Rock Island County, Illinois - The whole text, 1908 (part 4 of 16)

The following material was used in its construction: Over 2,000 perch of LeClaire stone was used in the foundation, which is laid on rock foundation, with one foot of rock concrete on the bottom to fill holes and level off. The base or water table is of Carthage, Mo., granite; the die and sill course of dressed blue Bedford stone. The first and second stories of rock-faced buff Bedford stone and the two upper stories of sand-rubbed buff Bedford. Eighteen thousand cubic feet of stone was used above the foundations; 360 tons of iron beams in the buildings, 120 tons of steel was used in the construction of the tower, and about eightj^ tons of steel was used in the ornamental work. One million six hundred thousand hard brick was purchased and used in the structure: eighty tons of copper for cornices and roofing; 40.000 square feet fire proofing for arches; 15.000 square feet of plain plastering, besides a large amount of ornamental stucco work: 30.000 feet of maple flooring, together with 11,000 square feet Mosiac flooring; 7, -500 feet Tennessee marble wainscoting.

The floors contain 2,2.50,000 pieces of marble. Four nations contribute to the floor; black marble from Belgium, red from France, white from Italy, and pink from Tennessee.

The board of supervisors, through their broad and liberal spirit, together with the strenuous and faithful efforts of the citizens' committee brought about the result of giving the county the handsome building we have. The dedication ceremonies occurred March 31, 1897, and were unusually prominent, the new court house being opened for inspection, the circuit court in session in the old court house, adjourning to the new court house for the dedication ceremonies, and occupancy by the court, and the presentation by the chairman of the board of supervisors of the keys of the new building to the sheriff of the county.

The following addresses were made by William Jackson and Charles L. Walker, the sentiment of which toward the bench and the bar were exceptionally complimentary.

I desire to make a motion for the adjournment of this court, but preliminarj^ thereto I wish to say a few words, which I hope may be deemed appropriate to this occasion and the circumstances under which this court is now in session.

This day is an interesting one to the members of this bar and the people of this county. We have just withdrawn forever from a forum that for more than sixty years has stood in the midst of the people, as the visible place or temple where the law has been administered, under which the people have lived, and under its benign and protecting influence, have prospered. It has been 'sacred to the people, because therein the sovereignity of the law was asserted, a sovereignty that assumed the form of organized law, which has always commanded, and still commands, the fealty and respect of the citizens of Rock Island County.

In this beatuiful edifice in which we are now assembled, we are to continue the administration of public justice, to decide under the forms of law and in a spirit of impartiality, so far as it can be done by human agencies, the claims of contending litigants, and to preserve, protect, and maintain the rights of the state, and the individual rights and interests of the people, collectively and respectively.

Almost sixty-four years have passed since the first session of this circuit court, which, on the 28th day of April, 1834, was held at the plain and unpretentious log and frame house of John Barrel, in the eastern part of this city. Judge Richard M. Young presiding. The machinery of justice, thus set in motion, was started under very humble circumstances. The house of John Barrel contained no paneled ceilings, frescoed walls, or marble wainscoting. There was harmony and uniformity of design, finish and color, both in the interior and exterior, yet it was more in keeping with nature, than art; yet the decrees of that court, from that plain forum, were recognized and regarded by the people, the pushing, hardy, tolerant and hopeful pioneers of that day, who had pushed ahead into this country, then the far west, to found for themselves and the generations to come after them, a local government.

The architectural style, beauty and finish of this edifice especially interests the members of this bar. The years of the past have come and gone; the administration of the law and the business of the courts has not been done in marble halls, yet it has been well done. At no time have the people considered it necessary to assume or take the administration of the law out of the regular channels; they have always entrusted it to the direction of the lawfully constituted authorities.

There is not, at this bar today, a lawyer that connects us with the beginning of our judicial existence, but few links, however, intervene between this assemblage today and the very beginning. This, how'ver, can only be said of the lawyers. We have with us today in this room, citizens of advanced years, who were active citizens of this county in the years of the beginning; who helped to lay, firm and deep, the foundation of law and order in this county, and who can, and do, today, rejoice that the work was so well done and has been so well maintained. To emphasize this present thought, we would pray that in the conduct and lieart of the future people of this county, there shall dwell that sense of the dignity and supremacy of the law that so signally characterized the fathers.

The log house of John Barrel was soon superseded by the brick court house, to which we have this day bidden adieu, and while we contemplate the grandeur of the present edifice, and consider the burden, voluntarily imposed by the people to provide for its construction, we must not forget that the pioneers of this county, according to their numbers and ability, assumed an equal burden to provide the court house that we have just abandoned, which, in the day of its completion, was the pride of this part of the northwest.

The construction of this court house in which we are now met, is not the result of a protracted effort, first suggested in the board of supervisors in April, 1893, by Supervisor Joseph Fitzpatrick, the means to erect provided by the people, by vote in 1894, the foundation stone laid in October, 1S9.t: and completed for dedication in March, 1897.

The necessity for a new court of justice was promptly recognized by the honorable board of supervisors, although the building of a new structiu-e involved increased taxation, and added to existing burdens, yet the people of this county, by their votes, declared that the time had come when the character and dignity of the county, in connection with its executive and judicial departments, demanded a temple of justice that would truly represent the progress, culture and improved artistic taste of the present. The people decreed; it has been done.

We look around, and beyond, and behold this edifice, beautiful in design, symmetrical in proportion; in its architecture the designer lives, and will continue to live to tell the onlooker how, in his brain, there was planted that quality of art and artistic appreciation of form, color, quality and proportion, that could conceive and plan this b\iilding, about which there can be only one expression, "How beautiful!"

Not only does the building display the skill and artistic talent of the designer, but also the skill of the more humble craftsman, who, by cunning manipulation, mechanical conception and execution could, and has, so worthily and successfully fashioned and built that which the artist in beauty designed. .

This court house stands as a monument to the good taste, broad and liberal spirit of the board of supervisors of this county, who, notwithstanding many adverse and discouraging criticisms, yet, believing that the people of Rock Island Countj' were worthy of a structure that should represent the intelligence and energy of the people, had the courage and determination to build this building. For the push, energy and official integrity that has brought the work to so successful a termination, we will today award to the board of supervisors that measure of credit, recognition and praise that is their due.

We should not, at this time, when speaking of the means and forces that insured the successful completion of the court house, forget the faithful contractor, and the superintendent, who have so well performed their labors, and won for themselves the recognition of their fellow citizens, who will award to them the credit of having performed their work with signal ability and merited tribute of praise.

The board of supervisors have ordered that on the 31st day of March, 1897, the people should be invited into this public edifice, to cordially and quietly enjoy and contemplate this ])ublic enterprise so auspiciously coml>leted; hence we are now surrounded with a bu.sy, earnest throng of citizens, who are this day, with music attending, treading the broad aisles of this court house, enjoying the delight of its beauty, and expressing by

And now, in the presence of this court and the people, what shall be further said on this occasion? We have built this house, doomed and cupaloed, principally with iron, stone and marble, not only because we wanted to build, but to build with such form and grace that it should stand in the midst of the people as a public recognition of the supremacy and majesty of the law; the law, not as a shifting and uncertain influence to be changed by the casting of a die, but a controlling moral and political force, that stands guard by day and by night, shielding and protecting all classes alike; not only the house of luxury and refinement, but an all powerful influence encircling and protecting the cabin of the poor; a law so potent that it tempers the power of the executive, as well as the will of the people; the limitations of the law being its safety, its adaptation to all being its strength and beauty. The majesty of its influence was well illustrated in the celebratetl speech of Earl Chatham, in the British Parliament, "The poorest man in his cottage may bid defiance to all the forces of the Crown; it may be frail, its roof may shake, the storm may enter it, but the King of England cannot enter it, - all his power dares not cross the threshold of that ruined tenement."

When the citizen surveys this public structure, he can not only enjoy the grandeur of its appearance, but the mental fact that it is the monument of a free people, guided and inspired by wise and just laws, and intent upon the enforcement of them; laws to be obeyed until repealed; and if, in the course of time, experience demands a change to meet new conditions, then shall the change be made, not by wilful disregard of existing enactments, but by legal and constitutional methods, for only by such methods, and under such conditions, shall the "government of the people, by the people, and for the people," survive, and not perish from the earth.

The sixty-four years of the judicial life of this court is behind us. Many of us passed the summit; what we have done, or left undone, the world knows. The personal and mental characteristics that have marked our lives and actions during the years of the past will probably remain unchanged to the end. If our lives have not been well rounded out by upright conduct and moral force, the fault has been with ourselves. Happy for us if om- personal characters have so impressed our fellows that they are willing to concede that our lives have been well spent.

But there are at this bar, at this time more than at any former period of its history, many young men of varied talents, who will be the leaders of the future. It is an interesting and important question to ask what will be their position in this court, and what estimate their fellow citizens will place upon them. Will they come and plead at this bar only for personal glory, that men may praise their ingenuity and skill as lawj^ers? Will they simply estimate their personal importance by their gains, without reference to the means and instrumentalities used to command these gains, or will the lawyers of the future at this bar be men whose highest aim shall be so to discharge the varied and exacting duties of the profession, and their personal duties to their fellow practitioners, that inquiry will not be necessary to find out to what plane of public estimation they have attained, - but the constant, truthful, kind and even tenor of their professional conduct shall lead men to a prompt, instant and cordial recognition of their personal worth. I hope this may be the standard of the lawyers of this county.

those years I have had the honor to appear before all the judges that have presided in the circuit and count}- courts. Considering the arduotis and delicate duties that a judge has to perform, restraining the impetuous lawyer, client or witness, instructing and encouraging the timid and independent, deciding delicate and intricate legal questions, affirmed by positive counsel and questioned by others equally positive; and yet, so deciding the questions involved that the decision shall carry with it the respect of all. - duties of this kind would appear to be so difficult that complaint would seem to be the rule; 3'et this bar, and the people of thig county have a right, and it is their duty to accord to the judges now living and to the memor}' of those departed, that the work of the judiciary has been well and faithfully done; and the kindly and earnest expression of good feeling of the lawj-ers of this count}^ towards the judges is a just and proper tribute to the bench of the courts of this county. If, in the future, another court house shall supplant the beautiful one in which we are now gathered, and it is then said about the judiciary, as it can now be said, that the bench has been an inspriation and kindh- assistance to the bar, the years of the future in that regard will be years of pleasant association and reciprocated kindnesses.

And now, if the court please, in view of the public interest now manifested in this cotirt house dedication, and to enable the judges, lawyers and officers of this court to join with their fellow citizens in this gathering of the people, I move that this court do now adjourn.

yiy name is not mentioned in the program, nor is the subject which I wish to submit to your honors referred to therein. Yet as the matter is germaine to the proceedngs of the day, I have been requested by the committee in charge of the e.xercises to address your honors thereon, and I therefore beg a moment's indulgence before your honors shall pass upon the motion to adjourn.

What I shall say will be on behalf of the citizens' court house committee of Rock Island and I have been requested first to give the hi.story of its organization and of the work of this committee.

Prior to October, 1894, the court house project seemed to be regarded favorabh- bjthe people, but about this time an undercurrent of opposition developed and a series of articles appeared in some of the papers outside of this city, urging the voters to vote against the building of a new court house, and the issuing of the .$125,000 of bonds, both on account of the increased taxation and because the time was inopportune.

Owing to these conditions it seemed necessary that some sj-stematic and tmited efforts be put forth to overcome these objections and to stimulate an active sentiment in favor of the project.

To this end some of those in favor of building the new court house determined to organize a committee to formulate means and measures to seciu-e it.

Accordingly early in October a meeting was called at the office of State's Attorney Searle to consider the matter. Some twenty citizens attended and T. J. Robinson was elected chairman, and C. J. Searle secretary. After a full discussion of the situation a committee was appointed to report at a subsequent meeting. This meeting was held within a few days thereafter, and a subcommittee of fourteen was selected which should have full charge, and take such action as should seem advisable to secure favorable action by the voters.

S. S. Hull, C. F. Lynde, Phil Mitchell, William Jackson, C. J. Searle, H. P. Simpson, W. P. Qiiayle, J. F. Robinson, John Ohhveiler, S. J. Collins and myself. This committee organized by electing H. P. Simpson secretary and myself chairman, and as thus organized began work.

Of this committee C. F. Lynde, J. F. Robinson and John Ohlweiler were appointed a committee to raise the necessary funds, and secured subscriptions from seventy-two citizens, of sums ranging from fifty cents to fifty dollars, aggregating six hundred and seventytwo dollars.

The committee decided to make a complete canvass of each ward in this city by personal interview of the voters and see that a full vote was polled; and at the same time send from one to three men into each township in the count}', to enlist the efforts of as many influential men of the township as possible, and employ one or more suitable men in the township to continue the work until the polls closed.

The committee also prepared and printed literature consisting of original matter, e.xtracts from the "opposition articles" with appropriate suggestions and distributed them throughout the county attempting to place pamphlets in the hands of every doubtful voter; enlisted the acti\e support of friendly papers, and thus aroused the friends of the project, turned the tide of disaffection and

Of the money collected, $553.67 was devoted to the above purposes, leaving a balance of $118.33 in the treasury. The board of supervisors delegated the honor of laying the corner stone to the Old Settlers' Association, but refused to appropriate money sufficient to defray the necessary expensas of the exercises, and that society being without funds our committee appropriated $47.94 to cover this deficit.

After paying these bills there still remained $70.39 in the treasury-, and after thoughtful consideration the committee concluded that it would be appropriate and wise to apply the balance towards the purchase of some suitable memorial to be placed in the building, and finally decided to purchase and have hung in this court room portraits of all the chief justices of the United States Supreme Court than whom the names of no abler judges adorn the pages of judicial .action.

This has been done and I now have the honor and pleasure of jiresenting to this court, on behalf of the seventy-two subscribers to the fund, the portraits which you now see upon the walls of this room, and the committee trust they will be accepted by your honors as suitable appointments to this beautiful temple of justice and right.

William Jackson

The first term of the Circuit Court of Rock Island County was held April 28, 1834. in the house of John Barrel in Farnhamsburg, Richard M. Young presiding Judge.

Farnhamsburg was located on the bank of the Mississippi River, in the east part of the City of Rock Island, a short distance west of the residence of the Hon. Ben T. Cable. The first house built on the present site of the City of Rock Island, then Farnhamsburg, was a log house built by Colonel George Davenport and one Russell Farnham, who was engaged in business with Colonel Davenport. This log house was afterwards enlarged and kept as a hotel b}- John Barrel, a A'irginian. In November, 1835, the records and Court were removed from the house of John Barrel to Stephenson. I'nder an act of the Legislature of March 31, 1819, the State of Illinois was divided into four judicial circuits. The Judges of the Supreme Court of the State held the Circuit Courts. The Circuit Courts are Courts of general jurisdicture.

The County Commissioners Court was e.stablished March 22, 1819. It had jurisdiction throughout the County in revenue matters, count}' tax, licenses, and other public business. Three Judges formed the Court. One was the County Judge, the others Associate Justices. This Coiu't continued until the Count}' Court was established by act of February 12, 1849. The County Court consisted of one Judge. It had probate jurisdiction. Under the law two Justices of the Peace were elected. These had authority to act with the County Judge to transact the business formerly done by the County Commissioners Court, and so continued to 1857, after which the Count}' business was transacted by the Board of Supervisors, the County being then organized under the township organization law.

The following persons, residents of Rock Island, were at various times members of the County Commissioners Court: George Davenport, John W. Spencer, John Vanatta, George W. Harlan. John S. Miller. Lucius Wells, Nathaniel Belcher, Jacob Coleman, Lemuel Andrews, Adolphus Dunlap, John R. Taylor, George .->. Moore, John Kistler, William L. Lee. M. W. Wright, Samuel Sloan, Jacob Starr, T. C. Temple, Captain T. J. Robinson, James Weaverling, William M. Bailey, John M. Gould, George E. Holmes.

The County Court was established by an act of the Legislature of February 12, 1849, in addition to its jurisdiction in probate matters and matters pertaining to the revenue. The Legislatm-e conferred upon the Court a limited law jurisdicture, which it still possesses, although enlarged.

Courts of Probate were first established by law February 10, 1821. In the County of Rock Island Harmon G. Reynolds was Probate Justice from 1S.39 to 1846. He was followed by Ira 0. Wilkinson, 1847 to 1849.

The Circuit Court of Rock Island County was originally in the fifth judicial circuit of the State of Illinois, afterwards in the sixth judicial circuit. In 1873 with the Counties Henry and Mercer it comjiosed the fifth judicial circuit. Afterwards, under the act of June 7, 1877, the Counties of Rock Island, Mercer, Henry, Henderson, Warren and Knox composed the tenth judicial circuit. Under the act of April 23, 1897, the Counties of Rock Island, Mercer, Whiteside and Henry now compose the fourteenth judicial circuit.

Among the gentlemen named above as Judges who were residents of the County of Rock Island are Ira 0. Wilkinson, J. W. Drury, George W. Pleasants and William H. Gest. Judge Wilkinson, after leaving the liench in 1867, went to Chicago, where he practiced law \nitii 18S1, when he returned to Rock Island County and resumed practice. He died August 24, 1894. Judge Pleasants, after he became Judge in 1867, continued to preside as such until the year 1897. He died October 22, 1902. For nineteen years he presided as one of the Judges of the first, second and third districts of the Appellate Courts of this State.

Judge Gest is now one of the Circuit Judges of this judicial district. The members of the bar of Rock Island County who are now in actual practice are about sixty-five. Many of them are young men who have lately entered into the practice of the profession. The oldest memlaers of the l.)ar now living and nearly all are in actual practice, are John T. Browning, Edward D. Sweeney, William Jackson, Lucian Adams, Henry C. Connelly, M. M. Sturgeon, W. J. Entriken, William A. Meese, William R. :\Ioore, J. T. Kenworthy and Charles L. Walker.

The feeling inspired in a great number of the people of the County, to pa\^ a tribute to the soldiers of this County, who had and would die in the war for the protection of the Union, was expressed and recognized by the Board of Supervisors December 17, 1863, by the passing of a resolution, appropriating $1,500 toward the building of a suitable monument to be placed in Courthouse Square as a memorial to the soldiers of this County who died in the War of the Rebellion; and that their names be inscribed thereon.

For the purpose of carrying out the intent of the resolution, the clerk of the Court was authorized to issue county orders to the amount of $1,500 to the County Monument Committee whenever they may call for them. The committee appointed were Nathaniel Belcher, B. H. Kimball, S. S. Foster, J. Q. Wynkoop and S. W. Wheelock. September 12, 1S67, the Board of Supervisors authorized Major James M. Beardsley, chairman of the Citizens' Committee, to procure plans and specifications. The design presented by Leonard W. Volk, Sculptor, of Chicago, was accepted by the committee and contracted for.

December 17, 1868, the Board of Supervisors authorized the County Clerk to draw an order on the County Treasurer for the amount necessary to complete the Rock Island County Soldiers' Memorial Monument, upon the order of the County Monument Committee, after they should have expended the amounts already appropriated by the

The base of the monument is Concord granite, and Athens, Illinois, limestone; the shaft, which is capped, is surmounted by a statue of a Union soldier; all of Italian marble, and is about fifty feet in height. A copper box was placed in the base, under the marble shaft, where was placed newspapers of the day, and historical documents. Names of all soldiers enlisted from the County are engraved on the bases.

In removing the monument to its present location one of the base stones were broken and replaced with granite. On the base of the monument is inscribed this sentiment:

"In memory of its patriotic and heroic sons, who served their country during the Great Rebellion, and died that the Nation might live. Rock Island County dedicates this Monument."

On Friday, April 9, 1869 - the day being the fourth anniversary of the surrender of Lee's army to General U. S. Grant at Appomattox Court House, Virginia - occurred the dedication of the Soldiers' Memorial Monument.

With clouds and rain the previous day, filled the feelings of the people with disappointment; but the morning dawned clear and beautiful. The crowds gathered from the cities and country, with a fine, strong and large representation of our Iowa neighbors. The Court House square, with Illinois and Orleans Streets, were crowded. The city was gaily decorated with flags, tiiuiting and banners. At about 2 o'clock the police and military formed at Court House square; the Masonic orders on Buffalo Street, the Odd Fellows and Good Templers on Illinois; the Fire Department on Market square, and the civic societies in Court House square. A long line of march was made, starting from Court House square; east on Orleans Street to Madison; north on Madison to Illinois; west on Illinois to Otter; south on Otter to Orleans; and east on Orleans to Court House square, where the ceremonies commenced. The military from the Island made a most commanding appearance. General T. J. Rodman and most of the officers were present. The Turner Societies with their fine singing added nuich to the occasion. Salutes were fired, whistles blowing and church bells ringing. After the invocation to the people,

The ceremonies of the day were highly interesting and impressive, and indication of the community's deep respect for the dead soldier. The occasion was the most memorable in the history of Rock Island County - full 30,000 people being present.

The twelve cannon originally placed around the Court House yard were given to the County by the War Department through an act of Congress, and are cannons captured from the Confederacy - several of them being spiked. Two of these cannon were afterwards presented to Graham Post No. 212, G. A. R., Moline, Illinois, and placed in Riverside Cemetery.

Decoration Day ceremonies have been regularly observed ; first by the Rock Island Light Artillery, and since their disbandment bv G. A. R. Posts situate here.

September 1, 1856, on ajiplication of three petitioners, signed by over fifty legal voters of Rock Island County, praying for the question of township organization; it was ordered liy the court that the question be submitted to the voters of said coimty, to vote for or against township organization at the next November election. Abstract of votes given at said election resulted as follows : and Flavel J. Whitney as commissioners to divide the county into towns, in accordance with general assembly act for township organization, passed February 17, 1851.

Town of Camden, changed to Black Hawk; town of Fremont, changed to Penn; to^\^l of Buffalo, changed to Copper; town of Walker, changed to Zuma.

September 16, 1858, a part of Edgington Township, was, through the pra3'er of petitioners - citizens of Edgington Township - by order of the board of supervisors, named Andalusia.

September 15, 1871, bj- petition of eightj-- three legal voters of Coal Valley To^Tiship, a jiartition of the township was made, and named town of Rural.

March 3, 1873, a petitibn was presented to the board of supervisors, by Quincy McNeil and others, to annex that portion of the Town of Black Hawk north of Rock River to the Town of Rock Island.

December 12, 1873, by a vote of the board of supervisors - yeas, nine;na}^s, eight; absent, one - it was ordered that the portion of Black Hawk Township l3'ing north of Rock River and south of the corporate limits of the City of Rock Island, be detached from the Town of Black Hawk and annexed to the Town of Rock Island.

December 14, 1877, the board of supervisors adopted a resolution that the portion of Rock Island Township, south of the corporate limits of the City of Rock Island, extending to the north shore of Rock River, be created and constituted the new Town of South Rock Island, to take effect March 1, 1878. The corporate limits of the Cit}' of Rock Island to be the Town of Rock Island.

H, Sec. 6, T. 17. H. 1, 4th P. M.. and W. fractional 3^ (south of S3'lvan Water) of Sec. 31, T. 18, R. 1 W., 4th P. M., the city council annexed said territory to the Citv of Rock Island, and made it a part of the Fourth Ward of said city.

September 15, 1875. at a meeting of the board of supervisors the above tract (a part of Moline Township), to simplify administration and taxation, was annexed to the Town of Rock Island.

March 14, 1879. Adopted by the board of super^^sors, that the Town of Moline be subdivided. The incorporated City of ^loline be organized as the Town of Moline; the remaining territory of iloline Township to be hereafter known as the Town of South Moline.

The town of Cordova lies in the extreme northeast end of the county. It is a fractional township. Iving well up on the bhiffs, and commands one of the finest views on the Mississippi River. The earliest settler was Herdman East, who built a log cabin in 1836 on the present site of the village of Cordova. Other settlers coming that year and in 1838 were J. S. Phillips and John Marshall from New Jersey: Guy W. and Amazi Rathburn, Nelson and Chauncey M. Tripp from New York: William Kellew Dudy Buck. Peter Beardsley, A. G. Adams, Wm. Armstrong, Jeremiah Rice, Robert and Wm. Jenks, Dr. Thos. Baker, Benoni Haskins, A. Whiting, all having families. Nathaniel Belcher and Miss Jenks. and Joseph Mills and Miss Jenks were among the first married. The township is quite rough and broken, though some fine farms. The principal industry is the manufacture of lime.

Tillage Of Cordova

well up on the bluff and commands one of the finest views on the Mississippi River, which stretches away in both directions until lost bj' its windings; the Ijluffs at this point are rather abrupt.

The earliest settler of this place was Herdman East, who built a log cabin in 1836; John Marshall and family. Dr. Thomas Baker, Amazi R. Rathburn. Theodore and John Butcher coming the same year. William and George Marshall, Jonathan and K. S. Cool, and Joseph R. Sexton came in 1838.

The town was laid out in 1837 by John Marshall and Dr. Thomas Baker, and the first frame houses were built the following year by these gentlemen. Lime kilns were early established, and for some years this was a busy point. The first school was taught by Dr. Baker in his own house, where he instructed in a primiti\'e way his own children, together with those of his neighbors.

The first school house was built in 1863, and conducted under the common school laws of the state. Since Februar}' 16, 1865, a board of education, composed of six members, control school affairs. The especial pride to which the residents direct attention is their fine graded school which numbers upward of 300 scholars, under the supervision of an efficient principal and corps of teachers. The school also has a well equi]iped circulating library. The principal product of the locality is corn, of which large shipments are made. The first postoffice was established in 1839, John Marshall being its first postmaster, who also kept the first hotel. In 1853 the first grist mill was erected by Brigham and Marshall. A petition for village organization was filed March 16, 1867. An election was held and went against organization. In 1877 the subject was again submitted to the voters and affirmed in favor of village organization, and on the 23d day of April, 1877, the village was dulj- organized. Cordova is situated on the Mississippi River, and Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railwav.

Coe. surrounded by the townsliips of Canoe Creek, Port Byron, Zuma and Cordova, is considered one of the best agricultural jwrtions of the county. John Walker was the first settler in 1835, followed shortly by John Butcher; his brother, Burrall Butcher, coming in 1836, and in 1851 locating on his brother's section, his brother having left for California, but died on his way there. Samuel Allen came in 1837, moving from what was afterwards the village of Port Byron. Samuel Ennison came shortly after from Indiana. Henry Smith, Henry M. Stockton and Isaac Hollister also coming in 1837. Mrs. Charity Marshall, a widow with nine children, came in 1S38 from New Jersey. The first to wed in the township were Hiram Walker and Mary Ennis, and David Allen and Miss Remson.

Port Byron

In the year 1826 two brothers. Robert and Thomas Syms, located on the present site of Port Byron, and established a wood yard for supplying cord wood to steamboats on the Mississippi River. Their location soon came to be known as Syms' W^ood Yard. They were among the first white settlers in this locality, other residents being principally Sac and Fox Indians.

During the year 1828 Archibald Allen, Conrad Leek, George W. Harlan and others came with their families and settled in this township. Archibald Allen traded with the Indians, l)uying skins and furs. He was afterwards appointed supervisor of roads, was elected to the office of constable, and from 1833 to 1834 was United States mail carrier between Fort Armstrong and Galena. He was also postmaster, the office being kept in his own house, which was located just north of Syms' Wood Yard. Prior to its removal in 1836 it was known as Canaan. Mr. Allen built the first frame house between Quincy and Galena.

In 1830, Thomas Ilnl.hanl, H. Mast and Britton arrived and became residents of the new settlement. During this j-ear a son was born to Mr. and Mrs. Conrad Leek, which was the first white child born in the township. In the year 1831 a son of Geo. W. Harlan died, this being the first death in the townshij).

During the }-ear 1832 Edmund A. I'hilleo was killed, the result of a quarrel over claims and possession of land. Mrs. A. Allen was the first adult person to die. The first school was taught in 1833. New settlers who came in 1834 were Walter Phillips, Geo. R. Allen, H. M. Smith and Presley Quick. The next year, 1835, Samuel Allen, William McKenney and a Mr. Hathaway came with their families. Samuel Allen kept a tavern in a double log house. His wife. Aunt Candace, as she was known, was a good cook, and they were well patronized. This year the government surveyed anil subdi\ided the public lands. In 1836 the arrivals were Moses Bailey, Rufus B. Chase, Nathaniel Belcher, Jeremiah H. Lyford, Addison N. Philleo, Astimus Philleo and his daughter Lucretia. R. B. Chase manufactured the first white lime, for which Port Byron became noted.

About this time a town was platted and Port Bj-ron became a pouit of considerable business activity. George S. Moore erected a store building; the postoffice at Canaan was closed and opened at Port Byron, with Nathaniel Belcher postmaster. Mr. Belcher built a hotel and the first frame dwelling. Dr. Jeremiah H. Lyford, a graduate of Dartmouth College, was the first physician; his ]iractife extended over a large territory, both in Illinois and Iowa.

Colonel Eads was a resident here for a time, living with Archibald Allen ]irior to taking up his residence on "The Heights," at this time known as LeClaire, Iowa. His son was the famous Jas. B. Eads, also living at Le- Claire during the late forties and early fifties, removing from there to St. Louis. He became widely known as a builder of boats for the United States government, constructor of the St. Louis bridge and the jetties at the mouth of the Mississippi River.

On August 1, 1836, the first election was held for the selection of representatives in the state legislature and in congress. On November 7th the first ])residential election was held, at which eleven votes were cast, all for Martin Van Buren.

This is a school town. The Port Byron Academy is a flourishing institution, under the management of the Congregational chiu'ch; it has close relationship with Beloit College. The public schools are on a high order and are recognized for their good work.

Village Of Port Byron

The village of Port Byron was incorporated in February, 18.56. The village was laid out in 1836, b}' Sanuiel Allen, Dr. P. Gregg, Nathaniel Belcher and Moses Bailey; the land was held in common by them. On the lanrl was but one log house and a small log store. The store was started by Walter Phillips. Shortly after the site was laid out Nathaniel Belcher built a frame store, and put in a stock of general merchandise, associating with him Mr. Hambaugh. The first grist mill was erected in the spring of 1849 by T. G. Temple and N. Dorrance. It was run by steam, and had one set of burrs for wheat and one set for corn. The first school was held in the old log store of Samuel Allen in 1838, Harriet Dodge being teacher. The first school house was of brick, and was built in 1864. In addition to the public school, an Academy was erected in 1883, and is in a flourishing condition. The village is situated on the Mississippi River, and its railroad facilities are the Chicago, Jlilwaukee & St. Paul Railway.

Historic Rock Island Count Y.

Creek Townsliip. These first settlers were Jonas Carter, John M. Walker and Joseph Martin. They came with ox teams from Wayne County, Illinois, and landed at Canoe Creek on the 26th day of August. 1835. Their first work was to cut down some small trees and make a pen for their stock, and then to cut some larger ones and split them up to make a rude shelter for themselves. Mr. John M. Walker is the only one of the three now living. After selecting his claim he went back to his former home and was married. He and his young bride then made their wedding trip on horseback from Wayne County to Canoe Creek. Mr. Walker still resides on his first choice of land. His wife passed away a few years ago. Abstractors would have an easy time tracing Mr. Walkers' title to the land he owns. He has a deed signed by James K. Polk, president of the United States, and it has never been transferred.

Mr. Carter and Mr. Martin went to work at once on their arrival and biiilt log houses on their claim. These were the first houses in what is now Canoe Creek Township. A part of the land covered by their claim is now owned by Wallace Woodburn and a part by William Pearsall. The land at that time had not been surveyed bj' the government, except into townships. Al)out three years afterwards it was subdivided into sections.

At this time there was only one house where the Cities of Rock Island and Moline have since grown up. Mr. Walker informs the writer that their nearest neighbor to the north at that time was at Savanna, where a man lived who ran a ferry; and the nearest one to the east was at Dixon, where there was a stage station.

Their first market place was Chicago, to which place they hauled all of their surplus grain and drove the stock which they had for sale. They would haul a load of wheat to Chicago and trade it for salt. This was slow

They would often find streams with full banks, swollen by heavy rains, and would have to camp for days waiting for the water to subside so they could cross with a reasonable degree of safety. At a later date Savanna and Galena' became milling places, ^'ery often one would take a sack of wheat and go on horseback to one of these places to have it ground into flour. When they went by team it usually took several daj's. The mills had small burrs and ground but slowly and each customer had to wait his turn to have his grist ground.

Money was scarce in those days. People did not go to the stores every week as now, for groceries and other supplies. One old settler has stated that one year his grocery bill was made up of three items: one dollar's worth of sugar, a gallon of kerosene oil at seventy-five cents, and a barrel of salt. Wild game furnished most of the meat; Johnny cake, corn bread, and a little -white bread, potatoes and wild fruits, honey and maple syrup made up their bill of fare; and it was not so bad either. Housewives spun their own yarn and did their own weaving.

The scarcity of money is illustrated by the statement of one old settler, who states that before he could raise the fifty cents per acre to pay the government for his land, he had to pre-empt it several times. First by himself, then his wife and his children, making repeated filings in order to hold the land until the money could be raised.

The first frame schoolhouse was the Poplar Grove schoolhouse, and was built by John Denison. The first school was taught by Miss Johanna Herd.

Hillsdale Village

Is in Canoe Creek Township and is not incorporated. It is a small village but has good school facilities, general stores, blacksmith shop and two hotels. The first postoffice was established in 1842 or 184.3, with Moses Hubbard as postmaster. The second postoffice was called Hill's Crossing. At this crossing a station was established by the Sterling & Rock Island Railroad, now the Chicago, Burlington & Quinc}-, and the village was laid out in 1868 by Richard Hill and named Hillsdale. It is the shipping point for a part of Canoe Creek and Zuma Townships.

The first white child born in what is now Zuma Township was Mary Ann Sturdivan; the first white boy was L. \\'. Beal, long afterwards colonel in the army. The first school house was built in 1854. It is known as the Wake school house and is where all the elections are held. The first frame house built was by Mr. Center on what is known as the John Moody place. The houses in those days were small, rude and inconvenient. If they had floors they were usuallj- of good solid oak, an inch and a quarter or more in thickness. I remember of only two houses in those early days of 1850 that were painted; those were Nelson Wells and Joseph Shanks. Polished floors were unknown and rugs and carpets verj- scarce. The people who settled in Zuma in those earlj' daj's were generous and hospitable; the stranger was always welcome. They believed like President Roosevelt in having plenty of good girls and boys, and in those daj-s the bo3's helped their fathers and the girls their mothers.

There were no carriages or buggies in those days. If a yoimg man wanted to take his best girl out. they had to go on foot or horse back or ride in a lumber wagon. And the people seemed happy in those days, had good times and enjoyed themselves just as well as they do today, if not better.

Among those who settled here fifty years or more ago, and whose farms are now occupied by persons of the same name are the following: Nelson Wells, Monroe Swank, Ambrose Searle, James Searle (on Rock River), Madison Bowles, George Wake, A. H. Mead, J. A. Donahue, Charles Schaffer, A. E. Herren, Davis Daily, Hiram Walker and Wesley Hanna.

The first frame house was built by Ambrose Searle in 1838. The frame was hewed out, rafters and all. The shingles and lath were split or ' ' rived "' out of oak with an instrument called a "frow." The boards were of maple and were sawed at a mill between LeClaire and Princeton, Iowa, owned by a Mr. Barber.

Historic Ro C K I S Land Co U N T Y.

Is situateri in the southeastern part of Zuma Townshi]\ and is a station on the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad. It was located by Benjamin B. Joslin, who came to this county in 1853 and acquired 600 acres of good land in the locality, and marked out the village at the time of the building of the old Sterling Railroad. N. B. Joslin, his son, started the first store in 1870 and was the first postmaster. The village is not incorporated, is small but has two general stores, one implement store, a new church, several dwellings and a good farming community surrounding it. The railroad station is named Joslyn, but the old family name is Joslin.

Zuma Center

Is situated in Town of Zuma and is not incorporated. In 1S56 A. F. Russell laid out a town site which was named Zuma Center. It soon had a store, blacksmith shop and shoe shop. The bounds consist as laid out of three streets, two blocks and thirty lots. It is a small place with church, school and three houses.

Named after Fred Osborn. a long time resi. dent and land owner of the locality. The village is not incorporated. It is situated in the southern part of Zuma Township, near Rock River and on the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad, and near the old Cleveland ferry crossing. The postoffice, railroad depot and half a dozen houses constitute the village. At one time years ago the Sterling branch of the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad had a bridge here across Rock

This township is situated north and east of Moline Township, the Mississippi River forming the northwestern boundary, and the Rock River the southern. The township consists of bluffs along its northern and southern boundaries, with wide rich bottoms along the rivers and a broad valley running east and west through its center, extending from the Mississippi River to Rock River. Martin Culver made the first land claim in 1826. Rev. John Kinney and two brothers made the next claims in 1827. During 1828 Henry McNeal, Joel Thompson, Michael Bartlett, Asaph Wells and Joel Wells, Jr., settled in the same vicinity. The first birth, was the daughter of Henry McNeal - Mary Ann - born October 5, 1832. The first death occurred in 1829 or 1830, on board the Steamer Josephine, on her way to Galena; a lady from England coming to Galena to visit her son, died just as the boat was landing, and she was buried at Hampton. The first couple married in the town was Joel Wells and Mary Mc- Murphy, by Jonas Wells, justice of the peace, in 1835. Within the township are si.x villages: Hampton, Watertown, Silvis, Carbon Cliff, Barstow and Rapids City, all incorporated villages but Barstow. The township contained some rich coal beds ; some of which have been worked for many years. Charles Ames opened the first coal mine. Heagy and Stoddard, and Taylor Williams operated quite extensively in coal on sections 15, 16 and 22, where was located the mining town of Happy Hollow, now extinct, having at one time a population of 1,000 hard working, busy people. A railroad connecting these mines with the Western Union Railway, now the C, M. & St. P., at Watertown, was built in the winter of 1872 and 1873. Taylor Williams and H. M. Gilchrist & Co., operated in

Joel Thomp.son was the first postmaster, and received his appointment in the winter of 1837. Lucius Wells taught the first school, . in a log cabin, in 1833 and 1834. Elihu Wells was the first teacher under the school laws.

In the years of 1833 and 1834, Henry Mc- Neal furnished all the wood for the Mississippi River steamboats above the DesMoines rapids, and for forty years thereafter Hampton was one of the principal points for furnishing coal and wood to the river steamers. Henry McNeal owned the first tax receipt issued in Rock Island County for taxes paid. Hampton Township is well supplied with railroads: Chicago, Rock Island & Pacifie; the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul; the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy, and the Davenport, Rock Island & Northwestern traversing her territory.

Village Of Rapids City

Rapids City was surveyed and laid out in 1838. About 1833 a grist mill was built by the Wells Brothers; a saw mill Ijeing subsequently added. Another grist and saw mill was built by Joseph Cox in 1838. A Mr. Runkle and a Mr. Blanchard sold the first goods. Joseph Garnett, the first blacksmith shop in 1847. Henry S. Shurtliff started a regular grocery store in 1855, and afterwards added dry goods. In 1857 E. M. Prudens started a general merchandise store.

August 12, 1875, the county court, after canvassing the votes of an election called and appointed prior, to vote on village organization - the residt of which was forty-six votes for organization and one vote against - the court decreed the Village of Rapids City to be incorporated. It is situated on the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railway.

Tippecanoe Milage was platted and filed for record the 2d day of September, 1839; the formality of going through the necessary forms of recording was done, and on February 18, 1840, was approved by the county commissioners. The plat was six blocks long an two and one-half blocks wide; recorded by Joseph Cox, Samuel Cox and David Jennings the 17th day of February, 1840. It was located between Rapids City and Hampton, on the Mississippi River, about o])]iosite Sycamore Chain. A very few people know of its ever having had an existence. It evidently was a paper town.

Village Of Hampton

The Village of Hampton, in Hampton Township, was surveyed and platted soon after the organization of Rock Island County. Among the earliest business men were Joel Thompson, Alonzo P. Clapp, Dower and Hammond, Samuel and David Lambert, M. W. Wright and Francis Black, followed by L. F. Baker, H. F. Thomas, H. O. Norton, Dr. George Vincent, S. L. Brettun, and Wm. B. Webster. The first postoffice was established in the winter of 1837, Joel Thompson being commissioned postmaster, followed by Francis Black, Samuel Heagy and L. F Baker. From the earliest settlement Hampton was one of the principal points for supplies for the farmers in the upper end of the county, and even considerable territory in Henry County. Here they brought their grain and sold their pork, which was packed by M. W. Wright and Francis Black, and shipped down the river by the steamboats. In after years the coal interests were the principal business reliance; Heagy and Stoddard and Taylor Williams being extensive operators. In 1884 Heagy and Stoddard were succeeded by the Northern Mining & Railway Company, who ceased operations about fifteen

The oldest person liorn in the township, if not in the county, now living, is George McNeal, who was born in 1834 in a log cabin which stood just south of the town hall in the same block in which he now resides.

The assessors' plats show there exists in the Village of Hampton, an old village called Milan, which was platted in 1837. The plat showing about thirty blocks. In this district at the present time are only four or five houses. In that year the postoffice department at Washington, D. C, was petitioned for a postoffice at this place to be called Milan. There being a postoffice of that name already in the state, the department established the postoffice under the name of Hampton, from which name the township and village derive their names.

Barstow is not an incorporated village. When the Sterling branch of the Chicago, Burlington A: Quincy Railfoad was completed through Hampton Township, a station was established on land owned by Joel G. Franklin, and named Franklin Crossing, a postoffice being soon after established and given the same name as the railroad station, and Mr. Franklin being commissioned its first postmaster.

When the main line of the railroad was run to this place, the name was changed to Barstow, and shortly afterwards the name of the postoffice was likewise changed. A large transfer in mail, passenger and freight business is done here, to and from the Sterling branch, and despatched and received to and from the main lines to St. Paul and St. Louis. The village now comprises about twenty-five buildings and houses, an eating house, depot, restaurant, a general store, blacksmith shop, school house and postoffice.

Village Of Watertown

Is located in Hampton Township, and was platted in 1857. The first store was started that year by Lucius Curtis, who became the first postmaster. The Western Illinois Hospital for the Insane is located there. On the 14th day of March, 1905, fifty-one legal voters _ of a district prescribed, petitioned the county court for the organization of the Village of Watertown. The 15th day of April, 1905, was set apart for an election t<.) be held at the M. W. A. hall to vote for or against village organization; the result being sixteen votes for incorporation and forty-four against.

April 24, 1905, another petition was presented to the county coiu't by forty-five petitioners for village organization and an election day appointed for the 13th day of May, 1905; the result being sixty votes for village organization and thirty-eight votes against organization.

An election held the 17th day of June, 1905, for village trustees, resulted in the election of Frank H. Sovey, John Rah, Henry C. McNeal and David Y. AUsbrow. A tie vote occurring of forty-nine votes for Eric Bowman and Henry Hillberg. Each came into court on the 23d day of Jvme, 1905, and agreed to decide by lot. One of the officers of the court was blindfolded, two slips of paper with each candidates names written thereon were placed in a hat, and the officer drawing therefrom, Eric Bowman was declared elected the si.xth trustee.

Village Of Cabbon Cliff

November 13, 1906, thirty-seven legal voters of Hampton Township, desiring village incorporation, petitioned the county court for same. The court ordered an election to be held on the 8th day of December, 1906, for or against village organization, the elec- tioii to be held at Hennegan's store. The result of said election was fifty-five votes for village organization and twenty-eight votes against same. An order was issued calling for an election for six trustees of the village the 12th of January, 1907. W. R. Carey, William Gearhardt, J. A. Hennegan, Clans F. 'Hansen, R. X. O'Donnell and P. N. Hennegan being elected.

Towns Of Rock Island And Moilne

A history of the towns of Rock Island and Moline would apparently be similar and coincident to the history of the cities of Rock Island and Moline, the two towns being the corporate limits of the two cities. The date of the formation of these two townships is noted in Township Organization.

Was organized as a town March 14, 1879. It comprises all the territor}^ originally in Moline Township, lying south and east of the corporate limits of the City of Moline. The history of the township, with the exception of its e.xtreme eastern portion is so strongly interwoven with Moline, it is hard to draw a historical line. Among its earliest settlers were David Sears, Charles Atkinson, Joseph Danforth, Joel W^ells and Huntington Wells.

Village Of Silvis

November 14, 1906, thirty-six petitioners representing over 300 resident popidation, jjetitioned the coimty court of Rock Island County, Illinois, for the organization of the Village of Silvis. An election was ordered to be held December 1, 1906, for or against village organization.

The corporate limits of said village to be as described in ]ietition, about two square miles. Result of election was seventy-nine votes for organization, and six votes against. An election for six trustees was held January 12, 1907. R. Walsh, J. W. Pike, James Shannon, Wm. Emniert, F. J. Ball and Herbert Love

Village Of East Moline

On the 22d day of November, 1902, fortytwo legal voters of the district petitioned the county court for the organization under the general law, of a village to be named the Village of East Moline. The 20th day of December was appointed as an election day to vote for or against village organization; election to be held at John Deere school building. The result of said election was forty-seven votes for organization and seven votes against. December 2.3, 1902, the votes were canvassed by the judge of the county court and two justices of the peace, and announced and adjudged for village organization.

January 17, 1903, Andrew L. Mills, Thomas J. Gorman, Albert E. Bergholtz, Frank E. Palmer, August G. Schipper and James B. Hock were elected trustees.

This is a rapidly growing village, and famous for its number of manufactories. At present the village is unable to accommodate the hundreds of working men who are employed there and at Silvis, a few miles above, and where the Rock Island shops are located. The employees of the gigantic shops are compelled to live in Rock Island, Moline and Davenport, for the most part owing to the fact that not a sufficient number of houses have been erected for their occupancy.

East Moline was incorporated as a village December 23, 1902. It is situated in South Moline Township, seven miles east of Rock Island, and four miles east of Moline.

The Rock Island System, the C, M. & St. P., the D., R. I. A N. W^ Railroads and the Mississippi Valley Traction Company electric line enter the village.

What was considered old Coaltown was more of a locality than a village, embracing a territory contingent to numerous coal mines in the southeast portion of the present township of Hampton and a small part of South Moline Township, and a very active locality it was in the early days. At one point where Samuel Bowles, who came to this county in 1835, discovered the first coal bed in this vicinity, and at one time built a church there. The vicinity was called Bowlesburg; another vicinity Tinkerville. The Silvis mines are still running, and a branch of the D., R. I. & N. W. Railway run there.

The township extends south from the corporate limits of the City of Rock Island to the north shore of the Rock River. This township is exceedingly productive of agricultural products. Its chief distinction lies in its jjhenomenal growth. From a mere pasture, hills and farm lands it has developed into one of the most desirable residence portions of Rock Island County. The principal place of interest is the noted Black Hawk's Watch Tower, which at the present time is quite a summer resort. From this tower Black Hawk kept watch for his enemies, either red or white.

There are few locations, if any, in the great northwest, that will compare with it in natural beauty of scenery. Black Hawk's Watch Tower is a prominent point of ground, rising almost perpendicularly some two hundred feet above the level of the Rock River; and from its summit one can look out over miles and miles of pastoral beauty, and seventeen miles of the Rock River Valley.

Rock Island City

Was located opposite the western end of Vandruff's Island, on the north shore of the Rock River, taking in the site of the old Sac Indian village. It was eighteen blocks long, running north from the river, and east and west nine blocks. It was platted and accepted by the County Commissioners July 20, 1836, and recorded July 22, 1836. A beautiful paper city.

Village Of Sears

Is located in the Town of South Rock Island. Forty-three legal voters of South Rock Island petitioned the County Court to have the privilege of voting on the incorporation of the Village of Sears, under the general law; petitioners describing bounds and affirming the district contained a population of 350.

May 3, 1894, an election was held for or against incorporation, resulting in fifty-three votes for organization, and six votes against. May 26, 1894, the following six trustees were elected: C. H. Dibbern, John E. Breen, B. Patterson, J. McCarty, J. F. Mead and E. D. Fisher.

Derives its name from the noted chief of the Sac and Fox Indians, who for many years had his home within the present limits of South Rock Island Township.

This township originally was full six miles square, with the exception of a few hundred acres cut off from the northwest corner by the Mississippi River, and with Rock River flowing from the east nearly through its center. Afterwards the township was divided and Rock River became the northerly line of Black Hawk Township, and that part of the original township north of the river was named South Rock Island Township.

The first marriage license in the township was issued on August 22, 1833, to Benjamin Goble and Barbara Vandruff, both now asleep in the beautiful Chippiannock Ceme-

Joshua Vandruff was an early pioneer and lived on what was then called Lowell Island. His sons, Joshua. Jr.. John, Henry, Jacob and James, all had farms on Big Island, where they lived for many years. Other early settlers in the township were William Dickson and Col. John Dickson, the latter for many years justice of the peace; James Johnston, G. W. Heflin, James Dickson. Ira Whitehead. X. D. Bradley, Wm. Young, Daniel Pinkley, David Brownlee, Garret Davis, John BuUe}-, Morgan Fergurson. A. L. Buck and N. Bruner.

The township has an abundant supply of coal and wood and is traversed by two railroads - the Chicago. Rock Island & Pacific to Peoria, and the Cable and Mercer County Branch. The Peoria line was built in 1854. It also has an electric car line, connecting Milan, Black Hawk's Watch Tower, Rock Island, Moline and Davenport. The celebrated Hennepin Canal, connecting the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River, is completed through this township.

At one time there were three paper mills on Rock River and two large flouring mills, one owned bj' James Johnston and one by the Sears company. All were consumed by fire.

but also for being an exceedingly prosperous farming community. The bottom land is very rich and produces immense crops of corn, hay, jjotatoes and small grain, while the finest apples, peaches, grapes and berries are raised in large abundance, and all find ready market close at hand. It is not surpassed - perhaps not equalled - by any other section of the state, or the great west. Farmers, as a rule, are well-to-do, prosperous and happy, and a hajjpy home amidst such surroundings means an extension of life. The south side of the township has a line of beautiful bluffs and are made practical from being underlaid with a vein of most excellent coal, from four to six feet thick.

With rich soil, beautiful scenery, cheap fuel, clear running streams, extensive water power, transportation bj' rail, both steam and electric, by river and canal; nearby markets and a healthful climate; what more can be desired, and what is there lacking to make it an ideal farming communitj'?

With farms paid for, and carrying an unquestioned value of SI 00 to §120 an acre, and with good health, why should not our farmers be contented and consequently happy.

Lowell

Was located on the north shore of Lowell Island - now Vandruff's Island. It was surveyed in June, 1844, and plat approved by count}' commissioners the second of September, 1844, and filed of record the 16th of October, 1844. The plat was executed for Joshua VandrufT, Zadoc Kalbaugh and Thomas Patterson, and was four blocks long, east and west, and three blocks wide, facing north on the main branch of the Rock River, about where the first present north wagon bridge crosses the river. Regularly named streets were Kalbaugh. Patterson and Mill running north to the dam. Lemuel Andrews kept the first store. It was short lived. An old canal was built here in the early forties, to surmount the Rock River rapids; for the

Historic Roc K I S L A N D C 0 U N T Y. Villack Of .Milan

On the south shore of Rock River, in Black Hawk Townshi]), stands Milan, deriving a thrifty trade from her adjacent farming country. Cheap coal and abundant water power make ililan essentially a manufacturing point, though sad to relate, a nemises has aj)i«irently ]>ursued every establishment ever erect eil there.

Milan was originally called Camden, and was laid out by William Dickson in 1843. In 1848 the name was changed to Camden Mills, on account of there being another Camden in ychuyler Count)'. In 1S70 the name was changed to Milan. The ])Iace was incorporated as a village in 1865.

When white settlers first arrived here, the famous Sac village of Black Hawk stood on the op])osite side of the river. A colony of Kickapoos occupied the south shore below the town. In 1828 Rinnah Wells came here and .settled among the Indians, who did not leave their village till 1S31. Joshua \andruff came the year following. For two or three years these pioneers and Indians lived together, and had their friendly intercourse and their disputes and qiiarrels. Mr. A'andruff built where Sears' Mill now is, and lived there until he built his house on the island which bears his name, and where he died and was buried about 1859. Hi.s remains were afterwards taken up and removed to Chippiannock Cemetery. Mr. Wells died suddenly in 1852, being fouiul dead in his buggy on the road.

William Dickson, the founder of the town, was the father of Colonel George Dicksdu. for many years justice of the peace in Milan. He was born in Newburg, N. Y., March 27, 1783. His father was a Captain in the Revolutionary war. His grandfather and grandmother were murdered by the Indians and Butler's Rangers in the famous Cherry Valley massacre. After the Revolution the father of William Dickson moved to Westmoreland County,Pennsylvania, where William was brought up till he was eighteen, when he moved to a farm in Erie County, Pennsylvania, near the shore of Lake Erie. Here he was married and became quite a noted man of his time, being at one time a member of the Board of Canal Commissioners of the State of Pennsylvania. He raised a family of nine children, seven sons and two daughters. In the sjiring of 1S34 he visited this portion of Illinois on horseback, and returned home in the fall. In 1836 he returned here, and was one of the ])roprietors of the famous ' ' Rock Island City '' scheme. In the spring of 1837 he brought his family here, and resided on the site of the old Sac town till 1S67, when he sold to D. B. Sears and moved to Milan, where he died NovemI)er 25, 1869.

The Dickson and Brunot Flouring Mill was built in 1843 by James Dickson and Felix R. Brunot. In 1846 Howard and Weeks biult a saw mill just below the above. In 1848 it was converted into a flouring mill and carding machine by James Dickson and N. D. Bradley. In 1843 Joshua \'andr\iff and Zadoc Calbaugh built a saw and flouring mill at the north end of the dam on Vandruff's Island. The flouring mill was struck by lightning and l)urned in 1857; the saw mill became delapidated and fell into disuse, and finally rotted down about 1870.

Today Milan has no manufactories to speak of, and serves simply as a village trading point for the farming community. The glory of her earlier days, the immense in\-estments and the rugged ami acti\-e life which once made for Milan a rejnitation long to be remembered, the factories and shops which once represented upwards of a million and

Village

Coal Valley dates its staple history from the spring of 1857. Large deposits of coal in the vicinity, and the opening of mines, fixed its location. The first small coal mine was known as the "Bailey Coal Bank.''

In 1856 Ben Harper. S. S. Guyer and David Hakes acquired a large tract of land containing large deposits of coal ; thej- organized a company to mine coal and construct a railroad to get it to market - the railroad being completed from Coal ^^alley to Rock Island in October, 1857. The first coal loaded on a railway car at the Valley was handled by Robert Lee, afterwards superintendent of the mines of the Coal Valley Mining Company at Coal Willej', Cable and Sherrard; and considered one of the best coal mine experts in the state. At present he is resting on the laurels of a good honest bus}^ life.

Opening the mines gave a strong impetus to the new town. The first business house was a general store, owned by Mr. Herrick; afterwards by Bailey and Boyle, then by Cable, Lee and Bardsley. The building is quite a landmark. The first physician to locate was Dr. Thomas Martin, coming from Camden Mills. The first meat market by Mr. Grantz, then by Thomas Corns, who came from Camden Mills and to Rock Island Count}- in ISoI. The first lumber j-ard was owned bj- Frederick Wej-erhaeuser, the great lumber and timber king.

About 1859 Philander L. Cable of Rock Island purchased an interest in the mines of Harper, Guyer i^- Hakes, and later acquired entire control, with R. R. Cable an interest. The Cables never having any trouble witlt the miners; helping them to get their homes; and it is understood, dividing with them the market price of coal - one-third to the firm.- one-third to the railroad and one-third to the miners; which would seem mutually equitable and just. The first shoemaker was Peter Schroeder, a German. The first settlers in the Valley were largely foreigners - Welch. English, German and Irish; but a more hospitable community was never known. Latch strings of all the homes were always on the outside. The first mail to Coal Valley was by stage. Mr. Dack of Rock Island was carrier. Mail was received once a week. The first postoffice was kept in what is now J. K. Stenstrom's shoe store. The first postmaster was Thomas Jones, who was also mine boss for Hakes, Guj-er & Harper. After the railway was built the mail was brought twice a week, then three times a week, and in the early sixties became dail}-. At one time Frederick Weyerhaeuser was postmaster; the present incumbent being Thomas J. Murphy, who has filled the position for ten years.

The Coal \'alley Mining Company's mines being nearly exhatisted, the company sought a new field at Cable, .\fter the removal of the company from the "\'alley, a number of other mines were opened by the Black Diamond Coal Company; John J. Pryce and others. There is a vast field of coal, within a radius of two miles of the town; the owners of which are the Guinty heirs, the Hillier heirs, Robert 8ommerson, Thomas Lees, the Black Diamond Coal Company, Dr. W. F. Myers and the Banner Coal Company.

grain elevator; two large general stores; two meat markets; grocery stores; two blacksmith shops; shoe store; drug store; barber shop; restaurant; livery and feed stable; brick yard; and all to make up a flourishing wide awake community.

The first settlers of Rural, which formerly formed part of Coal Valley Township, were Thomas and Davis Goodlow, brothers, who built the first house on section 29. John Farlow being the second, who came from Pre-emption Township, at which place he was the first settler. He built the small house on section 30 of this township. The first child born was a son of John Farlow, in 1839. The first marriage was that of David Goodlow and Nancy Farlow. Before the j-ear 1840 the following persons came to this township: A. L. and A. N. Sayre, J. M. Wilson, Capt. J. A. Jordan and Daniel \'alentine. Capt. Jordan and Mr. Valentine lived just over the line in Pre-emption, but most of their land being in Rural they finally Ijuilt in this township. The first school was taught by Seth Trego, in a private house. The first school house was built in 1846, by contributions from the following persons: Capt. J. A. Jordan, Albert N., Alonzo S. and j\I. Sayre, J. M. Wilson, Daniel Valentine and William Crist. These persons also contriljuted money to secure the first teacher, Mr. Shedd.

Robert Middleham, Patrick Campbell, Henrj^ Brown, Charles Wilkinson, Jlichael Ballman, Philip Deal and Alexander Cordon, all of whom had families, arrived in what is now known as Rural Townshij), about the year 1848. At that time the nearest habitation was six miles, at Milan (Camden Mills at that time.) Rock Island then was the nearest postoffice.

Alexander Bailey, who won the appellation of "Old Satan" among his neighbors, was also among the early Rural settlers. He scjuatted on and held the southwest corner of

In 1850 Francis Baile}' settled on a farm in section ll, and soon thereafter a school house was built on his land, which is still known as the Bailey School House.

John C. Bailey relates that when he arrived in Rock Island, in 1849, that he labored for $4.00 per month and got a grocery order for pay. The family settled in Rural Township in 1851. They broke prairie for several years with oxen of from four to six to a plow. Upon one occassion they broke forty acres of ground for a neighbor and received as remuneration the munificent sum of .$80.00 all in silver 50 cent jiieces. At another time they liroke a like number of acres for the same money and considered that they were making money rapidh'.

Bowling Township is botmded by Rural on the east, Edgington on the west, north by Black Hawk and south b}- Mercer County. The country is quite rolling, with splendid farms, and plenty of timber land and prairie. The first settlers were Mr. Bowling, John Tyndall, William Tyndall and Edmond Cropper, in 1838. William Tyndall came to the county in 1835, living in Stephenson over two years. In 1841 James, David and John Clarke and John Johnston and Christopher Armstrong - all from Ireland - formed the next settlement, known as the Clarke settlement, in the southeastern part of the township. Curtiss McKnight settled soon after. The first school was held about 1844 or 1845, in a small frame house on section 26.

The first white children born here are now among the old men ami women of our times. They are the Dunlaps, Edgingtons, Titteringtons, Montgomeries, Parks, Parmenters and Eberharts. Only a few of them reside here now to tell the story of their childhood days. Many have removed to other parts of the globe, and some have passed the bourne whence none return, and so the name of Edgington has now a halo of sacredness about it.

The first settlers were James Robison, Joseph Dunlap and Daniel Edgington. It was in the summer of 1834, when Andrew Jackson was president, and the State of Illinois had attained the age of sixteen years, that they planted homestead stakes. Robison moved up from Warren Count}', Illinois, and Dunlap and Edgington came prospecting from Steubenville, Ohio. Immigrants came overland in wagons, or down the Ohio and up the Mississippi by steamboat. Prospectors came mostly on horseback. Robison and Dunlap located on section 5 and Edgington on section 6. On each section good springs of water were found. Where Jacob L. Harris now lives, James Robison built his cabin, and returned for his family that same fall.

About the center of the section, on the east border, Joseph Dunlap built a double log house. He and Edgington returned to Steubenville and brought their families. They came in the spring of 1835. Those three cabins formed a sort of triangle, with a path leading from one to the other. Such was the beginning of the settlement of Edgington Township.

family, with Moses and Charles Titterington, came in the fall of 1835. The Eberharts coming from New Jersey and the Titteringtons from Ohio.

In 1836 B. McNutt and family from Ohio, William Snell and family from Mississippi, Daniel Montgomery from Pennsylvania. Soon after came Alexander Hazlitt and family, W. D. Hatton, Parley Laflin and family, Joseph Asquith and family. In 1838 George Parmenter, Allen Parmenter. Lorenzo Parmenter, Seth Parmenter, H, H. Parks, A. J.- Webster and Timothy Dulton increased the settlement.

Daniel Edgington was the first justice of the peace. The business of the justice was not very onerous in those days. Squire Edgington, however, had the honor of performing the first marriage ceremony that was solemnized; the parties united by him were John P. Cooper and Miss Mina Pace.

The first school was taught in the cabin home of Mrs. Amanda Cushman, on section 6. just opposite the present residence of Geo. T. Harris. Mrs. Cushman was the teacher.

The first postoffice was kept in the Cushman home, and Mr, C. D. Cushman was postmaster. It was not against the law to scratch matches on mail boxes, for there was no matches nor mail boxes. There were no postage stamps, no envelopes, no money orders, no registering of letters.

The first and only grist mill, which was a great thing for the neighborhood, was constructed b}' Joseph Dunlap, at his own residence, in a very primitive manner. The building was of logs. Its size w:as sixteen feet square, one story. The burrs were two granite boulders. The mill was run by horse power. Its grinding capacity was about fifty bushels per day. To make a fine quality of flour the bolting was done by hand with a hair seive. But the wheat flour was, for the most part, a first class quality of what is now called graham. Much corn meal was used. Neighbors on coming to the mill usually furnished their own horse power, and did their own grinding, and the proprietor took no toll.

Edgington Village

Is an unincorporated village, situate in the Town of Edgington. In the early forties and up to the coming of the railroad it was quite a thriving place. George D. Parmenter opened the first store in 1843. in his house, a log cabin. He afterwards built what was called the old store, selling out to Isaac Negus and E. Burrall. The firm of Negus & Burrall subsequently built a larger and better building. They were succeeded by Charles R. Ainsworth, and he by Rufus Walker. In 1855 Fish & Lee commenced business here, afterwards locating in Rock Island. The railroad on the east cut off the early trade, and conditions now are much more quiet.

Taylor Ridge Village

Is not incorporated. It is situated in Bowling and Edgington Townships. The Rock Island and Mercer County Railroad was completed to this place in September, 1876, and on the day of its completion twenty-three cars of stock were shipped to Chicago; and on the following day seventeen car loads. The village is surrounded by a good agricultural country. It was laid out by J. L. Frankeberger, a civil engineer employed on the railroad, and contains two blocks and twenty-four lots, two stores, a blacksmith shop, an eating house, postoffice, drug store, hotel, elevator and excellent conveniences for carrying on grain and stock business. The people along the line of the railroad have shown a remarkable degree of enterprise and liberality in contributing to the constructing of this road. Mr. James Taylor gave the right of way here and $1,000, and the place was named Taylor Ridge in his honor. The railroad crosses the village transversely.

Village Of Reynolds

Wait and Walker originally platted a portion of Section 36, of the township of Edgington, for a village, and gave it the name of Reynolds, in honor of Elisha P. Reynolds, the railroad contractor and long time resident of the City of Rock Island. The first plat contained three blocks of forty lots. The village as at present is situated in two counties and four townships. Edgington and Bowling Townships of Rock Island County, and Perryton and Pre-emption Townships of Mercer County. The Rock Island and Mercer County Railroad was completed to Reynolds October 6, 1876. On that day a half-mile of track was finished by 3 o'clock and at 6 o'clock thirty-three cars of stock were shipped to Chicago. A glorious day's result. The first building erected was the depot building, by Rufus Walker, and where was sold the first goods. W. D. Goodner erected the first hotel, the Commercial House, in 1876. The first blacksmith was H. Webster, winter of 1876. The first harness maker was Emil Helpenstell, in 1877. Joseph Flora the first wagon maker in 1877. The first physician. Dr. F. Stuart in 1877. The first grain buyers were Wait & Walker; loading grain directly into the cars from the farmers' wagons. The postoffice was established in 1876, with R. B. Olmstead its first postmaster.

School District No. 7 was formed in 1877, the first school being taught in the house of Weaver Kuhns by Miss Jenny Kuhns. At present they have a fine commodious school house. The school is a graded one.

An election held at the bank in Reynolds, February 28, 1891, for village organization, resulted as follows; si.xty-seven votes being cast: Thirty-three \-()tes for organization, and thirty-four votes against organization. May 17, 1894, ui)on petition to the Cotintj- Court of thirty-one legal voters of the district, June 2, 1894, was appointed the date to hold another election on the jiroposition of village organization. Said election resulted, fiftysix for incorporation, and twelve against. July 3, 1S94. J. P. Johnston, W. G. Davis, J. M. Walker, Gust Olson, W. P. Kuhns and R. P. Wait were elected village trustees.

Town Of Andalusia

Andalusia is one of the historic towns of Rock Island Countj-. It is located ou the Mississippi River, about ten miles west of the City of Rock Island. The township has about six miles of frontage on the river, but has less depth, being less than half the size of a congressional to'WTiship. Though small in size it is one of the hustling townships of the county. Its historj^ dates from the earliest settlement of the country. One of the first settlers was Captain B. W. Clark, father of Captain W. L. Clark, of Buffalo, Scott County, Iowa, now the oldest living first settler in the State of Iowa.

A quarter section of land, which forms a part of the present town plat of Andalusia, was entered by Captain B. W. Clark, and in the fall of 1832 he built a hewn log house at the west end of what is now the Milage of Andalusia. This house when first built was the only one between that of Joshua YandrufT on Yandruff's Island, at the foot of Black Hawk's Watch Tower, and Erastus Dennison's, at the upper "Yellow Banks," now New Boston. The logs used in Captain Clark's house at Andalusia are still doing good service. They were taken down long years ago and hauled across the river on the ice to the Town of Buffalo, and at the jiresent form, the west half of Henry Springmeier's residence at that place.

John \'anaita, during the fall of 1834. This was afterwards bought and occupied by Jonathan Buffum, and for half a century was known as the old BufTum place, now owned by A. Hofer. This same fall Mr. Dunlap, Daniel and John Edgington came to this part of the new west and located lands just south of Andalusia. They soon returned to Ohio, and in the spring of 1835 chartered a boat and brought their families and household goods and became permanent residents. The}' also brought with them the elder McXutt and his son John, a carpenter; Moses and Charles Titterington and two other brothers and their families; also Charles and Harr}' Eberhart and families, and Adolph Dunlap, a noted gunsmith. James Robison and the Parmenters came a little later.

Clark's Ferrj^ which was operated between Andalusia and Buffalo, became the most noted river crossing above St. Louis. Many of the first settlers of this section of the west came down the Ohio River by boat and then up the Mississippi to Clark's Ferry. Many of the first settlers of Scott, Muscatine, Cedar and Linn Counties, Iowa, crossed the river here. Captain Clark operated this ferry until 1836. when he sold his interests on this side of the river, including the ferry to Colonel Stephenson, W. S. Hamilton and a Mr. Whiteside, of Galena, Illinois, for S17.000. These men, with others, laid out the town of Stephenson, afterward Rock Island. They also laid out the town of Rockport, the east side of which was Fancy Creek, and the west side the creek on the west side of the Sulphur Springs farm, and the south line at least a mile from the river. They had it platted on paper in a most gorgeous and attractive manner and took it to Washington, D. C, where, it is said, thej' sold thousands of dollars worth of town lots to such men as Daniel Webster, Henry Clark, John C. Calhotm, General George W. Jones and other prominent people, none of whom ever saw the lots. Rockport only grew on paper and finally died a slow and easj^ death, was sold for taxes and bought up by Napoleon Bonaparte Buford, who relaid a portion of it into lots and named the new town Andalusia.

The Memorial Association is composed of old soldiers, old settlers and others. Its organization was effected by the members of Alfred Bing Post, G. A. R. The idea was to have an association that would be historical in character and in time, when the old soldiers have all passed away, would succeed the Post in a way, and aid in perpetuating the memories of war heroes and also of the historic characters conspicuous in the early settlement of the country. This organization sets an example worthy to be followed in other communities.

Captain W. L. Clark, in his reminiscent sketches, tells of a wedding party in the early days, where the knot was tied by the late Daniel Edgington, when a young man and justice of the peace. John Cooper and Jane Fay were the contracting parties. They lived in Buffalo, which was then in an unorganized territory, so they came to Rock Island County for a license and were married on this side of the river. The young justice had never performed a ceremony of this kind before and was more or less nervous. Thus it happened that he forgot to ask all the usual questions and when the consent of the bride had been signified he pronounced them man and wife without propounding the usual queries to the groom. Mr. Cooper, who lived many years in Buffalo often asserted that he had been but half married.

' ' Since boyhood I have lived in the territory known as the Louisiana Purchase, State of Illinois, Michigan Territory, Wisconsin Territory, Minnesota Territory, Black Hawk Purchase, Iowa Territory, and the State of Iowa, and all this time only moved one mile. I might add that I have a friend, 'Timber Woods,' of Burlington, Iowa, whose oldest son was born in Michigan Territory, his second son in Wisconsin Territory, his third son in Iowa Territory, and his fourth son in the State of Iowa, and all were born in the same log cabin, standing all the time on the same spot."

Village Of Andalusia

Captain B. W. Clark was the original owner of the village plat, which was a ]mrt of the old paper city of Rockport. In 1S43 Samuel Kenworthy opened a store in his log cabin, which stood near the river and ferry landing. In 1845 Colonel N. B. Buford bought at tax sale the lots of Rockport, built a store and warehouse, and named the place Andalusia. In 1866 S. M. Boney had the place re-surveyed and laid out into lots and blocks with streets named. In early days the village did a good prosperous business with the farmers and steamboat shipping trade. An election was held May 10, 1884, in the Town of Andalusia, at the hall of Robert Ross, for village organization; the total vote being seventy. For village organization, thirty-nine votes; against thirty-one votes. Vote was canvassed and approved May 12, 1884, by County Judge Lucian Adams and Justice of the Peace, David Hawes, and James W. Ballard. The third day of June, 1884, an election was held in the village of Andalusia for six village trustees, seventy-five votes being cast. Trustees elected were William Smith, John H. Brookman, James W. Ballard. I^enjamin Dill, J. H. Britton and H. Mosher.

Historic Rock Island Co U X T Y.

John Edgington was the first settler, coming here in 1S34 from Jefferson Coimty, Ohio, with his wife, who was Miss Susan Crabs, born in the same county, just married and together they came west. John Kistler was the next to locate in the vicinity, and who became quite prominent in local affairs.

The first boy born was a son to John and Susan Edgington, ilarch 20, 1835. named James. The first school was in 1840, taught b}^ a venerable Scotchman. A ver}- thrift}- class of the people were Germans, who came in an early day. The township is composed of prairie land and timber, about equalh-, with numerous fine and well improved farms. It is said that Buffalo Prairie derives its name from the fact that in the early settlement days a great portion of the prairie land had been long and strongly trodden and stamped by the buffalo in their earl}- grazing grounds, together with their deep trail paths leading to their drinking places.

Buffalo Prairie

Drury TowTiship was named in honor of the Drury famil)^ the earliest pioneers of the township. It is situated in the southwestern corner of the county and embraces one full congressional to^Tiship and parts of three others. It contains some verj- rough and broken upland and some smooth bottom land ; much of it, however, is of the best quality as to soil, and there are as some fine farms in this township as can be found in the county.

Seiver, W^illiam Huff. I., B. Elijah and James Essex. Matthew and Jeremiah LeQuatte. William Womacks, Solomon Simpson, Anthony Ricketts. John Ballard. John Harbaugh, James McPherson, Harry Hampton. S. Prentiss, William Hays. John Boruff. Joseph and Antoine Blair. L. V. Reed and M. H. Johnson.

The settlers who came to this country in the thirties and the early forties to carve" homes for themselves and families found thej' had undertaken no light and easy task. They had many difficulties to overcome, many hardships to endure. They indeed lived the "simple life," in rude log cabins and with few comforts, while luxuries were not thought of. All settlers were neighbors, although they might be miles apart. All were on a common level as to mode of life and largely as to resources. All were ' ' horney handed sons of toil." Their opportunities for mental growth and culture were of their own creation, and evolved from their own individualities. Xature was their teacher and nature's lessons were well learned. In those early days there were no schools for the children, no churches, no doctors, no mills, no stores, no roads, no bridges; just the rich soil, groves of timber, pure air and water, and a healthful climate. But the}' were hopeful, energetic, industrious and persevering. Years rolled b}', other settlers came, schools and churches, roads and bridges, railroads, cities and villages were built, and those who have lived until the present day have witnessed a growth and development that has been indeed marvelous.

Mr. J. A. Seiver speaks of "planing" corn; that is, took ears of corn, before getting too hard, and shaved them across the bottom of a jack plane and shaved off the kernels. The corn shavings making good mush and very good bread, yhortl}- after lie was married he went to Cambridge, Indiana, for a housekee]iing outfit. He got a Dutch oven, a skillet and an iron kettle, and these amoimted to their cooking utensils for some time. School teachers received so much a pu])il instead of a salary. A log cabin on the Miles Drury jslace was used for a school house, and another one on Section 29, commonly known as the ' ' bull pen." Miles Drury's barn was used as a church. The people were obliged to go to Drury's Landing, six miles away, for their mail, and paid twenty-five cents postage on every letter. Mrs. Rosman says when they went visiting, oxen and a lumljer wagon was their carriage. They sheared their sheep before they sold them in Indiana, and clotli was made from this wool by her mothei'. who carded, spun and wove it by haml.

Reynolds Drury settled at Drury's Landing. where he opened a general store, bought grain ami pork and did a flourishing business. A postofHce was established there at an early day and it became for a time the priuci|(al market place for this section of the covuitry. But the iniilding of railroads changed business centers and residents of the tnwn now tratle at Muscatine.

Isaiah and Silas Drury had a grist null, a saw mill and a wool-carding nuichine. located on Section 20, on Copperas Creek, built as nearly as can be recalled, in 1(S37 or 1838.

Residents of Drury Township boast of having some of as good, and as fine bred live stock as can be found anywhere, but to Buffalo Prairie Township belongs the distinction of raising "Alex," known for many years as the fastest horse in the world. Daniel Hayes had the honor of breeding and raising this speedy animal. Her time was 2:03^.

latter are located as follows: Ferdinand, in the southeast corner of the township, with Mrs. Ryan as postmistress; Foster, on Section 17, with J. H. Foster as postmaster; and Wrayville, in the center, with Helen Wray as postmistress. The name "Wrayville," was suggested by James Britton, who was teaching school at that point, when a name was wanted. The educational advantages of the township are fully equal to those of any agricultural community. We have nine schools whose districts are wholly within the township, and two union schools, one being in the district reaching into Mercer Count}'.