Franklin County, Illinois - The whole text, 1920 (part 6 of 8)

The bank opened for business on April 1 7, 1902. The first officers were J. T. Chenault, president; W. W. McFall, vice-president and G. C. Cantrell, cashier. The first board of directors consisted of five members - J. T. Chenault, W. W. McFall, S. W. Swain, H. C. Vise and J. F. Ammon. The original capital stock was $25,000.00. The first published statement of condition was made when the bank was thirteen days old and showed deposits of $9,894.41 . On April 2, 1903, the capital was increased to $40,000.00. In January, 1914, the capital was again increased, making the capital stock $50,000.00, at which point it remained until Nov. 15, 1918, when it was increased in the sum of $50,000.00, making the total capital $100,- 000.00. Up to July 1, 1918, the institution had paid to its stockholders the sum of $68,250.00 in dividends, besides placing $50,000.00 to the surplus account and $5,581.33 to undivided profits. At the time of the last increase of capital the shareholders paid in for 500 shares at the rate of $250 per share, or $125,000.00. Of this $50,000.00 was placed to capital; $50,000.00 to surplus, and $25,000.00 to undivided profits, raising the capital to $100,000.00; surplus to $100,- 000.00, and undivided profits to about $35,000.00, making it the largest bank in point of capital and surplus in this part of state. At the time of the last published statement the total resources were $1,375- 1 96.62. The present officers of the bank are: W. W. McFall, president; G. C. Cantrell and J. L. Ohle, vice-president; Geo. A. Powers, cashier; F. E. Goodin and H. W. Nolen, assistant cashier. The board of directors is composed of the following: W. W. McFall, Jesse Dimond, J. L. Ohle, A. L. Eskew, E. B. Nolen, Walter W. Williams, D. M. Parkhill, H. M. Rea, G. C. Cantrell and Geo. A. Powers.

The history of this bank would be incomplete without a more complete mention of Geo. C. Cantrell, who has been identified with the growth of the bank since its organization. Mr. Cantrell is a native of Benton, son of T. B. and Euphenia (Newman) Cantrell, the father being one of the pioneer merchants of Benton. Mr. Cantrell in early life learned the printing business, clerked in his father's store and later was business manager of the Benton Standard, the firm at that time known as Brownlee & Cantrell. After the fire destroying the plant of the Standard, he entered the hardware business and upon the organization of the First National Bank became the cashier and acted in that capacity until 1919 when he was elected vice-president. He was married Jan. 31, 1894, to Miss Maud McFall. Mr. and Mrs. Cantrell are the parents of two children: Margaret, born Mch. 17, 1895, and Robert, born Aug. 25, 1899. Mr. Cantrell is a Mason, Elk and Modern Woodman.

THE activities of the newspapers of Franklin belong almost as much to the war history of the county as any other one thing, and The Benton Republican occupies a most prominent place, inasmuch as it was the first and only paper to publish a complete list of the draft, and its files will ever be a complete record of that.

The editor and publisher is Harry L. Frier, who purchased the plant nearly 23 years ago. He was born and reared in Shawneetown, his parents being Judge and Mrs. N. A. Frier, now of Benton.

At the age of 1 3 years he entered the office of L. F. Tromly, one of the real newspaper men of the state, with whom he spent 1 5 years in the various capacities from printer's devil to associate editor in the cities of Shawneetown, 111., St. Louis and Poplar Bluff, Mo. The paper is Republican in politics, the editor having been partially compensated for party work by serving two terms each as postmaster and Master-in- Chancery.

In 1898 he wedded Miss Mollie Chapman of McLeansboro. She has been of material assistance, and during the Victory Loan campaign represented the paper in conferences in St. Louis.

To this union were born three daughters and a son. The eldest, Pauline, will graduate from the University of Illinois this year as a language teacher. She assists in the office during vacation, having taken a course in journalism. The second, Pearl, will graduate next year from the same institution as a teacher of home economics. Florence will finish the Benton Township High School this year, and the son, Wendell, in the class of '23.

Few offices have a better record in long, faithful and efficient service of their employes. The foreman, Dan H. Ross, and the linotype operator, Paul R. Lyon, have been with the paper, seemingly, so long that the memory of man runneth not to the contrary.

A SUCCESSFUL and high -class photographic studio must be managed and directed by one who is especially qualified to solve the many perplexing problems which are constantly arising to satisfy a critical public. The most successful studio ever established in Benton is the present studio of 0. H. Machiels, who has shown himself an expert in this line of business. He was born in Blue Mound, March 9, 1881 , son of Herman and Helen Machiels, his father being a harness and implement merchant. Our subject left home at the early age of fourteen and went to Ohio to live with an uncle and was at once apprenticed in a studio. He later worked in Hamilton, Ohio, and in 1900 when only nineteen years of age established a studio at Wellburgh, West Virginia, which he conducted for two years. He then went to work for Schiller & Company at St. Louis, dealers in photographic supplies.

On March 12, 1902, at Decatur, Illinois, occured the marriage of H. O. Machiels to Miss Virgie L. Allen. Mr. and Mrs. Machiels are the parents of three children, Helen, born 1903; Ralph, born January, 1905, deceased at six months, and Lucile, born 1 908.

Mr. Machiels came to Benton in May, 1914, purchasing the only photographic studio and immediately built it up until at the present time it is conceded to be the largest studio in southern Illinois.

The principal assistant of Mr. Machiels is Harry Brandt who came from Lincoln, Nebraska. He is a world war veteran, being attached to the 89th Aero, a photographic division, serving overseas for eighteen months.

IN the year 1875, William R. Ward and Capt. Carroll Moore were engaged in the business of merchandising in the village of Benton, whose population then was less than six hundred. This business was conducted under the firm name of Ward & Moore, on the south side of the public square. The need being felt for a bank in this community, the Exchange Bank of Ward & Moore was formed and was given a corner in the rear of the store for the purpose of receiving deposits and loaning money. This was the first enterprise of this kind in the County, and as money was very scarce here in those days, it required a great deal of time and effort to accumulate total deposits of $50,000.00.

This little institution filled a much needed want, and it was continuously operated by the same management until 1883, when Ward & Moore sold their merchandising business, and the little bank was then removed into a home of its own on the south side of the public square. It was opened for business daily under the management of its founders, Ward & Moore. On January 2nd, 1898, the bank was incorporated under the laws of the State. The following are the first and last official statements of the condition of the bank at the call of the Auditor of Public Accounts:

Carl Burkhart, cashier. In 1905, Mr. Ward died, and Carroll Moore was elected president, and Robert R. Ward, son of William R. Ward, was made vice-president. Carl Burkhart, cashier, and William C. Ludwig, vice-president, have been connected with this institution for more than twenty- two years. In 1919, Carroll Moore resigned as president and Robert R. Ward was made his successor. The directorate, Robert R. Ward, Carroll Moore, W. B. Blake, R. D. Kirkpatrick, J. M. Seymour, W. W. McCreery, W. B. Martin, C. H. Miller, F. H. Stamper, W. E. Moore and Carl Burkhart, has been unchanged for many years, and individually the directors have been identified with practically every large industry in the city. This bank has marked the opening of its nineteen neighbors and noted the deposits of the County rise from $77,000.00 to approximately $15,000,000.00.

Its liberal policy to its friends and customers, and the years of banking experience has made this bank one of the leading in southern Illinois.

THE newspaper fraternity has many examples of progressive and earnest men who by their own efforts advanced themselves in their chosen profession to the point where they are honored by appointments of a political nature for the services they have rendered their party and community. Such a man is Arley E. Martin, editor and publisher of the Benton Standard and postmaster since 1913, who from the beginning of his career has displayed qualities of tact, integrity and business sagacity which have been guarantees of a successful future to all who have noted his daily life. He is a splendid example of the self-made and self - educated man - winning noteworthy success in life through his own efforts, meeting and surmounting every obstacle intelligently and courageously.

Mr. Martin comes from one of the pioneer families o f Franklin county, being born in a log cabin near the present Franklin county fair grounds, the son of Andrew and Melvina (Jones) Martin, who, soon after the birth of our subject, moved to Benton and entered the mercantile business. A limited grade school education in the Benton public schools was the only educational foundation for a start in life, as it was his desire to begin active business as early as possible. Until twenty years of age, he was a valuable assistant to his father in the store. Desiring to enter other fields he chose the newspaper profession, purchasing a half interest in the Franklin County Independent. He at once began to build the foundation of a successfu' newspaper career by learning the mechanical end of the profession, gradually developing the technique of all branches.

believed himself capable of editing and publishing the paper and purchased his partner's, J. S. Barr's interest. In 1908 he purchased the subscription list of the Benton Standard, the plant of which had burned, consolidating both papers under the name of the Benton Standard, his work and field rapidly increased. As the Standard was the official paper of the Democratic organization of the county, considerable prestige was gained by the consolidation.

Mr. Martin has always been one of the active leaders of the Democratic party in Franklin county and in 1 908 was elected to the the chairmanship of the county central committee.

In 1916 he completed the present home of the Benton Standard, on East Main street, and has a splendidly equipped job and newspaper plant, which is under the foremanship of Arch Johnson, while Mr. Martin continues the editorship. The popularity of the Benton Standard is proven by the large circulation and advertising patronage enjoyed.

On April II, 1900, Mr. Martin was united in marriage to Miss Laura E. Martin, daughter of John D. Martin, a former postmaster at Madisonville, Ky. Mr. and Mrs. Martin are the parents of an only son, A. E. jr., who was born Sept. 4, 1901, now an assistant at the postoffice.

The dissemination of news, the discussion of public questions and the promotion of the general welfare of his community through the columns of his paper, have constituted Mr. Martin's life's object as a private citizen, both to his city and his county. These have been no less important and earnest than the seven years he has now served the public through the Benton postoffice, which mark him as one of the influential and prominent citizens of Franklin county.

FORTY years ago, W. L. Eskew, a pioneer of Franklin county, started a little lumber yard, locating same on Webster avenue, just west of the Webster School, two years later moving to 209 South Main street. This lumber business grew very rapidly, and on December 16, 1913, the W. L. Eskew Lumber Co. was incorporated with C. H. Miller, president; Carl Burkhart, secretary and treasurer and J. A. Summers, manager. In 1918, the present fine brick building was completed where considerable of the most important and expensive lumber, building material and hardware is housed.

Mr. Summers has been identified with this institution since 1908, when he entered the employ of W. L. Eskew. Previously to entering the retail lumber business the experience of Mr. Summers had been such as to unquestionably qualify him for his present position - a farmer boy until 1 8 years of age and then working in the saw mills and timber lands of Arkansas. Four years of working in the lumber and timber in its natural and semi-finished state, gave Mr. Summers probably the best knowledge of lumber of any lumberman in this county. In 1902, he took up the trade of carpentry and continued in this capacity until he accepted the position with Mr. Eskew as above stated.

The business of the W. L. Eskew Lumber Co. is continuously growing and builders will find it to their advantage to investigate both their large stock of lumber and building material.

THE organization of the Mercantile Bank & Trust Company is the result of the rapid growth of Benton and community, and therefore the need of greater banking facilities which would attract additional capital to Benton. The bank was organized in 1912 as a State bank, with a capital of $25,000. The original officers and incorporators being J. T. Chenault, who was president and cashier, and A. L. Cleveland, vice-president. In 1914, the capital was increased to $50,000, and N. S. Helm, the present cashier, became identified with the institution. Mr. Chenault was president until 1915, when A. L. Cleveland was elected president and was active in the affairs of the bank until he retired in 1919, A. N.Webb being elected to fill the office.

Total Resources

It will be seen from the above dates that the bank has prospered under the direction of the present cashier, N. S. Helm, who is a practical banking official and business man of experience. He was born Sept. 27, 1872, the son of a prominent farmer of Marion county. He was a school teacher from 1895 to 1901 and then entered the business world as salesman for the International Harvester Co., which position he retained for five years. It was during his trips to North Dakota that he decided to open a bank in Streeter, N. Dak., which he did in 1916, becoming cashier and later vice-president until 1910, when he decided to return to his native state, but still retained his interest there. From 1910 to 1912 he was cashier and manager of the bank at Mill Shoals, from which place he came to Benton. Mr. Helm was married July 28, 1907 to Miss Lucy Alvis, daughter of E. J. Alvis, a retired farmer and president of the Citizens Bank of Kell. Mr. and Mrs. Helm are the parents of two children: Mary Eleanor and John Edmund. He is a Royal Arch Mason, Modern Woodman and Odd Fellow. They are popular citizens, taking an active interest in all welfare and church work.

Rais

MOST communities have their example of self made business men, who by their close attention to business, learning it from the ground up have advanced step by step until conspicuous in the business world. Such a man in Benton is W. E. Campbell, who was reared on a farm in Williamson county near Marion, and lived the average life of a farmer boy until twenty-one years iture, making his store a complete home outfitting market where the best or medium priced home furnishings can be secured at the right price.

of age, and then taught school for one year. Although receiving only the education of a district school, by thoroughly mastering it he was able to pass the school examination with the highest grade of the county at that time. Ambitious to enter the businesss world, he began as a clerk in his uncles' store, J. N. & W. H. Campbell, at Marion, receiving a salary of two dollars a week and board. Six years later finds him half partner in the business, obtained on credit, and then six years of successful business under the name of Lewis & Campbell, when Mr. Lewis sold his interest to our subject's father. Eighteen months later they sold out and after a rest of ten months, Feb. 10, 1913, finding an opportune opening in Benton purchased the hardware business of Fritzgerrell Bros. Since this purchase, Mr. Campbell has built up a wonderful business, adding, in 1917, a fine line of furnthat guarantee a steady growth. Upon entering either the furniture or hardware stores, the prospective customer at once realizes that he has entered a store controlled by a modern business man who will treat him with the courtesy and respect due - begetting a confidence that insures a sale from the large and varied stock and a pleased customer.

Flora E.Burkitt

THE pioneer abstracters of Franklin county were C. C. Payne and W. H. Williams, doing business under the firm name of Payne & Williams. They began making abstracts some time prior to 1 869. Payne & Williams sold their abstract books to James F. Mason, who continued in the abstract business until his death. M. J. Mason succeeded his father. M. J. Mason sold a one-half interest to Fred C Pulliam and the firm was called Mason & Pulliam. Pulliam sold back to Mason and in a short time thereafter Mason sold to W. F. Dillon and J. M. Joplin and the firm name became Dillon & Joplin. About the year 1902, Dillon sold his half interest to W. F. Spiller and the firm name was changed to Joplin & Spiller. The next abstracters after Payne & Williams were John Mulkey and Henry Hudson who began to make abstracts about the year 1870. Mr. Mulkey was circuit clerk and Hudson his deputy. They had no abstract books but made abstracts from the indexes in the circuit clerk's office. Hudson making the abstracts and Mulkey certifying to them as circuit clerk. Mr. Mulkey soon retired from the abstract business and Mr. Hudson opened up an office about 1875 and continued in the business alone until about the year 1905, when he formed a partnership with C. W. Stilley under the firm name of Hudson & Stilley.

R. H. Flannigan began making abstracts about the year 1876, using a tract index, which he made. After making abstracts a few years he sold his tract index to James E. Mason.

I. R. Spilman was the next abstracter to start an office. He made a complete abstract book a little diffeient from any that had been made. He sold out to R. R. Webb and T. M. Webb and the firm was called Webb & Webb. A. L. Mayfield of Decatur bought a half interest in the firm and it was then called Webb & Mayfield. W. F. Dillon purchased the interest of the Webbs and the firm name was changed to Dillon & Mayfield. Mayfield sold to W. W. McCreery and the firm was then known as Dillon & McCreery. McCreery sold to J. M. Joplin. Dillon & Joplin now owned all of the abstract books in the county, except the tract index

The abstracters now were Joplin & Spiller and Henry Hudson. Hudson sold a one-half interest in his office to C. W. Stilley and about the same time W. F. Burkitt made a tract index and opened an abstract office, in 1905, which was called Burkitt's Abstract Office.

About the year 1909, W. F. Burkitt and C. W. Stilley bought out Joplin & Spiller and the firm of Burkit 's Abstract Office and Joplin & Spiller were consolidated under the firm name of Burkitt & Stilley. Mr. Stilley retiring from the firm of Hudson & Stilley. A short time thereafter, Stilley sold his interest to Burkitt. Stilley then formed another partnership with Hudson.

About the year 1913, George B Holmes and Harold S. Campbell made a card index and opened up an abstract office. Holmes bought out Campbell and incorporated under the name of the Franklin County Abstract Co. The Franklin County Abstract Co. sold to J. J Hill and Hill to C. W. and Perry Stilley. The Franklin County Abstract Co. and the firm of Hudson & Stilley consolidated and the firm was called the Franklin County Abstract Co.

I n October, 1 9 1 6, H. E. Kimmel of DuQuoin, bought out the Franklin County Abstract Co. He and W. F. Burkitt, the owner of Burkitt's Abstract Office, consolidated and incorporated for $20,000.00 under the name of Burkitt-Kimmel Abstract Co.

This Company now owned all the abstract books and card indexes in Franklin county, having the Payne & Williams' books, Flannigan's Tract Index, Spilman's book, Hudson and Burkitt's Tract Index, and the Franklin County Abstract Company's card index and had the largest plant in the State outside of the large cities.

On November I, 1919, Kimmel sold his interest to W. F. Burkitt, N. S. Helm and S. E. Knowles, but with the consent of Mr. Kimmel the name remained the same.

THE development of a large real estate, insurance and abstract company with large and various connections which entails an instinct for real organization work, is one which will test the capacity of any man. The W B. Martin Co., which is one of the strongest and largest realty and abstract organizations in Southern Illinois is the result of the work of W. B. Martin, who is a native son of Franklin County, born near Benton, April 8, 1872, the son of Andrew and Melvina (Jones) Martin. In early life he had the advantage which most farmer boys have of attending the district schools for a short period in the winter, and assisting on the farm at other times. Later his father moved to Benton and established a grocery store where our subject assisted in the work and attended the Benton public schools, and then after a short experience of working in a clothing store he entered the employ of J. F. Mason where he received the early instructions in the particular business of abstract work. After a few years he entered the employ of Webb & Webb, where his aptitude for this work was given greater scope. In 1893, he formed a partnership with Simeon Moore, under the firm name of Martin & Moore, this firm continued for a few years when Mr. Martin purchased the interest of Mr. Moore and continued in this line of business until January, 1917, when he started the difficult task of making a new set of abstract books. In January, 1918, the present firm of W. B. Martin & Co. was organized. In July, 1920, the company was incorporated with the following officers: W. B. Martin, president; R. R. Ward, treasurer and Mack McCreery, secretary. The charter has been secured for the purpose of buying and selling of real estate, loans, insurance and abstract work.

On May 25, 1898, occurred the marriage of W. B. Martin to Miss Minnie Follis. Mr. and Mrs. Martin are the parents of four children: Chas. A., who died March, 1918; Fay, born April 2, 1901; Ruth, born March 29, 1907. Mr. Martin is a popular and progressive citizen of Benton taking an active part in the affairs of Benton and all affairs for the betterment of the community. He is a director of the Benton State Bank, and interested in other enterprises. Mack McCreery, the other active member of the firm, is a son of Walker McCreery, descendants of the famous McCreery family, mentioned in several places in the historical sections of this book as one of the oldest and most distinguished pioneer families of the county. The McCreerys are representative business men who are financially interested in many industrial instituions of the county - constantly striving to build and increase the industrial activity of their county - few large business enterprises are started in Benton without their guiding hands. Mack McCreery is secretary ot the Benton Chamber of Commerce, and one of the most influential business men of Benton and is a worthy descendant of his honorable sire.

Mack Mccreery

THE amusement and moving picture business of Benton took an advance step early in 1 9 1 8, by the organization of the Benton Amusement Company. This company was organized by Benton people who knew that the show and moving picture business could be put on a high standard of excellency ifthe right stops were taken to create an organization with ample finances to give the public the best attractions. The company was incorporated February 1, 1918, with a capital of $50,000, and immediately began acquiring the leases of theatres of Benton. The first theatre was the Hippodrome, purchased of Geo. Colovas, and later the Opera House lease held by Chas. Bernham. Believing that better pictures and attractions could be secured by having control of a chain of theatres, the company entered the field at Mt. Vernon by buying the Plaza theatre and making of it an expensive and modern theatre building. This building is complete and the interior decorations compete favorably with the metropolitan theatres - equipped with an expensive cooling system and all the latest appliances used in the large show houses. To make their chain of theatres complete in Mt. Vernon they also purchased the leaseholds of Star and Majestic. The company later entered the Salem field by purchasing the Lyric theatre and building and acquiring the lease of the Orpheum- The company operates a chain of seven theatres, and will rapidly build and improve all properties.

The officers of the Benton Amusement Company are: F. D. Whittington, president; R. C. Cluster, vice-president and general manager; W. C. Ludwig, secretary and treasurer. The directors other than the officers are: W. W. McCreery, Mack McCreery, W. B. Martin and J. C. Ludwig.

R. C. Cluster, who came to Benton from Christopher where he had built and operated the Globe theatre, is an experienced theatre man and has been an able director in the operation and perfecting this chain of theatres. The Benton theatres are under his direct management, while the Mt. Vernon theatres are managed by George Newcome, and the Salem enterprises by Lennie Arnett.

Believing that the first requisite to make motion pictures popular is the best machines that eliminate the old time "flicker" which made the pictures difficult for most people, each theatre was equipped with the most modern machines, and also gold fibre screens which add to the beauty of the pictures and comfort of the spectators.

ONE of the distinguished members of the bench of Southern Illinois, and one who has given most extensive service in offices of public trust is Thomas Jefferson Myers, who was born June 28, 1869, on a small farm three miles east of Benton. He comes from southern parentage, his father being from Kentucky and his mother from Tennessee. He was educated in the district schools and the summer normal schools. He began teaching before he reached his 18th birthday, and taught in various parts of the county - Benton, Christopher, Mulkeytown and Akin besides country districts. He entered politics quite young and began public speaking before he reached his majority.

Judge Myers made his first political appearance in the campaign of 1888. He filled the office of township tax assessor several times for the town of Benton, serving his first time at the age of twenty-one years. In the spring of 1 900 he was nominated to the office of states' attorney and was elected in November, serving four years; was elected to the office of County Judge in 1906, in which capacity heservedfouryears. InMay, 191 3,heentered the office of Secretary of State as corporation clerk, serving his full four years and then came back to Benton in the summer of 1917, and was appointed a member of the Franklin County Local Board, in which capacity he served for nineteen months as clerk of the board In the fall of 1917, while yet a member of the Local Board, he was elected to the office of County Judge, being the only Democrat on the Democratic ticket elected. He is serving his second term in that office. Besides being County Judge he is president of The American Mutual Union, of Benton, a mutual protective association organized in September, 1919.

MANY of the native sons of Franklin county and Benton have by their determined and studious efforts become popular professional men, among such is Nealy I. Glenn, who was born on a farm near Benton, October 1 3, 1887, the son of John and Lavina Glenn. Receiving his early education in common schools and later graduated from Ewing College; he was a popular school teacher for five years. Ambition directing him toward a professional life, he began the reading of law at home during his spare time and then entered the law university of Arkansas, where he received the LL. B. degree in 1913. Returning to Illinois he took the bar examination for permission to practise in Illinois and was admitted to the bar the same year. Always active in the affairs of the Republican party he was honored by the election to the office of County Judge and served from 1914 to 1918. In 191 7 he was a delegate to the Republican State Convention, and alternate to the same convention this year (1920). During the war period he gave his time unsparingly to the home activities and served on the advisory board.

On December 13, 1913, occurred the marriage of Judge Glenn to Miss Goldie King, daughter of Edward and Lillie King, prominent farmers of Northern Township. Mr. and Mrs. Glenn are the parents of four children: Bernice, Clifford, Erwin and Loettia. Mr. Glenn is a very active member of the Knights of Pythias Lodge of Benton, and always ready to assume his civic duties.

NO profession develops with so much of accuracy and masculine vigor the native intellectual predominancies as that of law. The materials for the foundation of society, which are scattered around broadcast and in profusion, often the most heterogeneous and crude, have to be molded into form by the application of great principles. Standing conspicuously in thus molding and fashioning society in this county, Roy C. Martin, the present efficient state's attorney, has won laurels of which he can be justly proud. Mr. Martin was born near Royalton, December 2, 1882, son of John M. and Mary (Vaughn) Martin. He led the average life of a farmer boy and attended the district school. Our subject later attended Ewing college and then taught school for five years, receiving an appointment as assistant bookkeeper at Chester penitentiary, remained there for more than four years, and in 1911 was united in marriage to Miss Ninetta McMurray, secretary to the warden. Believing that a professional career was more ambitious, he entered the Valparaiso university, graduating in law and literature in 1913 th the degree of LL. B. He then entered office of John F. Regan at Mt. and was admitted to the 1914, and returning to this county, began the practise of law. In 1915, he was appointed city attorney, and in Nov. 1916, elected state's attorney. Almost immediately he began to show his ability for such work, and the record shows $33,000 collected, sixty sentences to penitentiary and reformatory, one hundred jail sentences and twenty-five boys to St. Charles, which is an exceptional record. Mr. and Mrs. Martin are the parents of three children: Ruth Maxine, Mary Elizabeth, and Roy McMurray. Mr. Martin fraternally is an Elk and K.of P.

ONE of the busiest attorneys in Franklin County, who by his talented ability, close attention to all the details that creates success, is Robert E. Smith, who was born on a farm near Benton, the son of Albert C. and Judith Smith, prominent farmers of this community who have always been identified with the reliable citizens who are so necessary in the upbuilding and maintenance of sturdy citizenship.

After receiving the preliminary education of a farmer boy in the district schools, our subject then attended Ewing college. Deciding that a professional life was open to him, he entered the Dixon law school and after a thorough course of Blackstone and its requirements, returned to Benton and became associated with W. S. Cantrell, where he finished his study under the tuition of that famous attorney. The insurance business of Mr. Cantrell's and much personal business of this nature consuming most of our subject's time, he did not try for the bar examination until Dec, 1913, and after being admitted to the bar at this time began active practice of his chosen profession. He was appointed City attorney and served in this capacity from 1913 to 1915. Since 1916, he has been the district attorney, six counties in the district, for the inheritance department of the state, under the general jurisdiction of the Attorney General's office at Springfield. On Oct. 23, 1900, at Spring Garden, Jefferson county, there occurred the marriage of Mr. Smith to Miss Veronica Thurmond, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Verina Thurmond. Mr. and Mrs. Smith are the parents of two children: Geoffrey, born July 15th, 1901, and Cantrell Smith, born Aug. 22, 1903, who was a victim of a shot fired by his teacher on Oct. 23, 1919, during a charivari party.

HON. JAMES P. MOONEYHAM, who represented this senatorial district in the General Assembly at the close of the war period, is an honored son of Franklin County, but almost as well known through Southern Illinois as in tnis County, where he was born forty-eignt years ago. He is a son of John Mooneyham, a pioneer from Tennessee, who came to Illinois in 1838, and in the Civil War assisted in organizing the 31st Illinois Volunteer Infantry (Logan's Regiment) and was made first lieutenant of Company I, later lieutenant Company F, 15th Illinois Cavalry. His mother, Minerva J. Manering was also of a pioneer family. Rounding out his preliminary education at Ewing College and later at the State Normal at Carbondale, he turned to reading law while still a young man and was admitted to the bar at the age of twenty-five. Began the practice of law in Benton, 1 90 1 , the next year he was elected county judge. In 1918 he was elected to the General Assembly. In the legislature, he has proved a good Solon and gives excellent account of the stewartship enrtusted him to the extent that merits the approval of his constituents. His attendance was almost perfect and he gave careful attention to the business.

In fraternal circles, Judge Mooneyham is quite prominent, being a Royal Arch Mason, K. of P., and Eastern Star. He is regarded as a progressive and enterprising citizen with always an interest in the civic welfare of his community. He gave his time and means liberally during the war, assisting in the various drives for the Red Cross, Y. M. C. A. and other work of a similar nature.

A DESCENDANT of the famous Logan family, which gave to Southern Illinois, our famous Gen. John A. Logan. Our subject, John A. Logan, was born on a farm near Shawneetown, the son of John R. Logan, a civil war veteran and a cousin of Gen. John

A. Logan. He received his early education in the district schools. He taught school two terms and then entered the Valparaiso (Indiana) University, specializing in elocution and oratory, graduating with the degrees of

B. S. and LL.B. Returning to Shawneetown he was chosen as the principal of the Shawneetown High School and served in that capacity for the years of 1907 and 1908, and while in that work, in 1908, was elected a member of the legislature, and was forced to resign to attend his first session of the legislature which convened before the school period closed. In 1907, he was admitted to the bar and began active practice of his profession and became the junior partner of the law firm of Bartley & Logan, the senior member being Senator Jesse E. Bartley. This partnership of Shawneetown's best legal talent was dissolved in 1913, Mr. Logan coming to Benton, where, by his ability he soon won a large clientele. As was his famous namesake and relative, Mr. Logan has always been active in the Republican party, working for its principles, being in demand as a campaign speaker. In 1916, he was candidate for Congressman at large, but was defeated in the primary, receiving a large and encouraging vote under the condition, being the fourth of nine candidates.

Mr. Logan was married Aug., 1913, to Miss Ellen C. Combs, daughter of Dr. G. W. Combs of Gallatin. Mr. Logan fraternally is a Mason, K. of P. and Modern Woodman, and an active worker in these societies.

THE farming districts have given to Southern Illinois some of the ablest public men, who, born and reared among the agricultural people and knowing their needs and the needs of their communities, have been able to serve them to the best advantage and to forward measures calculated to develop the vast resources of this rich section of the state. In this connection may be mentioned James W. Crawford, ex-member of the State Legislature, whose record in that august body stamped him as a man of eminent ability and a citizen whose energies were devoted to the welfare of his community. Mr. Crawford was born in Franklin County December 3, 1866, a son of John Wesley and Serena M. (Bonds) Crawford.

common schools of Benton, where he also attended high school, and then spent two years in the seminary at DuQuoin. After spending some time as a school teacher in Texas he became a law student in the office of W. F. Ford of Texas, and in 1895 was admitted to the bar, locating in Benton in 1898. Until 1905, Mr. Crawford was en the office of W. S. Cantrell and began the practise of law, having charge of the real estate end of the business, and in connection with his law practise he created a large real estate and insurance business. He owns two hundred and eighty-five acres of land two miles west of Benton and there makes his home. For a number of years Mr. Crawford has been a hard worker in the ranks of the Republican Party, and in 1908 his services were recognized and rewarded by election to the State Legislature. During his term of office he served on the committees of corporations, drainage and waterways, primary elections, railroads, reform, statutory revision and judiciary and was chairman of the judicial apportionments.

In 1890, Mr. Crawford was married to Miss Louisa M. Almond, daughter of Alvin M. Almond, a native of Mississippi, who moved to Arkansas and there died. The following children have been born to this union; Clarence A., Vida, Ora, Ollie Belle, Emmett, Lois, Fay and Charlie. Mr. Crawford is a Chapter Mason, and has passed through the chair in the Odd Fellows and belongs to the Knights of Pythias and Elks, the Woodmen and the

ONE of the most ambitious and progress ive young attorneys of the county is Sidney M. Ward, who is rapidly creating a large clientele by his close application to commercial law and its attributes.

Sidney M. Ward was born June 2, 1893, in Manitou, Colo., son of B. M. and Nettie (Espy) Ward. He received his early education in the common schools of Manitou and Benton, coming here in 1905 to make his home with his mother's father, Sidney B. Espy, graduating from the Benton high school in 1912.

Inclinations and ambitions being directed toward the legal profession, he entered the law department of the Northwestern University, graduating in 1916 with the degree of L.L. B. and was admitted to the bar the same year.

was appointed assistant state's attorney under Roy C. Martin, in which capacity he served until March, 1920. While assistant state's attorney he ably assisted Mr. Martin in making the wonderful record which the state's attoney's office achieved during this time.

In April, 1918, he was appointed United States commissioner for the eastern district and ably administered to the affairs of this office during the time when it was an important adjunct of the local draft board and other patriotic offices of the war time. It is needless to say that our subject entered into the spirit of the work and often overstepped authority for the rapid co-operation then necessary.

He was married to Miss Blanche West of Chicago, January, 1915, while a student there. Mr. and Mrs. Ward are the parents of two children. Richard, born Dec. 8, 1915, and Jane, born July 1, 1917.

ONE of the most honorable professions is that of undertaker and embalmer - showing the nice discernment and resourcefulness in dealing with the relatives of the deceased, preparial for burial and the many other arrangements that are necessary for the funeral - showing at all times the "dearest friend" spirit that lifts the burden from the bereaved, are abilities not easily cultivated but which come from long experience and an adaptability for this particular work. Such a man is G. E. Browning, of Benton, who has been identified with such work for many years, receiving his early training with his father, Wm. R. Browning, who was a business man of long experience and later an undertaker and embalmer of wide repute. His father came to Benton in 1882 and became identified with the clothing and gents' furnishing business and later general merchandise as Browning & Moore, which were also undertakeis of the community. In this atmosphere of combined business and pro- fessional life, our subject, G. E. Browning was reared. Born at Ewing, Dec. I 1, 1878. he was educated in the Benton public school and graduated from the Benton High School, and at once entered the store and became an active assistant to his father, and upon the firm of Browning & Moore being dissolved, the firm of Browning and Son, undertakers, was started in 1914, and our subject from his experience and study of the profession, became a liscensed embalmer. After his father's death in 1916, he started in business for himself, and maintains the most modern undertaking parlors, where every convenience is maintained for this woithy profession.

THE above picture represents one of the oldest manufacturing institutions now in active operation in Benton. After many owners and managements had been forced to relinquish control, the business was incorporated in 1900, with the following officers: E. B. Nolen, president; J. L. Ohle, vice-president; Dr. L. W. Brand, secretary and treasurer, and M. G. Mann, manager. The mill has been remodeled, new and modern machinery installed and equipped to make it one of the most modern milling plants in southern Illinois, having a daily capacity of 1 50 barrels of flour besides a large manufacturing capacity of all kinds of feed and meal for all purposes. Recently

Considerable credit for the success of the Benton Milling Co. can be given to Mr. Mann, the manager, and R. W. Brotherton, the miller, whom the company made special efforts to secure.

"Perfection" flour, created by the Benton Milling Co. is a most reliable product, and the housewives of southern Illinois are rapidly becoming positive in their demand for their home product.

ONE of the most prominent law firms of Franklin county, a firm that has been identified with the upbuilding of Benton. When other legal firms have dissolved for many reasons, the firm of Layman & Johnson have by their keen insight and knowledge of conditions and respect for one another .worked faithfully and harmoniously together since their partnership in 191 1.

The senior member of the firm, Thomas J. Layman, was born in Benton, Nov. 27, 1878, the son of Thomas J. Layman, a pioneer of Franklin county and veteran of the civil war, who was also an attorney with a successful and honorable career. He received his preparatory education in the Benton high school, followed by graduating from the State Normal at Carbondale, in 19 0 2. Taking Up the Study of Thomas ]. Layman law with his uncle, C. H. Layman, he was admitted to the bar in 1 904. He served for a while as United States commissioner and in 1910 was elected County Judge, and was a creditable representative of the bench for four years. On Oct. 31, 1906, he was united in marriage to Miss Lula Whittenberg. Mr. and Mrs. Layman are the parents of three children, Martha, Harriet and Thomas J., Jr. Mr. Layman gives his lodge preference to the Masons and K. of P.

William B. Johnson, was born in Hamilton county, on Sept. 24, 1884, the son of a prominent farmer, Chas. M. Johnson. Receiving his early education in the district school, he later attended the Ewing college. Deciding on a professional career, he then entered the law department of the Illinois University, from which he graduated in ' 1 1 , but had been admitted to the bar in Dec, 1910. After his thorough course in the university, he joined Mr. Layman in their partnership in 1 91 1 , WMiam B. Johnson and ^as ajwayS been considered a man of large legal capacities He was married March 29, 1906, to Miss Irna Webb, daughter of a prominent farmer and banker. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson are the parents of two children, Wm. Webb and Walter Carlton.

rILLIAM E Steiner came from Shawneetown in August, 1919, and purchased the suburban store of Wm. T. Hubbard at 402 East Church street. Since then the stock has been doubled many times on account of the rapidly increased patronage.

When the World War broke out Mr. Steiner was conducting a grocery store in Shawneetown. This he disposed of to accept a position from the DuPont Powder Co., as Manager of the Y. M. C. A. canteen at Jacksonville, Tenn.

For over 16 years he was in the employ of the Adams Express Co., both in the Evansville office and as messenger. In 1902 he came to Shawneetown and entered the grocery business with C. A. Frier, under the firm name of Frier & Steiner. After a successful business of six years the firm sold out. Mr. Frier removing to Fairfield. Later Mr. Steiner again entered the grocery business.

In January, 1903, he was wedded to Miss Attie Frier, daughter of Judge and Mrs. N. A. Frier, who now reside in Benton. To this union has been born three daughters and one son, namely, Madge, aged 16, who is a Sophomore in the Benton Township High School; Mabel, aged 14, a Junior in the same school; William Edward, aged 6. and Maxine, aged 2.

ONE of the earliest industries of Benton and one that has survived all conditions of a county in which many diversified means of up-building a community has existed, the A. D. Jackson Saddlery Company is a monument to its founder and present management. This company was founded in 1885 by A. D. Jackson, who was born in Chester county, Pa., February 9, 1829. When six years of age he left home and went to live with an aunt who was a Quaker and had instilled in him all of her sterling qualities which remained with him throughout life and descended to his family of four children, Henry R. Jackson, William D. Jackson, Charles A. Jackson and Anna Belle (Jackson) Reid. At a very early age, A. D. Jackson learned the trade of making harness, saddles, collars and other horse furnishings, and later went to Philadelphia where he finished his trade and became a journeyman, working through the East and South and finally coming to Benton in August, 1855, and immediately opened up a small harness shop which was the foundation of the large industry bearing his name at this time. He was married to Miss Jennie R. Dudley, March 4, 1861.

The trade at the little shop grew gradually but steadily and the capacity of the store and factory was increased year by year. The firm was incorporated in 1897, in which year a very destructive fire destroyed the stock and buildings, causing a loss of $40,000.00, no insurance being carried on the buildings or stock. The place was rebuilt however and is now of sufficient size and capacity, covering practically a city block, to adequately handle the large business transacted not only with customers in Illinois but many clients in the sunounding states.

As the sons, William D. and Charles A. grew to manhood they became apprentices to their father, and learned the trade in every essential under their father's careful tutelage. The father died May 6, 1 906, the management of the business falling upon Charles A., who had not only become an expert in this particular part of the business, but had been sent to Bryant and Stratton's Business College, in St. Louis, to secure the business training for this end of the business. He represented the company on the road for many years, and has accordingly a personal acquaintance with a large number of his customers.

The present officers of the A. D. Jackson Saddlery Co. are: Charles A. Jackson, president and treasurer; Anna Belle Reed, vicepresident; W. A. Gott, secretary.

In spite of the fact that the automobile industry has in some respects caused a decrease in the Harness and Saddlery business, this firm has continued to grow, and as the needs for automobile accessories become necessary, the people will find that this progressive firm will be ready to meet the demands of its many customers throughout the country.

FROM small beginnings large merchandise institutions are ofttimes created, especially when managed by men of perseverance and business sagacity. The McFall Hardware Co. is the result of such a beginning. The company was organized in 1898, by W. W. McFall, A. L. Eskew and G. C. Cantrell, as a co-partnership, by the purchase of a small stock of hardware from Judge Flannigan, then operated under the name of the Benton Hardware Co. Under the direct management of A. L. Eskew, the business grew rapidly and in 1902 was incor-

A. L. Eskew, who is an example of the versatile business man who has marked his career with unceasing toil and honorable occupation and transactions. From a lad wholly unknown his rise has incessantly been in the ascendancy. Born in Augusta, Ark., Oct. 21, 1872, the son of Lafayette and Anna (Shuh) Eskew, he received a common school education and helped his father on the farm and at odd times clerked in stores until 18 years of age, when upon the death porated and larger quarters secured. The incorporating officers were, and are now: W. W. McFall, president; A. L. Eskew, vice-president and general manager; G. W. Cantrell, secretary-treasurer and S. E. Eskew, assistant manager. Dealing in farm implements of every description, hardware, tinware, paints, and varnish, the work of building such an institution as the present McFall Hardware Co., has been of such a nature that the management can be proud of its business monument.

of his mother he came to Franklin county and was in his uncle T. J. Fink's store at Ewing, for two years. Severing the ties of relatives, he was employed for a time by Senator A. M. Stratton, of Mt. Vernon, in the implement business. At this time, realizing the need of further education, he resigned his position and entered the Ewing college. After a term in college he came to Benton and was manager of the Hudson hotel for three years. On Nov. 12, 1897, our subject was married to Miss Hallie McFall, daughter of W. W. McFall. Soon after his marriage he was employed at McFall's mill until the organization of the McFall Hardware Company. Mr. and Mrs. Eskew are the parents of four children, Wm. A., Clarence Eugene, Helen and James. Mr. Eskew has never been active in fraternal circles, but is a member of the B. P. O. E.

OF the outstanding lawyers of Franklin county, this firm, composed of Robert E. and George A. Hickman is conspicuous; they are the sons of Dr. Z. Hickman, a Civil War veteran. They were born and reared within a few blocks of the place where they now maintain and have had their offices for more than twenty years.

The Hickman brothers are good examples of what may be done by young men without a college law education - they obtained their first insight and familiarity with their Blackstone by studying in the law offices of other successful attorneys - Robert E. with Judge R. H. Flannigan, and George A. with Hart & Spiller.

The Hickmans are Democrats in political faith - Robert E. serving as first Judge of the City Court of Benton, and for some years as Master of Chancery, and George A. as State's Attorney of the county from 1908 to 1912.

Both the brothers are considered very forcible trial lawyers, and have conducted the defense of some of the most notable criminal cases of the county.

The spirit which they have shown on public questions for the betterment of civic and industrial life of their county has made them popular with all classes.

The Honor Roll section of this history contains the photograph and service record of Robert E., who was captain of company "F" during the Spanish-American war.

A business career for professional men is not uncommon especially when identified with some branch of the profession in which they have been educated. Such is the experience of Dr. J. Ottis Hart, proprietor of the Hart's Drug Store of Benton. Dr. Hart was born in Eddyville, Pope county, the son of Dr. S. F. and Martha A. (Randolph) Hart. His father was a prominent physician and druggist of Carrier Mills. Our subject wisely decided to follow the profession of his distinguished sire, first by graduating from Valparaiso (Indiana) University in pharmacy in 1900, and then the St. Louis College of Physicians and Surgeons, in 1902, with the degree of M. D. He took up the practice of medicine in E. St. Louis, leaving there in 1904 for Carrier Mills, where he practiced his profession for one year and then to Smithsboro for a year before coming to Benton in 1906. A suitable location secured, he opened his present drug store, which, on account of the Doctor's thorough knowledge of drugs and kindred subjects, has always been a most reliable place where one could obtain professional advice and the necessary treatment.

Dr. Hart was married Aug. 25, 1901, to Miss Mina E. Jackson, daughter of Charles A. Jackson, of Eddyville. Dr. and Mrs. Hart are the parents of two childien, Haskel C. and Durward F.

Dr. Hart is active in fraternal circles having received all the Masonic degrees; a member of the Odd Fellows and Red Men. During the war period, Dr. Hart was physician for Company "F," rendering the company efficient medical attention without charge, and was also active in all home service work during these times.

THE automobile business is rapidly recruiting to its ranks the best business and specialty men of our country, and Benton, has in this respect, given to the industry one of its ablest young men who by his previous education and experience is sure to create for himself a successful business career in this line of endeavor.

R. J. Kirkpatrick, proprietor of the Kirkpatrick Motor Co., was born at Osage Mission, Kansas, Sept. 25, 1887, son of R. D. and Martha E. (Penny) Kirkpatrick, distinguished pioneers of Franklin county, who at this time had left their native state to conduct a newspaper in Kansas, later as a manufacturer of linseed and castor oil in St. Louis, but journalism again called them and returning to their native community purchased the Benton Republican - other large interests demanding attention the newspaper was sold and Mr. Kirkpatrick, senior, devoted the remainder of his life to stock, agricultural and coal mining pursuits. By these parental notations it can be seen that our subject had the opportunity for early training along various lines. He graduated from the Benton High School in 1914, and after a short interval attended the University of Illinois at Urbana, graduating in 191 1 with degree B. of S. and mechanical engineering. For five years he sold mining machinery for the Sullivan Machine Co. and then was employed by the United States Fuel Co. as electrical engineer. Purchasing his present business from the Walker-Rea Motor Co., he at once assumed active charge of same, and is proving to the business world that he a true descendant of a worthy sire.

R. J. Kirkpatrick was married to Miss Phyllis White, June 28, 1916, at Wallace, Idaho, while he was on a western trip for the machinery company he represented at that time. Mr. and Mrs. Kirkpatrick are the parents of two children, Ester Jane, born April 12, 1917, and Minnie Lou, born Nov. 28, 1919.

THE principal drug store in Benton is the Clayton -Crisp Drug Co., the interior of which is shown here. It is easily recognized as a most modern store with the very best of fixtures and everything that makes a complete shopping emporium for drugs and accessories, as well as cool and refreshing drinks and iced dishes - a popular headquarters for both men and women. The store was purchased by Dr. J. W. Clayton and J. E. Crisp from Sisk Bros., July 18, 1919.

Mr. Crisp, is a very efficient pharmacist, having been identified with drug stores in this and sui rounding counties for several years. He was born in Jonesboro, Sept. 9, 1889, and after graduating from the Jonesboro High School, attended the University of Illinois, College of Pharmacy, graduating in 1915. He was then appointed state pharmacist at Chester penitentiary and later employed as drug clerk at Jonesboro for four years. He was married June 8, 1913, to Miss Minnie E. Logan. Mr. and Mrs. Crisp are the parents of two children, John Logan and Helen Josephine. He is a member of the Masons, Elks, K. of P. and W. 0. W.

THE general merchandise store of Moore & Moore is one of the oldest mercantile institutions in Benton. The original store was established by Ward & Moore - W. R. Ward and Capt. Carroll Moore, later being sold to W. R. Browning and W. E. Moore, the latter a son of Capt. Moore. The store was conducted under the firm name of Browning & Moore until 1907, when Mr. Browning retired, Joseph E. Moore purchasing his interest. W. E. Moore was born 1865, son of Capt. Carroll Moore and at an early age began to work in his father's Store and continued in the same line of endeavor to the present time. He was married to Delia Hawkins, September, 1901. They have one son, Marian Moore, who graduated from high school this year. Upon the decease of his first wife, Mr. Moore in 1903 married Miss Pearl Prindle. Unto this union has been born Dorothy and Charles. He is an active Republican and has served as county supervisor for two terms and as alderman of the City, and is at present superintendent of highways. He is a member of the Masons, I. O. O. F. and Modern Woodmen societies.

Joseph E. Moore, a cousin of W. E. Moore, spent his early life on his father's farm. He is a graduate from the Keokuk, Iowa, medical university with a degree of M. D. Not caring to actively practice his profession he entered the drug business and was a successful druggist for ten years, selling out and entering the general mercantile field in 1907, as above stated. He was married to Miss Bertha St. Clare in November, 1900, and to this union have been born Virginia and George. The photograph of J. E. Moore could not be secured in time for insertion w UCCESSFUL business men, it is said, are generally born and not developed, and especially is this true if various business enterprises are indulged in and not a specialty made of a particular business. Such a business man is W. J. Fitzgerrell, proprietor of the Fitzgerrell Motor Co.

Mr. Fitzgerrell was born in Perry county son of Sylvester and Margaret Fitzgerrell who came to Benton while our subject was an infant. His father started in the hardware business and was the senior member of the hardware firm of Fitzgerrell & Hudelson, and naturally our subject received an early knowledge of this business. Attending the common schools of Benton and graduating from the Benton High School, he then completed a business course in the Gem City Business College at Quincy. His father dying in 1909, he and his brother, C. A Fitzgerrell, purchased Mr. Hudelsons inter, est and conducted the business until Feb. 1913, when they sold out the business to

W. E. Campbell, and our subject started in the same business in West Frankfort where he conducted a successful business until 1918, and entered the First National Bank of that place, of which he had been a director since 1915, as vice-president and active cashier. In 1919, he purchased his present business of the Williams Motor Co. of Benton and after organizing his forces and placing O. T. Sweeney in charge, motored to Florida for a long needed vacation. Returning to Benton this spring (1920) he assumed active charge of his new business with the enthusiasm shown in other business enterprises.

The Fitzgerrell Motor Co., besides having a most complete repair department, with expert mechanics, is agency for the Overland, Willys-Knight and the Buick cars, and maintains an accessory department where everything required for the automobilist can be secured.

AMONG the professions demanding a keen sense of deportment and professional bearing that soothes the bereaved, is that of undertaker and embalmer. The age of a firm of this kind generally denotes their success in this profession as a community does not give to this profession their patronage from a sense of financial economy. Nolens Undertaking is one of the oldest institutions of its kind in Benton, being established about twelve years ago by E. B.

Nolen, and has continued until the present time. Mr. Nolen has had associated with him during these years, W. W. McCreery, and later, W. E. Jacobs, who has recently moved to his old home in Kokomo, Ind. Mr. Nolen will continue the business under the name of E. B. Nolen, undertaker and embalmer. A reader of these pages will often find the name of E. B. Nolen connected with different firms and activities, which is proof of his successful career.

THE subject of this sketch, 0. L. Grady, has spent practically his entire life in the plumbing business. He was born in Pittsburgh, Pa., May 24, 1883, son of S. M. Grady, a plumbing contractor of that place. His early life was spent as an assistant to his father. At the early age of 18 he started out in the world for himself and landed in St. Louis, where he worked at his trade for two years, and then in Kansas City for a while, locating first in Illinois at Carbondale for three years. He came to Benton March 8, 1900 and immediately started in business for himself. The proof of his success and complete mastery of the many technical problems in plumbing contracting work is the fact that practically all of the large building operations in Benton requiring plumbing work have been done by Mr. Grady.

Mr. Grady was married September 27, 1911, to Miss Ethel Walker of Benton, daughter of R. Y. Walker. They are the parents of three children: Thelma Alice, Otis Lee, Jr. and Margaret Louise. He is a member of the Elks and K. of P. He is one of the popular young business men of Benton and always accepts his civic obligations in a spirit that meets the popular approval.

ONE of the leading mercantile organizations of Franklin county is that of Pope & McReynolds, which firm is a successor of P. S. Pope who was one of the pioneer business men of Benton. The store was purchased in 1913. by J. E. Pope and George McReynolds, who were employees of P. S. Pope and the former being the elder son. The store continued under this co-partnership arrangement until August 19, 1919, when another son, B. W. Pope became a third partner and a branch store was established in Christopher in October of the same year.

J. E. Pope was born June 10, 1888, and has been actively engaged in his present line of endeavor from the time that he was old enough to work in his father's store. Mr. McReynolds, the other member of the firm, is a native of Indiana, born October 21 , 1867, in Gibson county and for several years was engaged in general merchandise business and later in the drug business. He came to Benton in 1 905 and entered the employ of Mr. Pope. In 1913, he joined J. E. Pope in the purchase of the store as above noted. He has a son, Howard Elliot McReynolds, a World War veteran, who is employed in the Christopher store.

Interior Of Benton Store Interior Of Christopher Store

The two stores are modern in every particular with the very latest fixtures and display cases for the large line of clothing carried. The well known brand of Schloss Bros, and Sherman & Sons in ready-made clothing are carried in both stores. Other advertised brands of merchandise are: Arrow Brand collars and shirts, Queen Quality union made dress shoes; Endicott Johnson work shoes, Rothchild Bros, hats and Lackawanna overalls, both union made.

The stores are popular and enjoy a very large trade which is continually increasing on account of the many genuine mercantile bargains and their efforts to always please their customers.

AMONG the representative business men of Benton is David M. Logan, who in the short time he has been identified with the mercantile industry of Benton has won a host of friends and customers for the firm with which he is identified. Mr. Logan was born at the Logan homestead near Junction, Gallatin county. His father was Robert Logan, one of the prominent farmers of the vicinity, who came to this state with his parents from Virginia in 1840, first settling near Shawneetown and later moving one mile north of Junction where the Logan homestead was created. Robert Lo^an enlisted in Co. D., 120th 111. Vol., at the age of 22 and served in the Union army for three years and nine months. At the age of thirty-two he was married to Mary Catherine Munch, of Portsmouth, Ohio, to which union was born nine children.

David M. Logan grew to maturity in Gallatin county, to which public schools he is indebted for his preliminary education. As a youth he engaged in farming and later with a mercantile firm in Venice. In 1908, he received an appointment at the Chester penitentiary and after several years successful work there he went to Pontiac State Reformatory where he pursued the same kind of work until coming to Benton in 1919. After a few months with different mercantile institutions to become acquainted with the field, he with E.. C. Kanady, a brother-in-law, formed the partnership of Logan & Kanady, which is now one of the busiest groceries and markets of Benton.

In 1910, at Menard, was solemnized the marriage of Mr. Logan to Miss Linnie Dowell, daughter of Deputy Warden and Mrs. Chas. Dowell. Mr. and Mrs. Logan are the parents of four children: Mary Elizabeth. Helen Louise, Charles Dowell and David M., Jr.

MANY successful mechanics are those who by circumstances have not had the benefit of an apprenticeship, but from a desire and ambition to perfect themselves in a chosen trade, develop into experts by close study and application. Such a man is

W. G. Thomas, watchmaker and jeweler of Benton. Mr. Thomas was born on a farm near Benton, January 15, 1870. Dividing his time between farming and watch repairing at home, he was able to purchase a farm of his own at thirty years of age.

Mr. Thomas started in his present business, January, 1912, after being the master mechanic of the Hart & William mine for several years. This position being the result of a complete mechanical knowledge - from large machinery to the smaller complicated watches and jewelry.

He was married April 23, 1888, to Miss Francis A. Welsh, daughter of a neighboring farmer; she died Oct. 6, 1900, leaving two daughters and two sons: Edgar, Charles, Ada, and Mary - Charles was killed in Sept., 1918. On June 6, 1903, Mr. Thomas married his present wife, Eva Briley, the result of this union is three children, Deuard, Fern and John.

THE new and most modern building pictured above was erected in the spring of 1920, for the Coal Belt Candy Company. It is located on East Main street near the C. & E. I. Railroad. The rapid growth of this institution from a small jobbing business occupying a floor space of 24 x 40, in June, 1919, to the present large building in less than a year, is an example of the possibilities for rapid business growth in this territory. The business has had the advantage of the supervision of real business men who know the wants of merchants of the community.

The company is incorporated under the Illinois laws. The stock is controlled by local capital. It was established for the purpose of doing a wholesale jobbing business, specializing in fancy groceries, grocer sundries, candy, cigars, tobacco, etc. Four salesmen are employed who cover all the principal railroad towns in southern Illinois.

BENTON is rapidly becoming the whole sale center of a large and growing population, the number of wholesale institutions locating here in the last few years being proof of the city's desirability as a wholesale center. The latest firm to build for permant location, is Howard and Casey Co., wholesale grocers, which is one of the oldest and largest firms in southern Illinois, and has been doing business in Benton and surrounding territory for over twelve years. Always desirous of giving their customers the best service possible, in 1919, the erection of the large branch house, shown above, was started. It was opened for business Feb. 23, 1920. The building has over 20,000 square feet of floor space and is modern in every way. Robert E. Turnage, who has been with Howard and Casey Co. at Marion for eight years, is the local manager. Herbert R. Ashley and Everett Howell, salesmen, are both ex-service men from other counties, while Ira Dillion, shipping clerk, and Roy Munday, truck driver, are both Franklin county World War veterans.

This Company's brand s - "Howard ", "Ho-Ca-Co" and "Serv-Us" are recognized as signs of the best in pure food products. "Scout'' coffee, which they roast and pack is justly famous.

ONE of the largest business enterprises to be established in Benton, and which immediately assumed an important place in the business life of the city, is the Benton Hardware & Furniture Co. This large business institution was organized in June, 1918, by a combination of the Monroe Furniture Company and new capital. The new company, which is incorporated, then occupied the large double store room on the northwest corner of the square on West Main street, which had recently been vacated by the Burkett Store Co. The new company immediately installed new and modern fixtures and a practically new stock of furniture and hardware. By application of modern business methods and the plan of selling the very best merchandise at the lowest possible margin of profit, the company has in the short time in busines. built up a strong and flourishing patronage.

The president of the Benton Hardware & Furniture Co. is M. G. Monroe, the owner of the Monroe Furniture Company above mentioned. Mr. Monroe was born in Williamson county, Sept. 19, 1888. He came to Benton in 1912 as a bookkeeper for the Hamilton Utility Co., which position he occupied until establishing the Monroe Furniture Co. in 1915. He was married in October, 1910, to Miss Maud Robertson of Johnston City. Mr. and Mrs. Monroe are the parents of one child, John William.

Another stockholder in the company, and active in its progress is L. J. Hake, a native of Washington county - a farmer boy who worked on his father's farm in the summer time and attended school in winter. Desirous of entering the business world he attended Browns Business College, graduating in 1 904. For five years he was employed in a retail store in Vandalia and then took a course in window trimming and show card writing to better prepare himself for his business career. He came to Benton in 1 900 and entered the employ of the Burkett Store Company, but previously had been employed in Garden City, Kans. and at the W. T. Wall Department Store in Cairo. Mr. Hake was married in August, 1910, to Miss Blanch Olive Tayton of Carbondale. Mr. and Mrs. Hake are the parents of one child, Mary Geneive.

The Benton Hardware & Furniture Co., have as one of their trusted employees, John Gambriel, a veteran of the world war, whose service record and picture will be found in the Honor Roll section of this history.

A BIOGRAPHER finds sincere pleasure in recording the history and achievement? of his subjects, and especially those who have created a worth while history by their own efforts, and, while building an affluence foi themselves, have so conducted their various enterprises that the upbuilding and prosperity of their community has been allied with their own. The subject of this sketch, Harry Stotlar, is an example of the achievements possible by the younger generation, who will train themselves to recognize opportunities, grasp and carry them through to a successful termination by the close application to those business principles that make success worth while. Mr. Stotlar was born October 15. 1881, in Williamson County, Illinois, the son of James L. and Alice (Cox) Stotlar. The Stotlars are originally from Pennsylvania, coming to Illinois and settling in Williamson County in 1855 - the City of Herrin being builded principally on the old Stotlar homestead. Nearby was the farm of George Cox, a native of Virginia, (the father of Mrs. James L. Stotlar), two of whose sons enlisted in the Union Army during the Civil War. both losing their lives in battle.

At the age of I 7, Harry Stotlar entered the employ of his uncle, W. N. Stotlar, from whom he a short time later purchased an interest in the business with a borrowed capital of $3000. After three years, foreseeing the rapid building era of the community, he assisted in organizing and incorporating the Stotlar-Herrin Lumber Company - the history of which appears on other pages in this book. Mr. Stotlar first appeared in the development work in this county in 1 905 when the Snyder-Klotzer lumber yard at Christopher was taken over by his firm. After reorganizing this business he came to Benton, in 1907, to organize and consolidate two of the best yards that had been purchased to the Stotlar-Herrin group, and since that time six other yards in the county have been added to the Stotlar-Herrin chain. These changes always added greater responsibilities but his capacity for organization and promotion work was greater than these tasks, and a surplus energy was directed toward many other industries - and it is further to his credit that every enterprise to which he directed his ability was of vast importance in the upbuilding of the county. His earlier and present real estate operations provide the means for the great influx of population to own their homes; the manufacturing enterprises of which he has been the leading spirit, have added population to the county. His interests in the mining enterprises which have been sold or merged into large corpoiations, have had and now have the benefit of his enthusiasm and discerning business judgment. While the many enterprises with which he is actively identified would seemingly tax the capacity of any man, Mr. Stotlar exercises a guiding hand over the entire Stotlar-Herrin chain of lumber yards in Franklin County, and is President of the West Frankfort Bank and Trust Company, Zeigler State Bank, Franklin County Building Association, Christopher Building and Loan Association and director in several other associations and industrial enterprises. He owns a farm near Benton and is always ready to help in the agricultural development of the county - a booster and one of the leading spirits of the Franklin County Fair Association.

Rated as one of the wealthiest men in Franklin County, he is one of the most popular - no worth while industrial enterprise, philanthropic or civic movement finds him too busy to assume a portion of the work or financial obligation. He always found time, during the World War, to help in all the Red Cross, Salvation Army, Y. M. C. A., and Liberty Loan drives, contributing libeially thereto himself and using his institutions to help promote the different liberty loans.

On March 24, 1912 occurred the marriage of Mr. Stotlar to Miss Mary A. Cantrell, daughter of Mr. and Mis. W. S. Cantrell, one of the pioneer families, conspicuously mentioned in the history and development of the county.

THE bird's eye view of the modern lumber yard and shed of the Benton Lumber Company shown here, is the result of the rapid growth of Benton, and the need of an institution of its kind. The Benton Lumber Company was incorporated May 7, 191 8, the incorporators and officers being J. L. Smith, president; W. W. Williams, vice-president; C. J. Turner, secretary and manager. J. L. Smith, the president, is the head of the West Frankfort Lumber Company of West Frankfort, and his personal review will be found on another page; W. W. Williams, vice-president, is the widely known attorney, a full review of whose career will also be found in another section; C. J. Turner, secretary and active manager of the company, was born in Wellington, Kans., Sept. 14, 1893. He has spent most of his time since leaving school in railroad work, being engaged in that work in West Frankfort when he was married to Miss Frances Smith, daughter of J. L.Smith, above mentioned, August 1 , 1916. Mr. and Mrs. Turner are the parents of a son, John T., born Dec. 17, 1918.

The Benton Lumber Company, as can be seen from the photograph, makes a specialty of shed-dried lumber. Their capacity and stock is large and varied, and everything necessary to build any building can be secured at this large lumber yard.

MAINTAINING an up to date confectionery and candy store is an art which the proprietors of the Metropolitan Confectionery mastered in Greece before coming to America to make their future home.

The proprietors are Tom Bastas, George Kladis and Spiras Bastas. The first two members of the firm coming to Benton in June, 1919, from St. Louis where they were engaged in similar business. The latter member of the firm, Spiras Bastas, is a brother of Tom, and came to Benton from Duluth, Minn., where he has been since his discharge from the army in which he had eleven months of overseas service.

The bright and cheerful surroundings of the Metropolitan Confectionery makes it a popular place and one can always be sure of receiving the best in plain and fancy drinks and iced refreshments, as well as the best in expert-made candies and confections.

ONE of the newest business industries of Benton is the Benton Confectionery, which was established August, 1919, by Loren J. Williams. This confectionery is one of the most complete and sanitary places of its kind in Franklin county, and has become the popular resort for the young people of Benton who are always welcome and met with that congenial attitude which popularizes a place of this kind. Standard and mixed drinks of all kinds are served during all seasons; creams and ices that meet the approval of the most fastidious. A growing demand for the best candies and like dainties has been created by always having a fresh and complete assortment to select from. Loren J. Williams was born at Meredosia, Morgan county, January 3, 1892; the son of C. H. and Jessie (Nolen) Williams. Learning the barber trade when quite young, he came to Benton in 1914 and worked in different shops, purchasing one of his own in 1918, which he sold when he opened up the Benton Confectionery. Mr. Williams is one of the popular young business men of Benton and is a member of the B. P. 0. E. and the M. W. of A.

SINCE January 1st, 1907, the Burkhart Shoe Store has been the only store of its kind in Benton - the only shoe store dealing in nothing but ladies' and men's footwear. It was established on the above date by Jean Burkhart, now of Marion. The store has been under the management of Ben F. Sparks until July 10th when Clyde L. Nichols, formerly of Centralia became the manager. Mr. Nichols is a World War veteran serving nine months overseas and previous to the war was employed by the Steds Shoe Store of Centralia. The people of Benton are sure to find Mr. Nichols a worthy successor of Mr. Sparks.

Huston Howell has been with the store since it was established and is a thorough footwear salesman and has many customers from Benton and community.

The principal lines are the Stacy-Adams and Bostonian shoes for men, Selby and John Kelley for ladies and Billiken and Godman for children. A complete line of hosiery for men and women and children in silk and lisle is carried in stock. There is no doubt but what the Burkhart Shoe Store will continue to be the popular shopping place for ladies' and men's footwear.

THE building of a large and flourishing marble and granite business, selling the product to the bereaved relative of the deceased, demands a personality that is not easily developed, but must come from an instinct for this particular business. Our subject, Edward T. Dobry, while his early training was far from being directed toward such work has created a name for himself as a successful salesman and manufacturer of marble and granite tomb-stones and monuments. He was born at Green Bay, Wis., on July 21, 1886, the son of John and Antonia (Socoup) Dobry and attended the common schools, and at an early age was apprenticed to a harness maker, and then came to Benton at the age of 21 years and entered the employ of the Jackson Saddlery Company where he remained for ten years.

On Sept. 7, 1909, he was married to Miss Lena Thurman, daughter of E. M. Thurman of Marion, a large monument and granite dealer of that place. In September, 1907, Mr. Dobry formed a partnership with Ralph Thurman, brother of Mrs. Dobry. During the war period Mr. Thurman was called to the colors and Mr. Dobry bought his partner's interest and has since conducted the business under the name of the Benton Marble & Granite Co.

The business is growing very rapidly, and the product is sold all over Southern Illinois. ffo job is too big or too small for this firm to handle. Mr. Dobry employs an expert designer which assists greatly in creating the reputation of the Benton Marble & Granite Company.

Jake Werner

THIS meat market was established by Wm. Werner, Sr., father of the Werner brothers who now conduct the plant, over 33 years ago, and is the oldest market in the county devoted exclusively to the butchering and retailing of meats.

The place is a fitting monument to its founder, who devoted the best years of his life to its establishment, and whose cardinal principle was that he "would not sell anything that he wouldn't eat himself." His sons have scrupulously and conscientiously maintained this standard of cleanliness and the sanitary handling of all fresh meats.

Mr. Werner came to the United States after the Civil War and located first in Belleville. Then he went to St. Louis and later to DuQuoin, 111., where he spent 5 years on a farm. Besides the two boys who now conduct this market, there are surviving three daughters - Mrs. E. Andris of Marion; Mrs. John A. Ludwig of Benton and Mrs. S. G. Groves of St. Louis, Mo.

In connection with the shop on the square, which has been in almost the same spot for 33 years, is a slaughter house a mile from town that is fitted with the latest equipment for the rendering of lard and the making of all kinds of sausage. This plant has for years been fitted with a modern Ammonia System of Cold Storage, and the retail establishment is just now being furnished with the same style of cold storage system.

Wm. Werner, the elder, was born in Germany on September 13, 1846, and died in Benton Dec. 12, 1919. His wife, who was Miss Bertha Elizabeth Frederick of Belleville, 111., died Dec. 23, 1904. While a native-born German, America had no more loyal citizen than Mr. Werner, and none who contributed more cheerfully of his means.

Of the two sons who now compose the firm, William Jr., is the older. For two years before his fathers death he was the buyer. Jake, the younger member of the firm, gives most of his time to the details at the slaughter house.

William Jr., was wedded to Miss Carrie Baumgartner of Johnston City on March 9, 1898. To this union has been born Eva, aged 21 ; Carl, aged 18; Fred, aged 14, and Helen, aged 8 years.

On Nov. 15, 1902, Jacob E. Werner and Miss Annie Merkel of Marion, were wedded. Until a short time ago they were in the butcher and fancy grocery business at Christopher.

ONE of the most popular and efficient County officials is F. D. Whittington, the present circuit clerk and recorder of Franklin County. Mr. Whittington was born October 26, 1876, the son of W. J. and Phoebe E. (Bain) Whittington, pioneer citizens and farmers living near Benton W. J. Whittington was a veteran of the Civil War serving three years, from 1861 to 1864. F. D. Whittington, the immediate subject of this sketch, worked on his father's farm and attended the district schools in the winter time. In 1898 he began the profession of school teaching and continued in this work for six years. In 1905 he took up the trade of carpenter. Three years later he established one of the first moving picture theatres in Benton. He continued in the theatre business until 1917 and in 1918 organized the Benton Amusement Co. of which he is president.

Mr. Whittington has always been an active and stalwart Republican and has been elected to various offices. He was first elected clerk of Benton township in 1 902 and has altogether held this office for four terms. In 1916 he was elected circuit clerk and recorder in a very hotly contested election, receiving the majority of 96, running ahead of his ticket.

Mr. Whittington was married September 11, 1898, to Miss Matilda E. Little, daughter of John Little, a prominent farmer, deceased in 1905. Mr. and Mrs. Whittington are the parents of four children: Lena, Juel, Valley and Allie. He is a very prominent worker in fraternal circles, being a member of the B. P. O. E., K. of P., I.O. O. F. and Modern Woodmen.

THE mercantile industry has many examples of young men who have in a few years become proficient mercantile men, but none who have made more rapid strides in this line of endeavor than Virgil H. Center of the Center Dry Goods Company of Benton - recognized as the real competitive shopping place for women in Benton.

Mr. Center was born in Mt. Pulaski, February 4th, 1888, son of C. H. Center, a mine manager, now of DuQuoin. He received his education in the grade and high schools of DuQuoin, and then entered the mercantile field as a clerk for Pope & Company, general merchants of that place. Applying himself to general merchandising he, in a few years, became proficient, and this company sent him to Benton in 1911 to open a branch store. This store was soon sold and Mr. Center then entered the employ of the Nolen Mercantile Company, and remained with this firm for two years. In 1915, the Center Dry Goods Company was organized and incorporated, and the present store of the Center Dry Goods Company was opened for business on

March 6th of that year. From the first opening day this store has enjoyed an ever increasing trade. The policy of the store is that of quick sales - no large stock of unseasonable merchandise crowds their shelves - the stock being kept fresh and up to the minute with a rapid turnover forced through liberal advertising, constantly keeping before the public the fact that the Center Dry Goods Company is the home of the latest fashions at the right price.

Mr. Center was married October 19th, 1914, to Miss Laura Casey of Ewing, a descendant of the pioneer Casey family of that place. Mi. and Mrs. Center have one daughter, Josephine. They are popular citizens, always taking an active part in the social life of Benton. During the war period Mr. Center was active in all home work and was one of the county directors of the Red Cross organization. He is an Elk and Mason. Mr. Center has always been a leader in B. Y. P. U. circles, and was for some time vice-president of the state organization of that religious society.

AMONG the large realty organizations that have and are doing much toward the development of Franklin county's wonderful resources is the firm of Rea Brothers - Hosea and S. C. D., who are Franklin county boys, born and reared in this county. The Rea family is one of the oldest Franklin county families, the grandfather settling in the northwest part of the county where the Rea settlement was founded. It is of record that he owned one of the first stores in the county. C. D. Rea, the father, purchased considerable land in the neighborhood where the city of Valier is now located, this city being built on land formerly owned by him. It was here the Rea brothers were born and reared - Hosea on March 8, 1876 and S. C. D. on Nov. 27, 1885. Other members of the family are a sister, Mrs. Roberta Rea of Arkansas City, Kan., and Copple, a member of the Dimond Motor Sales Co. of Benton.

The Rea brothers began their business experience early in life, and did not take time for a higher education although S. C. D. went through the Benton High School. Their first active business as partners was in the real estate and timber business at Valier in 1906. They came to Benton in 1910 and engaged in the real estate and insurance business which has developed into one of the most important of the county. Their present place of business is the old quarters of the First National Bank, where they also conduct the business of the Building and Loan Association of which S.C.D. is secretary. Hosea and S. C. D. Rea have always taken an active interest in county and city affairs, the former serving his county as supervisor o f Tyrone township and later as commissioner of Benton. S. C. D. was mayor of Benton, term of 1915-19. They are both Masons.

FOUR generations of Brownings have left their stamp upon the history of Illinois. The first representative of the Browning family settled in what is now Franklin county, in 1776. They were pioneers in the fullest sense of that most expressive word. Thomas S. Browning, the immediate subject of this sketch is the grandson of John Browning who settled at Browning Hill in 1804, coming from North Carolina via Tennessee thence to Illinois in 1796.

Levi Browning in 1841 opened up a general store in Benton. For years he was compelled to "tote'' his goods from Chicago, then a small town, by oxen team. His son, Thomas S. Browning, assisted his father in the store until his death July 22, 1905. After this our subject was employed by the Commercial Agency of R. G. Dun & Co. for ten years, then one year as a commercial salesman. In 1908 he began business for himself in the Levi Browning building which had been built on the old Browning corner as a memorial. Since starting in business Mr. Browning has again built up a mercantile business which will no doubt become a monument for the Browning family for other generations.

Thomas S. Browning was married to Miss Juliette E. Robertson, daughter of M. W. and Malvina (Dunaway) Robertson of Marion. Mr. and Mrs. Browning are the parents of three children, Barton R. deceased, Thomas Samuel, employed by the C. W. & F. Coal Co., Chicago and Levi M. a Junior in the Benton High School. Mr. Browning has always been a popular citizen taking an active part in his town and county affairs and served for several years as county clerk and city clerk. He is a thirtysecond degree Mason, Elk and member of the Court of Honor. For twenty years a Grand Lecturer in the Masonic fraternity and member of the Grand Lodge committee for sixteen years.

1"")0SSIBLY the most recent automobile A sales company to be organized in Franklin county is that of the Benton Motor Sales Company, which is a trade name assumed by Eagle Summers for the large business he is rapidly building.

Mr. Summers is a veteran of the World War, enlisting in the aviation department on December 15, 1917, and serving at Scott Field as an aviation mechanic until discharged June 2, 1919. His picture and service record appear in the Honor Roll section of this book.

Eagle Summers was born February 24, 1895, son of Andrew and Altha (Summers) Summers. Andrew Summers is a prosperous farmer and stock dealer of Akin, and Eagle industriously assisted his father until 1912 when he secured the agency for the Ford automobile. He soon became a proficient automobile salesman and became identified with the Dimond Motor Sales Company as their representative in the townships of Northern, Cave and Eastern, continuing in this work until enlisting in the service. Upon returning from the army he again took up the selling of automobiles, but desiring a garage and more complete facilities for work, purchased the present place from L. C. Bayless. He now has the county agency for the Garner automobile and there is little doubt that he will soon be numbered among the leading automobile dealers of the county.

The Benton Auto Sales Company employs as its leading mechanic, Fred Sexton, who is considered one of the most dependable automobile mechanics of the county.