Marion County, Illinois - The whole text, 1909 (part 20 of 27)

The parents of the subject belonged to the Christian church, but our subject is not a member of any orthodox church. However, he is a believer in the principles of the golden rule and in good to all men. In politics he cast his first Democratic ballots in 1848 and 1852, but upon the organization of the Republican party became a stanch supporter of the same and has always maintained the same political faith.

Samuel L. Dwight

One of the central figures of the judiciary of southern Illinois is the honorable gentleman whose name forms the subject of this review. Prominent in legal circles and equally so in public matters beyond the con- fines of his own jurisdiction, with a reputation in one of the most exacting of professions that has won him a name for distinguished service second to that of none of his contemporaries, there is today no more prominent or highly esteemed man in Marion county, which he has long dignified with his citizenship.

Samuel L. Dwight was born March 15, 1841, at Mount Vernon, Jefferson county, Illinois, the son of Lewis and Mahala Pennington (Casey) Dwight. The subject's mother was the daughter of Governor Zadoc Casey, of Illinois. She was born while her father was a member of the Legislature at Vandalia, capitol of Illinois at that time. He originated the bill to create the county of Marion, naming the same after his father's Revolutionary commander, Francis Marion, of historic fame. Lewis Dwight was born in Massachusetts and educated in that state. However, he graduated at Yale University, after which he came to Jefferson county, Illinois, and taught school for a number of years. He died at the age of seventy years, after a very useful and active life. Samuel L. Dwight was reared with the family of Governor Casey and was educated in the public schools of Mount Vernon, Illinois, having taken one year's course of study at McKendree College. Being ambitious from the first, he applied himself in a most diligent manner to his studies and became well educated. Early deciding to enter the law as a profession, he began the study of the same with Tanner and Casey at Mount Vernon. But when our national horizon was darkened with the clouds of rebellion in the early sixties our subject left Blackstone behind, severed home ties and offered his services in defense of his country's integrity, having enlisted in Company I, Sixtieth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and so gallant were his services that he was mustered out at the close of the war as captain of the same company. He served one and one-half years, having taken part in many engagements and faithfully performing what service he could.

After his career in the army Mr. Dwight, in July, 1866, left the farm at Mount Vernon, Illinois, and resumed the study of law, this time under his uncle, Colonel Lewis F. Casey, who had married an aunt of Samuel E. Dwight, and the daughter of Governor Casey.

Our subject was admitted to the bar in 1868, and he entered into partnership with Colonel Casey, with whom he continued in a most successful manner until the death of Colonel Casey early in the eighties, the prestige of this firm having gradually grown until their practice was equal to that of any other firm in the county.

In 1870 Samuel L. Dwight was elected a member of the lower house of the Twentyseventh General Assembly and served to the entire satisfaction of his constituents for one term. After the death of his former law partner he carried on the business of the firm successfully, practicing law in all the local courts until 1897, when he was elected to the bench of the Fourth Judicial Circuit of Illinois, and so faithfuly did he discharge the duties of the same that he was re-elected to the office in 1903 for another term of six years, and is, therefore, at this writing, 1908, still holding the position. His tenure of office has been marked by a remarkable clearness of decision and fairness to all parties, his decisions having seldom met with disapproval at the hands of a higher tribunal, for he came to the bench well qualified for its exacting duties and responsibilities and from the beginning his judicial career was characterized by such a profound knowledge of the law and an earnest and conscientious desire to apply it impartially that he was not long in gaining the respect and confidence of the attorneys and litigants and earning for himself an honorable reputation among the leading jurists of the state. From the first his labors were very arduous and many important cases were tried in his court, in addition to which he was also frequently called to other circuits to sit on cases in which larger interests were involved.

The happy and harmonious domestic life of Judge Dwight dates from September 4, 1872, when he was married to M. Irene Noleman, the cultured and accomplished daughter of Capt. R. D. Noleman and Sarah A. Jennings, the mother of Mrs. Dwight having been the daughter of Charles W. Jennings. R. D. Noleman was for many years a leading citizen and business man of Centralia.

Fraternally Judge Dwight is a member of the Masonic Order, the Knights of Pythias, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the Grand Army of the Republic and the Modern Woodmen. Both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Their beautiful home is frequently the gathering place for numerous friends and admirers of Mr. and Mrs. Dwight.

Judge S. L. Dwight is ready at all times to make any reasonable sacrifice for the cause in which his interests are enlisted. He is not only an able and reliable counselor, with a thorough acquaintance of the principles, intricacies and complexities of jurisprudence, but his honesty is such that he has frequently advised against long and expensive litigation, and this, too, at the loss of liberal fees which he could otherwise have earned. His treatment of the case he has in .hand is always full of comprehension and accurate, his analysis of the facts clear and exhaustive, and he seems to grasp without effort the relation and dependence of the facts, and so groups them as to enable him to throw their combined force upon the point they intend to prove. He is, withal, a man of the people, proud of his distinction as a citizen of a state and nation for whose laws and institutions he has the most profound admiration and respect.

Douglas C. Brown

Every human being either submits to the controlling influence of others or wields an influence which touches, controls, guides or misdirects others. If he be honest and successful in his chosen field of endeavor, in- vestigation will brighten his fame and point the way along which others may follow with like success. Consequently a critical study of the life record of the gentleman whose name forms the caption of this paragraph may be beneficial to the reader, for it has been one of usefulness and honor.

Douglas C. Brown, the well known principal of Brown's Business College of Centralia, and also superintendent of the Cairo and Marion business colleges, the largest and most modern institutions of their kind in southern Illinois, was born in Clay county, this state, January 28, 1860, the son of William and Lucy (Murphy) Brown, the subject being the second child in a family of four children. The parents of these children died when Douglas C. was but a child and he was reared by an uncle, John A. Flick, with whom he remained until of age. His early education began at Xenia, in Clay county, which was continued at Danville in the Normal School, later at McKendree College, Lebanon, Illinois. In all the schools he attended he made a splendid record for scholarship. Having been ambitious from the first, he applied himself in a most assiduous manner to his text-books and always stood high in his classes.

After leaving school Mr. Brown began teaching at the age of eighteen years. His first schools were taught in Clay county, later in Fayette county. His last public school work was as superintendent of the Vandalia schools, which position he held for five years. His educational work continued for a period of twelve years, during which time he achieved a broad reputation as an able educator and his services were in great demand. He left the work in the public schools for the purpose of opening a business college, which he subsequently launched at Vandalia, having conducted the same for two years, making a success from the start, for his fame as an educator was by that time so firmly established that whatever school his name was associated with was bound to be a success. After his experience with the Vandalia school he associated himself with Prof. G. W. Brown, in the Decatur Business College, remaining there three years. Our subject then took charge of the bookkeeping department of Brown's Business College at Peoria, Illinois, which he ably conducted for three years, after which he came to the Centralia Business College in the fall of 1898. Each of the above schools has been highly successful and has turned out thousands of pupils well prepared to play their parts in the business and commercial world. The patronage that Prof. Douglas C. Brown now enjoys is largely due to his own outlay of time, talent and business sagacity, coupled with indomitable energy and persistency. The average daily attendance and the enrollment of the school in Centralia is two hundred each year. The pupils who have graduated in this school have and are constantly taking good positions in the various branches of business for which they have prepared.

The domestic life of our subject dates from October 12, 1881, when he was united in marriage with Maud Bryan, the accomplished and refined daughter of Samuel and Harriett (Hartman) Bryan, of Xenia, Illi- nois. To this happy union six children have been born, named in order of birth as follows: Clyde L., William H., Harriet M., Harry, Dean C. and Robert E. Clyde L. married Carrie Scheiber, of Peoria, Illinois. Harriet married O. A. Rosborough, William H. is in the United States navy at this writing (1908), being a yeoman, or bookkeeper and stenographer in the office of Admiral Sperry of the flagship Connecticut.

Mr. Brown owns a modern, commodious, nicely furnished and pleasant home in Centralia, which is frequently the gathering place for numerous friends and admirers of the Brown family, each member of .which is noted for his hospitality and cordiality.

In politics our subject is a Prohibitionist. In religious matters he supports the Christian church. He is a most companionable gentleman arid all who come within the range of his influence are profuse in their praise of his admirable qualities, and the high regard in which he is held not only professionally but socially indicates the possession of attributes and characteristics that entitle him to the highest esteem.

The gentleman whose name forms the caption of this sketch did not seek any royal road to the goal of prosperity and independence, but began in legitimate ways to advance himself and the result is that he is now numbered among the successful newspaper men of Southern Illinois, having devoted practically his entire life to the management of an old and popular paper, the Democrat, published at Centralia, and he has been a molder of public opinion, having been a faithful defender of the rights and interests of the people of this vicinity at all times.

C. D. Tufts was born in Centralia, Illinois, January 27, 1864, the son of Samuel - P. and Zerelda (Goodwin) Tufts, the former having been born in Fitchburg, Massachusetts; January 28, '1827. The latter was born in Indiana October 6, 1833. They were married October 4, 1857, in Marion county, Illinois. Four of their children are now (1908) living, namdy: Gay L. ; C. D., our subject ; Elsie M., and1 Zerelda D. Elsie M. married Ray Greene, of Sterling, Illinois. They have no children. Samuel P.« Tufts passed to his rest October 4, 1903, at the age of seventy-six years. His widow^ is still living and enjoys excellent health; she is a woman of beautiful Christian character, being a member of the Baptist church.

The early education of C. D. Tufts was obtained in the Centralia high school, in which he graduated in 1882. He has published the Democrat since 1883, having had charge of the office since then. His father was formerly the editor of this paper, which was established in 1869. Samuel P. Tufts had charge of the paper when it was burned out in 1871, and he re-established it as a weekly. It has been conducted as a daily and weekly since 1892. The circulation has gradually increased from the first until it now consists of one thousand and two hundred on both the daily and weekly. The paper has always been popular with the people of Marion county, having been a faithful defender of the local interests. It is ably and carefully edited, and the news service is prompt and of the best. The mechanical appearance of the paper shows that the best and most modern equipment is used in the plant.

Mr. Tufts has been honored with many official positions, all of which he has discharged with ability. He was president of the Board of Education of Centralia for one term, also president of the Illinois Press Association for one term. During Governor John P. A^tgeld's administration he was private secretary of the Lieutenant-Governor for a period of four years. He was a member of the Democratic State Central Committee and is at present Master in Chancery of Marion county. He has long been an able exponent of the principles of the Democratic party and his support can always be depended upon in furthering the local interests of this party.

In his fraternal relations, Mr. Tufts is a member of Centralia Lodge No; 201, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons; Centralia Council, No. 93, Royal Arch Masons ; Centralia Council, No. 28, Royal and Select Masters; Cyrene Commandery No. 23, Knights Templar. He is in command of the Commandery. Mr. Tufts is also a member of Centralia Lodge No. 394, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks ; also a member of Helmet Lodge No. 26, Knights of Pythias,

Mr. Tufts is a man of sunny disposition, affable, approachable and makes friends easily, which he 'has no trouble in retaining. While strong in his views, he is always willing to be fair and is candid at all times and under all circumstances. He enjoys an extensive acquaintance all over the state of Illinois among men of all classes, and he is held in high favor by all who know him for his honesty of purpose, pleasing manners and the future to such a man cannot help but be replete with abundant success.

Thomas L.'Joy

Examples that impress force of character on all who study them are worthy of record. By a few general observations may be conveyed some idea of the high standing of Thomas L. Joy, as a business man and public benefactor, or, an editor of unusual felicity of expression and whose wonderfully facile pen delights thousands of readers, although now retired from the active affairs of everyday life and spending the last half of his years of strenuous and eminently useful life in the enjoyment of the peace and quietude to which he is so justly entitled, and which he has so nobly earned. United in his composition are so many elements of a solid and practical nature, which during a series of years have brought him into promi- nent notice, and earned for him a conspicuous place among the enterprising men of the county of his residence, that it is but just recognition of his worth to speak at some length of his life and achievements.

Thomas L. Joy, retired editor of the Evening Sentinel of Centralia, Illinois, was born in Equality, this state, September 15, 1850, the son of Ephraim E. Joy, a Southern Illinois Methodist preacher of wide celebrity. He raised a company in 1862 for the purpose of taking part in the Union service. It was assigned to a regiment of Illinois volunteers. Mr. Joy was ordered to Fort Douglas to be sworn in as captain of the company. Upon reaching the place he received the sad news that his wife was lying at the point of death. This cut his war record and he hastened home to his dying companion and two little sons, Andrew F. and Thomas L. The grandfather of the subject was a Baptist minister whose work was also confined to the southern part of this state. The Joy family has been well known and influential in the affairs of the southern part of the Prairie state since it was first settled.

The early education of Thomas L. Joy was obtained in the district schools and small towns, as his father itinerated from place to place. His last school was at Shiloh, St. Clair county. He received a fairly good education, which was later supplemented by extensive home reading and by coming in contact with the world.

Mr. Joy served his apprenticeship as a practical printer in St. Louis, Missouri, with the Woodward and Tiernan Printing Company, of that city. Being a young man of great energy and executive ability, Mr. Joy established the Carmi Times, at Carmi, Illinois, with his brother, Andrew F. Joy, in 1872.' Our subject, who made a success of this venture, later sold his interest to his brother, Andrew F. Joy, in 1882. In 1880 the Joy brothers established the Cairo Daily and Weekly News. Thomas L. took full charge. In 1881 he closed out the paper and returned to Carmi and later purchased the Mt. Carmel Republican, which he conducted for over five years, with his usual success. He came to Centralia October 20, 1888, and bought one-half interest in the Sentinel; the firm name was then Joy & Hitchcock, the firm continuing for five months, when Hitchcock retired, H. F. Tillman taking his place, continuing for a period of two years, at the expiration of which time our subject bought his interest and continued to publish the paper with increasing success until 1906, when he leased his paper to his son, Verne E. Joy. The latter took complete charge of the business on January i, 1907.

While engaged on the Sentinel Thomas L. Joy, for a period of five years, published the Sandoval Times, a weekly paper at Sandoval, Marion county, which was liberally patronized. He also published the Odin News and the Patoka Enterprise, each a weekly paper, with a good, active circulation. Mr. Joy was a very busy man in overseeing all these papers, but his wonderful executive ability, his capacity for the accomplishment of a vast amount of work and his persistent qualities enabled him to carry them all to successful issue, and he was for many years the molder of public opinion in Marion county, and became known as one of her foremost and most influential citizens. He is still a regular contributor to the Sentinel. His articles are terse and pithy - always interesting. He enjoys his quiet home life in his beautiful home in Centralia, where hospitality and good cheer are always dispensed. He is an admirable conversationalist and keeps abreast of the times in all matters.

The domestic life of Thomas L. Joy dates from September 14, 1873, when he was united in marriage with Lizzie V. (Lockwood) Joy, of Wayne county, Illinois. She is the refined daughter of William and Elizabeth (Wiley) Lockwood, of Wayne county, Illinois, long well known and influential in their community.

Our subject has always been a stanch Republican and ever ready to foster the principles of his party, doing what he could to insure the success of the same in his county and his counsel has been frequently sought and in the affairs of the party at home. In religion he follows his father's early training.

J. F. Knight

Mr. Knight has long maintained his home in this county, and while he has been benefited himself in a very material way through his efforts in a varied line of work, he has ever done what he could in the upbuilding of the community at large, and today he stands as one of the substantial and foremost citizens of Sandoval, where he is held in high favor by everyone.

J. F. Knight was born in Wenona, Illinois, May 23, 1867, the son of John and Susan (Ingersoll) Knight. The subject's grandfather, a native of Pennsylvania and of German lineage, was a farmer and lived and died in the old Keystone state. He was the father of eight children, all of whom lived to maturity. Eli Knight was a soldier in the Civil war, having enlisted jn a Pennsylvania regiment and served three years. His brother, Thomas Knight, was also a soldier in the Federal ranks. They were both Lutherans in their church relations. Grandfather Knight lived to an advanced age, and grandmother Knight reached the age of ninety-four years. Grandfather Ingersoll was from New York. He came to Illinois in the fifties and settled in Wenona, where he lived the balance of his life, having reached the great age of ninety-six years. Grandmother Ingersoll met death in an unfortunate manner, by being killed when sixty-five years old.

The father of our subject was raised in Pennsylvania, and after his marriage to his first wife he came to Illinois and settled in Wenona. While in Pennsylvania he worked at the miller's trade, but after he came to Illinois he worked at farming, and he reached the age of fifty-two years. The subject's mother lived to be sixty-four years old. She was a member of the Christian church. Three children were born to John Knight by his first wife, and the same number by his second. He was a Democrat and served as County Clerk in Pennsylvania.

The early education of the subject of this sketch was obtained in the schools of Marion county. He later attended the Southern Illinois Normal School, where he gained a good education, having applied himself in a diligent manner to his text-books. Taking the advice of Horace Greeley, who told the young men of the East to seek their fortune in the West, Mr. Knight went to California after he left school, and for some time kept books. But he later returned to Illinois and worked his father's farm for a period of seven years, then bought land in Marion county and sold live stock, and later engaged in the livery business in Sandoval, which he conducted for seven years. He owns an excellent farm in this county, consisting of one hundred and fifty acres of highly improved land. He also owns another farm which he rents, having the management of the first mentioned. Mr. Knight was also engaged in the ice business for a period of fourteen years. He owns ten houses in Sandoval. which he rents, and ilso owns a beautiful and modern residence. All this he has made practically unaided, having been a careful business man and exercised the best of judgment in all his business transactions.

Mr. Knight was united in marriage in 1891 to Stella Reinhardt, a native of this county, and the daughter of Charles and Frederick (Deitz) Reinhardt, natives of

Germany. Mr. Reinhardt came to America in an early day and settled in Marion county. He was a weaver in the old country, but took up the baker's trade here. There were five children in his family.

Two children have been born to the subject and wife. The first, Merle, was born in April, 1893, and is in high school at this writing, 1908. The second, Norman, was born in 1896. They are both bright and interesting children.

The subject is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, also the Knights of Pythias and the Woodmen, having passed all the chairs in the Odd Fellows. In his political relations he is a Democrat, and has long taken an active part in his party's affairs. He is at present Township Supervisor and has been Tax Collector. He was president of the Village Board for three terms, and he was Alderman for several terms. In his official capacities he gave the people of this community the best possible service and gained the approval of all.

The medical profession in Marion county has an able representative in the subject of this review, who is to be considered one of the leading physicians of the community of Sandoval, where he at present maintains his home, where he has long been established in practice. He has been closely identified with the civic and social affairs of Sandoval and he controls a large and representative prac- tice throughout this part of the county, where he is held in the highest esteem as a physician and surgeon and as a publicspirited and loyal citizen.

Dr. James Hunter was born in Randolph county, Illinois, in 1837, the son of Alexander and Martha (Kell) Hunter. Grandfather Hunter was from Ireland. He first settled in South Carolina after coming to this country, and it is supposed that he died there. In that state Grandfather Kell was born. He moved to Randolph county, Illinois, having devoted his life to farming. About 1830 he bought a farm there, settling among the pioneers, reared his family of two children, both girls, and died there at the age of sixty-seven years. He was a member of the Presbyterian church.

The father of our subject was born in South Carolina and came to Illinois when twenty-eight years old, settling in Randolph county, where he bought land and on which he lived until his death, which occured when he was twenty-nine years old. His wife passed away at the age of forty. Their family consisted of three children, our subject being the only survivor. Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Hunter were both members of the Presbyterian church.

Doctor Hunter was reared in Randolph county, Illinois, and attended the public schools there, working on his grandfather's farm in the meantime, until he was seventeen years old. He early decided that his life should be devoted to the healing art, and actuated by this laudable ambition he began the study of medicine under the direction and instruction of Dr. Hopkins, of Sparta, Illinois, having remained with him for one year. He then took two courses of lectures in the Eclectic Medical Institute at Cincinnati and began practice in Randolph county in 1858, where he remained with gratifying results attending his' efforts for a period of five years. He then located in another part of the same county, where he remained a short time.

Much to the regret of his patients and numerous friends in Randolph county, he moved to Newport, Kentucky, in 1864, and took up practice there, where he remained for four years, his success having been instantaneous. He located in Switzerland county, Indiana, where he practiced with most flattering results for a period of nineteen years, after which he came back to Randolph county, Illinois. He then spent five years at Irvington, Washington county, having come to Marion county in 1890, and has been practicing here ever since, having a lucrative business and a growing practice. To further qualify himself Doctor Hunter attended the medical department of the Nashville State University and graduated from the same in 1879. Recently the doctor was appointed to the chair of Theory and Practice in the Hypocranium Medical College, a night school in St. Louis.

Doctor Hunter was married in 1857 to Miss N. J. Askins, of Sparta, Illinois. Two of Mrs. Hunter's brothers were soldiers in the Civil war, having enlisted from Illinois. They served their time out and were honorably discharged.

Six children were born to the subject and wife, four girls and two boys. The doctor has four grandchildren living. One of his daughters lives in San Francisco, California, another lives in St. Louis, one in Boston and another in New York. They are all well situated in reference to this world's affairs.

Our subject is a Mason and a Woodman. He has filled most of the chairs in the Masonic lodge. Both he and his wife are members of the Methodist church and are liberal supporters of the same.

Doctor Hunter takes an active part in politics, having been a liberal supporter in the Democratic ranks all his life. He has faithfully served his community as Justice of the Peace for the past twelve years. What his hands and mind have found to do he has done with his might, and having attained a commanding position among his contemporaries, he wears his honor in a becoming manner and is today one of the prominent citizens of Marion countv.

Henry R. Hall

The gentleman whose name initiates this paragraph is numbered among the successful and representative business men of Marion county, his attractive home being located at Sandoval, Illinois. In all the relations of life he has ever been found faithful and true, performing his duty unflinchingly, however distasteful it may be, looking to the welfare of the community at large while advancing his own interests.

Henry R. Hall was born in Monroe county, Georgia, May I, 1842, the son of Charles and Mary (Swift) Hall. Grandfather Hall was born in Vermont and moved to Portage county, Ohio, in 1818, where he died, having lived to middle age. He was the father of seven children, all of whom lived to maturity. His death occurred about 1827. He devoted his life to farming, having entered government land, on which he reared his family.

The father of the subject, who was born in Vermont about 1804 and died in 1856, attended the district schools in his native state and went to Georgia when a young man, where he married, later moving to Tennessee, dying shortly after he arrived there. He was a shoemaker by trade and there were three children in his family who lived to maturity. William S., a brother of the subject, was a soldier in the Civil war, having enlisted from Marion county in the Eleventh Illinois Volunteer Infantry, having served with distinction for a period of two years, when he was discharged for inability, and then joined an Ohio regiment, but was again discharged for disability contracted while in line of duty, from which he afterward died. The father and mother of the subject were Methodists. The mother passed to her rest at the age of sixty-three years.

The early education of the subject was obtained in the subscription schools in Georgia and later for a short time in this county, having been fifteen years old when he arrived in Marion county. He worked on a farm for his uncle for one year, then as a farm hand, at which work he continued for three years, after which he served for three years as an apprentice to a shoemaker, which he followed for two years, then clerked in a store.

Having' taken an interest in public affairs from the first and showing himself capable of successfully filling public offices, he was elected and served in a most praiseworthy manner as Sheriff of Marion county for two terms, also two terms as Circuit Clerk of this county.

After leaving his public work he became secretary of the Sandoval Coal Mining Company, which position he held with credit to himself and with the utmost satisfaction to his employers for a period of eleven years.

After severing his connection with this company he bought out two lumber firms, which he still conducts, having built up an extensive trade in the same and becoming known as one of the leading lumber dealers in this locality. Since assuming charge of these firms he has added all kinds of building material and his customers are numbered in all parts of the county and in adjoining counties. He is also in the hay and grain business, which forms no small part of his income.

Mr. Hall was united in mariage October 2, 1865, to Eliza J. Wolfe, a native of this county. Her father, a farmer and blacksmith, was a native of Pennsylvania, and her mother of Marion county, Illinois. Mrs. Hall had three brothers in the Civil war, two having enlisted from this county and

Eight children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Hall, namely: Carrie E., who was born in 1866, is the wife of Charles B. Merritt, and the mother of four children ; Nellie J. was born September 17, 1868, and is the wife of D. E. Tracy; May was born in 1870 and is the wife of Addis Bryan, cousin of the Hon. W. J. Bryan, and they are the parents of three children; Martha was born in 1872 and is the wife of Robert Belamy, being the mother of one child; Charles W., who was born December n, 1879, is married and has three children, being associated with his father in business. The rest of the subject's children died in infancy. Both Mr. and Mrs. Hall and their children are members of the Christian church. In his fraternal relations our subject is a member of the Masonic Order, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, having passed all the chairs in the latter.

In politics he is a Democrat, having served twice, or a period of seven years, as Constable of Kinmundy township, and was for two terms Alderman of Kinmundy, during which time he fulfilled his duties to the letter and became widely known as an efficient public servant. He was Mayor of Salem for one term, during which the city's interests were carefully guarded and many improvements and public utiilties added. He was for some time School Director of the Salem schools, having been connected with the local school system for years and has long been greatly interested in educational affairs; in fact, anything that tends to better the county's condition. He is President of the Board as well as Director of Sando val schools, and is Trustee of the township schools. He is president of the Building and Loan Association of Salem, and also of Sandoval.

The subject of this sketch has gained prestige in the healing art, which is always the outcome of close application and the ability to apply theory to practice in the treatment of diseases. Good intellectual training, thorough professional knowledge, have made the subject of this review successful in this chosen calling, having been in practice here for over a quarter of a century, during which time he has built up a lucrative patronage.

Dr. G. W. Downey was born in Princeton, Indiana, March i, 1832, the son of William and Anna (Davis) Downey. Grandfather Downey, who was a millwright, which trade he followed all his life, was born in Ireland, came to America and settled in Virginia, where he spent the remainder of his life, and where he reared his children, being survived by six children, who lived to maturity. There were three ministers in the family. Grandfather Davis, who was also from Ireland, came to America and settled in Tennessee, later removing to Indiana, where he spent the remainder of his days, devoting his life to farming, living to an advanced age and rearing a family consisting of four daughters.

The father of our subject, who was born in Virginia, moved to Indiana when he reached manhood and followed his trade, that of millwright, having learned it from his father, but feeling that he was called to higher work, he abandoned this and developed into a Cumberland Presbyterian minister of considerable notoriety, living to be over sixty years old. He was the father of twelve children, of whom the subject of this sketch was the youngest. The wife of Rev. Downey passed away at the age of sixtyfour years.

Doctor Downey attended school in Indiana and when a young man worked out as a day laborer, his family being poor, making it necessary for him to earn his own living, but while somewhat unpleasant, it was good discipline for him and he developed an individuality which made greatly for subsequent success. Saving what he could with a view to obtaining a higher education, he was enabled in a few years to enter college at Newberry, Indiana. Believing that his true life work lay along medical lines, he began the study of medicine in Indiana. He took a medical course in Chicago and later in Iowa, having made a good record for scholarship in both.

Our subject practiced medicine for a period of four years before the breaking out of the Civil war, in which he took conspicuous part, having been one of the patriotic volunteers who went forth to battle for the nation's rights. He enlisted in October, 1861, in Company F, Fifty-sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and served two years. He was in the great battle of Corinth, having been through the siege there ; also took part in other engagements and marches in which his regiment participated, and was discharged on account of disease contracted while in line of duty.

After the war our subject returned to practice, locating in Hamilton county, Illinois, later removing to Washington county, then to Marion county in 1882, and has been in practice here ever since. Wherever he has practiced he has left an honorable name and a reputation as a high class physician and a conscientious citizen.

Doctor Downey was united in marriage in 1858 to Margaret Pace, daughter of Joseph Pace, whose people were originally from Kentucky. Seven children were born to our subject and wife, two of whom are deceased. Those living are: Annie, the widow of Cyrus Hamilton; Homer is married and has two children ; Ada is the wife of a Mr. Knox and the mother of three children ; Corrine is married and has one child; George is the fifth child and youngest. A singular coincidence in the history of the Pace family is the fact that Mrs. Downey's grandmother on the father's side of the house fell and broke a hip; Mrs. Downey's father also fell and broke a hip ; later his twin brother broke his hip in a similar manner ; then his daughter fell and broke her hip; later Mrs. Downey's brother fell and broke his hip; finally Mrs. Downey fell, breaking her hip, from which she has become a life cripple. In each case it was the right hip.

and honorable Masonic fraternity. Both he and his wife are members of the Methodist church, the latter having been a church member since she was fourteen years old. In politics Doctor Downey is a Republican, and he has the interests of his community at heart, ever laboring for its development along political, religious and educational lines. His comfortable and well furnished home in Sandoval is frequented by his many friends and those of the family, and holds high rank in this community.

Alfred Livesay

Although the unmarred life-chapter of the subject of this sketch has been closed and the seal set thereon forever by the "grim reaper," his influence for good still perv.ades the lives of those with whom he was associated, for his life was led along high planes of endeavor and resulted in not only the accomplishment of good for himself and family, but also his neighbors.

Alfred Livesay was born in Tennessee February 15, 1822, and when seven years of age he came to Washington county, Illinois, at the age of seven years, and in about 1866 he came to Marion county, locating in Patoka township. Our subject was the son of John Wesley and Margaret (Lyons) Livesay, both natives of Tennessee, who came to Marion county, Illinois, where they spent the remainder of their lives, dying on the same place on which they settled.

Our subject made nearly all the improvements of his place, having been a hard worker and an excellent manager. He was always a Democrat, but never sought public office. Entering the ministry, he was a Methodist preacher for several years, doing much good and becoming widely known as an earnest expounder of the Gospel, but he gave up preaching quite a while before his death, abandoning the ministry owing to failing health. He had the distinction of serving one year and one month in the Mexican war, during which he contracted sickness from which he never fully recovered. He was a farmer and an extensive stock raiser and was highly successful at his work wherever it was applied, being a man of good judgment and always industrious. He was a cousin of Dr. Thomas Livesay, one of the leading physicians of Marion county and a man respected by all.

After receiving such common schooling as the times afforded our subject worked at various things, principally farming, until he married, February 26, 1846, in Washington county, Hannah Logan, who was born in Washington county September 30, 1830, and to this union the following children have been bom ; William T. married Eliza Seward and are the parents of four children and live in Stanley. Iowa; Elizabeth R. is single and takes care of her mother; Isaac B., who married Leticia Rock and who has two children, lives in Kansas ; Pearl married Joseph Larimer and they are the parents of two children ; Hester A. married Perry Davidson, of Marion county, and she is the mother of five children ; Ransom

P. married Louisa Suter and they are the parents of five children; Marshall A. married Rachael Walton and they have nine children; Liddie, deceased, married Robert Quale, and they are the parents of two living children and two deceased; Harvey R. married Mollie Chick and they are the parents of five children ; Allen H., who remained single, died when forty- four years old ; Daniel R. married Laura Cruse and they have three children; Etta married James Smith and they became the parents of eight children, four of whom are living; Clinton O. marreid Elvira McHaney and they became the parents of seven children, one of whom is deceased.

Alfred Livesay departed this life, after a strenuous and useful career, on April 22, 1883, honored and respected by all who knew him, and his place in the neighborhood has since been greatly missed, for he was a good and useful man, who, while laboring to advance the interests of himself, did not fail to do what he could in promoting the welfare of the public. He left his family about six hundred acres of well improved land. Mrs. Livesay now manages in a most successful manner one hundred and thirty-four acres, all under a high state of cultivation. She is a woman of rare business tact and ability, although she is now well advanced in old age, and she has a wonderful memory and is an interesting conversationalist. She draws a pension of twelve dollars per month. She is held in high esteem by the people of Patoka township for her many commendable traits of character and beautiful life.

A happy combination of praiseworthy characteristics is possessed by the subject of this review, who is one of the best known business men of Odin township, Marion county, whose interests he has ever sought to promulgate in whatever way he could, believing that it is the duty of each citizen to foster the good of his community while he is advancing his own interests, occupying as he does a conspicuous place in the annals of Marion county's history by reason of his work in connection with the various lines of development it has experienced.

F. D. Secor was born in Bernadom, Illinois, December, 1846, the son of Philetus and Mary O. (Lovell) Secor. Grandfather Secor, who lived in New York state, and who was of French lineage, supposedly of Huguenot extraction, spent his days on a farm in the Empire state, rearing a large family. Grandfather Lovell moved from Vermont to Illinois and settled in McDonough county, having passed the remainder of his days in this state and died there. He was a merchant and a miller and an all-round good business man. His death was due to an accidental disease. In his family were three children.

The subject's father, who was born in the state of New York, after receiving a common school education, took a course in a medical college, 'from which he graduated and became a noted physician and surgeon, having come to Illinois when he left college, settling in Fulton county. In 1865 he came to Marion county, where he continued in practice until his death in 1872. He always attended the Presbyterian church because his wife was a member of this denomination; his leaning was toward Methodism. He was a member of the Masonic fraternity. His wife passed to her rest at the age of seventysix years. The subject of this sketch was the only child that survived infancy.

F. D. Secor, our subject, attended the public schools when a boy in McDonough and Fulton counties. He was a clerk in a store for several years, later engaged in various lines of business and finally became secretary and superintendent of the Odin Coal Company, which he held to the entire satisfaction of the company for about twentythree years. He was one of the directors of the company from the start, having been its secretary and superintendent, and is at present vice-president, treasurer and director. He is at all times careful and exercises sound judgment. He is the owner of one of the finest residences in this part of the state, making his home in the same. The grounds surrounding it are well laid out and covered with beautiful trees and shrubbery. Mr. Secor is the owner of two very valuable and highly improved farms in this county, one of which is rented, the other being managed by him, and no small part of the ample income which he enjoys is derived from these farms, which are well stocked and very prolific in the production of all kinds of grains and fruits.

BRINKERHOFF'S HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY, ILLINOISshe was educated, being a woman of fine tastes. Two children have been born to this union, namely: Julia, who is living at home, and Charlotte, also a member of the family circle. The subject's wife is a faithful member of the Presbyterian church.

In politics he is a Republican, although he takes considerable interest in politics he has never aspired for public office, being content to spend his time in the development of his business interests. As may be inferred from what has already been said, he is a man of much force of character, whose good judgment seldom directs him otherwise than in the right course.

William Boles

No farmer in Marion county carries on his work in all its diversified lines with more careful discrimination and foresight that tends to definite success, than the gentleman whose name appears above, who has developed a fine farm in Raccoon township.

William Boles was born in Scott county, Indiana, July 8, 1847, the son of Hugh and Letha (Reed) Boles, the former a native of Scott county, Indiana. They both grew up in that county and married there. The subject's parents came to Jefferson county, Illinois and settled on a farm on Grand Prairie in 1855. Mr. Boles died and his wife passed to her rest in 1905. She married a second time, her last husband being Marcus Faulkner, of Kentucky. He was Justice of the

Peace for many years and a prominent man. They lived for many years in Washington county, this state, where Mr. Faulkner died. His wife died in Marion county. She was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Boles were the parents of seven children, namely : Minerva, who is living in Blossom, Texas ; Joseph is a farmer in Jefferson county, this state ; Jane is deceased; Alice is also deceased; William, our subject; Mary, deceased; Ella, deceased.

William Boles had only a limited chance to attend school. However, he attended the common schools until he was sixteen years old, when he yielded to his patriotic spirit and enlisted in the Union army on July 3, 1863, having enlisted in Company B, Sixtysecond Illinois Volunteer Infantry in Washington county, Illinois, having been mustered in at lagrange, Tennessee, on August 23d, serving as a private, under Colonel James M. True and Captain H. P. Ingram. He was detailed to guard government mules and do general guard duty. He was discharged March 6, 1866, at Little Rock, Arkansas. His regiment was assigned to the Second Brigade, Third Division, Sixteenth Army Corps, later to the Seventh Army Corps. In 1865 he moved from Columbus. Arkansas, to Tennessee. He did guard duty near Crockett Station, with headquarters at Kenton. He was with the troops that pursued General Forrest for about twenty miles, later pressing him to the Tennessee river opposite Clifton. They marched to Ft. Gibson, Cherokee Nation, Indian Territory, where they did garrison duty, and were irt

Our subject was united in marriage December 22, 1870, to Julia A. Telford, of Boyd township, Jefferson county, this state, the daughter of John and Sarah M. (Boggs) Telford. They were married April 27, 1848. The former is a native of South Carolina and the latter of Marion county, Illinois. Her father was a native of North Carolina. He was six years old when he came with his parents, Joseph and Patsy (Craven) Telford, both natives of South Carolina. They came to Marion county, Illinois, in 1830 and settled in Raccoon township, being among the first settlers there, where they developed a farm and where they both died. They were the parents of eleven children, two of whom are living in 1908. Matthew is living in Dix township, Jefferson county, and Elizabeth, the widow of Josiah Jacobs, is living in Marion county, Illinois.

John Telford, who spent nearly all his life in Jefferson county, this state, was a farmer, a well known and highly esteemed citizen. He died January 28, 1898, and his wife passed away January 5, 1902. Three children were born to them, namely: Julia Ann; Joseph C., a farmer living in Raccoon township; Charles R., a farmer living on the old place in Jefferson county. The subject of this sketch and wife have four children living and two deceased, namely: John A., a fanner in Jefferson county. Grand Prarie township. He married Elizabeth Satterfield and they have eight children. Minnie, the second child, is the wife of Ira Sanders, living in Boyd township, Jefferson county, and is the mother of four children; Claude C. married Mecka Burge. He is a farmer and real estate dealer in Raccoon township and they have three children. Flora, the subject's fourth child, is the wife of Morris Fisher, of Centralia. She is a milliner and dressmaker. The subject's children were educated in the home schools, Flora being educated in the St. Louis high school.

In 1870, after the subject's marriage, he located in Raccoon township, Marion county, where he secured forty acres of land in section 32. By thrift, industry and good management he has added on to his original farm until he now has a vary valuable and highly productive place, consisting of one hundred and seventy-seven acres. He has made all the improvements on the farm on which he does a general farming business and raises fruits of all kinds. In 1885 Mr. and Mrs. Boles went to Finney county, Kansas, where they remained for two years, then returned to Marion county, where they lived ever since.

William H. Dobbs

The following record is that of a man who has been willing to toil and apply his talents in a tireless and persistent manner in order to gain success ; consequently he is

William H. Dobbs was born on Tennessee Prairie, Marion county, this state, August 12, 1843, the son of William and Martha (Farmer) Dobbs, both natives of Tennessee, who grew up and married in that state and came to Marion county, Illinois, in an early day. He devoted his life to farming and died in this county in about 1845. His wife married a second time, her last husband being John Bundy, a farmer. They lived in Raccoon township, this county. The subject's mother died in Jefferson county and John Bundy died in Raccoon township. Five children were born to the subject's father and mother, namely: Lavina, married a Mr. Brown and moved to Texas; Eliza maried Israel Fout, and they are both deceased ; John, who was a farmer, died in 1893. He married Mary Rush, who still lives in Jefferson county, this state. Martha and William H., twins, were the youngest children. Martha married Eli Watkins ; they are both deceased.

The subject's mother had two children by her second marriage, namely: one died in infancy, and Elizabeth, who married John Mercer, and who is deceased. They lived in Raccoon township.

The subject had only a limited chance to go to school. However, he attended a subscription school and lived with his folks until his step-father, John Bundy, died, when he went to live with his brother, John, in Jefferson county, this state. Our subject was one of the brave sons of Illinois who went forth in the Union ranks to save the nation during the dark days of the sixties, having first enlisted December 15, 1861, in Company E, Sixty-second Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and was discharged December 23, 1863, at Little Rock, Arkansas, but re-enlisted the following day in Company E, the same regiment, and went through the war as a private, never being wounded or taken prisoner. He first went to Cairo, Illinois, and then to Paducah, Kentucky, where he remained for three weeks, then to Columbus, Kentucky, and marched to Kenton, Tennessee, and on to Lagrange. Then went to Jackson, Tennessee, and Holly Springs, Mississippi, and returned to Jackson after the capture of Holly Springs by the Confederates. Then to Memphis and on to Little Rock and helped capture that place and was at Pine Bluff ten months doing garrison duty. He came home on a thirty days' furlough, and when he returned to his company and regiment the former veteranized at Pine Bluff, where he remained on garrison duty until July 28, 1865, and was ordered to Fort Gibson, Cherokee Nation, Indian Territory. He went on the steamer "Gain" to Fort Smith, arriving there August i, 1865, where the company boarded the steamer "Anna Jacobs." When they reached the fort they were placed on garrison duty. They started to Little Rock on February 20, 1866, to be mustered out, having marched fifteen miles, encamping at Green Leaf Creek, Indian Territory. They marched twenty miles the second day, marched twenty miles the third day, sixteen miles the fourth, arriving at Fort Smith February 27th, where they boarded the steamer "York" and started for Little Rock, where they were mustered out March 6, 1866. He went by the steamer "Lady Franklin" to Pine Bluffs, then to Memphis, to Cairo, then to Camp Butler, Springfield, Illinois. The subject was under Capt. L. L. Humphrey, and he was discharged March 6, 1866, at Little Rock, Arkansas.

After the war the subject came home and on May 27, 1866, married Barbara Ann Rush, of Jefferson county, Illinois, the daughter of Crawford and Malinda (Coppie) Rush, the former a native of Indiana, and the latter of North Carolina. They were pioneers of Rome township, Jefferson county, where they lived on a farm. Both died there. They were the parents of nine children, who grew to maturity, five of whom are now living, namely : Elizabeth married Enos Copple and they live at Wagner, Oklahoma ; Mary married John Dobbs, brother of the subject, who is deceased, but she is living in Jefferson county, this state; Phoebe is single ; Riley is a farmer in Rome township, Jefferson county ; Barbara Ann, wife of our subject. The rest of the children died single. Six children have been born to the subject and wife, namely: Charles E., who married Clara Cruzen in 1898, is a carpenter, mason and a mill man in Centralia township ; Rosie, who married T. M. Faulkner, of Centralia township, has ten children living and two dead; Zellie, who married J. D. Grove, of Indianapolis, Indiana, is the mother of three children;

Alta married Wiley Copple and they live in San Bernardino, California, being the parents of four children; John served in the regular army, having been a member of Company E, Fourth Regiment, for three years. He was in the Spanish-American war, and is now living in the West. William Ora, the sixth child, lives in Southern California.

After their marriage the subject and wife located in Rome township, Jefferson county, this state, where they bought a farm. In 1879 they came to Centralia township, Marion county, and bought sixty acres, where he now lives, having built his home in 1880, and he made all the other improvements on the place. He has a fine country home and an excellent farm, well improved in every respect, and he carries on general farming, raises fruits of all kinds, and keeping good horses, cattle and hogs, it being his aim to keep all his stock well bred. He has always been a farmer and long considered one of the best in the county. He and his good wife started in life with but little property, but being hard workers and economical they have gained definite success.

Jacob Copple

It is hard for the present generation to properly appreciate the brave deeds of the "boys in blue," who sacrificed so much on the altar of patriotism during the sixties, but as years go by the immensity of their

BRINKERHOFF'S HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY,, ILLINOISdeeds will be realized to a fuller extent and each veteran will be accorded full measure of credit and praise. The gentleman whose name appears above is a member of this great number of patriots.

Jacob Copple was born in Clark county, Indiana, December 23, 1835, the son of Andrew and Christina (Fine) Copple, both natives of North Carolina, who were among the pioneers in the vicinity of Walnut Hill, Illinois, where they lived for a short time, then moved to Raccoon township, Marion county. He secured wild land and developed a good farm, on which he and his wife both died. He was a Democrat, but held no office, and an active member of the Christian church. The subject's mother was twice married, first to James Snow, and she had two sons by this marriage, William and James, the former a farmer and the latter a minister in the Christian church for many years. They are both deceased.

Four children were born to Andrew Copple and wife, namely: Jacob, our subject; John L., deceased, who lived in Raccoon township on a farm and was also a blacksmith ; Simpson is living in Hood River, Oregon, a retired farmer; Mary Elizabeth is the widow of Robert Sanders, who lives in Raccoon township.

Our subject had only a limited amount of schooling in his youth, but he became selfeducated and he taught five terms of winter schools in a most successful manner. He was married in March, 1856, to Malinda F. McCullough, a native of Tennessee, the daughter of Thomas McCullough, of Tennessee, who were among the early settlers in Jefferson county, Illinois, having located on a farm. Mr. McCullough lived to be over eighty years old. His wife survived him, dying in 1844. The subject's wife died November 20, 1901. Seven children were born to them, five of whom grew to maturity, namely: Rebecca J., who married J. H. Creed, and who lived in Centralia township, died in 1884, after becoming the mother of three children; Charles L., a hotel keeper living near Portland, Oregon, is married and has four sons: Theopolis V., a farmer living in Raccoon township, is single; Samuel A., a farmer in Raccoon township, married Florence Copple and has three children; George F., deceased, married Minnie McMillin, and became a farmer near Walnut Hill. These children were educated in the home schools and are all fairly well situated in reference to business and homes.

Mr. Copple, as already intimated, was a soldier during the war of the Rebellion, having enlisted on April 6, 1865, in Company H, Fifty-third Illinois Volunteer Infantry. He first went to New York City, being sick with the measles, and came home in 1865, and was sick until the spring of 1866. He had moved to Jefferson county, Illinois, in 1 86 1, and he lived there until 1881, when he moved to Raccoon township, where he bought the Robert Rainey farm. His fine farm now consists of one hundred and twelve acres and he carries on general farming, and stock raising in a most successful manner, having his farm highly improved and carefully tilled. He has always been a farmer and has taken much interest in public affairs. He has been School Director and he cast his first vote for Abraham Lincoln, but since 1876 he has been a Populist and he has the splendid record of having been a member of the Christian church for the past fifty years. Our subject has been retired since 1900, when he bought a home in Walnut Hill, where he has since lived.

Joseph Porter Root

One of the venerable and highly respected citizens of Marion county is he whose name appears above, a man whose life has been led along useful and conservative lines, resulting in good to those with whom he came in contact and resulting in success to himself and family.

Joseph Porter Root was born August 4, 1828, in Orange county, Vermont, the son of King and Elizabeth (Bacheldor) Root, both natives of Orange county, Vermont, the former's father and mother also being natives of that county. Jethro Bacheldor was the subject's maternal grandfather. He and his wife were both natives of New Hampshire. The subject's father, who grew up and married in Vermont, was a very active man, a great drummer, and a farmer by occupation. Both he and his wife died in Vermont ; the latter was a member of the Free Will Baptist church. The former was a Democrat. They were the parents of thirteen children, twelve of whom grew to maturity and married. The subject had one brother, Lawton, a farmer, who came west in about 1838, going to Chicago and down the Mississippi river and through Southern Illinois and in two years went back to Vermont.

The subject of this sketch, who received only a limited schooling when a boy, lived at home with his parents until he reached manhood. In early life he worked as a turner at the lathe and made tool handles. In 1852 he came west unaccompanied and located in Marion county where Centralia now stands. The country was then wild and he has seen the development of the community, taking no small part in the great work. There was no railroad in the county when he came here. He went into partnership with Robert Hensley in 1854 and put up a steam sawmill on Fulton creek, the first mill in that locality. Lumber was sawed here for the Illinois Central Railroad Company to be used in the construction of round houses, shops and buildings in general. Our subject operated the mill for about two years, when he sold it and went into partnership with Josiah Gilkey and they made wheel barrows and such implements by hand and later took up painting. He secured land and started to make a home.

Our subject was united in marriage on June 14, 1856, to Sarah Ann Stradley, of Ashville, North Carolina, who was born November 20, 1832, the daughter of David and Mary (Bruce) Stradley, the former having been born in England and the latter in North Carolina. Mr. Stradley was sent

BRINKERHOFFS HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY, ILLINOISby a syndicate to Mexico to look after their interests in a silver mine, and he remained there three years. He had relatives in North Carolina, where he went and in which state he was married, and later came to Marion county, Illinois, settling in Centralia township, where he got land, where he and his wife both died.

After his marriage our subject lived in Centralia township, having cleared land and made a good and comfortable home and where he lived in ease until the death of his wife, since which time he has lived among his children. Eight children were born to the subject and wife as follows: Mary E., born August 8, 1857, married Oliver P. Moore; they live in Jefferson county, Illinois, and are the parents of eight children, one deceased. Erastus S., the second child, was born September 20, 1859, married Celia Wood ; they live in Centralia, this county, and are the parents of eight children, two being deceased; King David was born October 24, 1 86 1, married Orphelia Van Houten, and they are the parents of four children and make their home in Centralia; Charles Burdette, who was born September 11, 1863, married Edith Creed; he is a farmer and teacher in Centralia township, being the parents of three children, one child being deceased. Joseph Elmer, the fifth child, was born May 8, 1866, is a farmer in Centralia township, married Mary Bates, and they have three children living and one dead. Jethro Bacheldor, the sixth child, was born March 4, 1870, and married Mollie Burge, of Centralia, and they have five children. Ella B. was born April 25, 1872, married Lloyd Burge, living at Hyattville, Wyoming, and they are the parents of three children; Cyrus, the youngest child, was born October 6, 1878, married Grace Burge, of Marion county, Illinois, the daughter of Jarrett and Susan (Warren) Burge, both of this county. They were of Virginia and Tennessee stock. Jarrett Burge lived all of his life in Marion county, this state, on a farm. He now lives one mile east of Odin. His wife died in January, 1904.

Mr. and Mrs. Cyrus Root are the parents of three children, namely : Earl, Evelyn and Lavinia. Our subject is regarded as one of the representative farmers of Centralia township, having always devoted his life to the farm. However, he has been practically retired since 1898. He is a Democrat; his wife was a member of the Baptist church. Mr. Root is a remarkably well preserved man for his advanced age, still hale and hearty. He is a great reader and is well posted. He started in life in a small way, but being industrious and a good manager, he has achieved success and is today one of the substantial men of the county.

Charles F. Dew

BRINKERHOFF'S HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY, ILLINOISwho by reason of his professional success has been honored from time to time with positions of responsiblity and trust. He also holds worthy prestige as a citizen, being interested in whatever tends to benefit his fellow men, and in matters of public import. His reputation as an influential factor and trusted leader is duly recognized and appreciated.

Charles F. Dew is one of Illinois' native sons and a descendant of an old Virginia family that was first represented in the West by his grandfather, Rev. John Dew, a Methodist minister of much more than local repute and one of the leading men of his church in the central and southern parts of the state. This eminent pioneer divine was the intimate associate and co-laborer of the celebrated Peter Cartwright, whom he assisted in evangelistic work among the early settlers, and his name frequently occurs in the latter's autobiography and personal reminiscences. He was not only an able and earnest preacher, but also a prominent educator and to his efforts more perhaps than to those of any other man is due the founding of McKendree College, of which he was the first president. Subsequently he served for many years on the board of directors of that institution and was untiring in promoting its interests by every means at his command. He migrated from Virginia in a very early day and settled originally near Trenton, Clinton county, but spent the greater portion of his time in ministerial work in different parts of the state and establishing churches, many of which are still in existence and flourishing organization.

Henry P. Dew, son of the above and father of the subject, was born in St. Clair county, Illinois, in the year 1833. He married in 1 86 1, Sarah C. Arrowsmith, whose birth occurred in June, 1838, and who bore him three children, namely: Edward, died in early years, Lulu, who also died young, and Charles F., whose name introduces this sketch. Henry P. Dew departed this life at Odin, Illinois, in the year 1872, his wife, who is still living, makes her home with Charles F., her only surviving child. The Arrowsmiths moved to Illinois from Ohio and were among the early settlers of Marion county, the parents of Mrs. Dew locating near Salem in 1848. Mr. Arrowsmith purchased land and in due time became a prosperous farmer and praiseworthy citizen. He reared a family of eight children, three sons and five daughters, and with his good wife has for a number of years been sleeping the sleep of the just.

Charles F. Dew was born March 20, 1866, in Washington county, Illinois, and received his preliminary education in the public schools, this training being afterwards supplemented by a course in the high school of Centralia, where he was graduated in 1883. Actuated by an earnest desire to add to his scholastic knowledge, he subsequently entered McKendree College, where he prosecuted his studies until completing the prescribed course and receiving the degree of Bachelor of Science, after which he engaged in educational work, devoting the ensuing ten years to teaching in the schools of Illinois, Missouri and Minnesota.

BRINKERHOFF'S HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY, ILLINOISas an educator, and while in the profession taught in the schools of St. Louis, Kansas City, and served for some time as superintendent of the public schools of Rush City, Minnesota, in the meantime receiving from his alma mater the degree of Master of Science. Although a natural teacher and fond of the work, he had no intention of making it his permanent calling. Accordingly, in 1893, he retired from the school room and began the study of law in the office of Judge William Stoker, of Centralia. After three years of close application, under the direction of that able lawyer and jurist, he took the required examination at Springfield and received his license to practice in the state and federal courts, his admission to the bar bearing the date of 1896. The year in which he was granted his license, Mr. Dew engaged in the practice of his profession at Centralia, and after experiencing the usual difficulties which beset the young attorney at the beginning of his career, he forged rapidly to the front among the successful lawyers of the city, and in due time built up a large and satisfactory legal business. His habits of study and concentration together with his previous experience as a teacher were greatly in his favor and he brought to his profession a well disciplined mind, which enabled him to grow in public favor within a comparatively brief period. In connection with the duties of his calling, he became actively interested in political affairs and it was not long until he acquired considerable political prestige, not only locally, but in district and state matters as well. In recognition of valuable political resources as well as by reason of his fitness for the position, he was elected City Attorney of Centralia, and so ably did he discharge his official functions that he was twice chosen his own successor. His record while looking after the interest of the municipality was without a blemish and compared favorably with those of his predecessors.

As a lawyer Mr. Dew stands deservedly high and his career thus far has been characterized by continuous advancement and a success such as few of his professional experience attain. He is well grounded in the principles of jurisprudence and by critical study has become so familiar with the leading authorities that he experiences little difficulty in applying his knowledge to practice or in successfully competing with older and more experienced men. He is regarded as a safe and judicious counselor, careful and methodical in the preparation of legal papers and all matters entrusted to him are sure to receive his earnest attention and to be attended to with promptness and dispatch.

Mr. Dew is a man of scholarly tastes and an influential factor in the literary life of Centralia. His office in the Ramer Building on North Locust street is not only frequented by clients and those deserving legal advice, but it is also a favorite resort of the intellectually inclined, for therein are frequently considered and discussed matters of high import in which only men of like tastes and inclinations have an interest. Mr. Dew is a member of the Masonic fraternity and the order of Woodmen, and the Methodist Episcopal church represents his religious creed. Although earnest in his views and with the courage of his convictions on all subjects, he is a man of liberal ideas and only requires the same respect for his own opinions that he accords to the opinions of those who may differ from him. Mr. Dew was happily married on the 25th day of November, 1908, to Hattie H. Porter, of Centralia, daughter of William and Rose R. (Ray) Porter, early settlers of Salem. Mrs. Dew's grandfather was one of the large land owners of Marion county and for many years a leading citizen of the county in which he lived.

Samuel Shook

The subject of this sketch has for many years ranked among the modern agriculturists of this section of the state, where his entire life has been spent, resulting in the accomplishment of a comfortable living for himself and family.

Samuel Shook was born in Centralia township, Marion county, September 15, 1845, the son of Amos and Martha (Shelton) Shook, the former a native of Pennsylvania and the latter of Georgia. Amos Shook came to Illinois when a boy with his uncle, Samuel Shook, and located near Belleville, when the present state was still a territory. The uncle procured land in Centralia township, being among the very first settlers here, early in the nineteenth century. He developed a farm, making a comfortable home. His neighbors were Indians and wild beasts, consequently he never went any place without his rifle. He spent the remainder of his life farming in Centralia township. He was a Baptist preacher, the first in the locality, preaching around in the homes in log cabins. Amos Shook, the subject's father, who had little chance to attend school, grew up in Centralia township and was a farmer all his life, a leading Democrat in his community, but held no public office. He was a member of the Christian church. He died in 1877, ar>d his wife passed to her rest in 1846. He was twice married, his second wife being Susan Whitchurch, of Centralia township, the daughter of William Whitchurch, of St. Clair county, this state, having been pioneers of that county.

Eight children were born to Amos Shook and his first wife, two of whom are now living, namely: Sallie, deceased; Martha Jane; Roanna, deceased; David, deceased; Lucy Ann, deceased ; James H., a farmer in Wayne county, Illinois; Morris, deceased; Samuel, our subject. Two children were born to Amos Shook and his second wife, Robert and Ivy, both deceased.

Our subject had only a limited schooling in the early subscription schools, but he made the best use possible of his opportunities and is today a well read man.

Mr. Shook was happily married March 9, 1865, to Julia A. Garren, of Jefferson county, Illinois, having been born there in 1846, the daughter of Alexander and Betsy (Copple) Garren, natives of Indiana, who

BRINKERHOFF S HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY, ILLINOIScame to Centralia township, Marion county, Illinois, having been pioneers of that locality. Mr. Garren died in Marion county and his wife's death occurred in Jefferson county. He was twice married, his second wife being Roxanna Hudlow, a widow. Four children were born to Alexander Garren and his first wife, namely: William, John, Eli, all three deceased ; Julia Ann, the subject's wife. The following children were born to Alexander Garren and his second wife, namely: Riley. who lives in Missouri; Robert and Phoebe, both deceased; Alexander, Jr., a liveryman at Walnut Hill ; Lewis, deceased.

Eight children have been born to the subject and wife, five of whom are now living, namely: Melvin, a farmer at Lane, South Dakota ; Albert, a farmer in Centralia township; Ira, deceased; Plannie, deceased; George, deceased; Frank, a farmer on the old home place ; Elmer, a farmer at Lane, South Dakota; Myrtle May, living in Centralia township.

After the subject's marriage he located where he now lives in Centralia township and erected a substantial house and barn and made all of the improvements on the place, which are extensive and equal to any in the county. He has lived on this place continuously since that time. He has always been a farmer and stock raiser, having been highly successful at each, being considered by his neighbors and those who know him as one of the leading farmers of the township and an excellent judge of live stock. He is a Democrat, but has held no offices. He is a member of the Christian church.

The subject is one of those patriotic citizens who felt it their duty to offer their services in defense of their country during the sixties, consequently he enlisted in 1864 in Company F, Forty-eighth Regiment, Illinois Volunteer Infantry, at Centralia. He was sent to Scottsboro, Alabama, and was wounded three times, first at Resaca, having been shot through the right shoulder. He was later wounded at Fort McAlister, having been shot through the right leg, at which battle he was also shot through the left thigh. He was under Sherman and Gen. John A. Logan in the Fifteenth Army Corps, Fourth Brigade and Fourth Division. He took part in all the battles and engagements of his regiment. After he was wounded he was first sent by boat to Bedford, South Carolina, later to New York, and then to Quincy, Illinois, where he was discharged May 13, 1865.

Mr. Shook is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, Post No. 55, at Centralia, Illinois; also a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at Walnut Hill, this state; the Knights of Pythias at Centralia, also the' Farmers' Mutual Benefit Association.

Edwin L. Welton

The record of a life well spent, of triumph over obstacles, of perseverance under difficulties and steady advancement from a modest beginning to a place of distinction in the industrial world, when imprinted on the pages of a history, present to the youth of a rising generation a worthy example. Such a life is that of the gentleman whose name appears at the head of this review, who is at this writing encumbent of the responsible position of postmaster of the city of Centralia, Illinois, and the able and conscientious manner in which he has ever looked after the interests of this city have called forth much praise from his fellow townsmen.

Edwin L. Welton was born at New Albany, Indiana, May 16, 1857, the son of Tandy and Mary E. (Carlan) Welton, the former having been born in Harrison county, Indiana, January 4, 1827, and is still living in the Hoosier state. The mother of the subject was born near New Albany, Indiana, in 1832. They became the parents of eleven children, of whom Edwin L., our subject, was the sixth in order of birth. There were six boys and five girls, seven of whom are living.

The early education of the subject of this sketch was obtained in the common schools of New Albany. He early began working on a farm and later in the Ohio Falls Iron Works at New Albany. He came to Marion county, Illinois, in young manhood without a dollar, but possessing courage and energy he set to work and his subsequent career has been a most successful one. He now owns a costly and well furnished home in Centralia, besides considerable other property in real estate, and his rental income pays over one thousand dollars a year on his investment. He arrived in Centralia February n, 1879.

After coming to this state our subject worked for the Illinois Central Railroad for a period of seventeen years and for thirteen years was an engineer on the road, having been one of the most trusted and efficient employes of this company. He also worked for some time in the nail mills of Centralia.

Our subject supports his aged father and mother, which he has done for years. He subscribed the first one hundred dollars for the erection of the present Catholic hospital erected in Centralia the latter part of 1908.

Edwin L. Welton first married Addie J. Andrews, of Centralia, October 17, 1882, by whom one son was born, Dwight E., whose birth occurred July 22, 1884. He lived eight months and seventeen days, having died in March. 1885. The subject's first wife passed to her rest October 15, 1887. Mr. Welton was married a second time, his last wife being Isabel H. See, the wedding occurring January 31, 1894. To this union five children have been born. The first died in infancy. The names of the others are Helen F., Frederick E., Winifred L. and Edna L., all living at home and attending school in 1908. Mrs. Welton is the daughter of C. M ^nd Anna M. See, of Alma.

Mr. Welton was elected Township Collector in 1902, the duties of which he faithfully performed, as he did also while serving as a member of the School Board of Centralia from 1887 to 1889. He was appointed postmaster of Centralia in 1903 and has faithfully continued to serve the people of this city under Roosevelt's administration, still being the incumbent of this office in 1908, and according to the consensus of opinion is one of the best postmasters the city has ever had, possessing as he does a remarkable executive ability and being of a pleasing address he is popular with all classes.

In politics our subject is a Republican, having always voted this ticket and done what he could in furthering the interests of his party. Fraternally he is a member of the Free and Accepted Masons, the Blue Lodge, also Chapter, Council and Commandery. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias, the Modern Woodmen and the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen. Both he and his wife are members of the Order of Eastern Star.

Our subject's people and also those of his wife were Methodists. Mrs. Welton is an active member of this church. Mr. Welton, while not affiliated with any special church, contributes liberally to the support of the Methodist church and worships there with his family, being a stanch believer in practical, every-day Christianity, a man of generous disposition who has always given his aid and influence to enterprises for the public good, and since becoming a resident of Centralia he has contributed largely to the material advancement of the city and to the social and moral welfare and he keeps abreast of the times jn all matters in which the public is interested. No act inconsistent with the strictest integrity has ever been imputed to him, nor has his name ever been connected with any measure or movement that would not bear closest and most critical scrutiny. Thus far his official career has fully demonstrated the wisdom of his friends in urging his selection for the position which he holds.

Father John H. Bruns

Although yet a young man the gentleman whose name introduces this biographical sketch has accomplished much toward ameliorating the condition of his fellow men, often laboring with disregard for his own welfare if thereby he might attain the object he sought - to make some one better, happier. Such a life as his is rare and is eminently worthy of emulation, being singularly free from all that is deteriorating or paltry, for his influence is at all times uplifting and thousands of people have been made better for having known him.

Father John H. Bruns, who has done such a commendable work in promulgating the interests of the Catholic church and school in Centralia, Illinois, was born in Borken, Germany, June 30, 1870, the son of Joseph and Adalaid (Rademacher) Bruns, being the oldest child of a family of eight children. He came to America in 1880. His early education was obtained in the common schools of Europe and partly at Pinckneyville, Illinois. Under the Franciscan Fathers at Tentrepolis, near Effingham, he studied the classics and graduated in 1891 with the degree of Bachelor of Arts and as the valedictorian of his class. He afterward took a degree, Master of Arts, in a school of philosophy at Quincy, Illinois. Then he took a tree years' course in theology at St. Francis, near Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Being ambitious our subject applied himself in a most assiduous manner to his studies and made an excellent record in all those schools.

Father Bruns was ordained to the priesthood June 16, 1895, and soon thereafter assigned to be assistant pastor at St. Peter's cathedral, Belleville, Illinois, where he remained for a period of eight years, having in the meantime accomplished much in the builing up of this organization and winning a lasting monument in the hearts of the people of that church. Fie was appointed pastor at Centralia August 20, 1903, and is at this writing, 1908, carrying on the work here with that discretion, energy and devotion that insures abundant success. Many improvements have been inaugurated since his coming, among which might well be mentioned the installation of a new and modern heating system in the church and school, an addition to the school building, costing about three thousand and one hundred dollars, the purchase of a cemetery at a cost of one thousand and five hundred dollars, also the purchase of a hospital site at a cost of four thousand dollars. He has labored faithfully in the building up of the church and the school, the former now representing one hundred and sixty families, and there are at this writing one hundred and fifty-six pupils enrolled in the school.

Three teachers are employed and the course includes the eighth grade work and a complete course of bookkeeping. Six sisters are employed to take care of the sick. When the work on the new hospital is completed a large number of sisters of the highest efficiency will be constantly engaged to care for the sick and those who are brought for treatment. The church building is one of the handsomest in the city and would be a pride to any city, having cost fifty thousand dollars. The parsonage cost four thousand dollars, and the school building proper cost five thousand dollars, the second floor of the school building having an elegant hall and stage, where entertainments and other exercises are held, such as socials for the church and the school. The original building of the hospital will cost when completed about twenty-five thousand dollars. It will be so built that new additions can be added without marring the beauty and unity of any part.

It has been no small task to do what Father Bruns has done. It required much hard work and a zeal and perseverance that only those who were closely connected with and took active part in the work of the parish can clearly understand and appreciate. Beside the business end of the work, he has been busy in building up the parish and raising the spiritual standing of the congregation, which is now in a good condition, both temporal and spiritual.

BRINKERIIOFF S HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY, ILLINOISbusiness tact and energy, as well as a spirit of devotion to his church. His acts, both spiritual and temporal, have met with the united approval of his own people and all others. But these are too well known to require further detailed mention, and the writer knows that whatever of good the reverend priest may have accomplished he would far rather have it engraved on the hearts of the people than to be put into print, and that the approval of his own conscience and of his Divine Master are the reward he wishes for his labors in behalf of the church.

Hexry L. Rhodes

No compendium such as the province of this work defines in its essential limitations will serve to present in detail the interesting life career of the subject of this sketch who is well known in Marion county, where he has long maintained his home, being now a retired railroad man and a leading member of the Free and Accepted Masons, No. 101 - a man who is entitled to the respect of his fellow men owing to the well ordered life he has led.

Harry L. Rhodes was born at Port Jarvis, Orange county, New York, May 24, 1829, the son of Simeon and Jane (Mc- Daniels) Rhodes, the latter of Scotch-Irish ancestry, the former a native of New York and of German ancestry. Two children were born to them, Henry L., our subject, being the oldest of the two. When eight years old our subject went on the tow path where he remained for ten years. When eighteen years old he was captain of a boat on the Erie canal. After he entered the service of the Erie Railroad which was taking the place of the boat, and was afterward conductor for seven years on the New York & Erie Railroad. In April, 1856, he came to Centralia and was conductor on the Illinois Central Railroad for a period of thirtyfour years, then retiring to private life. He gave these roads the very best of service and was regarded by them as among their best and most trusted employes. By his economy and industry and his judicious investments, he acquired a handsome competence and is now considered one of the wellto-do men of Centralia, where he has a good home, nicely and comfortably furnished. His success has been worthy his honorable business career.

Henry L. Rhodes married in Port Jarvis, New York, in 1853, to Sarah E. Smith, and the following children have been born to this union : George H. ; Libbie is the wife of B. F. Statlemeyer, of St. Louis; William A. died in St. Paul, Minnesota, when twenty-three years old.

Our subject came to Illinois in 1856 and began railroading as a passenger conductor on the Illinois Central, where he remained for a period of forty-three years. He was also train master for six years.

Mayor of Centralia which office he very ably and acceptably rilled for two terms. He exercises the franchise of men and measures of the Republican party, and he feels a deep interest in all political affairs and is well informed on all the leading issues of the day. He has been a frequent delegate to the county, congressional and state conventions, and in 1896 was a delegate to the Republican National Convention.

Mr. and Mrs. Rhodes attend the Presbyterian church at Centralia, which they liberally support. Mr. Rhodes is a Master Mason, having filled all the stations in the local Blue Lodge. He was made mark master, past master, most excellent master and Royal Arch Mason of No. 93 ; then council of No. 28, having filled the highest offices of these illustrious masters for five years. He went to the Commandery and served six terms as eminent commandery of the Scottish Rite, thirty-third degree, and as a life member served as sovereign grand and inspection general in the thirty-third and last degree. Mr. Rhodes is one of Centralia's best known men.

Lewis H. Reed

The subject of this sketch has well earned the honor to be addressed as one of the progressive, public-spirited men of Marion county, since from the beginning of his residence here he has been conspicuously active, securing for himself the comforts of life and home and an ample competence for his declining years. Mr. Reed's home is at Centralia, where he is engaged in the drug business and wherever he is known he is held in the highest esteem owing to his life of honor and industry.

Lewis H. Reed was born in Vermilion county, Indiana, December 20, 1849, the son of John W. and Sarah (Ralston) Reed, the former having been born August 3, 1822, in Stokes county, North Carolina. He came to Indiana in 1832 with his parents, whose family consisted of six children, five boys and one girl, of whom the subject of this sketch was the third in order of birth. His mother was born February 7, 1827, in Brown county, Ohio, near Georgetown, and she came to Indiana when quite small, her family having located in Vermilion county. She was one of a family of five children, being the youngest child. John W. Reed was a Republican and a member of the Methodist Protestant church. His wife was a Presbyterian in her youth, having been so reared, but later in life became a Methodist Protestant. There were eight children in the family of the parents of our subject, six boys and two girls, the subject being the oldest in order of birth. '

Lewis H. Reed was educated in the public schools of Vermilion county, Indiana. He worked on his father's farm until twenty years old. He then entered Ascension Seminary in Sullivan, Sullivan county, Indiana. After obtaining a good education, having made a splendid record for scholarship in the last named school, he began teaching, which profession he followed with great success for a period of ten years, during which time he became well known as an able educator and his services were in great demand, having taught many successful terms in both Illinois and Indiana.

Believing that a better field for his talents was to be found in the drug business he entered the same on March 28, 1879, in St. Bernice, Indiana. He continued in the drug business at St. Bernice until 1888, having built up an excellent trade and making a success of the business from the first. During that time he held the office of postmaster under President Rutherford B. Hayes, having begun in May, i88i,and continued the same with much credit to himself and to the entire satisfaction of all concerned for five years, five months and fifteen days, when he resigned and moved to Mississippi, having remained one winter at Ocean Springs. In 1889 he removed to Centralia, Illinois, and held the office of Town Clerk for two terms, in a manner that elicited praise on every hand.

Mr. Reed is still in the drug business, having one of the best equipped and neatest stores in Centralia and he has an excellent patronage numbering many customers throughout the county. Owing to his courteous treatment of customers and his intimate knowledge of the drug business his trade is always all that could be desired.