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

Biographical sketches

James AV. Fee, postmaster at Blandinsville, 111., was born iu Clermont county, Ohio, on the twenty-sixth day of August, 1826, and came to this State in 1848, settling in Pike county, where he remained seven years, when he crossed the Mississippi, takicg up his residence in Missouri, from which place he returned to Pike county, 111., on the breaking out of the war, enlisting in August, 1862, and mustered in the United States service as First Lieutenant, Co. B, 99th regiment, Illinois Volunteers. "With this regiment he continued, first, as Lieutenant, then as Captain, until the close of the war, being mustered out July 31, 1865. The regiment t did most excellent service during the whole period, participating ( in quite a number ot battles and skirmishes, and in the memorable seige of Vicksburg, losing 253 men. In one assault in which 300 men were engaged, 103 of the number were either killed or r wounded. Captain Fee during his whole period of service never r had a leave of absence and continued with his command until its « final muster out, not losing even a day's time by sickness. AVhen i the regiment was consolidated into a batallion he was the only officer retaining his rank and letter of the company. At the expiration of his term ot service Captain Fee returned to Pike county, where he remained some eighteen months, going from there to Oquawka, Henderson county, w^here he remained until 1874, when he removed to Blandinsville, where he has since continued to reside. A short time after his removal to the village he received the appointment of Postmaster, the only public otiice he ever held.

hope of the gospel, being devout members of the M. E. Church, of which bod}- their son united at the early age of fifteen, remaining in its connection some seven or eight years. At this time, by a careful study of the AV^ord, his religious convictions underwent a change in some of the points of doctrine, and he sought membership in the Baptist church.

AVith this branch of God's family he yet retains membership, and has labored in word and doctrine for the advancement of the cause for many years. In 1860 he was ordained as a minister of the gospel in Missouri, since which time he has continued occasionally to preach, but never giving himself wholly to the work, and never depending upon it for the means of subsistence. Since reaching man's estate, he has continually engaged in the mercantile trade, save for the period while employed in the military service of his country. In this way he has lived, devoting such time aa he could command, or as he conceived he could accomplish good by the proclamation of the gospel. He has served as pastor for several congregations and also as supply. He is now connected with the congregation at Blandinsville, and is a member of the Salem Association, of which body he has been treasurer for two years.

In youth Captain Fee gave promise of the same traits of character that have distinguished him in latter life. He was a good, steady boy, and no one was afraid to trust him on any occasion or in any way. During the whole period of his life he has never taken a drink of whisky, notwithstanding he has been thrown much in the company of those who have indulged in the practice.

In October, 1852, he led to the marriage altar Miss Lucy M. Parks, daughter of Rev. N. Parks, with whom he has lived a happy and pleasant life to the present time. ISTo children have blessed their union.

Captain Fee is a large, robust looking man, w^ith the appearance of being able to enjoy life as well as another. In every good word and work we find him actively engaged. His labors are not confined alone to "our church," and in charity he holds out the hand to the needy on every side. AVe believe there is little of that selfish nature in his being ; that he is willing "to do good as he may have opportunity, especially to the household of faith." He enjoys the respect and confidence of all who know him.

Harvey L. Ross

The subject of onr present sketch was born in Seneca county, ^ew York, on the tenth day of October, 1817, and when but four years of age came with his father, O. M. Ross, to the State of Illinois, settlino; in what is now known as Fulton county, at that time being a part of Pike county. Fulton county was organized some two years after. Its boundary line extended east and west from the Illinois to the Mississippi river, and from the base line near where Rushville now stands to the northern boundary of the State, including the country where Rock Island, Galena, Chicago and Peoria now stand. His father was a soldier in the war of 1812, and moved upon the land secured by service in that war, lying north of the present town of Lewistown, which town was laid off by him the following year after his arrival, viz. : in 1822. He was the first sheriff of the county elected by the people ; was the first postmaster in the county ; raised the first ten acres of corn, and the first crop of wheat and rye. The only settlements within the boundary of the county at this time were one near the present town of Rushville, Lewistown, Canton, Chicago and Fort Clark, now Peoria, Lewistown being the county seat and the largest town in the county, and the only place where elections were held. When his father was elected sheriff' of the county, in 1823, the excitement ran high, being a contest between jSTorth and South Fulton. The voters at that time came from Fort Clark down the Illinois river, a distance of fifty miles, in canoes ; then up Spoon river ten miles ; then on foot through the woods six miles to Lewistown to deposit their ballots, bringing their whisky with them, without which it was thought impossible to travel or to preperly exercise the rights of American citizens. Many of those from the south part of the county came a distance of thirty miles.

The elder Ross carried on farming, and was also engaged in the mercantile business in Lewistown up to the year 1829, at which time he removed to where the present town of Havana is, now the county seat of Mason county. The land on which the town now lies was entered by him and by him laid off for the town. Here he built a large hotel, and also owned the first ferry rim across the river at that place. He also carried on a large wholesale and retail mercantile business, and had an extensive trade with the Indians. He died at this point in 1837, his loss being deeply felt and regretted by every one. The following year (1838) the widow, with the family, moved to Canton, in Fulton county. In 1839, Harvey L., of whom we now write, returned to Havana and took charge of the old homestead, continuing the hotel and ferry business, which his father had established, and engaged extensively in other lines of trade. AVe hnd him at one time, in addition to carrying on a livery stable, running a stage route from Springtield to Lewistown, making three trips each week, keeping a Avood-yard for the accommodation of steamboats, a warehouse in Havana, and two on the opposite side of the river for the storage of goods and produce, carrying on a large farm, acting as postmaster, all of which he superintended himself.

In the spring of 1880, Mr. Ross had the pleasure of riding upon the iirst steamboat that ever ran upon the Illinois river as far as Havana. This boat, the Liberty, was commanded by Captain Sam. Bailey, well known to all pioneers.

When fifteen years of age, Mr. Ross was employed to carry the mail from Springfield to Monmouth, a distance of one hundred and thirty-tive miles, making a trip each week. He would often have to swim streams three or four times each day, with the mail bags strapped across his shoulders. At that time there was no direct road between Knoxville and Monmouth, a distance of twenty miles, and not a single house between the two points. His only guide along the route was j^oints of timber. He tells us that he still has a vivid recollection of his hair gently raising one stormy night in January, when in the vicinity ot the present town of Galesburg, on hearing a pack of hungry wolves set up a tremendous howling a few rods behind him. He lost no time in reaching the end of his journey, The only postoffices on the route were Springfield, Sangamon Town, Xew Salem, Havana, Lewistown, Canton, Farmington, Knoxville and Monmouth. Abraham Lincoln, our martyr president, was then postmaster at ISTew Salem, receiving his appointment on the recommendation of Mr. Ross' father, who was one ot the oldest postmasters in the country, and the only postmaster at that time within the boundaries of the present county of Mason. After carrying the mail for a length of time over that long, dangerous and desolate route, his father let out a part of it to an uncle of Harvey, Malon Winans, the part let being from Lewistown to Monmouth. Winans had a son that he intended to put upon the route, but conchided to go over u - 31 it himself that he might make all necessary arrangements for stopping places. But his first trip was his last, for in attempting to swim Spoon river, with the mail bags strapped to his back, he was drowned. His Ijody was afterwards found in a drift of wood one-half mile below the crossing. A coffin was made of rough boards and the body bu"ied on the banks of the river, near the present town of Maquon.

Mr. Ross, in his youthful days, was very fond of hunting and trading with the Indians. "When but seven years of age he had killed wild turkeys, geese, and small game of almost every kind, and at twelve thought ao thing of killing a fine deer. He says he also remembers catching twelve wolves in less than a month in steel traps, placed near a dead horse. He relates some incid.ents of the first trading expedition in which he was engaged, which occurred in 1828. He started from Lewistown in company with Edward Plnde, a Frenchman and Indian interpreter, and "Bill' Eveling, a large powerful man, in the employ of his father. This Eveling was a son of one of the oldest pioneers of the county, was well acquainted with the country and familiar with the Indian character. They loaded a two-horse wagon, at Lewistown, with Indian goods and traveled through what is now known as Peoria and Knox counties, where they found plenty of Indians, and traded their goods to a good advantage, returning home with their wagons loaded with furs and deer skins. They were gone three weeks, and had traveled about one hundred and fifty miles, only meeting with two white settlers alter leaving the neighborhood of Canton.

In speaking of Indians Mr. Boss tells us he cannot remember of ever being frightened by the Indians but once. In 1825, when but eight years of age, his father sent him to an old shoemaker by name of Stephen Meeker, living about four miles east of Lewistown, to have some work done. In cominir home with a sack ot ehoes across his horse, and when he had traveled about half the distance along the little path through heavy timber and thick underbrush, he came suddenly upon five or six red skins who were sitting upon the ground. One of the Indians jumping up, made a grab at his bridle reins, but young Boss turned his horse quickly around; and giving him a cut with his whip, hurried back to Meeker's and related his story. Meeker at once took down his rifle, loaded it, and cutting a hickory club, went back with him. "When the Indians saw Meeker with his rifle and club, they commenced to apologize, stating that they were not going to hurt the boy. They had been to Lewistowu to trade, and had been drinking, and probably onl}' desired to see what was in the and ecare the boy.

The early recollections of Mr. Koss are many indeed, and his <?xpcrience in pioneer life was probably greater than any man now living among ns. He remembers of partaking of a piece 'of fat bear killed by Andrew Laswell near the present town of Cuba, Fulton county. This was in the spring of 1820.

The first wheat raised in Fulton county was in 1823, and had to be cut with a sickle or reaping-hook and thrashed with the flail, winnowed with a sheet, ground in a horse-mill, and bolted with a hand bolt. The truck wagon was the principal one used in the first settlement. He has known them to do good service for several years on a farm, and there was not a pound of iron nor a nail used in building them. All lumber used' at this time was sawed with the whipsaw run by a couple of men.

Mr. Ross was at the first Fourth of July celebration ever held in Fulton county, which was in 1823. His father delivered the oration and Captain David W. Barnes, the father of Major Barnes of Bushnell, acted as marshal of the day. In the evening, after the celebration was over, the Indians held a war dance on the same ground.

People in this country often complain of the scarcity of provisions, but Mr. Ross can remember when the onl}' bread they had was that made from corn grated on a corn grater.

Harvey L. Ross was united in marriage with Miss Jane R. Kirkpatrick, of Canton, 111., on the first day of January, 1840. By her he has had five children, two daughters and three sons.

In 1843 jSIr. Ross moved to Vermont, in Fulton county, where he purchased fifty acres of land adjoining the town, and began its improvement. He kept adding to his possessions in that neighborhood from time to time, until he had three hundred acres, and one of the best improved farms in the county, and with an orchard of a thousand apple trees, from which he has gathered, some seasons, as many as ten thousand bushels of apples.

While he was improving and adding to his possessions in Fulton county, he was not unmindful of the rich prairie soil in Mc- Honough, and put in cultivation upwards of one thousand acres of land in that county. Wliile farming has occupied the principal part of his time, yet he has engaged, from time to time, in other business. After moving to Vermont, he was for fifteen years engaged in the mercantile trade, buying and shipping grain, and packing pork. lie was also appointed agent and had the supervision of the Vermont branch ot the Fulton Bank, which was located at A^ermont in 1859, and was the first bank established in the county.

In 1873, he traded a portion of his farm in Fulton county for a farm of two hundred acres near the city of Macomb, selling the balance for twelve thousand dollars, and then removed to Macomb, where he yet resides and where he will doubtless remain until called to join the glorified throng above.

Mr. Ross never had the advantages of any special education, the only instruction ever received was in a log school-house, with puncheon floor, mud chimnej^, oiled paper wnndow lights, and split logs for benches. Realizing the difficulties under which he has labored, without sufficient knowledge, has caused him always to take a great interest in the cause of education, and no one will do more than he will for the improvement of our public schools.

aSTot only in educational matters has he taken special interest, but in all matters tending to the public good and the general improvement of the country. To the first railroad built through Fulton county he donated over three thousand dollars in cash, besides giving the right of way through his farm, together with the ground for a depot at A^ermont. He also acted as railroad director for two years while the road was being built, for which service he has never received a dollar by way of compensation, unless it has been in cheap transportatian, though he says he is not exactly clear on that point, as he remembers having to pay $1 40 per hundred for freight from Chicago to Macomb on the C, B. & Q. R. R., while he also remembers the time when the Springfield merchants, and others through the country, were enabled for a number of years to get their goods hauled about the same distance by ox teams at fifty cents a hundred. He also remembers the time when he was part owner of a steamboat and ran on it as clerk and signing bills of lading carrying freight a much greater distance than from Chicago to Macomb for ten cents per hundred.

For a number of years Mr. Ross has taken a great interest in the cause ot temperance, and reUites the following incident in this connection. He had gone to Jacksonville, this State, in 1834, to take his oldest brother and sister who were attending school at that place, and, one evening while walking from the college to the town with Kichard Yates and some other students, Yates said to him: " Koss, are you going to the temperance meeting tonight ? A lawyer from McDonoiigh county is to speak." He answered he would go. Yates at this time was a student of great promise in the college and was for three years a room-mate of Lewis W. Ross, brother of Ilarvc}^ L. The lawyer from Mc- Donough that delivered the address was no less a personage than Hon. Cyrus Walker, frequently spoken of in this work, and one of the best attorneys in the State of Illinois. At the conclusion of the lecture, Richard Yates, "Bill" Carlin and a couple of young ladies were appointed to circulate the pledge. The arguments of Mr. AYalker were so convincing that when Yates, who slowly made his wav through the crowded room, came to Mr. Ross, he signed it without hesitation and has faithfully kept it to the present time.

But how has it been with poor "Dick" Yates and "Bill" Carlin, the two young students who circulated the pledge and who graduated from the college with high honors? Yates, after filling many responsible positions, among them Governor of the great State of Illinois and United States Senator, died in a third-class hotel in St. Louis, away from home, family, and friends, with only a servant to close his eyes in death ; while Carlin, who was a son of ex-Governor Carlin, and who also filled a number of offices of honor and profit, died an inebriate.

Mr. Ross has never indulged in the use of intoxicating liquors, though raised where it was used constantly and by all classes ; has never taken a chew of tobacco, smoked a cigar, or had a day's sickness in his life, and has never found the boy or man who could beat him rinning or jumping.

In 1843 Mr, Ross made a profession of religion and united with the Presbyterian church in Yermont, with which body he remained in connection until his removal to Macomb. For four years previous to his removal to the latter place, he was a ruling elder in the church at Yermont, and now occupies the same position in the church at Macomb. He takes great interest in the

Sunday School work, and is an efficient worker in that useful tield of labor. He is also a life member of the American Bible Society, and no good word or work but what meets and secures his hearty co-operation. As a man, he enjoys the respect of every one, having few, if indeed, any enemies. He stands about five feet eight inches in height, of slender but well knit proportions,, and has an excellent constitution. He is a man of great energy, and fulfills the divine injunction -' AV^hatsoever thy hand iindeth to do, do with thy might."

Unsought, Mr. Eoss received the nomination as representative to the legislature for the counties of McDonough and AVarren from the Independent party in 1874, but not having been a resident of the district suthcieut time to make him elis:ible to theoffice, he therefore withdrew from the canvass. Ilud he run, he undoubtedly would have been elected.

Joseph Shaxnox

The subject of this sketch was born in Tuscarawas county,, Ohio, on the twenty-third day of JSTovember, 1818. His parents were Thomas and Rebecca (Davis) Shannon, natives of Pennsylvania. His father died when he was about two years old, and about twelve years after his mother again married. Boy that he was, Joseph now decided on leaving home and henceforth do for himself. Without aid from any one, he educated himself, attending first the common schools in the winter, and, in due course of time, entering Kenyou College, Gambler, Ohio. In this institution he spent some time, paying his board and tuition by working for the professors. In this act he showed a trait of character that might well be imitated by many at this day. Many young men at the present time, instead of going forward and by their own exertions acc^uiring knowledge that would be beneficial to them in after life, and likewise developing in themselves a degree of manhood and independence, wait supinely for some well-endowed institution to give them instruction without uioney and without price.

Farming has ever been the regular occupation of Mr. Shannon, though for many years he engaged in teaching during the winter months. He now lives on a well-improved farm on section 25, Mound township. Leaving Ohio he came to Fulton county, in this State, where he lived a short time, or until the spring of 1857, when he removed to his present place of residence.

In politics Mr. Sliannon is a Republican. He keeps well read in the political news of the day, and therefore acts understandingly. For six years he has represented his township as a member of the Board of Supervisors and is its present representative. In all his official relations he pursues the same course as in conducting his private business. Bills of doubtful character are never permitted to pass with his sanction, and no member looks more closely to the interests of his constituents.

In 1840 Mr. Shannon -was married to Miss Delilia Milner. Six children have blessed their union, five of whom still live, one son dying from the efl[ects of wounds received at the battle of Shiloh, in the late rebellion. Mr. Shannon is a man of miany good qualities of head and heart, and there is in him much to commend.

John William Siders

This gentleman is a native of Ohio, having been born in Highland county, of that State, on the 31st day of March, 1839. His father, Henry Siders,. was born near Frederick, Md., but at an early age emigrated to Virginia, the native State of his mother, whose maiden name was Nancy Kidd. The young couple were poor in this world's goods, but rich in faith, and with a will and determination to dare and do. Shortly after marriage they moved to Ohio, settling in Highland county, wdiere they made their liomes for some years. Mr. Siders was a hard- working man, one that never shirked duty in any respect. It is said of him that he could clear more land of its timber and brush than any man in the whole State. The first recollection of the subject of our present sketch is in living in the timber, gathering together, piling up and burning the brush from the fallen trees. At the age of six years he was sent to the common schools of the county in which he lived, this being continued for four months in each year until he was twelve years of age, since which time he had onl^' forty days' schooling. During this last period duties were placed upon him which the youth of our land at present would doubtless rebel against. With nine others he was classed off two and two, and one day in each -week would have to cut the wood amd build the fire in the old-fashioned fire-place, which was eight feet wide and which required for one filling a very large amount of wood. The school-house was situated in a valley, and whole

In 1856, with his parents, he came to McDonough county, settling in Emmet township, where he has since resided until within the past year, when he removed to Macomb on his accession to the office of county treasurer to which he had been elected the year previous. All the best years of his life have been spent on a farm, and for nearly twenty years of that time he has worked on the farm in summer and taught school in the winter.

As a teacher he has been eminently successful. Notwithstanding the short time spent in the schools of the county, he has at home studied hard to prepare himself for usefulness in life. He is a self-educated and a self-made man in every respect. He is a kind friend and neighbor, enjoying the contidence and respect of all who know him. A strict temperance man, he is known and recognized by all. While a candidate for office, not one cent did he spend for liquor, directly or indirectly. While the Good Temj)lars were in existence in the county, he was a good working member and known as such throughout the State.

Benjamin F. Thompson

Among the early settlers of Adams county, 111., were Josiah and Louey (Tibbits) Thompson, the parents of the subject of our present sketch, who emigrated from Ohio in 1830, the summer before the big snow. Mr. Thompson wasanOhioan by birth, while Mrs. Thompson first saw the light of day in the State of Maine, but when a small child was taken to Ohio w^hcre she was raised, and where she was married. When they arrived in Adams county, and for several years after, they were in very limited circumstances and in consequence suffered more or less, especially during the winter following their arrivah

Benjamin Franklin Thompson was born in Fall Creek township, Adams county, Illinois, on the seventh day of November, 1835, and spent the early part of his life upon a farm with his parents, and in attending the common schools of the county as the opportunity offered. He was an easy, good-natured boy, full of fan, and extremely fond of practical jokes, which seemed to be an inherent trait in the family.

Seminar}, in Abingdon, for about the same length of time, obtaining a pretty thorough knowledge of the English language as well as the sciences. For about nine years thereafter he engaged in teaching some eight or nine months each year, the balance of the time working upon a farm. As a teacher, he met with good success, it being a profession suited to his nature. AVhile engaged in this work, near Hillsgrove in this county, he first met Miss Mary S. Walker, daughter of one of the old pioneers of McDonough, Andrew J. Walker, of Tennessee township. The meeting resulted in a friendship which ripened into love, and on the second day of April, 1862, the couple were married. Five children have been born unto them, two only of whom remain to bless the hearts of their parents, three having been called to join the happy throng upon the other side, where in the sweet bye-and-bye it is hoped the family will again be united never more to be separated, and where tears and sorrows never come. The father and mother of Mrs. Thompson departed this life in the winter of 1864, both being carried away by the same disease, diptheria, and within one week of each other. They were a couple well known and respected in their neighborhood.

After marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Thompson settled in Adams county, where Mr T. purchased a small tract of land which he endeavored to improve for a permanent home. While on a visit to this county, William M. Latimer, who was running a store

1 cept, and in the fall of 1865, he sold his land in Adams county, purchased the store and residence property of Mr. L., and moved his family to the place, where he has since continued to reside, and where the little "one-horse store" has grown to first class proportions, and its trade second to few in the Militarj' tract.

In 1864, Mr. Thompson experienced a change of heart, and united with the Methodist Episcopal Church, with which body he yet retains connection, being in Tennessee one of its most active members. In the Christian work he never tires, using the talents the Lord has given him for the advancement of his cause. He

Ichester Circuit, and also a Trustee of the Church in Tennessee. In the Sunday school work, he has always taken the greatest interest, l)eing an active worker in that cause. No sacrifice is too great for him to make for the good of the school, and every Sab- bath finds him in his accustomed place, attending to the duties devolving upon him therein. He has held the office of Superintendent some time, as well as filled the position of teacher and leader of music. In music, Mr. T., although disclaiming any proticieiicy in the science, is required to assist in and superintend all concerts and musical entertainments in the place.

The benevolent orders claim a good share of his attention, he holding membership and filling important offices in Masonic, Odd Fellows and United Workmen lodges of Tennessee. Xo good -work but what meets with his hearty co-operation.

Although a young man, he has seen considerable of this world. In 1856 a party of young men in Adams county made their prepation to go to California, and passing by and dining where Mr. T. was boarding, he agreed to accompau}' them to (^uinc}^ and see them off. While in that city he suddenly made up his mind to be one of the party, and going to the bank, drew out Lis deposits,, and in the evening was on the way, going by way of Chicago to Xew York by rail, and there taking a vessel by way of Aspinwall and Panama, crossing the Isthmus and thence by steamer to San Francisco. He only remained some three or four months in that Eklorado, when he sailed for home, returning by way of Xicaragua, where the fillibuster Walker was then engaged in fighting. The cholera broke out on board the vessel on which he returned, and with others he had a severe attack, but fortunately recovered.

Mr. Thompson is about five feet eight inches in height, light, wavy hair, which with his beard, is very thick ; blue eyes, and a well developed head, the benevolent faculty being very prominent. He is kind and aftectionate in the family, a pleasant neighbor and an agreeable man in every respect.

Elder J. L. Towxer

John L. Towner was born in Steuben county, Xew York, August 20, 1820, and was the eldest of eight children, four of whom were boys and four girls. His parents were John K. and Hannah (Loop) Towner, the father a native of New York and his mother of Pennsylvania. His father was a man of marked character, having occupied many positions of honor and trust, bestowed upon him by his fellow citizens ; he was likewise a true Christian man, and for the advancement of the cause of Christ he gave his time and means. His mother was a woman of remarkable mind, having an extensive knowledge of the Scriptures, and her wise counsels, and the purity of her life, had much to do in mouldingthe character and mind of her son. In 1835 the parents removed to this State, settling near the town of Belvidere, Boone county^ of which county they have the honor of being the first white settlers. Indians were then all around there, and were frequent visitors to their cabin. At tliis time John L. was but a lad of fifteeu years of age. After erecting his cabin the elder Towner sent John with a team to Chicago to bring their household goods which had been shipped by lake to that place. The present mighty city was then but a small village of about 1500 inhabitants ; to-day, it numbers more than a half million.

All the advantages in the way of education that could be enjoyed by those dwelling in this new country were given the subject of this sketch. He had the benefit of the common schools in his native county, and of the Academy erected at Belvidere at an earl}" day.

In 1843, under the ministration of Elder William Roberts, he made confession of his sins, and was baptized into Christ, by that man of God, some three years after. Having given the subject much thought, he determined upon entering the work of the ministry, giving his time and whatever talents the Lord may have given him for the advancement of his cause. In order that he might specially prepare himself for that purpose, be entered the Divinity School, Meadville, Pennsjdvania, where he remained eighteen months. In 1841) he entered upon the regular work, having been set apart for that purpose, since which time he has devoted his entire time to the proclamation of glad tidings. His Avork has been prosperous to a great degree, and his labors have extended over a large territory, having received calls and served as pastor of churches in the towns of Belvidere, Piano and Industry, and the counties of Kendall and Stephenson, Illinois, Greene county, AVisconsin, Grant county, Indiana. In Industry, where he now resides, he has labored faithfully for nine years, to the satisfaction of the members of his own church and the community in general.

Elder Towner is a hard-working, zealous, Christian man - one who enjoys the respect and confidence of every one knowing him; his Christian integrity is doubted by none. As a preacher, he is plain, practical and earnest; he talks like one who believes what he speaks, and therefore carries conviction to the hearts of his hearers. In all that he says or does it can well be believed that he is conscientious. In tilling his appointments he allows no ; triiies to interfere with his attendance. As an illustration of this - we will state that on one occasion, while going with his wife to an appointment, he found a stream which he had to cross greatly swollen by the rain, so much so that a less zealous person would have turned back before attempting to ford it, and waited until the waters subsided. But he determined to make the attempt, and in doing so, his horse and buggy had to swim ; but they reached the other side in safety, with no damage save the wetting of their persons, wearing apparel and books. Another time he was not quite so fortunate, for in attempting to cross a stream from which the bridge had been carried away, and which was running very fast, his horse was borne down by the switt current and was lost. Mr. Towner, with great difhculty, reached the shore, the stream having in it running ice, and the water being so cold, that when he did make the land he was so chilled that he could scarcely reach a house which was a half mile distant. The horse was valued at one hundred and fifty dollars, which was a total loss, save thirty dollars made up by friends where he had gone to preach.

Elder Towner was united in marriage with Miss Keziah Brownell, on the tenth of February, 1850. Two children have blessed their union, a son and daughter, the former now a young man of considerable talent that will doubtless be used to a good purpose. In the family circle, Mr. Towner is kind, pleasant and agreeable; receiving the love and aft'ection of his children.

Roswell Tyrrell

When visiting the western part of the county in search of ma-j terialfor the History of McDonough county, nearly every perso we met inquired of us if we did not intend to give a sketch of the life of Uncle Roswell Tyrrell, as all familiarly called him. We replied that it' would give us pleasure to give such a sketch shouldJ we be furnished with the material incidents of his life by those' who were intimately acquainted with him. Many times had wea; heard old settlers mention this good man, and we thought it was"' due his memory that he should have a place among the records given of the old pioneers and prominent men of the county.

Roswell Tyrrell was the son of Abijah and Naomi Tyrrell, and was born near Hartford, Connecticut, on the twenty-third day of May, 1798. In early life he shadowed forth the peculiar traits of

'character that made him noted in after years. He was ahvavs a tquiet, steady lad, attending closely to his duties on the farm and in the common school pursuing his studies with zeal.

Every school boy or girl has read of the second war with Great Britain, the beginning of which was in 1812, when Roswell was but fourteen years of age, entirely too young to enlist. The war icontinuing, two years thereafter, when but sixteen years of age, Ihe enrolled himself in the army and served until the close of 'the war the year following, when lie received his discharge. "What iepecial service may have been performed by the regiment in which Hie enlisted, we are not advised, but we do know that young Rosiwell Tyrrell never would have shirked duty, and if called upon to [face the foe upon the battle Held he never would have flinched.

On receiving his discharge, he returned to Trumbull county, Ohio, to which place had emigrated when about fourteen years of age, and where he remained until the spring of 1819, when, there jbeing some difficulty with respect to his discharge papers, he -went on foot to AVashington, D. C.,to have the mistake corrected. lAfter having the matter attended to, he started on foot west, inijtending to settle in the State of Illinois. He arrived in Madison leounty in the fall, remaining there some four years, when he reinoved to Fulton county, where, on the twenty-second day of iFebruary, 1823, near the town of Lewistown, he was married to [Miss Mary Ann Sidwell, with whom- he lived happily until death icalled her away, which sad event occurred in May, 1828. She .died in the full assurance of hope, leaving one daughter for him jto rear and provide.

Mr. Tyrrell received as a pension from the United States government, for service in the war of 1812, a land warrant for lone hundred and sixty acres of land, which warrant he sold, land with the proceeds, in 1826, purchased a quarter on section 29, 5 north, 4 west, now Tennessee township, which quarter he held nntil his death. In the fall of 1830, he came over from Fulton county, erected his cabin, and returned for his family. While gone, "the big snow," of which so much is said by pld settlers, fell, necessitating his remaining away until the folowing spring, when he came back and effected a permanent set- :lement.

On the eighth da}' of July he was again married, leading to :he marriage altar Miss Hannah Ann Brooks. One daughter was born unto them. The second Mrs. Tvrrell died in 1852.

About the year 1834 Mr. Tyrrell became bondsman for one of the officers of McDonough county who, unfortunately, failed to make full returns due the county, and Mr. T. was called upon to make good the deticiency. This was an entirely unlooked for <ivent, and came very heavily upon him, but he determined that everv dollar should be paid. Few to-dav can realize the trouble had in obtaining money in those days. Men with thousands of acres -of Jand, with an abundance of po'sonal property, could scarcely raise money to pay their taxes, small as they then were. But Mr. Tyrrell proposed to pay this indebtedness, though it was frequently suofcrested to him that its pavment could be avoided. The verv idea of repudiation was horror to him, and he has often said that for a moment was he tempted to do such a thing. As the money could not be raised here by any means that could be resorted to, Mr. Tyrrell determined on once more going to the lead mines, and, as a day laborer, work to obtain the money to make good his bond. Although the amount he was required to pay would not seem very large to us at the present day, yet it required eleven years to make the final payment, but every dollar was paid, and McDonough county was saved from loss.

The discovery of gold in California caused a tremor of excitement throughout the whole country and thousands fiocked to the Xew Eldorado. Among the first to seek his fortune in that strange land, was the subject of our present sketch. In April, 1840, in company with several others, he started on the overland journey, arriving at his destination in about seven months from the time of starting. The hardships of that journey he bore remarkably well, and in good health and spirits he began to labor in the mines, continuino; in the work for three vears, save about three months when he was unable to do anything on account of sore eyes. He returned home in 1852, having in a measure, been quite successful, more so than the great majority that went out with him.

Mr. Tyrrell was never a member of the Church, though in life he was a strictly moral man. The second great commandment^ to " love thy neighbor as thyself," he carried out to the letter. When James Fulkerson settled in his neighborhood, in 1832, Mr. Tyrrell was in the habit of attending to any little chores around the house that might seem necessary on the Sabbath day, such as cutting wood, sharpening his tools, etc., but as he saw that Mr- Fulkerson did not approve of the same, he resolved to discontinue the ]»ractice, saying, " My grief, it don't hurt me to cut wood, but it hurts Uncle Jimmy's feelings, so I ^von"t do it." And lie was ever afterwards as good as his word, and " Uncle Jimmy's" feelings were never hurt b\- his Sabbath breaking. His honest}' was proverbial wherever he was known, and when another person was specially commended for this trait of character, it was said of him that " he is as honest as Uncle Koswell Tyrrell," or "Uncle Roswell Tyrrell couldn't do better than that." Another excellent trait in him was that he ever kept his promise to the very letter. one occasion he left his two little girls at home while he went to Macomb on some business. "While there he was so unfortunate as to be taken as a juryman. When night came he told the judge he must return home. The judge replied that he could not excuse him. "But," he said, " I must go; I promised my little girls that I would be at home to-night, and I never break my promise to them." And home he went, trudging his way along on foot, spending the night with his little ones, and returning to town the next morning before court was called. The judge thought such a desire to keep inviolate a promise made to the little ones was to be commended rather than reproved, and therefore did not fine him for contempt.

Until the formation of the Republican part}', in 1854, Mr. Tyrrell had always been a Democrat, but not approving the jiosition the Democratic party on the slavery question, he refused longer to act with it. He had always been a strong, anti-slavery man, and in 1824, when the effort was being made to convert Illinois into a slave state, he voted against calling a convention to amend the constitution for that purpose. When the Republican party came into existence he found the principles enunciated by its leaders were in accordance with those he had long held, and therefore acted with it until he was called away. No stronger Republican ever lived than he, and in his death that party lost one of its most earnest advocates. He was well posted in all the questions at issue between the two great parties, spending the greater portion of the last twenty years of his life in reading and posting upon the political questions of the day. During the dark days of the war he was intensely loyal, and although too old to enter the service of his country, as he did forty-seven years previous, his heart was with the "boys in blue" upon the tented field, and many acts of kindness did he perform for the dear ones they left behind. Xo wife, sister, or mother of a soldier would be allowed to suffer if in his power to minister relief, and uumbcrlci-s little

No man ever stood higher in the community than he, and even his most bitter political enemies never doubted his honesty. However much they might doubt the truth of a political statement, they would invariably remark, "Well, he is honest in what he says." We never heard of but one instance in which his word was ever doubted. A stranger, with whom he was conversing, charged him indirectly with falsifying, when he quietly responded, as if his feelings were hurt greatly, "Mister, you don't know me, or you wouldn't saj^ that." It was his pride to make his word respected by every one, and none knowing the man ever doubted his sincerity,

He had a heart overflowing with love of humanity, and to the poor he was ever kind and considerate. The cabin which he erected in 1830, it is said, was the first home of nearly every family in the Hillsgrove settlement, and not a cent of rent was he ever known to receive for its use. If the family was poor, or in need of any of the necessaries of life. Uncle Roswell was ever ready to supply their wants. A sack of flour or meal, a ham of meat, or whatever might be the object of their need, was dropped quietly at their door, and not a word spoken. If he should be so fortunate as to secure some choice venison, he was ever ready to divide with his less fortunate neighbors. Such being the character of the man it certainly is no wonder his memory is held in grateful remembrance by hundreds of the old citizens of the county.-

Roswell Tyrrell departed this life on the thirteenth day of April, 1872, being at the time 72 years 11 months, and 20 days old. He left but one daughter (Mrs. A. G. Owen) to mourn his loss, but her grief was shared by friends and neighbors, and the citizens of the county in general, and probably no man's death was more greatly regretted than Roswell Tyrrell, the old pioneer.

Captain J. B. Venard

Josephus B. Yenard may almost be said to be a native of this county, being carried here by his parents, George and Frances (Mitchell) Veuard, when but six weeks old. His parents were both natives of Kentucky, and emigrated to this county in 1832, here living until called away by death, save a short time spent in Hancock county. Mr. and Mrs. A'enard were well known and highly respected by a large number of people, both in this and

Josephus B. Venard was born in Morgan county, Jllinois, March 3, 1832, and has spent almost his entire life upon a farm, the exception being nearly live years spent in the military service of the government, and two years while serving as Sheriff of McDonough county. He only spent a iew weeks of his life in the public schools of the county; his father, who was a good scholar for his time, imparting instructions to him at home. It was the custom of the elder Venard to gather his children around him in the evening, after the toils of the day were over, and teach them as much as possible betw^een the short time interveninsr between supper and the hour for retiring.

From the time Joseph was nine years of age he w^as compelled to do his share of the labors of the farm, having to follow the plow, and engage in such other exercises as his strength would permit.

When the war broke out and the call was issued by the President for three hundred thousand men, he enlisted on the second day of August, 1861, as a private in Captain J. D. Walker's company. Second Illinois Cavalry, and in about thirt}^ days thereafter, the Second Lieutenant resigning, he was chosen by the men and commissioned to fill the vacancy. This position he retained a few months, when, on the seventeenth day of January, 1862, he was commissioned First Lieutenant. While still holding a commission as Lieutenant of company H he w^as assigned to command company A during the Red Eiver compaign, and discharged the duties to the entire satisfaction of his superior officers. On the twentieth day of July, 1864, he was commissioned Captain of company II, and served as such until it was consolidated with one or [two other companies and lettered E, when he was placed in command and served with it until mustered out on the third day of January, 1866. In many respects the cavalry arm of the military service is the most dangerous, being more exposed on detached iservice, and therefore is entitled to great credit, and the Second Illinois Cavalry deserves the thanks of the whole country-, for no regiment in the entire service acquitted itself more honorably than it. It w^as in active duty from the day it w^as mustered into the service until the close of the war. Captain A'enard served

Receiving a furlough, Captain Venard came home earl j in 1865, and on the fourteenth day of March, was united in the holy bonds of matrimony, to Miss Mary E. Curtiss, by whom he has had live children, all of whom yet live to bless the hearts of their parents.

Without solicitation on his part, Captain Venard received, the nomination for the office of Sheriff in. 1874, and was triumphantly elected, receiving a majority over both his political opponents, and on account of personal popularity, carrying Sciota township by thirty-tive majority, being the first and only Republican that has ever done so. He also carried Bethel township, another strong Democratic precinct, being the one in which he was raised, and where he was well known by every citizen. As a civil officer he brought to bear the same unswerving zeal that characterized him as an army officer. While of a modest and retiring disposition, he never shirks responsibility, and every duty is discharged faithfully and conscientiously.

8ome time in the year 1874, he made a profession of religion, and on his removal to Macomb, in the fall of that year, he united with the Presbyterian Church, and is a faithful member thereof. We trust he may be as«earnest a worker in the Christian cause as in any other service in which he has engaged, and so receive the reward in the end.

As a citizen, he stands high in the community in which he lives or has ever resided, being a good neighbor, and a kind hearted, benevolent man, one who would be received well and trusted implicitly by stranger or friend.

Among the. representative men of McDonOugh county, few stand higher in the estimation of the people, or those who were intimately acquainted with him, than did he of whom we now write. David Perkins Wells was born in AVinchester, Tennessee, on the tenth day of October, 1820. His parents were Ranseallar and Esther (Perkins) Wells, the former being born in Connecticut and the latter a Pennsylvanian, who had emigrated to Tennessee at an earlv dav. In 1833, when David P. was about seven years of age, they again emigrated, this time to Illinois, settling in Rushville, Schuyler county. Here the subject of this sketch spent his youth in attendance on the common schools, and in clerking in one of the principal mercantile stores of the town. After spending ten years in this place, he received an invitation from an uncle, who occupied the position of sutler at Fort Moultrie, South Carolina, to come and assist him in his work. He at once proceeded to that station, and continued there until the breaking out of the Mexican war, when he received the appointment of Aid to Colonel Gates, ot the Third Artillery, with the rank of First Lieutenant, He proceeded with the regiment to ^Mexico, and served with distinction during the entire cam})aign, participating in some of the most important engagements of the war. At its close he returned to llushville, where he remained but a short time, coming from thence to this county, taking up his residence at Macomb, at which place he resided until the day of his death.

In Macomb, Lieutenant Wells engaged in various kinds of business, first in the general mercantile trade in the firm of Twyman, Lawson & Wells, and then in the real estate and insurance business as a member of the firm of J. IL Baker & Co. In 1854, in company with John D. Hail and Iverson L. Twyman, he laid out the town of Bushnell, now one of the most flourishing young cities in the military tract.

On the third day of October, 1850, in Hushville, Illinois, he was united in marriage to Miss Susan Eliza Dean, by whom lie had five children, two only of whom are now living - Charles D., who is now one of the leading commission merchants of the city of Peoria, Illinois, and Harry, who yet remains at home in Macomb, with his widowed mother.

In early lite, and during the existence of the party, Lieut. Wells was a consistent Whig, and on its death, he first voted with the Republicans, but in the celebrated campaign of 18(50, he affiliated with the Douglas wing of the Democratic party, he being a great admirer of that immortal statesman Stephen A. Douglas. But with that great leader, when the dark war clouds broke over the country, when the roar of rebel cannon was heard, he believed there could be but two parties, patriots and traitors, and there not being a single drop ot disloyal blood in his veins, he at once stepped forth on the call of the President and offered his services to the government. In companj'- with the lamented Broaddus, he raised company B of the 16th Kegiment, Illinois Volunteers, and was duly commissioned as captain. His early military training now served him in good stead, and he was at once acknowledged the best disciplinarian and soldier in the entire regiment. Although s*^rict in discipline, he received the good will and love of every man in his company, and the unqualified respect of his brother officers. Xot one of his men but would have defended him to the erd. Where he led, none would have refused to follow. Unfortunately Captain Wells did not see as much service in the field as he desired, and never had an opportunity to distinguish himself as he doubtless would have done.

The regiment being among the first to enter the service, was put upon detached duty, guarding the Hannibal and St. Joe Kailroad, etc. While upon this road Captain Wells received wounds that no doubt were the ultimate cause of his death. In travelins: between different points on the road the train was wrecked by obstructions placed upon the track, and Captain A\^ells thrown out and some heavy article was thrown across his breast, causing bleeding at the lungs. He lay insensible for several hours, and although he recovered sufficiently to join the regiment and start with them to the front, he was only enabled to reach Cairo. Here the surgeon of the regiment ordered him home, informing hira that he could never recover unless he had rest. In company with a private of his company the captain returned, stopping in St. Louis long enough to attend to some business and purchase for his family a few presents. He arrived at home on the third day of April, 1862, in quite feeble health, but without a thought of soon being called away, thinking that in a few days he should be sufficiently recovered to return to his regiment and take part in the active duties of the war. But it w^as willed otherwise by One mightier than all others. He began to sink slowly, but still on the third day of his return was able to walk from one room to another, but on the fourth day the dread summons came, and his soul returned to the God who gave it, and in due time his body was laid away in the cold and silent tomb. His death was entirely unexpected by his friends, although they were made aware he could not long survive. His funeral sermon was preached by Kev. Joseph Warren, D. D., and his body was placed in the grave by his Masonic brethren, of which order he had for some years been an active member. Many friends followed the remains to the grave, and mingled their tears with that of the grief-stricken widow and fatherless children.

before the famous emancipation proclamation of Abraham Lincoln was issued, and even before the celebrated order of General Fremont was promulgated, he stated his belief that the rebellion would never be put down until the slave was made free.

Captain Wells was not a professed Christian, had never attached himself to any church, but believed in the religion of the Bible, and was a strictly moral man. His views of Christianity were more in accordance with those of the Episcopalian Church than any other, and had there been an organization of that denomination in the vicinity of his home he would doubtless have united with it. He was a man of kind heart, and in the family circle was very indulgent, j-et always iirm. His word was recognized as law by his children, and while he was gentleness in the [extreme, they knew his word was not to be trifled with. His loss was deeply felt by the whole community in which he lived.

Johx G. Woodside

Another of the old pioneers of Blandiusville, well known duriing the first quarter century ot our county's history, was John G. Woodside, the son of James and Mary (Gallaher) AVoodside, who was born in Washington county, Virginia, on the ninth day of November, 1798, and emigrated to this county in 1833. His parents at his birth were in very moderate circumstances, but gave their son all the advantages their means would allow. At an early age he learned the glovemaking trade, and also many years followed the trade of shoemaker, even after coming to this State- In looking over some of his old books and papers were found accounts against many of the early settlers of this county for work done ; charges were made for making children's shoes, twelve and a half cents per pair, and men's shoes thirty-seven and a half cents per pair. Think of this, you that complain of low prices of the present day.

Before reaching his majority, Mr. Woodside was married to Miss Jane Woodside, by whom he had eight children, four boys and four girls ; three of the former and two of the latter now living.

Mr. Woodside had the honor of being one of the best educated men in the county when he first came to it, and for several terms taught a select school. In chapter thirty-two will be found an article of agreement between himself and patrons to teach school for the term of six months. The agreement is worth reading.

Mr. Woodside held many of the township and county offices, among which were Justice of the Peace, County Commissioner, etc. He was likewise Postmaster of the old Muddy Lane postoffice, which has long since been forgotten except by a few of the older settlers of the county. He was a man that enjoyed the respect and confidence of his friends and associates. Mr. AYoodside died on on the eighteenth day of March, 1853, his loss being deeply felt by the citizens of the county.

Of this family now living, the oldest daughter resides in Jasper county, Iowa ; the other in Henderson count}^, Illinois. Of the sons, Hugh G. lives in Henderson county, Illinois, James A. and William L. are farmers in Blandinsville township, the latter residing on the old homestead on which his father settled on removing to this county.

Joseph E. Wyne

Kentucky has furnished many prominent citizens of this county, and among the best we regard Joseph E. Wyue, who, in company with Joseph McCrosky, another old pioneer, who departed this life a few years since, came to this county in 1834, since which time he has been an honored citizen. He was born in Columbia, Adair county, February 12, 1820. His parents were B. F. and Mary A. (Doyle) Wyne, the former a native of 'Rew Jersey, and the latter of Ireland, but both having emigrated to Kentucky where they formed each other's acquaintance and were married in the town of Winchester. They were poor in this world's goods, and therefore could not give their children such advantages as they desired; Joseph E. being only permitted to attend the common subscription schools of his native State, which was all the means of education that he enjoyed ; but natural good sense and a determined will have, in a measure, overcome every deficiency in this respect.

When about fifteen years of age his father died with cholera in Springfield, Kentucky, and his mother dying shortly after, left him without natural protection. He then went to live with Joseph McCrosky, and as previously stated, came with him to this county, and settled on Camp Creek, south of Macomb, where he remained for some four years, when, coming to town, he engaged as clerk for N. P. Tinsley, Esq., continuing- for some five years;, when, in company with C. A. Lawson, Esq., he engaged in the mercantile trade for himself. In this trade he continued until about the year 1861, when he received the appointment from Abraham Lincohi as postmaster of Macomb, which position he retained until, by accident, Andrew Johnson was made president, when Mr. Wyne's official head was removed - not for any wrong doing on his part or complaints made by the patrons of the office, but in consequence of his failure to approve and cheer the policy of the head of the nation.

Mr. "Wyne has always been a man of public spirit, and we find him constantly lilliiig some local office, being willing to sacrifice time and the comforts of life for the public good. Eefore the organization of Macomb as a city, he was for several years a member of the town Board of Trustees, and when the change took place he was among the first aldermen elected from his ward, and has since been re-elected several times. He has also been Mayor of the city, Police Magistrate, and for years been a member of the School Board. In the latter office he has devoted much time, always taking great interest in the educational afiairs of the city, and the good reputation of our public schools are in a great measure due to him. Although the office is a thankless one, he labors in the discharge of his duties with just as much zeal as though great pecuniary benefit was derived from it.

As a politician, Mr. AVyne first gave adhesion to the old AVhig party, and as a follower of Henry Clay, advocated the principles enunciated by the immortal statesman. During the last fight the Whiffs ever made in this countv, he was their nominee for the office of County Clerk, but was defeated by Isaac Grantham, Democrat. On the organization of the Republican party he espoused its principles and has ever since been a faithful supporter of its men and measures. In its first campaign he received the nomination for -Circuit Clerk, of the connty, but, of course was defeated, the opposition to the Democracy being divided between Eepublicans and Americans, We believe it is due to Mr. "Wyne that he shall yet be honored by his political associates. Xo man has been more faithful, none have been willing to sacrifice more than he for the good of the party. He is honest and capable and will give satisfaction in any position to which he may be called-

Mr. Wyne has been twice married, first with Miss Mary A. Walker, daughter of Joseph M., and Maria W. Walker, in June, 1842. Mrs. W. only lived a few months after her marriage, departing this life in March, 1843. His next marriage was in June,

1845, with Miss Clarinda Hays, daughter of Dr. Chas. Hays, an early settler and successful physician of Macomb. Ten children have been born unto them, eight yet remaining upon this side, six sons and two daughters, two having been called to the upper and better world on high. Under the ministration of Rev. W. K. Stewart, who for sixteen years broke the bread of life to the Presbyterian congregation in Macomb, Mr. Wyne made a profession of religion in 1839, and united with that body, during all the intervening time to the present he has held connection with it, for nearly thirty years serving as ruling elder and for many years as clerk of its session. He is an earnest and devoted Christian man, using the talents the Lord has given him for the promotion of his cause. In the Sunday School he has been likewise a faithful laborer ever taking an active part in its work. May he continue to do his duty and receive the crown in the end.

Mr. Wyne is a slimly built man about five feet nine inches in height, of good address, pleasant manners, and one who enjoys the respects of all.

John Aviley

The parents of John Wiley - William and Betsy (Vance) Wiley - were both natives of Pennslvania, and had emigrated to Harrison county, Ohio, about the beginning of the present century, settling upon a farm, on which they continued to reside until death called them away. The farm yet remains in the family, three of the members yet living upon it. One son who had remained there from his birth, died about the year 1875.

John Wiley, the subject of this sketch, was born upon the farm spoken of on the tenth day of November, 1810, and lived thereon with his parents until he reached his majority, when he rented a piece of land and began to farm for himself, continuing in that business for three years. The two following years he engaged in no special calling, save for three seasons running a threshing machine. He then concluded to learn a trade, and for that purpose went to Martinsville, Ohio, where he engaged with his brother Thomas in the manufacture of threshing machines, becoming quite proficient as a machinist. This brother was well known in McDonough county, having engaged in like business here, and also having established the first foundry here.

the same machines. From Kipley he came to this county, bringing with him twelve of the threshing machines manufactured by his brother, of whom we have previously spoken. These were the first machines of the kind ever imported into the county, and were viewed with considerable wonder and curiosity.

Mr, AViley arrived in Macomb, in this county, the early part of the winter of 1841, remaining here until the thrilling news was sent out that gold, in large quantities, had been discovered in California, the great Eldorado of the West. In company with about thirty others from this county, he left Macomb on the second day of March, 1849, for the " diggings." This was the fiirst company from the county. The train, after a long and tedious journey, arrived in the mines on the third day of August following. Mr. AViley at once began to mine along the American and Trinity rivers, remaining there for about two years, meeting with good success. About this time he was called home on business, intending, however, to return to the Pacific slope, but this he never did.

Having made the journey to California overland with an ox team, he concluded he would return by water, and therefore sailed from San Francisco in the ship Louisa, in January, 1857. While on the Pacific ocean their vessel was caught in a severe storm, which lasted about thirty-six hours, and cleared the ship of all her masts, and came near sending her, with her human cargo, to the bottom of the great ocean. In consequence of the damage done the ship he was considerably delayed on the voyage, and Compelled to take passage on another vessel. Thinking he would probably never have a better opportunity, he stopped for awhile in Mexico and Central America, viewing the sights and scenes of those tropical countries, arriving in !N^ew Orleans in the following March, from which place he came up the Mississippi river, in due time arriving at his home in old McDonough.

Soon after his return home from California, in company with Joseph Bailey, a son of the late Colonel W. W. Bailey, Mr. Wiley went into the grocery business, continuing in that line of trade some two years. In 1853, while still engaged in the mercantile trade, he purchased the farm upon which he now resides, for which he paid eleven hundred dollars. It contains three hundred and twenty acres, and is now considered one of the finest and best improved farms in McDonough county. When Mr. AViley became the purchaser, it was raw, unbroken, prairie land. It lies four miles east of the city of Macomb, in ]Macomb township. The well known Wiley School House, district number 8, stands upon the northeast corner of his farm.

In 1842, the year after his first arrival in Macomb, Mr. "Wiley formed a partnership with Charles W. Dallam for the purpose of manufacturing threshing machines, reapers, portable saw mills, etc. The firm continued in business some years and gained a wide reputation, especially for threshing machines, a large number of which were made and sold throughout the State. Mr. Wiley not only has the honor of importing the first into the county, but has the honor to be the first to engage in their manufacture. Previous to this, all grain was threshed and w^innowed in the primitive way.

Mr. W^iley is rather above medium height, of good proportion, and evidently in his younger days was quite robust and muscular. His hair is now quite gray, and his beard, which is likewise of the same color, is worn in full. In temperament he is very quiet and unexcitable, allowing nothing to ruffle him in any way. As a man and a citizen he is highly esteemed by every one having the opportunity to know him. In public aifairs, although taking no prominent part, he manages to keep posted in all that is being done in the various fields of science, politics and the general news of the da3% He has never made a profession of religion, but endeavors in all his intercourse with his fellow men to live up to the golden rule, "Do unto others as you w6uld others should do unto you."

Isaac Weaver

One of the oldest and most respected citizens of Prairie City is Isaac Weaver, who was born in Greene county, Pennsylvania, July 13, 1819. His parents, William and Polly (Cromwell) W^eaver, were both natives of the same State. His father w^as born February, 1791, and still lives upon the farm to which he removed in 1835, having purchased it of the widow and heirs of Robert Reeve, one of whom afterwards became the wife of the subject of this sketch. This farm is understood to be the oldest one in the northwestern part of Fulton county, and was first improved by Mr. Reeve, wdio with his family came to this State in 1824, and built the first cabin on the land mentioned the following February. He had previously traded his farm in the State of New York for this land, with the intention of coming to this new country, hoping to better the condition of his family : but he was only permitted to live a sliort time, iu consequence of Avhich the hardships of the family were very great. Having previously associated with and formed the habits of the more cultivated and wealthy people of the Eastern States, it was difiicijlt for them to accommodate themselves to the association of pioneers, and to make their living by means known only to that class, sometimes being compelled to grind the corn for their bread by pounding it in a wooden mortar, and tc manufacture a part of their clothing out of the bark or lint of wild nettles and buckskin purchased of the Indians ; and being driven from their home by the Indians, and fleeing to the fort for protection.

The mother of Mr. Weaver, as well as the mother of his wife, Mary Adams Reeve, together with their deceased children, all lie buried upon the old farm.

During the boyhood days of Mr, Weaver the opportunities for , obtaining an education were limited where his parents resided, and on removing to a new and thinly settled country, and having to improve a new farm at the time he should have been in school, it could not be expected he should obtain a very extensive knowledge of books ; but such was his desire to learn, that even after his marriage he attended school for a short time in Fulton county. The knowledge acquired iu school has served but as a basis for more extensive private research, in which he has acquired much information iu the arts and sciences of the day.

Mr, Weaver for many years of his life lived upon a farm, but in 1857 he came to this countv and made his home in the new and flourishing town of Prairie City. Here he engaged in the produce and grain trade, and in company with Ezra Cadwallader and Milton Foster he built the first grain elevator in the place. In this business he continued with varying success for some fifteen years, when, through partnership associations, he met with great losses, which caused his retirement.

In 1865, he was elected to the office of Justice of the Peace which office he yet retains, being re-elected at every recurring election. This shows that the people of his town repose confidence in him. He has also held the oflice of Town Trustee, Supervisor, Assessor, Commissioner, and other town offices, frequently holding more than one at the same time. He also holds the office of Xotary Public. In politics he is republican, working at all times for the success of its principles.

On the thirteenth day of November, 1838, Mr. Weaver was united in marriage to Miss Harriet C. Reeve, daughter of Mary and Robert Reeve. Eight children have been born unto them, four of whom have finished life's journey and taken up their abode in the "Sweet bye-aud-bye." Four yet live to bless the hearts of their parents, only one of whom lives at home, three of the number having married and now occupy homes of their own. Two live in Fulton county, and one in the State of Iowa, VE

In religious views, Mr. Weaver inclines to favor those held by the Society of Friends, though never uniting formally with that body, nor has he ever heard a sermon or attended one of their services. When but a small boy, he read the life of William Penu, which made a very favorable and lasting impression upon his mind. The views therein set forth, as held by Penn, he has always thought to be more in accord with the teachings of the New Testament than those held or taught by other sects. Taking the Bible as his creed, he is content to abide by its teachings as a rule of life.

Dr. Beverly R. Westfall

One of the most prominent physicians in McDonough county is the subject of our present sketch. Dr. Beverly R. Westfall, who emigrated to the county in 1816, and, save for one year, has since been a continual resident of it.

Dr. Westfall was born in Troy, Ohio, on the eleventh day of August, 1854. His parents were Cornelius and Sarah (Davis) Westfall, the former being a native of Virginia and the latter of JS'ew Jersey, both highly respected and intelligent persons, for many j'ears citizens of the county. Cornelius Westfall, the father, died on his farm near what is known as Wolf Grove, about four miles northeast of Macomb. The mother also died on the same farm, beloved by all who knew her. The first seven years of the doctor's life was spent in his native town, at the expiration of which time he was taken by his parents to Thorntown, Indiana, which place remained his home until his removal to Illinois, in the year above mentioned. In Thorntown he was sent to the public schools, and from thence to the old Thorntown Seminary, at which institution he not only mastered the branches of a common English education, but took a regular course in Latin and Greek. In this place he also entered the office and read medicine with Dr. J. J. !Nesbitt, one of the best physicians in the place.

In 1846, Dr. Westfall came to Macomb, arriving here in June of that year, a stranger in a strange place, and with but a five dollar gold piece as the extent of his capital, half of which he expended immediately for a pair ot shoes, leaving but two dollars and fifty cents with which to begin the world. Securing a school in Macomb, he continued to teach one year, at the expiration of which time believing it "not good for man to be alone," he was united in marriage to Miss Ellen Hays, daughter of Dr. Charles Hays, one of the old pioneer citizens and a leading physician of the county. With this estimable lady he yet happily lives. Fifteen children have blessed their union, nine sons and six daughters, all of whom yet live, save the oldest son and youngest daughter, who have passed on before, and upon the other side await the re-union which will take place by-and-bye.

While euffas:ed in teachino; in Macomb, the doctor still continued to pursue his studies in medicine, and on his marriage returned to his old home in Thorntown, Indiana, where he engaged in practice for about one year, at the end of which time he returned to Macomb, and, as previously remarked, has made it his home ever since. Upon his return he at once engaged in his chosen profession, and for seven years, or until 1855, continued to .practice medicine as an old school physician, in the meantime attending a course of lectures at Rush Medical College, Chicago, an institution then in its infancy, from which he received a certificate of graduation, diplomas not then being given by it.

lu 1855, after having given the subject much thought, and a thorough investigation of the principles governing, the doctor changed his course of treatment, adopting the homeopathic method, which for twenty-two years he has since successfully practiced in this place, securing a practice second to but few in the State, and extending throughout this and adjoining counties. As a physician he has met with remarkably good success, especially since he has adopted the homeopathic method of treatment, and no physician in this part of the State ranks higher in the profession, or among the masses of the people. Having for a number of years practiced as an old school physician, he is recognized by that fraternity as one well posted in the science of medicine. His practice has always been that of a general one, confining him- to no special diseases. In order to perfect himself in the surgery and become more thoroughly posted in the great improvements being made in the medical world, in 1867 he attended a course of lectures in Hahneman Medical College, ('hicago, and from that institution received a diploma of Doctor of Medicine. Although this diploma adds nothing to the skill of the doctor, it jet shows that his knowledge was such as to warrant the conferring of this honorary degree upon him by an institution of acknowledged standing.

Dr. Westfall has always taken considerable interest in agricultural matters, and for the past twenty-one years has resided upon a farm, though always retaining an office in Mocomb for the practice of his professson. He now resides upon a farm, two miles southeast of the city, which he keeps under the best cultivation. The house in which he resides, together with the entire surroundings, is in excellent taste, and is greatly admired by all. For the promotion of agricultural and mechanical arts, he has always advocated and worked to sustain a high reputation for our county fairs, believing their success would have a tendency to secure that He has always been a stockholder and for some years one of the directors of the Stock Association.

Realizing the necessity existing for the improvement of our stock, especially the farm horse. Dr. Westfall was the first from the county to engage in the importation of blooded horses from the Old World. In 1870, he crossed the ocean to France, and in that country, secured four as fine animals as were ever imported into the country. In securing these horses, he experienced the good fortune in having them purchased and placed upon the vessel just a day or two before the Emperor ISTapoleon issued his order forbidding any further exportation, and just before the war occurred which occasioned the overthrow of the empire. Again, in 1873, the doctor returned to Europe, securing three more equally as fine and perfect as those first imported. In this we have the beginning of the importation of fine stock from the old world, and an enterprise which has been taken up by others until McDonough county now ranks among the first in the State, with respect to its blooded stock. Not only in horses, but in fine cat-

In school matters, Dr. Wcstfall has also manifested great iuter- -est, and no man stands ready to do more for our public and private schools than he. As an illustration, we will say that by right of purchase the old McDonough College property fell into his hands, and it was earnestly desired by a certain party for residence purposes, but on condition that a school of high grade should be held in the building for ten years, the doctor sold it to Professor D. Branch, for live hundred dollars less than he was offered for it by the other party. Would that others would thus show their faith bv their works.

Dr. Westfall, as a citizen, ranks high in the community in which he has so long lived. He is kind and sympathetic, and enjoys the respect and confidence of all. Every good work he is ready to hek) on in every conceivable way. He has never held public office of any kind, nor ever desired it, and although strong in his political views, which are those held by the Republican party, he is not yet so bigoted but that he concedes the right of others to differ with him, while at the same time he can call them friends. Religiously, the doctor is identified with the Old School Presbyterian Church, having in his infancy received the waters of baptism. Physically, the doctor would not be regarded as robust, yet he doubtless stands as much exposure as any man in the county. He is above medium height, with light hair, auburn beard, worn full, and with light blue eyes. We trust he may yet live to accomplish much good in various ways.

Hon. E. K. Westfall

Elanthan Kemper Westfall, the second son of Cornelius and Sarah (Davis) Westfall, was born in Thorntown, Boone county, Indiana, on the eighth day of January, 1839, and, in company with his parents, came to this county in the spring of 1854, remaining for a few months in the city of Macomb, going from thence to a farm about five miles northeast of the city, where he remained some years, or until the breaking out of the war in 1861. On the first call of the President for troops, he responded, enrolled himself as a private in company "B," Sixteenth Regiment of Illinois Volunteers, commanded by the lamented Captain I). P. Wells. He was mustered into the service as Orderly Sergeant, oa the twenty-fourth day of May. On the first of October following, he was promoted Second Lieutenant, and again promoted First Lieutenant, commission bearing date April 7, 1862. AVhile still an Orderly Sergeant, he received a furlough that he might come home and assist in raising a company of Cavalry for the war, but before it was fully completed, he was ordered to rejoin his regiment. Returning to the seat of war, he fully expected to receive the promised commission in the cavalry company, but for some cause best known to others, the commission never came. On account of ill health. Lieutenant Westfall was compelled to resign on the twentieth of January, 1862. While in the service he discharged his duty faithfully, and had it been his good fortune to continue with his regiment, he doubtless would have distinguished himself and received other meritorious promotions.

Upon his return home, and as soon as his health would permit, Lieutenant Westfall entered the office of his brother. Dr. B. E. Westfall, of Macomb, for the purpose of preparing himself for the medical profession. He continued to pursue his studies with the doctor for some two or three years, and in the winter of 1866- 67 attended a course of lectures in the Hahneman Medical College, Chicago. In the spring of 1867 he opened an office in Bushnell, where he has since continued to reside, having built up a large and lucrative practice, his success equaling his most sanguine expectations. As a physician he has shown rare skill and good judgment in the discernment and treatment of diseases.

Dr. "Westfall is a man of considerable public spirit, and takes great pride in whatever tends to promote the interests of his adopted city and county. He has been honored by his townsmen and fellow citizens quite often since taking up his residence in Bushnell. He has served as a member of the City Council of Bushnell, twice elected member of the Board of Supervisors, and twice a member of the House of Representatives of the Illinois Legislature, first in 1872, and again in 1876. In this latter body he was not what is termed a "brilliant member," but better still a working one, and in the committee room would do service that would be far more beneficial than that of the "windy orator" in the public hall. As a public speaker, he makes no pretensions, but when necessary can speak his sentiments plainly and in unmistaka- V)le language. In the session of 1872-3, he was on the Committees on Railroad and Insurance, Penitentiary, and Fees and Salaries, the latter of which he was Chairman. These committees were all of considerable importance. Daring this session, it will be remembered, the entire list of statutes of the State were revised, and therefore a vast amount of extra work had to be accomplished. - In the session of 1876-77, he was Chairman of the Committee on Public Charities, and member of the committees on Appropriation and Public Printing. The work performed by the honorable gentleman during both sessions of the Legislature arealike creditable to himself and his constituents.

On the organization of the 8th regiment, Illinois militia, in 1876, Dr. Westfall was chosen and duly commissioned its Lieutenant Colonel. The regiment has been uniformed, duly armed and equipped, and in drill would not sufler by comparison with some ot the old regiments of the war. Colonel Westfall has always been in command.

In politics Colonel Westfall has always been a "Republican of the strictest sect of religion," its principles and its aims ever being dear to his heart, and anything that seems to be an abandonment of them meets his most unqualified condemnation. Ilis zeal for the party that sacrified so much blood and treasure for the salvation of the Union is such as to cause him to forget self and give everything for its prosperity. Honoring the party, he has in turn been honored by it in his selection to the responsible public positions which he has held. Being still in the prime of life, by a careful cultivation of the talents which he undoubtedly possesses, a bright future will yet be before him.

Dr. Westfall is rather above medium height, well proportioned, having a good head, and a kind heart, and enjoys the respect and esteem of the community in which he lives. On the fourth day January, 1873, he was united in marriage with Miss Emma Curl, but WAS only permitted to enjoy her society a few months, she departing this life on the twenty-eighth of October following. Mrs. Westfall was a member of the Presbyterian church and died in the full assurance .of faith.

Charles Wilson

AVe acknowledge a feeling of deep reverence and gratitude to the old pioneers, those who have endured the hardships, the toils and privations incidental to frontier life, those who have made the paths straight, the rough places smooth, and made the country to "blossom as the rose." Few men who figure in these pages have endured more and labored harder to accomplish their ends than Charles AVilson, President of the Farmers' Xational Bank, Bushnell, Illinois.

C+iarles "Wilson was born in Chester county, Pennsylvania, on the twentieth day of June, 1813. His parents were William S. and Hester (Ramsey) Wilson, the father being Irish by birth and the mother a Peunsylvanian, though of Scottish descent. The elder Wilson came to this country in 1801, taking up his abode in the city of Philadelphia, where he made the acquaintance ot the lady whom he afterwards wedded, and with whom he journeyed along the pathway of life for more than half a century. He was a sailor by occupation, and sailed the seas for many years, and made many voyages to this country before he determined on " a settlement. He departed this life on the fourth day of May, 1861, fvo-ed eisrhtv-four vears. His widowed companion survived him t^ome fourteen years, and on the twenty-seventh day of November, 1875, she too was called to her reward at the ripe old age of ninety-two. Both were devoted members of tiie Christian Church, and died in the blessed hope of immortality beyond the grave. Many of the strong traits of character and excellent qualities shown in the subject of this sketch were inherited from this Godly couple. I|

As soon as endowed Avith sufficient streuo-th Charles was bound out to work for a neighboring farmer, and until fifteen years of age, the highest wages received by him was three dollars per month, or thirt3'-six dollars per year. This sum was collected by the father and went toward the maintenance of the family.

When but of eight years of age, the parents of Charles removed from Pennsylvania to the State of Virginia, where they remained four years and from whence they removed to Wayne county, Ohio, remaining there six years, when, believing it for the best to proceed fiirther west, where land was plenty and cheap, thev came to Illinois and settled near the town of Lewistown, Fulton county. This was in 1830 - the family arriving in the neighborhood of the town mentioned, on the twenty-eighth day of October, as the cold days of winter was fast approaching. The elder Wilson, with his son Charles, who was now a young man in his eighteenth year, with the strength of one who had reached his majority, commenced to look out a location for their future home.

iJut little information could be obtained from settlers with respect to the titles of the land, and it was with difhculty that a selection could be made. Being unable to secure a house in which to live, the}' built a hut of rails as a temporary abiding place, until they could cut and hew logs for the erection of a more suitable dwelling, which they proposed to have built at once.

As soon as they decided upon what quarter section of land to locate, they proceeded to get out the logs and prepare for the vrectiou of their building. They had hauled upon the ground quite enough ior their purpose, when snow began to fall, and continuing steadily for several days, or until it laid upon the ground an average depth of between three and four feet, and occasionally in drifts as high as eighteen and twenty feet, obliterating every sign of the location of their proposed new dwelling. Xot a log prepared for the purpose could be seen. The family were still in the rail pen - for it could be dignilied by no other name - and tliere they were compelled to remain during the long winter that followed. The snow laid upon the ground for three months. AVhat their sufferings were during that time pen cannot describe, and none but the Great Father can fullv know. The cracks between the rails were all open, there being no way by which they could be closed, and as the snow fell, and for days alter, while being drifted about by the wind, it would blow into the cabin, covering everything with its icy mantle. On awakening in the morning, the family would liiid themselves covered with snow from three to six inches in depth.