McLean County, Illinois - Chapter 35: Miscellaneous, Continued, 1924 (part 7 of 8)

The Pattons were the first white settlers of Lexington Township and John Patton, great grandfather of the subject of this sketch, built the first log cabin in Section 22, Lexington Township, which, still stands. It was built in 1820 and John Patton was the only white man in the township that attended the log raising. Shortly afterward his family built a log Methodist Church at Pleasant Hill, which was one of the earliest churches of the county. William Patton was a prominent pioneer farmer of McLean County and he married Miss Kate Cane, a native of Indiana, and to this union several children were born, among them being William, father of the subject of this sketch.

William Patton was born Aug. 11, 1852, and died March 20, 1912. He was a successful farmer like his father William and grandfather John, and owned one of the well improved farms of Lexington Township.

Tilden M. Patton's maternal grandfather, James Woodard, was reared to manhood on his father's farm, and received his education in the rural schools. He remained with his parents until he was 23 years old, when he was married to Miss Luana Evans, daughter of Samuel Evans of Morgan County, Ind. After his marriage he settled on a farm six miles southeast of Lexington, owned by Mrs. Smith, which consisted of 98 acres, which he afterward purchased. At this time Mr. Woodard had but little means and went in debt for two-thirds of the little farm he purchased. To this he added 1700 acres more of McLean County land. At his death, in addition to his land, he was a large stockholder in the Peoples Bank and owned something over $100,000 worth of personal property. He died in 1913, and his wife 1909. He and his good wife were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

In the year 1875, on the 18th day of March, William Patton was married to Miss Anna Woodard, the oldest daughter of James and Luana Woodard. Anna Patton was born in Morgan County, Ind., Dec. 1, 1856. She is now one of Lexington's large land owners and a stockholder in the Peoples Bank. To them were born three children, of whom only our subject, Tilden, is living. When Tilden was five years old his parents moved to Clinton, Mo., where he spent his first eight years of schooling. From there they moved to Jackson county, Ore., where he finished his education by graduating from the high school of Central Point, Ore., and he also attended business college at that place.

In his early manhood he was employed in the gold mines of the western coast. In the year 1907, Tilden, with his parents, moved back to Illinois on their farm, five miles southeast of Lexington, at which place he was successfully engaged in farming and stock raising until 1915 when he moved to Lexington and engaged in the insurance business. Mr. Patton is a large land owner in Lexington Township and owns 160 acres in Indiana, and is one of the largest stockholders in the Peoples Bank of which he is a director. He was elected mayor of Lexington in April, 1923, and since the beginning of his administration much has been done in the way of local improvements for Lexington. The streets are to be paved and other important plans for the betterment of the community will be carried out.

After the death of Mrs. Patton, Mr. Tilden Patton adopted a child, Helen, born July 7, 1911, which he desires to raise as his own child. He and his mother, together with his adopted daughter Helen Patton, are living together at their home in Lexington.

Mr. Patton is a director of the Peoples Bank of Lexington and he belongs to the Knights of Pythias, where he devotes most of his interests, and is a 32nd degree Mason and Shriner. He is one of the enterprising and public spirited men of McLean County. Mr. Patton is a Democrat, a member of the school board and has served as alderman since 1915.

Dr. L. M. Magill, a well known and successful dentist of Lexington was born there, Nov. 26, 1871, the son of M. and Frances Susan (Maxwell) Magill.

M. Magill was a native of Erie County, Pa., born in 1821, and he came to Lexington, 111., in the early forties, where he worked at his trade of blacksmith and wagon maker. Some of the wagons made by Mr. Magill are still in use in McLean County. He was married the first time in Pennsylvania to Miss Mary Luce, who died shortly after they came to Illinois. To that union four children were born, all of whom are now deceased. Mr. Magill later married Mrs. Frances Susan Maxwell Shade, a native of Hagerstown, Md., born in 1831. By a former marriage to Lewis Shade, Mrs. Magill had four children, one of whom is now living, William P., who lives at Decatur, 111. To M. and Frances Susan (Maxwell) Magill two children were born, as follows: Garnett, married C. G. Heuring, lives in California; and Dr. L. M., the subject of this sketch. Mr. Magill died in 1895 and his wife died in 1892.

Dr. L. M. Magill was reared in Lexington and received his education in the public and high schools there, after which he attended the Chicago College of Dental Surgery. After receiving his degree, Dr. Magill practiced dentistry at Wenona, III, for 13 years and in 1909 located at Lexington, where he is now located. He has an extensive practice and is efficient in his work.

On June 8, 1910, Dr. Magill was married to Miss Katharine Calhoun, a native of Iroquois County, 111., and the daughter of Rev. J. D. and Vina

(Robinson) Calhoun. Rev. Calhoun served as pastor of Methodist Churches for 50 years and is now pastor of the Federated Churches at Metamora, 111. To. Dr. and Mrs. Magill one child has been born, Lewis Malcolm.

Dr. Magill is a Democrat and is secretary of the Smith Library at Lexington. He is a member of the Methodist Church and belongs to the Knights of Pythias, the Modern Woodmen of America, and is a 32d degree Mason and Shriner. He has long been associated with musical interests of his home town, having been an active member of the Lexington band and serving several terms as president of the Music Club. Dr. Magill is a substantial citizen and stands high in his profession.

John L. Langstaff, well known retired banker of Lexington, and a leading citizen of McLean County, was born on a farm in Licking County, Ohio, June 14, 1841, the son of Henry and Elsie (Wintermute) Langstaff.

The Langstaff family came to Illinois in 1841 from Licking County, Ohio, where Henry Langstaff was born. He worked as a machinist and pattern maker and helped make the first reaper used in this part of the country, which was made by Flag and Ewing of Bloomington. Mrs. Langstaff was born near Brownsville, Fayette County, Pa., and she and her husband, now deceased, are buried in the Evergreen Cemetery near Colfax, 111. They had five children, two of whom are now living, as follows: John L., the subject of this sketch; and Dr. Henry W., a physician, lives at Colfax, 111.

John L. Langstaff lived in Bloomington until he was 14 years old, and his family then moved to a farm in Martin Township, McLean County, where Mr. Langstaff lived until he was 17 years of age. He received his education in the district schools and attended Wesleyan University at Bloomington and Bryant and Stratton College in Chicago. After finishing his school work, Mr. Langstaff was employed as bookkeeper for Charles E. Brown, a contractor of Evanston, 111., where he remained for seven years. In 1870 he came to Lexington and was engaged as bookkeeper in the Harness and Van Dolah Bank and later as assistant cashier. Mr. Langstaff continued in the employ of that bank for 25 years and after the death of Mr. Harness he was made cashier of The State Bank at Lexington, which office he held for nine years, retiring from the banking busi- ness in 1908. He was one of the organizers of The Peoples Bank of Lexington and also served as cashier for one year. Since the time of his retirement Mr. Langstaff has lived in his beautiful home at Lexington. He has been among the successful business men of the county and is a pioneer banker.

On Jan. 28, 1864, Mr. Langstaff was married to Miss Isabella J. Powell, a native of Ohio, and the daughter of Harper and Margaret (Jones) Powell, natives of Ohio, and early settlers of McLean County. Mr. and Mrs. Langstaff had four children, as follows: Louie, Irene and Asa, deceased ; and Margaret, married B. C. VanLeer, lives at Bloomington. Mrs. Langstaff died in 1919 at the age of 70 years.

Mr. Langstaff is a Republican, a member of the Methodist Church, and belongs to the Masonic Lodge. He is one of the interesting men of his community, and a highly respected citizen of McLean County.

Louis C. Hay, attorney of Bloomington, is recognized as one of the representative members of the bar of McLean County. He was born in Montezuma, Pike County, 111., Feb. 10, 1866, and is the son of John L. and Maria (Kinman) Hay.

John L. Hay was a native of Winfield, N. Y., born in 1836, the son of John and Hannah (Ferguson) Hay, the former a native of Winfield, N. Y., and the latter of Montpelier, Vt. John Hay, great-great-grandfather of Louis C. Hay, was born in Cassel Hessen, Germany, and came to the United States the first year of the Revolutionary War. He joined the Continental army and after the close of the war settled in Winfield, N. Y., where the Hay family lived for four generations. John Hay, grandfather of the subject of this sketch, was a blacksmith and wagon maker at Winfield, N. Y., and was killed in his power mill when his son, John L., was but four months old. His wife was later married to Abner Waters.

John L. Hay was a school teacher for several years and later engaged in farming in Green County, 111. He died in 1867. There were two children in the Hay family: Nellie, who died at the age of three years; and Louis C, the subject of this sketch.

Louis C. Hay

tion in the district schools and at the age of 16 years came to Bloomington. He attended Illinois Wesleyan University and was graduated from the law department in 1888. Since that time he has been actively engaged in the practice of his profession there. Mr. Hay was located in the Peoples Bank Building until 1909 when he moved to the Pantagraph Building.

Mr. Hay is a Republican, a member of the Second Presbyterian Church, is a 32nd degree Mason, and a member of the Shrine of Peoria. He also belongs to the Knights of Pythias and the Elks lodge of Bloomington. He is unmarried.

George E. Brown, popular garage owner of Lexington and authorized Ford dealer, is a native of McLean County and one of its prominent and successful business men. He was born on a farm in Money Creek Township, Aug. 30, 1868, the son of Asa and Elizabeth (Swoortwood) Brown.

Asa Brown was born in Muskingum County, Ohio, in 1840 and died in 1919. He was among the earliest settlers of Ilinois and settled on a farm in McLean County in 1854. His wife, a native of Monroe County, Ohio, died in 1919 at the age of 74 years. Mr. and Mrs. Brown had eight children, one of whom is deceased. George E., the subject of this sketch, is the second in order of birth.

George E. Brown grew up on his father's farm and received his education in the district schools. He worked as a farm hand for five years and then rented land in McLean County for 18 years. In 1903 he purchased 160 acres of land in Money Creek Township, which he still owns. He was widely known as a breeder of pure-bred cattle for 20 years and brought his stock to Lexington, from where he shipped to Chicago twice each week for 15 years. In 1908 Mr. Brown moved to Lexington and engaged in the meat business with L. C. Wheaton for three years, at which time Mr. Brown sold his interest in the business to Mr. Wheaton. He has had the agency for Ford automobiles and tractors since 1913 and has been in his present location since 1917. Mr. Brown has been very successful with his business and is well known throughout the county.

Mr. Brown was married on March 12, 1890, to Miss Margaret Rankin, a native of Money Creek Township, McLean County, and the daughter of John and Mary Jane (Moats) Rankin, the former a native of Ohio and the latter of McLean County. To George E. and Margaret (Rankin) Brown two children have been born, as follows: Bernard, engaged in business with his father; and Zelda, married Lloyd Worth, lives in Chicago, and they have two children, George William and Junior Worth.

Mr. Brown is identified with the Democratic party in politics and for the past nine years has served as township assessor of Lexington Township. In 1915 he was elected mayor of Lexington, held the office for two years, and in 1919 was again elected for a term of four years, having completed his term of office in 1923. Mr. Brown was supervisor of Money Creek Township from 1905 until 1907, and was also for nine years assessor of the same township. He has served as school director and was instrumental in having the new school in district No. 211 built. He is a director of the Peoples Bank of Lexington and belongs to the Knights of Pythias and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Mr. Brown is a member of the Christian Church and a substantial citizen.

Dr. L. W. Moore is a prominent veterinary surgeon of Lexington and a member of one of Bloomington's oldest and most prominent families. He was born at Bloomington, June 11, 1876, the son of Dr. D. 0. and Elizabeth (Wakefield) Moore.

Dr. D. 0. Moore, a leading physician and surgeon of Bloomington for many years, was born on a farm in Harrison County, Ohio, and studied medicine at Cincinnati, Ohio. In 1858 he came to Bloomington and took up the practice of medicine and he became one of the most successful physicians of his time. Dr. Moore did much to help in the development of the water works at Bloomington and during his life was a prominent citizen. He served as alderman of Bloomington during the early days and died in 1901 when he was 62 years of age. Beside his practice of medicine Dr. Moore conducted a drug store at Bloomington. He was a Republican and a member of the Presbyterian Church. Mrs. Moore now lives at 401 East Grove Street, Bloomington. They were the parents of four children, as follows: William, deceased; D. D., a druggist at Bloomington, 111. ; Dr. L. W., the subject of this sketch ; and Edna May, lives at Bloomington.

ther's drug store and later in the Palmer-Darnell Carriage Factory. In 1906 he entered the Chicago Veterinary College at Chicago, from which he was graduated in 1909. Dr. Moore then took up the practice of his profession at Lexington, where he has since been located. He has been efficient and successful in his work and is widely known.

Dr. Moore is a member of the American Veterinary Association and the Illinois State Veterinary Association. He is a Republican and a member of the Knights of Pythias and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.

D. F. Trimmer, retired, is a highly esteemed and prominent citizen of McLean County. He was born on a farm in Money Creek Township, McLean County, July 27, 1851, the' son of Jesse and Amanda (Gilmore) Trimmer.

Jesse Trimmer was a native of Huntington County, N. J., born in 1817, and the son of John Trimmer, one of the earliest settlers of McLean County. John Trimmer had a claim in Money Creek Township and brought his wife and eight children here from New Jersey. They made the trip in wagons and traveled by foot a great deal. After looking the land over, John Trimmer walked to Wisconsin, and his purchases of land ranged from $1.25 per acre to $50.00. He owned 2,200 acres of land in Money Creek Township and donated land for the Trimmer District School, which is still in existence. Mr. Trimmer's picture hangs in the school building and he is regarded as one of the leading pioneers of McLean County.

Jesse Trimmer followed farming like his father, and met with marked success. He owned large tracts of land, which he had inherited from his father. In 1839 Mr. Trimmer was married to Miss Amanda Gilmore, a native of Fayette County, Ohio, and to this union eight children were born, three of whom are now living, as follows : John, lives at Rockf ord, Colo. ; Sarah, married Joseph Scott, lives at Pasadena, Calif. ; and D. F., the subject of this sketch. Mr. Trimmer died in 1873 and his wife died several years later.

D. F. Trimmer spent his boyhood on the farm and received his education in the district schools, and also attended Normal University and Eureka College. After finishing his schooling, Mr. Trimmer taught school for one term in Money Creek Township and after becoming heir to 240 acres of land he engaged in general farming and stock raising. Mr. Trim- mer now owns 700 acres of well-improved land and for many years was a progressive and enterprising farmer. He has lived at Lexington since 1870, where he owns a fine home.

Mr. Trimmer was married on Sept. 9, 1874, to Miss Josephine McAferty, a native of Money Creek Township, born Nov. 20, 1851, and the daughter of William and Amanda (Richardson) McAferty, the former a native of Ohio and the latter of Illinois. Mr. and Mrs. Trimmer have had four children, as follows: Theron F., lives in Lexington Township; Myrtle, deceased ; Ivy J., teaches music at Lexington ; and Mortimer, deceased.

In politics Mr. Trimmer is a Republican and he has served as school director for a number of years. He is a member of the Christian Church, having joined at the age of 15 years, and he also belongs to the state and county historical societies. Mr. Trimmer has written many interesting articles for The Pantagraph of Bloomington and he is an ardent student of history. When he was a boy of 13 years he attended the funeral of President Lincoln at Springfield, 111., and he was the youngest boy to attend the services. Mr. Trimmer stands high in the community and has many friends and acquaintances.

Frank C. Wise, one of the capable and excellent citizens of Lexington, now living retired, is a member of one of the early pioneer families of Illinois. He was born in Yates Township, McLean County, May 19, 1870, the son of Charles and Pauline (Barnek) Wise.

Charles Wise was born at Baden, Germany, Dec. 25, 1838, and came to the United States with his parents when he was 14 years of age. They settled on a farm near Pekin, 111., and in 1854 came to Lexington, where Mr. Wise became a prosperous farmer and stockman. He owned 300 acres of land and was widely known as a breeder of pure-bred stock. Mr. Wise served with Company C, 94th Illinois Volunteer Infantry, throughout the Civil War. He died Jan. 1, 1888. Pauline (Barnek) Wise was born in Austria, Feb. 26, 1850, and was two years old when her parents came to this country. She now lives with her son, Frank C, the subject of this sketch. Mr. and Mrs. Charles Wise had three children, of whom Frank C. is the only one now living.

the Evergreen Business College of Bloomington. After finishing his schooling, Mr. Wise engaged in general farming in Chenoa Township and became one of the prosperous and widely known stockmen of the county. He retired in 1904 after suffering from paralysis, and now lives at Lexington. Mr. Wise with his mother owns 800 acres of good farm land in McLean County.

Mr. Wise was married on October 27, 1897, to Miss Eleanor Lawrence, a native of Lexington Township, and the daughter of Captain Harrison and Cynthia (Smalley) Lawrence. Captain Lawrence served throughout the Civil War and settled in McLean County after the Civil War. To Frank C. and Eleanor (Lawrence) Wise one child was born, Pauline Gertrude, the wife of Dr. John L. Dies, and they live at Memphis, Tenn., where he practices medicine and surgery. Mrs. Dies is a graduate of Lexington High School, National Park Seminary at Washington, D. C, and also attended the University of Illinois for one year.

Mr. Wise is a director and stockholder of The Peoples Bank of Lexington. He is a Republican, a member of the Methodist Church, and belongs to the Masonic Lodge and the Knights of Pythias.

John Shaver, a well-known retired farmer of Lexington, was born in Fulton County, 111., Aug. 12, 1850, the son of George and Margaret (Mc- Elhaney) Shaver.

The Shaver family came to Illinois from Huntington County, Pa., and settled on a farm in Fulton County. They made the trip in covered wagons and were among the first settlers of Illinois. Mr. and Mrs. George Shaver had eight children, three of whom are now living, as follows: Mary Katherine, the widow of Lewis Zoll, lives in Oklahoma; John, the subject of this sketch; and Samuel, lives in Fulton County, 111.

John Shaver grew to manhood on his father's farm in Fulton County and received his education in the district schools. When he was 23 years of age Mr. Shaver came to McLean County and purchased land in Blue Mound and Lexington townships. He followed general farming until 1896 when he moved to Cooksville, 111., where he remained until 1909. Mr. Shaver then moved to Lexington and built a fine home in the east end of town, which he later sold. Mr. and Mrs. Shaver reside at the corner of Vine and Chestnut Streets, in Lexington. They own 520 acres of wellimproved land.

On Nov. 28, 1878, Mr. Shaver was united in marriage with Miss Sarah Woodard, a native of Morgan County, Ind., and the daughter of James and Luany (Evans) Woodard. The Woodards came to McLean County from Indiana in 1860 and at the time of his death Mr. Woodard owned over 1,800 acres of land. Mr. and Mrs. Woodard had five children, of whom Mrs. Shaver was the second in order of birth. Mr. and Mrs. Shaver have no children.

Wesley P. Franklin, deceased, was a native of Illinois and a prominent citizen of McLean County for many years. He was born on a farm in Owen County, Ind., March 15, 1837, and died April 4, 1920. Mr. Franklin was the son of John and Mary (Puett) Franklin.

John Franklin was a native of North Carolina and in 1818 moved his family to Indiana, where they remained until the late forties, when they came to McLean County, and settled on land in Money Creek Township. Mr. Franklin was a colonel in the state militia of Indiana and died in 1860. He and his wife had 13 children, of whom Wesley P., the subject of this sketch, was the 12th in order of birth.

Wesley P. Franklin spent his entire life on the farm and was successful as a breeder of black Poland Angus cattle and trotting horses. After farming in Lexington Township for many years, Mr. Franklin went to Montana and engaged in stock raising with his son, H. P. Franklin, and they remained at Big Timber, Mont., for 15 years. While there Mr. Franklin organized the Scandinavian American Bank, of which he was president for 15 years. He also served as a member of the Legislature from Montana and died in Montana. There is a memorial window in the Christian Church at Lexington in memory of Mr. Franklin.

On March 23, 1858, Mr. Franklin was united in marriage with Miss Hannah Puett, a native of Indiana, born Feb. 14, 1835. She died July 22, 1915, at Lexington. To Wesley P. and Hannah (Puett) Franklin four children were born, as follows: Estelle F. Mowdy, further mention of whom is made below ; Herschel Puett, lives at Big Timber, Mont. ; Lillian, married Henry North, lives at Minneapolis, Minn. ; and Daisy F. Hamilton, lives at Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Lexington and was graduated from Eureka College, where she studied music. After completing her course in 1887 she studied in New York City and on Aug. 18, 1892, Miss Franklin was married to John L. Mowdy. Mrs. Mowdy has taught music successfully for 40 years and is widely known as an accomplished musician. Mr. and Mrs. Mowdy have one daughter, Edith, who married Allan Ream and they have one daughter, Louise Ream. Mr. and Mrs. Ream live at Oakville, Iowa. Mrs. Mowdy lives at Lexington and she is a member of the Baptist Church. She was the organizer of the Lexington Music Club and is a member of the Lexington Womens Club.

In politics Mr. Franklin was a Democrat and he was a member of the Christian Church. He was an energetic man who stood well in the esteem of his neighbors and fellow citizens.

William A. Smith, a well known retired farmer of Lexington, is a member of one of McLean County's prominent pioneer families. He was born on a farm in Lexington Township, Sept. 27, 1846, the son of Milton and Lydia Ann (Goddard) Smith.

Milton Smith was a native of Kentucky and came to Illinois in 1835, making the trip on horseback. He was born Feb. 19, 1808, and died in 1887. Mr. Smith was among the leading pioneers of Lexington, and helped build the first house there. He was the son of William and Obedience Smith. Mr. and Mrs. Milton Smith were the parents of the following children: Sarah, the widow of Willis Strayer, lives at Lexington; W. A., the subject of this sketch; Fletcher M., lives at Everett, Wash.; Carrie, the widow of A. D. Pierson, lives at Lexington; Kate, the widow of L. D. Poole, a sketch of whom appears in this volume; L. H., a retired farmer, lives at Lexington; George J., a merchant at Lexington; Estelle, married Harry S. Shade, lives at Normal ; and Anna Mary, deceased, was the wife of George B. Okeson.

Milton Smith became a prosperous farmer of McLean County and at one time owned 1,800 acres of land, which was later divided among his children.

William A. Smith has always followed farming and stock raising and has been successful. He received his education in the public and high schools at Bloomington and attended Illinois Wesleyan University. Mr.

Smith remained on the home place until 1870 and in 1871 became heir to his present farm of 287 acres in Lexington Township, which he farmed until 1890 when he moved to Lexington.

On Sept. 8, 1870, Mr. Smith was married to Miss Tinnie Day, a native of Lake County, 111., born Aug. 16, 1852, and the daughter of Rev. Allen and Emma (Townsend) Day, natives of New York. To William A. and Tinnie (Day) Smith three children have been born, as follows: Albert, at home; Vivian, the widow of William Perrill, and she has one son by a former marriage, Kenneth Stone; and Josephine, the wife of G. C. Mericle, lives at Monta Vesta, Colo.

Mr. Smith is a Republican and a member of the Presbyterian Church. He is public spirited and progressive and the Smith family has always stood high in the community.

Arthur Van Dyke Pierson, deceased, was a prominent citizen of McLean County for many years. He was born at Mt. Gilead, Morrow County, Ohio, May 19, 1847, the son of James S. and Mary J. (Morrison) Pierson.

James S. Pierson was a native of Knox County, Ohio, and was born Aug. 7, 1821. In 1853 he brought his family to McLean County and after a short time moved to Menard County, 111. However, in 1855 he returned to McLean County, where he purchased 230 acres of land in Lexington Township. Mr. Pierson was an extensive sheep raiser and was appointed judge of sheep at many state fairs. He died May 19, 1900, and his wife, a native of Jefferson County, Ohio, died March 24, 1915. She was born Sept. 12, 1826, and they were married on July 30, 1846. To James S. and Mary J. (Morrison) Pierson six children were born, as follows: Arthur Van Dyke, the subject of this sketch; Louisa, the widow of D. T. Douglas, lives in Martin Township, McLean County; Emily A., the wife of J. A. Bailey, lives at Los Angeles, Calif.; Eleanor, lives with her sister, Mrs. Douglas; Elmer, deceased; and Grace, deceased, was the wife of Howard McFarland.

Arthur Van Dyke Pierson received his education in the district schools and lived on the home place until the time of his marriage, when he purchased land for himself. He followed farming until 1901, at which time he retired and moved to Lexington, where he died Jan. 16, 1916.

Arthur Van Dyke Pierson

Mr. Pierson was a successful farmer and an excellent citizen. During his life he wrote many articles for The Pantagraph of Bloomington and also for the Lexington papers. One of his best known writings is concerning the lives of Presidents Lincoln and Grant.

On March 30, 1876, Mr. Pierson was united in marriage with Miss Carrie Smith, a native of Lexington Township, born June 13, 1853, and the daughter of Milton and Lydia Ann (Goddard) Smith. Mr. Smith was born in Franklin, Ky., Feb. 19, 1808, and died Feb. 12, 1888. His wife was born at Cincinnati, Ohio, Sept. 23, 1820, and died May 20, 1890. To Arthur Van Dyke and Carrie (Smith) Pierson three children were born, as follows: Lawrence Milton, born Oct. 6, 1878, and killed during a football game at Lake Forest College in Chicago, where he was attending school, on Sept. 28, 1900; Anna N., born May 19, 1882, married Harry Blue, lives on the home place; and Madge, born Oct. 2, 1888, is an invalid and lives with her mother.

Mrs. Carrie Pierson was educated in the public and high schools of Lexington. She is a member of the Presbyterian Church and the Missionary Society. Mrs. Pierson is one of the hospitable and highly esteemed women of McLean County and she has many friends.

Arthur Van Dyke Pierson was a Republican and a member of the Presbyterian Church. When the Smith Library was organized he was elected president of the board. He was one of McLean County's representative and well known citizens.

Alexander Hensley, a well known citizen of McLean County, now living retired at Lexington, is a native of Kentucky. He was born on a farm in Oldham County, Ky., Aug. 10, 1848, the son of Thomas and Nancy (Davis) Hensley.

Thomas Hensley was a tobacco grower in Kentucky, where he was born. He moved his family to Illinois in 1856 and settled on a farm of 80 acres in Blue Mound Township. Mr. Hensley served as a member of the school board for many years and was a deacon of the Christian Church. He died in 1909 at the age of 82 years. His wife died 1898, she being 66 years of age. To Thomas and Nancy (Davis) Hensley six children were born, two of whom are now living: Alexander, the subject of this sketch; and Frank, lives in California. After the death of his first wife Mr. Hensley was later married to Mrs. McCollough, also deceased. (39)

Alexander Hensley was reared on his father's farm and received his education in the district schools. After working as a farm hand for two years he purchased land in Lawndale Township, McLean County, which he farmed until about 10 years ago. Mr. Hensley was a successful farmer and breeder of pure-bred stock. He owns 223 acres of well improved land, which is located in Lawndale, Blue Mound, and in Lexington townships.

Mr. Hensley was married in 1872 to Miss Steary Miles, a native of Ohio and the daughter of E. A. Miles. To Mr. and Mrs. Hensley the following children were born: Lee, deceased; Joseph Albert, lives in Washington; Jay Alexander, lives in Michigan ; Ed, lives at Saxton, Mo. ; Pearl, married Claude Albertson, lives at Indianapolis, Ind. ; Guy, lives in Lawndale Township, McLean County; Thomas Wesley, lives in Blue Mound Township; Edna, married Henry Lindenbaum, lives in Lexington Township; and one child died in infancy.

Thomas A. Dawson, widely known as a breeder of pure bred Shorthorn cattle and Durock Jersey hogs, is the owner of 200 acres of wellimproved land, and a member of one of McLean County's oldest and most prominent families.

The Dawson family is of Welsh extraction and came to America during the first settlement of Virginia. James R. Dawson, grandfather of the subject of this sketch, was born in Bourbon County, Ky., in 1794 and went to Madison County, Ohio, in 1817, where he and his family remained until 1832, when they moved to McLean County. They settled on a farm one and one-half miles southwest of Lexington and were among the earliest settlers of the county. James R. Dawson was a successful farmer and owned 240 acres of land. His wife died three years after coming to Illinois .

John Dawson, father of the subject of this sketch and son of James R. Dawson, was born in Madison County, Ohio, Dec. 4, 1820, and died in 1900. He followed farming during his life and became the owner of 700 acres of land in McLean County. Mr. Dawson went to California in 1875 and remained there four years. He then lived retired at Lexington until the time of his death. He was a member of the Christian Church and a Democrat. Mr. Dawson was married to Miss Arminta Adams, a native of Bourbon County, Ky., born in 1862. They were the parents of eight children, two of whom are now living, as follows: Thomas A., the subject of this sketch; and Orlando, lives retired at Lexington.

Thomas A. Dawson was born in Lexington Township, Oct. 13, 1854, and has always been a farmer. He received his education in the public and high schools of Lexington and attended the university at Normal for five months. Mr. Dawson has owned his own farm since he was 18 years of age, 200 acres which his father gave him. For many years he has specialized in the breeding of pure-bred stock and his farm is among the well improved stock farms of McLean County. His son, Harvey E., now farms with him. In 1890 Mr. and Mrs. Dawson moved to Lexington where they now reside.

Mr. Dawson was married on Jan. 1, 1873, to Miss Arabelle Campbell, a native of Lexington, and the daughter of John and Adeline (Hefner) Campbell, both deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Dawson seven children have been born, as follows: Oscar A., lives in Chicago; Bernard 0., deceased; Austin, lives at Olathe, Kan. ; Arminta, deceased ; Nettie, married B. E. Grimsley, lives in Lexington Township; Alta, married Ralph Payne, lives in Chenoa Township ; and Harvey E., who farms the home place in Chenoa Township. Mr. and Mrs. Dawson have nine grandchildren and one greatgrandchild.

Mr. Dawson is identified with the Democratic party in politics and is a member of the Christian Church. He is well known throughout the county, where he is highly esteemed as a man of progress, industry, and initiative.

L. H. Smith, who now lives retired on his farm near Lexington, is a substantial citizen of McLean County. He was born on a farm in Lexington Township, Aug. 13, 1858, the son of Milton and Lydia Ann (Goddard) Smith.

Milton Smith came to Illinois from Kentucky in 1835, making the trip on horseback. He was born in Franklin County, Ky., Feb. 19, 1808, and died in 1887. Mr. Smith was among the leading pioneers of Lexington, and helped build the first house there. He was the son of William and Obedience Smith. 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., the subject of this sketch ; George J., merchant of Lexington, a sketch of whom appears in this volume; Estelle, married Harry S. Shade, lives at Normal; and Anna Mary, deceased, was the wife of George B. Okeson.

L. H. Smith was reared on his father's farm and attended the district schools. He farmed the home place until 1888, when he purchased his present farm of 30 acres near the city limits of Lexington. Mr. Smith conducts a dairy and has pure-bred Jersey cows.

On Sept. 30, 1879, Mr. Smith was married to Miss Rozilla Ralston, a native of Lexington, and the daughter of Jonathan and Elizabeth (Mc- Nery) Ralston, natives of Pennsylvania and early settlers of McLean County. To L. H. and Rozilla (Ralston) Smith two children have been born, Harold, deceased, and Bessie, at home.

Mr. Smith is a Republican and a member of the Presbyterian Church. He is a man of integrity and ability, a good farmer and an excellent citizen. Mr. Smith has had a hobby for the past 30 years of taking pictures, and he has in his possession a fine collection of photographs taken throughout the state of Illinois.

Robert E. Jones, deceased, was one of McLean County's most prominent and highly respected citizens. He was born at Montgomershire, Wales, Oct. 30, 1843, and died at Lexington, June 12, 1902. Mr. Jones was the son of Richard and Anna (Evans) Jones, natives of Wales, where they spent their entire lives.

Robert E. Jones was reared on his father's farm in Wales and received his education in the schools there. In 1865 he came to the United States and went as far west as Emporia, Kan. After several years Mr. Jones returned to Wales, was married, and returned to this country with his family in 1877. They settled on land near Lexington and Mr. Jones became a prosperous farmer. His first farm consisted of 80 acres, but at the time of his death he owned 160 acres. He was an extensive cattle feeder and also shipped stock.

On June 2, 1869, Mr. Jones was united in marriage with Miss Rebecca Hughes, a native of Wales, born July 30, 1843, and the daughter of Morris and Elizabeth (Evans) Hughes. To Robert E. and Rebecca (Hughes) Jones eight children were born, as follows: Morris T., grocer at Lexington ; Elizabeth Ann, the widow of William Cochran, lives in Chicago; Nellie Jane, the widow of L. 0. Carnahan, and she conducts the N. J. Carnahan Dry Goods Company at Lexington; Richard G., state inspector of highway equipment, lives at Lexington; Emlyn Ivor, an attorney at Seattle, Wash., is a graduate of the University of Michigan; Winnie, a graduate of the University of Michigan and teacher of latin and history in Detroit before her marriage to John Nettleship, and they are now abroad; Sarah Florence, a graduate of the school of music at the University of Michigan, and she now teaches music and art at Quincy, 111. ; and Ora Margaret, a graduate of the University of Michigan, for a number of years secretary to the grand master of the state of Illinois Masonry, and she is now married to Athur Millard, lives at Chicago. Mrs. Jones has 21 grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Mrs. Robert E. Jones is a member of the Presbyterian Church, a member of the Women's Christian Temperance Union, and also belongs to the McLean County Historical Society. She has always taken an active interest in public welfare, especially educational affairs, and she has traveled extensively, having made five trips abroad. Mrs. Jones' daughter, Mrs. Carnahan, is a member of the Lexington Board of Education. She has one son, Charles, who married Louise Van Dolah, and they have one daughter, Given.

Robert E. Jones was a staunch supporter of the Republican party and served as road commissioner for several years. He was a well educated man and a representative man of affairs in Lexington and McLean County.

Lewis C. Wheaton is an extensive stock buyer of Lexington and the owner of 305 acres of well improved land. He was born at Decatur, 111., April 6, 1860, the son of James S. and Emma (Dawson) Wheaton.

James S. Wheaton was a native of Fayette County, Ohio, as also was his wife. He died in 1862 at the age of 28 years, leaving one son, Lewis C, the subject of this sketch. Mr. Wheaton was a butcher by trade and in partnership with Mr. Wickoff, who is still in the meat business. In 1873

Mrs. Wheaton was married to Jesse Stretch, and to that union one son was born, Harry H. Stretch, who lives at Normal. Mrs. Stretch died in 1919 at the age of 81 years.

Lewis C. Wheaton is a self-made man. He received his education in the district schools and lived on his step-father's farm until 1881, when he began buying stock. Mr. Wheaton's first farm was in Gridley Township and he now owns land there and also in DeWitt County, 111. He has been a leading stockman of McLean County for many years and is also a feeder of stock. Mr. Wheaton dealt in fine horses for many years also, and sold them throughout the United States. In 1912 he moved to Lexington, where he owns a fine residence in the southeast part of town. He devotes his entire time to the buying and shipping of stock.

On Oct. 2, 1906, Mr. Wheaton was united in marriage with Miss Minnie Atonia Claggett, a native of Culpeper County, Va., and the daughter of Thomas and Columbia (Claggett) Claggett, early settlers of McLean County. Although Mr. and Mrs. Wheaton have no children of their own they have reared and educated two, Elmer J. Roy, a son of Mrs. Wheaton's sister, and Alice Ambrose, a daughter of Albert and Belle Ambrose.

Mr. Wheaton is a Republican and for five years served as township assessor of El Paso Township, McLean County. He belongs to the Knights of Pythias and is an enterprising citizen of McLean County.

John S. Johnston, deceased, was a veteran of the Civil War and one of the successful and enterprising farmers of McLean County. He was born at Hellers Corner, Ind., Dec. 1, 1838, the son of Charles and Rebecca (Stevenson) Johnston.

Charles Johnston was a native of New Jersey, and his wife was born at Xenia, Ohio. He went to Ohio when he was a young man, married there, and then brought his family to Illinois during the early days. They settled on a farm west of Danvers, and later moved to White Oak Township, where Mr. Johnston became a large landowner and successful farmer. There were nine children in the Johnston family, as follows: James S., deceased; Mary N., deceased, was the wife of Charles Barnes, and he lives at Mound City, Kan.; John S., the subject of this sketch; Martha Jane, deceased, was the wife of W. J. Baldridge ; Joseph Henry, deceased ; Cath- erine, deceased, was the wife of Henry Wright; Rebecca, the widow of John A. Benson, lives at Middlepoint, Ohio; Amanda, deceased, was the wife of S. C. Kirkpatrick; and Sarah, married Alonzo McKinney, lives at Normal, 111.

John S. Johnston grew to manhood on his father's farm and received his education in the district schools and at Illinois Wesleyan University. At the outbreak of the Civil War he enlisted with the 3rd Illinois Volunteer Cavalry and served for three years and three months, and was raised to the rank of sergeant. After the close of the war, Mr. Johnston returned to McLean County and engaged in general farming and stock raising. He owned 240 acres of land and was a breeder of good stock, and also an extensive cattle feeder. He came to Hudson, 111., in January, 1889, and died Feb. 5, 1905.

On Jan. 1, 1865, Mr. Johnston was married to Miss Martha Elizabeth Havens, a native of Hudson Township, McLean County, born Feb. 11, 1841, and the daughter of Hiram and Sarah Ann (Trimmer) Havens. The Havens family came from Licking County, Ohio, to McLean County, and Jesse Havens, grandfather of Mrs. Johnston, settled at Hudson, 111., in 1826, on land now known as Haven's Grove. He was the first postmaster of Hudson. Mrs. John S. Johnston, who died Feb. 15, 1887, was one of the first students to be enrolled at Illinois State Normal, at Normal. Her father, Hiram Havens, was known as Squire Havens and was one of the prominent farmers of Hudson Township. At one time in the winter he shot a wild deer near his home. He walked through the woods, following the steps of the deer, and when he came upon it a man was skinning it. Mr. Havens discovered that the man had also shot the deer, both their bullets striking at the same spot, although the bullets left the body at different spots.

To John S. and Martha Elizabeth (Havens) Johnston six children were born, as follows: Lora, further mention of whom is made below; Aura, a farmer, lives in Hudson Township; Grace, lives at Hudson, 111.; Mae, lives at Hudson, 111. ; Emma, married J. A. King, lives at Atlanta, 111. ; and Sarah R., married Chester A. King, lives at Normal, 111.

Lora Johnston was born and reared in White Oak Township and attended Illinois Wesleyan University, and later taught school for six years. In 1903 Miss Johnston was appointed postmistress of Hudson, 111., which office she held until July, 1915. She was acting postmistress from Jan. 24th until April 24th, 1923, and later appointed postmistress again, which office she now holds. Miss Johnston is local correspondent for The Panta- graph of Bloomington and she is one of the interesting and refined women of the community. After the death of her mother and father, she assumed the role of provider and brought up her brothers and sisters. During the World War Miss Johnston was very active in the Red Cross work. She was chairman of the organization for Hudson Township and devoted all her time to the cause.

In politics Mr. Johnston was a Republican and he was a member of the Methodist Church. He was an industrious, energetic man, who held the high esteem of his neighbors.

William G. Long, now living retired at Lexington, has been a prominent farmer and stockman of McLean County for many years. He was born in Spencer County, Ind., March 25, 1847, the son of C. W. and Harriet (Franklin) Long.

C. W. Long was bom in Kentucky and at the age of 16 years went to Missouri and later to Indiana, where he farmed for a number of years. He later returned to Missouri and was a prominent breeder of horses in Lincoln County and sold his horses at St. Louis during the early days. Mr. Long moved his family to McLean County at the time of the building of the Chicago and Alton Railroad through that county and he built a hotel at Lexington with Noah Franklin. Mr. Long was married the first time to Harriet Franklin, a native of Indiana, who died in 1863 at the age of 36 years, and to this union three children were born, as follows: Mary Elizabeth, the widow of R. S. Dement, lives at Chicago, 111.; William G., the subject of this sketch; and Nancy Emma, deceased, was the wife of George Mahon. After the death of his first wife Mr. Long was married to Miss Jane Pollard and they moved to Odessa, Mo., where he died in 1891. To this union five children were born, one of whom is now living, Clara, the widow of Mr. Gilbert, and she lives at Odessa, Mo.

William G. Long was reared and educated in Lexington and was employed as a clerk in the general store of George T. Dement and Company. He then followed general farming in Lexington Township, where he owned 217 acres of land. After several years of farming Mr. Long's health failed and he went to San Diego, Calif., where he worked as a street car conductor for four and one-half years. He returned to Lexington, 111., in 1895, and again followed farming and stock raising until

1915, when he retired and moved to Lexington. After selling his farm in Lexington Township, Mr. Long purchased 320 acres of land in Indiana, which he sold one year later. In the 80's Mr. Long made some improvements as to road graveling. He built one mile of gravel road from the Mackinaw river bridge near his farm to Lexington at a cost of $1,000. The road was 10 feet wide and one foot deep. Mr. Long states that this was the first gravel road built in the state of Illinois. He donated the gravel and another man and himself with two teams did the construction. The money was donated by the Lexington business men; the farmers did the hauling.

On Aug. 16, 1870, Mr. Long was united in marriage with Miss Emma P. Flesher, a native of Lexington Township, born in a log cabin, April 29, 1852. She was the daughter of Andrew J. and Sarah (Brown) Flesher and came to Lexington to live when she was 12 years of age. Her father was a well known lumber dealer there. Mrs. Long died Dec. 10, 1920. Mrs. W. G. Long was a very loving wife, a devout Christian woman. For many years she was organist in the Presbyterian Church and later the Methodist Church of which she was a member. She was a great helpmate to her husband. They were as one in all things. Mr. and Mrs. Long had no children but adopted a son, R. H. Long, who now lives at Montgomery, Ala., where he raises pure bred cattle. He has two sons, Robert and Clarence Long.

Mr. Long has served on the city council and is a firm believer in prohibition. He is a member of the Methodist Church and has held many offices in his church. He is a respected citizen of his community.

Frank Allison, a retired farmer of Lexington Township, is a prominent and substantial citizen of McLean County. He was born in Allin Township, McLean County, May 10, 1870, the son of Benjamin Franklin and Martha (Johnson) Allison.

Benjamin Franklin Allison was a native of Ohio, born in 1846. He came to Illinois and settled on a farm four miles southwest of Lexington, which he farmed for 17 years. Mr. Allison died in 1897 and his widow now lives with her children at Ames, Iowa. She was a native of Twin Grove Township. Mr. and Mrs. Allison were the parents of eight children, one of whom is deceased.

Frank Allison received his education in the district schools and has always lived on a farm. In 1891 he rented land in Money Creek Township, which he farmed until 1919, when he purchased 25 acres of land in Lexington Township, just outside of the city limits of Lexington. He now lives retired.

On Dec. 17, 1890, Mr. Allison was married to Miss Minnie May Johnson, a native of Miami County, Ohio, and the daughter of George and Mary Jane (Surface) Johnson, the former a native of Ohio and the latter of Illinois. To Frank and Minnie May (Johnson) Allison four children have been born, as follows : Ruby Jane, married W. F. Beck, lives in Lexington Township; Josephine Elizabeth, married Ralph Berry, lives in Money Creek Township; Flossie A., married Lincoln West, lives in Blue Mound Township; and Eugene F., at home. Mr. and Mrs. Allison have five grandchildren.

Mr. Allison is a Republican and a member of the Christian Church. He stands high in the community and he and his wife have many friends and acquaintances.

R. T. Claggett, vice-president of The Peoples Bank of Lexington, and leading farmer of McLean County, is a native of Fairfax County, Va., where he was born May 10, 1858. He is the son of James A. and Catherine (Johnson) Claggett.

James A. Claggett was born in Virginia and came to McLean County with his family on Dec. 25, 1866, and settled on a farm in Lexington Township, where Mr. Claggett became a successful stockman. He owned 400 acres of land, which is now owned by his son, R. T. Claggett, the subject of this sketch. Mr. Claggett died in 1886 at the age of 66 years and his wife died in 1900 at the age of 86 years. They had three children, of whom R. T. is the youngest and the only one now living.

R. T. Claggett received his education in the district schools, but was not able to receive much schooling as his mother lost all the slaves on their farm during the Civil War, and he was obliged to work on the farm when he was quite young. Mr. Claggett has always been a farmer and now operates 400 acres of well-improved land in Lexington Township. He moved to Lexington in 1897 and owns a beautiful home at the corner of Cedar and Chestnut avenues.

native of Money Creek Township, born Jan. 31, 1863, and the daughter of Josiah and Lucy (Empie) Biggs, early settlers of McLean County. Mrs. Minnie (Biggs) Claggett, on her mother's side, is a direct descendant of Barbara Fritchie; on her father's of John Quincy Adams. Josiah Biggs was born in Money Creek Township, Feb. 26, 1834, the son of Lemuel and Nancy (Mullen) Biggs, natives of Ohio. One son of Lemuel Biggs is still living, Lemuel, and he lives at Seattle, Wash. Josiah Biggs was married on Aug. 30, 1860, to Lucy Empie, a native of New Albany, N. Y., born Aug. 30, 1842. Mr. Biggs died in 1900 and his wife died July 29, 1922. They were the parents of five children, of whom two are now living, Mrs. Claggett and Hattie, the widow of Frank Brown, Seattle, Wash. Mrs. Claggett's great aunt, Deliah (Mullen) Evans, was the first woman teacher to teach in the school that stood on the present site of Bloomington, 111. Mr. and Mrs. R. T. Claggett have no children of their own, but reared Elmo F. Hill and his sister, Catherine Hill was adopted.

Elmo F. Hill was born at Lexington, Feb. 3, 1899, the son of Elmer and Daisy (Mosier) Hill, both deceased. He enlisted for service during the World War from Peoria, in October, 1917, and was assigned to the 5th Balloon Corps. In January, 1918, after training at Omaha, Nebr., he sailed for France, where he died on Sept. 23, 1918, from influenza. Mr. Hill's body was returned to this country in 1920 and buried in Selma Cemetery, McLean County.

Catherine Claggett was born Oct. 5, 1900. She has attended Lexington High School, Fairy Hall at Lake Forest, 111., and in 1924 she will be graduated from the university at Normal, 111.

R. T. Claggett is a Democrat and a member of the Baptist Church, as also is his wife. They have an extensive acquaintance in McLean County and stand high in the community.

M. E. Jenny, who is successfully engaged in business at Lexington, was born at Highland, 111., Nov. 10, 1883, and is the son of S. L. and Louisa (Steiner) Jenny.

S. L. Jenny, a native of Switzerland, came to this country when he was a young man and settled a Highland, 111. He served throughout the Civil War, having enlisted from Jamestown, 111. Mr. Jenny now lives retired at Highland and is 83 years of age. His wife was born in Illinois and died in 1921 at the age of 72 years. They were members of the German Evangelical Church and the parents of five sons and five daughters, all of whom are living. M. E., the subject of this sketch, is the eighth in order of birth.

M. E. Jenny was reared on his father's farm and received his education in the public schools. He started life as a farm hand near Peoria, 111., and when he was 21 years old he started farming on rented land. In 1915 Mr. Jenny came to Lexington and engaged in the grocery business. He has built up a fine business and is among the enterprising merchants of the community. In 1917 Mr. Jenny began handling farm implements in connection with his store and he now represents the International Harvester Company. He owns two store buildings at Lexington as well as a fine home.

On Dec. 10, 1920, Mr. Jenny was united in marriage with Miss Alma Frieberg, a native of Saybrook, 111., and the daughter of Charles and M. Frieburg. Mr. Frieburg lives at Saybrook, 111., and his wife is deceased. To M. E. and Alma (Frieburg) Jenny one daughter has been born, Dorothy, born Feb. 25, 1923.

Mr. Jenny is a Republican, a member of the Christian Church, and belongs to the Knights of Pythias and the Modern Woodmen of America. In 1916 he began trap shooting and in 1922 won the state championship at a meet where 150 trap shooters engaged in. Out of 200 targets, Mr. Jenny shot 197. Mr. Jenny is an excellent business man of Lexington, where he is highly esteemed as an alert and enterprising citizen.

George W. Priest, a substantial and well known farmer and stockman of Hudson Township, is a member of one of McLean County's oldest families. He was born on the farm where he now lives, Sept. 21, 1846, the son of Elijah and Rebecca (Hinthorn) Priest.

Elijah Priest was a native of Coshocton County, Ohio, as also was his wife. They came to McLean County in 1835 and settled on the farm now owned by their son, George W. Priest, the subject of this sketch. At that time there was only one frame house standing in Bloomington and Mr. and Mrs. Priest were interesting pioneers of the county. He died in 1890 at the age of 79 years and his wife died in 1867, at the age of 54 years. They had six children, of whom only one is now living, George W., our subject. After the death of his wife, Elijah Priest was later married to Miss Minerva McCurdy, a native of Ohio, who died in 1875. No children were born to this union.

George W. Priest has always been a farmer. He received his education in the district schools of Hudson Township and then engaged in farming on the home place with his father. Mr. Priest has improved the home place considerably and he is known as a breeder of good stock.

In 1896 Mr. Priest was married to Miss Ellen Priest, a native of Iroquois County, 111., who died June 24, 1923. Mr. and Mrs. Priest had no children.

Stephen A. Finley, now living retired at Lexington, is a member of one of McLean County's oldest families. He was born at Cincinnati, Ohio, March 24, 1855, the son of James and Harriet (Owens) Finley.

The Finley family came to Illinois from Brown County, Ohio, in 1857 and settled on a farm in Blue Mound Township, where James Finley became a prosperous farmer. He later moved to Lexington Township, where he operated 100 acres of well improved land. Mr. Finley died Nov. 15, 1907, at the age of 82 years and his wife, who was born Sept. 15, 1824, died Nov. 29, 1901. They were the parents of 12 children, five of whom are now living, as follows: Mary, the widow of J. A. Roberts, lives at Varna, 111. ; Curtis, lives at Schuyler, Nebr. ; Stephen A., the subject of this sketch; Richard C, a retired farmer, lives at Bloomington; and G. L., lives at Red Lodge, Mont.

Stephen A. Finley was two years of age when his family came to Illinois and he received his education in the district schools. He began farming on rented land in 1883 and later purchased 85 acres in Lexington Township, McLean County. Mr. Finley added to his land holdings whenever possible and now owns 285 acres of well-improved land in Lexington Township, which is operated by his son. He retired in 1920 and now resides at Lexington.

On Feb. 20, 1883, Mr. Finley was united in marriage with Miss Laura Elbert, a native of New Albany, Ind., born Oct. 17, 1857, and the daughter of William and Elizabeth (Smith) Elbert. Mr. Elbert was born near

Pittsburgh, Pa., and came to McLean County in 1857, and settled on land in Blue Mound Township. He served with the 33d Illinois Volunteer Infantry throughout the Civil War and also served in the Mexican War. Mr. Elbert died Aug. 20, 1907, at the Danville Military Soldiers Home, and his wife died in 1867. They were the parents of five children, as follows: Mrs. Finley; Sarah, married F. P. Casey, lives at Peoria, 111.; N. L., lives in Blue Mound Township on the old home place ; Anna, the widow of C. K. Hutchinson, lives at Lexington; and Nettie, married Parker Hefner, lives in Blue Mound Township. To Sephen A. and Laura (Elbert) Finley five children have been born, as follows: Anna, deceased, was the wife of Harold Brown ; Elbert, lives at Hudson, 111. ; Myrtle, deceased ; Eugene, who operates the home place ; and one child died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Finley have four grandsons.

Mr. Finley is identified with the Democratic party in politics and he has served as school director for 20 years and as road commissioner. He is a member of the Methodist Church and belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Mr. Finley is a substantial citizen.

Van Armstrong is a prosperous farmer and stockman of Lexington Township and the owner of 460 acres of well improved land. He was born on a farm in Highland County, Va., Dec. 22, 1875, and is the son of William and Susan (Botkin) Armstrong.

William Armstrong and his wife were born in Highland County, Va., where he operated a large farm for his uncle, John T. Armstrong. During the Civil War he served for three years with the Confederate army and he died in 1916 at the age of 68 years. Mrs. Armstrong still lives on the farm in Virginia. They had eight children, all of whom are living, and Van, the subject of this sketch, was the fourth child in order of birth.

Van Armstrong spent his boyhood on the farm and attended the district schools of Virginia. When he was 15 years of age he left home and came to Lexington, 111., where he remained one year and then went to Iowa. Mr. Armstrong borrowed $15.00 from a schoolmate to help pay his way to Illinois from Virginia and after coming here worked on a farm for $18.00 per month for three years in the employ of William Rockel. He later farmed the Ed Kemp farm for 20 years and in 1920 purchased his present farm in Lexington Township, which was originally the Will- iam Rockel farm. Mr. Armstrong raises stock and also carries on general farming and his farm is well improved and among the valuable stock farms of the community.

On Dec. 25, 1899, Mr. Armstrong was married to Miss Alice Turnipseed, a native of Lexington, and the daughter of D. T. and Emma (Cross) Turnipseed. To Mr. and Mrs. Armstrong four children have been born, as follows: Lola, married Fred Froelich, lives at Gridley, and they have two children, Van Edwin and Fred Franklin Froelich; Florence, Willie, and Glenard, all at home.

Mr. Armstrong is identified with the Democratic party in politics and he has served as a member of the school board. He is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America and belongs to the Knights of Pythias. Mr. Armstrong is a man of integrity and ability, a good farmer and an excellent citizen.

Manfred J. Trimmer, an enterprising and well known farmer and stockman of Money Creek Township, is a native of McLean County. He was born on a farm in Money Creek Township, Aug. 3, 1856, the son of Daniel and Mary Ann (Stretch) Trimmer.

Daniel Trimmer was born in New Jersey and was one of the first settlers of McLean County, having come here in 1826. He engaged in farming and was one of the prominent stockmen of the early days. He was accidentally shot while on his way to the polls to vote for President Lincoln, when his gun accidentally exploded. Mrs. Trimmer, a native of Licking County, Ohio, died in 1892. By her first marriage she had 10 children, all of whom are now deceased except Manfred J., the subject of this sketch. She later married W. J. Fryer and to that union two children were born, one of whom is now living, Charles E. Fryer, who lives at Bloomington.

Manfred J. Trimmer was four years old when his father died. He received his education in the district schools and has always followed farming and stock raising, and he lived on the same farm in Money Creek Township for 20 years, which he rented. In 1913 Mr. Trimmer purchased his present farm of 12 acres and made extensive improvements. He has been a breeder of pure-bred hogs for 35 years and has made many exhibits of his Chester White hogs at fairs. He also is an extensive shipper of pure-bred hogs for breeding and also raises shorthorn cattle.

On Feb. 2, 1882, Mr. Trimmer was married to Miss Ella Ogden, a native of Money Creek Township, and the daughter of Albert and Sarah (Pertle) Ogden, the former a native of McLean County and the latter of Indiana. To Mr. and Mrs. Trimmer two children have been born, as follows: Earl C, married Bernadine O'Hara, lives in Los Angeles, Calif., and they have one daughter, Valeria; and Ruby L., married Hershel Kemp, lives near Burlington, Iowa, and they have four children, Ogden, Franklin, Lucille and Morine.

Mr. Trimmer is a Republican, served as county supervisor for about three and one-half years, road commissioner for four years, and as school director for 35 years. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and a substantial citizen of McLean County.

Noah Franklin, president of The State Bank of Lexington, and the owner of 1,100 acres of well improved land in Money Creek and Gridley Townships, has been prominently identified with McLean County for many years. He was born in Owen County, Indiana, June 29, 1831, the son of John and Mary (Puett) Franklin.

The Franklin family originally came from England and at an early date emigrated to North Carolina, where John Franklin was born. In 1818 he and his wife removed to Indiana where they remained until 1850, then coming to McLean County, where they settled on land in Money Creek Township. Mr. Franklin was a colonel in the state militia of Indiana and died in 1860. He and his wife had 11 children, of whom all are deceased except Noah, the subject of this sketch.

Noah Franklin was reared on a farm and received his education in the district schools near Lexington, 111. He has always followed farming and stock raising and has met with marked success. In 1853 he purchased 320 acres of land warrants from Mexican war soldiers, through the government, at $1.00 per acre, which he improved from raw prairie. Mr. Franklin has added to his land holdings until he now owns 1,100 acres in McLean County. He has been widely known as a breeder of Aberdeen Angus cattle and as a shipper of stock. In 1877 he removed to Lexington, where he now lives retired.

Noah Franklin

On June 29, 1854, Mr. Franklin was united in marriage with Miss Sarah Spawr, a native of McLean County, and the daughter of Jacob Spawr. To this union five children were born: Ida M., the widow of Charles Bush, lives with her parents; Elmo, a farmer, lives in Money Creek Township ; Minnie, deceased ; Bert A., an attorney of Bloomington, a sketch of whom appears in this volume; and Lola, deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Franklin have three grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Mr. and Mrs. Franklin will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary in June, 1924. At the time of their marriage the Chicago & Alton had just completed construction work between Bloomington and Lexington, and the superintendent of construction honored the young couple by sending a coach from Bloomington to Lexington to take them back for their wedding, which took place in Bloomington. Thus Mr. and Mrs. Franklin and their wedding party of 40 guests were the first passengers on the new railroad. An amusing incident which occurred on the return trip, made on a flat car, was when one of the young ladies, Miss Barnes, raised her umbrella while the train was in motion. A gust of wind blew it from her hands into a nearby field. The train, however, was stopped and the engineer backed the cars to recover the lost umbrella.

Mr. and Mrs. Franklin began life with a capital of but $300.00. Mr. Franklin is a Republican and served as mayor of Lexington for one term. He is a member of the Christian Church and stands high in the community and McLean County.

William E. Piatt is a prosperous farmer and stockman of Hudson Township and the owner of 328 acres of good farm land. He was born on the farm where he now lives, May 21, 1867, and is the son of Jesse and Jane (Hinthorn) Piatt.

Jesse Piatt was a native of Champaign County, 111., born Jan. 13, 1830, and his wife was born in Ohio. When he was a young man, Mr. Piatt came to McLean County and settled on the present Piatt farm in Hudson Township, where he lived until the time of his death, in 1907. His first wife died Sept. 16, 1875, at the age of 48 years and Mr. Piatt was later married to Miss Sarah Hinthorn. No children were born to this union. William E. Piatt, the subject of this sketch, is the only one of five children now living that were born to Jesse and Jane (Hinthorn) Piatt.

William E. Piatt has always lived on the same farm in Hudson Township, which he purchased in 1909. He received his education in the district schools and started life farming on the home place. Mr. Piatt has made improvements on the place and is a successful farmer.

On Nov. 16, 1916, Mr. Piatt was united in marriage with Miss Blanche Hinthorn, a native of Waldo Township, McLean County, and the daughter of Eli and Minnie (Brown) Hinthorn, natives of McLean County. Mr. and Mrs. Piatt have two children, as follows: Edward Jesse and Dorothy Fern, both at home.

Mr. Piatt is identified with the Democratic party in politics and has served as school director of District No. 202. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and is an enterprising and progressive citizen of McLean County.

Charles E. Ransom, a leading farmer and stockman of Lexington Township, and the owner of 168 acres of well improved land, was born in Cavalo, Coshocton County, Ohio, Feb. 8, 1847, the son of Thomas L. and Ann (Pierson) Ransom.

Thomas L. Ransom was a native of Ohio and a successful farmer. He served throughout the Civil War and died in 1898. Thomas L. and Ann (Pierson) Ransom had two children, as follows: Temperance, deceased, was the wife of Dr. E. L. Dooley; and Charles E., the subject of this sketch. Mrs. Ransom was married the second time to James Adams, a native of Kentucky and a pioneer settler of Illinois. No children were born to this union, and she died in February, 1884, at the age of 62 years. Thomas L. Ransom was married also a second time to Mrs. Maxfield and had three children by his second marriage, as follows: Ella M. LeBrun, Louisiana ; May, now lives in Louisiana, and Clara, deceased.

Charles E. Ransom was reared by an uncle and aunt, James S. and Mary Jane (Morrison) Pierson. He received his education in the Pleasant Hill District School and rented land until 1878, when he purchased his present farm, which is located in Lexington Township. He carries on general farming and is among the efficient farmers of the township.

and the daughter of John M. and Martha J. (Guy) Dinsmore, natives of Pennsylvania and early settlers of Ohio. At the close of the Civil War the Dinsmore family went to Iowa and two years later moved to Jasper County, Mo. In 1897, Mr. and Mrs. Dinsmore moved to Kansas City, where he died. Mrs. Dinsmore died at Carthage, Mo. In 1883 Mrs. Ransom came to McLean County to visit relatives and while here met Mr. Ransom. Before her marriage she was employed by The Carthage Press for 13 years, as she had learned the printer's trade in 1875. She also taught school before her marriage. To Charles E. and Josephine (Dinsmore) Ransom three children have been born, as follows: Guy D., married Fern Sprouse, and they have three children, Ruth Anne, Charles Robert and Louis Joseph; Truman, married May McMeekin, and they have one child, Betty Louise; and Mary Louise, lives at home.

In politics Mr. Ransom is a Republican and he has served as school director of Adams School. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church and has been a ruling elder over 40 years. He is one of the substantial and highly respected citizens of McLean County. He is a member of the Sons of the American Revolution.

Albert S. Ogden, deceased, was a prominent farmer of McLean County for many years. He was born on a farm in Money Creek Township, Mc- Lean County, Jan. 9, 1837, and died Jan. 7, 1909. Mr. Ogden was the son of Samuel and Nancy (VanDolah) Ogden.

The Ogden family are of English descent and the great-grandfather of Albert S. Ogden, the subject of this sketch, was Albert Ogden, who settled at Albany, N. Y., before the Revolutionary War. Samuel Ogden settled in McLean County, 111., many years ago and was among the earliest settlers of the county. He came from Lincoln, Ohio, where he was born. Mr. Ogden became the owner of 900 acres of land, which he entered from the government, and he was a successful stockman. He died in 1892 at the age of 83 years and his wife died July 8, 1884. Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Ogden had 10 children, one of whom is now living, Alexander.

Albert S. Ogden spent his boyhood on the home place and received his education in the district schools. He owned 260 acres of well-improved land in Money Creek Township and was a successful stock raiser. The

On March 8, 1860, Mr. Ogden was married to Miss Sarah C. Pirtle, a native of Owen County, Ind., born July 21, 1843, and the daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth (McKnott) Pirtle, early settlers of McLean County. Mrs. Ogden died Feb. 14, 1893. Mr. and Mrs. Ogden were the parents of 13 children, 10 of whom are now living, as follows: Ora, the widow of Enos Trimmer, lives at Towanda, 111. ; Ella, married M. J. Trimmer, a sketch of whom appears in this volume; Elmon 0., farms the home place; Stella, married Charles Yoder, lives east of Bloomington; Dorothy, the widow of Elsworth Van Buskirk, lives at 403 West Grove Street, Bloomington; Pearl, lives at Des Moines, Iowa; Nora, married James W. White, lives at Clear Lake, Iowa ; Coral married Hary H. Fritz, lives on the home place ; Ernest, lives in Texas ; and Theresa, the widow of Elmer Anderson, lives at Bloomington.

Mr. Ogden had been a Democrat for 29 years and served as school director for 12 years and also as highway commissioner. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge No. 482. Mr. Ogden was highly respected and was one of the substantial citizens of McLean County.

S. P. Livingston, deceased, was a native of Licking County, Ohio. He was born Dec. 29, 1842, and died July 13, 1921. Mr. Livingston was the son of Isaac and Sarah (Wise) Livingston, natives of Pennsylvania, and the parents of 11 children, of whom S. P., the subject of this sketch, was the fourth in order of birth. Isaac Livingston moved his family to Mc- Lean County in 1855, where he followed farming until the time of his death. His wife died at Pontiac, 111.

S. P. Livingston grew up on his father's farm and attended the Hudson district schools. He rented land until 1875, at which time he purchased 60 acres in Hudson and Gridley townships. Mr. Livingston became a prominent farmer and at the time of his death owned 190 acres of land. In 1911 he retired and moved to Hudson, 111., where he owned a considerable amount of town property.

On March 26, 1863, Mr. Livingston was married to Miss Arminta Moore, a native of Livingston County, 111., born Feb. 12, 1844, and the daughter of John and Margaret (Popejoy) Moore. Mrs. Livingston's parents died when she was six years old and she was reared by an uncle and aunt, Mr. and Mrs. Isam Moore. She was educated in the schools of Fairbury and taught school for several years before her marriage. At that time the school term lasted three months each year and she received $12.00 per month and board. To S. P. and Arminta (Moore) Livingston 10 children were born, only one of whom is now living, Araminta E., married Burt Stephens, lives on a farm near Normal, 111., and they have the following children : Sterling R. ; Dwight B. ; and Avery L. Stephens.

Mr. Livingston was a Democrat and served as constable of Hudson for a time. He belonged to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Mr. Livingston was a man of integrity and strong business acumen, a believer in progressive methods in his work, and always ready to support the best interests of his community.

William Thomas Carman Burtis, deceased, was a leading farmer of Hudson Township for many years, and a member of a prominent pioneer family of McLean County. He was born at Hudson, 111., Nov. 16, 1844, the son of Edwin E. and Sarah Ann (Lewis) Burtis.

Edwin E. Burtis was born in Brooklyn, N. Y., and was the son of Jacob Hicks and Eliza (Carman) Burtis. Jacob Hicks Burtis was born in Queens County, N. Y., Nov. 18, 1796, and at the age of 18 years he settled in Brooklyn, N. Y., where he learned the carving business and the cabinet making trade. In the War of 1812 he enlisted for service from New York City and was made a captain, but was never called into active service. Mr. Burtis was married on Feb. 5, 1821, to Miss Eliza Carman, who died in 1832, leaving four children. In 1835 Jacob Hicks Burtis was married the second time to Miss Mary Weeks and five children were born to this union. During the year of 1835 Mr. Burtis started west with his family, stopping at Jackson and Alton, 111., and they did not come to Hudson, 111., until Dec. 1, 1836. The Burtis family was one of the first families to settle in this community and during their first winter lived with James T. Gildersleeve and family. Mr. Burtis purchased 160 acres of land in the Hudson colony and began farming in 1837. He died June 16, 1873. Mr. Burtis was baptized in the Episcopal Church but was not a member of any church. He was, however, a Christian, and a highly respected pioneer of McLean County.

Edwin E. Burtis, father of the subject of this sketch, came to Mc- Lean County with his father when he was a boy and became a successful farmer, operating the original homestead in Hudson Township.

William Thomas Carman Burtis lived on the same farm during his entire life and was a successful and widely known stockman. He specialized in the breeding of pure-bred Poland China hogs and Shorthorn cattle and was also a shipper of stock. Mr. Burtis died Aug. 2, 1902.

On Nov. 5, 1878, Mr. Burtis was united in marriage with Miss Leah Jane Ambrose, a native of Hudson, 111., born Nov. 18, 1856, and the daughter of James and Amelia (Hedges) Ambrose, natives of England. The Ambrose family came to the United States in 1850 and settled in Brooklyn, N. Y., and two years later moved to Hudson, 111., where Mr. Ambrose was employed at the carpenter trade. He also followed general farming and owned 160 acres of land. To William Thomas Carman and Leah Jane (Ambrose) Burtis seven children were born, five of whom are now living, as follows: Altha, married Fred Musgrove, lives at Chicago; Cecel, married G. E. Myers, lives at Normal, 111. ; Ralph W., lives at Defiance, Ohio; Floss, lives in Defiance, Ohio, and is a trained nurse; and Parker lives on the home place with his mother. Mrs. Burtis has two grandchildren : Mary Ellen Myers and Joanna Lou Burtis.

Mr. Burtis was a Republican and attended the Methodist Church. He was a man of energy, strong purpose and industry. In his business affairs he was ever upright and fair, and in his work as a citizen he was the upholder of high standards.

Edward Curtis Mahan is an enterprising and successful farmer of Money Creek Township, where he operates 330 acres of good farm land. He was born at Lexington, 111., Nov. 19, 1883, the son of William Robert and Emma Jane (Strausbaugh) Mahan.

William Robert Mahan was born at Lexington, 111., and his wife is a native of Decatur, 111. They now live at Lexington, where Mr. Mahan conducts a hardware and implement business. They have three children, as follows: Clara Irene, married C. P. Scroggin, lives at Chicago; Edward Curtis, the subject of this sketch ; and Douglass S., at home.

years later he farmed his father's land in Money Creek Township and in 1917 purchased 86 acres of land in the same township. Mr. Mahan raises a good grade of stock and during the World War was an extensive feeder of cattle.

On Feb. 20, 1908, Mr. Mahan was married to Miss Bertha Douglass, a native of McLean County and the daughter of James and Mary S. (Paul) Douglass, a sketch of whom also appears in this work. Before her marriage, Mrs. Mahan taught school for five years. To Mr. and Mrs. Edward Curtis Mahan one child has been born, Oma C, at home.

Mr. Mahan has served as township assessor of Money Creek Township since 1918 and he is also a member of the Community School Board of Lexington. He is a Republican and is one of the progressive and substantial citizens of McLean County.

William Humphries is a prominent farmer and stockman of Hudson Township and the owner of 400 acres of well improved land. He was born at Hudson, 111., March 19, 1858, and is the son of Thomas and Jane (Ambrose) Humphries.

Thomas Humphries was a native of England, born March 6, 1826, and his wife was also born in England, March 3, 1826. In 1852 Mr. and Mrs. Humphries came to this country and lived in New York until 1856, when they moved to Hudson, 111., where Mr. Humphries worked at the carpenter trade. Ten years later he purchased 160 acres of land in Hudson Township, which he farmed until the time of his death, July 7, 1876. His wife died in January, 1911. Mr. and Mrs. Humphries had four children, two of whom are now living: W. J., lives at Des Moines, Iowa; and William, the subject of this sketch. Two daughters died in infancy.

William Humphries was reared on his father's farm and attended the Hudson Township district schools. He has always followed farming and has lived on his present farm in Hudson Township since 1877. The land was owned by his father, who was about to build a home on it at the time of his death. Mr. Humphries and his mother then built it. The Humphries farm has been owned by only three parties since the land was entered from the government. Mr. Humphries has good buildings and good equipment on his farm and he is known as a breeder of purebred stock.

On Oct. 25, 1882, Mr. Humphries was married to Miss Charlotte Parker, a native of Castleton, Vt., born Feb. 5, 1861, and the daughter of Jehiel and Paulina (Pond) Parker, natives of Vermont. In 1865 the Parkers came to Illinois and settled at Gardner, where Mr. Parker died. His widow now resides at Calumet, Mich. Mrs. Humphries was educated in the public and high schools at Gardner, and attended Illinois State Normal University at Normal, 111., where she met Mr. Humphries. Before her marriage she taught school for several years. To William and Charlotte (Parker) Humphries seven children have been born, as follows: Bert P., at home; John W., a farmer, lives in Hudson Township; Edward, a farmer, lives in Hudson Township; Mary, married Loren Miller, lives at Marinette, Wis.; Dr. Paul A., a physician, Towanda, 111.; Kate, deceased; and Fred, at home.

Mr. Humphries is a Republican and has always taken a keen interest in politics, although he has never aspired for any office. He is a member of the Baptist Church and belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Mr. Humphries is well and favorably known in McLean County and takes an active interest in the affairs of his community.

Joseph B. McNaught, deceased, was one of McLean County's successful farmers. He was born near Spencer, Ind., Dec. 27, 1822, and died Sept. 21, 1866.

Mr. McNaught came to McLean County when he was a young man and was among the first settlers of the county. He worked making fence rails for 25 cents per hundred. After several years Mr. McNaught returned to Indiana and was married to Miss Agnes Scott, a native of Indiana, born March 17, 1828. To this union 10 children were born, seven of whom are now living, and Mrs. Sarah E. McNemar is the only one living in McLean County. Mrs. Joseph B. McNaught died Feb. 24, 1907.

Sarah E. (McNaught) McNemar was. born in Gridley Township, Jan. 30, 1848, and she was the oldest child of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph B. McNaught. She was married in 1864 to Joseph B. Carter, a prominent farmer of McLean County. He died on June 29, 1879, at the age of 35 years. To this union four children were born as follows: Etta, married

Henry Gonder, lives at Rippey, Iowa, and they have six daughters and one son: Joseph B., lives at St. Edwards, Nebr., and he has eight children; Lennie M., married Alma Wick, lives at Lexington, and they have one daughter; Mabel, married Sherman Foster, and they have two daughters and one son. Mrs. Carter was later married to William Stewart, also deceased, and she was married the third time to C. J. W. McNemar, who died Feb. 10, 1920. Mrs. McNemar has nine grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren. She lives at Lexington and owns 200 acres of well improved land in Money Creek Township, McLean County. She is a member of the Methodist Church and belongs to the Rebecca lodge. Mrs. McNemar is one of the interesting pioneer women of McLean County and grew to womanhood among the wild game of the prairies.

Joseph B. Mc&faught was a highly respected citizen of McLean County. He was industrious, earnest and sincere, and merited the high regard in which he was held by the community.

Edward Ambrose, deceased, was a prominent citizen of McLean County for many years. He was born at Hudson, 111., March 7, 1862, and was the son of James and Amelia (Hedges) Ambrose.

Mr. and Mrs. James Ambrose were natives of Chilton, England, and came to this country in 1850. In the spring of 1873 Mr. Ambrose purchased a farm in Hudson Township, which was later owned and operated by his son, Edward, the subject of this sketch. Mr. and Mrs. James Ambrose had six children, of whom Edward was the fourth in order of birth.

Edward Ambrose was reared on the farm and received his education in the district schools. He lived in Hudson Township during his entire life and became a leading farmer and stockman. He died July 17, 1911.

On March 25, 1890, Mr. Ambrose was married to Miss Rebecca Bishop, a native of Money Creek Township, McLean County, born Jan. 20, 1865, and the daughter of Pleasant W. and Amelia (Timmons) Bishop, natives of Indiana. In 1836 the Bishop family moved to McLean County. Pleasant W. Bishop was the son of William G. and Rebecca (Briggs) Bishop, natives of South Carolina. Pleasant W. Bishop followed farming during his life and was a minister of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. He served throughout the Civil War in the 94th Illinois Volunteer Infantry and was a chaplain in the 37th Regiment. Mr. Bishop died at Gilbert, Iowa, Jan. 31, 1918, and his wife died July 19, 1886. She was a native of Ohio and the daughter of Henry B. and Celia (Briley) Timmons, the former a native of Maryland and the latter of Ohio. John Briley, greatgrandfather of Mrs. Ambrose, was a native of Ireland and after coming to the United States served throughout the Revolutionary War. Mr. and Mrs. Pleasant W. Bishop had seven children, two of whom now live in McLean County: Charles F., a policeman at Bloomington; and Mrs. Ambrose.

To Edward and Rebecca (Bishop) Ambrose six children were born, as follows: James B., a veteran of the World War, lives on part of the home place and is married to Miss Margaret Crichton, and they have one child, James; Ruth, attends Chicago University; Ellen, married Leslie A. White, lives at Miami, Fla. ; Bernard B., at home; Lois, teaches in the public schools at LeRoy, 111. ; and Stephen, at home.

Mrs. Edward Ambrose has made many improvements on the farm since the death of her husband and erected a fine modern brick residence, which is located two and one-half miles northeast of Hudson. She owns 240 acres of land.

Edward Ambrose was a Republican, a member of the Baptist Church, and belonged to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Modern Woodmen of America. In all the phases of his life, Mr. Ambrose was industrious, earnest and sincere. He merited the high regard in which he was held by the community.

James Wilson, deceased, was a successful farmer and stockman of Hudson Township and a widely known citizen of McLean County. He was born in Ireland, Feb. 16, 1846, the son of John and Mary (Greer) Wilson.

Mr. and Mrs. John Wilson were natives of Ireland, where they spent their entire lives. They were the parents of seven children, one of whom is now living, Mary, who lives on the old homestead in Ireland.

James Wilson, the subject of this sketch, came to this country in 1875 and for a short time lived in Connecticut, after which he came to McLean County. He was employed on the farm of his uncle, James Greer, in Hudson Township for eight years and later rented land from his uncle for five years. Mr. Wilson purchased the farm he had been renting, which is located three and one-half miles northeast of Hudson, and now owned by his widow. Mr. Wilson was a breeder of good stock and specialized in the breeding of Poland China hogs and Norman horses. He died May 15, 1912.

On April 2, 1874, Mr. Wilson was united in marriage with Miss Martha Workman, a native of Ireland, born Oct. 29, 1848, and the daughter of Ezekiel and Martha (Sands) Workman, the former a native of Scotland and the latter of England. To James and Martha (Workman) Wilson two children were born, as follows: Julia, married Ed Hamm, a farmer, lives in Hudson Township; and Ida, married William Humphries, a farmer, lives in Hudson Township.

Mrs. Wilson now lives at Hudson and still owns the homestead in Hudson Township, which contains 264 acres of good farm land. She is a member of the Methodist Church and has a wide circle of friends in Mc- Lean County.

In politics James Wilson was a Republican and he was a member of the Methodist Church, and held, many offices in his church. He was a stockholder of the Hudson Elevator. Mr. Wilson was a man of energy and in his business affairs was ever upright and fair.

Charles Moncelle, deceased, was a .leading farmer of Woodford County. He was born in Alsace-Lorraine, Dec. 28, 1853, the son of John and Marguerite Celestine (Verrion) Moncelle.

John Moncelle left his home in France in 1855 and came to the United States, settling near Metamora, 111., where he was employed at his trade as blacksmith. After a short time he sent for his family in France and after their arrival in Illinois they lived at Versailles where his wife died, and Mr. Moncelle died at Peoria, 111. Mr. and Mrs. John Moncelle had eight children, six of whom are now living.

Charles Moncelle was three years old when he was brought to this country and he was reared and educated at Versailles, 111. After finishing his school work, he learned the blacksmith trade with his father, which he followed until his marriage in 1882. Mr. Moncelle then engaged in general farming and stock raising in Woodford County, III, where h? rented land. Later he purchased 160 acres of land, which was part of the Henry Grove farm. Mr. Moncelle sold this farm in 1906 and the following year purchased 240 acres of well-improved land in McLean County.

in Lawndale Township. He died before moving to the new home, on Feb. 18, 1907. Mrs. Moncelle moved her family to the new location the following year, where they lived until 1913. She now resides at Lexington but still owns the home place as well as city property.

On Dec. 26, 1882, Mr. Moncelle was united in marriage with Miss Emma Grove, a native of Woodford County, 111., born Nov. 21, 1861, and the daughter of Abraham and Caroline (Niergarth) Grove. The Grove family originally came to Illinois from Virginia and the Niergarth family from Switzerland. To Charles and Emma (Grove) Moncelle four children were born, as follows: Earl, a farmer, lives in Lexington Township; Rudy, lives in Lawndale Township; Charles LeRoy, a farmer, lives in Lawndale Township; and Caroline, married Leslie Brooks, a farmer, lives in Money Creek Township.

Edgar Sager, deceased, was a prosperous farmer and stockman of Hudson Township and the owner of 250 acres of land. He was born a': Barton, Tioga County, N. Y., Feb. 15, 1846, the son of John and Phoebe (Meeker) Sager.