Cass County, Illinois - The Part of Biography in General History - Citizens of Cass County and Outlines of Personal History - Personal Sketches Arranged in Encyclopedic Order, 1915 (part 4 of 10)

Thomas Gatton, the father of Zachariah W. Gatton. was born in the state of Maryland. in 1774. and was five years of age when taken by his parents to Kentucky, There he enyageil in merchandising when he had attained mature years. but in 1826 disposed of his Iwentucky interests and came to Illinois. settling in the north part. of Morgan County. which afterward became Cass County. He opened the first store in that locality. it being situated east of the present site of Little Indian station. and on September 18 of the same year he entered the west 15, northwest 4, section 35, township 17, range 10, and subsequently eighty acres in section 33, township 18, north, range 10, on which the old I. M. Stribling homestead now stands.

Zachariah W. Gatton received his early education in the subscription schools, this being supplemented by several years of attendance at the public schools, and his boyhood was passed on the home farm and in his father's' store. When a grown youth he qualified as a pilot on the Illinois River and during the several years in which he followed that vocation, made his home at Beardstown. However he soon returned to the pursuits of agriculture, and being very industrious and persevering succeeded in the accumulation of a large and valuable property adjoining the city of Virginia on the east. In his later years he branched out into other fields of activity, becoming particularly well known as a banker. He was one of the founders of the Farmers National Bank of Virginia, the first National bank in Cass County, of which he was for a number of years president. A man of the strictest integrity in all the affairs of life, he bore an honorable reputation among his associates and in his death, which occurred July 29, 1896. his community lost one of its best and most helpful citizens. Mr. Gatton was a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian church. He was politically an old line Whig until the organization of the Republican party and then joined that organization and remained its stanch supporter until his death.

On March 25, 1847, in Cass County, IIl., by Nev. George Rutledge. of the Methodist Episcopal church, Mr. Gatton was married to Miss Sarah C. Miller, who was born at Madison. Ohio, May 18, 1822, a daughter of Arthur St. Clair Miller, who was born at Middletown, Conn.. in 1790, and moved to Kentucky in 1827. Mrs. Gatton is still living at her home in Virginia. having reached the somewhat unusual age of ninety-three years. Six children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Gatton, all at Virginia: twins. who died in infaney; Charles B.. born April 14, 1850; and Emma, Isate, and William R.

GEBHARDS, Conrad, Jr. - One of the well known and promising young farmers of Cass County, Ill. who can muster many friends among the host of agricultural toilers of his own age in that vicinity. is the man whose name stands at the head of this personal record. Like many Others in the same occupation he is of German descent. and inherits sturdy and_ substantial traits of character inherent in many of those of that nationality who have chosen to follow the work to which the paternal example led. Mr. Gebhards' home is near Chandlerville. and his farm Jies in section 32, township 19, range S. where his mother dwells with him. The postoffice address is Chandlerville. Cass County, I1., IRF JES IDE SO, le

Conrad Gebhards. Jr.. was born on the farm where he now lives. September 28, 1892. His father. Conrad Gebhards, Sr.. was a German by birth. and his mother. born in Cass County, was Catherine Ray before marriage. When the father first came to the United States he located in Petersburg, Menard County, and after farming there for awhile, moved to Cass County w here he bought land and spent the remainder of his life in farming and stockraising. At the time of his death he was considered an old settler in western Illinois. In his youth, Conrad Gebhards, Jr., attended the district schools of his neighborhood, and then clerked for two years in a store in Chandlerville, Ill., returning at the end of that period to the home farm, where he has since remained. His mother and three brothers are interested in the farm, which consists of 160 acres, and besides farming raising stock is carried on.

On December 25, 1912, in Cass County, Mr. Gebhards was united in marriage with Bessie Hohimer, born in Menard County, Ill. January 14. 1893, daughter of John and Eliza (Elmore) Hohimer, of Sangamon and Menard counties. respectiv ely. They have one daughter, Zelma Kk. Mr. Gebhards is a young man of pleasant disposition, quite sociable and hospitable, and is much liked by his neighbors. His religious connection is with the Baptist church. Although not active in politics, he acts with the Democratic party.

GERDES, William R., of Chandlerville, Ill., is a well known and industrious farmer, who is engaged in operating 160 acres of his own land and 192 acres, which he rents, in section 36, township 19, range 9, Cass County, Il., and besides farming, devotes considerable attention to the raising of Shorthorn cattle and Duroc Jersey hogs. He lives on a part of the farm that his father formerly owned. The latter, Folker W. Gerdes, who was born in Germany, was also a farmer and stockraiser. He came to the United States about 1855, settling in Cass County, and after working for awhile on different farms. bought land and improved it. On April 6, 1864, he was united in marriage with Mary E. Ray, a native of Cass County. They reared a family of children, one of whom is William R. Gerdes. He was born December 25, 1869. He attended the district schools of the neighborhood, and from early youth also spent time in performing duties on the farm. For some time he was connected with a creamery in Chandlerville. but since then has been occupied wholly in tilling the soil and raising stock. As a farmer his labor has been attended by success, and he is considered one of the thriving agriculturists of his locality.

On August 10, 1898, Mr. Gerdes was wedded by Rey. A. Sloan to Rosa M. Lewis, born July 25, 1875, a daughter of Kilbourn and Nancy Ann (Lucas) Lewis, natives of Cass County. They have children as follows: Lena Ethel, born September 6, 1894; Ernest Vern, born January 6, 1897: Bessie Mae, born September 18, 1901; Alva Ellsworth, born September 23, 1908; and Beulah Alice. born September 26, 1910.

In politics he acts with the Democratic party, and has rendered efficient public service as school director. In fraternal circles Mr. Gerdes is affiliated with the M. W. A. No. 3274, at Newmanville, Ill.; and the Court of Honor, at Chandlerville, while Mrs. Gerdes is a member of the Royal Neighbors and the Court of Honor.

Mr. and Mrs. Gerdes are sociable, genial and kindly people, and those who know them most intimately are their best friends, although they are popular with all their neighbors.

GERSMEYER, Charles H., one of the substantial men of Cass County, has attained to his present desirable position among his fellow citizens of Beardstown through honorable methods and the exercise of native ability. He was born in Germany, February 26, 1878, a son of Charles and Anna Maria (Bollman) Gersmeyer, natives of Germany. The father was a brick and plaster contractor, having learned his trade in Germany. He came to Beardstown in 1S81. and here died, but the mother survives and still resides at Beardstown. Charles H. Gersmeyer was educated in the parochial schools of Cass County, and learned the cigar-making trade, which he followed until he started a business of his own in 1902, and is now a manufacturer and dealer in cigars. He owns his place of business and his residence and is considered a man of means. For twelve years he has been a member of the Knights of Pythias, and he also belongs to the Red Men. The Fourth Street Lutheran church of Beardstown holds his membership, and in his political views he is a Democrat.

On December 6, 1898, Mr. Gersmeyer was married to Minnie Heuer, a daughter of Carl and Louisa (Moeller) Heuer, all being natives of Germany. Mr. and Mrs. Gersmeyer have had three children: Lillian. who was born September 28, 1899; Bernice. who was born April 11, 1907: and Carl F., born February 26. 1910, died in August, 1910. Mr. Gersmeyer is a man of genial, sociable inclinations and devoted to his business and family. The progress he has made has been fairly earned, and he stands well in his community.

GERSMEYER, Frederick William, a eontracting carpenter and builder, is one of the men who has worked hard to bring about.a better standard in construction work in Cass County, and has erected some of the leading structures at Beardstown and other points. He was born in Germany, December 17, 1875, a son of Carl and Anna M. (Bollman) Gersmeyer, natives of Germany. The father, who was a brickl layer and Plasterer, left Germany in 1881 for the United States. and upon his arrival in this country

Frederick William Gersmeyer was reared at Beardstown and educated in its schools. He learned the carpenter trade and worked at it a few years. when he went into business with an associate under the firm name of Reller &

Gersmeyer, which still continues. In addition to his interests in connection with this firm, Mr. Gersmeyer owns his residence at No. 30S West Eighth street, Beardstown, and has stock in the Beardstown State Bank.

On January 18, 1906, Mr. Gersmeyrer was married in Cass County, Ill., to Sophia M. Heuer, born in Germany, November 5, 1873, a daughter of Carl and Louisa (Moeller) Heuer, both natives of Germany. Mr. and Mrs. Gersmeyer have no children. He is a Democrat politically, and fraternally belongs to Beardstown Camp No. 579, M. W. A. Both he and wife belong to the Lutheran church of Beardstown. Mr. Gersmeyer is a very industrious man, a master of his trade, and one whose social proclivities and good natured manner make him a favorite wherever he goes.

GLENN, Robert B., manager of the Glenn Pure Tce Company, is one of the representative men of Cass County, and one who is prominently identified with the best interests of Beardstown. He was born in Lima, Ohio, March 18, 1876, a son of William Marshall and Mary (Curtis) Glenn. Mr. Glenn was educated in the Fort Wayne (Indiana) public schools and in the International Business College of that city. In May, 1898. he became connected with the Fort Wayne Artificial Ice Company as bookkeeper and remained with that company until October, 1894, when he resigned to accept service as fireman on a branch of the C. H. & D. R. R. at Dayton, Ohio. Later he accepted a position as fireman on the Middle Division of the Wabash R. R. at Decatur, Ill, and on March 10, 1898, he was promoted to the position of engineer. He served in this capacity until October, 1901, when he resigned to accept a similar position with the Terminal Railroad Association of St. Louis. In October. 1903, he became connected with the Jacksonville and St. Louis R. R., and served with this company as engineer and round house foreman at Jacksonville, Ill. until May, 1904. When the road was absorbed by the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy he was transferred to Beardstown and served in the capacity of engineer until 1910, when he was appointed road foreman of engines of the Beardstown Division. In April. 1911, he resigned this position to accept the presidency of the Beardstown Electric Light and Power Company. On January 1, 1913. the property of this company passed into the hands of the Central Illinois Public Service Company, and Mr. Glenn was retained as district superintendent of District

On June 1. 1911, Mr. Glenn was married to Winifred Emmerson Harris, of Beardstown, a daughter of John Henry and Ann (Emmerson) Harris. The Harris family is one of the oldest and most highly respected in Cass County. Mr.

and Mrs. Glenn have one son, John Harris Glenn, who was born March 20, 1914. Mr. Glenn comes from an old railroad family, his father having been connected with the Pennsylvania Railroad for fifty-five years.

Mr. Glenn belongs to the Methodist church. In politics he is a Republican. I*raternally he belongs to Beardstown Lodge No. 1007 B. P. O. E.; E. St. Louis Lodge No. 504, A. F. & A. M.; Clark Chapter No. 29 R. A. M.; Division No. 665 B. of L. E.; Illinois State Gas and Electric Associations, and the Air Brake Association.

GREEN, Nicholas, now living practically retired at Beardstown, although still vitally interested in current events, is one of the substantial men of Cass County. He was born in Luxemburg, December 20, 1844, a son of John and Margaret (Hoffman) Green. John Green died in Luxemburg, and his widow later married her first husband's brother, and in 1853 they started on a sailing vessel for the United States. The voyage consumed seven weeks, and after they landed at New York they made their way to Chicago, Ill., and from there by boat proceeded to Port Washington, Wis. There Mrs. Green died, and Mr. Green later married a widow with two children. The family became a large one, as Nicholas Green had four brothers and sisters, and later there were several half brothers and sisters,

In spite of these several elements in the family, Nicholas Green continued to live at home and remained until he was fifteen years old, although he received but few educational advantages. At that age he came to Springfield, Ill., where he found employment in a private family. On April 1, 1863, he enlisted for service in the Civil war, in Company D, Fourth Illinois Cavalry, and his regiment was ordered to a point twenty-five miles from Memphis, Tenn. After the fall of Vicksburg, Company A, of the same regiment, was assigned to duty as General Grant's body guard, and when General Grant and General Sherman left Vicksburg, the whole regiment was sent to Texas, where Mr. Green was honorably discharged in April, 1866. During his service he was advanced from private to corporal, and then to bugler, and continued as such until his discharge. While on a scouting expedition his horse was killed, throwing him into a ditch, and both of his wrists were sprained, and several times thereafter he was injured in the same manner, but otherwise escaped with the exception of a sunstroke, received at Vicksburg.

Following his discharge, he returned to Springfield, Ill. It was his intention to attend school, but found it not advisable to do so owing to the effects of the sunstroke above mentioned. and finally went to Chauncey. I1]1., where he worked about two years, during which time he had his foot injured while assisting in loading a wagon with stone. In 1872 he came to Beardstown and worked on the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad. during the time that the railroad bridge was built across the

Illinois River. Following this he began working for farmers, and then rented land at Bluff Springs for five years, following which he rented another farm in the Sangamon bottom for a year, when he went to Iowa and bought a farm. Within a year, however, he sold out and returned to Beardstown, where he once more entered the employ of the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad, and was in their shops for many years. Owing to continued ill health he then retired from active work. He has acted as janitor of the Methodist church since 1910.

On April 17, 1873, Mr. Green married Mary Douglas, born at Beardstown, March 29, 1541, a daughter of Peter Douglas. and they became the parents of the following children: John D., who was born January 24, 1875, lives at Beardstown; Paul McClure, who was born July §, 1877, lives at Beardstown; and Allen N., who was born August §. 1880, died in Wisconsin in 1882, The Congregational church holds his membership, and in politics Mr. Green is a Republican.

GREENMEYER, Ernest H., for the past twentyfive years the popular and efficient city engineer of Beardstown, Cass County, Ill.. is a native of this city. where his birth took place January 11, 1861. He isa son of John Frederick and Dorothy (Friecke) Greenmeyer, who were born in Hanover, Germany, where they grew up and were married. then emigrated to the United States, crossing the ocean to New Orleans by sailing vessel, and up the rivers by boat to Beardstown. where they located on a farm at the edge of the town. John Frederick Greenmeyer spent the remainder of his life there engaged in farming and died in 1882 at the age of sixty years. his widow passing away in 1894, when seventyfour years old. They had the following children: Anna (Mrs. John W. Hobrock). who died in 1885; Mary (Mrs. Dr. J. A. Folonie), deceased in 1897: and Ernest H.

In boyhood Ernest H. Greenmeyer attended the German Lutheran and public schools of Beardstown. and at the age of thirteen years began to work on a farm by the month. continuing this until he was twenty-one years old. At this period he started in the employ of the c., B. & Q. Railroad in the shops in Beardstown, where he remained two years. He then hecame an engineer, but the railroad strike in February. 1888, caused him to give this up, and he fired and ran extra on the Big Four Railroad from Mattoon, Ill.. for two and one-half years. Later he was employed two and one-half years at Lafayette. Ind.. and returning to Beardstown became city engineer, which position he has since held.

On May 1, 1884, Mr. Greenmeyer was united in marriage with Dina Ioblenz, the ceremony being performed at Beardstown, where Mrs. Greenmeyer was horn. She is a daughter of Charles and Marguerite (Depe) Koblenz. natives of Prussia, Germany. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Greenmeyer are as follows: Theresa. wife of A. J. Nolden, engineer of the Beardstown

Milling Company; C. O., of Chicago, Ill, with the Continental and Commercial National Bank: and Dorothy D., wife of Fred Valentiner, of Beardstown, engineer on the C., B. & Q. Rk. QL. Mr. Greenmeyer is a member of the German Lutheran church. He has been identified with the B. of L. F. & E. of Beardstown since 1856 and is also afhiliated with the Court of Honor. He and his family are respected and esteemed wherever their acquaintance extends.

GREENWOOD, Knolton A. - The agricultural activities of Cass County are many, and the interested parties are men of prominence and good common sense. To their efforts is due much of the fertility of the land and the consequent abundance of the crops. One of the above mentioned men it Knolton A. Greenwood, of township 1S, range 9, who is now operating the homestead of his parents, which he owns.

Ixnolton <A. Greenwood was born February 21, 1852, a son. of C. Decatur and Eliza Ann (Duckwilder) Greenwood, the former born in Roanoke County, Va., who, in 1851, moved to lllinois, settling at Chandlerville, the birthplace of his son, Knolton. There he rented land, although able to buy if he had wanted to do so. At that time it was considered more profitable to conduct another's property than to invest in the uncultivated land. In 1879. however, conditions having changed, he bought 120 acres of timber at Oregon Point, township 18, range 9, and with the help of his sons cleared off the timber and made many improvements. After the death of his wife, in 1899, he and his son Iknolton kept house together until his death in 07. He and his wife were the parents of sixteen children, nine of whom survire. namely : William, who is of Virginia; Flora, who is Mrs. August Frederick. of Chicago: Knolton; Frank, who is of Chandlerville: Samuel. who is of Virginia, Ill.; Joseph. who is of Decatur, Ill.: Lucretia, who is Mrs. John Miller, of Virginia, Tll.: Mrs. Haley Cappor. who lives at Chandlerville: and Emma, who is Mrs. Barrett, of Rockford, Tl.

Knolton A. Greenwood grew up on his father's farm, attending the schools of his district and gave valuable assistance in the early work of the farm. When the other children married and went to homes of their own. Knolton was called upon to assume the care of his parents and gaye them filial attention. Later he bought the homestead where he resides, and takes great pride in this fine property. He has never married. In politics he is a Democrat.

GREENWOOD, William I. - One of the old and honored residents of Virginia, Ill.. who is now living a retired life after many years spent in agricultural pursuits in Cass County, is William TI. Greenwood. His career has been one of sturdy industry and tireless perseverance, and his honorable and well-directed efforts hare been crowned by material success and the respect and esteem of his fellow men. Mr. Greenwood was born on the top of the highest moun-

Commodore Decatur Greenwood was born in Virginia, January 5, 1821, and was there engaged as a planter, his principal farming product being tobacco. There, in 1846, he was married to Eliza Ann Duckwiler, daughter of Isaac and Flora Duckwiler, and they became the parents of the following children: Mary, William I., Sarah, Flora, Knolton, John, Charles, Decatur, Frank, Margaret, Lucretia, Samuel, Joseph, James, Rosetta and Emma. Mr. Greenwood came to Cass County, Il., in 1852 with his brother and _ brother-in-law, and located at Chandlerville, where he worked at the carpenter trade for some time before taking up agriculture, after which he continued a tiller of the soil during the remainder of his active life and died at Philadelphia, Ill., November 21, 1899, his wife, who had been born August 5, 1828, passing away September 21, 1899. They were members of the Dunkard church. During the Civil war Mr. Greenwood was drafted into the Union service, but was able to secure his discharge for the sum of $600, by reason of an agreement between the church, as its tenets oppose war, and the government.

William I. Greenwood was a child of four years when he accompanied his parents to Cass County, and here his education was secured in the district schools. Reared to agricultural pursuits, he was an agriculturist during all the active years of his life, and is still the owner of a tract of ten acres, at the city limits. Here he is enjoying the comforts that his life of industry has brought him, and is surrounded by his devoted family and a large circle of appreciative friends. On January 11, 1877, Mr. Greenwood was married to Miss Mary Jane Wright. daughter of James and Cecelia Jane (Griffin) Wright. | Ten children have been born to this union; an infant, deceased; Oscar; Dolly, Bertha and Millard, all deceased; Earl; William; Ruth; Cecelia A. and Marie.

James Wright. father of Mrs. Greenwood, was born July S, 1828. in Kentucky, and died in April, 1904, at Wichita, Kan. He was married in Cass County May 1, 1851, to Cecelia Jane Griffin, born October 24, 1831, who died January 4, 1894, and they became the parents of the following children: Cyrus, deceased ; Cecelia Jane, Jasper, Eliza, Elizabeth, Ellen, Alice. Albert and Ida. The family is connected with the Baptist church.

GREVE, Henry, now living retired at Beardstown. but formerly one of the enterprising business men of Cass County, is entitled to the confidence and respect of his fellow-townsmen for he has earned such regard. He was born in Hanover, Germany, May 20, 1844. When twentytwo years old he started from his native land, and on September 28, 1888. he landed in New York City, after a vovage of ten weeks on the ocean. Being a cigar maker. he worked at his trade for some months in New York, having joined his brother, who had come to that city in 1865 and was engaged in the same line. However, as he had some friends at Beardstown, Ill., he decided to join them at that point, and on April 2, 1867, traveled as far as Peoria by railroad, and from there went down the Illinois River to Beardstown. Upon his arrival he opened a cigar factory on east Fourth street, but in the fall of that year moved to Main street, where he continued in business until 1873, when he built a fine two-story brick store at No. 113 W. Main street. There he built up a large business, manufacturing many brands of cigars that attained considerable popularity. He took his brother Antone into partnership with him in 1876, and they continued together until 1880, when the latter embarked in a business of his own in the same line, and it is still in existence. In May, 1913, Mr. Greve sold his factory to his son, W. F. Greve, and retired. On July 23, 1867, Mr. Greve married Anna Reller, born in Hanover, Germany, who came to the United States at the same time as her husband. Their children have been as follows: Louisa, who is the widow of John Stoker, lives at Twelfth and Monroe streets, Beardstown, My. Stoker having lost his life through an accident, March 16, 1904; Carrie, who died April 9, 1900: Henry, who is connected with the First State Bank of Beardstown; John; Anna, who is at home; Fred, who is a railroad engineer; William F., who is conducting the cigar business ; Emma, who is Mrs. Edward Howard of Beardstown; and Hilda. who is Mrs. William Stulkel, of Beardstown. The Lutheran church holds his membership, and he is the historian of the Central Illinois District of his church, which is composed of twenty-one counties. While a Democrat in politics, he has never sought or desired office. He belongs to the A. O. U. W. of Beardstown, and has been a dominent figure in it.

GREVE, William F., a cigar manufacturer and cigar merchant at Beardstown, is a descendant of German-American people who did so much to make Cass County one of the leading sections of Illinois. He is one of the respected residents and substantial business men of Beardstown. Mr. Greve was born at Beardstown, December 29, 1882, a son of Henry Greve, born in Germany, a cigar manufacturer and tobacco merchant. A sketch of Henry Greve is given in this work.

William F. Greve was educated in the schools of Beardstown and the Chicago Metropolitan Business College, attending the latter institution for a year. Learning the cigar-making trade in his father's factory, he worked as an employe until May, 19138, when he bought his father's business and has since continued to operate it, making a success of his undertaking. In politics. Mr. Greve is a Democrat. He has not desired public office. In fraternal matters he belongs to Beardstown Lodge, I. O. O. F. No. 16; Beardstown Lodge, B. P. O. E. No. 1007, and Beardstown Lodge of Moose No. 985. An

GRIDLEY, Charles A - - The members of the legal fraternity of Cass County are notably men of superior intelligence and their reputation for ability is well merited, and many practice in all of the courts. A representative member of the Cass County bar who is an honor to his profession, and to Virginia as well, is the Hon. Charles A. Gridley, who has not only carried on a general law practice for years, but has filled ably and satisfactorily the several important offices to which he has been elected.

Charles A. Gridley was born at Virginia, [l., January 10, 1874, a son of James Norman and Frances (Hill) Gridley. After attending the public schools of Virginia, he took a course at Iknox College. Galesburg, Ill., and later went to the University of Michigan, from which he was graduated from both the literary and law departments in 1896. Returning to Virginia, he entered his father's office, and has been engaged in a general law practice ever since, specializing on abstract work. In 1900 he was elected state's attorney for Cass County, and was re-elected to that office in 1904. Prior to this. he had served as city attorney from 1898S to 1900. He and his father own the only set of abstract records of Cass County.

In April, 1911, Mr. Gridley married Dorothy Plahn, a daughter of George and Jane (Loosley ) Plahn. Mr. and Mrs. Gridley have no children. His standing as an attorney and citizen is unquestioned, and he has many friends not only among the general public, but in the fraternal order of Knights of Pythias, of which he is a charter member, and was first chancellor commander. He belongs also to the Maccabees and the Elks at Jacksonville.

HACKMAN, Edward Franklin, for many years one of the leading agriculturalists of Cass County, is now living retired, his two sons conducting his homestead. He was born in township 17, range 11, this county. November 28, 1855, a son of John Frederick and Angeline (Meyer) Hackman. The parents were natives of Hanover, Germany. The grandparents, Gerhardt and Mary Hackman, came to Cass County, Ill., in 1884. The maternal grandfather died in Cass County in 1835, about three months from the time he came here from Germany. The two families settled in the vicinity of Arenzville, first entering land from the government, and later adding to their holdings by purchase. After the marriage of John Frederick Hackman and Angeline Meyer, they located two miles from Arenzville, in township 17, range 11. There John Frederick secured about 570 acres of land and operated it until his death in 1898S. His widow lived until 1908, when she too, passed away. Their children were as follows: Wilhelmina, who is the widow of Henry Winklehake, of Beardstown; Herman W., who is of Beardstown: Sophia, who is Mrs. M. L. Kors, of Beatrice, Nebr.; Matilda, who is of Beardstown;

Edward Franklin; Sarah, who is Mrs. Philip Jokisch, of Bluff Springs, this county ; Henry BY, who is of Lincoln, Nebr.; and Emma, who died at the age of twenty years. :

Edward Franklin Hackman resided with his parents until his marriage, when he moved to his present farm of 240 acres on sections 23 and 26, township 17, range 12 in Arenzville Precinct, about 220 acres of which are under cultivation, the balance being in pasturage and timber. Mr. Hackman carries on general farming. This property was originally a portion of the homestead, but in 1890 Mr. Hackman purchased it from his father. In the spring of 1914 he retired from active participation in the farm work.

On March 8S, 1882, Mr. Hackman married Amelia Paulina Jokisch, born in Bluff Springs, this county, March 27, 1859, a daughter of Gotthelf and Elenora (Carls) Jokisch, natives of Germany. Mr. and Mrs. Hackman became the parents of the following children: Elmer F., who is of Chicago; Orville E., who is of Cass County; Cora M., who is Mrs. Lorenzo Burrus, of Cass County; Morton H., and Earl R., who are at home. Mr. Hackman was educated in the schools of his district, and during his mature years has served this district as a school director and has been treasurer of the board. For three years he was district commissioner. In politics he is a Republican. The Methodist church holds his membership. A man of sincere purposes, he has always done what he considered his full duty, and stands very high in public esteem.

HACKMAN, Louis C., one of the substantial and representative retired farmers of Cass County, was, at one time, one of the leading agriculturalists of his locality. and has done his part in the upbuilding of his community. He was born in this county, October 12, 1846, a son of William and Elizabeth (Meyer) Hackman, natives of Hanover, Germany, he born in 1820, a son of John FE, and Maria (Struve) Hackman.

In coming to the United States, John E. Hackman made the trip on a sailing vessel which consumed seven weeks and two days in the voyage. He landed at old Castle Garden, N. Y., from whence he went to Buffalo, from there crossed Lake FErie and landed at Cleveland, Ohio. From that city by canal he reached the Ohio River, and vyoyaged down it to Cairo, IL, then traveled up the Mississippi River to St. Louis, and then up the Illinois River to Beardstown. Following his arrival in Cass County, he bought 120 acres in township 12, range 11, but before they located upon it, he was taken sick and died. The grandmother of Louis C. Hackman then moved on the farm with her children, but after some years, she went to live with a daughter, Mrs. Mary Bushman of Beardstown, where she died at the age of seventy-two years. The children were: William, Fred, Gerhardt, Henry and Mary.

county and became the owner of 500 acres of land, still owning this property at the time of his death, January 30, 1905. He married Elizabeth Meyer, who died February 16, 1905. The children of these parents were: Louis C., Mrs. Lucinda Heierman of Morgan County, IIL, Matilda, Louisa and Edwin.

Louis C. Hackman lived with his parents until they died, and was manager of the homestead from 1878 until his acquisition of it. In March, 1880, he invested in land in Richardson County, Neb., and kept adding to it until he had 480 acres. In 1908 he sold 160 acres, and the balance in 1912. Another operation was in 1899, when he bought 120 acres, and rented it until the spring of 1913, when he sold it. He owns the old original homestead of 140 acres, to which he added twenty acres. In addition to his other holdings, he owns 700 acres of land in Pike County, eighty acres of which is in pasture. and the balance under cultivation. At present Mr. Hackman is living two miles northwest of Arenzville.

County, Ill.. who married Nettie Divers; Oliver W.. who is at home and conducts the homestead: and Zelma L.. who is at home. Mr. Hackman is a Methodist and has served his church as a trustee since 1908. He is a Democrat, and from 1880 to 1889 was a comuniissioner of Cass County. .

HALL, J. W., senior member of the firm of Hall & Duchardt. manufacturers of all kinds of harness and saddles to order. as well as dealers in all varieties of heavy and light harness. is one of the substantial business men of Virginia. The firm are located in the Downing building, and own the only power manufacturing plant in Cass County that is operated by electricity. The firm was formed in October, 1910, and the connections then made have continued profitably ever since.

J. W. Hall was born in Morgan County, IIL, February 14. 1855. a son of James and Ellen (Phifer) Hall. His educational training was obtained in Morgan and Cass counties, and his practical education was obtained when he learned the harnessmaking trade at Chandlersville and Springfield. Ill. He went to the latter city in 1877. and in addition to working at his trade. he has turned his attention to several other lines of endeavor, having been in the realestate business and also handled horses. For two years he acted as a guard at the Federal prison at Ft. Leavenworth. 'Ixas. In 1909, Mr. Hall was elected a justice of the peace. and, re-elected to the same office in 1913, still fills it. He is a member of the Presbyterian church.

mauga, during the Civil war, and his wife, Louisa (Yeck) Jackson, who was born in Cass County, Ill. Mr. and Mrs. Hall have had five children: Claud W., who is in the National Home, at Leavenworth, Kas.; William A., who is working in the ice plant of the same institution; Verna B., who is Mrs. Frank Frame, of Bonner Springs, Kas.; Ethel B., who is Mrs. Roy B. Slotts, of Bonner Springs, Kas., where her husband is cashier of the First National Bank; and Sheldon, who is a high school student of Bonner Springs, Kas.

HALL, Robert. - This chapter contains an interesting record of the career of one whose experience in Cass County has been contemporaneous with the advent of the pioneer settlers of western Illinois, and whose recollections are coincident with -the period when this region had hardly begun to emerge from the solitude of a wilderness.

Robert Hall, one of the most extensive land owners and cattle raisers in Cass County, was born June 19, 1885, in the town of Virginia, Ill.. and was the first white child born in Cass County, the event occurring in the little frame structure which his parents occupied on their arrival in this region, and which is still standing. being known as the first dwelling put up in the district. He is a son of Dr. Henry Hammond Hall, a native of County Antrim, Ireland, who emigrated to America at an early age, and first settled in Accomac County, Va. There, in 1818, he was married to Ann H. P. Beard, a daughter of Matthew and Ann H. P. Beard. On April 3, 1835, they came to Illinois, and were one of the first families to settle in Cass County. They had spent the winter in Philadelphia, whence they came down the Ohio River, and then up to Beardstown, moving thence to Virginia, Ill., where Dr. Hall engaged in merchandizing.

branch. Dr. Hall encouraged the first churches in the place. and was the first to establish a store in Virginia, bringing mercantile goods With him when he came. He was a physician by profession, but practiced only in urgent cases. Dr. Hall also erected the first Cass County courthouse and jail, at that time a part of Morgan County. and the Doctor, by reason of his superior intelligence and his technical culture, was an authority on many matters throughout the whole region, his influence being great. Extended mention of Dr. Hall will be found in this work. He was born in 1798, and his wife in 1799. the former dying in 1847, and the latter, in 1880, aged S1 years. Their children were as follows: John. John second, Henry, Henry second. Eliza, Eliza second, and Anna Pitt, Robert and Jane.

Robert Hall was educated in the subscription schools. obtaining but a few months of instruction in a year. He herded the cattle on the prairie, and the grass, in the hot wouths, fre- quently caught fire, and serious trouble followed. Mr. Hall began farming in 1851, and followed agricultural pursuits and _ trading throughout his life. In 1883 he moved into Nitginia, where he has since maintained his residence.

In 1859, in Kansas, Mr. Hall was married to Anna D. McClure, who died July 24, 1892, a daughter of Samuel and Louisa (Graft) McClure. They had four children, as follows: Louisa A., deceased; Eliza P., Roberta G. (Mrs. W. B. Stribling) of Virginia, Il., and Henry Samuel, who married Florence Dunaway, of Denver, Colo. The second marriage of Mr. Hall took place June 23, 1896, to Ida Lee James. She was a daughter of John W. and Catherine (Williamson) James, of Virginia. Mrs. Hall was born in North Carolina, and came to Illinois when a child.

Mr. Hall has had, at one time, on his farm more than 1000 head of cattle, and is one of the largest land owners in Cass County. He was one of the principal organizers of the Centennial National Bank of Virginia, which was chartered February 24, 1876, with a capital of $50,000, with the following officers: president, John A. Petefish: vice president, A. J. Angier; cashier, John Woods; directors. A. J. Angier, John <A. VPetefish. Daniel Biddlecome, T. J. Crum, J. H. Bates, A. Struble, Robert Hall, W. L. Black and Thomas Dunaway. Mr. Hall also helped to organize the Virginia Coal Company, and sold the land for the use of the Agricultural Association as a fair ground. He participated in the organization of this body and accepted a directorship, and for many years acted as superintendent.

It may be said of Robert Hall as his prolonged and useful life develops towards its culmination, that he has been identified with more important enterprises than any other citizen of his section.

HAMILTON, John W. - One of the most respected residents of Virginia. Cass County, IIL, passed away, and one of the most valuable citizens was lost to the community, when John W. Hamilton died, on November 19, 1906. He was long an industrious and thrifty farmer, and did much to promote the agricultural growth and prosperity, and to enhance the civic and moral welfare of the portion of the county with which his useful life was identified. Many are the friends who remember Mr. Hamilton with pleasant recollections of his kindness as a neighbor, and his trustworthiness in the relationships of everyday intercourse.

John W. Hamilton was born in the state of Indiana, July 30, 1845, and was a son of James and Melinda Hamilton. natives of Virginia. By trade, the father was a cooper, but he also followed farming. and spent a busy career in Indiana and Illinois. In his youth John W. Hamilton attended the common schools of his neighborhood. and on _ reaching maturity, applied himself to farming. Thus he continued for several years. prospering in all his under- takings, and through patient toil and judicious management, gained a competency. He was a soldier in the Civil war having enlisted for 100 days in 1864, in Company G, One Hundred and Forty-fifth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and being honorably discharged December 15, 1864. He was identified with the G. A. R., belonging to the post in Virginia.

On March 26, 1884. Mr. Hamilton was married to Elizabeth Williamson, born in Jacksonville, Il]., a daughter of Thomas and Nancy Needam Williamson. natives of England. After his marriage, Mr. Hamilton moved to Vernon County, Mo., where he owned a farm. This he carried on farming until 1904, when he abandoned agricultural pursuits, and retiring from active life, established his home in Virginia. His estimable widow still occupies an attractive residence in the city where his last days were spent, and where she has numerous devoted friends. She is a valued member of the Methodist Episcopal church, in which her lamented husband officiated as trustee and as steward. In political matters. Mr. Hamilton, although not seeking public preferment, always acted with the Republican party.

HANSMEIER, Simon. - Among the old time residents of Cass County. Illinois. whose personality still keeps fresh in mind the recollections of the Civil war, and make them especially interesting characters to the patriotic element of a later generation. is Simon Hansmeier. who is widély known, and well liked wherever his acquaintance extends.

Simon Hansmeier, agent of the Beardstown Overland Bridge, is a native of Prussia, Germany, Where his birth took place September 18, 1842. With his parents. Henry and Louisa (Hauer) Hansmeier, he came to America when but six years old. The family located in St. Louis. Mo., in 1848, when the cholera was prevalent there and the mother died of the disease. The father. with his children, Fred, Henry August and Simon, then went to Wisconsin, where he married again. one daughter being the issue of the second union. who left home when she became of age, and was never afterwards heard from.

At the age of fourteen years Simon Hansmeier came to Beardstown. Tll.. and was employed by farmers until the commencement of the Civil war. On August 6, 1862, at Beardstown, he enlisted in Company A. One Hundred and Fourteenth Tllinois Volunteer Infantry, which was a part of the Army of the Mississippi, and served until the end of the war. For a long time the regiment to which he was attached Was in pursuit of Gen. Price and then came the battle of Jackson, where he was engaged. He fought at the Siege of Vicksburg. and on June 10, 1864, was captured by the Confederates at the battle of Guntown, Miss., and was thrown into Andersonville prison. where he_ suffered incredible hardships until the close of the war.

When released, by reason of his weakened condition through filthy surroundings and hunger, he was carried out ona stretcher. His torture often from thirst had been beyond description, but after a time in their imprisonment, a fine bubbling spring burst forth, between the dead line and the stockade, which was hailed by the feverish soldiers as a direct act of Providence. It afforded an ample drinking supply, and saved many lives. After the close of the war Mr. Hansmeier returned to Beardstown, and on recovering his strength applied himself again to farming.

On January 10, 1866, Mv. Hansmeier was married to Mary Cremps, a daughter of Casper Cremps. Six children resulted from this union, as follows: Henry. of Canton, Ill.; Emma (Mrs. John Ruple). of Beardstown; John, of Peoria ; Frank. of Canton, Ill.; Tillie, at home with her father, and George. of Beardstown. The family residence is at No. 407 West Fourth street, Beardstown, to which place the father moved in 1sss8 on quitting farm work, although until 1904 he combined farm and team work. After that he served for one year on the Beardstown police force. and then was appointed agent of the Beardstown Overland Bridge. He is a member of the G. A. R., McLean Post, No. 97, of Beardstown. in which he officiates as junior vice commander.

The family are members of the Fourth Lutheran church of Beardstown. The father and his wife. son and daughter are all fraternally affiliated with the Kk. & L. of H. Mr. Hansmeier is highly respected, and has a wide circle of friends throughout Cass County.

HARBISON, Robert F. - Some of the well known men of Cass County, after engaging for a time in agricultural pursuits, have moved from the country and located at one or other of the towns within its confines and there embarked in other lines of business where they hare attained equal prominence, thus proving that their abilities are not confined to any one industry. One of these men is Robert F. Harbison, an implement dealer at Chandlerville. He was born in Cass County, IJL, August 29, 1872. His father followed farming in Cass County.

2obert F. Harbison attended the public schools of his district. and afterward was a farmer for some yenrs. He then was on the road for ten years as a commercial traveler and then established his present implement business at Chandlerville. After locating here he began taking an active interest in local politics and was elected alderman from his ward and served for two rears in the city council. The Modern Woodmen of America and the Masons haye in im a faithful member. ms 8 Harbison was married to Daisy M. Eads, who was born March 4, 1878. Mr. and Mrs. Harbison have had two children: Lela May Boensell and Edward F. Harbison.

places, in our cities, which cater to the patronage of people of moderate means, and furnish a superior quality of entertainment for a minimum rate of admission, is one of the marvels of the present day. It is not too much to say that the projectors of the higher grade of such moderate priced exhibitions should be looked upon as public benefactors for, by amusing and edifying the members of whole families in attendance they stimulate the virtue of domesticity and promote the cause of sobriety and economy.

tepresentative of this class is the Princess theatre, Beardstown, Cass County, and its owner and former manager was Merton H. Harris, of this city. The Princess was built by Mr. Harris, who completed the structure October 19, 1911. In dimensions it is 52x115 feet, and CO feet high, having a large stage space sufficient to accommodate any high grade troupe. The seating capacity, including the balcony is (31 and the ventilation is furnished by the American Blower System, which affords 18,000 cubic feet of fresh air for every minute in the building. All the material of construction is steel and the curtain is asbestos, making the auditorium as nearly fireproof as possible, while the building is the first of its kind in Illinois to be lighted by indirect system. The curtain Was painted by Sosman & Landis, of Chicago, with beautiful scenic effects. The exits are six in number - four single and two double.

Mr. Harris has been in the amusement business since 1892. In 1907, with L. W. Goodell, he built the Gem theatre in Beardstown. This was first constructed for pictures only, but at a later period, Mr. Goodell added a stage. It was one of the first houses in the state intended solely for pictures. Mr. Harris sold his interest in the Gem in the spring of 1911 to Mr. Goodell. Before his connection with it (in 1893) he had bought the old Opera House and, together with Deppe Bros., and T. Kk. Coudet, had remodeled it, later selling it. On July 1, 1914, the Beardstown Amusement Company took over both theatres, and Mr. Goodell is now manager, Mr. Harris retiring from the active management.

Merton H. Harris was born in Cass County, Ill., March Sth, 1864, and is a son of John H. and Phoebe (Padon) Harris. In youth he received his mental training in the public schools, and formed an early business connection with Colonel Brown, of Jacksonville. On May 23, 1889, he was united in marriage with Emma L. Leason, a daughter of John and Julia Leason, and they had four children: Todd (deceased), Myrtle, Vidab, and Leason (deceased). In religious belief, the family of Mr. Harris is connected with the Methodist Episcopal church.

The fraternal affiliation of Mr. Harris is with the Knights of Pythias and the Modern Woodman of America, in both of which orders he has passed all the chairs, also representing both in the Grand Lodge. He is popular throughout a wide circle of acquaintance, and developed his theatrical enterprises into very prosperous concerns.

HASKELL, Charles I1 - Any detailed narrative tracing the tenure of many of the property holdings in the first farming settlement of what is now the Middle West, naturally leads to a review of the transitions undergone by them since the pioneer days, when the entire region was just emerging from primeval solitude. Among the old farming properties in western Illinois transmitted during the three past generations is that belonging to Charles I. Haskell, who was born in Virginia, Cass County, September 15, 1845, and is a son of John E. and Emeline (Brady) Haskell.

John E. Haskell was a native of Thomaston, Me., and died in Cass County, Il, in 1576. He came to Cass County in 1835, making his first journey by canal-boat and sleigh. The second time Mr. Haskell came to Cass County, he rode a pony, with a big New Foundland dog for company, and just east of the then village of Princeton worked in a mill for Beggs «& Brady. Later he bought this mill and moved it. in 1838, to his eleven acres of land which he had bought. This eleven acres of land was on the south side of the city square in Virginia, on which he pastured the cattle that did the work of treading for his mill. Subsequently this ground was subdivided into building lots and sold by his son, Charles I. Haskell. In this, which was the first woolen mill in the state, he carried on carding and weaving until 1565, when he disposed of the mill. He had learned the wool carding and weaving business before coming to the West.

The marriage of John E. Haskell and Emeline Brady took place at Virginia, in Cass County, Ill. She was born near Louisville, Ky., March 4, 1826, and was brought to Cass County in 1835, and died October 22, 1901, at the home of her brother, John J. Brady, in Pomona, Cal. Her remains were brought home and committed to the earth in the Virginia cemetery. The children otf John E. and Emeline (Brady) Haskell were: Lydia, who died in infancy; Charles I.; William E., whose bome is in Peabody, Kas. ; Adelia M. (Mrs. D. M. Duffield), of Springfield, Ill.: and Harry, John and Edward. who died in infancy.

In political affairs, John E. Haskell took an active part, first as an old-line Whig and afterwards as a Democrat, becoming a Democrat at the time of the Lincoln-Douglas campaign. For forty years he held the office of justice of the peace, never in all that time having a decision reversed. Short in stature and of portly form, be was known among lawyers throughout the state and elsewhere especially in Supreme court circles. and was: familiarly called "Pud" Haskell. After disposing of his mill. he relinquished all business effort. giving himself entirely to the duties pertaining to his official position.

Charles I. Haskell grew to manhood under the paternal roof, and received his early education in the public schools of the neighborhood. Beginning at the age of twelve years, he assisted his father in the mill, and continued a helper until he enlisted for service in the Civil war, January 4, 1865, in Company K, Thirtythird Illinois Volunteer Infantry, being assigned to the Sixteenth army corps. He served nearly a year, and, although not under fire, was a withess of the battles of Fort Blakeley and Spanish Fort while going down the Mississippi River. The boat that carried them, the James Watson, struck a snag and sank, at the mouth of White River, March 3, 1865. Mr. Haskell was injured in the back, and was taken to a New Orleans hospital. where he was confined for some time. His regiment was encamped on Bayou Beff on its way to Mobile, and was discharged at Vicksburg, January 1, 1866. My. Haskell proceeded to Springfield, where he received his final papers and was paid off and returned to Virginia, Cass County. He is a member of Stephenson Post No. 30 G. A. R. of Springtield. For about a year afterward Mr. Haskell was not very busy, but in 1867 he became a clerk in the general store of Stephenson & Bergen, for whom he worked until 1869. In that year, together with Charles Gatton. he bought out the grocery department of Stephenson & Bergen, and later sold to Dunaway & Raybourn. Afterwards he went to the Fast, spending a year in traveling and visiting in the vicinity of the old Haskell home in New England. <After returning to the West. he clerked for Joseph Stephenson, at Carlinville. for about a year, engaging then in the hotel business at Carlinville. This he disposed of in 1873 and then went to Decatur. where he was employed in the old Tlinois Central Depot Hotel until the spring of 1S75.

On May 25, 1875, at Virginia. Il1., Mr. Haskell Was married to Mary C. Cole. who died December 17, 1SO7, and was buried at Virginia. She Was a daughter of Robert and Kathryn (Soule) Cole. They had one child. John R., of Pittsfield. Ill.. a wholesale tobacco clerk.

Politically, Mir. Haskell is a Democrat. He Was appointed postmaster by VPresident Clereland and served as such during both Cleveland administrations. He held the oftice of deputy sheriff of Cass County eight years, four years under Sheriff Widmayar and four years under Sheriff IF. E. Shweer. For thirteen years he served as alderman of the Third Ward of his native town. Fraternally. Mr. Haskell is a charter member of the M. W. A. and has been long connected with the I. O. O. F. He belongs to the Christian church. of which he is a trustee. After a long, industrious. honorable and useful life. Mr. Haskell is now living in retirement. respected by all who know him, and in the quiet enjoyment of the competence he has so worthily acquired.

HENDRICKER, Charles F., was born in South Beardstown. Ill. June 14. 1850. a son of Fredevick and Elizabeth (Kuhl) natives of Saxony. Germany. who came to Cass County about the year 1880 with Christian Kuhl, the grandfather. The parents married in Beardstown, and settled along the Illinois River where there were five ehildren born, and then moved to another farm in Cass County, where the mother died in 1867. Irederick and Elizabeth Hendricker had the following children: Conrad and George, both deceased; Christian, of Quincy, Ill.; Mary (Mrs. George Valentine), of Burlington, lowa; Charles T.; Klizabeth (Mrs. Andrew Councilman), of Chicago; and Caroline (Mrs. John Schuchman), of Wichita, Kan.

Charles EF. Hendricker remained with his parents up to the time of his marriage, having attended the public schools of Beardstown for some time, and was with his father at the time of the latter's death. He was united in marriage September 21, 1871, with Sophie Amelia Jockisch, born in township 17, range 11, a daughter of August and Susan Jockisch, be of Germany, she a native of Pennsylvania. The children of Mr. and Mis. Hendricker have been as follows: Frank, deceased; Amelia L. (Mrs. George Eads), of Mason County, Ill; Arthur, deceased; Sarah, who died in infancy; Mrs. Ida Henry, of Cass County; Elmer, of Pike County, Ill.: Bessie, of Carlinville, Ill.; Hattie (Mrs. Andrew; "Larsen), of Havana, Ill.; Julia, at home: Rudolph, of Cass County; Ida (Mrs. Felix Krohe) ; and Lydia.

Mr. Hendricker resided on the old home place after his marriage for about five years. then moved to Virginia, Ill, bought a farm and lived there six years. Then he sold out and moved to Sherman County, Kas., where he purchased 100 acres of land. Eight months afterwards he suld this and moved to St. Charles, Mo., and following this for some time went about Jooking for a satisfactory location on which to settle. and in 1890, bought an eighty acre farin, where he has since lived. To this he has added until it contains 270 acres. 10S acres in the home ylace being under cultivation, and sixtytwo acres in bottom land. He is a large raiser of melons.

Mr. Hendricker is a member of the Pentecost Nazarene church and is superintendent of the Sunday school. Ie votes with the Prohibition party.

HERRMANN, George F., who is the owner of 860 acres of fine land in township 18, range 9 n. in Cass County, Il.. and is considered among the foremost grain farmers of the township, is a native of Illinois. horn in Mason County, December 6, 1S5S8. Mr. Herrmann is of German extraction. his parents, Frederick and Catherine (Smith) Herrmann having been born in Germany. and both emigrated to the United States in early life and located at Beardstown, IIL, where they were subsequently married. Moving from there to Bath, Ill... Frederick Herrmann opened a shoemaking shop. which he conducted several years. then purchased a tract of prairie land east of Bath. and improved it. This he cultivated for ten years, and then sold and moyed west of Medora, Ill., where he bought 360 acres, on which he was engaged in farming for twenty years. At the end of that period he moved to Cass County, Ill., township 18, range 9 n., and bought 160 acres of improved land, to which he later added 240 acres, now owned by George F., with whom he resided during the later part of his life. Frederick Herrmann was born in 1824 and died in 1902; his wife died in January, 1889. The children of Frederick and Catherine Herrmann were as follows: Leonard, of Mason County, Ill.; Henry, deceased; Katherine (Mrs. Louis Roloff), of Havana, I1l., Josephine (Mrs. William Wirchner), deceased; and George I.

George F. Herrmann attended the public schools of Mason County, Ill, in his youth, and remained at home until his marriage on March 2, 1882. On that date he was wedded to Katherine Mohlentruck, who was born in Beardstown, Il]. After his marriage, George F. Herrmann farmed for two years in Mason County, then moved to his father's farm of 240 acres in Cass County, which was willed to him, and to which 120 acres has been added by purchase, the whole being in one body. About 250 acres of this is under cultivation, the remainder being in pasture and timber. The cultivated portion is devoted to grain raising.

In politics, George F. Herrmann is identified with the Republican party. His religious connection is with the Lutheran church of Chandlerville, in which he has officiated as a steward since 1904. In all respects, Mr. Herrmann is a first-class Iman and a most worthy citizen, and his wife a most estimable lady. Both are much respected, and have numerous friends.

HESS, John Henry, a prosperous farmer and stockraiser of section 15, township 18, range 12, is one of the substantial men of Cass County. He was born in Germany. July 17, 1869, a son of Henry and Catherine (Ickstein) Hess, natives of Germany. <A history of the Hess family is given elsewhere in this work.

John Henry Hess attended school in Germany. and from childhood worked on farms. When he was twelve years old he was brought to the United States by his aunt who accompanied him to Beardstown, where he joined his father who had previously located there, and he has remained in Cass County erer since. When the father married a second time, John Henry gave his step-mother obedience and care, and lived at home until his marriage. He now owns forty-six and three-fourth acres of land and rents eighty acres more, all of which he operates and with good results. He has always heen a Republican, but has never sought office. The German Lutheran is his church.

On November 3. 1904, Mr. Hess married Emma Elizabeth Schroeder, who was born February 10, 1885, and died April 7, 1914, a daughter of W. F. and Mary (Blum) Schroeder, natives of Germany and Cass County, respectively. Mr. and Mrs. Schroeder live at

HESS, Mrs. Mary, has proven in her successful work at farming and dairying that her sex is fully competent to conduct large interests and provide for those dependent upon them. Mrs. Hess was born in Germany, January 28, 1861, a daughter of Christian and Margarette (Gunder) Blum, farming people, who were born in Germany. When she was twenty-one yeal's old, Mrs. Hess came alone to Cass County from Germany, and on May 14, 1883, married Henry Hess, who was born in Germany, May 14, 1545, a son of Henry and Catherine (Bellhour) Hess. During Mr. Hess' lifetime they lived on a farm near Concord for eighteen months; then moved to one near the Stock school in Cass Couuty, but a year later went to Beardstown and bought a home, going then into the dairy business, but as Mr. Hess' health failed, they returned to farm life. The change did not prove beneficial, however, and he died, leaving his widow with seven children, the oldest being but ten years old. Many women would have been discouraged, for the long illness of Mr. Hess had reduced their finances, and when left a widow she had to commence at the bottom. She was brave and resourceful, however, and continued in the dairy business and engaged also in farming. As her children grew older, they gave her assistance, so that she made visible progress, and now owns a very valuable farm of 394 acres on which she still carries on farming and dairying. Ars. Hess also owns 160 acres in the Beardstown South Drainage District. The Lutheran church holds her membership. :

HIERONYMUS, Charles V., dealer in groceries, china and pianos, is one of the progressive business men of Beardstown. He has attained his present responsible position in his community through the exercise of native ability and astute business methods. He was born in Washington County, Ill., August 18, 1875, a son of Charles Cc. and Louisa (Neunlist) Hieronymus. The father was born in Germany and learned to be a miller in his native land. He came to the United States and prospered as a miller and school at Mt. Olive, I]l., but completed his course in the Beardstown graded schools. He learned the milling trade under his father and worked at it for several years, but then invested in a grocery stock, and has been a grocer for fourteen years. Later he added the handling of china and of pianos, to meet a demand which

In 1892, Mr. Hieronymus was married at Beardstown to Elizabeth C. Greve, born in Cass County, April 3, 1876, a daughter of Anton and Mary (Pauk) Greve, natives of Germany and of Cass County, respectively. Mr. Greve was in a cigar and tobacco business. Mr. and Mrs. Hieronymus have three children: Verna Maria, Arthur G., and Lucile Elizabeth. Mr. Hieronymus belongs to the Lutheran church. He is a Democrat but not active in politics, confining himself largely to his business affairs. His genial nature and pleasing manner have been important factors in his success, for those who know him appreciate his friendly personality and enjoy patronizing his store.

HILES, James Arthur. - A flourishing industry of Virginia, Ill, which has been developed through the energetic methods and tireless industry of its proprietor is the ice business conducted by James Arthur Hiles. A man of more than ordinary business ability he has been true to each engagement, and his standing in his comunity is that of a helpful and publicspirited citizen. Mr. Hiles was born at Virginia, Cass County, Ill., December 4, 1S7S. and is a son of Janes and Isabelle (Vaschell) Hiles, the latter of whom was horn at Virginia, Il. The father of Mr. Hiles came to Illinois from Camden, N. J. He settled on a farm in Cass County, where he engaged in agricultural pursuits until his removal in 1908, to Atlanta, Cowles. Counts: sISane He is a member of the order of Odd Fellows. To James Hiles and his wife were born the following children: Harry, who died in infancy ; Charles and Archie, who are deceased: Nellie It.. who died at the age of twenty-six years; James Arthur: Sarah Klizabeth; Franklin C.. and Magzie, who died at the age of seventeen years.

James Arthur Hiles received his education in the public schools, following which he took up the vocation of farming. After about six years he returned to Virginia and embarked in a livery business, but two years later disposed of that interest and went to Carney, Lincoln County, Okla., where he spent four years in farming, and subsequently went to Kansas and Was engaged for a time in farming at Burlington. Later he sold his western interests and returned to Virginia, where he has since prospered as the proprietor of an ice business. His ice houses are SOx100 feet in dimensions, and have a capacity of 1500 tons. Mr. Hiles is a member of the Odd Fellows and of the Modern Woodmen, and has held several offices of importance in his lodge. His religious connection is with the Presbyterian church.

On December 20, 1899, Mr. Hiles was married to Nellie G. Willett, a daughter of Taylor and Mary (Ratliff) Willett, and they have one son: James Leo, a student in the publie schools of Virginia.

HILL, Chancey, who has won the approval of his neighbors by his farming methods, is one of the leading agrviculturalists of Cass County and his fine farm of 144 acres is one of the best in this section. He resides on section 9, township 1s, range S. but was born about seven miles west of Chandlerville, this county, February 23, 1854. a son of Amasa and Mary Ann (Streeter) Hill, natives of Ohio. Amasa Hill came to Cass County in 1842. and after locating at Beardstown Legan making wagons for a man named Fisher, and after a year with him, Mr. Hill and his brother started a wagon shop of their own and continued in this business for some years. He then began farming and spent the balance ot his life as a Cass County agriculturalist.

as his mother met with the loss of both her parents when a child. It is known that the Streeter family was coming from Ohio to Illinois. in a covered wagon, and had neared Springtield, when Mr. Streeter died and was buried by some strangers. Mrs. Streeter died

Chancey Hill was married in Cass County January 1, S78. to Lucy I'. Schaeffer, a daughter of Ilenry and Sophia (Stone) Schaeffer, nutives of Sangamon County, Ill. where Mr. Schaeffer was a stockfeeder and farmer. He died in Fremont County. Towa, and she in Atchinsen County. Mo. There were eight children in the Schaeffer family: George, Charles, Sophronia, Sophia, Della, Myrtle, Channing and

County, hut in that year went to Lowa and continued to farm and feed cattle for twenty years, then returned to Cass County, and Jocated on the old farm. where he is engaged in the same line of farming and feeding cattie and hogs. Mr. Ilill is a quiet. unostentations man who is able to accomplish much without making any fuss about it. He is a Democrat in his political convictions, while the Cumberland Presbyterian church holds the religious membership of himself and wife.

HINES, Harrison. - Besides a long and active identification with industrial affairs at Beardstown. Cass County, and in addition to taking a leading part. for many years, in all that pertains to the fulfillment of civic and social duties imposed on him by the conununity, Harrison Hines is entitled to especial mention as one of the few honored survivors of the gallant host who served their country in the field from the beginning to the end of the Civil war. Few, indeed. of the names herein contained are entitled to more distinction.

Harrison Hines was born in Montgomery County. N. Y.. February 19, 1841, a son of Henry and Betsy (Howard) Hines, the father a native of Rhode Island, the mother of New York.

Henry Hines, a carpenter by trade, located in Aurora, Ill., in the spring of 1848, and worked as a carpenter until the time of his death, about ISs4. His wife passed away in 1878S. When he was but ten years old, Harrison Hines began to do farm work, attending the district schools of the neighborhood at intervals, and later, became a pupil in the Aurora Business College.

April 6, 1SG1, when he enlisted in Company K, Torty-fifth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and he remained with the army of the Tennessee until the end of the struggle. He participated in the battles of Fort Henry, Fort Donelson, Shiloh and the siege of Corinth, and was also in the siege of Vicksburg. He volunteered his services in running the blockade of Vicksburg on the steamer Anglo Saxon, which was successful. lor this brave feat he justly cherishes a letter of commendation from General Grant. in which he was granted a thirty days' furlough with transportation home and return. At Shiloh, Mr. Ilines received a gunshot wound in his left leg, and at Vicksburg his head and right arm were lacerated by a piece of shell. He took part in Sherman's march to the sea, and the last battle in which he was engaged was that of Bentonville. N. C. He marched in the grand review at Washington, D. C., and was honorably discharged from the service July 15, 1865. Returning to Illinois, he went to work as a carpenter, engaging with the C. B. & Q. Railroad Company, and within two weeks was made a foreman. In 1809 he was transferred to Burlington, Iowa, wnd after remaining there two years, was stationed at Ottumwa, Iowa, where he stayed until August, 1SS80, when he was transferred to Beardstown, IIL, where he has charge of a force of mechanics averaging 200 men.

On February 9, 1869, in Chicago, Mr. Hines was united in marriage with Nettie Thronson. a native of Norway, and a daughter of Andrew Throuson. They have had the following children: Russell, of Laramie. Wyo.; Myrtle M. and Edgar, both deceased; Nettie (Mrs. Victor Schinitt), of Beardstown: Augustus. of Los Angeles.) Cals Grace, (Mrs: Ba". Millen)ne of Laramie. Wyo.: Mabel, a teacher in the public schools: and Ralph M.. at home.

Politically, Mr. Hines has taken an _ independent course in late years. He has rendered efficient public service. having been president of the school board of Beardstown for twenty years. Tle is a member of the Congregational church, in which he has officiated as a deacon since 1889. Fraternally, Mr. Hines is affiliated With the Blue Lodge, A. F. & A. M.. at Beardstown, and the Commandery, at Rushville, and is also identified with Ark Lodge No. 16 I. O. O. I.. of Beardstown. His military service is perpetuated in memory by membership in McLean Post No. 97 G. A. R. He has had a busy, useful and highly honorable career, and in his advancing years, still commands the unqualified respect and esteem of all those who appreciate those sterling traits of character that have adorned his life.

HINNERS, Hon. Albert Edwin.Among the native sons of Cass County who have taken an important part in the affairs pertaining to the civic government of Virginia, one, whose contributions to the public welfare have been helpful and lasting, is Albert Edwin Hinners, who is now serving in his third term as mayor. He is also well known in the field of journalism, being the editor of the Virginia Enquirer, of which he has been the owner since January 1, 1911. Mr. Hinners was born June 22, 1873, on his father's farm, near Arenzville, Cass County, Ill. and is a son of Henry and Matilda (Benaught) Hinners.

Henry Hinners was born in Hanover. Germany, October 18, 1840, and as a young man learned the trade of machinist which he followed in his native land until reaching the age of twenty-six years. In 1866 he emigrated to the United States. and for a time was engaged in the milling business but subsequently turned his attention to farming. He continued to be successfully occupied as an agriculturist until 1905, in which year he moved from the farm to Virginia, and is now living in quiet retirement. Mrs. Hinners was born in Hesse Castle, Germany, April 17, 1839, and came to the United States with her parents when she was six years of age, the family settling in the locality known as the Sand Ridge, near Petersburg. Menard County, Ill. She has been twice married, her first husband, also named Henry Hinners, having been an uncle of her present husband.

Albert Edwin Hinners was graduated from the Arenzville High school in 1891 and from the Western Normal College in 1896, and passed his boyhood and youth on the home farm. He inherited some of his father's mechanical skill and showed a predilection for farm mechanics, but later went into the educational field and taught three terms each in the ungraded or country schools and in the graded schools. and following this was appointed principal of the Chandlerville High school. In 1898S he was elected county superintendent of schools of Cass County. on the Democratic ticket and served two terms. or eight years, and later acted for more than three years as deputy sheriff of Cass County. On January 1, 1911, he purchased an interest in the Virginia Enquirer, of which he became sole owner in November of the same year, and has continued to edit and publish this newspaper to the present time. It circulates throughout Cass and the surrounding counties, and under Mr. Hinners' capable management has become one of the leading Democratic organs of this part of the state. Always a stalwart Democrat, Mr. Hinners has been active in the ranks of his party. and has been, on several occasions. the candidate of the organization for public office. In 1905 he was first elected mayor of Virginia, serving one term, and in April, 1913. was again chosen for that office. His careful. businesslike and entirely efficient administration of the city's affairs won him a re-election in April, 1915. and he has -since continued to devote his best efforts to the material interests of the city of his adoption. Mayor Hinners is a member of the Presbyterian church. He is well known in fraternal circles, being past master of the A. F. & A. M.; past chancellor of the Knights of Pythias; past sachem of the Improved Order of Red Men; and a member of the Modern Woodmen of America, the Benevolent and DProtective Order of Elks, the Order of the Eastern Stay and therO, S60. Ee

Mayor Hinners was married at Chandlerville, Cass County. January 19, 1899. to Miss Emma Anna Friedrich. who was born at Chandlerville, November 12, 1875. Mrs. Hinners' father started in the boot and shoe business at Chandlerville in 1SGO and is now at the head of the oldest business firm of that city. To Mr. and Mrs. Hinuners there has been born one son, Carrol Friedrich, September 24, 1910.

HOFSTETTER, William Chris. - One of the prospering business enterprises of Virginia. I11., which controls an excellent trade in this village and the surrounding country is the Hofstetter- Carls Lumber Company, the president and manager of which, William Chris Hofstetter. is known as an energetic and enterprising business man and a citizen who has done much to develop the community's commercial and industrial interests. Myr. Hoffstetter was born on a farm in Cass County. Ill.. December 24, 1865, and is a son of Bartholomew and Fannie (Hardy) Hofstetter.

Was married to Miss Fannie Hardy, and they continued to make their residence on the family homestead during the remainder of their lives. William C. Hofstetter was reared amid rural surroundings and while assisting his father on the homestead during the summer months secured his education in the district schools during the winter terms. When he laid aside his school hooks. Mr. Hofstetter concentrated his energies upon tilling the soil until 1903. in that year coming to Virginia and becoming interested in business pursuits. Here he engaged in the lumber and grain business, and bought land adjoining the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad tracks. opposite the station, where he has erected large and substantial buildings for the storing and sale of lumber, paints and all kinds of builders' supplies and materials, and has also a large and well-equipped grain elevator. On March 1, 1912, the business was incorporated as the Tofstetter-Carls Lumber Company, with a capital of $10,000. his partners in this enterprise heing his former clerk. A. B. Carls, and Mrs. Mary Hofstetter. his wife. and they continne as the sole stockholders and directors. Mr. Hofstetter being president and manager and Mr. Carls secretary and treasurer. Recently the company has purchased the property and coal business formerly owned by C. F. Paul, this property being located across the street from the lumber plant. Mr. Hofstetter has stock in the Beardstown State Bank, and also in the Little Indian and the Literberry grain elevators. In his business transactions Mr. Hofstetter has always adhered to the strictest integrity, and his standing among his associates is correspondingly high.

In 1890 Mr. Hofstetter was married to Miss Mary Schmitt, the only daughter of Casper and Catherine (Mieries) Schmitt. They have one son, Neil Fred, now a student in the Virginia public schools. Mrs. Hofstetter was born May 4, 1867. Her parents were natives of Germany, the father being born in Bavaria and the mother in Hesse-Darmstadt. The father had learned the trade of cabinetmaking in his native land, and after locating at Beardstown, II1., engaged in the furniture business, which he followed until the time of his death, July 28, 1900, when he was eighty-three years of age. The mother passed away in February, 1898, aged seventy years. They were consistent members of the Catholic church, and both were laid to rest in the cemetery at Beardstown. Mr. and Mrs. Hofstetter live in their attractive residence on the south side, Virginia, Ill.

HORTON, Elwood Spencer. - The great railroads of the country employ some of the most reliable men to be found in the land, for upon their coolness. reliability and knowledge of their duties, depend the safety of thousands of human lives. and the preservation of much raluable property. One of these men of Cass County, Elwood Spencer Horton, is the chief dispatcher of the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad at Beardstown, and is one of his road's most highly valued men. Mr. Horton was born at Newark, N. J., in January, 1856, a son of Silas and Clara J. (Thompson) Horton, natives of Essex. N. Y.. and of Newark, N. J. The father was a contractor and builder, who. in the summer of 1859, moved to Galesburg, I11., and there continued to operate along his line until his death in 1891. The mother died in 1911.

Elwood Spencer Horton attended the public and high schools of Galesburg. and when fifteen years old began to be self-supporting. and when sixteen years old, began learning telegraphy at Rushville, Ill. He was there less than a year, when he was shifted to another point on the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad, this being the one with which he had cast his fortune. After a number of changes he went to the Iowa Division and for six months was night operator at Burlington in that state. He also lenrmed train dispatching and for a year was extra dispatcher at Creston, Iowa. In February, 1882. he was made dispatcher at Beardstown, Ill.. under Supt. W. C. Brown, where he remained until June 6, 1906, being promoted to be chief dispatcher of Beardstown Division.

In 1885 Mr. Horton was married at Fairfield, Jowa. to Althea S. Foote, born at that place, a daughter of Joel and Marguerette (Parks) Foote. of Pennsylvania. Mr. and Mrs. Horton have three children: Ralph, who is a resident of Beardstown; and Gladys L. and William

Bruce, both of whom are at home. Mr. Horton has served as alderman from the Third Ward of Beardstown, being elected on the Republican ticket. Fraternally he belongs to Lodge No. 207, Knights of Pythias, of Beardstown, and to Tent No. 2, K. O. T. M. A man of unusual ability, he has centered his efforts upon one line of endeavor and has risen deservedly high in his chosen calling.

_ HOSTMAN, John H., who is conducting the home farm belonging to his family, in Richmond Precinect, is one of the substantial men of Cass County. He was born in township 18, range 9, March 5d, 1874, a son of Charles H. and Cynthia (During) Hostman, natives of Germany who came to the United States in their youth. The mother accompanied her parents, Charles and Gretchen (Busch) During, who located in Cass County after being in Menard County for two years. Still later they went to Ford County, Ill., but finally returned to Cass County. The parents of John H. Hostman married in Cass County, but spent a few years in Menard County, prior to 1878, when they returned to Cass County, and bought a farm in Richmond Precinct, adding to it until it contained 480 acres. This has been improved and it is now a large stock farm devoted to raising horses, cattle and hogs. The death of the father occurred October 10, 1900, since which time the mother and several of her children remain on the homestead, John H., the second son, conducting it for his mother. The other children are: Fred, who is of Oregon Precinct; Anna, who is Mrs. Martin Rousch, of Richmond Precinct; Lottie, who lives with her mother; Gertrude, who lives with her brother Fred; Louise, who is of Chicago; and Edward, who is at home. John H. Hostman attended Pleasant Ridge district school. He has never married and has always lived at home. In politics he is a Democrat, but has never sought any public office. He belongs to the Lutheran church.

HOUCK, Harry L. - A number of Cass County farmers are proud of the fact that they are located on the old homestead of their family, and that the land now in their possession is the same that their parents wrested from the wilderness. One of the men who is now operating such a place, is Harry L. Houck, of township 15-10, Cass County. He was born on his present farm in June, 1874, a son of Jacob and Rosanna (Plaster) Houck. natives of Pennsylvania and Tennessee, respectively. The father came to Cass County about 1850, and worked by the month, saving thriftily until he was able to buy a farm on the Sangamon River bottom. His wife. who had been reared in Cass County, was anxious to make her permanent home there, and therefore, after nine years, he bought 800 acres which is the present homestead, and here his widow lives with her son and daughter, he having passed away November 12, 1907.

nell school. Since his father's demise, he has been conducting the farm, raising grain and hogs. In politics he is a Democrat, but has not aspired .to public office. Fraternally he is a member of Chandlerville Lodge, A. F. & A. M., and the Modern Woodmen of America of Bluff Springs. A sound, sensible man, he stands for progress in his community, and can be depended upon to uphold any measures he believes will work out for the general welfare of the county.

HUESCHEN, John. - Endeavor along agricultural lines if carried on carefully and industriously, results in an old age of ease and comfort. Jobn Hueschen, who is now living retired on his well cultivated farm in Cass County, is one of the best examples of the prosperous farmers of his section. He was born in Prussia, Germany, January 20, 1846, a son of Henry and Anna (Frazee) Hueschen. These parents came from Germany to Beardstown in 1852, where the father worked as an honest laborer.

Growing up in Beardstown, John Hueschen, in boyhood, attended a German private school, but as soon as old enough began working for farmers. When he was thirty years old he commenced renting land at Arenzville and in its vicinity, and carefully saving his money, seven years later he was able to buy 120 acres of land which comprises his present homestead. Only a portion was improved, but now sixty acres are ubder cultivation, the remainder being in pasturage with six acres of timberland. Until 19138, Mir. Hueschen operated his property himself, but then retired, his son-in-law. Alvin Rupple now cultivating it, My. Hueschen still living on the farm.

On March 9, 1876, near Meredosia, Ill., by tev. Theo. Buszin, pastor of the Lutheran church, Mr. Hueschen was united in marriage with Elizabeth Feidler, who was born July 24, 1856, in Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, where her parents died. Mir. and Mrs. Hueschen became the parents of the following children: Theodore, Anna and Edwin. who are deceased; Hulda, who resides with her father; Alvin, who is deceased; and Della, who was married August 27, 1913, by C. W. Diedrich, of Chandlerville, Tll., to Alvin Rupple, and they have one son, Clarence J. C. Mrs. Hueschen died May 29, 1906, and was buried in Walnut Grove cemetery. Politically Mr. Hueschen is a Democrat and served as a school director for a number of years. In religious faith he is a German Lutheran. Upright, honest and _ industrious, Mr. Hueschen has been one of the substantial men of Cass County for many years, and stands very well with his neighbors.

HUGHES, Benjamin B. - Many of the successful men of Cass County, Ill., and particularly those belonging to the farming class. entered upon their careers with no capital save ambition and determination, strong hearts and willing hands, and with these have advanced themselves from modest circumstances and obscurity to positions of prominence and financial independence. In this class is found Benjamin B. Hughes, the owner of a well-cultivated farm in this county, who has been the architect of his own fortune and has builded well. Mr. Hughes was born in Fleming County, Ky., June 30, 1868, and is a son of Thomas Simpson and Amanda (Hurst) Hughes.

The grandparents of Mr. Hughes were John Hughes, of Virginia, and Anthony and Nancy (Staggs) Hurst, natives of IXentucky. The grandparents were all members of early families of the South, and for the greater part the members of these families have been engaged in farming. Thomas Simpson Hughes, father of Benjainin B. Hughes, is still a resident of the Blue Grass state, where his wife passed away in 1892, at the age of fifty-seven years. They were the parents of the following children; Charlotte, who is Mrs. George Helvestine, of Kentucky ; Margaret, who died in childhood; Robert, a resident of Kentucky ; Eliza, who died as Mrs. George McIntosh; Malinda. who becaie Mrs. George Glass, and is now deceased; Mary, who is the wife of G. M. Shrout; Seth, who lives in Kentucky, and Benjamin B.

Benjamin B. Hughes secured his education in the public schools of his native neighborhood, and was reared a farmer. At the age of twenty years he drifted to Cass County, Ill, where he secured euiployment on the farm of Harry Stribling, and soon thereafter went to work for I. M. Stribling, near Virginia. Mv. Hughes was married March §, 1898, to Miss Emily Millner, born in Cass County,. 111, May 22, 1876, daughter of William B. and Lamira B. (Coleman) Millner, the former a native of Virginia and the latter of Metcalf County, Ky. Mr. and Mis. Hughes have been the parents of four children: Helen Liiva, Irma Hazel, Benjamin Richard and Frances Tlizabeth.

After marriage Mr. Hughes rented 400 acres of Jand from Mr. Stribling and continued to operate this land with some success until 1910, when he decided to try his fortunes in Carroll County. Mo., and accordingly purchased 160 acres of improved land and moved to that state. Tn the fall of the same year, however, he decided that Cass County offered better opportunities for success, and accordingly disposed of his Missouri interests and returned to Illinois. IIere he purchased 100 acres of improved land in township 17, range 10, and has continued to engage in general farming. In addition to his own land, he operates 253 acres for Mr. Quigg, carries on general farming, and raises large numbers of Duroc-Jersey hogs and a high grade of cattle. Mr. Hughes is known as one of the most progressive farmers of his part of the county and is well entitled to praise, for his success has been entirely of his own making.

Mr. and Mrs. Hughes are members of the Christian church. in which he has served as deacon since 1907. In politics a Republican; has served as school director and in other ways has rendered his community excellent services. Fraternally, he is connected with the Modern Woodmen of America, at Virginia, Ill.

HUGHES, David R., senior member of the reliable concrete construction firm of Hughes & McCarthy, of Beardstown, has won his enviable position among the leading men of Cass County through individual effort and natural ability. He was born at Lewistown, Ill., August 6, 1879, a son of David and Gertrude (Dennis) Hughes, and grandson of David Hughes. The grandfather was of German nativity, aud upon his arrival in the United States, located in New Jersey, where his son David was born. Later on in life, the grandfather came to Galesburg, Tll.. where he died, and his widow located at Lewistown, Ill. Here the younger David married, and he hecame a brick mason and contractor, still making his home at that place. He and his wife had the following children: Rollie, who is of Lewistown: David R.; Bethie, who is Mrs. Charles Mustard, of Lewistown; Horace; Clyde: Belle. who is Mrs. Dr. H. A. Levett. of Chicago: Julia, who is Mrs. Clarence Weirough of Lewistown, Ill.; and Don, who is also of Lewistown.

David R. Hughes learned the brick mason trade with his father and when twenty years old went to Astoria. Ill., where he became a brick manufacturer, forming a partnership with T. L. Martin. In 1902 the business was sold, and for a year Mr. Hughes worked again at his trade. In 1904. however, he came to Beardstown and established his present concrete construction business, and in 1907, took J. D. Mec- Carthy into partnership with him. Both partners are men of experience and their contracts are executed faithfully and promptly.

On December 24. 1905, Mr. Hughes was married to Sadie Thompson, who was born at Lincoln, Nebr., January 25, 1881, a daughter of George and Amanda (Louderback) Thompson, natives of Fulton County, Ill, and of Schuyler County, Ill. Mr. and Mrs. Hughes have one son, Ocie Clifford, who was born August 24, 1907. Mr. Hughes is better informed than a number of men. for he not only took the regular public and high school courses, but taught school for four vears, and takes pride in being abreast of the times. Since 1913 he has been a trustee of the Christian church, of which he is a consistent member, and he is also superintendent of the Sunday school. Fraternally he is a Mason and a Ixnight of Pythias.

HUNT, Daniel. - For nearly twenty-six years a locomotive engineer in the train service of the I. C. R. R. Company, and bearing the record of being one of the safest and most reliable envinecrs running on that road, is Daniel Hunt, of Beardstown, Cass County, Ill, who was born in St. Louis. Mo.. August 31, 1878. In a certain sense he inherits his adaptability to such a task, his father having heen an experienced and skillful man in this line of work, and the son having been reared to some extent in railroad surroundings. He is of Trish descent. His father, James Hunt. was a native of County Clare, Ireland. and his mother, Rosa (Curley) Hunt. came from the same county. The grand- parents were James and Mary Hunt and James and Mary (Burns) Curley. The last named emigrated in 1848 to the United States and located in New York, where she was married.

River. The parents of Daniel Hunt were married in East St. Louis, Ill., and James Hunt worked as an engineer on different railroads, being there so employed on the C., B. & Q. Railroad until 1888, when he was transferred to Beardstown, Ill. where he died in April, 1903. while still serving as engineer. His widow is still a resident of Beardstown, where she is much respected and has numerous friends. The children of James and Rosa (Curley) Hunt were: Daniel; William, of Canton, Ohio, a railroad man on the W. & L. L. Railroad; Charles and James, of Beardstown, machinists ; Ivank, who is a coppersmith, lives at Beardstown: Edna, who is a resident of Canton, Ohio; Marie, who lives at Schenectady, N. Y.; and Joseph and Nan, both at home.