Sangamon County, Illinois - Biographical sketches, 1881 (part 9 of 21)

James W. Osburn was born in Mongomery county, Illinois, August 14, 1826, and the son of Bailey and Phoebe Osburn, nee Landis. His education was received in the common schools. He was married in 1860 to Mary E. Lewis, who was born in Kentucky. They have five children, John, Ellen, Belle, Laura and Nancy I. He enlisted August 9, 1862, in the Seventy-third Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and served nearly three years. He was in a number of engagements, among which there was the battle of Stone River. He was taken sick and afterwards transferred to the ordinance train. He was with Sherman through Georgia, then with Hood until the close of the war. He then came home and engaged in farming and milling. He now owns thirty acres of land on which he farms and also runs the saw mill situated in the southeast corner of Ball township. Politically he is a Republican.

Thomas B. SJiephard, was born in Washington county, Maryland, September 28, 1835; son of Thomas C. and Ellen (Miller) Shephard, who were natives of Virginia, and moved to this county in 183(), when Thomas was but one year old. The latter attended common schools until nineteen years of age, then attended the Illinois State Univert-ity, ac Springfield, two terms. He was married October i!6, 1859, to Arminda Pyle, born October 13, 1889, and daughter of Alfred and Malinda (Padfield) Pyle, and their family consists of three children: Thomas A., Ann E. and Mary E. Mr. S. moved upon his present farm February 14, 1860, which is located on section thirty-six. At that time the farm consisted of three hundred acres, but now he has seven hundred acres, under a good state of cultivation, with good substantial buildings, and worth 1 60 an acre. He is principally engaged in stock raiding; himself and wife are members of the M. E. Church, and Mr. S. is a Republican.

S. JV. Shoup, section two, was born in Piqua county, Ohio, May 16, ]828; son of Jacob and Sarah Shoup, nee Downing, who came to Sangamon county in the fall of 183i', and engaged in farming. His father died in 1849, and mother in 1850. The subject of this sketch was only five years of age when he came to the county; his education was principally in the common schools, and educated to farm. In 1857, he was married to Alice J. Mourrer; she was born in Sangamon county; their family consists of seven children, viz: The living are, Willie H., Ettie May, Harry S,, Lucia D.. and three dead, Luella M., John I. and Sarah. In 1850, he came to the present farm, and continued to farm up to 1863, when he enlisted in the One Hundred and Fourteenth Regiment Illinois Volunteers, and was one of the same until the close of the war.

In 1878, he was elected to the office of Sheriff of Sangamon county, and served two years, after which, he moved back on his farm. He now owns two hundred and eighty acres of land, situated on section two, which he now has under a good state of improvement, and worth |75 per acre.

Andrew Southwick was born in Sangamon county, Illinois, and the son of James and Louisa Southwick, [nee Trumbo,) who was born in Kentucky. His father died January, 1869, and mother in 1875. The subject of this sketch received a common school education, and was raised on a farm, and married in 1874, to Ann Brunk, who was the daughter of David and Maria Brunk. They have three children: John B,, Samuel and George. He moved on

Samuel J. Stout was born in Sangamon county, Illinois, August 22, 1849, and was the son of Philemon and Melissa Stout, nee Shoup. He was raised on a farm, and his education was recieved in the common schools, attending Mount Zion one year, Lincoln one year. He was married July 30, 1871, to Emma L. Brassfield. She was born in Menard county, Illinois, August i', 1850. They had born to them Edna May and Sarah Malissie, both of whom are deceased. He lost his wife December 20, 1875. He owns one thousand and forty acres of land, situated in Ball township, which is under a fair state of cultivation, and worth $50 an acre. Has held the office of Supervisor for two terms, and politically is Democratic.

Philemon Stout was born in Scott county, Kentucky, April 19, 1822, and was the son of Philemon and Penelope (Anderson) Stout, natives of New Jersey. They emigrated to Kentucky, and afterward to this county, in the fall of 1836, locating in Ball township, where they are engaged in farming. His father died January 21, children. In 1855, Mrs. Stout died, and in 1856 Mr. Stout married Louisa P. Brassfield, born in Clark county, Kentucky ; of their four children, three are living : James B., Joab P. and Malissa M. Clara is deceased. Mr. Stout commenced on his farm in moderate circumstances, but he now owns one thousand eight hundred acres of well improved land, and has given large quantities to his children. He has held the office of supervisor in this township several terms, and is an enterprising and benevolent citizen. In politics, he is a Democrat.

Hiram, TF] 'Walker was born in this county, April 31, 1832; son of Samuel and Martha (Hannah) Walker, who were natives of Virginia, and came to this county in October, 1828, where they resided on a farm until their death; the father's occurring August 31, 1834, and the mother's in April, 1852. Hiram W. resided on a farm until 1857, when he was mai-ried to Martha J. Scoot, born in Morgan county, Illinois, February 13, 1832; and they have had three children, viz: Mary Luella, born March 24, 1858; Lucy Alice, born October 26, 1861, now Mrs. W. J. Peddicord; and Charles Frederick, born July 21, 1863. Mr. W. moved upon his farm of eighty acres in 186^; it is a well improved farm, and worth |50 an acre. He has held the office of Road Commissioner, and has been a member of the School Board. Himself and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a Democrat.

This township lies in the northeastern part of the county, and was so named for Buffalo Hart Grove, where the first settlement was made. The township, with the exception of the grove, containing about two thousand one hundred acres, is all prairie.

The first settUment in Buffalo Hart township was made in 1824, by William Bridges and Charles Moore. Robert E. Burns came nexi:, iu 1825, and was followed, extending over a period of years, by the following named, most of whom brought their families: James Lynn, John Constant, Robert Cass, William P. Lawson, Thomas Greening, John Robinson, James F. Robinson, Adam Starr, and others. Short sketches of seme of the earliest settlers will, perhaps, prove not uninteresting.

William Bridges was born April 28, 1787, in South Carolina. Subsequently he was taken by his parents to Tennessee, and from thence to Green county, Ohio, where he was married to Martha Martin, tear Xenia. Martha Martin was born March 11, 1784, in Clarke county, Kentucky. She was the third child of her parents. When they had two children the family were, with many others of the settlers, in Strcde's Station, for protection against the Indians. When the savages attacked that fortification, whicii terminated in its destruction, the men were in the fields. The women and children collected in one of the block-houses. The men, finding the fort at the mercy of the Indians, thought it would be impossible to save their families, and each one locked out for his own peisonal eafety. Mr. Henry Martin, of all the men, went alone to the block-house, and by his earnest entreaties induced them to open the door. He then compelled his wife, against her protestations, to accompany him with their two children, and they at once entered a cane brake, eluded the Indians, and thus saved their lives. One old lady followed them until they crossed a stream, and when she could travel no further, concealed herself in a cave until the danger passed. The fort was burned, and all the others were slain. Henry Martin remained in Kentucky until after the birth of his daughter, Martha, when he moved with his family, to Green county, Ohio, After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Bridges resided in the city of Xenia until they had two children. Mr. Bridges served one year in the war with Great Britain, from the summer of 1812 to 1813. He then moved to Fayette county, Indiana, where they had one child, and next removed to Sangamon county, Illinois, arriving about 1824 in Buffalo Hart Grove. Mr. Bridges is the gunsmith and blacksmith of whom mention is made in this chapter. He moved to other parts about 1830, and died.

Charles Moore came from one of the Southern States, built a cotton gin at the east side of Buffalo Hart Grove, in 1823 or '4, ran it for several years, and then moved farther north. He had been a Revolutionary soldier, and while going to draw a pension, the stage upset, and caused his death.

Robert E. Burns settled on the east half of the north-west quarter of section twenty-one, in October, 1825. His land had been entered by John Parker, and the deed was made in May, 1826. Mr. Burns was born in Washington county, Virginia, March 28, 1799, but subsequently moved to Clarke county, Kentucky, where he was married to Patsy Cass, September 15, 1825. The young couple immediately set out lor Sangamon county, arriving as already stated. Buffalo Hart Grove was selected as the place for their future home, and a better selec- tion could not. have been made. Mr. and Mrs. Burns raised two children to maturity: Robert Franklin, born July 11, 1832, and Elizabeth C, born June 7, 1835. Robert died July 11, 1852, and Elizabeth married John T. Constant. Robert E. Burns lived a practical and useful life, enduring many of the hardships incidental to old age, but having a sufficiency to keep him comfortably in old age. He died May 2-lth, 1880. His widow yet lives on the old homefitead.

James Lynn came in the fall of 1825. Mr. Lynn was born in Rowan county. North Carolina, February 24, 1 788. In 1809, he went to Muhlenburg county, Kentucky, and when the war between the United States and England commenced, in 1812, he enlisted in a regiment at Russelville, Kentucky, and served eighteen months. He was severely wounded by a gunshot in Canada. After leaving the army he returned to Muhlenburg county, Kentucky. James Lynn and Sai'ah DePoysterwere married November 27, 1814, in Butler county, and at once visited his parents in North Carolina, remaining one year, and in the fall of 1815 moved to Barren county, Kentucky, and subsequently as stated moved to Sangamon county, Illinois, arriving in the fall of 1825, at the north end of Buffalo Hart Grove. Mrs. Lynn says that the country looked so new and wild, it required three days to look around and consult before they could decide to unload their wagons. Her husband would willingly have gone back, but she would not consent to It. Indians were very numerous, but never did them any harm. James Lynn died March 11, 1860.

John Constant arrived here October 7, 1826. Mr. Constant was a native of Kentucky, and was in Clarke county, September 13, 1781, and was married March 11, 1802, to Susan Edminston, Mr. Constant lived but nine years after coming to Illinois. He died November 18, 1835, and his widow, March 18, 1864.

Robert Cass came in October, 1826, in company with John Constant. Mr. Cass was born in 1768 or '69, in Iredell county, North Carolina. His father, James Cass, was born in England, and when he was six or seven years of age, was pressed into the British navy, and trained to a sea-faring life. Being separated from his relatives at so early an age, he never understood his own name, and called himself James Cast, lie came to Philadelphia, and finally settled in Iredell county, North Carolina. After raising a family there, he moved with his children to Clarke county, Kentucky, and there met two

Englishmen by the name of Cass. After becoming acquainted, he found that one of them was his brother, and the other his cousin, and for the first time learned that the family name was not Cast, but Cass. His son Robert, whose name heads this sketch, having always been called Cast, did not think it prudent to resume the original name, but related the facts iu the case to his children, and his descendants have very generally returned to it. Robert Cass was married February 26, 1790, in Iredell county. North Carolina, to Lucy Riley. They bad one child there, and moved to Clarke county, Kentucky, where they had four children; and Mrs. Lucy Cass died, February 13, 1809. Robert Cass was married in Clarke county, April 26, 1810, to Mary Boggs, and had two children there. The family then moved to Sangamon county. He died July 9, 1852, his wife preceding him about twelve years.

William P. Lawson settled in the grove in 1828. He was born in Kentucky in 1794. Was married February 3, 1820, to Priscilla Duncan. Mrs. Lawson died in 1824, and Mr. Lawson married Frances Dunn, October 19, 1826. They raised a large family in Sangamon county, and Mrs Lawson died October 10, 1867.

Thomas A. Greening was born November 19, 1798, in Fauquier county, Virginia. His parent", Reuben Greer iug and Sarah Allen, were born and married in that county. In 1804, they moved to Cumberland Gap, Claiborne county, Tennessee, and in 1808 moved to Clarke county, Kentucky, where they spent the remainder of their lives. Thomas A. was a soldier from that county in the War of 1812. He was married there in 1816, to Elizabeth Dawson. She was born January 1, 1789. They had six children in Kentucky; moved to Montgomery county, Missouri, and from there to Sangamon county, Illinois, arriving in the fall of 1830, at Buffalo Hart Grove, where they spent the winter of the "deep snow." In the spring of 1S31, they moved to what is now Loami township. Mr. Greening died in 1855.

John Robinson was born in Virginia, and married in Maryland to Nancy Robbins. They moved to Delaware, where they had four children, and moved to Nicholas county, Kentucky, where five children were born, and from there to Sangamon county, Illinois, arriving in the fall of 1830, in Buffalo Hart Grove. He died in 1841.

ton, England, died October 23, 1779, aged sixtyeight years. His son, Marmaduke, died April 28, 1797, aged seventy-nine. His son, William Barton Robinson, married Alice Blackburn; they had foiir children; their two youngest were James T. and Barton, pketches of whom are herewith given: James T. came to New York in 1829, traveled through the Eastern States and Canada, and came to Sangamon county, Illinois, arriving in December, 1830, in BuflPalo Hart Grove, just in time to witness the "deep snow."

In the spring of 1832, Mr. Robinson having business East, embarked on the steamboat Talisman, on the Sangamon river, near Springfield, and went as far as St. Louis, on that boat, an account of its trip up the Sangamon river is given elsewhere in this volume. James T. Robinson died December 8, 1871.

Barton Robinson, a brother of James T., was born May 19, 1819, at New Malton, Yorkshire, England. He studied medicine and graduated from a medical college in London. He came to America and joined his brother in Buffalo Hart Grove, in December, 1831.

Adam Starr was l3orn about 1777, iu Culpepper county, Virginia, and went with his parents to Bourbon county, Kentucky, when he was a young man. He was married in Clarke county, to Mary Carson, a native of Baltimore, Maryland They had eight children in Clarke county, Kentucky, and moved to Sangamon county, Illinois, arriving in the fall of 1828, at Buffalo Hart Grove. Mr. Starr died in 1852.

Among other early settlers were Robert McDaniel, Thomas Dunn, John St. Clair, and Ausburn Ridgeway. After 1832, others came, of whom mention may be found among the biographical sketches at the close of this chapter.

The name of the township, as already stated, is derived from that by which the grove was known by the very earliest settlers. The name is that of Buffalo Hart, a combination of Buffalo and Hart, two animals that once were plenty in this region. A hyphen, in truth, should separate the two words, though it was never so written, and as custom makes law, it must be known as Buffalo Hart.

The first religious services held iu the township were in the summer of 1826, at the house of James Lynn, by a traveling minister of tbe Methodist Episcopal Chuich. Only four persons were present, besides the preacher - Mr.and

Mrs. Lynn and Mr. and Mr. Burns. Subsequently, ministers of other denominations came along, and services were first held in the dwellings of the pioneers, and then the school houses. In 1832, two preachers from Eng.and, of the Episcopal persuasion - Dr. Barton Robinson and Mr. Davis - having settled in the township, proceeded to erect a chapel on section twenty-nine, in which religious services were held by themselves, and subsequently by others representing different denominations. This house, after the failure of Revs. Robinson and Davis to effect an organization, was used for school purposes for many years. No other church edifice was erected in the township until 1867, when a union church was built, at a cost of $2,400, near the site of the old chapel, in which the various religious denominations represented in the township assembled for worship at stated times, and by appointment. The Methodist Episcopal denomination organized a class here at a very early day. At the present time, four religious bodies have organizations and stated time for worship - Methodist, Episcopal, Christian, Baptist, and Presbyterian.

Educational

In the summer of 1829, Kennedy Kincade taught a term of school in one room of the first cabin erected by John Constant. This was the first school in what is now Buffalo Hart township. The next school was in the summer of 1830, and taught by a Mr. Blue, in a log house on the west half of the southeast quarter of section twenty.

The first house erected for school purposes was on the farm of John Constant, in the summer of 1833. This was the old log school house of the regulation pattern. Eliza Hood held the first term of school in this house. Subsequently the old chapel, built by Robinson and Davis, was purchased and for years used as a school house. There are now three school houses in the township, valued at $6,700. The children of school age number two hundred and seventy five.

First Events

The first marriage in what now constitutes the township of Buffalo Hart was that of Isaac L. Skinner and Harriet L. Constant, who were united in marriage August 13, 1829. Their first child was born January 10, 1831, in the time of the deep snew. Mr. Skinner went on a visit to his father in the summer of 1831, and there died on the 26th day of August. Mrs. Skinner afterwards married James W. Langston, he died

For many years the citizens of Buffalo Hart were dependent on Springfield and other points for their mail privileges. The first oflice was established in 1848, near the present Buffalo Hart station, with James T. Robinson as postmaster. Mr. Robinson was succeeded by Robert Cass, who held it until discontinued, on the completion of the Wabash Railroad, and the establishment of two offices on that line - one at Buffalo station and the other at Dawson. In 1871, when the Gilman, Clinton & Springfield, now the Springfield Division of the Illinois Central Railroad, was completed, a station was made near the residence of Robert E. Burns, and an office established, with W. A. Mudd as postmaster. Mr. Mudd retained the office two years, and was then succeeded by Frank L. Priest, who held it three years, W. S. Greening was then appointed, and at the expiration of one year, resigned, and John T. Constant was appointed. Mr. Constant still retains the office.

Buffalo Hart had its horse mill at an early day, Thomas Skinner erecting one on his place, which answered the purposes of the farmers, for want of something better. No other grist mill has ever been erected, but in 1861, Robert Cass built a saw-mill about the center of the grove, and in 1874 moved it to its present location, at Buffalo Hart station. The mill is an excellent one, and is a prime necessity for the county.

In 1879, Farnum Brothers erected works and commenced the manufacture of drain tiles. Their sales are constantly increasing among the farmers of the neighborhood.

Patrons Of Husbandry

Buffalo Hart Grange, No. 644, P. of H., was organized September 22, 1873, with the following named charter members: G. K. Greening, Z. T. Greening, William Huffman, John Lee, George Kuhler, Oliver McDaniel, John T. Constant, Marcus Costello, Harrison McDaniel, Jennie Enos, ^Helen Finfrock, Sarah Ford, Mattie McDaniel,' Hannah Lee, F. M. Merrick, Araminta Ford, Lucinda Costello and Elizabeth C. Constant. The meetings of the Grange were held in the old chapel in Buffalo Hart Grove for nearly two years, when a hall was built at the station and occupied for the first time the evening of June 26, 1875. The first officers were G. K. Greening, Master; J. T. Constant, Secretary; Oliver McDaniel. Corresponding Secretary. The Grange flourished for a time, interesting meetings were held and much good accomplished. Since March, 1876, no meetings have been held, though the charter has not been surrendered.

Buffalo Hart township was organized at the same time with other townships, in 1861, on the adoption of the Township Organization Law. The first election was held the first Monday in April of that year. The following is a complete list of the officei's holding the several offices named, and for the time mentioned:

Buffalo Hart Village

On the completion of the Gilman, Clinton and Springfield railroad a station was established on Robert E. Burns' farm, with G. W. Edwards, as station agent. Mr. Edwards held the position for some years, and was succeeded by another, on account of his not being a telegraph operator. John R. Fielding is the present operator and agent, and has held the position since May, 1881. " Around the station has grown up a small village, which has not yet been platted.

Jack & Priest commenced the mercantile business here in 1871. Subsequently Mr. Jack withdrew from the firm, which is now composed of O. F. & F. L. Priest.

groceries and harness; Mr. Dufouris also assistant postmaster; Samuel Harris, blacksmith; Wm. A. Burns, carpenter and wagon maker; G. W. Edwards, shoe maker; Mrs. Alice Harris, dress maker; B. McCue, Robert Cass and J. T. Constant, dealers in grain and live stock; J. T. Constant, dealer in agricultural implements and grass seeds.

Following the general history of Buffalo Hart township is given biographical notices of a number of many of the early settlers and pioneers of the township.

Jbhti Ridgeway Bums, born October 19, 1803, in Jessamine county, Kentucky; married in Sangamon county, April, 1828, to Lucy A. Cass. They had twelve children, all born in Sangamon county; three of whom died under three years of age. Mrs. Burns died July 19, 1876; of the living children, Mary J., born March 26, 1831, married to John Cass, February 28, 1847; Thos. F., born January 9, 1833, married Ursula Greening, he enlisted July 25, 1862, in Company F, One Hundred and Fourteenth Infantry, for three years, but was honorably discharged for physical disability; William Ambrose, born November 28, 1839, married Lucy E. Jones, December 24, 1867. They have had three children, William Elmer, Joy May, and James Leslie; reside at town of Buffalo Hart Station; Joy May died December 8, 1876; Martha A., born February 27, 1843; Arminta, born December 30, 1844, married to William B. Robinson, (see his name); Sophia, born February 13, 1849, married James F. Hickman, December 27, 1871; Iva, born March 18, 1851, married to James L. Wright, October 25, 1871; John I., born January 11, 1854, married Lizzie Perry, September 2, 1875. She is the daughter of Horatio and Maria (Hill) Perry, natives of Louisville, Kentucky. They have had three children, two are deceased, Lucy M., born December 4, 1877, is the only one living; Robert B., born October 26, 1856, married Nettie Moore, October 18, 1876, in Springfield, Illinois. They now live in Decatur, have one child living, George E.

John R. Burns and Lucy Cass came to this county in 1826, he entered land in Logan county, which he traded for land in Sangamon county. Robert Cass entered the land where the old homstead stands. Mr. Burns served in the Black Hawk war, and was afterwards captain in a military company. He is a Democrat and has been for some years, was formerly on the other side of the political fence; he is a member and for many years deacon of the Predestinrian Baptist denomination.

ISamuel R. Campbell, son of William aud Nancy (Reeder) Campbell, the former a native of Tennessee, and the latter of Kentucky. Samuel R. was born in Morgan county, Illinois December 13, 1842. He married Miss Frances A? Funk, November 1, ISe?. She was born July,- 1845, in Scott county, Illinois. By this marriage there were two children born - Henry L., born May, 1869, and Lillie M.,born January 27, 1871. Mrs. Campbell died November 20, 1872. He was married January 22, 1 875, to Martha A. Burns. They have two childreif - John W., born March 29, 1879, and Bertha E., born March 9, 1881. In 1866, he moved to Macon county, Illinois, and purchased a farm, remaining there until the fall of 1874, when he sold out, returned to Sangamon county, and purchased the farm on which he now resides, located on section twenty-nine, Buffalo Hart township. He is a member of the Baptist Church, and in politics a Republican.

Alexander Cass, born in this township, November 3, 1853, is the son of John R. and Mary Jane (Burns) Cass, natives of Kentucky. He is one of a family of thirteen children. He married Cornelia Fenton November 3, 1875. She is the daughter of Alexander and Mary Fenton, of Sangamon county, and lives four miles northwest of Springfield, Illinois. Mr. and Mrs. Cass have one child, Mary Ethel, born May 12, 1880.

Mr. Cass is a farmer and lives near Buffalo Hart Station. He and his wife belong to the Baptist denomination. Politically, he is a Republican.

Ambrose Howen Cass was born February 1 1 , 1811, in Clark county, Kentucky^ and is the son of Robert and Mary (Boggs) Cass. He came to Sangamon county with his parents and a brother, Ninian R., and a sister, Lucy Ann, 1826, arriving in Buffalo Hart Grove, October 2d of that year, and on January 17, 1830, was married to Melinda Burns, a daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth (Ridgeway) Burns, They had eleven children, eight of whom are now living, as follows: Elizabeth, born November 14, 1830, married Michael Finfrock, November 8, 1849, and are now living in Waynesville, DeWitt county, Illinois. They have seven children, viz: Bowen, Helen, Charles, Paul, Irving, Willis, and Ernest. Mary C, born May 8, 1833, married to B. F. Edwards, March 31, 1858, (see his name); Lucy A., born August 31, 1835, married to Dr. Leslie Gillette, April 20, 1859. They have three childdren, Leslie, Fanny and Georgiana, and reside in Buffalo. Louis, born March 10, 1838, married to Christina Lawson, December 24, 1862. They have three children living, four deceased, Clarence, Arthur and Fred. Amos, born March 4, 1838, died April 4, 1840; Albert born March 4, 1841, died August 28, 1842; Paulina, born October 4, 1843, married to Albert Shrieve, October 13, 1864, live in Logan county; Hardin, born September 16, 1845, married to Harriet N. Landis, October 10, 1866, have three children, Phil, Louis B. and Mable. They live in Otto county, Nebraska; Scott, born November 20, ]847, married Sarah Joaes, June 18, 1874; she died November 3, 1878; one child living, Gracie, born June 18, 1875; Marion, born April 12, 1850, married Catharine Shrimp, March 31, 1875; have two children, Hattie and William; live at old homestead. Harry, born February 3, 1854, married Catharine Cole, September 14, 187H; have one child, Bowen; live at old homestead. The land owned by Mr. Cass was entered by himself, R. E. Burns, Robert Cass, Mr. Price and others. He has about eight hundred and sixty acres in this township, all under cultivation. A branch of the Illinois Central Railroad passes through the farm. Mr. Cass was in the Black Hawk war. He and John R Burns are the only survivors who participated in that war, now in Buffalo township. Mr. Cass is of English descent; his grandfather came from there and settled in North Carolina where A. B. Cass' father was born; his mother was a native of Virginia; they moved to Kentucky in 1793, and remained there till 1826. The family are among the earliest settlers in Sangamon county.

John T. Constant, the son of John W., and Lucinda (Cass) Constant, was born February 13, 1830, on section twenty-seven, of Buffalo Hart township, and was married April 16, 1854, to Elizabeth C. Burns, a daughter of Robert E., and Patsy (Cass) Burns, and was born June 7, 1836. They had seven children: two died in infancy. Of those living, Mattie Sybil was married December 15, 1880, to Thomas A. Jack; they live in Buffalo. Robert F., Emma M., Cora K., and Una, Tomasa A. Burns live with their parents in Buffalo Hart Grove. John T. Constant is a farmer and stock dealer, also deals in grain; now present postmaster for Buffalo Halt. He has held most of the township offices. His grand-father, John Constant, came to Sangamon county in 1826, settling in this township, where he entered a large tract of land. Mr. and Mrs. Burns, the parents of Mrs. Constant, came to Sangamon county in 1825. They also settled in this township, where Mr. Burns died. May 24, 1880, At one of the general elections, he voted the only Democrat ticket cast in the township, and was presented a cane by Thomas

L. Harris and John C. Maxcy, two of the candidates. He eventually succeeded in influencing a Democratic majority in the township, and received a handsome watch as a token of respect, and acknowledgment of his influence. Mrs. Burns is still living, and makes her home with Mr. and Mrs. Constant, on the old homestead.

19, 1871. Mr. Constant's parents, Wm. A. and Mary A. (Starr) Constant, were married in Sangamon county, 111., in March, 1842. Mrs. Constant was born July 4, 1845, her parents, James M. and America (Elliott) King, live in Clear Lake township, this county. John E. enlisted at Springfield, Illinois, July 20, 1861, for three years, in what became company B, Eleventh Missouri Infantry, on account of Illinois quoto being filled at the time; re-enlisted as a veteran in same company and regiment, January 1, 1864, and was honorably discharged January 15, 1866, having served throughout the war. He was in the battles of which his regiment participated, siege of Vicksburg, Mobile, Nashville, luka, &c. After the war he attended the Normal University at Bloomington, Illinois, and finished his education. He then engaged in his present occupation, farming. Mr. Constant has served as Assessor of the township two terms, when his present term expires. He is a Republican and has always voted that ticket. He belongs to the Christian Church, and is a man respected by all his acquaintances.

Benjamin F. Edwards lives on section twenty-seven, Buffalo Hart township, is a farmer and stock dealer; born in Madison county. New York, July 12, 1823; is the son of Peter and Mary B. (Anderson) Edwards. Mr. Edwards left his home in Neyi^ York, August 1, 1847, arriving at Springfield, September Ist. Same year he entered a section of limd in DeWitt county. The land he now owns was bought of William R. Constant, and entered by his grandfather, John Constant. Mr. Edwards was married March 31, 1858, to Mary C. Cass; she died April

20, 1881. They had four living children (two died in infancy) - Gaylord, born January 12, 1859, now in California; John P., born February 16, 1862; B. F., born September 7, 1867, and Mary B., born September 16, 1869, are all living at home. Mr. Edwards was engaged as a drover and shipper of cattle, but left that business for farming when he was married. He was educated at Madison county. New York. Is a Republican, and was an active politician about the time of President Filmore's administration.

William S. Enos, a native of Sangamon county, is the son of Abner and Anna (Burns) Enos, and was born December 4, 1832. He was married October 12, 1865, to Jane Dunn, who was born January 29, 1847, in Yorkshire, England. She is the daughter of John and Ann (Hood) Dunn They have three children: Annie, Janette and John Abner. Mr. Enos enlisted August 15, 1862, for three years, in Company B, One Hundred and Thirtieth Illinois Infantry, and was wounded May 22, 1863, in five places, and again, June 4, 1863, by a shot through the foot, all at the siege of Vicksburg. He recovered and was captured, April, 1864, in Gen. Bank's Red river expedition. Was placed in a rebel stockade prison at Camp Ford, near Tyler, Texa», remained in prison thirteen months and nineteen days, was released, went to New Orleans, St. Louis and Springfield, and Avas honorably discharged June 19, 1865. Since then he has been engaged in farming and stock raising. He lives two and a half miles from Buffalo Hart station.

John R. Enos was born March 5, 1848, in Buffalo Hart township, is the son of Horace B. Arminda J. (Constant) Enos. He was married October 28, 1874, to Jane F. Wilson, daughter of Thomas and Jane (Riddle) Wilson (see his name). They have three children living, Horace W., born August 23, 1875, Thomas S. born August 24, 1877, Carrie C. born August 23, 1879. Mr. Enos enlisted in Company F. of the One Hundred and Fourteenth Illinois Infantry, March 8, 1865, for one year, was transferred to Company C. Fifty-eighth Illinois Infantry, July 1865, and was honorably discharged at Montgomery, Alabama. He is at present engaged in farming on section thirty-one, Buffalo Hart Township. Mrs. Arminda J. Enos died September 11, 1857, and Horace B. Enos lives two and one-half miles from Buffalo Hart station.

GershomK. Greening was born May 31, 1841, near the city of Springfield, Illinois. When eighteen months of age his parents moved to Buckhart Grove, in this township, where he has made his home since. When the war of the Rebellion broke out, Mr. Gi'eening enlisted in Company I, of the One Hundred and Fourteenth Illinois Infantry, for three years ; served full term, and was honorably discharged August 8, 1865. He was forty-seven days under fire at the siege of Vicksburg, Mississippi; participated in the siege of Mobile, battles .of Jackson, Guntown and Tupola, Mississippi, raid of General

A. J. Smith after Pi-ice's army, winter of 1864, and all the other many engagements in which his regiment participated. Mr. G. was not wounded, but while acting as color bearer at battle of Guntown, Mississippi, had seven shots through his clothing. After being mustei'cd out of the service at Camp Butler, in this county, he returned home and engaged in farming. He has the confidence of the entire community in which he lives and has had laid upon him many of the public responsibilities of his township, having held the offices of Town Clerk and Collector, and, upon expiration of present term, will have been justice of the peace eleven years. Being an active member of the Christian Church, he has taken great interest in Sunday school matters, being at one time superintendent of two schools, thereby being compelled to go from one to the other, a distance of several miles. At the organization of the Buffalo Hart Grange, in 1873, Mr. G. was elected Master, which office he held until the close of the organization. He is a temperance advocate, being a member of the Good Templars ; also a member of Masonic fraternity. Mr. G. is unmarrierl, and makes his home with his father, John F. Greening, a native of Tennessee, who, with his wife, Elizabeth G. (Rose) Greening, came to Sangamon county, October, 1839.

Mary Aym Leaf, widow of William Leaf, came to the United States in 1854, arriving New Orleans, November 6. She was married to Mr. Leaf in Beverly, Yorkshire, England, January 26, 1841, and they came to Sangamon county from New Orleans in 1856, and located in Buffalo Hart township. They were both natives of England, Mr. Leaf being from there October 19, 1819. They had ten children, but three are living: Charles, born June 19, 1843, married Susan Stevens; have three children, Charles W., Rosa Bell and John Henry. William, born December 11, 1850, married Louella Robbins; and Mollie, born May 19, 1855. Mr. Leaf's children were all born in England, except the youngest, Mollie. Mr. Leaf built four saw-mills; one is yet standing. He left an estate somewhat encumbered with debt, but which has been cleared by the management of his widow since his decease.

Ellen {Hendricks) JJiickett, widow of Benjamin Luckett, was born February 8, 1833. Mr. Luckett, born March 29, 1830, both natives of Kentucky. They were married there, and came to Sangamon county in 1856, where he died, July 18, 1878. They have two children living, Benjamin T., born November 16, 1862, and John

Mrs. Luckett's parents are living in Kentucky. Mr. Luckett died very suddenly, being ill but a few hours; he was a large, corpulent gentleman, and was highly esteemed wherever he was known. Mrs. Luckett lives with her children, on section nineteen, this township; carries on farming with their assistance.

William H. Lyon, the son of Harrison D. and Mary E. (Hickman) Lyon, lives on section eighteen, Buffalo Hart township. He married Sarah A. Day, March 12, 1874. She is the daughter of tra and Electia E. (Wilson) Day, natives of New York, where her father died April 12, 1860. Mrs. Day is now living in Springfield, Illinois, with her sons, who are of the firm of P. F. Day & Bro. Mr. and Mrs. Lyon have two children: Macie E., born October 31, 1877, and May Belle, born February 15, 1879. Mr. Lyon's grand-parents came to Sangamon county in October, 1834, and located northeast of Springfield. His father was born in Shelby ville, Kentucky, May 7, 1815, and was married April 6, 1843. Mr. Lyon is engaged in farming. Priest Brothers, Buffalo Hart station, Illinois, have the only general line of merchandise in the place. The firm consists of O. F. Priest, senior and F. L. Priest, junior member. The firm was originally Jack & Priest, who commenced business at this place in June, 1873, bulb tlie following year Mr. Jack retired, and Mr. Priest's brother, Orville, joined and composed the present firm. Messrs. Priest Brothers carry a very complete line of goods, and enjoy the confidence of the public, as is manifest by their continued success. Their stock of dry goods, clothing, groceries, boots and shoes and numerous other articles is complete in every particular. The Priest bi'others' parents, Fred W. L. and Eveline E. Priest, came to Sangamon county in an early day. He was a native of New York, and she of Vermont. Orville .F. married a daughter of Mr. Jack, of Buffalo, Illinois, who died a few months after the marriage with pulmonary disease contracted before marriage. Her death occurred May 11, 1878. He married May 25, 1881, Jennie M. a daughter of John and Anna (Thompson) Taylor, of Logan county. Mr. Priest is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and was chorister for a long time. Frank L. Priest is unmarried and makes his norae with his brother. At Buffalo Hart, he is at present Township Treasurer. The brothers have held many of the local offices of the town-

Willia?n ^. Mobin so?), hoiB May 29, 1838; is a son of James T. and Minerva (Starr) Robinson. He was married to Arminta Burns, February 2], 1867, and they have two children, John B., and Alice Carey. Mr. Robinson enlisted at Camp Butler, Sangamon county, July 25, 1862, in Company I, One Hundred and Fourteenth Illinois Infantry, Captain King, for three years; participated in the battle of Jackson, Mississippi, siege of Vicksburg, and after the battle of Guntown was taken prisoner June 10, 1863, sent to Andersonville prison, remaining three months; thence to Savannah, Milan and Florence, South Carolina. On the approach of Gen. Sherman's army was removed to Goldsboro, North Carolina, where he was paroled February 25, 1865, released at Wilmington next day, ano honorably discharged at Springfield, Illinois May 30, 1865. He came home and engaged in farming on part of the old homestead where his parents lived and died. He is at present gupervisor of this township. Mr. Robinson's ancestors are natives of England, and came to America in 1829. His father, James T., was a surveyor in England, and his grandfather a barrister. Of the land owned by the family, a large tract was entered by James T. Robinson. The mother of Wm. B., died January 5, 1881.

Thomas Wilson came to Sangamon county in 1847, settled near what is now Riverton, in Clear Lake township. He was born in Dumfreeshire, Scotland, November 4, 1817, and is the son of James and Jane (Frood) Wilson, who both came to Sangamon county and died here, he died December 1, 1875, and she died February 3, 1861. Thomas Wilson was married in Sangamon county, January 15, 1850, to Jane Riddle, a daughter of William H. and Maximilla (Bonsman) Riddle. She was born April 1 4, 1 828, in Logan county Ohio, and came with her parents to Sangamon county when she was nine years of age. Her parents remained here from 1837 until 1851, when they moved to Oregon, where her mother died in Douglas county, her father is still living there. Mr. Wilson has followed farming ever since he came to America, and has a fine farm of three hundred and sixty acres.

The township of Cartwright is locaterl in the noi'thwest part of the county, and is bounded on the east by Salisbury and Gardner, on the west by Morgan county, on the north by Menard county, aad on the south by Island Grove. The township is the largest in the county, being eight by nine miles in extent, having seventy full sections, equal to two congressional townships. The soil is equil to any in the county, and the township is well watered by Richland, Prairie and Spring creeks.

The first settlement in the township was made in 1819, along Richland creek. Among the early settlers were Roland Shepherd, Dallas Scott, Solomon Price, John B. Broad well, William Carson, Samuel Irwin, Moses Broadwell, Robert Milburn, William Crow, David S. Purvines, Edward Pirkins, Hiram Penney, Maxwell Campbell, James H. Doherty, Richard Gaines, Samuel M. Thompson, Moses K. Anderson, Wright Flynn, Robert Wilborn, Mr. Shoosory, David Smith, Abraham Lingard, Solomon Pearce, Samuel Newhouse, Bradley Vance, Evans Martin, Ralph Morgan, Wilson Hamilton, John Purvine, Irwin Masters, Joshua Crow, Buck Davis, Absalom Baker, Solomon Penney, and Peter Cartwright.

Dallas Scott was born April 6, 1T91, in Cumberland county, Kentucky. Sarah Foster was born May 1, 1793, in the same county. They were there married in 1815. The family moved to Sangamon county, Illinois, arriving November 1, 1819, on Richland creek, three miles east of the present town of Pleasant Plains. He died in 1841.

William Crow was born March 5, 1793, in Botetourt county, Virginia. Three brothers, John, Thomas and Andrew Crow, came from Ireland to America during the Revolutionary

War. John was the father of William Crow. John Crow moved to Barren county, Kentucky, when William was a child. William Crow and Miriam Enyart were married in Cumberland county, Kentucky. In 18 19, they moved to Madison connty, Illinois, where he was ordained to preach the gospel by the recognized authorities of the Old School, or Regular, Baptist Church. In the fall of 1820, he moved to what is now Cartwright township, in Sangamon county, north of Richland creek, where Mrs. Mariam Crow died, August 7, 1823. William Crow was married in the fall of 1824, in Cumberland county, Kentucky, to Susan Hall. On his return to Sangamon county, he sold out and settled in what is now the southeast corner of Cass county. Mrs. Susan Crow died April 11, 1846, in Cass county, and Rev. William Crow died August 22, 1865, at Brownsville, Nebraska. He preached from the time he came to Sangamon county until about 1860, a minister of forty years. He was known to all Baptists throughout Central Illinois.

David Simpson Purvines was born May 18, 1787, in Cabarras county. North Carolina. Elizabeth Weddington was born December 25, 1790. Xhey were married in North Carolina, and the family moved to Richland creek, in what became Sangamon county and Cartwright township, arriving in the fall of 1820, where he died in 1852.

Edward Pirkins was born March 15, 1791, on the river Yadkin, Wilkes county. North Carolina. His parents moved, when he was quite young, to Adair county, Kentucky. He was married August 20, 1812, in Campbell county, Tennessee, to Anna Pierce, who was born March 28, 1796, in Blount county, Tennessee. They made their home in Campbell county, Tennessee, and subsequently moved, in company with the family of his father-in-law, Robert Pierce, to

Madison county, Illinois, arrivirg in the fall of 1819. The next spring, the two families moved to Sangamon county, ani\'ing in April, 1820, on Richland creek, in what is now Cariwright township. Edwaid Pirkins lememlers that when himself and his father-in-law, Mr. Pierce, were looking at the conntiy, they were at Island Grove, and Mr, Pierce thought it ought to he called "Lost Grove," because there was not more than enough timber for one family, and, as ore family could not live alcne, it Mould be lost. They went to Richland creek, because theie was more timber there. Claims were laid to it all before it came into maiket, and when it was ready for entry, the timber land was all taken very soon. It had been a source of great anxiety because there were no pre-emption laws to protect the settlers, and they felt veiy much relieved when they had generally secured their homes. This happiness did not last long, for they soon began to worry about how long the timber would last. Mr. Pirkins reiremlers meeting four or five of his neighbois when the timber question cgme up. He gave it as his opinion that he would cut the last stick of his timber in twenty years, and he would have to leave the ccuntiy. One man who had read something about "peat," or turf, tried to console those present with the thought that before the timber was exhausted a plan would be invented to break the prairie, and they could dry the sod, call it peat, and burn it. There is more wood on his land now than when he entered it.

Edward Pirkins took the premium of a goldheaded cane, at the Sangamon county fair, September, 1875, for the best equestrianism by aged gentlemen. There v ere eleven entries, all over sixty years of age. Rev. A. Gross, on behalf of the society, said: "Mr. Pirkins, the committee chosen by the Sangamon County Fair consider you the most graceful rider, and on behalf of the society, I present you with this beauti:^! cane, to which we feel you are justly entitled."

Hiram Penny was born October 5, 1790, in North Carolina, and. was taken when quite young, by his parents, to Pope county, Illinois. He was married in Kentucky, opposite where they lived in Illinois, to Catharine McHenry. They moved to Sangamon county, arriving in the fall of 1822, in what is now Cartwright township. Hiram Penny died December 10, 1852, in Sangamon county. His widow died April 30, 1873, in Wilson county, Kansas.

He moved to Pope county, Illinois, and from there to Sangamon county, and died, March 15, 1821, on Richland creek, in what is now Cartwright township. He had two brothers, Solomon and Robert, Solomon married Jane Renshaw, raised a family and died after leaving the county. His widow, more than ninety years old, lives with her daughter, Mrs. Abraham Freeman, in Springfield

Maxwell Campbell was born October 29, 1795, in Cabanas county, North Carolina. His grandfather, Robert Campbell, came from Scotland, bringing six sons: Robert, James, John, "William, Ssmuel and George. Their arrival in North Carolina was not long before the American Revolution, and all the six brothers Mere soldiers in the Revolutionary army. The second Robert was the father of the subject of this sketch. Maxwell Campbell was married July 25, 1822, in North Carolina, to Nancy Plunkett. She was born June 15, 1806, in the same county. They came to Sangamon county, arriving in May, 1823, end settled at the north side of Richland creek, in what is now Cartwright township. He died in 1881.

Richaid Gaines was born November 8, 1777, in Charlotte county, "Yirginia. Amy C. Green was born February 3, 1782, in the same county. They were married and moved to Barren county, Kentucky, about 1807, then moved to Christian county, then moved to Sangamon county, Illinois, arriving in November, 1825, in what is now Cartwright township, and settled about one mile north of where Pleasant Plains now stands. Richard Gaines was a local preacher in the Methodist Episcopal Church for twenty-five or thirty years. He died January 7, 1845, and Mrs. Amy C. Gaines died August 19, 1871; both of Sangamon county.

Samuel M. Thompson was born February 12, 1801, in Davidson county, eighteen miles west of Nashville, Tennessee. He educated himself, and, in connection with General Moses K. Anderson, taught a military school, having branches in Davidson and Dickson counties. Mr. Thompson came to Sangamon county, Illinois, arriving in the fall of 1828, in what is now Cartwright township. He returned to Davidson county, Tennessee, and was married in February, 1831, to Cynthia McCrary. He returned to Sangamon county in the spring of that year. Mr. Thompson volunteered in 1832, for the campaign against the Indians under their chief, Black Hawk, He was in the company of which Abraham Lincoln was Captain, and was elected First Lieutenant at the time the company was organized, on Rich- laud creek. Lincoln was elected Captain at the same time and place. That company united at Beardstown with another from Sangamon county, under Captain Gooding. They were ordered from Beardstown to Rushville, and were consolidated with two other companies to form the Fourth Regiment, Illinois Volunteers. Lieutenant Thompson was elected Colonel of the Regiment. He was thus promoted over Captain Lincoln. The latter, however, it should be said, was not a candidate for the office of Colonel. The call was for thirty days, expecting the Indians would retreat across the Mississippi river, as they had done the year before. The savages did not retreat, and the regiment was out about sixty days without an engagement. It was disbanded and mustered out of service at Ottawa, June, 1832, by Colonel Zachary Taylor, afterwards President of the United States. Colonel S. M. Thompson and wife had one child, born in Sangamon county; and moved to Beardstown in the fall of 1832.

Mrs. Cynthia Thompson died in October, 1843, near Burlington, Iowa. Colonel Thompson was married in 1855, in Mahaska county, Iowa, to Mrs. Nancy Waldon, whose maiden name was Sullivan. She was a native of Davidson county, Tennessee, also. They reside in Osage county, near Williamsburg, Franklin county, Kansas.

Colonel Thompson has always heard that railroad trains were swift, but he was able to keep ahead of them until November 26, 1874, when he entered a car for the first time at Garnet, Kansas, to visit his old friends in Illinois.

Moses K. Anderson was born November 11, 1803, in Butler county, Kentixcky. His parents died when he was ten or twelve years of age, and he was taken by a relative to that part of Davidson which is now Cheatham county, on Hanpeth river, Tennessee. Cassariller Stroude was born November 25, 1812, in Dickson county, Tennessee. M. K. Anderson and Cassariller Stroude were married in her native county, September 13, 1827, and moved to Sangamon county, Illinois, arriving March 2, 1829, in Avhat is now Cartwright township, four miles east of Pleasant Plains, and south of Richland creek.

Roland Shepherd settled on section three, township sixteen, range seven, in 1819. He sold his claim to Clayborn Jones in 1821, and moved to Adams county, Illinois, where he died.

Clayborn Jones came in 1821, and remained until 1833, when he sold his farm and removed to Henry county, Iowa; fi"om thence to Lynn county, Missouri, where he died about 1845.

John B. Broadwell came in November, 1819, and settled on section four, township sixteen, range seven. He sold to William Carson, and subsequently moved to Kansas, where he died.

Wright Flynn and Robert Milborn arrived Christmas, 1819. Flynn sold his claim to David S. Purvine and moved to Morgan county and died. Milborn sold to Samuel L. Irwin; went about three-fourths of a mile, located another claim which he subsequently sold to Alex Irwin; moved to Cass county and died.

Mr. Shoosong settled on section thirty-one, township seventeen, range eight, and subsequently sold it to David Repsear and Daniel Troy, who retained it two years and then sold to Peter Cartwright.

David Smith came in the spring of 1820, and settled on section thirty-five, township seventeen, range eight; lived and died on the place about 1840.

Samuel L. Irwin was born June 6, 1779, in Cabarras county. North Carolina, and was married to Rachel Hudson, September 23, 1802. In the fall of 1818, the family moved to that part of Tennessee then called the Cherokee purchase, and then to what became Sangamon county, Illinois, arriving April 20, 1820, and first pitched their tents in what is now the northeast part of Pleasant Plains. After a few months' stay, they moved about two miles down Richland creek, at the south side. Mr. Irwin was the father of a large family, several of whom, with their descendants, yet remain in the township. Mr. Irwin died in 1845.

Topographical

The surface of the country is generally level, though sufficiently rolling to afford a fair amount of natural drainage. The soil is a rich black loam, well adopted for the various kinds of grain raised in this latitude. The timbered land of the township is about one mile wide and six long.

The township is watered by Richland, Prairie and Spring creeks, and their tributaries. Richland creek heads on section twenty-seven, township seventeen, range eight, and flows in nearly an eastern direction through the township, emerges from section thirty-six, township seventeen, range seven. One branch of Prairie creek heads on section twenty-four, the other on section twenty-five, township sixteen, range eight, uniting on section twenty-eight, township sixteen, range seven, flows northeast emerges from section thirteen, same township and range. Spring creek heads in Island Grove township, and enters Cartwright, section thirty-three, township sixteen, range seven, and flowing in an eastern direction enters Gardner, from section thirty-six, same town and range.

The mill privileges of the pioneer were often taken into consideration in the purchase of a place, as in the early day many had to go a long distance for their supply of meal and flour, often at great inconvenience. The old Avater mills and the horse mills were slow contrivances, and frequently one would be compelled to wait several days before their wants could be supplied^ The miller always acted upon the motto "First come, first served," and each had to wait his turn. The first mill in what is now Cartwright township was built in 1819, by Mr. Spillars. It was the old-fashioned band-wheel, run by horse power. It had one set of burrs, and was used for grinding both corn and wheat. The second mill was built by J. S. Plunkett, on Richland creek, on the place now owned by S. T. Plunkett. It had one run of burrs, and was first run by horse power, and then by water. Thei'e is now but one mill in the township, and the citizens have choice of a large number within a short distance of their homes.

In 1821, the first step was taken towards the advancement of education, by the building of a log school house on section thirty-four. John Purvine was the first teacher. In the sixty years that have past, much has been done in this direction, and Cartwright township has always been in the front rank in educational progress. There are now in the limits of the township, eleven good, substantial school buildings, valued at 114,000.

The pioneer preacher is deserving of great credit for the noble work which he has done. The early settlers are generally with but little means, so that they are unable to pay the minister of the gospel but a small amount for his labor. Nothing but a love for the cause would tempt one to engage in this work.

Rev. James Sims, a worthy minister of the gospel, of the Methodist Episcopal Church, whose name often appears upon these pages, was the first to proclaim the unsearchable riches of Christ in this township. In the summer of 1820, at the house of Absalom Baker, he delivered his first discourse to the Cartwright people.

The townshij) was organized in 1861, by the Board of Justices of the county, and named " Cartwright," in honor of Rev. Peter Cartwright, the pioneer Methodist minister, who so long resided in the township. The first election was held the first Monday in April, since which time annual elections for township officers have been held. The followng embraces the principal officers elected, from 1861 to 1881, inclusive :

Justices Of The Peace Village Of Pleasant Plains

Madison Glenn erected a dwelling house in 1848, the first within the limits of the present village. At this time, there was no thought of a town ever springing up in the neighborhood.

John Adams came about four years later, and started a blacksmith shop, which added one branch of business, and one more individual to the neighborhood.

Mr. Epler becoming the owner of much of the land here, determined to lay out a village, and accordingly had platted and recorded March 13, 1854, "the southeast quarter of the southeast quarter of section thirty-one, township seventeen, range seven, west, and the northeast quarter of the northeast quarter of sec; ion six, township sixteen, range seven," which comprised the original village plat.

A public sale of town lots was held shortly after i.t was laid out, which resulted in the disposal of quite a number at fair, if not at remunerative prices.

The village had but slow growth, in consequence of other villages springing up on the line of some newly completed railroads, but whatever was gained was of a substantial char- acter. The village was incorporated in 1864. The name given it was that of Pleasant Plains, the name by which the political district country in which it was situated was known previous to the adoption of the township organization law.

Educational And Religious

The first school within the limits of the village was 1857, a school house being erected suitable for the wants of the village at that time, but which in after years became too small, and was finally remodeled to suit the increased demands for more school room, it now being a neat two story edifice with four rooms, three of which are now used for school purposes. In 1865, the school was divided into two grades, which continued until the remodeling of the house, when another grade was added. D. P. .Johnson is the present princij)al. The district has in it one hundred and thirty-two children of school age.

During the year the school house was built, the Methodist Episcopal brethren, then under the pastoral charge of Rev. Wingate J. Newman, built a house of worship at a cost of $6,000. In the winter following a great revival was held in the church at which there were about ninety conversions. Rev. John Slater occupied the pulpit in 1858 and 1859, Rev. Newton Cloud from 1859 to 1861, and then the following named in order: Revs. Greenbury Garner, Henry Wallace, Ira Emerson, Anderson Orr, John Everly, David Lyon, Mr. Irwin, O. H. P. Ash, W. E. Johnson and J, W. Eckman, the last named being the present incumbent. The church is prosperous.

The Presbyterian Chui'ch was built in 18'71-'72, under the supervision of Rev. S. M. Wilson, who organized the society, at a cost of $4,000, Rev. Mr. Wilson deserves great credit for the work accomplished here, as he has kept up the congregation under very trying circumstances. During the winter of 1880-81 a revival was held resulting in about thirty accessions to the church.

The Christian Church of Pleasant Plains, was organized by Elder John L. Wilson on the 15th of September, 1869, with twenty-six members, as follows: J. C. Irwin and wife, Lewis A. Mowery and wife, daughter and son; William Harris and wife, John Bruner and wife, Russell Williams, T. F. Anderson, George Anderson and wife, J. Wickliff Anderson and wi^'e, Mrs. Ballard, Marina Mitchel, Mrs. M. E. Childs, Fanny Howard, Sarah Gardner, Mrs. M. E. Gardner, William Jones and wife, Mary Keyes, and Charles Smith.

The first elders were J. C. Irwin and L. A. Mowery. Deacons, T. F. Anderson and Russell Williatns. A new frame church was completed in 1872, at a cost of $4,000. The preachers in charge since, have been W. E. Nelson, L. L. Norton, Harrison Osborn, J. L. Richardson, J. T. Burton, Thomas Tipton; at present, A. J. Kane. Protracted meetings have been held by N. S. Bastian, McCorkle, Vermilion, Goode, Richardson, Foster and Kane, the present membership of the society (1881), is forty-seven. The church at present is in an unsettled condition, and has no legal ofiicers.

Pleasant Plains may emphatically be termed a moral town, it never having had a licensed saloon, and has three good churches, a graded school, has good sidewalks in various parts of the town, owes not a dollar of bonded indebtedness, and has some money in the treasury.

As a very valuable contribution to tVe history of Cartwright township, which will grow in interest and importance as time passes, we give personal sketches of many of the best known residents, including a number who have passed away.

Edward C. Bain^ M. D., Pleasant Plains, was born in Nashville, Tennessee, on the 20th day of June, 1842; son of Rev. J. R. Bain, of the old school Presbyterian Church, and Sarah Crockett, father a native of North Carolina, and mother of Virginia. They were married in Nashville, Tennessee, where children were born, four sons and three daughters, six of whom are living, viz: Dr. S. 0. D. Bain, a graduate of Nashville University, now practicing medicine in Tennessee; John S. C, a farmer, of Williamson county, Tennessee; Mary A., widow of Crockett Sayers; Sarah J., of Clarksville, Tennessee; Martha A., now Mrs. William Macon, near Clarksville, Tennessee. His father died in 1868; mother died in 1877. The subject of this sketch received a classical education at what is known as the Old Oakes School. At the age of sixteen took up the reading of medicine, under the tutorship of Professor J. Berrian Lindsley, where he remained three years. In 1861, enlisted in the Southern army, where he served with distinction, being promoted to a captancy, and ranked as major, and was on the stafi' of T. H. Bell. Dr. Bain married Miss Sarah Hardin, of Mississippi. By this union there were two children, William H., and Irvine. In 1865, lie graduated at Nashville University, with honors; for his second wife married Miss Matilda Johnston, a daughter of Thomas Johnston, of Virginia. By this marriage there was two children, one of which is

E. D. Ballard, farmer, post office, Richland, was born in Madison county, Kentucky, in 1825. Son of James A. and Paulina (Davis) Ballard, a native of Kentucky. Was married in Madison county, Kentucky. There was a family of six children - three sons and thi'ee daughters - E. D. being the only one of which is living. His brother, Richard, was a soldier in the Union army - Twenty-sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry - and was killed at the battle of Lookout Mountain, November 25, 1863. Also his brother Clifton, was in the Confederate army, and was killed at luka. James A. is still living in Kentucky, at the advanced age of seventy-nine, Mr. James A. Ballard was again married to Miss Lucy Martin, of Kentucky. She died February 10, 1881, in the seventy-first year of her age; mother died September, 1835. The subject of this sketch was reared on a farm, and received a common school education. In 1849, came to Morgan county, where he made his home with Lloyd Brown, of Morgan county, where he remained until 1857, when he married Miss Cynthia Ann. a daughter of M. K. Anderson. She -was born in Cartwright township, December 10, 1840. The fruits of this union was three children, viz: Hattie, born June 2, 1858 ; James A., born June 9, 1860 ; Clifton D., born October 5, 1863. Mr. Ballard, in politics, is a Democrat. Has one hundred and thirteen acres of land, eighty acres of which are under a high state of cultivation, valued at $50. Mr. Ballard came to the State when a young man, with nothing but a strong constitution, and willing to work, accumulated a fine property and home. Mr. and Mrs. B. are members of the Christian Church.

C\ S. Boynton was born in Windsor county, Vermont, June 3, 1822. His father, Levi Boynton, was born in Vermont, and married Miss Mary Griswold of the same State. The subject of this sketch was married in Vermont, to Miss Paulina De May, who was born May 30, 1828, in Vermont. They had two children, viz: Ella and Ervin; the latter was married to Miss K'ltie Carrington, and resides in this township. Mr. Boynton came to this State in 1843, and located on a part of his present farm, and lived here seven years. In 1850, he returned to Vermont, and married as above stated; he brought his bride out to the West with him, to settle on the wide, wild prairies. They located on a farm of one hundred and eighty acres, partially improved. He now owns nine hundred and twenty acres, well improved; raises three hundred and twenty acres of corn and one hundred acres of small grain. Mr. Boynton is one of the wealthy farmers in this part of Sangamon county. In politics he is a Republican.

Thomas H. lerry, farmer and stock raiser, post office, Pleasant Plains, was born in St. Lawrence county. New York, May 3, 1818, son of Hugh and Fannie Ferry; father a native of Vermont, and mother of Connecticut. They were married in St. Lawrence county about 1812. By this union there were twelve childi-en, five of whom lived to be adults, three of whom are living at the present time, viz: Henry, Louisa, of Pleasant Plains, and Thomas H. In 1851, emigrated to Sangamon county, Illinois, and located in Island Grove township, where he followed farming until his death, which occurred July, 1864; mother died November, 1867. Mr. and Mrs. Ferry were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Ferry was reared on a farm and received a common school education. In 1844, married Miss Maria Lamphin. She was born in St. Lawrence county, New York, April 15, 1818. There were four children, three sons and one daughter, one of which is living, Orl E. Mrs. Mariah Ferry died in 1856. He again married Loreita Perrine, a daughter of Parley Perrine, of Royalston, Vermont. She was born in St. Lawrence county, New York, September 16, 1825. The fruits of this marriage was three children, two of whom are living, George P. and John T. In September, 1844, left his home in St. Lawrence county, New York, with teams, camping out, and made their journey in thirty days, arriving in Sangamon county, where he rented land for a few years. In 1849, he purchased land in Cartwright township where he has resided since. Mr. Ferry has a farm of two hundred and eighty acres, valued at fifty dollars per acre; raises one hundred and ten acres of corn; turns out one hundred head hogs and two car-loads cattle yearly. Mr. Ferry came to the county when he was a young man. His only capital was a strong and powerful arm and a good will, and by hard work and good judgment has accumulated a fine property and home. Mr. and Mrs. Ferry are members of the Baptist Church. B. F. Hamilton, farmer and banker, Cartwright township, was born in what is now known as Gardner township, Sangamon county, Illinois, on the 15th day of November, 1824, son of Knox and Jane (Coleman) Hamilton. They were married in Sangamon county, about 1823, where a family of three children were born, the subject of this sketch being the only living one. Father died in 1827. In 1829, Mrs. Hamilton married Mr. Asa Purvines, when R. F. went to live with them, and remained nntil he was twenty years of age, when he started out for himself, hiring himself for $10 per month, for one year. In October, 1827, married Tebiatha Purvines. She was the daughter of Samuel and Mary Purvines. She was born in this county December 18, 1827. There was a family of nine daughters and one son, seven of whom are living, viz : Fannie A., now Mrs. Abram Weir; Mary J., wife of Andrew Zane; Emma M.,wife of Samuel Ayres, of Chicago; Clara M., wife of H. L. Cokenhour, Southwest Iowa, and Willie Lee.

Mr. Hamilton has five hundred and thirty-six acres of land, all under cultivation, and valued at $65 per acre. Pie commenced in the county a poor boy, at the lower round of the ladder, but by good judgment has accumulated a fine property and home. In 1873, embarked in the banking business, which he is still interested in. Has held several local offices of trust in the gift of the people. Represented the township in the Board of Supervisors for ten years.

H. M. IIar7isberger was born in Clark county, Ohio, February 2, 1823. He is a son of Jacob and Martha Harnsberger, who were married in Rockingham county, Virginia, and moved to the State of Indiana, remained about eight years, when his mother died. His father, with his three sons, then came to this county, locating in Cartwright township, where he died in 1847. Mr. H. M. Harnsberger was married February, 1846, to Miss M. A. Harrison, who was born in Kentucky, March 20, 1820. The fruits of this marriage were four children, two sons and two daughters. Mr. H. has a fine farm of four hundred acres. Three hundred and seventy is under cultivation, valued at $60 an acre. Mr. Harnsberger has held the office of County Commissioner for ten years. He is a Democrat. Mr. and Mrs. H. are members of the M. E. Church.

Jonathan Harnett, lumber dealer, was born in Pickaway county, Ohio, January 1, 1832. His father, James Harnett, was born in Perry county, Ohio, in 1809, and was married in 1829, to Miss Mary Pantaus, who was born in Pennsylvania in 1813. His father, James H.,' died in Ohio, and his mother came to Illinois with her son Jonathan H., locating in Pleasant Plains. Mr. Jonathan H. was married November 13, 1856, to Miss E. Fink, daughter of George and Mary Fink. Miss Fink was born December 17, 1830, in Muskingum county, Ohio. The fruits of this marriage were three children, viz: George, born January 21, 1858; Mary, born September 6, 1864; Libbie, born March 6, 1867. Mr. Harnett followed the carpenters' trade for twenty-four years, and then began his present bnsiness here. He carries a stock worth $3,500. He belongs to the A. F. and A. M., and in politics is a Democrat. Mrs. Harnett is a member of the M. E. Church.

Peyton L. Harrison, farmer and stock raiser, post office. Pleasant Plains, was born in Rockingham county, Virginia, on the 7th day of November 1804, son of Fielding and Annie (Quinn) Harrison, his father of Scotch-Irish descent and a native of Virginia, his mother of English descent, also a native of Virginia. They were married about 1780, and raised a family of six children, four of whom are living at the present writing. Peyton L., of Cartwright township; John F., of Kansas; Peachey, who died some years ago; Mary, now Mrs. Irvin Randall, of Edwardsville; Simeon Q., Sangamon county; Martha J., of Wisconsin. In 1800, his father left Virginia and located in Christian county, Kentucky, where he remained until 1822, when became to the Sangamo country with a four-horse team and an old Pennsylvania wagon, camping out and located in Cartwright township, where he died soon after. Previous to his death he made a visit to what is now Christian county, where several families had located from Kentucky, and through his influence the county's name was changed from Dane to Christian. In politics he was an old line Whig, and swayed some influence in Kentucky; in the M. E. church he was a leading member. Mrs. Annie Harrison died about 1840. The subject of this sketch when twenty-one years of age, was apprenticed to a tanner, where he remained three years when he purchased the business and remained six years. In the meantime became acquainted with Eliza B. Cartwright, a daughter of Elder Cartwright, the pioneer preacher of the State. She was born in the State of Kentucky. The fruits of this union was nine children, all of which are living, viz: Francis A., Wealthy M. J., Sarah M., Peachey Q., Eliza C, Peter L., Emily W., Amanda C, and Victoria M. About 1832, he came to Richland creek, when he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land, and moved into a log cabin fourteen by sixteen, without windows, puncheon floors, with a clapboard door, clay and sticks for a chimney, and for a light, cut a log out, and as Mrs. Harrison says, her mother called their cabin the lantern. After a due course of time, a new one took its place, a hewed one, two stories, being at the time one of the finest dwellings in this part of the county. In 1852, he bought land where he now resides. Mr. Harrison is one of the large and influential farmers of the county, owning at present two thousand, and nine hundred acres of land, all of which is under a high state of cultivation, valued at 175.00 per acre. He raises fifteen hundred, acres of corn, and the pi'esent season will average sixty bushels per acre, which amounts to ninety thousand bushels, about one hundred acres of wheat, ships one hundred and twenty head of cattle, and one hundred head of hogs yearly. Mr. Harrison has been identified with the county nearly all his life and has seen the prairies from their wild uncultivated state, to one of the most beautiful counties in the State.

George M. Harrison, M. D., (deceased,) was born in Rockingham county, Virginia, on the 13th day of March, 1813. Came to Illinois in 1822, and settled on Richland creek, Sangamon county. Was tound dead west of his residence, where he had lived over fifty years. Cause of his death unknown. Had been well as common. Been to one of his neighbors on business. Was on his way home. Came to a deep ravine, where he had got off his horse, or fell off before crossing. Was found dead about midnight, September 1, 1873. Aged sixty years. Dr. H. professed religion in his seventeenth year of age, at Waters' Camp Ground, on Spring creek, joined the Methodist Episcopal Church, and continued a member until his death. He was appointed class leader of Cartwright Society three years after meeting with the church. After the Richland Society was formed he was appointed leader there, and remained until his death. Sangamon Circuit had lost one of her best men. His wife had for years kept the light burning for his return at night, for he came home when he told them, unless Providentially hindered. This time God called, and he answered, and w^e believe he is forever with the Lord. A wife and twelve children and other relations mourn his loss. He had been married to Miss Houston in Rockingham county, Virginia, who died, and subsequently he had married Miss Mary A. Megredy. As a physician, he was of the first class, and a graduate of Rush Medical College, of Pliiladelphia. As a citizen, among the earliest settlers for fifty years. F'or uprightness, none excelled him. The Rev. D. P. Lyon was called upon to preach the funeral sermon, from Numbers 23: 10, and never did he feel more forcibly the living character of the righteous who, though he is dead, yet he livetli and preacheth to all in his devoted life. Mrs. Harrison has struggled hard and raised the family. The doctor left a fine property of about six hundred acres of land, valued at 150 per acre.

There was a family by his first wife of three children: Ann Amantha, Reuben H. and Sarah B. C. Of his second family there were nine children, eight of whom are living, viz: Emma, now Mrs. Philip Hodgden; Jennie M., now Mi's. Bukraan, of Menai'd county; Julia, who married W. E. Bukman, died June 18, 1875; Abbie; Lillie, now the wife of W. E. Bukman; John E., W. H., Mary B. and Henrietta. The family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

John H. Harrison, farmer and stock raiser, son of Reuben and Barbara Ann Harnsberger, natives of Rockingham county, Virginia, where they were married, March 29, 1810, where there was born four children, three of whom lived to be adults, viz: George M., John H. and Sarah N. In 1818, his parents emigrated to Christian county, Kentucky, where one daughter was born, Malinda A., where they remained until the fall of 1822, when he moved to Sangamon county Illinois, coming by teams, crossing the Ohio river at Louisville, and locating on the place where Mr. H. now resides, moved into a log cabin eighteen by twenty feet, without a window, making his claim on the Seminary grounds, which he afterwards purchased, where he lived until a few years previous to his death. Having a son in Alabama, he went there to spend the winter, when he died May 3, 1852. Mrs. Babara Ann Harrison died August 23, 1842. Mr. Harrison had been married prior to marrying Mrs. Barbara Ann Harnsberger, to Prathana Harrison. There was one son by this marriage, Leonard C. Mrs. H. died September 20, 1809.

J. H. Harrison was reared on a farm and re ceived his education in log cabins, of which he says in the first one the only light they had came down through the chimney place, there not being a window pane in the building; the following spring, cut out a log and pasted greased paper over that for light. On the l7th day of May, 1843, married Miss Sarah Conover, daughter of Elias and Sarah Conover, natives of New Jersey, where she was born on the 2 2d day of March, 1825. The fruits of this marriage was ten children, seven of whom are living, viz: Charles H., Samuel B., George R., liote T., John v., Susan, now Mrs. James G. Crow and Annie A. He has four hundred and seventy-two acres of land, valued at $65 per acre; raises one hundred and eighty acres of corn, fifty acres of wheat, fifteen acres of oats and turns off eighty head of hogs, yearlv. Mr. Harrison has been a resident of Cartwright township for fifty-nine years, and has land that has been under cultivation that length of time, and the present season will yield sixty bushels of corn to the acre. He is one of the large and well-to-do farmers of the county,

Joseph W. Sayes, farmer and stock raiser, post office, Pleasant Plains, was born on the place where he now resides, on the twentyseventh day of September, 1852; son of Augustus W., and Mary Ann (Wright) Hayes, natives of Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, where they were married, and seven children were born, four of which are living: Sarah, now the wife of Dr. Albert Atherton, of Pleasant Plains; Mary J., wife of R. J. Rudesall; Charlotte, wife of I. P. Smith; Rebecca, wife of George W. Fink. In 1824 and 1825, Augustus W. Hayes emigrated to Sangamon county, Illinois, and located in Cartwright township, where he had previously purchased land, and commenced farming, where he remained uutil his death, which occurred September 12, 1879; mother in 1880. Mrs. Hayes was a member of the Methodist Ej^iscopal Church, a sincere Christian and loved and respected by all who knew her. After coming to this county there were children born - Margaret H., and the subject of this sketch; was reared on a farm until he was twentyone years of age, and received a practical business education - attended the Springfield Business College. In 1872 or 1873, embarked in the mercantile business at Pleasant Plains, in company with his father, where they prosecuted the business for four years, when they sold their interests to William Beakman, since which time he has followed farming. In 1877, married Miss Fannie M. Pierce, a daughter of Lowell Pierce. She was born in Connecticut in 1855. By this union there are two children, Harry D., and Mary M. Mr. Hayes has one hundred and sixty acres of land under cultivation, valued at $75 per acre. Raises ninety acres of corn and one hundred head of hogs. Mr. Hayes is a member of the Masonic fraternity. Mr. Hayes is a young man and has been identified with the county all his life.

Levns Huher, Cartwright township, is the youngest son of John Huber, Sr., and was born in a log cabin on his father's farm, in Amanda township, Fairfield county, Ohio, June 30, 1810. His father, at this time, owned a tract of three hundred and twenty acres of land adjoining the village of Royalton. Lewis' principal educational advantages were those usually enjoyed by the sons of pioneers, and consisted of a few terms in the district schools, held in a iog cabin, with the old fashioned slab benches and writing desks of the same material. High schools and academies were almost unknown.

Lewis continued with his father on a farm until his eighteenth year, and was hardly off it, with the exception of one occasion he spent about sixty days, in company with his half brother, John Huber, Jr., in driving some twelve hundred head of hogs to market at Baltimore, the principal shipping point of that region of country. About this time he had a severe attack of billions fever, which incapacitated him for farm labor. He says he was attended by an old school physician, and was "bled, blistered, and purged with combined doses of calomel and ipecac," until he "thought Heaven and earth was about to unite, being refused both fresh water to drink or fresh air to breathe." On recovery, as he could not labor on the farm, he was sent to an academy for three months, at Circleville, Ohio, at the expiration of which time he engaged with his half brother, Isaac Darst, who had removed to Circleville with a stock of merchandise, as salesman and book-keeper. Here he remained from 1828 to 1832. His health still being feeble, he engaged in out-door work, purchasing horses for the eastern markets, and cattle for the Michigan trade, that territory then being rapidly settled by eastern people. He followed this business until the fall of 1833.

The firm of Drain & Fauger, of Lithopalis, Ohio, being dissolved, by the death of the former, Mr. Huber was pursuaded by Mr. Fauger to accept a position in the store. The fall trade being brisk, Mr. Fauger desired a partner, and offered the position to Mr. Huber, who accepted, for the double reason, a good trade was being had, and the location was healthy. The firm of Fauger & Huber existed until the fall of 1834, when Mr. Huber purchased the interest of his partner, and enlarged the business, by establishing a branch store at Royalton, under the charge of a nephew, Jefferson Darst. This branch store was continued until the fall of 1836, when he sold out and established another branch store at Jefferson, Fairfield county, Jefferson Darst superintending the business. In 1837, the stock of goods was withdrawn to Lithopolis. During this year, Mr. Huber packed the first barrel of pork in Lithopolis, but rather from compulsion than choice, as the finances of the whole country were so unsettled, and money so scarce, that collections could not otherwise be made. The business, however, proved very profitable, and Mr. Huber purchased a large number of hogs from the farmers, on time, as well as receiving them on debts. Mr. Uuber continued in business until his health became so much impaired that, in 1838, he sold out his entire stock to certain parties, giving them time to make the payments. He then remained out of business for a time, when the firm to whom he sold became involved to such an extent that, to save himself, in part, he purchased the stock. He has the satisfaction of knowing the firm yet owes him |1,000. Going to Baltimore, Mr. Huber made a satisfactory compromise with his debtors' creditors, so that he might purchase the real estate, which was to be sold at sheriff's sale. A bachelor uncle died about this time, and left him about $3,000, which enabled him to make the necessary transactions. The real estate then purchased, with what he was owning previously, gave him $15,000 worth of unproductive capital. Mr. Huber still remained in business, but in 1850, he closed out his stock of merchandise and began to settle up outstanding claims then due him. About this time, his business trouble began. Needing about $3,000, circumstances were such that neither of the banks at Columbus or Lancaster, Ohio, could accommodate him, although his credit had always been good with them, as he never had a note protested, and the cashier of the Columbus bank complimented him by saying that he was among his best customers. A friend informed him that he could be accommodated at Zanesville, Ohio, and he went to that place, and, unfortunately, gave a judgment note for the amount he wished to borrow. Sickness overtaking him, when the note was due he was unable to pay. Judgment was entered up against him, and an execution sworn out, and the end was that similar to thousands of others. Every creditor felt that he must push his claim or he would lose it all. They did push. It is unnecessary to say more.

Mr. Huber experienced the joys of religion in the winter of 1831, and united with the First Presbyterian Church, in Circleville, Ohio, subsequently by letter, he united in Lithopolis, and was there e]ecte<l a ruling elder. In every work of the church there, he was an active participant. In 1855, Mr. Huber and family removed to Illinois, and settled in Cartwright township; there being no Presbyterian Church near, he united with the First Presbyterian Church, Springfield. When the church at Pleasant Plains was formed he and his wife united by letter, and remained in that connection until 1857, when by request, a letter of dismissal was given him, to unite with

In politics, Mr. Huber was originally a Whig, and on the dissolution of that party was undecided where his lot shouid be cast, politically. Finally, after a visit South, he concluded his place was with the Democracy. In 1860, he voted for John C. Breckenridge; he remained a Democrat up to 1872, when the nomination of Horace Greeley was too much for him. In 1873, he helped organize the Anti-Monopoly party, and again, assisted in the organization of the Greenback party, with which he now affiliatts.

Mr. Huber, for many years, has been a strong advocate of the hydropathic system of the treatment of the sick, and since 1853, has used no drugs in his household.

In concluding this sketch, it is but just to say that Mr. Huber bears testimonials from Hon. John M. Palmer, Judge C. S. Zane, Governor S. M. Cullom, Hon. John T. Stuart, and J. Thayer & Co., endorsing [him asa business man of integrity, and worthy the confidence of all.

Alexander B. Irwin, farmer and stock raiser, section three, post office Pleasant Plains, was born in Cabarras county. North Carolina, on the 7th day of February, 18H, son of Samuel L and Rachel (Hudson) Irwin; father of Irish descent, and a native of North Carolina; mother of German descent, and a native of Virginia. They were married in Cabarras county. North Carolina, in 1801, where there was a family of ten children born, seven daughters and three sons. In the fall of 1819, his parents left North Carolina with a four-horse wagon, and came to East Tennessee, where they spent the winter, and where one son was born. In the following spring, came to Sangamon county, and located where the town of Pleasant Plains now stands. Their first summer was spent in their wagon-bed. Cutting a couple of logs, they rolled them up, and placed their wagon between them, building their camp-fire in front. That spring, broke and planted twelve acres of corn. The following fall, built a log cabin, sixteen by eighteen, where they remained one year, when they moved to where Mr. Irwin now resides, took up land, built a cabin, which is standing at the present time, where he remained until his death, which occurred March 1, 1845. In politics, was an oldline Whig. Mrs. Rachel Irwin died in 1866 or 1867. The subject of this sketch was reared on a farm, and received a limited education. October 18, 1838, married Miss Cynthetia Broadwell, daughter of John B. Broadwell, of Ohio. She was born in St. Louis, October 17, 1819.

The fruits of this marriage were five children, three of whom are living, viz.: Amos D., Betsey J., and Sarah P. Mr. Irwin has resided on the place where he now lives forty-three years, and says his intention is to spend the balance of his life in the same place. Mr. Irwin has held several local offices of trust in the gift of the people, justice of the peace for four years, and supervisor of the town; is one of the large and enterprising farmers of the county, owning seven hundred and seventy-eight acres of land, six hundred under cultivation, valued at $75 per acie; raises three hundred acres of corn, fifty acres of wheat, fifty acres of oats; feeds two carloads of cattle, and the same of hogs.

B. F. Irwin, retired farmer, was born m Sangamon county, in 182'2. His father, S. L. Irwin, was born in North Carolina, 1779. He was marr ed in North Carolina, 1802, to Miss R. Hudson, who was born in Virginia in 1785. In 1819, they emigrated to Tennessee, resided there one year, then came to Sangamon county, April, 1820, and located where Pleasant Plains now stands; lived there two months, then moved to a small .farm where he resided until his dea'h, which occurred in 1845; his wife followed him in 1367; they left a family of fifteen children. Mr. B. F. Irwin was married to Miss Jane Combs. They had one child. Mrs. Irwin died in 1848. He man led for his second wife. Miss Martha Huber, who was born April 1, 1834. The fruits of this marriage were two children, one son and one daughter, the latter now deceased. Mr. Irwin has a fine farm of four hundred acres in this township, and one of four hundred and eighty acres in Nebraska. The farm in this county is valued at sixty dollars an acre. In politics, he is a Republican.

F. M. Jordan, M. D., Pleasant Plains, Illinois; was born in Menard county, Illinois, on the 22d day of May, 1826. His father, Henry Jordan, was born in Ohio, about 1804. His mother, Ksah Hull, was born in the same State in 180S, where they were married in 1825. The following year came to Illinois and located in Menard 'county, where he lived until his death, which occurred in 1869; mother still living and resides in Kansas. The subject of this sketch married Miss R. M. Michner; she was born in Ohio, May 29, 1840. Her parents emigrated to Illinois and located in Decatur, Macon county, when she was three years old. The fruits of this marriage is two children, viz: Aura D., born July 27, 1866, and Frank T., born March 7, 1870. The Doctor received a classical education at the Normal University of Illinois. After leaving school, commenced the reading of medicine in Decatur, with Dr. W. B. Hosttetler, where he remained one and a half years, and the following six years practiced medicine, and in the meantime taught school. In 1872, attended lectures and graduated at Rush Medical College, Chicago; thence went to Shelbyville, Illinois, where he followed his profession four years. He then went to Chicago, where he attended a post graduate course, and practiced in the free dispensary for three years, when he came to New Berlin, where he formed a partnership with Dr. W. L. Fulton, where he remained one year, when he came to Pleasant Plains, where he has followed his profession. Mr. and Mrs. Jordan are members of the M. E. Church.