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

Biographical sketches

The subject ot this sketch was born in Rockbridge county, Va., February 14, 1793. His father, Samuel Logan, was a native of Irehind, who emigrated to this country when about twenty years of age, and was married about the year 1789 to Ann Wylie. A short time after the birth of John, his parents removed to Garrett county, Kentucky, making the journey with two pack horses, on which all their worldly goods were borne.

Ekler Logan was a self-made man in every sense of the word. On account of the extreme poverty of his parents, he only obtained such education as the common schools of that earlj-- day afforded, but he had a thirst for knowledge, and read with avidity every book he could get, thus storing his mind with information that was of service to him in after years in the proclamation of the gospel.

On the twenty-eighth day of Xovember, 181» , he was married to Miss Xancy Xewell, in Simpson county, Ky., and at once removed to Sumner county, Tenn., where he lived for five years. It was here, under the preaching of Elder Lee Allen, that he was converted to Christ, and where he and his estimable wife were buried in baptism on the third day of October, 1819, and on the first Sunday in Xovember ot the same year they united with the Xew Hope Baptist Church, in Simpson county, Ky. From the time of his conversion he began the proclamation of the gospel.

In October, 1823, he removed to Dubois county, Indiana, where he remained for four years. When he first settled here he tlionght to engage no more in the preaching of the gospel, imagining his labors were fruitless. He had been in the neiirhborhood but a short time when he attended a religious service at the house of a neighbor, when the following dialogue occurred: "John, did you ever preach ?" "I don't know." Did you ever try ?" He had to admit that he had. "Why, don't you know the Lord will kill you if you don't do His work ? Xow, we must have preaching, and you must do it." A load was lifted from his mind, and never after that did he fail to preach as an opportunity offered.

He was regularly ordained by Elders Graham, Charles Harper, and David Hornaday, and in the spring of 1828 moved to this county, and settled near the present town of Industry, living one season in the old block house, of which mention is made elsewhere in these records. The block house at this time was the property of William Carter, who, learning Elder Logan was coming to the neighborhood to live, was watching for him, and when he made his appearance with his old-fashioned ox-team, with his family and entire household goods packed therein, he was hailed by Mr. Carter, who asked him where he was going to live. He replied that he bad arranged with a family in the neighborhood to occupy a part of their house. Mr. Carter then said : "]S"ow, see here, Mr. Logan, I have lived long enough in this world to know that no house is large enough for two women. There is that old block house over there, it that will suit, you can take it and use it as long as you like, and it shan't cost you a cent." The offer was thankfully received, and the place was soon made ready for the use of the famih^ Here they lived until fall, when they moved into a more comfortable house, where they remained until the following year, when another move was made to Schuyler county, which place was made their home until the fall of 1835, when they again returned to McDonough, this time settling near the present town of Blandinsville, and where they lived until the day of Mr. Logan's death. While living in the old block house he preached in the neighborhood, and organized the first Sunday school ever held in the county.

As a preacher. Elder Logan was energetic and earnest in the extreme - an off-hand speaker, never writing his sermons, and seldom using notes. His whole heart was in his Master's work, and he labored earnestly and zealously in the field in which he was called upon to occupy. In the spring of 1832 he received the appointment of missionary from the Home Missionary Society, of

111 the career of Dr. Bollcs 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 with 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 bright future is yet before him.

Alonzo Barnes

Alonzo Barnes, son of Truman and Laura (Neale) Barnes, was born in ISTew Hartford, Conn., on the tenth day of May, 1825. "When but a mere child his parents removed to IS'ew Haven, in the same State, where they remained until the year 1838, when they came AV^est, their son accompanying them, and settled in Canton, Illinois. From the time he attained the right age, until the removal of his parents from New Haven, he attended the Lancasterian sschool in tliat 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 thorough 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, with 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 always obeyed the scriptural injunction, "Whatsoever 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 lipp, 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 Newell 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 ofiice 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 to 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 dificrent now. Not an acre, not a rod, but what is enclosed. Mr. Barnes, on his removal liere, 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 finest in the township, and probably not surpassed by any in the county. He was the first postmaster in the town, and held the office 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 ]S"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 allow 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 witli 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, JohnE. 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 Campbell was born. "When 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 Indians, in the war brought on through British instigation, our country at that time beingf enofaffed in the war of 1812, the father of Mr. Campbell went out as Lieutenant of Bangers, 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, tfhinking 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. Kot succeeding in Lexington as he desired, he returned to Frankfort where he remained another year, wlien in the spring of 1828 he went with his father to Shelby county, Ky., where he remained until the following winter, when he started for Galena, in this State, but went to Nashville, 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 agert of the government as receiver of rents forthe 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 loc: house a short distance south of Baker's, and opened a stock of general merchandise, the first ever opened in the county.

Stranore as it mav seem to us who now know the man, be 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, find 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 find 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 received the appointment from Governor Reynolds of County Recorder, Notary 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 Avas 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 him and the office established, the first in the countv.

This office he retained for fifteen years, save for about one quarter in 18-11, 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. lie was in the battalion raised by Major Bogart in McDon- OLigh 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. He 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 ofhce 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 ofhce 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 affairs, 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 bethought 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 183G ; 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 1800, at Charleston and Baltimore, when Stephen A. Douglas was nominated. He has served as member of the Citv Conncil 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 3'ears, she departing this life in 1842. In 1843 he again married, this time to Mrs.

Louisa F. Berry, a daughter of John Farwell,and 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. ].iis first child was the first female child born 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, ^o 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 strongfriends 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 county are fast passing away, but here and there yet 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 his 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 be remained two years engaged in the mercantile trade with varying success. On 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 first three years after his arrival in Macomb he engaged in the mercantile trade in company with the late William E-ichards, so well and favorably known among early settlers. His success in this business was as great as could be expected at tbat 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 lor one dollar per acre and the balance for three dollars. The whole of the southeast quarter is now 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 county 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 party, 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. I^o man that has ever occupied the office has discharged its duties in a more satisfactory manner. While in this office many cases of importance were tried before him, his H 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 oLserved 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, 1831, to Miss Lucy B. Towne, of Stodard, jSTew 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 suflt'erings. He was buried in Oakwood Cemetery, near Macomb, the funeral services being conducted by Elder G. W. Mapes. Ot 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 ot 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 advantas^es 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 adranced in life was observable in voutli. 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 his majority, he was married to Miss Mary Lewis, in AVashington county, 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 almost 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 1820, with his family, removed to Morgan county, in this State, where they remained but one year, and in the spring of 1830 came to this county. AVhen 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 Avere but two families, Elias McFadden, then living on the Hunter farm, south of town, and John Baker, livinfi: near where the Fourth Ward school house now stands. The county was without organization, all local business being transacted in Schuyler county, and the nearest postofiice being in Eushville, 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 (Whitten) Clarke, was born on the 28th day of September, 1709, in Washington County Ky. Here he resided with his parents until after he reached his I majority. At four years of age he was sent to one of the com- ' mon 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 i weeks, which finished his education. AVhen he reached his majority he placed himself under the instruction of a music I teacher for some months, acquiring a pretty thorough knowl- edge of the science of music, as taught in that day. As soon as he iii?ishecl his course, he adopted the teaching of music as a profession, and tor 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 liymn 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 November, 1825, he was married to Eliza Swink Russell, 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 ; Margaret M., wife of Corydou 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 tbis county, where he has since resided, being well known to nearly every citizen, especially the older settlers. For many 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 justices transacting the amount of business done by him can say as much.

David Clarke is full six feet in height, well built, and has aa excellent constitution. He is also a man of iron will - one that cannot be swerved from that he considers right. When 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 J somewhat by a fall, when he vowed that he 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 mnch 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 bevst 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 finest natures are, indisputably, those who override with their latent force and mental power everj^ 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, K 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 ISTovember, 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 of age he was permitted by his parents to go to Boston, Massachusetts, that

||he might enter a mercantile establishment, where he remained two 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 he conceived the idea of coming "West ; according!}- he came as far as Cincinnati, where he remained two years, and from thence he came to Macomb, i-n 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 laud. 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. "VYilliam Richards, nnder the firm name of Richards & Chandler. Mr. Chandler enorasfed 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 as 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 with Jonathan II. Baker, he again engaged in the mercantile trade, which relation was continued some two or thj'ee 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 3"et 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 came 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 the 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, but 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. Xo 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 fifteenth 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. Twyman, Esq., a leading merchant of Macomb, and resides in that city. Charles Yilasco Chandler, the second child, was born January 25, 1843. He is now assistant cashier of the First ISTational 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 th'e army for the suppression of the rebellion, and was Adjutant of the 78th Regiment 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 citv, and has held several city offices.

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 asce and bodilv health from aroiuo- 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.

Althongh 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, havins: served the county as Coroner for two vears, and as Count}' School Commissioner tor 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 ever}' 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 certainty the result of an investment ; if be was a close calculator and studied economy in his own business, he likewise was governed bj^ these same principles in public affairs. Xo man in McDonough county would be more implicitly trusted in the management of its business than Charles Chandler.

In 185S Mr. Chandler embarked in the bankino: business in Macomb, and has continued in it to thft present day. At this time, it will be remembered, many failures of bankers and other business men were occurrino; all over the country, vet 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 Mr. Chandler issued several thousand dollars of "scrip"' of the denomination of five, ten, twent^'-five, and fifty cents each, which were readily receiv^ed 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 National Bank. At a meeting of the stockholders he was unanimously elected its president, which position he yet of the first settlers of Bushnell, and one of its leading citizens. Two sons, Willie Lincoln and Walter Lowrie, have been the fruits of this union.

Rev. Josiah Moore

The parents of the. subject of our present sketch were Charles and Hannah Moore, the former of English and the latter of Scotch descent. They had eight children - five sons and three daughters. The two eldest children died in infancy, and one son, John, died in his thirty-second year, on the ninth of March, 1858. The records of the old families show a strict adherence to the I'rotestant faith.

Josiah, the third child, and subject of this sketch, Avas born near Ballybay, Ireland, September 18, 1833. On the sixteenth of June, 1834, his parents sailed for the United States, and after a tedious voyage in one of the slow sailing vessels of that day, reached Baltimore on the eighteenth of August, following. From here the family took passage in one of the great road wagons which at that time served in the place of rail cars, and came by way of the "Xational Pike" to Washington county, Pennsylvania, where they remained with friends until the twelfth of March, 1836, when they proceeded west, the father having preceded them the previous fall. They took a boat at "Wheeling, West Virginia, and after a toilsome journey by water reached Galena on the third of April. Here the feverish excitement over lead mining, mud, and a wild western life, were each clamorous for supremacy, and each, at times, claimed the advantage of being uppermost. On the sixteenth of May, following, the family moved to their new home, which was a log cabin, erected upon a tract of land secured by the elder Moore about twelve miles south of Galena.

The iirst school dajs of Josiah were spent in a little log school house built by his father on his own laud. For several years the children from a large scope of country around resorted to this humble retreat, seeking for a nobler destiny. The house was roofed with sod, had one sash, with six small lights for a window, an earth floor, a very large fire place, while the cracks between the logs were tilled with mud in the winter, but all taken out in the summer to admit of light and air. His first teacher studied law at the same time, and afterwards became Judge of the Supreme Court of Wisconsin, but like many others of bright promise. Judge Crawford finally fell a victim to the intoxicating bowl.

In the fall of 1855, while running a large threshing machine, Mr. Moore had a very narrow escape from losing his life by being caught in the machinery. Soon after this he determined upon carrying out the long cherished purpose of his life - the obtaining ot a liberal education - and accordingly entered Westminster College, Pennsylvania, where he remained until the summer of 1860, except for a period of three months when he taught a school near hisoJd home. In September, 1860, he entered Monmouth College, Monmouth, Illinois, where he remained until the following spring, when in response to the call of President Lincoln for troops, after the fall of Fort Sumpter, April 13, 1861, together with E. A. Paine, afterwards General, he raised a company and tendered its service to Gov. Yates, but the rush to Springfield more than supplied the demand. The Governor gave Mr. Paine command of the 9th Infantry, and Mr. Moore was left to wait on another call, which soon came from the State for ten regiments to go into camp in their respective Congressional districts for thirty days, and hold themselves in readiness for United States service, if needed. He accordingly reported with his company at I'eoria, and was sworn into service May 13. Another call soon came from the General Government and the company entered its service May 25, for three years, and became Company F,17th Illinois Infantry. The greater portion of the company were students from the college and were the first to enlist from Warren county. Mr. Moore was commissioned as Captain April 20, 1861, and held this position to the close of his enlistment and then returned home in command of his company, which could not perhaps be said of another captain of the ten regiments. After the seige and surrender of Vicksburg be was elected major, but the regiment being reduced below the minimum by disease and loss in battle, he never received his commission. The 17th regiment did gallant service at Fredericktown, Mo., Fort Donelson, Shiloh, and in the seiges of Corinth and Vicksburg, besides skirmishes and marclies innumerable. In every movement it generally occupied the front line. From all these services Captain Moore was never absent, unless a very few times on account of sickness. lie was held in the highest esteem by all his men whom he loved as brothers. With his company he was mustered out at Springfield, 111., June 4, 1864.

A few days after his return from the army. Captain Moore was captured by a fairer enemy than he ever met upon the battle-field, and was bound by the holy bonds of matrimony with Miss Jennie E. Lindsay, daughter of Hon. J. T.Lindsay, of Peoria. The Lord has given them five children - Maggie, Linnie, Jessie, Charles and Herbert. Jessie died when five months old.

Captain Moore made a profession of religion when about fifteen years of age, and united with the Associate Church of North America. In September, 1863, he returned to his place in college, and in addition began his course in Monmouth Theological Seminary, in October following. He graduated from the college in 1865 with the degree of A. M., and from the Seminary in 1867 with the degree of B. D.

On the fourth of April, 1866, he was licensed at South Henderson, Illinois, by the United Presbyterian Presbytery, of Monmouth, to preach the gospel, and during May and June supplied the church at his old home, Hanover, Illinois, from which he afterward received a call.

j^ot being satisfied with the restrictions imposed upon the pastoral work by some of the "Distinctive Principles" of the old church, and having an earnest desire to labor in a southern field, he united with the O. S. Presbyterian church, because it was not only the most nearly in accord with his own views, but at that ^1 time promised the best opportunity for obtaining his cherished hopes, hence he united with the Presbytery of Peoria, O. S., at Lewistown, Illinois, April 17, 1867; but the strife that about this time became so bitter between the church North and South, admonished him that the services of a northern man to be acceptable to the south must be deferred to some future day ; still he regards the gospel as the only balm for all these sad wounds.

The first church of the 0. S. for wliich he labored was that of El Paso, supplying the church during the months of June, July and August, 1867. In September he was called to the church at Macon, but owing to the destruction of their building by a tornado, March 16, 1868, he gave up that work. In August of that year he took charge of the church at Canton ; received a call March 25, 1869, and May 11 was ordained and installed. He labored here about five years, during which time the church, secured a very neat and comfortable house of worship and good parsonage grounds. On the twenty-fifth of May, 1873, he resigned, and on Sabbath, June 1, 1873, he preached for the first' time in Macomb. In the church at this place he remained as stated supply until October, 1874, when he was called to the regular pastoral work, which position he yet acceptably fills. In Macomb he has enshrined himself in the affections of the people, and among all classes, whether members of his own church or of another denomination, or even among those of the world, he is highly esteemed for his work's sake. Whether it be in his own congregation or in union with the evangelical churches of the city, he labors earnestlj' and zealously to do bis Master's will in converting souls to Christ. As a public speaker he is plain, practical and earnest, by his manner as well as by his words, carrying conviction to the hearts of his hearers.

Rev. Moore is a large, portly man of good figure, and pleasant and agreeable in his manner - one calculated to make friends wherever he goes.

Richard Musson

liichard Musson, son of Joseph and Mary (Ilobes) Musson, was born in Long Clossen, Leicester county, England, April 30, 1810. His parents were in very moderate circumstances, his father following the profession of boatman. Young Eichard attended the public schools until he was ten years of age, when he was placed on the boat with his father, and for some years continued in that work, afterward changing it for the trade of stone-mason, which he continued to follow until a few short years ago. When but twenty years of age he came to the United States, with the hope of better success in a worldly point of view. The same year (1830) in which he arrived in the country he united in marriage with Miss Rebecca Thornton, by whom he had nine children, two of whom died in childhood, and one since her marriage - Mary J., wife of Rev. Abraham Kewland.

For four years he made his home in the State of 'New York, when he came West, stopping in Morgan county, where he remained six years, and in 18-40 coming to McDonough county, where he has since resided, living the whole period of time within three miles of the present town of Colchester; he, therefore, may well be classed as an old settler, having been a citizen of the county for thirty-seven years, and having experienced the hardships incidental to those who made their homes here at an early day.

Although he may not have obtained the prominence of many others, Richard Musson is well known throughout the county, especially by the older settlers, while none know him but to respect the sterling worth of his character. He has always been a hard working man, and by the "sweat of his face" has placed himself in comfortable circumstances, so that in his declinins: years, he can pass quietly along, and when the summons shall come, he can answer, "Here, Lord, am I."

In 1829, he united with the Methodist Episcopal Church, and up to the present time, a period of forty-eight years, has ever been u consistent member of that branch of the Christian church. For years he has occupied the position of class leader, and, in that capacity, has done efhcient work in his Master's cause. We believe it will be written of him in that great day, like one of old, "He hath done what he could." No better epitaph could be placed upon the monument of any one than this.

Richard Musson has always been an earnest advocate of free schools, urging their importance upon those with whom he has been brought in contact, realizing ignorance and sin go hand in hand, while knowledge and righteousness dwell together. The efficient schools of his own town are in a measure due to him.

Thomas A. Mustain

Thomas A. Mustain was the third son of John and Elizabeth (Glenn) Mustain, and was born in Pittsylvania county, Virginia, on the thirteenth day of January, 1817. He is a full-blooded Virginian, both his parents being natives of that State. When fifteen years of a^e Thomas came with them to this State and county, where he has since continued to reside, and where he is well known by all our people. He has never followed any other occupation than that of farming, living with and assisting his parents until he reached his majority, when, together with his brother, he purchased the farm of John W. Woodsido, on section sixteen of Blandinsville township, which farm adjoined that of his father. Here he lived and toiled until the year 1865, when he purchased a portion of section nine of the same township, to which he removed, and where he has one of the best improved farms in the county, and on which he had built, in 1874, one of the largest and best brick dwellings in the county, one in which he can entertain a host of friends in true Virginia style. He is now the possessor of some of the best land in the county. Up to this time (1865) Mr. Mustain had successfully resisted all the arts and wiles of the fair sex, and had been given over as one of the unregenerate who would never submit to the better part ; but strange things will occur, and we find the bachelor armor broken, and on the iifteenth day of March, 1865, he was united in marriage with Martha K. Charter, daughter of the well known Jonathan Charter, another of the old pioneers of the county - one of those who endured the trials and privations of a frontier life that we might reap the benefit thereof. The result of this union has been six children, two of whom, before they had experienced any of the hardships of this world, were translated into that upper and better kingdom which is above.

In 1844, when the Mormon difficulties had assumed such proportions as to become necessary for the Governor of the State to call out its militia, Mr. Mustain enrolled his name and was chosen lieutenant of a company under command of George W. Blandin. For this service he received from the State the munificent sum of thirteen dollars and forty-four cents.

Mr. Mustain has never held public office of any kind, and has never aspired thereto, being content to be of that vast number who remain in obscurity to till the soil and lend strong hands and willing hearts to the advancement of local interests. The family of which he is a membr have done much for the improvement and welfare of Blandinsville township, and some of the best farms in it are held by them.

Thomas A Mustain is full six feet in height and weighs about 215 pounds. He is a man who takes life in an easy manner, attending to his own affairs in his own way and interfering with no others, lie is mild in government in the family circle, and as a neighbor he is all that is implied in the word. In politics he is a Democrat of the old school, serving his party in a faithful manner. If he ever scratches his ticket we do not know it. He is now a member of the Democratic countv central committee and lends his counsel and influence to the general success of the party.

Hon. William H. Xeece

Xo man in McDonough county is better known or more universally esteemed than AVilliam li. Xeece, who was born in Sangamon county, Illinois, on the twenty-sixth day of February, 1831, and brought by his parents to this county when only two months old. Here he has continued to reside to the present time. His parents were Jesse and Mary D. (Maupin) Keece; his father a Kentuckian by birth, while his mother was a native of A^irginia. The elder Xeece was a man of sterling worth, and in the early day was a man of some note. He died in 1869. The early life of Wm. H. ISTeece was passed on a farm and in attendance upon the common schools in this county - he never having had the advantage of a collegiate education. Until twenty-four he remained upon a farm, engaging in its laborious work. In 1857 he entered the law office of Judge John S. Bailey, for the purpose of reading law, which he had decided to adopt as a profession. For about one year he pursued his studies, and in 1858, having passed a creditable examination, was admitted to the bar, and to-day no man ranks higher in the profession in this county. Although not possessed of the thorough literary education of many others, his great energy and sterling common sense, his aptness in collecting and arranging evidence, have placed him in the front rank of his chosen profession. In criminal practice Mr. Neece has especially secured an enviable reputation, and there has probably not been an important trial for murder either in this or adjoining counties for a number of years but in which he has been engaged. In the celebrated Bond trials, both of Miles Bond, at Kushville, and John and James Bond, at Macomb, for the murder of AVilliam H. Eandolph, Mr. Xeece was the chief attorney for the defense, and to him more than to any other do the Bonds owe their release. He it was who collected, arranged and sifted all the evidence presented. Xo stone was left unturned that was beneficial to his clients; every flaw in the indictmeutor in the evidence of the prosecution was detected and used to the advantage of himself and clients. In this lies the great success of Mr. Neece as an attorney ; his patient investigation of a case and the zeal with which he works it up, enables him to triumph over all opposition. All the minor points, so often overlooked by the average attorney, and on which the merits of a case so frequently depend, are looked after as closely as those points open and apparent to all. Another case of great importance, and which required a large amount of patient investigation, was the trial of Thomas Johnson for murder. This was a change of venue from Henderson county, the home of the man charged with the commission of the crime, to McDonough. The same untiring efforts were made in this case as in the other, and with like result. Associated in the case were R. G. IngersoU, J. W. Davidson, and Charles Harris, for the defense, and C. F. Wheat, William Mc- Kenzie, and J. J. Glenn, for the prosecution, an array of talent the equal of the same number of men to be secured anywhere in the State. Again, in the case of Tuttle, for the murder of Miles Matteson, a case from Colchester, in this county, Mr. Neece was chief attorney in the defense. The jury hung, and the case was taken to Schuyler on a change of venue. In this case Mr. ISTeece did not secure the acquittal of his client, but obtained the shortest sentence possible under the circumstances.

In general practice Mr. ]^eece has been equally successful and pursues the same course for the benefit of his clients as in criminal practice, and in the prosecution of cases in the United States Bankrupt Court has had more business than any other attorney in the county, if not all combined. Also as a counsellor, he is safe and practical, and, in connection with the law upon the subject, makes use of that useful commodity called common sense in basing his opinions.

As a politician Mr. ISTeece is a Democrat of the old school, the principles of that time-honored party being inborn in him, and he is ever ready to defend them with the same zeal characterizing him in other walks of life. On several occasions has he been honored by the party with nominations for oflice, and a nomination has usually been equivalent to an election. In 18G4 he received the nomination for Representative in the Illinois Legislature and was triumphantly elected; again in 1870 with like result. In 1868 he was elected member of the Constitutional Convention that formed our present Constitution. In each of these capacities, he served his constituents in a faithful manner, attending closely to the business for which he was elected, rendering, in general, satistaction to men of all parties. In 1872 he received the nominatiou for Congress from the tenth Congressional District, of which McDonough county forms a part, and although running one thousand votes ahead of his ticket he was defeated. It is due to Mr. Xeece to say he has never ran for office without running ahead of his ticket, being personally popular all over the county, and wherever known. The reason for this will be shown further on. He has always been nominated against the best men of the opposition.

As previously remarked, Mr. Keece lived with his parents (who came to this county on the second day of April, 1831, and settled upon a farm two miles south of Colchester), until his twentieth year. In the fall of 1850 he engaged in chopping wood on the Illinois river, and in the winter worked in a pork house lor Charley Farwell (well known to old settlers), in Frederick. In the spring and summer of 1851 he broke prairie on Tennessee prairie, and in the winter iollowing attended school in Macomb, taught by D. S. Hampton, Esq. In the spring of 1852 he essayed to teach school in Walnut Grove township, which, as a faithful biographer, we must confess was not a success. But this did not deter him from again attempting the work, and we find him the winter following again engaged in teaching near the present location of Colchester. In this school he achieved better success, but probably not enough to cause him to adopt that business as a profession, as this is the last account we have of him engaged in like occupation.

In the spring of 1853, wishing to better his fortunes, he determined on emigrating to the land of gold, and, in company with his brother, George W. Neece, and famil}^ he crossed the plains with an ox team, arriving in Portland, Oregon, the September following. Here he only remained one month, when he proceeded to California, where, after making an unsuccessful attempt at mining, he engaged as a cook in a hotel operated on the European plan, in the city of Sacramento. This business he followed until the spring of 1854, when he again engaged in mining in company with his brother George, in the vicinity of Grass Valley, continuing the same in Nevada county until the lifteenth of May, 1855, when both returned to old McDonough.

On the third day of May, 1857, he was united in marriage to Miss Jennette Ingles, with whom he lives a happy and contented life. Three children, all of whom are yet living, have blessed their union. The family reside in a pleasant and comfortable home in the western part of the city of Macomb.

In searching for incidents in the life of Mr. Neece for this sketch we ran across the following article, published in the Macomb Journal August 14, 1873 :

"About 3 o'clock A. M. Monday last William H. Neece, Esq., of this city, was awakened by a noise in his sleeping room. On opening his eyes he was somewhat startled to see, by the light of a full shining moon, a stalwart fellow in the act of appropriating his pocket-book. Fully convinced that the man was a burglar, without awaiting an introduction, Mr. Neece gave a backhanded blow, at the same time jumping out of bed, and in solid battle line charged the enemy. The burglar was about as thoroughly startled by the sadden onslaught of the plucky lawyer as the lawyer was at first sighting the thief, but he soon showed that he didn't mean to stand and see himself whipped and captured, and the result was one of the most sharply contested fights that ever came off in Macomb. 'Brother Neece" handed the thief the hospitalities of his house in the shape of chairs, etc., in a lively manner, and the fellow responded with his fists and chairs which he wrested from his antagonist in the best style he knew how. Two or three times around the room did the men fight, and the thief made an effort to escape and ran into another room. Mr. Neece pursued, and here the combat was renewed. After a time they emerged into the ojjen air, and in the yard the fight was kept up until both were utterly exhausted, The thief was the largest and strongest of the two, and Mr. Neece was unable to hold or wrest his pocket-book from him. The house is quite remote from others, and it was not until after the robber had decamped that assistance, for which Mrs. Neece ran in the beginning of the affair, came. When it did come Mr. N. was lying in the j'ard where he had fainted from pure exhaustion.''

William H. i^^eece is of slender but well knit proportions, light hair and beard, the latter worn only upon the chin. As a husband and father he is kind and pleasant, as a friend and neighbor sympathetic and benevolent, as a citizen is alive to every public interest, and not as a politician but as a representative of the whole body does he work for the public good. From what has been written it can easily be inferred he is a man of the people. He has experienced the hardships and perils ot a pioneer life, and can sympathize with that class in all they are called upon to endure. By the "sweat of his face" he has toiled day after day for the necessaries of life and therefore knows the sorrows ot the poor, llis personal popularity is almost unbounded, especially among the class last mentioned, whose friend he has always been, and when a candidate for public office these facts are taken into consideration, the consequence being that he receives the votes of very many of the opposition. Such, in brief, is William H. Xeece. A bright future is doubtless yet before him.

Abraham Newland, Jr

The subject of this sketch is a native of England, having been born in the town of Evenwood, county of Durham, on the third day of February, 1838. His parents Avere Abraham and Sarah (Porter) Xewland, also of the same country, people in very moderate circumstances - so poor, in fact, that their son was only permitted to attend the common schools of his native town from the time he was five years of age until he was eight, at which time lie was placed in the coal mines of that country. During the first three years he was only compelled to w^ork from three to four days each week, but after that time six days was he required to labor. For several years he never saw daylight but once each week, going to his work each morning before day, and never returning until night. In the mine where he first worked, and during the whole time in which he remained, there was used for pumping water the first engine constructed for use on a locomotive. This engine is now kept in a glass case in the town of Darlington, Durham county, England, and was seen by Mr. Kewland when on a visit to his native country a few years ago.

The father of Abraham Newland was a God-fearing man and an earnest Christian, one wdio endeavored to bring up his children in the "fear and admonition of the Lord," and when his son was still an infant, he carried him in his arms to the Sabbath school. Here and at the family altar was sown the "good seed of the word," W'hich in after years bore fruit, and we trust will continue to bear fruit an hundred fold.

The opportunity for obtaining a competency in the old world is poor indeed to those born in povert}^ so in 1853 the father of Abraham sailed for the United States, and two vears thereafter sent for his family. On the twenty-ninth day of July 1855, Abraliam, w'ith his mother and the rest of the family, left their native shores, sailing for Kew York, at which place they arrived in due time, and from thence coming west to LaSalle, in this State, where the husband and father had obtained employment in the ,coal mines of that county. For two years they remained there, when ihey proceeded further west, settling in the town of Colchester, this county, in the year 1857, at which place they yet remain. Employment was at once obtained in the coal mines by father and son, and until the year 1S62 Abraham continued to work faithfully and to the satisfaction of his employers and his own conscience. Although but a young man, he was recognized as a leader among his fellow miners, and in all cases where a spokesman was required to make known their wants and desires to their employers, he was put forward as their representative. As before remarked, he continued to work in the mines until the year 1862, at which time he enlisted as a private in Capt. Brink's company. 124th Eegiment Illinois Volunteers, to serve three years or during the war. The men at this time desired him to accept the office of lieutenant, but this he refused for one older in years. He was appointed by the captain fourth sergeant, but at the request of the men he was made orderly sergeant of the company. In this capacity he went out, serving as such until promoted. As probably well known by our readers, the 124th did excellent service in the war, and no man in the entire regiment showed more braverv or discharored his dutv more faithfullv than the coal digger, Abraham Xewland, Jr. At the battle of Eaymond, Miss., while an orderly sergeant, he commanded the company, there being no commissioned officer present, and for bravery upon the battle field he was commended by the colonel, who promised him promotion.

At the battle of Champion Hills, a few days thereafter, he was shot through the jaw, and falling upon the field, was reported as killed. Life being discovered in him, he was taken up and removed to the hospital, and word was given out that he was mortally wounded. At the hospital the surgeon of his regiment discovered him, and took him in charge. A cot was provided, and he was placed thereon, when the surgeon ordered some brandy and water to be given him. Xot being able to speak, he motioned the mixture away with his hand; he was still urged to partake, but still refused, when the doctor, losing his^patience, turned on his heel, saying, "D - n him, let him die."' As soon as his passion had cooled the doctor returned and dressed his wounds, making him as comfortable as possible. For weeks be suffered, until finally the wound healed and he was again restored to active duty. One of the lieutenants of his company resigning, an application was made to have him commissioned to fill the vacancy, bnt before the matter was completed Captain Brink resigned and he received the appointment and was duly commissioned as Captain and the command of the company given him. This position he retained during the remainder of the war, receiving the respect of his men and duly honored by his brother ofiicers. On the fifteenth day of August, 1865, the regiment was discharged and Captain Xewland returned home to meet his wife and little ones and take his position in civil life once more.

The life of a miner was never agreeable to Captain Xewland, and he had determined long before this to change it should the opportunity offer. TTe therefore find him within two weeks from the time of his return home opening out a stock of dry goods and eroeeries, investing in the business all the monev he broueht with him from the army, amounting to the sum of eleven hundred dollars. Xearly twelve years has since elapsed, and we find the little stock increased to an extent requiring a large room for storino" the goods and the trade of the house increased in proportion: we find he has continually added to his capital; that investments made by him have increased wonderfully, and to-day he is in possession of a sum that would enable him to retire from active life and live at ease. All this as a legitimate growth of business enterprise and sagacity.

of this nature than any regular minister in the county. In Sunday school work he is especially pre-eminent, having from childhood taken great interest in this part of the Lord's vineyard. In all the neighborliood Sunday school conventions he is called upon to take an active part, and in the county work he is behind none.

Captain Newland has been twice married, the first time to Miss Mary J. Musson, daughter of Richard Musson, Esq., the ceremony taking place on the third day of March, 1859. By her he had five children, two only of whom are now living, three of the children, with their mother, having passed over the river to the better land, where, in that beautiful city whose streets are paved with gold, they wait the coming of other loved ones. Mrs. IS^ewland died on the fifteenth day of January, 1871, in the full assurance of hope. On the eighteenth day of June, 1872, he was again married, leading to the altar Miss Annie Musson, a sister of his deceased wife.

Abraham Xewland is a man of medium height, light complexion, blue eyes, light hair and beard, a well developed head, and is every inch a man. JSTo man stands higher in the community than he, and none deserves more from his fellow-citizens. He is a pleasant, agreeable gentleman, having a heart overflowing with love of humanity, a friend to the poor, and above all, a true Christian. In the home circle he is kind and affectionate ; in the church an earnest worker; as a citizen he has the good of all at heart and works to advance the interests of his adopted town and county as much as his own individual interests. Would we had more Abraham ISTewlands.

Asa K. Owen

The subject of our present sketch is now in the prime of life, having been born on the twenty-sixth day of March, 1838, in Philometh, Indiana. His parents were Asaland Elizabeth (Grafton) Owen, the former being a native of Kentucky, and the latter of Virginia. At the birth of Asa his father was in good circumstances, but shortly after became unfortunate, losing his all, and like thousands of others, sought new fields of labor, coming to McDonough county in 1841, here living, with the exception of about five years spent in Adams county, this State, until the day of his death. The educational advantages of Asa were limited to the common schools of this county, and a few month's attendance in the High School of Professors Barge and Cannon, in

Macomb ; but notwithstanding, by constant application and study at home he has mastered nearh' all the sciences usually taught in the academies and colleges of the AVest. About nine years ot his life has been spent in teaching, choosing this as a profession, it being well suited to his taste and more lucrative than any other business requiring no capital but talents, lie has occupied the position of teacher in several difierent States of the Union, having taught in the High School of St. Paris, Ohio, and in various schools of this State and Missouri. At the breaking out of the war in 1861, he was teaching in this latter State, and on account of his Free-soil and Union principles, was invited to leave. He at once returned home and began the work of raising recruits for the army, but on account of ill-health he was refused enrollment himself, which was a great disappointment, as it was his desire to do all he could in the defense of his country. Although his services were declined in the field, j-et at home he could work for the cause, and no more loyal man could be found in the county than Asa K. Owen. As a "mite" he contributed to the songs oi his country a battle hymn entitled "During the Battle," which was published by H. M. Higgins, one of the leading music publishers of the countr3\ For a number of years past Mr. Owen has contributed, over various 7iom de pluriies, considerable to the press of the country, both prose and poetry. His articles are all well written, and, as will be observed elsewhere in this work, are very readable and ot much interest. "The McDonough County Pioneers," and " Autumn in McDonough County, " will appeal to every one.

On the twenty-sixth day of March, 1865 (the anniversary of his birth), he led to the marriage altar Miss X. A. Edmundson. Three children hath the Lord given them, one of whom has passed over the river and dwells on the other side ; two yet remain to add joy and comfort to their parents' hearts.

Mr. Owen is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, having united with that body in 1868, under the ministration of Elder Underwood, by whom he was baptized. Since becoming identii tied with the body of Christ, he has endeavored to use such talents I as the Lord has given him for the advancement of the Redeemer's I cause. He has for some time held the office of steward in his own congregation, and also that of district steward. The steward is the financial officer of the M. E. Church, and corresponds to that of deaeon in other churches. In the Sunday School work he also takes great interest, realizing its great importance and laboring zealously in the good cause.

In the western part of the county, where he is best known, Mr. Owen is quite popular, and as a member of the Eepublican party, he wields considerable influence. On several occasions he has been pressed by his friends to run for public office, but only once has his name been submitted to the people - in 1873, when he received the nomination for County Clerk at a very unfortunate time, as the farmers and laboring classes were then generally excited over the cry of monopoly uttered against the manufacturing and mercantile classes, and uniting under the name of Anti- Monopoly party, swept the country like a whirlwind. One satisfaction was aftbrded Mr. Owen when the result of the canvass was made known : he ran ahead of his ticket considerably, notwithstanding there were on it other very popular men. lie has been honored by his township and town on several occasions, and has served as Postmaster of Tennessee for some years. We yet believe his services will be called forth by his party and his fellowcitizens.

In 1865 he opened a stock of general merchandise in Tennessee, and has continued in the mercantile business ever since - a period of twelve years. He has also the greater portion of the time engaged in the grain trade, purchasing for shipment, the small grain brought to that market. Success has crowned his efforts, and to-day we find him in good comfortable circumstances, every dollar of his wealth gained by a life of toil in a straight forward legitimate way. Some three years ago he purchased a farm lying one mile west of town on which he resides with, his famil}'. The farm is well improved, with a good comfortable house in which to live, and where, surrounded by wife and children, he can enjoy life.

Asa K. Owen is about five feet eight inches in height, good proportions, well developed head, black hair and eyes, full, fiowing, black beard, and of good address. Ko man stands higher in the community than he, none deserves more from his fellow-citizens. As a friend and neighbor he is kind and benevolent, as a husband and father, he rules with love and receives the love of all iti return.

McDonongh coiiuty has been especially fortuiiate in the selection of her county officers, never since its organization to the present time having lost a dollar by the betrayal of her trusts, and no man ever served more faithfully than Isaac X. Pearson, the present efficient Circuit Clerk, who was born in Centerville, Pennsylvania, July 27, 1842. Ills parents were Isaac S. and Lydia (Painter) Pearson, both natives of Pennsylvania. Ills father was lor many years engaged in the mercantile business and served his county (Butler) in the Legislature of his native State. In 184G after bidding his family good-bye, he departed for Philadelphia to purchase goods. While there he was taken sick with the fever, from which he never recovered, and died in that city far from home and kindred, none of the family ever being permitted to see his face again. He was buried by the Society of Friends in that city, being connected b}^ birth with that body of faithful disciples of Christ. Mrs. Pearson, with the family, shortly after her husband's death, went to Xew Castle, Lawrence county, which place she made her home until the year 18 i9, when she removed to Hancock county tliis State, settling near the town of La Ilarpe, I where she resided until her removal to Macomb in 1858. In this j latter place she resided nntil her death, which occurred on the i third day of March, 1872, being at the time sixty-six years of age, I departing this life on the anniversary day of her birth. Mrs. j Pearson, when but eighteen years of age, made a profession of re- 1 ligion, uniting with the M. E. church, with which body she re- Imained a consistent and faithful member until called to join the I angelic throng above. She was a woman universally respected by all who knew her, and combined in her being many rare qualities which go to make the true woman and mother. Her funeral was largely attended. Rev, Henderson Ritchie, who had long been intimately acquainted with her, delivering the funeral discourse: j "Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord ; yea, and from hence iforth they shall rest from their labors and their works do follow 'them," viously meationed, paasiu^ the first eight years of his life in a town, and the eight following upon a farm. The only educational advantages enjoyed by him were in the common schools and two years attendance in the select school ot Prof. J. W. Mathews, in Macomb, in the years of 1856-57. In 1861, he entered the office of J. B. Cummings, Circuit Clerk of the county, serving as Recorder until he became of age, when he received the appointment from Mr. Cummings as Deputy Circuit Clerk, which position he filled acceptably until the expiration of Mr. Cumming's term of ofiice. In the spring of 1865, he went to Bushnell to take a position in the banking house of Messrs. Chandler & Cummings, with whom he remained until the fall of 1868, when he again received the appointment of Deputy Circuit Clerk, this time from B. F. Pinkley, then elected to the office of Circuit Clerk of the county. This position he retained for the four years' term of Captain Pinkley, giving such satisfaction to the people that in 1872, he received the unanimous nomination by his party for the same ofiice. ISTotwithstandiug some opposition to him on account of his being a young man, he was triumphantly elected, receiving a greater majority than any man on the ticket. Again in 1876 he was renominated by acclamation, and again elected by a majority greater than any other, being three hundred votes ahead of his ticket, thus proving that the people believe it no crime to be a young man and that faithful service should be rewarded. The popularity of Mr. Pearson with the people is great indeed, but easily accounted for. He is always pleasant and accommodating to all; every visitor to his office, whether on business or not, is treated in a gentlemanly manner ; his own private business, or the duties of the public office which he holds, is never neglected. Having business that brings him into daily intercourse with men of all parties, they have a chance to learn the qualities of the man, and show their appreciation for him by giving him their votes for office. Many of the strongest men of the opposition party never think of voting for another when he is a candidate.

Mr. Pearson is a thorough and consistent Republican, the principles of that party being "bred in the bone," but he never allows his love of party to deter him from duty as a public officer. As a citizen he is ever ready to engage in any good word or work satisfactory to his judgment, and in all enterprises as are of a public benefit and calculated to advance the best interests of the town or county. Benevolence with him is a ruling passion, and we find him counected with, and an active member of, the Ancient Order of United Workmen, the Masons, and Odd Fellows. In this latter body he has passed all the chairs, both in the Subordinate Lodge and Encampment, having also represented the lodge in the Grand Lodge of the State.

Mr. Pearson is a man five feet eleven inches and a half in height, dark hair, brown eyes, and of good proportions physically. No man in the county has a larger circle ot friends and acquaintances, and none are more greatly esteemed. Through his own exertion, without assistance from any, he has accumulated a fair share of this world's goods, which wnll doubtless be used for the good of tlie public as well as his own individual profit. A bright future is doubtless yet before him.

Joseph E. Porter

Joseph E. Porter, sou of Xoah and Xabby (Comins) Porter, was born in Wendell, Franklin county, Mass., July 9, 1821. His parents were born at the same place in 1795. There were eleven children, including the subject of this sketch, nine of whom grew to man's estate. They received their education principally at !Xew Salem Academy, N^ew Salem, Massachusetts, whither their father had removed for the purpose of giving them this advantage. One attended Harvard College. The father and brothers were all highly respected and esteemed where they resided and all were honored wdth public office. The oldest brother was for fifteen years a Selectman and Justice of the Peace, one brother was a member of the State Senate of !!Srew Hampshire, and another has held the position of cashier of the First jSTational Bank of Iveene, IST. H., for a period of twenty-five years, and still another has been a practicing physician in Old Deerfield, Massachusetts, for a period of twenty-five years. "Warren, the youngest of the family, was a citizen of this county for some years, and went into the army and for a time was Lieutenant of Company L, 7th Illinois Cavalry. He is now Superintendent of the graded schools at Bridgeport, Conn., which position he has filled for some 3'ears.

Joseph was reared on a farm, and worked hard from the time he was large enough to take hold of the plow. His habits in youth were exemplary, moral, upright and straightforward. He remained with his father until he attained his majority, shortlyafter which period he was joined in marriage with Miss Susan M.

Cogswell, and left the parental roof and hired out to work on a farm. He worked eight mouths for one man for §14 per month, and during that time lost but half a day, on which occasion he took his wife to town, and his employer charged him seventy-five cents for the use of the horse. "While working for these wages he paid §3 for a church pew and ten cents each Sunday for the privilege of sending his wife to church, besides keeping up the ordinary expenses of his family, notwithstanding which he managed to save $100 a jear out of his earnings.

Mr. Porter has been farming all his life, with the exception of one year, when he was engaged in the bakery business, at Framingham, Mass. lie invested §1,000 in the business, all of which was lost.

In 1855 Mr. Porter came to Illinois with his father on a visit to his brothers, Lyman and Reuben, who were living in this county. While here his father died ; his remains were taken back to Massachusetts. In the spring of 1856 Mr. Porter removed to this county, locating on the farm on which he now resides, section 4, ^STew Salem township. At that time it was raw, wild prairie, now it is one of the finest farms in the county, containing four hundred acres of well cultivated land, with good improvements thereon. He is one of McDonough's heavy stock feeders, engaging in this business very extensively.

Mr. Porter has been three times elected, and for three vears served in the McDonough county Board of Supervisor from Xew Salem township, and for fifteen years has been School Trustee of the same township, most of the time Chairman of the Board of Trustees. He has always manifested due interest in the affairs of his township, especially in the educational department, and the good schools in the community are in a great measure the result of his labor and attention in that behalf.