Henry County, Illinois - The whole text, 1910 (part 18 of 32)

In the district schools near his home Thomas C. Cowden acquired a good knowledge of the various branches of English learning therein taught, and the period of his boyhood and youth was spent under the parental roof, the time not devoted to his text-books being given to assisting his father in the work of the fields, early becoming familiar with the best methods of plowing, planting and harvesting. When about sixteen years of age he ran away from home and went to Chicago, where, actuated by a spirit of patriotism, he enlisted as a member of Company E, One Hundred and Fifty-third Illinois Volunteer Infantry, with which he went to the front and served for over six months or until the close of hostilities. He then returned home and gave his father the benefit of his assistance until twentyone years of age, when, upon attaining his majority, he started out in life on his own account, locating on a farm of eighty acres which his father had given him adjoining the old homestead. His place now consists of one hundred and twenty acres all in one body. He continued to concentrate his energies upon general agricultural pursuits for a number of years, in the meantime bringing his fields under a high state of cultivation and instituting many improvements upon the farm. He erected new barns and outbuildings, built a new windmill and has put in a large amount of tile, by means of which the soil is excellently drained. On the farm is a fine orchard of his own planting, containing apple, peach, pear, plum and cherry trees, all of which bear abundant fruit in season. During the past he devoted much time to stock raising, making a specialty of red Jersey hogs and high grade work horses. He yet owns a full blooded Percheron stallion that is well known throughout this section of the county. For the past five years, however, he has rented his farm, although he retains the overseeing of the place, and that his well directed efforts and intelligently applied labors have been crowned with most gratifying success is indicated by the fact that he is now able to live retired from active duties and enjoy the comforts of life without further recourse to hard labor.

On the 6th of February, 1883, Mr. Cowden was united in marriage in Salisbury, Sheridan county, Missouri, to Miss Anna Michaels, a daughter of Isaac and Margaret (Walker) Michaels and a representative of two old Illinois families, the Walkers being numbered among the first families to settle in McDonough county, while the Michaels were among the first to establish homes in Henderson county. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Cowden were born two children, both of whom are still at home, namely: Lawrence H., twenty- four years of age; and Flossie E., eighteen years of age. The son has spent the past few years in study and travel,

Although occupying a prominent position among the residents of Burns township by reason of the success which has attended him in his business ventures, Mr. Cowden is equally well known by reason of the active and influential part which he has at all times taken in public affairs. Early in life he became interested in the politics of the country and, forming his own opinions and rules of conduct, has given stalwart support to the republican party since casting his first presidential vote for U. S. Grant. He has been elected constable three times, was township collector for two years and has been elected assessor three times, his incumbency in that office covering six years. A stanch champion of public education, he has been a school director ever since attaining man's estate and has been clerk of the school board throughout that time with the exception of one year. He has served on the township committee for eight years and is now serving on the county committee, while for eighteen years he was a member of the drainage commission and has recently been elected for another term of three years. Fortunate in possessing ability and character that inspired confidence, the simple weight of his character and ability has brought him into positions of trust and responsibility and he ranks high among the well known and valued citizens of Burns township.

John H. Young

John H. Young, a successful farmer, stock raiser, feeder and shipper, whose home is on section 8, Osco township, where he has two hundred and twelve acres, was born in Munson township, this county, March 5, 1855. His parents were James and Ann Young, both natives of Scotland, where they grew to maturity and were married and where their eldest child was born. Some time in the '40s they crossed the Atlantic ocean and came to Illinois, locating first in Bureau county. About 1850 they removed to Henry county, where James Young spent the remainder of his days, becoming one of the large landholders of his locality. Eight children were born to him and his wife, one of whom died in childhood and five of whom are still living. Those who grew to maturity were Jennie, who married Sydney Summas and died in Sedgwick county, Kansas, leaving a large family ; James, who is now a resident of Munson township, and a sketch of whose life appears elsewhere in this work; Mary Ann, who is the wife of Robert Ruxton and lives in Des Moines county, Iowa, where she is rearing a family of five children; John H., who is the subject of this sketch; William, who married Miss Daisy Tomlinson and passed away, leaving two children ; Maggie, who married Theo Souers and lives at Grundy Center, Iowa, where she is rearing four children; and Anna, who married James Ensey and lives in Geneseo, where they are rearing six children. The father became a republican when he was first admitted to citizenship in this republic, but later in his life espoused the cause of the democratic party. Religiously he was identified with the Presbyterian church in Munson township.

John H. Young obtained his education in the common schools of this county, while he received sound training for the responsibilities of life at home under the guidance of his parents. Until after he had reached his majority he remained under the parental roof and then engaged in agricultural pursuits for himself, renting land for the first three years. In the spring of 1881 he went to Hardin county, Iowa, to operate a farm his father had bought there, remaining in that state for about nine years, although he had married in the meantime. He went next to Nuckolls county, Nebraska, where he secured one hundred and sixty acres, for which he paid twenty dollars an acre. During the fifteen years he lived in that state he acquired six hundred and eighty acres, five hundred and twenty of which are still in his possession. In 1906, after the death of his wife's parents, he returned to Illinois, purchasing the family homestead, on which he has since resided. Here he devotes himself to general farming and also raises and feeds large quantities of stock, which he ships to the large markets. Both branches of his business have yielded him a gratifying income, so that he holds a high place among the men of Osco township who are engaged in like pursuits.

On the I2th of August, 1885, Mr. Young married Miss Leonora McClain, a native of Edford township and a daughter of Robert and Leonora (McCoy) Mc- Clain. Her father was born in Belfast, County Antrim, Ireland, in March, 1824, and in early life came to the new world. Her mother was also a native of County Antrim, her birth occurring in Ballycastle, August 8, 1829. In August, 1849, she came to the United States and located at Port Kennedy, Pennsylvania. It was in that state that she was married March i, 1851, to Robert McClain, and they made their home in Port Kennedy until after the birth of three of their children. On coming to Henry county, Illinois, they first located in Edford township, where Mr. McClain purchased a farm, but in 1865 removed to Osco township, which was their home until settling in Morristown in 1879. Throughout his active business life he followed farming and died in Osco, March 4, 1885. In his family were nine children, seven sons and two daughters : William K., born in Port Kennedy, Montgomery county, Pennsylvania, December 9, 1852, died in Keokuk, Iowa, September 26, 1903, leaving two children; Robert, born in Port Kennedy, September 22, 1854, died in Osco township, this county, March 17, 1872; Daniel, born in Port Kennedy, November 3, 1856, is living in Nemaha county, Kansas, and is the father of two children; Alexander, born in Edford township, this county, October 22, 1859; also lives in Nemaha county, Kansas, and has one child; Leonora, born in Edford township, October 4, 1861, is now Mrs. Young; Isabella, bom in Edford township, June 3, 1863, is unmarried and lives in Henry county, Missouri; James, born in Osco township, June 20, 1865, is also unmarried and lives in Henry county, Missouri; John, born in Osco township, August 8, 1867, lives in Laredo, Missouri, and is the father of five children ; and Archie Robert, born in Osco township, December 20, 1871, lives in Pennsylvania.

Mr. and Mrs. Young have had three children. James, the eldest, was born in Hardin county, Iowa, June 24, 1886, and was graduated from the Geneseo Collegiate Institute with the class of 1909. Robert McClain was also bom in that county, February 26, 1888. He died at the age of seventeen and was buried in the cemetery of Grace Episcopal church in Osco. John Harvey was born in Nuckolls county, Nebraska, March 19, 1892. Mr. Young has always been a stanch adherent of the democratic party but has never sought any office within the gift of the people. He does not affiHate with any church but his wife is a consistent member of Grace Episcopal church and takes an active part in its work.

J. B. Baldwin

J. B. Baldwin, an old soldier, who is now retired from active business in Anna wan, was born in Essex county, New Jersey, December 22, 1839, and is a son of Lemuel and Rachel (Perry) Baldwin, both natives of that state, the father's birth having occurred January i, 1807, the mother's December 8, 181 1. Being left an orphan, Lemuel Baldwin at the age of fourteen, was bound out for seven years to a shoemaker, with whom he learned his trade but with whom he did not serve, full time as at the age of nineteen he paid a sum of money as compensation for the remaining two years He then entered a cigar factory, where he remained imtil 1844, when he went to Columbus, Ohio, and established a cigar factory. In 1852 the family removed to Peoria, Illinois, though they remained only one year and then returned to Columbus, Ohio, where the father died in 1856. The mother then lived with her children until 1863, when she came to make her home with a sister in Cambridge, Illinois, since three of her sons had gone to the war. Nine years later she removed to Annawan to live with her son, J. B. Baldwin, and in 1874 passed away, being buried in the cemetery at Annawan.

To Mr. and Mrs. Lemuel Baldwin were born nine children, only two of whom are now living. Marietta, the eldest, became the wife of J. L. Lee, and lived in Ohio, where he passed away, but she died in Moline, Illinois. They are survived by a son, J. L., a resident of Moline. Alpheus died at Fort Dodge, Iowa. William A., who died in Washington, D. C, was a member of the Forty-third Ohio Regiment and is buried in Arlington military cemetery of Washington. Merritt died in New Haven, Connecticut, about 1900. The fifth child, J. B., is the subject of this sketch. Kennard died in Columbus, Ohio, at the age of six or seven years. Harry H. was a member of the One Hundred and Twelfth Illinois Regiment and is now living at Fort Dodge, Iowa. He has three children : Omer, a photographer of Fort Dodge, Iowa ; Richard, a mail carrier of that city ; and Dawm, the wife of William H. Gaughlin, a resident of Phoenix, Arizona. Fannie died at the age of five or six years. Sarah, the youngest of this family, became the wife of Oscar Van Brunt, of Cambridge, Illinois. Both have passed away, she in Kansas, he in Oklahoma.

J. B. Baldwin received his first education in the district schools, from which he passed to the high school of Columbus. At the close of his schooldays he obtained employment in a hotel in that city, where he remained until the nation sent a call through the country for her sons to come and fight in her defense. In March, 1862, he enlisted in the Eighty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry for a term of three years. The regiment was attached to the Army of the Potomac and in the fall of 1863 under the command of General Hooker went to Chattanooga, with the Eleventh and Twelfth Army Corps, which were later consolidated and known as the Twenty-eighth Army Corps. The regiment took part in the more important battles of the campaign of the latter years of the struggle. They participated in the battles of Gettysburg, Chancellorsville, Second Bull Run, Cedar Mountain, and Cross Keys, while connected with the Army of the Potomac. They were with Sherman in the Atlanta campaign and on the famous march to the sea, and in one of the battles of this period, that known at Pumpkin Vine Creek, Mr. Baldwin received a wound but was able to remain with his regiment. After moving to Chattanooga, they took part in the night battle of Wauhatchie, Tennessee, near Lookout Mountain, and in the battles that occurred at this last-named place and at Missionary Ridge. Continuing on to Atlanta, in the battles or skirmishes of Resaca, Pumpkin Vine Creek, Lost Mountain, Kenesaw Mountain, Kleb's Farm, and Peach Tree Creek, Mr. Baldwin and his company acquitted themselves with honor as soldiers and as men. They assisted in the battle and siege of Atlanta and then started on the march to the sea and were in the Carolina campaign, engaging in the battles of Bentonville and Averysboro, on the 19th and 20th of March, 1865. Four months later, July 29, 1865, Mr. Baldwin was honorably discharged from the service, having been at his post during thirty-seven engagements. On returning from the field of carnage, when his services were no longer required, he took up farming, going first to Cambridge, Illinois, in 1865, and the next year coming to Annawan, which has been his home ever since. Some years ago he opened a restaurant here, but with advancing age he has given this up and has retired to a life of comparative rest.

In 1868 Mr. Baldwin married Miss Sarah A, Slater, who was bom December 27, 1842, in Coeymans, New York, and was a daughter of F. H. and Mary (Myers) Slater. The father was a farmer in New York state but died in Annawan in 1898 at the age of eighty-nine years. He had a family of nine children, only one now survives, John, who lives near Chicago, where he is engaged in the realestate business and speculation. Mrs. Baldwin died on the 26th of September, 1881, and was buried in the cemetery at Annawan. She was a consistent member of the Congregational church and passed away attended by the consolations of that faith. Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Baldwin, all deceased. Mary E., born in Annawan in 1872, was graduated from the Annawan high school and for several years before her marriage taught in the schools of Henry county. She died August 8, 1901, leaving a husband, John Keener, and one child. Myrtle E. Anna, also born in Annawan in 1874, died December 21, 1899, and was buried beside .her mother in the cemetery at Annawan. She was likewise a graduate of the high school here and was a good musician and artist, having received her instruction from her aunt. The third child died in infancy. Of both his daughters Mr. Baldwin possesses good photographs which in slight measure serve to recall them to memory.

In politics Mr. Baldwin is a republican, and although he has held several offices in the village he can scarcely be called a politician or an office-seeker. His religious affiliation is with the Congregational church, of which, like his wife, he has ever been a consistent member. He belongs to the T. T. Dow Grand Army Post, No. 290, has taken an active interest in its meetings and has attended more than twelve of the national encampments. His way of life has not been one of ease but by industry and thrift he has obtained a comfortable income that will permit him to pass his remaining years in ease. Since the death of all his wife's people he has lived alone, but he is a man of easy approach, affable in his reception of strangers, kind and considerate of his friends, who are always willing to welcome him as a genial spirit to their gatherings.

Harry E. Brown

There is no profession in which advancement depends more surely upon individual effort than in the law. It is a calling in which wealth or influence avail little or naught toward the attainment of success but where close application, earnest purpose and intellectual strength constitute the foundation on which prosperity is built. Mr. Brown now practicing at the Geneseo bar, has made a creditable record in connection with the work of the courts. He was born at Wyanet, Bureau county, Illinois, April 22, 1872, and is a son of Constant and Annie M. (Wilcox) Brown, both of whom were natives of the Empire state, and are mentioned elsewhere in this volume. It was also in New York that Charles H. Brown, the grandfather, was born and reared. He was of English lineage and a descendant of Peter Brown, who crossed the Atlantic in the Mayflower during the formative period of our nation's history. Charles H. Brown belonged to the state militia of New York and while residing there engaged in business as a merchant tailor. He married Susan H. Hees and after living for many years in the east they removed to Geneseo, where Mr. Brown died when well advanced in years. His widow afterward went to Cleveland, Ohio, where her last days were passed. In their family were two sons and two daughters : Mary, who became the wife of J. E. H. Kelley ; Helen, who died when a young lady; Constant, the father of our subject; and Jacob H., of Cleveland, Ohio.

In the maternal line Harry E. Brown can trace his ancestral history back to Joshua and Mollie Wilcox, the great-grandparents. The former served as a valiant soldier of the American army in the Revolutionary war. His son, Oliver G. Wilcox, was born in New York, October 27, 1795, and having arrived at years of maturity was married April 25, 1819, to Elizabeth Hees. He made farming his life work and died August 9, 1887, having for more than twenty-eight years survived his wife who died June 12, 1859. They were the parents of ten children: Josiah, Henrietta, Jerome, Clinton, Eveline, John J., William Henry, Oliver J., George W. and Annie M. The last named became the wife of Constant Brown and they are now residents of Geneseo.

Harry E. Brown resided in Bureau county, Illinois, until twelve years of age and during the period attended the Wyanet public schools. His early educational advantages were afterward supplemented by study in Geneseo where in 1889 he completed the high-school course. After determining upon the practice of law as a life work he became a student in the law department of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, was graduated in 1895 and the same year was admitted to the bar. He then formed a partnership with Emery C. Graves, who is now a judge of the circuit court and for six years they practiced together. Since that time Mr. Brown has been alone and occupies beautiful offices over the Central

Trust and Savings Bank. His clientage is extensive and of a distinctively representative character. He is regarded as a wise counselor and able advocate and in the presentation of his cause before the court seldom fails to win the verdict desired.

On the 28th of April, 1904, occurred the marriage of Mr. Brown and Miss Mabel Welton, a native of Cambridge, Illinois, and a daughter of Frank G. and Ella M. (Clark) Welton. Her mother was born at Rockford, Illinois, while her father was a native of Connecticut. They were early settlers of Henry county, this state, the father coming here in his boyhood days in 185 1. He died August 8, 1907, at the age of sixty-four years. He was a soldier of the Civil war, serving in Company B, Forty-second Illinois Volunteer Infantry. He was equally loyal to his country in days of peace and for thirty-two years was county clerk, filling that position at the time of his death. His wife, who was born December 13, 1849, is still living in Cambridge, Illinois. They were the parents of six children: Albert D. ; Clarence W. ; Kate C, the wife of Judge B. M. Smith, of Chicago; Mabel E., now Mrs. Brown; Susan B., the wife of Loring R. Sheppard; and Thomas, of Cambridge. There is also definite information to be had concerning the paternal grandfather of Mrs. Brown - Albert Welton. He was a native of Connecticut and in the east married Susan E. Bidwell. In 1851 they came to Henry county, Illinois, and were farming people here. His death occurred in Greenwood, Nebraska, in 1902, while his wife passed away in 1906. They were the parents of four children : Frank G., Mary E., George W. and Clarence W.

In his political views Mr. Brown has been an earnest republican since age conferred upon him the right of franchise but the honors and emoluments of office have little attraction for him. He is a member of the Methodist church while his wife belonged to the Episcopal church and they occupy a pleasant and attractive home on Main street, which is the abode of warm-hearted and generous hospitality. Mr. Brown is appreciative of the social amenities of life and his genial qualities have won him many friends but his attention is preeminently given to his professional duties, his devotion to his clients' interests being proverbial.

Henry Washburn

He whose name introduces this review represents a family which has long been prominently known in agricultural circles in Henry county, his native county. He was born on the ist of September, 1840, in Colona township, in which locality he still makes his home. His parents, Abisha and Isabella (Clapp) Washburn, originally came from Springfield, Massachusetts, arriving in Illinois in May, 1837, being numbered among the early pioneer residents of this county. A full record of the family is given on another page of this volume in the sketch of George Washburn, a nephew of our subject. Abisha Washburn was a farmer by occupation and engaged in that line of activity up until his death. He was progressive and prosperous in his affairs and became a large landowner in Colona township. His death occurred in 1872, his wife having passed away in 1850.

Henry Washburn was the first child born after the arrival of the family in Illinois, and under the parental roof he was reared to manhood. He lost his mother when but ten years of age, and the period of his boyhood and youth were passed under his father's direction. He attended the district schools near his home in the acquirement of an education while his practical training was received between the plow handles. When not engaged with his text-books he assisted his father in the arduous task of opening up a new farm and converting the raw land into rich and abundant fields. None of the modern conveniences and appliances for facilitating farm labor were known at that time, and the work of developing a farm was attended by many obstacles and difficulties. He remained at home, giving his father the benefit of his aid in the management of the family and the operation of the farm until the latter's death, continuing to operate a part of the home farm even after his marriage. After the father's demise one hundred and sixty acres of the estate came into his possession, and he has since made his home upon that farm. He has been eminently successful in his agricultural pursuits and with the passing of the years has been able to add to his original holdings until today he is the owner of three hundred and twenty-seven acres, all under a high state of cultivation and all well improved. In its midst stands a fine modern dwelling while in the rear are foimd substantial and commodious barns and outbuildings, the place being equipped with all modern accessories that go to make up a model farm of the twentieth century. He has made a close study of agriculture and thoroughly understands the best methods of enriching the soil, while he is upto-date and systematic in the conduct of his agricultural pursuits, so that he has become recognized as one of the substantial, progressive and prosperous farmers of the locality.

Mr. Washburn has been twice married, his first union being with Miss Zebuline Bailey, the ceremony occurring in September, 1863. She was a daughter of Charles and Charlotte (Callahan) Bailey, a prominent family of Coal Valley, Rock Island county, Illinois, who came to this state from Ohio in the early pioneer days. This union was blessed with five children, three of whom passed away in infancy. Those who survive are : Charles, a successful farmer of the state of Washington; and Clarissa, the wife of Charles Shaffer, of Nebraska. The wife and mother died in November, 1867, and in May, 1869, Mr. Washburn wedded Miss Maria J. Britton, a daughter of Samuel and Jane Britton, English people, who came to Henry county at an early date. This marriage was blessed with four children : Grace, the eldest, died in youth ; Walter, at home ; Jennie, the wife of William Hannah, who is associated with Mr. Washburn in the operation of the home farm ; and Lottie, a student in school.

Mr. Washburn is stalwart in his allegiance to the democracy but has never taken a very active part in local politics, preferring to concentrate his time and attention upon the conduct of his private affairs. He is preeminently publicspirited, however, deeming it the duty of every loyal citizen to support his party at the polls and take an interest in all matters that have for their object the substantial growth and upbuilding of the community. Although he has never desired nor sought public office as the reward for party fealty, nevertheless he was elected by his fellow citizens to the office of road commissioner and he also served as a member of the local school board for a number of years. A man of progressive and modern ideas, he stands high in the estimation of his fellowmen who are acquainted with his life record from his boyhood days, and his sterHng integrity and honorable manhood have won for him a circle of friends which is almost coextensive with the circle of his acquaintances. He is a devoted husband and loving and indulgent father, and he is much given to charity, being well known throughout the community for his many kindly services.

George G. Wirt

Oxford township is rich in men whose sterling worth would prove them an acquisition to any locality and among them must be enrolled George G. Wirt. He is a native son of Illinois, having been born September 5, 1856, in Mercer county. His parents were Martin and Esther (Groves) Wirt, the father a native of Lake county, Ohio, the mother born in England and coming to this country when a young girl. The father came to Mercer county, Illinois, when a young man, married there and there spent the rest of his life. He was a farmer and fruit grower, and a nurseryman in a small way. His death occurred some years ago, but his widow still survives.

George G. Wirt grew up on his father's farm and as usual with the sons of a man engaged in agricultural pursuits, found no lack of employment. He was educated in the public schools, supplementing the knowledge there acquired by a course in the Bushnell Business College. For several years he engaged in the nursery business in Mercer county, and in 1889 he went to Salem, Oregon, where he devoted his energies to the same industry in partnership with his brother William, who remained in the west for a year after his return. Upon coming back to Mercer county he married and brought his bride with him to Alpha, Henry county, where he has since lived and encountered success. He still clings to the fruit and nursery business, which his father before him found congenial and profitable. He grows all kinds of hardy fruits and berries, and shade and ornamental trees. One of his specialties is strawberries and strawberry plants. He handles the finest varieties of nursery stock obtainable and consequently commands the best prices. He shows his progressiveness by each year issuing a catalogue, and his trade covers central Illinois and part of Iowa and Wisconsin, even extending into the Pacific states and Canada. With a fine record for good stock and honest dealing, his business has increased each year until it has assumed large proportions.

Mr. Wirt was married in December, 1891, to Miss Rachel Ann Sloan, a daughter of John and Rachel Sloan, who resided near New Boston in Mercer county, of which they both were natives. Both parents have for some years been dead. Mr. and Mrs. Wirt have two children, a son and a daughter, Harold and Mabel. The son is a graduate of the Alpha high school, in which the daughter is still a student.

In his political convictions Mr. Wirt is a loyal republican, not active in political affairs but always interested. He has served as road commissioner; was a town clerk for several years and is now, as he has been for a long term of years, a member of the town board. He holds membership in Alpha Lodge, I. O. O. F., and in the Modern Woodmen of America. Mr. Wirt and his family attend the Methodist church and are liberal contributors, although not members. Their home, which is among the most imposing in the town, is situated near the southern boundary of the village of Alpha and is equipped with all the modern conveniences and comforts. In his business relations, his home life, and as a member of the community, Mr. Wirt is entitled to the respect which he receives.

William R. Goodrich

One of the special features in the towns and small cities of Illinois is the location in them of men who, having spent the years of their business activity in hard work, have now retired and are prepared to take more interest in local affairs. Having the time and opportunity, they are able to give the best of themselves to the betterment of their community and they are therefore numbered among the most desirable residents of the places in which they see fit to locate. Kewanee is fortunate in having a number of these retired business men in its midst, and one deserving of more than special mention is William R. Goodrich. He enjoys the distinction of being one of the few in this part of the country who were born in the Sandwich Islands, his birth having occurred in Hilo, Hawaii, February 20, 1832, at a time when his father, the Rev. Joseph Goodrich, was a missionary of the Congregational church to the island.

Joseph Goodrich and his wife, Martha (Barnes) Goodrich, were both bom in Wethersfield, Connecticut, of English descent. By trade he was a ship carpenter, but felt called upon to devote himself to the ministry and having been ordained he was sent to Hawaii in 1822. During the many years he spent in that far-away land, Mr. Goodrich accomplished a wonderful amount of good and had the satisfaction of increasing the membership of his church until it numbered five thousand souls. It finally became the largest mission in the world. Having ended his pastorate there, this excellent man returned to his old home in 1836, and that same fall journeyed to Henry county, Illinois, making the trip from Chicago by wagon. Arriving here he located in what is now Kewanee township and following the custom of pioneers, entered one hundred and sixty acres of prairie land and one hundred and twenty acres of timber land. The death of the Rev. Joseph Goodrich occurred February 19, 1852, upon the farm he had secured from the government. No words are adequate to express the good accomplished by this missionary, but the results of his work still live and keep his memory green,

William R. Goodrich only attended school held in a primitive log building, which served as both schoolhouse and church edifice, but has never failed to learn from experience and is a well informed man. During the time he was attending school, he helped his father upon the farm, and remained with him until the father's death. Shortly afterward, he bega,n learning the trade of a carpenter and working at it. In 1855 he built the first schoolhouse in Kewanee, for H. G. Little and Nelson Lay. It was a one-story building fourteen by twenty- four feet, and the community was proud of it at that time. After four years' work at his trade, Mr. Goodrich erected a building and started the first bakery in Kewanee, but in three years' time turned it into a restaurant. This he conducted and also worked at gunsmithing until 1886, when he sold his interests and since then has been enjoying a well earned repose.

On November 22, 1857, occurred the marriage of Mr. Goodrich and Miss Harriet M. Slocum, who is a daughter of L. O. Slocum, a shoemaker, who came to Kewanee in 1856. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Goodrich are five in number, as follows: William B., of Chicago; Roland S., of southern Oregon; Frederick Grant, of Kewanee; Charles E., also of Kewanee; and Lewis J., an osteopathic physician of Santa Barbara, California.

Ever since the organization of the republican party Mr. Goodrich has affiliated with it and stanchly supported its candidates. Fraternally he is a member of the Independent Order of Mutual Aid. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, of which he was a trustee for six years, and for fourteen years he has acted as its janitor. During his active life Mr. Goodrich was a shrewd business man, who looked after his own interests while guarding those of his customers, and he established himself firmly in the confidence and respect of the community.

Robert J. Hawthorne

Robert J. Hawthorne owns a farm of eighty acres on section 22, Burns town^ ship, on which he makes his home, and he Hkewise operates one hundred and sixty acres in Burns township, belonging to his wife. Mr. Hawthorne was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, July 7, 1856. His father, Robert Hawthorne, was born in County Derry, Ireland, and when a young man came to the new world, locating in Philadelphia, where he worked as a machinist, having learned his trade in the old country. When only about thirty years of age, his finger was accidentally caught in a machine and cut off, and later blood poison developed, which caused his death. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Esther McRell, was a daughter of Robert McRell, a native of County Derry, Ireland, who came to America at an early day. Following the death of Mr. Hawthorne, his wife came with her three small children to Henry county from Philadelphia and in this section reared her family and spent her remaining days, her death occurring in Burns township in 1906, when she was seventy-six years of age.

Robert J. Hawthorne was a little lad of seven years at the time the home was established in Henry county. He was the second in order of birth, having a sister older and a brother younger. Prior to the removal from Philadelphia the son had attended the public schools of that city for two years. He resumed his studies in the district schools of Burns township, after which he went to Jacksonville, Illinois, where he pursued a course in Brown's Business College, while later he spent one year in a literary college in that city and still later spent a similar period in the Illinois College at that place. Having thus prepared himself for starting out in business on his own account, Mr. Hawthorne then returned to Bums township and engaged in teaching for two years. However, farm life seemed to appeal more favorably to him and at the end of that time he purchased his home farm of eighty acres, located on section 22, Burns township, and this he has since continued to cultivate. He has here erected a nice country home, has built all the barns and outbuildings that are seen on the place, having a grain elevator and a corn crib with a capacity of four thousand bushels. He has also put up a windmill and installed a four horse power gasoline engine. In addition to cultivating his own land, Mr. Hawthorne also operates a farm of one hundred and sixty acres in Burns township, belonging to his wife. In addition to his home farm he likewise owns one hundred and sixty acres of land in Oklahoma. He raises Poland China hogs to a considerable extent and also raises cattle.

Mr. Hawthorne was married in Galva, Illinois, on the i8th of November, 1880, the lady of his choice being Miss Lucy Bason, a daughter of John and Eva (Gabler) Bason, the former a native of Peoria cotmty, Illinois, while the latter was born in Germany. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Hawthorne have been born seven children: Raymond J., who is engaged, in farming in Burns township; Mabel, the wife of William J. Binge, who is also engaged in farming in this township; Rose, a young lady of twenty-three years, now engaged in teaching in her home district; Elmer G., who is twenty years of age and is assisting his father on the farm; Clarence, who died at the age of eighteen months; Edith, who at the age of thirteen years, is attending school; and Edna May, ten years of age, and also in school.

Politically Mr. Hawthorne is a democrat and always takes an active part in local affairs. The confidence which the public places in him is indicated in the fact that for eighteen years he served as township treasurer, while for a similar period he served as township clerk and for nine years filled the office of school director. His fraternal relations connect him with the Elks lodge at Kewanee. The spirit of self-help is the source of all genuine worth in the individual and this truth is abundantly verified in the life of Mr. Hawthorne. Steadily pursuing his way undeterred by the obstacles and difficulties in his path, he is achieving a prosperity of which he has every reason to be proud.

Dr. Robert T. White

Dr. Robert T. White, veterinary surgeon of Annawan and assessor of the township of the same name, is one of the best known men of Henry county and certainly no one stands higher in the estimation of his neighbors. Not only is he an expert veterinarian, but he is an upright, public spirited man, and he and Mrs. White are noted for their generosity to others less fortunate than they. Dr. White was born in Kewanee, Illinois, June 14, i860, a son of Hugh and Elizabeth (Grape) White.

Hugh White, born in Wellsburg, West Virginia, in 1834, was a landowner and importer of heavy draft horses, going abroad ten times for his fine animals. In 1854 he came to Illinois, settling in Peoria, and was an engineer for three or four years but in 1858 he moved to Henry county. For some time he conducted a flour mill in Annawan and then turned his attention to dealing in horses and continued along this line until his demise, March 24, 1906. His remains were interred in Annawan cemetery. Fraternally he was a Mason. Politically he preferred to support the man rather than be confined by party lines, and he served on the town board of Annawan. His wife was bom in Germany in 1832 and survives, making her home with a daughter in Minneapolis. The five children born to them were as follows : Henry R., deceased ; Robert T. ; Mrs. L. H. Bowhan, who lives in Minneapolis; Mrs. Mary E. Tolman, who resides at Red Oak, Iowa; and Mrs. George Squires, who lives at Mineral, Illinois.

Dr. White was educated in the public schools of Annawan, later attending the Chicago Veterinary College, from which he was graduated in 1890. He took a post-graduate course at McKillip's School of Chicago. Having thus completed his studies and fitted himself for his profession, Dr. White located at Annawan, where he has built up a large and flourishing practice that extends all over the county. In connection with his profession, he belongs to the state and national veterinary societies. He also belongs to the Knights of Pythias order. In his political faith he is a democrat, but like his father believes more in worth than party principles. He has served as a member of the village council and president and member of the school board, and at present is assessor of Annawan township.

On September 29, 1881, Dr. White married Miss Ursula Slutz, who was born in Holmes county, Ohio, near Wooster, October 14, 1865, a daughter of Grafton and Sarah (Brown) Slutz.

Her father was born in Wooster, May 8, 1845, and her mother was born in the same place in April, 1846. They were married April 3, 1861, at Massillon, Ohio. Mr. Slutz was a professor in the Wooster schools and an excellent penman, and for thirty-two years after coming to Kewanee he continued teaching, being one of the best known educators in Henry county, and he received the highest salary paid to Annawan's teachers. He also conducted a store at Wethersfield, after which he began canvassing for an eastern firm and was killed by a train, October 19, 1906. His widow survives and has lived with Mrs. White since her husband's demise. They were the parents of five children, namely: Ursula, now Mrs. White; WilHam, who died when eight months old; Harriet, the wife of Rollin Becker, of White Falls, Michigan ; Myron Foster, deceased; and J. Walter, who lives in Carpenterville, Illinois. Mr. Slutz was a strong democrat, as well as a capable man in every particular, coming of a brilliant family. A brother of his is a clergyman in Colorado.

Six children were born to Mr. and Mrs. White, all in Annawan. They are as follows : Florence, born February 16, 1883, married H. H. Treffer of Davenport, Iowa, a ladies' tailor, and she has made two trips to Europe. Mabel, born August 31, 1884, married H. P. Slater of Solon, a druggist, who owns his store. She attended the hospital training school at Geneseo and also at Galesburg, practicing at Belvidere, Illinois, with marked success. Elizabeth, born October 22, 1886, married William Atkinson and they live in Elgin, Illinois, where he is a train dispatcher, but his people reside at London, Canada. Mrs. Atkinson is a graduate of the Annawan schools. Hugh White, born October 24, 1894, is now attending St. Ambrose School at Davenport, Iowa. Harriet, born July 7,

1896, is attending school in Anna wan, as well as studying music with the Catholic Sisters. A born musician, her parents have given her every advantage and are very proud of her talent. The youngest of the family is William, born April I, 1898.

Dr. and Mrs. White have spent the twenty-eight years of their married life in Annawan, twelve in a cottage across the street from their present beautiful home, which is simply elegant in every detail and a gift from his mother to Dr. White. It is the finest in the city and would bear comparison with any home of its size in the country. It is beautifully furnished and thoroughly modern in every respect. The house is set on an elevation from which the well kept lawn rolls down to the street. They keep several horses and have several handsome vehicles.

Mrs. White is a member of the Royal Neighbors but she devotes most of her time outside her home to Christian Science, being an ardent advocate of the teachings of Mrs. Eddy. In her placid face are reflected only good, true, high purposes and lofty thoughts, and through her influence, unconsciously though it may be exerted, many are helped to appreciate the beauty of her life.

In addition to other interests. Dr. White owns four hundred and eighty acres in North Dakota, and as a relaxation from his professional duties he goes there each summer to take part in the threshing. He has friends and patrons all over Henry county, and he is appreciated not only as a professional man but also because of his sterling traits of character. Neither he nor his wife ever turn any one away from their doors empty handed. Whenever help is needed, they can be counted upon to supply it. Dr. White's office is on his home place in a neatly constructed little building, so that he is not long away from his family to whom he is so devoted. As a veterinary, he has few equals in this part of the state, and the success which is his has been well earned.

Frank G. Johnson

Frank G. Johnson, a citizen of Andover township, by birth as well as by choice, must be numbered among that admirable coterie who command the respect which the world instinctively pays to genuine worth. The date of his birth was January 8, 1859, his parents being Peter J. and Sarah (Larson) Johnson. Both father and mother were natives of Sweden and came to this country about 1854 when still quite young and here united their hands and fortunes in marriage. The father spent his life in tilling the fertile soil of Andover township, and he lived until 1897, surviving his wife by twenty years.

Like so many of America's worthiest citizens Frank G. Johnson was reared upon a farm and obtained his education in the public schools. In 1879, when about twenty years of age, he severed home ties and went to Colorado, where he engaged in agriculture for four years. His next move took him still farther west to Seattle, Washington, where he remained two years in the pursuance of various occupations, and then removed to Stockton, California. His residence there continued until 1893, being variously employed. On account of his father's failing health he then returned to Andover and resumed farming, which he has since followed. Broadened by wide experience with men and diverse sections of country he was especially well fitted to take his place as a public-spirited citizen.

Mr, Johnson chose for his wife one of Henry county's daughters, Miss Victoria Young, whose parents, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Young, of Lynn township, are prominent in their community. Their marriage was celebrated March ii, 1903, and three children have been born to them. Urban, the second in order of birth, was accidentally killed by the kick of a horse when only two years of age. A son and a daughter, Marvin C, and Olga, are not yet of school age. The family make their home on a farm adjacent to the village of Andover,

Mr, Johnson is a loyal republican and by no means one of those who play a passive role in matters political. He has frequently represented his township at party conventions, and he is a member of the school board of Andover, a service which he has been called upon to give for a number of years. In 1908 he was elected a member of the county board of supervisors from Andover township and he is a member of the important committee on finance. Both Mr. Johnson and his wife are identified with the Evangelical Lutheran church and are very active in the support of it and its excellent projects. He is preeminently a publicspirited man and believes that public improvements should keep pace with the spirit of the times. He is a friend of good schools and all other movements calculated to advance public morals and commercial prosperity. Having said this it seems almost unnecessary to add that he stands high in the estimation of the people.

William Thomas Stevens

The citizens of Annawan township who do not know William Thomas Stevens are few and scattered, for not only is he one of the prosperous farmers and stockmen of this township but he has played a conspicuous part in local public affairs and in various organizations of a fraternal and social nature. One of Henry county's native sons, he was born in Alba township, December 17, 1863, his parents being Joseph and Catherine (Lamb) Stevens. The family was established in Illinois by Thomas Jefferson Stevens, the grandfather of William Thomas Stevens, who came here in 1838. He bought land at Buda, Bureau county, and there passed the remainder of his days.

His son, Joseph Stevens, the father of our subject, was born in Canterbury, New Hampshire, June 29, 1832, and was about six years of age when his parents made the tedious journey across the mountains and prairies to Illinois. He lived in Bureau county until he became of age, when, with the intention of establishing a home of his own he came to Annawan, Henry county, where he engaged in farming in partnership with his brother-in-law. Later he clerked in a store in the village and then, in 186 1, having married, he secured some land in Alba township, north of town, on which he made his home for the next two years. At the end of that period he bought eighty acres of the farm on which his son, William T., now lives, paying ten dollars an acre for it. Thereon he put up a frame house sixteen by twenty-eight feet, which stood and was habitable, although additions had been made to it from time to time, until April 14, 1880, when it was burned. The loss was partially covered with insurance, however, and Mr. Stevens built another house later, which his son now occupies. In his business he was successful beyond the average, as is indicated by the fact that he added forty-seven acres to his landholdings and was prominent in local affairs, for he was justice of the peace for twenty years and served as road supervisor, school trustee and school director. In every capacity he proved that he was a man to be depended upon, one who held a high standard of ethics, and one who would not sacrifice truth or the public for the sake of personal benefit.

On the 2d of May, 1861, Joseph Stevens wedded Miss Catherine Lamb, who, was born in Selkirk, Scotland, May 21, 1835. She came to America with her parents in 1849, ^^d for a year or two they lived in Boston, Massachusetts, whence they removed to Morris, Illinois, and finally came to Annawan, Henry county, where her father, William Lamb, became the first station agent of the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railway. He held that position until his death, which occurred in 1855. Five children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Stevens and four are still living. Cora Margaret was born in Alba township. William T., the subject, is the second of the family. Gertrude was born in Annawan township and died at the age of two years. Charles J. was born in Annawan, August 8, 1869, is now a conductor on the Rock Island Railway and lives in Annawan. He wedded Miss Grace Harris and they have four children. Lottie B. was born in Annawan township. May 28, 1872, and is now living in the village. She has not married. Mr. Stevens' long and useful life was brought to a close September 18, 1908, and his wife died on the 5th of April following. Their graves were made in Annawan cemetery.

William Thomas Stevens spent his boyhood days on the farm where he now lives and as a pupil in the district school obtained a substantial training in the branches that generally constitute the public school curriculum. He assisted his father in the work in the fields and remained with him until he was about twentyeight years of age, when he assumed the management of the home place, and has since continued to operate it. It embraces one hundred and twenty-seven acres, for the estate has never been divided, and its soil, rich and arable, naturally, is being cultivated by such careful, scientific and progressive methods that bountiful harvests are annually gathered from it. Besides growing the crops best adapted to the character of his land and the climate, Mr. Stevens has also engaged extensively in raising, feeding and shipping stock and has found that this business is a profitable investment also. Industry, perseverance and good management have been the means through which he has attained his success, which is both substantial and gratifying.

On the 26th of January, 1893, in Annawan, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Stevens and Miss Muriel McDermand, who was born in that village, October 6, 1872, and is a daughter of Robert and Elizabeth (Topping) McDermand. The former was a native of Nova Scotia, and when a mere child was taken by his parents to Canada, where he lived until he was almost grown, when he came to Illinois. In Geneseo, Henry county, he was married to Miss Elizabeth Topping, who was a native of Canada but had resided in Geneseo since she was twelve. She was Mr. McDermand's second wife and became the mother of the following children: one who died in infancy; Ernest, who wedded Miss Anna Swanger and lives in North Dakota, where he is rearing their three children; Muriel, who is Mrs. Stevens; Blanche, who is the wife of James Smith, of Cashmere, Washington; Prudence, the wife of Leroy Proper, who lives at East Lake, Michigan, and is the mother of three children: James William, who married Ursula Eyre and lives at Tiskilwa, Illinois, where he is rearing his three children ; and Ella, who is the widow of Wihiam J. Johnston, of Toulon, Illinois, and the mother of one child. Mr. and Mrs. McDermand were residents of Annawan for a long period.

In Mr. and Mrs. Stevens' family there are seven children, namely: Lyman, who was born in Annawan, October 2'], 1893; Morrill, who was born May 13, 1895, and passed away at the age of two and one-half years; Lottie, born February 19, 1897; Joseph, who was born September 16, 1898, and died in infancy; John, November 6, 1901 ; Charles, April 14, 1904; and Catherine, November 29, 1907.

Politically ]\Ir. Stevens has always endorsed the democratic party and cast his first presidential ballot for Grover Cleveland in 1888. A man of liberal views he has rendered the township valuable service as school director and school trustee, and as highway commissioner he exerted his influence toward improving the roads of this section of the county. In the several fraternal organizations in this locality he has also played a conspicuous part, for he belongs to Annawan Camp, No. 117, M. W. A., has been a Knight of Pythias and with his wife belongs to the Royal Neighbors of Annawan. In the first mentioned society he has filled several offices of the local camp, of which he has been venerable consul, and which he represented at the head camp in 1897. He enjoys the friendship of many whose names are not included on the roll call of these societies, for his life, based upon substantial principles of upright manhood, is one which commands general respect, and in the highest degree, from those who have known him from boyhood.

John Curran

Andover township acknowledges itself a debtor in the highest sense to County Donegal, Ireland, for one of its most valuable citizens. There in August, 1844, was born John Curran, his parents being William and Celia (McFadden) Curran. These worthy people lived and died in their native country, and John Curran must have been a youth of unusual pluck, for in the spring of 1861, when only seventeen years of age, he started out as a soldier of fortune, leaving the parental roof to cross the seas to America. He remained throughout the summer in Philadelphia, but in the fall journeyed to Cambridge, Illinois, where a brother, Barnard, and a sister, Ellen, had preceded him. The sister is still a resident of Henry county, but the brother went west with the opening of the country and is now a citizen of Oklahoma. After his arrival in Henry county, Mr. Curran was for some years engaged in farm work by the month. For five years after his marriage in 1870 he devoted his energies to the cultivation of a tract of land in Western township and in 1876 took possession of his present farm in

Andover township. Starting with no capital whatever except that valuable adjunct, a determination to succeed, he exercised the strictest economy and bought land until he is now the owner of two hundred and two splendid acres, all well improved and cultivated.

On December i6, 1870, Mr. Curran was united in marriage to Miss Carrie S. Linn, a daughter of Samuel and Christine Linn, who came from Sweden in the early '50s. Mr. Linn became a prosperous farmer, but both he and his wife have passed to their reward. To Mr. and Mrs. Curran have been born five children: Mary E., now Mrs. Charles Holtman, of Andover township ; John L., a resident of Henry county; and Lenore, Esther and Daniel F., at home.

Mr. and Mrs. Curran and their children are members of the Catholic church, and exercise an influence for good in the community. In politics Mr. Curran is democratic, but though interested in public matters has never played an active part in their management, except that for several years he gave his services as a member of the township school board. He is the embodiment of genuine Irish wit and keenness, with a lively appreciation of the foibles of human nature. In addition to this quality, which adds to his attractiveness, he is everywhere regarded as a man of honor and integrity, a robust exponent of what is best among men. In short the life of Mr. Curran in its every aspect is worthy of emulation.

Gus J. Jacobson

Gus J. Jacobson, a well known agriculturist of Hanna township, was born on a farm near Christinehamn, Sweden, December 31, 1861, and is a son of Peter and Emma Frederica (Nelson) Jacobson. The father came to America about 1867, made his way to Illinois and in the mines at Kewanee found employment. For two years he toiled diligently and by strict economy was able to send the money to Sweden which would bring his wife and six children to this country. The family located in Kewanee and then two years later removed to Cleveland, Hanna township, where for several years the father continued to mine coal. Then he rented some land from Howard Deming and engaged in farming, removing subsequently to Phenix township, where he remained two years, and later to Colona township, where he continued to operate a rented farm. He subsequently bought eighty acres in the last mentioned township and has there since made his home.

Gus J. Jacobson received but a limited education for he was early called upon to assist in the work of the farm. At the age of twenty-one he undertook to make his own way in the world. For one season he remained at home in the employ of his father and then engaged in mining both in this county and in Fulton. He became a skilled and industrious workman and was given the position of weigher in both mines. In 1898 Mr. Jacobson purchased the farm on which he now lives. It embraces one hundred and twenty acres, on section 33, Hanna township, and, though considered improved when he bought it, has greatly increased in value in the eleven years it has been in his possession. This is but natural for he has put up a number of good buildings, has remodeled and improved those already standing, and by methodical cultivation has enhanced the fertility of the soil.

On the I St of October, 1887, Mr. Jacobson wedded Miss Albertina Eleanora Stohl, of Hanna township. She was born near Gardner, Grundy county, Illinois, and is the daughter of John M. and Mary Stohl. Five children have been born of this union: Roy, William, Verne, Gertrude and May. Mr. Jacobson has always given his support to the candidates of the republican party, in whose platform he sincerely believes, and has always taken a vital interest in pubHc affairs. While he was a resident of Cable, Mercer county, he served on the village board and also as a school director. When he removed to Sherrard the interest he evinced in local matters was rewarded by his election to the position of village trustee. In the spring of 1908 he was elected supervisor of Hanna township and appointed to the committee on county accounts. Fraternally he is connected with the Masons and belongs to the lodge at Colona, in which he has served as senior deacon and senior warden, and in which he held the chair of worshipful master for three years. On the occasion of the holding of the Grand Lodge in Chicago he represented his Colona brethren and has frequently been accorded other marks of their esteem. The lodge of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows of Colona also include him upon their roll-call, and with Mrs. Jacobson he belongs to the Eastern Star and to the Daughters of Rebekah. A man who has prospered in his own affairs, he has won the respect and confidence of all who have come in contact with him, and has gained the esteem of those who know him more intimately as a friend.

Henry W. Nelson

Where one finds the Swedish element largely assimilated, one is apt to find an intelligent, upright, prosperous community and this is particularly true of Lynn township. Henry W. Nelson, born May 19, 1866, is of Swedish stock, his parents, Nels and Anna Sophia (Johnson) Olson, having come to America from Sweden in 1864 as young married people with one child. They made their way westward to Illinois and settled in Lynn township, Henry county, where some relatives had preceded them. The father made his livelihood in agriculture. In his family were eight children, some of whom died in infancy. Josephine is now Mrs. W. H. Gay, of Los Angeles, California; Henry W. is the subject of the sketch; Theodore died in August, 1903 ; and Ida is now the wife of Theodore Wangstrom, of Clover township. The father was a loyal republican and interested in public affairs, and he and his wife were faithful supporters of the Lutheran church. His death, which occurred January 16, 1895, deprived the community of a citizen of high standing. His widow survived him until September 26, 1909, both of them being buried in the Andover cemetery.

Henry W. Nelson enjoyed the wholesome advantages peculiar to country life, attending the Andover schools in the winter months and in the summer time working upon the farm. In the summer of 1885 he left the parental roof and went to McPherson, Kansas, where he was engaged as the foreman of a large farm. When the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railway was built from Belleville, Kansas, to Colorado Springs, Mr. Nelson secured employment on the construction work. Finally he began to think of returning to Illinois, but deferred his return about two months in order to cast his first vote for president, which he gave to

Benjamin Harrison. Upon his return to Andover township he resumed his agricultural activities. In 1891 he removed to an excellent farm in Lynn township (section 12, range i, township 15) and remained there for seventeen years, in the enjoyment of much material prosperity. In 1908 he decided upon the important step of changing his location and took up his residence upon his present property, one and one-fourth miles west of Lynn Center, the land being known as the George B. Pillsbury farm. Here he engages in general farming, paying special attention to the breeding and feeding of cattle and hogs. By this change Mr. Nelson finds himself lord of a fair domain of six hundred and thirty-two fertile, well cultivated acres.

On February 21, 1893, some four years after his return from Kansas, Mr. Nelson was united in marriage to Miss Amanda Johnson, a daughter of Charles P. and Charlotte (Anderson) Johnson, Swedish people who came to the United States in 1864. The father was a farmer and at one time a large landowner and very prosperous. He died in January, 1901, and his widow, who survives him, makes her home with Mr. Nelson and his wife. Seven children have come to bless the Nelson home, these being Hazel I., Rachel O. J., Floyd H., Elva Leona, Ervin W., Doris Emogene and Beatrice Eveline.

Mr. Nelson is a stanch republican and a decidedly active one. His record furnishes eloquent proof of the high regard in which he is held by his fellov/men. He is a member of the republican central committee, on which he has served for several years; he has been a delegate to county, district and state conventions; he has served on the election board for six years; from 1905 until 1906 he was presiding judge; in 1906 he was made township clerk and each year since has been reelected ; he was township collector in 1900 ; and served seven years on the school board, his connection with it only being severed upon his removal from Lynn township. He is a valued member of Sherman Lodge, No. 535, A. F. & A. M., at Orion, and has filled some of the offices. Since 1894 he has been a member of the Modern Woodmen of America at Andover. The entire family are active in church work, holding membership in the Lutheran church at Andover. Mr. Nelson may be counted upon always to give his support to public improvements and to all measures tending to the general good. Having the interest of society at heart, he is a student of conditions and remedies. A "pusher" in every sense of the word, his influence is always actively at work for whatever he believes is right and as actively at work against whatever he believes to be wrong.

Oscar F. Glenn

Oscar F. Glenn, a farmer, stock raiser and feeder, whose home is on section 12, Western township, where he operates two hundred and forty acres belonging to J. W. Stearns, of Orion, is one of the successful younger agriculturists of his section of the county. He is descended from a race of men who not only braved the hardships of the pioneering days but were eager to give their lives in the support of the Union when it was in need of the loyalty of every son. However, he is the only member of the family, bearing the name, who is now living here, where his great-uncle, James Glenn, is said to have been the first man to make a plow and turn a furrow in Henry county. He was born in the city of Hannibal, Missouri, January i, 1873, and is a son of Thomas W. and Mary (Holshue) Glenn. One of the stories his father enjoys telling to this day, is how at the age of fifteen or sixteen, no older, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Twenty-sixth Illinois Infantry, determined that despite his youth he would assist in winning some battles for the nation which had been formed in the name of freedom. His service lasted three years. It was an incident in his childhood, and as the years rolled by seemed ever farther from the realities of life which accosted him daily in his endeavors to make a home for himself and his family. When his son Oscar was about three years of age, he brought his family to Henry county, locating in Colona township, where he had procured a tract of one hundred and twenty acres. It remained his home for upward of twelve years, when he took his wife and children to Dawson county, Nebraska. At first he secured only one hundred and sixty acres, but in the course of years he became the owner of about twelve hundred acres in that state, which has remained his home to the present, the place of his residence being the town of Plattsmouth.

Oscar F. Glenn, who was three years old when his parents came to Illinois, grew to manhood upon the farm in Colona township, receiving a fair education in the public schools of his district. He was about eighteen when his father went to Nebraska and three years later he began his own career as a farmer in that state. One season's experience upon a tract of land he rented from his father sufficed to discourage him from trying to make his fortune there, for the crops failed entirely and he was compelled to start at the beginning again. Accordingly he returned to Henry county, found employment as a farm hand, and in the course of three years, having saved his wages carefully, he amassed a sum sufficient to warrant his renting another tract of land. For a time he lived in Edford township, then spent two years in Osco township, and finally in 1902 removed to the place on now lives. His operations here have met with pronounced success, so that in 1908 he was able to go to Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada, where he purchased two hundred and sixty-six acres, paying at the rate of fifteen dollars per acre.

In Osco township, October i, 1899, Mr. Glenn wedded Miss Maude Chamberlain, a daughter of Nathan V. and Margaret J. (Calhoun) Chamberlain. The former was a native of Missouri, and through his grandmother, who belonged to the Allen family, was a descendant of Ethan Allen, famous in the annals of the Revolutionary war. He came to Henry county with his parents shortly after the close of the Civil war, and here met the woman who, later became his wife. She, Miss Margaret J. Calhoun, before her marriage, was born in Perry county, Pennsylvania, and came to Henry county, Illinois, with her parents after the culmination of hostilities between north and south. In that struggle her brother, W. F. Calhoun, had participated, having served throughout the four years, and received the rank of sergeant in recognition of his valiant deeds. Her son, Allen Dill Chamberlain, was also a soldier, for he enlisted in the army that was recruited for the Spanish war, being enrolled as a member of Company B, Sixth Illinois Infantry. He died after the close of the struggle in Evansville, Indiana.

Mrs. Glenn was born in Geneseo, July 5, 1878, and grew to maturity in this county, in whose public schools she received a fair education. At the time of her marriage she was making her home with a sister, Mrs, W. E. Weidlein, of Osco township. Our subject and his wife have three children: Gladys Mary, who was born in Edford township, January 6, 1901 ; Doris Elizabeth, born in Western township, July 29, 1907 ; and Grace Gretchen, also bom in Western township, May 16, 1909.

Mr. Glenn has espoused the cause of the republican party but has evinced no desire to participate in the pubHc life of the township. His work, however, and the fair name and success which he is rapidly winning for himself entitles him to the respect and good will of his fellow citizens which he now enjoys.

Benjamin F. Washburn

The name of Washburn is well known and honored in Colona township where the family has been prominent in agricultural circles since early pioneer times, and Benjamin F. Washburn, of this review, has made a most creditable record that has at all times been in harmony with the upright and honorable methods which have ever characterized the business dealings of the representatives of the name. His birth occurred on his father's farm in this township, in the same locality where he now makes his home, on the 28th of February, 1853, his parents being Abisha and Isabella (Clapp) Washburn. An extended and complete history of the family will be found on another page of this volume under the name of George Washburn, giving full information concerning the active and helpful part which representatives of the name have taken in the transformation and development of the district since an early date in the pioneer history of the county.

Amid the scenes and environments of rural life Benjamin F. Washburn spent the period of his boyhood and youth, acquiring his education in the district schools of Colona township. His educational advantages, however, were somewhat limited, for as soon as he was old enough to handle a team his attendance at school was confined to a few weeks during the winter months, for from early spring planting until late autumn harvest he was busily engaged in the work of the fields, assisting in the operation of the home farm. He thus acquired a practical and comprehensive knowledge of the science of farming that later proved of great value to him in the conduct of his own business interests. He remained at home giving his father the benefit of his aid until he attained man's estate, when he took up agriculture on his own account, since which time he has continued to make it his life work. He now owns a highly cultivated farm of one hundred and sixty acres upon which he makes his home, the place being equipped with a fine modem residence, substantial barns and outbuildings and all of the conveniences and accessories that go to make up a model farm of the twentieth century. He also is the owner of an equally well improved tract of one hundred and sixty acres in Ne^ braska, which is the source of gratifying annual revenue. In connection with his general farming pursuits he devotes considerable time and attention to his stockraising interests and both branches under his careful and wise management are proving most remunerative.

In November, 1873, Mr. Washburn was united in marriage to Miss Maria Williams, a daughter of William A. and Harriet (Anderson) Williams. The father is descended from Welsh ancestry while the mother is of Scotch descent. They came from Wisconsin to Henry county at a very early date, being numbered among the early pioneers of this district. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Washburn were born six children, namely: Jessie, the wife of George Montgomery, of Colona township; Mabel, who married Mike Sharp, also of this township; Arthur and Suella, the widow of Manville Jones, at home ; Mary, who married Wesley Jones and resides in Colona township; and Sadie, who is still under the parental roof. In November, 1880, the wife and mother was called to her final rest, and on the nth of September, 1895, Mr. Washburn was again united in marriage, his second union being with Miss Agnes Carson, a daughter of David and Jean Carson, of Western township. The Carson family are of Scotch origin, coming from Scotland to America in 1852, the home first being established in Yonkers, New York, where they resided for nine years, when the daughter Agnes was born. The family then came west to Henry county in 1861, locating in Western township, where Mr. Carson became a prosperous farmer and a very influential and prominent citizen. The family was especially interested in educational matters, three of the daughters having been at one time popular and progressive teachers in the schools of Henry county. Mrs. Washburn taught school for six years prior to her marriage, and was a very capable and successful instructor. She is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mrs. Carson passed away on the 4th of January, 1902, and is still survived by her husband, who makes his home in Western township.

Mr. Washburn's political views are in accord with the principles of the democratic party and he served the township as road commissioner for a number of years. He is now filling the office of township assessor and has for many years been a member of the district school board. He has ever been a public-spirited citizen, deeply interested in all matters involving the general welfare, and is a strong advocate of public reform and improvement along lines in keeping with the progressive spirit of the age. His career has ever been such as to warrant the trust of the business world, for he has ever conducted all transactions according to the strictest principles of honor and integrity, and he enjoys the unqualified respect and confidence of his friends and neighbors, who know him as an honorable and upright gentleman and a true and loyal citizen.

Francis Marion Hay

Although he has passed the seventy-fifth milestone on life's journey Francis Marion Hay still retains active supervision of his agricultural interests. He owns a fine farm of three hundred and eighty acres on sections i and 12, Annawan township, on which he lives, and also a tract of one hundred and thirty-three acres on section 4, and his methods of cultivation are so thorough and his business is conducted with such good judgment that he is numbered among the more prosperous farmers of Henry county. Nor is his reputation confined by county lines.

but he is widely known through the state, not only for the excellence of his dairy products, but also for the exemplary character of his life. He was bom in Saluda township, Jefferson county, Indiana, January 22, 1833, a son of Thomas and Sarah (Maiden) Hay. The former was born on a farm in the vicinity of Edinburgh, Scotland, October 26, 1800, and was a lad of eleven when his parents joined a company of about a hundred who emigrated to America. They landed at New York, whence they went to Philadelphia, thence to Pittsburg, where they secured a flat boat and floated down the river to Hanover, Indiana. There they disembarked and William Hay, the grandfather of F. M. Hay, secured a tract of land from the government, which remained his home during the rest of his life. He died at the advanced age of eighty-six years.

Thomas Hay, the father of F. M. Hay, grew to manhood upon the homestead in Jefferson county, Indiana, and there was married to Miss Sarah Maiden. In 1854 he came to Annawan on a visit, and despite the fact that it was the year of the great snow storm he was so favorably impressed with the country that in 1855 he returned, bringing his family with him, and bought some land on section 13, Annawan township. Thereon he lived the rest of his life, save for two years he spent in the village of Annawan, and his active years were busily occupied with agricultural pursuits, wherefrom he derived a gratifying success.

Francis Marion Hay lived in the township of his birth until he reached maturity, obtaining such an education as the district schools of his locality afforded at that time. As a boy he learned the use of tools and before he became twenty had become skillful at carpentering, so that he was able to secure bridge work on the Jeffersonville and Indianapolis Railroad and which is now part of the Big Four. In 1854 he came by rail to Henry county, while his father drove a few horses overland, intending to sell them after he arrived, and here again engaged in carpentering. A couple of years later he turned his attention to farming, for he had traded some raw land he had entered from the government in Benton county, Iowa, for forty acres in Annawan township, Henry county. That tract was the nucleus about which later accretions were made until the home farm comprised two hundred and ten acres, for a large measure of success attended Mr. Hay's labors and as he saw opportunity he put his money in that safest of all investments, real estate. He engaged in general farming, but at one time he was extensively engaged in dairying, frequently milking fifty cows daily. He had only Jersey cattle in his herd, and the butter he made was justly celebrated for its quality, receiving the gold prize at the union dairy fair held at Milwaukee. Now this business is not carried on on as extensive a scale, although the excellence of the dairy products is still maintained.

On Thanksgiving day, November 26, 1868, in Annawan township, Mr. Hay was married to Miss Hannah A. Tower, a native of New York. Her parents, Samuel Nelson and Hannah (Lewis) Tower, left the east in 1852, and coming west located in McHenry county, Illinois, where Mr. Tower engaged in farming and taught music. Later he became superintendent of the Washingtonian Home, in Chicago, but in 1865 came to Henry county, where he again followed agricultural pursuits and taught music. His daughter, Mrs. Hay, inherited some of his talent along musical lines and enjoyed special training in the art.

Mr. and Mrs. Hay have three children. Mark, who was born September 28, 1869, after leaving the country schools, took a short course in Bryant & Stratton Business College, Chicago, and then studied architecture at the University of Illinois. For a time he was employed by the board of education of Chicago, but after the earthquake in San Francisco, California, believing that there were larger opportunities there, he removed to that city, where he is still engaged in his profession as architect. He has not married. Louis M., who was born January 16, 1872, received a good education, and is now the owner of eighty acres on section I, this township, where he is carrying on farming. Cranston Roy was born August 16, 1874, and died, unmarried, December 13, 1907.

Mr. Hay was reared a democrat, but was converted to republicanism even before he was able to vote and when he cast his first ballot it was for John C. Fremont, who was that party's candidate in 1856. Now, however, he holds himself independent of party ties, for he takes a keen interest in political questions and after investigation gives his support to the cause he believes to be right. It was in conformance with his ideas of citizenship that he accepted the positions of road commissioner and school director, which he filled so acceptably, for while he does not seek office, he believes it the duty of capable men to give some of their time for the benefit of their fellow citizens. He has passed the Psalmist's allotted span of three score and ten, and his life record is honorable and may well cause one to pause and consider and then emulate, for the success which the years have chronicled has been won through noble endeavor, not through taking advantage of the misfortunes of others. Indeed Mr. Hay says, and he may well be proud of the fact, that he has never been a party to any fight, nor has he ever witnessed one. Quietly and unobtrusively he has done his duty and the day's work, and the worldly prosperity which has been vouchsafed to him and the sincere esteem of his fellows, is merited in a high degree.

Charles M. Williams

Charles M. Williams, a retired agriculturist residing in Galva, was born at Bentonville, Fayette county, Indiana, on the 6th of March, 1843, his parents being Lyman and Susan (Dickey) Williams, likewise natives of Fayette county, Indiana. The paternal grandfather, Charles Williams, whose birth occurred in New- York, was of Welsh descent. He participated in the war of 1812 and followed both farming and carpentering during his active business career. The maternal grandfather of our subject was William Dickey, a native of Kentucky and a farmer by occupation. In early manhood he wedded Miss Jane Houston, by whom he had eight children, four sons and four daughters. Both he and his wife Hved to attain a ripe old age.

Lyman Williams, the father of Charles M. Williams, followed the carpenter's trade in early manhood but after his marriage turned his attention to general agricultural pursuits. In 1856 he removed to Stark county, Illinois, taking up his abode two miles northeast of La Fayette. The last few years of his life were spent in La Fayette, where he passed away in 1905, when eighty-six years of age.

He had survived his wife for almost three decades, her demise having occurred in 1876 when she was fifty-one years of age. Both Mr. and Mrs. Lyman Williams were devoted and consistent members of the Christian church. Their family numbered ten children, four sons and six daughters, seven of whom are still living, namely: Charles M., of this review; Lydia A., the wife of Michael N. Emery; John A.; Sarah E., the wife of Herbert Baker; William J.; Ella E. ; and Annie B., the wife of Stephen White.

Charles M. Williams was a lad of about fourteen years when he accompanied his parents on their removal to this state. He was reared on his father's farm and remained under the parental roof until he had attained his majority, pursuing his education in the district schools and later in the public schools of Galva. In May, 1864, he enlisted for service in the Civil war as a member of the One Hundred and Twelfth Illinois Volunteer Infantry but was prevented from going to the front on account of sickness. In October, 1864, he joined Company G of the One Hundred and Thirty-second Illinois Volunteer Infantry and loyally fought for the interests of the Union until its supremacy had been established. After the close of hostilities he returned to Stark county and for a number of years was engaged in the operation of a rented farm. In 1871 he made his way to Kansas, purchasing two hundred and twenty acres of land in Miami county, that state, where he remained until February, 1876. He then returned to Illinois and took up his abode on a farm two and a half miles east of Galva, the property belonging to his father. Subsequently he bought forty acres adjoining and in 1901 purchased one of his father's farms of eighty acres, residing thereon until January, 1908, He then disposed of the property and came to Galva, where he purchased a beautiful and commodious residence and after living there a short time, he again moved just north of the city limits. Through his carefully directed and untiring labors as an agriculturist he accumulated the competence that now enables him to live retired in the enjoyment of the fruits of his former toil.

On the 15th of September, 1867, Mr. Williams was united in marriage to Miss Lucy L. Cundiff, whose birth occurred in Galena, Illinois, in 1846, her parents being Richard and Mary (Jackson) Cundiff, natives of Virginia and Kentucky respectively. They were numbered among the early settlers of Jo Daviess county, Illinois. Richard Cundiff, who was a soldier in the Black Hawk war, passed away in the year 1853. His wife lived to be eighty-eight years of age. They had a family of eleven children, six of whom still survive, namely: Thomas; Sarah; Mary, the wife of Miles Bennett, of Savanna, Illinois ; Mrs. Williams ; Marcia, the wife of C. L. Canning; and Richard Archibald. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Williams have been born seven children, the record of whom is as follows. Frank W., who has been a bookkeeper in Peoria for about eighteen years, wedded Miss Clara Belle Walkley, who died in June, 1907, leaving a daughter, Pearl Blanche Williams. Frank W. Williams is first lieutenant of Company G, Illinois National Guards, of which he has been a member for eleven years. Clarence B., likewise a resident of Peoria, married Miss Nellie Watson. Elmer L. passed away when three years of age. Susie B. is at home. Perry E., living in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, married Miss Lorena Wilson, by whom he has a daughter, Ruth Lorena. George Herbert died at the age of nine months. Daisy M. passed away when eight years of age.

Mr. Williams gives his political allegiance to the men and measures of the republican party and has served as school director for many years, the cause of education finding in him a stalwart champion. He belongs to Galva Post, G. A. R., and both he and his wife hold membership in the Methodist church, in the work of which they take an active and helpful interest. They are well known and highly esteemed throughout the community as people of genuine personal worth and the hospitality of the best homes is freely accorded them.

George William Ferguson

The broad expanse of fields on section ii, Western township, which comprise the home place of George William Ferguson, constitute but a small part of the large landholdings which are a patent indication of the manner in which he has followed his vocation as a tiller of the soil. Industrious and hardworking to a high degree, frugal and a good manager, he has let slip few, if any opportunities that would contribute to his advancement along his chosen line of work.

He was born in Adams county, Illinois, June i8, 1847, a son of Robert C. and Nancy (Wilson) Ferguson. The father was born on a farm near Steubenville, Ohio, in 1816, his parents being Isaac and Elizabeth (Herron) Ferguson, who crossed the Atlantic and settled in Ohio. When Robert C. Ferguson reached young manhood he and a brother John came to Illinois, settling in Adams county, where he procured a tract of land and married. In 1850, becoming infected with the gold fever, he, with his older brothers, Henry and John, started overland to California. Another brother, Vincent, had gone there the year before, and hia accounts of the opportunities had helped to fire the ambitions of the others, who, however, returned to their Illinois home in 185 1, richer by little more than experience as a result of their western trip. On the homeward journey they went by water to Panama, which they crossed, and from there proceeded to Illinois. Vincent Ferguson, however, who had been the first to go to the gold country, remained several years after the departure of his brothers, but he too eventually came back to Illinois, where the last years of his life were spent. In 1863 Robert C. Ferguson, the father of our subject, located in Western township, where he purchased two hundred and forty acres of land, all in one farm, for which he paid at the rate of twelve dollars and a half an acre. He put up a frame house, eighteen by twenty-four feet, now incorporated in the home in which his son lives. The latter has also fallen heir to the farm which the older man secured here.

Four children were born to Robert C. Ferguson and his wife. James Theodore, who was born in 1844, received a fair common school education and at the outbreak of the Civil war enlisted in Company E, Eighteenth Illinois Volunteer Infantry. He had served about nine months when he was taken ill and died in the hospital at Pine Bluff, Arkansas. George W., the subject of this sketch, is the second of the family. Augusta died at the age of three. Harriet became the wife of Luman Hitchcock of Oconee, Nebraska, and they have five children. In his political views, the father was a republican, and during the years of his

As a boy George W. Ferguson attended the common schools, later becoming a pupil in a select school in his vicinity, but as his father was in poor health he early in life assumed some of the responsibilities of the management of the farm. After the latter's death he bought his personal property and divided the farm, which has remained his home continuously since. He has, however, in the course of years, as success accompanied his efforts, added extensively to it and purcased other tracts until he is now the owner of eight hundred and eighty-seven acres, divided into three farms. About 1894 he purchased a number of shares in the Farmers Bank of Orion, and became its first president, and later, when it was renamed and reorganized under the surveilance of the state, he was made one of its board of directors. About the same time he became connected with the Orion State Bank, of which he has been vice president and a director ever since its organization, for the sound financial position he occupies in the community and the business acumen, integrity and uprightness which have marked his life, make him a man in whom the people would naturally place confidence.

In Osco township, January 21, 1872, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Ferguson and Miss Inez E. Hitchcock, a daughter of Walker Lyon and Eliza J. (Harris) Hitchcock. She was born in Peoria county, Illinois, February 14, 1852, and came to Henry county with her parents in 1865. Six children have been born of this union : Grace F. became the wife of Mahlon Lloyd Love and they have three children - Mahlon Lloyd, Jr., who is now eleven years of age, Richard Raeburn and William Seward. Mr. Love died August 13, 1902, and his widow lives upon the Lloyd homestead in this township. Roy, the second child, receives extended mention in another part of this work. Helen F. married Bert E. McLaughlin, an attorney at Galesburg. Harry E. is also accorded space in another part of this volume. Harriet C. was graduated from the high school in Galesburg with the class of 1904. Alice completed the high school course in 1906 and is now a sophomore in Knox College.

Mr. Ferguson cast his first presidential ballot for Grant in 1868, and has since given his unqualified support to the candidates of the republican party. He has, however, taken but small part in the local government, although he served as highway commissioner for six years. Yet despite the fact that he has steadily refused public office, the record of his life is one which is of the highest type of efficient citizenship.