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

However, after the capture of Gurley, he was relieved of the command of pioneers by General Crook and was detailed to command scouts to be attached to the general headquarters. In that position Major Kilborn accompanied General William S. Smith on his raid along the Mobile and Ohio Railroad to West Point and Columbus, Mississippi, and was thus often engaged in severe and perilous service.- A part of the Seventy-second Regiment together with Major Kilborn's scouts were all of the Wilder Brigade that went on this expedition. Captain Kilborn was promoted to the majority of his regiment November 9, 1864, and served with credit until the close of the war. He went with General Wilson on his famous raid through Alabama and Georgia, resulting in the capture of Selma and Montgomery in Alabama, of Columbus and Macon in Georgia. From the latter place the command was ordered home and the Seventysecond was mustered out in June, 1865.

While Major Kilborn was in the field faithfully performing his duty to his country, and doing everything possible for the preservation of the Union, his wife was caring for their little family at home, and by her economy and industry she had bought a house and lot in the village of Ladoga, In- cliana, and had almost completed the payments thereon. After the Major's return they traded this property for a quarter section of land in Shelby county, Illinois, and removed there in the fall of 1895. The following year they went to Marion county, Illinois, and as Major Kilborn had not prospered in his agricultural pursuits he again became connected with educational work as principal of a graded school. Through many years he continued to follow the profession and won high standing among its representatives in this section of Illinois. He was principal of the schools of Marshall. Illinois, for seven years, and his name was prominently mentioned as a candidate for superintendent of public instruction at the Prohibition convention at Bloomington, in 1882. In the schoolroom he closely studied the needs and requirement of the situations and planned for the furtherance of the schools and the permanent improvement of the educational systems of the various localities in which he was located. His own zeal in the work inspired the teachers who came under his guidance and he won for himself a prominent position in educational circles.

In 1900 Major Kilborn became a resident of Monticello, and here he is now well known as a representative of journalistic interests, being the senior member of the firm of L. S. Kilborn & Son, editors and proprietors of the Monticello Pilot, which he publishes in the interests of the Republican party. It is a bright entertaining journal and its editorials from the pen of Major Kilborn show comprehensive understanding of the questions which affect the state and national welfare. He has always been a fluent and ready writer, a master of the art of rhetoric, and yet one whose language is but the adornment for keen thought and decisive logic. His life has been all that is exemplary of the unright and therefore truly great citizen. He has favored progress, reform and improvement, and has labored as earnestly for the welfare of his country in times of peace as when he followed the starry banner of the nation upon the battlefields of the south.

Charles Edward England

Charles E. England, one of the most progressive and successful agriculturists of Piatt county, is the owner of a valuable farm of several hundred acres in Goose Creek township, and his management of the estate is marked by the scientific knowledge and skill which characterize the modern farmer. A native of this county, he was born on section 4, Goose Creek township, on the 9th of April, 1866, and is a son of A. T. and Harriet (Plunk) England. His paternal grandfather was Rev. John England, a minister of the Christian church, who was engaged in preaching the gospel through this section of the state for many years, his home being in Sangamon and Logan counties most of the time. He was also a mechanic and followed farming to some extent.

A. T. England, the father of our subject, was born in Sangamon county, 'but was principally reared in Logan county, whither his parents removed when he was quite young. He received a good commonschool education and throughout his active business life successfully engaged in farming, but is now living a retired life in Monticello, Piatt county. He was married in 1865.

sity at Champaign, where he remained for two years. His school life being ended in 1884, he returned home and on attaining his majority, began life for himself by operating a farm which was formerly owned by his father. He has since devoted his time and energies almost exclusively to agricultural pursuits, and has made his home in the neighborhood where he now resides. In his undertakings he has met with remarkable success and his landed estate now amounts to eleven hundred and twenty-six acres, all in Goose Creek township. His crops consist principally of corn, oats and hay, and he is also engaged in the feeding of stock for market, shipping from three to four carloads of hogs each year. He also raises some very nice colts for the market. Mr. England's home is a beautiful place, his splendid residence being well and tastefully furnished. The farm buildings are neat and substantial and a beautiful grove near the house adds to its attractive appearance. There are also fine orchards and many kinds of small fruit on the place, the land is under a high state of cultivation, and in fact it is one of the model farms of the locality. Mr. England is a stockholder and vice president of the First National Bank of DeLand, and is a man of marked business and executive ability.

In 1893 ne was united in marriage to Miss Esta M. Fitzwater, and to them have been born four children, namely : Leland, now eight years of age; Helen, five; Dorothy, three; and Herbert, a year and a half. Both Mr. and Mrs. England are members of the Christian church, and he is also identified with the Blue lodge of the Masonic fraternity at DeLand, and the Twentieth Century Lodge, Knights of Pythias, of the same place. By his ballot he supports the men and measures of the Republican party, and takes an active interest in public affairs, giving his support to every enterprise for the public good, and materially aiding in the advancement of all social, educational and moral interests.

John F. McGinnis, who is successfully engaged in the operation of a nice farm on section 10, Willow Branch township, Piatt county, was torn on the 5th of March, 1857, in Owen county, Indiana, and is a son of John H. and Marinda (Hinkle) McGinnis. The father was also a native of that state, where he was reared and educated in much the usual manner of farmer boys of his time, and he made his home with his parents, Elisha and Amelia Abigail McGinnis, until grown. They were originally from Kentucky and of Scotch-Irish descent, our subject's great-grandparents having come to this country from the north of Ireland.

On the 2d of January, 1851, was celebrated the marriage of John H. McGinnis and Miss Marinda Hinkle and to them were born ten children, as follows: Amelia A., now the wife of C. C. Bales, a farmer of De- Witt county, Illinois ; Emily Jane, who died at the age of two years ; Elisha, who died in 1896; John F., of this review; James H., who died August n, 1888; Jesse B., who died May 23, 1893, leaving a wife and three children; George R., who died March 5. 1901, leaving a wife and five children; Thomas Lee, who is married and is engaged in the draying business in Cisco; Emory S., a farmer of Cisco; Charles P.. who died January 21, 1891.

After his marriage the father of our subject continued to reside in Indiana until 1868, when he came to Illinois and located two miles west of Weldon in DeWitt county, where he rented land and engaged in farming quite successfully for some time. Later he removed to the farm on which his son now resides, and in 1881 purchased the place which was then known as the William Coleman farm and consisted of seventyeight acres. He erected thereon new buildings, fenced and tiled the land, and made many other substantial improvements. At an early day he raised considerable wheat, but for the past twenty years there has been very little of that grain produced in Piatt county, corn and oats being the principal crops at the present time. Mr. McGinnis died on the 7th of January, 1895, and his wife passed away July 19, 1898, honored and respected by all who knew them. They left many friends, as well as their immediate family, to mourn their loss, for they were widely and favorably known.

John F. McGinnis began his education in the public schools of Indiana, and after coming to Illinois at the age of eleven years he continued to attend school here during the winter season until he attained his majority. In the meantime he also gained an excellent knowledge of all kinds of farm work, and to-day successfully operates the old home farm. He gives considerable attention to stock-raising and usually raises about a carload of hogs each year. He never left the parental roof, and after the death of his father he took entire charge of the farm, and since his mother passed away he has also managed the household affairs. He has made many improvements on the place, and to-day has a fine bearing orchard of one hundred trees and all kinds of small fruits. Politically, Mr. McGinnis is a stanch Democrat, and for fifteen years has most efficiently filled the office of school director, being clerk of the board at the present time. He takes a deep interest in educational affairs and gives his support to all measure which he believes will prove of public benefit.

Elijah Campbell

Elijah Campbell, who resides on section 33, Goose Creek township, owns and operates a fine farm of one hundred and sixty acres pleasantly located two miles north of De- Land, its neat and thrifty appearance plainly indicating his careful supervision. Substantial improvements are surrounded by well tilled fields, and all the accessories and conveniences of a model farm are there found.

A native of the neighboring state of Indiana, Mr. Campbell was born in Clark county, July 7, 1840, and is a son of Turner and Isabel (Hinthorn) Campbell. The father was born in Ireland, of Scotch ancestry, and trie mother was of Irish descent. Throughout life Turner Campbell followed farming and died in Indiana in 1844. Four years later his widow became the wife of John Loudenback, of Kentucky, and after residing in Indiana for a few years, they removed to Fulton county, Illinois, making their home there until 1888, when they went to Howard county, Missouri, settling near Moberly, where Mrs. Loudenback died about 1892.

Mr. Campbell is one of a family of nine children, who in order of birth were as follows: Isaiah died in Indiana; William died in Missouri in 1899; John died in Indiana, leaving a wife and three children, Francis

Marion, Elizabeth and John Floyd; Oliver died when alxnit twenty-two years of age; Isaac married Jane Ailman, a daughter of John Ailman, of Canton, Illinois, and with his wife and children is now living on a farm near Wyoming, Illinois. Alexander, who was single, disappeared from a farm near Canton, Illinois, about fifteen years ago, when forty-five years of age, and has never been heard from since ; Turner died of typhoid fever at the age of fourteen years ; Elijah is the next of the family; and Sarah married Michael Phalen and died in Missouri about 1863, leaving three children. Her husband has since married again.

Elijah Campbell obtained his early education in an old-fashioned log schoolhouse in Indiana, with its puncheon floor, hewed seats and a fireplace large enough to hold a six-foot log. He attended school only through the winter season, while through the summer months he worked on the home farm from sunrise until sundown. The school also lasted all day and through the noon hours the boys cut wood, meeting on Saturdays to haul it to the building with ox teams.

In 1863 was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Campbell and Miss Sarah Elizabeth Carter, of Lewiston, Fulton county, Illinois, where her parents, Jackson and Harriet Jane ( Riley) Carter, made -their home. She is the oldest in their family of seven children, the others being Atha, wife of James O'Brien, a farmer of Fulton county; Eldora, wife of H. D. Porter, a grain-dealer of DeLand; Everett, also a farmer of Fulton county; Almecla, deceased wife of Jacob Miller, a farmer ; Ouincy, who is engaged in the lumber business at Sidell. Illinois, and Jessie wife of John Wertman. a farmer of Fulton county.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Campbell have been born twelve children : Hattie Belle, the oldest, was married in 1886 to Thomas Wisegarver, and they have one daughter, Aubra. Cora is the wife of Frank Huddleston, of Webster City, Iowa. Atha is the wife of Luther Cox, a member of the mercantile firm of Gantz'& Cox, of DeLand. Lillian is the wife of George Galliver, of Bagdad, Santa Rosa county, Florida. Both are physicians and are graduates of the Harvey Medical College of Chicago. Wynona is the wife of Smith Wisegarver, a farmer of. Piatt county. Pearl is the wife of Edward Haggard, also a farmer of this county. Raymond R. was recently graduated at Lorn-' bard College, Galesburg, Illinois, with the highest honors, being three points higher than any other graduate there during the forty-eight years of the existence of the college. He has taught in a training school in Chicago, and by teaching earned the money with which to pay his way through college and meet all his expenses while there. He is a young man of marked ability and deserves great credit for what he has accomplished. At present he is in Chicago, undecided as to what he will devote his time in the future. Turner Jackson, the next of the family, maried Jennie Armstrong, a daughter of Leonard Armstrong, and at present is engaged in draying in DeLand, though he previously followed farming in this county. Canova died in infancy. Caddie is the wife of Oscar Moody, who follows farming near DeLand ; Wave and De Forest are both at home with their parents.

After his marriage Mr. Campbell rented a farm in Fulton county for two years, and in its cultivation was fairly successful. He then came to Piatt county and purchased eighty acres of land, which he operated for two years, and on disposing of that he purchased another tract here. Since then he has bought and sold a number of places, usually making money on the transaction, and finally purchased his present farm of one hundred and sixty acres on section 33, Goose Creek township. His crops are principally corn and oats, and he gives considerable attention to the breeding of pure blooded Ohio Improved Chester hogs, which are considered a superior breed, and in the raising of which he has met with remarkable success for several years. He usually ships from eighty to one hundred hogs each year, and as those he raises are among the best to be found on the market, they command the highest prices. He may well take a just pride in his success in this enterprise. He also feeds some cattle for market. His farm is under a high state of cultivation, and there is a good orchard and many varieties of small fruit upon it. He has erected a new house, barn and other buildings, and everything is in firstclass condition.

Mr. Campbell, his wife and all his children are members of the Christian church of DeLand, and for thirty-two years he has also been connected with the Masonic order, now holding membership in DeLand Lodge, No. 812, F. & A. M. The Democratic party has always found in him a stanch supporter of its principles, and his fellow citizens recognizing his worth and ability have called upon him to fill several local offices, the duties of which he has most capably and satisfactorily discharged. He was road commissioner one term, road overseer seven years and township treasurer twenty-two years. He is still filling the last named office, and is also school treasurer of his township. Upright and honorable in all the relations of life, he well merits the confidence and trust reposed in him.

Maldex O. Curry

To succeed where others have failed, to advance where others have retrograded indicates certainly thorough understanding of the business in which one is engaged together with marked capability, close application and keen sagacity. Maiden O. Curry in 1890 became proprietor of a paper in Bement, which, previous to this time, had had various proprietors and editors, none of whom had made the journal a paying enterprise. He brought to the work strong determination, resolving that he would brook no obstacles that could be overcome by honorable and determined effort. He is now editor and proprietor of the Bement Register, which is a weekly newspaper, and the only one published in the village.

Mr. Curry was born in Moultrie county, Illinois, March 16, 1866, a son of Thomas A. and Martha A. (Davis) Curry. The father was born in Kentucky on the 22d of December, 1827, and in an early day came to Illinois, locating in Moultrie county, where he engaged in farming. During his residence in Moultrie county he drove cattle through Piatt county, taking them to market across the prairies. There were then no railreads through this part of 'the coihitry, and but a few settlers, so that one could journey for miles without coming to a fence or other evidence of settlement to impede progress. By trade he was a cabinetmaker, learning the business at Sullivan, Illinois. He followed the pursuit for some years before going to Missouri, in which state he resided for some time. Upon his return to Illinois he located in Shelby county, where he is yet living. His 'political support is given to the Democracy, and his religious faith is that of the Christian church, with which he has long held membership. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Martha A. Davis, was born in Moultrie county, Illinois, April 8, 1837, and died on the 26th of August, 1900, in Shelby county, Illinois. She, too, was a member of the Christian church, and was a most estimable lady. By their marriage September 4, 1855, eight children were born, live of whom are now living, but Maiden O. Curry is the only one residing in Piatt county.

Maiden O. Curry spent the first six years of his life in Moultrie county, Illinois, and then accompanied his parents to Missouri, where they resided for six years, returning then to this state. He has since been a resident of Illinois, and in the public schools of Shelby county he acquired his early education, pursuing his studies there until fourteen years of age. He began learning his trade in 1880 in a newspaper office in the village of Stewardson, Shelby county, Illinois, where he continued for several years. He was afterward employed at his trarle in Effingham, Altamont, Kinmundy, Chicago, Brazil, Indiana, Bloomington, Monticello, Assumption and Bement. All these places are in Illinois, with the exception of Brazil. On the loth of January, 1890, he became editor and proprietor of the Bement Register, entering into partnership at this time with G. A. Burgess, of Monticello, under the firm style of M. O. Curry & Company. Later our subject formed a partnership with C. A. Burks, which continued for three years, and he was afterward with F. E. Unholz until 1895, when he sold his interest to Mr. Unholz. He then purchased the Assumption News in Christian county, Illinois, and remained there until October, 1897, when he returned to Bement and again became owner and editor of the Bement Register, which he is still publishing. The office is well equipped with the latest

On the igth o'f November, 1886, Mr. Curry was united in marriage to Miss S. Olive Patton, who was born in Shelby county, Illinois, near Shelbyville, was educated in that county and taught school there for several terms. Both Mr. and Mrs. Curry are devoted and active members of the Christian church and are greatly interested in temperance work, doing all in their power to suppress the evil of intoxication. Mr. Curry votes with the Prohibition party, and his wife is a member of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union. Unto them have been born four children, of whom two are living : Marvella O., who was born in Chicago and educated in Bement; and Lois O., who was born in Assumption, Illinois, and is now seven years of age. The other two children died in infancy. Mr. Curry holds membership in Bement Lodge, No. 199, Knights of Pythias. Through the columns of his paper he advocates every measure which he believes will prove of permanent benefit to the community.

Evan Stevenson

Evan Stevenson is numbered among Piatt county's native sons for his birth occurred on the old home farm in Willow Branch township, September 3, 1872. He is the only son of Wilbur F. and Alice (Tallman) Stevenson, who are mentioned on another page of this work. Back to a pioneer epoch in the history of Kentucky can the ancestry be traced, and his pafernal greatgrandfather. Job Stevenson, was not only a leading business man of that state, but was also a member of the legislature and aided in framing the early policy of the commonwealth. His son, Evan Stevenson, for whom the subject of this review was named, became well known in political circles and was equally prominent as a minister of the Methodist Episcopal church. While on the maternal side Mr. Stevenson of this reviewis descended from John Boggs, his grandfather, who served as major in the War of 1812, and aided in laying broad and deep the foundation for the present development of Pickaway county, Ohio' being one of its pioneer settlers.

Upon the home farm Evan Stevenson was reared and in his early youth he attended the district school of the neighborhood. Later he continued his studies in the Monticello schools and subsequently he pursued a collegiate course as a student in the Michigan State University at Ann Arbor, Michigan, where he remained for two or three years. On account of ill health he was obliged to leave school, and returning home he became owner of the Monticello Bulletin, but when a year had passed he severed his connection with that paper and in 1898 went to Texas with the hope of benefiting his health. At that time the Spanish-American war was in progress and he joined a volunteer cavalry company which was used in patroling border, remaining in the service four months. The state militia had gone to Cuba and it was rumored that an attempt might be made by Mexican adventurers to invade Texas.

Since his return to Piatt county Mr. Stevenson has taken an active part in politics. In 1900 he was nominated by the Democracy as a candidate for state senator, but was defeated after a vigorous campaign. In 1902, however, he was elected to the lower house of the general assembly of Illinois, where he served on a number of important committees. Each question which came up for settlement received his close consideration and he labored in behalf of many improvements which he believed would contribute to the general good. Particularly he worked for liberal appropriations for the University of Illinois, which is located in his district. -His influence and efforts have extended beyond the confines of Illinois. In 1901 he went to New York city and took an active part in the campaign there in support of Edward M. Shepherd, the Tammany nominee for mayor of New York. He is a fluent and forceful speaker, logical in his argument and bases his statements upon fact as shown by history and statistics. He never fails to entertain an audience and to leave an impression upon the thinking mind. Mr. Stevenson is a typical American citizen, alive to the interests and questions of the day, and to the welfare of his county, state and nation. Although yet a young man, his work has been felt in political circles and should he continue to give his attention to political work he can undoubtedly win success and distinction in that line. His fellow townsmen respect and admire him for what he has acomplished, and he well deserves mention in the history of Piatt county.

August Ohler

August Ohler, who is now so efficiently serving as supervisor of Unity towship, was born on the 28th of August, 1858, in Frederick county, Maryland, his parents being Jacob and Emeline (Forney) Ohler. both now deceased. In the countv of his nativity he grew to manhood, and is indebted to its common schools for the educational privileges he enjoyed during his boyhood and youth. He remained on the home farm, assisting in its operation until the spring of 1880, when he went to Decatur, Illinois, and was there engaged in the manufacture of tile for four years. At the end of that time he came to Piatt county and rented a farm of one hundred and sixty acres on section 23, Unity township, belonging to Charles S. Traver, of Decatur. This place he has since successfully operated, being engaged in general farming. He is a very industrious and energetic man, and is highly respected and esteemed by all who know him.

On the 7th of December, 1882, Mr. Ohler was united in marriage to Miss Christina VVinn, of Decatur, who was born in Arkansas, and they have become the parents of five children, two of whom died when about seven years of age. Those living are Florence, now the wife of Morris Broyles, of Hammond ; and Clarence and Roy, both at home. The family is one of prominence in the community where they reside. Mr. Ohler is one of the leading Republicans of Unity township, and on his party ticket was elected supervisor, which office he is now so acceptably filling.

Ernest L. Croninger

The gentleman whose name is here presented belongs to one of the oldest families of the county, Mr. Croninger's grandfather. Peter Croninger, having settled on the farm upon which the grandson now resides in about 1840. With his wife, Cynthia, he had come from the Buckeye .state, and they were of German descent. They built the usual log cabin and started in to subdue nature's wilds. With the patience characteristic of the pioneer, they cleared their land, and year by year saw the result of their efforts in the attempt at home building most splendidly realized. In 1868 they had so prospered as to erect one of the best homes in the county, which still stands a monument to their energy. It is of brick, burned on the farm by the aid of neighbors, and stands in a noble grove of shade trees well back from the road. Grandfather Croninger was a man of remarkable mold, and was instrumental in settling the high standard of morals which early characterized the citizens of Piatt county. He died at the age of seventyseven years. He reared but one son, Mahlon Croninger, who was born in this cdunty. In 1868 he married a daughter of James Rhinehart and to them four children were born, as follows: Ernest L., who constitutes the subject of this review; Charles L., of Decatur; Nellie G., wife of Dr. M. Pategale, of Cisco, Illinois; Braley F., still residing on the old homestead, which he helps to cultivate.

Ernest L. Croninger, eldest son of the family, was born on the old homestead, March 8, 1870. He received a good commonschool education in Langley school, and later attended Brown's Business College. He aided his father in his large farming interests until 1897, when he became interested with his father and others in a banking business at Cisco, he acting as cashier of the institution. The confinement attendant on such employment, however, threatened to undermine his health, and while he is yet cashier of the bank and assistant attends to the more arduous duties. At his father's death our subject succeeded to his interest in the bank. In addition to his banking interests

Mr. Croninger, together with other members of the family, is interested in a large grain elevator, and the business attendant to it, under the firm name of Croninger & Weilepp. This firm carries on an extensive business, handling nearly all the grain raised in Piatt county. After the original purchase of land by the grandfather, different members of the family have at various times added to the domain, until at the present time the farm, consists of two thousand two hundred and twenty-five acres, all of which save two hundred acres of wood land, is under cultivation.

Mr. Croninger' is a gentleman of genial temperament and fine social qualities, and it is not strange that the fraternal idea appeals to him with such force. He has taken the third degree in the noble lodge of Masons, is a Knight of Pythias, an Odd Fellow, and a member of the Order of the Eastern Star. Politically, Mr. Croninger supports the principles of the great Jefferson, and is now serving his second term as supervisor of Willow Branch township, to which he was elected on the Democratic ticket. Though still in the hey-day of youth, our subject has fully demonstated his fitness to handle any trust imposed on him by society, and may look forward with confidence to a career of great usefulness.

John Gardiner

John Gardiner, living on section 20, Blue Ridge township, was born in Ireland in 1844, the place of his birth being County Antrim. His parents, John and Mary Ann (McKnight) Gardiner, were also natives of County Antrim, where the mother died.

Crossing the Atlantic to the new world, the father spent his last years in America. He died at the age of eighty-five years and the mother reached the very advanced age of ninety-two years. In their family were seven children, who attained adult age, but the sub ject of this review is the only one now residing in Piatt county. It was in 1867 that the father came to America with Andrew and John, and located in Piatt county, where he remained until called to the home beyond. John Gardiner spent the first twentythree years of his life on the Emerald Isle, no event of special importance occuring to vary the routine of life for him in his youth. Work and play fell to his lot, and it also became his duty to master the branches of learning taught in the common schools. After reaching years of maturity, however, he sailed for the new world, taking passage at Londonderry, Ireland, upon an old-time steamer, which was upon the water for some days. At length, however, he landed at Portland, Maine, and by way of the Grand Trunk Railroad went to Chicago, and afterward proceeded to Pittsfield, Pike county, Illinois, where he spent a few months. He then removed to Logan county, this state, where he remained for two years, during which time he was employed by the month as a farm hand. In 1869 he arrived in Piatt county where he worked for William Johnson, whose daughter he afterward married. Later he rented a farm and for three years he was in the employ of A. J. Langley. Subsequently he purchased a tract of land of eighty acres and locating thereon, at once began its improvement. He broke the prairie and after turning the sod planted crops which in due course of time yielded good harvests. He also built a house and improved that property in many ways. After a time lie sold it and purchased another tract of eighty acres, which he later disposed of. He then bought the one-hundred-and sixty-acre farm upon which he now resides, paying for this thirty-seven and a half dollars per acre. He has since added to its boundaries to the amount of two hundred and forty acres, so that he now has in one farm a valuable tract of four hundred acres. His attention has been more largely given to the raising of grain and in his work he has met with very creditable and gratifying success.

In 1874 Mr. Gardiner was united in marriage to Miss Teresa Emily Johnson, a daughter of William and Julia Ann Johnson. Her father passed away many years ago, but was survived for some time by his wife. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner have been born eight children : William E. ; Andrew ; Mary Ann; one who died in infancy; Walter ; Addie : Ida and John.

Both Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner hold membership in the Presbyterian church of Mansfield, of which he formerly served as a trustee, and at the present time he is an elder. He takes a ^ep interest in church work, doing all in hu power to promote the growth of the church :md extend its influence. His first presidential ballot was cast for General Grant, and he has since voted with the Republican party, having firm faith in its principles. He has also served as school director for five years and the cause of education finds in him a stalwart friend. Landing in this country without capital, he has, through his persistency of purpose and untiring efforts, steadily worked his way upward until he is now one of the prosperous agriculturists of Piatt county. His manner is genial and entirely free from ostentation. Without pretense or display he commands the respect

Timothy F. Deveny

Among those who valiantly fought for the Union when the South endeavored to secede was Timothy F. Deveny, who to-day is one of the leading citizens of Goose Creek township. He is engaged in farming and the dairy business, supplying the people of De- Land with milk of the finest quality. He was born in Richland county, Ohio, August 8, 1841, and is a son of John and Elizabeth (Dewitt) Deveny. The father was a native of the town of Little York, York county, Pennsylvania, and of German descent, while the mother was born in Ulster county, New York, and belonged to an old Holland family. In early life John Deveny learned the tailor's trade, and for over thirty years conducted a shop in Plymouth, Ohio, where he was making his home at the time of his death in 1855. His wife died at the same place in 1890. This worthy couple were married in Plymouth and became the parents of seven children, namely: Benjamin F., a resident farmer of Plymouth; Timothy F., of this review; Jennie, wife of John Wilson, a molder of Plymouth; Elizabeth, deceased wife of James Moore; Henry, who. died when quite young; Henrietta, wife of Frank Sable, a plasterer and mason of Plymouth, Ohio; and Martha, who died at that place in 1892.

The boyhood and youth of our subject were passed in Plymouth, Ohio, and he is indebted to its common schools for his early educational advantages. He learned the trade of a stationary engineer at that place, and later was employed as a locomotive engineer on the Baltimore & Ohio railroad for about ten years. At the end of that time he removed to Columbus, Ohio, where he ran a stationary engine for five years, and then, in 1884, went to Le Roy, Illinois, where he ran the engine in the flouring mill of Barnum & Kenun for the same length of time. On the expiration of that period he came to DeLand and rented a farm of eighty acres near the village, which he has since operated. There is a fine orchard upon the place, the fields are well, tilled and everything is in firstclass condition. The home is a pleasant residence of nine rooms, surrounded by beautiful shade trees, and is known as the old Marquiss homestead. Mr. Deveny raises the cereals best adapted to the soil and climate, and keeps a number of milch cows for dairy purposes, having a good milk route in DeLand.

Soon after passing his twentieth birthday, Mr. Deveny entered the army, enlisting on the I5th of August, 1861, in an Ohio regiment of volunteer infantry, which was assigned to the Seventeenth Army Corps. On the expiration of his term of enlistment he was discharged at Chattanooga, Tennessee, September i, 1864, but afterward reenlisted, this time becoming a member of Company G, One Hundred and Ninety-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry. When hostilities ceased he was again discharged on the 27th of August, 1865, by order of the government, as his services were no longer needed. He was in the siege of Vicksburg and in the battles of Greenbrier, Crosskeys, Winchester, Kenesaw Mountain and Peach Tree Creek, and finally returned to his home with a war record of which he may be justly proud.

Deveny was united in marriage to Miss Hattie Smith, a daughter of Wesley and Mary Ann Smith, of that place, and to them has been born one son, Justus Neal, who is at home with his parents. All three are members of the Christian church, and Mr. Deveny is also connected with the Masonic Lodge, No. 812, of DeLand, in which he is now serving as senior warden. By his ballot he supports the men and measures of the Republican party and is as true to his duties of citizenship in days of peace as he was when following the old flag to victory on southern battlefields.

The life history of Dr. Oscar D. Noe touthes upon many fields of activity. His efforts have covered a wide range and have been of practical benefit to his fellow citizens as well as to himself. He is now successfully engaged in the practice of his profession at Hammond, where he also conducts a drug stored He is the vice president of the State Bank of Hammond. A typical American citizen realizing the force of industry, perseverance and integrity in the affairs of life he has so directed his efforts that he seems to have realized at any one point of progress his possibilities for accomplishment at that point. At the same time he has been a cooperant factor in many measures for the general good, and we express the public sentiment when we speak of him as one of the representative, valued and honored residents of Piatt county.

He was born in Columbia, Boone county, Missouri, on the i6th of October, 1849, ar)d is a son of Joseph and Matilda Noe, both of whom were natives of Kentucky, and were there reared and married. They afterward removed to Boone county, Missouri, where the father engaged in merchandising until the last five years of his life. During that period his attention was devoted to agricultural pursuits, which he carried on successfully until his death in 1879. The mother of our subject died when the Doctor was but six years of age, and the father afterward married Miss Elizabeth Angel, who now resides in Columbia, Missouri. There were five children of the first union : James, a resident of California; Amon, who is living in the same state; George, who makes his home in Woodland, California; Oscar D., and Newton, who became a physician, having graduated from the Missouri Homeopathic Medical College, of St. Louis, and who died at the age of thirty-five years. The three children born of the father's second marriage are R. B., who is a practicing physician at Thorntowri, Indiana; Issathar, who makes his home in Columbia, Missouri ; and Amanda, the wife of W. B. Holmes, of Kansas City, Missouri.

Dr. Noe, whose name introduces tliis record, acquired his early education in the public schools of his native city, and afterward attended Columbia college, of Columbia, Missouri. With broad general learning to serve as an excellent basis for professional knowledge, he began preparation for the practice of medicine as a student in the St. Louis Allopathic Medical College, in which he was graduated in the class of 1872. He then received his certificate for practice and came direct to Hammond, where he opened an office and entered upon his professional work. Soon afterward, however, he returned to St. Louis, where he pursued a course in the Homeopathic Medical College, being graduated therein with the class of 1877. Again coming to Hammond he once more resumed practice here and also established his drug store, which he has since conducted in connection with the prosecution of his chosen calling. Dr. Noe continued in active practice here until 1898, when he was elected professor of senior obstetrics in the National Medical College and Hospital of Chicago. He occupied that chair until the ist of March, 1899, when he returned to Hammond and again took up the practice of 'medicine, giving especial attention to the diseases of women and children, and to surgical practice. He has, moreover, a large general practice as well as an extensive patronage along the line of his specialties, his business making constant demands upon his time and energies. In his store he keeps a general line of drugs, stationery and wall paper, and has a liberal patronage there.

Dr. Noe, unlike many professional men, possesses marked business ability and executive force as well as broad scientific learning, and his counsel and aid have therefore been important factors in the successful control many interests. He is the vice president of the State Bank of Hammond, and is the president of the Hammond Telephone Company - both enterprises of importance in the town. He is also the owner of over five hundred and twenty acres of valuable farming land, two hundred acres of which lie in Moultrie county, while the remainder is situated in Cerro Gordo township. The Doctor is thoroughly progressive along all lines, and is the owner of- the only automobile in Hammond, finding his machine of value to him in his profession as it enables him to reach his patrons with very little loss of time.

Hammond to Miss Clara Van Hook, a native of Kentucky, as was her father, Lawrence Van Hook, who at an early day brought his family to Piatt county, Illinois. He engaged in farming in Unity township and afterward removed to the village of Hammond, where he engaged in the drug business until his death, which occurred in 1890. His wife also died here. Unto the Doctor and his wife has been born a daughter, Dr. Estella V. Noe, whose birth occurred September 19, 1 88 1. After acquiring her preliminary education in the public schools she attended the Bloomington University at Bloomington, Illinois, and subsequently the Hahnemann Medical College of Chicago, in which she was graduated with the class of 1901. She then returned to Hammond where she began practice with her father, and now she has a large patronage, having demonstrated her skill by the successful handling of a number of important cases. The family occupy one of the finest residences in this part of the county, and in social circles are prominent while the hospitality of their own beautiful and attractive home is greatly enjoyed by their many friends.

Both the Doctor and his wife hold membership in the Christian church of Hammond, and he belongs to the Knights of Pythias lodge here, and also to the Odd Fellows lodge. In politics he usually gives his support to the Democracy, but at local elections frequently casts his ballot for the men whom he thinks best qualified for office, regardless of party affiliations. The Doctor is a man of scholarly attainments and of broad general learning, as well as comprehensive scientific knowledge. He is a man of keen forsight and marked executive ability in business affairs, and at all times and in all relations of life he is found reliable, his life being in conformity to the strictest professional, commercial and social ethics. He came to Hammond a young man with little capital, but his personal worth and professional ability proved the foundation upon which he has builded creditable and gratifying success, and to-day he is one of the most prosperous and respected residents of this portion of the state.

Nels Larson

It is astonishing to witness the success of young men who have emigrated to America without capital and from a humble position have worked their way upward to one of affluence. The readiness with which they adapt themselves to circumstances and take advantage of opportunities offered brings to them success and wins them a place among the leading men of the community in which they reside. To this class belongs Mr. Larson, who now makes his home in Voorhies, where he has a most beautiful residence.

A native of Sweden, he was born January 29, 1841, and is a son of Lars and Elma ( Wrensen) Johnson, both of whom are now deceased. In their family were four children, two of whom, a son and daughter, still reside in Sweden, while our subject and his sister, Mrs. Johnson, are now living in Piatt county, Illinois.

Mr. Larson was reared to manhood upon a farm in his native land, and was twentysix years of age when he crossed the Atlantic to America, landing in New York city, whence he made his way at once to Galesburg, Illinois. For one year he worked on a farm in Knox county, and then came to Piatt county, where during the ensuing eighteen months he was employed on the farm of William Burgess in Bement township. On his arrival in this country he was entirely unfamiliar with the English language, and had that difficulty to encounter as well as many others, but he soon overcame these and is to-day a well-informed man keeping abreast with the times in all particulars. In 1870 he entered the employ of William Voorhies, for whom he worked a year and a half and afterward operated rented land in Unity and Cerro Gordo townships. Subsequently he purchased an eighty-acre tract in the former township and began life in earnest as a general farmer. He has since added to his property from time to time until he now owns four hundred and eighty acres of as well improved and valuable land as is to be found in that part of the county. With the assistance of hired help he operates two hundred and forty acres of this, raising principally corn, which yields on an average of from fifty to sixty bushels per acre. Mr. Larson is also interested in the grain trade, having erected an elevator at Voorhies, where he is engaged in buying and selling grain, handling about three hundred thousand bushels a year through J. M. Camp, of Bement. His son George W. now has charge of the business and attends to the office work for his father.

At Bement, Illinois, March 16, 1872, Mr. Larson was united in marriage to Miss Johanna Nelson, who was also born in Sweden, April 14, 1842, and came to America when twenty-six years of age. Two children have been born to them, namely : George W., who was graduated at the Bement high school in 1893, and received a diploma from Brown's Business College of Decatur, the following year; and Eleanora, who is also a graduate of the Bement high school. The home of this family is a model one, being complete in all its appointments and elegantly furnished. It was built in 1901 by James Howard, a contractor of Bement from plans made by a Chicago architect, and without an exception is the finest home in Piatt county, having cost about eight thousand dollars. It contains fifteen rooms lighted and ventilated by a large number of windows, is heated by hot water, and supplied with hot and cold water. The grounds are beautifully laid off and adorned with flower beds, and the walks are all of cement. In addition to his own private residence Mr. Larson owns all of the houses at Voorhies and much other property.

He was reared in the Lutheran faith, but he and his family now attend the Christian church. Politically, he is a stanch Republican and has been a delegate to various county conventions of his party. For five years he served as postmaster of Voorhies under the first administration of President Cleveland, and also under President Harrison, and his son, George, is now filling that office. He is a man of exceptionally good business and executive ability, and to his own untiring efforts and good management is due his wonderful success in life.

Miss Lyda Coleman

Miss Lyda Coleman, the well-known librarian of the Allerton Public Library of Monticello, is a native of that city and a daughter of Dr. J. W. and Carrie R. (King) Coleman. The mother is now deceased and with the exception of Lyda, all of the six children of the family have also passed away. Dr. Coleman has been engaged in the prac- tice of medicine in Monticello since 1860, and is one of the leading physicians and prominent citizens of that place. He was one of the organizers of the Monticello Cemetery Association in 1873, and has been its secretary ever since. He also assisted in organizing the Monticello high school and was president of the board in 1865, 1866, 1867, 1868 and 1899. For a number of years he has been a member of the United States board of pension examiners, and has served for some time as commander of Franklin Post, No. 256, G: A. R. His daughter obtained her preliminary education in the public schools of Monticello and later entered Farmer's College at College Hill, Ohio, where she continued her studies until the close of the junior year. In June, 1897, she assumed the duties of librarian in the Allerton Public Library, and has since filled that position in a most creditable and satisfactory manner.

Jesse Bushee

Jesse Bushee, an honored veteran of the Civil War, who is now living a retired life in White Heath, Illinois, was born in Fairfield county, Ohio, on the i ith of September, 1840, and is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Gettings) Bushee. The father was a native of Pennsylvania, born in 1787, and on leaving that state removed to Ohio, where he engaged in farming until his death. The mother died in 1852. In their family were seven children, but our subject is the only one of the number now living.

In the county of his nativity Jesse Bushee spent the first sixteen years of his life, remaining at home until his mother's death. His education was acquired in the local schools, the temple of learning being a log structure with puncheon floor, slab benches and greased paper windows. On starting out in life for himself he worked as a farm hand by the month until 1856, when he decided to come to Illinois, and by team journeyed with his brother-in-law, Ezra Fosnaugh, across the country to Macoupin county, it requiring about six weeks to make the trip. There Mr. Bushee engaged in splitting rails for about six months, and then came to Piatt county, where he worked on a farm by the month until the Civil war broke out.

Prompted by a spirit of patriotism he entered the service of his country, enlisting for three months in the Twenty-first Illinois Volunteer Infantry - General Grant's old regiment, and was mustered in by General Grant himself. After five months spent in the army he returned home and rented a part of the George Boyers farm, which he operated until the I3th of August, 1862, when he again entered the army, this time as a member of the One Hunded and Seventh Illinois Volunteer Infantry. He was in the march from Glasgow, Kentucky, through Ohio and Indiana to Ironton, where they captured General Morgan and his army. Mr. Bushee, with others of his command, took the prisoners to Cincinnati, and from there went to Lebanon, Kentucky, and on the noted march over the Cumberland mountains, where they were forced to live on two or three small pieces of hardtack per day. He was in the siege of Knoxville and all through the Georgia campaign as far as Atlanta, and was also in the battle at Loudon, Tennessee. Mr. Bushee was taken ill at Atlanta and sent to the hospital at Marietta, Georgia. On his recovering he was granted a furlough and returned home to vote. Later he rejoined his regiment and was in all of the engagements from Atlanta to Resaca, and was in the battles of Buzzard Roost. Kenesaw Mountain and many others, including that of Nashville. After the last named engagement he returned to Cincinnati by boat, and from there went to Washington, D. C., whence he proceeded by boat to Smithland, North Carolina. He was in the fight at Fort Anderson and Raleigh where his command met that of General Sherman, and then proceeded to Salisbury, North Carolina, where he remained until mustered out at the close of the war in the spring of 1865.

After his return home, Mr. Bushee resumed farming on Benjamin F. Cressip's place, but shortly after marriage in 1866 he removed to the farm belonging to Jehu Trotter, where he spent two years, and the following year was passed on the John Jones farm. For one year he made his home in Champaign county, but at the end of that time he returned to Piatt county, operating the Charles Smith farm for two years. He next farmed on property adjoining the village of White Heath, owned by the firm of White & Heath, remaining there until 1890, when he retired from active labor, buying a nice little home in the village and three and a half acres of land at the edge of town.

On the 2d of September, 1866, Mr. Bushee was united in marriage to. Miss Matilda Jane Teats, who was born in Adelphi, Ross county, Ohio, March 27, 1849, and in 1856 came to Piatt county, Illinois, with her parents. Mathias and Mary (Puffmberg) Teats. All of their seven children are now deceased with the exception of Mrs. Bushee and her brother, George W. Teats, of White Heath, who is represented elsewhere in this volume. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Bushee were born five children : Mary Elizabeth, who died at the age of three months; Carrie J., wife of John Cox, a resident of DeLand; Jessie Estella, who is at home with her parents, and is a member of Mount Royal Court of Honor, No. 320, White Heath; Ralph W., who is now working on a farm by the day, but spends his evenings at home; and one who died in infancy. The family is widely and favorably known and their circle of friends is extensive.

Christian Roth

Christian Roth, one of the leading and influential citizens of Blue Ridge township, residing on section 28, was born in Wittenberg, Germany, on the i8th of July, 1834, his parents being William and Elizabeth (Craft) Roth, both of whom were natives of the same province. They were farming people who spent their entire lives in Germany. In their family were eight children, of whom Christian Roth is the fifth in order of birth. He attended the home school until fourteen years of age, and then worked upon a farm up to the time of his emigration to America in the year 1857. A forward look into the future, a mental review of the advantages afforded in his native land and in the new world and a comparison of the opportunities which both offered, led him to cross the Atlantic, and in the year 1857 he sailed from Havre, France, being six weeks upon the voyage. They encountered rough weather and lost three of the sailors, but ultimately the vessel reached the harbor of New York in safety. Mr. Roth landed in that city, but did not tarry long there, immediately coming to the west. He went first to Springfield, Illinois, where he had friends living, and soon afterward he commenced work on a farm in Sangamon county, receiving eighteen dollars per month for his services. This seemed to him a large sum of money when he compared it with the wages paid in Germany. He continued to reside in Sangamon county until 1862, when his patriotic spirit being aroused in defense of his adopted land, he enlisted in the Union army, becoming a member of Company A, One Hundred and Sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry under the command of Captain Yates, an uncle of the present governor of the state. The commander of the regiment was Colonel Latham. Mr. Roth participated in the siege of Vicksburg and took part in a number of the important battles with the Army of the Tennessee. He was very fortunate in that he was never wounded, and after the close of the war he was mustered out in Springfield, Illinois, in 1865.

Following his military experience, Mr. Roth was engaged in conducting a butcher shop in Old Berlin for two years, and then came to Piatt county and purchased land. As a companion and helpmate for the journey of life he chose Miss Julia Ann Auer, a daughter of Mathew Auer, who lived and died in Germany. Mrs. Roth was born in that country and their marriage occurred September 22, 1866. Unto our subject and his wife have been born ten children : Elizabeth, who is the wife of Simeon Keiser, a resident of Champaign county, Illinois, by whom she has four children. John, Teresa, Juliana and Alma; Agnes, who is the wife of German Wesler, a resident of Mansfield, by whom she has two children, William and Lawrence; Mary, the wife of Mark Schudel, by whom she has one daughter, Juliana; Katharine, the wife of Michael Schudel, by.

whom she had three children, John, Mollie and Irene, but the first named is now deceased ; William, a resident farmer of Blue Ridge township, who married Minnie Kruzweg, by whom he has three children, Clarence, Mabel and Emma; Lena, the wife of John Beckenholdt, a resident of Blue Ridge towship; Emma, the wife of Frank Wolf, who is living in Oklahoma ; and Nellie, John and Christian, all at home.

After coming to Piatt county Mr. Roth purchased eighty acres of land which was wild prairie, paying for it ten dollars per acre. Since that time he has carried on agricultural pursuits with excellent success, gradually adding to his landed possessions until they now aggregate four hundred acres, all of which is located' in Blue Ridge township, with the exception of a tract of eighty acres that lies in Hensley township, Champaign county. He carries on general farming, raising both grain and stock. He makes a specialty of beef cattle and of hogs, and the products of the farm annually find a good sale on the market and bring to him a desirable financial reward for his labor. Year by year he has carried on his farm work, making his labors of such force in the business affairs of life that he is to-day one of the substantial citizens of his community.

Mr. Roth belongs to the Presbyterian church, and his wife is a member of the Catholic church. He also belongs to Mansfield Lodge, Xo. 589, I. O. O. F., and in politics he is a Republican. He has served as school director, but at other times has always preferred to .give his time and energies to his business interests. If those who claim that fortune favors certain individuals above others, will but examine into the life records of the majority of successful men. it will be found that the great numljer of them have gained their possessions as Mr. Roth has done, though close application, earnest labor and unfaltering perseverance. Coming to America empty-handed he has adapted himself to the changed conditions of this country, has improved the opportunities which have come to him and to-day is one of the men of affluence in Blue Ridge township, where he is also known as a loyal citizen. No native born son of America could have been more true to her interests during the dark days of. the Civil war and his entire life has been characterized by unswerving fidelity to this land.

Charles Miner

This well-known and highly" esteemed citizen of Goose Creek township, who carries on general farming on section 21, has spent his entire life in that location, being torn on a farm on the same section, March 12, 1857. His father, James G. Miner, was a native of New York, his birth having occurred on the 27th of October, 1814, but he was principally reared and educated in Chillicothe, Ohio, his family having removed to that state during his boyhood. His parents were Jonathan and Mary (Mallet) Miner. The former was born in Connecticut in 1783, and in early life removed to New York, where in 1816 he married Mary Mallet, a native of that state. His second removal made him a resident of Ross county, Ohio. By trade he was a cabinet-maker and followed that occupation throughout life, dying in 1867, at the ripe old age of eighty- four years. His wife had passed away in 1854.

for a number of years, spending twenty-one years at Clarksburg, Ohio. In 1856 he came to Monticello, Illinois, where he was similarly employed for five years, and then turned his attention to farming, renting land in that vicinity. Ere long he was able to purchase a farm in Willow Branch township, but in 1867 he sold that place and bought two hundred and fifty-seven acres of land on section 21, Goose Creek township, where he lived until life's labors were ended in death on the 24th of March, 1900. He was married April 26, 1836, to Miss Emaline Fleming, who was born in Kent county, Delaware, in 1818, and was a daughter of Richard and Piercy (Harrington) Fleming, natives of Maryland and Delaware, respectively. During her infancy her parents removed to Ross county, Ohio, and in her new home she grew to womanhood. Her father, who was a tailor by trade, died May 2, 1847, at the age of sixtyfive years, and her mother departed this life November 8, 1852, at the age of sixty-seven. She was a life long member of the Methodist Episcopal church and a most estimable lady.

Charles Miner is the fifth in order of birth in a family of six children. Annie, the eldest, is now the widow of James Harrington, a carpenter of Monticello, who made the first wagon ever manufactured in Piatt county and dropped dead at his work, about six years ago. Ira married May Broffet and is engaged in farming in Goose Creek township. Elbert is living retired in Monticello. Richard married Hannah Stewart and is now living a retired life in Mansfield. Eliza is the wife of Jacob Warner, a farmer near Mahomet, Illinois.

During his boyhood Charles Miner attended the public schools of Goose Creek township and aided in carrying on the home farm. At the age of seventeen he commenced operating a part of his father's land on the shares, and on the death of the latter the property was divided among the heirs and he came into possession of sixty-two acres of the old homestead, which he now farms quite successfully. He raises principally corn and oats and keeps a good grade of stock for his own use. There is a good brick house upon his place, surrounded by beautiful shade trees, and he has set out a new orchard and equipped his farm with the latest improved machinery for carrying on 'his work in the best and easiest manner.

On the I2th of April, 1876, Mr. Miner was united in marriage to Miss Mary Shafer, a daughter of Samuel and Mahala (Coffel) Shafer, the former a native of Ohio, and the latter of Indiana. Mrs. Miner is the oldest of their children, the others being Elizabeth, wife of Lorenzo Tinsmon, who is living retired in Monticello. John, who married Dora Frey and follows'farming in Monticello township; Susie, wife of Elijah Parsons, foreman of the' tile-yard at Monticello; Charles, a horse-buyer and trainer of Monticello; Addie, wife of Albert Plunk, a farmer of Sangamon township; and three who died in infancy.

Mr. and Mrs. Miner have seven children : Olga, wife of Oliver Hostler, a farmer living near Monticello; Fenton, who married Gertrude Widdershine and is a clerk in his brother-in-law's grocery store at Monticello; Samuel, a fireman on the Illinois Central Railroad and a resident of Champaign; Grace, wife of Thomas Parsons, a farmer of Monticello township ; Richard, who assists in the operation of the home farm ; and Josie and Charlie, also at home. In his political affiliations Mr. Miner is a strong Republican and he takes a deep and commendable interest in public affairs.

Frederick Hamman

Frederick Hamman, who is successfully engaged in agricultural pursuits on section 28, Cerro Gordo township, was born in Pike county, Ohio, on the 2d of February, 1855, and is a son of Franz and Kate (Rocky) Hamman, also natives of that state, the former born in Pike county, the latter in Fairfield county. Coming to Illinois in 1868, the father was engaged in farming in Morgan, Sangamon and Macon counties for some years, and afterward lived retired in Piatt county, where he died at the home of his son, William, in 1890, at the age of seventy-one years. His wife survived him and passed away at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Elizabeth Hamman, in Bement, in January, 1903, when in her eighty-fourth year.

The ten children of the family were as follows : Daniel and William, both residents of Bement township, Piatt county; Philip, a resident of St. Louis ; Nancy, wife of James H. Boyer, of Bement ; David, who died in infancy ; Henry, a resident of Kansas ; Frederick, of this sketch; Elizabeth, wife of Philip Hamman, of Bement ; John, of Kansas ; and George, of Moultrie county, Illinois.

Frederick Hamman's boyhood days were passed amid rural surroundings, and his literary education was received in the common schools of his native county. In 1876, on attaining his majority, he started out in life for himself, and for a number of years operated rented land in Macon county, Illinois. About 1887 he purchased eighty acres of unimproved land on section 27, Cerro Gordo township, and also bought an improved place of one hundred and sixty acres on section 28. Both farms are now under a high state of cultivation and yield to the owner a good return for the care and labor expended upon them.

On the 6th of March, 1884, Mr. Hamman married Miss Nettie M. Wade, a native of Macon county and a daughter of Thomas and Martha (Myers) Wade. Her father is now deceased, but her mother is still living and now makes her home in Warrensburg, Macon county. To Mr. and Mrs. Hamman were born seven children, namely : Lovina ; Mabel. Thurman; Everett; Clifford, who died in infancy ; Flossie and Annetta. The family hold membership in the Church ot

God, of which Mr. Hamman is one of the elders and also a trustee, and he has served as superintendent of the Sunday-school at Gulliford schoolhouse and as assistant superintendent at Milmine. He has held the office of school director in Cerro Gordo township and has ever taken an active interest in promoting the social, educational and moral welfare of the community in which he has resided. He is an upright, honorable man, and has the confidence and respect of all.