McDonough County, Illinois - Biographical sketches (1 of 3 so headed), 1878 (part 1 of 2)

Biographical sketches

Although McDonough county may not have furnished as many men eminent in the counsels of the nation as some other localities, yet there are a few names not entirely unknown to fame, some of whom have attained eminence at the bar, some in the sacred desk, proclaiming the unsearchable riches of Christ, some upon the battle field, yielding up their life's blood in defense of their country ; while still others, as merchants, doctors, lawyers and tillers ot the soil, have toiled on, content to remain in obscurity, having the love and confidence of their family and those by whom they are or were immediately surrounded. In this connection we give sketches of such of our fellow men as were easily obtainable, and who, as a whole, will represent faithfully the spirit and progress of our county.

Larkin C. Bacox

This gentleman is a son of Joseph B. and Agnes (Couch) Bacon, both of whom were native Tennesseeans. Larkin himself was born in "Washington county, that State, on the second day of May, 1818.

The circumstances of the senior Bacon, at the time of Larkin's birth, were good, but through unfortunate speculation in the grain and stock trade, he met with severe reverses and was considerably injured in property. Soon thereafter he moved from his native State to Missouri, and, after a four years' residence in that State, came to McDonough county, Illinois, where he arrived in March, 1834, settling upon section 20, Tennessee township, and where he continued to reside until death called him away.

education consists in that derived from the common schools of the community in which he lived, and instructions received at the hands of Isaac Holton, who, for a number of years, conducted a high school at Hillsgrove, in this county.

Larkin's general character in youth was excellent, lie then possessed moral qualities which have adhered to him ever since, through all the vicissitudes of life. It is said of him that he never uttered an oath - never took the name of his God in vain.

He has always been a farmer, but in addition to the ordinary duties of farm work, has for twenty-five years past been dealing in stock. All the grain that he raises upon his farm is consumed in feeding hogs and cattle for the market. He chose agricultural pursuits because he had been reared to them, and never had any disposition to engage in any other business.

In the cause of education Mr. Bacon has always taken great interest, and has done much to advance its interests in the community in which he resides. For about twenty-five years he has held the office of School Trustee.

He has never changed his place of residence but three times, removing, as previously stated, from Tennessee to Missouri, and from Missouri to Illinois, settling with his parents on section 22, on which a portion of the town of Tennessee now lies, and from thence to his present place of abode on section 20, which latter change occurred in December, 1842.

On the twenty-sixtli day of December, 1841, Mr. Bacon was united in marriage to Miss Honore Durbin, who, after a companionship of twenty-three years, departed this life. She was a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church for a number of years, and died possessing a hope of a future reward. On the twentieth day of October, 1864, Mr. Bacon was again married, the lady being Mrs. Louisa (Latimer) Meek, of Abingdon, Knox county. Xo family in the community is more universally esteemed than that of Mr. Bacon.

When Mr. Bacon began life for himself he had but little of this world's goods, receiving from the estate of his father, we believe, about forty acres of land; but he had the courage and the will necessary to success, which, combined with extreme caution, has placed him in the front rank of the farmers of McDonongh county. He has been successful in business affairs, as is evinced by the well stocked farm on which he resides, one of the best improved and carefully managed in the county. He makes few, if any, mistakes, in his business ventures, and usually judges correctly upon every matter requiring an outlay, and if he ever errs, it is on the safe side. In his nei2:hboihood he is res-arded as a most excellent iinancier.

Mr. Bacon has been a professor of the Christian religion from a youth up, having united with the Baptist Church when about nineteen years of age, with which body he retained connection until the congregation where he held membership was broken np in consequence of the removal of its members from the vicinity, when he united with the Methodist Episcopal Church, in 1845 or 1846, since which time he has held in that body the offices of trustee, class leader, and superintendent of the Sunday School, in which latter capacity he has been very active.

It has always been characteristic of Mr. Bacon to seek retirement rather than publicity, and for that reason he has never occupied the public positions in life he is so well calculated to fill.

Since writing the foregoing Mr. Bacon has passed from earth, departing this life on the twenty-fourth of October, 1877, leaving a large family and many relatives and friends to sincerely mourn his loss. But he was prepared to go ; death to him had no fears, and now within the limits of the unseen world he awaits the comino; of other loved ones.

Major Thomas A. Brooking

The genealogy of the Brooking family can be traced back through several generations, those bearing the name filling honorable and responsible positions in society for several years. The grandfather of the subject of this sketch on both his father's and mother's side was Colonel in the revolutionary war, while his father, as well as himself, bore an honorable part in the war of 1812.

Thomas A-lexander Brooking was the second son of a family of eleven, eight daughters and three sons, and was born in Kichmond, Xottaway county, Virginia, on the twentieth day of January, 1795. His parents were Thomas Vivian and Elizabeth (Sherwin) Brooking, the latter being the daughter of Colonel Samuel Sherwin, of revolutionary fame. But little is known of his early history, save that every opportunity was given him to obtain such education as would fit him for a useful station in life. He attended a good classical school in Chesterfield county, A^ir- giiiia, under charge of Prof. Ferguson, a noted teacher in his day, and afterward under Prof. Smith. lie then went to Manchester, A'irginia, and entered a school under charge of Prof, O'Reil}-, one of the best classical scholars in the State. When he com[)leted the prescribed course in this school, he returned to Richmond, Virginia, and entered the law ofhce of Hon. Alexander McRae, one of the most talented lawyers in the city, where he pursued his studies for a suflicient length of time to enable him to pass a satisfactory examination and obtain admittance to the bar. On receiving his diploma, he removed to the State of Kentucky for the purpose of engaging in practice, but for some cause he abandoned the idea of making the legal profession a life business, but the knowledo:e obtained through his readino; was beneticial during life. On the breaking out of the war of 1812 the elder Brooking enlisted as a private, and when cut some months he was recalled home to attend the bedside of a dying sister, the government accepting the services of the son (of whom we write) as a substitute. Though quite young, he performed his duty faithfully in the service of his countrv.

A few months before reaching his majority, as previously stated, he removed to Kentucky, and settled in the town of Versailles, where he engaged in the mercantile trade. Here he formed the acquaintance of Miss Mary Louisa Threshly, which soon terminated in love, and the ofter of his hand and heart in marriage ; accordingly, on the twenty-lifth day of January, 1816, the young couple were duly married. The tie thus formed remained unbroken until severed by the death of Mr. Brooking in 1858. Thirteen children were they blessed with, six of whom have passed on to that other shore, seven 3^et living to fill responsible stations in life. One of the number, Edward Brooking, lost his life in the service of his country, as a member of the 137th Regiment Illinois A^olunteers. Of the number now living, William is a large farmer, living north of Macomb; A, Y. is a farmer and stock dealer; R. S. is a trader ; Mrs. Jane Randolph, widow of the late William II. Randolph, lives in Macomb ; Mrs. Augusta Palmer lives in Palestine, Texas ; Mrs. Lucy Snyder lives in Carrollton, Mo. ; Mrs. Julia Randolph, wife of J. IL Randolph, of Fort Scott, Kansas.

Shortly after his marriage, Mr. Brooking returned to Richmond, Va., where he remained three years, after which he located in I^nion county, Ky., where he leased the celebrated Sulphur Springs, continuing in its charge five years, when he removed to

Princeton, Caldwell county, remaining there until the fall of 1834, when he made his tinal removal to McDouough couut\', settling in the town of Macomb. By a series of unfortunate ventures in Kentucky he lost his entire fortune, and came to this county a poor man but with a determined will and the intention of retrieving all. On his arrival here he engaged as a teacher of a select school, continuing the same until the following spring. For two seasons followins: he enc-acred in the manufacture of brick north of town, on the site of Oak wood Cemetery, after which he removed to the old farm now owned by his son, William T. Brooking, where he remained until the spring of 1850, when he purchased the old hotel on the west side of the square, which he carried on for some years.

lu 1835 Major Brooking made a profession of religion and united with the Methodist Episcopal Church in Macomb, with which body he retained connection uutil death, and was very active in the cause; indeed, this was his nature; whatever he undertook to do enlisted all his sympathies and all his energies. In his death the church in Macomb lost one of its^most'usetul members.

In politics. Major Brooking was an old-line Whig as long as the party had an existence. Henry Clay, that honored son of Kentucky, had in him a warm supporter and friend, and every principle of that old party had a response in his breast. With its death he became identified with the Republican party; although his life was not loiig spared after its oganization, he yet had the supreme satisfaction of voting for its first candidate for President. Although born in Virginia, and in that State and Kentucky spending the greater part of his life, he yet was an anti-slavery man, and was never afraid to express his sentiments. Save that of Justice of the Peace, he never held public ofHce, preferring the retirement of private life, though often solicited by friends to become a candidate. Contrary to his expressed will he was placed in nomination by the AVhigs in 1849 for County Judge, but it being the "off year" of the AVliig party he was defeated. Had he been elected, he, no doubt, would have discharged the duties of the ofKce to the satisfaction of his constituents.

Major Thomas A. Brooking was a large portly man, kind hearted and benevolent in the extreme. He was a man who enjoyed life, and whatever may have been the turn in fortune's wheel it made no perceptible change in his deportment. His doors were always open to the poor and needy, and the hospitalities of his house were ever extended to his friends, and his kind invitations were often accepted. It was his pride to exercise true Virginia hospitality. During his life in McDonough county he made many warm friends who will ever bear him in grateful remem- V)rance. On the twenty-fifth of Fehruar}', 1858, he was called to his long home. But he was prepared to go and could unfalteringly say when the dread summons came, "Thy will be done, 0, Lord." He was buried on the old homestead, the services being conducted by the Masonic Order of Macomb, of which body he had for many years been a consistent member. His loved companion tarried upon this side of the river for nineteen years when she too, passed away, leaving a large circle of friends and relatives to mourn her loss.

The fatlier of the subject of our present sketch was Thomas A. Brooking, one of the pioneer settlers of old McDonough, who came to the county in the fall of 1835, and here lived, honored and respected by all, until the day of his death, which occurred in 1858. His mother's maiden name was Mary L. Threshly ; she but recently departed this life at a ripe old age.

Alexander Vivian Brooking was born at Sulphur Springs, Ky., on the 26th day of February, 1829, and with his parents came to this county in 1835, being at that time but six years of age. He, tlierefore, may well be classed as one of McDonough county's sons. A short time before they left Kentucky his father met with misfortune, losing his entire property; and, like many others determining to build up again, sought new iields of labor, and selected McDonough county as the basis of his operations, and removed here as above stated, arriving with only one span of horses and twenty-six dollars in money. The early life of "Viv.," as he is familiarly called by those who are intimate with him, was passed upon a farm, and in attendance on the common schools of the county. The first school which he attended was taught by T. Lyle Dickey, then a young law student, and now one of the Supreme Judges of the State. On the farm, four miles north of Macomb, he spent twenty-nine years of his life, or until he was thirty-three years of age, when he removed to Macomb, embarking in the livery business. Here he has since remained, engaged in the above business, and also for many years having charge of the well known Randolph Hotel. During this time he has never aban- doned the farm, but has continued in charge of it, overseeing the raising of the crops year by year, and improving it greatly. In one thing he has always been especially noted, and that is in his love of fine stock, and in this branch of business he has devoted much time and the expenditure of thousands of dollars. Several ot the most noted horses ever in the county were his property. The great improvement manifest to all in this respect is due in a great measure to him. lie was the originator of the Stock Association of the county, being the first to suggest the idea, and worked hard to bring it to a high standard, succeeding beyond his expectations.

On the twenty-seventh day of August, 1851, he was united in the bonds of matrimony to Miss Elizabeth 11. Randolph, daughter of Benjamin F. Kaudolph, by whom he had five children, two of whom are now living. Mrs. Brooking died on the twenty-ninth day of August, 1862. He again married on the twenty-first day of April, 1864, this time to Miss Elizabeth Butler, of Knox county, Illinois, the fruits of the marriage being five children, one of whom is dead.

In the home circle Mr. Brooking is kind and affectionate, enjoying the confidence and love of his entire family ; in public he enjoys the respect and esteem of all who know him ; in business affairs he calculates closely ; never hastily jumps at a conclusion, generally weighing the matter carefully in his own mind, and when a conclusion is arrived at, he can be depended upon. Strange as it may seem to a man in his walk of life, surrounded by those who view the matter in a different light, he has never taken a dram of liquor in his life, and never voted for license. He makes no boast of his temperance principles, however; does not condemn unmercifully those who differ with him, but always consistently practices his belief. It is related of him that on one occasion, when the State fair was held in Chicago, he was on a committee of which Long John AYentworth, General Singleton and others were members, and having a meeting in one of the rooms of a hotel, liquor was brought in, and he was pressed to partake. Declining respectfully, he told them he never had partaken of liquors of any kind, and desired never to do so. Long John, then so full he could hardly stand, staggered across the room, and slapping him on the shoulder, said : "That's right, my boy ; never do." And he never has. Neither has he ever

William K. Bolles, the father of the subject of our present sketch, is a " true-blue Yankee," having first seen the light of this world in Xew London, Connecticut, in the year 1807. His mother, Sarah (West) Bolles, is a native of Xew York, her birthplace being in Hillsdale, Columbia county. She was also born in 1807, there being only two or three months difference between her age and that of her husband. Their son Edgar, of whom we now write, was born on the twellth day of January, 1837, in Sandusky county, Ohio, whither his parents had immigrated some years previous. When he was but six weeks old. desiring to better their condition in life, his parents emigrated to Lagrange county, Indiana, traveling the entire distance in an oldfashioned lumber wagon drawn by oxen. Here they remained for fifteen years, or until 1852, suffering greatly from the chills and fever of that malarious district. They now determined on returning to Mrs. Bolles' native county, which they did, remaining there one year. The mountains and rocks were too much for them, however, and they again decided to try the West, choosing this time the fertile prairies of Illinois. They came direct to this county, and settled in Blandinsville township in 1853, afterward removing to Emmet, where the old folks yet remain.

The farm has been the great nursery of nearly all the best men of the country, and here Edgar passed his boyhood and youth, acquiring strength of mind and body, which fit him for the discharge of the duties of his chosen profession. In spring, summer and fall, from the time he v/as old enough to be of assistance, he was compelled to labor, and in the winter was allowed to attend the common country school. Thus his life was passed until he reached the age of twenty-one. During all this time there was a growing desire in his heart to occupy a higher position in life, to receive an education that would fit him for future usefulness. As soon as he reached his majority he at once made preparations to attend the Seminary in Blandinsville, an institution at that time of some importance. Here he pursued his studies for two years, acquiring a pretty thorough English education, enabling him to pursue the profession of a teacher, which he had chosen as a stepping stone to that which should follow after. For seven years thereafter he engaged in this work, teaching in the winter, when a school could be obtained, and clerking in the summer. In this way he obtained means for the principal object he had in view from the first - the study of medicine, which profession lie desired to adopt as a life work.

In Au2:ust, 1853, he first besran to read medicine with Drs. Huston & Hammond, in ^lacomb. As may well be understood from what is previously written, he could not pursue his studies uninterruptedly for the want of means. In the fall of 1868, he was considered far enough advanced to attend lectures, and having saved enough from his labors to pay his tuition for the term, we therefore find him in attendance in Long Island Hospital College, Brooklyn, Xew York. Here he remained during the term, returning home in the spring, and engaging in teaching the next fall. He now determined to enter the Detroit Medical College, Detroit, ]Michigan, as a more thorough and suitable institution, which he did, and passing through the prescribed course, received, in the spring of 1870, the degree of "Doctor of Medicine and Surgery." On graduating, he returned home, taught school another term, and returned to Detroit in the fall, and assisted Professors "Weber and Jeuks during the college term of 1870-71, in tlie chairs of anatomy and diseases of women and children. At the close of the term he concluded to remain a short time in Detroit, and entered the ofiice of Dr. Jenks as assistant, remaining with him some months. Becoming somewhat dissatisfied with the practice in that city, he returned to Illinois in the fall of 1860, and located at Pennington's Point, in this county, where he yet remains. During the first year or two of his stay at the Point he engaged in teaching as well as in the practice of his profession. In thus doing, he made enough money on which to live while building up a self-sustaining practice. Something over six years have now elapsed since he entered upon the duties of his profession, and he now enjoys a practice second to but one or two, and probably second to none in the county. ]!!s'ight and day are his services in demand, and his success as a physician has been remarkably 2:ood.

On the fifteenth day of May, 1872, Dr. Bolles led to the marriage altar Miss Fannie Penrose, of Macomb, with whom he lives in a pleasant home at the Point. Two children have been born unto them, one of whom soon passed over to the other side of the river of death.

In the career of Dr. BoUes there is an excellent lesson for young men. Inheriting not a dollar, and at the age of twentyone without a penny to begin life, he worked his way for two years through a good high school, obtaining an education to fit himself for a teacher, which profession he adopted as a temporary expedient to enable him to obtain means to pursue a course of study for the medical profession. Entering a medical college, he soon graduated w^ith high honors, and is now recognized as one of the leading physicians in the county. To enable him to accomplish all this he spent about two thousand dollars, every dollar of which he secured by hard labor. And yet there are hundreds and thousands of young men who utterly bewail their fate, and say they can't advance.

Dr. Bolles is a tall, athletic looking man, full six feet, black hair and eyes, solidly built, usually in the enjoyment of perfect health. His powers of endurance are very great, especially fitting him for the life of a physician. As a man, the doctor enjoys the respect of all who are acquainted with him; his social qualities commend him to all alike. In the home circle he is kind and gentle in the extreme. We believe a brio^ht future is yet before him.

Aloxzo Barnes

Alonzo Barnes, son of Truman and Laura (Xeale) Barnes, was born in N^ew Hartford, Conn., on the tenth da}'' of May, 1825. "When but a mere child his parents removed to Xew Ilaven, in the same State, where they remained until the year 1838, when they came West, their son accompanying them, and settled in Canton, Illinois. From the time he attained the right age, until the removal of his parents from ISTew Ilaven, he attended the Lancasterian school in that city, obtaining a fair common school education, since which time he had the advantage of but one winter's term of school. The desire for a thorouo^h education was very great with him, but his parents were unable to gratify his longing. This, however, did not deter him from the effort to acquire knowledge, and we find him at home, after the labors of the day were ended, studying to advance himself in the knowledge of the science and literature of the day. On his removal to Canton, as every youth in the land should do, he learned a trade, choosing that of cooper, becoming quite proficient in the business.

When seventeen years of age, by permission of his parents, he left home to care for himself, Avith a determination to succeed in life if it were possible. He commenced work in the timber, cutting and splitting rails at fifty cents per hundred, and cutting saw logs at twelve and a half cents per log, securing in this way the small amount of cash which served as a basis for all his future operations. One thing may here be remarked of him, and that is, he has alwa^^s obeyed the scriptural injunction, "AVhatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with all thy might." In thus doing success hath crowned his efforts.

In boyhood and youth he enjoyed the confidence and respect of his elders, keeping aloof from the degrading and demoralizing habits in which the young are liable to be led. It is said of him, no oath ever passed his lips, and that he was never known to speak a wilful falsehood. At fifteen years of age he united with the Baptist Church, in Canton, and was baptised by Elder jSTewell in that city. During all the intervening years he has ever been a consistent member of that denomination of Evangelical Christians, ever taking an active part in the practical duties devolving upon the members of the body of Christ. He was one of the first deacons of the Baptist Church in Prairie City, and has held the office up to the present time.

In June, 1849, he was united in marriage to Miss Maria L. Parker, of Canton, 111., by whom he has had eight children, five of whom are now living, three having passed " over the river," and, upon the other side, are " watching and waiting" for those who yet remain.

In 1852, with his father-in-law, he engaged in the mercantile trade in Canton, under the firm name of Parker & Barnes; which relation was continued until his removal tcr Prairie City, in 1854. When he removed to the latter place none of the signs of thrift were there which are now discernable. The prairie in all directions was in its wild state, but few farms having been brought under cultivation. How different now. iSTot an acre, not a rod, but what is enclosed. Mr. Barnes, on his removal here, engaged again in the mercantile trade, he having the honor of bringing to the town the first general stock of goods. We believe he has, without intermission, continued in a like business up to the present time. He also entered at once upon the work of building up and adding to the industries and business interests of the place. With Major Parker, he laid out the first southern addition to the town of Prairie City, and alone has expended more money in buildings than any other person in the town. His own private residence and its surroundings is one of the linest in the township, and probably not surpassed by any in the county. He was the first postmaster in the town, and held the ofiice for ten years, attending faithfully to its duties when it was more annoyance than profit. In 1855 he was elected justice of the peace, and also received the appointment of IS'otary Public, one or both of which he has held continuously ever since. lie has also held the office of township treasurer for about ten years. As before remarked, Mr. Barnes is a man of great determination, and who will allou' no obstacle to stand in the way of success. He is a genuine Yankee, showing the habits of thrift belonging to that class. Starting in life at the age of seventeen, without a dollar, his only capital being two strong arms,he has succeeded beyond that of hundreds possessed of far greater advantages. Young men should profit by his example as a citizen. None stand higher in the community than Alonzo Barnes, and none more than he deserves the good will of all. As a husband and father, he is kind, pleasant and forbearing, providing for the necessary wants of all with a liberal hand.

James M. Campbell

The subject of the present sketch is of Scottish descent, his grand parents on both sides having been born in Argyleshire, Scotland, from which place they emigrated in 1773, before the beginning of the revolutionary war, and settled in the State of Virginia, where his father, JohnR. Campbell, was born. His mother's maiden name was Margaret F. Self, and she was likewise a Virginian by birth. About the beginning of the present century his parents removed to Frankfort, Ky., where, on the twenty-second day of August, 1803, James Morrison Cam})bell was born. AVhen about four years of age his parents removed to Muhlenberg county, Ky., where they remained for two years, going from thence to Shawneetown, 111., in 1809, In the campaign against the Indiaus, in the war brought on through British instigation, our country at that time being engaged in the war of 1812, the father of Mr. Campbell went out as Lieutenant of Hangers, serving several years. In 1815, when peace was declared, Lieutenant Campbell failed to return home, when Mrs. Campbell, supposing him dead, returned at once to their old home in Frankfort. Here they had remained but a short time before the husband and father returned. At this time James M. was a lad of twelve years of age. Up to this time the opportunity had not been given him to attend school but a few months, and having a desire to obtain a greater knowledge of his mother tongue, he was sent to the Frankfort Seminary, then under the superintendency of Keene O'Hara, an eminent scholar and strict disciplinarian, whose reputation as an instructor of youth had extended throughout the State. Here he remained about four years, obtaining such education as was thought at that time to be necessary to enable one to make his way in the world.

In 1822, he received the appointment of Deputy Postmaster, under James W. Hawkins, Postmaster of the city of Frankfort, and as noble a man as ever lived. With Mr. H. he remained five years and a half, when, thinking he could better his fortune, he resigned his position to go to Lexington, in the same State. A few days after he arrived at the latter place, he received a mail bag, which, on opening he discovered an entire suit of broad-cloth clothes, and a note informing him that they were a present from his friend Mr, Hawkins. Not succeeding in Lexington as he desired, he returned to Frankfort where he remained another year, when in the spring of 1828 he went with his father to Shelby county. Ivy., where he remained until the following winter, when he started for Galena, in this State, but went to iS"ashville, Tenn., where he spent the winter and spring following and in August, 1829, he arrived at the place of his destination. Here he entered the office of his uncle, Wm. Campbell, who at that time was general agcLt of the government as receiver of rents fortlie use of the lead mines at that place. With his uncle he only remained a few months when he entered the office of Circuit and County Clerk, under Col. Abner Field. Here he remained until the spring, of 1831, when he received the appointment of Clerk of the Circuit Court of McDonough county, for which place he started, arriving at Macomb the county seat of the newly organized county, on the first day of April, 1831, and where he has ever since resided, enjoying the respect and esteem of the people of the whole county.

When Mr. Campbell arrived at Macomb, there was but one building in the town, that of John Baker, of which mention is made elsewhere. He at once erected a log house a short distance south of P>aker'8, and opened a stock of general merchandise, the first ever opened in the county.

Strange as it may seem to us who now know the man, he was taken for a Yankee by the few people living in the vicinity, and who were principally, if not wholly from the State of Kentucky, and who hated a Yankee worse than a rattlesnake. At this time the office of clerk of the County Commissioner's Court was vacant and it was found impossible to lind a man who would discharge the duties and was capable of filling the office. The name of Mr. Campbell was suggested, when one of the commissioners swore no Yankee should ever hold the office with his consent. Assurance was given by Mr. Campbell that he did not belong to this much detested race, when he received the appointment and held the office for fifteen years.

In addition to the office of clerk of the Circuit and County Court, Mr. Campbell receiv^ed the appointment from Governor Reynolds of County Recorder, Kotary Public, and Judge of Probate, the latter two of which he resigned after a short time.

Heretofore McDonough county had been without a postoffice, the people of the entire county receiving their mail at Rushville, Schuyler county. Arrangements were at once made by Mr. C. to have the mail belonging to citizens of the county brought from Rushville to Macomb and delivered in his care, he assuming the payment of the postage, which at that time was seldom paid when a letter was posted and which was from six and a quarter to twenty-five cents on each letter. On receiving the letters he deposited them in his hat, and when inquiry was made for them, all that he would have to do was to remove his beaver and examine the contents. In the spring of this year (1831) a petition was sent to the Postmaster General praying the establishment of a postoffice in Macomb and the appointment of Mr. Campbell as postmaster. On the first of December a commission was received by liim and the office established, the first in the county.

This office he retained for fifteen years, save for about one quarter in 1841, when he was removed and Geo. W. Damron appointed. On learning of his removal. Judge Young, who at this time was a member of the United States Senate, made inquiries, and learning the cause of it, notified Mr. C, when evidence was taken and sent on disproving the charge made against him, and the postmaster general re-instated him.

war. He was in the battalion raised by Major Bogart in McDonough and Warren counties, and was out during its entire service, receiving as pay the munificent sum of eighty-six cents per day for self and horse. Again, in 1846, he received the appointment from the President as Commissary of the 3d regiment, Illinois Volunteers, for service in the Mexican war. lie was only out about three months, when supposing the war virtually at an end, he resigned his position and came home, soon again to be honored with office by his fellow citizens, for in the following year we find him elected as a member of the Constitutional Convention which framed the Constitution adopted in 1848. He was a member of the committee on miscellaneous business in this convention along: with Gen. Singleton and others. In 1852 he was elected to the State Senate and served in that office four years, during which time he was a member of the finance committee, the most important of the committees.

Mr. Campbell has always taken great interest in political aflairs, and has ever been outspoken in the expression of his views. He was a strong Clay man previous to 1832, at which time Mr. Clay made his celebrated speech against the pre-emption of public lands by actual settlers. This he could not stand, and therefore arrayed himself with the opposition, who he thought favored more the rights of the common people. Since this time .we find him an earncbt and consistent Democrat, contending more for principle than for policy, which at any special time might seem of the most importance. Honoring the party, he has in turn been honored, having, in addition to the offices mentioned above to which he was elected by the Democracy, been a member of the County Central Committee more years than any other man. He has been a member of every State Convention but two since 1836 ; he represented the Democracy of the State twice in National Convention ; at Cincinnati, in 1856, when James Buchanan was nominated for the Presidency, and in 1860, at Charleston and Baltimore, when Stephen A, Douglas was nominated. He has served as member of the Citv Council and as a member of the Board of Supervisors several terms, and generally to the satisfaction of all his constituents.

Mr. Campbell has been twice married ; the first time in August, 1831, when he was married to Miss Clarissa Hempstead, in St. Charles, Mo., and with whom he lived eleven years, she departing this life in 1842. In 1843 he again married, this time to Mrs.

Louisa F. Berry, a daughter of John Far\vell,ahd a sister of Gladden L. Farwell, of Macomb. The fruits of the first marriage were two sons and four daughters, and of the second, three sons and one daughter. His first child was the first female child l)orn in the town of Macomb.

As a husband and father, Mr. Campbell is kind and affectionate; as a citizen, public spirited ; as a neighbor, he enjoys the confidence and respect of all ; to the poor he is ever considerate, and the worthy subject of charity never goes from his door emptyhanded. No kinder hearted man ever lived than James Morrison Campbell, and although he has his faults, as others, we do not believe he would do aught to the willful injury of any. He is a man of strong, positive character, and therefore has made many strong friends and equally strong enemies, the latter being, so far as known, only political; personally he enjoys the esteem of each party alike. He is a man that has ever had the good of the city in which he lives at heart, and has worked hard and sacrificed much for its prosperity. He built the first store building in the town, the first frame building, the first school house, and the first public hall. jSTow, in his old age, he is not engaged actively in any business, his entire means being invested in public buildings, from the rent of which he receives an income sufficient for the support of himself and family. We could say much in reference to this man, but as the history of this county, in a measure, is a history of his life, and as frequent mention is made in this volume of his public acts, and many anecdotes are given, we forbear saying more in this connection.

Hon. Thompson Chandler

The old pioneers of the couuty are fast passing away, but here aud there 3'et remains one who labored much to build up and beautify this noble country of ours. Few men have worked more earnestly and toiled longer, and whose efforts have been better rewarded, than Judge Chandler, of Macomb; but, then, the Judge comes of a hardy race, being born among the hills of Xew Hampshire, in the town ofAlstead, October 25, 1805. His early life was not unlike thousands of others who passed through the common schools, and with a few months in the academy completed their education. He remained with his parents on the old homestead until after he reached liis majority, thus showing a filial affection to be commended. In the spring of 1812 he left his native State and came west as far as Cincinnati, where he remained two years engaged in the mercantile trade with varying success. Oq the expiration of this time he thought to still better his condition by yet removing still further west, and in that new country, lately opened to immigration, he might attain that success in life to which he aspired. Accordingly, in the spring of 1834, he landed in Macomb, this county, where he has since continued to reside, an honored citizen and an esteemed friend, exhibiting in his life those traits of character which have rendered him so popular among the people. For the lirst three years after his arrival in Macomb he engaged in the mercantile trade in company with the late "William Richards, so well and favorably known among early settlers. His success in this business was as great as could be expected at that early day, when the settlers had little money and raised nearly all they ate or wore. Shortly after his arrival in Macomb he purchased the southeast quarter, section 86, Emmet township, and afterward the entire section, part of which he obtained tor one dollar per acre and the balance for three dollars. The whole of the southeast quarter is n©w covered by dwellinghouses, from the humble cottage of the laboring man to the more palatial residence of the wealthier class, and is the finest part of the city of Macomb. From 1837 to the present time, a period of forty years, Mr. Chandler has been engaged in farming, save a period of one year while in California. In 1849, with many others, he took up his line of march to the new Eldorado, where he engaged for one year in mining and trading, having fair success in either operation, but experiencing enough of the hardships of the country in that time. On his return he again engaged in his regular calling, which, as remarked, he has followed to the present time. In addition to the regular work of the farm, he has for many years been engaged in raising stock, and was probably the first in the couiity to take an interest in improving the breed. At every meeting of the McDonough County Agricultural Association since its organization, his herd of cattle has attracted considerable attention and almost every year he has taken one or more premiums on his display.

In politics Mr. Chandler is now and always has been a democrat of the old school, in the years of his manhood voting with and working for the success of the democratic ticket. However others may have faltered in devotion to the principles of the old party he always remained firm, and through evil and good report he has labored for the success of the party. Honoring the part}', he has in time been honored by it, in receiving the nomination and election to various offices of trust. He has filled in a satisfactory manner the offices of Trustee of the town. Alderman of the city. Justice of the Peace, member of the Board of Supervisors, and County Judge, in the latter office serving from 1853 to 1861, a period of eight years. ISTo man that has ever occupied the office has discharged its duties in a more satisfactory manner. AVhile in this office many cases of importance were tried before him, his decisions usually being accepted as final by contesting parties. As a member of the Board of Trustees, Alderman or Supervisors' Court, he brought in the discharge of the duties of each the same unswerving desire to do right in all his public acts, having the interests of all his constituents ever before him, and laboring earnestly and zealously to promote the good of all. His popularity on this account has ever been great, and we have more than once observed that when his party desired an unexceptionable strong man they always brought out Thompson Chandler, and seldom has he ever been defeated. Many times has the large majorities of the opposition been overcome or reduced to an insignificant amount through reason of his popularity. The cause of this will be mentioned further on in this sketch.

Judge Chandler was married on the third day of February, 1881, to Miss Lucy B. Towne, of Stodard, 'New Hampshire. Four children have they been blessed with- - three boys and one girl. All are yet living save one, Albert B., the second son, who died on the fifteenth day of September, 1877, at the residence of his brother, G. C. Chandler, of Chicago. Albert B. had been sick for a long time with consumption, brought on, doubtless, by exposure. He was a hard-working, industrious young man, toiling early and late, with the laudable desire of adding to his possessions. His last sickness he bore with remarkable fortitude, and he passed peacefully away, surrounded by those who gladly would have relieved him of his sufferings. He was buried in Oakwood Cemetery, near Macomb, the funeral services being conducted by Elder G. W. Mapes. Of those yet living, Solon F., the oldest, is engaged in farming and stock-raising near Macomb; Gardner C. is engaged in the wholesale hardware trade in Chicago, and has been doing a thriving business; Mary Almeda is the wife of Crosby F. Wheat, Esq., a leading lawyer of Macomb, and for some years County Attorney of McDonough county.

Judge Chandler is rather below the medium height, and although in the seventy-third year of his age is quite active, and in his younger days must have been extremely so. As a husband and father he is kind and indulgent, as a citizen he is enterprising, as a friend and neighbor he is universally respected; few men have ever stood higher in the estimation of his fellow-citizens. We have stated that he has always been popular with the people, especially has this been the case with the poorer class, whose friend he has always been. Although having dealings with this class to a considerable extent, we have yet to hear of the first case in which he ever oppressed them in any way - many poor men owe their homes to his kindness and forbearance in not prosecuting his claims against them. It is therefore no wonder he is popular, and may he ever be so.

James Clarke

The subject of our present sketch was among the earliest settlers of our county, and for years occupied official positions that brought him before the people as much as any other man within its border. He was born in Lincoln county, Kentucky, September 26, 1797. His parents were John and Ann (Whitten) Clarke, the father being a soldier of the revolutionary war. They wore in very moderate circumstances, and when James was but a babe removed to Washington county, in the same State, engaging in the occupation of farming, their son assisting them as soon as he arrived at an age when he could be of service, remaining at home until eighteen years of age, when he left to learn the trade of hatter, which trade he followed for some vears. A few months attendance in the common schools was all the educational advantages that he ever enjoyed, but that little he made the best of in after life. The same general traits of character for which he was noted when more advanced in life was observable in youth. He was a quiet, steady and industrious boy, never engaging in any of the rude sports of the time, and of good moral habits.

On the twenty-first day of May, 1818, a few months before reaching liis majority, he was married to Miss Mary Lewis, in Washington count}^, Kentucky, with whom he lived happily a period of fifty-eight years, or until death called him away. Eleven children were born unto them, eight sons and three daughters, the latter, with one son, the eldest of the family, yet dwelling upon this side the river, the rest having passed over.

Realizing the.alraost utter impossibility of the poor ever becoming rich, or even obtaining a respectable living in the old states, especially the slave states, Mr. Clarke determined on emigrating to Illinois, and in the year 1829, with his family, removed to Morgan county, in this State, where they remained but one year, and in the spring of 1880 came to this county. When he arrived here he found but few families, and only scattered settlements here and there. In the neighborhood of the present city of Macomb, where he settled, there were but two families, Elias McFadden, then living on the Hunter farm, south of town, and John Baker, living near where the Fourth Ward school house now stands. The county was without organization, all local business Deing transacted in Schuyler county, and the nearest postoffice being in Rushville, of the same county. In the summer after his arrival steps were taken to organize the county, Mr. Clarke being very active in the matter. In the first election he was elected one of the three County Commissioners, and was re-elected several times, serving, we believe, about eight years. He also served several years as Probate Justice. When a change was made in the government of counties, by the constitution of 1848, he was elected County Judge, which office he held for four years. He was also a member of the first city council of Macomb, and for years was a Justice of the Peace of the county. In the discharge of his official duties he endavored to render satisfaction to all, and was always popular with the people. As Mr. Clarke is frequently mentioned in this work in connection with his public work, it is needless to say more in this place.

David Clarke

David Clarke, the son of John and Ann (AVhitteu) Clarke, was born on the 28th day of September, 1799, in Washington County Ky. Here he resided with his parents until after he reached his majority. At four years of age he was sent to one of the common schools of his native county, and continued going at intervals until he was eight, when he was put to work upon the farm by his parents, who were in only moderate circumstances, and here was kept at hard labor until he reached his majority. At sixteen he was permitted to attend school three weeks, which finished his education. AVhen he reached his majority he placed himself under the instruction of a music teacher for some months, acquiring a jirctty thorougli knowl- edge of the science of music, as taus^ht in that dav. As soon as he fii?ishcd his course, he adopted the teaching of music as a profession, and for three years he traveled constantly through the State engaged in that work. In early life he connected himself with the Baptist Church, and when only twenty-two years of age compiled a hymn book which he denominated "Clarke's Hymns." This book was adopted by the Baptists and several other denominations in Kentucky, and continued in use for many years. Two large editions were issued and speedily sold. Many copies are yet in existence, and held as precious heirlooms by their possessors.

On the twenty-fourth day of ISTovember, 1825, he was married to Eliza Swink Bussell, daughter of Samuel Russell, in Green county, Kentucky. Samuel Russell was well known as one of the pioneers of this county. Twelve children were born unto them, four only of whom are now living, viz : ^largaret M., wife of Corydon C. Chapman, Christopher Columbus, Samuel James, and Annie E., wife of Sidney S. Chapman.

In the fall of 1830 he removed with his family to this county, where he has since resided, being well known to nearly every citizen, especially the older settlers. For man}' years in the early day he run a "tavern," which at that time was more of a public resort than the "hotel" of to-day. Here the people for miles around assembled to discuss the news of the time and to indulge in drink For four years he was town constable, and eight years a justice of the peace. During the first four years he was justice he tried over nine hundred cases, a very large docket at that time. He was ever ready to render a decision, and as soon as a case on trial was finished, his judgment was rendered and recorded in his docket. Of all the cases appealed from his decision to the Circuit Court, he never had a judgment reversed. Few j'lstices transacting the amount of business done by him can say as much.

David Clarke is full six feet in height, well built, and has an excellent constitution. He is also a man of iron will - one that cannot be swerved from that he considers right. AVhen he declares his intention of doing anything, if in the range of possibilities, it will be done. In the early part of 1841, while under the influence of intoxicating drinks, a habit which, unfortunately, had had grown on him previous to that time, he injured himself somewhat bv a fall, when he vowed that lie would never drink another drop, which vow he has ever kept inviolate from that day to this, not even having partaken of a glass of lemonade - a glass of cider he would no more take than so much deadly poison. He is a radical temperance man, and not ashamed to own the fact. For a number of years he acted as Deputy Grand "Worthy Patriarch for the State at large, of the Sons of Temperance, and has instituted a goodly number of divisions. In consequence of advanced age he does not now take that active part in the work as formerly, but his heart yet goes out in sympathy with every movement for the success of the temperance cause.

Charles Chandler

History has long since established the fact that our best and greatest men are by no means confined to the ranks of those ennobled by birth, or surrounded from childhood with every facility for education or moral and social culture. The iinest natures are, indisputably, those w^ho override withtheir latent force and mental power ever}' obstacle, and aim, by virtue of their indomitable wills, to attain that honorable precedence among men, that, if conferred solely by the accident of birth, is far less the merit than the good fortune of its possessor. Charles Chandler, though descending from an illustrious family on both his father's and mother's side, has the pleasure of ascribing whatever good fortune that has been bestowed upon him, not by inheritance, but from his own personal exertions, the exercise of his own indomitable will. Coming to the county at an early day, and with very little means, he seized upon every favorable chance for the accumulation of wealth.

Charles Chandler was born in Alstead, N. H., on the twentyeighth of August, 1809. His parents were James and Abigail (Vilas) Chandler, the former being a native of New Hampshire, and the latter of Massachusetts. Mrs. Chandler died the twenty-ninth of November, 1854, aged seventy-nine years, and three years after, viz,on the eighteenth of November, 1857, Mr. Chandler departed this life, aged eighty-six years. The early life of Charles was spent with his parents upon the farm and in attendance upon the common schools of his native State, the only institution of learning that he was ever permitted to attend. When nineteen years ot age he was permitted by his parents to go to Boston, Massachusetts, that he might enter a mercantile establishment, where he remained two years, becoming quite proficient in the sale of goods. At the expiration of this time he returned to the farm, and remained there one year, when be conceived the idea of coming AVest ; accordingly he came as far as Cincinnati, where he remained two years, and from thence he came to Macomb, in this county, arriving in the spring of 1834. Those familiar with the county at that date will remember the town of Macomb contained about two hundred inhabitants, that three or four stores did all the business of the place, and that there were no farms upon the prairie at all, it being regarded as so much waste land. A brother of Mr. Chandler (Hon. Thompson Chandler) had preceeded him a few months, and was engaged in the mercantile trade in company with Mr. "William Richards, under the firm name of Richards & Chandler. Mr. Chandler engaged with them as a clerk, continuing that relation for two years, a part of the time being with the firm of Messrs. Simpson -& Miller. At the expiration of this time he went into business for himself aa a merchant, but only continued one year, when he sold out and engaged in the real estate business, which he followed for some years with great success. In 1845, in company ^ith Jonathan II. Baker, he again engaged in the mercantile trade, which relation was coatinued some two or three years, the firm doing a large and profitable business, on the old Campbell corner, Macomb. When he disposed of his interest in this establishment he remained out of any regular business for a year or two, when he again embarked in the real estate trade. It will be remembered that about this time land was very cheap, the best improved in the county not bringing more than five dollars per acre. Although Mr. Chandler probably did not then dream of the county securing a railroad, with all its great advantages, he yet saw in the rich soil and fair climate of the Military Tract an inducement to settlement which in time would be seen and real, ized by all ; therefore he did not fear to invest his means in the purchase of every quarter that he could obtain. lie well knew that in time the land would bring a high price in the market. That he was wise in this conclusion is proven by the result. When the great Northern Cross, now Chicago, Burlington and "Quincy railroad, was built, land advanced at a rapid rate, settlers <iame into the country in great numbers, and his fortune was made. When the T., P & W. railroad was built it found Mr. Chandler the possessor of the greater part of Sciota township, and 1;he rise in the value benefited him thousands of dollars. It cannot be said this gain was the result of luck. Far from it. It was the result of the far-sightedness of the man. Others had the same opportunities and the means to purchase all that Mr. Chandler secured, hut they reached forth no hand to secure the prize. His eyes were open to the main chance and he improved it. In all his real estate operations Mr. Chandler was eminently successful. ISTo man was better adapted to the business. While engaged in this line of trade he got up a set of records to facilitate transactions in the purchase and sale of lands, which were of great service.

On the tifteeuth day of December, 1836, Mr. Chandler was united in marriage to Miss Sarah K. Cheatham, daughter of Samuel G. Cheatham, Esq. Seven children were born unto them, three only of whom are now living, the rest, with the loved mother, passing on to the other side of the great river. Mrs. Chandler departed this life September, 1866, her loss being deeply felt by the husband and motherless children and by the entire community where she had resided, and endeared herself to so many hearts. She was a most exemplary member of the Church of Christ, in Macomb, showing forth in her life the fruits of the spirit, which are love, joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness, and brotherly kindness. She died fully trusting in the promises of the Lord, and in the sweet bye-and-bye she now awaits the coming of other loved ones.

Of the children living, Martha Abagail Chandler, the eldest, is now the wife of Henry C. Twyraan, Esq., a leading merchant of Macomb, and resides in that city. Charles Yilasco Chandler, the second child, was born January 25, 1848. He is now assistant cashier of the First National Bank, a leading business man of Macomb, and has held the office of City Treasurer for some years, and was two years a member of the Board of Supervisors of the county. He was in the army for the suppression of the rebellion, and was Adjutant of the 78th Eegimeut Illinois Volunteers. James Edgar Chandler was born March 20, 1850; is now assistant cashier of the Farmers' ISTational Bank, of Bushnell, and one of the leading business men of that city, and has held several city oflBces.

When the old Whig party was in existence, Mr. Chandler gave it allegiance, and on the organization of the Republican party, he embraced its principles, and to the present time he has strenuously advocated them. During the war he took an active part in securing enlistments and sending men into the field, being incapacitated on account of age and bodily health from going himself to the front. For the services rendered, Governor Yates commissioned him as Colonel of State Militia, with power to raise a regiment for home service.

Although never aspiring to public office, and the nature of his business being such as to incapacitate him for active political life, Mr. Chandler has frequently been honored by his party and friends with office, having served the county as Coroner for two years, and as County School Commissioner for four years. In the city of Macomb he was Justice of the Peace for many years. Alderman two years, and Mayor of city one term. In each position he discharged its duties to the satisfaction of his constituents, bringing to bear upon every part of the work the same careful management that characterized him in the transaction of his own private business. If, in the management of his own affairs he never took a leap in the dark, and always knew almost to a certaint}^ the result of an investment ; if he was a close calculator and studied economy in his own business, he likewise was governed by these same principles in public affairs. J^o man in McDonough county would be more implicitly trusted in the management of its business than Charles Chandler.

In 1858 Mr. Chandler embarked in the banking business in Macomb, and has continued in it to the present day. At this time, it will be remembered, many failures of bankers and other business men were occurring all over the country, yet notwithstanding, the people of the county reposed in him unbounded confidence and trusted him implicitly, depositing with him their means without fear that their trust would be betrayed. Hard times continued until the second year of the war. In 1861 the country was drained of its silver as well as of its gold, and sufficient change for the transaction of business could not be obtained. At this juncture Mv. Chandler issued several thousand dollars of "scrip" of the denomination of five, ten, twenty-five, and fifty cents each, which were readily received by the people everywhere, and we doubt not that to-day there is a small quantity of this currency scattered throughout the country and held as a souvenir of the war. As a private banker Mr. Chandler continued until 1865, when a charter was obtained and a company formed for the organization of a IN'ational Bank. At a meeting of the stockholders he was unanimously elected its president, which position he yet retains. Through careful and judicious management the bank has become one of the strongest in the State in proportion to the capital invested. During this same year of the organization of the First National Bank of Macomb, Mr. Chandler, in company with John B. Cummings, started a banking house in Bushnell under the tirm name of Chandler & Cummings. As a private bank this institution was continued until 1870, when it was organized as the Farmers' ISTatioual Bank, Mr. Chandler becoming one of the largest stockholders and one of its directors. This house likewise maintains an excellent reputation.

For some vears the health of ]Mr. Chandler has not been irood which has necessitated his spending considerable time in travel. He has spent several winters in the Southern States, especially in Florida, and made trips to South America, Central America, West India Islands, California, Mexico, and other places, and as might be expected has seen many of the M^onders of the world. Even when away for health or pleasure, he has had his eyes open to the main chance and made some fortunate ventures.

A word in regard to the ma?i. If we were writing for the present generation alone this would be unnecessary, as he is too well known by every citizen of the county. But we write for the future, for those who live after us, and therefore it becomes necessary to speak of the inner life of those of whom we write, as well as of their public acts, describing each as they exist, that those who read of them may know the men that were instrumental in the organization and material prosperity of our county. Charles Chandler is about live feet six inches in height, and weighs about one hundred and sixty pounds. In personal appearance he is |a model of neatness, a face smoothly shaven and wearing apparel always in good taste. In the family circle he was always kind and indulgent to his children and grand children, treating them with a tenderness that begot love in their hearts. In public he pursues the same course, treating all with kind consideration. If approached for a favor he never rudely repulses if he cannot grant the request, but simply refuses in a manner that does not lower the dignity of the one asking it. To one that he considers worthy, he will assist with pleasure; therefore it is not to be wondered that he has many strong friends and few enemies.

John M. Crabb

The "Crabh settlement," five miles northeast of Macomb, is well known to every citizen of the county, and the members of the family comprising it, from whom it was named, are each pleasant and agreeable men, good citizens, enjo3'ing the unqualified respect of all. John M. Crabb, the father of those bearing that name in the settlement, was born in Westmoreland county, A'irginia, September 1, 1792 ; was the son of Daniel and Frances (Middleton) Crabb, who were both natives of England, but who came to this country prior to the revolutionary war. Mrs. Crabb was a sister of Arthur Midrileton, one of the signers ©f the immortal declaration of independence, an instrument which brought freedom to three millions of people then living, and which has been kept intact until we now number over forty millions of beings, free in every sense of the word. To sign that instrument required not only patriotism, but courage of a high order, and this patriotism and this conrage we believe has been transmitted to all the lineal descendants of the family.

John M., of whom we now write, was left an orphan at a very early age, his mother dj^ing when he was but two years old, and his father some four years after. Thus, at the age of six, he was bereft of kind parents, the kind love of whom he never experienced.

On the death of his father, he was taken by an uncle, Samuel Crabb, with whom he remained until the breaking out of the war of 1812. This uncle endeavored to do his whole duty by his lonely nephew, and doubtless succeeded as well as any but a parent could succeed. His memory was always held in grateful remembrance by John.

In that early day the School facilities of the country were very limited, and unless possessed of great wealth, few could obtain an education such as is now required of the youth of Our land. Mr. Crabb, therefore, was only instructed in those branches taught in the common schools of his native State, but the will, power and determination to do of the man availed him much instead.

When war with Great Britain was proclaimed in 1812, Mr. Crabb, then in his twentieth year, was among the first to enlist. He served his country faithfully as a private soldier for two years, proving that he came from good old revolutionary stock. For that service he received eight dollars per month and a land warrant at the close of the war.

lie was married to Miss Auii Flemina- by whom he had ten chikh'en, five sods, and five daughters, eight of whom remain upon this side ofthe river of death, two, one son and one daughter, haviug passed on to the beautiful land beyond the grave. The mother, too, in April, 1851, joined the immortal throng above, dying in the full assurance of taith, having been a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal ('hurch, from the time she was fifteen years of age until the day of her death, a period of 39 year?. "Elessed are the dead who die in the Lord, yea, and from henceforth they shall rest from their labors and their Avorks do follow them." The memory of this excellent woman is revered by all who knew her, especially do- her children recall the kind and loving ways of that mother, wdio, in matters of discipline, was so diflerent from the father, and who always conquered their stubborn wills by the power of love, gently persuading where they could not be driven. O, the power of a mother's love, nothing can equal it, save the Savior's dying love as shown upon the cross.

In 1828 Mr. Crabb with his family, then consisting of a wife and six children, moved from Virginia to Montgomery county, Ohio, thinking to better his fortunes in a newer country. Here they only remained one year, when a change was made to Clinton county in the same State, where they continued to reside until the fall of 1836, when another change was made, this time to the regions of McDonough county, where the}^ arrived on the fourteenth of November, 1837. For a few weeks they lived in the village of Macomb, when, leasing the east half of section 16, Macomb towhship, the family moved on this as soon' as a house could be provided. The following spring, buying eighty acres of the same section, Mr. Crabb, with his boys, began tc till the soil, which for forty-one years has continued to yield bountiful harvests. No other business did he ever follow than that of tiller of the soil, an occupation suited to his nature. Although he did not amass wealth, as did many, he added to his possessions from time until he had acquired sufiicient means to render him comfortable while life should last. Up to his fifty-fourth year he continued to labor hard, after which time he surrendered the laborious part ofthe work to his sons, who had grown up around him and who physically were able to endure the burdens and hardships of a farmer's life. When he first settled on his place Abner AValker was the only neighbor he had, he living then about one mile east. The fever and ague was very common in the country at that lime and the familv all eujoved a touch of it. TTe have remarked that Abner Walker was the only neighbor. We might qualify it by saying human neighbor, for all around him were prairie wolves in great numbers, so bold they would come to his very doors and from the yard kill the fowls which he had provided. The annual prairie tires were then very destructive and great care had to be exercised to prevent their crops and even buildings from being destroyed. Mr. Crabb, long before the grass would begin to dry, would have his entire fields plowed around to prevent the spread of the fire when it should come. In this way he saved himself from loss by prairie fires.

John M. Crabb was a man about five feet eleven inches in heisrht, weighing one hundred and sixty five pounds, cleanly shaven face, save for a short time before his death, when he sufiered his beard TO grow around his throat. He was possessed of great firmness of character, and with his children his word was law ; when he commanded, obev they must. He was very fond of amusements, especially out door kind, vet never carried his love of the ridicu- Idus to excess. He believed there was a time and place for everything, and nothing approaching levity should be permitted where sobriety should be the rule. He always attended to his own business in his own way, neither asking or caring whether he suited others or not, though never doing that which would seem to be done intentionally to wound the feelings of another. For many years he was a consistent member of the M. E. Church, of which body his wife was likewise connected, having united while a citizen of Montgomery county, Ohio. The last congregation with which he was connected was the one in Bardolph, this county. Mr. Crabb departed this life on the tenth day of November, 1865, beinsr at the time seventv-three years, two months, and nine davs old. He died at the old homestead, surrounded by his children, all of whom^ had reached man and woman's estate; all of whom were married, save one. Calling them around him, and speaking of his grand children he said, " Bring them up right.'"' These were the last words he ever uttered, showing his crreat concern for the temporal welfare of each. He then passed peacefully away, joining his loved companion, who fourteen years previously had been taken from him, and, together with the glorified throng, sing the song of redemption on the evergreen shore. Rev. John Mc- Gionis, a former pastor, who was intimately acquainted with him,

Daxcel M. Craeb

Daniel M. Crabb, the eldest son of John M. and Ann Crabb. was bom in Frederick county, Virginia, on the fourteenth day of November. IS'23, and when five years old removed with his parents to OhiOj from which place they came to McDonough county, where they arrived on the thirteenth birth day of the subject of our present sketch. From that time to the present he has been a citizen of this eouuty, living in tne well known Crabb Settlement, in Macomb township. His entire life has been that of a farmer. havinar never ensrasred in anv other occuDation.

Previous to his arrival in Macomb he attended the c»: :__.on schools of Ohio, and after his arrival in this county, went for a short time to the old "Prairie school/' near the present residence of Pat. Lauffhlin, Esq., three miles north ot Macomb, and about the same distance from his fathers residence.

On the sixth day of March, ISoO, Mr, Crabb, was married to Miss Kebecca K. Hampton, with whom he lived ten years, she dyinff in IScO. Mr. Crabb was again married on the sixth day of March, lS6-2^ to Miss Mary E. Bards, with whom he yet happily lives. Three children blessed the former union, and one the present, all of whom are yet living.

About the year 1S41, Mr. Crabb made a profession of religion and united with the M. E. Church. In ISTl. be changed his church relations by uniting with the Evangelical Lutheran church, at present located in the city Macomb, his wife also uniting with that congregation, though she had for several years been a devoted member of that zealous body of christian people. Mr. C. now occupies the p»osition of Trustee in that church.

Daniel M. Crabb is a little below medium height, but well and strongly built, black hair and beard, dark complexion, strong will and quick temper, which he has well under control. In the family circle, he is very pleasant and agreeable and neighborly with alL Xo man in his neighborhood is esteemed more highly, and is expected to lead in all matters pertaining to the weltare of his neighborhood and township.

James and Rachel (Hall) Cummings, natives, we believe, of the State of Maryland, where in Cecil county, of that State, was born John B. Cummings, on the seventeenth day of January, 1824. His early life was spent upon a farm, and in the private or select schools of his native State and Ohio, to which latter place the familv removed on the death of his father, which occured in the early part of the year 1837. The family settled in Harrison county, of this latter State, where they remained three years, going from thence to Butler county, Pennsylvania,. After settling up affairs, on the death of his father, but little was left, and the support of the family fell upon John and an older sister, the latter engaging as ateacher, while John secured a place as clerk in a dry goods and grocery store, which occupation he followed for some years, or until enabled to go into business for himself.

Mr. Cummings has been twice married; first to Miss Evaline E. Pearson, in Butler county, Pennsylvania, in the year 1847; second to Mrs. Mary E. Parkinson, of Macomb, the latter event taking place in 1864. By his first wife he had six children and one by his last. The first Mrs. Cummings died in Macomb in 1862 beloved by all who knew her.

In 1851 Mr. Cummings came to the "Great AVest," as then called, and took up his residence at Macomb, in this county, where he resided until his removal to the city of Bushnell in 1865. Shortly after coming to Macomb, in company with Mr. John B. Pearson, he purchased the stock and good will of Messrs. Randolph & Parkinson in the dry goods and grocery trade, continuing the same, with some changes, until 1857, when he retired from the firm that he might accept the position of clerk in the newly established banking house of Charles Chandler & Co., which position he retained until his election to the office of Clerk of the Circuit Court of McDonough county in 1860. At this election he ran for the office against William T. Head, one of the most popular men in the county, receiving a small majority, notwithstanding the county had never previously given a majority in favor of the party to which Mr. C. belonged. Mr. Head not content with the result, contested the election, but the court, before whom the case was tried, decided in Mr. Cummings' favor. At the expiration of his term of office he removed- to Bushnell, and in company with Charles Chandler, started a private banking house under the firm name of Chandler & Cummings. Mr. Chandler residing in Macomb and being engaged in a similar enterprise, the business of the Bushnell firm was conducted by Mr. Cummiiigs alone. In 1871 a charter was obtained for a National Bank, the firm invested their means in the same, and, together with other parties, organized the Farmers' National Bank, with Mr. Cummings as cashier and general manager, which position he yet retains.

On his removal to Bushnell, with his accustomed zeal, Mr. Cummings at once entered upon the work of promoting the interests of that go-ahead young town - no public enterprise but what secured his hearty and active co-operation. On the organization of the town as a city, in 18G9, he was elected its first Mayor, and three times has since been re-elected, serving his constituents in a manner to secure the approval of the great majority.

In 1873 he united with the Reformed Church in Bushnell, and shortly after was elected to the Superinteudency of its Sunday School, which position he yet retains. In this field of Christian labor, he takes considerable interest, and has the reputation of being a very capable and etiicient superintendent.

John B. Cummiugs is a man about five feet seven inches high, slender proportions, black hair, tinged with gra}', rather thin beard of the same color, a good mathematical head, and is a good judge of human nature. A.s a financier he has no superior in the county - the affairs of the bank with which he is connected, and of which be has had the management for thirteen years, has been carefully and judiciously managed, both for the best interests of its stockholders and depositors, ils^o complaint, to ourkuowledge, has ever been made against him by stockholder or patron. In business hours he is always found at his place of business, giving attention to its minutest details, and with a desire to render satisfaction to all who may favor the bank with its patronage. "While Clerk of the Circuit Court of this county he gave the same general care to the details of that office. Having business to transact with huiitlreds throughout the county, he treated all in a way to secure their friendship and good will. Although beaten for the same office in 1861, it was not on account of the loss of any personal popularity, but from causes resulting from the war. In the discharge of his duties as Mayor of the city of Bushnell he has endeavored to be impartial in all things, working for the best interests of the place. In the expenditure of money, while he would manage all things economically, he Avould not be niggardly in any matter. In the cause of education he has been a consistent advocate of our public school system, and believes in making the same general improvement in this department as in all others. In the erection of the school building, which is now the pride of Bushnell, he took an especial interest, and to him more than any other man is due the building of the same. In private life Mr. Cummings is a kind friend and neighbor, enjoying the respect of all ; as a husband and father, he is kind and gentle, inspiring the love and contidcnce of his entire family.

Dr. B. A. Duncan, son of Jonathan and Leatha Duncan, is of Scotch, Irish and English descent, and was born April 6, 1825, in Frankfort, Washington county, Pennsylvania. But little is known of his family, or of his early history, except that his father gave him such an education as would fit him for the medical profession which he had chosen for his life work. His preparatory medical studies were conducted under the tutorship of Dr. Alexander McCandless, of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, graduating from the Medical College, in the same city, in the year 1815. In 1849, he came to Illinois and settled in McDonough county, on the site of the present village of Industry. At that time this flourishing village was comparatively a wilderness, wild game of all kinds were abundant, and the dwellings few and far between. But here was a good and favorable opportunity for one with will and determination to secure a competency for himself and make a name honored among men. As the country grew in population and in wealth, the practice of Dr. Duncan kept pace with it, and became very extensive, his success in all branches of his profession being good. Few physicians had a larger practice and none were more highly respected and trusted by the people. He was for many years a member of the McDonough county Medical Association and in its meetings took great interest. For thirty-two j^ears of his life, his whole time was spent in study and in the practice of his profession, with the exception of a few months in the service of his country as a member of the 138th regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry. In this regiment he enlisted as u private in Co. A, Captain McClenahan, of Monmouth, and was assigned to duty as Hospital Steward.

children, viz., Jonathan, Fleetwood and Thomas, the first named suffering a violent death, on the 29th of September, 1867, at the age of fourteen. Mrs. Duncan died of consumption on the first day of Xovember, 1863. The doctor's second marriage was on the eighth day of ISTovember, 1864, with Miss Martha Merrick, who still survives him. Bv this last marriag-e there were six children born unto them, all of whom are yet living.

In 1856 the doctor made a profession of religion, and united with the Presbyterian Church, but for some reason did not long remain in connection with that body. Although his relations with the local congregation was severed, he never denied his Master, but continued to manifest an interest in the work of the Lord's vineyard, and when professional duties would admit, was always present in the Lord's house, and was a co-laborer and worker in the cause of Christ. In his last illness he conversed freely with all on the subject of religion, his hope of receiving the crown of life brightening as he neared the end, and often did he express a desire to depart and be at rest. His disease was rather obscure and very complicated, while his sufferings were intense, but he endured it all with remarkable patience for eight months, closing this life on the thirty-first of March, 1877. The funeral services were conducted by the Rev. J, S. Budd, pastor of the M. E. Church, assisted by the Kev. J. L. Towner, of the Christian Church, and took place at his late residence. Although the weather was very inclement, a large congregation assembled to pay the last tribute of respect to a kind husband, a loving and indulgent parent, and esteemed citizen and friend.

By his request, Mrs. Duncan was appointed Administratrix, a position which by education and natural business tact, she is well qualified to fill. Under her care, the property left for her benefit, and of the fatherless children, will not be squandered.

Few men in any community ever had the opportunity of being better known than Dr. B. A. Duncan. Coming to the country when it was new, and growing with it, and for many years being the only physician in the neighborhood, there was probably not a family in Industry township but what at some time he visited as a professional man. It is therefore not wonderful that his death was mourned by many sympathizing friends, who knew and loved the man for his many good qualities of head and heart. But the loss of the family and friends in his gain. "Blessed are

Captain S. A. Epperson

The parents of the subject of our present sketch were James H. and Martha (Osborne) Epperson. They were hard-working, industrious, and honest jjeople, respected by all who were acquainted with them. S. A., their second son, of whom we now write, was born in Greencastle, Ind., on the tenth day of October, 1837. Whenbut three years of age his parents removed to Marshall, Clark county. 111., where they remained but one year, when they continued their journey farther West, stopping in Iowa City, in the then territory of Iowa. Here they remained lintil the death of the mother, which occurred in 1845. The elder Epperson then took his eldest son, John L., and went to the lead mines of Wisconsin, leaving S. A. in the care of a couple named Hill, where he remained about three years, experiencing many hardships, the memor}?^ of which will never be obliterated while life shall last.

Xearly all the educational advantages enjoyed by S. A. were in attendance upon the common schools of Iowa City, which at that time were not the best, the town containing about one dozen families when they moved there. Among the number then living in the place were some that have since obtained some eminence in the councils, of State and i^ation; Professor Harlan, afterward United States Senator and Secretary of the Interior, being one of the number.

In 1849 the elder Epperson moved to the State of Kentucky, taking with him his two children, remaining there some two years, when he returned to Illinois, settling on the southwest quarter of section nine, in the township of New Salem, which was his home until his removal to Bushnell, which occurred in 1868. S. A. accompanied his father both to Kentucky and on his return to Illinois, remaining with him and engaging in the labors of the farm until the year 1858, when the excitement ran high about the discovery of gold in Pike's Peak. To this new Eldorado he determined to go, and in the fall of that year went as far as Henry county, Missouri, wherehe remained during the winter following with an uncle living there. In the spring of 1859 he drove a herd of cattle to Independence, Missouri, and there he hired to take a drove on to Nebraska City, the starting point of the overland jouniev. Discouraging news from the Peak caused him to abandon the trip, and he joined a train sent out by ^[ajors Russell and "Waddle, treighting government supplies for the soldiers at Camp Floyd, and drove across the plains, and was gone some sixmontlis. The iirm with which he engaged stipulated in the contract with their men that they were not to drink any intoxicating liquors, play cards, or use blasphemous language. This was the first temperance pledge Mr. Epperson ever took, and we Eire pleased to record the fact that ho has observed it ever since. He has stated to us that in the train witliAvhich he was connected were men of all grades in society, but yet each lived faithfully to his pledge, knowing their wages depended upon its observance. Xo trouble of any kind was exi:)crienced on the journey, while neighboring trains which allowed the vices prohibited in this to be indulged in, rows were of frequent occurrence. This shows the good effect of wholesome moral law.

Success in the mines not equalling anticipation, Mr. Epperson, at the expiration of the time previously mentioned, returned to the States, and for the year following resided in southwest Missouri, passing the time in attending school and laboring on a farm. In the summer of 1830, he returned home and labored somewhatin the campaign resulting in the election of Abraham Lincoln to the presidency. In the fall and winter of 1860-Gl, he read law and taught school, and in the spring following again engaged in farming, continuing in that pursuit until his enlistment in the war of the rebellion, which occured in August following. On the first day of that month he enlisted as a private in Company L. 7th Illinois Cavalry, and was mustered into the service as Second Lieutenant on the third da}' of September, and on the 12th of December, with the regiment, Co. L left Camp Butler, near Springfield, for the front. The regiment went immediately into active service, and none performed duty more faithfully that it, While stationed at Jacinto, Miss., Lieutenant Epperson was promoted Captain of the company, over its First Lieutenant, which position he retained until mustered out at expiration of term of service, November 12, 1864. In Grierson's raid, from LaGrange, Tenn.,to Baton Kouge, La., Co. L, under command of Captain Epperson, rode eight hundred miles in sixteen days. While stationed at ColliersviHe, Tenn., the place was surrounded by the enemy one Sunday morning, and Captain Epperson, with some thirty others, was taken prisoner, the men being dismounted at the time, and completely sur- rounded were captured and taken to Grenada ; here he was held as a hostage for a rebel officer under sentence of death hy our force, which certainly did not add to the pleasure of his captivity. But he made up his mind, if possible, he would effect his escape, and the opportunity offering, he bid good bye to his captors without reluctance, and broke for the Union lines. He was ten days in the swamps making his way to where the Union troops were stationed, suffering much in the journey. It was just thirty days from the date of his capture until he returned. For meritorious conduct he was breveted Major.

On receiving his discharge, Captain Epperson returned home and again engaged in farming, but on account of disability received while in the service of his country, was compelled to abandon it.

Politically Captain Epperson is a staunch Republican, the principles of that party being dear to him, but he is independent in expressing his opinion in regard to the policy that should govern the party in its actions. Twice has he been elected member of the Board of Supervisors ot the county, serving his constituents in a faithful and upright manner. Ln 1867 he received the nomination for County Treasurer, against Sydnor H. Hogan, a very popular Democrat, and although defeated, he ran largely ahead of his ticket. In the last Congressional Convention he was supported by the delegates from this county, as their candidate for nomination, but local and other influences caused his defeat.

In the spring of 1868, Captain Epperson moved to the city of Bushnell, where he yet resides. For two years he read law in the office of M. A.Luce, and was admitted to the bar in the spring of 1869, shortly afterwards becoming a partner of M. A. Luce, which arrangement was continued two years. In 1869 he received the appointment of Postmaster, which office he yet holds. In 1873 he abandoned the law, purchasing an interest in the Bushnell Record, and in about one year, had the entire control of the paper. This publication he yet continues. Captain Epperson is of medium height, light complexion, is sociable, and one whose enemies, if any, are all on account of political differences.

John L. Epperson

John Lowry Epperson, son of James II. and Martha Jane (Osborne) Epperson, was born in Lafayette, Indiana, JS'ovember 6, 1884. Ilis parents were both Keutuckians by birth, emigrating from that State to Indiana at an early day. When John was but a mere lad they again moved, going to the territory of Iowa, making their home in Iowa City. Here the mother died, leaving two children to the care of the bereaved husband and father. Mr. Epperson, taking his son John with him, proceeded to the famous lead mines, in Wisconsin, where he remained three years, from whence he removed to Table Grove, Fulton county, where he only remained a few months, returning to his native State of Kentucky, where he remained three years, and then coming to this State, settling in the present township of Xew Salem. Mr. Epperson has ever since been a citizen of this county, and Fulton county, one duly respected by those who are acquainted with him.

All the educational advantages enjoyed by the subject of our present sketch was in the common schools of the then territories of Iowa and Wisconsin. Farming has usually been his means of employment, though he has engaged to some extent in other business. For seven years he spent his time in teaching in the public schools, six years ©f the time in one school house, which certainly speaks well for his talent in that direction. At present he is the railroad station agent at Adair, having occupied the position since the completion of the Rockford, Rock Island and St. Louis Railroad in 1870.