Henry County, Illinois - The whole text, 1885 (part 15 of 31)

The limited opportunities of the East impelled him to seek a new field of operation, and at 23 he came to Cleveland, Ohio, where he had friends, and he there found an opportunity to work at the trade which he had fixed upon as his vocation in life. Not long after he had commenced his labors in Ohio he was seriously injured in his left knee, and he passed some months on a sick'bed in consequence. But his job waited for him, and as soon as possible arrangements were made so he could go on with the work he had planned. He saved his earnings and bought a small piece of land in the vicinity of the city, which he afterwards sold. He fixed his residence at Cleveland, and was a citizen of that place 40 years, and was engaged there as a carpenter during the entire period.

Meanwhile his brother Dwight had settled at Geneseo, and he came here to visit him about the year 1853. He bought at that time a piece of land in the vicinity of the village (then) and made some improvements, with the intention some time .of making his home thereon. In the fall of 1869 he removed to Henry County to fulfill the purpose; but, instead of building his house and making ready to pass his life in the quiet retirement of a small place just suited to the needs of his family, he was induced to invest his savings in an entirely different avenue. His brother was the owner of a business building in Geneseo, and soon after the arrival of Mr. Freeman it was destroyed by fire. Mr. Freeman rebuilt the structure, and has since been occupied in the management of the property in which he so unexpectedly became permanently interested.

He was married Sept. 8, 1835, in the city of Cleveland, to Marcia, daughter of Gaines and Mary (Branson) Pritchard. She was born in Waterbury, New Haven Co., Conn., April n, 18 16. Her father removed his family from Connecticut to Cleveland, Ohio, in 1820. The journey was made with an ox team and occupied six weeks. The following year was sickly, and the mother died in August. A month later the father was also in his grave, and the daughter, then six years old, was an orphan. The generations of the families to which Mrs. Freeman belongs were noted for tenacity of life. When she was in early infancy she had six grandmothers. Her grandmother Pritchard was 96 when she died, and the grandmother on her mother's side was within a few weeks of being 100 when her decease took place. The latter at 90 was in the vigor of a person 20 years younger. She had her second sight and could read and sew without glasses. She was a woman of uncommon energy, and noted for the work in her family which she accomplished, an array that would tire the belles of the period to hear enumerated. The male progenitors of both families were principally farmers, but two of Mrs. Freeman's cousins in the Pritchard line were Episcopal clergymen, and one was a physiciah. All the women in the generations which preceded hers were well instructed in the arts common to the period in which they lived. They spun and wove, were fairly educated, and bore themselves through their long and useful lives with dignity and grace. Their noble traits are fresh and sweet in the remembrances of their descendants. The mother of Mrs. Freeman, Mary Pritchard, was the daughter of Gates Bronson. The father of the latter was a soldier of the Revolution, and was made a Lieutenant. He also did the duty of an Adjutant. His son was born in the course of the war and was named after the noted General Gates. .Lieutenant Bronson never received a pension, and never applied for one, but after his death his widow received about $200 yearly from the Government. Mrs. Freeman is a communicant in the Episcopal Church. She is a remarkably well preserved woman, and is a good type of the New England blood from which she sprung. She would have made a heroine if circumstances had demanded. But passing her life in the quiet repose which the later generations in this land enjoy, she is simply a lady who is an honor to the community in which she lives. She is prominent in Church matters, and is known for her liberality and genial temper.

tenry Messmore is one of the prominent and well-to-do farmers of Annawan Township, and resides on section 34. He was born in Pennsylvania in 1831, and in 1835 went to Ohio with his parents. There he passed the following eighteen years of his life, attending such schools as the community where his parents lived afforded, and assisting his father at his work. In 1853 we find him in Henry County, and the following year he celebrated his marriage. Miss Christina Blin, who was born in Warren Co., Ohio, Oct. T4, 1833, was his bride. They have an excellent farm of 280 acres, all well improved and equipped, and upon which is a two-story dwelling 40 feet square,' and a barn 30 x 60 feet. He has a fine herd of Short-horns, five of which are thoroughbred. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and is connected with Lodge No. 128. The hall where the Lodge meets is in Kewanee. He and the family are all members of the United Brethren Church, and politically Mr. Messmore affiliates with the Democratic party.

Mr. and Mrs. Messmore became the parents of the following named children : Daniel W., born April r4, 1855 ; Margaret A., born May 5, 1856; Sarah E., born Oct. 7, 1857; and Jacob N., born Aug. 7, 1859. The following are deceased: two infants unnamed; Julia E., born Oct. 28, 1863; and George E., born March 1, 1865.

'nomas Liken, of Munson Township, is one of the most extensive land owners in Henry £p* County, and is the owner of more than 1,100 acres of improved land, which is all included in the same township. Mr. Liken was born in 1820. Until he was T3 he was brought up in the city of Pittsburg, Pa. In 1833 his father removed from the city to Indiana Township, in its vicinity, where he bought a farm. There were at that date no free schools, and Mr. Liken was sent to a private school, where he obtained a fair education. This; was in the city before the removal of the family to Indiana Township. The residence there was maintained but three years. At the end of that time another removal to the township of Penn was effected, where the father also bought a farm. The mother of Mr. Liken had died when he was eight years old, and his father was again married. The latter died in the township where the last farm was bought, May 7, 1839. The death of the stepmother took place six weeks after that of her husband. Mr. Liken was the oldest son and he took charge of the estate. When it was settled he became the owner of a part of it, and was a resident thereon until 1865. He left his patrimony in the hands of a renter and removed to Henry County. He located at the very first in the same township where he has since prosecuted his farming projects. He made a purchase of 160 acres of land, on which there had been no improvements whatever, and also bought 97. acres which had been placed under the plow. The first purchase is all improved and is neatly hedged. The buildings on the farm of Mr. Liken do credit to his taste and judgment, and the place is rendered more beautiful and valuable by the trees which have been set out in great plenty. Mr. Liken is an adherent of the Republican party.

His marriage to Sarah A. Sands was celebrated Feb. 3, 1842. She was born in Allegheny Co., Pa. To them four children have been born, whose names are Thomas P., John F., Samuel S. and Florence K. The latter is married to A. P. Hoffman, a resident of Los Angeles, Cal. The oldest son, William A., was a soldier in the late war and was killed at the battle of Petersburg, June 18, 1864. He enlisted in Co. E, 155th Penn. Zouaves.

-oseph C. Webb, of Annawan Township, came to Henry County in 1852. He was born in the town of Bloomfield, in Somer- . set Co., Me., Sept. 26, 1882. His father, J. It B. Webb, was born in Maine, in the year 1797. His mother, Martha (Weston) Webb, was born in the same State in 1799. She died in 1869. The death of her husband took place in the year following. Theodore D., Joseph C, Ellen, Esther, F. D., Hiram, Stephen, Anna, Martha, Frank, Olive and Mary E. are the names of their children.

Mr. Webb, of this sketch, married Elizabeth Burgess, in September, 1848. She was born in March, 1825, and has been the mother of five children. Hiram, Charles H, Lizzie and Sarah are living. Samuel died March 3, r86i.

Mr. Webb located on the farm on which he has since prosecuted his business schemes, in the spring of 1853, the year subsequent to that in which he came to Henry County. He is the proprietor of 1 60 acres of land, on which there is a good dwelling, and the usual outfit of excellent farm buildings. On the home place there are 260 rods of hedge. All the stock on the place is thoroughbred. Mr. Webb has one full-blooded' bull of the Short-horn breed, and his horses are Normans and Clydesdales. Mr. Webb is a farmer of the rank in that profession who has aided in the splendid development of the county. He is esteemed for his worth as a citizen, and his business integrity, as well as the interest he has manifested in the progress of thecommuntty of which he is a member. In political preference he is connected with the Republican party. Mrs. Webb is connected in membership with the Congregational Church.

fjl'fli mariah. Withrow, a farmer of Phenix f Township, is the oldest son of Neely antei" Withrow, one of the pioneers of the first year of the settlement of Henry County. The family came to this county in 1835, and to Phenix Township in 1836, of which they have since been residents, and have been without intermission since then connected with the history of the municipality into which they came at a time when its locality was designated by the number which marked its relative position on the chart of the surveyor.

Mr. Withrow, of this account, was born May 4, 1831, in White Co., 111., and he was only four years of age when his parents came to Henry County. They settled on a farm, and the son grew up under the conditions which characterized the experiences of the pioneer days on the prairie farms. He was an attendant at the sessions of the first school taught in the county, in the first log school-house that was built within the limits of Henry County. It was the most primitive sort of a building, its floor being of slabs and the benches of the same material set up on legs, and without backs. The entire boyhood, youth and early manhood of Mr. Withrow were passed in the manner common to the location, and he has devoted his later years to the improvement of the township in which he received his first impressions of his obligations to the interests of the world of work and effort.

He was united in marriage, Aug. 8, T856, to Mary J. Huston, a native of Ohio. Their surviving children are named William H., Letha A., Lucinda E. and Jerome S. One after another of their first three children passed away while they were in their earliest infancy.

After his marriage, Mr. Withrow took possession of a tract of land which he had previously purchased on section 14, and it has since been the field of his operations. He is engaged in the pursuits of a stock and grain farmer. At the time of his purchase of the property a small frame house had been erected thereon. To this the proprietor has made the necessary additions, and it is still the family residence. A good frame barn has also been built on the farm.

iilliam Clarke, a retired farmer residing at Orion, was born in the northern part of Ireland, March 10, 1819. His parents were life-long farmers, and lived and died in their native country. They were John and Margaret (Armor) Clarke. William was the fifth child of a family of nine children, six sons and three daughters, all of whom are married except one. William passed the years prior to his majority under the parental roof, devoting the latter years of this period to learning the carpenter's trade, serving an apprenticeship of five years under John Maxwell. After he reached the age of 21 years, he set out for America all alone. He soon made his way to Mercer Co., 111., where he located, his brother having come in 1835, five years before he did. He soon went to Rock Island, however, where he followed his trade for nearly two years, when he returned to Swedona, formerly called Berlin, Mercer County, where he was married Aug. 23, 1842, to Miss Almira Pillsbury. (For her parental history see sketch of Levi Pillsbury.) She was born in Grafton Co., N. H., October 9, 1813. Shortly after her birth, the family moved to St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., where they lived for some years, when they came West and located in Andover Township, when she was 23 years old, and were consequently very early pioneers in this section of the country. The five children born of her marriage to Mr. Clarke are John P., who married Emma Wilkinson, and is a farmer of Lynn Township, this county; Esther Ann, wife of George Carnes, of Orion ; Edward P. married Anna Cunningham and lives at Monmouth, where he is a clerk in an agricultural store; Amelia R. is the wife of William Smith, an attorney of Orion ; Almira L. resides at home.

About two years after their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Clarke went to Milan (then called Camden Mills), Rock Island County, where they resided from 1844 to 1861, and where Mr. C. erected the second house in the village. During the time he was in Milan, he was engaged in the wagon-making and blacksmithing business. In 1855 he purchased a farm in Lynn Township, this county, upon which he made fair imimprovements. He followed agricultural pursuits for two years successfully, when in 1857 he returned to Milan and embarked in the general mercantile business, which he continued to run for four years and was at the same time Postmaster. In 1861 he again returned to his farm and was there engaged, with the exception of two years he lived at Bloomington, 111., until 1879, when he came to Orion. He then purchased the property he now occupies, and upon which he has made great improvements, chiefly in the erection of an elegant residence. He improved a half section of land in Lynn Township, one-half of which he bequeathed equally to two sons and the remainder, which is well improved, he retained. His lot in the village contained four and one-half acres. Both he and his wife are members of the Presbyterian Church, of which Mr. C. has been Elder for many years. Politically, he is a Prohibitionist.

At the age of 24 he was joined in marriage to Miss Mary Kaplar. Their union occurred in May, 1834. She was born Aug. 30, 181 2, in Juniata Co., Pa. Seven sons have been born to them, of whom all are still living but one. Henry N. was born May 15, 1836; David, Oct. 5, 1838; William H, Oct. 12, 1841; James A., Oct. 30, 1843; Joseph W., Oct. 21, 1847 ; Jacob R., Jan. 13, 1851. The son who is deceased was a soldier of the late war, and was wounded at Stone River. He died after two weeks, of hemorrhage, and was brought home for burial. His remains were placed in Fairview Cemetery, in the county where he was born.

Henry Fronk, the father of Mr. Fronk, of this sketch, was born in the county of Lancaster, Pa., in 1775. He died in Dauphin Co., Pa., in 1867. Sarah

Buchanan Fronk, his wife, was born in the same county in which her son was born, in 1777. Herde- -$- raise took place in 1865. She became the wife of Mr. Fronk, senior, in 1809. Her parents came from Ireland, and those of her husband were natives of Germany. The family of which Mr. Fronk is a member comprised the following children : Elizabeth, Joseph, Levi, Hannah, John, Harriet and Sarah. John and Sarah are dead.

The farm of Mr. Fronk includes 160 acres. He became its possessor in the year in which he removed to the county. He obtained the title of the Government of the United States, and he has placed the entire acreage under excellent cultivation. The farm house is a comfortable structure, and the other buildings are of excellent type. On the place is a fine grove of trees, which Mr. Fronk planted with his own hands. He is a member of the Republican party, and both himself and his wife have been for more than a score of years connected with the Church of the United Brethren.

'illiam Smith, of Edford Township, is a representative citizen of Henry County in more than the common acceptation of the term. What he is he has made himself. He is a foreigner, and at the outset of his career he was in the most humble circumstances. All that is included in the term "poor" he has known in its full significance. He was born in Prussia, Nov. 10, 1822

He was the son of Henry and Caroline Smith, and from his parents his only inheritance was the privilege of bearing his own spear and shield in the battle of life. The conflict commenced when he was a lad of ten years. His first employment was in the capacity of a herder of cattle, and he passed eight months in that kind of labor. For the entire period of his efforts in that direction he received one dollar in cash, a pair of shoes, and ten yards of the home-made linen, which is a common product of his native country. He was in the habit of rising at four o'clock in the morning, and he had charge of the cattle until ten o'clock, after which he was permitted to attend school until one o'clock. He then resumed his vigilance over the cattle, and was on duty from that time until nightfall. He continued in this occupation until he reached the age of 14 years. During the time he acquired a good education, or what was considered as fair in his country. He then engaged in farming, and received a compensation of nine dollars a year. He continued to operate as a farm assistant until he reached the age of 19 years and six months, and he then left his native land to come to the United States. He took passage on a sailing vessel, and after an ocean voyage of seven weeks, he landed at the port of Baltimore, having only $1.50 in his possession whereon to found his fortune in the New World.

He made his way to Cumberland, Alleghany Co., Md., and he passed the first summer in the employ of a farmer, receiving for his services $8 a month. He was employed on a farm during the winter following, and was paid $5 a month. He remained with his first employer at the same rates three years, and at the expiration of that time he o.btained a situation as a hostler in a baiting stable. He was there occupied one year. He had practiced the utmost frugality and economy, and had saved nearly the entire amount he had earned ; and, seeing what seemed a good opportunity to start himself in an independent business, he invested his little fortune, and, obtaining a small degree of credit, he found himself the possessor of a six-horse team, with which he entered into the work of hauling goods from Cumberland to Wheeling and Clarksburg, and also to other places in the interior where there was no public means of transportation. His venture met with gratifying success, and in the short space of sevenyioj teen months he cleared $575. He then formed an association in business with his brother, and they purchased a team together. They then commenced their joint operations, and they passed their time in alternately driving and loading the wagons, and they carried on their business until the completion of the line of railroad, which put an end to their transportation service. The road was finished in 1850.

In that year, accompanied by his brother John, he started for Illinois. They came by the Allegheny, Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, and they landed at Alton. Arriving there, they set out to cross the country on foot to select a suitable location for a home. They traveled until they came to Henry County, and being pleased with the apparent outlook they invested their money in a fine tract of land which included 320 acres of prairie and 80 acres of _^=;^ limber. It was situated in the township of Edford. After making their purchase, they returned to Cumberland, and sold their teams preparatory to a permanent removal, and in the spring of 185 1 they came to Henry County, bringing with them their families. They located on section 31, and there the brothers prosecuted their farming for two years. At the end of that time they divided their estate, each taking 160 acres of prairie and 40 acres of timber. The residence of Mr. Smith is situated on the northeast quarter of section 31. The farm buildings made a fine display, and afford the best possible evidence of the quality of the judgment, industry and taste of their owner. The farm is chiefly devoted to the growing of grain and raising of stock. The prosperous condition of Mr. Smith is fully outlined in the fact that he is the owner of more than 1,200 acres of land, all under a good order of cultivation. There is a good opportunity to contrast his condition now with that of about 30 years ago, and he has the proud satisfaction of knowing that he owes it all to his own efforts.

Mr. Smith was joined in marriage to Caroline Emmeret in 1849. She was born in Bedford Co., Pa. They have five children. Maggie is' married to Albert Lawbaugh, and they are living in the Upper Peninsula in Northern Michigan. Her husband is there engaged in the practice of medicine. John was born Nov. 10, 1854. He married Mary E. Smith, a native of Cumberland Co., Md. The son is the owner of 200 acres of land on section 30, in Edford Township. Carrie is the wife of George Smith, a resident in Western Township. Ella married James Stephenson, and they live in the township last named. Emma lives with her parents. The family are all members of the Lutheran Church.

Hfpilliam McMeeken, farmer, section 6, " ' Western Township, was born in North r Ireland, March 21, 182 r. His father, !> Jones McMeeken, was also a farmer, and died in his native country, Ireland, in 1843. J William learned the trade of a carpenter in his native land, and when 25 years of age he came to America, first settling in Philadelphia; two years later he returned to his native home, but in 1852 he came again to America, locating this time at Mill Creek, Rock Island Co., 111. In 1856 he purchased a farm of 65 acres on section 1, Western Township, and located upon it the following year; and here he has since made his home, being a prosperous farmer, an industrious laborer and a judicious manager. He found his place an unimproved tract of land, but it is now rendered valuable in every portion. The live stock which he raises are first-class.

July 23, 1853, is the date of Mr. McMeeken 's marriage to Miss Agnes Reed, who was born in North Ireland, of Scotch-Irish descent. Her parents died in that country, and she came alone to America when about 20 years of age, making her home in Rock Island County. The family record as follows : James and Mary J. are married; . Miam is a teacher in the public schools; Frank, j^hn, Robert, Hugh, Sandie and Lydia. Mr. and Mrs. McM. are members of the Presbyterian Church, and in politics he is a reliable Republican.

form Milem, foreman of the coal-bank of fe- Taylor Williams, in the vicinity of Cleveland, in Hanna Township, was born in Norfolk, England, Dec. 4, 1828. His parents Robert and Elizabeth (Baldwin) Milem, were also natives of the same county. Mr. Milem grew up in his native county, and on arriving at a suitable age he learned the trade of tilemaker. He also acquired a practical knowledge of the manufacture of brick, and he was employed in those lines of business while he remained in England.

At the age of 2r,he came to America. He located in Waterloo, N. Y., and there established himself as a tile-maker. He there ran the first tile machine operated in the United States. He remained in that place two years, and went thence to Staten Island, and engaged in the capacity of superintendent of the tile works on that island, which he managed until 1853. In that year he came to Illinois, and became interested in farming in Bureau County. After operating there two years, he went to Dane Co., Wis., and bought a farm!. He was one of the earliest settlers in Dane County. He improved his place, and was its owner and occupant until 1864, when he came to Cleveland, to engage for a brief time in the industries of that place He stayed but a short time, and returned to Dane County. He continued to occupy his farm until the fall of 1865, when he returned to Cleveland. He was variously occupied until 1867, when he entered the employ of Mr. Williams. He assumed the charge of the coal-bank, and has operated in the same capacity since without intermission. He has met with the prosperity due to a life of effort, and is the owner of 40 acres of land, which he bought in 1882, in Colona Township, and is also the proprietor of considerable property in Cleveland and vicinity. ' He was married, in 1852, to Mary A. Kidd, and they have nine children. Their names are John E., Mary, Emma J., Caroline, Eliza, James, Ida May, George A. and Frank E. The eldest son is acting as an engineer at the coal-bank. The eldest daughter is the wife of John McCoslin, and they reside at Orion, where her husband is engaged in the sale of Wheeler and Wilson sewing-machines, pianos and organs.

I imam B. McClure. The subject of this personal narrative is a native of Henry County, having been born in Wethersfield Township, June 18, 1850. His parents were Daniel and Laura A. (Little) McClure. The latter was a sister of Abner Little. She died in Wethersfield Township. The elder McClure has for some time been a well known resident of Wethersfield. Two children were born to this couple, - Thomas and William B.

Mr. McClure, whose name heads this sketch, attended the district schools of Wethersfield, in which he received a good ordinary education. He made his home with his parents, working on the farm, until about 27 years of age. From that time until 1881 he worked out by the month. By economy he had saved a little money, and at that time bought a farm in Burns Township, where he has since lived. He has been eminently successful in this short period, for to-day he owns 220 acres of land.

Mr. McClure was married in Wethersfield Township, April 17, 1885, to Miss Fannie, daughter of William and Sarah (Griffith) Bump. Mrs. McClure was born in Wisconsin in 1853. She is a member of the Congregational Church, while her husband finds his religion in the principles of the Republican party.

athaniel C. Gilbert, Supervisor of the Township of Munson, is one of the most skillful farmers in the county and is the proprietor of one of the most valuable farms. i(, He was born Feb. 10, 1834, in Richmond, Ontario Co., N. Y., and is the oldest son of Horace and Ann Eliza (Carpenter) Gilbert. His father was born in Connecticut and his mother was a native of Herkimer Co., N. Y.

He grew to the age of manhood in the county where he was born and was fully trained in the arts of farming under the competent instructions of his father. He obtained a fair education in the publie schools. At the age of 18 he commenced teaching and passed some years in the practice of that calling in the winter seasons, and operated as a farmer in the intervening summers. He was an inmate of the homestead until 1856. In the month of February of that year he set out for Illinois. He came at once to Henry County and located in Geneeseo Township. He bought a tract of land on section 3r, on which a small house had been built and there had been 30 acres broken by the plow. He and one of his brothers lived there until i860. He then bought 80 acres of land in the township of Munson, situated on section 5, on which he has since expended his efforts and abilities. The nature of both may be inferred from his present possessions and surroundings. He is the owner of 240 acres of excellent farming land, which is beautified and increased in value by a variety of trees common to the situation and also with fine buildings. The abilities of Mr. Gilbert are recognized and made useful to the public interests by his repeatedly being summoned to serve his townsmen in an official capacity. In the spring of 1880 he was elected to the position he now fills and to which he has been successfully re-elected. He has served in the capacity of Township Treasurer for the past six years, and he has officiated as President of the Agricultural Board of Henry County since 1878. He is a firm adherent and supporter of the principles and issues of the Republican party

His marriage to Francelia Amsden occurred in August, i860. She was born in Woodstock, Windsor Co., Vt, and is the oldest daughter of Richard P. and Lora A. (Buck) Amsden. May, H. Mark and Lora are the names of the children of Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert.

The public will doubtless be pleased to see a likeness of Mr. Gilbert in this volume; and it is accordingly given, in connection with the foregoing sketch.

|.imeon N. Conover, station agent of the Rock Island & Pacific Railroad, telegraph ^ operator and express agent at Orion, was born in Somerville, Somerset Co., N. J., June 1857. His parents were Andrew J. and Rachel (Dunham) Conover, and both natives of the State in which our subject was born, having been united in matrimony in Monmouth County. They were both of New England parentage, and the father was engaged as a blacksmith. Of their union were born seven children, six having been born in the State of New Jersey.

Simeon N., our subject, was the oldest but one of his parents' family, and in 1868 came West with the family, locating first in Wyoming, Stark Co., 111. Afterward the family went to French Grove, Peoria Co., 111., at which place they have made their permanent home. Simeon N. Conover, whose name heads this article, was educated principally in the public schools of Wyoming. While at the latter place he learned the art of telegraphy and has since been a successful operator.

In April, 1874, he became connected with the railroad company as shop clerk, occupying that position seven years, then one year in Des Moines, Iowa, for the Wabash Company, filling the same position, and in December, 1882, came to Orion, 111. He has since had the entire management of the station of the Rock Island & Pacific Railroad at this place.

Dec. 24, 1878, Mr. Conover was married at the residence of the bride's parents, at Wyoming, 111., the lady chosen for his companion in life being Miss Eva M. Westfall, daughter of Robert E. and Sarah A. (Woods) Westfall, natives respectively of Ohio and Indiana. They were married at Toulon, 111., and there located on a farm, where Mrs. Conover of this notice was born Feb. 13, 1859. She was reared and educated in the county of her nativity, and resided with her parents until her marriage. The father was Second Lieutenant in Co. F, 112th 111. Vol. Inf., and was afterward promoted First Lieutenant, and died of a fever, in Kentucky. The mother is yet living, and resides with her daughter, Mrs. Conover.

Mrs. C. is the mother of two children by Simeon N., namely: Leon, born Dec. 18, 1880; and Anna M., born Nov. 1, 1884. Mr. and Mrs. Conover are both members of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Orion. Politically, Mr. C. is an adherent to the principles of the Republican party, and locally is a member of the Village Board.

illiam £. Brainard, a prosperous and energetic farmer, residing on section 13, Annawan Township, was born in Medina -V Co., Ohio, March 28, 1838, and is a son of Deodatus and Sally Jane (Fry) Brainard. His father, Deodatus, was born in Jefferson Co., N. Y., in 1808, and when but a lad came with his father to Ohio, where they settled in Medina County, at which place he was married to Miss Fry in the year 1829. She was born in June, 181 2, in the Mohawk Valley, N. Y. Of their union were born six children, as follows : Marinnes G., Mary Ann, Vanransler, William E. (our subject), Henry B. and Aura A.

William E. remained at home until he attained the age of 21 years, attending school in the acquisition of an education, receiving the advantages of the common schools of that early day, though they were very limited, and assisted his parents on the farm. At the age of three years he came with his parents to the State of Illinois and located near the place which is now called Buda, in the year 1841. He and Miss Emma J. Prince were united in marriage Oct. 3, 1857, at Sheffield, Bureau Co., III. Mrs. B. was born Oct. 17, 1838, in Yorkshire, Eng., and came to America in 1853. Her father, George Prince, was born at Yorkshire, Aug. n, 1792. He married Miss Rebecca Wilson in 1816. She was I born at Leeds, Eng., in 1796. They were the parsi ents of ten children, bearing the following names : Sarah, Robert, George, Rose, Martha, Mary, Hannah, Rebecca, Ruth and Emma J., who became Mrs. Brainard, and the mother of six children, born in the following order: Kate D., born June 27, 1858; Lizzie J., Jan. 4, i860; ^Edward A., Feb. 26, 1862; Sherwin VV., Sept. 8, 1867; George D., Oct. 3, 1873; Roy P., Oct. 25, 1878.

Mr. Brainard is not only one of the extensive land-owners of the township, but is also a large stock dealer and raiser. He has 543 acres of land, 280 of which are located in Hamilton Co., Neb., and the remainder in Henry County. For the past ten years he has been engaged in shipping stock to the Chicago market. On his place he has a fine herd of Shorthorn cattle. His dwelling is 28x61 feet, two stories in height. Politically, he is a Democrat, and is regarded as one of the representative farmers of the eastern portion of Henry County. Both are Adventists in religious faith and belief.

ohn Long, a prominent and well-to-do farmer of Burns Township and who owns a farm of 373 acres on section 6, was born in Rockingham Co., Va., Feb. 28, 1833. His parents, Jacob and Nancy (Rhine) Long, were also natives of Virginia. They came to Henry County in 1857 and settled in Cornwall Township, where they are living as respected and esteemed farmers. They reared a family of ten children, of whom John was the second. He accompanied his parents to Henry County, and, as might be expected, a great deal of hard work fell to his lot. He was reared on a farm and has since made agriculture his vocation. He now has one of the large number of fine farms to be found in Burns Township. He has a good dwelling and fine outbuildings, and is regarded as one of the solid men of Henry County.

Our subject was first married at Kewanee, Nov. 20, 1863, to Miss Martha Willard, who was also a native of Virginia. She became the mother of four children, - George B., John W., Jacob H. and Addie A. Mrs. Long's demise occurred at her home in Burns Township, May 28, 1873. Mr. Long lived alone until 1876, when on the 8th day of March he was united in marriage with Mrs. Matilda McNay, relict of Samuel H. McNay, and a daughter of William and Margaret (Dugan) Hunter, and was born in Muskingum Co., Ohio, Dec. 18, 1835. Mrs. Long was first married to Joseph P. Lawrence, by whom she had one child, - Maggie E. She is the wife of Charles F. Allen, of Munson Township.

illiam Austin, a farmer of Edford Township, is a pioneer of Henry County, having come here in 1838. He was born Oct. 3, 1817, in Alexander, Genesee Co., N. Y. His parents, Richard and Laura (Cady) Austin, were natives of Connecticut and Went to Western New York in the pioneer days of that locality. His father was by trade a tailor, but after he removed to Alexander he leased a hotel and for some years was engaged in the management of a house of public entertainment. He was at the same time the lessee of a farm, which he also conducted jointly with the business of a landlord. The parents died in Alexander. Mr. Austin was an inmate of the parental home until the year in which he came to Illinois. He made the transfer of his interests in the month of September, and on coming to the county he located at Geneseo. He had no difficulty in obtaining employ as a farm assistant, and soon after his arrival he secured a claim of 80 acres of land on section 27, of township 17 north, range 3 east, now the township of Geneseo. A few years later he built a house on the place, and also improved it somewhat. He made an exchange not long after for r 19 acres on section 19, in the same township. He retained possession of the latter place but a few months, and in 1852 he entered the southwest quarter of slction 23, township 17, range 2, in Edford Township, then designated by the numerals by which its relative position on the charts of the surveyors was known. In 1852 he erected a small house on the place, and in the same year he raised his first crop. He had done some breaking on the place in the year previous. He continued the work of improvement until he had put 135 acres under tillage and had built all the structures needed on a farm of that class. He also set out a generous supply of trees of the variety common to the locality both for shade and fruit.

Mr. Austin was married in 1848 to -Luanda C. Bartlett. She was born in Byron Township, Genesee Co., N. Y. The wife died in 1869, and left one child, - Frederick P. Mr. Austin was a second time married to S. Minerva Simmons. She was born in Galesburg, Knox Co., 111. From the second union there was one child, - Fayette E.

Mr. and Mrs. Austin are members of the Congregational Church. Mr. Austin is the present Assessor of Edford Township, and he has been the incumbent of several other official positions in that division of the county.

Mr. Peterson, the youngest in the above family, was three years old when the family emigrated to America, settling on a small farm in Warren Co., Pa., in 1849. In 1852, they came to Illinois, settling upon a farm of 80 acres, on section 35, Western Township, where they have since made it their home. Since their location here, two children have been added to the family. August lived at home until 21 years of age, when he struck out into the world for himself, as a common laborer. His first purchase of real estate was 20 acres of land; and, after securing 40 acres from hjs parents, he purchased 20 acres more; and in 1879 he bought 80 acres adjoining, on the same section. His farm is is now well arranged, and in a good tillable condition. The only division is made by a road running throught the premises. By economy and judicious management he has been able to improve his farm and stock, and make them valuable. He is yet unmarried, his sister, Ann M., having been housekeeping for him since 1869. Mr. Peterson is a mem- ^f

SSP^^* the township of Annawan, and takes a well deserved position among the best class of residents in the county. He is the proprietor ot 520 acres of land, finely located and under the sort of culture which proves the owner to possess the right quality of judgment and industry to make a success of his operations in the line of agriculture. He came to Henry County in 1 85 2 , and has since endeavored to add his contribution to the general well-being of the community to which he belongs.

Mr. McNeeley was born in Jefferson Co., Ind., March 1, 1826. John McNeeley, his father, was a native of the State of Ohio, and was born in 1795. His wife, previous to her marriage with him, Miss Margaret A. Readenbough, was born i.n 1797. Their marriage took place in 1815. She was a native of the Buckeye State. She bore to her husband 12 children, - James, Sarah Ann, Catherine, Frederick, John, Jeremiah, William H., George, Thomas, Elizabeth, Samuel and Jacob. The senior McNeeley removed in his early life to Indiana, where he died in 1869. The death of his wife transpired in the same State in 1873.

The marriage of Mr. McNeeley to Sarah C. Slaughter was celebrated Oct. 29, 1851. Her birth occurred in Jefferson Co., Ind., Oct. 2, 1827, and she is the daughter of Jeremiah Slaughter. He was a native of the State of New York, where he was born in the year 1788. He was married to Rebecca Logan in 181 9. She was born in Hamilton Co., Ohio, in 1803. Their children, nine in number, were born in the following order : William Logan, Mary D., Elizabeth J., Martha A., Catherine S., John M., Daniel S., Julia A. and Isabel C. The deaths of the parents of Mrs. McNeeley took place respectively in 1872 and 1857. The children who have been added to the household of Mr. and Mrs. Mc- Neeley are named and were born as stated below: Margaret A. was born Aug. 4, 1852; John M., April

26. He obtained the title to his land from the Government of the United States when the land sales were made. The place is all well cultivated, and the stock with which it is supplied is of excellent quality, and includes a fine herd of thoroughbred Short-horns, of which ten head is registered stock. The horses owned by Mr. McNeeley are three fourths Norman in blood. The farm structures that have been erected by Mr. McNeeley are of a stamp suited to the dimensions of the place and the character of the proprietor.

ohn S. Swensson, Superintendent of the Swedish Orphan Home and Farm School, located on section 18, Andover Township, was born in the village of Andover, Dec. 15, 1858. His father, Jonas Swensson, was a native of Sweden, of old Swedish ancestry, and a farmer by occupation. He was born in 1828, and is now deceased.

After the death of his father, Mr. Jonas Swensson was educated in the schools of his native country for the ministry, graduating at CJpsala, Sweden, in 1850, and being ordained in October, 185 1. March 29, 1856, he married Mary Blixt, the daughter of a Swedish soldier. During the same year they came to America, settling in Sugar Grove, Warren Co., Pa., where he followed his calling, also officiating at Jamestown, Chautauqua Co., N. Y. In the fall of 1858 he emigrated to Illinois, locating at Andover, this county, where he took charge of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, and retained it until his death, which occurred Dec. 20, 1873. He was interested in the erection of the large new church at Andover, which stands there at the present time, and was the first originator of the Orphan Home at that place. He purchased the land upon which it was located, and devoted his best energies to the interests of the institution until it was fully established. His wife died Aug. 20, 1874, after having become the mother of seven children, six sons and one daughter ; three of the former are deceased. The living are : Carl A., who is married and resides in Lindsborg, Mc- Pherson Co., Kan., where he is a minister of the Swedish Lutheran Church ; the second is the subject of this sketch ; Anna M., who married Eben Carlson, a druggist, and resides at Lindsborg, Kan. ; Petrus L., who lives also at Lindsborg.

Mr. John S. Swensson resided at his parental home unlil the death of his father, and two years later he entered the Swedish Institute at Rock Island City, where he studied about three years ; then, in 1879, he went to Lindsborg, where he was engaged as a clerk in a hardware store for a year, and where he began teaching in the Swedish schools. In January, 1882, he assumed full control of the Orphan Home, a fuller account of which is given towards the close of this volume. Mr. S. has been a skillful and judicious Superintendent. He has been credited even with raising the home above the general average, if possible, of the previous years of its history. He also owns an equal interest in a half section of land in Garfield Township, Pawnee Co., Kan. In his political sentiments he is, like nearly all the Swedish population of this country, a Republican.

April 26, 1883, Mr. S. was married, in Andover, to Miss Mary E. C. Olsson, who was born at Hultsjo, Sweden, May 27, i860. Her parents were Andrew and Johanna (Blixt) Olsson. Her mother died in this country in 1867, very shortly after her arrival here. She came to the Orphan Home in 187 1, as an inmate and student, where she remained until her marriage.

Ifndrew P. Lawson, engaged in agriculture and the rearing of live stock, and residing on section 7, Western Township, was born in the central part of Sweden, May 25, 1824. His parents were Lewis Gustavson and Line Johnson, natives also of that portion of the Scandinavian Peninsula, were farmers and lived to be advanced in age, and both died in their native land, - the father when about 74 years old and the mother when nearly 80.

Mr. Andrew P. Larson, the eighth in a family of eleven children, resided with his parents, working upon the farm, until he was 2 1 years of age, when he was married, in March, 1845, to Miss Anna Soberger.

1 She was the daughter of a Swedish brick mason, and died in her native country Dec. 25, 1848, three years after her marriage. By that marriage there was one child, John A., who came to America with his father in 1856 ; and about i860, when he was 20 years old, he was accidentally drowned while bathing in Green River, near Colona, this county. Mr. Lawson was married a secotid-time in his native country in August, 1849, to Betty Johnson, and a year afterward they emigrated to this country, and for the first two . years resided in Swedona, Mercer Co., 111., removing thence to Western Township, this county, where they ' afterward purchased 80 acres of land on section 7, I and still later 80 acres more. His present aggregate of 160 acres is all under good methods of cultivation.

Mr. Lawson's second wife died in the fall of 1874, after having become the mother of four children, one of whom died in infancy. The reeord now stands : Charles P. married Mary Olsen and resides in Orion ; - Gustav was united in marriage with Hannah W. 1 Carlson, who came from Sweden, her native land, in : 1875. Gustav is the manager of the home farm, and ) he and his brother are also extensive grain-threshers. His children are Edward, Mabel, Arthur and a deceased infant. Albert, unmarried and residing with his brother, is the third child by Mr. Lawson's second marriage.

Mr. Lawson started the town of Crampton, and erected the building where the postoffice is kept, giving it the name it now holds. Charles P. was the first Postmaster and Gustav is now Assistant Postmaster at this place. The family are all strong Republicans.

j|olomon Minard. The subject of the folyp|L lowing personal sketch, who resides in K> ' Annawan, is one of the most respected and best known citizens of Henry County. He is a large land-owner, and for many years an active and extensive farmer, but at present is living the quiet and easy life of a retired farmer in the village of Annawan.

Here he was reared, educated and remained a subject of the British Government until 1836. At that time, in order to enjoy the better advantages offered by our Government, that he might feel free to think and act for himself, and to rear his family where they might enjoy the better and free institutions of learning, he came to the United States. He located at LaPorte, Ind., where he remained a year, when he came to the then little village of Chicago and spent another year. At the time he lived there, John Swigley was Sheriff of Cook County, and he offered to sell to Mr. Minard, and make a good title to, the ground upon which the Sherman House now stands for a span of horses. The situation was so unfavorable, and the outlook for a city of any considerable size ever being built there in the swamp so gloomy, that he declined to accept the offer. Finding nothing of interest or profit at Chicago, after remaining there a year he moved to La Salle County and was one of the early pioneers of that section of the State. He took an active part in the construction of the Illinois and Michigan Canal, which at that early day was supposed to be the only means of transportation. He built lock No. 13, and after remaining there six years, during which time he superintended nearly all the public works on that part of the Canal, he left and came to Henry County. He arrived here in 1850 and entered 160 acres of land where the village of Annawan now stands. He sold this to Charles Atkinson, who laid off the town . Mr. Minard was one of the early settlers in this part of the country, and of course suffered many of the inconveniences and hardships that befall the early settler in a new country. He frequently met Shabbona, the Indian Chief and friend of the white man. This celebrated Indian character was highly esteemed and well known by the pioneers in this portion of Illinois, and they always love to talk of his many kindnesses to the whites and relate incidents connected with him. Mr. Minard and Miss Mary Burrow were united in marriage in 1845. Mrs. Minard was born Jan. 22, 1822, in Randolph Co., N. C. Of the seven children born to Mr. and Mrs. Minard, all are deceased. Mr. Minard's parents, George and Elizabeth Minard, were natives of the Eastern States. The father was born near Bel'ows Falls, Vt., and died at Annawan, in 1864. The mother was born on the Mohawk River, N. Y., and survived her husband five years, also dying in Annawan.

Mr. Minard, the subject of this sketch, owns 600 acres of good and improved land in Annawan Township. He has served his township in the various local official positions, and politically is a Republican. The family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, with which Mr. Minard has been connected for 28 years.

eorge T. Melvin is a farmer of repute in the Township of Munson and came to Henry County in 1862. He was born Dec. 2, 1825, in Readfield, Kennebec Co., Me., and is the son of Benjamin and Eliza (Sargent) Melvin. His parents were of New Hampshire birth and were descendants of the Scotch-Irish who came from Londonderry, Ireland, ) and settled at Dunbarton, N. H. The posterity of v ^ that sturdy, frugal, honorable race, scattered through- ^ out all portions of the United States and worthily ° represent the spirit of their ancestors who twice 5& abandoned their homes to secure freedom of con- ° science, and they form one of the most reliable ele- £u ments of our mixed nationality. The parents of >, Mr. Melvin were born in Chester, Rockingham Co., (JN.IL

Until he was 18, Mr. Melvin was a member of the family of his father and was the assistant of the latter in the duties of the homestead farm. In 1843 he went to the city of Boston to learn the details of the business of a builder. He engaged with a firm of good repute and remained under their management two years, receiving $10 a month. He went thence to Cambridgeport and obtained a situation in a car shop. He operated there a year and then went into a repair shop in the service of the Fitchburg Railroad, situated at Charleston. Six months later he went to Portsmouth, N. H, and after working there six months he went to Laconia in the same State and was employed in the car-shops of the Ramlets until 1857. In that year he came to Illinois. He located at Rock Island, where he had charge of the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad repair shops five years.

has devoted his energies to its cultivation. The appearance of the place does the utmost credit, to his sense, industry and judgment. He has given his undivided attention to the business pertaining to mixed husbandry. The entire farm comprises 228 acres and is under improvements of the best character.

Mr. Melvin was married June 1, 185 r, to Miss Lucy A. Fox, who was born in Center Harbor, N. H., March 4, 1832, and died at their home in Munson Township, April 26, 1884. She was a lineal descendant of the Worcesters and Chases, two New England families who have done much to place our country in its present advanced position. Inheriting those sterling qualities from such an ancestry, she won the love and respect of all. A true wife, a noble mother and a dear friend, her loss was irreparable to her family and deeply mourned by a large circle of friends. They had two children : Frank S., born May 6, 1854, in Belknap Co., N. H. He was married in Geneseo, Henry Co., 111., Dec. 17, 1884, to Eva J., daughter of Bradbury H. and Sophia C. Thomas, natives of Maine, but now residing in Illinois. He is an esteemed citizen of Munson and for four years has been elected member of the Town Board. (See sketch.) Fred H., the youngest son, was born April 4, 1861, at Rock Island, 111. He married Alice, daughter of Major Albert and Louise McKinney, at Owatonna, Steele Co., Minn., Aug. 2r, 1884. The sons are both engaged in farming in Munson Township, this county.

eorge Wolf, engaged as a farmer on section 32, Annawan Township, is a native of Ohio, where he was born, in Knox County, Jan. 13, 1828. His father, George Wolf, was born April 1, 1782, in Pennsylvania, and married Miss Sarah Enlow in 1804. She was born in the Keystone State, in 1787, and died in Henry County, March 3T, 1855. George Wolf, Sr., lived to a very advanced age, and died in Henry County, March 7, 1884.

George Wol,f, of this sketch, was reared and educated in his State, and in the autumn of 1853 he came to Illinois and located upon the farm where he is now living. Shorly after his arrival here, and believing that it was not good for man to live alone, he was united in marriage with Miss Barbara Ann

Heaps, daughter of one of the well known pioneers of Henry County. The officiating clergyman was the Rev. Mr. Baker, of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Cambridge. Mrs. Wolf was born in Lancaster Co., Pa., June 15, 1837, and while a little child was brought to Adams Co., 111., her parents having located near Quincy. Four years later, Wm. G. Heaps, her father (see sketch), moved to Rock Co., Wis., where he settled near Beloit. After remaining there for 18 months, they came to this county, where they have since made their home.

George and Barbara Wolf are the parents of three children, all of whom are living: William P., the eldest, was born Sept. 13, 1857 ; Sarah, May 3, i860; Hiram M., Sept. n, 1862. Mr. Wolf has an excellent farm of 240 acres in Annawan Township, upon which is located a good farm dwelling 27 x 56 feet in size, and farm buildings of good quality. He is what is termed a general farmer, but gives some attention to raising Poland-China hogs and Short-horn cattle. He is one of the progressive and enterprising farmers of the township. Politically, he is a Democrat, and his wife is religiously a Baptist.

Henry County. He resides upon section 29, Annawan Township, where he has an excellent 240-acre farm. He was born in this county, Nov. 3, 1855, and until he reached his 21st year remained under the parental roof. During the meantime he attended the district schools and assisted his father at farm work. He not only acquired a fair education but became thoroughly versed in practical agriculture, which has enabled him to bring his farm to a high state of cultivation and manage it profitably. He has upon the place a nice story-anda-half brick dwelling, 30 x 30 feet in size, with a barn 26x30 feet, an excellent orchard and a good herd of graded Short-horns. He has also excellent horses and mules and fine Poland-China hogs. Politically, he is identified with the Republican party.

On the 19th of February, 1878, Mr. Johnson and Miss Rachel Moon were united in marriage, the Rev. B. Wagner, of the United Brethren Church, officiating. Mrs. Johnson is a daughter of one of the old and respected pioneers of Annawan Township. Her parents were Thomas and Ann Moon, the latter of whom is living in that township, and a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this volume. Mrs. Johnson was born in Bureau Co., 111., Jan. 5, 1861, and has become the mother of four children : Ly- ^ ford M., born Sept. 1, 1880; Norman E., Sept. io, 1881, and Ralph Elmer, March 9, 1884. James Clinton, born March 19, 1879, was the eldest, and died in infancy.

^ndrew G. Larson, general farmer and ^, stock-raiser, on section 9, Western Township, was born in Linkoping, Sweden, March 28, 1835. His father, Lars Swenson, also a native of Sweden and a farmer, married Beaty Hokins, who was also born in the same place. They both passed all their lives in Sweden, he dying over 80 years of age.

Of the seven children in the above family, the subject of this sketch was the second. The five younger are living and are all married but one ; two are living in America. Andrew lived at home until he was 1 8 years of age, when he engaged as a general laborer upon a farm. A year afterward, in 1854, he came alone to America, locating first in the city of Rock Island. He soon commenced to work in that vicinity as a brick manufacturer, and was also a farm hand for some time in this county. After his marriage, in 1859, he settled upon an 80-acre farm in Lynn Township, this county, to which he added 120 more, and improved the same and resided there until the spring of 1880. He then came to Western Township, where he purchased 100 acres, and to which he has since added by purchase 160 acres. He has now an aggregate of 260 acres, most of which is judiciously improved, his farm being one of the best in the township. Mr. Larson has been very successful as an agriculturist, and he is also highly esteemed by the community in which he resides. He has held the office of Road Commissioner and Township Collector ; has also been a Deacon in the Swedish Lutheran Church, and he is now holding the office of Trustee and Treasurer in that religious body. Mr. Larson was married at Andover, this county, Dec. 28, 1859, to Miss Helena S. Larson, who wa» born in Central Sweden, in April, 1836. Her parents,

Jonas Larson and Anna Larson, came to America about 1857, settling first in Geneseo, and afterward in Lynn Townsfiip, this county, where they spent the remainder of their days, being very aged at the time of their death. Mrs. Larson, the wife of Andrew G., died at her home in Lynn Township in 1879, leaving seven children, named Ida M., Emma S., Anna B., Oscar, Clara A., Francis A. and Victor H. Henry and Augusta are deceased. Mrs. L. was also a member of the Swedish* Lutheran Church.

illiam Wayne. Among the respected farmers of Western Township is classed the subject of the following sketch. He devotes his time and attention to general farming, and resides on section 9. He was born in the city of Philadelphia, April 1, 1827. His father, William Wayne, Sr., was also a native of the Quaker city, and a lineal descendant of the famous soldier, Anthony Wayne, and came from an old New England family of English extraction on both sides. William, Senior, was a hardware merchant in - the great city during his life-time, and was an earnest, hard worker and prominent in the business affairs of the city. He was married in Philadelphia, to Miss Rebecca Walker, who came from Lumberton, N. , J. Her father was a millwright, and of New England ancestry, and a descendant of the old Quaker families of that State, and the parents of the subject of our sketch inherited the same religious inclinations. His mother died in Philadelphia when William was only about six years of age. He continued to reside with his father, and received his schooling under a private tutor. Remaining at home until he reached his majority, he was married at Philadelphia and started out as an agriculturist. The maiden name of the lady, who thus signified her desire to share with him his fortunes and misfortunes, was Miss Edith Blackfan. She was born in Chester Co., Pa., was the daughter of a physician, and was reared and educated at home. After having borne two children, . Eliza, now deceased, and Mary E., now of Philadelphia, the wife died in that city.

After the death of his wife, Mr. Wayne came to Illinois and secured an unimproved farm in Western Township. At the time the tract of land consisted of 160 acres, which he has since put in a good state of cultivation, and fairly supplied with the necessary farm buildings, and where he has since resided. His success as a farmer is best told by stating that, besides the excellent farm upon which he lives,, he owns an entire section of land in Sedgwick Co., Kan., some of which has been well improved.

Mr. Wayne celebrated his second marriage in Osco Township, this county, Dec. 2, 1856. His second wife was Sirah E. Leibee, a daughter of George and Margaret (Deem) Leibee. Her parents were formerly from Middleton, Butler Co., Ohio, where Mrs. Wayne was born, March 9, 1835, and where she was reared and educated. She came with her parents to Illinois in 1856. They located in Osco Township, where her marriage to Mr. Wayne was shortly afterward celebrated. She is the mother of four children, all of whom are living, and a record of whom is as follows : George H. married Hattie Jones, and resides at Orion, where Mr. W. is engaged in the mercantile business ; Margaret L. is the wife of Edward Duffield, a farmer of Western Township ; Clara J. married Henry Crampton,and resides in Orion ; Charles resides with his parents at home. Mr. W. has held the minor offices of his township, and politically is a Republican.

§ j|( ndrew P. P. Gustafson, dealer in agricultt ural implements, wagons, carriages, etc., at Lynn Center, Lynn Township, this county, was born in Chicago, Sept. 28, 18^5. His father, C. G. Gustafson, was a native of Sweden, and a blacksmith by trade. He was married in his native country, to Miss Anna L. Newquist, a native also of Sweden. Just after their marriage in their native country, realizing that better opportunities were afforded in the United States for the accumulation of property, and hoping to better their condition in this country, they emigrated, arriving at and locating in Chicago. In that city they beeame the parents of two children, John G. A. and Andrew. In 1856 they came from Chicago to this county, where two more sons were born to them, Frank O. and Charles W. At present they are residing at Andover, where they are living in retirement.

tended the district schools, receiving a good English education. He was united in marriage in Lynn Township, this county, June 3, 1 88 1 , '[with' Miss Sophia M. Gran. She was the daughter of John Carlson and Anna L. (Johnson) Carlson, and the reason of a discrepancy in names is attributed to the fact that Mrs. G. prior to her emigration to this country had her name changed from Carlson to Gran. She was born in Sweden, Sept. ir, 1858, and was but 12 years of age when her father died. She emigrated to this country in company with her brother, John F., in 1875, locating in Lynn Township, this county. She afterward lived in Moline City, where she was engaged in domestic labor, at the residence of Uncle Charlie Gran, whose name she had adopted until her marriage. Her mother is at present residing in Lynn Township, with her daughter and son.

Mr. and Mrs. Gustafson are the parents of two children, - Annie S., born March 24, 1882, and Ernest F., born July 4, 1884. The latter died Aug. 29, 1884. After marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Gustafson lived on the parental homestead of 120 acres, in Andover Township. In the spring of T885 they came to Lynn Center, where Mr. Gustafson established his present business, in which he has met with signal success. He owns his stock and building, 40 x 55 feet in dimensions, with three lots and a good residence. He and his wife are members ef the Swedish Lutheran Church. Politically, he is identified with the Republican party.

K. Dyson, cashier of the Bank of Wood- |E hull, was born in Medina Co., Ohio, Sept. 16, 1856, and is the son of John W. and 5S. Arethusa M. (King) Dyson, who were natives respectively of England and New York State. His father was a wagon- maker and carriage manufacturer for many years, sold out in r867, moved to Galva, this county, and is now a resident of that place. The subject of this sketch received a liberal education at the public schools, and at the age of 16 years left home, and for three and a half years was engaged in a store at Galva; then for two years was general clerk in the postoffice at that place; next for nearly two years he was an employee in Beck's Bank at Galva ; then was a book-keeper for two years in Butters & Ober's agricultural store; and in 1878 he came to Woodhull and took charge of the books in the Farmers' Bank for T5 months; then for a time he was with H. Higgins, in partnership with whom he purchased the Farmers' Bank, and conducted the same for a year. Mr. Higgins then sold his interest to the firm of Howell, Woods & Co., April r, 1880, since which time they have managed the business of the concern.

Mr. Dyson was married Sept. 16, 1879, to Miss Carrie L. Rayley, a native of Ohio. Mr. D. is a Republican in his political sentiments, and both himself and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church, he holding the offices of Elder and Deacon. He holds the office of Township Treasurer, and is one of the leading men of Woodhull, known to be philanthropic, public-spirited and ever ready to lend a helping hand to every movement calculated to be a public benefit.

ackson Deets, general farmer and stockraiser, residing on section ir, Andover Township, was born in Canal Township, Venango Co., Pa., Feb. 7, 1835. His parents were Joseph and Sallie (Cousins) Deets, both natives of Pennsylvania and of German descent. Joseph Deets, the father of our subject, followed the occupation of a farmer until his death and was a soldier in the War of 181 2. He and his wife were members of the Wesleyan Methodist Church, but are both now deceased.

Jackson Deets, whose name heads this article, was one of 15 children of his parents' family, and remained under the parental roof-tree until his marriage, which occurred in his native township, Oct. 20, 1859, the lady with whom he was united being Miss Sarah A. Foster, born in the same county and township, April 25, 1838. Her parents were of Scotch ancestry and farmers by occupation. Mrs. D. was reared on her father's farm, and remained at home until her marriage, when she and her husband came West, about to days after their marriage, locating on a farm which he rented in Mercer Co., 111. About four years later, Mr. D., our subject, made a purchase of 140 acres of land in Knox Co., 111., where he resided for seven years, in the meantime putting his farm under excellent cultivation. At the end of this period he sold out his possessions in that county, and came to Andover Township, Henry County, at which place he made a purchase of 180 acres of land on sections n and 14. This he has made his permanent home, residing on the same since its purchase, the condition of which is well improved, and is excellent farming land. He has increased his landed possessions until at the present time they consist of 400 acres, which are divided into three parts, the divisions being the roads only. His house is a fine, large structure, and besides this he has fine, first-class barn and outbuildings. He is the owner of 1,400 acres of land in Nebraska, 500 of which is improved and in prime condition for agricultural or grazing purposes.

adock Elliott, residing on section 22, Clover Township, where he is engaged in the occupation of farming, is a native of Ohio, having been born in Belmont County, that State, April 12, 1823, his parents being Richard and Anna (Reed) Elliott, natives of Maryland and New York respectively. His father was a farmer by occupation, and he, together with his wife, resided in Ohio until their deaths, his occurring in January, 1838, and hers in August, 1873.

Zadock Elliott was an inmate of the parental household until 15 years of .age, during which time he received the advantages afforded by the common school and assisted in the labors of the farm. On reaching his 15th year he hired out as a common laborer on a farm, and for two years followed that vbcation. He then engaged in the saw-mill, where he continued to labor until he was 26 years of age. On reaching this age in life he rented a farm, which he cultivated with considerable success for three years. In the fall of 1852 Mr. Elliott removed to this State and county, settling in Clover Township, where he purchased 80 acres of land located on section 3. He moved on this land and engaged in the active labors incident to the cultivation of a new farm, and was there resident for 13 years. At the expiration of that time he sold the farm, and in 1866 purchased

160 acres, the same being the tract of land on which he at present resides. By energetic effort and economy, in 1875 he added 80 acres by purchase to his original tract, the same being located onQsection 23, and at present is the proprietor of 240 acres of good farming land in this county and a farm ot |i6o acres in Kansas. Since coming to Clover Township, he has erected a fine residence on his farm, set out trees, etc , and otherwise improved his place.

Mr. Elliott formed a matrimonial alliance Feb. 27, 1849, with Miss Nancy J., Unaccomplished daughter of James and Mary Grimes. The parents were both natives of Ohio and there died, her father in May, 1879, and her'mother March 19, 1878.

The union of Mr. and Mrs.|Elliott has been blessed by the birth of 13 children, - Mary A., Clarissa E., Francenia E., Damaris, Eliza J., James S., John F., Wallace L., Florence E., Mory, Holly E. and Allen B. One daughter. Sarah Emma, born March 31, 1 86 1, died May 6, 1861, the same year. Eight of the children are married, - Mary A. to Joseph H. Slater; Francenia to Christopher Slater; Clarissa to Albert Perkins ; Damaris married Hezekiah Brown ; Eliza J. to Louis Bernard ; James L. to Ella McCung; and Florence E. to Carey Like. John F. is married to Sarah Ida Ramsey.

Mr. Elliott, politically, affiliates with the. Democratic party. Religiously, he and his wife are both members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Socially, Mr. E. belongs to thelMasonic Order. He has has held the different offices of the township.

ames G. Davis, a farmer and raiser of live f stock on section io, Andover Township, was born in Rockingham Township, Windham Co.,Vt, Jan. 31, 1825. His parents were IT also natives of the Green Mountain State, his father, Hiram being a farmer, and who married Melinda Stephens, in Washington Co., N. Y., and died in Windsor Co., Vt., and his mother died in the township of Geneseo, this county, in May, 1883, both at an advanced age.

Mr. J. G. Davis, the fifth in order of birth of a family of nine children, was educated in the public schools of Washington Co., Vt., and when he became of age he emigrated West, locating in Bureau County, this State. From 1852 to 1855 he was in California, where he enjoyed fair success. Returning to this State, he came to Andover Township, this county, and purchased 195 acres of good farming land, where he has since made his home. He also'owns over three half sections in Keith Co., Neb., some of which is improved. Mr. Davis breeds the Short-horn variety of cattle, and Clydesdale and Norman varieties of horses.

Mr. D. has been Township Trustee for a number of years, and in his social relations he is a member of the Masonic fraternity, of which body he has been a Deacon and is now a Steward.

In Cambridge, March 3, 1859, Mr. Davis married Carrie Simonton, who was born in Portland, Me., Dec. 26, 1830. Her parents, Benjamin, a farmer, and Anna (Buck) Simonton, were natives of Newfoundland, and settled in Portland, Me., after their marriage. Mrs. D. was 18 years of age when she came from the last-named point to the West. Her parents afterward died in Cass Co., Iowa, her father in February, 1883, and her mother in May following. There are now five living children in the family of Mr. Davis, besides one deceased, namely: Frank H., a resident of Menlo, Iowa; Fred S., William I., Mary D., Anna L. S., residing at home; Eddie died in infancy.

j| ev. H. H. Like, a retired farmer and minister of the Christian Church, was born in New York, Sept. 22, 1831. His parents were Henry and Amy (Husted) Like, natives of New York, in which State his father followed the occupation of a farmer, and where both parents resided until thejr" deaths, - the mother dying in 1832 and the father in 1868.

Rev. Like remained with his parents on the old homestead until he attained the age of 20 years, having attended the district schools and the Cary Collegiate Institute in Geneseo. After leaving home he commenced preaching, and followed that profession in the East for eight years. His first effort at preaching was in Hermitage, Wyoming Co., his native State. After preaching in the East- for the time stated, he came to this State and located in Geneseo, this county, and took charge of the Church at Morristown. He also rented a farm, which he cultivated in connection with preaching the gospel. In 1863 he purchased a farm of 80 acres, located on section 32, Woodhull Township, near the present village of that name, and cultivated his land in connection with preaching. He was ordained in 1864. In 1875 Rev. Like sold his 80-acre farm and purchased another consisting of 160 acres, located on section 24, on which he moved and resided until 1883. Since that date he has resided in Woodhull, retired from the active labors of life.

Rev. Like was united in marriage, Oct. n, 1857, with Miss Sarah A. McWain, a native of New York. Their union has been blessed by the birth of four children, - Elizabeth A., born July 16, r86i, died Feb. 26, 1862; Carry H., born Aug. 28, 1863; Jessie A., March 13, 1870, and Gracie M., Feb. 13, i88r. Politically, Mr. Like is a believer in the principles of the Republican party. Socially, he is a member of the Masonic Order, and is a gentleman noted for his worth and respected for his frank and manly dealings with his fellow man.

-o - <garren B. Smith, residing on section 10, Galva Township, was born June 28, 1847, in Caledonia Co., Vt. The ancestors of Mr. Smith were of English extraction. His grandfather, William Smith, was born in Vermont, followed the occupation of a farmer in that State, and died there, aged 80 years, his( father having been a soldier in the Revolutionary War. He (William Smith) was married in Vermont, to Miss Susan Fry, a native of Caledonia Co., that State, and is yet living in Kewanee, this State, with her daughter, Mrs. Lucretia Chesley, aged 90 years. She is the mother of a large family. Of her children, Frederick Smith was born in Vermont and died in Wethersfield Township, this county, May 30, 1884, aged 6r years. He was a farmer by occupation and came West in 1851, settling in Stark County. He resided there ' for about five years before his death, when he removed to Wethersfield Township, this county, where he died. He married Nancy Way, a daughter of Nathan Way and a native of Vermont. She is yet' living in Wethersfield Township, and is the mother of seven children, four of whom survived, namely :

Warren B. Smith, our subject, was reared on a farm in Stark County, this State, receiving his education in the common schools and developing into manhood. In September, 1864, he enlisted in Co. H, 146th 111. Vol. Inf., and served in the war until July n, 1865, when he was mustered out. After the war was over and the cause for which he fought was victorious, he returned home and engaged in the occupation which he had followed all his life, agriculture. He is now residing on section 10, Galva Township, where he has a farm of 200 acres of land and is meeting with success in his chosen vocation.

Mr. Smith was united in marriage, Feb. n, 1869, in Wethersfield Township, this county, with Miss Myra Smith. She was the daughter of William Smith, and was born Aug. 14, 1849, in Wabash, Wabash Co., Ind., and has become the mother of three -.children, - Fannie E., born Feb. 15, 1870; Elmer W., April 22. 1872, and Forrest F., Dec. 24, 1878. Politically, Mr. Smith votes with the Democratic party. He has held the office of Commissioner of Highways for three years, and is one .of the respected citizens of his township and county.

JWvvJfe-gr ugustus Sherman, liveryman in the village of Woodhull, is from the State of New York. He was born in Essex County, that State, June 4, 1841. His parents, Samuel and Azuba (Green) Sherman, were also natives of the same State and came to Illinois in 1850, settling in Galesburg, near which point they purchased 200 acres of land ; but in 1874 Mr. S. retired from actual labor in agricultural pursuits, sold his farm, and died in 1875. His wife still resides in that city.

Mr. Augustus Sherman, the subject of this biographical notice, was an inmate of the parental home until 14 years of age, receiving a common-school education. After leaving the home he was a laborer upon a farm for a period of five years ; he then rented a farm until 1862, when he enlisted in the war for the Union, becoming a member of Co. D, iD2d 111. Vol. Inf., and served two years and ten months in Sherman's army. He participated in all the principal battles in which his regiment was engaged from Reseca, Ga., to Goldsboro', N. C. During his term of service he was taken prisoner at the place last-named and was kept in confinement for 39 days. At the battle of New Hope Church he was wounded in the head, but within two weeks afterward he was again on duty. He carried the flag during all of the Atlantic campaign ; was honorably discharged after the close of the war, May 30, 1865.

Returning home, he rented his father's farm, consisting of a quarter of a section of prairie land. After cultivating and managing that for eight years, he moved to this county and for three years rented &'- farm ; he then purchased 80 acres of land in Ontario Township, Knox County, and occupied it two years ; he then sold that and moved to Altona Township, same county, and for three years conducted a farm of 120 acres; next he sold that and purchased 80 acres in Oxford Township, this county, and resided there one year, when he finally sold that and bought his present livery establishment at Woodhull, where he is enjoying a prosperous business.

Mr. Sherman was united in the bonds of matrimony with Miss Jennett Marble, who was born in Knox County, Ohio, March 12, 1842. The four children born to Mr. and Mrs. Sherman are Minnie E., born Oct, 3, 1861; Letta M.,. April 23,1870; Merta A., Oct. 11, 1881 ; and Rena B., July 24; 1884.

Mr. Sherman is a Republican in his views of national affairs, he is a School Director, City and Township Constable, a member of the Village Council and of the G. A. R.

amuel J. Laird, engaged in the livery business at Woodhull, where he is meeting with success in his chosen vocation1, is. a native of Pennsylvania, having been born in that State June 8, 1847, his parents being Joseph and Sarah (Adams) Laird, natives of that State, where her mother died 1852. Joseph Laird, father of the subject of this notice, came to this State in 1853, and settled in Pike County, where he engaged in mercantile business, which he followed for six years. He then, in 1858, sold out and came to Oxford Township, this county, where he rented a farm, which he continued to cultivate until 1863

During that year he purchased 80 acres of land, on which he located with his family, and which he successfully cultivated and improved for 22 years, and then, in 1877, retired from the active labors of life, and rented his farm until the date of his death, June 7, 1885. He was married to his second wife, Mrs. Charlotte Grove, in 1862. By his first marriage five children were born, - Margaret E., Minerva J., Kate M., Samuel J. and Thomas A.

Samuel J. resided with his parents until he had attained the age of 26 years, having received a good English education in the district schools of his native county. The major portion of his life prior to his majority was passed on the farm, and until the age last named, when he left the parental roof-tree and went forth to fight life's battle single-handed and alone. He first engaged in the butcher business, which he followed for six years, when he abandoned it and followed shipping stock for a year. He then engaged in the livery business at Woodhull, where he had been previously interested in business. He is still following the livery business at that place, and in March, 1885, in connection with the same, added the butchering business. He is meeting with success in his chosen vocation at that place, and by strict attention to business and honest dealings has established a good and paying trade in each branch of his business. Mr. Laird was married June 25, 1885, to Miss H. E. Cornell, a native of Ohio. Politically, he is a believer in the tenets of the Democratic party, and socially he is a member of the I. O. O. F.

: saiah Richmond, of Geneseo, is one of the pioneer nurserymen of Henry County, whither he came in 1852. He established himself in the business named immediately on his arrival, carrying out the purpose for which he came. In December subsequent to his arrival, he bought 60 acres of land whereon to begin his enterprise, which is now included within the corporate limits of Geneseo, and is designated Richmond's Addition. He removed his family here in 1854, and in the same year admitted Mr. N. B. Huntington to a partnership. Between two and three years later he bought the interest of his associate, and continued his operations alone until 1878,

Mr. Richmond was born in Middleborough, Mass., Aug. 5, 1809, and is the son of Benjamin and Abigail (Dean) Richmond His earliest traceable ancestor, Deacon Joseph Richmond, was of English birth or descent, the progenitors of the family having come to America in ante-Colonial days. The grandfather of Mr. Richmond of this sketch was a soldier of the Revolution, and won commendation for the services he performed. He was a Deacon in the Congregational Church, as was his son. Mr. Richmond was reared on a farm, and was married at Scituate, R. I., Oct. 28, 1833, to Eliza A., daughter of Jeremiah A. Fenner. She was born in the town where the marriage took place. n Her father was a near relative of James Fenner, one of the Governors of Rhode Island, and the family to which she belongs is'one of the oldest in the State. Four children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Richmond before their removal to Illinois. Jeremiah, the oldest, was born in Massachusetts, Nov. 19, T834, and died May 5, 1879. The three next younger were born in Scituate, R. I. Joseph married Clara McClelland, and is in the nursery business at Geneseo. Mary jE. lives at Geneseo. Edwin A. was born Oct. 4, 1842, and died Dec. 13, 1880. He left a widow and three children - two sons and a daughter. The eldest son left a wife and child, who are in California. Abigail was born Oct. 3. 1844, in Tazewell Co., III., and died July 12, 1872. Maria L. and Francis E. were twins, and were born Aug. 17, 1847, in Tazewell County. The latter married Mary A. Hopkins, and he is a farmer in the township of Geneseo. His wife is the daughter of S. G. Hopkins, and was born in Connecticut.

Prudence was born March 27, 1850, and died in childhood. Helen A. was born at Geneseo, April 13. l8SS- She is the wife of Mortimer Fleet, and they are residents of Munson Township.

Mr. Richmond became a citizen of Scituate, R. I., in 1836. He came to Tazewell Co., 111., in 1843, settling in the spring of that year in Groveland. He was there engaged in farming until he came to Geneseo in the year named. The former political connections of Mr. Richmond were with the Republicans, but latterly he has indorsed the tenets of the

}i|pgWlex. W. Albro, residing at Galva, was born Nov. 22, 1824, in Warren Co.,N. Y., and is a son of Samuel and Polly (Green) Albro, natives of Rhode Island and New York respectively. They were married in the latter State, where he followed the occupation of a farmer. He was also a soldier in the War of 1812: They came to Medina Co., Ohio, about 1833, and remained there until November, 1835, when they removed to Fort Clark, now Peoria, of this State, where they remained a short time. The next spring they came to near where Wyoming, in Stark Co., this State, is located. They erected a dwelling that fall, and in the autumn of 1836 moved to Lynn Township, Knox County, where he entered 160 acres of land with a soldier's warrant. The land was located on Walnut Creek, and comprised both timber and prairie. They located on the land mentioned, and engaged actively and energetically in its cultivation, and continued to reside there until their deaths. Their family comprised eight children, namely: James, Phebe, Stephen G., Benjamin, John, Alex. W., subject, of this notice, Deborah and Eliza. Of these children, John, Mrs. Eliza Rounds and our subject are the' only survivors.

Alex. W. Albro, on account of the newness of the country at the time in which his parents settled in it, and the necessity which compelled him to assist in the labors of the farm and the maintenance of the family, only received three months' schooling, which was in Knox County. He was reared on the farm, and at the date of his father's death, being 17 years t>f age, was apprenticed to learn the wagon-maker's trade, at which he worked for about ten years. He then again engaged in farming, and followed that occupation five years. In June, 1855, about the time the town started, he came to Galva to live, having previous to this time worked on the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad, grading track. He was then in the mercantile business, from 1855 until 1862, and was also engaged in buying grain during the same period. In August, 1862, Mr. Albro enlisted in the 112th

111. Vol. Inf., Co. G., as private, and was afterward elected Captain. He served his country until April, 1863. He was stationed part of the time at Lexington, Ky., on provost duty. After returning from the war he again went to Galva, where he engaged in the hotel and livery business, owning what is known as the " Baker House " for many years, and which he conducted for four years. He then leased it for five years, but at the expiration of two years sold it to Brewer & Baker. While the Rock Island & Peoria Railroad was being built, Mr. Albro took a contract for the building of ten miles of its track northwest of Galva, which contract he successfully completed. Having traded his Galva property for Nebraska lands, he has spent the last years of his life principally in attending to his western property.

Mr. Albro has been married twice. His first wife was Miss Esther Wilcox, who died in Knox County, and he was again married 10 Emily Spalding, a daughter of Dr. Spalding, deceased, and a well known pioneer and surgeon of the noted 112th III. Vol. Inf., and also a gentleman high in the Masonic Order. Mrs. Albro was born in 1827, in New York city, and has borne her husband six children. Of these, Mrs. Esther Babbitt and Hattie H. are yet living; the four others, Charles O., Florence J., Ella D. and infant daughter, are deceased. Mr. Albro has been a very active worker in the ranks of the Republican party, and filled numerous minor offices in the gift of the people of the county, having been Deputy Sheriff on two separate occasions, and having held other minor offices. He was one of the incorporators of the First National Bank at Galva, and was a director of the same. From 1868 to 1872, he was Deputy United States Revenue Assessor for Henry County, serving in that capacity for more than four years.

Hamuel Chamberlain has been a resident of Geneseo since March, 1856. He is well known throughout a large section of Western Illinois for his efforts in the way of improving the breeds of horses, and has been of more practical benefit in this direction than any other man within this or in adjacent counties.

lain. He was reared to manhood in the Bay State, and was there married, Nov. 7, 1843, to Delliza Reynolds. Mrs. Chamberlain was born in Charlton, Worcester Co., Mass., and is the daughter of James and Dolly (Vinton) Reynolds. Dulcenia is the name of the only child of Mr. and Mrs. Chamberlain. She was born in the same place as her parents.

In 1855 Mr. Chamberlain removed to Moline, in the county of Rock Island, and in the year following fixed his residence in Geneseo. Since coming to the latter place he has been continuously engaged in the business in which he is at present interested. The stock he keeps is justly celebrated for its merits and his stables commonly exhibit from seven to ten animals of superior type and pure thoroughbreds of registered and acknowledged ^reputation.