Bureau County, Illinois - Biographical sketches, 1906 (part 16 of 28)

On account of the condition of his health Mr. Smith, on the day succeeding his marriage, started westward, covering the broad expanse of country lietween New York and the Mississippi valley in I wagon. They were four weeks upon the road, after which Mr. Smith visited se\eral of the central states and finally chose Princeton, Illinois, as a favorable location, taking up his abode here in the fall of 1835. Soon afterward he established a dry-goods store, which he conducted for a few years, ami then purchased a farm a short distance cast of Princeton. He gave his time and energies to general agricultural pursuits for several years but he found the arduous duties of farm life too great a drain upon his health and energy and again took up his abode in the city. Soon afterward he was elected county clerk of Bureau county and held that otfice for eight years, discharging liis duties in a most prompt and capable manner. He then retired from active business life, spending Ills remaining days in Princeton, his death occurring August 23, 1900, when he had reached the venerable age of ninety-four years and eleven months. His wife passed away July 10, 1904. at the age of eight3"-cight years. They had traveled life's journey together for the remarkable period (if sixty-five years, sharing with each other in the joys and sorrows, the adversity and prosperity which checker the careers of all.

In politics Mr. Smith was a stanch democrat, thoroughly in sympathy with the principles and ]iolicy of the party. By investing his money in town and country property in the early days when )irices were low he became very well-to-do owing to the appreciation of land and real-estate values. lie possessed broad business judgment and keen discrimination, as was indicated by the judicious ])lacing of his investments, which in course of years made him one of the most substantial residents of Princeton and Bureau county. He w^as, moreover, a man of high ideals as exemplified in his straightforward business career as well as in his relations with his fellowmen, and wherever known he was held in the highest esteem. As a pioneer resident and representative citizen he was widely and favorably known in the county and his name should he inscribed among those who were the founders and promoters of her best interests in an earlv dav.

Melciiert D. Garten

^lelchert D. Garten, an enterprising farmer of Ohio township, where he owns tliirty-two and seventeen hundredths acres of land, situated on section 25, was born in that township, ilarch IS, 1864. lie is a son of Azariah D. and Emily F. (Browning) Garten, the former born in 1830, and the latter in 1833. both natives of Indiana, whence they removed to Illinois in the early '50s, being among the first settlers of Bureau county. In their family were boi-n seven children, of whom the subject of this review is the fifth in order of birth.

started out in life on his own account. He now owns and operates thirty-two and seventeen liundredlhs acres of land, situated on section 25, Ohio township, which is a valuable tract, being today worth from one hundred and fifty to two hundred dollars per acre, lie inlicritcd some of this propertv, but by hard work and good raanagenient has added to and improved liis property until he ha.s made it an excellent piece of land, on which he is carrying on general agricultural pursuits, annually harvesting crops, for he is thoroughy familiar with the best methods of cultivating tlie soil and caring for the crops. His wife al.<o inlicrited a tract of forty acres, situated on section 2, Ohio township, so that together they have a good farm property.

On the 1st of February, 1894, Mr. Garten was united in marriage to Miss Emma S. Compton. who was born in October, 1873, a daughter of David and Sophia Compton, both natives of Ohio, whence they removed to Illinois, settling in Bureau county at an early day. Mrs. Garten was reared and educated in this county and is the youngest of the five children born unto Mr. and Mrs. David Compton. Mrs. Garten is an excellent lady, possessing many sterling traits of character, and by the careful management of the household affairs has proved to her husband an able assistant.

In his political views Mr. Garten is a republican, but is not active in the work of the party, although he is conversant with the political issues of the day. He and his wife hold membership in the Methodist Protestant church at Ohio. Although they have come into possession of some of their property through inheritance, they have displayed marked ability in the management of their business affairs so that they have been enabled to add to their interests from time to time and are thus meeting with gratifying and merited success. They are highly respected young people and the hospitality of the best homes in the county is cordiallv extended to them.

Dr. James J. Moran. one of the younger and more successful members of the medical fraternity practicing in Spring Valley, was born in Scotland, July 2, 187.5. Ilis father, Patrick Moran, was also a native of that country, but was born of Irish parentage. He wedded j\Iiss Mary Mc- Manus, likewise a native of Scotland, and in the year 1881 he brought his family to the United States, settling first in Braidwood, Illinois. He was a minor and followed that pursuit in his new location. In 1886 he left Braidwood and came to Spring Valley, tlion a recently founded town, and again he engaged in mining. He still resides in Spring Valley.

Dr. Jloran was only about six years of age at the time of the emigration of the family to the new world, and his education, begun in the schools of Braidwood, was continued in the higli school of Spring Valley, from which lie was graduated in the class of 1891. For several years thereafter he engaged in teaching school in this county, at Spring Valley and ]\Iarquette, but regarded this merely as an initial step to other professional labor, for it was his desire to become a member of the medical fraternity and while teaching he devoted much time, outside of the schoolroom, to the study of medicine. In 1900 he entered the Northwestern University at Chicago, as a student in tlie medical department, from which he was graduated with the class of 190.5. He (lien located for practice in Spring Valley, where he has already met with very flattering success, having a practice tliat many an older physician might well envy.

In 1899 Dr. Moran was united in marriage to ^liss Aura H. Barrowman, a daughter of Thomas I'.arrowmau, of Will county, Illinois. They now have two sons: Tliomas L., born March 13, 1900; and James II., Imrn March 10, 1903. Dr. Moran belongs to tlie Modern Woodmen camp and other .-ocieties and is a member of the Roman Catholic church. He has a bright future for he is attentive to the duties of his profession, has comprehensive knowledge of the principles wliicli underlie active practice and is unusually correct in the diagnosis of a case. Moreover, he is personally popular and has many warm friends in Spring Valley, where the greater part of his life has l>een passed.

Harry C. Booth

Harry C. Booth, superintendent and treasurer of the Illinois Third Vein Coal Company, operating at Ladd, has for a number of years been connected with the development of the coal fields of Bureau county - one of its leading sources o^ wealth. Ho was born in Newarlc New Jersey, .\pril 10, 1864. His paternal grandfather, George Booth, still lives in New Jersey, at the advanced age of ninety-four years, and is a reprosenta(i\e of an old family of English descent that was founded in America in 1607. His son, George C. Booth, also a native of New Jersey, married Charlotte ('urtis, a native of New York. Both are at present living.

In the public schools of his native city Harry ('. Booth began his education, and later continued his studies in Bryant & Stratton Business College, in Newark. He entered upon his business career in connection with clerical and office work in New York city, and at the age of eighteen years went upon the road as a traveling salesman, being thus engaged for a number of years. Each change which he made was a step in advance, bringing him a broader outlook in the business world and greater opportunities. At length he became connected with the Spring Valley Coal Company, and he worked his way oteadily upward, beginning with the very humble wage of a dollar and fortv cent* per day. Gradually he was advanced from one position to another until he became sales agent for the company, one of the most important positions to be filled in connection with the conduct of its business. When the Illinois Third Vein Coal Company was organized, August 2C, 1901, he came to Ladd as superintendent and treasurer, which constitutes his present connection therewith, and in the performance of his duties in this capacity he has contributed in no small measure to the success of the enterprise.

In November, 1894, Mr. Booth was united in marriage to Miss Jennie L. Davies, a native of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, and thev have one son, Harold, born February 8, 1897. Mr. Booth is a member of the Masonic lodge at Spring Valley and the chapter at Peru. He is a member of the Congregational cliurch, and has taken a most active and'' helpful interest in the cause of education, serving now as president of the board of education of Ladd, while his efforts have been potent elements for advancement along material, political and moral lines in Ladd.

Henry W. Immke

Henry W. Immke is one of the oldest photographers of Bureau county, located on North Main street in Princeton, where he has a large and splendidly equipped studio, scarcely surpassed in its appointments in the state. He has been in business in Princeton since 186G and has been located in the northern part of the city since 1867. Ilis capability as well as the years of his continuous connection with the photographic interests jilace him foremost among the representatives of the art and he today enjoys iiuich more than local reputation.

Mr. Immke was born in the province of Hessen, Oerniaiiv. in the village of Wendershausen, March 9, IS.'W, Ills parents being Jolin and K. Christina (Apel) Immke. Tbe paternal grandparents were Jolm Henry and Anna K. (Y^aeger) Immke. The father was an expert weaver of damask linen, possessing .skill of such superior order that he was employed only by wealthy people. He was born January 7, 181 f. and died in 1848, at the comliaratively early age of thirty-six years. Both he and his wife were members of tlie German Reformed church. Mrs. Immke was born January 28, 1818, and died in Waako in the province of Hanover, near Gottingen, Germany. March 31, 1896, at the age of seventy-eight years. Henry W. Immke is tlie eldest of their five children, the others being as follows: Maggie, the wife of William Blume, who resides near Worthington, Minnesota ; Henry, who is living near Pontiac, Livingston county, Illinois; Mary, the widow of Fred Wisthuff, who followed farming near Chatsworth. Livingston counfy: and M. Elizabetli. who

In the schools of his native land Henry W. Immke acquired a good education and in 1855, at the age of sixteen years, he crossed the Atlantic to America, making his way direct to Peru, Illinois, where for eight years he was employed as a farm hand. Feeling that he might enjoy better business opportunities in other fields of labor he took up the study of photography under the late S. M. Fassett, of Chicago, who had one of the largest and best equipped galleries in the United States during the period of the Civil war. Under his direction Mr. Immke learned the business and in September, 1866, he located in Princeton, where he purchased an interest in the gallery of W. H. Masters and has since been identified with photography in this city. The partnership continued for about five and a half months, when it was dissolved, ^tr. Immke establishing his studio in the north end of Princeton, while Mr. Masters remained in the south end. Mr. Immke has since been successfully engaged in business, doing all kinds of work along his line. He is an artist of more than ordinary ability, of which fact incontrovertible proof is given in his pictures. A few years ago he photographed a group of old settlers in which are over four hundred faces in a frame forty-four by fifty-six inches. As a work of art this i.? an interesting study, being a faithful likeness of those honored pioneers who came to Btireau county when it was little more than wihlerness. The picture, too, plainly indicates that it was executed by a master hand and Mr. Immke deserves great commendation, not only for the excellency of this woi-k. Init more for tlie enterprise and generous public spirit with which he performed this difficult undertaking. He keeps informed concerning the latest ])rocesses which have improved and revolutionized the methods of photography and is not oidy thoroughly versed in the technical side of his art. but also has the keenest appreciation for efTects of ligltt. shade and color as well as ])ose. His work is certainly of a most artistic nature and has gained for him a liberal patronage, which ])laees him among the leading ])hotographers of this part of the state.

On the 29th of May, 1864. Mr. Immke was united in marriage to Miss Mary R. Steinbrook, who was born in iluskingum county. Ohio. July 1.3. 1843. Her fatlier. Henry Steinbrook. was born in Lancaster county. Pennsylvania. October 1. 1796. Init in his youth was taken liy his ])arents to ^luskingum county, Ohio, where lie afterward engaged in farming and later gave his attention to the manufacturing of .«alt and to coal mining. Ho was, however, a wheelwright by trade. In 1821 be married Sarah IjelTler. who was born January 28. 1806. and died in April. 1892. while his death occurred 'May I. 1873. Fourteen children were born to thcTn. of whom thi-ee died in infancv. Till' cilliers wercv Samuel, llcnr\', Sni'ah,

Catherine, Peter, Caroline, Margaret, Anna, Elizabeth, Mary R., George and Matihhi. :\Ir. and Mrs. Iminke became the parents of four oliildren, of whom two are living. Henry William Immke, Jr., born March 20, 186.5, married Martha S. Slavens, of Kansas City, Missouri, a daughter of Judge L. C. Slavens. They had two children: William Luther; and Martha, who died at the age of four montlis. Henry W. Immke, Jr., is connected with the firm of Ha.^kins & Sells, of New York city, as public accountant. R. Minetta Immke, born January 24, 1867, is now the wife of Fred H. Bacon, of Canton, South Dakota, by whom she liad four children : Neva, Amelia, Freda and Alberta, but the last named is now deceased. Pansy M. Immke, born January 13, 187.5, became the wife of Walter A. Williamson, who is in the employ of the large grocery house of Reid, Murdock & Co., of Chicago. She died February 18, 1902. leaving one daughter, Mary Immke. LeRov S., born April 2, 1881, died March 6, 1893. "

Mr. Immke has always been deeply interested in educational affairs and has done effective service in behalf of public instruction while serving as a member of the school board. Both he and his wife are earnest members of the Presbyterian church, contribute generously to its support and take an active and helpful interest in its work. ^Ir. Immke has never had occa.sion to regret his determination to seek a home in the United States, for in the new world he has found the business opportunities he has souglit and has won success, by his thorough understanding of the business which claims his attention, by his close application and reliable methods. He has also made steady advancement in his art and his position is not only that of financial success, but of artistic prominence as well.

Theodore J. Berge

THEODORE J. BERGE. Theodore J. Berge, a farmer and stock-raiser, living on section 17, Fairfield township, was born in Tazewell county, Illinois, in 1862, and is a son of Andrew Borgc. who now owns and occupies a farm in Fairfield township. The father was born in Hessen Cassel, Germany, and came to America in 1861. He made his way westward to Peoria by boat and located in Tazewell county, Illinois, where he resided continuously until his removal to Bureau county. Hir wife, who bore the maiden name of Mary Muensterman, was also born in Hessen Cassel, Germany, and they have now reached the ages of sixty-eight and sixty-four years, respectively. In their famiU were nine children, of whom Theodore J. Berge is the eldest. Three brothers now reside in Lincoln, Nebraska, two of whom are lawyers, while one is engaged la the real estate business. G. W. Berge, who is a niemlier of the bar there, was a caiididate for governor of the state on an independent ticket in 1901. \uolher brother is living in Kausis City, Missouri, and two sisters are residents of Minnesota, the family thus being widely scattered.

Theodore J. Berge was largely reared in tliis county, whither he accompanied his parents on their removal from Tazewell countv in his boyhood days. The public schools afforded him his educational privileges, and he early became familiar with the occupation of farming, which he has followed to the present time, now owning and operating a well improved tract of land of two hundred and eighty acres on sections '6 and 17, Fairfield township, and also owns property in Minnesota and Kansas. He carries on general farm work and stock-raising, and his close application and unremitting diligence constitute the salient features in his success.

Mr. Berge was married in this county to Miss Sabine E. Salzman, a native of Germany, and they now have four children, all of whom were born in Fairfield township, namely: Olga, Emma, Regina and Rudolph. In his political views Mr. Berge is independent, keeping well informed on the questions and issues of the day, and not considering himself bound by party ties. He has served for sixteen years as a collector, and is now school treasurer, and the public luties thus devolving upon him have been discharged with promptness and fidelity. Fraternally he is connected with the Modern Woodmen of America at Yorktown, and his religious views are indicated by his membership m the Lutheran church.

John G. Anderson

JOHN G. ANDERSON. Among the citizens of foreign birth living in Bureau countv is numbered John G. Anderson, a native of Sweden. He first opened liis eyes to the light of day on the 17th of March, 1863, and is a son of Swan and Sarah (Johnson) Anderson, both of whom were natives of Sweden, in which country they were married in October, 1858. The year 1866 witnessed their arrival in Illinois, at which time they took up their abode in Princeton. Mr. Anderson worked at farming and railroading, continuing a resident of the county seat up to the time of his death, which occurred February 15, 1867, at the age of thirty-three years The mother of our subject is now living in Huda in her sixtyseventh year, having been born May 3, 1839. By her first marriage she had five children, but only two are now living, the elder being Matilda J., who was born March 25, 1860, and is the wife of Herman Lundgrcn Having lost her first husband, Mrs. Anderson was married to Samuel A. Johnson, who v as born in Sweden and diad February 26, 1900, at the age of sixty-five years There were six children by that marriage, of wliom four survive, namely: Hilma, Nellie, Ida and Minnie. The parents were members of the Congregational church, and for thirty- two years ilr. Johusou was in the employ of the Cliicago, Burlington & Quincy Eailroad Coinpany, acting as section boss for twenty-two years.

" John G. Anderson was only three years old when brought by his parents to Bureau county, Illinois, and he attended the public schools until ten years of age, when he began earning his own living by working in a grist and planing mill at Galva. where he remained for about three years. He then secured emplovment as a farm hand during the summer and attended school during the winter months, being u.us engaged until twenty years ol age, with the exception of a period of a year and a half, which was passed in the Ho.xton steamheating works at Kewanee. He beg-an farming on his own account about the time he attained his majority, and when his labor and economy had brought him sufficent capital he bought seventyiive acres of land in Macon townsb^p. He is now cultivating one hundred and fifty acres of excellent farming land near Buda. and derives therefrom a desirable incoi""

On Christmas day of 1889 Mr. Anderson was married to Miss Auiiie E. Crisman, who was born in Macon township, July 22, 18(55, a daughter of William and Elizabeth Crisman. Mr. and Mrs. Anderson now have two children: Kuth E., born April 22, 1893, and William C, April 23, 1902. The parents are members of the Baptist church, and politically Mr. Anderson is a republican. Almost his entire life has been passed in this county, and the success he has achieved has come as the direct reward of his own labors. Starting out for himself when only ten years of age, he has been the architect and builder of his own fortunes, and deserves much credit for what he has accomplished.

Michael Ryan

Michael Rvan, to whom has been vouchsafed a well earned retireu.ent from active business life, is now living in Sheflu'ld, where he has remained for a numlier of years, having put aside the more arduous duties of a business career. He was born in the village of Gloucester, King's county, Ireland, on the 1.5th of August, 1819, and was reared to farm life, remaining at home with his parents until thirty-two years of age. On crossing the .\tlantic to.Vmcrica in 1S51 he joined his brother, then living in Scher.ectady, New York, an'l he lirst earned his living in the new world by working in a brickyard at nine shillings per day. He managed to save a little money, but his first wages were sent home to his mother, and he later paid the passage of a niece from Treiand to New York. For a year he was employed in an engine manufa'-tory at a wage of a dollar per day, and the .suocernling two years were devoted to railroad work in Ohio, after "which he returned to Schenectady. New York, where he was employed at general labor f.)r twenty dollars per month l-y a firm eugagdd in the lumber, coal and hardware business. For seven years he i-emained in that employ - a fact which indicates that he was faithful to the duties intrusted to him and was thoroughly reliable at all times.

On the 22d of Fobruary, 1856, Mr. Ryan wedded Miss Catherine O'Hare, a native of County Down, Ireland, who was brought to the United States when ten years of fge. They have one son, William. In 18G0 Mr. Ryan came to Illinois making his way to Priucet'-n, where resided his wife's sister. To provide for the support of his family he worked at farm labor until 1862, and then, putting aside all business and personal cc/nsideration, he joined the army in defense of the Union cause, enlisting on the 2d of August of that year as a member of Company I, Ninety-third Illinois Volunteer Infantry, under Colonel Putnam of Freeport. Illinois. He remained in the service until honorably mustered out, August 26, 1865. With liis company he took part in the battles cf Yicks- Inirg, Fort (iilison. Raymond, Jackson and Champion Hill. During the siege of Yicksbnrg, which lasted six weeks, every day or two he was in the rifle pits, and on the 22d of May was in the charge, after which he was on patrol duty. After a thirty days" furlough he I'cjoined his regiment and took part in the battle of Missionary Ridge, where Colonel Putnam was killed, and after that engagement only thijteen men of hi? company were fit for duty. The division then went with Mc- Pherson to Huntsville, Alabama, to guard railroads, but was ordered back to Chattanooga to guard a train on its way to join Sherman In an engagement at Dailon, Georgia, in July 1864, his knee and back were severely injured from a ball, and he was sent \'> the field hosoital at Chattanooga. As soon as able for service he was placed in the Veteran Reser e Corjis and did guard duty at the hospital until h'« discharge. He now receives a pension, as he has never recovered from the injuries sustained at the last active engasrement in which he participated.

Following liis military service Mr. Ryan at once made his way to Princeton, and the succeeding year took up his abode on a small farm in Maulius township, where he still owns one hundred and sixty acres of rich and productive land He also has eighty acres :"n Concord township, and his farming pro))erty is the visible evidence of his life of thrift and entoiprise. For tweuty-se>'en years he made liis home upon his first purchase, but for a long period before leaving the farm he left the active work to others, on account of his health. He, however, gave personal supervision to its management, and his business affairs were so capably conducted that he gained a goodly measure of success, and is now in possession of a co.nfortable competence. lie resided upon his farm until about 1892. and erected there a fine residence. In the year mentionod hiwever. he removed to Ottawa, where he purchased property which he still owns. Then he removed from Ottawa to ShelTield, where he and Lis e?liiiial)le wife still reside. 'I'liej' are devout members of St. Patriek's Catholic ehiireh, and have been generous oontributors lo its support. Politically Mr. Kyan is a republican, and while never an otfice seeker he has always been interested in those questions which afl'ect the welfare of county, state and nation. He has now passed the eighty-seventh niilestouc on life's journey, being thus one of the venerable citizi'>ns of the county, and in a review of his record it will be found that throughout the entire period of his manhood he has displayed most commendable traits of character - honesty in business, fidelity in citizenship and trustworthiness in friendship. He can therefore look back over the past without regret, and he receives the veneration and respect which .should over be accorded to one of bis years, whose life has been worthily passed. His son William, who man.iges the pro]>erty, and is at home, is also a republican, ami a member of the Catholic church.

Dr. ilacClarey ^^'eeks, a reprejeutati\e of the medical fraternity in J^add, practicing along modern scientific lines, was born in Chicago, March 29, 1871, and is a son of Charles B. and Irene (Rice) Weeks, both of whom were natives of Illinois. The father was born in Lockport, and is a lawyer by profession. He is now residing in the Indian Territory, but iiis wife passed away in 1894.

Dr. Weeks pursued a public school education in Kansas, to which state he removed with the family in 1878 when a vouth of but seven years. After completing a public school course he pursued the stud}- of stenography, and for a numbe; of years was employed as a stenogra[)hor in offices in the west. Later he took up the study of medicine, and was graduated from the Northwestern University of Chicago, coiiipleting the medical course with the class of 1902. He then located for practice in Spring Valley. He had previously gone to that place in 1893, at which time he entered tin' emplov . of the Spring Valley Coal Companv as a stenograjdier, retaining his connection tlterewi<h until he went to Chicii'o to enter upon preparation for the profession in vhici he is now' engaged. Following his graduation he was associated in practice with Dr. Franklin, of Spring Vall,v, for two years, and in 1905 he removed to Ladd, where he has since remained. Here he has built up a good patronage and has demonstrated bis abilitv to successfully cone with the intricate problems which continually confront the physician in his efforts to check the ravages of disease and r.^store health.

Dr. Weeks was married in 189fi to Miss Martha Nelson, a daughter of James Nelson, oiie of the early residents of Bureau county. Two children grace this union: Herbert Nelson, born March

12, 1902, and Dorothy, born February 1, 1904. Dr. and Jlrs. Weeks are well known and prominent socially, and their own home is the scene of many delightful social functions. The Doctor is a member of Dalzell lodge, No. 805, A. F. and A. M., at Spring Valley, and is in hearty spupathy with the principles and tenets of the craft. His time and attei.tion, however, are given most largely to his professional dutiea, which he performs with a sense of conscientious obligation, and in his administration of remedial agencies he ha? shown himself thoroughlv famili>r" with moderr methods of pijctice.

Charles W. Fordbau!, who for .fortv-one years has been a resident of Walnut township, and has s]ient his entire life in this county, was born in Wyauet township on the 20th of November, 1857. His parents were Charles and Elizabeth (Morgan) Fordham. The father's birth occurre<l in Cambridge.shire, England, in December 1825. and the mother was born there on the 13th of November, 1S29. They became residents of Illinois in 185(5, settling in Wyanet township, and the father remained a resident of Bureau county until called to his finad rest; his death occurring "in September, 1902. His widow still survives.

Charles W. Fordham was a you'.h of eight years at the time of the removal of the family from Wyanet to Walnut township. Through the summer months he aided in the work of the fields on the home farm, and in the winter seasons pursued his education in the public schools. He has always carried on general agricultural ]iursuits, finding in that line of life ample opportunity 'or the e.\- ercise of his native talents an<l energies. He is now the owner of two hundred acres of choice land which would oomn and the highest market price. It is situated on sections 21 and 28, Walnut township, and constitutes a very valuable farm, which Mr. Fordham has acquired through hard work and good management.

On the 25th of February, 1877, Mr. Fordham was united in marriage to Miss Florence Ferris, who was born February 27, 1S59 Tli(\v luive become the parents of two cliildren: Delia B., born March 5, 1878, and Sylvia B., born February 11, 1880. Mr. Fordham exercises his right of fran- (hise in support of the men and measures of the republican parly, and is thoroughlv in svnipathy with its principles aiul policy. Ife keeps well informed on the important issues whidi divide the two great parties, i.nd is thus able to support his political position bv intelligent arirumcnt. In religious belief the family are orlhodox. Mr. Fordham is a member of the Masonic lodge, No. 722, and also holds niemltership relations with the Modern Woodmen of .\merica. He has been school director for a numl)er of years '^^^(i nt'scssor for several years, and matters relating to the general welfare ami tlie ui>building of the eouuty reeeive his indorseineut and co-operation His life has been eharaeterized by unfaltering diligence, whieli is always one of the essential concomitants of success, and it has been through this means that he has l)econu' one of the substantial farmerb of Walnut towii.sliiji.

Anthony Murrasy

The life record of few men better illustrates the value and sure rewards of character than does tiiat of Anthony Morrasy, who for many years was a prominent and honored resident of Shellield. Deprived in his youth of many of the advantages which most people regard as essential to success in life, he nevertheless developed his native talents and energies, made the best use of his opportunities and by determined purpose, unfaltering perseverance and real strength of character he worked his way steadily upward, gaining simultaneously success and an honored name.

A native of Ireland, Mr. Morrasy was born in the County of Cork on the 25th of November, 1825, and when but eighteen months old was brought to the United States by his parents, who settled upon a farm near Baltimore, Maryland. After a few years they removed to Washington county, that state, and the father died when his son Anthony was but twelve years of age. There were six children in the famil}', and, being in humble financial circumstances, the young boy found it necessary to seek employment, which he soon obtained with a distant relative of the family. After two years he accompanied his emplo)-er to Ohio, and when a year had passed in that state they started for Missouri. After traveling nearlv all suminer thev found themselves, in August, 1840, at Peru, Illinois. In 1841 Mr. Morrasy, not being able to make a definite contract as to wages with his employer, tied tip all of his earthly possessions in a handkerchief and loft the place which to him had become a home to seek employment. After two days of lonely wandering (lie fifteen year old boy came at nightfall to a little log cabin, where he obtained food and lodging. During the evening and the sticceeding morning he made himself so useful in doing chores that the gentleman of the house became interested in him and proposed to employ him for six months at a wage of six dollars per month, and the succeeding six months he was to work nights and mornings and Saturdays for his board while he attended school. In the following spring Mr. Morrasy secured employment on the soiith side of the Illinois river at a town opposite La Salle and thus he worked altogether nine months for six dollars per month. From the first year's wages he was enabled to buy a young colt worth twentv-four dollnrs. Tlip second year he saved enough to purchase anotiier colt, and trading these for three yokes of oxen he thus drove across the country to California in 1850. In the meantime, covering a period of six or seven years, he had saved enough money to purchase ten acres of timber laud and to make a third payment on eighty acres of prairie land, yet up to this date he had at no time received more than fifteen dollars per month.

Starting for the Pacific coast, he made the long and arduous journey across the prairies of the middle west, over the hot stretches of sand and through the mountain passes, until he gained the Golden state. He was fairly successful in his operations on the coast and in the year 1853 he returned to Illinois, where he purchased two hundred acres of land in Gold township, constituting the present farm of his son. Prank W. Jlorrasy.

In the year 1853 Mr. Morrasy made a second overland trip to California, driving a herd of cattle, from the sale of which he received a good profit. After working in the gold mines for a short time he returned to his farm in Gold township in the year 1854, and for nearly a half century was identified with the agricultural development of Bureau county. Of the privations and hardships of those pioneer times, the long days of toil, the nights devoid of ease, the endurance of storms, cold and heat, the fording of unbridged streams, the breaking of the prairies, these and a hundred other obstacles which Mr. Morrasy met and overcame, only those who are left of his early associates in Gold township can fully tell. In the making of roads, the building of bridges and schoolhouses, the draining of the swamp lands, Mr. Morrasy bore his full share of the burdens, and in many of those enterprises he was an able leader. In a public way Mr. Morrasy served his town as supervisor for upward of twenty years and represented this district for two terms, 1887 and 1889, in the house of representatives of the Illinois legislature. In positions of trust he was ever found to be a man of absolute integrity, faithful in his duties and unyielding in his devotion to tlie cause of truth and justice.

Mr. Morrasy was married to Miss Esther A. Alexander at Randolph, Portage county, Ohio, April 19. 1858. She was born at that place in 1837, and is still living, enjoying good health. To them three children were born: Robert D. Morrasy. who now lives at Dorchester, Nebraska ; Frank W. Morrasy, ex-supervisor of Gold township; and Mary Irene, deceased.

Mr. Morrasy held membership in the Sheffield Unitarian church and was a constant attendant upon its services until prevented by the infirmities of old age. Tie was always an eager listener and was interested in all those things which promote the refinements and nobler aspirations. In 1853 he joined the TMasoTiic lodge. No. 13. of Nevada

City, California, aiul iu 185-1 dimittud lo Ames lodge, No. 14-J, A. E. & A. M., of Shellield, of which at the time of his death he wari the oldest member. He held all of the chairs iu tlie order, and at all times was an exemplary representative of the craft. Eetiriiig from his farm iu 1887, he became a resideut of Sheffield aud practically spent his remaiuiug days iu the enjoyment of a well merited rest, the supervision of his properly interests beiug largely left to his sou Frank.

The Bureau County Tribune, speaking of his political associations, said : "In the passing of Anthony Morrasy, democracy lost one of its stanchest friends, advocates and defenders; and one who was never at a loss to give reasons for the faith that was in him. He was a democrat because he believed the common people are the salt of the earth, and the only foundation on which a republic can endure. Thrifty and prosperous himself, he had no toleration for the slothful and improvident, but he believed in a free field and fair opportunities for all. He was most radically opposed to special privileges for the rich, and therefore to the so-called 'economic system' with a high sounding name, but which instead of protection for the American workingman, is but a subterfuge and a method of dicker, barter and sale between politicians and w-ealth, and by which the politicians secure the support of wealth in return for license to plunder the entire people. Mr. Morrasy was a thinker and a man of action, and prompt and determined in the execution of his purpose. He was a Jacksonian democrat. Party was much more than a mere sentiment to him - not the party name or the party organization, but the old democratic creed, as familiar to him as his own name, was to him a living principle, pointing along the only pathway by which the common people had ever obtained liberty and relief from the insolent exactions of wealth and the oppressions of 'rule by divine right.' He thoroughly believed that 'Eternal vigilance is the price of liberty.' and that strict construction and rigid adherence to the principles of democracy as taught by the fathers of the republic is the only safe course for the common people and the only bulw-ark against the greed of wealth and the secret plottings of a purse proud aristocracy which disowns it? country to dwell among titles and kneel at the foot of a throne. And he would tolerate no heresies in even his own well loved party. In the old days Mr. Eckels used to say of Mr. Morrasy, 'that he was one of the most meaty talkers he had ever known.' Mr. Morrasy was quite an able speaker, and in conversation he had a remarkable faculty of saying a great deal in a few words - of stating a proposition or expressing an opinion tersely, directly and to the point and with a peculiar originality all his own. With more favorable opportunities and under more benign conditions during his youth, he would have been a man of mark bevond the bounds of his county. Personally, his methods were, yes and no. He would or he wouldn't, and you knew which as soon as he decided. Between man aud man the golden rule was the line he hewed to, and he was therefore a good citizen, neighbor, husband and father. As well as he loved democracy Mr. Morrasy lived the last seven years of his life and died a man without a party. After a long life spent in active participation in all the efforts of deuiocracy he positively refused to countenance the free silver movement, and withdrawing from the party, mourned as a father over a wayward child while warmly resenting any intimation that he was not a democrat."

Although men differed from Jlr. Morrasy in opinion, all who knew him respected him because of his fidelity to his honest convictions. He had the unqualified confidence of those with whom he was associated in his business relations and his life was actuated by liigh principles and manly purpose. He certainly deserved much credit for what he accomplished. He started out on his own account penniless and eacii forward step in his career was the result of careful thougiit and study concerning the situation and of able use of his opportunities. Such a life record should serve as a source of inspiration and encouragement to all who read it. He passed away October 2), 1903, when almost seventy-eight years of age, leaving behind him a valuable estate as the visible evidence of a life of thrift and enterprise and also the untarnished name which is rather to be chosen than great riches, and today upon the roll of Bureau county's honored dead is engraved the name ol" .\uthonv 'Morrasv.

Charles Tv. Pendleton, a farnu>r, residing on section 29, Princeton township, was born in this county, September 23, 1839, his parents being A. B| and H. N. (Loomis) Pendleton, who were natives of Connecticut. The father was born December 29, 1807, and the motlier May 7, 1815. They were married October S, 1835, and in 1838 came to Bureau coimty, Illinois, from Tolland county. Connecticut. By trade the father was a carpenter, but during the greater part of his residence in Bureau county devoted his energies to fanning, and made substantial progress financially in that undertaking. He died June 21, 1879. and for a long period was survived by his wife, who passed away May 30, 1898. They were the parents of four children, of whom ^Itrv aud Erastus died when young, while a son and danghttr reached vears of maturity. The latter, Harriet, born March 2G, 1851, was married December 28. 187L to W. AY. Powell, of Putnam county, and died February 25, 1888, at the age of thirty-seven yeara.

liis native county, where he has always resided, and his training a: farm labor in his youth well qualilied him to take up the same line of business when he reached man's estate. Tie was associated with his father in general agricultural pursuits, and he is now the owner of one hundred and sixtysi. x acres of land in his home farm, besides other farmmg property. In connection with the tilling of the soil and the production of the crops to which it is best adapted, he has always been engaged in the stock business, breeding, feeding and shipping, and he still handles some stock, both horses and cattle. He is watchful of every opportunity pointing to success, and manifests keen discrimination in business -iffairs, combine.! with e.xeellent executive ability.

In 1882 was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Pendleton and Mrs. Sarah Bennett (nee Vaill), who was born in Wethersfield, Illinois, a daughter of the Rev. William F. Yaill, deceased, who continued in the ministry nntil his death, which occurred when he was about eiglity-tivo years of age. Thus was ended a long li'!e of usefulness crowned with the honor and respect of his fellowmen because of his devotion to the welfare and moral advancement of his race. Mr. and Mrs. Pendleton have tw^ children: Porter, living in I'eoria, Illinois, and IT. Grace, at home, and by her former marrirge Mrs. Pendleton had a son, William D. Bennett, now living in Los .\ngeles, California.

Mr. Pendleton is a republican, and the family are members of the Congregational church. Tlieir home is pleasantly located about two miles south of the courthouse in Princeton, and here Mr. Pendleton is carrying on farming and stock-raising with good success, his ability and energy having gained him place with the representative agriculturists of this p:\Tt of the state.

Clarence H. Delano

CLARENCE H. DELANO. Clarence 11. Delano, conducting one of the oldest established mercantile enterprises of Princeton, but with a record which fully sustains the reputation that has always been attached to the family name, was born in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, and is a son of John II. Delano, pioneer merchant of Princeton, represented elsewhere in this work. He was an only son, and was educated in the public schools of Princeton, to which city his parents removed in 185.5. On the completion of his education he joined his father in business as a salesman in the store, and in 1876 was admitted to a partnership under the firm style of Delano & Son. Under the able management of Clarence H. Delano the business has grown and developed until he now carries one of the most select and extensive lines of goods in this section of the state. His store is a credit to the city, and is a commercial enterprise which contributes to general prosperity

In ISSG Mr. Delano was married to Miss Lizzie McConihe. a daughter of L. II. McConihe, of Princeton. Four children have been born unto them : Martha I., John H., Robert C. and Isabella il. The parents are members of the Methodist church and are advocates of all that tends to advance material, intellectual and moral progress. Mr. Delano is president of the school board and a man of many admirable qualities, being genial and public spirited as well as progressive, alert and enterprising in his business life. He is spoken of as "a worthy son of a worthy sire," and his name stands not only as a synonym for business success here, but also for business integrity.

James Graham is now practicallv living retired, but still resides upon his farm of two hundred and eighty acres, lying on section 2, FairfieVl township. For many years he was identified with farming and stock-raising. He came to Bureau county about 1850. His bii'th occurred in Queens county, Ireland, eight v-three years ago, and when a young man he crossed the Atlantic to the new world, establishing his home in New York, I'ving for some years in Ithica. In his native country he had learned the business of sorting wool and he was thus engaged in Ithica, working in a factory there for a number of years. Consideration of the business outlook and the opportunities which he thought were before him in the west led him to the determination to seek his fortune in the west and accordingly he came to Illinois, settling in Bureau county. He bought a farm of fort}' acres in Fairfield township, to which he has added until it has reached its present acreage. For a long period he was active in the work of the fields and also successfully engaged in stock-raising and thus as the years passed by his financial resoui'ces gradually increased and now with a comfortable competence he is living retired, the fruits of his former toil supplying him with all of the comforts and many of the luxuries which go to make life worth living.

Mr. Graham was married in the state of New York to Miss Ma:y Ann Sterling; who died in 11)01. at the age of about seventy-seven years. She was a native of northern Ireland, born in County Antrim. Mr. and Mrs. Graham became the parents of three children, two daughters and a son: Mrs. Caroline Adams, who is residmg in Fairfield township; Eli/Mbeth, who became the wife of Peter Burke, a resident of Whiteside county, and died a numl)er of years ago, leaving three daughters and two sons; and Alfred J., who operates the home farm. He married Miss Mary J. Wisely, who died in 1!)03, leaving one son, Alfred Leo, now eleven years of age. They had also lost a

Politically Mr. Graham lias always voted the democratic ticket since he became a naturalized American citizen, lie ha.s served as school director and in other township offices. He was reared in the Cliurcli of England but joined the Catholic clmrch about five years ago. He ha.? now traveled far on life's journey and can look back over the past without regret, for he has always been a man of strong purpose and of higli princijiles. endeavoring to do to others as he would have thciu do to liim, and finding tliat while following straightforward business niethod-s lie could at the same time acliieve a measure of success such as is desired by all who enter business life. He now receives the veneration and respect which should ever be accorded to one of his years and it is with pleasure that we present to our readers this record of liis career.

Dennis Brady

Dennis Brady, living in Macon town.«hip, came t(i Illinois in 18-50 and to Bureau county in IS-jl. Although his residence here has not been continuous through the intervening period, he has resided upon his present farm since 18GS. He was born in County Armagh, Ireland, September 10, 183."), and is a son of Francis and Nancy (O'Neil) Brady, who were likewise natives of the Emerald isle. They were married in that country, and on a sailing vessel went from Belfast to New York citv in 1828, arriving at the Atlantic port after eight weeks spent upon the water. They then proceeded up the Hudson river to Albany and by canal and team to Eochester, New York, where the father worked as a brickma«on and stonemason, having mastered the trade in his native country. Later, wjien his capital was sufficient to enable him to purchase a farm, he invested in land at the raoutli of the Gnncsee river, where lie lived for a long period. He was a member of the Roman Catholic church, and gave his political support to the democracy. Unto him and liis wife were born four children, three of whom survive, namely : Denni-s, Mrs. Nancy Lynch, and Francis, who is living in California. Having lost her first husband, tlie mother became the wife of Tliomas McManus, now deceased, and unto them were born four children, of wliom two sons and a daughter are yet living.

Dennis Brady was only three years old when brought to the United States by his parents, and hi.« education was acquired in the public schools of New York. He remained a resident of the east until twenty-five years of age, when, in the fall of 1850, he journeyed westward to Illinois, eventually reaching La Salle. He was both a brickmason and ])lasterer by trade, and worked in La Salle through tlie summer of 1851. He then removed to ludiantown, now Tiskilwa, Bureau county, and subsequently went to Henry, j\Iarshall county. In the spring of 1852 he made his way to St. Louis, Missouri, afterward to Vicksburg, and on to New Orleans, where he was employed on the government custom house, then in course of construction. He afterward engaged in steamboating, and made a trip up the Cumberland river to Nashville. Subsequently he returned to New Orleans and afterward proceeded up the Mississippi and Ohio rivers to Cincinnati. He was then again at St. Louis, and worked on the grading of the Illinois Central Railroad at a time when the dirt was conveyed in wheelbarrows, for the modern machinery of the present time was then unknown. Mr. Brady, however, was tlie first man to use a scraper for grading purposes. In the fall of 1853 he returned to New York, where he remained until the spring of 1854. He next made his way to Iowa City, Iowa, and at a later date returned to Indiantown, where he was engaged at his trade. He afterward again went to the Empire state, and, following his marriage he returned to Indiantown. Since 1868 he has lived upon his present farm, comprising three hundred and twenty acres of rich and productive land. He has now a well improved property, and in 1891 he erected thereon a fine residence. He breeds shorthorn Durham cattle and also Poland China hogs and Norman liorses, shipping his cattle and hogs to the Chicago market.

On the 22d of December, 1854, Mr. Brady was married to Miss Emily Mo.xon, who was bom in Doylestown, Bucks county, Pennsylvania, January 24, 183G, the wedding being celebrated in Ciuirlotte, New York. ilrs. Brady was a daughter of John and Martha (Aldous) Moxon, both of whom were born in England, where their marriage was celebrated July 3, 1813. They had six children, all born in England with the exception of Mrs. Brady. The father, whose birth occurred June 28, ITSG, died July 20, 1878, while his wife, wlio was born May 27, 1787, died A\igust 21, 1829. They came to this country in 1823 by sailing vessel and look up their abode in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, removing thence to tlie state of New York. The father purchased a farm, which was partially improved, in Monroe county, New York, jind at one time was the owner of two good farm properties. He held the office of school director for a number of years and was supervisor of the county poor for a considerable period. His interest in public affairs was deep and sincere, and was manifest by tangible support given to many movements that proved of public good. His political allegiance supported the democracy, while both he and liis wife were baptized in the Clmrch of England. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Moxon were born si.x children, of whom three still survive. Charlotte, the eldest, is the widow of Ca[>tain E. S. Church, and resides in St. Louis. .Mfred wedded Mary r>1ovd and is now living in Kansas.

Past Axd Pkesext Of Bureau Col'Xty

Unto Mr. and ..Irs. Brady have been born eiglii children, of whom Hve still survive, as follows: Edward B., Frederick C, John D . Martha E. and Arthur B. The family are well known in the community as prominent, influential and respected citizens. Mr. Briidy is a democrat, and has served as school director for eight or tvvelve years, but has not been active as a politicia.i in the sense of office seeking. He has now passed the eighty-first milestone on life's journey, and Lis has i)een an honorable and upright career, characterized by diligence, by perseverance and by unwavering integrity. While working at his trade he visited many sections of ;his country, but in jnore recent years he has resided upon his favm, and although now in the evening of life he yet gives ]iersonal supervision to his place and its improvements, seeming in spirit and interests yet in his prime. Akhnugh born across the water, he has ever been loyal to the stars and stripes, and Las dejp attachment for the institutions of the countrv.

Koyal Victor C Vss

Royal Victor Cass, who follows farming and stock-raising in Concord townsh'p, annually feeding and handling a large number of hogs, cattle and horses, was born at Arlington, Bureau county, June 17, 18.37. his parents being Isaac Hill and Hannah W. (Blcxham) Cass, who came to Illinois the former about 1850 and the latter in 1S.")3. The father was a grain buyer, who engaged in business at Wyanet for some years and later turned his attention to the hardware and grocery trade.

Royal V. Cass spent the days of hi.; boyhood and youth under the parental roc f , and was educated in the schiols of Wyanet and Princeton. When twenty-two years of age he went to Harper county, Kansas, where he remained for a year, and then worked for one year on a cattle ranch for the T.J Kansas City Cattle Company. He afterward went to Cawley county, Kansas, where his father owned large interests, and there engiged in fanning for seven years. In ISOO he returned to Concord township, where he bought nis present home. Ho has a good farm, on which he has a modern residence and all conveniences that render rnrai life pleasant and facilitate the wirk of the fields. There are good barns and other substantial outbuildings, and the farm is divided into fields of convenient size by well kept fences. He raisc\'5 stock and feeds and markets large UMnibers of hogs, cattle and hor.ses annually, this branch of his business ])roving very prorital)le. He has become well known as a stock-raiser and dealer, and in his business is meeting witli very gratifying success.

Kansas. She is a daughter of Wilhud Darling, a farmer, and they have become the parents of six children: Asa F., Mamie M., [saac H. Mattie Hannah, Mary and Edith Victor, all at home. In his political views Mr. Cass is a stalwart republican, but without aspiration for office. He belongs to the Congregational church, and is a school director, the cause of education finding in him a warm and stalwart friend. He withholds his support from no movement calculated to prove of general good, and as a citiz,-u and in social and business relations has made a creditable record.

Marshal E. Prutsmax

Marshal E. Pratsman is the owner of one hundred and fifty-seven acres of choice land adjoining the village cf Kasbeer. He purchased this property in ISiHi, and has made his hom,. thereon since 15)01. It is equipped with modern accessories and improvements, and indicates in its present fine appearance his careful supervision and progressive methods. A native of Bureau county, Mr. Prutsman wss born April It, 18.59, and is a son of W. R. and Mary (Adams; Prutsiiian, likewise natives of this county. In thci- iamilj' were three children, of whom Marshal E. is the eldest. He is indebted to the public school system of the count}' for the educational privileges which he enjoyed and which prepared him for life's practical and responsilile duties. He was reared to farm life, early becoming familiar with the work that falls to the lot of the agriculturis: as he plows and plants his fields and harvests his crops.

Having arrived at years of maturity, Mr Prutsman was married on Christmas dav of 1883 to Miss X'ora Adams, who was born in Illinois, December 11. ISG.j. a daughter of Robert and Amanda (Sill) Adams, tht former a nati.o of the state of Ohio and the latter of Pennsylvania. They came to Bureau count\ with their respective parents in their childhood days and were married here Eight children were born unto them, and Mrs. Prutsman is the eldest of the family. She, too, acquired a common school education, and remained under the parental roof until her marriage. Four children have been born of this union: Ray 0., who was liorn September 23, 1S8(), and lied August 13, 1905; Harold C, born July 29, 1895; Winifred B., who was born August 18. 1899. and died April 1, 1904, and Orletha M.. born June .5, 1906.

The family are members of tlii Alethodist Protestant church, and in politics Mr. Prutsman is a prohiljitionist - associations whirh indicate much of the c-haractcr of the man and his devotion to high and honorable principles. Throughout his business career he has carried fanning, and now owns one hundred and fifty-seven acres of choice land adjoining the village of Kasbeer, valued at from uno hundred and seventy-five to two hundred dollars per acre. T^e is entirely a solf-inaflc man, scartin^ out in i:e empty haiulcil, witlioul assistaiKc from auj' source. In 1899 he puivhased his present farm, anJ two years later took up his abode thereon. He now rents his hmd and practicaJly lives retired, leaving the active work of the fields to others. Tliere "re excellent buildiuss upon the place and fin'j shade trees, and the farm is splendidly located. This excellent family enjoys life to the fullest extent, and are numliered among Bureau county's best citizens. The life record of Mr. Prutsman should serve as a source of encouragement and inspiration to others, showing what may be acoomplislied when one has the will to dare and the courage to do, for it has been in this way that he ha? attained a gratifying measuie of prosjierity.

David L. Miller has been a most active and prominent factor in the promotion of the interests of the town of Manlius, and at the same time has successfully conducted outside business affairs, the extent and importance of which have made him a representative resident of the community. He was born March 21, 1861, in Manlius township, upon the present site of the village, and is a son of David Addison Miller, who came to Bureau county, Illinois, in IS.jO from Clark county, Ohio. It was in the latter county that he was born May 2, 1827. He had no special advantages nor privileges in his youth, and started out in life on his own account empty-handed. He chopped wood and worked at farm labor for some time in order to gain money sufficient to enable him to purchase land, but as the years passed he eventually amassed a comfortal)le fortune, having at one time about six hundred acres of valualile land. He wa.s also an extensive breeder of horses, cattle and hogs, and for years engaged in stock buying. He likewise did business as an auctioneer, conducting stock sales, in which connection he became very widely kno\m. He possessed the unfaltering purpose and keen business discernment that enabled him to carry forward to successful completion whatever he undertook, and he made a splendid record, not only by reason of his prosperity, Init also on account of his business proliity and straightforward dealing.

David .v. Miller was married in Bureau county to Miss Ovan<la Williams, and unto them was born one son, William W. Miller, who is now residing in Wyauel. .M'ler the dcalli of the wife and mother David .\. Miller was married to her sister, Amanda M. Williams, and they became the parents of six children, who are still living, as follows : Mary Ann, the wife of Joseph Kulp, of Princeton; Julia Delphie, the wife of Lyle P. Smith, of Manlius: David D. ; Owen .\lonzo: Maud May, the wife of 1,'alpli Foll.'tt: and Hcriha D.. who" is at home. Thev also lost two children. Air. Miller, coming to this county in limited financial circumstances, steadily worked his way upward. Each year he made advancement toward the goal of prosperity, and the methods which he followed were such as would bear the closest investigation and scrutiny, so that his name became an honored one in business circles and all acknowledged that ])is success was the fitting reward of his labor.

David \j. Miller, reared in his parents' home, entered the public schools at the usual age, and when he had mastered the branches of learning therein taught he took up the business of farming and stock-breeding, thus taking his place in agricidtural circles as one who recognizes the obligations that devolve upon the individual as he attains manhood. In connection with the tilling of the soil he engaged in business as a stock buyer, and has also bred stock, keeping fine registered and pedigreed horses and cattle. In July, 1905, when the town of Manlius was incorporated, he divided forty acres from the farm, and on that land the railroad built its property and laid out the town. He likewise became nuuiager of the Northwestern Elevator Company from the time its elevator was constructed, and thus successfully controlled the grain trade until his son, wishing to enter business life, became his successor in the management of the elevator.

While his private business interests have claimed much of his time and attention, he has yet found opportunity to devote to matters of public moment, and has always stood for advancement am] progress. In 1901, upon the formation of the drainage commission, he was made one of the commissioners, in which capacity he has since served, being elected at each succeeding election. He has also served as school director for twelve years and has fdled the office of alderman in Manlius, being chosen to the position upon the democratic ticket. He believes it to be the duty as well as the privilege of every American citizen to exercise his right of franchise and to stand in support of those measures and principles which careful consideration and sound judgment indicate to bo a correct policy.

Mr. Miller was married December 28, 1882, to Jliss Lizzie Bowen, of Walnut, Illinois, a daughter of Burton and .Tulia Bowen, farming people of this part of the state. The marriage has been blessed with eight children, seven of whom are living: Burton B., born December 31, 1883, who is now manager of the Northwestern Elevator Company at Manlius, and who married Lulu Jones, of JIanlius, on the 10th of June, 190(;; Bertha L., at home ; Julian Stewart : Perry David ; Harold Foster: Dorothy Elizabeth; .\rmiiita Dora, who was born April 23, 1898, and died February 2, 1899; and Donald Leslie, born September 12. 1903.

In every community are found men of enterprise and worth who recognize possibilities and are the leaders in those movements which bring about material prosperity and substantial growth along agricultural and commercial lines. Such a one in j\Ianlius is D. L. Miller, and while promoting his individual success he also advances the general welfare.

Fraxk M. Skeffington

Frank M. Skeflington, the owner of valuable property interests and a man of considerable ability as a financier, was born in Westfield township, May 12, 1855. His home is now on section 27 of the same township, where he has lived continuously since 1896. His parents were Patrick and Nora (Stackpole) SkefTmgton, both natives of Canada, whence they came to Hlinois. Locating in Bureau county, their son, Frank M., was here born and reared and he completed his education in the schools of Arlington. Throughout his entire life he has followed farming and he is today the owner of two hundred and twelve and a half acres of valuable land on section 27, Westfield township. This constitutes the old homestead farm and is a well improved property, the fields having been brought under a high state of cultivation, while excellent improvements have been added in the way of substantial buildings. He was formerly the owner of eighty acres of land on which the Eochelle & Northern Railway Coal Company has located the town of Cherry, having a population of about eight hundred.

Mr. Skeflington started out in life largely empty handed. At the time of his marriage he rented land from W. H. Neil, upon which he lived for a year, after which he removed to the Milner farm east of Arlington. There he resided for five years, during which time he purchased one hundred and thirty-two and a half acres of land known as the old Grundy farm. He made the purchase in 1892 and took up his abode thereon in 1896. In 1904 he sold eighty acres to the Rochelle Railroad Company for two hundred and thirty-one dollars per acre and tlie same year he bought of Hermas Gray one hundred and sixty acres for which he paid one hundred and seventy-five dollars per acre. He gave seventy-five dollars per acre for the old Grundy farm in 1892. His business capacity is shown in his judicious investments as well as in the care which he bestows upon his property.

On the 9th of February, 1888, Mr. Skeffington was united in marriage fo Miss Teresa Coakley, who was born April 1, 1856, a daughter of Cornelius and Mary Ann Coakley, both natives of Ireland. They came to this country in the early '50s and always lived in Hall township. Bureau of farming up to the time of his death. Mr. and county, where the father followed the occupation Mrs. Skeffington have become the paients of tlirce children, Joseph, Francis and Anna, and the family are communicants of the Catholic church of Arlington.

Mr. Skefl:ington belongs to Woodmen lodge, No. 3111, of Arlington, and in politics is a democrat. He is now serving as postmaster of the village of Cherry and he has lield tlie office of school director in Westfield townsliip for nine years, being the incumbent at the present time. His good qualities have been manifest in his progressive citizenship as well as in his private business interests, and he deserves much credit for what he has accomplished as a farmer, his success being attributable entirely to his own labors and the assistance of his estimable wife, who has indeed been a faithful comjianion and helpmate to him on life's journey. The fact that many of his warmest friends are those who have known him from his boyhood days to the present is an indication that he has always so lived as to win uniform confidence and respect and he deserves the admiration of his fellowmen by reason of what he lias accomplished in the business world.

Church Of The Immaculate Conception

For a number of years previous to the formation of the present parish of Ohio the priests of Amboy and Dixon attended to the spiritual wants of the many Catholics living in the northern part of Bureau and the southern part of Lee counties. Mass was celebrated and the sacraments were administered at intervals in the Gugerty and O'Neil school houses and in the town hall. But in the year 1874 it was decided to build a church in the town of Ohio, and the work was undertaken by Father McDermott, who was at that time the pastor of Dixon. The exterior of the building was finished under Father McDermott's supervision.

On March 1, 1875, the Rev. P. J. Gormley assumed charge of the parish as its first pastor and took up the work of completing the church. He placed the stained glass memorial windows in the structure and also put in the handsome oak pews. The church was dedicated on November 14, 1875, by Bishop Foley, of Chicago, in whose diocese it then was. Father Gormley continued as pastor of the church till 1882, when he was succeeded by Rev. M. C. O'Brien. Father O'Brien labored zealously for the interests of his flock, and to him is due the credit for organizing the Father Mathew Society, which has done so much good, and which still flourishes as a parish society.

The first parochial residence was purchased by Father O'Brien, and continued to serve the various pastors who succeeded him till its destruction by fire in 1894. Father O'Brien's pastorate lasted till 1884, when Rev. J. A. Fanning assumed charge. Father Fanning made many improvements in the church during the four years of his pastorate. The church bell, the gift of a number of the parishioners, was placed in the tower in his time. In 1888 the Rev. James O'Rourke was appointed to succeed Father Fanning. Father 0"Rourke was a man of frail constitution, and in December of the vear of his appointment he was called to his reward.

Rev. B. H. Corle}- came to the parish in 188!) and remained its pastor till 1893. The beautiful main altar which adorns the church was purchased by Father Corley. Rev. H. W. Finch succeeded Father Corlev in 1892, and was pastor of the church till 1899, when he died. Father Finch was the last pastor to occupy the old parochial residence.

On March 12, 1899, Rev. R. F. Flynn, the present pastor, was appointed to the parish. During his pastorate he has erected the parochial residence, a beautiful brick structure, which was built in 1899. St. Joseph's Academy, also a brick building, erected in 190.3. and used by the children of the parish as a free graded and high school, taught by Sisters of Mercy of Ottawa, Illinois, and also in 1904 established a Home for the Aged, which is likewise conducted by the Sisters of Mercy. The i)arish as at present constituted comprises about ninety families.

Igxatius J. Jagodzixski

Ignatius J. Jagodzinski, a popular, respected and leading citizen of Spring vallev, who has been called to several positions of public trust, serving for three terms as city tieasurer, is also a leading merchant of the town, 9rd is today owner of a most extensive mercantile enterprise here. He was Ijorn in Poland, a son of Francis and Catherine (.Sment) Jagodzinski, who were likewise natives of Poland. The father came to the new world when his son Ignatius was but six years of age, and established his home m La Salle county, Illinois.

Ignatius J. Jagodzinski was educated in the public schools of La Salle county and in St. Francis Seminary, at Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and also in St. Viateur College. His education completed, he engaged in the drug business for a short time, after which he was employed in the office of the county clerk and of the probate clerk in Ottawa for two years. On the expiration of that period he came to Spring Valley in 1888 and cmbarked in general nierchandisinj, estat.<!ishing a store, which has grown to be the most extensive in this place. He carries a large and carefully selected line of goods, and has a constantly growing trade, which is accorded him in recognition of his conformity to a high standard of commercial ethics as well as his reasonable prices. Mr. Jagodzinski is also a director and vice president of the Spring Valley City Bank, and has the agency for steamships and for foreign banking and exchange. He is likewise agent for various fi:'c insurance companies, and his business iniercsis are -hus extensive and varied. They are likewise profitable, owing to his capable control and keen discernment.

Mr. Jagodzinski has also figured prominently in political circles in Bureau county, and has done everything in his power to promote the advancement and prosperity of his city and section of the state. For three terms he has served as city treasurer, and has filled other offices of public trust. He is a popular man, respected b/ all and his good qualities are many.

Franklin S. Rogers

Franklin S. Rogers is one of the self-made men of Bureau county, who at an early age started out in life on his own account and tl.rough unremitting toil and business integrity has worked his way steadily upwai'd, gaining the respect of his fellowmen by his honorable method.? and at the same time winning a comfortable competence. He resides in La iloille towiishiji and is today the owner of six hundrt-d and seventv-five acres. He was born in Morgan count)', Ohio, February 27, 1836, while his residence in Bureau county dates from 1866. His jarents were John and Susan (Antrim) Rogers, natives of Burlington, New Jersey. On leaving that state '.hey located in Ohio and afterward came to Illinois, where their remaining days were passed. In t::oir family were eight children: J. Antrim, Sarah W.. Franklin S., Hannah, William, Edwin, Mary and Charles.

Reared in the state of his nativity, Franklin S. Rogers aequir 'd his education in the public .schools there, and when he put aside hi-; ti'xt-l)ooks became a factor in business life in connection with the hardware trade. He was married in Ohio in 18.57 to Miss Rebecca J. Yocum, who was born in Belmont county, that state, in 1S;?9. She, too, was educated in the public .schools there, and was a daughter of Thomas and Saiah Yocum, who were natives of Belmont county, where tbev spent their entire li\es, dying at the place of their birth at a good old age.

In the year 18(i6 Mr. Rogers brought his family to Illinois, settling in Bureau county. Tnto him and his wife were Itorn two daughters: Mrs. Susan W. Grisell and Mrs. Mary C. Grisell. .\fter coming to this state he turned his attv'ntion to farming, settling upon the place wher" he now lives. He first had eighty acres, but he owns altogether six hundred and seventy-five acres of choice land, of which thiH: hundred and twenty acres is in Iowa. In 1866 he purchased land at fifty dollars per acre, which is now valued at from one hiiiidre<l and seventy-five to two hundred dollars per acre. The place is improved with good buildings and all modern e(|uipment8, and he is today one of the most substinilinl fnrriiers of the community.

Mr. Rogers was formerly a merrbeT of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, but his business interests have oecvjjied so much of his attention that lie has had no time for active identification with fraternal interests. In polrics he is a prohibitionist, having given his support for eighteen years to the party which embodies his ideas on the tem])eranco (|ue.stion. lie was reared in the faith of th(! Society of Friends or Qual:er», to which he still adheres, but is not a member o* any church. His life has been } cnorable, his action's manly and sincere and his principles wortliv of emulation. The years have brought him successes as the result of his perseverance and industry, and in all of his business transactions he }ias been found thoroughly trustworthy and relial'le As a neighbor and friend he is held in high esteem, and he well deserves mention in this volume as one of the representative agriculturists o*' the county.

Howard G. Gibbs

Honored and respected by all, there is no resident of Princeton who occupies a more enviable position in mercantile and financial circles than Howard G. Gibbs, member of the hardware firm of H. D. Gilibs & Sons. It is true tliat he entered upon a business already established, but many a man of less resolute spirit would have failed in enlarging the scope and activities of the concern. His position in public regard is due not only to the success he has achieved but also to the straightforward, honorable methods that he has ever followed and which place him in the front ranks of those men who while gaining prosperity also help to hold firm the public faith in business integrity.

He was born in Princeton. November 25, 1863, a son of Ilenrj' D. Gibbs, who is too well known in Bureau county to need introduction to the readers of this volume, having for many years been closely associated with industrial and commercial life here. He is a native of Chenango county, New York, and came to Princeton in 1857. He accepted the position of manager of a tanning factory, which was then one of the leading industries of the city and later he engaged in the cooperage business, which he carried on until 1879, when he turned his attention to the hardware trade, establishing the store which has since been conducted as one of the leading mercantile enterprises of the city. In 1890 he admitted his sons, Howard G. and Harrv A., to a partncrslup, under the firm style of H. D. Gibbs & Sons. The father is still active and takes an interest in the business which he established and which he has seen grow and prosper until it is now one of the most extensive in this section of the state. In early manhood he was married to Miss Nancy Windsor, a native of Chenango county. New York, in which state the werlding was celebrated prior to their removal to Illinois.

Howard (i. Gibbs was educated in the grammar and high schools of Princeton and on putting aside his text-books joined his father in business. He mastered the trade in principle and detail and in 1890 was admitted to a partnership. He brought to the concern the enterprise, energy and ambition of a young man, which, added to the broad experience of the father, has made this one of the strong commercial combinations of Princeton.

Howard G. Gibbs has also been active in municipal affairs, wielding a wide influence on public thought and action. He has served for two terms as alderman of the second ward and for four years was supervisor of Princeton township. In .Vjjril, 1906, he was elected chairman of the board of supervisors and is the present incumlient in the office. With a sense of conscientious obligation, he discharges his official dutie.", and brings to bear in their performance the executive force and keen discrimination of a practical business man.

In 1887, Mr. Gibbs was united in marriage to Miss Mary K. \\'aldron. a daughter of Z K. Waldron, of Chicago, formerly a respected resident of Bureau county, of which he w-as a pioneer. He served at one time as sheriff of the county and has long been a res]iected and influential resident here. He is a native of New Y'ork, as is his wife, who bore the maiden name of Margaret Archbald. Mr. and IMrs. Gibbs are prominent socially and ilr. Git)lis has attained high rank in ilasonic circles. He belongs to Bureau lodge F. & A. JI. i to Princeton chapter. No. 28, R. A. il. ; to Orion council, R. & S. M. ; to Temple commnndery. No. 20, K. T. ; and to the Order of the Eastern Star. He has held many offices in Masonry, was worshipful master of Bureau lodge for six years and eminent commander of the commandery for two years. He holds membership in the Congregational ch\ir(h and is president of the Congregational Church Club. His interest extends to those various movements which work for civic virtue, for progressive development in the city and for intellectual and moral advancement. The business policy he has ever followed has been that of straightforward dealing. His life typifies the spirit of the age - the spirit of American progress. Prosperity has come to bin) as a natural sequence of industry and application and his success bears testimony to his rare judgment in business affairs.

Harry F. Corey is the owner of a valuable farm property of three hundred and twenty acres in Dover township, and is therefore numbered among the prosperous yt ung business men of Bureau county. Though he inherited a portion of his property, he has added to it, and has made many modern improvements, being todav accounted one of the progressive and highly re-:peeted farmers of the coiniiniiuty. His birth occurrod in this county, September 20, 187G. He was the only child born to Haniilton F. and Rachel (Martin) Corey, the latter 3 native of Ohio. The father, however, had beea previously married to Esther Mead, and unto them were born five children. The father was born '.n Cayujra county. New York, .lidy 1'. ISU. and in 1S35 emigrated t^. ilorsran county. Illinois, w.hence he came to linrcau county in 1850, locating in Ohio township.

.\t the usual a^e Harry F. Corey entered the common schools of the county, wherein he niasieri>d the elementary branches oi' learning. His training at farm labor was not meager, and he early became familiar with the best methods of tilling the soil and caring for the crops. Tn early manhood he wedded Miss Frona Huffaker, the wedding i)eing celebrated on the I'-'th of July. 18L>9. She was bovn in Bureau county, Deceniix-r 31. 1874, and is a daughter of Cyrus and Anna E. (Sabin) Hulfaker. also natives of Bureau county. In their family were fourteen children, of whom Mrs. Corey was the third in order of birth, and she supplemented her early educational privileges by study in Dover Academy. The home of Mi-, and Mrs. Corev has be>-n blessed with one child. Hazel E.. born January 2. 1900.

The family hon:e is an attractive residence, situated in the mids: of a beautiful grov" of shade trees and surrounded by three hunjred and twenty acres of choice land, which i-esponds readily to the care and labor bcr,towed upon it. Mr. Corey inherited a large share of his property from his father, but has added to it in numy ways, and is thoroughly in touch with the prDgressive spirit of the times. He keeps a fine autimobile and his farm in all its equipments is modern in every respect. Wliilc he leads a busy .ind active life, lie is relieved of the necessity for strenuous, uni-emitting labor, and has time fo;' the cultivation of those social and refining influences which develop character and add to the aesihctic and moral tone of the Roth he and hi.; wife are members of the Methodist I'role^lant church, and in politics he is a republican, but the honors and emoluments of office have no attraction for him, although in a private capacity he is never neglectful of his duties o[ citizenship, 'ind has given his aid and co-operation to many movements for the general good. Borh he and his wife are representatives of prominent old families of Bureau county, and with pleasure we pr'sent to our readers this record.

Charles C. Con Ley

CHARLES C. CON LEY. Charles C. Conley, who is engaged in rarining two hundred and forty acres of land in JIacon township, where ht is also breeding Norman and Percheron horses, was born in this townsliip, I ii - camber 3, ISO"). T!is parents were George \\'. and

Tryphena (Sturtcvant) Conley. His maternal grandfather. Church Sturtcvant, was born at Center Harbor, New Hampshire, June 30, 1S(I7, was a son of Hosaiah and Sally (Paine) Sturtcvant, and was of Welsh lineage. Fami'y tradition has it that a widow and lier live sons came from Wales to America at an early day in th^j colonization of the new world and settled at Be.fast, ilassachusetts. Hosaiah Sturtcvant was a Revolutionary soldier throughout the war for national independence, and, being captured at Stony Point, was imprisoned for a year in Ihe old sugar relineiy in New York city, but was finally exchanged and returned to liis home in Halifax. He subsequently removed to New Hamj)s}iire, settling there in the midst of an unbroken wilderness. He took up his abode on an island of about three hundred acres in Squawin Lake and began the cultivation of the land with the assistance of hi? son, (Jhurch Sturtevant, who remained at Center Harbor until he was twenty-one years of age, during which time he attended the cdiimoii .schools and worked on the farm. He was married in March, 1827, to Hannah, daughter of Jerry Brown, of Center Harbor, and in 1831 removed to I'eacham, \'eniiont, where he carried on agricultural pursuits. After about thirteen years he trailed his farm in Vermont for some wild prairie land in Illinois and started westward in June, 1844, settling in Osceola townshij). Slaik counly. For five yeu's lie lived in a rented cabin and then built a barn, in which he lived for one winter and two summers. He bought the first lumber that was shipped on the Illinois canal, and built a part of his residence, to which, however, he made additions froiii time to time in later years. His home farm consisted of one hundred and sixty acres of land, 'nclosed with an osage orange hedge, and in addit'on to cultivating the fields he set on^ a line apjile .irchard. and also had many cherry tices ujjon liis place. LTnto Mr. and Mrs. Sturtevant were born eii;lit children, including Tryphena. who became M'-s. Conley.

George W. Conley. father of Charles C. Conley, was born in Cayuga county, New York. June 2, 1829, and died at his home in Huda. .\pril 21, 1901. in his seventy-second year, lie was a son of Robert Conley, and was one of a family of eighteen children. In the spring of 18r)(t. at the age of twenty-one. he left his native heath and came to Illinois, settling in Osceola township. Stark county. This state was then the "far west." and many hardsli:ps and privations were to be borne in the country, which at that time was sparsely settled. The virgin sod was to be subdued, the cabin was to be built. l''e clearing made and roads and bridges had to be constnicted. There were a muititudc of hardships to be endured if the settler would enjoy the advantages known to the older east, and Mr. J^onley resolutely undertook the task before him. He wa.v married .Iiiiie 2, lS."i3, on his twenty-fourth birthday, to Trypliena .\. SturU'vanl. who was l)orn .it Center

Harbor, New Hampshire. March 11, 1828, and was the eldest of seven children. With her parents she emigrated from the old Granite state to Illinois in 1844, it requiring weeks to make the trip from New England. The fail following their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Conley removed to Henry, Illinois, settling on what is known as Crow Meadow, where they resided for three years, when in 1856 they bought a farm in Bureau county, south of Walnut Grove, in Macon township. For twenty-five years they resided there and then removed to Buda, where, with the exception of five years spent in Nebraska, they resided until called to their final rest. With these advantages they managed, through their economy and thrift, to gather a competence for their declining years and to leave a comfortable legacy ti; their children. Both Mr. and Mrs. Conley became members of the Methodist Episcopal church on the 8th of March, 1873, and remained faithful to I'cs teachiags and to their professions, taking an active and helpful interest in church work and contributing generously to its support. Mrs. Conley passed away on the 10th of February, 1901, at the age of seventytvs'o years, ten months and twenfv-nine days, her husband surviving her for only i brief period, as his death occurred on the 21st of \pril following. They were a mosi: highly esteemel couple, worthy the regard ot all who knew them and the respect which was so freely accorded them. They were the parents of nine children : Abbie, of Buda : Frank, of Princeton; Charles C. ; Berr, of Waco, Nebraska : Mrs. Nettie Zink, of Buda ; and Isabella, Jerome, Edward and Ida, who have passed away. Of this number Edward died July 9, 1885, in Waco, Nebraska. He had been married in the previous spring and removed to the west with his bride. His remains were brought back to Bureau county for interment. The daugbter Isabella died April 8, 1896, at the age of forty two years. She was born in Henry. Illinois, and was a resident of Bureau county from 1856, while of the Methodist Episcopal church she was a consistent member from 18~3 until li(r death.

Charles C. Conley, whose name introduces this record, attended ihe public schools in the winter months and worked on the home farm daring the summer seasons. His time was thus passed until he reached adult age, when he began farming for himself on one huiidred and twenty acres of land. At the present time he is farming two hundred and fortv' acres of land, and is accounted one of the enterprising agriculturists of the community, owing to his capable and progressive methods. He breeds some Norman Percheron horses, but his attention is chiefly given to the development and cultivation of the fields, although he is also engaged in the raising of Poland China hogs.

On the 11th of January, 1889, was celebrated the marriage of Charles C. Conley and Miss Grace Smith, a native of Buda and a da ighter of Henry Smith. She died on her second weddin" anniversary, leaving one son, Charles S. Conley. On the 30th of January, 1894, Mr. Ccnley was again married, his second union being with Lizzie F. Sowers, who was born in Perry county, Pennsylvania, August !J6, 1865, a daughter of Emanuel and Catherine (Fleisher) Sowers, likewise natives of Perry county, where the}' wera married. The father was born September 1, 1840, and the mother October 17, 1837. He is a carpenter by trade, and was for many years engaged in business as a contractor and builder, but at present is engaged in the insurance business. He has served as school director, is an advocate of political principles as expounded by the demii ratic l-art}', and is a member of the Lutheran church. Of his seven children six are now living: Mrs. Conley, Silas, Elsie J., Emma T., Carrie E. and Harry 0. Three children have been born unto Mr. Conley and his second wife: Hai'old S., born Alarch 11, 1896; Marion E., Mav 11, 1901, and Edna Mav, November 27, 190.3.

Mr. Conley voUs with the repu'ilican party, and is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. His life has been honorable and upright, his actions manly and .«incere, and as a lifelong resident of ilacon township he has become widelv known, while his many g 'od qualities and sterling traits of character have gained him tho confidence and good will of all with whom hv has been associated.

Edward Guither

Edward Guither, who owns, occupies and operates a valuable farm of two hundred nnd sixtyseven acres in Walnut township, is one of Illinois' native sons, having been born in La Salle county, July 25, 1850. His parents were Henry and Barbara (Pope) Guither, both of whom were natives of Germany. They became residents of Lu Salle county in 1848 and the father followed farming as a life work, thus providing for his family. A nimibor of years prior to hi? death ho removed to Walnut, where he retired from active business life, spending his remaining days in the enjoyment of the fruits of his former labor. He died June 18. 1905, while his wife passed away September 15, 1888.

Edward Guither, whose name introduces this record, completed his education in Naperville College after having studied in the district schools of Walnut township. He pursued his college course during the years 1872 and 1873 and after putting a.'iide his text-books began farming in Walnut township on section 1, where he ha.* since resided. .\s a companion and lielpmate for life's journev he cho.^e Miss Caroline Rapp, to whom he was married on the 20th of September, 1876. She was born June 16. 1853, in tliis county, a daughter of John and Barbara (Fauble) Rapp, both of whom were natives of Germany. They became early residents of this part of the state, where they arrived prior to 1850. They were farming people and lived near La Moille, Illinois, in Lee county, where they remained until called to their final rest, the father passing away February 5, 1861, and the mother, who was born June 19. 1833. died in 1884. Mr. and Mrs. Guither have a family of four children: Samuel W.. Cicdrge H.. Ezra P. and Florence A. M., all yet under the parental roof. The parents and children are members of the Evangelical church of Red Oak. The two sons. George and Ezra, have been attending college at Naperville. Illinois, and ^Ir. Guither is providing all of his children with excellent educational privileges. The family is prominent sociallv and the hospitality of their own home is greatly enjo\ed by their many friends.