McLean County, Illinois - The whole text, 1879 (part 40 of 42)

R. R. CAMPBELL, farm and stock ; P. 0. Covell ; was born Oct. 7, 1826, in Franklin Co., Penn.; remained there until 1849, in which year he was married to E. C. Harvey, a native of Pennsylvania; the first year after marriage, they managed his father's farm, and moved then to Indiana, settling in Clinton Co., on farm, renting of William Parrin for seven years ; he then moved to McLean Co., Ill , settling, in 1846, on the present farm of eighty acres, which he has increased to 240 acres, earned by their own labor; it was then a raw prairie, but now presents the view of a most magnificent farm. Mr. Campbell has not been forgotten by the voters of Dale ; he was Supervisor in 1863-64, and School Director three years. Mr. and Mrs. Campbell do not forget the Sabbath, but take an active part in the Sunday school at Covell Union Church, of which they are members, of Presbyterian denomination. They have four children, viz., Harriet E, J. N., William and E. C.

A. D. BENJAMIN, Jr., farm and stock ; P. 0. Bloomington ; was born Sept. 26, 1852, in Dale Township, McLean Co., on present farm, which was given him by his father, and is the " old homestead," settled by A. D. Benjamin, Sr., now deceased. He came from Hinsdale, Mass., and entered this farm of forty acres, in 1849, which he increased to 314; at his death, it became the children's by will. He married Sarah E. Stiger, a native of Pennsylvania. He was a sailor on the Atlantic from 16 to 22. His son, A. D., was married January, 1875, to Esther E. Darrow, born in Pennsylvania, Schuylkill Co., Aug. 16, 1854; after marriage, they settled on their pres^ ent farm, his father remaining with him until death, which was Sept. 19, 1878. Has one child - Ira, born Dec. 13, 1877. A. C. Benjamin, his brother, was born in 1855, in Dale Township, 111., on same farm; remained until 21, when he began working in a clothing store for Livingston & Co., Bloomington, six months, Heldmon, two months, Goldsmith, four months, worked next for Freeman by month, also for Sutton ; he then began working in a wagon factory for T. H. Smith & Co., of Pekin. Was married Feb. 7, 1878, to Josephine Lovenguth.

JAMES F. BOULWARE, farm and stock; P. 0. Shirley; was born Dec. 23,1818, on farm in Madison Co., Ky. ; was fifth son of John Boulware, born in Virginia about 1788. lie was married to Mary McClain, of Virginia. Mr. Boulware remained in Kentucky, engaged in farming until 1852, when he came to Illinois. In 1851, he was married to Mary Kelly, born in Madison Co., Ky.; in 1852, they made their final settlement in Dale Township, and improved three farms ; first, what is now the Boyd farm ; second, the Lane farm. In 1867, settled on present farm of 160 acres, earned principally by their own labor and management ; they have made this one of the finest farms in the county ; every convenience that could be desired is present Mr. Boulware has held the office of Supervisor of Dale Township ; is now Trustee ; Commissioner, two years. His mother died Feb. 16, 1879 ; she was one of those ambitious women who never ceased to be doing something, and when near 90 and 92 years old, she did some elegant crocheting, making spreads and napkins. Mrs. Boulware, wife of Mr. Boulware, was a graduate of the Richmond, Va., Female Academy; she takes great interest in literature; she writes often for the Democratic News, of Bloomington ; also contributes her own productions to American Christian Review, of Cincinnati, and Christian of St. Louis. She has also on hand many able manuscripts. They have one adopted daughter - Mary R. Mr. and Mrs. Boulware are members of the Christian Church, at Shirley.

HAMILTON BOID, farmer and stock-raiser; P. 0. Shirley ; was born in 1817, in Jefferson Co., Ohio, and remained there »nd in Coshocton Co. until 1855 ; was engaged in farming and running canal-boat, managing shipping wheat, wine and whisky. In 1842, he was married to Margaret Boyd, of same name, but no connection ; she was born in Keen Township, Coshocton Co , Ohio. After marriage, they settled on a farm, which they bought, for two years. In 1855, they came to Illinois by wagon, as was somewhat customary, and settled in Bloomington for some time ; afterward moving to I'azewell Co. In 1858, they settled the present little farm of eightythree acres, which he has made a magnificent little home. He has worked by month, at $10 to $15. Mr. Boyd makes a specialty in breeding fine horses. He has now one fine horse. He has held the offices of School Director and Pathmaster. Have five children - John, Anderson, Mary E., Margaret, Sarah.

J. L. DOUGLASS, grain merchant, of the firm of Funk & Douglass, grain, coal, lumber and salt merchants, Shirley, was born in York Co., Penn., Oct. 9, 1848. In 1868, he came West, looking for work, and first stopped at Chicago. Here he failed to find work, and then went to Bloomington, where he found that, by applying, he could get a place at Shirley as school teacher. He went there at once and accei ted the appointment which was offered him, and from that first step, he has gradually improved his condition in life. He was appointed station agent for the C. & A. R. R., then express agent, and then Postmaster; these offices he has filled for the last nine years. He entered the grain business, with Mr. Funk, in 1876; they handle some 40,000 bushels of grain in a year, and own a first-class el. vator, having a capacity of 12,000 bushels. Mr. Douglass married Miss Nancy Johnston, of Allegheny City, Penn., who is a graduate of the State Normal School, of Millersville, Penn. They have four children - three boys and one girl. Mr. Douglass has held several offices in connection with schools, and is, at present, School Treasurer.

JOHN FREED, farm and stock; P. 0. Covell ; was born Nov. 25, 1815, on a farm in Fayette Co., Penn , and remained there until 45 years old ; was engaged in farming, working for his father until 24, when he began business for himself. Dec. 12, 1839, was married to Fannie hobinson, daughter of James Robinson, a distiller and farmer. After marriage, they settled in Fayette Co., renting of his father five years. He then bought a farm of 140 acres ; remained there until 1861, selling out in 1860. In 1861, they moved to Gridley ; remained eighteen months, farming, renting of the Railroad Company. From there, they came to Towanda, and bought eighty acres of Miller, paying $25 per acre ; some time after, buying eighty acres of Papunaw, making 160 acres. In 1865, he sold the farm to Bone, at $40 per acre, and then moved to his present farm of 180 acres, acquired by their own labors. Has also a house and lot in Bloomington. Their marriage blessed them with nine children, viz., Albert, Ann Eliza, Cyrus (was killed in the war, in Sherman's raid to Atlanta; died in 1864), Henry, George C, James, John, Clark, Smith. He has taken much interest in educating his children. Henry has taught school, in Illinois, five years ; is now in Pennsylvania, in the dry goods business. George is now practicing law at Leavenworth, Kan. ; he has been insurance agent for the California Insurance Company ; afterward took agency for the combined companies, California and Missouri Valley Company ; has also taught school. Albert has taught school, and has been Tax Collector, for seven years, of Dale. Mr. Freed has held offices connected with schools, and Pathmaster. He and wife belong to the Baptist Church of Bloomington.

D. G. FORMAN, farmer and stock-dealer; P. 0. Bloomington; was born in New Jersey Dec. 29, 1834 ; remained there until 25 years old. working for his father, when he began business for himself, working on a farm ; renting of Shougles for one year, and of Olden two years. He then came to Illinois, settling in McLean Co., and working for Bolusteer for one year at $40 per month ; was overseeing his farm. He soon bought a farm of eighty acres in Dale Townehip, which, by careful management, has become a beautiful farm, and has been increased to 325 acres which he has earned entirely by his own labor and management. He was married in

1856, to Sarah Flock, born in New Jersey. They have three children - William, F. and Susie E. Mr. Forman and wife are members of the Baptist Church in Bloomington. He has held offices connected with schools.

JOHN M.. HOLMES, farmer and stock-dealer; P.O. Bloomington; was born in 1806, in Kildare Co., Ireland; remained there until 24 years old ; was a soldier in the Royal Artillery for fourteen years. In 1831, he came to Halifax, and engaged in artillery for six years. From there he moved to Lower Canada, in 1837 ; engaged in soldiering; afterward taking a position in the British Government as soldier for twenty years. On the 1st day of May, 1860, he settled at Decatur, 111., and engaged in painting for six years. He next engaged in painting at Bloomington for seven years. After which he went to Ireland and received an inheritance of $ 40,000. In 1876, he returned and bought him a pleasant little home of eighty acres, which he has improved. Was married, first time, in 1829, to Susan Dunn; second time to Sarah West; both of whom were born in Ireland.

J. M. HARVEY, farmer and stock-dealer; P. O. Covell; was born Feb. 6, 1837, on farm in Franklin Co., Penn., and remained there engaged in farming until the spring of 1855, when he came with his father to McLean Co., 111., settling in Dale Township, on what is now the T. A. Rogers farm. They bought a farm of eighty acres and owned it some eight years. In October, 1862, he was married to M. J. Witherow, of Franklin Co., Penn. After marriage, they settled in Shirley, one winter. Moved from there to Bloomington Township and engaged in gardening, renting a small piece of ground of J. Hessell. Rented next of W. G. Witherow, for one year. He then bought and settled the present farm of eighty acres, which he has made a beautiful home. He has held offices connected with schools ; a Director three terms ; Road Commissioner three terms; Town Clerk one term. Mr. Harvey has topped corn at 12 J cents per day ; has taught school at $30 per month ; worked by the month at $6. Mr. Harvey's life has been almost one of self-care, his mother having died when he was 12 years old. He has two children - Nellie F. and Mattie E.

A. P. HEFNER, blacksmith, Covell ; was born Dec. 7, 1825, on a farm in Augusta Co , Va.; remained there with his father as a farmer, afterward moving to Frankfort, Ind., and engaging in smithing, working there two years, moving from there to Kirkland, Ind., and engaged with his father in smithing twelve years; they then moved to a farm in Clinton Co., which they bought, working at smithing two years; he then went to Frankfort, and engaged in working at gear work with Fenner for six months ; he then moved to Delphi and engaged in smithing, and at wagon and plow works for Dunkle & Killgore for four years. In 1852, was married to Levina Witherow, of Delphi, Ind.; born in Pennsylvania In 1837, he came to McLean Co., 111., settling at Shirley and engaged in smithing for six years, moving from there to El Paso, 111., engaging in smithing two years ; he then moved to Covell, 111., and began business with nothing; has now ten lots ; his present dwelling is one of fine improvements. Has four children, viz., W. G., Florence B , Libbie M., Nannie J. He has held offices connected with schools.

JESSE HILL, farmer and stock-raiser ; P. O. Bloomington; was born Nov. 24, 1809, in Pennsylvania, near Lexington, Ky.; remained there until about 9 years old, when he left the scenes of his childhood and moved with his father to Jefferson Co., Ind.; remained until 21, engaged in milling and d'stilling for his father ; when in his 21st year, he moved to Illinois, his only treasure a little knapsack, which he carried on his back, measuring the distance with much rapidity on foot. Mr. Hill settled and engaged in working by the month at $8 ; by day at 25 cents. He soon married Col. Buler's daughter, and settled on the farm where Jesse Enlow now lives, afterward settling the present farm of 220 acres, which he took from raw prairie, and has made one of much beauty and value. Mr. Hill has been married three times ; first wife had four children - John W., Polly Ann, Jane, Martha; by second wife, had four children, viz., Nancy A., Zerah, Polly M., James; by third wife, four children - Phoebe E., Jessie A., Charles, William.

C. S. JARRETT, farm and stock ; P. 0. Bloomington ; was born in 1850, in Greenbrier Co., Va.; remained there until 21 years old ; was engaged principally in stock-raising - cattle, sheep and hogs. When Mr. Jarrett was 2 years old, his father died and left him as one of a family of five children - Johnson, Leonard, Clark, Kate. In 1871, he came with his mother to McLean Co., 111., and settled on the beautiful little farm of sixty-five acres, on which they now make themselves very comfortable. The situation of this farm and surroundings make it one much to be desired. Leonard and Johnson were in the civil war ; Johnson returned, but Leonard never more saw his old native home ; he died with brain fever.

WILLIAM JOHNSON, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O. Bloomington; was one of fourteen children, and was born in West Virginia in 1829, on a farm, and remained there, engaged in farming and going to school, until 20 years old. In 1846, he came to Illinois, with a number of hands, to manage farming 1,260 acres, which his father bought ; they came to Illinois by team, stopping over Sunday and enjoying, perhaps, the company of some lone wanderer who had staked his tent along some beautiful brook. Mr. Johnson was on farm in Twin Grove three years before marriage, managing and improving this raw prairie. In 1851, he was married to Amanda Harris, daughter of A. C. Harris, of Kentucky, born in 1808; he was a minister in his younger days, and his father a minister all his life, and was the father of seventeen children - twelve boys and five girls ; six boys were ministers. Mr. and Mrs. Harris had five children ; one is professor in Lincoln (111.) schools ; immediately after marriage, they settled the present farm, then 160 acres, given him by his father, which he has increased to 300 acres ; he has, in all, 830 acres, and is a stock-holder in McLean County Agricultural Society ; he has held school offices twelve years ; hired a substitute for civil war at $900. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson are active members of the M. E. Church at Twin Grove; they have taken quite an active part in moving and preparing this house of worship ; they have seven children, viz., Belle, Emma, Ida, Ellen, Willie, Amos and an infant; they are taking quite an interest in schooling their children; Emma and Belle are attending the Wesleyan University at Bloomington. Mr. Johnson makes a specialty in feeding stock and trading in same. The war whoops of the murdering Indians had scarcely ceased when Mr. Johnson settled this lonely prairie, and at his settlement yet remained many deer and wolves, which had narrowly escaped the flint-rock spears of these savage red men. Mr. Johnson, father of Wm. Johnson, was born in Virginia in 1794; died in 1877; his mother was born in Virginia in 1800, and died in 1861. Mr. Johnson's grandfather was a Captain in the Mexican war, and was a great hunter and associate of Daniel Boone, of Kentucky. Thus ends the sketch of lives which have been active every moment of their short career, and many of them have realized the full amount and even more of their allotted three score and ten.

JAMES LUCAS, farm and stock ; P. O. Bloomington ; was born in White Co., 111., Dec. 25, 1812, and remained there working at farming and distillery until 22 years old. In 1833, he was married to Mary A. McFall, of Ohio. After marriage, they settled in White Co. until 1834; then moving to McLean Co., settling near Le Roy, on a farm which they bought of the Government ; was then engaged in farmiug twelve years; he then settled in Bloomington and engaged in a confectionery and bakery, in partnership with William Harvey ; closing out business there, he settled on a farm in Allin Township, which he bought, remaining some eight years, moving from there to Dale Township, buying a farm of 100 acres, earned entirely by his own labor and management, paying $9,000 for it; one time of note, when the Indians made way to his father's house, and, finding an opening through the log hut, they put their guns through and fired, luckily, killing no one. They have four children - S. Jane, John, Martha and Francis.

JOHN LUCAS, farmer and stock-raiser; P.O. Bloomington ; was born Sept. 11, 1839, on a farm two miles east of Le Roy ; remained there engaged in farming for his father and teaching school - taught four years, winter and summer : in 1867, he began farming for himself on his farm in what is now Allin Township, for eight years ; he then sold out, and bought the present farm of eighty acres, forty of which was given him by his father, and the rest they have obtained by their own efforts. He managed this farm until married, which was in 1867 to Elizabeth Sill, of Pennsylvania ; born in 1847. They settled on his farm immediately after marriage. He and wife are active members of the M. E. Church at Twin Grove ; he is teacher in the Sunday school at that place; has held school offices and Pathmaster. They have four children - Charlie E., Lillie D., Gracy and an infant.

JAMES G. McCLELLAN, farmer and stock-raiser ; P. O. Shirley ; was born March 28, 1824, on a farm in Mifflin Co , Penn.; remained there till 1851, when he came to McLean Co., 111., settling on his present farm of 109 acres, which he has obtained by his own efforts ; when he was 2 years old, his mother died, and he was left in care of Mr. and Mrs. McNiel. Mr. McClellan was married Dec. 23, 1873, to Mary Croft, born in 1851, in Somerset Co., Penn. After marriage, they began housekeeping on the present farm ; when Mr. McClellan settled in Illinois, the country was but little settled ; the farm he now lives on is one of fine quality, being intersected by the C. & A. R. R. ; he has made good improvements ; does his own carpentering and smithing. He was, by marriage with Mary Croft, blessed with three children - James, George B. and Alice May.

SAMUEL MILLER, Shirley ; was born Jan. 12, 1826, on a farm in Kentucky ; remained there until 9 years old, when he came with his father to McLean Co., settling in Dale Township, renting of Henshaw for two years ; his father then bought land in Dale Township, settled, and engaged in farming ; Mr. Miller worked for his father until 21 years old, when, on Aug. 28, 1847, he was married to Priscilla Allison, of Pennsylvania ; after marriage, they settled on the present farm of eighty acres, which they have improved and made an elegant home. Mr. Miller was one of fifteen children, the blessings of the marriage of his father to Miss Lloyd ; all the family of children are now living, except one, who died in the army. Mr. Miller has held offices connected with schools as Director, and Pathmaster. They have eight children - Isabel, Annie, Priscilla, Thomas, Samuel, Rebecca, Elmira and Luella.

JONATHAN PARK, farmer and stock-raiser ; P. O Shirley ; the son of Eli Park, of North Carolina; was born on a farm in Madison Co., Ky., July 14, 1815, and remained there until 1853 ; engaged in farming for his father and teaching until 1836, when he married Borthana Quinn, who was born in Kentucky Oct. 27, 1818 ; they immediately began farming, renting of Moberly for one year ; he afterward bought 64 acres, paying for it by his own labor ; they settled on this farm and improved and increased it to 119 acres, when, in 1853, they sold out and came by team to McLean Co., 111., settling in Dale Township, on their present farm of 226 acres, which they have made and improved : the whole country was then mostly raw prairie. Mr.

Park is very careful in business, keeps an account of every cent received and paid out,, not even the least item being left out ; he also keeps a diary of every day. Has held office in the militia, in Kentucky, for ten years; as Captain and Major; Township Trustee, Assessor five terms, Commissioner two terms, Justice of the Peace seven years, School Director ten years. He does his own carpentering. He and wife are members of the Christian Church, of which denomination he has served as a minister for twenty years ; has also auctioned goods. Their marriage blessed them with eight children, all of whom are church members - Minerva E., Sydney I., Alwilda J., William E., Hiram R., Rboda W., Sallie, Lucy, Mary.

QUINN & QU1NN, merchants, Shirley. These gentlemen are the leading merchants of Shirley ; they carry a stock of general merchandise; commenced business in 1876, having purchased a stock from William B. Lane. They are natives of Kentucky, H. W. Quinn being the senior member ; B. F. Quinn was born Oct. 23, 1851, and is the son of S. M. and Sallie A.. (Boulware) Quinn, of Kentucky, having moved to McLean Co. in 1852.

J. W. ROGERS, farm and stock ; P. 0. Covell ; was born March 9, 1835, on a farm in Perry Co., Penn., remained there engaged in farming, working for people by month and day; his father was a weaver by trade, was born in 1806 ; married, June 19, 1827, to Elizabeth Waterson, born in Terry Co., Penn. J. W. Rogers was third son of W. L. Rogers, and, in 1847, he came with his parents to Peoria, 111., settling there for four years, his father engaging in weaving and teaming, and thus employed his son ; they next moved to a farm near Peoria, renting of Charles Denton for four years ; he then came to Funk's Grove Township, remaining five years farming ; he then, with his father, bought the present farm of 160 acres, which they have earned by their own labor and management. Was married, in 1862, to Nancy A. Hull, born in Illinois in 1841 . Mr. Rogers has worked by the month at $10, the receipts of which he has frugally used, has grown from a poor boy to a manhood accompanied by plenty of the world's sustenance. He and his wife have not forgotten the eternity of life, and have been active members of M. E. Church sometime; have four children, viz., Lelia, Louis E., Jesse, Eddy; deceased - Ollie. His father and mother live with him.

T. A. ROGERS, farm and stock ; P. 0. Covell ; was born July 1, 1828, in Perry Co., Penn., and remained there engaged in farming and working at barking for tanners until 20 years old u his parents were poor, and he was compelled to work by the month at $4 to $6 per month ; in 1847, they came to Peoria Co., 111. ; when the family landed at Peoria, they had not one cent ; Mr. Rogers was engaged for a time in rafting timber and managing a saw-mill at Peoria for four years ; the family moved to a farm in Peoria Co., renting of Charles Denton for four years. In 1855, was married to Elizabeth M. Shrade, born in Perry Co., Penn. ; after marriage, they settled on the Sholty farm for one winter; in spring of 1856, they settled the present farm of 160 acres, which they have obtained by their own efforts; has made improvements by tiling and buildings, making a most beautiful and productive farm. Has held held offices connected with schools, and Commissioner ; is now on his fifth term of the Patron's Fire Insurance Co., of Stanford, as Director and Treasurer. He and his wife belong to M. E. Church at Covell ; he is Trustee and Steward ; has five children, viz., Maggie, Mary B., Stephen A. D., Nettie, Arthur.

W. H. ROGERS, farm and stock ; P. 0. Covell ; was born in February, 1833, in Perry Co., Penn., on a farm ; remained there engaged in farming and working by the month at $3 for three years, would drive four-horse teams; in 1847, he moved to Peoria, 111., and, settling there, engaged in rafting and saw-mill business for two years, for Capt. Moss, Bradley & Smith, at $12 per month ; in 1850, they moved to a farm in Peoria Co., renting of Charles Denton for five years. In 1855, he was married to Mary Hart of Kentucky, born in 1839 ; her parents were born in Kentucky ; after marriage, they settled on present farm of eighty acres, which was then raw prairie, but now by their management has become one of fine quality. Mr. Rogers is a brother of T. A. Rogers, whose family ancestiy has been referred to, noting the fact that at their landing in Peoria, they had not 1 cent. tie and his wife belong to the Presbyterian Church. He has held offices of school and Pathmaster ; they have had eight children, viz.. William (deceased), Carrie, Lottie, Fannie (deceased), Addie, Lucy, Mattie, W. C.

D. H. SALISBURY, farmer and stock-raiser : P. 0. Covell ; was born in New York March 2, 1813 ; remained there until 1 year old, when he moved to Rhode Island ; his father died when he was quite young, leaving him in the care of his mother, who lived among her people for some time ; she then moved to Miami Co., Ohio, leaving D. H. with an uncle of his, where he made a home until 21 ; he then went to Miami Co., Ohio, where his mother and brother were; remained there until 1837, at which time they moved to South Bend, Ind., and engaged in farming for one year; returned then to Miami Co., remaining until 1843, when they moved to Illinois, settling in McLean Co., and renting for five years; he then settled on the present farm of 125 acres, earned entirely by his own labor and management. Was married in 1850 to Irene Baker, of Indiana.

JOSHUA SELLS, farmer and stock-raiser ; P. O. Bloomington ; was born in 1827, in Franklin Co., Ohio, on the bank of Scioto River; remained there engaged in farming and teaching; taught six terms. Was married when 22 years old to Eliza J. Smith, a native of Watertown, N. Y., daughter of Col. Smith, of war of 1812 ; after marriage, they settled on a farm of thirty-three acres in Franklin Co., which he increased to 133 acres; they remained there until

1864, and then came to McLean Co., 111., and engaged in farming his present farm of 247 acres, earned entirely by their labors, on which farm Mr. Sells takes much pains in raising stock and grain; he makes a specialty in seed-corn. Has held office of Justice of the Peace six years Director of Schools twenty-four years in Ohio and Illinois ; Commissioner of Highways. Was in the army in 1863, entering in the 95th and 133d Ohio V. I.; he takes the stump on the Greenback system ; was a delegate to Cleveland to inaugurate the Greenback party, and to Indianapolis to nominate a ticket, which resulted for Cooper and Cary, and to Toledo to name the party. Has six children - Laura E., Charles S., Samuel, Sumner, Abram, 0. P.

JACOB SHOLTEY, farmer and stock-raiser; P. 0. Shirley; was born Sept. 10, 1805, in Lancaster Co., Penn.; remained there thirty-three years, engaged in farming. In 1830, he married Mary Kauffman, born in 1810; after marriage, they settled on a farm, Mr. Sholtey working by the day at 40 cents, and at $4 per month ; in 1835, he moved to Juniata Co., Penn., and engaged in a flouring-mill for one year ; selling out, he settled three miles east of Dayton, Ohio, and engaged in working for Messrs. Monker and Williams for six months ; he moved from there to Indiana, settling in Delaware Co., on a farm of eighty acres, which they bought in green woods ; their only bedstead during seven years, was poles fastened to the wall and made to rest on a stool at the other end ; next bought mill property, owning it four years ; in 1849, he moved to Bloomington, 111., engaging in farming, renting of W. Wallace; in 1850, settled on his present farm of 125 acres, which they have increased to 630 acres, earning all by their own labor and management ; has made fine improvements ; the barn cost $4,000 ; has fine facilities for watering stock. Has had nine children - Christian (deceased), Henry C, Susan, Samuel B. F., Benjamin D., Levi W., Annie M., Sophia (deceased), John (deceased).

FRANKLIN SPAULDING, farmer and stock-raiser; P.O. Bloomington; was born . ept. 6, 1799, on a farm in Windsor Co., Vt., and remained there until he was 27 years old, at which time he was married to Azubah H. Cole, of Vermont; after marriage, they settled in Weathersfield, Windsor Co., until 1849, then moving by team, as was customary, to Troy, taking canal, bound for Buffalo, and by steamer they glided over the foaming waves and anchored safely in harbor at Detroit, taking Michigan Central to New Buffalo, from thence to Chicago, and were soon seen gliding down the beautiful canal toward La Salle ; they finally settled in Sangamon Co., 111. In September, 1849, they settled on their present farm of 128 acres, earned entirely by their own labor and management. Have had three children, viz., Mary M., deceased in 1854; Amos C, deceased in 1857; Aunie E., deceased in 1857. Has held the office of Justice of the Peace in Vermont ; School Director, in Vermont, three terms, in Illinois two terms. Mr. Spaulding is an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

DR. E. STRETCH, physician, Shirley; was born in McLean Co., 111., June 2, 1852, on a farm ; remained there on the farm, which was four miles north of Towanda, until 4 years old, when his father moved to Lexington and engaged in livery business until 1860, when he moved to a farm, renting of S. White for some four years ; moving from there to a farm near Towanda, remaining until 1870, at which time his father bought a store in Towanda and had Mr. Stretch take care of it for some seven years, during which time he was reading medicine with L»r. Ready of Towanda. In 1876-77-78 he attended the Rush Medical College at Chicago. He paid his own way through college. On his return from college, he began business in Shirley and is the only physician at that place. He was married in 1876 to Ella Rogers, a daughter of Dr. Rogers, of Heyworth ; they have no children.

D. R. STUBBLEFIELD, farmer and stock-raiser: P. 0. Covell ; was born April 13, 1846, in Funk's Grove Township, on a farm, remaining there some time ; then moved with his father to his present farm in Funk's Grove, and remained engaged in farming for his father until 24 years old, when, in December, 1870, he was married to Matilda Bower, born in Pennsylvania in 1844, and came to Illinois in 1846 ; immediately after marriage, they settled on their present farm of 160 acres, inherited by his father, which they have improved by building a beautiful house and barn, and have done a good deal of tiling on the farm. Mr. Stubblefield makes a specialty of breeding fine imported Norman horses ; is in partnership with P. M. Stubblefield. Has held the office of School Director five years, and is now of No. 6, Dale. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Covell ; he is Steward and Class Leader and Trustee ; has also been Recording Steward. Children - Lilly G., deceased, Nettie M.. Lawrence W.

J. P. STUBBLEFIELD, farmer and stock-raiser; P. 0. Shirley; was born Feb. 28, 1845, on farm in Funk's Grove Township. He was third son of Abraham Stubblefield. He remained there until 1 year old, when he left the scene of his childhood, and moved with his father to the farm now occupied by him in Funk's Grove Township. He remained with his father until 28 years old, at which time, on Aug. 8, 1867, he was married to N. C. Thomas ; born in Fayette Co., Penn. Her father was from Pennsylvania; his mother, whose maiden name was Moore, was born in Maryland. Mrs. Stubblefield, wife of J. P., came to Illinois with her sister, Mrs. Bright. Immediately after marriage they settled on present farm of 225 acres ; 143 of which was given him by his father, the rest they have made by their own labor and management. It was then raw prairie, but now has become a fine farm, by being improved by building and tiling. He has held offices connected with schools. He and wife are members of United Brethren Church. Have one child - Cora. Mr. Stubblefield takes great interest in educating Cora, both in music and literature. Rachel Horden, a sister of Mrs. Stubblefield, makes her home with them, and is one of fourteen children. Her father and mother are still living in Adams Co., Md.

EDWARD WILSON, farmer and stock-raiser; P. 0. Bloomington ; son of William Wilson, and brother of A. J. Wilson; was born in Madison Co., N. Y., Aug. 6, 1827, on farm ; remained there until 17 years old, engaged in farming. In 1844, he came with his father to McLean Co., 111., settling in Dale Township, in what is now Twin Grove. He remained with his father until 1854, and then began business for himself, on his present farm of 300 acres, which he has principally earned. Mr. William Wilson, father of A. J. and Edward, was born at Newcastle-upon- Tyne, England. He emigrated to America early [in this century, and stopped for a while at Schenectady, and afterward came up the Mohawk on a flatboat, and landed at what was then known as Bigg's Tavern, now the flourishing city of Utica. Mr. Ed. Wilson has been an active Republican, casting his first vote when 21, and has missed but one vote since in any election. In 1864, was married to Mrs. Louisa McWhorter, of Kentucky. Her father was from Philadelphia, Penn. In 1846, he joined the army to go to the Mexican war. Was rejected on account. of lameness. He has held office of schools nine years as Director. Is now Assessor of Dale Township. They have had four children - William L., Esther M., John P.; deceased - Walter C. Stephen A. McWhorter, step-son of Mr. Wilson.

A. J. WILSON, farmer and stock-raiser; P. 0. Bloomington; was born in 1829, Dec. 26, on farm in Madison Co., N. Y.; remained there, farming, until 21 ; when he was 14 years old, his father moved to Illinois, leaving A. J. with his uncle, Edward Wilson, with whom he made his home until 1850, when he came to Bloomington and engaged in clerking for Betts, Allen & Co., in dry goods, for twelve years. In 1860, he was married to Ellen Cornell, of Providence, R. I. After marriage, they settled in Springfield, 111., and he clerked for Benjamin & Co., in dry goods store for two years. He then returned to McLean Co., and engaged in farming on his present farm of eighty acres ; renting at that time of his father. Sometime afterward he bought, and by improvement has made a most beautiful home. Mr. Wilson, in connection with farming grain, makes a specialty of raising hedge plants. He has held office of School Director fourteen years, Supervisor of Dale Township two terms, is now on third term. They have eight children - Nellie, Charlie, Edward, Elizabeth, Abby, Mary, Robert and Frank.

IRA ABBOTT, dry goods and groceries, Danvers ; was born in Bath, Grafton Co., N. H., Feb. 17, 1828. His early life was that of a farmer's son. In addition to his common-school education, he attended select schools of a high grade, at Newbury and St. Johnsbury, Vt. In 1851, he came West to Missouri, and engaged in farming, near the present town of Dalton. In the fall of 1853, he went south to Louisiana, and engaged in gardening, near the city of New Orleans. In May, 1854, he settled in Danvers, McLean Co.,. 111., where he has since resided. Here he engaged in merchandising, ant has been conducting the dry goods and grocery business longer than any other merchant in the village. He was married, in 1851, to Martha F. Stange, of Lynchburg, Va. Six children - five boys and one daughter - have been born to them - Robert, George, Arthur, Frank, Mary, Walter. Of these, Frank and Walter are dead. Mr. Abbott was appointed Postmaster in 1861, under the administration of A. Lincoln. Under the reign of Andy Johnson, he was ousted, but re-appointed under the administration of U. S. Grant, and has since held the position. Mr. Abbott has always taken a deep interest in whatever tended' to the improvement and advancement of the interests of his village, and has always been liberal in furthering its various enterprises.

S. W. BAKER, lumber merchant, Danvers; was born in Westfield, Essex (now Union) Co., N. J., May 11, 1830. His early life was spent in farm labor, and his education secured at the common schools. In 1832, his father moved to the immediate vicinity of Elizabeth City, N. J., and here S. W. grew up to manhood. At the age of 16, he went to New York City, to learn his trade - that of a mason. He served an apprenticeship of four years. At the age of 23, he returned to New Jersey, remaining till the spring of 1860, when he came West, and, Aug. 17, 1860, located in Danvers. He followed his trade nine years. In 1869, he bought out the grocery and hardware store of George Baun, and conducted the business till September, 1876. He then sold to J. S. Yoder. In January, 1875, he had purchased the lumber yard of Mr. Fordyce, and this he has since operated. He was married, March 17, 1853, to Elizabeth Cory, a native of New York City. Five children have been born to them - Aaron T., Henry, Mary, and two dying in infancy. Has held the office of Town Trustee five terms. Owns eighty-five acres of land, town property, lumber yard, and is financially solid. He has met with good success in his various business enterprises, and is a thorough-going business man.

Co., Ohio, May 20. 1832. His early life was spent in attendance upon the graded schools of Adelphi, his native village At the age of 16 years, he attended upon his father's warerooms, in the capacity of clerk and book-keeper. His father was a cabinet-maker by trade. In 1849, the family moved to Bloomington, 111. In 1851, he entered the employ of Newman & Co., as clerk in their dry goods store. In 1852, he went to Vermont, Fulton Co., in a like capacity, in the employ of Stevens & Wining. In 1854, he came to Danvers, and was connected with the general store of T. J. Bunn one and one-half years. He next formed a copartnership with Gen. E. N. Banks, and engaged in the sale of furniture in Petersburg, Menard Co., one and one-half years. In 1857, he returned to Vermont, Fulton Co., and, in company with a Mr. Swartz, engaged in the sale of furniture for the space of five years. In 1862, he went to Macomb, and was in the same business one year. In 1864, he returned to Danvers. Here he has since been engaged in active mercantile life. At one time, he operated a general store, was partner in a boot and shoe store, and also operated a grocery store. He has equipped and started more stores than any other citizen of the village, and has done more to advance the interests of the village than any other one man within her limits. In 1870, he engaged in the real estate and loan business. He was married, Aug. 1, 1854, to Ellen N. Reyburn, a native of Illinois. Has had six children - Adie, Etta, Harry, Eddie. Frank and Nellie. Of these, Adie is dead. He was commissioned a Notary Public, July 13, 1878, by Gov. S. M. Cullom. Has been a member of the Board of Village Trustees six or seven terms, and President of the Board four terms ; also Director of the Village Schools three terms. Since 1876, in connection with his merchandising, he has bought and shipped grain largely. He is a successful, active, energetic business man, and has given his best energies to further the interests of the village.

JACOB COOPER; farmer, P. 0. Danvers; was born in Hardy Co., Va., Jan. 12, 1827. When 9 years of age, he came with his parents to Greene Co., Ohio. Here he grew to manhood, receiving rather a limited education at the common schools. At his majority, he began life for himself as a farmer. In 1849, he came West to Illinois, and settled near the site of his present residence. Soon after coming, he purchased forty acres. This he has increased by successive purchases, until he now owns three hundred and seventy acres. He was married Oct. 9, 1848, to Mary J. Pierce, a native of Indiana. The same minister officiated at his nuptials that performed the marriage ceremony for his bride's father and mother. He has five children - Charles W., Margaret E., Louisa B., Parizade D., Henry F. When Mr. Cooper landed at what was to be his future home, he had a cash capital of but $22 ; but, with a stout heart and willing hands, he set about the work of gaining a livelihood, and by industry and good management, he has acquired a desirable competency for himself and family.

H. I. DEAL, farmer; P. O. Danvers; was born in Waynesboro, Augusta Co., Va., Oct. 13, 1817. He is the son of John and Ellen (Imboden) Deal. His father was a tanner by trade. Young Deal attended the village schools until 14 years of age. He worked upon the farm owned by his father for the space of four years. At the age of 18, he began the saddler's trade, and served an apprenticeship of three years in the village of Greenville. He followed his trade ab; ut twenty-five years. In the fall of 1849, he came to McLean Co., 111., and settled on the farm now owned by J. L. Shorthose, purchasing at that time 140 acres of land. In 1851, he sustained an injury in the fracture of his left leg, and was thereby rendered unable to follow farming for some years. He rented his farm for some time, moved to Danvers (then Concord), and again worked at his trade. In 1857, he purchased a stock of dry goods and groceries and engaged in merchandising about two years. He purchased his present farm in 1861, improved it, and moved to it in 1864. He was married Jan. 2, 1841, to Catharine G. Swope, a native of Virginia. Four children have been born to them - John H., Elizabeth M., James H., Ella E. Of these, John H. and Elizabeth M. are deceased. Owns 171 acres, valued at $11,000. Has held the office of Justice of the Peace for a number of years. His finely-improved farm is in perfect keeping with those of his surrounding neighbors.

A. S. DU>LOP, farmer; P. O. Danvers; was born in Washington, Washington Co., Penn., Jan. 18, 1815. In the following March, his father moved to Ohio and settled in Fairfield Co. Here A. S. grew to manhood, a farmer's son, not receiving over six months' tuition at the common schools. He remained at the homestead and contributed to the support of the family till 30 years of age. In October, 1861, he came West to Illinois, and first settled in Vermilion Co. In 1866, he moved to Tazewell Co., and, the following year, to McLean Co. In the spring of 1868, he purchased his present farm in Danvers Township, and began improving the same. He owns 130 acres, valued at $6 500. He was married June 25, 1846, to Sarah Bott, a native of York Co., Penn. Has had twelve children, eight sons and four daughters - Constantine H., William L., George W., Alexander L., Olfver P., John H., Charles F., Mary E, Caroline A.; two infant daughters and an infant son are deceased. He has kept a daily record of passing events for a period of thirty-six years past. This contains much interesting and useful information.

_J0HN A. EWINS, farmer and stock-dealer ; P. 0. Danvers. The subject of this sketch, whose portrait appears in the work, was born in Kingston, N. H., in November, 1825. He is the son of James P. and Mehitable (Clement) Ewins. His father and family came West in 1834, stopping a short time in Chicago. At that time, the present city of Chicago was a village of not more than 300 inhabitants. Here John A. attended school on what was known as the South Side. In October, 1834, he remembers seeing wolves chased over the very ground whereon now stand the finest portions of the city, many being pushed into the Lake near where the Exposition

Building now stands. Indians, at that time, were numerous in Chicago, and on one occasion, as young Ewins was carrying home a bucket of water, he was accosted by a very large Indian, who, in broken English, said to him, " Gimme drink of water." He replied, I have nothing from which you can drink ; ' whereupon the Indian took up the bucket and drank from it, and, with a grunt of satisfaction, passed on. Mr. Ewins, though but a boy, deemed this act rather cool on the part of the noble red man of the forest. He remembers to have seen a wedding celebrated, in which the contracting parties were a gentleman of 60 and a blooming and blushing lassie of sweet 16. In December, 1834, the family settled in La Salle Co., at Waupaunsie Grove, his father pre-empting 200 acres of land. This was afterward purchased by an Eastern capitalist, and one-half, or 100 acres, given to his father in compensation for the information he had given him of the country. In the fall of 1836, the family came to McLean Co., and stopped a short time near the present village of Danvers. In the spring of 1837, his father purchased forty acres of what is now included in the homestead of his son. He died in November, 1846. Mr. Ewins lived with his parents till his majority. Starting in life for himself, he engaged in farming. In the spring of 1856, he moved to Danvers, and engaged in merchandising. In 1858, he returned to his farm, where he now resides ; now owns 600 acres in McLean Co. Most of his land is in pasture and meadow, and he deals largely in cattle and hogs. In 1869, he purchased one-half interest in the Danvers Mills ; this he sold in 1873. In 1865, he was chosen Supervisor of Danvers Township, and his efficiency in managing the interests of the township is best attested by the fact that he is now serving out his eleventh term in that capacity. He was married, in 1854, to Euphemia E. Blair, a native of Illinois ; she died ten days after marriage. He was married to his present wife, Malinda T. Franks, a native of Boone Co., Ky., in 1856 ; has three children - Jennie L., Frank P., Chester R. Mr. Ewins has been largely successful in his various enterprises, and is to-day one of the wealthy men of his township.

B. J. FORBES, stock-shipping and butchering ; P. O. Danvers ; was born near Cadiz, Harrison Co., Ohio, A. D. 1834 : his early life was passed upon the farm, with the experience of a farmer's son ; his education was limited to attendance upon the common schools ; in the fall of 1852, he came to Illinois, with the family of his father, settling in what is now Dry Grove Township ; his father died in 1855 ; B. J. remained at home and superintended the farm interests for his mother and younger members of the family ; his older brothers were then waging the battle of life for themselves. He was married in 1865, to Maretta Dawson, a native of Illinois ; her grandparents and parents were among the earliest settlers of McLean Co. Has had three children - Harry L., Annie B., Charlie ; of these, Annie B. is deceased. He at present owns eighty-six acres of the old homestead, in Dry Grove Township, and village property in Danvers. Was Collector of Dry Grove Township one term, and has held the office of School Director. In addition to buying and shipping stock, he operates a first-class meat market, in Bloomington.

JAMES T. FRANKS, farmer, deceased ; P. 0. Danvers ; was born in Virginia Dec. 1, 1795 ; he was raised a farmer's son, and received a limited education'at the common schools ; his early manhood was spent in farming and various other pursuits. He was twice married, the first time to Malinda O'Rear, a native of Virginia; his second marriage was to Rebecca Walton, of Kentucky, who still survives him. In 1836, he came to Tazewell Co., 111., and settled in Pekin ; here he remained about nine years : in 1845, he came to McLean Co. and settled the farm now resided upon by his widow and youngest son; he died Dec. 31, 1872. Eleven children were the fruit of this union - Mary F (wife of James Rose), Elizabeth W. (wife of Heuson Richmond), Malinda T. (married John A. Ewins), William H., Amanda M. (married John Huffman, Louisa E., Rebecca A. (married Robert K. Jones), Jennie E. (married John S. Popple), James R., Lucilla W. (married James Wilson), Eugene L. Mr. Franks was an energetic business man, kind and obliging to his neighbors and friends. He never aspired to political preferment, and held no office save that of School Director.

EUGENE L. FRANKS, farmer : P. 0. Danvers; was born in Danvers Township, McLean Co., 111., Nov. 26, 1854 ; he was reared on the farm where he nowlives, and is the youngest of a family of eleven children ; in addition to his common-school education, he attended Lincoln College one year, when, on account of ill-health, he relinquished his studies : he has always resided at home with his parents, and for the past four years has operated the farm, in the interests of himself and his widowed mother. He was married, Sept. 12, 1878, to Carrie E. Johnston, a native of Springfield, 111. In addition to his farming, he takes much interest in the breeding and rearing of fine stock.

DR. D. C. GIDEON, physician and editor, Danvers ; was born Nov. 27, 1848, on Wolf Creek, Sangamon Co., 111., the first and only child of his parents, Alfred L. and Elizabeth Gideon ; in March, 1851, his parents moved to Mount Pulaski, 111., which town was then the county seat of Logan Co. : here he grew up to manhood, attending school ; he was 18 years old when he began the study of medicine, under the tutelage of his uncle, Dr. John Clark. The 1st day of August, 1867, in company with Daniel Morgan, he started on horseback for the West ; the fall was spent in traveling over Missouri and along the Kansas border ; returning home early in the winter, he continued his medical studies until the following spring, when, on the 1st of May, he again started for the West, driving a herd of cattle and mules for Milton Patterson, who had sold his farm to Jacob Row, who afterward became the father-in-law of Dr. Gideon ; arriving in Jasper

Co., Mo., about the 1st of June, he concluded to again look over the State of Missouri ; the summer was spent in travel, and, in September, he returned to Mount Pulaski, and, on the 27th of that month, 1868, was married to Miss Sarah Row, youngest daughter of Jacob and Sarah Row, Dr. John Clark officiating; their first child, Alfred, was born June 4, 1869; during the summer of 1870, he engaged in farming his land, one mile northeast of Mount Pulaski ; this not proving of sufficient interest to him, he again rented his farm the next spring and commenced the practice of medicine ; Feb. 4, 1873, he graduated with honor at the Eclectic Medical Institute of Cincinnati, Ohio ; their second son, Clark, was born April 6, 1873 ; after his return home, he formed a partnership with his former preceptor, and continued his practice until November, 1873, when he again formed a partnership with Dr. W. H. Davis, of Springfield, where he removed, and, until the 1st of May, 1874, did a good business; the continued illness of his mother kept him by her side until her death, in August, at which time he came back to Mount Pulaski and settled up his business, when, selling his farm to his father, he removed to Watseka, Iroquois Co., III. ; here he lived for two years, but, not liking the swamps and sand ridges of Iroquois Co., he removed to Danvers, McLean Co., 111., March 14, 1877, where he purchased a comfortable residence, and has since that time had a very good practice. March 29, he, together with George Bunn, started a weekly paper, known as the Danvers Independent ; soon afterward, Mr. Bunn withdrew, leaving Dr. Gideon editor and proprietor; the paper promises to become one of the permanent things of Danvers. Dr. Gideon enjoys an extensive acquaintance with the professional men of Illinois, and, being yet a young man, has a good chance for promotion in his profession.

J. T. GUNNELL, farmer and stock-dealer; P. 0. Danvers ; was born in Christian Co., Ky., May 9, 1830; in 1834, his father came West and located in Tazewell Co., 111., on a quartersection of land, entered the fall previous to his removal; this he improved and sold, and, in 1837, the family moved to Stout's Grove (now Danvers Township), McLean Co., where he purchased and improved 200 acres of land ; this farm is still in the possession of the family and is managed by the eldest son, J. T. Guunell ; young Gunnell passed his early life upon the farm, and, in addition to his common-school education, attended, for a short time, a select school kept by Cyrus Haines, a Presbyterian minister in the church at Stout's Grove, and known as Stout's Grove Academy ; after his majority, he engaged in the rearing of sheep for some years handling from 1,500 to 2,000 head per annum ; he owns 160 acres in Tazewell Co., which he keeps mainly for a stock farm. Has held the office of Road Commissioner. So far through life, Mr. Gunnell has resisted Cupid's darts and bids fair to end his days in the enjoyment of single blessedness.

O. T. HALL, farmer ; P. 0. Danvers; was born in Rockingham Co., N. H., April 3, 1828 ; in 1834, his parents came West to Illinois, stopping for a short time in Chicago ; his father first settled permanently where his son now lives, purchasing eighty acres, and, soon after, aD additional eighty, a part of which is now comprised in the limits of the village of Danvers ; he was reared a tiller of the soil, and obtained his education in the common or subscription schools of his boyhood ; he has always remained with his parents. He was married, in December, 1 870, to Eliza E. Wilson, a native, of Indiana; has one child - Gertie Wilson. Owns 240 acres and village property. Has held the office of School Trustee and that of Town Clerk four or five years. He is one of the substantial business men of his township.

F. M. HALL, farmer and stock-dealer; P. 0. Danvers; was born in Todd Co., Ky., March 25, 1833 ; his father. Young Hall, came with his family to Illinois in 1835, and first stopped in Washington, Tazewell Co. ; in 1836, he came to Stout's Grove, McLean Co., where he engaged in running a saw and corn mill ; his son secured to himself a good education for those days ; he attended some two or three winters the academy at Stout's Grove, under the direction of Rev. Cyrus Haines ; he received his first certificate from Prof. C. P. Merriman and taught school the winter he was 19 years of age; the following spring, he began breaking prairie with an oxteam ; before he was 20. he purchased 130 acres in Dry Grove Township, for which he paid $9 per acre ; this he might have purchased two years before at $1 and $1.25 per acre ; so successful was he in farming, that the first crop of wheat he raised paid for the land, the breaking and fencing included ; he now owns 600 acres in McLean Co., requiring some fifteen miles of fencing to inclose it ; Mr. Hall has been very successful in life, and attributes most of his moneygetting to the successful handling of cattle ; his life has been largely devoted to this branch of business ; he was a personal friend and acquaintance of Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas, having visited the latter at his home in Washington City; by an extended course of reading, he has kept himself posted on the leading topics of the day and is well versed in ancient and modern history ; he has made two trips to Mt. Vernon, Washington City, and spent a week at the late Centennial. He was married in 1855 to Jane E. Barnard, of Illinois ; has had eight children - James F., Lydia R. (wife of Bennett Swarely), Young M., Eva J., living; William, Eddie, Jesse, Ella, deceased. Has held the office of School Director.

JAMES HAYS, farmer; P. 0. Danvers; was born in Knox Co. , Ohio, May 4, 1834; he obtained a good English education at the common schools, and spent his early life upon his father's farm; at the age of 25 years, he purchased a small farm of fifty-three acres, and engaged in farming for himself; in 1864, he came West, to Illinois, and settled in McLean Co., near the place where he at present resides. He is the eldest of a family of seven, and is the only member of the family living. He was married Dec. 15, 1858, to Isabel Murdock, a native of Ohio; has three children - Mary E., Sarah L., Bertha E. He is the son of William and Martha (Hood) Hays ; his father still lives, having reached an advanced age. He owns eighty acres, well improved, valued atjj>4,000 ; has held the office of School Director. Mr. Hays is a genial, affable gentleman, possessed of rare social qualities, a successful farmer and a kind and obliging neighbor.

I. D. JAMES, farmer and stock-dealer; P. 0. Danvers; was born in New London Co., Conn., A. D. 1812; when he was 16 years of age, his father moved to Western New York ; his early life was devoted to farming and the acquisition of an English education ; besides his common school education, he attended a select school for some time, in Le Roy, N. Y.; after reaching manhood, he learned the carpenter's trade ; this he followed a few years, securing from hard labor at the bench the means with which to enter a quarter-section of land in Michigan. In the fall of 1837, he came West to prospect the country ; the broad expanse of the Prairie State captivated him, and he at once determined to make it his home. Returning to New York, he was married, Oct. 2, 1838, to Olive M. Hinsdale; soon after marriage, he came with his young bride, and, settling down where they now live, purchased eighty acres and began life in earnest. He now owns 570 acres, and deals extensively in stock. By industry and good management he has accumulated a vast amount of property ; no one more energetic and stirring can be found in the community to-day.

ANDREW JARRETT, farmer; P. 0. Danvers; was born in Greenbrier Co., W. Va., Dec. 17, 1847 ; he was reared a farmer's boy, and secured only a common-school education; he lost his father when but 5 years of age ; at the age of 17 years, he took supervision of the farm for his mother ; at his majority, he began life for himself; he purchased the homestead as the heirs became of age, thus securing for himself a farm of 180 acres in the " Old Dominion." He sold out in January, 1877, and the following November came to Illinois, stopping for the winter With his mother, near Bloomington. March 1, 1878, he took possession of his present farm, southwest of the village of Danvers ; owns 200 acres, all in a fine state of improvement, valued at $12,000. He was married Oct. 5, 1871, to Alice M. Argabrite, a native of West Virginia ; has three children - Laura, Delta [., Ora J. He devotes himself mainly to the rearing of cattle and hogs, and has been very successful in his business enterprises. - 'J. WALLACE JOHNSON, farmer and stock-dealer; P. 0. Danvers; was born in Monroe Co., W. Va , Aug. 27, 1847 : he is the son of Caleb and Louisa (Beard) Johnson ; in 1856, his father came West to Illinois, and settled upon the farm now owned and occupied by his son ; he purchased about 600 acres of land in Danvers Township, McLean Co. ; this he improved and brought to a fine state of cultivation ; Wallace was raised a farmer's son. In addition to his common-school education, he attended for the space of one year Lincoln College, but owing to ill health was obliged to relinquish his studies at the end of that time ; he returned to the farm and has since devoted himself to agricultural pursuits. He now owns 440 acres of the old homestead secured to him by his father-in-law, Richard Rowell. He was married Feb. 7, 1878, to Lois Rowell, a native of Illinois ; her father is a very prominent and highly-respected citizen of. McLean Co. ; they have one child - Homer. Mr. Johnson bids fair to became a very successful farmer, and will doubtless follow in the footsteps of both his father and father-in-law in becoming one of McLean Co.'s wealthy farmers at no distant day.

H. M. KENNEDY, farmer and stock-dealer; P. 0. Danvers : was born in Philadelphia, Penn., A. D. 1837 : his early life was spent in attendance upon the Military Academy, at Brandywine Springs, Del., and Jefferson College, Penn. ; at the age of 20 years, he engaged in farming in Maryland, and upon his farm the first regular skirmish of the late civil war occurred ; in 1870, he came West to Illinois and settled about one mile south of the village of Danvers, where he at present resides ; this land had been entered in 1837, and was yet unimproved ; the whole track of 480 acres is at present in a high state of cultivation, and, with his fine and substantial improvements, has been rendered second to none in this whole section : in addition to his extensive farming, he rears and deals largely in cattle and hogs, handling annually some $6,000 worth of stock. He was married in 1863, to Arabella Buck, a native of Wisconsin; has three children - Maxwell K., Sallie B., Sabilla M. Has held the office of School Director two terms. Mr. Kennedy is one of the financially solid men of the community ; his personal and real estate aggregating not less than $40,000.

near the river Rhine, March 7, 1827; he emigrated to America in 1848, and first settled in Butler Co., Ohio ; soon after coming, he struck a job of harvesting at 25 cents per day ; he was thus employed fourteen days, working hard and living high on side-meat, cucumbers, molasses and biscuit ; this was served out faithfully every day without change ; he soon after engaged to work at his trade for a Mr. Fisher at $6 per month ; but Fisher failed after some six or eight months, and he lost all his wages : this financial disaster left him $16 in debt for a suit of clothes contracted : however, he soon found employment and cleared off the debt; in October, 1853, he came to Danvers, where he at present resides ; at that time, Bloomington was but a village, adorned by only two brick houses ; the surrounding country was but sparsely settled ; after buying his lots, erecting his house and shop, and laying in a small supply of material, he had but 1 cent left. He was married in 1853 to Melinda Erisman, a native of Hesse, Germany ; eight children have been born to them - Henry, William, John, Henry, Frederick, Louis, Charles, Mary ; these are all living excepting the first son named Henry. He has held the office of Road Commissioner one or two terms.

---HENRY NAFZIGER, farmer; P. 0. Danvers ; was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, A. D. 1832. His early life was that of a farmer's son, and his education was obtained at the common schools. In 1847, the family emigrated to America, his father settling in McLean Co., a short distance southwest of Danvers, on the farm now owned and occupied by his son. On reaching his majority, Henry left home, and labored as a farm-hand some two years. He then rented the homestead, and began farming for himself. In 1865, he purchased the homestead, containing 200 acres, and this he has increased by successive purchases, until he now owns 350 acres, valued at $18,000. He was married, in 1855, to Helen Nafziger, a native of Germany ; has six children - Robert, Erurua, John, Fred, Albert, Jacob ; three deceased. Has held the office of Commissioner of Highways nine years, and that of School Director for the past eight years. His finely-improved farm exhibits the industry and enterprise so frequently noticed among that class of our foreign population.

^H. PARKHURST, physician and druggist, Danvers ; was born in Windsor Co., Vt., A. D. 1823. His early life was passed upon the farm, with such experiences as are common to farmers' boys. In addition to his common-school education, he was preparing for college at Phillips Academy, Andover, Mass., but did not enter college. In 1847, he began the study of medicine, and attended his first course at Pittsfield, Mass. ; his second at Woodstock, Vt., and, in 1851, graduated at Buffalo Medical University. Prior to graduating, he practiced some two years in Otsego, Mich., and, soon after completing his studies, located in Prairieville. Here he remained till July, 1853, when he located in Danvers, his present residence. In addition to his extensive practice, he owns and operates the only drug store in the village.' He was married, Jan. 1, 1854, to C. L. Skillman, a native of New Jersey. Three children have been born to them ; none are now living. By his own personal exertions, he has accumulated a competency, and is the leading practitioner of the community.

WILLIAM PAUL, farmer and stock-dealer; P. 0. Danvers; was born in Knox Co., Ohio, April 29, 1827. He is the son of James and Sarah (Bain) Paul. He was reared a farmer's son, and secured his education at the common schools. When 19 years of age, he began life for himself as a farmer. In 1851, he came to Illinois. In company with Harrison and Hughes, he bought 1,600 head of sheep, Mr. Paul owning one-third interest in the flock. In the fall of 1852, he purchased 240 acres in Dry Grove Township. This he improved and resided upon until 1856. In 1858, he purchased 116 acres of his present homestead. He now owns 325 acres in Danvers Township, and an undivided half-interest in 238 acres in Allin Township. In April, 1858, he went to Texas, and sojourned in that State till March, 1861. He was first married, in 1846, to Elizabeth A. Bell, a native of Ohio. She died in March, 1847. His second marriage occurred in October, 1861, to M. L. Harrison, of Ohio. Had one child from first marriage. From second wedlock, three children - Mary B., Nannie E., Sadie R. Has held the office of Road Commissioner and that of School Director. He deals quite largely in cattle and hogs. For a number of years, he devoted himself largely to the rearing and improving of sheep.

JOHN PERRY, farmer and stock-dealer; P. 0. Danvers ; was born in Jessamine Co., Ky., Nov. 13, 1825. His early life was passed upon the farm, and his education was limited to a a short attendance upon the common schools. His father came West to Illinois in 1836, and settled in what is now Dry Grove Township. John remained at home till he was 20 years of age, when he started in life for himself. He began working as a farm-hand at $10 per month, but soon rented and farmed for himself. In 1849, he purchased his first land, 160 acres, the southeast quarter of Sec. 36, Danvers Township ; here he made his farm and has since resided : this he has since increased by successive purchases, until he now owns 1,300 acres, valued at $70,000. He was married, in 1850. to Susanna Hiate, a native of Illinois ; she died in April, 1870. He was again married, in 1872, to Mrs. Sarah M. Bethel, a native of Illinois ; eight children were born from first wedlock, five daughters and three sons ; from second marriage, he has three daughters. He deals quite extensively in horses, cattle and hogs, and very largely in sheep of a high grade, fle has not sought political distinction, but has avoided office-holding. Has been School Director a number of terms.

SAMUEL PERRY, farmer and stock-dealer; P. 0. Danvers ; was born in Jessamine Co., Ky., April 24, 1834; he is the son of John and Charity (Hayes) Perry. In 1836, his father came West to Illinois, and settled in McLean Co. Here, Samuel grew to manhood, with such experiences as are common to a farmer's son ; his education was limited to the common schools. He remained at home until he reached his majorty, when he engaged to work for an older brother, at $20 per month. He has devote! his entire life, so far, to agricultural pursuits. He was married, in November, 1863, to Rebecca Hiatt, a native of Illinois ; two children have been born to them, but death has deprived them of both. He owns 220 acres of land in Danvers and Dry Grove Townships, valued at $11,000. He handles considerable stock, in the way of cattle and hogs. Mr. Terry has never been an aspirant for official honors, and though once elected to office, paid his fine rather than serve. He is noted for his strict integrity and uprightness of life, and for his fair and honorable dealing with all men.

- - JOHN S. POPPLE, hirdware merchant and insurance agent, Danvers ; was born in Boston, England, Jan. 24, 1841. He emigrated with his parents to America in August, 1851, the family first settling in Oswego, N. Y. His father, Samuel Popple, was a minister of the Methodist Church, and died in Watertown, N. Y., in 1855. John S. attended school in Oswego, and secured to himself a good English education. The family came to Bloomington, 111., and in 1860, to Danvers. During the residence of the family in Bloomington, John worked in the Eagle Mills, and, on coming to Danvers, followed milling ten years in the Danvers Mills. In 1870, he went to Chicago and was a student in Prof. Palmer's Musical Academy two sessions, and, for five years, devoted himself to teaching both vocal and instrumental music. In 1875, ia connection with his brother, M. Luther Popple, he bought the hardware stock of William Estes, in Danvers, and the firm of Popple Bros., was established. They conduct the only hardware establishment in the village. He was married June 4, 1868, to Jennie E. Franks, a native of Danvers, 111. ; has one child - Edwin G. He is agent for the ^Etna, Underwriters,' Hartford, Phoenix and Rockford Insurance Companies ; also, Secretary of the Danvers Mutual Insurance Company, and the Rock Creek Fair Association.

ED. L. PRICE, farmer and grain dealer ; P.O. Lilly, Tazewell Co.; was born in Urbana, Ohio, April 15, 1844. He is the son of Rev. Hugh R. and Ann (Thomas) Price. His father is a native of Wales, and a minister of the Presbyterian Church. Ed. L. spent his early life in attendance upon the schools of his native city. In 1859, the family moved to Bloomington, McLean Co., 111.; here his father was Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church about seven years ; here E. L. attended the public schools, and, later, was a student in the model department of the State Normal School. In 1862, he enlisted in Co. F, 68th Regt. I. V. I. and was in the service five months. In 1864, he re-enlisted in Co. B, 145th Regt. I. V. I., and remained in the service till the close of the war. On his return from the war, he engaged with Krum & Robinson, of Bloomington, in purchasing grain, and as foreman in the lumber yard. In the fall of 1872, he moved to his farm in Danvers Township, and engaged in farming four years. In the fall of 1876, he formed a copartnership with I. R. Krum, under the firm name of Krum & Price, for the purchasing of grain and the sale of lumber, at Lilly, Tazewell Co. This, in connection with farming, he has since conducted. He was married in 1868 to Emma M. Mitchell, a native of Illinois ; has two children - Helen L., Hugh M. Owns 120 acres valued at $6,000 ; also one-half interest in the business at Lilly.

R. ROBINSON, contractor and builder, Danvers; was born in Shelby Co., Ohio, Oct. 30, 1832; his early life was that of a farmer's son, and his education was obtained at the common schools ; he remained at home till 25 years of age, engaged in farming the homestead. In 1859, he went to Gentry Co., Mo., where he purchased a farm of forty acres, but, owing to the exigencies of the war, remained but a short time ; leaving Missouri, he came to Danvers, McLean Co., 111., and soon after coming engaged in carpentering with P. W. Rhodecap ; he continued as "jour" workman some eight or nine years; he then engaged in contracting and building on his own responsibility. He was married in 1854 to Sarah E. Cory, a native of Ohio ; has three children - Cory E., Frank L., Hattie Jean. Still owns his land in Missouri, and the best city property in the village of Danvers ; his property has been accumulated by his own personal exertions. He is the son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Sturm) Robinson ; his father was one of the early settlers of Shelby Co., Ohio, having settled there when the surrounding country was one unbroken wilderness. IRA ROWELL, farmer ; P. 0. Danvers ; was born in Haverhill, N. H., May 20, 1831 ; his

''youth and early manhood was passed upon the farm ; his education was confined to the common schools, and was somewhat limited even in that respect. By an extended course of reading, however, he has accumulated a vast fund of knowledge, and but few men are more thoroughly posted in ancient and modern history than Mr. Rowell. In 1849, the family came to Illinois, and settled in Dry Grove Township, McLean Co. At the age of 18 years, he began life for himself On the death of his father, he returned to (he old homestead, and cared for his widowed mother and the younger members of the family. He built his present residence in the spring of 1854 and it became at once headquarters for the family. He was married Nov. 10, 1869, to Lavinia Carlock, a native of Woodford Co., 111.; she is the daughter of Abraham W. Carlock, familiarly known as the " Old Democrat ; three daughters bless and enliven their household - Lilly E., Laura B., Lulu J. Owns 120 acres valued at $7,200. Has held the office of School Trustee for the past twelve years ; also those of Road Commissioner and School Director, each a number of terms.

S* - C. C. ROWELL, merchant, Danvers ; was born in Haverhill, Grafton Co., N. H., Dec. 11, 1836 ; his early life was passed upon the farm ; at the age of six, ha went to live with an uncle, and remained with him until he was 14 years of age ; in the summer of 1849, he came with the family to Illinois, his father settling on the east side of Dry Grove, on what is now known as the John McCullough farm ; about two years after coming, his father died, and he, with his brothers, first sought to procure a home for their widowed mother ; in 1854, he began life for himself, working as a farm-hand for I. D. Janes, at $12.50 per month ; so faithful was he in the discharge of his duties, that at the close of the year Mr. Janes rewarded him with pay at $15 per month instead of $12.50 ; he next went to Iowa and spent some months clerking in a store ; returning to Danvers, he entered the employ of Ira Abbott, and clerked for him two years, not losing a day. In the spring of 1861, he was married to Margaret Rayburn, a native of Danvers, 111.; after marriage, he farmed two years, and then became a partner with George Bunn in the grocery trade; at the close of one year, his brother Frank bought out Bunn's interest, and the firm of C. C. Rowell & Co. was established ; in 1876, Seymour Case became his partner, and two years later, G. L. Johnson. Has three children - Katie, William S., Charles C, Jr. Has held the office of Commissioner of Highways three years, School Treasurer four years, City Clerk two years.

THOMAS H. SHORTHOSE, farmer and stock-dealer ; P. 0. Danvers ; was born in Staffordshire, England, A. D. 1818; his early life was passed upon the farm, and his education derived from the common schools ; in 1849, he, with his brothers John L. and Herbert, emigrated to America and first settled near Zanesville, Ohio, and engaged in farming; in the spring of 1852, he came West to Illinois, and was a resident of the village of Danvers about six months ; in the fall of 1852, he purchased 136 acres of land about two and three-fourths miles southwest of the village ; here he has since resided, engaged in agricultural pursuits and the rearing of stock ; he at present owns 451 acres in McLean Co., finely improved, valued at $25,000; also 245 acres in Jasper Co., Mo. He was married, in 1852, to Rosanna Frazier, a native of Virginia ; she died in October, 1876; four children were the fruits of this union - Ann E, Emma, William, Bessie J.; of these, Ann E. and Bessie J. are deceased. He has held the office of Road Commissioner and School Director a number of terms. He deals quite extensively in fine cattle and a high grade of hogs ; he has been very successful as a farmer, and through industry and energy has accumulated a large competency.

JOHN SLOAN, Roadmaster I. B. & W. R. R.; was born in Neury, County Down, Ireland, in December, 1840; his parents emigrated to America in 1842, and first settled in Canada; in 1852, the family came to Joliet, Will Co., 111.; after a residence of about twenty years, his parents moved to Pekin, Tazewell Co., where they at present reside ; he obtained his education at the common schools and has spent the greater portion of his life actively engaged in railroading; during the years 1862, 1863, 1864 and 1865, he was engaged in boating on the I. & M. Canal ; in 1872, he was first appointed Roadmaster of the I., B. & W. R. R., but by a subsequent change in the officers of the road, lost his position ; he was re-appointed in 1878, and still holds the position ; in 1871, he moved to Danvers, where he has since resided. He was married in November, 1870, to Elizabeth Henry, a native of McLean Co.; has three children - Mary E., Bertha E., Theresa A. Has been a member of the Board of Village Trustees for the past six years, and is also a member of the present Board.

JOSEPH STUCKEY, minister; P. O. Danvers; was born in Alsace, France, July, A. D. 1825; he was raised upon a farm, and his education was limited to the common schools. In 1830, his parents emigrated to America, and settled in Butler Co., Ohio; here he grew to manhood ; in 1850, he came West, to Illinois, and, purchasing some two hundred acres of land in Danvers Township, McLean Co., settled, and began the labor of opening up a farm; here he remained until 1876, when he removed to the village of Danvers, where he now resides. Im 1860, under a sense of duty, he began the study of the Holy Scriptures, with a view to entering upon the work of the ministry ; in 1865, he entered regularly upon the work in which he has since been engaged ; he is a minister of far more than ordinary ability, and is Pastor of a large and influential Mennonite Church, some three miles north of Danvers, as well as of other churches in this and adjoining counties. He was married, Dec. 23, 1844, to Barbara Roth, born near Paris, France; has two children - Phoebe and Christian R. Owns 200 acres, valued at $6,000, besides village property and an interest in a boot and shoe store in Danvers, conducted by his son. Has held the office of School Director ten years, and that of Road Commis sioner six years.

/T CHRISTIAN STRUBHAR, farmer; P. 0 Danvers; was born in Danvers Township, McLean Co., 111., June 13, 1844; his father, John Strubhar, emigrated from France and settled in Danvers Township as early as 1839. He obtained a fair education at the common schools, and spent his early life upon his father's farm. At his majority, he began life for himself, farming land rented of his father j in 1874, he purchased forty acres of his present farm ; this he has since increased to one hundred and sixty. He was married Feb. 22, 1866, to Magdalena Ebrismaun, a native of Illinois ; has two children - Samuel, Lydia. Has held the offices of School Director, Commissioner of Highways, and at present holds the office of School Trustee for Danvers Township. His finely-improved farm bespeaks for him a thrift and enterprise which is characteristic of our best class of well-to-do farmers.

C. J. WHEELER, miller; P. 0. Danvers; was born in Salem, Rockingham Co., N. H., Nov. 15, 1828; he is the son of Abitha and Mary E. (Gordon) Wheeler; his early life was that of a farmer's son, and his education was limited to an attendance upon the common schools In 1837, he came, with the family, to Illinois, his father locating near the present village of Danvers ; four years after coming, the father died, and young Wheeler, the oldest son, labored for the support of his widowed mother and the rest of the family. At the age of 18 years, he went out from home and engaged in labor as a farm-hand, at $8 per month ; he followed farming in this manner until he reached the age of 28 years. In 1866, he purchased forty acres of land and engaged in improving it. In 1869, he traded his land for one-half interest in the Danvers

Mills, now owned by Wheeler & Fanson. He was married in 1858, to Jane A. Boggs, a native of Illinois; has six children - Helen E., Frank, Harvey, Lizzie, Earl, Ora. Mr. Wheeler has never aspired to office, and has held only that of Roadmaster.

CORODON W1NSLOW, retired farmer; P. 0. Danvers ; was born in Rutland Co., Vt., July 1, 1817 ; he lost his mother when but 10 years of age, and his father two year* later. His father was a man addicted to the use of strong drink, and left, at his death, to his seven orphaned boys the patrimony of a beggar. After the death of the parents, the family was scattered about in such homes as each could procure for himself. His education was, as a matter of course,- very limited ; Mr. Winslow set about life with a determination to make the most out of it that was possible ; by industry and hard labor, he accumulated about $700 when he reached the age of 23 years ; in 1840, he came to Hartford, Licking Co., Ohio; here he purchased 100 acres of land and engaged in farming; hard times setting in upon him, he lost most of the money invested, as he could not meet the deferred payments as they fell due, and was obliged to give up his purchase ; in 1851, he came to Illinois, and, in 1852, he pre-empted the quarter-section now owned by him in Danvers Township ; this he improved and cultivated till April, 1874, when he built himself a residence and moved to the village of Danvers. He was married, in 1843, to Sarah Ann Wheaton, a native of New Jersey ; has had six children - Corintha A., William F., Mary E., living ; two daughters and one son died in infancy. Has held the office of Road Commissioner and School Director. He owns 160 acres, worth .18,000, and has ready money besides. - - PROF. JOHN P. YODER, Principal of Schools, Danvers; was born iu Juniata Co., Va., Sept. 4, 1845 ; he is the son of Elias and Lydia (Plank) Yoder. In 1848, the family came West to Illinois, and first settled in Woodford Co.; in 1850, his father moved into McLean Co., near Brown's Grove. Here young Yoder spent his early life upon the farm, and secured to himself a good English education at the common schools ; during his minority, he learned the carpenter's trade under the instruction of his father ; this he followed at different periods in life. Feb. 3, 1865, he enlisted in the United States service as a private in Co. A, 150th Regt. I. V. I., and served till January, 1866. In 1867, he entered the State Normal University at Normal, from which he graduated in 1871 ; during his attendance, he taught the winters of 1868, 1869 and 1870 in Danvers Township ; after completing the course, he became Principal of the Blue Island Schools, remaining one year ; the winter of 1873-74, he taught a session in Dry Grove Township ; in the fall of 1875, he was chosen Principal of the Danvers Schools, a position he still holds. Under his supervision, a course of study has been arranged, the schools graded, and the first class graduated April 9, 1879. He was married Dec. 28, 1875, to Rebecca Lautz, a native of Illinois ; has two children - Lydia J. and Arthur E. He is at present a member of the Board of Village Trustees, and a Director of the Danvers Library and Literary Association. Prof. Yoder has proved himself a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, both at the bench and in the schoolroom.

JOHN W. ABBOTT, farmer and stock-raiser ; P. 0. Lexington ; the subject of this sketch was born in Culpeper Co., Va., Nov. 18, 1830 ; came to Licking Co., Ohio, with his parents in 1831, and, in 1852, he came to McLean Co., 111., where he has since resided; has been a resident of Lawndale Township for thirteen years, and owns a beautiful farm in the township, which comprises 108 acres, all of which is under a good state of cultivation. Mr. Abbott has held the offices of Township Clerk, Assessor and Commissioner of Highways. His union with Melinda White was celebrated Sept. 4, 1856 ; Mrs. Abbott was born in Tippecanoe Co., Ind., March 24, 1834 ; from this union there are nine children, all of whom are living, viz., Mary T., James C, Charles E., Elmer E., Julia A., Eliza E., Judson A., Lena M. and a babe, two weeks old. Mr. Abbott is son of A. and E. Abbott, both of whom are living in Towanda Township; they celebrated their golden wedding April 9, 1879 ; there were present nearly one hundred friends and relatives ; there were eight children, thirteen grandchildren and one great-grandchild present. The old people bid fair to live many years yet.

MARTIN BATTERTON, farmer and stock-raiser, Sec. 32 ; P. 0. Lexington ; one of the pioneers of Lawndale Township; born in Madison Co., Ky., Sept. 29, 1857; son of Abraham and Susanna Batterton, who came to Madison Co., Ky., during the Revolutionary war in 1783. Martin Batterton came to this township in January, 1834, and is now living upon the land the improvements of which he bought at that date; when he located here, there were only five families living in what is now Lawndale Township ; he and his wife are now the oldest residents of the township ; assisted in the organization of the same, and held offices of trust soon after. He was united in marriage with America Taylor Oct. 10, 1836 ; three children were the fruit of this union, of whom two are now living - Mrs. T. B. Kilgore, whose sketch appears in this work, and Mrs. A. J. Moon, now living in Lexington, this county ; their only son, Ira A. Batterton, was assassinated in Vicksburg because he was a Union man, and nobly and fearlessly expressed his Union principles through the columns of the Vicksburg Herald, which at that time was ably edited by him. He served in Co. K, 8th I. V. I , until he was mustered out of service to accept the position of Adjutant. After the fall of Vicksburg, he started the above paper, which was the cause of his death, upon July 14, 1865. Mr. Batterton owns 280 acre3 of land, free from incumbrance and under a good state of improvement ; the above property being accumulated by his own hard labor, industry and economy, in which he has been nobly assisted by his amiable wife.

CYRUS H. BENSON, farmer and stock-raiser, Sec. 22 ; P. 0. Potosi. The subject of this sketch is one of the leading and prominent men of Lawndale Township ; was born in McLean Co., 111., Sept. 16, 1835 ; has been a resident of Lawndale Township ten years ; he has held the offices of Supervisor, Assessor and Commissioner of Highways, in all of which he faithfully discharged his duty. He was united in marriage with Lucy A. Rowell June 8, 1864 ; there were two children from this union - Edward M. and Lucy A. Served three years in the war of the rebellion; enlisted Sept. 1, 1861, and was discharged Sept. 1, 1864; was in the engagements of Fort Donelson, Shiloh, Vicksburg, and a number of lesser engagements. Mr. Benson was again married March 16, 1871, to Mary E. Denm^n, whose father now lives in White Oak Township, and who has been a resident of McLean Co. for over fifty years ; from this union, there are four children - Arthur D., Mary, James R. and Roy, all of whom are living. Mr. Benson owns 160 acres of land, which is nicely improved.

JAMES P. BENSON, farmer and stock -raiser, Sec. 36 ; P. 0. Potosi ; one of the enterprising young farmers of Lawndale Township, and son of James and Pollie A. Benson, who came to McLean Co. at an early day. The subject of this sketch was born in McLean Co., 111., Aug. 21, 1847 ; owns eighty acres of well improved land, which he has made by his own exertions. Mr. Benson is a single man, and one of the reading men of the township ; has a well-selected library, which he has bought from time to time, as his means would permit.