Piatt County, Illinois - Biographical sketches, 1903 (part 5 of 13)

On the nth of September, 1891, Mr. Zook was united in marriage to Miss Nannie Duke, a' resident of Bloomfiekl, Indiana, and a daughter of Richard and Hannah (McDonald) Duke. On the maternal side her ancestors were related to Daniel Boone. Her father served for four years in the Union army during the Civil war, and died in 1898 of heart trouble at his home in Bldomfield, Indiana. He was largely interested in the raising of pure blooded Percheron horses and Hereford cattle, and was an extensive and prosperous farmer, owning and operating six hundred acres of land which was supplied with the latest and best facilities for doing his work. He also operated coal mines on his own land, and in all his undertakings met with excellent success, so that he was able to leave his family in most comfortable circumstances. His widow and four children now derive a good income from the proceeds of the farm and mine, the estate being still undivided. Mr. Duke was widely and favorably known and was a man of prominence in the locality where he resided.

Mr. and Mrs. Zook have one child, Harold, now nineteen months old. They are prominent members of the Methodist Episcopal church, to which our subject's parents also belong, and have a large circle -of friends and acquaintances in their adopted county. Fraternally, Mr. Zook is connected with Todds Point Camp. No.

550, M. W. A., of Todds Point, and The, mas Strayhorn Camp, No. 227, Sons of Veterans at Bethany, Illinois. In politics he is a stanch Republican, but he does not care for official honors, preferring to devote his entire time and attention to his business interests.

John H. Burns

John H. Burns, deceased, was a leading farmer and respected citizen of Piatt county, and when he passed away he left many friends who will be glad to see this mention of his life work in our history. His birth occurred in Carroll county, Maryland, on the igth of January, 1848, his parents being Danie! and Mary (Knipple) Burns, who were residents of Maryland at the time of his birth, but had formerly made their home in Pennsylvania. John H. Burns was one of a family of five children, being the third in order of birth. His father was a saddler by trade, following that pursuit in the years of his early manhood, while later he engaged in farming.

The son received his education in the common schools of Maryland and became a well-informed man. In 1873 he removed to the west, locating first in Tazewell county, Illinois, where he remained for eight months. He then removed to McLean county, where he rented lard for six years, and on the expiration of that period he took up his abode in Blue Ridge township, Piatt county, where he purchased two hundred and twelve and a half acres of land that is still in possession of his family. Afterward he added to his farm, extending its boundaries until it comprised two hundred and thirty-eight acres, lying within a mile and a half of Mansfield. There Mr. Burns carried on agricultural pursuits up to the time of his death. He thoroughly understood farm work in all of its departments, was progressive in his labors and his place, always neat and thrifty in appearance, indicated his careful supervision.

On the 2 ist of December, 1870, Mr. Burns was united in marriage to Miss Rebecca. A. Petry, of Carroll county, Maryland, a daughter of Jacob and Ann Rebecca (Roop) Petry. The father was born in Pennsylvania and the mother in Maryland and both came of Pennsylvania Dutch ancestry. Mrs. Burns was one of a family of eight children and was the third in order of birth. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Burns were born seven children : Anna May, now the wife of David P. Smith, a resident of Manson, Calhoun county, Iowa, by whom she has two children, Harold Burns and Everett ; William, who is now the efficient and popular cashier of the State Bank of Mansfield and who married Miss Allie Speer, by whom he has one child, Wayne Emerson; Corda Irene, Amy R., Ida Blanche, Catherine R. and Charles L., all of whom are still at home.

In his political views Mr. Burns was a stalwart Republican and while living in McLean county he served as county commissioner. He also held many other offices of trust and responsibility and Was always loyal in these, progress and fidelity characterizing his entire .official service. He belonged to the German Baptist church in Blue Ridge township and died in that faith April 25, 1887, his remains being then interred in the cemetery adjoining the Brethren church. The strong characteristics of Mr. Burns were such as commended him to the confidence and regard of his fellow men and many delighted in his friendship and in his companionship.

After her husband's death Mrs. Burns left with a large family commenced to carry on the home farm. There was quite a large sum owing upon it at that time, which she has succeeded by her capable business management and executive force to discharge and is now renting the place, having removed to Mansfield in 1892. She has since made her home in the city and is a well-known and most highly esteemed lady there. She belongs to the German Baptist church and takes an active and helpful interest in its work.

Eli Drum

The value of the local newspapers in the upbuilding of the best interests of any community is universally conceded. The rule is that good papers are found in good towns, inferior journals in towns of stunted growth and uncertain future. It is not so much a matter of size as of excellence and of adaptability to the needs of its locality. These conditions given, in an appreciative and progressive community, the size of the paper will take care of itself in a way mutually satisfactory to publishers and patrons. Mr. Drum as editor and proprietor of the Star of Cerro Gordo, is a worthy representative of the journalistic interests of Piatt county.

A native of Ohio, he was born in Pickaway county on the 2ist of April, 1843, his parents being Benjamin and Lydia Drum. The father was a farmer by occupation and died about 1848, while his wife passed away in 1893, having long survived her husband. In the country schools of Ohio and of Illinois the subject of this review pursued his education. It was in October, 1856, that he removed from the place of his birth to Piatt county, Illinois, where he has since lived. He remained upon the home farm until nineteen years of age, when he enlisted in the Union army in response to the need for soldiers to aid in the preservation of the Union. On the nth of August, 1862, he becarfie a private of Company K, One Hundred and Seventh Illinois Infantry and was discharged in July, 1865, after^ about three years of faithful and valorous service. He served in eastern Tennessee, took part in the Atlanta campaign and then returned to Nashville, where he aided in the movements which resulted in the victories for General Thomas and his army.

After the close of the war Mr. Drum returned to the north and was engaged in the drug business for twelve years, being a well known merchant of Cerro Gordo. In 1881 he began his present work, and three years ago started the Cerro Gordo Star, and has made of this paper an interesting journal which has a large and growing patronage and which has returned to the proprietor a good income. He has made it an excellent advertising medium and at the same time it treats in a fair and interesting manner of the leading questions and issues of the day and disseminates local news.

On the 3d of February, 1868, at Cerro Gordo, Mr. Drum was united in marriage to Miss May E. Stuart. Their children are S. M., who married Adeline Van Ordstrand ; Flora Lillian, who was the wife of H. L. Lesley and died sixteen months after her marriage; Arthur J., who wedded Miss Er- ma Ater; Benjamin E. ; W. Webb; Harry; and Mary. Mr. Drum is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic and of the Presbyterian church and gives his political support to the Republican party, furthering its interests through the columns of his paper and also in the same channel advancing the welfare and improvement of the community along many lines.

Frank Hetishee

Frank Hetishee is assistant cashier of the Dighton-Dilatush Loan Company of Monticello and is thus actively connected with financial interests. The business with which he is so closely associated has become one of importance in Piatt county, and like the other members of the company Mr. Hetishee is recognized as a man of reliability, of enterprise and of honor. He is a son of John and' Elizabeth (Ruff) Hetishee. His father was born in Berne, Switzerland, on the i6th of March, 1826, acquired his education in the schools of his native country and afterward learned the tailor's trade there. In 1848, when twenty-two years of age, he boarded a sailing vessel bound for the port of New York for he had heard much of the privileges and opportunities offered in a business way in the new 'world and had resolved to try his fortune in America. Therefore, he came to the new world, arriving after fifty-one days spent upon the bosom of the broad Atlantic, the vessel dropping anchor in the harbor of America's metropolis. Mr. Hetishee did not remain in New York, however, but proceeded at once to' Ohio, stopping first at

Dayton. In 1851 he began farming near that city and there carried on agricultural pursuits for two years. At the" end of that time in 1853 he came to Monticello and soon afterward made choice of a location in Sangamon township, Piatt county, where he devoted his energies to general farming and stock-raising. For a number of years he was an active representative of that line of business and in 1870 he removed to Ivesdale, Piatt county, where he purchased a farm, continuing its further development and cultivation until 1891, when he took up his abode in the capital city. While upon the farm he prospered in his undertakings, becoming the owner of five hundred and fifty acres of valuable land, which he placed under a high state of cultivation. The improvements which he made and the rise in land values, owing to the increase in population in this section of the state, made his property a very desirable one and at the time of his death he was considered one of the wealthy men of his adopted county. Upon his farm he erected substantial buildings and also placed modern equipments which would facilitate agricultural work and he was likewise successful in the raising of hogs and cattle and to this branch of his business in large measure can be attributed his prosperity. His business affairs were always conducted with energy, diligence and strong purpose and at the same time his methods were honorable and would bear the closest investigation. Both he and his wife held membership in the Lutheran church and lived lives in consistent harmony with their religious faith and professions. Mr. Hetishee passed away in 1898 and his wife, surviving him for a few years, died in 1902. They were the parents of the following named : William, who is a fafmer in Piatt county; Henry, who also carries an agricultural pursuits here; Carrie, the wife of Jacob Geoggle, who resides upon a farm in this county; and Frank, of this review.

It is a noticeable fact that the great percentage of men who are successful and prominent in commercial, industrial and professional circles are they who have spent their youth upon farms. Of this class Frank Hetishee is a representative, his boyhood days being passed under the parental roof at the old family homestead, where in his early youth he was a student in the district schools. He showed mucji aptitude at his lessons, mastering the various branches of learning taught in the public schools and largely supplementing his knowledge by reading, experience and observation. On leaving the farm he accepted the position of assistant bookkeeper in the National Bank of Monticello, acting in that capacity for three years, after which he become connected with the Dighton-Dilatush Loan Company of this city. He was one of its organizers, the company being formed in October, 1900, with a capital stock of thirty thousand dollars, all paid up. In the organization of the company Mr. Hetishee was made assistant cashier which position he still holds and in large measure to his efforts may the success of the institution be attributable.

On the I2th of June, 1902, Mr. Hetishee was united in marriage to Miss Elsie B. Gleiser, of Monticello, Illinois, a daughter of the Rev. Henry G. Gleiser, who is pastor of the First Presbyterian church. Her mother bore the maiden name of Elsie F. Kratzer. Both Mr. and

Mrs. Hetishee hold membership in the First Presbyterian church of Monticello and are interested in its work and to its support contribute generously. Their pleasant home was erected in 1902 and is the center of a cultured society circle. It is modern in all of its improvements and equipments and is tastefully furnished. It is also the abode of hospitality and is a fav6rite resort with the many friends of Mr. and Mrs. Hetishee. In business affairs our subject stands prominent, possessing excellent qualifications, strong determination and laudable ambition. He is a genial and affable gentleman and thereby wins the good will and friendship as well as the respect and confidence of those with whom he is brought in contact.

James C. Evans

In the death of James C. Evans on the 5th of March, 1903, Bement and Piatt county lost one of their most prominent and highly esteemed citizens. His career was a long, busy and useful one, and although he was earnest and active in business, he never allowed the pursuit of wealth to warp his kindly nature, being to the end of his life a kindly, genial friend, one whom it was a pleasure to know and meet under any circumstances. He attained the advanced age of seventy-eight years, retaining to the last those qualities of the mind and heart whicii had endeared him to every one throughout his life.

No history of Piatt county would be complete without mention of James C. Evans and it is a pleasure to the historian to present his life record to our readers. His- life span covered almost four score years and lijs career was so honorable that he won the highest regard of all with whom he was associated. A native of Clark county, Kentucky, he was born in the year 1825, and on both the paternal and maternal sides was a member of early Kentucky families. His father was a second cousin of Danfel Boone, the noted pioneer explorer and hunter who led the way into the wilds of the Blue Grass state. Mr. Evans was one of a family of five sons and one daughter, all now deceased.

When about ten years of age our subject accompanied his parents on their removal to Illinois, the family home being established in Scott county. There he resided until 1846, at which time his father entered the Mexican war as a lieutenant under Colonel John J. Hardin. Filled with the spirit of patriotism James C. Evans, who about that time attained his majority, also offered his services to the government and became a private in his father's company. (He went to the south where he valiantly aided in the protection of his country's rights and after the cessation of hostilities he returned to Scott county, where he .worked at the cooper's trade, which he had^ learned previous to his enlistment. To this industry he gave his attention until after the discovery of gold in California. Men from all sections of the country flocked to the Pacific coast in the hope of rapidly acquiring a fortune and Mr. Evans was among the number who made the long overland trip across the hot stretches of sand and through the mountain passes to the Golden state. In the trip he accompanied his father and brother and they spent two years at Hangtown Gulch, which was one of the early mining settlements of California and is now the city of Placerville. Although he did not acquire a fortune as he hoped, he yet found some gold and brought back with him the precious metal which was made into the wedding ring that signified through more than half a century his union with Miss Mary Elizabeth Hopkins. Upon his return to Scott county he embarked in merchandising with B. G. Hopkins in the town of Winchester and a year later he was united in marriage to his partner's daughter.

Mr. Evans' connection with mercantile interests in Scott county continued until 1856, when he removed to Piatt county and located on a farm of one hundred and sixty acres in Willow Branch township. This property continued in his possession up to the time of his death, although after a few years he left its cultivation to others, while he turned his attention to commercial pursuits. About 1863 ne entered into partnership with D. Vaughan in the lumber business, but continued to reside upon his farm until 1870, when he took up his abode in the town. Through long years the partnership with Mr. Vaughan continued with mutual pleasure and profit, the firm enjoying a large and continually increasing patronage. A few years prior to his death, however, Mr. Evans purchased Mr. Vaughan's interest and the firm of Evans & Son was then formed and continued up to the time of the father's death.

The home life of Mr. Evans was ideal. They traveled life's journey together for more than fifty years, sharing with each other in all the joys and sorrows, the adversities and prosperity which came to them, their mutual love and confidence increasing as the years went by. Mrs. Evans came of early New England ancestry of English lineage, the line being traced back to the early set- tiers of Connecticut, who located there in 1642. She is of the fifth generation in direct descent from General John Sedgwick, of Cornwall, Connecticut, and of the fourth from Benjamin Hopkins and Stephen Gold of her father's ancestors and of the fourth generations from Elijah Stanton and Joseph Hollister, who came to America in 1642, all of the above men being prominent in the country's early history. She is also of the eighth generation from Captain John Stanton, who came to America in 1646 as colonial interpreter for the six nations of Pequod Indians.

By the marriage of James C. and Mary Elizabeth (Hopkins) Evans thirteen children were born, of whom eight are still living. William G., who resides in the village of Bement, married Miss Viola Workman, and they have two children, Harold and Clarence. Charles E., who is a minister of the Christian church and resides at Weiser, Idaho, wedded Miss Jennie Miller, of Ohio.- They had four children : Lester, who died when about nineteen years of age; Mayo, a musician, residing in Oregon; Miller and Oliver S. Dora, the third member of the Evans family, is the wife of S. S. Jones, a minister of the Christian church, now located in Danville, Illinois. Ellen G. is the wife of George D. McKay, of St. Joseph, Missouri, and they have two children. James O., who resides in Bement, Illinois, was born two miles west of the village on the home farm, April 23, 1870, and after pursuing the high school course in Bement continued his studies in Eureka College at Eurekn, Woodford county, Illinois. He was graduated on the completion of the business course and then returned to Bement, where he joined his father in the lumber business, the partnership continuing until the latter's death, since which time the son has been alone in the conduct of this enterprise. He is well known in the commercial circles of the city, and is a leading and representative business man of this place. For three years he has been one of the trustees of the village and is now a stalwart Republican in his political views. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Christian church, and he is a member of the Masonic and Knight of Pythias fraternities at Bement, and has passed all of the chairs in the latter organization. Albert A., born 'December 18, 1872, the sixth member of the father's family, is likewise a resident of Bement. He married Miss Grace L. Landis, a native of Owen county. Indiana, and they have one son, Albert Canada. Albert A. Evans is now associated with his brother, James, in the lumber business. Darley, born September 15, 1875, in Bement, is a clerk in the village of Mansfield, Piatt county. He married Miss Carrie Burns, a daughter of John Burns, of Bement, and they have one son, Eugene. Grace G. is the wife of H. A. De Vaux, of Mankato, Minnesota, where he is manager of the World's Stock Food Company. The other children of the father's family died in infancy with the exception of Dollie. who died in Bement, when twentyone years of age. Mr. Evans was most devoted to his family and considered no personal sacrifice on his part too great if it would enhance the welfare and promote the happiness of his wife and children. On Sunday, the 23d of March, 1902, Mr. and Mrs. Evans celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniversary, holding an "open house" reception between the hours of two and five in the afternoon. This worthy couple had traveled life's journey together for a half century and more than one hundred guests called to express their pleasure over this fact and wish for them happy returns of the day, but ere a year had passed Mr. Evans was called from this life. There was nothing, however, to indicate that his life's journey was so rapidly nearing its close, and the occasion of the golden wedding anniversary was a most happy one. The guests were received in the parlor and later passed through the sitting room into the dining room, which was handsomely decorated with cut flowers and yellow ribbon, its beautiful golden tint being in harmony with the occasion. Refreshments were served and each guest was given a favor - heart-shaped cards tied with yellow ribbon and bearing a design in gold with the number "50" in white in the center. Mr. and Mrs. Evans were long faithful and devoted members of the Christian church, with which the lady is still identified. He united with the church of this denomination at Winchester, Illinois, about 1845, under the preaching of Alexander Campbell, in Betnent during the meeting held by Rev. A. B. Rice, who obeyed the gospel at the same time that Mr. Evans became one of the followers of that church. For long years Mr. Evans was very active in church work, and even in advanced years his interest therein never abated in the slightest degree. He always contributed liberally of his means to its support, and his time and energies were freely given for its welfare and progress. Frequently he would perform the baptismal ceremony for the pastor in charge and his character was manifest in his daily life. He lived peaceably with all men, possessed a kindly, charitable spirit and was anxious for the moral welfare of the community. He was also very benevolent, and the poor and needy found in him a friend. During all the long years in which he was able to personally superintend his business it is safe to say that he never left his office on Saturday evening without having given at least five dollars in charity during the week. He passed away March 5, 1903, and thus closed a most honorable and useful career. The county lost one of its pioneers, the community a valued citizen and those with whom he was associated a faithful friend, while his wife and children mourned the loss of a devoted, loving and tender husband and father. His memory, however, is still enshrined in the hearts of all who knew him, and remains as a blessed benediction to those with whom he was associated in the daily walks of life.

John R. Ponder

The history of such a man as John R. Ponder is always of interest to the public, especially when it comes as a direct result of meritorious effect. Mr. Ponder has justly earned the title of a self-made man and his life history stands as an exemplification of what can be accomplished when one has the will to dare and to do. He has controlled extensive farming interests in Piatt count}' and is now a director of the Bank of Hammond, and also the president of the village board. He likewise represents one of the pioneer families of Piatt county, having lived here since 1864.

Mr. Ponder was born in Washington county, Tennessee, on the i8th of December, 1855, and is a son of Joseph and Matilda (Radford) Ponder, both of whom are natives of Buncom county, North Carolina, the former born on the 23d of May, 1816, and the latter on the 8th of March, 1820.

Joseph Ponder made his home in North Carolina until after his marriage and then removed with his wife to Washington county, Tennessee, where he was engaged in farming for several years. He afterward took up his abode in Clay county, Kentucky, where he followed the same pursuit until the I /th of March, 1864, when he bade v adieu to home and friends in that locality and came to Illinois. He had a cousin living in Piatt county, and thereby was induced to settle in this section of the state, establishing his home in Unity township northeast of the village of Pierson. Resuming agricultural pursuits, he carried On farming for two years, and then went to Douglas county, Illinois, where he engaged in the tilling of the soil for a year. At the end of that time, however, he returned to Unity township and purchased a farm here, devoting his energies to its further development and improvement until 1880. He then went to the home of his son, John R., where he lived for two years, and on the ist of March, 1882. he removed to the village of Hammond, where he lived retired until his death, which occurred on the 8th of December, 1892. His widow survived him for about ten years and passed away on the 27th of January, 1902. Both were respected and honored people, and they reared ' a family of six children who are now living and are residents of Piatt county.

Like the other members of the family John R. Ponder obtained his education in the common schools and through his youth he spent the summer months in working in the fields on the home farm. He continued to assist his father until the time of his marriage, which was celebrated in 1883, Miss Elizabeth E. BoLin becoming his wife. She is a native of Moultrie county, Illinois, and a daughter of J. R. Bolin, who is now a retired farmer, making his home in Hammond. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Ponder have been born three children : Ray B. ; Wilbur H. and Wilma E., twins.

Mr. and Mrs. Ponder began their domestic life upon a farm in Unity township, where he carried on general agricultural pursuits until 1890. He then removed to the village of Hammond, where he built his fine residence. It is situated in the southeastern part of the town and is a most attractive and commodious home, celebrated for its gracious hospitality. The house stands in the midst of beautiful grounds and everything about the place indicates the cultured taste of the owner. In addition to this property Mr. Ponder owns seven hundred and forty acres of fine farming land, all under a high state of cultivation, and therefore returning to him a good tribute for the labor bestowed upon it. Of this twenty acres is located in Lovington township, Moultrie county, but the remainder is situated in Unity township, Piatt county. Mr. Ponder gives his personal supervision to the operation of five hundred and sixty acres of the land, while the remainder he rents, and annually golden harvests are gathered in return for the labors bestowed upon the fields. He is also a stockholder and director in the State Bank of Hammond, and thus his activity has touched upon many lines, whereby he has won prosperity.

In matters pertaining to the general good Mr. Ponder is ever progressive and public spirited, and has given his co-operation to many measures for the welfare of town and county. In politics he is a Democrat, and in 1901 was elected mayor of Hammond, in which capacity he is still serving, having been re-elected for a second term.

For eleven years he has heen a member of the village board and since 1901 has been its president. He also served on the school board for several years and for one year was tax collector of Unity township. He belongs to the Baptist church, and his wife to the Church of Christ, and he is one of the most prominent, influential and prosperous residents of this part of Piatt county. Over the record of his public career and private life there falls no shadow of wrong or suspicion of evil, for his wealth has been obtained through honorable methods and he has ever been found faithful in friendship and in citizenship. Hammond owes much to his active efforts in her behalf, and no history of this part of Piatt county would be complete without mention of John R. Ponder.

Gideon Chenoweth

Among the honored veterans of the Civil war now living retired in De Land is numbered Gideon Chenoweth, who was born in Darke county, Ohio, March 16, 1840, his parents being Jacob and Sarah (Foster) Chenoweth, natives of Virginia and Ohio, respectively. On the paternal side he is of Welsh descent, while his maternal ancestors came originally from Scotland. His father was horn in the Old Dominion in 1798 and was educated in the subscription schools of that state, the temple of learning being a rude log structure with greased paper windows, puncheon floor and huge fire-place. He was married in 1818 and settled in Darke county, Ohio, where he entered three hundred and twenty acres of timber land, which he developed into a fine farm. He gave considerable attention to the raising of cattle, sheep and hogs and was considered one of the best and most successful farmers and stock-raisers of his locality. After his death, which occurred in 1853, the family remained upon the farm but a year, when the widowed mother sold the place and with her children removed to De Witt county, Illinois, where she made her home throughout the remainder of her life. She died very suddenly in 1867 while visiting friends and relatives in Iowa and was' buried in the town of Bedford, that state. Her early life was passed amid primitive surroundings and our subject well remembers hearing her relate of turning the grindstone for Indians while they sharpened their scalping knives.

Gideon Chenoweth is one of a family of twelve children, the others being Abraham, who died in Kansas in 1891 ; Rebecca, who died in Clinton, Illinois, in 1899; Joseph, who died in Versailles, Illinois, in 1877; John, who died in Nebraska in 1890; Thomas, who died in 1856 or 1857; Mary Ann, who married Jacob Rarrick and is now living in Portland, Oregon, at the age of seventy-five years ; William, deceased ; Martha, who is the wife of Jacob Harless and is living in Weldon, Iowa, at the age of seventy-one; Noah, who is living in Kansas, at the age of sixty-nine; Eliza, who died in 1874; and Cassandra, who died in infancy.

During his boyhood Gideon Chenoweth attended school in Ohio for about three months during the winter season, the remainder of the time being devoted to the work of the home farm. In 1854 he accompanied his widowed mother on her removal to Clinton, De Witt county, where he continued his education until six- teen years of age. In 1857 he led to the marriage altar Miss Mary A. Bryant, a daughter of Cornelius and Agnes ( Sims) Bryant, who were of Irish descent. By this union were born five children, as follows : George H., the eldest, died at Argenta, Illinois, November 5, 1892. Francis H., the next of the family, was born in Clinton, Illinois, June 22, 1866, and is a druggist of Charleston, this state. Edward B., born January 4, 1869, is mentioned more fully below. Eliza A., - born August 22, 1872, died May 4, 1874. William C, born June 28, 1878, is a druggist of Charleston, Illinois.

After his marriage Mr. Chenoweth engaged in operating a rented farm until he entered the army during the Rebellion. In 1861 he joined the boys in blue of Company E, Twentieth Illinois Volunteer Infantry and remained at the front until honorably .discharged at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri, April 16, 1863. He participated in the battles of Frederickstown, Fort Henry, Fort Donelson, Shiloh and Corinth, and was accidently wounded at Jackson, Tennessee, being confined in the hospital from the i6th of September 1862, until he left the service.

On his return home Mr. Chenoweth accepted a clerkship in a general store in Clinton, Illinois, where he was employed until 1867, when he came to Piatt county and for four years rented and operated the farm belonging to his sister, Mrs. Eliza Lowery.* At the end of that time he removed to Monticello, where he conducted a meat market for two years, and then assisted in building a branch of the Illinois Central Railroad from White Heath to Clinton, this state. In 1876 he became connected with the firm of Piatt. Hubbell & Company, who were in the elevator business at Monticello, acting as their buyer at Cisco, Illinois, and when the business was sold to E. A. Townley, he remained with that gentleman in the same capacity until 1883. During the following two years he was with W. H. Telford, who was in the same line of business, and on the expiration of that time he went to Ness county, Kansas, where he pre-empted three claims, both homestead and timber claims. He had nothing on his removal to that state but on his return to Illinois after five years he was the owner of four hundred and eighty acres of fine farming land in Kansas and one hundred head of cattle besides other personal property, so successful had he been. After his return to Monticello he was in the employ of E. C. Knight in the grain business until November, 1900, when he accepted a position as carrier in the rural mail service and faithfully served as such for two years and two months, during which time he lost but seven days. He made a trip of twenty-seven miles and a half each day and therefore traveled nearly nineteen thousand miles during the twenty-six months' time.

Mr. Chenoweth has been called upon to mourn the loss of his estimable wife, who died in Monticello of heart failure on her way home from church December 3, 1899, when sixty years of age. She was a lifelong member of the Methodist Episcopal church and was an active and faithful worker in the' same. On the 7th of January, 1903, Mr. Chenoweth removed to De Land, where he is now living a retired life, honored and respected by all who know him. He is still a member of the Grand Army Post at Monticello and enjoys meeting with the gray-haired

Edward B. Chenoweth

Edward B. Chenoweth, a son of Gideon Chenoweth, was born in Piatt county, January 4, 1869, and has here spent almost his entire life. Since attaining man's estate his attention has mainly been devoted to mercantile interests. For two years he engaged in clerking in a store in Argenta and for about eight years was similarly employed in De Land, although during six months of that time he served as assistant cashier in a bank at this place. In November, 1902, he embarked in business on his own account, opening a new store in De Land with a well selected stock of general merchandise. He carries an excellent grade of goods and spares no pains to please his customers.

In_ 1891 was celebrated the marriage of Edward B. Chenoweth and Olive S. Mitchell, of Weldon, Iowa, a daughter of Rev. George E. and Rosetta (Westfall) Mitchell, and three children bless this union: Lela, now eleven years of age; Lola, nine years ; and Beulah, a year and six months. Socially Mr. Chenoweth is a member of the Odd Fellows Lodge, No. 740, of De Land, of which he is treasurer ; Twentieth Century Lodge, No. 603, K. P. ; and the Modern Woodmen Camp, No. 2178, of which he is clerk. He was also a delegate to the head camp of Modern Woodmen in 1903. Politically he is identified with the Republican party and has held the office of township clerk two years and village clerk the same length of time. He is regarded as one of the leading young men of the town, active, enterprising and progressive, and although he has been in business for himself only a short time he has already built up a good trade and his patronage is steadily increasing.

Mrs. Helen C. Tippett

Mrs. Helen C. Tippett, a well-known resident of White Heath and a worthy representative of an honored pioneer family of this county, was born on the nth of January, 1842, in Ross county, Ohio, and is a daughter of David and Anna (Porter) Heath. Her father was a native of New Jersey, and when a young man removed to Ohio, where he married Miss Porter, who was born near Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, February 27, 1799, and was a daughter of William and Elizabeth (Clinton) Porter. On the maternal side she was of Scotch- Irish descent. Mrs. Tippett's paternal grandmother bore the maiden name of Wood and was of English descent. After farming in Ohio for about eighteen years, David Heath came to Piatt county, Illinois, and purchased eighty acres of land near White Heath. He then returned to Ohio to settle up some business, making the journey on horseback, as there were no railroads at that time, and while there caught a severe cold which developed into pneumonia, from which he died within a year from the time he come to Piatt county, and it was two weeks before his relatives in this county learned of his death. His widow then took charge of affairs, and with the assistance of her two sons, Jarnes and Noble, she transformed the wild tract into a good farm. She was one of the bravest and best of women, bearing uncomplainingly the hardships and trials of frontier life. Many times she was left alone for two or three days while her sons went to the city for supplies. Their home was at the edge of the timber and the nearest neighbor was at least one mile away. Wolves and rattlesnakes were numerous and many dangers and difficulties were encountered by those early settlers.

In the Heath family were six children, namely : Mary J., born January 3, 1825, became the wife of B. F. Harris, a banker of Champaign, Illinois, and died March 23, 1883 ; James Clinton, born August 20, 1828, died December 22, 1872 ; Noble Porter, born February 8, 1833, .died June 8, 1893 ; Anna E., born June 6, 1838, died in 1851; one died in infancy; and Mrs. Tippett is now the only survivor. The mother passed away June 10, 1877, loved and respected by all who knew her.

Mrs. Tippett was only three years old when she accompanied her parents on their removal to this state and amid pioneer scenes she grew to womanhood. She was educated in an old log school house, known as the Hughes school, and after her graduation commenced teaching at the age of eighteen years, following that profession from 1860 to 1870. On the gth of March, 1871, she gave her hand in marriage to Cumberland Tippett. who then took charge of the old Heath homestead and operated the farm until his death, which occurred October 2, 1875. He was a member of Monticello Lodge, F. & A. M., and was a local preacher of the Methodist Episcopal church, of which he was a lifelong meml^er, always taking an active part in church work and doing all in his power for the uplifting of his fellow men. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Tippett were born two children: Florence B., born December 18, 1871, is now the wife of Dr. B. E. Duvall. of Atlanta, Georgia. She is also a physician, l)eing a graduate of the Eclectic Medical College of Atlanta, and having also taken a post-graduate course at the Cincinnati Eclectic Medical College. James Clinton, born January 3, 1873. was married October 4, 1896, to Mattie I. Jamison, and is now circuit clerk and county auditor, living in Monticello, Illinois. His sketch appears on another page of this volume.

After the death of her husband Mrs. Tippett and her mother took charge of the farm, hiring a man to run it, and when her mnther died she went to Champaign, where she lived for four years, her brother having charge of the place during that time. The following eighteen years were spent upon the farm with her children, her brother still continuing to conduct the property. In 1901 Mrs. Tippett purchased her present comfortable residence in White Heath, where she has since resided. Her brother continued to manage the farm until 1894, when her son, J. C, was old enough to take charge of the same. He lived there until he was elected circuit clerk and still rents the place. Mrs. Tippett is a woman of many excellent traits of character, who is highly respected and esteemed by all who know her.

Hon. Seymour Marquiss

those who have reposed in them public trust is numbered Seymour Marquiss. He has represented his district in the legislature and has been active and influential in business circles, where his course has ever been such as to commend him to the confidence and good will of those with whom he has come in contact. He is now living a retired life in Monticello, having acquired a competence which has enabled him to put aside business cares and enjoy the fruits of former toil.

Mr. Marquiss is one of Piatt county's native sons, his birth having occurred in Goose Creek township on the 7th of June, 1837. He is a son of Ezra and Ann Maria (Norris) Marquiss, the former a native of Ohio and the latter of Maryland. Their marriage was celebrated in Illinois, the father having come to this state in 1833 with the paternal grandfather of our subject, Abraham Marquiss, who was a native of Virginia. He settled in Piatt county in 1833 at a very early period in the development of this portion of the state, and there he took up government land. He made the journey from Ohio by wagon and cast in his lot with the early settlers who lived amid frontier environments. Not a furrow had been turned or an improvement made upon his place, but he at once began the development of a farm and soon rich fields returned to him good harvests. Ezra Marquiss was one of a family of seven children and his education was obtained during his residence in Ohio. After coming with his father to Illinois he began farming in Goose Creek township, Piatt county, near the old Abraham Marquiss homestead, entering forty acres of land from the government. As the years passed he prospered and his business methods were such as to win for him puViiic confidence as well as to gain for him gratifying success. As his financial resources increased he made judicious investments in real estate until he became the owner of two thousand acres of land. His death occurred on the 3d of January, 1898, when he had reached the advanced age of eightyfour years, and his wife passed away on the icth of August, 1881. This worthy couple were the parents of eight children, of whom four are yet living-, namely: Seymour; Paulina, the wife of Frank McMillan, of Monticello; Ezra, who is a resident of Monticello; and Mary E., the wife of John Kirby, who is also living in the county seat.

Under the parental roof Seymour Marquiss was reared and attended the old Piatt school in Goose Creek township. He spent his winter months in mastering the studies therein taught, and during the summer seasons he worked upon the home farm, early becoming familiar with the labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. The sun shone down on many a field which he plowed and planted in his youth, and when autumn came he assisted in harvesting the crops. He remained at home until twenty-four years of age and then made preparations for having a home of his own by his marriage to Miss Caroline McMillen, the wedding taking place on the igth of December, 1 86 1. The lady is a daughter of Thomas McMillen, who came to Illinois in 1856 and located in Goose Creek township, Piatt county. He was born in Washington county, Pennsylvania, in 1806, and in 1812 was taken by his parents to Highland county, Ohio, where he lived until 1828. He then went to Indiana, where he was married to Miss Mary Hathaway, who was born in Fort Harrison during the war of 1812. In 1856 he again became a pioneer settler. He had previously lived amid frontier surroundings in Ohio and in Indiana, and now he cast in his lot with the early settlers of Piatt county, Illinois. Later he removed to Champaign county, where he died in 1869, when sixty-three years of age. Mrs. Marquiss was one of a family of ten children, being the third in order of birth.

At the time of his marriage Seymour Marquiss began farming and buying stock. He took up his abode in Goose Creek township near DeLand, and for many years was a most prominent representative of agricultural interests. He continued to reside upon his farm until 1887, when he established his home in the village of DeLand, but is now living retired in Monticello, although he has given his personal supervision to the management of his farming interests. While living on the farm he was very extensively engaged in feeding stock, using in this way all of the grain which he raised and also purchasing large amounts of feed for his cattle. He owns two hundred and forty-eight acres of rich and arable land lying in sections 8, 9, 16 and 17, Goose Creek township, eight acres of which is in the village of DeLand.

Mr. and Mrs. Marquiss have never had any children of their own, but the kindness of their hearts has prompted them to give homes to six different children, namely : Sophia Norris, who is now the wife of R. M. Cathcart and resides upon Mr. Marquiss' farm; Lillie Ives, the wife of Don P. Chandler, a resident of Nebraska; Minnie Hubbard, who died in San Diego, California; Delta M. Parsons, now the wife of Doctor Keel, of Monticello: Jessie Parsons, who is teaching school southeast of White Heath, and Florence Tripp, who is nine years of age, and is yet with Mr. and Mrs. Marquiss.

Mr. Marquiss exercises his right of franchise in support of the men and measures of the Republican party. He served as assessor in his township, was also township clerk, highway commissioner and school director. He was found so loyal and faithful in all of his local offices that his fellow townsmen conferred upon him higher political honors, electing him to the fortieth general assembly as the representative of what was then the Thirtieth senatorial district. There he served on several committees, including those on license, agriculture, roads and bridges, public buildings, public grounds and state institutions. He was an active working member of the house and did everything in his power to promote what he believed would prove the best interests of the state. He has been president of the DeLand village board for three terms and has taken an active part in the growth and development of this place. Prompt and faithful in the discharge of his duties his official service is a criterion of his entire career, for in all life's relations the qualities of an honorable and upright manhood have been manifested. He enjoys the confidence and respect of young and old, rich and poor, and well deserves representation in the history of his native county.

William S. Higgins

William S. Higgins is one of the native sons of Piatt county and, although a young man, is classed among the representative farmers successfully conducting agricultural pursuits upon his home place on section 10, Monticello township. - He was born on the 2d of December, 1872, in Milmine, a son of George and Henrietta Higgins. He be- gun his education in the Shadynook school and later successfully attended the Howell and Baker schools, continuing his studies until fifteen years of age, after which he devoted his entire time to assisting his father in the work of the home farm. He never worked for any one save his father until he began farming on his own account. This occurred in the year 1895.

On the i8th of March, of that year, William S. Higgins was united in marriage to Miss Josephine Lewis, a daughter of Stephen and Omilia (Oliver) Lewis, of Indiana. The young couple began their domes- . tic life upon the Hale farm, which Mr. Higgins rented for five years. He then removed to the C. E. Pierson farm which he rented for three years, and at the end of that time he took up his abode upon a farm which is now his home. He cultivates one hundred and sixty acres of land and he is making a specialty of the production of corn and oats. He also feeds a large number of hogs annually for the market, and he has eighteen head of cattle, principally of the Galloway and shorthorn breeds. He also has eight head of horses and several mules which he utilizes in the cultivation of his farm. He now owns a Galloway bull, for which he has refused sixty dollars, and he has a shorthorn cow called Roney for which he has refused one hundred dollars. Mr. Higgins keeps good stock and manifests practical judgment in their care. He also has a nice orchard upon his place and everything about his farm is in various ways showing him to be a wide-awake, loyal and enterprising owner.

The home of Mr. and Mrs. Higgins has been blessed with four children, but only one is now living - George D., who was the second in order of birth, and is now a lad of five years. Emmet, the eldest, died at the age of one year and twelve days. The other children, Iva and Ora, were twins and died in infancy. In his political views Mr. Higgins is a Democrat, but, though requested many times to accept public office, he has always refused, preferring to devote his time and energies to his business affairs, in which he is meeting with creditable and well-merited success.

Hiram Royse

When Hiram Royse was called to the home beyond one more name was added to the list of honored dead, whose earthly records closed with the words "Well done, thou good and faithful servant," but as long as memory remains to those who knew him the influence of his upright life will remain as a source of encouragement-and inspiration. "Our echoes roll from soul to soul," and the good we do lives after us through all ages, handed down from generation to generation. Mr. Royse was a man well known in Piatt county, where, for many years, he was identified with agricultural pursuits.

He was born in Bartholomew county, Indiana, upon his father's farm, October 23. 1840. His parents were Aaron and Elizabeth (McGuyre) Royse. The father was born in Clark county, Indiana, and the mother's birth also occurred in that state. They remained residents of Indiana throughout their entire lives, and during the greater part of the time Aaron Royse was connected with agricultural interests. Thus it was that Hiram Royse was reared upon a farmr and like most farmer boys of the period he attended the district schools through the winter months, while in the summer seasons he worked upon the home farm, thus continuing to assist his father until he reached his twenty-second year.

At that time Hiram Royse was married, the lady of his choice being Miss Helen Long, who was born in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, in August. 1844, being the fifth in order of birth in a family of ten children, whose parents were Young B. and Catherine (Weaver) Long. Both Mr. and Mrs. Long were natives of Pennsylvania, but soon after their marriage they removed to Tuscarawas county. Ohio, and when Mrs. Royse was a little maiden of six summers they went to Bartholomew county. Indiana, where she was reared, educated and married. It was on the 23d of October, 1861, that she gave her hand in marriage to Hiram Royse.

The young couple began their domestic life in Indiana, where they lived for about seven years. They also spent two years in Macon county, Illinois, but not being pleased with that locality, they removed to DeWitt county, Illinois, where they spent one year. On the. expiration of that period they came to Piatt county, settling in Goose Creek township in 1871. Mr. Royse purchased eighty acres of new land upon which not a furrow had been turned or an improvement made, but he at once l>egan to break the prairie and to carry on the work of cultivation. Therefore, it was not long before a marked change was wrought in the appearance of the place, and instead of the wild prairie grasses were seen rich fields of grain, giving promise of abundant harvests. From time to time Mr. Royse added to his property as his financial resources increased until within the boundaries of his farm was comprised a valuable tract of three hundred and sixty acres. On this place he carried on general agricultural pursuits and stock-raising, meeting with excellent success in his undertakings. He erected a good residence, built substantial barns and other outbuildings and added other improvements as they were needed. His farm became a valuable one, attractive in appearance and was the visible evidence of the life of industry and enterprise led by Mr. Royse. For many years he carried on agricultural pursuits with success, annually adding to his income until he had obtained a very desirable competence. He then removed from his farm to Monticello in 1895 and continued to make his home in the capital city until his death, which occurred Ma}' 14, 1900. The last five years of his life were spent in honorable retirement from business cares. He well merited the rest which came to him for all that he possessed had been acquired through his own honest efforts.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Royse were born nine children : Emily, who is now the wife of A. M. Doss, a resident farmer of Willow Branch township; Amanda E., the wife of Fred Swam, also a farmer; Albert E., who resides in Johnson county, Indiana ; Mary A., the wife of John Stilabower, oi Piatt county : Ella O.,who died in her eighth year; Clara E., the deceased wife of William O. Daffer; Josie, at home; John A., who resides on the old homestead farm in Goose Creek township; and Harvey E., who is a student in school.

The home farm of three hundred and sixty acres is still in possession of the family, and of this Mrs. Royse owns one hundred and sixty acres in her own right. She has performed her part of wife and mother in the home, and is a most estimable ladv who shares in the high regard of all with \\hnni she comes in contact. She has a comfortable residence in Monticello, where she is now living, and she has seventeen grandchildren, who take great delight in visiting their grandmother. Of the Methodist Episcopal church she is an acceptable member and her life has ever been in consistent harmony with its teachings and faith. To this church Mr. Royse belonged and was one of its liberal contributors, took an active interest in its work and thus did what he could to advance its growth and welfare. He died in its faith in 1900, and, passing away, he left to his family not only a handsome competence, but also an untarnished record, for his life was ever honorable and those who knew him entertained for him the highest confidence.

The world instinctively pays deference to the man whose success has been worthily achieved, who has overcome the obstacles in his path and has reached a creditable position in the business world. This is a progressive age and he who does not continually advance is soon left behind. By the improvement of opportunities by which all are surrounded, J. M. Shively has steadily and honorably worked his way upward and is to-day one of the prosperous business men of Cerro Gordo, where he is connected with the grain trade as a member of the firm of J. M. Shively & Company. He represents an old and prominent family of the county. He was born in Indiana in 1860, a son of Andrew and Barbara (Metzger)

Shively, the former of Montgomery county, Ohio, and the latter of Clinton county, Indiana. Andrew Shively went to Indiana in his youth, locating first in Clinton county, where he carried on agricultural pursuits until 1872. He then came to Piatt county and purchased a tract of land in Cerro Gordo township, where he carried on general farming with success until 1887. His well directed efforts, his sound business judgement and his indefatigable industry brought to him capital sufficient to enable him to put aside business cares and after removing to Cerro Gordo he lived retired here for a few years. Wishing, however, to enjoy the balmy climate of California, he removed to Lordsburg, that state, where he is still living, resting in the enjoyment of the fruits of his former toil. His wife passed away in Cerro Gordo in 1895. They were the parents of three children : Susan, who is now the wife of Isaac Metzger, a resident of Cerro Gordo; John M., our subject ; and Joseph, who resides upon a farm in Cerro Gordo township.

To the public school system of this county J. M. Shively is indebted for the educational privileges he enjoyed. After putting aside his text books he began farming in Cerro Gordo township and was thus employed until 1887, when he took up his abode in the town and turned his attention to the grain business. The grain elevator which he owns is the largest here. It was built in 1886 by Mr. Shellabaer, who operated it until May, 1889, and then sold to E. R. Ulrich & Son and this firm continued to conduct the business until the spring of 1902, when they sold it to Mr. Shively and on the ist of November, 1902, our subject admitted

H. Phillips to a partnership and the enterprise has since been carried on under the firm style of J. M. Shively & Company. They are engaged in buying and shipping grain, for which they pay the highest market price and their business has already assumed extensive and profitable proportions.

Mr. Shively was happily married to Miss Katie Wagoner, of Oakley, Macon county, Illinois, and both he and his wife are members of the Brethren church of Cerro Gordo. In politics he is independent, supporting the men whom he thinks best qualified for office. He has never held nor desired office for himself, preferring to devote his time and attention to his business affairs, in which he is meeting with creditable success. His life has been quietly passed and yet there are in his history lessons worthy of consideration and emulation, for he has always" been loyal to the ties of home, of friendship and of citizenship and such a man well merits the esteem of those with whom he comes in contact.

Florence Sullivan

Among the worthy sons of the Emerald Isle who have become residents of Illinois is numbered Florence Sullivan and there is in his life record much that is worthy of commendation and emulation. He has engaged in the harness business in Mansfield since 1870 and under circumstances that would have utterly discouraged many a man of less resolute spirit he has worked his way stead'ly upward, acquiring a comfortable competence and

Mr. Sullivan is a native of, County Cork, Ireland, born on the 4th of May, 1836. His parents were Florence and Ellen (Rouan) Sullivan, in whose family were nine children, the subject of this review being the sixth in order of birth. The children were named as follows: Cornelius, Mary, Julia, James, Daniel, Florence, Johanna, Patrick and John, but Mr. Sullivan of this review is the only one now living. In the schools of his native country he began his education and was there reared to manhood. He perhaps had more advantages than some boys and less than others. His youth, however, was largely a period of toil. He was thirteen years of age when he crossed the Atlantic to America in company with some of his relatives, the family embarking on the sailing vessel Bridalbin, which was five weeks and three days in completing the voyage. At length, however, anchor was dropped in the harbor of Boston, Massachusetts, in the year 1849 and the family went from that city to Rutland, Vermont.

In 1851 Mr. Sullivan had both of his legs taken off by the cars. He afterward learned the harness maker's trade and embarked in business on his own account in the spring of 1854. opening a shop in Aurora, New York. During the Civil war he was employed in making harness for the army and earned good wages at that time. He has ever been a man of unfaltering industry and certainly deserves great credit for what he has accomplished m life. He continued to reside in the east until 1870, when he removed to Illinois, establishing his home in Mansfield, Piatt county, on the 3d of November. Here he opened a harness shop which he has since conducted. He is an excellent workman in this line and the business which he has carried on has brought to him a good financial return because of the splendid quality of harness which he manufactures. These find a ready sale upon the market and he now enjoys a good trade.

On the 2d of January, 1870, Mr. Sullivan was united in marriage to Miss Margaret McCarty and unto them were born four children, but the mother and children have all passed away. In his political views Mr. Sullivan is independent, voting for the men rather than the party. He has served as a member of the village board for two years and is deeply interested in everything pertaining to the progress and welfare of his community. He holds membership in the Roman Catholic church and is a wide-awake, energetic American citizen imbued with the progressive spirit of the times and keeping in touch with the world's advancement.

Colonel W. H. Jamison

Deeds of valor have been the theme of song and story throughout all the ages, nor can such tales be told too often. When this country became involved in civil war over the attempt of the south to destroy the Union, patriotic men from all walks of life flocked to the standard of their country. They came from the shops, the fields, the counting room, the offices and even from the pulpits, all anxious to aid in the preservation of the nation. Among the brave sons of Illinois was Colonel William H. Jamison. Although several years passed after the close of the war before he was called to his final rest, he practically laid down his life upon the altar of his country for his long and arduous service in its defense, undermined his health that he was never again able to take his place among the active business men. All honor is due him and his -name should be enrolled high among the brave sons of Illinois who bore such a glorious part in the struggle for the Union.

Colonel Jamison was a native of New York, born in the Empire state, on the 6th of October, 1831. His parents were William and Ann Jamison, the former of Scotch and Irish extraction, while the latter was horn in England. In her early girlhood, however, she was brought to America, becoming a resident of New York. During the early boyhood of the Colonel his parents removed from New York to Ohio, settling in Franklin county, about ten miles east of Columbus, where he grew to manhood, acquiring his education in the public schools, and in a select school of London, Ohio. In 1855 he started westward and came as far as Monticello, Illinois. He had learned the blacksmith's trade in London, Ohio, and on arriving in this city he opened a shop, which he continued to conduct until after the outbreak of the Civil war, when in response to his country's call for troops he enlisted, becoming a member of the Twentyfirst Illinois Volunteer Infantry under command of Colonel U. S. Grant. He was mustered in at Mattoon, Illinois, and on the organization of the company he was commissioned first lieutenant. He participated in a number of important battles which bore a part in shaping the final victory of the Union army. He took part in the engagement at Lookout Mountain and in the battle of Franklin, Tennessee, and at that place he barely escaped with his life, a ball passing through his chin whiskers. He was always a loyal and valorous soldier, and his bravery and meritorious conduct on the field of battle several times won him promotion. He was first made captain of his company, then promoted to the rank of major, and finally became lieutenant colonel of his regiment, with which rank he served until after the close of the war, receiving an honorable discharge in December, 1865, having been with the army over four years. His military service was certainly most creditable. He was a faithful officer, and while he never needlessly exposed his men to danger, he often led them into the thickest of the fight and by his own courage inspired them to deeds of valor.

Colonel Jamison, however, made a great sacrifice for his country. He returned to his home in Monticello much broken in health, and was thereafter unable to attend to business. He continued to suffer from the troubles brought about by the exposures and hardships of army life -until thirteen years had passed and he was then called to his final rest in 1878.

Before going to the war Colonel Jamison had married Miss Martha J. Tinder, who was born in Rockingham county, Virginia, on the igth of March, 1833, the second daughter of Asher W. and Delila C. (Lewis) Tinder. In 1853 ner parents removed to Piatt county. She was at that time a young lady of about twenty years, and on the loth of February. 1856, she gave her hand in marriage to Mr. Jamison. They became the parents of two daughters : Inez and Flo A., the wife of Scott Miller, a resident of Wilmington, Illinois. He is the superintendent of the Widows' Home and was instrumental in its establishment. Mrs.

Jamison has two granddaughters : Zola L'rda, who is an artist; and Mattie, who is now the wife of J. C. Tippett, circuit court clerk and recorder of Piatt county.

Colonel Jamison was a most active and earnest Republican, joining the party on its organization. It become the defender of the Union in the dark days of the country's peril, and he never wavered in his allegiance thereto, giving to it his stalwart support up to the time of his demise. He did everything he could for its success, and he was always deeply interested in the welfare of the city and the promotion of its best interests. At his death many friends mourned his loss for his many excellent traits of character had endeared him to those with whom he was associated. His widow is a member of the Woman's Relief Corps of Monticello, and also of the Chapter of the Eastern Star, the auxiliary of the Masonic fraternity. She is a lady of culture, having graduated in the high school of London, Ohio, and she has a good home in Monticello and is granted a pension by the government.

James W. Lowther

Prominent among the citizens of Piatt county who have witnessed the marvelous development of this section of the state in the past thirty-five years, and who have, by honest toil and industry, succeeded in acquiring a competence and are now able to spend the evening of life in quiet and retirement, is the gentleman whose name introduces this sketch. His home is on section 7, Unity township.

ents, and he was reared by John Daw-son, of Ohio. His boyhood and youth were passed upon the farm, where he early became familiar with hard work and thoroughly mastered agricultural pursuits, but his literary education was limited. He was reared amid pioneer conditions in Scioto county, Ohio, and when a boy often used a single shovel plow drawn by one horse. Many a day he has dropped corn by hand and cut grain with a scythe and cradle. The hum of the spinning wheel was heard throughout the day in the home of his foster parents, and the clothes of the girls were made from linsey-woolsey, while the boys wore jeans. Kerosene lamps had not come into use,- and tallow candles furnished the light in the little pioneer homes.

Coming west in 1868, Mr. Lowther settled in Piatt county, Illinois, and has since watehecl with interest the growth and development of this portion of the country. The wild prairies stretched for miles around and were covered with ponds and sloughs, and small game was plentiful. The railroad had not then been built through Voorhies and he has seen the upbuilding of that and other villages in this county.

For one year after his arrival Mr. Lowthers worked by the month as a farm hand and then rented land until 1875.' In the meantime he saved money to buy a home and invested in one hundred and twenty acres of raw prairie on section 7, Unity township, for which he paid twenty-five dollars and a half per acre, but it is now worth one hundred and twenty-five dollars petacre. After tiling and draining his land he placed it under cultivation and successfully engaged in general farming for several years. He planted every tree now found upon the place, built fences, set out an orchard and made many other improvements, so that he now has a very desirable place. For the past nine years he has practically lived, retired from active labor, leaving the land to be operated by a tenant, and Mr. Hubbell has been in charge for three years. Mr. Lowther votes the Republican ticket and takes a commendable interest in public affairs. He is one of the old and honored residents of his section of the county and deserves representation in the Past and Present of Piatt county.

Samuel J. Foulk

Samuel J. Foulk, who is connected with agricultural pursuits in Bement township, where he owns and operates two hundred acres of land on section 21, is a native of Pennsylvania, his birth having occurred in Somerset county, on .the 3ist of January, 1843. The family is of German descent and was founded in America by the greatgrandfather of our subject who came from that country and located in the Keystone state. George Foulk, the grandfather of our subject, died in Pennsylvania when a comparatively young man. Jacob Foulk, the father of our subject, was born in Somerset county, Pennsylvania, in 1817, and throughout his entire life he followed the occupation of farming in the state of his nativity. He was a prosperous and progressive man, his business being capably conducted along the lines which brought to him a good financial return. His political support was given to the Whig party until its dissolution when he joined the ranks of the new Republican party, but while he kept well informed on the questions and issues of the day, he never sought or desired public office, content to do his duty as a private citizen. He was a member of the Mennonite church, to which his wife also belonged. In her maidenhood Mrs. Foulk bore the name of Barbara Gincrick. She was born in 1816 in Germany, and when seventeen years of age came to the United States with her brother, her parents having died in the fatherland. Her death occurred when she was seventy-three years of age. To her family she was a devoted wife and loving mother, and by her marriage she had seven children, of whom three are living, the subject of this review being the third in order of birth. His brothers are Jeremiah, who is a retired farmer residing in Pennsylvania; and Ananias, who carries on agricultural pursuits in Pennsylvania.

Samuel J. Foulk remained in the Keystone state until after he had attained his majority, and in 1865, when twenty-two years of age he came -to the west, believing - that he might have better opportunities in this growing section of the country. He located in McLean county, Illinois, near Hayworth, where he lived for one year, devoting his energies to general agricultural pursuits. He then removed to the vicinity of Bloomington, where he resided for five years. On the expiration of that period he came to Piatt county and purchased eighty acres of land in Bement township. This was situated on section 21 and was only parcially improved, but with characteristic energy he began its further cultivation and development, and as the years have passed he has also extended the boundaries of his farm until it now comprises two hundred acres, a part of which he rents to a tenant, but the remainder of the land he cultivates and it has been his home since his arrival in Piatt county in the early seventies. He carries on general farming and stock-raising and in his business career he has met with prosperity, owing to the excellent farming methods which he follows and his progressive labors, placing him in the front ranks of the leading agriculturists of the community.

In 1863 Mr. Foulk was united in marriage to Miss Lizzie Welfly, who was born in Somerset county, Pennsylvania, and came to Illinois after her marriage. She is a daughter of Israel and Susannah Welfly, who were likewise natives of the Keystone state. The father is still living at the age of ninety-three years, but the mother passed away many years ago, dying at the early age of twenty-eight years. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Foulk have been born five children, but only one is now living. The eldest, Emma, died at the age of six months; the second died in infancy ; Alsinus died at the age of four years ; and Orville died at the age of seventeen years. The three eldest were born in McLean county and the others in Bement township. The living son is Earl E., who was the fifth member of the family and is now twenty-three years of age. He was educated in Bement township and assists his father in the operation of the home farm. Both Mr. and Mrs. Foulk are members of the Methodist church, taking an active and helpful part in its work, and he is serving as steward, and is one of the church trustees. In politics he is a stalwart Republican and held the office of school director, while at the present time he is school trustee. The cause of education finds in him a warm friend who has done much to promote the interests of the schools and advance their permanent improvement. Coming to the west in earlv manhood, Mr. Foulk here found the business opportunities he sought for throughout the length and breadth of the land there is no better agricultural district than is afforded in Piatt county. Working earnestly and systematically he has year by year added to his possessions until he is now accounted one of the substantial farmers of this community.

Louis Benard

Louis Benard is a retired farmer and extensive landowner now residing in the village of Hammond, where he occupies a beautiful residence. He is well known throughout Piatt county and is numbered among its pioneer settlers for he located in Bement in 1864 and has since resided in this portion of the state. Great changes have occurred since that time and the transformation wrought in Piatt has kept this county abreast with the universal improvement, making it one of the leading agricultural counties of this great state. For a number of years Mr. Benard was actively associated with farming interests and as the years passed he made judicious investments in real estate until he is now one of the extensive landowners.

A native of Canada, Louis Benard was born in Montreal in 1837, and is a son of Louis and Ovede (LaCrosse) Benard, who were also natives of Canada, in which country they spent their entire lives, the father devoting his energies to agricultural pursuits there. Unto him and his wife were born ten children, among whom were three son.s who served in the Union army and are now residents of Albany, New York. The other members of the

Mr. Benard of this review obtained his education in the country schools of Canada and at the age, of seventeen years he left home, going to Upper Canada and afterward to Ogdensburg, New York. Starting out in life with but limited means, he soon realized that there is no royal road to wealth and also recognized the fact that persistency of purpose and strong determination are forceful elements in obtaining success. Therefore he labored energetically at whatever claimed his attention. While living in Ogdensburg, New York, he was united in marriage to Miss Mary Smithers, a native of St. Lawrence county, that state, born on the Qth of Ocober, 1837, and a daughter of Thomas and Marie (Stephens) Smithers. who were natives of England and came to the United States in 1836, settling in St. Lawrence county, New. York, where both the father and mother passed away. Throughout the years of his active business career Mr. Smithers engaged in farming.

After his marriage Mr. Benard resided for five months in New -Hampshire and during that time learned and followed the shoemaker's trade. He afterward removed to Vermont, living successively in Northfield, Montpelier and other places, where he followed shoemaking for six years or until August, 1864, when he came to the west and has since made his home in the Mississippi valley. He settled in the village of Bement, Piatt county, Illinois, where he worked at the shoemakers' trade for four years. He then traded his shoe shop for a team of horses and removed to Moultrie county, Illinois, having but three dollars and fifty cents in his pocket at that time. There he engaged in farming for four years and in 1872 he returned to Piatt county, settling on a farm in Unity township, where he engaged in tilling of the soil for more than twenty years. In 1895 he removed to the village of Hammond and built his present residence, since which time he has lived retired. Those who know aught of his history recognize that he has been a man of marked industry who has carried on his work so steadily and energetically that he has gained a comfortable competence. He is still the owner of one hundred and eighty acres of land in Unity township near Hammond, this constituting a well improved property. In addition to this he has six hundred and forty acres of productive land in central Minnesota and three hundred and twenty acres of land in the Yazoo valley in Mississippi. He has placed his capital in the safest of all investments, real estate, and is to-day the owner of valuable property which returns to him a splendid income, enabling him to live retired from further business cares, save the supervision of his property.

The home of Mr. and Mrs. Benard was blessed with four children : Louis, who is with his parents; Lilly, the wife of Charles Bunyan, who is engaged in the lumber business in Hammond ; Marie, the wife of John Dick, a farmer residing in Moultrie county, Illinois ; and Fred E., who married Ethel Kizer, by whom he has one child and who is now engaged in general merchandising in Hammond.

Mr. Benard gives his political support to the Democracy, having always voted that ticket, but he has never been an office seeker nor has he desired political preferment. Socially he is a member of the Masonic order, belonging to Bement Lodge, F. & A. M. He always spends his summer months on his land in Minnesota, while the winter season is passed in his pleasant home in Hammond. He is a man of sterling purpose, of strong force of character and of upright life and his successful career excites- the admiration and commands the respect of those who are at all familiar with his history. He started out upon his business career empty handed and to no fortunate combination of circumstances does he owe his success. Such a history should serve as a source of encouragemnt to others, showing that prosperity may be won through perseverance and diligence.

John G. Fulk

The subject of this sketch in one of the leading and representative citizens of Cerro Gordo township, where after years of active labor mainly devoted to agricultural pursuits he is now living retired at his pleasant home on section 35. He was born in Rockingham, Virginia, November 9, 1849, an<i is a son °f John and Martha (Roadcap) Fulk, who spent their entire lives in that state. In their family were ten children, all of whom reached man and womanhood. Two of the sons were killed during the Civil war, one while serving in the Southern army, and the other while fighting with the Union forces in North Carolina. The father's sympathies were with the north during those trying days. One son and five of the daughters are still living in Virginia and

John G. Fulk passed his boyhood and youth in his native state and was given good educational advantages. On reaching manhood he was married December 19, 1875, to Miss Sarah Wine, a daughter of Michael S. and Elizabeth (Fry) Wine, also natives of the Old Dominion, where her father still resides, her mother being now deceased. They had five children, two sons and three daughters, four of whom are now living, two of the number making their home in Virginia. One son, J. C. Wine, is a resident of Cerro Gordo township, this county.

Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Fulk. Rilla, the eldest, is now the wife of O. R. Turney, of Pocahontas county, Iowa, and has two children, Fern and Elma J. George L. is a graduate of De Pauw University at Greencastle, Indiana, and is now studying law in Chicago, at the same time being in the employ of Baldwin Brothers, prominent attorneys of that city. He is thus making his way through school though he saved part of the money to meet his expenses while teaching in Kentucky for one year. He is also serving as notary public in Chicago. William, the youngest of the family, is a graduate of the Cerro Gordo schools.

It was on the 28th of February, 1885, that Mr. Fulk arrived in Piatt county and for nine years he rented the John S. Kuns farm. He had brought with him nine hundred dollars, but this was spent in stocking the farm and he would have found it difficult to niake a start here if it had not been for the kindly assistance of Mr. Kuns, who is to-day an extensive fruit farmer of California. In 1894 he removed to his present farm on section 35, Cerro Gordo township, which at that time was only partially improved. The place consisted of two hundred and forty acres, to which he subsequently added forty acres, but he later , sold eighty acres, so that he to-day has two hundred acres of as fine farming land as is to be found in the state. He has erected thereon a large and substantial barn, sixty by ninety feet with a brick floor, and capable of accommodating twenty horses, and has also built two cattle stables which will shelter thirty head. He has a corn-crib which holds about twenty-five hundred bushels and also has storag-e room for twenty-eight -hundred bushels of small grain besides seven hundred bushels of oats in thp. feed bin. He has a good system of private water works upon his farm, and has spent between five and six thousand dollars on improvements since locating here, making his place one of the most desirable .farms of its size in this section of the state.

To his industry, enterprise and good management Mr. Fulk ow>s much of his success in life, but he also gives his wife credit for her share in the same as she has proved to him a faithful companion and helpmate on life's journey, aiding him in every possible way by her encouragement and cheerfulness as well as by her labor. They are active members of the German Baptist church of Cerro Gordo, in .which he is serving as deacon, and they have the respect and confidence of all who know them. Mr. Fulk is now practically living retired while two hired men operate his farm, although he still gives his personal supervision to the work. During eight of the nine years while living on the Kuns farm he served as school director and has ever given an earnest support to those measures calculated to advance the educational, moral and material welfare of the community in which he resides. He is therefore justly entitled to prominent mention in the history of his adopted county.

Although one of the more recent additions to the professional circles of Piatt county, during the five years of his residence in Monticello, Dr. Lord has gained a prominent position as one of the leading dentists here, having a large and growing practice. Dentistry is unique among the professions, in that it demands three elements for success - marked technical knowledge, mechanical skill and the ability to handle the financial interests of the work. He must not only be well equipped in the knowledge which can be gained from text books, but he must also have the power to handle, with mechanical precision, the varied and delicate little instruments with which work upon the teeth is executed. In all these lines Dr. Lord is well equipped for his professional work, and has attained a high degree of success in the prosecution of his chosen calling.

A native of Iowa, Dr. Lord was torn in the city of DesMoines, on the 8th of June, 1857. His father, P. A. Lord, is a native of Ohio, but removed to Iowa in 1856, and there engaged in merchandising. Later he made his way to the Pacific coast, where he spent six years, and on the expiration of that period he returned to the east, taking up his abode in Monticello, Illinois, where he carried on merchandising for a number of years. He was one of the leading representatives of business interests here, and his efforts added greatly to the commercial activity of the citv. He married Miss Margaret

Oliver, of Mechanicsburg, Illinois, in which place she was born, reared and married. Her death occurred in Monticello, in April, 1899, and was deeply lamented by many friends, who had learned to prize highly her sterling worth and her faithful friendship. After the death of his wife P. A. Lord, having disposed of all his property in Monticello, removed to Springfield. Illinois, where he is now living, in the seventy-fourth year of his age, his birth having occurred in October, 1829.

Dr. William L. Lord spent his boyhood days in Logan county, Illinois, and attended the public schools of Mount Pulaski, acquiring a good English education. Determining to make the practice of dentistry his life work he then entered upon preparation for that calling as a student in the office of Dr. D. M. Doty, of Mount Pulaski. He completed his studies by attending for one term the dental school in Washington Territory, and then successfully passing an examination before the state board, he received a certificate to practice and located in Mount Pulaski.

In 1884 Dr. Lord located in Dayton, the county seat of Columbia county. Washington, where he engaged in practice for four years, or until 1888. He then returned to Mount Pulaski, Illinois, but after a short time removed -to Homer, Illinois, where he practiced successfully for nine years. He then came -to Monticello, arriving on the 26th of January, 1898. Here he has since built up a good practice, having a well appointed office supplied with everything necessary for the successful prosecution of his work in accordance with modern improved methods. He has always kept abreast with the progress of the times in the science of dentistry, and in no profession has there been made more marked advance than in the one to which Dr. Lord devoted his energies.

On Christmas day of 1879 Dr. Lord was happily married to Miss Mary Eve Mathews, who was torn in Mount Pulaski, Illinois, December n, 1858. They became the parents of seven children, four still living, namely : Ralph O., who is assistant general agent of the Cincinnati, Hamilton & Dayton Railroad at Sprinfield, Illinois ; Ada. L., the wife of Carl Motherspaw, of Peoria, Illinois; Hilma and Eldon H., who are at home. On the I3th of January, 1900, Mrs. Lord was called to her final rest. She had made many friends during her brief residence in Monticello and here, as in other places where she had lived, her death was deeply mourned by those who knew her. Perhaps no better estimate of her character and life can be given than was presented in the obituary notice published in one of the Monticello papers, which said : "Mrs. Lord was a devoted, faithful wife, a tender and indulgent mother and a kind and thoughtful neighbor. In times of sickness and distress she was ever ready to offer her assistance in any capacity it might be needed. Her nature was broad and generous, and no needy one ever appealed to her for aid in vain. She was an accomplished artist, who delighted in the beautiful and her home was adorned with many specimens of her talent and skill. Mrs. Lord was a member of the Christian church, was of a deeply religious nature, but was quiet and unostentatious in her belief. She believed in deeds, not words, as an expression of her faith, and in her life she certainly exemplified the true spirit of Christianitv. She was a member of the

Royal Neighbors of America and other fraternal organizations, and in their beneficent work took an active part. The funeral services were in charge of the Monticello Royal Neighbor Camp, and the funeral sermon was pronounced by the Rev. W. S. Calhoun. then amid the flowers which she loved so well - a very profusion of beautiful floral offerings - she was laid to rest."

Dr. Lord, in the line of his profession, holds membership with the Washington State Dental Society, and Eastern Illinois society. He is a gentleman of many excellent traits of character, not the least of which is his public-spirited citizenship and his deep and helpful interest in everything pertaining to the general welfare. In manner he is cordial and genial, and his unfailing courtesy has rendered him popular with those whom he has met - and his acquaintance is a wide one. His attention, like that of the enterprising business man, is chiefly given to his profession, and by his skill and ability he has won the liberal patronage which is to-dav accorded him.

Sylvester Wilhelmy is a young man of strong nature and marked force of character who could never content himself with mediocrity. He has engaged in practice in the village of La Place only since the 29th of October, 1902, but has already won public recognition of his skill. Dr. Wilhelmy is a native of Decatur, Illinois, and was born on the 27th of September, ber, 1875. His parents, Jacob and Mary Wilhelmy are residents of Decatur and the father is there engaged in teaching music.

This worthy couple are the parents of six children, of whom Dr. Sylvester Wilhelmy is the second son. The eldest is Dr. A. F. Wilhelmy, a medical practitioner in Decatur. The daughter Mrs. E. E. Edwards resides in the village of Cerro Gordo. Mrs. Charles Edie and Mrs. Charles Pease are residents of Decatur.

In the public schools of his native city Dr. Wilhelmy of this review acquired his early education and in Decatur continued his studies until he had completed the high school course by graduation with the class of 1897. Desiring to enter upon professional life and making choice of the practice of medicine as his preferred occupation, he then went to Cincinnati, where he entered upon preparation for his chosen calling as a student, in the Cincinnati Medical College, in which he remained for four years. He was also an attendant in the hospital of the same college and thus gained broad, practical experience as well as theoretical knowledge. He was graduated from the institution with the class of 1901, receiving his diploma of practice in May of the same year. He was class orator the same year, which is the highest honor of the class. He then returned to Macon county and, locating west of Decatur, entered upon his professional career there. After about a year and a half he came to La Place and purchased the practice of Dr. Davidson, since which time he has been located here, steadily . gaining favor with the public as his capability is evidenced.