Sangamon County, Illinois - The whole text, 1912 (part 5 of 46)

riage in Springfield, with Ellen Smith, born in the same county as himself. Her parents came from Ireland to New Orleans, and thence to Sangamon County, where their deaths finally occurred. Mr. Brennan's parents never left their native land. Seven children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Brennan, four of whom are living: John P., of Springfield, has three children: Mary Jane, of Streator, Ill., is married and has four children; Peter F. and Ella G., both live with their mother at No. 720 Hast Carpenter street. Mrs. Brennan owns this pleasant residence, in which she has lived ever since her marriage. She is active in the Church of the Immaculate Conception, and is a lady who enjoys the respect of all who have the honor of her acquaintance.

BRETZ, John (deceased). - The visitor to any great center of population is naturally attracted or repelled by the character of its buildings and, so well is this known, that every invitation sent out over the country to the stranger from any village, town or city will particularly call attention to its fine structures and particularly to its church edifices. When this is done at Springfield, Ill., the name of John Bretz is brought forward, for his was the skill and workmanship that produced many of the capital city's most noted edifices during a period covering some twenty-six years.

John Bretz was born in Hesse-Cassel, Germany, August 26, 1812. His father, who was also named John Bretz, followed the business of tile-making. Before coming to America the son attended school in his native land, and learned the brick making and building trade, and also served for a time in the German army. In 1833 he came to America, first locating at Frankfort, Ky., where he lived until 1857, and there did a large amount of building, including the only Catholic Church in that city - the Church of the Good Shepherd - also the State Arsenal and the Capitol Hotel, and it was because of his reputation for superior work that he was called to Springfield, which he reached in 1857. Here he also built the first Catholic churech - that of the Immaculate Conception - on the corner of Seventh and Monroe Streets, of which Rey. Father Timothy Hickey is pastor. He also built the old arsenal that stood on North Fifth Street. He not only was one of the early manufacturers of building brick made in Illinois but was one of the first to make use of it in public buildings at Springfield. He was associated in business for a number of years with Mr. Frank Reisch, a brick manufacturer, but after the latter went into the brewery business, Mr. Bretz continued in the building and contracting business alone until 1883. He was interested all over the city in his own line of business and for years was also actively concerned in public enterprises that helped to develop Springfield. In company with Messrs. Ide and Shuck, he was active in the construction of the first street-car line in Springfield and donated the right of way on North Fifth Street as far as his property extended. He and Mr. Will Converse, also now deceased, helped organize and were the first stockholders of the Sangamon County Fair Grounds, but later donated his stock to the establishment of what is now the State Fair Grounds.

On January 19, 1841, Mr. Bretz was married to Jane Pilcher, of Fayette County, Ky. Her parents were Wesley and Laura (Taylor) Pilcher, natives of Virginia. The Taylors were of Mayflower stock, and lived in Virginia until their removal to Kentucky. Mrs. Bretz died June 14, 1900, and was survived by her husband until May 22, 1905. They rest side by side in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, a plot of ground which Mr. Bretz and Mr. John Perick, Sr., laid out in burial lots. Mr. and Mrs. Bretz had twelve children, those surviving being: Mrs. Louise Westenberger, born in 1842; John F., born in 1844; James, born in 1851; Mary E. born in 1854; Catherine, born in 1859; and Charles, born in 1862, and who is owner of a ranch near San Antonio, Texas. The unmarried daughters live in the elegant home situated on North Fifth Street, and among the treasures carefully preserved are mementoes of the parents who were so universally beloved.

In his early political life, John Bretz was a Whig but later he became identified with the Democratic party. He was a worthy and devoted member of the S.S. Peter and Paul's Catholic Church and was liberal in his benefactions. With his friend, Governor Bissell, he assisted in locating the Ursaline Sisters in their first home on Mason and Sixth Streets, and later, with his friend, Martin Rafter, now also deceased, located the present Sisters' Home on Fifth and Eastman Avenue. He was one of the founders of S.S. Peter and Paul's Church and built that edifice; was also one of the first members in Springfield of the society known as St. Vincent de Paul, which was organized under Father Bush, now deceased, in the German Catholic Church located on Reynolds and Fifth Streets. The closing of the life of this venerable and beloved citizen brought expressions of regret from all over the city. He was well known and in some parts was affectionately called "Grandpa" Bretz by the children, to whom he was always a friend.

BREWER, James. - Only reliable men, whose probity and loyalty have been fully tested, can be placed in position of responsibility, so that the A. L. Ide & Sons establishment is to be congratulated upon haying a man of the character of James Brewer as watchman. He was born in Springfield, November 9, 1844, a son of John Brewer, of Kentucky, who married a Sangamon County girl. The father was a farmer, who came to the county at a very early day, settling in Springfield, where he was married. He had two sons and one daughter, those now living being, Mrs. Elizabeth Markley, of Pekin, Ill.,

Going to school in Springfield, James Brewer grew up, and when old enough began working, being engaged in various lines until he learned book-binding. He found employment for a number of years in this line, becoming foreman for the Payne Bindery. He was also employed in the construction of the State Capitol and over twenty years ago accepted his present position with the Ide Company. Mr. Brewer has a war record, for when hostilities were declared he enlisted in Company H, One Hundred Thirtythird Illinois Volunteer Infantry, participating in several important battles, and his discharge was signed by President Lincoln. At the close of his service he returned to Springfield and resumed his private occupations. Naturally, considering his military service, he is a member of the G. A. R., being connected with Stephenson Post, No. 30.

On August 17, 1886, Mr. Brewer was married in Springfield, to Amelia Pond, born in Morgan County, Ill., daughter of Cyrus J. and Martha ©. (Williams) Pond, natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio, who came to Morgan County. Their family consisted of eight children, five of whom survive: Mrs. Brewer; Cynthia, wife of James Alsbury, of Latham, Ill.; Carl, in the coal business in Chicago; Frank O., of Peoria; A. is living in St. Louis.

Mr. and Mrs. Brewer became the parents of eight children, two of whom are now living. James H., at home, and Martha O., in the employ of the John Bressmer Company, of Springfield. Mr. Brewer owns his pleasant home at No. 401 Smith Street, as well as other property. It is his pride that he was one of President Lincoln's personal friends. He and Mrs. Brewer are members of the Baptist Church and in politics he is a Republican.

The history of the Brewer and Pond families is very interesting. For a short time the greatgrandfather of Mrs. Brewer was a soldier in the Revolutionary War, fighting under General Washington. Her grandfather on her mother's side was a soldier in the Mexican War, the Black Hawk War and the war against the Mormons. He was a resident of Springfield for a number of years. Mrs. Brewer's father was a farmer and followed that calling in Morgan County, Ill., for many years, finally retiring and moving to Concord, where he died. His widow came to live with Mrs. Brewer and there died. Mr. Pond was a member of Company B, One Hundred and First Illinois Volunteer Infantry, during the Civil War, participating in many battles, and was wounded at Lookout Mountain. He had the misfortune to be seriously wounded and was also taken prisoner. The bullet which was extracted from his wound, together with his picture and the flag of his regiment, can be seen among the mementoes of war at the State House. The members of both families have been representative men and women, in whose hands could be trusted the affairs of their communities, for through good and evil times they have proven their worth.

BRIMBARGER, John. - The history of the old soldiers of the country is very interesting. In spite of their hardships and the ill health from which they have suffered, the survivors of the mighty struggle have quietly gone on their way, faithfully discharging the duties laid upon them in civil life with the same fidelity they showed when in the field. One of Sangamon County's honored veterans is John Brimbarger, a farmer and gardener of Springfield. He was born in Gallatin County, Ill., November 20, 1840, a son of James and Matilda (Carroll) Brimbarger, the former born in Kentucky, in 1815, and the latter born in Illinois, in 1824. The father was a farmer and located in Gallatin County, making it bis home for some years, or until his death, which occurred near Shawneetown. His widow went to Missouri in 1867, dying there in 1870. A brother of John Brimbarger died*in Gallatin County a number of years ago.

When he was only five years old John Brimbarger came to Sangamon County, which has since continued to be his home, with the exception of his war service. He was there educated and grew to manhood's estate. On August 12, 1862, he enlisted in the service of his country, in Company C, One Hundred and Fourteenth Ulinois Volunteer Infantry, under Captain Mallory. The regiment went into camp at Camp Butler, but two months later were ordered to Memphis, where Mr. Brimbarger was taken sick, and he was placed in Jefferson Hospital. After three weeks there he rejoined his regiment at Vicksburg in time for the first engagement, in which he participated, as well as in the three months' siege. After this he was returned to Memphis, where he was placed on the Veteran Reserve Corps and assigned to guard duty at the prisons. This continued to be his work during the remainder of his service, when he was honorably discharged.

On December 13, 1883, Mr. Brimbarger was married to Fannie F. James, daughter of George B. James. She was born March 13, 1852, and brought from Indiana to Springfield by her

The following children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Brimbarger: Tillie, wife of Alva Lanam of Riverton, employed by the Illinois Central Railroad; Lessie, wife of Philip Spain, living at home; Ora, wife of Tanier Baxter, a butcher by trade, residing at Rochester; Frank lives near Riverton and is a farmer. Mr. Brimbarger has two grandchildren, of whom one, Dorothy Spain, lives with him, and Cecil Lanam, of Riverton.

tian Church holds his membership and he contributes to it both time and money. His comfortable modern home is surrounded by two and one-half acres of land, tastefully laid out, on which he produces magnificent vegetables and flowers.

Although he has almost reached the age of three score years and ten, he is active and enjoys his simple pleasures in a way many men much his junior might envy. All his life he has worked hard, and the material comforts he now enjoys have been honestly earned by personal effort. His children have been carefully reared, given good educations, and fitted for the battle of life. For sixty-three years he has been an honored resident of Sangamon County, during which time he has witnessed many remarkable changes, and he is proud of this fact and of the part he has borne in the general upbuilding of his community. Such as he can be relied upon as being the supporters of good government and advocates of all measures that have for their object the advancement of the common people.

BRINKERHOFF, George Madoc, who has been for many years one of the prosperous and prominent business men of Springfield, Ill., has been identified with the progress and welfare of the city and has held public positions of honor and trust for both the city and State. He was one of the organizers and stockholders of many of the most important public enterprises of the city and has always been prominent in social circles as well. He is one of the best-known men in Springfield, honored not only for his public service but for his promotion of business interests. He was in early life a prominent educator in Illinois, and was especially successful in that profession. Mr. Brinkerhoff is a man of ability and talent in many lines of endeavor, and has been successful to a large degree in both public and private enterprises. At present he operates an extensive green-house and is also a large dealer in bonds.

Mr. Brinkerhoff was born in Hunterstown, (near Gettysburg) Adams County, Pa., August 20, 1839, a son of John and Sarah Ann (Walter) Brinkerhoff, the former born December 15, 1811, and the latter November 16, 1814, both natives of Adams County. The parents spent their early married lives in Adams County, Pa., and during the Gettysburg Campaign in civil war time, their homestead was for a time occupied by the rebel General Wade Hampton as the headquarters of the cavalry division of General Lee's army. The emigrant ancestor of the Brinkerhoff family came from Holland with Governor Peter Stuyvesant, about 1638, and settled first in New Amsterdam, on the Island of Manhattan and now apart of New York City afterward moving to New Jersey. Before the Revolution many of the family had acquired a large amount of land from proprietors in Pennsylvania and moved there. Many of them distinguished themselves by their services in the war of the Revolution.

George Madoc Brinkerhoff spent his boyhood on the farm of his parents and, as a young man, attended Pennsylvania College, from which he graduated in the class of 1859. After leaying school he came to Illinois and taught one year in the Illinois State University, now Concordia College, Springfield. At the time of the Civil War and afterward he was employed in the office of the State Auditor; and during hostilities had charge of the War Department of that office. In politics he has been a Republican since boyhood and has never swerved in his allegiance to the principles of his party. He is justly proud of the fact that he is one of the "Grand Old Guard" of 306 who attended the Republican National Convention in Chicago in 1880, and cast his vote for the nomination of Gen. Grant for President. Mr. Brinkerhoff's father was a Whig and the boy first learned political issues through the principles of that party. From 1865-70 he served as City Comptroller of the City of Springfield.

Mr. Brinkerhoff was married in Springfield, Ill., August 4, 1862, fo Miss Isabella Gibson Hawley, who was born in that city, July 21, 1848, and died there June 12, 1894, leaving six children. She was a daughter of Eliphalet Bennett and Mary D. (Sayre) Hawley. Eliphalet B. Hawley was born in Albany, N. Y., May 30, 1816, the son of Eliphalet and Elizabeth (McMurdy) Hawley, who came from New York to Sangamon County in 1822, and a year later, Eliphalet Sr. haying lost his life by drowning, his widow removed to Springfield with her children, and there, after reaching manhood, Eliphalet B. engaged in mercantile pursuits and was prominent in both business and political circles up to the date of his death in 1884. The children born to Mr. Brinkerhoff and his wife were as follows: John Hawley, born April 28, 1866; Marian Bell, November 11, 1868; George Madoc Jr., November 10, 1870; Cornelia Maria, November 27, 1872; Wialter Bennett, June 27, 1876; Bessie Winnifred, August 20, 1878.

Mr. Brinkerhoff was one of the organizers of the Springfield City Railway Company, also of the Springfield Iron Company. For many years he served as Secretary and Treasurer of the latter, and was also connected with the State National Bank. He has been for many years a member of the various Masonic bodies, being affiliated with St. Paul Lodge No. 500, Springfield Chapter, Springfield Council, Elwood Commandery, Sangamo Lodge of Perfection and the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite. He also belongs to the Illini Country Club and the Sangamo Club. He is a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Springfield, and readily gives his countenance and support to every cause and movement of a charitable or beneyolent character which he considers will be of public benefit. He has many friends in various circles and is honored and esteemed for his many excellent qualities of mind and heart. The family residence is 515 Keys Avenue,

Springfield. Mrs. Brinkerhoff was a most estimable woman, of culture and high character, a devoted wife and mother, and at her taking away was sadly mourned by her many warm personal friends. Her memory is revered and tenderly cherished by her family, as well as by many intimate friends and all appreciated the depth of her devotion to every duty.

BRITT, Henry (deceased), who was for several years engaged in busines in Springfield, Ill., as a member of the firm of Britt & Butler, plasterers and contractors, was born in Sussex, England, April 2, 1826. He was a son of William Britt, a native of England, and engaged in dairy business in Sussex. The parents died in their native country and there Henry Britt received his education. He came to America as a young man, landing in New York City, where he lived fourteen years and learned the trade of plasterer, which he followed the remainder of his life, except during the last few years before his death when he was retired from active business. He moved from New York City to Elmira, N. Y., where he spent three years, then moved to Louisville, Ky., and after spending two years there located permanently in Springfield. He became associated in business with Mr. Butler, and the firm secured contracts for plastering many fine buildings in Springfield and vicinity. Among them were the postoffice, the Leland Hotel, the Governor's mansion, the residence of Governor Matteson (afterwards burned) and many public and private buildings, which were well known thirty or forty years ago. He retired about 1875, and his death occurring January 9, 1881, he was buried in Oak Ridge Cemetery. He had many warm personal friends and his loss was widely felt. He had a splendid business reputation and was reliable and honest in all his dealings. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church and his widow and children attend the First Presbyterian Church of Springfield. He was always a Republican after the organizaton of that party.

The marriage of Mr. Britt occurred in Springfield, July 1, 1857, when he was united with Miss Martha H. Lanterman, who was born in Springfield, April 27, 1837, one of the six daughters of Abraham and Martha (White) Lanterman. Mr. Lanterman came' from Lexington, Ky., in 1818 and soon after settled on farm land where Washington Park now stands, and Mrs. Britt still retains some of this land which was entered by her father in that early day, being the only one in Springfield to hold land under original patent from the Government. -He was born January 20, 1792, and his wife, who came from Greensburg, Ky., was born September 30, 1795. Both died in Springfield. They were well acquainted with Abraham Lincoln and Mrs. Britt was a close friend of him, his wife and family. But two of Mr. Lanterman's family survive: Mrs. Britt and her sister Mrs. B. W. Crowder, of Springfield. Two sons and seven daughters were born to Mr. Henry Britt and wife, of whom two daughters Survive, namely: Miss Fannie M., a schoolteacher at Curran, Ill., where she has taught eleven years, and Mrs. Mattie L. Janssen, living at home. Mrs. Britt has four grandchildren. She owns the family home at 908 Southwest Grand Avenue, and has many friends in the neighborhood, as well as in other parts of the city. She has lived in this house fifty years and can well remember when the part of the city which is her home was practically a wilee the land being then mostly covered with rees.

BRITTIN, Ernest H., M. D., a worthy representative of his profession in Auburn, Ill., belongs to a family that has been prominent in Illinois for several generations. He was born in Fancy Creek Township, Sangamon County, November 21, 1874, a son of Henry and Nancy D. (Mallory) Brittin, the former of Welsh descent and the latter probably of French ancestry. Henry Brittin grew to manhood on the farm in Fancy Creek Township where his birth occurred, there married and lived his entire life near his birthplace. His farm of 320 acres comprised a part of the farm which belonged to his father, Evans Brittin, secured in an early day. Evans Brittin was a native of Ohio and located in Sangamon County in 1818. The parents of Nancy Mallory movea from Kentucky to Sangamon County. and she was born in Clear Lake Township, where she lived until her marriage.

Henry Brittin settled in Fancy Creek Township after his marriage and there all his children were born. He died on his farm in 1900 at the age of sixty-two years, and his widow died in 1901. They were devout and active members of the Christian Church most of their lives, and in politics he was a stanch Republican. He voted at every election, as he believed this was the duty of every citizen, and though often solicited to accept office, refused to do so. He gave his full support to every measure calculated to advance the interests of the community, morally or materially, and was a patriotic, public-spirited citizen. He was a great lover of his home and was always solicitous of the comfort of his wife and children. He and his wife were parents of eight children: Jobn E., on the old home farm; Henry E., a traveling salesman living at Springfield; Albert L., a physician and surgeon living at Athens, Tll.; William A., also a physician and surgeon practicing at Virden, Ill.; Emma N., widow of William Waldon, living in Athens; Roger E., a farmer living near Blackwell, Okla.; Walter M., died in Sangamon County in 1901, at the age of twenty-two years.

The boyhood days of Dr. Ernest H. Brittin were spent on the farm in Fancy Creek Township, and he attended the district school in the neighborhood. He took a scientific course in the college at Valparaiso, Ind., and in 1898 en- tered the Barnes Medical College at St. Louis, Mo., graduating in the class of 1902. In June of that year he entered upon practice at Pawnee, Ill, where he remained until 1907, then locating in Auburn, where he has built up an excellent practice. He is most careful in his diagnoses, keeps abreast of the times by studying modern literature and lectures along the line of his work and has won a deservedly high reputation in his profession.

June 18, 1902, Dr. Brittin married Miss Lulu Cook, a native of Auburn, and daughter of the late George Cook. Two children have been born of this union, Marjorie and Walter. Dr. Brittin is a member of the Masonic Lodge at Pawnee, and also belongs to the County Medical Society. He and his wife are members of the Presbyterian Church, and in politics he is a Republican. Like his father, he is interested in the progress and welfare of the community in which he resides, and is always ready to advance the interests of his fellows. He inspires the respect and confidence of those who have been associated with him and his future prospects are bright.

BROCKEL, John W. - AIl the leading European countries have contributed reliable citizens to the United States, and the majority of them have left their old homes in search of better conditions, being willing to work to secure what they desired. For this reason many of these immigrants make the best of citizens and are, therefore, welcomed in any community to which they migrate. One of the best examples of what a foreign-born man can accomplish is shown in the life of John W. Brockel, of Springfield. He was born in Wurtemburg, Germany, February 22, 1828. The father was a working man, honest and thrifty, but unable to provide for his large family in such a way as to make his son John satisfied with existing conditions. The parents both died in their native land. The father served in the Napoleonic wars, and always took pride in that fact, feeling that in his humble way he had helped to make history.

John W. Brockel secured what educational advantages the schools of his native place afforded, and as a boy was fond of out-door sports. His first work on leaving school was with a brick mason, and he learned the trade so thoroughly that he has followed it ever since. Sixty years ago he left Germany to come to the United States, Springfield being his objective point. He found immediate employment upon reaching that city, and has never since been without it, saving thriftily until he now owns his home and has a fair competence laid up for old age.

Mr. Brockel was married in Springfield, in 1854, to Anna Mongal, born in Wurtemburg, in 1830. Eight children were born to them: Anna, born in 1856; John, 1858; Katherine, 1861; Louis, 1863, now deceased; George, 1865; Mary,

1866; Will, 1868; and Frank, is a member of the German Lutheran Church, which he supports liberally. He is a Democrat in politics, but has never been active in party work, being too much occupied with business affairs. He is a sturdy, industrious man, who has always done his full duty, and is held in high esteem by his fellow citizens. His children have been reared to useful womanhood and manhood, and any father might well be proud of them.

BROIDA, David, for the past six years proprietor of a genera] store at the northwest corner of Fourteenth and Mason Streets, Springfield, is interested in the welfare and progress of the city and always ready to give his influence to the promotion of the public interest. Mr. Broida has been a resident of Springfield for a number of years and owns large property interests there. As a business man he has a reputation for honesty and integrity and is known as a man who always keeps his promises and has a proper respect for the rights and feelings of his fellows. He has never held public office but was a candidate for nomination for the office of City Commissioner in the primaries of February, 1911, and during the month of January gave a written statement to the daily issue of the Illinois State Register, setting forth his ideas and opinions. He therein promised, if elected, to put in his whole time and attention in fulfilling his duties; to see to it that the city was given a clean government, receiving full value for any money expended, that the city employees should receive their salaries promptly, and that the city should pay its debts when due. Mr. Broida gave as references several large wholesale houses of Chicago, St. Louis, Cincinnati and Springfield, and also referred to the large number of people who constantly did business with him and could vouch for his honesty of purpose and dealing. He voiced the opinion that the affairs of the city could best be conducted on a business basis by men of extensive business experience. With this strong appeal to the good sense and judgment of the voters of Springfield, he left the decision with them.

Mr. Broida was born in 1876. He was married in 1897 and seven children have been born of this union, five of whom attend the public school in the city. Mr. Broida has been active in his interest in the affairs of his locality. He would be glad to see all the streets of the city well paved, and is a strong advocate of the movement for adding to its cleanliness and beauty, so that the capital city may be a model in this respect.

BRONSON, Augustus I - Exponents of the legal profession are proud of that fact so generally recognized, that the most brilliant public men -of the country have been recruited from their ranks. The careful training, the exactness of perception, the ability to differentiate between right and wrong, and the eloquence, which are so distinctive of members of this profession, have always fitted them for public life. Sangamon County has furnished the State with a number of its distinguished 'men, and also with attorneys who have been associated with much of the important jurisprudence of the State. One of the distinguished lawyers of that part of the State is the venerable Augustus I. Bronson, of Williamsville, who for many years was a shining legal light of the county.

Mr. Bronson was born in Dutchess County, N. Y., May 20, 1832, a son of Josiah W. and Sarah (Voorhees) Bronson. The father was born in Connecticut in 1797, while the mother was a native of Long Island, N. Y. After losing his wife in Dutchess County, N. Y., Josiah W. Bronson moved to Chicago and there spent the few remaining years of his useful life, passing away when sixty-five years of age. He was a farmer earlier in life and an earnest, purposeful man.

Augustus I. Bronson was educated in New York State and was brought up modestly and strictly. As a lad he was noted for his bashful disposition, which he struggled hard to overcome. When fifteen years old he began working to secure sufficient money to educate himself, for he had decided to become a lawyer. Working early and late and carefully saving every cent he could spare, he finally secured sufficient instruction to enable him to pass an examination for the calling of a teacher. For some years thereafter he taught in the public schools and during the summer months, and at the same time studied law. Later in life he resumed the farming of his youth, and now owns valuable property in the village of Wil- About three years ago he had the misfortune to lose his eyesight, but is very cheerful and takes pleasure in his home, the devotion of his wife and adopted children, and the visits of his neighbors.

On August 12, 1862, Mr. Bronson enlisted in Company C, One Hundred and Fourteenth Tlinois Volunteer Infantry, under Captain Mallory. Being detailed to hospital service, he served as nurse, and proved so efficient that later he was made steward, receiving an honorable discharge in August, 1865. The Christian Church holds his membership. He is a Republican, and has been active in the councils of his party, although never seeking public preferment.

On February 4, 1871, Mr. Bronson was married in Springfield to Mary M. Lake, born June 28, 1850, in Sangamon County, a daughter of Thomas and Harriet Lake, born in Virginia, the former December 20, 1800, and the latter November 27, 1808. Mr. and Mrs. Lake came from Virginia to Central Illinois in 1833, making the long trip across country by wagons. Mr. Bronson has reared a boy and a girl and given them all the care he would if they had been his own. In spite of his affliction he is very cheerful and his estimable wife is a charming lady, who presides with dignity over her house- hold and is numbered among the notable housewives of her neighborhood. Her recollection of pioneer days is remarkable, for she recalls not only her own experiences, but those told her by her parents and childhood neighbors. If space could be given to the accounts she so graphically relates, they would not only make pleasant reading, but prove valuable to those interested in preserving a true picture of early days in Illinois. Both Mr. and Mrs. Bronson stand high in the estimation of their neighbors, among whom they have dwelt for so many years, and to whom they have always proven tried and true friends.

BROOKS, Andrew Mears, educator and former Superintendent of Schools of both the city of Springfield and Sangamon County, is a native of Oxford, Ohio, born October 9, 1831, a son of Kennedy and Elizabeth Hill (Butler) Brooks. Kennedy Brooks, the father, was of Scotch-Irish ancestry, a farmer by occupation and proprietor of an excellent farm in the vicinity of Oxford, Ohio, where he was deeply interested in the cause of education. He and his wife were the parents of five sons and five daughters, all of whom received a liberal classical education, three of the sons also serving as soldiers during the Civil War. Mrs. Elizabeth Hill (Butler) Brooks, the mother, was of sturdy Puritan stock, the first of her branch of the family coming to America in 1680. Andrew M. Brooks is a lineal descendant (as great-grandson) of Ebenezer Larned, who led the Massachusetts Brigade at the Battle of Saratoga, and was also connected by maternal descent with Generals Hill and Butler, who were soldiers of the Revolution.

The subject of this sketch -grew up on his father's farm, and imbibing studious habits from his surroundings, became a student in Miami University, from which he graduated as salutatorian of his class in 1850, still later receiving the Ph. D. degree from Wooster University. After retiring from college he engaged for a time in teaching in Ohio, but on September 4, 1855, was married in Oxford, Ohio, to Eliza Johnson Welch, after which he and his wife went to Mississippi, where they conducted a private academy until 1858, when they came to Springfield, which has been the family home to the present time, and where Mr. and Mrs. Brooks celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary in 1905. (A fuller sketch of Mrs. Brooks, now deceased, will be found in the succeeding section.)

Soon after coming to Springfield Mr. Brooks engaged in teaching as Principal of the First Ward School, but almost immediately was placed in charge of the newly established High School, which he retained one year. His later connection with the High School as Principal at two different periods covered some ten years, for about fifteen years was Superintendent of the City Schools and for eight years (1886-90 and 1894-98) County Superintendent. The number and importance of the positions he has held in connection with the city and county schools, covering a period of over fifty years, have entitled him to rank as the Nestor in the field of local education. He is credited with having been the first to bring the crayon pencil into use in the Springfield city schools as a substitute for chalk upon the blackboard, and also with having introduced drawing and music as branches of instruction in the same. At the present time (1912), as a member of the faculty of Bettie Stuart Institute, in conjunction with his daughters and others, he is still on duty devoting his attention to instruction in Latin, Greek and Mathematics.

In politics Mr. Brooks is a long-time Republican, is a member and ruling elder of the First Presbyterian Church, Springfield, and fraternally Past Master of Central Lodge, No. T1, A. F. & A. M. ; is also a member of Illinois Chapter Sons of the American Revolution. He is owner of 190 acres of valuable farming land in the zinc mining district in the vicinity of Joplin, Mo., but in partial retirement, in connection with his daughters, is devoting his most active labors to the interests of the Bettie Stuart Institute.

BROOKS, (Mrs.) Eliza Johnson (Welch), deceased wife of Andrew M. Brooks, was born in Cadiz, Ohio, May 14, 1827, a daughter of Rev. Johnson and Eliza (Daugherty) Welch - her father being a Presbyterian minister and President of Franklin College, Ohio, and some time before his death the youngest College President in the United States. His widow later married Rey. John S. McCracken, a son of the latter, Dr. H. M. McCracken, being the present Chancellor of New York University. Her mother was one of the founders of what is now the Western Female Academy at Oxford, Ohio, from which the daughter graduated at the age of sixteen years. Her marriage to Mr. Brooks took place at Oxford, Ohio, September 4, 1855, and, after spending three years in the State of Mississippi, as explained in the sketch of Mr. Brooks, they came to Springfield, Ill., where later both were prominently identified with educational interests. On the death, in 1888, of Mrs. Mary Mc- Kee Holmes, the first Principal of Bettie Stuart Institute, Mrs. Brooks was invited by the Board of Trustees to accept that position which she did, retaining it until her own death on March 25, 1909. In a brief memorial tribute to her memory prepared by Rev. T. D. Logan, Secretary of the Board, and adopted by that body, in recognition of the value of her services as Principal of the Institute, it is said: "For this she was well qualified by her early education in literature, science and art, and by her administrative abilities, which were of the highest order. The present prosperous condition of the Institute is due very largely to her careful oversight of its affairs. Her motherly counsel has been of invaluable benefit to large numbers of young ladies who have been under her care in the last twenty years. Her influence was not confined to the school, but in the First Presbyterian Church, with which she was connected for more than fifty years, she was actively engaged in every good work, and the fragrance of her memory pervades the entire community. She rests from her labors, and her works do follow her."

Mr. and Mrs. Brooks were the parents of nine children: four sons - Kennedy, James, Robert, and Andrew M., Jr.; and five daughters - Mary E., Margaret E., Anne H., Frances and Alice J., all of whom reached their maturity and all still survive except Robert, who died in 1865. The daughters are all at present connected with various departments of Bettie Stuart Institute, their labors being attended by gratifying results. (For further: details of the labors of both Mr. and Mrs. Brooks, see Chapters XXVI and XXVII of this volume on "Educational - Publie Schools" and "Higher Institutions." ) BROOKS, James F., better known as Fred

Brooks, has been a resident on his farm in Springfield Township, since 1870. He was born in Woodside Township, Sangamon County, October 12, 1859, a son of James W. and Martha (Ricker) Brooks, the former born in Cambridge, Mass., January 26, 1822, died October 14, 1900, and the latter born in Shapleigh, Me., December 2, 1825, died January 28, 1889. The parents moved from Massachusetts to Sangamon County, in 1856, but four years later returned to Worcester County, Mass., still later on coming back to Sangamon County locating on Section 11, Springfield Township, where both died. Their children were: Hmma C., Mrs. Charles Colglazier, living in Denver, Colo.; Mrs. Ella M. Jones, living in Arkansas City, Kan.; Belinda, wife of John Jones, also of Arkansas City; Aletta, Mrs. Davis, of San Antonio, Tex. ; Miss Ida F., of San Antonio; Charles, Frank, Mattie and Elizabeth, deceased; and James F.

James F. Brooks received his early education in the district schools of Sangamon County, taking a supplementary course at a business college. He took up farming after leaving school, and has forty acres of land in his present farm, which he has occupied for forty years. At the age of five years, he visited the car in which Abraham Lincoln's body was brought from Washington to Springfield, and can remember that occasion. He has been an active and prosperous farmer and gardener, making his work yield him good profits. Possessing good business judgment he has brought his land to a high state of cultivation.

Mr. Brooks was married in Sangamon County October 24, 1883, to Kate W. Sanner, born October 9, 1859, at St. Marys, Md., a daughter of John and Anna (Watkins) Sanner, the former born October 1, 1824, and the latter April 25, 1839. Mr. Sanner came from Maryland to Springfield in 1861, and in 1873 moved to Mis- souri, remained there one year, and returned to Sangamon County, where he lived until his death, December 2, 1895. Mrs. Sanner died September 12, 1897. They were parents of nine children, viz: Walter W., born in Maryland, October 22, 1853; Ida, born October 13, 1856, married William H. Harbison, a contractor and builder of Springfield; Mrs. James F. Brooks; Mrs. Mary H. Woods, a widow, who was born February 18, 1862; Louis M., born March 24, 1864, died in infancy; Mrs. Emma L. Rotramel, whose husband, Robert Rotramel, was for twenty years custodian at the Fair Grounds at Springfield; John W., born March 1, 1870; Ira L., born December 8, 1873; Luella L., Mrs. Page, born January 25, 1875.

Mr. Brooks and wife had five children: Nellie A., born July 11, 1884; Ruth I., January 19, 1886; Grace N., June 24, 1888; Martha R., August 13, 1889; Esther M., September 12, 1894. Mr. Brooks has four grandchildren: Lawrence Russell Hamrick, born September 24, 1907; David F. Hamrick, born July 26, 1909; Stuart Owen Bennett, born December 28, 1908; Helen Louise Bennett, born September 15, 1910. Mr. Brooks was elected School Director several times, and served three years as School Trustee. He is a Republican in politics, and greatly interested in anything he believes will advance the prosperity or progress of his community. He is a member of the Baptist Church, and also belongs to Lodge No. 4, A. F. & A. M., of Springfield, and has for twenty years belonged to the M. W. of A.

After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Brooks lived with his parents until the following spring, then a double house of thirteen rooms was erected, and the young couple lived in one side, while the parents and sister of Mr. Brooks lived in the other. On the morning of February 9, 1899, when the mercury was 26 degrees below zero, the members of the household were aroused between twelve and one o'clock, by a fire, and the house, with all its nice furniture, was consumed, the only things saved being the family Bible and two rocking chairs. The occupants were barely able to escape, in their night clothes. J. F. Brooks was away on a trip to Arkansas City, Kan., at the time, transacting some business for his father, and did not learn of the event until he was on his return trip, when a friend, met on the train between Alton and Springfield, informed him of it. Upon arriving home, he found his father and sister living in a building that had been used as a summer kitchen, and his own family with a brother-in-law at the State Fair Grounds. Plans were at once drawn and two fine houses erected, in one of which J. F. Brooks and family have since continued to reside. On May 31 of the same year the large Brooks barn was destroyed by a cyclone.

who have spent years in honest labor preparing themselves for their chosen profession, and are learned not only in various branches, but also in the science of pedagogy. One of those who have done much in this line for the growing generation, is Benjamin S. Brown, of Mechanicsburg. He was born in Ohio, October 14, 1844, the son of Uriah Brown. The father was a Methodist minister who came to Shelby County, Ill., in 1854, but later went to Decatur, where he died in 1892. The mother died when Mr. Brown was nine years old. Mr. Brown has three half-brofhers, one of whom lives in Decatur, and a half-sister who lives in Lafayette, Ind., and an own sister, Mrs. Nancy A. Bundy, who resides in Moultrie County.

The position attained by Mr. Brown is remarkable for he educated himself, and passing regular examinations, secured a position in a school at Shelbyville, Il. He also taught at Dawson, Sangamon County, for one term, and then went to Buffalo for one term. Later he was at Buckhart for seven terms, for one term at Oak Hill, for the following two terms was at Longdale, Logan County, and for one term taught at Williamsville. He then moved to Springfield, where he taught two terms, when he was called to Mechanicsburg, and there taught several terms. His next school was at Salisbury, whence, after one term, he went to Auburn, where he taught a term, returning to Mechanicsburg, in 1898.

Mr. Brown was a veteran of the Civil War, having enlisted, August 5, 1861, in the Thirtyfirst Illinois Volunteer Infantry, but was transferred to Company G, Fifty-third, and served in that regiment until he was mustered out July 22, 1865. Among other important engagements in which he participated were the battle of Shiloh, and Sherman's campaign before At- Janta and on his March to the Sea. Through it all, Mr. Brown was a loyal and brave soldier, and deserved the pension which was paid him by a grateful Government. Naturally he was interested in G. A. R. matters, was a member of the G. A. R. Post at Buffalo, belonged to the Modern Woodmen and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He was very prominent in the Methodist Church, being a local preacher, and it is difficult to estimate the full amount of good his life and example effected. In politics, he was a Republican.

On November 24, 1881, Mr. Brown was married in Sangamon County to Anna V. Heiss, daughter.of M. L. D. M. and Susan (Snelling) Heiss, both of whom died in 1900, only two months apart, the mother at Pleasant Plains, and the father at Mechanicsburg. Mr. Heiss was a nurse during the Civil War, and because of his efforts in ministering to others, took sick and was discharged on account of disability. He and his wife had children as follows: Mrs. Chester Mowray of Pleasant Plains; J. A., of Springfield; Mrs. Helen Edison of North Carolina; Mrs. Charles Wilson of Mechanicsburg ; William of Mechanicsburg, and Mrs. Brown.

There were several others who died young. Mr. and Mrs. Brown had five children: James, at home; Bruce, Hattie R., Bernice and Charles F., also at home. Mr. Brown died November 2, 1910, after a life devoted to the service of others, filled with Christian deeds and works of charity.

BROWN, George H. - Springfield has long been the Mecca for ambitious men from other States, for here they realized was a promising future for the man willing to work, and many have swarmed to our capital resolved to win a fortune in some line of endeavor. One of the men who accomplished much and has always stood high in the esteem of his fellow-townsmen, both as a business man and public official, is George H. Brown, one time merchant and postmaster. He was born at Georgetown, Ky., May 14, 1835, a son of George D. and Mary (Adams) Brown, both of Kentucky. The father was a merchant, who spent his life in Kentucky, dying there as also did his wife, the latter passing away when George H. Brown was only three years old. There were six sons and three daughters in the family, and of these two of the sons served in the Mexican War. Of this family of nine children, George H. is the only survivor.

Mr. Brown received a good education in the Georgetown schools, and during his boyhood worked on a farm. 'Leaving home he went to Louisville, Ky., where he worked in a large commission house, but after remaining there two years, then came to Sangamon County, locating in Williamsville, where he operated a general store for several years. During this time, he was appointed Postmaster by President Buchanan, this appointment being renewed by President Lincoln. Later, Mr. Brown engaged in farming near Williamsville, but in 1890, came to Springfield, serving as Deputy Sheriff under Sheriff Murray. He was then clerk in the State House for a short time, but later he was elected Constable on the Democratic ticket, serving for four years.

During the Civil War Mr. Brown was general clerk for H. C. Myers at Camp Butler, and has always been ready to give his assistance whenever it was needed for the furtherance of public affairs. Although being a Democrat, he differed form Mr, Lincoln in political sentiment. Mr. Brown was a great admirer of the illustrious President and heard him speak upon many occasions. No one in Springfield has a clearer recollection of the great man, and no one recognizes his worth more clearly. Mr. Brown has long been connected with the Presbyterian Church in Springfield, and gives church affairs especial attention since his retirement in 1908.

On January 24, 1860, occurred the marriage, at Williamsville, of George H. Brown and Sarah Flag. The latter was born in Ohio, October 1, 1837, the daughter of Abraham and Sarah Flag, and was brought by her parents from that State to Williamsville at an early day, the family settling on a farm which the father operated in conjunction with his blacksmith shop, and there the parents lived until their demise. Mr. and Mrs. Brown became the parents of two children: Frank and Nellie, both of whom are deceased. Mr. Brown owns his residence at No. 541 Elliott Avenue, and is a man of means. He has earned fairly and honorably the respect which his neighbors and associates accord him, and is correctly considered one of the best representatives of the older generation now residing in Springfield.

BROWN, Harmon, an able and well-known business man of Springfield, Ill., belongs to a family that has long been highly respected in that city. He was born at Cairo, Ill., December 21, 1861, a son of John H. and Clara (Stafford) Brown, the father a native of Kentucky and the mother of Macon County, Ill. His paternal grandparents were of Scotch-Irish ancestry and, on the mother's side, the grandparents were of English descent. John H. Brown was a druggist by occupation and became an early settler at Cario, Ill., where he engaged in the drug business. In 1862 he established a drug store at Springfield, and for two years occupied a building on the corner now used by the Herndon Dry Goods Store. In 1864 he removed to Grass Valley, Cal., where he spent the remainder of his life, his death occurring there in the latter part of that year. His widow is now living in Springfield and has become the wife of Dr. Townsend. They were parents of three sons and one daughter. The two brothers of Harmon Brown are now deceased and his sister, Mrs. Augustus Ayers, lives in Memphis, Tenn.

Mr. Brown received his education in the public schools of Springfield and, in 1879, on account of poor health, spent sometime traveling through the West. After returning from this trip he engaged in retail business in Springfield, which he continued several years, then accepted his present position as Superintendent of the Woodside Coal & Mining Company, which he has since ably filled. He is also a member of the Springfield Chamber of Commerce, and actively interested in public affairs. In his present position he has charge of extensive business interests and is filling a post of considerable responsibility.

Mr. Brown was married in Springfield, in June, 1886, to Mary W. Stebbins, who was born in that city June 16, 1864, daughter of Oscar F. and Sarah E. (Warner) Stebbins, the former a native of Massachusetts and the latter of New York State. The father was a hardware merchant and for many years carried on a business in Springfield, where he located in 1862. He remained in business until his death in 1906, and the mother now resides in Springfield. There was but one son and one daughter in the family, and the former, M. W. Stebbins, of Springfield, is a clerk for the Hudson Hardware Company. One child has blessed the

BROWN, Jacob, retired barber and farmer, residence near Pleasant Plains, Sangamon County, is a veteran of the Civil War whose military career is of more than common interest. 30rn in Knox County, Ohio, March 16, 1835, he is a son of Nathan and Elizabeth (Long) Brown. His parents were natives of York County, Pa., where they grew up and married. Nathan Brown's mother, grandmother of the subject of this sketch, had two sons, who were orphaned by her early death. One of them was apprenticed to a wagonmaker, and the other, Nathan, was apprenticed to a blacksmith. Their father soon joined the Mormons and went West as a minister of that faith, and is supposed to have been killed at Carthage, Mo. After having completed his trade, Nathan married Elizabeth Long in their native county. Susan and Abraham, two of their eight children, were born there. She died aged twenty-three years, and he is a well-to-do farmer at Wapello, Iowa. The family moved to' Knox County, Ohio, about 1884, and from there to Circleville, Pickaway County, where the father was a teacher of languages. A self-educated man, of many attainments, he was especially proficient in English and German, and became a leader among educators in that part of the State, as well as an influential Democrat of the old school. He passed away about 1848, and his widow in 1852. Their daughter Barbara married J. W. Frost and settled in Worth County, Mo., where she died in 1873; Jacob was next in order of birth; John, now retired, is living at Wabash, Ind.; Nancy J. married John Bird, who enlisted in an Ohio regiment and was killed at Chickamauga, and she lives with her brother Abraham; William, a member of the Thirty-third Regiment, Illinois Volunteer Infantry, died in service in the Civil War and is buried in a soldiers' cemetery at Memphis, Tenn.; Elizabeth became the wife of Jonathan Sommins, a farmer, of Worth County, Mo., and is dead; Isaac, third in order of nativity, served in the Civil War under General Logan, as a member of the Thirtieth Regiment, Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and is now living in retirement in Pickaway County, Ohio, after a successful career as a farmer. Another son died in infancy.

Jacob Brown accompanied his parents from Knox County to Pickaway County, Ohio. He began his education at Circleville, and after his mother's death went. to work on a farm. In 1854, when he was nineteen years old, he was impelled by the Western fever, as it was manifested in that part of Ohio at that time, to seek his fortune in Illinois, and joined his brotherin-law, J. W. Frost, who was then living on a farm four miles southwest of Pleasant Plains.

In the spring of 1855 he went to work for Edwin Tomlin. Later he was for a time in the employ of Marlina Macy. Meanwhile his home was with Mr. and Mrs. Frost, and in 1857 he found opportunity to attend school for a time. December 15th of that year, he married Miss Frances Elder, born in Cartwright Township, March 19, 1839, a daughter of Stephen and Elizabeth (Tomlin) Elder, who came from Cape May, N. J., and were among the pioneers in the township named. After marriage Mr. Brown rented a farm in Cartwright Township. The spring of 1858 being wet and unpromising, he entered the employ of J. R. Black, in which he continued, at farm labor, until the outbreak of the Civil War. He then began farming for himself on rented land in Pleasant Plains Township. He was so employed until August 8, 1862, when he enlisted in Company F, One Hundred and Fourteenth Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry, for three years or during the war. The regiment was organized at Camp Butler, near Springfield and sent to Memphis, Tenn. Soon it was involved in the historic sixty-three battles from Jackson, Miss., on to the siege of Vicksburg. Ordered back to Jackson, it was included in the Eleventh Brigade under Colonel Wilkins, which consisted of this regiment, the Seventy-second Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, the Ninety-third Regiment

Ninety-fifth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was engaged in scouting and similar work. In all this service to and including the battle of Guntown, Mr. Brown took gallant part. On June 1, 1864, General S. D. Sturgis started his command, consisting of nine cavalry regiments numbering more than ten thousand men, whose bravery had been proven on many a hard-fought field. On June 9, Sturgis marched his command to the Hatchie Bottom, east of Ripley, Miss. On the following day occurred the disaster at Guntown, where the Confederate General Forest, with only 4,700 men, defeated Sturgis, capturing his wagon train of 250 wagons, his ammunition and all his infantry arms and accoutrements and about 8,000 men of the infantry division, more than half of whom were starved or shot in Confederate prison pens. The army was routed and Sturgis, with his staff, made a dash for Memphis, and as for the rank and file it was every man for himself. Mr. Brown, after two days' pursuit by detachments of the enemy, was captured near Salem, Miss., and taken a prisoner. to Andersonville, Ga., there to undergo experiences that he can never forget. He relates that General Sturgis made no report of this disaster, which occurred just when a Federal victory seemed imminent, but that several reports were made by subordinate officers. In the language of one of these the petitioners represented and de- cared "that said disaster and all its terrible consequences were attributable to and caused solely by the drunkenness, cowardice and gross incompetency of S. D. Sturgis, commander of the expedition." Mr. Brown was captured June 12, 1864, and kept at Andersonville till September 21 following, when he was removed to Savannah. Later he was taken to Millen Prison, to Blackshear, and to Thomasville, Ga. On December 24, 1864, he was returned to the prison hell at Andersonville. There he remained till April 15, 1865, when he was transferred to Lake City, Fla. There he was put on board a stock train and carried to within twenty-two miles of Jacksonville, that State, where he and many companion prisoners were turned loose. Making their way to Jacksonville, they found the town occupied by Union soldiers and were sent by boat to New York City. Mr. Brown was honorably discharged July 17, 1865, and returned to Illinois.

Until August, 1868, Mr. Brown was employed in the weighing department at a coal shaft. He then opened a barber shop at Pleasant Plains, which he managed successfully until 1907, when he sold it in order to retire from active life. He bought a home in 1866. His present home on Third Street, Pleasant Plains, he bought in 1903. Mr. and Mrs. Brown have long been active in the affairs of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of Pleasant Plains. He is an influential Grand Army man and is a well known member of the Pleasant Plains Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons. He cast his first vote for Lincoln in 1860, and has acted with the Republican party ever since. In 1864, when he was in a Confederate prison, he and his companions in misery were told that if they would vote for McClellan for President as against Lincoln they would receive double rations; but, although food was very scarce and always gladly welcomed, the result of the vote was two to one in favor of Lincoln. Mr. Brown has ably filled the office of Mayor of Pleasant Plains.

Mr. and Mrs. Brown have had twelve children, seven of whom are living: Molly H. is the wife of John Dobbert, a farmer in Cartwright Township; George, Jacob and Charles died in infancy; Frances married James Carpenter ; William F. lives at Jacksonville, Ill.; James E. is a resident of Chicago; David F. died, aged thirty-four years, and John I., aged thirty-six; Abraham L. lives at Jacksonville, Ill.; Albert lives at Arrowsmith, Ill., and Ray R. is a member of his parents' household.

BROWN, William. - The mining interests of Sangamon County are of such magnitude that they afford employment for many of the most reliable men of the locality, as well as giltedged investment for local and outside capital. A number of progressive men combine mining with farming operations, securing very satisfact- ory results. One who has been successful as miner and farmer is William Brown, of Clear Lake Township. He was born at Eugene, Vermillion County, Ind., a son of Israel Brown, a farmer who was born in Connecticut, although his wife was born in Pennsylvania. In an early day Israel Brown moved to Indiana and located on a farm, which he continued to operate until his death. During the Civil War he proved a loyal American, serving three years and participating in many of the notable engagements that stained the country's map with blood.

The education of William Brown was obtained in the country schools of his native State, and although the advantages were not such as are enjoyed by the children of today, he there laid a good foundation upon which, by reading and observation, he built a substantial structure. While attending school he worked on the farm, assisting his father and gaining from him a practical knowledge of agricultural life. In 1883 he came to Illinois, attracted by the mines, and located at Dawson, where he worked for two years. Following this he moved to Barclay and for seven years was engaged in mining at that point. Pittsburg, Kan., was his next place of residence, but after a year there he returned to Indiana. For seven years his native State claimed him, during which time he was successfully engaged in farming, then again located in Illinois, buying four acres in Clear Lake Township, which has since remained his home. He is now engaged in mining and farming and is satisfied with the results from both lines of endeavor.

Mr. Brown was married in Springfield (first) to Mary De Costa, born in Springfield who died in 1890. The second marriage of Mr. Brown occurred January 26, 1891, to Lucy Welsh, daughter of A. R. Welsh. Mr. Welsh was one of the pioneers of Sangamon County and has been connected with its development and growth in commercial, political and agricultural importance. Although advanced in years, Mr. Welsh survives, and is an important factor in his community. There is no issue of either marriage.

There are a number of men like Mr. Brown who make their home in Sangamon County. They have not pushed themselves forward in political matters, preferring to exert a quiet influence for good government and moral uplift. Huge corporations do not number them among their officials or heavy stockholders, their work being done in an unostentatious way as individuals. They have not made their mark as professional men, nor sought fame as writers, artists or musicians, yet they have become potent factors in the solid, substantial strata of the county. In private life, as in warfare, it is not the brilliant accomplishments or successes of the few that make for victory, but the achievements of the rank and file. It is the work of the everyday men that counts in the aggregate. Thus it is that in a history of this kind it is important to outline, although too briefly, the life record of those to whom so much is justly due. Mr. Brown owes his success to no chance of fortune; he has not inherited great wealth nor made it through the work of others, but what he has is but the just result of a life of toil, directed by intelligent effort.

BROWNBACK, Charles E., M. D. C., one of the prominent members of his profession in Sangamon County today, and at present serving as City Veterinarian of Springfield, was born on a farm at Tower Hill, Shelby County, Ill., April 15, 1871. He is a son of Edward and Eliza Ann Brownback, and grandson of Henry Brownback, the latter a native of Pennsylvania, who brought his family west in an early day and settled in Shelby County. Edward Brownback was a farmer, grain-dealer and druggist, and now resides at Ashland, I1., which has been his home for many years. Charles E. Brownback attended the public schools of Pleasant Plains and Ashland, Ill., and in 1896, graduated from the Chicago Veterinary College. He practiced one year at Pleasant Plains, two years at Peru, Ind., two years at Ashland, and three years at Virginia, Ill., and in 1906, located in Springfield, where he has built up a large practice in his line. He is a thorough master of his profession, and his advice is widely sought among his fellow practitioners, with whom he has a high standing. Mr. Brownback was married to Miss Kate

Merele, of Indianapolis, Ind., daughter of Nicholas and Annie Merele. No children have been born of this union. Dr. Brownback has made many warm friends in Springfield during his residence here, and fraternally is connected with the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks, and the Modern Woodmen of America. In politics, he is a stanch Republican and active in expressing his interest in public affairs. He resides at 514% East Capitol Avenue, and his hospital is located at 320 South Fourth Street. He has for the past two years held the office of City Veterinarian with credit to himself and the position.

BROWNING, Alfred M. - The farmer of today feels justified in retiring from active pursuits at an earlier date than those of his fellows who, are engaged in other lines, for not only are the requirements of agricultural life severe, but the profits are of sufficient magnitude to warrant such leisure. One of the substantial residents of Divernon, Ill, now resting after a long and busy life, is Alfred M. Browning. He was born in Greene County, Ill., April 7, 1887, a son of M. and Mary J. (Wood) Browning, natives of Kentucky. The Brownings and Woods were old residents of that State, and prominent in its history during the early days. Michael Browning was a Baptist minister, and an early settler of Greene County, where he died in 1842, when only thirty-eight years old. His widow survived him until 1860, when she too passed away. Of the children born to himself and wife four sons survive: the eldest of Springfield, aged seventy-nine years; Perry, of Chicago, aged seventy-seven years; George, of Montgomery County, Ill, aged seventyfive years; Alfred M., aged seventy-three years (1910).

The boyhood of Alfred M. Browning was spent in Greene County, where he was educated, and when he was twenty years of age, he commenced farming for himself, having previously gained a knowledge of the work. Until 1885 he remained in Greene County, then moved to Montgomery County, purchasing a farm of 170 acres near Litchfield. This he developed into a fine property, operating it until his retirement in 1908, when he settled in Divernon, Ill., his present home. All his life he has been fond of outdoor sports, and owes his good health to this fact.

Mr. Browning was married in Greene County, December 21, 1861, to Lucetta Marshall, born there, June 6, 1844, daughter of Sanford and Mary (Mulberry) Marshall, natives of Kentucky, the former a farmer who came to Greene County at an early date, dying there. His widow died in Madison County, Ill. The grandparents of Mrs. Browning on both sides lived and died in Kentucky. Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Browning: Mariette, born in Greene County (as were all but the youngest), in September, 1862, married John Studebaker, of Indiana, who died in Bond County, Ill., in 1900, issue - Claude, Paul, Mary, John, Harl, Junietta, Pearl, living, and Mildred C. and Lucetta, deceased; Charles K., born March 5, 1864, married Belle Christopher, lives at Divernon, issue - two living and one deceased; Frank E., born in July, 1868, married a Miss Coe, lives in Toledo, Ohio, issue - Justice, Lillian, Coe, and one deceased; Herbert A., born July 12, 1874, married Grace Barnett, lives in Missouri, is a minister of the Christian Church in Queen City, issue - Richard A., Hildegard and Eliza; and Wade, born in Montgomery County, June 6, 1880, married Hthel Kane, lives in his native county, engaged in farming, no issue; and Sanford and Marshall, deceased.

Fraternally Mr. Browning is a Mason. While a Democrat in his political faith, he is broadgauged enough to realize that at times it is better, in local affairs, to vote for the man rather than for the party. He served as County Treasurer of Greene County, also Justice of the Peace and Highway Commissioner. His religious training and belief make him a Baptist, and he is a liberal supporter of the church. Both he and his wife stand high in their community. Possessing generous dispositions and kindly inclinations, they enjoy doing good and are never happier than when entertaining their friends in their cosy home. The example of their upright, useful lives is one that cannot be overestimated, and to them could be truly said: "Well done, good and faithful servants." has been a resident of Sangamon County since 1867. Mr. Bruce was born near Murrayville, Morgan County, Ill., November 27, 1841, a son of William and Mary W. (Gunn) Bruce, both natives of Tennessee, the latter born in Dixon County, that State, May 11, 1808. The parents came to Illinois in 1830, locating on Governor Dunean's place at Jacksonville. The mother came to Springfield in 1881, and lived with her son Francis until her death, in 1889. William Bruce died when Francis was a small boy, and the mother was twice married. Six sons were born to William Bruce and his wife, all of whom are deceased except the subject of this sketch. A half-brother of Francis H. Bruce (Robert C. McAlister) now lives near Camp Lincoln. One brother, Benjamin P., served in the Civil War three years. The mother of Francis H. Bruce was one of ten children, who died at the age of seventy years.

Mr. Bruce received his education in the subscription schools of Illinois, where log buildings were furnished with slab seats. He worked on a farm for his uncle until he was eighteen years of age, and in 1861 enlisted in Company I, Fourteenth Illinois Infantry, being mustered in at Camp Duncan, Jacksonville. They were sent to Quincy, Il., had a little skirmish at Canton, Mo., and captured Senator Green, then went down through Missouri. The first battle in which they participated was at Shiloh, Tenn., a two days' engagement. They were at Hatchie River one day, participated in the siege of Vicksburg, where the enemy surrendered July 3d, 1868. While in the service Mr. Bruce became a Corporal. After leaving Vicksburg his regiment went to Tennessee and was on duty as guard to supply trains on the Chattanooga & Atlanta Railroad. Mr. Bruce was captured at Moon Station, near Big Shanty, taken to Andersonville prison and held there six months. When released he returned to Vicksburg, arriving there March 28, 1865, and was in that city when President Lincoln was assassinated. He proceeded to St. Louis, obtained a furlough and spent one month at home, then returned, but was finally mustered out at Camp Butler, June 21, 1865.

After the close of the war Mr. Bruce returned to Murrayville, Ill., and in 1867 came to Springfield. In politics he is a Republican and in 1909 was elected Justice of the Peace, also served as School Director of the Ridgely School in 1897. He is a member of Stephenson Post No. 30 G. A. R., and in 1910 made a trip to the scene of the Battle of Shiloh, which occurred forty-eight years before. He says the place bears little resemblance to the scene as he remembers it at the time of the famous battle. In religious views Mr. Bruce is a member of the United Brethren Church. He has spent his life in hard work and at one time owned some land, but has now sold most of it. He was a successful farmer and a good business manager. As the result of an industrious life, he has a most comfortable home at 2402 Peoria Road, adjacent to Springfield, where he has lived for

The parents came from Mississippi at an early date, locating- in Sangamon County, Ill, where they operated a farm. They had six children of whom three are now living. Mr. Bruce and his wife have had the following children: Ida Bell, born March 7, 1882, married Thomas Davis, a janitor at the State House in Springfield; Emma F., born December 20, 1883, is the widow of Roy Stanton, and is employed at the postoflice in Springfield; Jennie, born April 2, 1886, married Jesse Easton, who owns a sawmill in Sangamon County; Harry W., born October 31, 1888, has for three years been an employe in the meter department of the Illinois Watch Company, but is now employed in the same capacity in Paterson, N. J. Mr. Bruce is much respected as a public-spirited, useful citizen and honored for his service in the Civil War. He stands well in the community and is identified with its progress and welfare.

BRUESTLE, John J. - In the condition of more or less friendliness which characterizes international relations in these early years of the twentieth century, it makes little general difference what country may claim one's birth, but personally it remains a matter of pride and, in every American city, the German looks back fondly to his fatherland, no matter how highly he is esteemed nor how prominent he may have become. Among those citizens who have become representative of life in Springfield, is John J. Bruestle, whose comfortable, attractive and hospitable home is situated at No. 908 North Ninth Street, that city. Mr. Bruestle was born in the Province of Wurtemberg, Germany, May 13, 1854, the son Jacob and Mary (Keck) Bruestle. Their home always remained in the city of Rottenberg, where the father was a man of prominance and served as mayor for thirty-five consecutive years. This record is especially honorable as the law provides that such an official is continued in office during good behavior and a long period of incumbrency proves the honesty and efficiency of the occupant of the office.

John J. Bruestle remained in his father's home in Germany, where he was well brought up, until he came to America and gained an excellent public school education. He then learned the butchering business, and that continued to be his occupation until he retired from business life. Mr. Bruestle has been very active in Republican politics and has served as State Meat Inspector under two State executives, being twice appointed under Governor Yates and again under Governor Deneen. He has held other important offices, having served as Inspector of Weights and Measures, as Deputy Collector and as Assessor. In all these offices his public duties have been performed

Mr. Bruestle was married at Springfield, Ill., to Miss Elizabeth Mann, who also came from good old German stock. Her parents were Henry and Theresa Mann and both came to America when young, the father from a Prus- Sian province and the mother from Bavaria. They settled at Cumberland, Md., where the father followed the butchering business. In 1880, Miss Mann came to Springfield and on October 20, 1881, she was married to Mr. sruestle. They have had two children: Mary, who was born December 21, 1883, died December 16, 1906, and was buried in Oak Ridge Cemetery; and Jacob J., who was born November 20, 1885, resides with his parents. Mr. Bruestle and his family are members of the Lutheran Church. He belongs to the Odd Fellows and to the Blue Lodge Chapter and Council in Masonry, all at Springfield.

BRUNK, Charles Allen, an enterprising and progressive farmer of Ball Township, Sangamon County, Ill, was born near his present home, in that township, August 26, 1870, spending his boyhood on his father's farm and attending the country schools. He is a son of Jacob and Emily J. (Mason) Brunk, the former of whom was born in Ball Township and there spent his entire life, and the latter a native of Chatham Township. Jacob Brunk was born November 5, 1884, and died May 10, 1891, being buried in Brunk Cemetery. He was a farmer all his life and was a son of David Brunk, a native of Ohio, who came to Sangamon County in an early day and spent the remainder of his life there. David Brunk served in the Black Hawk War and was one of the prominent pioneers of Ball Township. Emily J. Mason was born July 25, 1847, and now lives in Ball Township. Her father was a farmer and a native of Massachusetts, who became an early settler in Sangamon County and there spent his last days.

After leaving school Charles A. Brunk worked on his father's farm, living at home until he was twenty-six years of age. He was fond of hunting and all outdoor sports, and has spent all his life on a farm. His parents had six children, of whom he is the second. Upon leaving home Mr. Brunk located on the farm where he now lives, and owns 150 acres in Section 11. He is well known in the township as a man of good principles, honest and reliable in his dealings with all, and interested in public improvements. He is in favor of modern methods of conducting agricultural operations, and carries on general farming, being much interested in dairying. He has always been a Democrat in polities and is now serving as School Trustee. He is fond of his home and family and belongs to no fraternal organizations.

December 30, 1896, Mr. Brunk was married, in Auburn, Ill., to Mary Ellen Duncan, born in Sangamon County April 21, 1870, daughter of Alexander and Catherine Duncan, the former born in Scotland and the latter in Ireland. The parents were married in Springfield, having come to Sangamon County in youth, their parents spending their entire lives in their native countries. Two sons and three daughters were born to Mr. and Mrs. Brunk, all of whom are living, namely: Catherine E., born January 6, 1899; Helen M., October 25, 1900; Elizabeth, May 18, 1902; Samuel J., July 31, 1904; Alexander, September 23, 1906. Mr. Brunk is not a member of any religious organization, but his wife belongs to the Catholic Church. Both are well known in social circles in their community and have many friends.

BRUNK, Jacob Orange (deceased). - The factories, the mills, the large industries of all kinds, the commercial and financial institutions, the bringing about the flourishing condition of things now existing in Sangamon County. Without them the present state of prosperity could not have been attained; advancement would have come but slowly; but when all is Said, it is to the agriculturists that the credit is most largely due, for without the farms that came first and the product thereof, other branches of success would not have been secured. The men who really form the bulwark are those who go to a new and strange country and there spend their lives in cultivating the soil and reclaiming it from the wilderness, and through their efforts the advance of civilization has been promoted. Jacob Orange Brunk, now deceased, was one of Sangamon County's well known agriculturists, and spent his whole life in tilling the soil in Section 11, Ball Township, where he was born November 6, 1834.

David Brunk, his father was born in Ohio, and aS a young man came to Illinois, where the remainder of his life was spent in farming. He enlisted at the outbreak of the Black Hawk War and served faithfully throughout that struggle, and after the close of the war served his county as well in time of peace. He married Maria Shoup, also a native of Ohio, and they became the parents of four children, Sarah, Ellen, Ann and Jacob O.

Jacob Orange Brunk secured his education in the common schools of his native locality, and as a youth was sent out to work on the farm during the summer months, his time for attending school coming during the winter months. On reaching manhood he secured a farm on Section 11, Ball Township, Sangamon County, and there spent a long and useful life, passing to his reward May 6, 1891. During the many years Mr. Brunk spent in farming in Sangamon County he witnessed wonderful changes. The crude implements of a half century ago were replaced with more modern and timesaving machinery, crop rotation, tiling and ditching were introduced, and numerous other improvements and scientific discoveries were made. The country flourished, and in the promotion of its progress Mr. Brunk did his full share, contributing cheerfully to each and every movement which he believed would be of benefit to his township, which he served for several terms as Supervisor. He carefully tilled his excellent farm of 370 acres, raised large crops and bred blooded live-stock, and before his death had accumulated a comfortable competency. Mr. Brunk was a faithful member of the Christian Church and his political beliefs were those of the Democratic party.

On January 13, 1867, Mr. Brunk was married, in Auburn, Ill., to Emma Jane Mason, who was born in that place, a daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth Mason, natives respectively, of Boston, Mass., and Louisville, Ky. Thomas Mason came as a mere child from Boston, and spent the remainder of his life in Sangamon County engaged in farming. There were four children in the family of Mr. and Mrs. Mason, Noah, Elizabeth, William and Emma Jane. To Mr. and Mrs. Brunk the following children were born: Thomas Madison, born April 10, 1868; Charles Allen, born April 29, 1870; Maria Elizabeth, born June 9, 1873; Samuel Walter, born April 9, 1876; Shelby M., born April 26, 1881; and William Mason, born December 13, 1884. Of these children, Thomas Madison married Rebecca J. Boyd, and they have three sons, Charles J., Asa E. and Bruce C.; Charles A. married Mary E. Duncan and they have five children, Samuel J., Alexander, Catherine E., Helen May and Elizabeth; Elizabeth, the only daughter, married Dr. J. M. Duncan (now deceased), of Pawnee, and they had one son, William Thomas; Samuel W. married Edna Thornton, but they have no children; and William Mason married Lydia M. Lawley and they have one daughter, Edith May. The sons all live in Sangamon County and are engaged in farming.

BRUNNER, Fred. - Now that farming is an occupation making large returns for money and work invested, many of those who have been brought up to agricultural employment are leaying other avenues of industrial endeavor to return to the cultivation of the soil. Experience shows that' Sangamon County land is the best of investments, and those who want to farm on either a large or small scale are buying some of this high-priced property. One who is returning to the occupation of youthful days, Fred Brunner, of Springfield, is a substantial farmer. He was born in Menard County, Ill., June 27, 1868, a son of Fred and Josephine (Aughauser) Brunner, both natives of Germany:

At a very ealy date the parents came to Menard County, Ill., where they bought 140 acres of land. This farm, which they developed and improved, was their home for forty-three years, and on it the father died, April 10, 1908, but his widow survives. They had eight children, five sons and three daughters, all of whom live in Sangamon County with the exception of one, who resides on the old homestead in Menard County. : until he was twenty-two years old. He then began farming for- himself near Ashland, Ill., and for four years made a success of the work. Being needed at home, he returned, and for two years assisted his father. His next change was made when he moved to Perry County, but a year later he came to Springfield, and in 1896 began working at the boiler factory. There for twelve years he was a faithful employee, giving efficient and satisfactory service, but although he was numbered among the most valued assistants in the foundry department, he felt the call of the soil too strong to resist, and in 1908 bought ten acres of land, to which he moved, This hag since been his home and he has made it one of the most valuable properties of its size in the township. In addition he owns city realty, consisting of houses and lots, which yield him a good income.

Mr. Brunner was married, December 26, 1895, in Perry County, Ill., to Katie Masbecker, born January 28, 1866. Her parents came to Red Bud, Ill., at an early day, but both are now deceased. They had ten children, eight daughters and two sons, seven of whom are still living. Mr. and Mrs. Brunner became the parents of one daughter, Katie, born July 11, 1903. On April 16, 1905, Mr. Brunner suffered the loss of his wife. She was a lovely lady, devoted to her home and family, and he has never recovered from the blow. Her remains are interred at Salisbury, where a tasteful monument marks her last resting place.

A hard worker all his life, Mr. Brunner has had the satisfaction of seeing his possessions multiply and his investments turn out successfully. Stanch in his support of the principles of Democracy, he has long been considered an important factor in the councils of his party, but has refused to allow his name to be used on the ticket. Nothing he has undertaken has proven too much for him, but he feels he is wise in returning to farming operations, for it is in them that he has made his money. Some men are born farmers, understanding crops and soils and knowing how to make them produce best results. Combined with his ability in this regard, is a careful training secured in youth, supplemented with years of experience as a farmer and business man, so it is no wonder he has been successful and he is ranked among the well-to-do men of Sangamon County.

BRUNS, Frederick - A number of Sangamon County residents, after years spent in other lines of endeavor, buy small tracts of land, on which they engage in truck farming, reaping large profit from their labor, owing to the richness of the soil, and the immense demand for vegetables and fruits. One of the men thus engaged is Frederick Bruns, now residing in Capital Township. He was born in northern Germany, April 26, 1845, a son of Frederick and Mary (Rollvelt) Bruns. The elder Frederick, who was a farmer, died in his native land. His wife, who was born on a sailing vessel during a voyage her mother took with her husband, who was a Sailor, came to America with a sister, in 1865, bringing the subject of this sketch with her. They made the trip on a Sailing vessel, landing in New York, and came direct to Springfield. Prior to this Frederick Bruns had worked on a sailing vessel plying between Bremen, German, and New York, and had picked up a knowledge of Engilsh, Dutch and French, in addition to that he had of his native language.

After coming to Springfield he began as a brick manufacturer and later worked in the Reisch brewery. He was a very intelligent young man, having earned his own living from the time he was fourteen years old. He had been a news agent in Hamburg and knew men better before he had attained his majority than many double his age. When the old North Shaft was sunk he was one of those who assisted in the work, but after that he went to farming, thus continuing for four years. Returning to Springfield, he once more worked at the old North Shaft, and for eighteen years was lumber boss. The following four years he conducted a saloon, then operated a teaming business for several years, but fourteen years ago he located on his present farm, although he still does a little teaming. While making brick he furnished some of the brick used in the construction of the old Leland Hotel, in the capitol building, in the present State House, and the public buildings, as well as private residences.

Mr. Bruns was married in Petersburg, May 6, 1868, to Mary Fishman, born in Germany May, 8, 1845. Like Mr. Bruns, her father, died in Germany and her mother ventured to America going to Sterling, IH., in 1871, and there she died in 1905, aged eighty-five years, having spent her declining years with a daughter. Hight children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Bruns, four of whom survive: John lives on a farm in Capital Township; Fred lives in Bradford Station, where he carries on farming; George lives in Capital Township; and Minnie, wife of Daniel Burns, lives in Springfield, where her husband is engaged in mining. There are nine grandchildren in the family, of whom the grandparents are very proud.

The religious connections of Mr. Bruns are with the Lutheran Church, of which he is a consistent member. He belongs to Lodge No. 66, I. O. O. F., and has been a member of it for forty years. All his life he has been a Democrat and is stanch in his support of the principles and candidates of his party. Mr. Bruns is, like many another countryman of his who has come to this land in his youth, a man of considerable importance in the community in which he makes his home. He possesses many of the sterling traits of character which make Germans so desirable as citizens the world over, and has never hesitated to give liberally of time and money to advance the general welfare of his township. In his work he has always been faithful and trustworthy, and takes pride in the fact that the bricks he made so many years ago testify to his skill as a workman and his honesty as a manufacturer. He takes deep pride in his family, is very fond of his children, and enjoys gathering them about him at the old home.

BRYANT, William Marion (deceased). - While some of Springfield's representative, solid business men have passed to their last reward, their memories are cherished by family and friends alike, and the good they did lives after them and will continue to do so, for noble deeds never die, sending their influence ever abroad, like the succeeding ripples from a stone cast into the water. The late William Marion Bryant, a thrifty, reliable man and a hard worker all his life, was during his last years a resident of Springfield. He was born in October, 1847, in Whitley County, Ky., a son of Abel and Eliza (Dunean) Bryant. At a very early day the family located in Kentucky, near the Tennessee line. There Abel Bryant grew to manhood, learning the blacksmith trade and following it. Later he removed to Jackson County, Ky., where he became a minister of the Baptist Church. Both he and his wife passed away in this county, having been the parents of twelve children, of whom William Marion Bryant was the eldest.

William Marion Bryant was reared as any normal farmer's boy, and learned the blacksmith trade from his father. Owing to the fact that the schools were poor, his educational advantages were limited, but he made good use of what he had. When still a lad, he enlisted in the Union army as a teamster, serving until the close of the war, when he returned home. In October, 1866, the young hero was married, at Irvine, Ky., to Miss Mary F. Johnson, daughter of William and Polly (Warner) Johnson. She was born near Irvine, Estill County, August 29, 1848. Her father was born in Madison County, Ky., in 1805, and became a farmer and distiller. He volunteered for service in the Mexican War, but before his regiment reached the front peace was declared. At the outbreak of the Civil War he enlisted in the Fourteenth Kentucky Volunteer Infantry, and gave brave service in defense of the Union. His death occurred in Kentucky when he was eighty-four years old. His wife, also a native of Madison County, passed away when sixty-three years old. They had twelve children, of whom Mrs. Bryant was the tenth. The Johnson family was of English origin, the grandfather, John Johnson, having come to America and located along Muddy Creek in Madison County, Ky. There he built a strong stone fort, for protection against the Indians, who were then hostile, and this still stands. The maternal grandfather of Mrs. Bryant, William Warner, was also numbered among the pioneers of Kentucky.

There he passed away, on October 1, 1890. During his earlier days he united with the Baptist Church and in politics he was a Democrat. His children were: George W., of Springfield, married Rose Shanley, issue - Marie and May Rose; Delaney, of Chicago, married Ida Manning; William W., of Springfield, married Mrs. Bell Rishel, issue - Claude, Dora, Mary and John William; Charles M., of Springfield, married Anna Judd, issue - Maud A., Mary E., Mabel, William, Susannah, George, Evelyn and Charles; Mary E. married Edward P. Taylor, of Pawnee, Tl., issue - Vaneta, Roy Earl, Nellie and Lester. After moving to Springfield Junction three children were born: Emma B. married David H. Wittmer, issue - William Russell, of Springfield ;

Dolly Pearl; Claude died in infancy. After Mr. Bryant's death (1890) the family moved to the southwest part of Springfield and have since resided there.

Sturdy, honest, hard-working, never shirking a duty, but giving fair treatment to everyone, Mr. Bryant readily commanded the confidence and respect of his fellow citizens, and left behind him a family of whom any man might well be proud.

BUCHANAN, Nathaniel James (deceased). - Scotland is the country that has produced some of the most trustworthy men the world has ever known. No Scotchmen ask for admittance to benevolent institutions, few of them are ever convicted of crimes, and the majority of them are studious and well informed. To come of Scotch parentage is an honor none ¢an afford to overlook, and the family bearing the name of Buchanan in Springfield can lay just claim to such distinction. Nathaniel James Buchanan, now deceased, but formerly one of the best known contracting painters of Springfield, was born in New York City, January 12, 1849, the son of Nathaniel and Jennetta (Brown) Buchanan, both natives of Scotland. The father was a painter and designer, and from him the son learned his trade.