1886 Portrait & Biographical Album of Knox Co., IL

CAULKINS, SAMUEL, prominent among the public men of Knoxville, and holding the office of Justice of the Peace, is the subject of this brief personal sketch. He ranks high in educational circles, which enlist his sympathies and attention in a marked degree. He is also a deep thinker on matters of public and private good, and is an important factor in the Republican party as represented in his locality.

Mr. Caulkins was born in Washington County, Indiana, Oct. 28,1821, and his father was a native of New York, being born in Onondaga County in 1782. His grandfather, who, like his son, bore the name of Joel, was a native of New York, and a soldier of Revolutionary fame, claiming Washington as a commander, and drawing a pension all the later years of his life. He departed this life in Onondaga County, N.Y., in which part of the State the father of the subject grew to manhood. Early in life he made the acquaintance of and subsequently married Desire Barnard, also a native of that county. The newly wedded pair lived in that county until 1819, at which time they removed to Washington County, in which section of the country they were pioneers. Buying a tract of timber, he laid out his farm, locating its boundaries and making that their home until 1857, when he sold out and came to Illinois, settling in Iroquois County. Here he bought a farm and commenced to work it, which he continued the remainder of his life. His death occurred May 5, 1879, and that of his wife in 1858. In their family Samuel was the 7^th child in order of birth.

Mr. Caulkins reached maturity in the county which gave him birth, and during the years of his boyhood and younger manhood assisted his father on the home farm and attended the district school for the purpose of cultivating himself and adding to his education. He had a keen appreciation of advantages of this character and improved them assiduously. He continued at home up to the date of his marriage, which was celebrated Dec. 8, 1842, with Sarah Ann Stewart, a native of Ohio. Near the old homestead he bought land, which he worked until 1855, and then sold it and came to Knox County, where he bought 200 acres of land, on which a log cabin stood, and this, with the14 acres of broken land, constituted all the improvements on the place. Nevertheless he began the cultivation of the same undiscouraged, hedged it with osage orange, erected a neat frame house, commodious and durable, and planted fruit and shade trees. His efforts were to his credit, and the results were soon plainly apparent. He continued on his farm until 1882, when he sold and came to Knoxville, buying his present residence on North street, and a little farm of 58 acres inside the corporate limits of Knoxville.

Mr. and Mrs. Caulkins have calmly and unitedly trodden the path of life together, one in interest, affection and purpose, and their home has been brightened by the advent of seven children, viz: Elizabeth, wife of Samuel Harper, living in Knox Township; William , whose home is in Orange Township; Henry, who also resides in Knox Township; John, living in Knoxville; Martha, wife of Frank Peterson, whose home is in Orange Township; and Mary, wife of Perry Harper, a resident of Knoxville. Mr. Caulkins and wife are devoted working members of the Presbyterian Church, and support by their help and presence all philanthropic, charitable and worthy enterprises, and are highly esteemed as true friends and desirable neighbors.

CLARK, CHARLES S., engaged as an agriculturist on section 7 of Victoria Township, where he is enjoying success in his vocation and is regarded as one of Knox County’s respected citizens, was born in Roxbury, Delaware Co, N.Y., June 4, 1835. He is a son of Job W. and Hepsey (Wood) Clark, natives of the Empire State, who were married in Delaware County in 1833. The family of the senior Mr. Clark and wife numbered six children, four of whom are still living and bear the names of Charles S., William P., Sarah E. (Mrs. Powell) and Luman R. Those dead are Marion, who married C.D. Sornborger and left two children named Clifford and Clyde. The. Judson died in infancy. Upon arrival in Illinois, in 1855, they first located at Victoria Township, remaining there for two years, when they removed to Copley Township, purchasing 160 acres on section 13, and lived upon the same for one year. Thence they removed to the village of Victoria. By subsequent purchase Mr. Clark, Sr. added to his already accumulated possessions 240 acres. Mr. Job W. Clark died January 24, 1884. His widow still survives him and is residing at Victoria village, aged 70 years.

Charles S. Clark, at the age of 21 years, commenced to clerk for Whiting & Copley, with whom he remained for two years. He then engaged with his father in farming on shares on section 13, in Copley. He worked in this way for three years, when in 1860, he visited Pike’s Peak and mined there for about nine months. On returning to Illinois, he resumed farming on section 13, where he remained for four years. In 1865, Mr. C. purchased 160 acres on section 8, Victoria Township, and followed farming there for one year, at the expiration of which time he launched into the mercantile business at Victoria, in company with Homer Gaines, the partnership existing for one year. He then purchased 110 acres where he now lives, adding to the same by subsequent purchases until he is now the owner of 710 acres of highly cultivated land, the greater portion of which is valued at $75. per acre. Upon his fine farm he has erected a handsome dwelling with surrounding improvements, costing, together with other necessary and substantial buildings, $2,500. He is extensively engaged in the breeding of Short-horn cattle and the raising of cereals.

March 21, 1861, he was married to Miss Almina Hedstrom. She was born at Farmington, October 12, 1840, and is a daughter of Jonas J. and Diantha (Sornborger) Hedstrom, natives of Sweden and New York respectively. The parents came to Illinois in 1835, and the father engaged in blacksmithing at Farmington, Fulton County, and lived at that place for four years. In 1843 he purchased 60 acres on section 18, Victoria Township, and with others joined in laying out the village of Victoria, May 11, 1849, one-third of the village plat being located on his land. At that place he also engaged in blacksmithing and followed the trade for some years. Mr. Hedstrom was ordained minister in 1840, and was the organizer of the Methodist Episcopal Church (American) in 1847, and the Methodist Episcopal Church (Swedish), at Galesburg, in 1852, and the Swedish Church of Victoria in 1850. Jonas J. Hedstrom continued to preach and organize churches until his death, May 11, 1859; his wife died July 6, 1874. The family of Mr. and Mrs. H. consisted of five children, three of whom survive, and are named Almina, wife of our subject; Jane, who married a Mr. Becker, and George L.

The names of the children born to Mr. and Mrs. Clark are Irwin J., Mary L., who became Mrs. N.C. Robbins; Charles D., Jennie B., and John P. In political principles, our subject is a Greenbacker. He has held the offices of Road Commissioner, School Trustee, and Director, and is the present incumbent of the office of Supervisor of this town.

CLAY, HIGHLAND H., MAJOR, is a prominent citizen and farmer, residing on section 29, Galesburg Township. He was born in Windsor County, in the town of Chester, Vermont, in 1838. His parents moved to Illinois in 1840 and located in this section. Here he remained with his parents, working on the farm and at the same time attending the district school, until he was 14 years old, when for two years from that time he attended the Lombard College, Galesburg.

His father’s name was John L. and his mother’s Louisa M. (Balch) Clay, both natives of Vermont, the former being born on the 3^rd of October 1802, and the latter on April 13, 1804. They were married in March 1837, and 13 years subsequently came westward. They had a family of five children—A.C. Clay, William L., a daughter who died in infancy, Warren W., and Highland H.

The subject of this history and the youngest of his parents’ children, married Miss Jennie E. Clay on the 14^th of October 1878. The service was performed by Rev. William Copland, of the Universalist Church of Gaysville, Vt. They have four interesting children—Don Scott, born July 21, 1879; Emma, born June 22, 1880; John L., born June 1, 1882; and Walter T., April 26, 1884. Mrs. Clay is the daughter of James M. and Charlotte (Orcutt) Clay, both natives of Vermont. Her father was born Aug. 22, 1825 in Windsor County, and her mother in Bridgeport, on the 19^th of April 1827.

These excellent people were married on the 24^th of March, 1847, and still reside in Windsor County, Vt., where they keep a hotel, and have a family of four children—Emma A. (Mrs. Highland H. Clay), born Oct. 17, 1848; Cassius M., Sept. 14, 1850; Jennie E., Jan. 12, 1854; and Effie L., May 13, 1861. The paternal parent of Mrs. Clay is a Republican in principle, and he always voted that ticket in its thorough and unadulterated form. Cassius M. Clay, their son, is now residing in Nebraska . The father of our subject died on the 7^th of November 1877, but his mother still survives, and is living in the city of Galesburg, in her 83^rd year.

Mr. Highland H. Clay enlisted in the 102^nd Reg. IL. Vol. Inf. and was created First Lieutenant of Co. D. of said regiment, previous to his leaving Galesburg. He held the office for five months and was promoted to Captain of the same company, which position he held for two years. At the end of that time he was promoted to Major of the same regiment, which position he held until the close of the war. He was in the Army of the Cumberland with Sherman and took part in the Atlanta campaign. He also participated in the battles of Resaca, Ga.; New Hope Church, Cassville, Kenesaw Mountain, Marietta, Peach Tree Creek and the siege of Atlanta, besides many smaller battles and skirmishes.

From that date he took command of the regiment and marched with Sherman from Atlanta to the sea. On the 6^th of June, 1865, at the close of the war, he was mustered out at the city of Washington. During his whole career as a soldier he escaped from receiving the slightest wound. Being thoroughly patriotic, he made an excellent soldier and fine officer. He was held in high esteem by his comrades in arms, and by his genial disposition, natural strength of character and general upright bearing, won to himself an extended respect with his regiment and from all outside who knew him.

Mr. Clay is now the owner of 320 acres of improved land, thoroughly cultivated. His beautiful dwelling-house is surrounded by a grove of fine forest trees, and his out-buildings are of the substantial kind. In theology his views are liberal. He is a member of the G.A.R., No. 45 at Galesburg. In politics he is a stanch Democrat and a firm supporter of that school of thought. The grandparents of Mrs. Clay were Leonard Orcutt, born July 1, 1791, and Miss Sallie Breed, Aug. 8, 1791; they were natives of Vermont and had a family of six children—Tirzah, born July 28, 1816; Clarissa, Nov. 29, 1813; Willard, June 14, 1820; George, Feb. 5, 1834; Melinda and Charlotte. The present Mr. Clay’s grandfather was Timothy Clay, a native of Taunton, Mass., where he was born in 1760, and died in 1832. He married Miss Rhoda Lawson, a lady of very amiable character and high mental attainments.

COLLINS, EDWARD M., in 1848 there came from Pickaway County, Ohio, Michael Collins and his family, and located in Knox Township. He was a native of Ireland, and had chosen for his wife Miss Margaret Griffith. Early in life she came to this country, and in the year stated had become one of the pioneers of this beautiful county. The family later moved into Copley Township, where the husband and father died in 1861, and the widow and mother in the autumn of 1864. They had reared a family of 8 children, of whom Edward M. was the 5^th in order of birth. He was born April 29, 1839, while his parents were residents of Pickaway County.

Our subject was only 9 years of age when he was brought to this county with his parents. Here he was reared, spending his youth in assisting his father in cultivating the farm, and attending such schools as the neighborhood afforded. When he grew to manhood he embarked on the uncertain sea of life, himself alone at the helm. He has steered his craft free of the breakers upon which so many go down, and today is recognized as one of the well-to-do and leading agriculturists in his township. He is the possessor of 290 acres of land, 200 of which are tillable.

Dec. 29, 1868, Mr. Collins and Miss Hannah E. Young united their fortunes in the holy bonds of matrimony. Mrs. Collins was the daughter of Robert and Mary (Johnston) Young. (a sketch of the former is given in this volume). She was born in Persifer, Feb. 10, 1850. The names of the five children born to them are Katie M., Robert R., Ella G., Rollin E., and Jessie M.

Mr. Collins takes considerable interest in the public affairs of his community, and lends his assistance toward the progress and welfare of the neighborhood. He is especially interested in educational matters, and at present is serving as School Director. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and politically is a Democrat. He and his wife and eldest daughter, Katie, are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

COLLINSON, SIMEON L., among the most substantial business men and best known farmers of Walnut Grove Township is Mr. Collinson, who has always maintained a position entitling him to the confidence and good will of the community. He is now retired and resides on section 25 in this township. He was born in Yorkshire, England, July 7, 1806. His father was a farmer in the same county and died at the age of 82 years, at that place, after the son was grown to manhood.

The gentleman whose name graces this history spent his early days in farm life in England until his 25^th year, when he emigrated to the United States, embarking Nov. 4, 1831. He was seven weeks and five days crossing the Atlantic, and landed at New York City. In January of the following year he proceeded to Luzerne County, Pa., and took up his abode in Wilkesbarre. In 1838 he first came to Knox County where he has remained ever since, becoming one of the wealthiest land-owners in the district. At a period not long ago he owned not less than 2,400 acres of good land, and gave to each of his children by his first wife 200 acres of this, improved. To one child by his last wife he deeded 300 acres. His farm at present consists of 200 acres of improved property. Much of his land has been worked up to its present state of cultivation from originally unbroken prairie land, indicating an energy and perseverance in Mr. Collinson not often met with.

He was first married in Pennsylvania to Mary M. Craver. She was a German lady and born in that State. After a short illness she died at her home in this township, April 18, 1874, aged 61 years and 28 days. She was an earnest and thorough helpmate to Mr. C., a careful mother, and respected near and far by those who knew her best. Mr. Collinson’s family consists of 8 children, who evince to the observer the good bringing up and careful Christian training of devoted parents.

His marriage with Mrs. Jane McClure, nee Carnahan, in Victoria Township, was an event of much interest and took place Nov.1, 1874. This amiable lady was born in Scotland, Sept. 17, 1837, and arrived in the United States in July 1867, and at once settled at Altona, Knox County. She is the mother of one child by the latter union, named Ernest T., born October 17, 1875. By her first marriage she has had three children, one deceased. The two now living are named Robert and Thomas. The family are attendants of the Methodist Episcopal Church, where they are held in high esteem. Almost all the offices in connection with the township have been ably filled from time to time by Mr. Collinson. He was Assessor during the first two years after the organization of the township of Walnut Grove. His political convictions are in the fullest sense Democrat, his consistent attachment to principle in this regard winning him the good will of the party.

COVER, JOHN C., HON., is the present Mayor of the city of Knoxville. He is a stanch Republican and takes an active interest in local politics. Mayor Cover was born eight miles from Gettysburg, Adams Co, Pa, on the 9^th of March 1829, and is the son of Jacob and Mary (Jones) Cover, both natives of Maryland. He grew up from boyhood in the county of his birth, and his father, who was a tanner by trade, took him as an apprentice to learn the same when he was 14 years of age. Learning the trade, John followed it until 1854, at which time, being a young man of 25, with an earnest wish to get on in the world, and sturdy business principles, he launched his little boat on the wide sea of commerce, and purchased for himself a general store in Adams Co, Pa., at a point known as Flohr’s Church. His efforts being prospered, he sold out after a successful trade which lasted until 1856, and at this time, having disposed of his property to his satisfaction, he came to Galesburg, where he bought out a clothing store and commenced in this line of trade. This store he retained but a short time, coming to Knoxville in 1857, and opening a provision store. At the end of one year devoted to this business he was elected City Marshal and appointed Deputy Sheriff at the same time. These offices he held four years, and in 1862 was elected Sheriff for a term of two years, afterward appointed Deputy Sheriff, and in 1866, he, with William Armstrong, took a contract for the erection of an almshouse for the county. This was completed in 1867, and in the fall of that year he opened a book and stationary store, in which he continued up to 1883, when he disposed of the same and changed to the druggist’s business. This he followed only one year, at the expiration of which time he sold out to his son, who still carries on the business.

In the year 1866-67, Mr. Cover was elected Alderman, and in 1869-70 Mayor, which office he has filled in a manner reflecting much credit upon him and his many friends, by his just and equitable manner of dispensing public affairs. He holds the office of Justice of the Peace, to which he was appointed in 1885, the date of his re-election to the Mayoralty.

The subject of our sketch formed a matrimonial alliance with Isabella Mary L. Cooper, who was born at Gettysburg, Pa., Aug. 30, 1831. This happy event was celebrated Nov. 16, 1852. Mrs. Cover is the only daughter of Thomas J. and Margaret (Barr) Cooper. To Mr. and Mrs. Cover have been born one son and three daughters, as follows: Margaret E., wife of Frederick Smith, whose home is in Corning, Iowa; John F.; Mary Alice, who wedded Orton B. Arms, and who resided in Knoxville; and Mabel L., the youngest daughter, at home with her parents. Mr. Cover has given his children the benefit of a thorough education, the two older daughters being graduates of St. Mary’s School.

As previously stated, our subject is a public worker in all that has for its object the advancement of the moral and material welfare of the community in which he resides. He comes of the old line Whigs and entered the Republican party as one of its charter members, being one of the very first to join it at the time of its founding. He cast his first presidential vote for Gen. Scott and his second for John C. Fremont, and has upheld the doctrines of the party represented by the latter since that time. Mrs. Cover came of a direct line of Scotch ancestry, although her father and mother were both American-born, the latter entering life in Pennsylvania and the former in Maryland.

EDGAR, LOWRY J., is one of the enterprising farmers of Knox County, and resides on section 25 in Galesburg Township. He was born in Hart County, Ky., in 1827, and came to Illinois in 1835, with his parents, who located on the above section. He is the son of James and Sarah (Trowbridge) Edgar. The father was born in Iredell County, N.C., Jan. 5, 1781, and died Jan. 17, 1863, in this county. The mother was born in Essex County, N.J., April 10, 1787, and died Jan. 11, 1877, in Knox County.

They were married in Kentucky in the year 1807 or 1808, and were the parents of 11 children, born and named as follows: Thomas, born Jan. 19, 1809; David, May 27, 1810; William, Jan 15, 1812; Jane, March 11, 1814; Job, May 5, 1816; James, Feb 1, 1818; Martha , Jan. 4, 1820; John, Sept 12, 1822; Sarah, Oct. 5, 1824; Emma, Sept 12, 1829; and Lowry J. as above stated.

Lowry J. the 10^th child, married Miss Martha A. Brown, March 6, 1859; she was born in June 1833, in Hart County, Ky. Her parents, Armsted and Sarah (Ferguson) Brown, were also natives of Kentucky, the father being born Dec. 18, 1808, and dying Dec. 17, 1851 in Knox Co, and the mother was born Nov. 23, 1808, and died Feb. 25, 1874, also in Illinois. They were married March 3, 1831 in Kentucky, and had 6 children—Martha A., born June 18, 1833; David M, Nov. 15, 1835; Mary J., May 9 1838; William T., March 12, 1841; John H., Sept. 23, 1843; and James L., April 1, 1848. Mrs. Edgar’s father belonged to the Democratic party, and both father and mother were members of the Baptist Church. All of these children were born in this county except Martha. She is the only surviving member of her family, all the others having died in this county. Mary J. died Aug. 17, 1851, aged 13 years 3 months and 8 days; William died Aug. 4, 1851, aged 10 years 5 months; John H., Aug. 23, 1851, aged 7 years and 11 months; James L., Aug. 5, 1851, aged 3 years 4 months and 5 days.

Mr. and Mrs. Edgar have four children, one of whom is deceased: Willett S., born Dec. 27, 1859; Lillian J., born Sept 23, 1861, now deceased; Frank L., born Aug. 30, 1865; and Charlie C., born Jan 16, 1869. The following obituary of Lillian J. is copied from a local paper: “Lillian J., only daughter of L.J. and Martha Edgar, died Sept. 12, 1880, of consumption, at her father’s residence in Galesburg Township, three miles west of Knoxville, aged 18 years 11 months and 11 days. She was a young lady of unusual promise, and was dearly beloved by a large circle of acquaintances, and her sorrowing parents have the sympathy of the community in this sore bereavement.”

Mr. Edgar has 180 acres of fine land, on which is an elegant residence 35X35 feet in size, and two stories high. His barn is 30x44. He is doing a general farming business. Nov. 20, 1849 he started for California, going via New Orleans and the Isthmus of Panama, landing at San Francisco and going into the gold mines. Remaining on the Pacific slope four years and a half, having accumulated a little stock in the world, in the spring of 1854 he returned to Illinois, where he has ever since remained.

Mr. Edgar is a member of the A.F.& A.M. and was made a Mason in Pacific Lodge, No. 400, Knoxville, IL, in 1864. In politics he is a Democrat. Coming of pioneer parentage, and growing up with the country, he has well kept pace with the advance of his time and has carved out for himself in his adopted county and State not only a competency, but a character for rigid honesty, and has secured the confidence and respect of his neighbors.

JUDD, HERBERT, M.D., a distinguished physician and surgeon, residing at Galesburg, was born at Franklin, N.Y., Dec. 22, 1843. He graduated at Auburn, N.Y., in 1867, and came to this city in 1868.

OLMSTED, HENRY B., a gentleman who is closely identified with the agricultural progress of Knox County, is a retired farmer, residing on his beautiful farm, located in the township of Victoria. He was born Dec. 18, 1809, in Schoharie County, N.Y. His parents were Stephen and Cornelia (Van Buren) Olmsted, natives of Connecticut and New York respectively. The father departed for the better land in 1834, his demise occurring in N.Y. State. The mother came to Illinois in 1832 and settled near Alton, Madison County, and her death occurred about 1850. The parental family of Mr. Olmsted consisted of 11 children, five now living—Henry B., Stephen, John, Sarah, and Eunice. Stephen Olmsted and wife were devout members of the Baptist Church. Mr. O. was a Jacksonian Democrat, and professionally a teacher, giving instruction at the district schools; he was also a teacher of vocal music of considerable talent.

Our subject remained under the parental roof until 16 years of age, when he engaged with a merchant as traveling salesman. This he followed up to the age of 21. Then, with the money saved from his earnings, Mr. Olmsted purchased an 80 acre farm, to which he subsequently added 100 acres. This farm was located in Otsego County, N.Y. He remained upon this purchase, cultivating the same, until 1857, the date of his arrival and settlement in Copley Township, Knox County, upon 80 acres of land. Here he remained for the space of six years, when he came to Victoria village. In Victoria he engaged in the mercantile business for a period of three years. He then removed to the place where he now lives, which consists of 40 acres. He is also the owner of village property.

The gentleman whose biography we write was married Sept 16, 1831, to Miss Sarah Bemis, daughter of Zacheus and Susanah (Farnham) Bemis. They are the parents of three children, only one of whom is living, named Susanah, and now Mrs. William G. Carnes. She is the mother of one child, a son, Amos. Mrs O. died in 1838, and our subject was the second time married, to Catherine Wilder, Aug. 4, 1838. She was the accomplished daughter of Charles and Leah (Romans) Wilder, natives of N.Y., who died in Otsego County, the mother in December 1831, and the father in October 1836. Their family consisted of 8 children, five of whom are living and bear the names of Catherine, wife of our subject; Bernard, the second in order of birth; Jane, now Mrs. Osman; John L., second son, and Rachel, now Mrs. James Marshall.

The result of the union of Mr. and Mrs. Olmsted was ten children: Charles W. married Mary V. Wetmore, and they have become the parents of five children—Edgar, Arthur, Cora, Pearl, and Harry G. Sarah Olmsted became the wife of William M. Woolsey, and four children have been born to them, by name Harriet H., Henry B., Bert, and Catherine (Harriet Woolsey married Enoch Robinson and is the mother of one little girl, Mildred). Mahlon M. became the husband of Annie Ostrander, and to them have been born four children, viz: Jennie, Elroy, Mertia, and Charles. Milton Z. Olmsted took to wife Luna Foster, and they have one child—Jack. Henry K. married Agnes Ross; he had previously married Charlotte Tripp; she died, leaving no issue. Will O. Olmsted is the husband of Ora Whitman, and their children are Maud, Susie, Lucy, and Robert. Aaron W. Olmsted is the husband of Ettie Robbins and their family circle numbers four children, namely, Lester, Harry, Paul, and Blanche; Mary C. Olmsted became the wife of Alexander Harry Gordon, and to them four children have been born—Arthur, Effie, John and James P., Stephen Edgar Olmsted was an orderly in the 7^th IL. Cav. in the War of the Rebellion. He was taken ill, and died at the age of 25 years, in 1862, from typhoid fever contracted while in Camp Butler, Springfield, IL. Reuben died at the age of 6 years, and Osman died when an infant of 9 weeks.

Our subject and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which denomination he is Trustee and Steward. In politics the entire family adheres to the principles of the Republican party. Mr. Olmsted has served Copley Township as Assessor for four consecutive years, and is one of the prominent men of Victoria Township.

OVERLANDER, WILLIAM, one of Knox County’s prominent and successful farmers, residing on section 30, Victoria Township, was born in Richland County, Ohio, April 17, 1835. He was a son of William and Mary (Neal) Overlander, natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio respectively. The parents were married in Ohio, where they remained until 1835, the date of their removal to Illinois and to Victoria Township in the following year, locating on section 30, their present home, where the father had purchased some 400 acres of land. Upon this place they remained until their death, Dec. 10, 1847, and in 1877 respectively. Their family consisted of 8 children, five of whom still survive and of whom we give the following brief memoranda: Rebecca Overlander, now Mrs. Wilcox; William; Nancy, now Mrs. Wilson; Sarah Ann, now Mrs. Gillaspi, and Mary J. Hawkinson.

The subject of this biographical notice came to Victoria Township with his parents when but one year of age. At this place he attended the district schools, and when a lad of 17 years emigrated to California, in search of gold, and remained there two years, when he returned to Victoria Township and made it his home until 1855. We next hear of him in the States of Iowa, Nebraska, Missouri, and Kansas, looking for a location in which to invest his means in productive land. He afterward purchased 200 acres in Nebraska, in 1858, 14 miles from the city of Omaha., and lived on the same for two years, when he again returned to Victoria Township and made a purchase of 67 acres on section 30, to which he has subsequently added until at present he is the owner of 180 acres. He has always followed farming pursuits and is at present engaged in the raising of cereals and also the breeding of stock.

In 1860 occurred the marriage of Mr. Overlander, at which time Miss Lucy J. Olmstead became his wife. She is the daughter of Stephen and Clarissa (McMorris) Olmstead, natives of the Empire State. The parents emigrated to the Prairie State in 1856, and located in Victoria Township. Their family circle numbers ten members, nine of whom still survive. The record is as follows: Phoebe A., now Mrs. Harrington; William H., John R.; Lucy J., wife of our subject; James L., Stephen A.; Elmer D.; Sarah J., now Mrs. Waffle; and Walter M.

Mr. and Mrs. Overlander have a family of nine children, of whom we give the following: Ellen M., Lillie V., William S., Effie N., Katie, Eveline, Lucy, Reuben, and Clara.

Our subject is a Democrat, and has held the office of Pathmaster and also that of School Director, and is considered one of the solid and substantial men of Victoria Township.

REES, JOHN, a general farmer, residing on section 19, Walnut Grove Township, is the owner of 76 acres, mostly improved land. He came to the county in 1866, from Armstrong County, Pa. of which place he was a native, being born where Parker City now stands, on March 3, 1825. His father, Jenkins J. was a farmer and miner and lived and died in Pennsylvania.

This latter gentleman was born in South Wales, but came to the United States soon after his marriage. His wife, Catherine Jenkins, was also a native of South Wales. They were both of Welsh parentage. Her decease took place in Armstrong County, Pa.

The subject of this history was the youngest but two of seven children. He lived with his parents until he came to Illinois, in 1866, and was married in Oneida, January 1, of the following year, to Miss Elizabeth Finch, born in Ontario County, N.Y. April 8, 1838. In her 16^th year she came to Illinois with her parents. They were prominent farmers, who had lived in Altona most of their lives, since 1855, and they lie buried there now. Her father, Benjamin, died in 1858, and the mother in September, 1884. This lady’s maiden name was Matilda Rennett, and she descended of old American parentage. The present Mrs. R. has eight interesting children now living—Charles E., Walter F., John, Arthur, Ida, Edith, Carrie, and Jenkins B.

Mr. Rees was formerly identified with the Republican party, but in recent years he has become a Democrat and a consistent supporter of Democratic measures.

SMITH, EDMUND, of the names among the records of Knox County there stands out in bold relief that of Edmund Smith, who entered its precincts in 1844, settling on section 31, Persifer Township, in which township he now owns 55 acres. He has watched the gradual growth of this section of country, and feels that keen interest in its progress known only to those who first knew it in its lonely primitive state, dotted here and there with the humble log cabins which constituted the homes of its residents in the early days.

Our subject first saw the light of day in Granby, Mass., June 9, 1809, and had attained the age of 23 years when he came to Ohio. In that State he resided until moving to Knox County; he had followed the vocation of clerk in a store, after which he pursued mercantile business for himself a short time. On coming to Knox County he bought a farm in Haw Creek Township, where he lived for seven years. Accompanied by his wife and four children, in 1844, he settled in Persifer Township, renting land, soon after which he purchased 40 acres in the same township, upon which he remained four years. The third year of Mr. Smith’s residence upon this little farm, his dog went mad, and attacking his master, bit him severely. Mr. Smith heard of a madstone at Liverpool, a little town on the Illinois River, and immediately repaired there to test its efficacy. To his great joy, it proved all that had been claimed for it; his life was saved, and he has since felt no discomfort from the wound. Mr. Smith naturally recommends the madstone to all who may meet with the misfortune which he did. He states that the animal was raving mad and chewed its own tongue off.

Mr. Smith subsequently sold this land and engaged in the grocery business at Gilson. He was married in Gallia County, Ohio, August 15, 1837, to Sarah P. Rambo, who was born in the same county, June 9, 1818. Their family was large, consisting of 12 children, as follows: Benjamin, Reuben and Henry are deceased, Louisa is the wife of Lewis F. Roe and resides in Adams Co, IL; Charles makes his home in Haw Creek Township; Abraham is under the parental roof; William resides in Iowa; Rachel has a home in Knoxville; Cynthia is the wife of John Hughes, and resides in Haw Creek Township; Edmund’s home is in Texas; Sarah is the wife of John Lindsey, and lives in Haw Creek Township, and Maggie still continues at home. Two sons were in the Union Army, in the 77^th ILL. Vol. Inf.—Charles and William; the latter was for a time in a Texas prison, and both served until the close of the war.

In politics Mr. Smith is a Republican, which party he supports with voice and vote, and is an energetic worker in public affairs. He is also intelligent and interested in educational matters.

STEPHENSON, SAMUEL G., as we have previously explained, in Knox County remarkable changes have been made since Daniel Robertson located here. Many men have felt an interest in this, not wholly selfish. They are of reliability and substantial worth of character, and among these may be reckoned the subject of our sketch, whose perseverance in a good cause and his foresight in making his home just when and where he did, as well as his uprightness and integrity of character, have all tended to retain for him the high position which he now occupies.

Mr. Stephenson’s home is situated on section 8, Lynn Township, and he was born in Eastern Sweden, May 20, 1834. He was the third child in a family of six, and the son of a Swedish farmer who lived and died in his native country, and whose name was Stephenson Johnson. The mother, Sarah (Orinson) Johnson, also died in the country of her nativity.

Our subject lived at home until he was reared to manhood, and was married at that time, in April, 1853; his wife, Anna Larson, was born Aug. 10, 1828. She was born in Eastern Sweden, and her parents were farmers who lived and died in their native country. After marriage our subject lived and worked at general labor in his native Sweden, and in June, 1868, he and his wife and five children came to the west. They came directly to Henry County, where they lived for nine years. They left that place, and, removing to Knox County, have since resided here, in Lynn Township. Their farm they have beautified and improved, having held it since 1882. He owns 160 acres in his present homestead, and they have raised a family of ten children, five of whom are deceased. The following are their names: Matilda, wife of John Farmander, who resides in Phelps County, Neb., and is a farmer; Charles G. is married to Carrie Yden, and lives in Polk County, Neb., and is also a farmer; Alfred J., now residing in Polk County, Neb; Louis and Annie L. both reside at home.

Mr. and Mrs. Stephenson are agreeable and congenial people, who occupy a wide sphere of usefulness, and belong to the Swedish Lutheran Church. Mr. Stephenson is an earnest Republican, and seldom fails to vote for his party.

STUCKEY, JOHN A., Sheriff of Knox County and one of the most faithful officials the county was ever favored with, is the son of George W. and Mary (Compher) Stuckey, natives of Pennsylvania and of German and English extraction respectively. He was born in Bedford County, Pa., Nov. 29, 1835. The senior Mr. Stuckey was a farmer in earlier life, and still resides in his native county at the age of 73 years. His wife’s death occurred in 1861. They reared three sons and three daughters, the subject of our sketch being the eldest of the family.

John A. Stuckey grew to manhood upon his father’s farm, alternating the duties thereon with attendance at the common schools, where he acquired the rudiments of an English education. He came to Knox County in the fall of 1856, locating first at Altona. He removed from there in 1862, to a farm near Knoxville, but returned in 1865 to Altona and there was engaged in the hardware and agricultural implement business up to 1873. From the year 1873 to 1877, he devoted his time to ditching and ditching machines, and in 1877-80, he was Deputy Sheriff under A. W. Berggren. In the fall of 1880 he was elected Sheriff on the Republican ticket, and served two years, at which time, the law increasing the tenure of the office having gone into effect, he was re-elected in 1882 for the ensuing four years.

Mr. Stuckey was united in marriage at Knoxville, in 1860, with Miss Margaret Norris, a native of Maryland and the four children born to them are George N., a bookkeeper; Samuel B., Deputy Sheriff; Nellie and Johnnie. Mr. Stuckey is known as an active Republican; has filled many minor offices of the township in which he so long resided; is a member of the I .O .O. F.., identified with no particular church, and enjoys the friendship and confidence of all the better elements of the community. Though not wealthy, he is in comfortable circumstances, and like a majority of the men worthy of a place in this volume, what of this world’s goods he has have been acquired by his own individual effort and industry. It is gratifying to the publishers to present a portrait of this gentleman in connection with this brief outline of his life, and we know his friends, who are found in all parts of the county, will be highly pleased. Mr. Stuckey is a stern, matter-of-fact sort of a man and admirably fitted for the responsible position he holds.

BARNETT, JOHN T., resides on section 18 in Galesburg Township, and is a prominent farmer in his vicinity. He was born in Sullivan County, Tenn., on the 20^th of October 1809, and remained at his parent’s home up to his 21^st year. His father, James H., was born on the Oconee River, in the State of Georgia, on the 27^th of September, 1788. He moved however, at a later date, to East Tennessee, and there entered into mercantile pursuits. He subsequently taught school for some years, and died on the 22^nd of September 1822. His wife was Miss Mary A. Tipton, whom he married about the year 1808. She was born on the 3^rd of March 1793, in Shenandoah County, Virginia. She died on her birthday, March 3, 1869 in Sangamon County, IL. By the marriage four children were born—John T., William, Joseph H., and Nancy. John T. and Joseph are the only survivors of the family. The former, the subject of this notice, married Miss Melinda Robinson on the 22^nd of Nov. 1831 in Sangamon Co, IL. This good lady was born on the 11^th of November, 1806 in Oneida County, N.Y. By the union there were born as follows: James R., Sept. 22, 1832; Charles M., Dec 24, 1833; Elkan, Feb. 2, 1834; William, Jan. 8, 1836; Mary E., April 1, 1838; Emily J., Aug.7, 1840; Martha J., Aug.7, 1842; and Joseph A., June 29, 1846.

The father of Mrs. Barnett was Charles Robinson, born in New York on the 5^th of June 1785. He married Miss Jerusha Kellogg, who was born Nov. 15, 1785, the ceremony taking place on June 22, 1804. Her demise occurred on the 23^rd of August, 1836. Charles, her husband, died on the 4^th of October 1840. They were both from Oneida Co, N.Y., and had the following children: Chauncy, born March 27, 1805; Melinda, Nov. 11, 1806; John K., Oct. 2, 1808; James, Sept. 11, 1810; Lucinda, July 20, 1814; Louis, Oct. 28, 1816; Maria, Jan. 10, 1819; Eliza R., June 4, 1820; Julia A., Feb. 14, 1822; Charles, Feb. 15, 1824; and Seth K., Dec. 7, 1827. Of the above family Seth and Charles were born in Illinois, and Chauncy and Melinda in New York. The parents first arrived in Illinois in 1822. The subject of this biography, accompanied by his mother and stepfather, Mr. Richard Dunlap, came in 1829. He is now the possessor of 143 acres of prime land, on which is erected a comfortable residence and suitable out-buildings. On the 22^nd of November, 1881, Mr. Barnett had the great pleasure of celebrating his golden wedding. This was a great event in his and his wife’s life, and drew around the family a large circle of warm sympathizers and old acquaintances. He has been elected Justice of the Peace, and for 20 years has served in that office with special distinction. In the office of County Commissioner for several years he has acted with untiring energy and credit to himself. This latter post he has held in Hancock County. He has also filled the position of Assessor of Galesburg Township for five years, as well as filling the office of Town Clerk for four years. Politically he has always been a Democrat, and voted for Andrew Jackson for President, in 1832, and has voted for President at each presidential election since then. Now, at the age of 77, we find him hale and hearty. He has always been regarded as public-spirited, and enterprising. He is a fair type of the pioneer settlers of the State who are fast passing away.

BARTON, THOMAS M., is a farmer, a resident on section 16 in Knox Township, and is one of the most solid and substantial men in that vicinity. He is well known and popular in his county and township, and has been very prosperous in his chosen vocation. He was born in Chestnut Township, Nov. 3, 1840, and is the son of Ozias and Rachel (Massie) Barton. He assisted his father on the farm during boyhood and was educated in the district schools.

He made his home under the parental roof until his marriage, March 6, 1862. This was celebrated with Amelia Humphrey as the other contracting party. She was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, Feb. 17, 1845, and is the daughter of Elder Cyrus and Henrietta (Baughman) Humphrey. At the time of his marriage, Mr. Barton located in Chestnut Township, where he rented land two years; was then in Knox Township two years, and subsequently bought the farm he now occupies. Seven children were born of their union—George H., Rachel L., John Q., Mary Henrietta, Cyrus A., Almond E., and Phebe Arizona.

Mr. Barton is a member of Pacific Lodge, No. 400, A.F.& A.M., and Wataga Lodge, I.O.O. F., and Knoxville Lodge, K.of L. George H. Barton is also a member of Pacific Lodge, No. 400.

Mr. B. has always been a Republican in politics and takes considerable interest in the affairs of the nation, and has so long been an actor in political affairs that he knows much of the growth and progress of the Republican party. He cast his first vote for Abraham Lincoln.

In the main Mr. Barton has been successful in life, but was the recipient of a heavy blow in the loss of his home in 1875. His house was a two-story frame building, and at six o’clock in the evening, on the 5^th of August, in that year, the family being all at home, they were rendered almost entirely helpless with terror by a cyclone striking the house. It came upon them with tremendous force, tearing the house by atoms, yet, by some miracle, or other intervention of God’s providence, no lives were lost, although all the family were more or less hurt, Mr. Barton having six ribs broken. Parts of the house were carried in every direction and for long distances. It was an hour of the greatest fear and trouble, yet so thankful were they to a protecting God for His goodness in saving their lives that the loss of their home, though heavy, seemed to them as of minor consequence. The husband and wife were laid up for several months, and cared for with the utmost kindness and brotherly sympathy by the Masonic fraternity of Knoxville. All through his illness they paid the bills and made good his loss by rebuilding the house, which now stands where the old one was torn down, a monument of that charity which teaches us to do unto others as we would be done by.

Bro. E.T. Eads was a Worshipful Master of Pacific Lodge, No. 400, at the time of the cyclone. He and his wife were as a father and mother to the stricken family. They left nothing undone that they could do. Their kindness the family will never forget.

CROCKER, FRANCIS ORMAN, after an active business life covering full half a century, Mr. Crocker finally retired to private life in Galesburg in 1883. His parents, John and Rebecca (Tibbetts) Crocker, natives of Maine, where they were married, emigrated to Dearborn County, Indiana in 1818, and Mr. C. lived there until 1836, when the senior Mr. C died at the age of 55 years. His widow survived him nearly a quarter of a century, and died in St. Joseph County, Indiana in 1872.

Our subject was born in Exeter, Maine, Aug. 20, 1815 and was the 3^rd child and first son born in the family that reared 6 sons and 3 daughters. The paternal ancestor was a farmer by occupation, and the 6 sons were brought up to that honorable vocation, and received such learning as was readily attainable at the log-cabin schoolhouse at that day in a State famous for its primitiveness even unto this time. In 1841 the subject of this sketch came to Illinois, and for 12 years farmed in Henderson County. In 1855 he became a resident of Galesburg and entered soon afterward in the grocery business, from which he retired in 1883 with a handsome competency, the result of his individual effort and industry. He has held no offices, figured not in politics, joined no secret order, and proclaimed no sanctification at the shrine of any church.

He was married in Dearborn Co, IN., Sept. 26, 1840, to Miss Mary Brimhall, and their three children are: Oricy Villa, born April 3, 1843, married George Nead, and on January 23, 1880, she died at Galesburg. She left an infant son, Benjamin, who resides with his grandparents. George D., born July 12, 1845, engaged in the grocery business at Galesburg. Emeline, born Aug. 28, 1848, married LeRoy Bates and she died June 12, 1882 at Galesburg, leaving a son—Nealy Bates.

EKINS, GEORGE, one of the most highly esteemed citizens of Knox County, enjoys the distinction of having, by the voice of the people, retained the office of Assessor of the city of Galesburg for 24 consecutive years. He was born in the town of Deal, County of Kent, England, Aug. 6, 1829. His father, George Ekins, was a native of Scotland, and his mother, whose name was Sarah Brown before her marriage, though of Scotch parentage, traced her ancestry to Spain.

The senior Mr. Ekins was a merchant tailor at Deal, where he died in 1851. Our subject, when but 11 years of age, was put at the tailor’s trade under his father, and when 16 years old was foreman of the shop, in which were employed six workmen and four apprentices. It was about that time that the senior Mr. Ekins failed in business, and despite his every effort the debtors’ prison stared him in the face. The principal creditor was known to young George, and the lad went and asked that the business be for a time turned over to him, that he be allowed to manage and direct it, that he might pay his father’s indebtedness and so save him from the fate that so surely awaited him. The creditor happened to be a man not only with some heart, but of judgment, and he saw in the youth before him a determination, an honesty and sincerity of purpose that warranted him in granting the request.

At the age of 21 years, when ready to leave the paternal roof and to go forth into the world and fight the battles that should confront him, young George Ekins, after five years of the most arduous labor, having never slept over four or five hours of any 24 that transpired, turned over to his father the merchant tailoring establishment, free from debt, stocked with the choicest line of goods, and yielding an income amounting to a competency. He was 21 ½ years of age, in the spring of 1848, and possessed of 112 pounds sterling when he came to America. He was accompanied by his wife and four other persons from Deal. In New York City they met Mr. Olmstead Ferris, from Galesburg, and were by him persuaded to come west. Arriving here, Mr. Ekins engaged at once in the tailoring business, which he followed till 1861. In the spring of that year he was elected City Marshal, and held the office for two years, when he was elected to the position he has since continued to hold, and in which he has made a reputation unparalleled in the history of cities.

For some years during the war, our subject was employed as United States Deputy Marshal under A. Martin, of Knoxville. Jan. 1, 1875, to April 1885, he was in the United States Revenue Service as Gauger, of the Fifth District of Illinois. He has always been a Republican in his political convictions, and was a Radical in England, while his father was a Tory. He came to this country fully imbued with the old-line Abolition spirit.

Mr. Ekins was married in his native town, Feb. 28, 1849, to Miss Mary Ann Foster, who has borne to him three children—Adelia, now Mrs. Charles Hasbrook; Frederick, who died at the age of seven years, and Ethelbert, who is a student at Swarthmore College, near Philadelphia. Mr. Ekins is a member of the Knights of Pythias. He has been an extensive real estate dealer, and is now in the insurance business with Ed Clark, the firm being Ekins & Clark, and is in every respect regarded as one of Galesburg’s most enterprising and valued citizens.

Perhaps no man in the county is more widely or favorably known than Mr. Ekins, and as one of its truly representative men, the publishers are pleased to include his portrait in the galaxy of those of leading men of the county given in this Album.

FIFIELD, DR. JOHN L., residing at Victoria village, was born in Salisbury, Merrimac Co, N.H. His parents were Peter and Lydia (Eaton) Fifield, natives of New Hampshire, who came there from Scotland, to which the parents trace back their ancestry. The parental family consisted of six members, all of whom grew up to attain the age of man and womanhood. The record is as follows: John L., Peter, Samuel E., Hiram, Silas C., and Lucy J. The parents died in 1856 and 1880 respectively.

The subject of this sketch remained at home until 17 years of age and then engaged as a teacher and attended school at times until 1830. He commenced to study medicine in 1826, and began the practice of his profession in the same year he left Dartmouth College, at Boscawen, where he remained two years. Then he went to Sutton, in his native State, and there lived seven years. One year later he came to the Prairie State and settled in Rochester, Peoria Co. At this place he continued the practice of medicine for ten years and then removed to Victoria village, and was in active practice until 1870, when he retired from his medical labors. He had often to ride a distance of 40 or 50 miles when he first came to Illinois, before the country was fairly settled, and never refused to go when duty called. In 1850 he made a purchase of 53 acres of desirable land, located on section 17, Victoria Township, subsequently adding to his acreage an additional 160, upon which he has since lived. Dr. Fifield entered the matrimonial state in 1836, at which time he was married to Laura, the accomplished daughter of Joshua Cushman. Her parents are residents of Lebanon, N.H. The family of Dr. Fifield numbers five members: Laura A., now Mrs. G.S. Smith, who is the mother of 4 children—Herbert, Clifton, Franklin, and Nellie. Lydia E. married E.S. Brooks and their union has been blest by the birth of 8 children—Lora, Frank, Sherman, Etta, Lulu, Elliottena, and two others not named. Marie Fifield became the wife of Charles Foster, and to them have been born 5 children—May, Lillie, Carrie, Katie, and an infant unnamed. Mary H. has for a husband J.N. Woolsey, and they are the happy parents of 4 children—Ralph, Ross, Laura, and Robert. John L, Jr. married Miss Emily Hammond and they had two children—Roy and Otis, and he departed this life in 1877. Mrs. Dr. John Fifield died in 1865.

Our subject affiliates with the Democratic party, and has been honored with the office of Justice of the Peace, and is considered one of the prominent and substantial men of his village.

FINCH, OSCAR, follows general farming upon section 20, in Walnut Grove Township. He was born in Ontario County, N.Y., Jan. 21, 1840. His father, Benjamin Finch, was a mechanic and farmer by calling, and a native of the same State. In Ontario, he married Matilda Bennett, of his own State, and came west to Illinois in 1855, bringing with him four of his children, one having preceded him some years before. Twelve children were born to them. Four died in infancy and one at the age of 18. A married daughter came to Illinois in 1854. He followed with his wife and six children, two of whom afterward died.

Mr. Finch remained with his parents until his father’s death, which took place in 1859, when he at once commenced on his own account to face life and win a competency. The farm which he now owns consists of 192 acres, well improved. On the 29^th of September, 1884, his mother died at his home, beloved by her surviving relatives and mourned by many who had known her integrity and steadfastness in duty during life.

Our subject was married in Ashtabula County, Ohio, Oct. 18, 1870 to Miss Sarah J. Allyn. This lady was a native of Hart’s Grove, in that county, and her father still lives in that county, where he follows the occupation of farmer. Mrs. F. was reared at home with her parents up to the date of her marriage. By this union she has become the mother of seven children, one of whom is deceased. There are living Dean L., Ettie R., Clarke E., May T., Lee, and Jay, Twins. The name of the deceased was Winnie D.

Since the arrival of our subject in Walnut Grove Township, he has made this vicinity his home, and will probably close here a very useful life. In politics Mr. Finch is of the Independent school, and by the soundness of his judgment and adherence to those principles which he deems most favorable to the country’s good has won to himself the good will and alliance of his political friends.

HOPKINS, CHARLES A., junior member of the firm of Hopkins Bros., liverymen, of Altona, also figures prominently as grain-buyer for George W. Barnett, of Galesburg, he being engaged in grain buying and shipping. He entered the livery business in the year 1865 and was joined by his brother, John W., senior member of the firm, in the year 1876, which was at that time styled and has since been known as Hopkins Bros. Their business is conducted on first-class principles, and their stables are fully equipped with some of the most creditable turnouts in the village.

Mr. Hopkins possesses undisputed ability in all questions relative to business. He is an able financier, keen, wide-awake and shrewd in all moneyed transactions. He commenced business as Mr. Barnett’s grain-buyer in July 1885, to which branch he has given marked attention ever since, carrying it on, however, in connection with his livery business.

Mr. Hopkins was born in Oswego, Kendall Co, IL., Aug. 19, 1846. His father, Samuel B. Hopkins, by vocation a merchant, was born with a New England record, coming of a long line of Eastern ancestors, whose history includes many interesting reminiscences. He lives at Altona. His wife, whose maiden name was Sarah A. Kingman, was born in Fulton County, N.Y., and departed this life at Exira, Iowa in 1855. She was of American parentage and a lady of many physical and mental endowments and graces.

Charles, our subject, was educated in the Kendall County schools, and passed his boyish years and the earlier part of his young manhood at home. In the year 1869, he went to Chicago and engaged with Parrish & Bryden, grocers, as clerk. He afterward entered the employ of C. Grunewald. A short time later he passed one year in the vicinity of Memphis, Tenn. He held the position of collector for Rice Bros. of Memphis, and in 1870 again returned to Chicago, figuring as a clerk, this time with Hopkins & Rogers, stationers and book-dealers. Soon after the great Chicago fire of 1871, which caused such wide-spread financial havoc and panic, he left the city, and during that autumn went prospecting to Portland, Oregon. Returning from his western trip, he again headed for Chicago, and entered the grocery house of J.J. Dwyer, 427 State Street. Here he served as confidential clerk. In 1873 he left their employ, and with a vague desire of seeing more of the country, went this time to San Francisco, later to Los Angeles County, California. Here he remained somewhat longer than he had originally intended, lengthening his stay to three years. It was here that he exercised his mechanical ability in the running of a stationary engine. In 1876 he entered the business in which he is now engaged, as before stated. Mr. Hopkins occupies a wide sphere of usefulness, and is prominent in public affairs. He has held the office of President of the village Board of Trustees for the past two years. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and has been for 12 years, and is Secretary of that organization. Politically he is a stanch and liberal Republican.

JONES, WALTER N., Lynwood Farm, located on sections 10, 11 and 14, Lynn Township, and comprising 320 acres, is the property of the gentleman whose short biographical sketch we here give. Walter N. Jones was born in Portage County, Ohio, May 7, 1838, of English parentage. His father, Charles H. Jones, was born in 1790, in Herefordshire, England, and was an active business man and extensively engaged in the malting business.

The father of our subject was quite a noted horseman, his forte being in the saddle. He continued to reside in his native land, developing into manhood, and about 1820 was united in marriage with Caroline A. Pickering, the youngest daughter of Sir William Pickering, of Gloucester City. She was a very highly educated lady, and a devout and loving Christian mother and faithful wife until her death, which occurred Feb. 19, 1872, at Rootstown, Ohio. After six children had been born to them, and after sustaining heavy financial losses, the parents determined to emigrate to the United States. They consequently set sail in 1835, and arriving in this country located in Portage County, Ohio, where they followed the occupation of farming. When the father first settled there the country was new, and the laborious toil which is one of the requisites of a successful farmer, especially in a new country, was telling on him, as he had performed no manual labor of any consequence prior to that time. Living there for awhile, the father with his family moved from his original purchase to near Rootstown, Portage County, where he bought a farm and continued actively in his calling until his death in 1856. They were both buried in the old cemetery at Rootstown. After the parents’ arrival in this country four more children were born to them, the subject of this sketch being next to the youngest.

Walter N. Jones resided on the old farm with his parents, until 16 years of age. His life, even prior to that date, was a busy one, the major portion of it being passed on the farm, plowing, clearing out stumps and piling up the stones, as well as chopping and clearing the land. He nevertheless found time to attend the schools during the winter season, being compelled to walk two and a half miles night and morning for that purpose. In 1853 Mr. Jones went to Wooster, Wayne Co, Ohio to learn daguerreotypy, with his brother-in-law, J.W. Wykes, and afterward learned ambrotypy and photography. Buying out Mr. Wykes, our subject continued to follow the business until 1863, meeting with success, and in the meanwhile producing some of the first life-sized photographs made in that section of Ohio, also oil paintings.

Jan. 17, 1860, Mr. Jones was united in marriage with Miss Addie E. James, eldest daughter of J.C. James, of Wooster, Ohio. Her parents were English and among the early settlers of Wooster. In 1866 they removed to Aurora, IL, where her father was engaged in mercantile pursuits and followed the same until within a few years of his death, which occurred June 13, 1879.

Mr. and Mrs. Jones’ first child, Carrie A., was born Nov. 10, 1860, and died May 7, 1861, and is buried in the cemetery at Wooster; Mary Edith was born June 15, 1862; Charles H., Aug. 8, 1864; James W., Oct. 27, 1866; Lottie A., Jan. 29, 1869; George W., Aug. 17, 1873; Emma Hortense, Oct. 16, 1874; and William P., Aug. 19, 1883. Nettie J., Jessie M., and Howard S. died when young, and are buried in the family cemetery on Lynnwood Farm.

In 1863 Mr. Jones sold all of his property in Wooster, Ohio, and made settlement in Lynn Township, on his present fine farm of 240 acres, which he purchased from John Hester. He has since added to his original purchase 80 acres, and the place at this writing comprises 320 acres of good land, under an advanced state of cultivation, and is one of the very best stock and grain farms in Knox County. It is three and a half miles southeast of the pleasant little city of Galva, on sections 10, 11 and 14, in Lynn Township. It has a commanding view of the surrounding country, and standing upon the highest eminence of his land, one can see six towns scattered throughout the county. On this place our subject is living, engaged in the raising of the cereals, together with breeding and raising fine stock. His specialty in stock is Short-horn cattle, fine sheep and Poland-China swine, together with road and trotting horses. In the different branches of his vocation he is meeting with far more than ordinary success.

NELSON, ADOLPH F., Mr. Nelson is a native of Sweden, where he was born in February 1839. He may be numbered among those who have carved out for themselves, by perseverance and steadily adhering to duty, a position in life only attainable by self-made men. He is now engaged in general farming, on section 23, in Walnut Grove Township. His father, Nels P. Johnson, is still residing in his native country, with his wife, Joanna (Stinson) Johnson.

The gentleman whose name heads this notice lived with his parents up to the date of his marriage, June 24, 1864. His wife, Miss Christina C. Freid, was born in Sweden, June 11, 1837, and lived with her parents up to the date of their demise. By her union with Mr. Nelson she has become the happy mother of four children, two of whom are now deceased. Carl G. was born in Sweden, Nov. 1, 1865, and Anna C. June 11, 1868, while her parents were on their way to the United States. In 1868 Mr. Nelson took up his residence in the State of Illinois, first locating in Altona, where he began work as a general laborer on a farm. His first land was purchased in Walnut Grove Township, in the year 1874. This, however, he had rented for some years. He is now the owner of two farms, in all consisting of 280 acres, and this in a highly improved condition. One of these farms lies in Lynn Township, and includes 124 acres. His Walnut Grove farm has upon it some very fine farm buildings.

The family are all members of the Swedish Lutheran Church at Altona, where Mr. and Mrs. Nelson are held in the best of esteem by their community. Politically Mr. Nelson is a sound Republican and keeps himself well informed upon all matters associated with the body politic.

NEWBURG, ERIC, a retired farmer, is the subject of this historical sketch, whose home lies on section 28 of Copley Township. He may be cited as one of the most progressive and prosperous men in Knox County and one of her representative citizens. He is a vigorous factor in public affairs, and is considered one of the wealthiest men of that section.

Mr. Newburg was born in Sweden, Dec. 24, 1814. His parents, Jonas and Anna (Erickerson) Erickerson, were both natives of Sweden, in which country they departed this life. A family of four children grew up about them, of whom our subject was the eldest. He remained at home until he reached the age of 17, and up to that time assisted on the farm, attending school a good share of the time. By his prompt attention to his studies, coupled with native intelligence, he became well informed and fairly educated. When he left home he worked out on a farm until 1846, at which time he purchased a small place and commenced to the furniture business. His beginning was humble, and the outgrowth of his plans has been a success far exceeding his expectations. He came to America in 1850, and entered Henry County, working at Bishop Hill. Here he would not remain any length of time, owing to his indignation at a story imposed on his too credulous wife. He had married, in Sweden, in 1846, a Miss Lena Larson, and by persuasions and threats of the dire consequences that would come upon her if she left the place, they succeeded in detaining her, so far as Mr. Newburg knows, for he left Bishop Hill and came to Copley Township. He labored in Knox County until he obtained funds to purchase a team. He then began to work on a railroad, and burning lime, sold the same and took land to clear of wood and stumps. He labored at this until 1860, and then purchased 160 acres where he now lives. He has built on his homestead a good residence and other necessary buildings, barns, sheds, fences, etc., and broken and improved the land to the highest degree. Here he has carried on mixed farming and paid some attention to the raising of grain and stock.

He received a divorce from the wife, who remained at Bishop Hill, refusing to go with him out of fear of the Prophet, and after this, in 1859, he took to himself a second wife, Martha Lawson by name, a native of Sweden likewise. Five children are the result of this union, four of whom are still living—Matilda, George, Johanna, and Christina. Frank died in 1882, aged 16. Mrs. Newburg died in 1875, and his third wife, whom he married in 1884, was Johanna Johnson, also a Swedish lady. She came to America in 1880, having lost her father in her native country in 1841. Her mother remarried, her second husband being Peter Peterson; they came to America and settled in Copley Township, where they still live. Mrs. Newburg by her former husband, Andrew Johnson, had five children, by name Johanna F., Andrew, Albertina, Hanson, and Ida. His third wife left him in March, 1886 and is now living in Copley Township with her son.

Mr. Newburg is an upright Christian gentleman, and is unsurpassed in solid worth and the attributes that constitute nobility of soul. His wife is also an estimable member of the society to which she belongs, and they are united by profession of faith to the Methodist Episcopal Swedish Church. In politics our subject is independent.

POTTER, COL. LEANDER H., deceased, was born at Midland, N.Y., March 15, 1829, and died at Galesburg July 11, 1879. Thus briefly we chronicle the beginning and ending of a noble life. A life devoted more to the interest of humanity than to self is always noble. Such a life, in the latter part of the 19^th century, has become so rare that he who lives it is isolated from the rest of mankind to an extent that involves sacrifices, often of the most serious and trying character.

If the wealthiest man in the United States were to plant himself squarely upon the Golden Rule, he could not live up to it a decade without impoverishing his family. And yet there are unselfish men; there are men who sacrifice golden opportunities for worldly advancement in devotion to a principle, the basis whereof is a desire to benefit mankind. Once in awhile you find a man who is ambitious and feels that the world is better for his having lived in it.

Col. Potter left little in this world’s goods, but he scattered his bread upon the waters in the faith that it would return at a future day. At his home in Rockford, IL., whither his parents had removed, he fitted himself for college, and in 1854 graduated from Yale. Leaving Yale College, he taught school awhile in Maryland; later on he had charge of the High School in Chicago, and in 1859 he went to Bloomington, IL., as Professor of Languages at the State Normal University. He was at Bloomington when the Rebellion broke out, and on Sept. 4, 1861, he enrolled at Camp Butler, IL, as a private soldier, and upon the organization of the 33^rd IL. Vol. Inf. (“Normal”) he became Captain of Co. A. Sept. 15, 1862, he was promoted to Major of the 33^rd, and May 29, 1863, to Lieutenant-Colonel; the order of promotion showing that it was conferred as a reward of valor. Sept. 12, 1864 he left the army, by resignation, at Cotton Plant, Arkansas. He was several times wounded while in the service, which led to the disability that caused his death.

Soon after leaving the army he was called to Beloit, Wis., as Principal of a high school, and from there he went to Fulton, IL., as President of a State military institution. From Fulton, in 1876, he came to Galesburg, where he held a professorship in Knox College two years, making for himself a name and reputation for sociability, intellectuality and merit as an educator that should cause him to be remembered in the hearts of the people who appreciate true worth under all circumstances.

Prof. Potter was first married at New Haven, Conn., July 26, 1858, to Miss Mary A. Josephine Bartlett, who died at Lowden, Iowa Oct. 15, 1869. She buried one child and left four living; Charles A. a teacher in Colorado; Alice Sherman, a teacher in Galesburg; Theodore Bartlett, a druggist at Chicago; and Harry B. Gray, a student. The deceased, Ella Gertrude, was three years and eight months old when she died, Jan. 25, 1863. May 22, 1871, Col. Potter was again married, his second wife being named Martha Irwin, at Clinton, Iowa. The children born to her and her husband are Leander Irwin and Herman Hubbel. Col. Potter was a member of the G.A.R. and for many years identified with the Congregational Church, as is also his wife.

SCHWARTZ, EDWIN, M.D., one of the principal citizens and more important physicians of Knoxville, Dr. Schwartz is made the subject of this historical notice, the principal points in his life being herein recorded. He is a member of the Military Tract Medical Society, and is Medical Examiner of Knox Lodge, No. 126, A.O.U.W. He was appointed Physician to the Knox County Almshouse in April 1886. He is considered proficient in his knowledge of medicine and receives the confidence and patronage of the people of his town.

Dr. Schwartz first saw the light of day in Knox County, March 31, 1854. He is the son of Daniel and Elizabeth (Williamson) Schwartz (see sketch), and was educated in the district school during his boyish years. Showing actual talent, keen intelligence and a strong inclination to devote himself arduously to his studies, larger advantages were bestowed upon him. He entered Knox College, and in 1878 began the study of medicine with Dr. Madison Reese of Abingdon. Here he continued working untiringly for a period of two years, when he went into Rush Medical College in Chicago, the better to perfect himself in the pursuit of his profession. From this institution he graduated Feb. 22, 1881, and in the ensuing May began his practice, receiving, as previously stated, a substantial patronage and flattering confidence from his old friends and neighbors.

On the 7^th of December, 1882, he took to wife Miss Alice Raridon, who was born in Haw Creek Township, and who was the daughter of John and Mary (Richmond) Raridon. Resulting from this union has been the birth of one child—Louise Fenimore. The Doctor and his wife are considered desirable neighbors, and are heartily esteemed and liked in the community of which they are members. The Doctor takes an interest in politics and is a Democrat in sentiment and belief. He is a useful man in local and public affairs and belongs to Knoxville Lodge, No. 66, A.F.& A.M. He fills a wide field of usefulness, and may be considered one of the most solid and substantial men in that section of country.

SEACORD, WILKINS, Superintendent of the C., B.& Q. R.R. stockyards at Galesburg and Quincy, resident on South Broad Street, Galesburg, IL, traces the blood of his paternal ancestors to the Huguenots of France. His grandfather was a subordinate officer under Marquis de La Fayette, and coming to American with the gallant hero, decided to remain. His son, Wilkins, the immediate ancestor of the subject of this notice, married Hulda J. Morris. Both were natives of New York and of the two sons and three daughters reared by them, Wilkins, Jr. was next to the youngest. Wilkins, Sr. was for many years a member of the General Assembly of New York, in which State he spent his entire life, dying in 1862, at the age of 61 years. His widow survived him some 15 or 16 years, and died at the age of 71 or 72 years.

The subject of this sketch was educated at the common schools; learned something of the blacksmith’s trade, worked at farming awhile; left home when about 22 years of age; drifted about through Ohio, Michigan and Indiana, and finally on October 10 1855, landed at Galesburg. Here he taught school awhile, broke prairie, and in the spring of 1857 engaged in business at Oneida. From the spring of 1862 to 1868, he was engaged in the meat and live stock business, which he abandoned in the latter year and removed to Knoxville, then the county seat of Knox County, and there filled the office of Sheriff during the two years for which he was elected. In 1870 he returned to Galesburg and took charge of the stockyards. In 1876, the Superintendency of the Quincy yards was added to his duties, and the two places have since been under his care. In connection with his stockyard labors, his extensive rendering establishment, his three large farms, his banking interests, etc., it is safe to say that Mr. Seacord has quite enough to keep him busy.

Our subject was born in Orange County, N.Y., Sept. 20, 1833; he was married in Knox County, Oct. 1, 1857, to Miss Keren L. Courtright, who died November 1869, leaving three children—Fred, now a prominent stock-grower and farmer; Louisa (Mrs. John Wilcox); and D.F., an importer and breeder of thoroughbred horses. Mr. Seacord married his present wife, Mrs. Fannie M. Hollowell, nee Turner, at Kansas City, Sept. 20, 1883. He is Republican in politics, and a member of the A.F.& A.M. He is liberal in religion, and at one time took an interest in the Universalist Church.

, M.D., the subject of this historical sketch is station and express agent of the C., B.& Q. R.R. Co., at Oneida, and became connected with the company during the year 1868, operating in different places on the main line and its branches ever since. While occupying a situation on the Keithsburg branch of this line of road, he began the study of medicine, giving to it a small share of his time. After pursuing it during his spare hours, he in the winter of 1881-82, went to Hahnemann Medical College, in Chicago, from which he graduated Feb. 20, 1883. After returning to his home in Oneida, his medical practice, in which he was largely successful, engrossed a fair share of his time, and at this he continued for six months, but, owing to a vacancy in the office of station agent of that place, which was tendered him, he at once assumed its duties, which he has from that time successfully discharged, continuing in the practice of his profession a small share of his time.

Dr. Whitcomb was born in Oxford, Henry Co, IL., Jan 18, 1848. His father, Henry Whitcomb, a farmer, resides in Montgomery County, Kansas, where he owns a valuable and productive farm, and is highly esteemed as an industrious man and a worthy citizen. He claims the Empire State as his place of birth, and though of American parentage, is of English ancestry and blood. His marriage to Miss Fally Woodman, who was born in Hamilton, Madison Co, N.Y., was celebrated in Hamilton. Mrs. Whitcomb lived, previous to her marriage, in New York, and was reared on a farm. Her father was a hero of Revolutionary fame, and claimed Washington as a commander. He died a few years after that never-to-be-forgotten struggle for American liberty that stands out with such distinctness on the records of the nation. He closed his life in Madison County, N.Y., having attained to a hale old age. The family ancestry was similar in origin to that of the Whitcomb line.

Dr. Whitcomb was the youngest of a family of seven children, consisting of five sons and two daughters, of whom three of the former and one of the latter yet survive. His parents, with their little family, came to Illinois, purchasing new land, from which they hoped to create a home for future years, in Oxford, Henry County, after having first lived one year in Knox County, which was at that day an unbroken expanse of prairie land. Locating on this wild tract, in Oxford Township, the father and sons began cultivating and improving the land, which they continued to reside upon till 1866, when they removed to Altona, Knox County. From this time the father took no specially active part in farm work, but operated land through the agency of others, and finally closed his business in this State by removing to Kansas, as before noted, in the year 1871. The death of the mother occurred at Coffeyville, Kansas, Sept. 10, 1885, which was the 56^th anniversary of her marriage to Mr. Whitcomb. She had reached the advanced age of 80 years.

Dr. Whitcomb grew to manhood on his father’s farm, and was educated in the public schools of Oxford and Altona. At the age of 20 years, naturally being bright and intelligent, with promising mind and an intellectual bearing, he entered the C., B. & Q. R.R. office and began the study of telegraphy. Completing his knowledge of this art, he soon after assumed the duties connected with the office and discharged them skillfully and to the entire satisfaction of his employers.

In March, 1865, he enlisted and entered the Civil War as a Union soldier, in the 83^rd Reg. IL. Vol. Inf., Co D, Capt. Snyder, of the Cumberland Division of the Federal Army. He participated in no active engagements, but did garrison duty, at which he continued till he received an honorable discharge at the cessation of hostilities, in September 1865, at Springfield, IL. At Altona, Knox County, March 11, 1871, he was united in marriage to Miss Mary E. Hill, daughter of O.B. Hill, who was born in Ohio, and who, having lost her mother early in childhood, was reared by her father and friends, with the former of whom she made her home until her marriage.

To Dr. Whitcomb and wife have been born three children, as follows: Bertie E., born Jan 25, 1872; Mabel V., May 1, 1873; and Silas C., Nov. 22, 1878. While at Altona, the Doctor was Village Clerk one term; at New Windsor he held the same office two terms, and though far from being an office-seeker, he is eminently well-fitted to fill any official position to which he may be elected. In politics he is an independent Republican, and takes a lively interest in the workings of that party.

S 4 KNOX COUNTY

ADAMS, ANDREW, deceased. In tracing the history of Knox County and looking out the origin of many points in its growth, we find as its support and help the many influential, good and worthy men, who aided its foundation and who helped along its progress. Among these stands prominently the name of our subject, who resided on section 34, Maquon Township, and who was one of the important factors in its prosperity.

He came to Knox County in the spring of 1857, from Rome, N.Y., being accompanied by his wife and five children. His first purchase was made on section 34, Maquon Township, where he resided until his demise, which occurred July 25, 1885.

Our subject was born in Ireland, and crossed the briny waters of the Atlantic when ten years of age. Upon his arrival here he located in New York State, where he remained until his removal to Knox County in 1857. His marriage occurred Dec. 25, 1835, at Rome, N.Y., at which time Sarah Conradt became his wife. She was born April 13, 1809, at Rome, N.Y. The issue of the union of Mr. and Mrs. Adams has been six children, bearing the following names: Charlotte, Mary, William, Benjamin, Andrew, and Martha. William and Benjamin are the only surviving children. The former married Elizabeth Jacobs and they make Maquon Township their home. Benjamin Adams became the husband of Sophia Walters, daughter of L.J. Walters (see his sketch), and they are residents of Peoria. Mr. Andrew Adams adhered to the faith of the Episcopalian Church, of which denomination he was a member.

Since the death of her husband, Mrs. Adams has become the possessor of 160 acres of land, upon which she is passing the remainder of her days in peace and in the full enjoyment of a life well spent.

ALEXANDER, WILLIAM P., prominent among the able men and representative citizens of Knox County may be named the subject of this biographical narrative, a summary of whose life is herein recorded. He is a farmer in Sparta Township and his homestead is situated on section 31 and is known as one of the most desirable in the neighborhood. His handsome residence, which was erected in 1883, is worthy of notice, and his home has been the field of labor to which he has devoted his heartiest energies. Mr. Alexander was born in Greene County, Ohio, Nov. 26, 1834, and his parents are Joseph and Mary (Pollock) Alexander, natives of Kentucky and Nova Scotia. In the year of 1809 they came to Ohio, and there continued until 1845, when the father died. A family of six children grew up about them, by name as follows: Hosea Y., William P., Mary A., Theodore C., John S., and Cynthia J. The mother of this family still survives and lives at Aledo, IL. She came to Illinois with her family in 1850, settling in Warren County, from which she moved subsequently to Mercer County.

Our subject remained under the parental roof until he was 16 years of age, and while in Ohio attended school. The first day of his commencing school he was thrown into the society of Whitelaw Reid, who is now an editor in New York City and famed throughout the entire country.

After William left home he drove a team of six yoke of oxen for the breaking of prairie land. At this hard labor he continued for five years, and in 1861 rented a farm in Mercer County, IL., where he remained until 1868. He then moved to Knox County, purchasing the 80 acres of land on which he now lives. This he has cultivated, beautified and adorned until it is indeed a home in the truest sense, and an abiding place “To the stranger within the gates.”

In the year 1864, he united his heart and fortune with those of Miss Elizabeth Stuart, a native of West Virginia. Mrs. Alexander was blessed with those qualities that go to make up a true woman, and has proved a devoted and valued companion—“A perfect woman, nobly planned.” They have four living children, by name, Evan, Harrie E., Mary Z., and Floyd E.

Mr. Alexander is a Republican in politics, taking great interest in national affairs, and devotes himself more or less to educational interests, holding the position of School Director in his district.

McGIRR, LESLIE, attorney at law, Maquon, is the eldest son of the family of Mahlon and Sarah L. (Barbero) McGirr. (See sketch of Mahlon McGirr and also of Nathan Barbero, deceased). Our subject was born in Maquon. His early life was spent at home after the usual manner of boys of his period. His father followed the peaceful and independent calling of farming, and young McGirr assisted him in the duties thereof until 1873, when he engaged as a pedagogue.

He taught for the first time in Elba Township. He was classed among the most successful teachers and we find him engaged as Principal of the school at St. Augustine, and later on he held the same office in a school at Prairie City, McDonough Co, this State. His teaching covered a period of 63 months, not, however, without interruption.

During this time he also attended school, having in mind the profession which was his choice and which has been his life work. He attended the Abingdon College for three years. While engaged in teaching and attending school, he took up the study of law and studied three years under the supervision of Leander Douglas, of Galesburg, and was duly admitted to the Bar, Nov. 13, 1882.

In May, the following year, he located in Maquon, where he still remains in the practice of his profession. He is a Notary Public and with a fast increasing business, his prospects for studying and gaining a place in his profession is indeed flattering.

Our subject takes an active interest in all the affairs of the day, and being of a genial disposition has a host of friends. We find him prominently connected with the Masonic Fraternity and also that of the I.O.O. F.

BEHRINGER, MRS. ELLEN, the lady of this personal narration is the relict of Michael Behringer, who departed this life October 30, 1870. She is one who has occupied a wife’s sphere of usefulness, and has known the hardships of a pioneer’s life. She came to Galesburg at an early day, and recollects the time, when that now pleasant and populous little city, was sparsely inhabited, and the inconveniences of which were neither few nor far between. From what was almost a wilderness, she has watched the growth and advancement of a section of country that has veritably “Blossomed as a rose.”

Mr. Behringer was born April 4, 1824, and was a native of Germany. His parents were George and Susan Behringer, who were both natives of Germany. Michael emigrated to America, May 31, 1853, and settled in Chicago. From this point he engaged in railroading, which occupation he followed until his death.

His marriage occurred Dec. 8, 1854, with Miss Ellen, daughter of Daniel and Christine (Hutman) Smith. Her parents were natives of Germany, as was also Mrs. Behringer. They died in Germany, the dates of their deaths being 1861 and 1853, respectively. In the year that chronicles her mother’s death, the daughter came to America, and coming west to Illinois, located in Chicago. In that city she was u