Sangamon County, Illinois - The whole text, 1912 (part 33 of 46)

The first marriage of Mr. Powell occurred in Effingham County, March 14, 1859, to Anna E. Doaty, who was born in 1848 and died April 27, 1872, having had nine children, of whom three survive: Sarah A., married Charles Engert; was born October 7, 1861, three children, - ugene, Walter and Lagora; Mary A. J. Engert, born December 27, 1859; and Crabell, born December 21, 1865; married L. M. Elliott. On August 12, 1872, Mr. Powell was again married in Effingham County, to Ellen (Leffler ) Anspaugh, widow of Solomon Anspaugh, to whom she had been married in 1862. They had three children before the death of Mr. Anspaugh in 1869, namely: Mary, who married Charles Newbern and they have twelve children; Emma J., who married John Burns and they have two children; and Albert L., who married Clara Jackson, and they have four children. Mr. and Mrs. Powell became the parents of the following children: Lillie M., deceased, born July 16, 1873; Edward T., born December 20, 1874, married Ada Hale; John C., born October 28, 1876, married Stella Renfrow ; Charles E., born December 31, 1878, married Sallie Younger; Thomas B., born February 10, 1881, married Mamie Tipsword; Lola, born November 24, 1882, twin of William, married Isaiah Tipsword, while William married Hattie Hustead; Cleveland, born June 1, 1885; George, born April 16, 1887, and Bennie twin, of George, died. Mrs. Powell has forty grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Mr. and Mrs. Powell and family are very prominent in their community. Having lived in Springfield and its vicinity for so many years, they were, of course, acquainted with Abraham Lincoln. One of Mr. Powell's most pleasant memories of early days is of a footrace he ran with Mr. Lincoln, the venerable Peter Cartwright acting as judge upon that occasion. The Powell family took an active part in pioneer affairs, Seymour Powell serving in the Black Hawk War under Mr. Lincoln, and being mustered out at Alton, Ill. Mrs. Powell's father, Solomon Leffler, gave up his life in the Union cause, dying while in service during the Civil War. Mr. Powell is also proud of the fact that his father was employed in the construction of the State House, for he likes to think that he and his have borne their part in making improvements in the county he loves so well.

POWER, Charles A. - It is given to some men to commence their business career with nothing and through perseverance and courage to achieve ultimate success. The man who starts out with his fortune already made is handicaped from the beginning, for there is no present need to act as a stimulating impetus to. urge him forward. When he takes unto himself a wife, the rich man does not have to exert himself to provide for necessities, and therefore is robbed of much honest pleasure and desirable encouragement of his efforts. Charles A. Power of Springfield, is one of the best examples in this city of what a man Can accomplish if he only possesses the right amount of willingness to work, and knows how to save his money.

Mr. Power was born in Springfield, May 14, 1852, being a son of Maurice and Margaret (Smith) Power, both natives of Ireland, who transmitted to their son many of the desirable qualities. The father was a shoe-maker by trade, and during the war made his home at Chatham, Sangamon County, but in 1866 returned to Springfield, where he continued to reside until his death.

Charles A. Power attended the public schools of Chatham, Ill., while his parents lived there; later becoming a student of the Christian Brothers' school, and the Springfield public schools. He learned the cabinetmaking trade in the furniture store of Mr. Westenberger, with whom he remained three and one-half years, during this time thoroughly mastering the business. No better example of his work can be found than his own two-story residence at No. 1401 Whittier Avenue, Hawthorne, which he built.

On September 10, 1878, Mr. Power and Miss Elizabeth White, of Springfield, who was born in Fancy Creek Township, were united in marriage. Mrs. Power's father was also a native of Ireland, who died during her infancy. Although Mr. and Mrs. Power have no children of their own, they have reared three and are among the most charitable people of Springfield. Both are consistent members of the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Mr. Power being a very generous supporter of it and an earnest worker in its ranks. He belongs to its regular societies, as well as to the Western Catholic Union, Council No. 3864, Knights of Columbus; to the Modern Woodmen of America; to the Mystic Circle; to the Loyal Americans and the Royal Circle. In politics, he is a Democrat.

Mr. and Mrs. Power are "delightful entertainers and their pleasant home ig often the scene of charming gatherings, both always displaying that hospitable instinct which is so characteristic: of the people of Erin and their descendants. In church and social circles both are very popular, and whenever sorrow enters the homes of any of their friends, it is to these two good people that the afflicted come for

POWER, Charles P., was born on the farm where he now resides, in Fancy Creek Township, February 14, 1882, and belongs to a family that has taken a prominent part in the affairs of the locality for several generations past. He is a son of James England and Laura (Foster-Chord) Power, the former born on the old Power homestead in Sangamon County, December 1, 1824, and the latter born at Petersburg, Menard County, October 7, 1847. The father was born and reared on the farm where his father, George Power, settled in 1821. George Power was born in Fayette County, February 18, 1798, his father being a native of

Carolina before going to Kentucky. When about ten years of age George Power accompanied his parents to Bath County, Ky., and was there married on February 10, 1820, to Nancy Wilcockson. They had but two children, one born in Bath County and the other in Fancy Creek Township. They located, upon their arrival in 1821, on the Power homestead near Cantrall, which has since been the family home. Mr.

Power held various civil and military offices, including: a commission dated September 15, 1827, from Gov. Ninian Edwards, as Major of the Twenty-fifth Regiment Illinois Infantry, under the military laws then in existence; commission from Gov. Reynolds, dated June 4, 1831, as Lieutenant of a company of mounted volunteers in the Black Hawk War; commission as Justice of the Peace, from Goy. Edwards, dated July 25, 1828, and a similar document from Gov. Reynolds, dated September 3, 1881; commission for same purpose from Gen. Joseph Duncan, August 27, 1885; one from Gov. Thomas Carlin, August 27, 1839; one from Gov. Thomas Ford, August 14, 1848, the whole covering a period of nineteen years in this office. He built the first frame house in the county north of the Sangamon River. He engaged in business with a cash capital of but five dollars and by earnest effort and good management became the owner of two thousand acres of choice farm and stock farm, at a cost of five thousand dollars, soon after the death of his elder son. who was the first person to be buried there. His elder son, born in Bath County, Ky., May 2, 1821, came with his parents to Sangamon County the same year, and there married, January 6, 1848, Nancy J. Barnett, five children being born of their union, He was elected County Judge in 1857 and reelected in 1861, dying while in office March 2, 1863, after which his widow resided in Springfield.

James E. Power, younger son of his parents, was reared on the farm near Cantrall and spent his entire life in farming. He was married and continued to live on the homestead, which he inherited. One small building now remains on the farm that was erected soon after George Power came to the place where he established a permanent home. It was on this ground that the slaves were freed about 1837. Mrs. Laura F. Power is a woman of prominence in the community.

George Power was awarded a gold-headed cane for the most skillful feat of horseback riding by an elderly gentleman, at the fair held by the Sangamon County Agricultural Society in September, 1876, the presentation being made by the President of the organization, ex-Gov. John M. Palmer, in the presence of a large gathering. Mr. Power was the eldest of the five competitors, being then in his seventy-ninth year.

PRICKETT, David - The Honorable David Prickett was of English ancestry, his father, George Prickett, emigrating to America some time before the Revolutionary War and settling in Maryland. In the struggle for Independence he cast his lot with the American patriots and fought for the freedom of the Colonies. The coat-of-arms of the Prickett ancestry is a fullantlered Buck Deer. Soon after the close of the Revolutionary War, George Prickett, the father - his family, consisting of his wife and six children, from their Maryland home to Franklin County, Ga. To all the children except one had been given Bible names of Hebrew origin and significance, namely: Abraham (the father of many); Isaac (Laughter); Jacob (a supplanter) ; Elisha (the salvation of God); John (the grace of the Lord) ; David (well beloved) ; and George, who was given his father's name, being the exception. David Prickett was born in Franklin County, Ga., September 21, 1800, and, in 1809, came with his parents to the then Territory of Illinois, the family locating at what is now Edwardsville, Madison County. Here David made his home for nearly twenty-five years. The Prickett family being thus among the early settlers, had much to do in the making of the early history of the State with which it was prominently identified.

Abraham Prickett was a member of the Constitutional Convention of 1818, which framed the first State Constitution of Illinois, and was also a member of the first Legislature held under this constitution at Kaskaskia in 1818-19, this being the last Legislature to meet in the original State capital.

David Prickett was a graduate of the law department of the Transylvania University at Lexington. Ky. He completed his collegiate course during his twenty-first year and on November 15, 1821, was admitted to the bar at Edwardsville, where he served as Judge of the Probate Court, following which was his appointment as first Reporter of the Illinois Supreme Court. While he was practicing as an attorney, the late U. S. Senator John M. Palmer began the study of the law in his office. In 1826 he was elected a member of the Fifth General Assembly from Madison County, the sessions of this body being then held at Vandalia. Letters and speeches left among his papers indicate that the affairs of the young State of Illinois were then in a chaotic condition. At the time of the meeting of this session a determined effort was made by men of nerve and sound judgment to improve the existing deplorable conditions. The punishment of criminals at this time was cruel and partook of barbarous customs, such as the whipping post, confinement in stocks, branding, cropping and the gallows. In furtherance of proper reforms, the first State Penitentiary was established at Alton, largely through the instrumentality of Representative David Prickett. The system of the Judiciary was one of the most exciting topics before this session. The people were much opposed to the plan of Judges of the courts being appointed and holding office during life or good behavior. 'This General Assembly abolished the office of Circuit Judge and imposed their duties on the Supreme Judges. It also revised the laws of the State, which required the issue of a volume of statutes of 380 pages, printed by Robert Blackwell of Vandalia. Up to this time the Judges of the Circuit Courts charged the jurors en the facts and, in many cases, made long stump speeches to the jury on the facts in the case on trial. The Fifth General Assembly corrected this evil also. by confining the instructions of the court to the law in the case only. This session of the General Assembly lasted seventy-eight days and passed 143 laws, all of which were of the highest importance to the new State. During Mr. Prickett's legislative term, he was commissioned by Governor Coles, aide-de-camp to Gen. Samuel Whitesides, which extended to service in the Black Hawk War. His notable associates in the Black Hawk expedition, were: Gen. Stillman, Commandant; Zachary Taylor, afterwards President of the United States; Lieut. Jefferson Davis, afterwards President of the Southern Confederacy; Abraham Lincoln, afterwards President of the United States; William S. Hamilton, son of Alexander Hamilton, the great Federalist; Robert Anderson, of Fort Sumter fame, and many other men who afterwards became distinguished in American History.

Mr. Prickett was elected Clerk of the House for the Seventh General Assembly (1830-31), and by successive reelections served in the same capacity in every General Assembly up to the Eleventh (1888-40), serving in the latter from December 9 to February 3, 1840, this being the first session held in Springfield - after which he resigned. He was also made Assistant Clerk of the Fifteenth General Assembly, held in 1846-47, up to the time of his death in that year.

Having moved with his family to Springfield before the capital was located there, Mr. Prickett took a very active part in securing that result, contributing liberally of his means and time to aid successfully the enterprise; and being one of the signers of a note, dated March 22, 18388, for $16,666.67, given by the citizens of Springfield, covering a balance due on $50,000, which had been pledged by the citizens, together with two acres of land, to secure the location of the capital in their town.

In 1887, he was elected State's Attorney for the First Judicial Circuit, composed of the counties of Pike, Calhoun, Greene, Morgan, Sangamon, Tazewell, McLean, Mason and Macoupin. Other official positions of importance held by him included that of Treasurer of the Board of Canal Commissioners, to which he was appointed by Gov. Carlin, in 1839, and he was elected to the same position by the Legislature in 1840 for a second term. In 1843, he was appointed by Gov. Ford, Commissioner of the State Bank of Illinois, his duties as specified by the Legislature being to reduce the public debt of the State one million dollars and to place the bank in process of liquidation.

In 1845, David Prickett and James W. Keyes, father of the late Charles A. Keyes of this city, were appointed by the Democrats of Central Illinois as a special committee to wait on James K. Polk, the newly elected President of the United

States, at his home in Nashville, Tenn., to present the desires and claims of their Democratic constituency for presidential consideration. The result of this commission was quite satisfactory to the Democrats, whose chosen representatives they were.

Hon. David Prickett, was married January 24, 1834, at Tremont, Tazewell County, Il., to Charlotte Griffith, who was born March 9, 1806, in Chester County, Pa. They removed to Springfield in 1835. Here Judge Prickett purchased a tract of land comprising nine acres, bounded by Capitol Avenue, Edwards, Second and Third Streets. The house in which the family lived has been removed and in its place stands the first Supreme Court Building ever erected by the State of Illinois. It is quite a coincidence, that this beautiful and costly building should stand on the home site of the man who was appointed, nearly a century ago, the first Reporter of the Court which occupies this temple of Justice. Unto Judge Prickett and his wife, five children were born: Christiana G., born

August 13, 1885; Thomas G., born December 23, 1837; Gibson R., born June 30, 1840; Hannah O., born January 15, 1842, and died 21st of May, 1909, and another daughter, Susan, who died in infancy. The three surviving children all reside in Springfield. Christiana G., now (1912) resides in a beautiful modern home on a part of the original Prickett site in the full enjoyment of the comforts and consolation of a happy, well spent life, and has the love and esteem of her relatives and of her many life-long and devoted friends and neighbors. Thomas G., is a retired attorney at law, while Gibson R. resides with his sister, Christiana G., looking after the business interests of the estate.

The Hon. David Prickett, after a useful and strenuous life, passed away in 1847, and his remains rest in the beautiful Oak Ridge Cemetery at Springfield. He was a man of more than ordinary ability and force and of the highest integrity. As a public official he executed the many highly responsible trusts which had been committed to his care with rare fidelity and honesty, demonstrating his peculiar fitness and capacity as a public official.

PRICKETT, Thomas G. - Thomas G. Prickett, second of the five children of David and Charlotte G. Prickett, was born in Springfield, December 23, 1837. He was educated at the Charlottesville Seminary, New York, from which he graduated in 1854. He entered the army during the rebellion with the rank of Captain in 1862, and served for one year on the staff of Gen. John A. McClernand, afterwards reading law under the preceptorship of General McClernand ; graduating with the title of Bachelor of Laws from the Law Department of the Michigan State University in 1865. He was twice elected City Attorney of the City of Springfield, and also served as Alderman in 1874-76. On November 3, 1886, he was united in marriage to Mrs. Margaret (Johnstone) McRoberts, whom he survives. Mr. Prickett is a well known, popular citizen and attorney at law of Springfield and Central Illinois, and is held in high esteem for his many excellent qualities of head and heart, as a citizen and a neighbor by his many friends. He is one of the best posted and reliably informed men in the State as to the early history of the State and the men who started Illinois on her wonderful march to success.

PRICKETT, Mrs. Charlotte (Griffith), was born in Chester County, Pa., May 9, 1806, and was married to the Hon. David Prickett, in Tremont, Tazewell County, Ill., January 24, 1834. Mrs. Prickett died in Springfield,, Ill. in 1876, and was buried beside her husband in Oak Ridge Cemetery. She was of Quaker parentage on her mother's side, being the daughter of Dr. Thomas Griffith and Christiana Gibson Griffith, who inter-married in the State of Maryland, where Dr. Griffith was born. Shortly after their marriage they removed to Pennsylvania and afterwards to Richmond, Ind., where Dr. Griffith remained until coming to Tazewell County, Ill., with his family in 1828. He was a man of more than ordinary ability and skill in his profession, a graduate of the Medical College of Baltimore and commissioned by the Royal Medical Society of London, England, to investigate and ascertain the Materia Medica of the Herbage and Flora of North America. He was a kind and affectionate husband and indulgent father, highly respected and esteemed by all who were favored with his acquaintance. He died and was buried in Tazewell County, where his remains rested until the death of his wife in 1852, when they were removed to Oak Ridge Cemetery and placed by her side.

The ancestry of the Gibson family traces back to John Gibson of Boustod Hill, Burg on the Sands, who was born in 1699, in County Cumberland, England, on the shores of the Solway, just inside the line of the old Pict's Wall and about five miles from Carlisle. He was a member of the Society of Friends or Quakers; his father, also John Gibson, was persecuted for his religious faith. Shortly after his father's death, his mother removed to Lurgan, County Antrim, Ireland. He married in Ireland Christiana Harlan, whose ancestry on the mother's side is traced to the Norman Kings. Thomas Gibson, son of the above, was born in Lurgan, Ireland, 1723, and came to Pennsylvania with his parents at the age of six years, and, in 1751 he was married. His daughter, Mrs. Christiana Gibson Griffith, the mother of Mrs. Charlotte G. Prickett, the subject of this sketch, was born in Pennsylvania in 1768, and died in Springfield, Ill., at the age of 85 years. `

. Mrs. Prickett was the mother of five children of whom mention is made elsewhere in this connection. She was a woman of most loyable character, highly educated and refined; devoted herself to the culture, comfort and moral training of her family, and early sought indelibly to impress them with habits of industry, selfreliance, integrity, patriotism and morality. She was possessed of a kind, sympathetic nature, ever ready and active in relieving the necessities and distress of others. eing a woman of high ideals and social qualifications, her beautiful and spacious home was always the seat of pleasure and enjoyment to the many friends of her young and ambitious husband. Among these were men of the highest honors in State craft and of social standing. Thus surrounded by an affectionate family and congenial friends, she bestowed a graceful and charming hospitality upon a large circle of devoted admirers.

PRICKETT, Mrs. Margaret (Johnstone), was born in Smallholm, Parish of Lochmaben, Dumfriesshire, Scotland, July 15, 1841, the youngest of eight children born to John and Mary Neckelson Johnstone. Her mother died in Scot- Jand when she was two years old. In the fall of 1851, her father, Mr. John Johnstone (being the oldest son of the family and, under the laws of England, sole heir to its landed estate - the same having descended from father to son, for nearly four hundred years), after providing for some of his relatives, who were in less favored circumstances, by placing them in possession of enough of the old estate to secure their comfort through life, disposed of the remainder, bid adieu to his native land and came to America, settling with his four daughters, Elizabeth, Jane, Mary and Margaret, and John, James, David and William, his four sons, on what,was then known as the Constant farm, consisting of 240 acres on Wolf Creek in what is now Williams Township, Sangamon County.

THE JOHNSTONES OF ANNANDALE. - The Johnnstones, at one time among the most powerful, as they are now one of the most ancient, of the Border Septs - with the winged spur as their appropriate emblem, and the words, "Ready, ae'a Ready," for their motto - were originally settled in the East Lothian, but for over four hundred years they have held extensive possessions. in the Western Marches. The first of the family, Sir John De Johnstone, was one of the Scottish Barons who swore fidelity to Edward II of England in 1896. (His great grandfather also, Sir John De Johnstone, was conspicuous for his valor in defense of his country in the reigns of David II and Robert II.) In 1810, he defeated an invading army and two years later was appointed Guardian of the Western Marches. His son, Adam Johnstone, was one of the Commanders of the Scottish Army at the battle of Stark in 1448, in which a signal victory was gained over the English invaders. Sir Adam also took a prominent part on the royal side in the desperate struggle between James II and the Douglases, and Was very instrumental in the suppression of the rebellion of that great house against the Crown. He was awarded by the King a grant of land in Lanarkshire, and the Jobnstones of Annandale have ever since borne along, with their ancestral arms, the Heart and Crown of Douglas as a memorial of the important service rendered to the Royal cause by their ancestors at that critical period. Sir Adam, the eldest son, was the progenitor of the Annandale or main branch of the family, while Matthew, his second son, who married a daughter of the Earl of Angus, chief of the Red Douglas, was the ancestor of the Westerhall branch.

On March 25, 1859, at the home of her father, Margaret Johnstone was united in marriage to John McRoberts of Springfield, Ill. He died January 22, 1882. By this marriage two children were born to her: Mary N. McRoberts, who married Judge Charles E. Messerly of Sedalia, Mo., and James J. McRoberts, also of that city. On November 3, 1886, she was married to Thomas G. Prickett, an Attorney-at-Law of Springfield. On March 27, 1912, after an exemplary and good life, her remains, accompanied by a sorrowing husband and a large circle of devoted friends, were affectionately laid at rest in the beautiful Oak Ridge Cemetery, at Springfield.

Mrs. Prickett was endowed by nature with those noble and exalted traits of heart and brain which tend to the loftiest heights of true womanhood. Deprived, as she was, of the tender and loving care of a fond mother while so young, she naturally looked to her father for that affection, care and training she so much sought and required. To him she told her childhood troubles; to him she looked for protection and comfort. While on his knee at the Scottish fireside, in song and story she learned of the wars and triumphs of her ancestry and became fully imbued with the moral of their motto. It was her guiding star through life, that at duties' call, whether from her God, her King, her country or in every day life, she must be "Ready, ae'a Ready." Though she had but little schooling before leaving Scotland at the age of ten years, she had committed to memory her Catechism, many of the Psalms and chapters in the Bible. She also memorized many of the songs of Burns and seemed to know them all. She loved her native land above all others.

She was an active and earnest member of the Mary A. Lawrence Circle of the Kings' Daughters, a Society devoted to charitable purposes. While she cheerfully acquiesced in its many modes and measures for the betterment of the unfortunate and needy, at heart she was opposed to outward show or publicity of charitable acts, often so necessary in the workings of such societies. The many sacrifices she made in behalf of those she loved and held most dear, as well as to those less fortunate than herself in the blessings of this world - all administered in strictest privacy unknown to her circle - atfforded her that inward satisfaction so consoling to her life and so noble in the sight of heaven.

She was ever ready to counsel silence in those who spoke to her of the faults, misfortunes and mistakes of others. She never had an unkind word for any and would ofttimes say: "Would there were some gift a'ge us, to see ourseal's as ithers see us." If so we would be more charitable and forgiving to one another, less vain and self-conceited and help to make this world brighter and happier for all.

County, was born in Ohio, May 2, 1833, a son of Chauncey and Mary Priest, natives respectively of Ohio and Massachusetts. His father came comparatively early to Sangamon County and farmed within its borders as long thereafter as he lived. Mr. Priest's great-grandfather was a soldier in the Revolutionary War and the history of his patriotic service will long be cherished by his descendants.

In the family of Chauncey and Mary Priest were three sons and two daughters, of whom only two survive. The subject of this notice began his education in Ohio and began there the acquisition of his practical knowledge of farming under the able preceptorship of his father. He was only twelve years old when his parents brought him to Sangamon County, where he attended school and continued his labors on the home farm. He farmed in the county in all his subsequent years except during two years when he was so employed in Christian County. He was a Republican in political faith and a man of great public spirit, who had much to do with the affairs of his community, always helpful and patriotic. He passed away in 1870.

Mr. Priest married Mary Daley at Springfield, in 1859. She was born in Ireland, August 15, 1835, a daughter of John Daley. Her parents both died in their native land. She came to the United States with an uncle and for four years thereafter lived in Baltimore, Md, Then she came to Springfield, where she married. She had two brothers and a sister, all of whom are dead. She bore her husband one son, Henry Priest, who is the manager of an elevator at Lanesville, Ill. She is a member of the Roman Catholic Church. She has a comfortable home in Buffalo.

PRIEST, John W. (deceased). - In recalling the life and services of John W. Priest, who for years was a prominent factor in the developing of the enterprises which have been vastly beneficial to Springfield, a long path backward must be traveled, his early experiences belonging to an era that seems distinctly remote from the things of today. He came of hardy stock, pioneers from Vermont to western New York in days when transportation was by means of oOxteams and the traversing of a hundred miles was accomplished only after days of arduous travel.

John W. Priest was born at Pomfret, Windsor County, Vt., and died in Springfield, Ill., June 7, 1887. His parents, both of English extraction and presumably of the farmer class, left Windsor County for St. Lawrence County, N. Y., and it is recorded that in order to assure a safe crossing of the ice on Lake Champlain, the oxen were shod with wooden shoes. The new home proved to be a tract in the virgin forest, and even as a child of seven years, John Priest was called on to help his father in clearing a spot on which could be built the first semblance of a home. He grew in strength and in stature and in the course of years was his father's main dependance in the developing of a farm, proving himself a worthy and filial son. When he reached man's estate he formed domestic ties of his own and in 1835, with his wife, Olive Wakefield, made a wagon journey, interrupted by a passage on the Hrie Canal, to Montgomery, Ala., that southern city being selected mainly on account of the delicate state of his young wife's health. Mr. Priest engaged in the stove business and worked at the tinner's trade until it became evident that his wife could not long survive, and they returned to New York, where she died in 1840.

At the time of his wife's death Mr. Priest was thirty-one years of age, his birth having occurred October 18, 1809, and he was in the flush of manly vigor. To walk a part of the way from St. Lawrence County, N. Y., to the prairies of Illinois did not appear a very formidable feat, and as he had no other means of transportation but the lakes and Erie Canal and no railroads led to Sangamon County or centered at what is now the busy and populous Capital, he made most of the long journey on foot. He entered into the brick manufacturing business in Springfield, and being a pioneer in this line, became an extensive manufacturer, the brick all being made by hand. He was a good business man and through foresight and business judgment his undertakings became successful. He was engaged in farming for many years and in a number of other enterprises. He established a furniture and stove store on the north side of the Square in Springfield, and this became a landmark in the city. At various times he invested in land, acquiring a section near Pana, Christian County, and 500 acres in Clear Lake Township, near Springfield, and the original patents for this land are preserved by his descendants.

Mr. Priest's first wife was Olive Wakefield, whom he married at Parishville, N. Y., in 1835. His second marriage took place in 1845, when he married Lucinda Stafford, at the home of her brother, Orson Stafford, in Springfield, Ill. She was born at Rochester, Ill., September 10, 1826, and died in 1851. She came of an old English family that settled in Rhode Island in 1700, the emigrant ancestor being Edward Stafford, who married Margaret Green, and their son, Joseph Stafford, married Orpha Sweet, they becoming parents of three sons: John, Joseph and Stephen. If these three sons Joseph married Nancy Green and their oldest son, also named Joseph, was born April 25, 1759, in Kent County, R. I. The last-named, although reared in the faith of the Society of Friends, became a soldier in the Revolution, serving under his relative, General Greene. A rather remarkable coincidence was that he chose for his bride a young woman named Orpha Sweet, they being the second couple in the family with identically the same names, the first being his grandparents. Ten children were born to Joseph and Orpha (Sweet) Stafford, some of whom came to Sangamon County, Ill., where they married and identified themselves with other old families, and the name of Stafford frequently appears on important papers and in valuable records, there being at that time many prominent representatives of the family. Caleb Stafford, father of Mrs. Priest, was born June 22, 1789, and in 1804, accompanied his parents to Essex County, N. Y. He later served in the War of 1812, married Rebecca Eggleston, and in 1836 came with his family to Illinois, He died May 7, 1855, and his wife in 1843.

To John W. and Lucinda M. (Stafford) Priest four children were born, namely: Olive, was married, in 1867, to George C. Latham, a representative of one of the prominent old families of Springfield; Mary E., who is the widow of Silas Wright Currier; two others, John Orson and Emma Rebecca, died in infancy. Mr. Priest Was married in 1853, to Catherine Wright, of Hopkinton, St. Lawrence County, N. Y., who died in 1875. In 1878, he was married to the estimable lady who survives him, Mrs. Pheobe Eggleston, a resident of Springfield.

For many years Mr. Priest was an active and useful citizen, accepting the responsibilities of public life and performing the duties pertaining to them with the faithfulness of a man of high ideals and pure motives. He was long a member of the School Board and at various times was President of that body, his daughter, now Mrs. Mary P. Currier, having received a diploma which was signed by her father. For several years, at different times, he served as Alderman, and in 1856-58, and again in 1870 and '71, served as Mayor of the city.. It was during his incumbency of the latter office, that many city utilities were installed, and through his personal effort city bonds were sold in New York that enabled important public improvements to be made. His name is indissolubly connected with the history of street paving and the installation of the city water works, and for a number of years he was President of the latter company. In all his public-spirited efforts, he was apparently inspired by no idea except the advancement of the general welfare and the establishing of laws and methods that would be of perpetual value. In this way the influence of his beneficial life continues long after he has passed from the scene of life.

PROKOPP, Joseph W. - Among the successful farmers of Sangamon County who spent most of their lives within its limits may be mentioned Joseph W. Prokopp, who owned a well cultivated farm near Spaulding. He was born November 13, 1858, son of Joseph A. and Barbara (Shingle) Prokopp, the former of whom was born in Friedland, Bohemia, in September, 1880, and the latter in Ohio, March 12, 1830. The father came to America as a young man and was an early settler of Sangamon County, where he spent the remainder of his life in farming. They spent forty-five years on one farm, where both died, the father April 1, 1907, and the mother, March 6, 1910.

The boyhood of Joseph W. Prokopp was spent on a farm and he was educated in the schools of Sangamon County. As soon as he was old enough he began, to help with the work on his father's farm and when he started out for himself continued in similar work. He lived on the old homestead, for twenty-four years, until recently. He now resides in Middleton, Tenn., and owns 277 acres there. In 1910 he spent some time visiting in Arkansas. He is an energetic and intelligent farmer and has a natural aptitude for this line of work. He stands well with all and is known for a public-spirited, useful citizen.

Mr. Prokopp was married in Randolph County, Ill., July 8, 1886, to Mary L. Queffemme, daughter of Ambrose and Cecil Queffemme, who came from France and settled in Randolph County at a very early day, buying the farm where they now live. Mr. Queffemme was born March 1, 1829, and died August, 1911, and his wife was born December 12, 1819, and besides Mrs. Prokopp they have two other children: Adolph, born November 13, 1857, a farmer living in Missouri, and Alfred, born April 22, 1858, a farmer living on the old homestead in Randolph County. Four children were born to Mr. Prokopp and his wife: James, born April 11, 1890; Lucy, March 5, 1897; May, October 26, 1899; William, May 14, 1904. They are all fine, well-grown children and a credit to their parents.

Mr. Prokopp is a member of the Roman Catholic Church, in politics is a Republican, and takes an active interest in every issue or movement affecting the general welfare of his community. His eldest son, James A. Prokopp, now resides in Springfield, Ill.

PRUITT, Edgar C., County Superintendent of Sangamon County Schools. Mr. Pruitt came to Sangamon County in 1885 and began his work as teacher at the Pleasant Hill school, two miles east of Springfield. He taught in the country schools of the county for eighteen years, was principal of the East Springfield school for two years, and was elected to the office of County Superintendent of Schools in 1906. He is now serving his second term as Superintendent.

PRUNK, Charles J. - The stirring events of the *sixties, when men's lives were in constant jeopardy, and characters were developed overnight, are but faintly appreciated by the present generation,. who have not lived through them. Every old soldier, remembering what he suffered for his country and flag, knows that no honor can be too great for him and those who were his comrades on the bloody battle: fields which preserved the Union at such frightful cost. One of the representative veterans of Sangamon County who returned home to devote himself to the peaceful occupation of farming, is Charles J. Prunk, of Mechanicsburg Township. He was born in Clark County, Ohio, May 18, 18388, son of John and Nancy Prunk, natives of Virginia. They were married in that State, soon thereafter migrating to Clark County, Ohio, where they bought land, remaining there until 1848, when removal was made to Cooper Township, Sangamon County, Ill. Here land was bought, upon which both died, she in 1852 and he in 1863. There were eight children of their family, but Charles J. Prunk is the only one who survives.

Charles J. Prunk attended the public schools of Cooper Township, which were very different in those days from what they are today. A prinitive log house sheltered the children, who sat on rude slabs made into seats. When there was any floor aside from that provided by Mother Earth, it was made of rough puncheous. Yet the pupils learned well the lessons taught in these schools, for they were eager for knowledge and wore their few books to scraps. In August, 1862, feeling that he could not remain away from the front any longer, he enlisted in Company E, One Hundred Fourteenth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, being assigned to Virginia, General Burnside's Division, Army of the Potomac. Mr. Prunk participated in the battles of Vicksburg and Shiloh, and was on the March with Sherman to the Sea, returning through the Carolinas to Washington, where he took part in the Grand Review. On account of sickness -he was honorably discharged at Springfield, at the close of the war.

In February 1868, Mr. Prunk was married to Melissa Dickenson, born in Sangamon County, IN., daughter of George and Amanda Dickenson, natives of Kentucky. They have one daughter, Clara, who married Charles Taylor. Mr. Taylor, who died, leaving her with one son, Charles Walter, now a bright young lad of fourteen years. Mrs. Prunk died December 4, 1905, and Mrs. Taylor now keeps house for her father.

Following his marriage Mr. Prunk began farming in Mechanicsburg, leaving the homestead where he had resided up to that event, owning part of that land. He on this place lived until fifteen years ago, when he sold his farm and moved to Mechanicsburg, and there has since lived retired. In politics Mr. Prunk is a Republican, but has not desired office. He is a Methodist in religious faith and has taken an active part in church work, contributing liberally towards its support. Like most of the old soldiers, Mr. Prunk takes a deep interest in the G. A. R., belonging to Stephenson Post, of Springfield. In both war and peace Mr. Prunk has proven himself a good citizen. Hardworking and thrifty, he not only made a living for himself and family, but provided for his old age and established his reputation for fair and honorable dealing. Quiet, never forcing himself upon public notice, but trying to do his full duty as he sees it, Mr. Prunk has made many friends who are proud of his war record, and glad to be numbered among those deemed worthy a place in his confidence.

PUFFINBARGER, Martin, of an old and honored family in Sangamon County, is a native of the county and a veteran of the Civil War. He was born December 25, 1888, son of William and Mary (Harris) Puffinbarger, the father a native of Maryland and the mother of Ohio. The father removed to Ohio aS a young man, was there married, and soon afterward, in 1882, came to Sangamon County, settling on a farm south of Springfield, later entering 120 acres of government land there. He operated this land, which he had improved, for many years, then sold it and removed to Christian County, where he spent the remainder of his life, both he and his wife dying on a farm there. There were six sons and three daughters in the family, of whom four sons and one daughter now survive, namely: William C., of Oswego, Kan.; Jackson, of Christian County; Mary, wife of Jacob Cordman, of Oswego, Kan.; Martin, of this sketch. Martin has a half-brother, Douglas Puffinbarger, living in Kansas.

Mr. Puffinbarger was educated in the public schools and reached man's estate on his father's farm. He was acquainted with Abraham Lincoln and his first vote was cast for Stephen A. Douglas. During the early days of the Civil War he enlisted in Company H, One Hundred Forty-fifth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, under Col. Lackey, and at the end of three months was mustered out and discharged at Springfield. He had participated in several skirmishes, mostly in Missouri, and after his service resumed farming, which he has since followed. With the exception of three years spent in Christian County, he has spent his entire life in his native county, and has been on a farm during that entire period, with the exception of two years spent in the city of Springfield. He rents a good farm on Section 10, Cotton Hill Township, where he has lived the past two years, and has a pleasant home there. This land is well improved and in a good state of cultivation.

Mr. Puffinbarger was married in Springfield, in September, 1869, to Mary Lettie Martin, who was born in Christian County, Ill., June 26, 1851, daughter of Eli Martin, an early settler of that county, who followed his trade of blacksmith there until his death. Four children were born of this union, of whom two now survive: Ida M., wife of William Boyle, of St. Louis, has one son, William E. Boyle; Hattie A., wife of Lawrence Furlong, lives with her father. Mr. Puffingbarger is a Democrat in politics and ready to perform every duty that devolves on him as a citizen.

_ PUGLISI, Stephen, who has built up an excellent trade in the line of fruit and produce in the city of Springfield, is a native of Italy, born November 25, 1863. He is a son of Dominick and Vittoria Puglisi, the father being interested in various lines of business at Messina (the scene of the memorable earthquake of a few years ago), including the occupations of carpenter and builder, mine dealer and wholesale grocer. At the age of nineteen years Mr. Puglisi left school and came to the United States and learned the trade of barber at Brooklyn, N. Y. In 1888 he came to Springfield and embarked in his present business at 218 North Fifth Street, where he conducts the largest enterprise of its kind in the city. During the year 1910 he handled one hundred and fifty carloads of fruit and produce, and he has won a reputation for fair dealing and first-class goodsthat is a valuable asset.

Mr. Puglisi was married in Springfield in 1890 to Sarah Foti, a native of Milazzo, Italy, who came to America as a small child, and two children have blessed this union, Victoria and Dominick. The family reside at 3234 North Sixth Street and attend the Church of SS. Peter and Paul. Mr. Puglisi is Independent in politics and belongs to the Order of Woodmen. He is well regarded by his patrons and has many warm friends in the city.

PURVINES, Achilles Newton. - It is with the greatest pleasure that we present the name of this honored citizen-soldier and pioneer farmer of Sangamon County, to the readers of this work. He was born on Section 29, Cartwright Township, where his sister Mrs. Thomas White was born, and has since made her home. He was a son of Samuel and Mary (Irvin) Purvines, both born in Cabarras County, N. C., he in 1800, and she in 1802. Both families came from North Carolina, settling in Sangamon County in 1820, and in this county the parents were married. Samuel Purvines was a son of John Purvines, born in Pennsylvania in 1769, moving to North Carolina prior to the Revolution, enlisting from that State into the Continental Army, serving in it for five years. Much later, he moved to Illinois, locating one mile north of Pleasant Plains where he entered land from the government, and there made his home until death claimed him in 1832. On this same farm, Samuel Purvines passed away, in August, 1852, while his wife died in October of that same year. Samuel Purvines and wife were parents of eleven children, three of whom died in infancy, eight growing to maturity, as follows: Tabatha married Robert F. Hamilton, dying in 1909, aged eighty-two years; Lydia A., married J. C. Bone, dying in 1867; A. N., born December 1, 1832, the subject of this review; Matilda, widow of Thomas White of whom further mention is made elsewhere in this work; Frances was the fourth wife of J. C. Bone, dying in 1909; John F., a resident of Springfield, is nearly seventy years old; Rachel M., widow of James build up and beautify Sangamon County than that of Purvines. Coming to the county in 1820, when the State had been in the Union for but a short time, the grandfather of our subject settled on Section 20, and later his son entered land on Section 29. The family has been prominent in agricultural life and successful as farmers .and stock raisers, The old grandfather was one of those who offered up his life to secure liberty for this country, and following that led a thrifty, industrious existence. The younger generation are sustaining the reputation made by the honored pioneers for good citizenship and excellent farming. It is because of such families as this, that Illinois has attained its present prominence.

Achilles Newton Purvyines received his education in the subscription schools of the county, attending one held in the old log school house with its puncheon floor, slab benches and mud and stick chimney. The primitive fireplace was lined with rocks. The parents of the children had to pay a certain amount per child, so that the education of his eight children cost Samuel Purvines considerable amount, but he believed in education, and gladly denied himself to give them the advantages these schools afforded. At the same time, he expected them to assist on the farm, and as soon as one was old enough to plow, he was set to work driving three and four yoke of oxen to break the wild land. Mr. Purvines forgets the hardships of those times, and delights to look back to those early days of the settlement of the county. He retains an old cradle and reap hook and in looking at them recalls the happy days at home before death made any break in their household. He remembers his mother using the old spider to cook her corn pones in the fireplace. Until one year of her death, the mother used these primitive utensils, preferring them to those of more modern pattern, and Mr. Purvines contends that corn pone cooked as she used to make it, is far superior to anything now produced. In his boyhood, Mr. Purvines dropped corn by hand until his father bought the Brown corn planter. Although reared to primitive methods in his farming, Mr. Purvines has kept abreast of improvements, and has the latest improved machinery on his premises.

Like his honored grandfather, Mr. Purvines responded to his country's call, enlisting August 8, 1862, in Company F, One Hundred and Fourteenth Illinois Volunteer Infantry for three years' service, or until the close of the war. The regiment was organized at Springfield, and was sent in November, 1862, to Memphis, Tenn., and assigned to skirmishing duty. In the spring of 1863, the regiment participated in the Siege of Vicksburg, and other engagements in Tennessee and Mississippi. In June, 1864, Mr. Purvines was wounded at Guntown, Miss., in the right ankle. With this painful wound, he and his regiment managed to escape, but were pursued with bloodhounds, but managed to get into the swamp, where the water killed the scent. They subsisted seven days on wild blackberries and bark from the trees, suffering terribly. Mr. Purvines in his crippled condition tramped to Memphis to rejoin the portion of his regiment which had been transferred to that city, spurred on by the fear of imprisonment in the dreaded

Memphis, he was put in the hospital, and kept there for two months until able to rejoin his regiment. Following this he was sent to Little Rock, Ark., to reinforce General Steele; then to Nashville, Tenn.; thence to Mobile, Ala., where news reached the command of the surrender of General Lee. The regiment was returned to Vicksburg, and there mustered out in August, 1865, being honorably discharged at Springfield, Ill. In 1863, Mr. Purvines was promoted to First Duty Sergeant, retaining this office to the close of the war, although he often performed the duties of his captain.

After the war, he returned to the old home, soon thereafter buying 120 acres of land on Section 3, which is now his home. Immediately, he began to improve this property, erecting comfortable buildings, tiling the land, and buying new machinery. He now owns 345 acres in one body on Sections 3 and 4, and 90 acres in Section 29, Cartwright Township, a total of 435 among the first to begin breeding fine horses, short-horn cattle and Poland-China hogs. He has become a leader in breeding all kinds of stock. All his life, Mr. Purvines has been identified with the best interests of Sangamon County, and has always been public-spirited. He was first a Whig, but upon the formation of the Republican party, he joined issues with Abraham Lincoln with whom he was well acquainted, and is proud to say that he was one of Lincoln's hirelings. He has never sought public office, but has continued to content himself with the duties of a good citizen. For the past few years, he has practically retired from active life, while he still makes his home on the farm, surrounded by friends and the comforts of home, gained through the efforts of a busy, well-spent life. Socially he is a member of the Dick Johnson Post, G. A. R., of Tallula, Ill. No better or truer citizen of soldier ever lived in Sangamon County than A. N. Purvines of whom we write.

PURVINES, Burton Lee - An agricultural life is one of the healthiest and sane there is, for under the blue sky and amid the influences of nature, the farmer learns to take a broader view of life and humanity, than when crowded in the confines of a large city. His living is assured him from his land, and if he understands Few farmers of today are content to follow old lines, but are branching out, and specializing in many lines. Still there are many who prefer to devote themselves to general farming, and all are benefiting from the experiments conducted by the government and private individuals. One of the leading agriculturalists of Sangamon County, is Burton Lee Purvines, who owns a fine tract of 400 acres. He was born on a farm hear Pleasant Plains, May 22, 1875, a son of Green Lee and Louisa (Potter) Purvines, the latter of whom was born in Menard County, near Petersburg, Ill., a daughter of Elijah Potter. Elijah Potter was born in White County, Ill., but in early manhood moved to Menard County where he died. Abraham Lincoln made his home at the house of Mr. Potter's mother while a clerk in the store at Old Salem, and Mr. Purvines has never changed his views regarding that great man, for whom he early formed an attachment and to whom he gave an unrestricted admiration.

The boyhood days of Mr. Purvines were spent much the same as those of other farmer youths of his vicinity, the time not needed on the farm, being spent in attending the district schools of his locality. Owing to the failing health of his father, his time was pretty well occupied, and when his father died on December 20, 1894, he assumed full charge of the place. In 1895, Mr. Purvines assisted his mother in erecting a beautiful home on Church street, Pleasant Plains, but continued to operate the home farm of 268 acres.

On September 14, 1898, Mr. Purvines was united in marriage with Miss Susie Harrington, daughter of George T. Harrington, whose biographical sketch is given at length elsewhere in this work. After marriage, Mr. Purvines returned to his birthplace, and he and his wife gave their attention to farming and stockraising. This continued until 1904, when after a very successful career as an agriculturist. Mr. Purvines built a cottage on Main street, in Pleasant Plains, still continuing to operate the

` farm in its entirety. In 1907, he rented a portion of the home place, but continues his farm and stock operations from Pleasant Plains, owning 400 acres of rich farm land. In 1910, this land averaged sixty bushels to the acre, he haying planted 225 acres in corn.

Mr. Purvines is one of the representative men of his county and State, being very progressive in his methods and beliefs. He is prominent fraternally, belonging to Pleasant Plains Masonic Lodge, No. 700, and Welcome Lodge No. 770, I. O. O. F., while both he and his wife are connected with the Eastern Star Lodge. They are consistent members of the Christian Church, in which they are active, giving liberally of both time and money. In political matters, he has always been a Democrat, and can be depended upon for hard work in securing the election of the candidates of his party. Such people as these are the very backbone of any community, for they not only are influential in material mat-

Purvines, who is carrying on operations in the eastern part of Pleasant Plains. Mr. Purvines was born in Menard County, Ill., December 22, 1863, a son of Green Lee Purvines. When Mr. Puryines was about eleven years of age, the family located in Cartwright Township, and as soon as he was able to reach the plow handles, he began to do his full share of the work on the home farm, and so continued to operate about forty acres of land with his father until reaching his majority. He was married October 17, 1888, to Elizabeth Watkins, who was born west of Petersburg, Menard County, whence her family had come from Kentucky, this branch of the Watkins family having been was the daughter of Samuel and Mary (Woldridge) Watkins, who are still living on the old Watkins farm. Of their eight children, all are still living, as follows: Jennett, the wife of Zadock Thompson, a merchant of Petersburg, Ill.; Elizabeth, who became Mrs. Purvines; Evans G., a prominent farmer of Menard County ; Elias, who carries on operations northwest of Petersburg; Walter, a farmer and stock breeder of Menard County; Edgar, an agriculturist engaged in operations west of Petersburg; Hattie, the wife of Christian C. Juhl, a farmer near Petersburg; and Nona, the wife of Ira R. Abbott, owner of the electric light plant at Petersburg. Samuel Watkins was one of the prominent agriculturists of his section of Menard County, where he operated about 2,500 acres of land, and he was often urged to accept political honors by his fellow townsmen of the Democratic party, but being a man of a quiet and unassuming nature, he always preferred to give his time to his farm and his home.

After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Purvines settled on a part of his father's farm in Cartwright Township, and there he successfully carried on operations on 300 acres of land until 1902, in which year he built a beautiful home in the eastern part of Pleasant Plains. In addition to about 400 acres in this county, he owns a tract of 320 acres in Cowley County, Kans., and 850 acres in Potter County, Tex., a total of 1,570 acres. His Sangamon County land produced eighty bushels of corn to the acre in 1910, and he has also been very successful in the breeding of stock. He is one of the intelligent and progressive farmers of the county, and his operations have always been carried on along scientific lines. Much of Mr. Purvines' success may be attributed to his wife, who has assisted him in many ways as only the agriculturist's wife can help him. While not a member of any special church, Mr. Purvines is always ready to contribute towards church or charitable movements. His political belief is that of the Democratic party. He is very fond of travel, believing that it is an education and means of broadening the mind and increasing one's fund of knowledge, and in 1900, with his brother-inlaw, he took an extensive European trip, visiting the Paris Exposition, Germany, Switzerland and Denmark.

To Mr. and Mrs. Purvines there have been born four children as follows: Talvi Y., born December 9, 1889; Rollie, born March 12, 1892; DeWitt L., born April 29, 1893; and Mary J., born May 22, 1906. Mrs. Purvines and her children affiliate with the Christian Church. In 1901, Mr. Purvines, with his son and daughter went to Texas, where they broke out 300 acres of land, on which they raised a large crop of corn and maize, and later erected a home. During his absence Mrs. Purvines raised 100 head of hogs without the aid of any one. Mr. Purvines is a representative of the best type of Illinois agriculturist and may be depended upon to creditably maintain and substantiate the name of one of the State's pioneer families.

PURVINES, Green Lee (deceased). - Prominent among the names of representative and distinguished citizens of Sangamon County, Ill., should be placed that of the late Green Lee Purvines, who during a long life spent here and in Menard County established a reputation for uprightness of character and sterling integrity in every walk of life. He was a native of Sangamon County, born in Cartwright Township, near Pleasant Plains, November 10, 1826, a son of Alexander C. and Margaret ( Weddington) Purvines, both natives of Cabarrus County, Ni WO

Alexander ©. Purvines was born March 16, 1794, and continued to make his home in his native county until 1819, when, accompanied by his wife and child, he emigrated to Sangamon County, and here three other children were born to him and his wife. Albert B. Purvines was born October 25, 1818, in North Carolina, and died in Sangamon County, Ill., March 11, 1839; John W. was born in this county October 25, 1821, and died in 1841; Elizabeth F., was born June 23, 1824, and died in 1852; she had been the wife of John C. Bone, who is also deceased and Green Lee was the fourth in order of birth. Mr. Puryvines' mother died in January, 1831, and the father was married a second time to Mrs. Jane Hamilton, nee Coleman, and by this union there were eight children.

John Purvines, the grandfather of Green Lee, was born in Lancaster County, Pa., in 1873, and it is supposed that the family is of French extraction; that it emigrated from France to Ireland, and thence to the Colonies prior to the Revolution, locating in Pennsylvania and other eastern States. It is thought also that the name was originally spelled Purviance, as written, one Robert Purviance, in the courts of Cabarras County, N. C., and as signed by David

S. Purviance in the capacity of witness on two occasions in the Illinois courts. John Purvines removed to Mecklenberg County, N. C., in 1775, and to Cabarras County in 1779. During the Revolutionary War, he enlisted in the company of Capt. James White, attached to a regiment commanded by Colonel Davis, and the company marched to a point in South Carolina, where the entire militia of the Carolinas had assembled under General Rutherford. Soon afterward occurred the battle of Stone River, July 20, 1779, in which Mr. Purvines. participated. Later, in 1781, he enlisted as a private horseman in the company of Captain William Penny, being attached to the army under young General Gates at Lynch Creek, thence to Rugsby Mills; was present at the capture of Fort Orangeburg, S. C., in May, 1781; was a member of a foraging party which was attacked by the Tories, his horse shot, he being wounded himself and his saddle captured. At another time he was a member of a foraging party which visited an old mill. While there they were surrounded by a detachment of Tories. Mr. Purvines was the only one who evaded capture, which he managed to do by jumping from a window into the river, and by swimming he succeeded in making his escape, although fired on by the Tories several times. The close of the war found him under the command of Col. Wade Hampton and General Sumter, and when he was mustered out of the army he had a record of nearly five years of fighting. In 1819, he went to Sangamon County, Ill., and there the death of this patriot occurred in 1833, and there a monument to his memory was erected by his friends.

The boyhood of Green Lee Purvines was much the same as other boys of his day and locality, his spare time being given to attendance at the small district schoo] house, and much attention paid to the work of the home farm. On reaching man's estate, he started out to farm on his own account on an eighty-acre tract in Menard County, which had been given him by his father. Later he purchased the adjoining eighty acres, and on this tract he made his home for upwards of a quarter of a century. On selling that place, he bought a farm two miles east of Pleasant Plains in Cartwright Township, to which he added from time to time until he hhd accumulated 500 acres of fine farming land, all under a high state of cultivation and improved with large substantial buildings,

On February 4, 1862, at the home of the bride in Menard County, Ill., Mr. Purvines was united in marriage to Louise Potter, a native of that county and a daughter of Elijah and Elizabeth (Green) Potter. Mr. Potter was born in White County, D1., February 24, 1813, and his wife in Overton County, Tenn., October 30, 1818, and when five years of age came to Illinois with her parents in a wagon. Mr. Potter died March 23, 1870, and Wis wife August 16, 1888, both being interred in Greenwood Cemetery, Tallula. To Mr. and Mrs. Purvines there were born three children: Marietta, wife of J. Henry Irwin, an extensive farmer in Cartwright Township; Elijah Alexander, farmer living in the Village of Pleasant Plains; and Burton Lee, who owns the old homestead.

_PURVINES, James 0., a retired farmer residing at Pleasant Plains, Ill., was born a mile and a half northeast of his present home, February 11, 1845, a son of Alexander C. and Jane (Coleman) Purvines. The father was a native of Cabarrus County, N. C., and came to Sangamon County about 1823, being among the "Snow Birds" who struggled so hard for existence in early days. The mills were so far distant they had to mash their own corn for meal and they lived among the Indians for neighbors. Mr. Purvines was born March 16, 1794, and died in Illinois July 16, 1861. He was a man of strong character and pronounced views, always ready to defend the honor of his State. He was one of the founders of Cartwright Township. At the time of the Mormon trouble at Nauvoo he took a load of men and started for that place, although having no gun himself. Those who were armed started to the front and Mr. Purvines took a neck yoke from his wagon and started to do battle with it, but found it unnecessary to take any active part in the fight. When the excitement was over they returned to the work on their farms, none the worse for the adventure. Deer and other wild game helped furnish meat for their larder. Their market was St. Louis, to which place they hauled wheat and sold it for twenty-five cents per bushel and sold dressed hogs for $1.75 per hundredweight, making the trip with ox teams. Mr. Purvines was a man of energy and determination and at the time of his death was one of the extensive land holders of his part of the county. He saw the wild prairie and heavy timber land converted into fertile farms and the Indian hut give way to the home of the farmer. He helped build the Richland Baptist Church and was an earnest Christian. His latch-string was always left on the outside and the train of families moving westward who passed his place found a stopping place and a chance for rest at his home. His widow survived until October, 1878. She was a woman of high character, who was always cheerful amid the trails of pioneer existence and held in warm regard by all who knew her. Her maiden name was Jane Coleman, and she was born January 28, 1806. Her first marriage was to George Hamilton, by whom she had two sons and a daughter, namely: Robert F. Hamilton, died and left a family in Illinois; Martha C. married Asural Emory, a wealthy land owner living near Cuba, Mo.; George K., died at Pleasant Plains. After the death of Mr. Hamilton she became the wife of Alexander ©. Purvines, who had been married before, and by his first wife had children as follows: Alfred, born October 25, 1818, died in young manhood ; John W., born October 25, 1820, died in 1821 ; Elizabeth became the wife of + Jack Bone,

3y his second marriage Alexander ©. Pur- Vines had children as follows: Margaret, born September 5, 1832, married Abraham Duff and died in Texas about 1909; William G., born September 3, 1834, lives at Pleasant Plains ; Nancy S., born August 9, 1836, died in young womanhood; Sarah E., born July 17, 1838, married Mr. Hill Armstrong and died without leaving children; Alexander J., born August 5, 1840, died in Kansas about 1907 and his widow in 1908; Itha L., born September 12, 1843, wife of E. L. Bone, of Petersburg, and mother of William Bone, a noted lecturer;

James O., of this sketch; Edgar C., born July 11, 1847. The mother of these children gave tender motherly care to fourteen children and also reared four grandchildren, making eighteen children who had grown up in her household. She and her husband gave the children such educational advantages as they were able. James Oscar Purvines attended the Purvines district school and was reared to farm work. He remained on the farm until coming to Pleasant Plains in 1891. May 5, 1874, he married Miss Mattie Harnett, born near Circleville, Ohio, June 25, 1851, daughter of James B. and Mary (Pontious) Harnett. Her father died in Ohio, December 1, 1865, and in 1869 her mother brought her children to Pleasant Plains, where she bought a home and where her death occurred March 12, 1896. She had twelve children, of whom four now survive: James P., married Mary Blaney, in 1876, and is a contract- of S. S. Purvines, of Pleasant Plains; Sarah, wife of Morgan Luse, of Garnett, Kan., recently celebrated their golden wedding anniversary ; Mrs. J. O. Puryines; Catherine, Wilson and Joseph died unmarried; Susanna; Daniel, deceased; Elizabeth married Dan Donovan and is deceased; Louisa married a Chas. McLane and died at Circleville, Ohio, in 1882. Mr. Purvines purchased a beautiful home at Pleasant Plains and has since resided there. Their children are: Merry May, born April 25, 1875, graduate of the high school of Pleasant Plains, and of Sangamon College; George O., born July 22, 1877, a graduate of the State University, has for the past eight years been Assistant Cashier of the Farmers State Bank at Tallula, and is a young man of business ability and promise; Libbie Jane, born October 20, 1879, wife of James A. Daniels, Assistant Cashier of the bank of Heyworth, Ill., has two children, David Russell, born in March, 1903, and Gwendolyn, born July 21, 1906; Louana, born January 26, 1882, died September 24, 1885; Florence M., born June 21, 1889, is a post-graduate of Pleasant Plains High school and the Normal of Bloomington, and has for the past three years been a teacher at Pleasant Plains High School. The children of this family have been given many advantages in the way of edu- cation, etc., and have been fitted for honorable positions. Merry May is known throughout central Illinois as an expert horsewoman aud an excellent judge of the merits of horses. For the past fourteen years she has been one of the most successful teachers of Sangamon County and commands the highest salary. She has won many medals for her riding at state and county fairs and is noted for her easy and graceful carriage. She is a lover of fine horses and an expert in training a fine saddle horse. Her sister Florence is also an excellent horsewoman and both daughters are well known as teachers of ability, having many friends.

Mr. Purvines has been identified with the best interests of his community and county and has taken an active part in all movements for the general welfare and progress. In early life he accompanied his father when the latter sold corn for eleven cents per bushel after hauling it a long distance, but times have greatly changed and he has been one of the most successful men of the county.

PUTNAM, Samuel, a prominent and wellknown citizen of Spaulding, Ill., where he served several years as Postmaster, is now retired from active life. He was born in Delaware County, N. Y., July 8, 1888, a son of Jeremiah and Hannah (Roe) Putnam, the former a native of Connecticut and the latter of New York. The father was a shoemaker by trade, and was a soldier in the War of 1812. He settled in Delaware County at an early day and there followed his trade of shoemaker until his death. He and his wife had three sons and four daughters, and those surviving besides Samuel are: Charles, a retired merchant living in New York, and two daughters now residing in Delaware County.

Mr. Putnam acquired his education in his native county and worked on a farm after leaving school, continuing in this line of work until he came to Illinois in 1861. He then worked several years on a farm near Buffalo, and later engaged in the manufacture of tile at that place. Some years later he engaged in the same business at Cedar Rapids, Ia., but lived there only a short time, then returned to Sangamon County and spent a short time at Riverton. He worked several years in the employ of the Spaulding Nursery Company, and, in 1898, received the appointment of Postmaster of Spaulding, being re-appointed twice and holding the position eleven years. He conducted a general store in the village during this time, but has now retired from active life. He has spent a busy, profitable life and has been successful to a fair degree. Mr. Putnam enjoys the confidence and regard of a large circle of friends and well merits their good opinion.

December 31, 1863, Mr. Putnam was married, at Delavan, Ill., to Miss Anna Browner, born in Rushville, Ill., December 11, 1838, daughter of John Browner. Mr. Browner was a native of Maryland and his wife of Virginia. They were married in Columbia, Ky., and were early settlers of Rushville, locating there about seventy-five years ago and remaining there until their deaths. They had four sons and four daughters and of these but three now survive: Mrs. Putnam; a son living in Denver, Colo.; and Mrs. Mary Fiske, of Chicago. To Mr. Putham and wife two children were born, Gertrude and John. The former is the wife of William Bell and they live on a farm near Rochester. John lives with his father and mother, married Jessie Stutters, and has four children: Amy, Roy, Gertrude and John.

PUTTING, William Fred, a successful manufacturer of Springfield, Ill, was born in St. Louis, Mo., December 26, 1860. His parents, Frederick W. and Catherine (Sheer) Putting, were both born in Germany in the years 1828 and 1832 respectively. Frederick W. Putting was engaged in contracting business in the city of St. Louis for a number of years subsequent to his arrival in America, and later moved his family, consisting of three boys and four girls, to Worden, Ill., where he continued to be an active business man until the time of his death.

Of the sons, William was the second in age. When about fifteen years old he manifested a strong interest in mechanics and immediately began to learn the blacksmithing trade.: He labored hard and industriously, working in various shops and factories until his ability as an artisan was generally recognized. During the month of October, 1898, he opened a general blacksmithing business in Springfield on a small scale. His ability, together with his honesty and thrift, soon developed a business that demanded larger quarters, so he was obliged to move four times to accommodate his patronage. In this manner he grew from a repairer to a manufacturer of vehicles.

Mr. Putting was married to Ida F. Klaus, daughter of John and Rosina Klaus, at Moro, Ill., on the 10th day of October, 1882. The male line of the Klaus family for generations, until now, without exception, were mechanics and artisans. É

Mr. and Mrs. Putting have had three children, all of whom now are prominent citizens of Springfield: Oscar J. Putting, an able attorney of the Sangamon County Bar; Rosa V. Riefler, wife of Carl Riefler, Auditor of the Court of Honor; and Edward H. Putting, now the junior member of the manufacturing firm of W. F. Putting & Son.

The manufacturing business of which Mr. Putting is the head is the largest of its kind in this part of the state. Thus, by early ambitions, long and persistent toil and labor, Mr. Putting, entirely without assistance, has risen to a position of high credit and respect among his fellow townsmen.

Mr. and Mrs. Putting continue to enjoy good health, and from all indications will yet spend many a happy day in their comfortable home at No. 316 North Glenwood Avenue,

PYLE, William A., one of the best-known farmers of Woodside Township, Sangamon County, Ill., is a large landowner and has been very successful in his operations. He owns a very pleasant home on Section 21 and enjoys all the comforts and conveniences of modern times. He is a native of Sangamon County and has witnessed the remarkable development of his section of the State during the past eighty years. Mr. Pyle was born November 13, 1830, and belongs to one of the earliest families to settle in Sangamon County. His grandfather, Nicholas Pyle, came from England and first located in South Carolina. He was married in Carolina during the Revolution, his wife's maiden name being Ann Black, and some of their children were born there and the others in Kentucky, where they lived later. They moved to Christian County, Ky., and thence to St. Clair County, Ill., remaining there a short time, and about 1825 came to Sangamon County.

Thompson Pyle, the father of William A., was born in Kentucky and became a farmer. He accompanied his father to Sangamon County and settled on a farm near where his son William now lives. He entered land from the Government and both he and his father died on this land, the former December 19, 1870. Thompson Pyle married Margaret Moffit, also a native of Kentucky, whose death occurred in 1896. They became parents of ten children, of whom four are living.

William A. Pyle was educated in Sangamon County and in his boyhood worked on his father's farm, where he has lived ever since. He now owns 340 acres of excellent farming land, part of which was entered from the Government. He has done much himself toward the development of his farm, but now rents most of it to tenants and has practically retired from business life. He was born the year of the deep snow and is a member of the "Snow Bird Club," of Sangamon County.

Mr. Pyle is one of the most highly respected men of his part of the county, is popular with his many friends, and personally is a genial, whole-souled gentleman, kindly in manner and nature, and a representative of the highest type of citizen. He is always ready to forward every worthy cause and takes great interest

QUINN, Edward. - The agricultural States have always offered attractive opportunities for farmers, and none more than Illinois. During the 'fifties and 'sixties the tide of emigration brought with it many sturdy, industrious, hardworking men from more eastern States, and they remained, becoming well-to-do through cultivating the land they secured before it attained its present high value. One of the men who was far-sighted enough to appreciate the fact that in this State he could obtain something worth while from his work, is Edward Quinn, now living retired in Springfield. He was born in County Tyrone, Ireland, in May, 1836, being a son of Patrick and Mary (McHugh) Quinn, both of Ireland. The father was a farmer and he and his wife never came to America, but died in their native land. He passed away in young manhood, leaving a widow and three sons and three daugbters, of whom Edward Quinn was the youngest and is the only survivor.

After a boyhood spent according to the customs of his time and country, Mr. Quinn came to this country in 1854. He had helped his father on the farm, and proven himself a good son, so that when he landed in Philadelphia, on May 16th, he found ready employment, for he had learned obedience to his employers, and how to give fair measure for the wages paid him. Four years later he left Philadelphia, coming west to Morgan County, where he resumed his farming work. In 1862 he located in Sangamon County, which has since continued to be his home. He rented eighty acres and this he made his home until 1900, when he retired to Springfield.

Mr. Quinn was married in Springfield, in November, 1880, to Anna McCool, born in Donegal, Ireland, whose parents never left their native land, dying there. Two children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Quinn: Frank J., manager of a large shirt and overall factory of Cairo, Jll., resides in that city; and May A., in the employ of the Stevens Dry Goods Company, resides at home. There is one grandchild in the family. Mr. Quinn knew the lamented Abraham Lincoln and is proud of the fact. He owns his well-kept home at No. 610 West Capitol Avenue, as well as other city realty, and is in comfortable circumstances. In political faith he is a Democrat. A strong Roman Catholic, he is connected with St. Agnes Parish, and is one of its liberal supporters. Kind-hearted, genial, and an excellent type of the best class of his countrymen, Mr. Quinn has many warm friends and holds the confidence of his associates.

QUINN, Patrick Joseph- - Ireland has given the United States some brilliant statesmen, and reliable business men. There is something in the character of an Irishman that wins friends, and when he also possesses excellent business judgment his success is assured. A representative of the genial, popular son of Erin, whose home has been in Springfield since 1881, is Patrick Joseph Quinn. Mr. Quinn was born in County Mayo, March 12, 1861, a son of Patrick and Ann (Morrissoe) Quinn, both of whom were also born in County Mayo. There they married and spent their lives, the father dying in 1896 and the mother surviving until 1905. He was a farmer all his life and a hard-working man. He and his wife were Catholics and brought up their three sons and four daughters in the same faith. One daughter is now deceased and two sons and two daughters came to the United States.

Patrick Joseph Quinn arrived in America in 1881, coming direct to Springfield. He had received a fair common-school education in Ballaghadereen, Ireland, leaving school when sixteen years old to help his father on the farm. When he arrived at Springfield, however, he did not engage in agricultural work, but obtained employment in the watch factory. He also worked in the rolling mills and in the parks, finally, in 1904, embarking in his present business.

Independent in politics, Mr. Quinn gives his support to men and the measures, rather than to any particular party. He has never aspired to public office, but is liberal in his support of charities and movements he believes will work out for the ultimate good of the community. Mr. Quinn belongs to the Catholic Order of Foresters, and is a consistent and liberal supporter of St. Agnes Catholic Church, to which he belongs. On June 26, 1889, Mr. Quinn was married to Mary Tobin, born in County Waterford, Ireland, daughter of William and Bridget (Flynn) Tobin of the same county. They came to America about 1872, when Mrs. Quinn was five years old. Five children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Quinn, but only three survive: William, who is with the Chicago & Alton railroad; Anna, at home, was educated at St. Agnes School and the Ursuline Convent; and Bernardine, also at home. Mr. Quinn has accumulated considerable property in Springfield, and has displayed his confidence in the future of the city by thus largely investing.

RACHFORD, Thomas W., who now holds the position of City Electrician of Springfield, was chosen because of his ability and technical knowledge, in preference to others less well qualified to fulfill the duties and responsibilities of the position. He was born in Chenoa, McLean County, Ill., November 13, 1870, son of Thomas and Catherine (O'Brien) Rachford, both natives of Ireland, where the former was a farmer. Thomas Rachford and his wife emigrated to America and settled on a farm in McLean County.

The early education of Thomas W. Rachford was acquired in the public schools and he afterwards attended Grand Prairie Seminary, at Onarga, Ill. He was reared in the Catholic faith. He is skilled in electrical work and has had valuable experience. In political views he is a Democrat and fraternally he belongs to the Modern Woodmen and the Knights of Columbus. He is a member of the Roman Catholic Church. He owns the property where he resides, at 336 North Fifth Avenue, Springfield.

Alton, Ill., to Miss Kathryn Kelly. Three children were born of this union, namely: Jobn Kelly, born May 30, 1906; Kathryn Agnes, June 10, 1908; Thomas Walter, Jr., March 15, 1910. Mr. Rachford is highly esteemed by his associates and has many friends. He is a man of energy and ambition, making the most of his opportunities and giving his best services to the city by which he is employed.

RAGAN, Jonathan (deceased), for many years a resident of Mechanicsburg, Ill., was one of that village's most highly respected citizens. He was born in Washington County, Md., March 9, 1831, a son of John and Sarah (Cra-~ mer) Ragan, both of whom died in the Hast when their son was quite young. The father was a farmer by occupation,

The education of Jonathan Ragan was acquired in Hagerstown, Md., and after leaving school he learned the trade of printer, which he followed in Hagerstown until coming West, in 1866. He came direct to Mechanicsburg, his home for the remainder of his life. He worked at farming for several years and under the administration of President Cleveland served as Postmaster of Mechanicsburg. Later he followed his trade, conducting a printing office for several years. He was well regarded by his fellow-citizens and served one year as Constable. In politics he was a Democrat. In later years he seryed as caretaker of the Christian chureh and of the school house at Mechanicsburg. He was a devout member of the Christian Church, as is his widow.

Mr. Ragan was married in Hagerstown, Md., October 9, 1852, to Miss Sarah Young, born in Frederick County, September 14, 1828, daughter of Frederick and Lydia (Bowersocks) Young, both natives of the same county. Mr. Young was a tailor by trade and conducted a shop in Johnsville, Md., where the family resided many years. They removed to Mechanicsburg in 1865, and there the parents died. There were five children, of whom two still survive: Mrs. Ragan, of Mechanicsburg, and Mrs. Martha Fortune, a widow, living in Springfield.

Six children were born to Mr. Ragan and wife in Hagerstown and two after they located in Mechanicsburg, and five children are living, namely: Richard H., Anna, Mrs. John R. Woodcock, Mrs. John Anderson, Mrs. Maggie Samonds. Richard H. Ragan, a resident of Springfield, married Miss Mary Hall, of Mechanicsburg, who died in March, 1903, having borne four daughters and one son, and four children are now living, namely: Anna,'living with her grandmother, Mrs. Ragan; Bertha, deceased ; Elizabeth, wife of George Cox, of Springfield ; William, of Mechanicsburg and Hallie, of Springfield. Lydia Ragan married Amos Benedict, who was a soldier in the Civil War and is now deceased, and of their children four are living, namely: Gertie, wife of Frank McCoy, of Springfield; Cora, married A. H. Kanahan, of Lanesville; Jesse, of Springfield; Christina, wife of Charles Barnett, of Springfield. Mrs. John Anderson and her husband live on a farm north of Decatur, having eight children, namely: Edna, wife of William Weedman, of Glenarm, and her twin sister, Ethel, wife of Carl Huff, also of Glenarm; Clara, Cordelia, Georgia, Roy and Grace, all at home. Maggie Ragan married John Samonds, of Springfield, and their children are: Katie, wife of Carl Wilson, of Virden; Arthur, Ernest, Leslie, Byron, Russell, Clarence, and Harold, all at home.

Mr. Ragan had many friends in the community and was missed from many circles. He took welfare. He was a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. His widow has a comfortable home in Mechanicsburg.

RAGLAND, Joseph. - Kentucky furnished to the Western States many excellent men who had the instinct that prompted pioneers in the days when what is now a mighty commonwealth was a wilderness peopled by savage Indians. One of the men who owes his birth to this fine part of the country is Joseph Ragland, one of the scientific farmers of Sangamon County, owning thirty-four acres of rich land in Williams Township. He was born September 30, 1858, in Kentucky, a son of Hugh and Eliza (Mears) Ragland, both natives of Kentucky. Hugh Ragland followed farming all his life, never leaving the Blue Grass State, where he and his wife passed away, after rearing a fine family of four sons and three daughters to do them credit. He was a soldier in the Mexican War, serving to the end. He lived to the ripe old age of seventy-four years, dying in full possession of the confidence and esteem of his neighbors.

Joseph Ragland was brought up on the Kentucky homestead, working on the farm for his father, and attending the schools of his neighporhood. Having heard so much of the rich Sangamon County farm lands, however, in 1881 he left his home to come there, and immediately engaged in farming in Williams Township. After five years there he returned to Kentucky, where he continued farming until 1906, when once more he located in Williams Township, buying thirty-four acres in Section 7, which has been his home ever since. There he carries on farming and gardening, and has been eminently successful. >

Mr. Ragland was married in 1879, to Bettie Walters, born in Kentucky, and they had three daughters and two sons, three of whom survive: Nannie, wife of George Durham, of Franklin, Ill.; Mary, residing with her sister, Mrs. Durham; Frank, who resides in Kentucky. Mrs. Ragland died in 1895. In 1902 Mr. Ragland was married to Nan Blanton, also of Kentucky, no issue. She died in 1907. j On August 15, 1910, Mr. Ragland was married to Mrs. Margaret Parker, of Springfield, born in New Jersey, but a resident of Springfield and San- gamon County for fifty years. Her father was a merchant in New Jersey, where both her parents died. The Methodist Church claims Mr. Ragland's membership, while in politics he is a Democrat. He is an excellent farmer, who understands thoroughly what he is doing, and his land has increased in value very materially since it came into his possession,

RAHMAN, Herman. - The history of the Civil War has never been fully written, and never can be, for it is impossible to give in detail what the soldiers suffered, or what their after life has been, hampered by the effects of exposure and neglect. Although the nation rests under a heavy debt of gratitude to the veterans, they appear to estimate their services at much less than do those who come after, who, profiting by the results, know what the cost really was. One of the honored veterans living in Springfield, is Herman Rahman, a German-born citizen who risked life in defense of his adopted country. Mr. Rahman was born in Neiderland, May 7, 1889, a son of Fackka and Mary (Benz) Rahman, natives of Germany. In 1847 the father emigrated to America, settling first in Pelleville, Ill., but later removing to St. Louis, where he died. In his native land he was a farmer.

Herman Rahman had few educational advantages, his schooldays being limited to his native land and a short period after arrival in America, for his services were required to help support the family. Upon coming to Illinois, in 1856, Mr. Rahman located near Tallula, where he remained until the outbreak of the war. He enlisted from Camp Butler, in Company F, Twenty-eightL Illinois Volunteer Infantry, participating in the battles of Pittsburg Landing, Spanish Fort, Belmont (Ark.), Hatchie River, and the charge at Jackson, Miss., being discharged at Springfield, in 1865. He then settled down in Springfield, which has since been his home. Mr. Rahman belongs to Stephenson Post, G. A. R., of Springfield. In politics he is a Republican.

On December 6, 1869, Mr. Rahman was married at Rockport, Mo., to Minnie Martin, born near Berlin, Germany, December 16, 1849. Her parents never came to America, but died in Germany. Twelve children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Rahman, eight of whom survive: Dorothy Louise, wife of Charles Lloyd, of Whiting, Ind.; Marie, of Chicago; Angie, wife of Bert Fernandes, of Jacksonville, Il.; Whilma, at home; William, of No. 101 Osburn Avenue, Springfield; Frank, of Toledo; Harry, of Springfield, and Lewis, at home. There are eight grandchildren in the family. For some years Mr. Rahman has been living retired, after a long and useful life, and during which

RAMSEY, Christopher (deceased). - The arduous work of a coal-miner takes such heavy toll of the system that many die in the very prime of life, and few live to a healthy old age. Yet the very danger of the work appeals to many, and the Springfield mines constantly attract men to them. One of the men who passed away unduly was the late Christopher Ramsey, born in Mauchchunk, Pa., March 14, 1861, a son of Christopher and Margaret (Ray) Ramsey, the former born in County Fermanagh, and the latter in County Cavan. The parents came to the United States at an early day, locating near Champaign, Ill., where the father farmed until his death in 1896, his widow surviving him until 1903. There were eleven children in the family, of whom four survive: Katie, wife of William Hale; Eliza, wife of Adam Poulk, and Margaret, wife of James Baskin - all of Pennsylvania; Joseph of Findley, Ill., and Christopher.