Crawford County, Illinois - Chapter with an unread heading (no. 17 of those read), 1909 (part 7 of 11)

On November 27, 1851, Mr. Mefford married Patsy Jane Griffith, born in 1834, daughter of Thomas Griffith, a farmer of Scott County, Ky., and his wife Nancy L. (Rollins) Griffith, both pioneers of Kentucky. Of this marriage four children were born, two of whom are now living: Dr. W. T. Mefford, a practicing physician of Chlcago, and David Alonzo, who is a druggist of Robinson. Mrs. Mefford died March 295, 1900. On July 1, 1901. Mr. Mefford married Miss Mary Jane Firebaugh, daughter of David and Mary Firebaugh, the latter born in Bellefontaine, Ohio, May 4, 1855. Her father died at the present home of the Meffords, in 1887, at the age of seventy-six years, while his widow also passed away there, March 10, 1901. The maiden name of Mrs. Mefford's mother was Mary Ludwig, and She and her husband came from Bellefontaine, Ohio, to Crawford County, IlL, in 1855, when Mr. Firebaugh purchased a farm in Robinson Township, on which was located a saw-mill, which he operated in conjunction with his farming until 1882, and then moved to Robinson and purchased the property where Mr. and Mrs. Mefford now reside. Here he and his wife resided until their deaths. Mrs. Mefford was one of the following list of children: Samuel L., now living on the old Firebaugh homestead, aged, seventy; Willam H., lives in Austin, Texas; David, deceased; Henry C., also deceased, was a lawyer in San Francisco; Isaac, died in infancy ; Dr. I. L., of Robinson; Charles W.. lives in New York City; Joseph, a banker of San Francisco; Mary Jane (Mrs. Mefford), and Chester, who is practicing law in Chicago. Mr. and Mrs. Mefford have one child - Joseph Isaac, born April 8, 1902, a bright, happy, little boy and the apple of his father's eyes.

Mr. Mefford has the satisfaction of looking back upon a well-spent life, having established a reputation as an honest man, a kind and generous neighbor and a devoted husband and father, presenting an example for ambitious young farmers to emulate.

MESERVE, Stephen D., M. D. (deceased), who for many years was one of the leading physicians and surgeons of Robinson, Ill, was born in New Hampshire, August 9, 1818. He spent four years in Fryeburg Academy, and then began reading medicine under Dr. Barrows of that place. After spending a year there he came to Ohio and continuing his studies, eventually entered into active practice. Five years later he attended Miami College, from which he was graduated in 1855, and later he took the addendum degree in the Ohio Medical College at Cincinnati. In 1848, he had come to Clark County, and in 1850 located in Hutsonville. 1856 he established himself in Robinson, where he built up a large and very gratifying practice. Dr. Meserve was married 'October 23, 1850, to Martha Barlow, daughter of E. Barlow, who bore him four children who grew to maturity: Ashbel G., Mattie H., Maud and Blanche.

MEYER, John B. (deceased), for a number of years a tailor of Robinson, Ill, was born Bavaria, Germany, May 9, 1824, and came to America in 1849, settling in Philadelphia, where he followed his trade of a tailor. From there he went to Madison, Ind., and thence to Edinburg. In 1853 he established himself in Robinson, and began working at his trade. In 1862 he disposed of his business and enlisted in the Ninety-eighth Illinois Volunteer Infantry for three years, and was attached to the Army the Cumberland. Among other battles in which he participated may be mentioned, Hoover's Gap, Kingston, Atlanta, Chancellorsville, Selma, etc. Mr. Meyer was discharged July 3, 1865. The year following he went to Germany on a visit, but returning to Robinson, re-established himself in his trade and built up a large and flourishing business.

MIDGETT, Joseph Elmer, M. D. - The medical profession is becoming more and more exacting, and the physician of to-day not only is obliged to be a college-bred man, but he also has to keep abreast of the times and thoroughly understand the great strides that are constantly being made in medical science. Crawford County is the home of some of our most skillful physicians and surgeons, and of this class is Dr. Joseph Elmer Midgett, of Flat Rock, Ill. Dr. Midgett was born east of Flat Rock, September 17, 1875, a son of John Addison and Elizabeth (Due) Midgett. The father was born southeast of Flat Rock, a son

Dr. Midgett first attended school at the La Motte School, near Duncanville, then for two years he was in Danville, and finishing there, began teaching to earn money to enter upon his medical studies. For seven years he taught in a country school, and then entered the Illinois Medical College at Chieago, studying during the summer and continuing his teaching in the winter. In 1903 he was graduated and entered upon ac-

Here he purchased five acres of land on which was a residence, barn and store building, but he has disposed of half of his property at a good figure and now occupies an office in his own building. . In addition, he has various interests in Bokoshe, Indian Territory (now Okla.), owns 40 acres in Arkansas, and has an interest in 160 acres of oil property containing seven produeing wells, with prospects of others. He also owns five shares in the Illinois State Zoo and Amusement Company of Springfield, Ill. Since locating in Flat Rock, Dr. Midgett has firmly established himself in the confidence of the community and enjoys a large and constantly increasing practice. He is a man of ready sympathy, wide experience and cheerful manner, and his patients feel the excellent effect of his presence as soon as he arrives. Dr. Midgett belongs to the ZEsculapian Medical Society, the Crawford County Medical Society, the State Medical Association and the American Medical Association. For fourteen years, Dr. Midgett has been a member of the Methodist Church, of which he is Trustee. He was Superintendent of the Sunday School for two years, and is now teaching a class of young men, and is making his influence felt among them.

On December 31, 1899, Dr. Midgett was married to Amy Miller Kent at the Wesley Chapel, Methodist Chureh, northeast of Flat Rock, by the Rev. L. W. Porter. Mrs. Midgett is a daughter of the late Joseph and Elizabeth Kent. Mr. Kent was a farmer who died of what was supposed to be rupture, when he was still a young man. Mrs. Kent died about ten years ago. Dr. and Mrs. Midgett have two children: John Kent, born July 27, 1902, and Katy Elizabeth, born September 12, 1904.

MIDKIFF, Samuel (deceased), for a number of years a member of the firm of Midkiff & Carey, lumber dealers of Robinson, Ill, was born in Granger County, Tenn., April 8, 1824, and when about six years old, was brought to Shelby County, Ind. Mr. Midkeff married February 14, 1848, Mary J. Keck. The following year he loeated in Wisconsin, but four years later came to Illinois and bought 300 acres within two miles of Robinson. This property he cultivated and improved, operating it as a stock and grain farm until December 6, 1882, when he bought a partnership interest in a lumber business at Robinson. Before his marriage Mr. Midkiff served in the Mexican War as a member of Company H, Third Indiana Volunteer Infantry, in Gen. Taylor's army, participating in the battle of Buena Vista and returning after one year's service Mr. Midkiff had these children: Henriette P., Alpheus J. William H., Daniel K., Benjamin F., Lucinda J. and Samuel P., all of whom married. Fraternally, Mr. Midkiff was a Mason.

MILLER, Emanuel (deceased). - ' The account of the simple, kindly life of Emanuel Miller strongly demonstrates the power exerted by a good man, imbued by the sense of duty and perfect faith in the creed he has adopted. The late Emanuel Miller was a farmer by occupation, and of necessity never entered public life, but by his own good deeds and example, he left his impress upon his neighborhood, and not only

Mr. Miller was born in Stark County, Ohio, July 15, 1852, and died Mareh 9, 1904. In early life he came with his father to Crawford County, Ill., becoming one of the prosperous farmers of Martin Township. On December 5, 1874, he married Elinor Connett, of which there was no issue. Their home, however, was gladdened by the orphan nephew and niece whom they adopted, and who grew up to be a comfort and solace to their foster parents. They are now married and have families of their own.

Mr. Miller's religious experience was very profound, he having been converted about' 1891, and from that time on was able to bear up under affliction, sustained as he was by his faith in the wisdom of his Maker. In December, 1903, at a eottage meeting in his own home, he gained such strength and help from the service, that he was able to pass through all the trying phases of his last illness without once fearing for the future, or being shaken in his belief.

Mrs. Miller is a daughter of Hetheoate J. Connett, born May 17, 1817, who married on June 24, 1838, Annie Jane Clark. The latter was born May 17, 1820. They had children as follows: Jo Connett, born June 11, 1839; Amos, Connett, born July 4, 1841; Isaac Connett, born August 3, 1843, deceased; Temperance Connett, born September 26, 1845; Rachel Connett, born October 1, 1848; Ruth Connett, born November 6. 1850; Julia Ann Connett, born November 20, 1852; Woodrough Connett. born March S. 1855; Elinor Connett. born March 28, 1858; and Finly J. Connett, born June 14, 1862.

MILLER, Israel (deceased). - Descended from a race of farmers, Israel Miller exemplified that self-reliant spirit of the early pioneer that never hesitated to attempt what needed to be done. Mr. Miller was born in Stark County, Ohio, July 4, 1846, a son of David Miller, also a native of Ohio. Here Mr. Miller was reared and educated, and on March 7, 1867, married Lydia Ann Ickes, who was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, January 27. 1850, and was reared and educated in her native State. Her father, William Ickes. was a native of Pennsylvania, but was taken to Ohio when about ten years of age. By trade he was a mason but followed farming the greater part of his life. Mrs. Miller was of a family of twelve children, three of whom are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Miller had these children: Malissa, Lucinda, Grace, Cora, Crone. two infants who died unnamed, Fred and D. W., the first three born in Ohio and the remainder in Illinois. They were all well edueated. and the boys all became farmers, except one who is a carpenter.

In 1864 Mr. Miller enlisted in Company E. One Hundred and Seventy-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served until the close of the war. although becoming dangerously ill on account of exposure while in the service. After returniug home he began working in the coal mines in Stark County, Ohio, after his honorable dis- charge. In 1875 he moved with his family to Robinson Township, Crawford County, where he bought thirteen acres of land which he cultivated. About a year after his marriage he had bought 120 acres in Oblong Township and, at the time of his death on June 26, 1905, was the owner of 140 acres, which he had improved and which had been his home up to that period. Mr. Miller had been a life-long Republican, and served very acceptably as School Director for years. Prior to his death he had leased his land to the oil company, but died before oil was located, which it was in 1906, and there are now eight wells in operation on it. Mr. Miller was a member of the G. A. R. and was a man widely known and much respected. During his life he was a hard worker and a kindly, intelligent man, beloved in his family and neighboorhood.

MILLS, William Morton. - As a rule the man who grows up in a community naturally feels more interest in it than another who has come to it later in life. Especially is this true of those who inherit property that is handed down to them by fathers who have wrested it from the wilderness. William Morton Mills, of Section 2, Prairie Township, was born on the property on which he now lives, January 15, 1862, a son of Elihu Mills. ;

Elihu Mills was born November 15, 1823, in Wayne County, Ind., and early in life was compelled to go out and earn his own way in the world, his father having died when he was but three months old. He earned his first hat by picking brush at 1215 cents per day, and did not have shoes until when ten years old, and often was accustomed to relate how, with his feet bundled up in rags, he would chop wood until his feet grew numb with the cold and he was compelled to go inside the house to warm them. When about twelve years of age he came from Indiana to Vermilion County, Ill., and there worked for his brother Seth, until he was old enough to hire out, receiving $12 per month for his labor. For a few years he worked as a farm hand and then came to Prairie Township, Crawford County, settling on the present farm of William Morton Mills. He entered 160 acres of land, about one-half of which was timber, and built a log house of one room, 18x 20 feet. At the time of the death of his mother at this place, Mr. Mills was sick, and after his recovery he returned to Wayne County, Ind., and worked at the carpenter's trade for about six years, when he again came to Illinois, settling in Clark County at the home of his widowed sister, Charity Canada, whose farm he operated for four years. At this time his sister went to Parke County, Ind, and Mr. Mills came to Prairie Township again, renting his farm. to a family with whom he lived. He was drafted into the army in 1864, but being a member of the Friends, or Quaker denomination, he did not believe in war, and as a subsequence hired a substitute to take his place. After his marriage he returned to his first farm, and there continued to live for the remainder of his life. Mr. Mills was a hardy, industrious man, and during the winter months often drove six miles to some timberland that he owned, split rails and hauled them to his farm. He cleared his property, on which he dug six wells, and made many improvements. His six children were all born on this farm and all attended the district school of the vicinity, his eldest daughter also having the advantage of a select school education in Clark County. His children were: Thomas Elwood, born October 25, 1862; Mary Catherine, born February 20, 1864; William Morton; Edward Everett, born December 1, 1866, died November 23, 1884; an infant son, born March 6, 1873, died March 7, 1813; and Sarah Frances, born December. 22, 1874.

William Morton Mills attended school in Prairie Township, attending the Muddy Creek School regularly summers and winters until fourteen years old, and from that time until he was twenty-one years of age in the winters only. When not at school he helped in work on the farm, and on completing his education began farming in conjunction with his father. After his father's death, he took full charge of the home place, which he has since.continued to conduct and has made many improvements on it, among which was the clearing up of twenty acres of timberland. He is known throughout the township as a skilled agriculturist and a man of honor and integrity. Since sixteen years of age he has been a member of the Friends Church, taking a neutral stand in local politics, but in national matters is a stanch Republican.

Mr. Mills was married April 16, 1895, to Lucetta Catherine Spraker, the daughter of Sylvester and Frances (Bell) Spraker, whose grandfather came to Illinois as a pioneer and purchased a large tract of land, which he divided among his children. Mr. and Mrs. Mills have become the parents of two children: Emeline, born January 27, 1894; and Allen Francis, born April 26, 1895, but died August 28, 1908.

MONTGOMERY, Samuel C., for many years associated with the agricultural interests of Montgomery Township, Crawford County, and a member of the pioneer family of that name, was born in Crawford County, March 25, 1849, a grandson of the pioneers, Andrew and Elizabeth (Colwell) Montgomery, who had a large family. Among these was Andrew, who married twice, his first wife being Sarah Carter who bore him five children. His second wife was Martha J. Highsmith, and she bore him eight children, of whom Samuel C. was one. The father died September 27, 1880, and the mother passed away December 9, 1872. The history of the Montgomery family is very interesting, members of the family having been in the various confliets of this country, and they are still to be found ever conserving the best interests of their communities wherever they may be.

Crawford County, was born in the Township named after his family, which has been connected with the history of Crawford County since a very early day. Members of this family are to be found throughout this section of the State. Mr. Montgomery was married in that Township to Hazael Lindsay, who bore his ten children: Abner, Hazael L., William E., John, Dewitt C., Lafayette E., Sarah R., Amos, Charley, and Effie. Mr. Montgomery was a Mason, belonging to Lodge No. 447, Birds Station. He became the owner of 320 acres of land, and farmed upon an extensive scale.

MOORE, John Elmer. - A great deal has been said and written relative to the great work accomplished by the pioneers of all communities, and so very often what is being accomplished by the farmers of to-day is overlooked. It is not a small item in the history of agricultural life, for each season brings out something new, some advanced method of doing work that simplifies the task and produces greater results by the expenditure of much less labor. The farmer of today is not content with merely earning a living, but he expects his land to yield him a good profit just as any business man looks for results from any other investment. For this and other reasons, men of intelligence and much executive ability are confining themselves to farming, and they appear satisfied with what they are accomplishing, as they have every reason to be.

John Elmer Moore, one of the progressive farmers of La Motte Township, Crawford County, Ill, is one of the leading men of his community, born in the village of Hutsonville, April 13, 1869, a son of John Alexander Moore, a pioneer of Crawford County, Ill., who died March 1, 1896, on his homestead, about a mile southeast of his son's residence. He was a soldier in the Civil War, and served for four years with distinguished honor. His first wife was Emma Houtz, who died about 1871, leaving two children: Lena Ota, born August 14, 1867, and John Elmer, born April 18, 1869. After the death of his first wife, Mr. Moore married Amanda Newbold, and they had four children: Levi, born February 8, 1873; Eldo, born October 12, 1875; Elma, born October 12, 1877, and Alma, born November 6,-1880.

John Elmer was educated in the Cauliflower and Moore Schools, attending in the winter time until he was eighteen years old, and assisting his father during the summer months. On March 10, 1897, he married Sarah Edith Jordan, daughter of William F. and Chloe (Stoner) Jordon, the ceremony being performed by the Rev M. V. Hathaway of the Christian Church. Mrs. Jordon was a daughter of Daniel Stoner. Mr. Jordon died February 14, 1892, but his widow survives and lives on the old home farm in La Motte Township. Mr. and Mrs. Jordon had children as follows: Sarah Edith, born October 29, 1867; Ira R.. born December 9, 1869; William Lee, bosn October 27, 1871; Daniel Henry,.born April 7, 1874, Mary Esther, born September 22, 1878; Nellie Maude, born May 6, 1881; Samuel P., born

August 17, 1883; Leslie Emerson, born December 7, 1885, died October 8, 1886; Gladys Edna, born March 13, 1889. All these children are married.

Mr, and Mrs. Moore have had two children: Orpha Jordon, born December 24, 1897, and John Byron, born May 26, 1903. In politics Mr. Moore is a Republican, but has never aspired to public office. He is a member of the Christian Church, which he joined eighteen years ago. His wife having been a member of the same church for twenty-seven years. In 1897 Mr. Moore bought his present farm of 150 acres, nearly all of which is under cultivation. The family home is a pleasant one, and the Moores are among the leading citizens of their locality.

MOUSER, William. - The discovery of oil in Crawford County has revolutionized realty values, and the men fortunate enough to own oilproducing property are accounted among the fortunate ones of earth. William Mouser, farmer, stock-raiser and oil-producer of Section 19, Oblong Township, Crawford County, owns 240 acres of as fine property as can be found in the county, and is one of the prosperous men of his community. Mr. Mouser was born in Licking County, Ohio, July 15, 1841, a son of Samuel Mouser, now deceased, who was one of the pioneer farmers of Oblong Township. He was born in Virginia, October 25, 1815, but reared in Ohio, where he learned the trade of mill-stone making, which he there followed in connection with his farming operations. He was married in Ohio to Elizabeth Maiden, who was born in Virginia, September 25, 1816, but reared in Ohio. Of their five children, Wiliam was the eldest; Thomas B., resides in Tennessee; Salina, is the widow of Nehemiah Bottenfield; Henry, resides in Oblong Township, Crawford County; and Eliza is the widow of David Reed.

William Mouser came with his father to Crawford County in 1842, and ean well remember having seen large herds of deer and shooting many turkeys. | He also remembers that the early days most of the trading was done at Palestine and Hutsonville, and can well remember when the present town of Robinson was nothing but a wild rolling prairie. His father Samuel Mouser entered land in Licking Township, Crawford County, which he improved into a farm and then sold to a Mr. Coulter, later purchasing the home in Oblong Township where his son William now lives, which he also improved, meanwhile carrying on general farming and stockraising until his death. He was a lifelong Demoerat, and in religious affiliations he was a member of the United Brethren Church. His death occurred May 20, 1873, at the age of fifty- Seven years, and, although taken away in the prime of life, he had accomplished much and was pen ppa favorably known. His wife died March 7, 1895.

William Mouser was educated in his district and assisted his father on the home place. On June 14, 1883, he married Melissa Tuel, a daughter of Martin and Katerine (Krise) Tuel, of German descent, but a native of Virginia, where she was reared and educated. Mr. Tuel was a carpenter by trade and died in Virginia, and after his death his wife and family came to Illinois, and located in Robinson, where Mrs. Mouser resided until her marriage. The mother married again, her second husband being Solomon Biggs, a farmer of Robinson Township, where Mrs. Biggs died, August 30, 1899.

After his marriage, Mr. Mouser bought out the other heirs and has made many improvements, his property of 240 acres being exceedingly valuable. In May, 1906, oil was located on his farm, and he now has ten wells drilled, from which he derives a good income. The land upon which his father settled in Licking Township was purchased from the Government, as was also a part of. the Oblong Township land, and on the former he built a log house in which he resided until selling the place. For some time the family lived in a log house on the Oblong Township property. which they later weatherboarded, but eventually, about 1860, Mr. Mouser built a frame house. This, in turn, has been replaced by a more modern structure by the son, William Mouser.

Mr. and Mrs. Mouser have these children: Emma, who married Ernest Reedy, a farmer of Oklahoma; Nora and Cora, all born on the present farm. In polities, Mr. Mouser is a Demoerat, although he has never sought public office.

MUCHMORE, John Benjamin. - Coming of old and honored stock, a son of a veteran of the Civil War, and himself an important factor in the business life of Oblong, Crawford County, where for twenty years he has been actively engaged in conducting a large drug and painters' supply house, John Benjamin Muchmore is justly admitted to be one of the representative men of the county. Mr. Muchmore was born at Oblong, October 31, 1868, a son of Theodore Napoleon and Eliza Matilda (Redman) Muchmore The father was born near Rushville. Ind., March 11, 1844, while the mother was born in Knox County, Ohio, November 25, 1842. The grandfather Benjamin Park Muchmore was born at Plainville, Hamilton County, Ohio, February 29, 1812, while his wife, Ruth L., was born in the vicinity of Robinson, Ill., near a place called Onion Hill, June 22, 1818. On August 9, 1862, Theodore N. Muehmore enlisted in General Wilder's celebrated brigade and participated in many of the bloodiest battles of the war, including Chickamauga, Siege of Atlanta, Selma, Ringgold, Knoxville Mission Ridge and Nashville, and was mustered out at the last named city, in 1865, at the close of the struggle, after a long and honorable term of service. He is widely known throughout his county, and is a member of Albert Wood Post, G. A. R.

John Benjamin Muchmore received a common school education, and twenty years ago he and his father founded their big supply house, occupying the double store building which the firm owns, in addition to other valuable realty, including their homes in Oblong, The elder Mr. Muchmore is a Republican, while his son is a to take a very active part in politics, although from 1898 to 1902 he served as Justice of the Peace. Fraternally he is a member of Knights of Pythias and Modern Woodmen, and is very popular in both orders, as well as socially. In 1893 Mr, Muchmore married Miss Allie Hill, daughter of Barton Hill, a pioneer of Crawford County, but they have had no issue. Mr. Muchmore is one of the enterprising, progressive young business men of Oblong, and his business shows a gratifying and healthy increase with each year, the firm controlling a large trade, not only in Oblong, but throughout a wide-spread contiguous territory.

MURPHY, E. E. (deceased), formerly one of the leading merchants of Robinson, was born February 18, 1834, in Licking County, Ohio, but was taken in childhood to Michigan by his parents. In 1854 he came to Palestine, Ill., and for three years clerked and then embarked in a mercantile business of his own. In 1875 he removed to Robinson, and established his mercantile house here, which became so well known. He built his own store, and carried a large stock, aggregating $20,000.00 in annual sales. Mr. Murphy married Eliza Alexander of Palestine, June 11, 1857, and she bore him two children: Jeannette and Mary B. Mrs. Murphy died in 1867, and iu February, 1872, married Sallie C. Swearingen, who died in October, 1875. He married in July, 1818, Frances Davis of Greenville, Ill.

MUSGRAVE, William (deceased), who was one of the distinguished pioneers of Crawford County, was born in Wayne County, N. C., February S, 1816, a son of John and Charity (Cox) Musgrave, the father born in North Carolina in 1758 and died in April, 1824, while the mother, also a native of North Carolina was born in 1774, and died in June, 1824. The youngest son and sixth of his parents' seven children, William, was left an orphan at eight years old, and was brought to Union County, Ill, by his brothers Josiah and John. Another brother, Caleb, had come to Union County four years earlier and William made his home with him until 1833, when he came to Crawford County with his brother John, and the two worked together as carpenters. In 1834 occurred the marriage of William Musgrave and Eliza Ann Cox, who was a native of Greene County, N. C., born January 17, 1816. They became the parents of nine children, five of whom grew to maturity: Sally Ann, Anna M, Jonathan K., George A. and Herriet. After marriage Mr. Musgrave began farming upon what was his hometsead, which had been improved by John Snipes, and in time he became possessed of 500 acres of desirable farm land, but he later divided the greater portion of it among his children. Mr. and Mrs. Musgrave for years were consistent members of the Universalist Church.

NEELEY, James. - Farming is no longer carried on simply to obtain a living, but is as much a business as any other line of work. The farmer of to-day has to be enterprising, thrifty and progressive, or he discovers that others are crowding him into the background, and that is Something none of the farmers of Illinois are willing to stand, so independent have they become since they have realized how important is their calling to the welfare of the nation. James Neeley of Section 19, Martin Township, Crawford County, is one of the successful farmers and stock-raisers of this locality. His father, Edward Neely, was born in Ohio, where he was

In 1853 he came with his family to Martin Township, he and his brother James driving a wagon. Edward Neeley entered from the Government, 160 acres of raw prairie and timber land, which he cleared and transformed into a good farm. Later he bought 40 acres adjoining that was already under cultivation, Still later he bought 80 acres more, 30 acres of which was cultivated. He cleared a portion of the remaining 50 acres, which was in brush and timber. He then bought 40 acres more of timber, which has since been cleared by his son, James Neeley. Edward Neeley died on his homestead after a long and useful life.

James Neeley secured his early education in Martin Township, but when only sixteen years old he ran away and joined the army, enlisting at Centralia, Ill, in Company D, Ninety-eighth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, Captain Wood commanding, in July, 1862. A short time afterwards Captain Wood was discharged on account of illness, and Captain Young had charge of the Company. Mr. Neeley served under Captain Young until the promotion of the latter to the rank of.. Colonel, when he was succeeded by Captain- Brown. Mr. Neeley was honorably discharged at Louisville, Ky., and was sent with his regiment to Springfield, Ill, to be mustered out. Then at nineteen years of age returning home, he settled down to assist his father in clearing the land.

Mr. Neeley remained thus employed for three years, when he was married to Emily Enlow, daughter of David Enlow, a farmer of Martin Township. After his marriage he moved onto a farm of 120 acres in Section 19, which he eleared and fenced, afterwards adding thereto 40 acres, 20 acres of which was cultivated, the remainder being timber. Mr. and Mrs. Neeley have had one chiid, Arley, who married Flora Harris, daughter of Nicholas Harris, a farmer of the same township. Although not a member of any church, Mr. Neeley is very generous in his donations to religious organizations, and believes in their work. He is a Republican in his political relations.

NEWBOLD, D. F. (deceased), for many years associated with the agricultural interests of Oblong Township, Crawford County, was born in Scott County, Ky., October 25, 1825, and when five years old was taken by his parents to Rush County, Ind., where he was brought up on a farm, and given but a limited education. At the age of twenty-two he engaged in farming for himself in Rush County, but in 1857 moved to Oblong Township, and bought a farm, which he operated until 1860, when he returned Lo Rush County. Once more he came to Oblong Township in 1863, and bought 80 acres in Section 25, to which he added 145, and this became his home place, which he devoted to grain and stockgrowing. On January 1, 1847, he married in Rush County, Ind. Sarah Thomas, a native of Pennsylvania, by whom he had a son, James Thomas. Mrs. Newbold died in Rush County, Ind., July 1, 1850. On August 30, 1854, Mr. Newbold married in Rush County, Ind., Eliza Jane Kirkpatrick, and they had three children who grew to maturity: Sarah Florence, Theodore and Jesse R. The second Mrs. Newbold died in January, 1873, in Oblong Township. Mr. Newbold married, the same year, Mary Ann Smith, who bore him one daughter, Nellie, and she had a daughter by her first marriage, Albina E. Smith. Mr. Newbold was a Democrat and held numerous township offices, including those of Collector, Assessor and Supervisor.

NEWBOLD, William Andrew. - The commercial activity of Crawford County is nicely gauged by the prosperity of the leading business men of the various communities within its confines, and one which occupies a prominent position is the house conducted by William Andrew Newbold, whose mercantile establishment is one of the leading concerns of its kind for a wide area. Mr. Newbold was born on a farm in Crawford County, January 7, 1867, a son of Andrew and Amanda (Gaines) Newbold. Andrew Newbold came from Rush County, Ind.. to Crawford County in the '0s, and he and his wife were among the pioneers of this locality. Attending school in his district, William A. Newbold secured a fair. common school education, and worked upon a farm until 1903, when he purchased the stock of I. A. Shire & Son, from the trustee in bankruptcy, where he has since conducted a large and flourishing business and now commands a flourishing trade. His executive ability and good management have made him a leader in his line.

On September 25, 1899, Mr. Newbold was married in Oblong Township to Miss Alice M. Kirts, a daughter of Isaac and Mary Kirts, both from Marion County, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Newbold have had two children: Charlie, born July 16, 1890; Belvia, born April 10, 1902. They have a de lightful home in one of the most desirable residence districts of Oblong. In politics Mr. Newbold is a Democrat and has served acceptably as Collector for two terms and Assessor for one term. Fraternally he is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Lodge No. 850, which he joined in December, 1893. He is a Methodist, having joined that church seven years ago, of which his wife has been a member since childhood.

NEWLIN, Andrew (deceased), who for many years was a farmer and stockman of Hutsonville Township, was born in Crawford County, Ill., June 25, 1829, a son of William and Rachel \ (Hill) Newlin, and grandson of Thomas Newlin who came of Irish descent. Both parents were born in North Carolina, and the mother died in August, 1833, and the father about 1838. After a boyhood spent on the farm, with intermittent attendance at the subscription schools, Andrew Newlin, who was the youngest of his parents' six children, married April 8, 1830, daughter of Reuben A. and Barbara (Hockman) Holmes, the former of whom died in Crawford County, December, 1853, aged fifty-six years, while his wife died in Ohio in April, 1852. Mr. Holmes married a second time. Mr. and Mrs. Newlin had ten children: Albert, Amanda, Laura, Allen, Adaline, Stephen D., Lawrence, Ira, an unnamed infant and Clinton. Mr. Newlin eventually became the owner of 2,396 acres of land all in Hutsonville Township, except 60 acres in Clark County. This was very remarkable for he started his business career with but $150, which he inherited from his father, so that all he accumulated was earned through his energy, foresight and economy. Mr. Newlin was a stanch Democrat, and served very acceptably as Supervisor for three years, and also filled other offices, always striving to do his full duty as he understood it.

NEWLIN, Cyrus (deceased), who for many years was associated with the agricultural interests of Hutsonville Township, Crawford County, was born in that Township, June 3, 1825, a son of James and Elizabeth (Simons) Newlin, both born in Orange County, N. C., the former on December 4, 1781. James Newlin was a son of John Newlin, also a native of North Carolina. James Newlin came to Crawford County, Ill., in 1818, and entered 480 acres of land in Hutsonville Township, where his son Cyrus later lived, and there he died in 1852, his wife having died there in 1850. They became the parents of ten children, of whom eight lived to maturity and Cyrus Newlin was the youngest. His boyhood was spent on the farm, and he attended the subscription school. When he was twenty-one years old he married, but remained with his parents until 1850, when he made the trip to California. In a year he returned and bought 160 acres in Crawford County. In 1862 he visited Chicago and Northern Illinois, and in 1872 went to Colorado, as well as other states for his health. In time Mr. Newlin became an extensive stockman, buying, raising and trading in local markets. Eventually he owned 400 acres of land, and was a very substantial man. In March, 1846, he married in Crawford County, Eliza Ann Hill, a native of that county, born September 12, 1825, daughter of John A. and Sarah (Barbee) Hill, the father born in 1801 and the mother in 1801. The former died in 1834, his wife surviving until 1855. Mr. and Mrs. Newlin had three children. `

NEWLIN, Judge Enoch Ellery, lawyer and jurist of Robinson, Ill. The highest type of character is displayed by the judicial mind, and he who can carefully weigh evidence and dispense justice evenly, especially among his neighbors and friends, must possess that clear insight into the groundwork of human right which sooner or later appeals strongly to the people, and to maintain a judicial office for many years is the best evidence of worth and integrity a man can give his fellow men. Judge Newlin was born in Crawford County, Ill., February 22, 1858, a son of Thomas and Mary Elizabeth (Ruckel) Newlin, most highly esteemed residents of this section of the State.

Eli Newlin, the grandfather of Judge Newlin, came from North Carolina to Crawford County, Il, about 1814 or 1815 and settled on government land in Hutsonville Township and continued to reside in that vicinity until his death. He was the father of eight children, namely: Mahala, the wife of Alfred Correll; Jonathan; Sarah, who married William Patten; Enoch; Mary, who married William Sutherland; Thomas, Frederick, and Kelley, all deceased, and all of whom reared families. Thomas Newlin was born in Crawford County in 1821, and in April, 1861, enlisted in Company I, Seventy-Ninth Illinois Volunteer Infantry. He was sent to the hospital at Murfeesboro, Tenn., where he died of disease in April 1862. His brother Kelley, and his nephews, Cyrus Patten and Luther Newlin, enlisted in the same regiment, and all died in the army. Previous to his enlistment he had been engaged in farming in Licking Township, Crawford County, where his widow, left with six children. the oldest of whom was twelve years of age, struggled along on a small pension, and although the family was in very straitened circumstances, managed to keep her family together and give her children a good education.

After completing a common school education, Judge Newlin began teaching a winter school when only sixteen years of age, and thus continued for eight consecutive terms, when in 1879 he took a course in the Indiana State Normal School at Terre Haute. A year later he began taking a course in the law office of Callahan & Jones at Robinson, and in 1882 was admittted to the bar in Springfield, Ill. Without money, property or clients, and with little to depend upon except his ambition to win success in his profession, he opened an office in Robinson, and two years later (in 1884) was elected State's Attorney for Crawford County and reelected in 1888, but declined the nomination for 1892. In 1888 he entered into partnership with Judge J. C. Olwin, under the firm name of Olwin & Newlin, which lasted until the death of Judge Olwin in 1890. The following year another partnership was formed with Judge W. C. Jones, under style of Jones & Newlin, and this was continued until the election of Judge Newlin to the Circuit Court for the Second Judicial District, in June, 1897. This district comprised twelve counties in the

` southeastern part of the State, of which Crawford is the most northerly. 1908 he was elected to this office for the second term, which was a vindication of his record on the bench. Politieally a Democrat, Judge Newlin has been prominent in the councils of his party, serviug for eight years as Chairman of the County Central Committee, but upon his election to the Cir-

Judge Newlin was married January 1, 1885, to Miss Clara A. Coulter, a niece of the late Judge Jacob Wilkin, of the Supreme Court of Illinois, and of this marriage three children have been born: Mary Fay, born November 17, 1885; Frank Enoch, born July 13, 1887, and Marian Ora, born May 5, 1897, all at home. In 1887 Judge Newlin joined the Methodist Episcopal Church, and for the past twenty years has served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of his local church organization. He has been a member for many years of the Masonic fraternity. In his knowledge of the law Judge Newlin covers a wide range, and his ability both as a judge and attorney is undisputed. His ideals of the legal profession have always been high and he has lived up to them; and for many years he has been a leader in all movements for the improvement and advancement of legal procedure in the State and county.

NEWLIN, Leroy, M. D. - The thoroughly trained physician and surgeon of to-day is a man widely versed in many lines, able to take charge of a difficult case at a moment's notice, and with steady hand and clear head deal with the issues of life and death. Years of study and hard training go before the man of medicine is ready to begin his practice, and even then he cannot afford to relax his efforts but must keep on studying in order that he may keep abreast of the later discoveries and profit by his own observations. Dr. Leroy Newlin, who is one of the leading representatives of his profession in Robinson, Crawford County, Ill, was born in Crawford County, March 8, 1860. a son of Thomas and Mary Newlin, natives of Crawford County and Columbus, Ohio, respectively, the mother having been brought from Ohio to Crawford County when she was twelve years of age. Dr. Newlin worked hard to secure his education, first attending the district school and working on the farm; then saving a little money, went to the State Normal School at Terre Haute, Ind., and thus, studying and teaching at the same time, spent about ten years of his life before he was able to take up the study of medicine. About that time he began to read medicine with Dr. C. Barlow of Robinson, and in 1887 entered the Kentucky School of Medicine at Louisville, from which he was graduated in the class of 1891. He first began the practice of medicine in the village of Hardinville, where he continued for sixteen years, gaining a valuable experience. He was well known throughout all that territory not only as a skillful and conscientious physician and surgeon, but feeling that he needed a wider field of operation, in 1907 located in Robinson, where his brothers, Judge E. E. Newlin and Thomas J. Newlin, attorneys-at-law, were pleasantly situated. Since coming to Robinson he has made himself felt, not only in professional circles but also in political circles, although not as an office seeker and never having accepted any public position except that of Pension Commissioner. He belongs to the Crawford County Medical Society, the Illinois State Medical Association and the American Medical Association, as well] as the ZEsculapian and Medical Society of the Wabash Valley. Fraternally he is a Mason and Modern Woodman.

Dr. Newlin was married on March 26, 1893, to Miss Louie O. Vance, born in Crawford County, a daughter of Mahlon and Margaret Vance. Mrs. Newlin attended the publie school, graduating at the Central Normal School at Danville, Ind. She taught school for a number of years and is a highly cultured lady. In religious affiliations both are members of the Christian Church, Dr. Newlin having been a member for twenty years, and his wife for five years. 'They have,childre as follows: Mary, born September 189%; Harold, born October 15, 1896, and John E., born March 10, 1898. Dr. Newlin occupies a beautiful home, and also owns a fine farm of 70 acres, one-half mile north of the village of Hardinville, upon which are twelve producing oil wells.

NEWLIN, Martin. - Residing in a beautiful home in West York, Crawford County, Ilt., surrounded with the comforts earned by years of hard work, Martin Newlin is justly recognized as one of the prosperous citizens of this locality. He was born in Crawford County, near West York, February 16, 1835, a son of Andrew Newlin, who was a native of Randolph County, N. C., born in 1810. Andrew Newlin came to Crawford County in 1818, and when he reached manhood bought Mexican War military warrants, thus acquiring 320 acres of land for less than a dolar an acre. He cultivated his land and gained a large and very valuable property upon which he resided until his death in 1877. His wife's maiden name was Rachel Halliday, her parents being Robert E. and Margaret (Willard) Halliday, also natives of North Carolina.

Until he was twenty-eight years of age, Martin Newlin lived on his father's farm. meantime securing what education could be obtained in the subscription schools. For thirty-eight years he lived and worked upon his own farm, near Annapolis, Crawford County, Ill, and during his residence in Prairie Township served as school director for a number of years, in politics always being a firm Democrat. His habits and inclinations were domestic and he never has allied himself with any church or society.

In March, 1863, Mr. Newlin married Miss Emma J. Hill, daughter of John and Lizare Hill, at the home farm, four miles west of Hutsonville, and the following children were born to them: Alice Victoria, born December 6, 1863, married M. C. Stanfield, a saddler and harness dealer at Annapolis. and they have two children, a girl and a boy; William Henry Robert, born August 24, 1865, deceased; John Andrew, born August 19, 1869, unmarried, lives in Winfield, Kas.; Nellie Jane, born June 4, 1878, married Ray Hill son of Alva Hill and they live at Annapolis where Mr. Hill is a farmer and stockraiser, On March 26, 1895, Mr. Newlin married as his second wife Miss Angeline Piety, daughter of, J. D. E. and Eliza Piety, near Darwin, Clark County, Ill. Mrs. Newlin was born in Vigo County, Ind., August 1, 1853, and ¿ae spent her childhood on the home farm, later being engaged in teaching for ten years in Clark County. She has been a member of the Church of Christ for many years, in which she is an active worker. The family have a beautiful home in West York, and their lawn is delightful with its great forest trees and graceful flowers, the special care of Mrs. Newlin.

It is impossible to do justice to a family like the Newlins in so small a space, for their own history would fill a volume. Even in a restricted territory there are many, among whom may be mentioned the families of Judge E. E., Thomas J. and Dr. Leroy Newlin, living in Robinson ; several others living in West York; the two brothers of the name who are bankers in Hutsonville, as well as many others who are bearers of the family name of Newlin in Crawford and neighboring counties.

emigrated to Indiana, and in 1818 came to Crawford County, Ill., entering 200 acres of land on Section 28, Hutsonville Township. To this he later added 120 acres, and becoming one of the earliest settlers of the county. His wife bore the maiden name of Jane Hill, and she was born in North Carolina and died in Crawford County, having borne her husband eight children. Sargent Newlin lived on the farm and attended subscription schools, and when he was twenty-one he married and began farming on 20 acres given him by his father. To this he added until at one time he owned 317 acres. December 22, 1842, he married Jane Lackey, born in Bourbon County, Ky., in 1826. Mr. and Mrs. Newlin became the parents of three children: Anna M., John T. and Rose E. Politically he was a Democrat, and served in the capacity of Supervisor.

NEWLIN, Thomas J. - The legal profession offers many opportunities to those who have embraced it, and pitfalls as well; for, unless the attorney keeps his ideals high and his conception of the duties of a lawyer untarnished, there is danger for him. Thomas J. Newlin, one of the practicing attorneys of Crawford County, Ill., residing at Robinson. was born near Bellair, Crawford County, IlL, April 2, 1853, a son of Thomas and Mary E. (Ruckle) Newlin. By a previous marriage, Thomas Newlin, Sr., had two children: Martha, now Mrs. John Watt, of Hunt City, Ill., and J. M. Newlin, of Willow Hill, Il. The children of the second marriage were George A., now deceased; Judge E. E. Newlin; Dr. Leroy Newlin, of Robinson; and Thomas J. Newlin, the subject of this sketch. The father died when the son, Thomas J., was five days old, leaving the latter to the care of his widowed mother, and he received his primary educational training in the district schools, while assisting in the support of the family by working on the farm, later taking courses in the Merom (Ind.) College and the Normal College at Danville, and subsequently teaching for seven years in the Crawford County publie schools. The mother married as her second husband Thomas Lewis, and by this marriage there were three children: Nettie and Mandaline, both of whom died in infancy, and Delia Smith, who is a teacher, being at the present time at the head of the Primary Department of the graded schools of Oblong, Ill.

In 1889 Thomas J. Newlin began the study of law in the office of his brother, Judge E. E. Newlin, and was admitted to the bar in August of 1891, and in November of the following year was eleeted Circuit Clerk of Crawford County, serving four year^, but declined a second nomination because he wanted to begin practice of the law. In 1897 he became a member of the firm of Jones, Eagleton & Newlin, and remained in this partnership until April 1, 1900, when he retired from that firm and formed an association with Valmore Parker, being still a member of the firm of Parker Newlin. They are conveniently located in a suite in the Woodworth Block on the west side of the Publie Square in Robinson, Ill. When the oil business began to attract attention in Crawford County, Mr. Newlin having great faith in the future oil industry, took an active interest in it, and invested in lands that have become the best oil-bearing property in the county, from which he derives handsome dividends. Mr. Newlin owns the home which he oceupies in Robinson, and some farming land in the county.

In 1892 Mr. Newlin married Miss Sarah F. Kirts, of Oblong, Ill, and they have two children, Floy, aged fifteen, and Ralph, aged thirteen. Fraternally Mr. Newlin is a member of the Knights of Pythias, Modern Woodmen and Ma- Sonic orders. Politically he is a Democrat. His religious belief makes him a Methodist, and he is a liberal contributor to the church of his faith. Mr. Newlin is one of the most progressive young men of his locality, and is always foremost in supporting all movements tending towards the betterment of the community, generally.

NICELE, Albert W. - The career of Albert W. Nickle of Robinson, suggests many interesting considerations for the student of character. His intelligent energy attracted, his superior ability won distinction, and his marvelous success has been won by his own efforts. Mr. Nickle was born in Venango County, Pa., at what is called Old Bullion Furnace, April 30, 1851. His father, James Nickle, was of English stock, and during the gold excitement in California, he left home to try his luck in mining after which no trace was found of him. He had formerly been manager for several large blast furnaces. The mother was of New England stock, but born in the Genesee Valley, N. Y.

of age he was earning his own living; at nine, was receiving four and a half dollars per month and board as laborer on farm in Mercer County, Pa.; at ten his work was driving the horses which moved the drill then used in boring oil wells, at Mecca, ten miles north of Warren, Ohio. A year later, he was driving three horses on the Erie Canal from Erie to Beaver, and he was then barely eleven. Continuing this work for a season, which lasted from April to November, he earned $36 each month which was really a remarkable amount for a lad of his years to earn. Out of what he then earned he spent only $7.50, and this was for clothes, for his food and lodging, such as it was, was included in his wages.

In 1865 Mr. Nickle had reached Oil Creek, and tells many interesting facts relative to the early discoveries of oil in this locality. Oil was first found by the Indians, who gathered it as it came to the surface, and called it Seneca Oil, Indian Oil and Rock Oil, and claimed various medicinal properties for it. He well remembers the excitement attending the drilling of the first oil well in the Oil Creek District. The discoverer of the well, Colonel E. L. Drake, had become discouraged and went to' Franklin, Pa., hoping to obtain financial assistance, for he had no appliance other than the.old fashioned pole drill. The driller, William Smith, continued his operation and at a depth of 6915 feet struck oil, and sent word to his employer that he had a twentybarrel well, which was considered a large one for those days. and the date of the discovery, August 27, 1859, was marked with a red letter. Of course, many other wells were drilled, and Oil Creek became densely populated by eager oil seekers. The great difficulty to be overcome was the cost of transportation, it costing from 50 cents to five dollars per barrel to get it to the river, and varying sums from there to Pittsburg, where the only refinery in that region was located. Mr. Nickle became interested in Oil Creek, and through hard work, industry and thrift, gained a foothold in life. In February, 1906, he came to Robinson, where he has flourished until, to-day, his name is associated with many of the largest concerns of the city, among which may be mentioned, The Riddle Oil Company, of which he is general manager, director and treasurer, and the Baty-Nickle Oil Company of Marion, Ind., in which he is largely interested, and of which he is a director. j

On December 25, 1874, at West Monterey, Armstrong County, Pa., Mr. Nickle married Miss Loretta Munn, daughter of Leaverton Munn, a prominent business man and lumber merchant in West Monterey. He and Mr. Nickle were in partnership in several undertakings for a number of years. Although eighty-five, he is in excellent health and has recently made a trip to visit his daughter, Mrs. Nickle, utterly disregarding the fatigue of so long a journey. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Nickle: Clyde L., Edward Earl, and Alta L. Clyde was born January 18, 1875, is married and has three children. He is Vice-President of the Baty- Nickle Oil Company of Marion, Ind. Edward

Earl was born February 2, 1877, and is also in the oil business, being a well driller and meeting with excellent success. Unmarried, his home is in Robinson with his parents, Alta L. was born March 18, 1879, and was carefully educated at Warren, Pa.; Walnut Lane, Philadelphia, a finishing school for young ladies, and Bucknell College for musie and painting near Philadelphia. She is married to V. W. Davis, an attorney, and has two children, her home being in Robinson.

Fraternally, Mr. Nickle is à member of the Order of Elks and Odd Fellows. He is a Republiean, but while always willing to support all measures which he believes to be for the good of the community, he is not a seeker for public office. "The beautiful modern residence of the Nickle family is one of the most complete in Crawford County, and is supplied with all modern conveniences, including running water, hot air heat and electricity. The grounds surrounding the house are very spacious and beautifully laid out and planted with trees, shrubbery and flowers, so that it is regarded as one of the show places of the town.

Much more might be said of the business career of Mr. Nickle, for his experiences have been varied and interesting; but, after all, the main fact is that commencing when almost a baby, he has worked himself up to his present position of affluence and prominence, and that he is held in high esteem by the people of Robinson, and wherever he has been connected in a business way.

NORTON, Charles Jefferson. - The farming activities of a community are influenced largely by the climatie conditions, the fertility of the soil, and the transportation facilities. Crawford County, Ill, offers almost ideal conditions for successful farming, and the many intelligent men who are engaged in it demonstrate that the people of this county are not backward in appreciating these advantages. One of the prosperous agriculturists of this locality is Charles Jefferson Norton, who was born near Burr Oak, St. Joseph County, Mich., November 26, 1847, a son of Alonzo Norton, who was born in Genesee County, N. Y., February 20, 1807. and died in Montgomery Township, Crawford County, May 18, 1879. He had a family as follows: William, born April 17. 1888; Rowena, born December 16, 1839, married Allen Magill, and they have a son and daughter and live in Montgomery Township; Harris, born December 25. 1843; Alvira, born May T. 1841; Almira born October 24, 1845 ; Charles Jefferson; Harriet, born February 19, 1850, and Harris (2), born June 13, 1854. The mother of this family was Nancy (Bethelow) Norton. who was born in Virginia, January 22, 1815, and died in Montgomery Township, Crawford County, April 4, 1879. In 1855 Alonzo Norton came to Crawford County and purchased 120 acres in Montgomery Township, on which was a small log house, where the family lived for a number of years.

worked for his father on the farm. On February 26, 1871, he was married by the Rev. Young Allison, minister of the Missionary Baptist Church, to Hannah E. Lackey, who was born, April 18, 1852, and is a daughter of Alexander and Diana (Norton) Lackey, the former born in Lawrence County, Ill, and the latter in Ohio. The following children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Norton: Harriet Armida, born February 27, 1872, married Doss A. East, a son of Joseph and Mary (Pethtel) East, have had three children, lost their oldest daughter but have a son and daughter still living and reside in La Motte Township; Harris Putnam, born April 23, 1874, married Cora Buzzard, daughter of Rev. Samuel Buzzard, and they have one daughter and live in Colorado; Thede May. born February 25, 1876, married Oris McGovern, and they have two sons; Urban, born October 12, 1878, married Mary Seymour, daughter of Morton Seymour, and they have a son and daughter and live in Indiana; Bertie C., born March 28, 1880; Lela A., born December 28, 1882; Elmer F., born February 21, 1885, married Iva Fitzpatrick and they have one daughter; Charles E., born January 4, 1887, married Zella Baker, daughter of Jesse and Flora Elizabeth (Shoulders) Baker, no issue ; and Owen R., born January 24, 1889. Mrs. Charles E. Norton was born April 27, 1884, in Montgomery Township, where her parents were also born, she being the eldest of the six daughters and four sons born to them.

Mrs. Charles Jefferson Norton was one in a family of five children, the eldest of whom, Sarah, is deceased. Asa, the second child, is living; James is also deceased; Mrs. Norton is the fourth child, and the fifth. Frank, is deceased. The Lackey family was one of the most prominent in Lawrence County, Ill., where Mr. Lackey owned considerable property and took a prominent part in the affairs of his township.

Mr. Norton is a Republican, and while interested in local affairs, has never aspired to political honors. Mrs. Norton is a member of the Christian Chureh, which she joined when she was seventeen years old. The Norton farm consists of 260 acres, which is highly cultivated and is devoted to general farming and stock-raising. The large residence was erected by Mr. Norton and is one of the most pleasant farm houses in the township. Mr. Norton has devoted his life to agricultural pursuits, and is recognized as an authority on all matters pertaining to his work. A quiet, conservative man, he is content to devote his time to his personal affairs, but his neighbors find that, in times of trouble, he is a friend to be depended upon.

ODELL, David W. - No one man has borne as prominent a part in the development of Oblong, Crawford County, Ill, as has David W. Odell, who has been connected with almost every enterprise in the flourishing little town of Oblong, and who is now President of the First National Bank of that place, senior member of the firm of D. W. Odell & Son, President of the Oil Bent Traction Company, President of the Illinois Oil Company,

Vice-President of the Clark Byers Machine and Supply Company, and Treasurer of the Oblong Manufacturing Company. Mr. Odell was born on a farm one and one-half miles south of Oblong, June 21, 1867, a son of S. H. and Margaret A. (Perkins) Odel. The father resides in Oblong Township, Crawford County, on the place which his father bought about 1854-55, where the former is now a prosperous farmer. The grandfather, David W. Odell, for whom David W. Odell is named, moved from Indiana to Illinois and started the first store in Oblong, buying 160 acres on the present site of the village, fifty-seven years ago. With him came his son S. H. Odell, and the two became pioneers of this new country. Many acres of prairie land did both break up with the primitive method of an ox-team attached to a heavy plow. Game of all kinds supplied the table with fresh meat, and David W. Odell, the younger, early learned to be skillful with his gun, but from eariiest boyhood he was ambitious, and while other boys were playing he tramped about the country selling books, fruit trees and other commodities, trying to get a start in life. When only twenty-one years old he decided to abandon farm work and become a business man, and he founded a mercantile house at Oblong, there continuing until January 1, 1897, when.he went to Robinson. and for two years was in business there. In February, 1899, he returned to Oblong and for a year was engaged in mercantile business, but on January 1, 1900, established the Oblong Bank, which, in April, 1907, was reorganized as the First National Bank of Oblong, of which he was made President, a position which he still holds. He also conducts a large store adjoining the bank building, under the firm style of D. W. Odell & Son, and carries a full line of shoes, controlling a large trade. In every line of business in which he has embarked, Mr. Odell has met with marked success, and is justly recognized as the leading business man of Crawford County.

Mr. Odell has been married three times; on April 5, 1890, to Miss Dora A. Allison, who died March 24, 1896; on April 3, 1897, to Miss Hattie Carroll, who died October 25, 1902, and on November 21, 1904, he married Miss Josie M. Larrabee. a daughter of Hiram and Sarah. J. Larrabee, who was born at Oblong, Ill. He has the the following children: S. F., born February 25, 1891; D. E., born November 12, 1894; I. W., born August 11, 1902; Ida M., born February 17, 1894; Mildred A., born July 29, 1899, and Bernice J., born April 15. 1907. Fraternally, Mr. Odell is a member of the Knights of Pythias, Odd Fellows, Modern Woodmen Modern Americans. He has been a member of the Methodist Church since 1886. In politics he is a Democrat, but has never aspired to political honors. He is a man widely and favorably known and in the business world, his word is as good as his bond.

lost one of the finest types of citizen that any community can boast. He was a man of the highest integrity ; gentle, and warm-hearted, he drew hundreds to him and retained their friendship and respect through life. No one who knew him failed to respect him, and no one who had any knowledge of his kindly, busy life, but felt a keen regret when he knew that hls span of activity had ended.

Mr. Odell was born in Hancock County, Ind., January 5, 1836, and died in Oblong, February 10, 1888. He was a farmer, dry-goods merchant and hotel proprietor, and a man of many excellent qualities of heart and mind, which he developed to a marked degree. When about seventeen years old he came to Illinois with his father, D. W. Odell, Sr., a sketch of whom will be found elsewhere in this work. Mr. Odell was brought up in his native County and in Oblong Township, where he attended school, and he was reared to farm life. On March 22, 1855, he married Isabelle Ryan, who was born in Highland County, Ohio, November 13, 1836, a daughter of William Ryan, deceased, who was a farmer and pioneer of Jasper County, Ill, born in Virginia, where he was reared, educated and married to Sarah Tindolph. His wife was also a native of Virginia, and was reared at Richmond. Mrs. William J. Odell is the third of a family of four daughters and two sons, two born in Virginia and the remainder in Ohio and Jasper County, Il. William Ryan, her father, came to Illinois with his family in 1866, and locating in Jasper County, entered a quarter-section of land, which he cultivated and improved. He became a very prominent man of Jasper County; politically he was a Democrat, and took an active part in loca! affairs; was a Mason in fraternal relations and active in the order. His death occurred on his farm.

Mr. and Mrs. Odell lived in Oblong Township for eighteen years, where he became the owner of 140 acres of land, besides 160 acres in Jasper County, all of which he improved and cultivated. In 1872 he retired from the farm and moved to Oblong, where he opened a general store, and for two years operated the only store in that place. In 1874 he embarked in the hotel business, opening the Oblong House, which he conducted until his death, and under his management this became a very well known and popular hostelry. A strong Democrat, he was much interested in local affairs and made his influence felt for good. Mr. and. Mrs. Odell had children as follows: Arminta, Emma Minor, William Washington (deceased), Agnes Johnson, Pearl Sheets and Dallas T. Odell, all born and reared in Oblong Township.

OLWIN, Judge J. C., attorney-at-law, and Judge of the Crawford County Court, now deceased, was born December 6, 1838, in Montgomery County, Ohio, and brought up on the farm, receiving a good, common school education. In 1860 he commenced studying law in Dayton, matriculating in 1862 in the Ohio State and Union Law School at Cleveland, and in 1863 came to Crawford County, for one term teaching school near Palestine. He then settled in Robinson and entered into active practice. Judge Olwin became very prominent as a Republican and was elected to the Thirty-second General Assembly, his term expiring in 1882, and he rendered such efficient service that the same fall he was elected County Judge, also served as Master-in-Chancery for four years. Judge Olwin married January 4, 1866, Amelia A. Tobey, of Montgomery County, Ohio, and they had a family as follows: Harry, Claudia E., Ora M., Tobey, Beulah and Jessie. Judge Olwin's popularity in a Democratic county is sufficient testimony to his unswerving loyalty to duty and his ability as a member of Bar aud Bench.

OLWIN, John. - Some of the most beautiful homes in Robinson, Crawford County, Ill., are occupied by men who have retired from the battles of business life and yet keep up their interest in civic affairs. Among them is John Olwin, who was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, fifteen miles west of Dayton, December 5, 1838. Shortly after his birth the family removed to Darke County, Ohio, and here he grew to manhood on a farm, helping clear off the timber and assisting his parents, David and Nancy (Graybill) Olwin, natives of Pennsylvania and Virginia, respectively, and both of German extraction. Both died in Ohio, where they had become successful in agricultural life.

John Olwin received the usual common school education of his time and locality, and at the outbreak of the Civil War in April, 1861, enlisted for three months in the Eleventh Regiment, Ohio, Infantry. He was sent to Camp Chase, Ohio, and from there to camp in a wheatfield near Cincinnati, known as Camp Dennison. The regiment established itself there and before thé men were properly trained the three months had expired. Mr. Olwin returned to his farm life, but the spirit of patriotism was still strong in him and in June, 1862, he enlisted in Company G, Forty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry for a period of three years or during the war. The regiment was attached to the Army of the Potomae and taken through Kentucky, Tennessee and North Carolina. During his long service, Mr. Olwin participated in many engagements, including the Siege of Knoxville, a raid on the Cumberland, the raid to destroy Louden Bridge near Knoxville, and here many were captured while climbing the mountain. .Mr. Olwin was among these unfortunates, and was sent to Libby Prison where he was kept six months and then exchanged. He immediately rejoined his regiment at Knoxville, and was then transferred io the One Hundred and Fourth Ohio Vounteer Infantry. Soon after his transfer, however, Mr. Olwin was placed on detached duty in the commissary department, where he remained until June, 1865, when he was mustered out. While in the department he had charge of the Post Bakery.

after he paid him a visit he decided to remain in Crawford County with his cousin, Fred Ernest, also from Ohio, and they opened and operated a furniture store at Hutsonville on the Wabash River. Soon thereafter, they sold to J. A. Parker and Mr. Olwin entered the employ of the new proprietor, remaining as salesman for a year, when occurred his marriage. In the fall of 186%, Mr. Olwin became a partner of his father-in-law, J. B. Hurst, in a general store under the nome of Hurst & Olwin, with Mr. Olwin in charge. He soon induced Mr. Hurst to add a grain business to their undertaking. Still later, the business was enlarged to include hardware, and the success that followed was highly satisfactory. For seventeen years this association continued, when Mr. Hurst retired and his sons, W. B. and L. C. Hurst, assumed his interest. In 1883 Mr. Olwin sold his interests to his partners, W. B. and L. C. Hurst, and coming to Robinson entered into partnership with H. O. Wilkin in the dry-goods business, but a year later the stock was divided and each member embarked alone. At this time the John OIwin & Company firm was started, and continued for sixteen years, or until 1903, the partners being members of his family. The present location of the Farmers' and Producers' Bank, on the corner of North Cross and Main Streets, was the site of his old place of business. He carried a line of general merchandise and enjoyed a very large trade. Mr. Olwin erected a big elevator in 1895 on the Big Four Railroad and continued to operate it. In 1903 he disposed of his drygoods business, in that year buying the stock of goods owned by the Estate of J. C. Alexander, which was soon reduced to an exclusive shoehouse, the only one in the county, which is now owned and operated by Mr. Olwin's son, O. G. Olwin. In December, 1906, in conjunction with W. B. Hiteshew and others, Mr. Olwin organized the Farmers' and Producers' Bank, with himself as Vice-President and director. The affairs of the bank are in a flourishing condition, with deposits of over $400,000.

For the past twenty-four years Mr. Olwin lived in the comfortable home on West Main Street which he erected in 1884, but has recently sold this place and erected a more modern dwelling. In 1874 he met with a serious loss when his building and stock were completely de-- stroyed by fire, but the firm reopened business at another stand, and soon after the firm erected a new building of their own.

Few men are more stanch in their support of the Republiean party than Mr. Olwin, and he prides himself upon having cast his first vote for Abraham Lincoln in 1860. Mr. Olwin is deeply interested in civic and county affairs, and can always be counted upon to give his support to whatever measures he believes will conserve the best interests of the community. For forty years he has been a member of the Masonic order at Hutsonville and for years was its Worshipful Master.

merchant of Hutsonville, where she was born and reared, she being then twenty years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Olwin have had the following children: Charles H., a commercial salesman of Robinson; Lola, died at twenty, was an artist of unusual ability, and was decorating the house in pastel and water colors when her death suddenly occurred; Georgia G., wife of William C. Swartz, of Danville, an osteopath ; Ocie G., now proprietor of the Olwin shoe store; Fred B., a dentist of Hammond, Ind.; Byrd G., a commercial salesman of Robinson; Clara B., wite of W. Russell Hodge, a bookkeeper of Marshall, Ill.; Nan B., wife of Leslie G. Palmer, a clothier of Robinson, and Lois B., wife of S. S. Spencer, a commercial salesman of Williamsport, Pa.

OLWIN, Ocie Gordon. - Of good judgment and high purpose in life, Ocie Gordon Olwin's years have been busy ones, and he has succeeded in building up a very fine trade and in becoming one of the leading merchants of Robinson. Mr. Olwin was born in Hutsonville, Crawford County, Ill., February 1, 1873, the son of John and Rebecca Florence Olwin, the former born in Darke County, Ohio. December 5, 1838, and the latter born in Crawford County, Ill., May 23, 1846. John Olwin is a retired merchant of Robinson. Ocie G. Olwin began attending school in Hutsonvile when only five years old and when the family located in Robinson he continued his studies until seventeen, when he entered his father's store as a clerk. After two years there, he attended the Parsons Horological School for watchmakers for one year. In 1892 he located in Albion, IlL, in the jewelry business, then returning to Robinson, worked for his father. Once more he left home, this time to engage as a traveling salesman for a queensware house of Indianapolis. After one year with that firm, he engaged with Barker, Brown & Co. of Hüntington, Ind., manufacturers of shoes, and remained with them for five years, thoroughly learning the business in all its practical details. In March, 1907, in partnership with his father and brother he purchased an extensive stock of dry-goods and Shoes and opened his large quarters. In June of the same year, Mr. Olwin bought out the interests of his father and brother, and sold out the dry-goods, so that in October, 1907, he opened the only exclusive shoe-store in Crawford County, and enjoys a very large patronage, while his business shows a healthy increase.

On October 6, 1897, Mr. Olwin married Miss Daisy Endsley, born in Westfield. Ill, and one child, Clotilde Florence, was born to them March 31, 1899. Mr. Olwin is a Republican in politics, and fraternally was initiated as a member of the Knights of Pythias, in 1896, the Modern Woodmen in 1904, the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks in 1906, and became a Mason at Robinson, Ill., in 1906.

Mr. and Mrs. Olwin are engaged in erecting one of the most beautiful homes in Robinson, thoroughly equipped with every modern appliance and with conveniences without number, and pleasantly located on South Cross Street.

His thorough knowledge of his business, and good business sense have gained him a fair share of this world's goods. Strict honesty in business dealings. loyalty to his friends and the deepest love for his family have made a record which all who know him may well envy, and which has established him among the popular and progressive young men of Robinson.

OTEY, E. M.,; who has been so prominently identified with much of the building operations of Robinson, and, as a member of the firm of Otey & Son, has operated a large planing mill here, was born in Palestine, Ill., in March, 1831. Learning his trade in Terre Haute, Ind. Mr. Otey returned to Crawford County, where the most of his work has been done. -Mr. Otey accumulated considerable property during his business life, including an excellent farm and some valuable town residences. December 20, 1854, Mr. Otey was married in Terre Haute, Ind., to Mary C. Hebb, and they have had four children: Harry E., Rose, Clifford E. and Helen.

OVERSTREET, Frederick A. - To faithfully discharge the duties of any public office shows reliability of character and decided energy. As distributor of mails in the postoffice at Robinson, Ill, Frederick A. Overstreet shows the same scrupulous care that has characterized him: ever since he started out to earn his own living, and those who recognize his excellent qualities know that he is devoted to the interests of the public. Mr. Overstreet was born five miles northeast of Oblong, Crawford, County, Ill, October 9, 1886, a son of John Roland Overstreet, who came from Kentucky. His wife, whose maiden name was Harriet Louise Larrabee, was born near Oblong, and died in Robinson.

Frederick A. Overstreet attended the Robinson High School and also the Peoria Polytechnic School. and held responsible positions in the jewelry establishments of Mr. Swern in 1906, and Mr. Seitz in 1906-07, respectively. His appointment to the postoffice was made October 9, 1907, and was received favorably by all who knew the young man. In politics he is a very active Republican, and contributes generously towards the support of the Methodist Church, of which his wife is a member. Fraternally he is a member of the Order of Red Men.

On March 25, 1908, Mr. Overstreet married Orabelle Dodge, daughter of W. E. Dodge, Superintendent of the Warren Machine Company of Robinson. Mrs. Overstreet was born at Cooper Tract, Pa., March 22, 1892. Mr. and Mrs. Overstreet have a beautiful home on Madison Avenue, Robinson, where they welcome their many friends with delightful hospitality.

PARKER, George (deceased), for many years one of the successful farmers of Honey Creek Township, was born in 1812 near Four Mile Creek, which runs through Butler County, Ohio, a son of Samuel Parker. The latter was born in Kentucky in 1782, and moved to Ohio in an early day, and to Illinois in 1819. In Kentucky

Parker's boyhood days were spent assisting his father, and securing what education the subscription schools afforded. Early in life he joined the Missionary Baptist Church and preached in various places throughout the county. His first marriage occurred when he was united to Pattie Henry, by whom he had these children: Annie, William, Eliza J., John, Henry, Julia, Sarah A., Washington, LaFayette and Barbara A. His second wife was Mrs. Jane Monroe. On the paternal side of the house, the ancestors were English, while on the maternal side they were Dutch.

PARKER, George N. - Eminently successful as a lawyer and business man, prominent in local, county and State polities, and possessing large legal knowledge, wide experience, the judicial temperament, unsullied integrity and a high sense of honor, George N. Parker is one of the leading representatives of his profession in Crawford County, having resided in Robinson since boyhood. Mr.-Parker is a native of the county, having been born within its limits April 9, 1843, a son of Samuel and Emeline (Lanham) Parker, the former of whom was a native of Miami Township. Butler County, Ohio, and the latter born in Clinton County, Ia. Samuel Parker, with his father, Jonathan, came to Illinois before it was admitted to the Union in 1818, and there Jonathan Parker died near Flat Rock, Crawford County.

As his father was a farmer, George N. Parker early was accustomed to work upon the farm, and attended the district school in his vicinity, following this later by a course in Palestine Academy, then attending the Union Christian College, finally finishing at the University of Michigan. On October 4, 1866, the family moved to Robinson, where Mr. Parker has since resided. Returning to Robinson from the University of Michigan. he taught school and was honored: by election to the office of County Superintendent of Schools of Crawford County. which he efficiently filled until 1869, Having in the meanwhile taken up the study of law, Mr. Parker was admitted to practice in the State Courts in June, 1870, and in 1879 was admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of the United States, and was engaged as attorney for the construction of the Indianapolis Southern Railroad. Mr. Parker is a member of the Chamber of Commerce of Robinson, is a Director in the Terre Haute, Robinson, Olney and Mt. Vernon Railroad, and is largely interested in many other enterprises which he has assisted in organizing. an attorney he has been associated with some of the most eminent members of his profession in the country, and his ability and enviable reputation for upholding all that is highest and best In his profession are unexcelled. $ there being no issue. Mrs. Parker is an honorary member of the Society of Ben Hur, and is a member of the Dickens Literary Club; is also a consistent member of the Presbyterian Church and a cultured, charming lady who presides over her home with gracious hospitality. Mr. Parker is connected with the Modern Woodmen, Society of Ben Hur and the order.of Modern America. All his life he has been a Democrat from principle and has been very active in politics, serving four years on the Democratic State Central Committee, and for twelve years was Chairman of the Democratic County Central Committee. In 1908 he was sent as delegate to the Democratic National Convention at Denver which nominated Bryan and Kern. Mr. Parker's influence on publie men and publie events has been exerted in many ways, and always for ultimate good. Powerful from dignity of character and wisdom, he is much more than a great lawyer; is one of the great citizens of Crawford County, and he is engaged in the great work of making history.

PARKER, George Washington. - The ranks of the veterans of the Civil War are thinning, and each year the number of the survivors grows fewer. Among those who fought for the preservation of the Union, and also contended with the disadvantages of private life when Crawford County was still in a partially undeveloped state, was the late George W. Parker, who was a farmer and stockman on Section 28, Honey Creek Township, Crawford County. where he was born December 25, 1842. He was a son of Newman Parker, a pioneer of Crawford County. Newman Parker came to the county when a boy and here grew to manhood. Entering a large amount of land, he cleared it off and placed it in a state of high cultivation. He married Maria Attaway, a member of a pioneer family. Later Newman Parker participated in the Black Hawk War, and was a very prominent man of his time. |

After receiving as good an education as the schools of his times afforded, George W. Parker worked with his father, and as he was the fourth child in a family of fifteen, there was plenty for him to do. When he attained his majority his father gave him 80 acres of land in the woods, and he cleared a portion and then sold it. Later he bought 101 acres which forms the family home. This he also cleared to a large extent, and he worked hard to get it in good shape. In 1861 he inlisted in Company H, Eleventh Regiment, Missouri Volunteer Infantry, in which he Served for three years, returning home at the close of the war, when he moved his family to Lawrence County, where he owned and cleared 80 acres of land, but eventually sold this and came back to his former home in Honey Creek Township. ,

On February 18, 1863, Mr. Parker married Sarah Jane Lewis, born in La Motte Township, October 25, 1846, a daughter of the late Samuel Lewis, a farmer and stock-raiser of La Motte Township, who came to Crawford County with his father, Samuel Lewis, from their native State,

North Carolina. Samuel, Sr., was a soldier of the Black Hawk War, and also a farmer and early settler of La Motte Township, where he owned and cleared a large tract of land. Samuel Lewis, Jr., who was the eldest child of the family, was reared in La Motte Township, and there married Ellen Garrard, who was born in Crawford County, Ill, a daughter of Jacob and Susan Garrard, who settled in Martin Township and became extensive landowners there, clearing off a large tract and placing it under cultivation. Mrs. Parker is the eldest in her father's family, which was as follows: Sarah Jane, Lucy (deceased), Palmer (deceased), Rosie, Ella, Samuel, Emma - all born in La Motte Township, where Mr. Lewis bought a farm and brought it into a high state of cultivation. Mr. and Mrs. Lewis died at Robinson. He was a Republican and he and his wife were members of the Methodist Church.

Mr. and Mrs. Parker had the following family: Maria J., born April 11, 1864; John H., born April 18, 1866; Lucy E., born April 26, 1868; Cora E., born October 7, 1871; Dessie A., born July 13,1874; Myrtle N., born February 2, 1877; Hallie M., born December 25, 1879; Millard A., born September 23, 1882; G. F., born September 5, 1886, and one who died in infancy. Three were born in Lawrence County, and the remainder in Crawford County. Mr. Parker was a Republican and a member of the G. A. R. His death occurred May 20, 1887, when he was in his forty-third year. Mr. Parker was a man who did much for his township, although more as a private individual than as a publie official. He erected a comfortable home, a good barn and all other buildings appertaining to a first-class modern homestead. His fields were well laid off for the growing of grain and for pasturage, and the fences were substantially built and kept in good repair. In his business transactions he was upright and far-seeing. and in his home he was the wise and tender husband and father. In his demise the neighborhood lost one of its best and most reliable citizens.

PARKER, Henry. - Those who have been born on Illinois soil have a love for the State not possessed by those who come to it, and this is especially true of the farmer who gains his living from the soil, and who learns to know all its possibilities and true value. Henry Parker of Section 15, Honey Creek Township, Crawford County, was born on his present farm March 23, 1840, a son of William Parker. The Parker family is a numerous one, and its representatives are to be found throughout the State, especially this county, and they are associated with various lines of industry. ;

Henry Parker remembers well the primitive log schoolhouse in which he received his education, as well as the many hardships the family endured in those early days in the history of the county. Remaining at home until his father's death, he later rented 60 acres of the original homestead, and began to develop and cultivate the land which he had helped his father clear.

On October 16, 1860, he married Mary Allison, a native of Lawrence County, Ill, who was brought to Crawford County by her parents when eleven years old. She is a daughter of Harvey Allison, now deceased, who was for a number ot years a farmer of Honey Creek Township. He Spent five years in California prospecting for gold, going there overland and returning by water. After his return he remained for a time in Crawford County, but later went to Texas, where his death occurred. Mrs. Parker is the eldest of four children, of whom one was born in Honey Creek Township, and all educated in the district school. The mother, Elizabeth (Parker) Allison, was born and reared in Crawford County, but died prior to her husband, who married againin Texas and had four children by his second marriage. The children by his first marriage were: Mary, Alvira, Redman and Eliza Dew. By his second marriage the children born were: Harry, Ambrose, William and Ambresia.

After his marriage Mr. Parker settled on 80 acres of the old homestead to which he has added until he now owns 260 acres of as, good land as is to be found in Crawford County, nearly all of which he has cleared, and made all improvements. This land is devoted to general farming and stock-raising, and he has operated a threshing machine for a:number of years. Mr. Parker also has a saw-mill ón his property which he operates, and in all of his enterprises he is successful, being a good manager and excellent business man.

Mr. and Mrs. Parker have had children as follows: Valmore, Eliza, Ellen, Sarah E. (deceased), George, Harvey, Albert, Anna (deceased), and Millie and Estella (twins), all born in Honey Creek Township. Mr. Parker is a Democrat and for six years was Township Supervisor. In 1905 oil was discovered on his premises and he now has twenty-five wells in active operation. In fraternal relations he is a Mason, and for forty years has been a member of the Missionary Baptist Church.

PARKER, Lafayette . - The young men of today are revolutionizing farming by applying scientifie methods to their work, just as their brothers are in other lines of commercial and industrial activity. No longer do they till the soil and raise their cattle in a hit or miss way. Each task is done with reference to a carefully laid plan, and as a result the land is made to yield manifold crops that were the result of the labors of their ancestors. Lafayette Parker is one of these representative young farmers of Crawford County, conveniently located on Section 11, Honey Creek, where he was born March 6, 1854, the youngest son of George Parker, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work.

Mr. Parker attended school in the little log schoolhouse of the neighborhood, and helped to clear the land his father owned, thus passing his boyhood usefully. When his father died he was the owner of 120 acres, the greater portion of which he cleared and upon which he had made allimprovements. He built his home, barns and other outbuildings, and put up the fences. Here he has carried on genera] farming and stockraising, carrying a good grade of horses. To his 120 acres he has added 20 acres, and his wife owns 251% acres, nearly all improved. Three oil wells are in active operation on his ,place, and this has rendered his property all the more valuable.

Mr. Parker married Mary Jane Richards, who was born, reared, educated and married in Lawrence County, ona farm. Five children were born of this marriage: Jesse W.; Ota, deceased, and three who died in infancy, all born on his present farm. Mrs. Parker died and later he married Martha A. Ford, who was born in Honey Creek Township, the daughter of Warner Ford, now deceased, who was a farmer of Honey Creek Township, also reared in Crawford County, his father being one of its pioneers. Mr. and Mrs. Parker have had no children. Mr. Parker has always been a Democrat and also taken an active part in the affairs of the Masonic fraternity. He and his wife are members of the Missionary: Baptist Church.

PARKER, Washington. - The Parker family is closely associated with the pioneer history of Crawford County, and its members have largely assisted in its development and improvement. When the family was located in this County the land was either timber, brush or swamp land, and practically worthless until hard work and skillful management had changed it into the many fertile farms and prosperous cities it contains. The children of these pioneers endured as much as their elders, and are now reaping the benefits. Washington Parker, a farmer and stock-raiser of Honey Creek Township, located on Section 3, was born in that Township, January 15, 1852. He is a son of the pioneer George Parker, now deceased, who was a farmer of Honey Creek Township, born in Butler County, Ohio, March 20, 1812. When about six years of age he came to Honey Creek Township with his father, Jonathan Parker, now deceased, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this work.