Piatt County, Illinois - Biographical sketches, 1903 (part 4 of 13)

took them about fourteen days to make the trip, at times being able to travel only four miles per day. In 1868 the father located permanently in Piatt county, where he found the prairies covered with ponds and sloughs and most oj: the land wild and unbroken. He purchased an eighty acre tract from the Indiana, Decatur & Western Railroad, now the Champaign, Havana & Western road, for which he paid eighteen dollars per acre. It was all wild and only about thirty acres were then fit for cultivation, the remainder being under water. The village of Pierson has be>en laid out upon this place, which now belongs to our subject, and was named in his honor. The father tiled this land and made many improvements thereon. For many years he successfully engaged in general farming and stock-raising and was also interested in the grain and mercantile business at Pierson for eight years as a member of the firm of Pierson & Son, our subject being the junior partner. His fellow citizens recognizing his worth and ability called upon him to serve as commissioner of Unity township for the long period of nineteen years, and for two years he filled the office of justice of the peace and as tax assessor one year. His friends and neighbors often sought his counsel and he was a man of marked influence in the community where he resided. He was practically the founder of the Missionary Baptist church here and gave the land on which it and the parsonage stood tobe the property of the church as long as it stood there, but the buildings have since been removed. For over forty years Mr. Pierson was a member of the Masonic lodge at Atwood and was also a prominent member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows for many years, holding the office of treasurer in both organizations for some time. After his retirement from active business, he devoted considerable attention to his apiary, having forty stands, and he found great pleasure in working among his bees. In his political views he was a Democrat and as every true American citizen should do he took an active interest in public affairs. After a useful and well-spent life he passed away July 6, 1898, honored and respected by all who knew him, and his wife departed this life February 8, 1896.

The children of the family still living are : Mary J., wife of A. Beedle and a resident of Garrett, Douglas county, Illinois ; Catherine, wife of H. J. Rigney, the oldest merchant of Pierson ; Candacy, wife of Melborn Bell, who has a fruit farm near Redlands, California; A. D., who is fourth in order of birth; J. G., a member of the firm of Pierson & Fisher, hardware merchants of Pierson ; Emma, wife of James White, of Moultrie county, Illinois ; and Mame, wife of Richard Willis, a fruit farmer of Redlands, California.

A. D. Pierson attended the public schools of Piatt county and gained a good practical business education as his father's assistant. For a time he conducted a hotel and livery stable in Buffalo, Illinois, and since then has made his home uninterruptedly in Piatt county. He had a splendid farm of one hundred and sixty acres on section 21, Unity township, north of Pierson, and on selling that place he purchased the old homestead where he now resides. This farm consists of one hundred and eighty-four acres on section 33, Unity township, just south of Pierson, and is a well-improved and valuable tract. Mr. Pierson is engaged principally in raising broom-corn and is regarded as one of the most progressive and practical farmers of Piatt county.

marriage of Mr. Pierson and Miss Susan J. Hook, a daughter of John and Catherine (Montgomery) Hook. Her father was born in Ross county, Ohio, and was but twelve years of age on his removal to Moultrie county, Illinois, with his parents, Jacob and Susan (Frederick) Hook, the family locating there in 1847. The unbroken prairies abounded in wild game and the Hook family experienced many of the hardships and trials of pioneer life in their new home. Mrs. Pierson is the oldest in a family of ten children, all of whom reached man and womanhood, and six of the number are still living, the others being Mrs. Sarah Shultz; Amanda, who married Hiram Meece, of Moultrie county; James, who married Maggie Dick ; P. C, who married Alice Chase; and Harvey. The mother of these children died and the father subsequently married Mrs. Susan Davis, and since August, 1902, has lived a retired life in Pierson. He is one of a family of six children and the living are all residents of Moultrie county with exception of Mrs. Pierson's father.

Our subject and his wife have six children : Willis C., Elmer Elsworth, Charley C., Pearl, Grover G. and Samuel D. Willis C., named for his grandfather, was married in May, 1903, to Miss Blanche Benner and lives on the home farm. Mr. Pierson is a member of the Missionary Baptist church and a stanch supporter of the Democratic party. For five years he efficiently served as ditch commissioner and has been a valuable member of the school board for fifteen years, taking an active interest in educational affairs and in the material upbuilding and prosperity of his township and county. He is a man of progressive ideas and sound judgment which renders him an important factor in public affairs.

Fifty years have been added to the cycle of the centuries since Dr. William Noecker came to Monticello. He had just graduated from the Starling Medical College, and here he entered upon his professional career, in which he was destined to gain honor and distinction. For thirty years he devoted his energies to the alleviation of human suffering and then he put aside professional cares to engage in the banking business in which he continued for about twenty years, being the "president, as well as the founder of the First National Bank of Monticello. Among the earnest men whose depth of character and strict adherence to principles excite the admiration of contemporaries, Dr. Noecker was prominent and he was as influential in financial circles as he was active in the practice of medicine. Banking institutions are the heart of the commercial body, indicating the healthfulness of trade, and the bank that follows a safe, conservative business policy does more to establish confidence in times of widespread financial depression than anything else. Such a course did the First National Bank of Monticello follow under the able management of its president, the subject of this review. .For a half century he was one of the active business men of Piatt county, and probably no single individual was more widely or favorably known within its borders.

The Doctor was a native of Northumberland county, Pennsylvania, born in April, 1823, and represented an old family of Berks county, that state. It was in the latter county that his paternal grandfather spent his entire life, and there it was that

John Noecker, the father of the Doctor, was born. After arriving at years of maturity, however, he married and removed to Northumberland county, where he engaged in farming. His wife bore the maiden name of Maria Stump, and was also a native of Berks county, but both spent their last days in Northumberland county, where they had long resided and where they reared their family of twelve children, all of whom reached adult age, the youngest to pass away being forty years of age at the time of death.

Dr. Noecker spent the first fifteen years of his life under the parental roof and then accompanied an elder brother to Pickaway county, Ohio. As there were no railroads then they traveled in a spring wagon drawn by a team of horses, and for some years thereafter the Doctor was connected with farm work. 'He also embraced every opportunity possible for securing an education, and 'in 1849 he began teaching, which profession he followed for two years. At the end of that time he resolved to give his attention to other professional labor and took up the study of medicine, Dr. Peter K. Hull, of Circleville, Ohio, directing his reading. In the winter of 1851 he became a student in the Starling Medical College, of Columbus, Ohio, where he continued to attend lectures until February, 1853, when he was graduated and received his degree. In March he started for Monticello with the intention of establishing an office and engaging in practice here.

Westward of Ohio lay a section of the country as yet largely unimproved and in many sections the work of cultivation and development had scarcely been begun. Methods of travel were then very primitive as compared to the parlor coaches on the railroads of to-day, and the young physician traveled by stage from Columbus to Cincinnati, where he took passage on an Ohio river boat. On reaching the Mississippi he proceeded up that stream to Alton and on by rail to Springfield, which was the nearest railroad station to Monticello. He learned that at eight o'clock the next morning the stage would start for Piatt county. He made preparations to continue his journey at that time and when the hour arrived he saw a team drive to the hotel, to which was attached a two-wheeled cart, and on the axle was a dry-goods box. The Doctor engaged passage in this primitive vehicle but the driver refused to take both his trunks and he was obliged to leave one behind. Three times the driver stopped to change horses and yet it was three o'clock on the following morning before they arrived at their destination. In such a manner did Dr. Noecker arrive in Monticello, which was then a mere village in the midst of a sparsely settled region. At that time the merchants largely bought their goods in Springfield and brought them by team to Monticello and Dr. Noecker soon made arrangements with the teamster to bring his trunk.

Then began his professional labor here. He formed a partnership with Dr. C. R. Ward, but the connection continued for only a few months, after which Dr. Noecker practiced alone. His was the usual experience of the physician who settles upon the frontier in a thinly populated district. Calls came to him from long distances, and necessitated hard rides at all hours and through all kinds of weather. Most of the settlers lived in the timber regions bordering the Sangamon river and Goose and Camp creeks. There was little money in circulation and thus collections were very difficult, but as the years advanced and the people prospered Dr. Noecker received a profitable and extensive patronage. For thirty years he continued in practice here and into many a household carried comfort and cheer. His professional skill was continually augmented by his reading and research and viewed from both a professional and financial standpoint his labors were crowned with success. Great had been the changes which had occurred during that time, the country having become thickly populated, while science, too, had made marked advance, rendering the labors of the progressive physician much more beneficial. With a nature that could never content itself with mediocrity, Dr. Noecker had continually kept abreast of the times, and many of his patrons felt loath to part with his professional services when he determined to retire from the practice of his profession. He then turned his attention to the banking business and established the Bank of Monticello, now the First National Bank, which has become one of the safe and reliable moneyed institutions of this part of the state.

In 1861 was celebrated the marriage of Dr. Noecker and Miss Ella Britton, a native of Ross county, Ohio, and a daughter of John and Jane Britton. They had but one child, who died at the age of four years. Mrs. Noecker is a most estimable lady, cultured and of innate refinement, and over her pleasant home she presides with gracious and charming hospitality.

as a member of the school board and as city treasurer. There were many elements in his life history worthy of emulation. The secret of his success was undoubtedly that he had a talent for hard work and close application, combined with a mind which delighted in investigation. Realizing that "there is no excellence without labor" he attended closely to the details of his profession and of his banking business, carefully superintending each department. Such methods cannot fail to win success, but it is not the acquirement of success which is so deserving of commendation, but the use of it in ways that benefit mankind, and in this regard Monticello's citizens speak of Dr. Noecker in terms of highest praise. He died very suddenly of throat trouble, May 4, 1897,- at Columbus, Indiana.

S. M. Funk

S. M. Funk, ex-county treasurer and dealer in hardware, cutlery, buggies and harness at Cerro Gordo, has resided in Piatt county since the year 1853. He is a native of Indiana and a son of Abraham and Eliza J. (McKinney) Funk, the former a native of Pennsylvania, and the latter of Indiana. The father lived in his native state until 1836, when he removed to Bloomington, Illinois, where he was married, and there made his home until 1853. In that year he arrived in Piatt county, taking up his abode in Willow Branch township, where for several years he was engaged in farming. He then removed to Macon county, Illinois, where he lived for a short time, but soon returned to Piatt county, and at this time settled in the village of Cerro Gordo, where he lived a retired life until called to his final rest in the year 1890. His widow still survives him and is widely known as Grandma Funk in Monticello, where she makes her home. There were five children born unto this worthy couple, four of whom are now living, as follows : Emma, the widow of Sanford Tracy, who resides in Cerro Gordo ; Samuel M., whose name introduces this record ; Amelia, the wife of William Edie, of Monticello; and Theodore, who married Alice Good and now resides in Decatur, Illinois. For several years he was a successful teacher of Piatt county.

Like the other members of the family Samuel M. Funk pursued his education in the common schools and had no advantages beyond that. After putting aside his textbooks he turned his attention to agricultural pursuits in Cerro Gordo township and was engaged in farming until after the inauguration of the Civil war, when in response to his country's need he offered his services. It was in August, 1862, that he joined Company K, One Hundred and Seventh Illinois Infantry under Colonel Thomas Snell of Clinton, and at a later date Colonel Lowry of Monticello commanded the regiment. Captain U. M. Lawrence was in command of the company which took part in a number of important engagements, including the battle of Knoxville, the Atlanta campaign and the capture of Wilmington and Raleigh. Mr. Funk was never injured in any way and at Salisbury, North Carolina, on the loth of July, 1865, he received an honorable discharge after three years of faithful and valorous service.

Mr. Funk returned to Cerro Gordo township, where he resumed his agricultural pursuits. He was married to Miss Sarah A. Chilson. a native of Ohio and a daughter of William A. Chilson, who was one of the early settlers of Piatt county, where he arrived in 1857. Here he followed farming, which he carried on continuously until his death. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Funk have been born eight children, of whom four are now living, namely : John E., who is a partner in his father's store; Samuel E., who is now farming in Cerro Gordo township and who served as county deputy treasurer of Piatt county for four years; Cora A., at home; Aaron L., who is assisting his father in the store and who through several years was a capable teacher of the county. The children of the family who have passed away are Eugene M., who died in November, 1902; Elvaretta, William A. and Charles W.

Mr. Funk engaged in farming in Cerro Gordo township until 1883, when he removed to the village of that name and entered upon his present business. He yet owns a fine farm of 240 acres in Cerro Gordo township, which is operated by his children. He now has two large stores, in one of which he carries a full line of general hardware, stoves, etc. To the conduct of this business he gives his personal attention. The other store is stocked with a good large supply of buggies and harness. Mr. Funk has secured a good patronage and now has a profitable trade. He has also been quite active and well known in public affairs. For several years he served as collector of Cerro Gordo township and in 1898 he was elected county treasurer of Piatt county in which capacity he ably served for four years or until December, 1902, when he retired from office as he had entered it - with the confi- ' dence and good will of all. In politics he has always been a Republican, taking an active interest in the growth and success of the party and is recognized as one of its leader in this part of the county. Socially, he is a member of the Grand Army Post, No. 210 of Cerro Gordo and both he and his wife hold membership relations with the Methodist Episcopal church in the town. He has been one of its members for more than forty years and takes much interest in church work. Mr. Funk has been a very successful business man and no man is better known in this part of the county.

John E. Comerford

John E. Comerford is one of the younger and prominent business men of the village of Bement, actively associated with its industrial interests, and he possesses the qualities - industry, enterprise and laudable ambition - which will bring him future success. He is one of Piatt county's native sons, his birth having occurred in Cerro Gordo township, near Milmine, on the 26th of April, 1877. He is a son of Robert and Mary (Seitz) Comerford, His father was a native of Ireland, who when but sixteen years of age left the Emerald Isle for the new world, taking up his abode in Piatt county, Illinois. In 1846 he first purchased a farm in Cerro Gordo. township of eighty acres of prairie land, and at once began its development, making excellent improvements upon it and transforming it until it was a rich and productive farm. From time to time he added to the original purchase until he was the owner of four hundred and eighty acres of valuable and improved land. -He carried on his work with marked enterprise and industry and by his careful management and diligence he accumulated a handsome competence. His death occurred upon the old homestead in January, 1895, at the advanced age of sixty-five years. He belonged to the Catholic church and was a Democrat in his political views, but he never sought or desired political preferment. His life record furnishes to his children an example that is indeed worthy of emulation, for he so lived as to merit the regard of all with whom he came in contact. His wife survived him and now resides in Bement, where she has purchased a pleasant home, being there surrounded by the comforts of life. By her marriage she became the mother of six children, five of whom are still living. Barney, who resides near Milmine, occupies a part of the old home farm in Cerro Gordo township, and devotes his attention to its cultivation. He married Bridget Tynan and they have three children : Lona, Mary and Daniel. Anna is the wife of John Uhl, of Pana, Illinois, who is a traveling salesman for a hide and leather house of Cincinnati. They have four children : Mary, Thomas, Victor and Augusta. Michael, who resides upon a part of the old home farm, wedded Alice Gulliford, a native of this county, and they had one child that died in infancy. Robert has recently removed from Bement to Monticello, where he is now living. Joseph died in infancy. The youngest member of the family is John E.

Mr. Comerford of this review entered the public schools at the usual age and continued his studies in Bement until after he had completed the high school course. Subsequently he entered St. Bede College, in LaSalle, Illinois, and was graduated in that institution when eighteen years of age. Returning to his home in Piatt county he accepted a clerkship in a clothing store in Cerro Gordo, and was also employed as a clerk in Bement after the removal of the family to this place about eight years ago. He continued in the clothing business for about four years in Bement, and then followed the undertaking business as a member of the firm of Evans & Comerford, his connection therewith covering two years. On the expiration of that" period he sold his interest to A. Swinson, who still conducts the business. Mr. Comerford then engaged in the manufacture of brooms at his present location, and from the beginning his business has. steadily and constantly increased so that he now employs a large force of expert broommakers. They also manufacture all kinds of brushes that are made from broomcorn. In the control of this enterprise Mr. Comerford has displayed marked business ability, executive force and keen discrimination. He forms his plans readily and is determined in their execution and " along legitimate business lines he is winning very creditable success. On the 29th of April, 1903, in Ivesdale, Champaign county, Illinois1, was celebrated a pretty wedding ceremony which united the destinies of John E. Comerford and Miss Josephine Foohy, a native of Ivesdale. The wedding was solemnized in St. Joseph's church by its pastor, Rev. Charles C. O'Brien, who, assisted by Rev. Hawley, of Bement, and Rev. Berry, of Philo, performed the ceremony in connection with solemn mass. The bride is a daughter of John Foohy, who is now living a retired life in Ivesdale. where he was formerly engaged in the grain business. He has always been a prosperous and pro- gressive man and has accumulated considerable property. He is a communicant of the Catholic church there and a wellknown and influential citizen. Mrs. Comerford was educated in Ivesdale and in St. Mary's Academy, near Terre Haute, Indiana.

Both Mr. and Mrs. Comerford are communicants of the Roman Catholic church, and fraternally he is connected with the Knights of Pythias Lodge, No. 199, of Bement, in which he has passed all of the chairs. He votes with the Democracy, but has never sought or desired public office. A young man of genial disposition and kindly manner, he is popular with a large circle of friends, and in Bement is widely and favorably krown. Already he has established for himself a position in the business world and those who know him have no hesitancy in predicting for him a successful future.

H. W. Buckle

The press has not only recorded the history of advancement, but has also ever been the leader in the work of progress and improvement - the vanguard of civilization. The philosopher of some centuries ago proclaimed the truth that "the pen is mightier than the sword," and the statement is continually being verified in the affairs of life. In molding public opinion the power of the newspaper cannot be over estimated, but at all events its influence is greater than that of any other single agency. Mr. Buckle is connected with the journalistic interests of Monticello as the manager of the Monticello Bulletin Company, and through much of his

A native of Ohio, Mr. Buckle was born on the banks of the Ohio river, in Gallia county, and began his education in private schools, while later he continued his studies in the National Normal University, at Lebanon, where he was graduated with the class of 1892. He next matriculated in Rio Grande College, at Rio Grande, Ohio, completing his work there by graduation in 1895. Turning his attention to journalistic work he was for some time employed on leading newspapers in Wisconsin, and later he began teaching, which profession he followed for thirteen years, four of which were spent in Kansas, two in Ohio, four in Illinois and the remainder of the time being spent in village schools and in graded schools at Mound City and Milan, Illinois. At Geneseo, Illinois, he published a daily and weekly paper, and from the latter place he went to Freeport, Illinois, where for a year he was interested in the Freeport Daily Democrat. In May, 1901, he bought an interest in the Monticello Bulletin. This paper was established in 1858 and is the oldest paper in the county, having been published by a succession of proprietors. The paper is now owned by a stock company. In January, 1903, it was incorporated and has one hundred stockholders with a paid up capital of five thousand dollars. Its officers are as follows : James Hicks, president ; H. W. Buckle, secretary ; T. J. Ater, treasurer ; and William C. Handlin, vice president, and the board of directors numbers nine members.

Mr. Buckle is now the manager of the paper, which has a large circulation in Monticello and Piatt county, and this constitutes the journal an excellent advertising medium. The offices are equipped with a large two revolution cylinder press, a new modern gasoline engine, a folder, a perforator, job press, paper cutter, type, etc., in fact, it is the best equipped newspaper and job plant in Piatt county. Mr. Buckle is thoroughly familiar with newspaper work in all its various departments and as manager of the Monticello Bulletin he has developed a paper which is a credit to the city.

John H. Smock

John H. Smock, who is a son of Samuel Smock, follows farming on section 3, Monticello township. He was born on the old home farm in Piatt county, November 15, 1861, and was educated in the common schools. He can remember that in his early life there were many log houses in the district and the school was one of the primitive constructions supplied with slab benches, while planks hinged into the wall served as desks, but long since such buildings have given place to buildings of modern construction. Farm work claimed his attention during the summer months, while the duties of the schoolroom occupied his time through the winter seasons. He put aside his text-books about 1881 and continued upon the home place until he had attained his majority, when he began farming in partnership with his father. They made a specialty of the raising of thoroughbred hogs, which they carried on extensively until cholera occasioned the loss of many of these animals. They had mostly hogs of the Poland China breed. Mr. Smock continued to carry on farming in connection with his father until 1893, when he was married.

Mrs. John H. Smock was in her maidenhood Miss Emma Frances Hubbart, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hubbart, of Neosho county, Missouri, but who were early settlers of Piatt county, removing from here to Missouri about thirty years ago. At the time of his marriage Mr. Smock began by renting the farm upon which he resides, then known as the old Hast farm. This he has continued to operate for ten years. The entire place shows general improvement and the farm indicates the careful supervision of the owner who is a progressive and practical agriculturist. He has planted a good orchard, has built a new residence and outbuildings and has continued the work of improvement until to-day the farm is valuable and most attractive. For three years Mr. Smock has served as school director and he gives his political support to the Democracy. He belongs to White Heath Camp, No. 2219, Modern Woodmen of America, and his wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church.

John M. Camp

John M. Camp, one of the early settlers of Piatt county now residing in the village of Bement, was born at Mount Morris, New York, on the 3d of January, 1832. The Camp family is of English lineage and the paternal grandfather of our subject was Abram Camp, who was a physician and spent the greater part of his life in the Empire state. He never came to the west except to visit his children and he died in New York at an advanced age. Eldad Cicero Camp, the father of our subject, was born in Connecticut in 1804, and in early life became a resident of New York, where for many years he followed- farming. Upon his removal to Ohio, he purchased land in Knox county and continued its cultivation until 1865, when he continued on his westward way, this time locating in Piatt county, Illinois. For more than thirty years he remained a resident of this county, dying in the village of Bement in 1896. Throughout his business career he carried on general farming and stock-raising. At the time of his arrival here he purchased a tract of raw prairie land which he cultivated and improved, developing it into a good home for himself and family. He wedded Miss Minerva M. Hinman, who was born in Bradford county, Pennsylvania, their marriage being celebrated in Mount Morris, New York. She died in Ohio in 1863 when about fifty-nine years of age. Both were members of the Presbyterian church, living lives in consistent harmony with its teachings, and for many years he was an elder in the church, his labors in its behalf being far-reaching and beneficial. His political support in early life was given to the Whig party and upon its1 dissolution he joined the ranks of the new Republican party, with which he continued to affiliate until his demise. Unto him and his wife were lx>rn thirteen children, six of whom are yet living, the eldest of the survivors being John M. Camp. The others are James H., who resides in Tolono, Champaign county, Illinois; William M., who is president of the First National Bank of Bement; Eldad C.. a resident of Knoxville, Tennessee; Curtis, who is engaged in the grain business in Bement; and Henry N., who is also living in Knoxville, Tennessee. Two of the sisters died in early life, but the other reached years of maturity. Those who passed awray in early childhood were both named Harriet and the elder died at the age of five years and the younger at the age of two years. Emily F. became the wife of Dr. Edward Swaney and both are now deceased. She resided in Bement and died at the age of fifty-eight years. Stanley departed this life at the age of twenty-five years. Edgar, who responded to his country's call for aid and became a captain of the One Hundred and Seventh Illinois Infantry, was killed in the Civil war. Hanson, who was a boot and shoe merchant of Bement, died in this place about two years ago, leaving a widow, but no children. Frederick departed this life about 1865.

John M. Camp was only four years of age when his parents removed from New York to Knox county, Ohio, and in the latter place he was reared to manhood and obtained his education in the common schools. When not engaged with the duties of the schoolroom he assisted his father in the work of the home farm. In his youth he also learned the carpenter's trade which he followed for a number of years in Ohio and which he continued to make his life work after his removal to Illinois. Settling in Bement he did the carpenter work and was the contractor for the first house erected in this village. It was built in 1855 and was the property of Joseph Rodman. Mr. Camp also built the first schoolhouse that was erected here and took and executed the contracts for the erection of the Christian and Presbyterian churches in this place. Monuments to his enterprise are still seen in a number of substantial buildings in Bement, but in 1872 he discontinued his connection with industrial life and turned his attention to commercial pursuits, becoming a grain merchant here. He has since followed the business and to-dav he owns an elevator having a capacity of thirty thousand bushels. He is also largely interested in the grain trade at Ivesdale and at Vorhies, Illinois, owning the elevators at different places having greater capacity than the one at Bement. His operations in grain are now extensive and profitable, his business returning to him an excellent financial income.

In ;86o was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Camp and Miss Margaret Holm, a native of Ohio. The wedding took place in Marion county, Ohio, and with her husband Mrs. Camp came to Illinois, her death occurring in Bement in 1870.

For his second wife Mr. Camp chose Frances A. Kimber, a native of England who came to the United States to live with her sister, but her parents spent their entire lives in England. Three children have been born of the second marriage, of whom two are living: Mallary C., the eldest, was born in Bement, November 15, 1876, was educated in the common schools and is now engaged in the grain trade with his father. He married Lulu B. Bennett, a native of Ohio. He is a popular representative of the Masonic fraternity and he also belongs to the Presbyterian church. William R., the second of the family, died when about three years old. Lena Z., also born in Bement, resides at home.

Mr. Camp gives his political support to the Republican party and has served as the supervisor of the county, as a member of the town board and in other offices, yet has never been a politician in the .sense of officeseeking, preferring to devote his energies to his business affairs. Both he and his wife hold membership in the Presbyterian church and for some years he has been a member of the board of finance. He also belongs to the

Masonic fraternity and is true to its teachings and its tenets. For almost a half century Mr. Camp has made his home in Piatt county and his mind bears the impress of its early annals as well as of the later events which have shaped its history. He has been particularly active in business and public life in this section of the county and has cooperated along many lines for public improvement and progress. In his business dealings he has always been found reliable and energetic, and what he has accomplished has been won through his own well directed efforts. By those who know him his worth is widely acknowledged and his name is inscribed high on the roll of honored pioneers of Piatt county.

Andrew J. Rickey

After years of honest toil, mostly devoted to agricultural pursuits, Andrew J. Richey is now living a retired life in the village of Atwood, enjoying a well-earned rest. He was born in Shelby county, Kentucky, on the 2d of October, 1827, his parents being Robert and Elizabeth (Biggs) Richey, who were also natives of the Blue Grass state and were married in Shelby county in 1826. When our subject was about five years of age the family removed to Montgomery county, Indiana, being among the early settlers of that locality, and later they lived for some time in Vigo and Sullivan counties, that state, where the father was engaged in general farming. He died in Vigo county in 1861, and his wife, who long survived him, passed away in the same county in 1901, at the extreme old age of ninetv-four years. Unto them were born

Andrew J. Richey spent his boyhood and youth upon a farm, and was educated in the old-time subscription schools so common in that day in Indiana, the temple of learning being a primitive log structure with its rude furnishings. As soon as old enough to be of any assistance he began to aid in the work of the farm and throughout his active business life continued to engage in agricultural pursuits. He remained with his father until he attained his majority.

On the gth of November. 1848, Mr. Richey was united in marriage to Miss Barbara Dcty, a native of Indiana, who died in 1867, leaving five children, as follows: Theodore, now a resident of Clay county, Indiana, married Martha Wilson and has five children. Emery married Belle Nolan and died, leaving six children, who, with their mother, reside in Arkansas. James wedded Eva Lumly and with his wife and five children makes his home in Atwood. Illinois. Mary is the wife of James Griffin, a farmer of Unity township, this county, and has eight children. Eli. a resident of Moultrie county, Illinois, married Sarah Wagner and has seven children. Mr. Richey was again married December 12, 1867, his second union being with Mrs. Elizabeth Williams, widow of Cornelius Williams and daughter of John and Catharine (Terry) Moon, who were pioneers of Piatt county and .ire now deceased. This Mrs. Richey was born in Monongahela, Pennsylvania, December 12, 1830, and died in 1901. For his third wife our subject married Elizabeth Doty, a native of Indiana, their wedding being celebrated May 21, 1902.

Indiana until 1862, when he removed to Moultrie county. Illinois, where three years later he bought a farm of two hundred acres in Lowe township, and he also purchased a tract of eighty acres in Unity township, Piatt county, but made his home on the former place, his time and attention being devoted to general farming until his removal to Atwood in 1891. when he retired from business life. On coming to Illinois he found much of this section of the state still wild and unimproved and as the land in many places was low and under water ague was prevalent. Most of his own farm, however, was higher land and he drained the remainder, using a dredging boat. He fenced his property, erected good and substantial buildings and planted the seed from which to-day have grown the large and beautiful trees which now adorn the place. Mr. Richey has been prominently identified with the upbuilding of Atwood and laid out fifteen acres into town lots. Land which he purchased at nine dollars per acre in 1864 is to-day valued at one hundred and twenty-five dollars, while the eighty-acrte tract in Piatt county for which he paid forty-five dollars per acre is now worth one hundred and twenty-five dollars, owing to the rise in value and the many improvements he has placed thereon.

Mr. and Mrs. Richey hold membership in the Methodist Episcopal church of Atwood and have the respect and confidence of all who know them. He cast his first presidential vote for Zachary Taylor and is now a stalwart supporter of the Republican party and its principles. He has efficiently filled the offices of township trustee and school director, assisted in organizing his district and was prominently identified with the upbuilding of Lowe township morally, socially and

George W. Pittman

Although born in Ohio George W. Pittman has spent the greater part of his life in Piatt county, Illinois, and is here widely and favorably known. His birth occurred on the 24th of February, 1837, in Butler county, Ohio, his parents being Aaron Ford and Katherine Bake Pittman. The father was born in New York and the mother in the Buckeye state. He devoted his energies to agricultural pursuits, which he carried on in Ohio for a number of years. In 1854, however, he brought his family to Piatt county, Illinois, and here purchased a farm of one hundred and sixty acres, for which he paid eleven dollars per acre. Establishing his home thereon, both he and his wife lived there until called to their final rest, and they were widely known as prominent farming people of the community, enjoying the warm friendship of many with whom they came in contact. Mr. Pittman, who, was born August 14, 1811, died April 19, 1900, and his wife, whose birth occurred on the I7th of February, 1815, passed away on the i3th of August, 1875. In their family were nine children, of whom the subject of this review was the fourth in order of birth : J. V.. who was born March n, 1832, and died July 7, 1893; Jacob Bake, who was born November 17, 1833, and died August u, 1834; George W., born February 24. 1837; Johnson C., who was born April 14, 1841, and died August 22. 1870; William

George W. Pittman acquired his early education in the district schools of Piatt county. He began working by the month when a young man, being employed by George Hayde for sixteen dollars per month. Later he rented his father's farm and thus began agricultural pursuits on his own account. When his labors had brought to him sufficient capital, he made purchase of a tract of land of eighty acres in Blue Ridge township, becoming owner of this property in 1875. About a quarter of a century later he made another purchase, comprising sixty acres, and thus his farm constitutes in all one hundred and forty-one acres. A farm in Piatt county is a synonym for fertile soil and productive fields, if even moderate care is bestowed upon it, so rich is the land. Mr. Pittman raises stock and grain and is very successful in his work.

On the 22d of February, 1893, Mr. Pittman was united in marriage to Miss Jennie Duckwall, who was the third in a family of nine children. Her father, William Duckwall, was born August 15, 1808, and is now living near Dayton, Ohio. Her mother, who bore the maiden name of Caroline Bruner, was born January 27, 1820, and died September 15, 1890. Their children were Sarah Ann, who was born January 21, 1828, and died when but six months old ; John William, born September 27, 1840; Mary Jane, born March 17, 1843, ar|d now the wife of our subject; Laura, born November 17. 1845; Charles, born September 13, 1849; Francis Ash-

Mr. Pittman is well known in Piatt county, having here resided for almost half a century. He has witnessed, therefore, almost the entire growth and development of this portion of the state. He has seen Piatt county when it was largely an unimproved district, when its lands were wild and when the work of cultivation had scarcely been begun. He has borne his full share in the task of improvement here and in all measures for the general good he has taken a deep interest, co-operating in many movements that have resulted for the benefit of the communitv.

Thomas Lamb, Sr

Thomas Lamb, Sr., a retired agriculturist of Bement, now in his ninetieth year, is a true type of the energetic, hardy men who have actively assisted in the development and improvements of this beautiful and fertile agricultural country. His career has been such as to command the respect and confidence of men, and by honest toil and industry he has secured a competence which now enables him to spend the sunset of life in quiet and retirement.

A 'native of Yorkshire, England, Mr. Lamb was born at Kirklavington, April I, 1814, and is a son of Robert and Hannah Lamb, who spent their entire lives in that country. Before coming to America he lived for a time near Middlesex, and in 1854 came to the United States, first located in Woodford county, Kentucky, where he was employed as herdsman for a Mr. Alexander, a large property owner and cattle-raiser. After spending five years in that locality he came to Piatt county, Illinois, and was engaged in farming for Mr. Scott about five years. At the end of that time he purchased one hundred and sixty cares of land about one mile west of Bement, and in his farming operations here he met with remarkable success, becoming the owner of a large amount of land, but he has recently presented each of his sons with one hundred and sixty acres of improved land, though he still retains six hundred acres in this county. The sons have other property besides the quartersections given them by their father.

Before leaving England Mr. Lamb was married in that country to Miss Elizabeth Lee, whose parents, John and Ann Lee, died since our subject and his wife came to the United States. Mr. Lee was a weaver by trade, and both he and his wife were lifelong residents of England, where their daughter was also born and reared. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Lamb were born eleven children, as follows: John, who died in Bement at the age of' nineteen years ; Robert, who married a Miss Fisher and is engaged in farming in Unity township ; Thomas, who married Miss Baker and lives in Bement township; Elizabeth, at home; William, who married a Miss Hall and follows farming in Bement township ; Hannah, deceased ; Charles, who wedded a Miss Duncan and resides in Bement township; Arthur B., who married a Miss Dobson, a daughter of Philip Dobson, of Cerro Gordo township and lives in Bement township: Albert J., who married a Miss Kelly and resides in Bement township; Edward, who is married and makes his home in Unity township ; and Mary J., wife of J. P. Rose, of Bement. The last four were born in this country, the others in England, and the birth of Arthur and Albert occurred in Kentucky.

Throughout his active business life Mr. Lamb continued to engage in agricultural pursuits, but about six years ago he retired and has since made his home in the village of Bement. where he is enjoying a well-earned rest in the midst of all that goes to make life worth the living. He came to this country in limited circumstances, but being industrious, enterprising and honorable in all his dealings he prospered in his undertakings and succeeded in accumulating a handsome competence. He is now a supporter of the Methodist church, but he formerly belonged to the Episcopal church, and his life has been an upright and honorable one.

B. F. Huff

For about twenty years Cerro Gordo has numbered B. F. Huff among its most prominent and progressive citizens. He may well be termed one of the founders of the town, for he has been the promoter of many of its leading business enterprises, and the growth and development of the city depends upon its commercial and industrial activity. His connection with any undertaking insures a prosperous outcome of the same, for it is his nature to carry forward to successful completion whatever he is associated with. He has won for himself an enviable reputation as a careful man of business, and in his dealings is known for his prompt and honorable methods, which have won him the deserved and unbounded confidence of his fellow men. He is now connected with various enterprises of Cerro Gordo, but gives his attention chiefly to the control of the lumber and coal business.

The first representative of the Huff family to settle in Piatt county was Charles Huff, an uncle of our subject, who located here in 1863. B. F. Huff is a native of Coshocton county, Ohio, where his birth occurred in 1853. His parents were Aquilla and Elizabeth (McMorris) Huff, the former a native of Virginia and the latter of Ohio. On account of the institution of slavery Aquilla Huff left the Old Dominion in 1832, and removed to Coshocton county, Ohio, in order to be away from the pernicious influence of the institution which at that time was dominant in the south. In the Buckeye state he turned his attention to agricultural pursuits, which he followed there until 1865, in which year he came to Illinois, settling first in Douglas cdunty. There he successfully engaged in farming until 1881, when he came to the village of Cerro Gordo and here lived a retired life until called to his final rest in March, 1887. At the time of the Civil war he espoused the cause of the Union and held a captain's commission. He was adjutant in his regiment of the Ohio National Guards, and was very loyal to the nation's cause. In both Ohio and Illinois he was regarded as a prominent citizen of his community. His worth was widely acknowledged by a large circle of friends. His wife survived him for a short period, passing away in Ohio while visiting a son, in October, 1888. ' In their family were several children, but these are now living in various sections of the United States.

this branch of the family residing in Piatt county.- After mastering his preliminary studies in the common schools he entered the University of Illinois in 1874, and afterward became a student in the Wesleyan University at Bloomington, this state. In 1881 Mr. Huff and his brothers, W. J. and S. E., established a lumberyard on the site he now occupies, under the firm name of Huff Brothers. Having other business connections in Moultrie and Edgar counties he did not make his home permanently until 1886, when having severed his connection with the lumber business he bought a half interest in a hardware store, with which he was identified until 1891. In that year he sold out and again entered the lumber business. In 1892 he entered the corporation of Huff Brothers Lumber and Planing Mill Company, of Decatur, Moweaqua, Moroa and Cerro Gordo, as its treasurer, and shortly afterward purchased the yard where he still carries on business. He disposed of his interest in the company in 1898, and has since been alone in business at Cerro Gordo. He deals in building materials and coal, with office near the depot, and enjoys n large trade.

Mr. Huff is a man of resourceful business ability, of keen foresight and discrimination; and his wise counsel and untiring activity have been important factors in the successful control of many business interests in Cerro Gordo. For twelve years he has been president of the Building and Loan Association of that place, with which he has been connected since its organization in 1886, and for two years was its secretary. He is now treasurer and a director of the telephone company of Cerro Gordo, and is one of the directors of the

State Bank of Cerro Gordo. In addition to these investments Mr. Huff also owns a small farm situated three miles west of Cerro Gordo, in Macon county.

In 1885 he was married at Moravia, Iowa, to Miss Annie Homer, a native of Streator, Illinois, and a daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth (Brandon) Hprner. Her father was a farmer and a coal miner, and at one time owned the land upon which the city of Streator has been built. There is still a mine near that place known as the Horner coal bank. Both Mr. and Mrs. Huff hold membership in the Methodist Episcopal church, take an active interest in its work, donate liberally to its support and do everything in their power for the extension of its influence. Mr. Huff is nowserving as one of the stewards in the church and is also an active worker in the Sunday-school.

His political support is given to the Republican party, and his opinions carry weight in its councils. In 1901 he wis elected supervisor of Cerro Gordo township, and is now the incumbent in that office for the second term. He is chairman of the committee on county claims and records and a member of the special building committee of the county buildings. For six years he was a member of the school board, and during that time acted as its secretary, and the cause of education received from him valuable assistance in a practical nature. He is now the. president of the township school trustees of Cerro Gordo township. He has held a number of other offices in the township and county, and in all he has been found loyal to the trust reposed in him and capable in the performance of his duties. Socially he is a member of the Piatt Camp,

No. 323, M. W. A., of Cerro Gordo, which is one of the oldest camps in the county. He also belongs to Eclipse Lodge, Knights of Pythias. To him there has come the attainment of a distinguished position in connection with the business interests of Piatt county, and his efforts have been so discerningly directed along welldefined lines of labor that he seems to have realized at any one point of progress the full measure of his possibilities for accomplishment at that point. A man of distinct and forceful individuality, of broad mentality and most mature judgment, he has left and is . leaving his impress upon the business world and his efforts have not only advanced individual prosperity, but have conserved the general welfare of the city and locality in which he makes his home.

Watkins L. Ryder

Honored and respected by all there is no man in Monticello who occupies a more enviable position than Watkins L. Ryder in business and financial circles, not alone on account of the brilliant success he has achieved, but also on account of the honorable, straightforward business policy he has ever followed. He possesses untiring energy, is quick of perception, forms his plans readily and is determined in their execution, and his close application to business and his excellent management have brought to him a high degree of prosperity which is to-day his. He stands as one of the foremost representatives of the real estate and insurance - interests of Piatt county, his business having assumed large proportions. He is also prominent in public affairs, being a cooperant factor in many measures for the general good, and his citizenship is characterized by progression and loyalty.

Mr. Ryder was born in Chaumont, Jefferson county, New York, on the 6th of March, 1834, and comes of English ancestry, the family having been established in this country at an early period in the colonial development of America. The Ryders are of English lineage and the first representative of the name lived in Rhode Island, whence others went to Vermont. It was in the Green Mountain state that Joseph Ryder, the grandfather of our subject, was born in December, 1780. Arriving at years of maturity he wedded Mary Hill, and later removed to Jefferson county, New York, which was then a frontier region, the family being surrounded by pioneer environments. The grandfather purchased a tract of land from a Frenchman named De LaRay, whose realty holdings were very extensive and who sold his land cheap to actual settlers. Clearing a small portion of his home farm Mr. Ryder built thereon a two-story stone house and after comfortably establishing his family in their new home he continued to work in the fields, developing and cultivating his land, making his home upon the old farmstead there until his demise.

It was on the 2ist of December, 1806, in Vermont, that Benjamin Ryder, the father of our subject, was born and during his early boyhood he accompanied his parents to New York, where he was reared on the home farm, assisting in its cultivation until he had attained the age of eighteen years. He then left the parental roof and began work as a raftsman on the St. Lawrence river, transporting lumber. After his marriage he purchased fifty acres of land from Mr. De LaRay and built a log house which later he replaced by a frame dwelling. With characteristic energy he began clearing the property, transforming the wild tract into richly cultivated fields. He afterward extended the boundaries of his farm by the purchase of an additional tract of forty acres adjoining his first property and upon the old homestead he continued to live until his death. He had wedded Ann Caroline Horton, a native of Chaumont, New York, born on the I3th of June, 1806. Her parents were James and Martha (White) Horton, and she was a descendant in the eighth generation of Barabas Horton, who was the first of the name known in America. History gives it that this gentleman was born in the hamlet of Mously in Leicestershire, England, and that he came to the new world as a passenger on the American ship Swallow in 1633 or 1638. After a long voyage he arrived safely at Hampton, Massachusetts. In 1664 he was a resident of New Haven, Connecticut, and assisted in the organization of the Congregational church there. On the 2ist of October, 1670, he sailed for Southhold, Long Island, where he built the first frame house ever erected on the island. It stood for more than two centuries, one of the landmarks of that section of the country. Barabas Horton took a very prominent part in public affairs and served for many years as a magistrate and was a number of times a member of the general assembly in Hartford and New Haven. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Ryder were born eight children : Watkins L., Cornelia, Wallace, Walter, Vanrantz, Mary, Gaylord and Bruce. The father died on the 3 ist of December, 1866, and his wife long surviving him, passed away at the age of ninety-three years.

quietly passed on the old family homestead in the county of his nativity. He is indebted to the public school system for the educational privileges he enjoyed in his youth and when eighteen years of age he began earning his own livelihood as a teacher, following that profession for three winter terms in the Empire state. When twenty-one years of age Mr. Ryder left New York for Ohio, establishing his home in Oberlin, where he further continued his own mental discipline by becoming a student in the university at that place. His residence in Oberlin covered three years during which period he attended college, taught school and also studied law.

The spring of 1858 witnessed his arrival in Monticello, Illinois, and he became a law student in the office of Milligan & Mc- Comas. In the following year he was admitted to the bar and entered upon his professional duties at Bement, where he practiced until 1861. During this time he was captain of the Wide-Awake Company, of which he continued at the head until his enlistment in 1861. The war was then inaugurated and feeling that his first duty was to his country he offered his services to the government in the month of June of that year. He was assigned to duty with Company F, Second Illinois Cavalry and like the others of the command he furnished his own horse and accoutrements. In August of the same year he was mustered into the United States volunteer service and at that time went south, where soon afterward he was detailed to act as sergeant of orderlies to General McPherson. For one year he filled that position and rejoined his regiment, with which he continued in active service until the expiration of his term of enlistment. He was in a number of important engagements which led to the final victory that eventually crowned the Union arms and when three years had been spent in the service he received an honorable discharge at Baton Rouge. Mr. Ryder was always found at his post of duty, faithfully defending the old flag and the cause it represented and he has every reason to be. proud of his military service.

Once more establishing his home in Bement, Mr. Ryder became principal of the schools at that place, continuing his active identification with educational interests until the fall of 1865. He was then called to official service and for eight years acted as county clerk. At the time of his election in 1865 he removed to Monticello, where he has since resided. He retired from office as he had entered it - with the confidence and good will of all concerned. He then turned his attention to real estate and land operations. That business has since claimed his time and energies and has been so capably conducted that his labors have brought to him a handsome financial return. Through all the years Mr. Ryder has had a most comprehensive and accurate knowledge of the value of realty and has thus been able to make judicious investments and profitable sales. He has also teen instrumental in securing good investments for others and in the line of his business has ever enjoyed a large clientage.

On the 3 ist of August, 1864, Mr. Ryder was united in marriage to Miss Mary E. Spatilding, with whom he has since traveled life's journey. The lady was born in Lake county, Illinois, and is a daughter of Allen and Hannah Spatilding. Her educational advantages and her innate refinement and her many excellent traits of womanhood have won her the love and friendship of all with whom she has come in contact. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Ryder were born four children, of whom Gale died in infancy, while the others are Edith, Clyde H. and Gaylord C. Edith is the wife of Frank W. Caldwell and they reside in Decatur, where Gaylord C. is also living, being engaged in the real estate and loan business. He married Nellie Norton. Mr. and Mrs. Caldwell have two children, Kenneth and Robert. To their children Mr. and Mrs. Ryder gave excellent educational privileges, thus preparing them for life's practical and responsible duties and the members of the family occupy a very prominent position in social circles.

Mr. Ryder exercises his right of franchise in support of the men and measures of the Republican party and, keeping well informed on the questions and issues of the day, has ever been able to support his position by intelligent argument. He. has, however, sought neither the honors nor emoluments of public office, his best service being done as a private citizen. In matters pertaining to the public welfare he is enterprising, alert and active, and his co-operation has teen of value in promoting many interests which have contributed to the general good. Mr. Ryder finds one of his chief sources of pleasure and recreation in travel and has visited many points of interest in this country and also abroad. He has thus gained the knowledge and culture which only travel can bring, and he has stored his mind with many interesting incidents concerning the peoples and places he has visited. His interest in his fellow men is deep and sincere and arises from a humanitarian spirit which has prompted his support and co-operation of many measures and enterprises for the general welfare. His career has ever been such as to warrant the trust and confidence

John Maier

For more than thirty years John Maier has been a prominent representative of the business interests of Monticello, for throughout this period he has been connected with the lumber trade and to-day is extensively engaged in dealing in lumber, shingles and all kinds of building materials. He is a son of the fatherland - a country which through many centuries has been a potent factor in the civilization of the world, sending its representatives into all countries to carry with them the learning, the culture and the artisanship of their own country. The German-American element in our own citizenship is very important, and Monticello is the home of at least one from the fatherland who is loyal to her interests and active in advancing her business affairs.

A native of Wittenberg, Germany, he was born on the 7th of January, 1832, and is a son of Patrick and Catherine (Straub) Maier. The father had charge of timber interests there, and both he and his wife died in Germany. At the usual age of six years John Maier began his education and in accordance with the laws of his native land he there pursued his studies until fourteen years of age. He then began working upon a farm and was employed in that manner until eighteen years of age. At the age of twenty he went into the army, serving for eight years. In 1860 Mr. Maier resolved to try his fortune in

America, for he had heard very favorable reports of the opportunities afforded in this country and thought to better his financial condition on this side of the Atlantic. He therefore bade adieu to home and friends and took passage for the new world, crossing the Atlantic upon a sailing vessel, which was twenty-eight days in reaching the harbor of New York. He made his way to Logansport, Indiana, and as he had no capital it was necessary that he secure immediate employment. This he did, working at chopping wood. After about eighteen days he went to Champaign, Illinois, and became connected with the lumber business, being for eleven years in the lumber yard of W. H. Kratz & Company, at that place.

In April, 1872, Mr. Maier arrived in Monticello, where he has since made his home, and here he remained in the employ of W. H. Kratz until 1883, when he bought out his employer and became proprietor of the lumber yard, which he has since conducted.

During his residence here Mr. Maier has become very widely and favorably known in business circles, and throughout his long connection with commercial pursuits in Monticello he has always sustained an unassailable reputation, his business methods being such as neither seek nor require disguise.

In 1860 Mr. Maier was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Yoerg, a native of Germany and a daughter of Michael and Mary (Vogel) Yoerg, also born in the same country. Mr. and Mrs. Maier have become the parents of fifteen children, of whom fourteen are yet living: Fred; Charles ; William ; John ; Otto ; Lena, the wife of Dr. Graves; Albert; Kate, deigo

Mr. Maier owns forty acres of land in his homestead place, which is well improved, and he also has another tract of one hundred and sixty acres in Monticello township which he rents. His property is the visible evidence of his life of industry and enterprise, his earnest labor and his straightforward methods, and now he is in possession of a comfortable competence for the evening of life. The hope that led him to seek a home in America has been more than realized, and he is to-day one of the prosperous merchants of Piatt county. In his political views Mr. Maier is a Republican, but has never been an officeseeker, preferring to give his undivided attention to his business and the pleasure of the home circle. His force of character is indicated by the fact that after coming to America, while working in the daytime, he attended night schools in order to gain a good knowledge of the English language. The same determination has always characterized him, and has made him a prosperous business man and valued citizen.

Joseph Wilson

For many years Mr. Wilson was one of the active and progressive farmers of Piatt county, as well as one of its most reliable and honored citizens, and now in his declining years he is enjoying a wellearned rest, free from the cares and responsibilities of business life. He makes his home in DeLand and is widely and favorably known throughout the county

Mr. Wilson was born in Maryland, July 1 6, 1833, a son of John and Sarah (Hunt) Wilson, who were also natives of that state, where the father spent his entire life, his occupation being that of farming. He died in 1834, and his wife, who was born in 1802, departed this life in Ohio in 1874. To them were born two children : Joseph, of this review, and his sister, Sophia.

When four years old Joseph Wilson went to Ohio with his mother, his father . having died during his infancy, and at the age of seven he commenced earning his own livelihood. For about two or three months during the winter he was allowed to attend school, conducted in an old log building, but his educational privileges were meager, the remainder of his time being devoted to farm work. At the age of sixteen he hired out to work by the month at eight dollars per month, and was employed in that way until coming to Illinois in 1853. Settling in Tazewell county, he continued in the employ of others until his marriage, and then rented a farm in that county. He afterward operated his father-in-law's place for eight years, and then purchased one hundred and nine acres in the same county, moving his home thereon for three years. On selling his farm he removed to Normal, Illinois, where he spent two years, and the following five years were passed at Atlanta, Logan county, this state, where he purchased a farm of one hundred and sixty acres. In 1876 he came to Piatt county and bought three hundred acres near DeLand, which he operated until January 20, 1901, when he retired from active business and removed to DeLand, renting his farm. With the hope of benefiting his health, which was much impaired, he recently spent four months at Eureka Springs, Arkansas, and on his return purchased the Dresbach property, which he expects soon to occupy. He bought a house and lot here in 1898 and another in 1902, both of which he now rents.

On the 1 6th of October, 1856, Mr. Wilson was united in marriage to Miss Lucinda Judy, a daughter of Jacob and Mary Ann (Musick) Judy. Her mother was born on November 20, 1812, and died in 1884, but her father, who was born in Greene county, Ohio, January 9, 1804, is still living, and, although ninetynine years of age, still enjoys good health, though his eyesight has failed him. In early life he engaged in farming in his native state, but as early as 1823 he came to Illinois and settled in Tazewell county, where he followed the same pursuit. He is now a resident of Logan county, this state. In 1886 he was again married, his second union being with Mary Ann Hawes. The children by his first marriage were Nancy Jane, the widow of Ellis Roberts, of Champaign county, Illinois ; Robert, who died on March 27, 1902; Eliza, the widow of Nimrod Brighton, of Hopedale, Tazewell county, who died at Eureka Springs, Arkansas, about eight years ago; Annie, wife of Allen Haneline, of Armington, Illinois; Mattie M., wife of John Montjoy, of Armington; H. C., a resident of Hopedale, Illinois ; Mary Belle, who died April 28, 1897; Lucinda, wife of our subject ; and Sarah, Hattie and John, who all three died in infancy.

Logan county, Illinois; Sarah Ann, wife of D. P. Swisher, a farmer of Piatt county; Amanda, who died February 29, 1888; May Bell, wife of J. L. Borton, who is engaged in farming near DeLand; Jacob G., a farmer of this county; and Mattie May, who died October 9, 1887. The parents are both earnest and consistent- members of the Christian church, and are held in the highest respect by all who know them. Politically, Mr. Wilson is identified with the Republican party, but he has never cared for the honors or emoluments of public office, preferring to devote his entire time and attention to his business interests. 'He deserves great credit for what he has achieved in life, as he began making his own way in the world at the age of seven years and has since been dependent upon his own rsources. He is a man of good business ability, sound judgment and strict integrity, and to these characteristics is due his success.

A native of Illinois, Dr. Joshua G. Ellis was born in Pope county on the 26th of November, 1858, and is a son of James M. and Kizziah Ann (Clay) Ellis, both of whom were natives of this state. The family comes from the same ancestry to which Henry Clay, a noted American statesman, traced his lineage. James McKee Ellis was born and reared in southern Illinois, his abode being in Pope county, where he engaged in farming until his death, which occurred in January, 1862. His wife, surviving him for a number of years, passed away in 1878.

The Doctor is the only one of this family now living. During his boyhood days he worked upon the home farm and attended the common schools of Pope county, his time being largely passed in this way until he attained his majority. Not desiring, however, to follow the plow as a life work, he turned his attention to professional labors, and entered upon the stud}' of medicine. He matriculated in the American Eclectic Medical College of St. Louis, and was graduated in that institution in June, 1880, at which time he received his certificate to practice. He then opened an office and established his home in Dudenville, Missouri, and in due course of time received a good patronage, demonstrating his" ability to successfully cope with the intricate problems which continually confront the physician in his efforts to restore health and prolong life. He continued to practice in Dudenville for about six years, and in October, 1885, he returned to Illinois, settling in Oakley, Macon county, where he practiced until 1888. That year witnessed his arrival in Cerro Gordo, where he has since remained, and he is now the oldest physician in years of continuous practice in this place. For several years he has been a member of the State Medical Society, and through the interchange of thought and experiences there he adds greatly to his knowledge, while reading and investigation are also continually broadening his mental ken and his comprehension of the powers of the physician in the administration of remedial agencies.

While residing in Dudenville, Missouri, the Doctor was united in marriage to Miss Rose Brown, a daughter of the Rev. Samual Brown, who was a minister of the

United Brethren church, but is now retired, making his home in Cerro Gordo. The Doctor and his wife are parents of two children: Homer, born in 1886; and Mervyl, born in 1889. The Doctor and his wife have a pleasant home in Cerro Gordo, and its good cheer is greatly enjoyed by their many friends. Both hold membership in the Methodist Episcopal church and shape their lives in conformity to its teachings. The Doctor is a Democrat in his political views, and while he has never been an aspirant for office, he has kept well-informed on the questions and issues of the day. Fraternally, he is connected with the Masonic order, belonging to Lodge No. 600, in Cerro Gordo, and he also has membership relations with the Woodmen Camp of this place. Socially and professionally the Doctor is popular and well-liked. He has a large practice, both in the village and the surrounding country, and while his ability in his profession ranks him among its leading representatives, his many excellent personal traits of character have gained him the high regard and warm friendship of those with whom he has been associated.

Edmond W. Lumsden

Edmond W. Lumsden, who for a number of years was actively connected with mercantile interests in Monticello, but has now retired from commercial pursuits, is a representative of the class of citizens in America known as self-made men, and in early manhood he entered upon a business career which has been creditable and successful alike. His interests have been con- ducted with the strictest regard to commercial ethics, and his course has ever been one which would bear close investigation and scrutiny. Thus he has won an honored name as well as prosperity, and in Piatt county he is widely and favorably known.

Mr. Lumsden has spent his entire life in Illinois and doubtless early became imbued with the spirit of enterprise and advancement which have been so potent in the wonderful development of this section of the country. He was born in Morgan county, Illinois, near Jacksonville, on the I4th of June, 1842, and on the paternal side comes of Scotch ancestry, while in the maternal line he is of German and Irish extraction. His father, William G. Lumsden, was a native of Virginia, born in 1807, and in Kentucky he was united in marriage with Miss Lucy Keeling, a native of Virginia, who was born in 1804. Her girlhood days, however, were largely passed in Todd county, Kentucky, and there she gave her hand in marriage to William G. Lumsden. In 1828 they removed to Morgan county, Illinois, settling near Jacksonville in pioneer times - only ten years after the admission of the state into the Union. Mr. Lumsden became the owner of a wild tract of land, upon which not a furrow had been turned or an improvement made, and with characteristic energy he began the development of a farm. He broke and improved his land and added to the property until he has two hundred and twenty acres, highly improved and constituting one of the fine farms of the locality. When he came to Illinois he brought with him one child, born in Kentucky, Susie E., who is now living in Iowa. Later other children were added to the family, as follows : James \\'., who makes his home in Macoupin county, Illinois; Martha N., a resident of Canada; Francis M., who lives in Morgan county, Illinois; John T., a resident of Champaign, Illinois; Mary J., of Jacksonville; Edmond W. ; Nancy F., who resides in Blakepoole, England ; and Annie, who is living in Morgan county, Illinois. The father of these children died in 1892, and the mother passed away in 1894.

Edmond W. Lumsden was reared in the usual manner of farmer boys, having, perhaps, more privileges than some, and less than others. He received ample training at farm labor, and in the district schools near his home he acquired his education, leaving school when in his fifteenth year. He then continued to work upon the home farm, and when in his twenty-second year he was united in jnarriage to Miss Parthenia Ayer, who was born in England, a daughter of Jonas and Annie (Towers) Ayer. Mr. Lumsden took his bride to the old homestead farm, and for five years was engaged in agricultural pursuits there. On the expiration of that period he left his native county and removed to Champaign county, Illinois, where he was engaged in general farming for four years.

In August, 1873, Mr. Lumsden arrived in Monticello, where he has since made his home, and for a number of years was actively connected with business interests here. He first formed a partnership. with R. T. Ayer, under the firm name of Ayer & Lumsden, and for five years they conducted a meat market, meeting with a high degree of success, for they secured a large patronage. Selling out this business Mr. Lumsden then purchased the hardware stock of Dr. Ward, and succeedi94 ed to the business, which he operated successfully for some time. He had a wellappointed store, carrying a large and selected stock of general merchandise, and for eleven years he did a profitable business, which brought to him the competence which now enables him to live retired. He then sold out to McMillen & Company, and since that time has engaged in no active business save the supervision of his farming interests. He is the owner of two farms, both being choice land. One comprises two hundred and forty acres and the other is three hundred and twenty acres in extent, and is situated in Moultrie county. The rental from these properties brings to him a very desirable income, and his landed interests show that his money has been carefully invested.

The home of Mr. and Mrs. Lumsden was blessed with seven children : Walter K., who is living in Monticello; Jonas A., a resident of Moultrie county; James R., who follows farming in this county; Annie E., a student in the Woman's College, of Jacksonville, Illinois; Olive E., graduate of the Monticello high school; Ethel May, who is a student in the high school; and Albert, who completes the family.

Mr. Lumsden votes with the Republican party, believes firmly in its principles, and is often found in its councils. He was - for three years one of the aldermen of the city, and for a similar period was a member of the school board. An intelligent and public-spirited citizen, he gives an active and earnest support to many progressive measures, and since coming to Monticello he has been numbered among her representative men. His has been a busy and useful life, largely devoted to business interests, and through the exercise of diligence and unabating energy he has won a creditable position among the substantial citizens of his adopted county.

Robert H. Benson

No history of Piatt county would be complete without extensive mention of Robert Harvey Benson. There is no man in this section of the state who has done more for agricultural interests. For many years he was one of the most extensive farmers and stock-raisers of this portion of Illinois and by improving the grade of stock and thereby advancing prices he did much for his fellow men who were connected with the same line of activity. Having now reached the advanced age of eighty-two years, he is practically living retired, an honored and respected citizen and venerable gentleman who is revered as one of the patriarchs of the community and as one whose mind bears the impress of the early historic annals of Piatt county. He located here in pioneer times and down to the present he has taken a deep and helpful interest in matters pertaining to public progress.

Mr. Benson, who now lives on section 25, Sangamon township, was born on a farm near Springfield, Ohio, April 3, 1821, his parents being Andrew and Sarah (Renick) Benson. His paternal grandfather, William Benson, was born in Virginia and there spent his entire life. Andrew Benson was born on the south bank of the Potomac river in Virginia, in 1781, and obtained his education in the public schools of his native state. In 1808 he left the Old Dominion for Clark county, Ohio, where he took up his abode and there in 1812 he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Renick, whose birth occurred in Greenbrier county, Virginia, December 20, 1795. Andrew Benson entered a large tract of land from the government, cleared 'and broke it and successfully carried on farming up to the time of his death, which occurred very suddenly in 1826. Returning to his home, he lay down on the lounge and went to sleep. . At nine o'clock his wife requested their son, Robert, to awaken Mr. Benson, which he attempted to do. Failing in this he called his mother and they found that the husband and father had passed away, dying of heart failure. He had never been ill a day in his life nor had he complained of illness on the day of his death.

Mr. Benson of this review resided in one of the pioneer log cabins of Ohio during his youth and attended school for about three months in the winter. The little "temple of learning" was a log structure on one side of which there was a log removed and the aperture covered with greased paper through which the light was admitted to the room. In one end of the room was an oldfashioned fireplace eight by ten feet capable of accommodating an immense back log. This school was situated about four and a half miles from Springfield and its methods of instruction were also somewhat primitive - in keeping with the crude furnishings. Later Mr. Benson attended a select school for a time'. Through broad experience, observation and reading, however, he added largely to his knowledge as the years passed and gained an excellent practical education.

When twelve years of age he began working in a brickyard for four dollars per month, but in this way he injured his back, the work being too heavy for him and he has never fully recovered. During the winter of 1833-34 he engaged in sawing wood for twenty-five cents per cord, and when fifteen years of age he began farming on a tract of land of one hundred acres left by his father. He supported his mother, being the eldest of her children. His life through many years was one of earnest toil. In 1841 he started for Missouri on horseback, but the horse died on the road and he was obliged to go to work in ordei; to make the money with which to pay for the animal which he had borrowed for the purpose of making the trip. Mr. Benson remained in .Missouri until 1844 and while he was in the west his mother died. Returning to Ohio he there hired out to drive cattle for four dollars per month. That fall he bor- Towed one hundred dollars and purchased twenty-five head of cattle. This was the beginning of his stock dealing which in years grew to be most extensive and important. A year later he borrowed four hundred dollars, which he also invested in cattle in Indiana, forming a partnership with another man in this enterprise. Nearly every deal of this character which he made proved profitable and thus he added continually to his income. Wisely he invested his money in real estate and in 1862 he became the owner of six hundred acres of land in Piatt county, Illinois. He continued to reside on the old homestead in Clark county, Ohio, however, until the fall of 1864, when he came to the west.

Piatt county was then largely an unimproved region, being a tract of wild prairie land, much of which still belonged to the government. Mr. Benson took a very ini-- portant part in reclaiming this district for purposes of civilization. He assisted in breaking the prairie, in building roads and - in laying the foundation for the present prosperity of this section of the state. He endured all of the hardships and trials incident to frontier life, but his energy and determination enabled him to overcome all of the obstacles and difficulties that barred his advance toward the goal of success. He worked almost night and day in these early years in an attempt to gain a good start in business and his unremitting diligence was at length rewarded. For many years he was one of the most extensive, successful and prominent stock-dealers and breeders of this section of Illinois. In 1876 he purchased several imported Norman horses and began breeding, his efforts resulting largely in the improvement of the grade of horses raised in Piatt county. In 1882 he went to France, where he purchased nine head of Norman horses which he brought to America. In 1883 he again crossed the Atlantic and returned with twelve head of horses, paying as high prices for some of them as was ever given by an American for French horses. He has also been an extensive dealer in cattle and hogs, which he has raised upon his own farm, having large pastures in which his stock has grazed in the summer months, while during the winter seasons it has been sheltered in his extensive barns. From time to time Mr. Benson added to his landed possessions until he had at one time over two thousand acres in Piatt county, but he has in recent years disposed of much of this, not caring to be burdened by its supervision. To-day he retains only one hundred and sixty acres of his farm and he has also put aside business cares in other directions. In the last year he sold but two car loads of stock. His rest is well merited for his life has been one of untiring industry and should be crowned with a period in which to enjoy the fruits of his former toil.

On the 1 7th of December, 1877, Mr. Benson was united in marriage to Mrs. Mary A. Piatt, who was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, and died May 9, 1880. She was a lifelong member of the Methodist Episcopal church and by her first marriage to Jacob Piatt she became the mother of six children, three of whom are still living.

There are few, if any, residents more, widely known in Piatt county than Robert Harvey Benson. His extensive and valuable farming and stock-dealing interests made him a leading and representative agriculturist of this section of Illinois. In all his business dealings he was honorable and straightforward and his word is as good as any bond. He certainly has just reason to feel proud of the success he has achieved and he well deserves the proud American title of a self-made man. His youth spent upon a farm in Ohio, living in a log cabin, he is to-day one of the most prosperous citizens of Piatt county, Illinois, and at one time was one of the largest landowners here. His capital is now invested, however, in other ways, releasing him from much of the care incident to the control of extensive property interests. Widely known and honored, it is with pleasure that we present this record of his life to our readers.

John Moery

This well known and successful farmer living on section 24, Bement township, was born on the 4th of November, 1853, in the Canton of Berne. Switzerland, and was but six years of age when he came to the United States in company with his parents, Rudolph and Mary (Goodman) Moery, who were also natives of that country. By occupation the father was a farmer and also a school teacher, following both pursuits inSwitzerland. On his arrival in America, he located near New Philadelphia, Ohio, where he was engaged in farming for about three years, and then removed to Crawford county, Indiana, where he was similarly employed for seme years. In connection with general farming he also engaged in .stock-raising to some extent. Politically, he was identified with the Democratic party, and religiously was a member of the German Reform church. He died in Crawford county, Indiana, at the age of seventy-one ye&rs, honored and respected by all who knew him, and his wife passed away about sixteen years previously. They were the parents of seven children, but one died in infancy, and Godfred. Mary and Alice are also now deceased. Those living are Lina, wife of Fred Feller, a resident of Missouri ; Ernest, a farmer of Oklahoma; and John, of this review.

The early education John Moery acquired was largely obtained from his father, and during his younger years he assisted in the operation of the home farm. He remained in Indiana until twenty-six years of age, whence he removed to Sangamon county, Illinois, and two years later came to Piatt county, where he worked in different townships. The first land owned by him was in Moultrie county, where he purchased one hundred and seventy-five acres, to the cultivation and improvement of which he devoted his time and energies for four year?. At the end of that time he bought eighty acres near his present home in Bement township, Piatt county, and subsequently traded his Moultrie county property for his home place of three hundred and twenty acres.

Here he has erected a large and substantial dwelling and other buildings and has made many other improvements which stand as. monuments to his thrift and industry. In the spring of 1902 he bought another eightyacre tract, and to-day has one of the best and most desirable farms of its size in the county. He follows general farming and stock-raising with marked success and today is numbered among the prosperous citizens of the community in which he lives.

In 1879 Mr. Moery married Miss Ellen Loveless, a native of Macoupin county, Illinois,- where her father, Thomas Loveless, still resides, his occupation being that of farming. Six children were born to our subject and his wife, namely : Lina, who is a graduate of the Bement high school and is at home with her parents ; John, who assists his father in the operation of the home farm ; Ralph, also at home ; Ernest and William, who both died in infancy ; and Helvenia, who died in childhood. All of the children were born in Bement township.

Mr. Moery is a member of the Court of Honor and attends and supports the Methodist church. He votes with the Republican party, but has never cared for office, preferring to give his undivided attention to his business interests. He is widely and favorably known throughout the county of his adoption, and is held in high regard by all with whom he comes in contact either in business or social life.

section i, was born at Bethany, Illinois, October 14, 1872, and is a son of William and Mary (Kutch) Zook. His paternal grandmother is still living at the extreme old age of ninety-six years, and is now a resident of Kansas. His father was born in Indiana, on the 3d of October, 1845, and was a lad of ten years when he accompanied his parents on their removal to Illi-- nois, his education being acquired in the schools of Fayette county, this state. During his boyhood and youth he assisted his father in the operation of the home farm, remaining under the parental roof until eighteen years of age, when he entered the Union army, enlisting in 1863 m tne One Hundred and Forty-third Illinois Volunteer Infantry. After serving one year he was honorably discharged on account of blood-poisoning caused by vaccination. He then returned to Moultrie county, Illinois, and rented a farm near Bethany, consisting of one hundred and sixty acres, which he subsequently purchased, and which he still continues to operate. He is a man of influence in his community and is now serving as justice of the peace in Bethany. In early life he wedded Miss Mary Kutch, who was born January 26, 1845, in Moultrie county, where her parents had located in 1830, being pioneers in that portion of the state. They were of German and Irish descent. Nelson W. Zook is the oldest in a family of three children, the others being Thomas M., a resident of Bethany ; and Margaretta, who is at home with her parents.

The subject of this biography was educated in the common schools of Bethany, and at the age of eighteen years started out in life for himself by working at the carpenter's trade, but he has mainly engaged in agricultural pursuits, and since 1900 has operated the Dighton farm on section i, Monticello township, Piatt county. He owns all of the machinery used in the cultivaton of the land, and also the stock upon the place, being quite extensively engaged in the fattening of stock for market.