Lee County, Illinois - The whole text, 1881 (part 15 of 24)

the family settled down in their own home. In the course of time there were born into the familj' two daughters, one of whom is still living. In 18i3 the winter set in with such severity in the second week in November that the family were driven out of their shanty to a neighboring log house. But noble enterprises are sure to win. This family did not struggle in vain. In spite of frequent losses of hard earned personal property, in spite of many dangers and much malarial disease, they gained ground and soon began to add to the original claim till a farm of 287 acres they could call their own. Other farms were added, till at the time of Mr. Leake's death, he could number his acres at 670. In 1867 the desire of several years was put in practice. In May he crossed the Atlantic to visit his native land. Not long after arriving in England he was prostrated by sickness so severe that his friends had little hope that he would see home again, but his strong will prevailed. He arrived at home November 1, but remained an invalid till September 11, 1869, when he died. He was buried in Temperance Hill graveyard, beside his daughter, who had died in 1862. Thus he saw his three sons and one daughter grown and able to take up the work which he had laid down. To Mrs. Leake belongs a large share of credit for the success of the family. After her husband's death she lived with her children till January 19, 1868, when she too was numbered with the dead and laid beside her husband.

Thomas Leake, farmer and stock raiser, Amboy, is the son of John and Mary (Jarvis) Leake, of Leicestershire, England, and was born at that place January 12, 1839, and came to this country with the rest of the family in the summer of 18-11. Though he is not a native, he is yet one of the pioneers of Lee county. He was reared on the farm and in his youth was engaged in rural pursuits and attending the pioneer sciiools of the period. In 1858, having mastered all of the branches of learning available in the schools of the county, he entered Rock River Seniinar3\ at Mount Morris, for the purpose of completing his education. In 1862 he began a theological course of training in the Oarrett Biblical Institute, at Evanston, Illinois, which he completed in 1864. In the meantime he was engaged during vacations in teaching. On the completion of his course he joined the Rock River Conference and began his ministerial labors in the Big Rock Circuit. This station he filled for two years, at the end of which time, finding his health so impaired as to make him unable to continue the work, he returned home, and after a year of recuperation took charge of his farm. On February 20, 1872, he was married to Miss Martha S., daughter of Stephen T. Seoville, who was born in Oneida count}', New York, March 29, 1838. Mr. Leake has a beautiful farm and nice home, much taste and refinement being displaj'ed in their cultivation and care.

John C. Leake, farmer and stock raiser, Amboy, son of Jolin and Marj A. (Jarvis) Leake, was born in Leicestersliire, England, December 7, 1838, and came to America with his mother and others of their family in 1841. His father preceded them liere to prepare a liome for them on their arrival. This he did by entering government land in the south part of Nachnsa township. Thus John C. became one of the pioneer children of this county and is well acquainted with all the disadvantages of pioneer life, having hauled grain to Chicago with a team, railroads then being a convenience almost unheard of in this part of the country. September 21, 18C3, he was married to Miss Mariette, daughter of Leonard W. and Sarah A. (Crawford) Hale. She was born in Ohio, January 6, 1838. They have one child living, Thomas W., and three deceased : Charles W. died July 2, 1877, aged twelve years ; Jennie F., February 6, 1879, aged six years, and Grace M., March 3, 1879, aged nearly three years. Mr. Leake owns the old homestead, consisting of 380 acres, and is actively engaged in stock raising and farming.

Henet Wingert, retired farmer, Nachusa, is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Binkley) Wingert, and was born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, February 23, 1804. His father was born in the satne state, and his grandfather was born in Germany. Mr. Wingert was reared and educated a farmer. August 10, lS2f), he married Miss Anna M. Bciitz, a native of Franklin county, Pennsylvania. In 1833 he removed to Preble county, Ohio, and there engaged in farming till 1852, when he came to Illinois, and settled in Lee county, on Sec. 4, T. 21, R. 10. This was his last and permanent settlement, as he is now (1881) contentedly enjoying the comfortable home his industry and honest toil have provided. Mrs. Wingert died December 25, 1877, leaving her husband nine children living (six being deceased), viz : Elizabeth M., Louisa C, John W., Hannah, Walter J., Miriam, David, Harriett A., Leona V. Mr. Wingert began life for himself without means, but by good management he now owns, besides his home farm of 160 acres, 80 acres of good land in Iowa. He is one of those wholesouled men whose influence is always felt for good in the community where they live.

John W. AVingekt, farmer and stock raiser, Nachusa, is a son of Henry and Anna M. (Bentz) Wingert, and was born in Franklin county, Pennsylvania, July 19, 1831, and with his parents removed to Preble county, Ohio, when a small boy. Here he grew to manhood, engaged in farming, and to a limited extent attending school. In 1852 he came with his parents to Lee county, Illinois, and settled in the prosperous town of Nachusa, and followed the business of farming. In August, 1862, he enlisted in the 75th III. Vol. Inf , followed the for- tunes of war through the battles of PeTrysville and Stone River, after which, on account of his health breaking down, he was transferred to the 12th Veteran Reserve Corps, and was finally discharged with that regiment in June 1865, broken down in health, from which he yet experiences much suffering. January 28, 1869, he was united in marriage with Miss Hannah M., daughter of Jacob and Nancy Hittle. She was born in Columbia county, Pennsylvania, October 15, 1837, and came to this county with her parents far back in its early history. They have five children : Willie B.. Frederick A., Adelbert, and Bertha and Berton (twins). In November, 1877, he bought his present farm of 160 acres in Sec. 29, T. 22, R. 10, where he now lives engaged in farming.

Joshua Wingeet, farmer and stock raiser, Franklin Grove, is a son of John and Mary (Newcommer) Wingert, and was born in the State of Maryland, July 4, 1829. In 1832 his parents removed to Ohio. Here young Joshua remained with his parents, engaged in farming and attending school, till about the age of seventeen. At that time (1846), in company with au elder brother, he emigrated to Illinois, and settled in Lee county, and engaged in farming in connection with his brother. December 20, 1855, he married Miss Susan, daughter of Mr. Jacob and Mary Emmert. She is a native of Maryland, and was born May 4, 1836, and came to Lee county, Illinois, with her parents in an early day. After his marriage Mr. Wingert actively engaged in farming and stock raising for himself, which business he has ever since successfully followed, and by careful management and industry has accumulated a tine property. He has three sons living: Ralpli W., a fine scholar, who is now giving much attention to the fine arts; Ira W. and Lee E., who are also giving much attention to education.

Joseph Heckman (deceased) was the son of Jacob and Sarah (Bushkirk) Heckman. He was born in Bedford county, Pennsylvania, April 11, 1813, and died June 19, 1881, after a life of patient labor and industry. He was united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth, daughter of James and Elizabeth (Mock) Rawlings, December 25, 1838. She was born July 5, 1814, and died May 23, 1879. They left a family of six children : James M., Mary E. (who is now faithfully discharging the duties of housekeeper for her brothers), Josiah S., Jacob C, John R. and Adison L. Mr. Heckman with his family came to Lee county, Illinois, in December 1863, and bought a farm of J. S. McNeel in Sec. 36, T. 22, R. 10, one of the most pleasant homes in this township.

David N. Steatton, farmer and stock raiser, Dixon, was born in Massachusetts, August 1, 1844. He is a son of Milo and Calista P. (Rice) Stratton. His ea.T\y j'outh was spent on a farm, where he had and improved the advantages of the common schools. At the age of seventeen years he entered the mercantile business in Lee, Massachusetts. This he followed till the age of twenty-two, when he came to Macoupin county, Illinois, where he remained two years as clerk in a store. He then came to Whitesides county, Illinois, where he remained till the fall of 1868, when he removed to his present home farm in Lee county, Illinois. He is permanently engaged in farming and stock raising, of which business he is now making a decided success. August 15, 187T, he was united in marriage to Miss Hester, daughter of Nathan and Jndah Hill. She was born in Pennsylvania. They are the parents of two children : Jennie P. and Milo. Mr. Stratton's parents are still living in Massachusetts, his father at the advanced age of eighty-two years.

Samuel Miller, farmer and stock raiser, was born in Franklin count}', Pennsylvania, March 2, 1810. His father was killed when he (Samuel) was three 3'ears old. His early youth was spent farming and attending school till seventeen years of age, when he began teaching. He became a successful instructor both in the English and the German languages. In 1832 he was married to Miss Mary Laymon, a native Pennsylvania. By this union he had three children : Mary G., Jacob L., John W. About 1840 Mrs. Miller died. Mr. Miller was next married to Mary Maune, and by this marriage had seven children : Benjamin F., Abram C, Samuel W., Martha W., Lusetta, Charlotte A., Laura F. In June, 1865, Mr. Miller bought and occupied the old George Baugh farm of 300 acres. He has always exhibited a marked degree of industry and perseverance, the result of which is a fine farm with all the improvements that add value to any farm property.

Jonas B. Eicholtz, farmer and stock raiser, Nachusa, is. a son of John F. and Anna (Boyer) Eicholtz, both natives of Pennsylvania and now residents of Nachusa. Jonas B. was born in Adams county, Pennsylvania, March 26, 1840, and like his father received a limited education and was raised to hard work on the farm. In the spring of 1861, with his parents, he settled in Lee county, Illinois, near Nachusa, where he engaged in tilling the soil. November 19, 1863, Mr. Eicholtz was married to Miss Elnora E., daughter of Jacob and Sarah (Dettro) Peters. She was born in Adams county, Pennsylvania, August 23, 1840. The issue of this marriage is one child, Oscar II., born in Pennsylvania, March 26, 1866, while Mr. and Mrs E. were visiting in that state. In 1875 Mr. Eicholtz purchased his present farm of 145 acres in Sec. 18, T. 21, R. 10, which he has improved but did not occupy as a home till March 1880. He is one of Lee's industrious and prosperous farmers. Mr. and Mrs. Eicholtz are connected with the Lutheran church, holding their membership in the St. James' church, South Dixon.

Samuel A. Bender, farmer and stock raiser, Dixon, is a son of John and Margaret (Miller) Bender, and was born in Franklin county, Pennsylvania, June 5, 1843. He remained at home with his parents, where he gained a fair common school education, till the summer of 1860, when he started west, intending to make a home for himself on the celebrated prairie of Illinois. He stopped in Lee county and began working out by the month on a farm, but at the outbreak of the rebellion he shouldered the musket in defense of his country, and on August 12, 1862, as an enlisted member of Co. G, 75th 111. Vol. Inf., started for the field of action. He met the enemy at Perryville and Stone River, and was with his regiment throughout the war, and was honorably discharged June 12, 1805, having been appointed sergeant (for meritorious conduct) in August 1804. After his return home Mr. Bender engaged in farming in Lee county. November 18, 1869, he married Miss Millie, daughter of Erastus and Ruth (Wilcox) Hart. She was born in Pennsylvania, July 18, 1851. They are the parents of three children living: John P., Bessie A. and Dora Mabel, and two deceased. In the spring of 1870 Mr. Bender bought his present home farm in Nachusa township, where he peruianently located and engaged in firming. His father was born in Franklin county, Pennsylvania, where he made his home through life. He (jlied August 25, 1881. The father, the grandfather of our sketch, was a native of Germany, and followed the occupation of farmer. He came to America early in life and settled in Pennsylvania.

John Atkinson, farming, Nachusa, is a son of John and Margaret (Todhunter) Atkinson, and was born in Cumberland county, England, August 30, 1847. In June, 1869, he left the land of his birth, parents and friends, and set sail for America in the steamship England, of the National line, in search of home for himself on the fertile prairies of Illinois, and landed in New York July 4, 1869. He at once came on to Dixon, Lee county, Illinois, and hired out by the month on a farm. This he followed two years, when he rented land and engaged in farming for himself. March 1, 1879, he married Miss Susanah, daughter of Mr. John and Hannah (Skermer) Leake. She was born in Lee county, Illinois, November 28, 1847. Mr. Atkinson is now successfully engaged in farming.

Samuel Botee, farmer, Dixon, son of Abraham and Elizabeth (Bowman) Boyer, was born in Somerset county, Pennsylvania, September 28, 1840. He remained at home with his parents, engaged in farming and attending school, till about the age of fifteen years, when he came to Illinois and engaged at farm labor till the outbreak of the war of the rebellion, when he enlisted in Co. A, 13th 111. Vol. Inf. He at once started for the front and came in contact with the enemy for the first time near Lynn Creek, Missouri. He served at the siege of Yicksbiirg and many other hard-fought battles, and was finally discharged with his regiment at Springfield, Illinois, and returned to Lee county so completely broken down in health that he has been unable to perform a day's work since. As a recompense for injuries received in the service " Uncle Sara " is now paying him a liberal pension. March 15, 1866, he married Miss Rebecca Emerick. She was born in Somerset county, Pennsylvania, Juh' 4, 18-18. They are the parents of six children : James H., Barbara E., Alonzo, Maud, Goldie, and "William L. In 1877 he moved on his present home, in Sec. 14, T. 22, R. 9, where he is now engaged in farming.

Calvin Buekett (deceased) was born in Blair county, Pennsylvania, December 8, 1829. His parents were Jacob and Nancy (Wilcox) Burkett. During early youth he was engaged in attending school and working on the farm. At about the age of twenty-one he came to Lee county, Illinois, by the rivers Ohio, Mississippi and Illinois. Having gained some knowledge of the business of stone and brick masonry, lie enofae:ed in and followed it for a number of years, teaching school winters. In December, 1858, he bought a farm of 100 acres from Jerdon Crawford, in Sec. 8, T. 21, R. 10, Nachusa township, and engaged in farming and stock raising. This, however, he only followed a short time, for at the outbreak of the war he enlisted in Cheney's Battery. While in the army his health failed, and after lying in hospital three or four months he was discharged on account of disability. January 2, 1868, he married Miss Mary A., daughter of James K. and Eliza (Bruce) Henry. She was born in Huntingdon county, Pennsylvania, January 8, 1840, and came to Lee county, Illinois, in 1865. Mr. Burkett, by industry, hard work and good management, made for himself and family a good home. He was a member of the Presbyterian church, as is also his surviving wife. They had no children of their own, but have one adopted child, Charles M. Burkett. Mr. Burkett died February 27, 18S1, and was buried in the Dixon cemetery.

Ekastus Hart (deceased) was born near Albany-, New York, December 14, 1809. He was reared a farmer, and followed that business through life. At Rochester, New York, March 15, 1831, he was united in marriage with Miss Ruth, daughter of Mr. Daniel and Hulda (Webb) Wilcox. She was born in Black River county. New York, December 15, 1812. Soon after his marriage Mr. Hart removed to the State of Pennsylvania, and there engaged in farming. In the summer of 1865 he left the state where he so long lived, and came to Lee county, Illinois, and settled in Dixon. He only remained there one 3'ear, when he moved out on his farm he had previously bought in Sees. 25 and 26, T. 22, R. 9. Here he actively engaged in stock raising as well as farm- ing. He died October 4, 1868, leaving, besides his life-loug companion, six children, as follows: Alvisa, wife of S. Liipher; Mariett, wife of T. L. Slocum ; Lury, wife of J. Williams ; Levi E., Diantha, wife of S. Smith, and Millie, wife of Samuel A. Bender. Levi E. Hart, son of E. and R. Hart, farmer and stock raiser, was born in the State of Pennsylvania, August 30, 1846, and came with his parents to Lee county, Illinois. December 18, 1868, he married Miss Emeline B., daughter of Abanoan and Caroline (Fowler) Hinds. She was born in Susquehanna countj', Pennsj^lvania, June 21, 1846. They are the parents of two children : Sybil L. and Leon. Mr. Hart is proprietor of the old home of his father, and with him his venerable old mother is spending her declining years in peace and comfort.

Feangis Miller, farmer, Nachusa. The yeoman who leaves his native land, dares the ocean's turbulent billows, makes his way to Illinois and here, bj' incessant toil and constant saving, secures to himself and fiimily an ample and pleasant home of 182 acres of land, second to none in the state, and improves it well, is certainly a success. Such a man is Francis Miller, the subject of these notes. Mr. Miller was born in Count}' Derry, Ireland, in 1833, and like his father was reared to hard work on the farm and had but few educational advantages. In March, 1852, he was married to Miss Jane Burnside, daughter of Josiah Burnside. She was also born in County Derry, Ireland. Immediately after their marriage the twain set sail in the sailing vessel Isaac Wright for America, and after nine weeks' sailing reached New York. He remained at labor in New York a few months, then came to Lee county via Chicago and Rockford. Arriving, he engaged at farm labor by the month or day. He soon purchased a small farm, but in 1872, in partnership with his brother-in-law, James Burnside, bought the farm he in 1880 secured to himself and now owns, situate in Sec. 19, T. 21, R. 10. He deals somewhat in stock, etc. Mr. Miller's family numbers seven children : Margaret (now Mrs. E. A. Hewet), James, Samuel F., Eliza, William I., Mary, and Josiah.

John M. Allwood, farmer and stock raiser, Nachusa, was born in Lincolnshire, England, March 26, 1830. His parents were John and Ann (Madison) Allwood. He was reared on a farm. His parents being poor, his education was very much neglected. After growing up he labored as a daj' hand six and a half years. October 18, 1853, he left his native country and friends and set sail for America in the sailing vessel North American, and after a voj'age of six weeks and two days landed in New York. He at once left there for Wisconsin and from there started on foot to a point, 200 miles distant, in Iowa, from where he soon after returned to Wisconsin, where he hired out to work on a farm at S8 per month. Here he continued a little over six years, when he came to Lee county, Illinois, and hired out to work for Mr. Abijah Powers in Palmyra. Here he remained two years and then went back to Wisconsin, sold a farm he had previously bought, and then went to Iowa, where he bought a t'arui of 2:10 acres, on which he lived about three years. Mr. Allwood at this time having a longing desire for Illinois, sold his farm and again returned to Lee county and bought a farm in the south end of Xachusa township, where he is now engaged in farming and stock raising. October 18, 1863, he married Miss Isabella Mostollcr. a native of Penns3'lvania, born there in 1835 and came to Lee count}', Illinois, in 1851. They are the parents of seven children, five of whom are now living; William, Austin, Edgar, George W., Mary E.; John, born August 20, 1864, was drowned in Coon Kiver, at Booneville, Iowa, July 3, 1881 ; Charles died in infancy'.

John M. Crawford (deceased) was born in Blair county, Pennsylvania, March 15, 1825. Early in life he learned the trade of carpenter and cabinet-maker; this he followed until several years after coming to Illinois, having worked on some of the first mills and bridges built in Lee county. April 12, 1849, he married Miss Mary A. D3'sart. She was born in Huntingdon county, Pennsylvania. March 8, 1824. They at once came to Illinois, and settled in Lee county on land he had bought previously, having been to Lee county about three years before. He died May 21, 1881, having at the time of his death become one of the largest land owners in Lee county. He was well and favorably known throughout the county, having filled the offices of supervisor and assessor for several terms. He left at his death a wife and six children : the eldest of the children, James A., died June 9, 1881 ; Milton A., Albert W., Joseph D., Frances J. and Ettie O.

John H. Abbott, farmer and stock raiser, Nachusa. In the earh' part of the seventeenth century the Abbots came from Somersetshire, England, and settled on Staten Island, N^ew Jersey ; from them sprang a numerous family, now scattered throughout the United States. They were prominently connected with the Methodist Episcopal church in its early historj' in America, and are among the first mentioned by Bishop Simpson in his " Cyclopedia of Methodism." John H. Abbott, now of Lee county, Illinois, is one of the descendants of this historic family. He was born in Columbia county, Pennsylvania, November 12, 1818. He was reared on a farm by his parents till the age of fourteen. When at that age his mother died, and little John was thrown on his resources and obliged to take care of himself. After a short time he engaged his services to a Mr. L. B. Rupert, then engaged in boating and transportation, with whom he afterward became a partner and followed the business a number of years. December 14, 1848, he married Miss Ellen Shoemaker, who was born in Columbia county, Penn- sylvania, November 17, 1827. Tliey are the parents of seven children : Elizabeth J., Amzi S., Robert M., William, Charles B., Martha A. and Mary E. In the spring of 1864- Mr. Abbott came to Lee county, Illinois, bought land in Sec. 29, T. 23, R. 10, where he permanently located and engaged in farming. For the last eleven years he has been commissioner of highways. He is prominently connected with the . Methodist Episcopal church. --^j^

Isaiah Brink, farmer and stock raiser, Nachusa, came to Lee county, Illinois, October 10, 1851. He is the son of Joshua and Rebecca (Cole) Brink, and was born October 17, 1817, in the old State of Pennsylvania. Like his father he was reared a farmer and to a limited extent attended V^^ the old subscription schools of his native state. In June, 18-12, he was Jt married to Miss Eliza Stiles, and has become the father of six children, -^ ,, /7) three of whom are living : _Sarah C. (wife of Perry Cromley), John L. l/j^^ and Chai-les S. In March, 1852, Mr. Brink rented a cabin near Dixon, into which he moved his family, bade them good-b}', and started for Califoi'nia, in company with some other parties who were going to the Golden State with ox teams. He arrived there in September of the same year, and at once engaged in mining, but soon after turned his attention to the carpenter business, which he followed in connection with trading and speculating for about four years. In September, 1856, he returned home, and found his wife engaged in farming on land she had bought with money sent home by her husband during his absence. Mr. Brink made his trip to California a success, inasmuch as he there made the money which gave him a good start in life. His home farm comprises 278 acres of good land. He is also the owner of considerable other property. _y-^

John R. Merrill (deceased), Nachusa, was born in Londonderry, New Hampshire, in 1804, and was reared on a farm. In April, 1829, he married Miss Lydia C, daughter of Benjamin March. She was born in Londonderry in 1805. In 1839 they emigrated to Illinois, where from its cheap lands he might secure for himself and family a home and enjoy the advantages of a growing countrj'. He first settled in Ogle county, near the line of Lee. Here he entered land, to which he kept adding until he became the owner of a large amount of land in Lee and Ogle counties. He experienced much of the hardships and privations of pioneer life, making many trips to Chicago with a team, hauling produce there and merchandise back, sleeping on the ground and in his wagon nights, getting stalled in sloughs and carrying out his loads on his back to land. He died March -1, 1861. Mrs. Merrill (a former school-mate of the venerable Horace Greeley) is still living, at the advanced age of seventy-six years, and is now (1881) enjoying excellent health and a remarkable memory. They became the parents of two children (twins). One of them died, aged twenty years and two months. This was a sad bereavement to Mr. Merrill, as he was a kind and indulgent parent as well as a devoted husband. The surviving daiigliter, Mary A., was born in New Hampshire, February 7, 1S31, and is the mother of five children, three of whom are living: Charles W., Walter A. and Mollie L. She has for the past two years been living in Chicago, where her daughter Mollie is attending school. Her son, Charles W. Dutcher, was married November 27, 1879, to Miss Susan A. Kennedy, a native of Ogle county, Illinois.

William Gaekison, farmer and stock raiser, Nachusa, is one of the early settlers of Lee county, coming here in the spring of 1845. Mr. Garrison was born in Luzerne county, Pennsj-lvania, July 22, 1S13, and is a son of Mathias and Susannah (Sealey) Garrison. He was reared a farmer and educated to a limited extent in the subscription schools of his native state. At the age of about twenty' he started in the business of farming for himself. December 26, 1833, he married Miss Amelia Oman, a native of Columbia county, Pennsylvania. She was born January 31, 1811. In the spring of 1845 he came to Lee county, Illinois, and settled near Dixon, where he entered land and engaged in farming. This he followed four years, when he sold out and bought a saw-mill just over the line in Ogle county, and actively engaged in preparing the material then so necessary for improving the wild prairie with buildings and fences. This he followed about eight years, and then turned his attention to making a permanent home for himself. He bought the N.W. i Sec. 30, T. 22, R. 10 E., which he has made one of the very pleasant homes of Nachusa township. Mrs. Garrison died December 27, 1870, on the home where she so long lived, after living to see her family all grown and the country that was so wild and desolate all made into beautiful .farms and dotted here and there with schools and churches. Mr. Garrison's second marriage was with Mrs. Lucinda Shute, October 15, 1872. She has by a former husband one son, Abram L. Shute. Mr. Garrison is the father of fifteen children by his first wife, nine of whom are living: John, Peter, George L., Hester A., Hannah, Elizabeth E., William H., Harriett E. and Martha J. Mr. Garrison has been identified with the Methodist Episcopal church for many years. When a boy he was converted to Christ, and since that time has been a consistent member of the church. Two of his sons, Peter and William H., served their country in the late rebellion, Peter in the 75th 111. Vol. Inf, and is now carrying a rebel bullet; William in Cheney's Batter3'.

According to tradition the founder of the Hausen family in the State of Maine was a Saxon-German, and accompanied Burgoyne's army from Europe to America in the same ship which brought that celebrated general to the shores of this continent in the time of the revohitionar}' war. Soon after his arrival in America Mr. Hansen declared his intentions to aid the colonists in their struggle for liberty, and at once became forage master for Gen. Washington, and rendered good service throughout the war, which gave birth to one of the grandest nations that ever existed. He finally married and settled in the State of Maine, where he reared a family, one of whom was Charles, who married Mary J. Hilton, and came to Lee county in 1840, bringing with him a family of ten children, the youngest of whom was Norman, the subject of this sketch, then a lad of nine years. His advantages of education were very limited, being only such as the old subscription schools of those days afforded, but the school of experience, from which may be learned lessons of industry and thrift, was sufficient, and our subject an apt scholar, as is proved by the success which has attended his business affairs so far through life. He began life for himself by working out by the month, and is now the owner of a good farm of 160 acres in Sec. 9, T. 21, R. 10, well improved and well stocked, besides a farm of 160 acres in Meriden, La Salle county, Illinois. He was born October 2, 1831, and married Lucy L. Herrick, July 8, 1866. She is a daughter of Hiram Herrick, was born in Vermont, and came to Lee county when a small child. They have one child, Jennie, born August 20, 1870.

Geokge Palmee, farmer and stock raiser, Nachusa, is a son of Daniel and Christenia (Shuge) Palmer, and was born in Northampton, Pennsylvania, September 11, 1808. His early youth was spent on a farm. At about the age of twenty he began learning the trade of a miller with his father. This business he followed a number of years in connection with farming. In 1843 he married Miss Catherine Stettler, of Columbia county, Pennsylvania, and in the summer of 1846 they came to Illinois and settled in Lee county in what is now Nachusa township. In 1849 he bought a little home of forty acres in Sec. 32, T. 22, E. 10. To this he kept adding till his farm now contains 160 acres. This he has well improved and he is able to say that he has earned it by his own hard labor and industry. This is now one of the model farms of Nachusa township. Mr. Palmer is the father of two children, one of whom is now living. Dr. Thomas D. Palmer, born August 15, 1846, is now engaged in the practice of medicine at Paw Paw, Lee county, Illinois. He is a graduate of Davis Medical College, of Chicago.

John H. Buekett, farmer, Dixon, is a son of John M. and Mary (Fleck) Burkett, and was born in Lee county, Illinois, March 28, 1854. He was reared on the farm and educated in the common schools and at the city school of Dixon. December 9,1874, he married Miss Ann

Ophelia, daiightei- of Erastus and Mary Cortright. She was born in Lee county, Illinois. They have three children : Mary 0., Annie N. and one infant. Mr. Burkett is engaged in farming. He is a clever, energetic young man.

Jacob Wertman, fanner and stock raiser, Nachusa, was born in Columbia county, Pennsylvania, November 11, 1811. His parents were Henry and Anna M. (Krynimin) Wertman. They were also natives of Pennsylvania; and his grandfather, Michael Wertman, was a native of German}' and came to America about the middle of the last century. Our subject, Jacob, was reared on a farm and early educated in the art of being a hardy tiller of the soil. These practical lessons were like seeds sown on good ground, for they brought forth that in after life which is the fruit of industry and a sound judgment. In the spring of 1838 Mr. Wertman left the old associations of home to seek his fortune in the then far west. After manj' weeks of wearj- travel by water and on foot he arrived in Dixon, Lee county, Illinois. Having early in life gained some knowledge of the trade of carpenter, this he now followed, in connection with other work, till he earned the means with which to enter some government land. Thus he secured for himself the foundation for his future home in Sec. 4, T. 21, R. 10. February 20, 1851, he married Miss Mary E., daughter Solomon and Jane (Bnckalu) Shelliiammer. She was born in Columbia county, Pennsylvania, August 15, 1830, and came with her parents to Lee county, Illinois, in 1837. Though but a child at the time, she well remembers the trip, which occupied eight weeks and was made with horses and wagon. Mr. and Mrs. Wertman are now spending their declining years surrounded with all the blessings that a life of industry and honest toil will i)roduee. They are the parents of an interesting family of four children : Charles H., Thomas J., Alice M. and Wiilard L. Three of whom yet remain at the old home. Charles H. is married and has two children : Harr}' J. and Herbert T.

Thomas J. Wkrtman, farmer, Franklin Grove, is the son of Jacob and Mary E. (Shelhamer) Wertman, and was born in Lee county. May 30, 1854, and like iiis father was reared a farmer, educated in the common schools, but was more especially trained to the realities of hard toil and industry. December 24, 1870, he married Miss Lucetta A., daughter of Harrison and Lydia Hansen. She was born in Lee county, Illinois, July 29, 1854.

In the early jiart of the present century Mr. William Brandon emigrated from the north of Ireland to America, and settled in Pennsylvania. Soon after coming to America he married Triphenia, a daughter of Benjamin Fuller, Esq., a native of Massachusetts. Of this union were fourteen children, one of whom was Benjamin F., the subject of this sketch. He was born January' 11, 1814, in Luzerne county, Pennsylvania. His early youth was spent with his parents on a farm and attending the old subscription schools of his boyhood days, the latter only to a limited extent. In the fall of 1837 Mr. Brandon left his native state, as well as his old associates, and started for the proverbial green fields, and after a thirty-four day's trip b}' land and water arrived on the enchanting prairie lands of Lee county, Illinois. His first location was made near Dixon, where he bought a claim, but a few years later bought the farm where he now lives. Although it was then but a wild prairie, it now has an air of home comfort, and contentment. Its thrifty fruit-trees and beautiful large black-walnut groves indicate the proprietor to be a man of good taste and industry. October 8, 1841, Mr. Brandon was married to Miss Margaret, daughter of Elisha Courtright, Esq. ; she was born in Luzerne county, Pennsylvania, February 15, 1825, and came to Lee county with her parents in an early day. They have six children: Charles D., Milton E.., George W., William, Sarah T. and Anna O. Mr. and Mrs. Brandon are members of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Jacob Emmeet, retired farmer, Nachusa, is the son of Joseph and Catherine (Avey) Emmert, and was born in Washington county, Maryland, July 23, 1807. He was reared a farmer, which business he followed through life. December 16, 1830, he married Miss Mary Newcomer, also a native of Washington county, Maryland. She was born February 15, 1811. In 1844 they came to Illinois and settled in Ogle county, but one year later removed to near where he now lives in Lee county. He is the father of eight children, five of whom are living: Zachariah, William H., Jacob M., Susan, and Catherine. Jacob M. enlisted in Co. C, 34th 111. Vol. Inf., in September 1861, and followed the fortunes of war nearly four years. In the fall of 1864 he was detached as sergeant of Gen. Jefferson C. Davis' escort, but again joined his regiment. He was at the grand review at Washington, and was finally discharged with the glorious old 34th in 1865. December 12, 1870, he married Miss Mary E. Ohmert, of Lee count}' ; they have two children : Gracie L. and Kittie C.

Marshall McNeel, farmer and stock raiser, Nachusa, was born in Penns}'lvania, May 29, 1836, and came to Lee county, in company with his parents, in April 1847, when a lad of eleven years. Here he grew to manhood, with but a limited means of gaining an education. His few spare moments, however, were devoted to his books, but the greater portion of his time was employed in the hardy pursuit of the labors of improving a farm on the wild prairie. At the time he settled here the country was without the^ advantages of a market nearer than Chicago, where he has hauled wheat with an ox team, the average time of mak- ing a trip being about thirteen days, sleeping on the ground or in the wagon as he could catch it. Hauling wheat over 100 miles, fording streams and wading mud, would not pay hotel fare. When Mr. Mc- Neel's parents, Thomas C. and Nancy (Russell) McNeel, started in Lee county, they were $80 behind an even start with the world, but by hard work and good management they succeeded in making a good home for themselves and family. Mr. McNeel died in April 1876 ; his ancestors were from the north of Ireland. Mrs. McXeel died August 2, 1881. Marshal], the subject of our sketch, was llrst married October 23, 1862, to Miss Anna E. Sharrar ; she died August 1, 1877. His present wife was Charlotte E. Miller, to whom he was married August 8, 1878 ; she was born in Pennsylvania, December 25, 1845. It is but just to say of Mr. McNeel that his home is one of the neatest in the township.

Joiix S. EicHoi/rz, wagon and carriage maker, Nachusa, is a son of William and Lydia (Hanes) Eicholtz. He was born in Adams county, Pennsylvania, September 24, 1842. His early youth was spent on the farm. He received a good business education. After he grew to manhood he engaged in farm labor till the spring of 1868, when he came to Lee county. A few months later he became an apprentice in the wood-work department of the wagon and carriage shops then in operation at Nachusa, and of whicii a few years later he became the proprietor, and where he is now, in 1881, actively engaged in the manufacture of a superior class of wagons and carriages. In connection with this business he has a blacksmith and general repair shop. Thus, while many have continued as day laborers, Mr. Eicholtz has by industry, fair dealing and good management built up for himself a trade and reputation of which any young man should have a just reason to be proud. December 2, 1809, he married Miss Charlotte Stover, a native of Pennsylvania. By this union he has four children : William B., Harry M., Edith M. and Maud May.

Jacob Hhtle (deceased) was born in Columbia county, Pennsylvania, May 8, 1807. The business of his life was farming. August 9, 1835, he was united in marriage with Miss Xancy Ivulp. She was born in Columbia county, Pennsylvania, September 11, 1811, and is still living on their old home in Lee county, Illinois, where they settled as early as'l841. Mr. Hittle died February 6, 1877, after a life of hard labor and industry, leaving to his family a comfortable home of 200 acres of excellent land. Mr. and Mrs. Hittle were among the sturdy pioneers of Lee county, whose word was considered as good as their bond. In his will Mr. Hittle wisely set oft to his daughter Mary E., 40 acres of his farm, on account of her being in delicate health. The members of his family now living are, besides his wife, Fannie, wife of

Nachusa Townhip

John A. Sleer, now living in Carroll county, Illinois ; Hannah M., wile of J. W. Wingert ; Mary E., Alexander P. and Samson C, born in Lee county, Illinois, December 27, 1847. He was married Februar}' 5, 1874, to Miss Caroline Allbright, a native of Pennsylvania. She was born April 11, 1852, and came to Lee county with her parents when a child. They have two children : Anna J. and Elvie E. Mr. Hittle is now in cliarge of the old home farm, and is engaged in farming and stock raising. He is a thorough, industrious young man, warm-hearted and friendly almost to a fault, yet careful and prudent at all times.

Chester Harrington, stock raiser and farmer, Naehusa, came to Lee county, Illinois, in 1837, from the State of New York, making the trip with a team of iiorses and a wagon. He was born in Washington, New York, August 22, 1813, and is the son of Ebenezer and Paulina (Donlen) Harrington. He was reared a farmer, and educated in the common schools of his native state, finishing his education in the Homer Academy, in Cortland county. New York. He early engaged in teaching, but principally followed the business of farming through life. Soon after his arrival in what is now Lee county he bought a claim of Moses Crombie, and when the land came into market entered and bought it from the government. This farm he still (1881) owns. November 14, 1843, he married Miss Zerina, daughter of Cyrus and Pluma (Burton) Chamberlin, a native of the State of New York. The issue of this marriage is three children living: Inez lone, Chester E. and Cyrus C. Mr. Harrington has always made it his home in this count}', except fourteen years spent in Ogle county, where he also owned a farm. While in Ogle countj' he was four times elected by the people of Grand Detour township to fill the position of supervisor, and was in the spring of 1881 elected supervisor of the township of Naehusa. Besides the first land he entered in Sec. 13, T. 22, R. 9, he also owns a farm of 160 acres in Sec. 19, T. 21, E. 10. Mr. Harrington's principal business is stock raising, though he also farms to some extent.

John Garrison, farmer and stock raiser, Naehusa, is a son of William and Amelia (Oman) Garrison, and was born in Columbia county, Pennsylvania, July 29, 1835, and came to Lee county, Illinois, with his parents in the spring of 1845, arriving here June 4. Thus it will be seen that John Garrison early became identified with Lee county. He was i-aised on the farm and educated as a hardy son of toil, with but a very slim chance of school learning. March 26, 1861, he was united in marriage with Miss Maranda, daughter of Mr. Jonathan and Sallie A. (Klintoh) DePuy. She was born in Luzerne county, Pennsylvania, June 3, 1842, and came to Lee county with her parents when a small child. They are the parents of eight children :

Emma J., wife of C. B. Brader; Charles A., Addie M., George H., Priscilla M., Lucinda R., Elizabeth E. and Jacob F. In the spring of 1806 he moved on the fiu-m where he now lives, in Sec-. 25, T. 22,11. 9. His real estate comprises 240 acres of good land. Ilis home farm is one of the very desirable ones of Nachusa township. He is engaged in stock raising as well as farming.

ALEXA^-DEEDEPL-T,farmerand stock raiser, Nacliusa, son of Jonathan and Sallie A. (Klintob) DePny, was born in Lnzerne county, Pennsylvania, December 7, 1838, and came to Lee county, Illinois, with his parents in 1846. Here young Alexander grew to manhood, with only such educational advantages as were afforded in this county at that time. Like his father he was reared a farmer and thoroughly trained in all that pertains to agricultural pursuits. In 1801 he enlisted in Co. C, 34th reg. 111. Vol. Inf. He took part in the great battle of Shiloh; was with his regiment during its three years' campaigns; reiinlisted as veteran with the same company and regiment, and with the same was honorably discharged in 1865. February 15, 1866, he married Miss Mary A. Bitner, a native of Somerset county, Pennsylvania. She was born June 11, 1S40. They have no children of their own, but have an adopted child, Daisie May. Mr. DePuy is now actively engaged in farming and stock raising. His home is one of the beautiful locations of this township.

Geokge J. Grrr, tarmer and stock raiser, Nachusa, son of William and Lydia (Wilt) Gitt, was born in Adams county, Pennsylvania, October 5, 1844. During his early youth he lived in town, but was principally engaged in working on a farm and to a limited extent attended school, and by applying himself to study and observation he has gained a fair business education. In 1863 he became a soldier in the war for the LTnion in the 165th Penn. Inf. After his discharge he engaged in railroading. In the spring of 1865 he came to Lee county, Illinois, and began working on a farm by the month. May IS, 1868, he married Miss Samantha, daughter of James Dawson, a native of Union county, Ohio. They have two children : Cora M. ami James W. In March, 1873, Mr. Gitt took charge of the old and well known farm of Joseph Crawford, Esq., and still continues to successfully can-y on the business of farming and stock raising.

Henry Bothe, farmer and stock raiser, Amboy, was born near Mindon, Prussia, December 26, 1841 ; he was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools of the country of his birth. In the summer of 1859 he left the home of his childhood and sailed for America, landing in Baltimore July 4 of the same year. Four days later he came to Lee county, Illinois. Here he found his father, who had preceded the family to prepare a home for them on their arrival.

Here yonng Henry engaged in tanning with his father till September 9, 1S61, when he enlisted to tight the battles of his adopted country, but was discharged on account of disability, September 8, 1862, thus losing his bounty due him as a three-years soldier. For a number of years Mr. Bothe suffered from the effects of disease contracted while in the army. He was married September 4, 1864, to Miss Catherina Hotzel. She was born in Germany, January 14, 1844, and came to this country in 1847 with her parents and settled in Lee county. They are the parents of eight children : Fredrick W., Anna E., John H., Christian F., Minnie H., Elvina C, Katie M. and Lillie C. In 1868 Mr. Bothe bought his present home farm of 132 acres, in the south part of Naciuisa township, where he is engaged in farming and stock raising, and by prudence, industry and good management is making it a success.

Israel Slothowee, grain dealer, Nachusa, was born in Adams county, Pennsylvania, April 24, 1843. He was reared a farmer, as was also his father, who died when Israel was but three years old. His educational advantages were only such as the common schools of his native state aflbrded. At the age of eighteen 3-ears he entered as an apprentice to a blacksmith. After learning the trade he followed the business till he entered the army as a soldier in the war for the Union. After his discharge he came to Lee county and engaged in the blacksmith business at Nachnsa. This he followed three years, then went to Iowa, bought, opened up and improved a farm, which was, on June 18, 1870, swept over by a terrible tornado, completely demolishing his new home and all his improvements, the accumulation of years of labor and industry. He, however, again rebuilt his home, but soon after sold out and returned to Nachusa and engaged his services to Mr. John Dysart, then in the grain trade at Nachusa, and two years later became partner with Mr. Dj'sart in the business and has since managed the business to the entire satisfaction of all parties. His wife was Miss Jennie A. Stover, a native of PeHns3'lvania. They have three children : Anna N., Retta B. and CaiTie.

This townsliip is in surface gently undulating, or rolling prairie, the eastern portion iteing quite rolling, the western more level, and some portions low and flat. There is very little land but can be used either under ]ilow or as pasture for stock. The soil is a rich, black loam. Plum Thicket, a grove of about twenty- acres, situated nearly in the center, is the only natural grove in the township. The Plum

Tliicket run is the only stream in Alto township. There are four or five driven wells from 100 to 200 feet deep. There is plenty of good wholesome water, nearly soft, on every farm. Wells are from fifteen to fifty feet in depth.

Alto was first settled at Plum Thicket. The first house built there in 1847 by John Grimes, the first settler, is still standing. The old state road running fj-oni Ottawa to Galena passes through this township. On this road the early judges were wont to travel with pistol in hand (on their wa}- from Ottawa to Galena), there being many hard, reckless characters, who roamed through this countr}' engaged in horse stealing, and almost as dangerous as Black Hawk in his day and age. A wagon-road was laid out from Paw Paw to Rochelle, running through this township, in 1856. The above roads have since been abandoned, and wagon-roads are now laid out and well worked on most of the section lines ; one or two are on quarter and half sections. The first famil}' settling in this township, in 1843, was that of John Grimes, now dead. The second, who came about two years later, was the Rev. J. Wood, a Baptist preacher, who remained two or three years and removed to Earlville, La Salle county, Illinois. The next coming into Alto was Mr. Jeddediah Loneridge, coming in about 1852, who remained about twenty years and removed to Nebraska, and has since died. Mr. Loneridge was noted for his skill at making baskets and various other useful articles. Mr. James Holcomb and father's family were the next comers, followed by Mr. Hubbel Williams and Mason Herrick. Soon after came the Mills family, James Tyler, and C. R. Hall, followed by the Kirbys, McDonnels, Stewards, Carpenters, and others, filling the township up quite rapidly.

Organization

A petition for organization was presented by the citizens to the supervisors of Lee county, and at a meeting held in the school-house, district No. 3, April 3, 1860, they organized by appointing Hiram C. Holcomb chairman ; Charles R. Hall was elected moderator, and James Tyler clerk. Being duly qualified by H. C. Holcomb, justice of the peace, the polls were declared open at nine o'clock. At this meeting a !notion was made and carried that the town be divided into four road districts. A motion was also made to levy a tax of forty cents on §100 for road purposes; a motion was also made and carried to raise two mills on the dollar for town expenses. A motion was niade and carried to keep up all cattle at night, and if left out and damage was done, for first ofiense the owner to pay all damages, for second ofi'ense the owner to pay double the damage. A motion was made and carried that every man be his own pound-master. At the close of the polls the following first town officers were declared elected (forty-seven votes were polled) : for supervisor, C. R. Hall ; town clerk, James Tyler ; collector, Josiah Carpenter ; assessor, James Tyler ; justices of the peace, Daniel Carey and H. C. Holcomb ; constables, Josiah Carpenter and John Dorson ; overseer of poor, Jeddediah E. Loneridge ; commissioners of highways, James A. Smith, Roan McClure, and M. Mills. Its present officers are: supervisor, Gardiner W. Thompson ; town clerk, S. J. Whetston ; assessor, James Kirby ; collector, Owen Kinney ; commissioners of highways, John Dunn, Irving Gordiner, and O. E. Kickalson ; justices of the peace, W. F. Gallaher and S. J. Whetston ; constables, Owen Kinney and R. N. Coleman ; town treasurer, Harmon Yan Patten ; school trustees, George Carey, James Kirby, and M. M. Miller.

In the winter of 1869 and 1870 there was an agitation commenced as to a railroad through Alto township from the southeast to the northwest, known first as the Hinckley road, now the Chicago & Iowa railroad. Great excitement was caused and much opposition made toward the enterprise. A call was made for a meeting to see if the citizens were willing to subscribe for $32,000 bonds, payable when the track was laid, and cars running on the same. The meeting was held, and upon vote being taken it showed as a result nearly two-thirds in favor of the scheme, or 93 for and 50 against. A survey was made and grading commenced on Monday, September 26, 1870, and the enterprise was pushed ahead rapidly, and on December 31, 1870, it was finished to Kochelle, Ogle county, and trains sent over. Then there was a lull and no regular trains were run till April 1871, and only once a day till 1872. The great Chicago fire and the panic occurring about that time had a depressing effect through this section, and a few years later the $32,000 bonds were compromised and reduced to $25,000, and at a lower rate of interest, and have since been reduced to about $15,000. The railroad offices and warehouse were in Wesley Steward's barn for some time after the road was in operation.

There are two creameries in Alto township, the Alto creamery being widel}' known. It is located on Sec. 5, half a mile south of the Ogle county line. In 1873 several farmers united, with a capital of about $5,000, erecting a suitable building for the manufacture of butter and cheese, milk being furnished from 125 to 250 cows. The creamery has been kept in continual operation since commencement. John H. Bacon is superintendent and salesman and Daniel Carey is secretary. There is a small factory called the Walnut Grove creamery owned and carried on by John Walker, and is located on the east line and about

There are seven school-houses in the township, costing $8,000. There are seven school districts, one a union with Willow creek in the southeast corner of Alto township. Alto has a school fund of $10,000. Miss Carrie Wiiitcomb, now Mrs. George Addy, was the first school teacher in Alto township. The school building in district No. 3, located at Steward, is one of the finest and best built structures for school purposes in Lee county. It cost nearly S-lr,000. It has four large, commodious rooms, on two floors, beside ante-rooms, cloak-rooms, etc. The other six houses are also good substantial buildings, costing about $700 each.

The Steward Methodist Episcopal Church

A meeting was called and held in the railroad depot April 1874:. At this meeting a building committee was chosen and elected. The committee were J. C. Curry, H. A. Robinson, H. Van Patten, V. W. Wells, Jeremiah Tyler, Jas. A. Smith, Merritt Miller, R. M. Piele, and John Tetter. M. L. Barnott was elected treasurer, and J. C. Curry clerk. The committee proceeded at once toward their work, having a plan drawn by Perkins Richardson, of Aurora. The plan was adopted and the contract was at once made with T. J. Labdell, of Paw Paw, for its erection. The building was completed and ready for dedication September 6, 1874. Trains were run free from Chicago and Mount Morris, and a free dinner was served on the day of dedication. The church is the finest building of its kind between Aurora and Rochelle. It is 36x52, and 28 feet high to the eaves, with steeple about 80 feet high. It has a fine basement room, the whole size of the building, for Sunday-school purposes. The church has seating for about 500. It is free from debt and l)oth church and Sunday-school are in a flourishing condition under the pastoral care of Rev. W. II. Tibbals and T. J. Lawton, superintendent of Sabbath-school. The original cost of church building was about $5,000. Its present ofticers are Wesley Steward, T. J." Lawton, Y. W. Wells, H. Van Patten, and C. W. Herbert, trustees, and T. J. Lawton, treasurer.

C. W. Younggren, secretary; C. Vanderventer, treasurer. The other charter members were J. L. Dj-as, H. W. Brj'ant, F. Fitzgerald, W. R. Bauinbach, J. N. Prentice, J. Mullins, C. W. Younggren, and C. Vanderventer. On May 22, 1880, the JST. G. of Fidelia Lodge, No. 635, by request, appointed a committee, consisting of Brethren Harris, Hallet and Younggren, to confer with brethren of the order residing at Steward and vicinity to consider the propriety of removal of Fidelia Lodge to Steward. At a STibsequent meeting the committee i-eported tavorable, and upon vote being taken it was unanimously carried to petition the Grand Lodge for removal, and upon receipt of the petition the M.W.G.M., G. W. Berggren, deeming it for the best interest of the order, granted a warrant for removal. The lodge as now situated in the village of Steward is in a very healthy condition, being financially and socially strong. Its present officers are A. R. Michael, N.G. ; W. B. Griffith, V.G. ; John Dunn, treasurer, and S. J. Whetston, secretar}'.

Alto township now presents such a contrast in comparison to its first settlement that one not accustomed to its beautiful groves and hedges would take it for a country well and naturally wooded. Most of the farmers are engaged in grain raising. Francis and Geo. Carey, Wesley Steward and Gardiner W. Thompson are largely engaged in sheep raising. Several farmers have put in drain tiling, finding a tine percentage of gain in crops. When this township was first settled the land was bare of tree, shrub or fence. Now there are several beautiful groves of walnut, maple and willow, as well as miles of fine hedge fences of willow, osage, maple, etc.

Steward

STEWARD. The village of Steward is situated a trifle west of the center of the town (if Alto. Its location is excellently' drained, the water suppl}' is bountiful, easily obtained, and is justly celebrated for its purity. The town is located on the Chicago & Iowa railroad, just halfway between its termini, Aurora and Forreston. It was surveyed and platted just subsequent to the completion of the above named road, in the year 1870, and although its growth has not been rapid it has been of a healthy and substantial character. Tiie village derives its name from Wesley Steward, Esq., upon whose farm the town was laid out. At this writing it contains a population of two hundred people. It has always been aided by its founder in all schemes for the promotion of the common welfare, and in these he has had the valuable assistance of an unusually intelligent community. The business of the village is extensive and of a growing character. As a grain shipping point it has few equals in the state, the large country tributary to it and the liealtliy competition in tbe business combining to make it a good market for the cereal crops. Live stock is also largely shipped, and it is a good distributing point for the lumber and coal trades. In the general merchandise line the business is very fair.

The grain trade is the largest in importance, and is represented by tvro firms, whose. combined business is very extensive. The first, as to timeof location, is that of Wesley Steward & Co. (Wesley Steward and G. F. Henning). They have a steam elevator with a capacity of 35,(iOO bushels. The others, Messrs. Christopher Jorgens l^' Co., are later comers, but are doing a large business. Their elevator capacity is about 15,000 bushels. Both of these houses are largely engaged in other lines of trade, such as lumber, coal, lime, salt, etc., and their business is drawn from a wide-spread territory. Among other prominent business houses is that of H. A. Robinson, dealer in groceries, dry goods and drugs. Mr. Robinson has been postmaster of the village ever since its inception. W. T. Preston, groceries and notions; E. O'Neil, grocer; V. A. Billion & Co., hardware and agricultural implements; W. P. GriflBth, blacksmith and wagon shop; S. J. Bowles, harness; O. I. Selgelid, boots and shoes; G. A. Ruckman & Co., meat market; C. Foster & Co., churn manufacturers; S. J. Whetston, paint shop; A. A. Chilson, agent American Express Company, and Chicago & Illinois railroad.

The people of the village and surrounding country have reason to congratulate themselves on the high moral tone and general intelligence which pervades their community. That they have good grounds upon which to base their claims in this regard is evidenced by their church and school accommodations. Tiie Methodist Episcopal church have erected in the village a handsome edifice at a cost of $5,000, and have also a neat parsonage for their pastor. The present occupant of their pulpit, the Rev. W. H. Tibbals, is very generally esteemed.

The graded school is another evidence of the general thrift and prosperity. The building, just completed at a cost of $4,000, is an ornament to the village, and one of wliich more pretentious towns might justly be proud.

The Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran church, located in Alto township, was organized June 25, 1870. At tlie meeting Michael Knutson was chosen chairman and Rasmus O. Hill secretarv. Prayer being offered they proceeded to adopt articles of faith and confederation and to elect officers. Peter O. Espe, Peter O. Hill, and Elias O. Espe were

The chnreli is prettily situated on the southeast corner of four corners, one mile west of De Kaib county line, and three miles south of Ogle county line, and three miles directly east of Steward ; its size is 36x56, 16 feet high, and it has a seating capacity for about 400. It has yard and sheds for teams. Its cost was about $2,300, and it is clear of debt. Public services are held twice a month. The Sunday-school averages about fifty. The society is in a quiet and healthy condition.

The present officers are Rasmus O. Hill and John Abelson, pastors ; Peter O. Hill, John Oleson, and Nels Ullestad, deacons ; Elias O. Espe, Ole J. Kroe, and C. J. Knutson, trustees, and S. H. Sanderson, secretary. The Sunday-school superintendents are Peter O. Hill and Nels Ullestad.

Wesley Steward, grain and stock buyer and shipper, lumber, coal, etc., Steward, was born in the Susquehanna valley, at the foot of the Alleghany mountains, Pennsylvania, October 27, 1837. He removed with his parents to Illinois, locating in Kendall county, in June 1838. His mother, eighty-two years of age, is still living. His youth and early manhood, till twenty-two years old, was spent at home on the farm. He removed to Lee county, locating in Alto'township in August 1858. He received a limited education, mostly in a saw-mill, from a Dabach aritlimetic, Webster's speller and reader. He has held every office in the gift of his township. Mr. Steward was married December 3, 1862, to Julia A. Short, who died in August 1869. He was again married January 6, 1873, to Mary A. Billion, who died March 14, 1881. He has two children: Bertha and Guy. Mr. Steward is one of the largest farmers and stock raisers in this township. He has about 1,000 sheep. Has raised in one year 840 acres of wheat, and has over 2,100 acres in this township and vicinity. He has also control and management of about 1,300 acres belonging to his brother Lewis, living at Piano. He is also largely engaged in grain and stock buying and shipping and dealing in lumber and coal. He has one of the largest elevators between Chicago and the Mississippi river. Mr. Steward was largely influential in getting the Chicago & Iowa railroad (formerly known as the Hinckley road) through this township. Mr. Steward is one of the most enterprising and influential business men of this section. The village and post-office were named in his honor.

Gardner W. Thompson, farmer, Lee, was born in Pittston, Wj'oming Valley, near Wilkesbarre, Pennsylvania, July 11, 1841. His worthy parents are both living, liis father, Isaac Thompson, whose portrait represents Alto township, eighty-four and mother at eighty-two years of age. He received a coiDmon school education in Pennsylvania, and spent iiis youth and early nianiiood till twenty-four in that state. He came west and located in Alto township, Lee county, Illinois, in 186-i. Mr. Thompson tried hard to serve his country in the late civil war, enlisting live times, but every time was taken with severe sickness, disabling him for service. He is at this writing supervisor of Alto township, making the seventh consecutive time elected to this office. He has held other local town offices. ]\Ir. Thompson was married April 26, 1873, to Mary E. Howell. They have one child, Frank G. The aged and worthy parents of Mr. Thompson are now living with him ; they are the parents of fifteen children, the one now living with them being their youngest. The father of Mr. Thompson was born, reared and lived on the old homestead in Pennsylvania fifty-eight years. They have been worthy members of the Methodist Episcopal church about si.xty-five years. Mr. Thompson has a 240 acre farm, and is largely engaged in sheep raising, having about 200. He also has 30 head of horses and other stock, and a well cultivated farm, and is one of Alto's most popular citizens.

Maj. Thomas J. Lawton, farmer. Steward, was born in Jefferson county, New York, August 11, 1813. He received a common school education in his native county, but he spent his youth and young manhood in western New York, at Rochester and Buffalo. The title of major he won during a fill ibustering expedition in the years 1836 and 1837, it being at the time of the Canadian rebellion against the queen of England, and had many thrilling adventures during these months. At an evacuation from Navy Island about forty were barely saved from going over the falls at Niagara. On March 4, 1837, they had a skirmish on the ice near Point An Pellee Island on Lake Erie. In the spring of 1838 he went to Cleveland, Ohio, and in 1839 removed to Circleville and engaged with M. L. Barnett in the jji'ocerv business, (they also owned and run boats on the Ohio canal from Portsmouth to Cleveland,) remaining till 1841, when he removed to Piqua, Ohio, and with iL L. Barnett engacjcd in the forwarding and general irrain and commission business till July 1871. In 1871 he removed and located in Alto, Lee county, Illinois. In 1861 Maj. Lawton raised Co. K, 1st Ohio, remaining with his company about one year, when he was ordered to head<juarters and promoted and served as brigade and division quartermaster during his term of enlistment. He has been local justice of the peace of Alto at Steward for several years, and has also held other local town offices. In the year 1850 he went with a company of ninety persons on an overland trip to California vvith ox teams for mining and trading purposes, where he remained two years. Politically he is a republican. He was married in 1840, to Angeline E. Crocker. They have one daughter, Mrs. Gilbert F. Ileming, of

Steward ; have buried four sons. He has, suice locating west, been engaged in grain and stock buying and siiipping. Mr. Lawton is a Royal Arch Mason, a leading member of the Steward Methodist Episcopal church, and, for one of his age, one of tlie most active business men of this section.

Kev. "W. H. Tibbals, pastor of the Steward Methodist Episcopal church, Steward, was born in Athens county, Ohio, May 28, 1829. His mother, seventy-nine years of age, is still living. His youth, till nearly twelve years of age, was spent in Ohio on a farm. His father and fiimily moved to Illinois in 1841, and he consequently knew many of the hardships of early pioneer life, having to go eighty miles to mill. In 1850 Mr. Tibbals went to California in search of gold, going overland and returning by the Isthmus and New Orleans to Delaware, Ohio. Upon his return he commenced study at the Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware, graduating in 1855 ; he then joined the Pittsburg conference, Pennsylvania, and remained twelve years in that conference. He then came west and joined the Rock River conference, Illinois, in 1867. In the spring of 1862 he was elected captain of Co. L, 14th Penn. Cav., going to the front on the Potomac with his regiment. After about eight months he resigned to accept the colonelcy of the 2d Ohio Inf., at the hand of ex-Governor Todd, of Ohio. At the expiration of the six months for which the regiment was enlisted he was engaged for about two years in making speeches and recruiting men and taking them to the front. Mr. Tibbals is a leading member and preacher in the Methodist Episcopal church and has never lost a Sunday or an appointment during his ministerial life. March 24, 1857, Mr. Tibbals married a niece of ex- Governor Ford, of Ohio. Tiiey have three children living: Mary, Dilla, and William, and three dead. He has a 331 acre farm in Alto township clear of debt, and has put up a new windmill and a large new barn this season. His farm is being well managed.

HoLDEN P. Ely, Lee, was born in Norway, April 17, 1832. He received a common school education at home, where his youth was spent till twenty-two years old. On April 24, 1855, he started for America, landing at Quebec, Canada, and coming directly to Bradford, Lee count}', where he worked at the blacksmiths' trade for three years and then commenced farming. In 1865 he removed to Alto township. He is a member of the Evangelical Luthei'an church, Lee county congregation. He was married January 1, 1858, to Julia G. Sexy. They have seven children : Peter, Julia, John, Bertha, Helle, Carrie, and Martin. He has a good farm of 160 acres stocked and under good cultivation.

father still lives, June 1, 1830. He received a limited common school education in his native country. His young manhood till twenty-five years of age was spent as a sailor. In 1855 he came to America, landing at Quebec, Canada. Coming directly west he located in Bradford township, Lee county, Illinois, and commenced farming, remaining about ten years. He then removed to Alto township. He is a member of the Evangelical Lutheran church, Lee county congregation. He was married June 21, 1863, to Thurbor Oleson. They have five children : Gury, Peter W., John O., Martha M., Johanna M. He has a farm of 320 acres, under good cultivation, with good buildings, and is a leading citizen of the township.

Vincent W. Wells, farmer, Kochelle, was born in Sullivan, Madison county, New York, November 21, 1826. His parents are dead. He was educated in the State of New York. His youth till about fifteen was .spent in Madison county, New York, on a tarm. About 1841 he removed with his parents to Orleans count}'. New York, remaining till twenty-three years of age. He then went to Virginia and remained one year and returned, removing with his parents in 1850 to Pembroke, Genesee county. New York. In 1856 he came west, locating first at Piano, Kendall county, Illinois, where he lived four years. He then removed to Lee county. He has held several local town ofiices. He was married January 13, 1856, to Elizabeth Rawley. They have one child, an adopted daughter. He has a fine 200 acre farm, well stocked, having some very tine Norman horses. Mr. Wells is also specially engaged in the manufacture of butter, having a fine building, with all modern improvements, for the business. Mr. Wells started with about 8600 when he located in Illinois, but he has grown to be one of Lee county's best farmers. Mrs. Wells had a brother killed b}' the Cheyenne Indians in Chase county, Nebraska, about October 7, 1878.

M. L. Bakneit, book-keeper and cashier for W. Steward & Co., Steward, was born in Herkimer county. New York, April 2, 1814, where his youth till eleven was spent. His education to a limited extent was received in Broekport, New York. In 1825 he removed to western New York, remaining till 1836 in a commercial office. He then went to Cleveland, Ohio, where he was also employed in a commercial office till 1839, and then removed toCircleville and engaged in the grocery business till 1843. In 1844 he removed to Piqua and commenced in the grain, provision, and transportation business, continuing till 1870. In 1871 he came to Illinois, locating at Steward, Alto township, there being but one family here at that time. He was married January 4, 1836, to Sarah E. Crocker, who died October 30, 1868. He has three sons and three daughters. His family is largely above the average in intelligence and worth. His children are: Helen A., now Mrs. William C. McClure, of East Saginaw, Michigan ; Mary Kate, housekeeper for father; Mattie L., now Mrs. H. T. Chappel, of Zilwaukee, Michigan; Charles C, auditor of Miami county, Ohio; Sam O. and Frank P. at home. He is one of the staunch men of honor, holding several trusts for different parties, and is a self-made man.

Ole I. Selgelid, boot and shoe business, Steward, was born January 2, 1S49, in Norway. His parents are still living. He received common school advantages in Norway, where his youth was spent till sixteen at home on farm. He then learned the boot and shoe makers' trade and was thus employed in his native country' till 1875, when he emigrated to America, landing in the city of New York and coming directly to Creston, Ogle county. Soon after he came to Alto and worked for three years on a farm. He then located at Steward and engaged in the boot and shoe business, which he has since continued. He is a member of the Evangelical Lutheran church and in politics a republican. He was married in 1879 to Carrie Sandvek. They have one child, Ed. Christopher.

V. A. Billion, hardware and agricultural implements, Steward, was born in Onondaga county, New York, June 6, 1858. His father died in 1860, and his mother March 14, 1881. His youth till ten years of age was spent in his native town. His education was received principall}"- in Illinois. In 1868 he moved toKochelle, Ogle county, Illinois, with his mother, where they lived nearl}' eight years, and then moved to Steward, Alto township. He was married September 29, 1879, to Carrie E. Ciiarabers. They have one child, Oved. He keeps a full line of goods; is carrying on a liveh' trade, and shows the usual energy manifested by Steward's merchants. Mrs. Billion's mother was burned out of house and home about eight years since, at Kochelle, losing all their personal eftects.

Joira Seveeson, farmer, Lee, was born May 17, 1836, in Norway. His parents are both living, at an advanced age. Mr. Severson spent his young days, till twenty-one, at home on the farm. He had the advantage of the common school in Norway. June 20, 1857, he landed in America at Quebec, Canada, and came directly to Illinois, locating in Kendall county, where he remained about twelve years, working a farm on shares. He then moved to Alto, Lee county, and bought a farm of his own. He now has 320 acres under good cultivation. He has held local town offices; is a member of the Evangelical Lutheran church, and in politics a republican. He was married November 24, 1863, to Martha Newton. They have eight children living.

20, 1840, and came with his lather and mother to this country about six years later, landing at the city of New York, and locating soon after at Albany, where they remained three or four years. They then came west and settled in McHenry county, Illinois, and commenced farming. Mr. Patterson remained at home till about fifteen years of age and then came to Ogle county and worked out on a farm till 1861. He then rented a farm and worked it till fall, when he enlisted in Co. H, 46th 111. Vol., Inf. and reenlisted in January 1S63, as a veteran, and remained till February 1866, when he was mustered out of service. He had limited common school advantages in Illinois. His parents are both living. He is a Baptist in religion and a republican in politics. He was married in February 1863, to Eunice Carpenter, and they have six children. He has now a 1!>0 acre farm.

W. E. Hemenway, farmer. Steward, was born in Will county, Illinois, January 3, 1845. His mother is still living. His youth, till sixteen, was spent at home on the farm. In 1848 he moved from Will to De Kalb county. In 1861 he enlisted in Co. F, 27th 111. Inf , serving three years, and was honorably discharged in November 1864. During 1866, 1867 and 1868 he was lumbering in Wisconsin and Jlichigan. He is a member of Sunbeam Lodge, A.F. and A.M., of Piano, Kendall county. In politics he is independent. In LSiiO he was married to Cyntha Dewey, who died September 1876. He was married again in December 1878, to Elsie J. Cox. He has three children, two by first and one by second marriage. Mr. Hemenway is working 160 acres on shares, and is a breeder of Hereford bulls and Berkshire hogs. His farm is under good cultivation.

A. H. Todd, farmer, Creston, was born in Stamford, Connecticut, August 1827. He had common and select school advantages in Connecticut, where his youth and early manhood, till twenty-five years of age, was spent. At that time he came west and located at Sandusky, Ohio, being employed on the Mad River railroad as civil engineer, to Tiffin, Ohio, remaining about one year. The cholera raged so badly that all parties scattered. Mi'. Todd returning east to Connecticut. About 1860 Mr. Todd came west again, locating at Dement (now Creston), and bought a fiirni, as now located, in Alto. In religion he is an Episcopalian, and in politics a republican. Mr. Todd is an own cousin to the late Com. Foote. His father was a distinguished Episcopal clergyman at Stamford for forty years.

MEERirr Miller, farmer. Steward, was born in Luzerne county, Pennsylvania, October 4, 1842. His youth, till fifteen, was spent in that state in a mill with his fatiier. He was educated partly in Pennsylvania and partly in Illinois, and removed west in 1857, locating in Willow creek, and commenced farming. In the fall of 1865 he re- moved to Alto township, as now located. He has taught school several terms during the winter since coming to Illinois. August 24, 1862, he enlisted in Co. K, 75th 111. Vol. Inf., and was mustered out June 24, 1865. He has held several local town offices, is a chapter Mason, and a republican in politics. He was married October 11, 1867, to Carrie Norton. He has 320 acres of land well stocked and under good cultivation.

Morris Cook, farmer. Steward, came to Illinois in 1856, locating first at Piano, Kendall county, where he remained ten years, and then removed to Alto, Lee county. He was born in Monmouth county, New Jersey. He received his education in New Jersey, and his youth was spent at home on the farm. Mr. Cook married, May 16, 1844, Elizabeth Cooper. They have eight children living. His family are above the average and among the progressive. Mary (Mrs. C. Van Noat) lives at Mason City, Iowa ; Cassie (Mrs. Owen Kenney) at Scranton, Iowa; James and John are also at Scranton ; Jane (Mrs. Barton Neer) at Alto, and George F. at Alto; Libbie, and Morris, jr., are at home. He has a splendid farm of 320 acres, stocked and under good cultivation. Mr. Cook is of a retiring nature, but highly esteemed among his neighbors and townsmen.

Henry Southard, farmer, Steward, Lee county, was born in Green county, New York, April 4, 1825. He was educated to a limited extent in VanBuren county, Michigan, where his youth and young manhood, till twenty-one years of age, was spent engaged at farming. He removed in 1835, when about ten years old, to Cayuga county. New York, living there three years. In 1846 he came to Big Rock, Kane county, Illinois, and engaged at farming. In 1849 he caught the gold fever, and in April, 1852, went to California, remaining about four years, and returned in September 1856. Until 1859 he lived at Big Rock, Kane county, when he removed to Alto township. He is a Chapter Mason, and a democrat in politics. He was married February 24, 1850, to Esther S. Reed. They have three sons and two daughters. He has 420 acres of land, all under good cultivation and well stocked, and is among the leading farmers of this section.

Charles B. Davis, farmer, Steward, was born in Lewis county. New York, March 29, 1844. His parents are living in Lewis county. New York. He received common school advantages in his native county. His youth was spent at home on a farm. He came to Illinois in 1869, and located at Piano, Kendall county, where he remained five years on a iarm, and then removed to Alto. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and is a republican. He was married March 24, 1864, to Mary A. Dewey, and they have two children living : Cynthia A. and Edna M. Mr. Davis is managing a 440 acre farm, the property of

Milo C. Dewey. He is largely engaged in butter-making and milks forty cows. Their butter, through the skill of Mrs. Davis, brings always the highest market price. Mr. Davis is one of the pushing young farmers of Lee county.

W. T. Feestox, general merchant Steward, was born in Kendall county, Illinois, near Newark, December 6, 1839. His youth and young manhood, till twenty-one, was spent there on a farm. He received district school advantages only in his native county. His venerable and worthy raotlier is yet living on the old homestead. In March, 1800, Mr. Preston removed to Rej-nolds township, Lee count}', living there on farm till spring of 1876, when he moved to Steward, Alto township, and engaged in the general goods business. April 2-i, 18G1, he enlisted in Co. K, 20th 111. Vol. Inf , going at once to the front. January 4, 1864, he reenlisted as a veteran and marched with Sherman from Atlanta to the sea, and was mustered out July 24, 1865. He is a member of the I.O.O.F. and a republican in politics. October 3, 1S66, he was married to Corrilla A. Coleman, widow William Coleman. Mrs. Preston has three children by first marriage. Mr. Preston carries a full line of general merchandise and also owns two residences and lots, is doing a prosperous business, and is among the leading business men of Steward.

Henry W. Dunning, farmer, Creston, was born in Orange county. New York, February 23, 1828. He had the advantages of a common school, principally in his native state, where his youth till si.xteen was spent on a farm ; moved to Tompkins county, New York. In 1843 he came west and located at Rockford, Illinois, and farmed for about five years, and then engaged in milling at New Milford, near Rockford, for two years. In 1861 he nnnoved to Lee county, locating in Alto township. He is a Master Mason and also belongs to the I.O.O.F. In politics he is a greenbacker. He was married in March 1856, to Emma A. Morse, who died in February 1866. He was again married, July 4, 1868, to Mary Millenger, from whom he was divorced in October 1876. In Februar}', 1880, he was married to Louisa Bennett. He has two children. He has a 220 acre farm under good cultivation, and other propertv' in Creston, Ogle county. Mr. Dunning is now permanently located at Creston. His son, Irving IL, manages and lives on the farm in Alto. Hattie M. (Mrs. B. Rice) now resides at Ellsworth, Kansas.

Cakoline Hill, farmer, Creston, widow of Peter Hill, was born in Norway, August 31, 1826. She had limited common school advantages in Norway, where her youth was spent. Slie emigrated to America in 1849, landing in the city of New York and coining directly west to a Norwegian settlement on Fox river. La Salle county. In the spring of

1850 they went to Leland and bought eighty acres of land, remaining fifteen years. They then removed to Alto, Lee county, in 1865. She is a member of tlie Evangelical Lutheran church. She was married to Peter Hill in 1848. Mr. Hill died October 31, 1875, aged fifty-five years, leaving Mrs. Hill with ten children, three of whom are now married, and the other seven are at home. Mr. Hill was an invalid for many years, and the management of the farm largely depended on Mrs. Hill. The cliildren are: Peter P., of Lee station; Ole, of Capron ; Julia Ann (Mrs. Thorson), of Alto; Caroline, Bertha M., Charles, Andrew O., Benjamin, William P. and Nels at home.

Clang Osmundson, farmer, Creston, was born in Norway, February 17, 1831. He was educated in his native country, where his younger days were spent at home on a farm. He came to America in ISol, landing at Quebec, Canada, in June, and going directly to La Salle county, Illinois, where he remained about six years. He then removed to Fillmore county, Minnesota, staying about five years, and improving a farm. He then sold out, and in the spring of 1865 returned to Lee county, and located in Alto township. He has held several local town offices, and is a republican politically. He belongs to the Evangelical Lutheran church. On July 1, 1858, he was married to Carrie O. Hill, who died March 29, 1878. He has six children, and owns a good farm of 280 acres, well cultivated and stocked.

William S. Heerick, farmer and physician. Steward, was born in West Randolph, Orange county, Vermont, May 3, 1838. His parents are botli dead. He received common school and academic advantages in AVcst Randolph, Vermont, also attended the University of Vermont, at Burlington, through the sophomore year. Then going to Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire, he graduated in 1860 with the degree of A.B. He also graduated from Rush Medical College, Chicago, in February 1866. He left Vermont in August 1860, going to Natchez, Mississippi, where he stopped a short time and then went to New Orleans, Louisiana, where he staid till December 1860, and returned north to Mendota, La Salle county, Illinois. In June, 1861, he commenced reading and the study of medicine with Dr. E. P. Cook, which he continued till July 1862, and then entered the quartermaster's department, under Gen. Buell, but returned to Chicago in October of the same year, and in December, 1862, entered the navy, enlisting as an able-bodied seaman. At Cairo, Illinois, he was promoted to hospital steward, serving as such and assistant surgeon till February 1865, when he was honorably discharged. Returning to Vermont he attended medical lectures at the University of Vermont, as before stated, a season of about four months. He then went to Chicago and attended Rush. Medical College. After graduating he went to

Troy Grove, La Salle county, Illinois, and practiced for two years, and at Meriden, same county, one year. In tlie spring of 1869 he removed to Willow creek, Lee county, and in 1871 to Alto township, his present home, where he has been farming and practicing since. He is a Master Mason and in politics a republican. He was married in September 1870, to Lucy Ann Eeams, widow of Charles Reams. She is the daughter of the late Robert Thompson. They have three (laughters,

Hakmon Van Patten, farmer. Steward, was born at Glenville, Schenectady county, New York, July 14, 1836. He received a good education in his native town and at Mount Morris Rock River Seminary, Illinois. His youth and early manhood, till twentj'-two, was nearly all spent at Glenville on the farm. Coming west, he lived for about nine months in Detroit, Michigan, and then came to this county and located in Willow creek, being employed in a nursery for one year. In March, 1861, he located in Alto township, where he has since remained engaged in agricultural pursuits. He has held several town offices ; is a Master Mason, a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and in politics is a republican. He was married March 17, 1861, to Hannah jSTettleton, who died January 6, 1875. Ho was again married September 4, 1878, to Nettie Fuller. They have live children. He has a farm of 280 acres.

William F. Carpenter, farmer, Steward, was born in Elmira, Chemung county, New York, March 25, 1838. His education was received partly in New York and partly in Illinois. Until about eighteen his youth was spent at Elmira on a farm. In March, 185G, he moved to Illinois, landing at Roehelle, where he remained one year and then came to Alto in 1857. He has been school director, is a member of the Baptist church, and is a republican in polities. In 1864 he was married to Gertrude Foster, who died January 17, 1872. He has a fine farm of 240 acres, under high cultivation. Mr. Carpenter has seen some trying seasons since locating here, having lost his wife and two children by death. He has paid in an early day nearly as much for seed wheat as the crop brought, on account of failure of crops. Mr. Carpenter had, when starting, |300, and after hard work for a 3'ear, had his creditors pressed him, he would have been $500 in debt, but keeping on in his usual determined way, is now one of the substantial farmers of Alto township. In 18C8, Mrs. Carpenter's health failing, they started for Minnesota in the hope of regaining it, but in the spring of 1869 they returned, Mrs. Carpenter not being benefited. In the fall of 1S69 they went to California, remaining eighteen months, and returning in 1871 to their farm, where Mrs. Carpenter lingered till 1872, when she died. Mr. Carpenter, with Miss Carrie Whitcomb (now Mrs. Geosge Add^', of Wisconsin), were the first to organize a Sundaj'-school in this township in the year 1858.

Gilbert F. Henkixg, farmer, Steward, was born at Piano, Kendall county, Illinois, May 5, 181:7. His mother is still living, but bis father died June 1881. Mr. Henning's father was one of the oldest settlers in Illinois, coming west in 1836. Mr. Henning received a common school education, mostly at Piano, where his youth and manhood, till the age of twenty-four, was spent. In 1871 he moved to Alto. In politics he is a republican. He was married in October 1875, to Angle S. Lawton. They have one child, Burt. Mr. Henning has a 275 acre farm, and also owns an undivided half of 270 acres in Alto township, and 160 acres in Reynolds township. He is also half interest holder in the firm of Wesley Steward & Co., in the lumber and coal business. He also buys and ships grain and stock. He is an enterprising young business man, and stands well among his townsmen.

H. A. Robinson, postmaster and general store, Steward, was born in Onondaga county, New York, in 181:1. His parents are both living. He received a common school education, partly in New York and partly in Illinois. Till fourteen his youth was spent in New York on a farm. In 1866 he removed to Illinois, locating at Paw Paw Grove, and engaged in the cultivation of hops, and also at the carpenter trade. One year was also spent in Bureau county. In 1871 he removed to Steward, Alto township, building the first store in the town, and commenced merchandising. He has held the office of town clerk four years, is a Master Mason, and in politics a republican. He was married February 1879, to Ceriah F. Morris. They have one child, Lester. Mr. Robinson has an eighty acre farm in Re3'nolds township, and carries a full line of general merchandise.