Pike County, Illinois - Biographical sketches, 1880 (part 4 of 4)

Amos and Joseph Jackson, David Button, Major Hinckley, Parley Jackson, Daniel Howard, Mr. Rice, Mr. Mitchell and Andrew Shearer were also very early settlers in this township, and did much for the improvement of the county.

These early settlers endured many liardshii)S and privations in preparing the way for future generations and future prosperity, which the people of to-day know not of. They ground their orn for food on a hand-mill, and at times crushed it in a hominy block. The latter consisted of a hole burnt in a stump or block of wood, in which corn was placed and crushed with an iron wedge or mallet. In a short time, however, these odd and rude pieces of )>ioneer machinery were replaced by horse-mills. These were generally situated eight or ten miles from the settlers here, and although they were a great improvement upon the hand-mills and hominy blocks, the process of grinding would be considered very slow, indeed, by the |)eo|iIe of this day iiiul age of stoain-mills. The boys then werit ti» mill on horsehack, and sehloni ever rotiiriied the khiiu' day. Thev wiMiM coii'MTijiite uikUt the i»i«l shed of the ht»r6e-niill while waiting fur tlieir turn, and there make a fire and j)areh corn, tell jokeB, etc. In this way tiiey would pass the night very jdeasantly without HUjiper or 8l(M'|); for the supjH'r c«»uld not be had, and there wa.> n») plai'e to 6lee[», .«»ave on the sacks of corn.

Then came tiie days of schotds and churches. The firdt schoolhouse erected by the settlers was on sec. 22, in isji. It was a log CJibin with a clapboard di><»r, puncheon floor, slab benches for seats and a huge fire-place at one end of the ro«»m. The th-sks c<)nsiste<l of puncheitns supported by pins in tlie wall; the fire-place had no chimney except above tlie roof; there were two d(H)rs, one at each side of the tire-place. The fuel used co:isiste<l of huge U>*^a^ which were ofteji ilr-. - - ! int4t the house by a horse coming in at one door ami pa^sing ; ^h and out at the other. Around and near the fire-place there was no fi<ior except the ground, the puncheon floor covering the back pjirt of therooin «»nly. The window consisted of a lot; renuive*! iVom one si<ie of the roou), with gn'H>.e<l ]>!ip«r paste<f over the aj»erture. The first te«cher liere was a Mr. KuuKin. The

Itcligious wor^hip was early instituted in the first settlement of this township. The first si-rmt>n was |>reaclu'd by Ifrv. .Mr. Hunter, of the MethtKlist denomination, and the first regularly organized religious society was aUit that of the Methodists. This society first worshi|»cti in the house t»f Mr. J»^ck^on, and afterward in theschoolfiouse on sec. *J2. The M«irm »ns aUo fi;jure<l larirelv in a Church organi/.atit»n here S4Mne years later. They at one time ha<i a society of altout 100 communicants, and erected a house of worshin in the northwest part of the townshii>. When the NauviM* trouble, came, however, they left this neignlmrlnHKf to join their brethren at that place. The old Mormon church was afterward moved to the .Mississippi river, and there used for a warehouse.

The first white child l»orn in the Ip. was An«lrew J. Stanley, in 1823. The tirst death was that of Marv. lane Mc Daniel which <»ccurred in the autumn of the same year. The first parties marrie*! were I'otter Sa.xhorn and Matilda Stanley, in the yeiir 1S'J.'«.

In those early days the wagons, for the most part, were rudely constructed by the settlers themselves, and consisted wludly of Wi>i»d. The wheels were sawn from large sycamore trees, and holes were boretl in the center, in which to insert the axletrees. The farmers often used these wagons in going to mill, hauling their produce to market, and for a convevance in whicli to attend Church.

In pioneer times, when there were scarcely any Icnces, and not land enough u»'der cultivation to stop the great prairie fires which occurred in the fall of the year, thev proved very disastrous to those living on the prairie. This township consists, for the most part, of Mississippi river bottom land, a large portion of which is prairie. The i;rass on this bottom land ii^rew to an onormons height, was very thick, and as hiy;h as a man's head while on horseback. This grass was so heavj' and thick that when the settlers went a-lishing in the Sny they wonld hitch the team to a large brush or tree and drag it through the grass and mash it down, to make a road for them to pass over. In the fall of the year this hi xu riant growth of grass would be set on fire by the Indians or hunters, and especially when the wind was high, would sweep resistlessly over the whole country, high and low, destroying a great deal of property.

The pioneers early learned to guard against this destructive element by plowing wide strips of land around their premises and around their grain and hay. As soon as the alarm of fire was given, each settler would immediately begin to " back fire." This was done by setting the grass on fire next outside the plowed strip, which would burn slowly and meet the rai)idly advancing fiames that came rolling in majestic grandeur, from 20 to 30 feet in the air.

This bottom land is nownndera high state of cultivation, and since the completion of the levee has become one of the richest farming districts of America. The land lying between the Sriy and the Mississippi is timber land, and as fertile as the prairie. It is now rapidly being cleared and improved. This district bears the appearance of being a new country, however, for wild animals are quite numerous hero, and also the gray and bald eagle.

iVIost of the land in this township was obtained from the Government at $1.25 per acre, and it was very readily paid for. The fur-bearing animals were very plenty here then, and a settler would obtain fur enough during the tail and winter to pay for 160 acres of land. We have it from good authority that it was not an uncommon occurrence to see five or six coons in one tree at one time during those pioneer days. Mr. Francis Jackson related to us that he saw at one time nine coons in one tree. Snakes also were very numerous and annoying, and especially the rattlesnake. The Mississippi bluffs, which extend from the northwest to the southeast, through this townshij^, were a constant den for the timber rattlesnakes, which were from five to eiirht feet lone:. The settlers were lasting enemies of these reptiles, and finally adopted a plan which resulted in their almost total extermination. They fastened bearded hooks to long poles and thrust these into their dens, drawing the snakes out and killing them, until no more snakes could be found. This was done in the sjjring of the year, before the snakes could crawl.

Wild cats, wild hogs, foxes, wolves, panthers and other wild animals abounded here v.'hen this township was first settled; some of which species remain to this day.

On the N. W. qr. of sec. 20 is a salt spring, which at one time afforded considerable salt water. Mr. Keyes carried water from this spring to his home, on sec. 22, a distance of a mile and a half.

A.s tlie blntt's exti-nd from the northwest to the southeast throiii^h the townshij), tJje up laml is divided from the bottom land, formin*^ a trlanijular section. This land is very rough and bn»ken,and is underlaid with a heavy bed of linjcstone, and is consequentlv bettt-r adapted to the growing of small grain and fruit than to general farming. There is some excellent farnung land along the cour.>ie of Keyes creek, whicii extends along the eastern portion of tlie township. This creek Wiis named in honor of Mr. Keyes, of whom we have spoken in thr first j>art (»f this sketch. At one time this cret'k and others abounded in countless numbers of tish, and thus aided in furnishing the settlers with the necessaries of life. Although the pioneers were deprived of many things that are en. joyed at the present day, yet tliey always had abundance to eat and wear. It their st»)re clothes or homesj»un gave way, they would simply construct clothing from the hides of animals.

The first Justice of the Peace of this township was Major Hinckley. James 'I'albert wa.>-' the first Supervisor. l"'rancis Jackson is the oldest settler now residing in the township. lie came in ls25, aii<l is the onlv man now liviiiir who went fri»m this localitv to the lilack Hawk War.

Nkw Canton

This enterprising town is situated on sees. 9 an<i !(>, Pleasant Vale township. It was foun<ied April 2, 18:55, by Charles T. Brewster, Hiram Smith and Jesse Tittsworth. It contains four stores, four blacksmith sliops, two wagon shops, two c;irpenter shops, two boot and shoe shops, one jiaint sh<tp, one cooper slioj), one excellent flouring mill, two hotels, one livery stal)le, one lodge of the IndejK'ndent Order of the Mutual Ai<l Society, which was estaldished in Febrtiary, 1S80, with a membership of 25 ; and is the residence of four ]>hvsicians. The present population of the town is about 350.

There was a church erected here in 1866, which is known as the Union Church. It is not owned by any one denomination, but by the community in general. There are two Church organizations liere. - the Metht>dists and the Ba])tists. The former is a remnant of the ttriginal M. E. ('hurch that was organized in ])ioneer days. The Baptists merged the old society into a new one in 1879. The music furnished by the young people during the hours of worshij) is excellent. Considerable interest is manifested here in this higli art, and two choirs have been formed, both of which exhibit superior musical talent.

The first school taught where the village now stands was in a dwelling house, by Mr. Hale in 1832. The first school-house was a log structure and was erected in ls3f». The present building is a handsome frame structure, and was erected in 1866. The teacher at present is Prof. Warren I). Bigelow, formerly of Ohio.

Pkksonal Skktcmes

M. M. Aldrloh, farmer, sec. 6; P. O., Hannibal, Mo.; was horn in New York in IS-JS, and is tlio son of M. ]\I. and Marv (ITorrington) Aldrich; was edncated in the common schools of Michigan, in which State he also kept store from 1S50 to 1856 ; was a sailor on the lakes 6 years ; he came to Pike county in 1860, settling on sec. 6, this tj)., where he now owns 350 acres of laTul; all he is now worth he has made within the last 20 years; he has a splendid farm in the Mississippi bottom. Mr. A. has been married twice, - the first time to Martha Parnell, and they had 3 daughters, 2 of whom are living. Mrs. A. died in 1860, and subsequently Mr. A. married Catharine Kendall, and of their 7 children 5 are living. Politically, Mr. A. is a Democrat.

John E. Alexander^ farmer, sec. 23 ; P. O., Cincinjiati ; was born in Indiana in 1S49, and is the son of William and Mary Ann (Dyke) Alexander; was educated in Iowa ; in 1873 he married Mary E. Knight, and they have had 2 children, one of whom is deceased. Mr. A. owns a good farm, and has the reputation of being an lionest, industrious man. In politics he is a lte])ul)lican.

Jonas Edward Arts, teacher and minister of the Gospel, was born in Pennsylvania, and is a son of Israel B. and Elizabeth (Eby) Artz, natives of Pennsylvania, and of German descent; was educated at Hamilton College, Hamilton countj''. 111.; has been preaching 3 years in the M. E. Church; now attends two or three appointments every Sunday, besides teaching, in which latter profession he is aho successful. P. O., New Canton.

Henry B. Atkinson, merchant. New Canton; was born in St. Louis, Mo., in 1842, and is the son of B. II. and Harriet (Morgan) Atkinson, father a native of New Jersey, and mother of Pennsylvania; educated in the common schools of I*ike county; in 1868 he married Orpha M. Witt, and they have had 3 children, 2 of whom are living; commenced mercantile business in company with his father at Pittsfield in 1865, and came to New Canton in 1876, where he 1ms succeeded well, dealing in drugs, medicines, groceries, farming implements, etc.; also buys and shi])S grain. New Canton is considered by many to be the best grain market in Pike county.

Elias Baldwin, farmer, sec. 16; P. C, New Canton; was born in Connecticut May 3, 1S16, and is a son of Wm. and Clara (Ives) Baldwin, natives also of that State; both his grandfathers drew pensions as Revolutionary soldiers; was educated in Connecticut; came to this county in 1836. In 1846 he married Permelia Safers, and they have had one child, Margaret, who is still at home. As a fanner, Mr. B. has been successful.

George Balzei\ butcher. New Canton; was born in Bavaria in 1845, the son of George and Catharine (Wizenberger) Balzer, natives of the same country; emigrated to Quincy, III., in 1847. and in 1SG4 to Pike county; received his CMlueutioii in the graded schools, iind luiy *V VcriePs C'oniiuercial ('itllci^e one term, and Baker' el three terms. In 18«»S he married Orintha Yearly, and they have had 4 children, all of whom are livin<;. Mr. Ji. commenoed his present business two years a<r<>, and so tar lias prospered well in it. lie commenceil clerking at theatre of 10 years, and Continued until he was Id, when he passed muster in the *27th 111. Inf., ajid served in the war 3 years; was in every battle in which the Re;;iment wjis enga«^ed, and was discharpjed in 18(54.

Warrev D. Bigtloio^ principal of the New Canton schools; is a native of I'ortu^je county, ()., and was l»orn Jan. 21^ 1840; his parents were Johnson and Mary (Lewis) Digelow; he received a common-school education in Ohio, and came to this county in 1805; he is a self made teacher, havin:^ i»btained the j^^reater part of his educiition while teachin*^; has now pursued his chosen occupation 15 years, and at present hius charge of the Xew Canton sciiools the secoiui year, adoptini; the latest nornnd plans. He has been marrie<l three times imd is tin* father of 0 chihlren, of whom 5 are livinj^, James W.. Albert I)., Ell>ert J., Mary O. and Lela Maud, the last W by his present wife. His first two wives died of cpiick Consumption.

Will mm UollHy New Canton; was lx)rn in Jefferson county, Ind., and is the sun of John and Celia (Sharp) l»olin, the latter a .lative of X'ir^inia; was educateil in the common schooUof Indiana and Kentucky. He first .married America Lawiiorne, and by her had 11 chihiren, 4 of whom are livin*:; she and 3 of the children died in one we«'k. .Mr. Holin afterward marrie<l Klizabeth Vanover, and by her had li children, one of whom is living; this Mrs. B. dietl in 1872, and for iiis third wife Mr. B. selected .Miss Nancy M. Sharp, and of their 3 children 2 are living.

Cfi<trUn N. BrammtU, farmer, sec. 17; P. O., New Canton; was born in this county in 1>47, and is the son of Thonuis and Amelia (Butler) Brammell, who emigrated to this c<»unty in 1834; Charles N. now has charge of his mother's farm, an<l is doing well; he was brought up a farmer, and wjis e<lucated in the commtju schools t»f tliis county. PoliticjiUy, he is a Democrat.

Charlfs T. lii' irster^ deceased, was born in New Yoi^k in 1811; remained with his father until 1832, when he Ixjught a piece of land on sec. 27 in this tp., and commence<i farming; in 1840 he went overlaml with an ox team to California, and engaged successfully in gold mining for 2 years; returning home, he enlarged his farming operations, adding the business of stock-raising. He accumulated considerable property and was a very popular man in his neighborhood; always paid his hands good wages, and promptly; one man worked for him 30 years; was Su|»ervisor many 3ears, and held otlier local offices. In 1852 he married Miss Melvina PerccU. and of their 8 children 3 are living, - Charles E., Anna M. and Minnie M. Mr. B. died Sept. 3, ls75. We present Mr. Brewster's portrait in this volume.

New Canton

Ildiiixdii Jiroici), liiriucr; 1*. O., New Canton; was Ikhh in Fiku county, ^lu., Feb. G, 1S28, and is a son of tTusej))! and Nancy C. (Bullen) Brown, natives of Kentucky, and botli born in 17*J8, near Lexington - father, Aug. 18, and mother, Sej)t. 17; fatlier was of Irish descent, and mother of Scotch. The i-ubject of this sketch was the tiiird child (2d son) of a family of 7 children, and is the only one living at present; a brother and two sisters died in 1856. Harrison was educated in this tp,, having been brought here by his father in 1820; has been a farmer all his life, excei>t 4 years in California gold-mining, ls52-(). Feb. 25, 1857, he married Eliza C. Shewe, and of their 7 children only 2 are now living: Joseph, who was born Oct. 25, 1861, and Mallie, Nov. 3, 1868. He owns 44(1 acres of land, 420 of it here in one bod}'. Mr. Brown's portrait is given in this volume.

William S. Coon, carpenter, was born in the town of Fabius, Onondaga Co., N. Y., Nov. 16, 1810, and is the son of Joseph and Lydia Coon, of Dutch ancestry ; was educated in the common schools of New York State; at the age of 24 he commenced to learn his trade. In 1853 he married Asha A. Ballan, who was born in the town of Sandy Creek, Oswego Co., N. Y., in 1835, and they have one child, Frank E., who was born in 1865. Mr. and Mrs. Coon are members of the Christian Church. lie is a Republican. P. O., New Canton.

George A. Dutcher, farmer, sec. 17; P.O., New Canton; was born Aug. 7, 1840, in the State of New York, and is the son of Stephen M. and Mary (Hunt) Dutcher, natives of the same State, father of (lerman ancestry, and mother of English, (reorge received his education in the common schools of this county, whither he emigrated in 1844 or 1846. In 1873 he married Sarah A. Morey, and they have had one child, Stephen A., born Dec. 25, 1875. Mr. Dutcher has taught school 7 or 8 terms in this county, and as a farmer he has been successful, now owning 160 acres of land. He is a Republican, and a member of the Christian Church.

P. H. Davis, New Canton, was born in Fountain county, Ind., in 1826, and is the son of Robert and Amanda (Blair) Davis, the former a native of Kentucky, and mother of Indiana, and of Scotch descent ; was brought to this county in 1829, settling in Kinderhook, where he received his education. In 1851 he married Eliza Shipman, and of their 5 children but two are living. The same year he moved to New Canton, where he engaged in mercantile "business until 1862, when he was elected Sheriti"; serving two years in that office he resumed his mercantile business until 1878, when he sold out. Mr. Davis has also pleaded law to some extent, with success. In j)olitics he is a Democrat. He has seen tiiis county in its primitive wild state, with deer, wolves, etc., in abundance.

William A. Davis, New Canton, was born in Marietta, Washington Co., Ohio, in 1820, the son of Stephen and Patience (Springer) Davis, natives of Maine. Of his 6 children 5 are living, and all married but one; 4 reside in this county, and one in Car- roll county, Mo. M<)St of his life Mr. Davis has followed the river; pilote<l a llat-hoat for '20 yeari>, and has traveled 4,0U0 miles. In his younjjer days he worked ti years at the airponter's trade, and works at it s^'iin' yet. He owns 4^ acres of land, liesides a house and lot. In politics he is a Deniocrat.

Jaiii'S h'/nerson, farmer, sec. S; P. ()., New Catiton; was horn Dec. 21, 1^86, in Ohio, and is the son of Ephraim ami Kli/.aheth rWallaer) Kmerson, father a native «»f Maryland, and mother of Ohit>, ami of (terman dcM-ent; wius hroughl to this ctmnty in Is.'iS by his parents in emigration, and here received his education in the common school. March 10, i.s59, he nn»rried Lydia Yearly, and their 3 children are all livint;. lie owns «iO acres of land, and in ]*olitict; is a Kcpultlican.

Ci'ci'ro Ga/il, farmer, sec. 10; P. ()., New Canton ; was horn in Barry tp., this county, in 183<>, and is the son of M. and CMarissa (liaker) (ianl, father a native of Virginia, and of Kn^lish and Irish drsci'iit, and mother a native of Ohio, and of Kn;;li>h descent; educated at Knox College, Cialeshur^, HI. Oct. 2IJ, 1**»>0, he married Lydia IlalstCH*!, and «»f their 4 children 2 are living;. He owns SO acres of lan<l, and as a farmer he has l>cen successful. In jMjlitics he is a IJepuhlicai:.

htrenzo (Jmii, farmer, brother of the prece<lin;;, was born in Washin^t«in county, O., April 15, ISlS; was eduwited mostly ii» the common schools of this county; iii- 1841 he taught school f] m«»nths. In 1S43 he married Mar;:;iret Yearly, and of their 7 chilli ren T) are living, one single. 'and all livin;; in this «v»unty, Mr (lard came to Pike counlv in \s',\\ mid seltle<l near New Carjton, whoro he still lives. When iiis fatjier came hero he had only Of cents in money, but now he has 300 acres of lan«i. Mr. Gard has seen this country in its wild state, and has e.\p<'ri«'nced the ]>overty and hardships of piitneer times. In |>olitics he is a Republican.

Seth Oartl. Prominent amon^the business men of New Canton, is the subject of this sketch. Mr. Seth Gard, who was born in this cotinty in 1*n32, and although conjparatively a youn^ man he \h classed amonu the earlv inhabitants <»f Pike count v; i- the st»n of Ilobert and Martha ^^Putnami (iard, natives of Ohio. In 1870 Mr. G. was united in marriage with Miss Kllen Phillipr-, who is a mem- >>er of the M. E. Church. Mr. (iard starte«l in lite without much of this World's ijoods, or. as the savin;; is, "bare-handed;" he tirst worked by the month on a farm, but at present is the lV»stmii8ter at New Canton, and keeps a ;;roccry store, etc. Asa business man he is prompt, obligin*^, and enjoys a fair sh:ire of the trade of the place; ho is a Republican in politics, and has been Postmaster at New (Canton since 1873.

Eugene Gray is u native of this county, and was born in 1S29; his parents were Thomas T. and Mary F, (Crandall) Gray, natives of New York, who came to Pike coujity the year of his birth. Our subject has sj)ent the most of his life in mercantile pursuits ; he first be;jan to clerk in the store of Mowrv & Maseie at New Can- ton, and since 1872 has been a full ])artner witli Mr. M. D. ^lassie, and as a tirni they have met with success. In 1SC2 he enlisted in the 68th 111. Inf., and the following year entered the 28th 111. Inf., and was mustered out in 1S60. Durin*:; the last year of the service he was (Quartermaster Sergeant, and j)ri(»r to that he was most of the time on detached duty as Clerk. Politically Mr. G. is a Republican, is a member of the Town Board of New Canton, and Treasurer of Pleasant Vale tji. Mr. (t. was married in 1808 to Lydia Ware, who is a member of the I^aptist (Jhureh.

T. A. ILii/den, faiiiier, sec. 8; P. O., JS'ew Canton ; is the son of J. and Elizabeth (Barnard) Ilayden, and was born in Missouri in 1844; his father, who was of Irish ancestry, and also his mother, who was of English descent, were born in that State. He received his education in the common schools of his native State, and for a time engaged in teaching. He came to Pike county in 1878, and embarked in farming; in 1869 he was married to Clara E. Freeman, who has borne him *J children, 3 of whom are living.

E.'K. riigbee, farmer, sec. 20; P. O., New Canton; was born in Adams county. 111., April 6, 1839; his parents, Elias and Sarah (Ward) Iligbee, were natives of Ohio; he received his education in the common schools and the Griggsville high school. He formerly engaged in the mercantile business at Detroit and 4 years in Missouri, and in 1875 came to this tj)., where he is farming 3 (quarters of land. In 1864 he was united in marriage with Mana L. Peebles, who is a member of the Church. Politically Mr. H. is a Democrat.

John B. Il'dl^ farmer, sec. 19; P. ()., New Canton. The parents of our subject, Isaac W. and Tal)itlia Hill, were both natives of Franklin county, Va., and of Irish ancestry. John B, was born in Tennessee in 1824, received his early education in tlie common schools of Scott county, ill., whither his parents had moved, and .was married to liis first wife, Emily A. Smithson, in 1843; she died in 1844, and the following year he was married to Millie E. Taylor, and they have 12 children, 10 of whom are living, 7 boj's and 3 girls. Mr. II. came to Pike county in 1866 and engaged in farming.

L. G. Ilosford, deceased, was born in the State of New York, Jan. 15, 1811, and obtained his education in the public schools of that State. His early occupation was that of carpenter and millwright. He emigrated to this county in 1842, and he has built several mills in this county; he followed mining in California 3 years, between 1850 and 1854. Dec. 19, 1844, he married A[ary Smith, and of their 6 children 3 are living; one daughter is married to Andrew Cruse. Mr. H. died Xov. 18, 1S74, the owner of a steam saw-mill, house and lot, and 700 acres of land; at one time during life he owned 1,200 acres. Politically he was a Democrat. Mrs. Hosford, who is a member of the Dunkard Church, is keeping a first-class boarding-house in New Canton, in company with her dauirhter.

OeorgeW. Ilonney raiincr, sec. 2:i, 5 S., W.: 1*. ()., New Caiitt»ii ; was born in Ohio in 182-S, the so!\ of Willanl and Dchorali (Emerson) House, natives of Man lantl, father of (lennan and Irish descent and mother of (Jerman and Scotch; was educated in the common s(dn)ols (tf Oliio. In IS'iIilie marrii-tl Frances Jaiu' Carter, and they have ha<l «; childreju 5 of \vh<»m are liviuj;. Mrs. House <lied Sept. 15, 1875, He canie tt> Pike county in ls44, and now owns 178 acres of land. He worked hy tlie month until he «^ot a start. Has Worked some at earitenterinLT. S|u'nt one yi'ar in Arkansas and Mississippi. In ptdities Mr. II. is a Kepuhlican.

James S. Jlyli, farmer, New ('anton.was horn in tins county in 1844, and is the son of .1. I', and Klixa (Seeley) Hyde; educated in the Pittbtiehl hi^li school; hy orcujiation is a farmer; in 1878 he nnirried Kachel Smith, and tliey luive one chihl, Mary K. He owns 320 acres of hind, nnd ft>r the hist IM months he has ke|)t a livery stable in New Canton. He has just buu<;ht the ri^ht for the State, to sell the patent Uand cutter, to cut hands (»f the sheaves of ;;niin tt»r threshing-machines. He is now intnxlucinj; it, find it gives entire satisfaction, it bein^ superior t(» the ohl method of cutting with knives, which was always a dangerous process. Where this cutter is u.seil the feeder can safely reach for the bufidles without havinif to look up everv time to dod^i* a knife.

F. J. J'lrkson. farmer; 1*. ()., New Canton; was born in Kenlucky in 1815, and is the son of Vincent and Jane (Shearer) Jackeon, father from Marylatul and of Kni^lish descent, and mother from IVnnsvlvania and t»f Irish descent. His father havin<r died when he was but -! years idd, he was brought up by a kind stejtfather, .Mr. Henry Parker; his educatitm was obtained by attending school ',\ months a year in the old-fashioned lo^ school-house. In ls:V.» he married I/>uisa Ferry, and of their 7 chihlren 2 are living, both married and living in tins county. He was brought to this county in 1S25, the family settling on sec. 21. this tp. He was in the lilack Hawk war uiuler Capt. Petty. As a farmer he has been successful. He is a Republican and a grarjijer, and has l>een Commissioner of Highways, Road ( >verseer aiul School Director.

Ji ben Jordan, fariiH-r, sec. 27; P. ()., Cincinnati; was born in Maine in 1833, and is the son of Richard and Sarah (Dotty) Jordan, natives also of Maine; was ethicated in the ])\iblic schools of his native State. In 1*^4> he married Mary Wheeler, and of the 9 children born to them ^ are living, boys and 2 girls. He came to Pike county in 1877, from Portland. Me. Mr. Jordan, althoujrh of a literary turn of mind, is a hard-working, energetic laborer on his farm, where he is doing well. In politics he is a Democrat.

John Judd, railroad section overseer. New Canton, was born in Germany in 1834, the son of Frank Judd; came to America in 1845 and to this county in 1851; lived at Cincinnati Landing 3 vears, then carae to New Canton, where in 1861 he married Jane

Saxbury, and they have had 3 children. Mrs. J. is a (hia^'hter of early pioneers of this county, her ])arents beinfij the first couple married after the county-seat was moved to IMttsfield. Her mother carried the banner at the old settlers' meetiiiiijin 187!>, but died the same year. Mr. Judd's early life was spent in a tobacco factory. Since 1873 he has been in the employ of the C, 13. & Q. \i. K. Has never l\ad any accident iiappen on his part of the road. Mrs. J. is a member of the Presbyterian Church.

Chivies A. Kendall, formerly school-teacher, now farmer, sec. 13; P. O., Xew Canton; was born in Ohio in 1833, and is the son of Richard and Ann (Brown) Kendall, natives of New Jersey; obtained liis education most!}' by liis own exertions outside the school-room; has i>:one to scliool but 2 months since he was 10 years of age, but his scholarship entitles him to a first-grade certificate to teach; has taught school 20 years. In 1860 he married Eveline Fesler, and of their 8 children 6 are living. In 1852 he came from St. Louis, Mo., to this county, on the steamer " CTolden Era," and first settled at Eldara. He owns 140 acres of land, and has been farming since 1862.

H. H. Kieller, jr., station agent,New Canton, was born in Perry this county, Feb. 10, 1855, and is the son of II. H. K(i?ller, sr., the patentee of '- Koeller's Corn-Planter." The latter mentioned and his wife emigrated from Germany to this country in ls4,s, stopping at first with his brother-in-law, Mr, Thiele, at Perry. Observing the method then in vogue of planting corn with hoes, he set to work inventing a machine to do the work better; he succeeded, and commenced the manufacture of the planters at Perry on a small scale which was greatly enlarged, an extensive establishment being put up and run at Camp Point, where Mr. Ka3ller was general superintendent; but the com]iany there becoming insolvent, Mr. K. went into other business at St. Louis, Mo., and Leadville, Col., which was more remunerative. Mr. Koeller, jr., spent the greater part of his boyhood with his uncle, Mr. Thiele, his mother having died when he was an infant; he afterward joined his father at Camp Point, where he received his education in the Maplewood High Scliool, and later at the Gem City Business College, Quincy, III. Keturning to Camp Point he entered the service of the company as traveling salesman; in 2 years he was aj^pointed assistant secretary, which ])osition he filled until the company became insolvent ; he then entered the grain and agricultural imj»lement trade at Carthage, 111., in which business, however, he did not do well ; lie then came to New Canton and took his present place. July 15, 1877, he married Mary Ziegler, of Cam]» Point, and they have a son, Walter II.

Dr. John S- Lochioood was born in Kent county, Del., Jan. 10, 1840, and is the son of John and Ann (Slay) Lockwood, of English descent. Until 17 vears of aire the subiect of this sketch spent his time on the farm, in store and at school; graduated in the scientific and classical courses at Fairfield Seminarv, New

^'ork; thou visited Afissonri, tancflit school 2 months in Adams county. 111.; returned to New ^ nrk and sjuMit si winter studying at Schenectady; on account of declininj; health he ahandoned the collc<^iate course and returned to Delaware, where he entered mercantile business, which ho fnllnwed 2 years; ctinunencod as salesman in a wholesale establishment in Philadelphia, but not likini^ the business he iMjf^an the study of medicine with Dr. Paine, in the Eclectic Medical (.'olle^e it) that city; traveled East and West in search of a medical culloijo in which to complete his studios, Bettlin<; on the Keokuk Col h'^e; havini; spent nearly all his means travelintj, i»e confined his eating to dry bread and beans duriniij the first term of study; in the summer of IsOo he «jradiuited with honor, but n(»t having the moans to comnionco practice, ho went into Atlams county. III., and worked on a farm until fall, and during the winter taught the Cliola scluKd; then entered partnership with Dr. John Torrence at Quincy in the practice of his profession; in the fall of Ibt'iCi he came to New (Canton, whore ho has since rosideil. In ISTU ho wont to St. Louis, Now York and Philadelphia to attend medicjil loctun-s, and in the sprinj; of 1^T4 <xraduate<l at the Jefferson Medical ('ollefje, Philailolphia, and the Missouri Mo<lic4il ( 'ollo;;e at St. Louis. Iji December of that voar he marrit'd Miss Ella, dau<:hter i>f Ebofi ('laus«m, a T)i<»noer in this section, and wh(» has been Supervisor two terms, and has hohi other important town ofHcos. The I)octt>r has l>een very successful as a physician, and moderately so financially. He owns several houses an<l h»ts in Is'ow Canton, is entirely free from debt, and has money at interest. In ptditics he is a Doniocrat, and in relifjion a freethinker, as almost all doctors are. but is liberal toward all sects and parties. What he has accumulated in property has all been by ins own nnai<led exertions.

Ciipt. J/. J). 2IiiA/tle, of New Canton, was born in Pittsfiold, this county. Jan. 21, 183s, and is the son of John (t. and Mary (Shaw) Massie, the former a native of Kentucky, the latter of Now York; parents wore married in Dorry tj».. in ls37. ^Ir. ^L's boyhood was passed in Pike county. Mo., and Pike county. III.; received a common-school education, and was ontja^ed as clerk and book- keeper until 1S(J2, when he enlisted as a private in the Pike county regiment, 99th III. Inf , and served 3 years; was promoted Captain, and also acted as Adjutant; was in all the battles of the Koiriment save one. After the war he enj'ai'od in mercantile business at New Canton, dealinor jn a (general assortment of goods, and also runniiiij a mill; has been in the business now for 15 years, with success. In 18t)») ho married Mary E. Morey, and they have had 3 children - all now living. In 1^72 ho was elected a member of the '2>th General Assembly, and at the close of his term was offered a re-election, but refused on account of declining health. We give Mr. Massie's ])ortrait in this volume.

and 7 months. In i^7:2 he niiirried M;uv Kully, daughter of Nathan Kell3-,an(l tliey luid 2 dan»;htero,and 1 sou. Mr. Mc. F. held responsible public positions, followed clerking awhile, and farniins^ for a portion of his life. At the time of his death he owned 347^ acres of land, besides property in town. He was successful in whatever he undertook. Mrs. Mc. F. resides on sec. 27; P. O., New Canton.

W'dliain. II. Odlorne^ merchant, Cincinnati, was born in Pike county. 111., in lS4r>, and is the son of Eben and Ann iWin<^ert) Odiorne, father a native of Massachusetts and mother <.'f Ohio ; received his education at Rockport, 111., and at Jones Commercial College at St. Louis, Mo., at which latter place he graduated in 1804. In 187(5 he nuirried Addie C. Hendricks, and their only child, Elmer, died when one year old. Mr. (J. has been in mercantile business the most of his life, and been successful. He Came to Cincinnati in 1876, wliere he is Postmaster and ticket agent, and has been School Treasurer several terms. In politics he is a Ilej)ublican.

Samuel Pfr'nnme)\ New Canton, was born in Harrison county, Ind., Jan. 10, 1S37, and is the son of John George and Sarah (Friedly) Pfrimmer, father a native of Pennsylvania and of German and French descent, and mother a native of Indiana and of English descent. Has attended school but three months in his life. March 15, 1808, he married Kate Mosier, and they have had 2 sons, George, born Jan. 15, 1869, and Charles, born ^larch 9, 1870. Mr. P. came to this county in 1844, settling on sec. 23, 5 s., 7 w., this tp. Has been a farmer most of his life, and has followed flat-boating some. He now owns 158 acres of land. He is a Democrat, and has been School Director 3 years; has had charge of the light-house one mile above the lauding at Cincinnati, this i tp. In 1801 lie enlisTed in Compan}- I, 28th 111. Inf., under Capt. Hurt, and was discharged in 1804; was in all the battles of the Regiment.

Alextinder K. Ross, farmer, sec. 22; P. O., New Canton; was born in Pennsylvania in 1838, and is the son of John and Elizabeth (McDaniel) Ross, natives of Pennsylvania and of Scotch ancestry; obtained his education in the ])ublic schools of his native State; emigrated to this county in 1800; in 1802 he eidisted in Co. E, 78th 111. Inf., and was discharged in July, ls05, having been in all the battles of the Regiment but one; was 3d Sergeant. In 1878 he married Malvina IJrewster. He owns 100 acres o land. In politics is a Re])ul>lican.

Nathaniel Shearer^ farmer, sec. lO; P. O., New Canton; was born in this county Dec. 2«», 1839, and is the son of Andrew and Harriet (Parker) Shearer, the former of Irish descent and born in 1800, and the latter of (Terman descent and born in 1800; they came to this county in 1822, settling on the present homestead. Mr. S. died May 13. 1S53, and Mrs S. resides with her st»n. Nathaniel was educated in the asylum for the deaf and dumb at Jack- sonvillc, III. lie U a fanner, now owning five shares in 80 acres ot" land, which property he lias earned \>y his own exertions. Scjit. 23, 1S«)S. he wa»; married at Uriirhton, 111., to Miss Kt'lurca I'orrv, by whom he ha.s iiail 3 children, Lnther, Kllen and Kddie li. Mr. and Mrs. S. arc deaf and dnjnh. Her father is a carpenter at Brighton, and slie has one brother and two sisters wiio are also deal and dninh. < >ne sister married .lames W, Walker and resides in Dakota, Stephenson county. 111., and one si>ter is matron »»f the Stiite Asyhiin for the Deaf an<l Dumb at Jacksonville. Her brother is a t«dmcco dealer at Brighton.

Alimz/) S/t^-Wt^ New ('anton, was born in Wa>hiiii;ton connty, O., in 1^4S, and is the son of Solomon ami Kllen (Willis) Shewe; liis father was b«»rn in Pennsylvania and of (Jerman desc-t-nt, and his mother was lM>rn in Vir;^iniaami of Irish descent; he was educated in the ptiblic schools in this connty. In isiiO he married Mi^s K. (fillan.and they have 3 ehihlren. Mr. S. has rnn a tlireshint: machine ever since lie was II* years of a:;e; at present he nses a steam thresher and a steam wooil saw; can siiw 10 to 12 cords of wood in 10 hours. He also ran the first patent band-cutter ever iiHeil in this State. In politics lie is a Democrat.

»S. y*. S/i^ire^ sec. 17; 1*. O., New Canton; was born in Ohio in l(<2o and is the son of Martin and I/<'«»ini (Dunbar) Shewe, the former a mitivo of Ohio and of (ferman descent, and the latter of \ ir^^inia ; was e«lucatod in the public schools «if his nativ<' State. Hi.- tir.-t marriage was to ('aroline .\tkin-"»n. by whom he had 4 children, only 1 now livinjj; his second njarria;^e was to Sarah Bau^hman. Mr. Shewe came to I*ike county in 1844, ancj has lired in tiie county ever since. When lie first came here he hail but 75 cents, but is now worth at least $2.<>(»0 ; has made all he «.»wns by hoiioHt lal>or; jMditioilly he is a Democrat,

J,t/in W. Smit/i, farmer, sec. 6; P. O., Hannibal, Mo.; was born in Pennsylvania in 1844, being the son of Henry and Mary ((/lair) Smith, natives of Penn^ylvania and of German descent ; wa.s educate«l iti the public schools of Adams county. III. In \*^M he married Hatlie Breslar, and tliey have had 4 children. He came to Pike county in 1^08, and now is on a farm of 120 acres. He is a Democrat.

./. ir. Stepheusou, Cincinnati, was born in Kentucky May 20, 181G. the son of James and Mar;,Mret (Clititon) Steplienson, natives of the sunny South and of Irish descent ; was brought to this State by his parents in 181U; June C, 1*^41, he married Mary Kliza Allen, and -'. <tf their children are living. In ls»H Mr. S. enlistetl in Co. E, 27tli 111. Inf., and was wagon master of the Ilegiment. Mr. S. seems to like frontier life, as he ha-s followed close after the Indians in three States; but he is a «juiet, unassuming man. In j)olitics he is a Republican, and in religion he is a Presbyterian. His wife, who was also a Pre>bvtcrian. died ^larch 6, 1«80.

Amos Sioui, fiivmev, i^ec. 7; I'. ()., IIiimiil)al, Mo.; was born in Butler county, O., in 1S34, and is the son of Ijel and Julia (Briant) Stout, natives of Ohio, and of German descent; received his education in tlie ])ul)lic schools of Ohio; came to Pike county in 1*51 ; was married in 1856 to Miss Kate llall, and they have 4 children living. "Mr. Stitut is a farmer, occupying 500 acres of land, and has great promise of success; he had nothing to start with. Politically he is a Republican.

Nicholas Stum}), farmer; P. O.. Cincinnati; was born in Ohio, in 1839, the son of George and Mary (Risher) Stumj), natives of Pennsylvania and of German descent; received liis education in the public schools of Iowa, principally in Independence. In 1860 he married Ann J. Smith, and tiiey have had 4 children. In Iowa Mr. S. was in the mercantile business 3 years. He came to Pike county in 1875, since which time he has been farming and keeping the warehouse at Cincinnati Landing; has been successful in his business. Has l)een School Director, and politicall}' he is a Democrat. Mr. S. is a member of the Presbyterian Church.

Isaac Tamsett, shoemaker and cutter, iS'ew Canton, was born in England in 1815, and is the son of Isaac and Elizabeth (Goodman) Tamsett; f?ther was commander of revenue in England. The subject of this notice obtained his education in the mother land. In 1836 he married Sarah Smith, and they have had two sons, both married, one living in this county and the other in Missouri. Mr. T. came to America in 1846, landing at New Orleans, in 1849 to Pittsfield, and in 186 1 to New Canton, lie has traveled a great deal, and has worked at his trade in England, France, Belgium anil this country, besides visiting Ireland, Wales and the West Indies; once suffered shipwreck. ]\lr. T. is an interestingconverser, havingseena great deal of this world. Politically he is a Democrat, and his wife is a member of the Baptist Church.

George Tlplei\ farmer; P. O., Barry; was born in England, at Eckington, Lincolnshire; he is a son of George and Sarah Ann (Baten) Tipler; although he never attended school he can read and write, and he has a very retentive memory; in the old country he was a shepherd boy, but since he has been in this country he has followed farming, and is a horse and cattle doctor. He came to America in 1853, settling the same year at New Canton. At first he worked by the month at $18 per month, and his wife taught school. Iler maiden name was Ann Buniiin<r, and they were married in 1846, June 11. Mr. T. now owns 207 acres of good land. In religion he is a LatterDay Saint, and in politics he votes for the best man.

Franklin Tittsworth, farmer, sec. 15; was born Jan. 12, 1826, in Tennessee; was brought to this county in the spring of 1831; went to California in 1840 and returned in ls52; June 9, 1853, he married ^liss Adeline Browning. Children: Thomas, (Jharles, Albert, Mrram, Elmer, Franklin, Frederic, and two deceased, Jessie and an infant. Mr. T. owns 480 acres of land, worth $40 j)er acre.

Bnuiford U pp'nujhonsey juiller. New Canton; was horn in Jackson enmity. Intl., in 1S2<>, and is the soti of , lames and Melinda (lleinl^l I' j>|iin;;hoMse, natives of I'ennsylvania, lather ot" German and mot^her of Scottish descent; obtained Ins edncation in the common schools of his native State. In 1S47 he married Christina (Mark, and their G children are all liviii;;. lie arrival in Pike county June S, lS»'.o, and luis heen \\\ New Canton mo>t of the time since. Politically he is a Ilejinhlican.

Jdnicfi Wdlhict', farmer, sec. 28; P. ()., New Canton; was born in Ohio in 181(j, and is the son of John ami Cathariiu- (Straira); father a native of Virjjinia and Se4)ttish descent, mother horn in Pennsylvania and «»f (ieiman ancestry. Nathaniel Wallace, a jjrandfather of .lames, was a Scotchman and a aiptain under Lord Cornwallis. .lames received his education in the common sch(»ols of Ohio; he tnnrried Sarah .\nn Placklidj;e in 1S3«»; of their 12 children .'> are livin;,','all married, and residing in this county. Mr, Wallace's early occupation was that uf a stone-ma«on. hut has heen farmiii': the most of his life, in which business he has well sueceeded, and now owns 24<> acres of land; he first settled on sec. 24 in this tj»., but is now on sec. 2S. lie has taken 10 de^^rees in Mas(»nry. P(»litically he is a Democrat, Jle has Injen Supervisor 9 years. Road Commissioner 6 years. School Trustee 4 years, and is now Schoil Director. Mrs. W. is a member of the M. K. Church.

Janifs Whfflan, blacksmith, sec. 1; P.O.. New Canton; was l)orn in Irelmid in 183»», and is the son of Richard and Mary ^^Scully) Wheehin; cnnie to America in 1848; received his education in the public schools of St. I><»uis, Mo.; came to Pike county in lSo5, settling in New Canton; in 18.'>6 he married Isabella Brown, and they had 7 children; she died in 1873; in ls77 Mr. W. married Klizal>eth Brown, a cousin of his first wife. He also carries on farnn'np. owning IGO acres of land; hislnuiseon the farm ct»st $2,<HK). He has l>een successful in both businesses. In ])olitics he is a Democrat, and keeps well posted.

Tliis township lies direct!}^ west of Barry and north <>t" Pleasant Vale, and consists largely of Mississippi bottom land, which is the most fertile land in Illinois. Our description of the land as given in the sketch of Pleasant Vale township will apply as well to Kinderhook. The tirst settlers of this township were David Cole, Bird Brewer, Mr. Lyle, Amasa Shinn, Mr. McCraney, James Hnll, Charles Smith, Charles and James Stratton, C. Devoll, Thomas Orr and others. Mr. McCraney made improvements in the center of the township on the creek which has since borne his name.

Great credit is due these pioneers for their untiring elforts in settling and improving this countr3^ Indians were numerous here then, and the wild animals roamed at will over this then wild country. The settlers had to go to Bear creek, above Quiiic}', to have tiieir milling done. There was a corn-mill run by oxen on Hadley creek two miles above Kinderhook, owned by "W. M. Blair, which proved a great convenience. These early pilgrims tirst lived in log cal)ins, with stick chimneys, ])unclieon floors, clapboard doors fastened together by wooden pins, and with only a single four-light window. ]Mr. Thomas Hull first lived in a house with no window at all. The family would build a large fire and leave the door open. On one occasion the Indians came to the house of Mr. Hull, when Mrs. Hull was alone, begging forsomething to eat. Mrs. H., however, could not understand them and would not let them into the house. They pointed to some pumpkins, signifying their desire to have some of them. Of these she willingly gave them as many as they could carry.

Mr. Orr tells us that he has killed manv a deer and wolf in his neighborhood. He saw at one time as many as seven deer in one herd. The wolves were very troublesome and would frequently run the sheep to the house during the day-time ; and at night, Mr. Orr states, they had to corral the sheep at one end of the house.

In the pioneer daj's boys very frequently met with encounters before which the modern boy would quail. In a very e-arly day Wm. J. Talbert. of this township, and his brother Basil were sent some distance from home on an errand. As usual, they took their dog and gun (for these were necessary companions in those days), and started on their jDurney through the wild country. When near the Snv, in the Mississijmi valley, they encountered a huge buck, with immense antlers; and although a boy, William could not reiSJ4 HISTORV OF PIKE COCNTV.

sist the temptatiuii of briiigiii<^ down buch fine gHine. IK* shot him, but fiucceedud only in breaking one of liis legs. Let<t the deer eliuuM hobble oti* bevtMul reach and l)e lost, he iintnediately rushed forward and cjiuj^ht iiitn by the horns. His faithtuldug soon eauie to his assistance and laiil hold of one of the deer's ears. In this way all three tussled around and around for some time, neither being able to gain much advantage. At last William took out his old knife, which had no back spring, and atteinpti'd to cut the deer's throat, using his fingt-rs as a spring to support the blade. In this attenii»t, Ijowever, he failed, lie then opened the little blade, plunged it into the deer and it broke otf. . lie ag.iin returned to the use of the big blade, using his fingers for a back. spring, as before. All this lime the deer kept tussling and bleeding, while the faithful <lt.)g kept tugging away at his ear. Ha-il st<Kxi a few rods away, calling with all his might U> )iis br«>ther to come away, fearful that the ileer wouM kill him. William soon got astride the deer's shoulders and faithfully jabl)od away with his old, backless knife, and, with the a^sislHiice of the dog, he finally succeeiJe<l in killing the deer. But this was not all. It' they left tlieir game there the wolves would soon devour it, and it was too heavy for them to earry ; and so the

The town of Kinderh»mk waa founded in 1^36 by Cheater Churchill and Uriiige Wiiitten. Tlie first settler in the t^iwn waa Peter IIar|>er. The first store wa« kept by Mr. Churchill. The village now contains several stores, ' ' iiith shops, a flour mill, and other induslri< - It also has a ^... .v.; school and two church edifices K>cale<i h. r. Manv of the earlv pioneers of Kinderhook have passeil away, and it is with difficulty that it« earlier history is obtainetl. We acknowledge our indebte«lnes8 to Samuel Clark and others for valiial>Ie inforujatioii received from this neighborhood.

Kluderltunk Exchanyd J/i7i*. - This estaidi»hment wa.s erected in 1871 by Blain & Steers, who operated it for about four years. It then fell into the hands of f^lijah Mc.Vtee and Dr. Penick. This firm sold out in 1^77 t.. E. H. llyde and C. C. Colvin, who operated it aluml two yearn, when they sold it to J. C. Colvin, who a few months later took Wm. Fantz as a partner. They run four sets of burrs, and do a large business. They make an^ excellent quality of flour, which meets with a ready sale in the Xew \ ork markets.

inana«renient of Prof. Elkanah Sellers, who conducts the school on tlie hitest Normal ])lan. The recitations of the B. class in <^eoi^raphy are «jiven in writing by the entire class upon the blackboard. This work is examined the followini; moriiini; and criticised, the pupils i;enerally manitestiiii; threat interest in their studies. The school buildint^ is a large two-stor}' brick structure, and contains three rooms.

Klnderhook Baptist Church. - This society was orcjanized Jan. 28, 1850, at the house of David DevoK by Elder X. Kinne. Mr. Kinne was chosen Chairman, and Mr. Devol Clerk, of this meeting. He was then elected permanent Clerk, and shortly afterward S. Sprague and S. B. Gaines were chosen Deacons. Rev. Wm. Cleveland was called as their first Pastor. The congregation erected a house of worship in ls64, which was dedicated in October, Ls65, by Elder X. Kinne. The present membership is 200. The Church has sustained a Sunday-school ever since it was organized.

Akei's M. E. Chxwch. - This Church was organized over 40 year* ago, and although we worked assiduously to obtain its history, as well as that of the other M. E. Church, we fail to receive very much satisfactory information. The present church editice of the Akers Society, which was the second one erected, was built in 1868-9. It is constructed of brick, and cost about 1^5,500.

This town is located on sec. 21, and at the junction of the Wabash and the Quincy, Alton & St. Louis Railroads. It was laid out in December, 1871, by David Hull, Rensellaer Sweet and William Bridge. It is situated in the midst of one of the finest agricultural districts in the county, and has promise of making a nice local town.

James B. Allen, druggist, was born in South Carolina, March 18, 1824, and is a son of Josiah Allen, deceased. He came to Pike count}' in 1850, and pursued the mason's trade until 1874, when he engaged in his present business. He is engaged in general merchandising and carries a stock of S4,000, consisting of a full line of drugs, groceries, boots and shoes, (jueensware, and occupies a twostory brick block, which he erected in 1876 at a cost of about $4,000. Mr. Allen did the mason work on the Barry high-school buildino;. In 1852 he married Sarah, daughter of the late Judge Alfred Grubb, of this county. Mrs. Allen was bt>rn in Kentucky, April 2, 182b. Mr. and Mrs. Allen hnve 5 children, - Alfred, Mary E., Edward C, Bessie and Fannie.

Alexander Anderson was born in Reading, Berks county. Pa., and is a son of Edward Anderson, deceased, who came to this county in 1845. Ale.x. came with his father and engaged with him ill tliu mercantile husinese in Kinderhuok until the death of the latter, wiiich occiirred in 1848. Mr. Aiulersuu then en-^aj^eil in farniiiif; until isT'^; then formed a jiartnershij) with Frank Ester- ^ren, hut in 1"^79 the tirm dissolved, and .Mr. A. went into hu8ine86 fur himself, lie now carriei» a general stock of hardware, furniture, etc., and also ha^ a harness shop attached and does a i^ood husiness. In 1847 he married Anice Hull, daiii^hter <»f James II nil, deceased, an early pioneer of thi> county. -Mr. antl .Mrs. Anderson have had 9 chihlren, of whom 0 are living;, - Kli/.aUeth, Kdward, Markf, James, Charles ami Alexander.

Clement V. Ai/h'^irurth was Uirn in New York in 1848, lived there until he was 5 years old, then nioved with his parents to i*ikc county. 111., an«l remained there until l8«;i; then moveil to Wisconsin and remaine<l there until 1870, then returned to this count}'. Jan. '2r>, 1871, he married Sarah Z. Duttun of this county. Their 2 children are KIbcrt and Myrtie; they are Ixilh memlK»rsof the M. E. Church. He i." enu'a;;ed in hutcherin^. also carries on the confot'tionery husiness. He owns a dwelling house and two lots in KinderluMik, and is an enterprising, industrious husiness man and a j^iKxl citizen. In politics he is a liepuhlican.

Edmuti'l T. liridge waa horn in Augusta county, \'a., Dec. 15, 1837. His father letl Augusta county and move<l to Lewis county in 18-17, and in 1853 moved to Fayette county, Oil iu, and after living there one year. move«i to Hancock countv. III., and when there enlisted in the ll'Jth Keg. of III. Vol., ami remained until Aug., lSr»5, and since tiien lias l)een living in this tp. Feh. 14, 1867, lie married Marv A. Sweet, and tiieir children are 2 hoys and 1 girl. Himself an«I wife are memhers of the I>aptist Church. Mr. B. folK»wed tarming until 1>72, and since then has l>een engage<i in merchandising at HulTs Station, and is an enterprising business man, and in {xditics is a liepuhlican. lleowns 50 acres of lanti, three house.-* and three lots, and a dry-goods store.

MiK. M<iry f/KMf, farmer, sea-^. 33 and 3«»; was hurn in Pennsylvania in 1>21, and lived witli her parents until she was 10 years old. They moved to Ohio and remained tliere until 1844, then to Indiana, and lived there 2 years, tlien came to this county, where she ^vi^ iikTiol X tv. 1), is^l. to Alonzo Chase. Their children were, Daniel, William Lanson, Samantha, Sarah Frances. Alice Melvina and Isadora. She owns 134 acres of land, and is a Democrat.

A. S. Churchill came to tliis countv in 1833, when but 19 years of ao^e. He traveled the entire distance from Batavia in a onehorse bucro^y in one montli and 15 days. Arrived in this tp. the 15tli of Oct., and joined liis father and brother, who had ]>receded liim. In the sprinti;of 1834 he returned to New York and, Oct. 20, 1835, married Mary A. Hunn, dauij^hter of Samuel Ilunn, deceased. Mrs. C is a native of Hartford, Conn., and was born March S, 1S14. They have had 7 children, 4 of whom are livini:^, - James A., \\\\\. E., Hiram S. and Xancy M. They removed here in 1830, and Mr. C. kept hotel until the railroads were built. AVhen he arrived in this tp. he had $250, a team, a wife and one child. Now he is comfortablv situated and has jjiven his children each a larwe farm. The tirst land he bought here he secured bv irivinof a cloth coat for his claim on the land. He went to Whipple's n)ill for flour, a distance of 23 miles.

William E. Churchill was born Ma}' 2, 1847, in Barry tp., and is a son of the preceding; he resides on sec. 9, this tp., and is engao^ed in farming and stock-raising. He was married March 26, 1868, to Mary Carr, daughter of Solomon Carr, deceased, and they have 4 children, - Charles E., Ora D., Roy S. and Edward C.

Samuel Clarh is a native of Harrison county, Va., and was born Sept. 23, 1820, and is a son of Rev. Samuel Claik, deceased, who removed to this county with his family in 1829. Mr. Clark was raised on a farm and educated in a common school. In 1851 he was married to Emma Shinn, daughter of Isaiah Shinn, deceased, who came to this State in 1867. Mrs. Clark was l)orn Sept. 8, 1831, in Harrison county, Va. They have had 7 children, of whom 6 are living, - Henrietta A., Frances V., Sabra E., Minnie, Cyrus and Florence N. Mr. Clark resides on sec. 3, this tp., and is eufi'aj'ed in farinino- and stock-raisins:.

Alexaiuler Clutch, farmer, sec. 33, was born in Warren county, C, in 1833, and lived there until he was 13 years of age, then moved to Pike county with his parents, who were farmers, and lived with them until he was 21 years old; he then went to ^lacon county and remained 2 years, following farming, then to this State, again locating in McLean county for 14 years; then returned to Pike county and married Christina Fine, who had been previously married, and had one child named Wm. Isaac. Mrs. Clutch died and ^Ir. C. married ^Irs. Elizabeth Halstead, who had 7 children, - Henry R. and Wm, F. Wilson, Drusilla J., Edith ]\I. and Susan Edna. Her children by her tirst husband were Rachel, Ellen, Loraira and Emma. By his first wife ]\Ir. Clutch had 4 children, - Thomas Marlon, Edward Francis, Anna and Clarissa. lie and his wife are Baptists, and politically he is a Democrat. His farm comprises 70 acres.

John Clutch was born ^larch 2'^, 1839, in Warren count3% O., and is a son of David P. and Martha Clutch, deceased, who brought their family to this county in the spring of 1847, landing at Quincy oil the 1st day of April. In 1852 he was married to xVlvira, dauj^liter of Sylvaiius Baker, ileceasetJ, one of the pioneers of this county. Mr. and Mrs. Clutch have had 8 children, of whom 6 are livinij, viz: Warren, Mary K., John, Sarali, Kilen antl Everett. Mr. C. cn^'a^ed in farnjin^ until 187r», when he entered into the ujercantile husiness in Kimleriiook. lie carries a stock of ^.'),000, consisting of dry-goods, hats and caps, boots and shoes, groceries, qucensware, ami everything usually kept \n a first-class mi.xed gtoro. lie al.so deals in agricultural implements. He still owns a farm, and still gives some attention to farming.

S'imuel Colgrove was born in Steuben county, N. V., .luiie 24, lh2*J, and is a son of Andrew and Elizabeth (Smith) C'olgrove, of the same county. Mrs. ('. died in ls71. Samui'l was reared on a farm and had but limitetl opportunities for an education. In ls4:{ he eanio West, traveling thr(»ugh I(»\vft, Minnesota and Northern Illinois; went to I..ake Superior during the silver e.xcitement in l!^4.^; e' 1 in sawijig and rafting lumber to St. L()uis for 4 vears; I:..;, i through Intliami, Ohio and Michigan to some extent. He returned to New York in 1^49, where he remairjed until lbr»G, except what time lie was in the war. Aug. 2, 1851. he married Mary 1*. Marlatt, and move«l to Huron county, ().; in ls«>7 ca»ne to Adams county. 111., and 3 yiars afterward he came into this county, where he resides on sec. 20, faruung and raising stock. He baa had 7 children, viz: ElizaU'th M.. Olive A., Emily L., San)uel A., Ira M., George I), and Lillie M. Mr. C. served in Co, H, 8«)th N. V. Inf., ami hence was in the army of the Potomac. He ]>articipal«tl in the bwond battle of jbill Run; became disabknl in the service, and was discharged Nov. 6,

./. C. Calvin was l>orn in llartfoni county. Conn., Oct. 19, 1823, a son of Timi»thy Colvin, dec.; in 1S54 he came .itid settled in this tp. ; the next year he returne«l to Connecticut and marrie<l Miss Ann M, Andrews, and returnetl to his home here. Of his 5 children Flora, Charlotte and Joseph A. are livirig. .\fter farming for 9 years Mr. Colvin has followed merchandising, trading, milling, etc. He still owns a farm.

Jo/in Cook, farmer, sec. 24, owning 280 acres of land in this tp., was b«>rn in Chatham county, N. C, July 5, 1800; at the age t>t 7 years he came with his parents to Davidson county, Tenn., where in alKMit (\ months his father die<l; his mother then moved to Robinson county uuU\ he was 17 years fd<l, when they moved to Trigg county, Ky., and there, March 20, 1828, he marrie<i Miss Martha Kenne<ly; in 1830 he arrived in Pike county. His children are John K., Mary E., Clarinda Ann and Milly Jane. Mr. C. is a Democrat.

Mi6Tory Of Pike Countt

marrietl Miss Mary K. Smith, and they have one cliiid, Annie K., aged 11. Mr. D. is a Baptist and his wife a Methodist. In politics Mr. D. is a Democrat. He owns 2 houses and lots at Hull's Station.

Mosis Decker was born in Knox county, Ind., Dee. IH, 1^00, son of Moses Decker, who was born in IT^^O in Washinirton county, Pa., and was brought by his ])arents to the Northwestern Territory in 17s5; he was raised in the fort at Vincennes, and when large enough to eai'ry a ^un he went into the war against the Indians; he died in ISO-i. Moses, jr. was raised on a farm in pioneer style; education, likewise, being in the usual ohl-fashioncd log schoolhouse, with a greased deer-skin for a window, and a tire-place for heating the room. In 1827 he married Melinda, daughter of Tarleton Horen. dec. In 18;>5 they came to this county, settling on sec. I, this tp., where he still resides, a farmer and stock-raiser. Of his 11 children these 9 are living: Hannah, Martha, Melinda, Christina, Ezra, Asher, Amry, Margaret and Emery. Mrs. D. died May 25, 1877, an honored member of society.

David Devoid farmer and stock-raiser; was born in Washington county, O., March 20, 1826, the son of Daniel Devol, dec, who was among the tirst born in that county. Mr. D. came to Illinois in 1854, settling in this tp., where he still resides. He has married twice, and is the father of 8 children. He is a descendant of Daniel Devol, who was one of four brothers that emigrated to America from England about 1760. Their names were'Stephen, Daniel, Jonathan and Gilbert.

F rank Estergreii^ dealer in stoves and tin ware, was born in Sweden Nov. 4, 1844; when 20 years of age he emigrated to America; worked at common labor a few months at Fall Brook, Pa.; then was in Minnesota four j'ears in the tin business; then followed the same business one year in Wisconsin; then at Hannibal, Mo., 3 months; then Kinderhook, where he worked as journeyman for 3 or 4 years, then commenced business for himself. In 1874 he married Amanda McPherson. and they Lave 2 children, Joseph Timothy and Nellie Josephine. He and wife are Baptists, and he is a staunch Democrat. Is the owner of his residence and business liouse and lots.

Thomas Fitsjmtrick, hotel-keeper at Kinderhook, was born in 1828, in Butler Co., O.; at the age of years he moved with his parents to Pike county; they were farmers; at 21 he spent 13 months in California; then returned to Pike county and married Miss Emily AVoolum, of this county, and they have 6 children, - Josephine, Laura Ann, Thomas, Charlie, Bartholomew and Eugene. He has been engaged in the hotel business for 16 years, and at other times he has followed farming. He owns his hotel, three other buildings and \\ acres of land. He is a Democrat, and he and his wife are ]\Iethodists.

A. A. (io«t', farmer, stx;, 14, «»wnin^' 152 acres of land, was horn in KintlerluMjk ti*. June 24, ls30, the son of John (iose, deceased, an early pioneer. Oct. 25, 1S«;3, i>o married Klizaheth Jiailey; 4 of their 5 children are living: Aila H., llarrv L., Elbert and Klla Myrtle.

Ihiru'i lllutls, farmer, sec. I'S, was l)orn in iJrown Ijo., ( j., March 6, 1^24, the son of James Hinds, of tiiistp.; was reared on a farm aiul educated in the common schools; removc<l with his parents to Montpjmery Co., Mo., in 1843, and in the following year to this countv. Dec. 31, 1*'49, he married Elizabeth Lomax, a dauirhterof Theoj>hilu> Lomax, de<'eastd, who came to this county in 184S. Mr. an<l .Mrs. Hinds have 3 children, - James, John and Henry. James marrie<l Amanda Gluiison and resides in this tp.; John married Helen Lane and also resides in this tp. ^[r. Iiinds has been a farmer since lie wa> 23 years of age; he owns 415 acres of valuable land.

Charles S. Hull^ deceased, was born in this tp. Jan. 26, 1843, the sou of Thos. Hull, deceased, who came to Southern Illinois in 1822, and to this county in 1829.- Charles was raised on a farm and educated in the public school; June 4, 18G8, he married Louisa, daui^hter of Nathan H. Davis, near Grig^sville. Mr. Hull was a farmer and stock-raiser, and resided on tne old homestead until his death, which occurred Jan. 11. 1879, a zealous Methodist. Mr.

and Mrs. Hull luid 2 children, Mary A. and Siirah A. The Hull farm was one of the first farms settled and improved in this tp. Mrs. H. still resides there and carries on the farm.

David Hull, dcceRBed; was born in Pickaway Co., O., Nov. 9, 1830, and emigrated to this State in 1836; Oct. 16, 1858, he married Sarah Sperry, daughter of John and Catharine S})erry; the former died Oct. 3, 1878, and the latter resides with her daughter at Hull's Station, ^[r. and Mrs. Hull had 5 children, of whom 3 are living, Everett, Mary and iMinnie. ^fr. Hull was a prominent farmer and stock- raiser in the Mississippi valley, and was the founder of Hull's Station, which was named for him. He died March 16, 1875, a| devoted Christian man, liberal, public-spirited, etc. Two of his brothers, James and in the late war. Jan. 17, 1878, Mrsi Hull married Stephen Whitaker, anative of New York, who came to this county with Benj. Brown in 1833. Mr. Wiiitaker's mother died when he was but a small boy, and he was brought up by Mr. and Mrs. Brown. He resides at Hull, engaged in farming. He followed broom-making for about 20 years, with good success. We give Mr. H.'s portrait in these pages.

David D. ITull, jr., merchant, is a native of this county, born in Barry tp. Sept. 25, 1844, a son of Tate Hull. In his 18th year he shouldered a gun and fought for Uncle Sam in the late war, in Go. H, 99th Reg. I. V. I., for about two years, when his compan}' was consolidated with Co. C. He was in the Yicksburg campaign, the battles of Champion Hills, Raymond, Fort Blakeley, Fort Spanish, Mobile and others. His two brothers, Thomas and Albert, also served in the war. In 1865 Mr. Hull married Sarah A., daughter of Granville Scott, deceased; and they have had 6 children, of whom 5 are living: Minnie A., Norton C, Everett, Wily and Hubert. As a merchant Mr. Hull carries a general line of goods.

J. JV. Hull was born Jan. 9, 1836; the son of Thomas Hull, an early settler, and the first supervisor of this tp. J. N. owns 400 acres of valuable land, and has 260 acres in wheat at present. He is engaged in the grain business at Hull's Station, and has recently erected a grain elevator and agricultural warehouse, 24 by 56 feet. January, 1860, he married Miss Mary M. Sprague, daughter of Deacon Seaman SpragUe, of Kinderhook tp., and they have had 6 children, of whom 3 are living: Loyal S., Jennie B., and James L.

Marietta B. Johnson was born in Berkshire county, Mass., where she resided until 34 years of age. She married George Snow in 1857, who lived but 3 years afterward; in 1870 she married Mr. L. Johnson, who lived 6 years. She is now a wid<jw, and proj)rietor of a hotel at Hull's, where she has resided for 7 years. Her maiden name was Marietta B. Stuitevan.

Charles E. Jones was born in Onondaga county, N. Y., Feb. 11, 1847, and is the son of Jeremiah Jones, of that State; he came to this county in lst)9, and was assistant foreman on the Hannibal division of the Wabash railroad the same year. May 25, 1872, he married Miss Almira E.Steadman, daughter of Revilo B. Steadman,

James P. Jour tifij \\'i\^ horn in Adains county, 111., April 10, ls47, a Bon of Joseph W., deceased, an early settler in that county. Auix- -2, 1S()1», he inarrietl Nancy A. Wa<^y, and they reside on the old homestead, .sec. 5, en^ai^ed in farming. His grandfather, Peter Journey, settled in Adams county pri»>r to 1S25; was a memher of the first liojird of County Commissioners of that county, and nmrried the first couj>le that wei-e married hy license in that county. The license was written on hrown paper, and the ceremoiiv was 6idemni/e<l July 2(5, In^.'). Joseph W. Journey married Caroline Youn^, daughter of AuHtin and Margaret Y»»ung. Jan. 1, 1839, iind of their In children hut 5 bur\ive: Peter, James, Andrew, Dora S. (now Mrs. Win. .lellison) and Mary. The family removed to Pike county in \^h'>\. where thev resided until after his death, when in 1805 they returned to Adams county. Peter and James now re* bide in this county.

Jacoh Lea»' was horn in Hampshire county, \ a.. April 30, lsl3; was reareti on a farm; aime to Illinois in Ih60, locating in Adams c»»unty, and in lS.'i5 came to this county. He is now living with his thiril wife, and is the father of 14 children; 12 of these are jiving: Marv Iv, PIki'Ik* K., Joseph T., Sarah A , Susan F., Emery L., Wm. H.. Oliver P., V . S. (irant, Kva D., Dora and Cyrus. The 5 eldest are nuirried. Joseph married Sophronia Kenne«iy.

Mijfiin DalUis IAij(jttt was born Dec. 27, 1845, in this county, and WHS engage*! in farming until lsC4, when he learned the hlacksnnlh's trade, which he is ^till following in Kinderhook. In \sy\{\ lie marrieii Miss KUen Peard, of New York State, and their only child is George D., aged 8 years. Politically, Mr. L. is a Democrat, an<l he is also an Odd Fellow,

Il(irri«on McKee \\ii» born in Holmes county, O., April 5, 1S37, son of John Mclvee, decease<i, who brought his family to Pike ci>unty in the autumn of 1841. They traveled the entire distance of 80U miles and crossed but one railroad. There were 7 children, of whom 5 are living, Charles, I^is, Nancy (now Mrs. Pedwelh Allen and Harrison. Mrs. McKee is living on the old homestead, at the age of OG. Harrison follows farming in the summer time atul teaches school in the winter. He has taught for 17 successive winters, a part of the time in Adams and Morgan counties, but mostly in Pike.

Saniiiel E. Morris was boru in Ross county, O., in 1836; moved to Pike county with his parents in 1851 ; from 1857 to 1860 traveled to California ami throui^h the "West, when he returned to Pike county to work at his trade, hlacksinithinfj. In May, ls61, he enlisted in the 16th 111. Inf. Vol., and served with distinction for 3 years; in 1864 he married Lucinda F. Bolin, and their children are : Zella, Minnie B., America X. and Myrtie May. Mr. M. is a Greenbacker in politics. He is an auctioneer and blacksmith, and owns considerable city property.

Jainea T. Murray^ attorney, Kinderhook, was born in this county, April 10, 1*^39, where he resided until 1862 ; followed milliner 2 years in Minnesota, then the mercantile business in Quincy for a short time, and then commenced the study of law. In 1869 be removed to Lewis county. Mo., where he was admitted to practice; in. 1872 he returned to this county, settliufj at Kinderhook, where he has since practiced his profession. Oct. 18. 1864, he married Belle Sisler, of La .Grange, Mo., and the names of their children were Mary E. and Jennie K. ; both of whom died in 1872. In politics Mr. M. claims to be a Socialist.

MUly Murray was born in Triijg county, Ky., in 1808 ; her maiden name was Milly Kennedy; she came to this county with her parents in 1830. In l"^31 she married Eleazer Murray, who died in 1852, leavinor 4 children: James T., Rufus M., Mary Ann and Xancv Ellen. She lives on her farm of 100 acres; is 72 years old and in good health.

Elhxnah W. Sellers, school-teacher, was born in Barry tp., Sept. 27, 1857, son of David Sellers, of the same tp., who brougiit his family to this county in 1852. Mr. S. received a part of his education at the Christian University. Canton, Mo., and a part at Chaddock College at Quincy, and is the present principal of the Kinderhook schools.

James W. Spe)'ry, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 22, was born in Ross county, O., May 24. 1842, son of John Sperry, deceased. At the age of 19 he enlisted in Co. II, 73d I^g. O. V. I., and served 2 years and 3 months in the late war, being in the battles of Gettysburg, Chancellorsville, Lookout Mountain, etc. In November, 1867, he married Xancy L.. daughter of Noah Corey, of Ross Co., O. Their children are : Cora, Johnnie N., Bessie and Otis O. He is now building a two-story frame house 32 by 54 feet, which will add to the beauty of the valley.

Charles C. Spragae, physician aad surgeon, was born in Washington county, Ohio, Jan. 21, 1^37; educated in Beverly College, Ohio, and is a graduate of Rush Medical College of Chicago; came to this county in i860, taught a term of school in Payson, Adams Co., the following winter; at the same time studying medicine under Dr. M. M. liaiKJ, of Quincy. He tlien eidisted in the war as Hospital Steward in Co. C, 50th I. V. I., serving 3 years, and was present at the battles of Fort Donelson, Shiloh, Corinth, Resaca, etc., assisting in dressing the wounds of the soldiers. He began the practice of medicine in 1865, in Kinderhook, where he still remains,

Revilo B. Sttadman, tanner, sec. 21, was born in Cortland county, N. Y., Nov. 14, 18 ir., son of Joshua and Fatha (Beach) Steadtnan, I)ic. '24, 1S4G. in Wilkesharre, Luzerne Co., Pa., he niarried Maria A. Beisel, a native oi' that county, who was horn Nov. 18, 18i-*2. Four of their live children are livini^ - Peter R., Alinira E. (now Mrs. Charles E. Jones, of Hull), Hannah M. and Alfred B. Afr. S. came to Illinois in 1*^02, stopping in Barry 3 years, when he removed to Hull's. They are Baptists.

littinellatr Stceet was horn in Uen.sellaer county, N. \ . , Feb. 22, 1827, and is a son of Ira Swret, deceased, who brought his family to this county in 1n47. Mr. Sweet was raised on a farm and received his education in the common schools ot' New ^ Ork. After his arrival in this county, his educational advantages were very limited, the present free-school system not being in V(»gue then. He was married in 1848 to Rebecca Hull, «iaughter of the well knowji ]). I). Hull. They have .') chiMrcii, of wliom 4 are living : Mary A., Jane A., Koscoc A. and Delia M. The one deceased was K«ldieE, Mr. S. resides in Hull, and is engaged in general farming.

ThomdH O. Tulhert, farmer, sec. 10, was l>orn at Ka.-kaskia, 111., Die. 14, 1821>, son of Col. .lames Talbcrt, a ]>ioneer of this county. Aj»ril 8, 18').'), he marrie«l Elizabeth C, daughter of \Vm. Crump, deceased, also an early settler of tliis county.

William J. T(tlht'rt, farmer, sec. 80, was born in Washington county, Va., July 12, l^ls, son of James Tall»ert, decease*!, who brought hie family to tin' American Bottom, on Kaskaskia river, in 1829, within a mile of the house of Gov. Bond. After spending one year in Missotiri he came back to Illinois in 18.31, and the same year removed with his family to .\tlas, then the county-seat, where he kept a hotel f »r a year; he then removed near New Canton, where he resided until 1863, when he retired and resided in Barry until hisileath, which occurred in 186.5. Wm. J., being a ])ioneer, underwent the usual j^rivations of early times ; he received his school education in an old log school-house, with slab benches, the window extending the entire length of the building, it being simply the absence of a log; the tire-place occupied nearly the entire end of the room; the liack-logs were drawn in l>y a horse, there being a door on each side y>i the room near the fire-])lace ; the floor Consisted of mother earth. Nov. 24, 1844, he married Elizabeth, daughter of Lewis Hull, deceased, and they have had 9 children, of whom 6 are living : Thomas N., Martha E.. Mary I., Charley L., Hattie and Ettie T. Mr. Talbert was the second tanner in Pike county, having run a tannery near New Canton for several years. He was jailor while in Atlas, and witnessed the whipping of a hog thief by $herit!" Col. Seeley.

1854 lie removed to Missouri, where he eni^aged in fiirmiiig and nierchaii(lisin<^ ; after 10 years lie came to this county; in 1852 he married Nancy A. Sperry, in Columbus, O. They had one child, Win. A., now dead. In 185S Mrs. T. died, and in 185:> Mr. T. married Elizabeth Edu^ar. Of their S children 7 are liviiii^ : Fannie M., John II., Louisa, Jennie, Willy^ M., Berzelius and Kufus. The name of the deceased was Albert \j.

J. A. Walch is a native of Van Wert county, O., where he was born Aug. 10, 184G, and is a son of J. A. AValch, deceased; he came to Illinois with his mother and stop-father in 185S, locating in Stark county, ami to Pike in I8(i3. March 18, 1809, he married Charlotte Hull, and of their 4 children these 3 are living : Frank, Roy and Charley. Mr. AV. owns a half interest in a steam thresher, cornslieller and wood saw, which keej)S him continually employed.

Robert D. ira/v'/i;i(3;', jeweler, was born in Casey county, Ky., Sept. 16, 1810; in 1837 liis parents moved with him to Ray county, Mo.; followed farming until he was 24 years old, when he married Mary Blane, of Kentucky, and in 1847 they moved to Pike county, where he engaged in the storing and shi])ping business at Cincinnati Landing for 2 years; then clerked in a dry-goods store in New Canton for 2 years; then followed merchandising for himself in Newburg 3 years; then back to New Canton in the same business until 1850; then sold out and returned to Missouri, where he sold goods 2 years, when the rel)ellion broke out and he was robbed by <^ierrillas and barely escaped with his life; in 1862 he returned to Pike county and engaged in the sewing-machine business for 6 months; in 1863 went to Barry, where he remained until 1876; engaged in the jewelry business; he then came to Kinderhook, where he continues in that line of work, and owns a residence and a store. In religion he is a "Christadelphian, " and in politics a Republican.

V^ilson Brothers. These enterprising farmers are located on sec. 27 this tp., and are the sons of John A. Wilson, deceased, who brought his family from Kane county, 111., to this county in 1864. Alexander D. was born Jan. 29, 1850, and AVilliam was born Oct. 3, 1854. They are bachelors and prospering in business. Their household is presided over by their sister Eliza, who was born Feb. 22, 18C0, in Kane county, 111.

This i(i\vii.-ui|> \\;is (»ri«jinally H jiart of Kiiidcrliook township, l)ut in 1^75 till' citizens of- the i.>hiiu] petitituied the liuard (»t' Supervisors for the orj^anization of a separate township. This was irranted, and i!iclude<l the remainder .»f tlie territory west to the Alis>i>sij)pi river. reservin<^ en(»ni,'h ttt make a re^nhir " Conj^jrcssional ttiwnship.'' The township was named \>y the first Supervisor, Mr. Frank Lyon, for the levee across its western portion. This levee was constructed in ls7'2-4 hy a company organized for tlie jtnrpose, in order to ]»revent the overflow of tlie fertile valley of the iNIissis>i|)pi. It is '>1| miles in leuijth. In the year ls76 it gave way, and the valley was inundated, and a large amount of proi>erty, consisting for the m(»st part of crops and fences, was destroyed. People removed to IIaniiil)al, Mo., in hoats. The stock was also coiiveyeil away in hoats to the Missouri side. The freshet in IS.")! WHS the highest ever known on the I'pper Mississippi that we have any record of.

In some parts of the county the impression has gone fortli that Levee township is a wilderne>s, and that sickness prevails to a great extent. In confutation of this erroneous charge we refer to Mr. Marcus Hardy, the present Suj)ervisor of this townshij). He, witii a lart^e familv, has resided here for five vears, and has incurred but a $."> doctor hill during this period. Some also think that tjje people here see some hard times tinancially, Itut he it to the credit of Levee township, that every man nj»on whom we called in that township subscribed t'or a copy of tlie Ilistory of tlie County without a munimr. Indeed, the people of Levee townsliij) are prosj)erous, and have the garden spot of Illinois for producing grain oi'all kinds.

The townshii» contains three fine school buildings, two of which are on that portion known as "The Islmd," whicli lies between the Sny and the Mis.>issippi river. There is a mawidamized r<tad passing through the township, owned and maintained l)y the Ferry Company at Hannibal.

Marcus Hardy. This gentleman was born and raised in Missouri; came to Pike county in 1S75, an'^ now has the charge of the farm, bridge and macAdamized road belonging to the Ferry Com- paTiy. He was married in 1SC9 to Ellen Ila^'iir, by wlioin he lias 6 chiUlreii: Susan, Vir-^iuia, Anna, Ililera, William and Kmest. His P. O. address is Hannibal.

J. B. On\ farmer, sec. 26; wa8 born in Harrison county, O., Sept. 26, 1833, and is a son of William Orr, of Derry tp., this county. He was brouj^ht to Pike county in 1830 b}' his parents; served 3 years in the late war, in Co. I), 0:>th HI. Hif . and jiarticipated in the battles of Grand (iulf, Ma^Tiolia Hill {pv Port (iib.son), Champion Hills, Black River, sie<;je and capture of yicksbur<^, etc. He was united in marriacje Aug. 31, ISo-i, to Lydia A. Pence, by whom he has had 5 childron, namely: Mary A., Herbert S., Jerry J., deceased, Theresa P., l"'raucis M.

N^oah S. Rouse., being an old pioneer in these ])art8, is entitled to more than a passing notice in Pike county's history. He settled on sec. 22, on what is commonlv known as *'The Islaml," in 1847. He is a native of Madison county, Va., atid was born July 16, 1819. His father, Nicholas Pouse, was also a native of Virginia and a farmer. He removed to Keiitucky with his family when our subject was but 7 years old, and remained there 1(» years, and then removed to Ralls county. Mo. Here in 1878 the elder Rouse died. Our subject was married in 1840 to Miss Levise Settle. The following are the mimes of the children : Margaret A., now Mrs. Frank Leach, William AF., Robert A., Amanda E., George N. and Emma F., now ]\lrs. Alfred James. Mr. R. is engaged in farming and stock-raising, at which business he has been quite successful. When he crossed the river in 1847 he did not possess a cent, and was $150 in debt. He did not intend to remain here when he first came, ex]ieeting to leave as soon as he had fulfilled a contract for manufacturing some staves. He prospered, made money easy, and the longer he staid the better he liked the vallev.

William Smiley was born in Ireland, April 15, 1801; in 1821 lie was united in marriage with Miss P^liza Tophan, and to them were born 12 children, the following 6 of whom are living: Letitia, {now Mrs. Dennis Green), Joseph, Penjamin, Ann (now Mrs. John Pratt), David and John. A[r. Smiley brought his family to America in 1838, stop])ed in New York for 10 weeks, went to New Orleans, soon after came to Hannibal, Mo., and remained there for 9 years, when he removed to The Island, between the Sny and the Af ississippi, where he still resides on sec. 8, engaged in farming and 8tock-raisin<>^. There were but 4 acres of land improved uj>on his place when he came. There were no ehurches or schools on The Island, but plenty of wild hogs, deer and other game. He has been in all the liigh waters since the great freshet of 1S5I. During these periods of inundation he would convey his family and stock to the Missouri shore.

Cointv Ukkicials

A list ut tilt' Coiiiity OlHcers of I'ike county, past and pret-ent, presents an array ot" names, most of which are or have heen fainilliir to every resident of the county. Since itsor«;anization in 1821, Pike cttunty has ever been represented hy ahle, shrewd and honest otUcials. .Niany names will he noticed in the following list, under the ilitl'erent headinL'>, that are familiar to the jteople of the entire couhty. Many of these men, by a life of usefulness and honor, have won warm hikI allectionate places in tlu' hearts of the people of I'ike county. Many names here are not familiar to the present -generation, but were almost household words to the jtast. .Many of these veterans liave lon«^ since ceased lifuB labors and left to the remaining pioneers and to posterity, as a pleasant souvenir, a spotless reputation.

The gentlemen who at present till the various otHcial positions of this cctunty, as to ability, are inferior to none wlio have tilled their respective positions Ijetore them. They are courteous, cjij)able aiui faithful as «»fHcers, lionored and respected as citizens, and enterpriein*; as business men. To some of the.»e, e.-p'-cially the County and Circuit Clerks, we shall ever feel grateful for the kind and courteous manner in which they treated us all durin/' our labors in their ollices durini; the compilation of this w-irk. 'J hey, as all the others, evinced an interest in the work, and were ever ready and willing to give the information and leml that aid which are so necessary in gathering and arratiging a full record of the county's history.

Below we give as full and complete a list of all the ofhcers, with tlie years of serving, as it was possible to obtain. In most cases the figures after the dasli signify the year into which the officer served. In some instances, however, they only served to the beginning of the year denoted.