Sangamon County, Illinois - The whole text, 1912 (part 34 of 46)

Christopher Ramsey was reared on the farm, attending school as he found opportunity. His first work was on his father's farm, but later was employed in the rolling mills after coming to Springfield, still later being engaged in coal mining, where he was employed when he met his death, May 18, 1909. Mr. Ramsey was married in Pennsylvania, September 16, 1881, to Catherine Baskin, born in County Donegal, Ireland, November 27, 1858, a daughter of Adam and Katherine (Alcorn) Baskin, her father a native of County Donegal and her mother of an island on the coast of Ireland. Mrs. Ramsey was the youngest of the eight children born to her parents, the others being as follows: Margaret, wife of Patrick Foster of Ireland; Jane, wife of James Baskin; William; Adam; Mary Ann, wife of William Spence of Ireland; Fanny, wife of John Trimble of Pennsylvania; and James, also of Pennsylvania. Mr. and Mrs. Ramsey had these children: Catherine, died in childhood; Robert A., born July 17, 1888; William A., born in September, 1885, and died at the age of eighteen years; Chester J., born July 26, 1891; Joseph D. and John Norman (twins), born December 12, 1893; Christopher died young.

Mr. Ramsey belonged to the Modern Woodmen of America and the U. M. W. A., and his associates in both adopted appropriate resolutions expressing their sympathy upon the occasion of his death. In politics he was a Republican, while his church affiliations were with the Episcopal Church. He was a man who never neglected his duty, and was a kind husband and father and a most worthy citizen.

RANKINS, William, an honored veteran of the Civil War and a highly respected citizen of Mechanicsburg, Ill., spent most of his active life in agricultural pursuits and has now retired. Mr. Rankins was born at Flemingsburg, Ky., April 12, 1839, son of John L. and Mary E. (Stockton) Rankins, both also natives of Kentucky. The parents moved from Kentucky to

Callaway County, Mo., when William was a boy and located on a farm there, remaining until the death of the father. The mother died in 1874, in Springfield, Hl. There were four sons in the family, of whom William is the only survivor. One son, Robert, served in the Confederate Army and died from a wound received while on duty at Antietam. John was a son of William Rankins, who served in the War of and the father of his wife, George Stockton, was a Commodore in the United States Navy during the same war.

As a boy William Rankins attended school at Fulton, Mo., completing his education after coming to Sangamon County. He worked on the farm for his uncle, George Stockton, until nineteen years of age. April 15, 1861, he enlisted in Company G, State Militia, then entered in the Forty-ninth Missouri Volunteer Infantry, serving with this company until the close of the war. He was mustered out at Benton Barracks, Mo., August 2, 1865, being then Corporal of his company. He participated in many battles, including Moose Mill, Spanish Fort, and minor skirmishes, but was never wounded or taken prisoner. He has every reason to feel proud of his record and was well known among his comrades for his devotion to duty.

After the war Mr. Rankins again engaged in farming in Sangamon County and continued same until he retired from active life, a few years ago. He was married at Fulton, Mo., July 12, 1860, to Mary E. Spannhurst, by Rev. Dibbles. She was born in Germany, January 12, 1848, daughter of Frederick and Elizabeth (Bannegarden) Spannhurst. Her parents came to America, when she was a child and located in Callaway County, Mo., where they spent the remainder of their lives, the father being a carpenter by trade. There were five sons and two daughters in the family, and of these two sons and two daughters are now living. Nine children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Rankins and of these six survive: Minnie, wife of Mace Short, a farmer of Mechanicsburg Township; Edward, a farmer of Christian County; Ida, wife of Charles Patrick, of Christian

Katherine, wife of George Blankenship, of Christian County, Saphronia, at home with her parents. There are twelve grandchildren in the family.

Mr. Rankins is a member of the United Brethren Church and in politics is a Republican. He is much interested in the welfare and progress of the county and has always been a representative, public-spirited citizen.

RAPE, Alfred N. (deceased). - The Rape family were among the early settlers of Sangamon County, Ill., and have always represented the best interests of the community where they have lived. Alfred N. Rape was a native of the county, born May 5, 1880, a son of John Rape, who purchased land there at an early day and carried on farming until his death.

The boyhood of Alfred N. Rape was spent on a farm and he was educated in the district schools of Sangamon County. He worked for his father until the latter's death, then engaged in farming on his own account. He continued this occupation successfully for many years, then worked at the blacksmith trade for sixteen years in Pawnee, retiring from active life in 1869 and locating in Dawson. He enlisted August 12, 1862, in Company K, One Hundred Twenty-fourth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, serving three years and being honorably discharged at Vicksburg, Miss., August 15, 1865. He had served his country well and participated in fifteen battles. He became a prominent member of the G. A. R. Post at Pawnee and was a member of the Methodist Church. He was ever ready to lend his aid to any public movement he considered worthy his help and in politics was a Prohibitionist. He won the respect and good-will of his neighbors and was a kindly, conscientious man. He had a high regard for good principles in others and carried out his religious teachings in his daily life.

Mr. Rape was married in Dawson October 17, 1871, to Mary A. Constant, born in Lake Fork, Ill., June 17, 1836, daughter of Isaac and Nancy (Peoples) Constant, both natives of Kentucky. The parents were early settlers of Mechanicsburg Township, moved to Lake Fork, Logan County, thence to Buffalo Hart Grove, Sangamon County, and finally to Dawson, Ill. The only survivors of the family are: Mrs. Rape; her brother, William R., residing at Ottawa, Kan.; Sadie, widow of H. M. Van Winkle, of Dawson; Mrs. Margaret Deavers, of Mt. Pulaski, Logan County. Two children were born to Mr. Rape and wife, both of whom died in infancy. Mr. Rape died March 2, 1892, at his home in Pawnee. His widow owns a beautiful home in the village, where she has won many

RAPS, George J. (deceased). - Some of the bravest soldiers in the great struggle between the North and the South, were of German birth. They were trained in their own army service and were not raw recruits, so that their enlistment was hailed with delight by those who were forming the regiments to send to southern battlefields. After the war was over they responsible business men or public officials, rounding out their lives in peace and prosperity. One of these representative soldier-citizens of Springfield, was the late George J. Raps, born in Germany, July 1, 1886, a son of Mathias Raps, also a native of Germany, where he farmed. The mother died when George J. Raps was only a year old. Mathias Raps came to the United States but did not identify himself with any enterprise, living retired among his which time he learned the carpenter trade, George J. Raps grew into vigorous young manhood and, appreciating the fact that more opportunities were to be found across the ocean, he came to America, locating in Springfield, where he readily found employment at his trade. In 1590 he went into business for himself, thus continuing until he was made a policeman. He was also connected with the grocery trade, being successful in all his undertakings. Previous to his death he was actively engaged in business controlling a large trade. During the Civil War he enlisted in Company F, Second Missouri Volunteer Infantry, becoming Corporal, and served gallantly until he was mustered out. He was a member of the German Lutheran Church, to which his family still beiong, and in politics was a Republican.

Mr. Raps was married, in Springfield, January 29, 1869, to Mary Heneadlia, born in Germany, March 9, 1848, who was brought to Springfield by her parents at an early day. Her father was a tailor by trade. Five children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Raps, four of whom survive: Paul of Springfield, employed by Van Horn; Henry in the employ of the Illinois Watch Company; Catherine, wife of Henry Krithenmeyer, of Sands, Ill., where he is pastor of the German Lutheran Church; Ambertina, wife of John G. Kupler, of Jacksonville, Ill., where he is pastor of the German Lutheran Church. Mrs. Raps owns her pleasant home at No. 221 West Capitol Avenue, as well as other city property. She is essentially a home woman, taking great interest in domestic affairs, and is one of the noted housekeepers of her neighborhood.

RAUTH, Joseph Bernard - Among the successful and enterprising business men of Springfield, Ill., who have made their way in the world by their own hard work and ambition, is Joseph Bernard Rauth, a native of Springfield, born at No. 106 East Mason Street, son of Frederick and Julia (Buselmyer) Rauth, both of whom were born in Germany. The father was a bricklayer by trade and later became a contractor. He emigrated to the United States and he and his wife were parents of eleven children, three dead and eight living.

Joseph B. Rauth was born March 17, 1862, and spent his boyhood in his native city. He was educated at SS. Peter and Paul Catholic School, and then began learning his trade of bricklaying, in which he became very proficient. He was a partner of his father as general contractor from 1891 to the year before the latter's death. In 1900 he began contracting on his own account, which he has since continued. He is a man of good business judgment and knows every detail of his business thoroughly. Being a good workman himself, he demands good service of his employes, and has been able to build up a good business, which has been steadily increasing and is a financial success. He built the SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, also the First Church of the Sacred Heart, the Illinois Hotel, Commercial Hotel, the Reisch Brewery, and many other business buildings and handsome residences.

Mr. Rauth is a man of good habits, sterling honesty and reliability, and has a good reputation among those with whom he has had dealings. Fraternally he is a member of the St. Vincent Benevolent Society, which he joined in May, 1879, also of St. Peter's Court of Foresters. He is a devout member of SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Church and has always supported its good work as has his wife. In national politics he votes for Democratic candidates, but in local affairs votes for the man he considers best fitted by ability and principles to give the best service to the public. Mr. Rauth is well known and has a host of friends. He owns the property at 1000 North First Street, which has been his home since February 15, 1908. He lived with his parents until his marriage, then moved to 318 North First Street, where he lived until he built his present beautiful residence.

Mr. Rauth was married, at Quincy, Ill., May 24, 1904, to Marian Brinkman, daughter of Bernard and Gertrude Mass, natives of Westphalia, northern part of Germany. Mrs. Rauth was born at Quincy, Ill., the sixth of nine children of her parents. She has a twin sister now living at the old homestead. She and her husband have no children.

REAVLEY, Jacob Matthias. - Too much credit cannot be given the man who has struggled against adverse early circumstances, developing himself into a successful business man. The self-made man is a product of this country, where he is given the chance to rise and become prosperous. One of Springfield's business men who can justly lay claim to such a title, is Jacob Matthias Reavley. He was born in Springfield, Ill., April 9, 1883, a son of William and Elizabeth (Greenalogh) Reavley, natives of Pennsylvania and England, respectively. Both parents survive, the father having retired from his work of coal mining. He is a Republican but has never sought to come before the public in an official position.

Jacob Matthias Reavley attended the McClernand public school of this city, and after leaving it, worked for some time in a cigar factory. "He then engaged in coal mining for three years, after which he started into business for himself. His success is probably due more to the fact that he has always endeavored to give all men a square deal, than to anything else. Mr. Reavley is very liberal in his views, not alone on religious questions, but in politics as well. According to his belief, in local affairs it is better to vote for the man or measure calculated to be of service to a majority of the people, rather than allow himself to be restricted by party lines. However, in national affairs he is a Republican.

On March 6, 1906, Mr. Reavley was united in marriage with Miss Belle Waggoner, who was born in Pike County, Ill., daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Waggoner. They have no issue. Mr. Reavley is engaged in the wine, liquor and cigar trade at 613 East Adams Street, Springfield.

REAVLEY, Robert, a prosperous known citizen of Riy erton, Ill., now position of County Mine Inspector, was appointed in 1908. Mr. Reavley was born in Springfield, Sangamon County, March 10, 1875, son of Thomas and Jane (Hughes) Reayley, the former born in Pennsylvania in 1836, and the latter born in Wales, in 1839. The father was a miner, but is now living retired from active life. The parents are both now living in Riverton, where they have resided for several years. The mother came to the United States at the age of twelve years, and after spending a few years in the Hast, came to LaSalle County, Ill., where she met Mr. Reayley, who had come duri ing the Civil War. They were there married and the father enlisted in an Illinois Regiment, serving three months. At the close of the war he engaged in mining and lived thirty-five years in Springfield, then moved to his present home.

In boyhood Robert Reavley worked in the mines, which occupation he has followed all his life until a few years ago, when he became an inspector. He received his edueation in the public schools of Riverton, but left school for work at an early age. He is largely a selfmade man and has made the most of his opportunities for mental and material improvement. He is largely self-educated and has learned much in the school of experience. He is well informed in the business he has followed all his life and has made an exhaustive study of methods and desirable conditions under which the work should be directed. He is able to state his ideas with clearness and vigor, and performs his official duties in an able manner, realizing that much depends upon his sound judgment and careful investigation. He owns a very pretty and comfortable home in Riverton, besides other property. He is a member of the Methodist Church and in politics is a Republican. Fraternaly he is prominent in the Masonic Order, being affiliated with Lodge No. 756, at Riverton, and is also a member of Lodge 445, I. O. O. F.

April 21, 1894, Mr. Reavley was married, at Riverton, to Alice Safford, born in that village September 1, 1878, whose parents came from the East and both are now deceased. Mr. Safford was an engineer by occupation. Four children have blessed the union of Mr. and Mrs. Reavley: Lester, Joseph, Irene and a baby born April 29, 1911.

REAVLEY, Thomas, Sr., retired miner and well known citizen, of Riverton, Sangamon County, is a son of William and Mary (Berlison) Reavley, natives of England, and was born November 12, 1835, in Schuylkill County, Pa., where his father was a coal-miner. His parents had come from their native land to America in 1834. The father became superintendent of several mines in turn and remained in Pennsylvania some years, then moved to Shullsburg, Wis., where he was successful as a prospector for lead. After twelve years' residence in Wisconsin, he moved to LaSalle County, Ill., to accept the superintendency of a mine. Several years later he went to similar employment at Springfield. From Springfield he finally retired to LaSalle, Ill., where he died, aged ninetyseven years. He and his good wife lie side by side in Oak Ridge Cemetery, Springfield. They had five sons and four daughters.

Thomas Reavley Sr. was educated in the district school at Silver Creek, Pa., and early learned mining, at which he was long employed in Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Illinois, until his retirement from active life a few years ago. He is of the stuff of which soldiers are made, and April 1, 1861, when war had become an assured fact but had not progressed beyond its beginning, he enlisted at LaSalle, Ill., in Company K, Eleventh Regiment, Illinois Volunteer Infantry, in which he saw continuous service until the end of hostilities, when he was discharged at Bird's Point, Mo., with the honor due a good and faithful soldier. His brother Joseph also did soldier's duty in the Civil War. In 1869 Mr. Reavley located at Springfield, whence, after some years, he removed to Riverton, where he has since lived. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic and of the Methodist Episcopal church. In his political affiliations he is a stanch Republican.

At LaSalle, Ill., in 1859, Mr. Reavley married Miss Jane Hughes, born in Wales, September 20, 1838, the daughter of a miner who came to America and became well known in mining circles in LaSalle, Ill., later removing to Riverton, where he and his wife both passed from the scenes of this life. Mrs. Reavley bore her husband ten children, of whom the following survive: Mrs. Phema Bell, of Riverton; William Reavley, miner, of Riverton; Robert, County Mine Inspector and Examiner, Riverton ; George, of Riverton; Margaret, wife of William Wanless, manager of the Klondike mines, Riverton.

RECHNER, August. - Conditions have changed so materially that housekeepers are conducting their homes upon an entirely different basis today than that which their mothers inaugurated. They are finding it better and cheaper to buy bread and pastry ready-made, and are growing more and more to depend upon reliable bakeries to supply their needs along these lines. For this reason the bakeries of Springfield are assuming added importance in the industrial life of the city, and one of the experienced men engaged in supplying this large demand for wholesome and appetizing food is August Rechner, proprietor of Rechner's Bakery, at No.

500 North Twelfth Street. Mr. Rechner secured his training in one of the best places in his native land, Baden, Germany, where he was born October 5, 1878. He is a son of John Joseph Rechner, whose biography appears elsewhere in this work.

Mr. Rechner attended Reisenbach Catholic school, in Baden, leaving school at fifteen years of age. He had already begun learning his trade, and after leaving school was able to devote all his time to it, becoming thoroughly experienced. In 1895 he left Germany, coming to America and landing in New York. He did not remain in that city, but came direct to Springfield, where he secured employment in a bakery at No. 1158 North Eighth Street. Here he remained five years, becoming acquainted with the language and conditions during this time, so that when he established himself in business he was able to meet all its requirements successfully and build up a firm reputation for excellence and fair dealing.

On April 30, 1901, Mr. Rechner was united in marriage to Helen Bansbach, a sister of Mrs. William Rechner, whose biography will be found elsewhere in this volume. Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Rechner: William Albert, attending SS. Peter and Paul's Catholic School; Joseph Henry, Albert Carl and Otto Frederick, at home. Mr. Rechner is a Democrat, but has been too fully occupied with business cares to look for office. He belongs to SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, of which he is a liberal supporter, and belongs to the Catholic Societies of his church. Perhaps no man in Springfield is a better type of the German-American of today, alert, progressive and far-sighted, in favor of good educational advantages for the young and the furtherance of all measures which tend towards a moral uplift.

RECHNER, John Joseph (deceased). - The late John Joseph Rechner, who died April 16, 1907, was highly esteemed by all who knew him, and his memory is tenderly cherished by his widow and children. He is remembered as a man of upright character and kindly disposition, well known in the community where he lived and possessing many friends. Mr. Rechner was born in Baden, Germany, was there educated, and after marriage settled on a farm in his native place. His widow is also a native of Germany and now resides in Baden. They were parents of five sons and three daughters, all of whom survive: two sons and one daughter live in Germany; William, born November 13, 1866, is a business man of Springfield; August is also in business in Springfield; Sigmund is associated with his brother William in a business way; and two daughters. The sons are enterprising and energetic and have become successful in business.

financially. His life was a fitting example to his children, all of whom extended him their complete respect and reverence, and all were reared to follow the faith and teachings of their Church in all their relations of life.

Mrs. Rechner, whose maiden name was Katherina Hemberger, lives in Baden. She is greatly revered by all who know her for her high character and kindly disposition.

RECHNER, William, a well-known resident of Springfield, Ill., was born in Baden, Germany, November 13, 1866, son of John Joseph and Katherina (Hemberger) Rechner, both natives of Germany. The father died April 16, 1907, and the mother still resides in Baden. Both were reared in the Catholic faith and in the education and training of their children ever kept before them the teachings and lessons of the church. Of their five sons and three daughters, all survive, namely: one daughter and two sons living in Germany; William and his brother Sigmund, associated in business in Springfield; August, a baker in Springfield, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this work; two daughters. Sigmund Rechner, born in Baden, August 27, 1881, was educated in the Reisenbach Catholic School, in Baden, and in 1903 came to America, working first in the Rechner bakery, conducted by his brother August, and later becoming associated with his brother William. Sigmund and August are members of the SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Springfield. The former is unmarried and is a member of St. Vincent's Society. In politics he is Independent.

The boyhood of William Rechner was spent on his father's farm and after he reached the age of fourteen years he did not attend school except on Sundays, and on the other days of the week assisted his father in the farm work. He was educated in the Reisenbach Catholic School and was reared in the utmost respect and reverence for the teachings of the church. In 1891 he emigrated to America, came direct to Springfield, Ill., but shortly afterwards went to Dixon, where for four months he was employed on a farm. Returning to Springfield, he worked some years for the Reisch Brewing Company, and filled various positions with this firm. For some years past he has been engaged in business on his own account and has established himself as one of the successful men of the city. He is a self-made man and has the entire confidence of his associates in business. His probity and integrity are unquestioned and he has many warm friends. He has never sought public office, although much interested in the welfare and progress of the community. In politics he is a Democrat.

Mr. Rechner was married, October 19, 1892, to Miss Lena Bansbach, who was born in Baden, Germany, daughter of William and Francesca (Galen) Bansbach, both of whom died in Germany. She was the fifth child in a family of five daughters and two sons, of whom four daughters and one son live in America and one daughter and one son live in Germany. Mrs. Rechner died January 9, 1908, and was buried in Calvary Cemetery at Springfield. She left eight children, namely: Frances Katherine, Lucy Mary, August William, Louis Joseph, Theresa Elizabeth, Irene Agnes, Irma Molly and Charles, twins. Mr. Rechner is a member of SS. Peter and Paul Roman Catholic Church, of which Rey. Riesen is pastor. He belongs to St. Vincent's Society, the Western Catholic Union and the Catholic Order of Foresters. The family reside at 715 North Fourth Street. Mr. Rechner has been able to accumulate considerable city real estate in Springfield.

REDMOND, James. - The Irish are generally recognized as being among the brightest and most genial people in the world. Wherever an Irishman is found he is sure to have friends and to have attained some degree of success in whatever line he has followed. Some of the most highly-esteemed residents of Springfield are natives of Erin, and among them none occupies a better position in the confidence of the community than James Redmond, veteran of the Civil War, and a merchant. Mr. Redmond was born in Dublin, Ireland, March 1, 1835, a son of John and Martha (Munlo) Redmond, natives of Ireland, where the father was a merchant, dealing extensively in dry goods.

On September 1, 1860, James Redmond came . from England to New York City, after having been educated in that country, to which his parents moved. Arriving in this country, Mr. Redmond soon became imbued with the spirit of the times, and when his adopted land needed his services, he promptly enlisted, in 1861, in the Union army, serving three years and being honorably discharged. During his time of service he proved his bravery and learned to love the country he was risking his life to defend.

After his military service Mr. Redmond came to Springfield, where he embarked in a dry goods business, conducting it very successfully. From time to time he proved his confidence in the future of the city by investing in its real estate, until now he is a large property owner. He is a consistent Catholic, belonging to St. Joseph's Church, to which he subscribes liberally. Politically he is a Republican, but has never come before the people for election to office.

February 18, 1865, Mr. Redmond was married in Springfield to Margaret Fitzgerald, and they have one son, Frank, born in Springfield in 1871. Mrs. Redmond's brother was a well known business man of Springfield. Although now somewhat advanced in years, Mr. Redmond is active and takes a lively interest in business. His recollections of early days, and of the stirring events of the war are interesting and well worth inserting in this too brief biography, did space permit. Too many of the veterans of Springfield have already been called Higher, so added honors are shown the sur-

REED, Charles M., a representative farmer and stock raiser of Loami Township, Sangamon County, Ill., is a native of the county, born in Cartwright Township, June 24, 1857, son of William and Elizabeth (Allen) Reed, the former a native of Ohio and the latter of New Jersey. Elizabeth Allen was born May 8, 1828, and in 1840 accompanied her father to Butler County, Ohio, where she became acquainted with William Reed, and they were married about 1854, after which they came to Sangamon County and settled on land in what is now Island Grove. His father, John Reed, had Seven sons, and bought a large body of land nearby, giving each of his sons a farm. All seven sons married and had children, except Robert, and William was the fifth in order of birth. The only ones of the family now living in Sangamon County are Charles M. and his brother George M.

William became a prominent farmer and was respected by all who knew him. His father died in Island Grove Township about 1861, In politics William Reed was first a Whig and later a Republican. He was a quiet, eventempered man, his wife never seeing him out of humor, and he nad many warm personal friends. Children as follows were born to him and his wife: John W., a dairyman of Long Beach, Cal., Charles M.; Mary E., wife of Hugh Pollock, and they have four children - Harry, Elizabeth, Stella and Margaret; Mary, of New Berlin, with whom her mother resides; George M., on the old home farm. Mrs. Elizabeth Reed (second) Joshua Drake, who is deceased, and they had one child, Frank, now Principal of the Edwards School, in Springfield. William Reed's death occurred in 1868. John Reed was one of the founders of the Presbyterian ehurch at old Berlin and the family have always been in the front in public enterprises. The seven sons of John Reed settled near the home farm and this locality became known as the. Reed Settlement.

Charles M. Reed spent his boyhood much the same as other country boys and was edueated in the district schools. He helped with the farm work and remained on the home farm after the death of his father, until he reached his majority. He was married, February 13, 1878, to Miss Amy J. Van Doren, and soon after began working by the month. His wife is a daughter of Peter C. and Margaret (Hathaway) Van Doren, the former a native of Ohio and the latter of New Jersey. Mr. Van Doren and his wife were married in 1829 and in 1831 moved to Sangamon County, locating in Curran Township, where they spent the remainder of their lives, he dying in 1903, at the age of eighty-five years, and she died at the age of seventy-two years, having been born in 1820. Both were devout Methodists and reared their children in the same faith. Of their nine children eight still survive: Sarah, widow of

S. P. Gibson, of Loami; John M., a farmer of Oklahoma ; E. H., died in Wichita, Kan., in 1906; Cornelius, a farmer living near Chatham; Hannah M., widow of William Nixon; Barbara H., married John Ebersalt, and they live near Petersburg, Ill.; William L., a farmer near Chatham; Mary, wife of Hiram Alexander, of Chatham; Amy, Mrs. Reed.

In 1880 Charles M. Reed took charge of the home farm and remained there until 1883. He has since operated various large farms in Sangamon County, and has been one of the enterprising and industrious farmers in the vicinity. In 1905 he rented a farm in Loami Township. He has devoted his entire life to agricultural pursuits and has won success through energy and intelligence. He now has in 1910, having

385 acres under his charge, 145 acres in corn, forty in wheat and thirtyfive in oats. He raises pure-bred Duroc Jersey hogs, and now has 75 head of these animals that are eligible to registration. For ten years he bought and shipped hogs. He has the Oxford sheep and believes in keeping the best grade of all kinds of stock.

Mr. Reed and his wife have had children as follows: Linford, born January 8, 1879, a farmer living near Coffeyville, Kan.; Pearl, born September 2, 1883, at home; Blanch, born November 29, 1886, wife of Morris Kessler, manager and superintendent of the light plant at Auburn, and they have one child, Lora Imogene; Ella M., born March 15, 1889, for the past three years one of the most successful teachers in Sangamon County, commands a high salary; Ernest, born August 4, 1891, at home; Edna, born July 19, 1894, a student in Auburn High School; Ida Mary, born September 15, 1896; Helen, born February 25, 1903. Linford Reed was married (first) to Nina Troxwell, who died, leaving one child, Florence E., now living with her Grandfather Reed, and Linford Reed married (second) Miss Bertha Bobe Newman, whose grandfather was one of the noted Methodist Episcopal ministers of early days. z i

Mr. Reed has always taken an active interest in political matters and stanchly supports the principles of the Republican party, being ready to advance any measure he believes will be of benefit to his community. He served five years as Road Commissioner of Chatham, and soon after locating in Loami*Township was chosen as the leader of his party. He was nominated and elected in 1902 to the office of Supervisor on the Republican ticket, receiving a handsome majority against a strong Democratic opponent. During 1907-08 he was one of the strongest members of the Board., In 1909, having secured the entire confidence of the people, received a much larger majority than before. He has served as chairman of the building and printing committee, and in this connection has always lost sight of his personal interests and tastes in his conscientious endeavor to serve the people in the best possible manner. He is a member of the I.

O. O. F., in 1890 joined the M. W. A., and both he and his wife are members of the Royal Neighbors and the Rebekahs. The family are active members of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Loami, and have given generous support to its good work.

REED, Patrick, a retired farmer residing at No. 1954 East Capitol Avenue, Springfield, Ill., has been a resident of Sangamon County for fifty-four years. He was born in County Mayo, Treland, March 17, 1821, a son of Dominick and Mary (Hopkins) Reed. Dominick Reed was also a native of County Mayo, Ireland, and there spent his entire life engaged in farming. His wife, who was a daughter of Thomas Hopkins, also spent her life there and, of their ten children, Patrick was the only one to come to the United States,

Patrick Reed received but a limited education in his native country, going to work at an early age on his father's farm. On February 8, 1854, he was married to Bridget Cassedy, daughter of John and Catherine Cassedy and two years later they came to New York from Liverpool on a sailing vessel, the Ibert Gallatus, which took seven weeks to make the voyage. After his arrival he located for a time near Camden, N. J., where he worked on a farm, his wife doing housework. For thirteen years Mr. Reed worked with the construction gang of the Chicago & Alton R. R., receiving ninety cents a day and having to wait two.years before he was paid. He then moved to Chatham, Ill., where he rented a farm for several years, but by this time his children were old enough to help him, and he subsequently purchased a farm of 240 acres in what is now New Berlin Township, paying down $1,000 and going in debt for $11,000, which he paid in seven years, although his contract allowed him ten years to complete the payment. To accomplish this required close economy, and the raising of large crops, and his success in this line is shown by the fact that, in one year, he sold 10,000 bushels of corn at sixty-eight cents per bushel. In their early days after coming to Springfield, in order to aid her husband, Mrs. Reed took in washing, during a part of this time working for Mrs. Lincoln at $1.25 per day. About 1896 Mr. Reed turned the management of his farm over to his son and moved to his present home in Springfield. He has erected several houses there, in addition to the one which he occupies. He is a stanch Democrat in politics, and he and Mrs. Reed are members of the Roman Catholic Church.

The following children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Reed: Thomas, who married Kate Hefferton; Mary, twin sister of Thomas, married Thomas Solon; Kate, at home; John, married Eliza Scanlan and died in 1904; William, married and lives on the home farm; Dominick, married Ann Carrigan, also resides on the home farm; Frank, married Hannah Carrigan, and resides in Springfield: Annie, married Frank

REES, Hon. Thomas. - Springfield can boast of many men of more than local reputation, and its prominent men are to be found in all lines of business and in the professions. Naturally enough its best known men are those who have held, or are now holding, public office, but most of these have been well known in other capacities before entering political life. Such is the case with the Hon. Thomas Rees, ex-State Senator and publisher of the Illinois State Register, whose reputation in newspaper circles is national. Mr. Rees was born in Pittsburg, Pa., May 13, 1850, son of William and Mary (La- Forge) Rees, and his literary ability is probably inherited from his father, who was a newspaper man and the first man to recognize the literary ability of Samuel L. Clemens ("Mark Twain"), having paid him for the first of his articles, which were published in Mr. Rees' paper in the year 1856.

Thomas Rees was but nine years of age when his father died, and four years later he began to solve the serious problem of making his own way in the world by entering a printing establishment at Keokuk, Iowa. He worked several years at the trade. In 1876, he began business on his own account, forming a partnership with Judge John Gibbons, now of Chicago, George Smith and H. W. Clendenin, which connection was maintained with the latter two, until the death of Mr. Smith in Springfield in 1886. He is still associated with Mr. Clendenin in the publication of the Illinois State Register. The partners purchased the Keokuk "Constitution," and although this had been a losing investment to its former proprietors, it proved a big success in the hands of the new firm, Mr. Rees being the business manager, and in 1881, it was sold at a good profit. In June of the same year the partners purchased the Illinois State Register from the late John M. Palmer, of which Mr. Rees has since been business manager. He is thoroughly familiar with every department, from typesetting and press work to writing and compiling.

For years Mr. Rees has been a member of the Illinois Press Association, of which he was President during 1891 and 1892. He was sent as a delegate from Illinois to the National Editorial. Association conventions in St. Paul, Detroit, Chicago, Galveston, and other places. He is a member of and has served on the Advisory Committee of the Associated Press, and is a_ member of the American Newspaper Publishers Association and other organizations. He is a 32d Degree Mason and is also connected with the Modern Woodmen of America, the Royal Arcanum and the Royal Circle, having held official rank in the two latter - and was for a term Exalted Ruler of the Elks. He has been for many years a member of the Executive Committee County Democratic Committee and has acted as chairman of the City Democratic Committee. In the fall of 1902, he was nominated and elected to the office of State Senator. He was Chairman of the Citizen's Armory Committee that accomplished the building of the State Armory and Arsenal of Springfield, and succeeded in a short time in raising a subscription of $50,000 for purchase of the ground, which was presented to the State by the citizens of Springfield.

During his term as State Senator, Mr. Rees secured to Springfield the erection of the Supreme Court Building, which is considered a most beautiful specimen of architecture, being built on truly classical lines. He secured for the State Board of Agriculture, the enlargement of the machinery hall, the completion of the coliseum buildings, the woman's building, the dairy building, the only permanent cattle building and a number of other permanent improvements on the State Fair grounds. In addition to these items, he also secured the building of the new power plant in connection with the State House, the hospital building at Camp Lincoln, a magnificent school building for the Institution for the Deaf and Dumb at Jacksonville; also, extensive improvements on the buildings and grounds of the Insane Asylum and the State School for Blind at the same place. He introduced and secured the enactment of the law creating the Good Roads Commission of the State of Illinois, which is doing much for the improvement of the highways of the State.

In addition to writing a number of technical papers on the publishing business for editorial conventions, he has been the author of several pieces of work of a more literary nature. Having travelled extensively in nearly every State in the Union and in a number of foreign countries, he has given the readers of. the State Register the benefit of his observations as he traveled, having attained a considerable reputation as a descriptive writer.

In 1906, he made a long trip through Cuba and Mexico and on his return wrote a book of over 400 pages on these very interesting countries, under the title of "Spain's Lost Jewels." In 1908, he made an extensive trip through Europe and wrote a similar book describing the several countries in which he travelled, under the title of "Sixty Days in Europe." Both these books were published by the Illinois State Register Company and have proven quite popular. Mr. Rees has also written a number of selections in verse.

REESE, John H. (deceased), for some years a . resident of Cotton Hill Township, Sangamon County, where he was known as a highly respected and substantial citizen, was a native of North Carolina, born January 9, 1829, a son of Samuel and Mary (Rhodes) Reese, both natives of the same State. The parents became early settlers of Shelby County, Ill., where the father purchased land and engaged in farming. He died there and his wife afterward moved to Dallas, Tex., where she purchased land and there her death occurred about thirty years ago. She had two other sons besides John H. - Joseph and Henry, both of whom remained in South Carolina.

during the remainder of his life. For a number of years he lived on a farm three miles southeast of the place occupied by his widow. Upon his marriage, he lived for a time near Pawnee, Ill., and also owned land southwest of the present home place, which he sold and then purchased sixty acres of land on Section S of Cotton Hill Township, where he lived from 1878 until his death, which occurred on his birthday in 1885. He was a Republican in politics and an active and useful member of the Methodist Church, living an earnest and consistent Christian life. He improved and cultivated that farm and was successful in his operations. It is now owned by his widow.

Mr. Reese was married in Cotton Hill Township, October 10, 1868, to Phoebe Funderburk, daughter of David and Hannah Funderburk, and a native of Sangamon County. Her father served three years in the war of 1812 and came to Sangamon County in 1819 before there was any Springfield, and two years later married Hannah Hinkle. He and his wife had five sons and three daughters and besides Mrs. Reese those living are: Alfred N., David, Sarah (Mrs. Voyles), now living in Jefferson County, Mo., and at present writing ninety years of age. Mrs. Reese has had five children of whom four sons are living: Samuel D., George Washington, Edward G. and William Warren. George W. lives with his mother. Mary Frances died in infancy. Mrs. Reese has nine living grandchildren. She has reared her children to honorable man and womanhood and is much esteemed by her many friends. Besides her home in Cotton Hill Township, Mrs. Reese owns land in the vicinity of Glenarm.

REFINE, Antonio De Frates (deceased). - It is touching to note the care with which so many of Springfield's reliable men provided for their families, so that when death claimed them the loved ones were left in comfortable circumstances. These men were fully alive to the graye responsibilities resting upon their shoulders, and never shirked their duty or put their own comfort first. One of the men deserving of special mention because of his fidelity to duty, was the late Antonio D. Refine, born on the Island of Madeira, in December, 1880, a son of De Frates Refine and Frances (De Frates) Refine. The parents died in Spain, where the father was a truck farmer.

his death. He learned the brick-layer and plasterer trades, and always had plenty of work. He was engaged on a number of the leading buildings put up in Springfield during his residence there. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church, and died sustained by its faith, March 22, 1897, his remains being interred in Oak Ridge Cemetery. In political faith he was a Republican, but never desired office. When his adopted country had need of his services he enlisted August 14, 1862, in the Illinois Volunteer Infantry, serving until 1865, when he was mustered out. When the G. A. R. Post was organized, he joined it in Springfield and continued one of its active members the remainder of his life.

Mr. Refine was married in Springfield, September 22, 1861, to Mary Roderick, born in Port of Spain, in 1848, daughter of Manuel C. and Homaya Roderick, born on the Island of Madeira. Mr. and Mrs. Refine had children as follows: James, born November 17, 1869, is married and resides at No, 1105 East Miller Street; John C., born March 27, 1872, is married and lives at No. 1829 East Adams Street; Laura, born November 11, 1877, married Andrew Leahy, a carpenter, and lives in St. Louis; William L., born September 15, 1883, is unmarried, lives in Quincy, Ill.. where he is a painter; and Daniel is married, living at home with his widowed mother at No. 1101 East Miller Street. Mrs. Refine is a most excellent lady, who is beloved by her family and friends, to whom she has ever been a good neighbor, ready to give sympathy and material help in time of sickness or other trouble.

REGAN, Michael. - Prosperity after years of toil is the reward which has attended a number of the retired farmers now living in Springfield, and it is well deserved, for few men work harder than the agriculturist. One of the men representative of his class is Michael Regan, of No. 417 West Canedy Street, who has resided in Sangamon County for a number of years. He was born in County Mayo, Ireland, January 1, 1837, son of William and Bridget (Duffy) Regan, both natives of that country, who lived and died there.

The educational advantages of this lad were poor, but with customary Irish keenness of intellect, he made the most of them and worked faithfully on his father's farm until he was twenty years old, when he left, sailing from Liverpool for New York City on the sailing vessel, "General McClelland," Captain Trask commanding. After three weeks on the water he landed, with but $2.50 in his pocket. To the ambitious young Irishman, however, this was but of little importance, for he immediately secured work laying brick in Union Hill, N. J., remaining until he had sufficient to come west to Jersey County, Ill., where at Jerseyville he worked several months for $27 'per month. He then went to Menard County to work in a brick yard for a season. In the fall of 1865 he came to Springfield and was a hod carrier and section hand on the Chicago & Alton Railroad for several years. In 1867 he returned to Menard County to resume work in the brick yard for a season, when he rented a farm in Petersburg and remained on it for twelve years. He then rented a farm from J. C. Taylor, at Chatham, for twelve years more, following which he bought 176 acres in New Berlin Township, on which he lived until 1903, when, he retired and moved to Springfield, buying his present home.

On February 138, 1866, Mr. Regan was married to Annie Cassidy, of Springfield, who was born in County Mayo, Ireland, daughter of John and Catherine (Hannan) Cassidy, both natives of County Mayo, Ireland, and both of whom died in Ireland. Mrs. Regan came to America in 1803. She was one of the following children: Michael, of Ireland, who married Catherine Quinn; Nancy, Mrs. John Roddy, of Ireland; Catherine died unmarried; John, of Ireland; Bridget, Mrs. Patrick Reed, of Springfield; Patrick, of Ireland, married Catherine Dooney; Mrs. Regan and Mary, Mrs. Michael Manyan. Mr. and Mrs. Regan became the parents of the following children; Anna, at home; William, a farmer of this county, married Bridget Cody; Thaddeus, of married Nellie Sullivan; Catherine, at home; Mary, Mrs. S. W. Cook, of Fancy Creek Township; and Michael, on the home farm, who married Sarah Patton. Mr. Regan belongs to St. Agnes Catholic Church. He is a stanch Democrat. All through life Mr. Regan has been a hard worker, never shirking any duty, but striving to perform every obligation faithfully and to better his condition.

REID, Archibald (deceased). - Every year the Grim Reaper calls for his own a number of members of the Grand Army of the Republic, thinning the ranks of what was at one time one of the largest organizations the world has ever known, the institution that bound together for all time the boys in blue who had fought side by side through one of the greatest struggles mankind has seen. Each year finds its ranks growing thinner, and for that reason if no other we should honor and respect the veterans while they are with us to remind us of the nation's great struggle to free the slave and uphold the Union. The late Archibald Reid, who was a retired stationary engineer and veteran of the Civil War, and who lived at No. 1146 North Fourth Street, Springfield, was born three miles from Edinburgh, Scotland, November 21, 1834, son of Walter and Jean (Stuart) Reid, and a descendant of the royal family in Scotland. His father was a miner and mine contractor, furnishing horses and mules for mine work, and both he and his wife died in Scotland.

years of age he had charge of a hoisting engine, which he operated until leaving for the United States in 1854. He sailed from Liverpool to New York, whence he went to Pottsville, Pa., where one of his brothers, Thomas, had charge of a junction shaft. He worked there in the mines for a few years, at the end of which time he and a brother engaged in the grocery business in Springfield, but later operated the Co-Operative engine for two years and then took charge of the engine at the old North Shaft. He enlisted at Alton, Il., in 1864, in Company G, One Hundred Thirtythird Regiment, Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and after receiving his honorable discharge went to Florida, but eventually returned to Springfield, where he has resided ever since. He was formerly a member of the Baptist Church, and his politics are those of the Republican party.

On April 26, 1860, Mr. Reid was united in marriage with Miss Hannah Jones, a native of Wales. In 1873 Mr. Reid and his wife moved to New Athens, Ill., where he was superintendent of mines, and during their stay there they adopted a little girl about six weeks old, -naming her Ella May. She married William Worthington, of Springfield, by whom she has had two children, Isabelle and Edward Bruce.

REID, William Brown, chief engineer in the Supreme Court Building at Springfield, T., comes of an old Scotch family in which the men for generations back have been connected with-mechanics, and both his father and grandfather were experienced miners. He was born at Silver Creek, Schuylkill County, Pa., September 15, 1857, and is a son of Thomas and Maymie (Brown) Reid, and a grandson of Walter Reid, who returned 'to Scotland and died in his native land.

Thomas Reid was born in Dalkeith, Scotland. He came to the United States before his marriage and worked as a miner for a number of years in the Schuylkill coal regions in Penn- Sylvania, then came to Illinois and worked in Morgan County until 1867, when he came to Springfield. He was superintendent of the old Loose Mine and later had charge of the Wabash Coal Company mine at Athens. He died at Springfield, when fifty-nine years old, May 28, 1892. He was survived by five children: William Brown, Walter, Mrs. Henry Kusswall, Jennie and Minnie.

William Brown Reid was quite small when his parents came to Illinois, where he attended the public schools until he was fifteen year's of age, at which time he became a clerk for ©. M. Smith, in his grocery store, where he remained for four years, then accepted a position at the Illinois Watch Company, remaining five years. For one year afterward he was a fireman on the Wabash railroad and for three more years operated a stationary engine at a coal shaft. Mr. Reid then traveled fifteen years in all parts of the United States as an erecting engineer for the Ide & Sons Engine

Works, and for seven years was chief engineer for the Springfield electric plant, one year for the water works and in 1909 accepted his present position.

Mr. Reid was married September 13, 1895, to Miss Lizzie Morris, of Springfield, a daughter of the late George Morris, and they have six children: Charles F., Janetta M., Jessie, Gladys, Willa Dorothy and Margaret Ann. Mr.

Reid and family attend the Second Presbyterian Church. He is a Republican in his political views and fraternally he is prominent in Masonry, having attained the thirtysecond Degree, and is a Knight Templar and a Shriner. He belongs also to the Knights of Pythias, in which he is Past Chancellor, and to the Woodmen, in which he is Past Venerable Counselor.

REILLY, Thomas W., proprietor of a grocery store at 480 West Hay Street, Springfield, is a native of the city, born October 19, 1888. He is a son of Michael and Ellen (Connors) Reilly, both natives of County Waterford, Ireland, and the father died in 1907. They were parents of seven children, four of whom now survive: Annie; Nellie, wife of John McFall, of Springfield; James, Thomas W. Michael. Reilly came to the United States in 1871 and spent some years working in a foundry in Boston. He came to Springfield in 1881 and his widow still resides there. He was a strong Democrat and a member of the Hibernian Society and the Modern Woodmen of America. He was a member of St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church, but usually attended the Church of the Immaculate Conception, at Seventh and Monroe Streets, of whose pastor, Father Hickey, he was a warm admirer and friend.

Until fourteen years of age Thomas W. Reilly attended St. Joseph's parochial school, then went to work in a brick yard. Two years later he began driving a grocery wagon, at which occupation he worked two and one-half years, then for nine years worked in the coal mines. He has been engaged in his present business since 1907 and has succeeded in building up a good trade. His honesty and integrity are unquestioned and he endeavors to meet the requirements of his customers in the line of groceries and provisions he carries. He is well known in his part of the city and has a good standing in the community.

August 24, 1904, Mr. Reilly married Stella Hurt, also a native of Springfield, born July 10, 1872, and daughter of Laterfield and Mollie (Wehrle) Hurt, natives of Germany. Mr. Hurt is retired from active life and resides in Springfield, and Mrs. Hurt is deceased. Three children have blessed the union of Mr. Rellly and wife, namely: Stella, born May 28, 1906; Ursula, June 10, 1908; Edith, December 21, 1910. Mr. Reilly is a Democrat in politics and was a candidate for the office of Commissioner in the primaries of February 28, 1911. He attends St. Joseph's Catholic Church and is

REISCH, Franz Sales (deceased). - In all parts of Illinois are to be found German-Americans who have impressed their personalities on the history of the communities in which they have lived. Their sturdy honesty, their ambition to make the most of their opportunities for advancement, and their interest in the cause of progress, are qualities which made them valuable citizens. Among the citizens of Springfield, who have contributed much to the de. velopment of the resources of the city and vicinity, was Franz Sales Reisch, who has been dead many years, but his influence is easily discernible in the results of his activities. He is well remembered by all who had dealings with him, in a business or social way, and his presence was missed in many circles of the city for many years. He left a record of which his family and friends have been justly proud, and his success in life was a gratification to his many warm personal friends.

Mr. Reisch was born in the Grand Duchy of Baden, on the Rhine, January 24, 1808. He was of the peasant class, and his father's occupation was that of a butcher. Mr. Reisch was one of five children, three boys and two girls.

Franz S. Reisch received a limited education, and at the age of seventeen years became apprentice to a cooper in the village of Schletstadt, across the Rhine from his home, in Alsace, France. After spending three years learning his trade Mr. Reisch worked three years as journeyman, At the age of twenty-four years, he decided to seek larger opportunities to better his condition in life, and emigrated to the United States. He first located in Kentucky, later removed to Indiana, and after living in that State a short time, moved in 1833, to Beardstown on the Illinois River, where he followed his trade successfully four years. Mr. Reisch then returned to his native country for his wife, having been engaged to be married to Miss Susan Maurer, a farmer's daughter, born pear his own birthplace. They were married and spent their honeymoon traveling to their new home in Beardstown, where Mr. Reisch established a shop of his own. By diligent work and economy he saved money enough to purchase, in 1840, land on Richland Creek, Sangamon County. After locating on his farm, he continued to manufacture barrels, delivering them by wagon to Beardstown, Springfield and St. Louis. He later sold this farm and purchased Jand eight miles from Springfield. He was a successful farmer and business man, and saved enough to engage in mercantile business, in 1846, in which he continued four years.

In 1850 Mr. Reisch moved his family to Springfield, having the previous year established a small brewery with a capacity of 150 barrels annually, and in this enterprise was so success- ful that he was soon able to produce 400 barrels a year. He had been associated with another in business but purchased the interest of his partner and carried on the brewery alone for some time. He also had a mercantile establishment and retained his farm. In 1854, on account of a temperance wave which swept over the country, he leased his brewery and engaged in manufacturing brick, still carrying on his grocery store, having a partner in the latter business. In 1858 Mr. Reisch resumed his management of the brewery, and started to build up the business anew, and about this time the grocer with whom he had been associated in business was admitted to partnership in the brewery, but in 1862, Mr. Reisch became sole owner again. In 18638, he admitted his son Frank to partnership and in 1868, the enterprise had grown to such an extent that they erected an immense brewing plant, which was the most extensive in the city. This enterprise has become one of the largest in Sangamon County, and its present output is 100,000 barrels per annum. The machinery has been added to and replaced from time to time, until the latest improved appliances have come into use in all parts of the immense plant, comprising five large buildings.

In 1875 Mr. Reisch was superintending the construction of an addition to the brewing plant when he fell from the partly completed building, was fatally injured, and died a few hours later. He left a widow and seven children to mourn his loss. Mr. Reisch and wife had a happy married life of thirty-eight years, and to them were born children as follows: Frank, died in 1896; Elizabeth, wife of Gustave A. Ensenberger; Joseph, Vice President of Reisch Brewing Company; Leonard, a dry-goods merchant; George, a biography of whom appears in this work. Mrs. Reisch died in 1901. She and her husband were both devout Catholics, and no matter how inclement the weather might be, Mrs. Reisch attended mass every Sunday, unless prevented by serious illness, and frequently attended church week days, as well. The family was prominent socially and delighted to entertain their many friends and acquaintances.

Mr. Reisch rose to a position of wealth and prominence through his sheer determination and unswerving purpose to succeed, coming to the United States a poor young man, beginning in a humble way in his struggle and moving slowly at first on his upward way. However. his ability and high courage could not help but advance him in position and power, and his achievements were but the natural outcome of his efforts, aided by the fact that he lived in the midst of large opportunities and knew how to take advantage of them. He delighted to provide his family with the good things of life, was most devoted to them all, and was always solicitous for their comfort. In his business relations he was most upright and conscientious, never breaking an engagement or a promise, and fulfilling the -spirit as well as the letter of all obligations. He was most generous in his contributions to the needs of those who were unfortunate and needy, and gave his support to every worthy cause which came to his notice. He was a man who was most faithful and his high sense of right was one of his distinguishing characteristics. In politics Mr. Reisch was a Democrat, though he never cared for public office.

REISCH, George. - The Reisch family has been prominent in the annals of Springfield, IN., and vicinity for more than half a century, and the name has always stood for progress and public enterprise. They have been most active in securing public improvements, in forwarding the erection of public buildings and developing the resources of the community. They have been instrumental in securing the location of factories in Springfield and have helped to build up many private enterprises. Hardly a church of any denomination has been erected in Springfield for fifty years but has been materially aided by their generosity. One of the most prominent representatives of the family in the business circles of Springfield today is George Reisch, President of Reisch Brewing Company, which was established by his father in 1849. Mr. Reisch is a native of Sangamon County, born January 3, 1846, son of Frank and Susanna (Maurer) Reisch, both born in Baden, Germany, the father January 24, 1808, and the mother February 11, 1817. Frank Reisch, who was a brewer, came to the United States in 1832, spent about a year in New Orleans, came thence to Cincinnati, Ohio, and later located in Springfield, where he remained until his death in 1875. He and his wife had thirteen children, seven of whom grew to maturity, namely: Frank married Anna Hammon and died, leaying a widow and four children - Christina, wife of Charles Meyer, of Springfield; Susanna (unmarried), Mary (wife of Joseph Zimmerman), and Frank, Jr. (Secretary and Treasurer of the Reisch Brewing Company), Mary, wife of Leonard Mattias, one child - Theresa; George; Elizabeth married Gustave A. HWnsenberger, a furniture dealer of Bloomington, Ill., three children - F rank, Gustave and Joseph; Joseph married Mary Stehlin, who died, leaving two children - Albert and Marie, and he is first Vice President of the Reisch Brewing Company ; Susie is a nun in the Franciscan Convent, in New York; Leonard, retired, was formerly a member of the dry goods firm of Reisch & Thoma, of Springfield, married a Miss Halliday and they have one child, Linette.

At the age of sixteen years George Reisch had graduated from the common school in Springfield and began to assist his father in the brewery and his brother Frank was ad- . mitted to partnership with his father. On May 1, 1875, F. Reisch & Brothers succeeded E: Reisch & Son, and in 1903, the Reisch Brewing Company was incorporated. The business Was expanded very much and the firm is well known throughout the central part of the State. The annual output of the plant is 100,000 barrels, the firm occupies five large buildings, and the most modern and best improved machinery is used in manufacturing the product. The most sanitary conditions are always observed. George Reisch has carried out the policy of his father and his brother Frank in most features of the work and is one of the ablest business men of the city. His business dealings have been characterized by the utmost fairness and uprightness, and the reputation of the firm is of the best. In his able administration of the affairs of the large enterprise of which he is the head, he has shown that he has all the details of the business in hand,

Mr. Reisch has been identified with many public enterprises and has always given his Support to every measure he considers to be of interest or benefit to the public. He served four years on the Park Board of the city and was Alderman one term. Fraternally he is connected with the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks, the Sangamo Club, the Chamber of Commerce, the Men's Club, Western Catholic Union, and many other societies of Springfield, besides the Illinois State and National Brewers' Association. He has always been a Democrat, but has taken bo very active part in political affairs. He is a member of SS. Peter and Paul's Catholic Church of Springfield. Mr. Reisch inherits to a large degree the ambition and energy of his father, who was a self-made man, landing in America with almost nothing and building up a large business. He is an active worker for any cause in which he is interested and may be counted on for contributing his share in forwarding any movement which has his approval.

On October 10, 1878, Mr. Reisch was married at Springfield to Miss Mary Spitly, who was born in Logan County, Ill., February 14, 1859, daughter of Martin and Minnie (Frank) Spitly, the former a native of Bavaria and the latter of Baden, Germany. The former was a farmer by occupation and was for many years proprietor of the Spitly House at Lincoln, Ill. Mr. and Mrs. Reisch became parents of six sons and four daughters, namely: Mrs. Minnie S. Franz, whose husband is a packer of Springfield; Eda M., married Dr. Archauer, of Springfield; George F., in business with his father, is married and living in Springfield; Carl M., unmarried, a graduate of the Law department of the university at Ann Arbor, Mich., and now general manager of the Reisch Indemnity Company; Clara, Christine, Louis Edward, Joseph and Walter, living at home with their parents. The family are prominent in social circles and live in the home which formerly belonged to Mr. Reisch's father, which has been occupied by the family for the past sixty years. Mr. Reisch also owns considerable other property in Springfield and elsewhere, including 4,000 acres in Nebraska, and some Chicago realty.

RENNE, Thomas P. - The majority of the soldiers who won victory for the North were young in point of years, although old in patriotism and buoyed up by enthusiasm. Some were not more than lads, others had barely attained their majority, and all were brave and daring, ready to risk life and limb in defense of flag and country. Thomas P. Renne, of Springfield, now residing at No. 205 West North Grand Avenue, served a short time during the early part of the war. He was born in Clinton County, Ill., October 10, 1840, being a son of James S. and Parthenia (Powers) Renne, natives of Pittsfield, Mass., and Arkansas. The father, a carpenter, moved from Clinton County to Ogle County, living there three years and working as a carpenter. He then moved to Sangamon County, where he followed his trade until his death. His home was west of Springfield, and there the mother also died. 'The father was a guard on the frontier during the Black Hawk War, serving for seven years. The Renne family is of French and Scotch descent, and Mr. Renne inherits the good traits of both nations. He belonged to a family of eleven children, seven sons and four daughters, only three of whom now survive.

Mr. Renne went to school in Clinton County and Springfield, attending the old First Ward School in that city. This was the first school building in Springfield. During his boyhood days he worked on a farm, but when he was twenty-one years old, began learning the trade of a brick mason, and has followed it ever since. For twelve years he was employed by Springfield Iron Works in brick-laying parts of their contracts. The last few years he has been engaged in a contracting business. During the period he has been engaged at his trade, Mr. Renne has been employed on many public buildings, as he is regarded as a skilled workman. He enlisted in Company M, Seventh Regiment, Illinois Volunteer Infantry, for a ninety days' service, but at the end of thirty days was relieved from service on account of a gunshot wound.

On January 31, 1867, Mr. Renne was married to Emma Bonney, born near Berlin, Sangamon County, daughter of Benjamin and Eunice (Sikes) Bonney, who came from Springfield, Mass., to Springfield, Ill., and there the father died, August 22, 1865, the mother surviving him, and moving to Kansas City, Kan., where she passed away August 20, 1898. Mrs. Renne belonged to a family of three sons and two daughters, three of whom are now living: Mrs. Renne; Frank; and Mrs. Mary H. Palmer, of Kansas City, Kan. Mr. and Mrs. Renne have had three sons and one daughter, two of whom survive: Allen B. was accidentally killed by an automobile near Chicago, April 26, 1909, having been a merchant of Pontiac, Ill.; Charles B. died in infancy; Vernon W., of Chicago; Bertha M., at home. There are three granddaughters and one grandson in the family. Mr. Renne owns his home, where he has lived for thirty-six years, and takes great pride in it and his surroundings. He is one of the solid, substantial men of the city, and one in whom implicit trust can be placed.

RENSHAW, George M., a farmer, stock-raiser and breeder of Duroc-Jersey hogs, has made his farm on Section 26, Cartwright Township, one of the show places of the county. He was born in a log house on his present farm, August 7, 1839, being a son of Wiley P. and Martha (Nesbett) Renshaw, the former born

November 7, 1800, near Salisbury, Ga., and the latter born near Lexington, Ky., November 8, 1794. They were married in Bond County, Ill., (both families having come to this State in early days), December 31, 1818, and in 1821 came to Sangamon County. On February 26 of that year, they entered' land from the government, their deeds being signed by John Quincy Adams, and written on sheep skin. Six of the seven children in the family came into the world, in the little rude log cabin on this farm. The eldest, Jane, was born in Bond County, in 1819, and died in Sangamon County, aged eighty-two years, in 1901; Mary A., the next child, became the wife of S. Q. Harrison, now deceased, and resides with a daughter, Mary Gardner; Margaret married F. Butler, but both are now deceased; James N. died at the age of twenty-five years; Barbara, widow of A. M. Houghton, resides on a farm in Menard County, Ill.; John S. resides in Springfield; William P. died in 1852; George M. The family comes of Scotch ancestry, the grandfather, Elijah Renshaw having come from Scotland, and he served in the Revolutionary War as an officer. His death occurred in Bond County, IJ. His widow came to Sangamon County with her son, Wiley P., to take up land, and died upon it about 1848. Wiley P. Renshaw was only eighteen when he married, while his wife was but fourteen. He educated himself after his marriage, and was always a student. When the Black Hawk War broke out he was commissioned First Lieutenant by Governor John Reynolds, in the Thirty-first Illinois State Militia, on August 22, 1833, at Vandalia. Before his regiment was called out the war was over. He was a man of sound judgment and held closely to the principles of the Whig party. When he died, in the fall of 1852, he was missed from many circles. His widow survived him many years, passing away in 1885. Mr. Renshaw was one of the first to breed short-horn cattle in central Illinois, and did much to improve the stock, believing that blood would tell, and he was rewarded for his work by receiving the highest prices for his cattle. The Methodist Church held his membership and he was a true, Christian man. He never turned anyone away empty-handed, but gave freely of his means and time to help others. He and his wife ministered to the sick and afflicted, and were always sought out in times of trouble.

Before the church was built services were held in his house, and he always entertained the ministers. His fine library was at the disposal of all who needed its use.

George H. Renshaw was educated in the Harrison District school and early worked on the farm, beginning so early that the plow handles often bumped him, and he was so small that he could not be seen behind the plow. He continued to help his father until his marriage, which occurred November 22, 1866, when he was united with Matilda Parker, born in Robinson County, September 25, 1840, coming to Illinois with her parents, in 1852. They settled in Sangamon County, but later bought land in Menard County, Ill. There they remained for a time, then sold out, coming back to Sangamon County, where both parents died. Mrs. Renshaw has two brothers living, Charles and Richard.

Mr. and Mrs. Renshaw settled on the farm where he was born, and there his children were also born, they being: Georgia Etta, wife of W. A. McNeal, a farmer of Minnesota, issue - Elmer, Guy, Ernest and Bert; Wiley P., born April 28, 1879, operating the farm with his father; Jessie Elizabeth, born July 11, 1880, mentioned below; Arthur B., born July 17, 1888, is also assisting on the farm. Mrs. Renshaw died September, 27, 1910, aged seventy years and two days. She was one of the active members of the Methodist Church, and a true, noble-hearted, Christian woman. Kind of heart and gentle of manner, she was loved by all who knew her. During the early days she never complained of hardships, but nobly bore her share, and gave her life to the care of her husband and children. Yet in spite of her many home duties, no one in distress ever found her lacking with sympathy and material help. Since her demise Miss Jessie has bravely shouldered the responsibilities of the household and is trying to make her father and brothers comfortable. She is a charming young lady, a fine housekeeper and possessed of those characteristics which make women loved by their families.

Mr. Renshaw has witnessed many changes in the county. His farm contains 170 acres, a part of the farm entered from the Government by his father. He inherits the latter's good judgment with reference to stock and has been very successful in breeding. He makes a specialty of Duroc-Jersey hogs, carrying about 150 head of swine at all times. His stock is registered and of standard breed. Like many of those who have passed through pioneer days, he looks back to those times with regret. Forgetting the discomforts he remembers the merry times when the little log eabin rang with gay laughter and hungry boys and girls deyoured the food set before them. His father was among the first to bring a threshing machine into the county, and he remembers well the excitement over it, although now that old

Mr. Renshaw is a Republican, casting his first presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln, in 1860, He is still a subscriber to the Illinois State Journal, for many years published by Paul Selby, editor of this work for the Munsell Publishing Co. of Chicago, to which Mr. Renshaw's father also was a subscriber. He has never sought public office, preferring to devote his time to his private affairs. However, he has always been ready to lend his influence towards securing good government and improvement of existing conditions. For many years he has been a member of the Methodist Church, but Miss Jessie and Benjamin belong to the Baptist Church.

RHEA, Edwin L. - The agricultural interests of Sangamon County are represented by men whose progressive ideas and advanced methods have placed them in the front ranks, and among them one who has already attained an enviable success is Edwin L. Rhea, residing on Section 24, New Berlin Township. He was born in Island Grove Township, April 3, 1868, being a son of Stephen Edwin Rhea, a complete history of whom appears elsewhere in this work. Mr. Rhea grew up on the homestead, attending district school and the schools of New Berlin. Following his inclinations, Mr. Rhea has devoted himself to farming, taking charge of his father's property of 125 acres of highly cultivated land. He has just rebuilt his barns, including a fine dairy barn, having entered the dairy business in 1901. His Jersey cows are of the highest breed obtainable and he now has a herd of thirty-five head, selling his product at Jacksonville, where he received the highest market prices. He has disposed of dairy interests and kept only his Jersey cattle. He has also made a specialty of breeding the Duroc Jersey hogs, shipping about 100 head per year. These, too, net him the highest prices, owing to their superior quality. His dairy barn is one of the finest in central Illinois, holding thirty head of cattle, with eighteen milking stations. He has many improved appliances for caring for the milk and is constantly buying new contrivances, for he is a man who believes in progressing. His machinery is operated by an eight-horse-power gas engine, and he takes great pride in his equipment. His Percheron horses command a ready sale, for his stock is all registered.

For forty-two years Mr. Rhea has been identified with the best agricultural interests of this county, and he is regarded as an authority on everything pertaining to farming or stockraising. His specialties have been Jersey cattle and Duroc-Jersey hogs, and he has shown what can be done with these breeds.

The marriage of Mr. Rhea took place on February 1, 1893, when he was united with Edith Hart, born December 13, 1872, in Morgan County, Ill., daughter of Louis and Jane (Donahue) Hart, natives of Vermont and Morgan County, Ill. Both survive, living on a farm near Waverly. They were among the pioneers of Mor- gan County and the grandfather conducted one of the first taverns, at which stage coach horses were changed in the long trips made across that County. Mrs. Rhea is one of two children born to her parents, but the other, a brother, Milton, died at the age of seventeen years. Mr. Rhea was his parents' only child. Mr. and Mrs. Rhea have had children as follows: Julia, born June 1, 1895; Louisa, born March 6, 1899; Edwin L., born April 24, 1902; and Margaret, born August 28, 1904.

Mrs. Rhea is an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, while Mr. Rhea is connected with the Baptist denomination. Both of them belong to the Court of Honor, while he belongs to the Odd Fellows of New Berlin and has been a member of the Modern Woodmen of America twenty-three years. His political views make him a Democrat, and he has been active in the good work of that party. Being strongly in favor of temperance, he played an important part in the crusade of 1908. In addition to his farming interests, Mr. Rhea has found time to invent a refrigeration of cans, by means of which milk can be shipped in perfect safety. Kindly, energetic, a good business man and a far-sighted farmer, Mr. Rhea is a man, of whom his county may well be proud. He has accomplished much in his life, and is looking forwards to doing much more, for he is in the very prime of manhood and progressive to the utmost. Both he and his wife are popular socially and welcome their many friends to their pleasant home upon the farm where he was born.

RHEA, Stephen Edwin, who owns an excellent property in Island Grove Township which he devotes to farming, is one of the old and honored residents of that part of Sangamon County and a son of one of the first settlers there. He was born November 4, 1848, in a log cabin in Island Grove Township, a son of John Rhea.

James Rhea, the grandfather of Stephen E. Rhea, was a native of Barren County, Ky., where he was married to Rachel Jolloff, and came to Illinois prior to the great snow which began falling December 28, 1830, killing man and beast alike. Some of the pioneers attempted to drive their hogs and other live-stock to St. Louis to provide shelter for them, and but few of these were saved, one pioneer losing his entire drove of 500 animals. James Rhea had settled first in Jefferson County about 1820 or '21 and engaged in farming government land, but later took up freighting and made a trip to Galena. Returning through central Illinois, he was so impressed with the possibilities of Sangamon County that on his return home he gave his Jefferson County land to his eldest son and came to Sangamon. This son, who was a soldier during the Black Hawk War, died of sickness contracted during his service, and his sword and shoulder straps are now in the possession of Stephen E. Rhea. James Rhea came to Sangamon County in time to be one of those who suffered during the great storm, but with true pioneer grit started all over again, and built a log cabin of hewn logs on his new property in Island Grove Township. This log cabin boasted a huge fire-place in its north end and doors on the east and west sides, and the logs for the fire were hauled right into the cabin by an old ox named Buck. Greased paper formed the means by which light was admitted to the cabin, which was one and one-half stories high and the finest in the section at that time. Mr. Rhea used pioneer methods in farming his land, but Was a faithful, energetic worker, becoming successful and possessed of much property. A faithful member of the Baptist Church, he was ever charitably and hospitably inclined, and in his death Sangamon County lost one of its noble pioneers, who was extensively mourned. During the War of 1812 he served under Admiral Perry on the Great Lakes. Mr. Rhea was the father of these children: James, Richard, William, John, Thomas, Mrs. Mary Ausbury and Mrs. Nancy Foutch.

John Rhea, father of Stephen E. Rhea, was born: July 14, 1811, and was married November 14, 1839, to Julia Starks, who was born June 21, 1823. They had these children: James B., of Midland, Tex.; Stephen H.; Mary Ann, deceased, who was the wife of John F. Wilcox, of Arizona; Thomas, a farmer in Fremont County, Iowa; John H. and Abigail, who died in infancy; and Martha E., widow of J. R. Smith, of Polk County, Mo. John Rhea was born in Barren County, Ky., whence he accompanied his parents to Illinois at an early day, becoming one of the leading men of Sangamon County and a leader in the Baptist Church, which was organized in his father's house, and of which he was the first clerk. Mr. Rhea was a great Bible student and an authority on all matters pertaining to the church, his advice naturally being much sought. Mr. Rhea died June 19, 1888, his wife having passed to her rest April 23, 1879.

Stephen Edwin Rhea was born in the original log cabin on the Rhea homestead, but when he was still a small boy his father erected a more commodious abode. He well remembers the trials and tribulations of pioneer days, as he was rocked in a cradle made of a hollowed log, worked as a lad at the hard, unremitting toil of the sugar camp, and was compelled to use a second-hand corn dropper, by which he was supposed to drop straight, like the present check row drops so that the corn may be ploughed both ways, an invention then undreamed of. His education was secured in the district schools of his day and he was reared to the life of a farmer, remaining at home until he was twenty-one years old. He was married November 2, 1865, to Lucy A. Wilcox, who was born March 9, 1846, in Island Grove Township, a daughter of Joshua and Matilda (Carruthers) Wilcox, early pioneers of Illinois, who now lie buried in the Moore burial ground. One child was born to Mr. and Mrs, Rhea, Ed- win L., a sketch of whose life will be found in another part of this work. After marriage Mr, and Mrs. Rhea spent four years in Iowa, and at the end of that time returned to the old homestead, of which he took charge. Eventually he purchased the interest of the other heirs of the property, which he has since developed into one of the finest farms in his part of Sangamon County. Mr. Rhea united with the Baptist Church when fifteen years of age and his wife joined that denomination after their marriage. Fraternally he is a Mason, having joined that organization when about twentytwo years old, and he is also a member of New Berlin Camp of Modern Woodmen. He is a Democrat in politics, but of late years has been giving his vote to the man whom he thinks best qualified to fill the office, and he has always been a foe to liquor interests. For two years he represented Berlin Township on the Board of Supervisors, and on two different occasions has been foreman of the Sangamon County Grand Jury.

Personally Mr. Rhea is a pleasant, sociable gentleman, and his strict integrity in all walks of life have gained the confidence of all who have come into contact with him, while his fund of experience and reminiscence of early days in the county make him an excellent companion.

RHODES, Clarence M - Sangamon County, TIl., has the reputation of turning out good men young. The citizens of the county, and especially of Springfield, are quick to recognize a good man and to gauge his true worth, and they made no mistake when they chose Clarence M. Rhodes to take up the heavy responsibilities incidental to the office of Coroner. Mr. Rhodes is a native of the county, born at Rochester, December 1, 1872, a son of W. H. and Mary Rhodes. h

The education of Mr. Rhodes was secured in the public schools of Sangamon County, and until the last four years, he resided on a farm. He served for three years as Assessor of Salisbury Township, and from 1906, until 1908, served as Riding Deputy Sheriff under Sheriff Charles Werner. In 1908, he was nominated by the Democratic party for the office of Coroner. of Sangamon County and the majority he received at the ensuing election, proved his popularity. He is a faithful, conscientious publie official and in every capacity in which he has served has proven himself the right man for the place. Although' his political career has just begun, he has shown the people that he can be relied upon to perform his duties fully and ably, and just as the people are quick to recognize and appreciate a good man, just so are they loath to let a good man go. Mr. Rhodes does not need to fully rely upon his friends in the Democratic organization, for he is one of those rare politicians who have friends in every party. He belongs to the Masons, the Woodmen, Redmen and the Independent Order of

Odd Fellows, in all of which he is immensely popular, and he can depend upon the stanch friendship and support of the majority of the members of the fifty-three labor organizations throughout the county. He is the owner of valuable farming property in Sangamon County and in Texas.

In 1897 Mr. Rhodes married Ethel Hodgen, at Petersburg, Ill., and they have one son, Glenn. The family residence is at No. 209 North State Street.

RICH, Benjamin. - Perhaps no country has contributed more generously to the best citizenship of the United States than has England. Certainly no higher type can be found in the country than representatives of that older civilization, those sturdy, substantial qualities are shown in their reverence for the law, the founding of homes, their enlightened attitude toward education, their support of religion and their almost universal acquirement of financial independence,

Benjamin Rich, the present Recorder of Sangamon County, Ill., was born at Trowbridge, Wiltshire, England, March 18, 1854. His parents were John and Eliza (Bush) Rich, natives of England, where the former was engaged in farming. In 1861 the father brought his family to America and they settled at Johnstown, Pa., whence they came to Springfield in 1873.

The first seven years of Benjamin Rich's life were spent in his native land, where he began his education, enjoying good advantages for securing an education after the family located at Johnstown. When the family located in Springfield the young man began working in the rolling mills, where he remained until 1882, then engaged in dairy business, which he continued until 1896, when he was first nominated for his present office. He was elected in the fall of that year and has been re-elected three times since, so that he is now serving his fourth term. An ardent Republican, he has pulled through these successive elections, while the bulk of his ticket has been defeated in most of them. He is a warm friend of organized labor and carries a large vote among the laboring classes. The people fully realze that he has given them most faithful service and, following the general rule which is an admirable feature of Sangamon County politics, they have rewarded him by retaining him in office, so that the prospects are that Mr. Rich may confidently expect to be renominated and elected to his present office in 1912. He filled several public offices before assuming his present one, as he served five successive years as President of the Village Board of Ridgely, two years as Tax Collector of Springfield Township, four years as Supervisor of Springfield Township (being Chairman of the County Board one year), and also as a member of the board of School Disstrict No, 48, at Ridgely. Though his life has been a busy one, he has found time to give considerable time and attention to the educational needs of his community. He is considered a most efficient public official and is correspondingly popular. Personally Mr. Rich possesses those sterling qualities and courteous manners which attract and cement friendship.

Mr. Rich was married in November, 1878, at Springfield, TIl., to Miss Annie Mowrey, a daughter of Isaac Mowery, who formerly was a resident of Johnstown, Pa. To this union six children have been born, two sons and four daughters, namely: Florence A., Alice, Lulu,

Mollie, Benjamin and Ray. Mr. Rich has prospered in his private undertakings through his good judgment and business foresight. He has acquired some valuable property, part of it in Sangamon County, and also owns some land in Texas and North Dakota. He is a Director of

RICHARD, Frank, was born in Germany, in April, 1828. His parents spent their entire lives in Germany, where the father carried on farming in a small way, but was not able to do much for his children in the way of starting

In 1853 Frank Richard left Germany, and by slow means finally reached the United States. Being equipped with his trade, for which there is always a demand, he easily found work at the bench. He landed at the port of New York and from there came directly to Springfield and has lived in this section ever since. He worked at his trade until his health failed, then turned his attention to farming, his wife owning an excellent farm on the outskirts of the city, and he has also done considerable gardening.

At Springfield, Ill., on December 15, 1857, Mr. Richard was married to Miss Catherine Schwartz, who was born in Lauderback, Germany, March 26, 1834, a daughter of Michael and Margaret Schwartz. Her parents spent their entire lives in Germany, Mrs. Richard being brought to America when young by her uncle, Conrad Locke. The latter was a shoemaker by trade. Mrs. Richard was the youngest of her parents' family. Mr. and Mrs. Richard have had nine children and have sixteen grandchildren. The oldest daughter, Mary, is the wife of Martin Schimmitz, and they live at Springfield; Mrs. Amelia Casey also is a resident of Springfield; Frank; Elizabeth, wife of Thos. Taylor, living on the old farm, having bought the same; August, Louis, Katherine, J ulia and Sophia are:all deceased. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Richard who reached maturity all married and established homes of their own, and in addition to the sixteen grandchildren who have been taught according to the good old German way, to give obedience and respect to their grandparents, there are two great-grandchildren. Mr. Richard is a member of the Roman Catholic Church, but Mrs. Richard belongs to the German Lutheran Church, of Springfield,