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Biographies from Albert J. Perry's 1912 History of Knox Co., IL All contributions most welcome Thanky you!!!
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COLONEL CLARK E.
CARR.--5 Galesburg is proud, as well it may be, of the record of Colonel Clark E. Carr, now one of the venerable and honored residents of the city. His interests and activities, however, have been so broad and varied as to make him a man of national character, for he has sustained many important relations to the public service and in other associations has been found faultless in honor, fearless in conduct and stainless in reputation. He was born in the town of Boston, Erie county, New York, May 20, 1836, and is descended from a family of English origin, the records of which are traced back to the time of the Norman Conquest. William Carr was born in London, England, June 17, 1597, and was married May 16, 1619, to Susan Rothschild, in London. They came to America in the fall of 1621 as passengers on the ship Fortune, Captain Roger Williams commanding, and landed at Plymouth, Massachusetts, on the 7th of November. For many generations the branch of the family of which Colonel Carr is a representative remained in New England. His paternal grandfather was the Rev. Clark Carr, who was born at East Greenwich, Rhode Island, where one of his ancestors, Caleb Carr, had once served as colonial governor. The Rev. Clark Carr was a Baptist minister who preached for fifty years in western New York, becoming a pioneer of that section of the state. He married Patty Merwin and lived to be eighty years of age, while his wife reached the advanced age of almost ninety years. They were the parents of a son and two daughters: Clark M.; Laura, who became the wife of Ambrose Torrey; and Louisa, who married Willard Alger. Clark M. Carr, born in the Empire state, was reared in Erie county, New York, and having arrived at years of maturity he wedded Delia Torrey, a native of Connecticut and a daughter of Asa and Lydia (Roberts) Torrey. Her father was born in Weymouth, Massachusetts, and was of English descent. The mother of President Taft was a Torrey, closely related to Asa Torrey, Judge Alphonso Taft, the father of the president, having married Louisa Maria Torrey, a daughter of Samuel D. Torrey, of Millbury, Massachusetts. It was some years after the marriage of Clark M. Carr that he removed to the middle west, arriving in the spring of 1850 in Henry county, Illinois, where he lived for nearly two years, after which he established his home in Galesburg in the autumn of 1851. Clark M. Carr engaged in various lines of business but during his residence in Galesburg was largely occupied with the promotion and building of the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad. He died in this city in 1876 at the age of seventy-two years. His first wife, Mrs. Delia (Torrey) Carr, the mother of Colonel Carr, died in Erie county, New York, in 1839, when our subject was only three years of age, and in 1845 he married again, his second union being with Miss Fannie L. Yaw. There were four children by the first marriage: General Eugene A. Carr, now deceased; Colonel Byron O. Carr, living in Seattle, Washington; Rev. Dr. Horace M. Carr, of Parsons, Kansas; and Colonel Clark E. Carr, of this review. The children by the second marriage were: George P., now deceased; and Grace, the wife of J. C. Fahnestock, of Galesburg. The second wife died in 1888. Colonel Clark E. Carr was but thirteen years of age when the family removed westward to Illinois and was a lad of fifteen years when they left Henry county for Galesburg, where he has since made his home, having now resided in this city for six decades. He pursued his education in Knox Academy and Knox College, after which he returned to the east in preparation for a professional career and was graduated from the Albany, New York, Law School with the LL. B. degree. He has since been given the degree of doctor of laws and for many years following his admission to the bar in 1857 he remained in practice in Galesburg. In fact he was an active representative of the bar here for nearly forty-five years but for the past ten years has lived retired. His work in the courts became a matter of record and indicated his comprehensive knowledge of the law and his ability to clearly, forcefully and cogently present the points of his case and the principles and precedents applicable thereto. As previously indicated Colonel Carr has been prominently known in many public connections and at all times his life has been one of great serviceableness in the fields in which he has labored. He won his military title by service during the Civil war on the staff of Illinois' distinguished war governor, Richard Yates. He was also postmaster of Galesburg for twenty-four years, being first appointed to the office in 1861 by Abraham Lincoln, of whom he was a personal friend. In fact there are few men living in Illinois today who have had a wider acquaintance among the men of Illinois who have gained distinction and national honors and prominence. Colonel Carr has been a member of many commissions, becoming one of the original members of the Soldiers National Cemetery Association at Gettysburg, which established the cemetery there. He was present on the occasion when Abraham Lincoln inaugurated the cemetery and, seated near him on the stage, heard the president's matchless address, a full account of which Colonel Carr has given in his volume entitled "Lincoln at Gettysburg." Presidential appointment under Benjamin Harrison made him minister plenipotentiary and envoy extraordinary to Denmark from 1889 until 1893. In politics he has always been a zealous republican and of the great issues which divide the two parties, with their roots extending down to the very bedrock of the foundations of the republic, he has a true statesman's grasp. Well grounded in the political maxims of the schools, he has also studied the lessons of actual life, arriving at his conclusions as a result of what may be called his postgraduate studies in the school of affairs. On the 31st day of December, 1873, Colonel Carr was united in marriage to Miss Grace Mills, a daughter of Hon. Henry A. and Julia (Crosby) Mills, of Mt. Carroll, Illinois. Mr. Mills, the father of Mrs. Carr, was a son of Abram and Grace (DeBerard) Mills, the latter of French descent while the former was a native of New York, well known as a minister of the Presbyterian church. The maternal grandfather of Mrs. Carr was Stephen Crosby, who was born in Herkimer county, New York, and was a farmer and stock man. To Colonel and Mrs. Carr there were born two children: Clark Mills, who died in 1879 and for whom the Clark Mills Carr prize in Knox College is named; and Julia, who became the wife of Captain W. P. Jackson, of the Third Infantry of the United States Army, who is now on duty at Zamboango, in the Philippine islands. Captain and Mrs. Jackson have one child, Margaret. Colonel Carr is the honored president of the Illinois State Historical Society and also of the Knox County Historical Association and few men are so thoroughly informed concerning the leading events which have shaped the history of the state. His comprehensive knowledge of all such has been made the basis of his authorship of several most interesting volumes, including: The Illinois,- A Story of the Prairies; My Day and Generation; Lincoln at Gettysburg; The Postal Railway Service; and The Life of Stephen A. Douglas. When an individual has advanced far on life's journey it is frequently said of him: "He is now living quietly at his home, etc." It is doubtful if this could ever be said of Colonel Carr. His has always been an active life and he still keeps in close connection with events that mark the trend of the times and is thoroughly informed on the questions of significant and vital interest to city, state and nation. He is continuously giving out of the rich store of his wisdom and experience for the benefit of others and thus his life remains a serviceable factor in the world's work. The people of Knox county, and especially the people of Galesburg, will be, interested in knowing how much they are indebted to Colonel Clark E. Carr for having in their midst the great transcontinental Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway line, which is shown by the following letters from Mr. William B. Strong, the president of that great system when the road was built to Chicago. The Partridge Farm, Beloit, Wisconsin, December 10, '97. My Dear Colonel Carr: Yours of November 3d came while I was in Boston visiting my daughter, otherwise, it would have had earlier attention. I was glad to hear from you and pleased to know of Mrs. Gaythes. We were sorry to have her sell her pretty home here and leave us. Wherever she may reside, she will have our best wishes. Touching the Santa Fe, Chicago line—your letter has brought it all up to me so clearly. It was as you say, my aim to have the shortest line between Chicago and Kansas City. The shortest line runs some miles south of Galesburg—Mr. Robinson, the chief engineer, urged the adoption of this line very strongly. Personally, I was anxious to have the road run through Galesburg. My former connection with the C. B. & Q. made me familiar with the place and its attractions for a railroad. The desire for the short line and Mr. Robinson's pressure for the line would have won the day if you had not come forward at the right moment and plead the cause of Galesburg. It was purely out of respect for you, that I sent Mr. Robinson to Galesburg to consider a line through Galesburg. At that very time, Mr. Robinson had orders to adopt the shorter line. The way you received Mr. Robinson and the arguments used by you and others, which were communicated to me in Boston, caused the company to make the proposition to build via Galesburg—provided the right of way through the city was given. This proposition was limited to a few days—I may say a few working hours—it was accomplished. Your faith, hope and courage carried it through. My knowledge of you made me lean on you in these Galesburg matters and I want to say to you now—as the president of the Atchison Company, at that time—that if it had not been for your efforts, the Santa Fe line would have gone through from Fort Madison to Streator and left Galesburg to one side. I believe—all things considered, that the best route was adopted. I wish to thank you for speaking so favorably of the line from Kansas City to Chicago and what you say about the whole system being disintegrated without it—I fully believe it. The Chicago terminals and the Galveston line—are the three great things about which I was roundly abused—and woefully misrepresented. Today they are considered of great conception—the rock of strength—and parties claim supreme credit for all these sayings, who actually knew nothing of their inception. Such is life. As I hear and read, I sometimes wonder if I ever had anything to do with the Atchison system. In my doubt, and I find when I went to that line in D. C. 1877, there were, all told, seven hundred and eighty-seven miles. When I left it in 1889, seven thousand miles and the average mortgage debt—was only fifteen thousand dollars per mile and stock less than twelve thousand dollars per mile. Pardon length. With all good wishes, yours sincerely, Wm. B. Strong. The Partridge Farm, Beloit, Wisconsin, January 6, '98. Dear Colonel Carr: Yours of the second inst. came safely. I thank you for it. Your letter I prize. I simply want to say I was amazed to know that anyone believed the Atchison line would have come to Galesburg anyway—regardless of local aid. I want to say to you in the most positive and unequivocal language that the location of the line rested with Mr. Robinson and myself. We agreed perfectly in the proposition made to Galesburg and in the limit of time for its acceptance or rejection. It was accepted the right day. I was in Boston and I wired Robinson positive instructions if the proposition was not perfected by the proper responsible parties to adopt the southern or more direct route. The aid granted by Galesburg secured the Atchison line, and without that, the road would have been built several miles south of Galesburg. Personally, I preferred to adopt the Galesburg line and there were influences against it which yielded on condition the local aid was given. I am pleased to know of Galesburg's prosperity. I hope it will continue. I am pleased to know you saw Geo. R. Peck. He is a jewel. We fought and bled together; he is no coward. God bless him. My Dear Colonel I wish you and yours a most Happy New Year and may it come full of good health and genuine prosperity to you and each one dear to you. Yours sincerely, Wm. B. Strong. HORATIO N. KEIGHTLEY. One of Knoxville's early citizens who gave his cooperation not only to the promotions of all municipal enterprises but also to the development of educational institutions was the late Horatio N. Keightley. He was a native of the state of New York, having been born in Cortland county, on the 25th of May, 1825, and there he was reared and educated. During his boyhood he attended the district schools in the vicinity of his home, supplementing the knowledge therein obtained by a course in the schools of Auburn, New York. Having decided to become a lawyer, upon the completion of his preliminary education he entered the office of William H. Seward, where he prepared for admission to the bar. In 1850, at the age of twenty-five years, he came to Knoxville and established an office, continuing to be actively engaged in practice here for over forty years. He was one of the well read and widely informed attorneys of the county, and was connected with many of the important litigations in its early history, having successfully plead many a cause in the old courthouse. A. man of high standards and upright principles, he became known as one who always conscientiously devoted himself to the protection of his clients' interests. In connection with his professional work Mr. Keightley was also interested in the grain business and agricultural pursuits. He owned two fine farms east of Knoxville that he cultivated for two years, making a specialty of raising hogs. Mr. Keightley married Miss Mary L. Ewing, who was born in Smithfield, Pennsylvania, on the 25th of January, 1831. They were married in this city, on the 25th of May, 1852, by the Rev. W. Y. Miller, and always made their • home here. Mrs. Keightley was a daughter of Alexander and Jane (Campbell) Ewing, the father a native of Uniontown and the mother of Somerset, Pennsylvania. The paternal grandfather, David Ewing, was a native of Ireland. He came to Knoxville in 1836 and with his brother, George, established a general store. Here both he and his wife passed away and were laid to rest in the cemetery in the vicinity of Knoxville. Grandmother Ewing's maiden name was Ruth Brown and she was a native of Maryland. The maternal grandfather was John Campbell, who emigrated from Scotland to the United States, first locating in Pennsylvania, but later becoming a resident of Ohio, where he engaged in farming until his death. Alexander Ewing, Mrs. Keightley's father, was one of the pioneer merchants of Knoxville, having opened a general store here in 1836, that he conducted for many years. He was one of the many who made the long and perilous journey across the prairies to California in 1849 m search of gold. Both he and his wife passed away in Knoxville, her demise occurring on September 26, 1866, and his, on the 2d of January, 1874. She was a member of the Episcopal church, in the faith of which denomination they reared their family. They were the parents of three children, Mrs. Keightley being the only one surviving. The others were as follows: Anna M., the wife of William M. Phillips of Galesburg; and John H., who in i860 married Cornelia Weeks, and the widow is now living in Eldorado, Kansas. Among the distinguished members of the Ewing family is to be named General Ewing, and Mrs. Keightley is also related to General Sherman. To Mr. and Mrs. Keightley were born eight children, of whom five are now living. Ida, who was born on February 4, 1857, married John G. Breese, a farmer near Caldwell, Kansas, and they have had six children: Henry, who is deceased; Agnes, the wife of Victor Larson; Bertha, who married Carl Stoner; and Charles, Horatio K. and Wilbur. Alice C. was born on the 20th of September, 1859, and died on the 1st of December, 1907. Alexander Ewing, born on September 15, 1861, married Mary McAuly and has three sons: Thomas Ewing, Charles Nelson and Alexander Elwood. He is a resident of Danville, Washington. Mary Ewing, born on January 5, 1864, is a trained nurse in Chicago and the widow of William Bradford, by whom she had two daughters: Helen and Dorothy. Martin Gay, of Wellington, Kansas, born on the 3d of September, 1866, married Sarah E. Butts and has four sons: George Martin, who is in the United States navy; Harry E.; Louis H.; and Albert Ray. The family always attended the Episcopal church, in which Mr. Keightley held membership as does also his widow. Fraternally he was a Mason and politically a republican, and at all times he took an active interest in affairs of the municipality, having served as justice of the peace and for several terms as mayor. Mr. Keightley always gave his assistance in promoting the development of the community along lines he deemed qualified to best serve the interests of its citizens. He was the first to start the subscription that brought to Knoxville St. Mary's school, an Episcopalian institution, originally known as Ewing University, so called from Mrs. Keightley's family. He was held in the highest esteem not only in Knoxville, where he had resided for so many years, but in the entire county, and his death, on the 7th of April, 1896, caused deep regret in the community. For several years prior to his demise he had been living retired, his failing health having necessitated his withdrawal from active life. He is survived by his widow, who has been a resident of Knoxville for seventy-five years, forty-nine of which have been spent on the old family homestead, where she is still living. Mrs. Keightley had an extensive acquaintance among the early pioneers of this section, whose names now figure prominently in the state's history. She well remembers Lincoln's early days and struggles and was present at an address he made from the balcony of the old Hebbard House, in 1858, and many are the interesting reminiscences she relates of those early days. JOHN VAN NESS STANDISH. John Van Ness Standish is a lineal descendant of Captain Miles Standish, of Pilgrim fame, and was born in Woodstock, Vermont, February 26, 1825. His father was John Winslow Standish, who was born in Pembroke, Massachusetts, July 19, 1785. He was a man of many virtues. He was kind, affectionate, trustful, and had a heart full of love for everyone. He possessed good natural powers of mind, and lived to his ninetieth year an exemplary and honorable life. His mother was Caroline Williams Myrick, who was born in Woodstock, Vermont, December 20, 1790. She was the daughter of Lieutenant Samuel Myrick, who served his country through the Revolutionary war. She was devoted to her family and friends, domestic in her home life, untiring in industry, frugal, discreet, intelligent, and her whole life of sacrifice and duty is stamped indelibly upon the memory of her children. The ancestry of the Standish family reaches back to a very early period in English history. In the thirteenth century, there were two branches to the family; one called the "Standish's of Standish," and the other the "Standish's of Duxbury Hall." Their location was near the village of Chorley, Lancashire. The first of the name was Thurston de Standish, who was living in 1222. He had a son Ralph, who had a son Hugh. In 1306, on account of differences in religious views, the estate was divided; Jordan Standish becoming the proprietor of Standish, and Hugh, of Duxbury Hall. In 1677, Sir Richard Standish occupied the possessions of Sir Frank Standish. Titled nobility came into the family in the following manner: Froissart relates in his chronicles that when Richard II and Watt Tyler met, the rebel was struck from his horse by William Walworth, and then John Standish, the king's squire, alighted, drew his sword, and thrust it through Watt Tyler's body. For this act he was knighted. The baronetcy, which was established in 1676, became extinct in 1812. The history of the Standish family in America begins with Miles Standish, the great Puritan captain, who was descended from the Standish's of Duxbury Hall. He was born about 1584 and died at Duxbury, Massachusetts, October 3, 1656. He inherited in a preeminent degree the military qualities of his ancestors. He was the Moses of his time and led the pilgrim band into the "Promised Land" of liberty. Without him, New England for a generation or two would have remained a wilderness and that little Plymouth colony would have become extinct. Miles Standish's first wife was Rose, a most beautiful woman. She died in about a month after landing at Plymouth. According to tradition, his second wife was Barbara, a sister to Rose. By this second marriage there were seven children. The eldest was Alexander, who built the cottage in 1666 now standing on the "Standish farm" at Duxbury. For his first wife, Alexander married Sarah, daughter of John Alden. His second wife was Desire (Sherman) Doty, by whom he had four children. Their eldest child was Thomas, who married Mary Carver. Thomas had six children, the third birth being a son whose name was Thomas, the great-grandfather of John Van Ness. This second Thomas married Marta Bisbee and had two sons, one of whom was named Hadley. Hadley married Abigail Gardner and became the father of eleven children. The third child was John Winslow, who married Caroline Williams Myrick:. They had six children, the fourth birth being John A^an Ness. John Van Ness Standish belongs to the sixth generation from the Pilgrim captain. He was not born in affluence, and consequently, has been obliged to depend upon his own exertions in the great contest of life. He received the rudiments of his education in the common schools of his native town. From these, he passed into private schools, in which he spent several terms. He next became a student for several years, in an academy at Lebanon, New Hampshire, which would vie in thoroughness and scholarship with many of the colleges of today. Having finished here the entire course of mathematics save the calculus, and being thoroughly prepared, he matriculated in Norwich University in 1844, and graduated as salutatorian of his class July 7, 1847. While in college, he was regarded as a most excellent scholar, and in mathematics, the leader of his class. To meet his expenses during' these years of study, he taught school winters, commencing at the age of sixteen, and worked on the farm summers. He made study a business, squandered no time, and had but little leisure for recreation or games. After leaving college, he taught a select school in Perkinsville, Vermont, and when this was closed, he became principal of a graded school in the same village. Not satisfied with the prospects in his native state, he resolved to seek his fortunes in the west. In the fall of 1850, he went to western New York and taught in the graded schools of Farmington, Bergen, Macedon, and Victor, until he was called to the professorship of mathematics and astronomy in Lombard University. Rev. P. R. Kendall, a classmate, was its president, and the letter of invitation sent by him to Dr. Standish contained the following: "You and I are to build a college. I want you to take charge while I collect money." And it may be said that Lombard University owes its existence to the labors of these two men. On October 22, 1854, Dr. Standish arrived in Galesburg, and on the following day he entered upon his duties as acting president, and professor of mathematics and astronomy. He was acting president for three years, and the institution prospered greatly under his management. From 1854 to 1892, a period of thirty-eight years, he held his professorship. Nor was he confined to his own department. For seven or eight years, he taught the natural sciences, and if any new branch of study was introduced, Dr. Standish was elected as the teacher. A professor said to him, "You have taught the whole college curriculum." Dr. Standish replied, "Not quite." Counting geometry, calculus, logic, Cicero, Virgil, and Livy, as distinct studies, he has taught over seventy—more perhaps than any other two professors in Galesburg. In 1892, he was elected president of Lombard University, resigning in June, 1895. For the first seven months, he- canvassed for funds, and raised by subscription forty-one thousand, five hundred dollars—a larger amount than was ever raised in so short a time by any other man working in the interest of the university. The catalogues will show that during his administration, the patronage gradually increased. Dr. Standish performed signal service for the college outside of his professorship. He planned the cabinet cases and, with the aid of Mrs. Standish, raised the money to pay for them. He raised the money and purchased the cabinet of corals. He obtained the Cowan collection. He secured the means to build the bookcases. He arranged and planned the shrubbery on the college campus. As another has said, "There is scarcely a place but that you see his hand." As a teacher, Dr. Standish had but few equals. He was original in his illustrations and methods, and cared little for the opinions of men as written in books. He was a law unto himself, and his teaching was neither by book nor by rote. He was clear, incisive, and never allowed the dullest student to pass from him without a full comprehension of the subject. Many of his pupils used to say, "I can carry away more of his instruction than that of any other teacher." Dr. Anson L. Clark, a graduate of Lombard University in 1858, a professor and president of Bennett Medical College in Chicago for more than a quarter of a century, and a member of the state board of health for as long a period, pays him the following tribute: "As a teacher, Professor Stan dish had few equals, no superiors. With the subject so completely in hand himself, it was always a wonder, how for the benefit of some dull pupil he could go over a mathematical demonstration again, again, and again, without the slightest appearance of impatience. And to those observing this conflict between light and darkness, it was especially pleasing to note the kindly light of interest and satisfaction which would pass over his countenance when at last he saw that he had won, and that the problem was comprehended. He made such victories a life-work and acknowledged no defeat." Rev. John R. Carpenter, whose pastorate is at Rockland, Ohio, and who graduated at the University in 1887, says: "Dr. Standish was an ideal instructor. He was a man of leading characteristics, original, positive in his convictions, clear-sighted, and always worked with a definite and good object before him. He was a growing teacher, always bringing forth some new view of the truth. Those who have been students of Dr. Standish are always grateful for the privilege of sitting at the feet of one of the best instructors that this country ever produced. He would carry his pupils up to the heights, and give them a view of the promised land just beyond. But when once on the heights, no true student ever came down to his old position. D. L. Braucher, a civil engineer and surveyor, and one of the best mathematicians ever connected with the university, gives his impressions in the following words: "Professor Standish was always thoughtful, dignified in his bearing, and anxious to make his pupils see the truth as viewed from foundation principles. Pie seemed more like a sympathetic companion than teacher, while we were delving for the hidden truths of higher mathematics. The more knotty the problem, the more persistent the labor, till victory perched on our banner, as she always did. Time has tinted those memories as delicately as the sunshine has painted the rainbow." As a scholar, Dr. Standish stands preeminent. lie is really an all-round man. Not only is he well versed in the lore of books and the teachings of the schools, but he has been a great student in the broad fields of the world. He is well posted in almost every department of science, literature and art. In criticism, he has but few equals. He excels in rhetoric and in grammatical construction in the use of words, and has been called by some • scholars a dictionary man. At the ministers' institutes, held in Chicago and other places, he was selected above all others as the critic for the entire sessions. In his labors and zeal for the advancement and improvement of the common schools, he has hardly been excelled by any one. lie has held teachers' institutes, and lectured all over the state—from Jackson and Macoupin counties on the north. He was chairman of the first meeting to establish graded schools in Galesburg, and attended other meetings held in their interest. From 1854 to 1880, he was a constant attendant at the Knox County Institute of Teachers, and was a leading member of the State Teachers' Association. The latter body, in 1859, elected him president. Dr. Standish has been a great traveler. In company with Mrs. Standish, he has visited the old world three times—in 1879, 1882-3, and in 1891-2. With the exception of Denmark and Portugal, he has visited every country of Europe. Egypt and the Holy Land, and Asia Minor, went to the North Cape within nineteen degrees of the North Pole, saw the midnight sun seven nights, and took a trip of a hundred miles out on the Sahara Desert. Both Dr. and .Mrs. Standish have gone abroad for study, as well as pleasure. In his own country, he has visited every state in the Union excepting the Carolinas. Both Dr. and Mrs. Standish are lovers of art. They have visited every large picture gallery in the world, and many small ones. They are conversant with the museums of Europe and have studied cathedrals and parks, wherever they have traveled. Egypt and Assyria, Greece and Rome, have been laid under contribution, and their treasures have been spread out before them. As a public-spirited man, Dr. Standish holds a conspicuous place among his fellow citizens. He has done much to improve the city, and has given more hours of labor without compensation than any other man in it. For more than thirty years, he has made his own grounds the most attractive in the city. Another said to him, "Your handiwork is seen all over Galesburg." He has an aesthetic nature, and is fond of mountain scenery, and beauty of landscape. He is a horticulturist, and for nearly ten years, was president of Knox County Agricultural Society. He was once elected a member of the board of education, and for many years, has been a director in the Second National Bank. As a man, Dr. Standish is kind, benevolent, and charitable, and will make sacrifices for the public good. He is open-hearted, and believes in honesty of purpose and intention. He has no use for double-minded men. In religion he is a Universalist. In politics, he is a republican. Dr. Standish was married, March 24, 1859, to Harriet Augusta Kendall, daughter of Francis and Rebecca (Stowe) Kendall. She was a teacher of painting, French and Italian in Lombard University for twelve years. H. AUGUSTA STANDISH. H. Augusta (Kendall) Standish was born in Phillipston, Massachusetts, March 19, 1823. She died in Galesburg, Illinois, September 17, 1911. Her parents were Francis and Rebecca (Stowe) Kendall, both of whom were natives of Phillipston. The Kendall family were a strong race, both mentally and physically. Their line of descent can be traced back to one of three brothers, who came from England to America about 1630, and settled near Boston. Intellectually speaking, the Stowe family were not, in any respect, inferior to the Kendall family. They were a broad-minded and sensible people and never violated rules of propriety in action. Before acting, they studied conditions and weighed results, so as to accomplish the most without wasting energies or expense. Such were the ruling characteristics of this Stowe family and such were their merits as recorded in the generations in which they lived. In a word, then, both of these families were the stuff out of which good republics are made. They hated anarchy and tyranny and loved freedom for freedom's sake. They believed in law for the lawless and in the largest liberty to those who were governed by the higher law. In truth, they knew no law but duty and right. It was these lofty ideals that made these families such worthy citizens. Mrs. Standish was well born. She lived a long and useful life, and died regretted by a large company of sincere friends. When she was but sixteen years old, she lost by death a loving mother. The management and care of the household of five persons fell upon her. For about five years she engaged herself in this domestic task, until failing health compelled a change. In the district school, Mrs. Standish's school days were happy ones. She was a thorough scholar, thorough in everything she undertook. In her studies, though the youngest, she led her class. Her ideals in education were often expressed by her in two maxims: "It is a sin to be ignorant;" "It does not hurt one to know." In her domestic experience of five years, she did not wholly neglect her studies. She improved every leisure moment and became a proficient in several of the sciences. But her educational acquirements in the district schools and the instruction she received from private teachers did not satisfy her ambition. She marked out her course and with an unwavering firmness pursued it. She left home and friends and entered as a student the seminary at Charlestown, now a part of Boston. It was here that she pursued the higher branches of learning and became a thorough scholar in French and Italian. It is here that her love for and ability in art were developed, and the many paintings in oil and water colors, which have for so many years adorned her home, were produced. In this seminary, she soon became a favorite. By reason of her earnestness in school work, her womanly character, and her high moral tone, she won the affection and confidence of both teacher and pupil. She next attended school in an academy at Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts. Here she remained a year or two, still pursuing the higher branches of learning. At this time there were no colleges for women in all our country, nor were they even thought of. The academy and seminary were the only institutions offered them to acquire a broader education. But it must be said that New England academies and seminaries of these early times were fully equal to many of the smaller colleges of today. Then young men and young women "went" to school instead of being "sent." Education then had its full meaning. At Shelburne Falls, Mrs. Standish bid farewell to seminaries and academies, as far as her schooling was concerned, and afterwards engaged in teaching— her life work. Her first experience as a teacher was in the district schools of her native state. Here she taught with great success. Her reputation as an instructor and disciplinarian was so spread abroad that her services were in constant demand, even at higher wages than other teachers were receiving. She next took a position in an academy in Townsend, Vermont, where she remained a year or more. Resigning her place in the academy, she accepted a similar position in a private school at Saratoga Springs, New York, where she remained until called to Lombard University, Galesburg, Illinois. She arrived in Galesburg, Tuesday, August 29, 1854, and took her position before her classes the following day. The institution then bore the name, "The Illinois Liberal Institute." Its charter gave it the power to confer degrees upon those students who had finished a certain prescribed course of study. Although the institution bore the name "Institute," it was a college to all intents and purposes. What was the character of the institution at this time? Considering this early period, it was "large," two hundred and thirty-three being enrolled at the end of that school year. The classes were composed mainly of students advanced in age and advanced in learning. Advanced Latin, advanced Greek, and the higher mathematics were pursued. There were classes in the differential and integral calculus, and students reading three languages, Latin, Greek and French, in the same term. The great body of the students were so anxious to learn, that they sometimes petitioned the faculty not to omit but to continue their recitations on certain holidays, which petitions were freely granted. To such an institution, to such a company of earnest students, Mrs. Standish was introduced, and of the ability with which she acquitted herself, there are hundreds of living witnesses. Mrs. Standish was elected to the professorship of French and Italian, and teacher of drawing and painting. Nor was she confined exclusively to this department. She also taught classes in English literature, history, and some of the mathematics. She was principal of the ladies' department, and had a large task in correcting their essays. She held her professorship for twelve years, resigning in June, 1866. During these early years, Lombard University was passing through her most critical period. She was carried through it by the sacrifices of faithful teachers and faithful students. It may be said truly that Mrs. Standish with others passed through fire and water to save the tottering college. Here was an institution of learning without a dollar in the treasury and with no prospect of getting one, with her chapel building in ashes, and with unsuitable recitation rooms scattered all over the city, some of them half a mile apart; and to add to this state of things, each teacher was paid his back salary at the end of the year in script of doubtful value. Nor were conditions improved on entering the new building in the fall of 1856. Here stood the present college building on the open prairie, far removed from any human habitation. It was unfinished. The walls of many of the rooms were naked, some had lath without plaster, and the outside walls of the rooms exposed to view the rough brick and mortar. There were no baseboards to the rooms and blackboards were not even thought of or planned. But the greatest discomfort was found in the incapacity of two small furnaces to heat the building. No room was heated, and the larger number had no heat at all from morning till night. In recitation, both teacher and pupil, were obliged to wear coats and shawls to protect themselves against the cold. This was the state of things until near Christmas time, when a vacation was ordered with a promise of new and better things. Nor was this the only trouble. During that winter this whole region of country was covered with ice, and then heavy rains came, forming rivers of water near the university, thereby cutting it off completely from the city. To meet the exigencies of the case, lady teachers and lady pupils were compelled to purchase and wear rubber boots in order to reach the university. Notwithstanding these trying times, it must be said that every teacher and every student did his duty. They shirked no task and omitted no lesson. They were at their posts until the day of vacation. Through all these trials, Mrs. Standish passed. She murmured not, nor complained. She saw the obstacles in her pathway, but like a pilgrim, she took her staff and marched on. Her task was before her, and she could not be turned aside. She knew and felt that success was born of self-sacrifice and self-determination, and success in whatever calling, though humble, gratified her ambition. It was the well done thing that received her encomiums. In all her life her motto was "Not how much, but how well." As a scholar, Mrs. Standish was more than ordinary. Indeed, she was broadly educated. She was a student all her life. She had an ambition and a desire to learn. If any topic was introduced in conversation of which she was ignorant, she immediately set herself the task of learning it, and that task was finished only when her lesson was learned thoroughly. As a botanist, she was one of the best in the country, having made that branch her favorite study for more than seventy years. She was a superior student in astronomy. She could bound all the visible constellations and call the principal stars by name. Nightly, she watched the planets in their course, and often exclaimed, "How wonderful are the works of the Great Creator!" In the different branches of art, she was almost supereminent. She was really the organizer of the first reading clubs in Galesburg. For twelve years, twice a week, she invited the ladies of the city to her home and discoursed to them on the beauties of the masterpieces in painting and the wonderful creations of Phidias, Michael Angelo, and Canova. Nor was architecture omitted. The Grecian temples, the basilicas of Italy, and the English cathedrals were pictured before them. When Mrs. Laura Bassett visited Europe in 1905, she wrote to Mrs. Standish, "It is over twenty years since I had the privilege of meeting at your home with several other ladies and learning of treasures of art and beauties of architecture. With the maps in Baedeker and plats of the picture galleries, you made it so plain that I always used to say that I felt sure that I could go about here without any trouble at all, and would recognize these different buildings—and so it is." Nor is this all. Mrs. Standish was a scholar in English literature and her correctness of speech was remarkable. Often she would pause and in thought search for a fitting word. It seems that she was born with golden words on her tongue. As a teacher, Mrs. Standish had but few equals. Her great faculty was in the development of the minds of her pupils. She saw that it was not knowledge the pupils needed, but the power to get knowledge. In her teaching, she was always logical and never diffuse. She never left in the pupil's mind a subject hazily or poorly understood. It was always her endeavor to bring out true manhood and true womanhood in her pupils. As a citizen, Mrs. Standish was well worthy of the title of public benefactor. She labored for others and not for herself. She believed in civic improvements and worked to make the city a better place to live in. All rubbish and unsightly things distressed her, and no one knows how much time she spent in beautifying the city. Her example and her work she has left behind her, which will be a profit to many. She was ever charitable and kind and a help to all who knew her. She loved the good, the beautiful, and the true, and never descended from the high plane of true womanhood. Mrs. Standish was united in marriage to John Van Ness Standish, a professor in Lombard University, March 24, 1859. The ceremony was performed in the college chapel by the Reverend Otis A. Skinner, D. D., who was then president of the university, a large number of students and friends being present. The golden wedding was celebrated in Pasadena, California, March 24, 1909. There was only "one" present who attended the original wedding, Mrs. A. M. H. Ellis, of Seattle, Washington, formerly of Chicago. In religion, Mrs. Standish was a Universalist, though she was brought up in the Congregationalist faith. She was far from being narrowly sectarian. She thought that good works and an upright life counted for more than blind belief. In politics, her sympathies were republican, and if she could have voted, her vote would have been cast on that side. In both religion and politics, she believed the higher law should prevail. REV. FRANCIS BAINES. Rev. Francis Baines, who is in charge of the parish of St. Patrick of Gales-burg, was born in Dudley, Worcestershire, England, on the 3d of December, 1874. The preliminary education of Father Baines was obtained at Rugby, after which he studied at Mount Wadhurst, Sussex and Monte Calvario, Italy. He subsequently went to Ratcliffe College, as an instructor in Latin, remaining there for two years. At the expiration of that period he engaged in mission work at Loughborough, Leicestershire, England, for a year, and in 1904 he came to this country as an assistant to Father Doubleday, of Galesburg. After serving in this capacity for four years he was appointed head of the parish, over which he has now presided for three years. He is the spiritual counselor of one hundred and thirty families and has under his supervision the following organizations: Sacred Heart Sodality, Children of Mary and the Altar Society. St. Patrick's is one of the popular parishes of the city. Father Baines is very popular not only in his parish but throughout the city, as he is a man of rare culture and scholarly instincts, whose well stored mind makes him a most delightful and entertaining conversationalist. He is progressive in his ideas and exercises a most powerful influence over all the members of his parish, who place a high valuation on his views on any subject, appreciating the fact that they are the result of careful and conscientious deliberation. LLOYD F. WERTMAN. Honored and respected by all, there is no man who occupies a more enviable position in business and financial circles in Galesburg than does Lloyd F. Wert-man, the president of the First National Bank. This is not due alone to the success he has achieved but also to the straightforward, honorable business methods he has ever followed, and his record indicates that success is not a matter of genius as held by some but is rather the outcome of clear judgment and unfaltering energy. He was born in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, November 7, 1845, and is one of the seven children of Elias and Mary (Kistler) Wertman. The former was a son of Daniel Wertman, a native of Pennsylvania and of German descent. He removed with his family to Lockport, New York, where he died when well advanced in years. To him and his wife were born a number of children, including Elias, Noah, Daniel, Emanuel, John, Jonathan and a daughter. Elias Wertman was also a native of the Keystone state and was there reared. Eventually he followed merchandising in Bloomsburg and Rohrsburg, Pennsylvania, and in the year 1864 removed westward to Illinois, settling that spring in Knox county, where he turned his attention to general agricultural pursuits. He followed farming in both Persifer and Elba townships, being for many years actively engaged in the work of tilling the soil. While in Pennsylvania he had wedded Mary Kistler, a native of that state, as was her father, who was of German lineage. He was a distiller and prominent farmer. The death of Elias Wertman occurred in Yates City when he was about seventy-eight years of age and his wife passed away several years before. They held membership in the German Lutheran church and were worthy Christian people. Of their seven children five reached years of maturity, two having died in infancy. Those who attained adult age were: Daniel, now deceased; Sarah, the widow of Spencer L. Finney, of Galesburg; Mary Ellen, the wife of Samuel Chester, of Creston, Iowa; Lloyd F.; and Martha J., the widow of James A. Wilson, of Galesburg. In his native town of Bloomsburg Lloyd F. Wertman spent his early youth and began his education, which was supplemented by further study in the public schools of Rohrsburg, Pennsylvania, and in the academy at Orangeville, that state. He was also for a year and a half a student in a missionary institute or college at Selinsgrove and when his education was completed he came to the middle west and turned his attention to farming, renting a tract of land adjoining his father's place. Subsequently he purchased his father's farm and remained thereon until 1878, when he removed to Yates City, Illinois, where he spent two years in a cooperative store. On the expiration of that period he formed a partnership with J. H. Nicholson and W. P. Parker for the establishment of a bank at Yates City. Their enterprise was known as the Farmers Bank and its doors were opened for business on the 1st of August, 1880, with Mr. Wertman as cashier. He filled that position for nine years and the success of the bank is attributable in large measure to his efforts and ability. He then sold out to Mr., Nicholson and came to Galesburg, accepting the cashier-ship in the Farmers & Mechanics Bank of this city, with which he was connected for six years, when he was elected vice president of the First National and after two years was elected to the presidency, so that he is now the chief executive officer of the bank, his guiding policy being such as commends the institution to the confidence and support of the public. In the conduct of banking interests he has ever adhered to the principle, that the banking institution that most carefully safeguards its business in order to protect its depositors, is the bank which most merits the public confidence. On January it, 1870, Mr. Wertman was married to Miss Isabella J. Oberholtzer, a native of Eugene, Knox county, Illinois, and a daughter of Henry and Martha (Tucker) Oberholtzer. The family is an old one here, having been established in pioneer times. Her father died from the effects of army experience, having been a soldier of the Civil war, and her mother passed away in Gilson when eighty-five years of age. To Mr. and Mrs. Wertman have been born five children: Elmer, who died in infancy: Mary, who is the wife of Arthur D. Steams, of Galesburg, and has four children, Philip, Helen, Frances and Virginia; Martha Leorah and Maude, who are living at home; and Norma B., who is the wife of Guy B. Hardy, an attorney of Galesburg, by whom she has one child, Jane. Mr. Wertman is serving as a trustee in the Presbyterian church, in which his wife holds membership. In politics he is a republican, giving unfaltering support to the party, and while residing in Elba township he served as township clerk for ten years, was collector for two or three terms and was also one of the county supervisors while living in Yates City. For twelve years he has been a member of the Galesburg school board and was chairman of its finance committee. No public trust reposed in him has ever been betrayed in the slightest degree and in public office he has done effective work for progress and improvement. Wherever known he is held in high regard and most of all where best known. The close attention which he has given to his business affairs and the honorable and progressive methods which he has followed have constituted the secret of his success, which has won him to a prominent position in business circles among the men of affluence in this county. RICHARD AUSTIN LAWRENCE.--27 Richard Austin Lawrence was one of the early residents of Galesburg, identified for a period with its mercantile interests although later he became closely associated with agricultural activities in Knox county. He was born in Littleton, Massachusetts, September 27, 1823, and is descended from New England ancestry long represented in this country. His great-grandfather was David Lawrence, also a native of Littleton, and in Massachusetts he married Hannah Sawtell, of Groton, that state. Their son, David Lawrence, Jr., the grandfather of Richard A. Lawrence, was also born in Littleton and married Martha Adams, a native of Lincoln, Massachusetts. They were the parents of George Lawrence, likewise a native of Littleton, who on arriving at years of maturity wedded Rebecca Merriam, who was born in Concord, Massachusetts, and was a daughter of Joseph and Lucy (Wheeler) Merriam. Her father was likewise a native of Concord as was his father, Joseph Merriam, so that in both the paternal and maternal lines Richard A. Lawrence was descended from ancestry long connected with New England. In the acquirement of his education Richard Austin Lawrence attended the public schools of his native town and continued his residence in Littleton until thirty-two years of age. Careful consideration of the business situation in the east as compared with the west led him to the belief that he would have better and broader opportunities in the Mississippi valley and in 1855, therefore, he left his home in Massachusetts and came to Knox county, Illinois. He had previously been married, on the 16th of May, 1853, to Miss Edna Miller, and it was two years later that they left New England for Galesburg. Here Mr. Lawrence established a store which he conducted for a time, but later turned his attention to farming which was more to his liking. In that business he won substantial success and as his financial resources increased he acquired considerable land west of the city, adding to his holdings from time to time and improving the greater part of his property. He earned for himself the name of being a thorough and successful agriculturist and did much to develop the county along that line. Moreover, in his business affairs he was progressive and determined and his success was the legitimate and merited reward of his own labors. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence there were born seven children of whom four are yet living: George A., a resident of Galesburg; Fannie E., who is the widow of John G. Vivion and resides in Galesburg; Mrs. Anna M. Linn, of Emerson, Iowa; and Bernard P., a resident of Seattle, Washington. In his political views Mr. Lawrence was a republican from the organization of the party and always supported its men and measures yet did not seek nor desire office for himself. Lie held membership in the First Baptist church and his life was passed in harmony with his professions. He passed away on "the nth of August, 1905, in the eighty-second year of his age, and Knox county thus lost not only one of its forceful residents but also a citizen of worth who in every relation of life was found honorable and reliable. He did not seek to figure prominently in public affairs but was ever faithful to his duties and exemplified in his relations with his fellowmen his Christian belief.** Janine & Wini please do not take my biographies from this section of my Knox web site. Thanks
After attending the public schools of his native
town Leon A. Townsend further pursued his education in Lombard
College of Galesburg, and then made his initial step in the business
world in connection with banking, entering the Avon Exchange Bank as
cashier. There he remained until 1875, when he went to Herman,
Illinois, where he engaged in merchandising until 1893. ^n that year
he removed to Galesburg, having two years before been elected to the
office of county treasurer for a four-years' term. He was a capable
and faithful custodian of the public funds and retired from office
as he had entered it, with the confidence and good-will of all
concerned. This was in 1895 and^ the same year he entered the
Farmers & Mechanics Bank of Galesburg as cashier, retaining that
connection with the institution for thirteen years. In 1908 he was
elected to the presidency of the bank and in this position of
control he is bending his efforts to administrative direction. The
progressive methods of the bank are tempered by a safe conservatism
and the management realizes the fact that the bank is most apt to
win success that most carefully safeguards the interests of its
depositors. This course has ever been followed by the Farmers &
Mechanics Bank and thus the institution has been enabled to stand
un-weakened through periods of great financial stress. Mr. Townsend
is also interested to some extent in farming, owning some good
property. In May, 1877, occurred the marriage of Leon A. Townsend and Miss Christina Woods, a daughter of DeWitt C. and Katherine (McGowan) Woods, of Avon, Illinois. Her father was born in Clinton county. New York, while her mother was a native of Scotland. He made farming his life work and in his boyhood he became a resident of Avon where he lived for many years, passing away there in 1893. His widow still survives and yet makes her home in that village. His political faith was that of the republican party and his religious belief was that of the Universalist church. He was always loyal to every cause which he believed to be right and nothing could swerve him from the path of duty that he was conscientiously following. Unto him and his wife were born a son and two daughters: Mrs. Townsend, whose birth occurred in Avon, February 5, 1854; Lou, the wife of W. S. Bliss, of Avon; and Ernest C, who is living in Pontiac, Illinois. Mr. and Mrs. Townsend now have three children: Lora, the wife of Frederick Dickinson, of Winnetka, Illinois, and the mother of a daughter, Dorothy; Nellie, who is the wife of Everett Hinchliff, a lumberman of Galesburg, and the mother of one child, Virginia; and Fern, at home. Both Mr. and Mrs. Townsend hold membership in the Universalist church and he belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Modern Woodmen of America and the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks. Never faltering in his allegiance to the republican party he has done much to promote its success and has been called to various public offices, serving as supervisor for eleven years, as township clerk for two years, as county treasurer for four years, as state senator for eight years and as United States marshal for five years. Thus duties of an important character have devolved upon him in which connection he has ever proved himself loyal to the general good, placing the welfare of the commonwealth before self-aggrandizement and at no time regarding public office as a personal asset. Regarded as a citizen and in his social relations he belongs to that public-spirited, useful and helpful type of men whose motives and desires are centered and directed in those channels through which flows the greatest and most permanent good to the greatest number.
Mr. Herlocker was born in Milford, Missouri, May 27,
1881, his parents being Daniel A. and Florence Emma (Earp)
Herlocker. The father was born in the southeast part of McDonough
county, Illinois, April 27, 1851, and the mother's birth occurred in
Blandensville in the same county, May 21, 1858. Daniel A. Herlocker
pursued his education in the public schools of his native county and
afterward attended the Christian College at Abingdon. He afterward
engaged in teaching school for a few years in McDonough county and
then entered the drug business at Scioto, Illinois, where he
remained until 1884. In that year he was appointed deputy clerk of
the circuit court and removed to Macomb, Illinois, filling the
position for four years. On the expiration of that period he became
a resident of Table Grove, Fulton county, Illinois, where he again
engaged in the drug business until about 1905, when he retired. He
still makes his home in that town but is not connected with
commercial or other business interests at the present time. He votes
with the democratic party which he has always supported by his
ballot and influence and, aside from serving as deputy court clerk,
he has been village clerk, a member of the village board of trustees
and school director. He and his wife are members of the Universalist
church and their well spent lives commend them to the confidence and
high regard of all. It was on the 21st of May, 1876, in
Blandensville that they were married and unto them have been born
three children, Webb A., Ward G. and Emma Wynette. The last two are
twins and were born at Scioto, June 3, 1884. Webb A. Herlocker largely acquired his education in
the public schools of Table Grove and later entered the Lombard
University, from which he was graduated with the class of 1903. He
next entered the Valparaiso University Law School at Valparaiso,
Indiana, and completed his course with the class of 1907. He then
came to Galesburg and entered into partnership with Charles S.
Harris, this relation continuing until 1908, when the partnership
was dissolved and Mr. Herlocker has since remained alone in general
practice of his profession. He carefully and systematically prepares
his cases and presents his cause in clear and forceful manner, his
deductions following in logical sequence. Mr. Herlocker is pleasantly situated in his home
life, having been married on the 28th of April, 1910, to Miss Fannie
Porter, a daughter of Horace G. and Eldora (Carter) Porter, of
Deland, Illinois. The only child of this marriage is Robert D., who
was born in Galesburg, April 10, 1911. Mr. Herlocker is a democrat in his political views but his public service has always been done in other connections rather than as an office-holder. He belongs to the Universalist church, to the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and to the Modern Woodmen camp. He likewise belongs to the Sigma Nu, a college fraternity, and to the Galesburg Club. He was manager of the Lombard University Review and also president of the Erosophian Literary Society during his college days, and was on the Varsity baseball team, of which he was captain for a year. He was likewise a delegate to the Delta Theta chapter for the Sigma Nu fraternity at the grand chapter at New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1904. He was president of the junior class at Valparaiso University and played baseball there for two years, being captain of the team during the senior year. He has ever been interested in athletics and manly outdoor sports and thus preserves an even balance in his physical and mental development. His interests are wide and varied and bring him into close connection with many activities, all of which are commendable forces in a well rounded character.
James S. Allen shared with the family in the usual
experiences incident to settlement upon the frontier and in the
acquirement of his education he attended the common schools of
Galesburg and also Knox College. He early became familiar with the
duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist for he
worked with his father in the fields from an early age and also
assisted him in the butchering business, cutting the first round
stead in Galesburg. He continued with his father until he had
attained his majority and then came into possession of one-half of
the butchering business, his partner in the enterprise being Gideon
Prentice. They were associated in the conduct of a meat market until
1875, when they sold out to Mr. Allen's brothers. He then turned his
attention to general farming and to the buying and shipping of
stock, being associated in the latter undertaking with A. W. Ferris
and H. P. Berglin. In 1886 Mr. Allen removed to Russell county,
Kansas, where he again followed farming for a period of fourteen
years, or until 1900. In 1901 he returned to Galesburg and has since
lived retired, the success which he had attained in his former
labors providing amply all of the necessities and comforts of life. On the 29th of May, 1858, Mr. Allen had married Miss Amy S. Mitchell, a daughter of John and Bethany (Lee) Mitchell who were then residents of Galesburg, but were natives of Duchess county, New York. They came to this city at an early day and the father made fanning his life work. Both he and his wife are now deceased. Mrs. Allen, who was born in Galesburg, was called to her final rest on the 9th of January, 1890, while living in Russell county, Kansas, and her loss was an almost irreparable blow to her husband, for they had traveled life's journey together for almost a third of a century. Mrs. Allen was a devoted member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Allen votes with the prohibition party, which indicates his position concerning the temperance question. He regards the use of intoxicants as one of the grave evils of the country and does all in his power to prevent their further use. In fact, his influence has ever been on the side of progress and improvement, of reform and advancement. As one of the pioneer settlers of this county he has witnessed a wonderful transformation here. Much of the land was still unimproved and uncultivated at the time of his arrival and he can remember when the prairies presented one dazzling unbroken sheet of snow during the winter months, while in June they were starred with millions of wild flowers. In all the work that has brought about modern progress and improvement he has been much interested and has aided to the extent of his ability in the development and growth of the county. He can relate many interesting incidents of the early days and is an authority on various matters of history.
Judge Welsh was born in a log cabin in Truro township, this
county, September 10, 1858, a son of Michael Welsh and a grandson of
William Welsh. The latter was a farmer of Ireland, where he died
when more than seventy-five years of age. His wife, who bore the
maiden name of Mary Hoben, passed away in middle life. Their family
numbered three sons, Edward, Richard and Michael. The last named was
born and reared in Ireland and pursued his education there. He came
to the new world when a young man of twenty years, arriving in 1850,
and, making his way into the interior of the country, he settled at
Maquon, Illinois, where he followed the occupation of farming. In
1853, however, he removed to Truro township, Knox county, where he
purchased and improved a farm, making it his home for more than a
half century. He won a creditable position among the industrious and
progressive agriculturists of the community and his fellow townsmen,
appreciative of his worth and ability, called him to a number of
local offices. He served as justice of the peace for twenty years
and made the notable record of never having an appeal from his
decisions—such was the fairness and impartiality of his opinions. He
was also collector and assessor for a number of terms and served as
school trustee. He married Catharine Grace, who, like her husband,
was born in County Kilkenny, Ireland. Her parents were John and
Catharine Grace, farming people of Ireland, where both passed away.
They had a large family, which included John, Catharine, Stacia and
others whose names are not remembered. Unto the marriage of Mr. and
Mrs. Michael Welsh there were born seven children: William M., now
residing in Williamsfield, Illinois; Alice, the wife of David
Cloonen, of Zearing, Iowa; Benonia F., also a resident of
Williamsfield; J. D.; Jay, who makes his home in Williamsfield; M.
M., a practicing physician of Odell, Illinois ; and Mary, the wife
of Richard Judge, of Pontiac, Illinois. The parents were both
members of the Catholic church and passed away in that faith, the
mother's death occurring six months prior to the demise of her
husband on the 28th of July, 1908. He was then seventy-seven years
of age and in his passing the county lost one of its worthy and
respected pioneer farmers. Judge Welsh was reared on the old homestead in Truro township and early became familiar with the work of tilling the fields. After attending the district schools he was sent to Lombard College, from which he was graduated in the class of 1885. Subsequently he attended the law school of the Illinois Wesleyan University at Bloomington and in June, 1887, was admitted to the bar. He located for practice in Springfield, Missouri, where he remained for two years, and then came to Galesburg, where he has since followed his profession as an active practitioner save that for four years he was county judge, filling the office from December, 1902, until December, 1906. In his practice from 1890 until 1895 he was associated with George W. Prince and in August of the latter year entered into partnership with E. P. Williams and George A. Lawrence under the firm name of Williams, Lawrence & Welsh. At the same time there were associated with them E. N. and Guy P. Williams and the present style of the firm is Williams, Lawrence. Welsh, Green & McFarland, F. O. McFarland having been admitted to the firm relationship. During his practice Judge Welsh has conducted important litigation in the federal and state courts with gratifying success, winning well earned fame and distinction. He has much natural ability but is withal a hard student and is never contented until he has mastered every detail of his cases. He believes in the maxim "there is no excellence without labor" and follows it closely. He is never surprised by some unexpected discovery by an opposing lawyer, for in his mind he weighs every point and fortifies himself as well for defense as for attack. There are few lawyers who win a
larger percentage of their cases before either judge or jury than
does J. D. Welsh. He convinces by his concise statements of law and
facts rather than by word paintings and so high is the respect for
his legal ability and integrity that his assertions in court are
seldom questioned seriously. In addition to his law practice he is a
director of the Farmers & Mechanics Bank. The boyhood and youth of Henry W. Giles were spent beneath the
paternal roof, his education being obtained in the public schools of
Peoria county. After leaving school, for a time he engaged in farm
work, but later was employed in a medical laboratory in Peoria,
where he remained for four years. During that period he decided to
adopt the medical profession for his life vocation and subsequently
entered the Keokuk Medical College, from which institution he
received the degree of M. D., the knowledge therein gleaned being
supplemented by a post-graduate course in Chicago. He began his
career as a practitioner in the state of Iowa, removing from there
to Wataga, where he remained until 1902, when he established an
office in Knoxville, that he has ever since successfully maintained.
During his residence here he has built up a substantial medical
practice in the town and surrounding country, while his services as
a surgeon are in much demand. Thorough in his methods, sympathetic
and helpful in his manner and conscientious in his devotion to those
who enlist his services, Dr. Giles has become very popular both
professionally and socially; those, who are suffering from ills of
any nature whatsoever, knowing that in him they will always find one
graciously willing to alleviate their sufferings, if possible. Peoria, Illinois, was the scene of Dr. Giles' marriage, on the
26th of November, 1891, to Miss Christiana Schildwachter. The
parents of Airs. Giles were natives of Germany, whence they came to
America, first locating in Missouri. After the war they removed to
Tazewell county, Illinois, where Mrs. Giles was born and reared. The
father is now deceased, but the mother is living and continues to
make her home in Tazewell county. To Dr. and Airs. Giles there have
been born four children: Clark W., born August 29, 1892, who is a
student; Willard T., born March 25, 1896; Ruth H., born February 27,
1898, and Howard H., born March 17, 1903.
Mr. Weinberg is one of the native sons of Illinois, his birth having occurred in Augusta, January 3, 1868. The surname indicates the ancestral connection of the family. The grandfather, Isaac Weinberg, was a native of Rehburg, Germany, and served for thirteen years as a soldier in the German army, during which period he participated in the battle of Waterloo. He' was connected with the cavalry branch of the service. To him and his wife were born four children, Jacob, Simon, Fredericka and Regina. Of this number Simon Weinberg was the father of Lafayette Weinberg. He, too, was born in Germany, near Rehburg, and was reared in that land, there learning the butcher's trade. The favorable reports which he heard concerning America and its business conditions and opportunities determined him to try his fortune in this country, and on the day on which he was twenty-three years of age he landed in the United States. He first located in Cincinnati, where he remained, for several years, and subsequently removed to Augusta, Illinois, where he established a butchering business and general mercantile store, continuing in this line of trade throughout the remainder of his life. He married Louisa Jurgins, who was born in the same locality as was her husband. Her father, too, was a native of Germany and on coming to America settled near Cincinnati, where his remaining days were passed. Unto him and his wife were born four children, Louisa, Mary, William and Henry. Mr. and Mrs. Simon Weinberg became the parents of nine sons and nine daughters: Regina, the wife of John Tarr, now living in Moravia, Iowa; Jacob, deceased; Joseph, a resident of Augusta; Elizabeth, the wife of B. E. Bacon, of Pleasanton,, California; Fredericka, the wife of F. M. King, of Augusta, Illinois; Deena, the deceased wife of G. S. Stark; Mina the wife of C. M. Allensworth, of Galesburg; Moses, living in Rushville, Illinois; Mary, the wife of George Worman, of Grubgulch, California; Pearlie, the wife of F. A. Reiche, of Moravia, Iowa; Abraham L. who is in partnership with his brother Lafayette; Aaron, living in Augusta; Lafayette, of this review; Zeline, of Galesburg; Adolph, of Augusta; and Simon, who died when twenty-five years of age. Two of the children died in infancy. The father's death occurred in Augusta in 1901, when he had
reached the advanced age of eighty-three years, and his wife passed
away in 1895, when sixty-three years of age. She held membership
with the Presbyterian church, while Mr. Weinberg was reared in the
Israelite faith. Spending his youthful days in his native town, Lafayette Weinberg
attended the public schools there until 1888, when he entered Knox
College in Galesburg, being graduated on the completion of the
commercial course. He made his initial step in the commercial world
in connection with the wholesale fruit and produce business of By
ram Brothers, entering into partnership under the name of Byram
Brothers & Weinberg, which connection continued for a little more
than a year. Since then his brother Abraham L. has been associated
with him under the firm style of Weinberg Brothers. Gradually they
have built up an extensive business, handling everything that the
market affords in fruit and produce and conducting as well a
cold-storage and freezer business. Both branches are proving
profitable owing to their capable management, unfaltering energy.
and thoroughly reliable business methods. On the 23d of November, 1893, Lafayette Weinberg was united in
marriage to Miss Mabel L. Babcock, a daughter of Charles M. and
Margaret (McChesney) Babcock. Mrs. Weinberg was born in Detroit,
Michigan, and her father was a native of New York, while her
mother's birth occurred in Illinois. Mr. Babcock came as an early
settler to Knox county, this state, establishing his home in
Galesburg, where his last days were passed, his death occurring in
1906, when he was sixty-three years of age. His widow still survives
and now makes her home in Los Angeles, California. They were the
parents of two sons and two daughters, George M., Mabel L., Clara
and Frank O. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Weinberg has been blessed
with five children, of whom three are now living, Helen Louise,
Dorothy and Fayette. The last two are attending school and the older
daughter was graduated from the Galesburg high school in the spring
of 1911. In his political views Mr. Weinberg has always been a democrat
since age conferred upon him the right of franchise and he keeps
well informed on the questions and issues of the day, but has never
sought nor desired public office. That he is a man of social, genial
nature is attested by his membership in the Soangetaka Country Club.
He belongs also to the Galesburg Business Men's Club and is
interested in all of its projects for the welfare and improvement of
the city along the various lines that contribute to the city's
growth and development. His life record has no spectacular phases
but it stands as incontrovertible proof of what may be accomplished
through determination, energy and ambition. Mr. Weinberg is today
recognized as one of the foremost merchants and business men of
Galesburg, honored and respected by all. not only for what he has
accomplished, but also for the straightforward methods which have
ever characterized his business career. Ernest T. S. Mason completed his education in the Galesburg high
school and throughout the intervening period has been identified
with the insurance business. For seventeen years he was connected
with the Covenant Mutual Life Insurance Company and then became
general agent of the Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company in May,
1900. In this connection he has jurisdiction over ten counties in
Western Illinois and has under his control a corps of able
representatives who are building up for the company a large and
substantial business in this part of the state. Mr. Mason is
thoroughly in touch with the work in his territory and his own
capability and zeal enthuse those who are working under his
direction. On the 5th of November, 1891, occurred the marriage of Mr. Mason
and Miss Maude Alberta Templeton, a daughter of Thomas F. and Mary
(Arnold) Templeton. The children born unto them are: Donald, whose
birth occurred September 9, 1893; Marjorie Maude, born September 23,
1895; and Nancy Brooke, born February 2, 1897. The wife and mother
died December 6, 1904, and on the 30th of October, 1907, Mr. Mason
was married to Miss Etta Ingersoll, a daughter of Samuel and Lois
(Van Orman) Ingersoll, of Galesburg. In his fraternal relations Mr. Mason is connected with the Masonic lodge and the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks. He also belongs to the Galesburg Club and attends the Presbyterian church, while his wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. His political views accord with the principles of the republican party, but he has never sought or desired office, believing it preferable to concentrate all his energies upon his business affairs, and that he was wise in so doing is indicated in the advancement which has come to him, giving him a prominent position in the insurance circles of the city.
In 1853, with his wife and family, John Miller removed to
Illinois, locating on a farm north of Abingdon in Cedar township.
After residing there for a brief period he went to McDonough county,
where he purchased a farm that he operated for a short time, when he
again settled in Knox county. This time they located on a place six
miles east of Abingdon, continuing to make that their home for many
years. There the mother passed away, but the father was living in
Ohio at the time of his death. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Miller
numbered eight, six sons and two daughters, all of whom are deceased
with the exception of the son Daniel. The five brothers and two
sisters were Benjamin, John, Jacob, Joseph, Peter, Elizabeth and
Rebecca. Of these, Jacob Miller lived in Texas and at his death left
to his wife and one child an estate valued at about eighty thousand
dollars. The sister Elizabeth became the wife of Henry Eggers, while
Rebecca died in her fourteenth year. The childhood and youth of Daniel C. Miller contained little of
the brightness and joy that are always associated with young life. A
large family and limited means precluded the possibility of
schooling and the preparation for a full and well rounded mature
life, such as every ambitious youth aspires to attain. He left home
when still quite young and went to work as a farm hand, following
this occupation continuously for many years. Despite an environment
that was not conducive to intellectual pursuits and the exhausting
physical toil that occupied his days, such spare moments as he had
were spent in reading the best thoughts of the greatest minds. These
he dwelt upon during the long hours of his daily toil, never
permitting his mind to wander and hover over vague and indefinite
things but concentrating it upon a specific line of thought.
Naturally this training made of him not only a scholar but a
thinker, and when at the age of forty-four years it was found
possible for him to realize the ambition of his life and begin
studying for the profession he was so well adapted to follow, he was
fully qualified for the undertaking. He entered Wesley an University
at Bloomington, where he pursued his legal studies, being graduated
with the class of 1889. Immediately following his admission to the
bar, he established an office in Knoxville and has ever since been
successfully engaged in practice. A man of practical ideas, sound
judgment and fine reasoning powers, Mr. Miller was readily
recognized as an able representative of his profession and as a
result has been entrusted with some of the important litigation in
his immediate district. Liberal in his ideas and broad in his views,
he reads widely and thinks deeply on all the vital subjects of the
day, his opinions always being regarded as worthy of consideration
because they are the result of long and deep deliberation. He
possesses a rare memory, retaining every detail of what he reads,
and is unquestionably one of the best posted men in this section of
the state. Mr. Miller was married in 1864 to Miss Mary Humphrey, a native of
Knox county, and to them was born one son, Cyrus A. Miller, who is a
resident of Alliance, Nebraska. From his first wife he secured a
legal separation and afterward wedded Mary Jane Myrick, a widow and
the sister of John Burlington. They lived together for nineteen
years but at length decided to separate and in 1890 Mr. Miller was
again married, his third union being with Mrs. Nancy (Adkins)
Tucker, the widow of Josiah Tucker, and also a native of this
county, her parents having been among the pioneer settlers here.
Daniel C. and Nancy (Adkins) Miller became the parents of two
children. Nellie G, the elder, married Hal Bachus, who is a
decorator in Galesburg. They have two children, Louis C. and Helen
I., the former born April 1, 1909, and the latter February 13, 1911.
Daniel C. Miller, Jr., is living at home with his parents. He
possesses much musical talent and has been a member of the Knoxville
band for three years, playing the cornet horn. Mr. Miller has had many vicissitudes in life. He has met with hardships, trials and privations and has felt the sting of base ingratitude from those from whom he should have received love and assistance. However, his lines have at many times fallen in pleasant places and he is now well established in business, is surrounded by a happy and contented family and has in this county many friends.
Dr. Thomas Bradley, coming to America during his boyhood days,
was graduated from the Geneva Medical College, of Geneva, New York.
He afterward located for practice in Rochester and was well
established in business when, in 1866, he passed away at the age of
forty-six years. In early manhood he had wedded Anna G. Maloney, a
daughter of Henry Maloney, and she passed away September 15, 1879,
at the a&e °f forty-two years. Both were members of the Catholic
church. In addition to his private practice Dr. Bradley had served
as surgeon of the New York state militia with the rank of major. In
the family were two children who lived to maturity, the daughter
being Marie, who was a Sister of the Catholic church in the order of
the Sacred Heart. She was known as Madam Bradley and died in the old
City of Mexico in 1901. Dr. William O'R. Bradley was reared in Rochester and attended its
public schools. Subsequently he became a pupil in the Canisius
College of Buffalo and later attended St. Michael's College in
Toronto, Canada. He then returned to Buffalo and was graduated from
the medical department of the University of Buffalo with the class
of 1883, having determined to make the practice of medicine his life
work. Following his graduation he opened an office in Rochester, New
York, where he remained for a year and a half, and then went to
Washington, Kansas, where he resided until 1891. That year witnessed
his arrival in Galesburg, where he has since practiced, and his
pronounced ability has been the means of bringing him a large
practice, in the conduct of which he has been very successful,
reading and study keeping him in close touch with the advancement in
medical science. On the 22d of July, 1884, Dr. Bradley was united in marriage to Miss Margaret Rivers, who was born in Rochester, New York. Dr. and Mrs. Bradley now have three children, William Rivers, Marie and Anna. Dr. Bradley gives his political allegiance to the democratic party and is a prominent worker in its ranks, because of his belief that its principles are most conducive to good government. He served as mayor of Galesburg for one term and gave to the city a business-like and progressive administration. His fraternal relations are with Alpha Lodge, No. 155, A. F. & A. M., Galesburg Chapter, R. A. M., and Galesburg Commandery, K. T. He has also crossed the sands of the desert with the Nobles of Mohammed Temple of the Mystic Shrine and in his life he exemplifies the beneficent and benevolent spirit of the craft. In strictly professional lines his association is with the city, county and state medical societies and the American Medical Association. He holds to high ideals in his chosen life work and conforms strictly to a high standard of professional ethics.
William H. Spinner was only seven and one-half years of age when
brought by his uncles Ed and John Lass, to the new world and then on
to Galesburg, to the home of William S. Lass, his foster father. He
attended the public schools here and began earning his own living by
working for the Burlington Railroad Company in the telegraph office
as messenger. Gradually he worked his way upward, his capability and
fidelity winning him promotion, until he became chief clerk. He then
had charge of the Western Union wires and was wire chief. He
afterward became chief clerk for the division superintendent and
later in the general superintendent's office and in September 1888,
was appointed to the responsible position of ticket agent at
Galesburg, which position he filled until the 16th of February,
1904. Mr. Spinner for many years held the sole agency of all
Atlantic steamship lines and many European tourists and emigrants
bear tribute to his efficiency and his painstaking work in carefully
planning their trips over the ocean. In 1904 he became general agent
for the New York Life Insurance Company, having full control of all
of its business and interests in this part of the state. This is
still his connection and he has made for himself an honored name and
position in the field in which he is now operating. Mr. Spinner is
also known as a chalk talker and cartoonist, in which connection he
has given many entertainments in which amusement and instruction are
well balanced features. He draws rapidly with charcoal and colored
chalks, illustrating his speech, and in the twinkling of an eye can
change a gay face to one of great seriousness or supplement an
expression of sorrow with one of joy. He has received many favorable
press notices and his work on the platform has been highly
commended. In his political views Mr. Spinner is a republican but the honors and emoluments of office have had no attractions for him. He can find ample opportunity to use his time in different directions and is especially well known as an active member of the Central Congregational church, having for twenty years served as superintendent of its Sunday school. He belongs also to the Young Men's Christian Association of Galesburg, of which he was a director until a few years ago. He likewise belongs to the Masonic Lodge and the Galesburg Club. Throughout his life he has always been the same genial, courteous gentleman, whose ways are those of refinement and whose worth no man can question.
The youthful years of Jacob H. Schryver were spent in Sag Harbor,
where he received his schooling. When old enough to become
self-supporting he followed various occupations until 1865, when he
engaged in the shoemaker's trade. From New York he went to Maine,
but later went to Massachusetts, and in 1867 he came to what at that
period was termed the west, locating in Galesburg. There he
established a shop that he successfully conducted for many years. He
has always been a skilful and painstaking workman and as he employed
only the best of materials in executing his orders enjoyed a very
good patronage. After the death of his wife, Mr. Schryver located in
Abingdon for a few years, but has for some time now been making his
home in Knoxville. During the period of his residence here he has at
all times been found dependable and thoroughly trustworthy in his
business obligations and as a result enjoys the respect of all with
whom he has had transactions. In 1855, at the age of twenty-two years, Mr. Schryver was united
in marriage to Miss Ellen Myers, who was born and reared in Canada,
but passed away in Galesburg in 1891. Her parents were natives of
Germany, but in their early life they emigrated to Canada, where the
father followed farming during the entire period of his active
career. Of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Schryver there were born
four children, two of whom are living: Mary Ellen, the wife of O. T.
Martin, of Iowa, and James S., who makes his home in Greeley,
Colorado.
Janine
& Wini please do not take my
biographies from this section of my
Knox web site. Thanks Captain George W. Reynolds was reared in Victoria and educated in the public schools there. Later he attended school in Galesburg for three winters. He served all during the Civil war as captain of Company K, Eighty-third Regiment of Illinois Infantry, under Colonel Smith. After the war he returned to his farm at Victoria. He was twice married. In 1846 he wedded Mary Hotchkiss, a native of New York, and after her death he married, in 1859, Elizabeth Swickard, a native of Ohio and a daughter of Jonathan Swickard. Captain Reynolds has one son by his first marriage, Lewis M., who resides in Colorado, and one daughter by his second marriage, Jennie R., the wife of James Mc-Master, of Victoria township. Mrs. Reynolds and Mrs. Noah Swickard, her sister-in-law, were the only two ladies from these parts who accompanied their husbands into the Civil war, and both were present on the field of the battle of Fort Donelson. It is very interesting to hear her recount reminiscences of this memorable occasion. She is a venerable old lady, who is greatly beloved by all who come in contact with her and appreciated as a bright and entertaining companion. Captain Reynolds, who has resided on his present farm since 1836, is widely and favorably known throughout the county, and the worthy couple is esteemed highly by all. Both are members of the Congregational church, of which he serves in the capacity of trustee. Fraternally, he is identified with P. G. Tait Post, No. 869, G. A. R. He has been active in local politics all his life, always working for the republican party. He has served as school treasurer and trustee, and was for nineteen years village treasurer. His life might be termed one of long service to the country at large and, especially, to his community and county.
Elijah Bryant, father of our subject, was born in Bureau county,
Illinois, during the pioneer epoch in the history of that district
and was there reared and educated. As he grew to manhood he became
his father's assistant and gradually more and more assumed the
management of the estate, to which he devoted his entire life. He
married Laura Smith, who was also born in Bureau county and was a
daughter of Sidney P. Smith, who removed from New Hampshire to this
state. He established his home just outside of Princeton, upon a
farm which he carefully developed and improved. He married a Miss
Doolittle, of Princeton, and both died in Bureau county when well
advanced in years. The Smiths, like the Bryant's, were of English
descent. In the family of Mr. and Mrs. Sidney P. Smith were five
children who reached mature years: Lucy, now the wife of A. C.
Cutler; Emily, the wife of James Smart, of Chicago; Elizabeth, who
married H. H. Curtis, of Chicago; Sidney P., living in Athol,
Massachusetts; and Laura, who became Mrs. Bryant. The death of
Elijah Bryant occurred in 1892, when he was fifty-six years of age.
He had held a number of local offices and in a more quiet but none
the less effective way had carried on the work which his father
instituted for the development and up-building of the county. His
widow still survives him and is numbered among the faithful members
of the Congregational church, with which she has long been
identified. Of their family of six children five are yet living:
Frances, the wife of J. C. Bannister, of Kewanee, Illinois; Kate,
the wife of W. E. McVay, of Los Angeles, California; William C,
living in Princeton; Sue, the wife of A. H. Ferris, also of
Princeton, Illinois; and John H., of this review. Dr. Bryant spent his youthful days in his native city and the
public and high schools afforded him his early educational
privileges, his course being continued there until his graduation
from the high school with the class of 1897, and spent the following
summer traveling in Europe. During the two succeeding years he lived
in Los Angeles, California, where he was employed as a bookkeeper in
a bank. In the summer of 1899 he returned to Illinois and took up
the study of medicine in the Northwestern University Medical School
of Chicago, therein completing a four-years' course by graduation in
1903. To his theoretical training he added the broad practical
experience of hospital practice as an interne, being thus engaged
until July, 1904. In the fall of that year he was married and on the
1st of January, 1905, established his home in Galesburg, where he
has since remained, gradually building up a practice which has now
assumed extensive proportions. He keeps in touch with the progress
of the medical fraternity through his perusal of the latest and most
valued contributions to medical literature and his sound judgment
enables him to select that which is best and most valuable and use
such for the benefit of his patients. He is now serving on the
Galesburg Hospital staff and is a member of the city, county and
state medical societies and the American Medical Association. On the 26th of October, 1904, Dr. Bryant was married to Miss Lillian R. Warfield, a native of Princeton and a daughter of Jacob H. and Mary (Clark) Warfield. Her father was born in Uniontown, Ohio, and her mother's birth occurred near Princeton. Mr. Warfield passed away in 1890 but his wife is still living. They were parents of six children: George C.; Andrew A.; Lydia, the wife of W. C. Bryant; Charles W.; Lillian, the wife of J. H. Bryant; and John J. To Dr. Bryant and his wife has been born two daughters, Frances Warfield and Grace Adele. The parents are members of the Central Congregational church and Dr. Bryant gives his political allegiance to the republican party. He manifests unfaltering devotion to his chosen life work and his success is based not alone upon broad scientific attainments but also upon humanitarianism, which is one of the salient elements in his character.
Fraternally Mr. Ayres is a Mason, having joined the order at Kewanee in 1865, where he took the degrees of the blue lodge, and in 1867 he affiliated with the commandery at Galesburg. He is a member of the Order of Railway Conductors, and both he and Mrs. Ayres belong to the Presbyterian church. His allegiance in political matters is accorded to the republican party, but he has never sought public honors, although he takes an active interest in all municipal questions and always goes to the poles on election day. On November 9, 1900, Mr. Ayres was appointed by Governor John R. Tanner of Illinois, one of the commissioners to ascertain and mark the position of the Illinois troops in the battle of Shiloh. Mr. Ayres is one of those who can be depended upon to meet the requirements of citizenship by giving his services and cooperation whenever needed, his efforts being characterized by the same fortitude and endurance as well as determination of purpose that distinguished him on the battlefields of the south.
On the 13th of February, 1900, Mr. Conger was married to Miss Mabel Dow, a daughter of Andrew G. and Flora (Prindle) Dow, the former a native of Illinois and the latter of Michigan. They became early residents of Galesburg where Mrs. Conger was born. Her father died in 1905 when more than sixty years of age and her mother is still living. They have two children, the younger daughter being Edna, now the wife of James Moir, of Burlington, Iowa. Mr. and Mrs. Conger have one daughter, Barbara Lois. They hold membership in the Universalist church and Mr. Conger also belongs to the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks, serving for one year as exalted ruler of the local lodge. He likewise holds membership in the Galesburg Business Men's Club and is not only interested in its social features but is also a cooperant factor in its work for the improvement and up-building of the city and the extension of its commercial relations. In politics he is a republican and filled out an unexpired term as city treasurer but has never been an aspirant for office, preferring to concentrate his energies upon his business interests which have been of constantly developing importance. He is a worthy representative of one of the oldest families of Knox county, his great-grandfather having settled here as a pioneer when the seeds of civilization were just being planted in this district. Like his forefathers before him he takes an active and helpful interest in all projects for the progress of city and county along material, intellectual, social and moral lines.
Reared on the farm where he was born Albert J. Cline first
attended the common schools of Akron township, Peoria county. His
education was later supplemented by study in the Chillicothe high
school, and a course in Brown's Business College at Galesburg.
Although he had early been trained in agricultural pursuits, when
ready to select his life vocation he decided that he preferred a
business career. His first position was in the office of I. R.
Green, a well known coal dealer of Galesburg, by whom he was
employed for a year. Later he became associated with R. N. Shaw in
purchasing this business, which at that time only supplied the
retail trade. Under their capable direction this enterprise
flourished in a most gratifying manner and they later extended the
scope of their activities by the addition of a wholesale department.
Their offices are located in the Holmes building, suite 201 to 205,
this city. They do a wholesale coal business and also handle sand,
gravel and crushed rock. The business has increased in a most
satisfactory manner and they now have a well established and
constantly increasing patronage. They are incorporated for fifteen
thousand dollars with Mr. Cline as president; A. R. Cline, vice
president; and R. N. Shaw, secretary and treasurer. On the 31st of October, 1900, Mr. Cline was united in marriage to Miss Caroline Brown, a daughter of James A. and Ellen (Spence) Brown, of Good Hope, Illinois. They were both natives of Pennsylvania, the father having been born in the vicinity of Pittsburg, and the mother at Sunbury. In the early years of their domestic life they came to Illinois, locating on a farm at Good Hope, to the further improvement of which the father devoted his energies until his death. The mother is still living and now makes her home at Macomb, Illinois. In religious faith Mr. Brown was a Presbyterian, and his widow still holds membership in that church. The birth of Mrs. Cline occurred on the old family homestead at Good Hope, on the 3d of September, 1877, and there she was reared to womanhood. One child has been born to Mr. and Mrs. Cline, Margaret A., whose birth occurred in Galesburg, on September 25, 1905. Fraternally Mr. Cline is an Odd Fellow and both he and Mrs. Cline belong to the Presbyterian church, and politically he is a republican. He has never sought political honors, however, always preferring to give his undivided attention to the further development of his business.
Dr. Becker was married October n, 1888, to Miss Addie Rearick, a
native of Beardstown, Illinois, and a daughter of Frank H. and Helen
(Shaw) Rearick. Her father was born in Germany and her mother in
Massachusetts and they were married in Beardstown, Illinois. Mr.
Rearick is now engaged in the hardware business in Galesburg but his
wife is deceased. They had a family of six children: Harry F.;
Walter S.; Fannie, the wife of W. B. Barnes, of Fort Madison, Iowa;
Mrs. Becker; Allen C, of New York city, who is an attorney ; and
Herbert C, deceased. Dr. and Mrs. Becker are the parents of four children, Harry F., Frances Marjorie, Louis Dunster and Edwin Shaw. The parents are members of the Presbyterian church, in which Dr. Becker is serving as an elder. He holds membership in Pacific Lodge, No. 66, A. F. & A. M.; Raboni Chapter, R. A. M.; and Illinois Council, No. 1, R. & S. M. In politics he is a republican and in the spring of 1911 was elected to the office of mayor, so that he is now officially directing the affairs of the city. He was for many years a member of the school board. In strictly professional lines he is connected with the county and state medical societies and the American Medical Association. The greater part of his time and attention have been given to his professional duties, and yet he has found some opportunity for cooperation in public work.
In politics Mr. Granville is a stanch republican, loyally supporting the men and measures of that party. For two years he acted as alderman of the second ward. In Masonry he has attained high rank, being a member of the following organizations: Alpha Lodge, No. 155, F. & A. M., of which he is treasurer; Galesburg Chapter, No. 46, R. A. M.; Galesburg Commandery, No. 8, K. T., in which he is eminent commander; Illinois Council, No. 1, R. & S. M., being presiding officer of the council at Knoxville; Mohammed Temple of the Mystic Shrine; and Peoria Consistory, S. P. R. S. He likewise belongs to the First Scandinavian Lodge, No. 46, I. O. O. F., and is identified with the encampment and the canton. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Swedish Methodist Episcopal church, to which his wife also belongs. His genuine worth and his devotion to all that is right, just and elevating, make him a man whom to know is to respect and honor.
In taking up the personal history of George J. Eastes we present
to our readers the life record of one who is widely and favorably
known in Gales-burg, where he has spent his entire life. His history
stands in contradistinction to the old adage that a prophet is not
without honor save in his own country, for in the city of his
nativity he has been called to positions of prominence, indicative
of the confidence and trust reposed in him by his fellow townsmen,
among whom he has always made his home. Entering the public schools
at the usual age, he passed through consecutive grades until
graduated from the high school with the class of 1887. He then
turned his attention to railroading, being first connected with the
service as a clerk, while later he was fireman for sixteen years and
engineer for two years. He left the road in 1906, when called to the
office of city treasurer, which he filled for two years. In the fall
of 1910 he was elected county treasurer and is now serving in that
capacity, promptly and systematically discharging the duties of the
office that devolve upon him. On the 21st of December, 1899, Mr. Eastes was married to Miss Ada Vinecke, a daughter of Christian J. and Catharine (Case) Vinecke. Airs. Eastes was born in New York, near Buffalo, and her parents were also natives of that state. They became residents of Galesburg in 1888 and here Mrs. Vinecke is still living, but the father passed away in 1907, at the age of sixty-six years. Unto them were born five children, Elmer, Carrie J., Hattie, Ada, and Ruth. Mr. and Mrs. Eastes have one son, George Vinecke. The parents hold membership in the Episcopal church and Mr. Eastes is well known in fraternal circles, being especially prominent in Masonry. His membership is in Des Moines Lodge, No. 1, A. F. & A. M.; Iowa Chapter, No. 1, R. A. M.; St. Omar Commandery, No. 15, K. T., of Burlington, Iowa; Zarephath Consistory, A. A. & S. R., of Davenport, Iowa; and Kaaba Temple of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine. He is also connected with Galesburg Lodge, No. 142, I. O. O. F., and with the Galesburg lodge of Elks. His political allegiance has always been given the republican party and he has been an earnest worker in its ranks. In office he is making a most creditable record, his work receiving the commendation of all who know aught of the actual labor that is connected with the position . Henry M. Sisson enjoyed the educational advantages offered by his
native town and made wise use of his time and talents. He was a lad
of thirteen years when the family came to Galesburg and after
continuing his studies for a time in the district schools here he
entered Knox Academy in the fall of 1843. He became very proficient
in Latin and in mathematics was a particularly apt pupil. When only
sixteen years of age he had made such advancement that he was chosen
as teacher in the public schools, his broad intelligence well
qualifying him for the position. For thirteen years he remained a
resident of Galesburg but in 1855 removed to his farm in Henderson
township and during the greater part of his life was connected with
general agricultural pursuits. Mr. Sisson not only won for himself a creditable position in
business circles but also enjoyed the confidence of his fellowmen in
a large degree and by them was called to fill many positions of
public trust. He was elected supervisor of Henderson township in
1869 and was again called to that office in 1876, at which time he
remained in the position for three years. Again in 1885 he was
chosen supervisor and served altogether for eleven years. After
establishing his home in Galesburg he was elected to the office and
continued therein for several terms. He was likewise school trustee,
road commissioner and in other connections proved his loyalty to the
best interests of the community. Moreover he was identified with
many organizations for the advancement of progress along
agricultural and other lines. He was a member of the farmers
congress at the World's Columbian Exposition at Chicago and was a
delegate to the farmers national convention held in Fort Worth,
Texas, in 1898. He was president of the National Poland China Swine
Association and for ten years was president of the American Poland
China Record Company. He was president of the Knox County Farmers
Institute and his labors constituted a potent force in advancing
agricultural interests in this part of the state and in stimulating
progress throughout the country. He held to the highest possible
standards and believed that everything should be done for the
improvement of conditions and methods. On the 25th of December, i860, Mr. Sisson was united in marriage
to Miss Eliza Jane Miller, a daughter of John and Jane A. (Crane)
Miller, who were residents of Chicago. In fact her father was one of
the honored pioneers of that city, having served as one of the first
trustees when Chicago was a village. The family have a facsimile of
the resolutions adopted at that meeting. Mr. Miller had previously
been engaged in business in La Porte, Indiana, and removed thence to
Chicago where he acted as overseer in the building of houses. He
made his home there from 1845 until three years before his death,
which occurred in 1858, in Galesburg, Illinois. In the family of Mr.
and Mrs. Sisson are six children, as follows: Mrs. W. H. Cooper, of
Denver, Colorado; Mrs. William J. Pringle, of Chicago; Mrs. A. H.
Stephens, residing in New York city; Mrs. E. P. Robson, of Wataga,
Illinois; and Mrs. E. R. Everett and Miss Anna Sisson, of Galesburg. Mr. Sisson was ever a great reader and kept well informed on the questions and issues of the day and on all the topics of general interest. He was familiar with the history of his country and its politics and also thoroughly informed concerning the history of Illinois. At the time of his death he was the president of the Old Settlers Association of Knox county and not only was a witness of the important events which have here occurred but was an active participant in many. He long attended the Presbyterian church and possessed a nature free from dishonesty and equally free from ostentation and display. He was a lover of home and friends and it would be difficult to find one who had more warm friends in Knox county than Henry M. Sisson. His death occurred on the 29th of May, 1905. His life had been a useful one, well spent and fruitful of good results. He not only made continuous advancement himself but stimulated and inspired the progress of others and was particularly well known throughout the country in connection with stock-raising interests. No history of Knox county would be complete without a record of his life which constitutes a creditable chapter in the annals of this section.
Mr. Cams was twice married, his first union having been
with Miss Eleanor York, to whom he was united on October 8, 1834.
She was born in Kentucky on the 28th of July, 1817, and passed away
in Knoxville, on August 8, 1851. Unto them were born three children,
two of whom are still living: Mary, the wife of John Brewer, of
Monmouth; and Sarah Elizabeth, the widow of O. N. Barnhart, also of
Monmouth. On the 7th of September, 1857, Mr. Cams was married to
Miss Sarah Zook, who was born in Franklin county, Pennsylvania, on
the 6th of March, 1819. After the completion of his preliminary education John Z. Cams
entered Knox College, at Galesburg. At the age of twenty-seven
years, in 1885, he began his business career, and entered the bank,
with which he has ever since been identified, in the capacity of
assistant cashier. He attentively applied himself to the thorough
mastery of his various duties, at the same time acquiring a broader
knowledge of finance, thus qualifying himself for the
responsibilities of a higher position. In 1887 he was promoted to
the office-of cashier in which he continued until 1899 when he was
elected president. During the long period of his connection with the
banking interests of Knox county, Mr. Cams has proven himself to be
unusually well qualified for the position he now holds. His clear
judgment, foresight and conservative policy well adapt him for the
head of a financial institution, and the Farmers' National Bank of
Knoxville is one of the strongest and best established banks of the
county. His political allegiance Mr. Cams gives to the republican party and the past twenty-five years he has been a member of the local school board, and he has also served in the capacity of city treasurer. He is one of the more progressive citizens of the town, and is always ready to give his cooperation or endorsement to any movement that is inaugurated for the purpose of promoting the community welfare, along all lines of general interest.
John Cooke obtained his education in the common schools of
Fayette county, Pennsylvania, and when a young man learned the
miller's trade, which he followed in Pennsylvania until 1866. In
that year he came to Knox county, Illinois, and engaged in farming,
continuing in this pursuit until 1892, never residing more than two
miles from Knoxville. He then retired, having received the
appointment to the position of superintendent of the Knox County
Almshouse on December 1, 1891, and has served in this capacity since
that time. He is well fitted for this place, being ever merciful and
possessing the utmost sympathy for those who have been less kindly
dealt with by fortune, and is regarded with sincere loyalty by those
who have come to find a home within his gates. On October 2, 1856, the marriage of Mr. Cooke and Miss Martha M.
Forrey was solemnized. She was born in Pennsylvania on January 17,
1836, a daughter of Daniel and Mary (Lenhart) Forrey, both of whom
were natives of Pennsylvania. They had thirteen children, of whom
Mrs. Cooke and two others are now living.
After spending his youthful days in Avest Virginia William Hooker
came to Knox county, Illinois, about 1862, settling about two miles
northwest of Abingdon. He was a civil engineer and in this county
devoted much time to inventions, bringing out a number of useful
devices while at the same time he carried on his farm work. He died
in Abingdon, in February, 1909. at the age of sixty-seven years, and
his wife still survives him. Mrs. Hooker is a member of the
Methodist church and is well known in her home locality. By her
marriage to Air. Hooker she became the mother of four children, all
now living: Franklin H., of this review; Marguerite, of Abingdon:
Nannie, the wife of Charles A. Reynolds, of Galesburg; and John L.,
of Abingdon. In February, 1895, Mr. Hooker was married to Miss Nellie Foreman, who was born south of Berwick in Warren county, Illinois, a daughter of Frank and Mary (Lewis) Foreman. Her father was of Canadian birth and her mother was born near Berwick but both are now deceased. They had two children, the younger being a son, Frank L. Foreman. Mr. and Mrs. Hooker hold membership in the Methodist church and are loyal to its teachings. Fraternally he is connected with Abingdon Lodge, No. 185, A. F. & A. M., and also with the Knights of Pythias, the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and the Modern Woodmen of America. In politics he has always been a republican and years ago served as city marshal of Abingdon while for two years he was collector of Cedar township. He has made a creditable record in business and in office and in the discharge of the duties of his present position has ever been faithful, fearless and loyal, a fact which is indicated by his long connection with the sheriff's office.
During the residence of the Wilks family in Maryland James Wilks began his education in the schools of Mount Savage and after their removal to Wataga, Illinois, completed his education. During the progress of the Civil War he enlisted one hundred days from Wataga in Company B, One Hundred thirty-eight Illinois Volunteer Infantry and was mustered in at Quincy, but not found old enough to go to the front. He reenlisted, however, and was mustered out at Springfield, Illinois serving six month. At the close of the war he returned to his home in Wataga and learned the stone and brick-mason's trade, which he has followed ever since, making a specialty of building cisterns. He worked at this trade for a time in Abingdon and in Galesburg, coming to Knoxville twenty-six years ago. In addition tot he trade which he originally learned, he mastered the methods employed in painting, paper-hanging and decorating, evincing great skill in these allied departments of the building trade. He has the distinction of being the first in Galesburg to decorate a room, having performed the contract for Henry Gart. On October 20, 1868, Mr. Wilks was united in marriage to Miss Mary Isabel Laird, born in Pennsylvania in 1846. Her parents, Matthew and Isabel Laird, came to Illinois in 1855, their family being the first to settle in Woodhull, where her father followed the shoemaker's trade. Mr. and Mrs. Laird are now deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Wilks five children were born four daughters and a son. Charlotte is the wife of Wilson Hitchens, and engineer in the employ of the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad, and resides in Maniton, Colorado. They are the parents of two daughters and a son, Maude, Earl and Ellen. Valetta the second in order of birth in the family of Mr. and Mrs. Wilks and now deceased, was the wife of Charles Rogers. They were the parents of three children, Geneva, Charlotte, and Forrest. Nellie, deceased, was the wife of Homer Jones. Martha, the wife of John Schwensen, and engineer in the employ of the Santa Fe Railroad, lives in Kansas. Fred, living in Galesburg, where he is employed by the metropolitan Life Insurance Company, is married to Catherine Sikes and has one child, Richard. 102 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY, Illinois
02-1145--REV.
LUSIUS H. PARKER On 31st of August, 1836, the Rev. Parker was married to Miss
Elizabeth Treat Holyoke, a daughter of William and Lucy Greenleaf
Holyoke, the latter an own cousin of the poet, John Greenleaf
Whittier. Mrs. Parker's father was a wealthy carriage manufacture of
Cincinnati, Ohio, and the daughter attended Harriette Beecher
Stowe's school in that hat place. William Bond--862 In the death of William Bond the agricultural interests of Knox county lost an important representative. He was thoroughgoing and progressive in the management of his flourishing farm and was known throughout the county as one of the prosperous and substantial residents who won a comfortable competence by dint of his unremitting labors. A native of Ohio, he was born in Preble county, February 18, 1819, and continued to reside there during the first thirty-three years of his life. His father, Exumus Bond, was a native of South Carolina and removed to Ohio when a young man. He married Juda Bennett and number of years later removed to Randolph county, Illinois, where he passed the remainder of his life. Mr. Bond died in Preble county, Ohio. In 1852 William Bond left Ohio and settled in Brimfield Township, Peoria county, Illinois. Two years later he purchased the farm in Elba township on which has widow now resides, consisting of one hundred and sixty acres of rich and productive land. This he cultivated with much success during the ensuing years of his life. He was married December 21, 1845, to Miss Eliza J. Peterson. She was born January 22, 1826, in Tennessee, a daughter of John and Sarah McCorcle Peterson, both of whom were natives of Virginia. Mr. and Mrs. Bond were the parents of six children, born in the following order: Sarah, deceased; Frances, the wife of William Pitman, by whom she has children; Alice E., the wife of Marion Pitman, by whom she has eight children; Ella C., the Wife of William Barrett, by who she has four children; Alice E., the wife of Marion Ellison, by whom she has five children; Augusta, living at home; and Edward C., of Sparta Township, who married Mary Stone and has five children. Mr. Bond gave his political support to the republican party but was never eager for the honors and emoluments of public office. Mrs. Bond is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and therein a helpful and loyal worker. The death of William Bond occurred on the 10th of February, 1903, when he had reached the age of eighty-four years. One-half of the farm of one hundred an sixty acres which he bequeathed to his wife, she rents to a tenant. Honest and upright in all his relations in life, Mr. Bond enjoyed the high regard of all who knew him and in his death the community suffered the loss of one who represented the best type of American citizenship. He never shirked the duties which fell to his lot but performed his share in the world's work with willingness and pleasure. James
Armstrong-913--General farming and
stock-raising engage the attention of James Armstrong, who is associated
with his brother in the operation of a farm located six and half miles
north of Williamsfield. His birth occurred in Scotland in 1858, and his
a son of James and Mary Montgomery Armstrong, who resided in the land of
hills and heather, where the father engaged in farming, until 1867. In
the latter year with his wife and family James Armstrong emigrated to
the United States, and Upon his arrival in this country made his was
directly to Knox county. He first located on a farm on section 36,
Victoria Township, but subsequently removed to Truro township, where he
passed away at the age of eighty-three years. The mother is still living
at the venerable age of eighty-three and makes her home with her sons
James and Thomas. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Armstrong numbered nine,
all of whom are deceased with the exception of four as follows; Mary,
who is the wife of Charles Angus, of Peoria county; James, our subject;
Jeannette, the wife of W. B. Elliot, an agriculturist of Truro township;
and Thomas, who is associated with our subject in agricultural pursuits.** James Armstrong was only a lad of eleven years when he emigrated to America with his parents and has spent the greater part of his life in the immediate vicinity of his present farm. In common with other country lads while mastering the common branches of English learning in the district schools of the vicinity, he was laying the foundation of a future agricultural career by assisting with the plowing, sowing and harvesting of the crops and the care of the stock. By the time he had attained his maturity he was s killed, practical farmer, well qualified to successfully operate a place of his own. When he reached the age of twenty years he left the paternal home and began working for himself. The west had attracted him from earliest boyhood so leaving the scenes with which he had long been familiar, he began his independent career amid an entirely different environment in one of the more recently settled sections of the country. He remained in the west for three years, returning to Knox county in 1881, and has ever since been residing in Victoria township with the exception of two years spent Truro township. In his political views Mr. Armstrong is a republican. He is a public-spirited man and takes a vital interest in all local affairs, particularly those pertaining to the government of the community. Recognized as a man of ability he has at various times been called to discharge the duties of the township offices, and has served with efficiency both as a road commissioner and school director. He is well known in Victoria township, having been actively identified with the agricultural interests there for the past seventeen years, and is accorded the respect and esteem of all with whom he has had transactions, being a man of upright principles and sound integrity. J. L. Huber,914, who is residing six miles north of Williamsfield, where he engages in general farming and stock-raising, was born in this county July 08, 1872, being a son of Jacob and Catherine Armstrong Huber. The father is a native of Berks county, Pennsylvania, but when a child of four years of age he accompanied his parents on their removal to Illinois. His boyhood and youth were spent in Peoria county, this state, but upon attaining his maturity he came to Knox county, and here he has ever since resided. He is one of the well Known and prosperous agriculturists of the county, owning two hundred and twenty-eight acres of land and two and a half miles from Williamsfield, that he is still operating. After he had mastered the common branches J. L. Huber terminated his student days, and thereafter gave his entire attention to agricultural purists. He remained on his father's farm until he was qualified to begin working for himself, when he located on a place west of the homestead. From there he re------ Hugh McGaan,944, who is a resident farmer of Walnut Grove township, was born in Copley township, this county, January 13, 1858. After attending the public schools he engaged in farming on the old homestead until his marriage and he now lives on the Old McGaan farm, devoting his attention to cultivation of the fields and to stock-raising, both branches of his business proving profitable. On the 12th of November, 1885, Mr. McGaan was united in marriage to Miss Lettie Arnold, who was born July 2, , 1859, and is a daughter of E. H. Arnold, now a retired carpenter of Galesburg who has reached the age of eighty-four years. He was born in the state of New York and in 1864 came to Knox county, settling in Galesburg, where he always followed carpentering. He married Sarah Davis who died in 1870. She was the daughter of Hull and Emeline Merriam Davis, the former a native of Delaware county, New York, and the latter of Harpersfield, that state. In the family of Mr. and Mrs. Arnold were four children, but only tow are now living: Mrs. McGaan and her sister, Emma who is the widow the wife of William McMaster, of Walnut Grove township, and has two children, Thomas and Evelyn; Sarah, a graduate of the Altona high school; Grace the wife of Ellsworth Heck, of Bardolph, Illinois; William at home; Susan who is attending the Altona high school; and Roy and Emory both at home. The parents. are faithful and active members of the Presbyterian church of Altona and Mr. McGaan is a republican in politics. He has been particularly active in support of educational interests, serving for twenty-six years, or since 1886, as a member of the school board. He believes in progress and improvement along all lines which are of vital significance to the community and his influence has been a potent element for good. Benjamin E. Frankenburger, 945, assistant cashier of the Bank of Rio and also engaged in the insurance business, was born in Orion, Illinois, December 13, 1880, and was reared in Henry county. He attended the common schools and was graduated from the Alpha high school. Subsequently he was employed as a railroad billing clerk at Aurora, Illinois, and later was for one year in Chicago as inspector of local freight accounts for the Chicago Car Service Company. Subsequently he was rate clerk at Joliet for the Elgin, Joliet, & Eastern Belt line for two years and was then chief rate clerk for the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad at that place for about a year. In 1907 he returned to Alpha and became manager of the Tri-County Light & Power Company, which position he held for one year, and afterward became connected with the Bank of Rio. He is now acting as assistant cashier of that institution and is extensively engaged in the insurance business, selling all kinds of insurance. Like his brother Claude E., he is a Knight Templar Mason, belonging to Rio Lodge, \No 685, A. F. & A. M. Chapter No. 4, R. A. M., and Commander No 42, K. T. He, too, is a member of the Order of Easter Star at Rio and is regarded as one of the leading young business men of the place. Claude E. Frankenburger, 945, who is the conscientious and efficient cashier of the Bank of Rio, was born near Alpha, Henry County, September 4, 1885. He is the son of Ira K. and Mar E. (Calkins) Frankenburger, the father a native of Pennsylvania, of German descent, and the mother of Illinois. IN 1878 the father came to Henry County, Illinois, where he bought one hundred and seventy-three acres of land, and he and his wife now reside on the same. In their family were four children, of whom Claude E., of this review was the third in order of birth. Foxie's Note: Brother Benjamin's bio above Claude E. Frankenburger was reared and attended the common schools in Henry county and later completed a high-school education course at Alpha. He was then employed for four months by John M. Taze. in the Alpha Exchange Bank. In February, 1903, the Bank of Rio was established by John M. Taze and his son, William I. Taze, and in March of the same year Claude E. Frankenburger was appointed assistant cashier of the bank. In 1905, he was promoted to the position of cashier. in August, 1909, he and his brother Benjamin E. and Milton Deatherage purchased the bank stock and now are efficiently controlling the same. Mr. Frankenburger is fraternally identified with Knight Templar Mason, belonging to Rio Lodge, No 685, A. F. & A. M. Chapter No. 4, R. A. M., and Commander No 42, K. T. He, too, is a member of the Order of Easter Star at Rio. He is energetic, progressive and capable and although a young man still, is rapidly gaining for himself a leading positioning the business world in his community.
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