Livingston County, Illinois - Chapter with an unread heading (no. 25 of those read), 1909 (part 15 of 17)

The family have heen typical pioneers, and in this country were early prominently identified with farming and the cattle trade on large scales, and to the occupation of farming and cattle-droving Eli Strawn devoted his attention after coming from Ohio to Illinois in 1829. He was over six feet in height, had black hair with grey eyes and a ruddy complexion, while his wife was of medium stature and dark complexion. The education of both was limited to the elementary branches acquired in the primary schools of their day, and both were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and regular attendants on the services of that denomination. Jeremiah Strawn, the grandfather of Christopher C., on coming to Illinois from Perry County, Ohio, in 1829, settled south of the Illinois River Valley one and one-half miles from Florid, Putnam County. About the same time came bis three brothers and one sister, being Joel, who settled on the North Bluff of the same valley, four miles west of Ottawa in La Salle County : John, who settled on the South Bluff of the same valley, four miles in the southeasterly direction from what was then Richmond but is now Lacon, in Putnam now Marshall County; Jacob, who settled four miles southwest from Jacksonville, in Morgan County; and Elsie, wife of Joseph Armstrong, who settled on the south table land of the same valley about seven miles southwest from Ottawa, in La Salle County, and who was the mother of a large and prominent family of that name in that county.

The ancestors of the Strawns in this country were of Scotch blood, the name in Scotland being originally Strahan, liam Strahan, a lawyer and a man of letters, removed from Scotland to England in the latter part of the seventeenth century, where during his professional career he served six terms in the British House of Commons, and was the translator of "Domats Civil Law" from the original French into the English language, in two volumes published in 1722. The late Reuben S. Strawn, Chief Justice of Oregon, was of this family. Records in Quaker churches in Western New York show the expulsion of Strawns from that communion on account of their enlistment in the Revolutionary Army, since which time the family seems generally to have been affiliated with other denominations of the Protestant faith.

Mrs. Elinor Strawn, the mother of Christopher C., was a daughter of Captain Lunsford and Naney (Gale) Broaddus, of Caroline County, Virginia, where Captain Broaddus carried. on an extensive tobacco plantation, but being strongly opposed to slavery, emancipated his slaves and removed to the east table lands of the Illinois River Valley. about one and one-half miles east of Lacon, then known as Richmond, in Marshall, then Putnam County, Illinois, where the marriage of their daughter to Eli Strawn took place January 1, 1888. The Broaddus family, of Welch origin, have been in the United States from early colonial days. >

Christopher C. Strawn acquired his primary education in the typical Illinois log school-house on his father's farm, the place of his birth, in the vicinity of Ottawa. Ill., and in the district school near his grandfather's farm in Putnam County. Still later, he attended the Lacon (111.) High School, in the meantime making his house with his grandfather Broaddus. Then, after taking courses successively in the Umlauf Seminary at Ottawa, Tllinois, in the Northwestern University (Evanston) up to his junior year, and in the Albany (N. Y.) Law School, he com- pleted bis law studies in the office of Arrington & Dent in Chicago, and in June, 1863, was admitted to the Illinois State Bar, and for the next two years was engaged in practice in Chicago. Then removing to Ottawa he there spent one year, when he went to Omaha, Neb., but fifteen months later returned to Illinois, locating in Pontiac, which has been his home and where he has continued in practice to the present time.

Mr. Strawn's youth was spent for the most part on the farm amid the customary conditions of that period. Inclined to the student life, he took an interest in law, literature and politics; in 1858 heard the debate between Lincoln and Douglas at Ottawa, and, although born and educated a Democrat, he thought Lincoln had the better of the argument over his adversary, and naturally took a deep interest in the celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of that event held in Ottawa in 1908. As a boy and young man, he was interested in such works as "Hugh Miller on The Rocks," Victor Hugo's "Les Miserables," Macaulay's Essays, Gibbon's "Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire," and history and Political Economy generally, but cared little for games or sports.

Under the first call for troops issued by President Lincoln the day after the fall of Fort Sumter, Mr. Strawn enlisted in Company I, Eleventh Illinois Volunteer Infantry, serving from April 16, 1861, for three months. This was the first company organized in La Salle County, with Capt. Wm. L. Gibson in command, Col. W. H. L. Wallace, who was later killed at Shiloh. commanding a brigade. At the expiration of his term of service, although in the hospital. he tendered his re-enlistment for three years, but was rejected on the ground of disability, the physicians declaring him then unfitted for military service in any capacity. This was a serious disappointment to the ambitious young soldier. From the hospital he was sent to his home and for eight weeks was not expected to live, and for twenty-five years did not fully recover. Upon the breaking out of the Spanish- American War, Mr. Strawn again manifested his martial spirit by raising a regiment for that struggle, of which he was elected Colonel, but owing to the number of regularly organized State militia regiments already organized and ready for the field, Illinois' quota was full, and his regiment was not called into service.

On March 20, 1863, while reading law with Arrington & Dent in Chicago, Mr. Strawn was married at 187 Wabash Ave, Chicago. to Miss Clara Frances Bouvrain, born on the Bonaparte estate near Watertown, N. Y., January 14, 1843, a daughter of John B. and Rose (Dumont) Bouvrain, both parents being of straight French blood and birth. John B. Bouvrain, the father of Mrs. Strawn, served as a soldier under the First Napoleon in the against Moscow in 1812, and three years later took part in the Battle of Waterloo, which ended the career of the famous French soldier. In entering upon his career as a soldier. Mr.

Bouvrain left school in Paris at the age of nineteen years. His father of the same name, was also a soldier in Napoleon's army, rising to the rank of Major in the "Old Guard," in which he served from the period of the campaign in Egypt up to the Battle of Waterloo. After the fall of Napoleon, the father and son and others of the "Ola Guard," came to America with Joseph Bonaparte where they located on the large estates of the latter near Watertown, N. Y., and there Mrs. Strawn was born. For the first two years after their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Strawn yesided in Chicago, but in the spring of 1865 removed to Ottawa, Ill., a year later going to Nebraska, where they spent some fifteen months, first at Omaha and later at Columbus, Neb., in June, 1867, returning to Ottawa, Ill., and on September 1, 1867, locating at Pontiac, TL, which has since been their home. At his various places of residence since being admitted to the bar in Chicago in 1863, Mr. Strawn has continuously followed the practice of his profession, alternated with brief intervals of newspaper work, at two different periods being the owner and manager of newspapers, first at Columbus, Neb., as proprietor and editor of the "Golden Age in 1866-67. and again in 1907, occupying a similar connection with the "Pontiac (111.) Sentinel.

Mr. and Mrs. Strawn have had four children, named respectively: Virginia Bonaparte, born in Chicago, December 28, 1863, died June 24, 1879; Louis Francis, born in Omaha, Neb., November 2, 1866; Roscoe Belmont, born in Pontiac, Ill., November 30, 1868, died September 26, 1907; and Christopher Columbus, Jr., born in Pontiac, December 25, 1871, died October 12, 1879. Mrs. Strawn still survives. Louis Francis Strawn, survivor of his three brothers and sister, is prominent as a lawyer and student of the military art, having studied at the Military Academy at West Point, N. Y., and had experience in the Porto Rican campaign in the Spanish-American War as a First Lieutenant in Company F, Third Regiment (Infantry) I. N. Gs in which regiment he is now the ranking major. He has a son Christopher Columbus, born at 4:15 p, m., July 14, 1896, at 428 W. Washington St., Pontiac, Ill.; Virginia Lee, born at 11:30 p. m., June 25, at 514 N. Main St., Pontiac, UL; and Marjorie Frances, born at 11:15: pe Ms October 23, 1907, at 819 No. Chicago Street, Pontiac. They are of the now latest generation from Launcelot Strawn. The wife of Louis Francis. was Esther Marie Tracy, whose parents, Albert S. and Mary Tracy, were born respectively in Jefferson and Oswego Counties, N. Y. They reside in Pontiac, Illinois, where he has practiced his profession of law and arms for more than twelve years.

In religious faith, Mr. Strawn is a Presbyterian, having become a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Pontiac December 11, 1904. Fraternally, he is associated with T. Lyle Dickey Post, Grand Army of the Republic, Pontiac, Il., of which he was a charter member, and has served as Commander, Chaplain and in minor positions.

The official positions held by Mr. Strawn include that of State's Attorney for the, Twentyfirst Judicial Circuit composed of Livingston, Kankakee and Iroquois Counties, to which he was appointed by Gov. John M. Palmer in October, 1870, as successor of Mason B. Loomis (resigned) after a sharp contest with James N. Orr, of Kankakee County, as competitor. After serving out the unexpired term of his predecessor, Mr. Strawn was for three terms elected City Attorney of Pontiac; was also a member of the local committee which secured the location of the Illinois State Reform School (now the State Reformatory) at Pontiac, in 1869; was a member of the Committee that received Gen. Grant at dinner at Pontiac in 1880; was Chairman of the Committee that received President Roosevelt the day he delivered the dedicatory address of the Livingston County Soldiers' Monument at Pontiac, Ill., June 3, 1903, and served as President of the Lincoln Centennial Anniversary Exercises at Pontiac on February 12,

Reared as a Democrat, Mr. Strawn confesses he got his first "political jolt" when he heard the reply of Lincoln to Douglas in the debate at Ottawa in 1858, although he could not then understand how it was possible for Douglas to be in the wrong. As a consequence he remained, with here and there a side-step, with the party in which he was born until 1865, when the conviction of the fundamental errors of the Democratic party and of the sophistries of Douglas as an apologist for slavery, dawned upon bim in the light of the Civil War and the struggle for the preservation of the Union, and he then became a Republican. He stumped the State for Gen. Grant for President in 1868 and 1872; was a supporter of the philanthropist, Peter Cooper, on the Greenback or Independent Reform ticket in 1876; in 1878 was the nominee of the same party for Congress in opposition to Greenbury L. Fort, Republican, and Thomas M. Shaw, Democrat, carrying his own county and several of the principal towns of the district, and reducing Fort's majority over the combined opposition from 3,000 at the election of two years previous to 139 votes. In 1890 he was endorsed by the Livingston County Republican convention for Congress, but was defeated in the District Convention by J. K. Wheeler of Kankakee. He was again endorsed by his county for the same position in 1894, but lost in the District Convention to Walter Reeves of Streator. For President, he favored Gen. Grant for a third term in 1880, but was a supporter of Gen. Weaver at the election; of Gen Benj. F. Butler in 1884; of Gen. Benjamin Harrison in 1888 and 1892; of Mr. Bryan in 1896; of Mr. McKinley in 1900; of Roosevelt in 1904; and of Mr. Taft in 1908, and on general principles he is a Republican, always sustaining that party in everything involving its original tenets. Today he is a zealous admirer of Mr. Roosevelt, whom he ranks in his direct and patriotic methods with Lincoln and Washington in his own land and with Cromwell in England, and whose future he believes he foresaw when he read the first speech made by Roosevelt at St. Paul after the Spanish-American War; is a warm supporter of the political policies and methods of Gov. Deneen and believes in a direct, plurality primary law, the deep waterway, and other related policies, State and National.

SUTTON, George A. - Public opinion is largely molded by the newspapers, especially in the smaller places, where the local paper is a power. In Fairbury, Livingston County, 111., "The Blade" is the Republican organ for the county and its editor, Mr. Sutton, has many enthusiastic readers and followers. Mr. Sutton is the junior member of the firm of Fulton & Sutton, publishers, and senior member of the firm of G. A. Sutton & Co., real estate dealers. He was born at New Milford, Pa., June 2, 1861, a son of the N. K. and Henrietta (Reynolds) Sutton, and great-grandson of the Sutton who was Quartermaster during the Revolution. Receiving a common school education, Mr. Sutton early commenced earning his own living as a clerk, in his boyhood being employed in a grocery store owned by N. K. Sutton & Son, but in 1879 left home and going to St. Paul remained there a short time when he left that city for Braidwood, Ill., where he found employment in a general store owned by L. H. Goodrich. In September, 1882, he came to Fairbury to accept a clerkship for Walton Brothers Company, grocers, and after nine years of faithful service, in 1892 embarked in a grocery business for himself, but later for seven years was a traveling salesman for the Royal Worcester Corset Company. In 1888 he had purchased "The Fairbury Blade," a Republican paper, with the printing plant connected with it, which is now owned by the firm of Fulton & Sutton, who also are editors of the paper. In 1901 Mr. Sutton formed the firm of G. A. Sutton & Co., for the purpose of buying, selling and handling real estate and the success which has attended this venture attests to his good judgment in embarking in it.

Mr. Sutton was married on February 24, 1886, at New Milford, Pa., to Nellie Moss and they have two children, Kate E. and Hugh M. The family have a delightful home on the corner of Third and Ash Streets, Fairbury, where they dispense a charming hospitality. Mr. Sutton is a member of the Masonic fraternity and has taken all its degrees in Fairbury. He is also a Mystic Shriner, belonging to Mahomet Lodge of Peoria. He and Mrs. Sutton are Episcopalians. Mr. Sutton is a man who has learned from direct contact with the sources of contemporary knowledge, and in his mature years has given his attention to his literary work, although he is practical enough to be able to look after the business end as well and to make a complete success of anything he undertakes.

SWARTZ, John August, one of Long Point Township's representative citizens, whose superiority as a general farmer and successful stockraiser is demonstrated by the excellent condition of the farm of 320 acres which he oper- ates in Section 23, together with the fine herds of cattle and large amount of stock that can be seen distributed over his pastures. Although Mr. Swartz is one of America's best satisfied citizens, he is not a native of the United States, having been born June 17, 1859, at Smolander, Sweden, where his father lived and died, America is indebted to that land for many of her best citizens, and among those who left Sweden, May 6, 1881, to find a home on America soil, was John August Swartz.

Mr. Swartz found employment near Verna, Il, where he labored for three years for Robert lloff, saving his money in the meanwhile, so that by 1885, he was able to rent a small farm in Marshall County. As his mother had been left a widow, the son wished to care for her and sent her the means to join him, which she did reaching Marshall County in 1886. He was a member of a family of nine chidlren whose record runs as follows: Augustus William remained in Sweden. Frank A. came to America in 1881 and now lives in California. John August was the third in order of birth. Otto A. came to Illinois and was subsequently killed in a railroad accident at Peoria. Matilda married Carl Boastron, and they live in California. Christiana married Chrles Peterson, who is a farmer near Groton, S. Dak. Emma married Emil Varner and lives at Peoria, Ill. Carl F, enlisted in the regular army, served in 1898 in Cuba and was sent to the Philippine Islands, where later he was killed in a battle with the natives. Oscar lives at Lacon, Ill,

After his mother joined him, Mr. Swartz remained on his farm for a time, she keeping house for him, but later he went to work again by the month, and on August 20, 1888, he was married to Miss Ida Gustafson, who was born August 15, 1862, in the same parish in Sweden as had been his home, and she came to America in 1886, They had been neighbors and friends all their lives. After his marriage, Mr. Swartz continued to work by the month for the next three years but in 1891 rented a farm near Winona, from a Mr. Evans, which he conducted until 1895, when he went to Dana, LaSalle County, Ill, when he rented a farm from W. T. Law. In 1904 he rented Jesse Evyert's farm and here he has resided ever since, Mr. Swartz is an excellent judge of stock and has given a great deal of attention to the Norman horse and at present has twenty head of those noble animals. His sleek cattle are a cross between the Hereford and Short-horn, these being excellent for both milk and beef. In hogs Mr. Swartz has found after experimenting, that the Poland-Cihna do best in Illinois, At the present writing (1908) he has 175 acres of his land in corn and the promise of one of the greatest crops of this section.

Mr. and Mrs. Swartz have had a family of five children born to them, as follows: "Huldah, born at Winona, Ill., February 24, 1889; Edna, born September 18, 1892; Elsa, born August 29, 1897; Marie, born September 16, 1900; and Orval, born August 10, 1903, Mr. Swartz and family belong to the Swedish Lutheran church, Since becoming a citizen he has supported the principles and candidates of the Republican party. He is a self-respecting, honorable and useful man, and is highly regarded by all who know him.

SWIFT, William H. - The life of the farmer and stock raiser of Central Illinois, while a healthful and remunerative one, is not one of leisure. Nature demands her toll, and the man who wishes to be successful must spend many years of hard and faithful labor before he accomplishes what he sets out to do; but success is certain to come to those who are in earnest, and a finely cultivated prosperous property is worthy of any amount of hard toil. William H. Swift, of Long Point Township, Livingston County, IN., has spent a long period as an agriculturist and stock man, and he is now the owner of an excellent tract of eighty acres in Section 21. Long Point Township, as well as another property of 120 acres in Emmet County, lowa. Mr. Swift was born on his present farm, November 9, 1864, a son of Robert S. and Sarah H. (Smallwood) Swift. Mr. Swifts parents were born, reared and married in Coshocton County, Ohio, and came to Livingston County, Ill.. about 1850, purchasing eighty acres of land in Long Point Township, this property being then a raw prairie. Mr. Swift (Sr.) developed this land into a well cultivated farm and kept adding thereto until he owned 120 acres. on which he spent all of his life. He was one of the Township's progressive men and always bore an enviable reputation for honesty and integrity. At the outbreak of the Civil War he enlisted in Company H, Seventy-seventh Regiment, Illinois Volunteer Infantry, with which he served his term of service, as a brave and faithful soldier. For some time he was incapacitated for duty and was taken to the hospital at Keokuk, Iowa. Ever since the war, Mr. Swift had been suffering from heart trouble, and while on a pleasure trip from Ottawa to Clambake Shoals down the Illinois River, he was stricken and called to his final rest. August 13, 1901, his burial taking place at Long Point. He and his wife were the parents of seven children. as follows: Francis the wife of D. H. Carlton, a farmer of Section 35, Long Point Township; Rev. John H., of Sandy Lake. Pa.: H. Toler, Second Assistant Superintendent of Public Instruction. at Springfield. m.: M. Eva, wife of Rev. Stephen H. Zendt, of Oskaloosa, Iowa. and William H.

William H. Swift was born and reared on the farm which he now occupies, and was educated in the public schools of which he has for many years been a Director. In 1885, he and his brother, John H., took charge of the old homestead, and three years Jater he took entire charge himself. With his first $100. Mr. Swift went to Los Angeles, Cal., where he spent the winter of 1885-86. Te traveled extensively, visiting twenty States and Territories before his marriage, February 8, 1893, to Miss Kate Degman, born near Minonk, Woedford County, Nl., daughter of Michael Degman, who died when she was but three years of age. Mr, Swift lived all his life on the farm he now owns in Long Point Township, and in 1898, purchased forty acres in Section 29, which, in February 1901, he traded for eighty acres of the old homestead, paying some money in addition. He also owns 120 acres of finely cultivated land in Emmet County, Iowa. He is a practical farmer and stock-raiser and a great lover of fine horses, breeding Norman and French Draft Registered animals. He has been identified with the growth years, and his ability has been recognized by his election to various township offices on the Republican ticket. For ten years he has been School Director, served four years as Deputy Sheriff, nine years as Constable, six years as Assessor, One year as Collector and three years as Road Commissioner. He has shown himself a conscientious and able public official, and to him must be given much credit for the vart he has taken in making Livingston County what it is. Socially, he is connected with the Modera Woodmen of America of Long Point. and Mrs. Swift belongs to the Royal Neighbors. They have two children: Howard H., born October 24, 1894, and Harold M., born June 5, 1900.

SWING, Joseph G. - That concentration, good judgment, faithfulness, cheerfulness and integrity constitute the most forceful equipment of men who compose the distributive or mercantile element of business, finds confirmation in the career of Joseph G. Swing, a yariously interested resident of Fairbury since 1891, and since June 18, 1907, a purveyor of groceries, hardware, stoves, paints and oils, buggies and farm-implements in that region. Good birth and breeding, practical educational and general advantages, aud that incentive to purity of character and lofty ideals which come of valued memories of one's nearest of kin, who bespeak for this popular business man a career of exceptional success and trustworthiness. Mr. Swing spent the early years of his life in Akron. Ohio, where he was born August 10, 1861, and where his father, Carl Swing. was engaged in the tailoring business,

Carl Swing was born at Frankfort-on-the- Maine, Germany, and amid scenes familiar to the great Goethe, passed from boyhood to manhood, equipping himself in the meantime in the art of ladies' high class tailoring. From the first dawn of seriousness his nature was profoundly religious, and this inclination grew in after years to potential proportions. Realizing that the United States offered larger opportnuities than existed in his native land, he came here while still a young man, and after locating in Akron, Ohio, married Salina Bollinger, a native of Schaufhausen, Switzerland. In 1877 he brought his family to Livingston County, Ill., locating on a farm south of Chatsworth, where his death oc- curred August 10, 1880, while at the zenith of his powers. The untimely passing of Mr. Swing was the more to be regretted, as he had just become located in the midst of the most favorable of agricultural surroundings, and it seemed that many more years of happiness and usefulness remained to him. His tailoring or farming operations were really secondary avenues of activity, for his mind and heart dwelt constantly upon the moral condition of the race, and for many years he sought its uplift as a preacher in the German Christian or Amish church. The self-sacrificing and impersonal labor of Amish clergy appeals to men of high moral caliber and unselfish character, as they receive no stipulated compensation, working solely for the cause in which their sympathies are enlisted. Mr. Swing was an exception even among these consecrated men, and his devotion and faithfulness won him the confidence and gratitude of many outside of his own denomination. He had a hearty. cheerful and inspiring nature, and one received moral courage from bis handshake and cheery greeting. In his wake there arose better community feeling, greater honesty, nobler aspirations and cleaner, saner living, and of him it may be truthfully said that he Jeft the world the better for his having sojourned in it.

The wife whose aims and sympathies were so closely knit to those of Mr. Swing survived him until February 9, 1900, To them were born five sons, of whom John. the oldest died at the age of twenty-nine years; Charles died in infancy; Henry is a farmer near Remington, Ind., and as were his parents, is a member of the Amish church; Albert also is a farmer in Wolcott. Ind. ; and Joseph G. is the merchant of Fairbury.

Joseph Swing was educated in the public schools of Akron, Ohio, and was sixteen years old when his parents removed to Livingston County. He continued to live on the farm with his mother until 1882, and that year they located near Fairbury, where Mr. Swing operated a farm for about five years. February 23, 1885, he was united in mariage to Annie Schippe, a native of Zurich, Switzerland, and of the union there were two. children, Walter and Annie, the former of whom was born in February, 1887, and the latter June 12, 1888. The death of Mrs. Swing occurred June 16, 1888, four days after the birth of her youngest child. After coming to Fairbury in 1891, Mr. Swing worked for a short time in the Walton Brothers' elevator, then engaged as clerk in the hardware store of Frank Hobbs, with whom he remained about six months. Until that firm sold out he was connected with the business of Swing & Steidinger as a partner, and for the following four years clerked for different hardware stores, in 1895 starting a hardware business of his own, which he subsequently disposed of. He then engaged in the drug business until June 18, 1907. when was established his present mercantile concern. This store is a model of neatness and order, and in its management the soundest business principles prevail.

Misrepresentation is never allowed or resorted to, and fair priced goods, courteous treatment and unquestioned integrity are building up a business which must reap gratifying financial returns.

_ The second marriage of Mr. Swing occurred in February, 1888, to Eugenia Hoffmann, a native of Illinois and of French descent. Of this union there were four children: Joseph, a clerk in his father's store; Mary, Willie, and Jacob. Mrs. Swing passed away on June 12, 1900, and eventually Mr. Swing married his present wife, formerly Lydia Hoffmann, who is the mother of five children: Eugenia, Lizzie, Harvey, Christina and Philip. Mr. Swing inherits the religious convictions of his parents, and became a member of the Amish church at the age of nineteen years. He has since been an active worker in the church, and in his daily life reflects its principles and teachings. As is the custom with all members of this religious denomination, he does not vote, but his inclinations are with the Republican party. A genial and kindly nature contribute much to his influence among the complications of modern life, and the force bred of sincerity and definite purpose draws irresistibly the finest compensations of living.

_ SWORDS, John William, a man who has the Sincere respect of all who know him as a suecessful and enterprising resident of Long Point, Ill., and foreman of Section 1 of the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad between Ancona and Dana. He was born near Indianapolis, Ind., September 16, 1854. a son of John Swords. The mother died when John William Swords was a baby, and his father died in 1862 when the son was only eight years old. He was the only child by his father's second marriage. By his first marriage John Swords had four children: Mary the wife of Anderson Gagawry, with whom John William made his home for some years, but they now reside in Oklahoma; Emma the wife of Frank Moore resides in Los Angeles, Cal. ; Luther lives at Dana and is foreman of another Section of the A. T. & S. F. Railroad; and Calvin is a gold mine inspector of Colorado.

After the death of his mother, the father married for the third time, but died in 1862, and after living with his sister for a time, John William went to live with his Uncle Joseph, with whom he remained two years. In 1868 he came to Peoria, Ill., with a man by the name of William Douglas. At Peoria the lad went to work in a coal mine. his work being the filling of the coal cars, and on account of his faithful service, he was promoted to the position of check weighman. From 1868 to 1873 he worked in the mine, but in the latter year engaged as a teamster, thus continuing for three years. In 1880 he left Peoria and came to Long Point where he obtained a teaming contract. On March 16, 1881, Mr. Swords married Elida Bennett, a native of Livingston County, and daughter of Peter Bennett, one of the pioneers of the county, who married Phoebe Martin of Ohio. He was born in Canada and died in 1890, his widow surviving and still living at Long Point, aged seventy-five. Mrs. Swords has one' sister, Leonore L. For a year after marriage Mr. and Mrs. Swords rented rooms of her parents, but in 1882 bought two lots on Main Street, Long Point, and there built a residence.

Mr. Swords followed farming and teaming until March 20, 1892, when he accepted a position on the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad, as foreman, on Section 1, out of Long Point, and later built one of the best dwellings in the village, an eight-room house, all fitted with modern appliances, and here they reside with their interesting family. They have had eight children: Byron Ross, born June 22, 1884, Station Inspector of the A. T. $. F. Railroad, with headquarters at Topeka, Kan., he having begun work in the service of this road with his father and gradually climbed to his present position; Roy W., born May 13, 1890, a bright young man engaged in business; William, born September 20, 1892; Russel, born October 15, 1896. Lella Irene, born August 14, 1900; Lavon W., born January 15, 1904,

Mr. Swords is a self-made man, who with but little education and no money. has through his own efforts worked hard from boyhood up to his present responsible position, and gained the confidence of his neighbors and associates. He has amply provided for his large family, and owns one of the nicest homes in Long Point as well as twenty-one valuable town lots. The handsome shade and fruit trees in his yard were all planted by him before and after his day's work was over. For seventeen years he has been in the employ of the same company, which gives evidence of appreciation of his faithful service. Both Mr. and Mrs. Swords are members of the Christian Church, of which Mr. Swords is deacon, and they are very active in its good work. Mrs. Swords, who is a member of the choir, was born September 6, 1864, and is really a remarkable lady. Not only has she been a devoted wife and a careful and conscientious mother, but she has found time to engage in outside work, and is now Vice-President of the local W. C. T. U., and is joined with her husband in enthusiastic work in pushing the crusade that swept the State in 1908 and resulted in the closing of so many saloons. She is an eloquent speaker, possesses great executive ability and is a good organizer; is also prominent in the Ladies' Aid Society and is always to be depended upon in any emergency. Mr. Swords is a Prohibitionist in politics, fraternally is a member of the I. O. O. F., the K. of P., M. W. A. and Royal Neighbors, and for seven years he has been an officer of the M. W. A., and under his able management the small camp has been expanded until it now has 100 members. Mrs. Swords takes an active interest in the Eastern Star, and both she and her husband are in entire sympathy in their good work, and each is proud of the other.

a substantial material reward, but also to secure the respect and confidence of all with whom they are brought in contact. While there are those who profess not to care about the opinion of their neighbors, no right feeling man can afford to disregard it, and he prizes it to the highest extent when he has honestly won it. Among the reliable, sound and respected men of Livingston County, James H. Taggart of Wenona, Ill., deserves special mention,

Mr, Taggart was born in Belmont County, Ohio, September 9, 1839, a son of John Taggart . and Nancy (Roberts) Taggart, the former born May 10, 1808, in Lancaster County, Pa., and the latter born in Toronto, Canada, October 10, 1812, Mrs. Taggart came to the United States in 1816 and settled in Belmont County, Ohio, to which Mr. Taggart had come in 1810. They were married March 16, 1828, at St. Clairsville, Ohio. By occupation the father was a farmer, and James H. Taggart was reared on the farm, working when not attending school during the nine months it was held. He had the advantages afforded by the common and high schools of his period. Eight children were born to his parents, namely: Joseph R., Catherine, Atwell M., James H., Mary J., Lydia A., Wilson S., and Agnes D.

In 1863 Mr. Taggart came to Illinois and until 1882 he was profitably engaged in farming and stock raising near Lacon, Ill., but in that year he retired from the farm to Long Point, Livingston County, to embark in a grain and live-stock and lumber business in that town. For the following thirteen years he was thus engaged, but in 1895 he removed to Wenona, IIL, where he founded the well known house of Taggart & Son, his son Harry being the junior member, and they now carry on a large grain business with marked success, liberal supporters. While he has never left the United States, Mr. Taggart has traveled considerably in his own country, and is a very well informed man.

On December 15, 1863, Mr. Taggart married, at Bethesda, Belmont County, Ohio, Josephine L. Murdock, who was born at Mt, Pleasant, Ohio, October 31, 1844. He and his wife came to Illinois the same year, first settling in Lacon, Marshall County, where they remained five years, when they removed to Long Point, Livingston County. Mr. Taggart there engaged in the lumber and grain business in which he continued for thirteen years, when he sold his interest to his son-in-law, Oscar B. Wheeler, and removing to Wenona in the spring of 1898, retired from active business. (See sketch of Oscar B. Wheeler on another page.) Mr. and Mrs. Taggart have had the following family: Luella H., born November 4, 1864, at Lacon, Ill, is now the widow of T. C. Colehouer and a resident of Normal, Ill.; Maud R., born March 5, 1868, at Lacon, Ill., is wife of Oscar B. Wheeler, of Long

Although in his seventieth year, Mr. Taggart is actively engaged in business and is one of the representative men of his community. During his long and prosperous career, he has succeeded because he has taken a deep interest in whatever he attempted and understood it thoroughly. He and his family have many friends throughout this part of the State, and their pleasant home at Wenona is often the scene of large gatherings, the hospitality of this household being well known and appreciated.

TAMBLING, Myron W., one of the most enterprising and prosperous farmers of Livingston County. Ill., as well as one of the leading citizens of his locality, resides in Round Grove Township, where be is the owner of 320 acres of very productive and well-improved land. Mr. Tamblíng is a son of Villeroy A. and Harriet (Morgan) Tambling, the father having been born in St. Lawrence County, N. Y., and the birthplace of the mother being in Connecticut. The maternal grandfather was a brother of Governor (and afterwards Senator) Morgan, of New York. Villeroy A, Tambling and Harriet Morgan were married in Ohio, whence they moved to Illinois, locating in Freedom Township, LaSalle County. For a while the father carried on farming there, and then took up his residence in Ottawa, Ill.. where he followed the trade of a carpenter. Thence be went back to Ohio, where his wife died. Returning to Ottawa, 111, he enlisted, in April, 1861, in the Eleventh Regiment, Illinois Volunteer Infantry, for threemonths' service, and at the end of the term reenlisted in the Fifty-third Illinois. Later, he was promoted to a captaincy and assigned to the command of a company of the Thirteenth Colored Infantry, continuing thus until February, 1866, He took part in the Siege of Vicksburg, the Nashville campaign, etc., and at the termination of the war resumed carpenter work at Ottawa, which he followed until 1870. In that year he moved to California, where he has since lived, except during a brief sojourn in Colorado,

In early youth Myron W. Tambling attended the district schools, and completed his studies in Grand Prairie Seminary. He was then employed as clerk in a general store, after which he applied himself to farming. In 1863 he moved to Livingston County, and in 1876 rented a farm of 160 acres in Round Grove Township. On this place he lived until 1902, having meanwhile bought 120 acres of land in 1895, which he also farmed. In 1901 he purchased 200 acres adjoining the latter on the north, and, in the following year, made his home there. On these two pieces of land he has put many improvements, including a house and barn.

On March 8, 1876, Mr. Tambling was united in marriage with Emma Elizabeth Slyder, who was born in Peru, LaSalle County, Ill., and is a daughter of Jesse and Hannah (Lininger) Slyder, natives of Pennsylvania. The father of who moved to Livingston County at an early period, and became well known. Eight children were the offspring of this union, as follows: Albertus M., who married Hattie Beaty; Jesse Allen, who married Clara A, Brown; Harriet Louise; Robert Roscoe; Myron Earl; Emily Alice; Villeroy G., and Lila B.

Politically, Mr. Tambling is an earnest and influential Republican, and has serevd six years as Supervisor, besides holding other township offices. In fraternal circles, he is affiliated with the Independent Order Odd Fellows, No. 513, of Dwight, 111.; and also belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is one of the most prominent men in his town- Ship, and he and Mrs. Tambling are held in high regard by a large acquaintance.

TEACH, Jacob, Owego Township, Livingston County, Ill. The success which was achieved by the subject of this sketch was such as might have been predicted for one of his lineage and environment. Wherever the German has made his home in America he has been a living force for material prosperity and for educational, religious and political progress. Of such ancestry as is here suggested Mr. Teach made his way in the world by virtue of such inherent traits as have been referred to, and he was not less fortunate in the high esteem in which he is held by his associates who survive him than he was in the friendly regard which they bestowed upon him while he lived.

Jacob Teach was a native of Franklin County, Pa., and a son of Peter and Betsey Teach. He was born June 19, 1817, and for a time attended one of the old subscription schools then in vogue in his part of the country. He was. reared in the faith of the United Brethren Church with which he was identified during his life. He began his active career as a laborer by the month and, in course of time, served an apprenticeship at the cooper's trade, in which he became expert. In 1853 he came to Fulton County, Il, where he farmed upon rented land until 1867, when he removed to Owego Township, Livingston County, where he bought eighty acres of unimproved land at twelve dollars per acre. With characteristic energy, he set himself to the task of its improvement and as fast as circumstances and conditions would admit he developed into an enterprising and successful farmer and stock-raiser.

In November, 1841, Mr. Teach married Catharine Barnhart, who was a native of Pennsylvania and a daughter of Jacob and Catharine (Ream) Barnhart. Of their children nine are living: John H. is a resident of Chicago; Amanda is Mrs. J. K. Dunn of Pontiac; Emeline is Mrs. George W. Dale of Edmond, Okla.; Eliza is Mrs. Henry Dunn of Fulton County, Ill.; Jacob and Oliver live in Chicago; Cornelia married William Van Camp and lives in Fulton County, Ill.; Adelia is Mrs. John A. Ripsch, of

In politics, Mr. leach was a Republican, patriotically alive i the interests of his county, State and country. As a business man he was successful perhaps beyond his amoition. He died on his farm in Owego Township June S, 1888. For a time after his death his widow managed the place, meanwhile spent much of her time with her children, but in 1903 sold the farm and has since been a member of the household of her daughter in Pontiac.

THIEL, Peter, who has industriously and profitably followed farming in Pike Township, Livingston County, Ill., for more than thirty-five years, is a native of Germany, where he was born March 17, 1838. His father and mother, Peter and Mary (Magt) Thiel, also Germans by nativity, remained all of their lives in the fatherland, where Peter Thiel, Sr., followed farming tor a livelihood. The subject of this sketch was brought up on the small farm cultivated by his parents, attending the public schools from the age of seven to fourteen years, as required by law. and on reaching manhood, commenced farming for himself. On emigrating to the United States he first located in Wisconsin, whence he afterwards moved to Marshall County. Ill., and thence, in the course of time, to Livingston County. He bought eighty acres of land in Pike Township in 1872, and has since increased his land holdings to 120 acres, all of which is wel] improved. On this place he has long continued to carry on general farming and the raising of stock. Besides the home property, he is the owner of 160 acres of land in Iowa.

On February 27, 1867, Mr. Thiel was joined in matrimony with Mary Heinrich, born in Bavaria, a daughter of Andrew and Eva (Kuntzel) Heinrich, natives of Germany. Ten children have been born to this union. as follows: Magdalena, Margaret, Rosa, John, Peter, Michael, Katharina, Simon, Anna and Mattie.

THOLE, Herman, M. D. - From the time of his arrival in Dwight, Ill.. in October, 1865, until his lamented death, April 19, 1885, Dr. Herman Thole gave conscientious evidence of his ability as a physician and surgeon, and was highly honored because of his unremitting devotion to the health and sanitation of his adopted town. He represented the patience, painstaking and profound learning of German scientists, and he spoke the excellent German for which the kingdom of Hanover has ever been famous, where he was born January 14, 1831, and where he secured a practical common school education. Dr. Thole was a son of Gerhardt and Elizabeth Thole, and was about eleven years old when he accompanied his parents from Germany to New Orleans. in a sailing vessel, in 1842, thereafter reaching St. Louis by way of the river hoats, thence sailing up the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers to Hayana, and settling in Mason County, where the elder Thole engaged in farming for the balance of his life.

Quite early in life Herman Thole outgrew his environment on the farm in Mason County, and went to Pekin to learn the carpenter's trade. This also failed to satisfy his cravings for the higher things of life, and at the age of thirtysix years he entered the Hahnnemann Medical College, of Chicago, and after receiving his degree, practiced medicine and surgery in Highland Park for one year, then came to Dwight. He achieved success and acquired a competence, and on removing to Dwight met with an even larger measure of appreciation. November 10, 1853, Dr. Thole was united in marriage to Caroline Burger, who was born in Detroit, Mich.. June 16, 1837, a daughter of Henry and Mary (Zanely) Burger. natives of Baden, Germany. The parents of Mrs. Thole died in Dwight, and of their three children, Elizabeth is the wife of Henry Lewis, of Long Beach, and Catherine is the widow of J. Baker, of Campaign, Ill. Mr. and Mrs. Thole became the parents of the following children: Edward, a farmer in California; Frank A., engaged in the real estate business in Seattle. Wash.; May, wife of George Simmons, of Kankakee, Ill.; Nellie. wife of Harry Ball, of Valparaiso; Jennie, living with her mother; and Charles J.. of Nevada.

Dr. Thole was a member of the German Evangelical Church at Dwight, of which he was classleader, Superintendent of the Sunday School. and Trustee for many years. He was a Republi- 'an in politics, but never a seeker for office.

THOMAS, Henry M. - One of the most prominent citizens of Union Township, Livingston County, TL, as also one of its leading farmers, is Henry M. Thomas, who was born in Montgomery County, Pa., July 9, 1845. He is a son of Lewis R. and Mary Ann (Jones) Thomas, natives of the Keystone State. Lewis R. Thomas was a blacksmith by occupation. His marriage with Mary Ann Jones took place in Pennsylvania, and in 1856 he and his wife moved to Plano, Ill, and followed his trade in Kendall County until 1862. In that year he came to Union Township, Livingston County, and was engaged in farming for some years, after which he moved to Odell, 11.. and worked awhile at blacksmithing. Following this, he went to Nebraska, and after twenty-one years spent in that region, returned to Odell, dying there April 26, 1904. His wife died June 21. 1860. They had a family of nine children, of whom five are living. Both parents were members of the Presbyterian Church. Politically, Lewis R. Thomas was a Democrat.

Henry M. Thomas obtained his education in the Kendall and Livingston County district schools, and grew to maturity on his father's farm. On attaining his majority he worked by the month, and afterwards followed farming on rented land until 1892, when he bought 160 acres of land in Union Township, which he had previously rented for twenty-one years. On account of the feeble condition of his father-inlaw, Mr. Thomas lives on the latter's farm, renting his own out.

On March 29, 1877, Mr. Thomas was married to Margaret Ross, a daughter of Matthew and Nancy (Kyle) Ross, both of whom were born near Belfast, Ireland. Both parents came to the United States in 1851, later met in New York and were married at Ottawa, Ill., in 1856. Mrs. Ross died September 1, 1905. Their family consisted of six children, four of whom are liying. On arriving in this country, Mrs. Thomas' father spent the first six months in Baltimore, then removed to Livingston County, N. Y., and in the spring of 1868, came to Livingston County, Ill, buying 160 acres of land in Union Township. Politically he is a Republican, and is a member of the Congregational Church, as also was his wife. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas have had two children, namely: George H., a student in the Odell High School, and John R:

In politics, Mr. Thomas is an active and influential Democrat. He has held every township office except that of Justice of the Peace and Town Clerk, and is now serving his third term as Supervisor. Fraternally, he is identified with the I. O. O. F. He belongs to the Presbyterian Church, his wife being connected with the Congregational denomination. They maintain a very high standing in the community.

THOMPSON, John, a well known and prosperous live-stock and grain dealer of Dwight, Ill, and a very prominent man in his locality, was born in Guernsey County, Ohio, February 26, 1884, a son of Robert and Leathy (Cross) Thompson, natives of Ohio and Maryland, respectively. The maternal grandparents were of Scotch nativity, and came to this country about the beginning of the nineteenth century, settling in Maryland. Leatby Cross was taken from Maryland to Ohio by her parents at an early period, and in course of time was there married to Robert Thompson, who was a farmer by occupation. In October, 1854, they moved to Livingston County, Ill, locating in Nevada Township, on a farm of 400 acres which Robert Thompson had previously bought. On this he and his wife spent the remainder of their lives. The father took an active part in the work of draining the land during his early experience in farming, was one of the leading farmers of the county and quite prominent in local affairs. In politics. he was a strong Democrat and held the office of Supervisor for a number of years. He and his wife were members of the Presbyterian Church. Their family was composed of thirteen children, of whom five are still living.

John Thompson was brought up on the home farm, and his edudeation was obtained in the common schools of Ohio. On reaching years of maturity, he followed farming for a while on a portion of his father's land which he rented. Tn 1863 he went into the grain and live-stock business, in which he has since continued. For nine years he was associated with E. R. Stephens and Hugh Thompson in the ownership and operation of a warehouse at Dwight, Livingston County. Success has attended him in all his undertakings, and financially he is a man of substantial resources.

Mr. Thompson was married in Ohio, January 17, 1856, to Esther Boyd, who was born in that State, a daughter of William and Margaret Boyd, old settlers there. Mr. and Mrs. Thompson became the parents of seven children, as follows: Florence E.; Emma, deceased: James S.; John C.; Robert William, and two others whose names have not been furnished with the data for this sketch.

Politically, Mr. Thompson is a Democrat, and bas wielded a strong influence in the local councils of his party. For four years he held the office of Assessor of Nevada Township and served as Justice of the Peace three terms. He was elected Police Magistrate in 1902, and again in 1907, and is still the incumbent in that position; also filled the office of Township Supervisor six years. In 1876, he was the Democratic candidate for Sheriff of Livingston County, but met defeat by 146 votes. He took an active part in the organization of the I. O. O. F., but in late years has not maintained this connection. Mr. Thompson has many friends, who have long been familiar with his meritorious qualities. and regard him with cordial good will and unreserved confidence.

TOMBAUGH, Charles Reno - The cashier of the National Bank of Pontiac, is a descendant of a colonial family of Pennsylvania and is himself a native of that State, born in Washington County, October 1, 1862, his parents, Matthias and Elvira Jane (Letherman) Tombaugh, also being natives of the same county. Many years ago the family removed to Illinois and Matthias. who had served as Superintendent of the Schools of Monongahela, Pa., Odell, IN., and other places, afterward filled the office of Superintendent of Schools of Livingston County from 1875 until 1882. Besides being an educator of ability, he carried on general farming until his death, which occurred May 13, 1887, at the age of fifty-one years.

After having completed the studies of the schools of Odell, Livingston County, Charles Reno Tombaugh had the further advantage of a course of study in the Northwestern University. At the age of fifteen years he began teaching and, in time, was promoted to be Principal of the schools of Odell, where his mother yet resides. Leaving that schoolroom in 1889, he devoted his attention to agricultural pursuits until 1894, when he was elected Superintendent of Schools for Livingston County, in which capacity he rendered intelligent and satisfactory service until the fall of 1901. Since leaving the office he has been cashier of the National Bank of Pontiac. to which responsible position he brings a mind stored with knowledge, a conservative judg-

The marriage of Professor Tombaugh took place January 20, 1892, uniting him with Mrs. Anna (Deach) Bradrick, widow of Charles K. Bradrick, and daughter of Rey. Samuel Deach, a minister in the Methodist Episcopal denomination. Mr, Deach was a native of Pennsylvania and his wife, who bore the maiden name of Susan Pound, was born in New York State. By her first marriage Mrs. Tombaugh has one daughter, Margaret L., who was born in Kansas, September 21, 1888, and is a student of the Wesleyan University at Bloomington, Illinois. Of her second marriage there are four children, namely: Alice V., born January 20, 1894; Glen D., January 20, 1896; Stella M., February 7, 1898; and Reid R., June 29, 1902,

Fraternally Mr, Tombaugh early became identified with the lodge and chapter in Masonry, and never has ceased to maintain a warm interest in the order. In politics he votes the Republican ticket, and it was on that ticket he received the election as County Superintendent of Schools. For one term he has served as a member of the Board of Education of the Pontiac Township High School. Since 1904 he has been a director of the Young Men's Christian Association. From youth he has been an enthusiastic worker in the Methodist Episcopal church. For some years he has served as recording steward in the Pontiac congregation. While living at Odell he officiated as President of the Epworth League and held the same office after coming to Pontiac, besides which he has been Sundayschool Superintendent, also an active worker in the Sunday-School Association of Livingston County, being now and for some years past the President of the County Sunday-school Association. Other offices of trust and honor have come to him in connection with church work, and in every instance his ability and high principles of honor have been of valuable service to the cause.

TOWNE, Zera. - Probably none of the pioneers of Livingston County now survivíng are better able to give an intelligent account of the early history of this part of the State than Zera Towne, who at the age of seventy-eight years, is in full possession of all his faculties and is able to give off-hand data that might well puzzle a man half bis age to recall. Mr. Towne was »orne in Essex County, N. Y., in sight of the old Jrown Point Fort, July 15, 1831, a son of Silas and Ruth (Turner) Towne, and grandson of Joseph Towne, a native of Massachusetts and great-grandson of a native of New Hampshire who came of English stock. Joseph Towne took part in the Revolutionary War, and he later moved to New York where be married. about 1823. Joseph and his wife had nine children, namely: Seth, born in 1825, died about 1902; Warren, born in December, 1828, died in Texas of cancer; Zera; Alonzo, born in 1840, the year William Henry Harrison was elected President; Nora, a resident of Maryland; Sarah J., born in 1842, married Royman Dolph, and both are deceased; Henry, born in 1844, lives retired on the homestead, in New York State; Lorane, born May 18, 1846, yet resides on the old homestead; Laura, born in 1848 and is now deceased.

When Zera Towne was a lad the schools were called subscription schools, and each parent paid so much cash, pork, grain or wood, and boarded the teacher a certain portion of the time, according to the number of children sent to school. Zera had his share of such schooling and worked on the farm in the summer until he was twenty-two, when he began learning the carpenter's trade in the summer and during the winter working in a lumber camp. The logs felled were drawn on huge sleds to the Hudson River and floated down after the spring rains. He followed this kind of employment until 1856, when with an uncle, John Turner, who had gone out to Illinois in 1849, he came to Pleasant Ridge Tewnship, Livingston County, and bought land, at that time the county not having been divided into townships. He returned to New York, but soon was back in Illinois with his brother Warren and a cousin, Augustus Turner. They went to Pontiac, hoping to find some carpenter work to do, but all they had to occupy their time for some months was the erection of a small schoolhouse, which was put up on his uncle's farm. Later they were engaged to erect a house uear Fairbury for John Adkins. About this time there was much excitement over the railroad, the track of which had been graded and work of laying the rails begun, when an injunction was issued, but before it could be served the work was completed, The Towne. brothers now built the second house in Fairbury next to the present location of the Christian Science Church. With Hugh Stephenson and Edward Quigg they built the first structure in Fairbury in which liquor was sold, on the corner south of the residence of W. H. Bartlett. The first Postmaster of Fairbury was Henry Me- Kee and the first station agent J. W. Wooster from Massachusetts. The first blacksmith shop was run by Mike Gately and Mike Mason, while the first drug store was conducted by John Blackburn, John Trueman was the first harness maker in the town, while the first dry-goods store was started in 1859. Zera Towne and his brother remained in Fairbury and assisted in building the town until 1876, when they remoyed to the property of eighty acres they had purchased in Pleasant Ridge Township. They had also bought forty acres in Avoca Township. Warren Towne was drafted into the army in 1864 and served about a year, returning home

Warren remained and died, but Zera Towne returned to Illinois in 1877 and bought 147 acres of land in Pleasant Ridge Township and lived upon it until 1907, when he sold it and moved to the farm which he now occupies.

brought to Pleasant Ridge Township in 1844, She has one brother and one sister still living. George Lowlend, of South Dakota, and Susan, the widow of John Masters. Mr. and Mrs. Towne have had two sons: Lorane, born February 9, 1860, married a Miss Blake and had two children, one of whom died in infancy and the other, Hattie, now lives with her grandparents, her mother having died in December, 1899; Nathan, born August 18, 1864, married Emma Newlander and they have four children - Jessie, George, Seth and Hazel. He is a farmer on the old farm of Jack Bodley in Avoca Township. In politics, Mr. Towne is a Republican and has always supported the candidates and principles of his party. Mrs. Towne is a member of the Methodist Church and a popular and influential lady in her circle.of acquaintance.

TRAVIS, Jeremiah M. (deceased). - The late Jeremiah M. Travis was a prominent and highly respected farmer of Livingston County, and he built up for himself a lasting record as a man possessing most excellent personal traits of character. Upright and honorable in his business transactions, and imbued with that generous public spirit that made him always ready to assist in whatever was calculated to promote the welfare of his county and community, he was greatly missed when death claimed him. Mr. Travis was born in Middle Tennessee, August 24, 1823, a son of Jeremiah and Margaret (Peak) Travis, both natives of Virginia, who came to Illinois, in 1834, locating in Belle Prairie Township, as it is now known, entering 245 acres of land from the Government.

The younger Jeremiah Travis was married in 1847 to Miss Eunice Moore, who was born in 1826, and they became the parents of children as follows: Mary M., who died at the age of four years; Jonathan; died at the age of nineteen; Mary M. (2nd); Jonathan Nichols, born March 1, 1847, married Miss Eliza D. Ford, died Noyember 18, 1908, and his former wife now resides at Fairbury, being the widow of J. R. Maxwell; Mary is the widow of Mark Widowfield, and lives on a farm in Belle Prairie Township; Richard M., born January 29, 1861, died in November, 1891; Jeremiah N., born October 13, 1852, died in November, 1893; Mary M., born April 23, 1855; Joan, born in March, 1857, deceased, married Robert Widowfield, and died about April, 1883, her husband being now a resident of Russell County, Kan.; Malinda J., born December 4, 1863, married John Masterson, and died in December. 1886.

With his marriage Jeremiah M. Travis began his career as a farmer and business man under difficulties which do not come to the farmer of today. He had to drive his hogs to Chicago, the trip taking eighteen days each way, and he had to go though slush and mud almost boot deep, and at times he had to cut brush and lay down for his hogs to pass over. At night some more brush and his blankets made a good bed for this hardy old pioneer who slept soundly under the sky. When he reached his destination, the hogs were slaughtered and, after hanging twenty-four hours, were weighed and he was paid $1.50 per hundred weight. At times he drove cattle and hauled wheat and oats, selling wheat for fifty cents per bushel, peddling it about the streets to find a customer. He was always progressive and when the farmers began to use tile he established a tile factory, in 1882 operating it with great suecess, his product being in great demand. His stock was recognized to be always of high grade and found a ready market.

After losing his wife April 20, 1902, he lost interest in life and passed away peacefully October 20, 1905. Like his wife he was a consistent member of the Christian Church. In his latter days, Mr. Travis was a strong advocate of temperance and voted for Prohibition candidates ; for he had seen too many of the evils of intemperance to countenance it in any way. Commencing in very humble circumstances, Mr. Travis steadily and rapidly advanced in prosperity through his own untiring efforts, never shirking any task no matter how difficult, and he and his wife had the satisfaction of liying to see their fine family of children grown to maturity and happily settled in life, surrounded by the churches and schools which are the necessary adjuncts of refined civilization. What Illinois is today these sturdy old pioneers made it and their glorious work will never be forgotten. Year by year their number grows less, until nothing now remains of the gallant band who braved the terrors of the wilderness but the work they accomplished, the grandest monument that can be erected to anyone.

TRAVIS, Lee L., whose beautiful home and substantial barn are landmarks throughout Belle Prairie Township, and whose success in his chosen work is the result of thrift, energy and hard work, was born on the farm which is now his home, August 3, 1866, a son of Jeremiah M. and Eunice (Moore) Travis, both natives of Tennessee, who came with their parents to Livingston County and here married. Like many other farmer boys he worked on the farm in summer and attended school in winter, and did a man's work from early boyhood. When he was twenty-one he was married, March 1, 1887, to Miss Emma Hanks. born September 3, 1868, in Indian Grove Township, a daughter of George and Mary (Enoch) Hanks. Mr. and Mrs. Hanks were married in McLean County, and he died when Mrs. Travis was but three years old. in 1871. Mrs. Hanks now resides in Fairbury. Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs, Hanks: Eva, who married Edward O. Crouch of Fairbury; Lucy, widow of Frank Foreman of Fairbury; and Frank, of Lexington, Ill.

After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Travis began farming in Belle Prairie Township on a small tract which was part of the original homestead, and in 1891 they took charge of the entire farm, the father retiring. Mr. Travis continued in charge until his father's death, in 1902, when he bought the interests of the other heirs, and now owns the original home farm containing 215 acres, all of which he has placed under good cultivation. In 1902 he began etxensive improvements, erecting his present splendid barn which is amply sufficient to protect his stock. In 1905 he moved the old house west of the present site and built a beautiful residence of eight rooms, two-stories in height with all modern improvements. The house is surrounded by fine shade and ornamental trees and shrubs, and the grounds are kept up in excellent style. In 1898 ae began breeding the Ohio Improved Chester hogs, getting the stock from Ohio, and his herd is known as the Belle Prairie herd O. I. C. hogs. This herd has passed the experimental stage in this county and become one of the leading breeds. He has now at the head of the herd B. C. Livingston and Snow Ball. He was one of the first to introduce this breed into the county and is very well satisfied with the results. Mr. Travis has about forty-five head of the O. I. C. hogs, and has decided to begin breeding Hampshire-town sheep, starting with five ewes imported from England in 1906 at the age of one been one of the leading stockmen of the township for a good many years, and since 1906 has devoted himself to breeding high class stock, believing in that kind only. For forty-two years he has been identified with the gowth and development of Livingston County. The original deed of Mr. Travis' property was made on sheepskin, and the only change made was when the heirs transferred their interests to him. In all of the great changes that have taken place in the township since 1867, Mr. Travis has borne his part. For a number of years he has been a member of the School Board of District No. 123, and in politics is a Prohibitionist, taking an active part in the Temperance movement in 1908, and having been a strong advocate of the temperance cause for a long time. He and his family are consistent members of the Christian Church, of which he is a deacon. By leading an upright, honorable life, and thoroughly acting the part of a good citizen, he has won confidence and respect in the highest degree, and is a worthy representative of one of the old pioneer familis of Livingston County.

TRAVIS, William M. - Among the oldest settlers of Livingston County yet living, and one who has been very prominent in the great work of developing and improving this portion of the State, is William M. Travis, who was born within a quarter of a mile of his present home on Section 5. Belle Prairie Township, November 14, 1839. His parents were John H. and Sarah A. (Spence) Travis, natives of Tennessee and Kentucky. He was born near Cooksville, Tenn., September 17, 1815, a son of Jeremiah Travis. Sarah A. Travis was born near Richmond, Ky. John H. Travis came with his parents from Tennessee to Illinois in 1834 and entered land from the Government in Livingston County. Upon this land the primitive log cabins of the pioneer were erected and here Jeremiah Travis died, about 1868 or 1869,

John H. Travis was about seventeen at the time of the family exodus, and about three years later, August 6, 1837, he married Sarah A. Spence and settled on the edge of the timber in what is now Indian Grove Township, so called because of the settlement of Indians at this point. They were still very plentiful at this early date. The following family was born to Mr. and Mrs. John H. Travis: William H.; Louisa, married William M. Brooks a resident of Fairbury; J. J., died in Harper, Kan.; John M., born in 1846, is a resident of Fort Scott, Kan.; Elvira, married Jasper Hieronymus a farmer of Belle Prairie Township; Emma, married David Landis, a resident of Pontiac; Nathan D.. a resident of Hoopeston, Ill. John H. Travis died July 3, 1902, aged eighty-six years, nine months and three days, and his wife died January 16, 1885. They united with the Christian Church in 1866 and were always among its most active supporters. Mr. Travis settled in Livingston County three years prior to its organization, and no one suffered more than he from the hardships incident to pioneer life. The present generation knows nothing of the crude implements of those days. The words wooden moleback plow, reaphook and cradle, for cutting wheat, mean nothing to them; and yet it was with just such unwieldly tools that the founders of the Commonwealth of Illinois conquered the wilderness and brought forth the Illinois as we know it today. After the ground was cleared of the timber, plowed and harrowed in the crude fashion then prevailing, the grain sown by hand, cultivated with a hoe, and finally harvested and put into sacks, came the long task of marketing it. There were weary miles to be traveled, and when it was finally landed in a town big enough to buy it, fifty cents was the price it commanded, and this was often traded out for necessities, so that no money entered into the transaction. The pioneer mothers bore their part, too, and it was a hard one. They had absolutely no conveniences and very few of the necessaries. The big, open fire-place gave most of the light, for candles even were a luxury in those days. They cooked, washed, ironed. scrubbed and baked, spun flax and wove the cloth from which they made clothing for the men as well as the women. They carded wool from the sheep, wove it into cloth and yarn. All the stockings were knit by them in their spare moments, although to those fortunate enough to live in these days it would seem they had no spare time whatever. They tended to the milk, made butter, cheese and other dainties from cream and milk. Their skillful hands cured the meats and made the sausages. During the spring and summer they hunted for the various herbs and wild greens to furnish the table and stock the medicine chest, and yet they never were too busy to do a kindness or nurse the sick and comfort the afflicted. At births and deaths they were always to be found, cheerfully giving of themselves without thought of recompense other than that which comes from a like favor when needed or of a happy consciousness of a good deed well done. The home, crude log cabin though it might be, was always open to the traveler for as long as he cared to stay, and the best was at his service. True hospitality reigned in those days such as is not met today, and with all such a truly Christian good will that made all friends, kinfolks, especially if they came from Kentucky or Tennessee, for it was the pioneers from these two States that founded Livingston County.

In looking back over the sixty-nine years he has lived, Mr. William M. Travis can scarcely believe that so many changes haye been effected. His education was secured in the subscription schools where each family paid a certain amount for every child. When but thirteen he was put to work in a brick yard that furnished brick for fire places, and he also farmed until the war broke out, when he enlisted in Company G, Sixtyninth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, for four months. However, he was taken sick in the Chicago camp, and was unable to go on the march to Vicksburg, and was honorably discharged and returned home July 2, 1861.

On July 4, 1864, he was married to Courtney Darnell, born in Indian Grove Township, April 6, 1846, a daughter of John and Keziah (Spence) Darnell, natives of North Carolina and Kentucky, respectively. They came to Livingston County, settling in Indian Grove, where they were martied in March, 1831, and here Mrs. Travis was born. Mrs. Darnell had spun and woven the wedding garments of herself and husband. On April 23, 1865, Mr. Darnell left Ilinois and went near to Oregon City, Oregon, where he died January 20, 1894, his wife passing away August 11, 1893. They crossed the plains with mules, and reached their destination October 23, 1865, having been six months on the road. Mr. Darnell was one of those good, genial, light-hearted men who had a kind word for everyone, and who always looked on the bright side of life. He was a welcome addition to any crowd whom he could always entertain with his stories. The Darnells had the following family: J. W. who was the first white child born in Indian Grove Township, February 25, 1833, and where he died October 19, 1884, aged fifty-one; John M., enlisted in Company E, One Hundred and Twenty-ninth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and died in service March 10, 1863, at Gallatin, Tenn., and there is buried; Nathan O., born December 18, 1838, died June 21, 1898, married Nancy Moore in 1866, who still lives at Fairbury - was a man of strict integrity, filling many important positions; Nicholas H.,

After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Travis settled on a farm in Belle Prairie Township, where they resided until 1886, when they removed to their present home on Section 5, same township. For some years they renteá land, having begun their married life with no capital aside from their love for each other and their trust in the future. 'heir first purchase was a seven-acre tract, and from then on their way was clear, and they added to their possessions until they now own 250 acres of land worth $175 per acre. Their home is one of the most pleasant in the township, and they preserve that old hospitality so characteristic of their parents in the pioneer days.

The following children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Travis: Otis, born June 23, 1865, is in charge of the old farm; Charlie H., born June 19, 1868, married Hattie L. Baker and has one daughter, Ray; Minnie K., born November 2, 1872, married Charles Hargishiner, a farmer of Foosland, Champaign County, Ill.; Willie B. born July 19, 1883, on the farm at home; Lester E., born July 16, 1887, and is at home. These children have all been given an excellent education, are remarkably intelligent, and all doing well, living up to the high standards which their ancestors have established. The family of Travis has been connected with agricultural life, and it has nobly played its part in the development of the country. The family are all connected with the Christian Church. In politics Mr. Travis is a Democrat and he has filled all the offices of the township, having served as Supervisor for three years. Although loyal to his party, he is liberal and willing to let each man think for nimself.

TURNER, Guy F., is not only prominently identified with the public interests of Livingston County, but has gained for himself an enduring reputation as a physician and surgeon. He was born on a farm in Reading Township, near Reading, Ill., September 15, 1876, a son of William E. and Nellie I. (Moon) Turner. William E, Turner was educated in Knox College, and his life was spent in agricultural pursuits, although he was closely -associated with public matters. He was a stanch Republican in politics, and a great believer in the value of educational advantages, as was his wife who received her education in a ladies' institution at Jacksonille. William E. Turner died December 20, 1881, and in 1882 his widow removed with her two small sons to Wenona, Ill., where in 1883 she was married to Dr. O. J. Raub, of Cornell, IN. During the following year the family removed to Abilene, Kan.. where Dr. Raub became one of the leading dental practitioners, and where he still resides. Two children were born to the first marriage of Mrs. Raub: Guy F., and Harry A., the latter being a partner of Dr. Turner in his drug and general mercantile business, as well as Assistant Postmaster. To the union of Dr. and Mrs, Raub there have been born two children: Ward I., who died at the age of six years; and Stanley M., who lives in Abilene, Kan.

Dr. Turner received his preliminary education in the public schools and the high school of Abilene, Kan., graduating in 1894, in which year he went to Streator, Ill., and accepted a position with the City National Bank. In 1895 he entered the Hospital Medical College, of Louisville, Ky., and in 1897 went to Bellevue Hospital Medical College, graduating therefrom with honors in 1899. That year he returned to his home and passed a rigid State Board Examination receiving a high grade certificate. On August 1, 1899, he went to Dana, Ill., where he commenced the practice of his profession, but in 1901 sold out his practice and located in Chenoa, 111., where he formed a partnership with Dr. J. A. Anthony. In 1902 he went to Rutland, Il., but in the following year chose Long Point as his permanent field, and here he has since continued. He is a general practitioner and has been very successful in his treatment of many complicated cases. He gives most careful attention to his patients, sparing himself in no way when life and health are at issue. Thus Dr. Turner has won the confidence and affection of the community and he enjoys as much practice as he can handle. He is a close student and has associated himself with the various medical associations of the county and State, taking advantage of every chance to learn new methods to conquer and control disease. In 1905, in partnership with his brother Harry, the Doctor embarked in a drug and general mercantile business, and he now compounds all of his own prescriptions. On October 14, 1905, Dr. Turner was appointed Postmaster of Long Point, in 1907 was elected to the head of the Village Board, an office which he has since filled to the satisfaction of all concerned. During his term of office many impovements have been made, and he is regarded as the most progressive man in local politics. Fraternally the Doctor is a Mason, belonging to the Blue Lodge and Royal Arch Chapter, and is also connected with the Knights of Pythias, and the Modern Woodmen of America, in all of which, by reason of his sterling character and general goodfellowship, he is a universal favorite,

On October 19, 1904, Dr. Turner was married to Miss Fanny Watts, daughter of G. A. Watts, one of the leading merchants of Dana, Ill., where Mrs. Turner was born and where her family has long been socially prominent.

TURNER, James, retired farmer, merchant and hotel manager, Fairbury, Livingston County, Il. The successful career of the gentleman here mentioned illustrates the fact that, in the present period of rapid development and quick changes, a man may change his business from time to time not only without prejudice to his interest, but often with distinct gain as to his opportunities. The old saying that "the shoemaker should stick to his last," has been so many times discredited by actual experience that it is likely ere long to be forgotten. The idea of this age is that opportunity must be seen and grasped. Everywhere the old is giving place to the new. There is no absolute reason why a successful farmer should not be a successful merchant, nor any why a successful merchant should not be a successful hotel man. Mr. Turner has proved it.

(now W. Va.), August 2, 1834, a son of Robert and Nancy (Fugate) Turner. Robert Turner, a native of Leeds, England, settled in Ohio and married there. His wife, a native of Pennsylvania, had moved out iuto that State. By trade he was a woolen manufacturer. He worked for some years in a woolen mill at Steubenville, Ohio, and, in 1842, removed to Dayton, Ill. Before this, however, he had made a prospecting tour in the West, and had decided to settle at that point where he now resides, and put a woolen mill in operation which he managed successfully until his retirement from active business.

James and Nancy (Fugate) Turner had six children, three sons and three daughters. Their daughter Mary married William Loy, but is now deceased, her husband a resident of Kansas City, Mo. Their daughters, Sarah and Ann, live at Fairbury. Their son Robert lives at Fairbury, and Benjamin is deceased, as also are the parents, Mr. and Mrs. Turner.

The son James, the immediate subject of this sketch, attended public schools near his boyhood home in Virginia (now West Virginia), and in 1842 came with his parents to Dayton, LaSalle County, Ill., where he finished his schooling and began his active life under his father's instructions in the woolen mill. He was variously employed until 1869, when he came to Livingston County and, in Fayette Township, bought 320 acres of raw prairie land at ten dollars an acre. Assisted by his brothers, he made many improvements on it. In 1878 he began dealing in clothing and general furnishings, and buying and shipping stock to Fairbury. In 1882 he sold out his interests there and removed to Pana, Ill., where he re-engaged in the same kinds of business. His brothers had been connected with him in these operations. In 1886 they closed out their enterprises at Pana and dissolved their partnership, when James Turner returned to Fairbury. The period between 1886 and 1888 he spent in Kansas. Coming back to Fairbury, where he was married in December of the latter year, to Miss Kittie Woods, a daughter of Joseph and Margaret (Smith) Woods, both natives of Pennsylvania. Eventually he assumed the management of the Fairbury House, a hotel and restaurant, which he conducted until 1903, when he retired from active business, after a series of successes in which he had acquired a considerable property, including 160 acres of land in Indiana and 200 acres in Missouri.

Mr. Turner began his political career as a Whig and naturally gravitated into the Republican party. He has always taken a helpful interest in public affairs. Mrs. Turner died April 15, 1907, and is remembered as a woman of the highest character. A biographical sketch of her brother, James Woods, is given on another page.

TURNER, John Wesley, a successful farmer, and a very worthy man whose farming operations cover 240 acres of land in Esmen Township. Livingston County, Ill., was born on his father's homestead place in the same township, January

24, 1865, a son of John Wesley and Lucinda Jane (Songer) Turner, natives of Indiana, where the birth of both occurred in Fountain County. John Wesley Turner, a farmer by occupation, made the journey to Livingston County, DI, by oxteam and "prairie schooner" in 1852. His marriage took place in Indiana, and he left the State shortly after that event. At the outset he bought 160 acres of Jand in Sunbury Township, north of Mud Creek, and sold it about four years later, purchasing 200 acres of raw prairie in Esmen Township. He broke the sod, put the ground under cultivation, made all the necessary improvements, and spent the remainder of his life on the place, dying at the age of fifty-eight years his wife passing away in 1904. He was a hard worker and a well disposed man, discharging faithfully the duties of husband, father and citizen. Politically, he was identified with the Democratic party, but was not actuated by any motives of self-interest in connection with politics.

The subject of this biographical record reeeived his education in the district schools of Esmen Township, and helped his father in the farm work until he was twenty-one years old. At that age he began renting the paternal farm and has followed farming there ever since, except during three years passed on another rented place. On the death of his father he inherited a small part of the estate, and bought out the interests of other heirs, so that sixty acres of the homestead property belong to him. In the spring of 1908 he bought of his brother sixty acres, so that he now owns 120 acres, Besides this, he rents other land, making 260 acres, in all, under his management. He keeps a good grade of horses and has prospered in all his undertakings.

On June 3, 1888, at the bride's home in Esmen Township, Mr. Turner was married to Isabel Rhodes, who was born in Troy, N. Y., May 22, 1867, and came to Illinois in 1879. Her father, John Rhodes, died when she was quite young. From the union of Mr. and Mrs, Turner have sprung six children, as follows: Zella, born November 30, 1889; John, born May 16, 189 - ; Delford, born August 20, 1896; Sylvia, born August 28, 1897; Elmer, born October 13, 1894; and Bertus, born March 22, 1901.

In politics, Mr. Turner is classed as a Democrat, but takes a somewhat independent course in local elections, and has never entertained any desire for public office. Fraternally, he is affiliated with the Modern Woodmen of America.

UNZIEEKER, Joseph, for fifty years a well known and successful farmer in the western portion of Livingston County, Ill.. and. now a resident of the village of Flanagan, same county, where he is now living in comfortable retirement, was born in the State of Ohio, on October 30, 1838. His father, Jacob Henry Unzieeker, a farmer by occupation, was born in Bavaria, Germany, and his mother, Barbara (Stalter) Unzieeker, in Alsace, Germany, (then French ter- ritory). In 1855 the parents emigrated to the United States, locating in Butler County, Ohio, whence in 1845 they came to Illinois, and there spent their last days, the father dying in 1846 and the mother surviving him until 1889. The youthful years of Joseph Unzieeker were passed on the parental farm, and he received a common-school ducation in the district schools of Illinois. Since reaching manhood he has always followed farming. In March, 1865, he bought 160 acres of land in Pike Township, Livingston County, which he still owns, and is also the owner of 150 acres in Rook's Creek Township, in the same county. as well as four lots in the village of Flanagan, where he took up his residence in 1905.

On February 22, 1866, Mr. Unzieeker was joined in the bonds of matrimony with Barbara Streid, who was born in Ohio, a daughter of Joseph and Francisca Streid, natives of Germany. To this union eight children were born, their names being as follows: Elizabeth, Katharina, Benn, Francisca, Joseph, Henrietta, Noah and Minnie. Benn and Noah are engaged in farming; Elizabeth is the widow of William Ewing; Joseph is in charge of the grain elevator at Graymont, Ill.; and Minnie is living at home. Katharina, Francisca and Henrietta are deceased. Benn lives in Blaine County, Okla.

The political connection of Joseph Unzieeker is with the Democratic party, and he and the members of his family are communicants of the Mennonite Church.

VAHLDIECK, William, owner of a fine farm of 200 acres in Esmen Township, Livingston County, Ill., and known in his locality as a very energetic and thorough farmer, was born in Peru, LaSalle County, Ill., May 29, 1856, a son of Christopher and Louisa (Briezenmeister) Vahldieck, both natives of Germany, the father born in the city of Berlin, in 1828, and the mother, in the Province of Hanover, in 1827. Christopher Vahldieck, who was a farmer, after finishing his education in the public schools of the fatherland, served ten years in the regular army there, and enjoyed the life of a soldier. In 1850 he was married, and soon afterwards came to the United States, locating in LaSalle County, I1., where he first kept a place of public refreshment, and later, worked as a farm hand. In 1865 he began farming on rented land, and in the following year, bought eighty acres in Livingston County, to which, in course of time, he added eighty acres more. Towards the end of his life he withdrew from active work, but continued on the farm until his death, in 1890. His wife died in 1900. Their family consisted of three sons and five daughters. Of these, one son died in infancy, and one of the daughters was killed by a railroad train, near Peru, La- Salle County. Besides William, those living are as follows: Edward, whose home is in Emmet County, Iowa; Lizzie (Mrs. Nolan); Ida (Mrs. Wisman), and Emma (Mrs. Sackett), all

William Vahldieck, who was the second child in order of birth, received his education in the district schools, and while still a boy, learned the butcher's trade. When twenty-two years of age he began farming on rented land in Sunbury Township, continuing thus until his father's death, in 1890. In the year 1886 he bought forty acres of land in Esmen Township, and in 1890, eighty acres more. On this farm he has built a convenient and comfortable home, greatly improving the property in other respects. In 1905 he purchased another tract of eighty acres, making 200 acres in all. $

Mr. Vahldieck was married, December 9, 1880, at Sunbury, Ill., to Katie Ryan, born in New York State, May 1, 1864. Mrs. Vahldieck was a daughter of James and Lizzie (Cleary) Ryan, natives of Ireland. Her father was a miner by occupation, and a veteran of the Civil War. Five children blessed this union, namely: Rosa E., born November 5, 1881, who married Fred Klein, a farmer; Bertram E., born November 19, 1882, who was a student at the Dixon (1.) Business College for one year; Grover E., born June 5, 1885, and now living in Dwight, Ill.: Oscar C., born January 23, 1887; and Victor V., born November 26, 1893. The mother of this family, a woman of most estimable traits of character, and a faithful and devoted wife and affectionate mother, passed away, deeply lamented, February 12, 1907.

Politically, Mr. Vahldieck is a strong Democrat, and has served the public as School Director and as Pathmaster. In fraternal circles he is identified with the M. W. A.

VAIL, Frank M. - Agriculture is a liberal profession, embracing a knowledge of earth and the products that grow out of it, and a philosophy of economics which comprehend the necessities of demand and supply by which these products are kept moving over the face of the earth. Facilities of transportation have done much to "bridge over gaps between the urban and rural communities and make them one. Frank M. Vail. residing on Section 32, Indiana Grove Township, Livingston County, is one of the up-to-date farmers of this locality, being born on the section where he now resides, March 29, 1858, a son of John D. Vail and Antoinette B. (Fowler) Vail, both natives of Albany, N. Y., and descended from English and Puritan stock. The Vail family originated in America with the emigration of three brothers from England to the Colonies. They settled in New York, and from there their name spread throughout the country. John D. and Antoinette Vail were married in New York and about 1839 came to Livingston County, settling on the line between Sections 30 and 82, where John D. established a general store, having to haul his stock from Ottawa. The location of this place was just west of the home of Frank M. Vail. on property secured from the Government. John Vail became one of the leading men of the county, and one of the largest landowners, possessing at one time 962 acres of choice land. For many years he was an extensive feeeder and shipper of cattle and hogs, and was a lover of fine horses and owned a good stable. As he understood the handling of stock, his shipments brought the highest prices. Far in advance of his times he advocated many of the views now held by farmers and stockmen of today, and was ever ready to lend his advice and assistance to others. Mr. Vail was born March 18, 1816, while his wife, born June 20, 1817, died March 29, 1858. On April 5, 1859, he married Harriet N. McNulty, who was born in Ohio, May 20, 1830, and died in Chicago, March 18, 1905. Mr. Vail died November 17, 1904.