Livingston County, Illinois - Chapter with an unread heading (no. 25 of those read), 1909 (part 9 of 17)

When only one year of age Reason McCann John was taken from his native State of Pennsylvania to Wood County, W. Va., where as soon as old enough he was sent to a subscription school. In 1853 the family moved to Marietta, Ohio, where for four years he attended the graded schools, and would have graduated from the grammar school in June, 1857, had the family not moved to Mattoon, Ill., in May of that year. At the age of thirteen years he ran away from home and began to "paddle his own canoe." In the fall of 1863 he entered Hedding College at Abingdon, Ill., and in 1866-67 was a student in Wesleyan College, Bloomington, his final schooling being obtained during the summer term of 1868 in the State Normal University at Normal, Il. From 1866 until 1873 he taught school in McLean and Livingston Counties, and in April of the latter year located permanently at Pontiac, his present home. His first knowledge of business was obtained during the fall and winter of 1870, while working in the County Clerk's Office. When he entered the office of Olney & Fellows, on May 1, 1873, at twenty-nine years of age, he was practically ignorant of all business methods, having never had an opportunity to obtain a business training, yet notwithstanding that handicap he has won success and now owns 800 acres of first-class Illinois land, worth not less than $200 per acre, besides which he owns other valuable property.

From May 1, 1875, to May 1, 1905, Mr. John was actively engaged in the excursion business, making loans, perfecting titles and buying and selling real estate. During 1905 and 1906 he owned a controlling interest in the Pontiac Sentinel Publishing Company, and for one year edited and published the Daily and Weekly Sentinel. Of that work he says that, while it afforded him considerable amusement, it was not a profitable investment. In the fall of 1894 he bought in Lee and Ogle Counties, Ill.. for James E. Morrow, Curtis J. Judd and himself jointly, 2,560 acres of land, which the following year he developed by cutting a ditch for an: outlet ninety-five hundred feet long, six feet deep, and from ten to twelve feet wide, putting in one hundred miles of tile, and otherwise improving the land. Bight hundred and forty acres were put under the plow for the first time and 245 acres were planted in corn, all of which he personally directed. At the same time he erected houses, barns and corncribs on the land and made other necessary improvements, so that at the harvesting of the large corn crop adequate facilities had been prepared for the same. Many of the leading business men of Rochelle, Ill., told him that they considered his enterprise was worth one-half million dollars to the community.

Frank O. Evers, under the firm title of John Evers. At another time, under the title of Wash & John, he had James R. Wash as a partner. Next, the title became John & Grandy, and then R, M. John & Co., the firm consisting of D. B. Hayden and R. M. John. With these various partners he was engaged in the abstract, realestate, loan, insurance and excursion business. During 1902 he organized the John-Peaslee Shoe Company, and erected the fine factory building now occupied by The A. M. Legg Shoe Company of Pontiac. In this enterprise he invested $50,- 000 in cash, but it did not bring adequate returns, and he sold his interest after it had been consolidated with the Pontiac Shoe Manufacturing Company, a prosperous concern, that has proved to be a valuable acquisition to Pontiac. He was President of the John-Peaslee Shoe Company and acted as Chairman of the Building Committee.

As early as 1870 Mr. John was made a Mason in the Lexington (Ill.) Blue Lodge, from which he was demitted in 1873, and joined Pontiac Lodge No. 294, A. F. A. Mm. For years he has been a member of T. Lyle Dickey Post, G. A. R., at Pontiac. In politics he always has been stanch in his allegiance to the principles of the Republican party. Under the Administration of Gov. Joseph W. Fifer, he was appointed local Trustee of the Board of Managers of the Illinois State Reform School, and was elected President of the Board. Under the orders of the Governor he visited many of the penal and reformatory institutions of the country, and thus gained a broad knowledge of such concerns and the best methods of conducting them. His life has been one of such intense activity that he has had no leisure for participation in social events. In youth he ever bore in mind that in old age he would need shelter, food and raiment, and he labored to provide for that event, having a horror of being dependent. Indefatigable energy has brought a competency well deserved. Sharing with him in the esteem of the community is his wife, formerly Mary Nelson, whom he married at Pontiac, April 23, 1873, and who now, in their pleasant quarters at Pheenix Hotel, is enjoying the comforts accumulated by years of economy, industry and judicious management on their part, and with him holds the warm regard of a host of personal friends. ;

JOHNSON, Benjamin R. - The business career of the late Mr. Johnson affords an excellent illustration of what can be accomplished by one who possesses innate ability for business enterprises, Beginning in 1869 as a farmer in Esmen Township, Mr. Johnson found that this locality was not suited for his purpose, so the following year he removed to the vicinity of Fairbury. Two years later he operated a farm on Section 9, Esmen Township. but all this time he realized that his inclination pointed toward a different calling. In March, 1872, he came to Cornell and associated himself in the mercantile business with K. Heckman, and thus continued for a year when he sold his interest to Mr. Heckman. Mr. Johnson then started a similar business with his brother-in-law, S. M. Husted. This association existed amicably and profitably for seven years, after which Mr. Johnson bought the entire business and conducted it alone for five years. He then sold a half interest to E. A. Jamison, and two years later withdrew from his business and, with John Day, began handling cattle and hogs. Two years later he became interested in the same business with S. B. Miner, and this association continued until 1901, when Mr. Johnson withdrew.

In the mean time, Mr. Johnson and his two eldest sons, Frank and William R., formed a copartnership known as B. R. Johnson & Sons, and on September 1st, 1899, started the Bank of Cornell with B. R. Johnson as President and William R. Johnson as Cashier. At this time brank Johnson was engaged in the stock business, but in June, 1900, the firm of B. R. Johnson & Sons bought the lumber business from the estate of D. M. Brown and Frank became manager. While Mr. B. R. Johnson had other business interests, from this time on his time and energy were largely given to the building up of the two business enterprises of which he was the founder. Through close attention to his business and through untiring energy he was able, in the few remaining years of his life, to establish his bank and lumber yard among the leading business institutions of Livingston County. As a banker his dignified, conseryative policy won for his concern the confidence and patronage of a large number of people, and his ideas continue to be carried out by his successors.

While never an office seeker, Mr. Johnson was frequently called upon by the community to enter into public work and, during his active career, held a number of public offices and positions of trust, He seryed as a member and as President of the Board of Trustees of the Village of Cornell a number of terms, and was for six years Supervisor from Amity Township, being known on the Board of Supervisors as the Prohibition member. Fora number of years he was Village and School Treasurer. He was also Treasurer of the Pontiac Mutual County Fire Insurance Company, and of the Tuesburg Land Company of La Porte, indiana. In addition to the Bank and Lumber Yard, Mr. Johnson owned about 300 acres of land in Livingston County ; also land in Colorado and Indiana.

While ever attentive to his own business fairs, he was a man whose unselfish devotion to the interests confided to his care was a lasting benefit to those in any way associated with him, while his example contributed to their spiritual advancement. In fact, his conduct in all the relations of life bespoke the devout Christian.

On November 23rd, 1871, Mr. Johnson married Sarah E. Husted, who was born in Franklin County, Indiana, November 23rd, 1849, a daughter of William and Rachel W. (Miller-Whitney) Husted, natives of Bridgeton, N. J. At the time of her marriage to Mr. Husted, the mother of Mrs. Johnson was a Mrs. Whitney. Bight chil- dren were born to Mr. and Mrs. Johnson: Estella, born September 27th, 1872, died August 14th, 1879; Franklin, born January 3rd, 1876, is President of the Farmers State Savings Bank of Cornell, and on March 29th, 1889, married Nellie Brown, daughter of D. M, Brown of Cornell ; they have a family of seven children: Vera Bernice, Harold Franklin, Nellie Marie, Stella Brown, Benjamin Richard, Meredith William and Margaret Esther; William R., born December 9th, 1878, is a Methodist Missionary at Nan Chang, China; on September 12th, 1906, he married Ina L. Buswell of Polo, Illinois, and they have one child, William Buswell ; Sidney E., born May 27th, 1881, is Cashier of the Farmers State Savings Bank of Cornell, and on December 25, one child John Howard; Harry, born November 18, 1883, is Assistant Cashier of the Bank in which his brothers are interested, and the manager of the Lumber Yard in Cornell; Marcina, born January 28th, 1886; Edward Amer, born January 4th, 1889, and Lucille, born March 3rd, 1892. Harry, Marcinda, Edward Amer and Lucille are living at home with their mother,

Mr. Johnson was a very prominent Methodist, acting as Trustee, Steward and District Steward of the Church, and for many years he was Superintendent of the Sunday School. He died in Clermont, Florida, where he had gone in search of health. His funeral, held Friday afternoon, March 6th, 1908, at the Methodist church of Cornell, was in charge of the pastor, the Rev. G. P. Snedaker; while former pastors assisted. In spite of the fact that the roads were in very bad condition, the old neighbors and friends of the family came in a body, and the large church edifice was too small to hold them all. The impressive services were most affecting, and the sermon held him up as the faithful Christian, the devoted husband and father and exemplary citizen.

JOHNSON, Edden Morris. - As with retrospective vision he reflects upon the progress made by Pontiac during the last several decades, Mr. Johnson might assert with truth, "All of which I saw, and part of which I was." Many have been the interests demanding his attention during the long period of his professional and business identification with Pontiac. Three times the highest office within the gift of the city, that of Mayor, has been conferred upon him, Other positions of official trust and responsibility have come to him without solicitation. As the head of important business enterprises, as a journalist of note, as banker, attorney and property-owner, he has wielded a large influence upon the highest development of his town and county, and has left the impress of his personality upon local history.

Monroe County, W. Va., is Mr. Johnson's native place, and May 11, 1845, the date of his birth. His parents, Morris and Minerva E. (Ellis) Johnson, were natives of this same county, the former being a son of Jacob John- son of West Virginia, and the mother being a daughter of Colonel William Elis, an officer in the Mexican War. After having conducted a mercantile business in West Virginia for some years, in 1856 Morris Johnson moved to Ilinois, and after a few months spent near Bloomington, came to Pontiac, where he resumed merchantile business and also bought and sold farm lands, remaining here until his death in 1876. He is survived by his wife, who at the age of eighty-three years (in 1908) is still a resident of Pontiac.

Primarily educated in public schools, Edden Morris Johnson afterward enjoyed the best college advantages, For one year he attended Allegany college in Greenbrier County, W. Va. In versity at Bloomington, Ill., and later he took the law course in the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor. At the age of twenty-four years he began the practice of the law at Pontiac, where he has since made his home. During 1871 he purchased the "Free Trader," which as the organ of the Democratic party wielded a growing influence in the community in the ensuing years. The logical reasoning faculties of its founder were apparent in its editorial columns, and his arguments concerning national issues were of great benefit to the party locally. The paper was continued under the same management until July, 1907, when Mr. Johnson and his partner disposed of the plant and the printing business, since which time he has devoted his attention to the oversight of his various farms and other business interests, the latter including the presidency of the Illinois State Savings Bank of Pontiac, the presidency of the Modern Shoe Company, and of the Livingston County Building and Loan Association.

The marriage of Mr. Johnson took place December 8, 1869, by which he was united with Caroline M. Saxton, a cousin of Mrs. McKinley and a daughter of James Saxton, of Huntingdon, Pa. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson have two daughters: Mary E., born January 19, 1885, and Beulah, born May 28, 1886, and now a student in Monticello seminary at Godfrey, Il. The family are identified with the Methodist Episcopal church of Pontiac, in which Mr. Johnson has officiated as a trustee for several years. Deeply interested in educational affairs, he has been helpful in the promotion of local schoo) interests through his services as President of the School Board. In recognition of his prominence in the Democratic party, he has been chosen as delegate to State and National Conventions of that party. Im addition to holding the office of mayor, as before mentioned, he has been Supervisor of the township for two terms, frequently has been chosen Alderman from his ward, and for four years acted as a Trustee of the Soldiers' Orphaus' Home at Normal. In fraternal relations he holds membership with the Masons and the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks.

born on a farm in Oswego County. N. Y., his parents being natives of Vermont, who removed to New York' State soon after the War of 1812. The son, Darius, for a time attended school in winter and drove a canal-boat on the Brie Canal in summer, later engaged in 'teaching, thus earning means which enabled him to take a course in Castleton (Vt.) Medical College, from which he graduated in 1852. In 1853, he came to Illinois, locating in Pontiac, where he engaged in practice, being one of the first physicians to locate in that city. Still later he took courses in, and graduated from the Albany (N. Y.) and Louisville (Ky.) Medical Colleges. In 1862 he entered the service of the Government for the Civil War, being commissioned as Assistant Surgeon of the One Hundred and Twenty-ninth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, from which he was soon after promoted to the rank of Surgeon. and took part under the command of Gen. Sherman in the "March to the Sea," being finally mustered out at Savannah, Ga., on account of disability. Then returning home he resumed practice in Pontiac, which he continued until his death, November 17, 1877. A successful practitioner in his profession, he was a Republican in politics, and at the time of his death occupied the position of Trustee of the University of Illinois by appointment of the Governor.

The maiden name of the wife of Dr. Darius Johnson was Rebecca Wood, who was born in Cayuga County, N. Y., July 29, 1833, her father being a native of Virginia and her mother of New York. She was married to Dr. Johnson, July 5, 1854, and they arrived in Pontiac July 17th of the same year, where Dr. Johnson had located one year previously. Here Mrs. Johnson has lived continuously ever since, occupying the same house for fifty-two years, and where at an early day she was actively engaged in temperance work. Three children were born to Dr. and Mrs. Darius Johnson, namely: Leander, who died in 1894; Fordyce B., and Geraldine. now Mrs. Jesse Turner, of Independence, Mo,

Fordyce B. Johnson, the second son of this family and subject of this sketch, was born in Pontiac, Ill., September 9, 1860, received his education in the public schools of that city and, in 1876, entered the office of the Pontiac Sentinel to learn the printer's trade. Two years later he went to Peoria, where he remained until 1883, when he removed to Omaha, Neb., where he worked as a compositor and reporter in the office of the Omaha World-Herald, later being similarly employed in Kansas City, Sioux City, St. Paul, Milwaukee, Chicago. New York and elsewhere. In 1894 he returned to Pontiac and has since been employed at different times as compositor, reporter and city editor on various papers, at present being connected with the Pontiac Free Trader and Observer as city editor.

Mary E. Pricer

child, Helen May, born June 13, 1904, By a former marriage there were two sons: Gerald Fordyce Johnson, born February 1, 1884, and George N. Johnson, born March 8, 1887, both of whom reside in Chicago. While not a member of any secret society or any church, Mr. Johnson is President of the "Sons of Pontiac," is a Democrat in politics, and in his business life has always worked in some newspaper oflice, except while employed for two years in the Pontiac Postoffice. A man of genial character and affable manners, he enjoys the good will of a large circle of friends,

JOHNSTON, Ramy, a prominent citizen of Graymont, Livingston County, Il., who is successfully engaged in the real estate line, and is recognized as a man of broad information and superior business qualifications, was born in Adams County, Ohio, January 9, 1851, a son of Mitchell and Lydia (Teachenor) Johnston. His parents were natives of that State, the father born in Brown County, and the mother in Adams County. The paternal grandparents, John and Sarah (Parker) Johnston, were natives of Virginia and Pennsylvania, respectively. At an early period they moved to Ohio, and in 1862 to Marshall County, Ill., where the grandfather Johnston passed the closing years of his life. Grandmother Johnston died in Ohio, when nearly one hundred years of age. On the maternal side, the grandfather was Isaac Teachenor, the maiden name of whose wife was Sallie Stivers. They were among the pioneer settlers of Adams County, Ohio, and there spent the whole of their lives. Mitchell Johnston was reared on a farm, and educated in the common schools. By occupation, he was a farmer, and also a school teacher. Politically, he was a Republican, and in fraternal circles, was identified with the A, F. A. M. His religious connection was with the Methodist church, to which his wife also belonged. They reared a family of seven children, one of whom is deceased. In 1875, they located in Pontiac, Ill., where they resided two years, when they moved to Fredonia, Kan., where they died. Ramy Johnston received education partly in the common schools of Ohio, and at the age of fifteen years went to Missouri with his parents, and continued his school attendance there. After coming to Livingston County, Ill., in 1876, he was engaged in teaching in Graymont and its vicinity for ten years, and for some time followed farming.there. He built the first house (except the section house) in Graymont, and now lives in the same building. In Graymont, during recent years, he has dealt. in live-stock as well as real estate, but at present confines his attention to the latter, his transactions being extensive and profitable.

On February 10, 1875, Mr. Johnston was married to Laura Stretch, a native of Ohio and daughter of William and Elizabeth (Lupton) Stretch. The parents of Mrs. Johnston moved from Ohio to Missouri, where her father died June 30, 1905, her mother having passed away June 30, 1893, To Mr. and Mrs. Johnston were born four children, as follows: an infant, deceased; Emma, Marion, and Clarence. Enma, who was educated in the public schools, is the wife of C. E. Russell, of Paxton, Tl., and has five children: Caro, Carl, Viola, Clark, and an infant unnamed. Marion married Lucia Marton, of Pontiac, Ill,; and Clarence is a conductor on the Interurban Electric Railway running out of Pontiac. The last two also received a common-school education.

In politics, Mr. Johnston is a Republican and has taken a leading part in local affairs, He has served as Township Clerk ten years; School Treasurer, ten years; and Assessor, four years. For twenty years, he has acted in the capacity of County Central Committeeman of his party. His experience as a Notary Public covers a period of twenty-five years. In fraternal circles, he is identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Pontiac Lodge, No. 262, of which he has been a member since 1883.

JONES, Edwin B., member of the firm of E. B. Jones & Bro., and Postmaster of Manville, IN., is a man thoroughly conversant with all the details of his several enterprises, and his familiarity with everything connected with them has given him a high standing in Livingston County. Mr. Jones was born at Wenona, Ill., September 26, 1867, his brother and partner, Lewis L. Jones, being born at the same place, June 12, 1869. They are sons of Z. R. and Julia (Stitt) Jones, the former a native of Ohio, who was married in Wenona, Ill, and now lives at Cornell, Ill.

The educational training of Edwin B. Jones began in the district schools in Newtown Township, Livingston County, and after its completion he taught school for three years in Newtown and Reading Townships. In 1890 he went to Streator, Ill., and there purchased an interest in the grain and feed business. This he operated for about a year, when in 1891 he sold out and returned to his former home. For the following nine years he was engaged with his father in the grain business at Smithdale, but on December 1, 1900, bought the stock of Leonard & Son, general merchants of Manville, IM. This business he continued until 1902, when his brother, Lewis L. Jones, purchased an interest, and the present firm was organized. The partners then bought the stock of A. N. McCord, and consolidated the two concerns. A stock of shelf hardware, dry-goods, groceries, hats, caps, boots, shoes, clothing and farm implements is carried, aggregating $5,000, and all the goods are thoroughly up-to-date and embody the latest ideas in the several lines. As they do so large a business, and have such extensive connections, and buy for cash, they are enabled to offer prices that are particularly inviting. The training Mr. Jones has enjoyed, and the ability he possesses enables him to attend to the various duties of his business with dispatch and during the years he has been in Manville, he has made an enviable reputation as a business man. As Postmaster, he discharged his duties with credit

Edwin B. Jones was married September 23, 1902, to Miss Joan Cornell, who was born in Cornell, Ill., a daughter of H. M. Cornell. Mr. and Mrs. Jones have two sons: Edwin B., born July 24, 1904, and Marshall, born June 24, 1906. Mr. Jones was appointed Postmaster in 1901, and in 1904 a Rural Free Delivery route was established and a large mail is sent out from his office each day. Fratemally, he is a member of the Masonic order of Cornell, 111., and is also a member of the Modern Woodmen of America and Yeoman of Manville. A very active Republican, Mr. Jones has been a member of the Republican County Central Committee for ten or twelve years. In all their dealings, the Jones Brothers maintain a reputation for strictness, integrity and fair dealing, and their opinion in financial and commercial matters of any nature carry weight with their fellow townsmen.

JONES, Melvin N. - It would be difficult to induce any farmer, fortunate enough to be located in the great Corn Belt, to admit that he did not inhabit the Garden Spot of the World, for within its confines lie some of the very best farms in the country, a fact that has been largely instrumental in making Illinois one of the leading States of the Union. Melvin N. Jones of Section 26, Avoca Township, Livingston County, is one of the progressive farmers of his locality, having been born in Johnson County, Ind., November 15, 1859, a son of Thomas J. and Minerva J. (Hosier) Jones, both natives of Johnson County, Ind., where they were reared, married and settled on a farm in Whitesville, Ind., where their seven children were born, namely: Melvin N.; Fanny, wife of A. J. McCrury, a mechanic residing at Ladoga, Ind., and they have three children - Everett, Chester and Claire; Horatio S., married a Miss Lizzie Clifford, and resides at Whitesville; Carrie, wife of George Redenbaugh, a resident of Montezuma, Ind., and they have six children; Aurelius, married Jennie Beckett and they have two children - Ernest and Katie - and live at Linnsburg, Ind.; Effie, wife of William Van Schoit, who has one child, Russell, her husband being a farmer of Whitesville, Ind.; Cordelia, wife of Bert Byers, a farmer near Whitesville, having two children - Nell and Dell. Mr. Thomas Jones has always been prominent in his community and active in the councils of the Democratic party, and has often been called upon to hold office. In religious matters he and his wife are members of the Methodist church.

Melvin N. Jones received a good common school education and was reared to work on the farm. As he looks back he can scarcely comprehend how they were able to accomplish so much with the crude machinery so different from the labor-saving devices of today. Remaining at home until he was twenty-five, about 1883 he went to State Line. Ind., and took charge of a tile factory, which he managed for ten years, making it one of the most successful plants of its kind in Indiana. In 1893 he came to Livingston County to take charge of a tile factory owned by M. M. Spence, south of Fairbury, with whom he continued for three years, but about 1896 resigned this position te rent a farm known as the F. M. Eads farm, in Belle Prairie Township, consisting of 193 acres, and then realized the value of his experiences on the homestead. Mr. Jones was very successful and, in 1908, took charge of the Hugh Robinson farm on Section 26, Avoca Township, containing 225 acres, all under cultivation. Under his able management there is no doubt that the farm will proye productive. Mr. Jones is extensively engaged in breeding Poland-China hogs and Hampshire Down sheep, having a flock of 20 head of the latter. Through his energy, thrift and capacity for turning out work, Mr. Jones has won fullest confidence and respect from all with whom he is brought in contact,

On December 30, 1885, Mr. Jones was united in marriage with Miss Letitia Alice Myers, born in Hooveysburg, Ind., September 15, 1867, a daughter of the Rev. John C. Myers and Cornelia (Spencer) Myers, natives of Indiana. For forty years Mr. Myers was a popular minister of the Christian church, and at the time of his death was a resident of State Line, Ind. His widow now resides at Danville, Tl. Mr. and Mrs, Jones have had the following children: Arthur L., born. in State Line, October 15, 1886, a telegrapher and station agent at Lyons, Miss.; Lawrence M., born in State Line, March TE; 1889 : Charles J., born in State Line, August 12, 1891; Mable Grace, born in Belle Prairie Township, August 21, 1894; Wilbur O., born in Belle Prairie Township, February 12, 1902; Don and Dora, twins, born May 25, 1906, in Belle Prairie. Mr. and Mrs. Jones are active members of the Christian church of Fairbury. In 1884 Mr. Jones joined the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, has filled all its chairs, and also belongs to the Encampment. He was sent as delegate to the Grand Lodge in 1887, and the Encampment in 1888 at State Line A lifelong Democrat, Mr. Jones served as Tax Collector of Belle Prairie Township for two years. He feels a deep interest in all reform movements and takes an active part in measures looking to the development and advancement of the community with which he is connected.

JOOST, Henry. - In Henry Joost were emembodied those substantial traits which assure the immigrating German hearty welcome to American shores, and make him a dependable factor in practically all localities, and in all lines of human endeavor. Mr. Joost was born in Hanover, Northern Germany, June 15, 1857. and in his native land attended the kindergarten school for a short time, in 1865, when about seven years old, coming to America with his parents, Henry and Caroline (Rosa) Joost, and locating in LaSalle County, Ill. Two years later the buying the same amount of land. To this he later added thirty-five acres, and in 1898 moved to a 20-acre farm adjoining Dwight on the southwest, where his death occurred in 1901. He had long been a widower, his wife having joined the silent majority in 1884.

From his fourteenth to his sixteenth year Henry Joost lived with an uncle in New York City, and during that time attended the public schools, finally in 1873 coming west to join his parents in Livingston County. October 15, 1882, he was united in marriage to Catherine Racher, who was born in Good Farm Township, Grundy County, Ill., January 19, 1856, a daughter of Jacob and Mary (Ehemann) Racher, natives of Bavaria, Germany, born June 29, 1820, and May 16, 1822, respectively. Mr. Racher came to Ilinois in 1849 and his future wife arrived the following year, the marriage ceremony being performed in November, 1850, in Chicago. For a year and a half the young people lived in Calhoun County, this State, then bought from the Government an 80-acre tract of land in Grundy County, paying for it $1.25 an acre. This small farm Mr. Racher improved and added to until he owned 400 acres of valuable and highly improved land. His death occurred August 31, 1888, being survived by his widow, who lived with her son John for fifteen years, and now makes her home with Mrs. Joost, her daughter.

For two years after his marriage Mr. Joost lived on his father's farm, when he bought the property outright, consisting at that time of 240 acres, to which he added forty acres. In February, 1899, he bought and moved to a 191-acre tract adjoining Dwight on the northwest, and here his death occurred September 1, 1899. He is buried in Oaklawn Cemetery. The family continued to live on the farm two years, when his widow bought five acres of land east of Dwight, built thereon a large modern house, and lives there with her five bright and interesting children. This home has ten rooms, is equipped with furnace, hot and cold water, bath-room and electric lighting. and is furnished throughout in comfortable and even luxurious fashion, Of the children in the family, Dora M., born June 6, 1886, is employed in the First National Bank of Dwight; Henry G. J., born June 15, 1889; John G. C., born March 21, 1892; George H. J.. born February 23, 1895, and Ada E. A., born January 1, 1898. Mr. Jost was a Lutheran in religion, and in politics was a Democrat. In no sense an office-seeker, he yet filled many local offices of trust. including that of School Director of Nevada Township for nine years. He was an enterprising and public-spirited farmer, an obliging and dependable neighbor, and in his family was the soul of kindness and consideration.

JUDD, Curtis Judson, the efficient and widely known Secretary and Treasurer of the Leslie E. Keeley Company, of Dwight, Livingston County, Ill., and identified in prominent official capacities, and as a large stockholder, with a number of the principal banking institutions and commercial enterprises in various parts of the State, was born at Otis, Mass., May 15, 1840. His parents were Judson and Corinthia A. (Dorman) Judd, the former born in Monterey, Mass., in 1819, and the latter in Tolland, Conn., in 1821, The Judd family is of English derivation, and its first representative in this country settled in Cambridge, Mass., in 1634. Oliver Judd, grandfather of Curtis J., was a prosperous farmer in Berkshire County, Mass., and a member of the Legislature in 1836 and 1837. Judson Judd was a physician by profession. He was a graduate of Berkshire Medical College, Pittsfield, Mass. Dr. Judd died at Lee, Mass., in 1860, and his wife passed away in Pittsfield, Mass., in 1896.

In youth, Curtis J. Judd attended the common schools in South Lee, Mass., and afterwards, the Lee High School. Subsequently, he became a pupil in the Canning School at Stockbridge, Mass., and still later, in Bryant, Stratton & Packard's Business College in New York City, from which he was graduated in 1861. On completing his studies he located in Dwight, Ill, as clerk for David McWilliams until June, 1862. He then enlisted in Company B, One Hundred Twenty-ninth Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry, being mustered in at Pontiac, Ill., on September Sth of that year. His regiment was attached to the First Brigade, Third Division, Twentieth Army Corps, commanded by Gen. Benjamin Harrison, afterwards President of the United States. With Gen. Sherman they went through to the sea, taking part in the battles of Resaca, Peach Tree Creek, Averysboro, Columbia and Savannah, besides many of the skirmishes and minor engagements of Sherman's campaign, and being mustered out on June 8, 1865. A year after his enlistment he was promoted to be Sergeant-Major, and as such served until his honorable discharge. At the close of the war he was appointed auditor of military telegraph lines, with headquarters at New Orleans, his district including Texas and all lines south of Louisville. For thirteen months he acted in this capacity, the lines being then turned over to the civil authorities. Coming north to Chicago, he took charge of De Graff's clothing store, and, after remaining two years in that position, formed a partnership with David McWilliams at Dwight, Ill.. which lasted seven years. On the dissolution of this partnership he spent fifteen months at Pontiac, Ill., in connection with the firm of Newell, Judd & Sims, engaged in the lumber trade, the concern being then profitably disposed of to a Pana (111.) company. Six months in each of the next two years were passed by Mr. Judd in the Gunnison mining district of Colorado, and in 1880 he joined Dr. Leslie E. Keeley and John R. Oughton. at Dwight, Ill., in introducing and developing the Keeley cure for drunkenness and the opium habit. An entire chapter devoted to the different Keeley institutes may be found on another page of this volume, On the organization of The Leslie E. Keeley Company, Mr. Judd was chosen Secretary and Treasurer, and on the incorporation of the company, April 21, 1886, he was again elected to the same position, holding it until March 1, 1902, when Charles R. Romberger was made Secretary, Mr. Judd retaining the office of Treasurer, This he continued until Mr. Romberger's death, February 28, 1907, when he was a second time chosen Secretary and Treasurer, and is still acting in this double capacity.

In 1904, Mr. Judd was elected Vice-President of the Livingston County Bank, at Pontiac, and 'in January, 1908, became its President. He was made Vice-President of the First National Bank of Dwight in February, 1906, a position which he holds at present, being also a director in both of these banking institutions. He is one of the largest stockholders in the Bankers' National Bank, of Chicago, and besides his various official duties and responsibilities, has extensive investments in Illinois, Iowa and Missouri farming lands. Mr. Judd is a public-spirited, generous hearted man, of affable disposition and very courteous manner. He is an earnest supporter of all measures tending to promote the welfare and prosperity of the community in which he lives.

On November 24, 1880, Mr. Judd was united in marriage, at Cedar Falls. Iowa, with Miss F. Estelle Dow, a daughter of Isaac C. and Eliza (Harmon) Dow. Mrs. Judd was born in Ohio, her parents being natives of that State. This union resulted in two children, of whom Florence M., the elder, is the wife of Donald C. Bartholomew, who is connected with the D. C. Bartholomew Company, advertising agents at Boston, Mass., the Bartholomew home being, however, at Jamaica Plain, a suburb of Boston. Arthur C. Judd, the son, is also connected with the D. C. Bartholomew Company.

Politically. Mr. Judd is a Republican and, although quite indifferent to party honors, has served as a member of the Village Board of Trustees in Dwight, and as President of that body. Fraternally, he is affiliated with Livingston Lodge, No. 371, A. F. & A. M. at Dwight; Wilmington Chapter, No. 14, R. A. M.; Joliet Commandery, No. 4 K. T.; Medinah Temple of the Mystic Shrine, Chicago; and Pontiac Lodge, No. 1019, B. P. O. E. He is also a member of the Union League and Kenwood clubs, of Chicago; the Commercial Club of Dwight, and of Dwight Post, No. 626, Grand Army of the Republic.

KALKWARF, Dirk H., a retired farmer now residing in the village of Flanagan, Livingston County, Ill, a man of high character and ample financial resources, who through many years of diligent effort, thrifty management and fair dealing has made an honorable record, besides accumulating a handsome competency, was born in Hanover, Germany, on May 29, 1836. Mr. Kalkwarf is a son of Henry D. and Volmkea (Redwes) Kalkwarf, natives of that country, where the birth of both parents took place in 1805. Henry D. Kalkwarf, who followed farm- ing for a livelihood came to the United States with his wife and family in 1856, locating in Woodford County, Ul. The first wife of Henry Kalkwarf died in Germany. He married again, his second choice being Jennie Peters, who died in 1890, he dying in 1888. By his first wife he had four children, and by his second, eight. Of the first four, Dirk H. is the only one now surviving, while there are three living of the second family.

Dirk H. Kalkwarf was reared on the home farm in Germany, and received his education in the public schools of that country. In 1886 he came to America in a sailing vessel, the trip consuming nine weeks, the landing taking place in New Orleans. From New Orleans he made his way to Peoria, Ill, arriving three days before Christmas, and from there went to Watseka, Il., where he remained eighteen months. Then, in 1858, he came to Livingston County, rented land for a year, when he bought forty acres, improved it and kept on adding to his holdings, until he became the owner of 360 acres of very desirable land. Besides this, he owns nine lots and a comfortable residence in the village of Flanagan, to which he moved in 1903, on withdrawing from agricultural pursuits.

Mr. Kalkwarf was married in Livingston County, Ill., on February 15, 1860, to Tonna Baumann, a daughter of William and Anna (Bloom) Baumann, natives of Germany, and early settlers in Livingston County, coming here about 1854. The children of this marriage are as follows: Henry, who married Anna Block, is farming in Woodford County, and has seveu children; Anna, married J. Weye Annessen and they reside in Thayer County, Neb., and have one daughter; Frank, married Lizzie Gerrells and they reside in Flanagan, Ill., and have two boys and one girl; Dolkert, who died January 18, 1901, aged thirty-three, left a widow, Matilda (Monk) Kalkwarf, who resides in Livingston County; Albert, who is unmarried, is in the implement business in Flanagan, Ill.; George, who married Anna Hubben resides in Livingston County and they have three boys; John, married Anna Obert, and they reside in Livingston County and have two boys; Minnie, married John Hiemkem, and they reside on a farm in Livingston: County and have three sons and three daughters; Dena, who married William Vissenring, and they reside near Minonk, Ill; Jennie, deceased; Dirk, who resides in North Dakota; David, Jennie and Tena at home.

KAMINKE, William H., one of the reliable and public-spirited farmers and stock raisers of Reading Township, is the proprietor of a fine farm on Section 28, upon which he has made many valuable improvements appertaining to a first-class modern homestead. The fields are well laid off for the growing of grain and for pasturage, the fences are substantially built and kept in good repair, and the property is fully equipped with the most highly improved machinery. Mr. Kaminke was born in this Township, October 30, 1866, a son of Godlieb and Mary (Turk) Kaminke, both natives of Berlin, Germany. The mother, who was born December 1, 1841, came to the United States in 1859 when about nineteen years old. Landing in New York. she went from there to Earlville, Il, and in 1861, met Mr. Kaminke, an old friend. Later she went to Ottawa, Ill., and he there married her, October 8, 1868. After their marriage they came to Livingston County, where he bought eighty acres of land on Section 28, Reading Township, where his death occurred in July: 1867, and where his wife still makes her home. They had two children: Frances, who married John Reffert, a resident of Calhoun County, Iowa, and William H.

Mrs. Kaminke married William Shultz, and they had two children: Nina, who married Morris William, of Chicago, Ill.; and Ida, now of Streator, Ill. She again married, her third husband being Henry Warmbold, who died in 1898, and they had one daughter, Emma, wife of Frank Hooper of Fair Oaks, Ind.

William H. Kaminke was born on the homestead and received a common school education. At an early age he began to assume the duties of farm life, and has followed farming and stock-raising all his life, although he has been called upon quite frequently to fill various township offices. He was first elected as Road Commissioner, but after two years' service resigned. In 1903 he was elected by a good majority as Supervisor of Reading Township over a strong opposition, and having given entire satisfaction to his constituents, was returned to that office in 1907. This is not an easy office to fill, but Mr. Kaminke carefully studied the situation, and has made one of the best Supervisors that Reading Township has ever known. The County Board of Livingston County is composed of men of more than average ability and the service they are rendering the county is changing and improving conditions in the various townships very materially. Mr. Kaminke is also a member of the 4School Board of District 39, Reading Township. He is a Republican, a member of the Modern Woodmen of America at Ancona, Ill, and a man of considerable importance not only in his own township, but throughout the county. The homestead where he has worked so hard to bring about the present conditions, has always been his home. He owns 108 acres in Calhoon County, Iowa, which is devoted to general farming and stock-raising. Mrs. Warmbold, his mother, is a pleasant, hospitable German lady, with all the excellent traits of the housewives of her native land, and is very popular in the Township.

KAMMERER, Mathias, manufacturer of concrete building blocks and contractor for public buildings, out-buildings, foundations, cement walks, etc., Fairbury, Livingston Co.. Ill. In no other branch of building has there been, during the past twenty-five years, development commen- surate with that in the use of cement. Gradually this material has supplanted other materials in certain parts of buildings and in certain construction of other kinds, and there are those who predict that it will be the chief building material of the future, as it seems to have been in ages long past. One of the most prominent builders in this line in Central Illinois is Mathias Kammerer, who has originated many ideas in cement block and brick work, including fancy porch work to which he gives special attention. With the use of mineral colors he does concrete work in any tint desired, for facing brick or for columus and bannisters, which is practically indestructible. The possibilities in this line are numerous and he has recently increased his productive capacity by the addition of the manufacture of concrete monuments.

A son of Christian Kammerer, born February 24, 1867, Mr. Kammerer arrived with his parents in America from Germany, their native land, July 15, 1883, when he was little more than sixteen years old. They located first at Forreston, Ogle County, Ill., but soon came to Fairbury, where Mr. Kammerer's parents still live. The boy had attended school eight years in Germany, and being naturally quick to acquire a knowledge of languages, had little difficulty in soon picking up enough English to enable him to get an acquaintance with Americans and their ways. His father was by trade a clock-maker, but the son did not incline to that kind of work and found employment on a farm, in which he persevered until 1887, obtaining considerable practical knowledge of different kinds and saving a little money. He then went to Chicago, where for several months he worked at stone masonry, in a practical way learning a good deal about that and kindred construction work. Returning to Fairbury in the fall of that year, he

'began contracting for the excavation and construction of cellars and other similar work. From a small beginning he soon branched out into all kinds of foundation and plastering work. Profiting by experience, he was soon able to compete with other contractors in all kinds of ordinary building required in the village and country round about. In 1900 he began the construction of concrete sidewalks, for which he found a constantly increasing demand and in which he was able to satisfy the most particular customer. In 1902 he began making concrete blocks in a little fourteen by twenty-foot building, which he was obliged to enlarge the following year. By 1904 his operations became so extensive that he found it expedient to buy a lot 50 by 158 feet in area, on which he erected a block cement factory building covering a ground space of 30 by 50 feet, which he enlarged in 1906 to 70 by 80 feet. In 1907 he installed in his factory motor power and machinery for the manufacture of concrete blocks of all sizes, sewer pipe and kindred products. His work in these various lines compares favorably with that of any. of his competitors. Auxiliaries to his line are catch-basins for sewers or public works, concrete posts and concrete monuments. He turns out all kinds of porch work including steps, railings and columns. The many who have patronized him have found his work artistic and durable and as a consequence the demand for it is rapidly growing. Mr. Kammerer may be considered a pioneer in his line. The first enterprise of the kind in the vicinity was started at Springfield, Ill, and his plant at Fairbury was the second. He considers that his business, large as it is, is only in its infancy and his plans for the future are very comprehensive. Concrete buildings are finding favor everywhere. Passing over all economic considerations, it has been demonstrated that, concrete blocks being hollow, houses built of them are drier than brick houses. A neat inside finish is secured by lathing and plastering in the ordinary way. There is no new idea in his line of work that escapes his notice, and, his powers of invention have enabled him to introduce many improvements tending alike to economy, beauty and lasting quality.

Mr. Kammerer married Margareta Meister, October 5, 1895. A native of Germany, she came over the sea with her parents and settled at Fairbury, where her father died and where her mother still lives. To Mr. and Mrs. Kammerer have been born six children - Christian, John, Lydia, Joseph, Emil and Ezra, who have been named here in the order of their birth. The people in Mr. Kammerer's part of Germany are communicants of the Amish Apostolic Church, and a church of that faith has been established at Fairbury, of which he and his family and many of their German friends are members. Mr. Kammerer is in no sense a practical politician, but he has decided ideas upon all public questions, takes just pride in Fairbury and its institutions and is ready at all times to aid to the extent of his ability any measure for the general good.

KEENETH, Leonard John, a typical made" man, who, starting out in life for himself with no capital but good health, grit and tenacity of purpose, has developed into one of the most substantial and prosperous farmers in Livingston County, Ill., was born in Bavaria, Germany, June 15, 1858, a son of John and Margaret (Zopf) Keeneth, natives of Bavaria, the father born in 1812 and the mother in 1823. Leonard Keeneth, the grandfather, was a farmer in Germany, while the father, John Keeneth, was a shoemaker by trade, living in a small village but owning a small farm near by which supplied the family with many of the ordinary necessities of life. He was a thrifty tradesman and in comfortable circumstances, and being an excellent musician, played in a large band. His death occurred in Germany in 1885, and soon afterwards his widow came to the United States, to live with her children, finally dying in 1905, The family consisted of three sons and three daughters, of whom those still living besides the subject of this sketch are: John C., of New York City, a dealer in kindling wood, who buys large tracts of pine forest and has the timber converted into kindling and shipped to

New York; Lizzie (Mrs. John Myer), of Brooklyn, N. Y.; and Minnie (Mrs. Henry Jones), whose husband is the owner of a paper factory in that State,

In boyhood, Leonard J. Keeneth attended the public schools of his native land, and when fourteen years of age started alone for the United States. Landing in New York City, he stayed there eight years, working at first in a grocery, and afterwards, with his brother, John C. In the spring of 1881, he came to Bloomington, Il., and was employed one year on a farm near that city. At that time he became acquainted with a man named "Charley" Cordes, who, with his partner, was farming east of Bloomington. He bought this partner's interest in tools, stock, crops, etc., and farmed in partnership with Cordes for four years, living at the outset in bachelor's quarters, and subsequently with his partner, when the latter was married, Then he made a visit to New York, and returning in 1881, farmed for two years on rented land near his former location, at the end of this period moving to Odell Township, Livingston County. In the spring of 1888, he rented a farm four miles east of Odell, which he occupied one year. Following this he bought eighty acres, and has acquired more at intervals until his land holdings now comprise 340 acres in Odell Township. All of the land is thoroughly tiled, and on it many improvements haye been made. Aside from general farming Mr. Keeneth raises a good grade of horses.

On February 16, 1886, in Bloomington, Ill., Mr. Keeneth was married to Caroline Vandekar, who was born just east of Bloomington, September 16, 1860. Mrs. Keeneth is a daughter of Jerry and Lizzie (Cummings) Vandekar, and her father, a farmer by occupation, now lives in Paulding, Ohio. The children resulting from this union are as follows: Frank, born February 17, 1890; Ray, born March 21, 1892; Ernest, born January 10, 1894; Grace, born October 27, 1897; and Lindon, born October 15, 1902.

Politically, Mr. Keeneth is a Republican, but with no aspirations for public office. He has, however, served as School Director for fourteen years. In Germany, he was reared in the Lutheran faith, but is liberal in his religious views, and he and his family attend the Congregational church. He is one of the leading farmers and most favorably known citizens of his locality.

KELLY, Edmund J., D. D. S., who is successfully engaged in the practice of dentistry in Chatsworth, Livingston County, Ill., was born in Wilmington, Will County, in the same State, February 6, 1879. His father, Michael R. Kelly, is a resident of Joliet, Ill., where he was for many years interested in various industries. The boyhood of Edmund J. Kelly was mainly passed in Chicago, from which city the senior Kelly then engaged as a traveling salesman. The primary education of Hdmund J. was obtained in the Chicago public schools, and he graduated from the Joliet High School with the Class of '97. After spending two years in clerical work, he applied himself to the study of dentistry at the Chicago College of Dental Surgery in 1899, graduating therefrom in 1902. Soon afterwards he went to Moline, Ill., and there opened an office for the practice of his profession, changing his location to Chatsworth four years later, where he succeeded Dr. O. H. Brigham, who had been a dentist in Chatsworth for twenty-seven years. The latter withdrew from practice, and is now in Missouri, living in retirement. Dr. Kelly devotes his attention closely to his professional duties, and has a good patronage. He is fond of athletic sports, and in intervals of leisure, enjoys a good game of base ball as much as anyone.

Politically, the subject of this sketch is Independent. Religiously, he was reared in the Catholic faith and is a communicant of St. Peter and St. Paul's church. In fraternal circles, he is affiliated with the Modern Woodmen of America and the Knights of Columbus. He was married June 22, 1908, to Miss Mary Frances Kueffner, daughter of William Kueffner, a well known and respected farmer of Chatsworth Township.

KELLY, Thomas William, of Dwight Township, Livingston County, Ill., is a creditable example of that class of worthy men, who, beginning with nothing but health and a determination to succeed, make their own way in the world, unaided, and by dint of industry, sobriety, honesty and economy, accumulate a competence. Mr. Kelly is a native of Ireland, a son of James and Ann (Newman) Kelly, both born in the Emerald Isle. A year after his son, Thomas W., the father, who, in the old country, was a shepherd by occupation, followed the former to America, locating in the vicinity of Kingston, N. Y., where he and his family lived three years. Thence they went to Chicago, and after spending a short time in that city, moved to Lacon, 111., where they stayed a year, going next to Dwight, Ill., where the parents passed their last days. Both were members of the Catholic Church. Politically. James Kelly was a Demoerat. Thomas W. Kelly attended the grammar school in his native town, and when he was fifteen years old emigrated to the United States. After three years spent in New York State he went to Chicago, where he was employed for several years by a wholesale tea and coffee house. Becoming dissatisfied with life in a large city, however, he changed his location to Dwight, Ill., and there worked by the month, being engaged mainly in digging ditches. In 1864, he was drafted for service in the army, but secured a substitute. About that time he bought eighty acres of land in Dwight Township, to which he added until he had acquired 240 acres. At present he owns 160 acres of well-improved land, having given eighty acres to his sons.

Mr. Kelly was married in New York State, to Bridget Shaw, who was born in Ireland. Her father, William Shaw, came to this country in the '50s and lived a few years in Dwight, but passed his last days in Chicago. His wife died in Ireland. The children resulting from this union were nine in number, as follows: Thomas William; William Samuel, of Campus, Ill.; Mary Ann; Margaret; Thomas Francis, of Dwight Township; Elizabeth; Bernard; Patrick, and James, who lives in Joliet, 111.

In politics, Mr. Kelly is a supporter of the Republican party, and has served the public one term as School Director. He and his good wife are devout members of the Catholic Church.

KERR, Henry Martin (deceased). - During practically the entire course of a life that was all too brief for the consummation of his hopes and aspirations, yet was sufficiently long to prove the high value of his citizenship and the high moral principles actuating his deeds, Mr. Kerr remained a resident of Livingston County. The farm which he purchased in Pontiac Township and which was cultivated under his sagacious direction, still remains in the family and, after his death, it was for some years personally superintended by his widow. Had he been spared to old age, undoubtedly greater honors and a higher degree of success would have fallen to his lot, yet no small share of success already had crowned his labors when his untimely death removed him from the scenes of his early efforts.

The Kerr family was established in Livingston County by George and Susanna (Kessler) Kerr, natives of Ohio, where their son, Henry Martin, was born October 7, 1855. The date of the first coming of the family to Livingston County was the year 1856, but after a brief sojourn they returned to Ohio. Again in 1862 they came to Illinois and settled on the land they had secured during their first trip to the State, For some years they engaged in general farming, but about 1871 came to Pontiac, the son Henry at that time being a boy of eighteen years. The advantages of the .excellent schools of Pontiac were possible to him, and thus he acquired a fair education. Before entering upon his life-work of farming he tried other occupations, learning telegraphy and also, for a time, engaging in the grain business at Streator. His first identification with farming took him to the old homestead, but at the time of his marriage he removed to an adjoining farm and there the balance of his life was busily but quietly passed. His death occurred October 6, 1891. while watching the drilling of a well on his father's farm. A part of the tubing which was hoisted in the air broke and struck him^`on the head, fracturing his skull. The accident happened at 3 o'clock and Mr. Kerr expired at 7 o'clock in the evening, never regaining consciousness after the fatal blow. The funeral was held at his father's house - his body being interred in the Pontiac cemetery.

The marriage of Henry Martin Kerr and Belle Beitman was solemnized January 2, 1884, and brought them mutual happiness until severed by death. Mrs. Kerr was born near Cayuga, Livingston County, Ill., March 31, 1862, a daughter of David and Frances (Ullery) Beitman, na- tives of Troy, Ohio, but early residents of Livingston County, where her education was acquired. Her paternal grandfather, Jacob Beitman, was born in Pennsylvania and married a Miss Thompson. Her maternal grandparents were Jacob and Mary Ann (Hill) Ulery, the former of German descent. Two daughters comprised the family of Mr. and Mrs. Kerr, namely: Mary Elizabeth, born November 26, 1884, and now a milliner in Pontiac; and Verna Susanna, March 26, 1886, a teacher in the public schools of Livingston County. The mother remained with her daughter on the farm after the death of Mr. Kerr, but after a year she ceased to operate it personally, the work proving too arduous for her strength. Since then the 120 aeres comprising the estate, have been leased to tenants. During 1899 she erected a residence at 1219 North Locust Street, Pontiac, where she has since resided and where she and her daughters have enjoyed the companionship of a large circle of warm friends.

KERR, John B,, a well known citizen of Pontiac, Ill, and a man of abundant financial resources and high character who was formerly engaged in conducting farming operations in Livingston County, Il., was born in Concord Township, Miama County, Ohio, October 14, 1859, a son of George and Susanna (Kessler) Kerr, natives of that State and county, where his father was born December 25, 1824. The paternal grandparents, James and Sarah (Thompson) Kerr, were natives of Virginia and Pennsylvania, respectively, the Kerrs being of Scotch descent, and the ancestors of the Thompson family being English. They had twelve children, four of whom are living. On the maternal side, the grandparents were John B. and Susanna (Fiece) Kessler, likewise natives of Virginia and Pennsylvania, respectively. The maternal greatgrandfather was a native of Holland, and a soldier in the War of 1812. Grandfather Kessler and his wife settled, at an early period, in Miami County, Ohio, where the remainder of their lives was spent. They, also, were the parents of twelve children. George Kerr, the father, was a farmer by occupation. He was reared in his native county, receiving a limited education. His marriage with Susanna Kessler took place November 26, 1844. In 1856 he came to Livingston County, Ill., and after staying eight months, went back to Ohio, where he remained six years. In 1862 he returned to Livingston County, locating on a farm containing over 600 acres, where he made his home until death summoned him away, February 24, 1894. His wife survived him a little more than four years, passing away June 10, 1898. Both were members of the Presbyterian church, in which the father officiated as an elder for thirty-five years. Their family consisted of eight children, of whom but one is still living. Politically, George Kerr was a Democrat.

John B. Kerr, the sole survivor of this family, was brought up on the home farm, and received his education in the public schools of Pontiac.

During the closing years of his father's life, he assumed the management of the place, continuing thus until the latter's death. Then he moved to Pontiac, buying a residence at No. 917 North Main Street, the same house in which he had lived when a boy. Thinking that Canadian lands afforded a better investment than his father's estate, he has sold all but 130 acres of the home place, and purchased four sections of land near Arcola, in Southeastern Saskatchawan,

On December 20, 1881, Mr. Kerr was married to Henrietta Stemm, born in Livingston County, Il, a daughter of Emanuel H. and Laura (Miller) Stemm, who came to Livingston County from Pennsylvania at an early period. Mr. Stemm owns 320 acres of land in the vicinity. of Morris, Manitoba. Together with his wife he is living retired in Pontiac. Mr. and Mrs. Kerr have reared four children, as follows: Miriam Elizabeth, born in 1886 and educated in the Pontiac High Sehool; George Henry Howard, born in 1888; Susanna, born in 1890; and Josephine Henrietta, born in 1892. The last two are students in the Pontiac Central School,

Politically, Mr. Kerr takes an independent course. His reugious connection is with the Presbyterian church, of which the entire family are members.

KERRINS, James H., who is successfully engaged in the grain and coal trade at Chatsworth, Ill., was born in Brenton Township, Ford County, Ill., eight miles northeast of Chatsworth, October 20. 1864. He is a son of Thomas and Mary (Meehan) Kerrins, natives of County Sligo, Ireland, whence the father came to the United States in 1857, landing in New York City, and soon going to Fort Plain in the same State. Thomas Kerrins had been reared to farm life, but was handy with tools, and found work in connection with brick and stone construction, being also engaged in running a ferry boat on the Hudson River. He was subsequently employed in a seminary at Fort Plain and while there met and married Mary Meehan. In 1865, he moved to Livingston County, Ill, and located on a farm three and a half miles northwest of Chatsworth, April 15 of that year. He began farming in Charlotte Township, without financial resources, and as the land was low and wet, his task was an arduous one. Starting with eighty acres, he continued to acquire more until, in 1893, he was the owner of a section of land which was highly improved. His holdings were afterwards diminished by sales to 320 acres. This farm is one of the most desirable farming properties in the county. In the year last mentioned, Thomas Kerrins rented his farm and took up his residence in Chatsworth, where he bought property, owning a business block. He died in Chatsworth, April 10, 1902, but his widow, still surviving, is a resident of that village. They reared a family of six sons and two daughters, as follows: Ellen, wife of James W. Ford, Assessor of Chatsworth; James H.; Charles, a farmer in Decatur County, Iowa; Thomas P., who operates the homestead farm; John A., in Real Estate business; Dennis J., who works for his brother James in the elevator, of Chatsworth; Martin, who conducts a grain elevator at Healey, Ill., and is station agent of the Illinois Central Railroad Company; and Katie, wife of Patrick J. Lawless, of Chatsworth. In politics, Thomas Kerrins was a Democrat, and held minor township offices.

James H. Kerrins remained on the home farm until 1893, working with his father, together with his younger brothers, and then in company with his brother, John A., he engaged in the grocery and commission business. Disposing of his interest to his brother eighteen months later, he established himself in the grain trade, starting in 1895, the elevators with which he was then connected being owned by the Rogers Grain Company, and located in Chatsworth, Charlotte and Healey. On January 1, 1908, he took charge of the Illinois Central Railroad Company elevator at Chatsworth, on a lease, and is making a complete success of the undertaking. Mr. Kerrins is not married but occupies the family residence with his mother. He is the executor of the paternal estate. Aside from business cares, he is fond of athletic games.

Politically, the subject of this sketch is a Democrat, but in the main has kept aloof from active politics. He served, however, three years on the Village Board, and held the office of Mayor of Chatsworth in 1898. Fraternally, he is affiliated with the Knights of Columbus, being on the local board of Managers. He is further identified with the M. W. A.. in which be is Banker of the Chatsworth Camp; and also belongs to the K. of P. In religion Mr. Kerrins was reared to the Catholic faith, his parents having been among the original members of Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Chatsworth.

KESSLER, Walter A., plumbing and heating, West Main Street, Fairbury, Livingston County, Ill. That this is the day of the young man in business is quite apparent, whatever way one turns for evidence. That it is not the day of men of single ideas is likewise manifest. Half a century ago men prided themselves upon knowing no business but one, and many of them believed that they could not have succeeded in any other line than that to which they had given their attention from boyhood. The business man to-day is many-sided. First of all, he takes care to be trained as a business man. After that the management of one kind of business or another, in a small town or a large one, is equally easy after a few details have been mastered. The head of a business, without claiming to know all that may be known of it, employs men who understand it in its different departments, and laying broad plans holds them responsible for minor things. These thoughts have been suggested by a consideration of the brief but successful career of the man whose name is above.

Walter A. Kessler was born in LaSalle County, Ill.. September 23, 1875, a son of Adam and Margaretta (Riedel) Kessler. His father was a native of Germany and his mother born in the State of New York. Adam Kessler was born in 1828, and came to the United States in 1844, being then sixteen years old. In 1849 he Settled in LaSalle County. At that time the California gold excitement was rapidly extending throughout the country and gold-seekers were flocking there by thousands. Mr. Kessler caught the gold fever and went to California overland. While he made no big strike, he was reasonably successful and in 1851 returning to LaSalle County bought land there. He immediately set to work to improye this property and in due time developed it into a fine farm. In 1876 he removed to Livingston County and settled in Fayette Township, where he bought 160 acres of land. His land was wild and uncultivated, the soil of black loam, much of it under water. Later he made other purchases of land nearby until eventually he owned 1,000 acres in one body, all tiled and under a high state of cultivation. On his original farm he erected a fine home for his family, large barns and stock buildings, with all necessary outhouses. He gave his attention especially to general farming, and came to be known as one of the most successful farmers in central Illinois. In due time he removed to Fairbury, where he enjoyed the fruits of a well spent life up to the date of his death, on June 22, 1904, his wife having died July 3, 1900. Mr. Kessler was a lover of home, but liked to travel and made several trips around Cape Horn, but after his last trip never returned to his native land. When his father died, leaving a large _ estate, he made no claim to his legal share of it, reasoning that he had had all of his active years to himself and had prospered and that his brother and sister, who had remained with their parents, were justly entitled to the property. He read widely and studiously, and was well informed upon all public issues and gave special attention to politics. which he viewed: from the standpoint of a Republican. While he never sought public honors, not a few were thrust upon him. As Supervisor of Fayette Township, and in other offices-of trust and responsibility, he righteously promoted the interests of his community and carefully guarded the public funds. He and his wife were active and liberal members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Public education had in him a loyal and earnest supporter. The following facts concerning the children of Adam and Margaretta (Riedel) Kessler are pertinent in this connection. Their daughter Lizzie, of Fairbury, is the widow of John Straesser, and she has sons named Arthur and Charles. Mary married William Courtney, a farmer of Fayette Township, and she has two children - Grace and Earl Courtney. Emma lives at Fairbury, a member of the family of her brother Joseph. Arthur married Miss Rosa Duenger, and died in 1904. His widow, who bore him children named Arthur, Della, Esther and Hazel, lives at Gibson City. Ill. Anna died aged eighteen years. Edward, who lives on the home farm in Fayette Township, married Miss Hattie Farghayer and has children named Pearl, Clarence and Edna. Joseph C. is manager of the telephone exchange, of Fairbury. Bertha is living at Fairbury. Walter A. is the immediate subject of this sketch. These children, with the exception of Joseph and Bertha, were born in LaSalle County, while Joseph and Bertha were born in Fayette Township, Livingston County. Walter A. Kessler came to Livingston County with his parents and the days of his boyhood were spent on his father's farm. He was educated in the district schools in Fayette Township and in the Fairbury High School. While yet a mere Jad he was ever ready to do what he could to assist his father and older brothers, and he has a distinct recollection of having many times mounted a horse and ridden over his father's marshy fields to chase away the wild geese and wild ducks which sought the grain before it was sprouted. Those early days on the farm in Fayette Township were busy ones, but he remembered them as happy days. When his father retired from active life Walter took charge of the farm. September 12, 1900, he married Miss Mary Keller, a native of Fairbury, born December 15, 1870, a daughter of George Keller, a contractor and builder, who died leaving many of the best residences at Fairbury and in the surrounding country as monuments to his skill and industry. In the course of business Mr. Kessler became a stockholder in the House of J. A. Ingle & Co., manufacturers of farming implements at Peoria. In 1905 he moved from the farm to Fairbury and, for a year, was a traveling salesman for the concern just mentioned. In 1906 he resigned that position and bought the plumbing establishment of J. K. Schick, at Fairbury. Carrying a complete stock of plumbing goods and heating apparatus, he makes a specialty of large jobs of plumbing and heating, employing none but first-class workmen in any department of his business. He has made notable success of this enterprise and has taken a high place in the business circles of the city and county. He is actively interested in everything pertaining to the public weal and, as a Republican, has been elected Road Commissioner and School Director in Fayette Township. though since he came to Fairbury he has declined all official honors. He is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America, of the Court of Honor, of the Knights of Pythias, of the Eagles and of the Dramatic Order of Knights Khorassen. Mr. and Mrs. Kessler are attendants upon the services of the Presbyterian Church and are generous supporters of the interests of that organization. They have a son named Walter Bernell, born April 22, 1901, and a daughter named Dorothy Helen, born November 23, 1904,

KETCHAM, John D., Dwight. Livingston County, Ill. The life of this man clearly illustrates the value of good character in the achievement of commercial and social success. He came of good old American stock and was in many conspicuous ways a representative American of the better class. His successes were won by honesty and industry, and his whole course was that of the public spirited citizen whose motto is, "to live and let live."

20, 1848, John D. Ketcham died at Dwight, May 12, 1893, and his mortal remains were buried in Oaklawn cemetery. Doubly orphaned when he was about two years old, he remained near his birth place in New York until, in his ninth year, he came to Dwight, where as a mere lad he found employment with J. B. Parsons in the coal and ice business. Eventually he became Mr. Parson's partner, and later bought him out, continuing the business until 1891, when he disposed of it and retired from active life. Such education as he was able to obtain he acquired in the common schools. For many years he was identified with the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he was a Republican, and is remembered as having taken a deep and abiding interest in the progress and prosperity of the community - as a man ready at all times to aid to the extent of his ability any measure which, in his opinion, promised to benefit any considerable class of his fellow citizens.

Mr. Ketcham married Miss Lizzie Johnston, December 24, 1873. Miss Johnston was born in Sauk County, Wis., November 15, 1849, a daughter of Perry T. and Ellen (Lewis) Johnston. Her grandparents in the paternal line were William and Eliza Johnston and her grandfather. on the maternal side Abram Lewis. Her father was born in Wisconsin, and her mother in New York. The former died in his native State when Mrs. Ketcham was quite young. Mrs. Johnston married Richard Roe, and when Mrs. Ketcham was about twelve years old she moved to Dwight, where she died in 1899.

John D. and Lizzie (Johnston) Ketcham had the following named children: James B., who was born February 15, 1875, fills the office of night policeman at Dwight. Gertrude May, born September 10, 1876, is Mrs. Louis Barrett, of Louisville, Ky. Grace E., who was born September 28, 1881, is her mother's assistant in the management of the Ketcham boarding house, which was established in 1882 and has come to be recognized as one of the institutions of Dwight. James B. Ketcham, above mentioned, married Mary Snyder and they have two children - Gertrude Hazel and Helen Geraldine.

KIMBALL, Ira, (deceased). - A member of the Kimball family - who were important factors in New England history dating from the coming of the Puritans - Ira Kimball was born at Buxton, York County, Maine, March 8, 1834, the son of Nathan and Abigail (File or Faille) Kimball, the former also a native of Buxton and a farmer by occupation. The grandfather of Ira Kimball - Daniel Kimball by name - resided for a time at Marblehead, Mass., where the American ancestor of the family (also named Daniel) had settled on coming from England in 1630, being one of

Mr. And Mrs. Peter Sterrenberg

Maine, settling in the wilderness among the Indians and wild animals of the pine woods, and there hewed out a homestead and became the founder of one of the pioneer families of that region. He was the same Daniel Kimball who, at the age of more than eighty years, on entering his barn in the early dawn one winter morning, found himself confronted by a large panther, which he killed with a pitchfork.

Ira Kimball was educated in the public schools, with one year at Gorham Academy, Maine, after which, at the age of eighteen years, he went to Providence, R. I., and there spent two years as an apprentice learning the carpenter's trade, meanwhile paying his father for his time until he reached his majority. After spending some years working at his trade at Providence, on June 18, 1856, he was married at Plainfield, Conn., to Lucy Maria Phillips, who was born at Stonington, Conn., April 80, 1832, also of Pilgrim stock, her ancestry dating back to the arrival of the Pilgrim Fathers on the Mayflower. After his marriage, Mr. Kimball, with his wife, returned to the paternal home in Maine, which he bought, but two years later sold to an older brother and, removing to 'Springfield, Mass., worked there in the United States Arsenal during the period of the Civil War. Then moving to Montgomery County, Ill., he spent sometime there farming, later moved to Peoria County and thence, in 1882, to Livingston County, where he was the owner of a farm upon which he lived for several years. His next change of location was on his removal to South Dakota, where he had taken up a homestead before removing to Livingston County. Leaving South Dakota in 1894 he finally moved to St. Clair County, Mo., where he died on Dec. 15, 1899.

Mr. Kimball was a Democrat in political views and, while a resident of South Dakota. was nominated as a candidate on the Independent ticket for Representative in the State Legislature from Douglas County, that State, but was defeated, the County being strongly Republican. During the Civil War he volunteered under one of President Lincoln's calls for volunteers, but was rejected on account of his small stature. Although neyer a member of any church, he enjoyed a high reputation for veracity, honesty and conscientiousness of character in his dealings with his fellow-men, and was a sturdy advocate of temperance in all things.

abundantly evidenced by the prosperity of the many large farms scattered throughout its length and breadth, well stocked and handsomely provided with beautiful homes and substantial barns, One of the most influential of these farmers of Livingston County is Benjamin Matthew King, on Section 33, Indian Grove Township. He was born in Hamilton, Canada, June 29, 1851, a son of James and Mrs. Lucy (Godd) Ketteringham King, natives of Kent, England. James King was born in 1817. Leaving England he lived for a time in Hamilton, Canada, but left in the fall of 1851 for New York, from whence he and his family proceeded to Buffalo. Mrs. King's aunt was a housekeeper for Queen Victoria at Buckingham palace. As Mrs. King and her six sisters grew to maturity they were taken to their aunt who carefully trained them. James King was one of a family of four children.

After a short time spent at Buffalo, the little family came on to Chicago, locating on Blue Island Ayenue, then a wild tract. Their nearest neighbors were two miles away. One winter the canal overflowed its banks and Mr. King, who was in a dairy business, had to remove his stock to a safe place. He selected a distillery on Prairie Avenue between Twenty-fourth and Twenty-third Streets. Here they became the neighbors of Dr. Cheeney, the warm personal friend of President Lincoln. In time Mr. King branched out and became what was then called a drover. He bought and sold cattle, in this. line doing an extensive business. He located at Loda, Iroquois County, Ill, and bought direct from the farmers, fattening the cattle and hogs with distillery waste and chopped hay. His annual shipments averaged from 900 to 1200 head. The last winter he was at Loda he fed and sold 1200 head of steers, but in 1867 he retired to Fairbury, and formed a partnership in the lumber business with a Mr. Bullard under the style of King & Bullard, on the land now occupied by the City Park on Main Street. Finally he traded his interest for the James Cook farm near Fairbury, where he engaged in farming for some time, but his restless spirit could not remain satisfied, and he traded off his farm for the lumber yard and conducted what was then known as The Red Office Lumber Yard. Again tiring of the lumber business, he sold it to Jacob Van Toble and bought 240 acres of land on Section 33, Indian Grove Township, which was the first farm settled in Livingston County by Major Darnell when he entered the land in November, 1829. This farm is~of historical interest as it was the first one entered in the county, and on it was born the first white child in Livingston. He was Nathan Darnell, now deceased. On this farm the first postoffice was opened, the building which contained the first blacksmith's forge is still standing, and the whole place is full of memories of pioneer days. Major Darnell was Postmaster, village blacksmith and farmer. Philip Hopper was the mail carrier, his route lying between Lexington and Ottawa.

ing and pile-driving of Seattle, Wash.; James, a gold and silver mine operator in Colorado; Maria, wife of A. F. Pogue, of Crawfordsville, Ind.; Lucy, married T, W. Duffy of Denver, Colo., but is now deceased; Mary, who lives with Benjamin M. King; Charles and Benjamin M. James King lived to see his choice of a home fully justified and rejoiced in the development of the "Corn Belt." Here he died on his homestead farm, on November 1, 1888, advanced in years. He was a typical Englishman, but was also proud of his adopted country. In politics he was a Democrat, but never could be induced to accept office although it was often tendered him. He was enthusiastic in whatever he undertook, and was very successful in all his ventures. Few men were more devoted Masons; he passed all the degrees of the order, was a Knight Templar and thoroughly believed in. and lived up to the highest teachings of that fraternity. 'Public-spirited, he was ever ready to lend his aid to whatever promised to be of benefit to the community at large, and contributed largely to private charities, Possessing a cheerful disposition, he never allowed himself to be discouraged, but was ever hopeful of good results and often cheered his neighbors in dark moments. Few men were so widely known or so universally mourned as he.

Benjamin Matthew King is a well known person in the history of Livingston County. He can well remember tending cattle with his brother Charles on the prairie where now teems the life of the second city in the United States. His education was obtained in Chicago in a school house on Michigan Avenue between Twenty-third and Twenty-fourth Streets, and in Fairbury. In the latter place his teacher was Smith Olney. After completing his education, he began working on the farm, caring for the stock, and thus continued until about twenty. This was in 1872, and in that year he went to Toronto, Canada, to attend school. He entered the British America Business College, from which he was graduated in the commercial course in the Class of 1873. He had also learned the trade of tinner and heater, on his own volition.

Mr. King now owns the homestead of 240 acres and has devoted his life to farming and stockraising. This property has had but four owners; Major Darnell, who transferred it to Caleb Patton, the latter in turn transferring it to James King. For years Mr. King was the leading stockman of the county, and for some years made a specialty of hogs, his product commanding the highest market prices. Since 1904 Mr. King has lived partially retired, although he oversees everything, but has a man to do the actual work. His property is one of the most valuable farms in Livingston County, and he is justly proud of it.

In September, 1877, Mr. King was married to Miss Lillie Vincent, born in Pekin, Ill., daughter of Timothy Vincent, a pioneer and prominent man of Pekin. Mr. and Mrs. King have children as follows: Clara, who married Bert W. Sanders, scenic photographer for the Wabash Railroad, residing at St. Louis, and they haye one child, Elouise; Warren, deceased; Edward and

Elizabeth, at home; George H., a ranchman of Livingston, Mont., owning a big ranch, and Emma. All were given excellent educations and were graduated from the State University at Champaign. Mr. and Mrs. King are members of the Episcopal Church. Mr. King is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and belongs to the lodge at Fairbury, Tarbolton Lodge 351 A. F. A. M, Chenoa Council No. 75; Fairbury Chapter R. A. M. No. 99; the St. Paul No. 34 Commandery, Fairbury, and is a Mystic Shriner of the Mohammed Temple of Peoria. In politics he has always been independent, preferring to vote for the best man than to tie himself down to any particular party. He is very domestic and a lover of home and family. As a business man he is thorough in his undertakings, is frank and open, kind to his employes and is a man of strict integrity, broadminded and liberal in his views and charities, and is thoroughly representative of the highest and best interests of Livingston County.

KING, Daniel B., a thorough and substantial farmer of Rook's Creek Township, Livingston County, Ill, and a resident of the county for more than forty years, as well as one of the most highly esteemed men of his locality, was born in White Oak Township, McLean County, Ill., May 17, 1860. He is a son of Christian R. and Mary (Becker) King, natives of Germany, the birth of the father having occurred in Baden, December 23, 1819. He came to the United States in 1847, first locating in Pennsylvania. In 1852 he moved to Dry Grove Township, Mc- Lean County, IL, where his father, a German by nativity, was among the early settlers. Later, Christian R. King lived in White Oak Township, spending, altogether, thirteen years in McLean County. In 1865 he changed his location to Nebraska Township, Livingston County, where he carried on farming during the remainder of his active life, dying February 16, 1904. His worthy widow still survives, at the age of seventy-eight years. Their family consisted of twelve children of whom ten are living. The father was a member of the Mennonite church, to which the mother also belongs. Both were always earnest and active in the work of the church. In politics, Christian R. King was a Democrat, and held the office of School Director for a number of years.

Daniel B. King was brought up ön the home farm, and in boyhood availed himself of the advantages of the common schools of MeLean County. Since reaching years of maturity he has always been engaged in farming, and is the owner of 120 acres of land in Rook's Creek Township, Livingston County, besides having an entire section in Polk County, Minn. In connection with his general farming operations, he devotes considerable attenion to stock-raising. and his labors have been attended by satisfactory results. On January 15, 1884, Mr. King was united in marriage with Lucy A. King, born in White Oak Township, McLean County, Ill., July 8, 1864, and a daughter of Peter and Margaret (Holder) King. Her father, a farmer by oc- cupation, was born in McLean County, Il., February 6, 1838, and her mother in Ohio, on February 8, 1838, The former died October 28, 1905, the latter having passed away June 12, 1905. They had eight children, six of whom are living. Mr. and Mrs. King have four children, as follows: Jesse A., a farmer, born May 19, 1885; Lulu M., born June 25, 1888; Etta A., born November 9, 1891; and Verna E., born May 1, 1894. The first three were educated in the public schools,

KINSEY, Isaac W., one of the enterprising and industrious agriculturists of Long Point Township, Livingston County, Ill, whose excellent, farm is situated in Section 10, has for many years been one of the foremost advocates of educational improvement in his township. He was born July 16, 1854. in Clinton County, Ohio, a son of Absalom and Elizabeth (Ellis) Kinsey, natives of that county, where they were married. In October, 1854, Absalom Kinsey and his wife traveled overland to Marshall County, Ill., where they rented land, residing there until 1864, in which year the family came to Livingston County and settled in Long Point Township, where the father died December 23, 1872. They were earnest, honest, quiet people. and reared a family that was a credit to them and to the community. Their children were: Nathan, who served in an Illinois Volunteer Regiment during the Civil War and died May 24, 1897, in LaSalle, Ill.; Ellis, deceased; Kate, who was the wife of Albert King, both now being deceased; Malinda, the wife of James G. Merrill, of Champaign, Ill.; and Isaac W.

Isaac W. Kinsey was brought to Illinois as an infant. and his early schooldays were spent in LaSalle. In 1864 he accompanied his parents to Long Point Township, where he finished his schooling, and remained at home until the death of his father, in 1872, when he went to work on a farm by the month. On December 25, 1876, he was united in marriage with Charlotte Carlton, who was born in Long Point Township, March 3, 1855, daughter of Frederick and Sarah (Windsor) Carlton. Mrs. Kinsey had previously been married in 1870, to Fred Tabot, by whom she had one child - Clarence. born August 2, 1872, who died October 7, 1902. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Kinsey located on property in Section 10, Long Point Township, remaining farm, and for eighteen years Mr. Kinsey was engaged in operating a threshing machine throughout the county. In 1896 the family returned to the farm in Section 10, and here they have since continued to reside. In addition to the eighty-acre tract which they own, they also rent two properties of 160 acres each, and raise fine crops and keep a high grade of live stock. Mr. Kinsey is regarded as an authority on agricultural matters in his community, and has given much attention to his farming duties, but has not allowed them to interfere with his work in the cause of education. For twelve years he has been school director of his district and it has been mainly through his earnest. untiring efforts that Long Point Township has such an excellent school system. In political matters he has always been a Republican as to State and national affairs. Socially, he is connected with the Modern Woodmen of America, Camp No. 1842, of Long Point, and his wife is a member of the Royal Neighbors. Both are consistent members of the Christian Church. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Kinsey, namely: Guy L., born December 24, 1878, at home; Ina Belle, born June 6, 1888, who died February 9, 18895 and Cecil Carlton, born July 3, 1891, all in Long Point Township.

KIPP, Eliakim B., well known in Pontiac, Il., in connection with his flourishing trade in lumber and various lines of building material, was born in Greene County, N. Y., on November 6, 1847, a son of Charles A. and Eliza A. Kipp, natives of New York State. His father, who was among the early settlers of Illinois, went to California in 1849, remaining there eighteen years. On returning to Illinois at the end of that period, he located at Tonica, afterwards moving to Minonk, Woodford County, and died while on a visit from that place to his old home in New York State. He and his wife were the parents of five children, two of whom are deceased,