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Lindsey, Charles D. Knoxville, where he was educated; clerk in clothing house; born in Knox County February 18, 1864. Mr. Lindsey's father, Charles R. Lindsey, was a native of mason County, Virginia; his mother Mary A. Post was born in St. Louis, Missouri. His paternal grandfather, Rowland Lindsey, was a native of Maine; his paternal grandmother was Phebe Russell, of Chautauqua County, New York. Charles R. Lindsey came to Knoxville in 1838. He was born January 23, 1822, in Virginia, where he was educated, and where he was for many years a farmer. He married his first wife. Caroline Armsbury, in Iroquois County, Illinois, in 1843; she died eight months later. His second marriage was with Mary A. Post, October 05, 1848, in Monmouth, Warren County. They had ten children, six of whom grew to maturity: John T. Martha D., Kellum P., Corrien, Charles D., and Mary E. John T. was arrived to Sarah Smith; they have eight children: C Edwin, Robert B., Marga ret C., Arthur McLellan, Harry, Simeon, Ray, Martha L. Martha D. married Henry Masters. Kellum P. was married to Ada Corbin: they have three children: Ezra, Nellie and Francis. Corrien was married to John B. Evans; they have five children: Jennie M., Jessie L., Julia F., J. Clifford and Tede M. Mary E. Married William Stotts; they have two sons, Paul Sheldon and Phillip Brook. Mr. Lindsey died February 04, 1899; his widow is still living. Her father, Ezra post, was born in Greene County, New York, in 1787. In 1812 he was married to Pattie Pratt; she was born in Rensselearville, Albany County, New York, in 1792. Eight children were to them : Melinda, Rubble A., Dorlinske, John C., Albion, Mary A., Ezra and S. Croghan. The family came to St. Louis, Missouri, in 1825, and moved to this state in 1836. Mr. Post died in 1853 his widow died November 28, 1881. Mr. Post was a soldier in the War of 1812. the ancestry was Scotch and Welsh. Charles D. Lindsey is a member of Horatio Lodge. No. 362, Knights of Pythias, also of Camp No 41, Modern Woodmen of America, and of the Minor of honor, Grim Shaft No. 1; he is one of the Supreme Board of Directors. May 11. 1887, Mr. Lindsey was married to Anna Nelson in Oneida; they had had three children; Hazel B. died in infancy, C. Willard and Nelson. Mr. Lindsey is a member of the Presbyterian Church. In politics he is a democrat.
Dr. Percy's ancestors are of Scotch-Irish descent. His paternal grandfather was Francis Percy, who was born in Belfast, Ireland, and his paternal grandmother was Mabel Wilson, who was born in Gatside, County of Antrim, Ireland. She was the daughter of Stafford Wilson, who was born and lived in the same place. His maternal great-grandparents were born in Ireland, and lived and died in the land of their nativity. His material grandparents were James Fulton and Mary Rogers, who were born in County Dowie, Ireland. Dr. Percy received his early instruction in the common schools of New Jersey. On account of ill health he was sent to Minnesota at the age of fourteen, where he remained for three years. Here he availed himself of school advantages, and by his perseverance, acquired such education as to fit him for higher duties and responsibilities. He then went to New York City, and took a four-years' graded course in medical college there, when the law required only two years. By reason of the pleasant memories of his boyhood experiences and the thought of better opportunities, he returned West after graduating, and located at Mazeppa, Minnesota. Here he practiced general medicine and surgery for two years. Considering his field of operation too narrow and desiring a larger one, he came to Galesburg in February 1888. Here he found himself among strangers, having the acquaintance of but one person, the Rev. J. W. Bradshaw, pastor the "Brick Church". His fame as a physician soon spread, and to-day, he is one of the best known men in Galesburg. Besides his professional duties, he has engaged in other worthy enterprises. He called the first meeting out of which the Galesburg Cottage Hospital Association grew. It was in his Bible class in the First Congregational Church Sabbath School, that the idea of the union of the "Old First" and the First Congregational Church was first considered. It was at his house that the first meeting was called to consider the question . At this time, the plan of union was not completely accepted, on account of a previous call of the "Old First" Church to the Rev. Dr. Sherrill, which had been accepted. Soon after, these churches were united under a new name, the Central Congregational Church. Dr. Percy also interested himself in the establishment of the Congregational Church on Knox Street, which led to the organization of the Congregational Church on East Main Street.Nor are his special labors confined wholly to church work. His surgical operations attest his knowledge and ability. He was the first surgeon in Galesburg to perform successfully an abdominal operation, which was done August 1, 1893. In order to perfect himself in the study and practice of surgery, he went, in 1896, to Europe, remaining there nearly a year. He was under the instruction of specialists, Professors Springel and Kraske, two of the best know surgeons in Germany. He then returned to Galesburg and continued the practice of his profession, which has been uniformly successful. In 1898, he was offered and accepted the chair of the Principles and Practice of Surgery and Surgical Clinics in the College of Physicians and Surgeons, Keokuk, Iowa. From time to time he has made contributions to the medical and surgical literature of the day. Dr. Percy has not been backward in performing his duties as citizen. He is a progressive man, and has shown originality in planning and execution. He is an independent thinker and is bold in the expression of his views. He is intelligent with strongly marked characteristics, and is a better leader than follower. He is amiable in his public and private character, generous in spirit, and gentlemanly in his bearing. He believes in the elevation of humanity; is charitable and kind; and has always shown himself a public-spirited citizen. He is a republican and labors for the interest and welfare of his city and country. Dr. Percy was married at Mazeppa, Minnesota, June 12, 1888, to Josephine L. Robinson. They are the parents of one child, Sarah Katherine.
Mr. Parker's mother was the daughter of Joseph Wood, a revolutionary soldier, who removed from Middleborough, Massachusetts, to Woodstock, Vermont. Joseph was a direct descendant of Henry Wood, who went from England to Holland, and afterwards to Plymouth, Massachusetts. The wife of Joseph Wood was the daughter of Gershom Palmer, a descendant of Walter Palmer, who came from England and settled in Charlestown, Massachusetts, in 1629, and removed to Stonington, Connecticut, in 1652. Mr. Parker spent his boyhood on his father's farm, assisting in cultivating it, and attending the district school in the winters. He enjoyed the advantage of a select school in the fall for two or three years. A library, to which he had access, which had been established at an early period in the village near his father's residence, was of great benefit to him, as he was fond of reading. In the Fall of 1846, he attended Black River Academy in Ludlow, Vermont, with the view of fitting for college. The next Spring, Summer and Fall, he studied Latin and Greek at an academy in Hancock, New Hampshire, devoting a large portion of his time to teaching some of the higher branches of mathematics, to which had given considerable attention, and the study of which he enjoyed. He completed fitting for college at Green Mountain Liberal Institute in South Woodstock, Vermont, and entered Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire, in the Fall of 1849, and was graduated from that institution in 1853. He was a member of the Alpha Delta Phi Society, and at graduation became a member of the Phi Beta Kappa Society. Commencing at the age of seventeen, he taught district schools for ten successive winters. Immediately after graduating from college, he became Principal of Orleans Liberal Institute in Glover, Vermont, and held this position for more than five years. Having been elected Professor of Ancient Languages in Lombard University, in Galesburg, Illinois, in the Fall of 1858, he resigned his position in Glover and at once entered upon the duties of his professorship. He continued to discharge the duties of this professorship till 1868, when he was made Williamson Professor of Greek Language and Literature in the same institution, which position he now holds. He has, however, continued to give forty years of continuous service to Lombard University. He receive the degree of Master of Arts from Dartmouth College in 1856, and that of Doctor of Philosophy from Buchtel College in 1892. For several years he has been a member of the Board of Directors of the Galesburg Public Library. He is a member of the Universalist Church in Galesburg. In 1856, he was married to Sarah A. Labaree, daughter of William and Parthena (Whitmore) Labaree, of Hartland, Vermont. Mrs. Parker died in 1889. A daughter and son survived her, both of whom were graduated from Lombard University. The daughter, Izah T., died of consumption in 1891, at the age of thirty-four, having spent the last four years of her life in southern California, whither she had gone in the hope of regaining her health in the salubrious climate of that favored region. While she was there her father spent his summer vacations with her. The son, William A., for the last seventeen years, has pursued the vocation of a civil engineer. He is now in the employ of the Union Pacific Railroad Company.
Mr. Sanborn remained at Winchester for a few months, then went to Brimfield, Peoria County, and purchased a farm, where he was engaged in agricultural pursuits until his removal to Galesburg. In 1840-41, he was elected Assessor of Peoria County, which position he filled most acceptably. In 1850, he was elected to the Legislature to represent the county of Peoria. On his removal to Galesburg in the Spring of 1851, he engaged in the mercantile business for nearly three years, until he was appointed to the office of Secretary and Treasurer of the Central Military Tract Railroad, which has now become a part of the Burlington system. Under President Pierce he was appointed Postmaster of the City of Galesburg, and in 1857-58-59, he was elected City Assessor. In 1859-60-61, he held the office of General State Agent for the Hartford Fire Insurance Company. When the Internal Revenue Department was established during the Civil War, Mr. Sanborn was appointed Assistant United States Collector under Collector Bryant, of Princeton. But his great work was in organizing the Second National Bank of Galesburg, which stands as one of the strongest and most reliable monetary institutions of the city. Mr. Sanborn was elected its first President, which position he filled with the greatest satisfaction to stockholder and patron until his death. Mr. Sanborn's long period of service was in connection with Lombard University. No man ever served an institution of learning more faithfully or in a kinder spirit. He was elected Trustee in June 1859, and was re-elected every year until his death, April 9, 1883. He was a member of the executive committee for twenty-four years and Treasurer of the University for twenty years. As a guardian of the college, he was a most efficient and indefatigable worker. He gave liberally of his means, and there was no enterprise entered into for its up building and advancement without his benefactions. As a man and citizen, he was the peer of any man. His character was open and unvarnished and his manners were plain and unassuming. His kindness of heart and his charitable feelings threw a glamour around him that was pleasing and attractive to everyone. His genial look was an inspiration, and his friendly address a benediction. He was noted for his sincerity and candor, and was no patron of evil in disguise. He was a thorough student of human nature, and in his business relations knew how to deal with the foibles of men. He was sincere in his convictions, honest in his purposes, and upright in all his dealings. He was honored by all who knew him, and lived a life above reproach. Another has said, "He trod life's journey, and performed its duties well, and upon the verge of three score years and ten, laid down its burdens without the throes and agonies usually accompanying nature's dissolving ties. In his track lie no bruised or crushed hearts, no empty hand of pinched want, no imprecations from betrayed trusts". Mr. Sanborn was a man of liberal principles and broad views, and was not hemmed in by creed or doctrine. He was a member of the Universalist Society, and was a faithful worker therein. He believed in the good and true and in a happy home for all God's children. In political faith, he was once a democrat, but in later years he was a republican. He was not a partisan, but always voted and acted for the best interest of the country. Mr. Sanborn was married on his twenty-seventh birthday to Sophia A. Ramsey an adopted daughter of Alpheus Willard, of Brimfield, Illinois. They had had born to them five children: Ellen, the wife of Dr. George Churchill; Mary, who married J. K. Mitchell; Lelia; William D., who lives in San Francisco, and is General Western Agent of the Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad; and Lake W., who is engaged in insurance at Galesburg, and is Secretary of the Mechanics' Homestead and Loan Association.
Mr. Selby came to Knox County in 1834. Mr. Elisha Barrett, who married Mr. Selby's sister Clista, had selected a mill site on Spoon River. Mr. Selby bought the land on which the mill was built, and, assisted by his brother Nelson, operated it for many years. He was also a farmer, on rather an extensive scale, and owned nine quarter sections of land at the time of his death in 1868. Mr. Selby was married at the home of David Housh in Haw Creek Township, November 12, 1837, to Elizabeth Gullett , daughter of Joshua and Barbara Housh Gullett. Joshua Gullett was born in Delaware and brought up in North Carolina. He was a farmer by occupation, and settled in Washington County, Indiana, where he was married in a block house which served as a fort. His wife, Barbara, was a daughter of Adam Housh of Kentucky. They came to Maquon Township about 1840. Five children born to Mr. and Mrs. Selby are now living: Elisha, Mrs. Amanda Summers, Mrs. Salina Clark, Henry, and Mrs. Ruth Bigelow. Mr. Selby was a dealer in stock, buying and selling cattle, taking at one time a drove of three hundred and sixty to Ohio and swimming them across the Illinois River below Peoria Lake. He was a democrat politically, and was a friendly, broadminded man of many good qualities, both mental and moral, and highly respected by the community in which he lived. Mrs. Elizabeth Selby, who survives him, is a woman of sterling character. In early life in Indiana she learned to weave cloth, coverlets and carpets, and followed the same vocation after coming to Knox County with her Uncle David Housh. After her marriage to Mr. Selby she lived in a double shanty made of slabs, and later lived for two years in a frame house, and then moved into a log cabin, at the old Selby homestead, where she lived eight years. When her husband went to Ohio with a large drove of cattle, Mrs. Selby accompanied him with their two children, and cooked for the cattle drivers. They returned with three loads of cloth which they sold in Knox County, and with the proceeds bought more cattle to forward to the same market. After the death of her husband she managed her estate wisely, having a large stock of horses, sheep and swine on her numerous broad acres.
The ancestral line of the Sisson family, on the mother's side, has been traced back to a very early period. Its length stretches through thirty-seven generations; to Egbert, who became King in the year 802, and was styled "Rex Anglorum" or "King of the English". Henry's great-grandfather was Captain Veach Williams a man of considerable prominence in his day and generation, who was born in Lebanon, Connecticut, April 23, 1727. He was the same family as Ephraim Williams, founder of Williams College; and of William Williams, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, and Speaker of the Colonial Congress. Veach married Lucy, fourth daughter of William and Mary (Avery) Walworth, of Groton, Connecticut. Her family was related to Chancellor Walworth, of Saratoga, New York, and were descended from General John Humphrey, Deputy Governor of Massachusetts Bay Colony, whose wife was descended from King Egbert. The genealogy of this family presents many noted and historical names. In this country, and to some extent, in the Old World, families are so broken up by emigration, marriage, and other conditions, that it seems wonderful that so long and authentic a lineage as this of the Sisson family could be secured. Henry M. Sisson, who stands almost at the end of this ancestral line, had, in his youth, all the educational advantages that the common schools of his native town afforded. "Multum in parvo" was his motto, and from the little offered, he possessed the spirit and ability to extract much. After leaving the common school, he entered the Clinton Grammar School, where he received thorough drill in some of the more advanced branches. After arriving in Galesburg, he continued his studies, in the district school, and afterwards, entered Knox Academy in the Fall of 1843. He recited in the college classes and made considerable proficiency in the study of Latin. But his bent of mind turned to mathematics, which was easy to him, and which he regarded as more closely connected with the business of life. When only sixteen years of age, he made such advancement as to become manager and teacher in a public school. Mr. Sisson lived in Galesburg thirteen years, and in the Summer of 1855, removed to his farm in Henderson Township. He has been engaged in agricultural pursuits and fine stock raising from that time to the present, and has been entirely successful. As a stock raiser and a judge of fine stock, he is regarded as an authority and his reputation in that line extends far and wide. Mr. Sisson has the confidence of his fellow citizens, and has been called to many places of public trust. He was first elected Supervisor from Henderson Township in 1869; again in 1876, 1877, 1878, then in 1885, holding the office thereafter for eleven consecutive years. He has been a School Trustee; member of the County Agricultural Board; President of the Farmers' Institute; Road Commissioner; member of the Farmers' Congress, for the World's Fair; delegate to the Farmers' National Congress, held at Fort Worth in 1898; President of the Old Settlers' Association of Knox County; President of National Poland China Swine Association; and for ten years President of American Poland China Record Company. Mr. Sisson is a man plain in his manners, and possesses a nature free from all disguises. He is a lover of friends and home, strong in his attachments, and unyielding in his purposes and plans. He is intelligent, a great reader, and keeps himself abreast of the times. The history of the country and party politics is familiar to him, and his ability and discretion make him strong in the defense of his principles. He has always been regarded as an upright citizen, and as one worthy of confidence and trust. In his religious creed, Mr. Sisson is broad and liberal. He believes in the religion of deeds, rather than in ritual or ceremony. He attends the Presbyterian Church. In politics, he is an uncompromising republican, and takes a deep interest in every election. Mr. Sisson was married, December 25, 1860 to Eliza Jane Miller daughter of John and Jane A. Crane Miller, who then lived in Chicago. Ten years after the death of her mother, Mr. Miller moved to Galesburg. He was one of the early settlers of Chicago, and was elected one of the first trustees. He died in Galesburg, January 22, 1858. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Sisson are the following: John Miller, died December 1, 1863; Mary E., died April 4, 1863; Della Abba; Dora Eliza; Fanny Owen; Margaret Miller; Helen McCall; and Anna Miller
Judge Smith, son of Eratus and Martha Hulick Smith, was born in Batavia, Claremont County, Ohio, May 9, 1829. His father was a New Englander by birth, a native of Rhode Island; his mother, a native of Ohio. The family removed to Illinois in the Fall of 1840, and settled upon a farm in Knox County. Young Arthur spent his boyhood at the paternal fireside, attending school and performing the customary duties of a farmer's son. On account of the newness of the country and the unsettled condition of the schools, his early educational advantages were not the best; but he had the ability and will to make the best use possible of the means at his command, thus laying a firm foundation for his future success. After arriving in Knox County, he remained a member of his father's family until 1848, when he became a student of the Preparatory Department of Knox College, and afterwards entered college, graduating with high honors in 1853. Immediately thereafter, he commenced the study of law under the instruction and supervision of Abraham Becker, an able practitioner of Otsego County, New York. After remaining with Mr. Becker for a year, he finished his course in the office and under the tuition of Hon. Julius Manning, of Peoria, Illinois, and was admitted to the Bar in 1855. He opened his first office in Galesburg, and continued in active practice until the breaking out of the Civil War. Inspired by a patriotic spirit, he then left home and friends for his country's service. With General A. C. Harding, of Monmouth, Illinois, he organized the Eighty-third Regiment of Illinois Infantry; General Harding being elected Colonel and Judge Smith Lieutenant Colonel. This regiment was mustered in at Monmouth, August 21, 1862, and was immediately ordered to Forts Henry and Donelson, where for a time, it performed guard duty along the Cumberland. February 3, 1863, the Confederate Generals, Forrest, Wheeler, and Wharton with 8,000 men, made an attack upon the Eighty-third Illinois, a company of the Fifth Iowa Cavalry, and a section of the guns of Flood's Battery. Colonel Harding commanded the post, and Colonel Smith the regiment. This engagement is regarded as one of the greatest triumphs of the war. The Confederates were determined to capture Fort Donelson. They surrounded it and demanded its surrender. The little Spartan band, with heroic faith, resolved to stand their ground and die, if needs be, in their country's cause. The Confederates succeeded in capturing one gun of Flood's Battery. Colonel Smith proposed to recapture it, and with the assistance of a few men, made the attempt, but without success. The battle raged until nightfall, and this little band of patriots withstood this vastly superior force, and at last, the rebels were forced to retreat. The gunboats coming up, Colonel Smith was ordered to go aboard and direct the fire. This caused the rebels to abandon their plan of taking Fort Donelson. General Lowe, the commandant at Fort Henry, gave both Colonels Harding and Smith great praise for their bravery and meritorious conduct in this battle. The following incident will show something of the spirit and character of Colonel Smith as a military man: Lieutenant Gamble with six men was dispatched to guard a train going to Nashville. He was attacked by rebel guerillas, and both he and his men were captured. They were stripped of their shirts and arranged in line for the final tragedy, with this tab attached to each one: "Killed by Guerrillas." As the deadly aim was taken, Gamble made a leap for liberty and escaped. The others were butchered on the spot. This act so outraged the feelings of Colonel Smith that he issued orders that these inhuman butchers be captured, dead or alive. Subsequently, they were captured; dead. Lieutenant Gamble reached the camp in safety. Subsequently, for meritorious service, General Harding was made a Brigadier General, and Colonel Smith was assigned to the command of the District of Tennessee with headquarters at Clarksville. This position, he held until the close of the war, when in 1865, he was mustered out and brevetted with the rank and title of Brigadier General. With these well-earned honors, General Smith returned to his home in Galesburg; but soon thereafter left for Clarksville, Tennessee, on a business venture with W. A. Peffer, afterwards United States Senator for Kansas. In this position he did not remain long; for the passions and animosities of the Southern people had been so aroused against the North during the rebellion, that it was extremely dangerous for a Northern man to attempt to live in or pass through many sections of the South. Frequently, under the cover of night, General Smith was shot at, and he also received many threatening letters. By the advice of friends, he left Clarksville, and, in 1866, returned to Galesburg, entering again upon the practice of law, which he continued until 1867, when he was appointed by Governor Oglesby Judge of the Circuit Court to fill the unexpired term of Judge John S. Thompson. In June 1867, he was elected to the same position, and for five successive terms, he received the almost unanimous suffrages of the people for that office. For the long period of twenty-nine years, he sat on the bench as Circuit Judge, performing his duty faithfully, wisely, and justly, with few decisions of his reversed in the higher courts. On account of ill health, he resigned two years before the expiration of his last term of office. In public and private life, Judge Smith has shown himself to be a superior man. Rigid integrity, a sound judgment, prudence, and discretion are some of the elements of his character. As a lawyer, his reputation is established for his fairness towards his opponent and for his candor in speech and argument. As a Judge, his impartiality and the justness of his decisions were the predominating characteristics. As a citizen, his views are broad, liberal, and charitable, looking towards the improvement and welfare of his city, his State, and his country. He is regarded as an upright and trustworthy citizen, and is highly honored for his services in the dark days of the rebellion, and as a Judge of the Circuit Court. Judge Smith's religious creed is not narrow. He accords to every man the right of worship as he pleases. Early, he was a member of the Methodist Church, but in later years, he has been an attendant at the Congregational service, though not a member of that Church. In politics, he is a staunch republican. He is a believer in party principles more than in party machinery. He was a member of the Legislature in 1861, and worked faithfully for the interests of his constituents. He is a member of the G.A.R.; member of the Loyal Legion, and has been a trustee of Knox College for more than twenty years. Judge Smith was married in 1855 to Mary Delano whose death and the death of one child occurred the following year. He was again married, November 12, 1856, to Mary E. Benner, of Galesburg. To them were born five children: Blanche V., who is an accomplished musician, having spent five years in Europe studying music; Arthur A., an attorney-at-law; DeWitt, who is engaged in the jewelry business in Chicago; Loyal L., an attorney in Chicago; Benner X., a leading attorney in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Mr. Smith's family history is one of much interest. His paternal grandparents, Robert and Grace (Braithwaite) Smith, were natives of England, the latter born near Leeds. They were married in the old country, and came to America at the outbreak of the War of the Revolution. Robert Smith at once enlisted in the colonial service, and served the entire seven years in the struggle for independence, most of the time in the rank of Orderly Sergeant; wintered at Valley Forge; took part in the principal battles, and was present at the surrender of Yorktown. He served throughout the war without a wound, and at its close received a grant of land in Cincinnatus, Cortland County, New York; he died in Virgil, New York, at the age of eighty-four; there were eight children, five sons and three daughters. William Smith was born in Schoharie County, New York, but moved to Cortland County with his parents, where he was reared on a farm. There were ten children, seven sons and three daughters, two of whom died in New York. The parents came to Illinois in 1844, and settled on Section 27 in Township of Lynn, Knox County. Although he had not had the advantages of the schools, he was a good business man and prosperous farmer. He was a deacon in the Baptist Church. He died at the age of ninety-two. His wife lived to the great old age of one hundred years and three months, having been born December 15, 1790. Austin Smith married Sarah McNaught in Toulon, Stark County, they have four children, May C., Ruth B., Addie F., and Charles A. Mrs. Smith is a daughter of Thomas and Eliza (Custer) McNaught, early settlers of Illinois, having located at Fraker's Grove about 1840. Mr. McNaught died at Centerville, Lynn Township. Mr. Smith was raised on the farm, and has been engaged in farming all his life, excepting six years when he was in the hardware business in Henry, Marshall County, Illinois. On account of his health he returned to farming and now owns one hundred and twenty acres of land. He was made a Mason in Henry Lodge, No. 19, Henry, Illinois. His father, William Smith, was also a Mason. Mr. Smith is a Prohibitionist and Democrat, and has held local offices.
Heman P. Smith came to Knox county with his father, June 19, 1844, and settled in Lynn Township, on the farm which he now occupies and where his parents died, the father at the age of ninety-two and the mother at the remarkable age of one hundred years and three months. Mr. Smith was educated in the common schools of Knox County, and at Beloit College, Wisconsin, from which he was called to take charge of the home farm. He enlisted in the Civil War in 1862, Company G of the Eighty-ninth Regiment Illinois Volunteers, and served until February 1865, when he was discharged for disability, three months before the disbanding of his entire regiment. He was in all the engagements of the regiment, which had some of the most severe encounters of the war, and took part in fifteen pitched battles. He was in the front rank during the charge up Missionary Ridge, and spent nine months in the hospital. May 25, 1865, Mr. Smith was married to Harriet E. Thompson in Lynn Township. They have seven children, La Mont born December 9, 1866; Letha born April 7, 1870; Fred born July 8, 1873; Abbie and Addie born September 5, 1880, Urban born June 5, 1882; and Bertha born October 31, 1885. In politics, Mr. Smith is an independent democrat and has held most of the township offices, including that of Assessor, and School Director. He is a very successful farmer and owns three hundred and fifty acres of land, including the old Smith homestead.
The parents of Dr. Vivion were natives of Virginia, being raised on farms about forty miles from Alexandria. They moved to Clark County, Kentucky, into a region called the "Canebrakes," at a very early day, when the county was almost an unbroken wilderness. They were firm believers in the Christian religion, and were members of the Baptist Church, until that church in Missouri separated into two divisions. Then they joined the Reformed Christian Church, remaining in that faith until their deaths. During this time, the father was the owner of ten or fifteen slaves, which were held in accordance with the institution and laws of the State in which he lived. He was ever regarded as a good citizen and a thrifty farmer. He was always charitable to the poor. The benevolent traits of his character are illustrated by the following incident: In 1822, the scarcity of corn caused great suffering among the poor. He refused to sell at the high price of a dollar a bushel, saying that what he could spare should be given to the poor. Dr. Vivion's opportunities for education were meager, but he availed himself of all the advantages that the country schools afforded, until he was eighteen years of age. For two or three years, he was a teacher; but his intention of making medicine the professional business of his life never forsook him. During his spare hours, when teaching, he studied those branches which belong to that profession. At the age of twenty-two, at Huntsville, Missouri, he commenced the study of medicine, and for a year and a half, was under the tuition and instruction of two most excellent teachers, Doctors Head and Rutherford. He then went to Winchester, Kentucky, and for the same length of time, studied with Doctors Frasier and Vivion. During all these years, he was engaged in practice as a student, under the direction of his preceptors. Afterwards, he attended courses of lectures in the Medical Department of the Transylvania University at Lexington, Kentucky, and May 1, 1836, settled as a physician in Dover, Missouri, a profession which he has followed assiduously for sixty-three years. Dr. Vivion's first thirty years of practice was in accordance with the rules of the allopathic system, but in 1866, he changed to the homeopathic system, being convinced of its superiority. To practice the latter system, he received a diploma from the Hahnemann Medical College and Hospital. In 1851, Dr. Vivion moved from Dover to Waverly, Missouri, and in 1853, he purchased a farm two miles from Dover, on which he lived seven years, practicing his profession in the meantime. In 1860, he disposed of his farm and moved to College Mound near Macon City, Missouri. In 1865, he moved to Ursa, Illinois, a few miles north of Quincy, and in 1868, he came to Galesburg, where he has been an honored resident ever since. In 1840, Dr. Vivion was elected to the Legislature on the Whig ticket, being the first successful candidate of that ticket in Lafayette County, Missouri. He did not seek the office, but the office sought him. He never has been an aspirant for political honors. After becoming a resident of Galesburg, he served as Health Commissioner for several years; was City Health Officer for two years; held the office of City Physician about five years. At a meeting of the State Medical Society, he was elected President pro tem., and by the same body, he was elected permanent President, but resigned in favor of a younger man. In politics, Dr. Vivion was a Whig until the Whig party was disorganized in 1856. He then became affiliated with the democratic party, although not strongly a party man. In religion, he is a member of the Christian Church, having connected himself with that church at Dover, Missouri. In the same year, 1843, he was elected Elder and ordained, and has filled that office ever since. After coming to Galesburg, he made his church home temporarily with the Baptists, until 1871. a small number of similar faith held meetings in a hall over the Second National Bank. During the Winter of the same year, services were continued in the Doctor's office in the Matthews Block. The sacrament was administered every Lord's day, and the weekly meetings were conducted with great regularity. In the following Spring, the hall over L. B. Miller's music store on the Square was occupied, and there services were continued until a church organization was effected in February, 1872, with twenty members. Dr. Vivion filled, without compensation, the place of minister in this church nearly half the time from its organization until 1890. Since then a regular pastor has been employed. The number of church members in 1898 was two hundred and twenty. Dr. Vivion is possessed of a deeply religious nature. His correct tastes and habits are largely due to the religious training of his parents, who required him to take the New Testament to school and read it every day. In all his long life, he never saw a moment when he doubted the truth of the Christian religion. Even when a boy of sixteen he saved a sufficient amount to purchase Buck's Theological Dictionary, the price paid being two dollars. He made good use of his opportunities, and his wisely chosen profession afforded an ample field for exercise of his powers. Although having passed the period of life set by the psalmist, he still enjoys good health and is practicing his profession, and fills his place at church regularly. He was united in marriage to Maria Jane Atkinson, an only child, September 26, 1836. Her family was of the Presbyterian faith, but she joined the Christian Church at the same time her husband joined. She was a kind and faithful wife, ever ministering to the wants of her family. She died August 24, 1887. Eight children were born to them, four of whom died in infancy. The names of the others are Sarah Ann Mildred, born June 15, 1839, married to T. L. Gorham; Robert, born November 10, 1848, died February 5, 1866; John G., born July 18, 1853; Edward L., born November 22, 1857. A second marriage to Lucy Neely was contracted May 16, 1888.
Wellington's mother was Elise Upson, who was born in Tallmadge, Summit County, Ohio, January 21, 1813, and died in Oakland, California, in 1893. The "Washburn family," without doubt, are of English descent, as the name indicates; although tradition says that they came into England with William the Conqueror, and one of them was knighted by him, on the battlefield, for meritorious service. In Worchester and Gloucester counties, England, there are two villages know by the name of Great Washburn and Little Washburn, where the family have lived for many generations. The "Washburn family" in America not only in numerous, but contains many distinguished men. John Washburn came to Duxbury, Massachusetts, about 1628-32. His wife Margerie came with her two sons, John and Phillip, in 1635. He is said to have been the first secretary of the Plymouth Colony Company in London in 1628-9. John, who belonged to the second generation in the line, married Elizabeth Mitchell, whose mother was Jane Cooke, daughter of Francis Cooke, who came over in the Mayflower in 1620. He was one of the signers of the "Compact" on the deck of the vessel before landing. The third generation contains the names of Joseph and Hannah, who married a Mr. Latham. In the fourth generation, we again find the name John with Mehitable or Lydia. In the fifth, is Jabez, who was born in 1708, and Judith, who married a Mr. Faunce. In the sixth generation is to be found Jabez and Mary, who married a Mr. Sherman. The seventh generation contains the names of Abiel and Rebecca (Adams) Washburn, the grandparents of Wellington W. Thus it appears that Wellington W. belongs to the eighth generation from John Washburn, who settled in Duxbury about 1631-2. Wellington W. Washburn belongs to the class of self-mad men. He had the care of loving parents and attended the public schools of his native town. For a time, he pursued a course in the High School under the Principal ship of General Leggett, noted teacher. On May 3, 1852, when only sixteen years of age, he left the High School and entered a jeweler's store to learn the watchmakers' and jewelers' trade. He was under the instruction of H. S. Abbey, one of the leading jewelers of Akron. Here he remained until 1859, when he came to Galesburg, Illinois. His capital was his ability and the few tools that he brought with him. His first co-partnership was with J. K. Armstrong, from 1867 to 1872, under the firm name of Washburn and Armstrong. He continued in the jewelry business until April, 1875, when he sold out to E. W. Trask, of Aurora, Illinois, who continued it under the firm name of Trask and Gentry. In 1877, he was elected cashier in the Second National Bank of Galesburg, remaining there until after the death of the President, David Sanborn, in 1883. He then organized the Galesburg National Bank with a capital of one hundred thousand dollars, which opened for business May 3, 1884. He was elected its first President and held that position until May, 1889, when business called him to California. He resided at Oakland until May, 1895, when he returned to Galesburg, where his home has been ever since. The name Washburn is imperishably written in the archives and history of the nation. Two of them, Emory and William B., have been Governors of the Old Bay State. Israel was Governor of Maine. Peter T., of Woodstock, Vermont, was once Governor of that State. Elihu B., was once a Congressman from Illinois, Minister to France, and Secretary of State under President Grant. Cadwell C. was Major General in the Civil War and afterwards Governor of Wisconsin. John D. was once Speaker of the Massachusetts House of Representatives and Minister to Switzerland. William D. was United States Senator from Minnesota. Charles A. was Minister to Paraguay. Washburn Maynard, commander of the gunboat Nashville, in the son of Hon. Horace Maynard, of Tennessee, and Laura Washburn, of Randolph, Vermont. Truly, such a list of patriots and statesmen have honored the name of Washburn. Wellington W. Washburn was shown himself to be an enterprising citizen. He has aided greatly in the improvement of Galesburg. In 1869, he built the "Washburn Block," which, at that time, was one of the best in the city. He was erected several dwelling-houses, which stand as an evidence of his enterprise. He has labored for the up building of the city, and has aided by his means in all undertakings which his judgment approved. As a man, he is social in his intercourse, kind in disposition, charitable in his relations towards his fellows, and popular in his every-day life. He has ever shown himself to be an honest, intelligent, and trustworthy citizen. His religious views are broad and without cant. He is a member of no church, but attends the Universalist. In politics, he is a republican if the party candidates for office are good men. Mr. Washburn was married, February 9, 1876, to Margaret Lockwood, who died in June, 1883. She was born in New Albany, Indiana. Her father's family were long residents there, and were held in high esteem. By this union, one son was born to them: Fred Lockwood, born May 10, 1878. His second marriage was December 28, 1893, to Etta P. Burrows, of Chicago
Judge Thompson received the customary instruction of the common school of his native town. Afterwards, he attended the grammar school at St. Mary's, working on the farm during summer. He then entered Upper Canada College at Toronto, and finally Toronto University, where he took a fully literary course. He graduated in 1874 with the degree of Bachelor of Arts, winning a scholarship every year and a gold medal at graduation. By the labors of his own hands, he earned the means, principally, to meet the expenses of his college course. He read law while a student at college, and afterwards, with William Davis in Galesburg He was admitted to the Bar in Iowa at Fort Madison in 1875 and practiced at Sibley, Iowa, for two years. In June, 1877, he came to Galesburg, and practiced uninterruptedly in the courts of Knox County and the State, until he was elected to the office of Circuit Judge. His boyhood was passed on his father's Canada farm, which was stony and once heavily wooded. Early, he had a great fondness for books and a desire for learning. While attending the district school in winter, he borrowed books to begin the study of the classics; and while working on the farm during the day, he spend the early morning and the evening with a portion of the night in reading and study. A chancery suit, involving his father's farm, was the immediate cause of Judge Thompson's removal from Iowa to Illinois. His first co-partnership was with Mr. Davis under the firm name of Davis and Thompson. This co-partnership was dissolved, and from 1883 to 1893, he practiced alone. Then the firm of Thompson and Shumway was established, and in 1896, that of Thompson, Shumway and Wasson. Judge Thompson remained a member of this firm until June, 1897, when he was elected Judge in the Ninth Judicial Circuit of Illinois, comprising the counties of Knox, Warren, Henderson, Hancock, McDonough, and Fulton. Judge Thompson has never been an office-seeker. He has held but few offices. He was elected Alderman of the First Ward of the City of Galesburg in 1880, and held the office until 1884. He is a member of several societies and has filled important positions therein. He is a member of the Masonic Order, Odd fellows, and Knights of Pythias. He joined the Alpha Lodge of Masons in 1877, and was an officer continuously therein from 1878 to 1898. He was Worshipful Master four terms, and Eminent Commander of Galesburg Commandery the same length of time. As a lawyer, Judge Thompson has always borne a very high reputation. His fame expanded and spread by reason of his intelligent management of cases at court, and his fair treatment of witnesses on the stand. He has always been sought after for his reliability and fair-mindedness and for his superior knowledge of common and statute law. As a Judge, he is known for his quickness of decision and impartiality. He is just in his citations of points of law, and has earned the respect and esteem of both counselor and jury. As a citizen, he is kind and forbearing, and is worthy of public confidence. He is charitable in speech and act, is helpful in all needed reforms and improvements, and never withholds a helping hand from the needy and suffering. Judge Thompson is broad and liberal in his religious views. He belongs to no church, but is a regular attendant at the Baptist Church, of which his wife is a member. He is a strong republican, and has been identified with that party from the time he was old enough to cast his first vote. He was married September 12, 1884, to Hettie Linsley, who was born at Galva, Henry County, Illinois. She is a graduate of Knox College, and was Librarian in the Galesburg Public Library five years prior to her marriage. Her father, James H. Linsley, up to 1899, was Road Master of the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad. With this road, he was connected for forty-six years. Judge and Mrs. Thompson are the parents of three children: Alma C., Ruth L., and Wallace L.
Eugene's early education advantages were very limited. However, he made the best use possible of his opportunities, availing himself of the instruction afforded in our public schools. This preparatory training was supplemented by attendance at St. Patrick's Academy, at LaSalle, and for a short time, as an "irregular" at Knox College. His first occupation after leaving school was teaching. He taught in the district schools of Knox County for eight consecutive winters, commencing in 1870-71, and three summer schools during this period. Being anxious to earn an honest dollar whenever possible, he worked on the farm during the interim between terms of school. Many a farmer will remember him as a faithful hand in the harvest field. As a teacher, he held advanced and independent ideas. He believed that the teacher should conduct his school without the use of books, if required; that he should be the book and the active spirit of his school. With such views in imparting instruction, his teaching was always practical and successful. Mr. Welch's early life was spent in LaSalle. In the latter part of 1869, he moved with his parents to Galesburg, where he has lived ever since. He was elected City Attorney for two years, 1889-91, and re-elected for 1891-93, both times on the liberal ticket. He was elected State's Attorney for four years, 1892-96, and re-elected for four years, 1896-1900, both times on the republican ticket. The societies with which he is connected are the following: Vesper Lodge, No. 584, A. F. and A. M., Master of the same for two years; Galesburg Lodge No. 142, I. O. of O. F., now Noble Grand, heretofore Vice Grand; Galesburg Camp, No. 667, Modern Woodmen of America, being Venerable Consul: was a member of Edvall Camp, No. 50, Sons of Veterans; member of Galesburg Club; member of the Illinois State Bar Association, and Association of State's Attorneys of Illinois. As an attorney, Mr. Welch has been eminently successful. He stands in the front rank of his profession at Knox County bar. As State's Attorney, his work was been prosecuted conscientiously and thoroughly. The indictment is the lawyer's work, and its preparation is a safe indicator of his knowledge and ability. If there is the least flaw, the indictment is quashed. For the past six years, as State's Attorney, he has prepared 450 indictments, and the records show only two quashed. It is doubtful whether a cleaner record than this can be shown by any other State's Attorney. For the last three years, the jury, in every case, have returned the verdict, "We, the jury, find the defendant guilty." When he was City Attorney, important improvements to the amount of $344,000 were made. Street pavements were put in and waterworks constructed. Ordinances were to be framed, contracts draw, and confirmations in courts attended to. All this work was so well done that the city was never required to pay one dollar, owing to the blunders of the City Attorney. These things speak volumes for his efficiency. Mr. Welch has always had for his motto: "Never be idle." A kindred sentiment he has also cherished: "He who would enter through the door of success, much observe the sign, 'Push.' " He commenced the study of law in June, 1875, and before the entire Supreme Court, in June, 1877, was admitted to the bar. He read for a short time, with the firm of Lanpher and Brown, composed of the late Judge George C. Lanpher and A. M. Brown. His reading mostly was with Douglas and Harvet, the partners being Judge Leander Douglas and Hon. Curtis K. Harvey. Mr. Welch is a public spirited man, and is always interested in public improvements. His charity is of the kind to help those that help themselves, He is a member of the Christian Church. His political sentiments are intensely republican. Mr. Welch was married in Galesburg, June 24, 1879, to Ida Spencer
[the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index lists a Eugene W. Welch
marrying a Ida I. Spooner in Knox County on June 24, 1879], a lady
of intelligence and refinement. Of this union, four children were born:
Nellie M., Frank A., Bessie S., and Sidney Post.
The name Tilden is common in the Country of Kent, England. At an early date, one of the "dens" or "dales" bore this name before the period of the adoption of surnames. The name is found in the will of John Tilden, of Benenden, England, recorded September 12, 1463. He was born about the 1400. Another of the name, Joseph Tilden, was one of the merchant adventurers of London, who fitted out the Mayflower, and furnished quite a portion of the means, which enabled her passengers to found and maintain the infant settlement in America. Nathaniel Tilden, with his wife Lydia and seven children, came over in the ship Hercules in March, 1634. On the list of passengers, his name stands first, and the first conveyance of land, recorded at Scituate in the Massachusetts Bay Colony, was made to him in 1628. Another of the Tilden family, Stephen, married Hannah Little, of Plymouth, whose ancestors came over in the Mayflower in 1620. One of the same name, Stephen Tilden, living in Lebanon, Connecticut, in 1724, moved to Hartford, Vermont, 1767, settling near White River Junction. He purchased a proprietor's right of four hundred acres of land for two dollars and fifty cents. Afterwards, he bought for his children several other proprietor's rights. Josiah Tilden received the customary education given in the district schools of that early day, supplemented by a course in the seminary at Newbury, Vermont. He seemed to have the ability to extract much from little, for he is a well informed and a well-educated man. After leaving school, his first occupation was clerking in the store of Freeman and Henry Keyes in Newbury, where he remained six and a half years. His work was very laborious, and his wages were small. With the greatest economy and self-denial, he scarcely saved enough to defray his expensed to Galesburg, Illinois, (a trip he had planned with a view of bettering his fortune. He came across Lake Michigan to Chicago; thence by "limited" canal to LaSalle; thence down the Illinois River to Peoria; and lastly by stage-coach to Galesburg, arriving, October, 1851, at the celebrated "Palmer House" which stood at the corner of Main and Cherry streets. After spending a little time visiting his sister, who was then Principal of the Ladies' Department of Knox College, he began to look around for employment. So poor was his success that he was on the point of returning East, when a fortunate opportunity was offered him. The Central Military Tract Railroad Company employed him to open its accounts. Before this, no books had been opened, and the papers were kept in a box in a loose condition. Thus it may be said that Colonel Tilden was the first person to open the books of what has now become the great Burlington system. On January 6, 1852, Colonel Tilden began clerking in the store of Silas and Warren Willard, situated on the southeast corner of the "Square" and Main street. He remained with them until March, 1853, when, with David Sanborn as partner, he bought the general stock of goods of William Butcher. This store was situated two or three doors east of the Willard store, and was known from the sign over the door as "Uncle Sam." This co-partnership continued for two and a half years, when Colonel Tilden sold out to Mr. Sanborn, and built a modern building, twenty-five by sixty feet, the first store room then in Galesburg. It was the first building with large glass in the windows, four to the window, and was rendered attractive thereby. He continued in the mercantile business until the Civil War broke out, when he sold out to Warren C. Willard. Colonel Tilden's military record is a worthy one, and he is deserving great credit for the part he took in the War of the Rebellion. He was appointed Paymaster in the United States Army, May 27, 1863. His commission bears the signatures of Abraham Lincoln, and Edwin M. Stanton as Secretary of War. Hon. Owen Lovejoy, then member of Congress from this district, was the bearer of the document to him. During his service in the army, he paid to soldiers nearly ten million dollars. Colonel Tilden was one of eight paymasters, going on the steamer Ruth, August 4, 1863, to Vicksburg, Mississippi, with two million six hundred thousand dollars, when she was set on fire by a rebel and burned with all the money. His clerk, Simeon Martin, son of Deacon Martin, of this city, was drowned with about thirty others, among who were two paymasters' clerks, who could not swim. Colonel Tilden swam ashore, saving nothing but the clothes he had on. It was midnight, and the struggle was with fire and water, and impenetrable darkness. The rebels had offered a prize for the destruction of United States boats. To counteract this, summary punishment was meted out to all when captured, which made the attempt. Without delay, a court-martial was held and the guilty one was loaded down with heavy pieces of iron, taken to the rear of the boat and commanded to swim ashore. Colonel Tilden, during the war, had several very fortunate escapes from capture. At one time, at Springfield, Illinois, he had in the safe two hundred thousand dollars for payment to soldiers on the following day. The next morning, he was to go to the camp to disburse this money. During the night his office was broken into, and his clerks, probably chloroformed, were robbed of about three hundred dollars of their own money. Colonel Tilden says: "The largest check I ever drew was two hundred eighty thousand dollars, and many others for large amounts. I remember well, coming over from Indianapolis to Springfield one night, bringing four hundred thousand dollars in two carpet satchels, tied up with a rope. I dressed in old clothes, my clerk carrying one satchel; and I, the other, to pay soldiers mustered out, and waiting for their pay. I felt a relief when I had turned it in at the First National Bank, Springfield, to Cashier Tracy, now President of the bank. For three years of faithful service, and it might be said, for honesty and ability, he received a commission as Lieutenant Colonel, dated April 15, 1866, and signed by Andrew Johnson, President, and Edwin M. Stanton, Secretary of War. His certificate of non-indebtedness and adjustment of accounts from the Second Comptroller of the Currency and E. B. French, Auditor, is dated, August 27, 1870. Colonel Tilden, by his manliness and upright character, has won the respect and confidence of his fellow citizens generally. In some good degree, they have tried to repay him for his services in the field. May 6, 1867, he was appointed Deputy United States Collector by William Kellogg, Collector, for the counties of Knox, Henry, and Bureau. At the end of one year, he resigned, went to Missouri, and bought 1,525 acres of land near Carthage. In the Spring of 1870, he moved there with his family and lived for twelve years. Impressed with the duty and responsibility of educating his children, he returned to Galesburg in 1882. Since his return, he was elected Justice of the Peace in April, 1884, and has been re-elected three terms, serving in that office thirteen years. He was also Secretary and Treasurer of the Galesburg Gas Company, owning stock in the same, which he sold when he went to Missouri. Colonel Tilden is decisive and unswerving in his political views. When in Vermont in 1851, he voted the Whig ticket. He has been identified with the republican party since its organization. He says: "I have voted that ticket first, last, and all the time." His travels in this country have been quite extensive; having visited more than twenty-five States. Colonel Tilden is a man of great moral worth. To his convictions and to his friends, he is true as steel. Double-mindedness is no element of his character, but firmness of purpose and stableness of action are his ruling traits. He is open hearted and franks, and despises all innuendoes and deceit. He is thoroughly patriotic, and benevolent and charitable in his dealings with his fellow-men. In his church relations, he is a Congregationalist, and was one of the fifty-one persons that organized the "Brick Church" of Galesburg. He went to Boston with Warren W. Willard to invite Dr. Edward Beecher to become their pastor. In church, city, and county, h has acted a conspicuous part, and the reward that comes from duty is his. Colon Tilden was united in marriage at Galesburg, Illinois, October 26, 1857, to Jeannette Lucretia Abbott, born in Vernon, Connecticut, June 3, 1836. The marriage ceremony was performed by the Rev. Edward Beecher, D. D. She was the daughter of Bickford and Amelia Abbott. They have had seven children, four sons and three daughters; Emma, Edward, Alice, Jeannette, Bertrand Josiah, Joseph Abbott, Earnest Lyman, and Amelia Clementine. Emma, Edward, and Joseph Abbott are deceased.
His father was both a merchant and a farmer, being engaged in the mercantile business in the East, and giving his attention to farming after settling in Illinois. The Wertman family came to this State in the Spring of 1864, when Lloyd was 19 years of age. They moved on to a farm seven miles east of Knoxville, known then as the "Bob White" farm, when was owned by George Stevens. Here the family lived for three years, and then purchased a farm in Elba Township, where they lived until the Spring of 1879. In the meantime, young Wertman engaged in farming for himself. In 1870, he rented lands in Elba Township of George A. Charles, and these he cultivated for three years. Then he purchased his home place, where he devoted himself to farming until the Spring of 1879. He then moved from Elba to Yates City, and was employed as a bookkeeper and salesman for one year in a co-operative store. He then formed a partnership with J. H. Nicholson and W. P. Parker in the purchase of the Farmers' Bank, Yates City, which was owned by J. M. Taylor. He was elected Cashier - a position he occupied until January, 1889. He was then elected Cashier of the Farmers' and Mechanics' Bank, Galesburg, Illinois, and served for six years. In January, 1895, he was elected Vice President of the First National Bank, serving for two years. Then in January, 1897, he was elected President of the same, which position he now holds. Mr. Wertman has held several other offices of honor and trust. He was Township Clerk of Elba for eight years, Collector for two years, School Treasurer for four years, Supervisor of Salem Township for two years, Vice President and Director in the Galesburg Printing Company, Director in the Board of Education, and Director in the Mutual Loan and Building Association. The life and success of Mr.Wertman should encourage every young man who may read this sketch. By probity and strict integrity, he has risen to places of honor and trust. His early educational advantages were greatly circumscribed, but he availed himself of all the opportunities the common school afforded. With this preparatory education, he completed his studies at the Academy and Missionary Institute, Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania. Thus equipped he has gone on from on position to another, and won for himself an enviable reputation. In political faith, Mr. Wertman is a staunch republican. In religious affiliations, he is an attendant at the Presbyterian Church. He is a believer in moral and benevolent institutions of every name. Mr. Wertman was married January 11, 1870, to Miss Isabella J. Oberholtzer whose parents settled in Knox County, in 1840. Of this union, four daughters and one son were born: Mary Estella, Martha Leora, Maud S., and Norma Blanch, now living.
Mr. Wyman came to Persifer Township, Knox County, Illinois, when twenty-four years of age. He was a single man, and began life on a small scale when he arrived in Illinois, he had as capital $210 in cash, with which he bought stock and grazed and fed them. Prospering in this undertaking, she soon after purchased eighty acres of land. He was in debt, but was possessed with energy which insures success. He was soon able to discharge all his indebtedness, and to engage in larger business enterprises. He bought more stock, and purchased more land so that at one time he owned not less than twelve hundred acres. If Mr. Wyman now possesses less land than formerly, it is because he has adopted the plan of giving a farm to each of his sons. Mr. Wyman is a wealthy man, a generous and kind-hearted father. These qualities of mind and of heart are as clearly exhibited in the wider relations of life as in those of the family. He is a good counselor, a trusted friend, a kind neighbor, and is always ready to extend a helping hand to the unfortunate and the distressed. Honest in his dealings with his fellowmen. he has made it clear to those who know him that wealth may be accumulated with taint of dishonor; that a strong purpose aided by integrity, economy, and perseverance, is still the most potent factor in securing the double harvest of life -- material prosperity and a noble manhood. Mr. Wyman was married to Hannah, daughter of Daniel Taylor, December 22, 1854. She died April 08, 1864; there were three children; Henry, who married Lovina Montgomery; Charles, who married Effie Wilson; and Eunice Ann, the wife of Edward Russell. On October 17, he married, at Knoxville, Illinois, Katharine, daughter, of Frederick and Eliza Hammond Mundwiler. Three children were born to them: Eliza, wife of Guy Manley; Arthur, who married Fannie Farquer; and Ida J., wife of Harvey England. Mrs. Wyman's father was born in York Cou7nty, Pennsylvania; her mother was a native of Franklin County, in the same state; they came to Knox County, Illinois when Mrs. Wyman was twenty years of age. Mr. Wyman is a republican. He has not sought office; but for many years served his township in the capacity of Road Commissioner, and his influence in town affairs has been extensive and valuable. John R. Young; Farmer; Persifer Township; son of Robert Young; born May 23, 1852, on the Young homestead, Section 30, Persifer Township; educated at the Knoxville High School and Hedding College. He married Samantha Lotts, in Haw Creek Township, December 08, 1875; there were four children: Earl L., John R. Trella W. and Merrill. May 10, 1889, his first wife died. November 03, 1891, he married Mary A., daughter of George England; two children were born to them: Leon D. and an infant daughter. Mr. Young's college education did not unfit him for farm work, and knowing that he could make a success of farming, he chose that as his life work. He has made a success, beginning in a small way, and now owns four hundred and sixteen acres in Persifer Township, three hundred and seventy-five acres being in one tract and well improved. He is a progressive farmer. He has educated his children; his two oldest sons, Earl L. and John R. graduated a the Knoxville High School, the former teaching his first school in the winter of 1898 and 1899. Mr. Young is a republican in Politics, and has been supervisor ten years. He filled the office of Road Commissioner from 1885 to 1888, and in 1888, was elected Assessor. On the Board of Supervisors, he has been chairman of the Road and Bridge Committee since 1894, and has rendered valuable services to the county. Mr. Young is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America and of the A. F. and A. M. Gilson Lodge, No. 3161.
Wyrum Wiswell; President of Galesburg Brick and Terra Cotta Company; Galesburg; born February 01, 1825, in Vermont; educated in Vermont and Illinois. His parents were John and Ada Wilard Wiswell, of Vermont, the latter of Wardsborough; his paternal grandparents, Samuel and Saloma Oaks Wiswell, and his maternal grandparents, Oliver and Asneth Wilard, were of Massachusetts. Mr. Wiswell was married November 18, 1851, at Berwick, Warren County, Illinois, to Martha Sheldon. She was born February 16, 1833, in Oneida County, New York. Their children are; Sarah Sophronia, Laurette Wilard, and Augusta Gates. Mr. Wiswell is a member of the Baptist Church. He is a republican.
Reuben William Hunt, School Director, Alderman, member of Library Board, member of Knox County Agricultural Board, City Treasurer, Supervisor, member of Executive Committee of Knox County, President of Republican League, was born in Brooklyn, New York, June 14, 1827. He was the son of Jeremiah North and Elizabeth (Manley) Hunt. His father, the fourth child in a family of thirteen, was born in Trenton, New Jersey, in 1803. Considering the condition of the schools in that early day, he obtained a good practical education, and was well fitted to enter upon the active duties of life. At different times, he became a grocer, school teacher, farmer, and nurseryman. He engaged in business in Brooklyn and other places in the vicinity of New York City, and about this time, married Elizabeth Manley, daughter of Robert Manley, a minister of the Dutch Reformed Church. In 1833, unattended, he came West and opened a store in Chicago. The next year he settled in Naperville, Illinois, and sent for his family. Young Reuben Hunt did not have the advantages of a college education, but he drank deeply at the Pierian fountains of knowledge. He availed himself of the instruction of public and private schools, and became, through untiring energy and perseverance, a well educated man. Both he and his brother were well versed in the Latin grammar before they studied the English. Notwithstanding his fondness for Latin, he was a thoughtful reader and was well posted on the current events of the day. In youth, he was sedate and studious, shy and retiring. He was fond of music and natural scenery -- a lover of flowers and the song of birds. Replying to one who spoke of his strength and activity, he said, "When I was young in years, I was old, and now, when I am old in years, I am young." Mr. Hunt came to Illinois when only seven years of age. In the Spring of 1857, he moved from Naperville to Galesburg and established a nursery and greenhouse. In May of the following year, a severe wind and hail storm destroyed his entire nursery stock and swept away his greenhouse, leaving him much in debt. Not despairing or discouraged, both he and his faithful wife took hold with renewed energy, and finally their labors were crowned with success. Mr. Hunt was a member of the Masonic fraternity, Vesper Lodge, A. F. & A. M., which he joined about 1876. He was a member of the Galesburg Horticultural Society and the State Society, adding much to their life and interest by his discussions and the papers that he presented and read on his practical experiments in horticulture. Mr. Hunt was naturally a religious man. He united with the Baptist Church at Naperville in 1843. On his removal to Galesburg, both he and his wife connected themselves with the Baptists, but when the old church was divided they did not join the present organization. Politically, he was a whig until the organization of the republican party. From that time until his death, he was an earnest republican, never opposing party measures or party methods. He was united in marriage, November 18, 1856, to Mary (Wolcott) Hunt, his brother Robert's widow, daughter of Asa and Elizabeth (Stanton) Wolcott, who was born at Coburg, Canada, October 2, 1825. To them were born three daughters and one son, Mary Elizabeth, Julia (Rogers), Lillie, and Reuben W., Jr. Mr. Hunt possessed many Christian graces. He was always generous and kind, aiding those around him by his counsel, and bestowing his sympathies upon the unfortunate and despairing. He was charitable and hospitable, true to his friends and ever ready to serve them. He was fond of his home and home joys, uniformly sweet-tempered and loving in his family, and thoughtful of their welfare and comfort. He was always cheerful and always had a pleasant word for every one. He was fond of both prose and poetry and could express his thoughts clearly in either. His writings were of the incisive and laconic style, as the following extract will show: "Faith reaches, prayer opens, but purity of heart alone enters the portals of Heaven." Mr. Hunt had two marked characteristics: honesty of purpose and purity of action. He lived the life of a Christian and died universally lamented. typed, emailed to me by Karen Hammer, county webmaster for Peoria and Stark co., IL my note redid page 05/21/2006 The Biographies below were all typed by Kathy Mills whom I bought her a reproduction of this book to be able to put these online without having to copy from the originals and mail to her. Saves me money in the long run as anyone who says that genealogy is free is out of their minds....
Adams, Ziba: Farmer and carpenter, Elba Township, born in Luzerne
County, Pennsylvania September 10, 1820 and educated in the common schools. His
father was Hazard Adams of Connecticut, and the mother was Elizabeth Adams of
Pennsylvania.
Adams, Austin; Farmer; Persifer Township'
born October 03, 1868, in Elba Township, Knox County, Illinois. His Father,
Ziba Adams, and his mother Delia Gullet, were natives of Ohio. He received
his education in Elba Township and in Galesburg. Mr. Adams was married to
Susie Rafferty, March 15, 1899, at Peoria, Illinois. Mr. Adam's father came
from Ohio to Knox County about 1846, and settled in Persifer Township, and later
removed to Elba Township. In early life he worked on a farm and in 1892, began
farming for himself in Persifer Township. Mr. Adams has those habits of
industry and economy which are at once the prerequisites and the harbingers of
success. In religious belief, Mr. Adams is a Methodist. He is a democrat.
Foxie's Note: Ziba Adams also
has a biography in this book and on this site at in this book; one in the
1886 Portrait & Biographical Album of Knox County, IL, too.
Baer, Eli F., Farmer, Henderson Township;
born Jan. 11, 1863, in Henry Co., IL; educated in Westfield College, IL. His
parents, who were natives of Franklin Co., PA. were: David F. Baer,
born May 11, 1827, and died July 18, 1890, and Susanna (Rine) Baer,
born April 28, 1825; his grandparents were David and Elizabeth (Flickinger)
Baer, of Lancaster Co, PA; his maternal grandparents were Michael
Rine of Lancaster Co, PA., and Elizabeth (Dunkle) Rine of
Hagerstown, Maryland; his great-grandparents were Michael Dunkle and
Susanna Raider.
Mr. Baer was married to Angie Waters at Gilson, IL. May 25, 1898. Mr. Baer is a prohibitionist. In religion he belongs to the United Brethren in Christ. Baird, Benjamin P., son of W. H. and Elizabeth (Farwell) Baird, was born in Pennsylvania, Mar. 19, 1855. His paternal grandparents were Benjamin and Ellen Baird of Pennsylvania, and the parents of his mother were James and Permelia Farwell of the same State. Mr. Baird came with his father to Elba Township, where they located on Section 4. He was educated at Hedding College, Abingdon, IL. At the age of twenty-two he began farming for himself, and he now owns a very fine farm of three hundred and sixty acres on Section 16 of Elba Township, where he is quite an extensive breeder of fine horses. His first marriage was to Mary E. Oberholtzer, who was born in Truro Township, Oct. 22, 1859, and died June 13, 1880. Her parents were Joseph and Anna Oberholtzer, residents of Truro. By this marriage Mr. Baird has one son, Newton Homer, who was born Oct. 1, 1878, and is a student in Knox College, Galesburg, IL. Mr. Baird married a second time, Feb. 22, 1882, to Josephine G. Gray, who was born July 29, 1861. Her parents are Lemuel Gray and Mary Ann (Swegie) Gray, now living in Farmington, IL. The children by this marriage are Willie L., born April 5, 1883; Leo P., born July 12, 1885; Lois I., born April 22, 1887; Eva L., born Sept 7, 1889; Forest Gray, born Dec. 21, 1890. Mr. Baird has been Road Commissioner for the township of Elba, and has served as School Director sixteen years. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and a republican in politics. Baird, James Ogden, Farmer; Elba Township; born in Pennsylvania April 6, 1853. His parents, William H. Baird, born April 6, 1820, and Elizabeth J. (Farwell) came from Pennsylvania. His paternal grandparents were Benjamin and Ellen Baird, the former a native of Pennsylvania. His maternal grandparents were James and Permelia Farwell, natives of Pennsylvania. Sept. 17, 1874, Mr. Baird was married in Kickapoo, Peoria Co., to Adelia J. Brown; she was born in Kickapoo Feb. 25, 1851, and was the daughter of Jeremiah and Jemimah Brown. They had three children: Grace E., born Sept 8, 1876, died July 11, 1890; Byron L., born Nov. 22, 1877; Ralph O., born Sept 8, 1883. Mrs. Baird’s parents are dead. Mr. Baird came from Pennsylvania with his father in 1856, and settled in the township of Elba, on a farm on the same section, which is still his home. He is on Section 4, southeast quarter, which is on the main road between Williamsfield and Yates City. He is a large raiser of horses and hogs. His son, Byron, has a good education and is now with a real estate firm in Iowa. Ralph is on the farm. Mr. Baird was Supervisor from Dec. 1889 until April 1893. In politics he is a democrat. Baird, John M., Williamsfield, Truro Township; Lumber Dealer; born July 15, 1863, in Knox County; educated in Abingdon, IL. His parents, William H. and Elizabeth Jane (Farwell) Baird, were born in Pennsylvania. Sept. 9, 1844, in Elba Township, Mr. Baird was married to Florence R. Sumner, who was born Dec. 16, 1861. Mr. and Mrs. Baird have two children: Una C., born Dec. 4, 1888; Vesper E., born Aug. 6, 1892. Mrs. Baird is a member of the Eastern Star Lodge. Mr. Baird has been President of the Town Board. He is a member of the K. of P., No. 523, Williamsfield. He is an extensive dealer in lumber. In politics he is a republican. Baird, W. S., Farmer, Williamsfield, Elba Township; born Nov. 12, 1859, in Elba Township; educated at Hedding College, Abingdon, IL. His parents, William H. Baird and Elizabeth (Farwell) were born in Clinton County. His paternal grandfather was Henry Baird; his maternal grandfather, Farwell, was a native of Pennsylvania. Jan. 18, 1883, he was married in Elba Township to Clara I. Sherman. She was born July 26, 1864 and is a daughter of John W. and Ann Maria (Bradford) Sherman. There are two children, Edith L, born Jan. 8, 1884, and Floyd S., born Aug. 31, 1886. Mrs. Baird’s parents are living in Elba Township. Mr. Baird has a fine farm of two hundred and nineteen acres on Section 4, Elba Township, where his father lived for thirty-five years. Baird, William H., born April 6, 1820, in Clinton Co, PA, on the west branch of the Susquehanna River. His parents were Benjamin and Ellen (Summerson) Baird. Benjamin Baird was a native of Pennsylvania, and lived in Clinton Co. from his earliest youth. Ellen Summerson was a native of England, and came to America with her parents when she was an infant. They were married in 1817 and were the parents of eleven children, none of whom, six boys and three girls, attained maturity, William H. being the eldest. Mr. Baird’s childhood was passed on the farm, and in the forests and along the streams of his native State. He was a lover of nature, and an adept with rod and gun. His education was limited, being confined to branches taught in the common schools. He afterwards taught in the schools of his county. He farmed for several years, during part of which time he worked in the forest, felling trees, moving them on the snow to the streams, and rafting them to distant saw-mills during the spring freshets. In 1848, with the aid of his father, he invested in a quarter section of land in what is now Elba Township, Knox Co, IL, where he moved with his family in 1856, settling on the northeast quarter of Section 4. He resided there until his death, which occurred on the thirty-fourth anniversary of the date of their arrival in the county, June 2nd. He was a successful farmer, and made additions to his farm from time to time. Mr. Baird was married to Elizabeth Jane Farwell, May 22, 1850. She was born May 15, 1821, in Clinton Co, PA. Her parents were of German, Irish, and Scotch descent. There were six children: Jerusha Grace, now Mrs. Wheeler; James Ogden; Benjamin Preston; Leroy Joseph; William Sebastian; and John McClellan. Mr. Baird was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church in Pennsylvania. His life was moral and upright, and old associates aver they never heard him utter a profane word. His wife always affiliated with the Methodist Episcopal Church people, but was not a member of any church. Politically Mr. Baird was a democrat. He was a modest, unassuming man, precise in his methods, industrious and frugal. He was a friend of the church and of education, contributing liberally to their support; he was a School Director during most of his life in Illinois. Both his precept and his example were in accord with right action. He found true pleasure in associating with old friends, and greatly enjoyed telling comic tales with his family about him to join in the merriment. He was a life long sufferer from asthma, which, with other infirmities, caused his death June 2, 1890, shortly after completing his seventieth year. A few months afterward, his wife built a comfortable home in Williamsfield, a few miles from the old farm, where she lives, surrounded by her children. Barlow, Gideon A., Prominent among the successful farmers of Knox County was Gideon A. Barlow, who resided in Lynn Township, where he had an excellently improved farm of six hundred acres. He was born in Sullivan County, NY, July 18, 1833. His parents, Nathan and Athalia (Gillett) Barlow, were natives of the State of New York, and came to Illinois in 1838. They settled in Lafayette, Stark Co., and two years later removed to Lynn Township, and located on Section 24. Nathan Barlow erected a country tavern at Fraker’s Grove, known as the Travelers’ Home, a great resort in 1849-50-51 for travelers on their way to the gold fields of California. In 1852, he sold the Travelers’ Home, went to Lafayette, and conducted the Lafayette House until 1862. His wife having died in 1859, he lived with his son, Gideon A., until his death Feb. 16, 1867. Gideon A. was the second of three sons who lived to manhood. He was educated in the common schools of Knox County. May 20, 1856, in Toulon, Stark Co., Mr. Barlow was married to Martha Peterson, who was born in Sweden, Oct, 8, 1838. Mrs. Barlow came with her parents to the United States when she was but seven years of age. Her parents were connected with the Johnson colony, but left it and settled in Copley Township, Knox County. Her mother died in Copley Township, and her father removed to Henry County. Mr. and Mrs. Barlow had eight children: Ames A., William F., Gideon B., Mrs. Ada L. Swickard, Edgar S., John Franklin, Forest S., and Lewis W. Lewis W. and John Franklin reside in St. Joseph, Missouri; Amos A. in Galesburg; Edgar S. is in the grocery business in Galva, IL.; Willard F., Gideon B., Ada L., and Forest S. in Lynn Township. It was when Mr. Barlow was twenty-three years old that, taking his father’s advice he entered upon the task of making a farm from eighty acres of unbroken land, which his father had given him in Lynn Township. His faith and enthusiasm gave him perseverance and courage, and his small beginning became one of the best farms in Knox County. Mr. Barlow was a member of the Baptist Church. Politically he was a republican, and held many local offices. His death occurred Dec. 10, 1898. Mr. Barlow’s third son, Gideon B., was born in Lynn Township, Knox Co., Oct. 4, 1862, and received his education in Galva, Henry Co., IL. and in Davenport, Iowa. Feb. 15, 1888 in Galesburg, he was married to Carolina Peterson, who was born Jan. 5, 1859; they have had four children: Ada Louise and Ernest Austin, born Sept. 10, 1890; Willie F. born June 6, 1893; and George Gideon, born Mar 23, 1895. He is a farmer and stock raiser, feeding about twenty-five head of cattle and a hundred head of hogs. In religion, he is a Methodist. In politics he is a republican, he has held the office of school director. Mr. Barlow’s sixth son, Forrest Samuel, was born Mar. 5, 1874, on the old Barlow homestead, and received his education in the common schools of Knox County, and at the Galva, Henry County High School. Jan. 16, 1895 he married Nellie, daughter of Richard Payne of Galva; they have two children: Amy A. and Richard P. Politically he is a republican. Beals, John Ashley, born in Wells, Rutland Co, VT. Feb. 9, 1828. The Beals family came from England to America in 1638, and settled in Massachusetts. Mr. Beals’ paternal grandfather, Caleb Beals, was a native of that State, as was also his father, David Beals, who was born in Plainfield, MA. His mother, Sarah, daughter of David Keyes, was born at Middleton, VT. Mr. Beals received his education at Castleton Academy, Castleton, Vermont, and in 1850, was appointed by the American Board of Foreign Missions, to whom he had offered his services, manager of the Indian farm at Ianuba, now Stockbridge Station, Indian Territory, where he was employed from 1850 to 1853. These years, spent with the Indian Nation of the Choctaws, were three of the most interesting of his life. It was on his return from the Indian Territory to Vermont, that he passed through Knox County and stopped at Victoria, where his friends, Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Bissell, former teachers among the Indians, resided; and it was then that he determined to return to Knox County and make it his home. March 2, 1854, in Castleton, Vermont. Mr. Beals was married to Jane E., daughter of Alvin Loveland, a merchant and manufacturer of boots and shoes. Mr. Beals had been reared upon a farm, and as soon as he was married, started at once for Knox County, where he finally settled upon a farm of eighty acres on Section 7, Lynn Township, to which he added another eighty, and later, forty acres more. Mr. Beals had prospered as a farmer, and his life and character has been above reproach; he is respected and honored by all who know him. In religion he is a Congregationalist, and has given much time and wise effort to the Sunday school work. He is now President of the Lynn Township Sunday School Association. In politics, he is a republican. Six children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Beals, five of whom are now living. Mrs. Emily Hunting; Mrs. Alice L. Foote; Mrs. Mary E. Foster; Mrs. Hattie Betts; William E. and Arthur R., deceased. Mrs. Beals died July 2, 1891, aged 63 years. Beamer, Frank S., Mr. Frank S. Beamer is a careful and thrifty farmer, and one of the successful men in Persifer Township. He was born Mar 10, 1844 in Gettysburg, Adams Co, PA., and received his education in the same county. The family is of German descent. His paternal grandfather died in Maryland. Jacob Beamer, father of Frank S., was born in Carroll Co, Maryland, and died in Gettysburg, PA. His mother, Ann Polly, was a daughter of John Wentz; she died in Gettysburg. Mr. Beamer was reared on a farm in Adams Co, PA. In Oct. 1862, at the age of eighteen, he enlisted for nine months in Company G, One Hundred and Fifteenth Regiment of Pennsylvania troops, taking the place of a poor cousin who was the head of a large family; the consideration he received from his cousin for this service, was a horse. He served in the Department of Fortress Monroe until July 1863, when he was honorably discharged. In August 1864, he re-enlisted in an independent company of U. S. Cavalry, for one hundred days. Feb. 15, 1865, he enlisted in Company G of the Seventy-fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and was honorably discharged September 1865. After the war, Mr. Beamer remained in Pennsylvania until the spring of 1867. It was on the 18th of March of that year that he arrived in Knoxville, IL., where he bought a team with money he had saved while he was in the army, and went to farming two miles north of Gilson. He lived nine years on a farm in Knox Township, and bought one hundred and sixty acres of land in Persifer Township, the southwest quarter of Section 8, where he removed in the spring of 1877 and began to improve the farm. He has given especial attention to stock-raising, and it is in this that he has had the greatest success. He not only feeds his cattle all the grain from his farm, but buys a large amount for the same purpose. He now owns three hundred and ninety five acres of land. February 25, 1869, Mr. Beamer was married in Knoxville to Mary E., daughter of James England, deceased, formerly of Bedford County Pennsylvania. Mr. and Mrs. Beamer have had two children: Harry E.; and Maggie A., wife of Charles Myers. Mr. Beamer is a member of the G. A. R. at Knoxville. In politics he is a republican; he has been Road Commissioner, and has held school offices. Becker, Frederick, Farmer; Copley Township; born Oct. 29, 1840 in Otsego Co., N.Y.; educated in the district school, Charlottesville Seminary, Fergusonville Academy (New York), and at a select school in Illinois. His parents were Frederick and Catharine (Tenbroeck) Becker. The ancestors of the Becker family came from Germany, settled in New Jersey, removed to Albany County, N.Y., and thence to South Worcester, Otsego County. The father of Mr. Becker died Feb. 8, 1841, aged thirty-one and a half years. Mr. Becker came to Victoria in the spring of 1857; he taught school in the winter and clerked and engaged in farm work in the summer. In 1863 he rented a farm, and in 1869, purchased the farm on Section 13, where he now resides. He was married to Jane, a daughter of Rev. J. Hedstrom. Mr. Becker said: “I have lived in Copley Township about forty years and have been associated with a thrifty, energetic and ambitious class of farmers; one of the important lessons to be learned in life is, ‘do something with energy’.” Mr. Becker has filled official positions in the township, and for several years has been a member of the Board of Supervisors. Becker, Lewis, Knoxville; Physician; born in Clarksville, Tennessee, Oct. 15,1864; educated in Galesburg, IL. His father, Lother Becker, was born in Germany; his mother, Mary (Smith) in Vermont. His maternal grandparents, Loren and Eliza (Bemis) Smith, were natives of Vermont. Dr. Becker studied medicine one year at Michigan University, Ann Arbor, and graduated from the Chicago Medical College in 1888. He has had a successful practice at Knoxville. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church. In politics he is a republican. Oct. 11, 1888 Dr. Becker married Addie H. Rearick in Galesburg; they have three children: Harry F., F. Marjorie, and L. Dunster. Bennett, Joseph, deceased; Farmer: Haw Creek Township; born in Milton, Saratoga Co, N.Y., Nov. 22, 1818. His parents were William Bennett and Lydia (Hathaway). Aug. 25, 1839 he was married to Lois C. Wilcox in Onandaga Co, N.Y. Four of their children are living: Mrs. Hellenda L. Pearce, Chicago; Mrs. L. Adeline Foote, Kansas; Mrs. Lois A. Housh; and Joseph Bennett, Jr. Mrs. Bennett’s father, Asel Wilcox, a native of Massachusetts, was a pioneer of Illinois, and bought several farms, one of them, on which his daughter settled, being located in Knox County; he was a Master Mason. His daughter Lois C. was born Nov. 6, 1813 in Manlius, Onandaga Co., N.Y. His wife Hellenda (Foster) was a native of New York. Lois C. (Wilcox) Bennett was educated in New York and taught school there for ten years. At the age of thirteen she joined the Methodist Episcopal Church and has been a member for more than 73 years, and a Sunday school teacher for nearly 70 years. She is a remarkable woman and a good manager, and at the age of 85 her mind is bright and active. Joseph Bennett, senior, and family came to Illinois in 1855, and to Knox County in 1858. They settled in Haw Creek Township, where the family owned one hundred and sixty acres of land, to which Mrs. Bennett later added ninety acres. Mr. Bennett was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he was a republican. He died in Haw Creek Township Nov. 11, 1875. Benson, Tufve, Farmer; Sparta Township; born near Christianstadt, Sweden, Aug. 27, 1838. His parents were Bengt and Hannah Nelson of Sweden. At the early age of sixteen, in 1855, he came to Warren Co, IL, where his brother Olof had preceded him. After spending five years as a farm hand, he purchased sixty acres of land in Warren Co. and began farming for himself. April 11, 1861, he was married in Monmouth to Catherine Ellison, daughter of Nels and Permelia Ellison, she having emigrated from Sweden with her parents in 1851, when ten years of age. Three children: Samuel David; Carrie, wife of Henry Gehring; Hannah, wife of George Behringer, were born to them in Warren Co. In 1867, Mr. Benson, with his family, moved into Knox County, and settled south of Wataga. Here Edith (deceased), Ida May, and Ira Edward were born. In 1875, Mr. Benson bought a farm of one hundred and twenty-nine acres on Section 8, Sparta Township, where he now resides. At this place three children were born to them: Harvey Russel, Jeannette, and Hazle June. Samuel D. is a successful merchant in Chicago, and owns five hundred acres of land in Marion Co, IL. Ira E. is a former railroad employee, and when a soldier in the late war, was stationed in Porto Rico. Jeanette is a Normal student at Austin, Minnesota. Mr. Benson has been successful, and is a highly respected farmer. In religion he is Lutheran; in politics a republican. Bird, William Benjamin, Farmer; Salem Township; born in Canada, Nov. 10, 1850; educated in the common schools. His parents, Stephen and Ann Bird, were born in Ireland, as was also his maternal grandfather, William Bird. Stephen Bird came to Canada when a young man and thence to this country, Aug. 16, 1864, and now lives in Yates City, at the age of 82. Mr. W. B. Bird came to Elmwood, IL. in 1864, and has lived since then in that vicinity, except three years, when he was in the west. Sept. 18, 1878 he was married in Salem Township to Mary E. Bliss; she was born Aug. 16, 1860 and is the daughter of C. and Angelina (Smith) Bliss, both of whom are now living in Yates City. There are 3 children: Arthur L, born May 5, 1881; Harlem W., born Oct 18, 1884; Forrest W., born June 1, 1892. In religious belief the family are Methodists. In politics Mr. Bird is a republican. Bliss, Clarence M., Farmer; Yates City; Salem Township; born in Peoria County, Aug. 17, 1857; educated in Yates City. His father, Cyrus Bliss, was born in Chautauqua County, N. Y., May 23, 1834; his mother, Angeline (Smith) Bliss, was born in Indiana County, PA, July 18, 1833. Cyrus Bliss’ parents were Zenas Bliss, born in Vermont, in 1765, and Mabel (Gilit) Bliss. Mrs. Cyrus Bliss’ parents were Elijah and Susan W. (Brown) Smith. Feb. 8, 1883 Mr. Bliss married, in Salem Township, Ella B. Carroll; of this union there are three children: Walter C. born Mar. 21, 1886; Herbert G, born Aug. 12, 1888; and Angie May, born Feb. 28, 1894. Mrs. Bliss was born in Knox County, Oct. 25, 1861, daughter of William and Jane (Lucas) Carroll, both of whom are still living at Middle Grove, Fulton Co, IL. Mr. Bliss has a farm of two hundred and eight acres, with fine buildings, on Section 13, Salem Township, one and one-half miles southeast of Yates City. He and his wife are members of the Presbyterian Church, of which Mr. Bliss is an Elder and Trustee. He has held the office of School Director for a number of years. In politics he is a republican. Bliss, Cyrus, Retired Farmer; Yates City, Salem Township; born May 23, 1834 in Chautauqua County, N. Y.; educated in the common schools. His father, Z. G. Bliss, was born May 12, 1793 in Shaftsbury, Vermont; his mother Mabel (Gillett) was born in Hartford, CT., July 3, 1798. They died at Princeville, the former, Dec. 25, 1868, the latter, June, 1882. Z. G. Bliss’ parents were Zenas and Sarah (Auton) Bliss, the former born in Vermont in 1765. Feb. 25, 1855, Mr. Cyrus Bliss married Angeline J. Smith in Knox Co, IL.; she was born July 18, 1833 in Indiana Co, PA., and was the daughter of Elijah and Susan M. (Brown) Smith, who came to Salem Township in 1851; her father died in April 1878; her mother died June 17, 1899 in Farmington at the age of 85. Mr. and Mrs. Bliss have six children: Luther A., born March 25, 1856; Clarence M., born Aug. 17, 1857; Olive V., born May 9, 1859; Mary E., born Aug 16, 1860; William S., born Apr 30, 1864; and Lillie B., born Mar 14, 1867. Mrs. Bliss is a member of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Bliss came from New York to Illinois with his father May 23, 1837, and settled in Hallick Township, Peoria County in 1838. January 1847 they removed to Stark County, near Lawn Ridge. In coming from Chautauqua Co, N.Y., his father floated down the Alleghany and Ohio rivers to Cincinnati upon a raft of lumber which he had made with a house upon it; he sold the lumber and took a steamer to Peoria by the Ohio, Mississippi and Illinois rivers. Mr. Cyrus Bliss came to Salem Township in 1853, where he has since been a resident, excepting three years, when he was in Peoria County. He owns a farm of seventy acres on Section 24, Salem Township; one in Peoria County of one hundred and forty-seven acres, and a house and lot in Yates City. In religion he is a Presbyterian; in politics a prohibitionist. Boland, John, Farmer; Walnut Grove Township; born in Sweden; came to Knox Co. in 1857, and worked by the month until 1860. He was married to Anna Olson in 1860; their children are: Anna, Ida, Emma, Alfred, and William. Mr. Boland rented a farm in Ontario Township for ten years, and in 1871, bought eighty acres of land in Walnut Grove Township; he afterwards purchased the farm on which he now lives. He is a member of the Lutheran Church. Mr. Boland is one of the prominent citizens of the township. Booth, Jacob, Maquon, Knox Co, IL.; was born in Penobscot Co., Maine, June 1, 1821. He was the son of Isaac and Mary Booth. Isaac Booth was born July 7, 1792, and married Mary Grinnell Dec. 6, 1812. Mary Grinnell was born April 30, 1795. She was the daughter of Royl Grinnell, a Revolutionary soldier, under General Hull. Isaac died April 30, 1852; and his wife, April 12, 1836 Jacob Booth came to Sangamon Co, IL. in 1839, and to Knox Co. in 1844. He was married to Malinda Housh, daughter of George P. Housh, Sept 19, 1844. Malinda Booth was born Mar 17, 1821, and died June 9, 1869. Jacob Booth’s second marriage was to Edith Martin of Galesburg, IL, Oct. 24, 1869. She was the daughter of Martin and Lucinda Martin. Mr. Martin died in 1898, aged nearly 95 years. Mr. and Mrs. Booth have one adopted son, Frank Booth, of Abingdon, IL. Mr. Booth is a republican and cast his first vote for Henry Clay in 1844. He and his wife are Christian Scientists, and are members of the mother church in Boston; and also members of the branch church at Moquon, IL., and were students of Mrs. Janet T. Colman, one of Mrs. Mary Baker G. Eddy’s loyal students. Mr. and Mrs. Booth are faithful workers in the cause of Christian Science. Borrell, Christopher, Farmer; Knoxville; first husband of Mrs. Hannah Patterson; born July 9, 1834 in England, where he received his education. Feb. 16, 1859, in Knox Township, he was married to Hannah A. Rewland. Their three children now living are: George T., Charles J., and Emily M. George T. married Melinda Patterson, of Warren Co. Emily M. married Bert C. Allen; they have two children: Mary A. and Clyde F. Charles J. married Rosa B. Sharp; they have six children: C. Edward, William C., George G., Emily E., Sarah F., and Samuel C. Mr. Borrell was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he was independent. He died Aug. 19, 1881. Borrell, James, Farmer; Orange Township; born in England, July 31, 1842; educated in the common schools. His parents, Pattan and Roseannah (Johnson) Borrell, were English, as were his paternal grandparents, James and Elizabeth (Pattan) Borrell, and his maternal grandfather, Johnson. March 27, 1867, Mr. Borrell was married to Eva N. Roberts, in Knoxville, IL. They have had four children: Mary L.; Fannie E.; Charlie P.; and Lenna L. In politics Mr. Borrell is a republican. He holds the office of School Director. Bowhay, D. L., Farmer; Elba Township; born Dec. 10, 1859 in Elba Township; educated in common schools. His parents, Joseph and Elizabeth (Householder) Bowhay, were born in Fulton Co., PA. The father moved first to Peoria, then to Elba Township, and in 1883 to southeastern Nebraska. Mr. D. L. Bowhay was married at Yates City Jan. 20, 1887, to M. A. Peck; she was born May 12, 1859, and was the daughter of Moses and Catherine (Egolff) Peck. They have one child, H. C. Bowhay, born April 5, 1890. The parents of Mrs. Bowhay lived in Knox Co.; they are deceased. Mr. Bowhay is a well-to-do farmer. He is a democrat and has been Collector for Elba Township. Thanks bunches & bunches Kathy..... |
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Saturday, January 20, 2007 09:48:49 AM last update |
