Henry County, Illinois - The whole text, 1910 (part 10 of 32)

Britain. When the yoke of British oppression became intolerable and the colonists made the attempt to sever all allegiance with the crown he was in hearty, sympathy with the movement and served for eight years in the army which won American independence. He was with Washington during the memorable winter at Valley Forge where the American troops underwent untold hardships and he participated in many of the long campaigns and hotly contested battles of the war. He was of German descent and died in Pennsylvania when well advanced in years. The maternal grandfather of our subject passed away in the Keystone state at the advanced age of ninety-two years after devoting his active business life to farming.

Joseph Ringle, the father of William Ringle, was a farm.er and dairyman and came to Illinois in 1857, settling in Munson township, Henry county, where he purchased eighty acres of land to which he afterward added one hundred and sixty acres. Upon this he reared his family and greatly improved the property, making it a valuable farm. He died at the home of his son William in Osco township, his wife surviving him for several years. Both were members of the Presbyterian church. Their family numbered seven children who yet survive: James; Katharine, the wife of Harrison Moore; John; Louisa, the wife of Andrew J. Combs ; William ; Mary, the wife of John Sherrard and David W. Of this family John Ringle served for three years as a soldier in the Civil war with the Ninth Illinois Cavalry.

William Ringle was a lad of only ten years when he accompanied his parents to this county and upon his father's farm his youthful days were passed in the free and untrammeled life of the fields. He attended the district schools and the Orion Prairie Home Academy, while his business training was received under the direction of his father who assigned to him such farm duties as his age and strength permitted. He resolved to make his life work the occupation to which he had been reared and with one horse he started out for himself on a tract of rented land. For several years he continued to cultivate farms which he leased but during that period carefully saved all that he made above necessary expenses and eventually was enabled to purchase one hundred and sixty acres of land in Osco township. He still owns that property and has made other investments until his possessions in this county aggregate three hundred and twenty acres, while in Grant county, Minnesota, he owns six hundred and forty acres. He continued to reside on his farm in Osco township until the spring of 1909, when he removed to Cambridge. He is now the senior partner of the firm of William Ringle & Company, owners of a large elevator and conducting an extensive business in grain. He also has voice in the management of the First National Bank at Cambridge, being its vice president.

On the 23d of October, 1873, Mr. Ringle was married to Miss Ellen E. Welton, whose birth occurred near Henry, Illinois. Her parents, Lester C. and Ora (Welton) Welton were natives of Connecticut and, coming to Henry county at an early day, settled near Osco. Her father was one of the foremost men of the township in pioneer times and took an important part in shaping its policy and promoting its growth. Both he and his wife died in Hutchinson. Kansas, and were laid to rest in the cemetery there. Their family numbered two sons and two daughters: James, Merritt, Helen and Margaret.

In his political views William Ringle is a republican and for several terms served as supervisor and in other township offices. No trust reposed in him has ever been betrayed in the slightest degree. Mrs. Ringle is a member of the Episcopal church while Mr. Ringle is a member of the Presbyterian church. Mr. Ringle is well known as a man of integrity, of business ability, of keen insight and of public spirit so that his words carry weight in matters of vital importance to the community and he is widely recognized as a most influential and progressive citizen.

Well equipped for the life work she has undertaken, Dr. Kate E. Armstrong is winning substantial success in the active practice of medicine. She was born in Wethersfield township, a daughter of John and Jean (Rule) Armstrong. The father is a farmer by occupation and still resides upon a good farm in Wethersfield township, but the mother passed away in 1888.

Dr. Armstrong spent her girlhood days in her parents' home, pursued he^ early education in the country schools, afterward attended the high school at Kewanee and then completed her literary education in Knox College at Galesburg. Her professional training was received in the Woman's Medical College of Pennsylvania, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and thus in broad and practical experience of hospital practice she gained knowledge and ability that well qualified Aer to enter independently upon the profession she had chosen as a life work. In 1908 she opened an office in Kewanee, where she has since engaged in general practice of medicine and surgery, and although her residence here covers but two years she has already done good work and secured a gratifying patronage. She is a member of the Physicians Club of Kewanee, the Henry County Medical Society, the Illinois State Medical Society and the American Medical Association, and through these connections keeps in close touch with the work that is being done by the fraternity. Her religious faith is that of the Prebyterian church and in the social circles of the city she has won many warm and enduring friends.

The Kewanee National Bank

One of the most substantial financial institutions of Henry county and of this part of the state, is the Kewanee National Bank, which was organized in 1893, with George A. Anthony, as president; D. K. Fell, vice president; R. E. Taylor, cashier; and R. O. Becker, assistant cashier. It was capitalized for fifty thousand dollars all paid in, and the success of the business is indicated in the fact that in 1907 the capital stock was increased to seventy-five thousand dollars, while the surplus now amounts to sixty-five thousand dollars. The officers are the same as when organized, with the exception of E. J. Faull, who is now assistant cashier, and in connection with the officers Dr. W. H. Cole, A. Hallin, W. B. McClure, Ed G. Green and Dr. John H. Ohver, are members of the board of directors. In 1902 a savings department was added and three per cent interest is paid on savings accounts. In the year 1909 about three hundred safety deposit boxes were installed. These are specially constructed in a vault with all modern equipment and the bank is supplied with every modern accessory that makes it a well appointed institution. The company owns its own bank building, a brick structure with stone front, twenty-five by sixty-four feet and three stories in height with basement. The second floor is utilized for offices while club rooms are on the third floor. The report of the Kewanee National Bank made April 28, 1909, shows the institution to be in excellent condition and the safe, conservative policy which was inaugurated at the outset has always been maintained and merits the support of the general public.

John Rogers

John Rogers, successfully devoting his time and energies to general agricultural pursuits, was born on the farm where he now resides on section 28, Cambridge township, his natal day being September 8, 1876. His father, Joseph Rogers, was born in Ohio, and his mother, Mary (Eaton) Rogers, was a native of Pennsylvania. The paternal grandfather, John Rogers, who was likewise born in the Buckeye state, came to Henry county, Illinois, in 1853, and took up his abode in Burns township. The farm which he there purchased remained his place of residence until he passed away at a ripe old age. Unto him and his wife were born the following children : Joseph ; Edward ; Jacob ; Tena, the wife of Frank Taylor, of Tecumseh, Nebraska; Edith, the wife of Coe Corwin, of Burns township; and several who died in infancy. The maternal grandfather of our subject, Hugh Eaton, whose birth occurred in the north of" Ireland, was of Scotch-Irish descent. In early manhood he wedded Miss Phebe Munson and they became pioneer settlers of Burns township, this county. They were both well advanced in years when called to their final rest. Their family numbered fourteen children, namely: Mary, Susan, Stephen, James, George, William, Oscar, Matilda, Margaret, Anna, Caroline and three who died in early life.

Joseph Rogers, the father of John Rogers, was brought to this county by his parents in his infancy, while the lady who afterward became his wife accompanied her parents to Henry county when a maiden of fourteen years. They were reared and married in Burns township and began their domestic life in Cambridge township, where Joseph Rogers purchased the farm of eighty acres which remained his place of residence throughout the remainder of his life. As the years passed by and his financial resources increased, owing to his untiring industry and capable management, he extended the boundaries of his farm by addition purchases until it embraced about seven hundred acres of rich and productive land. He gave his attention to general agricultural pursuits throughout his active business career and in addition to cultivating the various cereals best adapted to soil and climate, also raised, bought and shipped stock on an extensive scale. For more than thirty years, he made his home within the borders of this county and was widely recognized as one of its most successful and respected citizens. His political allegiance was given to the republican party, while his religious belief was indicated by his membership in the Baptist church, in the faith of which he passed away on the 5th of November, 1905, when fifty-four years of age. His widow still survives and makes her home in Cambridge at the present time. She formerly belonged to the Christian church but now holds membership in the Baptist church. She is the mother of two sons and two daughters, as follows : John, of this review ; Phebe C. ; Clara E., the wife of Leonard Johnson, of Cambridge township ; and Frank M., living in Cambridge.

John Rogers was reared on the old homestead farm of his father and has continued to reside thereon to the present time. At the usual age he began his education in the district schools and subsequently pursued his studies in the Cambridge high school. The duties and labors incident to the operation of a farm had early become familiar to him through the assistance which he rendered his father in the cultivation of the fields, and after putting aside his text-books he took up farming as a life work. Energetic, progressive and enterprising, he is meeting with well merited success in his labors as an agriculturist and has gained favorable recognition among the substantial and representative citizens of the community.

On the 28th of December, 1898, Mr. Rogers was united in marriage to Miss Frances N. White, whose birth occurred in Ophiem, Lynn township, Henry county, Illinois, on the 30th of July, 1877. Her parents, Robert and Elizabeth (Neal) White, both of whom were natives of England, became early settlers of Henry county, this state. They first took up their abode in Cambridge township, later located in Lynn township and in 1885 established their home in Woodhull, Clover township, where they still reside. Of their family of twelve children, ten reached years of maturity, namely: Mary, the wife of John Atkinson, of Caldwell, Kansas ; Sarah, the deceased wife of William Corp ; William, who is living on the home place in Clover township; John, a resident of Knox county, Illinois ; Maria, the wife of E. Nelson, of Moline ; Lena Angeline, the wife of Isaac Snow, of Munson township ; Ethel, who is the wife of Logan Stiers and resides near Alpha; Alice, of Woodhull; Leslie A., of Galesburg; and Mrs. Rogers. James White, the paternal grandfather of Mrs. Rogers, was a native of England but became a pioneer settler of this county. His demise occurred in Lynn township when he had attained the venerable age of about eighty-one years. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Rose Smith, was ninetyfour years of age when called to her final rest. Their children were six in number : Mary, Sarah, Maria, Charlotte, Thomas and Robert. The maternal grandfather of Mrs. Rogers was Stephen Neal, a native of England, where he passed away in middle life. His wife, Mrs. Eliza Neal, was about forty-five years old at the time of her demise. Unto them were born eight children : Stephen, Ann, Eliza, John, Thomas, William, Sarah and Elizabeth. Mr. and Mrs. Rogers have become the parents of eight children, namely : Clyde H., Alice Fern, Mabel May, Joseph White, Raymond D. and three who died in infancy.

In his political views Mr. Rogers is a republican and at the present time is doing valuable service for the cause of education as a school director. He is a Methodist in religious faith, and both he and his wife are devoted members of that church. They have a wide and favorable acquaintance throughout the county in which they have always resided and are highly esteemed as worthy representatives of honored pioneer families, whose labors contributed in large measure to the early development and upbuilding of this part of the state.

William H. Atwood

William H. Atwood, who for many years was identified with farming interests in Henry county but is now living retired in Geneseo, was born in New London on the Erie canal, in Oneida county, New York, April 29, 1838. His parents were Bachus and Sarah (Tuttle) Atwood. They, too, were natives of the Empire state and resided in the east until 1855, when they removed to Henry county, Illinois, where they remained until called to their final rest. The father died when more than seventy years of age, and the mother, who was born in 1820, passed away in 1861. They were the parents of three sons and two daughters : William H. ; Almarette, who is the widow of Newell S. Smith and resides in Rockford, Illinois; Judson M.; Jerome N.; and Sarah Ann, the wife of James Wright.

William H. Atwood remained a resident of Oneida county, New York, until about seventeen years of age, when he accompanied his parents on their removal to Henry county, Illinois. He has since lived here, covering a period of more than a half century, and during this time has witnessed a remarkable transformation, for at the time of his arrival the district was largely undeveloped and unimproved, while its hemes were of a primitive character. There came to the county, however, a substantial class of enterprising citizens, who recognized the opportunities ofifered in the natural resources of the county and earnestly set to work to establish homes here and conduct business interests, which should prove a source of profit. William H. Atwood became connected with the farming interests of the county, being at first employed at farm labor by the month. He carefully saved his earnings and after a few years was thus enabled to purchase a tract of eighty acres in Munson township. It was raw prairie, but he at once began its development and cultivation, and soon the fields were bringing forth rich harvests. It was upon that farm that he reared his family and there resided until 1901, when he removed to Geneseo, where he and his wife now make their home. He still owns his well improved farm, however, and derives therefrom a good annual income.

On the 23d of August, 1863, Mr. Atwood was united in marriage to Miss Louisa Olson, who was born February 4, 1842, and is a daughter of Nicholas and Caroline (Carlson) Olson. They were both natives of Sweden and on coming to America in 1847 they settled in Mercer county, Illinois. The father was not long permitted to enjoy his new home, for his death occurred in 1852, when he was fifty-six years of age. His widow survived for some time and passed away in her sixty-seventh year. They were the parents of two sons and two daughters : John P. Olson ; Matilda, the wife of Charles Hero ; Andrew Olson; and Mrs. Louisa Atwood. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Atwood have been born a son and daughter, Charles H. and Adelia. The latter was married on Wednesday, January 6, 1892, to Henry Smith, of Osco township, and they now reside in Geneseo. Mrs. Smith is a member of the Christian church and is well known socially.

The son, Charles H. Atwood, was reared on the old home farm in this county, and after attending the district schools to acquaint himself with the elementary branches of learning, he continued his education in the Geneseo Normal. He then remained on the old homestead until he had attained his majority, after which he accepted a position as traveling salesman and thus served for four years. He then followed farming for five years, after which he took up his abode in Geneseo and purchased the laundry formerly owned by Jacob Winans. He has continued the business since 1901, or for a period of eight years, and has a well equipped plant, while efficient help enables him to turn out excellent work that insures him a liberal patronage.

In 1902 Charles H. Atwood was married to Miss Lieugora O'Meara, a daughter of Michael and Mary O'Meara. Mrs. Atwood is a member of the Catholic church. By this marriage there are two children : Mary Louise and Royce Henry. Mr. Atwood belongs to Stewart Lodge, No. 92, A. F. & A. M., and Geneseo Chapter, No. 12, R. A. M. He is in hearty sympathy with the purposes of the craft which finds its basic element and belief in universal brotherhood. He belongs also to the Christian church and he gives his political allegiance to the republican party. While not an active politician in the sense of office seeking he has served as alderman from the first ward and is interested in all that per-, tains to the municipal welfare and substantial progress of Geneseo.

John T. Cummings

John T. Cummings, attorney at law, practicing at the Kewanee bar as junior partner of the firm of Wilson & Cummings, was born in Mount Vernon, Ohio, on the 26th of October, 1866. His parents were William and Mary (Cassiday) Cummings. The father, a farmer by occupation, came to Illinois in 1867, establishing his home at Oregon, Ogle county. There John T. Cummings was reared, and the public schools afforded him his early educational privileges, while later he attended the Teachers Training School in Oregon. He then taught school for two years, after which he attended the Northern Illinois Normal College at Dixon, Illinois, and was graduated therefrom with the class of 1889. When his literary course was completed he turned his attention to the study of law for he had regarded the teacher's preparation but as a stepping-stone to other labor. In June, 1895, he was admitted to the bar following the completion of a course in the Kent College of Law in Chicago. He not only had the theoretical train- ing but also the practical experience which came to him from his connection, in a clerical capacity, with the law firm of Bangs, Wood & Bangs, of Chicago, during his college days. Following his graduation he practiced law in the Illinois metropolis for four years in connection with A. J. Redmond and then returned to Oregon, following his profession in that city and in Rochelle, Illinois, until 1903, when he came to Kewanee. Here he entered into a partnership with F. J. Tilton under the firm style of Cummings & Tilton, which existed until 1907. In that year he became a partner of Judge C. C. Wilson, and the firm of Wilson & Cummings has since engaged in general practice with a large and distinctly representative clientage connecting them with much of the important litigation tried in the courts of the district. McCummings does not fear that laborious attention to the case which must always precede its presentation in the courts, his preparation being most thorough and exhaustive. He is forceful in argument, logical in his deductions and his application of legal principles indicates the clearness of his judgment relative to the principles of jurisprudence.

Mr. Cummings is a member of the Kewanee Bar Association. He is also a trustee of the Knights of Columbus, and his religious faith is that of Catholicism, his membership being in the church of the Visitation.

Edward C. Weinrich

Edward C. Weinrich, of Geneseo, is a member of the firm of F., E. &. G. Weinrich, horse breeders and farmers. His birth occurred in Geneseo township, Henry county, Illinois, May 20, 1869, and as the name indicates he is of German lineage. His parents, William and Christina (Kipping) Weinrich, were both natives of Germany, and, crossing the Atlantic to America, William Wienrich settled first in St. Louis, where he lived for several years. He afterward came to Henry county, Illinois, about 1852 and for a time resided in Geneseo, but, turning his attention to general agricultural pursuits, he purchased and improved one hundred and sixty acres of land in Geneseo township. It was railroad land when he took possession of it, but he broke the sod, harrowed the fields, planted the seed and in due course of time brought forth rich crops. Year after year he carefully tilled the soil until he retired from active farming and removed to Geneseo in 1892. There his remaining days were passed, his death occurring in 1901, when he was seventy-five years of age. His wife survived him for about five years and passed away in February, 1906, at the age of seventyfive years. They were members of the Methodist Episcopal church and were loyal to the teachings of that denomination. Mr. Weinrich served as a school director while living on the farm but was never ambitious to seek or hold office. In the family were six sons and four daughters: Emma, now the wife of G. C. Zimmerman ; Clara, deceased ; Christina ; Fred W. ; William ; Matilda, the wife of Matthew O'Connell ; Edward C. ; George ; Charles, who is deceased ; and Herman.

Edward C. Weinrich was reared as a farm boy and in his youthful days attended the district school. He lived with his parents until he reached adult age, and then he started out in life for himself by working as a farm hand by the month. He and his brother George afterward cultivated the father's farm until his death, at which time Edward, George and Herman Weinrich purchased the old homestead, which they still own and cultivate together. They are well known as representative farmers and active business men in this locality. In addition to their farming interests Fred, Edward and George conduct a large breeding barn in Geneseo and own a number of registered Percheron and standard bred trotters. They are doing business on an extensive scale, being known as among the leading breeders of this part of the state. They also own a Dan Patch colt on the farm. Their trotters all have good records and have been sired by some of the most celebrated horses in the country.

Fred Weinrich married Otilla Barts. He owns and cultivates a farm of one hundred and twenty acres in Munson township and raises high-grade chickens in addition to his interests in the horse breeding business. Of the other brothers, William married Agnes Winters and George Married Anna Glowe, while Edward C. and Herman are still single. The brothers are representative business men, who carefully watch the indications pointing to success and so conduct their interests as to secure good financial results. The family has been represented in the county for a long period for the father was one of the early settlers.

William Weimer

Pleasantly situated in Geneseo, living in one of the attractive homes of the city, is William Weimer, a retired farmer whose life history is a notable example of what may be accomplished through determination and energy. Though he started out in life empty-handed, when sixteen years of age and comparatively without educational advantages, he has become one of the extensive landowners of this part of the state, placing his money in that safest of all investments - real estate. He was bom in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, May 29, 1837, his parents being Jonathan and Susan (Berger) Weimer, who were natives of Pennsylvania. Their family numbered eleven children, three sons and eight daughters, but only two are now living, Israel Weimer, of Geneseo, being the younger brother of our subject. The father made farming his life work, and believing that the great prairie district of the Mississippi valley offered better opportunities than could be secured in the east, he came to Illinois in the fall of 1853, settling in Henry county. Here he died a few years later at the age of seventyeight. His wife survived him for twelve years and passed away when about seventy-seven years of age. In the east they were members of the Dunkard's society.

William Weimer spent the first sixteen years of his life in the Keystone state, where he was reared to the work of the farm. Owing to the limited financial resources of his parents he was deprived of educational privileges, as it was necessary that he assist in the work of the fields. As a youth he was industrious and thoughtful, and these qualities have characterized his entire life. With his parents he came to Illinois and lived at home until he had attained his majority, when he started out upon an independent business career working by the month as a farm hand for four years. He decided, however, that his labors should more directly benefit himself, and for a year thereafter he engaged in the cultivation of a rented farm. He bought seed wheat and a team of horses and sowed forty acres of wheat, also thirty acres to oats, but it was a wet season, and he lost his crop and became in debt. He then had to work two years by the month to discharge his financial obligations, but he did not allow this experience to discourage him, knowing that determination and energy will in time overcome all difficulties and obstacles.

Soon afterward Mr. Weimer was married and started out in business life anew. He was fortunate in his choice of a wife, for she proved a most faithful companion and helpmate to him on life's journey. After a time he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land in Geneseo township, which was wild and unimproved. He built a house thereon and began the development of his fields, making his home on that farm from 1861 until 1890. He added to that until he owned seven hundred acres, a part of which he has since sold, but from time to time he has invested in land in Kansas in partnership with his son until they have between eleven thousand and twelve thousand acres in the Sunflower state, and also nine sections of land in Colorado. He has achieved this by carefully watching expenses and by utilizing every advantage. He has watched for opportunities for good investments and has wisely placed his money so that he derives therefrom a substantial income at the present time.

On the 6th of October, 1862, Mr. Weimer was married to Miss Susan Keller, a daughter of David and Catharine (Arnett) Keller. They became parents of eight children : Emma C, the eldest, married Winfield Cressner and resides on the old Weimer homestead, and they have five children : Earl, Edith, Elvin, Esther, and Huen. W. Albert, of Geneseo, married Ella Tilford, and they have five children: Harry, Harley, Frank, Eva and Iva. Minnie is the wife of John De Linn, and they had four children, of whom three are now living: William, Glen and Don. Edith is the wife of William Hippler, of Geneseo, and they have three children : Mabel, Irene and Claude. Frank died when sixteen years old. Bertie is the wife of L. K. Thompson, a resident of Bismarck, North Dakota. Susan is the wife of Edward Coe, who is living in Los Angeles, California, and they have two sons : Reuben and Rowland. The youngest child of the family died in infancy. The mother, Mrs. Susan Weimer, died August 12, 1880, when about thirty-six years of age. Mr. Weimer afterward wedded Miss Paulina Stenzel, a daughter of John and Augusta (Hollaz) Stenzel, and they have two children : Jesse and Nellie.

In 1890 Mr. Weimer removed to Geneseo and built a beautiful home on North State street, where he still resides. He has also erected another fine residence in the city. Politically he is a democrat and has served as school director and road commissioner. He has never been a politician in the sense of office seeking, however, but has been preeminently a man of affairs and one who has wielded a wide influence. He is numbered among the old settlers of the county and has lived to witness notable changes since he arrived here about fifty-five years ago. Within this period practically all of the land has been brought under cultivation, the wild prairies being transformed into rich fields, while here and there flourishing towns have been built, and all the advantages known to the older east have been introduced. The present home of Mr. Weimer is in great contrast to that in which he began his domestic life. He was for a time in extreme poverty owing to the failure of crops, which threw him in debt and left him to start out anew. Brooking no obstacle that could be overcome by persistent and earnest effort, he has worked his way steadily upward, and the splendid record which he has made is one well worthy of emulation, for he is now numbered with the men of affluence in Henry county, and is one of the most extensive landowners of this part of the state.

Howard A. Deming

Nature seems to have intended that man shall enjoy a season of rest in the evening of life, for in youth one's energies and ambition are tuned to a high pitch. In mature years these qualities are guided by sound judgment, which makes enterprise effective and labor a forceful factor in the attainment of success. Thus when the years are wisely used it is possible to retire in later life and enjoy a rest which has been truly earned and is richly merited. Such has been the record of Mr. Deming, who diligently pursued farm work for many years but is now living retired in Geneseo. He was born in Brunswick, Medina county, Ohio, September 25, 1837, and is a son of Charles R. and EHza P. (Alden) Deming, who were natives of Massachusetts and Connecticut respectively. The former was a son of Andrew Deming, who was also born in the old Bay state. His ancestors, however, came from England in 1635 and planted the family on American soil. Andrew Deming was a farmer by occupation and in 1816 removed from New England to Ohio, settling in Medina county, where he resided until 1840, when he took up his abode near Ashland, Ohio, where he died at the age of sixty-six years. He was always known as Major Deming. He married Elizabeth Mather, and they reared a large family. The maternal grandfather of Howard A. Deming was Howard Alden, a native of New England, who became a physician of Suffield. He died there October 17, 1841 - on the eighty-first anniversary of his birth. His wife was Rhoda Williston, who was born January 10, 1768, and died November 7, 1863. The father of Howard Alden was Jonathan Alden, who served for a brief period in the Revolutionary war. The ancestry of the family is directly traceable to John and Priscilla Alden, whose romantic story constitutes the basis of Longfellow's poem, "The Courtship of Miles Standish."

Charles R. Deming accompanied his parents on their removal to Ohio when fifteen years of age and became a merchant of that state. He went from Brunswick to Ashland, Ohio, at the age of eighteen and in the latter city engaged in clerking for a time. He afterward went to Orange, Ohio, where he established a dry-goods business on his own account, remaining there for several years. Subsequently he returned to Ashland, where he carried on general merchandising for fifteen years and at the same time handled lumber and wool. About 1849 he made a trip to Ilhnois and purchased land in Henry county but continued to engage in the wool business in Ohio for some years thereafter. In 1865 he took up his abode in Henry county, Illinois, and from that time until his death was associated with the business and public interests in this part of the state. He had entered land from the government in Atkinson and Geneseo township and also secured other tracts through land warrants granted for service in the war of 1812. Altogether he entered about two thousand acres, some of it for other parties. He lived in Geneseo until 1881 and then went to make his home with his son Howard on the farm. He was not only extensively engaged in business as a landowner and dealer but was also very prominent in community affairs, aiding in establisihng the destiny and molding the poHcy of this part of the state. For two terms he represented his district in Ohio in the state legislature. His death occurred in 1903, when he was in his ninety-ninth year, while his wife passed away June 23, 1881, at the age of seventy-eight years. In early life she was a Presbyterian in religious faith but after removing to Henry county united with the Congregational church. They were the parents of three sons and two daughters: William A., deceased; Susan, the widow of Isaiah Goodfellow, of Geneseo; Howard A., of this review; and Hattie E., the wife of F. A. Trauger, a resident of Geneseo. The first born, Newton, died at the age of two years.

Howard A. Deming resided in Ohio to the age of sixteen years, his home being in Ashland during the last thirteen years of that time. He came to Geneseo in 1854. He brought with him some horses sent by his father, and he and his uncle, Richard Deming, conducted a livery stable together for a year. He then returned to Ohio, while his uncle continued the business for several years thereafter. In 1856 Howard Deming again came to Geneseo but after a few weeks went to Winona, Minnesota, where he remained for eight months, and then again went to Ohio. In 1859 he was married in Ashland county, Ohio, and the same year returned with his bride to Henry county, building a home in Geneseo, which he kept until April i, 1865. He then removed to his farm in Geneseo township, five miles northeast of the city, owning there four hundred and eighty acres of land. He improved the property, bringing his fields under a high state of cultivation and adding all of the accessories and equipments of a model farm. Year by year he carefully carried on his work with the result that he achieved prosperity, and he remained upon the farm until November 4, 1896, when he took up his abode in Geneseo. He still owns two hundred and forty acres of land, and in the town he has a beautiful residence, which he erected in 1896, at the corner of Mechanic and Pearl streets.

It was on the 25th of October, 1859, t^at the marriage of Mr. Deming and Miss Celesta Willard was celebrated, so that they have now traveled life's journey together for a half century. She was born in Conneaut, Ohio, May 6, 1841, a daughter of Luman and Emily (Bacon) Willard, both of whom were natives of New York. Her paternal grandparents were Asa and Sarah Willard of Vermont, while her maternal grandparents were James and Comfort (Eastman) Bacon, who were born near Hartford, Connecticut. Mr. and Mrs. Deming have two sons and a daughter. Edward, an artist living in New York, married Theresa Osterheld, and they have four children, Alden O., Catherine, Henrietta Hall and John Willard. Gail E., a lawyer living in Chicago, married Harriet Barrett; Grace, the youngest of the family, is at home. The parents are members of the

Congregational church, and Mr. Deming belongs to Stewart Lodge, No. 92, A. F. & A. M. His political support is given to the republican party, but the honors and emoluments of office have never had attraction for him, as he has always preferred to concentrate his energies upon his business affairs and in the careful direction of his farming interests has met with success.

Seymour S. Thomas

Seymour S. Thomas, an honored veteran of the Civil war, has been a resident of Cambridge since 1886 and is now living retired. His birth occurred in Chillicothe, Peoria county, Illinois, on the 23d of March, 1847, his parents being Thomas and Isabel (Norris) Thomas, both of whom were born in Ohio. The paternal grandfather, Thomas Thomas, was a native of Virginia and a farmer by occupation. Leaving the Old Dominion, he located near Zanesville, Ohio, and afterward became one of the early settlers of Peoria, Illinois, erecting one of the first brick buildings in that city. He was successfully engaged in the conduct of a grocery and dry-goods store at Peoria until he passed away at an old age. He was twice married, and his first wife, Mrs. Isabel Thomas, was the grandmother of our subject. His second wife, Mrs. Jane Thomas, was a native of Ireland and lived to a ripe old age. Thomas Thomas had a family of seven children, namely: Daniel, Stephen, John, Thomas, Alexander, Jane and Cynthia. The maternal grandfather of Seymour S. Thomas died in Virginia.

Thomas Thomas, the father of Mr. Thomas of this review, followed mer-r chandising throughout his active business career. He became an early settler of Peoria and later took up his abode in Chillicothe, Illinois, where he conducted a grocery store. His demise there occurred in 1866 when he was about fifty-five years of age. For a short time he had loyally defended the interests of the Union as a soldier in the Civil war. Both he and his wife were devoted and consistent members of the Baptist church, and the latter was called to her final rest in 1854 at the age of thirty-five years. Unto them were born five children, three sons and two daughters, as follows: Isaac deceased; Seymour S., of this review ; James K., a resident of Chillicothe ; Sarah Jane, who has also passed away; and Asenith, the wife of Levi Thorndyke, of Nebraska.

Seymour S. Thomas was reared in the place of his nativity and there received his early education in the common schools. After putting aside his text-books he lived with a man named John Gates until the outbreak of the Civil war, when he enlisted for three years' service as a member of Company H, Fifty-third Illinois Volunteer Infantry. In 1864 he reenlisted in the same company and regiment and later was transferred to the United States Military Secret Service, Department of the West, with which he remained until the close of hostilities. He was wounded at the battle of Jackson, Mississippi, and subsequently lost his right eye while on picket duty in the campaign from Black River to Meridian, Mississippi, the vision of his other eye being also impaired. In that campaign he was also struck in the shoulder with a bullet. Only sixty-six out of the entire regiment escaped, the rest being killed, wounded or taken prisoner. Mr. Thomas fought in many of the important battles of the war, including those at Shiloh, Pittsburg Landing, Corinth and the siege of Vicksburg and likewise took part in innumerable skirmishes. When he enlisted at the age of fifteen years he entered the ranks of a private, later became corporal and then sergeant and when he was transferred to the secret service was made first lieutenant. When the country no longer needed his aid he returned to Chillicothe, where he was married and worked at the blacksmith's trade for a time. The year 1886 witnessed his arrival in Cambridge, Henry county, and here he followed various pursuits until 1904, when he became totally blind and has since lived retired. He receives a good pension from the government and is widely recognized as one of the substantial and respected citizens of the community.

On the 27th of October, 1870, Mr. Thomas was united in marriage to Miss Marilla Seely, a native of South Hampton, Peoria county, Illinois, and a daughter of William and Adelia (Stackhouse) Seely, who were born in Vermont but became pioneer settlers of Peoria county, this state. The father, who was a farmer by occupation, later removed to Chillicothe, where he died in 1873 ^t the age of sixty-three years. His wife subsequently came to Cambridge, here passing away in 1885, when in the seventy-ninth year of her age. Their family numbered six children, namely: Almira, the wife of William Blossom; Emma, the wife of A. H. Ramy; Mrs. Thomas; Mary, the wife of Henry Ridenour; Ida May, who gave her hand in marriage to George Beresford ; and Lilly L., who is the wife of H. A. Lukens. Benjamin Stackhouse, the maternal grandfather of Mrs. Thomas, was a native of Vermont and became a resident of the state of Pennsylvania, where he following farming as a means of livelihood. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Thomas were born two children. The eldest, Minnie A., who passed away in 1908, was the wife of Robert L. Boyd, by whom she had a daughter, Mildred Evelyn Boyd. M. Louise Thomas is employed in a store at Princeton, Illinois.

Mr. Thomas gives his political allegiance to the men and measures of the republican party and for six or eight years capably discharged the duties devolving upon him as postmaster at Nebraska, Illinois. He was made a Mason in Mississippi during the Civil war and also belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America and Cambridge Post, G. A. R. His wife is a faithful member of the Methodist church, in the work of which she is deeply and helpfully interested. In every relation of life he has manifested those sterling traits of character which in every land and clime command confidence and awaken regard and is therefore well worthy the esteem which is uniformly accorded him.

Bernard Kirley

Bernard Kirley who during the years of an active business life was a prominent factor in the development of mining interests and real estate operations in Henry county, owed his success entirely to his own efforts. He came to this county without a dollar and died the possessor of thousands. His record of intelligently directed labors and carefully formulated plans constituted an example that is indeed worthy of emulation. He was born in Ireland, March lo, 1838, acquiring his education in the schools of that country, and came to America at the age of eighteen years. He at once made his way to Kewanee where he arrived on the 30th of June, 1856. Here he sought and obtained employment as a miner, but laudable ambition prompted him to seek the opportunites of engaging in business for himself and after two years he began mining coal on his own account. He then operated mines in this part of the state for over twenty years. He made a great deal of money and by careful investments secured a position among the most substantial citizens of Kewanee. At the time of his death he had accumulated considerable property and was a director of the Kewanee National bank.

On the 8th of February, 1867, Mr. Kirley was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Moore, a native of Long Island, New York, and a daughter of William and Catherine Moore, who arrived in Kewanee in 1857. Shortly after his arrival he established his home on a farm and now resides in Kewanee township, having been for many years one of the leading and honored agriculturists of the community. He has reached the venerable age of eighty-seven years, while his wife is eighty-four years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Kirley have become the parents of seven children, namely: Kathryn, at home; William H., who is conducting a billiard hall in Kewanee; Philip J., engaged in the coal business; Mary and Elizabeth at home; and Bernard and John, who are proprietors of a cigar store.

During the early years of his residence here Mr. Kirley served as a member of the city council and his duties as alderman were discharged in a prompt and progressive manner. He was a Catholic in religious faith and from the inception of the church here was one of its most liberal and generous supporters. In all of his business dealings he was thoroughly reliable and enterprising, his success being the direct outcome of persistent and earnest labor and careful investment. He died July 17, 1902, and the county mourned the loss of one of its valued and representative citizens who resided within its borders for forty-six years. He left to his family not only a handsome competency as the result of his business activity but also the priceless heritage of an untarnished name.

John N. Penwell

John N. Penwell, who was formerly identified with farming interests and is now devoting his attention to horticultural pursuits in Geneseo, was born in Elkhart, Indiana, March 20, 1838. He is a son of David and Mary L. (Crook) Penwell, both of whom were natives of Erie county, New York. The former was of English lineage, his father having been a native of England, whence he came to America, settling in Erie county. He was a farmer by occupation and spent his last days in Washington, Kansas. The maternal grandfather of Mr. Penwell was Asa Crook and he, too, was a native of England and established his home in Erie county, New York, when he came to the new world. He afterward cast in his lot with the early settlers of Whiteside county, Illinois, and for a number of years conducted a hotel at Prophetstown. Later he removed to

Henry county and engaged in farming in Loraine township. He died when well advanced in years as did his wife, who spent her last days in Atkinson township. They had a large family but only two are now living: Mrs. Cynthia Brown, of Iowa; and Mrs. Laura Matson, who makes her home with her children in Iowa.

David Penwell was reared to farm life and chose that occupation as a source of livelihood when he attained his majority. At an early day he removed to South Bend, Indiana, and afterward went to Iowa, where he died of typhoid fever, when about thirty-two years of age. There were three children granted to him and his wife, but two died in early live, leaving John N. Penwell as the only survivor. The mother married again, becoming the wife of Andrew Thompson Bracken, by whom she had five children, two of wnom survive: James L., a banker of Tama City, Iowa; and A. J., of Prophetstown, Illinois.

John N. Penwell was taken to Iowa by his mother 'when only about a year old. He was a little child of three years when she married again in Prophetstown, Illinois, and he was reared to manhood on a farm in Whiteside county. On the 15th of June, 1861, in response to President Lincoln's first call for seventy-five thousand volunteers, he enlisted in Company D, First Regiment of Nebraska Volunteers, under command of Captain J. C. Potts. He served for two and a half years with the infantry forces and then became a cavalryman, being mustered out as such. He served altogether for three years and three months and was a non-commissioned officer until sent to the St. Louis Hospital because of illness. He took part in thirty-six battles and skirmishes, including the battles of Fort Donelson, Shiloh, the siege of Corinth, luka and Cape Girardeau and was also in the ninety-five mile race after the rebel General Price in Arkansas and Texas. He was one of the seven color bearers at Shiloh, where five of the number were killed. When the war was over Mr. Penwell returned to Whiteside county, Illinois, and for two years was in poor health as the result of the rigors and hardships of war. He was then married and turned his attention to farming which he followed in Atkinson township, Henry county, for twenty-four years, having eighty acres of land, which he brought under a high state of cultivation. About 1890 he sold that farm and removed to Geneseo, where he has since made his home. He owns a good residence on South Mechanic street and, as indolence and idleness are utterly foreign to his nature, he devotes his attention to the raising of fine fruit.

On the i6th of June, 1867, Mr. Penwell was united in marriage to Miss Hortense Frances Fones, at Atkinson, Henry county, the ceremony being performed by the Rev. M. R. Odell. Mrs. Penwell was born in Atkinson township and is a daughter of Harry and Sara A. (Mitchell) Fones. By her marriage she has become the mother of two children. Fred B., the elder, was a fine scholar both in English and German. He was born in Geneseo, January 28, 1871, and died October 5, 1895. Harriet G., who was born July 2, 1876, was married November 12, 1895, to George H. Reig and died October 9, 1907. She left four children, a son and three daughters : Fred Leslie, Grace May, Laura and Maude Lorena. ,

Mr. Penwell belongs to the Congregational church, while his wife is a member of the Christian church. His political allegiance is given to the republican party, and he served for one term as road commissioner. Fraternally he is connected with Stewart Lodge, No. 92, A. F. & A. M., and belongs also to Jenkins Post, G. A. R. Throughout his entire life he has been as loyal to his duties of citizenship, as when he followed the old flag on southern battlefields and thus defended the Union cause.

John H. Peterson

John H. Peterson was but a boy when his father's family came to the colony of Bishop Hill, but he had some insight into the struggles that confronted those sturdy men and women, and throughout the period of his early manhood had to toil himself that he might raise the debt with which his land was burdened when the colony was incorporated into a village. The task that was set before him was accomplished through the application of determination united with unremitting industry, and now after having won a generous return from his labors, he has retired to enjoy the rest he so well deserves. The work of the farm, which is upon the outskirts of Bishop Hill, he has passed on to others, but he still makes his home in the house which holds many associations as the result of his own efforts to acquire it. He was born in Westmanland, Sweden, May 6, 1842. His father, Peter Ericson, who was a farmer, came to the United States in 1854 and joined the colony of Bishop Hill, with which he remained for about seven years. A man endowed with gigantic strength, he spent the greater part of his life working in the timber, and upon the dissolution of the colony received sixty-six acres in Galva township, to which he removed in 1861. At that time he was very poor, owing a debt to the colony more than twice the value of his farm, but he was not discouraged and set himself to accomplish the seemingly impossible and until his death, which occurred in his seventy-fifth year, he devoted himself assiduously to the cultivation of the soil.

John H. Peterson was not quite eighteen years of age when his father left the colony, and with a man's realization of the work that lay before him he called into play all his powers, his industry, his ambition and his determination to win success and a fair name from the cultivation of a farm heavily encumbered by debt. On his father's land he lived until 1897, having in the meantime not only cleared its title but also added twenty-nine acres to its area and made a number of valuable improvements which were a credit to his ability and foresight. In 1895 he bought a tract of one hundred and forty acres west of the village of Bishop Hill, to which he removed two years later, leasing the home farm at that time. As for crops, he has raised corn and oats principally, and has also engaged somewhat in the stock business, raising annually from twenty to twenty-five head of cattle and from forty to sixty-five hogs, making a specialty of breeding Normandy hogs. Three years ago he retired from the active life and rents this farm, in addition to the old home one, with the exception of the house, barns and pasture, which he has retained for his own

In Andover township, July lo, 1874, Mr. Peterson was united in marriage to Miss Johanna Johnson, a daughter of Nels Johnson, a farmer of Andover township. Four daughters were born to the couple': Emma, who is the wife of Ed Edson, a farmer of Osco township ; and Julia, Esther and May, who are at home. On the 17th of September, 1906, Mrs. Peterson was released from the trials of this world. She was always a devout member of the Swedish Methodist Episcopal church, being very active in its work, and her life was brought to the close with the knowledge that as a Christian woman she was entitled to all the consolations which her faith was able to afford to those who had lived in obedience to its tenets.

Mr. Peterson has ever been a stanch adherent of the principles of the republican party, evincing a deep interest in local affairs. For three years he served as school director, and was overseer of the highways while that office was elective. He belongs to the Old Settlers Association and few among its members have a greater right to claim affiliation with it, for he knew the struggles and hardships of early days, and the success of his later years entitles him to the proud distinction of being numbered among the self-made men of this republic.

Thomas H. Johnston

Thomas H. Johnston, the president of the Johnston Lumber Company, was born in Henry county, Illinois, on the 25th of December, 1865, his parents being John and Lucy M. (Selon) Johnston, the former a native of County Londonderry, Ireland, and the latter of Stark county, Illinois. In 1854 the father came from Connecticut to Illinois, taking up his abode in this county, where he was successfully identified with general agricultural pursuits throughout the remainder of his life. His death occurred in 1889 and was the occasion of deep and widespread regret, for he had gained an extensive circle of friends during the long period of his residence here.

Thomas H. Johnston supplemented his preliminary education, obtained in the public schools of this county, by a course of study in the Galva high school and the Davenport Business College, being graduated from the latter institution with the class of 1887. He continued to reside on the home farm until 1892, when as a young man of twenty-six years he went upon the road as a traveling salesman, being connected with two different firms. Subsequently he became identified with the banking establishment of L. M .Yocum & Company, at Galva, where he remained until elected to the office of county treasurer in 1898. On the expiration of his term, in 1902, he took up his abode in Toulon, Stark county, where he organized the Johnston Lumber Company, conducting yards at Toulon, Annawan, Rock Falls and Campgrove. He made his home at Toulon until 1906, when he came to Kewanee and has here since continued to reside. In 1905 he purchased the Whiff en Lumber Yard, now known as the Johnston Lumber Company, establishing the headquarters of the firm at Kewanee, from which point the other yards are managed. They deal in all kinds of building materials, and the trade is constantly growing, their liberal patronage now bringing to them a gratifying financial return. Mr. Johnston is likewise a stockholder in the State Bank of Toulon and is widely recognized as one of the most substantial, enterprising and representative citizens of the community.

On the 31st of October, 1895, Mr. Johnston was united in marriage to Miss Susie E. Calhoun, a daughter of Andrew Calhoun, of Henry county. They now have two children, Mary Janet and William C.

In his political views Mr. Johnston is a stalwart republican and on that ticket was elected to the position of county treasurer in 1898, discharging his official duties in a most efficient and highly satisfactory manner. He is a valued member of the Kewanee Club and the Commercial Club and served as president of the latter in 1908. Fraternally he is identified with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Modern Woodmen of America and the Court of Honor, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Methodist Episcopal church. His Hfe is exemplary in all respects and he has ever supported those interests which are calculated to uplift and benefit humanity by his own high moral worth. What he undertakes, he accomplishes, for he possesses resolution, perseverance and reliability, and these qualities have caused him to be enrolled among the best citizens of his native county.

Alexander Walker

Alexander Walker occupies a fine brick residence which stands in the midst of five acres of ground at the north end of State street, just outside the corporation limits of Geneseo. He has long been identified with agricultural interests and is still the owner of a valuable farm of two hundred and forty acres in Henry county. He was born in the old town of Aberdeenshire, Scotland, December 28, 183 1, his parents being James and Ellen (Stewart) Walker, who were also natives of the land of hills and heather. The father was a farmer of Scotland, where he died about 1845, while his wife passed away in 1842 in the faith of the Presbyterian church, of which they were both members. They were parents of seven children, six sons and a daughter, of whom four are now living : Alexander ; William, whose home is in Munson township; Ellen, the widow of James Richmond, of Orient, Iowa; and George, of Geneseo.

In the common schools of Scotland Alexander Walker pursued his education, while spending his youthful days upon the home farm. At the age of fifteen years, however, he began earning his own livelihood by working as a farm hand, and in 1856 he sought the opportunites and privileges of the new world. Here in connection with his brothers, John, James and William, he took contract work in ditching the swamp land in the western part of Indiana. He also did ditching for farmers, and at an early day the brothers came to Henry county but afterward returned to Indiana. A year later, however, they once more came to this county, and Alexander Walker soon resided within its borders. On their return the brothers rented land of P. P. Allan for three years and then began buying land. Mr. Walker, of this review, purchased eighty acres in

Cornwall township which was partially improved and upon that place resided for twenty years. He also bought one hundred and sixty acres south of the county house but sold it five years later and made purchase of a quarter section in Cambridge township. About the same time he removed to Geneseo, purchasing the attractive home and grounds which he now occupies at the north end of State street. His realty holdings, aside from his residence, comprise two hundred and forty acres, and from this property he derives a good annual income, for it is carefully cultivated under his supervision.

Mr. Walker was united in marriage to Miss Susan Seeds, who was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Alay 3, 1838, her parents being Simon and Eliza (Orr) Seeds, both of whom were natives of County Down, Ireland. The latter was a daughter of Matthew Orr, but died in County Down, when well advanced in years. He married a Miss Ellison and followed farming as a life work. Mr. and Mrs. Seeds were reared and educated on the Emerald isle, and for a time the former served as a member of the Enghsh army. On coming to America they spent a few years in Philadelphia and afterward removed to Maryland, where they remained until their children were grown. They then returned to Philadelphia where they continued to reside until called to their final rest, t\\h father dying at the age of eighty years and mother when seventy-six years of age. They were both members of the Episcopalian church and they had a family of six children, but only two are now living: John A. Seeds, of Philadelphia; and Mrs. Walker. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Walker have been born two daughters, Helen and Mary, but the latter died in infancy. The former is the wife of James E. Ogden. They reside with Mr. and Mrs. Walker and have four children : Stewart, James C, Florence and John. The parents are members of the Presbyterian church, in which Mr. Walker served as elder for many years. His political allegiance is given to the republican party. He has now reached the seventy-eighth milestone on life's journey, and the record which he has made is one which has classed him with the leading citizens and representative men of Henry county. He has lived here for almost a half century, and the respect and veneration which are given him are the result of a well spent life.

William Edward Gould

William Edward Gould, whose life work has been an influencing factor in financial circles in Kewanee and in this part of the state, while his sound judgment proves an excellent guide for the conduct of important business interests, was born in Cairo, Illinois, December 6, 1867, his parents being George and Anna (Clitherow) Gould. The father was a fruit grower, conducting a good business along horticultural lines.

William E. Gould enjoyed the advantages of instruction in Oberlin College, after mastering the elementary branches of learning in the public schools, and in his youthful days became his father's assistant, which brought him practical business experience and gave him an insight into commercial and financial problems that has enabled him successfully to manage complex interests at a later day. He first became identified with banking at Toulon as a member of the firm of Dewey, Burge & Gould, on the ist of May, 1896, and there remained until April, 1902. For the past seven years he has been connected with the Savings Bank of Kewanee, of which he became one of the organizers, and at the same time he retains his interest in the bank at Toulon. Seeing opportunity for further investment in business interests that promised profitably he became a partner in the Kewanee Ice & Fuel Company, and also aided in the organization of the Fischer Lumber Company of Kewanee, Missouri, of which he is the secretary and treasurer.

On the I St of January, 1902, Mr. Gould was united in marriage to Miss Harriet Bates, of Kewanee, Illinois, a daughter of M. C. and Emma (Latimer) Bates, who are farming people of Knox county. Mr. and Mrs. Gould have one child, Harriet Barodel. The parents are well known socially in the city, the hospitality of the best homes of Kewanee being freely accorded them. Mr. Gould belongs to the Masonic fraternity and the Odd Fellows lodge, and his religious belief is evidenced in his membership in the First Congregational church. While he is preeminently a business man he does not allow commercial and financial interests to monopolize his time to the exclusion of other affairs of vital moment, but on the contrary gives his cooperation to various measures and projects for the public good.

Curtis C. Martin

On the roster of town and county officials appears the name of Curtis C. Martin, who is now filUng the position of county surveyor and superintendent of streets and town assessor. He makes his home in Geneseo, his native city, his birth having there occurred December 28, i860. His paternal grandfather, Samuel W. Martin, was a native of the state of New York and in 1872 became a resident of Geneseo, where he lived retired, his time and energies having previously been devoted to general farming. He was more than eighty years of age at the time of his demise and his wife had also reached a ripe old age when called to her final rest. Their son Charles H. Martin was a native of New York and in early life removed to Geneseo, where for some years he was engaged in the implement business. He also acted as constable for many years, and was assessor of Geneseo township for nine years. He married Miss Margaret A. Dillehay, a native of Ohio, who still survives him. He died January 15, 1902, at the age of seventy years and is still survived by his widow. They were both liberal in religious belief.

Curtis C. Martin was reared in Geneseo and attended the public and high schools of the city. He learned the trade of lettering in marble and granite and devoted considerable time to that work for a number of years. He then turned his attention to civil engineering and surveying and studied higher mathematics to perfect himself in the work. He still continues in that line, his services being in demand not only in a private capacity but also as county surveyor, superintendent of streets and town assessor. For several years he was in the tombstone business on his own account and later he engaged in cement contract work. He has always led a busy life and whatever success he has attained is attributable entirely to his own labors. In connection with civil engineering and surveying he also has agricultural interests, for he is the owner of a farm of one hundred and sixty acres in Rock county, Minnesota.

In 1884 Mr. Martin was united in marriage to Miss Nellie Myhill, a daughter of Samuel and Mary (Whitcomb) Myhill. They had one child, Allan Doane. The wife and mother died in 1894 and her death was deeply deplored by many friends. Her parents came from Vermont to Henry county at an early day, settling in Munson township, where her father followed the occupation of farming. He died in Geneseo in middle life but his widow is still living. In 1896 Mr. Martin was again married, his second union being with Miss Harriet Whitcomb, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Whitcomb. Both Mr. and Mrs. Martin are liberal in religious matters.

He is a prominent Mason, belonging to Stewart Lodge, No. 92, A. F, & A. M.; Geneseo Chapter, No. 12, R. A. M.; Rock Island Commandery, No. 18, K. T. ; and Kaaba Temple of the Mystic Shrine at Davenport. He is likewise affiliated with Geneseo Camp, No. 40, M. W. A., which he joined on its organization. He and his wife belong to the Eastern Star and he holds membership with the Yeomen of America. His political endorsement is given to the republican party and he keeps well informed on the questions and issues of the day. He has worked diligently to attain the success which is now his, has carefully qualified for the work in which he is engaged and is making an excellent record in the official positions that he is filling.

William Anderson

William Anderson is the owner of a highly improved and productive farm of one hundred and sixty acres on section 30, Cambridge township. He was born in Knox county, Illinois, on the 27th of January, 1854, his parents being Eric and Anna (Peterson) Anderson, who were natives of Sweden. The paternal grandfather, Andrew Anderson, who was a farmer by occupation, died in Sweden when well advanced in years. Unto him and his wife were born seven children. The maternal grandfather of our subject, John Peterson, who was likewise an agriculturist by occupation, died in Sweden at a ripe old age.

Eric Anderson, the father of William Anderson, crossed the Atlantic to the United States in 1852, in company with his wife, and took up his abode in Knox county, Illinois, where he engaged in farming. His wife passed away there in 1854 and eleven years later, in 1865, he came to Henry county. In 1872 he purchased the farm of one hundred and sixty acres on which his son William now resides and was successfully engaged in its cultivation until he was called to his final rest. The period of his residence in this county covered a third of a century and he became widely recognized as a most substantial, enterprising and progressive citizen. His demise occurred in 1899, when he had attained the age of sixty-nine years.

William Anderson, whose name initiates this review, was reared on his father's farm in Knox county and attended the district schools in the acquirement of an education. He lived with his father until the latter's death, when he came into possession of the old homestead farm in Cambridge township, which originally comprised eighty acres but now embraces a quarter section. In the conduct of his agricultural interests he has won a most gratifying and well merited measure of success, for he cultivates the soil in accordance with modern methods of farming and uses the latest improved machinery to facilitate the work of the fields.

On the 28th of November, 1888, Mr. Anderson was united in marriage to Miss Anna Wexell, who was born at Bishop Hill, this county, her parents being Peter and Martha (Peterson) Wexell, natives of Sweden. They came to the United States in 1846 and cast in their lot with the Bishop Hill colony, living there during the entire period of its existence. Peter Wexell had the honor of making the first dugout at Bishop Hill. About the year i860 the colonists divided their property, and subsequently, about 1869, Mr. Wexell purchased a farm of two hundred acres northwest of Bishop Hill. He passed away there in 1885 at the age of sixty-eight years. The death of his wife occurred in Cambridge in 1897, when she had attained the age of seventy-eight years. They had three children who lived to maturity, namely: Martha, who is now deceased; Mrs. Anderson; and Caroline, the widow of John P. Gunnerson. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Anderson has been born a daughter, Selma Evalina Minerva Anderson.

Where national questions and issues are involved Mr. Anderson gives his political allegiance to the republican party but at local elections casts an independent ballot, supporting the candidate whom he believes best qualified for office. His wife and daughter are devoted and consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Having resided in this part of the state throughout his entire life, covering a period of fifty-five years, he is well and favorably known here, and is widely recognized as a prosperous and progressive business man as well as an upright and honorable citizen.

Fred Fausset

Fred Fausset, who for the past three years has been operating the Hugh Hutchinson farm of two hundred and ninety-three acres on section 12, Cambridge township, also devotes his attention to the' buying and shipping of horses and cattle on a large scale. He was born in Hendricks county, Indiana, on the 19th of February, 1879, ^is parents being Wilson and Lucy (Rutledge) Fausset, likewise natives of the Hoosier state. The paternal grandfather, Isaac Fausset, who was also born in Indiana, followed farming in Hendricks county, that state, and there passed away when about sixty years of age. His wife, Mrs. Unity Fausset, was about seventy-eight or seventy-nine years old when called to her final rest. Their children were three in number: Wilson, Ada and Anna. John Rutledge, the maternal grandfather of our subject, was a native of Kentucky and a farmer by occupation. He loyally defended the interests of the Union as a soldier in the Civil war. In early manhood he wedded Miss Millie Bradley and they subsequently took up their abode in Hendricks county, Indiana, where they lived throughout the remainder of their lives. John Rutledge passed away when about fifty-seven years of age, and his wife had attained the age of almost eighty when her demise occurred. They reared a family of seven children, namely: John, Henry, Lucy, Nan, Susan, Mary and Sarah.

Wilson Fausset, the father of Fred Fausset, was reared in Hendricks county, Indiana, and followed general agricultural pursuits throughout his active business career. He is now living retired in Garden City, Kansas. Unto him and his wife were born two children, as follows : Fred, of this review ; and Ivy, the wife of John H. Miller, of Wellsford, Kansas.

Fred Fausset, who was reared on the home farm in Hendricks county, Indiana, arrived in Henry county, Illinois, on the 26. of April, 1899. He first worked on the canal for a time and then secured employment by the month as a farm hand, being thus engaged for two years. On the expiration of that period he rented a tract of land near Atkinson and subsequently farmed a place in Cornwall township for a year, while later he operated the farm of George Lower for two years. For the past three years, however, he has given his attention to the cultivation of a farm of two hundred and ninety-three acres on section 12, Cambridge township, belonging to Hugh Hutchinson. In addition to his work as an agriculturist he also buys and ships horses and cattle on a large scale and has met with well merited success in his undertakings. In 1909 he shipped over three thousand dollars' worth of hogs of his own raising, and each season he handles cattle and horses to the value of about twenty thousand dollars. When he came to this county his cash capital amounted to but thirteen dollars, but by persistent, untiring and indefatigable effort he has gradually worked his way upward until he is now numbered among the substantial and representative citizens of the community.

On the 26th of September, 1906, Mr. Fausset was united in marriage to Miss Mabel Dyer, whose birth occurred in Putnam county, Indiana, on the 20th of November, 1879, her parents being James and Mary (Sallust) Dyer, natives of Tennessee and Indiana respectively. Mrs. Dyer passed away when her daughter Mabel was but a year old, and the latter was reared by her maternal grandparents. James Dyer is still living and now makes his home near Amo, in Hendricks county, Indiana. Subsequent to the death of his first wife he wedded Miss Elma Byrd. The first representative of the Dyer family in this county was William Dyer, the great-great-grandfather of Mrs. Fausset, who crossed the Atlantic from England to the United States and located near Knoxville, Tennessee. His son, Owen Dyer, was the father of Andrew Dyer, the grandfather of Mrs. Fausset. Andrew Dyer passed away near Knoxville, Tennessee, in middle age. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Martha Gibbs, still survives and now resides in Benton county, Arkansas. They had two children: James; and Sallie, the wife of Al Hazel. William Sallust, the maternal grandfather of Mrs. Fausset, was a native of Virginia and an agriculturist by occupation. He wedded Miss Sarah Thomas and they became early settlers of Putnam county, Indiana, where he made his home until the time of his death, which occurred when he was well advanced in years. Unto him and his wife were born seven children, namely:

Mr. Fausset gives his political allegiance to the men and measures of the democracy, while fraternally he is identified with the Modern Woodmen of America. He certainly deserves great credit for what he has accomplished, as he owes his success entirely to his own labors. Not afraid of hard work, his industry has proven the key which has unlocked for him the portals of prosperity.

Carroll Stewart Ragan

Carroll Stewart Ragan, who since May, 1908, has been the editor of the Galva News, was bom in Neoga, Cumberland county, Illinois, on the 5th of October, 1879, his parents being Dr. Gillum T. and Sara (Osbourne) Ragan, natives of Kentucky. The paternal grandfather, Robert Ragan, whose birth occurred in Virginia, was of Irish descent. He was a bridge and iron-work contractor. Unto him and his wife, who bore the maiden name of Nancy Smith, were born 6ve children, as follows: Gillum T.; Robert Samuel; Zachary, who served as a major general in the Civil war; William; and Isabelle, who died in early womanhood. The maternal grandfather of our subject was Samuel Osbourne, a native of Virginia and of Scotch descent. He was a teacher by profession and passed away in middle life. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Cynthia Stewart, died at the age of seventy-seven years. Their family numbered three children: Cynthia, Samuel and Sara.

Dr. Gillum T. Ragan, the father of Carroll S. Ragan, was graduated from Wabash College at Crawfordsville, Indiana, in i860, winning the degree of Bachelor of Arts. For some years and during the entire period of the Civil war he was in the employ of the government in the quartermaster general's office. After the close of hostilities between the north and the south he took up the study of medicine in Georgetown University at Georgetown, D. C, and when he had completed the prescribed course located for practice at Winchester, Indiana. He remained there, however, for only a short time and then established his home in Neoga, Illinois, where he has been successfully engaged in the practice of medicine and surgery to the present time. Both he and his wife are devoted and consistent members of the Presbyterian church. They reared a family of eight children, four sons and four daughters, seven of whom still: survive, namely : Julia, the wife of E. R. Black, of Lincoln, Nebraska ; Samuel O., a resident of Everett, Washington ; Robert R., living in Indianapolis ; Belle, the wife of Charles B. Wood, of Mattoon, Illinois ; Carroll Stewart, of this review ; Sara, the wife of William G. Hammond, of Brooklyn, New York; and Lucia.

Carroll S. Ragan was reared in the place of his nativity and completed the high school course at Neoga in 1897. He afterward attended Wabash College for two years and then entered the University of Illinois, taking special courses in music and languages. Subsequently he accepted a position as reporter on the Champaign Gazette and later acted in a similar capacity for the Nonpareil of Council Bluffs, Iowa, and the Omaha Daily News. Afterwards he was employed in the advertising department of the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad Company for two years and thence once more took up newspaper reporting, securing a position on the stafif of the Herald-Transcript at Peoria. He also did regular editorial work for that paper, having gained some experience in that line while employed on the stafif of the Omaha Naily News. He is a cousin of Lloyd Osbourne, the novelist. In May, 1908, he came to Galva and took charge of the Galva News, the former editor, E. E. Fitch, having been elected county clerk. He also does general job printing and is a young man of keen discrimination and excellent executive ability, who has already attained an enviable position as a representative of journalistic interests in this part of the state.

In his political views Mr. Ragan is a stanch republican, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Presbyterian church. He is an exemplary Mason and also belongs to Beta Theta Pi, a college fraternity. He is \vell educated in music and is a member of the Galva Band and also chorister at the Baptist church in Kewanee. His influence is ever found on the side of progress and improvement and in support of those movements which promote the material, intellectual, social and moral welfare of the community.

Adolph Maul

Adolph Maul needs no introduction to the readers of this volume, for the active part which he has taken in public affairs has made him a well known and honored citizen of Kewanee. He has figured for many years as a representative business man here, and throughout the period of his connection with Kewanee he has been numbered with that group of able men who are helping to carry on the philanthropic and educational interests and work of general public benefit without any other reward than an occasional expression of appreciation and a sense of putting in work where it is most needed. He was born in Weida, Germany, July 12, 1830, a son of Gauliep and Johanna Maul. The father was an attorney by profession and was appointed by the government to a position on the bench. In his later years he was pensioned by the government and died in 1878, having for two years survived his wife, who passed away in Germany in 1876.

Adolph Maul acquired his education under private tutors in Germany and there learned the miller's trade, which he followed in his native country until June, 1854, when he came to America. He took up his abode in Newark, New Jersey, and continued to engage in milling there and in various places until his removal to Burlington, Iowa, in 1856. He remained for some time in that city, after which he returned to Germany on account of the health of himself and brother. The year 1863 witnessed his arrival in Kewanee, where he established a bakery and restaurant on the present site of the First National Bank. He conducted that in connection with the grocery store, of which he was proprietor for thirty years. Since 1893 he has been engaged in the general insurance and real-estate business and is one of the oldest and best known business men of the city, his reliability and enterprise at all times winning him the respect, confidence and good will of all with whom he has been associated. He was one of

Mr, Maul has taken an active and helpful part in public affairs relative to the advancement and progress of the city. He was one of the members of the first board of education and has served in all for seventeen years on the board, doing effective work for the public schools. He has also been a trustee of the village and he served for five years as assistant supervisior of his township. He has likewise been an enthusiastic champion of the public library, has done active duty on the library board and was serving thereon at the time of the erection of the present attractive library building. His connection with the board covers in all twenty-five years, and he is now its president. He has been a member and chairman of the grand jury, and at all times his influence is on the side of right, progress and improvement.

In 1863 Mr. Maul was united in marriage to Miss Mary James of North Carolina, and unto them have been born five living children : Hedwig, who is a teacher of German in a St. Louis school; Emma, the wife of David Horner, a merchant of Kewanee ; Edward G., who is engaged in teaching in Seattle, Washington; William, who is in the employ of the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad Company at Chicago ; and Lina, a teacher of Latin in the Kewanee high school.

Mr. Maul has been a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows for the past thirty-six years and is loyal to the teachings of the fraternity. In 1870. with his two brothers, he again returned to Germany on a visit. The voyage was in marked contrast to his first trip across the Atlantic, on which occasion he was forty-three days under sail. On his last trip he spent only a few days on shipboard ere he reached his destination, such being the improvement that had been made in steam navigation. Kewanee acknowledges her indebtedness to Mr. Maul for many acts that have been of great benefit to the city. He has set out a large number of trees in the parks, the schoolyards, the cemetery and all public places, adding much thereby to the beauty of the city. He beheves in working not only for the present but for future generations and is a man of patriotic spirit and generous aims, whose memory will be held in grateful remembrance long after he shall have ceased to be an active factor in life's work. He has now passed the seventy-ninth milestone on life's journey but yet maintains deep and active interest in public affairs and is one of Kewanee's most honored citizens.

Clark Benjamin Aby

The life record of Clark Benjamin Aby is in contradistinction to the old adage that "a prophet is not without honor save in his own country," for in Galva township, where his entire life has been spent, he is ranked among the leading lawyers and is now serving his second term as city attorney of Galva. Born on a farm a mile and a half east of Galva, Illinois, on the 15th of April, 1871, he is a son of Alexander and Melvina (Stanton) Aby. The maternal grandfather of our subject was Clark Stanton, a native of New York, who was a mill- wright and miller by trade. He came west with his family at a very early date, before the railroads had been built, making the journey on a flat boat down the Ohio river. He first located at Peoria, which was at that time a mere village, and later removed to Rochester in Peoria county, where he erected a mill upon the banks of the Spoon river. His mill was the first to be built on that stream and was the only one within a radius of fifty miles. He remained here for several years and then, losing his health, he started for California. He only got half way, however, and then returned home, continuing his residence in Rochester until his demise, which occurred after he had attained a good old age. His wife was a Miss Barnes in her maidenhood and by her marriage to Mr. Stanton became the mother of the following: Irene S., the wife of John Aby; Melvina S., the mother of our subject; Cloy, who married Dr. Sylvester Cravens; Erastus S. : and Frank S. Alexander Aby, the father of Clark Benjamin Aby, was born in Richland county, Ohio, and was a son of Benjamin Aby. A farmer by occupation, he came to IHinois at a very early date, settling first in Peoria county, while later he came to Galva township, where he purchased a farm of one hundred and sixty acres. When he arrived in this district much of the land was still unclaimed and unimproved, but with characteristic energy he cast in his lot with the pioneer settlers and began immediately to clear his property and prepare the soil for cultivation. As the years went by he converted the raw land into productive fields and became one of the prosperous and substantial farmers of the township. He now lives retired in Galesburg, his wife having passed away in 1905, at the age of seventy-nine years. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church of Galva, while a short time prior to her death his wife became a student of Christian Science. In their family were nine children, seven sons and two daughters, four of whom are still living, namely : Arthur, residing in Kelso, North Dakota; Frank S., practicing medicine in Chicago; Charles O. ; and Clark Benjamin.

Clark Benjamin Aby, the youngest surviving member of the family, resided upon his father's farm in Galva township until thirteen years of age, when the family removed to Galva, where he has since made his home. He supplemented his district school training by a course at Galva high school, and then prepared for a professional life by taking up the study of law in the law department of the Northwestern University at Chicago, Illinois, from which he was graduated with the class of 1896. He was admitted to the bar in June of the same year and at once opened an office for the practice of law in Galva, where he has since continued to follow his profession. From the outset he has been most successful and his practice has now grown to extensive proportions and is of an important character, while his high standing in the community is indicated by the fact that he is now serving as city attorney. Along with those qualities indispensable to the lawyer, a keen, rapid, logical mind plus the business sense and a ready capacity for hard work, he brought to the starting point of his legal career other gifts - a strong personaHty, an earnest manner, marked strength of character, a thorough grasp of the law and the ability to accurately apply its principles.

It was on the 22d of July, 1896, that Mr. Aby was united in marriage to Miss Lillian A. Nordstrom, a daughter of Andrew and Catharine (Eriscon) Nordstrom, who were both old settlers of Henry county. The birth of Mrs. Aby occurred in Bishop Hill, this county, and she was one of five children, three of whom are now living, the others being Mrs. Ida M. Paddock, of Mankato, Minnesota, and Edward B. Nordstrom. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Aby were born two children, Rowland C. and Genevieve Evelyn Lillian.

In his religious faith Mr. Aby is a Methodist, while fraternally he belongs to Galva Lodge, No. 243, A. F. & A. M., of which he was secretary for four years and senior warden for one year, while he has also held various other offices in the lodge. He was recently elected master of this lodge. He likewise is a member of Galva Lodge, No. 417, K. P., and is also an active worker in that body. He is stalwart in his allegiance to the republican party, on which ticket he has filled several offices. He was the first alderman elected from the third ward after the village became a city, and he held that position one year, when he resigned to become a candidate for city attorney, in which office he is now serving his second term. He served as justice of the peace for seven years, and has always been very prominent and active in public affairs, lending his influence at all times to further the cause of progress, reform, improvement and advancement. He is the owner of four hundred acres of fine farm land in Traill county, North Dakota, which is a source of additional and gratifying revenue to him. Earnest effort, close application and the exercise of his native talents have won Mr. Aby prestige as an able lawyer and his high standing at the bar is a merited tribute to his success.

John E. Sandquist

John E. Sandquist, a successful and enterprising agriculturist and stock raiser of Cambridge township, is actively engaged in the operation of the D. C. Tomlinson farm, comprising two hundred and fifty-six acres of land on section 13. He was born in Sweden on the isth of January, 1871, his parents being Swan Peter and Sophia Louise (Larson) Carlson, who were likewise natives of that country. The father spent his entire life in Sweden and followed various pursuits throughout his active business career. He passed away in 1900 at the age of sixty-five years. His widow still survives and makes her home in Sweden. She is a faithful member of the Lutheran church, with which her husband was also identified. Their union was blessed with five children, as follows : Sophia Louise, the widow of Charles Samuelson; Charles A., who is a resident of Colorado; John E., of this review; Ida Josephine, the wife of J. S. Andree, of Chicago; and Oscar E., living in Sweden.

John E. Sandquist was reared on the home farm and obtained his education in the schools of his native land. Determining to establish his home on this side the Atlantic, he set sail for the United States and on the 17th of March, 1884, landed on American shores. He made his way at once to Cambridge, Henry county, and for several years worked as a farm hand by the month. He now rents and operates what is known as the D. C. Tomlinson farm of two hundred and fifty-six acres, located on section 13 in Cambridge township. In addition to cultivating the cereals best adapted to soil and climate he also raises considerable stock and in both undertakings is meeting with gratifying success.

He owns one hundred and sixty acres of land in Morris county, Kansas, five miles from Lost Springs, and there makes his home at the present time. It is a very valuable piece of land and he recently refused an offer to sell it for twentyfive hundred dollars more than he paid for it.

On the 17th of February, 1897, Mr. Sandquist was united in marriage to Miss Hulda J. Carlson, a native of Andover township, this county, and a daughter of S. A. and Christana (Peterson) Carlson, who were born in Sweden and became early settlers of Andover township. The father is now living retired in Cambridge. He was twice married and by his first wife had five children, namely: Axel, a resident of Evanston, Illinois; Albert C. ; Mary, the wife of August Sandberg; Frank August; and Mrs. Sandquist. For his second wife S. A. Carlson chose Miss Sophia Larson, by whom he has two children : Emil J. ; and Ellen, the wife of E. P. Peterson, Mr. and Mrs. Sandquist are now the parents of six children, namely : Nannie Genevieve ; Charles Robert Rudolph ; Vera Mabel ; Grace Luella and Bessie Leona, twins ; and Henrietta Louise. All were born in Andover township, this county.

Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr, Sandquist has given his political allegiance to the men and measures of the republican party. Fraternally he is identified with the Modern Woodmen of America, and his wife is a Lutheran in religious faith. The hope that led him to leave his native land and seek a home in America has been more than realized. He found the opportunities he sought - which, by the way, are always open to the ambitious, energetic man - and making the best of these he has steadily worked his way upward.