Knox County, Illinois - The whole text, 1912 (part 25 of 56)

In addition to his work on the Republican-Register Mr. Jelliff has been interested in lines of work having for their object the moral progress of the city and its material development. He was a member of the legislative council of the anti-saloon league, under whose direction the town went dry twice before the local option law was passed and in the two campaigns under that law, in 1908 and 1910, had a share in directing the battle for the "dries." In his editorial expressions he has been consistent in his support for a clean and wholesome city and for honesty and efficiency in the administration of public affairs. In the Galesburg Public Improvement Association and the Galesburg Historical Society he has served as chairman of the program committees for several years. He has also been a member of the Galesburg Hospital Board from the time of its foundation and during most of this period has been the chairman of the committee on accounts and at present is also a member of the administrative committee. While Richard Yates was governor of Illinois he appointed Mr. JelliflF a member of the Western Illinois State Normal School at Macomb and he has for ten years been a member of that board, serving some of the time as its secretary. Mr. Jelliff is a member of the Central Congregational church. For several terms he was president of the men's league of the church and he has been a member of the Young Men's Christian Association from the time he aided in its organization to the present. He was one of the organizers, with Dr. John H. Finley, now president of the Collie of the City of New York, of the Sunset Qub and during much of the time of its existence its secretary. A lover of nature, Mr. JellifJ has for years made a study of the geology of the county and has contributed several papers on this subject to teachers' institutes and local societies. His geological collection is extensive and covers a wide range of the country.

On the 25th of February, 1897, Mr. Jelliff was united in marriage to Miss Lillie C. Bassler, who was born December ii, 1860, to John and Mary (Kern) Bassler, in Galesburg, which place has always been her home with the exception of three years, from the spring of 1874 until the spring of 1877, when the family lived in Burlington, Iowa. During that period she was a student in the Burlington high school. On returning to Galesburg she entered Knox College, from which she was graduated with honor in i88i. While in college she won two prizes, a first and second, in declamation, and her talent in this direction was afterward freely given to the public at social gatherings and in the temperance work in which she has always been deeply interested. For nine years after her graduation she taught in the public schools of Galesburg and then, wishing to make further advancement in her favorite pursuit, she took a two years' course in the Boston School of Oratory under Moses True Brown, from which institution she received a diploma in 1892. Subsequently her work of teaching was confined more closely to expression, which she taught privately, also in the Galesburg high school, in the Waco (Texas) Female College and in the Oswego (Kansas) Ladies' College. Many of her pupils have taken silver, gold and grand gold medals in the Demorest temperance contests ; one received a diamond medal and another tied for the same honor. Her services as judge on declamatory and oratorical contests have been repeatedly sought and rendered. Soon after her marriage in 1897 she became a member of the Tourist Club, which she has served as secretary and president. A member of the Central Congregational church, she has always been active in its Aid Society, which she also served as president. For one year she was vice president of the Free Kindergarten Association and two of the most successful tag days ever held were due in considerable measure to her efforts. She also took an active part in two successful campaigns for a dry town and she has twice served on the committee of inspection for the Municipal Improvement Association and also on other important committees. A member of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union, her activity in its regular work has only been limited by her other obligations. The duties connected with her own home were always placed first by her. The only child born to Mr. and Mrs. Jelliff, Doretta Marie, died April 21, 1899, two days after her birth. - ;v , -.- -^ ..,-.;-. -:x-'^-.-.-^^- -. ..^--.-;. ".-..---. ^^ /-..'

It has been said when in the battle of life the city boy crosses swords with a country lad the odds are against him. The early rising, the daily tasks and the ecnomical habits of the country boy prepare him for the struggle that must precede ascendancy. William A. Jordan is numbered among those who, reared to farm life, have turned to the city for the business opportunities which they sought, and in the utilization and improvement of advantages which have come to him he has made steady advancement, bringing him at length to a most creditable and enviable position in commercial circles of Galesburg, where he is conducting an important enterprise as the senior member of the wholesale grocery firm of the W. A. Jordan Company. He was born in Guernsey county, .Ohio, June 19, 1863, a son of William N. and Margaret (Stevens) Jordan, who were also natives of that state. The family, however, was founded in New England at an early period in the colonization of the new world and Newton Jordan, the grandfather, was a native of Massachusetts. He became a farmer, utilizing that occupation in the support of his family. His wife died in early womanhood, leaving five children, William N., Israel, Tain, Lewis and Rebecca. The Stevens family is of Scotch lineage and the maternal grandparents of Mr. Jordan were Reuben and Elizabeth Stevens. The former was born in Ohio, where he died at the venerable age of ninety-four years, while his wife passed away at the age of eighty-seven. Their children were Jane, Prissey, Margaret, Ann, James, Addison and William. Of these Margaret became the wife of William N. Jordan, and they began domestic life upon a farm in Ohio. Mr, Jordan has been reared in that state and devoted much of his life to general agricultural pursuits but had also learned the stone mason's trade, which he followed in connection with farming. At the outbreak of the Civil war his patriotic nature was aroused and he enlisted, serving for four years. He was first a private in the infantry ranks and afterward became a cavalryman. When the war was over he returned to his native state, where he followed farming and also worked at the stone mason's trade until 1887, when he disposed of his business interests there and removed to Grenola. Kansas, where he carried on agricultural pursuits until 1905. In that year he retired from active business life in possession of a handsome competence, which was the merited reward of his labors. Removing to Kansas City, Missouri, he now lives there with his daughter Mrs. Coleman. His wife died in January, 1892, at the age of fiftyfour years. She was a Baptist in religious faith in her younger days but afterward went with her husband and children to the Methodist church. The family numbered beside our subject four sons and three daughters: Colonel Ellsworth Jordan, of Galesburg ; Raymond, deceased ; James L., who is living in Rollinsville, Colorado ; John H., a resident of Chanute. Kansas ; Renna, the wife of John Crother, of Grenola, Kansas ; Lizzie, the wife of Ware Sprague, of Chanute, Kansas ; and Margaret, the wife of C. L. Coleman, of Kansas City, Missouri. -v ';----" -:r,/;^^ .';-;!': v^-,- '.;-- -----' ^'.^. '--''^^^.-' .-..--

William A. Jordan spent his youthful days in Guernsey county, Ohio, remaining on his father's farm until he had attained his majority and early becoming familiar with the duties and labors incident to the cultivation of the fields. His education was acquired in the district and public schools and in 1884 he came to Galesburg, where he entered the employ of Crocker & Robbins, grocers of this city. He attended night school in Professor Barringer's Business College. For seven years he remained with the firm of Crocker & Robbins - a fact which indicates his thorough reliability and worth - and at the end of that time he was admitted to a partnership, a stock company being organized with a capital of ten thousand dollars. Mr. Jordan purchased a fifth interest in the business and became manager, but at the end of three years he resigned that position and in 1894 established his present business under the firm name of W. A. Jordan Company. He is now the president, with F. S. Johnson as sec- retary and treasurer. The enterprise was established on a small scale and they delivered goods with a cart. The next spring a second-hand delivery wagon was purchased and the family horse was used for delivery purposes. Gradually, however, the business has grown and its scope has been extended until the, house now conducts a large wholesale trade in groceries and fruits, shipping its goods to several states. Mr. Jordan is a man of resourceful business ability, ,. who has not limited his efforts to one line, for he is now a director of the E. Z. Trapp Manufacturing Company and is also financially interested in the Wagner Printing Company of Galesburg and other business projects of this city and in the Sun Tunnel, Milling & Transportation Company of Gilpin county,. Colorado.

On the i8th of November, 1890, Mr. Jordan was married to Miss Molly M. Elder, a daughter of William J. and Molly Elder, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania and are now residents of Galesburg. The father served throughout the entire period of the Civil war as a defender of the Union cause. In his family are three children who are yet living, Molly, Alto and William J. Mrs. Jordan was born at Dry Run, Pennsylvania, and by her marriage has become the mother of three sons, Qarence William, Cecil A. and Rayinond Elder. Both Mr. and Mrs. Jordan hold membership in the Eirst Methodist Episcopal church and he is serving as chairman of its board of trustees, while for sixteen years he has been superintendent of its Sunday school. He is much interested in all the departments of church work and by liberal contribution of his time and means has done much to promote the growth of the church and extend its influence. He became one of the early members of the Galesburg Club and served on the building committee that erected the present handsome clubhouse. He has attained success without allowing personal interests or ambition '.-'' to dwarf his public spirit or activities. His is the record of a strenuous life - r the record of a strong individuality, sure of itself, stable in purpose, quick in/; perception, swift in decision, and energetic and persistent in action.

Hon. Robert Clifford Rice, who since his admission to the bar has given his undivided attention to the work of the courts, his ability as advocate and counselor recommending him for election to the bench, is now serving as judge of the county court of Knox county, to which he was chosen by popular suffrage in 1906 and again in 1910, so that he is now serving for the second term. He was born in Berwick township. Warren county, Illinois, March 31, 1872, one of the three children of Harvey and Laura (Walker) Rice. His paternal grandfather was Rev. Robert Rice, a minister of the Christian church, who also devoted a portion of his time to fanning. He became an early settler of Warren county, Illinois, where he carried on agricultural pursuits and also engaged in preaching the gospel as opportunity offered. His death resulted from the effects of injuries sustained, while hauling lumber, in middle life. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Mary Iden, survived him for many years and passed away in Abingdon, Illinois, at the age of eighty-one years. They were the parents of a number of children, including Harvey, Izora, William, Perry ^ and several who died in infancy. The maternal grandfather of Judge Rice was George Walker, who also made farming his life work. He wedded Sarah Hedges and they became early residents of Warren county, where his attention was given to the work of the fields until his labors were ended by death when he was in the prime of life. His wife passed away when about sixty years of age. Their -- family numbered six children, Laura, Bird, Dottie, May and two, who died in infancy.

Harvey Rice, the father of Judge Rice, spent his youthful days in Indiana and Illinois, coming to the latter state when yet a boy and reaching his majority .- when a resident of Warren county. He early became familiar with all the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist and, after spending one year in Nebraska, in early manhood returned to Warren county, where he followed farming until his death. He was killed by lightning in 1875, when but twenty- . nine years of age. In early manhood he had wedded Laura Walker, a native .;, of this state, and the three children born unto them were : Carl, who died in in- >. fancy ; Robert Clifford ; and Eva, now the deceased wife of George Messplay. V Judge Rice is now the only survivor of his family, although his mother is still : living in Monmouth, Illinois, with the judge's stepsister. He spent his youth on the old homestead farm in his native county and through the summer months y. aided in the work of the fields, while in the winter seasons he attended the country . schools. Later he had the advantage of a course in the Abingdon Normal College, from which he was graduated with the class of 1893. He afterward engaged in teaching in the district schools for two terms and later worked at / the printer's trade on the Enterprise-Herald, of Abingdon, for a year. While ' thus engaged he devoted his evening hours to reading law under the direction - of Judge Dennis Clark, who was judge of the county court for twenty-one years, v In September, 1895, Mr. Rice came to Galesburg and entered the office of Thompson & Shumway as a student, there continuing his reading until his admission to " the bar in January, 1897. The following year he began practice in Galesburg as ; a member of the law firm of Carney, Shumway & Rice, this association being, maintained until Mr. Carney was elected mayor of the city. The two remaining partners continued together until Mr. Shumway was chosen as the chief execu- - ' tive of the city, subsequent to which time Mr. Rice pra^iced alone with goodsuccess until 1906, when he was elected county judge. An excellent presence, an earnest manner, marked strength of character, a thorough grasp of the law - and the ability to accurately apply its principles made him an effective and successful advocate and insured him equal rank with the distinguished men who have presided over the county court. Public indorsement of the first term of v service came to him in his reelection in 1910. His reported opinions indicate his legal learning and superior ability and show a thorough mastery of the questions involved, together with an admirable terseness and clearness in the statement of the principles upon which his opinions rest.

S On the I7th of April, 1901, Judge Rice was married to Miss Kathryn Gregory, of Bowling Green, Indiana, a daughter of Robert and Elizabeth (Carr) ' Gregory. Mrs. Rice was born in Bowling Green, Indiana, and her parents were ;-' also natives of that state. Her father, who served as a soldier of the Union army m the Civil war, died in 1884, but her mother is still living and yet makes her ..

home in Bowling Green. In their family were five children, Leota, Lena, Kathryn. Bertha and Gertrude, the last two of whom are deceased. Judge and Mrs. Rice have become the parents of a daughter, Dorothy. In his political views Judge Rice has always been a republican, stanchly advocating the principles of the party, yet never allowing his political preference to interfere in the slightest degree with the discharge of his official duties. He holds membership in the Christian church and his wife is a member of the Christian Science church. Fraternally he is connected with Alpha Lodge, No. 155, A. F. & A. M. and also with the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks. His entire life has been passed in this section of the state, and in Galesburg, where he has now resided for sixteen years, he has made many friends, who esteem him no less for the individuality of a personal character which impresses itself upon the community than for the superior ability he has displayed in the profession which he has chosen as his life work. . - .^ ; '.-,.--

Frederick Zina WikoflF, a lifelong resident of Knox county, spending the greater part of his years in Sparta township, represented one of the old pioneer families here and his personal record was in harmony with that of an honored and honorable ancestry. He ever followed the occupation of farming and by reason of his practical methods and progressive spirit contributed much to the general advancement along agricultural lines. He was born in Ontario, Illinois, December 27, 1846, his parents being John and Cornelia (Crane) Wikoff. The family originally bore the name of Van Wikoff and came of Dutch ancestry. John Wikoff, father of Frederick Z. Wikoff, came from New Jersey to Illinois in the fall of 1836, making the trip from Ohio on horseback. Knox county was his destination and after arriving here he entered one hundred and forty acres of land, situated on section 36, Rio township. It was just as it had come from the hand of nature, not a furrow having been turned nor an improvement made upon the place, but the soil was naturally rich and productive and responded readily to the care ancj labor which he bestowed upon it. Year after year the work of cultivation and improvement was carried forward until the farm became one of the valuable properties of that section. Thereon Mr. and Mrs. Wikoff resided for fifty-four years, celebrating their golden wedding there. In early manhood he had married Cornelia Crane, a daughter of Zina Crane, who came with his family to Knox county when Mrs. Wikoff was but fourteen years of age, making the journey from the state of New York overland in wagons. She afterward engaged in teaching school in Henderson and always strove to cultivate a love of learning among her children. She also proved a faithful companion and helpmate to her husband, aiding and encouraging him throughout his business career. The farm that John Wikoff secured on coming to Knox county is still in possession of the family, being now occupied by a son of Frederick Z. Wikoff. The old homestead is a beautiful place, having been improved by two generations and always kept in excellent condition. John Wikoff was actively interested in the public welfare and gave his aid and cooperation to many move- ments for the general good. He was at one time supervisor of Rio township and there he resided until his death, which occurred April 30, 1897, when he was eighty-four years of age. Unto him and his wife were born five children : Gertrude A., now the widow of Hiram Colby ; Frederick Z., of this review ; Harriet E., the wife of G. H. Pratt ; Carrie F., the wife of S. T. Howell ; and Mary M., the wife of O. Oliver, now deceased.

Frederick Z. WikoflF spent his entire life in Knox county, being reared upon the old homestead farm, where he was early trained to habits of industry, economy and integrity. He acquired his education in Knox and Hedding Colleges and the intellectual development thus stimulated constituted a chief source of his success. His entire life was devoted to general agricultural pursuits and he became the owner of a fine farm in Knox county, in the cultivation of which he was very successful, adding thereto many improvements.

On the i6th of September, 1874, Mr. Wikoff was united in marriage to Miss Ida M. Conger, a daughter of John N. and Elizabeth (Wheeler) Conger. Her grandfather, Uzziah Conger, came to Knox county, in 1838, and settled in Cherry Grove. He married Hannah West and they lived to celebrate their golden wedding. Their son, John N. Conger, was a native of New York and, having arrived at years of maturity, wedded Elizabeth Wheeler, a native of Connecticut and a daughter of Alvah and Jerusha (Stevens) Wheeler who on leaving New England removed from Connecticut to Knoxville, Illinois, in 1838. Mr. Wheeler was a carpenter by trade and assisted in building the first courthouse in Knox county. It was their daughter Elizabeth who became the wife of John N. Conger, who was one of the early settlers of the county and is mentioned elsewhere in this volume. Their daughter Ida became the wife of Mr. WikoflF and to them were born four children who are living: Winn C. ; Gem, who is now the wife of W. B. Nelson ; John N. ; and Cornelia. They also lost a child. The death of Mr. Wikoflf occurred March lo, 1905. when he was but fifty-eight years of age. He had spent the greater part of his life in Sparta township and no one of the community was more widely known or more highly respected. His political allegiance was given to the republican party and he was ever a public-spirited citizen, interested in the welfare and upbuilding of county, state and nation. He attended the Baptist church and was ever a kindly and generous man, whose heart went out in ready response to all who needed assistance, while his beneficent spirit was manifest in many tangible ways. He did not seek to figure prominently in the public life of the community, but his genuine personal worth gained him high regard so that his death was deeply deplored not only by his immediate family, among whom he was ever a devoted husband and father, but also by the many friends whom he had won during his long residence in Knox county. ; ^ . ; .

James D. O'Connor

James D. O'Connor, engaged in a general contracting business in Galesburg, his native city, was born January 31. 1872, a son of James and Margaret (Ryan) O'Connor. The father was a native of Lebanon, New York, while the mother was born in County Limerick, Ireland, whence she was brought to the United

: nor came to Galesburg and in early manhood was here engaged in the livery business, while later he figured prominently in real-estate circles, winning along

On the 28th of October, 1897, Mr. O'Connor was married in this city to Miss Louisa Hurley, a daughter of John and Sarah Hurley, of Galesburg. They now have two children: Ruth, whose natal day was October 22, 1898; and Fred, whose birth occurred on the iQth of November, 1899. Both were born in Galesburg. The parents are communicants of the Catholic church and in politics Mr. O'Connor has followed in his father's footsteps, maintaining an independent position, supporting such measures as he deems effective forces in good government and such candidates as he believes will prove loyal to the public trust. He has himself served as alderman from the first ward during the past four years and exercises his official prerogatives in support of many progressive movements for the general good.

James H. Roundtree is a retired farmer living at No. 860 North Cedar street, in Galesburg. He has made his home in the city since 1892, previous to which time he was closely associated with general agricultural pursuits and is still the owner of a valuable farm of one hundred and ninety-six acres from which he derives a substantial annual income. He was born at Old Henderson, in this county, December lo, 1836, and is a son of John D. and Docia (Fuqua) Roundtree, both of whom were natives of Virginia. The former was a son of Dudley Roundtree, who was bom in the Old Dominion and became an early settler of Hart county, Kentucky, where he died when well advanced in years. He was

States by her parents when three years old. In his boyhood days James O'Connor came to Galesburg and in early manhood was here engaged in the livery business, while later he figured prominently in real-estate circles, winning along those lones the success that now enables him to live retired, his home being at No. 173 West Main street. He is an independent voter, standing for progress and improvement rather than for partisanship, and his fellow townsmen, appreciative of his worth and ability, several times elected him to represent the second ward as alderman. He was also a member of the board of appraisers. He belongs to the Catholic church and is a member of the Knights of Columbus, the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and the Galesburg Club. His wife died in November, 1904. In the family were si.x children : Martin, who is a resident of Galesburg, Illinois; Mary, deceased: James D., of this review: Lillian, the wife of C. H. Nold, of St. Joseph, Missouri: Alice, the wife of W. C. Johnson, of Galesburg: and Fred, who has passed away. ]

In St. Joseph's Academy James D. O'Connor pursued his early education', and afterward attended Notre Dame University of South Bend, Indiana. Throughout the entire period of his connection with business affairs he has engaged in general contracting, putting in a large portion of the sewers of this city and doing much other public work which has i)laced him in a substantial position among the industrious, enterprising and successful business men of the city. He has ever realized that energ}- is the basis of business advancement and has diligently and persistently prosecuted his work so that substantial results have been achieved.

On the 28th of October, 1897, Mr. O'Connor was married in this city to Miss Louisa Hurley, a daughter of John and Sarah Hurley, of Galesburg. They now have two children : Ruth, whose natal day was October 22, 1898 : and Fred, whose birth occurred on the iQth of November, 1899. Both were born in Galesburg. The parents are communicants of the Catholic church and in politics Mr. O'Connor has followed in his father's footsteps, maintaining an independent position, supporting such measures as he deems effective forces in good government and such candidates as he believes will prove loyal to the public trust. He has himself served as alderman from the first ward during the past four years and exercises his official prerogatives in support of many progressive movements for the general good.

Jamfs H. Roundtref

James H. Roundtree is a retired farmer living at No. 860 North Cedar street, in Galesburg. He has made his home in the city since 1892, previous to which time he was clo.sely associated with general agricultural pursuits and is still the owner of a valuable farm of one hundred and ninety-six acres from which he derives a substantial annual income. He was l)orn at Old Henderson, in this county, December lo, 1836, and is a son of John D. and Docia (Fuqua) Roundtree, both of whom were natives of \'irginia. The former was a son of Dudley Roundtree, who was bom in the Old Dominion and became an early settler of Hart county, Kentucky, where he died when well advanced in years. He was blind for twenty years before he died. Unto him and his wife were born four sons Turner, John D., Charles and Dudley. The maternal jjrandfather of [ames Roundtree was James Fuqua, a native of Virginia and a farmer by occupation. He died in Kentucky but the mother came to Knox county, Illinois, in 1830, settling near Old Henderson, and there died when about eighty years of age. They were the parents of six daughters and three sons, Daniel,:;. Obadiah, John, Docia, Martha, Mary, Jane, Narcissus and Jeremiah.

Both of the parents of James H. Roundtree on leaving Virginia became resi- ,-^ dents of Hart county, Kentucky, and in 1830 came to Knox county, Illinois, settling near Old Henderson, in Henderson township. The father purchased land warrants of the soldiers, who had served in the war of 1812. The Indians were then numerous here, for the Black Hawk war had not yet occurred and the red men had not learned that their white- faced orothers were the stronger in an / effort to claim the country and convert it to the uses of civilization. When : the Indians became troublesome and, in fact, were a menace to life in this state : John D. Roundtree joined with the volunteer soldiers for service in the Black Hawk war and after his death his wife drew a pension of about six or eight dollars a month. He purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land and later another one hundred and twenty acres, all of which he improved and thereon ;r,'i reared his family. He was born in i8cx3 and died about 1851. His wife afterward removed to Marshall county, Kansas, settling near Frankfort, and died about 1896 at a very advanced age, lacking but three weeks of being ninety- four {.- years. In their family were twelve children, of whom five are now living: v ; Betsy, the widow of Robert Osborn, living at Frankfort, Kansas; Dudley, of --'-'- Oldsburg, Pottawatomie county, Kansas ; James H., of this review ; Narcissus, -. the wife of Lathan Howe, of Old Henderson; and William, of Paradise, Kansas. ;;

James H. Roundtree spent his youthful days in this county and is the oldest '-i'-' continuous resident here with the exception of Harvey Montgomery, having spent seventy-five years in this county. He was reared upon his father's farm --^ and attended one of the old-time subscription schools. He was only thirteen . years of age at the time of his father's death and upon him devolved the ; responsibility of managing and operating the farm. As time passed on, he J purchased parts of the old homestead until he eventually became the owner of the greater part which, however, he afterward sold. He next purchased a farm of sixty-six acres near Wataga, and traded with his father-in-law for :\ another farm. This he in time sold and removed to Wataga, where he resided until 1892, when he went to Galesburg and in the following year erected his .- present residence, where he and his wife have since resided, enjoying a well , earned rest there. He now owns a farm of one hundred and ninety-six acres in '- . Sparta township and this returns to him a good income. This farm once sold -- for fifteen dollars an acre but is now worth two hundred and twenty-five dollars. While devoting his energies to agricultural pursuits, his time and endeavors were so well employed that he derived therefrom the merited reward of earnest, per- '-- sistent labor and thus accumulated a handsome competence that now supplies him with all of the comforts and many of the luxuries of life. :; . ^.--' ." ;

On the iQth of December, i86i, Mr. Roundtree was married to Miss Nancy _ Ann Duval, who was born in Henderson township, this county. May ig, 1844, - a daughter of Thomas and Nancy (Shumate) Duval, who came from Kentucky to Illinois about 1831, settling first near Monmouth and later removing to Hen-" derson township, where Mrs. Roundtree grew to womanhood. Her father died September 29, 1891, at the age of eighty-two years and her mother passed away ; in 1888, when eighty years of age. They were the parents of ten children, of whom four are living, Mary, Helen, Martha and Nancy Ann. Mr. and Mrs. -fU Roundtree were married in the old courthouse in Knoxville. They have no chil- ;-.-;. dren of their own but adopted a daughter, Lillian May, whom they reared from-; . - - the age of three weeks. She is now the wife of Frank S. Card, and they resided for a while in I>enver, Colorado, whence they lately removed to Riverside county, ''J . - California. - ' :,:

It was on the i9th of December, 1911, that James and Nancy. Ann Roundtree ':- J: could look back upon fifty years of life companionship and celebrated their golden ";/'-". wedding at their home. No. 860 North Cedar street, Galesburg, at which time v they received many beautiful gifts and the good wishes of a host of devoted :''

.: Mr. and Mrs. Roundtree are members of the Christian church and his politi- ,-;---. cal support is given to the democratic party. It is most interesting to converse ' with this worthy couple and hear their reminiscences concerning Knox county in its pioneer period. He is acquainted with all the events of importance which : ;/: ' have left their impress upon the history of the county and has been a witness ''...',. of many of these. He has participated in the agricultural development of the: "; county and has seen its transformation from a wild and sparsely settled district ; - into one of the most populous and prosperous portions of the state. He can re- i; ' member the time when many of the homes were log cabins with their great fire- ' . places and their tallow candles; when much of the farm work was done by hand -- according to methods that had been in vogue for centuries. He has lived to see \ marked changes in the methods of farming as the cultivator, the reaper, the rid- .' - ' ing plow, the harvester and the thresher have been introduced, relieving man :, f - of the most trying and arduous work of the fields. In his own farming methods :::';. he kept pace with the general progress and his success came as the merited reward of his labor. No history of Knox county would be complete without the sketch of James H. Roundtree who, as previously stated, is with two exceptions the oldest continuous resident of this locality. ;; ,.. -' ; ; .. ;.i > ; -

The record of Frank E. Wilson is that of an enterprising, reliable business man who has ever recognized the fact that industry and close application are indispensable forces of success and has, therefore, used them in attaining his present position in financial circles. He is president of the Knox County State Bank of Knoxville, in which connection he is conducting a business Si considerable extent and importance, the bank being situated in the midst of a rich agricultural region. Mr. Wilson is widely known because of his long residence here, his birth having occurred in Truro township, Knox county, January 12, 1868. He was the third in order of birth in a family of four children, whose parents, John and Mary (King) Wilson, were natives of Westmoreland county, Virginia, and of Ohio respectively. The former was a son of Jacob and Jane (Calhoun) Wilson, both natives of Virginia, the latter having been a cousin of John C. Calhoun, the distinguished statesman. They had five children, John, Solomon, William, Jacob and Jane. The maternal grandfather of Frank E. Wilson was an Ohio farmer, who with his family removed westward to Knox county, Illinois, making the journey overland with an ox team. They settled in the eastern part of Knox county among its pioneer citizens and took active and helpful part in the work of later development and improvement, both dying there when welJ advanced in years. They had a large family, including James ; William ; Mrs. Jane Ellsworth ; Mrs. Catharine Nicholson, who still lives in Knox county ; Mary, who became Mrs. Wilson ; Mrs. Matilda Ellsworth, now deceased ; and Mrs. Peggy Nelson.

John Wilson was but a young lad when he accompanied his parents on their removal from Virginia to Greene county, Ohio, where he grew to manhood. He then sought the opportunities of a less thickly settled district and became one of the early residents of Knox county, Illinois, where he purchased a farm of eighty acres in Truro township. For a number of years he continued its development but sold out in 1875 and removed to Knox township, where he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land, making it his home for a long period. His labors converted the place into a very productive tract, from which he annually gathered rich harvests. There he lived until September, 1893. when he died at the age of seventy-seven years, and his wife's death occurred in 1907, when she had reached the age of seventy-two years. Both were consistent Christian people, holding membership in the Presbyterian church, and Mr. Wilson also capably filled a number of township offices. Ere his marriage to Mary King he had wedded Miss Isabella Hogue, and unto them were bom six children, namely: James P., now living in Topeka, Kansas ; Gracetta, the wife of ]ohn Lucas, also of Topeka ; John H., of Knoxville ; Jacob, of Unionville, Iowa ; William, of Oskaloosa, Kansas ; and one deceased. The four children of the second marriage are : Dal, who died when a year old ; Effie J., the wife of Charles Wyman, of Knoxville, Illinois; Frank E. ; and Lee Chalmer Wilson. :. v . i-.v,

No event of special importance occurred to vary the routine of farm life for Frank E. Wilson in the days of his boyhood and youth. He worked in the fields under his father's direction and also gave a portion of his time to the acquirement of his education in the district schools and in the public schools of Knoxville. His more specifically commercial training was obtained in the Gem City Business College of Quincy, Illinois, of which he is a graduate. - The first year thereafter he remained upon his father's farm and in the following winter engaged in teaching school. He then went to Pueblo, Colorado, where he engaged in keeping books for a printing and publishing house but later returned to Knox county and became cashier of what was then the Farmers Bank of Yates City, filling that position for twelve years. He next located in Knoxville and associated with C. M. Corbin and Mrs. Nettie J. Corbin, conducting a private bank for three or four years. In 1906 this was reorganized into the Knox County State Bank, of which Mr. Wilson has since been the president, while Marcus Burnsides is now vice president and R. R. Collins cashier. The bank was organized with a capital stock of fifty thousand dollars and the surplus amounts to fourteen thousand dollars. ^;' -> ^^: "V :' :'^'-':;: ---- ^- '--

Mr. Wilson was married October 31, 1894, to Miss Kate M. Collins, whose birth occurred in Persifer township, this county, her parents being Edward and Hannah (Young) Collins, natives of Ohio and Illinois respectively. Their family numbered seven children : Kate M. ; Robert R. ; Ella G. ; Rolland E. ; Jessie M. ; Bertha, the wife of Raymond Sapp ; and Nellie F. The paternal grandfather of Mrs. Wilson was Michael Collins, a native of Ireland, and unto him and his wife were born a number of children, including Michael, Peter, Thomas, John, Margaret and Kate. The maternal grandparents were Robert and Mary Young, natives of Ohio, and the former devoted his life to farming, thus supporting his family, which numbered Edward J., John R., Hannah E., Robert L., Ella and three who died in childhood. . ^ - ' '; -' ;r :' :^\ ;' I, --'."-.'

The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Wilson has been blessed with two daughters, Miriam E. and Hortense E. The parents are well known in Knoxville and this part of the state and have an extensive circle of warm friends, while their own home is justly celebrated for its cordial hospitality. Mr. Wilson belongs to Yates City Lodge, No. 448, F. & A. M. ; Raboni Chapter, No. 95, R. A. M.. of which he has been high priest for a number of years; and Illinois Council, No. i, R. & S. M. His study of the political issues and questions of the day has led him to give his support to the democratic party and he has filled some local offices, serving as town clerk and also as president of the village board of Yates City.\-. - It is characteristic of him that he has ever been loyal to a trust reposed in him, discharging his duties to the best of his ability - and that ability is of no inferior order. He is equally faithful to the trusts reposed in him as a business man and has established his bank upon a broad and safe foundation, built of progressive methods, which are evenly balanced by a safe conservatism, close application, unfaltering determination and strictly honorable methods.

George D. Crocker, for many years a leading merchant of Galesburg, associated for almost a half century with the grocery trade of the city and now extensively and successfully operating in the field of real estate, was bom in Henderson county, Illinois, July 12, 1845. His parents were F. O. and Mary (Brimhall) Crocker, the former a native of Maine and the latter of New York. They were married in Indiana and came to Illinois about 1843, settling in Henderson county, near Oquawka. Upon a farm there they resided for thirteen years and in March, 1856, came to Knox county, establishing their home in Galesburg. Here the father opened a grocery store, which he conducted during the remainder of his active business life, retiring, however, several years prior to his death, which occurred in 1888. His wife survived him for some time, passing away about 1901. Their' family numbered three children but the two daughters, Oricy and Emma, both died after reaching womanhood. | .- - ;..>:.

George D. Crocker, the only surviving member of the family, was a pupil in the schools of Galesburg and completed his education in Lombard College. He made his initial step in the business world as assistant to his father in the grocery trade and, when well trained by this preliminary experience, he opened a grocery store of his own, where the Arlington Hotel now stands, this hotel having been built by Mr. Crocker and his partner, W. A. Robbins. The grocery store was established in 1866 and was conducted successfully for thirty-three years. They enjoyed a constantly growing trade and their establishment was ranked with the foremost enterprises of the kind in Galesburg throughout that entire period. When about a quarter of a century had passed Mr. Crocker turned his attention to the real-estate business, buying and selling property. He is now a large owner of farm lands in North Dakota, near Fargo, situated in the midst of the fertile Red River valley. He was also at one time greatly interested in Illinois farm lands. His real-estate investments have been most carefully and judiciously made and have brought to him the success which is the merited reward of indefatigable labor and sound judgment.

On the 22d of February, 1867, Mr. Crocker was married to Miss Gertrude Comstock, a daughter of Abner and Agnes Comstock and a native of Warren county, Illinois, bom March i6, 1849. They have become parents of three children: Frank W., who was bom in 1868 and is now in the office of the Automatic Telephone Company at Los Angeles, California ; Mabel, who is the wife of E. J. Dickson, of Springfield, Massachusetts ; and George Leslie, who is associated with his father in business and resides in North Dakota, having charge of their interests in that state, which include a ranch covering three sections devoted to the raising of grain.

Mr. Crocker and his family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. His political allegiance is given to the republican party and, although not an office seeker, he has served as alderman of the fifth ward and always keeps well informed on the questions and issues of the day. He is a member of the Galesburg Club, and he and his family are widely and favorably known in this city, theirs being one of the attractive and hospitable homes, which is always a favorite resort with those who are most prominent socially in Galesburg. _ . , .

George Williams, who at different times was connected with commercial and industrial interests in Galesburg, had a most excellent record both as a man and citizen. As a soldier, too, his course was most commendable, for on southern battle fields he proved his loyalty to the Union cause. His birth occurred in Mount Vernon, Ohio, April 3, 1831, his parents being Mr. and Mrs. Robert Williams, who were residents of Mount Vemon, where they remained for a long period. The son spent his youthful days under the parental roof and was indebted to the public-school system of that district for the educational advantages he enjoyed. On the I2th of March, 1856, being then about twentyfive years of age, he was married to Miss Eliza J. Marble, a daughter of J. H. Marble, a resident of Mount Vernon. Three days later they left Ohio for Knox county, making their way at once to Galesburg where Mr. Williams thereafter resided, save for a period of two years spent as a soldier of the Civil war. He enlisted as a member of the One hundred and eighth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, became drum major and was on active duty at Arkansas Post, at Haines Bluff

On first becoming a resident of this city Mr. Williams established a shoe store which he conducted for many years, enjoying a good trade in that direction. In later years he conducted a dairy business and found it also a source of gratifying income and profit. In all of his business dealings he was thoroughly reliable and enjoyed the confidence and regard of his fellow townsmen in an unusual degree.

As the years passed by three children were bom unto Mr. and Mrs. Williams: Walter W., who lives in Galesburg; Flora B., deceased; and G. W., who makes his home in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Mr. Williams took an active interest in Masonry and was an exemplary representative of the craft. He was also much interested in politics and for a number of years was a stanch supporter of the peoples' party or, as it is now known, the populist party. He adhered closely to its principles and doctrines and always kept thoroughly informed on the vital questions of the day. Few men outside of politics had a broader or more correct knowledge of the many questions which he studied from every possible standpoint. He was a firm believer in the power of the government to issue money and was one of the earliest to advocate that idea. At different times he served his party on various committees and was a leader in all of its movements. At local elections he voted with the prohibition party and was ever a stalwart champion of the cause of temperance and of all those activities which tend to uplift the individual and the community at large. Death called him on the I5th of January, 1905, and thus when almost seventy-four years of age he passed away. He had ever been loyal to his honest convictions and his word no man had ever questioned. His life was in many respects worthy of emulation and wherever known he enjoyed the regard and good-will of those with whom he came in contact.

Hox. Leon A. Townsend

. - Hon. Leon A. Townsend has been closely associated with financial affairs in Galesburg since 1891. not only through his connection with banking interests but also as county treasurer. In both connections he has made a most creditable record and his business advancement has its root in his ability to coordinate and utilize all the forces at hand, combined with the most thorough and reliable business methods. He was born at Avon, Fulton county, Illinois, October 13, 1854, a son of Robert W. and Rachel Virginia (Terry) Townsend. The father was born in St. Lawrence county. New York, November ii, 1820, and after pursuing his education there turned his attention to mercantile lines, continuing in business in the Empire state until about 1842, when he removed westward to Troy, Illinois. There he worked in a store for a time but in 1853 he established business on his own account in Avon, where he remained for fourteen years. In 1869 he opened a bank in that town and was active and successful in its management and control until 1875, when he retired from business life with a handsome competence that had been won through his earnest and care- fully directed efforts. In every relation his life was one of usefulness and of worth. In politics he was a republican and served as deputy revenue collector at Avon. Both he and his wife were members of the Universalist church. The latter was born in Chestnut township, Knox county, Illinois, November 9, 1837, and is still living at Avon but the death of Mr. Townsend occurred there August 17, 1904. Their son, Leon A. Townsend, is the eldest of a family of seven children, the others being: Hettie, now the Wife of W. B. Tompkins, of Quincy; Harry F. living in Avon ; Fannie V., the wife of George A. Tompkins, of Avon ; Grace, the widow of Walter M. Jay, of the same place ; Grant, a resident of Galesburg; and Lillian, the wife of George Schneider, also of Avon.

After attending the public schools of his native town Leon A. Townsend further pursued his education in Lombard College of Galesburg, and then made his initial step in the business world in connection with banking, entering the Avon Exchange Bank as cashier. There he remained until 1875, when he went to Herman, Illinois, where he engaged in merchandising until 1893. I" that year he removed to Galesburg, having two years before been elected to the office of county treasurer for a four-years' term. He was a capable and faithful custodian of the public funds and retired from office as he had entered it, with the confidence and good-will of all concerned. This was in 1895 and the same year he entered the Farmers & Mechanics Bank of Galesburg as cashier, retaining that connection with the institution for thirteen years. In 1908 he was elected to the presidency of the bank and in this position of control he is bending his efforts to administrative direction. The progressive methods of the bank are tempered by a safe conservatism and the management realizes the fact that the bank is most apt to win success that most carefully safeguards the interests of its depositors. This course has ever been followed by the Farmers & Mechanics Bank and thus the institution has been enabled to stand unweakened through periods of great financial stress. Mr. Townsend is also interested to some extent in farming, owning some good property.

In May, 1877, occurred the marriage of Leon A. Townsend and Miss Christina Woods, a daughter of DeWitt C. and Katherine (McGowan) Woods, of Avon, Illinois. Her father was born in Clinton county. New Y<ork, while her mother was a native of Scotland. He made farming his life work and in his boyhood he became a resident of Avon where he lived for many years, passing away there in 1893. His widow still survives and yet makes her home in that village. His political faith was that of the republican party and his religious belief was that of the Universalist church. He was always loyal to every cause which he believed to be right and nothing could swerve him from the path of duty that he was conscientiously following. Unto him and his wife were bom a son and two daughters : Mrs. Townsend, whose birth occurred in Avon, February 5, 1854; Lou, the wife of W. S. Bliss, of Avon; and Ernest C., who is living in Pontiac, Illinois. Mr. and Mrs. Townsend now have three children: Lora, the wife of Frederick Dickinson, of Winnetka, Illinois, and the mother of a daughter, Dorothy ; Nellie, who is the wife of Everett Hinchliff, a lumberman of Galesburg, and the mother of one child, Virginia ; and Fern, at home. Both Mr. and Mrs. Townsend hold membership in the Universalist church and he belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Modern Woodmen of America and the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks. Never faltering in his allegiance to the republican party he has done much to promote its success and has been called to various public offices, serving as supervisor for eleven years, as township clerk for two years, as county treasurer for four years, as state senator for eight years and as United States marshal for five years. Thus duties of an important character have devolved upon him in which connection he has ever proved himself loyal to the general good, placing the welfare of the commonwealth before self-aggrandizement and at no time regarding public office as a personal asset. Regarded as a citizen and in his social relations he belongs to that public-spirited, useful and helpful type of men whose motives and desires are centered and directed in those channels through which flows the greatest and most permanent good to the greatest number.

> Webb A. Herlocker is one of the younger representatives of the Galesburg - bar and yet his comparative youth does not seem to interpose a limit upon his progress and success for he is now accorded a clientage that many an older -'. practitioner might well envy. At the outset of his career, however, he recognized the fact that he was entering upon a profession wherein advancement can only be secured through individual merit and ability.

Mr. Herlocker was born in Milford, Missouri, May 27, i88i, his parents .' being Daniel A. and Florence Emma (Earp) Herlocker. The father was born ' in the southeast part of McDonough county, Illinois, April 27, 1851, and the mother's birth occurred in Blandensville in the same county. May 21. 1858. '. Daniel A. Herlocker pursued his education in the public schools of his native county and afterward attended the Christian College at Abingdon. He after- . ward engaged in teaching school for a few years in McDonough county and then . entered the drug business at Sciota, Illinois, where he remained until 1884. In 5 that year he was appointed deputy clerk of the circuit court and removed to Macomb, Illinois, filling the position for four years. On the expiration of . that period he became a resident of Table Grove, Fulton county, Illinois, where he again engaged in the drug business until about 1905, when he retired. He still makes his home in that town but is not connected with commercial or other ' : business interests at the present time. He votes with the democratic party which ' he has always supported by his ballot and influence and, aside from serving as -' deputy court clerk, he has been village clerk, a member of the village board , of trustees and school director. He and his wife are members of the Universalist church and their well spent lives commend them to the confidence and ^ high regard of all. It was on the 2ist of May, 1876, in Blandensville that they : were married and unto them have been born three children, Webb A., Ward > G. and Emma Wynette. The last two are twins and were born at Sciota, June :

Webb A. Herlocker largely acquired his education in the public schools of Table Grove and later entered the Lombard University, from which he was .

graduated with the class of 1903. He next entered the Valparaiso University \ Law School at Valparaiso, Indiana, and completed his course with the class ' . - x. of 1907. He then came to Galesburg and entered into partnership with Charles . ^ S. Harris, this relation continuing until 1908, when the partnership was dis- ; ,. , solved and Mr. Herlocker has since remained alone in general practice of his profession. He carefully and systematically prepares his cases and presents ;; - his cause in clear and forceful manner, his deductions following in logical :, sequence. : -.^"

Mr. Herlocker is pleasantly situated in his home life, having been married on the 28th of April, 1910, to Miss Fannie Porter, a daughter of Horace G. J and Eldora (Carter) Porter, of DeLand, Illinois. The only child of this mar- ... riage is Robert D., who was born in Galesburg, April lo, 1911. , .^ has always been done in other connections rather than as an office-holder. He ' belongs to the Universalist church, to the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and to the Modern Woodmen camp. He likewise belongs to the Sigma Nu. a college fraternity, and to the Galesburg Club. He was manager of the Lombard University Review and also president of the Erosophian Literary Society during his college days, and was on the Varsity baseball team, of which he v was captain for a year. He was likewise a delegate to the Delta Theta chapter for the Sigma Nu fraternity at the grand chapter at New Orleans, Louisiana, ; v in 1904. He was president of the junior class at Valparaiso University and ' played baseball there for two years, being captain of the team during the senior year. He has ever been interested in athletics and manly outdoor sports and .,. thus preserves an even balance in his physical and mental development. His interests are wide and varied and bring him into close connection with many ; activities, all of which are commendable forces in a well rounded character. . ': -

No history of Knox county would be complete without extended reference to James Sherman Allen, who is now seventy-five years of age and has spent the greater part of his life in this locality, his memory forming a connecting link between the primitive past with all of its hardships and privations and the progressive present with its opportunities and advantages. He was born in Oneida county. New York, October 22, 1836, and is a son of Sheldon William and Fidelia (Leach) Allen, who are mentioned at length on another page of this vollume, in connection with the sketch of their son, Albert H. Allen. James S. Allen can remember nothing concerning the trip to the west for he was only a year and a half old when the father brought his wife and children to Illinois, driving across the country by team. It was a long and arduous journey and after arriving here there were many privations to be met which are always incident to pioneer life.

James S. Allen shared with the family in the usual experiences incident to settlement upon the frontier and in the acquirement of his education he attended the common schools of Galesburg and also Knox College. He early became familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist for he worked with his father in the fields from an early age and also assisted him in the butchering business, cutting the first round stead in Galesburg. He continued with his father until he had attained his majority and then came into possession of one-half of the butchering business, his partner in the enterprise being Gideon Prentice. They were associated in the conduct of a meat market until 1875, when they sold out to Mr. Allen's brothers. He then turned his attention to general farming and to the buying and shipping of stock, being associated in the latter undertaking with A. W. Ferris and H. P. Berglin. In 1886 Mr. Allen removed to Russell county, Kansas, where he again followed farming for a period of fourteen years, or until 1900. In 1901 he returned to Galesburg and has since lived retired, the success which he had attained in his former labors providing amply all of the necessities and comforts of life.

On the 29th of May, 1858, Mr. Allen had married Miss Amy S. Mitchell, a daughter of John and Bethany (Lee) Mitchell who were then residents of Galesburg, but were natives of Dutchess county. New York. They came to this city at an early day and the father made farming his life work. Both he and his wife are now deceased. Mrs. Allen, who was born in Galesburg, was called to her final rest on the 9th of January, 1890, while living in Russell county, Kansas, and her loss was an almost irreparable blow to her husband, for they had traveled life's journey together for almost a third of a century. Mrs. Allen was a devoted member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Allen votes with the prohibition party, which indicates his position concerning the temperance question. He regards the use of intoxicants as one of the grave evils of the country and does all in his power to prevent their further use. In fact, his influence has ever been on the side of progress and improvement, of reform and advancement. As one of the pioneer settlers of this county he has witnessed a wonderful transformation here. Much of the land was still unimproved and uncultivated at the time of his arrival and he can remember when the prairies presented one dazzling unbroken sheet of snow during the winter months, while in June they were starred with millions of wild flowers. In all the work that has brought about modern progress and improvement he has been much interested and has aided to the extent of his ability in the development and growth of the county. He can relate many interesting incidents of the early days and is an authority on various matters of history.

Judge J. D. Welsh

Judge J. D. Welsh, a distinguished member of the Knox county bar, well merits the success and honor that has come to him in this connection, for he has ever been careful to conform his practice to a high standard of professional ethics and, while he has given to his client the service of well developed talent, unwearied industry and broad learning, he never forgets that there are certain things due to the court, to his own self-respect and above all to justice and a righteous administration of the law which neither the zeal of an advocate the coiiinion scliools of Galesburg and also Knox College. Me early became familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist for he worked with his father in the fields from an early age and also assisted him in the butchering business, cutting the first round stead in Galesburg. He continued with his father until he had attained his majority and then came into possession of one-half of the butchering business, his partner in the enterprise being Gideon Prentice. They were associated in the conduct of a meat market until 1875, when they sold out to Mr. Allen's brothers. He then turned his attention to general farming and to the buying and shipping of stock, being associated in the latter undertaking with A. \\'. Ferris and H. 1'. Berglin. In 1886 Mr. Allen removed to Russell county. Kansas, where he again followed farming for a period of fourteen years, or until 1900. In 1901 he returned to Galesburg and has since lived retired, the success which he had attained in his former labors providing amply all of the necessities and comforts of life.

On the 29th of May, 1858, Mr. Allen had married Miss .\my S. Mitchell, a daughter of John and Bethany (Lee) Mitchell who were then residents of Galesburg. but were natives of Dutchess county. Xew York. They came to this city at an early day and the father made farming his life work. Both he and his wife are now deceased. Mrs. Allen, who was torn in Galesburg. was called to her final rest on the 9th of January. 1890. while living in Russell county, Kansas, and her loss was an almost irreparable blow to her husband, for they had traveled life's journey together for almost a third of a century. Mrs. Allen was a devoted member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Allen votes with the prohibition party, which indicates his position concerning the temperance question. He regards the use of intoxicants as one of the grave evils of the country and does all in his power to prevent their further use. In fact. his influence has ever been on the side of progress and improvement, of reform and advancement. As one of the pioneer settlers of this county he has witnessed a wonderful transformation here. Much of the land was still unimproved and uncultivated at the time of his arrival and he can remember when the prairies presented one dazzling unbroken sheet of snow during the winter months, while in June they were starred with millions of wild Howers. In all the work that has brought about modern j^rogress and improvement he has been much interested and has aided to the extent of his ability in the development and growth of the county. He can relate many interesting incidents of the early days and is an authority on various matters of history.

Judge J. D. Welsh, a distinguished member of the Knox county bar. well merits the success and honor that has come to him in this connection, for he has ever been careful to conform his practice to a high standard of professional ethics and. while he has given to his client the service of well developed talent, unwearied industry and broad learning, he never forgets that there are certain things due to the court, to his own self-respect and above all to justice and a righteous administration of the law which neither the zeal of an advocate nor the pleasure of success permits him to disregard. He is now a member of the firm of Williams, Lawrence, Welsh, Green & McFarland, having entered upon this connection since his retirement from the county bench.

Judge Welsh was bom in a log cabin in Truro township, this county, September lO, 1858, a son of Michael Welsh and a grandson of William Welsh. The latter was a farmer of Ireland, where he died when more than seventyfive years of age. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Mary Hoben, passed away in middle life. Their family numbered three sons, Edward, Richard and Michael. The last named was born and reared in Ireland and pursued his education there. He came to the new world when a young man of twenty years, arriving in 1850, and, making his way into the interior of the country, he settled at Maquon, Illinois, where he followed the occupation of farming. In 1853, however, he removed to Truro township, Knox county, where he purchased and improved a farm, making it his home for more than a half century. He won a creditable position among the industrious and progressive agriculturists of the community and his fellow townsmen, appreciative of his worth and ability, called him to a number of local offices. He served as justice of the peace for twenty years and made the notable record of never having an appeal from his decisions - such was the fairness and impartiality of his opinions. He was also collector and assessor for a number of terms and served as school trustee. He married Catharine Grace, who, like her husband, was born in County Kilkenny, Ireland. Her parents were John and Catharine Grace, farming people of Ireland, where both passed away. They had a large family, which included John, Catharine, Stacia and others whose names are not remembered. Unto the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Welsh there were born seven children : William M., now residing in Williamsfield, Illinois ; Alice, the wife of David Cloonen, of Zearing, Iowa ; Benonia P., also a resident of Williamsfield ; J. D. : Jay. who makes his home in Williamsfield ; M. M., a practicing physician of Odell, Illinois ; and Mary, the wife of Richard Judge, of Pontiac, Illinois. The parents were both members of the Catholic church and passed away in that faith, the mother's death occurring six months prior to the demise of her husband on the 28th of July, 1908. He was then seventy-seven years of age and in his passing the county lost one of its worthy and respected pioneer farmers.

Judge Welsh was reared on the old homestead in Truro township and early became familiar with the work of tilling the fields. After attending the district schools he was sent to Lombard College, from which he was graduated in the class of 1885. Subsequently he attended the law school of the Illinois Wesleyan University at Bloomington and in June, 1887, was admitted to the bar. He located for practice in Springfield, Missouri, where he remained for two years, and then came to Galesburg, where he has since followed his profession as an active practitioner save that for four years he was county judge, filling the office from December, 1902, until December, 1906. In his practice from 1890 until 1895 he was associated with George W. Prince and in August of the latter year entered into partnership with E. P. Williams and George A. Lawrence under the firm name of Williams, Lawrence & Welsh. At the same time there were associated with them E. N. and Guy P. Williams and the present style of the firm is Williams, Lawrence, Welsh, Green & McFarland, F. O. McFarland having been admitted to the firm relationship. During his practice Judge Welsh has conducted important litigation in the federal and state courts with gratifying , success, winning well earned fame and distinction. He has much natural ability -- but is withal a hard student and is never contented until he has mastered every -.;. detail of his cases. He believes in the maxim "there is no excellence without <; labor" and follows it closely. He is never surprised by some unexpected dis- . covery by an opposing lawyer, for in his mind he weighs every point and forti- - fies himself as well for defense as for attack. There are few lawyers who win :- a larger^- percentage of their cases before either judge or jury than does J. D. y Welsh. He convinces by his concise statements of law and facts rather than : by word paintings and so high is the respect for his legal ability and integrity '--- that his assertions in court are seldom questioned seriously. In addition to his -:; law practice he is a director of the Farmers & Mechanics Bank.

Judge Welsh was married June 27, 1888, to Miss Ella C. McCullough, who -'- was born in Galesburg, a daughter of Samuel K. and Emily Rosina, (Reed) - . McCullough, the former a native of Pennsylvania and the latter of New York. .'- They became early residents of Galesburg, where Mr. McCullough was em- ; ployed as foreman by the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad Company, re- r maining in the service of that company from 1856 until his death save for the ,.. period of three years spent as a soldier in the Union 'army during the Civil war. He died in igoi, at the age of sixty-nine years, and is survived by his wife. They ; had but two daughters, Ella and Estella, the latter the wife of Charles E. Dud- . ley. Unto Judge and Mrs. Welsh has been born a son, Vernon M., who is a - junior at Knox College. The parents are associated with the Universalist .:. church and Judge Welsh is a trustee of Lombard College, conducted under the auspices of that denomination. He belongs to Alpha Lodge, No. 155, A. F. & A. M., and to Galesburg Chapter, R. A. M. His political views accord with . the pirnciples of the republican party. He is worthily regarded as an able, > faithful and conscientious minister in the temple of justice and in his private v life the simple worth of his character has gained him the high regard of his ,. f ellowmen.

Dr. Henry W. Giles, who for the past ten years has been engaged in the practice of medicine in Knoxville, was born in Peoria county, Illinois, on the 28th of March, i86l. His parents were Thomas and Margaret (Poplett) ^ Giles, the father, a son of Thomas Giles, one of the guards of Napoleon Bona- . v parte, was born on the island of St. Helena, February 28, 1814. Thomas Giles, - . Jr., came to the United States with his father first locating in the state of New ' ; York, where he remained until 1836, when he came to Illinois locating in Peoria. There he continued to reside during the remainder of his life devoting his _. energies during the entire period of his active career to farming. The mother . was a daughter of Thompson Poplett, one of the pioneer settlers of Knox r . county, where she was reared to womanhood. She passed away on August 7, -' 1875, while the father survived for eighteen years thereafter, his demise occurring ;, September 7, 1893. ^^^- ^"fl Mrs. Thomas Giles were married March 7, 1850, and ^ to them were born seven children, five of whom are living ; Joseph W., the eldest born January 13, 1853, who is engaged in farming in Peoria county; William Nelson, born March 9, 1858, who is a physician and surgeon of Wataga, Illinois; George, born March 26, 1863, also a farmer of Peoria county ; Mary Helena, born December 24, 1865, the wife of George Yates, a farmer of Peoria county ; and Henry W., our subject. . .. ; -

The boyhood and youth of Henry W. Giles were spent beneath the paternal roof, his education being obtained in the public schools of Peoria county. After leaving school, for a time he engaged in farm work, but later was employed in a medical laboratory in Peoria, where he remained for four years. Ehiring that period he decided to adopt the medical profession for his life vocation and subsequently entered the Keokuk Medical College, from which institution he received the degree of M. D., the knowledge therein gleaned being supplemented by a post-graduate course in Chicago. He began his career as a practitioner in the state of Iowa, removing from there to Wataga, where he remained until 1902, when he established an office in Knoxville, that he has ever since successfully maintained. During his residence here he has built up a substantial medical practice in the town and surrounding country, while his services as a surgeon are in much demand. Thorough in his methods, sympathetic and helpful in his manner and conscientious in his devotion to those who enlist his services. Dr. Giles has become very popular both professionally and socially ; those, who are suffering from ills of any nature whatsoever, knowing that in him they will always find one graciously willing to alleviate their sufferings, if possible.

Peoria, Illinois, was the scene of Dr. Giles' marriage, on the 26th of November, 1891, to Miss Christiana Schildwachter. The parents of Mrs. Giles were natives of Germany, whence they came to America, first locating in Missouri. After the war they removed to Tazewell county, Illinois, where Mrs. Giles was born and reared. The father is now deceased, but the mother is living and continues to make her home in Tazewell county. To Dr. and Mrs. Giles there have been born four children: Clark W., born August 29, 1892, who is a student;. Willard T., born March 25, 1896; Ruth H., born February 27, 1898, and Howard H., born March 17, 1903.

The family affiliate with the Methodist Episcopal church, in the work of which they take an earnest and helpful interest, while Dr. Giles keeps in touch with the members of his profession through the medium of his membership in the Illinois State Medical Association and Knox County Medical Society. Dr. Giles has always exerted an immeasureable infiuence for good in the community, where he has done effective service in behalf of general progress and improvement.

The prosperity and growth of every community depends not so much upon its machinery of government or even upon the men who fill its public offices as upon the enterprise and the character of the men who are controlling its commercial and industrial interests. Prominent in this connection is Lafayette Weinberg, a member of the firm of Weinberg Brothers, wholesale dealers in fruits and produce, conducting also a freezer and cold-storage business. Along the - legitimate lines of trade they have secured an extensive patronage and the busi- ' ; ness in its volume and importance is a satisfactory one, bringing annually very substantial returns. -- :; : :' ' . : ; | \ /- '

Mr. Weinberg is one of the native sons of Illinois, his birth having occurred in Augusta, January 3, 1868. The surname indicates the ancestral connection ; ' of the family. The grandfather, Isaac Weinberg, was a native of Rehburg, ;.. Germany, and served for thirteen years as a soldier in the German army, during .- which period he participated in the battle of Waterloo. He was connected - with the cavalry branch of the service. To him and his wife were born four .,- children, Jacob, Simon, Fredericka and Regina. Of this number Simon Weinberg was the father of Lafayette Weinberg. He, too, was bom in Germany, near Rehburg, and was reared in that land, there learning the butcher's trade. .; The favorable reports which he heard concerning America and its business con- ^ ditions and opportunities determined him to try his fortune in this country, and , on the day on which he was twenty-three years of age he landed in the United '. States. He first located in Cincinnati, where he remained, for several years, and subsequently removed to Augusta. Illinois, where he established a butchering business and general mercantile store, continuing in this line of trade throughout :- - the remainder of his life. He married Louisa Jurgins, who was born in the same locality as was her husband. Her father, too, was a native of Germany and on coming to America settled near Cincinnati, where his remaining days - : were passed. Unto him and his wife were bom four children, Louisa, Mary, William and Henry. Mr. and Mrs. Simon Weinberg became the parents of - nine sons and nine daughters: Regina, the wife of John Tarr, now living in .' Moravia, Iowa ; Jacob, deceased ; Joseph, a resident of Augusta ; Elizabeth, the - . wife of B. E. Bacon, of Pleasanton, California ; Fredericka, the wife of F. M. v King, of Augusta, Illinois; Deena, the deceased wife of G. S. Stark; Mina the wife of C. M. Allens^i^orth, of Galesburg; Moses, living in Rushville, Illinois; ; Marv, the wife of George Worman, of Grubgulch, California; Pearlie, the wife -^ of F. A. Reiche, of Moravia, Iowa; Abraham L., who is in partnership with : his brother Lafayette; Aaron, living in Augusta; Lafayette, of this review; - Zeline, ofGalesburg ; Adolph, of Augusta ; and Simon, who died when twenty- .; five yearsot age. Two of the children died in infancy.

The father's death occurred in Augusta in 1901, when he had reached the advanced age of eighty-three years, and his wife passed away in 1895. when : sixty-three years of age. She held membership with the Presbyterian church, while Mr. Weinberg was reared in the Israelite faith. ?

Spending his youthful days in his native town, Lafayette Weinberg attended . jthe public schools there until 1888, when he entered Knox College in Galesburg, : being graduated on the completion of the commercial course. He made his . initial step in the commercial world in connection with the wholesale fruit and : produce business of Byram Brothers, entering into partnership under the name '- : of Byram Brothers & Weinberg, which connection continued for a little more y than a year. Since then his brother Abraham L. has been associated with him ' under the firm style of Weinberg Brothers. Gradually they hsve built up an extensive business, handling everything that the market affords in fruit and produce and conducting as well a cold-storage and freezer business. Both branches \,'

On the 23d of November. 1893, Lafayette Weinberg was united in marriage to Miss Mabel L. Babcock, a daughter of Charles M. and Margaret (McChesney) Babcock. Mrs. Weinberg was born in Detroit, Michigan, and her father was a native of New York, while her mother's birth occurred in Illinois. Mr. Babcock came as an early settler to Knox county, this state, establishing his home in Galesburg, where his last days were passed, his death occurring in 1906, when he was sixty-three years of age. His widow still survives and now makes her home in Los Angeleg, California. They were the parents of two sons and two daughters, George M., Mabel L., Clara and Frank O. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Weinberg has been blessed with five children, of whom three are now living, Helen Louise, Dorothy and Fayette. The last two are attending school and the older daughter was graduated from the Galesburg high school in the spring of 1911.

In his political views Mr. Weinberg has always been a democrat since age conferred upon him the right of franchise and he keeps well informed on the questions and issues of the day, but has never sought nor desired public office. That he is a man of social, genial nature is attested by his membership in the Soangetaka Country Club. He belongs also to the Galesburg Business Men's Club and is interested in all of its projects for the welfare and improvement of the city along the various lines that contribute to the city's growth and development. His life record has no spectacular phases but it stands as incontrovertible proof of what may be accomplished through determination, energy and ambition. Mr. Weinberg is today recognized as one of the foremost merchants and business men of Galesburg, honored and respected by all, not only for what he has accomplished, but also for the straightforward methods which have ever characterized his business career.

Ernest T. S. Mason, who since May, 1900, has been general agent at Galesburg for the Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company, his district covering ten counties in western Illinois, was born in Farmington, Fulton county, this state, on the 2ist of August. 1865. His father. Rev. William C. Mason, was born in Washington county, Pennsylvania, in 1820, and was educated in the Washing- - ton and Jefferson College of that state, from which he was graduated with the class of 1847. He then began preaching in Ohio and later removed to Illinois, where he arrived in 1849. For ^ time he was pastor of the church at Le Claire, ; Iowa, and also of the Presbyterian church at Port Bryan, Illinois. His last charge was at Farmington, this state. During the period of the Civil war he enlisted as chaplain of the Seventy-first Illinois Volunteer Infantry and went with Thomas to Atlanta. He also worked in the hospital at different times and re- -: turned from the army with broken health, the hardships of war resulting in his death, on the 2Oth of December, 1870. In early manhood he had wedded Mary Osborne, who was born in Cadiz, Harrison county, Ohio, February 8, 1821. She ' survived her husband for a number of years, passing away in November, 1904. She, too, held membership in the Presbyterian church and was his able assistant in the discharge of his pastoral work. His political views were in accord with the principles of the republican party. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Mason . was celebrated in 1848 and unto them were born seven children: Alexander . O., who is living in Chicago; William S., who died February 23, 1911 ; John M., of Chicago ; Clarence H., of Chetopa, Kansas ; Ernest T. S. ; Mrs. Sarah Amanda Taten, who died December i6, 1904; and Mary Blanche, who died in 1866.

Ernest T. S. Mason completed his education in the Galesburg high school and throughout the intervening period has been identified with the insurance business. For seventeen years he was connected with the Covenant Mutual Life Insurance Company and then became general agent of the Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company in May, 1900. In this connection he has jurisdiction over ten counties in Western Illinois and has under his control a corps of able rep- . resentatives who are building up for the company a large and substantial business in this part of the state. Mr. Mason is thoroughly in touch with the work in his territory and his own capability and zeal enthuse those who are working under his direction. . ' ..

On the 5th of November, 1891, occurred the marriage of Mr. Mason and Miss Maude Alberta Templeton, a daughter of Thomas F. and Mary (Arnold) Templeton. The children born unto them are: Donald, whose birth occurred September 9, 1893; Marjorie Maude, born September 23, 1895; and Nancy Brooke, born February 2, 1897. The wife and mother died December 6, 1904, and on the 3Oth of October, 1907, Mr. Mason was married to Miss Etta Ingersoll, a daughter of Samuel and Lois (Van Orman) Ingersoll, of Galesburg.

In his fraternal relations Mr. Mason is connected with the Masonic lodge and the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks. He also belongs to the Galesburg Club and attends the Presbyterian church, while his wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. His political views accord with the principles of ^ the republican party, but he has never sought or desired office, believing it preferable to concentrate all his energies upon his business affairs, and that he was wise in so doing is indicated in the advancement which has come to him, giving him a prominent position in the insurance circles of the city.

John Gilpin Vivion was at different times connected with commercial and financial interests in Galesburg and always maintained a prominent position as a citizen whose activity contributed to public progress while his personal worth gained for him the high regard and confidence of his fellowmen. He was born in Fayette county, Missouri, July i8, 1853, a son of Dr. John B. Vivion. The first twelve years of his life were spent in the county of his nativity and in 1865 he accompanied his parents on their removal to Illinois, residing in Adams county until 1868, when he came to Galesburg and completed his education in the schools of this city. He started in the business world as an employe in the Murdock dry-goods store and from there changed to J. B. Colton, where he gradually survived her husband for a number of years, passing away in November, 1904. She. too, held membership in the Presbyterian church and was his able assistant in the discharge of his pastoral work. His political views were in accord with the principles of the republican party. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Mason was celebrated in 1848 and unto them were born seven children; Alexander ().. who is living in Chicago: William S., who died February 23, 1911 ; John M., of Chicago; Clarence 11., of Chetopa, Kansas; Ernest T. S. ; Mrs. Sarah Amanda Taten, who died December i6, 1904; and Mary Blanche, who died in 1866. . Ernest T. S. Mason completed his education in the Galesburg high school and throughout the intervening period has been identified with the insurance business. For seventeen years he was connected with the Covenant Mutual Life Insurance Company and then became general agent of the Penn ]\Iutual Life Insurance Com])any in May, 1900. In this connection he has jurisdiction over ten counties in Western Illinois and has under his control a corps of able representatives who are building uj) for the company a large and substantial business in this part of the state. Mr. Mason is thoroughly in touch with the work in his territory and his own cajjability and zeal enthuse those who are working under his direction.

On the 5th of N'ovember, 1891, occurred the marriage of Mr. Mason and Miss Maude Alberta Templeton, a daughter of Thomas F. and Mary (Arnold) Templeton. The children torn unto them are; Donald, whose birth occurred September 9, 1893; Marjorie Maude, Ixjrn September 23, 1895; and Xancy Brooke, born February 2, 1897. The wife and mother died December 6, 1904, and on the 3Oth of October, 1907. Mr. Mason was married to Miss Etta Ingersoll, a daughter of Samuel and Lois (Van Orman) Ingersoll, of Galesburg.

In his fraternal relations Mr. Mason is connected with the Masonic lodge and the Benevolent I'rotective Order of Elks. He also belongs to the Galesburg Club and attends the Presbyterian church, while his wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. His political views accord with the principles of the republican party, but he has never sought or desired office, believing it preferable to concentrate all his energies upon his business affairs, and that he was wise in so doing is indicated in the advancement which has come to him, giving him a prominent position in the insurance circles of the city.

John Gilpin X'ivion was at different times connected with commercial ami financial interests in Galesburg and always maintained a prominent position as a citizen whose activity contributed to jniblic progress while his personal worth gained for him the high regard and confidence of his fellowmen. He was born in Fayette county. Missouri, July i8. 1853. a son of Dr. John P.. Vivion. The first twelve years of his life were spent in the county of his nativity and in 1865 he accompanied his jiarcnts on their removal to Illinois, residing in Adams county until 1868, when he came to Galesburg and completed his education in the schools of this city. He started in the business world as an emjiloye in the Nfurdock dry-goods store and from there changed to J. P>. Colton, where he gradually worked hts way upward, successive promotions at length bringing him to the . position of credit man in that establishment. He enjoyed in the fullest measure - : the confidence and regard of his employer and at the same time well established ; - himself in public opinion as a man of capability, resourcefulness and unassailable business integrity. At length he turned his attention to financial interests, enter- ; ing the Second National Bank of this city, and after a few years he was made -'- cashier of the bank, which position he continued to occupy until 1904, when the '-- bank passed into liquidation. He had been acting as credit man in that institu- i tion for a number of years and when it passed out of existence he founded the Peoples Trust & Savings Bank, which he assisted in organizing and of which he was elected vice president. He also acted as their loan and credit man and it is said that none of the institutions with which he was connected ever lost a dollar on loans made on his recommendations. In 1909 he severed his connec- . tion with the bank and opened an office in the Carr building for the conduct of a general loan business. In this connection he secured a good clientage and had ' built up a substantial business when on the I5th day of April, 1911, he was called .to his final rest. ;.-...;/ -V'-v.:;. '

In 1878 Mr. Vivion was united in marriage to Miss Fannie Lawrence, a daughter of Richard Austin Lawrence, of whom mention is made elsewhere in this volume. Both were well known socially, having an extensive circle of warm friends in Galesburg and in other parts of the county. Mr. Vivion was affiliated with the Baptist church and was ever loyal to its teachings and helpful in its work, and his widow is now attending this church. He belongs to the Gales- - burg Club, the Business Men's Club and to other commercial and social organiza- ; tions. His political allegiance was given to the democracy but he never sought : nor desired office, preferring to concentrate his energies upon his business affairs which were capably managed, his well spent life gaining for him the regard and ' honor of all with whom he was associated. He was never neglectful of any duty, whether of a public or private nature, and ever held to high ideals of manhood and citizenship. ; . . : . . -::- . '; -^' . , : .. .,:",

Among the members of the Knoxville legal fraternity Daniel C. Miller occupies a somewhat unique position, having first entered a court room in a professional capacity after attaining the age when it is generally considered that a man has reached his zenith and should be well established in his life vocation. His life record began on a little farm in Rockingham county, Virginia, his parents being John and Leah (Grigsby) Miller, the father also a native of Rockingham county, while the mother was born in Page county, Virginia. The father had three brothers and two sisters: Henry. Joseph, Jacob. Jane and Catherine. All have now passed away with the exception of Jacob, who resides in Kansas, where he owns about twenty-five hundred acres of land, his wealth being estimated at one hundred and fifty thousand dollars. Mrs. Leah Miller had one brcther and two sisters : Strauther, Jane and Sarah. The first named came from county, Virginia, to Pike county, Illinois, about fifty-six years ago and was principal of the high school there until elected circuit clerk, while later he was chosen county judge. He had three children, two sons and a daughter, the latter becoming the wife of Judge Higby, who is now judge of the circuit court of Pike county.