Campbell, Orange Lowell, a native of Knox County and was born in Knoxville, March 7, 1852. His father was Elisha Campbell, born in Gallipolis, Ohio. His mother was Mary Amelia Lowell, a native of Maryland.

      As the name indicates, Mr. Campbell’s ancestors are of Scotch descent. His great-grandfather, John Campbell, was born in Scotland and was a cousin of Thomas Campbell, the poet. His grandfather was also called John Campbell, and was a man of broad culture and an accomplished gentleman. He was a physician and poet, and during the struggle for independence, became an officer in the Revolution. He was a native of Virginia.

      Mr. Campbell’s father was both a teacher and mechanic. As a sergeant, he entered his country’s service in the War of the Rebellion and was wounded in a skirmish at Fort Donelson. He was so injured as to induce a spinal disease: but by exercising the greatest care, his life was prolonged for fifteen years. At the early age of sixteen he left his Ohio home coming first to Bloomington, IL., then to St. Louis, then to Peoria, and finally to Knoxville. He resided in Knoxville for twenty-five years, and then removed to Council Bluffs, Iowa where he died.

      Mr. O. L. Campbell obtained his education in the public schools of Knoxville. After receiving the customary training in the primary grammar schools, he entered the high school, from which he graduated in 1868. In his studies he was proficient. The circumstances and conditions of his boyhood opened up to him a practical view of life. When but a lad, the bent of his mind was turned towards the printer’s art. Early he entered the printing office of the Knox County Republican under the editorship and management of Z. Beatty, and served there as an apprentice almost continuously until Feb. 23, 1876, when he became editor and proprietor. For nearly a quarter of a century, the Knox County Republican has made its weekly visit in many homes and has ever regarded as an interesting and reliable publication. 

      Mr. Campbell is certainly a public spirited man. Self-interest, the main spring of action, has not been the all-absorbing passion of his life. The many and various offices that he has held in different organizations attest the fact that he has been a worker for the public good. He was elected City Clerk of Knoxville for eight different terms and served as Town Clerk for twenty years. In town and county he has been the Secretary of twenty-two organizations. He was a member of the Knox County agricultural Board for nineteen years, serving as Secretary during the entire period. For seventeen years, he has served with credit as Secretary of the Old Settlers’ Association. In 1892, he was one of the originators and organizers of the Farmers’ Institute, and had held the office of Secretary during the eight years of its existence. He is also one of the organizers of the Knoxville Public Library; was a member for eight years of the Board of Education; is a member of the Fraternal Life Insurance Organization, called “The Miner of Honor”; was charter member of the Home Forum, Sons of Veterans, and Modern Woodmen of America. It is but truth to say, that Mr. Campbell has performed the functions of these various offices acceptably and creditably.

      Mr. Campbell’s great experience, well informed mind, and readiness to assist in public enterprises, have made him a very useful member of society. He attracts by his personal bearing, gentility of manners, and frankness of spirit. He is liberal, kind, and charitable and the golden rule of right doing and right living is his unerring guide. He is frank, open hearted, consistent, and manifests in his daily life honesty of purpose and integrity of action. In religious belief, he is a Presbyterian. In political faith, he is a conscientious, straightforward republican. Under President Harrison’s administration, he was appointed Postmaster at Knoxville, holding the office for four years. He is now Chairman of the Republican Congressional Committee of the Tenth Congressional District.

      Mr. Campbell was married in Knoxville June 19, 1873 to Augusta Stowe Bull. Three children have been born to them: Sterling H., Secretary of the National Railway Specialty Company, Chicago; Charlotte W., teacher of English in St. Mary’s School, Knoxville; and Mary, who was born Oct. 9, 1893.

Carns, John Z., President of the Farmers’ National Bank, Knoxville; was born in Knoxville Sept. 8, 1858. He was educated at Knox College, Galesburg, IL. His father, John W. Carns, was born in Virginia, and his mother, Sarah (Zook) Carns was born in Pennsylvania. 

      Mr. J. Z. Carns was married in Knoxville, IL. Sept 10, 1890 to Nellie Pierce. They have one child, Marie L. 

      Mr. Carns entered the Farmers’ National Bank as Assistant Cashier in 1885, in 1887 was made Cashier, and in the spring of 1899, he was elected President. In politics Mr. Carns is a republican.

Carson, Cyrus N., Knoxville, Dry Goods Merchant; born in Pennsylvania, March 13, 1846; educated in Pennsylvania public schools. Mr. Carson’s parents, John B. Carson and Elizabeth (Shaffer), were natives of Pennsylvania, as were his maternal grandparents, Daniel and Katherine (Eichelberger) Shaffer. 

      March 19, 1873, Mr. Carson was married to Ruth E. Baily in Knoxville; they have four children: R. Baily, Elizabeth M., Ruth E., and Margaret H. 

      Mr. Carson is a member of Knoxville Lodge, No 66, A. F. and A. M.; also of Rabona Chapter, No 95, R. A. M., and of Illinois Council, No. 1, of Knoxville, R. P. S. M. In politics he is a democrat.

Carter, D. M., Wagon and Carriage business; Salem Township; born Nov. 8, 1838 in Gallia Co., OH.; educated in the common schools. His father, George Carter, was born in Gallia Co, OH., and died in Ohio at the age of 84. His mother, Phebe (Ripley) who also died in Ohio, was born in New York; her father, Joshua Ripley, a Baptist minister was a native of New York State. George Carter’s father, John, was born in Shenandoah Vale, Virginia, and lived to the age of 97. 

      Dec. 8, 1868, Mr. Carter married Miss L. J. Boggs in Abingdon, IL. She was the daughter of Elliott and Elinor (McCoy) Boggs, who came to Abingdon in 1864. Mrs. Carter was born in Nicholas Co., W. V., Oct. 20, 1841. Both her parents are deceased; the father died at the age of 70; the mother at the age of 80. 

      Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Carter: Etha B., born Sept 18, 1869; Myrta L., born July 10, 1873, died April 10, 1894; Earl M., born June 23, 1876. Etha B. graduated at the Chicago Musical College; she married Dr. H. J. Hensley; Earl M. is a graduate of the Illinois School of Dentistry at Chicago. 

      Mr. Carter was a soldier in the late Civil War, a sergeant in Company F, One Hundred and Forty-fourth Ohio Infantry. He worked for the government in building and repairing ambulances and wagons until Lee’s surrender. He is a member of the G.A. R., Yates City and has been a member of the Board of Aldermen several terms. He was manager of a co-operative store in Yates City, IL. for about ten years: U. S. storekeeper at Peoria under Julius S. Starr for five years; and now holds the office of Township Treasurer. In politics he is a republican.

Carver, Edwin, Farmer and fruit grower; Henderson Township; born June 28, 1834 in Fayette Co, IN. His father, Jonathan Carver, was born on the Hudson River in New York State, and died at the age of 82. His mother, Malinda (Nelson) was a native of Augusta, Maine. His paternal grandparents, Elijah and Susan (Longwell) Carver, were natives of New York State; his paternal great-grandfather was Timothy Carver. His maternal grandparents, Jacob and Mary (Campbell) Nelson, were born in Maine, as was also his maternal great-grandfather, Jacob Nelson, whose son Horatio Nelson, was in the naval service during the Revolution.

      Feb. 18, 1857, Mr. Carver was married in Fayette Co, IN., to Nancy J. Van Buskirk, daughter of George and Rachel (Helm) Van Buskirk, natives respectively of Kentucky and Pennsylvania. Both parents died in Fayette Co, IN., the father being nearly 96 years of age. 

      Mr. and Mrs. Carver have one son, Grant, who was educated in Galva and Chicago, and married Helen, daughter of S.H. Bateman. 

      Mr. Carver came to Illinois, Oct. 18, 1865, and settled three miles northeast of Lafayette, Stark County, on a farm of two hundred and forty acres of virgin prairie, which he improved and subsequently sold. He moved near Lafayette and from there, in 1880, to Galva, where he engaged in the implement business. After five years, he returned to the farm, which he cultivated until 1889, when he moved to Galesburg. He owns sixty-five acres of land near Henderson, which he converted into a fruit farm, a charming retreat greatly admired by Galesburg people. He is a republican.

Cation, David C., Cashier; Williamsfield, Truro Township; born in Millbrook, Peoria County, June 16, 1856; educated in Elba Township, Knox Co. His parents, James Cation and Catharine (Gray), were born in Glasgow, Scotland; his paternal grandparents, William and Margaret (Paul) Cation, were born in Scotland. 

      He was married to Ella Barber Feb. 20, 1884 in Quincy, IL. She was born Aug. 6, 1855. There are two children living, James L., born Jan. 18, 1885, near McMinnville, Oregon, and Catharine, born Sept. 10, 1891. 

      Mr. Cation has been a teacher in the public schools of Knox, Peoria, and Stark counties, IL., and also in the State of Oregon. He was in the employ of one of the largest lumbering firms in Portland, OR., for two years, and was a weigher and clerk with the grain firm of J. W. Briedwell at Briedwell, OR. He was a student in Hedding College, Abingdon, IL., took a course in Brown’s Business College, Jacksonville, IL. He has been Town Clerk and Supervisor of Truro Township and is Village Treasurer and Cashier of the bank at Williamsfield. In politics he is a republican, and is at present a member of the Knox County Republican Committee.

Cation, William, Farmer; Truro Township; born Aug. 29, 1858, in Peoria Co.; educated in Knox County. His parents, James and Catharine (Gray) Cation, were born in Glasgow, Scotland; his paternal grandparents were William and Margaret (Paul) Cation. 

      Dec. 28, 1882 in Galesburg, Mr. Cation was married to Sarah A., daughter of Thomas A. and Olive Cowell; Mrs. Cation was born Oct. 8, 1859. There were four children: Lulu Maud, born Mar. 22, 1885, died Aug. 30, 1888; Charles Arthur, born Aug. 2, 1889; Lelah May, born Sept 22, 1892; William James, born Aug. 25, 1897. 

      Mrs. Cation’s parents are now living in Elba Township.

      Mr. Cation is a practical farmer, and has a very fine home. He is a republican.

Caulkins, William, Knoxville; farmer and fruit grower; born Oct. 30, 1843 in Washington Co, IN., where he was educated in the district schools. His father, Samuel Caulkins was born in Washington Co., IN., and his mother, Sarah A. (Stewart), was born in Ohio. His paternal grandparents, Joel and Desire (Barnard) Caulkins were natives of Onondaga Co, N.Y. Joel Caulkins was born in 1782 and served in the war of 1812. He died in May 1879; his wife died in 1858. William Caulkins’ maternal grandfather was James Stewart.

      Mr. Caulkins’ first wife was Mary Ward, whom he married Oct. 10, 1868. They had ten children: Lewella, Mary, Cora, Olive Z., Delmer, William F., Charles W., Frederick, Lurissa, and Cornelius R. Lewella married William Weikert of Orange Township. They have one son, Earl. Mary married Albert Weikert, of Knoxville. They have one daughter, Porthia. Mary died April 7, 1898. Cora married Rev. F. M. Campbell; they have a baby boy. Olive Z. married John Youngquist; they have a son and daughter, Stirling and Cecil. W. Frank married Gertrude Stokes.

      Dec. 31, 1898, Mr. Caulkins married his second wife, Mrs. Mary Briggs Runyan, in Peoria; she had seven children by her first marriage: Leslie, Nellie, Flora, Edgar, Myron, Verne, and Harold. Mr. Runyan died July 4, 1893. 

      In religion Mr. Caulkins is a Free Methodist. In politics he is a republican. He is a member of G. W. Trafton Post of Knoxville, No 229, Grand Army of the Republic, Department of Illinois. The ancestry of the family is Scotch, Dutch, and English.

Challman, George E., Retired Farmer; Walnut Grove Township; born Dec. 22, 1825 in Voxna, Norland, Sweden, where he was educated, and taught the catechism of the Swedish Established Church. His parents were natives of the Province of Halsingland, and being persecuted because of their religious belief, left Sweden in 1846, and settled in Henry County, IL. They were the first emigrants of the “Bishop Hill Colony”, a socialistic, theocratic community, with which they lived for two years. In 1848-49 they lived with the “Puritans” in Galesburg. March 14, 1850, they started for California by way of Salt Lake City, where they heard Brigham Young preach; they were in the desert July 4, and west of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in the gold region, July 14. Mr. Challman left San Francisco July 21, 1851, on the steamer Oregon, returning east by way of Central America, and the West Indies, reaching Galesburg in the fall of 1851. 

      He was married to Anna Lind in Knoxville, April 21, 1854. She came to America from Sweden in connection with the “Johnson Party”. Her mother died soon after their arrival, and her father returned to Sweden. 

      Mr. and Mrs. Challman have had four children: Amanda, born Jan. 21, 1855, died Oct. 16, 1868; Rose A., wife of G. Waite Robbins, born May 18, 1857, died Oct, 25, 1894; Elizabeth, now Mrs. Justus A. Larson, living in Victoria Township, and Hester Matilda, living with her parents. 

      Mr. Challman is a republican, and has been several times delegate to the Republican Convention of Knox County. He has held the following offices: School Director for twenty-seven years; Commissioner of Highways; School Trustee; and member of the Public Library Board for Walnut Grove Township. Mr. Challman is a prominent and influential man. 

Chamberlain, F. H., Farmer and Furniture Dealer; Salem Township; born Dec. 29, 1847 in Clinton Co., OH; educated in Clinton County common schools. His father, John, was born in New Jersey; his mother, Mary Jane, who is now living in Viana, Clinton Co., OH., was born in Virginia. John Chamberlain’s parents, William (who was a sailor) and Elizabeth, were born in New Jersey. Mary Jane Chamberlain’s parents, Hadon and Elizabeth (Smithson), were born in Virginia. 

      Dec. 18, 1879, Mr. Chamberlain married Charlotte M. West, in Galesburg; they have three children: Bertha M., Edith W., and Glen H. 

      Mrs. Chamberlain is the daughter of Isaac N. and Charlotte M. West. She was born in Salem Township Dec. 4, 1861; her father was a large landowner. 

      Mr. Chamberlain came to Illinois in 1872, and farmed for a number of years; then went into livery and harness business; later in the grocery business; and now has a furniture and undertaking establishment; he also carries a large stock of wall-paper, paints and oils. He is a member of the I.O. of O. F., Lodge No. 360, Yates City. He has been Constable for the town of Salem, and also School Director. In politics he is a republican.

Chapin, Burrell N., Retired Farmer; Knoxville; born Aug. 4, 1834 at Lewiston, IL.; educated in the common schools at Farmington and Canton, IL. His father, Moses Bascom Chapin, was born in MA., Sept. 21, 1805; his mother, Irenia De Maranville, was born June 12, 1808 in Grafton, N. H., where she is still living.

      Mr. Chapin is of a Mayflower and Revolutionary ancestry, his paternal ancestors, with but one exception, having fought for their country, either against the Indians or foreign foe. He is a lineal descendant of William White, the eleventh signer of the Mayflower compact of 1620. His paternal great-grandparents were Captain Caleb and Rebecca (Bascomb) Chapin, the former born July 1836, at Barnardston, MA. His maternal great-grandparents were Charles De Maranville of Freetown, MA, and Deborah (Lombard) De Maranville; his paternal grandparents were Consider Chapin, born Aug 26, 1766, in Deerfield Township, MA, and Esther (Wallace) Chapin; his maternal grandparents were Jabez and Comfort (Buffum) De Maranville, the latter born Mar 15, 1782. Consider and Caleb Chapin served during the Revolution; the former was in Shay’s Rebellion and the latter in the Battle of Lake Erie. 

      Mr. B. N. Chapin was married Sept. 22, 1857 near Farmington, IL., to C. Jane Culver. Three of their four children are now living: Mrs. Edith Adelia McClure, of Knoxville; Mrs. Eva J. Maple of Maguon; and Ora Eugene Chapin, lawyer, of Chicago. Ora Chapin is a graduate of Knox College (1888) and of the Chicago Law School. He has a large and lucrative practice, and has held important offices in Cook County, including those of Deputy Sheriff, Deputy County Clerk and Clerk of the Cook County Courts. 

      Mrs. Chapin is also of distinguished ancestry, among them being William White of Mayflower fame. She is related to Peter Craps and Silas Kirby, who were Revolutionary patriots. Her paternal grandfather, Joseph Culver, served under Washington at Valley Forge, and was at the surrender of Burgoyne. He was one of six men who carried the wounded General Arnold on a litter from the battlefield at Saratoga to Albany, New York. Mrs. Chapin and her two daughters are members of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Charles, Captain George A., was for many years one of the most prominent and influential men in Knox County. Though politically a democrat, he was for many years elected Supervisor in an anti-slavery stronghold, and was the chosen leader of the Knoxville party during the whole period of the county seat war. 

      He was born in Erie Co., N.Y., Dec. 25, 1810, the son of Captain John Charles, a sailor upon the inland seas, who was born in Pennsylvania Oct. 17, 1782, and Eunice Gates, born June 16, 1788 in New York. Captain John Charles came west in 1830 with his family, and located on Section 28 of what is now Knox Township. For a year they occupied an abandoned log cabin, found in the vicinity, then they moved into a hewed log house built by themselves. 

      Here Captain George A. Charles lived until his marriage to Pomelia Gardner, when he located a claim on Section 22 in the same township. His wife dying after the birth of her first child, Rosalia, who became Mrs. J. F. Earl of Mason City, IL, he was again married, Dec. 5, 1843, to Doolinsky Post, daughter of Ezra and Patty (Pratt) Post. By this marriage he had four children: Alvira, Alanson G., Albion P., and Harley J. 

      Until 1870 he lived on his farm. Then he removed to Knoxville, purchasing a residence on East Main Street, where he lived until his death, Nov. 5, 1878.

      Captain Charles was County Surveyor for four years, and Supervisor of Knox Township for thirteen years. Coming to Knox County with almost nothing, through his sound judgment and shrewd financial ability he was able to achieve pronounced success. He was thoroughly honest and upright, and made hosts of warm friends.

Clay, Hiland Henry, son of John L. and Louisa M. (Balch) Clay, was born in Chester, Vermont, Jan. 3, 1838.

      His paternal grandfather was Timothy Clay, who was born in MA. His paternal grandmother was Rhoda Lawson, also a native of MA. His maternal great-grandfather was Hart Balch, who was born in Boston. His maternal great grandmother’s maiden name was Betsey Green. His maternal grandfather was Joel Balch, a native of N. H., and his maternal grandmother was Betsey Stevens.

      John L. Clay, the father, came to Knox County in 1837. He bought four hundred and eighty acres of land in Galesburg Township, a part of which has always been known as the “Clay” homestead. His traveling companions were Adnah Williams, who founded the “Williams Nursery” on West Main Street, and Stephen Fields. Both Williams and Fields bought a tract of land. After making their investments and examining this section of country thoroughly with a view to future settlement, they all returned to Vermont. 

      In 1840, Mr. Clay moved to Illinois with his family, which consisted of his wife and four children: Alonzo C., William L., Warren W., and Hiland H. They lived in Galesburg, then a small village, nearly one year, until a house was built on the land which he had already purchased. This land was all prairie, very fertile, and became one of the best farms in Knox County. Here Mr. Clay lived until he died, reared his family, and by his industry became a man of wealth and standing. He was charitable and kind, a good neighbor and a fond father. He was liberal minded, a thorough-going democrat, and was called to fill several local offices, such as Assessor and Supervisor.

      Mr. Clay married into a very superior family intellectually. His wife’s maiden name was Louisa M. Balch, who was born in Andover, Vermont. Her brother, Dr. William S. Blach, was a Universalist clergyman, and one of the greatest orators and debaters in the denomination to which he belonged. Mrs. Clay was a strong, intellectual woman. She had a versatile mind, was well informed, and always manifested true, motherly instincts in her family. Her neighbors gave her the name of being a kind hearted woman, ministering to the sick and needy as circumstances seemed to require.

      Major H. H. Clay inherited some of the characteristics and mental qualities of his mother. He was educated in the common schools, finishing with a short course in Lombard University. He is thoroughly posted in the events of the day, and has been a prominent citizen in the community in which he has lived ever since he has arrived at manhood. He was raised on the farm and farming has been his occupation through life. His homestead embraces four hundred and twenty acres of most excellent land, and he is regarded as one of the best practical farmers of Knox County. During the Civil War, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Second Regiment Illinois Volunteers, and remained in service until its close. He participated in many hard fought battles, such as Reseca, New Hope Church, Peachtree Creek, and siege of Atlanta. On entering the army he was chosen First Lieutenant of his company, and within four months thereafter, was commissioned as Captain. In Dec. 1864, he rose to the rank of Major, and commanded his Regiment until the close of the war.

      As a soldier, Major Clay was a good disciplinarian, prompt and intelligent, and always won the respect and confidence of his command. His regiment saw the most active service after May 1, 1864. They were engaged in battle in the siege of Chattanooga and Atlanta nearly one hundred days. They remained in this vicinity until Nov. 15 when they entered the great army under General Sherman in that ever memorable “march to the Sea”. Major Clay’s regiment participated in the Grand March in Washington and was mustered out June 6, 1865, disbanding in Chicago.

      As a man and citizen, Major Clay has had an honorable career. He is a man of strict integrity, sound judgment, and has a well stored mind. He is not fastidious or squeamish, or burdened with the conventionalities of life. He goes straight forward to his labors and duty and leaves to others the freedom he himself enjoys. He is broad in his views, liberal in his dealings, and charitable toward all. In politics Mr. Clay is a consistent and unswerving democrat. All his life he has been identified with that party. He has held several township offices. In 1877 he was elected Supervisor, which office he filled most acceptably.

      Major Clay was married Oct. 14, 1878 to Jennie E. Clay, daughter of James and Charlotte T. (Orcutt) Clay, residents of Gaysville, Vermont.

      To them were born six children: Fred C., John L., Walter T., Irving H., Marion and Roberts M. Foxie's Note: descendants still owns & lives in the original Clay farm north and west of Galesburg, IL.

Clearwater, Abraham S., Farmer; Ontario Township; born May 3, 1818, in Montgomery Co, N.Y.; educated in New York State. His father, Jacob Clearwater, born in New York, was of German descent, while his mother, Esther (Shealy), also born in New York, was of Scotch descent.

      April 13, 1856, Abraham S. Clearwater was married to Margaret Jane McGregor in Ontario Township. Two children were born to them: Clark A; and Carrie L, wife of Charles Moore. Margaret Jane McGregor was born in Matilda, Canada; she was the daughter of John and Jane (Wood) McGregor, who were natives of Canada; they were of Scotch descent. 

      Abraham S. Clearwater came to Knox County in the fall of 1843, and bought eighty acres of land in Section 30, which he converted into one of the best farms in the township. Later he added one hundred and three acres in Section 29, besides timber land in Rio. A farmer all his life, his only official work was in some local offices. His word was as good as his note. He was a man of sterling traits of character, a good husband and father, of quiet disposition, and ever willing to aid a neighbor.

      He united with the Baptist Church in 1837. In politics he was a republican. He died April 29, 1898.

Cole, Fred G., Farmer, Truro Township; born in Peoria Co, IL. Aug. 8, 1863; educated at French Grove. His father, William F. Cole, was born in Pittsburg, PA.; his mother, Mary Ann (Cutter) Cole was born in Richland Co, OH. His paternal grandfather, John Cole, was born in England; his maternal grandparents were Isaac Cutter and Sarah Metcalf, the latter was born in Richland Co, OH.

      Feb. 13, 1885, Mr. F. G. Cole was married to Ettie M. Tucker, who was born Aug. 16, 1865, a daughter of V. L. and Jane Tucker. They had one child, Mabel J., born Nov. 17, 1888. 

      Mr. Cole lived for about five years in Kansas. He now owns a farm south of Williamsfield. He is a member of the Odd Fellows Lodge, No. 779. In politics he is a republican.

Cole, I. Frank, Farmer, Truro Township; born Dec. 21, 1851, in Brimfield Township, Peoria Co, IL; educated in the common schools. His father, William F. Cole, was born in Pittsburg, PA, July 18, 1818 and died Dec. 23, 1883. His mother, Mary Ann (Cutter) Cole, was born in Richland Co., OH, July 29, 1829, and died March 15, 1894. His paternal grandparents, John and Jane (Bates) Cole, were born in England. His maternal grandfather was Isaac Cutter, and his maternal grandmother, Sarah (Metcalf), who was born in Richland Co, OH.

      Jan. 11, 1877 he married, in Elba Township, Martha Ann, daughter of J. C. and Margaret (King) Nelson; she was born Sept. 14, 1854. Of this union there were eight children: John, born Nov. 27, 1877, died in infancy; Mary Ann, born Mar. 4, 1879; Maud, born Nov. 18, 1880; Lemuel J., born Feb. 11, 1884; Marge, born May 6, 1886; Sarah, born May 13, 1888, died Feb. 25, 1889; Martha N., born Sept. 16, 1889; and Frank Harrison, born Aug. 23, 1891. 

      Mrs. Cole’s father was born in Altoona, Pennsylvania in 1816 and died in 1897; her mother was born in Richland Co, OH. In 1819 and died June 19, 1897. 

      Mr. Cole is a charter member of the Modern Woodmen of America, and has held offices in one of these lodges, in one of which he is a Clerk. He has served as School Trustee one term. He began his education in a log school-house of ancient date. In politics he is a republican.

Coleman, James, Farmer; Victoria Township, born Dec. 27, 1830 in Mercer Co, PA. His father, Samuel Coleman, came to Victoria Township in 1855, and died in 1875; his mother came from Ireland. He was educated in the common schools. 

      Mr. Coleman was thrice married. His first wife died in Pennsylvania; his second in Illinois; he married as his third wife Eliza Kane of Victoria.

      Mr. Coleman came with his father from Pennsylvania, and located on a farm near him. He finally moved to the homestead where he now lives. He has been School Director for twenty-one years. His children are: Lincoln, John, William, Clyde, Francis J., Lottie, Ada F., and Susie B.

Collinson, John Spare, was born in Luzerne Co, PA., Jan. 28, 1850, the son of Charles and Catharine A. (Spare) Collinson, the father was a native of Yorkshire, England, born May 14, 1826, died Jan. 17, 1889, at the age of 62. The mother was born in Luzerne Co., Aug. 18, 1824, and died Mar. 27, 1899. His paternal grandparents, Thomas and Hannah (Codlin) Collinson, were natives of Yorkshire; his maternal grandparents, John and Catharine (Cline) Spare, were born in Pennsylvania, and were of Dutch descent.

      Mr. Collinson’s parents were married in Wilkesbarre, PA, July 18, 1847, and came to Knox Co. Oct. 15, 1852, the trip requiring thirty-eight days. They settled in Lynn Township, where they bought two hundred acres of land, which they improved and enlarged. They were industrious and prosperous, and highly respected in the community. They were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The father was a democrat, and held local offices. They had eleven children, ten of whom are now living, six sons and four daughters, all of whom reside near the old homestead, excepting one son and one daughter. There were fifty-three grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren.

      Mr. John S. Collinson was raised on the old homestead, and received his education in the common schools. Jan. 1, 1872, he married Mary E. Carver, at the home of the bride’s parents in Lynn Township: seven children were born to them: Nora A., born Aug. 21, 1873, died Mar. 7, 1887; Dennis A., born July 20, 1875; Katie R. born Mar, 25, 1879, died Sept. 13, 1895; Wiley A., born Aug. 8, 1882; Judge T., born July 31, 1884, died Mar. 3, 1886; Cora S., born Aug 5, 1886; and Grove C. , born July 26, 1888, died Dec. 3, 1889. Dennis, Wiley, and Cora are at the old home with their parents.

      Mrs. Collinson, one of eleven children, was born Oct. 13, 1852, and is the daughter of Thomas and Rebecca (Cameron) Craven, who came from Carbondale, Luzerne Co, PA, and settled in Lynn Township in 1856. They purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land and afterward bought one hundred and sixty acres additional on Section 28. They now reside in Altona, Walnut Grove Township. They are members of the Presbyterian Church.

      Mr. Collinson has been very successful. He has a farm of three hundred acres in Lynn Township, and eighty acres in Victoria Township. He is a breeder of fine stock, and is one of the largest hog raisers in Knox County. He is one of the directors of the Knox County Fire Insurance Company, of Knoxville. He and his son, Dennis A., are members of the I.O.O. F., Lodge No. 511, Altona. Mrs. Collinson is a member of the Order of Rebeccas. He is a democrat in politics and has been School Director for a number of years.

Conner, James H., Knoxville; Retired Farmer; born in Franklin Co, OH., Aug. 29, 1841; educated in the common schools. His parents were Benjamin T. and Ellen L. (Stephenson) Conner. The latter was a native of Ohio. His ancestry was Dutch, German, Irish, French, and English. 

      Mr. Conner came to Knox County in 1843. Aug. 27, 1862 he enlisted in Company F. Eight-sixth Illinois Volunteers, and was honorably discharged June 6, 1865. 

      March 22, 1866, in Gilson, he was married to Esther Rambo, daughter of Allen T. and Elizabeth (Shelton) Rambo. Mr. Rambo was a native of Indiana, and was a gunsmith by trade. Mr. and Mrs. Rambo had eleven children: Julius R., John S., Esther, Tabitha, Marian, Reuben, Nancy K., Francis M., Thomas B., Judson, and an infant daughter. Mr. Rambo died in April 1894, his wife April 3, 1891. 

      Mr. and Mrs. Conner have had eight children: Laura E., Dora E., Ida M., Lurena E., J. Herbert, B. Franklin, L. Gertrude, and Bessie B. B. Franklin died in his fifth year. Laura E. married Lincoln Swigart; they have two children: Harry and Charles. Dora E. married John Wasson; they have one son, Franklin D. 

      Mr. Conner is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he is a republican.

Conrad, Carl, Farmer; Rio Township; born Mar 15, 1848, in Brengetosta, Sweden. His parents were Carl John and Anna Louisa (Elstedt) Holt of Sweden; his paternal grandfather was Peter Elstedt. 

      Mr. Conrad married Charlotte Granberg, Feb. 22, 1872, in Woodhull. Nine children have been born to them: Alfred Benjamin, David Amanuel, Gilbert Henry, Amanda Wilhelmina, Emily Augusta, Rose Eilinda, Christian Lenne, Clara Sophia, and Anna Charlotte. Clara S. died Nov. 28, 1877 and Anna C. died Dec. 14, 1877. 

      Mr. Conrad is a republican. He is a member of the Lutheran Church.

Cooke, John, a native of Pennsylvania, was born in Fayette County, Dec. 11, 1834. His father was Thomas Cooke, who was born in the same county April 3, 1813. He is still living very near the place of his birth, at the advanced age of 86. His occupation at first, was that of a miller; afterwards, a farmer. He was a sturdy yeoman and earned a competence for himself and family by almost unremitting toil. In 1848 he made an extensive trip through the Mississippi valley when the means of conveyance and place of entertainment were very unlike those of the present day. He passed down the Ohio River, up the Mississippi to Burlington, thence to Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, thence eastward to Macomb, Canton, Peoria, and finally to his Pennsylvania home where he has lived in retirement these many years.

      His mother was Eliza Frazer, who was born in Franklin Township, PA, June 2, 1812. She was the daughter of Luke and Elizabeth Frazer, and was a most estimable woman. She died in Knox Co, IL. at the early age of 64.

      The ancestry of this branch of the Cooke family in this country is not far to trace. Some of them were among the early settlers of Pennsylvania, and belonged to the Quaker fraternity. One somewhat peculiar and distinguishing characteristic ran along the succeeding generations of this family which is worthy of mention. They had a “passion” for two Biblical names—Thomas and John. Away back in early times, the family is represented by Thomas Cooke—a substantial Quaker. Then comes a John Cooke, who is followed by a Thomas, then by a John, and so on, even down to the latest generation.

      John Cooke, the subject of this sketch, had no special advantages for an education beyond the common schools of his native town. He made a good use of his time and became well versed in the practical branches then taught. His school days were intermingled with his home duties and labors in a mill and on a farm. After arriving to manhood, he pursued a similar occupation, until he came to Illinois in 1868. He first engaged in farming near Knoxville, which occupation he followed for twenty-four years. In 1892, the Board of Supervisors of Knox County elected him Superintendent of the Almshouse, which position he still holds. The wisdom of this selection is shown in the air of neatness and general good management that seem to pervade every department.

      As a citizen, Mr. Cooke needs no encomium. By his own exertions, he has earned his way in the world without assistance from either friends or relatives. It is by attending strictly to the duties and obligations of life that he has acquired a competence and a name for honesty and integrity. He is considerate in action and has no disposition to antagonize those with whom he comes in contact. He is not forward in opinion, but always has a reserved force in his judgments. In religion he belongs to the Christian Church, having joined in Fayette City, PA., in 1875. In politics he is a republican.

      He is a member of Pacific Lodge, No 66, A. F. and A. M., and of the A. O. U. W. of Knoxville No. 126.

      Mr. Cooke was married in Fayette County, PA., Oct. 2, 1856 to Martha M. Torrey.

Cowell, J. C., Farmer; Elba Township; born Dec. 25, 1860 in Henry Co., IL; his father, Thomas Cowell, was born in the Isle of Man, July 14, 1827; his mother, Olive (Kimball) Cowell, was born in Knox Co., July 5, 1837. His grandparents were John and Susan (Corlet) Cowell, natives of the Isle of Man. He was educated in the common schools. 

      Mr. Cowell was married in Peoria Feb. 19, 1885 to Nettie Slocum. She was born in Peoria Co., Sept 26, 1861, and is the daughter of John C. and Margaret Slocum, who live in Peoria County. 

      The children of Mr. and Mrs. Cowell are: Raymond, born Mar. 29, 1886; Ethel Pearl, born April 8, 1888; Ralph Earl, born June 16, 1890. 

      The father of Mr. Cowell came to America in 1846, and settled on Section 5, Elba Township, where he has a farm of one hundred and twenty acres. 

      Mr. Cowell owns a good farm of one hundred and five acres on Section 5, and raises stock and good horses. He is a democrat.

Cox, Levi J. Farmer; Ontario Township, where he was born on Section 21, Jan.1, 1849; educated in Knox County. His parents, James R. and Emma (Pittard) Cox, were born in Somerton, Somersetshire, England, where they were married. They came to the United States in 1848, with his grandfather, Joseph Cox, who was also born at Somerton, but died in Kansas at the age of 98. The latter’s wife, Sarah Davis, as well as Emma Pittard and her father, were natives of Somerset. James R. Cox was born in 1815 and died May 13, 1897, at the home of Levi J. 

      Levi J. Cox was reared on a farm, and at twenty-five years of age he had only three hundred dollars. He bought forty acres of land on Section 16 for two thousand dollars, upon which he made a small payment. By industry and economy he soon paid for his farm, and now owns four hundred and fifty-nine acres of land, one hundred and twenty acres of which he inherited from his father. 

      September 3, 1873, he was married to Elizabeth West in Galesburg. They have two children: Arthur B. and Stewart J. 

      Mrs. Cox’s father was Samuel West, a farmer of Green Co, PA. He moved to Morgan Co, OH., and died there when 78 years old. His wife, Catherine Anderson, was of Scotch descent. She died in Ohio, and her daughter came to Illinois with her brother, Isaac P. West, and lived in Woodhull, Henry County, until her marriage.

      Samuel West’s father, John, was kidnapped in Glasgow, Scotland, before the Revolution, and brought to the colonies, where he was sold to a Quaker near New York. He enlisted in the Colonial Army, hoping to come across the sea captain who had sold him. He settled in Green Co, PA. where he died.

      Levi J. Cox is an A. F. and A. M., Oneida Lodge, No 337. In politics he is independent.

Coziahr, Wilson, Farmer; Rio Township; born July 9, 1846, Ontario Township, Knox Co, IL.; educated in the common schools. His parents were Ludwick and Christian (Brown) Coziahr; his paternal grandparents were William and Susanna (George) Coziahr, and his maternal grandparents were Joe and Lydia (Harmous) Brown, of North Carolina; his great-grandfathers were Ludwick Coziahr and Abel Brown. 

      Mr. Wilson Coziahr was married to Emma Bowers in Ontario Township, Oct. 2, 1873. There were ten children, five sons and five daughters; one son is deceased. 

      Mr. Ludwick Coziahr came with his wife and three children to Illinois in 1841, and settled in Henderson Township, then removed to Ontario Township, and later to Rio Township, where Mrs. Coziahr died April 15, 1899, at the age of 81 years. 

      Mr. Wilson Coziahr is a Protestant. In politics, he is a democrat, and has served for a time as Road Commissioner.

Craig, Alfred M., is a man of characteristic personality. His look and his general bearing indicate decision of character and strong intellectual endowments. He is a native of Illinois, and was born in Paris, Edgar County, Jan. 15, 1831. His father was David Craig, a native of Pennsylvania, and his mother’s maiden name was Minta Ramey.

      David Craig was of Irish descent and was born in Philadelphia. His parents came from the northern part of Ireland. David, when a young man removed to Kentucky; but being unwilling to live in a slave State, he came to Illinois in 1830. After remaining a short time in Edgar County, he finally settled in Fulton County, where Justice A. M. Craig was born.

      Justice Craig’s father was a farmer, and it was on the farm that the lad was brought up. His early advantages for schooling were such as are incident to a new country and the life of a farmer boy. He attended school in winter, and worked on the farm in summer, until he entered upon a course of study at Knox College. In the fall of 1848, he became a member of the preparatory class, and was admitted to the freshman class in June 1849. With distinguished honor, he graduated in June 1853. After graduation, there was no halting or indecision as to his future course. Immediately he entered the law office of William C. Goudy of Lewiston, IL., and after one year’s study, was admitted to practice in all the courts of Illinois. In the fall of 1854, he opened an office in Knoxville, which was then the county seat of Knox County. By his perseverance and determination, he soon built up a large and lucrative practice in Knox and the adjoining counties. His skill and erudition in law are exemplified in the fact that he rarely, if ever, lost a case at court. He continued his practice until June 1873, when he was elected Justice of the Supreme Court of Illinois.

      Justice Craig has richly earned the commendations and confidence of his fellow citizens. His knowledge of law and his fidelity in practice have opened to him places of honor and preferment. In 1856, he was appointed States Attorney by Governor Mattison for the Circuit, composed of the counties of Mercer, Henderson, Warren, Knox, and Fulton. The appointment was for the unexpired term of one year, caused by the resignation of William C. Goudy. In November 1861, he was elected County Judge of Knox County and assisted in forming the present constitution of the State.

      Justice Craig has lived a successful life. He started in the world a poor boy and by his good judgment and great business sagacity, has become the owner of great possessions. He is President of the Bank of Galesburg, of which he is the largest stockholder, and his landed estates cover rich and extensive fields of territory. As a lawyer, he is profound and a great judge. For the correctness and justness of his decisions, his fame is unsurpassed. He is not an observer of conventionalities, and is no servile worshiper of court etiquette. He is plain in his manner, kind, social, and generous to his friends. He is a student of human nature, and has won distinction more by his practical common sense than by his knowledge of Latin or Greek. He has served his county and his State faithfully and well, and is entitled to the plaudits of all.

      Justice Craig was married in Aug. 1857 to Elizabeth P. Harvey, daughter of C.K. Harvey, who was a lawyer of eminent ability. Mr. Harvey was born and educated in the State of Vermont. He came to Knox County at an early day, and built up a large practice in Knox and adjoining counties. He represented Knox County in the Constitutional Convention of 1847. He died at Knoxville in 1848, at the age of thirty-three.

      Justice and Mrs. Craig have had four children, two now living: Dr. A. H., a druggist, and Captain Charles C., a lawyer, both living in this city.

Cramer, Benjamin, Farmer; Chestnut Township; born in Ohio, Jan. 10, 1839; educated in the common schools. His parents, William and Sarah (Shutes) Cramer, were natives of Ohio, and were born respectively Jan. 25, 1804 and Sept. 13, 1805, and died in 1875 and 1872. They were married Sept. 1, 1824. His maternal grandmother was Sarah Shutes, and his paternal grandfather was Adams Cramer. 

      Mr. Cramer was married to Louisa Haynes in November 1860, in Chestnut Township. They had four children: A. H., born Dec. 8, 1861; George E., born Nov. 22, 1863; Grace C., born Nov 5, 1869; and Asa, born Mar 13, 1877. 

      Mrs. Cramer was born in Orange Township, Knox Co. IL, Jan 30, 1842. She was the daughter of Herman L. and Gerilla Haynes, who died in Orange Township. 

      Mr. Cramer is a republican and has been Assessor for a number of terms: Road Commissioner two terms, and School Director for twenty years. He has been a dealer in grain and live-stock as well as a farmer. His farm of two hundred and fifteen acres is situated two and one-half miles southeast of DeLong on Sections 1, 3, 4, 9, and 10. 

      Mr. Cramer and his wife belong to the Methodist Church.

Crane, Henry Wetmore, son of James W. and Cornelia L. (Wetmore) Crane, was born in Ontario Township, Knox County, IL. July 7, 1859. The family is of English descent, their history in this country dating back to early times in New England. The parents of James W. Crane were born in CT., and settled, immediately after their marriage, in Oneida Co, N.Y. James W. was the fourth child and second son in a family of six children. The family came to Ontario Township in June 1837, and settled on an unbroken prairie, where they made a farm, and where the father of James W. died in 1848, and the mother in 1854. 

      The parents of Cornelia L. Wetmore lived and died in New York State, where her father was a successful merchant. She came to Knox County about two years before her marriage.

      Henry W. Crane was the oldest son, and was educated in the Oneida High School, and in Knox College, Galesburg. He was married in Henry Co., IL. Sept. 25, 1882 to Carrie Wood Stickney. They have three children: Zina S., Mary Ann, and James Henry. 

      Mrs. Crane’s parents were Henry and Mary (Wood) Stickney, old residents of Henry County, now deceased. Mrs. Crane was born in Henry County, and received her education in Knox College, Galesburg.

      Mr. Crane was one of the organizers of the Oneida State Bank, and has ever since been on its Board of Directors and also a member of the Finance Committee; he is also a farmer, or, more especially, a manager of farms, as he rents his own farm and that of his wife, and resides in Oneida, of which place he has been a prominent citizen since 1888. He keeps his land in a high state of cultivation by rotation of crops, having always at least one-third of the area in pasture, or meadow, and taking a share of the crop instead of a money rent, has proved for him an element of success.

      In politics Mr. Crane is independent. He has been a member of the Board of Education, an Alderman and Mayor, to which office he was elected in 1895, and which, by re-election, he has held to the present time. He is a member of the Baptist Church of Ontario, and is a thorough-going, progressive, public spirited citizen.

Crane, James Wilson, son of Zina and Harriet (Hall) Crane, was born in Marcy, Oneida County, April 20, 1829. His parents were born in Durham, CT., and died in Knox County, the father aged 63 and the mother 58 years. His paternal grandparents were Frederick and Anna (Babcock) Crane, and on his mother’s side, Luther and Harriet Hall, all of whom were born in Connecticut.

      Zina Crane, before coming west with his family in June 1837, purchased three hundred and twenty acres of unbroken prairie land in Knox County, to which he added one hundred and sixty acres of timber land. In coming to Knox County he followed the example of Rev. George W. Gale, of Oneida County, and one of the founders of Galesburg. He assisted in the organization of Ontario Township, and was interested in educational matters, and with Charles F. Camp, now deceased, built the first school house near Ontario Corners. In politics he was a whig.

      James W. Crane came with his father to Knox County and became a farmer and stock-raiser. He attended the common schools for a short time, but received the principal part of his education by his own efforts. He was married in Ontario Township May 29, 1854, to Cornelia L. Wetmore, daughter of Jesse and Louise (Holmes) Wetmore. She was born in Oneida Co., N. Y., Sept. 5, 1833. They have three children: Henry W., now living in Oneida; Frank, a resident of Cummings, Traill Co, N.D.; and Carl S., now living at the old homestead.

      In early times Mr. Crane drove his stock to Galena, thirty or forty days being required to make the trip. He at one time added one hundred and fifty turkeys to his drove of hogs which were killed and sold to the miners. It is said that Mr. Crane is the oldest resident of Ontario Township; he is certainly one of the best known and most influential farmers in Knox County. He has a farm of two hundred and forty acres of choice land, a fine residence, and convenient farm buildings. He has been very successful in his business, and formerly had large land interests in North Dakota, which he sold to his son Frank, who resides in that State.

      In politics, Mr. Crane is independent. He is an attendant of the Unitarian Church. He has traveled extensively in the United States, is broad and liberal in his views, and is greatly respected and honored wherever he is known.

Cronoble, George W., Farmer; Knox Township; born in Center Co, PA., Aug. 22, 1840; educated in Ohio. His parents, Jacob and Elizabeth (Houseman) Cronoble, and his paternal grandfather, Adam Cronoble, were natives of Pennsylvania. The ancestry of the family is German. 

      Mr. Cronoble was married to Sarah L. Elkins July 9, 1865, in Kentucky. They have six children: William H., Oscar C., Jennie M., John A., G. Edward and Artie B. William H. is a farmer, and married Susie Mooney; they have three children: Bernice, Russell, and Gale. Jennie M. married Charles H. Taylor.

      Aug. 2, 1862, Mr. Cronoble enlisted in Company F, Eighty-third Regiment Illinois Volunteers, and was honorably discharged June 26, 1865. He is a member of G. W. Trafton Post, No. 239, of Knoxville, Grand Army of the Republic, Department of Illinois.

      In religion Mr. Cronoble belongs to the United Brethren. In politics he is a republican.

Cummings, Leonard B., Farmer; Walnut Grove Township; born June 28, 1823, in Knox Co, Maine. He is the son of Suel and Sophia Cummings, and grandson of Richard Cummings, who was of Scotch descent. He was educated in the common schools; came to Knox Co., IL. in 1853.

      He was married in Copley Township, July 16, 1854, to Celinda, daughter of A. W. and M. A. Bulkeley. To them were born eleven children, four of whom are now living: Lenora C., wife of O. C. Housel, Galesburg, IL.; John A., Walnut Grove Township; Aurelia C., wife of Theodore Cochen, Jr., Brooklyn, N.Y.; and Grace C., wife of F. S. Stephenson, Oneida, IL.