McLean County, Illinois - Chapter 35: Miscellaneous, Continued, 1924 (part 6 of 8)

George W. Parke was a native of Chester County, Pa., and was born in the year 1815. He remained a resident of his native place until he had grown to man's estate and had received his elemental education. His first trip to the west was in 1837, and he stayed in this part of the country for three years, after which he returned to the east. In 1851 he again came to Bloomington and at that time he embarked in the lumber business and the manufacture of furniture. His furniture factory grew to considerable proportions and its business flourished, but a fire which destroyed the plant proved to be a great calamity both to its owner and to the city. Bloomington was at that time growing rapidly, and Mr. Parke's trade in lumber increased to prosperous proportion. He built a large number of houses to provide for the increasing population, and many of these remain to this day as evidence of his honesty of workmanship and the good quality of the materials which he used. He built the first three story structure ever erected on the west side of the public square. Kersey Fell had donated the ground for any one who would erect a threestory brick building, and Mr. Parke accepted the offer. For about ten years Mr. Parke engaged in the grocery and provision business, in which he also prospered. He sold out this line of business in 1865 and retired from active commercial pursuits. However, he became one of the principal stockholders and an officer in the People's Bank, which he assisted in founding. He was one of the bank's directors for many years, and spent most of his time in the offices there during the later years of his life.

A brother of George W. Parke, and another man identified with the history of Bloomington as a professional man was the late Dr. Charles R. Parke, who practiced his profession in the county seat for a half century. Dr. Parke, like his brother, was a native of Chester County, Pa., and was born on June 26, 1825. The brothers were sons of George W. and Mary

(Ross) Parke, who had both been born in Chester County. The father of these two brothers died in 1860 and the mother in 1866. Dr. Parke was the seventh child of his parents, and he remained at home until he was 18 years of age. He had received his rudimentary education and at this age he entered Hoops Academy. He began the study of medicine in 1844 and received his degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 1847. He commenced the practice of his profession in Delaware County, Pa., and in 1849 he made a trip overland to California as physician for the Como Emigrant Company. In the winter of 1850-51 he returned to Illinois by way of Nicaragua, long before the Panama Canal had been dreamed of. He located in Bloomington and practiced his profession here from 1852 to 1855. In the latter year he went to Russia as surgeon in the Russian army during the Crimean war. After the conclusion of peace he traveled in Europe, visiting many hospitals and gaining added skill along professional lines. In the fall of 1857 Dr. Parke returned and again located in Bloomington to resume practice. From the year 1869 to 1873, owing to his wife's failing health, he went south to Arkansas and engaged in cotton growing. He then returned to Bloomington for the third time and continued in active practice until his final retirement. He spent his declining years with his daughter at Louisville, where he died. Dr. Parke's wife had formerly been Mrs. Lucy Keith, and they were married in Winchester, Ky., on Oct. 5, 1865. Mrs. Parke preceded her husband in death. Dr. Parke was largely instrumental in founding of St. Joseph's hospital in Bloomington, and was for many years the head of the surgical staff of the institution.

J. W. Prather, a well known locomotive engineer with the Chicago & Alton Railroad at Bloomington, is a native of Indiana. He was born Aug. 18, 1865, and is the son of John C. and Elizabeth (Spurgeon) Prather.

John C. Prather was an early settler of McLean County and owned 320 acres of land. He served throughout the Civil War and died in 1904. His wife died in 1918. They were the parents of four children, as follows: Mary, the widow of Albert Hill, lives in Indiana; Martha, married W. H. Whitlach, lives in Indiana; Anna, married D. H. Combs, a retired farmer, lives in Jackson County, Ind. ; and J. W., the subject of this sketch.

J. W. Prather received his education in the schools of Indiana and started railroading at an early age with the Pennsylvania Railroad. After four years he entered the employ of the Wabash Railroad and later in 1905 became an engineer on the Chicago & Alton Railroad, and is now located in Bloomington. He owns his home at 606i/£ North Madison Street.

Mr. Prather was united in marriage with Miss Jessie Sparks, a native of Jackson County, Ind., born Oct. 5, 1866, and the daughter of John and Grizella (Baldwin) Sparks, natives of Pennsylvania and early settlers of Indiana. Mr. Sparks died April 6, 1918, and his wife died in 1883. They were the parents of nine children, as follows: one child died in infancy; Charlotte, married Martin Davis, both deceased; William B., a farmer, lives in Indiana; Virginia, married Ralph Murray, a retired farmer, lives at Columbus, Ind. ; Missouri, married Isaac Jackson, a retired farmer, lives in Indiana; Mrs. Prather; Minnie, married Frank Swingle; and May, married Ollie Haskett, deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Prather two children have been born; George, born Nov. 5, 1889, lives at home; and Leonard, born May 22, 1894, lives in Michigan. He served throughout the World war and on Dec. 15, 1919, was married to Miss Lucy Washburn, a native of Bloomington. They have two children, Constance Ann, born Sept. 7, 1920, and George Richard, born April 22, 1922.

George Prather is studying commercial art and has already done some excellent work. He is a graduate of the Meyer Bath School, Art Department, Chicago, 111.

J. W. Prather is a Republican and a member of the Christian Church. He is a competent man and is highly esteemed for his integrity and industry. He is a member of Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers, Division No. 19.

B. W. Steele, a substantial citizen of Bloomington, was born in North Carolina, July 18, 1883, and is the son of Thomas Benjamin and Eliza Caroline (Mills) Steele.

Thomas Benjamin Steele, now living retired in North Carolina, is a veteran of the Civil war. He was too young to enlist for service, but took his father's place in the army for a short time. He followed farming for many years and was a successful tobacco raiser. He is a Republican and a member of the Presbyterian Church. Mrs. Steele died several years ago. They were the parents of the following children : Mollie, deceased, was the wife of T. J. Adkins; Grace A., lives in South Carolina; H. T., lives in North Carolina; Bessie, the widow of T. E. Renshaw; Barney, deceased; D. N., lives in North Carolina; B. W., the subject of this sketch; Katie, high school teacher in North Carolina, and Sudie, married Dr. M. L. Troutman, lives in North Carolina.

B. W. Steele attended the public schools of North Carolina and engaged in the furniture business when a young man. In 1909 he came to Illinois and settled in Bloomington, where he entered the employ of the Chicago & Alton Railroad. Mr. Steele is now a conductor on the road and lives at 1201 North Oak Street.

On March 14, 1907, Mr. Steele was united in marriage with Miss Mary V. Eagle, a native of North Carolina, born July 27, 1884, and the daughter of W. S. and Mary (Barnsley) Eagle. Mr. Eagle, a Civil war veteran, now lives retired in North Carolina. His wife died Feb. 1, 1916. They were the parents of the following children: Anna, lives in North Carolina; William, lives in Texas; Elizabeth, the widow of Henry S. King., lives in North Carolina; George F., lives in North Carolina; Zeb, deceased; Myrtle, married Bell White, lives in North Carolina; Mrs. Steele, and Raymond, lives in North Carolina. Mr. and Mrs. Steele have an adopted son, Leon Oliver, who was born in 1915.

In politics Mr. Steele is identified with the Democratic party and he is a member of the United Brethren Church. His wife teaches Sunday school at the same church. Mr. and Mrs. Steele have many friends in Bloomington and are highly esteemed.

Logan McClurg, one of the well known conductors on the Chicago & Alton Railroad, is a native of McLean County. He was born at LeRoy, April 18, 1886, and is a son of Oliver Perry and Martha Ellen (Wheeler) McClurg.

Oliver Perry McClurg was an early settler of LeRoy, having come to McLean County from Ohio, where he was born. He served throughout the Civil war and died Feb. 13, 1913. His wife resides at LeRoy and is 72 years of age. There were seven children in the McClurg family, as follows: Nellie, married C. L. Yeo, lives in Bloomington; Pearl, lives at Clinton, 111. ; Sheldon, deceased ; Edith, married C. A. Martin, lives in

Logan McClurg attended the public schools of LeRoy. He then entered the employ of the Chicago & Alton Railroad as brakeman and in 1910 was promoted to freight conductor.

On Dec. 25, 1909, Mr. McClurg was married to Miss Stella Grace Fagerburg, who was born near Chicago, Jan. 9, 1890, the daughter of A. P. and Cora (Kemp) Fagerburg. Mr. and Mrs. Fagerburg, who now live retired in Chicago, have the following children: Leona, married A. P. Martin, lives in Bloomington; Leslie and Mabel, deceased; Alfred, lives in Bloomington; Josephine, married Roy Boden, lives in Bloomington; Rev. Frank, Baptist minister, lives at Springfield, Mass., and Goldie, married Warren Lines, lives in Bloomington. To Mr. and Mrs. McClurg two children have been born: Godfrey, born Oct. 17, 1911, and Wallace, born April 24, 1920.

Dr. William Hill. - No record of McLean County would be complete for any period' without an adequate reference to the life and work of Dr. William Hill, one of the great surgeons of his day, a citizen always alive to public interest, and a man of broad information and patriotic impulses. Not alone in professional life, but also in civic and governmental activities he impressed his personality upon his generation and the after generations.

Dr. Hill was a native of Butler County, Ohio, where he was born March 12, 1829. After attaining his young manhood he read medicine in the office of Dr. J. W. Merritt at Indianapolis, and during the winters of 1849, '51, '52 and '53 he attended lectures at LaPorte, Ind., and at Ann Arbor, Mich. Finally he graduated from and received his degree from Jefferson Medical College at Philadelphia, in 1856. He first practiced at Middletown, Ind., and then went to Louisville, 111. In 1856 he located at Salem, 111., where he practiced ten years, minus the time when he was a surgeon in the army during the Civil War. It was while he was in Salem, 111., that he was called upon to serve professionally at the birth of William Jennings Bryan, who became one of the greatest orators and statesmen this country ever knew, and who was three times candidate for president. Dr. Hill recalled with interest this episode of his life at the time when Mr. Bryan first became prominent in the public eye.

The marriage of Dr. Hill to Miss Frances Roache, who was born in Charlotte County, Va., and a member of the "first families of Virginia," and a resident of Salem, 111., took place in St. Louis, where the bride was visiting with a sister, on Nov. 2, 1856. Mrs. Hill survives and is one of the most esteemed and gracious of the elderly ladies of Bloomington. There were three children, one of whom, a son, died at the age of ten years. The surviving daughters are Mrs. Philip Elkins of Washington, D. C, and Mrs. Arthur L. Pillsbury, wife of a well-known architect of Bloomington.

At the close of the Civil War, Dr. Hill and his family came to Bloomington and located, and from that time to the day of his death, March 1, 1906, the doctor was one of the leading and estimable citizens of McLean County. He established his office in what was known as the Hill block, at Front and East streets, just across the street from old Major's Hall, where Abraham Lincoln had made his "lost speech" in 1856. He built a home, one of the majestic houses of the city in his day, just at the foot of East Street and two blocks from his office, at a site which commanded a view of this well-known street. The doctor lived in this home to his death, and the house is still the residence of his widow and of Mr. and Mrs. Pillsbury and their daughter, Frances, who was named for her grandmother.

No one who knew Dr. Hill in life can forget his striking personality, his genial disposition, his ready wit and vigorous manner of expression. Tall and well formed, he was a man who would attract attention in any assemblage. Courteous and cordial, yet frank and open in all his dealings. In politics he was a Democrat, and he didn't care who knew it. He always stood up for his party, and at times when such action was not only a subject of dispute with his neighbors, but even of danger to his personal safety or business prosperity. He never winced in his honesty of opinion on all political issues. He was elected a term in the Legislature, where he made a valued member of the house. In his profession he was eminently successful, ranking along with the best surgeons of his day in Bloomington or elsewhere.

Under President Grover Cleveland, Dr. Hill was appointed as U. S. consul at Port Sarnia, Canada, but he held the office only a few months owing to ill health. In 1902, Dr. Hill retired, and lived quietly from that time to the year of his death.

John S. Ball, one of the dependable and loyal firemen and engineers connected with the Chicago & Alton Railroad, was born in Mason County, W. Va., Feb. 25, 1889, and is the son of Andrew and Martha (Scarbearry) Ball.

Andrew Ball, a native of Virginia, came to Bloomington in 1900. Previous to that time he had followed farming and stock raising in Virginia. He and his wife now live retired at 906 West Mulberry Street. They are the parents of eight children, as follows : Thomas, lives in Bloomington; James, deceased; John, the subject of this sketch; Mary; Christina, married L. Prahm, lives in Bloomington ; Eva, married Harry Prahm, lives in Bloomington; Lewis, also a resident of Bloomington; and Anna May, at home with her parents.

John S. Ball attended the public schools and began life as a painter and decorator. In 1908 he entered the employ of the Chicago & Alton Railroad in Bloomington, as a fireman, and was made engineer in 1916. Mr. Ball is now firing one of the fast mail trains out of Bloomington. Before he became interested in railroading, Mr. Ball was with the 101 Ranch at Miller, Okla., and later joined Hagenback Circus for two seasons as a rough rider.

On Sept. 15, 1910, Mr. Ball was married to Miss George May Clark, a native of Benton City, Mo., born Jan. 1, 1891. She died Feb. 6, 1919, leaving one child, John Edgar, who was born Feb. 23, 1916. On June 10, 1920, Mr. Ball was married to Mrs. Sophia (Pochalski) Stine, a native of Berlin, Germany, born July 18, 1891, and the daughter of August and Bertha (Heckert) Pochalski, natives of Germany. The Pochalski family came to the United States in 1909 and settled at Minear, 111. Mr. Pochalski lives at 518 East Locust Street, Bloomington. His wife died June 8, 1919. There were 12 children in the Pochalski family, as follows: Johanna, deceased ; William, lives in Bloomington ; Louise, mention of whom is made below; Mrs. Ball, by a former marriage to Joseph Stine, Mrs. Ball has one daughter Louise ; Carl, lives in Bloomington ; August, also a resident of Bloomington; Victoria, married Frank Snyder, lives at Detroit,

Louise Pochalski did Red Cross work in Germany during the World war and was severely wounded by shrapnel. She was later married to Paul Wendt, and they live in Berlin, Germany, where he owns and operates a piano factory. He also served with the German army during the war and received many decorations for his bravery.

Mr. Ball is a Republican, a member of the Baptist Church, and belongs to the Masonic Lodge. He is an excellent citizen and a trustworthy man in his work. Mr. Ball was firing on train No. 12 and was in a serious wreck at Joliet, 111., in 1917, when his engineer, Charles Conklin, was killed. Mr. Ball was severely scalded and burned and was not able to return to work for about a year.

Thomas Keogh brought his family to the United States from Ireland during the Civil war, locating in Bloomington where he entered the employ of the Chicago & Alton Railroad. Later he removed to Omaha, Neb., where he died in 1908. His wife died in 1893. They were the parents of seven children, as follows: John, deceased, was a prominent paving contractor of Bloomington ; Daniel, lives in Minnesota ; J. B., lives in Omaha, Neb.; Thomas F., mention of whom is made below; Timothy, deceased; Johanna, married J. Ryan, lives in Wyoming, and W., the subject of this sketch. Thomas F. Keogh, who now lives retired in Florida, served as chief of police of Bloomington under Mayor John Trotter's administration, and was a prominent citizen of Bloomington for many years.

W. Keogh spent the early part of his life in Colorado and started railroading in 1884. After firing for three years on the Missouri Pacific Railroad at Omaha, Neb., he entered the employ of the Chicago & Alton Railroad, at Bloomington, 111., as a brakeman. Mr. Keogh has been a conductor on this road since 1909.

On June 30, 1892, Mr. Keogh was married to Miss Anna Harrigan, who was born in Jacksonville, 111., Dec. 9, 1860, the daughter of John and Nora (Riley) Harrigan, natives of Ireland and early settlers of Illinois. They were the parents of the following children : Minnie, deceased ; Statia, the widow of John Butler, lives at Jacksonville, 111. ; Mrs. Keogh ; James, Cornelius and Nancy, who live at Jacksonville, 111. ; and Edward, deceased. Mr. Harrigan died in 1874 and his wife died in 1912. Mr. and Mrs. Keogh have two children: Neil, born June 30, 1893, lives at Detroit, Mich., and is a veteran of the World war; and Nora, born Dec. 20, 1895, now teaching school at Decatur, 111.

Noah W. Cline, a progressive and enterprising citizen of Normal, and well known conductor on the Chicago & Alton Railroad, is a native of Illinois. He was born in Menard County, 111., March 29, 1876, and is the son of Asa and Malissa (McClelland) Cline.

Noah W. Cline received his education in the public schools of Harper County, Kans., and Menard County, 111. He has been in the employ of the Chicago & Alton Railroad since 1900 and was promoted to conductor in 1905. The Cline residence is located at 211 North Street, Normal.

Mr. Cline was married on Nov. 20, 1901, to Miss Lina E. Glasscock, a native of Menard County, 111. To this union two children have been born, Fern G. and A. D. Cline.

William R. Miller, a progressive and enterprising citizen of Bloomington, in the employ of the Chicago & Alton Railroad as conductor, was born in that city, April 28, 1885. He is the son of Lewis H. and Sarah J. (Ewing) Miller.

Lewis H. Miller and his wife were natives of Pennsylvania and came to Bloomington in 1865, where Mr. Miller was employed by the Chicago & Alton Railroad as fireman. He was killed by a 'train on Sept. 28, 1906, and his wife died Jan. 11, 1914. They were the parents of the following children: Lewis H., deceased; Charles E., lives at Kankakee, 111.; Burt, lives at Kankakee, 111. ; May, deceased ; Lulu, lives in Indiana ; and William R., the subject of this sketch. Mr. Miller became master mechanic of the

William R. Miller received his education in the public schools of Kankakee, 111., and started life as a telegraph operator on the Chicago & Alton Railroad in 1900. In 1910 he was promoted to conductor, in which capacity he is now serving.

On March 5, 1906, Mr. Miller was married to Miss Pansy Lillian Gorbet, a native of Cornell, 111., and the daughter of Walter and Sarah (Plymer) Gorbet. Mr. Gorbet now lives retired. His wife died Nov. 20, 1913. They had five children, as follows: George, lives at Streator, 111.; Cora, married Peter Fertai, lives at Streator, 111.; Mrs. Miller; Samuel E., lives at Pontiac, 111. ; and Mamie, married Dalton McKinney, lives at Pontiac, 111. Mr. and Mrs. Miller have three children: Lewis H., born May 14, 1907; Marion Louise, born May 8, 1909; and Madeline May, born Feb. 9, 1911.

Mr. Miller is a Republican and a member of the Masonic lodge, Consistory and Shrine of Springfield, 111. He has been president of the Local Trainmen's Lodge for four years.

M. F. Ramage, a well known engineer on the Chicago & Alton Railroad, living in Bloomington, is a native of Illinois. He was born at Peoria, June 24, 1868, and is a son of David and Margaret (Ferrie) Ramage.

David Ramage was born in Scotland and came to the United States when he was a young man, locating at Peoria, 111. In 1873 he removed to Bloomington where he was employed by the Chicago & Alton Railroad as a carpenter. He died in 1897 and his wife, who is now 84 years of age, lives with her son, M. F. Ramage. There were ten children in the Ramage family: Anna, died in infancy; James, lives in Bloomington; Margaret, died in infancy ; Elizabeth, married W. P. Rhea, lives at Bloomington; M. F., the subject of this sketch; John, died in infancy; Thomas, lives in Bloomington ; Williams, who was killed in a wreck at Manchester, 111., while in the employ of the Chicago & Alton Railroad as fireman; David, lives at Waterloo, la. ; and Robert, a mechanical engineer lives at Milwaukee, Wis.

M. F. Ramage attended the public schools of Bloomington and in 1890 entered the employ of the Chicago & Alton Railroad as fireman, and seven years later was promoted to engineer. Mr. Ramage has served in this capacity continuously since that time, and is one of the competent and trustworthy men in the service.

On Nov. 27, 1889, Mr. Ramage was united in marriage with Miss Allie Pierson, who was born at Rising Sun, Ind., Feb. 5, 1869, the daughter of John and Anna (Lancaster) Pierson, natives of Kentucky and early settlers of Indiana. Mr. and Mrs. Pierson, deceased, were the parents of the following children : Emma, married S. W. Loustetter, lives in Chicago ; Richard, lives in Illinois; William, lives in Chicago; Elizabeth, deceased; and Mrs. Ramage. To Mr. and Mrs. Ramage three children have been born: Bessie, married Herman Kenaga, lives in Chicago; Harry, who served throughout the World war in the navy, and now lives in Chicago; and Edward, a machinist with the Chicago & Alton Railroad, lives in Bloomington. There are three grandchildren : Robert and Mary Catherine Kenaga, and Dorothy Alice Ramage.

J. E. Abbott is a substantial citizen of Bloomington and a well known conductor on the Chicago & Alton Railroad. He was born in Kentucky, Dec. 26, 1879, and is the son of John and Lucy (Martin) Abbott.

John Abbott was a native of Kentucky, as also was his wife. They lived on a farm in Pulaski County, Ky., for many years, and were successful farmers. Mr. Abbott died in 1923 and his wife died the year previous. He was a Republican and a life long member of the Baptist Church. There were nine children in the Abbott family, as follows: Harrison, deceased; Rev. George, a Baptist minister, lives in Kentucky; Calvin, lives in Kentucky ; Marion, lives at Normal, 111. ; William and Benjamin, live in Kentucky ; Jane, married G. S. Denny, lives in Kentucky ; Lena, married P. L. Barlow, lives in Kentucky; and J. E., the subject of this sketch.

J. E. Abbott attended the district schools of Kentucky and came to McLean County in 1899. The following year he went to Dewitt County. In 1907 Mr. Abbott came to Bloomington, where he entered the employ of the Chicago & Alton Railroad as brakeman. The following year he was promoted to conductor, in which capacity he is now serving.

In September, 1900, Mr. Abbott was united in marriage with Miss Mattie Babcock, a native of Kentucky, and the daughter of A. W. and Mary (Collier) Babcock, the former a native of Canada and the latter of Kentucky. Mr. Babcock came to the United States at the outbreak of the Civil war and enlisted at Detroit, Mich., in Colonel Smith's regiment, and was in service two years and in a number of important battles. After the close of the war Mr. Babcock settled in Kentucky, where he married and engaged in general farming. He died in 1920 and his wife died in 1898. They were the parents of four children: Reta, married A. R. Carney, lives in Kentucky; Josephine, married J. M. Meece, lives in Kentucky; Anna, married V. L. Meece, also a resident of Kentucky ; and Mrs. Abbott. To Mr. and Mrs. Abbott two children have been born: Beatrice, married H. K. Livingston, an employee of the Chicago & Alton Railroad, lives in Bloomington; and Blanche, a graduate of the Bloomington High School, resides at home.

Mr. Abbott belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Modern Woodmen of America, and the Order of Railway Conductors - and has been an official in that order ever since he has been a member and is now Assistant Chief Conductor.

Arthur Cunliffe, a well known locomotive engineer with the Chicago & Alton Railroad, was born in LaSalle County, 111., Feb. 25, 1878. He is a son of Henry and Benetta (Welshanse) Cunliffe.

Henry Cunliffe was born in LaSalle County, 111., and later brought his family to Livingston County. He followed farming for many years and died Oct. 30, 1917. His wife, a native of Harrisburg, Pa., lives with her children. They were the parents of four children : Nettie, married Frank Stearns, lives at Joliet, 111. ; Nellie, twin sister of Nettie, deceased ; Arthur, the subject of this sketch; and Jessie, married Francis Kennedy, lives at Pontiac, 111.

Arthur Cunliffe attended the district schools and followed farming for eight years. In 1913 he entered the employ of the Chicago & Alton Railroad as fireman and five years later was promoted to engineer.

On June 25, 1902, Mr. Cunliffe was married to Miss Beulah Wells, a native of LeRoy, 111., and the daughter of Andy and Mary (Garry) Wells, the former a native of Scotland and the latter of Ohio. Mr.

Wells lived retired at LeRoy, where he was engaged in business for many years. His wife died Aug. 5, 1897. They were the parents of nine children, as follows: Edward, died in infancy; Imo, married Edward Razor, lives at Peoria, 111. ; Cecile, married William Wright, lives at Urbana, 111.; Clay, deceased; Mrs. Cunliffe; Minor, lives at LeRoy; Audrey, deceased ; Alvoga, married John Bowen, lives at Odell, 111. ; Hazel, lives with her father. To Mr. and Mrs. Cunliffe five children have been born, as follows: Henrietta, born May 27, 1903, was graduated from high school in 1921 ; Pauline Dorothy, born Nov. 4, 1905, was graduated from high school in 1922; Bernice Estella, born Aug. 31, 1907; one child died in infancy; and Arthur, Jr., born April 6, 1911.

Mr. Cunliffe is a Democrat and a member of the Masonic Lodge. He and his family are members of the Methodist Church and are highly respected citizens of Bloomington.

Willis S. Harwood, president of the W. S. Harwood Lumber & Coal Company, is an enterprising and successful business man of Bloomington. He was born in Bloomington, Nov. 3, 1862, the son of Thomas Fitch and Marietta (Keys) Harwood.

Thomas F. Harwood, deceased, was one of the honored and highly respected pioneer citizens of Bloomington. He was born at Holley, N. Y., in 1838, the son of Chauncey and Louisa (Bogue) Harwood. Chauncey Harwood was a native of Vermont and in early manhood went to New York and located on the present site of Rochester, traveling the entire distance on foot from Chittenden, Vt., through dense forests. He bought a tract of 100 acres of land on which he built a woolen mill, just below the fall of the Genessee River. While operating that will his health failed and he removed to Orleans County, N. Y., where he purchased property and erected another woolen mill, which was liberally patronized by the early settlers. He was a staunch supporter of the Whig party and a deacon in the Presbyterian Church.

Thomas F. Harwood left home at the age of 20 years and came to Bloomington, where he established himself in the hardware business on Center Stret. In 1870 he sold out this business to his brothers and embarked in the lumber trade under the firm name of T. F. Harwood & Co. This was afterwards changed to T. F. Harwood & Sons. Mr. Harwood was connected with this business until his death, which occurred in December, 1891. In 1862 Mr. Harwood was married to Miss Marietta Keys, a native of Holley, N. Y., and a daughter of H. N. Keys. Four children were born to this union, one of whom is living, Willis S., the subject of this sketch.

Willis S. Harwood was reared and educated in Bloomington. He began his business career as bookkeeper for his father in 1882, when he was 20 years of age, and he has been constantly engaged in the lumber business to the present time.

On Nov. 3, 1887, Mr. Harwood was married to Charlotte Burr, a native of Bloomington, and the daughter of Alonzo and Mary (Foote) Burr, the former a native of Connecticut, the latter of New York. Mr. Burr died in May, 1900, and his wife died in November, 1919. Mr. and Mrs. Harwood have two children: Thomas F., engaged in business with his father; and Alonzo Burr, a student.

In politics Mr. Harwood is identified with the Republican party and he and his wife are members of the Christian Scientist Church. He is highly esteemed as an alert business man and an enterprising citizen.

Thomas F. Harwood, deceased, was one of the honored and highly respected pioneer citizens of Bloomington. He was born in Orleans County, N. Y., in 1838, the son of Chauncey and Louisa (Bogue) Harwood.

Chauncey Harwood was a native of Vermont and in early manhood went to New York and located on the present site of the city of Rochester, traveling the entire distance on foot from Chittenden, Vt., through dense forests. He bought a tract of 100 acres of land, on which he built a woolen mill just below the fall of the Genessee River. While operating that mill his health failed and he removed to Orleans County, N. Y., where he purchased property and erected another woolen mill, which was liberally patronized by the early settlers. Mr. Harwood was a stauch supporter of the Whig party and a deacon in the Presbyterian Church.

Thomas F. Harwood left home at the age of 20 years and came to Bloomington and established himself in the hardware business on Center Street. In 1870 he sold out this business to his brothers and embarked in the lumber trade, under the firm name of T. F. Harwood & Co. This was afterwards changed to T. F. Harwood & Sons. Mr. Harwood was con-

In 1862 Mr. Harwood was united in marriage with Miss Marietta Keys, a native of Orleans County, N. Y., and a daughter of H. N. Keys, a native of Connecticut. Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Harwood, as follows : Willis S. ; Clara ; and Harry B.

Mr. Harwood was a Republican and served for one term as alderman of the First Ward. He was a stockholder and vice-president of the Citizens Gas Light Company of Bloomington for many years, and was interested in the Third National Bank. Mr. Harwood was an energetic citizen who stood well in the esteem of his neighbors and fellow citizens.

Thomas Fitch Harwood, who is successfully engaged in the lumber and coal business with his father, is among the enterprising business men of Bloomington. He was born there, July 21, 1888, and is the son of Willis S. and Charlotte (Burr) Harwood, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this volume.

Thomas Fitch Harwood received his preliminary education in the public schools of Bloomington, after which he was graduated from Denver High School and the Colorado School of Mines at Golden, Colo. He spent three years in the mines of Colorado and Arizona as mining engineer and returned to Bloomington in 1910, where he has since been associated with his father in the lumber and coal business. The firm is known as the W. S. Harwood Lumber & Coal Company and is among the leading business enterprises of Bloomington.

On Oct. 10, 1911, Mr. Harwood was married to Miss Helen Capen, a native of Bloomington, and the daughter of Frank C. and May (Johnson) Capen, natives of Bloomington. Mr. Capen is deceased. His widow lives at 504 E. Front Street, Bloomington. To Mr. and Mrs. Harwood one daughter has been born, Jane, who is 10 years of age. She is the fifth generation of three of Bloomington's prominent pioneer families: the Burrs, Capens and Foots ; and the fourth generation of two other prominent families, the Harwoods and the Johnsons.

In politics, Mr. Harwood is identified with the Republican party and he belongs to the Masonic lodge, the Elks and the American Legion. He and his family are members of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Harwood is a representative citizen of McLean County and is highly esteemed.

Carl E. Whitehouse, who has been connected with the Chicago & Alton Railroad at Bloomington since 1903, is a native of Morgan County, Ohio. He was born in Morgan County, near McConnellsville, Feb. 2, 1879, and is a son of Israel and Catherine (Hastings) Whitehouse.

Israel Whitehouse and his wife were born in Morgan County, Ohio, and were engaged in farming there. Mr. Whitehouse died in November, 1903, and his wife lives on the old homestead. They were the parents of four children: Carl E., the subject of this sketch; Vernon, lives in Morgan County, Ohio; Ella, married John Broedell, lives in Morgan County, Ohio; and Harry, who also lives in Ohio.

Carl E. Whitehouse was educated in the public and high schools of McConnellsville, after which he taught school in Morgan County, Ohio, for four years. He afterward was engaged in selling text books for one year, and in 1903, entered the employ of the Chicago & Alton as fireman. Three years later he was promoted to engineer with a regular run from Peoria to Chicago. At present Mr. Whitehouse is in the pool block service.

On Oct. 18, 1905, Mr. Whitehouse was united in marriage with Miss Mildred Hammond, a native of LeRoy, 111., born in 1881, and a daughter of William and Catherine (Bishop) Hammond, the former a native of New Jersey and the latter of McLean County. Mr. Hammond died in 1903 and his wife died in 1912. They were the parents of four children: Ida, died in 1922, was the wife of Thomas Rutledge; James Walter, lives in Normal; Charles, lives in North Dakota; Elizabeth, married William Dewitt, lives at Moline, 111. ; and Mrs. Whitehouse. Mr. and Mrs. Whitehouse have four children: Doris, C. E., Jr., Eleanor, and William.

Alonzo Sargent was among the early settlers of Bloomington. He followed farming and stock raising in Bloomington Township for many years and then engaged in the bakery business in Bloomington, and later in the livery and feed business. He also was a breeder of draft horses. Mr. Sargent died in August, 1898, at the age of 55 years.

Mr. Sargent was married to Miss Betty Baker, who was born in Bloomington, Feb. 22, 1836, the daughter of Seth and Mary (Gates) Baker, natives of Ohio, and pioneers of Bloomington. Mrs. Sargent's grandfather, Isaac Baker, was the first postmaster of Bloomington. Mrs. Sargent has one sister living: Margaret, the widow of Frank Packard, lives in Bloomington. To Alonzo and Betty (Baker) Sargent five children were born as follows: Frank, deceased; Mary; Clara, the widow of Ambrose Kirkpatrick, lives at 1202 East Washington Street; Frankie, died in infancy ; and A. J., lives in Bloomington. There are two grandchildren, Alonzo and Esther Sargent. Mrs. Sargent lives at 1202 East Washington Street, with her daughter, Mrs. Kirkpatrick, and is highly respected and esteemed in her community.

William O. Strimple, deceased, was a substantial citizen of Bloomington and a veteran of the Civil War. He was born at Salem, Ohio, Feb. 3, 1844, the son of Robert and Ann (McCune) Strimple.

Robert Strimple and his wife were born in Ohio and were early settlers of McLean County, where they followed farming. Mr. Strimple owned 300 acres of 'land and was a successful stockman. He was a Republican and served as justice of the peace for a number of years. Mr. and Mrs. Strimple, now deceased, were the parents of the following children: William O., the subject of this sketch; Adolphus, deceased; Charles, a retired farmer, lives west of Bloomington; Laura, the widow of John Enlow, lives near Bloomington ; Emma, the widow of Milan Munsell, lives near Bloomington ; Oren, lives retired in Bloomington ; and Jane, deceased.

William O. Strimple was educated in the schools of Bloomington and spent his boyhood on his father's farm. He followed farming during his life and met with success as a stockman. Mr. Strimple owned 60 acres of land. During the Civil War he served with Company B, 68th Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and took part in several important battles and skirmishes. Mr. Strimple died Jan. 2, 1921.

On Sept. 17, 1867, Mr. Strimple was united in marriage with Miss Sarah Eubank, a native of Winchester, Ky., born April 10, 1846, and the daughter of Achilles and Leanner (Kennedy) Eubank, natives of Kentucky and early settlers of Illinois, having come here in 1852 on the first train that ran into Bloomington. Mr. Eubank died in 1895 and his wife died in 1901. They were the parents of the following- children: Mrs. Strimple; John, lives at Ellsworth, 111.; Lucinda, the widow of George Jones, lives in Bloomington ; Nancy, the widow of Thomas Epperson, lives in Iowa; Mary, deceased; May, the widow of John Miller, lives at Ellsworth, 111. ; and Burt, died in infancy. To Mr. and Mrs. Strimple six children were born, as follows: Cora, born in 1868, married J. C. Fierce, lives in Bloomington; Jennie, born in 1870, died in 1905, was the wife of George Gibbler; Eugene, born in 1872, lives at Topeka, Kan.; John, born in 1874, lives in Wisconsin; Oscar, born in 1876, lives at Peoria, 111.; and Ella, born in 1885, married Leon Swain, lives in Bloomington. Mrs. Strimple has eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

In politics, Mr. Strimple was identified with the Republican party, and he served as justice of the peace for six years and as constable for four years. He was a member of the Methodist Church and was a reliable citizen of his community. Mrs. Strimple has lived in Bloomington for 22 years.

Louis Dahm, deceased, was a well known and highly respected citizen of Bloomington. He was born in New Orleans, La., Oct. 5, 1848, the son of Louis and Cecelia Dahm, natives of France and early settlers of New Orleans, La. There was but one child in the Dahm family, Louis, the subject of this sketch.

Louis Dahm received his education in the schools of New Orleans and came to Bloomington when a young man. He learned the carpenter trade, which he followed his entire life. Mr. Dahm took part in the construction of many of the large business houses of Bloomington and owned a considerable amount of property. He died Nov. 9, 1909, and is buried in Bloomington.

On Sept. 22, 1875, Mr. Dahm was united in marriage with Miss Amelia Herder, a native of Germany, born Dec. 12, 1855, and the daughter of Gustave and Julia (Bush) Herder, natives of Germany and who settled in Bloomington in 1860, having left Germany in 1859. The ocean voyage required nine weeks. Mr. Herder died in 1870 and his wife died in 1884. They were the parents of the following children: Julius, lives in Bloomington; Mrs. Dahm; Clara, married John Lorber, lives in Bloomington;

Charles, deceased; Louis, deceased; and William, also deceased. To Louis and Amelia (Herder) Dahm three children were born, as follows: Louis, born in 1876, died in infancy; Lillian, born Nov. 10, 1878, was married on June 20, 1897, to Robert Bolles, and they live in Chicago; and Edward, born July 23, lives in Bloomington. There is one grandchild, Marlowe, who was born March 9, 1899. A great grandchild, Bonnie Lee Bolles, was born Aug. 21, 1923, and died in infancy.

Mr. Dahm was a Democrat, and belonged to the Knights of Pythias and the Red Men. He was a progressive citizen and merited the high regard in which he was held in the community.

John Wesley Beck with, deceased, was a prominent and highly respected citizen of Bloomington for many years. He was born near Rochester, N. Y., Dec. 5, 1844, the son of Nelson LeRoy and Hannah V. (Mevis) Beckwith.

Nelson LeRoy Beckwith was born near Rochester, N. Y., Sept. 21, 1816, and came to McLean County with his family in 1852. He settled at Lexington but later removed to Bloomington, where he engaged in shipping stock. Later, he went to Chicago, where he lived for 20 years. He was a charter member of the Masonic Lodge and belonged to the Baptist Church. Mr. Beckwith died Feb. 21, 1887, and his wife died Aug. 10, 1899. She was also a native of New York, born Feb. 24, 1816. They were the parents of the following children: Walter I., born May 26, 1840, served throughout the Civil war with the 39th Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and died Feb. 21, 1905 ; N. L., born Oct. 3, 1841, died Oct. 31, 1873 ; Hannah J. born July 23, 1843, died Feb. 10, 1844; John Wesley, the subject of this sketch; and Lester S., born Oct. 4, 1846, died July 24, 1901.

John Wesley Beckwith was among the pioneer railroad men of Illinois. He was reared and educated in Bloomington and his first position was with the Illinois Central Railroad as conductor. He was later transferred to the Big Four Railroad as conductor, and was later appointed yard master. Mr. Beckwith was killed while on duty, Nov. 10, 1871, and is buried in Bloomington.

During the Civil war Mr. Beckwith enlisted in Company E, 11th Missouri Cavalry and served throughout the war as a bugler. He was wounded during the battle of Lexington, Mo., when his horse was shot from under him. .

On May 18, 1868, Mr. Beckwith was united in marriage with Miss Leonora Baird, a native of Clarksburg, W. Va., born March 15, 1848, and the daughter of John S. and Mary B. (Hayes) Baird. Mr. Baird was born in Virginia May 30, 1812, and came to Illinois in 1854, locating in Bloomington. His wife was born Jan. 4, 1811, and was a first cousin to Rutherford B. Hayes, at one time president of the United States. Mr. Baird died May 7, 1879, and his wife died Jan. 16, 1898. They were the parents of 10 children, as follows: Anna M., the widow of Henry Jordan, now 85 years of age, lives in Mansfield, 111.; Jane A., deceased; Mary, deceased; William, died Oct. 4, 1915; Esther L., the widow of Charles Glissman, lives at Bellflower, I1L ; John M., born April 8, 1846; died Feb. 18, 1921; Mrs. Beckwith; Lewell, born May 4, 1849, died in 1881; Rebecca J., born Feb. 25, 1851, married Joseph Robinson, lives near Portland, Ore. ; and Didema, born Oct. 22, 1852, married Lloyd Farmer, and died in 1877. To John Wesley and Leonora (Baird) Beckwith two children were born: Blanche B., born Feb. 24, 1869, died Oct. 27, 1894; and John W., born Sept. 22, 1870, died Aug. 4, 1888.

John Wesley Beckwith was a Republican and a member of the Baptist Church. His widow lives at 611 East Empire Street, Bloomington. She is a member of the Grace Methodist Church, having joined that church when she was nine years old. Mrs. Beckwith has lived in the same residence for 33 years, has been a subscriber of the Pantagraph for 55 years, and a customer of the McLean County Coal Company for 55 years also. She is widely known in McLean County and is among the highly esteemed women of Bloomington, where she has spent so many years.

Shepard Reynolds, deceased, was a veteran of the Civil War and a highly esteemed citizen of Bloomington. He was born in Tazewell County, III, April 1, 1845, the son of Jesse and Sarah (Collins) Reynolds.

Jesse Reynolds was a native of Illinois and an early settler of McLean County. There were seven children in the Reynolds family, all of whom are deceased.

Shepard Reynolds attended the district schools of Illinois and when a young man learned the painter's trade, which he followed for many years in Bloomington. He served throughout the Civil War, enlisting at three different times. He suffered injuries to his head and shoulder during the war, which later caused blindness, and for 15 years before his death, Mr. Reynolds was totally blind. He died Sept. 3, 1901.

On Dec. 31, 1867, Mr. Reynolds was united in marriage with Miss Sarah E. Lyons, a native of Licking County, Ohio, born July 29, 1845, and the daughter of William and Esther (Goodrich) Lyons, the former a native of Pennsylvania and the latter of Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Lyons, deceased, were the parents of the following children: Mary Ellen, deceased; Mrs. Reynolds; Martha A., deceased; Frank A., deceased; Salinda, deceased; James Henry, soldier, Iowa; and Alice, married John Hughes, both deceased. To Shepard and Sarah E. (Lyons) Reynolds five children were born, as follows: Charles W., deceased; Clarence H., lives in Bloomington; Nellie M., married M. R. Osman, lives in Bloomington; Elmer and Clyde S., both living in Bloomington. Mrs. Reynolds has 10 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Mr. Reynolds was a Republican, a member of the Methodist Church, and belonged to the Grand Army of the Republic. Mrs. Reynolds is a member of the United Brethren Church and is highly respected in Bloomington.

James F. Riley, a well known and highly respected citizen of Randolph Township, who is now living retired, was born in Nicholas County, Ky., Nov. 1, 1843, the son of John and Elizabeth (Johnson) Riley.

John Riley, a native of Kentucky, was kicked by a horse and died when he was 27 years old. His wife died in 1861, at the age of 51 years. James F., the subject of this sketch, was their only child.

James F. Riley was educated in the district schools of Kentucky, and when he was a young man went to Cincinnati, Ohio, where he was employed in a wholesale house as a clerk. He came to McLean County in 1872 and engaged in general farming and stockraising in Randolph Township, where he owns a well-improved farm of 160 acres.

On Nov. 8, 1866, Mr. Riley was married to Miss Elizabeth Johnson, born in Nicholas County, Ky., and to this union four children were born: Etta H., died at the age of 31 years; Willie Ray, died in infancy; Harry M., died at the age of four years; and Carroll, born Feb. 21, 1887. Mrs. Riley died April 6, 1919, age 73 years. She was a daughter of Labon and Eliza (Victor) Johnson, natives of Nicholas County, Ky., where they died.

James F. Riley

Carroll Riley was educated in the public schools and attended Brown's Business College at Bloomington. He is now engaged in general farming and stock raising on his father's farm. In 1910 Carroll Riley was married to Miss Anna Alexander, a daughter of P. D. Alexander. Mr. and Mrs. Riley have four children, as follows: Dorothy Laverne, Fern E., Denny H., and Jennie Lee.

James F. Riley is a Democrat and belongs to the Masonic lodge. Mr. Riley and his wife were charter members of the Christian church at Normal, having organized the church at Normal in 1875. Mr. Riley was a first cousin of James Whitcomb Riley, who was the beloved Hoosier poet, and who made many visits to the Riley home in Randolph Township. Mr. Riley spends each winter at Tampa, Florida. He is well known in McLean County and is held in high esteem.

Charles Herder, deceased, was a well known citizen of Bloomington for many years. He was born in Germany, Dec. 22, 1856, the son of Gustave and Julia (Bush) Herder.

Gustave Herder brought his family to this country from Germany in 1856 and located at Bloomington, where he engaged in the upholstery business. He and his wife, now deceased, were the parents of the following children: Julius, lives in Bloomington; Amelia, the widow of Louis Dahm, lives in Bloomington; Clara, married John Lorber, lives in Bloomington; Charles, the subject of this sketch; and William and Lewis, deceased.

Charles Herder was reared and educated in Bloomington and began life railroading on the Chicago & Alton Railroad. He became an engineer and after a number of years moved to Venice, 111., where he engaged in the grocery business for 15 years. Mr. Herder died April 29, 1920, and is buried in Bloomington, having returned here in 1909.

On Nov. 19, 1890, Mr. Herder was united in marriage with Miss Lilly Weyh, a native of Illinois, and a daughter of William and Mary A. Weyh, natives of Germany and Pennsylvania, respectively. Mr. Weyh came to' this country at the age of 14 years and settled in St. Louis, where he engaged in the commission business. He served throughout the Civil War and was slightly wounded. Mr. Weyh served as mayor of Venice, 111., for a period of 16 years and as justice of the peace for a number of years. He was a Republican, a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, and belonged to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Red Men, the Knights of Pythias and the Lutheran Church. He died June 15, 1905, and his wife died Jan. 23, 1915. They were the parents of the following children: Nellie M., deceased; Mrs. Herder; Jessie, married Thomas McCauley, lives in St. Louis; Harry W., lives in St. Louis; and Frederick, deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Herder four children were born, as follows: Ruth M., married Daniel Manney, lives at 1104 S. Fell Avenue, Normal, 111. ; Mary J., attending Brown's Business College in Bloomington; Charles W., attending high school; and Lilly J., also a student. Mrs. Herder has one grandchild, Charles Vance Manney, who was born Aug. 16, 1921.

Charles Herder was a Republican and a member of the Methodist Church. He was esteemed throughout the community as a substantial and reliable citizen.

William A. Stautz, deceased, was a well known business man of Bloomington. He was born in that city, Nov. 24, 1859, the son of Jacob and Bibiana (Uhrie) Stautz.

Jacob Stautz was a pioneer business man of Bloomington. There were seven children in the Stautz family, as follows: William A., the subject of this sketch; Louise, the widow of George L. Porter, lives at Indianapolis, Ind. ; Rose, married George H. Miller, lives in Bloomington ; Emma, the widow of Thomas Darmody, lives in Indianapolis, Ind. ; Ottilie, married Henry Kadglim, lives at Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Jacob, deceased; and Romilda, widow of Ernest Gaffon, lives at Indianapolis, Ind.

William A. Stautz received his education in the public schools of Bloomington and at the age of 17 years engaged in business with his father, who owned and operated a meat business. Mr. Stautz continued in this line of work until the time of his death, Dec. 10, 1921. He is buried in Evergreen Cemetery, Bloomington.

On March 14, 1889, Mr. Stautz was united in marriage with Miss Bertha Lenze, a native of Bloomington, born Nov. 16, 1867, and the daughter of Emil and Bertha (Schroka) Lenze, the former a native of Switzerland and the latter of Prussia. Mr. Lenze, who died in 1895, was a Re- publican, a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, and belonged to the Catholic Church. He served during the Civil War. Mrs. Lenze died in 1917. They were the parents of four children: Lydia, married Edward F. Meyer, lives in Chicago; Mrs. Stautz; Anna, lives with her sister, Mrs. Stautz; and Emil, deceased. To William A. and Bertha (Lenze) Stautz three children were born, as follows: William T., engaged in the grain business in Pittsburg, Pa. ; George P., engaged in the grain business in Bloomington; and Helen, born May 9, 1894, died Jan. 13, 1916.

George P. Stautz is a World War veteran, having served with a medical supply corps. There are two grandchildren : Helen, daughter of William T. Stautz, who was born Sept. 1, 1915 ; and William L., son of George P. Stautz, who was born Sept. 3, 1920.

William A. Stautz was a Republican and served as county treasurer of McLean County for one term and as alderman for eight terms. He was a member of the Unitarian Church and belonged to the Masonic Lodge, the Knights of Pythias, the Elks and the Modern Woodmen of America. Mr. Stautz was highly respected and was a substantial citizen of Bloomington.

Francis A. Packard, deceased, was a prominent pioneer of McLean County. He was born in Canada, Jan. 13, 1833, the son of Rev. John A. and Mariam (Bullock) Packard.

Rev. John A. Packard was born at Saint Johnsbury, Vt., the son of Richard Packard, a soldier of the Revolutionary War and a direct descendant of John Alden, well known historical character. Reverend Packard was a minister of the Methodist Church and was a circuit rider, preaching throughout the country. He was an early settler of Canada and later lived in Illinois. He died in 1862 and his wife died in 1876. They were the parents of the following children: Callista, married H. Bryant, both deceased; Marshie, married Christopher Chatman, both deceased; Charles, deceased; Mary Frances, married Joseph Monroe, both deceased; Jesse, deceased; John Alden, Civil War veteran, deceased; Matthew Hale, deceased; Walter S., a Civil War veteran, deceased; Emeline, married George Monroe, both deceased; William B., Civil War veteran, deceased; Thadius, deceased; and Francis A., the subject of this sketch.

Francis A. Packard was reared and educated in Canada and came to the United States in 1855, locating in Bloomington, where he engaged in the mercantile business for a number of years. During the Civil War he served with Company I, 94th Illinois Volunteer Infantry. After the close of the war he returned to Bloomington and engaged in the insurance and real estate business. Mr. Packard died May 22, 1911, and is buried in Evergreen Cemetery.

On Feb. 4, 1857, Mr. Packard was united in marriage with Miss Margaret S. Baker, a native of Bloomington, born Aug. 6, 1830, and the daughter of Seth and Mary M. (Gates) Baker, natives of Marietta, Ohio. Mr. Baker was born in 1805 and his wife was born the same year. They came to Illinois in 1827 and were among the earliest settlers of Bloomington, where they built a log cabin on the spot where the post-office now stands! It was the third frame house to be built in the town. Mr. Baker was a well-known merchant and became prosperous. He was a charter member of the Masonic Lodge and was identified with the Whig party and later became a Republican. He died Dec. 5, 1846, and his wife died Nov. 19, 1839. They were the parents of the following children: Mrs. Packard; Mary M., married Chambers P. Ober, both deceased; Bettsy Dodge, the widow of Alonzo Sargent, lives on East Washington Street, Bloomington; and Izrael D., who was drowned while in service during the Civil War. To Francis A. and Margaret S. (Baker) Packard two children were born: Edith, born Nov. 1, 1857, married first to Edwin F. Feidler, deceased, and later she was married to James B. Kelley, and they live at 811 West Jefferson Street, Bloomington; and Charles B., born May 24, 1866, died Oct. 7, 1898. Mrs. Packard has two grandchildren: Eva, married John L. Murray, lives in Bloomington ; and Edwin F., who lives in Bloomington. There are four great-grandchildren : Loren P. Murray, who was killed by accident in 1921. He was a World War veteran, 154th Aerial Squadron; Margaret H. Murray ; Frances Murray ; and Robert K. Murray.

Mrs. Francis A. Packard is among the highly esteemed women of Bloomington and is an interesting pioneer. She is now 94 years of age and enjoys good health.

Francis A. Packard was a staunch Republican. He held many public offices and was prominent in the affairs of his city. He was an active church worker, being a member of the Unitarian Church. Mr. Packard belonged to the Grand Army of the Republic and was one of the well known and dependable citizens of this section of Illinois.

Harry E. Flesher, postmaster of Lexington, is a worthy descendant of an old and honored Virginia family. He was born on a farm a short distance west of Lexington, 111., Feb. 22, 1868, the son of John W. and Nannie (Armstrong) Flesher.

Lieut. John Flesher, great-grandfather of the subject of this sketch, served in the Fifth Regiment of Virginia Volunteers during the War of 1812 between the United States and England. His son, Jesse Flesher, was born in Virginia and came to Illinois with his father in 1841. John W. Flesher, father of the subject of this sketch, was also a native of Virginia and lived in Ohio before coming to Lexington, 111.

Harry E. Flesher was educated in the Lexington public schools and in 1891 entered the employ of Mahan Brothers Company as a salesman, remaining with this firm for 16 years. In 1908 he accepted a position in the hardware store of S. F. Strayer, continuing in the employ of this concern until May, 1911, when he bought the business and has since conducted it under his own name.

The business of H. E. Flesher was one of the most extensive conducted in Lexington. The stock consisted of shelf and heavy hardware, cutlery, granite, tinware, stoves, guns, ammunition and everything carried by a general hardware dealer. In connection Mr. Flesher also conducted an extensive tin and sheet metal shop, manufacturing tin roofing, spouting, skylights, cornices, and also construction work in this line. The plumbing and heating department was also an important branch of the business. Furnaces, hot water and steam heating plants were installed along sanitary and scientific lines. Mr. Flesher was the first to introduce automobile delivery trucks in Lexington. On March 3, 1923, he was appointed postmaster of Lexington, which office he has since filled in a capable and efficient manner.

On Oct. 1, 1891, Mr. Flesher was united in marriage with Miss Minnie A. Yoder, a daughter of Amos Yoder, of Money Creek Township. Five children have blessed this union, as follows: Russell R., lives at Bloomington; Kathryn, married on May 18, 1917, to William C. Lindsay, Jr., manager of the grocery department of the Lindsay and Smith Company at Lexington, and they have one child, Helen Annette; Dorothy L., a graduate of the Lexington High School in 1922 and now postmistress with her father; Edith M., a junior in high school; and Mary E., in the sixth grade of school.

The Flesher family affiliates with the Christian congregation and are prominent in social circles. They reside in one of the modern homes of this city, where they extend hospitality to a large circle of friends. Mr. Flesher is a gentlman of genial personality and an excellent business man, and has always taken an active part in the political and public affairs of his town. He was a member of the Republican County Central Committee for a term of 10 years. Fraternally, he belongs to the Knights of Pythias and Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and has held the office of Keeper of Records and Seal for the past 25 years and has also been their Grand Representative for over 20 years.

J. W. Ashabran, manager of the Lexington Garage Company and agent for Hupmobile automobiles, is a native of McLean County and a prominent business man. He was born in Lexington Township, Aug. 16, 1873, and is the son of Daniel and Lydia (Downey) Ashabran.

Daniel Ashabran, a native of Lexington Township, McLean County, was born April 2, 1840, the son of John and Bettsy (Haner) Ashabran, natives of Pennsylvania and pioneer settlers of McLean County, where they died. Daniel, father of the subject of this sketch, was their only child. He was a leading farmer of Lexington Township and served throughout the Civil War with Company K, 145th Illinois Volunteer Infantry. Mr. Ashabran owned the old homestead of 200 acres, which he farmed until 1898, when he retired and moved to Lexington, where he died in February, 1916. Lydia (Downey) Ashabran was born in Ohio in 1844 and died in 1891. She was the daughter of William Downey, a native of Ohio and early settler of Clark County, 111. Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Ashabran had five children, of whom only one is now living, J. W., the subject of this sketch.

J. W. Ashabran was reared on his father's farm and received his education in the public schools. He remained on the home place until 1916, when he sold it and came to Lexington. Mr. Ashabran formed a garage company and became manager. He is now secretary and treasurer of the company, which is one of the leading business enterprises of Lexington. They have the agency for Hupmobile automobiles and Fisk tires.

ton. To J. W. and Carrie (Harness) Ashabran four children have been born, as follows: Voyle, at home; Violet, married William Falkingham, lives at Lexington, and they have one child, Donald ; Neva, married James Reese, lives at Chicago, and they have one child, Rhoa; and William, lives at home.

Mr. Ashabran is identified with the Republican party in politics and has served as road commissioner for three years. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Mr. Ashabran is well and favorably known in McLean County and takes an active interest in the affairs of the community.

L. B. Strayer, the well known cashier of The Peoples Bank of Lexington, is a member of one of McLean County's oldest and most prominent families. He was born at Lexington, April 8, 1869, the son of Morinus and Sarah F. (Smith) Strayer.

Morinus Strayer was a well known attorney of McLean County for a number of years, having come here from Bellefontaine, Ohio, where he was born. His wife was a native of McLean County, born in 1842, and she now lives in Lexington. After the death of her first husband, Mrs. Strayer was later married to W. D. Powley, deceased. To Morinus and Sarah F. (Smith) Strayer two children were born: Frank, lives in Detroit, Mich.; and L. B., the subject of this sketch.

L. B. Strayer was reared and educated at Lexington and entered the banking business in 1886. His first position was that of janitor in the First National Bank and he was later made bookkeeper and finally cashier of the bank. In 1898 the First National Bank of Lexington was consolidated with The Peoples Bank, and at that time Mr. Strayer entered the hardware business, where he remained until 1911, when he was again made cashier of the bank, which office he has since filled.

In 1892 Mr. Strayer was united in marriage with Miss Blanche Claggett, a native of Lexington, and she died in 1896 at the age of 25 years. To this union two children were born, as follows: Jane, married John Gilmore, lives at Lexington; and Elaine, lives at Normal, 111. In 1901 Mr. Strayer was married to Miss Wintie E. Franklin, a daughter of J. N. and Sarah (Chase) Franklin, both deceased. No children have been born to the second union.

In politics Mr. Strayer is a Republican. He has served as city treas urer of Lexington, school treasurer, member of the school board and secretary of the board for 12 years, chairman of the county board and he has been a member of the board of the Smith Library and treasurer since its organization on June 28, 1912. Mr. Strayer is a member of the Masonic Lodge, and was one of the originators of the Turkey Creek Golf Club.

Thomas B. Kilgore, who now lives retired at Bloomington, is a veteran of the Civil War and a prominent citizen of McLean County. He was born in Franklin County, Ohio, March 23, 1840, and is the son of John and Malona C. (Beach) Kilgore, natives of Madison County, Ohio, where the former was born Oct. 30, 1815, and the latter April 6, 1823. The paternal grandparents, Thomas and Jane Kilgore, were born in Pennsylvania.

John Kilgore first acquired 100 acres of land in Ohio, subsequently increasing his possessions to the extent of 256 acres there. On this farm he lived from 1839 until 1893. At one time he was also the owner of 800 acres of land located in Lawndale Township, McLean County, 111. In 1893 Mr. Kilgore and his wife paid a visit to their son, Thomas B., the subject of this sketch, in Bloomington, and while on this visit Mr. Kilgore died. His wife died April 25, 1905. There were four children in the Kilgore family: Albert, deceased; John N., lives at Kenton, Ohio; Sarah, deceased, was the wife of Samuel Stauffer, of Colfax, 111. ; and Thomas B., the subject of this sketch.

Thomas B. Kilgore received his education in the district schools and also attended Ohio Wesleyan University. He was reared to the life of a farmer and assisted his father in the farm work until the outbreak of the Civil War. In 1861 he enlisted in the First Regiment Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, organized under Colonel Ransom, and during his service took part in 30 battles. He participated in the battle of Corinth, and while at Courtland, Ala., the battalion of which he was a member was surrounded and captured. Mr. Kilgore and five others put spurs to their horses and escaped under a heavy fire. He fought at Perryville, Chicamauga, Mission Ridge, the Siege of Knoxville, Dalton, Kenesaw Mountain, the Siege of Atlanta, and in many other engagements, emerging from all unharmed. After the war Mr. Kilgore remained with his father on the farm. On March 10, 1867, he came to Illinois and with his father's assistance bought

320 acres of land in Lawndale Township, McLean County. He applied himself diligently to work and prosperity attended his exertions, enabling him in a short time to add 160 acres to the original purchase. Since 1888 Mr. Kilgore has lived retired in Bloomington. His residence is located at 1006 East Grove Street.

On April 11, 1867, Mr. Kilgore was united in marriage with Miss Mary E. Batterton, who was born July 18, 1840, the daughter of Martin and America (Taylor) Batterton, natives of Kentucky. The Batterton family came to Illinois in 1830, locating in Lawndale Township, Mc- Lean County. Mrs. Kilgore had one sister, Zerilda, and one brother, Ira. To Mr. and Mrs. Kilgore four children were born, as follows: John M., born March 29, 1868; Lizzie M., born June 1, 1871, married Dr. Welsh, of Lexington; Maude B., born Aug. 1, 1877, married Albert Vasey; and Thomas Beach, born May 16, 1881, an attorney. Mrs. Kilgore died April 25, 1922, and is buried at Colfax, 111.

Mr. Kilgore is a Republican and he and his family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a 32d degree Mason, having been a member of that organization since 1873. Mr. Kilgore is a substantial citizen and the Kilgore family has always been representative of the best citizenship in the county.

L. F. Hyneman, manager of the Lexington Telephone Company, is a prominent citizen and successful business man of McLean County. He was born at Lexington, July 8, 1879, the son of M. M. and Mary Jane (Wood) Hyneman.

The Hyneman family came to Illinois from Monroe County, Ind., where M. M. Hyneman was born in 1833. They were among the first settlers of Lexington, where Mr. Hyneman worked at his trade of blacksmith. He later carried on farming and stock raising and now lives retired at Lexington. His wife died in 1911 at the age of 76 years. They had five children, as follows: Elizabeth, married H. L. Hyre, lives at Lexington; Julia, married W. C. Knight, lives at Grand Junction, Colo.; Addie, married Jacob Brown, lives at Yukon, Okla. ; Eva, married N. F. McConnell, lives at Lexington; and L. F., the subject of this sketch.

1897 he inaugurated telephone service at Lexington, having built an exchange there. Mr. Hyneman built the switch board and installed it himself and during the first year of service 40 telephones were in use, as compared with 600 now used at Lexington. Mr. Hyneman has 160 miles of long distance lines in use and in 1907 a modern brick building was constructed for the telephone company, which is 20x32 feet in size and of fireproof construction. The Lexington Telephone Company was the first company in any of the small towns to install underground cables and Mr. Hyneman is among the pioneer telephone men of McLean County.

The Lexington Telephone Company was incorporated in 1905 for |20,000, and since that time has been increased to $50,000. The company employes six operators and about five men and the stockholders are citizens of the community.

Mr. Hyneman was married on Nov. 20, 1901, to Miss Mae LaFever, a native of Mt. Vernon, Ohio, and the daughter of William and Addie (Guy) LaFever, natives of Ohio, who settled in McLean County in 1885. Mr. and Mrs. LaFever now reside at Lexington. To L. F. and Mae (LaFever) Hyneman three children have been born, as follows: Lucile, at home; Lyle ; and Levin..

In politics Mr. Hyneman is a Republican and he has served as city alderman. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church and belongs to the Knights of Pythias, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and the Modern Woodmen of America. Mr. Hyneman is a man of excellent character, industrious and competent.

George J. Smith, a well known citizen of McLean County, who is successfully engaged in the general merchandise business at Lexington, was born at Lexington, March 16, 1863, and is the son of Milton and Lydin (Goddard) Smith.

Milton Smith was born in Franklin County, Ky., Feb. 19, 1808, and died in 1887. He was a farmer and came to Illinois in 1835, making the trip on horseback. Mr. Smith helped build the first house at Lexington and was supervisor of the county board in Lexington Townshop. He was a large landowner and cattle feeder, and was the son of William and Obedience Smith. Lydia (Goddard) Smith was born in Indiana, and was the daughter of Dr. Abbott Goddard, a pioneer physician of McLean County.

She died in 1890 at the age of 70 years. Mr. and Mrs. Milton Smith were the parents of the following children: Sarah, the widow of Willis Strayer, lives at Lexington; W. A., a retired farmer, lives at Lexington; Fletcher M., lives at Everett, Wash. ; Carrie, the widow of A. D. Pierson, lives at Lexington; Kate, the widow of L. D. Poole, lives at Lexington; L. H., dairyman, lives at Lexington; George J. ,the subject of this sketch; Estelle, married Harry S. Shade, lives at Nomal; and Anna Mary, deceased, was the wife of George B. Okeson.

George J. Smith has always lived at Lexington and received his education in the public schools there and is also a graduate of the Bloomington Business College, in the class of 1884. He then engaged in the mercantile business with Lindsay and Son, as a clerk. Five years later Mr. Smith bought the interest of the elder Mr. Lindsay, and formed a partnership with W. C. Lindsay, and since that time the firm is known as Lindsay and Smith. They carry a complete line of general merchandise and it has become one of the thriving business institutions of McLean County. Besides his town interests, Mr. Smith owns a well-improved farm of 250 acres in Lexington Township.

On Sept. 20, 1888, Mr. Smith was married to Miss Emma Lindsay, a native of Lexington, and the daughter of William and Ruth (Carlisle) Lindsay. Mrs. Smith was a classmate of her husband. She died in April, 1899, leaving one son, Milton, who is also deceased. Milton Smith was married to Miss Rachael Armstrong, and she now lives with her fatherin-law, Mr. Smith.

Mr. Smith is a Republican and for the past 20 years has served as a member of the school board. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church and is a substantial and highly respected citizen of McLean County.

W. C. Lindsay, Sr., a successful merchant at Lexington, Is a member of one of McLean County's prominent pioneer families. He was born at Lexington, July 21, 1856, the son of William and Ruth (Carlisle) Lindsay.

William Lindsay, an early settler of Lexington, was born at Glasgow, Scotland, in 1844 and came to the United States when he was 24 years of age, locating at Shippensburg, Pa. While there he married and for the next ten years engaged in carpenter and construction work. In

1854 Mr. Lindsay came to Lexington, 111., where he followed his trade as builder. He brought 10 carpenters with him from Pennsylvania and built many homes for the early settlers. During the Civil War Mr. Lindsay engaged in the general mercantile business in partnership with W. M. Grier, and this partnership continued until 1874. Three years later Mr. Lindsay went into business at Lexington with his son, W. C, the subject of this sketch, and the firm was known as Lindsay and Son. In 1893 he retired from business and died on July 24, 1894. Mr. Lindsay was an active worker in the Presbyterian Church and was an elder for a number of years. He gave the ground where the church now stands and also laid out Lexington City Park and planted trees, which is known now as Lindsay Park, named after Mr. Lindsay. Mrs. Lindsay was born at Shippensburg, Pa., in 1824 and died in 1892. They were the parents of eight children, three of whom are now living, as follows: Alice, married W. M. Grier, lives at Phoenix, Ariz.; John H., lives at Lexington; and W. C, the subject of this sketch.

after finishing his high school course he was employed as clerk in his father's store. In 1877 he went into business with his father and in 1893 purchased his father's interest in the business. The firm was then known as W. C. Lindsay, and in 1896 Mr. Lindsay formed a partnership with George W. Smith, which still exists. They have a fine store and carry a complete line of groceries and general merchandise.

On April 8, 1885, Mr. Lindsay was united in marriage with Miss Josephine Elders, a native of Bloomington, born July 17, 1860, and the daughter of Dr. C. S. and Mary (Martin) Elders. Dr. Elders was a probinent physician of Chenoa, Lexington and Bloomington. To W. C. and Josephine (Elders) Lindsay five children have been born, as follows: Ruth, at home; Dr. Charles, a physician in Chicago who served throughout the World War; Mary, employed in her father's store; W. C, Jr., manager of the Lindsay and Smith grocery department, a sketch of whom appears in this volume ; and Louisa, at home.

Mr. Lindsay is a Republican and has been a member of the school board for a number of years. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Lindsay has an extensive acquaintance in McLean County and is recognized as a dependable citizen.

W. C. Lindsay, Jr., president of the Commercial Club of Lexington, is a progressive and enterprising young business man of McLean County. He was born at Lexington, Sept. 2, 1895, and is the son of W. C. and Josephine (Elder) Lindsay, a sketch of whom appears in these volumes.

W. C. Lindsay, Sr., is a prominent business man of McLean County and the Lindsay family are among the oldest families of the county. Mr. Lindsay owns a large store at Lexington and is in partnership with George W. Smith. They carry a complete line of general merchandise and have an extensive business. Mr. and Mrs. Lindsay have five children, as follows: Ruth, at home; Dr. Charles, a physician at Chicago; Mary, at home; W. C, Jr., the subject of this sketch; and Louisa, at home.

W. C. Lindsay, Jr., has always lived at Lexington. He received his education in the public and high schools there and attended the state university, where he took a commercial course. Mr. Lindsay was then engaged as clerk in his father's store at Lexington and is now manager of the grocery department.

On May 18, 1917, Mr. Lindsay was married to Miss Kathryn Flesher, a native of Lexington, and the daughter of H. E. and Minnie (Yoder) Flesher, a sketch of whom appears in this volume. To this union one child has been born, Helen Annette, born June 10, 1918.

In politics Mr. Lindsay is a Republican. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church and belongs to the Masonic Lodge and the Knights of Pythias. Mr. Lindsay is a capable young man, one whose success in life is assured by virtue of his industry and training.

Nettie Bills Dement, superintendent of McLean County schools, is without doubt one of the prominent women of McLean County. She was born eight miles east of Lexington, 111., Aug. 5, 1861, and is the daughter of Dr. William W. and Margaret A. (Myers) Bills.

Dr. William W. Bills was a prominent physician of Missouri for many years, and a native of Bourbon County, Ky., where he was born May 11, 1837. He was the son of Dr. Alvin and Mary Nelson (Sims) Bills, the former a native of North Carolina and the latter of Culpeper County, Va.

W., deceased, was a prominent newspaper man, further mention of whom is made below; and Ella May, married E. G. Hayward, and they live at Cooksville, 111., where he is a grain dealer.

George W. Bills established a newspaper at Peoria, 111., which he was conducting at the time of his death in 1915. He was married to Miss Sadie Jeffries, a native of Bloomington, and to this union one son was born, Alvin B., who lives at Washington, D. C.

Nettie Bills Dement was reared on a farm and attended the district schools, and when she was 12 years of age her parents moved to Pleasant Hill, Mo., where she attended high school. Later, she attended Warrensburg Normal School at Warrensburg, Mo., and Christian College at Camden Point, Mo. In June, 1881, Mrs. Dement began teaching school in District No. 80 in Randolph Township, McLean County, where she remained for three years, at which time she organized the school at Colfax, 111., and was made superintendent. President Edwards of Normal and County Superintendent Miller were her helpmates in this project. In 1892 Mrs. Dement resigned her position and the following year on Dec. 25th she was married to George R. Dement, a native of Lexington, 111., and the son of George T. and Ann E. (Richmond) Dement. He was one of the most successful and prominent men of McLean County. Mr. and Mrs. George R. Dement have had no children but reared Mrs. Dement's nephew, Alvin B. Bills, and he made his home with them until he was 18 years of age.

After her marriage, Nettie Bills Dement lived at Quincy, 111., for a short time, where her husband was engaged in the insurance business, and they later moved to Lexington, on account of the illness of Mr. Dement's mother. She resumed her teaching there and taught for 25 years and spent each summer either in teaching school or attending Chicago University and Chicago Institute. Among the numerous courses Mrs. Dement has taken is a course in home economics. She has always been ambitious and persevering, which accounts for her unusual success in life.

In politics Mrs. Dement is a Democrat and in 1923 she was elected superintendent of McLean County schools. She is a member of the State Parent Teachers' Association, the McLean County Historical Society, the Illinois State Teachers' Association, the National Educational Association and the Women's Christian Temperance Union. Nettie Bills Dement is a woman of deep convictions, unselfish principles, and strong attachments. Since childhood she has been a member of the Christian Church.

Dr. William Henry Welch, a well known veterinarian at Lexington, is a member of one of McLean County's prominent pioneer families. He was born on a farm four and one-half miles southeast of Bloomington, May 7, 1871, the son of Jeremiah and Sarah (Myers) Welch.

Jeremiah Welch was a native of Vigo County, Ind., born in 1826, the son of Solomon and Susan (Jacoby) Welch. He came to McLean County in 1835 and located on land near Bloomington and became one of the leading farmers and stockmen of that section. Mr. Welch was also a dealer in horses and on different occasions sold three teams of fine horses for $1,000.00 a team. He died in 1897, and his wife, who was a native of Kentucky, died Jan. 11, 1906. She was the daughter of John G. and Mary (Lindley) Myers, who settled on the present site of the McLean County farm. Mr. and Mrs. Jeremiah Welch were the parents of five children, as follows : Mary, deceased, was the wife of Louis K. Calhoun ; Louella, deceased ; Minerva, married Charles C. Wagner, lives in Bloomington; John F., engaged in the real estate business at Bloomington; and Dr. William Henry, the subject of this sketch.

Dr. William Henry Welch spent his boyhood on the farm and attended the district schools, Illinois Wesleyan University, and was graduated from the Chicago Veterinary College in 1892. He then located at Lexington to practice his profession, and since that time has built up a splendid practice. Dr. Welch is widely known as a man of exceptional ability in his profession.

On May 7, 1895, Dr. Welch was married to Miss Elizabeth Kilgore, a native of Lawndale Township, McLean County, born June 1, 1871, and the daughter of Thomas B. and Mary E. (Batterton) Kilgore, the former a native of Franklin County, Ohio, and the latter of Kentucky. Mr. Kilgore now lives retired at Bloomington. Dr. and Mrs. Welch have two daughters, Eleanor, a graduate of the Frances Shimer School of the University of Chicago, and Laurastine, a senior in Lexington Community High School. Mrs. Welch attended Illinois Wesleyan University and is a prominent club woman of Lexington. She served as vice-president of the McLean County Home Bureau, is a charter member of the Women's Club, and has held other offices of importance.

Dr. Welch was elected president of the American Veterinary Medical Association at its annual meeting held in St. Louis, Aug. 28, 1922. He has served as secretary of the Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association from 1901 until 1906, and was honored by his colleagues with the presidency of that association in 1906, and under his administration the state association increased its membership from 70 to 300. In connection with his practice, Dr. Welch took up the breeding of Percheron horses and continued in this line until 1916. His farm was the home of "Apollon," considered by many as the greatest son of "Besique." Dr. Welch still owns a farm of 242 acres in Hardin County, Ohio, but sold his farm in Livingston County, 111., in 1912.

Dr. Welch is a Republican and has served as a member of the school board for 15 years and also as a member of the city council. He served as mayor of Lexington for two years and is a very active member of the Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Welch is vice-president and booster of the local chautauqua association. He is a member of the board of trustees of the Methodist Church, and is greatly interested in boy scout work. He is prominent in Masonic circles as a member of the Consistory, Chapter and Council, has held a commission as grand lecturer for six years and served as district deputy grand master for two years, and has been past worshipful master of his lodge.

Dr. Charles E. Chapin, a widely known physician of McLean County, who has been successfully engaged in the practice of his profession at Bloomington for over 26 years, is a native of Illinois, and a member of one of the pioneer families of this state. He was born in DeWitt County, Jan. 29, 1866, a son of Stillman A. and Susan (Lafferty) Chapin.

Stillman A. Chapin was born in Madison County, 111., in 1821 and his wife was a native of Ohio, born in 1823. Mr. Chapin was engaged in farming for many years in DeWitt County, 111., and in 1892 removed to Holder, McLean County, where they spent the remainder of their lives. They were the parents of seven children, as follows: John, who died at the age of four years; Dr. Hiram S., deceased; and Dr. Samuel L., deceased, both of whom were physicians ; Mary H. ; William A., died in infancy ; Finis Ewing, died at the age of three years ; and Dr. Charles E., the subject of this sketch.

High School. He entered Rush Medical College at Chicago, where he was graduated with the degree of Doctor of Medicine in 1891. He then engaged in the practice of his profession at Melvin, 111., for three years. Later he served on the medical staff of the Hospital for the Insane at Jacksonville until 1897. He then came to Bloomington, where he has since been engaged in practice, meeting with uniform success until he has become one of the leading physicians of this section of the state.

Dr. Chapin was married May 8, 1889, to Miss Elizabeth Sterling, a native of McLean County, and a daughter of Smauel and Martha (West) Sterling, early settlers in the vicinity of LeRoy, McLean County. To Dr. and Mrs. Chapin has been born one child, Arnett Sterling Chapin.

Dr. Chapin is a Democrat and he and Mrs. Chapin are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a member of the County, State, and American Medical Association.

Dr. Edson B. Hart has been a successful and well known physician and surgeon of Bloomington for the past 21 years. He was born at El Paso, 111., in 1868, and is the son of Allen and Martha A. (Baldridge) Hart.

Allen Hart was a native of New York city. When he was a young man he went to Zanesville, Ohio, where he engaged in the mercantile business. He was among the early settlers of Woodford County, 111., having come here before the Illinois Central Railroad was built. He purchased land four miles west of Kappa. He died at El Paso in 1880. Mrs. Hart, who was born in Ohio, lives at 1112 Fell Avenue, Bloomington. To Mr. and Mrs. Hart seven children were born as follows: Harvey, an attorney, who died five years ago; Laura M., lives at 1112 Fell Ave., Bloomington; W. A., LaJunta, Colo.; Clara Kennedy, lives at Normal, 111.; John H., lives at 401 Phoenix Ave., Bloomington; Dr. Edson B., the subject of this sketch; and Esther Hawks, who lives with her mother and sister.

Dr. Edson B. Hart was reared on his father's farm in Woodford County and was graduated from Illinois Wesleyan University and from Northwestern University Medical School in 1900. His graduate work was taken at Lincoln hospital in New York city in 1902. Dr. Hart then came to Bloomington and took up the practice of medicine and surgery.

He has been a member of the Brokaw hospital staff since 1903 and is known throughout the county as a thoroughly competent physician and surgeon.

In 1911 Dr. Hart was married to Miss Louis Howell, a native of Arrowsmith, 111., and the daughter of Vinton and Frances (Hill) Howell, the former a native of Ohio and the latter of Vermont. Mr. Howell died in 1911 and his wife died in 1903. To. Dr. and Mrs. Hart four children have been born: Jane, Ruth, Edson and Harvey.

In politics Dr. Hart is a Republican, but in local affairs is an independent voter. He is a member of the Grace Methodist Church and his wife belongs to the Episcopal Church. Dr. Hart says the only fine ever paid by him is his income tax, which he considers a penalty imposed on thrift.

Dr. Joseph K. P. Hawks, who has practiced his profession in Bloomington for over 23 years with honor and exceptional ability, is a veteran of the World War. He was born in Bloomington, Aug. 9, 1873, and is a son of Samuel L. and Emeline (Preston) Hawks.

Samuel L. Hawks was born in Scotland, March 7, 1832, and his wife was born at Beverly, Mass., Aug. 29, 1840. In 1856 they came to Bloomington where Mr. Hawks was employed as engineer on the Chicago & Alton Railroad. Later he was appointed superintendent of air brakes. He was the engineer on the train that took the Bloomington fire department to Chicago during the big fire in that city in 1871. Mr. Hawks died Jan. 2, 1905, and his wife died Dec. 15, 1916. They were the parents of one child, Dr. Joseph K. P. Hawks, the subject of this sketch. By a former marriage Mr. Hawks had two sons, Robert E., and Lute B., both deceased.

Dr. Hawks was reared and educated in Bloomington and is a graduate of Illinois Wesleyan University and of the medical school of Northwestern University. He has practiced his profession in Bloomington since 1900, and for 13 years was associated with the late Dr. W. E. Guthrie, and since then has been associated with Drs. C. E. Chapin and E. B. Hart. From 1908 to 1918 Dr. Hawks was attendant physician of the Soldiers' Orphans' Home at Normal. He is a member of the staff of Brokaw Hos- pital and specializes in surgery. Besides his extensive private practice, Dr. Hawks is surgeon for the Illinois Light & Power Company, the New York Central Railroad and the Nickel Plate Railroad.

During the World War Dr. Hawks volunteered for service in May, 1918, and received his commission as captain in the medical corps, Aug. 31, 1918, with orders to report to the Medical Officers Training Camp at Camp Greenleaf, Ga. After a few weeks in the training camp, he was ordered to report to Evacuation Hospital No. 46 for service overseas. This unit was not sent across and he remained with it until it was demobolized, receiving his discharge, Dec. 24, 1918. Dr. Hawks' offices are located at 212 Griesheim Building.

On Feb. 3, 1912, Dr. Hawks was married to Miss Esther D. Hart, a native of Kappa, 111., and the daughter of Allen and Martha Anne (Baldridge) Hart, former a native of New York and the latter of Ohio. Mr. Hart died in 1879 and his widow resides in Bloomington. To Dr. and Mrs. Hawks two children have been born : Esther Josephine, a student, and Allen Hart, now three years of age.

Dr. Hawks is a Republican and a member of the First Presbyterian Church. His wife belongs to the Grace Methodist Church. He is a member of Wade Barney Lodge No. 512, A. F. & A. M., DeMolay Commandery, Knight Templars, and Bloomington Consistory. Dr. Hawks is interested in agriculture and both he and his wife own and operate farms in McLean County.

Dr. HarJan H. Hart is a prominent young physician and surgeon of Bloomington, where he was born May 20, 1894. He is a son of Harvey and Gertrude (Carlock) Hart.

Harvey Hart was born on a farm west of Kappa, 111., where he spent his boyhood. He taught school in La Junta, Colo., in early life after finishing college at Illinois Wesleyan. He later returned to Bloomington and studied law, graduating from Wesleyan Law School in 1892. After being admitted to the bar Mr. Hart practiced his profession in Bloomington until the time of his death, Aug. 22, 1916. He was a Republican and held the office of Master in Chancery at the time of his death. Mr. Hart was a law partner of R. L. Fleming. Mrs. Hart, who was born on a farm north of Carlock, 111., now lives at 1113 East Monroe Street, Bloomington. There were two children in the Hart family: Dean C, born in December, 1890, died in July, 1911; and Dr. Harlan H., the subject of this sketch.

Dr. Harlan H. Hart attended the public schools of Bloomington and Illinois Wesleyan University. He was graduated from Northwestern University Medical School in 1920 and served his internship in Lakeside Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio. On Aug. 1, 1921, Dr. Hart began the practice of medicine and surgery in Bloomington, -where he is associated with the firm of Hart and Hawks.

On Sept. 27, 1919, Dr. Hart was married in Chicago to Miss Rachel Harber, a native of Bloomington, and a daughter of Edgar and Fannie (Price) Harber, natives of Illinois. Mr. Harber died in 1906 and his wife died four years later.

In politics Dr. Hart is identified with the Republican party. He is a member of the Christian Church and is a progressive man in his profession.

Tilden M. Patton, well known mayor, prosperous farmer and insurance writer of Lexington, is descended from one of McLean County's oldest and most prominent families. He was born at Lexington, 111., Sept. 20, 1886, and is the son of William and Anna (Woodard) Patton.