Champaign County, Illinois - The whole text, 1918 (part 7 of 23)

Mr. Spoehrle was born in Germany, a son of Gottlieb and Katherine Spoehrle, natives of that country, where their entire lives were spent. Carl W. was given an ordinary educational training by honorable parents who were possessed of only moderate financial means, and in his youth showed himself ambitious to make something of himself. The opportunities in his native land, however, were not any too plentiful, and his future did not seem bright, so that when nineteen years of age he was glad to accept the invitation of his sister, Christina Magdalina, who had preceded him, to come to the United States. He accordingly took passage on a sailing vessel, and after a voyage of more than forty days arrived in America and immediately made his way to the home of his sister at Atlanta, Illinois. There he secured employment of an agricultural nature and, being intelligent and alert, soon picked up American customs and methods, as well as the language of this country. By 1873 he felt himself ready to enter upon a career of his own, and in that year came to Champaign County, which he found to consist of prairie land. For seven years he worked hard and faithfully, and with native economy saved his earnings, so that at the end of that time he was able to purchase his first tract of land, for which he paid $35 an- acre. This was in the vicinity of the home of his sister, Mrs. Christina Summit, who did much to cheer and encourage him, and but for whose advice the entire trend of his life might have been changed. When still little more than a youth, with the ambition and venturesome spirit of young manhood, he was about to allow himself to answer the call of the great West, lured there by stories of the wonderful fortunes to be won by young men of energy and ambition. His sister, with her maturer wisdom, however, entreated the young man to remain in Illinois, and her judgment prevailed. Mr. Spoehrle has never had cause to regret his decision of remaining in the Prairie State, where he has found position, a comfortable competence, the friendship of his neighbors, the respect of his fellow citizens and the love and affection of those near and dear to him.

From the time that he became a landholder Mr. Spoehrle's industry increased in volume, and his ambition was encouraged. There was not a tree on his farm when he bought it, nor was there drainage of any kind, although there were plenty of sloughs. Setting to work, he planted trees, drained off the sloughs and put in up-to-date drainage, subsequently made other improvements and erected substantial and commodious buildings and a large, comfortable residence. Through his industry and the straightforward manner he had of doing business it was not long before he came to be looked upon as one of the substantial men of his community, a desirable and reliable citizen who added strength and worth to the locality's agricultural prestige. He has retained a young heart, and is cheery, kind and hospitable, and his pleasant home, located two miles south of Ludlow, is the scene of numerous gatherings of his many friends. In politics Mr. Spoehrle is a Eepublican, but he has not been an office holder, although always a supporter of good men and measures and of public spirited movements. He was reared in the faith of the Lutheran Evangelical Church in Germany, but after coming to America became a Methodist, and now belongs to the Ludlow Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he is a liberal supporter. His farm consists of 140 acres, all under a high state of cultivation.

Mr. Spoehrle is unmarried, and his home is presided over by his niece, Miss Lydia Summit, a daughter of his sister Christina, who first persuaded him to come to this country and later to stay in Illinois. Mrs. Summit's other children are Scott, Sarah and Minnie, the last having been christened Wilhelmina, in honor of Mr. Spoehrle, whose middle name is Wilhelm. Lydia is not only housekeeper for her uncle; she is also counsellor and adviser to him, and manager of many of his affairs. Her presence in her uncle's household assures his visitors of the best cheer that could be offered by any household manager, and in Mr. Spoehrle's declining years she is a source of great comfort to him. Miss Summit is a devout member of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Ludlow, is active in good works and kind deeds, and is held in great esteem in the community by those who know her intelligent mind and large heart.

PATRICK MOLLOY. Among the honored names of Champaign County none stands higher in the records of honesty, thrift and community esteem than that of the late Patrick Molloy.

He was a native of Ireland. He came to America in early life and while living in Ohio met and married Catherine Gleason. She was born in Parish Gilbairn, four miles from Bursycane and ten miles from Nenagh, Ireland, a daughter of Patrick and Catherine Gleason. When she was fourteen years of age her parents came to America and settled in Butler County, Ohio, where she grew up and married.

After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Molloy came to Champaign County, when much of this district was raw and new, and located two and three-quarters miles northwest of Rantoul out on the open prairie. Much of the heavy development work had yet to be done and the country stretched around them for miles, affording an uninterrupted view clear to the Sangamon River, ten miles away. The future stretched equally before this energetic young Irish couple, rosy with bright promises. There they worked hard year in and year out, and in time had the satisfaction of ample possessions and sufficient for themselves and for their children.

Six children came into their home : Edward J., Daniel, Thomas, William, Mary and Alice Agnes. The children were educated in the Rantoul High School, while William finished a course in Quincy, Illinois.

William Molloy married Margaret Donovan, and their three children are Louise, Helen and William. Mary Molloy married Michael Walsh, now a retired farmer, and their children are Francis, Willie, Leo and Agnes, and one that died in infancy. Thomas married Jennie Cahagan of Bloomington, Illinois, and they live on the old home farm. Their one daughter is named Helena. The Molloy family experienced all the hardships of early life and the pleasures and incidents of increasing prosperity. Their home was noted for its kindness and hospitality and it is said that no person in need was ever turned away empty handed. The old people grew in the riches of esteem in their neighborhood and had many friends all over that section. Both were active members of St. Malachi's Catholic Church and their children were reared in the same faith.

Patrick Molloy died in 1905. After his death his widow removed to Rantoul and lived with her son Edward J. Edward J. and William A. Molloy are among the active business men of Rantoul and conduct a large real estate office.

JOHN C. DALLENBACH, M. D. Among the leaders in the medical profession at Champaign is a native son, Dr. John C. Dallenbach, who belongs to one of the old pioneer families of the county, which was founded by the grandfather, John Dallenbach, who came here when his son, John J. Dallenbach, was three years old. Few names in this section have been more continuously or justly held in esteem and the present representatives perpetuate the sterling characteristics of the older generations.

John C. Dallenbach was born at Champaign, Illinois, December ??, 1881. His parents are John J. and Anna (Mittendorf) Dallenbach, the former of whom was born in Ohio and the latter in Cook County, Illinois. When the grandfather, in 1857, came with his family to Champaign County he located on a farm in Champaign Township, but only for one year, moving then to Champaign and establishing the meat business, which continued a stable industry of the city, until his descendants sold it in 1917, under the old family name, the grandfather being succeeded by his two sons, John J. and William C. Dallenbach. Of his parents' three children, Doctor Dallenbach is the eldest, his next younger brother, Karl M., being an instructor in psychology in Cornell College, Ithaca, New York. The youngest of the family, Louis E. Dallenbach, owns and manages a large chicken farm near Champaign. In 1917 he responded to the call of duty and became a captain in the artillery department of the Officers Eeserve Corps and at present is in active service.

John C. Dallenbach secured a public school education at Champaign and was graduated from the high school in 1899, following which he entered the University of Illinois, taking the three year preparatory to the medical course and receiving his A. B. degree in 1906. He graduated from the medical department of the University of Pennsylvania at Philadelphia in 1906. During 1907 and 1908 he led a busy student life of practical experience as resident physician of the Methodist Episcopal Hospital, Philadelphia. From there he went to the Far West and for four years was in active medical practice at Seattle, Washington, at the end of that time returning to his native place and here has been in practice ever since.

On November, 17, 1907, Doctor Dallenbach was united in marriage with Miss Reba B. Bryan, who was born in New Jersey. In his political views Doctor Dallenbach is a Republican and at all times is interested in local issues as they influence sanitation and good government. Fraternally he is identified with the Masons and the Elks. A physician's role at all times calls for a high order of courage as well as high ideals of service to mankind, hence Doctor Dallenbach doubtless would disclaim any particular bravery should occasion demand his professional services in his office of first lieutenant of the Medical Reserve Corps of the United States army. Certain it is that no more skillful or competent physician could be secured. In the summer of 1917 he was in the Medical Officers Training Camp, Fort Benjamin Harrison, Indianapolis. At present he is surgeon of the Three Hundred and Thirty-second Field Artillery with rank of captain.

JAMES A. SOMERS is a native of Champaign County and for many years, with his good wife by his side, has labored industriously and with good results as a farmer in St. Joseph Township. He has built up a splendid home and at the same time has acquired the esteem and confidence of a large body of the citizenship of Champaign County.

He was born in Somer Township of this county October 10, 1866, a son of John L. and Mary J. (Kirby) Somers. His father was a native of North Carolina and his mother of Indiana. The parents were married at Farmer City, Illinois, and spent the rest of their days in Somer Township of Champaign County. They were the parents of eight children, five sons and three daughters, James A. being the fifth in age.

He was well educated in the common schools of his native township, and grew up to a life of independent effort, with industrious habits early inculcated. At the age of twenty-eight, on March 3, 1895, he married Miss Minnie I. Grierson, daughter of Robert and Sarah (McDaniels) Grierson. Mrs. Somers was next to the oldest in a family of nine children, and was educated in the district schools.

After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Somers, possessing little capital, though with abundance of energy and enthusiasm, rented a tract of land in Somer Township and were tenant farmers a period of thirteen years. In that time, in addition to providing for their family and home, they were each year laying something aside and planning effectively for the future, and they then invested their capital in eighty acres of land in section 28 of St. Joseph Township. This they made a permanent home and have greatly improved and beautified it since it came into their ownership.

Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Somers : Russell Ivan, Ross Donald and Florence Winifred. The only daughter died at the age of ten years. Mr. and Mrs. Somers appreciated the need of good education for their children and have encouraged them in every way to make the best of their talents. Both the boys attended the district schools in the country and afterwards attended high school at Urbana. Russell then entered the University of Illinois, where he specialized in the study of chemistry until his studies were interrupted by the call to duty for his country. He is now with Company K of the Three Hundred and Forty-ninth Infantry, stationed at Camp Dodge, Iowa. The younger son, Ross Donald, is still a student in the Urbana High School. Mrs. Somers is an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Politically he is a Republican. Mr. and Mrs. Somers are a splendid couple, who can look back upon a period of prosperity which their own efforts have earned, and they may take pardonable pride in the home they enjoy and the sturdy sons that are growing up 'to manhood's responsibilities.

EGBERT P. LITTLE is one of the old residents of Champaign County, having come here with his parents nearly fifty years ago. The business to which he successfully applied his efforts through many years was farming, but he is now living retired in the city of Champaign. Mr. Little prospered as a farmer and stock man, and his material circumstances have added to his own comfort and have also provided means and training for the careers of his children, in whom he takes special pride.

Mr. Little was born in La Salle County, Illinois, September 3, 1857, a son of John and Frances (Bassford) Little. His parents were New Englanders, his father a native of New Hampshire and his mother of Vermont. Both are now deceased. His father was for many years a farmer and 'was long identified with the agricultural interests of Champaign County. Of the nine children in the family four died in infancy. Addie A. is the wife of John Blair of Syracuse, New York; Leslie resides at Tolono in Champaign County. The next in age is Egbert P. ; Luella is the eighth in the family and Linnie is the wife of Charles DeForest, of St. Joseph, Illinois.

Egbert P. Little was eleven years of age when he came with his parents to Champaign County in 1868. He grew up on a farm at Tolono, and was educated in the local district schools. He lived at home until his marriage, and then bought land and applied himself with all the vigor and enthusiasm of youth to the task of making a home and succeeding at his chosen vocation. Mr. Little continued active on the farm until 1908, when he removed to Champaign and bought his present home at 905 South Wright Street.

On March 19, 1884, he married Matilda Merry, a native of Champaign County and a daughter of Franklin and Catherine (Norton) Merry. Her parents were both natives of New York State and were quite early settlers in Champaign County, where they located on a farm in 1855. Both spent the rest of their years in this county and her father was killed by the kick of a horse. Mrs. Little was the second in a family of three children. The oldest was Cyrena, now living in Nebraska, the widow of Frederick Brown. The youngest is Charles D. Merry, of Urbana.

Leroy Louis, after graduating from the University of Illinois, taught in a high school three years, went abroad, spending about a year in Servia, and is now an associate editor of the Outing Magazine in New York City. Ethel Esther is a graduate of the class of 1917 in the University of Illinois, while the youngest child, Elmer P., is in the first year of the University. Mr. Little is a Eepublican in politics and has been casting his vote in allegiance to that party for forty years. He and his family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

CHARLES M. WEBBER. Since 1914 the postoffice at Urbana has been in charge of Charles M. Webber, and in the time that has elapsed since that date the people of the county seat of Champaign County have had no reason to complain of the mail service. Mr. Webber was for many years a business man and in the activities of commercial life found much to broaden him and to give him sound, practical ideas and love of system which have assisted him greatly in keeping the machinery of the postoffice in smooth running order. Also, he had previously held official position, so that he was not unfamiliar with the exigencies of public life, and in addition he had always been appreciative of the responsibilities and obligations of the public servant. These things have combined to make him a most excellent official and to win him the friendship and confidence of the people.

Mr. Webber was born October 20, 1869, at Urbana, Champaign County, Illinois, and is a son of Robert A. and Mary E. (Waller) Webber. His father, also a native of the county seat, passed his entire life here and was widely known in business circles, his activities having invaded several lines of endeavor. His early experience was in mercantile fields, subsequently he became an abstracter, and during the latter years of his life he was secretary of the Citizens Building Association. His death occurred at Urbana February 5, 1905. Mr. Webber was an honorable man of business, in whom his associates had the greatest confidence, and a citizen who helped in various ways to make the community grow. Mrs. Webber, who survives him and still resides at Urbana, was born in Kentucky. Mr. and Mrs. Webber were the parents of nine children, as follows: George W., a resident of Urbana; Charles M., of this notice; Thomas B., a resident of Urbana; J. Clay, a business man at Rantoul, Illinois; David D., whose home is at Cleveland, Mississippi; James W., of Urbana; Miss Anna B., who resides with her mother; a son who died in infancy; and Elizabeth, also deceased.

Charles M. Webber attended the public schools of Urbana and was graduated from the high school with the class of 1887. Following this he had his first business experience in his father's abstract office, and when the elder man disposed of his interests in that business the son went to Rantoul, Illinois, where he joined his brother, J. Clay Webber, in the management of a retail drug business. Charles M. Webber remained in this line for only about fifteen months, however, and then sold his share in the business to his brother and returned to Urbana, where he was elected secretary of the Citizens Building Association, a thriving enterprise with which he continued to be connected in the same capacity until November, 1906, when he was elected to the office of county clerk. During the next four years he acceptably discharged the duties of that position, and when his term of office was completed opened an office at Urbana for the sale of real estate. This enterprise continued to occupy his time and attention until April, 1914, when he was appointed postmaster of Urbana by President Woodrow Wilson. Postmaster Webber has been earnest and energetic in his efforts to give Urbana and the surrounding country the best of mail service, and that his efforts have been successful is shown in the prompt and expeditious manner in which the mails are handled and the general satisfaction among the people here in this regard.

On July 20, 1893, Mr. Webber was married to Miss Lola C. Gulick, of Mahomet, Illinois, a native of Champaign County, and to this union there have been born ten- children, as follows: Eobert Alfred, who is a member of the junior class at the University of Illinois; Joseph T., John Savage, Charles M., Jr., Marion Everett, Thomas Eaymond, Dorothy L., Mary E., Martha C., and Byron W. In his political alliance Mr. Webber is a staunch and unswerving Democrat and has long been accounted one of his party's able workers in the county. He is fraternally affiliated with the Masons, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and the Court of Honor, and also holds membership in the Urbana Business Men's Association.

THOMAS R. HOPKINS. Modern business requires practical and thorough training in the same degree as the professions and sciences. In Champaign County there is no institution which affords a better curriculum and practical business education than the commercial college formerly known as Brown's Business College and now owned and administered by Mr. Thomas E. Hopkins, himself a thorough educator of long experience and a man who has trained hundreds of young men and women and given them a thorough preparation for entrance into business affairs.

Mr. Hopkins was born in Peoria County, Illinois, January 24, 1877, a son of Griffith G. and Anna (Collier) Hopkins. His father was of Welsh descent and a native of Ohio, and the mother was born in England. Griffith Hopkins came out to Peoria County, Illinois, many years ago and was first engaged in mining and subsequently in farming. He finally retired and died at Peoria. The children were six in number: Grace, who died in infancy; Jesse G., of Jerseyville, Illinois; Lucile E., wife of Frank C. Keach, of Los Angeles, California; Thomas E. ; Chauncey J., deceased; and Maurice E., of Chicago.

Thomas E. Hopkins had a public school education in Knox County, HHnois, and for two years was a student in the Independent Normal at Dixon. For another year he pursued his studies in Knox College at Galesburg, and then became associated with Brown's Business College at Peoria as an instructor with Mr. Brown. On leaving that institution he spent a year as a teacher in Trenton, New Jersey. Locating here in Jacksonville, Illinois, he was employed as principal in Brown's Business College, and then spent two years in St. Louis in the same capacity. In 1907 he came to Champaign, where he bought Brown's Business College. He has maintained the school on a higher plane of efficiency than ever before and has surrounded himself with competent and expert instructors in the various lines.

Mr. Hopkins was married October 29, 1908, to Miss Mary West, a native of Knox County, Illinois. Their three children are Thomas Eoscoe, Viola Helen and Anna Euth. Mr. Hopkins is a Democrat in politics. He is a Eoyal Arch Chapter Mason, and is a member of the Board of Stewards of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

CLAUDE B. WAEKER, A. B., A. M., D. D. S., was born at Morrison, the county seat of Whiteside County, Illinois, May 6, 1872, and is a son of Edward B. and Elizabeth C. (Bryant) Warner, the former a native of Saint Louis and the latter of Herculaneum, Missouri. Edward B. Warner was a well-to-do business man of Morrison, and also a prominent citizen in the public life of Whiteside County, being county treasurer for a period of sixteen years, and for a like period a member of the board of equalization. His death occurred in 1891, while Mrs. Warner survived until 1916. They were the parents of seven children, as follows: Luella, who is the wife of F. C. Hitchcock, of Walden, Colorado ; Arthur D., who is president of the Forest City Life Insurance Company at Rockford, Illinois ; Dr. A. Lincoln, who is engaged in medical practice at Chicago ; Bertha, who is the wife of Maj. R. M. Smith, U. S. A., of New York City; Dr. Eugene R., a practicing dentist of Denver, Colorado; Lena, who is the wife of Dr. James S. Mason, of Urbana; and Dr. Claude B.

Claude B. Warner was seventeen years of age when he graduated from the Morrison High School, and at that time, feeling that he would enter upon a professional career, as had several of his brothers, he started the study of law in an office in his home city. After one year thus spent he decided that the law was not his forte, and transferred his attention to the dental profession, in the office of his brother. Following this experience he entered the Northwestern Dental School, from which he was graduated with the class of 1894 and the degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery, and at that time formed a professional partnership with Dr. J. A. W. Davis, of Galesburg. While residing in that city, Dr. Warner decided to further his education, and accordingly worked his way through Lombard College, securing the degree of Bachelor of Arts and later that of Master of Arts. Afterward Dr. Warner went to Avon, Illinois, and was there engaged in practice until 1906, when he came to Urbana.

On his arrival in Urbana, Dr. Warner established his dental office at 129 South Elm Street, where in conjunction with his brother-in-law, Dr. Mason, he erected an office building especially adapted to his work.

Dr. Warner has been honored many times by his professional brethren. He has served as president of the First District Dental Society, which includes one-third of this state, as president of the McDonough- Fulton County Dental Society, and as president of the Champaign-Danville District- Dental Society. He has served as chairman of the Public Press Committee and Board of Censors of the Illinois State Dental Society. He is now serving as chairman of the Law committee and a member of the Executive council of the Illinois State Dental Society. He has served as chairman of the committee on Public Dental Education of the National Dental Society and is now chairman of the Law committee in that organization.

In his fraternal relations, Dr. Warner is a valued representative of the local lodges of the Masons, the Elks and the Eastern Star, and belongs also to the Phi Delta Theta fraternity and the Delta Sigma Delta dental fraternity, and to the University and Cosmopolitan clubs. On February 12, 1901, he was united in marriage with Miss Jessie Tonner, of Table Grove, Illinois.

OLOF OLSON on coming to America from his native land of Sweden had only three dollars in money, and was in debt for his transportation across the ocean. He has been a resident of Champaign County nearly twenty years, and it is truly remarkable what he has been able to accomplish in the way of accumulating property and in the rearing and founding of a splendid country home and a family of most industrious children. No small share of the credit for this distinctive success is due to his capable and energetic wife.

Mr. Olson was born in Sweden, a son of Olof and Ella Olson. He had a public school education in his native land. He was twenty-one years of age when he determined to take advantage of the opportunities of America, and alone crossed the ocean on the ship Arizona. After landing in New York City he went direct to Henry County, Illinois, and was soon paying his debts and familiarizing himself with American traditions and customs and in time reached that place where he felt justified in having a home of his own.

In 1891 he married Miss Selma Norberg. She is also a native of Sweden, a daughter of Pierre and Marie (Dolstron) Norberg. Mrs. Olson came to America at the age of nineteen.

After their marriage they located on a farm west of Galva in Henry County, Illinois. They began with practically no money but had that hard working energy and thrift which are characteristic of the Swedis'h people. In spite of increasing expenses in the maintenance of the household, there was a steady accumulation against a rainy day and for the future, and success was only a question of time with them.

In 1898 Mr. and Mrs. Olson came to Champaign County and for fifteen years farmed as renters in Compromise Township. All those years they lived steadily on one farm, and that fact alone is a fine testimonial to their efficiency and general worth. Out of their slowly growing accumulations they were then able to buy eighty acres in Harwood Township and subsequently 135 acres in Compromise Township. These tracts of land they sold to buy their present fine farm of 320 acres in Compromise Township, formerly the Dickerson home in section 19.

In the meantime there had come into their hearts and home nine children : Emily, Elof, Albert, Fred, Selma, Oscar, Ella, John and Eric. All of them learned their lessons in the district schools, while Selma was a student in the Gifford High School. They made good records for themselves as students and they all speak and read English and Swedish and have a slight familiarity with the German language. The daughter Emily is now the wife of Henry Ackerman, and they have a son, Herman Ackerman.

Mr. and Mrs. Olson are active members of the Lutheran Church. In 1909-10 Mr. Olson served on the board of supervisors, and is a man whose judgment as well as action are entitled to the respect of the community. Politically he supports the Democratic party. As a farmer he has been highly successful with live stock, and 'has a large number of cattle, hogs and horses on his place. During the past year Mr. Olson received his record price for corn, selling it at $1.78 a bushel. He is one of the most reliable farmers and citizens of Champaign County. While they take just pride in their farm and their home and live stock, they have a greater pride in the boys and girls who have grown up under their roof. The boys are manly fellows, true types of Americans, and are dependable workers in the management of the homestead. Mr. Olson owns his own threshing machine and sheller, and when confronted with a big job of work he has the boys to depend upon, each one able to take his place in handling machinery or the work of the farm. Mr. Olson in all his years of experience with his sons has never heard one of them say, "I don't want to do that." They have grown up with the realization that the interests of the family are all mutual, and this is no doubt one of the secrets of the success of the family. Another fact that should not be omitted is that in all these years Mr. Olson has had the co-operation and support of a good Christian wife, who has aided and counseled him for over a quarter of a century and has borne the chief responsibilities of educating and training her children. The Olson family have one of the most complete and attractive country homes in the entire county. Well back from the road is situated the house, surrounded by a splendid grove of trees and shrubs, and the whole constitutes a park, as though the master hand of a landscape artist had created it. The atmosphere of the farm and the home is also one compounded of industry and wholesome living, and all of this Mr. and Mrs. Olson have as their reward for many years of persevering labor, and labor has been the source of it all, since Mr. Olson has never once indulged in the speculative game and has taken only his just compensation for work honestly performed.

FHANCIS G. JAQUES. One of the early and most prominent members of the Champaign County bar was Francis G. Jacques, who began practice here prior to the war and continued his work with unabating interest until his death on November 14, 1896.

Mr. Jaques was born in New York City January 5, 1839, a son of Eobert Lee and Mary (Cooper) Jaques. Both parents were natives of New Jersey. Mr. Jaques was educated chiefly in New York City, studied law there, and also had a brief experience as a school teacher in Michigan. He came to Champaign at the age of eighteen, and was admitted to the bar before he attained his majority. His unusual talent, his thorough knowledge, and his well balanced character made him a successful figure in his profession and he was widely known arid esteemed all over eastern Illinois.

On September 11, 1860, Mr. Jaques married Eliza J. Park, a native of Ohio. Mrs. Jaques survived her husband twenty years, passing away September 6, 1916. She was the mother of four children: William Park, of Urbana ; Minnie, assistant cashier of the Urbana Banking Company ; Eobert Lee, of Lafayette, Indiana; and Fred S., deceased. The late Mr. Jaques was thoroughly independent in his political affiliations. He was a Knight Templar Mason.

SAMUEL MASON GREGG. The dignity of labor raises the farmer to a level of importance corresponding to that occupied by any class of producers. To labor long and faithfully, giving the best of one's ability and talent along any line of endeavor, is to fulfill the destiny of mankind and to make possible a happy, contented old age. Samuel Mason Gregg, one of the substantial farmers and highly esteemed citizens in the vicinity of Rantoul, has made his life one of constant industry and honorable labor, and though always busy he has never failed to find time to make friends or contribute to the welfare and advancement of his community.

Though a resident of Champaign County for many years, Mr. Gregg was born in Crab Orchard, a son of Samuel H. and Elizabeth (Singleton) Gregg. The parents were also natives of Kentucky, and during the childhood of Samuel M. Gregg removed to Illinois. Mr. Gregg had a common school education and was early trained to farming pursuits.

On April 11, 1878, he married Miss Emma Hitz, a native of DeKalb County, Illinois, and a daughter of Frank and Catherine (Shaffer) Hitz. Her father was born in Switzerland and her mother in Germany, and they came as unmarried young people to America. They were married in Rochester, New York, then moved to Kendall County, Illinois, from there to DeKalb County, and located permanently in Champaign County in 1864. Mrs. Gregg received her early educational advantages in the Maple Grove district school of this county.

After their marriage they started out as farmers, buying 160 acres in East Bend Township. One year later they moved to land owned by Mrs. Gregg's father, and then bought the 120 acres comprising their present homestead, located seven miles northwest of Rantoul. This land is in section 17. They took to their task as home makers the true spirit of the pioneers. The land they bought had no buildings, no trees to furnish shade, and there stretched before them a long period of years to be filled with the hardest kind of labor in order to make a home and provide for the increasing responsibilities of existence. Both were people of strong character and ample energy, and while their earlier years were characterized by strict economy they long since were able to provide a beautiful home and commodious buildings for all their purposes. Their home stands on an elevation with the land sloping gently away from all sides, and their house is now

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Mr. and Mrs. Gregg have one son, Samuel Elza. He was educated in the local district schools and in 1908 graduated with honors from the Rantoul High School. Subsequently he entered the University of Illinois and took the mechanical engineering course, graduating in June, 1912. He then remained at home with his parents a year, and married Miss Etta J. Pontious, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. A. V. Pontious. Mrs. Samuel E. Gregg was educated in the Rantoul High School and was also a student of a business college at Champaign, where she prepared for work as a stenographer. Whije it was the purpose and ambition of the son to follow mechanical engineering as a profession, his parents wisely persuaded him to locate near them, and he is now doing that most useful of all work, farming, and manages a 100 acre place a mile and a quarter southwest of the home of his parents. He is industrious and capable, and has the thorough technical education that makes him equal to all emergencies.

Mrs. Gregg and son are active members of the Christian Church at Rantoul. In politics he is a Democrat, and has served as school director. Mr. Gregg is one of the dairy farmers of Champaign County, and has a herd of twenty blooded Jerseys, beautiful and productive animals such as would constitute a fine asset to any farm. Mr. Gregg uses them for the production of cream, which is shipped to the Chicago market.

D. W. STEVICK. The people of Champaign County appreciate the ability and tbe achievements of D. W. Stevick, chiefly through the medium of his newspaper, The Champaign Daily News. Progress has always been the keynote of Mr. Stevicfs life. He has been inspired with "that delightful discontent which the hope of better things inspires," and this has given meaning and potency to his efforts as a newspaper man.

When he came into possession of The Champaign Daily News, he was well aware of the deplorable conditions existing relative to the strongly entrenched liquor forces, and had a thorough understanding of the stupendous task he was undertaking in combating them. He faced the issues squarely, and with an invincible spirit of confidence and hope undertook to lay bare tlie existing facts to the public, feeling they had a right to know.

As is always true in such matters, the bitterest opposition arose from the friends and supporters of the traffic. Ridicule, sarcasm and misrepresentation were all brought to bear upon the gallant young editor. Like a true soldier he met successfully every attempt of the enemy to discomfort him. With the heartiest support of the best class of the people in Champaign County, he demonstrated that when a people unitedly determined to stamp out existing evils they are bound to win. Mr. Stevick has raised the standard of civic righteousness and morality in the county of Champaign, and it can be said to the credit of the people that he has found an army of the best men and women in the county as loyal supporters. The state of Illinois can be congratulated in possessing such men as Mr. Stevick. Though a young man, Mr. Stevick has made an enviable record for himself. He has accomplished more in the brief years of his editorial experience than many men have accomplished in a lifetime. That he was successful is shown by the fact that he was but twenty-eight years of age when he acquired the ownership of The News, and was then one of the youngest publishers of a large newspaper in this country.

It has been said of our forefathers that in laying the foundation of this great republic they planted their bulwarks as they went - the church and the free school - and they builded better than they knew. Of Mr.

Stevick's accomplishment in a brief time, it can also be said that in this enterprise he has accomplished more than his most sanguine expectations led him to expect.

For this reason a brief history of his life will be interesting. He first saw the light of day February 7, 1887, in Hutchinson, Kansas, a son of William Henry and Jennie (Getter) Stevick. His parents were born in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, and soon after their marriage removed to Kansas, where the father engaged in the real estate business. They had four children, including three daughters. Farie Dell, the oldest of the daughters, is the wife of Prof. 0. R. Skinner of Bloomington, Illinois. She was a graduate of the Conservatory of Music of Cincinnati, Ohio, and is now instructor with her husband in the 0. R. Skinner School at Bloomington. The second daughter, Marie Ella, is teacher of art in the Skinner School at Bloomington. She is a very talented artist, and her work has received high praise by the discriminating art critics of Chicago and other art centers. The third daughter, Isabel, is vocal instructor in the Skinner School, and the wife of Harry K. Roush of Bloomington.

When thirteen years of age D. W. Stevick began making his own living. For two years he drove a delivery wagon and then found work as office boy and collector at the Daily Bulletin in Bloomington, Illinois. He was with that journal thirteen years, going to the top of the ladder of that newspaper. For years he was in full charge of the advertising, studying that phase of the business with such attention 'that he soon became an authority on the subject. The past and the present proves him to be a thoroughly ground newspaper man.

August 29, 1910, Mr. Stevick married Miss Helen M. Taylor, daughter of Wilson E. and Mary (Miller) Taylor. Her father is a native of Ohio and her mother of Indiana. They were the parents of three sons and one daughter: Roy, Gail, Joseph and Helen. The Taylor family for many years have lived in Texas. Mrs. Stevick went to Bloomington from Texas to attend the 0. R. Skinner School, where she graduated in music. Mr. and Mrs. Stevick have one daughter, Marajen, a bright young lady of five years. Mr. and Mrs. Stevick are active members of the Christian Church. Politically he favors the principles of the Republican party, but is broad in his views and gives his support to the man who serves the public best. Fraternally he is a Knight of Pythias.

As a newspaper manager his work is entitled to great credit and undoubtedly a great future is in store for him. He has established an atmosphere of co-operative sociability in The Champaign Daily News, so that all subscribers feel they belong to one large family working for the good of the general public. The visitor observing the perfect order and system of The Daily News plant, and understanding its growth and development and its influence as a molder of public opinion, is reminded of the words :

"0 what a glory doth this world put on For him who, with a fervent heart, goes forth Under the bright and glorious sky And looks on duties well performed, and days well spent."

On the first day of September, 1915, E. R. Mickelberry and D. W. Stevick purchased The Champaign Daily News from E. B. Chapin. It was at that time Champaign's largest and best newspaper, but the development that was to come for The News could only be seen in advance by Mr. Stevick. The fifteen minute telephone news service from Springfield was increased fifteen minutes, a new linotype machine, many fonts of new type and other equipment were added and the -old machinery of The News thoroughly overhauled. Still more news was given to the people, later news, better news, and the already large circulation increased remarkably. Soon another linotype was purchased and the thirty minute wire service was changed to a longer service. The new owners could see no reason why the people of Champaign-Urbana and vicinity were not entitled to just as good a newspaper as other Illinois towns had been favored with for years; therefore the full leased wire of the International News Service wa's taken on, giving to the people of Champaign-Urbana and vicinity for the first time in history the world's news on the day it happened. Previous to this time almost all of the foreign news read by the people of this district was set up in Chicago and shipped to Champaign by express. In December, 1915, Mr. Stevick purchased his partner's interest and became sole owner of The News.

The News needed more room and the beautiful business lot located at 134-36-38 West Church Street was purchased and plans completed for a five-story building with a modern newspaper plant on the ground floor and a hotel above. Business changes, however, compelled The News to be moved earlier than it was possible to construct its new home, and the large four-story Miller building was purchased and there completed one of the most modern newspaper plants in the entire West. Another lintoype machine and a mammoth 32-page Goss press outfit were installed. New type throughout gave the appearance of The News a very noticeable brightness. The News continued to flourish, in its new home. It was the constant aim of the publisher to improve the News, and on August 19, 1917, a new publication was added - The Champaign Sunday News. This Sunday newspaper was not a small country paper, but was builded on metropolitan ideas, having all the local news with the full leased wire report of the Associated Press, the best four-page colored comic section that American artists produced, features for women, continued stories, a page for the farmer and his family, a full-page sport page edited by one of the best sport writers in the country, puzzles and fairy stories for the children.

On May 4, 1917, Mr. Stevick was elected to membership in the Associated Press, quite an honor considering that it is a custom of this association to have but one member in a territory and that the Associated Press had had for many years a member in Champaign who used a small news report of that association. This member protested against the election to membership of Mr. Stevick, but the board of directors of the association overruled the objection. The Champaign Daily News then gave to the people of this vicinity for the first time the daily report of full leased wire service of the Associated Press. The News was also elected to membership in the American Newspaper Publishers' Association, one of the strongest associations in the world, and was also made a member of the Audit Bureau of Circulations, and is the only newspaper in this district that is a member of all three of these organizations. Two years after Mr. Stevick purchased The Champaign Daily News it had changed from a two-linotype and a 12-page press equipped newspaper to six linotypes, a 32-page Goss press, the full Associated Press telegraphic wire news report, a member of A. N. P. A., 156 employes, its circulation greatly increased, located in its own building and had grown to be Eastern Illinois' greatest newspaper.

CHARLES F. OEHMKE, assistant postmaster of Urbana, has been continuously identified with the postoffice in that city for the past eleven years. He was formerly a successful teacher. He is a native of Champaign County, where he was born January 22, 1880. His parents were

John Fred and Elizabeth (Schultz) Oehmke, both natives of Germany. John F. Oehmke came to America at the age of seventeen and at once located in Champaign County. He had experience as a farmer, also in the marble works, and subsequently bought a farm, which he cultivated until his death in 1910. His widow is still living in Gifford, Champaign County. John F. Oehmke was honored with several township offices, and was a man of capable work and citizenship in this county. He and his wife had fourteen children: William, of Larchwood, Iowa; Louis Frank, deceased ; Fred, of North Dakota ; Louisa, deceased ; Charles F. ; Edward, of Larchwood, Iowa; John, a farmer of Fennel d, Illinois; Henry, of Oklahoma City; Eose, wife of J. T. Michaels, of Oklahoma City; Emma, deceased; Martin, of East St. Louis, Illinois; Walter, of Detroit, Michigan ; Minnie, still at home ; and Frank, of Pomeroy, Iowa.

Mr. Charles F. Oehmke was educated in the common schools and had six months of high school training. He had also nine weeks of summer terms in the University of Illinois. At the age of seventeen he became a regular hand on the farm, and after three years in that occupation took up school teaching. He taught six years altogether, most of the time in the country schools, but during the last year in the Philo grammar school.

On July 13, 1906, Mr. Oehmke passed the civil service examination and since then has been connected with the Urbana postoffice, at first as clerk but now as assistant postmaster.

He married November 15, 1908, Miss Bertha J. Eyestone, a native of Champaign. They have two children : Irene and Charles McDonald. Mr. Oehmke is a Democrat in politics, a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and the Methodist Episcopal Church.

CHARLES H. WATTS. Educational work is very exacting in the demands which it makes upon its devotees. Ostensibly the duty of the instructor is to instill in each of his pupils a proper and practical working knowledge; but equally important is his correlative, though less direct, function of instilling character and worthy precepts through his unavoidable personal influence. The first duty calls for an individual of knowledge and specialized training; the second for a capable and conscientious person whose manner of life and mode of living provide a fit criterion for the younger generation. When a man combines the possession of these attributes with the exclusion of strongly detrimental characteristics, the early years of future citizens may be safely entrusted to his care. Such a man is Charles H. Watts, county superintendent of schools of Champaign County and the incumbent of this office for fifteen years. His entire career has been devoted to the instruction of the young and he has gained a reputation as an educator which extends far beyond the limits of his immediate home community.

Mr. Watts was born November 16, 1867, in Coles County, Illinois, and is a son of Sinclair and Martha (Holiday) Watts, the former a native of Kentucky and the latter of Indiana. The parents of Mr. Watts came to Illinois about the year 1860, and when the Civil War came on the father enlisted as a private in the Seventy-third Eegiment, Illinois Volunteer Infantry, with which he served for a period of one year. The rigors of army life were too great for him, and after an illness he was invalided home and honorably discharged because of disability. When he had recovered Mr. Watts, who had made a good record for bravery and faithful discharge of duty, resumed farming operations, in which he had been engaged up to the time of his enlistment. He was an industrious agriculturist, who prosecuted his operations energetically and directed them ably, and as a result won success in his fanning activities. In 1895 he retired from active pursuits and took up his residence at Champaign, where he now makes his home, Mrs. Watts' having passed away in that city October 31, 1914. They were the parents of four children, namely: Charles H.; William, who is a resident of Ypsilanti, Michigan; Sadie, who is the wife of Clay Gaunier, of Alvin, Illinois; and Mrs. Ovanda Martin, a widow, living at Longview.

Charles H. Watts attended the public schools of Champaign County, Illinois, and divided his time in his youth between his studies and the work of the homestead property of his father. As he grew to young manhood he evidenced a studious nature, and when he was eighteen years of age was sent to Danville, Indiana, where he attended the Danville College, a private institution, for one year. At that time he entered upon his career as an educator, and for three years taught in the public schools, but, realizing the need of further knowledge of an advanced character, he resumed his own studies, this time in a private school at Ada, Ohio, where he remained for three years. Once more he took up teaching, and with his advanced knowledge progressed rapidly in his calling, so that he was soon known as one of the best educators in the county. This reputation naturally brought his name to the forefront, and when the election for county superintendent of schools of Champaign County came on in 1902 he was chosen for the office, which he has filled to the present time, having been chosen through consecutive elections. Mr. Watts has met with very agreeable success in his chosen line of work. From the start he has been exceptionally well fitted for .the duties and responsibilities involved, and he has invariably given his best efforts toward the progress and advancement of Champaign County's schools. He has manifested a personal interest where some others might have shown only a business obligation, and has established in the hearts of his former and present students and co-workers a warm tenderness and respect.

Mr. Watts was married July 21, 1896, to Miss Blanche Irwin, a native of Champaign County, and a daughter of James W. and Margaret (Fisher) Irwin, the latter deceased, and the former now a resident of Longview, Illinois. Mr. and Mrs. Watts are the parents of two children: Helen, who was born April 30, 1897; and Harold H., born May 18, 1906. Mr. Watts is a Republican in his political tendencies. He affiliates fraternally with the Masons and Knights of Pythias, is also a member of the Sons of Veterans, and, with his family, belongs to the Presbyterian Church.

FREMONT McMiLLEN. After spending his early youth in Champaign County, Fremont McMillen made choice of the various vocations and professions and determined to become a farmer, a business in which he had been thoroughly trained as a youth. He has never had any substantial reasons to regret that early choice, since his years of labor have brought him profitable rewards, the esteem of a large community, and ample means for his family and those dependent upon him. Mr. McMillen has one of the fine farms in Champaign Township on Rural Route No. 3 out of Champaign.

Though a resident of Champaign County most of his life, he was born near Logansport, Indiana, June 15, 1856, a son of William and Rosanna (Henderson) McMillen. His parents were both born in Ohio. In 1859 they came to Champaign County and acquired . a farm in section 4 of Champaign Township. Here the parents lived out the rest of their useful and honored lives, and both of them passed away in this county. There were nine children, the first, a daughter, dying in infancy; Franklin and Lucinda are also deceased; Susan lives at Logansport, Indiana, the widow of F. Gotchell; Newton, Isabella and Lucretia are all deceased; Joseph lives in Grand Junction, Colorado, and the ninth and youngest is Fremont.

Mr. Fremont McMillen, after arriving at the age of twenty and after completing his education in the local schools, rented the home farm of 110 acres and continued its active 'management under his control until 1905. In that year he bought another place of 161 acres in the same section, and now has both farms tinder his ownership and management, including 271 acres. It is all in seclion 4 of Champaign Township. His efforts have been expended most profitably as a general farmer and in the dairy industry. In 1909 Mr. McMillen erected one of the fine country homes of Champaign County, a two-story residence with every modern facility and equipment.

In June, 1888, he married Miss Laura Curtis. They have three children: Ethel, now deceased; Bessie, wife of William Ehler of Rockwell, Iowa; and Nellie, wife of John Schwengel, who occupies the old McMillen farm. Mr. and Mrs. McMillen are active members of the Presbyterian Church. He is a Republican. Mrs. McMillen has been prominent in the Woman's Club at Champaign, was registrar of the club and for four years was treasurer of its music and drama department.

Mrs. McMillen is a daughter of George F. and Elizabeth (Barnum) Curtis, her father having been a pioneer in Champaign County. Her mother died December 24, 1914. Mrs. McMillen was the oldest in a family of six children, two of them dying in infancy. Her brother Elmer lives in Champaign Township; her sister Elizabeth is the wife of Professor J. Sammes of the University of Wisconsin faculty; and her brother John W. is a farmer in Champaign Township.

SAMUEL L. BURWASH. It was more than half a century ago, when he was a small boy, that Samuel L. Burwash first knew Champaign County. He was identified during his active career with the agricultural element. It is in agriculture that Champaign County has found its greatest prosperity during this period. Mr. Burwash was not an unimportant factor in that development. He prospered as did all the other progressive farmers of his time, and in recent years has enjoyed the fruits of his earlier toil and is now living comfortably in Champaign.

He was born in Eastern Canada, near Montreal, November 16, 1851, a son of Samuel and Lois (Barber) Burwash, who were also natives of Canada. His father was a farmer by occupation. In 1860 the family removed to Edgar County, Illinois, and during the three years spent there the mother died. From Edgar County Samuel Burwash moved to Champaign County, and continued here an active farmer until his death. He and his wife had eight children, the first two of whom died in infancy. Besides Samuel L., the others are: T. N., a retired physician at Champaign ; Delia M., deceased ; Milo B. and Carrie, both unmarried and living together in Champaign; and Ella, deceased.

Until he was twenty-two years of age Samuel L. Burwash lived in his father's home. An education suitable for his future needs was acquired in the local schools. In the meantime he had become a practical farmer by training and experience, and on leaving home he and his brother Milo rented land and were partnership farmers. In the meantime they worked the old homestead. This was their plan of business operations for a number of years. Still in partnership, they bought a hundred sixty acres and made a specialty of raising grain for the market. Their partnership continued with mutual profit and advantage for a number of years, after which Mr. Samuel Burwash went for himself and farmed in Champaign

County for a quarter of a century. In 1910 he was able to retire with a financial competence, and removed to Champaign. In 1914 he built a handsome brick residence at 714 West Green Street in Champaign, and has occupied that modern home since November of that year. Mr. Burwash has been a Eepublican since casting his first vote, and he and his wife are active members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Mr. Burwash was married November 15, 1885, to Miss Margaret Mc- Cullough, a native of Champaign County and member of an old and prominent family of this section. Her parents, Alexander W. and Elizabeth H. (Seylar) McCullough, were both born in Pennsylvania. Her father came to Champaign County in 1854, locating on a farm south of Urbana, and lived there until his death in January, 1899. Mrs. Burwash's widowed mother died July 19, 1909. In their family were nine children: James S. and Sarah J., deceased; Adeline C., wife of W. N. Ramey, of Missouri; Annie Elizabeth, widow of John Bond, of Tolono; Frank F., living in California; Mrs. Margaret Burwash; Albert C., of Urbana Township; Benjamin T., deceased; John, a resident of Urbana Township. Mr. and Mrs. Burwash have no children.

AUGUSTUS M. EVANS. In the administration of the affairs of county government the duties of few offices are more important than are those of the sheriff. To occupy this position acceptably the incumbent must be a man of unquestioned courage, for even in the most law-abiding communities he is frequently called upon to face situations demanding quick, decisive and fearless action ; he must possess no inconsiderate amount of detective ability, to be used in the solving of perplexing cases, and he must, withal, be a man of executive ability and force of character in order to inspire respect in his community. Champaign County is fortunate in the possession of a capable sheriff who measures up to the standard set above. Augustus M. Evans has held the shrievalty since 1914, and prior to that time had gained much experience in the office of deputy. He is a former newspaper man and well known to the people of the county who have watched 'his good official work with satisfaction.

Augustus M. Evans was born in Brown County, Ohio, May 22, 1867, and is a son of George M. and Elizabeth A. (Park) Evans, both of whom were born in the Buckeye State. The family came to Champaign County about the year 1868, settling first at Tolono, where George M. Evans followed the trade of carpenter. In 1882 he removed with his family to Champaign, and in that city continued to follow his chosen vocation up to the time of his death. Mrs. Evans also passed away in that city. There were three children in the family, namely : Charles G.; who is now deceased ; William A. ; and Augustus M.

Augustus M. Evans was an infant when brought to Illinois by his parents, and the greater part of his schooling was secured in the public schools of Tolono. His real education came, however, after he had located at Champaign. There, in 1882, when he was fifteen years of age, he joined the force of the Champaign Gazette, and during the next twentynine years worked his way through various positions, seeing all sides of newspaper life and making a large acquaintance throughout the country. His experience in this connection brought him into contact with all kinds and manner of people and secured for him a wealth of information that has proved of the greatest value to him in his official work. Mr. Evans' connection with the Gazette office was severed in 1911, when he was appointed deputy sheriff. He remained in that capacity until 1914, when he became the candidate for the office of sheriff on the Republican ticket, and was successful at the polls, receiving a handsome majority. He has discharged the duties of his office well, and during his administration Champaign County has been singularly free from the presence of criminals and evil-doers.

On November 12, 1890, Sheriff Evans was united in marriage with Miss Kate Sharp, who was born in Champaign County, and to this union there has been born one son : Harry S., who is serving in the capacity of deputy sheriff. Sheriff Evans is a stanch Republican and has for a long period been an active worker in the ranks of his party. He believes in the benefit and enjoyment to be derived from membership in fraternal orders, and is at this time affiliated with the local lodges of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Modern Woodmen of America, in all of which he has numerous friends.

J. E. FULLER. The Fuller home is a mile and three-quarters southeast of Ludlow, in section 8 of Harwood Township. It is a home of comforts and superior improvements, and is the domicile of people whose character and activities tend to raise the general standard of community life in Champaign County.

Mr. Fuller was born in Michigan, son of Dexter and Elizabeth Ann (Curtis) Fuller. His parents were born in Massachusetts, moved from there to Ohio and finally to Michigan. J. K. Fuller was educated in Michigan schools, completing his training in a seminary at Spring Arbor in that state, where he graduated in 1884. Following that for a number of years he was a successful teacher both in Michigan and also in Champaign County.

Mr. Fuller married Miss Jennie Pearson. She was born in Mason County, Illinois, a daughter of Eobert and Mary (Fletcher) Pearson, both of whom are natives of England, but came to this country when still single. Mrs. Fuller was the second in a family of five children. She attended the district schools, the college at Paxton, Illinois, and was married at the age of twenty-four.

After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Fuller located at their present home place, and that has been their continuous residence ever since. Here they have 160 acres and the passing years have witnessed many improvements in their surroundings and have also endeared the home to them by many happy associations.

To their marriage were born five children. One died in infancy and the others are named Nanny, Robitine, Horace and Fred. To fit these children for the responsible duties of life Mr. and Mrs. Fuller sent them to the local district school, where all of them finished the eighth grade. The daughter Nanny became a student in' the Northwestern University at Evanston, Illinois, where she took the liberal arts course, specializing in English. The girls have also had piano instruction, and music is one of the features of the Fuller home. The daughter Robitine attended the high school at Paxton, where she graduated in 1915. She is now the capable helper to her mother in the home. Nanny taught her first school in Harwood Center during 1911-12, had the Martin school for two years, and then one year in the old home school district, the Gallagher school. Miss Nanny has been superintendent of the Methodist Episcopal Sunday school at Ludlow. The son Fred is active in the work of the home farm. The other son, Horace, now lives in North Dakota, near Arthur. He married Sarah Van Schoyck of Ludlow. Mr. and Mrs. Fuller have always endeavored to carry out the principles of her father who taught his children strict loyalty to the flag and country which gave them protection. In church affairs the Fuller family are active in the Methodist Episcopal

Church at Ludlow and are liberal supporters of that organization. Mrs. Fuller and her daughter Eobitine are both teachers in the Sunday school. In politics Mr. Fuller is a Democrat, and all of them have rendered support to the prohibition movement, Mrs. Fuller being active in the local W. C. T. U. Fraternally they are members of the Court of Honor, and Mr. Fuller and his sons belong to the Modern Woodmen of America.

Mrs. Fuller is not only a most capable home maker but has proved her executive ability as a farm manager. For a number of summers Mr. Fuller has lived in North Dakota, looking after his farm there, and during his absence Mrs. Fuller has assumed the active management of the home farm, being assisted by her son and daughters. The Fuller farm at Ludlow is appropriately called Maple Hurst. Recently the farm residence was remodeled into a modern home, and Mrs. Fuller superintended every detail of. this work. They now have one of the most complete country homes of Harwood Township.

GEORGE C. FAIHCLO. Champaign County is rapidly becoming noted for the excellence of its roads, and at the present rate of progress will before long rank with the leading counties in the state in this direction. A number of years ago the people came to a realization of the fact that progress and prosperity, both in the country districts and in the cities and towns, depended largely upon the condition of the roads, but it has been only in comparatively recent years that steps have been taken to improve in the fullest degree the highways of this section. In this work one who has been and is very active is George C. Fairclo, who since December, 1913, has occupied the office of county superintendent of highways of Champaign County. A man of comprehensive training and broad experience, he has brought to his labors an energy and enthusiasm that have aided greatly in the accomplishment of big things, and some of his vim and spirit has been caught by the citizens, a number of whom have been awakened to existing conditions.

Mr. Fairclo is a product of the agricultural country of Illinois, having been born on a farm near Kingston in De Kalb County, May 13, 1877, his parents being Isaiah D. and Sarah E. (Parker) Fairclo. His father, a native of New Jersey, was a lad when he came from that State to Illinois, about 1850, and at that time located on a farm in De Kalb County. There he developed into a first-class agriculturist and developed a good property, accumulating at the same time a competence that allowed him to retire from active pursuits in 1896 and remove to Champaign, where his death occurred six years later. He was a Republican in politics, but did not take any active part in public matters, and he and his wife were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mrs. Fairclo, who survives her husband, makes her home at Champaign. There were two children in the family: Elizabeth Temperance, who is the wife of Shields A. Elaine of Champaign; and George C.

George C. Fairclo attended the graded schools of Sycamore, Illinois, and in June, 1905, graduated from the high school there. He grew up" on the home farm, but it was not his intention to take up an agricultural career, as his inclinations ran in another direction, one which necessitated the securing of an advanced education. Shortly after he left high school he enrolled as a student of civil engineering at the University of Illinois, and graduated with his degree in 1902, but during this time, in order to pay his expenses, he worked three years in the service of the Illinois Central Railroad and for the Chicago-Wilmington-Vermilion Coal Company, in the capacity of engineer. After graduating from the university he worked for the Union Pacific Railroad from June, 1902, until September,

1903, at which latter date he was appointed city engineer of Urbana. He retained that office until May, 1905, when he became city engineer of Champaign, and remained as such until May, 1909. Mr. Fairclo then opened an office and engaged in private practice as a consulting engineer at Champaign, but in December, 1913, he was once again called into public service when elected county superintendent of highways for Champaign County. In discharging the duties of his position Mr. Fairclo has been conscientious and energetic. He has brought his wide experience to bear upon the problems facing his department in the improvement of highway conditions, and his achievements have undoubtedly proven an important factor in advancing the interests of the agricultural country, while at the same time contributing materially to the comfort and enjoyment of the motoring class, which has grown so greatly in numbers during recent years. Mr. Fairclo in his political affiliation is a Eepublican. He fraternizes with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and his religious connection is with the Presbyterian Church. His offices are located in the courthouse at Urbana.

Mr. Fairclo was married December 7, 1907, at Champaign, Illinois, to Miss Mabel Lindsay, who was born at Onarga, this state. They have no children.

REV. ERNEST MOEHL. The wealth of Champaign County does not consist alone in broad lands and money and other material things, but in its people of sterling worth and integrity of character. Among those who have devoted themselves to the molding of character and the improvement of spiritual conditions is Rev. Ernest Moehl, pastor of the German Evangelical Church of Flatville.

Rev. Mr. Moehl was born in Hersfeld, near Cassel, Germany, a son of John and Dorothy (Auding) Moehl. His father was a teacher in the old country. The family consisted of ten children, seven sons and three daughters, Ernest being the oldest son.

He received his education in German schools, including collegiate training, and graduated in the spring of 1881. In the fall of that year he came to the United States, for the purpose of fitting himself for ministerial labors in America. He pursued his course in Wartburg Seminary at Mendota, Illinois, from 1881 to 1884, and in the latter year went to Nebraska, where he was ordained in the German Evangelical Church. His first charge was at Waterloo, Iowa, where he remained more than ten years.

While there he went to Mendota, Illinois, and married Miss Charlotte Fritschel. She was born in Iowa, a daughter of Sigmund and Margaret (Brottengeier) Fritschel, both natives of Germany. Mrs. Moehl was reared and educated in Mendota, Illinois, and they were married in the German church there. After their marriage they went to Iowa, and four children were born to them : Hedwig, Emma, Hilda and Erna. The two younger daughters are now attending the grade schools at Flatville. Hedwig and Emma received their education at Dubuque and Ottumwa, Iowa. Emma graduated from a seminary at Waverly, Iowa, and fitted herself for work as a teacher, which she has followed very successfully for a number of years. She is now teaching in the German school at Flatville, being instructor in German and English. She is a young lady of many accomplishments and assists her father as organist in the church. Hedwig is devoting her time to the home interests.

In October, 1895, Rev. Mr. Moehl removed from Iowa to Champaign County, entering a new field of work as pastor of the German Evangelical Church at Flatville. For twenty-one years he has gone in and out among these good people as a preacher and an instructor on the important things of life, preparing them for a truer and better citizenship not only in this life but in that which is to come.

His congregation has grown and prospered and with prosperity there came a recognition of the need for a larger and better edifice in which to worship. Mr. Moehl laid this cause before his people, a committee was appointed, plans were carefully studied, and with the enthusiastic co-operation of his parishioners the work was begun and has resulted in a beautiful and imposing Gothic church building, which is one of the finest in Champaign County. It is built of Hytex brick and sandstone, cost $50,000 and was dedicated January 26, 1915. The broad steps in front lead to the main entrance, arid the auditorium is reached through three glass folding doors. Over these doors on the stained glass is the inscription in German, "Beware your feet, if you come to the House of the Lord and come that you may hear." The auditorium is a wonderful work of art, containing many stained glass windows with life size pictures of biblical scenes and characters. One of the figures is Luther, another is Paul, and on a large south window is Christ represented in the home of Mary and Martha. There) are mural paintings representing the shepherds at Bethlehem, Christ blessing the children, Christ walking on the water, while back of the altar are six paintings representing Easter scenes and the Apostles Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. The pulpit is in the Gothic style to correspond with the architectural harmony of the building, and there is a fine pipe organ. A complete individual plant supplies electric light.

The first church of this congregation was erected in 1874 and stood until 1887. The second church was used from 1887 until 1914, and then a temporary structure during 1914-15 until the completion of the new building. Below the cornerstone of the present church is the cornerstone of the old one, containing the inscription of date of erections. The church has a membership of 135 families. It is the center of a lively picture on Sundays when automobiles bring the worshipers from near and far. There is a large Sunday school of interested children.

Rev. Mr. Moehl has conducted a German school during the years he has spent at Flatville for the benefit of the children of the church. There the Bible is taught daily, in addition to literary studies.

Rev. Mr. Moehl is a man of broad and liberal views and in politics is a Republican. He is a fine type of the American citizen and has always been proud of his American home and has made his work a factor in the building up of loyalty to country as well as in the education of his people for the other conditions of life here and later. Rev. Mr. Moehl's experiences since coming to America have been both pleasant and congenial, and here he has found his work and has never had cause to regret the influences that led him away from the land of his birth.

HARRY C. KARIHER, M. D. Perhaps no call is so insistent in man as that of personal service to others. It is one of the beautiful elements of humanity; it lies at the root of religion and permeates every brotherhood organization.

The appeal for help made by the physically sick and maimed has led many a noble-hearted young man to prepare for and devote himself to the arduous profession of medicine, occasionally thereby to a large extent turning aside from the pleasures of the leisurely life that ample means might have afforded him, finding compensation in the knowledge of the facts of science and his ability to helpfully apply them. It can but be acknowledged that no body of men as a class give so much of themselves to others as do physicians and surgeons, and that individually few men of this profession have ever been known to turn a deaf ear to suffering they could relieve. The city of Champaign has, among other advantages, a skilled and generous body of medical men, and an eminent representative is found in Dr. Harry C. Kariher, widely known in the state.

Harry C. Kariher was born at Chicago, Illinois, September 22, 1878. His parents were Harry and Mary E. (Sullard) Kariher, the former of whom was born at Delphi, Indiana, and the latter in the State of New Jersey. For many years the father was engaged in the drug business in Champaign, building it up to great importance and thereby amassing a large fortune. The handsome Kariher business block stands as a monument to his thrift and enterprise. Both he and wife were of the highest social standing and were beloved and respected by every one. H. C. Kariher, the elder, died in 1893 and his wife in 1895.

Harry C. Kariher attended the public schools of Champaign, graduating creditably from the high school, after which for two years he was a student in the University of Illinois. Having determined on a medical career, the young man then entered Rush Medical College of Chicago, from which great school he was graduated in 1903. He returned then to Champaign and engaged here in practice for one year and then took advantage of a favorable medical opening at Seymour, .Illinois, and continued in that field for five years, returning then to Champaign, where he has large property interests to look after and a weighty practice that he never neglects, and in addition to these responsibilities is also county physician for Champaign Township.

Doctor Kariher has one of the beautiful homes of the city and a happy domestic circle. He married Miss Gwendolyn Roberts, who is a daughter of Humphrey and Sarah C Williams) Roberts, old residents here, and they have one child, Harry Cullen. Doctor and Mrs. Kariher are members of the Emanuel Episcopal Church. In politics he has always been identified with the Republican party, believing in the justice of its principles. He is interested in different scientific bodies, is a member of the Knights of Pythias and belongs to the Country Club.

ANTONY H. BLUE. The poet who said, "Sweet are the uses of adversity," had a true understanding of life's meaning, since it is true that those are happiest who have lived most and have had experiences in which the sweet and the bitter have been mingled. It is the prosperity and contentment won by years of faithful toil, self-sacrifice and economy that Mr. and Mrs. Antony H. Blue enjoy in their beautiful home south of Thomasboro. Mr. and Mrs. Blue have lived in Champaign County since 1870. Years have brought their honest endeavors a full reward and besides their material possessions they present the picture of a true companionship, whole-souled personalities and hospitality and kindliness and generosity are everywhere in evidence.

Both of them are natives of Germany. Antony H. Blue was born in North Germany in 1845, a son of Henry A. and Alma Blue. His father was a sailor and in 1863 lost his life in a shipwreck on the North Sea. The ship went down and all hands aboard perished. The country where Antony H. Blue lived as a boy bordered on the North Sea and nearly all the inhabitants were either sailors or fishermen. In those occupations Antony H. Blue had a complete apprenticeship and grew up strong, sturdy and self-reliant, always ready to face the dangers and difficulties unafraid.

In October, 1869, he was married in his native land to Miss Eckeline Mayar, daughter of H. D. and Engel Mayar. She was also born in the north of Germany. It was in the nature of a wedding journey when

Antony H. Blue and bride set their faces toward the New World in the spring of 1870, crossed the ocean and came inland until they arrived in Champaign County. They located in Eantoul Township, and their home lias never been more than two miles from where they first settled. They were among the early comers, and there were hardships and privations aimost without end until their toils were rewarded with comforts beyond their fondest anticipations.

Tea children were born to their marriage, and five died in infancy. Those who grew up were named H. D., Henry, Alma, Carl and Albert. H. D. Blue is now a retired farmer at Webster City, Iowa. He married Maggie Carsons, and their children are Lena, Walter, Eleanor, Eaymond and Maggie. Henry Blue married Minnie Shoneman, and he is also a farmer at Webster City, Iowa. His children are Leona, Tony and Arthur. Alma Blue married for her first husband Cordy Buscher, and by that union there were three children, Henry, Gertrude and Eveline. For her second husband she married Henry Eihusen, and they have two small daughters. They are farmers and live near Hastings, Nebraska. Carl Blue lives on the old homestead in Champaign County, and by his marriage to Fannie Mathers has one daughter, Lena. Albert Blue was living at Webster City, Iowa, when he died as the result of an operation for appendicitis at the age of twenty-seven. He married Emma Breidentkamp and left two children, Dorothy and Louise.

When Mr. and Mrs. Blue came to Champaign County they rented a tract of land to farm, and by severe application and economy they were justified in making a contract about a year later to purchase eighty acres at $13 an acre. They gave a mortgage to the amount of $1,100 at 10 per cent interest. This land was on the prairie, and during part of every year it was almost covered with water. The year they bought the land was the year of the great Chicago fire, and lumber was very high priced and hard to get. They contented "themselves with very small buildings at first. Because of his early experience as a sailor perhaps Mr. Blue was not so much discomforted as many others would have been at the situation on almost a swamp. In times of high water he frequently took a boat and rowed between his farm and Bantoul. One advantage the swampy land possessed it was the rendezvous for countless ducks and other water fowl, and these birds furnished an abundance of meat for the table. Those early conditions have long since passed away. Land that was once an infertile swamp is now drained and is considered as productive as any farm land in Champaign County. Mr. Blue's efforts have brought him an estate of over 400 acres.

Mr. and Mrs. Blue are regular attendants and members of the German Lutheran Church at Flatville, and their children were all baptized in the same faith. Politically he has been a Eepublican from the time he was granted his first rights as an American citizen. In all things he has been public spirited and has served as a member of the school board and for the last twenty-two years has been president of the Mutual Fire Insurance Company and also agent for the North German Lloyd Steamship Line. Mr. Blue has been able to revisit the fatherland several times, and in 1901 he made an extended trip of two months, being accompanied by his wife, and they visited old scenes and revived many old acquaintances among people whom they had known when they were children.

ARTHUR T. WALLS. There are certain lines of business so necessary to the growth, life and comfort of a community that they have become standard, as it were, and fill a stable, definite place in the commercial world. They are solid and dependable and it is not unusual to find a business of this kind descending from father to son, and very often the old established firm name is carefully preserved. Such is the case with W. W. Walls & Company at Champaign, dealers in lumber, building material and coal, the able manager of the concern being Arthur T. Walls, who is recognized as one of the city's alert and representative business men.

Arthur T. Walls was born in Fayette County, Illinois, February 2, 1874, and was thirteen years old when his parents came to Champaign. His father, William W. Walls, was born in Indiana and died at Champaign August 22, 1908. His mother, who bore the maiden name of Josephine Tiemann, was born in Pennsylvania and now resides at Warsaw, Indiana, being the wife of James B. Babcock, whom she married some years after the death of her first husband. Five children were born to William W. and Josephine (Tiemann) Walls, namely: Arthur T. ; a son who died in infancy ; William W., who is deceased ; Katheryn, who is the wife of Harry Herrick, a well known business man of Champaign; and Glenn H., who is a resident of Champaign.

Arthur T. Walls attended the public schools until he was seventeen years of age and then became associated in a clerical capacity with his father's lumber business. When William W. Walls came to Champaign in 1887 he bought a partnership in a lumber business with M. E. Lapham and two years later bought Mr. Lapham's interest, at which time he adopted the firm -name of W. W. Walls & Company, which still prevails. He proved an able and successful business man and conducted his affairs wisely and built up an honorable business reputation. At his death his widow, his two sons and his daughter formed a stock company, incorporating, and the business is so operated, with Arthur T. Walls as manager. He is well qualified, having passed his entire business life identified with this concern.

On December 9, 1896, Mr. Walls was united in marriage with Miss Ellen Yates, who was born at Homer, Illinois. Mr. and Mrs. Walls have one daughter, Gwendolyn. They are members of the Presbyterian Church and in all movements of social uplift and public benevolence take an interested part. In political opinion Mr. Walls has always been a supporter of progressive principles, but has never been willing to accept political honors for himself. He is universally popular with his fellow citizens and is especially valued as a member of the local body of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks.

JAMES R. WILLS. Special interest attaches to the career of James R. Wills of St. Joseph not only because of his long residence in that community but also for the fact that he is one of the honored survivors of the great struggle between the North and the South in the '60s. Mr. Wills was one of the productive farmers of this county for fully forty years, and then turned over the heavier responsibilities to a younger generation and with his good wife, who has traveled by his side for over half a century, is enjoying the comforts of a good home and the esteem of many friends in the village of St. Joseph.

Mr. Wills is a Kentuckian by birth, born in Clark County, son of Elijah and Ruth (Beall) Wills. The Wills family came to Illinois in 1855, first living in Edgar County and later locating at Urbana, where the mother died. James R, Wills received his education in the public schools of Kentucky and Illinois, and was twenty-three years of age when the war came on. He felt it a privilege as well as a duty to serve his country in that exciting time, and enlisted in Company K of the Twentyfifth Illinois Infantry. His company was organized from men from Urbana and Homer. The record of this regiment was a splendid one.

It served in Arkansas with General Sigel's division, was at the battle of Pea Ridge, at Sedalia (Missouri), Paducah (Kentucky), and in many of the leading campaigns of the Middle West. Mr. Wills was a natural musician and played the fife in the regimental band, though he also carried a musket and did valiant duty as a private in many battles. He was not possessed of a vigorous constitution when he went to the war and finally his health became so undermined that he was discharged on account of disability.

On May 6, 1866, about a year after the war closed, Mr. Wills married Miss Ella Crayne. A little more than a year ago they celebrated the golden anniversary of their wedding. Mrs. Wills was born in Covington, Indiana, June 20, 1848, a daughter of Levi and Elizabeth (De La Tourette) Crayne. Her mother was of French origin, as the name indicates, and the French words have a significance, "The keeper of little tower." Elizabeth De La Tourette was born near Franklin, Ohio. Her father, John De La Tourette, grandfather of Mrs. Wills, was born on Staten Island, New York, in 1795, and married a girl from Monmouth, New Jersey, where she was born in 1799, of Holland Dutch parentage. John De La Tourette and wife had six sons and six daughters, most of whom lived near Covington, Indiana. It was a splendid family and all of them are now deceased except one son, Schuyler De La Tourette, who remains at the fine old Indiana home, enjoying the comforts of a brick house that was erected many years ago. Schuyler De La Tourette was captain of a company in the Civil War. He is now eighty-three years of age, but his years rest lightly upon him and he retains much of the soldierly bearing of his youth.

After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Wills located on his farm of 120 acres in Stanton Township. Mrs. Wills had grown up there, her father being among the pioneer settlers. The Wills farm adjoined the farm of Mrs. Wills' father, and they began life there when all was open prairie. In 1866 they built a commodious house and it was their home for forty years. Many improvements and adornments were made in this time, including the planting of fruit and shade trees, the cultivation and maintenance of fine fields of grain and pasture and the operation of a very successful farm.

Mr. and Mrs. Wills became the parents of one son and one daughter. Charles Clifton was born September _ 7, 1867, and Bertha Florence was born January 2, 1872. The education of these children was carefully looked after and they have proved themselves worthy and equal to all the emergencies of life. Charles is a prosperous farmer in Compromise Township of Champaign County, and is one of the men of judgment and capacity in that community, where he has served as school director and road commissioner and in other places of trust and responsibility. Charles Mills married Alta Eyestone and six children were born to them, three dying in infancy, those living being Ella, Florence and Harold. The daughter Florence Wills married Charles P. Lippe and they live in the city of Champaign. Mr. Lippe is a traveling salesman for a wholesale house of Decatur, Illinois. They have one son, Raymond W. This grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Wills has made a notable record for so young a man. He was president of his class when he graduated from the Champaign High School in 1910, then did three years' work in the University of Illinois, and is now employed in the First National Bank of Champa'ign. In 1906, forty years after their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Wills left their fine farm and moved to the village of St. Joseph, where they built a cosy home in the north part of the town. They have beautified this place in many ways, and Mrs. Wills is never happier than when working with her flowers and

In matters of politics Mr. Wills supports the Eepublican party. He and his wife have lived to see most of the changes of importance made in Champaign County, and through all the years they have been upheld by their intimate love and sympathy and by the consciousness of doing a good work for those dependent upon them and for their community.

SHELBY D. TAYLOR. A large tract of Champaign County's fertile acres have been developed and improved by Shelby D. Taylor, who still owns one of the valuable farms of the county, though for a number of years he has lived retired at Champaign.

Mr. Taylor came to Champaign County thirty-five years ago. He was born in Morgan County, Illinois, May 15, 1851. His parents, both natives of Kentucky, were George and Polly E. (Tucker) Taylor. His father was born July 20, 1805, and died September 23, 1886, and his mother was born August 15, 1807, and died January 22, 1894. Both of them died in Jacksonville, Illinois. George Taylor spent his active years as a farmer. He and his wife had ten children: Maxmillie, who was born January 6, 1831, and died in February, 1916; Edward A., born January 9, 1833, and died in February, 1912; Benjamin H., born October 2, 1835, and died October 26, 1892; William P., born December 22, 1837, now lives at Springfield, Illinois; Casabianca B., born December 2, 1839, is a resident of Jacksonville; Phoebe, born March 13, 1842, wife of George Scott of Norfolk, Virginia ; Sarah F., born May 5, 1844, wife of Edward E. Telling of Champaign County; George Z., born September 20, 1846, died October 21, 1907; John H., born February 20, 1849, a resident of Mattoon, Illinois; and Shelby D., who was the tenth and youngest of these children.

Shelby D. Taylor was reared on his father's farm in Morgan County, attended the public schools there, and his early experience was farm work. After his marriage he continued farming in Sangamon County about six years, and in 1882 removed to Champaign County, locating on a farm in Homer Township. From Homer Township he removed to Broadland, and on his farm of about 300 acres continued actively as a stock raiser and general farmer for many years, until he retired into Champaign.

Mr. Taylor was married March 27, 1882, to Mary L. Anderton. She was born in Morgan County, Illinois, daughter of William and Margaret (Seymour) Anderton, the former a native of Virginia and the latter of Morgan County, Illinois. Her father was a farmer and died in 1865, and her mother lived until December 29, 1912. Mrs. Taylor was the oldest of three children. The other two are Bird W. of Franklin, Morgan County ; and Levina, who died in 1900.