of September, 1851,
Mary Ann, his first wife (mother of our subject)
departed this life. On the 12th of Feb., 1854, he
was married to Mrs. Mary Jane Merritt, daughter
of Mr. Joseph Boucher, of this county. She lived
only till the 24th of November, of the same year.
He was again married the 7th of July, 1857, to
Nancy Jane McPeak, who still survives him." He
was the father of eight children, of whom the fol-
lowing are still living: Elizabeth, wife of W. A.
Moore, of Tazewell County; Levi ; Ellen, wife of
W. M. Phillips, of Nebraska; Isabel, wife of S. W.
Myers, of Eureka, 111. We quote further from the
same article just referred to: ' Mr. Stumbaugh was
a man of considerable property, and was much
esteemed by his friends and neighbors. His re-
mains were buried from the Buctoye Methodist
Episcopal Church, Tuesday morning, the Rev.
J. A. Souders, of Deer Creek, officiating."

Levi Stumbaugh, of whom we write, was reared
to his majority amid the pioneer scenes of his
native county, and has himself done much pioneer
labor since starting out into.the world to make his
own living. He was but eight years old when he
lost the tender care of his beloved mother, and nt
sixteen years of age he began life for himself, being

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

a manly, stalwart lad. self-reliant, and self-lielpfiil.
At that age he began to learn the carpenter's trade,
and worked at that some five years. Oct. 30, 1863,
was the date of a pleasant event in his life, as at
that time he was united in wedlock to Miss Hannah
Ramsey, who has since been to him all that a faith-
ful, capable woman can be to the man witli whom
she unites her life. Four of their five children
are living: Charles, married Sarah James of Dele-
van, 111.; he also resides at that place. They have
one son, George James Stumbaugh; Mollie, became
the wife of August Kridner; they are also residents
of Panola Township, and have two sons, Levi
and Frank. Levi and May; and one died in
infancy. Mrs. Stumbaugh is a native of this
county, born Feb. 14, 1842, to James and Susan
(Brown) Ramsey, pioneers of Woodford County.
Her father was a native of Ohio, and was of mingled
Scotch and Irish ancestry, while her mother's an-
cestors were probably Germans. Her great-uncle,
Joseph Davis, was a soldier in the war of 1812.
Her mother was a native of Maryland. To her par-
ents were born ten children, seven of whom are liv-
ing: Lydia, the widow of George McCloud, of Olio
Township; Mrs. Stumbaugh; Mary, wife of William
Oberlander, of Panola; Washington, a resident of
Missouri; William lives in Missouri; Samuel, a resi-
dent of California; Joseph, of Strawn, 111.; Nancy,
the oldest child, married John Small, and died in
March, 1889. Mrs. Stumbaugh's parents came from
Ohio to Tazewell Count3 T in 1839, and after living
there a short time,they located inMontgomery Town
ship, this county ,and were among its earliest settlers,
and died there a number of years ago, having done
their share in advancing the growth of this part of
Illinois.

Our subject came from his old home in Tazewell
County, to this county in 1871. and located on sec-
tion 11, Panola Township. Me made his home
there several years till his removal to his present
farm, which comprises 345 acres of excellent land,
highly improved, and provided with substantial
buildings, including a fine residence, conveniently
arranged barn, and other necessary outhouses to
correspond, and it is rightly classed among the best
farms in the township. Mr. Stumbaugh makes a
speciality of raising superior stock, his cattle and

horses being of high grade, and some of the latter
being blooded animals might be registered.

Mr. Slumbaugh is a prudent, conservative, bus-
iness man. managing his affairs with discretion, and
is considered one of our most useful citizens. He
1ms accumulated the most of his property himself,
though he inherited a share of his father's estate.
In him the Democratic party finds a faithful sup-
porter. He favors all practical schemes that will
in any way benefit the township, and while serving
as School Director and two terms as School Trustee,
has endeavored to advance the cause of local edu-
cation.

We invite the attention of our numerous readers
to a fine view of the handsome residence and farm
of our subject on another page of this volume.

HIOMAS ALFRED McCORD is the oldest
resident in point of settlement now living
in Woodford County. He has witnessed its
entire development from the wilderness, and has
seen busy towns spring up, and fruitful farms
evolved, where once in the vigor of early manhood
he used to delight in hunting deer and other wild
animals that then roamed the prairie, or haunted
the groves and forests. Our subject is the son of
one of the earliest pioneers of the county, and has
himself done much pioneer work, actively assisting
in the development of the marvelous resources of
this region, and thus helping to make it a great
agricultural center. He has a plensant home in
Roanoke Township, in which he is quietly passing
the declining years of a useful life in well-earned
ease and comfort, he r.ud his worthy wife meriting
the esteem and respect in which they are held by
the entire community.

Mr. McCord was born in Overton County, Tenn.,
May, 30, 1809, while his father, William McCord,
was born in North Carolina, March 27, 1788. The
grandfather of our subject, James McCord, was a
native of Ireland, born July 27, 1741, and became
to America in Colonial times with his parents when
four years of age. From the best information at

302

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

hand, it is gathered that the great-grandparents of
our subject located in North Carolina, and there
his grandfather was reared to ma-.i's estate. He
learned the blacksmith's trade, and carried it on
in North Carolina, until his removal to Overton
County, Tenn., of which he was a pioneer. The
removal wns made with teams across the mountains,
and after his arrival he bought, a tract of land in
the primeval forests, and settling in the wilderness
whither a few people had preceded him, he worked
at his trade, cleared his land, and continued a resi-
dent of the county until his demise Nov. 4, 1824.
The maiden name of his wife was Jane Scroggs.
She was born April 18, 1750, and died in North
Carolina, Nov. 12, 1789. Seven of their children
were reared to maturity, among whom were three
sons John, James and William.

William, the father of our subject, was eighteen
years old when the family moved to Tennessee.
He had learned the trade of a blacksmith of his
father, and followed that trade in Overton County,
Tenn., until 1827, when he emigrated to Illinois, ac-
companied by his wife and eight children. The re-
moval was made with teams, starting the 7th of
June, and arriving at Twin Grove, McLean County,
several weeks later. Four other families accom-
panied them, and they camped out on the way
when night overtook them. The father bought a
squatter's claim to a tract of land in Twin Grove,
and there being no buildings on it, he at once
erected a log cabin, splitting puncheon for the floor
and making clapboards for the roof and door.
There were no settlements in McLean County then,
except in the groves, and the land was nearly all
owned by the Government. On the present site of
lUoomington, was one log cabin, the only habita-
tion far and near. There were no flouring mills in
that section of the country at that time, the only
mill of any description being a corn-cracker at
Twin Grove, operated by horse-power. The prin-
cipal diet of the pioneers was corn meal and wild
game. Mr. McCord commenced at once to clear a
part of the grove, and the following 3'ear raised a
crop of corn, planting it the 1st of June, and it
ripened and made a go >:1 crop. He was unable to
enter the land, and whe.i it came into the market
it was entered by other parties, and for that reason

in 1831, he vacated the place, and came to what is
now Woodford County, and made a claim before
the land was surveyed in what is now called Greene
Township. He built a log house on the place,
which is still standing, and is probably the oldest
building now in the county. When the land came
into the market he entered it at the land office at
Danville. He built a shop on the place, and
worked at his trade a part of the time, and devoted
the remainder to the task of improving a farm un-
til bis death, June 13, 1852. He was a man of
sterling principles, and possessed excellent quali-
ties of head and heart, and by his death an upright
citizen and a kind neighbor, was lost to his com-
munity, and his family were deprived of a good
husband and father. The maiden name of his wife
was Jane McMurtry, and she was born in South
Carolina, July G, 1789. Her father, William Mc-
Murtry, was, it is thought, born in England. Af-
ter coining to this, country, he located first in South
Carolina, and later in Overton County, Tenn.. of
which he was a pioneer. He removed from there
about 1813, to Missouri, and became one of the
first settlers west of the Mississippi River. He was
a millwright by trade, and built a gristmill in that
part of the country, which he operated, and he
there spent the remainder of his days. He was a
man of deeply religious nature, and was a preacher
for many years. The mother of our subject died
at his home in Greene Township, Aug. 6, 1870, at
an advanced age. Twelve children were born of
her marriage, of whom the following eleven grew
to maturity: James S., Thomas A., Nancy E., Me-
linda, William M., Cyrus, Elizabeth, John O., Mel-
mon, Allen A., and Francis.

The subject of this sketch was eighteen years old
when he came to Illinois with his parents, so that
he has a distinct recollection of the pioneer life
here in the early days of settlement. The Kicka-
poo and Delaware Indians were then living at the
head of the Mackinaw River, and deer, wolves, and
other kinds of wild animals were plenty for some
years. When the family settled at Twin Grove,
Peorin, was known as Ft. Clark, and at Pekin, there
were but few log houses. In 1832 our subject vol-
unteered for service in the Black Hawk War, and
after a campaign of thirty days, returned home.

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

303

He resided with his parents until the month of De-
cember, 1 840, and then he married and located on
a tract of Government land joining his father's
farm in Greene Township, entering the land at the
land office as soon as it came into the market. His
first work was to build a log house, in which he
and his bride commenced their married life. He
afterward replaced that humble dwelling by a more
rommodious frame house, and completed the pio-
neer task of developing a farm from the wild un-
cultivated prairies. He placed his land under fine
tillage, so that it yields abundant harvests, and
made many substantial improvements, thus greatly
increasing its original value, and making it one of
Ihe best farms in the neighborhood. From its
cultivation he made n'oney and accumulated a com-
fortable competence, and in 1877 rented it, and
retired to private life. He came to Roanoke and
purchased his present neat, pleasant home, and has !
ever since been an honored resident of this village.

On Dec. 2, 1840, Mr. McCord and Miss Sarah A.
Arnold were united in marriage, and for nearly
fifty years they have walked the path of life to-
gether hand in hand, sharing its joys, and dividing
its sorrows. They have two children living: Will-
iam M., who married Mary C. Uay, and has three
children Nettie, Willie, and Alma; Samira. who
married Stephen E. Gibson, of Greene Township,
and has six children Ida J., Eva May, Clarence L.,
Thomas A., Zela, and Ralph. Our subject and his
wife have been bereft of two of their children
James Alfred, and Nancy J.

Mrs. McCord was born in Franklin County, Ky.,
June 13, 1818. Her father, James Arnold, was
born in the same county, and was a son of John
Arnold, who was a native of either Virginia or
Kentucky. His father, James Arnold, Mrs. Mc-
Cord's great-grandfather, is supposed to have been
a native of Virginia, who became one of the earl-
iest settlers of Kentucky, lie purchased a tract of
timber land four miles from Frankfort, on the
Kentucky River, and established a ferry across
that stream, which he managed many years, resid-
ing there until his death. Mrs. McCord's grand-
father was reared and married in Kentucky, and
remained a resident of that State until 1823. In
that year he removed to Putnam County, Ind.. and

was one of the early settlers of that section of the
country. He improved a farm there, on which he
resided until his death about 1837. The maiden
name of his wife was Elizabeth Nowell. She was
a native o f Kentucky, and spent her last years in
Putnam County, Ind. The father of Mrs. McCord
was a good mechanic, and worked a part of the
time at the stone-mason's trade, and also at
the shoemakers trade. In the year 1820 he removed
t-i Warren County, Tenn., with his family, and
lived there the ensuing five years, when he pulled
up his stakes and set out for Putnam County,
Ind., the removal in both cases being made with
team. He bought a tract of forest-covered land,
on which he built a log cabin for a home for his
family. They had no stove, and Mrs. McCord's
mother did all her cooking by the fireplace, and
she also spun and wove all the cloth used in the
family. Mr. Arnold remained a resident of In-
diana, until 1830, when he once again became a
pioneer of a new State, selling his property there,
and removing with a team to Illinois, and loca-
ting in what is now Greene Township, Wood ford
County. The land was not in the market at the
time, but he bought a claim on which he lived
for awhile, and then removed to Lacon, Marshall
County, and engaged in farming there a few years.
After that he once more wended his way Westward,
this time to Iowa, and settling in Clark County as
a pioneer, took up a tract of Government land,
which he improved and occupied a few years. He
then sold, and returning to this county, resided in
Secor, a few years. He then spent his last years
with Mrs. McCord, dying in Roanoke. The maiden
name of Mrs. McCord's mother was Jane Good-
man, and she was born in Virginia, and d.ied in the
home of our subject, in Greene Township. Mrs.
McCord's maternal grandfather was James Good-
| man, and he was a native of Virginia, and a pio-
neer of Kentucky, and finall}- died in Tennessee.

Mr. McCord's life has been one of industrious
toil, which has been well repaid, as his work has
been guided by discretion, shrewdness, and excel-
lent judgment. He has alwaj-s displayed the quali-
ties which mark a good citizen, and has ever given
his allegiance to the Democratic party. During
his many years residence in Greene Township, he

304

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

took a conspicuous part in its government, and
filled various offices of trust, with ability. Mrs.
McCord is a worthy member of the Christian
Church, and her life is guided by principles of
piety and goodness.

ENRY LESCH is a member of the firm of
Lesch, Fitschen <fc Co., contractors and
builders, residing in Washburn. Our sub-
ject established himself in this business in
1878, and being a skilled mechanic, having a thor-
ough knowledge of his calling in all its details, has
won the confidence of the people, and has gained
an enviable reputation as one of the leading con-
tractors of this part of the county. He was born
in Hessen, Germany. Feb. 21, 1851. His father,
Wiegent Lesch, was born in the same place in 1815.
He learned the trade of a tailor, which he followed
many years, spending his entire life in his native
country. The maiden name of his wife, the mother
of the subject of this sketch, was Mary Wink. She
was born in the same village as her husband and
spent her whole life within its precincts.

The subject of this sketch and his sister Mary
and sister Elizabeth, were the only children living.
Elizabeth married William Kiel, and lives in Lacon.
Mary is married and lives in the old country. He
of whom we write attended school the most of the
time from the age of five to fourteen, and gained a
substantial education in the excellent schools of his
native village. He continued to live with his
parents till he was sixteen years old, and then re-
solved to come to America, to see what life held for
him in this great country, the Mecca of so many of
his countrymen. Being without means he was
obliged to borrow money with which to defray the
expenses of his passage, so that when he arrived in
Illinois, he was not only without funds, but was
100 in debt. He at once found employment on
n farm, and worked out by the month in Putnam
and Marshall counties, (ill 1872. He then went
to McLean County, to learn the carpenter's trade.

and after working there for a time he went to
Marshall County, and was employed as a jour-
neyman till 1878. In that year he formed a part-
nership with Anton Ehringer, in Washburn, to carry
on the business of contractor and builder. In
January, 1889, Mr. Ehringer retired from the firm,
and the Fitschen Bros., purchased an interest in the
business, and have continued with our subject ever
since. They employ a number of men in their
building operations, and aside from their business
as contractors have a profitable trade in lumber,
paints, oils, and, in fact, all kinds of builders' sup-
plies.

Mr. Lesch was married March 12, 1878, to Miss
Mary Moschel, a native of Illinois, and a daughter
of John and Mary (Sandmeyer) Moschel. (For
parental history see sketch of George Moschel.)
Five children have blessed the marriage of our sub-
ject and his wife, namely : John H., W. George,
Dora E., Emma M., Walter W.

Mr. Lesch is a representative self-made man, and
while busily engaged in building up his own for-
tunes, has in no small degree contributed to the fi-
nancial prosperity of his place of residence. His
push, energy and correct judgment have been im-
portant factors in his success in life, lie was reared
in the faith of the Lutheran Church, and his wife
in that of the Reformed Church. He was for many
years a Republican, but of late has affiliated with
the Democratic party.

pRCHIE McSPARRAN, one of the self-
made men of this county, resides on sec-
tion 4, Minonk Township. Coming here
in 1857, he bought 160 acres from the Illi-
nois Central Railroad, paying $17 per acre. At
that time the land was raw prairie, but falling to
work with a good will, he has succeeded in paying
for his land, which was bought on the credit sys-
tem, and has made all the improvements necessary
to bring up his farm to a fine and prosperous con-
dition. He hni< erected the usual buildings re-
quired on a farm, putting them up substantially

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

305

and tastefully. His family residence is a dwelling
planned for convenience and comfort, and is the
home of as contented and cheerful a family as can
be found in the township.

Our subject was born in County Derry, Ireland,
in 1813. being the son of Archie and Margaret
(Scott) McSparran. He was reared on his father's
farm, enjoying but limited advantages in the way
of an education, but employing his time usefully
at whatever he could find to do, either in the way
of work or study. Like many of his countrymen,
he grew tired waiting for better times to come to
his native place, so in 1839 he gathered up his be-
longings, and came to America. On his arrival he
secured work on Long Island. Then, thinking to
better his condition, he went to .Pennsylvania,
working in the different blast furnaces connected
with the iron industry in various parts of the
State. He was pleased with the country, and in-
duced his parents and the remainder of the family
to come to the United States. His parents estab-
lished themselves in Blair County, Pa., on a farm,
where the father died. His mother then came to
Illinois, dying in her eighty-eighth year at her son's
home in Minonk.

The parental family consisted of seven children,
four of whom were bo3'S: Archie; William, who
died leaving a family in Iowa; Priscilla now re-
sides with our subject; John died at Lacon, 111.;
Mary .1. resides in Minonk; 'Joseph died in Minonk;
and Esther, who resides in Kansas. Our subject
worked diligently in Pennsylvania for many years,
until hearing of cheaper lands in the West, he
concluded to remove where he could pursue the
occupation of his youth, rightly judging that agri-
culture offered a better opportunity for a poor man
to rise, than anything else in which he could en-
gage.

Politically, Mr. McSparran is a stalwart Repub-
lican, and takes a deep interest in the welfare of
his adopted country. In religion he agrees fully
with his Scotch-Irish ancestry, being an intelligent,
earnest and devoted member of the Presbyterian
Church, in which communion his family also find
their religious home. In addition to general farm-
ing, Mr. McSparran pays considerable attention to
stock-raising, using his shrewd good sense to sup-

ply what the market demands. Our subject is an
honor to his adopted country, and a living evidence
of what thrift combined with temperance can ac-
complish, in building up a comfortable fortune in a
country where the Government does not crush out
all the energies of the people by excessive tyranny.

HOMAS JOHN, a worthy and highly re-
spected citizen of Metamora Township, was
formerly actively connected with its farm-
ing interests, but having acquired a competence
through the successful management of his farm, a
fine and highly productive tract of land in this
township, he retired to his present neatly-arranged,
cozy home, located on section 21, where he and
his sister Caroline are passing life pleasantly, sur-
rounded by all the comforts and luxuries that they
require, and free from the cares and burdens in-
cident to tilling the soil.

Mr. John is descended from respectable Welsh
stock, his grandfather, William John, having emi-
grated from Wales to this country, and become a
pioneer of West Virginia, buying a tract of tim-
ber land in the wilds, and making his home there
till he was summoned thence by death. His son
Lewis, father of our subject, was born and reared
in that county to a stalwart manhood, and when he
came to settle in life he located on a tract of heav-
ily wooded land that he had inherited from his
father, and in the log house that he and his bride
commenced their wedded life, all their children
were born. They having no cook-stove, an almost
unheard of luxury in those days in that part of
the country, the mother cooked the meals by the
fire in the open fireplace, and it was her bus}' hand
that spun and wove the wool, flax and tow into
cloth, with which she fashioned all the garments
worn by her family. The father was always em-
ployed in cultivating his land, and he hewed out a
substantial farm from the primeval forests of that
region. His useful life was brought to a close by
his death, Sept. 22, 1839, when he left his dear
ones to mourn the loss of a tender husband and a

306

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

kind father, and his neighbors deplored the loss of
good friend. His wife survived him twenty years,
passing away at the home, at Metamora, 111., in
1859. Her maiden name was Elizabeth Thomas,
and she was a native of Culpeper County, Va.
Her father was a native of Wales, but spent his
last years in Virginia, There were five children
bom to the parents of our subject, of whom the
following four grew to maturity: Eliza A., who
died July 16, 1884; Thomas, of whom we write;
James, a physician, aow deceased; Caroline, the
youngest member of the family, who makes her
home with her brother. James came to Illinois,
and locating in Metamora, practiced his profession
here, and then went to Roanoke, and opened an
office there. He was finally obliged to give up his
practice on account of ill-health, and spent the last
three or four years of his life with his brother
Thomas and sister Caroline, dying May '26, 1881.
Thomas John, the subject of this brief bio-
graphical review, was born March 2, 1820, amid
the beautiful scenes in Monongahela County,
W. Va.. on the old homestead that belonged to his
father, and he was there reared to man's estate,
gleaning an education in the old log schoolhouse,
where the school was conducted on the subscrip-
tion plan. After his father's death the manage-
ment of the home farm fell to. him, and he was
successfully engaged in carrying it on until 1858,
when he sold out there, having resolved to try
farming on the rich, alluvial prairies of Illinois.
The mother and sisters came by the way of the
Ohio, Mississippi and Illinois rivers to Peoria. and
thence by stage to Metamora, while he came over-
land, the journey consuming twenty-four days.
The family located on a tract of raw prairie land
on section 27, Metamora Township, this county,
which the brother of our subject, who had been
here previously, had purchased prior to the ar-
rival of the other members of the family. Our
subject, with the help of others, at once commenced
the pioneer task of building a house and preparing
the land for cultivation. He improved the entire
tract of land, developing a fine, well-appointed
farm, that yielded abundant harvests in repayment
for the hard labor he bestowed on its tillage. Mr.
John and his sister continue:! to reside on it till

1881, when he decided to retire from farming, and
he then bought his present place of residence.
There is a comfortable set of frame buildings here
and ten acres of land, pleasantly located one mile
east of town.

Mr. John inherited from a sterling Welsh ances-
try, industrious and sober habits, and those good
traits of character that make him a desirable citi-
zen, a good neighbor and a kindly, honest man,
whom his fellow-men can but trust and respect.

ETER ROTH. America has become the
home of very many foreigners, and among
them all, none have more heartily made
themselves a part of the nation, and
more firmly identified themselves with the country
of which they are residents, than those men and
women who have come from the little province of
Alsace. They are usually industrious, intelligent
and devoted to the interests of their adopted home.
To this class the subject of our sketch belongs.
Alsace was his birthplace, and the date of his birth
was Feb. 12, 1829. His parents were Nicholas and
Anne Roth. lie can scarcely recollect his father,
as death removed him from the family group
when our subject was only four years of age.
Three years after his mother had been left a widow,
she took her family of small children, of whom Mr.
Rotli is the third in order of birth, and sought a
home across the ocean. They took passage in a
sail-vessel at the port of Havre, and for the suc-
ceeding forty-two days were braving the storms of
the Atlantic, finally reaching land and anchoring
at New York City. The mother with her children
came West to iJutler County, Ohio, and there located
for a time. Our subject was early compelled to
earn his own living, as they had little of this
world's goods, but being strong and healthy, he
was successful in supporting himself and adding to
the comforts of his mother's house. When a boy
lie received limited educational advantages, as
through a mistaken idea of economy the teachers
of that day were scarcely less ignorant than the

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

307

pupils. Besides that, our subject was compelled to
work most of the year, and so the education which
he has received has been obtained since he has
reached manhood. He is well- read on all the princi-
pal topics of interest of this day, and besides is well-
informed concerning the past history of his own
country, and also that of his adopted homo. He
has been a farmer ever since he was tall enough
to grasp the handle of the plow, and in the depart-
ment of agriculture is especially well-read. Al-
though having no political aspirations, Mr. Roth
has been prevailed upon to hold several local of-
fices, including those of Road Commissioner and
School Director. He supports the Democratic
ticket, and is in full sympathy with their views.
Religiously he and his family are consistent mem-
bers of the Evangelical Church, of which they are
regular attendants. Socially they are welcomed
into the most select circles of society, and entertain
the best people of the county, in their pleasant and
hospitable manner.

Mr. Peter Roth passed the first seven years of
his life in his native land, and then accompanied
his mother to America, where he grew to manhood
in Butler County, Ohio. When sixteen years of
age he commenced to " paddle his own canoe," and
has handled the oars to the greatest advantage
ever since. At first he was a farm laborer, receiv-
ing his wages by the month and year, and con-
tinued in this way for twelve years or more. In
1856 he came West to Tazowell County, 111., and
was a resident there for many years. Soon after
arriving in that county he established a home of
his own, being united in marriage with Miss Bena,
daughter of Jacob and Barbara Naffziger. This
lady was born Jan. 8, 1837, in Butler County,
Ohio, although her parents were natives of Ger-
many. When she was one year of age her parents
removed to Woodford County, 111., and made their
home in Worth Township, being early settlers in
that county. Mr. and Mrs. Naffziger did not re-
main in Worth Township, but afterward settled in
Panola Township, where the remainder of their
lives was passed, and where they died, the father on
March 5, 1888, and the mother a number of years
ago.. They were for a long time prior to their de-
cease, members of the Evangelical Church. Mr.

and Mrs. Roth were married Feb. 8, 1857, and are
the parents of eight children, namely: Lydia, who
became the wife of John Krug, a resident of Panola
Township; Daniel, also a resident of Panola Town-
ship; John, Jacob, Peter (deceased), Emma, Amelia
and Ella, all at home.

Accompanied by his family, in 1873 Mr. Roth
changed his abode from Tazewell County, to
Woodford County, where he has since been an
honored and prosperous citizen. When he settled
on his present farm on section 16, in Panola Town-
ship, it was in appearance very different from what
may be seen to-day. Then it was little changed
from the primitive condition of nature, scarcely
cultivated and little improved, but now he owns
320 acres of fine land, covered with grain in the
summer, and dotted here and there with substantial
farm buildings. Upon it he has erected a comfort-
able home, filled with all the necessities and many
of the luxuries of life. Mr. Koth is among the
leading representative Alsatian-American citizens,
and is in full sympathy with our Republican form
of government.

STEPHENS, a resident of Linn,
''^presents the industrial interests of Wood-
ford County, as a shrewd, capable farmer,
and as a successful manufacturer of tile. He has
been variously identified with the agriculture, com-
merce and manufactures of this part of Illinois
since the days of 1854, and, though not an early
settler, may be classed among the enterprising,
energetic pioneers who have done so much toward
placing this county in the front ranks of the coun-
ties of this State, as regards development and a
flourishing and prosperous condition.

Our subject was born in the town of Coeymans,
Albany Co., N. Y., Jan. 11, 1829. His father,
Archibaldus Stephens, was a native of the same
town, while his father, bearing the same name, was
born in Rensselaer County, and was there reared in
pioneer days. It is said that his father gave him
a tract of land among the primeval wilds of Scho-

308

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

harie County, and that he went to occupy it, but
in that sparsely settled region he found the wolves
so plentiful and troublesome, pursuing him at
every opportunity, and making life a burden to
him, that he wisely concluded to return to more
civilized parts. lie then took up his abode in Al-
bany County, where he purchased the half of a
township, and being a man of uncommon energy,
perseverance and enterprise, possessing great powers
of endurance, and a fine physique, he became very
prosperous, and was one of the leading citizens of
the place, and held many prominent offices of
trust. He erected a saw and gristmill, and en-
gaged extensively in the manufacture of lumber,
etc., while superintending the improvement of a
large farm. He was a man of great influence und
secured the appointment of the father of our sub-
ject as cadet to the military academy at West
Point from his district, and he was graduated from
that institution in due time, and was appointed
captain of the State militia. He subsequently
turned his attention to farming on his retirement
from the army, and spent his last years on his
farm, dying in 1869. He was too old and feeble
at the breaking out of the late Civil War to take
any part in it. Doubtless, if the war had occurred
in his younger days, he would have been an in-
valuable officer, as his knowledge of military tac-
tics was accurate, and he was a man of spirit and
patriotism. The maiden name of the mother of
our subject was Harriet Haines, and she was a
native of the same township as her husband, a
daughter of Stephen Haines. a prominent pioneer
of Albany County. He bought a large tract of
land there amid the primeval forests, and resided
in that locality many years. He spent his last
days in Long Island. The mother of our subject
is still living in her old home in Albany County,
and is now aged and venerable. Eight of the chil-
dren born of her pleasant wedded life were reared
to maturity.

Edward, of whom we write, grew to man's estate
in the town of his nativity, and received an excel-
lent education in the local schools. At the age
of twenty-one he entered into the mercantile busi-
ness in that place, and was thus profitably engaged
till 1854. In that year the ambitious young man,

desiring a broader field for the exercise of his tal-
ents, resolved to try life in the great West, and
decided to cast his lot with the pioneers of Illinois,
for this State had not even then wholly emerged
from its original wildness, although it had been
in the hands of the white man for many years.
After his arrival here, he turned his attention to
farming, buying land in Marshall County, and was
thus engaged till the breaking out of the war, and
then he resumed mercantile pursuits once more,
managing stores at Lacon and Sparland for Messrs.
Fisher & Chapman for a time. His next venture
was as a grain merchant, he being employed in
buying grain for the army. After the war he
went to Roanoke and bought property, and carried
on a mercantile business besides superintending
other interests, he being one of the first two mer-
chants to locate there. Before the war he had
bought land in Lynn Township, now included in
his present farm, and in 1862 he established his
j home on it. At the time of his purchase it was in
a wild condition, fresh from the hands of nature.
In the years that followed he spared neither time
nor expense in its improvement, erected an excel-
lent set of buildings, placed the land under fine
tillage, and to-day it is one of the best farms in
that locality. His property in Roanoke is still in
his possesssion, and he owns other valuable prop-
erty in Washburn. In the year 1 883 he commenced
the manufacture of tile in Linn, and has conducted
this business successfully ever since. He has suit-
able buildings, with good machinery, and every
convenience for the manufacture of a superior
kind of tile, that meets with a ready sale, and for
which there is a large and growing demand among
the farmers throughout this part of Illinois.

Mr. Stephens was married, Feb. 6, 1850, to Miss
Susan R. KnitHn, and they have four children.
Their son William married Ann C'orbin, and they
have five children. Melvin married Ollie Smiley,
and the}' have four children; Josephine married
Leverett Wallace, and they have four children.
Mrs. Stephens has made our subject an admirable
wife, has taken an intelligent interest in his affairs,
and has made his home a pleasant retreat after the
cares and labors of a busy day. She is, like him-
self, a native of New York, born in Saratoga County,

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

309

Dec. 2, 1832. Her parents were Gilbert and Su- j
sannah (Wicks) Kniflin, both, so far as known,
natives of New York. The}' resided in .Saratoga
County for some years, and then removed to Al-
bany County, where they spent their last days.
Mrs. Stephens' maternal grandfather, Solomon
Wicks, was a farmer and mechanic, and died in
Greene County.

It will be seen in the perusal of this sketch that
our subject is a man of versatile talents, ready
adaptability and wide experience, who possesses
keen foresight and a well-trained capacity for busi-
ness, and that these much-to-be desired traits have
not only contributed to his own personal good for-
tune, but have been of inestimable value. in fur-
thering the various interests of the county. As a
good citizen, he takes a genuine interest in politi-
cal matters, and in early life was a believer in the
doctrines of the Whig party, and naturally on the
formation of the Republican party he fell into its
ranks, and has ever since been one of its stalwart
supporters.

N- CONVERSE < a sturdy repre-
sentative of the sons of New England, who
have aided so largely in the building up of
the Great West, is classed among the intelligent,
skilful farmers of Roanoke. who are most impor-
tant factors in promoting its material prosperity.
He owns and successfully manages a good, highly
productive farm on section 5, and here he and his
pleasant family are enjoying the comforts of a
coxy home.

The birthplace of our subject was far away amid
the beautiful hills of Vermont, in Graf ton, Wind-
ham County, and the date of his birth was Sept.
13, 1843. His father, Newton R. Converse, was
born on the same farm as himself, while his grand-
father, Robert Converse, was born and reared in
Marlboro, N. II. He crossed over into the Green
Mountain State when a young man, and buying a
tract of timbered land in Graf ton, settled down to
the hard life of a pioneer. A small piece of the

land was cleared, but there were no buildings on it.
He first constructed a rude log house and then
went back to New Hampshire for his promised
bride, Miss Edna Hale, a native of that State, then
but nineteen years old, two years his junior. They
commenced housekeeping in the aforementioned
primitive abode, and he cleared a good farm, on
which thej" made their home till deatli called them
to a better. The father of our subject was reared
in the home of his birth, and in due course of time
the old homestead come into his possession, and in
turn he brought his bride there, his parents living
with them till their demise. After a peaceful wed-
ded life of many years, the good wife died at the
old home in 1884. Her maiden name was Mary
Stuart, and she was a native of Londonderry, Vt.,
a daughter of Joseph Stuart, a miller, and later a
farmer, who spent his last years in Andover, Vt.
In 1887 the father of our subject sold the place of his
birth, where his entire life up to that time had been
passed, and then visited his children in Vermont.
Massachusetts, Michigan and Illinois, and finally
died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Wright, in
Groton, Mass., in August. 1888. He and his wife
were the parents of nine children, of whom five grew
to maturity and are now living, as follows: Mary
E., wife of the Rev. E. W. White, a Baptist minis-
ister in Jackson, Mich.; Martha, wife of Henry
Wright, of Groton, Mass.; Sarah and Clara, both
of whom are teachers.

Nelson Converse, of this sketch, was the first
born and is now the only son living. He was
reared and educated in his native county, having
good school advantages, and in the winter of I860
and 18C7 he utilized his knowledge by teaching.
He first visited Illinois in 1866, and in 1868 came
here to settle permanently, having been much im-
pressed with the many advantages of soil, climate,
etc. In 1869 he invested some of his money in the
farm that he still owns and occupies on section 5,
Roanoke Township. It comprises 120 acres of
choice land, under admirable tillage, so that it yields
abundant harvests, and is amply supplied with
buildings and all needed improvements.

Mr. Converse was married to Miss Alcesta T.
Hall, a native of New York, and a daughter of
Erastus and Mary Hall. Their pleasant wedded

310

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

life has been blessed to them by the l>irth of five
children, namely: Charles W., Edith E., Ethel C.,
Newton E. and Elmer R.

Mr. Converse possesses thrift, energy, a capacity
for well-directed labor, and other traits character-
istic of his New England origin, and he is classed
among the most deserving and useful members of
this community, both as a man and as a citizen.
His wife is a consistent member of the Baptist
Church, and Mr. Converse is never backward in
helping others less fortunate than himself. Politi-
cally, he is a stanch upholder of the Republican
party.

THOMAS CRIBBEN. The results of a long
and well-spent life are admirably illustrated
in the subject of this biography, who, in
1863 took up his residence in Palestine Township,
in company with his mother and step-father, and
thereafter labored assiduously and they succeeded
in the accumulation of a fine property.

Thomas Cribben was a native of the village of
Ballybane, parish of Annagh, of County Mayo,
Ireland. lie was born Jan 7, 1847, and is the son
of James Cribben, who was of pure Irish ancestry,
and a native of the parish of Baken, County Mayo,
and was reared to farming pursuits in his native
county. He there married Miss Bridget Tarpy,
who was born and reared not far from the home
of her husband in the same place as her son, and is
the daughter of William and Hanora (Raftery)
Tarpy, who were closely allied to some of the first
families of counties Mayo and Galwa}', where they
spent their entire lives. The mother was a native
of the city of Galway. The paternal grandfather
of the mother of our subject, was Thomas Tarpy,
who came of some of the best Irish blood, which
has been transferred to a number of American
families of the same name, and who figured promi-
nently botli in church and State.

Thomas Tarpy married Miss Margaret Murphy,
who was also a daughter of a family prominent in
County Mayo for more than 200 years, and, who
were closely allied to the O'Connor stock of Roscom-

mon County, of which the last monarch of Ireland
was a kinsman,and the celebrated Charles O'Connor,
of New York City, who died a few years ago, was
of the same family. The maternal grandfather of
our subject died when his daughter was a child of
eight years, leaving eight children to the care of
the widowed mother, who reared them carefully
and conscientiously to honest and worthy lives.

After their marriage in March, 1845, James Crib-
ben and his wife began house-keeping on the farm
in County Mayo, where their only child, Thomas,
our subject, was born. In 1849 they set sail for
America, embarking at Liverpool, and after a voy-
age of six weeks, and before the}' had reached their
destination, the husband and father died, after ten
days illness, and his remains were consigned to an
ocean burial. The mother and son pursued their
melancholy journey, finally reaching New York
City, and thence proceeded to Savannah, Ga., where
some of the father's relatives had settled. Mrs.
Cribben, however, suffering under a sense of loss
and bereavement, returned not long afterward to
her native land, where she remained two years,
then leaving her son with his grandmother, she
once more crossed the Atlantic, settling this time
in Philadelphia,Pa. Five years later she was married
to John Connell, a native of Black Rock, County
Cork, and who had emigrated to America when a
young man. Soon after their marriage Mr. and
Mrs. Connell came to Illinois, settling in Wood-
ford County. They came to the present farm in
1863, after having lived in LaSalle County fora
time. Their efforts in building up a home were
crowned with success, and they became well-to-do.
Mr. Connell died at his homestead April 17, 1879,
at the age of about sixty-five years. He was an
honest, hard working, temperate man, respected by
his neighbors. He voted the Democratic ticket and
in religion, was a Catholic. Mrs. Bridget Connell,
is a well preserved and an intelligent old lad}', and
an active worker in the Roman Catholic Church, in
which she has been reared from childhood.

Thomas Cribben was given a good education
while living with his grandmother in Ireland, under
the instruction of a gentleman, who had been his
mother's teacher in her girlhood, and who lived to
be over one hundred years old. He came when a

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

311

boy to America, in 1859, proceeding directly to
Rutland, La Salle Co. III., to his mother and step-
father. He has devoted his life in a great measure
to the care and comfort of his mother, to whom
he is more attached than to any woman living.
In consequence he remains unmarried. He is a
faithful adherent of the doctrines of the Roman
Catholic Church in which he was reared, and in
politics is an uncompromising Democrat. He has
held all the local offices and represented Palestine
Township in the County Board of Supervisors, and
is now a member of the Board, having represented
the township for five years.

|OHN DETWKILER, general farmer and
I stock- raiser, resides on a good farm of 120
acres, which is well improved and located
on section 21, Montgomery Township, to
which he came in 18G7 from section 10, same town-
ship, and has continued to live in this place until
the present. He came to Illinois in 1850 and after
living some months in this county, removed to
McLean County, and two years later returned to
this county, where he has remained ever since, lie
was born in the province of Lorraine in 1 838 on the
13th of August. He is therefore a Frenchman, al-
though this province is now a part of the German
Empire. The father of our subject, John Det-
weiler, was born in Bavaria, and was a miller by
trade. When sixteen years old he went to Lorraine
and was apprenticed to a miller to learn the trade,
and while a resident of that province, married Miss
Catherine A. Moser, who was born and reared in
Lorraine but came of German and Swiss ancestry.
After marriage this couple lived in Lorraine,
throughout their comparatively uneventful life,
the mother leaving the scene of her earthly pil-
grimage, when her son, our subject, was thirteen
months old. The father survived his faithful wife
some twenty years, when he too fell asleep and was
gathered to his fathers. Following the death of his
mother our subject was taken to the home of his un-
cle, Jacob Miller, and accompanied him to America
in 1850. They having no children of their own

adopted him, and to them he has always given a son's
love and devotion. On arriving in America, they
set out for the West and located in Montgomery
Township, this county, and while here Mrs.
Miller died July 18, 1889, being in her eighty. fifth
year. Mr. Miller still survives and makes his
home with his adopted son, Mr. John Detweiler.
Although seventy-eight years old he is yet active
and healthy and his cheerful hearty disposition
makes him a welcome and agreeable member of
the family of his son.

Our subject received the elements of a good edu-
cation in France, becoming a fluent conversation-
alist in German and French, and later became quite
proficient in the use of English and can still speak
all three languages. He was first married in this
county to Miss Elizabeth Gerber, a native of
Lorraine, and who came to America in 1846 while a
mere child, making the journey in the care of her
parents, who made only a short stop in New York,
coming at once to this county, where they built up
a comfortable home.

Mrs. Detweiler departed this life in 1883 being
then thirty-eight years old. leaving besides her hus-
band three children to mourn her loss Joseph,
John and Elizabeth, who are all at home. Mrs.
Detweiler was the daughter of John and Barbara
(Gerber) Gerber. The father died in this town-
ship several years ago. The mother is yet living
on a farm with her son.

Our subject was married a second time near Dry
Grove, McLean County, to Miss Elizabeth Miller,
a native of Bavaria, Germany, where she was born
Aug. 18, 1852, being a daughter of Peter and Eli-
zabeth ( Woelber) Miller, who were also natives of
Germany, the father being a farmer in that country
and coming to the United States with his family in
1868. Immediately on their arrival in New York,
they started Westward, locating in this county and
later removed to Dry Grove Township, McLean
County, where they yet reside.

Mr. Miller is seventy-two years of age and his wife
is sixty-eight, but although so old, they are yet vig-
orous and active and enjoy a fair share of health
and good spirits. They are devoted members of
the old school Mennonite Church, and reflect great
credit upon their religious principles.

312

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

Mrs. Elizabeth Detweiler, was reared and edu-
cated in Germany, where she received a good train-
ing in school and at home and came to this country
with her parents. Mr. and Mrs. Detweiler are the
parents of one child Ida Amelia. They are mem-
bers of the Mennonite Church and good, consistent
Christians. Mr. Detweiler takes very little active
part in political affairs, but has been prevailed upon
to accept some minor offices, which he fills with
credit, casting his ballot with the Republican party.

OHN J. SNYDER. Since the early days of
the settlement of Woodford County, the
Sn3'ders, from father to son unto the third
generation, have borne a prominent part in
bringing about its development and in advancing
its sturdy growth from the wilderness to its pres-
ent flourishing condition. The grandfather of our
subject, Nicholas Snyder, a native of Germany, was
one of the early pioneers of this county, coming
here with his wife and children before its organi-
zation as a county. (For further facts concerning
his life see sketch of John Snyder). His son Isaac,
father of our subject, was but a boy of "leven or
twelve years when they came from his birthplace
in the German Fatherland to this country, but
in a few years, under the influence of the pioneer
life that obtained here at that early da}', he grew
to a maul}', vigorous manhood, and took his place
among the pioneers who were building up the
county, and is to this day prominently connected
with its leading interests. We will now refer to the
position the subject of this sketch holds in regard
to this, his native county. He is identified with its
agriculture as a well-trained, intelligent farmer and
stock-raiser, who is conducting these interests very
prosperously on a part of the old homestead in
Partridge Township, where his birth occurred July
11, 1851.

Isaac Snyder, the father of our subject, was but
ten or twelve years of age when his parents brought
him from his birthplace in the German Fatherland
to this countiy. There were but few settlements in
this county, which then formed a part of Tazewell

County, and these were confined to the timber.
He grew to a vigorous, stirring manhood amid the
wild scenes where his parents had established their
home, remaining with them until he had attained
man's estate, and then finding employment at vari-
ous kinds of work elsewhere. Sometimes he was
engaged in chopping wood at twenty-five cents a
cord, at another in splitting rails for twenty-five
cents a hundred, and again plowing corn at twenty-
five cents a day. When he was twenty-one Horace
Crocker hired him to work for him, agreeing to give
him his board and $150 a year. He was employed b}'
him for six months in building dams across the Black
Partridge Creek, and several times when the dam
would be nearly completed, it would be washed out
by the water and all the work would have to be
done over again. Mr. Crockrr became discour-
aged and offered to sell his interest in the mill and
in 120 acres of land for $1,000, and Mr. Snyder
and his brother closed with his offer and paid $100
down and the balance in cash in nine years' time.
They succeeded in building a dam that withstood
the water and floods, and successful \y operated the
mill together two years. At the expiration of that
time Mr. Snyder traded his interest in it for land,
and turned his attention to farming. A few years
later he erected another saw and gristmill on the
Black Partridge and managed it with good finan-
cial results, on the same spot several, years. At
length he removed the machinery of the mill to
Roanoke, and introducing steam power, has oper-
ated a mill there ever since. In connection with
milling he lias been interested in farming very ex-
tensively, and owns large tracts of land in this
county. He is greatly interested in the Roanoke
Coal Company, being one of its largest stock-hold-
ers. He is a man of more than ordinary enterprise,
possessing a clear, cool head, and is accounted one
of the most successful men in the county, and he is
numbered among its wealthy, substantial citizens.
The maiden name of our subject's mother was Han-
nah Leighton, and she is a native of Ohio. Of the
children born of her pleasant wedded life four are
living, as follows: John J. our subject; Margaret,
wife of Samuel Ramsey; Kate, wife of Benjamin
Ellis; Isabelle, wife of Lewis J. Johnson.

As soon as large enough, the subject of this

/ y 7-

CM^^Uz4^ <=/ <z^tst&'??

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

317

sketch commenced to assist his father in the mill
and on the fnrm when not attending the public
schools, where lie gleaned a good education. He
remained an inmate of the parental household until
his marriage. This important event in his life took
place Sept. 19, 1876, on which date he was united
in the holy bonds of matrimony to Miss Catherine
B. Kisewether. She is a native of German}' and a
daughter of Michael and Mary Kisewether. Four
children complete the happy household circle of
our subject and his wife Rosa May, Josephus F.,
John Franklin and Essie Ellen.

Since taking charge of the homestead Mr. Snyder
has made many valuable improvements, among
which may be mentioned the sinking of two flow-
ing wells, one near the house and the other in the
pasture, from each of which a constant stream of
clear, cool water is sent forth the year round.

Mr. Snyder's career as an agriculturist, and as a
man and a citizen reflects credit on his native
township. As a man of genuine public spirit he
interests himself in everything that will in any way
promote its welfare, and contributes liberally to-
ward all plans for its improvement. As School
Director, educational matters in the township have
received careful attention from him. He has done
good service as Road Commissioner, and the excel-
lent highways in this locality are partly due to his
energetic labors while in that office. In politics he
stands among the Democrats, intelligently voting
the ticket of his party, and by voice advocating
its principles.

OHN TANTON. The career of the subject
of this notice has been one of phenomenal
prosperity. Gifted by nature with more
than ordinary business capacities, he has
arisen from a modest position in life to one of
wealth and prominence, and is among the largest
property holders in Woodford County. He is now
retired from active labor and occupies a comforta-
ble home in El Paso, of 'which he has been a resi-
dent the past eight years. He is the owner of

more than 2,000 acres of valuable land in this and
Livingston County, and has a large amount of
property in the vicinity of. El Paso, and Gridley,
McLean County. All of his property is well im-
proved and well tiled, thus adding to its financial
value, as well as to its appearance.

Mr. Tanton came to Illinois, as early as 1837 and
was one of the pioneers first venturing into this
county, and settling upon land which he purchased
of a pioneer, the original purchase being eighty
acres, which has been added to up to the present
time. Becoming identified with the interests of
the great and growing West, Mr. Tanton at once
proceeded to the task before him of cultivating
the soil, then in a primitive condition, and other-
wise effecting improvements, after which he de-
voted his attention largely to stock-raising. Every-
thing under his hands seemed to grow and prosper,
and it is probable that his worldly possessions all
told would aggregate at least $100,000. A stud}' of
his life and the elements of character which enabled
him to overcome obstacles before him, with the
ease of a wave carrying pebbles out into the bound-
less depths of ocean, would be beneficial to every
young man starting out in life, with high ambi-
tions and unlimited hopes. Youth is addicted to
building " castles in the air," and certainly if Mr.
Tanton ever indulged leisure moments in this
happy way, he has lived to see them not crumble
away as happens too often in this busy work-a-day
world, but come to a glorious realization beyond
even the dreams of boyhood.

A native of England, our subject was born in
Devonshire, August 15, 1803, and comes from
pure English stock. His father, William Tanton,
was a well-to-do farmer who spent his entire life
in his native Devonshire, and died at the advanced
:ige of eighty-nine years. He was a hard working
man and he accumulated a comfortable property.
He married a lady of his own shire, Miss Elizabeth
Pudicomb, who passed away when about fifty
years of age and many years prior to the decease
of her husband. She was a lady possessing esti-
mable qualities, and a devoted member of the
Church of England. She carried her religion
through the daily walks of life, and in a quiet way
was benevolent, giving freely and without stint

318

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

wherever she had an opportunity to benefit some
needy one.

To the parents of our subject there were born
seven children, of whom John w.is the eldest son
and second child. There were four sons and three
daughters, and he is the only survivor. He was
carefully reared under the home roof, and his par-
ents endeavored to instill into his mind during his
early years, those principles which carry a man
safely through the storms of an adverse world and
anchor him at last on the shores of eternity. His
education was obtained in the home schools, which
he usually attended a few months out of the year.
But like other bovs of that time, he was unable to
give the attention to the development of the mind
which he so earnestly desired, for manual labor was
required of him as soon ns lie was old enough to |
be of any service. He lived in England, until a
man of thirty-three years and then still unmarried,
set out, in 1836, for America. His destination was !
Illinois, and soon after landing we find him estab-
lished in Woodford County, of which he is still a
resident. Here he found a wife and helpmate,
being married March 31, 1842 to Miss Hannah
Grove. This lady is ncted for the purity of her
character and the exactness of her Christian life, for
taking the Bible as her guide, she has aimed "to
bjnefit every one about her and has secured the
love of all who have met her. She has been a most
excellent and cherished companion to her husband,
whose pathway she has lightened by her presence
and whose aid she has been for many years. She
is a member of the Christian Church, and her in-
fluence has led many souls out of darkness into
light, and the precious jewels in her crown of hap-
piness will be the souls she has saved.

Mrs. Tanton is of excellent old Pennsylvania
stock and was born June 13, 1818 in Harrison
County. Ind. Thus from her youth she was famil-
iar with the scenes of pioneer life, and learned nil
those duties which devolved upon women of the
West. When she was 3~et quite young her parents
removed to Woodford County, III., where she was
reared to womanhood. They settled near Met:i-
morn, where they continued to reside until passing
away at a ripe old age. The household circle con-
sisted pf eleven children, ten of whom are living.

One son fell while fighting for his country during
the late rebellion. The survivors are honest and
worthy people, well-to-do and universally respected.

To our subject and his estimable wife there were
born three children, one of whom, a son, John,
died at the age of five years, seven months, and
ten days. Thomas O. has been twice married and
lives on a farm in Cazenovia Township; Mary E.
is the wife of Jacob Keller and they live on a farm
owned by our subject. Mr. Tanton has meddled
very little with political affairs, but keeps himself
well posted upon current events, and votes the
straight Democratic ticket.

]t is eminently fitting that people of age and
worth, pioneers of Woodford County, honored
citizens and friends, should be represented by por-
traits in an ALBUM of the county for which the\-
have done so much; thus we are pleased to present
the portraits of Mr. and Mrs. Tanton on another
page, as representatives of that strength of mind,
depth of character, and generosity of heart, which
has raised Woodford County, to its enviable
position in the ranks of the foremost counties of
Illinois.

IIARLES GRIESER, who resides on sec-
tion 7, Palestine Township, is a leading
farmer and representative citizen of this
county. He was born in Metamora Township,
April 5, 1852, and his father, Joseph Grieser, was
a native of Wurtemburg, Germaivy. As far back
as the ancestry of the family can be traced, they
were natives of the same country. Joseph Grieser
was reared to manhood under the parental roof,
but after attaining his majority bade good-bye to
home and friends and sailed for America. On land-
ing in this country, he came directly to Woodford
County, locating two miles from Metamora, where
he developed a farm in the midst of the timbered
regions. Later, he sold that land and purchased a
farm in Palestine Township. He at first bought
seventy acres, but, as his financial resources in-
creased, he added to that amount until he owned
220 acres, which he placed under a high state of

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

319

cultivation. Wishing to retire from active life, he
then sold his farm to his two sons, Charles and
John, and removed to Secor, where he is now liv-
ing in ease and quiet. Mr. Grieser has been twice
married, his first union being with Christina Hilla-
brand, who was born in Germany, but at an early
age became a resident of America. While the
family were living in Springdale, 111., she was
called to her final home, dying on the 25th day of
October, 1857, at the age of twenty-five 3'ears.
She left three children, who are still living: Charles,
of this sketch, Anna and Joseph, all of whom are
living upon farms in this county. After the death
of his first wife, Mr. Grieser wedded Mrs. Minnie
Buyer, the marriage being celebrated in Peoria.
The lady was also a native of German}-, and in
early womanhood became the wife of John Buyer,
a cooper of Peoria, who died in that city. They
were the parents of one child, John, who is now
engaged in farming in Palestine Township. The
union of Mr. and Mrs. Grieser has been blessed
with one child, Lizzie, who still makes her home
with her parents in Secor.

The subject of this sketch was reared to man-
hood in Palestine Township, and received such
educational advantages as the district schools at
that time afforded. His boyhood days were spent
in much the same manner as other farmer lads,
and he remained at home until attaining his ma-
jority, when he started out in life for himself. lie
has made farming his principal occupation, and
since 1868 has resided upon the farm where he still
lives. In 1882. when his father resolved to retire
from active life, in connection with his brother lie
purchased the land, which he has since operated.
His portion comprises 140 acres, which is in a
highly cultivated condition, indicating the thrift
and industry of the owner. The stock which In-
raises is of the best grades, all the necessary im-
provements have been made, and his home is one
the most pleasant in the community. His life IIMS
been an industrious one, for since the time when
he was old enough to handle a plow he has engaged
in farm work, and the success which has crowned
his efforts is well merited.

In Metamora. Mr. Grieser was united in marriage
with Miss Josephine Strausmyer, a native of Penn-

sylvania, born in Montgomery County, July 25,
1855. Her parents were Andrew and Victoria
(Hagely) Strausmyer, both of whom were natives
of Germany, but in early life emigrated to Amer-
ica, locating in Pennsylvania, where their marriage
was celebrated. They afterward became residents
of Missouri, where the mother died Dec. 29, 1882.
Her husband still survives her, and now finds a
pleasant home with his daughter, Mrs. Grieser.

An interesting family of three children have
been born to our subject and his worthy wife
Dena L., Andrew and Mary. The parents are
members of the Catholic Church of Metamora, and
rank among the best citizens of the community in
Which they make -their home. In politics Mr.
Grieser is a Democrat, and is a prominent citizen
of Palestine Township.

OHN HEFLER. It is with pleasure that we
trace the history of this prominent resi-
dent of Woodford County through the
principal years of his past life. We cannot
follow it through every changeful year, every devi-
ous path, but only as a passing wanderer follows the
course of a river through a valley, sometimes ap-
proaching the bank, then far from the shore, but in
the end arriving at the same point where the river
rushes into the sea. In like manner we follow the
principal events in the history of Mr. Hefler.

At present a resident of Panola Township, farm-
ing on section 11, our subject is prosperous and en-
joying the comforts which money can obtain, and
good health can allow. He is a native of Germany,
where his birth occurred June 9, 1833. His father
ajid mother were named respect! vely Adam and
Catherine Hefler, also born in the Fatherland.
These people were of good family, and comforta-
bly situated, but hoping to increase their personal
property they sought America, taking with them
their son, our subject, who had then arrived at the
fourteenth year of his life. He had previous to his
departure received a good common school educa-
tion in his owi> tongue, but after coming to the

320

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

United States, he had no further opportunity
to attend school and therefore has gained his
English education by mingling with the F.ng-
lisli pc-ople nnd studying their ways and habits.
It w:is in the spring of 1848 that he emi-
grated here, taking passage at the port of Bremen
in a sail vessel, ami after an ocean voyage of forty
days, during which time the weather was fair and
the wateis tranquil, the ship landed at Baltimore.
Thence our subject moved westward to Butler
County, Pa., nnd there worked as a farm laborer.
When he was about eighteen years of age, he com-
menced to earn a living by his trade of a black-
smith, which he has followed more or less ever
since. As a renter in Butler County, he remained
several years gradually working his way to indepen-
dence. In 1859 he removed to West Virginia,
which was not then a separate State, but a part of
the Old Dominion. He located near the city of
Parkersburg, which was his home for a period of
live years. He has the reputation of having fired
the first Union gun in West Virginia, the gun
being loaded with heavy shot. This occurred in
.June of the year 1861, and the shot was aimed at a
Rebel horse-thief, who had been invading the vi-
cinity and stealing horses from Northern resi-
dents. Mr. Hefler was bo far successful that the
bullet lodged in the shoulder of the thief, who. it
may be presumed, occasioned no further trouble.
For three years thereafter Mr. Hefler was identified
with the West Virginia Home Guards, and did a j
great deal of good for the Union cause in his own
immediate locality.

The faithful companion of Mr. Hefler. and his
valued co-laborer is his wife, whose maiden name
was Elizabeth Ilenning. To her he was married in
Pennsylvania in February, 1855. They have be-
come the parents of twelve children of whom nine
have lived to maturity, namely: John, who lives in
McLean County, 111.; Adam, a resident of Panola
Township, located on section 14; George, also liv-
ing in Panola Township, and farming on section
13; William; Charles; Lucy ; Anna; Ida and Mary, t
Three have been taken from the home circle by i
death: Eliza, Catherine, and one who died in in-
fancy.

In the winter of 1865. our subject, with his wife j

and family came to live in Wood ford County, set-
tling on their present farm. He first purchased
eighty acres, which was in a condition similar to
all other farms in that then uncultivated county,
being unimproved, raw prairie, but having fertile
soil, and only needing the magic wand which hard
work wields over even the soil of the earth, to make
it bloom as a garden. Mr. Hefler has been an
honored resident of this county for the past twen-
ty-four years, and has become the owner of 260
acres of fine land, through his exertions and the
assistance of his wife, who has willingly done her
share of the labor, which as every pioneer woman
knows is anything but light.

Mr. Hefler has not had the time to devote to po-
litical affairs which others have had, but has al-
ways been a devoted subject of the American
Government. He votes for the Republican ticket
usually, and was for many years School Director in
his district, and aided in securing good teachers for
the community, and elevating the cause of educa-
tion general. He and his wife belong to the
Lutheran Church, and are everywhere welcomed
as representing the worth and intelligence of the
community. They have avoided the foolish van-
ities and the frivolous trifles of life, which con-
sume body and soul as the locust consumed Egj'pt,
and have aimed only at its sublimest ends, its
worthiest ambitions, and thus are eminently worthy
of the success which they enjoy.

OLOMON L. ZINSER, A. B., who is en-
gaged in the drug business at Minonk. 111.,
was born in Pickaway Count}-, Ohio, on
the 24th day of September, 1830. His
early boyhood days were there passed, and in its
schools he began his education. At the age of
eighteen years, in 1848, lie left the parental roof
and started out to make his own wa} r in the world.
He bade good-bye to his home and came direct to
Illinois, locating at Marshall, where he served a
three years' apprenticeship at the trade of a wagon-
niiiker, but never followed that occupation for a

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

321

livelihood. Soon after his term of service had ex-
pired he returned to his native State, and in 1856,
entered the Ohio Wesleyan University, which he
attended for four years. He then followed the
profession of school teaching until 1862, when he
could no longer withstand his country's call for aid,
and offered his services to the Government. lie
was assigned to Company G, of the 86th Illinois
Infantry, as First Lieutenant, and participated in
the battles of Perry ville, Chickaniauga, Mission
Ridge, Kenesaw Mountain. The army (hen went
into winter quarters at Chattanooga, and the follow-
ing year with his regiment he was in the Atlanta
campaign, and various other engagements, and was
with Sherman during the celebrated march to the
sea. At the battle of Beutonville, N. C., he was
wounded and sent home, but rejoined his regiment
at Washington, I). C.,and served until the close of
the war. He was mustered out with the rank of
Captain. At various intervals of his service in the
army as Lieutenant he served his regiment as Adj-
utant.

On the close of hostilities, Mr. Zinser was honor-
ably discharged and at once returned to his home in
Washington, 111. The following year, in 18G6,he was
united in marriage with Miss Sarah J. Grady, who
was born in this county, and is a daughter of R. R.
Grady, an early settler of Eureka. Five children
grace their union Percy M., Eloise, Homer, Clar-
ence and Raymond, all of whom are yet living.

On his return from the South at the close of the
war, Mr. Zinser formed a partnership with George
C. Yale, in the drug business, which connection
continued until 1870, when in consequence of ill
health, he was forced to retire and engage in some
other pursuit. He then obtained a position in the
United States mail service as route agent, in which
capacity he served six years, when he opened a
drug store in the village of Benson. At the end of
eight months, however, he removed to Minonk.
where he has since been engaged in business, and
has built up a large and flourishing trade. lie
ranks among the best citizens in this community,
is enterprising and progressive, and manifests a
deep interest in public affairs. In politics, he is an
ardent advocate of Republican principles, and luis
been honored with several local offices. He served

as Justice of the Peace in Washington, and since
coming to Minonk lie has held the offices of Collec-
tor and President of the Board of Education.
Socially, he is a member of the G. A. R. post, and
of the A. F. & A. M. Religiously, he is a member
of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is well
known throughout the count}', and ha and his
family hold a high position in the social world.

ENNETT SHAFER was one of the earliest
settlers of Washbiirn, where he is now liv-
II ing retired on his farm adjoining the village.
As a pioneer of the place he has been in-
strumental in its upbuilding, and he has witnessed
with pride its growth and development from a
tract of wild prairie to a pleasant and flourishing
town. He was. born in Westphalia, Germany, Dec.
22, 1817. His father, John Shafer, was born in
Germany, and spent his entire life there.

The subject of this sketch and his brother, An-
ton, were the only members of the family who
ever came to America. The latter is now residing
in Linn Township. The subject of this sketch at-
tended the excellent schools of his native land from
the age of six till he was fourteen years old, and was
then employed on a farm till 1844, when he be-
came coachman in a gentleman's family, occupying
that position till 1846, when he emigrated to the
United States. He set sail from Bremen, March 6,
and landed at New York after a voyage of forty-
seven days. He first found employment after
his arrival in that cit}', in a store on Hanover
street, where he remained two years. He then
went to Boston, where he secured a position
as foreman in a sugar refinery. In 1856 he threw
up that position, and came West to build up a home
for himself. He purchased 100 acres of land in
Caxenovia Towns!) ip, near the present site of Wash-
burn. At that time there was but one building
where Washburn now stands, a solitary log house,
which was burne 1 soon after. He has witnessed
the entire growth knd development of the vil-
lage. There was a small frame house on the land

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

that he bought, but it being in a poor condition he
was soon obliged to build another. He was a resi-
dent of that place a good many years, and then
purchased the farm adjoining which he now occu-
pies. He owns 176 acres of finely improved land,
which is under careful cultivation, and has three
sets of frame buildings. He rents his land, and
lives in retirement on the good income that he thus
secures. When he came here Lacon was his near-
est railroad point, and continued so for many
years, and deer and other kinds of wild game were
plenty.

Mr. Shafer was married in Boston, to Miss Frances
Shafer. She was also a native of Westphalia. The
death of that estimable woman occurred June 30,
1884. There were eight children born of that
marriage William, Eddie, Mary, Caroline and
Elizabeth being the only survivors. Mr. Shafer is
a member of the St. Elizabeth Catholic Church, of
which he Ins been a Trustee many years. Our sub-
ject has not only contributed liberally to the sup-
port of this church, of which he is a devoted
member, but he has given generously to aid in
the upbuilding of every other church in the vil-
lage, thus showing the deep interest he takes in its
well being, and endearing himself to the hearts ot
the community. In his political sentiments he is
a sturdy adherent of the Democrat party.

w. WEBER, the oldest druggist,

in years of service, of Minonk, Jl!., estab-
lished business Oct. 6, 1873. He was born
in St. Louis, Mo., Nov. 28, 1848, and is the son of
Peter S. and Elizabeth C. (Kern) Weber, the former
a native of Virginia, the latter of Penns3'lvama.
The Weber family is of Holland extraction, and
the ancestry can be triced back in direct line to
Wolfort Weber, who emigrated to America in the
year 1640, locating at New Amsterdam, which was
the beginning of New York City. He did not,
however, become a permanent resident of this coun-
try, and other mi'inhcrs of the family also made
trips between the two countries, some remaining

while others returned to Holland. Wolfort Weber
obtained a tract of land from the Holland Govern-
ment, known as the Harlem grant, and afterward
purchased fifty-seven acres which is now within the
city limits of New York. The genealogical table
of the family is as follows:

Wolfort Weber married Ancke Case, in Holland,
in 1641, and Dec. 18, 1645, there was born unto
them a son, whom they named Arnout. He mar-
ried Arintzie Arens, Aug. 25, 1 669, and on the 24th
of November, 1670, their son, Wolfort, was born.
lie married Gratzie Jacobs, Oct. 29, 1697, and a
son born to them May 22, 1 698, was called Arnout.
Arnout Weber married Sarah Ronicer, Oct. 9, 1733,
and their son, John B., born June 14, 1749, is the
next in direct descent. He wedded Hannah Web-
ster, June 8, 1769, and on the 19th of October,
1772, was born unto them a son, John Baltzer.
The last named married Elizabeth Schult, in 1805,
and they had six sons William, George Richard,
John Baltzer, Philip W.. Jacob Shutt, and Peter
Stroble. Peter S. was born Jan. 31, 1817, and was
three times married, his first union, which was cele-
brated March 11, 1837. being with Lavina Eliza
Adams, by whom he had one son, who died in in-
fancy. On the 7th of June, 1842, Sarah Brown
Elliott became his wife, and their only son also
died in infancy. He was the third time married,
June 24, 1845, the lady of his choice being Eliza-
beth Catherine Kern, who became the mother of four
children, three of whom died in infancy, George
William, the subject of this sketch, being the only
survivor.

The mother was born at Ligonier, Westmoreland
Co., Pa., March 31, 1827, and when ten years
of age, in 1 837, came with her parents to Wood-
ford County, 111., the family locating in Worth
Township. Peter Weber, when a young man, left
his Eastern home, emigrated to Illinois, and also
settled in the same county. 'The young people here
became acquainted, and on the 24th of June, 1845,
in Woodford County, were united in marriage.
Some time later, they removed to St. Louis, Mo.,
where he worked at his trade as wood cutter and
machinist until about the year 1851, when he be-
came a resident of New Orleans, where, on the 25th
of August, 1853, he died of yellow fever. His

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

323

wife survived him many years, and after the deatli
of her husband, returned to this county, and made
her home with her fattier near Metamora, until his
deatli March 16, 1883. She then removed to Mi-
nonk, and resided with her son, George W., until
culled to her final rest Jan. 28, 1888. She was an
earnest Christian woman, and a member of the
Presbyterian Church.

The subject of this sketch was but four years old
when his father's death occurred. He then made
his home with his mother and grandparents in
Metamora Township, until starting out in life for
himself. His educational advantages were those
afforded by the common schools of the neighbor-
hood, and at seventeen years of age, he began life's
battle. Going to Southwestern Missouri, he was
for some time engaged in clerking in a store, but
at length returned to Illinois. The following win-
ter he attended school at Minonk, and during the
summer worked at an}- employment which he
could find to do, whereby he might earn an honest
dollar. The next winter was spent in teaching
school in Mason County, after which he taught in
this county, and subsequently engaged in clerking
in Minonk. In the fall of 1873. he embarked in his
present business, in which he has been very success-
ful. From the beginning his trade has constantly
increased, and he now receives a liberal patronage.

In the month of January, 1873, Mr. Weber led
to the marriage altar Miss Lucy A. Bailey, who
was born in Boston, Mass. The family is descended
from Samuel Bailey, who was born in Rhode Isl-
and, Nov. 27, 1742, of Scotch ancestry, and on the
3d of January, 1772, married Roby Webb; they
became parents of eleven children, one of whom,
Ira Bailey, was the grandfather of Mrs. Weber.
He was born March 24, 1798, and wedded Martha
lloughton, by whom he had nine children. Of that
family, Cyril O. Bailey was bom April 8, 1824,
and Oct. 30, 1847, was joined in wedlock with
Miss Mary A. Phillips. Their union was blessed
with five children : Byron W., Lucy Ann Enie-
line; Ambrose P., Mary A., and an infant daugh-
ter, are deceased. Mr. Bailey was a blacksmith
and also gunsmith.

Mrs. Weber was born May 5, 1852. and with her
family came to this county, where she was married, i

Four children have been born of the union Alma,
Romain C., and Elsie, and one the eldest, who died
in childhood, named Newell B.

Mr. Weber is numbered among the leading busi-
ness men of Minonk, and is also one of its promi-
nent and influential citizens. In political sentiment,
he is a Republican. For three years, he served as
Township Clerk, and is now serving his third term
ns a member of the Board of Education. Socially,
he is a member of Robert Morris Lodge No. 247,
A. F. <fe A. M., in which he has filled all the offices
with the exception of that of Master. In connec-
tion with his store, he owns a nice residence in
Minonk, and his wife also is owner of some valu-
able property. This worthy couple have a large
circle of friends and acquaintances throughout the
community, and are greatly esteemed by all who
know them. Their home is noted for its hospital-
ity, and its inmates hold a high position in the so-
cial world.

'j'OHN JURY, one of the pioneers of 1850, is
now a prosperous farmer residing on section
9, Minonk Township. He was born in
Devonshire, England, February, 1836, being
a son of John and T. (Matters) Jury, who were also
natives of Devonshire, England. In 1850 the family
came to the United States and settled near Meta-
mora, Woodford County. They were poor but they
worked diligently and managed wisely and were
soon in a more prosperous condition. The father
rented land shortly after coming here and was op-
erating it with good success until in July, 1853,
when he was suddenly stricken dead while cutting
grain in the field. He had always previously en-
joyed good health. The family thus left to struggle
on by themselves consisted of the widow and five
children, viz.: Margaret, who is now Mrs. Robert
Thompson of Livingston County, III.; John; Jane,
now Mrs. Judsou Cutler, of Kansas; Peter residing
in Allen County, Kan.; Elizabeth, now Mrs. Albion
Ramsey, of Allen County, Kan.; Emanuel died
in childhood. The mother of our subject was again

324

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

united in marriage, taking for her second husband
Daniel Hallenback. He died at Minonk, a short
time after marriage, and she subsequently removed
to Kansas, where she died at the residence of her
daughter in 1888.

Our subject was fourteen years old when the
family moved to the United States. He at once
sought employment which he found as a farm hand
at $6 per month, the father receiving only $12 per
month. He worked in this capacity for some time
and assisted with his meager wages in supporting
the family. In 1854 his mother purchased eighty
acres of government land, paying $2.50 per acre.
This was located in Minonk Township on section 1.
To this place the family then moved and com-
menced improving, building as far as possible for
permanence and comfort. Our subject also rented
some land, but resided with the family until De-
cember, 1800. In that year he married a lady of
the neighborhood and settled on section 12, where
he purchased eighty acres of railroad land, paying
$10 per acre, which seemed a large amount at that
time, when corn was but ten cents a bushel. He
resided on said farm and made many improvements
bringing the land under a fine state of cultivation,
until 1867, when finding a location that pleased
him better he removed, buying land which became
the nucleus of his present place. He now has a fine
large estate of 365 acres of excellent land in Mi-
nonk Township. This was bought at various times
and cost him different prices ranging from $16 to
$70 per acre. He also owns 160 acres of land in
Jefferson County, Neb.

Mrs. Jury is an amiable, intelligent lady and a
good housewife, looking well to the ways of her
household. She is a daughter of Joseph H. Brown,
of Minonk, and is a native of Marshall County, 111.
To our subject and his wife have been bom
three children, Genevievc, wife of Andrew M.
Strawhacker, of Marshall County, 111.; Welby, of
Minonk and Adelbert Lee, who is at home.

Politically our subject is a Republican but takes
very little active part in the management of party
affairs. He has never 'sought or desired an office,
but has yielded to the solicitation of his friends
and served his district ns School Director. Mr. and
Mrs. Jury are both believers in the Christian reli-

gion and active and efficient helpers in all good
works. Mrs. Jury finds a religious home within
the fold of the Methodist Episcopal Church, where
her blameless life and abundant charity make her
a valued member.

ARON B. MASON is successfully conduct-
ing the mercantile business in Washbnrn,
where he has a neat, well-appointed store,
and carries a fine and well-selected assort-
ment of dry-goods, notions, etc. He is a native
of Indiana, born in the town of Middleton, Shelby
County, Sept. 13, 1840, a son of John and Sarah
(Parker) Mason, natives of Philadelphia, Pa. His
father was reared in the city of his nativity, and
early learned the trade of tobacconist, which he
followed there till 1836. In that year he removed
to Indiana, and locating in Shelby County, among
its pioneers, established himself as a tobacconist
in the town of Middletown. He bought property
there and was engaged in business in that place for
several years, but finally retired and spent the re-
mainder of his days free from business cares, and
in the enjoyment of a comfortable income. He
died in 1880, and in his death his community lost
a public-spirited, upright citizen. His good wife
also died in Middletown. There were thirteen
children in their family, of whom eleven grew to
maturity.

He of whom we write spent bis early life in his
native town, gaining the preliminaries of a sound
education in the local schools, and subsquently ad-
vancing by attendance at the excellent city schools
of Indianapolis. He commenced lifu for himself
ns a clerk in an auction and commission store in
that city, and during the three years that he held
that position he gained an accurate knowledge of
the mercantile business, and by intelligent and effi-
cient service won the commendation of those above
him. In 1877 he resolved to come West to see
what life held for him in the Prairie State. He es-
tablished himself in Peoria, as a house and sign

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

325

painter, and was thus occupied there seven years.
At the expiration of that time he came to Wash-
burn, and followed the same trade the ensuing two
years. He then entered into the mercantile busi-
ness which lie has carried on ever since with great
financial success. In the few years since he opened
his store, he has built up a paying trade by strictly
honorable methods, and his prompt attention to the
wants of his customers, his genial and obliging
manner render him popular with all who have deil-
ings with him. Mr. Mason was married in 1869 to
Miss Sarah Hudson, a native of Richmond, Ind.,
and a daughter of Robert and Eunice (Reed) Hud-
son. Her parents were Quakers, and were pioneers
of Richmond. Mrs. Mason has the requisite tact
and ability to make her home attractive to its in-
mates, and to whomsoever else crosses its threshold,
it being the seat of genuine hospitality.

Mr. Mason is a gentleman of true culture, and,
possessing much literary talent, he is a correspond-
ent for various papers, and a regular weekly con-
tributor to the Lacon Home Journal. His articles
are well and carefully written, giving evidence of
a bright and thoughtful mind, and are quite widely
read. A firm Republican in his political views,
Mr. Mason is a devoted adherent to his party. In
his wife, the Christian Church finds one of its most
influential members.

HARLE8 MOL1TOR. During the early
part of the present century, Europe was in
a fever of discontentment and political ex-
citement, and amid the tottering of kingdoms the
immortal Napoleon marched forward in his con-
quests, climbing the Alps to the victory beyond.
Before his pathway was fear, and behind him he
left devastation and ruin. The termination of
this glory we all know. The battle of Waterloo
put an end to the ambitious of Napoleon, and
left him alone in defeat, as he had never been in
conquest. The little province of Alsace was in no
small degree affected by the wars and the rumors of

wars. It nestled among the mountains of north-
eastern France, and has often been a bone of con-
tention between neighboring kingdoms. Among
the inhabitants of Alsace few watched the march of
events with greater interest than Charles A. and
Verbena (Conrad) Molitor, with their little group
of children. Three childish forms at this period
clustered around the hearth, and for their sakcs
especially the parents rejoiced to have the fierce
and bloody war brought to a speedy termination.
These children were named: Charlotte, Verbena
and Charles. The latter was born Sept. 29, 1 809,
and was thus a lad of six years, when the defeat of
Waterloo occurred.

Charles A. Molitor, the father of our subject,
was a native of Bavaria, but none of his children
remained in the Fatherland. Verbena died at an
early age. while Charlotte married John Trom, a
native of France, but now a resident of Canada,
to which country he and his wife emigrated in
1834. Their home is beautifully situated in the
picturesque district near Niagara Falls.

The only son of Charles A. Molitor is now an hon-
ored resident of this count}', and rests quietly in his
pleasant home after a long and adventurous life.
He has made his home in many countries, and has
lived under many flags. In 1824 he left his child-
hood home, and sojourned for a time in Russia.

But the cold, uncongenial climate, and barren,
unproductive soil, were not suited to his tastes, nor
was the political condition of Russia all that he
could wish. He set sail from the port of Havre
de Grace, France, in 1835, and after a tempestu-
ous voyage of thirty-five days landed in New York
City. For one year he was employed in that city
at his trade as a cabinet-maker. While a resident
of that city he increased his responsibilities, and
also his share of happiness, by uniting his interests
and cares with those of Miss Mary Burky, a native
of Bavaria, to whom he was married May 1, 1836.
Her parents left their old home, and located in
America, the same year that witnessed the depart-
ure of her future husband. Her father had been a
farmer in the old country, but engaged in keeping
a boarding-house in New York Cit}'.

After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Molitor became at-
tracted by stories of the West, and accordingly

326

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

in 1837, changed their abode to Tazewell County,
111., where they purchased a farm of eighty acres.
This was in a wild, uncultivated state, but he im-
proved it until lie had it all in good condition,
when he sold it, and bought a farm of 136 acres
with a small house. Here he made his home and
here his wife passed away in 1844.

Of the eight children of Mr. and Mrs. Molitor,
one alone survives, Catarina, who married Charles
Wineland, of Kankakee, 111. He is engaged as a
contractor, and has established an enviable reputa-
tion in his occupation. They are the parents of
eight children.

A second matrimonial alliance was formed by
Mr Molitor in 1844, when he was united in mar-
riage with Miss Mary Ann Phillips, a native of
Tazewell County, III. She is of French descent,
her parents having been residents of Loudraj 7 ,
France. Of the eleven children born of this union,
six arrived at the years of maturity, as follows :
Charles P., Joseph, Frank, George L. Benjamin S..
and Rupert D. The eldest, Charles P. married
Miss Ilagaman, of Tazewell County, and he is em-
ployed as a railroad engineer in Chicago, where
they make their home. The record of their chil-
dren is as follows: George, Mary, Emma, and
Frank. The second son, Joseph, married Miss
Ragley, l>y whom he has two children Robert
and Edward. After the death of this wife he again
married, the name of his second wife being Miss
Tracie Hummel, a native of Germany, by whom he
has three children. He is occupied as a farmer in
this county. George L. married Eve Geiger, a
native of this county, and they reside in Metamora,
with their three children Douglas, Henry and
George L. The occupation of the father is that of
a farmer, in which he is very successful. Benjamin
S. married Miss Camp, whose birthplace was in
Tazewell County, and they are the parents of two
children Wilsie and Benjamin L. Their home is
in Washington Village, where the husband and
father has been engaged for many years as a farmer.
Frank is in the employ of a railroad company in
Chicago.

Mr. Molitor is justly proud of his war record,
and as a slight compensation for injuries received
in the service he now draws a pension. He en-

listed in the 14th Illinois Cavalry, under Col.
Caliron; was engaged in the conflict at Salina, Tenn.
and then at Castle Creek. In the latter battle he
was wounded in the head. lie was taken prisoner
at Scottsville, Tenn., but was fortunate enough to
get exchanged shortly after. He received an hon-
orable discharge at Indianapolis, in 1865.

After the close of the war, Mr. Molitor returned
to his home, and commenced farming operations,
lie now owns a farm with a fine residence, and the
land is in a good state of cultivation. He and his
wife and family are members in good standing of
the Catholic Church. Politically, our subject is a
stanch Republican, and has held the office of the
Justice of the Peace for the period of forty years.

f, AMES PIPER, a resident of Cazenovia Town-
ship, has been a prominent factor in the re-
ligious, social, political, and material devel-
opment of Woodford County, where he has
lived for so many years. He is connected with its
farming interests, having improved a farm from
the wild prairies on which he has made his home
for a period of thirty-six years. He was born in
Cumberland County, Pa., Nov. 1, 1824. His
father, Capt. James Piper, was born on the same
farm, and his father, John Piper, was born either
in Scotland or the North of Ireland. His father,
Samuel Piper, the great-grandfather of our sub-
ject, was a native of Scotland, and emigrated to
the North of Ireland, where he spent his last years.
The grandfather of our subject was reared in Ire-
land, and soon after marriage came to America, and
settled in Cumberland County, Pa., where he pur-
chased a tract of land on the stream known as the
Big Spring. There was an unimproved water-
power on the place, which he utilized, damming the
stream, and building the flrst mill ever erected in
that part of the country. While operating the mil I he
superintended the improvement of a farm, and was
a resident there until his death. The father of the
subject of this sketch fell heir to his father's prop-
erty, and spent his entire life in the home of his

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

327

birth, dying Jan. 1, 1846. He served his country
in the War of 1812, having a captain's commission.
The maiden name of the mother of our subject
was Catherine Irvin. She was born in Cumber-
land County, Pa., while her father, Samuel Irvin,
was a native of Chester County, Pa. John Irvin,
the great-grandfather of our subject, was born in
Scotland, and on coming to America, located in
Pennsylvania, and spent his last years in Cumber-
land County. The grandfather of the subject of
this sketch, erected the second mill ever built on
the Big Spring. He devoted his time to farming
and milling, and passed his last years in Cumber-
land County. The mother of the subject of this
sketch died on the homestead June?, 1844. There
were six children born to the parents of our sub-
ject: Mary married John S. Dunlap, and lives in
Pennsylvania: Jane died at the home of our sub-
ject in 1885; John died in Lacon, in 1889; Samuel
lives in Cumberland County, Pa.; Elizabeth mar-
ried G. V. Mallorey, and died in 1876.

He of whom we write, was reared and educated
in his native county, and in 1847, in the prime and
vigor of early manhood, he stalled on an explor-
ing expedition to Illinois, wishing to gain a good
knowledge of the country, and to try life on the
broad prairies of the West. He proceeded by
stage to Mansfield, Ohio, and thence by rail to
Sandusky, where he embarked on a steamer for
Milwaukee, and from that city he walked to Galena,
111. He made a short stay there, and then made
his way to Alban}*, Whiteside County, where he
remained two months. After that lie went to Mar-
shall County, and there turned his education to
account by commencing a term of school in Feb-
ruary, 1848, in the Round Prairie school house, five
miles southeast of Lacon. He taught there until
June with excellent success, and then after working
on a farm until fall, returned to Pennsylvania. He
remained in his native State until 1850, when he
once again came West, traveling by the Ohio and
Mississippi rivers to St. Paul, Minn., then a small
village, and on the spot where Minneapolis now
stands, there were but a few small houses. He
staid there ten days, but liking what he had seen of
Illinois, better, he came here, and sought employ-
ment in Wood ford County, and until the follow-

ing spring of 1851 worked by the day or month at
whatsoever his hands found to do. With good
judgment and foresight, he invested his hard earn-
ings in 160 acres of land, forming the northeast
quarter of section 26, Ca/.enovia Township. It
was wild prairie land, but by the quiet force of
persistent and wisely directed labor, in the years
that followed he reclaimed it from its wild state,
improving it into one of the most desirable farms
in this locality, and has since made his home on it,
having erected substantial buildings in the spring
of 1853. He has been enabled to add more land to
his original purchase, and now has 240 acres of
choice farming land, provided with a commodious
dwelling, a neat barn, and other necessary out-
buildings. He has a fine orchard, and has other-
wise adorned his place by planting hedges, and

i beautiful shade trees.

Mr. Piper has been twice married. To the wife
of his earlier years, Miss Elizabeth Dodds, he was

| wedded in February, 1851. She was a native of
Montgomery County, Ohio, and the oldest daugh-
ter of William and Priscilla Dodds. (For her pa-
rental history see sketch of John E. Dodds on
another page of this ALBUM.) Aug. 7, 1872, Mrs.
Piper was taken from her family by her untimely
demise. There were six children born of that mar-
riage, namely: William I., James E., Robert D.,
Mary E., Joseph L., and Clara May. The latter
died when four years old.

Mr. Piper was married to his present wife in
October, 1873, and to them have come two chil-
dren, John G., and Charles A. Mrs. Piper's maiden
name was Priscilla Gracey, and Cumberland County,
Pa., was her native place. Her parents, Col. Will-
iam and Sarah A. Gracey, were also born in that
county. Her father is a man of considerable promi-
nence in his community, and is an officer in the
Stale militia, holding a commission in the 44th
Pennsylvania Regiment, P. N. G.

During his many years residence here, Mr. Pip-
er's course in life has been such as to win the re-
gard and respect of all who have come under the
genial influence of his guileless, manly character,
his pleasant, helpful ways, and his unswerving ad-
herence to the right. He has filled an important
place in the government of the county and town-

328

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

ship, and his fellow-officials have found him to be
an able and wise counselor. He represented Caz-
enovia Township on the County Board of Super-
visors several terms, and from 1868 to 1872, was a
member of the State Board of Equalization. He
has filled various local offices, served as School Di-
rector ten years, and as Trustee twelve years. His
patriotism and loyalty to his country were abun-
dantly proved during the late war, when he joined
a company of home guards, receiving a commis-
sion from Gov. Yates, as captflin. In politics, he
is a faithful supporter of the Republican party. In
him and his estimable wife, the United Presbyterian
Church finds two of its most consistent and valued
members.

\W)AMES FORSYTH. To Illinois have emi-
|| grated the best elements of nearly all na-
tions, and in the early days the English
emigrant was not slow to take advantage of
the promise held out in her rich soil awaiting de-
velopment from the hand of the husbandman. Mr.
Forsyth, a native of Cumberland County, England,
came to Panola Township, in the early days, con-
tributed his full quota toward its growth and de-
velopment, and is now numbered among her leading
farmers and stock-raisers. He selected land on
section 11, where we now find him in the enjoy-
ment of a well-cultivated farm, and all the comforts
and conveniences of modern rural life.

Our subject was born June 14, 1833, and is the
son of James and Margaret (Kerr) Forsyth. who
were natives of Scotland, but settled in England
prior to the birth of their son, James, Jr. The lat-
ter was deprived by death of the affectionate care
of his mother when in the fourth year of his age.
He was the youngest son, and was given a good
education. He took kindly to his books, and since
leaving school, has, by a course of reading, kept
himself posted upon the general topics of the day.
He served an apprenticeship at farming in his na-
tive county, and lived there until a young man of
twenty-four years. In the meantime he had been

receiving information of the encouragement held
out to the young men in the great West of the
United States, and now determined to emigrate
thither.

In 1857, Mr. Forsyth repaired to Liverpool, and
embarked on a sailing vessel, which, after a voyage
of thirty-seven days, landed him safely in New
York City. Thence he came directly to Illinois,
and for about two years thereafter worked in the
coal mines of La Salle County. In 1 859 he changed
his residence to Woodford County, of which he has
since been one of the most valued citizens. His
first purchase of land was eighty acres of raw prai-
rie, which remained in the condition which the In-
dians had left it, and over which deer, wolves and
other wild animals had heretofore roamed unre-
strained. He began at first principles in the con-
struction of a farm, breaking the prairie, building
fences, planting trees, and while raising each year
his grain and provisions, effected improvements as
rapidly as possible. He is now the owner of a
quarter section, all of which he has brought to a
good state of cultivation, and which, in fact, is ad-
mitted to be one of the best farms in the township.

In 1856, the year prior to leaving England, our
subject was married to Miss Jane Watson, a native
of his own county, and who died after becoming
the mother of one child, a daughter, whom they
named Mary. Our subject contracted a second
marriage, 1876, in this township, with Mrs. Sarah
Taylor. This lady was born in Lancashire, April
4, 1838, and is the daughter of John and Elizabeth
Morris, who were likewise of English birth and
parentage, and who emigrated to the United States
when their daughter Elizabeth was a child of three
years. Coming to Illinois, they settled in Peoria
County, of which they were among the pioneers,
and there the}' spent their last days. Neither, how-
ever, lived to be aged, the father dying Aug. 10,
1847, and the mother Aug. 13, 1850. They were
the parents of nine children, only three of whom
are living, viz: Elizabeth, the wife of O. B. Greene,
of Peoria County; Sarah, Mrs. Forsyth, and James
T., in Peoria County.

The present Mrs. Forsyth was first married in
Peoria Count}-, 111.. June 2, 1856, to Samuel Tav-
lor, a native of Lancashire England, and by whom

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

329

she became the mother of four children. The eld-
est, Ella R., is now the wife of Samuel A. Ennefer,
of Iliincock County, 111.; Frank M., and Oswald B.
are living at home; Lizzie J. is deceased. Mr. and
Mrs. Taylor located in Panola Township, this
county, in 1865. Mr. Taylor taking up land on
section 2, lie engaged in its. improvement and culti-
vation until the illness which resulted in his death,
March 7, 1872. Mrs. Forsyth has in her own right
a farm of 160 acres. She was the second wife of
Mr. Taylor, who, by his first marriage was the
father of one son, John C., who is now in Peorin.
Mr. Forsyth, politically, is a sound Republican,
and has served two terms as Road Commissioner.
In the spring of 1888, he was elected to represent
Pnnola Township, in the County Board of Super-
visors. He may properly be numbered among the
self-made men of Wood ford Count}', and has con-
tributed his full quota to her progress and de-
velopment.

IHLLIAM S. BULLOCK. The difference
in men is keenly recognized as the biog-
rapher goes from place to place and meets
all kinds of individuals. He finds some living for
self alone, regardless of the rights or happiness of
others, and others intent upon getting gain. Here
and there is a man who, unlike the others, entertains
a conviction that he was born to be of some use in
the world and endeavors, is far as in him lies, to
fulfill his manifest destiny. The subject of this
notice is one of those, living with a purpose in
view which shall reflect honor upon his name when
he can labor no longer. He is generally regarded
as a quiet and unostentatious citizen, but lie carries
with him an influence which will be felt after he
has been gathered to his fathers. His life perhaps
lias been passed in a comparatively uneventful
manner, a life which for many years has been
strengthened in its best purposes by the assistance
and influence of his amiable and excellent wife.
Mrs. Bullock is one of the most estimable ladies of
her community, and has proven herself well fitted

for the position she occupies, as the presiding
genius of a good man's home and the mother of a
family of intelligent children.

Mr. Bullock is a fanner by occupation, and be-
sides owning a thoroughly cultivated farm of 160
acres, has in partnership with his sons, an interest
in 450 acres. The homestead occupies a portion
of section 23 in Olio Township, and has been the
property of our subject since 1863. He has effected
most of the improvements upon it, and to assist
him in his labors employs modern machinery of an
improved pattern, and keeps himself well posted
in regard to the best methods of agriculture.
Without making any pretentions to elegance, his
. buildings are neat and substantial and kept in good
repair, while he has gathered about himself and
family all those comforts and conveniences which
have so much effect upon the happiness of a home-
stead.

Our subject was born in Woodford County,
Ky., May 12, 1827, and was the eldest son and
second child of Thomas and Agnes (Ware) Bul-
lock, the former a native of Woodford County,
and the latter of Franklin County, Ky. Thomas
Bullock lived near the place of his birth until
after his marriage. Then he changed his residence
to Owen County, and from there, in 1835, emi-
grated to Woodford County, 111., settling one mile
southwest of the present site of Eureka; no signs of a
town were visible at that time. There he built up
a homestead from an uncultivated tract of land,
where he lived until the death of the mother,
which occurred Feb. 16, 1882. After her death,
the father of our subject came to live with the
latter, and departed this life Feb. 18, 1887.

Thomas Bullock was a man of note in his com-
munity, liberal, public-spirited, and warmly inter-
terested in the progress and development of his
adopted county. He was instrumental in having
it named after his native county in Kentucky, and
himself presented it to the consideration of the
Slate Legislature. He opened up a farm, and be-
sides carrying on agriculture, dealt considerably in
live-stock. Seven of his children survive him.

The subject of this notice was eight years old
when his parents removed to Woodford Count}',
this State, and here he grew to manhood in Olio

330

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

V ORTER S. BASSETT came to Illinois in
1855, identifying himself with the pioneer
farmers of Woodford County in the fol-
lowing spring, and has been so fortunate
in his enterprise that he is now numbered among
the prominent and well-to-do agriculturists and
stock-raisers of this part of the State. His farm
is on section 32, of Panola Township, and is in
every way one of the most desirable of the produc-
tive farms of this locality.

Our subject is a native of Cheuango County,
N. Y., born Jan. 11. 1828, to Urian and Submit
(C'liapin) Bassett. His father was a native of Ver-
mont, while his mother was of New York birth, her
father being a native of Connecticut. The Bas-
setts are said to have emigrated to Vermont at an

Township. He remained a member of the parental
household until reaching his majority, and remem-
bers many of the incidents connected with pioneer
life. He assisted in building the first mill erected
in Eureka, and was employed in it for a short time.
It was owned and operated by John Major & Co.
Aside from this diversion, he has always been en- j
gaged in agricultural pursuits. When approach-
ing the twenty-fifth year of his age he was married,
Oct. 14, 1852, to Miss Mary A.Mitchell. This
lady was born in Indiana, and came with her par-
ents to this county in 1833. Of her union with
our subject there have been born three children:
Clara, the eldest, is the wife of Thomas Spencer,
and lives in Buffalo County, Neb.; Harvey W.
married a Miss Ay res, and lives in Woodford
County; John M. married a Miss Blanchard, and
they live in Woodford County.

In his political views Mr. Bullock affiliates with
the Democratic party. He has held some of the
minor offices, but prefers that other men should
assume their cares and responsibilities. Both he
and his good wife are members of the Christian
Church, and their children have been given a good
practical education. The family represents the
best element of the community.

early day and to have been among its first settlers.
Porter Bassett of this sketch, was the oldest child
of his father's family, and was bred to the life of a
farmer in his native State. He received a limited
common-school education, which he has improved
by extensive reading and by observation, he hav-
ing a quick, receptive mind. In taking that im-
portant step in life, his marriage Aug. 15, 1851, to
Miss Malvina L. French, he was so fortunate ns
to secure a good wife, one who has been both a
companion and a helpmate. She is, like himself, a
native of New York, and of New England anteced-
ents, her parents, James A. and C3'nthia French,
having been born in that part of the country. Two
children have been born to our subject and his wife,
namely: Florence, wife of P. M. Evans, of Panola
Village; Addie, wife of J. C. Schofield, of Panola
Township. In 1855 Mr. and Mrs. Bassett left
their native State for the .purpose of building up"
a new home under more favorable auspices in the
West, and coming to Illinois in the fall of that year,
they spent the ensuing winter in LaSalle County.
In the spring of 1855 they took up their abode in
Woodford County, Mr. Bassett buying a tract of
wild land of the railway company in Greene Town-
ship. He broke and placed under cultivation the
whole eighty acres, and made many fair improve-
ments during the ten years that he and his family
lived on it. At the expiration of that time he dis-
posed of it, and moved onto his present farm,
which at that time comprised 115 acres, of which
about one-half had been broken, and a small
house stood on the place. In the years that have
passed since then, Mr. Bassett has wrought a great
change by the quiet force of persistent labor.
There was much pioneer labor to be performed,
and many hardships to endure before this could be
brought about. But happily Mr. Bassett was not
easily discouraged, and having a strong will, good
powers of endurance, and a clear mind in a health}'
body, has accomplished a great deal, with the aid
of a helpful wife, where others might have failed,
and his farm, which now comprises 225 acres, is under
admirable tillage, is provided with ample buildings,
and everything about the place is in excellent order.
When the Bassetts first came to the county it was
still in quite a wild condition. Many of its first

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

331

settlers were still living here and had not completed
their work. The few farms tlmt had been devel-
oped lacked the many comfortable improvements
that distinguish the numerous fine farms of to Any.
Civilization was not so far advanced, but that deer,
wolves and other wild animals were still plenty and
often troublesome, though the flesh of the deer and
other wild game furnished the pioneers with deli-
cious food.

Mr. and Mrs. Bassett are regarded with feelings
of affection and respect by the people of this com-
munity, where they have made their home so many
years, and their neighbors have always found them
kin.I hearted, charitable, friendly, and hospitable,
always ready and glad to give assistance where it
was needed, and never failing to extend sympathy
to those in trouble or sorrow. Mr. Bassett is
worthily fulfilling the duties of citizenship, and
has served his township faithfully as Assessor and
Road Commissioner for several years. He is a
member of the Grange Lodge at El Pao, and polit-
ically, is identified with the Democratic party.

MOSCHEL is one of the most
progressive and enterprising of the native-
born young men of Woodford County, who
within the last decade have stepped to the front to
take up the work so well begun by their pioneer
sires, and are pushing forward the great commer-
cial and agricultural interests of the county, and
are prominent factors in the promotion of its finan-
cial prosperity. He is member of the firm of
Moschel & Tweddale, grocers, who are conducting
the grocery business in Washburn. Although so
young, our subject is already prominently identi-
fied with the public life of his native county, as a
member of the County Board of Supervisors.

Our subject wns born in Cazenovia Township,
Dec. 1, 1862. His father, John Moschel, was born
in Bavaria. Germany, and his father bearing the
same name, was a native of the same place. The
grandfather of our subject and his two brothers,
Nicholas and Christian came to America and

all reared families. The grandfather of our
subject came about 1853, and first lived below
Peoria. lie had always followed agricultural
pursuits, but after coming to the United States, he
did not engage in any active business. His last
years were passed quietly in Cazenovia Township.
His children were as follows: John, Christian,
Philip, Susanna, Sophia and Phebe.

The father of the subject of this sketch was
reared and married in his native land, and lived
there till about 1852, then he came to the United
States, residing for a short time in Peoria. After
that he removed to a farm below that city, on
which he lived till 1859, and in that year he came
to Cazenovia Township. There he purchased a
farm, located on sections 2 and 3, erected a
good set of frame buildings, and made his home
there till death claimed him, During that time he
had purchased desirable property in Washburn,
and had erected a fine house, in which he intended
to spend his declining years, but was taken sick
and died just as it was ready for occupancy. He
was a well-educated man, possessing a good fund
of general information, and was a conspicuous fig-
ure in the public and political life of Woodford
County, and was a member of the County Board
at the time of his death, having filled various other
offices of trust. The maiden name of his wife was
Mary Sandmeyer, a native of the same place as
himself. There are three of their children living:
Mary, wife of Henry Lesch, of Washburn; John,
who lives on the home farm, and the subject of
this sketch.

The latter received a substantial education in
the village schools, and afforded his father valuable
assistance on the farm till the month of October,
1885. At that time he formed a partnership with
J. R. Tweddale, to engage in the grocery business,
which they have carried on together with excellent
success ever since. They have a fine store, replete
in all its appointments, and carry, besides gro-
ceries, jewelry, of which they have a well- selected
stock. ''}':,

A bright, active young man, with a well-bal-
anced mind, and an exceptional talent for business,
our subject has early been called to take his part
in the administration of the government of his

332

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

native county. The people among whom he has
grown to manhood regarding him as eminently
worthy of their suffrage, elected him to the Super-
visorship to succeed himself, he having been ap-
pointed to fill the unexpired term of his father at
the time of the latter's death, and his course in that
position was so satisfactory, that at the expiration
of that term in 1889, he was re-elected to represent
the interest of Cazenovia Township a second term.
Politically he is an ardent follower of the Demo-
cratic party. Religiously, he believes in the tenets
of the Reformed Church, and is one of its most
useful members.

I OHN M. PHILLIPS, the present efficient Su-
pervisor of Montgomery Township, is num-
bered among the prominent and progressive
farmers of this count}', where he has made
his home since 1 865. He now owns and operates a
ftne farm of 226 acres situated on section 3, which
he purchased in 1866. Almost the entire amount
is in a high state of cultivation, and the surround-
ings indicate the thrift and enterprise of the owner,
whose efforts have been very successful. He is
numbered among the prosperous farmers of the
community, where he has so long been favorably
known.

Mr. Phillips is a native of Guernsey County,
Ohio, born Feb. 22, 1829. His parents were Will-
iam and Priscilla (White) Phillips, the former a
native of Loudoun County, Va., the latter of Phila-
delphia, Pa. For several generations past, the
Phillips family have been residents of the Old
Dominion, where William was reared to manhood.
He then emigrated to the Buckeye State, locating
in Guernsey County, where he became acquainted
with, and married Miss White. They began their
domestic life on a rented farm in that county, but
later purchased land, and in the home thus made
Mrs. Phillips resided until her death, which occurred
Aug. 15, 1851, at the age of forty-six years. She
was a member of the Baptist Church, and was be-
loved by all who knew her for her many excellent

traits of head and heart. After the loss of his
loved companion, Mr. Phillips came to the West,
locating in Topeka, Kan., where he resided in the
home of his son, W. W., until called from the busy
scenes of this life. His death occurred Aug. 15.
1 88 1 , at the age of eight}- -three years, just thirty
years after his wife crossed the dark river. He was
a man of high moral character, and though he
never united with any religious organization, his
upright life commanded the respect and confidence
of all. He scorned to do a wrong or inflict an in-
jury, but in a quiet and unostentatious manner
performed many acts of kindness, which will long
be remembered. In early life he cast his ballot
with the Whig party, but at the formation of
the Republican part}' joined its ranks, and con-
tinued to fight under its banner until death.

By the union of Mr. and Mrs. Phillips, a family
of eight children was born, five sons and three
daughters, of whom our subject was the eldest.
The family circle remained unbroken until all had
reached maturity. The entire number were mar-
ried and had families, and, with one exception, are
yet living. One of the brothers died, leaving a
wife and child.

Mr. Phillips, the subject of this notice, passed the
days of his childhood and youth in his native county,
and in the schools of the neighborhood received his
education. In Guernsey Count}' his parents resided,
and with them he remained until attaining his ma-
jority, when he left home and became a resident of
Pickaway County. There he led to the marriage
altar Miss Sarah Reed, who was born in Pennsyl-
vania, June 7, 1833, and is a daughter of Lewis and
Mary (Myers) Reed, also natives of the Keystone
State. The parents were reared and married near
their childhood home, where their children were
also born. When Mrs. Phillips was a young girl,
they left their Eastern home, emigrating to Pick-
away County, Ohio, where the parents passed the
remainder of their lives. They were members of
the Evangelical Association, and both died in the
faith of that society, at a ripe old age.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Phillips have been born
eleven children, and though nearly all of them are
married and have left the parental roof, none have
been called from this life. Ezra, the first-born,

RESIDENCE OF JOHN M .PHILLIPS, SEC. 3. MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP.

RESIDENCE OF JOHN SNYDER^SEC'S. 7.a.8.METAMORATowN5HiP.

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

335

married Loui-sa Cooper, and now resides with his
family in Fremont, Dodge Co.. Neb., where he is
engaged in farming; Mary is the wife of Trumbull
Skinner, a resident farmer of Cass County, Neb.;
William married Ellen Stumbaugh,and follows the
same occupation in Dodge County, Neb.; Kate
wedded George Gibson, and the} 7 reside on a farm
near Fremont, Neb.; Olive married William Gib-
son, a farmer of Dodge County; Lewis R., unmar-
ried, is a successful teacher of Dodgy County;
Evan is at home; Josephine is the wife of Perry
J. Hoyt, who is engaged in agricultural pursuits in
Montgomery Township [John W., Sherman and
David are at home. The children have received lib-
eral educational advantages, and are now respected
men and women of the various communities, in
which they reside. Mr. and Mrs. Phillips are active
members of the United Brethren Church, and have
been instrumental in advancing its interests and
promoting its welfare. They give liberally to all
enterprises for the good of the community, and
rank among the best citizens of Woodford County.
None are held in higher respect, and few are better
known throughout the community. Mr. Phillips
manifests a deep interest in political affairs, and is
a stanch advocate of Republican principles. He
has held various offices of honor and trust, for a
number of years served as Justice of the Peace,
and is now filling his third term as Township Su-
pervisor. He discharges his duties with prompt-
ness and fidelity, and his public career is marked
with the same faithfulness which has characterized
his actions throughout life. A lithographic view
of Mr. Phillips' neat and pleasant home appears
elsewhere in this volume.

J"; OHN SNYDER, an intelligent, progressive
member of the farming community of Wood-
j ford County, has several valuable farms, in-
' eluding the large and well-ordered estate
in Metomora Township, where he makes his home.
It is finely located one and one-half miles north of
the city, and comprises 370 acres of well- improved

tillable and pasture land. It is well supplied with
modern machinery of all kinds for facilitating the
labor of carrying on a farm, and has a good set
of conveniently arranged buildings, indeed every-
thing about the place shows that it is under the di-
rection of a skilled, practical hand.

Our subject is of German birth, and was born in
the Fatherland, in the month of October, 1819.
His father, Nicholas Snyder, was also born in Ger-
many, and was of German ancestry as far back as
is known. He worked at the trade of a miller in his
native couptry until about 1828, when he con-
eluded to try his fortunes in America, hoping to be
able to do better for his family than he could in
the land of his nativity. Accordingly he came
here with his wife and five children, and located in
Pennsylvania. He remained a resident of the
Keystone Slate until 1855, then emigrated to Illi-
nois, with his family, coming by the way of the
Ohio, Mississippi, and Illinois rivers, and landing
at Peoria, then a small hamlet of log houses. He
found a vacant log house on the present site of
the Peoria House, and his family took shelter in
that while he went forth in search of a suitable
location. He found the country round-about still
in a very wild, sparsely settled condition, deer
and wolves plentiful, and mucli of the land still
held by the Government, and for sale at $1.25 an
acre. He secured a claim to a tract of land on Blue
Creek, three-fourths of a mile south of Spring Bay.
He immediately began to provide a suitable dwell-
ing for his family, building for that purpose a log
cabin, with a stick and mud chimney. Before his
death Mr. Snyder had improved a good farm, that
compared in all points with the best in his neigh-
borhood, and he and his wife closed their eyes to
the scenes of earth on the old homestead that their
united labors had made into a comfortable home.
They were the parents of nine children, who grew
to maturity: Our subject; Isaac, a resident of
Roanoke; Peter, who lives on Partridge Creek;
Nicholas, living in Spring Bay; Daniel, who lives
near Spring Bay; Caroline, wife of Adam Gable;
Elizabeth, wife of Christopher Winkler; Margaret,
wife of Robert Stinger; Christine, wife of Mr.
Knapp.

He of whom we write was a lad of nine years

336

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

when he came to this country with his parents, and
in their Pennsylvania home he passed the years of
his boyhood, remaining an inmate of the parental
household until he was sixteen years old, when he
commenced life for himself, working out by the
day or month. He was very industrious, and care-
fully saved his earnings, so that he was soon
enabled to buy a tract of land in Partridge Town-
ship, after the removal of his father's family to
this State. It was wild land, partly prairie, and the
remainder covered with timber. He built a com-
fortable log house on his place, and at the time of
his marriage he and his bride began their wedded
life in that humble abode. He developed a good
farm from his land, and continued to reside in that
township until 1874, then coming to Metamora,
invested in his preseit farm, which he purchased
from Nancy Wilkinson, paying therefor $f>0 per
i.cre, and besides owns other farms, as before men-
tioned.

Mr. Snyder has been twice married. The mai-
den name of his first wife was Susan Caldwell, and
she was born in Ohio, a daughter of William and
Betsy Caldwell. This truly estimable woman
closed her eyes in death in the month of December,
1867, leaving one child, Ellen. Mr. Snyder was
married to his present amiable wife, formerly Miss
Lovina Baker, in January, 1869. She is a native
of Lnzerne County, Pa., and a daughter of Chaun-
cey Baker, who was also born and reared in that
county, and there married. In 1836 he emigrated
to Illinois with his wife and two children, making
the entire journey overland with a part of their
household goods in their wagon, and cooking and
camping by the wayside at night. He had been
here the year previous, and had selected. a claim in
Partridge Township. He did not settle on that
claim, however, but soon bought another, on which
was a cabin built of slabs, where the family lived
for a time. He then replaced it with a more sub-
stantial frame house. He improved a good farm
anil lived thereon until his death, when an honest,
sober-minded, industrious pioneer passed away
from the scenes of his usefulness. The maiden
name of his wife was Julianne Stale}-, and she wns
born in the same county as her husband, and died
on their homestead in Partridge Township. They

were the parents of eight children: Louisa, Mrs.
Snyder. Juliett, Mary, Mcrritt, Amanda, Perry,
and Jennie. Mr. and Mrs. Snyder's union has
been blessed to them by the birth of three children
Susan, John, and Simie.

Mr. Snyder is virtually a self-made man, having
accumulated his money by patient toil and excellent
management of his affairs. He is a man of sound
understanding and solid worth, whose sterling traits
of character have commended him to the respect and
regard of his fellow-citizens. He is public-spirited,
open hearted and open handed, giving liberallj r of
his means for charitable objects, and materially
aiding his township and county in various direc-
tions.

A lithographic engraving of the residence of our
subject appears in this work, and brings before the
reader's eye a picture of one among many beautiful
rural homes in Woodford County.

ffiOHN DARST, the able and gentlemanly
| President of the Farmers' Bank of Eureka,
is a son of Jacob Darst, who was a native of
f^^f/ Augusta County, Va. The mother was a
native of Greene County, Ohio. His parents were
married and settled in Greene County, Ohio, con-
tinuing to reside there until they crossed the river
to their home beyond. In addition to managing
his farm, Mr. Jacob Darst also followed the occu-
pation of a blacksmith, tho village smithy thus
becoming the center of interest for the youthful
population for miles around. Their family was in-
creased by the addition of six children, of whom
John was the fourth. He was born Nov. 6, 1816,
;it his parents' residence in Greene Count}'. Ohio,
where he was reared to manhood, continuing to
live under the parental roof until 1838. During
his residence with his parents he followed the pur-
suits of agriculture.

In the spring of 1851 he came to this county,
and the following autumn removed his family to
Olio Township, near Eureka. In 1856 Mr. Darst
laid out the original town of Eureka, near his farm,

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

337

establishing his family within the limits of the cor-
poration, where they have since made their home.
On Jan. 6, 1882, in connection with Mr. E. O.
Eymon, Mr. Darst and his son Georre founded the
bank of Eureka, known as the Farmers' Bunk.
In 1885 Mr. Eymon withdrew from its man-
agement, since which time Mr. Darst and his son
have conducted its affairs. The first flouring-rnill
to be erected in Eureka was put up in 1857, Mr.
Darst being one of the company who built it. He
remained connected with the business interests of
the mill for some five or six years. The Eureka
College is proud to point to him as one of its
charter members. His well known integrity and
his extensive business experience have made him
a prominent factor in the growth and prosperity
of this superior institution of learning. He was
elected one of the Trustees of the college at the
first business meeting held by those interested, and
has continued in that office to the present time.
He has also been President of the Board for some
fifteen or twenty years, during all of which time
his unfaltering trust in the future of the college,
and his unflagging industry in pushing forward its
affairs, have redounded not only to his honor but
to the enlargement of its facilities and the increase
of its efficiency.

Our subject and Miss Ruharnah Moler pledged
hearts and hands in the marriage tie on the 22d
day of November, 1838, in Greene County, Ohio.
The bride's parents were John and Susan (Grumes)
Moler, natives of Virginia. Leaving their South-
ern home they removed to Greene County, Ohio,
establishing themselves on a farm near Dayton,
which they made their home until removed hence
by the .grirn destroyer, death. Mrs. Darst was a
native of Greene County, Ohio, having been born
April 22. 1822, in that place.

Mr. and Mrs. Darst have become the parents of
eleven children, viz.: Oliver P., Harrison H., Leo
C., James P., Henry R., Rolla M., Frank M., Susie
M.; John W. died at the age of eighteen years;
George W. and Jacob A. Summer's flowers and
winter's snows came and passed and came again,
until threescore and ten years had rolled them-
selves into eternity, bringing the anniversary of
the marriage of our subject and his beloved wife

around once again. This event was celebrated
Nov. 22, 1888, at their elegant home. All the
children with the exception of , John W., were
present to congratulate their parents on their suc-
cessful arrival at this station of life's journey.
Forty-three children and grandchildren brought
their Jove and good wishes, while three more were
unavoidably absent. Numerous and costly pres-
ents testified to the high regard in which this noble
couple is justly held by the community. Conspic-
uous among the many and valuable gifts received
was a gold watch of rare workmanship, which was
given to the father by the children, with the names
of the parents inscribed in the case, and also all the
children's names.

HARLES RIPPEL, since the spring of 1874,
_ has been a prosperous farmer of Wood ford
^^ County, where he has a farm located on sec-
tion 36, in Panola Township. When he first re-
moved to this county he bought eighty acres of
wet, swamp}' land, seemingly unfit for cultivation.
But it was in the drainage district, and after many
failures and under the most discouraging circum-
stances, Mr. Rippel has at last succeeded in getting
it well tiled, and now is the owner of 240 acres of
land, which having formerly been under water, is
now in a good condition. This is due to the man-
agement of Mr. Rippel, who to obtain this result
has expended no little time and money. Into his
farm he put over $1,000 worth of tile, while he
and his boys did the work in laying the tile, etc.
Now it is one of the most valuable farms in the
county.

Mr. Rippel is a self-made man, and what he
owns is the result of his own industry, intelligent
labor and enterprise. He is a member of the Lu-
theran Church, and has contributed liberally of his
means to promote the interests and welfare of the
church. Politically he is a Democrat and one of
the political leaders in this section. He is a man of
sterling integrity, honest, painstaking in whatever
he attempts, and classed among the best citizens of

338

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

the county and as one of the representative Ger-
man farmers of this section. Like all pioneers he
has been a very hard working man, and it is only by
enduring hardship and by the utmost self-denial,
that he has accumulated his present property.
During the first years of his residence in Illinois he
chopped cord wood nnd railroad ties while a resi-
dent of Adams County. He is now in the prime
of life, enjoying the fruits of his toil and of a life
of usefulness. He is universally respected and will
be long remembered as one of the foremost citizens
of the county for whnli he has done so much.

Charles Rippel was born in Prussia, Germany,
Feb. 2, 1835. He is the son of John and Henri-
etta Rippel, who gave to this son a good common
school education, and tried in every possible way
to fit him ns. well as their other children for the re-
sponsibilities of life. He gained a practical educa-
tion in the German language and after coming to
this country also learned the English language, of
which he is a fluent speaker. His journey to this
country was made in 1856, in company, with his
two brothers, Frederick and Christian Rippel.
They took passage from the port of Bremen in a
sniling vessel, and their voyage lasted for six
weeks. At last, however, they landed in New
York City, whence they all came to Fairfield County,
Ohio. There for a period of more than five and
a half years he worked for his brother, receiving
Ilia salary by the month. Finally he gained suffi-
cient knowledge of the English language to start
out for himself, and made his home in Adams
Count}', 111., for more than a quarter of a century.

Mr. Rippel has been twice married, his first
union being with Johanna Zeiger, who became the
mother of ten children, whose names are as fol-
lows: Amelia, who was married to Henry Gottel;
August, Christian. Adolf, Caroline, Minnie, Will-
iam, Chsirles, Frederick and Louisa. The latter is
dec-cased. Mr. Rippel in after years was again
mnrried; this time his wife was Louisa Heina, ann-
live of Germany. To them were born two chil-
dren, of whom one alone survives, Anna.

After making his home for so many years in
Adams County, Mr. Rippel at last changed his res-
idence to Wood ford County, of which he has for
somb years been an honored resident. lie nnd his

wife have become endeared to all the citizens of
the place which is now their home, and number
their friends by the score among those with whom
chance or design has placed them.

OHN M. GLESSING. It has been nearly
thirty-seven years since the subject of this
biography settled in Wood ford County, dur-
ing which time he was a carpenter and
mechanic. He also owns a good farm which he
rents. Frugal, industrious and persevering, he
met with the usual reward of industry, accumu-
lated a competence and is now living retired from
active labor at a pleasant and comfortable home
in El Paso. In Vermilion County, he has a fine
farm of 190 acres and in El Paso, has his residence
and grounds. His possessions are the result of
his own unaided efforts, as he began in life de-
pendent upon his own resources, and his career has
been the reflection of many of the liyes around
him men who form the bone and sinew of the
community, developed from the force of circum-
stances in their youth.

Mr. Glessing came to Illinois from Lancaster
County, Pa., where he had settled in 1842. His
boyhood home was on the other side of the Atlantic,
in the Kingdom of Wurtemburg. Germany, where
he first opened his eyes to the light April 22, 1821.
He comes of pure German stock as far back as is
known and possesses many of the admirable char-
acteristics of his ancestry. His father, John Fred-
erick Glessing, was also born in Wurtemburg, fol-
lowed the trade of a tub-maker for wine goods and
spent his entire life upon his native soil. He was a
skilled workman and to a large extent turned out
wine casks and other similar vessels, which were
required to be very strong and well built. He was
remarkably stout and active and lived to the ad-
vanced age of ei<fht3--four years. Both he and his
excellent wife were members of the Lutheran
Church.

The maiden name of the mother of our subject
was Dora Wheeland. She likewise was a native of

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

339

Wurtemburg and died there at the age of fifty-two
years. The parental family consisted of five sons
and one daughter. Three of the sons died un-
married. The survivors, besides our subject, are
Christina, the widow of Charles Vogt and a resi-
dent of Lancaster, Pa., and a brother, Gotlieb, who
still continues a resident of Wurtemburg, and is
employed as a timber and road inspector under
the Government.

The subject of this notice had the advantages >f
a practical education and when leaving school
served a thorough apprenticeship to the trade of a
cabinet-maker, which he followed until coming to
America. After that he gave his attention mostly
to carpentering until after leaving Pennsylvania.
In starting out on his journey to America he took
passage on the sailing vessel ' Burgundy " at the
port of Bremen, which, after a voyage of thirty-
four daN's, landed him in New York City. Thence
he made his way to Lancaster County, Pa., and
from there to Woodford County, 111., as before
indicated.

After becoming fully established as a citizen of
Illinois, with the prospect of a home and a compe-
tence, Mr. Glessing in 1876 took unto himself a
wife and helpmate, being married in McLean
County, to Miss Mary Rchrmann. This lady was
born in Prussia, Aug. 6, 1852, and is the daughter
of Lewis and Ludwina (Kloidt) Rehrrnann, who
were born, reared and married in Prussia. Mr.
Rehrmann learned the trade of harness-making
which, however, he did not follow to a great ex-
tent, being a soldier most of the time and a mem-
ber of the King's body guard with headquarters at
Berlin and Potsdam. In the spring of 1854 lie
determined upon emigrating to America, and set
out with his wife and daughter, Mrs. G., for the
promised land. For eleven years thereafter they
were residents of Connecticut, whence they re-
moved in 1865 to Atlanta, Logan Co., 111., and
later came to El Paso. Finally the father estab-
lished in business on his own account at Panola, and
dealt in harness and saddlery, until his death,
which occurred in September, 1885. when he was
nearly fifty-nine years old. The mother is still
living at Pano'a. Both parents had identified
themselves with the German Catholic Church of

which the father remained a member until his de-
cease and with which the mother is still connected.
Mr. Rehrmann politically, was a Democrat and had
been quite prominent in local affairs, serving as
Postmaster and Justice of the Peace, and holding
other positions of trust and responsibility.

Mrs. Glessing came to Illinois with her parents,
and when a young lady learned the trade of a dress-
maker which she followed two 3'ears prior to her
marriage, successfully conducting a shop of her
own at Bloomington. She at one time had charge
of the nursery in the orphan asylum at Normal.
Of her union with our subject there have been
born seven Children, two of whom, Albert and
Anna are deceased. The survivors are Alfred,
Emma R., Dora F., Barbara F., and Fred. Mr.
Glessing belongs to the German- Lutheran Church
and votes the straight Democratic ticket. Mrs.
Glessing is identified with the German Catholic
Church. During their long residence in this
county they have made many friends and are uni-
versally esteemed wherever known.

slIOMAS ROBBINS, is a well-to-do farmer,
and an honored resident of Linn Township,
where he has resided since 1873. Though
not an old settler of the county, he has become
thoroughly identified with its agricultural interests,
and has been eminently successful in the prosecu-
tion of his calling. He was born in North Hunt-
ington County, Pa., Feb. 2, 1836. His father,
Brintnel Robbing, was a native of the same county,
a son of Hezekiah Robbing, also a native of the
Keystone State. Briutnel Robbins, the great-grand-
father of the subject of this sketch, is supposed,
from the best information we have at hand, to have
been a native of New England, and was a pioneer
of Westmoreland County, Pa. He took up a large
tract of land bordering on the Youghiogheny
River, and erected a mill, which he operated in
connection with his farm labors, and resided there
until his death. The grandfather luid also a steam
mill, and carried on a farm while managing it until

340

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

about 1844. In that year lie removed to Illinois,
and located in Rock Island County, on Buffalo
Prairie, where he improved a farm, on which he
spent his last years. The maiden name of his wife
was Wilson, and she was likewise a native of Penn-
sylvania. The father of the subject of this sketch,
was reared and married in his native county, and
was there engaged in agricultural pursuits until
1870, when he came to Illinois, and settled in Linn
Township. He purchased a farm on section 7,
which remained his home until his demise in 1883.
The maiden name of his wife was Hannah Wiley,
who was born in the same county'as her husband,
and was a daughter of Sampson and Nannie (Mc-
Grew) Wiley. She died on the home farm in 1875,
where seven of their ten children were reared.

The subject of this biography was reared to agri-
cultural pursuits in the home of his birth, residing
with his parents until he attained manhood, and
then commencing life on his own account by rent-
ing land in his native township. In 18C5 he re-
moved to Sewickly Township, dwelling there until
1873. At that time he concluded to come West to
better his fortunes, so he sold the farm that he had
purchased in that place, and came to Wood ford
County. Here he bought the farm where he now
resides, which is well improved, with substantial
buildings, pleasantly located four miles southeast
of the village of Washburn. In addition to his
homestead, he has 160 acres of land, situated on
sections 4 and 7, Linn Township, which is under ex-
cellent cultivation, and yields him a good income.

In 1860, Mr. Robbins took unto himself a wife
in the person of Miss Nancy Gaut, a native of the
same township and county as himself, and a daugh-
ter of William and Isabelle Gaut. Three children
have resulted from this union Mary Isabelle,
Brintnell, and Hannah Rebecca.

That our subject is in prosperous circumstances,
is due to the fact, aside from the valuable aid lie
has received from his wife, that he possesses a
certain force of character and a capacity for per-
forming whatever he attempts, and that he is
blessed with accurate judgment and good powers
of discrimination. He has in a good degree those
traits that win the hearty esteem of all with whom
he deals, and have gained him many life-long

friends. A sound Republican in his politics, he
cordially supports his party at the polls. Relig-
iously, both he and his wife are members in high
standing, of the United Presbyterian Church.

ILLIAM R. GOUGII. A goodly delega-
tion of the old pioneers have wisely retired
from the active labors of life, and taken
up their abode in El Paso, among whom may be
mentioned as worthy of notice, the subject of this
sketch. He is quite an extensive landholder, hav-
ing farm property in Woodford, McLean and Liv-
ingston counties, aggregating probably 400 acres,
all of which is thorough!}' improved, and in a good
state of cultivation. Eighty acres of this is in the
town limits of El Paso, and is consequently quite
valuable.

A native of Lancashire, England, Mr. Gough,
was born Oct. 21, 1821, and for seven years in
earlier manhood followed the sea. In 1842 he
came to America, and lived in Columbia County,
N. Y., until 1844, engaged in merchandising. In
1854 he began railroading, which he followed prin-
cipally until retiring from active labor. He came
to Illinois in 1855, in the interests of a railroad,
and for many years was a trusted employe in this
part of the State. This calling seemed particularly
adapted to his capacities, and one in which he took
a peculiar pride. During these years he was
connected with various companies, including the
Chicago & Alton, Indianapolis & St. Louis, and
Missouri Pacific Railroads, and has been a resident
of the cities of Bloomington and St. Louis.

The father of our subject was Joseph Gough, a
paper-maker of Yorkshire, and whose family for
generations had been engaged considerably in this
industry. He spent his entire life in his native
county, dying at the age of ninety-eight years. He
married Miss Elizabeth Hall, who passed away
twenty-eight days prior to the decease of her hus-
band, and was about his own age. Both were mem-
bers of the Church of England. Joseph was the
eldest of his father's family, which was quite large,

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

341

comprising ten children, nine of whom lived to be
middle aged and over. He was married to Miss
Sarah llushton, who was born a ft-w miles from
Birmingham, in Staffordshire. After their mar-
riage they sectled in Lancashire, where the father
followed liis trade most of his life, but finally re-
turned to his native town in Yorkshire, and died
there when about seventy years of age. He sur-
vived his wife thirteen years. They were Episco-
palians in religion.

The subject of this sketch was the eldest son of
his parents, whose family consisted of two sons and
four daughters. He remained under the parental
roof until reaching his majority, and received a
good practical education in the private school.
His business experience began in an iron and hard-
ware store at Liverpool, where he remained until
setting sail for America, in 1842. He is one of the
few who have become thoroughly identified with
American institutions, and are proud of their
adopted country. He was married in Missouri, to
Miss Eunice B. Washburn, who was born and reared
in New York State, and who went to Missuori to
visit a sister, thus becoming acquainted with her
future husband.

To Mr. and Mrs. (lough there have been born
six children, three now living: Sarah, a teacher
who makes her home with her parents; Rushton
W., arid Josephine. One son, Joseph and two in-
fants are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Gough belong
to the Episcopal Church, and our subject, who has
always been active in local matters, votes the
straight Republican ticket.

IIAHLES McIIUGH, a practical and pro-
gressive farmer residing on section 25,
Greene Township, is one of the leading citi-
zens of the community. He was born in County
Donegal, Ireland, about sixteen miles from Lon-
donderry, Dec. 15, 1834, and is the fourth in a
family of nine children, whose parents are Charles
and Margaret (Foster) Mcllugh. His father was
born in Scotland, and his mother in Inland, but

was of Scottish descent. Their children were as
follows: William, Robert, George, Charles, Jane,
James, John, Martha and Margaret. Three of
that number are now deceased: James, who died
in Pennsylvania; Margaret, who died in Blooming-
ton, 111.; and Martha, who died in Indiana.

Our subject spent his early boyhood days in Ire-
land, and attended both the Protestant and Na-
tional schools of that country. When seventeen
years of age he determined to seek his fortune in
America, where three brothers and a sister of the
family had previously located. Bidding good-
bye to the Emerald Isle, and the friends of his
boyhood, he crossed the broad ocean, landing -in
New York City from the vessel "Arbor Gallitan,"
in which he had made the trip. For three months
he remained in the city, where he worked in a
marble yard, when going to Orange County, in the
Empire State, he secured work as a farm hand, in
which capacity he served three years. At the ex-
piration of that time, following the course of emi-
gration westward, he reached Illinois, and on the
26th day of November, 1855, he stepped off the
stage at Eureka. That was his first introduction
to the county, where he has since made his home.
For several years he again was engaged as a farm
laborer, and for some time was also an employe in
a hotel at Eureka.

In the year 1857, in Woodford County, Mr.
McHugh was united in the holy bonds of matri-
mony with Miss Catherine Wright, who was born
in County Monaghan, Ireland, of Scottish parent-
age. He then rented a farm in Olio Township,
which he engaged in operating for several years,
when he purchased 103 acres of land, also in the
same township. His purchase was made in 1876,
Elder John Darst, of Eureka, being the former
owner. For nine or ten years he made his home upon
that land, when, selling out, he purchased his pres-
ent farm in the autumn of 1885, taking possession
the following spring. It comprises 213 acres of
valuable land, the home is a comfortable one, and
the surroundings indicate thrift and enterprise.

In 1876 Mr. McIIugh was called upon to mourn
the loss of his wife, whose death occurred on the
22d day of October, at the age of forty-seven
years. Seven children were born of their union,

342

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

six of whom are yet living: John William ; Martha
A. died at the age of six months; George W.,
Leona, Annie, Tillie and May arc still with their
father. Mr. McHugh was a second time married,
April 15, 1878, when Miss Mary S. Hill became
his wife. The lady is a native of Ohio, and a
daughter of Richard and Mary (Worthington) Hill,
the former a native of Cynthiana, Ky., and the
latter of Clermont County, Ohio. In 1864 the
family came to Woodford County, locating near
Minonk. The parents are still living, and reside
near Secor. The father is now fifty -seven years of
age, while the mother is fifty-six years. Unto them
have been born eight children, namely: Thomas,
Mary S., James, Anna, Grant, John, Ellen and
Benjamin.

With her parents, Mrs. McHugh left her native
count}', Clermont, when a child, and became a
resident of Illinois. She was educated in the
schools of this county, and made her home with her
parents until her marriage with Mr. McHugh.
Three children grace their union Robert, Jennie
and G rover. Harmony and good cheer characterize
the home of this family, and the household is noted
for its hospitality.

Mr. McHugh is an industrious farmer, and by
his own efforts hns secured a comfortable compe-
tency. Though he began life in this country without
capital, working as a farm laborer, he has stead-
ily climbed the ladder of success, and prosperit}'
has crowned his efforts. As a citizen, he is true
and patriotic, and has a warm love for his Ameri-
can home and the free institutions of this country.
He has identified himself with the Democratic
party, of which he is a warm advocate, and takes
a deep interest in all public affairs.

AVID T. FAUBER, an honored citizen
of Woodford County, who has been prom-
inent in its public and political life many
years, is connected with its farming in-
terests as one of the practical, substantial farmers
of Roanoke Township, who have been so largely

instrumental in its upbuilding. He was born in
Augusta County, Va., Nov. 15, 1822. His father,
Samuel C. Fauber, was born in the same county
April 27, 1795, a son of one. Peter Fauber, a native
of Germany, who came to America in colonial
times with his parents, and on the breaking out of
the Revolution sided with the colonists and took
an active part in the war. It was the delight of
his grandchildren to hear him relate his experiences
of army life and to recount tales of his narrow
escapes from British clutches. He was a farmer
by occupation, and spent his last years in Virginia.
The maiden name of his wife was Fanny Cable,
and she was born of German parentage either in
Germany or America.

The father of our subject learned the trade of
a cabinet-maker and also that of a carpenter in his
youth, he possessing a decided talent for mechan-
ics. He bought a farm about nine miles south of
Stanton, where his children were all reared, and
they used to carry it on while he worked at his
trade. He made his home there till death called
him hence Oct. 10, 1872, at the advanced age of
seventy -seven years, five months, and thirteen days.
The maiden name of his wife was Jane Trout, and
she was born in the same county as himself, the
date of her birth being July 1. 1797, and she died
on the home farm April 12, 1884, at the venerable
age of eighty-six years, nine months, eleven days.
Her father, David Trout, was, it is thought, born
in Germany. He was a cooper by trade, and spent
his last days in Augusta County, Va. The maiden
name of his wife was Susan Whitsill. There were
eleven children born to the parents of our subject,
eight of whom grew to maturity, of whom the fol-
lowing is recorded : Sarah Ann married Samuel
Swisher, and died in Pettis Count}', Mo.; Mary
lives in Stanton, Augusta Co., Va.; our subject
was the next in order of birth; George lives in
Augusta County, Va. ; Elizabeth married Henry C.
Swisher, and they live in Hampshire County, Va. ;
Catherine married Henry Armstrong, of Stanton,
Va. ; Ellen married R. Ben ton, of South Carolina;
William is now deceased; Margaret, Rebecca, and
Andrew J. died when quite young.

He of whom we write grew to man's estate and
received his education in his native county, and

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

343

continued to reside with his parents till his mar-
riage. He then bought a farm of forty acres, a
part of which was improved and the remainder in
timber, and building a log house thereon, in that
humble abode he and his bride commenced life
together. They resided there till 1855, when our
subject, attracted by the cheap, fertile lands of
Illinois, and other advantages offered to an enter-
prising farmer, sold his Virginian homestead at a
good advance on the original price and emigrated
with his family to these parts. Shortly after his
arrival he bought 160 acres of land on section 14.
Roanoke Township. A small frame house was in
process of erection on the place, and twenty-five
acres of the land were broken and partly fenced,
but the remainder was wild prairie, except a small
tract of brush. The greater part of the prairies
here were unoccupied, and deer were still to be
found, while wolves and other wild animals were
common. There were no houses where El Paso
and Roanoke. now stand, and the distant towns 01
Peoria and Spring Bay, were the principal markets.
Our subject has resided here continuously since
settling here, and has reclaimed all of his land
from its original wildness, and has sold a part at a
good price for town lots, it being included in the
town corporation. His farm, owing to its fortun-
ate situation rear good markets, its fertility of
soih and other advantages, is very valuable, and
he has it under admirable cultivation and well
improved, with a fine set of substantial, roomy
frame buildings, and a good orchard of fruit trees,
and all the appurtenances of a model farm.

Dec. 24, 1844 Mr. Fauber and Miss Nancy Kin-
dig were united in marriage. Mr?, Fauber is a
native of Augusta County, Va., born Feb. 8, 1824,
a daughter of Emanuel and Betsy Kindig. Our
subject and his wife have eight children living, of
whom the following is recorded: Samuel H. mar-
ried Mollie Faubus, and lives near Oilman, Iroquois
County ; Emanuel I)., of Roanoke, married Mar-
garet Smith, and they have one child, Annie Lee;
Mary married Samuel Bullington, a resident of
Livingston Count}', and they have four children
Olive, Minnie, Elcena, Pearlie; Barbara E. married
Ed. M. Cox, of Roanoke, and they have two chil-
dren, William Winfield and David A.; Virginia M.

married John Heppard, of Roanoke, and they
have two children, David P. and Progress; James
W., living in Roanoke, married Minnie Peterson;
Alice married Joseph S. Risst.r, of Roanoke; Min-
nie Lee lives at home. Lavina J.. the oldest
child of our subject and his wife^born Oct. 24,
1847, married John Heppard, and died March 31,
1879, leaving one child, David Clarence, who lives
with his grandparents. Elizabeth Ann, the fourth
child of Mr. and Mrs. Fauber, bom April 9, 1854,
died Dec. 24, 1859.

In Mr. Fauber's life we have an example of the
true manhood that is an honor to any community.
Whether in public or in private life he has pre-
served the same purity of motive and integrity of
act, that have won for him the full confidence of
his fellow- men, and they have entrusted to his care
some of the most responsible offices within their
gift. He has served as School Treasurer many
years, and has represented Roanoke Township on
the County Board of Supervisors several terms,
and in that capacity rendered invaluable service to
his township. He is, and has been a Justice of the
Peace for the last sixteen years. In politics, he
has been a leader among the Democrats of this
locality, and has been a delegate to numerous
county and district conventions, and has acted as
Chairman. He is a man of earnest and sincere
piety, and his religious views are embodied in the
faith of the Christian Church, of which lie and his
wife are among the most active members. He has
been deacon and trustee of the church, and a
teacher and superintendent of the Sunday School.

R. JAMES TWEDDALE, the leading
ji, physician and surgeon of Washburn,
stands foremost among the members of
his profession as represented in Woodford
County, having a large and lucrative practice.
He has built up a beautiful home in this village.
New York City is his birthplace, and Oct. 21,
1832, the date of his birth. His father, (iarlies
Tweddale, was a native of Scotland, born in Wig-

344

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

tonshire, where his father, James Tweddale, spent
his entire life. He was the proprietor of large
landed estates, and as far as known had no other
business than looking after his extensive property.
But two of his children ever mine to the United
States, his sons Garlics and Andrew. The latter
settled first in Western New York, and later in
Hartford, Conn., where he died leaving no family.

The father of our subject was well educated in
his native land, and coming to America soon after
marriage, secured a situation as clerk in the Man-
hattan Bank, and was one of the most trusted em-
ployes of that institution, holding the position
until his death, which occurred in February, 1839,
at the age of twenty-eight years. The maiden
name of his wife was Elizabeth Patterson, and she
was a native of the same shire as her husband.
She spent her last years with her children, and
died in Illinois in 1867. She was the mother of
four children, the subject of this sketch being the
oldest. Mary married Braman Loveless, and died
in Kane County in 1866; Garlies lives in- Wood-
ford County. Elizabeth died in infancy.

He of whom this biographical sketch is written,
was seven years old when his father died, soon after
which sad event his mother moved to Saratoga
County, N. Y ., and located in West Charlton. There
he received his early education in the public
schools, and was advanced by attendance at Prince-
ton Academy. At nineteen years of age he utilized
his knowledge by teaching in Schnectady County,
teaching and attending school alternately, and dur-
ing the term of 1854-55 was an instructor in
Princeton Academy. In 1856 he came West and
located in Elgin, where he was employed in the
various occupations of teaching, clerking and
farming, in order to obtain the means with which
to defray the expenses of a medical education,
and during the year 1856 he commenced the study
of medicine with doctors McClure and Merrifield,
of Elgin, as preceptors. He subsequently attended
lectures at Rush Medical College, Chicago, and was
n-raduated from that institution in 1869. On the 5th

day of May, that year, he established himself in
Washburn, where he has practiced continuously
since with gratifying success both from a profes-
sional and financial point of view.

In 1861 Dr. Tweddale was united in marriage to
Miss Sarah Catherine Russell, daughter of Lemuel
and Sarah (Edwards) Russell, natives of North Caro-
lina and Kentucky respectively, and pioneers of
Marshall County, III., of 1832. Her parents are still
living at a venerable age. her father being eighty-
three years old and her mother eighty. On Jan. 7,
1888, death crossed the threshold of the pleasant
home of our subject, taking the amiable and beloved
wife and mother. Of the Doctor's marriage two
sons were born, Russell and John 11., a sketch of
the latter appearing in this volume.

Dr. Tweddnle has shown great skill in the treat-
ment of difficult cases; he is well abreast of the
times, keeps himself informed as to the new meth-
ods and discoveries in the medical world, and is
well-educated apart from his professional knowl-
edge. He is identified with the Woodford County
Medical Society, and the North-Central Illinois
Medical Society. He belongs to Washburn Lodge,
A. F. <fe A. M. In his political views he is a thor-
ough Democrat.

Jl OHN ENGEL, a worthy citizen of Panola
Township, with whose farming interests he
! is connected, was brought to Woodford
' County, by his parents when a small boy,
and was reared under the influence of the pioneer
life that obtained here in those days, and since
attaining manhood, has himself done much labor in
improving his farm on section 32, which now com-
pares favorably with the many other fine farms in
this township. He was born Aug. 18, 1845, in the
German Province of Lorraine, when it was a part
of France. His parents, Christian and Anne Engel.
were also natives of that province. When he was
about three years old the}' emigrated with their
family to America and came directly to Illinois, al-
though they did not locate in Woodford County
until about two years later, when they settled near
Metamora. casting in their lot with the pioneers of
that vicinity. Soon after their arrival the father's

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

345

useful career was suddenly cut short by his acci-
dental death while yet in the prime of a stalwart,
vigorous manhood. There were six children bocn
to him and his wife, three of whom are living, ns
follows: John, our subject: Joseph, a resident of
Iroquois County, ID.; Anne, the wife of George
Thorpe, Jr., of El Paso. After the father's death
the family remained near Metamora for a time,
and later the mother married again, becoming the
wife of Andrew Baughman, with whom she and
her children removed to Roanoke Township. There
our subject was principally educated in the public
schools, though his opportunities for schooling
were somewhat limited. He has in a measure
made up for those early deficiencies in his educa-
tion by careful reading, and is a well-informed
man. He early adopted the calling of a farmer,
and has made it his life-work. Having his own way
to make in the world, he has had some difficulties
to contend with, some hardships to endure, and
not a few obstacles to overcome before he achieved
success, but by patient toil, perseverance, wise
economy, and prudent management, and the aid of
a capable wife, prosperity has been attained, and
he and his family have a comfortable home, and all
the conveniences that are desirable. He has wit-
nessed much of the growth of the country to its
present condition as a splendid agricultural center,
with many fine farms and flourishing" towns, where
once wild animals roamed over uncultivated, lonely
prairies, and through tracts of forest, and he has
helped to bring about this change by his labors as
a farmer. When about twenty years old he came
to Panola Township, and in the northeastern part
of the township purchased eighty acres of land,
which he lived on many years, and was constantly
engaged in its improvement. In the spring of
1881) he removed to his present farm on section
32. This comprises 103| acres of well-cultivated
land, and is amply supplied with an excellent class
of buildings, and all things needful to make it a
desirable farm.

Mr. Engel and Miss Mary A. Thorpe were united
in the holy bonds of matrimony March 6, 1876,
and one son, George L., lias blest their union, born
Aug. 31, 1878. Mrs. Engel was born in Peoria,
this State, Nov. 15. 1854, a daughter of George

Thorpe, Sr., of whom see sketch on another page of
this work.

Self-made and self-educated, our subject may
truly be said to have made good use of his God-
given faculties, as he is in every respect a manly,
straightforward, trustworthy man, who is held in
high esteem by all who know him. He has the in-
terests of his township at heart, and as School
Director has promoted the cause of education
within its borders. A temperate man, and an ad-
vocate of temperance reform, he is an earnest Pro-
hibitionist in his political views. He and his wife
are worthy members of the Methodist Episcopal
Church at El Paso.

\J ACKSON PARKER, a retired farmer and
honored pioneer of Woodford County, now
residing in Minonk, is a native of Virginia.
He was born in Rappahannock County, on
the 2d day of November, 1819, and is a son of
James and Frances (Settle) Parker, who were also
natives of the same State. The family is of Ger-
man descent. The grandfather of our subject,
James Parker, was a drummer in the Revolutionary
War, and in later life received a pension for his
services.

James Parker, Jr., was born in Virginia, and was
married while in his native State. His wife died,
leaving nine children, namely: Thornton, Shelton,
Jane, Louisa, Matilda, Alcinda, Emily, Sarah and
one who died in infancy. After the death of his
first wife, Mr. Parker wedded Frances Settle, and
the following is a record of the family born of the
second union: Judge, the eldest, was killed at the
age of fourteen years ; Jackson, our subject, is the
second in order of birth; James is now a resident
of Washington, 111.; Joseph resides in this county;
Martin makes his home in Livingston County;
Lewis is now deceased; Mary Ann, now Mrs.
Turner, is living in Nebraska; Mildred is also de-
ceased. The family removed from Virginia to Ill-
inois in 1838. and settled in Woodford County,
near the Illinois River, but the following spring

346

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

removed to Wash burn, where the boys purchased
a farm. Not a house marked the site of the
present town, and for fifty miles to the east,
northeast and southeast, not a settlement had been
made. The parents resided upon the farm which
their sons had purchased for a number of years,
and then removed to Minonk, where the remainder
of their lives was passed. Botli died at an advanced
age, Mr. Parker at the nge of ninety-one years,
while his wife's death occurred when eighty-four
years of age.

The subject of this sketch was but nineteen years
of age at the time of the removal of the family
from his native State to Illinois. That was before
the invention of the railroad system, and the jour-
ney was made with teams. Six weeks after leaving
home, the party reached their destination, having
crossed mountains, forded streams and traveled
across barren prairies on the trip hither. Soon
sifter their arrival, Jackson and his brother James,
purchased eighty acres of land near the present
site of the town of Washburn, and together en-
gaged in farming for three years, when he sold his
interest. He then rented land which he engaged in
cultivating for some time, but in 1847 again pur-
chased a farm. On the 1 Itli day of March of that
year, he was united in the holy bonds of matrimony
with Miss Harriet Dobson, daughter of Thomas
and Mary Dobsou. Mrs. Parker is a native of
England, but in early life came with her parents to
this country, the family locating in Pennsylvania,
where Mr. Dobson purchased land and engaged in
farming. Later they came to Illinois, and located
in Marshall County, where the parents spent the
remainder of their days.

After his marriage, Mr. Parker began the culti-
vation and improvement of his farm, and followed
agricultural pursuits until 1865, when desiring to
retire from active life, he removed to Minonk,
where he has since made his home. He formerly
owned 240 acres of land, and Mrs. Parker owned a
tract of 120 acres. He still retains possession of
200 acres in Marshall County, and has twenty acres
within the corporation limits of Minonk. Six
children came to gladden the home of this worthy
couple with their presence, and five are yet living
Mary F., who is now the wife of Samuel Richard-

son, a resident of Minonk; Alice J., who is living
at home; Ida, wife of M. Campbell, also of Min-
onk; Nora, wife of Charles Stonier, who resides in
Marshall County, 111.; and Hattie E., at home.
Charles, the first-born died in infancy.

For more than half a century Mr. Parker has
been identified with the history of Wood ford
County, having witnessed almost its entire growth.
At the time of his arrival, the country for miles
around was in a wild anil uncultivated condition,
the prairies were still uncultivated, and the wood-
man's ax had left undisturbed the timbered regions.
Deer and wolves were still frequently seen, and
wild game was plentiful. In the changes which
have taken place since that time Mr. Parker has
nobly borne his part, and has done what he could
for the upbuilding and advancement of the county.
He has aided in the work of transformation and
progress, has participated in the development of
the wild land, and has been prominently connected
with the promotion of its public enterprises. In
company with Charles Dobson, he built the first
store building in Minonk, and was the first dry
goods merchant of that place, where he carried on
business for about two years. He subsequently
carried on a hardware store at that place fora short
time, and has ever given liberally to the support of
its social, educational and moral interests. In
politics he is a Democrat, and socially is a charter
member of Robert Morris Lodge, No. 247, A. F. &,
A. M., of Minonk. Few men are more widely or
favorably known than Jackson Parker, the pioneer,
and it is witli pleasure we record his sketch.

S. DENMAN, now deceased, was a lead-
ing citizen of this county. He was horn
in Essex County, N. J., Dec. 7, 1807, and
died at his home in El Paso Township, on the 25th
da3" of November, 1879, honored and respected by
all who knew him. He was descended from an
early and prominent New England family, and was
a son of Joseph Denman. His grandfather was
also named Joseph. He was born in New Jersey

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

347

of English extraction, and on reaching manhood
mnrried Miss Catherine Townley, daughter of
Kttiingham Townley, who was also born of English
parentage. His father, -Lord Townley, was the
founder of the family in America, having emigrated
from his native land to this country during the
Colonial days. He wedded a daughter of one of
the first Governors of Massachusetts, and made his
home in the old Bay State until his death.

The Denman family has for many generations
been prominently connected with the history of
New England, and its members have been leading
and influential citizens of the various communities
in which they reside. Joseph Denman, Sr., grand-
father of our subject, bore a prominent part in the
public affairs of his native State, where he was so
well and favorably known. He died in New Jer-
sey at an advanced age, and his excellent wife, who
was a lady of intelligence]and possessed of more than
ordinary ability, also died in that State.

Joseph Denman, Jr., was reared to manhood
under the parental roof, and on leaving home was
joined in wedlock with Miss Catherine Badgely,
whose family was also numbered among the promi-
nent citizens of New Jersey. They passed the
greater part of their married life in Elizabethtown,
and died at a ripe old age. Like his ancestry, Mr.
Denman was a man of note in the community where
he resided, and his fellow- citizens greatly honored
him for his ability and worth.

Our subject, whose name heads this sketch, was
one of a large family of children. His life was one
of usefulness, and in the various lines of business
which lie followed at different times he was gene-
rally successful. In early life he learned the
hatter's trade, which lie prosecuted far some years.
Whatever the occupation which he pursued, he
gave to it his whole time and attention, and by his
unbounded energy and zeal was recognized as one
of the leading business men of the community in
which he lived. On the 21st day of March, 1829,
he was united in marriage in Essex County, N. J..
with Miss Ruth J. Munn, a sister of the late Ira Y.
Munn, who was one of the prominent business
men of Chicago, where he owned and operated an
elevator of large dimensions for some years. The
family is descended from New England stock, and

its members have long been associated with the
leading educators of that section~ofTthe country.
David Munn. father of Mrs. Denman, was a highly
educated man and influential citizen, and served
his country in the War of 1812. She also num-
bers among her kinsmen the well known Stephen
Vale, who was connected with the American in-
ventors of prominence, being associated specially
with Prof. S. F. B. Morse in his electrical discover-
ies and invention of the telegraphic system. He
built the first locomotive that was ever built in
America, at Spud well, N. J.

After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Denman
began their domestic life in New Jersey, where
one child, a sou, was born unto them. In 1842
they started for the then far West, their destination
being Illinois. At length they arrived in Tazewell
County, where they first located. Mr. Denman
there purchased a cargo of eggs, which he shipped
to New Orleans, but lost on that investment.
Later he purchased land and experimented in rais-
ing hemp, but that venture also proved a failure,
and he lost considerable money in the undertaking.
Finally he became proprietor of a hotel at Tre-
mont, which he operated for four years, during
which time he entertained such distinguished
guests as Abraham Lincoln, Judge David Davis,
Geti. Shields, Gen. Gridley, and Stephen A. Doug-
las. After four years spent in hotel keeping he
abandoned that business and removed to Bowling
Green, where, in connection with his brother-in-
law, Ira Y. Munn, he opened a store and engaged
in general merchandising for eight years. They
were quite successful in that line and built up a
good trade. In 1856. however, Mr. Denman sold
out and purchased a farm of 160 acres of land on
section 7, El Paso Township, situated about one
mile southwest of the city. He secured the land
from the Government, which consequently was in
an entirely uncultivated condition, but in a short
time he had a considerable portion of the amount
under cultivation, and had erected good buildings.
These, however, were swept away by a hurricane a
few years later, but with characteristic energy he
replaced them by more substantial structures, and
built a pleasant residence which he surrounded with
beautiful shade trees, which to-day still adorn the

348

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

farm, and stand as monuments of the thrift and
industry of him who was the owner.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Den-man were born six chil-
dren, four of whom are now deceased, namely:
Munn; Alfred, who served as a soldier in the llth
Illinois Cavalry; Francis L. C. and Mary E., wife
of Adam Basford, who died leaving a family of
children. Those who yet survive are Theodore A.,
unmarried, who for some years was engaged in
business in Chicago, 111., Wisconsin, and Bloom-
ington, III, but is now engaged in farming with
his brother; William C., the younger, is a leading
young farmer of El Paso Township. He received a
liberal education in the schools of El Paso, and
remained under the parental roof until the death
of his parents, whom he kindly and tenderly cared
for until they were called home. He now owns
and operates the old homestead farm, which was
entered and improved by his father, and under his
able management it has brought a rich return for
his labor. He possesses good business ability, and
will doubtless become one of the wealthy farmers of
the county. In politics, he is a warm advocate of
the Republican party, while his brother Theodore
supports the Democratic party.

Mr. Denman is a prominent and influential citi-
zen of El Paso Township, and by his sterling worth
and strict integrity, gained a large circle of friends,
by whom his death was sincerely mourned. His
life was a long and useful one, and no person
could say aught against his character. He never
united with any church, but his wife embraced the
faith of the Episcopal Church. On the 25th day of
November, 1879, he passed away, and the county
lost one of its best citizens.

)EORGE W. HORNER, ex-Sheriff of Wood-
ford County, is one of the leading citizens
of Panola, both as a valued public official
and as one of its most enlightened farmers. He is a
veteran of the late Civil War, entering the army
ere he had attained his majority, and displaying
the courage, coolness and fortitude of a true soldier

on many a hard-fought battle-field, where his good
services won him the commendation and esteem of
his commanding officers, and would have brought
him promotion if he had not, with noble disinter-
estedness, refused a commission that lie might re-
main with his regiment.

Mr. Homer was born in Perry County, Ohio,
Aug. 12, 1842, a son of William and Susan Horner,
the former a native of Maryland and of New En-
land ancestry, and the latter born in Ohio, and of
Pennsylvania-German descent. When our subject
was about four years oltl his parents removed to
Licking County, Ohio, and in 1854 came to Illinois
to live. They left Licking County, October 10,with
their seven children, in a wagon covered with can-
vas and drawn by two horse?, and camped by the
way wherever night overtook them, and were some
twenty days in getting to their destination in
Wooriford County. They located in Kansas Town-
ship for a short time, renting land for awhile, and
during the war the father bought a farm in Olio
Township, near Eureka, and resided thereon fur a
time actively engaged in carpentering. His sons
carried on the farm But he finally came to Pan-
ola, and spent his last years here, as did his wife.
They were people of integrity and worth, and were
held in general esteem by all who knew them.

George Horner was a lad of ten years when he
accompanied his parents to this county. At that
time the surrounding country was still in a wild con-
dition, still in the hands of the pioneers, not having
madv much progress toward the advanced state of
civilization that it has since attained, and he may
virtually be said to have grown up with the county.
He received his education in the public schools of
Ohio and this State, and has still further extended
it by careful reading and close observation, and is
well posted on all topics of general interest. He
was bred to the life of a farmer, and lias since car-
ried on that occupation, except when his public
duties have caused him to lay aside private busi-
ness. Aug. 9, 1862, a few days before he was twenty
years old Mr. Horner enlisted in Company E,
108th Illinois Infantry as a private, and went forth
to fight his country's battles. His regiment was
attached to the 13th Army Corps, and operated
mainly in the western department. He was with

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

349

Sherman in his attack on Vicksburg, and took part
in the siege of that ciiy, and subsequently be and
his regiment were put under the command of Gen.
A. J. Smith, and took an active part in the cele-
brated Guntown raid, in which 8,000 brave men
went to battle with colors flying, and only 2,000
men returned to tell the tale of that awful carnage.
Our subject was also at the battles of Arkansas Post,
Grand Gulf, Champion Hills and Big Black River,
and at the sieges of forts Spanish and Blakely,
and took part in many skirmishes too numerous
to mention. For his brave conduct he was offered
the position of First Sergeant of another company,
but he refused it, preferring to remain with his old
comrades by whose side he had fought since enter-
ing the army He was engaged in the running
fight with Gen. Forest, the noted rebel cavalry
chieftain, in the celebrated raid at Memphis. Our
subject was honorably discharged, having done his
duty as a soldier faithfully and conscientiously,
Aug. 12, 1865, just three years to a day from his
enlistment.

After the war closed Mr. Homer returned to
Woodford County, and has been a resident here
ever since, making his home on section 29, Panola
Township, where he is busily engaged in agricul-
tural pursuits. His farm, one of the best cultivated
and most productive in the vicinity, comprises 180
acres of choice land, and is provided with all nec-
essary buildings and farming machinery, and every-
thing about the place is orderly and well-kept.

In every position in which our subject has been
placed he has never been found wanting in those
traits that win confidence and true respect, or in the
ability and intelligence to fulfill his duties in the
best possible manner. He was elected Sheriff of
Woodford County in 1878, for a term of two years,
and so well did he manage the affairs of that office,
displaying ready tact, great sagacity and discrim-
ination, that in 1882 his constituents honored him
by re-election to that responsible position for a
period of four years, the term having been length-
ened by law. His every act during the whole six
years that he was an incumbent of the shrievalty
would bear the test of public scrutiny, and his whole
course was such as to call down upon him the com-
mendations of all men irrespective of party. In Jan-

uary, 1 889 he was appointed to the office of School
Treasurer of Panola Township, and is to serve for
a term of two years. He is an active member of
the Republican party, takes a keen interest in poli-
tics, and also in everything that tends to promote
the highest good of his township or county, soci-
ally, religiously or materially.

The marriage of Mr. Horner with Miss Mary A.
Shaw, daughter of O. P. Shaw, of FA Paso, was
solemnized March 3, 1872. They have four chil-
dren, namely: Charles P., Clyde F.. Clara A. and
Chester. He and his wife are people of exemplary
habits, and are among the leading members of the
Christian Church at El Paso, and he is at present
serving as Superintendent of the Sunday-school of
that society. He is a valued member of the Grand
Lodge at El Paso.

ETER DONNER, the Assessor of Panola
1) 'Township, is likewise considered one of its
leading farmers, making his headquarters
on section 3, and taking an honest pride in
the operation of one of the best homesteads in that
region. He is a gentleman in the prime of life,
having been born Jan. 3, 1853, and is a native of
this county, to which his parents, Christian and
Catherine (Rogy) Don ner, came nearly forty years
ago.

The father of our subject was a native of Ger-
many, and after coming to Illinois, was married in
Woodford County to the mother, who was a native
of this State. The father operated as a farmer on
rented land about five miles west of Metamora,
from about 1849 until the spring of 1856. He
then settled upon the land which he now owns and
occupies. His first purchase was eighty acres, for
which he paid $fi per acre, and upon which no im-
provements had been made whatever, and there
were but two houses in sight in any direction out-
side of Panola Village.

By a course of unremitting toil and close econo-
my the elder Donner brought his first purchase to
a good state of cultivation, and subsequently in-

350

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

vested his surplus capital in additional land until
he became the owner of 200 acres. He had nothing
when landing in America, and his accumulations
were the result of his own unaided efforts. He
first followed carpentering for a while, and then
wisely concluded that farming would yield better
results.

Christian Donner, politically, votes the straight
Democratic ticket, and has been quite prominent
in local affairs, serving as School Director for many
y ears, as Road Commissioner and School Trustee.
Both he and his excellent wife are members in
good standing of the Mennonite Church. There
have been born to them seven children, only four
of whom are living, viz. : Peter, Bena, the wife
of J. M. Shaw, of this county; Katie, Mrs. Peter
Strubhar of Tazewell County ; and Anna, who is at
home with her parents. Besides his real estate in
Illinois, Mr. Donner owns property in Kearney,
Neb. Although now past sixty years of age, he is
still healthy and active. No man has taken a live-
lier interest in the growth and development of his
adopted county, and he may justly feel that he has
been no unimportant factor in assisting it to its
present condition. He has seen the time when
deer and wolves were plentiful in this region, sev-
eral of which he has brought down with his own
rifle. As one of the earliest settlers of Woodford
County, and possessing all the qualities of an honest
man and a good citizen, he is held in universal re-
spect.

Peter Donner, our subject, was but three years
old when his parents settled on the farm where
they now live. He received a practical education
in the common schools, and for a short time at-
tended Eureka College. He worked with his father
on the farm during his boyhood and youth, but in
1886 left home and began selling steam threshers
for the firm of Nichols, Shepard & Co., of Battle
Creek, Mich., a business in which he is still engaged,
while at the same time superintending the opera-
tions of his farm. He was married, Oct. 2. 1883,
to Miss Anna Risser, who was born in this county,
April 22, 1861, and is the daughter of John and
Anna (Farney) Risser, who are residentsof Roanoke
Township.

Our subject rents his father's farm of 200 acres,

and as an agriculturist is meeting with unqualified
success. In politics he is an uncompromising
Democrat, and is serving his second term in his
present office. In local affairs his aim is to support
the candidate whom he considers will best serve the
interests of the people. Enterprising, intelligent
and popular, there is before him a fair outlook for
the future.

>HOMAS SCOTT, a farmer and stock-raiser
of Panola Township, is one of the many
prosperous residents of Woodford Count3'.
His farm is located on section 8, where he has 120
acres of land, all under high cultivation and kept
in fine condition. When he made it his home he
found it in a highly uncultivated state, it being
covered with a rank growth of thistles and weeds.
Those were not conquered and subdued without a
great deal of trouble, but they at last disappeared
under the persistent efforts used to remove them.
Now he has a pleasant farm, with substantial farm
buildings, and a comfortable home, where he and
his family live happily, and in which they wel-
come their many friends.

Mr. Scott is an Englishman, possessed of their
many persistent, industrious traits, and having
enough of their noted stubborness to make him de-
termined and successful in whatever he undertakes.
The fame of England is to a large extent due to
their so-called '-stubborness," and perhaps it would
be a fortunate characteristic if Americans culti-
tivated it even more than they do. Our subject
was born Nov. 7, 1830, in Buckinghamshire,
England, to William and Charlotte Scott. He was
their eldest son, and received a fair education, per-
haps better than the majority of the young men of
that time were fortunate enough to obtain. In the
years of his boyhood and youth he attended quite
a number of schools of different kinds and grades.
In the spring of 1859 he emigrated to America,
taking passage at Liverpool, and occupying five
or six weeks in the ocean voyage. The}- escaped,
however, without any severe storms, having what
is called a "fair voyage." He came immediately

RAPH1CAL ALBUM.

PORTRAIT AND B1OG

^. Woodford County, 111., and for one year re-
mained with his brother. William Scott, near Meta-
mora. In 1800 he came to Panola Township, where
be rented bis farm for some time, but finally set-
tled on his present homestead in 18G4 or 1865. He
n0>v owns a well-improved farm of 120 acres of
land, all obtained by his own efforts. His original
purchase was forty acres of land from the Illinois
Central Railroad Company, which had been broken
but not cultivated. He soon afterward bought
forty acres near his first purchase, and subsequently
a( Uled another forty to this, making in all 120
seres of good land. Upon this he has made all the
improvements necessary to a well-cultivated farm
of the present time, and has added to the value of
the real estate by his labor. His has been a life
of hard work, battling with nature, breaking up
the prairie, and gradually reducing a seemingly un-
inhabitable tract of land to its now prosperous
appearance.

Mr. Scott has added to his pleasures and re-
sponsibilities by taking unto himself a wife, whose
maiden name was Keziah Clark, and who was also
a native of England. To her he wa> married, in
1852, in England. They have had a large family
of children, of whom the following survive: Ze-
jiora, who is the widow of William Tool, and a
resident of McLean County, this State: Mary A.,
who became the wife of Sydney Williams, a resi-
dent of McLean County; Sarah, the wife of George
Bell, living in Woodford County, III.: Adelaide
and Oliver 6. These children were all given good
educations by their parents, and were prepared to
take prominent places in the society which they now
adorn. Mr. Scott has served as School Director,
hut has never been an aspirant for public office,
preferring the tranquillity of home life to the noise
and tumult attendant upon the race after the
honors and emoluments of office. He does not
bind himself to any party opinions, but votes for
the man irrespective of party affiliations. His wife
owns eighty acres of good land in McLean County,
which contributes to the financial stilus of the

family.

" Mrs. Scott, as has been already mentioned, is a
native of England, and was born in October, 1831.
Ik-r parents were James and Frances Clark, also

born in England. Mrs. Scott emigrated to America
with her husband in 1859, and has been of mate-
rial assistance to him in his undertakings, and has
always been a wise counselor and faithful com-
panion. They have many friends iu their vicinity,
who all unite in wishing them continued prosper-
ity in the future, such as they have had in the
past.

EUBEN P. BELL, whose portrait is pre-
sented to the readers of this volume, is a
retired farmer, occupying a beautiful house
in Minonk, and is numbered among the
wealthy men of Wood ford County. He is a fine
representative of those persevering, thrifty and
prudent pioneers, who came to this section of the
country when it was yet in its infancy, and while
building up fine homes and enriching themselves,
have also become important factors in developing
the resources and aiding the prosperous growth
of county and township.

Mr. Bell is a native of Kentucky, born in Old-
ham County. March 31, 1810, to Robert F. and
Mary (Pembertou) Bell, natives respectively of
Pennsylvania and Kentucky. Joseph Bell, grand-
father of our subject, also born in Pennsylvania,
was a soldier in the War of the Revolution. He
wns a farmer by occupation, and in 1788 removed
from his native State to Kentucky, becoming a
pioneer thereof, and there he spent the remainder
of his life, dying at the age of ninety-six years.

To him and his wife were born eight children,
seven of whom attained old age: Robert, father of
our subject, was reared a farmer, and in 1809 mar-
ried in Kentucky, remaining there several years
after. In 1818 he* removed with bis family to
Indiana, residing in that State until 1833, when he
came to Illinois as one of its earliest settlers, and
located in Putnam (now Marshall) County, where
he had two years previously entered a tract of
land, and there he and his wife passed their re-
maining days, she dying when fifty- one years old,
and be at the age of seventy-nine years. Of their
family of nine children, all grew to maturity, the

354

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

following being their record: Reuben P.; Julia L..
who married .John Bates, died in Marshall County;
Frances is the wife of John Wineteer, of Minonk;
George F. died in Marshall County; Susan, who
married William Myers, died in Marshall County;
J. M. lives in Bureau County; John E. died in
Minonk; Elizabeth, who married Jackson Laudter-
man, died near Springfield; Robert died in Cali-
fornia.

Reuben P., of this sketch, left his native Slate
with his parents when a lad. and going to Harrison
County, Ind., finished his education and became a
tiller of the soil. He continued an inmate of the
parental home for some years, coming with his
family to Illinois and settling in Marshall County,
lie was industrious, energetic, possessed of financial
shrewdness, and with his ability to earn mone}',
also had the faculty of saving it, two qualities not
alwavs combined in the same person. Continuing
a resident of Marshall County, for many years, he
in the meantime purchased and improved 400 acres
of land, and accumulated a good property. In 1860
he came to Wooclford County ,"and bought a tract of
raw prairie land, which is now -near the center of the
city limits of Minonk, on which he built his com-
modious house, one of the finest in the place, the
buildings and their attractive surroundings being
indicative of the prosperity, excellent judgment
and good taste of the occupants. Mr. Bell is also
the owner of other real estate in Illinois, besides
that already alluded to, the number of acres in
his possession aggregating 1,500. Of this large
property all has been amassed since he came to
Illinois, and is due entirely to his own wise sagacity
and true economy.

Mr. Bell has been twice married. The maiden
name of his first wife, to whom he was married in
Marshall County, III, in November, 1837, was
Nancy Palmer, a native of Indiana. She died in
September, 1844, leaving him with one child. Fran-
ces, now the wife of .James Dennis, of Eureka. The
second union of our subject took place April 1,
1846, when he was married to Miss Lydia A.,
daughter of Charles S. nnd Mar}' Edwards. Mr.
.iiiil Mrs. Edwards were born in the United States,
of Welsh origin. In 1831 they removed from
Kentucky, where the birth of Mrs. Bell occurred

Dec. 31, 1827, to Marshall County, being among
the pioneers of that county. For a few years after
coming to Illinois Mr. Edwards taught school, then
engaged in farming, and is at present living i n
Rutland, at an advanced age, having been born
April I, 1806. Mrs. Edwards died at the age of
sixty-nine years. They had a family of ten chil-
dren, eight of whom grew to maturity, the follow-
ing being their record : Lydia is the wife of our
subject; William and James died in Lacon; Sarah,
who married Norval Baruum, died in Whiteside
County: John lives in Butler County, Nek ;
Charles lives in York, Neb.; Robert lives in Lacon;
Mary is the wife of J. II. Bovoort, of Rutland.

To Mr. Bell and his present wife have been born
two children, Sarah, wife of B. M. Stoddard, of
Minonk, and Adelaide, wife of William S. Marquis,
of Rock Island.

Mr. Bell cast his first Presidential vote in 1832
for Andrew Jackson, and has since then voted the
Democratic ticket. He has taken much interest in
local affairs, and has filled various township offices
acceptably to all. Mrs. Bell is an esteemed mem-
ber of the Presbyterian Church.

HILIP F. LIVINGSTON. In a history in-
tended to perpetuate the names and lives
of prominent people of Wood ford County t
an important place certainly belongs to
the gentleman whose name stands at the head of
this sketch, for he has the honor of being the first
settler in Clayton Township, as well ns one of the
earliest in the whole county. His residence here
dates from April 14, 18.54. when he settled on the
northwest quarter of section 7.

Mr. Livingston is the son of James and Miranda
Livingston, natives of New Hampshire. This fam-
ily for five generations have resided in New Eng-
land. The parents of our subject resided on a
farm in their nati-ve State until 1854, when they
came to Illinois and" settled in Clayton Township.
The father of Philip Livingston was married three
times, our subject being a child of the first mar-

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

355

riage- By his first wife lie had four children,
namely: Luoinda, who is dead; Hiram, who lives
in Buffalo County. Neb.; Isaiah, who resides in
>*e\v Hampshire, and Philip. The mother passed
a way in 1841. James Livingston was again mar-
ried, being united with Eliza Roby, by whom ha
bad three children, whose names are Nathaniel,
Liifindn and Martha. They are all deceased. After
the death of his wife, he subsequently married Fan-
nie G. Heath, who had accompanied her parents
on their removal to Illinois, and who died in Mi-
nonk, leaving no children. The father of our sub-
ject was Assessor of Clayton Township, and in
politics lie was in sympathy with the principles of
the Republican party from the organization of the
same. He died at his home in Minonk. in 1878,
having reached the age of seventy-four j-ears.

As before stated, our subject came with his par-
ents to Illinois in 1854, and in 1861 enlisted at the
opening of the great National struggle, and was
mustered in with Corn pan}* G. 17th Illinois In-
fantry. He was sent to the front, and participated
in the battles of Ft. Donelson and Vicksburg-, also
was in the siege of Vicksburg. He was wounded
in the battle of Ft. Donelson by a gunshot, which
disabled him, and prevented him from returning
to the service for the period of eight months. Al-
together he was in the service five years and one
month.

U[K>n the close of the Civil War, Mr. Livingston
returned home and resumed farming. ! 1865 he
celebrated the return of peace by his marriage
with Miss Mary filcCune, the daughter of Robert
ami Nancy McCunc. Her parents were natives of
Pennsylvania, and settled in Illinois in 1857. where
they both died. Mr. and Mrs. Livingston have
six children, namely: Eleanor Marinda, Robert
M., Philip F., Fannio, Nannie and Mars' B. The
eldest child is the wife of William II. Randolph,
a resident of Buffalo County, Neb. The others
are yet under the parental roof.

In politics Mr. Livingston is a strong Republi-
can, and has served as Town Clerk, Assessor, School
Trustee and School Director, all of which positions
lie has filled to the best of his ability, and to the
entire satisfaction of the community at large.

Mr. Livingston is the administrator of the estate

of his brother Nathaniel, and is also the guardian of
his two orphan children. Our subject and his fam-
ily are comfortably situated in their pleasant home,
and are met and welcomed in the most select circles
of society. Mr. Livingston is now the owner of
128 acres of laud, which is will improved and
highly cultivated.

NDREW J. GARDNER, late of El Paso,
departed this life at his home in that citj',
June '29. 1869. He was born in New Lis-
bon. Otsego Co.. N. Y.. June 4, 1830, and
was the son of Potter and Mary (Th UTS ton) Gard-
ner. who were likewise natives of the Empire
State. The father was a farmer by occupation and
spent his entire life in his native State, dying in
Otsego County when middle-aged. He lived the
life of an honest man and a good citizen, was sue-
cessful in business and respected by all who knew
him. His widow, although past eighty years of
age. is still living and remark.il ily active in mind
and body. She makes her home with her daugh-
ter, Mrs. William Newman, in Vermilion County,
this State. Both she and her husband identified
themselves with the Baptist Church, of which she
is still a member.

The subject of this sketch was the second child
in a family of four sons and one daughter, com-
prising the parental famih', all of whom lived to
mature years and were married. There are now
living one son and one daughter William H. and
Mrs. William Newman, both residents of Ver-
milion County. Andrew J., like his brothers and
sisters, received careful parental training. He took
kindly to his books at school, and at an early age
developed into a teacher, which profession he fol-
lowed during the winter season a number of terms.
He was entirely dependent upon bis own resources,
and the necessit}' for earnest effort was the means
of developing within him those qualities which
which have brought him success in life.

While n resident of his native count}-, our sub-
ject was married. Aug. 23, 1858, to Miss Eliza-

356

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

beth Angel, who was a native of Chenango Count}'.
N. Y. Mrs. Gardner was born June 9, 1837, and
is a daughter of Lewis and Lucy (Caswell) Angel,
who were likewise natives of tbe Empire, State.
Her paternal grandparents were Asa and Cynthia
Angel, natives of New England, and, it is believed,
were born in Rhode Island". Her family was first
represented in America by three brothers, who
crossed tbe Atlantic from Scotland, and founded
homes in Rhode Island, near the capital of the
State, prior to the Revolutionary War. They are
now represented by a large number of descendants.
Asa Angel and his wife spent their last days on a
farm in Chenango County, N. Y., passing away
when ripe in years.

The parents of Mrs. Gardner after their mar-
riage began life on a farm in Chenango County,
N. Y., and there spent the remainder of their lives,
each dying after having attained their threescore
vcars. They were most estimable and worthy
|>eople, and Baptists in religion. Their family con-
s-isted of four sons and four daughters, of whom
Mrs. Gardner was the fourth in order of birth, and
all of whom lived to become men and -women.
Three daughters and two sons are yet living. Mrs.
Gardner received careful parental training and a
good education in the schools of her native town-
ship, and was thus well fitted for her future posi-
tion in life as the partner of a good man's home.

Soon after their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Gard-
ner set out for tbe wilds of Woodford County,
11!.. locating in Panola Township, in the summer
of 1858. Mr. Gardner purchased 160 acres of
wild land, in the cultivation and improvement of
which be was successful, building up a good home,
which they occupied until the .spring of 1869. They
thiMi changed their residence to HI P.-iso, and Mr.
Gardner did not long survive the removal. He
was a man who read much, thus keeping himself
thoroughly informed as to current events, and em-
ployed his leisure hours in improving his mind.
Politically, he was a Democrat, and in religion a
I>:t|>ii.-t. lie presented the example of a true Chris-
tian life, and made for himself a record which his
descendants may look upon with pride.

To Mr. and Mrs. Gardner there were born three
children, one of whom, Frank A., died Nov. 20.

1863, aged three years. The survivors are: Flora
V... the wife of Frank Stitt, Cashier of the National
Bank of El Paso, and Lewis A., who remains at
home with his mother. Mrs. Gardner is a very in-
telligent lady, and has successfully managed her
financial affairs since the death of her husband.
Both she and her children are members in good
standing, of the Baptist Church. They occupy a
pleasant home in the central part of the city, and
number their friends and acquaintances among its
best people.

| OHN DOWN, a general farmer, residing on
section 7, El Paso Township, is an intelli-
gent and enterprising citizen, and one of
tbe truly self-made men of this county,
where he has m:ulc his home for almost a quarter of
a century, dating his residence from 1865. Few men
starting in life in like circumstances as he, have
been so successful, but he well merits the prosperity
which have attended his efforts, as he Ins labored
with untiring zeal to make for himself and family
a home.

Mr. Down was born in Devonshire, England,
near Highbickington, on the 21st day of Novem-
ber, 1837, and is a son of William Down, who was
also a native of the same count}-. On attaining to
man's estate, his father married Miss Elizabeth
Bragg, and they began their domestic life in the
community where they were born and reared. A
family of seven children, three sons and four
daughters were born to them. One daughter died
in England at the age of forty six years, but the
other members of the family became residents of
this count;-}', where four are yet living. The par-
ents spent their entire lives in the vicinity of their
childhood home, the father dying at the nge of
seventy years, while the mother, at the time of her
death, had long since passed the psalmist's three
score-and-ten, being called to her final rest in the
eighty-first year of her age. Both Mr. Down and
his wife were members of the Church of England,
thn Episcopal.

Our subject spent the days of his boyhood and

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

357

voiitli in liis native land, but at an early age began
earning his own livelihood. Since that time he has
been dependent upon his own resources, but
though he has met manv trials mid discourage-
ments, he has overcome all the dilliculties until he
is now numbered ainon; the well-to-do fanners
of Woodford County. When seventeen years of
aife. believing that the opportunities afforded in
tlie New World were superior to those of the older
countries of the East, he resolved to make America
llie scenes of his future operations, and acting upon
that determination, sailed from Liverpool, in the
American vessel, "Orient." After six weeks spent
upon the Atlantic, he landed in New York City, on
July #, 1855. He spent the succeeding year near
Baiavia, N. Y., and at the end of that time contin-
ued his journey until reaching Peoria County, 111.
On his arrival, lie was notonly entirely without capi-
tal with which to begin life in this land of strangers,
but .previous to leaving home he was compelled to
borrow $50 with which to pay the expenses of the
voyage. Part of that sum was obtained from his
brothers and part from a young girl, a domestic, who
for five years had worked in the same place in
England, where Mr. Down was employed. He re-
mained in Peoria County, from 185C until 1805,
covering a period of nine years, when he came to
this county and settled inPanola Township, where
he purchased eighty acres of land. He engaged
in operating that farm for a number of years, and
added greatly to its value by placing the entire
amount under u high state of cultivation, and
making useful improvements. In 1885, however,
he removed to his present home on section 7, El
Paso Township, where he owns a fine and well im-
proved farm of seventy-nine acres. From an
humble position, he has steadily worked his way up-
ward until he has now a comfortable competence,
and by his industrious life, upright and honorable
dealing has won the confidence and good will of
all with whom he has come in contact.

While residing in Peoria County, Mr. Down led
to the marriage altar Miss Ann Vailey, who was
also a native of Devonshire. England. She was
born Nov. 1. 1841, and is a daughter of John and
Ann (Lang) Vailey. whose birth also occurred in
the same county. By occupation, her father was

a farmer, and in the fall of 1855. he emigrated to
America with his family, nnd nnde his first settle-
ment in Peoria County, 111. At the age of seventy
years, he was called to his final rest. His wife
then came to this county, and died in El Paso
Township in Fehruar}-, 18S8. at the age of eighty
years. The}- were members of the Church of Eng-
land, and were highly respected |icople.

Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs.
Down, five of whom are yet living Lizzie, who is
a teacher of recognized ability in Panola Town-
ship; Minnie E.. Flora B.. Luella J. and Alice E.
arc at home. Two sons of the family, William and
Thomas are deceased. In politics, Mr. Down affili-
ates with the Democratic party. Himself and wife
attend the Baptist Church, and rank among the
best citizens of the county, where they are so well
and favorably known.

AMUEL L. KERR, M.D. The medical
fraternity of El Paso and vicinity, bears
fair comparison with that of its sister
cities, and the subject of this notice is no
unworthy representative of his profession. He
made his advent in this county in June, 1856, and
after one 3 - ear spent in Kappa established himself
at El Paso, where he soon entered upon a large and
lucrative practice, extending throughout this part
of the county. He has been a close student and
a careful practitioner, and enjoys in a marked de-
gree the confidence and esteem not only of his
patrons but the erftire community.

When a young man Dr. Kerr began the practice
of his profession in East Liberty, Allen Co.,
Ind., in May, 1850. He traversed the country on
horseback with his saddle bags behind him. and for
a number of years was frequently called out both
day and night with comparatively little rest. His
health finall}' broke down under the strain, and he
spent one 3 T enr traveling over the country, sight-
seeing and hunting deer and wild turkeys. This
year's rest and recreation were very beneficial, and

358

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

in the spring of 1856 he resumed his practice and
has since pursued it almost uninterruptedly to the
present time. Before entering upon the study of
medicine he had followed the profession of a
teacher nine terms.

A native of Washington County, Pa., Dr. Kerr
was born Aug. 11, 1823, at the homestead of his
parents, which lay on Pigeon Creek. His father was
Aaron Kerr, a native of New Jersey and the son of
Samuel Kerr. Joseph Kerr, the father of the lat-
ter, came from Scotland to America, with two
brothers prior to the Revolutionary War. He
married a lady whose first name was Elsie and
they spent the remainder of their lives in New Jer-
sey, living to be quite aged. The wife was like
her husband a descendant of Scotch ancestry, and
both were the offspring of old and substantial
families.

It is believed that Samuel Kerr married a New
Jersey lady. The name of his wife was Rlioda
Bescherer. who was born in 1757, and was the
daughter of John and Mary Bescherer, who are
believed to have been of Scotch parentnge. After
a few years spent in New Jersey, Samuel Kerr with
his wife emigrated to Washington County. Pa.,
where his death took place Dec. 31, 182!), when he
was within a few days of his seventy-third year.
He was a farmer by occupation and a Presbyterian,
in religion. His wife died Nov. 16, 1810, at the
age of sixty-two years and nine months. The
Kerrs have always been distinguished for their
splendid constitutions and great stature, and the
subject of this ske'tch in this respect is quite equal
to the accounts given of his ancestors.

To Samuel Kerr and his wife there were born
eleven sons and one daughter, the greater part of
whom lived to mature years and were married.
Aaron, the father of our subject, was reared to
farm pursuits and must have emigrated with his
parents when a young man to Washington County,
Pa., where he was married later to Miss Margaret,
daughter of John ami Margaret Nevin. Mr. and
Mrs. Nevin were natives of Ireland, whence thev
came after their marriage to America, during the
Colonial days. They located first in Washington
Count}-, Pa., and later removed to Beaver County,
where they spent their last days and died when

ripe in years. They belonged to the Sececlers'
Church, and were both possessed of stout and vi.

oroi's frames and more than ordinary intelligence.

Aaron Kerr after his marriage carried on farm,
ing in Washington County, Pa., and also manufac-
tured earthenware, being very successful as a
potter. In 1832, however, leaving the Keystone
State, he took up his abode in Carroll Countv,
Ohio, near the town of Carrollton, where he and
his wife spent their last years, he dying Sept. 28,
1846, when a little past fifty years, of congestive
fever. In religion he was an active Presbyterian
and in politics a decided Democrat. The wife and
mother survived her husband until April 2. 1861,
dying at the age of sixty years and three months.

To Aaron Kerr and his estimable wife there
were born the children recorded as follows: Sam-
uel L., oiy subject, was the eldest of the family;
John Jackson married Miss Cornelia Ilutciiinson,
and both are now deceased ; Sarah Jane became
the wife of John Elder, who was killed by being
thrown from a horse, and she was then married to
William Scott, her first cousin. They live at Scio,
Harrison Co., Ohio. Joseph Alexander took to
wife Miss Carrie Grisell. and operates as a banker
at Salem, Ohio; Margaret Ann became the wife of
Mr. Uriah C'oulson, an attorney and editor at
Sullivan, Ind., and is now deceased; Aaron Wylie
married a Miss Hebdeu. and is now deceased; his
widow lives in Bloomington, 111. George Nevin
operates a flour and feed store at Cotton wood
Falls, Kan.; Robert Harvey is married and farming
near Richmond, Jefferson Co., Ohio; James Mc-
Millen married Miss Lizzie Young, and they
are living at C'ottonwood Falls, Kan.

The subject of this notice when ready to estab-
lish a home of his own was married at Bellaire.
Ohio, near Wheeling, West Virginia, to Miss Caro-
line Ilutciiinson, who was born near Wheeling,
where she was educated and reared to womanhood.
Her parents were John W. and Maria (McConnell)
Hutchinson, who were of American birth and par-
entage, and are both now deceased. Mr. Hutchin-
son at the time of his death had been for some
time operating a woolen factor}' near Bellaire. His
widow later moved to Grand View. Iowa, where
she died of old age. Mrs. Kerr wasrone of the

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

359

eldest of a large family of children and received a
good education, completing her studies in the col-
lege at Washington. Pa. She is a very intelligent
and callable lady, and is the mother of eight chil-
dren, two of whom died in infancy.

The Doctor and his "family are Presbyterians in
religion, and our subject politically is a reliable
Democrat. He takes a lively interest in politics,
has officiated as Mayor of El Paso and likewise as
Alderman.

>ILLIAM MEGINNES, who is numbeied
among the prominent and progressive
farmers and extensive land owners of
Greene Township, has long been identified with the
history of tbis county, his residence dating from
1853, when he emigrated to the West and settled in
Roanoke Township. He was born in Franklin
County, Pa., five miles south of Chambersburg, in
Franklin Township, April 22, 1827, and is the son
of William and Catherine (Harmon) Meginnes.
On his father's side he is descended from Irish an-
cestry, and on his mother's side the descent is traced
in direct line to German ancestors, but for many
generations his people lu.d followed farming in the
Keystone State. The scenes of his first recollections
go back to his parents' home, where clustered
around the fire-side was a family of nine children.
That little band is now widely scattered, some hav-
ing removed to distant States, while (fibers have
been called to their final home. All, however,
reached manhood and womanhood, and the record
is as follows : Rebecca became the wife of Peter
Layman, and died at her home in Ohio in 1884,
leaving three children; Catherine married Benja-
min Hawes, and removed with her husband to
Texas, where death occurred, leaving one child;
John, who was married and had a family of seven
children, resided in Knox County, Ohio, until his
death in about 1867; Eliza is the wife of Simon
Christine, of Worcester, Ohio, by whom she has
nine children; Teena became the wife of James
Butts, and resided in Knox County, Ohio, where
tb.ree children were born unto them, but both par-

ents are now deceased; Henry resides in Wichita,
Kan.; William, of this sketch, is the next in order
of birth; Daniel, a furniture dealer of Boulder,
Col., and has two children: Mary is the wife of
William JSporaman. a resident farmer of Morton
County, Kan. The father of this family died Oct.
18. 1858, at the age of seventy-two years. His
people were characterized by strong physical and
mental powers, and were noted for longevity, many
of them attaining to very advanced ages. His wife
died in 1851, at the age of fifty-eight years.

Our subject remained under the parental roof
until twenty years of age and was educated in the
subscription schools. The lady who afterwards be-
came his wife, attended the same school, and they
were friends from early childhood. In 1847 he
left home and began learning the plastering trade.
During his three years of apprenticeship he worked
for $2 a month. When his term had expired he
began looking about him for some favorable loca-
tion, and came to .the conclusion that the West fur-
nished better opportunities than were afforded
by the older States in the East, so he left Pennsyl-
vania and emigrated to Worcester. Wayne Co.,
Ohio, where he worked at his trade until the fol-
lowing fall.

In that autumn he returned to his old home, and
was united in marriage with Miss Nancy Evey,
daughter of Michael and Lydia (Meyers) Evey,
who were natives of Franklin County, and of Irish
and German descent, respect ively. Their family
numbered seven children John, Fannie, Susan,
Ellen, Michael, Nancy and David. The following
spring after their wedding took place, Mr. Megin-
nes and his J'oung bride removed to Huron, Ohio,
where he engaged in plastering for two 3'ears. One
child was there born to them. John, who died at the
age of nine months. In October, 1855. they con-
tinued their westward journej- and became resi-
dents of Woodford County, where they have since
made their home. The expenses of the removal
had about exhausted Mr. Meginnes' capital, and he
began life in Illinois in verj- limited circumstances.
He purchased fort\ - acres of land in Roanoke Town-
ship, from the Illinois Central Railroad Company,
the purchase price being 5 per acre, the whole
amount to be paid within five 3'ears. That formed

360

PORTRAIT AM) BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

the nucleus of his present extensive possessions,
now amounting to more than 1,000 acres. It is di-
vided into four farms, two of which he has himself
improved, spending thousands of dollars for that
purpose. His home farm is one of the very best
in the county, his house is an elegant frame resi-
dence, barns and other outbuildings, which are
models of convenience, have been erected, wind-
mills have been put up, and the entire premises
plainly indicate prosperity, and. the careful super-
vision of an industrious and energetic ownfr. His
other farms are also in keeping with the one on
which he resides, and in Roanoke Township, where
he formerly made bis home, the dwelling was a large
and beautiful buck house. He has endured the-
trials and hardships which come to those who set-
tle in a new countrv, but notwithstanding the dif.
ficulties encountered, lias made his life a successful
one.

Since l>ccoinirig residents of Woodford County
the family circle of Mr. and Mrs. Moginnes has
bei'n increased by the birth of seven children
William, who died in infancy; Ella is the wife of
Richard Bryant, who is engaged in operating the
old homestead in Roanoke Township, and by her
marriage has become the mother of five children,
namely: Nannie Myrtle, Frank A., Charles E.,
Klbert R. and Iva May ; Henry the next of the
family, died at the age of twenty-one years; Lydia
died when seven years of age; Nannie J. and
William L. were twins, and the former is still with
her parents, but William died in infancy; Charles,
who completes the family, assists his father in the
management of the farm.

Mr. Meginnes and his wife rank among the best
citizens of the county, and are held in the highest
regard by all who. know them. He is a supporter
of the Democratic party in politics, and for six
years served as Clerk of the Township. The lady-
is a member of the German Baptist Church, and to
tier, in a great extent, is due the wealth which Mr.
Meginnes possesses, for industry, frugality and able
management of household affairs, has largely sup-
plemented his own efforts. The thought comes to
our minds when we look at the hale and hearty old
pioneer, as he is SIM rounded by wealth and pros-
perity, that " It is better to wear out, than to rust

out,'' not that he is by any means worn out, for his
step is elastic as in youth, while his firm, clear
voice, ruddy cheek and bright eye. bespeak a state
of almost perfect health in a gentleman past sixty-
two years of age. lie is a man of brain, nerve and
muscle. Promptness characterizes his work and
dealings, and- his very appearance indicates great
energy and endurance. Few men in Woodford
County are more widely known than William Me-
ginnes, and this volume would be incomplete with-
out the sketch of this worthy pioneer.

V T=^> I) HODGSON. The name of this gentleman
jfe) is familiar to a large portion of the resi-
,-'*' ^ dents of El Paso and vicinity, as one of the
most successful breeders of fine horses in Wood-
ford County. For the prosecution of this busi-
ness he has large roomy stables, titled up with
every convenience, and keeps about sixty head of
valuable equities, mostly of Norman blood and
several imported directly from France. He has
given the most of his attention to this industry
since 1882, although he has been interested in
horseflesh for the past twenty-five years.

Mr. Hodgson's beautiful home is situated at
the head of Main Street, El Paso, and com-
prises a commodious and tasteful residence in
the midst of a nourishing grove of large trees, with
a wide pleasant lawn, picturesque walks, and the
outbuildings, which complete the ideal modern
home. It is a popular retreat for the many friends
of Mr. Hodgson and his excellent wife, who oc-
cupy a high jx.'sition in the social circles of their
community.

Mr. Hodgson became largely interested in fine
horses while living on his farm, two miles from El
Paso, at the close of the war. He was one of the
first men to introduce the Norman breed into
Woodford County, and has exhibited some very
choice stock at the State, St. Louis and New
Orleans fairs, besides thdse nearer home, and
as the result of this has realized from 16,000 to
$8,000 in prizes. He left his farm in 1881, estab-

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

361

lisliing himself at El Paso, and since that lime has
given his whole attention to his present business,
jn 1880 he assisted in the organization of the El
pnso Agricultural Society, of which he was made
1'resident. which office he held for a period of six
vears. and is still a stock -holder and Director.
The Society has freed itself from a $5.000 debt
and has now a surplus in the treasury. Is the only
one of its kind in the county.

Wood ford County is largely indebted to Mr.
Hodgson for her present reputation as a stock-
breeding center, and there goes from out her
borders each year a large number of choice
draft animals. He has taken an active interest
in everything affecting the welfare of the Prairie
State, of which he is a native. He was born in
Tazewell County, Jan. 1. 1844. and is the son of
William Hodgson, a native of Ohio. The paternal
grandfather. Amos Hodgson, was born in North
Carolina and traced his ancestry to England. The
first representatives of the family in America were
Quakers in their religious belief, and among them
was George Hodgson, who it is believed settled in
Massachusetts. Later he or his descendants emi-
arated to North Carolina. Amos Hodgson took for
his wife Miss Mary Barnett. and upon leaving the
South they took up their abode in Wilmington.
Ohio, whence they came later and about 1828 to
this State. They settled in the wilderness of
Tazewell County, on Government land, when their
son William was a youth of about eighteen years,
and there spent their last days. William after at-
taining his majority was married to Miss Phebe
Bennett, a native of Ohio, and they bega|j life on a '
new farm in Groveland Township, where they
lived for the long period of fifty years; then
retiring from active labor they removed to Pekin.

The subject of this sketch was the second child i
in a family of three sons and four daughters born
to his parents, five of whom are married and have
families of their own. He was educated in the i
common schools and served an apprenticeship in
the stock business, working with his father who
pursued the same occupation very successfully.
He was first married in Tazewell County, to Miss
Sarah Worley. who was born there and is a daugh-
ter of one of its pioneer settlers. She died at her .'

home in Panola Township, this county, in 1872,
at the early age of thirty -six years. She was a
lady possessing all the Christian virtues and greatly
beloved by her family and friends. Of this union
there have been born eight children, four of whom
died young. Minnie, Etta, Gertrude and Sarah.
William E., a bright and promising young man, at-
tended first the schools of El Paso, then entered
Eureka College, and was one year at the Mili-
tary' Academy at Oxford. Mil. Later he en-
tered upon the study of law. which he has chosen
for his future vocation; Lester E. also secured a
good education and remains at home with his
father and two younger brothers, Eugene M. and
Charles W.

Our subject contracted a second marriage in
1881 at El Paso, with Miss Kate Gibson, a native
of this county. She received a thorough educa-
tion and careful home training. Her father,
George Gibson, is retired from active labor and
makes his home with his daughter, Mrs. Fleming.
Mr. and Mrs. Hodgson are noted for their kind-
ness and hospitality, and nothing pleases them bel-
ter than to see their friends in their pleasant home,
where they have every convenience for entertain-
ing and have gathered around them all the com-
forts and man)- of the luxuries of life. The father
of our subject voted for the two Harrisons, and
all the male members of the family have been
supporters of the Republican party since its organ-
ization.

HELD, a wealthy retired farmer, re-
siding in one of the pleasant homes of Wash-
burn, was for many years a powerful factor
in developing the agricultural interests of
Linn Township, of which he was an early settler,
and thus promoting the growth of Wood ford
County. He was for many years actively' and
profitably engaged in farming in that township,
and is still the proprietor of a fine farm there, be-
sides having valuable property in Washburn.

He was born in Baden, Germany, Sept. 24, 1823.
His father.Conrad Held, and his ancestors as far back

362

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

as known, were natives and life-long residents of
the same country. His father was a sober-minded,
honest man of industrious habits, and comfortably
supported his family by farming. The maiden
name of the mother of our subject was Mary
Wolfe, and she also spent her entire life in Baden.
There were five children born to her and her hus-
band Christian, Conrad, Jacob. Mary and John
all of whom came to America at different times,
settled in Illinois, and all married and reared fami-
lies, with the exception of Christian. The father
owned a small farm in the old country, and it re-
mained in the hands of the family till the death of
the mother, eight years after the father's demise.
On that our subject was reared to agricultural pur-
suits, and he remained a citizen of the Fatherland
till 1845, when he resolved, if possible, to better
his prospects in life by emigration to the United
States of America, where so many of his country-
men, with their simple, frugal, industrious habits,
had been so greatly prospered. And in the month
of August, that year, he set sail from Havre de
Grace, with his brothers Conrad and John, and after
a voyage of twenty-nine days landed safely in
New York. The\ - came directly to Illinois, by the
way of the Hudson River to Albany, the Erie
Canal to Buffalo, the lakes to Chicago, whence they
took a team for Peru. The only capital that our
subject possessed in all the world, was good health
and willing hands, but he was not long in finding
work, obtaining employment on the Illinois Canal
at Peru. He remained there two weeks, and we next
hear of him in Henry, Marshall County. where he and
his brother Conrad, bought eighty acres of timber
land for the sum of 150. It was located two
miles from Henry, and on it was a log cabin, in
which the brothers resided the ensuing three years,
and our subject then sold his share of the place to
his brother, and resumed working by the month for
a time. He subsequently rented land in Marshall
County, and was busily engaged in its cultivation
till 1858, when he settled on his farm, the one that
he still owns, he having previously bought 160
acres of wild land in Linn Township, and eighteen
acres in Cnzenovia. He had built a small frame
house on the land, and had a ftw acres broken,

which constituted all the improvements that had

been attempted before his settlement on the place.
In the busy years that followed, Mr. Held devel-
oped it into a valuable, highly productive farm,
provided it with suitable buildings, and increased
its area to 480 acres of choice land, which he has
since reduced to 240 acres, having deeded to each
of his three sons eighty acres apiece. In 1876 he
came to \Vashburn, bought a neat little farm of
eighteen acres of land adjoining the village, and
has resided here since in one o.f the coziest and
most comfortable of homes.

The first marriage of Mr. Held took place in
18501* Miss Lucy Shugart, a native of De Witt
County, 111. Their wedded life was not destined
to be of great length, for after they had been to-
gether fifteen years they were called upon to part,
death removing the patient, devoted wife and
mother from the scene of her labors in 1865. Five
children had been born to them Zion, John,
Charles, Kate and Jennie. Our subject was mar-
ried a second time, Miss Margaret Howell, a native
of Pennsylvania, becoming his wife. Mrs. Held
died Feb. 3, 1887. and Mr. Held contracted a third
marriage, with Wilhelmine Benecke, March 5, 1889.

When our subject came to Wood ford County, a
quarter of a century or more had elapsed since the
first settlement had been made within its borders,
and civilization had made much progress; good
farms had been opened, and several prosperous
towns had sprung up. although much of the county
was still in the hands of the pioneers. Especially
was this true of that part of it included in Linn
Township, and the country round about, which still
presented to the eye of the beholder its primeval
condition, the land being considered swampy and
worthless for agricultural purposes. It remained
for men of keen discriminination and shrewd, prac-
tical judgment, like our subject, to prove the con-
trary. That they have succeeded, perhaps far
beyond their expectations, is attested by the many
broad, rich farms of which this region can boast,
the beautiful homes and busy villages that have been
built up. Mr. Held may well take pride in the
fact that he has had a hand in bringing about this
great change. He has in every way proved himself
a worthy and desirable citizen of any community.
While a resident of Linn Township, he took a deep

PORTRAIT AM) BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

363

interest in its social, moral, educational and mate-
rial welfare, lie served as Assessor of the town-
ship, and held the office of School Trustee many
years, and in that capacity aided in securing the
excellent facilities the children of the present day
are afforded for obtaining a substantial education.
In regard to National politics, our subject voted
with the Democrat;-, but in local affairs he is inde-
pendent, supporting the man. not the party. He
is a faithful member of the Evangelical Associated
Church, and in him his fellow-members find an ef-
ficient co-worker in their labors for the good of
the community.

R. JAMES M. FISHBURN. The dental
* profession of El Paso finds a most worthy
representative in the subject of this notice,
who has a well-equipped oflice. pleasantly
located on Front street. After a thorough course
of study he. in 1879. established himself in busi-
ness, since which time he has been successful ami
is gaining an enviable reputation. He took a thor-
ough course of study under the. instruction of Dr.
M. H. Patten, then a leading dentist of this place,
and was given a diploma after a careful examina-
tion by the State Board. He has labored hard and
earnestly and has become well known to the peo-
ple throughout this part of the county as an
accomplished practitioner.

The Doctor lias been a resident of El Paso since
his boyhood days, and a resident of Illinois most of
the time since 1850. His father, Jacob Fishburn.
upon coming to Illinois settled in the vicinity of
Spring Bay, in the fall of 1850. Two years later
he removed to the vicinity of Washington, Taxe-
well County, settling upon a farm, and in 1854 re-
moved to a point three miles southeast of the
present city of El Paso. There he improved a
farm which he resided on some years, then took up
his home in the city, the site of which he first ap-
proached with an ox team nearly forty years ago,
and erected the first bouse in that vicinity. About
that time the Toledo, Peoria & Western Railroad

was being built through this action. After re-
moving into El Paso, the father of our subject dc
cided to go South and repaired to Little Rock.
Ark., where he purchased a fine piece of property.
He only lived there one year, however, then re-
turned to this county, and died in El Paso, Feb.
13, 1877, at the age of seventy-three years. He
was a prominent Democrat politically, and in relig-
ious matters a member of the Methodist Episcopal
Church. The descendant of a fine old family, he
was born in Franklin County. Pa., in 1804. and
traced his ancestry to Holland. His father, Philip
Fishburn, spent his last years in Pennsylvania.

Jacob Fishburn. the father of our subject, was
reared a farmer and was married in his native
county to Miss Mary Mahan. She likewise was a
native of the Keystone State, and is still living,
making her home with her daughter. Mrs. Eliza-
beth B. Hanna. widow of Harvey H. Hanna. late
of El Paso. Although eighty-one years old she is
still quite active and very intelligent. She has
been connected with the Presbyterian Church for
about fifty 3'ears. Her family consisted of five
sons and four daughters, all but one of whom are
living and married. The parents began their wed-
ded life on a farm in Franklin County, Pa., where
all these children were born, and the}' all came
to Illinois with their parents in 1850.

Dr. Fishburn after leaving the common school
attended the normal school, and subsequently
entered the office of Dr. H. M. Patten, with
whom he remained three years. He then de-
gun operating on his own account. He was mar-
ried in El Paso, Sept. 1, 1881. to Miss Flora A. E.
Sutton, a native of El Paso Township, and the
daughter of Frank and Mary (Barfoot) Sutton,
who are now resfdents of El Paso and retired from
the active labors of life. Mrs. Fishburn was
reared to womanhood under the parental roof, re-
ceiving a good education and followed the profes-
sion of a teacher before her marriage.

To the Doctor and his amiable wife there have
bean born two children, only one of whom is liv-
ing, Nina. Garnet died at the age of two years
and eleven months. The Doctor and Mrs. Fish-
burn belong to the Presbyterian Church, and our
subject stands high in Masonic circles, being con-

364

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

netted with .the Blue Lodge, Chapter, Council and
Comraandery, and is Treasurer in all four of these
hodies. His political opinions are in sympathy
with those of the Democratic party.

I ACOB C. WICKLKR, City 'Marshall of Min-
onk, was born in Richland County, Ohio,
Oct. 21, 1837. and is a son of Peter and
Barbara (Keller) Wiekler, the former a na-
tive of Wurtemberg. and the latter of Darmstadt,
Germany. His father was born in 1810, and when
a young man of twenty-two years came with his
parents, in 1832, to America. The family numbered
seven children, three sons and four daughters
Jacob is now residing near Sandusky, Ohio; Will-
iam makes his home in Peru, Ind.; Albertina is the
wife of Jacob Myer, who is also a resident of Peru;
Catherine became the wife of Christian Stroble.
and died at her home in Peru in 18.54; Mary, who
wedded John Statler, died in Peru in 1852;
and Marv, wife of Carl Frank, died in Cincin-
nati, Ohio. When the family .emigrated to this
country, they located in Richland County, Ohio^
where the death of the father occurred, but his
wife subsequently removed to Peru, Ind., where
she departed this life.

In 1835, in Richland County, Ohio, Peter Wiek-
ler was joined in wedlock with Barbara Keller, and
seven years later, in 1842, removed with his family
to Indiana, settling in what was known as the In-
dian reserve, near Peru, where he engaged in farm-
ing during the remainder of his life. lie passed
away in 1872, his wife surviving until 1888, when
she, too. was called home. The following children
were born of their union: Jacob ('., of this sketch,
is the eldest; William, who served his country ns a
member of Company E. "7th Indiana regiment,
was killed at the battle of Cliickamaugua; Mar}' be-
came the wife of Is:iae Cochran, and resides with
her husband in Peru, Ind.; George, who in 180 1,
enlisted in the 100-day service, and later re enlisted
for three years in an Indiana regiment, now makes

his home in Arizona, where for the past twenty
years he has been engaged in mining; Frederick is
a farmer of St. Clair County, 111.; Alexander died
in Peru, Ind., in 1888; Kliza is the wife of Cyrus
Crider, a resident of Peru; Frances wedded Frank
Ilinten. and died at her home near Peru; Katie
died in 1882, unmarried.

Our subject was but five years of age when his pa-
rents removed to Indiana, and on the farm near Peru
he was reared to manhood. Remaining under the
parental roof until attaining his majority, he then
left home, and at the age of twenty-two years be-
gan working at the carpenter's trade. In 1869, he
came to Illinois, and for three years followed his
chosen occupation in St. Clair Count}-. In the
meantime the South had declared war, and had
taken up arms against the Government. He could
no longer resist his patriotic impulses and on the
13th day of August, 1862 ) he enlisted, and was as-
signed to Company B, lllth Illinois Infantry, in
which he served three years. He participated in
all the engagements with his regiments, including
the battles of Itesaca, Dalton, Lookout Mountain,
the Atlanta campaign and the battle at Jonesville,
and thence marched with Sherman to the sea. Later,
he was placed on detached duty, and by water went
from Alexandria to New York City, where he took
the train for Washington, 1). C., where he was
afterwards mustered out. During his entire term
of service he was never wounded, taken prisoner,
nor did he have to remain in the hospital a single
day, but was always found at his post, faithful to
duty.

On receiving his discharge, Mr. Wiekler returned
to his home in St. Clair County, where he again
resumed work at his trade. After eighteen months
he removed to Fnyette County, 111., where, in 1869,
lie was united in marriage with Miss Susan A. II.
Kee, who was born in Philadelphia, Pa., in 1847,
and is a daughter of John and Mary (Willett)
Kee. The young couple began their domestic life
in Fnyette County, where Mr. Wiekler engaged in
carpentering and building until 1871, which year
witnessed his arrival in Minonk. For ten years he
worked at his trade, and being an expert workman,
received a liberal patronage. In 1881, however,
he was appointed City Marshal, which office he

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

365

still holds. 'From 1832 till 1886, lie also served as
Deputy Sheriff of Wood ford County, for seven
years was Constable, and for six years was Alder-
man of Minonk. His long continued service in
each office to which his fellow-citizens have called
him. testifies to his efficiency and the faithfulness
nnd fidelity displayed in the performance of the
various duties devolving upon him. Minonk could
not have selected a more capable Marshal, for his
course has fully justified the confidence reused in
him by his constituents. In politics he is .1 Repub-
lican, and a warm defender of the parly principles.
He does all in his [tower to promote its interests
and insure its success, and is regarded as one of
the leading followers of the party in Wood ford
County. Socially he is a member of Robert Morris
Lodge, No. 247, A. F. <t A. M., in which he holds
the office of Senior Warden; and also belongs to
L. G. Keedy Post. No. 160, G. A. R., of which he
is Quartermaster. His public and private life alike
nre above reproach, having ever been such as to
command the respect and confidence of all. He is
cordial and genial in manner, and has a host of
warm friends throughout the community.

By the union of Mr. Wickler and his -estimable
wife an interesting 'family of five children have
been born Mamie B.. .John A., Addie II.. Jacob
C., and Harry Raymond. All are bright, intelli-
gent children, and Miss Mamie is a talented young
lady, now engaged in teaching. She graduated
from the high school of Minonk in the class of
1888, and IKIS since followed that profession.

ENRY W1LLARD PIERCE. Among the
men who have been instrumental in pro-
moting the business interests of Kappa, is
the subject of this notice, who is conducting
a thriving trade in agricultural implements and
who is also the owner of a carefully cultivated
f.-irm not far from the town limits. He established
himself here in business in 1885 and is building up
a lucrative nnd steadily-growing patronage. Prior
to this, from the time he was a child of four years

he had been a resident of Palestine Township. He
is a native of Illinois, having been born in Gridley
Township, McLean County. June 21. 1858.

Our subject was the offspring of a substantial
old family and the sou of John B. Pierce, who. like
his parents, was a native of New York State. The
paternal grandfather. Willnrd Pierce, carried on
farming there a number of years during his early
life, then emigrated to Illinois and settled in Grid-
ley Township, where he became well-to-do. Later
in life, however, he crossed the Mississippi and
established himself in Missouri, where he lived a
number of years. Finally, returning to Illinois, he
took up his abode at the home of his daughter,
Mrs. Elizabeth Manning, of McLean County, and
died in the fall of 1887 after having attained to
more than four-score years. The wife and mother
died in McLean County early in the sixties.

John B. Pierce lived in Northwestern New York,
until a youth of sixteen year*, then removed with
his parents to Gridley Township. McLean Co.. 111.,
where he attained his majority. Not long after-
ward he was married in Wood ford County, to Miss
Margaret .). Shepherd. This lady was born in
Virginia, nnd was the daughter of Henry and Anna
( Logston) Shepherd, who had removed from the
Old Dominion to Palestine Township, this county,
earl}' in the forties. They were thus among the
pioneer settlers of this region at a time when their
neighbors were few and far between, and when the
country around them was nothing but an unculti-
vated waste for a number of 3' ears. The}' strug-
gled successfully with the difficulties of life in a
new settlement and succeeded in building up a
comfortable homestead where they spent their last
years, dying at a ripe old age. Their daughter,
Maiy J., was a diild of six years when their family
settled in Palestine Township, and there she devel-
oped into womanhood.

The parents of our subject after their marriage
established themselves upon a farm in Palestine
Township, remaining there until after the birth of
two children Henry W. and Caleb B. Soon after
the outbreak of the Civil War the husband and
father, in 1861. enlisted at Chicago, III., in Com-
pany B, 88th Illinois Infantry, and participated in
many of the important battles which followed. In

366

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

September, 1864 he contracted a severe cold which
settled upon his lungs and resulted in his death
within a few days, and before his wife and children
could know of his illness. His death took place in
the hospital at Nashville, Tenn., while he was still
a young man of only twenty-siK years. The wife
and mother was subsequently married to Anderson
.Van Scyoc of Palestine Township, and died March
28, 1882, at the age of forty -six years. Mr. Van
Scyoc is still living there.

The subject of this sketch received a good prac-
tical education in the common school and worked
at farming until ready to establish a home of his
own. He was married in Ford County, 111., May
1st, 1881, to Miss Phebe M. Ridgeway. This lady
was born in New York State, May 1, 1863, and is
the daughter of John H. and Lydia M. Ridgeway.
with whom she came to Illinois in 1868. They
located in Peoria County, where they lived for two
years, then removed to Ford County, where the
father improved a farm and remained until retiring
from active labor. They then took up their abode
in Chutswortb. Livingston County, where they
still live.

Mrs. Pierce received her education in the district
school, and under the careful training of her ex-
cellent mother became familiar, with those duties
which have so much influence in the happiness of
a household. Of her union with our subject there
have been born three children John L., Bertha
V. and Lester E. Mr. and Mrs. Pierce are promi-
nently connected with the Methodist Episcopal
Church, and our subject, politically, is a sound
Republican.

OHN E. DODDS has been engaged in agri-
cultural pursuits for several years on the old
homest