Grundy County, Illinois - Thk Part of Biography Ix General History, 1914 (part 3 of 11)

CLAYI'OOL, Henry C. (deceased), whose tragic death plunged Morris into mourning when he passed away in 1905, was one of the leading men of Grundy County. He was horn in Grundy County, March 31, 18.r>2, a son of L. YV. and Caroline B. (Palmer) Claypool. Beared upon a farm in Grundy County, Mr. Claypool was an agriculturalist until thirty years old. but at that time came to Morris to assume the duties of the office of Deputy County Clerk", and after four years in that office became manager for the Chicago Lire-proofing Company. He was also for eight years cashier for the Coleman Hardware Company, and in March. 1S9S, was appointed postmaster of Morris, being in office at the time of his demise. In 1S73, he was married to Miss Annie M. Brown, and they had one daughter, Carrie M. Mr. Claypool was a strong Republican and a leader in his party. For many years he was extremely prominent in Masonic circles, serving as Commander of Blaney Comma ndery for one term several years prior to his second election to that same exalted office. It was upon the first initiation after his accession to office that he was stricken down in the lodge rooms, and there died in spite of all tb^t could be done for him by the best medical authorities. Lew men stood as high in public esteem as he, and although some years have elapsed since his death, it is impossible to converse for any length of time with one of his old associates, without his name coming into tin conversation.

CLAYPOOL, L. W. (deceased).--Thc name of Claypool is closely associated with the history of Grundy County, and no one man did more tor it and Morris than L. W. Claypool, horn in Brown County. Ohio. June 4, 1S19, a son of Jacob C. and Nancy (Ballard) Claypool. The Claypool family came to Grundy County, HI., in 1S34, and settled in Waupousee Township. Mr. Claypool immediately became an important factor in the history of his period and in 1S41 was elected County Recorder, and was made the first postmaster of Morris. In 1S4S, he was appointed by the canal trustees, assistant agent of the canal lands located in La Salle and Grundy Comities, and assisted in laying out that part of Chicago in and around Bridgeport. For years he represented Waupousee Township on the County Board of Supervisors and later was supervisor from Morris. On November lu, ]s]!i, he married Caroline P.. Palmer, a daughter of John Palmer of Ottawa, and two sons horn to them lived to maturity, namely: II. ('., who was born March 31, 1S52 ; and L. Y\\, Jr., who was horn October 13, Iscat.

CLENNON, James Patrick, one of the heaviest landowners of Aux Sable Township. Grundy County, and a man widely known and universally respected, was bom in Layette County, Ohio, at Washington Courthouse. November S. Is lit. a son of Patrick and Margaret (Whalen) Clennon. natives of Queens County. Ireland. Until bis marriage. James Patrick Clennon remained at home, but then took up his residence on his father's land in Aux Sable Township. After the death of his father, he erected a large modern frame residence on the property. As lie was the only son. he inherited the 040 acres of his father's' estate in Aux Sable Township, to which he has added, until be now owns 1,420 acres, all in this same township, of which ho farms 420 acres, renting the balance. In addition to this Grundy County property, he owns 120 acres in Seward Township. Kendall County.

On May 3. 1SS2, Mr. Clennon was married to Jennie Kinsella. horn in Aux Sable Township, a daughter of Andrew and Eliza (Smith) Kinsella. natives of County Wexford, Ireland. Mr. and Mrs. Clennon are the parents of these children: Andrew G.. who was born June 7. 1SS3; Cornelius J., who was horn May 2S, 1SS5; Mary L.. who was born May 14, 1*87 : John F., who' was horn March 28. 1880; Catherine H.. who was horn May 28, 1S91 ; Leo P., who was born July 31, 1893: Margaret M., who was born July 4. 1895; and Gerald, who was born October 4. iooo.

Mr. Clennon is a well educated man. as he attended the Christian Brothers Catholic academe of LaSalle. Illinois, and SI. Mary's school of Minooka. and he belongs to St. Mary's Church of the latter city. He has served as highway commissioner, having been elected on the Dem- ocratic ticket. At present lie is president of the Farmers First National Bank of Minooka, having held that oflice since the organization of the hank. lie also holds stock in the Minooka Grain and Lunther & Supply Company of Minooka, and is one of the substantia] men of ins part of the county.

COLLEPS, George. - Financial stability must be the foundation stone upon which all great enterprises are erected, and for this reason the banking interests of a community are necessarily among the most important. Tin- men who control and conserve the money of individual or corporation must possess numerous qualities not required of the- ordinary citizen, among which may he mentioned high commercial integrity, judgment and foresight, and exceptional financial ability. A citizen who has been prominently connected with the financial interests of Grundy County, during nearly forty years is George Colleps, proprietor of the Exchange Bank, at Minooka. and a business man of high standing. lie was born in the city of Buffalo, N. Y.. March 10, 1S49, a son of John and Margaret (Schroder) Colleps, natives of Frankfortou-tho-Rhine, Germany. The parents came to the United States in 1S49, and after a short stay in New York State moved to Hillsboro County, Mich., the father being there engaged in agricultural pursuits. In 1S54 the family came to Minooka, 111., where Mr. Colleps was overseer for the farm of R. Gardner & Company until 1S77, and at that time he retired from active pursuits. He died August IS, 1905, at the age of eighty-six years, the mother passing away in April, 1902, when eighty-two years of age.

George Colleps was reared to agricultural pursuits and remained tinder the parental roof until his enlistment, March 23, 1S64, when a lad of only fifteen years, in Company G, Sixty-fourth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, for service during the Civil War. lie participated in a number of battles and was almost constantly under fire until his capture in front of Atlanta. .Inly 22, 1SG4, at which time he also lost his left eye by the bursting of a shell, lie was taken to Andersouville Prison, where he suffered untold agonies until March Hi. 1S05, being then taken to Black River Bridge, Miss., for exchange, when he was sent to the hospital at Jefferson Barracks, Mo., and received his honorable discharge in May. ISO-!. At the close of his career as a soldier, Mr. Colleps returned to his parents' home at Minooka, where he remained three years, and then became a salesman in a general dry goods store, and was thus employed until the spring of ls72. At that time, in partnership with YV. A. Worthing, he embarked in the hardware business, under the firm style of Worthing & Colleps, and this association continued for three years. Mr. Colleps then disposed of his interests to his partner, and returned to the grocery and general dry goods business. In the summer of 1^77 he entered the grocery business in partnership with Leauder Smith, and was so engaged until 1SS1, when he sold his interest to his partner, and subsequently accepted a position as bookkeeper for A. K. Knapp, a grain, coal and lumber merchant at Minooka. In February, 1905, Mr. Knap;, died and Mr. Collep* took charge of the business which he managed until August 1. T.ios. when he sold out to the Minooka Grain, Lumber and Supply Company. In the meantime, in 1S75, Mr. Colleps had established a private bank at Minooka, and of this he has continued the head through all these years. The confidence in which he is held has been demonstrated by the large business which he is doing as a banker, and the Exchange Bank is widely known and has a justly merited reputation for stability and firmness.

In September. 1S92, Mr. Colleps was married to Miss Jennie V. V;m Horn, who was born in New Jersey, daughter of John and Martha (Terbium) Van Horn, natives of Pennsylvania, and to this union there have been born three children: Martha, win. married C. W. Brown. Jr., of Joliet, 111.; George W., a resident of Eagle, Colo.; and Bessie N.. who resides al home. A Republican in his political views, Mr. Colleps has screed as Village Treasurer and Village Trustee and in these capacities has rendered his community signal service. He is prominent in Masonry, belonging to Lodge No. 52s, ]-'. & A. M.. Blancy Commandery of Morris, and Medinah Temple. <>r Chicago. He also holds membership in Lodge No. 290, B. P. O. E., of Joliet. Mr. Colleps has taken an active part in the development and progress of Minooka, and his connection with its rising business and financial interests entitles him to a place among the representative men of Grundy County.

COLLINS, Cryder. - The opportunities given Grundy County farmers to acquire more than a competence are many, for not only is the soil fertile, but the transportation facilities are excellent and the agriculturists can market their produce rapidly and profitably. One of those who have taken advantage of these opportunities is Cryder Collins of Saratoga Township. who is operating the homestead of his uncle. He was horn in this township, April I.",. IS55. a Son of Joshua and Harriet I Cryder) Collins, natives of X«v York State ami Ohio, respectively. They were brought to Saratoga Township, Grundy County, in childhood, married here, and afterward settled on the farm now operated by their grandchildren. Clifford. Mabel and Jessie. The father erected a log house on his farm, and they lived there until his death, which was occasioned by a stroke of lightning on June 14. 1S79. Following this, his widow moved to Morris, where she lived until her death. January 1 S, 1003. The children born to them were: Virginia, who is Mrs. Story Mattisou. of Morris; Mar.\ M.. who died in infancy; Sarah, who is deceased; Cryder; llattie, who is Mrs. J. A. Wilson, of Morris: and Joshua, who is deceased. .

Normal school. After leaving school, Mr. Col- decided to try their fortunes in the West and lins went to live with Story Mnttison on a part ' came to Illinois, landing in Chicago on Septemol' the Collins estate, and remained there over ber 10, 1S34. The trip from Chicago to what is and Mrs. Collins became the parents of two ehil- with fortitude until they had founded a perdreii : Isaac, who is ,m home, and Jennie, who is manent home. Joshua and Margaret Collins

Mrs. Collins died September 7. 1801. On Feb- Phillip, Margaret, George, Joshua and Jereruary 11, 1S07, Mr. Collins married (second) miah, twins; Catherine, Edward and Franklin.

ond marriage Mr. Collins has two children : Elva Jeremiah Collins was fourteen years old when and Philip. A staunch Uepublicau, Mr. Collins he came to Illinois with his parents and lived served as justice of the peace since 1S90. A in Grundy County all the rest of his life, set- Mason, he belongs to the local Chapter and tling in Saratoga Township when he was' twenty Conunaiidry at Morris and Medinah Temple, years old. He hauled the first load of wheat Mystic Shrine, Chicago. An excellent farmer from his township to Chicago in 1S41, his father and good business man. Mr. Collins has made being in poor health at the time the trip was a success of his work and is highly esteemed made, in order to procure medicine and supby all who know him. plies, previous preparation being the trampling supervisors who has home well his part in this Mr. Collins' first enterprise was the purchasadvancement is Frank W. Collins, one of the ing of eighty acres of land in Saratoga Townprogressive agriculturists of (loose Lake Town- ship. By continued industry he prospered and ship. He was horn on his present farm Febru- came into possession of several thousand acres ary 2G, 1SS2, son of Joshua R. and Anna (Hoi- of the best farm laud in Illinois. He was marroyd) Collins, natives of Grundy and Kendall ried in 1S43 to Miss Hannah Cryder. daughter Counties, respectively. of Michael and Eva Cryder. of Pennsylvania.

Frank W. Collins attended the local schools Two years later Mrs. Collins died, also their inand the High school and Brown's Business col- fant son. Phillip Henry. On November Hi. is:,::, lege of Ottawa. Illinois. In 1904 he took charge Mr. Collins was wedded to Margaret W. Widof the homestead in Goose Lake Township, and. ney, daughter of John and Mary Widney, of man widely and favorably known and his sue- .".1. 1SSG; Mary Elizabeth, now Mrs. II. C. Ilencess in life is well merited. derson, now residing in Chicago, 111.: and Louanna M.. who died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs.

Leaxper A. Peacock

Jerciuiah Collins was elected supervisor of Joshua R. Collins was brought up on his Saratoga Township in 1Ss2. and served in that father's farm, remaining at lumie until twenty capacity for ten years. At the time of his years of age. At that time he began working death he was the only surviving voter of the in the L'niou Stock Yards at Chicago and concounty election of LS41. Tims passed away one tinned there for four years, when he returned of the oldest pioneers of Grundy County, who to Gruudj County, and invested in a farm in had watched the city of Morris grow from a Goose Lake Township. .This lie operated, carsingle house to its present proportions, and had rying on general farming and stock raising and observed the farms in the surrounding country- feeding for the Chicago market, until l!«>2, produce wealth and thrive under the industrious when he moved to Morris, and, with his brother, hands of the sturdy pioneers. The famih tree (Near K., looked after their combined acreage, of the Collins family consists of four genera- which amounts to 10,000 acres, all in the vicintions, and the relatives are numerous through- ity of .Morris. This property is worked by a out this section of Illinois. Mr. Collins was a number of tenants. In 1003 Mr. Collins bought man of indomitable courage, thrifty and indus- a lot 04x132 feet, on the corner of Liberty and trioiif?. yet open-handed: wherever there was West Jackson streets. Morris, whicb he later need, lie was financially interested to a great sold to his father. The latter erected on it a extent in the Grundy County National l'.ank of fine three-story building covering the entire lot, Morris for many years. At time of death he and in it. on the ground floor, Mr. Collins estabwas probably the oldest settler in Grundy lished the Farmers & Merchants National Hank. County. with himself as president : E. a". Matteson, Vicepresident; Henry Stocker. Cashier, and William prise, being fitted by natural ability and oxperi- office at 1<>7 West Jackson street, where all busience to make a success of their undertakings. ness connected with the farms is transacted, in- organized companies and instituted reforms On November .".(>, LS7S, Mr. Collins was marwhich all have tended to increase the prestige ried to Anna Holroyd, born in Livingston of the county seat. One of these represeuta- County, Illinois, daughter of Benjamin and Ann tive business men is J. R. Collins. President of Holroyd. natives of England. One son, Frank the Farmers & Merchants National Rank of W.. was horn of this marriage, lie conducts Morris. Mr. Collins was horn in Saratoga the home farm for his father. Mr. Collins is a Township, November 13. 1^34. a son of Jeremiah Progressive and served as supervisor of Goose and Margaret (Widney) Collins, natives of Lake Township for one term, as well as in all Coeynians, N. Y.. and 1'iqua, Ohio. Jeremiah the township offices, and since coming to Morris Collins was a son of Joshua and Margaret was an alderman for one term. A Mason, he (Rowe) Collins, natives of New England. The belongs to the Blue Lodge. Orient Chapter, maternal grandparents were Jonathan and Commandery and Medinah Shrine, the latter of Mary (Henderson) Widney, natives of Pennsyl- Chicago. The educational advantages of Mr. vania. Joshua Collins came with his family Collins were superior to many farmer hoys, for to Grundy County in 1s:;4. making the trip he not only attended a select high school at by way of (he Great Lakes to Chicago, and Morris, but was graduated from Onarga senithence by wagon. Tliey entered land in iuary. A man of sterling worth, Mr. Collins has Aux Sable Township, hut a few years later always been ready and aide to go ahead with moved to Saratoga Township, where they any project ami bring it favorably before the bought more land. These grandparents both public. His standing in financial circles is tindied on the latter farm in the early forties. The impeachable, and his high position is well susmaternal grandparents came to Kendall County fained. in 1840, and there spent the remainder of their useful lives. COLMAN, John N. - The Hickory Grove Farm,

Jeremiah Collins and his wife were married of Mazon Township, is known far and wide for in Kendall County, but moved immediately the excellence of its product, its horses and thereafter to a farm he owned in Saratoga other stock commanding the highest prices. Its Township. Here they resided, improving their owner. John Column, understands farming in all property and raising stock upon an extensive of its details and has developed into one of the scale. Mr. Collins held all of the county offices. leading agriculturists of Grundy County. He nnd was a well known man at the time of his was born in Vienna Township October 1. ISO'o. death. February 12, 1010. His widow resided a son of Thomas and Catherine (Nelson) Colin Morris until her death. March 22, 1014. The man of Vienna Township. children born to Jeremiah Collins and wife John Column was reared in bis native town- ship, where he attended the district schools arid schools of LaSalle County, but study and obsergave Ins father a sen's service on the farm until vation have since made him a well-informed he was twenty years old, with the exception of man. In 1S5G he came to Xonnan Township, two winters spent at the Dixon school. At that Grundj County, where he purchased a farm of age he commenced working for Dr. Elliott in his 1G0 acres of wild prairie land, paying $10 per drug store at Verona, and for a year received acre, and in 1SG1 became tin- owner of eighty $10 per month for his labor. Realizing that acres of improved land. .Mr. Column was marthere was much more to lie made at farming, he ried in 18(10 t<> .Miss Emily Sharp, who was horn sensibly left the drug store and engaged in agri- in New York, daughter of Joseph Sharp, an cultural pursuits until 1S95, when he was able early settler of Grundy County. Mrs. Colman to buy his present L'Pi acre farm in Ma/.on died in 1SG2, and in 1SGJ Mr. Colman married Township, on which lie raises horses, lions and Catherine Nelson, who was horn in lVnnsylcattle. lie is a stockholder in the Farmers vania, daughter of Solon ami Adeline Nelson,

Elevator at Mazon and also the Grundy County also early settlers of Grundy County. After Fair Association. marriage Mr. and Mrs. Colman resided on the On September 12. 1SSS, Mr. Colman married Norman Township farm until 1S73. when they Mary C. Stoner of Vienna Township, who was disposed of it and bought another tract of 1G0 born December 14, 1SG7, ami they have had two acres, to which Mr. Colman lias since added, children: Howard, born September IS, 1S01, and until lie now has 300 acres, all in Vienna Town- Clarence, horn June- 19, 1S93, both of whom ate ship, in a fine state of cultivation. For years at home. Mrs. Colman is a daughter of Jacob he was engaged in general grain farming, in and Caroline i Nance i Stoner, the former of which he was successful, as he was 'also in the whom was from Pennsylvania, but became a raising of stock, and lie was considered one of fanner in Vienna Township, where bis death the best judges of cattle in the township. Since occurred in 1SS3. and was survived by his widow 1900 lie has been practically retired, although until LS93. They had seven children: Dealton, ne supervises the operations on his property. who is deceased; Charles, who lives in Iowa; On it he has made improvemnts of a modern and Ervin, who lives in Minnesota: Luella Satterly, valuable nature, and his operations have always who lives in Missouri; Clysses S., who lives in been conducted along the most advanced linos. Iowa; Mrs. Colman, and Sadie, who is living at In his religious belief Mr. Colman is a Univer- Streator. 111. Mr. Colman is a Knight Templar. salist. lie served as road commissioner, super- Mason, and a Republican, politically : has served visor for two years, and school trustee. Fraon the school board for fourteen years, and is ternally he is connected with the Masons. No. a representative man in every respect. Mrs. 7~-7 A. F. iV: A. M., of Verona, III. Mrs. Colman Column's grandfather. Eaton Nance, was in passed away in January. 1901, having been the the War of 1S12. He ami his wile died in Mis- mother of live children, two of whom died in souri at the age of eighty-six years. infancy. The survivors are: John N.. who married .Alary Stoner. and they have two sons, IIow- COLMAN, Thomas S. - One of the old and ard and Clarence, of M.izon Township; Guy, honored residents of Grundy County, who has «liu married Nellie Bowman, resides at home been a witness to and a participant in the won- with his father, and Willin in. who is also on the derful progress which has made this section one home farm, and married Nettie Whittou, and of the most prosperous fanning communities in they have two children. Pearl and Verne, the State, is Thomas S. Colman, whose home is located in Vienna Township. Although now re- COMERFORD, George, who was one of the piotired somewhat from active pursuits, he still neers of Aux Sable Township, was born in takes an active interest in all that effects his County Wexford, Ireland, August 3, 1S20, a son adopted locality, and is known as one of the of William and Ilonora (Nolan) Comerford. township's substantial and public-spirited men. The family came to the T'nited States in 1S50, Mr. Colman was born in Putnam County, Illi- and bought 500 acres of land in Aux: Sable nois, August 2. 1S3S, and is a son of John and Township. After coining to Grundy County. Mary A. (Chitenden) Column. George Comerford engaged in railroad survey- John Colman was bom in 17t>7 in the State ing and later in the railroad construction of of Vermont and was there married to Mary A. the Chicago, Rock rsland & Pacific Railroad. He Chitenden. who was born in isos. in New llamp- was the first railroad agent and postmaster of shire. In 1S35 they traveled by wagon to llli- Minooka, serving in the latter office for nine nois. stopping in Grundy County one night at years, and he built some of the first business the home of Joshua Collins, and then continuing houses of the village, including the Comerford on their way to Florida, Putnam County. Mr. block, and still later became a merchant. In Colman entered government land just over the addition he owned 1C0 acres of land near Micounty line in LaSalle County, and there died nooka which he improved to a considerable May 2. ISP). extent. Mr. Comerford was elected to all the Thomas S. Colman was then not eleven years major offices within the gift of his fellow-tow nsof age, but was the oldest son and the duties men and was a man of importance in his day. of the farm fell upon his shoulders. His edu- With a liberal broad-mindedness he gave creneational advantages were of the slightest, erously towards the support of both the t'athbeing confined to two terms in the district olic and Methodist churches, the two religious bodies whicb have founded churches in Aux Sable Township, and was very charitable. For sonic years he was president of the Hoard of Education, and was associated with the educational development of his township. On September 10, 1S55, he married Catherine Smith, and their three children to attain to maturity were: Thomas S-, Nicholas J., and Mary C.

CONDON, Frank D. - Real worth and true merit are often recognized in this great republic of ours, and some of the men who have attained to political distinction arc from the ranks of the younger generation of business men. One who has received mure than ordinary recognition at the hands of his fellow-citizens is Frank ]>. Condon of Morris, the present capable city clerk, who is proprietor of a large cigar factory at No. 2 lie. Liberty street. Mr. Condon was born November 15, 1S70. at Morris. 111., sun of Cornelius and Eveline (Davidson) Condon, natives of Ireland, and of New York State. The father came to this country when a buy. first living in Kentucky, but later located at Morris, 111., where be was a coal miner. Here he married., brought up his family of eight children. Frank D. Condon being the fifth in order or birth.

Growing up in Morris. Frank 1>. Condon early learned the value of hard work intelligently directed, and received a good, public school training. In 1900 Mr. Condon learned the trade of a cigarmaker. and in 1001 went into business for himself, buying out T. B. Hinds at No. l'I-JVj Liberty street, where lie has since continued. Mr. Condon gives employment to four men. and his brand-- are: The Del Marca, a ten-cent cigar, and the "White Crow, a five-cent variety, both good sellers, in large demand because of their superior flavor and blend. Ii is as a Republican that Mr. Condon has been called upon to fill more than one office within the gill of the people of Morris, in 1907 being elected city treasurer, and after two years of efficient service was elected city clerk, to which important office he was re-elected in 1911, and is the present incumbent. In every respect he has justified his selection, and givo.i the city an honest, businesslike administration of the affairs of the several offices under his charge.

In 1903 Mr. Condon married Martha Emerson, daughter of Elias Emerson, ami they have one child, Frank. Mr. Condon belongs to the Masonic fraternity, is an Odd Fellow, having passed all the chairs in the subordinate lodge, and for two years was secretary of the Encampment, and he also belongs to the Eagles, all of Morris. Straightforward, energetic, a man of action. Mr. Condon has won and retains the confidence and friendship of the leading people of the capital city of Grundy County.

CONDON, James, dealer in and manufacturer of drain tile and brick, at Mazon, 111., lias been in this line of business for some time, operating under the name of James Condon, and has proven his ability and business reliability, as well as his worth as a citizen. His plant comprises three kilns and employment is given to fourteen men. Mr. Condon was born in Ireland in 1S73, and is a son of Patrick and Nellie (O'Neil i Condon, who came to (he United States in ISM, locating at Morris, Ilk, near where the father farmed until he went to Joliet, Ilk. in 1904, where he is now living in retirement. lie and wife were the parents of nine children, of whom the following are living: Mrs. Johanna Mahouey. Mrs. Lizzie Worrell, .lames, Patrick, of Morris, and John and Thomas, of Joliet.

Growing up in Grundj County, .lames Condon was given the advantages of the schools here, and from the time he was ten years old was selfsupporting, working by the month. In l.x!is he proved his patriotism by enlisting for service in the Spanish- American War, and was honorably discharged in isini. Coming back to Grundy County, he resumed his agricultural operations which his career as a soldier had interrupted, ami in 1900 he began farming for himself, thus continuing until 1905, when lie moved to Kansas. Two years later, uowever, he traded his farm there for the tile facto-y, and has seen no reason to be sorry for such action. In 1900 Mr. Condon married Bell Jacobson of Lis',. on. 111. Mr. Condon belongs to the Masonic fraternity and is a Knight Templar, being connected with the Commandery at Morris, and is also a member of the Eastern star. In politics lie is a Republican. A young man of exceptional business ability he has steadily advanced and is rightly numbered anion- the leading manufacturers of Mazon.

acres of land even if it is located in so desirable a section as Grundy County. If the land is properly operated it will yield handsomely, but constant effort and intelligent care are necessary requisites. One of the men who is proving this, ami that he is able to meet all the requirements of a good farmer is Fred Coop, owner of 1'lit acres of as line land as can be found in Saratoga Township, if not in Grundy County, lie was born in Lancashire, England, May 8. 1.952, a son of John and Mary (Saudi ford) Coop, who came to Grundy County when their son Fred was an infant. Settling on a farm in Aux Sable Township they developed into substantial people.

Until he was sixteen years old Fred Coop remained at home, receiving his educational training in the district schools. He then began working for his brother-in-law, Ralph Heap, of Seward Township, Kendall County, 111., thus continuing for three years and then rented land which he farmed for three years more. At this time he married and spent the following four years on the farm owned by his mother-in-law, in Lisbon Township, but al the expiration of that period went to Mrs. Cryder's farm in Aux Sable Township, this county, and later bought eighty acres of land in Saratoga Township. There was an old house on the' place which served as a homo until 1S96, when he replaced it with a handsome modern frame dwelling. At the same time he has kept on adding to his holdings until he now owns 240 acres of fine land which is a match for any in the county. On this property Mr. Coop raises fine stock, cattle and hogs, specializing on registered Norman horses, and 1 is stallion is a magnificent animal. On March is. lsTo. Mr. Coop married -Sarah Ripley, horn in Lisbon Township, Kendall County, 111.. November ti, 1852; a daughter of William and Elizabeth (Stanford) Ripley, natives of England. Mr. and Mrs. Coop are the parents of the following children: Erwin, who is of Aux Sable Township, was horn Octolior 2S, 187(1, and married Irene Bushiiell, and they have one daughter. Sila 10. : Wilbur, who is also of Aux Sable Township, born April Is. isjs. married Stella 1. George, and they have one daughter. Marjorie A.: Frank, born November .2G, 1SS1, lives at home; and Kay. horn August 29, ISM',, at home, married Nettie Hove. Mr. Coop has served as a school director since 1S97, being elected on the Republican ticket. He is an excellent tanner and good business man. and has honestly earned his prosperity.

CRAGG, George H. - It is difficult to believe that within active years of residents of Grundy County the wonderful agricultural development, so apparent on every side, has been accomplished, hut George II. Cragg. one of the substantial farmers and foremost citizens of Maine Township, can recall when his fertile and highly cultivated acres were nothing hut raw. swamp prairie land. He was horn in his father's log house on Section 19, Maine Township. Grundy County. 111.. April 5, 1sp>. in which year his father was largely instrumental in having Grundy County organized. His parents were John and Agnes (Litchult) Cragg.

John Cragg was horn in 1s<>;;, in Cheshire, England. In 1S23 he crossed the Atlantic Ocean to the United States and located at Paterson, N. J. Shortly alter his arrival he was united in marriage with Agnes Litchult. who was a native of Paterson, and an admirable woman in every relation of life. To this marriage there were lxirn four sous and one daughter: Edward. Joseph, Martin. George II. and Louisa, the only survivor being George II. Cragg, of Grundy County. Sometime in the "twenties'" John Cragg' settled at Ottawa. 111., where he followed his trade of machinist, several years later moving to St. Louis. Mo., but returning to Ottawa in a few' years and continuing to live in the village for one year longer before settling permanently in what was then the eastern part of La- Salle County, the same now forming Grundy County. John Cragg was a man of sterling character and became a man of prominence in the new county, serving many years in the office of supervisor and repeatedly as justice of the peace.

as was the custom, native intelligence and a desire to learn assisting more than any educational opportunities ever afforded him. He assisted on the farm as soon as old enough and began the reclamation and development which has completely changed the landscape, in the last fifty years, in Grundy County. On February 17, ISCm, he enlisted for service in the Civil War, which was continuing its ravage's, entering the One Hundred and Fifty-sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, in which he served until the close of strife, and was stationed for some months near Nashville and Chattanooga, Tenn. His patriotic duty done. Mr. Cragg returned to Grundy County and resumed farming operations and ever since has devoted himself largely to agricultural pursuits, intelligently adopting scientific methods and proving their efficacy, lie owns ISO acres of tine land' situated in Maine and Mazon Townships.

On February 17. 1SG1. Mr. Cragg was married at Chicago. 111., to Miss Rachel Bridel, who was hem in England, April 30, 1S40, and was brought to the United states in 1S44, her parents being pioneers in Grundy and Kendall Counties. Illinois. The following children were born to Mr. and .Mrs. Crag-: Alice, who is the wife of Joseph II. Franc-is, who is the present Sheriff of Grundy County; Robert N., who is a resident of Grand Island. Nebraska; Cora, who is the wife of James Bray, and Emma, who is the wife of George Marsh. Mr. Cragg and family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Mr. Cragg started his political career as an Abraham Lincoln Republican, voting for him in lSOO. and for every succeeding candidate of the Republican party for the Presidency until 1912, when he became a Progressive and worked and voted for Theodore Roosevelt. He has never been an office seeker, but when elected has served faithfully as School Director. School Trustee and Highway Commissioner. He has always taken a deep interest in the public schools, is an advocate of good roads and of all those things which promote good government, good feeling. neighborly interest and social comfort ami contentment.

CRANE, Harry V. - Classed among the energetic and progressive agriculturists of Grundy County is found Harry V. Crane of Section 4, Good Farm Township, the owner of a property comprising 1G0 acres, and a citizen who lias always been identified with the best interests of his community. He is a native of Grundy County, born June 21, 1S73. a son of Thaddeus and Phoebe (Thompson) Crane, the former a native of Vermont and the latter of New York. The parents were married at Elmira, N. Y.. and came to Grundy County. Illinois, in 1SC.2. here passim: the remainder of their lives, the father dying March 23, 1908. and the mother AiiL-nst 13, 1911. Both are buried in Braceville cemetery. They were the parents of five children: Charles and Frank, who died on the same day of cholera, and are buried in Essies cemetery, in Kankakee Comity, Illinois; Fred, a resident of

Harr.\ V. Crane obtained a district school education and was brought up to agricultural pursuits, lie remained on the home place until nineteen years of age, at which time he went to Chicago and secured employment in the freight house of the Pennsylvania & Fort Wayne Railroad, hut one year later returned to Greenfield Township and rented his lather's farm. He is now the owner of 120 acres of his father's estate, to which he has added an additional forty acres, and 120 acres of this property are located in Good Farm Township, his residence being on Section 4. Mr. Crane has been successful as a farmer and stock- raiser, and as an honorable and upright citizen has bad no difficulty in winning and retaining the respect and esteem of all with whom he has had dealings either in business or social life. He is a Democrat, and at this time is serving his second term as school director, and has been for a like period roar! commissioner. His fraternal connection is with t lie Ancient Order of Gleaners. With his family he attends the Church of God.

Mr. Crane was married Xovemljer 30. 1809. to .Miss .Myrtle Provance, who was born in La- Salle County, Illinois, daughter of George X. and Susanna (Balsinger) Provance, natives of Pennsylvania. Six children have been born to this union: Hazel Belle, horn .March 17. 1001: Olive May. hern December 2. 1903: Nellie Marie, born August 20, 100."}; Pearl Margaret, horn March 13, 1907; Marion Frances, horn January 22, 1010, and Frank Harry, born July 11, 1912.

CRONIN, Daniel G. - A substantia] hardware merchant, located at Morris, II]., has risen to the forefront among business men of this city by reason of bis reliability, industry and perseverance, lie is a native of Grundy County, 111., bom on a farm in Saratoga Township, March 31, 1ST.", and is a son of James D. and Mary (Redmond) Cronin. The paternal grandparents of Mr. Cronin. James anid Ellen (Brown) Cronin. were horn in Dublin, Ireland, and were there married. Some time thereafter they came to the United States and located at Morris. 111., Mr. Cronin receiving a contract for the building of a certain section1 of the Illinois and Michigan Canal, for completing which he was deeded 1C0 acres of land. This ho subsequently improved, spent the remaining years of bis life in farming, and became one of his community's substantial and highly esteemed citizens. James D. Cronin was horn in Morris. 111., and was there married to Miss Mary Redmond, a native of Aux Sable Township. Grundy County. 111. Not long thereafter they moved to the old homestead farm, which Mr. Cronin continued to operate until selling out to his twin brothers, and then moved to Watertown, S. D., where he is still making his home at the age of seventy-one years. His wife passed away in 1905.

Daniel G. Cronin was given good educational advantages, attending the Morris academy, the parochial schools and Watertown (,S. D.)*IIigh school, where he was a student for four years. lie resided with his parents until ten years alter they made removal to South Dakota, where lie was engaged in farming, and then returned to -Morris and engaged in business for his uncles, Thomas and Daniel Cronin, who had established a hardware store in 1S85, and had purchased an implement business in 1900, both at Morris, the two establishments being conducted together. Mr. ('renin remained with his uncles until both died, caring for them tenderly during their declining years. Thomas Cronin passed away July -I. W7. and Daniel, June :>, 1903. Since his uncles' death, Mr. Cronin has conducted the business and has made a decided success of the enterprise. lie now carries an up-to-date and complete line of heavy and shelf hardware, a full line of farm implements, firearms and ammunition, furnaces and stoves, and conducts a tinshop in connection, lie has always been noted for his good business judgment and strict integrity and to these may bo attributed a large part of his success.

Mr. Cronin was married August 21. 1900. to Miss Mary I'yrnes. who was horn at Morris, III., daughter of Peter Byrnes, a native of Canada. To this union there have been horn children as Gladys May, Eileen. Anna, Daniel, Thomas and Frank. Mr. and Mrs. Cronin are members of the Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception, and Mr. Cronin belongs to the Catholic Order of Foresters Xo. 210, of the Immaculate Conception, and Dupoul Terrace Xo. M.". Knights of Columbus. In political matters he is independent, preferring to vote for the man he deems best fitted for the office rather than support the choice of any particular political organization. His good citizenship has never been questioned.

CRYDER, Edwin T., a son of Michael and Rachacl (Thomas) Cryder, of Delaware County, Ohio, was horn in Aux Sable Township. Grundy County. June 29, 1.8~»y. His grandfather, Henry ('ryder. of Pennsylvania, came to Aux 'Sable Township in ls::.'i and secured some government land and soon brought it under what then was considered a very high state of cultivation. This farm was his home until his death. The maternal grandfather died in " Ohio, and his widow came to Aux Sable Township in 183(1 to make her home. Our subject's father and mother, soon after their marriage, commenced life together on a farm in Aux Sable Township, but in 1S.7T. having bought a tract of land in Saratoga Township, they removed to that place and remained for many years. On leaving this home they went to Kansas for a time, but returned to Illinois to make their permanent abode on a farm. Here both parents passed away.

when he was united with Miss Elizabeth Boyer, born in Bates County. Mo., June 11, 1SG0, a daughter of Joseph and Alinira (Walley) Boyer. Her father was a native of Pennsylvania, while her mother had been horn in Grundy County. 111.- Their respective parents were: John and Elizabeth (Krouse) Boyer, and George and Elizabeth (Thomas) Walley, George Waller -being born in Maryland, and his wife in Ohio. Mrs. Cryder's parents were married in Missouri, where her father died. August 11. 1SS6. The mother still lives on the old homestead.

Directly after his marriage, Mr. Cryder took possession of a splendid farm of 320 acres, which had been given him by his father, and to thi> he has added until it now aggregates some J r. 1 acres of productive land, which lies partly in Aux Sable Township and partly in Saratoga Township. On this farm he devotes his chief attention to the raising of blooded horses and cattle", producing the grain used in feeding, almost entirely at home. His property is widely known as the Grand View Farm and the stock that are marketed from this place always command a relatively high price. To Mr. Cryder and his wife the following children have been born : Dema i.uetta. Alvin Boyer. Morris Henry. Edwin Collins. Arthur Francis, Ethel Irene, and Charles Blaney. All the family belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church.' In politics Mr. Cryder is a Republican. lie has served for ten years as township clerk, giving the utmost satisfaction to all concerned, and in 1910 he was elected to till the office of justice of the peace, and in this office is serving at the present time, lie is a member of the Masonicfraternity.

CRYDER, Eugene G. - Among the representative agriculturists and stork raisers of Grundy County, who has long been connected with extensive operations in land and stock, and is well known in public life, is Eugene G. Cryder, owner of a handsome property in Saratoga Township. Mr. Cryder is a native of this township, having been born on the farm he now occupies. February 22, 1SC0, a son of Michael and Rachel (Thomas) Cryder, natives of Ross County, Ohio.

The paternal grandparents of Mr. Cryder. Henry ami Mary Ann tlless) Cryder. of Philadelphia, Pa., came in l^-'Y.) to Aux Sable Township, Grundy County, traveling across the country in a prairie schooner and here preempted land. Michel Henry Cryder. the father of Eugene C... was born March 21. 1S20. and died January .'11. 1894. He was married in Morris. 111.. March T. 1S41. to Rachel Thomas, who was born May Hi. lslT. and died January 2d. 190S. After their marriage they settled down first in Aux Sable Township where he farmed some years, hut subsequently came to Saratoga Township, where he purchased land in the prairie, from his father-in-law, John Thomas, and this he improved and kept adding to until he owned about 900 acres in one body. He was a general farmer and stock raiser, and his business ventures proved uniformly successful. He and his wife had the following children : Eliza, born January 3, 184S, who died August 27, 1854; Francis M., born November IS, 1S49, who died September -">. l^ol : Lewis II., born June 25, 1S53, who died August 21, 1854 ; Edwin T., born June 20, 1855, living in Saratoga Township; Eugene C. ; and Maryette, born October 25. ls~>7. who is now Mrs. W. L. Wainwright. of Morris.

Eugene C. Cryder was educated in the district schools and the Normal school at Morris, and until his marriage resided with his parents. < )n December 2:1. LSS4, he was united with Jennie Elizabeth Smith, who was born November 29. 1803, at Plattville, Kendall County, 111., daughter of Gideon Smith, born April 2. 1825, in Howard Township, Center County. Pa., and Mary E. (Boyer) Smith, born in Center County. July IS, 1S32. Mr. and .Mrs. Smith were married in Plattville, 111., in January, 1854, where he engaged in farming all his subsequent life. Mr. Smith died July 0. 1009, and his wife. June 19, 1S93. After his marriage. Mr. Cryder took up his residence on a part of his father's land in Saratoga Township, and in lyjj located on the old homestead, which lie has since conducted with well deserved success. A man of honoral le business principles, his reputation for integrity and probity is farreaching, and lie has many friends throughout this part of the State. Mr. and Mrs. Cryder have had the following children: Sida May, born September 29, 1SS5. who died August 17, ]ss7; Ethel .Maud, born Augusl 9, 1887, who is now Mrs. Donald Pyatt. of Fortville, End., has one daughter, Jean, born September 20, 1913; Mildred Harriet, born October 20, 1S92, who died May 3. 190G ; anil Ray Eugene, born November is. 1S97, at home. Mr. Cryder and his family are connected with the Methodist Episcopal Church. A Republican in politics, he has served ten years as town cleric, was supervisor for a long period, county surveyor for two years and chairman of the board of supervisors for a lengthy period. In his official capacities he devoted himself faithfully to the dischar.ee of his duties, and no citizen has rendered his community more signal service.

CULHAN, Robert. - Within the limits of Grundy County it would be difficult to discover a citizen who has been of more general worth to his community than is Robert Culhan. whose activities have served to materially aid the development of Erienna Township. Belonging to that self-made class of men of whom the Prairie State has such excellent reason to be proud, he has steadily forged his way to the front, and is today justly considered one of his locality's most substantial men. Mr. Culhan. as his name would indicate, is of Irish descent. He was born April 12. 1\.H, at Hillsboro, Ilk-bland County. 'O.. and is a son of Michael and Jane (Harvey) Culhan, born in Ireland. They were married in their native Erin and soon

Robert Culhan was still an infant when his father died, and the greater part of his education was secured in the schools of hard work and experience. He remained with his mother until reaching the age of six years, when he went to live with a family named Hughes, and when but fourteen years of aye began working among the farmers of Highland County. He so continued until reaching his seventeenth year, when lie went to Decatur, 111., in the vicinity of which city he worked for farmers until attaining his majority. At that time he turned his attention to railroading and went to Kankakee, 111., where lie secured employment with the Big Four Railroad, and for the next four years was engaged in construction work. Succeeding, this experience. Mr. Culhan came to Seneca, 111., and soon- rented a tract of laud in Erienna Township, and at' the end of nine years had been so successful in his ventures that he was able to purchase 107 acres of unimproved land. On this he erected a small house and began operations on his own account, improved and tiled the land, erected new buildings, and made a valuable and productive farm. In I00r> he purchased the 210 acres of land adjoining the home place, this tract being partly improved at the time, and he has since improved it all and put it under a high state of cultivation. Mr. Culhan lias always 1 n engaged in raising grain, and also breeds Belgian horses, a fine grade of cattle and Poland-China hogs. He built and added to his house, ami in 100s built a hay and horse barn. -10x00 feet. IS feet to the eaves. His operations have been carried on along strictly legitimate lines, and no citizen is more worthy of the esteem and confidence of his fellows.

On February 5, 1SS4, Mr. Culhan was married to Miss Ellen Barry, who was born in Grundy County, 111., February 2S, 1SG0. daughter of Richard and Bridget (Barrett) Barry, natives of Ireland. To this union there have been burn the following children : Cora Jane, born November 2G, 1SS4: Edward Francis, born March is, 1886, who died at the age of seven years; James, born September 20, IvsT. who died in 1SP0; George William, born September !). 1SS9 : Richard, born July 20, 1S92, who died in February, 1002; Robert John, born October 12, 1S03: Bernard Leroy, born January 0, 1S9G ; Michael Valerion, born August 2S, 1S07, who died aged three years and six months: and Leo Vincent, born February 2S, 1S99, who died when six and one-half year's old. Mr. and Mrs. Culhan are consistent members of the Catholic Church at Seneca. He is independent in his political views, has served as a School Director for nine years, and since 1000 has been a School Trustee. His fraternal connections are with the Modern Woodmen of America and the Knights of Columbus, both of Seneca.

CULLEY, Anthony Joseph. - In these days ol specialized endeavor a man has to know thoroughly some particular line in order to achieve any measure of success. One of those who has perfected himself as a mason until he has developed into a contractor of masonry, is Anthony Joseph Culley, of South Wilmington, 111., one of the substantial men of Grundy County. Mr. Culley was born in Belgium, in 1S66, a son of Nicholas and Mary (Doyen) Culley. These parents came to the United States iu 1SG9, locating at Braidwood, where the father carried on mining as he bad previously done in his native land. There he died in 1S93, being buried in the place of his adoption, but his widow survives, still making her home at Braidwood. There were eight children born to Nicholas Culley and wife: Seymour, Catherine, Anthony Joseph, Lydia, Charles, John, Abel and Anna, several being deceased.

Anthony Joseph Culley was two and one-half years old when he was brought to Braidwood where he grew up and attended the public schools until eleven years old when he began working for coal companies. In 1SS9, having learned to largely depend upon himself, he came to South Wilmington, when the town was in its infancy, and has lived here ever since, growing up with it as it were. He found opportunity for mason work, and has been engaged in all kinds of this class of construction work, and has labored to some purpose as he now owns his residence, and 120 acres in the vicinity of South Wilmington.

In IS'.i.", Mr. Culley was married to Elizabeth M. White of Braidwood, 111., and they have three children: Charles N., William C. and Agnes. They belong to the Baptist Church. Fraternally he is a Mason and a Knight of Pythias. A Republican in politics, he served three years on the school board from Greenfield Township, five years as assessor and for the past two years be has been supervisor, which office he still holds. In every way he has proven himself a worthy, efficient man, and his standing in his community is undisputed, as is his reputation for honest dealing and faithfulness in carrying out his contracts.

CUMMING, Clarence Earl, D. D. S. - The dontal profession of Grundy County, Ilk, is worthily and ably represented at Coal City by Dr. Clarence Far! dimming, who. through inclination, training and inherent skill has brought himself to the forefront in his profession. Doctor Gumming is now recognized as -the leading representative of his vocation in Coal City, and maintains well appointed offices over the City Drug Store. He is a native of Grundy County, having been born at Gardner. HI., October 10. 1SS2, and is a son of Thomas S. and .Mary (Blaney) ( 'unimitig.

Clarence Earl Camming received his early education in the public schools of Gardner, and also attended the High school there for one year. When he was twelve years of age. the family removed to Belleville, 111., and there he also attended the High school. When he was fourteen years of age he started his own battle with the world as an employe of the bottling factory at Belleville, and when the family removed to Staunton, III., in 1S9S, he became top man for the coal company there, his father being manager of the mine. About one year later the family returned to Gardner, and Doctor dimming worked with his father in prospecting for coal until the tall of 1905, at which time he took up the study of dentistry at the Lincoln Dental College, connected with the University of Nebraska. lie was graduated therefrom May 27. 190S, and was licensed to practice in ' Nebraska, hut shortly thereafter returned to Illinois, where he passed the examination of the State Board of Examiners. lie opened oflices in Coal City, June 21, 190S, and here has continued in practice to the present time. He is in the enjoyment of a large and representative professional business, and among his brethren in the calling is recognized as a man who has thoroughly mastered his science and who at all times respects its ethics.

On June 7, 1911, at Wheaton, 111.. Doctor dimming was married by Hew Thompson of the Methodist Church to Miss Ethel C. Rodgers, born .April 5, 1S90, near Coal City, daughter of Winfield Scott and Clara (Hill) Rodgers, and granddaughter of Delmar and Maria (Stallman) Hill. Mrs. Cumming's father was a farmer by occupation and belonged to one of the early families of Grundy County.

Politically Doctor Camming is a single-tax Democrat, having always been a follower of the Henry George doctrine. lie was one of the directors of the Illinois Aero Construction Company, located in Coal City, and is progressive in all matters, being ever ready to give his aid to whatever he considers beneficial to the interests of the village or its people. He is a member of I'si chapter of the Xi I'si Pin. a dental fraternity, of which he was the first treasurer. He was a charter member in Lincoln, Neb., having joined while attending the university there, and retained his office as treasurer until he graduated in 190S. He is also alliliated with the Blue Lodge of Masonry at Braidwood, 111., and Royal Arch Chapter No. 701, at Wilmington, III., also Eastern Star and Woodmen.

CUMMING, Thomas S - Thomas Stewart Gumming was born at Whitehall, Edinburgh County, Scotland, a son of Robert and Barbara (Proctor) Gumming, both natives of Edinburgh. His parents were married at Clay Barnes, Edinburgh County, Scotland, in 1S2S, where they lived for some time, and there their first son, James P., was born. Subsequently these three came to America, taking up their residence in Pottsville, Pa., and here it was that a daughter, Janet, was horn to them. After scarcely more than a year in this country, the family returned to Scotland, where Janet died, aged two years, and where the remaining eleven children were born. Of the thirteen children which constituted their family, but nine were spared to reach maturity. Their names are, in order of their birth: James 1'., John P., David, George A. I'.. Patrick M.. Elizabeth R., Thomas S., Marion, and Robert. All of these sons and daughters came, in later years, to America, to establish their permanent homes.

Thomas S. Gumming started his schooling at a very early age, attending the infant class at Cowdenfoot, and, finishing this at the age of five, was entered in the schools of Whitehill, studying history, geography, and arithmetic. This last named study -was the one toward which he seemed most naturally inclined, and he had just entered the class in plain geometry when he was forced to commence regular work at the mines in which Ins father worked, although he was not yet ten years old. His first ,iub was that of trapper, or door-tender, in the old Cowden Mine, and later was a helper to the eager; then a driver; and. when about fourteen years old. he went to pushing and loading, which is a direct apprenticeship to coal digging. For five years lie continued at mining in Scotland; but, in 1m;i;, he came to America, in company witli his parents, two sisters and his brother Robert, after landing coming directly to Gardner, HI. They reached their ultimate destination September 1, 1S6G, and have ever since that time considered Gardner their home town in this country. Some time after Gardner had become their home, Thomas left to take up a homestead in Smith County, Kansas, and here his father and mother came, in 1S7S, to live with him. Two years later the father died quite suddenly, and the mother was left ti.i survive him until she reached the age of eighty- live.

After coming to the Lnited States, Thomas G. Gumming divided the earlier decade of his residence between milling and farming; but his time was never so completely monopolized as to exclude his desire for a more specific and comprehensive education. In accordance with his views on this subject he took up the study of Geology and of mining problems, receiving much benefit from his perusal of The Colliery Engineer, published in Scranton, Ra. He also attended night school, with some enforced irregularity, but he worked with a purpose that more than made amends for dilliciencies in time. In 1SS3, he and his brother James, both qualified at the first examination held in the State, for Mining Inspectors, James receiving one of the appointments given by Governor Oglesby. Thomas then took a full course in the Scranton school; and. in IN!).'!, was appointed Inspector for the First District, two years later being transferred to the Sixth District, his appointment coming from Governor Altgeld. Subsequently Mr. Cumming taught mining classes in Braidwood, Braceville, Coal city. Carbon Hill, and Gardner, with splendid results to shew for his labor.

It was in 1SS0 that he returned to Illinois, after farming his homestead in Kansas, where the locust pest and the low prices on the products of bis farm, detracted somewhat from the expectatio is he had had. At that time it was not the high cost of living that caused discomfort ; but rather the excessive labor or products of labor that were necessary in order to get the dollar. He recalls hauling dressed pork a distance of Go miles, and selling it at two and one-half cents a pound. On his return to Gardner, he and his brother, John Cumining, contracted to sink a shaft, southeast of Gardner, for Taylor Williams, and when this shaft was completed, John became the nunc manager, while Thomas continued prospecting for coal. This engaged his time for a year or so, until he became County Mine Inspector, for a term of four years: later being state Inspector in the First and Sixth Districts. In 1895 he moved his headquarters to Bellville, and during the four years of his residence there was manager of the mines, near O'Fallon, 111., owned by the Consolidated Coal Co., of Alma. Minn. lie then undertook the management of .Mine Xo. G, at Stanton, 111., for the same company.

The family to which Mr. Camming belongs .relate an interesting hit of tradition pertaining to their early predecessors, the Cnmmings, of Cammernade, Bauiff shire, in the north of Scotland. The great-great-grandfather of our subject was the only son and heir to the large family estate. His father was dead and his mother had married again. One day. when he was but a mere boy, he came home from herding the flocks and found his stepfather beating his dearly beloved mother. The lad knocked her assailant down, with the shepherd's staff that he had in his hand, and then alarmed at what he had done, fled from home and wandered to Edinburgh County where he remained and became the progenitor of a great number of descendants.

From his early youth, Mr. Cumming has been fond of literature. He joined the Y. M. <'. A., at Dal Keith, and especially enjoyed the essays that were read and the debates and discussions that were held there. lie was but fourteen when he became a member of the Christian Brethren Church at Dal Keith. These things, which contributed to his pleasure in his youth, still hold for him their old-time enjoyment, for the hard knocks of the world have not changed him essentially. His interest in youth did not fade, as he himself grew to maturity, and he recounts, to his very young friends, the excitement of the games that were played in his boyhood, among which "Rounders and Prisoners" and "Smuggle the Geg" were the chief.

Politically. Mr.. Cummiug is what he would call a democratic Democrat. In the matter of taxation, he believes with Prof. T. II. Huxley that "even the best modern civilization appears to exhibit a condition of mankind which neither embodies any worthy ideal nor even possesses the merit of stability." Huxley says: "I do not hesitate to express the opinion that if there is no hope of a larger improvement of the condition of the greater part of the human family; if it is true that the increase of knowledge, the winning of a greater dominion over Nature which is its consequence; and the wealth which follows on that dominion, are to make no difference in the extent and the intensity of Want with its concomitant moral and physical degradation among the masses of the people, I should hail the advent of some Kindly Comet, which would sweep the whole affair away."

On August lfl, 1870, .Mr. Cumming was married to Miss Mary E. Blaney, horn in Licking County, Ohio. August 10, 1846. To Mr. and Mrs. Cumming were born six children: Charles Stewart, born May 2(1. 1871 ; William Henry, born July 10, Js?."'. ; Orin Kimpton, horn December 18, 1S75; Maud Elizabeth, horn March 24. 1s7s: Ernest Proctor, horn May 10, 1S80; and Clarence Carl, horn October 19, 1882. Mrs. Cumming passed away October 3, 1S85. On December 29, 1SS0, Mr. Cumming was united with Miss Mary C. BartilsOu.

CUNNEA, James (deceased), who was associated with the earlier banking history of Morris, was born in Ireland, January G, 1810, a son of Patrick- and Isabella (Brown) Cunnea. Although the family came to the United States in 184G, it was not until 18GG that they located at Morris. Here James Cunnea with his father conducted a loan office, and in 1S72 bought the First National Bank of Seneca, 111., and removing it to .Morris changed the name to that of the First National Paid, of Morris. Mr. Cunnea was a Democrat in political faith. He married in Ireland. March -I. 1834, Ann Glackin, and they had twelve children, eight of whom grew to maturity, namely: Thomas, John, James, George A., Isabella, Maria, Catherine and Anna.

CURTIN, John Thomas. - The owner of a farm of 120 acres of land in Greenfield Township. which has been brought to a high state of cultivation through his skill, industry and good management. John Thomas Curtin is recognized as one of the substantial farmer-citizens of Grundy County, and as a man whose interest in the welfare of his community entitles him to the respect and esteem of his fellow-citizens. He is a native of the Prairie State, having been horn in LaSalle County, in 1S50. a son of John and Catherine (Maloney) Curtin. natives of Limerick, Ireland. His father, who was a farmer in his native Erin, emigrated to the United States at the age of twenty-one years, and almost immediately settled in LaSalle County, where he commenced farming. In 1809 the family transferred to Grundy County, and there the father took' up land in Highland Township, that locality being the scene of his subsequent activities. Shortly prior to his death, which occurred in 1S99. be retired from active pursuits and moved to Kinsman, 111. Mrs. Curtin died in 1905, and was laid to rest beside her husband in the family cemetery at Ottawa. They were the parents of nine children: John Thomas; Mary, Timothy and Thomas, all three deceased and buried at Ottawa; Mrs. Katherine O. Levi; Margaret; Jeremiah, deceased; Mrs. Mary Leahy; and Thomas months. He was brought up to the honest and balance being in pasture land, lie raises Durhealthy work of tilling the soil, and continued ham and Galloway cattle and Percheron horses vancements made in his adopted calling, and 111., and they have Loretta, Edward and Timohas won his way to affluence solely through the thy J.: Elvah, who is the wife of John MeCabe,

CUSHING, James S., one of the substantial agriculturalists of Grundy County, whose efforts DAGGETT, Henry C, manager of intelligently directed have resulted in the accu- elevators at Mazon, P.ooth Station and mulation of large realty holdings, from which III., is a man eminently fitted for he reaps gratifying returns, is a man who has responsibilities of such a position, In long resided in Goose Lake Township, but was ural ability and business training. He was born born at Lemont, 111.. November 4, IsTiT. a son and reared at Ottawa. 111., and when five years of James and Mary (Handerhan) Cushing, na- old accompanied his parents, Charles and Mary fives of Tippcrary, Ireland. These parents (Byrnes) Daggett, to Marseilles, III. Both parcame to Chicago when single, and were there outs had been born at Ottawa, 111., and lived married. During the early forties, the father through some of the thrilling early history of worked on the Illinois and Michigan canal, but that section, hut now are residents of Marlater bought forty acres in the vicinity of Le- seilles. The children born to these parents mont, paying £200 for it. Four years later, he were: one who died in infancy; Delia Danish; sold it for $s00. and came to what is now (loose Henry C. : Charles and Fred I'... both of whom Lake Township, Grundy County. Here he are railway mail clerks; and Susie, who is bought 120 acres, where lie died. April 2.", "1000. bookkeeper in the First National Hank at Mar- HIs first wife died when their son James was seilles.

ing his marriage, James Cushing bought 100 that place. This position he filled very acceptaeres in Felix Township, Grundy County, living ably for three years, and on August 7, 1011. as- suniort his present responsibilities, and is carrying tliein to the entire satisfaction of .-ill parties concerned. The success which lias attended Mr. Daggett's efforts is largely due to his faithfulness and capable and effective work. He is never satisfied until lie has carried out his plans to render his company etlicient service and his aim has been to place the name of the Mazon Farmers Elevator Company at the head of the list of similar concerns. Such enterprise and progressiveness combine for big business ami the patrons of these elevator.-, recognize the fact that with such a competent manager of this company they are sure of receiving fair and honorable treatment and the very best of service.

DALY, Michael M. (deceased), was (lie founder of one of the substantial and representative families of Grundy County, an! during a long and useful life continued to enjoy the respect which he had secured when he came first to this section of Illinois, lie was bom in County Cork, Ireland, in lS2fj, and when he emigrated to the 1'nited State-, located in the state of New York and went into the nursery business at Fishkill Landing. In 1S51 he came to 111- nois and for about seven years worked in the nursery business at Joliet, but, after purchasing a farm in 1S5S, in Wauponsee Township, he devoted himself to general farming there all his active life and died on thai place. lie was a man of peaceful temperament and not only lived amicably with his neighbors, many of whom were of the adventurous type of pioneer that brings trouble wherever settlement is made, but also with the Indians who stil! roamed over the country. He became very friendly with Chief Shabbona and on one occasion entertained him as his guest over night, with good feeling offering the best that his cabin afforded, but the Indian asked only for a place on the floor to rest through the night. Michael M. Daly married Mary MeArdle. who was born in County Down, Ireland. November 26, JS27. She came to New York in is.'ll and was married in 1S47.

William Lambert Daly, son of Michael M. and Mary Daly, was born in Dutchess County, X. Y., January 7. 1S51. For four years before bis marriage he was employed in the city of Chicago, but after marriage be settled on his farm in Wauponsee Township, where he continued in agricultural pursuits until his death. September s, 1S97. He was a Republican in politics and, as a man of excellent judgment, was elected to public office and served very acceptably as township clerk and as school teacher before he was married. On December 28, 1S75. he was married to Margaret Marie Shea, who was born in Hamilton County, Ontario. Can.. .Tmie s». is-js. and they had seven children: William L,, who was horn February 13, 1^70; Edward F., who was born July 17. 1SS3; John F., who was born March 12. 1SSS; Walter, who was born April :;. ]s;n. being the survivors. Three are deceased : Robert, who died August 14, 1SS2, was horn in October, 1SS1 ; Nellie, who was the wife of II. S. Hume born Oct,, her lo, 1SS7, and died in l'.iol. aged twenty-six years, leaving two children, Ralph and Kay; and Cora, who was born in 1SS0, died Sept. 27, 1900. Nellie and Cora are buried in Evergreen Cemetery, and Robert in Mt. Carmel Cemetery.

After the death of Mr. Daly, Mrs. Daly and her children, in 1S9S, moved to .Morris and lived there until 11)09, when a return was made to the farm, and the sons now successfully operate 300 acres and carry on general farming and stock raisin- At Morris they had public school advantages. Like their late father they are interested in the principles of the Republican party. The family belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church. John F. is a member of the Woodmen of the World, and William L.. Walter and Edward are members of the K. P. Lodge at Morris.

DARBY, Silas C. - Located in Vienna Township, is the valuable farm belonging to Silas C. Darby, 'a property containing 135 acres, devoted to general operations, productive orchards and the breeding of blooded cattle. One of his locality's most substantial citizens, Mr. Darby has been the architect of his own fortunes, for whatever he has accomplished in life has come as a result of his own untiring efforts. He is a native of Worcestershire, England, and was born March 2S, 1S57, in the village of niey-, parish of Halesowen, a son of Thomas and Ann (Hadley) (Coley) Darby. The family came to the United States in 1S71, locating first at Marseilles, Ilk, where the elder Darby commenced farminsr. a vocation which he followed until his death in 1S95, his widow following him to the grave in 1903. Silas C. Darby received his education in the schools of bis native land, and was fourteen years of age when he accompanied his father and mother to this country. An industrious, enterprising and ambitious youth, when still under his majority he began to care for his parents, and continued to reside with them until he bought his present property in 1SS4. This land at that time could boast of no improvements, but Mr. Darby at once began to remedy this fault, and today the property is one of the finest and best improved in Grundy County. All of the buildings have been erected by him. modern machinery has been installed', and with infinite patience and care he has succeeded in growing an orchard that is the pride of the residents of this section. His life has been indeed an active and useful one, for he has not alone gained personal advancement, but through his work has succeeded in assisting materially in the development of his community. He is engaged in raising Belgian and Percheron horses, and at thi< time is the owner of a valuable Belgian stallion. He is known as an excellent business man, but has never taken an unfair advantage nor used another's misfortune as the means of making a personal gain. Mr. Darby owned a threshing outfit and operated it for thirty-six years, but September 15, 1012. the engine exploded, and although fortunately no one was seriously injured, the machinery was destroyed, and considerable inconvenience was ex- - perien<cd for several months 'by Mr. Darby as he was knocked unconscious by the force of the concussion.

In political matters n Republican, Mr. Darby has been honored by his fellow-citizens with election to public office, having served as a School Director for nine years and as Road Commissioner for throe years. His fraternal connections are with the Seneca lodges of the Knights of Pythias and the Modern Woodmen of America.

DAVIDSON, Robert M. J - A citizen of Grundy County wlin has returned t > agricultural pursuits alter a number of years spent in other lines of endeavor and who lias made a -access of his ventures is Robert M. .7. Davidson, whose well-cultivated properly is located in Saratoga Township. Mr. Davidson was born in the township in which he now resides. April 12, lsr>5, and is a son of Robert J. and Harriet M. (Taylor) Davidson. Robert J. Davidson was born in 1S00 in the north of Ireland, and when twenty-two years of age emigrated to the United states, locating at Xewburgh, X. Y.. where he was married to Harriet M. Taylor, a native of Pennsylvania. lie was engaged in the livery business in Xew York until 1S4S, when he came to Morris. 111., by water, and here for some years was employed as a coal miner. Subsequently he moved to a farm of 112 acres, adjoining the city, in Morris Township, and there continued to be engaged in agricultural pursuits nn to the time of his death, which occurred November 2S. 1S6S. His widow passed away in 1.004. They were the parents of these children : Evelyn, who married Cornelius Condon, of Morris; Sarah, who married .Tames Cummings of Seattle. Wash.; Robert M. J., and Belle, who married Thomas Lindsey, of Seattle. Wash.

Robert M. .1. Davidson received his education in the public schools of Saratoga Township, and at the age of twenty years began to divide bis time between the mines in the winter months and the home farm in the summer. He continued to be so engaged until November, 1S97, when he went to Sandcoulee, Mont., with his eldest son. and in May of the following year the rest of the family joined him. After four years spent in mining, he returned to Grundy County, and settled on the home place, where he owned forty-one acres, and subsequently added to this by purchase thirty acres. He also rents considerable property, and now has 300 acres under cultivation. His ventures -have proven successful because of his Industry and well-directed effort, and he is accounted one of the most substantial men of his township.

(Hardy) King. Mr. King was a miner by occupation and at various times worked in Pennsylvania. Illinois and Montana. Mr. and Mrs. Davidson have had the following children: William, a resident of Stockett, Mont.; Samuel, residing at Joliet. 111.; Max J., of Morris- Thomas and Truman, both of Morris; Eliza and Louisa, both of whom died in infancy; and Elmer, Leslie, .Morris and .Mary all at' home. Mr. and Mi'-'. Davidson are consistent members of the Presbyterian Church. In his political views be is a Democrat. A useful and publicspirited citizen, lie has ever been ready to give bis lime or means in promoting movements for the general welfare, and few citizens of Saratoga Township arc held in greater esteem.

DAVIS, Frank Thomas. - There was a time, and not so far distant when few thought of sanitation, or required of their dealers and producers of commodities the same cleanliness to be found in the household circle. That period lias passed and today the baker, confectioner, grower, meatman, or anyone who successfully handles food-stuffs must take as much care as t,, Hie purity Of his goods as he does in their other qualities. Frank Thomas Davis, of Mazon, is one of the most progressive men in bis line in Grundy County, and his bake shop and ice cream and confectionery parlors are models of cleanliness. He was born in Ma/on Township, in FSS3, a son of Oscar F. and Addie (Clapp) Davis.

Frank T. Davis grew up on the farm where he came into the world, and attended school at Mazon. supplementing the knowledge gained there with a year at Wheatou college. For a year following, lie worked in the Mazon bank and then invested bis capital in his shop, coming into possession in 1012. Mr. Davis has the advantage of being the pioneer in his line at 'Mazon. but as he takes care that the public are well supplied they need no other, and he understands his business thoroughly as well as the requirements of his patrons. On August 15, 1010. Mr. Davis married Pearl Jackson, born at Mineral Point, Wis. Although a Republican, Mr. Davis is very liberal, believing that everyone must decide for himself the best political road to travel. Fraternally he is a Mason. Earnest. steadfast, a hard worker and honorable business man. Mi'. Davis has firmly established himself in the confidence of his community.

DAVITO, John. - The business instincts of some men are such as to insure their success in whatever line they undertake. They appear to know what is wanted by their 'customers and how to supply them with the best goods at satisfactory prices. Coal City is the home of a number of such men. among whom none is more worthy of special mention than John Davito, proprietor of a store, carrying dry goods, clothing and groceries, lie was born in Italy in 1S02, son of Frank" and Anna (Rettasa) Davito, natives of Italy. The father was engaged in farming until his death which oc-

John Davito attended school in his native country, and worked on hi*- father's farm until 1802 when lie came to the United States, settling in Coal City. 11!. Fpon liis arrival, he obtained work in the mines, which vocation he followed until 1004, when he launched out into the business world and became a merchant.

In 1S01, he married Anna Bettosa, and these children have blessed this union: Frank, who married Ada Adams of Coal City. April s, 1913; Domiriee, Joe, Anna. John and Mary, (he last named deceased. The family belongs to the Catholic Church. Tie is affiliated with the White Hose Lodge and the Catholic Foresters. His political convictions are Republican. He is considered a man of business honor and integrity, and has a large number of friends in (his part of the county where he is well known.

DELBRIDGE, Robert J. - While many of the agriculturalists of Grundy County find it profitable to carry on general farming, there are others who prefer t<> specialize, particularly on stock raising. One of the men who has attained to more than usual success in raising horses. cattle and boas upon an extensive scale is Robert J. Delbridge of Saratoga Township, one of the leading men of the county. He was born at Ottawa. 111.. March is. 1st:,. a son of John and Nancy (Diehl) Delbridge, natives of England and of Dayton. Ohio, respectively. The father came with his parents to New York where he lived from 1850 to 1850. In the latter year he moved to Ottawa. 111., where he bought land, owning at one time £00 acres. The maternal grandparents. Jacob and Nancy Diehl. came from Pennsylvania to Ohio, where Mr. Diehl was a brewer, hut later moved to Illinois. John and Nancy (Diehl) Delbridge were married at Ottawa, and he engaged in farming for some years At present they are living with their son. Robert J. The father was horn in 1844, and the mother in 1s4."i. Mr. and Mrs. Delbridge have had the following children: George, who is of Traer, Iowa : Jennie, who is Mrs. C. M. Ames of Glenn. Mich.; Nana, who is Mrs. James Bogle of Marseilles. 111.: Robert J., and May Bell, who is the widow of Joseph Bell of Glenn. Mich.

Robert J. Delbridge attended the schools of his neighborhood, and a commercial college of Valparaiso. Ind.. and is a well qualified young business man. He handles from 200 to 250 head of horses annually, the same amount of cattle and raises and feeds 300 head of hogs. Politically he is a Republican, but aside from casting his' vote for the candidates of his party, has not taken any part in public life. His mother is a Methodist, but he is not connected with any religious organization. A young man of ability and force of character, he is fast becoming a'leader in the stock business of his county and richly deserves all the success which has come to him.

DEMELCH10RRE, Michele. - There is no truer saying than that to the effect that those of foreign birth who come to the Cnited States succeed where native Americans fail. The men and women who come here from lands across the seas, bring with them a determination to win at any cost and they go about their work earnestly and thriftily with the result that some of the most prosperous residents of almost any community are numbered among this class. One of the men of Grundy County who belongs among these successful foreign horn citizens, is Michele Demelchiorre, manager of a thriving mercantile business at South Wilmington, 111. .Mr. Demelchiorre was born in Northern Italy adjacent to the French frontier, March 3, 1857, a son of Joseph and .Margaret Demelchiorre, wdio died in their native land. They bad twelve children, all of whom are deceased with the exception of four.

Michele Demelchiorre worked on the farm with his father until hi' was twenty years old. and then traveled in Europe, working as a laborer. In lss2 he came to the Cnited States. and lived for a time at Coal City, Grundy County, where be had employment as a coal digger, but in ISS4, he began working for different railroads. Following that he was a delivery-man for Mrs. Piagnor of Coal City, and in 1901 took charge of her store in Smith Wilmington, where he has since remained, building it up to its present proportions. This establishment is one of (he largest in the city, and he is one of the popular business men of the county. In addition to his other interests, he is a stockholder in the Illinois Aero Construction Company of Coal City, lie has never married, lie belongs to the Catholic Church and has voted the Republican ticket since taking out his naturalization papers.

DEMPSEY, Lawrence (deceased). - Farming and stock raising are two kindred lines of endeavor, and many of the substantial men of Grundy County gained their wealth through following them. One of those who attained to a well merited prominence as an agriculturalist, who carried on general farming and stock raising in Norman Township, was the late Lawrence Dempsey. He was born in County Wexford. Ireland, in" the spring of 1S32. He came with his sister to Wisconsin at an early day. and found employment on a farm near Madison. In 1S71 he married Anna Larkin. born in Kings County. Ireland, May 10, 1834, daughter of Andrew and Elizabeth (Looman) Larkin, also of Kings County, Ireland. Mrs. Dempsey came with her brother to the United States, the voyage consuming seven weeks, and stopped first at Chicago, and thence by way of the Illinois and Michigan canal came to Minooka. There she lived until her marriage.

Following marriage. Mr. and Mrs. Dempsey went to Aux Sable Township and live'd on a rented farm ,foi' two years, then to another farm two miles from Mazon, which continued to he their home for seven years and it is in

Mazon Township. Mr. Deinpsey died July 17. 1S79. In February, 1883, .Mis. Deinpsey and sons settled on the property which is now the home of -Mrs. Deinpsey, in Xorinau Township, where they bought 382">4 acres about eighty acres of which was timberland, and the balance was prairie. They have recently bought another 140 acres in Wauponsee Township. Mrs. Deinpsey and her sons carry on general fanning, and specialize on raising Belgian horses. Mr. and .Mrs. Deinpsey had children as follows: William, who lives with his mother; John, who died June 24, 1007, aged forty-four years; Elizabeth, Mary and Lawrence, who are all with their mother; Thomas, who lives at Fort Cobb, Okla. ; and Anna, who lives in Chicago. Mrs. Dempsey is a Catholic and belongs to the Church of the Immaculate Conception at Morris. Mr. Dempsey was a Democrat, but he never aspired to public office, lie was an excellent man and is tenderly remembered by his wife and children.

DEWEY, Sylvester Harvey, who came to Grundy County in 1855, was born at Leyden, N. Y., August 14, 1821. Upon his arrival in this county, he bought eighty acres of land on the present site of Verona for §450, but sold this property four years later to move to Mazon Township where he bought 2-i) acres, adding to bis holdings until he owned 540 acres. In 1873 he went to Morris, but returned to Mazon several years later to embark in an agricultural implement and grain business. On December 30, 18)7, Mr. Dewey married Melissa Porter and they had the following children: Ellen Melissa, who married Horace G. Overrocker; Alice Eliza, who married Daniel Webster Francis; Milton Sylvester, who married Margaret Dewey; Mary Jerusha ; Lester Scott, who married Asenath Eudora ; Flora Angelina and two who died young. Mr. Dewey was an Abolitionist prior to the Civil War, later becoming a Prohibitionist and still later a Silver Democrat. In early life he joined the Baptist Church, and his wife was of the same religious creed, but when the family located at Mazon, they afiiliated with the Methodist Church, there being no church of their denomination in the village.

DIX, Matthew, one of the representative residents of Verona, is a man who has won and retained the confidence and respect of his associates throughout Grundy County. He was born at Chilton, Berkshire, England. May 4. 1831, a son of Charles Stephen and Martha (Pounds) Dix, both of whom died in England. Matthew Dix, with his brother. William, crossed the ocean in a sailing vessel to the United States, six weeks being consumed in the voyage. They landed in New York City, from whence they came on to Chicago, ami from there made their way to Morris. The youths were anxious to work and the first employment secured by Mr. Dix was that of watching cattle which were being driven to La Salle County. Following this he worked for a year on a Kendall County farm, for $12.50. With his brother he then bought ;i horse and a corn sheller, and went about the country shelling corn for the farmers, thus continuing for about seventeen years. Times were so hard that money was scarce and although they received inadequate compensation for their labor, they saved what money they did get, and in 1801 bought eightyacres of land apiece in Vienna Township. Mr. Dix developed his property, later buying out his brother, and has since added eighty "acres more, which his son operates. Until 19*00, Mr. Dix was actively engaged in farming, but then bought a home at Verona, where he has since lived in retirement.

On September 17. 1803, Mr. Dix married Emoline Gertrude Cody, born in Oneida County, X. Y.. July s. 1S43. a daughter of Thomas Jefferson and Harriet (Lenard) Cody, both of Xew York State. In June. 1844, the' Cody family came west to Lisbon. Kendall County, 111. Mr. Cody was a bunt and shoemaker, and* after savin- enough, bought a farm west of Lisbon, where he lived some years, then moved to Lisbon, where he resumed work at his trade. Mr. and Mrs. Dix became the parents of the following children: George, who died in infancy; Fred Leonard, who is on the home farm; Lew-is. who died at the age of ten years; Clara Amelia, who married William Finch of Vienna Township; Mina Gertrude, who died in infancy; Sadie Emoline, who married Robert J. Glenn of Mazon Township; Effie Josephine, who married A. s. Small of Highland Township; Warren M. of Stanford. Mont., who married Alia May Hough; .May Eloise, who is of Stanford. Mont.: and Hattie Mabel, who married I.. A. Whittimore of Verona, 111. Mr. Dix is a member of the Methodist Church and has served as steward and held other church offices. A Republican, he has held a number of the township offices, and is a man whose integrity has never been questioned and whose standing in his neighborhood has been honorally gained.

DIX, Oliver, one of the older residents of Grundy County, was bo n in Oneida County, X. Y.. January 5, 1822, and died on his home farm February 1(1, 1000. lie was a son of Ara and Lydia (Richards) Dix. When he was fifteen years old. the family came to Kendall County. II].. and a little later he located in Grundy County. As the years went on. he added to his original holdings until he owned S00 acres. In 1890, he retired from active work. In 1S-1S, he married Lydia Wing, a daughter of Thomas Win- of Illinois. They had the following children; Ara W. and Orville E. After the death of the first Mrs. Dix in 1S5S, Mr. Dix married (second) Louisa S. McKinzie, a daughter of William and Sophia (Spillman) McKinzie, and they had the following family; Lydia P., William O., Etta M.-. Susan L.. and George R. Mr. Dix was a Republican in political views, while religiously he was a Methodist.

DOHERTY, Robert Russell. - One of the characteristics of the Scotch people has always been intense religious zeal, and the majority of those who come from Scotland take an active part in carrying on the work of the churches in whatever community they happen to locate, at the same time, these earnest, hardworking people know how to make their efforts count for something in all directions and develop into valuable citizens. One of the representatives of his native land in Grundy County, is Robert Russell Doherty of Morris, born in Scotland, in April, 18U4, son of Philip and Christina (Russell) Doherty, both of whom died in Scotland. Robert Russell Doherty is a fine type of the self-made man, for not only has he developed his own material fortunes, but educated himself, and has every reason to be proud id' what he has accomplished. In 1SS1 he came to Morris, where he worked in a brick and tile yard for two seasons. He then worked for the Coleman Hardware Company as moulder for eleven years. His worth being recognized, for three years he was foreman, and for six. assistant superintendent. Mr. Doherty then became associated with what was then the Nickel Manufacturing Company, which in May, 1910, sold to another company, which manufactures light gray castings ami all kinds of light hardware, such as sash pulleys, sash hooks and similar articles, while a specialty is made of all kinds of piano work. Employment is given steadily to about seventy-four men. On December 31, .1884, Mr. Doherty was married to Mary Kerr, daughter of Robert and Janet (Ferguson) Kerr, who now reside at Morris. The following children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Doherty: Philip of Morris: Robert, at home: John, of Chicago, and Russell, at home.

Mr. Doherty has always been very active in the Presbyterian Church of which he is a member, and since 1892, has been a trustee. In 1900, he was made an elder, and still has that distinction. For nine years, he was superintendent of the Sunday school, and is now assistant superintendent, and teaches a class. lie has also served as president of the Grundy County Pdble Society, and been eager to promote the good work of his church in every way. The Republican party has always bad his support, and he served one term as alderman from the Second Ward, and since 1002, has been on the school board, two terms of that period, being its president. An enthusiastic Mason, he is now Past Master of Orient Chapter. R. A. M. The Knights of Pythias also hold his membership, and he is Past Chancellor of that order. A man of strong convictions, able and ready to support them, Mr. Doherty exerts a powerful influence for good in his community, and commands the respect of all who know him.

DREW, Charles E. - A citizen whose activities In business life have added materially to the commercial prestige of Grundy County. 111., is Charles F. Drew, of the firm of Ilargreaves & Drew, who are proprietors of elevators at