Henry County, Illinois - The whole text, 1910 (part 30 of 32)

William Lowes, the father of our subject, became a coal miner in England and in 1869 crossed the Atlantic to America, settling in Cleveland, Illinois, where he followed the same pursuit. Later he removed to Munson township, Henry county, where for a short time he operated a mine of his own and later he conducted a mine in Atkinson township. In 1881 he removed to Geneseo where he entered upon the manufacture of brick and tile in partnership with his brotherin-law, John Mowbray, with whom he was associated for many years. He was recognized as one of the prominent representatives of industrial life in this locality and his enterprise and energy constitute the salient features in the success which he won. He served as supervisor for several years and was active in community interests, his support being given to many measures for the general good. He died September 17, 1908, at the age of sixty-three years and is still survived by his widow. They were the parents of five sons and a daughter, of whom three have passed away. The others are : William, now a resident of Sedgwick, Colorado; Elizabeth, the wife of Frank W. Sherman, also of Sedgwick; and Forrest M.

The last named has spent his entire life in Henry county, and has lived in Geneseo since 1881, with the exception of a few years passed in Chicago. He was graduated from the Geneseo high school with the class of 1893 and then entered the state university of Illinois at Champaign, where he spent two years. Subsequently he matriculated in the Northwestern Law School at Chicago, from which he was graduated with the class of 1897. The same year he was admitted to practice in the state and federal courts. While attending the university he played third baseman on the baseball team and was greatly interested in athletics. Following his graduation he entered the law office of ex-United States District Attorney Thomas E. Milchrist, of Chicago, with whom he remained for two years thus putting his theoretical training to practical test. In 1899 he opened a law office in Geneseo, where he practiced continuously since. He prepares his cases with precision and care, his analysis is sound, his reasoning logical and his deductions are usually correct. He is also known in industrial circles as manager of the brick and tile business which was formerly conducted by his father and uncle, both of whom are now deceased.

Mr. Lowes attends the Unitarian church and belongs to Stewart Lodge, No. 92, F. & A. M., and to Geneseo Chapter, No. 12, R. A. M. He belongs also to the Sigma Chi, a college fraternity. His political endorsement has been given to the republican party since age conferred upon him the right of franchise and he served for two years as police magistrate in Geneseo. He finds his chief source of recreation in baseball and other athletic interests and made somewhat of a reputation in the former, both at Champaign and while in Chicago. He is an alert, energetic young man, who quickly notes and eagerly grabs every opportunity that is presented and in professional circles he is making continuous and substantial advance.

Alphonsus Depoorter

The Rev. Alphonsus Depoorter, one of the most distinguished and beloved priests of the Catholic clergy, and for nine years before his untimely death rector of the parish of Atkinson, passed away March 22, 1909, at Santa Rosa Infirmary, San Antonio, Texas. He was born August i, 1872, at Poucques, Belgium, a son of Ivo and Louise (Van Landeghem) Depoorter, both natives of

Belgium, where the father was born June 24, 1827, and the mother in 1835. His mother died in 1890, aged fifty-five years, and is buried in her native land. The father came to America in 1893, and in 1899 he located in Henry county, Illinois, dying in Atkinson, in 1906, and is buried there, his son Father Depoorter reading high mass at his funeral services. He and his excellent wife had a large family, there being nine still living : Mary, a sister in a Belgian convent ; Alberic, a resident of Molina, Illinois ; Emma, who lives in Atkinson and during her brother's pastorate here was his housekeeper ; Medard, a farmer of Atkinson township; Camille, also a nun in Belgium; Philipine who married Joseph Ballweg, of Nebraska; the late Father Depoorter; Aloysius, who lives in Annawan, Illinois ; Hortense, a resident of Davenport, Iowa ; and Helen, who married Frank Weibel, of Nebraska.

Father Depoorter attended the public schools of Belgium until he was about ten years old, when he entered the college of Thielt, Belgium, graduating from there to go to the Rousselaere College, and after graduation from the latter school he entered the seminary of Bruges. From this he went to the great college of Louvair, Belgium, where he acquired a knowledge of English. His college course embraced eleven years, and on April 3, 1897, he was ordained in Belgium. Coming to America afterwards, he was appointed assistant to Father Crowe at Kewanee. After four months he was made pastor in charge of the church at Annawan, and in 1900 he was sent to Atkinson, where he continued throughout the remainder of his brief life. He also gave instruction, being the head of a remarkably good school. The new church at Atkinson was just completed when Father Depoorter came to the parish and through his efforts it was freed from the burden of debt. In 1907 he built St. Anthony's school, a structure of pressed brick, that is modern in every particular. Chairman of the building committee, he had everything in charge and never spared himself in this or any other particular. He had raised the money and was attending to its equipment when sickness overtook him and he never recovered. However, his work remains as a monument to his selfsacrificing life and noble spirit. There were three Sisters in the parochial school when Father Depoorter took charge, and now there are six of the Benedictine order.

While Father Depoorter always voted for the man he deemed best fitted for the office, he probably leaned more toward the democratic party. He belonged to the Catholic Order of Foresters of St. Anthony's Court and was its spiritual advisor, as well as of the Knights of Columbus. Possessed of a broad and liberal spirit, he exerted a wide influence for good and had friends throughout the entire county regardless of religious convictions. In 1908 he was stricken with nervous prostration from the effects of overwork on the school building, and while out on an automobile ride to Geneseo, in September, 1907, he had the misfortune to meet with a serious accident, breaking his collarbone. This proved to be a serious setback and finally he was induced to go to San Antonia, Texas, for a month. While there in Santa Rosa Infirmary, he died in March, 1909, attended by his devoted sister. Miss Emma Depoorter, and his remains were taken back to Atkinson for interment.

The funeral of Father Depoorter was the largest Henry county has ever known and the most imposing, over fifty priests with the bishop attending to do honor to this distinguished and good man. Thousands of those to whom he had given his friendship gathered, stricken with grief at their loss. CathoHc and Protestant stood side by side and mingled their tears. It is impossible to do justice to the magnificent services presided over by Bishop O'Reilly in this brief space. Father Foley and Father Wolters directed the arrangements ; Father Julius Devos preached in Belgian on the life of the young priest both in Belgium and here, declaring he was an honor to his family and the glory of his people, as well as the blessing of his parish. Bishop O'Reilly delivered a touching tribute to his faithful worker taken from his charge by death, speaking in English. Special resolutions were adopted by the business and professional men of Atkinson regarding his death, expressing their appreciation of his Hfe and work.

Many of the leading people of Atkinson attended, and the fraternal orders with which he was associated, attended in full regalia. St. Malachy's congregation turned out in a body, prostrated with grief. The ladies of the Atkinson Altar Society donated the vault in which lie the mortal remains of Father Depoorter, which is visited daily by the many whom he helped in trouble or adversity.

Father Depoorter has passed from this mortal sphere after a too brief period here, and yet in the thirty-six years he was here he accomplished much more than those who have more than double that number to their credit. A lover of men, a worker who loved his people, he learned from direct contact with the sources of contemporary knowledge and of men, and his associates in the church, the school, the religious and fraternal societies and at large lost the comradeship of a noble soul. Any priest might be proud of such a career as that of Father Depoorter, and his is a character to remember with affectionate appreciation. He had conspicuous ability for his calling, for all in his heart were his special charges to be taught and led gently and firmly into what he felt was the only path of right living. However, he did not confine his work to church affairs but gave endorsement and aid to those movements he deemed would serve toward a general uplifting of humanity. No better monument can any man have, be he priest or layman, than that which is erected in the hearts of his intimates and shows forth in their lives, and judging by what he accomplished, Father Depoorter did not live in vain but made the world better and purer for his brief stay in it.

Henry Rumler

Henry Rumler, a well known citizen of Atkinson, who is engaged in the hardware business and in selling farm implements, was born in Belgium, April 14, 1854. His parents, Francis and Amelia (Bonne) Rumler, who were also natives of that country, came to America in 1857, settling in Moline, Rock Island county, Illinois. The next year, however, they came to Atkinson, where the father obtained work as a section boss, though in the land of his birth he had been a farmer. He was not long permitted to enjoy the advantages of this country for after only a little more than twelve years' residence here he departed this life in

1869. He was buried in the Catholic cemetery in Atkinson, in which his widow was also laid to rest. Nine children were born to them, six of whom are living: Henry, of this sketch; August, of Atkinson; Mary, the wife of Jacob Broghamer, of Cambridge, Illinois; John, of Atkinson; Wilhelme, the wife of John S. Iman, who lives in Montana; and Amelia, the wife of John Catour, of Atkinson.

Henry Rumler attended the district schools of Atkinson township and assisted his father with the work on the farm until twenty-one years of age, when he rented a part of the farm and in connection with its operation ran a corn sheller and threshing machine. In 1892 he and John S. Nowers bought the hardware stock of John Johnston, who had been in business here for years and established their store on State street. Besides a line of stoves, pumps and general hardware, they deal in farm implements, carrying windmills, Deering, binders, the J. I. Case and G. A, R. Scott threshing machines and other machinery used on a farm. Mr. Rumler devotes the greater part of his attention to this branch of the business, while his partner takes charge of the hardware department. Although so many of his interests are in the town of Atkinson, he still lives on his farm, about one mile west of the village, a tract of one hundred and sixty acres of well improved land. His wife in her own right owns eighty acres in Cornwall township, so that they are closely identified with agricultural interests.

On the 15th of November, 1877, Mr. Rumler wedded Miss Wilhelme Bonwhuis, a daughter of Anthony and Theresa (Van Landschoot) Bonwhuis, both natives of Holland. The father was born in the city of Heerenveen, in 1820, and came to America in 1846, in one of the old sailing vessels, it requiring forty days to cross the ocean. He settled first in Wisconsin, which was then just beginning to be colonized by white people, who were greatly outnumbered by the red men. In fact Mr. Bonwhuis used to say that it was no infrequent occurrence for him to have his Sunday dinner in the company of these children of the forest. Leaving Wisconsin, Mr. Bonwhuis went to Rock Island, Illinois, and in 1865 came to Atkinson, where he opened a general store on State street, where his daughter Mrs. Goldberg, is now engaged in business. He retired from active life a few years before his death, which occurred in July, 1907. His first wife was Miss Theresa Van Landschoot also a native of Holland, whom he wedded in Rock Island in 1855. She passed away in 1863, and two years later, in St. Louis, Mr. Bonwhuis married Miss Demphinne Hendricks, who died February 18, 1907. There were three children by the first marriage : Christine, the wife of Peter Goldberg, of Atkinson; Wilhelme, now Mrs. Rumler; and Mary, the wife of August Rumler.

Mr. and Mrs. Rumler have had seventeen children: Frank, the eldest, died at the age of two years; William H., born January 13, 1880, is in Dallas, South Dakota, where he is interested in automobiles ; Annie is the wife of Peter De Reu, of Atkinson township, and they have four children, William, Edna, Alma and Roy; Edward married Miss Elizabeth Egert, of Atkinson, and they have two children, Blanche and Carl Joseph ; Elizabeth is in Nauvoo, Illinois ; Albert is at home, as are the remaining children who are alive, Charles, John, Henry, Alfred, Jennie, Amandus Calvin, Mary, Irene and Frances ; Agnes, the eleventh child is deceased ; and the fifteenth died in infancy. The children have received their edu-

In his political views Mr. Rumler does not confine himself to any one party but casts his vote for the man he believes best suited for office. While not an office seeker, he has rendered the community valuable services as highway commissioner and as a member of the school board, in both of which capacities he served for ten years. A man of strong principles and fine character, progressive and enterprising, he is well known throughout Henry and adjoining counties and is highly respected. His success is the result of his own efforts and might be envied were it not so well deserved.

Milton T. Booth

Milton T. Booth, a successful hardware merchant of Atkinson, where he has been engaged in business since 1905, was born in Bureau county, Illinois, on the 27th of October, 1869, his parents being C. N. and Henrietta (Tyler) Booth. The father, whose birth occurred in England, October 11, 1841, was brought to the United States when but two years of age. He followed farming throughout his active business career, being identified with general agricultural pursuits in Bureau county until 1907, since which time he has lived retired in Atkinson, Illinois. He is a republican in his political views and has capably served in various township offices. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Congregational church. His wife, whose birth occurred near Hartford, Connecticut, on the 7th of' January, 1842, came to this state when a maiden of about thirteen years. She is a devoted and consistent member af the Episcopal church.

Milton T. Booth obtained his early education in the district schools of Providence and Tiskilwa in his native county and afterward pursued his studies in Knox College of Galesburg. He remained on the home farm with his father until he had attained his majority and then went on the road as a fireman, running an engine for a number of years, while subsequently he had charge of government machines during the construction of the Hennepin canal. In 1905 he purchased the hardware stock of J. J. Bloom, of Atkinson, Illinois, and has since successfully conducted the enterprise, dealing in stoves, tinware, gasoline engines, sheet metal, lightning rods, etc. Alert, enterprising and energetic, he has built up an extensive, growing and profitable trade and is widely recognized as one of the prosperous and representative business men of the county.

On the 7th of April, 1892, Mr. Booth was united in marriage to Miss Huldah J. Nelson, whose birth occurred in Princeton, Illinois, on the loth of August, 1869, her parents being A. P. and Hannah (Eckstrand) Nelson. The father, who was identified with general agricultural pursuits in Bureau county, Illinois, passed away October 16, 1895. The mother still survives and makes her home in Bureau county. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Booth have been born four children, as follows : Edith Darlene, who first opened her eyes to the light of day in Providence, Illinois, on the 13th of April, 1893, and is now a student in the Atkinson high school; Adeline Johannah, who was born in Providence on the 19th of Aug- ust, 1895, and now attends grammar school; Maude Nelsie, whose birth occurred in Providence, August i, 1897, and who is also attending school; and Alice Dorothy, who was born in Atkinson on the 19th of February, 1903.

Politically Mr. Booth is a stalwart advocate of the republican party, while fraternally he is identified with the Masons, the Knights of Pythias and the Modern Woodmen. As a citizen he is public spirited to an eminent degree, deeply interested in the welfare of his community. All who know him entertain for him respect, while those who come within the closer circle of his acquaintance find him a genial gentleman and delight in his companionship.

Clarence Thomas Ward

The needs of his home farm make steady demands upon the time and energies of Clarence Thomas Ward, who owns one hundred and eighteen acres on section 31, Atkinson township, and eighty acres in Geneseo township. A native of the former township, he was born in the house he now occupies March 8, 1875, his parents being Joseph and Anna (French) Ward. The former was born in Somersetshire, England, January 13, 1836, and lived in the land of his birth until he was seventeen years of age, when, determined to try the opportunities said to abound in the United States, he crossed the Atlantic. He was in all probability the first of his family to come to this country, although two brothers, Benjamin and Thomas, came here later. He remained in New York state for two years after reaching our shores, obtaining work and attending school for a short period. When he was nineteen he started westward, reaching Henry county, Illinois, November 5, 1855. Here he found employment by the month, but in 1856, having married, he purchased the place where his son Clarence T. is now living. A few improvements had been begun and a frame house started, but for some time he and his wife lived in a log cabin. Later he erected other buildings, and as he won a pronounced success from cultivating the soil he invested in other farm property, buying eighty acres in Geneseo township and one hundred and sixty acres in Alinnesota. A man who had been thrown upon his own resources early in life, he knew the full value of persistent industry and economy, and it was due entirely to his own efforts that he gained the success that enabled him to retire to Geneseo in 1893. There his last ten years were spent, his demise occurring May 2, 1903. On becoming a citizen of this nation he allied himself with the republican party and, while upholding its principles, was always loyal to the country of his adoption and rendered his community valuable services during the years he was school director.

On the 24th of June, 1856, Joseph Ward married Miss Anna Maria French, who still survives him. They were the parents of nine children, Elizabeth became the wife of William Chrisop and lives in Jamesport, Missouri, where she is rearing her two sons, George F., now residing in Phenix township, married Mary Key and they have three children. Elmer and Ella E. were twins. The former died at the age of three years, but the latter is now the wife of George

Matson and lives in Geneseo. She is the mother of four children. Henry died at the age of seven years. Lily became the wife of William Mowbray and died at the age of twenty-eight years. A twin of Clarence Thomas died at birth. Bertha is the wife of Hartz Matson, of Citronelle, Alabama, and they have two children.

Clarence Thomas Ward was reared upon the home farm in Atkinson township, receiving his elementary education in the district schools. When about sixteen )'ears of age he entered the high school at Geneseo and the following fall became a student in the Geneseo Collegiate Institute, which he attended for two winters. At the age of seventeen, however, he had started to make his way in the world by working for farmers by the month. In 1895 he married and assumed charge of the home place, to whose cultivation he has devoted himself since. He is progressive in his farming, utilizing modem methods and machinery, and has found his labors rewarded by a handsome income, which has enabled him to carry forward the improvements upon his place, for in 1907 he. bought the homestead and since that date has put up a modern crib and granary combined, has erected a corn elevator and built a new hog house. Of recent years he has given more and more time to stock raising and feeding, and as his animals have found a ready market he regards this enterprise as profitable. Through close application and indefatigable energy he has achieved the success which he now enjoys and which is well deserved.

On the 27th of March, 1895, in Geneseo, Mr. Ward was united in marriage to Miss Grace Edwards, who was born in Western township, this county, April 23, 1869, a daughter of Herbert and Harriet (Gordon) Edwards. The former was born in Vermont in 1825, grew to manhood in that state and then with his parents drove through the mountains and over the prairies to Moline, Illinois, where he followed his trade as a mason. There he met Miss Harriet Gordon, who later became his wife. She was born near Battle Creek, Michigan, and when three years old, in 1836, came with her parents to Henry county, and it is believed that her brother Henry Gordon, and his twin sister, Henrietta, who is now Mrs. Cossun, of Moline, were the first white children born in this county. Her father, Amos Gordon, lived to see a great change wrought in the character of this section of the state, for he was ninety-nine years of age when he died in Moline. His wife also lived to witness these changes, for she had passed the ninetieth milestone on life's journey before called to her final rest. One of her sons, Daniel, is still living in Moline at the age of eighty-seven years. For a short time after his marriage Herbert Edwards was engaged in farming in Rock Island county, living near Moline, and then in 1867 they removed to Western township, Henry county, where Mrs. Ward was born, as was her sister who is now Mrs. Abel Ward. Mr. Edwards died in Western township about 1884, but his widow is still living and resides in Geneseo at the advanced age of seventy-six years. After the death of her father Mrs. Ward removed with her mother to Geneseo, where she attended the high school and later the Geneseo Collegiate Institute, and was within two months of graduating from the latter when she was compelled to abandon her studies on account of ill health. She then undertook a course in music and received her diploma from that department of the institute in 1888. The subsequent five years were devoted to teaching music, in which she attained a marked success.

Five children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Ward, namely: Harold, who was born on their present home, September 8, 1896; one who died in infancy; Florence L., who was born September 6, 1900; Frank G., Alarch i, 1903 ; and Wilbur J., February 25, 1905.

Mr. Ward is a stalwart champion of the principles of the republican party and a sincere friend of the cause of education, as was manifest during the nine years of his acceptable service as school director. Both he and his wife are members of the Congregational church and their lives have exemplified the principles of Christianity, so that they are highly regarded in the community as persons of genuine worth.

Robert Allen

The agricultural and stock-raising interests of Henry county find a worthy representative in Robert Allen, who owns and operates the farm on which he lives on section 30, Cornwall township. He was born near his present home, November 8, 1867, and is a son of William and Margaret (Martin) Allen. The father was born in Belfast, Ireland, where he grew to manhood and was married, and three of his children were born there before he determined to emigrate to America to give them the advantages of life in this new world. Six weeks were consumed in crossing the Atlantic, and several more before he and his family reached Cornwall township, for they came to Henry county, Illinois, immediately after landing. The Civil war had just been inaugurated at that time, and shortly after his arrival Mr. Allen was called into the army, but as he was not a citizen he was not subject to draft and when he went to Peoria was excused from serving. On taking up his residence in Cornwall township he rented a farm but with the intention of obtaining the best results from his labor, he saved carefully and later bought eighty acres of land on section 29, where the schoolhouse now stands. Subsequently he was able to buy the eighty acres on which his son Robert now lives and finally eighty acres to the north of this last tract on which his son Henry resides. For all of the land he paid fifty dollars an acre, and his property is a visible evidence of the success which attended his farming operations. He had been reared in the Presbyterian faith and became a member of that church at Cornwall, \vhile in politics he was a republican. The hope which led him to establish his home here was realized, for not only was he able to enjoy many comforts but he had the satisfaction of knowing that his children were well established. They were eight in number, of whom seven reached maturity and five are still living. The first three were born in Ireland, but the others in Henry county. Sarah died at the age of six. She was taken ill about the time her parents intended starting for America, and her mother remained behind with her, while her father and the two other children continued their journey. John is unmarried. Ellen is also unmarried and lives in Kewanee. William died unmarried. James is a resident of Kewanee and has not married. Anna became the wife of Frank Leonard and died in Osco township, leaving three children. A

Robert Allen was reared upon the paternal farm and is indebted to the district schools for the educational opportunities he enjoyed. Even as a boy he obtained thorough preparation for his hfe work through the assistance he rendered his father on the farm, giving him the benefit of his' labor until he attained his majority, when he and his brother Henry were given a share in the crops. Later their father gave to each eighty acres, while the third tract was given to their sister, Mrs. Leonard. After her death Robert Allen and his brother bought her share between them, so that now each owns one hundred and twenty acres. On this Mr. Allen raises a variety of crops, and as in every department of farm work he has shown industry, perseverance and good management, he finds that the rich soil makes generous returns in bountiful harvests. Of recent years he had engaged to considerable extent in raising, feeding and shipping stock, in this business also finding his work well repaid by a large and gratifying income.

In the village of Galva, this county, Mr. Allen wedded Miss May Becker, October 25, 1896. She was at that time residing in Cambridge township, where her birth occurred September 11, 1875, her parents being George and Susan (Stewart) Becker. They were natives of New York state and Pennsylvania respectively, but were married in this county, where Mr. Becker followed farming. He is still living in Cambridge township, but his wife was called to her final rest in 1891. They were the parents of five children, namely: Harmon, who died in infancy; May, now Mrs. Allen; Jerry, who is in the employ of the government and resides in Springfield, Missouri; Frank, who is unmarried and lives in Idaho; and Lina, who is the wife of Joseph Talbert and lives in Cambridge, Illinois. Mr. and Mrs. Allen have one son, Frank, who was born upon the home place, June 13, 1897.

Mr. Allen is a stanch advocate of the principles of republicanism, but has never sought nor desired office as a reward for party fealty. He belongs to Cambridge Lodge, No. 199, I. O. O. F., and with his wife to the Rebekah lodge at Cambridge. Both are well known and highly esteemed as persons of genuine worth and upright honorable lives not only among their lodge friends but throughout the community, with which they have been identified for so many years.

Henry Ray Allen

Reared to agricultural pursuits Henry Ray Allen has continued to follow that occupation as his life work and the years have chronicled the substantial success he has won from cultivating the one hundred and twenty acres of land he owns on section 30, Cornwall township. He was born on this section November 8, 1867, a son of William and Margaret (Martin) Allen. The days of his youth passed as do those of the majority of farm lads, the winter months being largely devoted to acquiring an education in the district school, and the summer season to the arduous work in the fields. He early became acquainted with the best methods of plowing, planting and harvesting, so that by the time he had attained his majority he was fully competent to carry on farm work profitably. At that age his father gave him and his brother Robert a share in the crops, and when he divided his property deeded him eighty acres. To that tract Mr. Allen added forty acres, by purchase from his sister's heirs, and now has under an excellent state of cultivation one hundred and eighty acres. He has spared no effort to increase the productivity of his soil, and the size and quality of the crops he garners annually are a tribute to his skill, his energy, and his patience.

On the 7th of September, 1901, in Cambridge, Illinois, Mr. Allen wedded Miss Elizabeth Stewart, of that town. She was born at Villisca, Iowa, December 17, 1874, and was about two years of age when her parents, Alexander and Ellen (Lemley) Stewart, removed to Chetopa, Labette county, Kansas. There her father died, and six years later she and her mother took up their residence in Cambridge, Illinois, where she grew to womanhood. After graduating from the Cambridge high school with the class of 1893, she engaged in teaching both in the country schools and in those of the town, following that profession until her marriage. She is the youngest in a family of four, the others being: William, who married Lula Miles, now deceased, and is at present a telegraph operator at Esterbrook, Wyoming; Harry, who wedded Hallie Vincent and is residing in Cambridge township, where he is rearing his five children; and Kinsey, who is also married and is a blacksmith at Lehigh, Iowa. Mrs. Stewart died October i, 1907, and was buried in Cambridge.

Mr. Allen gives his support to the republican party, and that he is deeply interested in public welfare is manifest in the acceptable service he rendered the community as school director and as road commissioner. Fraternally he is connected with Cambridge Lodge, No. 199, I. O. O. F., and with Annawan Lodge, No. 433, A. F. & A. M., at Atkinson, and with his wife he belongs to Rebekah lodge, No. 157, and to the Cambridge and Atkinson lodges of the Eastern Star. In the Cambridge Eastern Star Mrs. Allen has served as Adah and associate conductress and being a woman of attractive personality the circle of her friends is continually growing. Mr. Allen also has the regard of many, for his life, established upon sound principles of upright manhood, is one which may bear close inspection and command respect.

Cyrus H. Brooks

Cyrus H. Brooks, who for the past seven years has lived retired in Galva, was for many years extensively and successfully engaged in general agricultural pursuits and is still the owner of five hundred and sixty acres of valuable and highly improved land in Henry county. His birth occurred in Grafton, Vermont, on the 17th of September, 1828, his parents being George and Salina (Houghton) Brooks, who were likewise natives of the Green Mountain state. Solomon Brooks, the paternal grandfather, was also born in Vermont and followed farming as a life work. He was numbered among the early settlers of Peoria county, Illinois, and passed away at Brimfield in 1854, when almost ninety years of age. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Amelia Fisher, survived him for a num- ber of years and was also about ninety years old at the time of her demise. Unto them were born two sons and three daughters, as follows : Cyrus, George, Mary, Martha and Elvira. The founder of the Brooks family in this country was also named Solomon Brooks. He came to America from England with two brothers, David and Daniel, and took up his abode in Vermont. He had a son Solomon, who served as a soldier in the Revolutionary war. The maternal grandfather of our subject, Darius Houghton, who was a native of Vermont, settled in the vicinity of Chicago, Illinois, in an early day and there passed away when between eighty and ninety years of age. His wife, Mrs. Amelia Houghton, also lived to a ripe old age. Their children were five in number, namely: Leland, Giles, Rudolphus, Salina and Elvira.

George Brooks, the father of Cyrus H. Brooks, came to Illinois in 1841 and for three years made his home at Olney, Richland county. Subsequently he removed to Brimfield, Peoria county, where he resided for twenty years and during that entire period hauled his products to Peoria - a distance of twenty miles. He was a farmer by occupation and underwent many of the hardships and dangers of life in a pioneer district where deer and wolves still roamed at will. On leaving Peoria county he took up his abode in Galva township, Henry county, v/here he owned and operated a farm of forty acres. His death, which occurred in Galva when he was eighty-four years of age, was the occasion of deep and widespread regret. He was well known and highly esteemed as one of the worthy pioneer settlers of this part of the state, whose labors had contributed in substantial measure to its early development and upbuilding. His wife had preceded him to the home beyond by ten or twelve years. They reared a family of five sons and three daughters, as follows : Cyrus H., of this review ; Elzina, the widow of Luther Gould, of CaHfornia; Orrin, who is deceased; Darius, a resident of Creston, Iowa; Mary,' the wife of John Evans, of Union county, Iowa; Henry, who has also passed away; Luther, living in Douglas, Wyoming; and Amelia, the deceased wife of David Emery, of Galva.

Cyrus H. Brooks, who was thirteen years of age when he came to this state with his parents, grew to manhood in Peoria county and was there married when a young man of twenty-six years. In 1862 he took up his abode in Henry county and bought eighty acres of land in Walnut Grove township, Knox county, while later he purchased a quarter section in Weller township, this county, making his home thereon until 1882. He then removed to a farm in the western edge of the corporation of Galva, where he resided for a period of twenty years. At the end of that time he put aside the active work of the fields and has since lived retired in Galva, making his home on North Hurd street, better known as "Heaven" street. He bought a farm of two hundred and forty acres in Union county, Iowa, and gave it to his son LeRoy. He likewise purchased a farm of one hundred and sixty acres in the state of Kansas which is still in his possession. His landed holdings in this county embrace five hundred and sixty acres and some idea of their value may be gained from the fact that he has refused two hundred dollars an acre for his land around Galva. The success which attended his labors as an agriculturist came as the merited reward of his intelligently directed and untiring industry and he is now enabled to spend his remaining days in well earned ease amid all of the comforts and many of the luxuries of life.

On the 19th of February, 1854, Mr. Brooks was united in marriage to Miss Amelia Jane Miles, of Elmwood, Illinois. She was a native of New York city and her parents, Freeman and Ruth Emma (Woodward) Miles, were born in Massachusetts. They became early settlers of this state, locating in Elmwood, Peoria county, where they spent the remainder of their lives. Their union was blessed with three children: Amelia Jane, Rosa and Alfred. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Brooks have been born five children. LeRoy, a resident of Corvallis, Benton county, Oregon, married Miss Alice Chase, of Peoria, Illinois, and they have seven children - Ethel, who married John Taylor, Earle, Clarence, Cyrus, Ruth, Raymond and Herman, all residing in Corvallis. Elsie died at the age of sixteen years. Emma, living in Walnut Grove township, Knox county, Illinois, is the wife of William Harris, by whom she has four children - Floyd, Raleigh, William and Elsie. Elura makes her home in Galva and is the wife of Bert W. Cole, by whom she has three daughters - Verna, Ruby and Neva. Rosa is still at home.

Mr. Brooks gives his political allegiance to the republican party and for a number of years held the office of supervisor in Walnut Grove township. Both he and his wife are valued and consistent members of the Congregational church, in which he is serving as deacon. His life has been actuated by high and honorable principles and he fully merits the respect and esteem which is uniformly accorded him. Having made his home in this county for almost a half century, he has a wide and favorable acquaintance here and has long been numbered among the most prosperous, substantial and leading citizens of the community.

Elwood Mahlon Bothwell

Elwood Mahlon Bothwell is a progressive and enterprising young farmer of Western township, Henry county, whose diligence, energy and perseverance are meeting with most gratifying success in agricultural lines. Born upon the farm which is now his home, his birth occurred on the 25th of March, 1881, his parents being Leonard R. and Florence (Lloyd) Bothwell, well known farming people of this township, extended mention of whom is made on another page of this volume. He was reared to manhood on the home farm and in the public schools of Orion acquired a good education which well fitted him for the responsible and practical duties of life. When not engaged with his text-books he was busily at work in the fields and early became familiar with the best methods of tilling the soil. As his years and strength increased he assisted more and more largely in the work of plowing, planting and harvesting, and continued to give his father the benefit of his assistance until he arrived at years of maturity, when he entered business life on his own account. In partnership with his father and younger brother he has since been engaged in the operation of the home farm and his labors have been no small factor in bringing the place under its present high state of cultivation. He has made a close study of agriculture and is up-to-date and progressive in his methods, so that his efforts have been crowned with a most gratifying success.

It was on the 22d of November, 1905, in Cambridge, that Mr. Bothwell was united in marriage to Miss Estella Nelson, who was born in Andover township and is a daughter of Victor and Anna (Streed) Nelson, both of whom are of Swedish descent. Her father, who was a farmer by occupation, died when she was about eighteen years of age, while her mother is still living and makes her home in Cambridge. Mr. and Mrs. Bothwell are both members of the Methodist Episcopal church, in the work of which they are actively and helpfully interested, while they stand high in the community in which they reside.

Politically Mr. Bothwell is a republican but he has never sought nor desired public preferment as the reward for party fealty. Having passed his entire life in Western township, he has gained an extensive circle of friends which is almost coextensive with the circle of his acquaintances, his many excellent traits of character having won for him the unqualified regard, respect and good will of his fellowmen.

Dr. Joseph Ansley Gustafson, one of the promising young physicians of Orion, was born in this county, in February, 1873, and is a son of John G. and Elizabeth (Weech) Gustafson, a sketch of whose lives appears elsewhere in this volume. He was reared upon the paternal farm, either in Western or Lynn township, and after completing the course of instruction prescribed by the local schools entered Knox College, Galesburg, from which he was graduated. Later he took up the study of medicine in the College of Physicians and Surgeons, in Chicago, Illinois, receiving from it his medical degree in the spring of 1901. For one year he was house physician in the sanatarium at Galesburg, coming to Orion in 1902. Here he established himself in most modern and convenient offices, which were carefully equipped with the finest kinds of instruments, and the other appointments which are a necessary adjunct of the up-to-date physician and surgeon's appurtenances. With the same determination that marked his course at the different schools in which he prepared for his vocation, when he hesitated not because of a lack of funds but set out to win them by work or teaching, he has met the problems that confronted him as a young practitioner and has gained the success which inevitably comes to those who exert themselves valiantly in seeking for it. He has now a large and lucrative practice and his reputation as a surgeon is growing with the passing years.

On the 31st of October, 1901, Dr. Gustafson wedded Miss Jessica B. Goddard, of Galesburg, who was bom in Streator, lUinois, in 1879, and is a daughter of James and Susan R. Goddard, both now deceased. The father was for a number of years a farmer but later in his life he removed to Galesburg, where he became identified with the best interests of the city. He was a democrat in his political sympathies, was city treasurer of Galesburg and inspector of live stock. Two other children were born to him and his wife. Mabel became the wife of Fred R. Hinman, the chief of police in Galesburg. James Robinson also lives in that city. Dr. and Mrs. Gustafson have had two children : one who died in infancy ; and Joseph Goddard, who was born May 6, 1907.

In his political views the Doctor finds himself in sympathy with the republican party, and as a member of the town board has taken part in the local government of Orion. Fraternally he enjoys pleasant relations with the Mystic Workers, while he is a devout member of the Baptist church, in harmony with whose teachings he has endeavored to order his life. In 1906 he bought the pretty home he occupies on Bank and Washington streets, where a gracious hospitality is extended to the numerous friends who visit there and to those who in distress have come to receive aid from the Doctor's ministrations.

Hiram H. Wigant

Hiram H. Wigant, who is now living retired on his farm of one hundred and fifteen acres on section 19, Cornwall township, was formerly actively and successfully identified with the agricultural interests of this county, owning two hundred and seventy-five acres of rich and productive land. His birth occurred in Kalamazoo county, Michigan, on the 9th of February, 1832, his parents being Abraham and Anna (Hoyt) Wigant, who were natives of Essex county, New Jersey, and Ohio, respectively. It was in the latter state that they were married. Subsequently they removed to Kalamazoo county, Michigan, and about 1836 took up their abode in Louisa county, Iowa, where Abraham Wigant purchased land. In 1850 he and his son Hiram started on the overland journey to the gold fields, the trip between Council Blufifs and Hangtown, California, consuming one hundred and five days. They were successfully engaged in prospecting, mining and merchandising on the Pacific coast for two and a half years, on the. expiration of which period they returned to Louisa county, Iowa, via the Isthmus of Panama. Having determined to bring his family to Henry county, Illinois, Abraham Wigant started on the removal to this state in 1855, but his demise occurred ere he had reached his destination and his remains were interred in Mercer county. His wife passed away in Michigan. Their children were eight in number, three of whom grew to years of maturity. Mary Ann, who gave her hand in marriage to James Warnstaflf; had a daughter, Elizabeth, who is now the wife of John Graham and makes her home in Louisa county, Iowa. Lucinda, who became the wife of William O. Clark, is a resident of Cambridge, Illinois. She has one son, James, who has been twice married, his first union being with Miss Sarah Caldwell, by whom he had two children. The lady who now bears his name was in maidenhood Miss Mahala Slick. James Clark lives in Geneseo,

Hiram H. Wigant, who was the youngest member of his father's family, was about twenty-three years of age when he took up his abode in this county. At that time he bought land where he now resides in Cornwall township but it was still in a wild state and he resolutely set himself to the task of developing and improving the property. The purchase price was about four dollars an acre. As the years passed he brought the land under a high state of cultivation and his labors were annually rewarded by golden harvests of grain. At one time he was the owner of two hundred and seventy-five acres on sections 18 and 19, Cornwall township, but has sold a large portion of the farm and now lives re- tired on a tract of one hundred and fifteen acres. In the conduct of his agricultural interests he won a gratifying and well deserved measure of prosperity and has long been numbered among the substantial and respected citizens of the community.

In 1858, in Henry county, Mr. Wigant was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Long, who was born in Rockingham county, Virginia, on the ist of May, 1840. her parents being Jacob and Nancy (Ryan) Long. They came to this county when their daughter Mary was a young lady of seventeen and she continued as a resident of Cornwall township until her death, which occurred January 23, 1910. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Wigant were born seven children, the record of whom is as follows : James, who makes his home in Burns township, wedded Miss Ida Bailey, by whom he has ten children. Nancy, living at Keithsburg, Illinois, gave her hand in marriage to Edward Willard and has become the mother of four children. Mary Belle, a resident of Munson township, is the wife of Charles Druva, by whom she has two children. William Wigant passed away when but three years of age. Samuel, living in Cornwall township, wedded Miss Sarah Clerk and has five children. Frederick, who likewise makes his home in Cornwall township, married Miss Martha Clark, by whom he has five children. Miss Bertha Wigant is still under the parental roof.

Politically Mr, Wigant was reared a democrat and supported the candidates of that party until i860, when he voted for Abraham Lincoln. He was on the Pacific ocean at the time Franklin Pierce was a presidential candidate and a mock election held on board ship showed the majority in favor of Pierce. Following Lincoln-'s administration Mr. Wigant voted the republican ticket for many years but in 1896 supported the Nebraska stateman, William Jennings Bryan. The cause of education has ever found in him a stanch friend and he has served both as a school director and school trustee. The period of his residence in this county now covers more than a half century and he has been an interested witness of its growth and development as pioneer conditions have given way before the onward march of civilization. He has almost reached the seventyeighth milestone on life's journey and his career has ever been such that he can look back over the past without regret and forward to the future without fear.

George W. Hartman

One of the finest homes in the town of Atkinson is that occupied by George W. Hartman, who is well known not only in Cornwall township, but throughout Henry county as well, as one of the large stockmen and the most extensive peach grower. This position and all its advantages have come entirely through his own exertions, for he was only eighteen years of age when he started upon his career unaided by any assistance from his father He was born in Chambersburg, Franklin county, Pennsylvania, March 3, 1859, and is a son of Benjamin and Catherine (Deflfenderfer) Hartman, both natives of the Keystone state. The father was born in 1806 and in the years of his active life followed farming, engaging to some extent in the buying and selling of stock and in raising and dis- posing of fresh vegetables. He died in the state of his birth in 1882, while his wife, who was born June 27, 1820, lived until October 20, 1901. They were the parents of seven children, all living: Charlotte, born June 18, 1840, now the wife of Daniel Gelwick, who lives in Pennsylvania; John W., born January 5, 1842, whose home is in the same state; Samuel, born April 11, 1846, also of Pennsylvania; Daniel, born August 20, 1850, who lives in Pennsylvania; Henry, born May 13, 1855; George W., of this sketch; and Cyrus, born August 15, 1863. In politics the father was a democrat and with his wife was a member of the Lutheran church.

George W. Hartman was educated in the little school of St. Thomas, near Chambersburg, which was known as Gelwick's. He was eighteen when his period of studying was over and immediately started in life for himself. For one year he worked on a farm in his native state and then in the spring of 1877 came to Henry county, locating first in Geneseo and later in Phenix township. For a period of five years he worked for different farmers of the locality in the summer months and in the winter was employed in the coal mines. He then returned to his old home for a year's visit, but as the advantages seemed to be better here he decided to try his fortune in this state. In 1891, he bought one hundred and twenty acres in Cornwall township, settled upon it and made it the scene of his labors until two years ago, when he removed to Atkinson and has here lived since. The many improvements which can be seen upon his farm are all the work of his hand and brain, the tangible evidence of the success with which he carried on operations. He has acquired forty additional acres in Cornwall and one hundred and sixty acres in Atkinson township, making a total of three hundred and twenty acres of arable land, not to mention the residential property, including a good corner on State and Main streets, which he owns in the town of Atkinson. He also operates a coal mine in Atkinson township, so that his interests are many and diversified. His first thought, however, is given to the farm, on which he follows general agriculture and on which he raises and feeds a large amount of stock, which he ships to the eastern markets. He has ten acres on which are one thousand peach trees, the largest orchard of its kind in the county, the crop from which in 1908 netted him one thousand dollars, and in a previous year fifteen hundred dollars. In short, a man with several interests, he has made each yield him the most possible.

When Mr. Hartman came to Illinois the first time, one of his early employers was John P. Foster, whose daughter Nellie was but a child at the time. On leaving there the memory of her companionship remained with him and when he felt able to marry he sought her and persuaded her to share his life with him. On the 6th of March, 1884, they were united in marriage and have now celebrated their silver wedding. Mrs. Hartman was born in Cornwall township, December 9, 1865, and is a daughter of John P. and Harriet (Browning) Foster. The mother was born in White county, Illinois, in 1828, and was a daughter of parents who came to Henry county in the early days, when the Indians were frequently seen and had given the name of Pink Prairie to Cornwall township. The father was born May 11, 1815, in Kentucky, but came to Illinois at an early date, and in Cornwall township engaged in farming until his death, which occurred in December, 1886. His wife passed away August 14, 1892, and like him was buried in Grand View cemetery, Cornwall township. By their marriage, which was celebrated in 1844, they had nine children, five of whom are now living: Rowena, born August 15, 1848, the wife of Robert Walever, of Moline, Illinois; Mary Frances, born October 9, 1853, the wife of Ogden Tatum, of Oklahoma ; WiUiam P., bom October 4, 1857, who lives in Atkinson; Lenora, born September 5, i860, the wife of J. A. Barnes, of Munson township; and Nellie R., now Mrs. Hartman. Politically Mr. Foster was a republican and with his wife was a stanch member of the Methodist church.

Mr. and Mrs. Hartman have had seven children, all living in Cornwall township. They are Frank, born May 10, 1866, unmarried who lives upon his farm; Charles H., born April 8, 1888, who operates his father's land in conjunction with his brother Herbert B., who was bom December 31, 1889; George H., born August 7, 1891, who is in the high school; Flora E., born July 27, 1893, at home; Raymond R., bom April 18, 1897, a pupil in the grammar school; and Nellie R., born September 10, 1904, who is still the baby of the family.

Politically Mr. Hartman affiliates with the republican party and has held several of the township offices. He belongs to the local lodge of the Woodmen, among whom he has made many friends. Successful in his agricultural pursuits he has also attained to a substantial position in the financial world, for he is a stockholder and tmstee in the Savings Bank of Geneseo and has other interests of like character. Refined, liberal and broad-minded, he has every reason to find enjoyment in his good fortune and in the beautiful home he occupies in Atkinson.

Robert William Wolever

Robert William Wolever, one of the substantial men of Moline, Illinois, and for many years a farmer of Henry county, father of Calvin Franklin Wolever, was bom in Elmore township, Peoria county, Illinois, November 23, 1844, a son of John E. and Margaret (Hulsizer) Wolever. The parents came from Warren county. New Jersey in 1837, to Peoria county, Illinois, with a wagon and two horses. In the spring of 1843 they went back to New Jersey for a visit, but returned in 1844, making both trips in the same manner as the first. The father was a blacksmith and farmer. His death occurred in Grandview county, Connecticut, October 4, 1874. The mother died May 10, 1880, and is buried beside her husband. Nine children composed theit family, as follows: Edward, who died January 18, 1903; Calvin, deceased; Lydia, deceased wife of Thomas Trekell; Ephlin, who died in January, 1907; Mrs. Mary Langley, a widow, living in Florence, Alabama; Robert William; Barbara, wife of William McBride of Galva, Illinois; Mrs. Ella J. Nowers, of Galva; Olive E., who married David Lucas of Blue Island, Illinois.

The education of Robert William Wolever was secured in the schools of Peoria and Henry counties. He studied reading, writing, spelling and arithmetic, and learned thoroughly this simple course. As a boy he helped his father with the farm. In 1866 he rented the homestead, located on sections 4 and 5, Corawall township, and operated it until 1884, when he purchased the property from the heirs and continued to farm it until 1897, with a fair degree of success. In that year he rented the farm and settled in Moline, Rock Island county, Illinois, where he is now living- retired. He has been active politically and served as town clerk during the year 1881 in Cornwall township, and as assessor from 1883 to 1889, as well as supervisor from 1881 to 1897.

Mr. Wolever was married, October 25, 1865, to Mahala Fry, who was bom in Cornwall township, a daughter of Abraham and Margaret (Laughery) Fry. Mr. Fry's father was a native of England, while his wife came of German ancestry. Born in Ohio, Mr. Fry early came to Cornwall township. He and his wife had eleven children, only two of whom survive, - James and Charles Fry who live in Leeds, South Dakota. Mr. Wolever had one child by his first marriage, - Cora M., who was bom August 9, 1866, and married S. W. Bartlett. They live at Pueblo, Colorado, and had two sons: Willis W., who was born May 25, 1898, and died January 27, 1907; and Robert B., born January 20, 1900. Mrs. Mahala Wolever died May 24, 1867.

On September 24, 1868, Mr. Wolever married Roena Foster, at Cambridge, Illinois. She was born in Peru, IlHnois, August 15, 1848, daughter of John and Harriet (Browning) Foster, natives of Kentucky and White county, Illinois, respectively, both being now deceased. Mr. Foster was a farmer and was brought to Illinois by his parents at a very early date. In politics he was a republican. He and his wife had four sons and three daughters, five of whom survive: One died in 1844; H. C. is also dead, as are Franklin, and Freland; Roena, born in 1848, is the fifth child; Fannie is the widow of Organ Tatum and lives in Oklahoma; William P. lives in Atkinson, Illinois; Nora married J. A. Barnes and lives in Munson township, Henry county; Nellie married George W. Hartman, of Atkinson. By his second marriage Mr. Wolever had four children, namely: Letha, born May 9, 1869, married J. H. Hughey, March 9, 1892, and died January 13, 1901 ; Lota, born August 5, 1871, died April 6, 1879; Calvin F. whose sketch is below was the third; Lucy, born May 26, 1881, married F. W. Schneveker, January 31, 1901. They lived in Moline, but she died August 15, 1907, leaving to the care of her mother one son, Chester F., bom May 9, 1903.

Mr. Wolever has an interesting war record. He enlisted in Company H, Fifty-seventh Illinois Volunteer Infantry, September 21, 1861, at Atkinson, Illinois, and was mustered out at Savannah, Georgia, December 25, 1864, on account of the expiration of his term of service. The regiment participated in the following battles : Fort Donelson, siege of Corinth, Resaca, Kingston, Rome, Altoona Pass, Savannah, Columbia, Bentonville, and Sherman's march to the sea. During the campaign in Georgia Mr. Wolever received an injury to his left arm which has left it stiff. He was a brave soldier who never shirked any duty and when he returned to private life he gave to the governing authorities the same obedience he rendered his superior officers when a soldier.

Other members of his family also proved their patriotism, for his brother Edward was in Company^^D, One Hundred and Twelfth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, serving until July 25, 1864, when he was discharged, having been wounded in the battle of Franklin. Henry C. Foster, the oldest brother of Mrs. Wolever, also served with the Illinois Volunteer Infantry. William Wolever, uncle of R. W. Wolever, was a soldier in the Civil war from De Witt county, serving in the One Hundred and Seventh Illinois Volunteer Infantry.

Naturally Mr. Wolever has been interested in the Grand Army of the Republic, now belonging to R. H. Graham Post, No. 312, Department of Illinois, G. A. R. of which he is quartermaster. He has belonged to this order since 1880. He also belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America, Camp No. 118, of Atkinson, having joined it October 19, 1885, as a charter member. In December, 1886, he was elected tO' the office of worthy advisor in this camp, and in the following December was elected consul and served in that capacity until December, 1896, when he left the jurisdiction of that camp. Mr. Wolever has no sectarian religious associations. In political matters he agrees with the principles set forth in the platform of the republican party.

Mr. Wolever still retains one hundred and eighty-five acres of rich farming land in Cornwall township, located at the west end of Shabbona Grove. This is rented to a good tenant. Mr. Wolever has earned all he possesses through hard work, and strict economy. In all of his work he has been ably assisted by his loyal, devoted wife. They are comfortably located at No. 2029 Seventh avenue, Moline, Illinois, where their children and grandchildren love to gather, as well as their many friends, and enjoy the bountiful hospitality and friendly companionship of these two who, having done their full duty towards their family and community, can now spend the remainder of their days in peace and plenty.

Calvin Franklin Wolever

The farmers of Henry county are as a class far beyond the average Illinois agriculturist. Owning magnificent land that yields large annual incomes, they are able to adopt scientific methods in their work and buy the latest improved machinery. Therefore their farms are models and their standing is unexcelled in the state. One thus representative of so much that is good in farm life is Calvin Franklin Wolever, of Atkinson township, who was born in Cornwall township, this county, June 16, 1874, a son of Robert William and Roena (Foster) Wolever, a full sketch of whom appears above.

The education of Mr. Wolever was secured in the common schools of Cornwall township, and he has always been connected with agricultural pursuits. He first purchased land in Rock Island county, where he farmed for two years, then bold and purchased a second farm in this county. Later he came to the village of Atkinson and, after resting for a year, bought land in Geneseo township. Spending four years upon it and improving it considerably, Mr. Wolever again removed to Atkinson township, which is now his home. He owns two hundred acres of fine land on section i, where he is carrying on general farming and feeding stock extensively.

On September 8, 1898, he married Margaret Wolf, who was born in Bureau county, Illinois, November 14, 1879, a daughter of Earnhardt and Dorothy (Cravenhurst) Wolf. The mother, a native of Germany, came to this country and is now living in Yorktown township, this county. The father who was also a German, died in 1893. He and his wife had three children, namely: Lavina, the wife of Edwin Seyler, of Hooppole, Illinois; Margaret, the wife of our subject; and Benjamin, the only son and eldest child, who takes care of the mother, they living together. Mr. Wolf had been married before and had other children. Mr. and Mrs. Wolever have one son, Robert Wolf, born November I, T900, in Cornwall township. He attends Frog Pond school in Atkinson township and is a very bright little fellow.

Mr. Wolever has worked since he was eight or nine years of age and since his marriage has been ably assisted by his wife. For some years he dealt in farm lands, buying, improving and then selling. Mr. and Mrs. Wolever have a beautiful automobile and enjoy the comforts their income warrants. They are constantly improving their home and when through will have one of the finest in Henry county's farming districts. Mr. Wolever is a broad-minded, liberal man, universally liked and a power in his community.

John William Stearns

After a long life spent in the diligent cultivation of land, which has brought him a large return, a good income and the satisfaction of a life's work well done, John William Stearns has put aside the weightier of his cares and has taken up his residence in the southern part of the village of Orion. He was bom on a farm at Center, Waterbury township, Washington county, Vermont, April 28, 1835, and was a son of John and Abigail Hall (Toby) Stearns. The former, who was a son of John Stearns, was a native of Massachusetts, but was only two years old when his parents removed to Vermont, where he spent his years in the pursuits of agriculture.

John William Stearns grew to manhood upon the farm in Vermont and in the course of years became associated with his father in its operation, continuing with him until the latter's death in 1855. The next year he also spent there with his mother, but then as he had attained his manhood he decided to start out for himself and found employment by the month among the other farmers of the locality. In October, i860, he married and shortly afterward started upon his journey to Illinois. He located first in Rock Island county, where he had an uncle, and then, as he had one thousand dollars with him, he rented eighty acres of land, bought a team and farm implements, and entered upon his career as an agriculturist in Western township, Henry county. In 1864 he purchased one hundred and sixty acres on the southeast quarter of section 12, that township. It was uncleared and unimproved but brought a price of eleven dollars and three quarters per acre. On that he built a house, sixteen by twenty-four feet, and added a lean-to. His next purchase, which was made about 1877, was eighty acres on the southwest quarter of section 7, Osco township, for which he paid four thousand dollars. Subsequently he bought another tract of eighty acres, this time in Western township, paying fifty-two hundred dollars, which he gave to his son, Arthur. His last investment in arable lands in this county embraced one hundred and seventy-seven acres on the northwest quarter of section 18,

Osco township, for which he paid sixty-five dollars an acre. As these extensive landholdings represent the success he has himself attained, he is fully entitled to the rest he now enjoys and to the justifiable pride which he in all modesty may feel in his achievements.

Mr. Stearns was twice married. In his native state in October, i860, he wedded Miss Albina C. Stone, who was born in the township of Eden, Lamoille county, Vermont. One son, John Arthur, was born of this union. His birth occurred in Western township, where he grew to maturity and where he married Miss Susan Carlin. They have now two children, Bessie May and Willis Arthur, and live at Creston, Iowa. Mrs. Stearns died in 1866, and July 18, 1867, Mr. Stearns was united in marriage to Miss Louisa Glenn, who was born in the village of Martinsville, Clinton county, OJiio, February 0, 1840. When she was about fifteen her parents, Jacob and Julia (Daggett) Glenn, came to Henry county and settled in Colona township. There her father acquired a farm and spent the remainder of his days. She was third in a family of eight children and received a good common-school education. No children have been bom of this marriage, but Mr. and Mrs. Steams have reared three and given to them all the comforts and benefits of a home.

Since he cast his first presidential ballot for John C. Fremont, Mr. Stearns has continuously voted the straight republican ticket, serving, as the choice of that party, in the capacities of school director and trustee and road commissioner. In the latter ofiice he has acted for a period of eighteen years, and he still exercises his influence for the progress of educational advantages. Mr. Stearns has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal church since she was thirteen years of age, when she was still in Ohio, and has ever been active in Sunday school work. At the time of its organization, both Mr. and Mrs. Stearns became members of the Farmers Social Club and frequently attend its meetings. In addition to his other duties and interests he is one of the directors of the Farmers State Bank.

Harry Craig Stearns

Harry Craig Stearns, who operates one hundred and seventy-seven acres of land on section 18, Osco township, belonging to John W. Stearns, was born in the city of Rock Island, Illinois, May 10, 1881, his parents being William O. and Henrietta (Glenn) Rugh. His mother died when he was but eighteen months old and he was taken by his mother's sister, Mrs, John William Stearns, under whose care he grew to maturity upon a farm on section 12, Western township. He received his education in the district schools of that township, while he assisted in the work that was carried on upon the home place from his earliest years. Until he reached the age of twenty-one he remained with his foster parents and then undertook the cultivation of the tract on which he is now residing. He has proved that the lessons learned in his youth can be put to good use, and though still a young man has given evidence of the qualities which are sure to place him among the more substantial and influential farmers of his township.

In Orion, October 21, 1908, Mr. Stearns was united in marriage to Miss Ellen T. Brodine, a daughter of Rev. P. J. and Louisa (Nordling) Brodine. Mrs. Stearns was born in Geneseo, February 6, 1885, and received a good education, having graduated from the Orion high school with the class of 1902 and on the completion of her own studies engaged in instructing others for a few years previous to her marriage to Mr. Stearns. She is a devout member of the Swedish Lutheran church and has ever been interested in its work. Since he has been of an age to exercise the franchise right of an American citizen, Mr. Steams has given his support to the republican party, but aside from casting his ballot at election times he has taken no part in local aflfairs.

Benjamin Franklin Baker

Inseparably interwoven with the history of Kewanee and Henry county has been the life record of Hon. Benjamin Franklin Baker for more than a quarter of a century. His constantly expanding operations and his intelligent application and utilization of opportunity have brought him to a prominent place in the business world, his labors constituting a source of general prosperity as well as of individual success. Through the consecutive steps of an orderly progression he has come to the vice presidency and treasuryship of the Kewanee Boiler Company and is officially connected with other important industrial, commercial and financial interests of the city.

A native of Aurora, Illinois, Mr. Baker was born July 26, 1864, his parents being Nelson G. and Lucy (Cross) Baker. His father, a retail jeweler, came to IlHnois in 1850 and continued to reside in this state until his death, which occurred in 1875. The mother, surviving him for about twenty-one years, passed away in 1896. In 1870 they had removed with their family to Sheffield, Illinios, where Nelson Baker estabhshed a jewelry store, continuing as its proprietor until his demise.

Benjamin Franklin Baker was but six years of age at the time of the removal to Sheffield and in the public schools of that city he acquired his education, his youthful days being passed in mastering the tasks assigned him in the schoolroom and in enjoying the sports in which the youths of the period indulged. He came to Kewanee in September, 1883, at the age of nine years, and made his initial step in business circles here as bookkeeper in the First National Bank, being thus employed until February, 1889. He then entered the employ of the Haxtun Steam Heater Company and in November, 1892, became one of the organizers of the Kewanee Boiler Company. From the outset he has been connected with the enterprise and his business ability, constructive efforts and executive force have been salient features in the growth and development of the business. In 1902 he was elected vice president of the company and has since performed the duties of that office and of treasurer as well. A man of ready resource, he has not confined his attention and qualities to one undertaking, for in January, 1902, he with others organized the Federal Boiler & Supply Company and has been its secretary and treasurer since its organization. He is also one of the directors of the Kellogg-Mackay Company of Chicago and a director of the Union National Bank of Kewanee, so that he has voice in the management of various important business concerns in the city in which he has now made his home for twenty-six years.

On the i2th of June, 1901, Mr. Baker was united in marriage to Mary H. Chandler, of Chicago, a daughter of Charles Blood. They are prominent in the social circles of this city and Mr. Baker is a valued member of Kewanee Lodge, No. 159, A. F. & A. M., of which he is a past master. When a dispensation was granted to Kewanee Commandery, No. 71, K. T., he was named as eminent commander and served until the first annual election. He is also connected with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and with the Kewanee Club. Positive in his republicanism, he has never been neglectful of the duties of citizenship but has sought the public welfare through his advocacy of principles which he deems most conducive to good government. He was first called to office in 1886 when elected village clerk of Kewanee for a two year's term, and in November, 1906, higher official honors were conferred upon him in his election to the state senate from the thirty-seventh senatorial district. Strong and honorable purpose has characterized him in his official as well as his business life and his position on any vital question is never an equivocal one.

Perry E. Westerlund

Perry E. Westerlund, the proprietor of the Cloverdale Farm, which embraces one hundred and sixty acres on section 25, Western township, was born on the same section January 24, 1876, and is a son of Peter and Christine (Hultman) Westerlund. The parents are now living in the village of Orion, resting after many years devoted to agricultural pursuits.

The youngest of a family of five children, Perry E. Westerlund was reared on the home place and attended the district school, where he secured his first introduction into the world of books and knowledge. For one year he attended Augustana College, where he pursued a business course, and then returned home to work for his father. He shortly afterward rented land of the latter and engaged in farming for himself, with what success may be judged from the extent of his fields and the general prosperous appearance of his land and the condition of his buildings. In 1899, the year in which he married, he erected his handsome residence, commodious, well constructed and equipped, which set the standard to which he tried to conform when he put up the other buildings on his place. A successful tiller of the soil, yet it is as a stockman that he has made his reputation, for his cattle and hogs are well known in the markets to which he sends them.

At Woodhull, Illinois, March 22, 1899, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Westerlund and Miss Selma Edmund, who was born and reared in Oxford township, where her birth occurred September 4, 1875. Her parents were Andrew J. and Johanna (Carlson) Edmund, the former of whom is a resident of Woodhull, but the mother has passed away, her death having occurred February 14,

1907. Mrs. Westerlund was the third in a family of six and has become the mother of three children, two sons and a daughter : Forest Edmund Emanuel, born October 19, 190 1 ; Lyle Ruth Eleanor, born October 14, 1903; and Mahlon Howard Peter, born April 2, 1907. Mr. Westerlund is a member of the Swedish Lutheran church at Orion and gives his support to the candidates of the republican party. Fraternally he is connected with the Modern Woodmen of America, being a member of Camp No. 261, and takes part in all the meetings of the society and is deeply interested in the welfare of his brothers. Thrifty, industrious and energetic, he is now numbered as one of the leading farmers of Western township. Cloverdale Farm might in many ways serve as a model for others of like kind, while the stock which has made for it its name is some of the best in this locality.

William Riley

William Riley, proprietor of the Rock River Heights summer resort, who for many years was one of the prosperous farmers and skillful blacksmiths of Atkinson township, was born in Cornwall township, Henry county, October 4, 1854, a son of James and Sarah Ann (Dunbar) Riley. Both parents were born in Ohio but were brought to Illinois by their respective parents and were married in Bureau county, where they resided for a number of years. Later they came to Cornwall township, Henry county, where the father purchased a farm and made his home until his retirement to Atkinson, where his death occurred November 3, 1905. His widow survives, being now eighty-one years of age.

William Riley received a common school education and was reared to hard work on the farm. On February 27, 1875, he was married in the village of Atkinson to Miss Elizabeth Schwab, who was born in Switzerland, January 20, 1853, a daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth (Maglie) Schwab. She was four years old when brought by her parents to this country, the trip being made on a sailing vessel and consuming forty days. The Schwabs first settled near Kewanee, Illinois, and then went to Annawan, but finally located in Cornwall township, where Mr. Schwab bought two hundred and eighty acres of land, which he improved and made into a fine farm. He came with a brother-in-law and the two assisted one another until both were well established.

After Mr. Riley was married he rented land from his father for several years, then buying eighty acres to which he added an adjoining eighty acres, building upon it a comfortable residence. Having always loved the river, at one time he built a launch and operated it at Joslyn ferry. While traveling back and forth he had seen the possibilities of the land he now owns and operates as a summer resort so that in 1903 he bought it, putting up a log house and the same fall added ten cottages. This resort makes no pretentions toward fashionable life but is used by those desiring to get away from city life and enjoy the pleasures of nature. The camp is beautifully located and commands a magnificent view of the always lovely Rock river. Mr. Riley still owns his farming property having in all two hundred and forty acres as well as three residences and four lots in Atkinson, which is his winter home.

Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Riley, namely: Samuel James, who died in infancy; Catherine, who was born in Annawan and who attended the Geneseo Collegiate Institute for two years; and Frank Leonard who died at the age of two years and eight months. The daughter has devoted a good deal of her attention to music and is now an accomplished pianist and vocalist and a most charming young lady.

Mr. Riley is a democrat and while not an office seeker has served as road commissioner in Cornwall township and as school director and alderman of Atkinson, discharging all of the various duties pertaining to these positions with marked fidelity. He is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America and its auxiliary, the Royal Neighbors, and is a genial, whole-souled man who has made friends all his life and never loses one. His camp is a favorite one for fishermen and hunters and those who are once his guests seldom fail to avail themselves of the privilege of coming to the resort again.

Arthur J. Dickey

Arthur J. Dickey, a prominent agriculturist and stockman of Henry county, owns and operates a highly improved and valuable farm comprising three hundred and twenty acres of land on section 27, Cornwall township. He is numbered among the worthy native sons of this county, his birth having occurred in Cornwall township on the 23d of September, 1863. A sketch of his parents, David T. and Eliza E. (Peterson) Dickey, appears on another page of this work.

Arthur J. Dickey passed his boyhood days on the home farm in Cornwall township and after leaving the district school spent a year as a student in the Kewanee public school. Subsequently he pursued a commercial course in the Davenport Business College and after being graduated from that institution retured to the home farm, there remaining until he was married at the age of twenty-four years. In 1889 he went to Clay county, Nebraska, with his young wife and there gave his attention to the operation of a rented farm for three years. On the expiration of that period, in 1892, he returned to Henry county, Illinois, and in 1895 bought one hundred and sixty acres of his present farm from his father, paying seventy-two dollars an acre for the land. In 1901 he purchased another quarter section at one hundred dollars an acre and at the end of five years sold the property for one hundred and fifty dollars an acre. Two years later he again bought the place, paying one hundred and fifty dollars an acre for the land and five hundred dollars for the improvements that had been made upon it. His holdings therefore embrace three hundred and twenty acres on section 27, Cornwall township, and in recent years he has not only remodeled the buildings on the place but has added a number of others until today it is lacking in none of the improvements and conveniences of a model farm of the twentieth century. In addition to cultivating the cereals best adapted to soil and climate, he also devotes considerable attention to the raising, feeding and shipping of stock and in both branches of his business has won a gratifying anct well merited measure of success.

On the 4th of January, 1888, in Cornwall township, Mr. Dickey was united in marriage to Miss Hattie B. Hayden, a native of that township and a daughter of Gideon and Mary E. (Casteel) Hayden. The father still survives and now makes his home at Guide Rock, Nebraska, but the mother passed away when her daughter Hattie was only eight years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Dickey have two children. Leslie A., whose birth occurred during the sojourn of his parents in Nebraska, is now a young man of twenty. After completing the prescribed course of study in the district school he entered the high school at Kewanee and was graduated therefrom in 1909. Lela Grace, the daughter of our subject, is now a sophomore in the Kewanee high school.

Since age. conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr. Dickey has cast his ballot in support of the men and measures of the republican party, believing that its principles are most conducive to good government. The cause of education has ever found in him a stalwart champion and he is at present serving as the capable incumbent in the office of school treasurer. He and his family belong to the Liberty Cornwall Congregational church, formerly called the Union Congregational church of Cornwall, of which both he and his wife are charter members. Mr. Dickey acts as trustee and also as superintendent of the Sunday school, having served in the latter capacity for about fifteen years. Fraternally he is identified with the Modern Woodmen of America at Atkinson. His entire life has been guided by the most honorable principles and his self-reliance and unfaltering industry, combined with his integrity, constitute the salient features in his prosperity.

Frank A. Snodgrass

Frank A. Snodgrass, the owner of a good tract of land on section 23, Edford township, is one of the progressive farmers, who, though handicapped in his youth by the poverty and lack of opportunities, has won success and has profited greatly by the rise in agricultural land that has indicated the prosperity of Henry county. He was born on a farm on Moline Bluffs, Hampton township. Rock Island county, August 24, 1870, and is the son of John and Sarah (Jamerson) Snodgrass. There were but two children in the family, his elder brother, Benjamin, being a farmer in Hanna township.

Frank A. Snodgrass was but three years of age when his father was killed by a stroke of lightning, and early had to seek his own fortunes in the world. When ten years of age he began to work by the day. His industry and ability having been proved through severe tests he was soon able to obtain employment by the month. The desire to get ahead in the world and the necessity of saving the greater part of his earnings having been inculcated in him, when he became twenty-one he found that he had one thousand dollars with which to start in business for himself. For seven years he rented from his uncle a farm in Hanna township, and then in 1895 bought a tract of ninety-five acres, paying fifty dollars an acre for it. In nine years it had more than doubled in value and he sold it for one hundred and five dollars an acre. He had also purchased one hundred and sixty acres at forty dollars an acre, and this, in the space of six years, has almost doubled in price, for when he disposed of it he received seventy-two dollars an acre for it. He next bought some land east of Geneseo for which he paid one hundred and thirty dollars an acre, and three years later sold it for one hundred and fifty-one dollars. He thereupon moved into the city of Geneseo where he has made his home to the present, though he contemplates moving in the near future to the farm he has purchased in Edford township.

While he was renting of his uncle in Hanna township Mr. Snodgrass was married to Miss Clara Shafer, a native of that township and a daughter of William and Mary (Varus) Shafer. After Mrs. Snodgrass had completed the work of the district school she took a course in the Collegiate Institute in Geneseo. Two children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Snodgrass : John Clinton, who was bom in Hanna township, October 5, 1899, and Harry W., who was born in Hanna township, April 9, 1902. Both Mr. and Mrs. Snodgrass are members of the Methodist Episcopal church and will rear their children in that faith. Mr. Snodgrass has served the congregation of the local church for many years in the capacity of steward and as trustee. Politically he affiliates with the republican party and while he was a resident of Hanna township he acted as highway commissioner and for part of two terms was school trustee. His well developed business capacity and powers have enabled him to work his way steadily upward, and benefiting by the rise in land values, following his judicious investments, and by his intelligently directed energy he is now in the possession of a comfortable competency.

Among those who have figured prominently in professional circles in Orion is numbered Dr. John E. Magnuson, who for a number of years has practiced successfully as a dentist, gaining equal prominence and respect as a citizen. A native of Illinois, he was born in Lynn township, Henry county, on the sixth of October, i860, a son of Charles J. and Johanna C. Magnuson. As the name indicates the family is of Swedish origin, both parents having been born across the water. They came to America in early life with their parents, both families arriving in this country in 185 1. They immediately came to Illinois, settling first near Swedona, Mercer county, and later became residents of Henry county. In this country the parents were united in marriage and began their domestic life in Lynn township, near Ophiem, where the father carried on general farming. He also engaged extensively in stock feeding and became very successful, being an extensive landowner. He was one of the founders of the Swedish Mutual Fire Insurance Company, which was organized for the purpose of insuring farm and town residence property, and he served as secretary of the company for several years. He was a member of the Evangelical church, of which he was secretary, and was a very public-spirited man, taking a deep and helpful interest in all community aflFairs. He passed away about twenty years ago, while his widow still survives and makes her home in Orion.

On his father's farm J. E. Magnuson spent the period of his boyhood and youth, and during the winter months attended the district schools in the acquirement of his Hterary education. Later he enjoyed the advantages of a course of study in Miller's Business College at Keokuk, from which institution he was graduated with the class of 1882. The periods of vacation were devoted to assisting his father in the work of the home farm, and immediately after his graduation from business college he went to Colorado, where he was engaged in prospecting for a time. Later he returned home, carrying on farming for himself for some time, and then, in the fall of 1891, he entered the Chicago College of Dental Surgery, from which he was graduated in June, 1895. He has become a very skilled and successful dentist and has for many years enjoyed a very extensive patronage, which is steadily increasing in volume and importance. Through the years of his practice he has kept abreast with the onward march of the profession, has secured the latest improved instruments and equipments found in the modern dental office and followed methods of practice which receive the sanction of this progressive age. He has high ideals concerning his work and conforms to a high standard of professional ethics.

It was on the 28th of November, 1898, that Dr. Magnuson was united in marriage to Miss May Westerland, the only daughter of Peter Westerland, who represents a very prominent and well known family of Western township. Unto this union has been born one daughter, Marion Eleanor, who is a student in the schools at Orion. The family are all members of the Lutheran church and are active in the work of the church and Sunday school.

Fraternally Dr. Magnuson is identified with Sherman Lodge, No. 535, A. F. & A. M., and with Orion Lodge, No. 686, I. O. O. F., and also holds membership with the Modern Woodmen camp and with the Royal Neighbors of America, in all of which organizations he is well known and popular. His political views are in accord with the principles of the democracy and he has figured prominently in local public affairs. He has been a member of the democratic county central committee for a number of years and has frequently been sent as a delegate to various conventions, while he has also been a member of the Orion village board. When a young man on the home farm he was highway and drainage commissioner and likewise served as census enumerator for Lynn township in 1890. In addition to his practice he is also a stockholder in both banks at Orion and is a man of affluence, who occupies a high place in the community. No history of Orion would be complete without mention of Dr. Magnuson, for he stands foremost among her valued, respected and successful representatives.

Samuel G. Wigant

The days pass busily for Samuel G. Wigant for a farm of one hundred and sixty acres claims his attention. It is situated on section 31, Cornwall township, and its attractive appearance indicates the careful supervision of its practical and progressive owner. A native of this township, he was born on section 19,

As a boy Samuel G. Wigant enjoyed the educational opportunities afforded by the district school near his home, while he acquired practical training for his future work through the assistance he rendered his father in cultivating the home farm. When he attained his majority he hired out to his father for a year, after which he married and, with the natural desire to establish a home of his own, rented some land in Burns township. He was industrious .and ambitious, and in 1895 had saved enough to enable him to purchase eighty acres in Cornwall township, where he now lives. He paid forty-seven dollars an acre for the tract and in 1900 was able to buy the eighty acres adjoining at the same price, although the land, if placed upon the market today, would bring one hundred and forty dollars per acre. Plowing, planting and harvesting largely occupy his time and with excellent results, but he has recently turned his attention to raising, feeding and shipping stock, and finds this enterprise also makes him a profitable re^ turn upon his investment of thought and labor, for he is painstaking as well as persevering, and being satisfied with only the best that can be produced and sparing no efforts to attain his ideal of excellence, finds a ready market for both his crops and his stock.