Sangamon County, Illinois - The whole text, 1912 (part 44 of 46)

Mr. and Mrs. White have two children: Mary E. and Sadie A., both of whom have been carefully educated, the latter having graduated from the Berlin High School in the Class of 1910. Mr. White is a member of the Odd Fellows, of New Berlin, and also of the Modern Woodmen of America. He and his wife are prominent in the Presbyterian Church, of Bates, Ill., in which they hold membership.

WHITE, Enoch P., a prominent citizen of Springfield, Il., is a native of Sangamon County, where his entire life has been spent, and is well known as a veteran of the Civil War. He was born in Ball Township July 25, 1840, a son of Eli L. and Sarah (Megredy) White, both natives of Maryland, the father born near Port Deposit, in 1789, and the mother born in 1802. Eli L. White was a blacksmith by trade and also worked at farming and carriage making. He came to Illinois in 1888 and settled on ninety-five acres of land in Ball Township, Sangamon County, and later accumulated 600 acres of Jand, 245 acres of it in Ball Township and the remainder in the southern part of the county. He remained on the farm until his death, which occurred in 1850. His wife died in 1863. Four children were born to them, namely: John M. died at Decatur, Ill., in 1910; Daniel died at a tender age; Enoch P.; William M., a wealthy retired farmer living at Appleton City, Mo. The father of Eli L. White was a wealthy farmer in England, the country of his birth, and after coming to America accumulated a large tract of land on the shores of Maryland and also considerable property in the city of Baltimore, and his grandson, Enoch P., is one of the heirs to the same.

Mr. White was educated in the Harmon School, an old log building in Ball Township, and remained on his father's farm until he was of age, then enlisted in August, 1862, in Company B One Hundred Thirtieth Illinois Infantry, in which he was serving when he participated in three battles: Black River, Champion Hills and Vicksburg. He was discharged on account of disability, at Camp Butler, Tl., in October, 1864. Then, returning to Ball Township, he resumed farming and continued successfully in that occupation until 1905, when he retired and moved to Springfield. He occupies a comfortable home at 1058 Elliott Avenue, Springfield. He has been an industrious and ambitious farmer and has well earned the ease he now enjoys.

Mr. White was married at Woodside, Ill., September 11, 1861, to Martha A. Renshaw, Rev. Miller, of the Baptist Church, officiating. Miss Renshaw was born in Woodside, Ill., March 15, 1848, daughter of Samuel and Martha (Gray) Renshaw, the former born in Tennessee in 1800, and the latter in Virginia, in 1810. Mr. Renshaw was a farmer by occupation and located at Louisville, Ky., where he learned the trade of > cabinet-maker. Later he came to Sangamon County, Ill., remained a short time at Rochester, then purchased 240 acres of land near Wood- his His widow sur- They were parents of three married Warren Bergett, of Woodside, and both died recently; Elizabeth married John White and both are deceased; Mrs. Hnoch P. White. Warren Burgett was a school teacher by occupation, became Principal of the Third Ward School of Springfield, and later for four years held the position of County Superintendent of Schools. Hight children were born to Enoch P. White and wife, namely: Etta, born May 7, 1862, died August 25, 1885; Egbert, born June 5, 1865, died August 3, 1866; Samuel R., born December 2, 1869, died July 12, 1871; William C., born January 21, 1868; Lois, born May 14, 1872, wife of George Kapes, of Harvard Park, Springfield; Josie M., born March 20, 1874, wife of Thomas Green, of Springfield ; Clyde, born June 5, 1875, is a carpenter and lives at home; Clifford M., born April 2, 1883, a carpenter living in Springfield. In politics Mr. White is a Socialist and in religious views is liberal. His. wife is an Adventist. He is an intelligent and public-spirited citizen and is highly respected by a large circle of friends.

WHITE, Frank. - A number of the Englishmen who came to the United States to find new homes where they could better their conditions, found congenial employment in tilling the soil, so that in many localities, much credit is due to the people of that nation for the development of the land. This is particularly true in Sangamon County, where a number. of native-born Englishmen are farmers. One who is thoroughly representative of the best class of agriculturists here is Frank White, of Clear Lake Township, born in Warwickshire, England, May 11, 1827, being a son of Zachariah and Susanna (England) White, born in Warwickshire and Devonshire, England, respectively. The father was a ribbon manufacturer, and he and his wife spent their lives in England, he living to be 103 years of age. He and his wife had nine children, six sons and three daughters, but of them all only Frank and his brother, Henry White, of Riverton, and one sister Mrs. Elizabeth Clay of England, survive. The father served twenty-four years in the English Army before commencing his career as a manufacturer of ribbon.

Frank White was educated in England, in the intervals of working in the mines, which he entered when only seven years old. He continued to work in the mines there until he was thirtyfive years old, his business being the sinking of shafts, a dangerous kind of work. On March 11, 1862, he set sail from Liverpool for Australia, and after 100 days on the water, landed in Melbourne with a party of three. They went into the mountains prospecting for gold, finding it on the Big River, and returning to Melbourne and going thence to Patterson, there secured employment in the mines at ten dollars per day. Remaining there a short time, they returned to Melbourne, and after a short stay there, pro- ceeded to Sidney and from there, to New South Wales, where they were employed in the gold mines two years, They then went to Victoria, but in a short time set sail for San Francisco, Cal. From that city they went through the mountains of California, still prospecting for gold and meeting with a measure of success. They remained in California two years, then crossed the country via the Isthmus of Panama.

Mr. White then came to Ogle, St. Clair County, Ill., to resume his old occupation of sinking a shaft, but after a short stay there, went to Indian Territory, working there in the interests of Crandall and Jay Gould, who at that time were operating seventy-seven mines. After a Stay of one year there, Mr. White came to Sangamon County, settled in Riverton, where he once more engaged in sinking shafts, and followed this business for ten years. He then located on his present farm in Clear Lake Township, owning 200 acres of rich farming land in the township and 800 acres in different parts of the county. Since 1890, he has lived in retirement, after his adventurous life.

Mr. White was married in Warwickshire, England, to Jane Walker, born in that county. Her parents never left England, her father, spending his life in mines there. She died in Ogle, leaving one child, Frank White, Jr., who now resides at Virden, Ill. Mr. White was again ma! - ried on December 26, 1870, to Mrs. Hannah Hewitt a widow with two children, Henry Hewitt and Mrs. Ella Huck. She died in Riverton, Ill.. November 2, 1891, leaving four children Mrs. Howard Grubb, Rosena White, Edgar and Arthur White, all residing at home. Mr. White was married (third) on May 23, 1900, to Mrs. Marian B. (McNealy) Richardson, born February 13, 1840, in Menard County, Ill., but her father was a Kentuckian, who came to that county in an early day, settling on a farm where he lived until 1850, then moved to Petersburg, where his death occurred. His wife was born near Montpelier, Vt., and she came to Petersburg, Ill., where she died in 1859, having been born March 14, 1814. Mr. McNealy was born in 1807, and died in 1897, aged ninety years. Mr. and Mrs. McNealy had sixteen children, ten sons and six daughters, five of whom survive.

During his long and useful life, Mr. White has witnessed many changes, has visited numerous places and accumulated a fortune, which he has invested in Sangamon County Farm land. An excellent conversationalist, Mr. White talks entertainingly of his travels and is a man whe stands high in his neighborhood.

WHITE, Gill Porter - With a thorough knowledge of farming and what can be accomplished with Sangamon County land, the young agriculturists of this section are making a good record for themselves and their locality, and their success is being quoted throughout the State. One of those who has already accomplished much is Gill Porter White, residing on the family homestead, Section 26, New Berlin

Township, born in Island Grove Township, August 27, 1874, a son of John D. and Mary J. (Luce) White, the former of whom died June 28, 1900, and the latter February 9, 1911.

Mr. White was more carefully educated than many farmer boys and was given the advantages offered by the school of Bates, Ill., and the New Berlin High School. Completing a three years' course, he returned to the farm and, although nineteen years old, rented land from his father and engaged in farming for himself, making his home with his parents until his marriage. This important event took place March 10, 1897, when he was united with Estella Harrison, born in Alexander, Morgan County, Ill., December 14, 1879, daughter of Cornelius C. and Caroline I. (Young) Harrison, the father born in Franklin, Morgan County, Ill., August 27, 1841, while the mother was born in Scott County, Ill., in August 23, 1847. Mr. Harrison left his parents when still a boy, so knows little of the family history, believing however, that he came from the same stock as the late ex-president Benjamin Harrison. Growing up in Morgan County, he enlisted in the United States service at the outbreak of the war and gave his country three years of his life, being honorably discharged. Returning home, he later moved to Alexander, Ill., and here gradually recovered his health, which had been shattered by hard experience as a soldier. As soon as able, he went to work on a farm for a Mr. Alexander, buying and feeding stock. Eventually he went to work in the elevator at Alexander, where he was steadily employed for thirty years, or until his death, September 27, 1904. His widow is making her home with Mrs. Fred Jones, of New Philadelphia, Ill. They had the following children: Lauis C., telegrapher for the Rock Island Railroad; May Belle, wife of Fred Jones, station agent at New Philadelphia, Ill., two children, Harrison and Arthur; Emerson died in infancy; Gilbert C., of Alexander, married Sarah Ruble, two children, Margaret J. and Elsie; Richard N., of Mapleton, Ill., station agent, married Otelia Reaken. The Young family originated in Italy many years ago. Mr. Harrison, like his illustrious relative, was a stanch supporter of Republicanism. Both he and his wife were true, Christian people and devout members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. While strong in his likes and dislikes, Mr. Harrison recognized the right of every man to his own opinion, and was a man whose influence was felt wherever he happened to be.

After marriage Mr. and Mrs. White located on 'his farm on Section 26, New Berlin Township, consisting of 140 acres. The property had been rented for some time and was-run down, but he soon remedied that by putting in tiling, trimming the hedges, and building a beautiful cottage. He not only keeps his premises neat and orderly, but will not permit weeds to grow in the road along his property. Many an older farmer could learn from this progressive young man, who eagerly adopts any method he believes is a good one for his work. With the exception of one year spent in Indianapolis, Mr. and Mrs. White have lived on their farm, realizing that they prefer rural pleasures to those offered by a large city. They have three sweet little ones: Harriette, born June 13, 1901; Margaret E., born August 29, 1903, and baby John C., born September 27, 1905. Mrs. White is a charming lady, who presides over her household with simple dignity, welcoming all visitors with true hospitality. Both she and Mr. White are members of the Presbyterian Church and he belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America of New Berlin. In politics he is a Democrat.

Mr. White operates 200 acres of rich Sangamon County land, which he devotes to general farming and stock raising, making a specialty of raising the best grades of cattle and horses. He has been Highway Commissioner, and while in office was able to give his constituents a thoroughly business-like administration and execute the work in his department economically and satisfactorily.

WHITE, Henry. - The White family is old and honored in Sangamon County, and originated in England. Henry White was born, in Warwickshire, England, -in January, 1835. Since coming to the United States he has labored to advance the interests of his adopted land, and is now one of the responsible residents of Riverton, where he is a hoisting engineer and farmer. He is a son of Zachariah and Susanna White, natives of England, who never came to America, but died in the land that gave them birth, the father passing away in 1874 and the mother in 1870. The father was a soldier in the English army, who participated in the battle of Waterloo and also fought during the Irish Rebellion, being the color bearer. He was wounded on two occasions, serving in all twenty-eight years and eleven months. Later he was interested in mining.

Henry White is self-educated, having been put to work at a tender age. When he was twenty years old he was made pit boss, later boss of a gang on the surface at the mines in his vicinity, and continued to work in this manner until 1884, when he sailed for America, landing in New York. From that city he came direct to Dawson, Ill., and for a year worked , in the mines there, then moved to Riverton. After a year spent in this-town, he went to Canada, and spent eighteen months in the Dominion, but did not like it there and returned to Riverton, where he bought a small farm of five acres, which has continued to be his home ever since. He devotes his land to truck farming and is producing some very fine vegetables, for which he finds a ready market on account of their excellence. In addition to his home place, Mr. White owns realty in Springfield, and is in comfortable circumstances, although all his property has been earned by his own hard work. , ;

United States. Mr. and Mrs. White became the parents of thirteen children, nine of whom survive: Susanna, wife of Arthur Tyler, a farmer; Sarah, whose husband is in the employ of the Chicago, Peoria & St. Louis Railroad Company at Springfield; Mary, wife of Benjamin Harrison, lives in Spaulding, I1; William H. and Zachariah live at Spaulding; Clara, wife of Albert Eliott, a farmer of Canada; Alice Hamrick lives in Spaulding; Harry lives in Riverton and is engaged in mining; and Richard, who resides with his father. There are thirty-six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren in the family, and Mr. White is devoted to them all and proud of them and of his family, as he has every reason to be, for his children have grown up to do him credit. Mr. White attends service at the Episcopal Church. He is a Republican, but has never cared to come forward for office, his business affairs occupying his time and interest. He is a fine-appearing man, hale and hearty, who possesses a genial manner and kindliness of disposition that makes itself felt. While he had practically no educational advantages, he is well informed and thoroughly abreast of the times. Not having had many advantages himself, he was determined that his children

WHITE, James C. - The history of the Civil War will not be completed until the last veteran of that great struggle answers to the last roll call, for the sacrifices of those who served in it did not cease when peace was declared, but have continued throughout lives that have in many cases been overshadowed by the aftereffects of wounds, privations and exposure. One of these men of whom Sangamon is justly proud, is James C. White, residing at No, 703 North Fourth Street. He was born in Macon County, Tenn., June 29, 1847, a son of Archibald and Lucy J. White. The grandfather, Archibald White, was born in England and married Jennie White, who bore the same name, but was no relative, born on the North Fork of Barren Run, Macon County, Tenn. The grandfather was a Revolutionary soldier, and a good, brave man. His son, father of James C. White, was a farmer all his life, dying June 10, 1865, in the place he was born, in Macon County, Tenn. His' widow survived him many years, passing away in 1894, at Latham, Logan County, IN. Both were consistent members of the Christian Church, in which faith they brought up their children, who were as follows: Timothy; Samuel, deceased; Harriet; James C.; Mary Mary J.; Mrs. H. M. Bond, of Kansas City, Mo.; George, deceased; Archibald, of Auburn, Tl.; John M., of Springfield; Lovell R. and Martha, both deceased. í until he was sixteen years old, and received a meager education, attending school only six months altogether. When only a lad of sixteen years, he enlisted, at Frankfort, Ky., as a private in Company F, Fifty-second Kentucky Volunteer Infantry, under Captain W. C. King and Colonel John M. Greider. When his first term of service expired he re-enlisted in Company D, Eighth Kentucky Volunteer Infantry, in 1864, and continued until he was honorably discharged. His war experience being ended, he returned to his old home, but after a short stay there, came to Illinois. He spent twelve years at Duquoin, principally engaged in farming. Following this he worked in several places on farms and at railroad labor, until his marriage, when he returned to Duquoin. He has resided in several communities, finally coming to Springfield in 1901, and has been connected with several lines of business, always hampered by the effects of the terrible strain he was under at a formative period. Forced into manhood when but a boy, he shouldered heavy responsibilities that undermined his health and unfitted him for strenuous labor.

Mr. White was married at McLeansboro, Ill., January 18, 1875, to Miss Mary A. Lanty, a native of Tennessee. Mr. and Mrs. White became the parents of children as follows: James C. died at the age of six years; Timothy at home; and Harriet, now Mrs. Thomas Rourke, of Springfield. Mr. White was formerly a member of the Christian Church. In politics he is a Republican, but has never held office. A brave man, who gave his best services to his country, Mr. White is deserving of more than passing mention in a work of this kind, which has for its object the preservation of the records of those who have contributed towards the greatness of the county or community. What more can a man do than to offer up his life to a cause he loves? That is what James White did nearly fifty years ago.

WHITE, Robert E. - The agricultural interests of Sangamon County are among the most important here, and many of its most substantial citizens are engaged in tilling the soil. One of the prosperous farmers and stockmen of Cartwright Township is Robert E. White, of Section 29, born on this farm, in the house he now occupies, September 6, 1867. He is a son of Thomas E. and Elizabeth M. (Purvines) White, who were married February 18, 1862. Mrs. White was born on Section 29, a portion of the farm now owned by her son, July 23, 1834. The farm was entered from the government by her grandfather, John Purvines, who came here from South Carolina about 1819. His son, Samuel Puryines, father of Mrs. White, married Mary Irwin, who was brought here by her father, Linn Irwin, also a native of South Carolina, who became a pioneer of this locality in 1819. Thomas E. White was born in Montgomery County, Ill., near Coffeen, June 13, 1832. His parents dying when he was about five years

When still a lad, Thomas E. White came to Sangamon County, living here until the gold excitement in California, when he made a trip west, but returned and married. He was one of the progressive men of his period, his efforts meeting with well-merited success. Settling down on the farm his wife inherited. he developed it into a good property, and there they reared their children, who were: twins, who died in infancy; Lola A., born January 18, 1864, married Charles B. Hawkins on February 11, 1886, a farmer of Cartwright Township, issue, - Thomas S., Erma E., and Robert B.; Robert E., born September 6, 1867; Thomas S., born December 21, 1876, married Grace Newman, lives on a portion of the homestead, issue, - Thomas Emory and Della Fay. Mr. White was a Republican, and filled a number of the township offices, discharging his duties asa public official as faithfully as those pertaining to his private life. He was a Mason, fraternally, while in religious faith, he was a member of the Methodist Church. Mrs. White resides with her son, Robert B. White, this arrangement having been entered into upon the death of Mr. White, October 2, 1891, when he was but fifty-nine years old. He was a man of more than ordinary ability and his many excellent traits of character combined with a pleasant personality, won for him lasting friends.

Robert E. White spent his boyhood upon the farm, attending the schools of his neighborhood. From the time he was tall enough to reach the plow handles, he bore a man's part in the farm work, and learned farming from the beginning. On November 8, 1893, Mr. White was united in marriage with Ollie Irwin, daughter of Samuel G. Irwin, now deceased, the mother

1868, and brought up on a farm.. Mr. Irwin was one of the brave soldiers of the Civil War, belonging to Company G, One Hundred and Fourteenth Illinois Volunteer Infantry. He was captured but made his escape from the infamous Andersonville prison. Following the war, he spent some peaceful years. He and his wife had ten children, six of whom survive, four sons and two daughters.

on December 21, 1894. This bright young fellow is now attending school in the White district, as did his father. Mr. White and his brother Silas, are conducting the homestead of 300 acres, and 200 acres additional. They carry a good grade of stock, now specializing on the Duroc-Jersey hogs, although for years, they raised Poland-China hogs. In politics, both brothers are Republicans. Fraternally, they belong to the Modern Woodmen of America of Pleasant Plains. They are enterprising young men, devoted to their work, whose success is

WHITECRAFT, Walter S. (deceased), spent most of his life farming in Christian County, Ill., but seven years before his death retired from active life and located in Springfield. He was born on a farm near Edinburg, Christian County, August 26, 1863, son of Silas M. and Lottie (Price) Whitecraft, the former born in Kentucky and the latter in New York. The parents were farmers and Walter S. Whitecraft received his early education in the country schools. He afterward took a course in a business college in Springfield, after which he began farming with an uncle in Christian County. He was an enterprising and successful farmer and was esteemed by all with whom he had business or social dealings, for his honesty and integrity. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church and in politics was a Republican. He belonged to the Knights of Pythias at Edinburg.

Mr. Whitecraft was married, at Taylorville, Ill., February 22, 1893, to Miss Almira Byers, who was born in W. Va., November 18, 1872, daughter of J. C. and Mary (Blockin) Byers, the former a native of West Virginia and the later of Maryland. Children as follows were born to Mr. Whitcroft and his wife: William S.. January 21, 1895; Helen C., August 3, 1902; Ruth E., December 12, 1904; Jane, November 15, 1907. Mr. Whitecraft died in Springfield, November 11, 1907, and his remains were buried in Oak Ridge Cemetery. He was a man of social, kindly disposition and his loss was genuinely mourned by a large number of friends. His widow owns the home occupied by the family, at 1220 West Monroe Street, and devotes herself to the training and educating of her children.

WHITMORE, Oliver. - Every branch of industrial activity has its exponent in Springfield, and many of the business men here have reached a condition of excellence not excelled by any in the State. One of the prosperous representatives of the business life of this city is Oliver Whitmore, dyer and cleaner, conveniently located at No. 1004 North Twelfth Street. He was born in Mc- Keesport, Pa., September 10, 1885, a son of Daniel and Catherine (Cripliver) Whitmore. The father was born in Pennsylvania and grew up in his native State, learning the carpenter trade. In young manhood he moved to Toledo, Lucas County, Ohio, where he lived until 1888, in that year coming to Illinois, and establishing himself in a contracting business in Chicago. During his residence in that city, he erected more than 300 houses, many of them being in Elsdon, a suburb of the city. In 1897, he moved to Springfield, where he continued his contracting operations until 1905, when he entered the employ of the Abbott's Box Factory. He and his wife make their home at No. 1305 Peorta road. They attend the Third Presbyterian Church. The chil- dren born to Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Whitmore are: George, died in Springfield, April, 1910; Maggie, deceased wife of William Alby, of Chicago; Lydia, wife of William Casey of Springfield; Oliver; Eva, deceased, and Eva.

Oliver Whitmore was but an infant when the family moved to Ohio, and there he lived long enough to commence his education, which he completed in Chicago and Springfield. Almost immediately after leaving school he entered Shubert's Dye Works, serving an apprenticeship of four years, when he engaged with Howley Dye Works. Having then learned every detail of the business, he established himself in it, at No. 216 North Sixth Street, where he carried on a high class cleaning and dying plant. In November, 1909, he built his present plant at No. 1004 North Twelfth Street, moving into it in June, 1910. His business has so increased that he has been forced to erect an addition, 22x50 feet. His plant is complete in every respect, being equipped with modern machinery, and all of his work is executed in a highly satisfactory manner.

In August, 1904, Mr. Whitmore was married in Springfield, to Etta DeFraties of this city, daughter of the late Henry DeFraties, for many years one of the efficient members of the police force. Mr. and Mrs. Whitmore haye three children: May, Wilbur and Harriet. For seven years he has belonged to the Federation of Labor. Both he and Mrs. Whitmore have a circle of warm, personal friends who appreciate their many good attributes, and in the business world, Mr. Whitmore stands high for his executive ability and strict integrity.

WICKHAM, Seth W. (deceased). - Sangamon County has some of the best farms within its confines that can be found in the State, and their excellent condition is due to the efforts of the progressive farmers who have exerted them- Selves in cultivating the soil. Some of the older farmers, after years of honest industry, 'have ceased their labors, and now, retired and living in Springfield, are free to devote time and attention to civic matters. One of the representa- tired for some years prior to his demise was Seth W. Wickham of No. 334 Douglas avenue, He was born in Licking County, Ohio, October 30, 1824, a son of Hull and Phebe (Evans) Wickham, the former born August 3, 1788, in Licking County, Ohio, and the latter in Ohio, February 5, 1790. The father was a farmer, living and dying in Ohio, as did his wife. They had eleven children, four sons and seven daugh- T The father was a soldier in the War of

Seth W. Wickham attended the primitive log schools of Licking County, Ohio, and at the same time worked on his father's farm, learning how to do all kinds of farm labor, so that when he came to Sangamon County, in 1850, settling on a farm near Springfield, he was able to make a success of his attempt. This farm of 100 acres continued to be his home until his retirement in 1896, when he moved into Springfield. While living in the country, he served as School Director for several years. His religious connections were with the Methodist Church, which he joined early in life, and he was a Republican.

On December 31, 1868, Mr. Wickham was united in marriage to Cornelia (Frazee) Large, born in Sangamon County, October 24, 1839. Her parents came to the county from New Jersey at an early day, the father working at the carpenter trade for a number of years, but eventually engaged in farming. He lived to be ninety years of age. He and his wife had four daughters. Two children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Wickham: Thomas W. of No. 509 South Douglas avenue, and Minnie L., wife of Louis Ferreira, a farmer of Clark County, Wis. There are six owned his residence and other realty, having invested quite extensively in city property, as he had a firm belief in the city's future. Mr. Wickham died June 3, 1911.

WIEBORG, George (deceased). - To provide generously for a family he has brought into the world and the wife he has taken unto himself, is the hope of every right-minded man. Some succeed better than others. When one of the prosperous ones combines with business ability, a generous, kindly disposition, sterling honesty of purpose and devotion to family ties, he is tenderly cherished, and when death takes him away his memory is kept green in the hearts of those who loved him in life and miss him now that his place is empty. A representative farmer who for years was an important factor in the agricultural life of Sangamon County, was the late George Wieborg, who in life resided in Woodside Township. He was born in Hamburg, near Berlin, Germany, April 25, 1858; a son of William Wieborg, also a native of Germany, and a farmer by calling. The parents never left Germany, the mother living to the age of eighty-six years, but the father dying many years before her. George Wieborg had a half-sister.

George Wieborg, while receiving a common school education, worked on his father's farm until he was sixteen years old. At that time he came to America, arriving in 1866, just after the close of the Civil War. Landing in New York, he came direct to Petersburg, Ill., where he began farming, continuing in that locality for five years. He then moved to Hillsboro, spent a year there, then came to Sangamon County and bought the farm which is now the family residence, in Woodside Township. There he passed away, November 18, 1909, dying firm in the faith of the German Lutheran Church, of which he had long been a member,

Mr. Wieborg was married in Hillsboro, Ill., to Margaret Jacobs, born in Hamburg, Germany, April 16, 1854. Her parents came to Petersburg, Ill., in 1866, locating on a farm, where they resided until moving to Hillsboro. There they also farmed, later returning to Petersburg, where both died. Hight children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Wieborg, of whom seven survive: Christopher conducts the farm for his mother, and was born December 8, 1883; Henry, born January 16, 1889, and Jacob, born April 7, 1891, with Christopher, own 400 acres of valuable farm land in Woodside Township; Laura; George lives at home; Mary, married and residing in Curran Township, has one child, Margaret; Lena married William Grath, lives in Woodside Township, and has one child, Davis.

Mr. Wieborg was a strong Democrat but could never be induced to accept office, although his neighbors frequently urged him to accept nomination, for they realized that men of his character were needed in positions of trust. He felt that he was better fitted to exert his influence as a private citizen, so never put himself before the public. He was quiet and unassuming, devoted to his family, and eager to make life pleasant for them. Hardworking and a good Christian, he was a model man, and left behind him a worthy record for his children to follow.

WIEDLOCHER, Frank. - It is a long step from the day when our forefathers ground their meal by pounding grain between two stones, in the primitive mill, to the mill plant of the present day, with its modern equipment, carefully adjusted machinery and electric motive power, but the eyolution has been brought about by studious, practical men, and the industry now requires specialists, no less than other lines of modern business. The Hlevator Milling Company, of which Frank Wiedlocher, a representative citizen of Springfield, Ill., is President, is an example of the perfection which has been reached in this, almost the oldest industry.

Frank Wiedlocher was born at Virden,, Ill., March 9, 1861, a son of Frank A. and Margaret (Keisling) Wiedlocher, natives of Germany. Both parents came to America in sailing vessels which required about sixty-five days to make the voyage, the father landing in the United States in 1852 and the mother one year later. They were married after meeting at Springfield, Ill. He landed near New Orleans and later came up the Mississippi River as far as St. Louis, where he remained for several years working as a miller, came from there to Springfield, and afterwards moved to Virden. During the Civil War he made flour at Virden, for the Government, going from there to a mill at Butler, after which he conducted the Old Berlin Run Mill for one and one-half years. Then he returned to Springfield and continued in the milling business until 1870, when he moved to Elkhart, Ill., and there engaged in milling for two years, followed the same business at Lincoln for five years, and then returned to Springfield once more, where he operated the old Spring Creek mill for two years. Impaired health caused his retirement and he resided at Springfield until his death, in 1901, when he Was aged seventy-six years. His widow survives and resides at No. 118 West Mason Street, Springfield. They had eleven children and seyen of these are living. He was a Democrat in political opinions, but was never -willing to accept office. He was a faithful and consistent member of SS, Peter and Paul Roman Catholic Church, and was identified with St. Vincent's Catholic Society.

Frank Wiedlocher, inheriting his father's name, together with his business inclinations, obtained his education in the public schools of Lincoln and the parochial schools of the Catholic Church at Springfield. From the time he was fifteen years of age he has been interested in milling, and worked continuously in a mill until he was nineteen years old, going then to the old Lewis coal mine for a short time, but later returning to milling. He was in the employ of Louis Wacherly for one year and for one year more. was engaged at HEverybodies' mill and continued with the new firm, Roe & Dana for four years, after which he was with the hominy mill at Springfield and served there as second miller for thirteen months. That mill was destroyed by fire and he then rented the water mill on Spring Creek and went into business with Fred Ihlenfeldt. Six months later he bought his partner's interest and continued alone for four months, then sold out. The two former partners then -resumed their business relations and bought the Everybodies' mill, which they operated for eighteen months and then sold to Elmer Dana. Mr. Wiedlocher then embarked in a wholesale and retail flour and feed business, locating on Hast Adams Street, but his business soon outgrew its quarters and he rented a larger building on Fourth Street. where he remained until 1890, then purchased the tract on which he subsequently erected his present fine building, which is known as Arion Hall. In 1895 Mr. Wiedlocher's partner died and he bought the latter's interest from the widow, and has continued the business. He is president of the Elevator Milling Company and has additional interests, being a stockholder in

At Winchester, Ill., on September 4, 1884, Mr. Wiedlocher was married to Miss Amelia Metzgar, who was born at Neiderlessen, Baden, Germany, October 6, 1868, a daughter of N. Metzgar. Her parents are now deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Wiedlocher five children have been born, namely: George, who is employed by his father at Springfield, married Mary Duffield; Marie, who is now Sister Mary Magdalene at St. John's Hospital; Carl, who is a student at Quincy College; Frank, who attends SS. Peter and Paul School; and Clara, who is a student

While he has always been an interested citizen, Mr. Wiedlocher has never desired public office. Like his father, he is a Democrat. He is a member of a number of fraternal and social organizations, including the Western Catholic Union; the Catholic Order of Foresters; St. Vincent's Society; the Modern Woodmen of America and the Loyal Americans.

WIETIES, Jeff, a prosperous farmer of Sangamon County, Ill., was born in Hanover, Germany, April 29, 1851, a son of Uffie and Minnie (Utckins) Wieties, both natives of Germany, the former born in Hanover. The father was a farmer in Germany and had served in the German Army. He and his wife came to America with their son Jeff, in 1852, sailing from Bremen and landing in New York, after spending seven weeks on the voyage. One son, John, remained in Germany and came to America at a later date, and the parents brought one son with them. John Wieties worked twelve years in the State House and is now janitor of Odd Fellows Hall in Springfield. The father came direct to Springfield and assisted in building the State House which is now the Court House. He purchased a farm of eighty acres in Cass County, later moved to Adams County, farmed there ten years, then returned to Springfield and worked in the rolling mills until his death in 1886. His widow died in 1892.

Jeff Wieties received his education in the country schools of Cass County, Ill., and pursued his studies in a log building. He spent his time on his father's farm up to the time he was married, after marriage worked sixteen years in the Rolling Mills, then worked eight months at Noblett's laundry as engineer. He was engineer for the street car company which first installed electric cars in Springfield, in 1890, and for the following fifteen years was with that company. He spent two years and eight months at Divernon, Sangamon County, as engineer at the electric light plant. He came to his present farm in March, 1908. He owns twenty acres and rents ninety acres besides. He devotes his land principally to general crops and is successful in his operations.

He is an active member of the Lutheran Church and is interested in the welfare of his community. In politics he is a Republican and is one of the Judges of Election of his district. Fraternally he belongs to the American Home Circle and to Sangamon Lodge No. 6, Independent Order of Odd Fellows.

Mr. Wieties was married in Adams County, Ill., March 13, 1872, to Miss Louisa Bruntz, born in that county. New Years Day, 1855. Her parents emigrated to Adams County from Hanover, Germany, and located on a farm near Crown Point, Ill., where their last days were spent. Mr. Bruntz worked on the construction of the Wabash Railroad from Clayton to Camp Point. He and his wife had nine children. Nine children were born to Mr, Wieties and his wife, of whom seven survive, namely: Uffie, of Springfield, works for the Illinois Watch Company; Fred, employed by the same company; William, of Granite City, Ill., is agent for the Illinois Traction System; Ella married James Corsican, a machinist in the employ of the Wabash Railroad Company; Clara, wife of William Love, in the employ of the Berry Piano Company, of Springfield; Minnie and Clarence, live at home. There are nine grandchildren in the family. Mr. Wieties is a man of intelligence and ability, social in disposition and popular with his friends.

WILCOX, Ellis - The pioneers of Illinois were pre-eminently courageous and resourceful, establishing their straggling settlements on the frontier. In all their efforts they displayed a wonderful readiness in adapting themselves to conditions and meeting emergencies. Their hardihood and energy in upbuilding and maintaining a happy home life laid the foundation for the present civilization. Their love of home and family grew with the passage of .time, and as they and theirs emerged from the period of making homespun clothing and living entirely off the products of their land, they took pleasure in the victory that definitely crowned their work, which was one of independence achieved. The records of all the old families of the State show accounts of remarkable personal bravery, and nowhere more than in Sangamon County, which, twenty years after the State was admitted to the Union, was honored as the seat of the capital city.

Among those who have become well known in Sangamon County those bearing the name of Wilcox occupy enviable positions. The family was founded in Sangamon County in 1819 by John Wilcox, a frontiersman, and son of John Wilcox, a Captain in the Revolutionary War. His son John was a Lieutenant in another regiment in the same struggle. The Wilcox family originated in Scotland, but the younger John Wilcox was born in Maryland. He married in Virginia, Lucinda Oglesby, born in that State, and a first cousin of the late Gov. Richard J. Oglesby. The death of John Wilcox occurred in Illinois and his remains are interred at Round Grove Cemetery. Mrs. Wilcox came of English ancestry, so that their son Ellis inherited the traits of both Scotch and English forebears,

Ellis Wilcox was a man of strong character and was pre-eminently fitted to be a pioneer. He never received any schooling, but was a splendid natural mathematician. He came to Sangamon County to live with his father, making the trip on horseback from Kentucky. Later he rode to Galena and back. At that time the family of Hugh McGarry lived in that region. There were still some Indians and wild game was plenty. About 1826 he married and moved his household possessions in a prairie schooner, 10- cating four miles west of Berlin, where he engaged in farming. He put up a log cabin on the land he secured, improved his farm and added to it, and at the time of his death owned about 1,500 acres. He died about fifteen years ago, when he was one hundred years old, having passed that birthday by four months and ten days. He was a good machinist, shoemaker and carpenter, but made a very little money working at these different trades for the various pioneer families were generally poor. By birth he was a Virginian, but early moved to Kentucky, where his marriage occurred. His wife was Ann Lewis, a daughter of Neriah and Mary (Moss) Lewis, natives of South Carolina. Ann Lewis was fourteen years old when the family moved to Kentucky. Her parents later moved to Macoupin County, lll., where they resided until their deaths, engaged in farming. Members of the Lewis family served in the Revolutionary War. Ann Lewis Wilcox died at the age of seventytwo years, about thirty-five years ago. Ellis Wilcox and his wife had ten children, three of whom still survive: Thomas M. of Berlin, Il; Dr. J. L. Wilcox of Springfield, and J. F. Wilcox of Phoenix, Ariz.

Mr. Wilcox was a Whig, but later became a Democrat, and his ideal was Henry Clay. Never caring for office, he took but little part in public life. In religious views he was very liberal, and tried hard to do what he believed was his duty. For many years he was the oldest living resident of Sangamon County, and his memory was remarkable. During the latter part of his life he was an authority upon matters relating to happenings in pioneer days, and he always enjoyed telling of his experiences when the wilderness was still an unknown quality.

WILCOX, J. L., M. D., one of the oldest practicing physicians of Springfield, Ill, who has served many years as City Physician and is President of the Board of Pension Examiners, is a native of Sangamon County, born in Island Grove Township, November 26, 1832, son of Ellis Wilcox, whose biography also appears in this work.

The early education of Dr. Wilcox was acquired in the old log subscription school near his home, and for a time he afterwards attended public school, after the establishment of a regular public school system. He entered Shurtliff College in 1853, spent one year there, then took a two years' course in classics at Illinois College. After studying a year and a half with Drs. Wilson and Gibson, of Berlin, Ill., he entered Rush Medical College, and about one year later entered St. Louis Medical College, from which he graduated in 1859. After his graduation Dr. Wilcox spent one year in California Gulch, carrying a pack on his back, and occupied in mining and practicing medicine. He then located in Manito, Ill., where for a year he practiced in partnership with Dr. J. B. Meigs, a very bright man in the profession. In 1862 Dr. Wilcox enlisted in the Eleventh Illinois Cavalry, which was organized at Peoria, by Robert G. Ingersoll, and served until the end

About 1882 Dr. Wilcox located in Springfield, and since that time has there been engaged in active practice, with the exception of five years When he served as Revenue Collector. He has always taken a strong interest in local affairs and has supported every movement for the advancement of the interests of the community. He has always advocated the principles of the Democratie party, but has not in any way entered politics for the purpose of holding public office. In 1874 he was elected to the State Legislature and became Chairman of the Public Buildings and Grounds Committee. During his service on this committee he succeeded in securing a back appropriation of $800,000 to complete the State House. He was interested in securing the passage of a law compelling coal operators to have a safety escape in shafts, also served as Chairman pro tem. of the finance committee. During Dr, Wilcox's service in the Legislature he always strongly advocated economy, and the Assembly in which he served was said to be the most economical ever held in Illinois.

During the second year of Dr. Wilcox's residence in Springfield he was elected City Physician, and has served at various times in this office, aggregating thirteen years. Under President Cleveland's administration he served as Collector of Revenue of the Highth District of Illinois, and under Cleveland's first administration served as President of the Board of Pension Examiners, being re-appointed on the Board in 1907 and now serving as President. While living in Loami Dr. Wilcox served as Chairman of the Democratic Central Committee. He is a member of the G. A. R., the A. F. & A. M., and of the Sangamon County Medical Society. In religious belief he holds very liberal views.

Having lived so many years in Springfield and being possessed of ability and skill, Dr. Wilcox has built up a fine practice and has been very successful. He has established himself in the public confidence and stands high in his profession. While serving in the army he was appointed Assistant Surgeon, and the people of Springfield and Sangamon County have delighted many times to show him honor. Financially he has been successful and has owned farm land and other property. He has many friends and is considered a public-spirited, representative citizen.

Dr. Wilcox was married, in 1860, to Miss Alice V. Parker, of Island Grove Township, who lived but ten months after her marriage, leaving an infant son, Joe Allison, who married Anna Dunlap. Joe A. Wilcox died March 28, 1910, leaving. a widow and four children - three daughters and one son, now living in New Berlin, Il. November 9, 1865, Dr. Wilcox married (second) Jean Frances Patteson, datighter of Dr. Alexander Patteson, of Sangamon County, formerly of Lexington County, Ky. Three children were born of this union, namely: Dwight, unmarried,

Okla., and Anna Lewis, married C. B. Wilson, of Smithfield, Ky., and has three sons. Mr. Wilson is a cousin of Gen. Bell, of the United States Army. A. P. Wilcox is quite prominent in the city where he resides. He married (first) Leva Billings, by whom he had one daughter, Frances C., and after his first wife's death married (second) her sister, Iva Billings.

WILCOX, Thomas Moore. - No account of the pioneer history of Sangamon County would be complete without mention of Thomas Moore Wilcox whose efforts towards the development of this locality are widely known and universally recognized. He has now retired from active work, residing in his beautiful nome on West Main street, New Berlin. His birth took place June 28, 1831, on a farm in what is now New Berlin Township, a son of Ellis A. and Ann (Lewis) Wilcox, the father being a native of Tennessee, to which place his father came from England. In 1820, he moved with his family to Kentucky, and in 1825, came to Sangamon County. Here he spent the summer cutting down trees in which the wild bees made their home, for the beeswax, which he collected, taking it back with him to Kentucky in the fall. However, he was so pleased with the new country, that he returned, locating in Berlin Township. He was later followed by his father, who located in Clear Lake Township.

After coming here, Ellis A. Wilcox secured land from the government, his deed being signed by President Jackson. To this he added more property, becoming one of the extensive landowners of Sangamon County. This excellent man lived to the extreme old age of 102 years, being born in 1793, and dying in 1895. During the early days in Kentucky, he was a Whig, but after coming to Illinois, espoused the principles of Democracy, although bitterly opposed to slavery. While not a member of any church, he gave freely of his ample means towards the furtherance of religious work, and his wife was a devout Baptist. She was born in 1800, in South Carolina, and died in 1876, and she and her husband rest in the Moore Cemetery of Berlin Township. To them were born children as follows: Josiah L., a physician of Springfield, for many years regimental surgeon of the Eleventh Illinois Cavalry, and is now City Physician; John of Arizona; Charles W., deceased; Samuel, also deceased; Lucinda, married Thomas Rhea, and both are now deceased.

Thomas Moore Wilcox grew up amid strictly pioneer conditions, attending the first school erected in the neighborhood. This building was a neighborhood affair, the farmers going after the log with ox teams. They split them for puncheon floors, and slab seats, when the building was completed, and all were proud of the little cabin. It had one window, while a huge stove provided means for heating during the long, cold winters. The books were as primitive as the surroundings, but the children did learn, laying a firm foundation for whatever after education they might receive. Mr. Wilcox had the advantage of Several terms at the free schools, before he turned all of his attention to farm work, although from the time he could reach the plow handles, he assisted his father. He also became an expert in the use of the cradle, but now he realizes that times have changed, as he observes modern methods.

Remaining at home until he was twenty-four years old, Mr. Wilcox then married, on March 27, 1856, Mrs. Catherine (Rubble) Fox, born in Morgan County, daughter of Jesse Rubble, who for years was a prosperous farmer of Morgan County. After marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Wilcox rented land from his father, which was located on Lick Creek, and began housekeeping in one of the primitive log cabins of the neighborhood. By hard work and thrifty saving, Mr. Wilcox was soon able to buy land in Morgan County, to the extent of 800 acres, to which they moved, and built upon the property a comfortable residence. Later on, Mr. Wilcox bought a portion of the family homestead, continuing to hold his Morgan County farm. For years he was an extensive breeder of horses for road use, and was so successful that in 1898, he felt he could afford to retire, so leaving his home in charge of his sons, he came to New Berlin, where he now resides. He and his wife became the parents of children as follows: Charles L., died at the age of forty years; Albert on the farm in Morgan County; Carrie; Benjamin, deceased; Wallace of Lawrence, Kas.; Frank died at the age of twenty years; Thomas, an undertaker of Decatur, Ill.; Mary at home; Ruth deceased; Catherine, wife of Ottis King, a farmer of Curran Township. Mr. Wilcox has always been interested in educational matters, and believes in good schools. Formerly a Whig, he became a Republican, following Abraham Lincoln. The family have all been brought up in the faith of the Methodist Church, to which they belong, and Mr. Wilcox is one of the Trustees of his denomination in New Berlin. He is a straightforward man, unassuming, but capable of holding his own. He has won the contidence and respect of all who know him, and is a typical example of pioneer days when a man had to prove his true worth before he was accepted by his neighbors. In the development of the educational, religious and agricultural interests of the county, Mr. Wilcox has always taken a deep interest, and too high praise cannot be accorded him for what he has accomplished.

WILEY, Lewis D., M. D - Prominent among the professional men of Sangamon County, may be mentioned Dr. Lewis D. Wiley, whose reputation as a physician and surgeon has extended far beyond the confines of his chosen field of practice, the town of New Berlin. Dr. Wiley was born in Owen County, Ky., December 19, 1852, and is a son of Salem and Sarah A. (Marshall) Wiley. \

The grandfather of Dr. Wiley was a native of Virginia, who in young manhood left that State and went to Scott County, Ky., where he was married to Polly Robinson and settled on a farm. His first work after settling there, was the conducting of a mill for sawing lumber, and later he engaged in farming, being one of the prominent and well-to-do men of his section. His later days were spent in Owen County, where he died at the age of eighty-six years. in June, 1825, Salem Wiley, father of the Doctor, was born in Scott County, Ky., and he was (first) married there to a widow, Ellen Hunley, who bore him one son, who was accidentally killed during his twenty-first year. Mr. Wiley's first wife died, and he was married (second) to Sarah A. Marshall, after which he settled down to farming in Owen County, and at the outbreak of the Civil War had become one of the leading agriculturists of his section. His farm, however, like many others in that section of the country was ruined and devastated by the Confederate foraging parties, everything being confiscated and nothing left but the team of oxen. In fact, the family was made so destitute by the inroads of the soldiers of the Confederacy that it was necessary for a brother, B. F. Wiley, to make trips to the grist-mill, riding on an ox to get something for the family to eat. Many of the necessities of life were denied these people at this time, but after the close of the war, Mr. Wiley made a new start, and a few years later found him well on the road to prosperity. Originally a Whig, he was one of the first to join the movement that brought about the forming of the Republican party, and his loyalty to the principles of Lincoln and his hatred of slavery, earned him the title of Black Abolitionist, and as such, threats were made against his life. Never backward in standing up for for what he thought was right, Mr. Wiley was withal a just man, and wielded a power for good in his community. He was a devout member of the Baptist Church, and in that faith, he died in 1888, when sixty-three years of age. His wife survived him until 1891, and both are buried in the old family burial ground in Owen County, Ky. Their children were as follows: Benjamin F., a prosperous farmer of Oklahoma, married Sophrona R. Terry and has two children, Denver and Mrs. Carrie Redford; Melvina. the wife of J. J. Moreland, residing near the old home in Kentucky; Lewis D.; Georgia Ann, deceased, was the wife of J. J. Traylor, and had seven children, - Effie Lee, Allie B., Verna D., Emma, Melvina, Gordon and Tressie; Polly Susan, wife of George Tackett, a resident of Bardwell, has eight children; Rosey W., the widow of J. R. Tackett, has seven children; and John S., engaged in the real estate and insurance business at Lexington, Ky., was married (first) to the daughter of Dr. G. R. Lee by whom he had six children, three of whom are living, Sarah, Leslie and Wava, and married (second) Mattie Meeks, by whom he has had two children, Pauline and Martha Eiline.

Lewis D. Wiley spent his boyhood days on his father's farm, attending the district schools of his neighborhood and working for his father until twenty-one years old. At this time he rented land and put out a crop of tobacco, the most valuable crop for the Kentucky farmer at that time, and during the same year, August 17, 1873, he was married to Nancy E. Wiley, daughter of Greenville Wiley, also a native of Owen County, Ky. After their marriage the couple went to the home he had provided and he settled down to farming, his land yielding large crops under his capable handling. Taking the proceeds from his first crop, Mr. Wiley made a payment on a small tract of land, upon which was an old Kentucky hewn-log cabin, and in 1874, Mr. and Mrs. Wiley removed to the new home, and there they labored together until the little home was paid for. Death visited the happy homestead March 26, 1878, claiming the young wife, and she was buried firm in the faith of the Baptist Church. To the Doctor and his first wife were born these children; Noel, born June 5, 1874, now a prosperous farmer of Morgan County, Ill., married Florence Kindred and has one child, - Minnie; Luther, born December 27, 1876, also farming in Morgan County, Ill., married Elizabeth Maple and had two children, - one which died at the age of eight years and Lewis H.; and Minnie, who died in infancy, meeting an accidental death. On March 4, 1880, Dr. Wiley was married (second) to Sarah C. Hughes, and to this union there were born four children, of whom Harry died at the age of sixteen years; Henry, who received a fine education, came to Illinois with his parents in 1893, took the Civil Service examination and at the age of twenty years received an appointment to the United States Mail Service, and now resides at Buffalo, I1., and runs from Chicago to Quincy. He married Pearl Lester, and has two children, - Harry Lester and a daughter born October 14, 1910; Sarah E., the wife of John Bass, a merchant of Billings, Mont., and had three children, of whom one died in infancy; and Minnie, the wife of Oliver Wynne, of Norfolk, Va., a commercial salesman, has one child, - Winston Wiley.

In 1882, having accumulated a fair competency, Dr. Wiley decided to enter the field of medicine as a practitioner, having done much reading and studying along these lines during his spare time, and subsequently in 1885, he entered the University of Louisville, Ky., from which he was graduated in 1887, with high honors. He at once located in Scott County, Ky., where he commenced the practice of his profession and there continued with much success until 1898, when he located in Nortonville, Morgan County, Ill., and continued to enjoy a large practice. In order to get better schooling facilities for his children, Dr. Wiley removed to Alexander, Ill., later went to Franklin, and finally, in 1901, he located in New Berlin, where he has built up a fine practice and formed stanch friendships. Dr. Wiley has always been a close and thorough student and keeps constantly in touch with all that is going on in the world of medicine by perusal of the leading periodicals of his profession. He has a well-filled library and a large laboratory where he prepares his own prescriptions. He has always been known as a skillful and steady-handed surgeon and his success in this line has given him more than local reputation. Always public-spirited and honest, it is his plainly expressed opinion that those whom the people honor with election to places of public trust should give a fair account of themselves, and as a City Councilman he has always taken the best of care of his constituents and made a record that will not be forgotten by the tax-payers. Socially he is connected with the A. F. & A. M., Franklin Lodge, No. 616, New Berlin Lodge, No. 831, I. O. O. F., the Modern Woodmen of America and the Court of Honor. With his wife, he is affiliated with the Baptist Church, Mrs. Wiley also belonging to the Ladies' Aid and Missionary Societies. Dr. Wiley's politics are those of the Republican party.

On August 17, 1903, Dr. Wiley was married to Mrs. Mary (Bachmann) Long, and to this union has been born one son: Cecil Bachmann Wiley, December 23, 1904.

WILKINSON, Reuben (deceased), a halfbrother of Mrs. James L. McKee, of Cotton Hill Township, and for many years one of the prominent representatives of the old pioneers of Sangamon County, was born in Kentucky, December 11, 1821, and died in Taylorville, Ill., Saturday, November 12, 1910, aged nearly eighty-nine years. During his long and necessarily eventful life, Mr. Wilkinson witnessed many changes, participating in many of them. For eighty years, Illinois was his home State, for he was but little over seven years old when his parents made their exodus from the Blue Grass State to this. Settlement was first made in Christian County, but in 1848, Mr. Wilkinson settled in Sangamon County, never to leave until he went to his last home.

Coming to Taylorville at a time when it needed the wise action of a born financier, Mr. Wilkinson was an important factor in building up the place, being identified with all of its leading enterprises, giving a whole-souled and public-spirited support to improvements and advanced ideas with regard to civic affairs. Among other enterprises, he established a flouring-mill, extending this industry until he was one of the leaders in his line up to the time of his demise. He did much to develop the coal interests of Taylorville; built houses suitable for laboring men, selling them on monthly payments suited to the means of the purchaser, and never taking undue advantage of anyone who transacted business with him. One of his policies was to retain his old employes in preference to younger ones, even if they were not so active as the latter.

denomination, of which he was a member, nhad secured a fine brick structure in which to worship. He was also liberal in his donations to other churches and to all charitable institutions and movements, and probably his private beneyolences were much larger than any of which the public had knowledge. A Republican in polities, Mr. Wilkinson was also an enthusiastic advocate of Prohibition, and exerted a powerful influence for good in this as well as other directions.

In June, 1846, Mr. Wilkinson enlisted in Company A, Fourth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, for service during the Mexican War, under Col. E. D. Baker, and participated in the battles of Cerro Gordo and Vera Cruz. In addition to the seven dollars per month paid him while in service, Mr. Wilkinson received a land warrant for 160 acres of land which he patented in Sangamon County.

Pre-eminently a leader of men, and a builder up of destinies, Mr. Wilkinson possessed the ability to judge accurately of character, and was seldom mistaken in his estimates. Having once bestowed his friendship upon a man he seldom found it necessary to withdraw it, and attached many to him because of his many kindly deeds and real ability as a business man.

WILLIAMS, George W. (deceased), who spent most of his active life farming in Sangamon County, was a veteran of the Civil War and was honored and esteemed by all who knew him as a man of integrity and reliability. He was born in Steubenville, Ohio, September 7, 1842, and was a son of Thomas and Rachel (Jackson) Willjams, the former a native of Ireland and the latter born in Maryland. Thomas Williams was brought to America at the age of five years, and after reaching a suitable age engaged in farming near Steubenville, remaining there forty years, then removed to Assumption, Ill., where he spent the remainder of his life. He purchased 360 acres of land in Christian County and there carried on farming with success, developing his farm and making many improvements in the way of buildings. There he and his wife both died, being buried in that vicinity. They were parents of three sons and a daughter: one son, Leander, is a telegraph operator and lives in Chicago; Andrew resides at Villisca, Iowa, where he is a successful farmer and extensively engaged in hog-raising; George W., and the daughter is deceased and buried at Assumption, Til.

In boyhood George W. Williams attended the public schools of Steubenville, Ohio, and was reared on a farm, being early taught to perform his share of the work on his father's farm. He came with the family to Illinois at the time of the Civil War, and soon afterwards joined Company K, Fifth Ohio Cavalry, serving during the remainder of the war. He participated in many battles and was taken prisoner and confined some time in Libby Prison.

At the close of the war Mr. Williams returned to Assumtion, but soon afterwards removed to Sangamon County and engaged in farming, which occupation he continued the remainder of his life. He was industrious and progressive and brought his farm to a high state of cultivation. He owned land in Section 35, Curran Township, and had a comfortable home thereon. He had the good-will and esteem of his neighbors and was actively interested in the welfare of his community. He was well known in the neighborhood where he had. lived so many years, and his loss was keenly felt in many circles. He was a devout member of the Methodist Church, while Mrs. Williams belongs to the Christian Church at Loami.

The marriage of Mr. Williams took place in Jacksonville, Ill., October 3, 1878, when he was united with Louise, daughter of Samuel Wilson. Mrs. Williams was born near Jacksonville, in Morgan County. Mr. Wilson was born in Kentucky in 1813, and came to Morgan County at the age of thirteen years, becoming an influential and successful farmer there. He helped drive the first stakes when the village of Jacksonville was laid out. The land which he purchased there was worth but $1.25 per acre at that time, but so great has been the development of central Illinois since that it is now worth $200 per acre. Mr. Wilson died December 4, 1902, at the age of ninety years, and his wife, who was a native of Morgan County, died in 1856, being buried in the old Flynn grave-yard. Seven sons and four daughters were born to this couple, and of these four sons and one daughter (Mrs. Williams) survive. Three sons, John, Elias and Robert, served during the Civil War as members of the Illinois Volunteer Infantry. A daughter was born to Mr. and Mrs. Williams, Mae, now the wife of Frank Cloyd, and they live one mile north of Loami, being parents of five children - Lee, Millard, Grace I., Arthur F. and Russell H. An adopted son, Ralph Williams, born in Springfield, June 14, 1859, lives with his mother on the home farm. Mr. Williams died August 7, 1906, on the farm now occupied by his widow, and was buried in Chatham Cemetery.

WILLIAMS, Henry H. - It has been truthfully said that the nation's strength lies in its agricultural interests - that without them the country could not thrive and prosperity would be a thing of the past. The men in whose hands the agricultural interests rest should be of the type that will be of benefit to the country, men with clear minds and ideas, progressive methods and industrious habits. Henry H. Williams was for many years engaged in farming in Sangamon County and knows the business of agriculture in all its branches. He is a native of the county, having been born in Rochester Township,

July 30, 1840, a son of Samuel and Jane L. (Trotter) Williams. Samuel Williams was born May 26, 1800, in Vermont and in youth removed to Indiana, but in 1822 came to Sangamon County, Ill., and after teaching school at Rochester for several years, settled down to an agricultural life and was so engaged until his death. His wife, a native of Kentucky, came with her parents to Sangamon County in 1820.

Henry H. Williams secured his education in the country schools near Rochester, and his youth was spent much as that of any farmer's son. As soon as he was able he began to do his share of work about the home farm, and in this way learned the calling from the bottom up, gaining training that was of much value to him in the years following. His entire active career was spent as a farmer, he being so engaged came to Springfield, and has there resided since, until his retirement in 1895, at which time he owning his own comfortable home. He is one of the county's old residents, and has seen many changes take place during his long and useful life. His religious connection is with the Christian Church.

On March 18, 1877, Mr. Williams was married in Sangamon County to Catherine E. Rhodes, who was born in Maryland, May 26, 1845, from which place she accompanied her parents in 1865 to Illinois. They settled on a farm and lived there until the time of their deaths. One son was born to Mr. and Mrs. Williams, Charles H., who married Miss Fannie Spence, of Springfield, and they had the following children: Homer H. is living; Luther, deceased; Iva Jane, is dead; Mable, Walter R. and an infant, living.

WILLIAMS, Jacob, was born in Ohio, January 19, 1844, son of Samuel S. and Isabella (Horn) Williams, the father born in Virginia, February 23, 1812, and the mother in Pennsylvania, in 1826. Little is known of the grandparents other than the fact that they were natives of Virginia and Pennsylvania. Samuel S. Williams was a cabinet-maker and went from his native State to Pennsylvania, thence to Ohio, and finally settled in Illinois. He located first in Logan County and later came to Sangamon County, where he died. Jacob Williams acquired most of his education as a result of

He lived on a farm as a boy and was always fond of outdoor sports and pastimes. He went with his family from Ohio to Tllinois in 1852, and soon after to Sangamon County, which has since been his home. :

August 1, 1862, Jacob Williams enlisted in Company D, One Hundred Sixth Illinois Infantry, at Pulaski, Ill., served three years, and was mustered out July 12, 1865, at Pine Bluff, Ark. He was wounded in the leg and spent about six weeks in a hospital. He participated in battles at Forest Raid, Memphis, and other points. For sixteen months he served as Chief Orderly in the office of the Provost Marshal at Memphis, Tenn., then was ordered to the front and took charge of the postoffice at Pine Bluff, where he served twelve months as Postmaster, being relieved to be mustered out, in 1865. He won a record of which he may well be proud and he is a member of the G. A. R. Mr. Williams was married, at Springfield, in April, 1873, to Miss Bridgie Galvin, who was born in Springfield, January 21, 1857, daughter of Daniel and Honoria (Foley) Galvin, natives of Ireland, and the father a veteran of the Civil War. Her grandparents were also natives of Ireland. Three children were born

Honoria E., July 17, 1878. The other child, Samuel C., who was born July 17, 1874, died in childhood. Honoria married W. H. Garrison, and they reside at Culbertson, Mont. Harry J. married Augusta Mueller, and they live on a farm five and one-half miles east of Springfield. Mr. Williams is one of the old residents of Springfield and is held in high esteem by all who know him, as a useful, public-spirited citizen. He is a member of the Baptist Church and a stanch Republican. For many years he has worked at the trade of carpenter and is a skillful and industrious workman. The family reside at 629 North Eighteenth Street.

WILLIAMS, John (deceased), who for many years was engaged in the Rolling Mill business in and around Springfield, Ill., was born in Wales, in 1862, and died in Springfield in 1896. He was a son of James and Catherine (Lewis) Williams, natives of Wales, the former born in 1831 and the latter in 1829. They came to America in 1851, locating in Springfield, where the father worked at his trade of iron worker until his death in 1878, the mother surviving until 1882. Children as follows were born to this couple: William, John, Eddie, Thomas, James, and Maggie, who died at the age of seven years.

John Williams was educated in the schools of Pittsburg, Pa. and Springfield, Ill., where his parents resided for a short time, and his first work was in the rolling mills of the latter city. At the age of twenty years he secured this employment and continued to work in this line until his death, when he left his widow a beautiful Home, in which she and her children now reside. Mr. Williams was one of those.who helped to sink the Jones and Adams mine.

In 1885 Mr. Williams was married, by the Rey. Hines, of the Episcopal Church, to Emma Cartwright, who was born in Johnston, Pa., in 1855, daughter of John Cartwright, a native of Wales, who was born December 25, 1880, and died October 16, 1872. Mrs. Williams' mother, Mary (Reece) Cartwright, was born in Wales in June, 1830, and died September 13, 1883. The following children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Cartwright: Margaret, wife of Thomas H. Pritchard, a well-to-do coal-miner of Springfield; William and Edward, of Springfield; Mary Ann, the wife of William Dunn, of Terre Haute, Ind. ;

Emma, who became Mrs. Williams; Eliza, the wife of Frank Ammond, of Alabama City, Ala. ; David, who died when thirty-two years old; and Katie, the wife of John Newton, of Terre Haute, Ind.

Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Williams: Margaret, the wife of Martin Spence, a successful contractor of Springfield, born April 12, 1886; Mamie B., born May 20, 1889, employed at the Illinois Watch Factory; and Jennie B., born April 12, 1892, also working at the Illinois Watch Factory. Mr. Williams was a member of St. John's Episcopal Church.

WILLIAMS, Col. John (deceased), pioneer, leading business man and prominent citizen of Springfield and Central Illinois in early history, was born near Owingsville, Bath County, Ky., September 11, 1808, the son of James and Hannah (Mappin) Williams, his father being of Welsh descent and a native of Virginia, while his mother was of Scotch-Irish parentage and born near Pittsburg, Pa. Thus descended from Welsh and Scotch-Irish ancestry, he inherited the traits of energy, enterprise, and moral and business integrity which characterized the several branches of his family. =

In 1823 his parents came in covered wagons with a party of friends to Illinois, first settling at Indian Point, three miles north of Athens, then in Sangamon (but now a part of Menard) County, there entered government land and, building a log cabin, there spent the remainder of their lives. At this time the son John was employed as a storeboy by J. T. Brian, of Owingsville, Ky., but in the fall of the following year, in company with several Kentucky neighbors, he came on horseback to Illinois. After spending two weeks with his parents he went to Springfield and there found employment by Major Elijah Iles, the first merchant of the place, receiving a salary of ten dollars per month with board. At that time the Iles store occupied a rough-hewn log house, the oldest building in Springfield, situated on what is now the southeast corner of Second and Jefferson Streets. In a book of pioneer reminiscences written by Major Iles in the latter years of his life, the pioneer merchant says: "Soon after opening my store my father sent me from Kentucky a youth, aged sixteen, a son of one of his valued neighbors, to act as storeboy and clerk. This youth was John Williams, now better known as Col. Williams. He proved to be a valuable assistant, and lived with me as one of the family until 1880, when I sold my goods to him and established him in business."

Major Iles showed the appreciation of his employe's service by paying him $30 increase on his first year's salary, and continuing his employment for the next five at $200 per annum. During this period Mr. Williams was gaining a business experience and extending his acquaintance with early settlers of Sangamon County, which proved most valuable in his future mercantile career of Over fifty years. At the end of his service with Major Iles, he bought the store of his employer, paying therefor in four quarterly payments, and starting out with a capital of $300, which he had saved from his salary during the preceding six years.

When the Iles store was first started, the goods were bought at St. Louis and brought by flat-boats to what is now the city of Beardstown, and thence transported by wagon to Springfield, and this was continued for some years after Mr. Williams became proprietor. When going to St. Louis to replenish his stock he was accustomed to carry his money in saddlebags on horseback, and these were often dropped behind the door of the tavern or stopping place, but without suffering any loss. At this time it was often necessary to cut the silver coin in pieces to produce the needed fractional currency. For two years this store was without local competition, and customers were accustomed to come a distance of fifty to eighty miles to trade there. <A large share of the trade was with Indians, who brought with them their furs and other pelts for traffic. The whites used silver coin or bartered home-made jeans, cotton und linen cloth, honey, beeswax and farm products in the purchase of goods. In 1823 a postoffice was established which was conducted in the Iles store, and for many years Mr. Williams officiated as Postmaster. Mr. Williams' residence in Springfield covered the period of the "deep snow" of 1830-31 and the Black Hawk War of 1832, and in the latter he served as a volunteer with Abraham Lincoln, Major Iles, John T. Stuart and other well-known citizens of Sangamon County. 5

About 1835, Mr. Williams' store was removed to the southwest corner of Washington and Fifth Streets, Robert Irwin (afterwards a banker) then becoming a member of the firm under the firm name of Williams & Irwin. Later the store was removed farther east on Washington Street, Jacob Loose being a partner for a short time, and this continued its location during the remainder of Mr. Williams' mercantile career, his son-in-law, George N. Black, becoming a member of the firm in 1850. During most of this period it was the most extensive mercantile establishment in the city of Springfield. The history of the dry-goods store of Edward R. Thayer, still in existence in Springfield, is more nearly contemporaneous with that of Mr. Williams' than any other, and before the days of the railroad, Mr. Williams and Mr. Thayer used frequently to make their trips in company by stage-coach to Philadelphia, to replenish their stock of goods.

Mr. Williams was married March 31, 1840, to Miss Lydia Porter, a native of Lima, Livingston County, N. Y., but at the time of her marriage making her home with her sister, Mrs. Elijah Tles. Six children were born to them, namely: Louisa Iles (the late Mrs. George N. Black), Albert Porter, John Edward, Julia Jayne (the late Mrs. Alfred Orendorff), George and Henry Carter. The two older sons, Albert P. and John

While Col. Williams' prominence as a private citizen and business man was widely recognized, he also served in a number of important public positions. These included the treasurership of the Illinois State Agricultural Society, to which he was chosen on the organization of the Society in 1858, and in which he served six years, later being chosen Treasurer of the Illinois State Importing Association. In 1856 he was nominated on the Republican ticket for Congress from the Springfield District, and although he failed of election, ran some 2,000

On the outbreak of the Civil War he was appointed by Gov. Yates Commissary 'General for the State of Illinois, serving most efficiently in that capacity for some six months and until the commissary service was assumed by the General Government, although he continued to aid in caring for soldiers arriving in Springfield, either on the way to or from the field, during the war period; also served as head of the Illinois State Sanitary Commission for the last two years of the war. By appointment of President Lincoln he acted aS Government Disbursing Agent in the construction of the United States Court House and Postoffice Building in Springfield, during that time some $320,000 passing through his hands. While in the mercantile business he opened a private bank for the accommodation of citizens of Springfield which, soon after the passage of the National Banking Act in 1863, became the First National Bank of Springfield, of which he was President for eleven years. Other financial interests with which he was associated included the building of the Gilman, Clinton & Springfield Railroad (now a branch of the Illinois Central) and the Springfield & Northwestern (now a part of the Chicago, Peoria & St. Louis Line), serving as President of the latter. Williams Township in Sangamon County, and the village of Williamsville, in that township, were both named in his honor.

At the time of the great Union Mass Meeting of September 3, 1863, Col. Williams acted as Grand Marshal of one of the most imposing processions ever seen in Springfield. Being a close friend of Mr. Lincoln, after the death of the latter in 1865, he was selected as a member of the committee to proceed to Washington and accompany the funeral cortege of the Martyred President to Springfield, also acted as one of the honorary pall-bearers at the funeral, and still later served as a member of the Executive Committee in supervising the erection of the Lincoln Monument. A man of simple, unassuming manner, but public-spirited of high integrity and sterling worth, Col. Williams commanded universal respect by his personal merit. His death occurred at the home of his daughter,

WILLIAMS, Joseph (deceased). - Those who have passed to their last reward are tenderly remembered by their families and friends if their lives were worthy of such gratitude, for it is only when a man has left this world that his deeds assume their rightful character. When Joseph Williams died the entire neighborhood mourned for the loss of an excellent citizen. He was born in Ohio, April 3, 1846, a son of Samuel and Louisa (Rash) Williams, the former a native of Maryland. The mother died when Joseph Williams was seven years old, and the father married again, his second choice being Abbie Van Gilder, also now deceased. The father was a farmer all his life and died on his property in Gardner Township. There were eleyen children by the first marriage and six by the second, and John Williams, of Springfield, is the only survivor of the first set of children.

When he was one year old Joseph Williams was brought to Gardner Township by his parents, they settling on 400 acres of land, and on this the lad grew up, attending the country school. He remained at home until his marriage, February 17, 1880, to Irene Matthews, of Dawson, born there July 15, 1860, daughter of John and Rachel (Lanham) Matthews, the former a native of Kentucky, who came to Illinois at an early date, dying at Dawson, where his wife, a native of Ohio, also passed away. They had children as follows: Martha E., Mrs. Charles B. McDaniel, of Springfield; William, of Dawson, married Hdna Vaughn; Taylor married Alice Brown; Sarah F., deceased; Mrs. Williams; Joseph died in infancy; Hattie Elizabeth, Mrs. Frank Tate of Springfield; and Mary, Mrs. James Drone, of Decatur. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Williams located on twenty acres in Gardner Township where his death occurred March 17, 1896. He was a faithful member of the United Brethren Church. A stanch Democrat, he gave his party a loyal support. Three, children were born to himself and wife: Jesse, of Upper Berlin, married Carrie Ives, one child, Violet; Carrie, Mrs. John Keeley of Springfield, and Clarence, at home. Mr. Williams gave earnest attention to the rearing of his children, strove to do his full duty as a neighbor and citizen, was faithful to his church obligations, and his place has not been filled, nor can it be, for men like him are rare, and his relatives and friends appreciate his virtues and still mourn his loss.

WILLIAMS, Milton - While most of the old soldiers have passed away, there are a number still left in Sangamon County, and these are given the honor that is their rightful due, county is proud is Milton Williams, a prosperous farmer of Woodside Township, born in Clinton County, Ohio, August 25, 1838, a son of Haines and Permelia (Myers) Williams, natives of Ohio and Pennsylvania, respectively. The parents came to Illinois in 1855, locating in Cooper Township, Sangamon County, where they bought forty acres of land, upon which the father died in 1863, and the mother several years later. There were seven children (four sons and three daughters), in their family, all of whom are deceased except Milton and his brother Joseph, who was a soldier as well.

The education of Milton Williams was secured in Ohio during his boyhood, but at the same time he was required to assist with work upon the farm. In the spring of 1859 he went to Pike's Peak, following the westward trend of that day, but six months later returned home. He then went to Gentry County, Mo., remained there four years. He entered the home militia, and after serving six months, was mustered out, and enlisted in the regular service, at St. Joseph, in Company B, Twenty-fifth Missouri Volunteer Infantry, which later was consolidated with the Twenty-first Missouri Engineers. Mr. Williams, with his regiment, participated in the battle of Shiloh, the two days fight at Kingston, made a forced march to Raleigh, and came back to Washington, D. C., whence they were sent to Louisville, Ky., to be mustered out, being discharged at St. Louis. Mr. Williams had become a Corporal. At the close of the war he went to Sangamon County to engage in farming, joining his father and remaining there for ten years. At the expiration of that period he moved to Christian County and farmed for another decade. He then moved to Springfield, where he spent the next fifteen years, after which he located in his present home, where he owns five acres of rich farm land.

The first marriage of Mr. Williams occurred in Springfield, in 1871, when he was united to Margaret Galpin, born in Illinois in 1851, and they had one child who died in infancy. He was married (second) in Springfield, in 1886, to Lucinda Dodd, born in Morgan County, Tll., daughter of an early settler and farmer of that county. The second Mrs. Williams died December 25, 1908.

In politics Mr. Williams was a Republican from the start, and has remained faithful to this party ever since. He belongs to Stephenson Post, G. A. R. of Springfield, and enjoys meeting his old comrades and with them reliving the stirring events of the days of the war. In religious faith he is a member of the Church of God, and is earnest in his support of its creed. He has been hard-working and thrifty, and has earnestly tried to do what he thought was his duty, both to his country and to his neighbor, and, in so living up to his conception of the Golden Rule, has established himself in the confidence of his community. :

WILLIS, Claude Joseph, one of the prosperous retired farmers of Springfield, residing at No. 1425 South Seventh street, was born in Wymborn, Devonshire, England, April 19, 1844. He is a son of Charles William and Ann Catherine (Rowe) Willis. Charles William Willis was a native of Devonshire, England, while his wife was born in Dublin, Ireland, Here, her father acted aS Surgeon General in the British Army, being stationed in that city. All the male members of her father's family were in either the army or navy. Her brother, George J. Rowe, was Secretary of the Royal Society of Arts in England, and spoke many languages, Charles William Willis and Ann Catherine Rowe were married in England, but came to America in 1855, locating in Jacksonville, where Mr. Willis was taken sick and died. He was an attorneyat-law. Mrs. Willis continued to reside in Jacksonvilie, teaching vocal and instrumental music, having been educated in a Catholic convent where special attention was paid to cultivating her talent. She sung all the Grand Opera scores in Italian and was noted for her ability. Because of her remarkable talent the Episcopal Church at Springfield secured her to play their pipe organ, which she did during the period when Abraham Lincoln was living in the city. Mrs. Willis was an artist of no mean ability, and Mr. Willis cherishes'a number of paintings executed by her. He and his mother had the privilege of being next door neighbors of the late lamented Dr. Newton Bateman, and under him, Mr. Willis studied in school, and until the death of that scholar, was his sincere admirer.

When Claude Joseph Willis was but ten years old, the family migration took place, and he attended school in Jacksonville until he was fourteen years old. He was then forced to go to work, obtaining employment on a farm, desiring to assist his beloved mother in every way. From farming he went into the stock business, but after his marriage in 1880, he began operating the home place of his wife's, consisting of 640 acres, and still owns it, although in 1892, he rented and he and his wife moved to their new home in Springfield, which has continued to be their place of residence ever since.

On December 23, 1880, Mr. Willis was married in Greene County, Il., to Jane Eliza Eldred, born in Carrollton, Greene County, October 24, 1839, daughter of Elon and Jane (Stuart) Eldred, the former of whom was born in Connecticut and the latter in West Winfield, Herkimer County, N. Y. They were married in the wife's birthplace April 6, 1824, and engaged in farming. Jane Stuart was a daughter of William and Jane (Hall) Stuart, the former a native of Scotland, and the latter of England. They lived and died in Herkimer County, N. Y., after coming to America. The mother of Mrs. Willis died aged sixty-seven years. There were the following children in the Eldred family: William, deceased; Mary Louise, deceased, married Lyman Wheeler; Lucius Stuart, deceased; Charles Homer, of Oklahoma, is Postmaster at Alva;

Mrs. Willis; and Julia C., widow of Robert Pierson. Jehosophat Eldred, grandfather ot' Mrs. Willis, was reared in Connecticut, but came to Illinois after his sons and died at Galena, Ill. Lucy Eldred, daughter of Elisha Eldred, was a niece of the father of Mrs. Willis, and was adopted by him when six months old. She was born June 12, 1826, and died July 15, 1844, Elon Eldred was a son of Jehosophat Eldred, a native of Connecticut. The Eldred family originally came to America from Wales. Jehosophat Eldred married Polly Langdon ana emigrated to Greene County, Ill., to engage in farming. After the death of his wife he went to Galena, where he died.