Bureau County, Illinois - Biographical sketches, 1906 (part 5 of 28)

He is a supporter of tlie Wesleyan Methodist church and is interested in all that pertains to the progress and welfare of his community. His life has been well spent, winning for him the respect and confidence of his fellowmen and his labors, honorable and upright, have brought to him prosperity. He has always been a bard working man and yet is today remarkably well preserved. His attention is yet given to the supervision of his place, the fields, however, being rented by his son and son-in-law. He is the possessor of two hundred and three acres of fine farming land, which is very valuable, and in former years he handled some stock, but is now out of the business, leaving tlie care of the farm to others. His memory forms a coiiiu'cting link between the primitive past and the progressive present. He retains many vivid mental pictures of conditions tliat existed in Bureau county in pioneer times and he can relate many interesting incidents of the early days, when the nearest neighbors were miles apart, when one could ride for miles over the prairie without coming to a house or fence to impede his progress and when the work of development seemed scarcely begun, but the years have wrought many changes and the labors of man in the richly tilled fields and thriving towns have made this county one of the progressive districts of the state.

Edward Roe Virden

The pioneers of a country, the founders of a business, the originators of any undertaking that will promote the material welfare or advance the educational, social and moral influence of a community deserve the gratitude of humanity. The name of Edward Roe Virden, now on the roll of Bureau county's honored dead, long figured in connection with public interests here and was a synonym for business integrity and enterprise. He made good use of his opportunities and prospered from year to year, conducting all business matters carefully and successfully, and in all his acts displaying an aptitude for successful management. He never permitted the accumulation of wealth to affect in any way his actions toward those less successful than he and always had a cheerful word and pleasant smile for those with whom he came in contact. He was born in Norwich, Sluskingum county. Ohio, March S3, 1836, and was a son of Jerome and Sarah (Fleming) Virden, the father born in Maryland, the mother in Ireland. The father was for years engaged in the shoo business in his native state, but later became a contractor on the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, doing work along the hills near the Ohio river. On the comi)lction of that task he removed with his family by team to Mount Pleasant, Iowa, where he died in 1867. The mother died at our subject's home while visiting here and is buried in Oakland cemetery at Princeton.

Edward Roe Virden spent the days of his boyhood and youth in his Ohio home and in 1854 accompanied his parents on their removal to Mount Pleasant, Iowa, but after a year came to I'rinceton on a visit to his uncle, Benjamin Laird, a druggist of this place, and was so well pleased with the city and its prospects that he decided to remain. He therefore sought emoloyment and secured a position as clerk in the hardware store of A. S. & E. C. Chapman, in whose employ he continued for about six years, thoroiiglily mastering the business. lie commenced in a humble capacity and worked his way upward until lie held the mo.st responsible position in the establishment, having for a time the entire charge of the store, the only one of the kind in the county and doing an extensive business.

The Civil war being now in progress, Mr. Virden, whose patriotic spirit was aroused by the continued attempt of the south to overthrow the Union, offered his services to the government in 1862 and enlisted for one hundred davs as a member of Company A, Sixty-ninth Regiment of Illinois Volunteers. He was commissioned lieutenant and on the completion of his first term he returned home, but again in 1864 he offered his services to the government and raised a company at Princeton, which became Company A of the One Hundred and Thirty-ninth Regiment of Illinois Volunteers. He was chosen captain and with the regiment was mustered into service at Peoria in June, 1864. He was afterward engaged on active duty in. Missouri and Kentucky, following General Price, who had been making a raid through those states. Captain Virden was usually in command of his company and inspired his men with much of his own valor, but was detailed to carry dispatches from Cairo to New Orleans. These dispatches were in cipher from President Lincoln to General Canby. Captain Virden went down the river, making four or five trips, which were extremely hazardous because of the many guerrillas who infested the country and who from the river banks were watching for favorable opportunities of making away with the Yankee. He escaped all harm, however, and served out his term of enlistment, after which he returned to his home, having been mustered out at Peoria in November, 1864.

Previous to entering the service Captain Virden, in 1862, had engaged in the hardware business in the north end of Princeton and upon his return he resumed the conduct of the store, which he actively managed until 1876. After six years of clerkship, in which he had saved one thousand dollars, he invested in the business, which for three years thereafter was conducted under the firm style of Richardson Brothers & Virden. During the succeeding three years it was Shugart & Virden and Mr. Virden then became sole proprietor and so continued until he disposed of his stock in 1876. His hardware business was a large and profitable enterprise. In 1873 his place was destroyed by fire, his entire stock being consumed with a loss of over ten thousand dollars, on which was but little insurance. He was not disheartened, however, but resolutely set to woik to retrieve his lost possessions, collected outstanding bills and soon recovered. During this time he erected the large brick building now occupied by the Priestly Hardware Company.

In 1875, associated with Captain Clark Grey, Captain Virden purchased the controlling interest in the Fanners National Bank which had been organized a year or two previously. He was elected president and Captain Grey cashier. The capital stock of file concern, which was then fifty thousand dollars, was soon afterward increased to seventv-five thousand dollars and later to one hun- dred and ten thousand dollars. The business of the bank, unfler the wise and conservative management of (,'aptain \'irden, grew steadily until the institution had the largest capital, surplus and individual denosits of any bank in Bureau or adjoining counties. The dividends of the bank had almost paid back the original stock when Captain Yirden, in 1S94, withdrew from the presidency, at which time the stock was valued at two hundred thousand dollars, while the deposits amounted to two hundred and fifty thousand dollars, with surplus and undivided profits of ninety thousand dollars.

For eighteen years Captain Virden gave his attention almost wholly to the bank, also, however, loaning money on real estate in Kansas and Nebraska and making some investments there from time to time. He owned between five and six thousand acres in those states, together with about three hundred acres in Bureau county, and after he resigned from the presidency of the bank in 189-i he devoted his entire attention to looking after his real-estate interests until his death. He never speculated but confined his attention entirely to the legitimate channels of commerce and of banking. His business enterprise was marked and his keen sagacity and foresight were widely acknowledged, so that he was seldom at error in matters of business Judgment, but on the contrary placed his investments judiciously. He made extensive improvements in Princeton and erected here the finest hall in the city, and the material and business development of Princeton was attributable in no small degree to his efforts.

In politics Captain Virden was a loyal and uncompromising republican throughout his entire life, receiving many of his political doctrines under the teaching of Owen Lovejoy. He lacked a few months of Ijeing of legal age when Fremont ran for the presidency, as the first candidate of the newly organized republican party, and therefore did not have the opportunity of voting for the old pathfinder, but at each succeeding presidential election after that time he voted for the men whose names were at the head of the republican ticket. His first vote for congressman was cast in 1860 for Thomas J. Henderson, who so long and ably served this district. From 1860 until his death Captain Yirden was a delegate to nearly every convention of the party, including local, state and national. He was supervisor for several years and for many years a member of the high school board.

On the 26th of April. 1860. Captain Yirden was married to ]\Iiss Anna Thompson, of Cambridge, Ohio, with whom he had attended school in their childhood. The youthful attachment was strengthened as the years went by and as soon as he had made preparations for having a home of his own Captain Yirden returned to Ohio for his wife. Immediately following their marriage he brought her to the middle west and they afterward made their home in Princeton. Unto Captain and Mrs. Virden were born five children, four daughters and a son, of whom one daughter died in infancy, and the son has also passed away. The others are: Nellie P., the wife of Charles' Sapp, now living in Princeton; and Martha and Mary, twins. The former is the wife of Joseph A. Brigham of Princeton, while Mary is living at home with her mother. All of the children were well educated in the Princeton high school.

Fraternally Captain Virden was a Master Mason, having been initiated into the blue lodge when but twenty-one years of age. He was of a very quiet, home loving disposition and counted no jiersonal sacrifice on his part too great if it would enhance the happiness or promote the welfare of his wife and children. He died July 20, 1901, and the county mourned the loss of one of its most respected and worthy residents. Everywhere he was known he was honored and his good qualities gained for him the respect and confidence of all with whom he was associated. Mrs. Yirden is a member of the Methodist Episcopal ch\irch, to the support of which she contributes liberally. She has a beautiful home at No. 425 Elm Place, Princeton, where she and her daughter Mary reside. It is one of the most beautiful places in the city. She visits her old home at Cambridge, Ohio, quite often, for she has a sister and a halfsister living there, and she also has a half-sister. Miss Janie Thompson, who is living in Princeton. She likewise has a brother, J. W. Thompson, in the International Hotel at Laredo, Texas. More than a half century has passed since Captain Yirden came to Princeton and in his death the community lost one of its representative men - a man whom to know was to respect and honor. In his private and public relations his influence was given for social progress and for the elevation and welfare of mankind, and he wrought along lines which, while contributing to individual success, also proved a factor in public prosperity as well.

Mark A. Stivek

MARK A. STIVEK. Mark A. Stiver, of Walnut, a leading member of the Bureau county Ijar who through an extensive clientage has been connected with much important litigation tried in the courts of Bureau, Lee and Whiteside counties, was born in Goshen, Indiana, February 26, 1863. His parents are J. Adams and Mary L. (Sherwood) Stiver, the former a native of Ohio and the latter of New York. Afler some years' residence in Indiana, they came to Illinois about thirty-six years ago and the father engaged in farming until he retired from business life to enjoy a well earned rest in Walnut, removing to the village about a year ago. The old homestead farm which he operated, and

Mark A. Stiver, brought to Bureau county in his early boyhood, began his education in the district schpols, later continued his studies in Fulton College, Fulton, lUinois, and supplemented his preliminary mental training by a course in law in the Michigan University, at Ann Arbor, where he won the degree of Master of Laws in 1884. The same year he was admitted to the Michigan bar and also to the Illinois bar and locating in Walnut has since engaged in practice, where he has had a constantly growing clientage. His knowledge of legal principles is broad and accurate and the care with which he prepares his cases insures many successes in his trial of cases before the courts. His clientage comes from Bureau, Lee and Whiteside counties and he has won favorable regard from his brethren of the fraternity by reason of his fairness, his courtesy to the court and his conformity to a high standard of professional ethics. His practice, however, does not represent his entire business interests for he is the owner of five hundred and twenty acres of valuable land, and considerable real estate in Chicago.

Mr. Stiver was married, in November, 1887, U> Agnes M. Wilson. Her father was a native of Scotland and about thirty-five years ago removed from Canada to Bureau county, where he died during the early girlhood of his daughter. Her mother, Mrs. Elizabeth J. Wilson, was born in Vermont and is now living in Walnut with her children. Mr. and Mrs. Stiver have two sons : Arthur A., born August 3, 1890; and Neil W., December 27, 1895.

In his fraternal relations Mr. Stiver is a Mason, belonging to Walnut lodge. No. 722, A. F. & A. M. ; and Princeton chapter, No. 28, E. A. M. His name is also on the membership rolls of Walnut lodge. No. 493, K. P., and in his political views he is a republican. He is, however, without political aspirations but manifests a public-spirited interest in general progress and advancement in the town and county in which he resides. His practice, precludes tlie possibility of extended activity in political work and his legal business has been marked by a steady increase which indicates the growth of public opinion in his favor and of recognition of his skill and ability in the interpretation and correct application of legal principles.

Hon. Simon Elliott

HON. SIMON ELLIOTT. Hon. Simon Elliott, who as a representative citizen and pioneer settler occupies a high place in the estimation of his fcllowmen and who at one time was honored by election to the state legislature, now resides in Princeton. He was born February 10, 1827, in Hamilton county, (Jliio, and is therefore in his eightieth year. His parents were Simon and Maria (Robinson) Elliott, also natives of Ohio. The paternal grandfather, John Elliott, was a native of Ireland, born in 1702, and was of Scotch-Irish lineage. When he was twenty-two years of age his father told liim to come to America and spend one year here and if he liked the country he was to write back liome and tell his father to do something which was impossible to do, the interpretation of which was that the family should come to America. This method of notifying the father of the desirability of this country as a place of residence was used because of the fact that the sons were subject to three years' service in the army and if the government knew of the intention of the family to remove to the new world means would be taken to prevent the emigration. John Elliott accordingly came to the United States in 1784 on a sailing vessel, the Lazy Mary. A year later he wrote back to his father that he did not have a very good house here and asked his father to send his house over to America to him. This was the means employed to indicate to the father that the family should come to the new world. They were quite wealthy people and after receiving a favorable report tiiey started for this country, the party consisting of father, two sons and five daughters. As they neared the American coast a storm struck the ship, Stewart, and wrecked the vessel in Mahogany bay off the coast of New Jersey, and all were drowned except the two sons. When they saw that the vessel was going to be wrecked the father asked the sons if they could not get ashore with the bags of gold they had brought with them, but it was impossible for them to do this and save their own lives. They had brought with them valuable goods and a considerable amount of money. The sons managed to reach the shore but were robbed by wreckers when the goods were washed on shore. These two brothers, William and Simon, afterward found their brother John, the grandfather of our subject, in Pennsylvania. William settled near Steubenville, Ohio, while Simon settled on Copperish creek in Fulton county, Illinois, where he died.

John Elliott, the grandfather, was married in Pennsylvania, in 1786, to Miss Mary Miller, a lady of German descent. They settled at a mill site on the Miami river near Cincinnati, Ohio, at which time their possessions consisted of a horse, a cow, an ax and a few other implements. John Elliott worked hard, cleared the land and paid for his farm. He also built a dam across the river and erected a flourmill, a sawmill and a distillery. He likewise built a two story stone house which is still standing. The products raised in that locality or manufactured in the mill were sent down the river to New Orleans and many of the dilTiculties and hardships of pioneer life were experienced. In the family were three sons

Simon Eij.Iott

Simon Elliott, Sr;, the eldest son in the family of John Elliott, was born in 1788 on the old homestead on the Miami river in Ohio and was there reared and spent his entire life. He engaged in farming and in operating the flourmill. sawmill and distillery and was a very industrious, energetic man. He married Jliss Maria Stinson Eobinson, who was born in 1799, and their union was blessed with six children, five sons and a daughter, of whom two are living, namely: Simon, and James F., who reside in Calhoun county, Iowa. The father was quite a popular gentleman, widely and favorably known, and was a Mason in high standing. He faithfully served his country during the war of 1812 and was afterward captain of a militia company. He died in Ohio of a cancer in 1854 and his wife, long surviving him, passed away in 1881. They were both earnest members of the New Light church.

Simon Elliott was educated at Parker's academy in Ohio, which institution furnished the best scholastic opportunities to be enjoyed in those days. He remained in the Buckeye state until twenty-one years of age, when in company with a companion he drove from Cincinnati to Princeton, Illinois, in 1848. Here he began farming and in 1849 entered from the government one hundred and sixty acres of land in section 7, Dover township. Bureau county. He still owns this property and has a land warrant for it from the government, which was given him in 1851. He broke the prairie and built a home and he now has a well improved farm, which he brought under a high state of cultivation, successfully continuing its improvement for many years.

On the 23d of April, 1856, Mr. Elliott secured a companion and helpmate for life's journey by his marriage to Miss Sarah A. McCoy, of Woodford county, niinois, who came to Princeton in 1856. She was a daughter of William McCoy, who was a strong abolitionist and took an active part in conducting the underground railroad. He removed with his family from Ripley, Ohio, to Illinois in the spring of 1848 and was a prominent and influential resident of this state at an early day. Both he and his wife are now deceased. In the family of Mr. and Mrs. Elliott were six children, four of whom are still living: Edwin F., a railroad conductor on the Santa Fe Pailroad, now residing at Kansas City; Alfred S., Mho was drowned at the age of eight years while swimming in the pond on the home farm ; Kate, the wife of Harry A. Gibbs, of Princeton; Lillian, the wife of Burke Y. Benson, of Tampa, Florida; Minnie, who is living with her brother in Kansas City; and Xora, who died of a cancer in the eye when twenty months old.

Princeton, where he has since lived, enjoying a well earned rest, while the comforts of life are secured to him through the good income which he derives from his farm. Long interested in political questions affecting the welfare of comity, state and nation, he was elected to the legislature on the greenback ticket by a majority of thirtyone hundred and fifty-eight, and served for one term. He was one of ten representatives of the party in the general assembly of 1879. For four years he served as a member of the state board of agriculture and for the same length of time was vice president of this district. He was also supervisor for several terms from his old home in Dover township, was one of the three building commissioners who built the courthouse, and on one occasion was candidate for sheriff on the democratic ticket. His official service has ever been characterized by unfaltering fidelity to duty and a ready comprehension of the work that devolves upon him in this connection. He was at one time a member of the Grange and of the Sons of Temperance.

He now occupies a comfortable home in the northern part of Princeton. He stands well as a representative man of the county and worthy pioneer, occupying a high place in the regard of all who know him. His memory goes l3ack to the primitive epoch in the development of this part of the state when much of the land was unimproved and when agricultural, industrial and commercial progress had been carried forward to only a slight extent. He has been interested in all the changes which time and man have wrought for the betterment of the county and is well worthy of a place among the leading citizens.

Geoege Frederick Boyden

George Frederick Boyden, a hardware merchant of Shcllield and a son of Chai'lcs II. and Cafherine (Gunkle) Boyden, was born October 11, 1862. His father became a resident of Sheffield in 1855 and first engaged in clerking in a hardware store, after which he carried on business on his own account in the same line, so continuing until his death, which occurred in 1892. His connection with the hardware trade of the city therefore covered about thirty-seven years and in business circles he sustained an unassailable rcnutation.

Reared in his native town, George F. Boyden attended the public schools and the high school and later entered the Northern Illinois College at Fulton, Illinois. Subsequently he attended Cornell College at Mount Vernon, Iowa, for a time until called home on ai-count of illness of his father to take charge of the business in 1886. Returning to his home, he was admitted to partnership by his father under the firm style of C. H. Boyden & Son, which connection was continued until the death of the senior partner.

since winch time the store has been conducted under the name of G. F. Boydcn. He carries a large and carefully selected line of shelf and heavy hardware and enjoys a good patronage, which is accorded him in recognition of his honorable business methods and the efforts which he puts forth to meet the wishes of his patrons in every particular.

On the :th of April, 1886, was celebrated the marriage of George F. Boyden and Miss Daisy Williams, a daughter of Thomas Williams, of Eaton Rapids, llichigan, who is connected with the Michigan Central Railroad. Two children have graced this marriage : Catherine Esther, who was born in 1887 and since graduating from the Sheffield high school has been attending college in Galesburg, Illinois; and Phillip Williams, born in ilay, 1892, and now a student in the home schools.

Mr. Boyden and his family attend the Congregational church, of which he is a trustee. As coiincilman he has exercised his official prerogatives in support of many measures directly beneficial to the city, and whether in office or out of it he is known as one whose aid and co-operation may be counted upon to further the general good.

Andrew Gosse

On the pages of pioneer history in Bureau county appears the name of Andrew Gosse, who came to Princeton in 18.39 and for many years was closely associated with its business interests as a manufacturer of brick. lie was also one of the large landowners of Princeton township and his business affairs were of a character that contriliuted to general progress and improvement as well as to individual success. His life record began in Eschweiler, Alsace, France, now a part of Germany, on the 28th of April, 1812, his parents being Franz and Mary A. Gosse, who were likewise natives of Germany. The father died in Detroit, Michigan, and the mother died in Lee county, Illinois, at the age of ninety-three years.

In the public schools of his native country Andrew Gosse acquired his education and was a young man of nineteen years when he accompanied his parents to the United States, landing at New York city in 18.31. They went direct to Detroit, Michigan, where Mr. Gosse of this review was employed in various ways until 1839. when in company with several other young men he made his way to Bureau county, where he began to learn the briekniaking trade. When he had mastered the business in principle and detail he establislied a brick manufactory on his own account in the vicinity of Princeton and for a long time owned the only brickyard in Bureau county. He also owned a brickyard at La Moille in this county and many of the wealthy men of Princeton and Bureau countv todav have been liis employes and made their start with him. As time passed his business grew in volume and importance and for several years he manufactured over one million brick per annum, this enterprise therefore becoming one of the important productive industries of this section of the state. He had a well equipped plant and carried on the manufacture along modern lines, producing a quality of brick which enabled him to secure a ready sale on the market for his product. He also engaged in farming and owned one of the largest farms in Princeton township, his extensive landed interests bringing him also a gratifying financial return.

Mr. Gosse was married in Woodford county, Illinois, on the 6th of June, 1843, to Miss Eva Wilz, a native of Bavaria, Germany, born March 22, 1823, and a daughter of Peter and Gertrude (Huth) Wilz. They came to the United States in 1838 and both died in this country. There were ten children born unto ^fr. and ^Irs. Gosse but only four are now living. Those who have passed away are Catherine; Clara who died at the age of six months ; Mary ; Andrew ; George, who died at the age of twenty-seven years; and Jacob P.. who was one of the leading business men of Princeton. He acquired a good education in the Princeton schools and then began tlie study of pharmacy, which he pursued both in Chicago and in Philadelphia. He was a graduate of a pharmaceutical college and upon his return to Princeton he became a partner in the firm of Woodruff \' Gosse, proprietors of a drug store on North ^fain street. There he engaged successfully and actively in business for several years and won a place among the substantial and representative merchants of the city. In 1ST8. on account of ill health, he made a trip to Europe and wa.s gone several months. He then returned with his health much improved. In 1883 he sold his interest in the drug store anil took up farming, which he continued with his brother George until the hitter's death, which occurred in 1888. Jacob P. died February 1(5. 1902. which was the occasion of deep and widespread regret, for he was a young man of many friends, his good qualities of heart and mind having endeared him to all with whom he came in contact. In early days he was n mcndiiT of the Princeton fire dejiartment and until his demise was a prominent representative of the Kiiisrlits of Pythias fraternity. The four living children of the family are Eva M., Sophia B., Frank H. and Julia. The first three make their home with their mother in Princeton, while Julia is the wife of Andrew Wilz and resides in Jancsville, Wisconsin.

'Nfr. Gosse continued successfully in the brick miiinifacturing business and in farming in Bureau county for many years, always making his home in Princeton. Eventually, however, he sold his manufacturing plant and retired from active business life, retaining, however, the ownership of hi^ fiinn. His lasl ilays were passed in the enjoy- ment of a rest which he had truly earned and richly deserved, for through a long period he was a most active and enterprising business man and so conducted his alTairs as to w'in honorable and gratifying prosperity. He was never an office seeker but gave stalwart support to the democratic party. Both he and his son Jacob were prominent in business circles of Princeton, became well-todo and had many friends in commercial and social circles. The death of Mr. Gosse occurred January 2, 1S90, and Princeton thereby lost one of its valuable and representative citizens. Mrs. Gosse is a member of the Catholic church. She owns a beautiful home at No. 510 West Peru street and she also owns two farms in Princeton township, which she rents. One of these, comprising three hundred acres, is very valuable farming land on section 7 and is only two miles northwest of Princeton. Through his carefully directed business interests and capable management Mr. Gosse was able to leave his family in very comfortable circumstances and one of the pleasures of his life came to him in thus providing for the welfare and happiness of his wife and children.

George P. Williams

George P. Williams, actively interested in farming operations on sections 33 and 25, Princeton township, is numbered among Bureau county's native sons, his birth having occurred in La Moille township, December 1, 1859. He is a son of Solomon and Frances (Prime) Williams and in the paternal line he is descended from one of the early families of Massachusetts of English origin. His father was bom in Amherst, Massachusetts, May 1, 1809. and was a son of Chester and Sarah (Howe) Williams, who were likewise natives of the Bav state, the former born January 27, 1772, and 'the latter on the 13th of January of the same year. They were married January 14. 1802. and Chester Williams died at Amherst, Massachusetts, February 6, 1822, while his wife long survived, passing away September 5, 1860. They had five children : Frederick, George, Mary, Solomon and Sarah, Init all are now deceased.

Solomon Williams of this family was reared to the life of the farm and, like nearly all New England boys, received the advantage of a good education. In 1836 he decided to seek his fortune in the west and with Illinois as his objective point, arrived in Chicago after a trip by canal and steamer around the great lakes. From Chicapo he w-alked to Ottawa and on to Peoria and finally made his way to Bureau county in search of a good location. He decided tluit Bureau county afforded better advantages than any he had found elsewhere and in the fall of that year he made preparation for having a home here by entering one hundred and sixty acres of land from the government. To this he added from time to time as his financial resources increased until he was the owner of four hundred and fiftyfour acres of fine land. He improved it all and lived upon that place for forty-nine years, making it one of the valuable farm properties of the county and winning for himself a position among the substantial farmers and men of afiluence in his community. He was unmarried at the time of his arrival in the county and lived alone in a little log house upon his farm until the following year, when he returned to his native state and in Platfield, Massachusetts, on the 5th of September, 1837, was joined in wedlock to Miss Harriet D. Smith, who was born in Hampshire county, Massachusetts, August 17, 1809. Soon afterward with his bride he returned to his farm in Bureau county, Illinois, where they began their domestic life. They traveled life's journey happily together for more than fifteen years and were then separated by the death of the wife, who passed away February 16, 1853, leaving one son, S. Dwight Allen, who married Elizabeth Reed and is now engaged in the real-estate business in Kansas. Thev have three children: Earl D., Harriet and Ada L. On the 24th of May, 1855, Mr. Williams was again married, his second union being with Frances Prime, who was born November 16, 1837, at Ticonderoga, New York, the only daughter of George ^\''. and Frances (Brown) Prime, the former a native of Vermont and the latter of ilassachusetts. Mrs. Frances Williams came from the Green Mountain state to Illinois at an early period in the development of this part of the state. By Mr. Williams' second marriage four children were born, three sons and a daughter. Maria E., born September 20, 1857, is the wife of Albert E. Porter, who was born December 28, 1844, and for a number of years she has lived in California; George P. is the next of the family; Frederick F., born October 31, 1864, lives at Hoquiam, Washington; and Sumner H., born March 22, 1866, is living in Estherville, Iowa. The mother died April 28, 1874, and the father survived until 1885.

George P. Williams, who is now the only representative of the family living in Bureau county, was educated in the common schools of this state and afterward spent two years as a student in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. He was reared to the occupation of farming and has made it his life work, his practical training and experience in youth serving him to good purpose when he started out in life on his own account. lie purcluased the place where he now resides in 1896 and owns two hundred and thirty acres of fine land, well improved. He has always handled stock, both raising and feeding, and is a breeder of shorthorn cattle and Poland China hogs, in which connection he is widely known, having shown ujion his farm some of the best stock raised in this part of the state.

As a companion and helpmate for lil'u"!! journey Mr. Williams chose Miss Bertha A. Cook, who was born in the house where she is now residing, a daughter of llenrv and Orilla S. (Richards) Cook. Her lather was born in that part of Genesee county. New York, which is now Living-ston county, April 22. 1832. and was a son of Deacon Caleb and Lucy (Clapp) Cook, the former a native of Hadley, Massachusetts, and the latter of Northampton, ^Massachusetts, her family being among the early settlers of New England and of English descent. Their marriage was celebrated in Northampton. January 30, 1830. Deacon Caleb Cook learned the brickmaker"s trade in earlv life, but followed farming some years jjrior to his removal to the west and never afterward resumed his trade. In October, 1834, when this was a wild and largely uninhabited district, he arrived in Bureau county, accompanied by his wife and two children, having driven the entire distance from New York. He had when he reached here a few household goods, his team and a capital of live hundred dollars. He located about four miles southeast of Princeton, where he secured four hundred and eighty acres of land, but soon sold one hundred and sixty acres to his brother-in-law. He resolutely undertook the task of reclaiming the wild tract for the purposes of civilization in subjugating the wilderness and extending the frontier. He turned the first furrow upon many an acre and improved his half section, becoming a successful farmer and stock-raiser, for as the years went by his labors brought to him a very gratifying financial return. He died upon the home farm March 28, 1876, at the age of sixty-eight years, and his wife passed away April 13, 1883, at the age of seventy-six years. In their family were eight children. Henry Cook was but two years of age when brought by his parents to Bureau county, where he spent his entire life, being reared amid the wild scenes and environments of the frontier. His youth was passed upon his father's farm and he remained at home until his marriage, which was celebrated November 12. 1855. Miss Orilla S. Richards, of Paynesville, Ohio, becoming his wife. He then purchased eighty acres of his father's farm and began life for himself in earnest, locating near the present home of Mr. Williams, whose farm was a part of the Cook place. The grandfather of Mrs. Williams was one of the founders of the Congregational church here and took an active and helpful interest in the early moral development of the county. Advocating abolition ))rinciples, his home was one of the stations on the underground railroad at a time when that method was employed to assist fugitive slaves on their way to liberty in the north. He owned two hundred and twenty acres of land and his son, the father of Mrs. Williams, lived where our subject now resides and owned one hundred and five acres. Unto him and bis wife were born three children: Herbert, Bertha .\. and Jessie H. Tlie

Unto Ml', and .Mrs. Williams have iieen Ixjrn two children. Eula and Chester. The family are menii)ers of the Congregational church and Mr. Williams belongs to the Modern Woodmen camp of Princeton, while in politics he is a republican. He is a self-made man, owing his prosperity entirely to his own labors. He has worked persistently as the years have gone by, making the liest use of his opportunities and putting forth an unfaltering energv and determination that have made him a prosperous resident of Princeton township. ,

Madison J. Hensel, who for five years has owned and occupied his present farm in Walnut township, was born near New Philadelphia, Ohio, on the 12th of February, 1848, and is a son of James and Mary (Frease) Hensel, who are mentioned on another page of this work in connection with the sketch of their son, George Hensel. The subject of this review was brought to Bureau county, in 1853 by his parents, who settled in Dover town.ship. Ho was then a little lad of five years. The journey was made by wagon after the primitive manner of the times and in the district schools of Dover township Mr. Hensel acquired his education and was reared to the occupation of farming, early becoming familiar with all the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. He made his home in Dover township until 1882, when he removed to a farm in Walnut township which he had previously purchased, making that place his home until locating on his present farm in 1902. He has always followed farming and is now the owner of two hundred and eighty acres of excellent land valued at from one hundred and twenty-five to one hundred and fifty dollars per acre. There are excellent buildings upon the place and all modern equipments and the fields return good harvests. He likewise raises some stock and everything about the farm is kept in excellent condition, showing careful supervision and progressive management.

On the 22d of February. 1882, ]\Ir. Hensel was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Taylor, who was born April 6, 1857, in Dover township, this county, and is a daughter of Mathew and Katherine (Smith) Taylor, both of whom were natives of Ohio, whence they came to Bureau county about 1855, settling in Dover township with its early residents. The father followed the occupation of farming and both he and his wife are still living on the old homestead in Dover township. The marriage of ^Ir. and Mrs. Hensel lias been bles.sod with two children: Rolla 'I', and

Mr. Hensel is an Odd Fellow, belonging to Tonluca lodge at Princeton, and in his political afHliation he is a democrat. He has never been an office seeker, however, preferring to devote his time and energies to his business affairs. He has served, however, as school director for several years and he stands for progress along all those lines which lead to general development and improvement. He has a wide acquaintance in the county where almost his entire life has been passed and has become a representative citizen, while his many good qualities have gained for him the friendship and regard of those with whom lie has been associated.

James A. Golby

.lames A. Golby, who is engaged in general farming and stock-raising on two hundred and forty acres of land in Neponset township, is a native of Pennsylvania, the date of his birth being September 4, 1863. His parents were William and Bridget (McCoy) Aiken, both natives of Ireland. They removed from Pennsylvania to Illinois, where their last days were passed. In their family were seven children, five sons and two daughters, of whom six are now living, namely : Mary, Sarah, Margaret, Hattie, Bridget, and James A.

James A. Golby whose name introduces this review w-as only three years of age when he lost his parents and was then adopted by Michael Golby and his wife, who had no children of their own and who reared him as their son. Mr. Golby was horn in Kilkenny. Ireland, and died in 1899, at the age of eighty-four years, while his wife passed away August 13, 1900, at the age of seventyfour. It w^as in the year 1846 that Mr. Golby came to America, settling first at Albany, New York, W'here he was engaged in farming for ahout eight years. In 1854 he came to Illinois, locating in Henry county, where he carried on general agricultural pursuits imtil 1802. He then removed to Neponset township. Bureau county, locating on eighty acres of land, which at that time was wild prairie. He at once began its development and made all of the improvements upon the ]dace. Subsequently he bought an additional tract of sixty acres of land and he remained upon the home farm until 1882, when he purchased a residence in Kewanee and lived retired up to the time of his death, enjoying a rest which he had truly earned and richly deserved. He held membership in the Roman Catholic church, at Kewanee. and in politics he was a democrat, but never cared for public office.

life on bis own account, ami mi the loth of August, 1900, he began farming on eighty acres of land of his own. Later he purchased one hundred and sixty acres, so that he is today the owner of a valuable farming property of two hundred and forty acres in Xeponset township, where he carries on general agricultural pursuits and stock-raising. 'I'lic jilace is well improved and equipped with modei'ii conveniences and in its neat and thrifty appearance indicates his careful supervision and practical methods.

On the 4th of Feiiruary, 1891. Mr. Golby was united in marriage to Miss Catherine C. Curley wlio was born in Altoona, Illinois, February 3, 1809, a daughter of I'imothy and Catherine (Joyce) Curley, wlio were natives of Galway, Ireland. They were married on the Emerald isle and Mr. Curley came to this country in a sailing vessel in 1848, being six W'ceks upon the water. However, he landed safely at New York city and the following year he sent for his wife, who joined him in the new world. They came to Illinois in 18G.5, locating at Altoona, where thev lived for two years and then removed to Neponset. j\[r. Curley spent his remaining days as a railroad man and farmer and was a hard working, industrious man who labored earnestly and persistently in order to provide a good home for his family and educate his children. He voted with the democracy and held membership in the Roman Catholic church at Kewanee, dying in that faith on the 3d of April, 1901, when seventy-five years of age, while his wife passed away, (October 18, 1895, at the age of sixty-eight years. In their family were nine children, but Mrs. Golby is the only one now living. She was reared in Illinois and engaged in teaching school prior to her marriage. Unto this union have been born seven children, of whom four are now living: William J., born ^larcli 5, 1893; John T., Jime 20. 1893 ; Agnes M. A., Jirly 5, 1900; and Leo T.. May 18, 1901. One daughter, Catherine M. A., born May 30, 1895, died in March, 1903. Mr. Golby is largely a self-made man and as the years have passed his life lias hecome an example of the force and power of industrv and enterprise in an active business career. All who know him esteem him for his genuine worth and what he has acccuiqilisbed and he is nowone of the representative farmers of Neponset township.

Gustav F. Schendel

GUSTAV F. SCHENDEL. (xustav F. Schendel, now living a retired life in Princeton, has lieen a resident of this city since 1870 and was an active factor in business life until a few years ago, wdien he retired to spend his remaining days in the enjoyment of the fruits of his former toil. He is a native of Prussia, Germany, where he was born May 14, 1846. His parents always resided in that country, where l)oth passed away. The father was engaged in the grocery business there in early life and afterward devoted his time to the conduct of woolen mills, being thus associated with manufacturing interests until he retired from active business cares. Both he and his wife died in that country.

Gustav F. Scheudel was educated in the common schools of his native country and at the age of sixteen years began to learn the trade of a coppersmith, at which he worked for three years in Germany, thoroughly mastering the business and becoming an excellent workman. He was nineteen years of age when in connection with his brother, Julius J. Scheudel, he bade adieu to friends and native land and sailed for America in the year 18G5. They landed at New York city, where Mr. Schendel of this review worked at his trade for a few years. He afterward went to Cleveland, Ohio, where he remained for one year and on the expiration of that period he went to East Saginaw, Michigan, where he learned the barber's trade, which he followed for a short time. He afterward went to Chicago, where he was employed for a brief period and next located in Ottawa, Illinois, where he continued work as a barber.

It was during his residence in Ottawa that Mr. Schendel was married to Miss Catherine Pepler, a daughter of Mrs. Mary Pepler, a widow, now residing in Toledo, Ohio. Three children graced this marriage, but all died in infancy. The first born was unnamed and the others were Julius and Carl. Mr. and Mrs. Schendel adopted one child, Philip Schendel, who is now married and has always made his home in Princeton.

Following his marriage Gustav F. Schendel came to Princeton in 1870, being the first of the family to locate here. His brother Julius J. came soon afterward and is now residing in this city, conducting a barber shop on Main street. When Gustav F. Schendel located in Princeton he, too, began work at the barber's trade, his shop being in the American House, and for fifteen years he continued successfully in the business. He then sold out the business to his brother and became proprietor of a restaurant and cafe on South street near the courthouse, conducting a first-class establishment of that character, so that a large patronage was accorded him and he was very successful. He continued in the same line of trade until he retired a short time ago. The years of his activity, his well directed labors and his careful management brought him a substantial competence that now enables him to live retired.

In early life Mr. Schendel gave his political allegiance to the democracy, but is now a stanch republican. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity of Princeton, with which he has been afliliated for thirty-four years, and is an exemplary representative of the craft. He owns a beautiful home at 52G West South street, where he and his wife reside, and he has made all of the improvements here. In connection with this property he also has two and a half acres, all within the town limits, and his real estate is the visible evidence of intense and w-ell directed activity on his part. For many years he was a well known and representative business man here and the most envious can nut grudge him his success, so worthily has he won it.

Harvey E. Hensel

Harvey E. Hensel, who since 1900 has resided on his present farm in Dover township, is one of the native sons of this tow-nship, his birth having occurred on section 23, February 16, 1855. His father, James Hensel, was born in Pennsylvania, June 24, 1807, and came to Bureau county in 1853, reaching his destination on the 2d of October. He traveled by rail to La Salle county and then walked across the country to this county. He was married twice, his first wife being Lydia Fockler, who was born in 1805. His second wife, who bore the maiden name of Mary Frease, was born in Pennsylvania, July 11, 1823. By the first marriage there were six children : Philip, Simon, Henry, Enoch, Sarah and Elias. The seven children born of the second marriage are : John, Madison, George, Cyrus, Harvey E., Eliza and Elsie.

Mr. Hensel of this review was reared in Bureau county and acquired his education in the district schools and in Princeton. He was reared to the occupation of farming and has always carried on general agricultural pursuits. As a companion and helpmate for life's journey he chose Miss Jane E. Hoyt, to whom he was married in this county, February 20, 1879. She was born in Dover township, October 1, 1860, and, like her husband, was educated in the district schools and in Princeton. Her father, Jonathan Hoyt, was born in Greenfield, New York, January 3, 183-1, and was married to Miss Mary Porter, who w^as born in l\[assachusetts in 1S3G and is a descendant of Jonathan Edwards. Mr. and Mrs. Hensel have become the parents of ten children: W. LeRoy, born January 29, 1880; Ralph H., born April 4, 1881; Ethel Blanche, who was born Jlay 12, 1883, and is now deceased; Hat tie Grace, born September 7, 1884; Raymond F.. March 29, 1886; Mary Ruth, March 22, 1888; Warren Jay, June 25, 1890; Nellie, who was born May 12, 1892, and has also passed away; Ivan Dewitt, born April 1, 1894; and Hallie Valpa. born October 14, 1902. Of this family W. LeRoy was married April 18, 1906, to Miss Perthenia Booth, a trained nurse by profession. She was born in Berlin township, Bureau county, October 30, 1879, her parents being Aaron and Tacy T. (Holt) Booth, natives of Ohio, the former born in 1847 and the latter August 21, 1855. Her father came to Illinois in 1850 and was a resident of Putnam county for some years.

Harvey E. Hensel is now devoting his time and energies to his farm work, having eighty acres of land moved to this farm in 1902 and on which he is raising corn, oats and hay. He also raises draft horses and Poland China hogs and his success may be attributed to his close application and unremitting attention to his business. He has always lived in this county and many of his stanchest friends are those who have known him from his boyhood, a fact which indicates that his life has been honorable and upright.

Martin B. Terpening

Martin B. Terpening was born in Macon township, this county, on the 4th of April, 1860. His parents, Marvin and Mary A. (Carpenter) Terpening, were natives of Yirgil, Cortland county. New York, and were married in the Empire state in 1853. In 1856 they became residents of Aurora, Illinois, where they resided for four years and in 1860 removed to Bureau county, settling on section 31, Macon township, where the father secured one hundred acres of land. He also purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land in Neponset township. In 1859 he made the overland trip to Pike's Peak, but not meeting with the success he anticipated in the gold fields he returned to Illinois and devoted his energies to general agricultural pursuits in Macon township up to the time of his death, which occurred in November, 1861, when he was but twenty-seven years of age. His widow, who was born June 15, 1833, long survived him and passed away September 2, 1899. They were the parents of two children, the daughter being Mary A., the widow of Daniel Harrison, a resident of Neponset. The father gave his political allegiance to the republican party upon its organization and voted for Abraham Lincoln in 1860.

Martin B. Terpening, educated in the public schools, devoted his attention to farming when not occupied with the duties of the schoolroom and remained upon the old homestead until twentythree years of age, when he started out upon an independent business career as an agriculturist. He had one hundred and thirty acres of land which he began to operate. He has erected a fine residence upon his farm and everything about his place is indicative of the careful supervision of an owner who is at once practical and progressive in his work. At the present time, however, he has his land leased to other parties.

On the 6th of June, 1883, Mr. Terpening was united in marriage to Miss Mary Ann Connolly, who was born in Savannah, Georgia, October 11, 1860, a daughter of Peter and Ellen E. (Etchingham) Connolly. Her father was born near Belfast, Ireland, and came to the United States in 1851, landing after a voyage of ten weeks spent on a sailing vessel. His wife was born in Wexford, Ireland, and they were married in Savannah,

Georgia, May 1, 1854. Mr. Connolly became a fireman on the Savannah & Macon Railroad, and was thus engaged up to the time of the Civil war, when he enlisted in artillery service, being in Longstreet's brigade. He was in both the first and second battles of Bull Run, and in the engagements at Fredericksburg, Gettysburg, Spartansburg, Petersburg, Cold Harbor and Appomattox. He was at the last named place under Lee when the Confederate commander surrendered and there he took the oath of allegiance, after which he returned to Savannah, where he resided until 1868. In that year he came to Illinois, locating at Neponset, where he remained until his death, which occurred April 17, 1901, when he was sixty-three years of age. He held membership with the Masonic fraternity and was a democrat in his political views. His wife died July 22, 1888, at the age of fifty-six years. In their family were two children: Mrs. Terpening, and Kathleen, the wife of C. W. Kelly, of Galesburg, Illinois. Their daughter, Mrs. Terpening, was seventeen years of age, when, in 1879, she was graduated from the high school at Neponset and she has since engaged in teaching in the J. S. Carper school in Macon township. Such excellent work is done in this school that her pupils are admitted to the tenth grade in the Neponset school without examination.

Prominent and active in community affairs, Mr. Terpening was in 1902 elected assessor of Neponset township, in which capacity he is now serving. In politics he is an earnest republican and sociallv he is connected with Neponset lodge. No. 803, A. F. & A. M. His entire life has been passed in this county, so that his history is largely an open book to his many friends. The record is one worthy of reading and contains many elements that might be profitably followed by those who desire to win both success and an honored name.

Mrs. Mary E. Yeater

MRS. MARY E. YEATER. Mrs. Mary E. Yeater, residing in Bureau township, where she owns valuable farming interests, was born in New Jersey in May, 1854, a daughter of Zeby and Elizabeth (Myers) Hackett, who were also natives of New Jersey. Leaving the east they came to Bureau county, Illinois, settling at Sheffield in the year 1855, and there Mr. Hackett worked at the carpenter's trade, in which he was engaged during the greater part of his life, becoming closely associated with the building operations in Sheffield and that portion of the county. He was one of the early settlers of Bureau county and contributed much to its early growth, development and improvement. He died about twentyseven years ago, while his wife had passed away soon after their arrival in Bureau county. Both were worthy people who enjoyed in large measure the friendship and regard of those with whom they came in coiiliRt. In their I'aniiiv were tsix children, namely: Elizalieth, William, John, Sarah, Catherine Ann ami ^[ary E. After losing his first wife the father was married again and had five children by the second union, as follows: Stella, Emma, Rachel, ElTie and Hattie.

iMrs. ilary E. Yeater was only about six months old when Ijroughl to Bureau county and her girlhood days were spent here. In 1877 she gave her hand in marriage to Ceorge \V. Fay, who died in August, 1886. He was a farmer of Bureau county, having been born within its borders in July, 1845. His parents were Samuel L. and ^lary (Mercer) Fay, the former from Conway, Massachusetts, and the latter from the state of Ohio. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. George \V. Fay was celebrated in Dover townsliip. Bureau county, in February, ISTT, and they began their domestic life in Illinois, where she has always lived with the exception of a period of five years which she spent in Mitttintown. Juniata county, Pennsylvania. By her first marriage she had two children : Nathan, who died at the age of three and a half years ; and William Leonard Fay, who is still with his mother. In January, 1889, two years after the death of her first husliand, Mrs. Fav became the wife of Henry Yeater and to them were born two children : Arthur Marion and Mabel Anna.

Mrs. Yeater and her family are niendiers of the Wesleyan ilethodist church and contribute generously to its support. She now owns a valuable farm of thirty-one acres of fine land in her own name and her son is the owner of one hundred and four acres. Nearly all this is under cultivation and is highly improved, the place being valued at from one hundred and fifty to two hundred dollars per acre. Mrs. Yeater is now one of the pioneer settlers of the county, having arrived here more than a half century ago. She is therefore largely familiar with its history and has been an interested witness of the changes which have occurred here. She has nuiny friends in Bureau county and occupies an envial>le position in social circles in which she moves.

WILLIAJI WILSON ]\IILLER. William Wilson Jliller, who carries on general farming on section 7, Wyanet township, is a native son of Bureau county, having first opened his eyes to the light of day in IS.TS upon a farm six miles east of Princeton. lie is a son of D. A. Miller, a native of Clark county. Ohio, who came to this county in 1S.")0. and settled east of Princeton, where he purchased a farm. His wife, the mother of our subject, ilied when her son W^illiam was but five weeks old. She bore the maiden name of Ovanda Williams, and at her demise her remains were interred in the Searles cemetery. After losing his first wife !\fr. ^filler married her sister, Amanda Williams, and to tleni were born six children, four daughters and two sons. The father of our subject continued to make his home in Illinois until his death, which occurred at Manlius, July 7, l'J04. He owned a farm there, whereon he had lived for forty years, and was one of the respected and valued agriculturists of the community.

William Wilson ililler was educated in the common schools, but his opportunities in that direction were somewhat limited. Owing to his mother's death he was reared by his uncle, Robert W. j\Iiller, who resided upon the place now occupied by the nephew, who has lived here continuously throughout his boyhood days, having purchased the place from his uncle. He now owns one hundred and sixty acres of fine land in Wyanet township, whereon he makes his home, and in addition has five hundred and sixty acres in Kansas, near Wiiifield, his eldest sou su])erintending that place.

Having arrived at years of mattirity, Mr. Miller was married to Miss Izora Martin, who was born in Greenville township. Bureau county, and is a daughter of Charles ilartin, who is now living retired in Walnut, Illinois. He is an old settler of Bureau county and has reached the age of seventy-seven years. His birth occurred in Lee township, Oneida county. New York, September 4, 1827, and his parents, William and Triphena (Cogswell) JIartin, were both natives of Massachusetts. In their family were nine children but five of the number died in infancy. Although a cripple, William ]\Iartin was accepted for service in the war of 1812 and was stationed for duty at Sacketfs Harbor. He had two brothers, James and Ebenezer Martin, who were oflScers in the United States army during the second struggle with England, one being a first lieutenant and the other a captain. Thcv also participated in the battle at Sacketfs Harbor. Their father had been a member of the Continental army during the Revolutionary war and many times saw General Washington. William Martin survived to the vear 1834 and died in the state of New York. In 1848 his son, Charles Martin, father of Mrs. Miller, came to Bureau county, Illinois, and located in Manlius township, which was then a part of Greenville township. He followed farming until 1S.")2, when he removed to the village of New Bedford, where he was successfully engaged in merchandising for nine 3'ears, and during the succeeding four years he followed the same pursuit in Wyanet. Later, however, he purchased four hundred and forty acres of rich and productive) land in Greenville township, whereon he made his home for many years, successfully carrying on agricultural pursuits. At the present writing, however, he is living retired in Walnut, Illinois. He was married May 8, 1850, to Miss Victoria Lovier, a native of New York, and a datighter of Joseph Tjovier, who came to this county from France. Five children blessed this union: Joseph L., a

])racticing physician ; James F. ; Adelbert L. ; Izora, now Mrs. Miller; and Cla^yton J. The mother passed away November 28, 1867, and ilr. Martin was again married, his second union being with Electa Thomas, a daughter of Henry Thomas, the first settler of Bureau county, Illinois, where he arrived in 1828. He built the first cabin and plowed the first furrow in the county. By the second marriage five children were born. Mr. Martin is a republican in his political views and has held various offices of trust in the county, such as school director, school trustee, road commissioner and township collector, and in all these positions he has proven a faithful and efficient officer.

The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Miller has beeblessed with seven children : Howard A., who is living on his father's farm in Kansas ; Neva, 0., Lessie I)., Alta Maud, Willie L., Alice I. and Clayton, all at home.

Mr. Miller owns one hundred and sixty acres of good land in AVyanet township. In 190.1 he suffered losses, his barn being struck by lightning, but he immediately rebuilt and now has fine buildings upon his place and he works his own land, carrying on general farming and stock-raising, making a specialty of thoroughbred Poland China hogs and Shropshire sheep. He now has one hundred and eighty head of sheep and he also raises cattle and hogs upon his farms in Kansas. His business interests are well managed and his success indicates his alert and enterprising spirit.

In his political views Mr. Miller is a republican, but has never cared for nor held office, save that of school director. Fraternally he is connected with the Modern Woodmen of America, the Mystic Workers and the Yeomen of America. His family are all members of the Congregational church and are held in high esteem in the community where they reside. Mr. Miller is recognized as a reliable and representative agriculturist who has been very successful in his life. He never had a cent given to him and has made all that he now possesses through his own labors and his record ])roves what may be accomplished through determination and energy, guided by sound judgment and supplemented by honorable dealing.

Joseph Speinger

Joseph Springer, who within the past twenty years has come into possession of the property which he now owns, comprising three hundred and five acres of valuable and productive land in Bureau county, was born in the town of (jhio. Bureau county, on the 11th of October, 18G2. His Parents were Joseph and Mattie (Zimmerman) Springer. The father was a native of Gernumy and afterward lived in France, while the mother was from Alsace-Lorraine. When twenty-five years of age Joseph Springer, Sr., came from the old worlii to tiie Ihiited Sfates and located at Peoria, Illinois, where he remained for about five years. It was there that he met and married Miss Zimmerman, who had come to the new vorld with her parents about two years prior to the arrival of Mr. Springer. The marriage was celebrated in Peoria in the month of February, 1859, and was blessed with three children, Andrew, Joseph and John, all of whom are living on farms, Andrew and Joseph being residents of Bureau county, while John makes his home in Nebraska.

Joseph Springer, whose name introduces this record, began his education in the district school.? of Bureau county and thereby was well trained for life's practical and responsible duties. When not busy with his text-books he assisted in the operation of the home farm and was early trained to habits of industry and economy, which in later years have borne rich fruit in a successful business record. He has always led an industrious life, diligence and perseverance being numbered among his salient characteristics, and he has now accumulated a fine property of three hundred and five acres of very desirable land. In the '80s he worked by the month as a farm hand and, saving from his earnings the sum of four hundred dollars, he began with this capital in 1886 to farm for himself, first renting two hundred and forty acres of land. His present valuable possessions show the thrift and enterprise which have characterized him and indicate his business capacity. He is still actively engaged in farming but expects soon to remove to the vicinity of Princeton in order to give his children the benefit of better educational privileges there, while he expects to engage in the breeding of Percheron horses and shorthorn cattle. He now has a good herd of cattle of that breed and also owns a number of valuable horses.

Mr. Springer has been married twice. ( )n the 5tli of February, 1895, he wedded ^liss Mary Burkey, a native of Indiantown township. Bureau county. Her parents were natives of Germany but came to Illinois at an early period in the development of Bureau county, where her father has followed farming during the greater j)art of his life. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Springer were born two sons, Gilbert and Edwin. The wife and mother died on the 5th of May, 1898, her death being the occasion of deep regret bv many friends as well as her immediate family, for she posses.sed many good traits of heart and mind. In 1901 Mr. Springer was again married, his second union being with Lydia Sears, of Indiantown township, with whom he had been acquainted from her childhood days. There has been one daughter by this marriage, Clara ifay, who was born June 12, 1902.

Mr. Springer belongs to the Mennonite church at Tiskilwa and is interested in matters relating to public progress and improvement, withholding his support from no measure which he deems will be of general benefit. His entire life has been passed in Bureau county and he has made an enviable and creditable record as a business man, progressing along lines of activity and honesty and in harmonv with the highest ethics of business life.

Alfeed E. Geeenwood

Alfred E. Greenwood, deceased, was one of the most prominent attorneys of Bureau county and of this part of the state and in addition to his large law practice he was interested in the drug business, in banking and in mining, and the extent and importance of his practice contributed in substantial measure to the material growth and prosperity of various sections of the county as well as to his individual success. He was a man who bore an unassailable reputation in business circles and who owed his success to the exercise of his native and acquired talents. The great philosopher, Francis Bacon, has said, "Every man owes a debt to his profession," and the debt Mr. Greenwood fully discharged, for the business which yielded him an income and gave him place with the substantial residents of the county found in him also an ornament to the profession, his entire career reflecting credit and honor upon his business associations.

Mr. Greenwood was a native of Burlington, Iowa, born on the (5th of July, 1847. His parents were Stott J. and Eliza Greenwood, the former a native of England and the latter of the Hawkeye state. In early life Stott J. Greenwood came from his native country to America and settled in Burlington, Iowa, where he was married and began the study of law. Subsequently he entered upon the active practice of his profession in Burlington, where he remained for several years, after which he removed with his family to La Salle, Illinois, where he established a drug store, conducting business there with a fair measure of prosperity for several years. Eventually he retired from connection with commercial interests, but he made his home in La Salle for many years, later removing to Pecatonica, where his death occurred, while his wife died in La Salle.

Alfred E. Greenwood was but a young lad when his parents removed to La Salle after having spent his earlier years in St. Louis. He attended the public schools of La Salle and at the age of eighteen years started in business there on his own account, opening a drug store. He had become somewhat familiar with the trade in his father's store, but the two establishments were entirely separate. Alfred E. Greenwood opened a drug business and maintained an interest therein throughout the remainder of his days.

Like his father, Mr. Greenwood desired to become a member of the bar and when a young man he entered upon the studv of law in the office of Judge Locey, of I>a Salle, who directed his reading for a few years, subsequent to which time he was admitted to the bar at Chicago in

18b2. He returned to La Salle, where he began practice. Like all young lawyers he had to make a start and demonstrate his ability. Advancement in the law is proverbially slow but as time passed Mr. Greenwood established liis right to rank with the able practitioners and in the course of years was accorded a liberal patronage. In the early days of his connection with the profession, however, he was also identified with other business concerns. In 1882 a vein of coal was discovered at Spring Valley in Hall township. Bureau county, and Mr. Greenwood early went to the new city, the town site being laid out under his supervision. He became much interested in mining operations in that locality and did much toward the development of its rich mineral resources, whereby the growth and prosperity of the community were largely augmented. In 1889 he removed with his family to Spring Valley in order to better superintend his legal business there, having already invested quite largely in the coal district. He also continued in the practice of law and his clientele became a very extensive and important one. He was particularly well informed concerning corporation law and was attorney for the Spring Valley Coal Company, the Chicago, Eock Island & Pacific Eailroad Company, and the Illinois Third Vein Coal Company. After three years Mr. Greenwood took his family to Princeton and established his home there in order that his children might enjoy better educational privileges but he continued in the active practice of law until his demise. He also served as city attorney of Spring Valley for two terms. His professional services there were in continual demand and his clientage became large and of a distinctively representative character.

On the 13th of November, 1878, occurred the marriage of Alfred E. Greenwood and iliss Edith C. Ward, whom he wedded in La Salle. She was a daughter of Thomas and Daphne A. Brown (Cole) Ward, the former a native of West Virginia and the latter of Vermont. The year 1853 witnessed the arrival of Mr. Ward in La Salle county, where he became one of the largest stockraisers in this part of the state. He purchased a farm north of the town of La Salle and there engaged in general agricultural pursuits and stockraising for many years. During that time he also purchased large farms in North Dakota, where he also conducted a stock-raising enterprise. He was likewise interested in the Union stockyards in Chicago and during his later years he would largely spend his summers in North Dakota and the winter months at the stockyards in Chicago. In 1872 he removed his family to the town of La Salle, where he made his home until his death, allhough he passed away in Chicago. His wife died in La Salle. Mr. Ward became very wellto-do in the stock business, the extent of his operations making him a successful dealer.

Past And Peesent Of Bueeau Couxty

children : Ward A., who married Miss Exia Peterson, of Princeton, and now resides in North Dakota, where he is engaged in farming and stock-raising; Cecelia, who is living with her mother in Princeton ; Malcolm and Lillian, both deceased; and Mabel, living in Princeton with their mother.

Following his removal to Princeton Mr. Greenwood developed a very extensive practice here and in the state supreme and United States appellate courts. At the same time he maintained a law office in Spring Valley and at the bar displayed keen insight into the political problems introduced, together with a strong, analytical mind and logical reasoning. He was so well acquainted with the fundamental principles of law that he was seldom, if ever, at error in quoting the law applicable to his cause and his capability made him widely known throughout this part of the state. In 1902, in company with I. H. Norris, he incorporated the Spring Valley City Bank, of which he became a large stockholder, and he remained in the business up to the time of his death.

It was owing to the diligence and enterprise with which he applied himself to his business interests that Mr. Greenwood's health became impaired, remaining so for two years prior to his death. He spent one summer in Eureka Springs, .\rkansas. Four months were passed there, in which he seemed greatly benetited. He afterward visited an Indiana health resort and subsequently went to North Dakota, where he spent several weeks, but no benefit which he received remained permanent and. returning to his home in Princeton, he here passed away on the 35th of November. 1904.

In his political views Mr. Greenwood had been a stalwart republican and was very much interested in the growth and success of his party, which benefited by his efforts in its behalf. In his business affairs he had prospered and he became the owner of much valuable property in Spring Valley and Princeton, opening the Greenwood addition to Spring Valley. Owing to his prosperity he was enabled to leave his family in comfortable circumstances and Mrs. Greenwood now owns a large and beautiful residence at No. 12fi East Peru street in Princeton, where she and her daughters reside. She is prominent in social circles there and, like her husband, has many warm friends all over the county.

In his funeral address the Rev. Mr. Slaughter said, "We are here today because the life lived was dedicated to all that was true and right and honorable in every relation with fellowmen. T know nothing (except by report) of his spirit, temperament, and character. The very high estimate that has come to me concerning Mr. Greenwood is this: He was a good citizen, a biffhly esteemed and honored member of the bar, a kind and obliging neighbor, a good and thoughtful friend, a tender, loving- husband. He was fatherly, brotherly, friendly. This means much. As a good citizen, he was a man of splendid habits; diligent in his professional obligations; rugged in honesty; public spirited; respected and esteemed by all the members of the bar; a close student; with careful research and thoughtful deliberation he generally reached correct conclusions. This made him a safe and successful lawyer. As you knew him better he grew more and more in your respect. He was persistent, a hard worker. With his ability as lawyer he had what every lawyer does not have, good business judgment, and this gave him the business confidence of the citizens of this county. And this confidence led to his endorsement by the county as a man worthy of nomination as a member of congress. If this county hail had the controlling vote, he would have been nominated. As a neighbor, he was greatly beloved; loved by the young people; always pleasant to everybody; unselfish. A neighbor said to me, 'I never knew any one to dislike him." As husband and father, his life was dedicated to all that was beautiful and lovely in the domestic circle. Mr. Greenwood by his strength of mind and heart rose to excellence in his chosen profession, and became a man of some extended influence. We are not gathered here to do honor to his memory because he was rich, or had gained any eminence among men, but because he lived a good life among us. He was a part of the life of the bar; of every citizen; of every neighbor: of this communitv."

Elmer Elsworth Battey

Elmer Elsworth Battey, who for almost twenty years has been engaged in dealing in lumber and agricultural implements in Slieffield, where in business circles he sustains an unassailable reputation, while his diligence and enterprise have brought to him a large and constantly growing trade, was born in Mineral township, June 11, 1861, and is the youngest child of Major Silas and Mercy (Bennett) Battey, who are represented elsewhere in this volume. He acquired his education in the Sheffield schools, l)eing graduated I'l'oni the high school with the ch'.ss of ISSl. He afterward engaged in teaching school and later became actively interested in farming, which he followed until 1884, when he connected himself with a publishing house in Chicago, remaining there until 1887.

In that year Mr. Battey returned to Sheffield and joined his father in the conduct of an agricultural implement establishment, under the firm style of S. Battey & Son, and in ISSS thev nddod a lumber yard. In 1890, j\Iajor Battey's health failing, the son purchased the father's interest in the business, which he continued alone until 1892, when he formed a partnership with H. E. Abbiilt. buying out the business of another implement and lumber firm and organizing the firm of Bat- tey & Abbott. This relatiou was uiaintained until 1898, when Jlr. Battcy iiurchased Mr. Abbott's interest in the business and has since conducted the store under his own name. He carries a large and well selected stock and enjoys a good trade, while in commercial circles in Sheffield he is accounted a worthy and jirominent representative. On the 26th of Xovemlier. ISSM;. Mr. Battey was united in marriage to Miss Bertha Eeed, a daughter of Fitzhugh and Adelphia (Wicks) Keed, of Sheffield, and in social circles they occupy an enviable position, having many warm friends. In addition to his home Mr. Battey owns considerable real estate in the town of Sheffield and still lias an interest in his father".s estate. In community affairs he has maintained an active and helpful interest and his labors for the public good have been of direct benefit. He has served as village clerk, filled the office of alderman for six years, and for two terms was president of the board, exercising his official prerogatives in support of many advantageous measures for the city. He is a member of Sheffield lodge, No. 808, I. 0. 0. F., of which he is past noble grand, and he belongs to the Unitarian church, so that his interests center along those lines which touch the general welfare, and his co-operation and support are valuable factor.'; in promoting the public good.

Watts A. Johnson

Watts A. Johnson, engaged in the practice of law in Princeton, deserves especial credit for his success from the fact that without financial assistance or the aid of influential friends he has worked his way upward, winning the somewhat hackneved but altogether expressive title of a selfmade man. The tasks which he has set for himself have been resolutely and capably performed and he early displayed "the elemental strength of his character in his determination to secure an education and by his persistent efforts in this direction. His birth occurred at Dillsboro in Dearborn county, Indiana, December l(j, 1857, his parents being James J. and Minerva (Young) Johnson. The father was also a native of Indiana and in the vear 1860 he removed with his family from that state to Dover townshij). Bureau county, Illinois, settling on a farm.

Watts A. Jolmsiin. then but three years of age, passed his boyhood days in the usual manner of farm lads and acquired his early education in the public schools of Bureau county, with later a partial course in the old University of Chicago and a law course in Union College of Law in the same citv. He taught school for a time in Bureau county and in early life he put forth strenuous effort in order to gain an education. From the time he left the farm he nu-t the expenses of his education through his own efforts and scorned no honest work that would replenish his exchequer and enable him to prosecute his studies. He carried papers and lighted street lamps in Chicago and in the face of difficulties which would have utterly deterred and disheartened many a man of even considerable resolute spirit he managed to acquire a partial university course and make his way through law college. He was admitted to the bar in 1883 and located for practice in Princeton, where he has since conducted liis office. His mind is analytical, logical and deductive and his reasoning is strong and forceful. He came to the bar well equipped not only by a good collegiate course but also with a spirit of determination that fears not difficulties and obstacles but puts forth continued effort until the goal of success is reached. In the trial of cases he makes thorough and careful j]i'e]iaration and in liis presentation of his cause displays a cogency and clearness of statement that never fails to impress his auditors with the correctness of his position and his appreciation of the justice of the plea that he makes.

It is men of such strength of character that are needed and sought for in political circles and it is this that has led to Mr. Johnson's selection for various political honors. He is a republican, stalwart in his advocacy of the principles of the party and for two terms he served as city attorney by popular election. In 1893 he was elected prosecuting attorney for the county and filled that position for two terms, when he refused a third nomination. He has also been mayor of the city for one term and has given a ]nil)lic-spirited and beneficial administration, characterized by a close study of the needs and possibilities of the city and the chances for substantial progress.

In 1884 Mr. Johnson was united in marriage to Miss Jennie C. Buckingham, of Somonauk, De Kalb county, Illinois, a daughter of Almus B. and Berlina (Cheever) Buckingham. Mr. Johnson is a member of the Baptist church and all those matters which pertain to the progress and advancement of the race and of the individual, of the city and of the nation, are of interest to him. The history of Princeton gives many tangililo proofs of his devotion to her welfare, wliile her citizens recognize in him those qualities of manhdod which awaken respect and confidence in every land and clime.

Abraham L. Piper

ABRAHAM L. PIPER. Abraham L. Piper, a prominent repn'scntative of the agricultural interests of Bureau county, is residing in Ohio township. He was born in this county, January 6, 1866, and is a son of H. H. and Amanda (McWilliams) Piper, mention of whom is made on another page of this volume. ,\braham was the fourth in a family nf nine children and was reared in the usual manner of farm lads, early becoming familiar with the duties anil lalinrs that fall In the lot of the agricidturist.

for he assisted in the work of plowing, planting and harvesting as the years went by. He has always carried on farming as a life work and now owns one hundred and sixty acres of very arable and productive land in Ohio township, which is divided into fields of convenient size by well kefit fences and thereon are annually gathered good crops of corn, oats and hay. He likewise raises considerable live stock. He has lived upon this place for ten years and is one of the leading agriculturists of tiiis part of the state. He is also one of the heirs to the vast estate of liis father, Hiram H. Piper, and as such is numbered among the wealthier representatives of agricultural interests in Bureau county.

Abraham L. Piper was married July 3, ISS-t, but lost his first wife on the 27th of April, 1888. He was again married October 3, 1889, to Miss Hattie E. Oglesby, who was born in Warren county, Ohio, August 26, 1870. They have an attractive home, equipped with all modern accessories and conveniences and giving every indication of refined and cultured taste. The farm is supplied with all modern conveniences and Mr. Piper displays in his business affairs keen discernment and sound judgment, making him a prosperous and leading agricidturist. He votes with the republican party and is thoroughly in sympathy with its principles and policy, but has never been an office seeker. As a private citizen, however, he has done much for the public welfare, giving his co-operation to many measures for the public good. He is ambitious for general as well as individual progress and he always keeps in touch with the trend of the times.

James Masters Curtis

JAMES MASTERS CURTIS. James Masters Curtis was for an extended period a leading farmer of Concord township and died at his home, a mile northeast of Sheffield, on the 19th of August, 1901, when in the eightieth year of his age. He was born at Schagticoke, Rensselaer county. New York, August 2, 1822, imd in 1848 became a resident of Illinois, settling in .Vdams county. The following year, accom])anied by his brother Mark, he went from Quincy to Peoria by steamboat and then walked to Bureau county in search of land. They afterward proceeded on foot to Dixon, Illinois, where the government land office was located and there they made their entries, after which they returned in the same manner of travel to Quincy. They selected a section of land adjoining the present village of Sheffield, James Masters Curtis taking the southeast quarter of section 18 and the southwest quartei' of section 17, Concord township. He and his brother Mark also made a trip into Iowa the same year, walking to Nauvoo, Illinois, whence they crossed the river and made their way to Muscatine, from which place they returned to Quincy by boat.

James M. Curtis was married December 15, 1850, to Miss Helen Maria Stevenson, of Adams county, who was a native of Carroll county, Maryland, and in her girlhood days had been brought to Illinois in 1837. There were six children of this marriage: Clifton, now of Davenport, Iowa; Harmon Edward, of Tiskilwa; Jessie May, the wife of C. C. Pervier, of Sheffield ; Charles Edgar, who is mentioned below; Helen Maria, who died at the age of nineteen years ; and Carrie Belle, the widow of B. R. Battey, of Tiskilwa. The mother of these children died November 7, 1871, and Mr. Curtis was afterward married, January 9, 1878, to Miss Maria C. Rice, of Hannibal, Oswego county, New York. Their only child, Robert Rice, was graduated at Knox College in Galesburg, Illinois, in 1901, and lives in Sheffield.

In the spring following his first marriage James M. Curtis settled upon the farm in Concord township, whereon he made his home until his death. The same year the survey of the Rock Island railroad was made. He built a small house upon his farm, sawing most of the lumber himself at Stephens mill. His original home was afterward replaced with a large and commodious dwelling which was erected in 1861. Although he came to the county with a cash capital of only two hundred and fifty dollars his business capacity and enterprise enabled him to accumulate extensive possessions and he was one of the large land owners of the county, having about nine hundred acres in Concord township and seven hundred and fifty acres in Gold township.

Mr. Curtis was regarded as a valued and respected citizen of his community and always took an active part in the economic management of public affairs, while for nine years he did effective service for his town on the board of supervisors. He held membership in the Unitarian church of Sheffield, which he joined on its organization in 1869. He was a man of honor, of integrity and upright character, and his memory is yet cherished by those who knew him as that of one of the most prominent and representative agriculturists of the county.

Mark Daniel Curtis, Ijrother of James 51. Curtis and associated with him in business xindertakings, was born July 29, 1824, at Cherry Valley, Otsego county. New York, his parents being Daniel and Mehifable (blasters) Curtis. In September, 1848, he arrived in Adams county, Illinois, in company with his brotlior, James il. (^urtis. and was there engaged in teaching schools. On the 8th of April, 1850, he started on the overland journey to California, arriving on the middle fork of the American river four months later. On the return trip he left San Francisco on the 4th of .\pril, journeying by way of Panama and arriving at Schaghticoke, Rensselaer county, New York, on the 20th of April after an expense of one hundred aud seveuty-five dollars for thu passage and a cheap suit of clothing. That he met with a measure of success during his western sojourn was indicated by a letter in which he wrote, "1 have a little more than nineteen hundred dollars." He probably arrived in Bureau county inside of two months after his return to Xew York and here he entered upon a successful career as an agriculturist and stock-raiser, having at the time of his death personal property to the amount of eighteen thousand dollars, consisting of hogs, cattle, horses, mules and farming machinery. In addition to this he owned twelve hundred and forty acreof land all in one body, beside an interest in some swamp land. He was married September 11, 1858, in Princeton, to Miranda Sarah Howie, who was born September 11, 1835, in Charlotteville, Schoharie countv, Xew York, a daughter of James and Eliza (Tabor) Howie. The death of Mark D. Curtis occurred January 10, 1872, and his remains were laid to rest in the Sheffield cemetery, where later the grave of his wife was also made, her demise occurring April 8, 1892.

From the foregoing it will be seen that Charles Edgar Curtis is a representative of one of the most prominent families in Bureau county, his father and uncle having both become extensive land owners and wealthy farmers. He pursued his education in the schools of Sheffield until he was graduated on the completion of the high school course in 1879, after which he returned to the home farm, where he remained until 1883. He then went to Van Horn, Iowa, where he entered mercantile business with his brother, Clifton, owning a general store there under the firm style of Curtis Brothers until January, 1888. The brothers then removed to Afton, Iowa, where they built the Afton Creamery, which they conducted together until 1890, when Charles E. Curtis purchased his brother's interest. Later he again purchased the store at Van Horn, Iowa, after selling the creamery, but in 1894 he disposed of his intere.«ts west of the Mississippi and returned to Siieffield, where his time and energies have since been devoted to the conduct of his farming and stockraising interests. He has extensive holdings here and his careful supervision annually ])romotes the value of his property and its productiveness.