Sangamon County, Illinois - Biographical sketches, 1881 (part 10 of 21)

Martin S. Mosteller, M. Z>., Pleasant Plains, Illinois, was born in Salisbury township, Sangamon county, Illinois, on the twenty-first day of April, 1842. Son of Thomas and Chai'lotte (Morris) Mosteller; father of German descent and a native of Ohio, and mother a native of Tennessee. They were married in Franklin county, Indiana, July 21, 1827. There was a family of four sons and four daughters, six of whom are living, viz: Alice J., now the wife of Job Davenport; Dorcus, wife of Dr. F. P. Antler, of Petersburg; Christopher E., a practicing physician of Rising Sun, Polk county, Iowa; Martin S.; John H. A.; Eliza W,, now Mrs. Thomas Davis, of Vandalia, Missouri. His father, by occupation, was a carpenter, and died in Cartwright township, February 22, 1881; mother died March 2, 1865. The subject of this sketch was reared on a farm until he was twenty-one years old, when he commenced reading medicine under his brother, Dr. Christopher E. Mosteller, and remained with him one year. In 1867, attended a course of lectures at Cincinnati Eclectic Medical College, and in 1869, another course, when he graduated with honor. In 1864, married Miss Sarah M. Antler, a daughter of Leonard Antler; she was born in Morgan county, Illinois, May 11, 1842. By this union there were five children, four of whom are living, viz: F'reddie F., Albert A., Maud M., Bertie B. The doctor came to Pleasant Plains in 1870, where he engaged in the practice of his profession, where he is meeting with a lucrative pj*actice. In politics is a Republican.

Lewis A. Moiory, farmer, post office. Pleasant Plain*; was^born in Smithfield, Providence county, Rhode Island, May 27, 1821; son of Levi and Alpha (Aldrich) Mowry, native of Rhode Island, where they were married, June 12, 1814. There was a family of eight children, seven sons and one daughter, four of which are living at the present writing: Duty, Lewis A., Martin C, and Maranda B., wife of Baxter Arnold, of Rhode Island. Mr. Levi Mowry died in Rhode Island, October 10, 1803; mother died in Sangamon county, Illinois, July 28, 1868. They were members of the Free-will Baptist Church. Mr. Mowry, in early life, learned the trade of boot and shoe making, at Waterford, Massachusetts, which he followed about four years, when he was employed as a clerk in a general store, where he remained six years. In 1842, married Miss Johanna M. Taft, a daughter of Benona and Nancy Taft, native of Rhode Island, where she was Born, December 28, 1820. The fruits of this marriage is four children, three of whom are living, Charles L. B., born Sept. 1, 1845, died Aug. 18, 1840; Mary M., born Feb. 21, 1848 ; Chas. L.,bornFeb. 5, 1855;IrvingL.,born May 17,1861.

Mr. Mowry in politics, is a Republican, and has affiliated with the party since its organization; has one hundred and thirty-four acres of land under a high state of cultivation, valued at fG5 per acre; raises sixty-five acres of corn; twenty acres of rye; ten acres of oats; turns out eighty-five head of hogs, yearly. Mr. and Mrs. Mowry came to the county in limited circumstances, but pulled together, and they have made a fine property and home.

Robert S. Phmkett, farmer, was born in Cabarras county. North Carolina, on the 15th day of June, 1808; son of John H. and Elizabeth (Purvines) Plunkett. In about 1804, they were married in North Carolina, where there were eight children born. In 1823, left his home in North Carolina, with teams, for the Sangamo country; camping out, and was seven weeks making their journey. He first located on the place where S. P. Plunkett now lives, and moved into a log cabin about twelve by fourteen feet, where he remained until the following fall; living in it without any floor or a window glass. He entered land and made a farm, and remained until his death. Mr. Plunkett, in politics, was an old line Whig. The subject of this sketch was reared on a farm, and received but a limited school education, in a log cabin. In 1829, married Miss Ruth Combs, a daughter of Samuel Combs, a native of Kentucky, where she was born in Green county. The fruits of this marriage were six children, four boys and two daughters, five of whom are living, viz: Martha A., Asa W., Jason D., Richard M. J., John N.; Rebecca J., Martha, deceased. Mrs. Ruth Plunkett died in 1844. For bis second wife, married Miss Ann

Alexander, a daughter of Joshua Alexandei'. Mr. Plunkett has been a farmer all his life, and has lived on the same place, with the exception of one winter. Has one hundred and ten acres of land, ninety acres under a high state of cultivation - valued at $75 per acre. Mr. Plunkett has been identified with the county all his life; has seen the prairies, in their wild, uncultivated state, covered with wild game, to one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Mr. Plunkett was an old hunter, and many a deer, turkey and wolf have bit the dust by his unerring aim. For his third wife, married Mrs. Joseph Grateley;her maiden name was Hind; she was born in Tennessee. By this union there were two children, Nancy L. and Ruth. Mrs. Plunkett died February, 1879.

G. M. Menshmo was born August 7, 1830, in Sangamon county. W. P. Renshaw, his father, was born November 7, 1800, near Salisbury, Georgia. His mother, Martha Nesbet, was born November 8, 1794, near Lexington, Kentucky. They were married in Bond county, Illinois, December 31, 1818, and came to Sangamon county in 1821, locating in what is now Cartwright township. Seven children were born to them, viz: Jane, Mary A., now Mrs. S. L. Harrison; Margaret E., now Mrs. F. Butler; James N., deceased; Barbara, now Mrs. Haughton; John S. and WiJiam P. G. M. was married October 22, 1800, to Matilda F. Parker, who was born in Robertson county, Tennessee. They had three children, two daughters and one son. Mr. Renshaw has a fine farm of seventy-six acres, all of which is under cultivation.

William Iliggms, farmer, post office, Richland; was born in Cape May county, New Jersey, on the 28th day of July, 1812, where they were married. Son of Caleb and Charlotte (Little) Riggins. By this union there were ten children, one oied in infancy. The children were as follows: William, Ellen, James, Jonas, John, Jeremiah, Samuel, Sarah and Mary, of which one is living at the present writing. In 1839, his parents emigrated to Mason county, where he entered land and made a farm, and remained until his death, which occurred about 1852; his mother died some years later. When William was twenty-one years of age, he went to work in a ship-yard, where he remained three years. He afterwards rented land, but not meeting with financial success he came West. In 1834, married Martha Mosslander. She was born in Cumberland county. New Jersey, July 28, 1813. The fruits of this marriage was six children, two of whom are now living: Eliza- beth, now Mrs. Jane Tripp; Mary, now Mrs. Franklin H. Wood. Mrs. Martha Riggins died April 4, 1844. He again married Mrs. Rathsack, whose maiden name was Bohme. She was born in Germany, January 22, 1827. There were two children - Annie and William H. Mr. Riggins is one of the large and well-to-do farmers of the county; has one hundred and eighty acres of land, valued at $50.00 per acre. Mr. Riggins came to the county in an early day, without means, but by close attention to business has made a fine home. In politics, was a Republican.

Edwin '^atts, farmer, post office, Farmingdale, Avas born in Sangamon county, on the 14th day of June, 1839; son of Charles and Elizabeth (Innes) Watts, who emigrated to Sangamon county, in 1833. The subject of this sketch was reared on a farm and received a good business education, being a graduate at Bell, Bryant &

Stratton's Business College, at Chicago, Illinois. In 1860, embarked in the cattle trade, in Kansas, which he prosecuted some twelve years, when he returned to Cartwright township, where he has followed the same business in connection with farming. In October, 18Y1, married Miss Laura E. Rickard, a daughter of S. P. Rickard and Sophia Emet. She was born in Sangamon county, September 6, 1847. There are two children, Mary E., born May 21, 187.5; Laura E., born November 2, 1879. Mr. Watts has a beautiful home with one hundred and twenty acres of land, all of which is under cultivation, valued at sixty-five dollars per acre; raises two hundred acres of corn, fifty acres of wheat, turns out four hundred head of cattle and four hundred head of hogs yearly.

The township of Chatham is situated in the southern part of Sangamon county, being township fourteen north, range six west of the third principal meridian. Originally, the township was three-fourths prairie, the timber land being confined to points along Panther and Lick creeks The fears of the early settlers have never been realized that the timber would soon all be destroyed, for in 1881 there is more timber in the aggregate, but not same quality, than when John Campbell selected his land on Lick creek, and cleared away timber for his farm.

The first settler of Chatham township was John Campbell, in 1818, who arrived on the 22d day of Mai'ch, and located on Lick creek, in the west part of the town. John Campbell was born November 4, 1790, in Carter county, Tennessee. His father, Jeremiah Campbell, settled there before the American Revolution, and was a soldier during the Revolution, under General Francis Marion. He lived to be about one hundred years old. His youngest son, Jackson, was the owner of the old homestead at the beginning of the great rebellion. The farm had been in the family about one hundred years. John Campbell enlisted in a company from Carter county, in the second war with England, served six months, re-enlisted, and served until March, 1815. He was an ensign in the last campaign, and drew a pension to the end of his life. He remained in Tennessee until 1818, when he moved to Madison county, Illinois, and was there married, November 6, 1818, to LavinaParkison, who was born February 21, 1803. They had six children - Alfred C, William P., Jeremiah, Josiah W., Peter C, and Caroline.

Mrs. Lavinah Campbell died December 13, 1853, and John Campbell was married in 1855, to M rs. Margery Carson, whose maiden name was Parkison, a sister of his first wife. She died March 5, 1870. John Campbell died February, 18Y5, on the farm where he settled in 1818, five miles west of Chatham, leaving a large estate, which he had accumulated by industry and economy. He, as nearly all the earliest settlers, took part in the Black Hawk war. The first mill in the county, built by Daniel Lisle, was sold by him, and after changing hands once or twice, was bought by Mr. John Campbell, and moved to his farm on Lick creek, where he put it up and ran it for years, each customer bringing his own horses to run it. That kind of mills went out of use long ago, and one of the burrs was used by Mr, Campbell as a doorstep, to the day of his death.

Henry Brown was probably the second settler in the township. He arrived in the summer of 1819, from the South, and remained but a few years, when he left the State.

1819, was born in Bourbon county, Kentucky, June 8, 1*791. He served fourteen months in the war of 1812-13, half the time as first Lieutenant, and was then promoted to Captain. Margaret Norton was born October 25, 1793, in Bourbon county, also. They were married there, February 20, 1814. The family moved to Sangamon county, Illinois, arriving November, 1819, in what is now Chatham township, first at a place called Turkey Point, and in the spring of

1820, moved further up Lick creek, and made a permanent settlement five miles west of the present town of Chatham, Mr. Darneille learned to write by fire-light, and in the absence of paper, peeled buckeye bark from the trees, and when it became dry, did his writing on that, until he learned to keep accounts of all his business transactions. He acquired such fame as an accurate and legible penman, that he became the neighborhood letter-writer. He was on the first grand jury that was ever empanneled in Sangamon county, May 1, 1821. They held their deliberations, some sitting on a pile of rails, and some on gopher-hills out on the prairie, within the present limits of Springfield. He was elected as one of the Representatives of Sangamon county in the State Legislature of 1840, the first that ever assembled in Springfield. Mr. Darneille died March 10, 1854, and his widow April 30, 1875, both on the farm on which they settled in 1820.

Levi Harbur, and Samuel Harbour, brothers, (but spelling their name diflferently,) also came in 1819. Levi Harbur was born November 21, 1*797, in Garrard county, Kentucky. When he was a child his parents moved to Christian county, in the same State. He was there married, June 29, 1817, to Eleanor Ashley, and moved to Madison county, Illinois, in September following, accompanied by his wife and his brother Samuel. He left his brother in Madi.- 8on county, and with his wife went to the southern part of Missouri, remaining one and a half years, and had one child there. He returned to Madison county, where Mrs. Eleanor Harbur died September 10, 1819. Leaving his child in the care of a friend, he came to what is now Sangamon county, one and a quarter miles east of the town of Loami. He went eighty miles to Edwardsville, obtained a license, returned to the San-ga-ma country, and was married March 25, 1820, to Mary Sawyers. Mrs. Mary Harbur died September 8, 1857, and Mr. Harbur married Frances Y^oung, October 1, 1861.

Levi Harbur says that the snow of 1830-31 was three feet four inches on an average, and that he resolved that if it ever went ofl:', Illinois would not hold him long. The snow went ofl^, but he did not. I have measured a stump near where Mr. H. resides. It is a white oak, eight feet high and two feet in diameter at the top. Mr. Harbur says he cut it not more than two feet above the snow, so that the snow must have been six feet deep at that place, but that was drifted.

Samuel Harbour was born September 24, 1799, in Garrard county, Kentucky, and was taken by his parents, in infancy, to Christian county. In 1817, he accompanied his brother Levi to Madison county Illinois, and from there he came to what is now Chatham township, Sangamon county, arriving October, 1819. He was married

March, 1823, to Elizabeth Briscc e, who died February, 1824, shortly after the birth of their child. Mr. Harbour married the second time, Elizabeth Lindley, being his second wife. Mr. Harbour died in 1874.

Simon Lindley, came in the spring of 1820. He was born January 20, 1769, in Orange county. North Carolina. Anna Standley was born February 3, 1766, in Kent county, Delaware. Her parents moved to Pendleton District, South Carolina. Simon Lindley and Anna Standley were there married, July 14, 1789. They came to what became Sangamon county, arriving April 14, 1820, in what is now Chatham township. Mr. Lindley was a very eccentric man, and many anecdotes are related of him, both in connection with his preaching and in private life. Mr. Lindley was also a man of liberal education. He was educated at some college in Philadelphia, but whether he was a graduate or not, I cannot say. After the town of Springfield was laid out, there was a discrepancy between the surveyors of that and the former town of Calhoun, and Mr. Lindley was called on to re-survey it and harmonize the differences, which he did, to the satisfaction of all parties. Mr. Lindley was also a minister of the Regular, or Predestination Baptist Church, and preached the gospel as the occasion offered. It is related of him that on one occasion he was holding forth to a congregation not far frOm his own house, and in the midst of his sermon he heard a noise to which he gave instant attention. Turning to his hearers, he said: "Brethren, the trap is down. Hold fast to the text till I return, and I will finish my sermon." Leaving the stand, he went to the place where he had set a trap, and which had been sprung on a wolf. He instantly dispatched it, re-set the trap, and returned and finished his discourse. Mr. Lindley died in 1827. His widow survived him many years.

Thomas and David Alexander, Andrew Starr, Peter Ballou, Randall and Joseph Davis, John Wychoff, Stephen and John Neal, Joseph Hilliard, Henry Hall, William and David Workman, Eli Harlan and Allen Bridges, were also among the early settlers of the township.

Thomas Alexander was born about 1768, in Ireland, and bis parents came to America when he was about four years old, landing at Charleston, South Carolina. Lynna Goodlett was born October 11, 1780, in Greenville District, South Carolina. They were there married. In 1806, they moved to Christian county, near Hopkinsvilla, Kentucky, where they had two children, and moved to Sangamon county, Illinois, arriving in October, 1828, three miles east of Auburn. In 1829, they moved to what is now Chatham township, south of Lick creek. He died August 12, 1844.

Daniel Neal was born about IVVO, in Bedford county, Virginia. He was married there to Polly Booth, a native of the same county. They moved to Franklin county, Tennessee, in the fall of 1808. JDied in 1838. The family then moved to Bourbon county, Kentucky. They moved to Sangamon county, Illinois, arriving November 10, 1823, in what is now Chatham township.

Silas Harlan was born January 5, 1781, in Berkley^ ounty, Virginia. He went to Christian county, Kentucky, and came to Sangamon county, Illinois, arriving in 1827. He entered about one thousand acres of land, and improved a farm, three and a half miles south of Chatham. Elizabeth Messick was born March 26, 1809, in Rockingham county, Virginia, and her father moved the next year to Christian county, Kentucky. In 18-:7, Elizabeth came to Sangamon county with the family of John French. Silas Harlan and Elizabeth Messick were married September 10, 1829.

Jacob Miller was born in 1789, in Kentucky. He was a soldier in the War of 1812, mustered in at Winchester, Kentucky, and was in the battle of Tippecanoe. Lucina Poats was born December 18, 1793, in Stafford county, Virginia, and was taken to Clark county, Kentucky, when she was quiie young. Jacob Miller and Lucina Poats were there married, in 1812. Moved to Sangamon county, Illinois, arriving December, 1824, in what is now the northwest corner of Chatham township. He died in 1862.

William Gibson was born about 1780, near Staunton, Virginia, and was taken by his parents, at six or seven years of age, to Fayette county, Kentucky. He was married in Boone county, in 1809, to Mary Holman. She was born July 29, l789, in Woodford county. Her father, Edward Holman, and Jesse Holman - for many years Judge of the Supreme Court of Indiana - were brothers. She was, consequently, a cousin to Hon. Wm. S. Holman, of the Fifth Congressional District of Indiana. Moved to Sangamon county, Illinois, arriving November 1, 1829, and settled in what is now the northwest corner of Chatham township.

the war with Mexico broke out he enlisted in Captain Morris' company, and served until his regiment was discharged, holding the commission of Lieutenant. When the rebellion broke out he raised a company, October 2, 1861, and became Captain of Company E., Thirty-second Illinois Infantry, under Colonel John Logan, and fought in all the battles from Fort Donelson to the sea. At Pittsburg Landing, his company lost thii-ty-two men, killed and wounded, out of fifty-six in action. He served three years and four months, and was honorably discharged. Captain Campbell moved, in 1851, to the vicinity of Mowequa, Shelby county, where he now resides.

The first death was that of Jane Kimes, who died with flux. Her coffin was made from timber split out of a tree, and hewn and dressed with a broad-axe by John Darneille.

The first school, as stated, was on section nineteen, and the house in which it was held was a small log one of a very primitive style. Improvements have since been made in this respect, and the township is now pretty well supplied with school houses, with accommodations much superior to those in the beginning. There are now seven school houses in the township, outside of the village, and one in the village, having a total value of '$6,000 or 17,000.

The pioneers of Chatham were mostly a Godfearing people, and as opportunity offered, assembled themselves for religious worship. Separated from home and friends, far away from the sound of the church-going bells, they earnestly craved the bread of life, and the minister of the gospel, of whatever name or creed, r* ceived a royal welcome. Rev. Simon Lindley was the harbiijger who went before, to prepare the way for other disciples to follow after. The meetings were first held in the private dwelling houses of the pioneers, then in the school houses, and lastly in the more modern church buildings that now point their spires Heavenward. The Advent Christians have an organization and meet at the school house on section nineteen; the United Brethren have an organization and a neat house of worship on section thirty. The Presbyterians, Methodists and Baptists have each houses of worship and effective organizations in the village of Chatham.

The township of Chatham was organized, and first election was held in April, 1861. The township records being destroyed by fire, in 18*79, the officers of the township cannot be given, save those of 1880 and 1881, which are as follows:

1881. - Edward R. Thayer, Supervisor; Leonard Ledbrook, Town Clerk; George W. Greenwood, Assessor; John G. Ransom, Collector; James M. Darneille, Noah D. Mason, Henry Brawner, Commissioners of Highways; E. J. Short, John A. Neil, Justices of the Peace; Arza

Village Of Chatham

The village of Chatham was laid out and platted on he 22dday of October, 1836, by Luther N. Ransom. Several additions have since been made and it now comprises a portion of section seven, township of Ball, and section twelve, of Chatham. The village is pleasantly situated, and is of a home-like appearance.

The first house was built by Mr. Ransom, of logs, and was situated where the post office now stands, on Main street. This house was erected the same season in which the village was platted. But little more was done that season; in fact, it was not until 1852, after the completion of the present Chicago, Alton & St. Louis Railroad, that the village began to grow.

A post office was established at Chatham, in 1838, the mail being carried by the stage running from Springfield to St. Louis and return. George

Crocker was the first to hold the commission of Uncle Sam with the privilege of signing his name and affixing the title of "P. M." to it. Since Mr. Crocker's day up to 1881, the following named have held the office in order named: Peter Freeman, Henry Chew, Joseph Whitney, Curtis J, Norton, Nehemiah Wright, S. S. Sabine, E. B, Smith, S. S. Sabine, Jr., Francis Sabine.

A school was held in 183V in the smoke house of Luther N. Ransom, by Roxana S. Lyman. This was the first in the place. A school house was not erected until 1839. This was a frame building and did good service for the purpose for which it was built, for nineteen years. The house is now used as a grocery store by Chailes A. Smith. The next was a frame building, two stories in height, which was erected in 1858, at a cost of $2,400. It is yet used and well answers the purpose for which it was built. It has three large recitation rooms, with halls and closets. The graded school system was adopted in 18 - .

The religious development of the place has kept pace with other improvements, there being now three good church buildings and organizations - Presbyterian, Methodist and Baptist.

The Presbyterian Church was organized at the house of Rev. D. Whitney, two miles north of Chatham township, June 21, 1835, by Revs. D. Whitney and T. A. Spillman The following named comprised the membership on its organization : William Thornton, Judith P. Thornton, Mary E. Thornton, Emma D. Thornton, Martha W. Thornton, Mildred R. Jones, Louisa Whitney, Alonzo H. Whitney, Julia M. Whitney, William H. and Eliza Meteer, Harvey and Rebecca Ann Hall. The same date of organization William Thornton was elected elder, since which time the following named have been elected, and have served in the office : Luther N. Ransom, Cornelius Lyman, William W. Meteer. February 3, 1841, William Holland and Ashal Thayer; April 7, 1844, Cyrus W. Van Deren, Harvey H. Hall, J. R. Lewis ; January 15, 1859, John Smith, Henry Thayer; February 14, 1864, Joseph B. Whitney, James Melvin, John L. Turner; March 5, 1876, William Lockridge. Of the foregoing all are thought to be dead, save James Melvin, Henry Thayer and Cyrus W. Van Deren, who are the present ruling elders. The following named have served as pastors or stated supplies for the church : Rev. Dewey Whitney, William C.

Greenleaf, William Fithian, Josiah Porter, A. M. Dixon, Noah J3ishop, E. W. Thayer, W. B. Spence, John H. Harris, John D. Jones, H. G. Pollock and H. V. D. Nevius. The first meetings of the church were held at private houses and school houses, and it was not until 1851 that a house of worship was erected. At this time, a building was erected, at a cost of 11,300. Subsequently it was remodeled, at a cost of |800. In 1875, a parsonage was erected, at a cost of |1,600. The church is now out of debt, and has a membership of thirty-five. A good Sunday school has been kept going for many years, and is now under the superintendency of Henry Thayer.

First Baptist Church

The first Baptist families that settled in Chatham, came in 1854, but it was not for some years after that an attempt was made to organize a church. Rev. A. Stott was the first to proclaim Baptist principles in the place, and Rev. M. V. Kitzmiller the second one. In February, 1866, a revival occurred in the village, in great part among the pupils of the high school, and about fifty experienced a change of heart. On Saturday, March 81, 1866, the Baptists met in council. A confession of faith and covenant was read and adopted. They met again April 28, 1866, and Rev. M. V. Kitzmiller, of Girard, and Rev. A. Gross, of Springfield, being present, the^ First Baptist church of Chatham was formally organized, with the following named constituent menabers: James Gibson, Margaret Gibson, C. J. DeWitt, Helen Smith, Thomas Beerup, Sinai Beerup, Jefferson Wright, America Wright, Moses Winslow, Mary Campbell, Charles Aldrich, Lucinda Wright, James Miller, Hannah Winslow, Elizabeth Aldrich, Mary Aldrich, Anna Aldrich, Melinda Miller, Mary Wright. The day after organization, several parties were "buried with Christ in baptism," the first in the place. Subsequently the church built a neat house of worship, where they meet regularly.

Medical

Dr. Alansan Stockwell was the first physician in the place. In 1837, he "hung out his shingle" and offered his professional services to all within call. The people were too healthy or too perverse to get sick, and Dr. Stockwell, while here, was compelled to labor as a mechanic or day

Dr. Nehemiah Wright came in 1850, and yet remains. The estimation in which he is held, is testified by the gold-headed cane which he carries - a present from those whom he has professionally served.

Business Of Chatham

In the summer of 1837, Luther N. Ransom erected a building for a store-room, which was occupied that season by Daniel Miflflin, with a stock of general merchandise. This was the beginning of trade in Chatham. Since that date many have come and gone. Business for a time would flourish, and then hard times would ensue. The following now comprises the business of the village:

Chatham was without mill privileges until 1856, when S. N. FuUenwider built a large gristmill, with three run of stone, and which has from the beginning had the reputation of manufacturing a superior article of liour. The mill has changed hands several times, and is now owned and run by M. R. Thayer & Co.

Tlie village of Chatham is incorporated, but, as the records were destroyed by fire, the officers for 1881 alone are given: Village Trustees, Thos. Butler, President; J. M, Darneille, E. B. Smith, Jas. Headley, D. Keller. Village Clerk, Z.T. McGinnis. Police Magistrate, S. S. Sabine. Village Marshal, W. H. Decker. Street Commissioner, C. W. Shipley.

The Bank of Chatham was organized in the fall of 1879, and opened for business January 20, 1880. The laws of the State being such as to prohibit the organization of a joint stock company for banking, it was made a partnership concern. The following named embraced the original partners: Benjamin Caldwell, Jesse H. Smith, Edwin B. Smith, E. F. McConnell & Son, Peter C. Campbell, John Workman, L. F. Hamilton, Edward V. Lewis, E. W. Pike, and M. R. Thayer. The first election for officers resulted in the choice of B. F. Caldwell, President; E. B. Smith, Vice President; Edward V. Lewis, Cashier. The officers are elected yearly, and in 1881, the old oflQcers were re-elected but subsequently E. V. Lewis resigned, and John T. Lewis was elected to fill the vacancy. The bank does a general banking business, receiving deposits and selling exchange on all the principal cities. From its commencement its business has steadily increased, its success being beyond all expectation. The deposits now, ( in the fall of 1881) amounting from $50,000 to $60,000. Being an unlimited partnership, and the members of the firm being among the wealthiest men in Chatham and vicinity, makes it a specially safe place of deposit. A few changes have occurred in the number of partners, it now embracing B. F. Caldwell, Edwin B. Smith, Peter C. Campbell, John Workman, M. R. Thayer, Matthew Cloyd and John T. Lewis, all of whom are well known business men, the aggregate wealth of which amounts to thousands of dollars.

The history of Chatham township is continued by biographical mention of a number of representative citizens, a lack of space prevents us from inserting many others who would add an interest to the volume.

Hiram Alexander. - The early progenitor of the Alexander family, in Sangamon county, was Thomas Alexander, born in Ireland, about 1768. At four years of age his parents moved to America, landing at Charleston, South Carolina; he married Lynna Goodlett, born October 11, 1780; they moved to Christian county, Kentucky, in 1806, where they had two children. They came to Sangamon county in October, 1828, and settled in Chatham township, 1829, on eighty acres of land.

Thomas Alexander died December 18, 1855; Mrs. Alexander died August 12, 1844. Their daughter, May Ann, born in Kentucky, 1810, married John L. Dr<?nnan, in 1830, had three children. Mr. Drennan died in 1842.

David Alexander, born in Kentucky, October 3, 1814; came to Sangamon county, with his father, in 1828; married Catharine Darneille, March 13, 1833; she was born in Bourbon county, Kentucky, August 2, 1817; was a daughter of John Darneille, who came to Sangamon county from Kentucky in 1818, and was one of the first families that settled in Chatham township. David Alexander had fourteen children, seven of whom died in early life.

John T., born December 25, 1835, was among the first to respond to the call for seventy-five thousand troops to crush the Rebellion; served his three months, re-enlisted for three years, and enlisted as veteran, January, 1864; he lost his right hand at St. Charles, Arkansas, by premature discharge of a cannon, in firing a salute over Lee's surrender; lives on home farm.

David S., born November 20, 1842; enlisted in the war, August 13, 1861, was discharged one year later for physical disability; died March 10, 1866, from disease contracted in the army.

Hiram Alexander, the subject of our sketch, was born March 30, 1847; enlisted in the Missouri Eleventh Infantry, March 14, 1864 - then seventeen years old, for three years; served until July 14, 1865, when he was discharged for physical disability; married March 9, 1873, to Mary E. Van Doren, born December 3, 1856, daughter of P. C. Van Doren, who was born in New Jersey, April 1 8, 1 8 1 8. In 1 824, the family moved to Ohio, he married Margaret Hathaway, and with his father's family, moved to Sangamon county, settling in Curran township, May 22, 1839.

Mr. Hiram Alexander is now living near the old home, four miles southwest of Chatham village, on a farm which he is cultivating in the finest manner. His farm is mostly fenced with living hedges; his buildings are commodious, and are surrounded with fruit and ornamental trees, all of which bespeak the thrifty farmer.

William, born October 1, 1849, married Emma Price, and now lives in Loami township; Mary Belle, born June 17, 1856, lives at home with her mother; Cyrus M., iDorn January 29, 1859, lives at home, managing farm, and settling his father's estate. David Alexander, died January 28,1881, on the farm, where he settled wilh his father, in 1829. His educational facilities were very limited, yet he acquired a business education sufficient for general purposes, conducting all with the strictest integrity. He, by his untiring industry, added over six hundred acres to the original purchase, of eighty acres.

In his last will he made a very judicious division of his estate, among his children; giving the widow the "old home," on which she now resides, with her children settled near her.

Peter C. Camphell. - Around the "Campbell family" cluster many interesting reminiscences of the early settlers of Sangamon county. There appears to be several lines of ancestry in the family name in the county, and the nearness to which they may trace their genealogy is a matter not definitely arrived at. The diflerent lines as represented here seem to have originated in one of the then "British Isles." Whatever may have been their land of general ancestry, each line, from the earliest knowledge of them, has promptly responded to the country's call in the defense of her rights and liberties. And that love of freedom, and country's good, that so animated their progenitors in the old French and Indian war - so quickly followed by our Revolutionary struggle, has been re-animated, in the generations that followed, in the War of 1812, and other wars since that time. The rebellion in our own States found many ready to place their lives upon the country's altar, and not a few sacrificed them there. Jeremiah Campbell, the direct ancestor of P. C. Campbell, was settled in Tennessee before the Revolution, was in the immediate command of the intrepid General Marion during the war, sharing alike his dangers and frugal fare, even potatoes baked in the ashes, and eaten without any condiments whatever; he lived to near one hundred years of age. He had two sons, John and Jackson; of Jackson little is known beyond his living in 1860 on the home farm in Tennessee, which the family had owned one hundred years, John Campbell was born in Carter county Tennessee, November 4, 1790, he enlisted for the War of 1812, into a company from that county, and served six months, and then re-enlisted and served until March, 1815. He was a Lieutenant in the last campaign, and drew pension until death. In 1818 he moved to Madison county. Illinois, and on November 6, 1818, married Lavina Parkison, who was born February 21, 1803; her family moving from Tennessee at same time of Campbell family. Mr. Campbell then moV( d to Sangamon county, arriving March 22, 1819, on Lick creek, in Chatham township, and they had seven children. Mrs. Lavina Campbell died December 13, 1853, and Mr. Campbell married Margery Carson, sister of his first wife; she died March 5, 1870, and Mr. Campbell died January 29, 1875, - 85 years of age - on the farm where he settled in 1819, five miles west of Chatham, leaving a very large estate, the accumulation of years of hard labor and economy, preserving always the strictest integrity, making his word as good as the bonded paper. He took part in the Black Hawk war, as did most of the settlers of that day. The first mill built in the county, built by Daniel Lisle, after being sold once or twice, came into his hands, he moved it to Lick creek, where he put it up and ran it for many years. One of the burrs of that mill was used by Mr. C. as a door-step until he died. Alfred C. Campbell, son of John, was born July 22, 1819, was the first white child born in the townshijj of Chatham, and the third one born in the county; one Joseph E. McCoy being born March 13, 1819, was the first one in the county. Alfred C. married Polly Foster, daughter of Peyton Foster, who had reached Loami townshij^ in 1826, from Kentucky, May 13, 1838. June 10, 1846, he enlisted with Illinois Infantry for the Mexican war, as second Lieutenant under Col. Baker. After the death of Captain Morse at Tampico, Mexico, he commanded the company at Vera Cruz and Cerro Gordo. When the re-

HISTORY OF SANGAMON COUNTYbellion broke out, he was Captain of company E, Thirty-second Illinois Infantry, under Col. John Logan, and fought in all the battles from Fort Donelson to the sea His company at battle of Pittsburg Landing lost thirty-two of its fiftysix men. Wm. P. Campbell was born November 4, 1820; also a soldier in the Mexican war, contracted disease, from which he ciied, twenty years after. Peter C. Campbell, youngest son of John Campbell, was born January 19, 1882, and has always lived on same home farm; May 5, 1852, married Amanda E. Carson, who was born April 17, 1829; her father, John Carson, was born August 10, 1*794, on Saluda creek. South Carolina, removed to Tennessee, was in War of 1812, came to Madison county, married, and in 1820 or '21 came to Chatham township, on Lick creek. Mr. Campbell has had three children, two died early. Rachel C, born May 5, 1857, married Geo. W. Hunter, November 8, 1880. Mr. Hunter is a man of energetic business character, and as he has located with Mr. Campbell, will be a very serviceable assistant in managing his large estate.

Mr. Campbell had no advantage for school beyond that offered in the log house and slab-seat, common in that day. Beside the very poor facilities, he had a long distance co go, and the work on the farm often detained him, so as to render his days at school very short, yet he, by general business application, has acquired sufficient education to transact any business necessary. He has never connected himself directly with any church organization, yet he has been a general attendant with the Presbyterian people.

He has always maintained the strictest integrity in his business, making his verbal obligation good as his written one. He is now living within one mile of where he was born; has a fine residence, with suitable other buildings, and finds ample employment in the general management of his large interests. He has added, year by year, to his lands until he now has in one body fifteen hundred acres of as well selected land, comprising timber, prairie and living water, as Illinois can produce.

Rev Wm. J. Chapin. - The first settler of the "Chapin family" in America, as far back as records show, was Deacon Samuel Chapin, who settled in Springfield, Massachusetts, in 1642, and from whom all bearing the name are presumed to have originated. The name of Chapin is represented in almost every profession and occupation in the county. Probably no family name presents more distinguished men, among them eminent clergymen, lawyers, doctors and statesmen, and not a few prominent capitalists, who, by dint of well directed application in the various forms of business, have amassed princely fortunes.

The subject of this sketch was a native of Grandville, Washington county. New York, being born September 2, 1821. His father, Salma Chapin, was a blacksmith, a "Stalwart of the Old Stock." In the spring of 1832, Chapin, Senior, moved with his family to Wayne county, New York, where in connection with his trade, he worked a farm.

The advantages for education in the new country were limited, and W. J. had no other school than country schools, except three terms at the Marion Academy in 1842-43.

In 1839, during a series of revival meetings, he made profession of faith, from that until 1845, when he was licensed to preach. He worked upon the farm, devoting his leisure hours to study.

In same year he came to the State of Illinois, and taught one term of school. Also taught one term of school in Jo Daviess county, pursuing his studies while teaching, and during intervals of school.

In 1847, he went to Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, where he was formally ordained as Baptist clergyman. Here he remained one year, showing good results from his labors. Here, February 16, 1848, he married Harriet L. Horton. In same year (1848) he went to Aztalon, where he was pastor of that church, and preaching also at Lake Mills, although there was but one charge. Here he labored, most successfully, eight years, holding several series of meetings, adding many to the church. In 1856, he was called to Manston, Wisconsin, when the church was in its infancy, having no edifice for worship. Here he remained four years, greatly increasing his membership; besides, he hfd put his efforts into building a church, and even had the building up and covered, when he was called to Reedsburg, Wisconsin, in 1860. In 1868, he was re-called to Manston, remaining until 1865. During that time he finished the church, and awakened the people to such a sense of duty that his membership was greatly enlarged. From 1865 to 1873 he did a vast amount of hard preliminary work, at Bangor, Salem, Fall River and Windsor, (all in Wisconsin), showing most happy results in his every field of labor. In 1873, he removed to Troy, Madison county, Illinois, remaining until

1877, producing wonderful results. Also supplying at Edwardsville and other occasional -places. In December, 18*77, he went to Chatham, Sangamon county, where he is now, (1881 ), engaged in connection with his pastorate at Auburn.

He has ever been an earnest, self-sacrificing laborer in the ministry, and his efforts have been productive of the happiest testimonials of good.

Mrs. Harriet L. Chapin died at Manston, Wisconsin, January '2 5, 1860. Mr. Chapin married Lucinda M. Marshall, at Aztalan, July 11, 1860. Children, Lucius H., born July 2, 1849; married in August, 1876, to Emma W, Nutter; Edwin L , born April 25, 1857; Hattie J., August 26, 1861.

Thomas C. Cloyd. - The first representative of the large and favorably known '-Cloyd family" in Sangamon county, was one David Cloyd, born in Virginia about 1766. He married in Virginia, had three children, and in 1815 moved to Washington county, Kentucky. In October, 1825, he settled in Sangamon county, Curran township. He died in 1839; his widow died soon after. His son, Thomas, was born in Virginia, .January 14, 1798; married Anna Withrow, born in Virginia, December 29, 1795. In 1811, her family had moved to Washington county, Kentucky, and she there married. April 27, 1820; moved to Curran township with his father in October, 1825. They had six children, all of whom became heads of families, and all are now (1881) living, the youngest being fifty years of age. Mr. Thomas Cloyd died September 21, 1878. He went to the field to catch a refractory horse. As he was soon after found dead in the field, with no mai-ks of violence upon him, it was supposed the effort and excitement attendant upon it had resulted in heart disease, to which he was predisposed. His widow is now (1881) living, in her eighty-sixth year of age. His death was the first and only one that has occurred in Thomas Cloyd's family. Thomas Gordon Cloyd, his son, was born in Sangamon county .June 5, 1827. Married September 27, 1849, Priscilla J. Banscom, born December 31, 1831. Bought a farm in section one, township Chatham, where he lived till October 20, 1880, when he moved to Christian county. In early life, he became identified with the Methodist Episcopal Church; was an active member for many years. Later in life, he took fellowship with the Christian Church, of which he is now a zealous member. They had two sons and one daughter. Thomas C. Cloyd was born December 24, 1850. Lived on home farm until twenty-eight years of age (187s). He attended the public schools of the county, with one year in the excellent schools of Chatham. In 1871, he entered upon a course of study in the Normal school of Kirksville, Missouri. His preparation had been so thorough, that he entered one year in advance, enabling him to graduate in three years - June 25, 1874. He followed teaching as a profession for six years, with marked results. April 24, 1879, he married Julia A. Winston, of Springfield. They had one child born June 6, 1880, He is now on a farm adjoining the village limits of Chatham. While engaged in farming very ardently, he is also following his literary pursuits. John C. Cloyd born September 3, 1853, lived on home farm until April, 1881, when he moved to Christian county, and is still with his father. Married Mary Staley, of Auburn, September 2, 1880. His opportunities for education were confined to attendance on the district schools, with addition of one year's study at Kirksville, Missouri, Normal. He has taught several terms with success. Annie E. Cloyd was born February 22, 1860; died June 10, 1881. Her short life was one of almost constant sickness and suffering. At an early age she became a member of the Christian Church. During her long suffering she was patient, looking forward to that blissful immortality beyond the grave.

James W. Greenwood. - The Greenwood family is one, around which cluster many interesting reminiscences, they being early identified in the settlement and growth of Sangamon county. The direct line of descent is traced to William Greenwood, who was born near Petersburg, Virginia, 1772; married Ruth Brooks, and moved to Cabell county. West Virginia; moved to Sangamon county, and settled in Curran township, October, 1824.

William Greenwood's father enlisted for the war of the Revolution. When marching orders came, he was unable to go, by reason of sickness. Wishing to have his place filled, he sent his son, Abraham - a brother of William - to serve until he could relieve him. When sufticiently recovered to do duty, he went to his command - found Abraham unwilling to go back - was resolved to continue in the service.

We hear of many of his peculiar exploits, many of them being upon the Tories. He constituted himself a forage company, and made the Tories his means for supplies. One day, calling at a Tory's house, the old lady ordered him away in an emphatic manner. He had provided a strong line, with fish hook attached, well Lai ted. He cast his line into a flock of geese; an old one seized it. He, obeying her command, rode away, taking the goose with him, to the chagrin of the old lady. He served to the end of the war, never forgetting to live upon the Tories. Of William's children, all became heads of families. Many of them attained prominence in the educational and executive departments of State. John, his son, was born in West Virginia, January 3, 1810; moved to Sangamon county with his father, in 1824; married Eliza Miller, October 20, 1832. She was born in Kentucky, June 1, 1815. Her father, Jacob Miller, was born in Kentucky, 1789; was a soldier in the War of 1812.

John Greenwood had three children: James W., born February 2, 1834; Leah M. (see F. M. Neal), Ruth J. Mrs. G. died February 10, 1841. Mr. G. married her sister, Emily Miller, March 10, 1842. His second wife died April 21, 1866. Mr. Greenwood died May 4, 1880.

His son, James W. Greenwood, was born in Curran township, February 2, 1834; married December 18, 1856, to Margaret Baker, who was born in Loami township, October 2*7, 1834; was daughter of Thomas Baker, born in Campbell county, Kentucky, March 3, 1794; married Nancy Robertson, December 29, 1823. She was born in Harrison county, Virginia, October 9, 1806; lived in West Virginia until 1826, where they had two childi'en; moved to Sangamon county, locating in Loami township, November, 1826, where they had eight children. Of their ten children, nine became heads of families. Some of them, like many others of Sangamon county, responded promptly to the call for troops in our civil war, and offered their sacred all upon their country's altar. Thomas Baker died January 5, 1852. His widow lives where they settled in 1826.

James W. Greenwood now lives on section twelve, Curran township, where he has a farm of two hundred and twenty acres, composed of land suitable for all purposes of farming. He is adding year by year to the value of his farm. His advantages for education were limited to the facilities of the early day. Has six children: N. Jennie, born October 18, 1857; John W., born June 5, 1850; J. William, born August 16, 186-; Harriet -C., born February 27, 1868; Thomas S., born June 10, 1870; Joel F., born October 3, 1873.

James Headly was born of English descent, in Virginia, July, 1808. In 1809, the family removed to Licking, Ohio, where they engaged in farming until 1815, when they went to Butler county, Ohio; here they remained until 1817, when they removed to Orange county, Indiana. Their home there was situated upon '- Lost River," a river that takes upon itself many curious freaks, by occasionally losing itself in the earth, and, at some distance below, coming to the surface again. This is repeated at intervals. That district is also c'alled "Hurricane District," by reason of a terrible tornado that swept over that territory some years since, devastating dwellings and forests that came within its range. Living here two years, in 1810 they moved to Vigo county, in that part now known as Parke county; They settled upon a river near a place known as "Array Ford," a point quite familiar in history as the camping 'and fording place of General Harrison's army, in the War of 1812. During all these years his opportunities of acquiring even a limited education was poor indeed, the duties upon the farm engaging all his working hours. His untiring energy and inate thirst for learning found him employing his every leisure moment in pursuit of that education he so longed for. That assiduous application, with his life-love of books, placed him quite in the front ranks as an intelligent and successful business man. In 1832, he married Miss E. H. Brown, a Kentucky lady of fine family. In 1847, he came to Knox county, Illinois, where he remained until 1856, when he located near Chatham, in Ball tovvnship. His farm there is of three hundred and forty acres, and is a fine specimen of the home of the intelligent and industrious Illinois farmer. At this writing, Mr. Headly has retired to his quiet home in Chatham village, where, with books and general news, he is enjoying the fruits of an active life. Mr. H. in early life strongly identified himself in every moral and religious enterprise, and has ever been an earnest worker in them.

Mr. and Mis. Headly have had eight children, three of whom died in early life. John Milton was born October 20, 1835. In early life he evidenced a fondness for books, and eagerly embraced every means, however limited, for self improvement, and, almost wholly through personal application and such assistance as he could obtain at home, he secured an education that would do credit to one of greater facilities. When our civil war began, he felt the influence of that love of liberty which was early instilled into his mind, and had grown with his growth, and he at once hastened to the front, ready for any duty at his country's call. Faithfully he served, until disease, contracted in an uncongenial climate, prostrated him. He died at Cape Girardeau, Missouri, December 21, 1861. Matilda, born September 27, 1838; married Wm. Scott, a farmer, in 1852. Jennie S., born February 28, 1846; married J. R. Lockridge, March 18, 1869; Mr. L. is an extensive and successful general trader and stock dealer. Columbus C, born January 11, 1849, is now on the farm so finely improved and cultivated by the united efforts of father and sons, and the farm has lost none of its former attractions under his skillful <3are. Edwin R., born April 4, 1851, married Minnie Ridgeway, in 18*76. He early expressed a foridness for learning, and seizing upon every opportunity, aided by the father, now with abundant means, he secured such an education that his services were soon in demand as teacher, and teaching winters, and working on the farm summers, he acumraulated such an amount of money that, aided by his ever ready father, he settled upon a farm in Chatham township, where he exemplifies what an intelligent farmer can do.

Samuel C. Hewitt, M. D., was born September 1, 1835, in Harrison, Licking county, Ohio; his father was Rev. Jeremiah Hewitt, a Lutherian clergyman, who, in connection with his ministerial duties, devoted much time to teaching. Samuel C. remained at home on the farm until bis father's death, which occurred July 14, 1855; his mother having died September 17, 1835. While at home he attended the public schools in the winter season. In the winter of 1852-3, he was in Delaware High School, and made marked progress. In the winter of 1854-5, he read medicine with D. Ferguson, who was a Methodist Episcopal clergyman, at Kerkerville, Ohio. May 1, 1856, he came to Chatham, and continued his reading, with A. B. Hewitt, until 1858, when, in company with A. B. Hewitt, he commenced the practice of medicine. August 12, 1861, he responded to the early call for troops. A company was raised and officered, and marched to Springdeld, and there assigned to the Third Illinois Cavalry, at Camp Butler. Soon after, he was detailed into the medical department, where he remained until April 15, 1863, and was discharged through physical disability. He returned to Chatham. After one year, he regained his health sufficiently to resume the practice of medicine. In 1873, he took a course ot lectures in the Cincinnati ( Ohio ) Eclectic Medical Institute, since which time he has been in successful practice in Chatham, By a law passed July 1, 1877, every physician in the State was required to obtain a certificate of ability from the "State Board of Health;" he received his February 16, 1878. Dr. Hewitt married Caroline E. Hawkins, January 17, 1858. The Hawkins family came to Chatham from New York, in 1855; in March, 1870, they removed to Kansas, and still live there. Mrs. Caroline E. Hewitt died November 20, 1858, and Dr. Hewitt married Lucy M. Hawkins, sister of his first wife, March 24, 1862. She was born October 4, 1844, in Brookfield, New York. They have an adopted daughter, Mary Hewitt, born February 15, 1867. The family are attendant upon the Methodist Episcopal Church, where they are consistentand active members.

Jaynes Irioin. - The father of James Irwin was Robert Irwin, born about 1774, in Limerick county, Ireland. He married Mary Cordon, who was born at same place, about 1794, He was a farmer, and, as usual then, upon a rented farm - a rental he held most of his lifetime. They had five sons and two daughters. One son and both daughters died at their Ireland home, the four sons remaining came to America. In 1866, the aged couple crossed the ocean to visit their sons in America. Mr. Irwin was then ninety-two, and Mrs. Irwiu was seventy-two. They remained here two years, when, despite the entreaties of the sons to remain with them, each offering them a home for life, they returned to their old home to spend their remaining years.

Mr. Irwin died in 1877, one hundred and three years of age. His widow is now (1881) living, eighty-seven years of age. During the last year of his life, his sons provided him with the comforts and even the luxuries of life, and the aged mother is now the recipient of their united care. While here, the old people sought their regular daily exercise, in the garden and elsewhere. One part worthy of note is, that Mr. Rubert Irwin never used tobacco or ardent spirits, in any form, and it may be remarked his sons are like abstainers. Mr. Irwin has left behind him the reward of a true Irish gentleman.

James Irwin was born March 1, 1833, in Kilmalloch, county Limerick, Ireland, the county seat of Limerick, situated on both sides of the river Shannon - a city of great age. We find the Danes occupying it in the ninth century, and held it nearly a century. In 1210, King John fortified it. Edward Bruce burned it in 1314. It was the last stronghold of King James. King William, of Orange, besieged it, without success, after the battle of Boyne (1690). In 16yl, it was again invested, and, after a brilliant defense of several weeks, an armistice was proposed, which resulted in a capitulation of surrender. lie remained with his father until 1851, when eighteen years of age, he came to America ; his first work being on the Chicago & Alton railroad, then being graded through Chatham. Here he worked six months, then engaged with a farmer for two years. He had saved all his earnings, and invested in land, in Christian county. This he sold, having made $300 by the investment. He then rented a farm, for two years; two good crops gave him a fine beginning.

He married November 19, 1854, Rachel Harlan, who was born February 6, 1840. Her father was Silas Harlan, born in Virginia, January 1, 1*781; moved to Kentucky, and in 1827 came to Chatham township and bought one thousand acres of wild land, and an improved farm. He married Elizabeth Messick, who was born in Virginia, March 26, 1809, and one year later moved to Kentucky; in 1827, she came to Sangamon county, where she married Mr. Harlan, September 10, 1829. Mr. Harlan died November 9, 1844. His widow married George Roberts, September 14, 1846.

The farm upon which Mr. Irwin now lives is Mrs. Irwin's portion of the "Harlan Estate;" besides this he has bought two huUdreT^acres, and also has bought one hundred and twenty acres, on which Mrs. Roberts ( Harlan) has a life lease; making him a farm of over four hundred acres of finely situated land, of prairie and timber, well watered by Panther creek. The farm has a beautiful grove for picnics, which Mr. I. kindly opens for any national, religious or social gathering, and his proverbial geniality always adds to the enterprise, whatever it may be.

His opportunities for education were good, being the Parish school - kind to the poor, where they have as good care as the rich. These schools were under the immediate supervision of the village priest, who employed the best teachers.

His religious tenets are of the Catholic order, where he has been «n active member. While he has his own views in modes of worship, he cheerfully awards to others their particular tenets and views. He has sufficient income to render his life easy, with his books and papers, of which he is in daily receipt, he passes many an hour, profitably and pleasantly. He needs no written obligations to strengthen his business transaction.

Mr. Irwin, Cincinatus like, left his plow in the field, and joined tlie Springfield Light Artillery, August 14, 1862, for three years. His captain was promoted to Chief of Artillery of Seventh

Battery, and Mr. I. was promoted to First Lieutenant; was mustered out June 20, 1865. Was in the battles of Columbus, Kentucky; Corinth, Mississippi; Bolivar, Tennessee; and Little Rock, Arkansas; much of the time on skirmish duty. They have seven children, four sons and three daughters.

Henry Kinney was born at Cazenovia, Madison county. New York, August 4, 1 807. His father was Henry Kinney, born in Woodstock, Connecticut, Mai'ch 1, 1774; in 1795, he went to Carzenovia, Madison county. New York. There, on March 4, 1798, he married Dicey Pond, from Hartford, Connecticut. There are so many interesting incidents in the history of the Pond family, that we propose to give a hasty sketch of them. Early records states that two brothers Pond came from England, in 1630; after landing here, it seems Governor Winthrop, who had been a neighbor of their father, in England, wrote to his son in Groton, England, saying: "Tell old Pond that both his sons are well, and remember their duty." We also find, that Samuel, from whom those of the name have originated, married at Windsor, Connecticut, November 14, 1642, and he died March 14, 1654. We also learn that Nathaniel, third son of Samuel, was killed in a fight with the Naragansett Indians, December 19, 1675. The will of Samuel Pond, taken from the "original records in the State House in Hartford, Connecticut," all in "ye olden style," and the inventory of "ye estate, made March ye 19, 1654," all in that quaint old style, are very curious records. The "sum total," was, "129 pounds and 02 shillings, all without incumbrance."

Among those who first sprang to arms at the "battle cry" at Lexington, on April 19, 1775, were several of the name of Pond, who did not lay down their arms until peace was declared. One Barnabas Pond was a Major in the Revolutionary War, and was so efficient a soldier, under or near the command of General La Fayette, that on the visit of that distinguished man to this country in 1824, as he was pressing his way on through the crowd in the streets of Iltica, New York, his keen military eye caught sight of the brave Major Pond, he raised himself in his carriage and addressed him as " Major Pond." They afterward met, and a very affecting scene followed. The same illustrious family held important places in the War of 1812, and in the last civil war many of the name won records of bravery. » advantages for obtaining an education were indeed limited; none other than a few weeks each winter in the old-time log school house, and the proverbial inefficient teacher. On February 2 3, 1822, the family left New York for Illinois. Reached Olean, on Allegheny river; there they built a flat-boat, and taking on some small families with them, they ran down to Shawneetown, Illinois, where they disembarked. They were then two hundred miles from their destined place; having brought one good team with them and had also been so provident as to lay in a year's supply of provisions, they engaged a good four-horse team, and on May 6, 1822, they arrived in Loami township. There they entered two hundred and forty acres, and some time after entered one hundred and sixty acres more, making four hundred in all, most of which is still in the hands of the family; i's well selected, consisting of prairie and timber, well watered by Lick creek, Mr. Kinney remained on the farm with his father until his majority - August 4, 1828; he then arranged to go onto one of the farms of his father, and on October 23, 1828, he married Miss Margaret Dorrance, daughter of Daniel Dorrance, who, with his family, consisting of one son and two daughters, left Wayne county. New York, in the sjjring of 1822, for Illinois. They arrived at Olean, on the Allegheny river, at the same time of the Kinney family; they going down to Cincinnati on a raft of lumber. At Cincinnati they took a boat for St. Louis, thence by team to Loami township, and located on a farm adjoining Mr. K's.

Mr. Kinney remained on his farm until 1833, when his father became infirm, and desired his return to the old home. He accordingly changed farms with his brother and remained with his father until his death, on March 18, 1859, being eighty-five years of age, his mother having died September 15, 1850, at seventy -two years of age.

His son Daniel was born August 19, 1829; married Annie Elmore, April 1, 1856; now on farm in Loami township. Clarrissa, born April 9, 1831; married to James M. Darneille, January 1, 1852; now in Chatham, retired farmer. Caroline, born October 9, 1831, died March 6, 1853; Eliza Jane, born October 9, 1834, married John R. Shelton November 30, 1854, a farmer; Rebecca M., born January 14, 1837, married David Van Deren, December 8, 1859, who died after a short illness, February 15, 1874, leaving his wife and daughter in afiluent circumstances.

During the Black Hawk war, in 1831, Mr. Kinney was out in a cavalry company, under the command of Captain Sanders; was present at the ^ OSburning of the Indian town, near Rock Island, During a heavy rain, the troops crossed the river in a steamboat that had been sent to rescue them from the woods should they ambush them. The surprise upon the Indians was most complete. They fled in all directions, leaving many stores behind them. The troops burned the village, which was probably one of the best built ones.

Mr. Kinney associated himself with the Baptist Church, in 1840, and has since been an active and consistent member; has ever been prompt and efficient in every moral and religious movement. For many years he was deacon in the church, the sacred mantle falling upon him from his father, who had sustained it for many years before him.

Mr. K. has removed from his farm to his pleasant home, in Chatham village, where, surrounded with many who have passed through the vicissitudes of the early settlers' life, with him, he is passing the remaining years of his useful life, fully assured of duty done.

Isaac Newton Lowe was born near Three Bridges, New Jersey, April 2, ] 841, he was a son of Richard I., who was born in Lancaster, Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, June 1802, and who married for his second wife Sarah Williamson, who was born 1820, married about 1837. His grandfather, Isaac, was of German descent, and for many years was a " village landlord" of the genuine old Pennsylvania type. His wife died leaving only one child, Richard I., about 1838; they moved to New Jersey, where Richard I, engaged for several years in successful merchandising and manufacturing flour. While thus engaged he bought a tract of land of two hundred and forty acres in Jersey county, Illinois, and in the fall of 1847, with his father and family, he moved upon it, then a wild prairie. To expedite business he bought a small piece of land with a house on it, and at once set to improving his farm. His father being well stricken with years of active life, died early in 1848 Richard, year by year, continued his improvements until now (1881), he has one of the finest farms in Jersey county, in fact, in Southern Illinois. His farm upon its boundary lines has a fine living hedge fence; all kinds of fruit are grown in abundance.

He is now ( 1881), in his eightieth year, in full enjoyment of all his mental faculties, superintending his great interest. He has been rcost abstemious during his life, having never used tobacco, or used liquor of any kind other than for medical purposes.

He had twelve children, five now living. Two of his sons were among the first to respond to the call for troops to crush the Rebellion. Abraham W., born 1839, enlisted in the Ninetyseventh Illinois Infantry, but before he was mustered in he went to the Springfield Light Artillery, August 25, 1862, and joined that. He distinguished himself in the service, but after a few months became partially disabled by rheumatism; was detailed as hospital steward, and served till the close of the war; mustered out June 30, 1865. Edwin, born April 2, 1843, enlisted in the Ninety-seventh Illinois Infantry, 1862, then nineteen years of age; served with distinction in many battles; was killed at the siege of Fort Blakely, Alabama, an out-post of Mobile; the rebels had surrendered, and he, a color bearer, was planting the colors on the walls when a rebel in the trenches shot him; his body was brought home some months after.

Isaac N., the subject of this sketch, was born in New Jersey, April 2, 1841, moved to Illinois with his father, in 1847. He remained upon the farm at home until he was twenty-five years old, (1866) when he mariied Helen E. Davis, October 31, 1866, who was born October 22, 1849. She was a daughter of John W. Davis, of Jerseyville.

Mr. L. worked his father's farm on shares until February, 1872, when he moved into Talkington township, Sangamon county, where he lived until 1880, when he bought the farm known as the W. T. Mason farm, in Chatham township, of one hundred and sixty acres, at $50 an acre; and is now (1881), a substantial citizen of Sangamon county. His farm is finely situated, composed of rolling prairie; his boundary lines are living hedges.

Hi^ opportunities for education were good for that period. The Jersey county schools at that time bad assumed a high standard. Like his father he uses no tobacco or liquor, -They have had eight children; two died young; the others are at home with their parents.

Hugh S. Magill. - There are many very interesting features connected with the Magill family. The subject of the sketch was born June 10, 1830, in the county of Downs, the most northeasterly county of Ireland, separated from Scotland by the North Channel. His birthplace was near Belfast, the manufacturing city of Ireland, and the largest linen manufacturing city in the world. The "Giant's Causeway," so celebrated in the history of Ireland, is only a short distance from his birthplace. The inhabitants are largely of Scottish descent, and of strong religious principles. His father, James Magill, was born in 1784; was a cotton goods manufacturer. His mother was Elizabeth Stuart, born October 12, 1792; was in direct line of descent from Robert Stuart, of Scotland. On May 12, 1844, the elder Magill, with a family of eight children, landed in New York, and at once went to Utica, where he again engaged in cotton goods manufacturing. He died in Utica, October 2, 1855. His widow died February 11, 1881, at the residence of her daughter, in Winnebago county, Illinois, eighty-nine years of age. Her body was buried beside her husband in Utica. H. S. Magill moved to Sangamon county, Chatham township, March 1, 1856; bought one hundred and sixty acres of unimproved rolling prairie. In a few days he had a house built and moved into it. The house thus hastily built forms a part of the present structure. From the time the first blow was struck, he has been steadily increasing his gains, beautifying his buildings and grounds. While he is thus engaged, he is not unmindful of his own or his family's mental culture. He has a good library, to which he adds from time to time, besides he provides himself with the general news of the day by papers and periodicals. He married Charlotte A. Richmond, born in Madison county. New Jersey, September 7, 1831. They were married November 24,1853, in Utica, New York. Her father was Dr. Hoyt Richmond, born in Castleton, Vermont, January 15, 1805. He graduated at Castleton Medical College, and for many years was a successful physician and surgeon. Her mother was Lydia Cazier, born in South Britton, Conn., June 26, 1803. She was a daughter of Matthias Cazier, born 1760, on Staten Island, New York; was a Presbyterian clergyman, who graduated at Princeton College, New Jersey, soon after the close of the Revolutionary war. The father of Matthias, and Guat Grome, father of Miss Magill, was one of the Huguenots (a sect of Protestants) who, for years, were persecuted in France, (see History of Reformation) and finally, with others, fled to America. Mr. Cazier settled on Staten Island, and obtained large possessions, bringing much wealth with him. At what date they came is not defined. At the breaking out of the Revolutionary war, we find the elder Cazier, with his four sons, able to bear arms, rallying around the standard of liberty. Matthias was the youngest, but when seventeen years old he too, joined the army. There are many amusing, as well as sad incidents connected with their war history. At the time they lived upon Staten Island, slavery had been introduced iiito America, and theCazier family owned afew slaves. Their treatment to them was kind indeed, and a mutual attachment existed between master and slaves.

One day, when Mrs. Cazier was nearly alone on the farm with the slaves, a number of Tories, who knew her situation, came to the place, collected all the valuable stock, and with several slaves they urged to go with them, drove the stock away. Mrs. Cazier sadly felt the loss of the stock, but was greatly grieved to have the slaves she had been so kind to, go away at that time from her. A few days after, she saw her faithful slaves returning, driving the entire stock back; going out to meet them, they said: "Missus, dat was de best way to fool dem beats." The slaves had been so willing to go that the Tories put them in charge of the stock - how faithfully they held their charge is seen.

During the long years of the war, Mrs. Cazier had died, the British had captured New York, the Cazier property had been destroyed or scattered, all of the heirs except Matthias, had died, or been killed. At the close of the war Mr. Cazier returned to his home to find desolation made desolate. The brave old man, who had faced the bloody carnage of Catholic France for his religious liberties, and for eight long years had stood shoulder to shoulder with his comrades, in defense of the liberties of his adopted country, looked upon the scene - his brain reeled - he took a last look upon his once loved home, became a wanderer, and of his death no one knows.

Some kind friend aided the young Matthias, he finished his collegiate course at Princeton, and when properly fitted, was ordained, and settled at Castleton, Vermont; was the first settled minister in the State.

Vermont, at some time later, passed a law, giving to the "first settled minister in the State" a certain amount of land. After preaching a while, (time not known) in Vermont, he went to Pelham, Massachusetts, thence to South Britton, Connecticut, where the mother of Mrs. Magill was born, in 1803. It must have been about this time the law in Vermont came in force, and he came into possession of his land.

Three years later, (1806,) we find he had sold the land, and moved to Madison county. New York; there he invested his money in lands again, and from the proceeds made his own support. He was so Calvinistic in his belief, that he always regarded it as a special interposition of Providence in his behalf. He continued in the ministry, preaching regularly, for thirty years, but he would never receive a cent in payment. He died in 1856; was seventy-six years of age. Thus closed the last chapter of the eventful life of that family of devoted Huguenots.

The Magill family is equally interesting in its ancestry. We find them for many generations, active adherents of the Scotch Presbyterian Church. Three brothers, Magill, graduated at Edinburg University, and became prominent clergymen. The Rev. Magill, D.D., of Philadelphia, is one of those brothers. Mr. IT. S. Magill has now nine living children.

Noah D. Mason. - The grand-father of Mr. Mason was born January 15, 1782, at Mendon, Worcester, Massachusetts. He was apprenticed to a hard master, from whom he ran aw'ay, and followed the sea as a sailor several years. July 15, 1804, Mr. Mason married Luciuda Stetson, who was born June 14, 1782. She was born in Hanover, Plymouth county. After their marriage he made a voyage of near two years to China. On his return from that voyage he relinquished the life of a sailor and moved to Hancock county. State of Maine, near Belfast. This would be about 1806. In 1814, he moved to Genesee county. New York, and in the early part of 1819 he wenttoOlean Point, on the Allegheny river. In 1821 he with others built a boat, and their families ran down that river and the Ohio, and landed in Pope county, Illinois. A little more than two years later they started for Tazewell county, but finding Sangamon county possessing more advantages they settled in Auburn township, April 10, 1824. Of their children, Noah, junior, comes in the line of descent we wish to follow. He was born February 25, 1807, near Belfast, Maine. He married in Sangamon county, February ]9, 1885, to Martha Nuckolls. They had six children. j\Irs. Mason died March 24, 1852, and he married Elizabeth Talbott, August 9, 1853. By this marriage they had but one child, Noah D. Mason, the subject of our sketch.

Noah D. Mason was born October 3, 1854. Married July 31, 1878, to Maria McGraw, born January 19, 1855. Her father was Absalom D. McGraw, was born in Harrison county, Kentucky, May 30, 1812. Leaving Kentucky, he arrived in Springfield November 28, 1836. He has a vivid recollection of the "sudden change" which occurred December 20, 1836.

He married Rebecca H. Hunter, April 30, 1859, in Springfield. She w^as born in Hardin county, July 17, 1815, Mr. McGraw died in the fall of 1 875, on his farm in Woodside tow^nship.

N. D. Mason lived on the home farm until 1866, when, with his father, he went to Springfield. He went through the several grades, reached the High School, took part of a course, took two terms in Springfield Commei'cial College, where he obtained a thorough business education. He is now on the southwest quarter of section twenty-six, a farm assigned him by his father, in the partial division of 'his estate. The farm is fine rolling prairie, with sufficient water from creeks for all stock porposes.

Mr. Mason is entrusted with responsible positions on town, school and other boards - places he fills honorably. Has one child, Lizzie, born June 4, 1879.

Edvmrd F. McCo7inell, son of James and Sarah (Smith) McConnell, was born in Madison county. New York, April 30, 1816. His early life was passed in assisting his father on the farm in his native county, and in attending the common schools, Math one year at an academy, in Clinton, New York. On the nth of September, 1840, he was united in marriage with Ann, daughter of Curtis Hoppin, of Lebanon, New York. Six children were born unto them, only one of whom is now living - James S., now residing in Girard, Illinois, where he is engaged in the milling business.

In the fall of 1842, Mr. McConnell and wife, in company with his father and family came to Sangamon county with the special object of engaging in farming and stock raising. Finewooled sheep has been a specialty with him, and since his advent in Sangamon county, he has sold more than 1110,000 worth of wool, and thousands of dollars worth of sheep. When he arrived here, the neighborhood in which he settled, about two miles southwest of Chatham, was all open prairie. He was troubled for some years with the prairie wolves which infested the country, and had a particular fondness for mutton; not only the prairie wolves, but occasionally a large gray or black one was seen.

Mrs. McConnell died June 14, 1853, and Mr. McConnell was again married, forming an alliance with Mary Hoppin, a sister of his first wife, March 13, 1855. Mrs. Mary McConnell died August 28, 1877.

A third marriage contract was formed by Mr. McConnell, the lady in question being Mrs. Sarah P. Morse, whose maiden same was Storrs, a daughter of Ashabel Storrs, of Des Moines,

Mr. McConnell has never been a seeker for public favors, but has held the" oflice of supervisor and other minor offices of the township. He devotes his time closely to his business, and has been in a measure, quite successful.

James McConnnell, the father of Edward F., was born in 1789, near Belfast, Ireland. Sarah Smith was born at the same place, in 1787. They were married in 1811, and soon after embarked for America, landing in New York City. In a short time he went to Belleville, New Jersey, where he labored in a powder mill three years, without losing a day. The war with England, from 1812 to 18l5, was then in full force, and caused a great demand for powder. Mr. McConnell having learned all the processes of manufacturing the same, and was an especial adept in the most difficult part - that of refining saltpetre. He went to Madison county, New York, and established works on his own account, and continued to manufacture powder there, seven or eight years, when he turned his attention to farming and raising fine stock in the same county. After making several trips to Kentucky, selling stock, he was advised to take some to Illinois. Acting upon this advice, he embarked at Pittsburg with a lot of jacks and jennets, landed them at Shawneetown, and drove them from there to Springfield, arriving in the fall of 1840. He had no thought of making his home here, but was so well pleased with the country that he bought the land about three miles south of Springfield, making part of the farms on which two of his sons now reside. He went back to New Y^'ork, settled up his business, and came with his family the next year. His removal was the cause of several other families coming, also. Mr. McConnell brought a fiock of about two hundred fine merino sheep, and at the same time some thorough-bred Berkshire hogs. His son, Edward F., brought a flock of merino sheep, also. This was about the first efliort to introduce fine blooded sheep and hogs into Sangamon county.

Zachary T. McGinnis - The biography of Mr. McGinnis is identified with that of some of the earliest settlers of this portion of Sangamon county, and we refer to a few of them.

On November 21, 182'7, they arrived at what is now Island Grove township. David McGinnis stall-fed sixty head of cattle in 1838, the first effort of the kind in Sangamon county. He drove the herd to St. Louis, and sold them at $18 per head. The pay was received mostly in silver. This he placed in an oid business secretary at home, without lock. Neither had his house a lock upon it. His own laborers and other men, knowing of it, were passing to and fro, but never was a penny disturbed. This speaks well for the honesty of early settlers. David died July 2, 1867, from the effects of being thrown from a carriage. Of their children born in Kentucky, William, born in Boor county, July 7, 1823, married, July 19, 1845, Lorinda Darnielle, a daughter of John Darnielle, who located in Sangamon county from Kentucky in the spring of 1820. William lived in the western part of Chatham township until November 18, 1879, when he went to Kansas.

David and William invented a device for grinding the prairie plow, by wheels and levers. It was used in 1829, and generally adopted by the farmers. They might have realized quite a fortune from it, had they secured a patent on it. O' his children, Zachary T.was born September 24, 1849. He received an academic course of study, and in 1867, began his mercantile life in Loami township. Afterward, he was with E.B. Smith, at Chatham, where he was most thoroughly instructed in everything relative to mer- -cantile pursuits.

In 1877, Hon. B. F. Caldwell, knowing his positive fitness for business, assigned to him the entire supervision of his mercantile interests in Chatham, a position of trust he occupies at present writing (1881).

Mr. McGinnis married, November 24, 1871, Miss Fannie, an accomplished lady, the daughter of Dr. N. Wright, who has been the leading practitioner of medicine and surgery in Chatham for many years.

Jo&eph Mc Wherter wa,8 born in Mai'ion county, Ohio, April 17, 1846. His father, James Mc- Wherter. who was engaged in farming, died in 1851. The boy, Joseph, was left to the care of his mother. In 1 854, his mother again married and removed to Knox county, Missouri, in 1855, where Joseph was employed on the farm until February 14, 1862, when he enlisted in the Second Missouri Cavalry, and hastened to the defense of his country. His company being composed of expert horsemen, they were, most of the time, ordered into scout or skirmish duty, and the record of the Second Missouri Cavalry was one bravely won. Mr. McWherter was in thirty-two close battles and skirmishes. He was wounded but twice - once in the body, just above the hip, by a shot discharged in a close fight, at Scatterville, Missouri. The wound was not severe, only keeping him off duty about two weeks. The other, by accident, near Herman City, Missouri, while on guard duty. Three drunken soldiers were put under guard, one broke away and ran, was re-arrested, and while the Captain of the company was binding him, he drew his revolver and aimed at the captain's heart. At that instant, a bystander seeing the movement, quickly knocked his hand up, and the ball passed through the captain's hat and left its mark across h's scalp. The captain drew his revolver, and in his excitement and struggle with the prisoner, missed his object and badly wounded McWherter, who was off duty four months in consequence of it. The captain then shot the prisoner twice, causing him to carry the remembrance of his spree to his grave. He was mustered out April 8, 1865. He being then near his majority, he began work for himself, farming about two years, when he began buying stock and supplying a meat market, which he had opened, locating at Newark, Missouri. April 1, 1870, he came to Adams county, Illinois, and engaged in farming and general stock trade. In 1873, he went to Williamsville, Sangamon county, and conducted a large meat market, remaining until 1875, when he came to Chatham, and still remains, now wholly in the stock business. In December, 1871, he married Miss S. J. Conrad, daughter of Mr. Conrad, proprietor of hotel at Williamsville. Have had four children. Mr. McWherter always managed his business, from a small beginning, very successfully, maintaining an unimpeachable character for honesty and integrity. His school facilities, while in Missouri, were of very low order, in a slave district, where there were no advantages except for the rich, but by making the best of his limited means, and by personal application, he has acquired a fair business education.

Fielding M. Neal. - Mr. Neal is in direct line of ancestry from Daniel Neal, born in Bedford county, Virginia, in 1770; then he married Polly Booth, a native of same county. They had ten children in Virginia. In fall of 1808, they moved to Franklin countv, Tennessee, where John A.

Neal was born, July 31, 1809; then moved to Bourbon county, Kentucky, where five children were born; then moved to Sangamon county, Illinois, and located in Chatham township November 10, 1828. Daniel Neal died August 26, 1838; Mrs. Polly Neal died in 1854. Stephen

B. Neal, father of Fielding M. Neal, was born in Virginia, December 25, 1807; came to Chatham township with his father, November 10 1828; married Julia A. Wyckoff. Fielding M. was born in Chatham township, October 29, 1832; married Leah M. Greenwood, January 25, 1855, she was born in Chatham township, September 18, 1836, was a daughter of John Greenwood, who was born in West Virginia, January 3, 1810, and came with his father to Sangamon county, in 1824. (See James W. Greenwood.) Mr. Neal's brothers were among the first to respond to the call for troops for our civil war. Samuel M. enlisted in 1862, in company B, Eleventh Missouri Infantry, for three years, served faithfully till close of war, was honorably discharged; married and lives in Missouri. William A. enlisted in Fourteenth Illinois Infantry, for three years, in 1861; served his time; re-enlisted as a veteran in 1864; saw the last rebel lay down his arms, and was honorably discharged. He now lives near Chatham. Henry

C. enlisted in company B, Thirtieth Illinois Infantry, for three years, August 9, 1861; was captured at the battle of Atlanta, Georgia, July 22, 1864; was thrown into the Andersonville prison pen, where he died one month later, adding another victim to the never to be written horrors of that southern prison. Mr. F. M. Neal lived on the farm with his father until his marriage (1855); then worked the farm one year on shares; he then moved to Loami township, where he lived two yeai's; in 1858, he bought and moved upon the eastern part of present farm. In 1873, he purchased an adjoining farm on which he now lives, giving him a farm of two hundred and forty acres His opportunities for education were confined to the rude log school house, with slab seats, but nevertheless, with such appliances and his own energy, he acqxiired suflicient education to conduct his interests in such a manner that the balance sheet shows largely in his favor. His children are: William A., born March 26, 1856; Julia A., born January 24, 1858, died 1860; John F., born June 10, 1860; Eliza Ann, born March 23, 1862, married Geo. Works, February 11, 1881; Ruthy Jane, born in October 24, 1864; Henry E., born May 2, 1867; Cora Louvania, born July 10, 1870.

Warre?i Phinny. - At a date prior to t1 e Revolutionary War, three "Brothers Phinny" came from England to Rhode Island; one of them was lost track of; the other two had families. We find one of them able to bear arms in active service in the Revolutionary War. Their families were burned out, and much property destroyed by the British and Tories, during their absence

His father, Benjamin Phinny, was born in Warren, Rhode Island, in 1770; married Betsy Stephens; born at same place, about 1795; soon after they moved to Montpelier, Vermont, where he bought a heavily timbered farm, and began life in earnest. Soon he had felled the timber and converted his wilderness into fruitful fields. Was in the War of 1812, at Plattsburg. The subject of this sketch was born September 6, 1816. His father dying when he was fourteen years of age (1830), he was apprenticed to the blacksmiths' trade, where he remained until he became an expert workman. He journeyed in the Northeastern States, plying his trade, and also in some of the Western States. Located in Cartwright township, Sangamon county, in 1849. He had married in Rhode Island, February 28, 1840, Caroline M. Arnold, born in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, September 16, 1824. She died in Sangamon county. May, 1870, leaving three children. Mr. Phinny married Mrs. Elizabeth Gear, whose maiden name was Good, May 31, 1880, by whom he has one child. He rented his farm in Cartwright township and moved to Chatham, in August, 1880, where he has a village residence, living easily after many years of very active life. In 1861, he went to Idaho, where he mined for gold one year with good success. Then went to Portland, Oregon, where he spent a few weeks prospecting; thence to San Francisco, when, having seen the sights, he returned home by way of the Isthmus, reaching home in the fall of 1863.

Edwin B. Smith, was born at Summers Hill, Cayuga county. New York, March, 1824; son of John and Margaret (Cooper) Smith. His father being an extensive farmer, his sons usually spent their minority at home on the farm, receiving at the same time a good, thorough business education. After arriving at his majority in 1845, he was employed at general farming until 1855, when he came to Chatham, Illinois, where he continued farm work two years longer. In 1857, he formed a mercantile association with his two brothers, who had preceded him, under the name of "Smith Bros."

Although the silver money of 1857 proved 80 fatal to the interests of so many, in the then new State, these enterprising Smith Bros., were equal to the occasion, and by strict business integrity and honesty they rode out the financial storm without disaster.

In 1863 or 1864, he assumed the entire business, his brothers retiring. Since E. B., has assumed the entire business, he has been steadily and successfully prosecuting it, and at present writing (1881) he is occupying his fine brick block, which has two large sales-rooms, well stocked with choicest selections of all grades of goods.

His plan of business will compare very favorbly with those of much greater pretentions in our cities, in point of general direction and amount of stock. During the many years of active mercantile life, he has schooled and drilled many young men into his present system of business, who are now occupying places of trust. Beside his extensive business interests, he has found time to give a helping hand to the affairs of the ^village - was postmaster four years, and for several years served on the board of trustees.

In December, 1861, he married Betsey Tichnor, a lady from Rockford, Illinois. They have had two children. Charles, born September, 1862, was drowned by falling in a cistern, August 21, 1864; Frank, born June, 1865, died at an early age. Mr. and Mrs. Smith are now occupying their beautiful home in Chatham, surrounded by luxuriant groves and gai'dens, which they have brought from the barren prairie.