Sangamon County, Illinois - The whole text, 1912 (part 45 of 46)

Just after their marriage, Elon Eldred and wife left in an old-fashioned prairie schooner for Illinois. The trip took six weeks, but they finally landed in Greene County, near Carrollton. Jehosophat Eldred here owning a large tract of land, he gave his grandson 160 acres, and upon it the young couple began their pioneer life. Mrs. Hldred taught school and among her pupils were several grown men and women. After a period, however, they were attracted by the richness of the lead mines at Galena, and moved there, occupying a floorless log cabin. After eighteen months there, they responded to the call of agricultural life and returned to Greene County, buying the Eldred homestead, where they resided until death, he passing away May 14, 1869, and she September 18, 1875. In 1849, Mr. Eldred made a trip to California with two ox wagons, four yoke of oxen drawing each. The start was made on the day of the inauguration of Zachary Taylor as President. At St. Joe, Mo., the little the little party joined a train of some 100 wagons and Mr. Eldred was made Captain of the expedition. The trip was full of adventure. They had numerous fights with the Indians, and as this was the first train to cross the plains without having to unload to cross the rivers and other obstructions, it shows the skill of Captain Eldred. Not a wagon wheel was lost on the trip and the train arrived at its destination in good shape. A splendid horseman and athlete, Captain Eldred enjoyed various athletic games and tests of strength. During the Black Hawk War, he had responded to his country's call and served as a soldier. A cousin of his was also in the war. He was a Whig, later a Republican, although never caring for office. While not belonging to any church, he supported the Presbyterian denomination, to which his wife belonged. Always a strict temperance man, he became much interested in the Prohibition movement.

Mr. and Mrs. Willis belong to the Second Presbyterian Church and are active in its good work. Mr. Willis cherishes various family rel~ ics, among them being a locket, the one worn by Mrs. Willis in her portrait. It contains a portrait of Admiral Rowe, of the English Navy, and on the reverse side is a picture of the ship "Griffin" at Rio de Janeiro. This was painted by one of the noted English painters for Mr. Willis' mother, Ann Catherine (Rowe) Willis. Mr. Willis also possesses a medal won by his mother, while in the Catholic convent, of the Madonna and Child, and also of Christ stilling the waves, both of which are old and valued.

Representative people, Mr. and Mrs. Willis take an interest in their surroundings, and desire to see udvancement in every direction. Mr. Willis feels that he owes much to the gentle influence of his mother, who always tried to surround him and her other children with an intellectual life, and their superior intelligence was her reward.

WILLS, Ross Martin. - This is the age of young men, for into the hands of the present generation are being delivered the business interests of the land. The enthusiasm, strength and youth of young men are needed in this age of strenuous endeavor. Ability and knowledge are being placed in advance of experience, and young men are not slow to take advantage of this, rapidly forging to the foremost ranks and proving their worth in countless ways. One of these enterprising young men who are barely past their quarter-of-a-century milestone and yet are already in business for themselves in Springfield, is Ross Martin Wills, a prosperous young business man of the city. He was born at Ava, Ill., December 6, 1884, a son of Rolla and Josephine (Betts) Wills, natives of Illinois and Ohio, respectively. The father was a farmer, who spent twenty-five years in the agricultural regions of Murphysboro, Ill, then moving to a farm near Ava. This continued the scene of his activities until his retirement in 1905, to the village of Ava, which has continued his home ever since. He and his most excellent wife had seven children: Ollie of Los Angeles, Cal.; Fred of Ava, Ill.; Frank of Los Angeles, Cal.; Albert, of Herrin, Ill., Ernest, of Murphysboro, Ill.; Howard, of Springfield, and Ross Martin. The father was a Republican, but never sought for or desired office.

The boyhood of Ross Martin Wills was spent near Ava, where he attended school and helped his father on the farm. When he was eighteen years old he left school, going west to Los Angeles. During the years that followed, Mr. Wills found employment at various things in several of the large cities of the country, and gained a valuable knowledge ofsmen and conditions. He was a railroad man, and worked on street car lines, always being ready to turn his hand to whatever work lay nearest, and faithfully discharging the duties laid upon him. After seven years of traveling about, he came to Springfield, where his abilities and energies found expression in his present enterprise, the conducting of which is proving successful.

On April 8, 1907, Mr. Wills was united in marriage with Miss Lou Willis, who was born in Log Angeles, Cal. No issue. Mr. Wills is a Republican and is active in the work of his party.

WILSON, Bluford. - The family of which Bluford Wilson is a member has been prominently identified with Illinois since territorial days. The father and great-grandfather of Mr. Wilson bore an honorable part in military history, the latter, Isaac Wilson, of Virginia, having served three years as Sergeant of the Second Virginia State Line, under Captain Augustine Tabb, during the Revolution. At the close of the war he moved from Virginia to Fayette County, Ky. His son Alexander, grandfather of Bluford Wilson, was one of the earliest settlers of the Territory of Illinois, coming there from Union County, Ky., in 1808, and locating at Shawneetown in Gallatin County. Alexander Wilson became a man of prominence and influence and took an important part in the development of his locality and was greatly honored and esteemed by his fellows. He was a personal friend of Governor Edwards and Governor Ford. He was sent to the First Territorial Legislature held at Kaskaskia, for a short time the capital, serving as Chairman of important committees and as Speaker of the House, thus serving with ability and distinction in determining public policy in that day. He died in January, 1814, and as a memorial to his life and services to the Territory, the Legislature soon afterward passed an act granting the privilege of ferry franchise at Shawneetown to his heirs, and they have since held this privilege.

Harrison Wilson, the father of Bluford, was born in Culpeper County, Va., and was an Ensign in the War of 1812 and a Captain in the Black Hawk War. Later he was Colonel in the Fourth Illinois Militia. His wife, Catherine Schneider, was born at Gambskeim near Strasburg, Alsace, daughter of Augustus Schneider, and came to America with her father. One son of Harrison Wilson, James Harrison Wilson, was a graduate of West Point and greatly distinguished his name by his valuable service during the Civil War, being identified with the engineering department, and was Lieut.-Colonel and Inspector General, Army of the Tennessee, on Grants' Staff. Later, in the Department of the Mississippi, he performed such valuable services that he was made Brigadier General in 1863 and Major-General of Volunteers, April 20, 1865. July 28 of the following year at the close of the war and on the reorganization of the army, he became Lieutenant-Colonel of the Thirty-fifth United States Infantry, and was also brevetted Major-General in the regular army. After his return to civil life he became well-known as an author, also engaging in railroad and engineering operations in Southern Illinois. Another son, Henry S. Wilson, served as Adjutant, Captain and Major in the Eighteenth Illinois Volunteer Infantry. Bluford Wilson also served in the Civil War. Thus this family furnished three sons (all there were) who acquitted themselves most honorably in that struggle.

Ill., November 30, 1841, and began his education there. In conducting the ferry which was in the possession of the family, and in various other ways, he earned and saved money with which to gain higher education, and in 1859 entered McKendree College. Later he entered the University of Michigan, in the desire to fit himself for the profession of law, but his studies there were broken into by his patriotic desire to fight for the cause of the Union, and he enlisted, in 1862, in the One Hundred Twentieth Illinois, under Captain P. B. Pillow. Soon afterward he was given the rank of Adjutant, and in May, 1863, was promoted to rank of Captain. He became Assistant Adjutant General on the staff of Brigadier General Michael K, Lawler, taking part in the battles of Champion Hills, Black River and the siege of Vicksburg. He served on the staff of Generals Dana and Eugene A. Carr, in Texas, Louisiana and Alabama, and during the Red River Campaign was Adjutant General of the Thirteenth Corps, under the Command of General Lawler. He was brevetted Major for his services in connection with the siege of Spanish Fort. He served on the staff of General Carr to the close of the War, then, having won a military record of which he might well be proud.

After the close of the war Mr. Wilson resumed his studies in the University of Michigan, and in 1867 was admitted to the Bar in Shawneetown. In 1869, at the age of twenty-seven years, he received the appointment, by President Grant, to the post of United States District Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, which he held until, during Grant's second term, he was made solicitor of the United States Treasury. While serving in this responsible office, Mr. Wilson performed his duties with ability and distinction, and became known throughout the country for his valuable work in connection with the "Whisky Ring' prosecutions, as a result of which the ringleaders of this infamous combine were convicted and sent to the penitentiary. Having become interested with his brother, James H. Wilson, in development of railroads in southern Illinois and other States, Bluford Wilson resigned his official position in 1876 and since then has been a resident of the city of Springfield, gaining signal honor and distinction as a member of the Bar there. The two brothers played a most vital part in the upbuilding of central and southern Illinois in their construction of three important railroads, which at first necessitated the outlay of a large amount of capital with very small returns. These roads have since developed into large and paying enterprises, which have made possible the rapid progress of the localities through which they passed. Among the lines in which the Wilsons were interested were: the St. Louis & Southeastern, from Hast St. Louis to Shawneetown, and to Evansville, Ind., now part of the Louisville and Nashville, the line afterward extending to Nashville, Tenn.; the Cairo and Vincennes, part of the Big Four System; and

Mr. Wilson is best known as a corporation lawyer and a practitioner in the United States Courts, and is now the general solicitor for the Chicago, Peoria & St. Louis Railway Company ; he was for some time general counsel for the Illinois Southern Railway Company; Vice President and counsel for the Springfield Consolidated Street Railway Company, in which he is a stockholder. He is a member of the firm of Wilson, Warren and Child, Mr. Philip Barton Warren, of the firm, being his son-inlaw. In his private practice Mr. Wilson has been very successful, combining a thorough knowledge of the law with special study of the details of each case in hand, and showing remarkably clear insight into the intricacies of any question. He is an eloquent speaker, and while his arguments are delivered with vigor and earnestness, he never loses his dignified bearing, and always maintains his professional courtesy and fairness towards his opponents.

At the time of the Spanish-American War, Mr. Wilson offered his services to the Governor of the State, and although for various reasons the militia organizations were given preference in being sent to the front, he had ready to his call from 1,500 to 3,000 men for service, and was duly commissioned by Governor Tanner as Colonel. He is a member of Mendell Post No. 450, G. A. R., and has served as its Commander. He is also identified with the Illinois Commandery Loyal Legion. In political affiliations Mr. Wilson has been closely identified with the interests of the Republican party since its inception, with the exception of his difference in opinion in the year 1892, when he cast his ballot for Grover Cleveland. ;

July 3, 1865, Mr. Wilson was married to Miss Alice Warren Mather, a daughter of Captain James Mather, of Louisville, Ky., and five children blessed this union: Harry died in infancy; Jessie married Phillip Barton Warren; Lucy, wife of Ralph Vance Dickerman; Bluford, who died during his senior year at Yale, was a great athlete, the champion wrestler and wing shot, a fine student and a young man of great promise. Arthur Harrison, who graduated at West Point, is now First Lieutenant Sixth United States Cavalry and won great honor in battle in the Philippines where he was desperately wounded. Mr. Wilson and his family attend Christ Church (Protestant Episcopal), which he helped organize in 1888, and of which he has since served as Senior Warden. He is a member of the standing committee of the diocese and of the Board of Trustees, and has served as delegate to the general conventions held in Washington in 1898, in San Francisco, in 1901, at Richmond, 1904, and Cincinnati, 1910. Mr. Wilson has always manifested a strong interest in the welfare and progress of Springfield, by whose citizens he is regarded with pride and esteem. ý

WILSON, Edwin Augustus. - Some men are gifted beyond their fellows, possessing not only keen business sense, but also talent in other directions, which enables them to produce something that will live after them. Edwin Augustus Wilson, a real estate dealer residing at No. 520 South Second Street, Springfield, Ill., is an author of no mean ability and one of the leading citizens of the Capital City. He was born at New Windsor, Carroll County, Md., June 16, 1840, a son of George Washington and Sidney Ann (Stier) Wilson. The father was born September 24, 1814, in Queen Anne County, a son of Sweatman Wilson, born March 12, 1784, in the same county. Mrs. Wilson was born in 1820, in New Market, Md.. Mr. Stier was a lineal descendant of Rudolph Stier, the great

Bible commentator. This name is also associated with the Calverts of Maryland, immediate descendants of Lord Baltimore. The home of the Calverts was at Riverside, seven miles from the oe at Washington City, and was purchased by Henry J. Stier, of Antwerp, a lineal descendant of Rubens, the artist, and presented to his daughter, who was about to marry George Calvert. In the grave yard at Riverside an old tombstone bears this inscription: "Here lies the body of Rosalie Eugenia Calvert, wife of George Calvert, and daughter of Henry ag Stier, of Antwerp, who died March 31, 1831, aged forty- -three years." The father of Mr. Wilson of this record was a shoe manufacturer.

The education of Edwin A. Wilson was secured in the public schools of New Windsor, New Market, Mount Hope in Frederick and Carroll counties, Md., Baltimore County and the city of Baltimore. When only sixteen years old he taught in an academy, being assistant to the Principal, and took an examination at Westminster, the county seat of Carroll County, when about that age. He also taught in the public school at Union Bridge, Md. He left New Windsor when four years old, and lived with his , grandparents at New Market, Md. Losing his father at the age of eight years, he went to Hookstown in 1848, and in 1849 went to live with an aunt in Baltimore, who was very dear to him. He went with her to New Market, Md., in 1851 or 1852. In the latter year he went on a farm in the "Linganore Hills," of Maryland, where he learned lessons of thrifty economy which have never been forgotten. Between 1855 and 1856 he was in Union Bridge, and in 1859 or 1860 returned to Baltimore. In 1856 he read "The Conflict of Ages," '"Plutarch's Lives,' "Rollins Ancient History,' and similar works which did much to form his character. He feels that his education was gained more from his books and association than from the limited opportunities afforded him to attend school.

Mr. Wilson was in Baltimore during the riot of April 19, 1861. He was a stanch Union man, wearing the flag under the lapel of his coat. When Gen. Butler came to Fort McHenry and threatened to turn the guns on Baltimore, he gladly brought out the sign of his patriotism. Mr. Wilson's recollections of those stirring days when the nation was in danger are so interesting that it is regretted any of them are omitted from this biography, but space forbids their being given in full. He had unusual opportunities, going to Washington on May 1, 1861, and remaining there until the close of the war, during which time he was manager of a large military and trunk establishment, and in 1863 joined the United States Sanitary Commission. He attended President Lincoln's first reception at the White House and saw Gen. Scott there. He frequently met the President and was witness to some of the homely incidents in that great man's life that so endeared him to the nation. He was in the trenches at Washington for four days, having volunteered for the emergency when it was thought the capital was in danger, and did efficient work as a clerk in the Sanitary Commission. On January 19, 1866, while still in the service of the Sanitary Commission, he visited Springfield, to secure data from the office of Adj. Gen. Haynie, but not getting it at that time, visited other capitals, returning to Springfield in May and being successful. So pleased was he with that city that he decided to make it his home, and has lived there for over forty-five years.

On July 18, 1864, Mr. Wilson was married in Washington, to Cynthie Corwin Hannon, named after Tom Corwin, of Ohio, born November 5, 1843, in Charles County, Md., daughter of Henry M. and Julia (Longden) Hannon. Thomas Longden, an Englishman, resided in Alexandria, Va., and fought under Gen. Washington. His son, John Longden, grandfather of Mrs. Wilson, was also in the Revolutionary War. Edgar Snowden, first cousin of Julia

Longdon, lived in Alexandria, Va., where he edited and published the leading paper. Alexander Robey Shepherd, Governor of the District of Columbia during President Grant's administration, was a cousin of Mrs. Wilson. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Wilson are: Julian St. John, Harry Smith, Perty Edwin, Arthur Morehouse, Paul Morton, George Stanley, Winnifred, Ruth, Grace Hannon and Gladys Dulaney.

Something of a Bible student, Mr. Wilson has thought carefully on some of the subjects which engross those who have investigated religious matters, and has been a writer on these themes. He is the author of some dogmatic booklets. Believing in verbal Plenary inspiration, he is a pessimist as to the world's condition. He be-

Scriptures, in the Divinity of Christ, and in the personality of the Holy Ghost. He does not believe that the attitude of science, which is altogether of man, adds to or detracts from the truths of the Bible, which are of God. He believes in the premillenial, hence the imminent coming of Christ. Not consenting to the introduction of the sociological with what is called religion, in efforts to sway communities, for he believes that God deals with units, he is very conservative. He was reared a Methodist, but united with the Fourth Presbyterian Church in over thirty years. In 1908 he united with the First Presbyterian Church of Springfield, in May, 1866. In 1870 he united with the Third Presbyterian Church, and was an Elder in it for over thirty years. In 1809 he united with the Second Presbyterian Church. He was Superintendent of the Third Presbyterian Church Sunday School for many years, has been President of the State Y. M. C. A. and of the local Association of Springfield, and an officer in the State organization of Sunday Schools.

A very strong Union man during the war, Mr. Wilson changed his political views after the attempt to impeach President Johnson, and became a Democrat, but for the past quarter of a century has been an independent, voting for the man he conscientiously believes best fitted for the office. During 1861 he joined Federal Lodge No. 1, A. F. & A. M., and Beacon Lodge No. 15, of Odd Fellows, both of Washington. He has also belonged to many religious organizations and has lent his influence to promote the majority of the movements put on foot in Springfield during his residence there, that he thought would elevate society or advance the interests of the people. Exceedingly conscientious and honorable in his dealings, he is a man who ever carries his principles into everyday life, and has been a powerful factor in Springfield. His record for honesty of dealing and straightforwardness of purpose is such that his word is taken without further proof of the truth of his statement> Founded on so sure a foundation, his material success has been steady, and is certainly well merited.

WILSON, Harry W. - The unions are exciting considerable interest all over, the country, for through them the working man of today is able to secure better conditions in every way. The men who act as officers: of their several unions are deserving of more than ordinary praise; to them is due the credit for many of the successful arrangements which have been made, as well as for the educating of both employers and employes, so that they are able to meet existing conditions without unnecessary friction. One of the best known men in the trades union movement in that part of the State is Harry W. Wilson, of Springfield, a member of the cigar-maker's Union No. 388. He was born in Orbisonia, Huntingdon County, Pa., August 21, 1871, a son of George D. and Catherine (Markle) Wilson, the former born at Orbisonia, and the latter at Richfield, Juniata County, Pa. The father was an ore miner. The great-great-grandfathers on both sides of the house were early settlers of Pennsylvania, the paternal ancestor coming from Ireland and the maternal ancestor from Germany. George D. Wilson and three of his brothers served three years in the Civil War and three of

Harry W. Wilson attended the public schools of Orbisonia and Clearfield, Pa., and took a great deal of interest in athletic sports, especially base ball. He became a printer's apprentice, but ill health compelled him to abandon this calling for another, and he learned the cigar-making trade, which he has since followed, finally becoming foreman of Ball Brothers, cigar manufacturers. Mr. Wilson had the misfortune to lose his father when only nine years old, and he and his mother spent some years moving about, she being anxious to give her son the best advantages that lay within her power. In May, 1881, they came to Springfield, but returned to Pennsylvania in September of that year. They then made Clearfield, Pa., their home until February, 1890, when they returned to Springfield, only to leave it in February, 1893. After three years more at Clearfield, however, Mr. Wilson returned to Springfield in March, 1896, and has since resided in that city.

Mr. Wilson's work in behalf of his union deserved more than passing mention. Joining the Cigarmakers' Union May 6, 1891, he at once began taking an active part in the labor move- . ment, serving almost continuously since January 1, 1897, in the Springfield Federation of Labor. He was a Delegate a number of times to the Illinois State Federation of Labor, and also to the American Federation of Labor. He has been President, Vice President and Recording Secretary of the Cigarmakers' Union, and was three times chosen President of the Springfield Federation by an unanimous vote, serving two terms as member of the Executive Board of the Illinois State Federation of Labor as well. Meanwhile, he also became prominent as a Republican and was elected to the State Assembly in 1908 from the Forty-fifth Senatorial District, on that ticket. While in the Legislature, Mr. Wilson has been able to advance the cause of labor very materially and his work as its champion proves his earnestness and sincerity. He belongs to the Knights of Pythias, has held all the offices in the subordinate lodge and is now a member of the Grand Lodge of Illinois. He also belongs to the Red Men, Sons of Veterans and Modern Woodmen. He is serving his second term as Deputy Grand Chancellor of the Knights of Pythias and is also a member of the British Americans.

The marriage of Mr. Wilson occurred in Springfield, May 28, 1909, when he was united with Mrs. Agnes (Holloway) Buehler, born August 21, 1874, at Emporia, Kan. Mr. and Mrs. Wilson are members of the Lutheran Church, He is a young man of earnest purpose and decided will. Conscientious, broad-guaged, he understands men and conditions, and is constantly studying how to better the lot of his companions and yet not insist upon measures which will be difficult to carry out.

WILSON, Henry Clay. - The practice of law calls forth not only full legal knowledge and experience, but also those qualities which are requisite for the development of true manhood.

Henry Clay Wilson was educated at Central Normal College, in Indiana. He was brought up on a farm and alternated work on it with teaching until he opened his law office in Springfield in 1890, having then been a resident of the city for two years. Strong in his adherence to the Republican party, Mr. Wilson has been called upon to support its principles, and served as a member of the General Assembly of INinois during 1893 and 1894, and was the Republican nominee for Congress from the Twenty-first Congressional District in 1908 and again in 1910, but was defeated, owing to a Democratic majority. He is the founder of the Henry Clay Wilson Political School, which he established and incorporated in 1904, and is one of the best-known -men, politically, in his part of the State. He is a Mason, an Odd Fellow, a Knight of Pythias, and a Red Man; is a member of the Hamilton Club, of Chicago, and belongs to the Chamber of Commerce, of Springfield. He is ex-President of the Board of Education and is on the Board of Associated Charities. His sympathies are with the Presbyterian Church, of which he is an attendant.

In August, 1888, Mr. Wilson was married to Theressa McCoyne, and they have five children: Roscoe Blaine, Reed McKinley, Jennie June, Charles Francis Hugene and Robert Proctor.

Mr. Wilson has a large practice, and also' is deeply interested in real politics, having always preached and practiced integrity in political activities. His property holdings are confined to his excellent home in Springfield, where he and Mrs. Wilson entertain their wide circle of friends with true Southern hospitality.

WILSON, James. - Sangamon' County has its full quota of men-who fought in the Federal Army during the Civil War - men who left home and loved ones and gave of their best in order to defend the flag of their country. Members of the Grand Army of the Republic have always been revered and honored as types of the best citizenship, and this is as it should be, for patriotism is one of our principal characteristics. James Wilson, a veteran of the Civil War who is descended from fighting stock on both sides of his family, was born January 11, 1837, at Elizabethtown, Lancaster County, Pa., a son of Vincent J. and Catherine (Stager) Wilson. Vincent J. Wilson was always a resi- dent of Elizabethtown, where he was born iL 1808 and died in 1856, his business occupation being contractor and builder. His wife was born in Lebanon County, Pa., and died at Elizabethtown. Her father was a drummer boy in the Revolutionary War, while Mr. Wilson's father, the grandfather of James Wilson, served as Captain of a Pennsylvania company during the same struggle.

College. After leaving school, for a time he was engaged in farming near Crawfordsville, Ind., and then worked on the Miami Canal for several years, serving as Captain. Returning to Crawfordsville, he became proprietor of a cracker factory, bakery and grocery, but after a few years spent in this manner, decided again to take up an agricultural life and subsequently purchased a farm, which he operated until 1892, then he moved to Springfield, which city has since been his home. He at first conducted a commission business, but eventually became custodian of the G. A. R. hall, a position which he held for several years. He has been successful in a business way and has a comfortable competency, including his home and other valuable real estate.

member of Company A, One Hundred Fortysixth Regiment, Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and fought bravely until his discharge on the last day of August, 1865, at Baltimore, Md. His battles included Shenandoah, where he fought under General Hancock. He is a member of Stephenson Post, No. 30, Grand Army of the Republic, having been transferred from the post at Crawfordsville, Ind. He is a member of the West Side Christian Church.

Mr. Wilson was married in Crawfordsville, Ind., to Anna French, daughter of Major French, of that city, and she died in 1903, having been the mother of three children: E. H., living in Indianapolis, Ind.; Martha, the wife of A, Bannon, living at No. 202 North State Street, Springfield; and James F., a bridgebuilder and contractor, residing on Logan Avenue. In September, 1905, Mr. Wilson was married (second) to Mrs.. Elizabeth (Taylor) Ward, a native of Vermont, where her parents spent their entire life.

WILSON, John T., one of the prosperous and representative farmers of Sangamon County, is residing on Section 14, Island Grove Township, but was born in Buffalo Hart Township, May 2, 1859, a son of Thomas Wilson. The latter was a native of Scotland, having been born in Sochmaben, November 4, 1817, a son of James Wilson, also a native of Scotland, who married Jane Frood. In 1842, Thomas Wilson left Scotland for America, and after two years spent in eastern cities, in 1844 landed in Sangamon County. James Wilson continued to make his home wit his children until his death. Thomas Wilson, upon coming to Sangamon County, bought land in Clear Lake Township, where on January 15, 1850, he married Miss Jane Riddle, who was born in Logan County, Ohio, April 14, 1828. When but a child of nine she was brought in 1837, by her parents, to Sangamon County. The Riddle family than moved to Oregon in 1851. Mr. Riddle was a very prominent man, and when a railroad was built through his section, a town was called after him. Mrs. Wilson was one of ten children. After marriage Thomas Wilson and wife began their life together in Clear Lake Township, but later sold, buying land in Mechanicsburg Township, and in 1859 moved to Buffalo Hart Township. There John T. Wilson was born soon after their arrival. Mr. Wilson became the owner of 875 acres of rich farm land, and for ten years served as a member of the Board of Supervisors from Buffalo Hart Township, being elected on the Democratic ticket. He and his wife were of the old Scotch Presbyterian faith, in which he died March 18, 1901, his wife having passed away May 27, 1892. He was a wise, conservative man, whose love of justice made him give everyone a just meed of praise for deeds accomplished. Their children were as follows: an unnamed infant; Jane F. and Maximilla, twins, born April 4, 1852, the latter dying in infancy, but the former living to marry John R. Enos, of Denver, Col.; Willian R., born August 7, 1855, died in 1901; James, born October 28, 1857, died in infancy; John T.; Lillian H., born September 24, 1861, married Robert Constant, of Denver, Col.

John T. Wilson grew up on his father's farm, attending the district school and later Springfield Business College. He remained at home until he attained his majority, then rented land and began farming for himself, later taking full charge of the homestead. He was married December 17, 1890, to Jennie L. Taylor, born in Williams Township, January 21, 1871, daughter of Martin V. Taylor, now living retired, but formerly a prosperous farmer of the county. The Taylor children were as follows: J. Oryile, porn October 16, 1866, and now principal of the McClernand School of Springfield, married Jennie Oleson, and have three children: William A.. born April 13, 1869, married Mary Prittle and they live on the homestead; Mrs, Wilson; Alice M., widow of Charles N. Tilbury, who now resides with her father in Springfield; Savilla, also at home.

When Mr. and Mrs. Wilson were married they remained in Buffalo Hart Township until the death of the elder Mr. Wilson, but later bought 160 acres on Section 14, Island Grove Township, and from this time on have done everything they could to improve their property, erecting a handsome nine-room house, with all modern improvements. There, with their one son, they reside in plenty. and happiness. This promising young man, Thomas Taylor, was born September 28, 1892, and is being finely educated for any position he may be called upon to fill. Mr. and

Mrs. Wilson and son are members of the Presbyterian Church. They also belong to the Court of Honor, of New Berlin, while Mr. Wilson bedongs to the A. H. Y. & A. of New Berlin. He is a strong Democrat and has filled a number of township offices, his neighbors appreciating his excellent qualities and voting for him without reference to party ties. Both Mr. and Mrs. Wilson have many warm, personal friends here and in other townships, and are justly numbered among the representative people of the county.

WILSON, Thomas W. (deceased). - Many of the more pretentious business blocks, public buildings and residences owe something to the skill of the late Thomas W. Wilson, for many years a resident of Springfield. He was born in Ohio, in 1833, and died in Springfield in 1904. He was a son of Robert Wilson, a native of Ohio, who died when Thomas W. was young. His life was spent in farming. ae

The first marriage of Mr. Wilson occurred in Ohio, when he married Mary Holmes and after their first child was born, he came to Illinois, locating in Loami Township, where he followed his trade as a carpenter. His wife died in 1873, having borne him children as follows: Mary Alice, who was the widow of Henry Dill, died in August, 1911; Robert of Kansas City; Emily, widow of Frank Mingle; Samuel of Auburn; Thomas of Morgan County; Charles, deceased ; William, and Oscar, now deceased. On July 13, 1880, Mr. Wilson married Miss Katie Crull, no issue. She was born March 15, 1840, five miles east of Pawnee, on a farm, daughter of Henry and Fanny Elizabeth (Snodgrass) Crull, natives of Tennessee. The parents dying when Mrs. Wilson was young, she was taken by her aunt, Elizabeth Snodgrass, of Cotton Hill Township, and lived with her until her death, when Mrs. Wilson was twelve years of age, after which she worked in families until she married.

Until four years prior to his death, Mr. Wilson worked at his trade, and was recognized as an unusually good workman. In politics, he was a Republican. While not a member of any religious denomination, he was a good Christian man, and was never happier than when making others happy, and leading them into the path of right living. Mrs. Wilson is a member of the West Side Christian Church.

WILSON, Thomas Witcher, National President of the Royal Benefit Society, whose main office is located at 704 Ferguson Building, Springfield, Il., is a prominent citizen of that city and has taken an active part in local affairs for several years. Mr. Wilson is a native of Sangamon County, born January 7, 1856, a son of John and Mary (Cooper) Wilson. The great-great- - grandfather of Thomas W. Wilson served in the Colonial Wars and was killed during his service, the great-grandfather served in the Revolution, and the grandfather served under General Jackson in the War of 1812.

Thomas W. Wilson received his education in the common and high schools of Springfield, and after leaving school engaged in various Clerical work. For some time he has been connected with the Royal Benefit Society, and was chosen for his responsible office on account of his excellent business training and unquestioned reliability and uprightness. He has given the affairs of the organization able and efficient administration and the society is in a prosperous condition. He served some time as Chairman of the Board of Supervisors and four years as Recorder of Sangamon County. In his public service he has shown marked ability and has given satisfaction in every office he has held.

Mr. Wilson was married, in Springfield, in September, 1880, to Miss Mary W. Billington, and they became parents of four children, namely: William L., John L.; Mrs. Bess M., Smith, and Dorothy M. All except Mrs. Smith are unmarried and live at home. Mr. Wilson is a member of the Episcopal Church and fraternally is a member of the Odd Fellows, the Knights of Pythias, the Elks and the Masonic Order, having taken thirty-two degrees in the lastnamed order, including that of Knight Templar. He also belongs to the Sangamon and Country Clubs and to the Chamber of Commerce. He is of a social, friendly disposition and is well known in business and fraternal circles of Springfield, where he is popular and has won many warm friends.

WINDSOR, William, retired farmer and grocer, Section 31, Mechanicsburg Township, Dawson Rural Delivery No. 21, Sangamon County, was born in Butler County, Ohio, June 6, 1880, and is descended from several old American families, members of which have achieved celebrity. His parents were Thomas and Elizabeth (Doty) Windsor, natives respectively of Delaware and of Butler County, Ohio. His father emigrated from Delaware to Ohio and passed the remainder of his years there as a farmer, dying in 1847, when his son William was between sixteen and seventeen years old. He had, early in life, served his country as a soldier in the War of 1812. He left two sons and two daughters, and one son and one daughter survive.

William Windsor attended the public school near his boyhood home in Butler County, and helped his father with the farm labor till 1848, when he was about eighteen years old. Then he came to Sangamon County, Ill. and engaged in farming on his own account, eventually entering eighty acres of government land in Christian County, which he later sold. In 1884 he moved to Saline County, Mo., where he farmed till March, 1898, then returned to Sangamon County. He bought a farm near Rochester, where he lived seven years, until he rented the land and moved to Rochester, where he managed a grocery store about a year. He has lived on his present home place since Jan- uary 15, 1880, and conducts a grocery business there, having a good trade from all the surrounding country. In politics he is a Republican. He was Tax Collector for Rochester Township in 1895 and has filled the office of School Director with great credit during the past fourteen years. In religious faith he affiliates with the Christian Church.

In Clark County, Ind., on October 12, 1848, Mr. Windsor married Miss Sarah A. Long, who was born in that county, the daughter of a prominent farmer. She died December 21, 1861, having borne him two children, both of whom are dead. November 18, 1862, he married Miss Harriet E. Mull, born at Rochester, Ill., of parents who came there among the pioneers, from Virginia, and lived out their days in Sangamon County. Mrs. Windsor died Aprii ae 1903, deeply mourned by all who had known

WININGS, Samuel L. - The- growing desire on the part of the people to have their homes tastefully decorated has created an increased demand for artistic work, and those who can meet this demand find profitable employment for their time and energy. One of the most successful of Springfield's decorators is Samuel L. Winings, who was born in Grove City, Ill.. April 24, 1867, a son of Joseph and Lecty (Porter) Winings. The father was born in Akron, Ohio, while the mother was born in Grove City, Hl. Joseph Winings came to Grove City at an early date, settling on a farm which remained his home until his demise, fifteen years ago. During the Civil War he responded to the call of his country, and served in a cavalry regiment that was enlisted from Ohio.

Samuel L. Winings received a common school education in his native town, and learned to work on his father's farm. When he was seventeen years old he began learning the painter's trade, and worked at it for several years. Moying from Grove City to Mattoon, he continued as a painter, gradually adding interior decorating to his work. He continued to reside at Mattoon until 1906, when he came to Springfield. He has built up a large business, the quality of his work insuring continued patronage from those who have once employed his services. His artistic skill and keen perception make him one of the best men in his line in his part of the State.

In 1893 Mr. Winings was married, in Edinburg, Ill., to Ada Huggins, of Grove City. The Huggins family reside on a farm in the vicinity of Grove City; and conduct a livery stable, in addition to operating the farm. Mr. and Mrs. Winings have two daughters and two sons: Marie, Lottie, Ray and Eugene. Mr. Winings is a Methodist in religious faith and a Democrat in politics. All his life he has worked

WINN, Robert Lee (deceased), whose death occurred at Kansas City, Mo., July 24, 1908, was a traveling salesman by occupation. He was a native of Kansas City, born February 20, 1866, a son of Charles and Susan (Thomas) Winn. Mr. Winn was reared in Kansas City and was there married, December 4, 1892, to Miss Alice Pickrell, daughter of Abel George and Emma H. (Winn) Pickrell, who was born on her father's farm in Sangamon County. She was educated in the country schools and the Betty Stuart Institute of Springfield. Her father, Abel G. Pickrell, was a prominent and successful farmer and a veteran of the Civil War, having served three years, part of the time as Quartermaster of the regular army. Abel G. Pickrell was a son of Jesse A. Pickrell, and grandson of Abel Pickrell. The family were among the early settlers of Sangamon County, and helped very much in eall measures for advancing the general welfare and prosperity. Jesse A. Pickrell was the first of his family to come to the county, acquired two or three thousand acres of land, most of which he purchased at a price of about $2.50 per acre.

Robert L. Winn and wife had one child, George, born July 22, 1894, now attending school in Springfield. After the death of her husband, Mrs. A. P. Winn returned to her native eounty, and now resides at 414 Pasfield Avenue, Springfield. She has many warm friends in the county and is highly esteemed by all who know her for her many fine qualities and high character. She feels a justifiable pride in the record and position won by her ancestors, and has always felt a patriotic interest in the affairs of Sangamon County. She and her son have been residents of Springfield since about 1904, and before that time lived at Zanesville.

WINTER, William E. - The many advantages afforded by Springfield as a place of residence have influenced a number of men to settle there when they decide to retire from the activities of life. A well known and popular retired business man of the city is William E. Winter. He was born in Swanley, Kent, England, December 16, 1851, a son of Robert and Mary (Pucknaw) Winter, natives of Kent. The father who 'became manager of gas works in Kent, lived and died there as did his wife. They had six children, evenly divided as to sex, and five still survive. The grandfather on the paternal side was a shepherd, while the maternal grandfather owned a large estate in Kent.

After a boyhood spent attending school in his native place, William E. Winter worked during seven years in a paper factory in Kent, which is one of the largest of its kind in the world, but on July 9, 1869, he landed in New York City, having decided that this country would offer him the best opportunities for advancement. From New York he came direct to

Auburn, Ill., where for about a month he worked on a farm, then went to Macon, Ill., where he found employment on another farm, continuing there a year. His next employment was with the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Company, remaining in its employ a short time, when he came to Springfield. There he became cook at the Chenery House, leaving soon thereafter, to become pastry cook for the Leland Hotel. After a year, he left to embark in a confectionery business for himself, conducting it two years, when he sold out and engaged as engineer in the Springfield Rolling Mills, remaining in this capacity seven years, when, feeling the need of relaxation, he went back to England. For two years he remained there, but found that conditions had changed, and came back to Springfield to his old position as engineer, working in the Illinois Foundry. After several years there, he went into the Wabash shops, but sometime afterwards left, to enter the Egyptian Cement Works. After ten years there he retired, and since then has been enjoying a wellearned rest. Mr. Winter belongs to The Court of Honor, No. 25, and is interested in its work.

On June 30, 1873, Mr. Winter was married, in Springfield to Mary Pefferle, born at Napanoch, N. Y., July 6, 1853. The parents of Mrs. Winter came to Springfield in 1863. Her father was a machinist, and worked at his trade all his life. He was accidentally killed in a runaway, in 1887. By birth he was a German, but his wife was born in New York City. Six children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Winter: Gilbert resides in Springfield, being pressman in the Illinois State Journal office; Flora, wife of Jesse Harris, lives at Silvis, Ill.; Walter is a machinist in the employ of the Wabash Railroad Company; Harry is also in the employ of the same road as machinist; Etta, wife of George Burns, who is in the employ of the Gorey Spool Company; Iva is at home. There are six grandchildren in the family. Mr. Winter owns his home at No. 1729 Stuart Street, where he Has lived for the past twenty-nine years. He owns other valuable property in Springfield, which yields him a comfortable income. While a true Englishman, Mr. Winter is interested in the land where he has lived so long, and in which he has made his money. Like many of the retired men of Springfield, he is interested in securing good government, and is always willing to do his full share towards securing it.

WIRTH, Conrad (deceased). - There are those in Springfield today who well remember the days when the city was the home of the immortal Lincoln, who saw him pass daily on his way to his offices, and learned to know and love the kindly, homely face that was so soon to bear the impress of the nation's tragedy. These old residents of Springfield are proud of their memories of Lincoln and Douglas, and enjoy talking about them whenever occasion offers. Among the retired business men and capitalists of the city was the late Conrad Wirth, who had lived there since 1854. He was born in Wittenberg, Germany, October 16, 1827, a son of Conrad Wirth, also a native of Germany, who with his wife spent his life in his native land, dying there, He was a farmer, but early in life served in the great struggle with Napoleon.

The boyhood of the younger Conrad Wirth was spent on the home farm, and he received a good education in his native tongue, but in 1853 left Germany, coming to America via New Orleans. After two months spent in that city he went on to Cincinnati, and after a year there came to Springfield, which was his home until his demise. Being a young man of sound business sense, Mr. Wirth became associated with some of the substantial institutions of the city, including the Springfield Dairy, of which he was at one time owner. As he grew older, however, he gradually withdrew from business activities, retired although he retained his realty holdings, which were considerable, including his pleasant home at No. 114 Elliott Avenue.

The marriage of Mr. Wirth occurred at Springfield, February 7, 1864, when he was united with Mary Bierbaum, born in Germany, May 16, 1840. Her parents came from Germany to La Porte, Ind., in 1852, living there for two years, when they came on to Springfield, where and Clara, and is a member of the firm of Wirth & Gaupp, florists; Conrad, married Johanna Mester, tour children: Marie, Elizabeth N., Conrad and David; and Elizabeth, who died in 1886. Mr. Wirth was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, of which he was a substantial contributor, and in politics was a Democrat. Through hard work and frugality he succeeded in amassing a comfortable fortune, and was enjoying the fruits of his labors. Mr. Wirth died February 14, 1911, and is buried in Oak Ridge Cemetery.

WOMACK, Presley Barry. - lllinois sent thousands of her best men to the front to battle for the Union during the Civil War. She drew them from their ploughs, from their desks and from fitting them for the duties of private life. One of those soldiers who resumed farming activities upon his return, and now retired, is Presley Barry Womack, of Springfield. He was born in Wayne County, Ill., January 29, 1880, being a son of James and Elizabeth (Barry) Womack, natives of Bowling Green, Ky., the former born in 1791 and the latter in 1798. The father, who was farmer, emigrated west, locating in Wayne County, Ill., in 1825, and lived there until his death, in 1868, his widow surviving him, until 1878. He was Justice of the Peace for a number of years, as well as Road Commissioner, and

Presley B. Womack was brought up in Wayne County, being educated in its public schools, and trained in farm work by his father, remaining with him until he was twenty-five years old. He then began farming for himself, thus continuing until his retirement in 1894. Coming to Springfield, he lived retired for several years, and in 1901 entered the employ of the C. & A. Railroad Company as flagman, thus continuing for five months, when he accepted the same position with the B. & O. Railroad Company, but gave up all work in 1902. Upon coming to the city, he located at No. 414 West Carpenter Street, but recently purchased his residence at No. 119 West Reynolds Street. On September 10, 1861, Mr. Womack enlisted in Company I, Forty-eighth Ilinois Infantry, under Captain Galbraith, and acted as hostler for the officers. His first battle was that of Fort Henry, and later he was in the Battle of Shiloh. Mr. Womack remembers well the ilustrious Abraham Lincoln. When he was but a lad Mr. Womack hauled wood for the man who was later to become the head of the nation, and recalls the kindly consideration then shown him.

On February 11, 1855, Mr. Womack was united in marriage with Mahala Wheeler, daughter of John and Eliza (Ayres) Wheeler. They were Virginians by birth, who came to Illinois at an early day, first living in Gibson County, but later coming to Sangamon County, where they died. Mr. and Mrs. Womack had the following chil- 'dren: Susan, wife of Albert Prouty, a teamster; Henry L.; Martha wife of John Priestman; William S., book-keeper; Benjamin F., an electrician; Anna wife of William Koch, and four who are deceased. There are seven grandchildren in the family. Mr. Womack belongs to Stephenson Post No. 30, G. A. R., as well as to the Baptist Church. He is a Republican in political faith, being proud to support the party of Abraham Lincoln. He is one of the substantial men of the city and enjoys the confidence of those who know him.

WOODCOCK, John R., farmer, section thirtytwo, Mechanicsburg Township, Dawson rural free delivery twenty-one, Sangamon County, Tl., is a native of England. In all our history Englishmen have become American citizens greatly to America's benefit. Such a thrifty and patriotic citizen is the subject of this sketch. Mr. Woodcock was born in Norfolk, March 17, 1841, a son of Robert and Martha (Meddar) Woodcock, both natives of Norfolk. His parents never came to the United States. His father and his father's father were basket manufacturers, and the former continued his business in Norfolk till his death, which occurred in 1879. In the family were fourteen children, of whom only four survive - John R. Woodcock, William Woodcock of

Mr. Woodcock was educated in his native Albion and when a mere boy was bound out by his father to learn the wagonmaker's trade, at which he was employed in England till he came over the water. It was in 1866 that he sailed from Liverpool, landing fourteen days later in New York. After about three months spent in New York state, most of the time at Pines Plains, Dutchess County, where he was employed at farm work, he came to Sangamon County, arriving at Mechanicsburg before the end of the spring of the year mentioned. He found employment on the farms of John Bullard and George Pickrell and on other farms, and busied himself thus for several years, then for seven years, he had a wagonmaking enterprise at Mechanicsburg. Closing that out, he moved to the farm on which he now lives, which consists of forty acres which he had then recently purchased. He has since added twenty acres to it, making of it a fine farm of sixty acres. He has become a man of influence in the township, acting politically with the Republican party. In his religious affiliations, he is a Methodist.

Mr. Woodcock married Miss Alice Ragan, in Mechanicsburg, November 21, 1880, the Rey. P. H. Kiser officiating: She was born in Hagerstown, Md., November 9, 1859, a daughter of Jonathan Ragan. Her father was born in Maryland, there learned the printer trade, and worked at it all his life, residing in Mechanicsburg from 1866, when he moved there from Hagerstown, to 1906, when he died. He was postmaster at Mechanicsburg for two terms. His widow still resides there, aged eighty-one years. They had eight children, of whom five survive. Mr. and Mrs. Woodcock have had seven children, six of them daughters, namely: Robert resides with his parents; Fannie married Elmer Bough, a farmer of Mechanicsburg Township, issue, - Willit, Alice and Lewis; Lena married George Clement of Mechanicsburg, issue, - Robert ; Pearl married Elmer Stevens of Sims, issue - - Earl; Letia married Anthony Thoele of Teutopolis; Fern and Helen, also at home. Mr. and Mrs. Woodcock have five grandchildren.

WOODCOCK, William, of Mechanicsburg, Sangamon County, is a brother of John R. Wood- = cock, a sketch of whom appears in this work. He was born at Docking, Norfolk, England. July 21, 1845, a son of Robert and Martha (Maddar) Woodcock, natives of Norfolk. The father was a manufacturer of fruit baskets for the trade in England. He died in England, aged seventy-one years, and his widow when she was eighty years old. Of their family William and John R. Woodcock, of Sangamon County, are the only representatives in America. Two of their sisters are living in England, Mrs. Mary H. Land, wife of a baker, at Wells, Norfolk, and Mrs. Harriet Stonex, wife of a carpenter and wheelwright, in Fieldgaling, Norfolk. William Woodcock attended schoo] in England and at twenty-one had completed a seven years' apprenticeship to the basketmaker's trade with his father. He worked at his trade in England till 1869. Then he took passage on a steamship from Liverpool to New York and was two weeks making the voyage. He came west to Buffalo, Sangamon County, and has since farmed continuously, having followed his trade of basketmaker occasionally, and has lived in the vicinity of Mechanicsburg for forty years.

October 18, 1875, Mr. Woodcock married, at Springfield, Miss Mary De Sousa, who was born in that city April 18, 1859, of parents who were natives of Portugal. The De Sousas came to Springfield so early that some of their neighbors were Indians and they lived there during all their after years. Mrs. Woodcock had a sister who has passed away. To Mr. and Mrs. Woodcock have been born nine children, seven of whom are living: the eldest, Agnes, is the wife of John Hiner, and lives in Springfield ; William is a citizen of Mechanicsburg; Emma, wife of Mayo Dragoo, lives in St. Louis, Mo.; Hattie, widow of Hugh Law, lives in Springfield; Theodosia is in California; Henry B. and Bertha are members of their parents' household. Mr. and Mrs. Woodcock have three grandchildren, They are useful and influential members of the Methodist church.

WOODING, Daniel James, has built up a good business in the line of real estate, in Springfield, Ill, and vicinity, during the last. few years. He has made a specialty of erecting cozy and substantial cottages, and these have met with a ready sale. He is a man of good business principles, has ability in the line he is following, and gives careful attention to the details of his work. Mr. Wooding was born in London, England, February 4, 1860, and is a son of Daniel Joseph and Mary (Brooks) Wooding, the former born in Yorkshire, England, and the latter in Cambridge. The father was employed in the English mail service. The early education of Daniel James Wooding was acquired in his native country, and he later attended school in Burlington, Iowa, where with his parents he arrived in 1870, from England. At the age of thirteen years Mr. Wooding entered the office of the "Burlington Hawkeye," then under the management of the late Postmaster-General Frank Hatton and Robert Burdette, the famous humorist and author. He had previously spent two years working in the office of Charles E. Perkins, Superintendent of the Burlington & Missouri River Railroad Company, at Burlington, where he began his business career. After spending a decade in the office of the "Hawkeye," Mr. Wooding launched several crafts on the journalistic sea on his own account, as follows: "The Justice' and "The Western Herald," at Burlington, and "The State Topics," "Interstate Index" and "State Manual," at Springfield, all of which prospered under his management. He located permanently at Springfield in 1893. He spent some time on the road as representative of a Chicago commercial agency, and afterwards identified himself with real estate business, for which he has always had a predeliction. He owns property in California and Texas, and considerable in the City of Springfield.

October 24, 1884, Mr. Wooding was married, at Burlington, Iowa, to Miss Augusta C. Bennett, who was born at Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, daughter of George M. and Esther A. Bennett. Her father was a volunteer soldier in the Civil War and is now prominent in the growth and progress of San Antonio, Tex., where he is a large property owner, contractor. and builder. One child has blessed the union of Mr, Wooding and his wife, James Bennett, born December 27, 1897. Mr. Wooding is a member of the Christian Church and in politics is Independent. He is an honorary member of the International Typographical Union and belongs to the Modern Woodmen, Knights of Pythias and Business Men's Association.

WOODMANSEE, Robert Ellis, editor "Illinois Tradesman" and Secretary of the Springfield Federation of Labor, was born in Scottville, Macoupin County, Ill., November 17, 1864, the son of John Fletcher and Mildred (Frazer) Woodmansee. The father enlisted at Carlinville as a volunteer in Company B, One Hundred and Twenty-Second Illinois Volunteer Infantry during the Civil War, and, after serving three years, he removed to Waverly, Morgan County, where he resided continuously until his death on September 24, 1905. He was engaged in the mercantile business.

Robert E. Woodmansee was educated in the Waverly High School and Jacksonville Business College, and being a member of a large family, worked most of the time when not in school He was engaged as newsboy on the railroad for a time, but later became clerk in a retail store until 1888, when he turned his attention to newspaper work in connection with the "Illinois State Journal." In 1897 he became proprietor of the "Illinois Tradesman," a weekly labor paper, which he has conducted continuously to the present time with gratifying success. The paper is free from debt, and Mr. Woodmansee is owner of the home which he occupies at 839 Henrietta Street in the city of Springfield. He was also Secretary of the Springfield Chamber of Commerce, is serving a five-year term as member of the Springfield Board of Education (1908-18), and for the past fourteen years has been Secretary of the Springfield Federation of Labor, an organization to which he has deyoted most zealous attention.

Mr. Woodmansee is a Methodist in religious belief and in political convictions a Republican, but has not been an aspirant to political office, preferring to devote his attention to the interests of the organization of which he has been a zealous and prominent member for so many years. On May 24, 1900, he was married in the city of Springfield to Miss Frances J. Stevens, a daughter of Col. Thomas F. Stevens, of Palmyra, Ill., and they have two children: Robert Stevens, born April 1, 1901, and Edwin Fletcher, born November 16, 1910. By his high moral character and his unselfish devotion to the interests of the industrial classes, Mr. Woodmansee has won the confidence and respect of the community in which he resides and which he has served in. various public capacities.

WOODRUFF, Cornelius, a prominent farmer of Capital Township, Sangamon County, Ill., and an honored veteran of the Civil War, was born in Franklin County, Ky., October 25, 1844, son of John and Mary (Petty) Woodruff, the former a native of Kentucky and the latter of Virginia. The father was a carpenter and spent his entire life in Kentucky, where he and his wife both died. They had four sons and four daughters, and besides Cornelius there is one son, William, and one daughter, Katherine, surviving. The father of John H. Woodruff, Odiah Woodruff, was born in New Jersey and served seven years in the Continental Army. He was aidede-camp to Gen. LaFayette and held the horse of that distinguished officer while he went to the Battle of Brandywine. He was present at the siege of York.

The boyhood of Cornelius Woodruff was spent in his native State, where he received his education, and as a boy he worked on a farm and cut wood. He came to Springfield, in 1857, and began working in a saw-mill, where he remained about three years, and spent three years on a farm. He enlisted at Camp Butler, Ill., July 25, 1861, in Company I, One Hundred Fourteenth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, serving three years, and was mustered out at Camp Butler. He participated in every battle where his company took part during the time of his service, among them being: Vicksburg and Guntown, Miss. He was. captured and spent six months in Andersonville Prison, where he won the gratitude of his fellowprisoners by discovering the famous spring in the prison-yard. He served some time under Gen. Sherman. At the close of the war he returned to Sangamon County and spent six years farming there, then moved to Champaign County and for twelve years engaged in farming and conducting a meat business, after which he spent two years as prison-keeper in the city prison. Returning to Champaign County, he spent another four years in butcher business, then again located at Springfield. He subsequently went to New Mexico, where he entered land and engaged in farming. He spent three years in that State and still owns the land. Upon his return to Springfield he engaged in farming and owns property in Springfield. He is a prominent member of Stephenson Post, G. A. R., and has a war record that is a credit to his bravery and faithful service. He is an intelligent and energetic farmer and business man and has been successful in whatever he has undertaken. In

Mr. Woodruff was married in Springfield, in 1875, to Miss Cinderella Van Kirk, a native of Ohio, whose father emigrated from that State to Sangamon County in an early day and engaged in farming. Both her parents died in the county and she died in 1906. Two children were born of this union: Mary, wife of Arthur Sales, of Champaign County, and Marion, who joined the United States Naval Service and is now stationed in China on the Battleship "New York," being now nineteen years of age. At the State Fair of Illinois held in 1910, Mr. Woodruff was the "old fiddler" at the old pioneer relic display, and still uses the violin that he carried through the Civil War, which is a very fine instrument. It is shown in his portrait.

WOODRUFF, Marion U., former Mayor of Springfield, T11., and for many years prominent in local public affairs, has been practicing the profession of law in the city since 1890. He was born in Sangamon County, June 24, 1865, son of Thomas J. and Mildred (Tackett) Woodruff, natives of Kentucky. He attended the common schools of Sangamon County and spent his boyhood on the farm. As a young man Mr. Woodruff spent two years in school at Valparaiso, Ind., and two years in Champaign, Hl. He received his legal training at Champaign, completing it in the office of Thomas J. Smith, and was admitted to the Bar in 1888, soon after which he opened an office for the general practice of his profession in Springfield. He has established himself well in his profession and has won high standing in the community as a public-spirited citizen, as well as a reputation for ability as a lawyer. He now has an office in the Marine Bank Building.

_ In politics Mr. Woodruff is a strong Democrat. He served as a member of the City Council of Springfield in 1893-94 and as Mayor in 1895-97. During his administration he was largely instrumental in securing the establishment of a municipal lighting plant, which re- to $50 per arc light. This bill was bitterly opposed by part of the council and was passed only after.a close fight, and due credit was accorded Mayor Woodruff for his unfaltering position on the question. :

Mr. Woodruff was married, at Springfield, May 23, 1894, to Sarah M. Smith, daughter of Fred and Elizabeth (Granger) Smith, natives of Massachusetts. Mrs. Smith died in 1903. Mr. Smith is now a resident of Springfield, Il. Two children were born to Mr. Woodruff and his wife: Marion Francis and Clark Waldo. The family resides at 1004 South Fifth Street. Mr. Woodruff's grandfather, Nodiah Woodruff, fought in the Revolution, under General Washington. Fraternally Mr. Woodruff is a member of the Odd Fellows and the Knights of Pythias.

WOODWARD, Joseph Richard, who for the past ten years has been identified with the growth and progress of the village of Thayer, Ill., is now serving as President of the Village Board of that place and is a leader in every public enterprise. He is foreman of the Illinois Coal Washing Company's plant at Thayer, and during the time he has been associated with this company there has not been a strike, which fact speaks well for his executive ability and popularity. He was born in Farm Ridge Township, LaSalle County, Ill., October 17, 1862, son of Jacob G. and Nancy J. (Ball) Woodward, natives of Fayette County, Pa., and of English descent. Jacob G. Woodward was brought by his parents to LaSalle County, and the father of Nancy J. Ball died in Fayette County, Pa. Jacob G. Woodward was a son of Joseph Woodward, who became a prominent man in La- Salle County. The former turned his attention to farming and stock raising after his marriage, continuing this occupation until his death. In 1874 he went with his family to Sumner County, Kan., intending to locate there permanently, but the grasshoppers took possession of the State to such an extent that he loaded his household effects into a wagon and returned to LaSalle County. His son Joseph R. well remembers the trip to Kansas and back again, and recalls how the grasshoppers destroyed thirty acres of corn, leaving nothing but the stalks.

To Jacob G. Woodward and wife thirteen children were born and all still survive, Joseph R. being the oldest. All were born near Ottawa, LaSalle County, save one daughter, Elizabeth, the seventh child, who was born in Sumner County, Kan., July 4, 1874, and is now the wife of Sanford Shields, residing in Oklahoma. The other children are: Varetta, born January 2, 1864, wife of Lewis Evans, of Terre Haute, Ind.; Martin K., of Carmen, Okla.; Ruth, wife of Walter Chamberlain, of Streator, Ill.; Herman U., of North English, lowa; Amanda, wife of Joseph France, of Carmen, Okla.; John William, of Chicago; Cora, widow of Frank Kelly, of Terre Haute, Ind.; Mrs. Murrell Huckins, of Streator, Ill.; Myrtle, wife of Robert Pendleton, of Lafayette, Col.; Lester, of Streator, Il. ; Jacob, of Carmen, Okla. The father of these children died in 1892. He was a man of homeloving, quiet disposition, unassuming in manner, friendly and kind to all. He was an ardent supporter of the principles of the Republican party and took an active part in the councils of same. He was a good citizen and much interested in church work. His wife survived him until 1898, when she passed to her reward. Both were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church and were esteemed by all for their good moral and spiritual influence in their community. They sleep side by side in the cemetery at Farm Ridge, LaSalle County.

Joseph Richard Woodward was reared in LaSalle County and there attended the public schools, assuming the usual duties of a farmer's son early in life. He remained with his parents until about twenty-four years old and, being the oldest child, learned the full details of farm work.

January 19, 1887, Mr. Woodward was married to Miss Ellen G. White, born in Bruce Township, LaSalle County, May 15, 1869, daughter of Jobn and Elizabeth White, natives of Scotland, who came to America about 1865, settling near Streator, where they lived until his death, April 4, 1910, all these years having been spent on the farm where they settled in 1865. His widow still lives there. After his marriage Mr. Woodward went to work by the month on the farm of Jerome Corber, in LaSalle County, with whom he remained until 1890, then spent one year on rented land, and in 1891 accepted a position with an electric light plant, which was located at Grandridge. In consequence of an explosion this plant was burned, and as it was not rebulit, Mr. Woodward was compelled to seek employment elsewhere. He began work, in the fall of 1892, with the Chicago, Wilmington & Vermilion Coal Company, on a hoisting engine; in 1900, the same company was just opening up a mine at Thayer and sent him to take charge of their hoisting engines at that place. He remained with this company at Thayer from May 30, 1900, until August 1, 1901, then accepted a position with the Illinois Coal Washing Company as foreman of their plant, which position he has since held, being well fitted by knowledge and experience to take charge of this kind of work. He has been one of the leading men in building up a town at Thayer and has eccupied an important place in the conduct of affairs in the community since locating there. At the time he came to Thayer there were but two men there and but one house stood where the present plat of the village is located. The present population is about 1,200 and there are about 400 miners employed by the company with which Mr. Woodward is connected. He has served some time as a member of the Board of Village Trustees and is now serving a term as President of that body, his -official duties having been performed in a manner most satisfactory to all concerned. |

Children as follows were born to Mr. Woodward and his wife: Essie May, January 22, 1888, wife of Frank Edmonds, of New Berlin, whom she married April 27, 1910; Annie died in infancy; Iowa, born August 8, 1891, a teacher in Sangamon County Schools; Arthur Verner, born September 19, 1892, at home. Fraternally M. Woodward is a member of Maple Leaf Camp No. 148, M. W. A., of Virden, Ill. ; Thayer Lodge No. 143, K. of P.; Virden Lodge No. 161, A, F. & A. M. and Virden Council No. 33, P. L. He and his wife are affiliated with Pride of America Temple No. 113, Pythian Sisters, and she is an active member of the Methodist

WOOLARY, Emmer, now living retired from active life at Chatham, Ill., was born in Wilmington, Ohio, November 28, 1846, and is a son of Michael and Rosanna (Small) Woolary, the former born in Auglaize County, Ohio, in 1812, and the latter born in Waynesville, Ohio, in 1815. The father was a carpenter by trade and for many years lived in Wilmington, where both he and his wife died. He was a soldier in the Black Hawk War. His parents and those of his wife were early settlers of Ohio.

Emmer Woolary spent his childhood in his native State and there received his education. He followed farming until the breaking out of the Civil War, and enlisted, in March, 1864, at Columbus, Ohio, and served to the end of the war, being mustered out at Camp Chase, in December, 1865. He had participated in the Battles of Chattanooga, Buzzard's Roost, Big Shanty, Kenesaw Mountain, Peach Tree Creek, Jonesboro, and the Siege of Atlanta. He took part in the March to the Sea, and in many skirmishes, serving under Captains Wilkins and Joe Taylor. For three months Mr. Woolary carried messages for his General. During the campaign in Georgia he was for three months without change of clothing, and endured great

At the close of the war Mr. Woolary returned to Ohio and soon afterward moved to Springfield, Ill., where he worked for twenty years. He has been a resident of Chatham since about 1903 and is one of the best-known and most respected citizens of his community. He was married, at Sharonville, Ohio, in July, 1866, to Miss Annie Gorman, born in Hamilton County, Ohio, daughter of Henry and Rachel Gorman, both of whom spent their entire lives in Ohio, and were farmers. Eight children were born to Mr. Woolary and his wife, of whom six survive: George W., born in Hamilton County, Ohio, July 24, 1867; Rosa, July 14, 1868; Jennie, January 1, 1875; Mary, born in October, 1871, died in 1878; Harry, born in July, 1872, died the same year; Joseph, born in October, 1880; Hmmer Jr., March 17, 1883; and Nora, July 20, 1876.

Mr. Woolary is a member of the Red Men and in politics is a Democrat, but in local affairs votes for the man rather than for the party. He is not a member of any church, but endeavors to follow the Golden Rule in his actions, and his relations with his fellow-men are very pleasant. He has lived retired for several years past, but had previously worked hard all his life and managed his affairs in an able manner, so that he acquired a competency.

Loami Township, Sangamon County, since 1880, when the grandfather of Alfred C. Workman brought his family to that location from Tennessee, making the trip overland. Four generations have lived in the neighborhood of this early settlement and the present homestead, occupied by the subject of this sketch, has been the family home since 1850, when a small frame house was the dwelling of the parents of Mr. Workman. Alfred ©. Workman was born on his present farm May 12, 1874, son of John and Caroline (Campbell) Workman, the father a native of Tennessee and the mother of Chatham Township, Sangamon County, to which place her father had emigrated from Tennessee. The Campbell family is of Scotch descent.

In his boyhood Alfred C. Workman attended the village schools in his neighborhood, remaining at home until he was twenty-six years of age, when his father gaye him 320 acres of land in Curran Township, to which he moved, living there until 1897. He then purchased a farm, which he conducted two years and then returned to the home farm, as his father was growing old and needed someone to take charge. Mr. Workman now owns the old home farm of 280 acres, and besides this land owns 400 acres elsewhere in the county. He was married, November 5, 1905, to Miss Ora Dodd, who was born in New Berlin Township, Sangamon County, daughter of Theodore Dodd.

Mr. Workman carries on his work according to modern ideas and methods and has made a specialty of high-grade stock, having fine Percheron horses, well bred mules and a flock of about ninety head of Shropshire sheep. In politics he is a stanch Republican and takes a commendable interest in public affairs, although he cares nothing for office himself. He has become well known as a successful breeder of stock and has been fortunate in his investments and operations. He is proud of the part his family has taken in the settlement and development of Loami Township, and fully appreciates the care with which his father carried on his enterprises so as to provide for his children. The work begun on the home farm by John Workman has been continued by his son, who has added many improvements and developed the estate in many ways.

WORKMAN, Esau, an enterprising and successful farmer of Section 18, Chatham Township, Sangamon County, was born in the township, June 1, 1876, son of John Workman, one of the extensive land-owners of the region and a shrewd business man, who was able to recognize and take advantage of opportunities offered him, thus attaining remarkable success. Esau Workman spent his school days in Oak Ridge School, near his father's home, and under the direction and instruction of his father became a practical farmer. He was married, July 29, 1896, to Miss Henrietta Hudson, who was born in Kentucky and came to Illinois with her parents, Wesley Hudson and wife, now residing in Springfield. In 1897 Mr. Workman and his wife took possession of a forty-acre farm in Curran Township, and the following year came to the farm where they now live. In 1900 they moved to Springfield and three years later purchased ten acres of land on West Grand Place, where they erected a fine home and put in many improvements, selling the property at a handsome profit in 1903, after which they returned to the farm where Mr. Workman was born and remained that winter. In the spring of 1904 they returned to the farm they had previously occupied, in Section 18, and have since made it their home. This farm contained 807 acres and they have added the home place of 110 acres, making 417 acres altogether. Mr. Workman also owns a farm of 263% acres in Christian County, Ill., thus making 68044 acres in the cctn belt of Illinois, where profits are sure to be Arge. Mr. Workman has spent his life in farming ever since old enough to begin active operations, and is one of the most progressive men of his community, being a believer in modern ideas and methods. He has made many improvements in his farm, putting in tile and building fences, and in the former has used some 1,500 rods of tiling. He makes a specialty of stock breeding and has a good grade, including Poland-China hogs and a large flock of pure-blood Shropshire sheep. He is active in promoting any public enterprise and takes great interest in the men and measures of the Republican party, whose principles he always supports, being ready at any time to use his time and influence to push any movement which enlists his sympathy. He is well known for business honesty and integrity and has the entire confidence of all with whom he has had dealings. He ships about three carloads of cattle annually and finds a good market for them. He and his wife are members of the Christian Church at Loami. They have one son, Frank H., born November 21, 1899. ; WORKMAN, Isaac, one of the older farmers of Sangamon County, resides on Section 23, Loami Township. He was born August 7, 1834, in this township, a son of William and _ Sally (Blyen) Workman. The father was a native of Maryland, who came to Tennessee and later to Illinois, after his marriage. Arriving in 1820, he and his wife settled in Loami Township, where the father entered and bought prairie land, becoming in time one of the most extensive property owners of the country. He and his wife lived in a primitive log cabin in which nearly all of their children were born. When his children grew up, William Workman gave each one a farm, so they would settle near him. He had eight sons and three daughters: Peter, Jacob, Stephen, David, Elizabeth, Isaac, William B., Sally, Polly and Samuel, William Workman died in 1877, aged seventy-seven years, his widow surviving him, and she passed away at the age of eighty-two years. Both were members of the Christian Church and in politics he was a stanch Republican with reference to State and National matters, although in local affairs he voted for the man he deemed best fitted for office. Although often solicited, he would never permit the use of his name on the party ticket. His success was all the more remarkable because of the discouragement he first felt upon coming to the county. However, he did not allow that fact to interfere with his progress, and died one of the very wealthy men of his county.

Isaac Workman was educated in the subscription schools of the neighborhood, held in the primitive log cabin, with slab seats and puncheon floor, the only light being furnished by a small window. Like Abraham Lincoln, Mr. Workman studied by the flickering light of the log fire at home, and learned well and rapidly. There being plenty to do on the land his father was so rapidly acquiring, Isaac began working when still a small lad, having to do everything in what today seems to have been a very primitive method, and which then suited the farmers. He plowed with the old wooden plow with an jron point, and during harvest the grain was cut with the sickle and cradle. When assisting the neighbors he received fifty cents per day for using the cradle. The grain was flailed out by hand, then hauled many miles to the nearest mill. In looking back and remembering all the difficulties, Mr. Workman naturally wonders how it was that the farmers of those days accomplished so much. They always had time to help a neighbor, and attended to their religious and political duties without shirking.

The first wife of Mr. Workman was Elizabeth Workman, born in Tennessee, daughter of John Workman, a cousin of William Workman. Their children were: Sally, wife of Peter Harber, a farmer of Curran Township, issue - George, Jay and Alice; John D., at home; Martha, wife of Steven E. Workman, issue - Jacob and Harry. The mother died, a consistent member of the Methodist Church. On June 30, 1861, Mr. Workman married Martha Ann Wedden, a native of Illinois, and they had the following children: William H. married Minerva Carson and is a farmer of Loami Township, issue, Eva ; Tsaac L., a farmer of the same township, married Lena McLaughlin, daughter of Christopher McLaughlin, of Springfield; Mayhew, a farmer of this township, married Amanda Carson, daughter of William Carson, issue, Kenneth; Joseph and Elizabeth, at home; Ada, wife of W. A. Burton.

Mr. Workman has spent his life in this locality, now residing within half a mile of the place of his birth. Long a Republican, he has represented his party on the School Board. Having struggled hard to secure a good education himself, he has given his children every advantage, and is proud of their progress. Always a hard worker himself, he has striven to instill in his children a love for work and a knowledge of saving, and he has the satisfaction of knowing that his lessons have not gone astray. At the same time, his example

WORKMAN, John (deceased). - Among the prominent and successful pioneers of Sangamon County few became more extensive land-owners that John Dorkman, of Loami Township, who died on the farm he had developed March 4, 1910, at the close of a busy and useful life. He and his wife reared a large family of children and all who reached maturity were useful citizens, ready to do their share in the progress and upbuilding of the community. All have settled near the old home and most of them live on farms. John Workman was born in Overton County, Tenn., July 6, 1824, and was brought to Sangamon County when about six years of age, remaining in Loami Township the remainder of his life. He was married, September 26, 1850 to Miss Caroline Campbell, daughter of John

After their marriage John Workman and his wife located in a small frame house on Section 5, Loami Township, where their son Alfred now lives. At that time there were many wild turkeys and other game, such as geese and cranes, and these birds frequently destroyed considerable grain. Mrs. Workman's father gave her 160 acres of land and they became very successful as time went on, producing excellent crops and adding to their possessions from time to time. The young wife carded wool, spun yarn, did all the family sewing by hand, and as years went on often worked until midnight at her wheel or knitting stockings, or performing various. other household tasks. At first they used the old-fashioned tallow "dips" but later purchased a candle mold, which saved much time and labor. Mrs. Workman looks back upon the busy years when her children were growing up around her and her days were crowded with work, as being very happy. Eleven children were born to Mr. Workman and his wife, of whom two died in infancy and seven now survive. As each child married and left the old home the father made him (or her) a gift of 320 acres of land. All settled so near that the mother can visit them in a single day. They are: Sarah E., widow of Stephen Workman, living in Loami Township; John W., in Curran Township; Josiah, a farmer of Maxwell Township; Callie, wife of William Butler, of Chatham Township; Polly, wife of Edwin Bilyeu, a farmer of Curran Township; Alfred C., on the

Mr, Workman and his wife were among the most extensive landowners in Sangamon County and for fifty-nine years lived together in happy wedlock, the tie being broken by the death of the father and husband. The widow still resides on the old farm, and at the age of seventysix years enjoys good health and retains her energy and intelligent interest in all about her. She has been a capable, loving mother and has the fullest esteem and reverence of all her children, and the high regard of all who know her. Her life of toil and high endeavor has been an inspiration to her children. She has lived in her present home since 1850 and during this time has witnessed great changes and improvements, in all of which she has been greatly interested. Mr. Workman was a member of the Christian Church and in politics was a stanch Republican, having filled various township offices creditably. Two years before his death he made a final division of his estate, having 1,525 acres of land in his possession at that time, having given away among his children 2,240 acres, all the result of his own hard work and excellent management.

WORKMAN, Mayhew. - Members of the Workman family are found throughout Sangamon County, and are always numbered among the representative residents of their several communities. The family was founded there by sturdy pioneers who came to the county resolved to find a home where their children could be reared in health and in turn secure land at prices within the reach of poor men. That they have succeeded much better than they planned, the prosperity of their descendants proves beyond doubt. One of these representatives is Mayhew Workman, of Section 14, Loami Township, a breeder of fine Poland-China hogs, and a farmer of exceptional ability. He was born in the township, one mile south of his present home, October 7, 1866, a son of Isaac and Martha (Widden) Workman.

After a boyhood spent on the farm, where he alternated attending district school with a man's work, in 1887, soon after attaining his majority, Mr. Workman engaged to labor by the month for $17.50, thus continuing for three years. Having saved his money, in 1890 he and his brother Isaac bought farming implements, rented seventy-two acres in the southern part of Loami Township, and for two years farmed in conjunction. At the end of this period Mayhew Workman bought his brother's interest, and for four years conducted the farm, living on it alone.

On November 28, 1896, he married Amanda Carson, born in Sangamon County, in what now is Maxwell Township. She is a daughter of William Carson, also a pioneer of this locality. After marriage the young couple rented 30 acres in Chatham Township, which they conducted until 1905, but in that year Mr. Work- man bought fifty-four acres on Section 14, Loami Township. This property was in very poor condition, but being an experienced farmer he began at once to improve it, now having a fine farm. He built a beautiful cottage on a natural building site, surrounding it with all kinds of fruit, shade and ornamental trees, so that it is one of the most delightful rural homes in the county. Upon coming to this farm Mr. Workman began breeding Poland-China hogs, now having stock that is eligible to registration. He annually produces about 120 head, which bring the highest market prices. In July, 1910, he sold fifty-six head, averaging 214 pounds each, which netted him $8.50 per hundred, or $990.30 for the shipment. In addition to his hogs, Mr. Workman keeps about fifty head of Shropshire sheep, a herd of short horn and Jersey cattle, and an excellent grade of horses. His experiements have taught him the best methods of working, and his success is remarkable and gratifying.

Mr. and Mrs. Workman are the parents of one son Kenneth Mae, born June 24, 1906, a dear little boy. They are both active in the good work of the Christian Church, to which both belong. In politics he is a stanch Republican, the Workman family nearly all being within the ranks of this party, but he does not desire office. Fraternally he is a Mason, belonging to Lodge No. 456 Loami; and is a member of Camp No. $4S, Modern Woodmen of America, of Loami, while Mrs. Workman belongs to the Home Circle of Loami. The modern agriculturist is rapidly forging ahead, developing his property and introducing new methods of breeding and tilling the soil. While the farmer and stockman of today reaps substantial returns, he is also put to an immense expense in maintaining a high standard, and his work requires keen business ability and foresightedness in order that he may meet existing conditions.

WORKMAN, Melvin. - No family in Sangamon County is better represented by solid, practical and honorable business men and agriculturists than that bearing the name of Workman. Its representatives have been identified with the history of the county from early days, and have always been foremost in the work of developing natural resources and securing good government. One of the reliable men belonging to this honored family is Melvin Workman, residing on his farm, adjacent to the village of Loami, where he is doing general farming, making a speialty of breeding Percheron and road horses. He was born in Loami Township, February 1, 1878, a son of Stephen and Sarah E. (Workman) Workman, the former of whom died about 1895, but his widow survives, carrying on the large farm he left her, he having been one of the prosperous and thrifty farmers of the township. She has added to her possessions, and now owns 560 acres, 320 acres in Loami Township and 240 in Christian County.

County, daughter of Jesse Dodd, also one of the pioneers of the county, now deceased. He died when Mrs. Workman was still a child, his widow surviving until 1907. Mr. and Mrs. Workman have one child, Roy, born January 24, 1900, a bright little fellow, who is doing well at school and filling his parents' hearts with pride.