Livingston County, Illinois - Chapter with an unread heading (no. 25 of those read), 1909 (part 2 of 17)

On the 8th of April, 1908, Mr. and Mrs. Beach celebrated the fifty-sixth anniversary of their marriage. Mrs. Beach was born in Hamilton County, Ohio, July 9, 1828. She has borne her husband four children, who are here mentioned in the order of their birth: Sarah, born January 29, 1853, died aged fourteen; Chloe, born March 28, 1854, died when twenty-one years old; another child died in infancy; Ella, born February 8, 1862. was married May 16, 1883, to Dr. G. C. Lewis, a prominent practicing physician of Fairbury. The children of Dr. and Mrs. Lewis are: Thomas Beach, born November 12, 1884, graduated in law at the University of Illinois in 1908; Mamie Beach, born December 9, 1886, graduated at Washington College, Washington, D. C., in 1906; and Alma Eloise, born November 12, 1899.

BEAMAN, Benjamin. - The early life of Benjamin Beaman was spent on a farm near the quaint old town of Bath, Wiltshire, England, where he was born June 8, 1824, and where he attended the public schools, later on campleting his education in a boarding academy in Marshalltown, the same shire. His parents were Benjamin and Jane (Lewis) Beaman. also born in England, and the father, after conducting a tannery in his native land for some years, came to New York about 1840, and on the present site of Central Park established a manufactory for white leather, succeeding thereat beyond his most-ambitious expectations. In 1842 he sent to England for the rest of his family, and in 1856 sold his tannery and came to Amity Township, Livingston County, where he bought a few acres of land near Cornell, and lived in comparative retirement the balance of his life.

Under his father Benjamin Beaman acquired a thorough knowledge of the tanner's trade, and eventually conducted a tannery of his own in New York City. In September, 1852, he married in New York City, Margarette Reither, who was born in Hesse Darmstadt, Germany. This marriage resulted in four children, of whom three are living: Benjamin, born June 4, 1853, lives with his widowed mother on the home place; Mary, born January 17, 1855, lives in Streator, Ill.; Matilda, born July 17, 1861, is the widow of Henry Jones and lives in Mercer, Maine. Mrs. Beaman died June 8, 1862, and November 23, 1862, he married Sophia Schwachheim. a native of Hesse, Prussia, Germany, and born August 24, 1832, a daughter of Ernest and Magdalene (Beuerman) Schwachheim. Mrs. Beaman came to New York June 15, 1855, and until her marriage worked in a hotel. In 1866 Mr. and Mrs. Bea- man came to the present site of Cornell, which was then an unsettled prairie, and Mr. Beaman bought 80 acres of land in Section 14, and commenced to conduct general farming and stockraising. To his original purchase he added until he owned 160 acres in Section 14, and a similar amount in Sections 10 and 15, and his operations were increased in proportion. At the time of his death, May 18, 1897, he was in prosperous circumstances, and the recipient of the honor and confidence of the community, which for so long had profited by his interest and co-operation. He was the friend of education and general advancement, and was generous in his support of charitable and social enterprises. By his second marriage Mr. Beaman had children as follows: Louis, born September 7, 1863, married Esther Ann Earp, of Pontiac, they reside in Amity Township and have three children - Charles W., Clarence L. and Mabel - living; Edward, born June 4, 1868, lives in Amity Township, married Sophia Gmelich of Amity Township, and they have had five children, three living - Elmer, William and Mildred; and Jane, born January 2, 1872, married August Schneider of Streator, Ill., and they have two children - Islay and Ernest.

BEAMAN. Louis R. - It was the privilege of Benjamin Beaman, father of Louis R., to establish his family in Livingston County the year following the Civil War, and thus to profit by the reconstruction period which meant so much to the future of this well favored part of Illinois. He was well fitted for the responsibilities which crowded around hini, and though by no means one of the very large landholders or farmers, he labored with that faith in himself and others, with that conscientiousness in the performance of little things, which won for him a permanent place in the history of Amity Township. Benjamin Beaman was born in England in 1824, a son of John Renjamin and Jane (Lewis) Beaman, also natives of that country. He immigrated to the United States when seventeen years old, and there married Sophia Schwachheim, daughter of Henry Schwachheim. She had come from Germany several years earlier. For a time Mr. Beaman conducted an express business in New York City, and in the spring of 1866 came to Amity Township, where he bought eighty acres of land half a mile east of Cornell, the place having on it a small house and stable, and about twenty acres being cleared of timber and underbrush. He improved and modernized the place, added to it eighty-nine acres adjoining, and until his death, in May, 1897, was successful as a stock-raiser and farmer. His wife, who was born in 1832, still makes her home in Cornell, to which she remoyed after the death of her husband. She was his second wife, to whom he was married in November. 1862, Besides Louis R., who is her oldest child, she has a son, Edward W., living on the home farm in Amity Townshipand a daughter, Jane M., wife of August Schneider, of Streator, Ill. Of Mr. Beaman's two marriages there were seven children, of whom the following are living: Benjamin P.; Mary Jane, of Streator, Ill.; and Matilda, of Maine, wife of Henry Jones. The first Mrs. Beaman, in maidenhood Margaret Reither, to whom he was married in August, 1852, died in 1861.

The youth of Louis R. Beaman was uneventtully passed on his father's farm, and he took naturally to the occupation followed since time immemorial by his forefathers on both sides ot the family. A common school education, supplemented by the research of later years, has proved sufficient for all his needs, and he is among the well intormed and progressive men of his community. Neither his occupation nor field of activity were changed by bis marriage, February 23, 1888, to Esther Ann Earp, who was born in Amity Township, May 23, 1868, a daughter of William and Amanda (Bacon) Earp, the former born in Pennsylvania and the latter in Ohio. They were pioneer settlers of Amity Township, where they located at a very early date, Mrs. Beaman's grandparents being among the earliest settlers of the County. The paternal grandparents of Mrs. Beaman were Charles and Esther (Morlage) Earp, natives of England, and her maternal grandparents were Socrates and Ann (Earp) Bacon. Mr. Beaman rented land from his father in Section 15, Amity Township, until the latter's death, when he came into possession of twenty-six and one-half acres, tu which he added fifty-one adjoining acres purchased some time previous. At the present time he and his wife own 206 acres, forty acres.of which are in Section 9. He is engaged in general farming and stock-raising, and his stock includes as fine sheep, horses, cattle and hogs as are produced in this part of the State. Mr. and Mrs. Beaman are the parents of three children: Charles W., born January 22, 1890; Clarence L., born November 11, 1891; and Mabel L., born November 14, 1894. >

In addition to his other interests Mr. Beaman is a heavy stockholder in the Cornell Telephone Company, in which he holds the office of director. In political matters he is a Republican. but is not prejudiced and votes for the candidate whom he considers best fitted to protect the interests of the people. Mrs. Beaman is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, where Mr. Beaman also attends divine worship.

BEARDSLEY, Oscar S., an intelligent, thorough and prosperous farmer of Esmen Township, Livingston County, Ill., was born in Cortland County, N. Y., April 30, 1848, and belongs to an old family of English origin, the name of which, with slight variations, can be traced back to a descendant of one of the generals or first chiefs of William the Conqueror - Lord Bardsea, of the Island of the Welsh bards. William Beardsley, the progenitor of the family in America, was born in England in 1605. Celestus Beardsley. the father of Oscar S., was a son of Belah Beardsley, the latter born in Connecticut in 1793, the son (Celestus) being a native of New York, born in Chenango County, while the birth of the mother of Oscar S., Amanda (Palmer) Beardsley, occurred in the State of Rhode Island. By occupation, Celestus Beardsley was a farmer. At an early period he removed from Chenango to Cortland County, N. Y., where his marriage with Amanda Palmer took place. They came to Illinois in 1866, locating on a farm of torty acres in Section 27, Esmen Township, Livingston County. Here the father made all the requisite improvements, and on this farm, now increased to eighty acres in extent, he and his worthy wife still make their home. He is in his eighty-fourth year, and she is nearly eightytwo years old. In political opinions, the father was originally a Whig, and since the dissolution of that organization has always voted with the Republican party. For a considerable period he held the office of Justice of the Peace.

Oscar S. Beardsley was brought up on the home farm, and received his education mainly in the Chautauqua County (N. Y.) common schools, taking a short course of study in a New York academy. After his removal to Illinois he was engaged for twelve years in teaching school during the winter and farming during the summer seasons. In recent years he has taken charge of the farming interests of his father, besides operating 100 acres of his own. His farm lies across the road from his father's place and, besides general farming, since 1904, has devoted much attention to breeding Poland-China hogs. He also conducts a dairy business, keeping about twenty cows.

On November 1, 1875, Mr. Beardsley was united in matrimony with Alice Palmer, who was born in New York State. Previous to her marriage her father had been dead many years; her mother Angeline (Palmer) Palmer, passed away in 1903. Seven children have blessed the union of Mr. and Mrs. Beardsley, as follows: Louisa; Mabel, wife of Edward T. Bentley, has three children - Althea, Glenn and Leslie; Frank, of Oklahoma; Ralph; Della, who married Louis A. East, and has two children - Harold and Helén; Alfred; and Clarence. Louisa, Mabel, Della and Alfred received their education in the Pontiac High School.

BEGGS, David V., proprietor of livery, sale and feed barns, Fairbury, Livingston County, Ill. The son of a rich man who enters business life with other people's capital or the money left him by his father often congratulates himself, when he retires from active life, on the fact that he has held his own. How much more cause for congratulation has the self-made man who began poor. as he turns over in his mind the fact that he has not simply held, but has made his own. Livingston County contains many self-made men, but it is not probable that it has a citizen who has more fairly won, or more honestly deserves, the advancement he has achieved, than the prominent citizen of Fairbury whose name is the title of this all too brief personal notice.

David V. Beggs was born on a farm near Strawn, Fayette Township, Livingston County, August 15, 1867, and has the distinction of having been the second white child born in the county. His parents were Robert and Elizabeth (McMullen) Beggs, of French descent, born and reared in Canada. Robert Beggs was the first of his family in Illinois, and Miss McMullen came to the State with her parents. They were married in La Salle County and not long afterward removed to Livingston County. Mr. Beggs rented a farm near Strawn where they lived until 1890, when they moved into the village of Strawn, whence, in 1892, they came to Fairbury, where Mr. Beggs died April 28, 1907. He was a quiet man who was usually to be found at home with his family, and he and his household were devoted and consistent Methodists. While he lived near Strawn, he ably and honorably filled various township offices. In politics his affiliations were Democratic. For many years a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, he practically exemplified the principles of that beneficent order in his daily life. His widow is living at Fairbury.

The immediate subject of this sketch was born and reared on his father's farm and received his early education in the district schools near his home. It should be added that he has always been a devoted student and, by systematic reading and obseryation, has quite thoroughly educated himself, While most boys would haye been amusing themselves, he was making a practical study of agriculture, and loving horses he naturally gave close attention to stock-raising. At the early age of fifteen he was given charge of his father's farm, of which he was the manager until his father removed to Strawn. That was In 1890. Then the young man bought a livery and feed farni in the village mentioned, and managed it with signal success until 1892, when he sold it to remove to Fairbury, where he bought out the Beamer Marsh Livery Stable, on East Main Street. Beginning business in Fairbury with six horses, he continued at the old stand until September 1, 1906, when he had twelve horses. He then bought the livery barn and stock of Mrs. Virgin, and at this time he has twenty-one livery horses and two hearse horses, fine carriages for funeral purposes, twenty-one single buggies, seven closed carriages, a pall-bearers' wagon, an expensive hearse and three spring wagons for hack service, besides four cutters and a bob-sled for use in the winter season. Among his stock are several good saddle horses, and he has a fine saddle. All in all, his stock and equipments are, for livery purposes, inferior to none in this part of the State. It should be added that he invariably sends careful drivers with his teams. His barn, one of the largest in Central Illinois, will accommodate 350 head of horses. He makes a specialty of buying and selling stock for market, acting as buyer for Harper Brothers of East Saint Louis, one of the largest concerns of its kind in this country. An idea of the extent of his operations will be afforded by the statement that, in 1907, he bought two hundred and forty-seven head of mules for the firm just mentioned. His business education has been acquired in the school of practical experience, and he is considered an expert judge of horses and mules. He buys wherever and whenever a good purchase is possible, always paying the highest market price. He has been very successful in his chosen field, and, by tact and good management no less than by his friendliness and square dealing, he has come to be regarded as a leading stock-buyer in his vicinity.

Mr. Beggs married, at Pontiac, Ill., October 28, 1896, Miss Rose H. Huber, who was born near that city, a daughter of George Huber, a pioneer and prominent citizen of that section, who has been dead for some years, Mrs. Beggs is of German descent. She was educated at Pontiac and was for five years prominent as a teacher of schools in the country round that city. Her mother is still living at Pontiac. Mr. and Mrs. Beggs have a son, Robert Ronald Beggs, who was born at Fairbury, September 28, 1899.

Mr. and Mrs. Beggs are members of the Fairbury organization of the order of Yeomen, and Mr. Beggs is a charter member of the Strawn Lodge of Knights of Pythias. Politically he is a Republican, but he is not in polities for personal preferment. His interest in Fairbury is such that he is found ever ready to do anything in his power to promote its material prosperity or its attractiveness as a place of residence. Mrs. Beggs is a member of the Roman Catholic Church, and he is liberal in its support and in that of other religious bodies. In all things he is broadminded and patriotic, having in view the greatest good of the greatest number. His own experience in life has given him sympathy with every man who is struggling earnestly and bravely for worthy advancement.

BELLER, Andrew, a worthy and comfortably circumstanced farmer, of Pike Township, Livingston County, Ill., now retired from his accustomed labors, was born at St. Dieu, France, on May 5, 1848. He is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Sheric) Beller, natives of France, where the father was born in 1800, and the mother in 1812. Both parents spent their entire lives in their native country, where Jacob Beller pursued the occupation of a farmer. Andrew Beller grew to manhood on his father's farm, and received his education in the public schools of France. In 1872 he came to the United States and, going to Chenoa, Ill., bought SO acres of land in McLean County. near that village. Selling this five years later, he purchased the 160-acre farm in Pike Township, Livingston County, where he has since lived. He has increased his landed possessions until he now has 300 acres. Here he carried on general farming until the time of his withdrawal from active exertions. During all this time, his reputation has been that of a careful, diligent and thriving farmer, and an upright and useful citizen.

Mr. Beller was joined in matrimony on March 1, 1878, in McLean County, Ill., with Elizabeth Becker, a daughter of Peter and Elizabeth (Somers) Becker, natives of France. Both are deceased. Of this union there has been one son, John Beller, who is in active charge of his father's farm. In political matters, Mr. Beller gives his support to the Republican party. He and his wife are members of the Mennonite Church.

BENNETT, George H., a progressive business man and enterprising farmer on Section 17, Belle Prairie Township, Livingston County, who has brought his fine farm into a high state of cultivation and deyeloped a beautiful home, was born on Section 36, Avoca Township, November 19, 1857, a son of John Bennett. The latter was born in Cape May County, N. J., February 5, 1821, where his parents James and Deborah (Goff) Bennett were also born. His paternal ancestors were native of Ireland, while his mother was descended from Welsh stock, represented by many descendants in New England. When John Bennett was a boy of fourteen, in 1835, with his father and step-mother, he started west and first located in Tippecanoe County, Ind. His mother had died when the son was only four years old, in 1825, his father dying in Indiana in 1847,

John was reared in Tippecanoe County, Ind., receiving a limited education in the primitive log-cabin school, and at the same time being engaged in farming. On October 6, 1846, he married Rachel Shaw, a native of New Jersey, born in 1824, and who was brought by her parents to Tippecanoe County, where they died. Mr. and Mrs. Bennett remained in Indiana until 1853, when Mr. Bennett disposed of his interests and again started forth as a pioneer, locating in Avoca Township, Livingston County, Ill, and there rented land on Section 25 until 1856, when he bought 120 acres on Section 36 of that Township and from the wild prairie made a beautiful home. Thrown upon his own resources he certainly shewed great courage and ability in overcoming all obstacles as he did. When he settled in the township he had about eighty dollars in money, a few rude farm implements and some live stock, but by energy, thrift and good management, he was enabled to add to his possessions until he had accumulated 320 acres of fine land in a high state of cultivation. On this farm the following family was born: Sarah S., born August 29, 1848, and resides at Fairbury ; Miriam M., married Joshua Mills, who is now deceased; Winfield S., born November 15, 1851, died in Fairbury in 1906; John E., born March 5, 1855, resides in Fairbury; George H.; Rachel E., born March 17, 1862, widow of John P. Mitten, who was one of the prominent young business men of Fairbury and member of the Walton Bros. firm; Aaron James, born January 28, 1864, in the real estate, loan and insurance business at Mt. Carroll, Ill.; Mary D., born May 9, 1868, is a resident of Fairbury. John Bennett became one of the well-to-do men of this part of Livingston County, and spent his declining' years retired from active life in Fairbury. His death occurred in 1901, while his wife died in 1890. Both were acquainted with the hardships of pioneer life, and yet he took time from his farming to interest himself in the welfare of the people of his community. serving as a member of the Board of Supervisors three years, was a School Director and School Trustee, and ever ready to bear his part in public affairs. They were both Quakers and a Quaker preacher officiated at the funeral of Mrs. Bennett, although they had joined the

United Brethren Church on account of there being no Society of Friends in the neighborhood. In the early days he was a Whig, and bitterly opposed to slavery in any form. Upon the organization of the Republican party, he strongly advocated its principles and supported them at the polls. He was a man to remember with affection and reverent respect.

George H. Bennett has lived in Livingston County for fifty-one years and, although he has traveled considerably, he has made this locality his permanent home. After attending distriet schools, he spent some time in college at Valparaiso, Ind., and later in the Wesleyan University in Illinois. Coming back home he taught for two years with remarkable success. In 1882 he accepted a position with the L. B. Dominy Bank of Fairbury, as bookkeeper, when he resigned to become bookkeeper for the Walton Brothers .Company, but, preferring farming, to which he had been reared, returned to the old home.

On October 17, 1883, Mr. Bennett was married to Miss Jennie F. Crum, a daughter of David S. Crum, whose biographical record appears on another page in this work. After their marriage, Mr. Bennett rented land until 1887 when in the fall of that year, Mr. Crum having made a trip to California, Mr. Bennett assumed charge of his extensive farming interests which he retained for three years. In 1890 he bought ninety-three acres on Section 17, Belle Prairie Township, adjoining the birthplace of his wife. This property was in very poor condition when Mr. Bennett purchased it, but he soon began improving it, placing it in fine condition until, today, it is one of the best pieces of farm property in the county. In 1901 he erected a beautiful home with all modern conveniences, furnace, hot and cold water. and no expense has been spared to make it a model of comfort and beauty. It is charmingly furnished, the piano is one of the best makes and the young people have other musical instruments. Books and magazines add to the homelike appearance of the house where the visitor is always made cordially welcome.

Mr. and Mrs. Bennett have children as follows: Guy E., born August 7, 1884, died April 29, 1891; Mary Pearl, born September 4, 1886; Carl Crum, born September 19, 1888; Rachel Lois, born May 24, 1899. Mr. and Mrs. Bennett have given their children excellent educations and fitted them for useful, happy lives. Like his father, Mr. Bennett has taken a deep interest in local matters and has served very creditably as School Director, and is now Clerk of the Distriet, No. 304 Union District, Livingston and Mc- Lean Counties. He has also served as Assessor of the township, and in 1898 was elected Town Clerk, holding that position until 1905, when he was nominated and elected without opposition to membership on the County Board of Supervisors from Belle Prairie Township, and again in 1907, was returned to the same office. He has served upon a number of important committees of the Board, and since 1903 has been Secretary of the

Belle Prairie Mutual Fire Insurance Company, and a Director in the Cropsey Farmers' Elevator Company. As a member of the Republican party he has stanchly upheld its princpiles and supported its candidates. Fraternally he is a member of the I. O. O. F., of Oropsey, Ill., and the M. W. A. of Fairbury. Mr. and Mrs. Bennett are active workers in the Methodist Church, of which he is a trustee.

BERGAN, James, for a long period one of the most successful farmers in the vicinity of Chatsworth, Ill., an extensive landholder, and an honored veteran of the Civil War, now a resident of Chatsworth, Livingston County, was born in County Kilkenny, Ireland, May 18, 1842, at the age of eight years was brought by his parents to the United States, landing at Staten Island, N. Y., and three years later accompanied the family to Peoria, Ill., where he worked as a farm hand until 1862. He then rented a farm, but in the midst of the first harvest, enlisted in the army, joining Company E., Seventy-seventh Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry, which was attached to the Thirteenth Army Corps. He served under Grant and Logan, took part in the Siege of Vicksburg, and at Johnston's evacuation of Jackson, Miss., hauled down the Confederate flag, one of the enemy meanwhile covering him with a gun. Following this act, Col. D. P. Greer promoted him "for gallant conduct," and this flag is still preserved as a trophy at Peoria. In July, 1864, he was captured at Fort Gaines, Ala., and was one of the eight prisoners first taken into Mobile. Some of the enemy's officers were in favor of shooting this squad, but the privates interceded in their behalf and their lives were spared, Women in the streets spat in their faces. Mr. Bergan was later taken to Andersonville Prison, where a filthy garb was substituted for his uniform. He was one of the 37,000 Union prisoners, who, during the war, were confined in that fateful enclosure of seventeen acres, where, within the limits of the historic stockade, the death rate was 137 per thousand. Famine stared them in the face, Capt. Wertz, the Commander, repeatedly cutting off the rations for two days at a time, this being done because of Capt. Wertz's dissatisfaction over the fact that two-thirds of the camp cast their vote for Abraham Lincoln. Mr. Bergan was confined ten months and three days at Andersonville, his weight during this period being reduced from 165 to 110 pounds. But three of the men captured with him came out alive.

In June, 1868, Mr. Bergan located in Livingston County, Ill., and on June 9, 1874, was married to Mary Boyle, a native of Ireland, and daughter of Patrick Boyle, who was born in County Louth, Ireland, in 1814, and died at the home of his daughter Mary, in Chatsworth, Ill, April 2. 1891. For many years he had been a farmer in the State of New Jersey. Eight children were the offspring of this union, as follows: William B., Thomas F., John H., Catherine L., Anastachia M., Mary E., James M. and Joseph J. Of these, William E., who was born September

14, 1876, and married Florence Jemson, is employed at the State Reform School in Pontiac. 'Thomas F., born in 1877, married Kate McGuire, and operates the old home farm. John H., aged twenty-nine years, married Lizzie Sullivan and is a stock buyer at Pipe City, Ill. Catherine L. married James Goggans, a farmer of Charlotte Township, where she now lives. Anna M. is the wife of Frank O'Brien, a farmer in Peoria County, Ill.; Mary E. married Charles Shaughnessy, a farmer near Pipe City. James M., aged twentytwo years, married Gertrude Shaughnessy, and follows farming three miles south of Chatsworth. Joseph J., aged sixteen, is a High School student, living at home.

Mr, Bergan owns two farms, the home farm containing 320 acres. and the Chatsworth Township farm, three miles southeast of the village, comprising 180 acres. For many years he was one of the largest stock-feeders in Livingston County, feeding as many as 300 head of cattle at one time. In 1903 he removed from the Chatsworth Township farm to the village of Chatsworth, leaving both farms to the management of his sons.

Politically, Mr. Bergan is a Republican. He has served seventeen years as School Director; twelve years as Road Commissioner, and as Township Supervisor until he took up his residence in Chatsworth. He was instrumental in enlarging the County Farm, and in rebuilding the County buildings. Fraternally, he is connected with the Knights of Columbus, and is a popular comrade of the Grand Army of the Republic. Mr. Bergan and his wife are members of S. S. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, of Chatsworth.

Mr. Bergan was a member of the committee appointed by the Board of Supervisors of Livingston County - Hon. Ira M. Lish, now State Senator from the Livingston District, then being Chairman of the Board - which had charge of the construction of the monument in honor of the soldiers of the Civil War from Livingston County, which was completed in 1903, being located in the northeast corner of the public square in Pontiac, The other members of the Committee were Hon. M. Cleary, of Odell Township; Ira M. Lish, of Saunemin; J. C. Deamer, of Union; D. M. Wilder, of Waldo; J. W. Hoover, of Pontiac; and A. H. Haag, of Cullom. Mr. Bergan represented Charlotte Township, and served as Chairman of the Committee. After visiting and examining monuments in different parts of the State, the contract for the erection of the monument was let to Messrs. Merkle Brothers, of Peoria, who were the lowest bidders, the cost being $12,153.50, borne by the taxpayers of Livingston County. This monument will compare favorably with any other of its kind in the State, and is a tribute to the patriotism of the soldiers of the Civil War period, in which the citizens of Livingston County take a just pride.

BESGROVE, Frank C., for fifteen years identified with the best agricultural and stock interests of Livingston County and Central Illinois, and thoroughly conversant with every detail of his business, is certainly an excellent exponent of the scientific farming class of today. Mr, Besgrove was born on the farm he now occupies on Section 1, Belle Prairie Township, November is, 1873, a son of James Besgrove, an extended sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this work. Frank C. Besgrove was reared to farm life, and received a liberal education in the district schools of Belle Prairie and Avoca Townships, and followed this by one year at the high school of Fairbury. When about fifteen years of age, his father bought 160 acres in Avoca Township, and in 1890 Frank C. Besgrove went to that farm remaining about four years, when he returned to Belle Prairie and took charge of the homestead, his sister keeping house for him for two years, until January 1, 1896, when he married Katie R. Ulfer, born in Avoca Township, a daughter of Rudolph Ulfer, a pioneer of Livingston County. The young couple settled on the homestead, which is one of the best farms in the county and is known as the Besgrove Stock Farm. Here Mr. Besgrove has extended his interests and entered extensively into horse breeding and raising. In 1897 he purchased Lenard, a registered French coach horse imported by a horse breeder of Wayne, Ill., and in 1899 purchased a Black Percheron stallion, one of the finest in the County. Mr. Besgrove has been one of the leading horsemen of this locality for many years and has made a specialty of his Percheron stock. In 1900 he purchased a registered Percheron mare,, in 1903 became owner of a Black Percheron horse, Achille, No. 33904, and in December. 1905, bought Romain, No. 29624, which took second place at the Chicago Stock Show of that year. He bought this horse just as the ribbon was being placed on him. His Black Percheron took first place in a show of twenty-five entries in 1903. In September, 1907, he bought from Ford & Harrington of Fairbury, two of their best imported Percheron mares, and has five of the best horses that could be purchased at the Fat Stock Show at Chicago. A full brother of his took first place at St. Louis. one of these has been entered at other stock shows, and has never been beaten in the ring. This horse was considered the best of the two that were shown as a team until he bought the horse for $3,000. He also bought it as the ribbon was placed on it. The owner asked $3,500, but Mr. Besgrove would not pay more. He had paid this amount before he had seen him in the ring, trusting to his own good judgment. His Percheron mares now weigh 4248 pounds and are considered among the best ever imported, having been brought by Mr. Ford in 1907. Mr. Besgrove has been very successful in his selection and breeding and has now Percheron and Belgian stallions, two French Percheron mares, and a two-year old Percheron that weighed 1,700 pounds the day he was two years old. He also has a one-year old Percheron that weighs 1,000 pounds. In addition he has nine Percheron mares registered stock and four coach mares. As can easily be seen he has bought only the best that could be found, displayed at the biggest horse shows, and regardless of price, and is expecting a fine ship- ment consisting of two stallions and two coach mares, the best that importers could select. Mr. Besgrove's reputation as a horseman is second to none throughout Central Illinois, and he is recognized as an authority on horse flesh.

daughter, Esther, born July 6, 1899, a very bright little girl. Mr. and Mrs, Besgrove are consistent members of the Christian Church, to which they contribute liberally. Mr. Besgrove never would accept of political honors, preferring to devote his time and attention to his work, and the results have proven his wisdom. His horses are without doubt the finest in this locality and their reputation extends all over the country, and his animals commanding the highest prices everywhere.

BESGROVE, James, (deceased.) - The history of any community is the record of the lives of the men who have made it what it has become and who made possible the development eventually attained. If it had not been for the brave efforts of those men who reclaimed the great State of Illinois from timber and swamp, the Commonwealth would not today occupy the position it does among the other States of the Union. Among those who have thus nobly contributed themselves towards this great work, the late James Besgrove was a prominent figure, and when he passed away, May 13, 1907, on his beautiful farm in Avoca Township, Livingston County, the State lost one of its most valuable farmer-residents and his family a member it could ill afford to give up. For many years he was a resident of Belle Prairie Township, but was born in Somersetshire, England, December 13, 1844, a son of Charles and Eliza (Browning) Besgrove, both natives of England. The father died there in 1862, but the mother survived some years finally passing away in her native land. They were the parents of these children: William, Henry, Mary A., James of whom we are writing; Alfred and Charles. Henry located in Illinois, but the others all came to settle in Missouri.

When but sixteen years old, James left home and taking passage on a sailing vessel, after a five weeks voyage was landed at New York City, and from there went to Albany, but after he reached that city he could not obtain work and was penniless. Communicating with his brother Henry, who had preceded him and located in Mc- Lean County, Ill., he secured railroad fare and, once in McLean County, easily found work at $200 a year. By practicing the most rigid economy, at the end of three years he had repaid his brother and saved enough to make a first payment upon elghty acres of government land in Belle Prairie Township, Livingston County. This land was unbroken prairie, but, undaunted, the young fellow set to work to clear it and erect a house and barn. Gradually he added to it until he had a fine 160-acre farm of as good land as can be found in the township. There the family lived until 1889, when he bought a farm in Avoca Township, to which they moved, and there Mrs. Besgrove still lives. At the time of his death

Mr. Besgrove had increased his holdings until he owned 540 acres of excellent farming land and was one of the wealthiest men in Livingston County, all haying been secured through frugality, enterprise and hard work.

On January 1, 1872, Mr. Besgrove married Elizabeth Mastis, born in Somersetshire, England, September 4, 1853, and came to America with her parents and sisters, Mary, Susan and Sarah N. Mr. and Mrs. Besgrove were the parents of the following children: Frank C., born November 18, 1873; Herbert J., born October 4, 1875; Mary C., born October 9, 1881; Charles, born April 23, 1883; Annie, born January 26, 1885; Bliza, who died in infancy; Walter, born August 14, 1888, and Roy, born August 9, 1892. In every relation of life Mr. Besgrove proved himself an honorable, true-hearted gentleman, and was an excellent business man who knew how to make, save and invest money so that he leayes his family well provided for, not alone in money, but by a record for charitable and kindly deeds and upright dealings that will prove a precious heritage to those left behind.

BISHOPP, Harry B., D. D. S., Fairbury, Liyingston County, Ill. Men and women of middle age who have been at all observant are aware that vast strides have been made in the dental profession during recent years. Itisa far cry from the tooth-pulling "doctor" and the itinerant dentist of the middle of the last century, to the scientifie Doctor of Dental Surgery of the present day. Improvement in implements, appliances and accessories has kept pace with the advance in knowledge and skill of the men who In Central Illinois there are many well educated and well equipped dentists, but it is not probable that there is one who has more clearly demonstrated the possession of superior knowledge, ability and experienced skill than Dr. Harry B. Bishopp, of Fairbury.

Doctor Bishopp was born in Sheldon, Iroquois County, Ill., December 29, 1876, a son of Barton and Martha A, (Moore) Bishopp, the former a native of County Kent, England, the latter of Iroquois County, Ill. Barton Bishopp came to America with his parents when he was about sixteen years old. After tarrying a short time in the Hast, the family came west as far as Iroquois County, where Edward Barton Bishopp, father of Barton Bishopp, and grandfather of Harry B. Bishopp, took up the life of a farmer. There Barton Bishopp grew to manhood, and there he married and finally established himself in business as a miller and manufacturer of corn products at Sheldon.

The boyhood days of Doctor Bishopp were passed in his native town, where he received his primary education in the public schools, graduating with the class of 1893. From that time until 1896 he was employed in his father's mill. He then matriculated in the Northwestern University Dental School, Chicago, from which he was graduated with the class of 1899, with the degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery. He practiced his profession at Wolcott, White County,

Ind., until June, 1900. The time from June until the following August he spent at Sheldon assisting his father. In August, 1900, he came to Fairbury and opened a strictly modern dental office, complete in its eyery appointment, The quality of his professional services and the fairness of his methods, no less than his winning personality, have brought him the general confidence of the people of the town, and he has had no difficulty in working up to a good and dependable practice.

September 23, 1906, Doctor Bishopp married Miss Edith M. Barnes, a native of Fairbury and a daughter of Dr. S. M. Barnes, one of the most prominent physicians and surgeons in Central Illinois. Dr. and Mrs. Bishopp are active in all social matters in the town. The Doctor is an Ancient Free and Accepted Mason, a member of Tarboton Lodge No. 351, of Fairbury, Fairbury Chapter No. 99 R, A. M., and St. Paul Commandery No. 84 K. T., and Mrs. Bishopp is identified with the Order of the Eastern Star. The Doctor is also a popular member of the Fairbury Lodge Knights of Pythias. Politically he affiliates with the Republican party, and takes an intelligent and active interest in all questions affecting the public weal.

Doctor Bishopp was the fourth in order of birth of a family of eight children. Edward Barton Bishopp (named for his grandfather) is dead. William Frank Bishopp is manager of a mill at Sheldon, Ill. Virgie M. Bishopp married L. O. Snow, a banker at Sheldon, Ill. Dr. J. A. Bishopp is a dentist at Forrest, Ill. Arthur A. Bishopp is a bookkeeper in the bank of Sheldon. Martha W. Bishopp is teacher in the public school, Sheldon; and Benjamin B. Bishopp is a bookkeeper for the mill.

BLACKMORE, Henry. - At the time of the settlement of the Blackmore family in Illinois in 1838, this region was as yet sparsely settled by white men, but Indians were still numerous and evinced, with few exceptions, a savage hatred toward the supplanting race. The little fouryear-old boy, Henry, coming from his New York home to the wilderness, was filled with a dread of the blanket-clad savages, whose feats, after partaking of whisky in excess, were often enough to make the. stoutest hearts quail. Yet among these Indians there was one who ever displayed a kindly spirit toward the whites, and this was Shabbona, chief of the Pottawatomies, who though less conspicuous than Tecumseh or Black- Hawk, in point of merit and intelligence surpassed both. This chief was born on the Kankakee River in 1775, and died June 17, 1859, being survived by his wife, Pokanoke, who was drowned in Mazon Creek in 1864. Through all of the Indian wars he never betrayed the white men. Twice he was visited by the great warrior, Black Hawk, in an endeavor to enlist him on the Indian side, but he refused to turn against those who ever had been kind to him. Many savages threatened to kill him and twice he had narrow escapes from death at their hands. His son, Pypeogee, and nephew, Pyps, were shot down like dogs by some of their own race.

Through the efforts of Shabbona the Black Hawk War was terminated much sooner than otherwise would have been possible. After the Government had taken from him his reservation of two sections of land, the city of Ottawa presented him with a tract above Seneca on the Illinois River and there he erected a house and maintained his family until death.

Shortly after John and Sarah Blackmore came from England to the United States arid settled in Rochester, N. Y., their son, Henry, was born in the latter city January 6, 1834. During his infancy his parents moyed to Indiana and, in 1838, became pioneers of Illinois, where they made their home in Ottawa for about five years, thence coming to Sunbury Township, Livingston County. Remaining at the home farm until twenty-one years of age, Henry Blackmore then started out for himself and for two years engaged in farming in Peoria County, but at the expiration of that time he returned to Sunbury Township. During the year 1874 he came to Pontiac and bought the 'bus line, which business he conducted with efficiency and success. While engaged in the prosecution of the duties connected with the business, he dropped dead in the Chicago and Alton Depot, July 27, 1902. His death was deeply mourned by a large circle of his warm 'personal friends.

Through all of his active life Mr. Blackmore was a stanch Republican in politics, and in religion he held membership in the Methodist Episcopal church, while fraternally he was associated with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Grand Army of the Republic. At the opening of the Civil War he was eager to enlist in defense of the Union. August 17, 1861, his name was enrolled as a private in Company C, First Illinois Light Artillery, Houghteling's Battery, and with his regiment he went to the front, where he bore a brave part in many memorable conflicts with the enemy. At the expiration of his term of enlistment he was honorably dis-. charged and, in September, 1864, returned to the old homestead in Sunbury Township. Amongthe battles in which he participated were thoseof Island No. 10, siege of Corinth, Stone River, siege of Atlanta, and battles of Jonesboro and Chickamaugua.

Mr. Blackmore was united in marriage August 17,1855, with Elizabeth King, who was born in Peoria County, Ill. They had no children of their own, but reared the two children of Mr. Blackmore's sister, these being Henry Oliver, of Pontiac, and Zela M. Oliver, who married H. H. Scatterday, also of Pontiac. Mrs. Blackmore, who survives her husband, is a daughter of William and Mary (Shane) King, the former a native of New Orleans, La., and the latter born in Wheeling, W. Va. Becoming pioneers of Illinois, they settled on wild land in Peoria County. where they remained until death.

BODLEY, John, (deceased). a most worthy pioneer farmer of Livingston County, Ill, and a man who, for more than half a century, enjoyed' to an unusual degree the confidence and esteem, of the people of Avoca Township, where his useful and successful life was mainly passed, was born in the vicinity of Dayton, Montgomery County, Ohio, February 9, 1829. His parents, Thomas and Anna J. (Duncan) Bodley, were natives of Montgomery County, Ohio, and Kentucky, Ohio, respectively. On the paternal side, his ancestors were English, while the maternal ancestry represented some of the best blood of the Scotch-Irish race. Thomas Bodley served two terms on the Board of Supervisors, four years on the Highway Commission and fifteen years as member of the School Board.. The paternal greatgrandfather came to America in time to help the colonists in their struggle against Great Britain, and Grandfather Duncan was a soldier in the War of 1812. Soon after the birth of the subject of this sketch his father and mother moved to Fountain County, Ind., locating there during the early settlement of that region. There Thomas Bodley took up a tract of government land and, applying himself diligently to the cultivation of the soil, succeeded in building up a comfortable home. In 1852 he came to Livingston County, Ill., locating in Avoca Township and liyed there until his death February 27, 1906, the death of the mother taking place on March 23, of the same year. Their family consisted of eight children, two of whom died when quite young, six growing to maturity, but the subject of this sketch is the only one of the family now living.

John Bodley was reared in Fountain County, Ind., his early youth being hampered by limited opportunities for mental improvement. What education he was able to get was obtained in the subscription schools of those early times, mainly during the winter season. As soon as he was old enough to be of service he was made useful on the farm, and there became accustomed to the various details of an agricultural life. He began to lay his plans for the future when a young man, and on reaching his majority, was united in marriage with Mary A. Volva, June 5, 1850, at her mother's home in Utica, Ind. She was born in Fountain County, Ind., October 7, 1833, a daughter of William and Mary (Whitehall) Volva., By her he had seven children, of whom two - Della and Eddie - died at an early age. Those who reached years of maturity were Mary E., Thomas, John, William and Dora. Mary B., died in September, 1876; John died February 13, 1905, and Thomas fourteen days later. William is the only surviving member of the original group. <A record of the latter's career may be found elsewhere in this connection.

John Bodley lived in Fountain County, Ind., until 1854, and in that year moved to Livingston «County, Ill., locating in Avoca Township, where he had entered up 360 acres of Government land. On this not a furrow had been broken, and the entire tract contained no building. Securing a small tenement to shelter his family, he began to prepare the soil for cultivation. supervising the cutting of timber with the intention of put- 'ting up a frame dwelling. The first trees were felled in June, 1855, the lumber being dressed in a saw-mill and kiln-dried, and in the following August the house was ready for occupancy, having been built in the substantial manner characteristic of all Mr. Bodley's undertakings. At that time it was considered the best farm dwelling in this part of the county. In a short time he erected good barns for his stock and the family were comfortably settled in their new home, fencing and further improvements being carried on. On this farm John Bodley and his wife spent the remainder of their days, the busy and useful life of the father terminating February 27, 1906, and the worthy mother following him to the grave on the 23d day of the following month, having shared together the pleasures and hardships of pioneer life for more than fifty years.

In all new settlements which have had a prosperous development, there have been a few leading spirits upon whom devolved the task of planting the standard of progress. John Bodley was one of these, never lagging behind and waiting for someone else to say, "come on," but always taking the lead in every movement calculated to promote the material, moral and intellectual interests of the community. As a reward of his long and strenuous endeavors he was graciously permitted by Divine Providence to see the locality on which he had trod as a sturdy and hopeful pioneer become one of the most productive and enlightened portions of the State.

Politically, Mr. Bodley was a life-long supporter of the Republican party, and was one of the first to hold the office of Supervisor, he being elected to that position twice. He served for four years as Highway Commissioner, and for fifteen years was a member of the School Board of Avoca Township. From an early age he was a Zealous Methodist, and his religious sincerity and integrity were never questioned. He was one of the most earnest members of the Methodist Episcopal church at Lodemia Station, whose place of worship was built in 1876, largely through contributions from his ample resources. He and his wife were connected with this church from the time of its organization, and in it he officiated as steward, being also superintendent of the sunday school for many years. On many occasions, he represented the Onarga and Kankakee districts as a delegate to the General Conference of the Methodist church. He was an exemplary Christian and a model citizen, and it is the consensus of opinion among the fellow townsmen of their departed co-laborer that the sphere in which he moved was made far better by the reflected beneficence of his life.

BODLEY, William, one of the most favorably known of the pioneer residents of Avoca Township, Livingston County, Ill., where all of his mature life has been devoted to successful farming and the breeding of high-grade stock, was born February 19, 1858, in the same township. He is a son of John and Mary Ann (Voliva) Bodley, whose biographical record appears on another page in this volume. The boyhood days of William Bodley were passed in assisting his father in the work of the farm and striving to obtain an education in the district schools. He remained with his parents until he was twentyone years old. In 1879 he rented a portion of the homestead place, and on May 30, 1883, was united in marriage with Anna K. Smith, a daughter of Samuel and Sarah Amanda (Silkott) Smith, who came from Ohio. Mrs. Bodley's mother died when her daughter Anna was about eleven years of age, and the latter afterwards lived with her uncle, John W. Smith, an early settler in Livingston County, and one of the leading men in his locality. Mr. and Mrs. Bodley began housekeeping in the old Bodley place, and in 1884, occupied the 'Champlin farm," at the same time working his father's land. In 1885 he rented the Trohler farm in Avoca Township, and in the following year moved to his present farm, which has since been his place of residence. In the home farm which he has inherited are 100 acres, and he also owns 40 acres in Section 17, Avoca Township, which he bought in March 1906. For many years he has been one of the principal breeders of Poland-China hogs in the township, which, while not registered, are eligible for registration. He is also a leading horse-breeder, raising draft, French coach and roadster horses, and his stock has always brought the highest prices in the market. He is now dealing in a mixed-breed horse of fine style. His farming and stock-raising operations have been attended with successful results, and he is regarded as one of the most enterprising and progressive men in this line in his section of the county.

Mr. Bodley well remembers the time when the locality where he lives was a wild prairie. the slough grass being high, and the land now so highly cultivated being all under water. On the tract which his father bought was a pond, and into this he drove with a team to put down stakes for a fence. All this area, once the feeding place of wild geese and ducks, has been drained by sub-tiling, and is now covered by farmers' homes. Mr. Bodley has done his full share in reclaiming this region from its primitive condition and in making it productive and valuable. Of his father's family of eight children he is the sole survivor left to tell the story of the privations and hardships of their pioneer days in Livingston County.

Mr. and Mrs. Bodley became the parents of five children, namely: Fred S., born March 8, 1884; Mary, born July 18, 1889; Horace W., born December 31, 1892; Robert G., born January 17, 1899, and Margaret, who was born August 26, 1902. Fred S. Bodley married Alta Bills, and is a farmer in Eppards Point Township, Livingston County. Mary is the wife of John B. Love, and has one child. Her husband is a resident of Kankakee, Ill., where he is in charge of a large horse-barn. Horace W. is attending school. The mother of this family is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church.

intimately associated with the present financial and commercial interests of Pontiac, Ill., than that of Ogden P. Bourland, whose personsal history may almost be said to be the history of the National Bank of Pontiac. On the organization of that institution in May, 1874, under the presidency of J. E, Morrow, he entered the employ of the concern and since then has been a leading factor in the development of its business, the enlargement of its interests and the extension of its loans and mortgages. Successively he has occupied the offices of Cashier, Vice-President and President, directing the policy of the institution and superintending its investments with conservatism.

Born in Peoria, Ill.. November 15, 1850, Mr. Bourland is a son of Benjamin L. T. and Julia (Preston) Bourland, natives, respectively, of Kentucky and St. Charles, Ill. The grandfather, Thomas Bourland, was a native of Kentucky and there married a Miss Reece; his father, Thomas Bourland, removed from North Carolina to Kentucky at a very early day. The maternal greatgrandfather, Isaac Preston, commanded a regiment during the Revolutionary war. As early as 1836 Benjamin L. T. Bourland accompanied his parents to Illinois and settled at Vandalia, where his father worked in the state house and, in 1843, he held a clerkship in the Auditor's office, at Springfield. Through the influence of Stephen A. Douglas. who took a fatherly interest in him, he secured a position in the office of William B. Ogden of Chicago, the first mayor of that city, and a man of commanding mental resources and wide business influence. Being given charge of the land department in the offices of Ogden. Jones & Co., Mr. Bourland removed to Peoria in 1846, and carried on an extensive business in locating land warrants in what was known as the Military Tract of Illinois; eventually purchasing the company's Peoria agency. Though now eighty-three years of age, he still conducts an extensive land and loan business. He has been a widower since the death of his wife in 1867.

After having completed the courses of studies of the Peoria public schools, Ogden P. Bourland became a student in the State Collegiate Institute at New Haven, Conn., and later attended in Peoria County the Episcopal College of INinois, founded by Bishop Chase of the Episcopal Church. At the age of eighteen years he entered the employ of the grain commission house of Spruance Preston. of Chicago, but the following year he returned to Peoria, and later for two years he traveled in Illinois, loaning money on land, in the interests of the Aetna Life Insurance Company. On resigning that position he came to Pontiac as an employe of Joseph F. Culver & Co., in the real-estate and loan business, but in 1873 severed his connection with that firm and the next year became identified with the bank to which he has since given his most conscientious efforts, Politically he gives his allegiance to the Republican party. For two terms he served as an Alderman, representing the Third Ward of Pontiac. In fraternal relations he is a member of

The marriage of Mr. Bourland took place in November, 1883, when he was united with Miss Mary P. Codding, who was born in Lockport, Ill., and by whom he has four children: Julia, Rudolph, Theodore and Langford. The parents of Mrs. Bourland were Rev. Ichabod and Maria (Preston) Codding, natives of New York, the former a man of marked ability and oratorical powers. Many offices of political, prominence were tendered him, but these he declined in order that he might pursue his chosen labors as a clergyman in the Congregational church, Prior to the Civil Wer he was a co-laborer with the famous Owen Lovejoy in political campaigns, both residing in Princeton, Ill., at that time.

BOYER, George W., a greatly respected citizen of Dwight, Ill, where he is passing bis declining years in comfortable retirement, is the owner of a highly improved and productive farm in the vicinity of the town, on which a considerable portion of his active life was spent in successfully tilling the soil. In the period of his full vigor he was one of the most industrious, diligent and thorough among the farmers of Dwight Township, and is richly entitled to the restful ease which now rewards a career of long continued toil. Mr. Boyer was born in Lancaster County, Pa.. February 20, 1827. His father and mother, George and Lydia (Ropp) Boyer, were also natives of that State, the birth of Lydia Ropp having occurred in what is now the city of Reading. When a young man, George Boyer followed the occupation of hauling merchandise to various points on the Pennsylvania turnpikes, some of his trips covering many miles in extent. Subsequently he devoted his attention to farming, in which he was engaged during the remainder of his life. In politics, he was a supporter of the Whig party. Both parents died in their native State. The religious faith of both was that of the Lutheran church. Their family consisted of five sons and one daughter, and of this number but one is now living. The father died in 1866, George W. Boyer was reared on the home farm, and received his education in the common schools of Lancaster County. In early manhood, he was employed for some time in burning charcoal in the woods near his father's place, but later applied himself wholly to farm work. In 1867 he came to Illinois to see the country, and while visiting in Livingston County, yielding to the persuasions of one of his cousins who had preceded him to this locality, bought a farm of 80 acres. By dint of hard work he gradually accumulated the means wherewith to pay for the land, and, in 1878, was enabled to buy 80 acres more, adjoining his first purchase. On the place, situated a few miles south of Dwight, Mr. Boyer carried on general farming and stock-raising until 1894, when he abandoned work and moved to Dwight, buying a residence on West Chippewa Street, which he has since occupied.

time. Mrs. Boyer was a daughter of Henry and Katharine Turnbaugh, early settlers of Pennsylvania, where they spent the whole of their lives. Seven children were the offspring of this union, as follows: Henry F., who lives on the old homestead in Dwight Township; Annetta, whose home is in Nebraska; Samuel Harvey, a resident of Dwight; Sarah Katharine, of Kansas; Climena Ellen, residing in Dwight; George W., deceased ; and Alfred A., who is connected with the Dwight Telephone system. Mrs. Boyer, a woman of high character and a devoted wife and mother, passed away January 17, 1899. She was a devout member of the Methodist Episcopal church, as is also her husband.

Politically, Mr. Boyer has been long an adherent of the Republican party, and has rendered efficient and faithful service to his township as Road Commissioner and School Director. He has lived a busy, upright and useful life, and in his waning years is the object of unfeigned respect and hearty good wishes on the part of all who know him.

BOYER, Henry Foster, a farmer of the best repute, who is engaged in cultivating 160 acres of very desirable and finely improved land in Dwight Township, Livingston County, Ill., a few miles south of the town of Dwight, was born in Blair County, Pa., January 16, 1854, a son of George W. and Mary Ann (Turnbaugh) Boyer, natives of Pennsylvania, his father born in Lancaster County, February 20, 1827. The paternal grandparents, George and Lydia (Roop) Boyer, were also Pennsylvanians by nativity, the city of Reading being Grandmother Boyers' birthplace. Henry and Catharine Turnbaugh, the grandparents on the maternal side, settled in Pennsylvania at a very early period, and there spent their lives. George W. Boyer, father of Henry F., came to Illinois with his family in 1867, locating in Livingston County, and after farming many years, moved to Dwight, where he is now living in retirement, his wife having died January 17, 1899, A detailed narrative of his life, together with further particulars in relation to the Boyer family, is given separately in this connection. Henry F. Boyer received his education in the common schools of Livingston County, and remained at home until he was twenty-five years old, when he went to Dwight, and there worked for some time at the carpenter's trade. Subsequently, he was engaged in breeding draft horses, continuing in this occupation until his father's advancing years recalled him to the home farm, the latter removing to Dwight and relinquishing active pursuits, Since assuming the management of the homestead, Mr. Boyer's farming operations have been followed by profitable results, and he is accounted one of the most successful farmers in his township.

On December 23, 1885, Mr. Boyer was joined in matrimony with Nellie Morris. who was born in Dwight Township, a daughter of William and Cathron (Devine) Morris, natives of England, and very early settlers in this locality. Tbe father of Mrs. Boyer, who was the owner of a very fine farm of 200 acres, died when she was but twelve years old; but her mother is still living at the age of eighty-two years. William Morris was a man of high character and a citizen of earnest public spirit. Politically, he was a stanch Republican. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Boyer has been blessed with three chiidren, all of whom are at home and making themselves useful in the work of the farm. Their names are: Howard M., Mary Cathron and George Morris.

In politics Mr. Boyer is a firm supporter of the Republican party, and has rendered efficient service as School Director and Road Commissioner.

BRADBURY, Benjamin Franklin, one of the oldest residents of Eppards Point Township, Livingston County, Ul, a thorough and successful _ farmer, a man of a high order of intelligence and of broad and varied information, and regarded by all as a leading and eminently useful useful character in his locality, has lived in Livingston County for forty years, having been brought to the county by his parents when he was a lad of twelve years. He was born in Peoria County, Ill.. on July 7, 1857. His father, Joseph Sanders Bradbury, who was half-owner of a large sawmill in West Virginia, moved from that State to Peoria County in 1850, His mill in Virginia had an extensive run in the lumber regions of that State, furnishing ties and bridge timbers for new railroads, lumber material for steamboats and the necessary mill material for various other commercial uses. The cloud of seccession was then already lowering over that region, the religious element was divided into North and South Churches, and men often carried fire-arms with them to their places of worship. The parents of Mr. Bradbury entertained anti-slavery sentiments, which, even at that early period, subjected his property to hazards, and made the conditions surrounding his wife and children not altogether free from danger. While the Southerner seemed cordial towards those Northern people who were furthering the enterprises they desired to develop, they were nevertheless plainly getting ready for a conflict which they deemed inevitable, which would establish a Confederacy based on slavery, under the domination of King Cotton. Slavery, however, was too revolting an institution for the elder Bradbury to uphold. and war in its behalf was a dreadful alternative to be awaited, and for this reason he sold his interests to his partner, who was a college professor, a typical son of the old Dominion, a genial gentleman and considerate towards his'slaves. With a substantial profit resulting from the disposition of his share in the saw-mill, the father with his wife and family moved to Illinois, settling in Peoria County.

The birthplace of Benjamin F. Bradbury was a snug little cottage containing six rooms, being one of the most comfortably arranged of the pioneer dwellings in that locality. He was next to the youngest of six living children who reached years of. maturity. The father, who was the first of the family to die, was born in Amherst, N. H., July 22, 1811, and grew to manhood in that State, going thence to New York City, and learning the trade of a printer in the office where Horace Greeley was taking the same course. In later years, together with an elder brother, William L. Bradbury, he was engaged in publishing the New York Sun. This brother

' died of smallpox, at that time a wide-spread epidemic, sweeping off residents of the city by hundreds. Being thus left without a partner in the newspaper enterprise, the father continued to publish the Sun alone for several years. It was a profitable enterprise, having a very fine job-work patronage from first-class business men. Some unique specimens of advertisements then printed in that office are still in the possession of his descendants. These are very large leaf, or sheet cards of unusually heavy printing paper, with a most exquisite, mahoganized, marbled or sea-blue color. On these are printed, in artistic type and manner, and in gold, silver or bright bronze, the announcements of hotels, marine lines, commercial houses, etc. Few people of the present time have ever beheld more superb typographical work or beautiful paper. At that time it was a very expensive but common and effective method among those of large means, of exploiting business enterprises in large cities. Having been seized with an optical ailment, Joseph S. Bradbury was finally compelled to dispose of his business interests in New York, and, under the advice of his physician, to seek an outdoor life in a milder climate, he accordingly moved to Wheeling, W. Va., and as previously indicated, engaged in the manufacture of lumber material. His health being much improved by this change, he was induced to abandon his Virginia occupation, and in order to continue in his out-of-door pursuits, to adopt agricultural pursuits in a pioneer settlement on the prairies of Illinois. In this region, Peoria was then the only home market for grains and cereals, The farmers in those days shelled corn by hand-shellers, and trampled their grain out with horses, or in some cases flailed it out, as was most convenient.. The scythe was then in vogue, and the odd-looking cradle was the "harvesting machine." The sturdy farmers of early times were thus inured to exertion which would prove fatal to many of the modern younger agriculturists. Farm labor at the present day is in many parts a song accompaniment to life, and homes and beautiful fields now gladden the landscape which was once the scene of the toils and struggles of the hardy pioneers.

The maiden name of Benjamin F. Bradbury's mother was Mary Mercena Lunt, and she was born in Newburyport, Mass., August 17, 1813, and there received her education in the public schools and academy, subsequently teaching school in that town for many years. She was a cousin of his father, who also had acquired an academic education in his native place, and they were sweethearts throughout their wedded life, giving to their children an ideal home, which is held in hallowed memory. The remains of both parents lie in the quaint little cemetery near the old homestead, where repose the ashes of many of the early settlers of that locality.

The grandfather on the paternal side was William Bradbury, son of Daniel Bradbury, who was a soldier in the Revolutionary War and was killed in the Battle of White Plains. William Bradbury was a wheelwright and carriage-maker by trade, and was also a talented musician, and an instructor in music. The ancestral line of the family was of French-English origin. The maternal grandfather was Richard Lunt, a sailor boy for twenty years, and a sea captain for fifty years later. He was the owner of a merchant vessel which plied between the eastern and southern shores of the United States and the West India Islands, including also the coast of South America bordering on the Caribbean Sea. Twice during his career as a navigator, he witnessed the slaughter of human life resulting from insurrections in those regions, the Spaniards driving their helpless victims down to the seashore, and after literally cutting them into pieces. casting the mangled bodies of the slain into the waves. In his younger days, this venerable seaman had some experience in the War of 1812, being twice captured by the British Marines, and his cargoes being confiscated in each instance. It so happened, however, that in both cases his vessel was retaken by United States cruisers. In the long period of his sea service he was never shipwrecked. A photograph of the veteran sailor at the age of ninety-nine years represents him as unbent in form, with classic features and eyes as bright as those of a child. He died in his one hundredth year from the effects of a fall upon a sleet-covered sidewalk, and was laid to rest in the cemetery at Newburyport. the city out of which he had sailed for so many years.

Cutting Lunt, uncle of Richard Lunt, was one of the heroic mariners belonging to the crews of John Paul Jones, the illustrious naval commander who, with his three comparatively small vessels, scoured the British waters, destroying the enemy's merchantmen and much shore property. In one of the coast raids quite a number of Commodore Jones' sailors were captured and held as prisoners of war, undergoing severe privations, and among these heroes was Cutting Lunt. Many of the unfortunate prisoners succumbed under the burden of their hardship, dying in captivity, and Cutting Lunt yielded up his life a few days before he was to have been released, the war having been brought to a close.

Benjamin F. Bradbury received an excellent school education in his youth, obtained under the ablest of instructors, and subsequently attended the high school, matriculating also in Bureka College, but not taking the full course, Several of his preceptors were ministers of the Gospel. and their names and characters linger in his memory as suggestions of wholesome and beneficent lives. He has taught school and holds both the second and first grade teacher's certificates, but having the opportunity to engage more profitably in farming, has applied his energies in that direction. Throughout his agricultural experience he has never, however, ceased to maintain a process of educating himself, and has spent much time in studying the languages and many of the higher and more technical branches of science. During the last six years, in his intervals of leisure, he has made a most searching study of astronomy, geography and meteorology, for the purpose of preparing an astro-geographical chart on which long range forecasts of weather could be based with reasonable certainty. This chart is intended to reorganize the old principles and methods of weather science, adding materially in the way of new and provable knowledge in meteorology.

The subject of this sketch is a bachelor. He owns the old homestead of his boyhood, fraught with memories of early days; for the old familiar district school, Lakeside District 87, is in plain sight. There stand the stately trees which his childhood hands planted, and where the birds have sung their songs among the leaves and branches throughout the summers of many lapsing years. his life's dream of happiness has been beautifully realized. With a farm well kept and under thorough cultivation through his own industry; with a cozy home well supplied with good books, papers and magazines, and walls hung with pleasing pictures; with flowers on the lawn to greet the advent of the season of bloom, and all material things to afford charm and cheer, Mr. Bradbury dwells in contentment, one of the most favorably known citizens of Livingston County.

Politically, although of Democratic paternity, Mr. Bradbury has been wont to vote the Republican ticket for Presidential candidates and on national issues. Especially, he supports those commending themselves to his judgment as best qualified for the various offices. He has served as School Director in the old home district of his childhood for twenty-one consecutive years, having acted in the capactiy of clerk of the board since his first election. Fraternally, he is affiliated with the M. W. A. and the I. O. O. F. In matters pertaining to religious faith, his inclination is towards the Quaker belief of his ances- _ tors. but he has occupied a liberal position towards all Christian denominations, and is in all respects a public-spirited member of the community.

BRADFORD, Ralph F., the present Postmaster of Pontiac, is one of the community's capable and progressive business men, and by occupation is a trained and widely experienced pharmacist, his store on the corner of Mill and Madison streets expressing the most advanced methods of conducting such an enterprise. Since his graduation from the Chicago College of Pharmacy in 1886, Mr. Bradford has let no stone unturned to add to his professional information and usefulness, and he rejoices in the reputation of being one of the most practical and dependable men in his line in Livingston County. In December, 1881, he entered the employ of Caldwel!

Thomas Lytle Mary J. Lytle

Mr. Bradford was born in Monmouth, Ill., March 24, 1865, a son of Rev. David G. Bradford, and Sarah (McClaughry) Bradford. His home environment offered every incentive to honesty and industry, but his educational and general advantages were largely of his own making. He is a graduate of the Princeton Township High School, and by nature and inheritance is of a studious and inquiring mind. Early in life he became interested in Republican politics, and for years has been active in local affairs, his first appointment as Postmaster of Pontiac having occurred November 15, 1897. He was reappointed in 1901 and 1906, and his management of the affairs of Uncle Sam has met with gratifying appreciation, regardless of party affiliations. He has attended many State Conventions, and was a member of the Republican State Central committee in 1896 and 1900.

The marriage of Mr. Bradford and Hattie Schneider occurred in Pontiac October 11, 1887, and of their union there are four children: Harriet D., Bonita, Mary L., and Ralph F. Mr. Bradford is a prominent social factor in the community, and is a member of the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks, Modern Woodmen of America, and the Royal Arch Masons and Knights Templar. He is a genial and approachable gentleman, valuing courtesy, consideration and honesty in dealing with human kind, and founding his business and general standing upon worth while and imperishable qualities of heart and mind.

BRADY, Edward, who has steadily risen from the level of a poor and obscure man to that of a wealthy farmer, prominent in the locality of his residence in Livingston County, Ill., was born in Ireland, May 10, 1851. He is a son of Patrick and Ann (McMahon) Brady, natives of Ireland, where both parents spent the whole of their lives. Edward Brady, who was one of a family of thirteen children, emigrated to the United States in 1875, landing in New York City with $2.50 in his pocket, locating at Wenona, Marshall County, Ill., where he remained seven years. At the end of this period he moved to Livingston County, where he has since been successfully engaged in farming. Beginning without means and in a strange country, he advanced by slow degrees, through industry, perseverance and economy, to the possession of a handsome competency and to a condition of prominence and influence among his fellow townsmen. Besides his home farm, which is one of the best properties in this part of the country, he is the owner of a large tract of improved farming land in Nebraska, and is recognized as a very prosperous and substantial farmer.

In May. 1874, Mr. Brady was united in marriage with Margaret Day, who was born and reared in Camp Grove, Stark County, Ill, and their union resulted in eight children. Of these three sons and two daughters are still living, one son and one daughter being married. Politically, Mr. Brady is a Democrat and has held the office

Simon, a worthy and prosperous farmer, living in Rook's Creek Township, Livingston County, Ill., who, through rugged energy and steadfast perseverance has accumulated large landed possessions, was born in Germany, October 24, 1839, a son of Charles L. and Sophia (Drechmaister) Brinkmann, natives of Germany, who came to the United States in 1859, settling in Havana, Ill. The father was a farmer by occupation, died in 1863, and the mother in 1860. The former was a Democrat and a member of the Lutheran church. Simon Brinkmann received his education in the public schools of Germany, and accompanied his parents when they came to Illinois, where he followed farming on rented land until 1869. In that year he bought 160 acres of land in Rooks Creek Township, to which by successive purchases he has added, until he now owns 400 acres.

Mr. Brinkmann was joined in the bonds of matrimony, November 18, 1862, to Mary A. Uthmiller, born in Prussia, Germany, February 3, 1843, a daughter of Herman and Henrietta (Bulk) Uthmiller, natives of that country, who emigrated to the United States in 1850. Both parents are deceased, the father dying in 1896, the mother in 1891. Mr. and Mrs. Brinkmann have twelve children, of whom two died in infancy. Those still living are as follows: Sophia, born January-16, 1864; Louis, born December 21, 1865, married Margarette Crabb, they have three daughters and one son; Frederick, born April 13, 1867, is unmarried and lives in South Dakota; Henry, born September 21, 1871, married Frances Stridt, they reside in McLean County, Ill., and have one daughter; William, born May 22, 1874, married Belle Young, they reside in Rooks Creek Township, and have one daughter; Matilda, born March 24, 1878; Simon, born May 5, 1889, re- | sides on the home farm, and is unmarried; Mamie, born January 30, 1883; Anna, born De cember 5, 1886, and Lydia, born May 5, 1889. Anna is one of the teachers of Livingston County, and is very popular. Politically Mr. Brinkmann is identified with the Democratic party. He and his wife are members of the Lutheran church.

BROOKSHIER, Martin L., M.D., a rising young physician of Pontiac, Ill, whose efficiency in practice and faithful attention to the duties of his profession have already won for him an enviable reputation, was born in the town of Ruckerville, Clary County, Ky., January 12, 1878, He is a son of Achilles and Susan (Moreland) Brookshier, natives of that State. Martin Brookshier, the paternal grandfather, was a Pennsylvanian by birth, and his wife, Amanda (Cummings) Brookshier, was of Irish extraction. They were pioneer settlers of Clark County, Ky., where their closing years were spent. They were the parents of thirteen children, eleven of whom reached years of maturity. Of this family, seven sons and one daughter are still living. On the maternal side, the grandparents, George and Sallie M. (Roberson) Moreland, were born in Pennsylvania, and settled in Clark County, Ky.. at an early period. Grandfather Moreland is deceased, but at the present writing his widow is still living, and on February 19, 1907, was one hundred years of age, having lived on the same farm more than sixty years.

Achilles Brookshier, the father, was educated at Winchester, Clark County, Ky., and taught school in that vicinity. He studied law and subsequently applied himself to farming. In 1896 he moved to Gainesville, Tex., where he was killed in June of that year in a runaway accident. In politics he was a Democrat. He was a member of the Baptist church, his widow, who still survives him, residing at Normal, McLean County, Il., being a communicant of the Christian church. Five sons and two daughters were the offspring of their union, all of whom are living.

Martin L. Brookshier was reared on a farm, and attended the public and high schools of his native county. When not quite seventeen years old he left Kentucky, going to Decatur, Ill., where he arrived in October, 1894. He was a pupil in Green Academy at Taylorville, Ill., and afterwards in Marion Academy, Marion, Ind., working his way through these schools. He then went to Willis Springs, Mo., where he took a preparatory course in medicine and, in the spring of 1897, located in Pontiac, IN., and there worked two and a half years in the shoe factory. In 1899, he entered the Barnes Medical School, of St. Louis, from which he was graduated in May, 1903, beginning the practice of medicine at Graymont, Livingston County, Ill, the same year. After remaining there nineteen months, he changed his location to Pontiac, where he has since acquired a large practice. Dr. Brookshier is a member of the American Medical Association, the Illinois State Medical Society, and the Livingston County Medical Society. The residence occupied by him, and in which he maintains his office, is his own property.

On September 7, 1904, Dr. Brookshier was united in marriage with Josephine Beier, of Bloomington, a daughter H. J. and Rickie (Cruse) Beier, natives of Germany. One son has re sulted from this union, Middle J., born June 14, 1905. 3 . In politics, Dr. Brookshier is a Republican. Fraternally he is affiliated with the K. of P.; the I. O. O. F., Pontiac Lodge No. 262; the American Home Circle, the Yeomen, and Fraternal Tribune, and is Examiner for a number of Insurance Companies.

BROWN, Albert, who has been identified with the farming interests of Avoca Township, Livingston County, for a number of years, and has done more than his share in advancing the best interests of his community, was born in Eppards Point Township, Livingston County, May 31, 1869, a son of Jacob and Rosanna (Ackerman) Brown. both of whom were natives of Wurtemburg, Germany. In Germany the name was spelled Braun, but after the father located in America he changed it to Brown. Rosanna

Ackerman came to New York State, and in 1850 she was followed by Jacob Brown, who there married her and in 1864 they removed to Fairbury, Ill., where they followed farming in Eppards Point Township. Seven children were born to them: Charles, who died in infancy; John, died in 1903; William, a farmer in McLean County, Ill.;Augusta, died in infancy; Albert G.; Sophia, married Rudolph Urljers, of Fairbury, Ill.; Emma, married Campbell Fleming of Topeka, Kan. The mother died July 29, 1902, and the father is making his home with his son, Albert G. Brown.

When Albert Brown was a small boy, his father moved to what is known as the Brown School District, and the lad attended the district school and worked on the farm, remaining at home until he was twenty-four years old, when he rented the farm in 1893. It is a very fine property of a hundred acres in Avoca Township. Section 31, which he has bought from the other heirs, owning it since 1907. He has made many improvements upon it and is making a specialty of high grade stock, being devoted to his work in which he has been very successful.

On November 13, 1894, Mr, Brown was married to Miss Alzina Clay, born May 25, 1875, in Eureka, Woodford County, Ill., a daughter of John and Mahala (Carroll) Clay. Mrs. Clay, two sisters and one brother of Mrs. Brown were killed in the terrible Chatsworth wreck, August 10, 1887, and Mr. Clay died when Mrs. Brown was a baby, and she consequently has no recollection of him. But two of the once happy family are now living - Mrs. Brown and her sister Ida, wife of L. H. Van Alashine, a resident of Eureka, Il. Mrs. Van Alashine has three children: Glenn, Ruth and Lois. Mr. and Mrs. Brown have had these children: Mabel, born December 19, 1895; Della. born November 23, 1898, died December 4, 1898, and Ralph, born April 23, 1902. In politics Mr. Brown is a Republican and for a number of years has been a member of the School Board. While he and his family are not members of any church, they have always been liberal in their support of churches and lend their influence towards all measures tending to be of benefit to the community generally.

BROWN, John T. - Far removed from the tragic scenes and vivid memories of the Civil War, too many are prone to forget the heavy debt of gratitude the country owes the brave men who defended the Union in its darkest days and made it possible to overcome sedition and bring about the present state of united prosperity. As long, however, as we have with us the veterans of that mighty struggle, we are reminded of this debt and recognize the fact that too much credit cannot be given to them. Among those who bravely responded to' the call of patriotism in the early sixties is John T. Brown, a farmer on Section 8, Indian Grove Township, who was born in Woodford County May 10, 1846, a son of Philip M. and Fannie (Gaddis) Brown.

and his wife was born in Indiana. He was brought by his parents to Illinois when a lad, and they settled in Woodford County, where he grew to manhood and met his wife who had also been brought to the same county by her parents. After marriage, the young people settled on a farm in Woodford County. Their children were as follows: Lydia A., who married William Phillips, both now deceased; Silas, who died in infancy; John T.; Mary C., who married John Robeson of Secor, Woodford Counly; Amos W, for twenty years Marshal of Fairbury; Philip M. J., who died in infancy; Andrew A., a resident of Pontiac; Dulcena, who married Samuel Cupps of Iroquois County; Ardenia, widow of Isaac Schearl, residing in Iroquois County; Fannie, who married Albert A. Phillips, a resident of California; Leslie E., a farmer of Iroquois County; Minnie, whe married Willis Real, a farmer of Woodford County.

Philip M. Brown followed farming in Woodford County until about 1870, when he removed to Iroquois County where he lived until his death in 1895. After the death of Mr. Brown his widow returned' to her daughter, Mrs. Robeson, and died there September 11, 1905. Both she and her husband were devout members of the Christian church for many years, and were very active in its work in both Woodford and Iroquois County. In politics he was a Democrat, but took wood, Iroquois County, he was postmaster and, in that office, showed the same regard for the public interest which has characterized his every action and won him the respect of his fellowcitizens.

The early life of John Y. Brown was spent in White Oak Grove, Woodford County, where be was born, but in 1861 the elder Mr. Brown sold the homestead and removed to Panther Creek Township and John, when only sixteen years old, enlisted in Company A, Eighty-sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, for three years or during the war, at Eureka. Ill. He was mustered into service at Peoria, August 27, 1862, and the regiment was organized there and sent direct to Louisville, Ky. When he reached Louisville he was taken sick and sent home. Exposure resulted in lung fever and for three months he was in a critical condition, but as soon as he recovered he rejoined his regiment, which took part in the battles of Perryville, Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge, Buzzard's Roost, Resaca, and at Rome, Ga. Misfortune attended this brave "soldier, for he was seriously wounded while in line of battle May 17, 1864, and lay ill in the hospital until the order was issued tnat the wounded soldiers from Illinois should be sent to Quincy, Ill. As soon as well enough he wanted to return to his regiment, but instead was sent to Rock Island and placed on guard duty at the military prison there, while his regiment was sent south and took part in many engagements in that region, being finally mustered out at Washington, D. C., June 6, 1865. Mr. Brown continued in service until July, 1865, and was then honorably discharged. Like many «others,

On January 14, 1866, the returned hero married Ellen M. Stewart who had, during the days when his life was constantly in peril, watched and prayed for her soldier Jover. She was born in Woodford County, November 18, 1846, a daughter of Henry and Lucinda (Swarens) Stewart, natives of West Virginia and Indiana, respectively. Both had been brought to Woodford County by their parents at an early date. Here they met and were married and made their home until 1893, when they retired to Fairbury and made their home with Mrs. Brown, the father dying June 18, 1895, and the mother in January, 1897. Of the eleven children born to Mr, and Mrs. Stewart but four are now living: Mrs. Brown; John D. of Mound City, Kan.; Dora A. who married Amos Brown of Fairbury; Charles L. of Washburn, Ul. Those deceased are: Sarah C. died at the age of nine years; Eli, a member of Company A, Eighty-sixth Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry, was captured and sent to Andersonville for six months and died on his way home after being exchanged, at Annapolis, Md.; Mary died in infancy; Lewis C. died at the age of nineteen; Susan, deceased, married David Connors who is also deceased, and they had two children - Dora C. and Lilly A.; Henry L. died in 1888; Martha, deceased, married Gabe Richards.

After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Brown rented a farm from the elder Mr. Brown, but in 1888 he sold his stock, and the following year rented the homestead. Still later he removed to Linn County, Kas., where he remained until 1875, when he returned to Woodford County. In 1877 he came to Livingston County and located upon rented land on Cropsy Ridge. Two years later he moved to the vicinity of McDowell in Avoca Township, and in 1884 rented 162 acres in the southwest quarter of Section 8, and for twelve years successfully operated that farm, and in 1896 moved to the northeast quarter of Section 8, Indian Grove Township, where for the past thirteen years they have resided. Mr. Brown is a good farmer and thoroughly understands his business. He gives entire satisfaction to the owner of the property and his stock and implements are very valuable.

Mr. and Mrs. Brown have these children: Etta May, born June 17, 1868, died November 10, 1869; Amos L., born June 20, 1872, in Linn County, Kan., married Jennie Garmer, has two sons - Clarence L., born September 27, 1894, and John E., born August 27, 1899, and he is a farmer near his father; Ira T., born in Linn County, Kan., October 12, 1874, married Nellie Danforth, has one child - Lura M., born July 17, 1899, is a farmer in Indian Grove Township. For the past twenty years Mr. Brown has been a Director of School District No. 133, Indian Grove Township, and has always been active in educational and church work, he and his wife belonging to the Christian church. He and his wife have reared their children to be honorable, God-fearing men and are justly regarded as