Piatt County, Illinois - Biographical sketches, 1903 (part 12 of 13)

In 1879 was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Peters and Miss Anna Huston, of Monticello, who was for several years a teacher in the Monticello schools and a daughter of John and Mary E. ( Prichard) Huston. They traveled life's journey happily together for about fifteen years, and then Mrs. Peters was called to her final rest in January, 1894, leaving a son and two daughters : Grant, who is a graduate of the Monticello high school of the class of 1903 ; Mary and Julia, who are attending school.

In his political affiliations Mr. Peters has always been a Republican, unfaltering in support of the principles of the party, and for several years he was connected with the Republican central committee of Piatt county as is secretary, and in other capacities. He has also been a delegate to the state conventions of his party and his efforts in behalf of the organization have been effective and beneficial. He has made a close study of the issues and questions of the day, and is thus able to support his position by intelligent ar- gument, and he has also left the impress of his opinions upon public thought and action. In local politics he has figured prominently, and he was for two years a memljer of the city council from the first ward. He has also been president of the school board, the cause of education finding in him a warm friend. In 1880 he was nominated to represent Piatt county in the state legislature, was elected "from the thirty-second district, and was an active working member of the body, serving on a number of important committees. He took an active part in the business that was transacted in the council chambers of the state, and his course was ever above suspicion. The good of the nation he places above partisanship and the welfare of his constituents before personal aggrandizement. He commands the respect of those with whom he comes in contact everywhere, but at home - in the county of his adoption - ^where he is test known, he inspires personal friendship of unusal strength, and all who know him have the highest admiration for his good qualities of heart and mind.

Samuel S. Armsworth

Samuel S. Armsworth is one of the leading young farmers of Willow Branch township, his home being on section 25, where he was born on the I3th of March, 1871, a son of James and Emma (Gulliford) Armsworth. The birth of the father occurred on the same place, it being originally the home of our subject's paternal grandparents, Samuel and Celia Armsworth, who located there when the county was in its wildest state.

man began dealing in stock and also ran a ditching machine, which he owned in partnership with his brother-in-law, Thomas Gulliford, and John Kirby, of Monticello. They ditched much of land of this county. After his marriage James Armsworth continued to reside on the old homestead, and in connection with its operation he conducted a brick and tile factory, which was located on his land, having been established there by D. O. Loy, who had leased the land from James Armsworth. About 1880 the father purchased the plant and successfully carried on the factory throughout the remainder of his life, manufacturing much of the brick and tile used in this region. In 1883 he erected one of the finest brick houses in Willow Branch township, it being of the very best workmanship throughout and built for the convenience of himself and family. The brick was manufactured in his own factory and no pains were spared in the construction of the residence.

On the gth of December, 1866, was celebrated the marriage of James Armsworth and Miss Emma Gulliford, who was born in Somersetshire, England, in 1840, and is a daughter" of William and Mary (Ashford) Gulliford. Her paternal grandfather was William Gulliford, Sr., a property owner jn England, while on the maternal side she is related to a Mr. Ashford, who has much wealth at his command in that country. In 1853 Mrs. Armsworth came with her parents to the new world and settled near Milmine. Piatt county, Illinois, when this section of the state was very wild and unimproved. Wolves and deer were then numerous and smaller game was also found in abundance. The homes of the early settlers were mostly built of logs, and were widely scattered. Mrs. Armsworth's father was a butcher by trade, but he also engaged in the bakery business to some extent, and was capable of doing almost any kind of work. . After coming to this country he turned his attention principally to farming, his home being near Milmine in this county.

Unto James and Emma (Gulliford) Armsworth were born the following children: William Edwin, now deceased; Samuel S., whose- name introduces this sketch ; Celia Lavina, Bertha Alma and Floyd Frederick, all three deceased ; Ernest Albion, who died at the age of two years, before the father's death ; and Edith May, who is at home with her mother and brother. After a useful and well-spent life the farther passed away in 1885. Most of the children were then quite small, but Mrs. Armsworth not only reared her own family, but also three children belonging to her husband's brother, these being Sadie, now the wife of Samuel D. Parr, who is engaged in farming east of Monticello; Chattie, wife of John Mitchell, who lives near Ivesdale; and Scott, who is still with Mrs. Armsworth. At different times the family have resided in Monticello and Cerro Gordo, but they prefer the quiet of farm life and now occupy their beautiful country home.

Mrs. Armsworth is an active and prominent member of the Presbyterian church, to which her husband also belongs. He never cared for political preferment, but served as school director for many years, and always took a deep interest in all enterprises calculated to promote the moral, educational or social welfare of the community in which he lived. He was a very successful farmer and stock-raiser, and derived a good income from his business as a stock-dealer, buying and selling cattle on quite an extensive scale in earlv life. The old homestead had been rented for several years prior to his marriage, and when he took charge of the same it was in rather a dilapidated condition, but he tiled, fenced and improved the land, erected good and substantial buildings and made his farm one of the best in the county.

The property is now under the control of Samuel S. Armsworth, who is successfully operating about three hundred acres, raising corn, oats and fruit of all kinds, and he usually ships a carload of hogs to market each year. He was reared on the farm, and since his father's death has remained with his mother, doing all in his power for her comfort and pleasure. He raises a good grade of stock and has some very fine colts upon his place. On the 3d of November, 1892, he married Miss. Catharine Maier, a daughter of John and Catharine Maier, of. Monticello, but she died, April 25, 1895, and their daughter, Catharine, who was born January 14, 1895, died the following July. Bessie, born September 22, 1893, is still living.

Mr. Armsworth is now serving his second term as tax collector in Willow Branch township. Politically, he is a Democrat, and socially, he is a member of Arela Lodge, No. 599, I. O. O. F., and the Royal Circle of Cisco.

Edward Allman

After years of active labor, mostly devoted to farming, Edward Allman is now living a retired life in the city of Decatur, enjoying a well earned rest and the fruits of his former toil. He is a native of County Kerry. Ireland, and a son of John Allman, who spent his entire life in that country. He still has one brother and a sister living, these being James L., a prominent citizen of Monti-

Edward Allman spent the first thirteen years of his life in his native land, and then came to the United States, landing in New York City, whence he made his way to Ohio, where he spent two years. At the end of that time he proceeded westward and settled in Monticello, Illinois. In partnership with his brothers, James L. and John Allman, he took up a tract of wild prairie land in Monticello township, Piatt county, which at that time was covered with ponds and sloughs, but by draining and cultivation they converted the place into a well improved farm. At that early day deer, wild geese and other game was plentiful and furnished the early settlers with many a meal. The farm machinery then in use was very primitive, and the first corn Mr. Allman helped to cultivate was with a single shovel plow, while he cut grain with a- cradle. Upon their place the brothers erected a small frame house, which was later replaced by a more commodious and modern residence, and all of the improved machinery and conveniences were added to their farm.

When his adopted country became involved in Civil war, Edward Allman laid aside all personal interests and was one of the first to enlist from Piatt county, becoming a private of Company E, One Hundred and Seventh Illinois Volunteer Infantry, which was at first under the command of Colonel Snell, and when he resigned under the command of Colonel Lowery, who was killed in the battle of Franklin. The captain of Company E was John W. Wood. Mr. Allman went into camp at Camp Butler, and from there was sent south with his regiment. The first engagement in which he participated was with Morgan in Kentucky, and after his capture in Ohio returned to Kentucky our subject took part in the battles of Nashville and Campbell Station, the siege of Knoxville, the battle of Peach Tree Creek, the siege of Atlanta and the battles of Jonesboro and Newbern, North Carolina, besides several other engagements of less importance. After three years of valiant and meritorious service on southern battle-fields, he was honorably discharged in 1865, and returned home to Piatt county.

After leaving the army Mr. Allman continued to engage in general farming and stock-raising with his brother, James L., for some years. He worked by the month for 'some time after coming to Piatt county, but about 1868 started out in life for himself. His first purchase consisted of a tract of virgin soil, upon which he laid about seven miles of tiling, and also erected thereon a good set of farm buildings. He is still the owner of a good farm of two hundred and forty acres in Monticello township, where he was successfully engaged in agricultural pursuits for many years, and gave considerable attention to the stock business, which he found quite profitable. In 1892, on account of ill health, he rented his farm and has since lived retired. He has twice crossed the ocean to visit his native land, and also went west in the search of health, having traveled quite extensively over this country for that purpose. Since 1892 he has made his home in Decatur. and now has a beautiful residence at No. 1006 E. Lincoln avenue, surrounded by well kept lawns. His housekeeper is his niece, Miss Maggie C. Allman, a daughter of John and Nora (Cronin) Allman, both now deceased.

By his ballot, Mr. Allman supports the men and measures of the Democratic party. He is a devout member of the Catholic church, and has helped to organize the churches at Tolono, Champaign, Ivesdale and Bement, but is now connected with St. Patrick's church of Decatur. He well remembers seeing the first Catholic missionary that ever came to Piatt county, and he has borne an active and prominent part in the moral and material development of this section of the state. He is one of the self-made men of the community, his success in life being due entirely to his own well directed efforts and good business ability, and he not only deserves the prosperity that has come to him, but he has also gained the confidence and good will of those with whom he has been brought in contact either in business or social life.

John W. Kingston

John W. Kingston is a member of one of the pioneer families of the state and has been a resident of Piatt county since 1867. He is now living a retired life on section 35, Goose Creek township. He is a native of Peoria county, Illinois, born April 5, 1827, the son of George and Susan (Miller) Kingston. George Kingston was born in County Cork, Ireland, and came to this country at the age of seventeen years. He later located in the middle west and purchased a tract of two hundred and eighty acres of government land in Woodford county, Illinois. He coninued to cultivate this farm until the death of his wife, when he went to reside with the children. He was one of the early and respected settlers in Woodford county, and lived to the advanced age of eighty-seven years. He married Susan Miller in Morgan county and became the father of twelve children, six of whom are now living : John W. ; George, who resides in Florida; Mary A., Mrs. Hollis Thompson, of Bloomington, IIlinis; Charles \Y., a Nebraska farmer; Milten, a Kansas farmer; and Julia, widow of Charles Fredericks, now residing in Washington.

John W. Kingston is a product of western institutions, having been educated in the pioneer schools of Woodford county, which he remembers as being of the old log-house, puncheon-floor variety. He, however, succeeded in absorbing enough education to carry him through life, and has made a most useful and respected citizen. As he came to an age of responsibility, he worked by the month for adjacent farmers, and later learned the carpenter's trade. This trade he followed for a period of fifteen years, when he returned to the occupation of farming. He bought a tract of eighty acres in Woodford county, paying therefor two dollars and fifty cents per acre; improving this for a period of ten years he sold at the splendid advance of forty-five dollars an acre. With the result of this sale he came to Piatt county in September of 1867, and bought the farm of two hundred and eighty acres where he now resides. He continued in active cultivation of the soil until 1893, when his success was such as to warrant his retirement and the turning of his farms over to his boys. The original two hundred and eighty-acre farm is now one of the most highly improved in the county and is worth the highest price paid for farming land, though Mr. Kingston paid but seven dollars per acre for it at the time of purchase. It is thoroughly ditched and tiled, and there is a fine modern farmhouse, together with a complete equipment of barns and outbuildings. Mr. Kingston formerly OAvned forty acres, but has since sold twenty acres to his sons. He is looked upon as one of the solid men, financially, of Piatt county.

inony in M'ay of 1851, Mrs. Kingston's name having teen Sarah M. Bunting. She was the daughter of John and Jane Bunting. Their children are as follows : Rose married Henry Purkheiser, a railroad conductor, living in Macon county, Illinois ; George W. married Mary Ann Cooper and is a farmer living on section 26, Goose Creek township; Susan married James Spurling and is now deceased; John married a Miss Reynolds, and removed to California, where he died in 1891 ; Ansel is a farmer living near Weldon, Illinois ; Ellis married Miss Cooper and is a farmer of Goose Creek township; Virginia died at the age of eleven years.

Mr. and Mrs. Kingston are prominent and leading members of the Baptist church, in \yhich they were ordained as deacons in 1888. For a period of twenty-seven years, both our subject and his wife have been earnest and enthusiastic workers in this denomination, he being at the present time superintendent of the Baptist Sunday-school of Monticello, while she is one of the efficient teachers. The consistent Christian lives of our subject and his wife have endeared them to a very large circle of friends in the county, among whom they are most highly regarded.

George W. Kingston

George W. Kingston, a son of John W. and Sarah M. ( Bunting) Kingston, was born in \Yoodford county, Illinois, in 1857, and now cultivates a farm on section 26 and 35, Goose Creek township, Piatt county. He received his education in the common schools of Piatt county, and resided on the home farm until he had attained his majority. In February. 1879, he was happily joined in marriage to Mary Ann, daughter of Joshua and Martha ( Rainwater) Cooper. Mrs. Kingston's parents were leading farmers of Gocse Creek township. Her father entered the army during the Civil war as a member of Company D, Seventy-third Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and after a period of service was stricken with disease and died. A short time later the mother also died, Mrs. Kingston being thus left an orphan at the tender age of three years. The other members of the family were: James F., a stockbuyer of Kansas, and Martha E., who is the wife of John Laka, a farmer and storekeeper residing at Breeze, Missouri.

To the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Kingston have been born five children, as follows : all of whom still reside at home : Alva E., Dora V., Bertha, Ray and Carl. After our subject's marriage, he rented a portion of his father's farm and met with such success in its cultivation that he was soon enabled to buy the quarter section adjoining, on which he now resides. On this farm he has erected a modern farm house and large "barn, has tiled the entire place thoroughly, and has it under a high state of cultivation. He is regarded as one of the best farmers in the county, being particularly careful in the use of good stock and up-to-date machinery. He carries on general farming, and demonstrates that care given to such an occupation will make it pay.

In the field of politics MT. Kingston supports the principles of Jefferson and Jackson, and has been school director of his district for the past twelve years. He and his wife are prominent members of the Methodist Episcopal church, taking an active part in all the work of that organization. They are most highly esteemed in their local community.

Oliver M. Martin

One of the younger representatives of agricultural interests in Piatt county is Oliver M. Martin, who resides on section 34, Goose Creek township. The birth of Mr. Martin occurred in Piatt county, November 29, 1868. His father was William S. Martin, his mother Jane M. Chandler. The former was born in the Hoosier state, November 9, 1835, and at eighteen years came west to De- Witt county, Illinois, where he passed three years on a rented farm. In 1856, he bought eighty acres of prairie in Piatt county, to which he later added another eighty acres, and at the end of fifteen years owned a half section. He continued to cultivate this body of land successfully until 1894, when he passed a year in Bloomington, and then settled in Monticello. Here he resided for the following four years, and after a trip to California moved to Weldon, Illinois, where he died October 25, 1901. He was a man of sturdy qualities and of patriotic mold, having served his country loyally during the Civil war as a member of Company B, One Hundred and Seventh Illinois Volunteer Infantry. His wife, whom he married February 28, 1866, was a daughter of Hiram and Rachel (Manlove) Chandler. She became the mother of six children : Ettie M., resides with her mother in Weldon ; Oliver M. is the second child ; Edgar O. is a farmer of Goose Creek township ; Luther died at two years ; Wenford B. is a practicing physician at Freeport, Illinois; Manford R. is a student of medicine in the College of Physician and Surgeons of Chicago.

Oliver M. Martin, since his father's death, has resided on the home place, which is regarded as one of the fine farms of the county. He was educated in the public schools of the county and lived dutifully at home until he was twenty years old. He then went to California with the intention of making that state his home, but after an eight months' period on his uncle, Wilbur F. Chandler's ranch, he was cured of his western fever and returned to his native state.

Here, on the 4th of June, 1891, Mr. Martin was united in marriage to Miss Sarah E. Ennis, who is also a native of Illinois, and they now have five children, namely : Erma F., Gladys E., Bernice, William Lawrence and Granville N. William H. Ennis, the father of Mrs. Martin, was born in Maryland in 1837, and in early life came west, locating in Sazewell county, Illinois. He was married at Pekin in 1866 to Sarah E. Houk, who died two or three years later, leaving one child, James E., now a minister at Catlin, Illinois. For his second wife Mr. Ennis married Martha Jane Houk, who was born in Tazewell county in 1847, ar>d they now make their home on a farm in Willow Branch township, Piatt county. The children born of this union are: William D., a farmer of Macon county; Mrs. Martin; Thomas J., a farmer near Kanawha, Iowa; Mary E., Mrs. Emery McGinnis, of Piatt county, Illinois; Louie J., wife of Carmi Parrish, of Macon county ; Ira Lee, a farmer of Sullivan, Illinois; Handy M., of Glenhaven, Illinois; Cora E., now Mrs. Clarence Pease, of Cisco. Illinois; and Lester C, who resides with his parents. The father of this family was a soldier of the Civil war, having enlisted in August, 1862, in Company B, One Hundred and Seventh Illinois Volunteer Infantry.

After the marriage of Mr. Martin, he settled on a rented farm in DeWitt county, where he passed three years, and then rented the old home place from his father, where he has since resided. Here he carries on gen- eral farming, and has made a specialty of raising blooded cattle of the polled Angus breed. Mr. Martin has also a fine reputation as a dealer in thoroughbred horses, he having but recently purchased a car load of splendid animals in the famous state of Kentucky. Upon his settlement upon the old home place, he began systematically to put it in splendid condition, remodeling the house, fencing the entire place with a good wire fence, and adding many new outbuildings. He is now the owner of the farm, together with other lands, making in all three hundred and twenty acres.

The character of his citizenship has been such as to secure to him and his family the respect and esteem of the whole country side. In politics he favors the principles of the Republican party, and he is a liberal supporter of the Presbyterian church, of which his wife is a- faithful member.

Charles F. Weilepp

Through forty-five years Charles Fleetman Weilepp has been a resident of central Illinois and is one of the venerable citizens of Piatt county, his mind bearing the impress of the early historical annals of this part of the state. He has passed the eightieth milestone on life's journey, having been born on the pth of December, 1819, in Prussia. His parents were Christopher and Hannah Weilepp, and the father was a farmer by occupation, following that pursuit throughout his entire business career. He and his wife died in the fatherland, her death occurring before the emigration of her son Charles F. to the new world.

Weilepp was reared and educated and in 1851 he crossed the Atlantic to America, believing that he might have better business opportunities in the new world than could be obtained in the older countries of Europe. He landed in New York with only fifty cents in his pocket. He had made the voyage in the sailing vessel Idelphia, which weighed anchor in the harbor of Bremen on the 6th of June and reached the harbor of New York on the 24th of August, 1851. He experienced pleasant weather and a voyage which was without danger. Mr. Weilepp did not tarry long in the east, but started at once for the interior of the country, making his way to Rush county, Ohio, where he remained for about six 6r seven years. It was necessary that he secure immediate employment for he was without funds, and he first worked at daily labor. He was afterward employed at farm work and in 1858 he came to Illinois, settling in Macon county upon a tract of rented land. Thus he began farming upon his own account, and' for ten years followed that pursuit at his first location. As the years passed Mr. Weilepp prospered in his undertaking, gaining a comfortable competence, and in agricultural circles he was well known as a leading representative of that line of business activity. In 1885 he left the home farm and came to Cisco, where he has since lived with his son.

Mr. Weilepp was married in Prussia about sixty-four years ago, the lady of his choice being Christina Hyer, who was 'born in Prussia and who was long a faithful companion and helpmate to his on life's journey. They became the parents of nine children : Minnie, who is now the widow of Samuel Smith and resides in St. John's, Kansas; Charles, deceased ; Edward, who is also living in St. John's ; David, who resides in

Maroa, Illinois; Laura, who is the widow of John McKinley and makes her home at Forsyth : William and Samuel, who have passed away; Frank S., with whom our subject makes his home; and John, who died in Ohio. The mother of these children departed this life in 1870, dying in Macon county. She had gained many friends during her residence in this part of the state, and her loss was there-fore deeply and widely mourned.

Mr. Weilqip, of this review, was one of the early settlers of Macon county, and assisted in breaking a great amount of new land there and in otherwise reclaiming the district for cultivation and improvement. He resided in that county for twenty-six years, but has spent his later years at the home of his son in Cisco, living retired. Mr. Weilepp cast his first presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln, but since that time has supported the Democracy, and is unfaltering in his allegiance to its principles, for he believes its platform contains the best elements of good government. He is a member of the German Lutheran church, to, which his wife also belonged, and has lived an earnest Christian life, doing unto others as he would have them do unto him, making the most of his opportunities, and at all times giving his influence for improvement along lines of benefit to the entire community.

Frank S. Weilepp

The broad prairies of Illinois furnished splendid opportunities to the agriculturist who annually harvests good crops of grain. Because of this there has sprung up various industries of a kindred nature and Mr. Weilepp, of this review is a representative of one of these, being to-day extensively engaged in the purchase and sale of grain, having a large elevator in Cisco. He is a native son of central Illinois, and is imbued with the spirit of enterprise and progress which has been the dominant factor in the development and permanent improvement of this section of the state. He was torn in Macon county on the ist of June, 1862, and acquired his early education in the common schools. His youth was spent in working upon his father's farm, where he early became familiar with the labors of field and meadow and continued Under the parental roof until eighteen years of age, when he went to Forsyth and embarked in the grain business. About 1882 he arrived in Cisco, where he began buying grain for the firm of Day, Sons & Company, with whom he remained for about seven years, when he purchased his employer's interests in the business in connection witlrM. Croninger. Since that time Mr. Weilepp has enjoyed a very prosperous career, meeting with gratifying success in his undertakings. The elevator has a capacity of about forty thousand bushels, the granary in connection about thirty thousand and the total capacity of elevator, granary and cribs is about one hundred thousand bushels of grain. This is a well equipped plant, of which Mr. Weilepp is sole owner. The valuation of his business property is fifteen thousand dollars, and he is to-day regarded as one of the leading representatives of the grain trade in this part of the state. His operations are quite extensive and his business furnishes an excellent market for producers so that his work is of value to the community as well as a source of good income to himself. Mr. Weilepp is also a stockholder in the bank owned by the late M. Croninger. He likewise owns about twenty-five acres of land near Cisco, and one hundred and sixty acres in Macon county. He also leases and sublets about a section of land, and has some valuable real estate holdings, besides those already mentioned. He has a good residence in Cisco which he occupies and another which he rents, and altogether his property possessions represent large investments and indicate something of the success which has come to him in reward for his life work.

On February i, 1883, Mr. Weilepp was united in marriage to Miss Ada F. Nogle, a native of Illinois, and this union has been blessed with eight children, namely : Lela N., Carl N., Edward S., Louise M., Eva F., Laura, Paul and Max. Mr. Weilepp is a Democrat in politics. He regards it the duty as well as the privilege of every American citizen to exercise his right of franchise unrestricted by a political ring, and he reserves to himself the right which he grants to others of forming an unbiased opinion. ' ' Socially, he is quite prominent. He has taken the three degrees of the blue lodge of Masonry at Weldon, also belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and Knights of Pythias fraternity, and in the last two has held office. He has served as a member of the town board of Cisco, and both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Having spent his entire life in this section of Illinois, he is well known. The qualities of an upright manhood are his, and his reliabiltiy in business and his trustworthiness in every relation of life make him respected by all with whom he is associated. In business circles he sustains an enviable reputation, and is recognized as a man of energy and enterprise. He has ever conducted his affairs along progressive lines and commands uniform confidence.

Otto Lubbers

One of the thrifty Germans of the county who has made a splendid success at farming is Otto Lubbers, residing at the present time on section 33, Goose Creek township. He was born March 9, 1846, in the fatherland. His father was Reemt Lubbers, his mother Dena Bookhoff. They came to this country in 1870 and purchased a farm near Manito, Illinois, where they lived for a period of four years, and then purchased a quarter section in Logan county. The father died on this farm in his sixty-third year, having survived his wife for a time. They were the parents of Eike. a farmer of Goose Creek township ; Fannie, wife of Chris Roos, a Logan county farmer ; Otto, the subject of this sketch ; George, a farmer near Enclen, Illinois ; Nettie, Mrs. Harm Hohlfs, residing in Logan county; and Dena, wife of John Roos, a Goose Creek township farmer.

The education of Otto Lubbers was acquired in Germany, where he continued to reside until his twenty-second year. In 1868 he came to America and settled on what was then known as the Sculley land in Logan county, Illinois, where he purchased a quarter section. After five years he sold this farm and came to Piatt county, where he purchased the farm of two hundred and eighty acres on which he now resides, paying therefor thirty dollars per acre. To the original purchase Mr. Lubbers has added two hundred acres, constituting him one of the largest farmers in the county. He has made many improvements upon his place. In 1892 he erected a handsome residence on the site of the old frame house, and the previous year built a good barn for all purposes, good sheds and granary. Near the house stands a splendid orchard planted by his hand, while wind- mills draw water from wells which have been sunk at different times. The farms are all thoroughly tiled and ditched, and in all their appointments are among the up-to-date farms of the county.

Prior to 1873 the wife of our subject was Miss Kate Remmers. She was the daughter of Jurko and Wendelke (Tenhove) Remmers, and is the mother of nine children : Dena married Lewis Meyer, and resides on section 32, Goose Creek township ; Winnie is the wife of Jurgen Weets, also residing on section 32 ; Fannie is Mrs. Christ Lubbers, who resides on section 31 ; Reemt is a young man at home; Jurko, Kate and Otto are at home.

Mr. Lubbers and his family are consistent members and supporters of the Baptist church, of which he is one of the trustees. To this church they have given many of the best years of their life, he being at the present time secretary of the church, and superintendent of the Sunday-school, in which the wife is also a teacher. In political affiliation, Mr. Lubbers votes with the Democratic party, though he does not aspire to the emoluments of office. Men, as well as trees, are judged by their fruit. The life of our subject has been singularly fruitful in good works and deeds, and the splendid Christian character which he has built up in his home community wields a powerful and beneficient influence.

Casper Wack

Casper Wack is one of the well-known stock-raisers of Piatt county, his home being in Blue Ridge township. He was born September 20, 1850, in Canton township, Fulton county, Illinois, a son of Casper and

Mary Jane (Linaberg)* Wack. The father was a farmer and carpenter by occupation, following both pursuits. The subject of this review was reared on the old family homestead in Fulton county, Illinois, and acquired his early education there, pursuing his studies in the Mound schoolhouse, which is still standing and is yet used for educational purposes. In the summer months Mr. Wack assisted in the labors of the fields, and thus early gained practical experience of farm work. When he was twenty years of age his father began paying him wages. He received twenty dollars per month in compensation for his services, and he worked in this manner for his father for one year, at the end of which time they entered into partnership relations. They raised and bought considerable stock and as the result of their stockdealing they prospered. Both were men of good business ability and marked energy, and their capable management and strong determination enabled them to progress along lines of their chosen occupation.

On the 4th of September, 1878, Mr. Wack was united in marriage to Lizzie Ashby, a daughter of Jeremiah and Ann (Mc- Kee) Ashby, of Hamilton county, Indiana, where Mrs. Wack was born September 13, 1851. Her parents died there many years ago. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Wack were born three children : Garrett J., born July 23, 1879, is now living with his father; Wallace, born February 23, 1881, married Miss Millie Baker and they have two children ; and Emery, born September 3, 1883, is yet at home. There is also an adopted child, Leo, born on the 27th of January, 1897.

Mr. Wack now devotes his attention almost exclusively to the raising of stock of various kinds. He perhaps pays more attention to Poland China hogs than any other^ but he has large numbers of cattle and horses upon his place. At the present time he has nineteen head of horses and mules, and he feeds annually about forty head of cattle, all of which he ships to the Chicago markets. He buys stock cattle in Kansas City, and being an excellent judge of farm animals he is thus enabled to invest his money so that his sales bring to him good financial returns. He feeds almost all of the grain which he raises to his stock, and yet he annually harvests good crops for his fields are rich and productive, returning to him excellent harvests. Mr. Wack lives upon a rented farm in Piatt county, but he owns a good tract of land in Hamilton county, Iowa, near Webster City. In his political views he is an earnest Democrat, and has held some minor offices, having served as school director in his township for six years, while for nine years he was a trustee. He belongs to the Masonic fraternity, holding membership in Mansfield Lodge No. 773. The beneficent spirit of the craft appeals to him, and he endorses its principles by active co-operation for its good. His business career has been .honorable and awakens the admiration of those who know his history, for all that he possesses has been attained through his own labors.

Judge M. R. Davidson

-Judge M. R. Davidson, who has gained distinction by capable service upon the bench and by marked ability in the trial of cases at the bar of Piatt county, now makes his home in Monticello, where he is enjoying a good practice. He was born in Macon county, Illinois, on the 4th of April, 1847, an^ is a son of Baxter W. and Elizabeth (Harbaugh)

Davidson. The father was a native of Illinois and the mother of Kentucky. The parental grandfather of our subject was Samuel Davidson, who removed from South Carolina to this state before the admission of Illinois into the Union. Pioneer conditions were everywhere prevalent and in many sections of the state new settlements had been made. He took up his abode in White county, where later his son Baxter W. Davidson was born, and with the early development and progress of his locality he was actively identified, taking a helpful part in many measures which pertain to the public good.

Upon the old family homestead Baxter W. Davidson was reared amid the wild scenes of frontier life and early became familiar with the arduous task of developing and cultivating a new farm. In 1830 he removed to Macon county and became one of the early settlers of that locality. It, too, was a frontier district, and he entered land from the government and began its cultivation, turning the first furrows in the fields upon what became his homestead there. For many years he carried on agricultural pursuits in Macon county and was widely known as one of the successful, progressive and enterprising farmers of this portion of the state. His business career was honorable, because in all his dealings he was straightforward, never taking advantage of the necessities of his fellow men in any trade transaction. He died at his home in the village of Mount Zion, on the 23d of January, 1899, at the advanced age of eighty-one years, one of the honored pioneers and respected citizens of the community, in which he had made his home through nearly seven decades. His wife died on the ist of March, 1867, and both lie buried in the cemeteries of Mount Zion, Illinois. This worthy couple were the parents

Judge Davidson acquired his early education in the district schools of Mount Zion township, Macon county, and when he had mastered the branches of learning therein taught, he became a student in Mount Zion Seminary, which has since become the Millikin University of Decatur. He there pursued a classical course and for several terms he engaged in teaching school in Macon and Shelby counties. In 1871 he entered the law office of the firm of Nelson & Roby, having formed the determination to make the practice of law his life work. Both of his preceptors are still living and Judge Nelson is yet in active practice. They carefully directed his reading and he applied himself assiduously to the mastery of the principles of jurisprudence. Necessity compelled him to teach again in order to replenish his depleted pocket-book, and he taught for two years, and one year engaged in farming in the meantime. After studying for two years he was admitted to the bar before the supreme court of Springfield in January, 1877, and has since been an active factor in professional circles of the state. He first practiced in Lovington. Illinois, as a colleague of Judge William G. Cochran, there remaining for almost three years, and in 1878 he came to the county seat of Piatt county, since which time he has lived in Monticello and has been recognized as one of its most prominent lawyers. He was a partner of Samuel R. Reed from 188.2 until 1885, but with that exception has been alone in the prosecution of his profession. He prepares his cases with great diligence and care, carefully weighing every point of evidence until he has ascertained with correctness the most important points, and is thus enabled to present them with clearness and force before the court and jury. His arguments are strong, his deductions logical, and he seldom fails to win the verdict desired. Many important interests have beeri intrusted to his care, and he has thus been connected with the litigation which has awakened much interest and attention in his district. In 1891 he was elected county judge and served for a term of four years. A man of unimpeachable integrity and with profound learning of the law combined with the ability to put personal prejudices and opinions aside in order to ^'ve an unbiased judgment, he took to the bench high qualifications for this responsible office and proved an able jurist.

On the 5th of March, 1874, Judge Davidson was united in marriage to Miss Emma M. Reeme, a daughter of William H. Reeme, and unto this marriage have been born four children: Myrtle F., who is a teacher in the city schools of. Chicago; Mabel R.. who is at home with her parents ; Cloyd O., who is occupying a responsible position as manager of a canning factory in Barron, Wisconsin ; and Lois A., who is still a - student in the schools of Monticello. The family is well known and prominent in social circles here. In his political views the judge is a Democrat, warmly espousing the cause of the party and rendering effective aid in its behalf. He is likewise an active member of the Presbyterian church, of which he has been an elder for a number of years. Universal progress and improvement are causes dear to his heart and he has been a co-operant factor in m"anv measures for the general good.

Andrew J. Dightox

prise, whose qualifications prepare them for the conduct of extensive and important farming interests. Of this class Andrew J. Dighton was a representative and he became one of the most successful and honored agriculturist and stock-raisers of the community. He based his business principles and actions upon strict adherence to the rules which govern industry, economy and unswerving integrity, and by constant exertion associated with good judgment, he raised himself to a position of affluence and of prominence, and his straightforward career won him the confidence and respect of the entire community in which he lived.

Mr. Dighton was born in Erie county, Pennsylvania, on the ist of May, 1822, and was of English lineage. His paternal grandfather was born in England and came to America with Burgoyne's army. He was pleased with the country to which he had been transported for military service, and instead of returning to his native land he remained in the new republic, and, finally joining the Continental army, aided in securing independence to the nation. When the Revolutionary war was over he established his home in Watertown, New York, where some of his descendants are still living. John Dighton, the father of our subject, was born and reared in Watertown and after arriving at years of maturity, wedded a lady of that place. He, too, was loyal to this land when the war cloud hovered above the horizon and he took -up arms against the British in the war of 1812.

In the state of his nativity Andrew J. Dighton spent his early boyhood days, remaining there until seventeen years of age. At that time he started out in life on his <>\vn account and whatever success he achieved afterward was the direct result of his own labor, merit and perseverance. He went first to Ohio, afterward to Kentucky and subsequently to Virginia, spending several years in the last named state. He was not only a self-made man, but also a self-educated one and by reading and study greatly broadened his knowledge, and thus became qualified for teaching, a profession which he followed for some time. He afterward completed a course of study in the Transylvania University in Virginia, where he was graduated, and also he won a diploma as a graduate of the law course. He never practiced the profession, however, although his knowledge of law proved of valuable assistance to him in his business career. His own education being completed, he engaged in teaching school in both Kentucky and Virginia, although he spent the greater part of his time as a representative of that profession in the Blue Grass state.

About 1852 Mr. Dighton arrived in Piatt county, Illinois, where he remained until the following year, when he returned to Kentucky, where he wedded Sarah C. Netherton, a most estimable lady, who was born- in Kentucky, on the 26th of August, 1834. Her parents were John and Margaret Netherton, both of whom were natives of Virginia, and the ancestor on the paternal line came from the fatherland. Mrs. Dighton was the second daughter born unto her parents and she continued to reside in her native state until her eighteenth year, when she gave her hand in marriage to Mr. Dighton, and. with him went to his new home in Piatt county, settling in Monticello township. Here she has resided almost continuously since, and by her marriage she became the mother of eight children : John N., Elvira, William and Mary, all of whom are living in Piatt county. Elviea is now the wife of F. V. Dilatush.

After his marriage Mr. Dighton brought his bride to Piatt county, and upon a farm north of Monticello, they began their domestic life. He purchased eight hundred acres of land at fifteen dollars per acre. Few improvements had been made upon it, but with characteristic energy he began its further development and cultivation, and in course of years it became a splendid estate. As his financial resources increased he made judicious investments in property until his land holdings were extensive and valuable. In all his farm methods he was progressive, was systematic in his work and was determined in carrying out his plans. His opinions were never hastily formed in regard to business matters, but when once reached he adhered to them closely. A man of resourceful business ability, he readily recognized, appreciated and utilized them for the benefit of his own business career. Moreover, in all of his transactions he was strictly fair and honorable and was never known to take advantage of his fellow men in any dealing. His. word became a synonym ofr integrity, and he enjoyed, to an unusual degree, the confidence of those with whom he was brought in contact. About the time of the organization of the Rank of Monticello, he became one of its stockholders, joining the banking firm which was known as Houston, Moore & Dighton.

In public affairs pertaining to the general welfare, Mr. Dighton was deeply and actively interested, and he served as supervisor of Monficello township in a manner which rcilected credit upon himself and was satisfactory to his constituents. His political allegiance was given to the Democracy. He passed away December 25, 1878, and for a number of years Mrs. Dighton continued to reside upon the old homestead, but in 1899 removed to the city of Monticello, where she erected a substantial frame residence, modern in all of its appointmens. There she is living with her daughter, Mary, a most estimable young lady, who was educated in Monticello Seminary in Godfrey, Illinois. The best thoughts and efforts of Mr. Dighton's life were wrought into Piatt county's prosperity. He was the friend of education, of justice and of the elements that prove of benefit to mankind. Though his early education was meager, yet he achieved for himself broad learning, and his continuous interest in every great question of the age made him a man of profound thought and scholarly attainments. The strong qualities which made him useful in one locality would have insured his eminence anywhere. Though never a seeker for political honors he exerted, through his wide acquaintance, an influence exceeding that of many whose names are familiar in public affairs. He was honored and respected throughout Piatt county, and his life record, indeed, furnishes an example worthy of careful study.

James Olson

Prominent among the agriculturists of Piatt county is James Olson, who cultivates a farm on section 25, Goose Creek township. He has resided in the county since 1884, and has by his upright life secured the esteem and respect of his home community.

Mr. Olson was born in Sweden on the I3th of August, 1842, and is the son of Ola and Annie ( Person) Jonsson, who were wellto-do farmers in the old country, and passed their entire lives there, the father dying at the advanced age of eighty-nine, April 8, 1903, the mother having passed to her rest several years previously, May 5, 1894, at the age of eighty-one. The children born to them were : James, the subject of this sketch; John, farmer of Goose Creek township, residing on section 26: Betsy, the wife of Peter Nelson, of Helsingborg, Sweden ; Kate, wife of Charles Seaburg, of Weldon, Illinois; Peter A., contractor, living in Chicago; and Hannah, who is the wife of P. Johnson, a merchant of Helsingborg, Sweden.

James Olson was carefully trained in the public schools of his native country, and at the age of twenty-nine came to America. He located first in Menard county, Illinois, where he worked on farms by the month for some two years. He. then rented a farm near Farmer City in DeWitt county, which he cultivated for one year, thence to Piatt county, where he has since resided. He rented farms for several years, but by thrift and economy was finally enabled in 1884 to purchase eighty acres of the farm which he now cultivates, and where he has continued to labor successfully. He has added to his original purchase a tract of one hundred and sixty acres, and is now in possession of one of the most productive farms in the county. At the time of its purchase, it was much run down on account of the fact that it had been rented for many years. Under the careful management of Mr. Olson and at a large expense, the farm has been put in splendid condition, he having tiled it thoroughly, and in 1896 erected a handsome modern farm residence and the following year a commodious and well-appointed barn. At various times he has set out new orchards, and has improved his fencing with the best quality of wire, fence, has sunk several deep wells, over which he has placed windmills, and in many ways

In the year 1875 he led to the altar Miss Christina Johnson, who has borne him three children : Oscar, the eldest son, is one of the progressive young farmers of Goose Creek township, cultivating a farm of his own, but still residing at home. The second son, Charles, also owns an eighty-acre farm near by, \\hile Edgar, the youngest, has marked out for himself a career as a physician in the new line of osteopathy, and is at present at the famous school of Kirksville, Missouri.

During his residence in the county Mr. Olson has evinced a good citizen's interest in public matters, having been for the past fourteen years a member of the local school board, and for the past four years has been road overseer of his community. He and his wife are consistent members o'f the Methodist Episcopal church, of which he is a trustee and steward. Both he and his wife are earnest and active members, and are always found at the head of any movement which looks to the advancement of the Master's kingdom. The political affiliation of Mr. Olson lies with the Republican party, though the casting of his vote on election day constitutes the extent of his interest in politics. Mr. Olson is in many respects a model citizen and well deserves mention in these memoirs of Piatt county's representative citizens.

David H. Prine

This prominent and representative farmer cultivates a farm of two hundred and forty acres on section 15, Goose Creek township, where he has resided for some years. He is a Buckeye by birth, born in Pickaway county, Ohio, on the 5th of April, 1856. His father, Albert Prine, was also a native of Pickaway county, and died when David was but three years of age. His mother was Xancy Robinson, who was born in Ohio in 1830, and is now an inmate of our subject's home. After the death of her first husband, she went to live with her father, David Robinson, with whom she came to Piatt county in 1 86 1. where she later married Robert Du- Vall. To the first marriage three children were bcrn, David being the only one living. To the second marriage were born : Maggie, now the wife of James Perkins, a farmer of Goose Creek township : Isabel, who resides at Monticello. the wife of John Fitzwater; and Xannie, who is the wife of Joseph Fitzwater, a farmer of Monticello township.

David H. Prine passed the early years of his life in Ohio, where he received a good common-school education. Upon his removal to Illinois, he was placed in the home of a Mr. Watson until the date of his mother's second marriage, after which he lived in her home. Upon the death of Mr. DuVall, the mother became an inmate of our subject's home, where she has since been tenderly cared for. Mr. Prine's own home life began in 1895. when he was happily joined in marriage to Annie May, daughter of William Perkins. Their children are : Edna Amy, six years old; Charles H., four years old: and Homer O., one year old.

The first purchase of land made by our subject was an eighty-acre tract adjoining his present farm, and which he now cultivates in connection with the farm which came to him through his mother. He has also purchased a farm of three hundred and eightyfour acres in Mississippi, as an investment. Mr. Prine's home farm is a model of neatness and thrift. It is thoroughly tiled, and ever\' fence and building on the place shows the master hand of one who understands agriculture in its higher lines. He has placed upon the farm several new orchards and many fine shade trees, and is engaged largely in fattening, shorthorn cattle and hogs for the general market.

Mr. Prine takes an active interest in the welfare of society about him. He is a Republican in politics and is a thorough believer in the fraternal principles, being a member of DeLancl Camp of Modern Woodmen and of the Odd Fellows. In religious belief he is a member of the Church of God, his wife holding membership with the United Presbyterians.

David H. Dawson

Not all who seek success win it. Some fail because of a lack of persistency of purpose, others because of unfitness for the work which they undertake, but the man who chooses wisely his calling and labors persistently therein may always gain the competence for which he strives. David H. Dawson is among the prosperous men of Piatt county, and after long years of active and honorable connection with agricultural interests he is now living a retired life in Bement. The story of the pioneer experiences in this section of the state is familiar to him for his residence here dates from a very early day. He is a native of Sussex county. Delaware, bcrn on the 4th of July, 1824, his parents being Zachariah and Mary ( Beacham) Dawson. The father was a native of Delaware and the mother's birth also occurred in that state. The Dawson family is of Scotch descent. The maternal grandmother of our subject was Celia Beacham, who lived to the extreme old age of one hundred and ten years, and the grandfather also lived to be about as old.

The father of our subject was a farmer by occupation, and throughout the greater part of his active business life carried on agricultural pursuits. After coming to the west he also owned and operated a flouring mill at Winchester, Illinois. He arrived in this state in 1834, locating in Scott county and there he carried on business for a number of years, but the mill was eventually destroyed by fire, and he did not rebuild it. In his life history there is also a chapter of military experience, for he was a soldier of the war of 1812, joining the army as a private in defense of American interests in our second war with Great Britain. His political support was given the Whig party until the organization of the new Republican party, when he joined its ranks and continued to follow its banner until called to his final rest. In business he was successful and honorable in citizenship, was loyal and public spirited, and to the duties of his family and friendship he was most faithful. He passed away in Winchester, Scott county, Illinois, when about eightyeight years of age and the mother of our subject survived for several years. -She was born in Delaware, living there until her removal to Illinois with her husband in 1834. Called to the home beyond, her remains were interred by his side in the Winchester cemetery. This worthy couple were the parents of eleven children, six of whom are still living, and the eldest brother of our subject is Jesse Dawson, who is now eighty-eight years of age.

David H. Dawson and his brothers early became familiar with the arduous task of developing new land, for they cleared the timber from four hundred acres in Scott county.

The}- were reared in one of the old log cabins with its primitive furnishings and pioneer surroundings, and David H. Dawson obtained his education in a log schoolhouse with greased paper windows and slab seats. The children were clothed in homespun garments, and the shoes for the family were purchased of a traveling shoemaker who visited the homes once each year, and made the shoes for the different members of the family. Tallow dips were used in lighting the house and the fires were started by striking sparks with flint. Each Sunday the family walked six or seven miles to church. The farm wagon owned by the family was but a twowheeled cart, all made of wood, having -neither tires or iron in any part of its construction. All grain was cut with the old time cradle and scythe, and farm work was carried on in a manner which seems very primitive compared with our modern progressive methods. Mr. Dawson of this review has witnessed almost the entire development and improvement of Scott and Piatt counties, and has seen the progress made in all lines of business activity. In the fall of 1854 he took up his abode in Piatt county, first settling in the edge of the timber in Willow Branch township. The prairie' land at that time was completely covered with water during the rainy season, and was considered unfit for cultivation, but draining and tiling has made the tract very rich and productive. There was good fishing in all the streams around, and deer and other wild game was to be had in abundance. There were many prairie wolves and evidences of frontier life were seen in every direction. The nearest neighbor to the Dawson family lived six miles away, but hospitality in those days reigned supreme, and the latch-string always hung- out.

tion of land in Bement township, but after a few years had passed he sold one hundred and sixty acres, retaining the other quarter section, which he still owns. The purchase price was seven and one-half dollars per acre and he paid one hundred and 'fifty dollars down, having seven years in which to pay the balance. He broke his land with five yoke of oxen, and purchased all his farming implements on credit from the agent who had sold him the land. Building a house on his land he soon afterward put up a barn and in due course of time developed an excellent home for himself and family. In 1874 he replaced his first residence by a large brick house, one of the substantial and attractive -homes of the county. He has also placed many rods of tiling upon the farm, paying out altogether fifteen hundred dollars in this way. He has erected a large barn and, in fact, his is one of the model farms of the county. He continued its active cultivation until February 1884, when he left the farm and purchased a home in the village of Bement, where he has since resided, leading a retired'life.

Mr. Dawson has been twice married. He first wedded Caroline Malissa Elliott, who is now deceased. They became the parents of eight children, of whom two died in infancy, while six are still living, namely : Belle, who married Joseph Medaris, of Bement, by whom she has three children ; George, who wedded Emma Ragland and resides in Missouri ; Clara, who is the wife of E. Deatheridge, of St. Louis; William Zeb, who is married and resides near St. Louis, where he is in the railroad service; Kate, at home ; and Frank E., who is living in Louisiana. For his second wife Mr. Dawson chose Mrs. Ella (Holderman) Madden, who, in her earlv life was a successful school-teacher.

Mr. Dawson is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and his life has ever been in harmony with his profession. He has contributed liberally to the church as he has prospered in his work. He now makes his home in Bement and owns several village lots besides his valuable farm property. During long years he has witnessed the growth and development of this section of the state, and has borne an active and helpful part in the work of improvement. He certainly deserves to be mentioned among the honored pioneers, and his life history, if written in detail, would present a faithful picture of the early conditions in this section of the state. He has now ' almost reached the eightieth milestone on life's journey and because of his fidelity to principle, his honor and integrity in all life's relations, he can look back over the past without regret. He now receives the veneration and respect which should have ever been accorded to one who has lived uprightly and has reached an advanced age.

John Olson

John Olson is another member of the family elsewhere spoken of under the sketch of his brother James. He is one of the stirring citizens of Goose Creek township, cultivating a large farm on section 26. He was born in Sweden, June 3, 1845. His education was such as could be secured in the local schools of his home community, after which he dutifully helped his parents on the home farm until he was twTenty-five years of age. He preceded the coming of James to Menard county, Illinois, by a year, and as in his case, worked as a farm hand for the first few years. He finally rented a farm of two hun- dred and eighty acres on the line between Piatt and DeWitt counties, but after producing one crop came over into Piatt county, where he rented a farm of one hundred and sixty acres near Mansfield, and where he continued to reside for four years. By close economy he had by this time saved enough to purchase the first forty acres of the farm on which he now resides, and for which he paid thirty dollars per acre. He later at different times added an eighty and a forty to the original purchase. He is also the owner of a quarter section in Greene county, Iowa, which he purchased in 1901. .The original purchase of his home farm was largely of wild land, and Mr. Olson has gone through the usual trials of the pioneer farmer in bringing order out of chaos. The farm has at present over two thousand rods of tile and is well ditched, making it one of the good farms of the county. In 1892 he erected a handsome new residence and later added a large barn. The farm is equipped with several good wells _ with the usual windmill pump, several fine orchards and many handsome shade trees, and the entire place is under good wire fence. Mr. Olson gives special attention to the breeding of cattle for the market and is also specially engaged in the raising of thoroughbred horses.

The married life of Mr. Olson was initiated in 1873, when on the 25th of September he led to the altar Miss Nellie Poulson. To them have been born children as follows : Philip, the eldest son, married Bessie Weddle, and is a farmer living near Paton, Iowa ; Alma became the wife of Herman Melvin, a school-teacher residing near Weldon, Illinois; Annie was educated at Normal, Illinois, and is now one of the successful schoolteachers of the county, her last school having been taught at Stringtown; Florence was also educated at Normal and is a successful teacher in the county schools; Clark, the youngest child, is a sturdy farm lad aiding his father at home.

Mr. Olson and his family are highly regarded in the social circles of Piatt county. In political belief he ascribes to the tenets laid down in the Republican platform and has served his community in several of the unpaid local offices, having been on the township board for the past two years, school director of his district, and for seven years has been drainage commissioner of district L, Goose Creek township. His religious affiliations lie with the Methodist Episcopal church, of which he and his family are active members and in which he is a trustee.

The hope of the Republic is in its wellordered homes. The early inculcation of a love for home intensifies the spirit of patriotism in later life and cements the bond which exists between people and country. This principle is exemplified in the homes of M. James and John Olson, whose citizenship has always been of the highest character and received the deserved enconiums of a large circle of friends and neighbors.

Dr. Fred W. Keel, who for the past five years has successfully engaged in the practice of dentistry at Monticello, is a native of Illinois, born in Marion county, September 9, 1874, and is a son of Ambrose and Mary Jane (Connaway) Keel, who are natives of Illinois and Indiana, respectively. For some time the father was engaged in farming in Marion county, this state, but when our sub- ject was seven years of age he removed to DeWitt county, locating near Weldon, where the family spent one year. At the end of that time they came to Piatt county and Mr. Keel is now residing in Cerro Gordo township. He had eight children, of whom six are still living.

During his boyhood Dr. Keel received a good common-school education, and later entered the Western Dental College, at Kansas City, where he was a student in 1896, 1897 and 1898, graduating in the latter year with the degree of D. D. S. Soon after his graduation he opened an office in Monticello, where he has since engaged in practice with good success, having already secured a good patronage.

On the 22d of February, 1899, Dr. Keel was united in marriage to Miss Delta M. Parsons, of DeLand, Illinois, a daughter of Clay Parsons, now a resident of Missouri. Having lost her mother when quite small, she went to live with Mr. and Mrs. Seymour Marquiss, of DeLand, and made her home with them from the age of seven years until her marriage. The Doctor and his wife have a little son, Harold Marquiss, born August 26. 1901. They are members of the Presbyterian church, and, fraternally, the Doctor is also a member of the Illinois State Dental Society. In his political views he is a Republican. To some extent he has become interested in the real estate business, dealing in northwestern lands mostly, but given his attention principally to his professional duties.

but investigate the cause of success and failure it will be found that the former is largely due to the improvement of opportunity, the latter to the neglect of it. Fortunate environments encompass nearly every man at seme stage of his career, but the strong man and the successful man is he who realizes that the proper moment has come, that the present and not the future holds his opportunity. The man who makes use of the Xow and not the To Be is the one who passes on the highway of life others who, perhaps, started out ahead of him. It is this quality in Mr. Kizer that has gained him an enviable position in the business world and made him widely known as a grain dealer of Hammond, Illinois, and also as the president of the State Bank here. He is honored and respected by all who know him in both financial and commercial circles, and he is justly accounted the leading citizen of the village where he has made his home for over thirty years.

Mr. Kizer is a native §f Macon county, Illinois, his birth having occurred near Decatur on the iith of June. 1847, h's parents being John S. and Lydia (Davis) Kizer, the former a native of Ohio and -the latter of Kentucky. The father resided in Ohio until 1835, when he came to the west, settling in Sangamon county, Illinois. There he engaged in carpentering until 1846, at which time he removed to Macon county, where he purchased a tract of land and again carried on general agricultural pursuits. He made farming and carpentering his life work, but in 1888 retired from business and lived in Decatur until his death, enjoying a well-merited rest. His life was ever honorable and upright, busy and useful, and the sterling traits of his character won fer him the unqualified regard and confidence of those with whom he associated. He passed away on the loth of April, 1903, at the very advanced age of eighty-seven years, and his widow now resides in Decatur, making her home with her children. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Kizer were born nine children, eight of whom are yet living, five being residents of Macon county, two of Hammond, and one of Rockford, Illinois.

.Mr. Kizer received only a commonschool education, attending in Macon county. In his youth he remained at home, and through the months of summer he assisted his father in the operation of a farm, early becoming familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. In December, 1873, he was united in marriage to Miss Eliza Adams, a sister of Dr. Adams, of the Wesleyan University, and a daughter of Christopher B. Adams, who was a farmer, spending the greater part of "his life in Macon county, where his death eventually occurred. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Kizer were born two children : Ethel, who was born on the i6th of March, 1878, is now the wife of F. E. Benard, who is engaged in general merchandising in Hammond, and they have one child, Glenn P. Loren P., born June 2, 1880, resides in Decatur, where he is connected with the Weare Grain Company.

Mr. Kizer came to Hammond in June, 1873, and embarked in the lumber trade. Four years later he also entered the grain trade, conducting both enterprises with good success until 1885. In that year he sold out the lumber business, but continued operations in the grain trade, which has since claimed considerable of his time and attention. He now owns two large grain elevators in Hammond, with a capacity of forty thousand bushels, and is carrying on the grain business on a more extensive scale than any other man in the southern part of Piat.t county. He ships largely to Cincinnati, Indianapolis and St. Louis, makes judicious purchases and profitable sales, and in the control of his business has met with creditable and gratifying success. When the State Bank of Hammond was organized John Dighton was made its first president, but in January, 1902, Mr. Kizer succeeded him, and has since acted in that capacity. The bank is capitalized for twenty-five thousand dollars, and a general banking business is carried on along lines which have won for the institution a most enviable reputation for reliability.

In matters of citizenshp Mr. Kizer is also progressive, and for twenty years he served as school treasurer. He gives his political support to the Democratic party, and never fails to cast his ballot for its men and measures. Both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church of Hammond, of which he is now serving as trustee, steward, treasurer and recording secretary. He takes much interest in church work, putting forth e\;ery effort in his power to extend the influence of the church and promote its permanent growth. He thoroughly enjoys home life and takes great pleasure in the society of his family and friends. He is always courteous, kindly and affable, and those who know him personally have for him warm regard. A man of great natural ability, his success in business, from the beginning of his residence in Piatt county, was uniform and rapid. As has been truly remarked, after all that may be done for a man in the way of giving him early opportunities for obtaining the requirements which are sought in the schools and in books, he must essentially formulate, determine and give shape to his own character; and this is what Mr. Kizer has done. He has persevered in the pursuit of a persistent purpose and gained the most satisfactory reward. His life is exemplary in all respects, and he has ever supported those interests which are calculated to uplift and benefit humanity, while his own high moral worth is deserving of the highest commendation.

Mrs. Permelia E. Staats

Mrs. Permelia E. Staats, widow of John P. Staats, makes her home on. section 3, Willow Branch township, where she owns a fine, well-improved farm. She is a native of Illinois, having been born two miles and a half from Lincoln in Logan county, this state, and is a daughter of John and Mary Musick, who were old settlers of that locality and were of German descent. Her father was engaged in farming in Logan county for many years, and there Mrs. Staats was reared and educated, remaining under the parental roof until her marriage, which was celebrated on the 2d of March, 1871.

Her husband, John P. Staats, was born May 23, 1841, in Clifton, West Virginia, near the Ohio line, and was also of German lineage. His parents, Isaac and Elizabeth Staats, were lifelong resident of West Virginia. He was only three years old when his. mother died, and his father passed away five years later. Thus he was left an orphan at the early age of eight years, and his educational advantages were consequently limited. For some time he made his home with a family by the name of Coleman, in West Virginia, and was forced to work when only a small boy. His sympathies being with the south he served for three years as a soldier in the Confederate army during the

Civil war, and when hostilities ceased in 1865, he came to Illinois and settled in Logan county, where he had sisters living at that time. For one year he rented the farm of Levi Musick - his brother-in-law - and at the end of that time bought a tract of land near what is now the home place in Piatt county. It was not long, however, before he sold that and bought a portion of the present farm, to which he added from time to time as his financial resources increased, until at the time of his death his landed estate consisted of three hundred and twenty acres of rich and arable land. Mr. Staats began life in this state with no capital, and when he made his first purchase he had but one hundred dollars. He was, however, a very energetic enterprising and industrious man, who made the most of his advantages, and through his own unaided efforts was able to leave his family in comfortable circumstances. He converted the wild .prairie and swamp land into well-tilled fields, tiling, fencing and breaking the land, and making many substantial improvements thereon.

On the 1 5th of October, 1896, Mrs. Staats was called upon to mourn the loss of her husband. For many years he was a faithful and consistent member of the Cumberland Presbyterian church, of which he was an elder, and he was a man highly respected and esteemed by all who knew him. Three of his sisters are still living, namely : Cynthia, wife of A. Blake, a resident of Fisher, Illinois; Mrs. Elizabeth Musick. who makes her home near Lincoln, Illinois; and Rebecca, wife of David Atwell, of Monmouth, Illinois.

The children bom to Mr. and Mrs. Staats are as follows : Alma, wife of Joseph Rainey, of Willow Branch township; Mary F., wife of Hiram Starkey, who lives near the home place; John R., a resident of Norcross, Minnesota ; Cynthia I., wife of Louis Kreker, of Willow Branch township; Edith E., John D. and Raymond, all three at home with their mother. Mrs. Staats operates the farm with the assistance of her sons, and in the management of her business affairs has met with good success. Two years ago, however, she had the misfortune to lose her house by fire, but promptly rebuilt, erecting a more modern and attractive residence, which is now the home of the family. They are active members of the Cumberland Presbyterian church and are people of prominence in the community where they reside, their circle of friends and acquaintances being extensive.

John Blacker

John Blacker is a retired farmer, now living at DeLand. He was born in Pickaway county, Ohio, November 20, 1834. He can trace his ancestry back through several generations to his great-grandfather, Lucas Blacker, wTho was born in Germany and became the founder of the family in America. It is believed that he was married in this country and that his wife was a native of Ireland. The grandfather of our subject emigrated to Virginia in his early days, and later took up his abode in Pickaway county, Ohio. He married Clarissa Payne, who was of Scotch descent.

Our subject's father, Augustus Blacker, was a native of West Virginia, born August 28. 1810, and in that state he resided until he was about eighteen years of age, when he removed to Pickaway county, Ohio, and secured work as a farm hand. He was employed in that way until 1839, when he rented a tract of land and began farming on his own account. In the meantime he had married, having wedded Miss Aner Madden, a daughter of Major and Elizabeth (Miller) Madden, the latter of German descent. The Major was a native of Ohio, while his wife went from Delaware to the Buckeye state. For many years Augustus Blacker continued to engage in farming in Pickaway county, Ohio, following that pursuit there until his life's labors were ended in death in August, 1855. His widow still survives him and now makes her home with her eldest daughter, Mrs. Frank Hott, in Monticello. She was born in Belmont county, Ohio, and is now in her ninety-first year.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Blacker were born eleven children, of whom John is the eldest. The others are Elizabeth, who was born April 7, 1836, in Pickaway county, Ohio, and is the wife of F. M. Hott, of Monticello; James Madison, who was born in Ross county, January 15, 1838, and is now living retired upon his farm near White Heath ; Joseph, who was born in Ross county, April 10, 1839, and is a retired farmer of Monticello; William, who was born in Pickaway county, Ohio, December 13, 1840, and is living retired in Monticello; Mary Jane, who was born in Kosciusko county, Indiana, in 1842, and died in early childhood; Rebecca, who was born in Kosciusko county in 1844, and died in infancy; Francis Marion, who was born in Kosciusko county, March 13, 1845. and is now following the carpenter's trade near White Heath; Helen V., who was torn October 19, 1847, and is the wife of Harvey Camp, a resident of Lincoln, Logan county, Illinois ; Levi, who was born April 5, 1851, in Pickaway county, Ohio, and is a retired farmer living in Shelby county, Illi- nois; and Cynthia Jane, \vho was born in Pickaway county, March 27, 1854, and is the \vife of John Firnish, a farmer of White Heath, Piatt county. Of this family James, Joseph and Wrilliam were all soldiers of the Civil war, who valiantly fought for the defense of the Union.

John Blacker, whose name introduces this record, was educated in Kosciusko county, Indiana, pursuing his studies in a log schoolhouse, in which was a puncheon floor. The seats were made of slabs and there was an immense fireplace in one end of the room capable of accommodating a very large back log. He afterward continued his studies in Pickaway county, Ohio, but all the schools were conducted on the subscription plan and he had little opportunity to attend, because his parents were in limited financial circumstances and his labors were needed to assist in support of the family. He had the privilege of pursuing his studies, however, to some extent in the winter months, while during the summer he worked as a farm hand until about 1857. He then worked with his father on the home place for two years, after which he was married and made preparations for having a home of his own.

It was in September, 1859, that Mr. Blacker was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Orrison, of Circleville, Ohio, at which time he rented a tract of land in Pickaway county, where he carried on agricultural pursuits for two seasons. He then came to Piatt county, where he has since lived. Unto him and his wife were born the following children : Frank Douglass, who is a farmer of Sangamon township, Piatt county ; Matilda, the wife of Lewis Robinson, a farmer near DeLand in Goose Creek, township ; Mary, who died on a farm in Monticello township in her twentieth year ; Cynthia, who died in infancy; Henry C, a resident farmer of Bement township; John, who died at the age of a year and a half ; Marcus, who died when but two years of age; Arthur, who is now carrying on agricultural pursuits in Monticello township ; Jasper Augustus, who is also a farmer of Monticello township ; Charles Clarence, who is engaged in the tilling of the soil in Goose Creek township; and Lena Myrtle, the wife of Ora Stiverson, who is living in Goose Creek township.

The mother of these children has been called to her final rest, and Mr. Blacker is now living with his daughter, Mrs. Ora Stiverson. He has put aside business cares and is now enjoying a well-merited rest. For many years he was a well-known and active agriculturist of Piatt county. He came here at an early day and undertook the task of developing a farm. He is a man who carries forward to successful completion whatever he undertakes, and in the control of his business affairs he won a comfortable competence. In all his dealings he was strictly honorable and straightforward, and those with whom he was associated respect him for his genuine worth and unfaltering integrity. His life has been in constant harmony with manly principles and wherever he has lived he has won the good will and confidence of those whom he has met. His political support is given to the Democratic party.

Mrs. Jacob E. Andrews

In a pleasant home in the village of Cisco live Mrs. Jacob E. Andrews and her two sons, Hanson and Harmon. The young men are proprietors of the Cisco Press, a weekly newspaper which they purchased in

The salient points in the history of the Andrews family are as follows : Airs. Andrews was born in Pickaway county, Ohio. March 25, 1844, the daughter of H. S. and Charlotte (Martin) Coonrod. The Coonrods were of German descent, the Martins being traced to New Jersey. The father, H. S., was brought from Virginia to Ohio in his mother's arms on horseback long before the days of wagon roads, this occurring about the year 1815. The father of the family died shortly after removing to Ohio, and H. S. was reared by the widowed mother. He was given a fair education and remained at home until his majority. He had previously purchased a farm near the old homestead and there in 1842 began his married life. The family remained in Ohio until 1856, thence removing to Piatt county, Illinois, where they located on what is now known as the Allerton farm. Six years later purchase was made of a farm three miles northeast of Cisco, where the family resided until 1882. Mr. Coonrod was a stock-buyer and, circumstances making it desirable to locate in Missouri, a farm was purchased in that state near Nevada. Later the family removed to Iowa and were residents of Gushing at the time of the father's death, December 6, 1899, the mother having died in Piatt county, Illinois, in 1875. Five children constituted the family - J. H., now a resident of Flandreau, South Dakota;- J. B., of Rock Rapids, Iowa ; Lavinia, wife of Jasper Chandler, Gushing, Iowa; Frances, now Airs. George Dawson, of Monticello, Illinois ; and Sophronia. now Mrs. Andrews.

period of five years in the schools of Piatt county. Jacob E. Andrews, of Kendallville, Indiana, had come west from the Hoosier state and soon found an attraction of irresistible quality in the fair Piatt county schoolma'am. Their marriage was celebrated on the 2gth of December, 1870. Mr. Andrews was a son of J. E. and Elizabeth (Coonrod) Andrews, and was a gentleman of many noble traits of character. He took his bride to a farm of eighty acres, two and one-half miles northeast of Cisco, where the first six years of their married life were spent. Prior to the purchase of the present home the family passed three years in the cultivation of a Champaign county farm, The years passed happily away until the 3d of September, 1894, when the husband and father was taken away, leaving the wife and three sons to mourn his death. The children living are Hanson, Harmon and Chester. The last named is now engaged in the sheep business in North Dakota. Three others are deceased - Grace M., Claud Abbie, and Lester. The father of these children was one of the gallant defenders of the Union in the dark days of the Civil war, having enlisted first in the hundred-day service and later in Company B, Twenty-second Indiana Volunteer Infantry. He served faithfully in the ranks, his honorable discharge dating July 24, 1865, at Louisville, Kentucky.

The two boys, Hanson W., aged twentyseven, and Harmon R., seven years his brother's junior, are still inmates of their mother's home, to whom they yield a loving fidelity. Their present business enterprise is the result of their own efforts. The paper had not been a paying venture under its former owner, and it has tested the metal of the boys to place it on its present prosperous basis. But the powers that be always help those that help themselves, and with a continuance of past energetic effort and good judgment in business management the future of the Press is assured. Both they and their gentle mother have a warm place in the hearts of all to whom they are known.

Major Lawson S. Kilborn

No history of Piatt county would be complete without mention of Major Lawson S. Kilborn, for he is a self-made man, an honored veteran of the Civil war and, moreover, was formerly connected in a prominent manner for many years with the educational interests of this section of the state, and is at present a representative of its journalistic interests. His labors have in many ways touched the activities of the world, bearing upon advancement and improvement, and today he is regarded as one of the representative men of his adopted county.

The Major is a native of Kingston, Canada West, his birth having there occurred on the 28th of December, 1835. When but an infant, however, his parents removed to the Empire state, crossing Lake Ontario to Monroe county, New York, when the Major was but six weeks old. At the age of eleven the father died. The eldest daughter of the household married, and three of the older brothers had gone to Indiana to seek their fortunes, the family at home then consisting of the mother, two sisters, an elder brother named Hiram, and Lawson. It was arranged that the Major was to care for the home, and throughout all his spare time was to work through the day and thus supply the table of the family while Hiram, who could command high wages as a farm hand, was to spend his time in that way and apply his earnings to paying for a home on which he had traded the family horse as a first payment. Major Kilborn's first act as he started upon this independent career was to go in debt for a sack of flour, but the strength of character of the boy was shown by the promptness with which he. discharged this obligation, and it also foreshadowed the correct business methods which he has ever followed. He has never allowed himself to become burdened by debt and has ever met every trust reposed in him. Through the summer months Major Kilborn continued to work, and in the winter months attended school, his time being thus passed until his seventeenth year, when it was decided to sell the home, the members of the household being disposed of in the following manner. The two youngest children were to spend a year in a near-by academy, and the mother was to visit through the winter with a married daughter, while Hiram was to go to Indiana, there to be joined by the others of the family in the following spring. Thus it was that Major Kilborn and his sister Emma became students in Riga Academy in the town of Riga, New York, through the winter of 1852-3. In the spring of 1853 he came to the west in company with his mother and his eldest sister and her family, her husband having gone to Indiana the previous year with his brother-in-law, Hiram Kilborn.

On reaching Lafayette, Indiana, Lawson Kilborn began working for his brothers, who- \\ere engaged in carpentering in that city, but soon he became connected with the educational interests of the west. In the winter following his arrival he was employed to teach in an old log schoolhouse about seven miles from Lafayette. The school was conducted on the subscription plan, and he realized about ten dollars per month from his labors. For some time thereafter he continued his work as an educator, his third term of school-teaching being spent at Linden, Montgomery county, Indiana. It was during that time that the Major was married, the lady of his choice being Miss Samantha Aydelott, a daughter of a fanner living near Linden. In the spring of 1860 Major Kilborn secured the position of principal of the Central school of Lafayette, and proved there a most capable and successful educator, winning popular favor and acceptably serving until the spring of 1862. The country, however, was then engaged in civil war, and he felt a strong desire to join the army. When at length he left for the field there devolved upon his wife the care of their little children, the youngest of whom was only a month old. It was with regret that he left his family, although he so much wanted to serve his country, but when speaking on the subject to his wife, she replied : "I know how you feel, and if I were a man I should go. I and the little ones will be taken care of, never fear." This response decided him at once, and he set about recruiting a company in connection with his brother-in-law, Dr. J. B. Johnson. In about a month's time the company was raised and mustered in with the Seventy-second Indiana Regiment, with Dr. Johnson as captain, H. B. Wilson, first lieutenant, and L. S. Kilborn, second lieutenant. He took a very active part in Indianapolis the Doctor was promoted to the medical deparment, Mr. Wilson became captain, and Mr. Kilborn was then made first lieutenant. He took a very active part in many important military movements with his regiment. When his captain's health failed and he resigned his command at Murfreesboro, .Mr. Kilborn was given the vacant position as commander of the company, and just before the army moved he was detailed to command the pioneers of the brigade. This cut him off from active participation in the movements on the battlefield and therefore was not pleasing to him, but as Colonel Wilder said that he had only one other man in the brigade who could get as much work out of men as Captain Kilborn, and as that man could not be spared for the position Captain Kilborn was compelled to remain in that service for a time.