Sangamon County, Illinois - The whole text, 1912 (part 14 of 46)

FERGUSON, Benjamin Hamilton (deceased), long one of the most prominent business men of Springfield, IN., was for thirty-five years connected with the Marine Bank and for many years its President. He was a lifelong resident of Springfield, his birthplace, and was active in public affairs. He was one of the most highly respected citizens and well known men of the city and his loss was genuinely mourned in many circles. Mr. Ferguson was born December 5, 1835, and was a son of Benjamin and Sarah (Irwin) Ferguson, both natives of Pennsylvania, the former born in Monongahela City. Benjamin Ferguson was a contractor and builder and died in Springfield in 1842. He was a member of the Washingtonian Society, a temperance organization, to which Abraham Lincoln also belonged, and about the time of the death of Mr. Ferguson Mr. Lincon made an address on the subject of temperance in the Second Presbyterian Church of Springfield, the date of this occasion being February 22, 1842. Mr. Ferguson was married in Pennsylvania and came to Springfield in 1835, and his children were all born in this city. They were: William, a prominent lawyer, who died in California; Hlizabeth, married Jacob Bunn, of Springfield; Robert, died in Springfield, though his home was in Auburn, Ill.

Benjamin H. Ferguson received his early education in the schools of Springfield. He left school at the age of sixteen years, and was then clerk and bookkeeper in the store of Jacob Bunn. After his return from the war he entered the Marine Bank, being Cashier for several years, and advancing to the office of President of that sound, substantial, conservative institution, one of the oldest banks in the State. Mr. Ferguson carried out the established policies of the bank in every way and under his careful and able administration it prospered and maintained the position of trust and confidence it had held so many years.

Mr. Ferguson was a stanch Republican all his life and active in the interests of the party. He was united in 1866 with the First Presbyterian Church of Springfield, and his widow | is also a member of that church. In August, 1862, Mr. Ferguson recruited Company B, One Hundred Fourteenth Illinois Infantry, and was elected its Captain, serving as such two years. He participated in the Siege of Vicksburg, the battle at Jackson, and in many lesser engagements. He was a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, being affiliated with Stephenson Post, of Springfield.

Besides being prominent.as a banker Mr, Ferguson was for many years a successful merchant, having established a crockery and glassware store at the corner of Monroe and Sixth

Streets, Springfield, in 1868, where he conducted one of the largest establishments of its kind in the city and did an immense business. He was one of the most upright and honorable of men and possessed the full confidence of all who came in contact with him in business or social life. He was interested in any measure calculated to be of public benefit and promoted the welfare and progress of the community in many ways.

Mr. Ferguson was married at June 16, 1864, to Miss Alice, daughter of Judge B. S. Edwards, who was a prominent lawyer in Springfield and served as Judge of the Circuit Court. His biographical record appears on another page in these volumes. She was born in Springfield. No children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Ferguson. The widow now resides at the beautiful home at 815 North Fifth Street.

FERNANDES, Joseph. - The natives of Portugal and its dependencies have proven good citizens of the United States and are gladly welcomed when they come here. Sangamon County has attracted a number of them, the mines, mills and railroad interests centering here giving them employment and the locality affording them the opportunity to purchase homes. One of the men who have been associated with the county for several years is Joseph Fernandes, now retired, living at No. 1125 Hast Miller Street, Springfield. He was born in the Island of Madeira, in August, 1832, being a son of Antonia and Frances Fernandes, both of the same locality. The father was a gardener and came to America with a family consisting of three sons, three daughters and his wife. They landed at Baltimore and from there came direct to Springfield. This city, however, remained the home of the parents but a short time, for they moved to Jacksonville, where they died.

Joseph Fernandes received a somewhat limited education in his native land, but was ambitious and ready to work at anything that offered him a living with opportunity for advancement. He first worked as brakesman on the Chicago & Alton Railroad, continuing with this company for eight years, then went with the Wabash Railroad. After several years with that road, he entered the Springfield Rolling Mills, in 1872, continuing with this concern until it closed, since when he has lived retired. Always working steadily and saving his money, Mr. Fernandes was able to buy his home and is in comfortable circumstances.

In 1866, Mr. Fernandes was married in Springfield to Lucy Kean, born in the Island of Madeira in 1835, where her parents died, and she is the only survivor of her family. Mr. and Mrs. Fernandes became the parents of six children, two of whom are living: Dudy, wife of James Gomes, of this city; and Lucy, wife of John Rumble, of Virginia, Ill. There are seven grandchildren in the family.

FERO, Ira W. (deceased). - There is one branch of artistic endeavor which requires more than ordinary skill and knowledge in its successful prosecution. It has not attracted as many representatives as some othes lines of work, but those who are engaged in it, if they become proficient, are certain of a remunerative and pleasant way of gaining a livelihood. The late Ira W. Fero was for many years the leading exponent of terpsichorean art in Springfield, and from him the youths and maidens learned the latest ideas with regard to dancing. Mr. Fero was born in New York State, March 9, 1835. His father was a farmer and merchant, and after Ira W. finished his school course, he clerked in a store until he reached his majority. However, his inclinations ran in another direction, and he did not purpose to spend his life behind the counter.' Finally, he moved to Decatur, Ill., about 1875, there to open a dancing academy, where he taught some of the best people of the city. After two years at Decatur he came to Springfield, where he continued his business until his demise, in July, 1896. His remains were interred in beautiful Oak Ridge Cemetery, at Springfield.

Mr. Fero was a Methodist in religious faith, but his wife and daughter are Episcopalians. Absorbed as he was in his business, he had little time for politics, and did not actively espouse any party, voting independently. On November 17, 1866, Mr. Fero was married, in New York, to Mary Jane Dickerson, daughter of Daniel and Sarah (Miller) Dickerson, natives of Virginia and Kentucky, respectively. They were farming people who came to Sangamon County at an early day, and became identified with its agricultural interests. Mr. and Mrs. Fero had two children: Eva, born April 27, 1883, resides with her mother, and a son who died at birth. The family residence is at No. 41914 East Monroe Street, and there the ladies warmly welcome their friends. They are carrying on the dancing academy, whose excellence is fully maintained, and both take a strong interest in their work. They are charming ladies, cultured and refined, and have the respect and confidence of all with whom they are associated in either a professional or social way.

FERREIRA, Isaac, one of the essentially selfmade men of his community and generation, has risen through his own unaided efforts to a position of importance, and is now proprietor of a large store, dealing in groceries, fruits, vegetables, fish and poultry at No. 624 Grand Boulevard, Springfield. He was born August 24, 1861, in the Second Ward of that city, where he has spent his life. He is a son of James Ferreira, born on the Island of Madeira, July 5, 18386, son of Joseph Ferreira, also of Madeira, where he died. When only- sixteen years old, James

Ferreira, with his mother and five other children, came from New York City, where they had landed, to Springfield to join relatives. The lad learned the harness-making trade and carried it on for many years. At present he resides at the corner of First and Carpenter Streets. In 1860 he was married in Springfield, to Charlotte Vieira, born on the Island of Madeira, in September, 1844, a daughter of Joaquin and Mary Vieira. Mr. Vieira came to America with his family in 1846, and after landing in New York came to Springfield. Mr. and Mrs. Ferreira had children as follows: Isaac, Charlotte, Sarah, Mary, Jennie; Rodsie, deceased; James, deceased; Effie, Lucy, John, Albert, Louise and Marguerite.

Isaac Ferreira attended what is now the Trapp School, and studied under several wellknown teachers, including Miss Hughes, Miss Mary Sell and Thomas Catlin, whom he gratefully remembers. When he was sixteen years old he began learning the blacksmith trade, with Booth & McCoker, at the corner of Eighth and Washington Streets. Later he Went with Henry Marks, at the corner of Eleventh and Madison Streets, where for three years he worked in the grocery business. Following this he was clerk and book-keeper with several concerns, then entered the establishment of R. C. Steele, with whom he remained twelve years, and for ten years was head clerk. At this time he began business for himself on Monroe, between Fourth and Fifth Streets, remaining on that block for twenty-four years. In December, 1909, he moved into his present store, which is 63x23 and has a double frontage. The building is of pressed brick, with flats above. It is fitted with electric and gas lights, hot and cold water, cemented cellar, and all modern improvements. In addition to erecting this building Mr. Ferreira has built twenty-five residences in different parts of the city, and is now one of the most prosperous merchants of Springfield. He is a stanch Republican in politics. Formerly he attended the First Presbyterian Church, which is Portuguese, but his family are members of the West Side Christian Church. Fraternally he is a member of the Odd Fellows, Maccabees and Modern Woodmen.

On January 22, 1895, he married Molly Meline, of Jacksonville. They have children as follows: Lucille, aged fifteen years; Leon, aged fourteen years; James, aged twelve years; Joseph, aged ten years, and Robert, aged eight years.

Hard-working, eager to seize upon opportunities as offered, Mr. Ferreira presents a striking example of what can be accomplished through sturdy endeavor, backed by strict honesty and thrifty habits.

FERREIRA, John H. - A general blacksmith whose business is located at No. 214 North Second Street. Springfield, is a man who has succeeded well and now specializes on plow and wagon work and horse-shoeing. He was born August 26, 1863, on the corner of Second and Carpenter Streets, Springfield, a son of John Ferreira and Mary (Vasconcellos) Ferreira, the former born on the Island of Madeira, in June, 1888, and the latter in the same place in May, 1841. She was a daughter of Joseph Vasconcellos. John Ferreira came to the United States in young manhood with his widowed mother and her six other children. He learned wagon making in Springfield and followed that trade for some time, then located on his farm of fifty acres, where he and his wife are both living. They had children as follows: John H., Harvey, Lewis; Lizzie, married Jess Neef, of Island Grove Township; William, of Sun Prairie; Mary, Mrs. Harry Shoemaker, of Springfield.

John H. Ferreira attended the Trapp School in Springfield until he was twelve years old, then the family moved to the farm his father had bought in Island Grove Township. For three years the lad worked on the farm, then learned the blacksmith trade. Following this he worked with a number of well-known men in this line, finishing his apprenticeship by the time he was eighteen years old. He then went to Grand Rapids, where he spent eight years. Coming back to Springfield, he started in business for himself. While a Republican on national questions, he is liberal about matters pertaining to local government. Fraternally he belongs to the Masons, Modern Woodmen, and Royal Neighbors, and is popular in all.

Mr. Ferreira was married in Grand Rapids, December 28, 1891, to Miss Ella Benson, of that city, daughter of the late Hans Benson. Their children are: Arthur W. and Emma Rosette. Mr. Ferreira belongs to a class of men who are steadily working towards better government and general advancement. Industrious and hard-working, strict in business probity, Mr. Ferreira believes in uprightness in public office and casts his vote for the man he deems will best carry out its obligations.

FERRIS, George D. - It is considered a distinction to come of families whose forebears fought for the independence of this country. There are a number of men in Springfield who can lay claim to this distinguished honor, and among them is George D. Ferris, a retired brick mason, whose grandfather on the paternal side of the house was a soldier in the War of 1812. Mr. Ferris was born at Portage, Ohio, September 19, 1833, being a son of Joseph and Sevalla (Rounds) Ferris, natives of Portage, Ohio, and New York State. The father was a stone cutter by trade, who in 1849 went to California after gold, and died there. His widow died in Ohio.

George D. Ferris was educated in Portage, Ohio, going to school in a- little log building, where the pupils sat on slab benches. These schoolhouses were very primitive, with puncheon floors, greased paper windows, and a rude log door hung on homemade hinges. Yet these primitive affairs withstood the attacks of wind and weather better than many of our modern structures which are old when but a decade has passed. He learned the stone cutting trade with his father, later adding that of brick mason, and worked at the latter for forty years. In 1854 he came to Springfield, having great faith in its future, and soon branched out into- contracting. He worked on the gubernatorial mansion from the foundation up, as well as on other important buildings during the many years he was in business. For the past fourteen years, he has been retired, residing in his present residence No. 731 North Seventh street, where he has resided twenty-eight years. Mr. Ferris has an excellent war record, enlisting in Company E, One Hundred and Fourteenth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, with which he served for three years, being mustered out at Camp Butler. He served under General Sherman, participating in many battles that left their trail of blood over both north and south, and, after forty-five years of peace, still raise painful memories including those of the Pittsburg campaign, and the battles of Mobile, Nashville and Vicksburg (Miss.). Naturally Mr. Ferris is very prominent in Stephenson Post, No. 30, G. A. R., of Springfield. He attends the English Lutheran Church, and in politics he has always been a Republican. Mr. Ferris was married in Springfield, December 3, 1861, to Matilda Sourmon, born in Pennsylvania, November 10, 1845. Her parents came to Springfield at an early day, first stopping in Milwaukee, Wis., but not liking it there they pressed on to Springfield, which became their home, and continued so until their deaths. The father was a brick layer, mason and contractor. Mr. and Mrs. Ferris have no issue. Mr. Ferris is much interested in securing good, reliable government and is always willing to do a fair share in this connection.

FERRY, George P. - The land of Sangamon County, Ill., being peculiarly adapted for grazing purposes, it is only natural that there should be many farmers in the county giving much of their attention to the breeding of fine cattle and horses, and some of the finest stock to be found at the livestock fairs held all over the country comes from this section of Illinois. One of Sangamon County's farmers is George P. Ferry, who conducts a general farm on Section 3, Cartwright Township. Mr. Ferry was born on Section 13, in this township, May 10, 1862, and is a son of Thomas H. and Loretta (Perrin) Ferry, natives of St. Lawrence County, ING Ws

Thomas H. Ferry, who was reared in St. Lawrence County, N. Y., made a trip to Sangamon County, Ill., in 1846, and there bought land. He had first married Maria Lamphier, by whom he had one son, O. E. Ferry, now a prominent retired farmer of Eldorado, Kan., and after the death of his first wife he returned to New York, where he was again married and returned to Sangamon County in 1858. He located on his farm in Cartwright Township, turned his attention to the cultivation of his land, and became one of the leading agriculturists of his day. Mr. Ferry was a man loved for his integrity of character and his many sterling qualities, and was a devout church member, giving liberally of his means for the support of the Presbyterian Church. He was called to his final rest January 4, 1899, his wife surviving him until June 25, 1905. To them there were born four children, of whom two died in infancy, the other two being George P. and John T., the latter a farmer in Cartwright Township.

George P. Ferry obtained his education in the district schools of Cartwright Township and at the age of sixteen years was given charge of the home farm, on account of the serious illness of his father. At the time of the latter's death, the home farm was divided, and George P. remained on his share of the property until March, 1902, when he sold this land and invested in 242 acres on Sections 3 and 10, Cartwright Township. Mr. Ferry has given particular attention to the breeding of fine horses, of which he has a large number on his farm. He is a lover of and an acknowledged judge of horses, being always willing and ready to pay a fair and honest price for a good horse. A man of honesty and integrity, his customers are always sure of a fair and square deal, and as a result his dealings have been far above the ordinary.

On December 22, 1887, Mr. Ferry was married to Miss Louella Durand, who died September 20, 1899, without issue. On February 20, 1907, he was married to Miss Mary A. Smith, and to this union there have been born two children: Lena L., born December 7, 1907, and Mary Frances, born July 10, 1909.

Mr. Ferry has always taken a prominent part in all public enterprises and has been a leader in every movement that has promised to be of benefit to his community. He has been a supporter of the principles of the Republican party, but has steadily refused to accept publie office. Although a member of no religious denomination, he is a liberal supporter of all creeds. Mrs. Ferry is a member of the Baptist Church. In his fraternal affiliations Mr. Ferry is connected with the Masonic Lodge No. 700 and the Modern Woodmen of America, both of Pleasant Plains. His business interests have taken him all over the county, and he enjoys the respect and esteem of all who have come into contact with him, whether in a business or a social way.

FERRY, John T. - A representative citizen and successful agriculturist of Sangamon County, Ill., who is cultivating on excellent property of 136 acres on Section 33, Cartwright Township, was born just south of Pleasant Plains, Ill.,

Miss Maria Lamphier, who died leaving him one son, O. E. Ferry, of Eldorado, Kan., and he was married a second time to Loretta Perrin, who bore him four children, of whom two died in infancy, the survivors being: John T. and George P., the latter a prominent farmer and stock-raiser of Cartwright Township. Thomas H. Ferry first came to Sangamon County in 1846 and purchased land, but after the death of his first wife returned to New York, whence he again came to Illinois in 1858, and spent the remainder of his life on his farm, becoming one of the leading men of his township, and a man admired and esteemed for his honesty, integrity and many charities. He died January 4, 1899, and his wife followed him to the grave June 25, 1905. ' The boyhood of John T. Ferry was passed much the same as that of other farmers' boys of his day, his education being secured in the district schools during the time that he could spare from his duties on the home farm. Drilled to the life of a farmer and stockraiser, he has made this his life work, and at the age of twenty-two years he rented a part of the home farm, successfully operating sixty acres for a period of two years. On November 13, 1890, he was united in marriage with Miss Viola Purvines, who was born near their present home in Cartwright Township, February 10, 1865, the daughter of William G. and Emily Frances (Eaton) Purvines, both of whom were born in Cartwright Township. Mr. Purvines dates the coming of his family to Sangamon County as far back as 1822 or 1825, and he now resides in the village of Pleasant Plains, being one of the extensive landowners of the township. Mr. and Mrs. Purvines are still living, as are all of their children, there haying never been a death in the family. Their children are as follows: Mrs. Ferry; Loran, a farmer of Cartwright Township; Alice, the wife of Augustus H. Atherton, a farmer of Cartwright Township; Carroll, a rancher of Panhandle, Carson County, Tex.; Beulah, the wife of Homer G. Doughit, who farms in Cartwright Township; Walter, a large landowner in the Panhandle district, Tex.; and Edith, who resides with her parents.

After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Ferry loeated on a farm in Auburn Township, and here he successfully continued in agricultural pursuits until 1899, when he purchased the present property, a fine tract of 136 acres, which he has cultivated to a high state. His property can boast of well-kept fences, graded pastures, excellent barn and outbuildings and a 'comfortable dwelling. He uses the latest and most highly improved farm machinery in his work, and breeds a high grade of cattle.

lave prompted his fellow citizens to tender 1im places of public preferment, but he has always declined to hold public office, preferring to give his time and attention to his agricultural interests. Although a member of no religious body, he is always ready to give liberally to church and charitable movements, and is a firm believer in education. Mrs. Ferry has ong been an active member of the Methodist Church.

FETZER, John P., a prominent and thrifty young farmer of Cartwright Township, Sangamon County, was born near Richland, that township, March 2, 1878, a son of Frederick and Margaret (Raps) Fetzer. Frederick Fetzer was a native-of Prussia, whose father died in that country, and when about seventeen years of age the young man, with three brothers, came to America. They emigrated about 1853 and came direct to Illinois, spent a short time at Kankakee, then came to Springfield. Frederick Fetzer there followed his trade of carpenter and was married in January, i862. He bought land on Section 15, Cartwright Township, about 1874, there reclaimed wild land and put it under cultivation, and erected a nice home. In the spring of 1910 he retired and now resides on College Street and Capital Avenue, Springfield, where he and his wife are enjoying the fruits of a well-spent, busy life. His first purchase of land was 147 acres, to which he added from time to time, until he owned 410 acres in that township. He built the house and in other ways greatly improved the place where he made his home and both farms are now in a high state of cultivation. He has always been ready to help forward any enterprise for the public good. He and his wife are members of the German Lutheran Church of Springfield, and to them were born seven children, five of whom are living. They are: Anna, wife of Rev. F. Engelbert, in charge of the German Lutheran Church at Braddock, Pa.; Katherine, wife of William C. Vogt, a dry-goods merchant of Springfield; George, a machinist of Des Moines and interested in the traction company at that city; John P.; Edward J. F., on the old home farm on Section 15. When Frederick Fetzer came to America he had no money with which to make his start in life, but went to work with a will to earn some, and by economy and industry was able to attain gratifying success.

John P. Fetzer spent his boyhood on a farm, as did many another farmer's son, attending school as he could be spared from the farm work, and became a practical farmer before attaining his majority. He remained at home until about twenty-one years of age, then rented his father's farm in Section 2, and on August 15, 1900, married Miss Nellie Mitchell, a native of Campbellsville, Ky. She was born January 12, 1882, and is a-daughter of James D. and Edith (Schbofner) Mitchell, who came to Sangamon County in 1884. After his mar- riage Mr. Fetzer took charge of his father's farm on Section 2 and has since operated this tract of 163 acres, being at present in charge of 213 acres altogether, and successful in his enterprise. He keeps a variety of good stock but does not raise hogs for the market. He is an energetic and enterprising business manager and has well earned his present success.

Four children have been born to Mr. Fetzer and wife: Marguerite, born November 9, 1901; Edith, June 19, 1903; Catherine, February 23, 1908; Ruth Olive, August 25, 1910. Mr. Fetzer owns stock in the Farmers Elevator Company and is a close student of modern methods of farming. In politics he is a Democrat. His wife belongs to the Methodist Church and he to the Lutheran Church. Both have many friends and have a good standing in the community.

FEUERBACH, John (deceased). - The older residents of Springfield, Ill., will remember John Feuerbach, a prominent German-American citizen, who after many years passed in agricultural pursuits, retired from active life and spent his last years living in the Capital City. Mr. Feuerbach was born in Germany in 1844, a son of Jacob and Lena Feuerbach, natives of the Fatherland, who came to the United States in early days and located near Evansville, Ind., where they spent their lives in farming. They had a family of four children, and the others beside John, were Jacob and Michael Feuerbach and Mrs. Lena Schimmelmann, now residents of Evansville.

John Feuerbach started his education in the schools of Germany, and completed it in Evansville, Ind., as soon as he was old enough beginning work on the home farm. On reaching his majority, he engaged in farming on his own account in Indiana, and in 1886, came to Sangamon County, Ill., where he commenced farming, but after two years sold his land locating in Springfield, purchased the home on South Eleventh Street, where Mrs. Feuerbach now resides. Here he was living at the time of his death, in 1896. Mrs. Feuerbach has five acres and-.the house is located at No. 1902 South Eleventh Street, the old family home. Mr. Feuerbach was a Republican in politics, and an upright, exemplary citizen.

On August 18, 1868, Mr. Feuerbach was married at Evansville, Ind., to Elizabeth Lohman, who was born in Evansville, July 1, 1852, the daughter of Peter and Elizabeth (Kauplancer) Lohman, natives of Germany, who came to America at an early date and settled near Evansville, where they followed agricultural pursuits until their death. There were six children in their family, of whom Elizabeth became the wife of Mr. Feuerbach; Mrs. Lena Spausban is living in Rockwell, Tex.; George Lohman is a resident of Springfield, and three are deceased. One of Mrs. Feuerbach's brothers, John, who is now deceased, served as a soldier in the Union army during the Civil War.

There were sixteen children in the family of Mr. and Mrs. Feuerbach, of whom seven are now living, as follows: John L., a farmer of Sangamon County; Elizabeth, who is the widow of Oscar Bowman, residing in Divernon, Ill; Lulu, who married George Cantrell, of Springfield; Henry, who is a resident of Hannibal, Mo.; Christopher, who lives at home with his mother; Frank, who is in the employ of Schnepp & Barnes, of Springfield, and Mary who married William H. Kuder, has six children, and they all reside with Mrs. Feuerbach, Mr. Kuder being the proprietor of a dairy. Mrs. Feuerbach has sixteen grandchildren.

FEUERBACHER, Frederick (deceased). - The sturdy qualities of the Germans make them desired wherever advanced civilization has taken hold, for they are industrious, intelligent and thrifty. They do not rove from place to place, but settle down and work for their posterity, founding homes and taking an interest in those matters which will insure good schools and government, The late Frederick Feuerbacher was one of the best kind of German-Americans Springfield has ever known. Born in Germany, in July, 1814, he was brought up under the fostering care of an unusually intelligent father, whose profession was that of school teaching. Neither of the parents came to America, but lived and died in Germany.

As he grew up Frederick Feuerbacher learned the cabinetmaking trade and, realizing the better opportunities offered here, came to America in 1847, first locating at Louisville, but coming to Springfield in 1848. In the Capital City he found ready employment for his skill as a cabinetmaker, and worked at his trade the rest of his life. During this time, he produced some beautiful work, which still exists as proof of his skill, that knew nothing of the cheap, machinemade articles of this generation. Mr. Feuerbacher was a Republican and a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, in the faith of which he died in 1882, honored and respected by a wide circle of friends. His marriage occurred in Germany, in 1841, when he was united with Regina Dittus, born in

Feuerbacher: Mary married John Gottschalk; Christina, wife of Jacob Baumann, deceased ; Jacob married Caroline Paul, a resident of Springfield, and they have two daughters, Emma Marie and Caroline; Magdeline; Lena, wife of William F. Schmidt, a carpenter and contractor, living with Mrs. Feuerbacher, an they have one son, Walter G., a florist in the

Feuerbacher. She is a venerable lady, having attained the advanced age of ninety-two years. The family have all been prominent in church work and are known throughout the county as reliable, substantial people. Mr. Feuerbacher's life was one of hard work and thrifty investment, and he left behind him a comfortable competence to provide for his widow in her old age and to give his children a start in life.

FIELDS, James H., a well-known citizen of Springfield, Ill, and a veteran of the Civil War, has spent most of his life in the vicinity where he now lives. He was born in Sangamon County, July 4, 1847, a son of Earl and Paulina (Southwick) Fields, the former born in Connecticut, in 1796, and the latter born in New York. The father was a drummer in the Mexican War and later located in Sangamon County. As he died when his son James H. was a small child, the latter knows little of his ancestors. Paulina Southwick's parents came to Illinois from New York at an early day, her father being Jesse Southwick, the grandfather of Major Southwick, now a prominent citizen of Springfield, and who served as Major of the One Hundred Fourteenth Illinois Infantry during the Civil War.

When nine years of age James H. Fields began working on a farm and has followed that occupation all his life. He had practically no educational advantages, as at the time he was able and ready to enter school he enlisted in the Civil War. He has lived in Sangamon County all his life except for a short time spent in the West and during his service in the army. He enlisted, in June, 1862, at Springfield, in Company A, Tenth Illinois Cavalry, under Captain Elkins, and served until June, 1863, when he was discharged from the hospital. He remained at home until December, 1863, when he reenlisted at Springfield in the Same company, and served to the end of the war. He was discharged from the marine hospital at New Orleans, La., and returned to Sangamon County, where he again engaged in farming. He participated in the Battle of Sabine River, where General Steele destroyed many wagons and threw them into the river to prevent their falling into the hands of the enemy. Mr. Fields served as orderly for General Ross in the Yazoo Pass expedition, and took part in skirmishes at Little Rock, Helena, and numerous other engagements, also participated in many foraging expeditions and had many narrow escapes. He endured countless hardships and, while on the road to Camden, Miss., spent two days under fire and for seyeral days was without food. He took part in the Camden expedition, and helped to recapture a eannon that had been taken by the enemy at Prairie Grove, Mo. Mr. Fields was one of the members of the notably brave and well-trained Western Department that accomplished so much in defense of the Union cause, and who endured so much in the way of danger and hardship without complaint. He won a very

Mr. Fields was married, in Springfield, in 1885, to Miss Katie Hayes, a native of Springfield, whose parents were prominent in Sangamon County. One child was born of this marriage, William C., now living on a farm in Kansas. Mr. Fields deals quite extensively in real estate and has met with fair success in all his enterprises. A member of one of the old families in Sangamon County, he enjoys the good-will and esteem of all who know him, and performs his duty as a citizen in as worthy a manner as he did when a soldier. He is a member of the Christian Church, and has been a Republican in politics since old enough to yote, and is also a prominent member of Ene G. eA R

FINK, Edward A. - It has often been truly said that the newspapers of any community serve in a large degree to mold public opinion, and it is, therefore, to those who have the newspapers in charge, and more especially those who write the editorials, that the public must look for the welfare of their interests. One of the enterprising and, at the same time, conservative sheets of Sangamon County, is the Pleasant Plains "Weekly Press," whose owner and editor, Hdward A. Fink, bears a high reputation in the Illinois newspaper field. Mr. Fink is a native of Pleasant Plains, born September 14, 1879, a son of George W. and Rebecca (Hayes) Fink.

George W. Fink was born in Muskingum County, Ohio, February 2, 1825, son of George and Mary (Way) Fink, the former was born in Maryland in 1796 and the latter in Loudoun County, Va. About 1824 George Fink removed to Muskingum County, Ohio, during the early days of that State, and engaged in the merchandising business, in which he was interested up to the time of his death, in 1833, as the result of an accident. After his death his widow brought her children farther West, locating in Pleasant Plains, Ill., where her death occurred in 1885, when she had reached the ripe old age of eighty-eight years. George W. Fink was reared in Ohio, and even as a youth showed - marked ability as a business man. although he was given little time to acquire educational advantages. After learning the trade of carriage-maker in Circleville, Ohio, he went to Lexington, Ky., and later to St. Louis, Mo., at both of which places he followed his chosen occupation and he subsequently located in Pleasant Plains, Ill., where he established a home, and a factory for the manufacture of carriages, buggies and vehicles of all kinds. During the thirty-five years that he followed this business he built up one of the largest trades in the State, the excellence of his workmanship, the durability of his vehicles and farm implements, and his honorable business: methods, securing for him a reputation that insured a large patronage. He also invested in farm property and finally became the owner of a farm of 333 acres near the town, a quarter-section of land being left his wife by her father at the latter's death. Although having reached the advanced age of eighty-six years, he still retains his good health and displays an active interest in Democratic politics, his services to that party having been recognized in the past by his election to a number of county offices.

On May 4, 1875, Mr. Fink was married to Miss Rebecca Hayes, daughter of J. W. Hayes, an old settler of Pleasant Plains and to them were born three children: Bertha H., who married E. L. Hurt; Edward A. and Frank C., all of whom make their homes in Pleasant Plains.

Edward A. Fink received his preliminary education in the public schools of Pleasant Plains, pursued the higher courses at Springfield, then took up the study of law for one year, but eventually deciding to enter the journalistic field, became connected with the newspaper interests of Pleasant Plains. About 1898S he started the "Weekly Press,' and has since conducted this clean, bright sheet, which is devoted to general and local news. He has succeeded in securing a large circulation and good advertising patronage. His editorials are clear and concise, and while setting forth his views on many leading subjects of the day, he never bitterly denounces those who differ with him in opinion.

In November, 1898, Mr. Fink was married to Josephine HE. Carter, a native of Sangamon County, where she was reared and educated. Her father, Robert Carter, located there at an early day, having come with his father's family from Tennessee. Mr. Fink is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America, the Elks and the Odd Fellows, and he and Mrs. Fink are highly esteemed in the community, the hospitality of the best homes being extended to them and their own home being noted for its social functions. Mr. Fink has always been active in all public enterprises, and while a member of the Village Board was instrumental in making many improvements in his native village.

FINK, Dr. Frank C., of Pleasant Plains, Tl., is rated as one of the leading medical and surgical practitioners of Sangamon County. He was born at Pleasant Plains June 25, 1880, a son of George W. Fink, a pioneer and honored citizen whose biography is given at some length in this work. He was duly graduated from the high school with the class of 1897, and in the fall of that year entered the college at Dixon, where he took a year's preparatory course in medicine. He then returned to his home and entering College, took the bachelor's degree in English, after which for two years applied himself to studies and was given the B. E. degree, finishing that course in 1899. In the fall of 1900 he entered the medical department of the Washington University, in St. ouis, Mo., where he took a four years' course and was awarded a diploma in 1904. In the summer of that year he began a post-graduate course in diseases of women at the Philadelphia Polyclinic College, later taking a post-graduate course at the Chicago Polyclinic College. His professional studies having been completed, he returned home in December, 1904, to enter the school of practice with accompanying reading and investigation. He established himself in Springfield, in an office with Dr. Langdon, soon advanced to high rank in his profession and was appointed medical examiner for several life insurance companies, for the Modern Woodmen of America, the Modern Fraternity, the American Patriots, the Home Defenders, the Knights and Ladies of Security and other beneficiary organizations. His duties both as physician and surgeon became so strenuous and so exacting that, after two years' failing health he was compelled to discontinue his practice and return home for a time. In June, 1907, he located at Waverly, Ill., and -there, as at Springfield, he soon built up a large and increasing practice. In 1909 he went to Colorado Springs, Colo., where he practiced his profession eight months, when he returned home at the request of his aged parents to look after their business interests. He then opened an office at Pleasant Plains, where his. successful experiences at Springfield and at Waverly are being repeated, and he has his full share of the professional patronage. He has never ceased to be a student and keeps abreast of the times by diligent reading and personal investigation along professional lines. He has a fine medical library and his office is well equipped with modern apparatus. He is careful in diagnosis and insures the proper action of remedies by compounding his own prescriptions.

Dr. Fink is a member of Lodge No. 700, Ancient Free & Accepted Masons, of Pleasant Plains, and of the Sangamon County Medical Society. As a physician he is known for his exceptional learning, for his painstaking care with patients, and for his success in difficult cases. Perhaps nature intended him for his work. He has a happy faculty of making and retaining friends.

FISHERKELLER, Lewis. - Owing to the many advantages offered in Springfield it has been selected by a number of men of means as their permanent home, after retiring from active life. One of those who belongs to this large and representative class in Lewis Fisherkeller, a substantial German-American citizen, residing at No. 1420 Bast Edwards Street. He was born in Baden, Germany, October 5, 1825, a son of Lewis and Mary (Angerser) Fisherkeller, natives of Germany. The father was a baker and merchant who, with his wife, rounded out a useful life in Germany. 'There were four daughters and two sons in this family, but Lewis, of this sketch, and Joseph, of Germany, are the only survivors, saddlery and harness-making trade. After completing his apprenticeship he worked at his trade in Germany before coming to America in 1850. He took passage on a sailing vessel at Strasburg, landing in New Orleans, whence he came north as far as Cincinnati. After a short stay in that city he went to Hamilton, Ohio, where he worked at harness making, but remained only two years. Following this, he worked in various cities until he arrived at St. Louis, Mo., but remained there only a short time, when he came via stage coach to Jacksonville. Until 1854 he remained in that city, then became a resident of Sangamon County, locating in Pleasant Plains, where he lived until 1900. In that year he came to Springfield and retired from the saddlery and harness-making business. While residing in Jacksonville, in 1853, her husband four daughters and two sons, five of whom survive: Henry, of Bloomington ; J. Lewis, in the employ of the Springfield City Railroad Company; Mrs. Mary Warner, of Dakota; Dena, Mrs. Hagerdon, of Idaho; Anna, wife of Matthew Young, of Springfield. There are twenty-eight grandchildren in the family. Mr. Fisherkeller is a Democrat. He belongs to Sacred Heart Parish, being a devout Roman Catholic.

FITZGERALD, John J. - The coal interests centered at Springfield are important, and have brought about an increase of wealth not obtainable in any other way. The mines in the vicinity of the city are very productive and the coal is marketed at distant points, so that the entire process affords employment to both labor and capital. One of those for many years actively identified with this branch of industrial commerce is John J. Fitzgerald, now retired He is a native of Ireland, having been born in County Limerick, March 21, 1844, a son of Patrick and Mary L. (Leonard) Fitzgerald, both of County Limerick. The father was a blacksmith, and he and his family were brought to the United States by their son John J., who sent them money to pay for their passage. They landed at New York in 1866, thence coming directly to Springfield, where the father died in 1900 and the mother in 1899.

John J. Fitzgerald received his education in Ireland, and early commenced working in his father's smithy and in other lines of industry. Upon coming to the United States, he first worked on the Lehigh Valley Railroad in Pennsylvania for a year, later going to Washington, D. C., where he was employed by the government in caring for horses and mules. In 1862, he enlisted in Company E, Eighth New Work Cavalry, under Colonel Pope, participating in the hardly contested battle of Winchester Heights, and was a picket on duty at Appomat-

27, 1865, when he came to Springfield, Ill., and soon thereafter engaged in coal mining at the old North Shaft, where he remained ten years. Later he became connected with other mines in

Union, and the Coal Miners' Union, as well as to Stephenson Post No. 30; G. A. R. In religious faith he is a Catholic, belonging to the St. Joseph's Catholic Church of Springfield. Politicaly he is a Democrat.

Mr. Fitzgerald was married in Springfield, April 22, 1870, to Catherine Ryan, daughter of Patrick and Anna Ryan, who died in Ireland, of which they were natives. Mr. and Mrs. Fitzgerald have had one daughter, Fay, wife of Jdward McCann, boiler-maker employed by the Springfield boiler works. Mr. and Mrs. McCann

Fourth Street, as well as other property yielding him a good income. He is a man who has proven his worth in both war and peace, and now is entitled to the comforts his own industry has provided for him and his excellent wife, who has borne her part in his successful enterprises,

FITZGERALD, Maurice (deceased). - It is a pleasure for the biographer to write of the life of a man whose work in any community was known and appreciated, and who had the entire confidence and esteem of his fellow townsmen. Such a man was the late Maurice Fitzgerald, of Springfield, Ill., who will be well remembered by many of the Capital City's older

Maurice Fitzgerald was but eight years of age when the entire family of three sisters and four brothers came to America and settled in New York, where he secured his early education. He came to Springfield in April, 1854, and here completed his education, one of his fellow students at night school being Robert Lincoln. He took up the trade of blacksmith as a youth, and this work he followed during most of his life, although for a short period previous to his death he was engaged in agricultural ventures. In 1880 Mr. Fitzgerald purchased a tract of farming land in Clear Lake township, half mile from Camp Butler, which he managed up to the time of his death, on September 8th of that year. The family lived on this farm about nine years. Mr. Fitzgerald was enterprising and energetic, and was always active in connection with those movements which he thought would promote the prosperity of his city. His home, which he purchased in 1856,

He was a Democrat in his political views, and served as City Councilman from 1871 to 1875, was also a member of the Pioneer Fire Company No. 1, a volunteer organization, his membership exempting him from military duty. He was a faithful member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.

On July 10, 1859, Mr. Fitzgerald was united in marriage to Hllen Flynn, the daughter of Paul and Mary (Hayes) Flynn, of County Limerick, Ireland. Mr. Flynn died in Ireland, and his daughter came to America in 1853, when she was but six years old. Mrs, Fitzgerald's mother died September 24, 1855, and was buried in Calvary Cemetery. She has a surviving brother, a retired farmer of Mt. Sterling, Ill. Five children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Fitzgerald, namely: Mary, died at the age of one year; Elizabeth, the wife of Sheriff Werner of Sangamon County; George, who is deceased; Catherine; and Richard James. The later was educated in the Catholic Schools of Springfield, and Notre Dame University, where he received a diploma June 20, 1889. He is now Deputy

FITZPATRICK, Martin, who for the past fifteen years has conducted a transfer business at Springfield, Il., was born at Hazel Green, Wis., November 6, 1852, a son of John and Margaret Fitzpatrick, both natives of Ireland. The parents came to America in 1851 and lived several years at Hazel Green, later moving to St. Louis, where Mr, Fitzpatrick died. The mother married as her second husband James Wiley, and they-lived for many years on a farm in Sangamon County. Mr. Wiley was drowned while crossing the Sangamon River on the ice, and his widow afterward moved to Nilwood, Macoupin County, where she spent the remainder of her life. By her first husband she had three daughters and one son, and by her second two daughters and one son. The only ones of the family now living are Martin; and Mrs. Sarah Clark and Mrs. Kate Windaws. both of St. Louis.

After the death of his father Martin Fitzpatrick lived for a time in St. Louis, but afterward was brought to Carlinville by John Garlic, with whom he lived for some time. He was educated in Macoupin County and in boyhood worked on a farm there. He was finally taken into the family of James Childs, of Chesterville, with whom he remained until reaching his majority, when he came to Springfield. He there learned the trade of brick mason and worked on the State House and many other public and private buildings there. He engaged in his present enterprise about 1896 and has built up a large and lucrative business. Both he

Mr. Fitzpatrick was married in Springfield December 24, 1881, to Margaret Ann Chittick, who was born at Virginia, Ill., June 9, 1862, a daughter of John and Rachel (Price) Chittick, the father a native of Tyrone, Ireland, and the mother of Laryhope, England. 'The {parents came to America in early youth and were married in Illinois, locating at Eureka, where for some time the father carried on the trade of shoemaker. Later they moved to Virginia, where the father died, when the mother went to live at Whitehall, Ill., where her death occurred. There were two sons and three daugh ters in the family, those living, besides Mrs. Fitzpatrick, being: Katie, wife of John F, Smith, of Springfield; John W. Chittick, of Springfield; William Mackey, a half-brother of Mrs. Fitzpatrick, living at Whitehall, Ill., and a half-sister, Anna, wife of Frank McGarvey, living in Missouri.

To Mr. Fitzpatrick and wife three children were born, namely: Anna, (deceased), married Arthur English; Katie, wife of James Huffman, engaged in transfer business in Springfield; and William M., also of Springfield. Mrs. Fitzpatrick owns the home occupied by the family and several other houses and lots on South Tenth Street, Springfield. The family have many friends in the city and are well regarded by all who know them.

FITZPATRICK, Patrick (deceased). - In the death of the late Patrick Fitzpatrick, Springfield, IN., lost a substantial and useful citizen. Mr. Fitzpatrick was for over fifty years identified with the business interests of the city, and by his own efforts and industry accumulated considerable property. He was well known and greatly respected, both for his public enterprise and as a private citizen, and on his taking away was deeply mourned by many friends. Mr. Fitzpatrick was born in Carlinstown, County Meath, Ireland, the third child of Thomas and Mary (Blythe) Fitzpatrick, both of whom died in Ireland. The father was a cattle dealer in County Meath and died about 1862, aged about seventy-five years. He and his wife had eight children, seven of whom reached maturity and six of these came to the United States. Of these children, Stephen, a school teacher, died in County Meath, Ireland; Bridget, Mrs. Thaddeus Manning, died in Springfield, Patrick; Philip, was married in Philadelphia, to Miss Rose Moguinness, and died in Springfield ; Margaret, born in 18382,. came to the United States at the age of twenty-two years, landing in Philadelphia, in 1856 was married in Springfield (whither she came in 1855), by the Rev. Frank MelIlhearn, at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, to Daniel Kelly, a native of Dungarvan, County Waterford, Ireland, Mr. Kelly dying on February 16, 1892; Hugh, died young; Julia, married Edward Farrell, a native of Navan, County Meath, Ireland, who

As a boy Patrick Fitzpatrick had few educational advantages, attending school only at odd times until he was seventeen years of age, when he left his native country, crossing to England. There he worked for two years on the docks at Liverpool, when he sailed for what he believed to be the "Land of Promise." He had but little money when he landed at New York City, but made his way to Williamsburg, N. Y., where he was employed by a firm in manufacturing soap and candles, remaining two and a half years in that city, during which time his first marriage took place. He was married at the Church of SS. Peter and Paul, Brooklyn, by Rey. Sylvester Malone, to Mary Hopkins, a native of Tuam, County Galway, Ireland. They had no children.

Leaving Williamsburg, Mr. Fitzpatrick went to Philadelphia, where for three years he was employed in the street-car stables. He then located in Springfield, Ill., arriving in that city in May, 1855, and soon after began working for Post Brothers, grain dealers. He was later employed in the hardware store of B. L. Fox, and still later in the general store of John Williams & Company, remaining with the latter firm eighteen years and leaving to go into business for himself.

'Mrs. Fitzpatrick died May 6, 1891, and Mr. Fitzpatrick married (second) October 4, 1892, Miss Margaret A. Walsh, the marriage taking place at the Church of tLe Immaculate Conception in Yonkers, N. Y., the ceremony being performed by Rey. Charles R. Corley. One child was born of this second marriage - Florence Marie. The first Mrs. Fitzpatrick was a devout member of St. Agnes Roman Catholic Church, of which Mr. Fitzpatrick was trustee for eighteen years.

Mr. Fitzpatrick was engaged fifteen years in the grocery business on his own account, at the corner of Spring and Cook Streets, but retired from active business in 1900. He purchased a lot at 113 West Cook Street on which he erected a residence in 1856. His death occurred February 11, 1908, at eighty-one years of age. A man of fine physique and of high mental ability, he was well fitted for business life, being naturally energetic and possessed of excellent health. He was the founder of his own fortune, having made his own way in life from the age of seventeen years, and by availing himself of his opportunities, became the owner of considerable real estate.

FLATT, Charles Samuel. - When an institution an obtain the services of a reliable man for a responsible position, it is not likely to dispense with him unless forced to do so because of his own desire. The fact that Charles Samuel Flatt has been chief engineer of the St. Nicholas Hotel for the past twenty years, speaks well for both him and the concern employing him. Mr. 'Flatt was born in Westfield, Union County, N.

X., in October, 1857, a son of John A. Flatt, born in Ipswich, Deconshire, England, about 1821, and grandson of Samuel Flatt, a farmer. John A. Flatt had no educational advantages, but was a keen, shrewd man, who, recognizing the better opportunities offered in the United States, came here with his wife and the two children then born to them. They landed in New York about 1852, locating on a farm, but came to Jersey County, Ill., in 1863, where the father continued farming, until his death in 1891. His wife died at the age of seventy-seven years. In religious faith, they were Baptists. The children born to them were: Mary, deceased; James, deceased; George of Springfield; Charles 8.; John A. of Talula, IN., married Jennie Rice, and Lillie, married Richard Ryan of Jersey County.

Charles Samuel Flatt was seven years old when his parents located in Jersey County, Ill., and there he attended school until fifteen years of age. A natural mechanic, his boyish fingers were constantly at work fashioning appliances for use on the farm. When he was fifteen, he left home, and worked among the farmers in his native county until his marriage, when he moved to the southern part of Sangamon County, to farm until his engagement with John McCreary, proprietor of the St. Nicholas Hotel, as superintendent of his dairy farm, but in 1891, came to Springfield to assume the duties of chief engineer of the hotel.

On August 13, 1880, Mr. Flatt was married to Miss Mary Francis Boyant of Jersey County, Ill., daughter of Aaron and Ellin (Bartlett) Boyant. Mrs. Flatt died June 24, 1909, after a long illness. A consistent member. of the West Side Christian Church, in his funeral sermon her pastor referred touchingly to her deep Christianity. He declared in substance that, although she had been shut in her own home for years, she practiced true Christianity and exerted a powerful influence through her patience and tenderness. There were four children born to her and her husband: Charles Royal, on a ranch in South Dakota, married Pearl Browning; Carlton G., of Springfield; Truman, also of Springfield, and Jessie B. of Nashville, Tenn. Mr. Flatt also belongs to the same church as his wife. A strong Republican, he served one term on the Board of Education, and has been a member of the County Central

FLEMING, Matthew (deceased). - Ireland sends many of its best sons to American, where they develop into our best citizens under more fayorable conditions than they are given in their native land. Sangamon County has always welcomed this class realizing how much the country owes to the brilliant minds and keen wits of the sons of the Emerald Isle. One of the men who ably represented all that is best in hig

Growing up in his native land, Matthew Fleming attended the local school and worked for his father until 1857, when he came to America, landing in New York, from there going to Vermont, where he spent six years farming. He then came to Springfield, Ill., where he lived for a few months when he removed to Chatham and there spent a year farming. Then returning to Springfield, he spent a year in the city, when he again engaged in farming in Clear Lake Township. In 1869, he located at Riverton and there worked in the Howlett distillery for a number of years. His death occurred July 16, 1894, his family losing a beloved member and the community a reliable citizen. He was a consistent member of the St. James Catholic Church, and in politics a Democrat.

On January 29, 1854, Mr. Fleming was married to Johanna O'Shaughnessy, born in County Carlo, W. Ireland, in December, 1828, a daughter of Patrick O'Shaughnessy, a native of Ireland who came to America, joining his sons at Springfield, who had come before him but died soon after his arrival. His wife died before the family came to America. There were three sons and two daughters in the family, two of the sons remaining in Ireland. Those surviving are, John; Mrs. Margaret Daley and Mrs. Fleming. Mr. and Mrs. Fleming became the parents of ten children, eight now living: Bridget, wife of William Smith, Superintendent of mines at Springfield; Patrick, janitor of the Franklin Life building, Springfield; Margaret, wife of Leon Bosquet, a carriage maker of St. Louis; William, a blacksmith, died November 6, 1905; James, living in Springfield, is a mine manager; Elizabeth married Millard Mitchell, a master mechanic of a large brewery in Brooklyn, and her twin, Marie, wife of William Gragg, a manufacturer of ladies' garments at Decatur; Johanna, wife of Michael Layden, a farmer of Riverton; Lawrence, with the Illinois Hotel Company, Springfield. There are thirtyeight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren in the family. Mrs. Fleming owns her comfortable home in Riverton, in addition to other property. She is a pleasant lady, devout in her religious views, and devoted to her large family. She was a worthy helpmate for her husband, always encouraging him and supporting him in his endeavors to lay aside something that would provide for them in their old age.

FLETCHER, Benjamin F., a retired farmer of Springfield, Ill., is a veteran of the Civil War and belongs to one of the pioneer families of Sangamon County, being of the third generation of Fletchers who have lived there. He was born in Ball Township, Sangamon County, December 13, 1839, and is of Scotch-Irish ancestry through his grandfather, John Fletcher, who was born in Rockbridge County, Va., in 1774, and married Elizabeth McElvaine. He and Francis Brown bronght their families to Sangamon County, Ill., in 1830. Mr. Fletcher entered eighty acres of land in what is now Ball Township, but died a few months later, his widow surviving him twenty-eight years and dying in 1858. He had come to the new home in the hope of bettering his financial condition. He and his wife were buried side by side in the West Graveyard.

Job Fletcher, son of John Fletcher, was born in Virginia in 1801, and served as Captain of a military company in Kentucky, where he married Frances Brown, who was of German lineage, and following farming in that State until he came with other members of the family to Sangamon County. He opened up a farm on Panther Creek and was much interested in the progress and improvement of the community until his death, in 1884. His wife died in 1882, in her eightieth year. He had divided 320 acres of land among his children and was known as one of the successful and practical farmers of the neighborhood. He was a man of large frame, six feet in height, but thin and wiry, and was well able to cope with pioneer conditions, making a good home for his wife and children. There were eight children in the family: Elizabeth, who died after her marriage; William and Frances, who died in childhood; John S., died at the age of twenty-three years; Preston lives in Montgomery County, Ill.; Paulina, widow of Francis E. Dodds, of Springfield; Benjamin F.; Virginia, wife of C. G. Brown, of Divernon, Ill. All were born upon the home farm adjoining that of R. H. Easley, except Elizabeth, and all attended the early subscription schools of their neighborhood, remaining at home until their marriages except those who died young. The father of this family was a large landholder and became highly respected by all who knew him. He was a public-spirited and useful citizen and in religious faith was a Presbyterian, contributing generously to the support of the church and assisting in organizing Pleasant Grove Church in an early day, and later helped organize one at Divernon, where two of his daughters were then residing. His interest was deeply centered in his family and he put forth every effort to provide for the future of his children and for their comfort while they lived under his roof,

Benjamin F. Fletcher attended the subscription schools and later the public schools, and grew to manhood on the home farm. In August, 1862, he enlisted in Company B, One Hundred Fourteenth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and took part in the Battle of Jackson, Miss.; the Siege of Vicksburg and Guntown, and at the latter place was captured and held prisoner from June, 1864, until April 28, 1865, spending some time in Andersonville Prison. After the fall of Atlanta he was transferred to Millen, but later was returned to Andersonville, where he remained until about the close of the war. He had been wounded in the head at Vicksburg, but his injury was without serious results. In May, 1865, at Camp Butler, Ill., he was honorably discharged from service.

At the close of the war Mr. Fletcher returned home and in 1867 was married to Miss Mary Drennan, who was born in Ball Township, in 1847, and they became parents of four children, all born on the old home farm in Ball Township. One died in infancy and the others are: Cyrus O., on the home farm; Myra F., wife of Dr. J. T. Woodward; Dr. F. D., a graduate of Rush Medical College, now practicing his profession at Chatham, Ill. Mrs. Woodward graduated from Lincoln University and Cyrus took a three-year course at that institution.

Upon the death of his father Benjamin F. Fletcher took charge of the old home place and received as his share of the estate 200 acres of land. He purchased the interest of his brother and sister, and has added to his original holdings from time to time, so that he now owns 500 acres of well improved land. He made many improvements on the farm and made his: home there until November, 1901, when he purchased a handsome residence at 326 West Jackson Street, Springfield. He is a stockholder in the Bank of Auburn, of which he was one of the organizers and for many years Vice President. He served as a member of the Board of Supervisors from Ball Township and also held various other offices in the township. In politics he has always been a Republican, and though never an office seeker, has done his duty when called upon for public service. He became a member of the Masonic Order in 1865, at Auburn, Ill.; became a charter member of Chatham Lodge, and now belongs to Lodge No. 4, Springfield. He also belongs ito Stephenson Post No. 30 G. A. R., and to Abraham Lincoln Regiment of Union Veterans. For most of his life he has belonged to the Cumberland Presbyterian Church and he and his wife have been active in church and Sunday School work. He has always tried to do all he could to help in the uplifting of his fellow-men, and by the example of a noble life has given help and inspiration to many. He has won the confidence and esteem of all who have been associated with him, and now, retired from active life, surrounded by comforts and friends is enjoying a well-earned rest.

FLETCHER, Francis D., M. D., a prominent physician located in the village of Auburn, Ill., is well known in that vicinity, where his entire life has been spent, with the exception of a few years spent at college. He belongs to a family that has been well known in Sangamon County since 1830, when his great-grandfather, John Fletcher, settled on a farm in Ball Township. Dr. Fletcher is a son of Benjamin F. and Mary

(Drennan) Fletcher, natives of Ball Township. The family history is given further in the sketch of B. F. Fletcher, appearing in a previous section of this work.

Dr. Fletcher is a native of Ball Township, born March 7, 1879, and was reared on his father's farm, attending the district school until he was sixteen years of age, when he entered Lincoln University, taking a three-year course in literature. In 1898 he entered Indiana Medical College at Indianapolis, where he spent one year, in 1899, he entered Rush Medical College at Chicago, graduating with the class of 1902, and in the fall of that year engaged in practice at Chatham. He was well fitted for his work and soon built up a gratifying practice. He was already known to mosi of his patients and had their confidence and respect. He has a well-equipped office and has won a good standing in the community,

October 24, 1904, Dr. Fletcher married Leona A. Nuckolls, born in Auburn, Ill., daughter of J. T. and Martha Nuckolls. Mr. Nuckolls is a member of a pioneer family in Sangamon County and formerly carried on farming, but is now a retired and honored citizen of Auburn. Dr Fletcher is a member of Masonic Lodge No 523, of Chatham, also of the M. W. A., and his wife is a member of the O. E. S. He casts his ballot with the Republican party and takes a commendable interest in public affairs.

FLETCHER, Preston B., one of the oldestnative-born residents of Sangamon County, I1., now retired from active life, has been a business man of keen judgment and energy. He was born March 4, 1834, a son of Job and Frances (Brown) Fletcher, the former a native of the Shenandoah Valley, Va. The parents were married in Kentucky, to which State the father was taken at the age of six years, and they lived on a farm there until 1830, then moved to Ball Township, Sangamon County, and located on the farm where Job Fletcher died in 1883, his wife having died in the same Job was a son of John Fletcher, a native of Virginia, who settled in Sangamon County in 1830 and died there the same year. The father of Frances Brown was also a native of Virginia, and died in Macoupin County, Il., in October, 1834, at the age of seventy-five years, his widow passing away eight years later at the age of eighty-six. Job Fletcher, the father of Preston B., was one of the historic characters of Sangamon, having served in five sessions of the General Assembly - two in the House and three in the Senate, in the latter being one of the celebrated "Long Nine" with Abraham Lincoln in 1837, which secured the removal of the State Capital from Vandalia to Springfield.

Preston B. Fletcher received his education in the public schools of Ball .Township, lived at home until he was twenty-one years old, and worked hard on his father's farm. He then moved to land on which the town of Divernon now stands, living there from 1855 until 1868, and in the latter year moved to Bates County, Mo., where he was engaged for twenty years in farming and dealing in stock. In September, 1888, he returned to Divernon Township, and in 1892 moved to Montgomery County, where he carried on farming until 1908, then again re turned to Divernon Township and lives with his daughter, Mrs. Lizzie Elswick. She owns 120 acres of land in Section 16, Divernon Township.

Mr. Fletcher was married (first) in Sangamon County, in 1855, to Sarah Wright, a native of the county. born in 1831 and died in Kansas City, Mo., in 1888. Seven children were born of this union: Job, Benjamin, Lyda, Stuart and Albert, deceased; Lizzie, born in Sangamon County, October 23, 1856, was married, September 7, 1877, to John R. Elswick, of Iowa, who died May 19, 1897; Lloyd F., born in Bates County, Mo., July 22, 1870, married Pearl Elger, in Kansas, and they now live in Kansas City, Mo. John R. and Lizzie (Fletcher) Elswick had children as follows: Clifford, born August 15, 1878, in Bates County, Mo., lives on the farm with his mother, married, in April, 1902, Minta Commons, of Iowa, and they have one child, Vernon E., born in Sangamon County, November 13, 1908; Lulu, born March 3, 1880, in Bates County, married Edgar Whitmarsh of Wiscoinsin, and they now live in the State of Washington, and have one child, Mildred, born in Washington, in 1907; Nellie, born January 20, 1883, in Barry County, Mo., married Louis Plamondon, a native of Washington, in August, 1902, and they had one child, deceased.

Mr. Fletcher was married (second) March 16, 1892, to Comfort Lyman (nee Mitchell), whose father was a miller in Springfield, having come to Sangamon County in 184, but eventually returned to Ohio, where he died. Mrs. Fletcher died in Montgomery County, October 20, 1908, having borne no children. Mr. Fletcher has two great-grandchildren.

There are but three persons living in the community who were residing in Sangamon County at the time Mr. Fletcher was born. He attended the first State Fair in 1853 and the next year took a prize for the best yoke of oxen exhibited. He took premiums for hogs in other years, and had four that averaged 840 pounds in weight at the Fair at Jacksonville in 1859. He also had hogs that took premiums at the Fair held in St. Louis in 1861. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church and, in political views, has been a Republican since the organization of that party. His first presidential vote was cast for Fillmore and later he voted for Abraham Lincoln. The Fletcher family have always been prominent in forwarding every movement calculated to be of benefit to the community and one respected wherever its members have resided.

Coal Company at Thayer, Ill., is a veteran of the Civil War and is highly esteemed in his community. He was born near Clarksville, Tenn., December 2, 1840, son of John H. and Alice (Bennyworth) Fletcher, the former of Scotch descent and the latter a native of Lincolnshire, England. The Fletcher family emigrated to America and settled in what was known as Scotch Neck, N. C., and the grandfather of Ruffin D. Fletcher married a Miss

Winnifred Hunter, afterwards bringing his family to Montgomery County, Tenn., locating on the farm which was the home of his son John H. and the birthplace of the subject of this sketch. In the spring of 1851, the Fletcher family left Tennessee and came to Illinois, locating at Fayette, Greene County, where John Fletcher purchased a farm, which he sold in 1855, and moved to Macoupin County, where his death occurred in 1878. His widow survived him many years, dying in 1906, at the age of eighty-four years. Both were buried in what is called Charity Churchyard, six miles west of Carlinville. Mr. Fletcher was born in 1802, and his wife was a daughter of Joseph Bennyworth, born near Boston, Lincolnshire, England, who emigrated to the United States about 1831. They located at Philadelphia, spent about one year at that city, then moved west to Chesterfield, Ill. While on the road from Alton to Chesterfield, Mrs. Bennyworth was taken with cholera and died, and her remains are buried at Chesterfield. Mr. Bennyworth and the rest of the family located on a farm near Chesterfield but he survived only a short time after the death of his wife, and after his death, his daughter Alice was left in charge of the family as their housekeeper, there being two of her brothers at home and one in Philadelphia.

Nine children were born to John H. Fletcher and wife, of whom eight reached maturity and one, Johnnie, died at the age of four years. The oldest child was Ruffin D., and the others were: Reuben Ross, born in Tennessee, served in Company F, One Hundred Twenty-second Illinois Volunteer Infantry. and fell in the Battle of Parker's Cross Roads, Tenn., December 31, 1862, was buried on the battle field, in 1866, removed to the National Cemetery at Corinth, Miss.. his grave being No. 2043, and on Decoration Day in 1908 his brother Ruffin decorated his grave; Narcissa married Jesse Graham and both are deceased. having had three children, - Lula, Reuben and Fanny; Sarah W., married Jesse Rhoades, who served for many years as County Clerk of Jasper County, Mo., and lived at Carthage, dying in office, had twelve children, four of whom now survive, and his widow still resides at Carthage; Choron is married the second time, has twelve children, and resides on a farm in Mason County, Il.; Alice, wife of John Corder, a farmer near Nilwood, Ill., and they have seven children; Mary, widow of George R. Moore, her husband having died in January, 1910, and she now resides on the old home near Centralia, having had six children; Johnnie B., above named; Martha, born in 1863, married Samuel McPherson, a farmer near Wichita, Kan. The father and mother of these children were both of the Baptist faith and active workers in the cause. In early life, he was a Whig and later became a Democrat, and while strong in his beliefs, yet accorded others the right to their own opinions and was liberal in his benefactions, never turning from his door an applicant for help, being most kind and sympathetic by nature. He united with the Baptist church at the age of twelve years and always held his relations with that denomination, being loved and honored for his upright life. He served as Justice of the Peace and his decisions were always just and fair, for he believed the laws were founded on justice to all.

Ruffin D. Fletcher was reared in his native place to the age of twelve years, and there be: gan his education. His father was his first teacher and school was held in a log cabin. The boy was often chastised by the father for his pranks in school, being active and mischievous, but his mind was as active as his body and he always kept a good standing in his class. In 1852, he accompanied his parents and their other children to Fayette, Ill., three years later went with them to Nilwood, and after spending a few years on his father's farm there, became clerk in a store, which position he held until 1862, enlisting July 15th of that year in Company F, One Hundred Twenty-second Illinois Volunteer Infantry, for three years, the company being organized at Camp Palmer, Carlinville. In September of that year, the regiment was sent to Trenton, Tenn., and in December, they participated in the battle at Park er's Cross Roads, where Mr. Fletcher's brother was killed. July 14, 1864, they participated in the Battle of Tupelo, Miss. He served as clerk to Post Quartermaster of the Freedman's Bureau, at Cairo, Il. Mr. Fletcher was mustered out at Mobile and was honorably discharged at Camp Butler, Ill., July 15, 1865, having spent three years in faithful service. While he was a native of Tennessee his complete sympathy was with the Union cause.

At the close of the war, Mr. Fletcher began working for the Chicago & Alton Railroad Company as brakeman, studied telegraphy and continued in the employ of the road at Mason

City and Streator, as operator and ticket agent. June 15, 1873, he entered the employ of the company with which he is now connected, at their Streator plant, as shipping clerk and telegraph operator. In March, 1890, he became General Manager of the River Bank Coal Company, at Streator, resigning three months later to accept the position of Superintendent of the Chicago, Wilmington & Vermilion Coal Company, at Streator. In 1900, the latter company bought mining lands in the southern part of Sangamon County and Mr. Fletcher was sent to what is now Thayer and opened up mines at that place. He platted the town, got the mines into running order, built eighty-six houses and a twenty-six room hotel. He also erected a large store building and a handsome residence for himself, locating permanently in the town July 17, 1900. He has been one of the most successful superintendent of central Tllinois and is the second oldest employe of the company, the oldest being A. L. Sweet, its President, who has been with it since its organization, about 1867. Mr. Fletcher and his secretary, R. H. Hayes, were the original settlers of the village of Thayer, and Mr. Fletcher has made it possible for the miners to own the homes they occupy, only two residents of the town being renters.

Mr. Fletcher was married January 12, 1872, to Miss Rachel S. Proctor, born July 5, 1855, on a farm near New Berlin but in Morgan County, Ill., a daughter of Richard and Rachel (Harris) Proctor, natives also of Eastern Tennessee. The Proctors moved to Tennessee from South Carolina and they also were loyal to their country's flag at the time of the Civil War. Mr. Proctor came to Illinois in 1846. He was a stanch member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and strong in his convictions. No resident of Morgan County was more highly honored for his many good qualities. He had a limited education but became well-to-do, having great business ability. He died at the age of eightyeight years, his mother having lived to the age of one hundred and four years. Mr. and Mrs. Fletcher became parents of two children, Edna M., at home, a clerk in her father's office, was born May 4, 1873, was graduated from Streator High School with a standing of 100 per cent in mathematics and has a business education, and Ralph P., born January 12, 1877, died April 11, 1889.

Mr. Fletcher has for many years been a member of the Masonic Order, which he joined in July, 1867, and he now belongs to Virden Lodge No. 161, A. F. and A. M., to Auburn Chapter No, 92, R. A. M., and to Elwood Commandry No. 6 of Springfield. His wife is a useful member of the Presbyterian Church. He is one of the successful self-made men of central Illinois, and at the age of seventy years, is in splendid health, being of a long-lived race through both his mother and father. He is pleasant and cheerful of manner and readily makes and retains friends. About 450 men are in his employ, and the mines have a capacity of 2400 tons of coal each day.

In 1892, Mr. Fletcher made a visit to his birthplace and engaged an artist to take pictures of the scenes of his boyhood. Though the old home was in the possession of strangers, he visited at the home of an uncle, Drew S.

left in 1852, and Saw the cabin in which he was born, built about 1800. He has made several other trips to this and other places, and greatly enjoys this form of recreation. In politics he is a Republican.

FLEURY, Frank, M. D. (deceased), who had been identified with various business enterprises in Springfield, Ill., and had held various offices of public honor and trust in the city, located there June 3, 1865, and established himself in a drug business, which he conducted some years. He served as City Clerk from 1868 to 1872 and served two years as Alderman of the Fifth Ward. Dr. Fleury was born in Meadville, Pa., September 28, 1841, son of Jacob and Margaret (Hamilton) Fleury, also natives of Pennsylvania. At the age of twelve years Frank Fleury left Meadville and entered a drug store in Erie, Pa. In 1859 he came to Alton, Ill., later moved to Bloomington, and conducted a drug store there from 1862 to 1865. He received his medical training and practiced medicine in Springfield, Ill. He served from 1890 until 1899 as Secretary of the State Board of Pharmacy, and during 1880-81 was Secretary of the Illinois Pharmaceutical Association.

In 1881 Dr. Fleury began the manufacture of the "Wa-Hoo Tonic,' and won a wide reputation for this medicine, which met with a large sale. It was handled for him by jobbers and he reaped good results in the way of profits. He was engaged in the active practice of his profession until shortly before his death. He was well known in business and professional circles and had been successful in various lines of business. He had received thirty-two degrees in the Masonic Order, being affiliated with the Chapter, Council and Shrine, and was also a member of the Modern Woodmen of America.

Dr. Fleury was married, June 25, 1863, to Miss Annie M. Herndon, of Springfield, and they became parents of one daughter, A. May, now Mrs. McPherson, wife of Augustus W. McPherson, of Springfield. The family attend the Episcopal Church. Dr. Fleury died August 28, 1910, and is buried in Oak Ridge Cemetery, Springfield.

FLOYD, Isaac (deceased), an industrious farmer and well-known citizen of Pawnee Township, Sangamon County, Ill., located on the farm now occupied by his widow, about 1874, and there spent the remainder of his life. In his passing away his loss was keenly felt in many circles, as he was a man of high principle and good habits, a true Christian, and always ready to befriend those in need or distress. He was a devout member of the Roman Catholic Church, and always faithful to its teachings, bringing his religion into his daily life. Mr. Floyd was born in County Tipperary, Ireland, May 5, 1838, a son of Michael and Eliza (Odell) Floyd, both natives of Ireland, the former born in County Tipperary in 1801, and the latter in the city of Limerick in 1803. The father held the office of County Surveyor in his native country. In 1835 he brought his family to America and for thirteen years lived in New York City, then moving to Concord, Morgan County, Il.

and after leaving school he worked on a farm. He was of a quiet disposition and devoted to his home and family, never affiiliated with any fraternal organizations, but much interested in church work. He was a Democrat in political principle, but in local affairs voted for the man rather than the party, being active in the cause of progress and education in his community. He served some time as School Director of his district. He was an energetic and successful farmer and became owner of an excellent farm in Section 20, Pawnee Township.

The marriage of Mr. Floyd occurred at Jacksonville, Ill., in 1868, when he was united with Sarah Kerr, born January 18, 1852, a daughter of John and Marian (Stuart) Kerr, the former born in County Down, Ireland, and the latter, a native of Edinburgh, Scotland, and related to the famous Queen Mary Stuart. Mr. Floyd and his wife had six children, one of whom died in infancy. The others are: Lillian B., born in Morgan County, September 22, 1872, became a successful school teacher, and was married, April 5, 1892, to Otis D. Shaw; Eugene, born August 6, 1876, is a farmer living near Harvel, Montgomery County, married Minnie Leonard March 6, 1905, and they have two children - Aileen and Glenn; Gilbert Alexander, born September 30, 1880, in Sangamon County, married Agnes Gallon and is a farmer by occupation; Charles E., born in Sangamon County, February 10, 1882, for many years held a good position with a wholesale house, married Jennie Howard, November 25, 1906, in Christian County, and they had one child, Wanita Jaunita - his wife having died he returned to farming; Pearl Aileen, born in Sangamon County, August 12, 1886, was for two years a pupil in Ursuline Convent in Springfield, and March 2, 1910, married Benjamin H. Wagehoft, and they now reside in Montgomery County. Mrs. Floyd has lived in her present home for thirty-five years and is now the owner of the home farm. She has been a devoted wife and mother and is regarded with great respect and love by all her children. Mr. Floyd died May 9, 1909, and rests in Divernon Cemetery.

FOLEY, Enoch, an enterprising business man of Hliopolis, Ill., conducts a grist mill at that village and has a comfortable home and a farm there. He is a native of Bath County, Ky.. born April 30, 1838, son of John and Hulda Foley, both natives of Virginia. The father was a farmer and moved to Kentucky at an early day, settling in Bath County, where he carried on farming until his death, at the age of eighty-four years, his wife having died some time previous. There were three children in the family, all deceased except Enoch, who was the youngest.

The boyhood of Enoch Foley was spent on a farm and he was educated in his native county. Upon reaching manhood he began farming on his own account, secured land and raised wheat and tobacco. In 1866 he moved to Rockville,

Ind., and worked in a woolen mill and carried on farming in that locality. He remained there five years, then moved to Harrison County, Key, where for sixteen years he carried on farming, and at the end of that period settled on a farm in Coles County, Ill., where he lived ten years. From there he moved to Lewis County, Mo., and operated a farm for five years. In 1900 he came to Llliopolis, and for some time conducted a dairy, but now devotes most of his attention to his mill. He is energetic and prosperous, and has the respect and confidence of the community.

Mr. Foley enlisted in 1862, from Mt. Sterling, Ky., in Company B, Fourteenth Kentucky Cav alry, and served twelve months, then worked a year for the Government, after which he reenlisted in Company C, Fifty-third Mounted Infantry, being Commissary Sergeant. He served creditably and was mustered out at Louisville, Ky., September 15, 1865, having taken part in many battles and minor skirmishes. He is a member of Morgan Post No. 208, G. A. R., of Illiopolis.

Mr. Foley was married in Kentucky, November 5, 1857, to Eliza Ingram, born in Kentucky, of which State her parents were also natives. Mr. Ingram was killed in the Civil War and his widow died in Kentucky. Fourteen children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Foley, of whom the following survive: Thomas; James, living im Sullivan, Ill.; Philip, of St. Louis; William 1s in business in the Philippine Islands; John, of Kewanee, Ill.; Joseph, of Lewiston, Mo.; Mary, wife of Frank Digbee, of Oakland, Ill.; Harriet, wife of Chink Martin, lives near Redman, Il. ; Josephine, wife of Frank Jacobs, of Kewanee; Maude, wife of Charles Huff, living at Taylorville, Ill. Mr. Foley has thirty grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He cast his first Presidential yote for Abraham Lincoln and has always been a Republican in political views. He belongs to the Christian Church. He has a good trade and enjoys the confidence and esteem of his community.

FOLEY, John, who has for nearly thirty years lived in his present comfortable home on West Elliott Avenue, Springfield, is now living retired from business life. He is a representative of the best type of Irish-American citizen and has the respect of those who know him. He was born in County Waterford, Ireland, in 1844, and lived in his native country until he finished his education. He is a son of William and Margaret (McGrath) Foley, also natives of Ireland, who spent their entire lives there, and was one of six children, four sons and two daughters. Besides John there are two other sons now living, Thomas, of Brooklyn, N. Y., and Jerry, still in Ireland.

At the age of sixteen years John Foley emigrated to the United States. He landed in New York and spent seventeen years at Yonkers, that State. He then came to Sangamon County, located in Springfield in 1876, and for some six years was employed in Lamb's foundry. He spent several years in farming, but for some time past has been retired. He belongs to St. Joseph's Parish Roman Catholic Church and is active in its cause. In politics he is a Democrat.

blacksmith and spent his entire life in Ireland, and he and his wife had three sons and three daughters, all still surviving: Maurice and John live in Ireland; Edward Powers, of East St, Louis, Il.; Mrs. Grace McGraw, of New York; Mrs. Margaret Rinar, of Ireland; Mrs. Foley. To Mr, Foley and wife five daughters and two sons were born, all living: William; Mary, of Los Angeles, Cal.; John, living in the West; Catherine, wife of John Barr, of Springfield; Margaret, wife of Abe Adams, of Oakland, Cal. ; Alice, wife of William Fisher, also of Oakland; and Grace, of Oakland. There are three grandchildren in the family.

FORD, Edward - The English contingent in Springfield, while not so large as in some other cities, has produced some of the best business men of Sangamon County. A notable example of this class is Edward Ford, a native of America, but born of an English father. Mr. Ford was born in Ducktown, Tenn., February 23, 1864, a son of Thomas and Catherine Ford, natives of Cornwall, England, and Ireland, respectively. The father was a worker in coal, lead and silver mines in his native land, but believing that better opportunities were afforded in this country, came to America, and for twenty years prospected in California and Colorado. Finally, in 1869, he came to Springfield, where he still carried on his mining operations and conducted a boarding house. He was one of the most solid and reliable men in his line of business, and when he died, in 1898, the community mourned his loss. His wife passed away two years before him. Thomas Ford was a member of the A. O. U. W. While a Democrat in political belief, he never aspired to office, and was a man of a retiring disposition. Liberal in religious views, he gave to others the freedom of thought and action he asked for himself. Six children were born to him and his wife, four sons and two daughters, but one of the sons is now deceased,

Edward Ford attended the Converse School in Springfield until he was sixteen years old, when he left to work in a coal mine. He also farmed and did teaming, until he was able, in 1886, to start into business for himself. Since then he has been engaged in the same line and has been very successful in what he has undertaken. For four years prior to his death Thomas Ford was a partner, with his son in the present enterprise.

Mayo, Ireland, daughter of Patrick Brennan, who is deceased, but whose widow survives him and resides in Wisconsin. Mr. and Mrs. Ford have had nine children, seven of whom survive: May, wife of William Grehn, of Springfield, one child, Eddie; Annie, Nettie and Edward H., at home; Thomas, with the Illinois Watch Co.; Harry and George, at home. Mr. Ford is a Republican with regard to national matters, but locally is an Independent. Like his father, he has never desired office. Fraternally he is a member of the American Order of Eagles and the Original Order of Owls. He is liberal in his religious views, and is connected with no religious denomination. He is an excellent business man, whose honesty and integrity have won the confidence of his associates.

profession is selected for the child, and he is carefully taught every detail of it, rising from one position to another as his progress warrants. For this reason, those thus taught are eagerly welcomed in this country and some of the most responsible positions are held by just such men. One of the best representatives of the good, solid English training is Thomas Forster, foreman of the Leland Hotel farm, who had this property in charge for seventeen years. He was born in Cheshire, England, November

18, 1858, a son of William and Elizabeth Forster, natives of England, as were their parents. The father was a farmer and brought up his son Thomas in the same line of work. At the Same time the lad was attending the National school of England and becoming well versed in the rudiments of an education.