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

To the youth of the rising generation who are as yet not established in life, the career of Mr. White offers emphatic and significant encouragement. We know no man to whom that much abused term, self-made, is more applicable, for educationally and otherwise he is the product of his own industry. Born in Odell, Livingston County, July 19, 1873, he is a son of John Warren and Mary Eliza (Hinman) White, the former born in LaSalle, Ill., March 16, 1831, and the latter in New Haven, Conn., September 26, 1839. The establisher of the White family in America was an Jrishman, while the progenitor of the Hinman family came from England sometime during the seventeenth century. Both John W. and Mary Eliza White attended the Farm Ridge Seminary of LaSalle County, and prior to their marriage engaged in school teaching for several years. They came to Livingston County about 1857, and until their retirement and removal to Pontiac in 1900, engaged in general farming and stock-raising on a large scale. The mother died July 22, 1906, after twenty hours of illness, and the father still makes his home in Pontiac.

At the age of eleven years Frederick G. White began herding cattle for a living, and subsequently worked on farms by the month, exercising in the meantime the greatest economy possible that he might secure a higher education. He thus was enabled to supplement his country school education with a course at Onarga Seminary and the Normal University, and he also gave out much that he had acquired while teaching school in Livingston County from his twentyfirst to his twenty-third year. He has always been interested in educational work, and at the present time is President of the Pontiac Township High School. After leaving the Normal University, he came to Pontiac and studied law under Christopher C. Strawn, being admitted to practice at the bar of Illinois, December 6, 1898. Since that time he has practiced law in Pontiac, and since January 1, 1904, was in partnership with L. W. Tuesburg. The qualities which lift men to high places in law assuredly are possessed in generous measure by Mr. White, and have been generously appreciated by the people among whom his lot is fortunately cast. Added to these requisites are general business capacity and far-sightedness, also the gift of accumulation, so that he has become one of the wealthy as well as influential professional men of the county. He is interested in the LaCrosse Land Company, of LaCrosse, Ind., which is accomplishing the redemption of 20,000 acres of swamp lands, and he is a large stock-holder in the Automatic Home Telephone Company, of which he has been President since its organization; is also a stock-holder in the Short Line Fuel Company, of Fayette County, Pa., and attorney for the same, and represents various other concerns in a legal capacity.

Politics, the natural accompaniment of law, has profoundly interested Mr. White ever since he was old enough to form political opinions. He is uncompromisingly Republican in his preferences, and his zeal and knowledge of the public needs have elevated him to many positions of trust and responsibility. He has served as Assessor, City Clerk, Deputy Circuit Clerk, the latter for twenty-two months, Public Administrator for one term, County and Probate Judge, and member of the Republican County Central Committee for four years. He is keenly appreciative of the moral and general benefits derivable from fraternal associations, and is a lows, Masons, Knights of Pythias, and is one of the most prominent Modern Woodmen in Illinois. His manipulation of real-estate advantages places him among the large tax-payers and agricultural promoters of the State, and thus is immeasurably augmented the direct and fundamental usefulness of his many sided life. His reputation as a lawyer has been won by honest and earnest labor, and he belongs to that class of professional men who long have been regarded as having important bearings upon the progress and prosperity of communities, and who conserve the public welfare by furthering the ends of justice and maintaining individual rights.

WILLIAMSON, Hugh, for nearly twenty-eight years a well-known and highly respected farmer of Round Grove Township, Livingston County, Ill., was born in Huntingdon County, Pa., March 16, 1850, a son of Robert B. and Margaret (Mc- Alevy) Williamson, natives of Pennsylvania, the father born in Jefferson County, that State, in

1823. The paternal grandfather, Hugh Williamson, and his wife, whose maiden name was Barr, were from the north of Wales. They came to this country and located in Pennsylvania, where they spent their closing years, grandfather Williamson dying in 1832, On the maternal side the grandparents were Allen and Letitia (Huston) MeAlevy, natives of Pennsylvania, where both died. Allen .McAlevy was a prominent farmer. William McAlevy, his father, was a General in the War of 1812, and the town, - McAlevy's Fort, Huntingdon County, - was named in his honor as he was one of the first settlers in that neighborhcod, while the Indians were still there, and there all the Williamson family lived. Robert B. Williamson followed tarming in Pennsylvania during his whole life. He served in the Union army during the latter part of the Civil War, but saw little heavy fighting. In politics, he was a Republican, but sought no public oflice. He and his wife were members of the United Presbyterian church. Both died in 1897. Besides the subject of this sketch, they were the parents of four sons and five daughters, as follows: Mary, deceased; James A., a farmer in Russell County, Kan.; Letitia A., who lives in Pennsylvania; Robert R., who follows farming in Russell County, Kan.; Margaret R., who lives with her brother, Hugh; John M., who died in Dwight, Ill., when twenty-four years old; Samuel, a farmer in Pennsylvania; Elizabeth, whose home is in New Jersey; and Nancy, deceased.

Hugh Willaimson, the second child in order of birth, was educated in the district schools of Pennsylvania, near McAlevy's Fort. He helped his father on the farm until 1865, and then hired out by the month, being thus employed for several years. On November 8, 1871, he located in Gardner, Grundy County, Ill., and then, for two years rented a farm from his uncle, Alexander Somerville. Following this, he again worked one year by the month. as a farm hand, returning the next year to Pennsylvania, and entering there upon the marriage relation. He took a five-year lease of a farm belonging to his wife's uncle, but becoming dissatisfied, the lease was annulled, and, in the fall of 1875, he came back to Grundy County, Ill.' and rented a farm, later moving to another rented farm east of Gardner, where he remained a year. At the end of that period he rented a farm in Round Grove Township, Livingston County, and in 1889, bought eighty acres of land in Dwight Township on which he still lives and which he is constantly improving. He has given much attention to raising good horses of the Percheron and French Draft breeds. In 1906, he purchased 160 acres of land in Kingsbury County, S. Dak.

The marriage of My. Williamson took place at MeAlevy's Fort, Pa., March 7, 1875, Sarah M. Hutchinson then becoming his wife. . Mrs. Williamson was born at that place May 16, 1856, a daughter of John and Elizabeth (Yocum) Hutchinson, who spent their whole lives there. Mr, and Mrs. Williamson became the parents of three children, namely: Carrie Eva, who married Sidney Brownsey, a farmer. Emma J., wife of John Persnick who follows farming in Round Grove Township; and John Elmer, a farmer in Grundy County, married Anna' Jones. of Gardner, Grundy County, TI. Mr. and Mrs. Sidney Brownsey have four children - two sons and two daughters viz.; Gladys Gundolia, Robert Clyde, Bernice Lucile and Ralph Williamson; Mr. and Mrs. John Persnick have two children: George Arden and Robert John; and Mr. and Mrs. John Elmer Williamson have one daughter, Tola Annstine,

Politically, Mr. Williamson is a Republican, and has served the public eleven years as School Director, and twelve years as School Trustee. In fraternal circles, he is identified with the Molern Woodmen of America.

WILSON, Edgar S., Mayor of the city of Fairbury, Il., was born in Taylor County, Va. (now W. Va.), October 3, 1836, the son of Abraham and Rebecca (Mouser) Wilson, his father being a farmer and blacksmith by occupation who spent his entire life in that county, engaged principally in farming and stockraising. Early members of the Wilson family on the paternal side were of Scotch blood and were followers during the fourteenth century of the noted patriot, Sir William Wallace, in the effort to maintain: the independence of the Scottish nation, and some of their descendants, still adhering to the principles of their ancestors, came to America at some period previous to the Declaration of Independence and Revolutionary War, and the name of Wilson has been one of the most honored in American history. Mr. Wilson's grandfather on the maternal side, Jacob Mouser, served as a soldier in the war of 1812, from the State of Pennsylvania, holding the position of captain, while his father, Abraham Wilson, was called out at the close of the second war with Great Britain, the war closing before he was sworn in.

Edgar S. Wilson grew up on the farm in his native county of Virginia (W. Va.), where he received his early education in the common schools. later taking a course in the Grafton (Va.) Seminary. His childhood and youth were spent under the influence of a Christian home, and at the age of twenty-two years he was licensed as a minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he had become a member at an early period. For some twenty-four years, he remained in connection with the Virginia M. E. Conference, during three years of that period serving as pastor of the church in which he had been reared, when, in 1882, he was transferred from the West Virginia Conference to Illinois, later serving successively as pastor, for three years each, at Fairbury, Dwight and Streator, then for four years at Canton, Ill., and for one year at Aledo, when he returned to Fairbury, where he spent the next five years as pastor of the first church with which he was associated after coming to Illinois. At the end of this period, after being engaged in ministerial work for over forty years, he was superannuated, when he went with his family to California, and there spent the next six months, when he returned to Fairbury where he has since continuously resided. Besides remaining a member of the local Methodist church at Fairbury, Mr. Wilson retains his membership in the Central Illinois Conference, in which he has long been an influential factor.

Mr. Wilson is a Republican in politics and a zealous advocate of local option for the control of the liquor traffic. In the spring of 1907 he was elected Mayor of the city of Fairbury on the anti-license ticket, and in the discharge of the duties of his office has given satisfaction to all parties, even including those who opposed him. During his residence in Fairbury he has accomplished much for the improvement of that city, having erected many new houses and improved others. -He has been a member of the Masonic Fraternity since 1858, now being Chaplain of Fairbury Lodge.

On March 16, 1862, Mr. Wilson was united in marriage, in Kingwood, Preston County (now W. Va.), with Sue K. Schaeffer, who was born and reared in that place, 2 daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Isreal Schaeffer, and an acknowledged belle of that locality. Of this marriage there have been one son and three daughters, namely: Elvie O., who died at Canton, Ill., in 1883; Frank May, now Mrs. J. W. McDowell; Icie M., now Mrs. Harry Beers; and Anna R., living with her parents in Fairbury.

Mr. Wilson's active service of forty years in connection with church work and his later identification with business and local affairs in the city of Fairbury, give evidence of his character in Christian and public life, and attest the confidence of a large body of his fellow citizens,

WINSLOW, James C., who is widely and favorably known in Avoca Township as an industrious young farmer and progressive citizen, is pleasantly located on Section 13, where he is pursuing the peaceful occupation of farming upon his property which he has brought into a high state of cultivation. He was horn on the farm he now occupies March 13, 1865, and he is a representative of one of the pioneer families of Livingston County. . His parents were Thomas and Catherine (Clark) Winslow. Thomas Winslow was born in County East Meath, Ireland, February 14, 1831, and came to America in 1851, settling in New York, and becoming an engineer at Utica Insane Asylum. Later he became the engineer in a saw-mill at Williamsport, Pa., and then returned to Utica, N. Y. Charles, Jobn and George Winslow also came to America but none emigrated to the West. Charles and John are deceased, and George is probably living. All left families.

Catherine Clark was also a native of Ireland and came from the same county as her husband. Left an orphan, she made her way to America and met Mr. Winslow in Utica, where they were married in 1855, Soon after their marriage they came to Livingston County, and he went to work by the month for $13, while his wife also worked in a family who had come from Ireland. They tbriftily saved their earnings and bought forty acres of land in Avoca Township, on which they built a small frame house in 1856. They took possession of their new home with bright hopes. The doors were made of walnut Mr. Winslow himself had cut, In that humble home, all of their children were born, and they remained in it until James C. was two years of age. At that time a Mr. Edmund Norman died. He had been building a commodious home on the farm now occupied by James, and Mr. Winslow purchased the property, completed the residence and the family moved into it in 1867. The price paid for the original forty acres was $500, but that amount would not purchase three acres of it at the present time. Mr. Winslow added to his farm until, at the time of his death, he owned 719 acres of fine farming land. He was one of the most generous and genial men Livingston County has ever known, and he is remembered for his many excellent traits of character and extreme kindness of heart. Hardworking himself, he never affected to overlook the distress of others, but gave liberally first and asked questions afterwards. Churches, schoolhouses, all public enterprises benefited by his liberality, and he made welcome all who came to his home. There are too few such men, and when he died in 1904 the county lost one of its best citizens. His wife had passed away in 1893, but prior to her demise they had lived retired in their beautiful home in Fairbury to which they went in 1893. Six children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Winslow: Mary, who married V. I. Aaron, a resldent of Chicago; Ann, who married George Mc- Guire, a farmer at Five Mile Grove, Livingston County; Jane, who married Charles Hanley of Fairbury; and John and James, both of Avoca Township. They are all consistent members of the Catholic Church, as were their parents. Mr. Winslow was a stanch Democrat and filled many township offices, being a man of unblemished character and personal probity. James ©. Winslow has been reared and educated in Avoca Township and is very loyal to it. ` After remaining upon the homestead with his parents until his father's retirement, he then went to work by the day and month, but in 1895 rented land and started farming for himself, Three years later he took charge of the homestead, and he now owns 160 acres of it, and has one of the best farms in the Township. He has been very successful in his efforts and has the farm well stocked with cattle, horses and hogs. On June 21, 1894, he married Miss Minnie A. Wilson, born in Avoca Township, a daughter of John Wilson, an old pioneer of Livingston County, but now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Winslow have had children as follows: Mary, who died at the age of two years and seven months, when she was so bright and dear; John, who died at the age of fourteen months; Mary, who was given the name of her little sister, whose death had cast a gloom over the family ; Frances, born in 1901. Mr. Winslow has inherited many of his father's wise traits and characteristics, and makes friends everywhere. He is a good farmer, a kind neighbor and public-spirited citizen. In politics he is a Democrat and is active in party matters.

WITTENAUER, John, a retired farmer of sterling character and most creditable antecedents, who through a long life of industry and thrift has amassed a snug competency and is now enjoying a well-earned period of leisure in his comfortable home at Pontiac, Ill., was born in Baden, Germany, in 1837. His father, Antony Wittenauer, was a native of Germany, as was also his mother, whose maiden name was Schlosser. By trade, Antony Wittenauer was a stone-mason. The mother died when her son John was an infant, and the father married again, he and his second wife dying in Germany. All were members of the Catholic Church. By each of his wives Antony Wittenauer had four children, and of these eight, four are deceased. In early boyhood John Wittenauer attended school in his fatherland, and, in 1847, was brought by friends to the United States, landing in New York City, where he had an uncle who was expecting his arrival. There he also went to school, and after staying four years in New York and New Jersey, he came to Illinois, growing up to manhood in Bloomington, and remaining there about twenty-five years. In 1876 he moved to Livingston County and bought a farm of 160 acres near Graymont. There he lived until the fall of 1899, when he established his residence in Pontiac, purchasing a house on Walnut Street. This he remodeled and enlarged, and has since occupied in comfort and contentment.

On December 25, 1861, Mr. Wittenauer was united in marriage with Elizabeth Springer, who was born in McLean County, Ill., where her parents were among the earliest settlers. Four children resulted from this union, namely: Charles, who now manages his father's farm; Rose, who is married and lives near Estherville, Iowa; William, who lives in Stuttgart, Ark.; and Aaron, whose home is in Whiteside County, Il, in the vicinity of Deer Grove. In 1906, while Mrs. Wittenauer was driving out in company with a friend, the horse, becoming frightened, ran away, and the excitement attending the affair caused her death, she being afflicted with an ailment of the heart. She was a consistent and earnest member of the Baptist Church.

In politics, Mr. Wittenauer has always been a supporter of the Republican party, and while a resident of Rooks Creek Township, held the office of School Director. He has always maintained an unblemished reputation as a farmer and as a citizen, having faithfully discharged his duties in all the relations of life. He enjoys the respect and good will of all who know him,

WOODROW, John Wilson. - The genealogy of the Woodrow family is traced to Virginian ancestry. From the Old Dominion Joseph Woodrow removed to Ohio, being led to make a change of residence by reason of his relatives having moved there previously. There had come to him by inheritance a large typical Virginian plantation, with many slaves. Believing slavery to be a national evil, he gave his slaves their freedom and settled in Ohio. in order that he might be away from the depressing effects of that system. While in Virginia he had met and married An- toinette Wilson, a sister of Gen. James Wilson, one or the signers of the Declaration of Independence, whose portrait huug in Memorial Hall, Philadelphia, He was presented with a sword by Gen. George Washington at the time he crossed the Delaware.

Their son, John Wilson was born December 27, 1824, after they had established their home at Hillsboro, Ohio. The father died shortly after and the boy remained with his mother until he was seven years of age, when he was taken into the home of an uncle, Charles Wilson, of Maysville. Ky., and under the care of that relalive was sent to school and given the best advantages for education that the locality afforded tor the young. At the age of nineteen years he went to make his home with a sister, Mrs. Campbell, of Mount Vernon, Ohio, and shortly afterward secured employment as a bookkeeper in a large iron foundry. This occupation was too confining to be healthful, and the young man soon was obliged to resign his position. In search of health he took several trips on boats, notably a voyage down the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers to New Orleans. Next he tried life in the wilderness, going to Kenosha, Wis., and living in the woods, his chief sustenance being the wild game abouuding in the forests. On regaining his health he again sought business activities. Going to Morris, Ill.. he secured employment in an abstract office and later entered the oflice of the County Clerk. During 1875 he resigned his position and removed to Webster City, lowa, where he opened a land office, but returned the following year to Illinois.

Settling at Pontiac in 1876, Mr. Woodrow entered an abstract office and three years later opened a land office. This business he conducted until his death, which occurred December 17, 1906. In early life he had been reared among Quakers and always felt in sympathy with the doctrines of that sect, but was reared a Methodist. Politically a Democrat, he served as Justice of the Peace at Pontiac for twenty years, was twelve years Deputy County Clerk and four years County Clerk of Grundy County, Il. Surviving him are his daughters. Ella Margaret and Ida Wilson; also his devoted and faithful wife, whom he married October 25, 1861, and who bore the maiden name of Peoria Underwood. Born in Peoria County, Ill., December 8, 1846, a daughter of Samuel F. and Margaret (Putman) Underwood. Samuel Underwood married a daughter of President John Quincy Adams, and Mrs. Underwood's father was a son by this marriage. Samuel M. and Margaret Underwood were natives respectively of Salem, Mass., and the Mohawk Valley, N. Y. The paternal grandparents. Samuel and Mary Underwood, were natives of England and he served in the war of 1812. The maternal grandparents were Fisher and Margaret (Ellis) Putman, the former having been proprietor of a harness-making and saddler's shop at Tribe's Hill, N. Y., where for more than fifty years he served as postmaster.

F, Underwood remained in York State, where he conducted a carriage- manufacturing and mercantile business at Troy, Canandaigua and Fultonville. A fire that almost destroyed the city of Troy wiped out the profits of years of labor, and caused him to move further west with the hope of retrieving his fortunes. His first location was at Michigan City, Mich., where he secured employment as overseer on a canal. A year later he proceeded to Chicago and a brief sojourn there was followed by removal to Lockport, where he had a position on the Illinois and Michigan Canal for two years. Next he began to tow two boats (one a 'passenger, the other a freight) from LaSalle to St. Louis. Meanwhile, during the winter months he ran a steamer between St. Louis and New Orleans. His next venture took him to Peoria, where he built one tow boat, one freight boat and one passenger boat. At the time of his death, which occurred May 10, 1852, he enjoyed a reputation as one of the best pilots on the Illinois River. During the period of his residence at Henry, Marshall County, Ill., he has been instrumental in the upbuilding of that town and gave liberally to all enterprises of value to its permanent welfare, The Young Ladies' Seminary, one and one-half miles from town, received from him large donations in land and money, and he was also a liberal contributor to the Northern Illinois Institute at Henry. A man of fine mental powers and keen intelligence, he won friends in every circle of society and in every walk of life, and there were many mourned when the news came of his death in middle age. Some time after he died his widow became the wife of Uriah B. Couch, who was born at Saratoga. N. Y., and for years carried - on a grist-mill at Morris, Grundy County, UL, removing from that place to Benton, where his wife died at the age of fifty-two years. Later he came to Pontiac and for three years made his home with Mrs. Woodrow. Going next to Kansas, he died at Smith Center, in that State.

WOODS, James, music dealer and Alderman for the First Ward, Fairbury, Ill, though by no means an old man, has lived so long in this part of Illinois that he may well be called a pioneer. and has so many interesting reminiscences that he could, if he would, write a graphic and gripping history of the locality. He was born in Brownsville, Fayette County, Pa., December 8, 1856, and, as will be seen, was at least the second James Woods in his family. His parents were Joseph and Magaret (Smith) Woods. His father was born in Westmoreland County, Pa.. December 19, 1818, his mother in Fayette County, that State, February 13, 1830. Joseph Woods was a son of James Woods, a native of County Tyrone, Ireland, who emigrated to Pennsylvania at the age of twelve years, the family settling in Westmoreland County, Pa.. where he married Catherine Cavin. Eventually James Woods moved to Fayette County, Pa., and there he and his wife lived out their days.

Joseph Woods was about twelve years old. He grew to manhood in Fayette County and married there in 1858, and lived on a farm that had been for years the home of his father. In 1860 he came west to Illinois and located near Indian Grove, Livingston County. In 1862 he returned to Fayette County, Pa., selling his property and going back by rail to his old home. There he remained until 1870 when, selling out his property in Pennsylvania for the second time, he returned to Livingston County, settling near Fairbury, where he farmed until 1884. In that year he became the proprietor of the Central Hotel, the best house of entertainment in Fairbury, and some years later established the Woods House. Joseph Woods was known as a thorough going Democrat, but he cared little for public honors and inclined to a quiet home life. He had in an eminent degree the faculty of making friends and when he had once attached them to him he retained them. He came to the county when it was in a wild and uncultivated condition and honestly did his part as a pioneer. He died January 10, 1896. There were born to him eight children, four of whom were sons. One of his daughters died in infancy. His daughter Kittie, who married James Turner, now a retired farmer living at Fairbury, died April 15, 1907. Annie is the wife of Morgan McCormick of Manson, Calhoun County. Iowa, and has borne him two children, named Roy and Thoia. Boyd, now of Hartford City, Blackford County, Ind., married Alice Davis and has a son named Ross. Joseph C. is a resident of Los Angeles, Cal. Lizzie married George Kerr of Fairbury. John W. is the proprietor and manager of the Klondike Hotel at Fairbury. James is the immediate subject of this notice. The mother of these children, the widow of Joseph Woods, died April 21, 1906. She was a woman of many good qualities and, during all her active life, was a helpful member of the Baptist church,

James Woods was four years old when his parents came out the first time from Pennsylvania to Livingston County. He well remembers the long overland trip which consumed thirty days. He remembers still more vividly the return journey of the family to Pennsylvania in 1862, when he was six years old. He came back with them to Livingston County in 1870 and attended the district school in what was then known as the Fry School District. During his early years he assisted his father in farming and teaming. In 1883 he went west to Missouri, Kansas, Indian Territory and the Panhandle of Texas. He was employed for six years continuously at handling cattle on a cow ranch, In July, 1890, he returned to Fairbury, where he was 'in the hotel and restaurant business until 1905, when he embarked in the music trade,

Mr. Woods married Miss Luty B. Harris, October 30, 1892. Mrs. Woods was born in Fairbury, January 5, 1874, a daughter of John A. and Belle Harris, natives of Moundsville, W. Va. Her father, though of Southern birth, was at the time of the Civil War loyal to the old flag and served four years in the Federal army, participating actively in the dangers and hardships of the battle-field and of long and arduous marches. After the war he located at Fairbury, where he lived out the rest of his allotted years, bis widow surviving him. Mrs. Woods, a typical southern lady and a woman of the highest character, died May 12, 1898, deeply regretted by all who had known her, leaving two children - Bernard, born October 3, 1893, and who died August 24, 1898, and Lily Belle, born August 11, 1895,

It is not possible for Mr. Woods ever to forget the pioneer days in Livingston County. He says that when his father came first to Illinois the country round about Fairbury was literally in the Wild West. There were no roads but Indian trails, and the Indians had scarcely disappeared from forest and plain, Deer, prairie chickens and other edible game were plentiful. Wolves made the night hideous, often coming right up to the cabin door in search of food. The soil was low, level and black, and much of it was a good deal of the time under water. Everywhere there were wild geese, brants and ducks. Rattlesnakes were so numerous that every one, old or young, carried a club as a means of defense against them. Settlers threading the trails were ever on the watch for them, ever listening for their warning rattle, ever alert to escape their deadly sting. Mr. Woods so well remembers the rattle of the snakes that now he almost flinches at the mere thought of them. Hidden in the tall grass, they were visible only when they chanced to cross the trail, just ahead of the pioneer. He is fond of recounting the hardships and pleasures of the early days and marvels at the many great changes that have since taken place. He has vivid recollections of many labors and experiences of that time. The settlers depended on their guns and their fishing rods very largely for such meat as was consumed in their cabins, and young Woods often searched the prairie for prairie hens' eggs for home consumption. He often speaks of the great storm of June 27, 1861, recalling how the wind moved his father's house eighteen inches and overturned the partially finished house of George Thomas, which caught fire and was saved only with the greatest difficulty; and how the baby of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Willhour, which had been left alone in their cabin, was carried through the air about a quarter of a mile in its cradle and eventually found unhurt. Hail fell to a depth of four inches on the level. A forty acre patch of wheat was beaten into the ground. Corn replanted, July 4, yielded sixty to seventy bushels to the acre.

In his various agricultural and business enterprises, Mr. Woods has been successful. He has been identified with the interests of Livingston County for nearly forty years. He is a member of the order of Yeomen, of the Hagles and of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. In politics he is a Democrat.

WOODS, John W., proprietor of Hotel Klondike, Fairbury, Ill., and formerly a member of the board of alderman of that city. Though restricted as to environments and at a disadvantage because of the inferior voting strength of his party in his town, the young man whose name heads this sketch has demonstrated qualities for leadership that are noteworthy, and it is greatly to his credit that every fight that he has made - and he has made several strenuous ones - has been made, not for his personal advancement, but for the benefit of Fairbury and its citizens. His honesty of purpose is beyond question and his personal and social qualities are of the winning kind. Enthusiastie in maintaining the righteousness of any position that he takes, he is strong and ready in argument and has the gift of extemporaneous speaking - a gift that he has frequently used in behalf of interests important in his community.

a son of Joseph Woods and his wife, who was Margaret Smith. Joseph Woods, a native of Westmoreland County, Pa., was born in December 19, 1818, and Margaret (Smith) Woods was born in Fayette County, Pa., February 13, 1830. Considerable early history of the family of Woods is given in a biographical sketch of James Woods, which has a place in an adjoining portion of this volume. Joseph Woods died January 10, 1896, his wife April 21, 1906. They had four sons and four daughters, Annie is Mrs. Morgan McCormick, of Manson, Calhoun County, Iowa. Boyd married Alice Davis and lives at Hartford City, Ind. Joseph C. lives at Los Angeles, Cal. Kittie. who was Mrs. James Turner of Fairbury, died April 15, 1907. Another daughter died in infancy. Lizzie is Mrs, George Kerr of Fairbury. James is a music dealer at Fairbury. John W. is the immediate subject of this sketch.

John W. Woods, who may be said to have made a life business of hotel and restaurant management, first saw the light of day in the Central Hotel at Fairbury, while it was under his father's management. When he was four years old, his family removed to a farm in the vicinity of the old Fry School, near Indian Grove. There he attended school and helped about the work of the farm by turns. In 1889 he accepted a position in the hotel at Fairbury. In 1890 he entered the public school at Fairbury, from which he was graduated with the class of 1896, under Professor Richardson, in his last year doing the eleventh and twelfth grade work in one year. July 27. 1897, he formed a partnership with James Turner in the restaurant business, which he has successfully conducted for three years and three months, when he sold his interest, the concern passing to the ownership of Brown & Kring. January 26, 1901, he entered the restaurant business independently. opening a fine establishment on West Locust Street, which he conducted successfully until May 14, 1907. then selling it. September 17. following, he bought the Klondike Building at Fourth and Locust Streets, in which

In 1904 the License party in Fairbury, looking for a candidate to lead it to victory in an aldermanic contest from the Third Ward, chose Mr. Woods as its leader. Although the ward was a close ward, he was elected by a flattering majority and, for two years, waged a hard fight for what he considered the rights and interests of the people. At the expiration of his term he declined a reelection. In 1906 he was the nominee of the Democratic party for the office of Sheriff of Livingston County, against a man put forth by the Republicans who had for four years satisfactorily filled the office of Chief Deputy Sheriff. Though failing of election, Mr. Woods cut the majority of his opponent very appreciably. Had it been possible to elect any Democrat to the office he would undoubtedly haye been elected by a flattering majority. The general public have come to rely on him as a man of invincible integrity, and it is probable that, sometime, when party lines are not so closely drawn as they were in the year mentioned, he will be called to some position of honor and responsibility. He is eminently friendly and sympathetic, and it is doubtful if he could turn away any man in need. There is probably not a voter in the county who would refuse to support him on purely personal grounds. It will not be soon forgotten how, as the youngest Alderman ever elected in Central Illinois. he fought so gallantly for his idea of honesty and justice. He is an Odd Fellow, a Mason and a member of the order of Eagles.

WORTH, William A., well known as the efficient manager of the Farmers' Elevator at Ocoya, Livingston County, Ill., was born in Esmen Township, in the same county, on March 27, 1870, a son of John E. and Julia T. (Chapin) Worth, the former a native of England, and the latter, of Long Island, N. Y. The father was born in 1847, and, in 1855, was brought to the United States by his parents who proceeded directly to Illinois. settling in Livingston County. Julia T. Chapin also accompanied her father and mother to the same locality at an early period. John E. Worth followed farming in Esmen Township, where he formerly owned 200 acres of land. This he sold, moving to Oklahoma, and there owns 240 acres, besides property in Oklahoma City, which has been his place of residence since he withdrew from active pursuits. William A. Worth was reared on the home farm, and in boyhood utilized the advantages of the common schools. In 1894 he became manager of the Middle Division Elevator Company, at Cayuga, Ill., and in 1901 went to Oklahoma. where he was engaged for two years in farming and merchandising. In 1903 he went into the lumber business at Odell, and in the following year located in Ocoya. assuming the management of the Farmers' Elevator, in which position he has displayed notable capability and diligence.

In political action, Mr, Worth is a Republican. He and Mrs. Worth are members of the Baptist church. Both have many friends, and are highly esteemed. Mr. Worth is a member of Pontiac Lodge No. 26, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and of the Yeoman Lodge of Odell, Ill.

WORTHLEY, Daniel, a veteran of the Civil War, and for twenty-seven years a diligent and thrifty farmer in the vicinity of Odell, Livingston County, Ill., but now living in comfortable retirement in Pontiac, same county, was born in Clinton County, N. Y., July 9. 1840 a son of Samuel and Lydia (Craig) Worthley natives of New Hampshire. The paternal grandparents were Daniel and Irene Worthley, both born in the Green Mountain State whose home was afterwards in New York, where their last years were spent. Irene Worthley lived to be nearly 101 years old.

Robert and Sally (Mitchell) Craig, grandparents on the maternal side, were married in Bridgewater, N. H., whence they Clinton County, N. Y., both dying there. Grandfather Craig was a farmer by occupation, Samuel Worthley. the father of Daniel, also followed farming for a livelihood. His marriage with Lydia Craig took place in New York State, and there he died March 3, 1847. His widow married a second time, and moved to Odell, Ill., where she departed this life October 10, 1895. They were the parents of four children, of whom two are still living.

Daniel Worthley received his education in the common schools and the Plattsburg (N. Y.) Academy. He was reared on his father's place, and, after reaching maturity, bought a small farm in New York, on which he lived several years. In 1864 he moved to Livingston County Il. purchasing a farm of eighty acres near Odell, This he sold in 1900, and became a resident of Pontiac, building a house at No. 515 North Oak Street, where he has since lived in contented retirement, enjoying the well-earned fruits of his long and arduous toil. On September 23, 1861, he enlisted in Company H, 44th Regiment, New York Volunteer Infantry, a short time afterwards being discharged on account of disability. Coming to Illinois he was drafted September 28, 1864, being assigned to Company H, Eleventh Illinois Volunteer Infantry, organized in LaSalle County. With this regiment he was mustered out by general order after ten months service. He was present at the capture of Spanish Fort and Fort Blakely.

On May 5. 1862, Mr. Worthley was married to Anna D. Thorne, who was borne in Clinton County, N. Y., a daughter of Henry and Nancy (Dustin) Thorne, natives of that State and county. This union resulted in two children, namely: Minnie Gertrude. wife of Charles H. Hoke, Ex-Sheriff of Livingston County, and Jennie Dora, deceased.

In politics, Mr. Worthley is a Prohibitionist, and on the ticket of that party, was elected Alderman of the Second Ward, serving two years. He and his worthy wife are consistent- members of the Presbyterian church. Both are held in high esteem wherever known. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic,

WORTHLEY, Wallace F., a very intelligent and enterprising representative of the younger element among the farmers of Livingston County, Ill., was born in Odell Township, that county, January 6, 1874, a son of Robert and Waity (Reynolds) Worthley, both natives of Plattsburg, N. Y., where his father was born in 1837, and his mother, in 1839. In New York State, Robert Worthley followed farming, and also worked in a saw mill. He was married at the time of the Civil War, and shortly afterwards came to Livingston County, Ill., buying eighty acres of land in Odell Township. To this he afterwards added another 80-acre tract, and he and his wife are still living on the place. They had: five children, three of whom were boys. Politically, Robert Worthley is a strong Republican, and has served as a member of the Board of School Directors, being clerk of that body. He and his excellent wife are members of the Methodist Church. Wallace F. Worthley, the fourth-born of the family, received his education in the Odell public schools and the Pontiac Township High School and, after finishing his studies, taught school for several terms, assisting his father in the farm work during the summer season. In 1895 he began farming on land rented from the latter, continuing this until 1900. Then he bought 120 acres in North Odell Township, with the intention of conducting a stock farm. On this property he has built a substantial and convenient house and a good barn. All the buildings on the place are new, being the result of his indutsry and enterprise. A special feature in his farming operations is the breeding of Belgian horses, to which he deyotes considerable attention. Aside from agricultural undertakings, he finds time to act in the caapcity of secretary of the West Side Odell Mutual Telephone Company.

On December 25, 1895, in Odell, Ill., Mr. Worthley was united in marriage with Nettie Tombaugh, a daughter of Matthias and Elvira Tombaugh, born in Odell Township, Livingston County, January 2, 1875. Her father, who is deceased. was the owner of 500 acres of land in Odell Township. He was a prominent citizen, and served for several years as County Superintendent of Public Instruction. Mr. and Mrs. Wallace F. Worthley are the parents of two children: Lawrence, born February 25, 1897; and Alice, born January 26, 1901.

Politically, Mr. Worthley is an earnest supporter of the Republican party, and is serving as a member of the Odell School Board. . In fraternal circles, he is identified with the A. F. & A. M.. and the Court of Honor. His religious connection is with the Methedist Church, in which he has officiated as Superintendent of the

Sunday School. and has held the position of President of the Epworth League. Throughout ¡his township, Wallace F. Worthley is recognized as a success:ul farmer and a userul member of the community.

WRIGHT, Fred, general business man, Fairbury, Livingston County, Ill. Probably there is no name more widely known among Masons of Central Illinois than that of Mr. Wright. It is certain that no man in Fairbury has more warm personal friends, or is more unselfishly devoted to the growth and prosperity of that little city. None is better or more tavorably known in business circles, and none has more ably earned the title of man of affairs, He has proven himself equally competent and successful in various lines, and would win popular support for any enterprise in which he might engage.

Fred Wright was born in Fairbury, December 21, 1864, a son of James L. and Annie (Webb) Wright, His father was born in Indiana and, when a child, was taken to Troy, Ohio. He was a son of John Wright, who was of Pennsylvania- German blood and married an English woman. James L. Wright married in Ohio about 1860 and came to Fairbury, where he worked at his trade as u carpenter during the summer months and taught district schools in the winter. He was an excellent mechanic and an able and popular teacher, his services always being in demand in one capacity or the other. In 1902 he returned to Troy, Ohio, where he lived in retirement from active business until his death in April, 1908. To James L. and Annie (Webb) Wright a son and a daughter were born. The latter, whose Christian name is Effie F., is the wife of A. L. Hayes, an insurance and Joan agent, in Chicago, and has two children, Mazie and Oma. Mazie is Mrs. Clarence Cardy. Mrs. Wright early became a member of the Methodist church, with which she is still identified.

Educated in the Fairbury public schools and at the Illinois Wesleyan University, Bloomington, Ill., Fred Wright began his active life as a clerk in a restaurant in Fairbury. In 1883, when he was nineteen years old, he bought a bakery which he managed successfully about a year. This he sold in 1884 and established a billiard hall and tobacco store with new fixtures and a complete stock, which he conducted profitably twelve years. In 1896, as a member of the firm of Wright & Waybreit, he opened a general store at Campus. In 1899 he disposed of his interest in this concern and, returning to Fairbury, bought back the billiard hall which he had established and which he has operated to the present time. Always interested in the growth and development of Fairbury, he has steadily contributed to its advancement. He has no ambition for public office, but has served his fellow-townsmen as a member of the Board of Review. He is especially well informed concerning current events throughout the country, and has an alert apprehension of their political significance. He views all political issues from the standpoint of a

Republican. Reference has already been made to his high standing as a Mason, and he is also an Odd Fellow. While not holding membership in any church, Mr, and Mrs. Wright have been liberally helpful to churches wherever they have lived. Mrs, Wright is a member of the Order of the Eastern Star.

Mr. Wright married Miss Marie Hankins, October 12, 1891. She was born at Chatsworth, Il., March 3, 1866, a daughter of Henry Hankins. Her mother dying when she was a child, she found a home with Mrs. Frank Franzen, the wife of her mother's brother, Her father died in 1902. Mr. and Mrs. Wright have two children - Avis E., born December 16, 1894, and James Fred, born December 1, 1903.

WRIGHT, Vinton Spencer. - For more than twenty years Vinton S. Wright has been identified with the growth and development of one of Dwight's important industries. When he came to this city with his young wife in 1884, he was favorably impressed by the opportunities afforded to energy and perseverance, and since then has had no reason to regret the decision which made him a permanent resident of this progressive place. During the autumn of 1885 he assisted his. mother's brother, Julius A. Spencer, in establishing a hay-press factory for the manufacture of an invention which the uncle had patented. From that period the business experienced a steady growth, and now, under the management of Mr. Wright, and under the firm title of the J. A. Spencer Hay-Press Manufacturing Company, it ranks among the leading concerns of its kind in Illinois. Improved devices have been adopted from time to time, so that the press now represents the highest degree of efficiency and speed possible in the work for which it was constructed. Besides the press, the firm manufactures a steel-plate ventilating fan, also carries on the lines of work common to machine-shop, foundry and planing-mill.

The Wright family comes of Eastern lineage. Vinton Spencer Wright was born at Fulton, Oswego County, N. Y., January 29, 1862, being a grandson of Luther G. and Mary P. (Platt) Wright, and a great-grandson of Daniel Wright and John Blittenburg. The home of Luther G. Wright was in Oneida County, N. Y., and among his children was Daniel E., who followed the trade of a carpenter and builder in New York State, Pennsylvania, Canada and Florida, eventually, about 1895, becoming a resident of Dwight, Ill., which continues to be his home. During early manhood he married Sarah A., daughter of Milton Spencer, of Herkimer County, N. Y. Four daughters and three sons came to bless their union, one of the daughters dying at the age of two years. Fourth in the order of birth of these children was Vinton Spencer Wright, who attended the common schools and seminary of his native town, and after leaving school

The marriage of Mr. Wright was solemnized December 6, 1883, uniting him with Rosamond Alice Safford, who was born in Onondaga County, N. Y., December 6, 1863, a daughter of Henry Johnson and Mary (Saxton) Safford, natives of Connecticut. Julius Milton Wright, their eldest son, born June 3, 1885, was for three years a student in the University of Illinois. The eldest daughter, Clara Rosamond, was born May 25, 1887. The second daughter, Mary Eleanor, born January 11, 1889, has received excellent advantages in the University of Illinois. The other children are as follows: Vinton Safford, born May 18, 1891; Allen Gates, born August 29, 1893; and Louisa Althea, born June 18, 1899.

In addition to his long identification with the hay-press industry, Mr. Wright has had other business interests. For three years he owned one-half interest in a jewelry store, but at the expiration of that period he sold his interest to his partner, W. D. Roeder. During March of 1892 he opened the Dwight Artesian laundry, and in the following New Year admitted into partnership B. M. Chubb, who has continued with him in the business up to the present time. Realizing the necessity for adequate fire protection for the city, Mr. Wright aided in organizing and equipping a Volunteer Fire Department, and for two years served as its Chief. The part which he took in building up a fire company will not soon be forgotten. The work was as laborious as it was unremunerative, but devotion to the welfare of the city conquered personal feeling, and it was his gratification to see eventually a well-equipped department established and sustained. The school work, too, received his encouraging and sympathetic assistance, and for six years he was a member of the Board of Education. Politically, he always has given his support to Republican principles. Barly in life, he identified himself with the Congregational denomination, and since then has been a local leader in that church, acting at various times as Sunday-school teacher, secretary, superintendent and treasurer, also as a member of the board of trustees of the congregation. The lofty principles of brotherhood and philanthropy, as enunciated by Masonry, have appealed to him and have led him into the activities of the order, in which we find him associated with the Blue Lodge and Eastern Star at Dwight, the Chapter at Wilmington, Chicago Council No. 4, Blaney Commandery "No. 5, K. T., at Morris, the Chicago Consistory and the Medinah Temple, N. M. S., of Chicago.

WUBBENS, Peter, a retired farmer residing in the village of Flanagan, Ill., who in the course of thirty-five years of patient and persevering toil, has gathered together a goodly store of this world's possessions, and is now enjoying the fruits of his labors in quiet contentment surrounded by all the comforts resulting from a life usefully and profitably spent, was born in

Prussia, Germany, on September 28, 1836, a son of Bernard and Hilka (Goldhorn) Wubbens, natives of the same country, where the birth of the father took place in 1805, and that of the mother in 1808. Bernard Wubbens, a carpenter by trade, came after the death of his wife to the Jnited States in 1880, making his home in Livingston County, IN., where he spent his last days. Peter Wubbens attended the public schools of the fatherland in early youth, and followed the occupation of a laborer while he remained there. On coming to this country, he first located in Freeport, Stephenson County, 11l., arriving there in 1865 and continuing until 1871. In the last mentioned year he moved to Livingston County, and bought forty acres of land in Nebraska Township, gradually adding to his landed property until he became the owner of 240 acres. In this locality he was successfully engaged in general farming and raising stock, up to the period of his withdrawal from agricultural pursuits, in 1906, when be built a fine residence in Flanagan, which he has since occupied.

On March 1, 1872. Mr. Wubbens was joined in the bonds of matrimony with Margaret Eilts, a, daughter of Edward and Katharina (Manson) Eilts. From this union have sprung seven children, those living as follows: Anna W. (Mrs. George Kalkwarf) ; Edward, married Ida Bowman; Hilda, wife of Ralph Hinkel; John, married Mary Koopman, and Margaret. Burt and Katy are deceased. Katharine Heinrichs is a granddaughter and resides with Mr. Wubbens.

Politically, Mr. Wubbens has always taken his stand on the side of the Republican party, and in religious belief, he and his family are Lutherans. All who know them are their friends, and entertain towards them feelings of cordial good will.

YOUNG, Francis L., for many years a successful farmer in Rooks Creek Township, Livingston County, Ill., and a reliable and useful member of the community, was born in Preble County, Ohio. December 20, 1845, a son of Herman and Sarah (Clingenpeel) Young, natives of Virginia, who moved to that county at an early period, removing thence in 1849 to Peoria County, Ill., and locating in Pontiac Township, Livingston County, in 1852. Herman Young settled on 820 acres of land which he had purchased, buying considerably more which he gaye to his children. All of his property was accumulated by his own arduous toil and wise management. Politically, he was an adherent of the Democratie party, and in religious belief he and his wife were Universalists, They had seven sons, of whom the subject of this sketch is the only one living. 'The father died in Pontiac Township in 1872, and the mother passed away at land in the last named Township. having distributed a portion of his landed possessions among his children. On the home place he is engaged in general farming and raising stock, and all his undertakings have been attended by good results.

On November 18, 1866, Mr. Young was married to Emma Rittenhouse, born in Warren, Huntington County, Ind., a daughter of William and Martha Jane (Gill) Rittenhouse, early settlers of that County, who came to Warren County from Virginia, the founders of the family in America being natives of Germany. Both William and Martha Rittenhouse died on the home place in Warren County. Mr. and Mrs. Young have had children as follows: Hiram, who married Sarah Wertz of Livingston County - they reside in Rantoul, Kan., and have two daughters; Sarah, is a professional nurse at present at Plano, Ill.; William J., married Dolly Lauderbach of St. Louis, Mo.. and they reside in Rushville, Adrian County, Mo.; Nora Belle, married William Brinkman, and they reside in Pike Township, Livingston County, and have one daughter; Harvey, married Ella Uphoff of Woodford County, 11l.; Harry, married Myrtle Miller of Pontiac, and they reside in that city, having one son, Mabel Pearl, married Edward Kippfer, and they reside south of Pontiac; Marion Francis, married Ella Scott of Pontiac, they reside in Graymount, Ill.; and Ella Loraine, deceased.

In politics, Mr. Young acts with the Democratic party, entertaining, however, no desire for public office. His religious views are of a liberal character. Fraternally he is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America. In the fall of 1908 he bought a residence in Graymont, Ill., where he is now living retired.

ZINN, Julian W., M. D., a well known and successful physician of Flanagan, Ill., where he has a fine practice and enjoys the confidence and esteem of the community, was born in Kentucky, July 30, 1862, a son of Newton J. and Elizabeth (Dunlap) Zinn, natives of that State, where they always lived, dying in Grant County. Joseph Zinn, the paternal grandfather, was a soldier in the War of 1812.

Julian W. Zinn was reared on a farm, and received his education mainly in the Williams (Ky.) High School, afterward reading medicine with his uncle, Dr. W. J. Zinn, at Sherman, Ky., and also attending school at Louisville, Ky., then entering the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Surgery, from which he was graduated in 1888. He located in Bloomington, Ill., in 1888, and began the practice of his profession, removing in a few months to Graymont, Ill., where he remained thirteen years, and going thence to Joliet, whence he removed to Flanagan, August 12, 1902. Dr. Zinn is a specialist in lung diseases, and has acquired a large practice. He was connected with the examining staff of the United States Pension Commissioner, under the second Cleveland administration, and that of President McKinley.

Dr. Zinn was married April 10, 1890, to Anna R. Jordan, a native of Will County, IIL, and a daughter of Truman W. and Mattie (Dewey) Jordan. Two children are the offspring of this union, namely: Donald F. and Doris E. In the matter of politics, Dr. Zinn maintains an independent attitude, and in regard to religion entertains liberal views. Fraternally, he is affiliated with Pontiac Lodge No. 294, A, F. & A. M., and Streator Lodge, No. 591, B P. O. E.

ZOLLINGER, William W., who is now serving his first term as Supervisor of Sullivan Township. Livingston County, Ill., and is recognized as one of the leading farmers and citizens of his township, was born in Strasburg, Pa., June 30, 1853, a son of George K. and Mary J. (Brittan) Zollinger, natives of Pennsylvania, where the paternal grandparents, Frederick and Margaret (Shay) Zollinger, were also born, the grandfather on the maternal side, William Brittan, being a native of Ireland. William Zollinger received his education in the Strasburg (Pa.) High School, and moved to Illinois in 1875, locating in Livingston County and working as farm hand for six years. In 1880 he changed his location to Ford County. Ill., where he followed farming thirteen years. Then returning at the end of this period to Livingston County, he purchased his present farm of 200 acres, where his operations have been very successful.

Mr, Zollinger was married February 27, 1880, to Mary Martin, born in Princeton, Bureau County. Ill., where her education was obtained in the public schools. Two sons are the offspring of this union, George W. and Lee W., respectively aged twenty-six and twenty-four years.

Politically, Mr. Zollinger is a Republican, and is now serving his first term as Supervisor. In fraternal circles he is identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Cullom Lodge, No. 666. His religious connection is with the Methodist church, meunwhile attending the public schools of his native place, he engaged in the express business for about three years, after which he was employed for the same length of time as clerk in the grocery store of E. J. Davis & Co., at Chenoa, when he entered into the livery business at Fairbury, Livingston County, with which he has since been connected continuously to the present time.

In 1903 Mr. Codlin was elected Constable for Indian Grove Township, in which he is now serving his second term; has also served two terms as Deputy Sheriff of Livingston County, and in the spring of 1897, was chosen Alderman of the city of Fairbury on the Business Men's ticket. A Republican in politics, he has always adhered faithfuly to the principles of that party, and has labored to advance its interests in cou- nection with public affairs. In 1901 he was appointed by President McKinley to the position of Rural Free Delivery Mail Carrier for the Fairbury District, and has served in that capacity for the past seven years.

On June 25, 1896, Mr. Codlin was united in marriage, at Fairbury, Ill., with Lillian Wilson, of Piper City, Il., and they have had the following named children born to them: Wilmer J., Dorothy R., Howard and Joseph Lec.

Mr. Codlin is identified with the following fraternal organizations in Fairbury: Fairbury Lodge No. 290. Independent order of Odd Fellows, Modern Woodmen of America, American Court of Honor, No. 206; and Yeomen of America. In his business and official life he has established a substantial reputation for success, and has won respect as a self-made man.