Sangamon County, Illinois - The whole text, 1912 (part 9 of 46)

COGDAL, Thomas Jefferson, a mason contractor and builder, is a pioneer of Cantrall, Ill., where he is a prominent citizen. His birth occurred on Rock Creek, Menard County, near the Sangamon County line, July 12, 1849, and he is a son of Isaac and Sarah (Whitlow) Cogdal, the father a native of Kentucky and the mother of North Carolina. Sarah Whitlow was born in 1824 and accompanied her parents to Illinois in 1846. The family located near Richland, Sangamon County, and in 1848 she was married to Mr. Cogdal. The young couple settled on a farm on Rock Creek and Mr. Cogdal did some farming, but erected a lime kiln, prepared lime and shipped it to many parts of Illinois. This was the first kiln erected in that part of the State and furnished material to be used in the old State House, which is now used as the Court House. Mr. Cogdal also worked on this build- ing aS a mason. He was a member of one of Kentucky's best families, had a good education and had been admitted to practice at the Bar. His son well remembers when Isaac Cogdal came home with his sheep-skin certificate entitling him to practice before the Supreme Court of the United States, being thus an associate of John M. Palmer, Abraham Lincoln and others. He was associated with the latter at old Salem. Mr. Cogdal's birth occurred in 1811 and in boyhood he was brought by his father, John Cogdal, to Illinois. John Cogdal located in the southern part of Menard County in 1821 and became one of the prominent men' of central Illinois in early days, being a Baptist minister. He organized the Baptist Church at Cherry Grove, now known as Tallula Church. He had five sons and one daughter, all of whom are now deceased. Rey. John Cogdal was a native of Ireland and left his native land in order to be allowed peaceably to worship according to the dictates of his own conscience.

The career of Isaac Cogdal was one of marked ability as a lawyer, and as a contractor he was instrumental in erecting some of the notable buildings of his part of Illinois. In politics he was a strong Republican, but upon the candidacy of Horace Greeley for President, stumped the State in his behalf. Being a fluent and convincing speaker, he brought many to his way of thinking. He was often solicited to accept public office and honor but refused to do so. He held to the principles of Democracy the latter part of his life. He died July 29, 1887, and his widow survived him many years, passing away March 22, 1905. They were associated with every movement for the uplift and betterment of their community and all who knew them appreciated their sincerity and worth. Mrs. Cogdal was one of Nature's noblewomen, well known for her charitable disposition and warm heart, ready to visit the sick and afflicted and offer what comfort and aid lay within her power. Mr. Cogdal was notable as a man of broad views, liberality and charity. He was a careful student of the Bible and in religious views was a strong Universalist, being always ready to discuss the subject of religious beliefs and to set forth his reasons for espousing that faith. He was known throughout the State for his integrity and uprightness.

Thomas J. Cogdal received his eaily education in the district schools and later attended college at Whitehall, Greene County, after which he learned the trade of mason. He remained with his parents until July 3, 1873, when he was united in marriage with Linna Penny, who was born in Menard County, September 6, 1856, daughter of William and Polly Ann (Yoakum) Penny, pioneers of that county. The Penny family removed to Texas about 1860, remained there eight years and then came to Booneville, Mo., where the father died. The mother located near Salisbury, Sangamon County, where she passed away. They had four daughters and two sons: Frank and Seth H

Penny are deceased; Ellen, widow of James Loyal, lives at Pleasant Plains; Linna is Mrs, Cogdal; Louisa is the wife of Elmer Douglas, of Chatham; Maggie, wife of Victor Black, of Joplin, Mo.

After his. marriage Thomas J. Cogdal took charge of the home farm and also worked at his trade, being successful in both lines of work. He remained on the farm until 1892, and there all his children were born, namely: Palmer E., born October 10, 1874, a contractor and builder, married Mary Luck, of Tallula, Ill., where they reside; Harry Loten, born September 6, 1876, married Nellie Hensley, who was reared by John Hensley, and they have one child, Blanche; their child Ida May died in infancy; Chester Edward, born September 1, 1880, married Nora Luby, is an electrician and lives at Pleasant Plains; Alonzo Freeman, born November 15, 1885, died in infancy; LeRoy, born October 11, 1887, a farmer; Paul Cornelius, born November 3, 1891. Harry L. Cogdal is a professional embalmer and resides at Pleasant Plains, Ill.

In 1892 Mr. Cogdal left the farm and became one of the prominent citizens of Pleasant Plains, purchasing a pleasant home on West Church Street, where he has since resided. He is as skillful in his work at masonary as in his younger days, and the demand for his services is so great he has not felt as if he could retire. He has worked on some of the finest buildings in central Illinois and has also helped in the construction of culverts and bridge work. He has always been identified with the growth and development of the region where his entire life has been spent and many buildings and other work will long stand as a monument to his skill. Fraternally he is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America, Pleasant Plains Camp No. 139, also of Welcome Lodge No. 770, Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He and his wife are active members of the Methodist Church at Pleasant Plains. He has been very successful in his work and is surrounded by every comfort and by the warm regard of a wide circle of friends. He is a Republican in politics and was for many years Postmaster at Loyd, Menard County, and also served under Sheriff Brainard as Deputy Sheriff in Sangamon County.

COHEN, Samuel N. (deceased), for several years a successful grocer and business man of Springfield, Ill., was a native of Russia, born March 28, 1856, a son of Lewis W. and Annie Cohen, both natives of Russia, where they lived on a farm. The boyhood of Samuel N. Cohen was spent on his father's farm and after leaving school he was employed as a book-keeper. He finally emigrated to the United States - and about 1885 located in Springfield, where he engaged in business as a wholesale grocer. He was enterprising and industrious and was successful in his line of business. He made many friends in Springfield and at his death left considerable property.

Mr. Cohen was married, in Austria, August 10, 1879, to Miss Sarah G. Bischpefer, who was born in Austria, April 10, 1858, a daughter of Charles and Bessie Bischpefer, both also natives of Austria. One son and one daughter have been born of the union of Mr. Cohen and wife; Dora, who married Michael Yaffe, of St. Louis, where they reside, and William, born September 10, 1884, and is a book-keeper residing in Springfield. Mr. Yaffe and wife have three children, namely: Samuel N., born August 28, 1901; Harold M., March 20, 1904, and Bessie, March 5, 1907, all in St. Louis.

Mr. Cohen's death occurred February 20, 1898, and his remains were buried in Oak Ridge Cemetery. He was sincerely mourned by his family and many friends. He was a member of the Jewish Church, at Seventh and Mason Streets, Springfield, and fraternally a member of the Royal Arcanum of Springfield, being affiliated with Council No. 1105. He was a Democrat in political views but never took an active part in public affairs. Mrs. Cohen resides at 505 North Fifteenth Street, Springfield.

COHN, Mrs. Annie. - Some of the largest property holders in Springfield are women of ability having been left well-to-do by fathers or husbands. Among those whose material welfare was thus provided for is Mrs. Annie Cohn, one of the highly esteemed ladies of the city. She is the widow of the late Max Cohn, who for many years was Closely associated with the business life of the city as a merchant, Mr. Cohn was a native of Germany, who after receiving a good education in the high schools of Germany, came to this country, and for some time traveled for several dry goods firms, in this way becoming thoroughly acquainted with the needs of the public. Eventually, his travels brought him to Springfield, and he recognized the importance of this city as a distributing point for a large retail trade. He established himself here in business, and built up a large mercantile business. He had served in the army in Prussia before coming to America, and was a man who always tried to do his full duty as he saw it.

Mrs. Cohn is a most estimable lady. She and Mr. Cohn were united in marriage in Springfield. Three children were born to them: Dave, aged twenty-three years; Fannie, aged twenty years, and Sarah, aged eighteen years, all bright young people. The family belong to the Jewish church, in which they take an active part.

The death of Mr. Cohn occurred May 28, 1898, and in him the city lost one of its live, progressive business men, and his family a kind and loving husband and father. Mrs. Cohn has brought up her children in a way that is a credit to her and her husband, and is to be honored for her efforts along this line.

stock raising, realizing the immense profits to be obtaimed through the latter line of business, and recognizing the fact that the land there is specially adapted to feeding purposes. One of the men who has made a success of this, as well as kindred lines, is George Paul Colburn, general farmer and stock raiser, of Sections 23 and 24, New Berlin Township, who was born in Loami, Ill., January 2, 1874, being a son of Levi Otis Colburn, a complete history of whom is given elsewhere in this work.

The boyhood days of George Paul Colburn were spent in Loami, where he had the advantage of attending the excellent school of that place, but at the same time he was taught to make himself useful at home. When fifteen years old he began working on a farm by the month. Later he was a barber in Loami, finally operating his own shop for two years. However, he realized that his inclinations were towards farming, so selling his business, he commenced working at farming. The year following he returned to Loami to engage as clerk in a general merchandise establishment. In 1896 the call of the soil again proved too strong and once more he returned to the farm, remaining there until 1905. During all this time Mr. Colburn had saved his money, investing it wisely, so that he had accumulated a sufficient amount to rent 140 acres and start farming on his own account. Under his able management the land yielded a fine crop for the two years he rented. In 1907, Mr. Colburn rented 400 acres owned by L. H. Coleman on Sections 23 and 24, in New Berlin Township.

On April 28, 1910, occurred the marriage of Mr. Colburn and Miss Anna M. Kerr, of Loami. In politics Mr. Colburn is a stanch Republican, while fraternally he is an Odd Fellow, belonging to Lodge No. 901 of Loami, and also to the Maccabees of the same place. He belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church, while his wife is a Presbyterian.

COLBURN, Henry William. - The rural delivery mail carriers are held in the highest esteem by those whom they connect with the centers of industry. They bring to the farmer the news of national happenings and put him in touch with the largest commercial houses in the world. These carriers have to be men of responsibility, whose probity and reliability have been thoroughly tested, and one who is an excellent representative of his class, is Henry William Colburn, of Loami. He was born December 20, 1863, a son of Ebenezer and Elizabeth (Davis) town of Loami, and his first work was in the large flouring mill owned by his father, which was the first of its kind in this part of the county, drawing trade for a radius of for ment as carrier in March, 1903, since which time he has faithfully attended to his duties, and gained the confidence of those on his route. His standing was 97 per cent. in the civil service examination. He is also a Violinist of considerable ability having had several years experience as teacher of that instrument.

On September 13, 1888, Mr. Colburn was married to Anna E. Hilgenberg, also born in Loami, in August, 1868, daughter of William Hilgenberg, a native of Germany. Mrs. Colburn died in 1896, having borne her husband two daughters: Bernice M., born October 6, 1889, and Ruth M., born October 8, 1894. Miss Bernice is a graduate of the high school, and is a musical genius, having for a year been a teacher of instrumental music, and making a standing highest in the county, is now teaching at seventeen years of age. She fitted herself for teaching, standing highest among the ten taking the county examination, when only fifteen. During all the grades she had stood at the head of her class, winning a silver medal when only eleven years old. On October 29, 1899, Mr. Colburn married Mrs. Emma (Davidson) Henry, born near Palmyra, Ill., August 27, 1872, widow of Edward R. Henry. The death of Mr. Henry occurred August 4, 1898. She is a daughter of Winchester and Mary (Bates) Davidson, and was brought by her parents from Ohio, where her birth occurred, to Illinois. Mrs. Davidson died when Mrs. Colburn was only nine years of age, and the latter was reared in the home of Charles M. Poley, of Auburn. Mr. Davidson survives, making his home with Mrs. Colburn. There were three children in his family: Mrs. Colburn, Cora M. and Joseph W. Mr. and Mrs. Colburn have three children: Marjorie A., born February 18, 1901; Beulah F., born July 3, 1903, and Howard Wayne, born March 18, 1909. For seven years Mrs. Colburn was a teacher in Portland, Ore., and held a state certificate in that State. She comes of a talented family and owns some much-prized and valuable paintings executed by her grandmother. These bear verses composed by this venerated lady. Mrs. Colburn herself is an artist of ability and her productions adorn the walls of the comfortable home, owned and improved by Mr. Colburn. In addition Mrs. Colburn is _the author of many charming poems, and enjoys training her children to make the most of their attainments. The atmosphere of this home is charming, and no one comes within it without being made the better for it. A faithful Dunkard, Mrs. Colburn lives up to the teachings of her church and teaches her children to live upright, Christian lives.

. Mr. Colburn is a Republican and his party has shown its appreciation of his services by electing him to the office of Tax Collector and Township Clerk by a large majority. Frater- nally. he is a Mason, Odd Fellow, Modern Woodman of America, and he and his wife belong to the Eastern Star and Royal Neighbors. He has been a representative to the Grand Lodges of Masons and Odd Fellows and filled all the chairs in the Knights of Pythias, holding the office of Secretary for fifteen years, and has been a representative to the Grand Lodge. He took the Grand Lodge Degree of the Odd Fellows and is very prominent in all of these fraternal organizations. Mrs. Colburn has been Recorder in the Royal Neighbors for five years, her abilities being recognized in it as well as in the Eastern Star Order. It would be difficult to find any family in Sangamon County more truly representative of its best interests than this one, and which exerts a better influence in social and literary circles.

COLBURN, Levi Otis, who for seventy-five years has been identified with Sangamon County, has characterized his long life in this section by usefulness and good citizenship, and his many sterling qualities have endeared him to his fellow townspeople and acquired for him the affectionate title of "Uncle Ote." Born November 13, 1835, in Loami Township, Sangamon County, he is a son of William Colburn and a grandson of Paul and Mehitable (Ball) Colburn, natives of Hollis, Hillsboro County, N. H., where the former was born in 1761 and the latter in 1757. They were married in Massachusetts and there eleven children were born to them, but in 1809 the family removed to New Hampshire.

William Colburn was born June 8, 1798, in Sterling, Mass., and was married to Achea Phelps, who was born July 9, 1796, at He bron, N. H., and after their marriage they went to Ohio, which was at that time considered the Far West, although they did not reach that State until after many hardships had been encountered and conquered. To them there were born the following children: Clarissa, born October 27, 1816, in Pittsburg, Pa., married William S. Walker; Abigail, born April 29, 1818, at Marietta, Ohio, married Lawrence Underwood; Fanny, born January 4, 1820, at Marietta, Ohio, married David Phelps (his second marriage) ; Mehitable, born December 5, 1821, in Illinois, married David Phelps; Samuel Paul, born in Sangamon County, Ill., September 15, 1823, married Melinda Colburn, a cousin; Margaret P., born born February 22, 1827, married Julia Ensley ; Daniel W., born July 2, 1829, married Lucinda Huffmaster; William S., born February 20, 1831, in Sangamon County, Ill, was a member of the Twenty-eighth Illinois Volunteers, married Mary Ensley; Ebenezer, born April 9, 1833, married Nancy Huffmaster; Levi Otis; David P., married Turza Mengel; and John T., born November 23, 1840, married Martha Back, residing in Loami, Ill. William Colburn and his wife were honorable. God-fearing peo- ple, useful pioneers of Sangamon County, and people whose memory is held green in the hearts of many of Sangamon's leading families. He died June 10, 1869, his widow surviving him until 1878. In the early days, Mr. Colburn had been a Whig, and on the organization of the Republican party he joined the new party. He was never an office seeker, but his strict integrity and reliability were known by his fellow townsmen and on one occasion he was elected to the office of Constable. On being given his first papers to serve, he found the party in such poor circumstances that he refused to make the eviction, paid the bill out of his own pocket and resigned his position, deciding that his was too tender a heart to conscientiously fill the duties of his office.

Until he was eighteen years of age Levi O. Colburn attended the subscription and district schools of his locality, and at that time he went to work at the carpenter's trade with his brother-in-law, Lewis Cotterman, receiving $8.00 per month, his board and washing. Later he secured a position at the same business which paid him $1.50 per day, with William Hammond, for one season, but subsequently became clerk in a store and continued thus for about eighteen months. Next he purchased a set of tools and did Journeyman's work and contracting from 1858 till about 1875. Then he worked for his brother Ebenezer, who owned a saw and grist mill which was one of the best in this part of Sangamon County. On July 18, 1862, fired with patriotism, Mr. Colburn enlisted in Company F, Fifty-first Regiment, Illinois Volunteer Infantry, the regiment being formed at Chicago, Ill., and soon in the thickest of the fight, participating in some of the bloodiest and hardest-fought battles of the war, which included Stone River, Chickamauga, Resaca and others. In the battle of Chickamauga Mr. Colburn was shot through the left shoulder and was sent to the hospital, where he was offered a furlough, but this he refused. He left the hospital in Nashville, Tenn., December 15, 1868, and rejoined his regiment January 14, 1864, at Blain's Crossroads, after a trip of twenty-five days, and was with his comrades at Adairsville, Ga. The Fiftyfirst was one of the regiments which were always ready and eager for action, and it conducted itself with honor in such struggles as Peach Tree Creek, Spring Hill, Franklin and Nashville, Tenn., and took care of Hood while Sherman marched to the sea. Mr. Colburn, with the exception of the time he spent in the hospital recovering from his wound, was with his regiment in every march, skirmish and battle, and had a war record of which any man might be proud, when he was discharged at Nashville, June 16, 1865, and mustered out in Chicago, June 24th following. After serving his country with bravery and honor, Mr. Colburn returned to his home and worked at his trade.

Christine Kinney, who was born in Madison County, N. Y., March 17, 1844, daughter of William Kinney, who came to Sangamon County in 1856. Mrs. Colburn has one brother and three sisters living: George W. Kinney, of Loami; Margaret A., widow of Marcus Lindsey, residing on a farm in Loami Township; and Martha J., wife of Cyrus B. Sweet, a farmer of Loami. After his marriage Mr. Colburn located in his home in Loami and engaged in working at his chosen trade, becoming successful in his undertakings and assisting in the growth and development of his community. He has seen many changes in this part of the county during his long life here, and although he has been retired from active pursuits for the past few years, he is still to be found in the front rank of all movements that promise to be of benefit to the citizens of his section. Mrs. Colburn has always been active in church and charitable work and is affiliated with the Methodist Episcopal denomination.

To Mr. and Mrs. Colburn have been born these children: Bertha O., born April 15, 1868, living at home; William Ernest, born August 28, 1869, connected with the commission firm of Coe and Company, Springfield, and a prominent member of and earnest worker in the Young Men's Christian Association, married May 1, 1888, Mary L. Lowery; and George P., born January 2, 1874, a farmer in New Berlin Township, Sangamon County, married April 28, 1910, Annie Kerr.

COLEMAN, James W. - The Coleman family was among the earliest to settle in Sangamon County, and its representatives bore their full share in the early development of the region. James W. Coleman was born near the first log cabin erected in Ball Township, November 23, 1888, and is a son of Jonathan B. and Mary (Dodds) Coleman. Jonathan B. Coleman was a native of Nashville, Tenn., born November 16, 1811. The Dodds family was of Irish origin, and Mary, daughter of Joseph Dodds, was born in Kentucky, and they later moved to Nashville. In 1818 Joseph Dodds came to what is now Ball Township and became one of the most extensive land-owners in the county. His death occurred in 1868. His brother, Thomas Dodds, served with distinction in the Revolutionary War. The family reached Illinois Territory in March and in November of the same year Illinois was admitted as a State, so they are planning to celebrate the one hundredth anniversary of their settlement in Ball- Township, in 1918.

When he was a boy of seventeen years, Jonathan B. Coleman came to Sangamon County with his aunt, Frankie Hutton, and soon after began splitting rails, which occupation he followed a short time, then learned the trade of millwright. He worked at his trade until March, 1885, the date of his marriage to Mary Dodds, soon after which he purchased a piece of land and erected a frame building, the first of its kind in the vicinity. This house had walls of siding split from walnut trees, and the sills, joists and rafters were all made by Mr. Coleman, the building consisting of one room and in size being 24 by 28 feet. The first Cumberland Presbyterian Church erected in the county was built on land donated by Jonathan B. Coleman, in 1827, and this is yet in the possession of the organization. He and his wife lived on the farm he had purchased until late in life, then removed to the city of Springfield. They were parents of ten children, five of whom died in infancy, the others being: James W., the oldest; Joseph E., of Los Angeles, Calif.; William Harvey, died in Denver, Col., about 1894; Elizabeth A., widow of Lemuel Dyson, resides in Divernon Township; Mary Eveline, wife of A. Stark, of Bellevue, Idaho. The parents moved to Springfield in 1864, lived there two years, then purchased a farm in Ball Township, where they spent the remainder of their lives. He died in 1895, at the age of eighty-four years, and his widow survived him two years, passing away in 1897, at the age of eighty-two. In politics he was first a Whig, but upon the organization of the Republican party espoused its principles. He believed it the duty of every good citizen to cast his vote at every election, and lived up to this view. He never sought public office for himself, although he was active in the councils of his party. He was one of the most respected and honored men of his community, publicspirited and enterprising, and was always ready to do his share to promote the moral and material progress of his fellow-citizens. He and his wife were devout members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

The childhood of James W. Coleman was spent on his father's farm in Ball Township, and he attended the subscription schools of the day. However, he also had the opportunity to attend public school, and there completed his education. He remained on the home farm until about twenty-three years of age, and February 18, 1862, married Miss Margaret Bowman, a native of Wayne County, Ill., and they located on a farm in Ball Township. In 1864 he moved to Springfield, learned the trade of carpenter, and lived in that city until 1867. In the latter year they returned to the country to live, locating on a farm in Divernon Township, and in June, 1867, Mrs. Coleman died, having borne two children, both of whom are now deceased. Mr. Coleman soon afterwards moved to Petersburg, Ill., and engaged in the livery business, having twenty-seven horses.

June 27, 1869, Mr. Coleman married (second) Miss Elizabeth Mengle, who was born in Loami Township, Sangamon County, in 1843, daughter of Levi Mengle, a pioneer of Sangamon County. Mrs. Mengle came to the county with her parents in 1819. In 1869 Mr. Coleman returned to the farm and two years later moved to the vicinity of Grove City, Christian County. In 1873 he began working at the carpenter's trade in Auburn, in 1878 moved to Virden, re- turned to Auburn one year later, and in 1880 returned to the old home farm, of which he took charge. In 1881 he moved to Loami, in 1884 to Virden, and in 1890 returned to the home farm, caring for his parents until their deaths. He purchased a saw-mill, which he conducted until 1905, in September of which year he located in Chatham, where he purchased a comfortable residence and retired from active life.

Mr. Coleman and his wife have children as follows: Lina J., wife of Cyrus Scott, of Colorado Springs, Colo.; Leslie E., of Lawrenceville, Ill., and they also had a daughter, Nina May, who married Charles ©. Corry, and died, leaving one child, Howard.

Mr. Coleman has been a Republican since he was old enough to vote and cast his first presidental yote for Abraham Lincoln. He was well acquainted with both Lincoln and Douglas. He and his wife are members of the Christian Church. He has been a resident of the county most of the time for about seventy-three years and has witnessed the development of the region from a wilderness to its present prosperous condition. He has always been identified with the best interests of the community where he has lived and has won the respect and esteem of all with whom he has been associated.

COLGAN, Eugene. - Prominent in a group of representative business men of Sangamon County, Hugene Colgan, coal magnate and operator, man of affairs and capitalist, is an interesting personality for many reasons. He is a man whose native ability has led him unfalteringly into the avenues of commercial success and enabled him to climb from a humble position in the great coal industry to the attainment of a goal where he has more than realized his early ambitions. He was born at Springfield, Ill., April 5, 1857, and his parents were Edward and Mary (Mathews) Colgan. The father followed railroading and his death occurred at Springfield February 14, 1900, and his burial was in Calvary Cemetery. The mother still survives.

Eugene Colgan is a product of the public schools of his native city, being a graduate of the High School in the class of 1874. He has been identified with the coal industry throughout his entire business career, beginning as an office boy and gradually advancing through merit until he became book-keeper, office manager, and finally Secretary of the company with which he was so long connected. Subsequently he became individually interested in mining properties, and mainly through his mining interests has been developed the flourishing village of Cantrall. His two large mines are situated in Sangamon County and his financial interests are more or less confined to this section, ineluding a directorship in the New Automobile Company, of Springfield, and the possession of valuable city realty. His handsome residence is one of the elegant mansions of Springfield, its location being on West Grand Avenue, and

Mr. Colgan was married June 25, 1890, to Miss Katherine V. Foley, a daughter of Michael and Katherine Foley, old and substantial people of Springfield for many years. They married early and immediately went to housekeeping on the northwest corner of Monroe Street and Glenwood Avenue, Springfield, and continued to reside there until the close of their lives. The old home still belongs to the Foley estate. Michael Foley was a coal contractor during his entire business life. His death occurred April 5, 1889, and that of his widow on January 11, 1908. Mrs. Colgan was born, reared and educated in Springfield. She is a lady of many accomplishments, a musician of rare skill and an artist of much talent. The walls of the beautiful home are adorned with many choice productions of her brush, and their presence adds to the refining influences of this cultured, modern home. Two children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Colgan, Mary Regina and Howard Eugene. The children in marked degree inherit the admirable qualities and remarkable talents of their parents. Their talents have been fostered and encouraged and they have been given advantages far beyond the ordinary.

Mary Regina Colgan was born at Springfield May 25, 1892, and became a pupil at the Sacred Heart Convent when aged but five years. The good Sisters cherished and encouraged the remarkable talent for music that the child even then displayed, and she remained a student of the Convent until she graduated. She then entered a French convent which is under the direction of the Ladies of Loretto, of Chicago, and there took a post-graduate course, making a specialty of languages. She was also a student of music at the Chicago Musical College and studied the violin under the famous master, Hugo Hermann, of 'Berlin, Germany; piano under the great Italian artist, Ernesto Concolo; and harmony under Adolph Brunne. During her period of advanced instruction she won many flattering tributes to her ability, when her proud instructors brought her forward at studio recitals. Miss Colgan at present is pursuing her studies in the city of New York, where she is under direct instruction of notable virtuosos, including the great Hungarian master of the violin, Arnold Volpe, the conductor of Volpe's Symphony Orchestra, and the equally great piano teacher, Carl V. Lochman, of the Lochman Conservatory of Music. She is a young lady of sweet and engaging personality, and is a social favorite in her native city.

Howard Eugene Colgan, the only son of Mr. and Mrs. Colgan, was born at Springfield, January 21, 1895. He received his early education at St. Agnes Parochial School, from which he graduated as valedictorian of his class, after which he entered the Springfield High School. He has served two terms in the capacity of Page in the House of Representatives at Springfield, and through his efficiency, intelligence and

In political views Mr. Colgan is a Democrat and is an able supporter of the cause of his party. When he was elected a member of the City Council (this event taking place when he was just twenty-one years of age), he had the distinction not only of being the youngest Alderman on record, but also of being elected from a Republican ward. He has numerous fraternal connections and belongs to various organizations of a business, charitable and social nature. Among these may be included the Business Men's Association, the Chamber of Commerce, the Knights of Columbus, the Woodmen, the order of Ben Hur, the Foresters and the Loyal Americans. With his family, he belongs to the Roman Catholic Church.

COLLINS, Harry. - The beautiful town of Rivertoh offers many advantages to those seeking a home where they can secure urban advantages, combined with country conditions. -Its present prosperity is the result of the efforts of the men who were instrumental in its founding and upbuilding, and one who is deserying of more than passing mention in this connection is Harry Collins, one of its oldest residents, who lives in his comfortable home, retired from former activities. Mr. Collins is a native of the Emerald Isle, born in County Monahan, May 12, 1883. He is a son of Harry and Mary (Laughlin) Collins, natives of Ireland, where the father was a blacksmith, and where both parents lived and died. The grandfather of Mr. Collins was also a blacksmith, and the family was an old one in the locality in which he was born, His birth took place in the house which witnessed the marriage of his parents.

Harry Collins the younger grew up in Ireland, there receiving what education the parish school afforded and learning the blacksmith's trade from his father. However, he was not content with the opportunities there offered, and in 1864 sailed from Queenstown for New York City, whence he made his way to Morgan County, Il., locating fourteen miles from Jacksonville. He conducted a shop there for a year, moving then to Murrayville. After a year in that place he went to Petersburg, where he assisted in sinking a coal shaft. Following a short stay in that place he came to Springfield, but lived there only a few months, until he located permanently at Riverton. For many years he conducted a blacksmith shop in Riverton, and is one of the best known men of this trade in the county.

Mr. Collins was married in County Durham, England, August 15, 1844, to Alice Curran, born in Ireland, who passed away March 10, 1905. She was taken to England from Dublin, Ireland, by her parents. Her father was a farmer, who eventually followed his daughter to the United States, and, locating in Riverton, spent his declining years there. Eight children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Collins, but only one survives, Rose, wife of Joseph Parsons, a grocer of Riverton. Mrs. Collins was a good-hearted woman, whose kindly sympathy made her many friends. She could always be counted upon in trouble, and was the first to be sought in cases of emergency. A steadfast member of the Roman Catholic Church, she lived as a true Christian and her memory is tenderly cherished in the hearts of her husband and daughter, who deeply mourn her loss.

Mr. Collins is a Democrat but has never been willing to come before the public for political recognition, although he is personally so popular that he would doubtless run ahead of his ticket. For many years he has been a consistent member and liberal supporter of the St. James Roman Catholic Church, of Riverton. Mr. Collins has always been deeply interested in his home town and its welfare. Genial, warmhearted, generous, Mr. Collins has made friends wherever he has lived and knows men all over the county.

COLLINS, James Joseph. - The standing of any city with the traveling public is largely based upon the character of its hotels, and the quality of service rendered by them. Especially is this true in any capital city, for to it come men from all over the State, whose entertainment is in the hands of the hotel man. Springfield for years counted among its representative men of this class the elder and younger Collins, who, from 1870 until 1906, rendered yeoman service to the city in this respect. When the father retired the son took up the work until he, too, left the active arena of endeavor for a less strenuous career. James Joseph Collins, the son, was born in Springfield, February 2, 1866, being a son of Thomas and Ellen (Nugent) Collins. The former was born in County Meath, Ireland, in 1837, while his wife was born between Navan and Kells, County Meath.

When Thomas Collins was seven years old he was brought to America by his mother and two brothers, both of whom survive him. The family lived at Utica, N. Y., for some time, but later moved to Wilmington, Ill. Here young Thomas herded cattle, driving them to Chicago markets. Desiring to advance himself, he left the farm, coming to Springfield in 1863, and for some time worked for Dr. Fowler on South Second Street, following which he was in the employ of the savings bank. Still later he secured the contract for lighting the city lamps,. and from 1865 to 1870 was in the saloon business. It was in the latter year that he opened the Washington Hotel, which he made so well known for fourteen years that it was one of the favorite hostelries of the city during that period. In 1881 Mr. Collins founded the hotel which bore his name, and for sixteen years was its genial host, his son James succeeding him upon his retirement. Mrs. Collins came to this country about 1848, making the trip on a sailing vessel which consumed three months on the voyage. She and her husband met in Springfield, where they were married, February 28, 1865, and in addition to their son, James Joseph, this couple had one daughter, Mrs. Alice O'Reiley, now deceased. The death of Mr. Collins occurred September 18, 1906, his wife having passed away in 1892. In politics Mr. Collings was a Democrat, but never sought public office, preferring to give his attention to his business affairs. His religious belief made him a Catholic and he belonged to the Immaculate Conception Church of Springfield.

James Joseph Collins attended St. Mary's parochial school and Prof. Bock's school, discontinuing his studies when eighteen years old, to give his attention to helping his father in the hotel. Growing up in the business, he learned its every detail, and when he assumed full control, was an ideal host in every respect. Not only did he do everything within his power to make his guests comfortable, but he won their friendship, and his retirement in 1906 was regarded as a calamity by those who had enjoyed his good cheer in years past, although he leased his business to a very reliable and trustworthy successor, W. H. Hawks. Like his father, Mr. Collings has never taken any part in public events, but has faithfully cast his vote for the candidates of the Democratic party. He, too, is a member of the Church of the Immaculate Conception.

The marriage of Mr. Collins was celebrated at Springfield, Ill., April 29, 1895, with Elizabeth V. Colgan, daughter of Edward Colgan. During his career as a hotel keeper and since, Mr. Collins has demonstrated the fact that he is one of the solid, reliable men of the community, and one who can always be depended upon to support any measure which in his judgment will work out to the betterment of the majority.

COLLINS, Joseph Henry, was born in Missouri, and is a son of John C. and Eliza (Van Buskirk) Collins, natives of Kentucky, of English and Dutch ancestry. John ©. Collins, soon after his marriage, which occurred in Kentucky, moved to Missouri. He was one of the first half-dozen settlers in the locality where he entered land and made his home the remainder of his life. It is said that the first deed recorded in the county was made to John C. Collins. For eighteen years he was Judge of the County Court, and for a number of years practiced law as an attorney.

Joseph Henry Collins received his early education in the public schools, attending a country school near his home where he grew up to manhood. Before he was of age he entered La Grange College, Missouri, and after his graduation, engaged in newspaper work for nearly two years. He soon decided that teaching offered a field for usefulness more to his liking, and became an instructor in a college.

Mr. Collins came to Springfield in 1880, and, with the exception of two years, has been connected with the city public schools ever since, first as Principal of a grammar school for three years, then Principal of the High School five years, and for twenty-one years Superintendent of City Schools. He is well-known throughout the State, his courtesy and agreeable personality having made him many friends. He has been President of the Illinois State Teachers' Association, a Vice-President of the National Education Association, a State Director of this organization four years, and Illinois State Manager at the meetings of the National Education Association held at Washington, D. C.; Los Angeles, Cal.; Charleston, S. C., and Detroit, Mich. For over twenty years he has been a Director of The Springfield Homestead Association, a building and loan organization of which he was Secretary during the two years he was out of school work.

In 1875 Mr. Collins was married, in Missouri, to Julia C. Hay, a native of that State. His second marriage occurred in 1909, when Mrs. Mabel Patterson, of Michigan, became his wife.

Mr. Collins has never been active in politics, being independent in the matter of voting. He has been a member of the Baptist Church from boyhood, and his fraternal connections are with the Masons, in which order he is a Past Commander of Elwood Commandery, Knights Templar, and is also a Scottish Rite Mason.

CONKLING, Clinton Levering, a prominent and successful lawyer of Springfield, Il.. is a member of the well known firm of Conkling & Irwin, who have an extensive practice, being employed largely in the interests of corporations, municipalities, trustees and estates. Mr. Conkling holds directorships in several financial institutions and has held various local public offices. He is a native of Springfield, born October 16, 1848, son of James Cook and Mercie Ann Riggs (Levering) Conkling, the former born in New York City, October 13, 1816, and the latter born in Georgetown, D. C., November 21, 1817. James C. Conkling graduated from Princeton College in 1885, studied law in Morristown, N. J., about three years and was there admitted to the Bar. In 1888 he came to Springfield, Ill., and there his death occurred, March 1, 1899. He served as Mayor of Springfield in 1845, and as Member of the House of Representatives of the Seventeenth and Twenty-fifth General Assemblies of the State of Illinois (in 1851 and 1867), was a Presidential Elector on the Republican ticket in 1860 and 1864, and a member of the Bloomington Republican Convention in 1856, with Mr. Lincoln. He was a life-long friend of Mr. Lincoln and the latter addressed to him the famous "Lincoln-Conkling Letter" in 1863. He was one of the original members of the Lincoln Monument

Association. He served as State Agent for the State of Illinois at Washington during the Civil War, and was special aid to Governor Yates in 1861, in organizing State troops. Mr. Conkling served four years as Postmaster at Springfield, being appointed in 1890. He was a Trustee of Blackburn University, at Carlinville, also a Trustee of the Illinois State University, at Urbana. He was for many years an Elder in the Second Presbyterian Church in Springfield. He was one of the most prominent lawyers of his time in the State and was well known for his public spirit and patriotism.

The emigrant ancestor of the Conkling family came from Nottinghamshire, England, to Salem, Mass., about 1688 and removed thence to Southold, L. I., in 1650. From the latter place his descendants emigrated to every part of the United States, and the branch from which the family here described was descended removed to Baskingridge, N. J., about 1690. Many of the name participated in the Revolutionary and Civil Wars.

Clinton L. Conkling spent his youth in Springfield, where he attended private schools until 1860. He was never a very robust child, so did not take part in the most strenus sports of boyhood, but was fond of hunting and fishing and was a rather close student. He entered Yale College in 1860 and graduated four years later, then studied law in his father's office and was licensed to practice in Illinois Courts in 1866. He was afterward admitted to practice in the United States Courts, including the Supreme Court. After leaving college he spent a short time in a clerical position with Bowen Brothers, then large wholesale drygoods merchants in Chicago, then returned to Springfield and began his study of law. He began practice in partnership with his father, under the firm name of J. C. and C. L. Conkling. About 1874 the younger Mr. Conkling became interested in a manufacturing enterprise, but three years later resumed his practice. In 1888 Mr. Conkling formed a partnership with Joseph M. Grout, which continued until the death of the latter, in 1902. In October of the latter year Mr. Conkling became partner with Edward F. Irwin, and the firm assumed its present name.

Mr. Conkling is a lifelong resident of Springfield and has been identified with many public movements. He is a Union Republican and cast his first vote for Abraham Lincoln, but in local affairs votes for the man he considers best fitted to fill office, regardless of political convictions. He served nine years aS a member of the Board of Supervisors of Sangamon County and was Corporation Counsel for the City of Springfield from 1898 until 1902, inclusive. He is a member of the Chamber of Commerce, Illini Country Club, Springfield Golf Club, of Illinois State Bar Association, Illinois State Historical Society and of the Lincoln Guard of Honor. He was the Secretary at the organization and for some time thereafter, of the National Lincoln Monument Association and had under his management a large part of the popular contributions to the erection of a monument to Lincoln at Springfield. He was one of the witnesses to certify to the identity of President Lincoln's remains when they were for the last time exposed to view in September, 1901, and were then laid away for all time beneath the reconstructed Lincoln Monument.

Mr. Conkling is a Director of Ridgely National Bank and also holds a Directorship in the Sangamon Loan & Trust Company and the Workingmen's Savings & Homestead Association. He holds the office of Vice President and Director of the Lincoln Library. Fraternally he is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, having belonged to the order about forty years, and being affiliated with Lodge No. 465, of Springfield. He has for thirty-five years been a member of the Blue Lodge of Masons and for thirty years a Knight Templar, and is affiliated with St. Paul's Lodge A. F. & A. M. and Elwood Commandery. Mr. Conkling is a member of the Second Presbyterian Church, to which he has belonged since 1864, and has been a Ruling Elder since 1870. He was Chairman of the Building Committee for the erection of the present church edifice, which was recently completed. He has served as Delegate at various times to various judieatories of the Presbyterian Church in various parts of the United States. The recruiting officers would not accept Mr. Conkling as a volunteer in 1861, but he served during the summer of 1863 as a member of the Home Guard, in Baltimore, Md. He was the first person to inform Abraham Lincoln of his nomination for the office of President in 1860, which fact is mentioned in the transactions of the Illinois State Historical Society, in the issue of May, 1909.

Mr. Conkling was married, at Springfield, March 12, 1867, to Miss Georgiana Barrell, who was born in Brooklyn, N. Y., November 29, 1846, and three children were born of this union: Georgiana, born October 28, 1872, now Mrs. Waldo S. Reed, of Englewood, N. J.; Katherine Levering, born December 1, 1874, now Mrs. John S. McCormick, of Pittsburg, Pa.; Annie Douglas, born May 18, 1877, died at the age of eighteen months.

Mr. Conkling is an eloquent, concise speaker, and has won a high place in his profession. He has always taken keen interest in all movements for the public welfare, and, like his father before him, has favored the growth of industrial activities in the community. He has been called upon to fill many positions of honor and trust and has given freely of his time and strength to further benevolent causes in which he has been interested. He owns valuable business property in the city and has been very successful in his financial enterprises.

CONKLING, William H., Assistant Postmaster of Springfield, is a son of William J. Conkling, whose public and private life has made him a well-known resident of Sangamon County.

William J. Conkling was born in New York City in 1826, a son of Stephen and Sarah (Belknap) Conkling, who moved to Mount Vernon, Ohio, in 1831; moving to Leroy, Ill., in 1839, he worked his way through and obtained his college education at Oberlin College, Oberlin, Ohio. He came to Springfield, Ill., in 1853, and entered the office of his brother, James C. Conkling, with whom he studied law, being admitted to the Bar October 14, 1854. William J. Conkling, the father of our subject, passed away in 1903, leaving three children: William H. Conkling, Ella G. Buckley and Grace H. Leaverton, all of Springfield.

William H. Conkling was married in 1884 to Miss Sadie J. Thompson, of Jacksonville, Ill., who died in 1905, leaving two children, Grace H. and Aimee J. In 1907 Mr. Conkling married Miss Margaret McManus, daughter of Patrick and Ann McManus.

Mr. Conkling was born and reared in Springfield and took an active part in many public affairs. In 1893 he was one of the citizens who came forward with a proposition to secure to the City of Springfield a home in which to transact its municipal affairs, the results of which accomplished the erection of the present City Hall. He was selected by Mayor Wheeler in 1897 as City Comptroller serving four years, when Mayor Wheeler was appointed as Postmaster, and Mr. Conkling's appointment as Assistant Postmaster demonstrates that his services were valuable as a public official. Mr. Conkling was prominently connected with the erection of many municipal improvements in addition to the City Hall, and was an active worker in the Republican ranks. He was a pupil of the public schools, graduating from the Springfield High School in the class of 1878, directly after which he entered the employ of Christian Wolf, then a prominent and successful hatter and furrier, where he remained ten years, then he and C. J. Giblin purchased the stock of Mr. Wolf and two years thereafter formed a partnership with C. D. Roberts, which arrangement continued until his appointment as City Comptroller in 1897.

Mr. Conkling is a thirty-second degree mason, a member of Elwood Cammandery K. T., a member of Navarre Lodge No. 142, Knights of -Pythias, also holds membership in the Modern Woodmen, Court of Honor, Elks and Sangamo Club, and is one of the Directors of the Springfield Commercial Association. The Second Presbyterian Church holds his membership.

Mr. Conkling was the founder of Hawthorne . Place, that beautiful addition and the first modern one ever platted in the City of Springfield. The record of this young man demonstrates that many of the sons of great men follow in the footsteps of their fathers, and make their lives successful, as well as leave monuments to the memory of their zeal and enterprise.

CONNELLY, Terrence. - Ireland has sent to this country some of her best sons and these men make excellent citizens and never lack for friends. Some of the most popular men of Springfield are those who owe their birth to the Emerald Isle, and one of these is Terrence

1848, a son of William and Margaret (McShirey ) Connelly, both of Ireland. The parents never emigrated, rounding out their lives in Ireland, where they were farming people. They had three sons and two daughters, but Terrence is the only survivor.

Terrence Connelly was educated in Ireland and during his boyhood worked on the farm. As a young man he sailed from Queenstown to Quebec, whence he went, a short time later to Montreal, and there spent several years. He then came to Chicago, but two years later came on to Springfield, arriving in 1865. Immediately he found employment with Hunter & MeNeill, cattle dealers, continuing with them for three years. He then became coachman for former Governor Matteson, following which he traveled through the country selling dry-goods. After four years of this he began farming, but still later engaged in work at the St. Nicholas Hotel. For some time he was in the Springfield woolen mills, and following this was an employe at the State House for two years. Fourteen years ago, he came to live in his present house on the edge of Springfield, surrounded by five acres of land, and is now engaged in gardening.

In August, 1875, Mr. Connelly was married in Springfield to Miss Anna Conlon, born in County Mayo, Ireland, where her parents lived and died, although her brother Peter is now a resident of Springfield. Six children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Connelly: William enlisted during the Spanish-American War and served in the Philippines; John resides in Champaign County, Ill., where he farms; Louise is in the employ of the John Bressmer Company; Mamie married Arthur Sherdon, of Champaign, and the rest are deceased. Mr. Connelly is a Democrat. He is a devout Roman Catholic, belonging to St. Patrick's parish. Fraternally he belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America and has been connected with Liberty Camp for twenty years. His land is very valuable and he takes great satisfaction in it and the magnificent vegetables he" raises there. After so many years of changes, me takes pride and satisfaction in his permanent

CONNOLLY, Major James A. - Few names are more familiar in the great State of Illinois and to Sangamon County in particular, than that of Major James A. Connolly, distinguished alike in the profession of law, in military achieve: ments, in political life, and in public service. He was born at Newark, New Jersey, March 8, 1842, a son of William and Margaret (McGuire) Connolly. Although he came of an agricultural family and environment, James A. Connolly very early gave indications that his life career would reach far beyond his father's field and ambitions. As a boy, he was apt, even when a student in the common schools of Morrow County, Ohio. His ability was still more forcibly shown after he entered Selby Academy, at Chesterville, and later when he was a law student at Mt. Gilead, Ohio. Upon his admission to the Ohio bar in 1859, he began practice with his former preceptor, Judge Dunn, of Mt. Gilead, and continued with him for one year, when in 1860, he established an office of his own at Charleston, Ill.

In the meantime the Civil War had broken out, and in 1862, the young attorney put aside the rich promise of the future in his profession, to become a member of the One Hundred and Twenty-third Illinois Volunteer Infantry, assisting in raising a company of which he was elected Captain. On the organization of the regiment, he was chosen Major. With his command, he joined the Army of.the Cumberland, and was active in all the campaign that closed with the battle of Chattanooga. He was then assigned to duty as Division Inspector of the Fourteenth Army Corps. Major Connolly was afterward connected with Sherman's army on its memorable march to the sea, and accompanied the victorious forces to that great and impressive showing of loyalty and patriotism, the Grand Review at Washington City. On many fields, he had shown his valor as an officer, winning recognition and was awarded the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel.

After his honorable retirement from military life, Major Connolly returned to Charleston, and there resumed his professional duties continuing the private practice of law until March, 1876, when he was appointed United States District Attorney for the Southern District of Tllinois, continuing an incumbent of that office until June, 1885, when he retired on account of a change in the administration. When the Republican party regained ascendency, he was reappointed to the office, by the late President Harrison, July 1, 1889, and continued to serve through four more years. In the meanwhile, Major Connolly had become a very important factor in State politics, having been twice elected to the State Legislature, there serving on the Judiciary, Railway and Library committees. In 1886, he was the candidate of his party for Congress and in the contest carried both his own and Morgan Counties, reducing the normal Democratic majority of 4,000 to 900. In 1888, he refused a second nomination for Congress, but, in 1894, and again in 1896, he was re-nominated, in each case being elected. In May, 1884, he was appointed Solicitor of the Treasury, by President Arthur, an appointment confirmed by the United States Senate, but he de- clined the honor. In 1888, he was a candidate before the Republican State Convention for Governor, and received a flattering vote. In 1886, he entered into a law-partnership with Thomas C. Mather, which continued until the death of the latter. His present partner is Carey E. Barnes.

Major Connolly was married at Gambier, Ohio, February 9, 1863, to Mary Dunn, daughter of Jacob Dunn, and sister of his former preceptor and law partner, Judge Dunn. Major and Mrs. Connolly attend the services at the First Presbyterian Church, Springfield. He is fraternally affiliated with the Masons, the Elks, the Loyal Legion and belongs to the Grand Army of the Republic, having been Department Commander of the latter for 1910-11.

CONREN, John, who has been a resident of Riverton, Ill., for the past thirty-five years, has spent most of his life in farming, but has retired from active pursuits. He is well-known and highly regarded in the community as a public-spirited and useful citizen and has many friends. He is a native of County Wexford, Ireland, born in 1835, son of Richard and Ellen (Doyle) Conren, also natives of that county. The parents spent their entire lives in Ireland, where the father was established in business as a cattle buyer and carried on farming. There were two sons and five daughters born to them, of whom but three children survive, John and two daughters,

John Conren spent his boyhood on a farm and received his education in his native county. He continued farm work until 1870, when he came to America, landing at New York, whence he went to Litchfield County, Conn., and worked on a farm one year. He heard of the wider opportunities offered in the west and came to Springfield, Ill., where he secured work at the city water works. A year later he was employed in the work of excavating for the State Capitol, and when that work was completed, engaged in farming in Sangamon County.

A few years since Mr. Conren retired and now owns property in the village of Riverton. He was reared in the Roman Catholic faith and is a devout member of that church. Politically he is a Democrat, but has never taken an active part in public affairs. He is a man of good character and unquestioned integrity and much interested in the welfare of the community

CONROY, Martin, of Springfield, Ill., was born in County Mayo, Ireland, March 11, 1844, son of Martin and Catherine (Magrar) Conroy, the former born in County Mayo, in 1822, and the latter in County Galway, in 1825. The father was a farmer by occupation and both he and his wife died many years ago in County Mayo. Martin Conroy Jr., was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools of his native country. He was very fond of cricket and football as a boy and liked outdoor life. After leaving school he worked at herding sheep and cattle. At the age of ten years he went to Liverpool, England, and for twenty years worked in the coal mines in the vicinity. In 1869 he came to America and located in Springfield, where he 'resumed the occupation of miner.

Mr. Conroy was married, in Virden, Il., November 25, 1872, to Miss Catherine Diegnan, who was born in County Roscommon, Ireland, in 1856, daughter of Patrick and Catherine Diegnan, both natives of County Roscommon, who spent their lives on a farm and died in Ireland. Children as follows were born to Mr. Conroy and his wife: Martin J., born June 20, 1879; Patrick, born in 1881; William, in 1886, and Edward in 1889. Martin J. is an iron moulder, Hdward, a book-keeper, and the other two sons follow mining. All reside in Springfield. Mr. Conroy is a man of quiet tastes and very fond of his home and children. He is a member of the Roman Catholic Church and in politics is a Republican. He joined the Loyal Americans and the Catholic Order of Foresters in 1895. He has always been very hard-working, industrious and thrifty, and is much respected in his community. He owns his home at 1125 Reservoir Street.

CONVERSE, Albert L., a resident of the city of Springfield, Ill., since 1846, has for many years been prominently identified with the civil and official life of his community, and is recognized as one of the leading business men of central Illinois. He has been prominent in political affairs in his part of the State and, as the choice of the Democratic party, served during the Thirty-fourth and Thirty-fifth General Assemblies of Illinois, during which time he acted on the Revenue, Appropriations, Agriculture, Sanitary, and various other important Committees. Mr. Converse has for nearly forty years been greatly interested in agriculture and stock-raising, and has exhibited very practical knowledge and experience in his operations along these lines. He is interested in every movement calculated to benefit his community and has been one of the leading figures in the development of some of the leading industries in his part of the State. He has the best interests of his city, county and State ever at heart, and at the same time has been able to attain personal financial success to a very gratifying degree. The birth of Mr. Converse took place at Plainesville, Ohio, June 29, 1842, and he is a son of Henry and Niana J. (Priest) Converse, natives of New Hampshire and Vermont, who were married in New York, soon afterward moved to Alabama and thence to Ohio, where the father became a farmer and oil-manufacturer. In 1846 he removed with his family to Springfield and there purchased the land now occupied by Albert L. Converse and his brother.

Henry Converse became a successful farmer and stock-raiser of Sangamon County and took a prominent part in public affairs. He served nine years as a member of the Board of Supervisors and was active in educational and religious work in Springfield, his work and influence in this connection being of lasting benefit to the city. He was a man of high intelligence and true worth and won many lasting friendships among the best class of citizens, in both public and private life. He was for many years identified with the Baptist Church. His death occurred in Springfield, January 25, 1889, his wife having passed away in 1882. They had celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniversary nine years before his death. Henry Converse left two sons to mourn his loss: Albert L. and William O., both residents of Springfield.

Albert L. Converse received a good education in the public schools of Springfield and applied himself to his studies with interest and pleasure. He read medicine with Dr. Charles Ryan, of Springfield, and afterwards attended lectures at the Northwestern University at Evanston, Ill., graduating from the medical department with the Class of 1864. He spent ten years in the successful practice of his profession in Macon and Sangamon Counties, but on account of failing health abandoned his profession and, having considerable land, took up the pursuit of agriculture and stock raising. Among the large enterprises which he helped organize and conduct is the Springfield Paving Brick Company, which does a large business and makes frequent shipments of its output throughout Illinois and into adjacent States. During this time he has served many years as President of this company and has helped promote many other local enterprises. He has been active in local politics and served three years as Supervisor, for two years of which he was Chairman of the County Board. Since the Democratic party adopted the platform upon which they nominated William J. Bryan as their candidate for the Presidency, Mr. Converse has abandoned their ranks and has affiliated himself with the Republican party, in whose interests he has been an indefatigable and useful worker, expressing his views on public occasions with great force. He is an eloquent and interesting speaker and is very practical in his ideas and suggestions. He has traveled extensively throughout the United States and has twice visited Europe. He is an active member of the Baptist Church and fraternally is a Master Mason. He has spent most of his life in his present home at 1346 North Highth Street.

Mr. Converse was married in Springfield, September 6, 1864, to Miss Henrietta, daughter of Aaron Thompson, of Springfield, and six children have blessed this union, namely: Florence, born in 1865, died at the age of sixteen years; Anais, born in 1867, widow of Dr. Frank B. Smith, of Springfield; Olive, died at the age of nineteen months; Henry A., an Attorney, born in 1875; Albert E., a Dentist, born in 1881; Henrietta, born in 1890. The children attended the fiftieth wedding anniversaries of both their paternal and maternal grandparents.

COOK, John F., who for twenty-six years was identified with the contracting and painting business in Pawnee, Ill., and who is now living retired from business activities, has been connected for a long period with the official life of Sangamon County. Mr. Cook was born in Grayson County, Ky., September 23, 1847, a son of James J. and Polly (Ashley) Cook. His paternal grandfather was born in Mercer County, Ky., where he spent his entire life attaining the atvanced age of ninety-four years, while his maternal grandfather, a native of Grayson County, Ky. died in Missouri at the age of ninety-six years, James J. Cook was born in Mercer County, Ky., and was married in Litchfield, Ky., to Polly Ashley, who was born in Grayson County, that State. He spent his entire active life in agricultural pursuits, and is now living retired, having reached the age of eighty-nine years, while his wife died in 1866. They were the parents of the following children: John F., Squire, Evan, William, Robert, Daniel J., Solomon, Nancy J., Sarah E., and Amanda E., all born in Grayson County, and all now living except William, Solomon, Sarah A. and Nancy Jane.

John F. Cook received his education in the public schools of Grayson County, Ky., and remained at home until he had attained the age of twenty-five years, at which time he left the home farm and began to learn the painting trade. He came to- Sangamon County, and located in business in Pawnee, where he has since - resided, gradually working into contracting and making his business successful. He was always an energetic and enterprising business man, and his many sterling qualities gained him many friends. This, when considered with the fact that he always lived up to the letter of every contract made by him, assured his business success, and he succeeded in accumulating a competency that permitted him to retire from active business life. On August 1, 1864, Mr. Cook enlisted at Litchfield, Ky., in Company G, Thirtyfifth Regiment Kentucky Mounted Infantry, under Captain Meredith, but in October of the same year was sent home on account of sickness, and never rejoined his regiment. He is a member of the Anti-Horse-Thief Association. In politics he has always been a Republican, with Prohibition leanings, as he is a strict temperance man. He has been a member of the Village Board, Game Warden, Constable and Deputy Sheriff. With his family he attends the Methodist Episcopal Church.

On July 12, 1883, one mile east of Pawnee, Ill., Mr. Cook was married, by the Rev. William Wheeler, to Mary Nicholls, who was born October 13, 1858, in Clinton County, Ill., daughter of William H. Nicholls, a wagon maker, born June 24, 1830, in Clinton County, and Maria (Hdsell) Nicholls, born in Illinois and died at Dawson, March 16, 1864. Mr. Nicholls was married four times, his first marriage, which occurred June 3, 1855, to Maria Edsell, resulting in the birth of four children; Ida A., Mary, Alice B. and William. Mr. Nicholls was married (second) September 7, 1865, at Dawson, IIL, to Nancy Miller, and there were the following children born to this union: Onetta and Otto H., who are deceased; Olive B., Oma J., and Annie E. Mrs. Nicholls died in Sangamon County, Ill., December 23, 1878, and Mr. Nicholls was married (third) December 20, 1888, to Mrs. Sarah (Brooks) Winchester, at Niantic, Ill., she dying in a hospital at Springfield, April 25, 1897, aged thirty-nine years. On June 3, 1903, Mr. Nicholls was married (fourth) at Virden, Ill., to Ina Hildreth, and she now lives at Virden, where he died June 23, 1907, being buried in the Divernon Cemetery.

Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Cook, namely: Lena, born August 25, 1878, married Charles Tilley, of Buffalo, Ill, and has three boys - Ronald, Paul and Ray; Maud, born February 6, 1886, of Pawnee, Ill., married Walter Saunders, and has two children, Frank and Stanley; Mabel, born January 23, 1890, and Flossie, born December 28, 1893, at home.

Mrs. Cook's paternal grandfather was born January 1, 1800, and died in Clinton County, Ill., May 24, 1856, after a life spent in agricultural pursuits. Grandfather Edsell died in Jersey County, Ill., where he had lived for many years. There were nine children in the family of Mrs. Cook's paternal grandparents: John, born September 23, 1823, died in August, 1903; Catherine, born September 11, 1825, living in Pawnee; Sarah, born February 8, 1827, died July 21, 1827; Elizabeth, born September 19, 1828, died September 5, 1833; William, born June 24, 1830, died June 30, 1903; Alfred J., born September 9, 1832, now living in East St. Louis, Ill.; Isaac T., born December 5, 1835, died May 11, 1889; Finley, born July 22, 1842, died February 12, 1862, being killed in a runaway accident; and Lucinda C., born July 12, 1840, now living in Pawnee, Ill.

COOLEY, Charles H, (deceased). - The late Charles H. Cooley was descended from Virginia ancestors, who lived and died in the Old Dominion. His parents were Joseph and Sarah (Ragsdale) Cooley and he was born in also operated a mill on the north fork of the Holstein River, near Lynchburg. There were three sons and three daughters in the family, of whom Marion Cooley, of Scotland County, Mo., is the only survivor.

Charles H. Cooley was educated in public schools near his boyhood home and grew up as his father's assistant on the farm and in the mill. He came to Sangamon County, Ill., in 1844, but soon went to Nauvoo, Ill., where he farmed one year.» Then he returned to Sangamon County, bought land and farmed in Clear Lake Township for several years, until he sold his holdings there in order to remove to Buffalo Hart Grove, where he continued farming some years, removing thence to a farm near Spaulding, Ill., which he purchased and which he worked till he retired from active life. He then located at Dawson, where he died in 1894 and where his widow and members of his family are living at this time. He was a Democrat, a man of decided public spirit and for twelve years honorably filled the office of School Director. He was identified with the Methodist Episcopal Church, as are also Mrs. Cooley and members of her household.

Mrs. Cooley was Miss Nancy E. McDaniel. She was born near Barclay, Sangamon County, a daughter of William M. McDaniel, a native of Bracken County, Ky. Her mother was of Illinois nativity, born on the site of Barclay. Mr. McDaniel farmed and raised stock in Sangamon County until his death, which occurred March 29, 1854. Mrs. McDaniel 'survived till 1899, dying at her home in Riverton. Philip Smith, Mrs. Cooley's grandfather, was a soldier in the Black Hawk War. She had a brother and two sisters. Her brother has passed away; her sister Lillie is the wife of William Randolph, who lives near Spaulding, Ull.; her sister Kate married Albert Libka and lives near Riverton, Sangamon County.

The home and other property of Mrs. Cooley at Dawson rank with the good property of the town. She bore her husband eight children, six of whom are living. The eldest of these is Virginia, a teacher and a member of her household. Her sons Charles H. and Louis C. live in Dawson. Lillie M., a daughter living with her mother, is a teacher in the Dawson public school. Her daughter Ethel M., is the wife of James Rutherford, of Rochester, Sangamon County. Marion G. Cooley lives in Montana.

COONS, James (deceased). - The hardships endured by the early farmers of Illinois cannot be appreciated by the present generation, who are used to the conveniences of today. Yet if it had not been for the efforts of these pioneers the mighty Commonwealth, of which we are all 'So proud, would still be a wilderness, with wild animals prowling over the vast expanse of prairie. The Coons family is one which was prominently associated with the development of this locality, and one of them who was for many years a successful farmer of Clear Lake Township was the late James Coons. He was born in 1833, a son of Martin and Margaret (Grimsby) Coons, natives of Kentucky. Martin Coons moved to Morgan County, Ill., from Kentucky in 1829, and, locating on a farm on Big Indian Creek, five miles north of Jacksonville, made it his home for a quarter of a century. After the death of his wife he went with his family to Sangamon County, in 1850, and settled on a farm near New Berlin, where his death occurred. There were seven children in his family, and of them two now survive: George E. Coons, now of New Berlin, who is ninety-four years of age, and Benjamin, of Kansas, eighty-four years old.

James Coons was educated in the little log school north of Jacksonville, Morgan County, where he sat on slab benches and did without any of the modern appliances of a schoolroom. At the same time, he was brought up to hard work by his father, who taught him to be an efficient farmer. When the family moved to Sangamon County, James came with them, and after the father's death, with two of his brothers worked on the homestead for a time, then bought a farm in Clear Lake Township, which continued to be his home until his death, which occurred in 1888.

Mr. Coons was married March 3, 1850, in Morgan County, to Sarah E. Sturgis, born seven miles north of Jacksonville, Morgan County, November 2, 1832. Her father was born in North Carolina, on Christmas Day, in 1798, while her mother was born in Zanesville, Ohio, February 8, 1799. Mr. Sturgis came from North Carolina to Morgan County, Ill., in 1823, locating on a farm, which continued to be his home for two years. He then entered government land to the amount of 163 acres seven miles north of Jacksonville, but in 1856 sold this and bought another farm, dying there in May, 1874. His widow came to Sangamon County, locating near New Berlin, where she died in 1881. The grandfather of Mrs. Coons, Joseph Vance, was a soldied in the Revolutionary War. Mr. and Mrs. Sturgis had seven children, two of whom survive: James Sturgis and Mrs. Coons. This brother lives with Mrs. Coons and her sons, on a forty-acre tract in Clear Lake Township, which she owns. She and her husband had five sons and five daughters, six of whom are now living: John E., a farmer and carpenter, who lives with his mother; George B., also lives at home; Margaret, wife of Andrew Reynolds, of Benton, Mo.; Luna R., and Charles D., farmers of Rochester Township; Elizabeth, wife of Richard Smith, of Springfield. There are twenty-one living grandchildren in the family.

Mr. Coons was a consistent member of the Baptist Church and died firm in its faith. He had been a liberal contributor and was missed from its congregation. The Republican candidates received his vote and he earnestly supported the principles of his party. He was quiet and unostentatious and was devoted to his family. He worked hard all his life and was well satisfied with his surroundings. His memory is kept green in the hearts of his widow and children, who knew and appreciated his many virtues.

COOPER, David D. (deceased) - What the earlier farmers of Sangamon County accomplished during the years they struggled with the many disadvantages always present in an undeveloped country, no mere words will describe. That they succeeded, probably far beyond their wildest hopes, existing conditions prove, but not enough gratitude is shown for their work, their privations and their plans, laid with such care that those who have succeeded them, are able to carry them out without trouble. One of these men, whose names are remembered with respect and veneration, is the late David D. Cooper, formerly a farmer of Section 29, Williams Township. He was born near Sherman, Sangamon County, August 10, 1829, being a son of Meredith Cooper, of Tennessee, where he married.

The parents came from Tennessee to Illinois, making the trip on horse back. They carried a feather bed, and slept on it in the open air. Reaching Sangamon County, they located on land near Sherman, and there they developed a farm, brought up their nine children, and lived out their useful lives. During the Black Hawk War, the father defended his brood and community by enlisting, and was one of the honest, sturdy old pioneers of this county.

struggling for every advantage, David D. Cooper developed a fine character. While attending the primitive schools of his day he did a man's work on the homestead, rendering his father loyal and efficient service. Over fifty years ago he bought thirty acres of land in Section 29, Williams Township, where his demise took place March 8, 1900. His widow still resides on the farm his loving care provided for her, surrounded by the comforts of life.

On May 17, 1855, Mr. Cooper was married in Williams Township, to Juliette Withrow, born in Macoupin County, March 22, 1840. Her father was born in Kentucky, where he married, and with his wife came to Illinois at an early day, settling five miles south of Springfield, and later moved to Williams Township where they died. There were three sons and three daughters in the family, Mrs. Cooper being the only survivor. Five sons and three daughters were born to Mr. and Mrs. Cooper, six of whom survive: Mrs. Susie C. Wright, widow of Walter Wright, resides in Riverton; James A. resides in Roodhouse, Ill.; Mary D., wife of N. Huffman, resides near Dawson; Eugene resides near Sherman; Augustus resides at home with his mother; Myrtle E., wife of William Gladden, resides in Hayworth, Ill.

Mr. Cooper belonged to the Methodist Church, and took much comfort in his religious associations. His life was ordered according to the creed of his church and he lived and died a true Christian. His widow belongs to the same religious denomination. In politics he was a Democrat and faithfully supported the candidates of his party. Steadfast of purpose, earnest in his work, Mr. Cooper rounded out a useful life and left behind him the memory of many kindly deeds, numerous acts of charity and a general uprightness of living that had

) COOPER, Robert V. (deceased). - The Cooper family is one which bore a prominent part in the settlement and development of Sangamon County, its representatives having come here when this part of the State could not boast of its present value; when a wilderness prevailed, occupied principally by roving Indians and wild animals. Here they entered land and laid the foundations of a home. The mighty forests were felled, the prairies planted, roads developed from Indian trails, and eventually Sangamon County was made over into one of the most progressive portions of the mighty Commonwealth we are all proud to own as our State. The late Robert V. Cooper, although not himself a pioneer, for he was born in the county, July 10, 1884, participated in much of the early settlement work, and suffered with the others all the privations and dangers of those days. He made his home on Section 32, Williams Township for many years prior to his death, and was one of the best known men of the county. Mr. Cooper was a son of Meredith and Polly (Witcher) Cooper, both of Tennessee.

The parents came to Illinois at a very early day, at a time when land could be obtained for $1.25 per acre, settling on a farm which lay along the Sangamon River. Several years later they came to the farm near the one now owned by the widow of Robert V. Cooper, and both died there. They were parents of twelve children, but only one, Ambrose Cooper, of Missouri, survives. During the Black Hawk War Meredith Cooper served as a soldier, for Indian atrocities were very real in those days and the men of Sangamon, although not in a direct line of most of the trouble, felt very uneasy for the safety of their families.

Robert V. Cooper was educated in Williams Township and worked on the farm for his father, spending his entire life in this township, with the exception of two years when he lived in Kansas. While in that State he was a Justice of the Peace and was conscripted into the Southern Army, but was fortunate enough to escape service. Returning to Sangamon County, he resumed farming on the homestead, where his death occurred, January 13, 1886.

Mr. Cooper was married in Riverton, Ill., February 9, 1864, to Lavina H. Garner, born in Washington County, Ind., July 20, 1844, a daughter of A. S. Garner, who was born in Tennessee, but his wife was a native of Indiana. Mr. Garner moved from Tennessee to Virginia, where he married, and in 1850 went to Indiana, remaining in Madison County for a short time. Later he came to Sangamon County and settled in Williams Township, two miles from Williamsville, where he operated a farm for two years, then moved to a farm near Mr, Cooper's. Later he bought a farm near Sherman and lived on it until his death in 1876. His wife had died in 1854, having borne him four children, two of whom survive. Mr. and Mrs. Cooper had no issue. Mrs. Cooper is proud of the fact that her great-grandfather John Smith, was a soldier in the Revolutionary War, being a body guard of General Washineton. Her grandfather, Elijah Smith, was born on a battle field, when families were gathered on the field, and was named by General Washington. Mrs. Cooper rode on the first engine run over the Chicago & Alton Railroad, from Williamsville to Springfield. As she remembers much of the early history of this locality, her conversation is very entertaining, Abraham Lincoln was a familiar figure to her, as was Stephen A. Douglas, and other great men of the period. Further than this, Mrs. Cooper had the pleasure of being in Mr. Lincoln's office after his election to the presidency for the first time, and shook hands with him, proffering her congratulations, which he appreciated and accepted in his characteristically genial manner. The farm of forty acres owned by Mrs. Cooper on Section 32, Williams Township, is numbered among the most valuable in the township.

Both Mr. and Mrs. Cooper early joined the Methodist Church, and Mr. Cooper died, as he had lived, firm in its faith, a true Christian gentleman, In politics Mr. Cooper was a Demoerat. He was a man of kindly disposition, whose many charities were distributed in secret, for he was retiring by nature, and preferred to do good without publishing it to the world. The family with all of its connections, is well known here, as are the connections of Mrs. Cooper, and all are highly esteemed.

COPPLE, Jacob. - One of the men who through long years of hard work and careful saving accumulated property sufficient to keep him in comfort the rest of his life, is Jacob Copple, residing at No. 2106 Hast Cook Street, Springfield, who was born in Indiana, March 12, 1852, a son of Jacob and Elizabeth Copple, both natives of Indiana. The parents came to Illinois at a very early date, spent a short time in Sangamon County, then removed to a farm in Christian County. They rented land in Christian County and lived there until the mother died. The father died one year later. Three of the several children of the family survive: Jacob; Matthew, a farmer of Mechanicsburg Township; and Bessie Warcutt, of Galveston, Tex.

Jacob Copple received a common school education and after leaving school engaged in farming. He farmed in Christian County for some years and then began farming in Mechanicsburg Township, thus continuing until his retirement to Springfield in 1897. He then purchased his present residence, where he lives in well-earned retirement. ;

By her first marriage, Mrs. Copple had ten children, those living being: James, of Leavenworth, Kan.; Louis, of Oklahoma; John, of Springfield; Luther, living in the west; Solomon, of Joplin, Mo. Mr. and Mrs. Copple had one child now deceased. Mrs. Copple has twenty-four grandchildren,

Mr. Copple owns his home and is a man of means. He belongs to the Christian Church, as does his wife. 'The Republican party expresses his political views and he gives its eandidates his support.

CORDES, Michel. - Germany has contributed much towards the citizenship of the United States, and emigrants from the Fatherland have invariably turned out to be thrifty, honest and energetic, ready to do their share in the advancement of the interests of their adopted country and, by making the best of the opportunities offered them, winning success in whatever line of endeavor they have adopted. Michel Cordes, a self-made man, who is engaged in agricultural pursuits on a farm of 247 acres on Section 7, Gardner Township, is a German- American citizen, born January 26, 1851, in Horsten, a son of Schwur and Anke Mary (Helmmearch) Cordes.

The father of Michel Cordes was a weaver by trade and also had a small farm in his native land, where he and his wife died about 1893. They had five children, as follows: Mary, the wife of Heinrich Gebhards; Annie, the wife of Albert Behrends; Johanna, the wife of Dietrich Harms, a farmer of Gardner Township; Ameta, the wife of Gerhard Ghirlen, a farmer in Curran Township; and Michel.

Michel Cordes received his education in the schools of Germany, attending from the time he was six until he was fourteen years old. After leaving school he started to learn the trade of weaver, but not liking this trade, went to work on his father's farm, on which he continued until he was twenty years old. In 1871, hearing of the opportunities offered to the ambitious young man in America, he decided to visit the New World, intending to return to Germany in two years if he was not satisfied with conditions as he found them. He left home in August, 1871, and after a voyage of twelve days landed at New York, whence he came to Tllinois, locating at Eureka, Woodford County, but two weeks later went to work for a German farmer, Herman Harms. In the spring of 1872 he worked for various parties, earning good pay, and in 1873 secured employment on the farm of Isaac Reding, near Tallula, Ill., with whom he continued until the winter of 1876. In the spring of 1875 Mr. Cordes had been married to Miss Gerhardina Husmann, who was born in Etzel, Germany, where her parents had both died. Mrs. Cordes' only sister, Johanna, married Reppe Heinrichs, remained in Germany, and had two sons, one of whom is living with her in the Fatherland and the other, Henry Heinrichs, is a farmer in Bethel Township, Mc- Donough County, Ill.

After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Cordes rented a farm near Salisbury, in Salisbury Township, and continued thereon until 1877, when they removed to the farm of a Mr. Pierce in the same township, but in 1879 again moved, renting the farm of John Watts, a tract of 160 acres located in Cartwright Township, in company with two other parties. In 1880 Mr. Cordes decided to rent on his own account and subsequently located on the 200-acre farm of John N. Watts, and for thirteen years continued to reside there, being very successful in his operations. Having saved some money, Mr. Cordes then purchased 247 acres of land on Section 7, Gardner Township, paying $75 per acre, and there he has continued to reside to the present time. Coming to this country practically penniless, Mr. Cordes has worked his way to the front ranks of the substantial men of his community by perseverance, good management and honest dealing, and his farm is now one of the best in his section of the country, the brush having been cleared, the land cultivated so that it yields fine crops, and the farm stocked with fine horses, cattle and hogs, of the latter the Duroc-Jersey being Mr. Cordes' favorite breed. During the forty years that he has resided in Sangamon County he has established a record for uprightness of character, and is esteemed and respected by all who have the pleasure of his acquaintance. A stanch Democrat in political affiliation, he has often been asked to hold public office, but with the exception of a long term spent as a member of the District School Board and a term as School Trustee, he has declined public preferment. He and Mrs. Cordes are consistent members of the Lutheran Church, of which they are liberal supporters. In addition to his farming operations Mr. Cordes is a stockholder in both the Farmingdale and Richland Elevator Companies, which have been very successful in handling the farmers' produce. .

Mr. and Mrs. Cordes have been the parents of five children, as follows: Schwur Albert, born November 15, 1876, now assisting his father in the cultivation of the home farm; Herman H., born November 14, 1879, a farmer in Cartwright Township, married Anna Wilms, has a daughter, Louise; Anna M., born September 19, 1882, married Dietrich W. Evers, a farmer near Greenview, Menard County; Johanna C., born October 11, 1886, living at home; and Margaretta, Gerhardine, born May 15, 1892, died September 25, 1909.

man, and yet so thoroughly have modern methods been installed in Sangamon County that progressive agriculturists there do not find the duties too onerous, assisted as they are by sons or efficient hired men. Such a property is owned by Charles David Correll of Section 18, Illiopolis Township. He was born in the village of Illiopolis, September 30, 1878, being a son of David and Sarah Elizabeth (Peden) Correll, the former born in Mechanicsburg Township, September 8, 1835, and the latter in Zanesville, O., October 19, 1856. The father was a farmer and stockraiser all his life. The grandfather on the paternal side 'of the house moved to Sangamon County at an early date, and helped in its development, being numbered among the pioneers of those times.

Mr. Correll, of this record, received an excellent education, attending ward schools at Springfield and Decatur, and graduated from Whipple Academy at Jacksonville, from a twoyears' course at Ilinois College of Jacksonville, and graduated in law from the legal department of the University of Michigan.

On January 27, 1904, he married Violet Jane Rule, born January 23, 1887, in Pioneer, Iowa, daughter of Thomas O. and Barbara (Dann) Rule. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Correll are: Charles Rule, born November 11, 1904; Barbara Isabelle, born December 20, 1906, and an infant born August 5, 1911. Since his marriage Mr. Correll has lived on his farm. It contains 700 acres and he devotes it to raising stock for the market. The old tavern, or half-way house, used to stand near the spot where stands his present residence, some 3800 yards back from the road, on a high knoll, which overlooks the surrounding country. The house is modern and well adapted for comfortable living.

Since March, 1910, Mr. Correll has been President of Illiopolis Bank. Fifteen years ago he joined Company I, Fifth Regiment, Illinois National Guard, and served three years. He belonged to the Illiopolis Lodge No. 521, A. F. '& A. M., since 1899, and eleven years ago connected himself with Kedron Chapter. In 1909 he joined Lodge of Perfection; in 1910, Rose St. C., and Princes of Jerusalem. While not tak-

_ ing any active part in politics Mr. Correll generally votes the Democratic ticket. He is a member of the Methodist Church. Leading a quiet, eventless life, Mr. Correll is contented with his lot and well he may be, for he stands very high in his community, and has a fine farm and a delightful family, while his surroundings are as pleasant as any man could ask.