St. Clair County, Illinois - Biographical sketches, 1881 (part 9 of 13)

Thomas Brady, third husband of Mrs. La Compt, was a native of Pennsylvania, and came to Cahokia in a very early day. He was a brave and daring man, as many of his exploits in history attest. He was among the first to offer his services in the war of the Revolution. As early as 1777 he raised a small company of men from the villages of Cahokia and Prairie du Pont, marched through the wilderness to the fort at St. Joseph, Michigan, then called the Cow Pens, and captured the fort with the loss of but one man. After the organization of St. Clair county by Gov. St. Clair, in 1790, known as a partof the Northwest Territory, he was appointed the first sheriff of the county. He died in Cahokia several years afterward, lamented by many warm friends.

Another pioneer and patriot was Charles Gratiot, who established an Indian trading store in Cahokia as early as 1774. He carried on an extensive trade with the Indians, so that hij business operations embraced several of the present western States, but his grand depot for supplies was located at Cahokia for many years. AU though educated in England, at the commencement of the Revolution he embarked his all in the cause. He lived to see his country free, when he retired to private life. In 1781 he married a M'^ Cheauteau, a sister of Pierre Cheauteau, of St. Louis. Members of this family were the founders of St. Louis, which occurred in 1764. Mr. Gratiot lived to a good old age, and died in St. Louis iji 1817.

Capt. McCarty was one of the old pioneers of the village. He headed a company of the French in the Revolution, and did good service at the conquest of Fort Sackville and Vincennes, and performed his duty to the satisfaction of his commanders. History does not give any account of when he died.

One of the most prominent settlers of Cahokia was Nicholas Jarrot. He probably did more to build up and perpetuate the village than any of his day. He was a native of France, but the troubles of that country in 1790 induced him to emigrate to this country. He reached Cahokia in 1794, and prepared to make it his residence for life. His means were limited when he came to this country, but through his indomitable energy and perseverance he soon acquired a large fortune. At an early day he was elected major in a battalion of the St. Clair militia, and was known until his death as Major Jarrot. His first operations were as a partial Indian trader ; he also kept a retail store of goods suitable to the market of the village. He afterwards became possessed of a large landed estate, wrought out by his own energy and foresight ; also, at one time, owned the greater portion of the Wiggin's Ferry Landing, opposite St. Louis. His life was an eventful one, the history of which would fill a large volume. Major Jarrot brought up a large and respectable family, one of whom is still living in the village of Cahokia - Mrs. Ortance Brackett, at the advanced age of eightythree years. Mrs. Brackett is a native of the village, and the oldest person in Cahokia. She is very active, notwithstanding her extreme age. Two of her sons are living at the old homestead with her, Nicholas McCracken and James Brackett. Another son, George Brackett, attorney-at-Jaw, resides in St. Louis, and a daughter, wife of Jno. 0. Butler, lives in East St. Louis.

Major Jarrot died in Cahokia in 1823, lamented by a large circle of friends. His remains repose in the old cemetary, just under the shadow of the ancient church building.

Among other pioneers are Jean Francais Perry, who settled in the village in 1792 ; John de Moulin, in 1790 ; John Hays, in 1793 ; John Hay, same date ; Julien Dubuque, founder of Dubuque, Iowa, in 1783 ; William Arundel, the same date ; and William Morrison, in 1800. Isaac Darnielle was the first resident lawyer, and came to Cahokia in 1794. He was the second profess ed lawyer that emigrated to Illinois, John Rice Jones being the first. Jones also practiced law in Cahokia, but resided at Kaskaskia.

Dr. Lyle was probably the first regular physician who practiced medicine in the village. He came to Cahokia in an early day, and was considered a very good physician, but was unpopular on account of his exceeding ill-nature.

Gov. Reynolds first tried the mettle of his legal bow and spear in Cahokia in 1814. How well he succeeded every citizen of Illinois is abundantly able to answer.

In 1809 Samuel D. Davidson, a lawyer, and native of Kentucky, settled in the village. His talent did not run in the direction of the law, and he abandoned the practice and taught school. He was the first teacher, and taught in one of the rooms of Maj. Jarrot's house, and was paid $400 a year. This salary was paid from the private purse of Maj. Jarrot. Davidson entered the military service in 1812. Some time after the war he left the village, and drifted to parts unknown.

Among other historic events of this ancient village was the assassination of the Napoleonic Indian chief, Pontiac. He was stabbed by a Peoria Indian in the streets of Cahokia in the year 1765, and was buried within the limits of the village. The spot where tradition says he was buried is still pointed out by the oldest citizens. The place indicated is about sixty feet south-east of the lots owned and occupied by Dr. Illinski, upon which is situated the oldest house in the village. His body was subsequently buried in St. Louis by St. Auge, then commandant of that place, who had been a warm friend of the Indian chieftain.

The following inventory gives some interesting information relative to the articles in use among the early French at Cahokia and the prices which they commanded. It will be seen that tliey are possessed of many of the conveniences, and even the luxuries, of life ; while the sums obtained for the goods, at a forced sale, show that there must have been considerable ready money in the community.

Inventory of the goods and chattels of J. J. R. Hanson, sold in pursuance of an order of the court of committees of Cah6s, made on the 20th of November, 1778, for the sum of 2,232 livres in silver.

due to the minor children Panerasse, payable in May next, and to satisfy a judgment in favor of Jean B. De Corte, payable in March next. Sale took place at Cahds, November 23, 1778, three days after the order was given :

The above is a translation of one of the 1,300 French salebills which were turned over to W. St. Clair, and are now on file in the court house. The Hanson sale was, however a forced one and may therefore, not be a proper criterion of prices. We shall quote now, prices obtained at an administrator's sale held in February, 1791.

Louison, Etienne and Louie Pensoneau, three brothers, emigrated from Canada, and settled in Cahokia in 1798. They all married in the village, and stood high in the estimation of their neighbors. Louis conducted the first ferry established between Cahokia and St. Louis. The landing was situated west of the village, and a little below where Cahokia creek formerly emptied into the river. It nr.ust be remembered that at that time, Cahokia was the metropolis aud that St. Louis was but a young and sparsely settled village. The oldest person now living in Cahokia, Mrs. Brackett, informed us that she can remember well when the village of Cahokia contained twenty-four stores, and upwards of three thousand inhabitants, and that the people of St. Louis made it their principal tradmg place. Verily, time works wonders in this wodd of ours; only little more than half a century has passed, and St Louis is the sixth city in the United States, while Cahokia contains not more than three hundred inhabitants.

The first mill constructed in Cahokia was built by Nicholas Boismei.ue about 177L It was a horse grist mill, of the primitive style, and located on the village lot now owned by Dr. Illinski, just south of his dwelling. Some years after the construction of the mill, a man by the name of Peyrot was engaged in building a fence close by the mill. In sinking a post hole he struck a bucket that had been buried there. On examining it, what was his surprise to find it contained $800 in Spanish gold sovereigns. There were none to claim it, neither could the oldest inhabitant throw any light upon the circumstance of the hidden treasure.

There are three houses yet standing in the village, that are built after the old, primitive French style : Dr. Illinski's dwelling, the church, and the old court-house. These are the oldest houses in the village, and probably the oldest in the west. They are constructed from cedar and walnut logs, placed upright with a space of a few inches between, which is filled in with a kind of cement or mortar. The inside is plastered with cement, and the outside is weather-boarded. The dwelling-houses are supplied with a verandah, extending around the entire building. It is said among the villagers that Dr. Illinski's house is the oldest, and was built about the year 1700. The church is not far from the above in antiquity. It has a small cupola and bell. The earthquake of 1811 so rocked the church that the bell gave forth several distinct taps.

The. old court-house was built in 1795, or thereabouts in that year Bandolph County was formed by taking off the southern portion of St. Clair, and at which time Cahokia became the county seat. In 1814, the county seat was removed to Belleville. Many years ago, the village extended more than half a mile west of the court-house ; but at this time, the ' old court," as it is called, occu. pies the extreme north-western part of the village proper. For several years past, it has been utilized for a saloon.

The first marriage on record in Cahokia, was performed by L. Gibault, missionary, on the 10th of June, 1790. The contracting parties were Jean Baptiste Chartran, and Marie Eocheleau, widow of Michael Girardin.

The first brick house built in the Mississippi Valley, except one at Kaskaskia, was constructed by Nicholas Jarrot, and situated in the eastern limits of Cahokia village. We are informed that it was commenced prior to 1800, and completed in 1805. It is a two-story building with attic, and 38 by 50 feet on the ground. It rests on timbers of black walnut with about two feet face, imbedded several feet under ground. These timbers rest on beds of charcoal, which are separated from the earth beneath by a layer of sand and gravel. The partition walls of the house are sixteen inches thick, and composed t)f solid brick masonry. The outer walls are eighteen inches in thickness, and are also solid brick. The hall of this mansion is sixteen feet in width, and all of the belongings are of the quaint, aristocratic style of long ago. It has withstood the elements of three-quarters of a century. The earthquake of 1811, only shook down two of the chimneys, and produced two small seams in the rear wall. In the flood of 1844, water stood ten feet in depth around the house ; ingress to the building could only be efiected through the upper portion of the high door by means of a canoe. It has withstood four other floods besides the one mentioned, but none were so disastrous to the country and village as this.

It may sound strange, but this house was completed sometime before a brick building was constructed in St. Louis. It is to-day a good house, and looks as though it might last for centuries;

The first school-house in the village was built in 1841, and was situated on the site of the present brick school-house, near the center of the village. It was destroyed by fire some years ago, and the present house erected in its place.

There are two schools in the village, the white and the colored. The former is a fine brick house, and cost about $5000. But one teacher is employed, and there is an attendance of from 25 to 30 pupils. The latter is a small frame, and cost $800. The average .attendance is about 12 pupils.

Cemeteries. - Cahokia has two cemeteries, but only one of them is now used for burial purposes, as the old one has been full these many years. Indeed, it is said that the bodies were buried one above another, until the villagers were obliged to abandon it for lack of depth. With the exception of the one at Kaskaskia, it is the oldest in the West. It is situated around and in the rear of the old church, after the custom of the Catholics. The new cemetery is situated about half a mile east of the village, and contains nearly two acres ; or, in French parlance, is one arpent wide, and two in length. It has been occupied about thirty-seven years.

The ground was donated to the Cahokians for burial purposes, by Colonel Vital Jarrot, son of Nicholas Jarrot. Mr. Nicholas Mc- Cracken has in his possession a head-stone that he ploughed to the surface, in his field a little south of the Jarrot homestead, that bore the date of 1770. It was cut from a soft lime-stone, and was in size about twenty inches in length, by eight in width, and two in thickness. The following is a fac-simile of the inscription :

The present business of Cahokia is almost a dead letter. That which was once the metropolis of the West, now contains scarcely three hundred inhabit ints, about one-fourth of whom are negroes. Not even a post-office exists in the village. The following is the extent of the business : -

Land Entries. - The following is a list of the first land entered in the Precinct : - Adelaid Perry, March 22, 1815, entered 85.15 acres in sec. 19. Josiah Blakely entered April 26th 1815, the south half of sec. 3, containing 320 acres. On the 27th of April, 1815 Nicholas Jairrot entered 140.38 acres on sec. 3. TKe heirs of J. B-' Jourdin and F. Langloise entered May 1st, 1815, 36.81 acres on sec. 18 ; December 23d, 1816, George Blair entered the north-east quarter of see. 15, containing 160 acres. Philip Creamer, Nov. 15, 1817, entered 83.91 acres in sec. 24.

* Many other interesting facts, pertaining to the early history of Cahokia' may be found in the Pioneer and Civil chapters and history of the Catholic church in the former pages of this volume.

pass through a portion of its territory. The Illinois and St. Louis, and the Cairo Short Line on the north and east, and the East St. Louis and East Carondelet, and the Narrow Gauge on the west.

Centeeville Station

This is a small way station, situated on the Cairo Short Line railroad, and about midway between the northern and southern boundaries of Cahokia Precinct. It contains but six houses, all farm houses except two, one of which is a small country store kept by Louis Plouder, who is also justice of the peace, and county commissioner. It has a post-office with Andrew Touchette as postmaster. The French Catholic church stands about a quarter of a mile north of the station. It was built in 1863, and cost about $4000. The first officiating priest was Father Douterligne.

Pittsburg is situated on the blufF, in the extreme eastern portion of the precinct, in sec. 3. It was established in 1836, and at one time had a population of upwards of 200 inhabitants, mostly coal miners. Coal was obtained here by drifting into the blufij where in places it cropped out to the surface. As many as seven drifts have been in operation at one time, and from twenty to thirty cars of coal mined in one day ; but for several years the mines have been exhausted and abandoned. At this writing the place contains about seventy persons, all miners, who are now employed in adjacent mines.

Baptiste Touchette

Was born in St. Clair county, November 15th, 1843, near what was ca,lled Big Lake by Americans, the Grand Mare by the more poetic French, and which, since the introduction of railroads and drainage of many lakes, has taken the name of Centerville Station. His father, Andrew Touchette, was born in Cahokia in the year 1812. His mother, whose maiden name was Sophia Dashney, was born at Portage, Missouri, The father was in his time a great hunter and trapper, and a,lso followed farming. Baptiste Touchette was married to Judith Besson, March 1st, 1861, by Squire Edward Ploudre. He followed shipping produce from East St. Louis to Chicago and -New Orleans, during the years 1864, '65 and '66, then farmed until 1874, when he opened a stock of merchandize adapted to rural wants at Centerville Station, which business he followed for three years, whereupon he resumed farming, in which he is still engaged. In 1878 he was chosen a Justice of the Peace by his fellow-citizens, a position he yet holds. In politics he is a democrat, and cast his first vote for Gen. George B. McClellan for President. He IS the father of five children: Ursula, Baptiste, Jr., CamiUe, Judith and Mary. In his father's family were five brothers, chiefly engaged in agricultural pursuits in the American Bottom. Squire Touchette is progressive in spirit, determined in the prosecution of his aims, and possessed of excellent qualities of head and heart. Was raised a Catholic in faith. He is devoted to his family, and labors faithfully in their interest. Few men are more respected in the commupity in which he lives, and the judgment of few is oftener appealed to by neighbors than that of Baptiste Touchette.

Perhaps there are no families having representatives yet living in Cahokia, deserving more honorable historical mention than the ancestors of the subject of this sketch. Among the early settlers they were foremost in every enterprise, and contributed no little to making the Cahokia of old a center of trade, a village of attraction. Kobert McCracken, the father, came here from Kaskaskia, where he had been a distiller, in 1826 Here he followed the peaceful avocation of a farmer, and married Ortance Jarrot, who was born in Cahokia May 29th, 1799, and now at the age of more than fourscore years can read large print and sew without spectacles. Her portrait adorns the head of this page. Her family history is largely interwoven with that of the village in which she lives, and may be found in its appropriate place. Her mother, in turn, Julia Jarrot, wife of Nicholas Jarrot, a prominent character in early days, died in 1875, having attained the remarkable age of ninetyseven years. Nicholas McCracken, named for his grandfather, attended school in company with Judge William H. Snyder, in Belleville, during the years 1837 and 1838. Thence he sought employment in Edwardsville, Madison county, and found it at the hands of E. M. West, for whom he clerked in a store. In 1834 he changed his location by going to what was then known as Illinoistown, which was, at the time, the name of the post-office as well, (now East St. Louis,) where he engaged his services to Jarrot &

Carr, who kept a stock of merchandise near the landing of the Wiggins' ferry company. Changed places again shortly thereafter, entering the employ of David F. Brigham, with whom he remained until the year 1844, the year remarkable for the big flood, which completely destroyed the store by washing it away. He thereupon returned to his old home in Cahokia, where he followed farming until the breaking out of the gold fever in 1850, when, in company with seven others, he made his way to the western slopes, which they reached in ninety-four days' travel after leaving the Missouri river. After three years' life in the gold fields he returned via the Nicaragua route to New York city. What is remarkable, is the fact, that although there were eight hundred persons aboard the vessel which carried them, and absolutely hundreds were losing their lives by other vessels, not a life was lost en route Returning to Cahokia he followed farming until 1857, when he opened a mercantile establishment, which business he followed until 1876, when he retired from active pursuits, although his nature scarce permits him to live in idleness. He pays more or less attention to the lumber interests of the firm, McCracken & Butler. He has one full and two half sisters and three half brothers, his mother having married Mr. Brackett. Politically he afiiliates with the democratic party. Is a member of the Roman Catholic Church.

Was born February 3d, 1817, in Wollhynia, apart of Poland that was annexed to Russia during the tripartite theft made by Russia, Austria and Prussia, iu 1833. He received a classical education in the Gymnasium at Krzensieuiec, where he remained five years. At this institution the study of the Latin, Greek, French, Russian, German and Polish languages, mathematics, and the natural sciences were obligatory. The school was maintained on the high pressure principle - studies were crowded too rapidly one after the other - youths were expected to accomplisli the work of adults. Those who possessed strong constitutions stood the ordeal, whilst others failed. The doctor stood well in his classes. Prompted by patriotism, at the age of fourteen he joined the insurgent army as a lancer. After the capture of Warsaw the command to which he was attached retreated to Galicia, a part of Austria, for refuge, where they remained abr)ut a year, when in 1834 a peremptory order was issued exiling all insurgents either to Russia or France. After a start was made, each one selecting one or the other of tlieso countries to be his future abode - the order was changed, Anu'rica being substituted for France. At the time of the issuance of the order the subject of this sketch was confined in a prison at Olmutz, where he lay for six weeks without knowing why or wheref ire. lie believes that a mistake had been made, tlie authorities intending the incarceration and punishment of an older brother Anthony Illinski, who was a leader amongst the insurgent soldiers, and as such was thought to merit greater punishment than sim|ilytol)e exiled. UpDii being liberated he chose Am 'rica as his future home, and reached Castle Garden, New York city, March 28tli, 1834. His brother, for whom he was made to sufi^er a brief iml)risoument, made good his escape, and true to his military instincts joined the French in the Algerian war, then served as a Turk, joining the regular army of that people. The love of Poland, as a dear dream yet lingered with him, hence he obtained leave of absence from his command and joined Kossuth in his vain endeavor to redeem his fiiir land. He was every inch a soldiei-; and life presented no charm for him, so that no s )oner were Kossuth's hopes crushed, and his armies disbanded, than he joined the Turks again, bscoming a general in their armies. In the memorable charge of Balaklava he received a wound from which he soon after died in 18-36. The doctor, once in America, cast about him for something to do, and after a year's wanderings brought up in Hivana, the capital city of the (^ueen of the Antilles, where he obtained employment in the government hospital. This employment engendered in him a taste for the practice of medicine and surgery, and eagerly did he pursue its study. From Havana he came to St. Louis, INIissouri, where he eutered the newly opaned medical school known as IMcDj.vell's College, and graduated in the first class sent forth from that famed institution. It is believed that but one other member of the class (T)r. Frazier) now survives. Immediately after gra luation the doctor c imaienced the practice of his profession in the then thriving village of Cahokia, where he has since remained with the exception of a three years' sojourn in Calif )rnia, from 1849 to 18o2. Here he combined with the practice of his profession merchan lizing and keeping a public house. At Call nkia his practice lias always been extensive, reaching over a wide seop3 of cmmtry, embracing that part of St. Clair cjunty known as the American Bottom. His professional skill has received full recognition, and his services have been much sought. He was married to Mrs. Jane Butler in August, 1843, by whom he had two children - daughters. She died in 18-52 He was married to Virginia Black in August 19th, 1870, by whom he has three children living. Politically the doctor is a democrat. He voted fjr every democratic }u-esidential candidate since the time of Harrison. He is much interested in bee culture, in which business he excels. Active, energetic, possessed of a strong constitution and great will power, he hesitates in no undertaking calculated to benefit himself or his fellows. Social, generous-hearted, scholarly in his attainments, his society is courted by men of letters, aud enjoyed by all.

Louis Ploudre

At present a member of the boanl of county commissioners, was born ia Cahokia, Sept^ 2'2d, 1846. His ancestry are of Canadian French extraction, and were among the early settlers of St. Clair county. His father, Calvert Ploudre, was bora in the St. Francis district of the Three Rivers, Canada, came to this county about 1840, where he died April 7th, 1880, at the age of sixty-seven years. His father's brothers, Edward and Peter, both came with him here. One of them is now living in St. Paul, Minn., whilst the other is among the dead. His mother, whose maiden name was Catharine Paridy, was a daughter of Julia Paridy, nee Lepance, who was born in Cahokia in 1783, and died there Sept. 25th, 1809, at the age of (ighty-six years. When her people came to Cahokia we have no means of knowing. The Paridys, of whom there are numerous representatives in this county, came about the year 1812, ju,=t preceding the breaking out of the war. They too were Canadians. His parents were married during the year 1839. His mother died, October 11th, 1866. He received a common school education, such as was afforded thirty years ago in the rural districts. Althougli meagre he has made the best possible use of it, having read liberally and built well upon the foundation laid in the old school-room. On the twenty-fifth of April, 1865, he was united in the bonds of wedlock, to Elmira Geurard, the Rev. Father Azbell officiating. By this union there have been six children born, five of whom are living. His wife was born in St Joseph, Mo. Her parents were likewise Canadian French, her father having lived in Montreal, where he followed carpentering and building for a livelihood. Their children are named respectively, Mary Elmira, Clementine Jo.sephine, Louis Theodore, Esther Elizabeth, Loviua Curtis and Emily Lothe. Louis Ploudre followed farming, but his talents have led his fellow-citizens to repeatedly place him in office. Was chcseu road supervisor in 1868-9 and 70; constable in 1869, which office he held but eight months, upon being elected as Justice of the Peace which position he has held continuously since. He has been chosen as deputy Assessor for nine years in succession. Was elected in 1879 as County Commissioner. Owing to some irregularities in the count his competitor was at first declared elected by a majority of fourteen, and served f jr several months until a recount established Louis' rights to the position by a majority of forty votes, this too when his politics were at variance to those of a majority throughout the county. He has served his neighbors, too, as township Trustee for a period of six years. In each and every office he has held, he has sjiared no pains to do the work set before him to the best of his ability. His eff()rts in behalf of a thorough drainage of the American Bottom which he believes ought, and will be, the garden spot of the great city of St. Louis, have been cordially seconded, and he entertains strimg hopes of aecomplifhiug, by the co-uperatiun of cntcr])rising men, his aim in this direction. As, & commissioner he has proved himself, prudent, painstaking and competent. Politically he is an active republican, and has served as a member of the republican ciiitral county committee for a period of ei'dit years. His fir^t presidential vote was cast for the suhliir General, U. S. Grant. As a business man he has been active and persevering. He engaged in merchandizing in 1879, followed it for a year, and sold out to re-engage in the same calling again in 1878. At present he is the proprietor of the store and gardens at Centerville station. He adheres to the Catholic faith. Esteemed of all his neighbor,-, tliort)Ughly alive to the best interests of his county, his is a future bright with promise.

Lebanon Precint

S indicated on the map, the main body of the precinct of Lebanon is nearly square, being five miles and six miles long, with a strip one and onehalf miles in width, from the east line, west to Silver creek, and contains in all about thirty-four sections. It occupies portions of four 'congressional townships, the greater part lying in Town 2 N., Ranges 6 and 7 W. It is situated in the northeastern part of the county; to the north Madison county, to the east Sun^merfield precinct, to the south Mascoutah and Shiloh, and to the west O'Fallon. Silver creek enters near the northeastern corner of the precinct, and meandering in a southerly direction it passes through the whole territory. This stream and its tributaries drain the lands and furnish an abundant supply of water fcr other purposes. The general surface is a rolling prairie. The bottom lands along Silver creek, in many places, are very low, and in the rainy seasons it overflows and thus prevents the cultivation of this rich soil. In the bottoms and along the various water courses there are narrow belts of timber, embracing the varieties that grow in this latitude. The soil compares well with the richest and most productive of the uplands in this county, and is particularly adapted to the growing of wheat, vegetables, and Iruits of all kinds, which yield abundantly. The cultivation of fruits and vegetables is being rapidly introduced, and its proximity to St. Louis markets, renders this a very desirable location for those wishing to engage in this delightful pursuit.

There will always attach an interest to the history of the pioneer families of the west, which can never properly belong to others who came at a later date, as they have laid the foundation of our social and material status, and coming generations can only modify and develop that which was by their bravery, energy and perseverance at first established. By their strong arms the forests were felled, the tangled undergrowth cleared away, the stubborn glebe broken, and the primitive cabin, school-house and church erected. To this class of pioneers the Bradsby family belonged, and to them is properly due the honor of making the first settlement in what is now Lebanon precinct. Early in the spring of 1804, William H. Bradsby, the oldest son, and two other young men came from Kentucky, and located on Silver creek, about three miles north of the present site of Lebanon, where they made an improvement and raised a crop. In the fall of the same year the elder Bradsby brought the balance of the family from Kentucky and located them on the farm, where he continued to reside. This settlement was seven or eight miles in advance of the other inhabitants. Reynolds, in his Pioneer history, says: "The Bradsby family were brave and energetic pioneers. They possessed good talents, and were fearless and intrepid. They were firm and decisive when they took a stand ; and were also moral and correct, and made good citizens. The old sire taught school in various neighborhoods. He had a school, in the year 1806, in the American Bottom, almost west of the present Collinsville, and the year after he taught another in the Turkey Hill settlement " His sons, William H., and James, were in the ranging service and made good soldiers. Wm. H. Bradsby became a physician, and practiced in this locality for some time. In 1814, he was elected from St. Clair county, a member of the territorial legislature. He subsequently became a resident of Washington county, Illinois, and first resided at Old Covington. Here he held a number of offices, in the early history of the county, and when the county seat was moved to Nashville, he changed his residence to that place, where he soon afterwards died. Some of the descendants of this family are still living in St. Clair county.

Thomas Higgins was a native of Barren county, Ky. He was a relative of the Bradsbys, and came to Illinois in 1807, and settled near them in this precinct. Higgins was of a muscular and compact build, medium in height, strong and active. He possessed a quick and discerning judgment, and was without fear. In 1814 he was one of the party of eleven men, under the command of Lieutenant John Journey, stationed at Hill's Fort, about eight niile3 south-west of the present Greenville. Early on the morning of the 21st of August, signs of Indians were discovered near the fort, and the company started on the trail. They had proceeded but a short distance when they were in an ambuscade of a large party. At the first fire their commander. Journey, and three men fell, and the remainder, all but Higgins, retreated to the fort. He fctopped as he said, " to have another pull at the red skins, ' and, taking deliberate aim, he brought one of their number to the ground, and wheeled his horse to leave the scene, when the familiar voice of Burgess hailed him, " Tom, don't leave me." He halted, dismounted and attempted to raise him on his horse, when the animal took fright and ran away. Higgins then directed Burgess to limp oft' as best he could, and by crawling through the grass he reached the fort in safety, while' the former loaded his gun and remained behind to protect him against the pursuing Indians. When Burgess had crawled beyond the reach of the enemy, Higgins took another route, which led by a clump of timber. At this point he was confronted by three savages, when he changed his course in the direction of a small ravine, for shelter, and in the effort discovered, for the first time, that he was wounded ia the leg. The largest and most powerful of the Indians pursued him closely, and lodged a ball in his thigh. He fell, but as quickly arose, only to draw the fire of the other two, and again fell wounded. The savages now advanced upon him with upraised tomahawks and scalping knives, but as he presented his gun first at one, then at another, from his place in the ravine, each wavered in his purpose. Finally, supposing that Hlggins' gun was empty, neither party having had time to reload, they rushed forward with a yell, and one of their number was shot down. At this the others raised a war-whoop and rushed upon the wounded Higgins, and a hand to hand conflict ensued. Darting at him with their knives time and again they inflicted many ghastly flesh wounds, which bled profusely. One of the savages threw his tomahawk with such precision as to sever his ear and lay bare his skull, knocking him down. They now rushed upon him, but he kicked them off, and grasping one of their spears thrust at him, was raised up by it, and quickly seizing his gun, by a powerful blow crushed the skull of one, but broke his rifle. His remaining antagonist still kept up the fight, making thrusts with his knife at the bleeding and exhausted Higgins, which he warded off with his broken gun. This desperate engagement was in plain view of the fort, and the cowardly rangers refrained from giving him aid, until a Mrs. Pursely, residing at the fort, no longer able to see so brave a man contend unaided for his life, seized a gun, and mounting a brave horse, started to his rescue. At this the men took courage and hastened along. The Indian observing them, fled. Higgins, being nearly hacked to pieces, fainted from loss of blood, and was carried to the fort, where his comrades cut two balls from his flesh ; others remaining. For weeks his life was despaired of, but by tender nursing he recovered, badly crippled. This was undoubtedly the most desperate singlehanded combat with Indians ever fought on the soil of Illinois. Mr. Higgins received a full pension, and pursued farming in Fayette county, whence he moved, and at one time was door-keeper of one of the houses of the General Assembly at Vaudalia. He raised a large family, and died in 1829.*

It is said by the oldest residents that the Journeys lived in this vicinity at an early date. They were genuine, resolute pioneers. They were active men in the ranging service and great Indian fighters. Among this class also belongs the Sheltons, - Thomas and Josiah Shelton. They were brothers, and lived here prior to 1810. Julius and Pleasant Nichols, brothers, from Kentucky, settled one and a half miles south-east of the present Lebanon, as early as 1807. They had large families. Samuel and George M'Donald, settled just south of Lebanon about the same date. It was not far from this date that Wiley Lovings, David, Ezekiel, Isaac and William Smith, brothers ; the Downings and Dunnavans located along Silver creek, near the Bradsby settlement.

Austin Lyons, John Titus and John Shaves, negro slaves, who had been brought here and freed by Governor Edwards, settled and made improvements in the same neighborhood. Robert McMahon located about two miles north-east of the present site of Lebanon, probably as early as 1810, where he cultivated a large plantation, and subsequently moved near Troy in Madison county, where he resided until his death. He emigrated from Kentucky and settled at New Design the spring of 1 795. In December of the same year, his family was attacked by four Indians, in the day time, and his wife and four children were killed, and he 'and his two small daughters taken prisoners. The weather was cold and severe, and the prisoners being on foot, suffered much from cold. * This story is told by Reynolds, in his Pioneer History, p. 321.

The second night the party encamped above the present site of Lebanon, on a small branch of Silver creek. McMahon was tied down on his back, and most of his clothing taken off and placed under the Indians to prevent him from escaping. That night it snowed and was vefy cold, but McMahon had resolved to escape, rather than be carried to the Indian town and, perhaps, burntd at the stake. In the night when all were asleep, he quietly loosened the cords that bound his hands and feet. As he was about to rise, one of the large Indians raised his head and looked around, but not noticing him, again laid down, when McMahon arose and walked quietly from the camp. Without shoes and scarcely any clothing, he traveled through the snow, in the direction of New Design. He reached there after the settlers had buried his wife and children, and while they were assembled at the fort of James Lemen, sen., holding a religious meeting. All were surprised at the return of McMahon, and as he sat by the fireside and related the story of the murder, to which he was an eye-witness, and his escape, the scene was at once affecting and sorrowful. His friends informed him that all his family that were killed, had been buried in one grave, to which he answered - " They were lovely and pleasant in their lives, and in their death they were not separated." His daughters were afterwards ransomed, and McMahon was again married, and lived a long and eventful life.

There were no doubt several other families within the limits now embracing Lebanon precinct, prior to 1812, but at this late period we are unabld to give their names. All of their number have gone to the narrow house appointed for all the living, and the tomb which received their worn frames, received also the host of recollections, anecdotes, and reminiscences which was of almost priceless value. Hence we can give only a few of the more prominent settlers of that early day.

Just after the war of 1812, Simon Lindley settled on the west side of Silver creek, near the Madison county line. He was a native of North Carolina, and emigrated from Kentucky to this state, and first settled in what is now Bond county. He had a family of three sons and four daughters, viz., John, Joseph, Simon, Mary, Sarah, Anna, and Elizabeth. Mr. Lindley and his wife were nearly fifty years old when they located here, and their children were well grown. He was a well-educated man, and a pioneer Baptist preacher, and surveyor. About 1820 he moved north and settled in what is now Sangamon county, where he resided until his death. His son John was a ranger in the war of 1812. The Lindleys of this family were also early residents of Madison county, where they left a large posterity.

In the fall of 1814, Edmond and Whitfield Townsend, natives of North Carolina, came from Tennessee, and located in the northern part of the precinct. Edmond reared three children - Thoma.", John and Nancy, but they have left no descendants. Whitfield had eight children born to him, seven of whom grew up, viz., Alfred, Adeline, Elizabeth, Edmond, Nancy, Whitfield, and William. Elizabeth, Edmond, Whitfield and William are living.

N. E. i sec. 29, 160 acres, Oct. 1 ; Gillis Maddeaux, 689 S) acres, sec. 30, Sept. 30 ; William Biggs, S. W. \ sec. 31, 184 acres, Dec. 24; Heirs of J. Lunceford, S. E. J sec. 31, 160 acres, Dec. 24; Charles Wakefitld, S. W. \ sec. 32, 160 acres, Sept. 15. Town 2 N. E. 7 W., Zachariah Hays, S. W. i sec. 23, 160 acres, Sept. 17 ; Abraham Balder, S. E. \ sec. 24, 160 acres, Sept. 15; Leaven Maddeaux, N. E. } sec. 25, IGO acres, Sept. 10; Wingate Maddeaux, S. E. \ sec. 25, 160 acres, Sept. 10; David S. White, S. W. \ sec. 11, 160 acres, Sept. 8; Robert Moore, S. E. \ sec. 5, 160 acres, Sept. 10, and Miles Abernathy, N. E. J sec 7, 160 acres, Sept. 10, are in that part of T. 1 N , R. 6 W., that belongs to Lebanon. The above lands were all entered in 1814, as stated, and in the list are recognized the names of parties who settled here prior to that date, and no doubt but that many of ihem lived at tlie time, on the land they entered, while others perhaps, never resided in the precinct. John Thomas, a Virginian, emigrated here with his family, April 9, 1817, and settled on sec. 35, T. 2 N., R. 7 W. He had a family of nine children, as follows : Mary, John, James, Catherine, Jacob, Elizabeth, Abraham, Calvin W., and Emeline. * They all married and had families and resided for a time in this county. Col. John Thomas, has held several oiEces, and is now a representative from this county in ihe State Legislature. James Thomas is living at a good old age in Lebanon. These two are the only members of this family now living in St. Clair. There was also another family of Thomases who settled in the same neighborhood - Robert, James D., John D., Anthony and David all brothers.

In December of the same year, 1817, Nicholas Horner, a native of Maryland, came with his family and settled one and a half miles north of Lebanon. He had two daughters and -three sons - Rachel, the wife of Thomas Ray : Sarah, who married Rev. David Chamberlain ; and Nathan, John and Charles-. Daniel Murry, from Boston, with a large family and his sonin-law, Thomas Ray, came with him to this country, and settled in this vicinity. Mr. Horner was a wealthy and enterprising gentleman, and resided here until his dtath. All his children left descendants. Nathan Homer became an early resident of Lebanon. He was an active, energetic man, an early merchant, and did much to build up and advance the interests of the young place. He died in Lebanon, in 1869.

John M Peck, D. D., the distinguished Baptist divine, pioneer and historian of Illinois, was born in Litchfield, Conn., Oct. 31st 1789, and emigrated to this country, as a missionary, in November, 1817. Until 1822 he resided in St. Louis and St. Charles, Mo., from whence he traveled as a minister of the gospel, and established many churches in both Missouri and Illinois. In the spring of that year, 1822, he settled at his celebrated site. Rock Spring, on section 27, T. 2 N., R. 7, W., in this precinct. The name was suggested from the fact of a stream of pure water gushing from the rocks near where he erected his first double log-house, in the same year_ In February, 1825, he went east and arranged for establishing a Baptist Seminary in Illinois, and this site was selectt-d for the location of the school. A two-story frame building, with two wings, was completed in 1 827, and the " Rock Spring Theological Seminary and High School " was opened. Rev. Joshua Bradly was principal. Rev. John M. Peck Professor of Theology, and Rev. John Messinger Professor of Mathematics. It opened with one hundred students. This was the first literary institution in the state higher than a common or primary school. In 1831 it was transferred to Alton, and became the foundation for Shurlleff Col. lege.

post office was also established at this place in 1829, and Rev. Peck was post-master. He was a prolific writer. Among his works we mention, without order, "The Emigrant's Guide," "Illinois Gazetteer, maps, etc ," " Life of Rev. John Clark, the Indian Captive," " Life of Rev. John Tanner," " Moral Progress of the Mississippi Valley," " Life of Rev. Jeremiah Vardeman," " The Memoirs of Rev. John M. Peck," compiled by Rufus Babcock, " The Annals of the West," etc.

Before his death John Reynolds wrote of him : " Nature has endowed Mr. Peck with her choicest gifts, and he himself has been indefatigable and energetic in his scientific and literary labors. He possesses a strong, vigorous and discriminating intellect. He is also blessed with an activity and energy that shrinks from no labor and research that is within the compass of his power. With his efficiency and energy of character he has accomplished much in the west. Education has been a favorite pursuit with him during his whole life in the western country."

He died at his Rock Spring residence, March 14th, 1857, and his remains repose in the Bellefontaine cemeteryj at St. Louis, where a fine monument is ere ted to his memory.

Rev. Peck raised a family of seven children, viz. - Hannah F., the widow of Ashford Smith, resides in Iowa ; Harvey J., died in Iowa ; Mary A., the wife of Samuel G. Smith, resides on the old homestead ; William S., in Iowa ; John Q. A., deceased ; James A. and Henry M. both reside in California.

William Nichols was born in Kentucky, and came to this county and located a short distance south-east of Lebanon, in 1825. He raised a large family, and several of his descendants are living here.

Rev. William L. Deneen was a native of Penn. Born in 1798, and settled in this county, about midway between Lebanon and Belleville, in 1828, and subsequently became a resident of Lebanon. He had but three children, - Sarah, the wife of A. W. Metcalf, a prominent lawyer of Edwardsville, III. ; Risdon, who died in 1864, and Samuel H., a professor in McKendree College. Rev. Deneen was a Methodist minister, and surveyor. He was a man of considerable talent, and as a civil engineer and mathematician he ranked among the best He died, after a long and valuable life, at Lebanon, in July, 1879.

Thus we have sketched some of the earliest and most prominent settlers in Lebanon precinct. We have not mentioned all of them, and if it were possible, it would not be necessary, nor perhaps interesting. From the time the fear of Indian depredations ceased, the settlements and population gradually increased. Schools and churches were early established, and have been liberally maintained. Fine steam flouring mills replace the rude ox and horse-mills of pioneer days. Seventy years ago, this was comparatively an uninhabited waste ; only here and there stood the lone cabin, as an evidence of the more advanced pioneer of civilization ; while to-day its broad acres are subdued and made to yield, and on every hand may be seen well-made farms and houses teeming with life and activity. The population of the precinct, including the city of Lebanon, was 3,674, as taken from the census report of 1880.

We append the names of a few of the oldest citizens now residing in this precinct, who have not already been mentioned : H. H. Horner was born in Lebanon in 1821 ; Joseph Hypes, a native of Botetourt county, Virginia, came here in 1821 ; Dr. R. F. Cunningham, born in Maryland, located here in 1834 ; J. L. Sargent, nativity New York, settled in 1821 ; Thomas Moore, a native of St. Clair county, born in 1825 ; W. E. Willoughby, of Kent county, Delaware, settled here in 1835 ; Isaac Nichols, born in the county, in 1816 ; A. G. Moore, who was born in the county in the same year ; N. Perrin, nativity France, located here in 1834 ; H. P. Miiuie, also a native of France, came in 1831 ; Wm. A. Darrow, a native of St. Clair, born in 1837 ; Jeremiah Bennett; a North Carolinian, came in 1835 ; and Edward Luckner, a native of Germany, located here in 1838.

In section 27, T. 2 N, R. 7 W. is located the nursery of George Crosby. It contains thirty acres of fruit, shade, ornamental trees, evergreens, berries, etc. They furnish stock in this neighborhood and adjoining counties. The business was established by his father, Thomas Crosby, deceased, about thirty years ago, and has been very successfully managed.

Bennett's Coal Mine is also located in this precinct, two miles west of Lebanon, on the O. and M. Railroad. The shaft was sunk in 1873 by Jeremiah Bennett, and a five and one-half feet vein was reached at a depth of 180 feet. It is now leased and operated by Donnawold & Herring, who employ about thirty men.

The Lebanon Distillery was erected in 1856 by Gen. J. B. Osterhaus, at a cost of about forty thousand dollars. It passed through several hands, and was purchased in 1 873 by C. Pfeffer, who enlarged and remodeled the building and apparatus. The capacity is one thousand bushels per day, twenty four hours' run. High Wines, Bourbon, French and Cologne Spirits, Whiskey, etc, are principally made. The distillery is finely located on the banks of Silver creek, near the O. and M. railroad, about one mile from

City Op Lebanon

This beautiful and thriving little city is located on the Ohio and Mississippi railroad, twenty-two miles east of St. Louis, and about eleven miles north-east from Belleville, the county-seat. It is eligibly situated, on a gracefully sloping hill, and commands a fine view of the surrounding country. The city is nicely laid out, and contains many elegant residences. The streets are broad, with good side-walks, and well shaded. The south-east quarter of section nineteen, upon which the original town was laid out, was entered by Henry White, September 24, 1814. Thri first house was erected by Gillis Maddeaux. It was constructed of logs, and was situated in the south-eastern part of the town, but has long since disappeared. The next was erected by Joseph Akin, and stood just south-east of the present public square, on the lot now owned by Mrs. Flint. Joseph Hathaway built a two-story log cabin on west Main street where Neuman's saloon now stands. Thomas Ray, the proprietor of the west end of the town, built the next, a little west on the same block. Another log house was built just opposite these, on the sam 3 street by Nathan Horner. Adam Vinyard also built a house in the east part of town. The first store was established as early as 1818, by Gov. Kinney, and kept by his nephew, Abraham Kinney. Thomas Ray, Nathan Horner, Mulligan & Sublett, Samuel and Andrew Christy and James Riggin opened stores soon afterwards. These and perhaps a few more log buildings were erected on the present site of Lebanon prior to 1820- In that year Gov. Kinney erected the hotel « Veranda," which is still standing and forms a part of the Bishop House. It is brick, and in those days it was considered a very handsome building. This, then, became a stage stand, being located on the line of the Vincennes and St. Louis stage route. A post-office was established and mails were received by stage twice a day. About this time Gov. Kinney built an oxmill for grinding flour. In 1821 Col. E. B. Clempson erected the first frame house. This now forms a part of H. H. Horner's resi- 43 '

The town was laid out by Gov. William Kinney and Thomas Ray. It was surveyed and platted by Aaron Reed, Jr., and filed in the office of county Recorder July 27, 1825. Since then there have been twenty-one additions made to the original plat. In 1828 there were not more than thirty cabins and houses in the place. There were two stores, one kept by Nathan Horner and the other by James Riggin, a grocery, or saloon, kept by Josiah Crocker, and a log school-house with oiled paper for windows, where school and religious meetings were held. The Lebanon Seminary (McKendree College) was also partially completed and the school established. In the fall of 1832 a large store-house was erected and a complete stock of general goods was opened by Horner and Hypes. Benjamin Hypes, of this firm, was born in Virginia in 1810, and came here from Ohio, and was an early and prominent business man from 1828 to 1863, and is still living here much esteemed by the community. Joseph Hypes, his brother, was also born in Virginia, in 1798. He came here as early as 1821, and engaged in the milling business, and subsequently in the manufacture of carriages and wagons. He is yet living, hale and hearty, at his residence in this city. James Riggin, a Tennesseean, was an early and enterprising merchant, and died here in 1858. His excellent wife survived him until a few years ago. Esquire Thomas Williams built a tannery establishment here in 1829, and operated it successfully and profitably for many years-. He died about 1865, and left a handsome estate. Lyman Adams, an old sea captain, built a hotel here in 1830, known as the "Mermaid House." He was also an early merchant, and an active business-man He died here in the decade of 1850. The hotel " Veranda," mentioned above, was first occupied by Jeremiah Johnson, a noted hotel-keeper. He was for many years proprietor of the old Missouri Hotel in St. Louis, and opened the " Veranda " in 1820, which he occupied until his death, about 1836. Theodore W. Gray, a native of Maryland, located in Lebanon in 1824 and engaged in the tailoring business, at which he acquired a competency, and is now enjoying a retired life, much respected by the citizens. These are a few of the very earliest and most successful business-men of the place.

The first steam flouring mill was erected in the north-east corner of the place, in 18;J2, by Capt. Elbridge Potter & Sons. There was also a distillery built in connection with the mill.

From the Illinois Oazeteer, published by Rev. John M. Peck in 1837, we copy the following: "Lebanon has a steam-mill for manufacturing grain, and an ox-mill for flouring, on an inclined plane ; a post-office, two public houses, seven stores, one grocery ; three physicians ; mechanics' shops of various kinds, and about sixty families. The Methodist college is located in the immediate vicinity." From this the town has grown, and now contains a population of about two thousand, with fine residences, handsome business blocks, good schools, churches, and various manufacturing institutions.

Incorporation. - Lebanon was incorporated as a town, under spcr cial charter, in May, 1857. The first officers were : Joseph Ifypes, president; Charles Blanck, register; Samuel Hypes, Treasurer; H. H. Horner, assessor ; Adam H. Wise, constable ; J. L. Sargept street inspector. Town Trustees were: Hugo Wangeljn, R. F. Cunningham, James Radon and Thomas Jordan.

It was organized as a city, under the general law, August 18, I874, and the following were elected the first officers: H. H. Horner, Mayor ; Louis Zerweck, clerk ; D. R. Lasley, treasurer ; J. F. Webb, attorney ; A- Pyle, street commissioner and city marshal. The council is composed of nine aldermen, three elected \a pach of the three city wards,

The present city officers are: J. Eaiikin, mayor; Louis Zerweck, clerk ; C. H. Sager, treasurer ; J. Eckert, attorney ; Peter Bruecher, city marshal ; George Eiddle commissioner of streets.

Schools. - The first school was taught in a log cabin about 18x20 feet, that was erected just south-east of the square as early as 1818. In this building Kev. John M. Peck organized the first Sundayschool, in the summer of 1821. School was held in this cabin for a period of three or four years, when a small frame school-house was erected by the public, which was also used for religious meetings by all denominations. The public schools were mostly held in churches and halls, rented for that purpose, until 1866, when a fine brick school-house was erected, that cost upwards of $40,000. It stood on the same lot occupied by the present beautiful structure. February 28, 1873, this building was burned, and in the same year the new one was completed, at about the same cost. It is constructed of brick, three stories high, and contains ten rooms, all furnished with the latest improved school furniture. The school is graded and employs eight teachers.

MeKendree College was founded as an institution of learning February 20, 1828. It received its first charter from the state in 1834. and a new charter was granted June 26, 1839. It is a Methodist institution, and has always been largely patronized by the Missouri and Illinois Conferences. On the roll of Alumni there are the names of nearly four hundred persons, many of whom are in high offices of trust both in church and state.*

Illinois Literary and Commercial Institute and School of Art was founded September 20, 1880, by Prof. J. W. Whittlesey. This is a new school, and judging from the patronage it has received, it will be a successful one. Prof. Whittlesey is an energetic, enterprising gentleman, and has an able faculty associated with hira.

Churches. - There are eight churches in the city, all neat and comfortable buildings. - Presbyterian, Methodist Episcopal, Free Methodist, German Methodist, and Colored Methodist, German Lutheran, Baptist and Eoman Catholic,

Manufacturing Industries - The Veranda Flouring Mill was erected in 1856. It is built of brick, 50x60 feet, and four stories high. It contains six run of burrs, with a capacity of 200 barrels per day, and is now owned by Joseph Mueller & Co. It manufactures several brands of excellent flour, most of which is shipped to eastern markets. The mill is valued at $50,000, and employs thirteen men.

The St. Clair Flouring Mill was built by W. V. Keese & Son, in 1880, at a cost of about $10,000. It is a frame building, three stories high, and contains three run of burrs, with a capacity of 50 barrels per day. The Star Fancy brand of flour of their manufacture is equal to that made by any of the larger mills, and finds ready market at home and in St. Louis.

The Carriage, Wagon and Agricultural Implement Manufactory of J. H. Lehman's, was established in 1861. He has large and commodious buildings, steam power, and all the modern improved machinery for making the best class of work. Employs about ten men The Lebanon Brewery was purchased by J. Hammel, in 1860, who remodeled the building, and enlarged the capacity. This brewery has all the most modern improvements for brewing, and manufactures about six thousand barrels a year. It is sold at home and in all the neighboring towns. Hammel's bottle beer is a good article, and is gaining reputation. Mr. Hammel has a vineyard of several acres, and manufactures considerable wine. He is also engaged in the ice business.

Lebanon Soda and Mineral Water Factory was erected by Charles J. Renter, in 1868. It is a frame building; steam power. Soda and all the various kinds of mineral waters are made and sold at home and in all the adjacent towns. Mr. Beuter has been very successful in this enterprise.

The Great American Cigar Manufactory was established by Julius Hofllnann in 1866. He employs about fifteen men in the manufacture of cigars. They are tine brands, and he has a large trade.

There are also two brick-yards - the Sager Brothers, - is located in the east side of the city, and that of William Boyce's in the northern part, both of which burn a good quality of brick.

Concord Park - is situated in the southern suburbs, and is the property of F. Keitel. It contains several acres, with nicely arranged walks, well shaded with forest and ornamental trees. There are music and speakers' stands, dancing hall and bar, on the grounds. This is quite a popular resort for summer excursions from St. Louis.

Bank. - The Banking House of Baker & Schaefer was commenced in 1873, by Seiter & Ramsay. In 1876 it was changed to H. Seiter & Co., and September 1st, 1880, to the present firm name. The capital is upwards of $200,000, and it is considered a safe and reliable institution.

Business Houses, Trade Of 1881

Who is now one of the oldest members of the St. Clair cc.unty bar, is a native of the county, and was born at Lebanon on the 22il of February, 1821. His great-grandfather emigrated from England, and settled near Baltimore. His grandfather, Nicholas Horner, in the year 1812 removed from the neighborhood of Baltimore to the State of Ohio, and, after living five years near Cincinnati, he came to Illinois, and settled two miles north of Lebanon, where he made a purchase of five hundred acres of land. For the improved part te paid ten dollars an acre, a price which was made high by the cost of labor and material. On this farm Nicholas Horner lived till his death.

Nathan Horner, fiUher of the subject of this sketch, was born in Maryland in the year 1790 He was united in marriage in Ohio to Nancy Hypes, who was born near the James river, in Bottetourt county, Virginia, within seven miles of Fincastle, the county seat.

Her father was Henry Hypes. She was a woman of much intelligence and remarkable energy. After coming to Illiuoii Nathan Horner engaged in farming, and in 1818 or 1819 undertook the mercantile business, and opened the first store in the town of Lebanon He carried on the mercantile business for many years, till prevented from f)llowing it by the infirmities of old age. For a long time he was in partnership with Benjamin Hypes. He died in 1867. He had enjoyed only ordinary advantages for obtaining an education, but was fond of reading, and by this means aci]uired much valuable information. He was a warm friend of education, and was one of those interested in establishing the seminary which was the foundation of the present McKendree college. At a time when this institution was involved in serious difficulties he expended considerable means in assisting to place the college on a sound financial basis. He was one of the leading members and supporters of the Methodist church. His views coincided with those of the Whig party, and he was especially a warm admirer of Henry Clay, but he took no active or conspicuous part in politics. The subject of this sketch was the oldest son and second child. He was brought up in his native town of Lebanon, and obtained his education in McKendree college, from which he graduated in 1841. Having designed to enter the legal profession, he studied law in the office of Judge William H. Underwood at Belleville, and was admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of Illinois in 1847. He began practice at Belleville, but, after residing a short time in that place, returned, on account of his private interests, to Lebanon, where he has since been occupied in the active practice of his profession. Few members of the legal profession have been longer connected with the St. Clair county bar, and he has lived in the county longer than any other lawyer. Mr. Horner succeeded ex-governor A. C. French in 1865 as dean of the law department of McKendree college, which position he now holds. He was married on the 19th of November, 1857, to Helen M. Danforth, who was born at St. Albans, Vermont. By this marriage he has had six children, of whom four are now living. Of these the oldest, Henry Koland Horner, now resides in Colorado. Wilbur N. is fitting himself for the legal profession. The two daughters are named Hattie H. and Bertha A. Horner. Li his political views he was in early life connected with the democratic party. Like many in that organization, he was, however, opposed to slavery ; and, when the question of the extension of slavery into the territories came to be conspicuously agitated, in common with the free-soil democrats, he assisted to form the republican party, cast his vote for president for Fremont in 1856, and has been a republican from that date to the present. His time has been devoted to his profession and the management of his private business affairs. He was the first mayor of Lebanon, on its organization under a city charter, and held that office two terms. His portrait appears at the head of this sketch.

Hermann J. Blanck

HERMANN J. BLANCK. This gentleman was born at Malchow, Mecklenburg Schwerin, Germany, November 24th, 1835. The names of his parents were Henry and Elizabeth Blanck. He was the second of a family of six children, of whom four are now living. His father was a weaver and manufacturer of cloths. In 1847 the family emigrated to America, and after stopping a few weeks came to Lebanon late in the fall of that year. His father purchased the woolen mill at Lebanon, which had been standing idle for some time, and which he ran successfully for twelve or thirteen years. He died at Lebanon in 1876. Hermann J Blanck, when about twenty, became clerk in his brother's store. On the 17th of April, 1861, he enlisted for service in the war of the rebaliiou, in Cj. B, of the Ninth Illinois reo'iment. Djring the greater part of his three months' service he was stationed at Cilro, aid from thare hU regimant made some excursions into Missouri. He was mastered out July 25th, 1861. Shortly after his return he embarked in business on his own account. He now has the largest store in Lebanon, and carries on a general merchandizing business. He Was married on the 23d of November, 1865, to Mary E. Rankin. He has one child, Katie H Blanck. In his political opinions he is a democrat, and has always voted that ticket, except in 1864, during the war of the rebellion, when he supported Lincoln for the presidency. His time has been closely devoted to his business, and he has filled no public position with the exception of acting as alderman. He is a member of Lebanon Masonic Lodge, No. 110, and of St. Clair Lodge of Odd Fellows, No. 119.

Benjamin Hypes

Among those who have been intimately and honorably connected with the history of Lebanon is Benjamin Hypes, who was born near Fincastle, Bottetourt county, Virginia, February 10, 1805. His grandfather, Nicholas Hypes, emigrated from Germany, lived for a time in Philadelphia, and from there moved to Winchester, in the valley of Virginia, where be purchased seven or eight hundred acres of land, on which the town of Winchester is built. His land was lo3t t > tUs heirs of the family by reason of the failure to make the fin.^1 payment of a few pounds. He then engaged in the management of a large iron works in Virginia, and afterward purchased a tract of a couple of thousand acres of land in Bottetourt county. Henry Hypes, the father of the subject of this sketch, was born in Bottetout county, and married Patience, daughter of John Reynolds. In 1811 he removed from Virginia to Xenia, Greene county, Ohio. Part of his farm is now covered by the town of Xenia. He came to Illinois in 1818, with a view of securing a location for settlement in this state, but concluded to remain in Ohio. His first wife died in that state in 1823. He died in Ohio in 1851.

Benjamin Hypes was nearly six years old when the family made their home in Ohio. School advantages were scarce in those days. His mother was his only instructor till he was seventeen, when a school was established at Xenia, which he attended nine months previous to his reaching the age of twenty-one. In 1828 he became a resident of Lebanon. For two years he carried on an ox-mill, which was then the only means at Lebanon for grinding grain. This mill had two run of burrs, and was considered a superior mill, and manufactured considerable quantities of flour. In the fall of 1831 he became a partner in the mercantile business with Nathan Horner, with whom he was associated till 1840 ; from 1835 to 1837 H. K. Ashley also being a member of the firm. After farming three years, in 1843 he opened a store of his own, which he carried on till 1863. Soon after the inauguration of President Lincoln he was appointed post-master at Lebanon, and retained that ofiice during Lincoln's administration. He was married in November, 1834, to Caroline, daughter of Daniel Murray. She was born in Baltimore in 1814. Her father was one of the early settlers of the county, becoming a resident of Belleville in 1812. His children are, Cornelia Maria ; Adelaide Victoria, wife of Thomas Essex, of Little Rock, Arkansas; William Henry; Mary Julia, wife of A. S. Maguire, a lawyer, of Chicago ; Benjamin Murray, now practicing mtdicine in St. Louis, and Caroline Virginia, who married the Rev. William F. Swahlen, Professor in McKendree college.

He formerly was a whig in politics, and cast his first vote for president for Henry Clay. He has acted with the republican party since its organization. Since 1831 he has been a member of the Lebanon Methodist Episcopal church. He has been one of the pillars of that denomination at Lebanon, and has contributed freely to the support both of the church and the McKendree college. His house has always been the home for the ministers, and nowhere have they met with a heartier welcome or a more generous hospitality. He was a class-leader in the church from 1834 to 1879. He was a member in the first lay conference held at Cairo in 1871, and a delegate to the general conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church held at Brooklyn in 1872. He is the only one of the charter trustees of McKendree college now living. He was auditor of the college in 1835 and 1836, treasurer from 1836 to 1873 ; for two years he was president of the joint board of trustees and visitors, and has always been among its warmest friends and wisest supporters.

William Nichols, one of the old residents of St. Clair county, was born in Hardin county,, Kentucky, on the 27th of August 1805. His father, George Nichols, came to Kentucky from Georgia. He married Mary Beard, whose birth-place was on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. The subject of this sketch was the next to the oldest of a family of seven children. He was raised in Kentucky. When he was six months old his father moved from Hardin to Christian county,' and there Mr. Nichols spent the early years of his life. He had only ordinary advantages for obtaining an education, going to Fchool in the winter season and on rainy days, when it was impossible to do any labor on the farm. At the age of twt nty-one he came to this state, and settled in the neighborhood of Lebanon. For several'years after coming to St. Clair county he employed part of his time in making rails, and made as many as a hundred thousand at the customary price of fifty cents a hundred. St. Louis was then a place of small size and importance ; and where now is built a portion of East St. Louis, Mr. Nichols w hen a young man split rails and made hay. By means like these he secured enough money to enter eighty acres of land south-east of Lebanon, on which he lived till he removed to that town. He built on this farm a brick house of small dimensions, which at the time of its erection, was considered one of the handsomest residences in that part of the county. His father had previously given him a quarter section of land, unimproved and covered with brush, which was of no benefit to him for many years. This land is still in his possession. He paid taxes on it for fifty years before it brought him any return.

In the spring of 1831 he volunteered his services, and was engaged m the Black Hawk war. He enlisted in a company commanded by Capt. William Moore. He went through the campaign without taking part in any engagement with the Indians. He was man led on the 25th of March, 1833, to Delilah Moore, daughter of Robert Moore, who was horn in St. Clair county, at the old settlement known as Union Grove, three miles south of Lebanon. Her father resided in the county during the war of 1812-14, when many of the inhabitants were obliged to live in forts for protection against the Indians. His first wife died on the 6th of February, 1849. His second marriage occurred October 1st, 1854, to Caroline Virginia Lingenfelter, who was born at Winchester, Clark county, Kentucky, in 1822. Her father was David Lingenfelter, a Pennsylvania. Her mother was Rebecca Hutchinson. In the year 1852 he became a resident of Lebanon, and for some years was employed in the mercantile business. After quitting the store he was engaged for a time in land speculations whiili he made profitable to himself. Various business enterprises at different times occupied his attention. Till within a recent peiiod he has always been engaged, more or less, in handling stock. In 1859 he purchased a saw mill on a tract of laud west of the town of Lebanon, and was in the lumber business until the close of the war. lu 1861 he ran a grist mill at Lebanon. He owned at one time abnut twenty-two hundred acres of land, a considerable part of which he has given to his children. He had seven children by his first marriage, of whom three are now living : Mary J., now the wife of Thomas Moore, of Lebanon ; Mrs. Nancy C. Hendrickson ; and William Lee Nichols, of Lebanon. Of the four children by his second marriage, three are now living : Orrin Nichols, Julia Belle Nichols, and Louis H. Nichols. In early life he was a member of the whig party. His first vote for president was cast for Henry Clay, for whom he voted every subsequent time he was a candidate as he did also for Harrison and the other whig nominees. He was an early member of the republican organization, and has been one of its warmest and strongest supporters. He came to this county without any means, and by his activity and industry, became one of the wealthiest men in the vicinity of Lebanon. He was of an energetic and active temperament ; in the early part of his life he worked hard ; and was always a successful business man. His wealth has been secured by economy and wise accumulation, and is not the result of any sudden, successful stroke of speculation. He has always been straightforward and honorable in his business dealings. He has filled no political office with the exception of eight years as constable, at a time when he was the only constable in the county east of Silver Creek, and was also in 1849 elected justice of the peace.

Michael Seiter, the father of the subject of this sketch, was bom in Baden, Germany, September 17th, 1809, In 1817 the family emigrated to America, and on the passage across the ocean both his father and mother died, leaving him an orphan at the age of eight years. This voyage was made in a sailing vessel, and occupied three months' time. The masters of the ship were hardhearted men, and furnished the passengers with insufficient food, so that some of them landed in an almost famished condition. On reaching Pennsylvania, Mr. Seiter went to live with a farmer in Lancaster county, and was raised by him. Though he had an opportunity to go to school to some extent, it was not nearly as much as had been promised. He would be sent to school one day, and the next two or three kept at home to do some work on the farm. After reaching the age of twenty one, he had better educational advantages, working on a farm during the summer months, and in the winter attending school. He was naturally ready with tools, and learned the carpenter's trade with a man by whom he was employed in Pennsylvania.

Thinking he could get better wages in the west, he came to Illinois in the year 1839. At Lebanon he found work with John Stewart, and helped build a house in that town. In the year 1841 he returned to Pennsylvania, and married Elizabeth Knott, daughter of William Knott. She was born on the 22d of September, 1804. In 1846 he purchased eighty acres of land north-east of Lebanon, on which he lived till he removed to the farm on which he died. He was a man of energy and industry, and his industrious and economical habits brought him success and enabled him to accumulate a competence. At the time of his death he was the owner of a large body of land, and was one of the wealthiest men in the north-eastern part of the county. His farm, which was one of the most beautiful locations in the state, consisted of three hundred and fifty-three acres, and he owned beside in the county six hundred acres. He was a democrat in politics. He was a man of temperate habits, and in the whole course of his life was never known to be under the influence of intoxicating liquors. He possessed a candid mind, and never hesitated to speak his opinion. His wealth was the result of honest labor, in which he was assisted by a persevering and sympathetic wife. The suspicion of dishonesly never rested on his business- transactions, but he was in all things an upright and honorable man and a good citizen. He had originally a good constitution, but through life performed much hard labor and underwent much exposure. After a week's illness, he died of pneumonia on the 8th of March, 1879. His remains now repose in the College Hill cemetery at Lebanon. His two children were both sons. The oldest, Hervey Seiter, was born Jan. 30, 1843, and died on the 10th of August, la45.

Henry Seiter was born in the town of Lebanon, Sept. 22d, 1845. After attending the district school in the neighborhood of his father's farm, at the age of twenty-one he entered McKendree College, from wnich he graduated in 1870. He also attended a commercial college in Chicago. In March of the ^ame year in which he graduated at McKendree, he also graduated at the law school connected with the University of Michigan, the sessions of which he had attended. In September, 1871, in partnership with Rufus Ramsay, he engaged in the banking business at Carlyle. In August, 1873, under the firm name of Seiter & Ramsay, he entered also into the banking business at Lebanon. This bank was the first ever started in that town. After dissolving his partnership with Mr. Ramsay in 1877, he carried on the banking business at Lebanon till 1880, when he disposed of the bank to the present firm of Baker, Schaeffer & Co. In his politics Mr. Seiter is a warm and active supporter of the principles of the democratic party. He was elected a representative in the state legislature from St. Clair county in 1878, and was one of that body serving on several important committees. In 1873 he married Alice Radefelt of Lebanon, who died May 9th, 1877. He had two children by this marriage, of whom one, Victor M. Seiter, is living at the agOi^of five. His present wife, whom he married Nov. 22d, 1879, was Mamie Badley of Alton. Her father, William Badley, was a native of Dudley, England. He has one child, Orval Roc Seiter, by this marriage. A view of Mr. Seiter's residence. Emerald Mound, appears among our illustrations. His name is worthy of a place in this work, as one of the representative men of the county.

Prof. Samuel H. Deneen

PROF. SAMUEL H. DENEEN. Samuel H. Deneen, Professor of Latin and History in McKendree College, is a native of this county, and was born near Belleville, December 20th, 1835. His father, the Eev. William L. Deneen, was born near Bedford, Bedford county, Pennsylvania, on the 30th of October, 1798. One of his ancestors was captain of a ship which traded from a French port. The family name is of French origin, and was originally spelled Denesne. When he was two years and a half old the parents of the Rev. William L. Deneen moved to Liberty township, Trumbull county, Ohio. Here he grew to manhood. His opportunities for obtaining an education were limited, but being gifted with a rare natural aptitude for mathematical studies he mastered all branches of the science of mathematics from arithmetic to calculus, with but little help from others. At the age of twenty he went to Vevay, Indiana, where he learned the hatting business, at which he worked for the four following years. Subsequently he taught school. In 1827 he was converted under the ministry of the Rev. George Locke, and in October, 1828, he was admitted to the Illinois conference. His jSrst appointment was Shoal Creek circuit which included the counties of St. Clair, Monroe, Clinton, Marion, Madison, Bond, Jersey, Fayette and Green. His other appointments were Salt Creek circuit, Lebanon circuit, Kaskaskia circuit, Brownsville mission, Waterloo circuit, Edwardsville, Belleville, Upper Alton, Alton, again at Belleville, Waterloo, and Lebanon.

For nineteen years his cares and labors were those of an itinerant minister of the M. E. Church. He had well nigh rounded out his half century of years, when, in 1847, a severe and prolonged attack upon his lungs compelled him to abandon public speaking and to take a superannuated relation as a minister. As soon as his health permitted he engaged in the business of surveying lands, into which he was led by his strong predilection for the science of mathematics, which had grown with his advancing years. He was county surveyor of St. Clair county from 1849 to 1851, and again from 1853 to 1855. His unusual proficiency in mathematics and the remarkable accuracy of his work as a surveyor received the highest testimonials from those most conversant with the business in which he was employed. In repeated instances the decisions of the courts were determined by the weight of his testimony and the reputation of his work. His services were constantly in demand until he had completed his four score years. He died in Lebanon, Illinois, July 11th, 1879. Mr. Deneen was an able preacher, a profound theologian, a true Christian. As a minister and as a surveyor he was strictly conscientious in all his labors. His long life was characterized by active service, eminent usefulness, and spotless integrity. He was married in 1831 to Verlinder B. Moore, daughter of Eisdon Moore. She was born on the 30th of June, 1802, and died June 30th, 1855. Her father came to Illinois from Georgia. Reference to his history is made elsewhere*. The children of this marriage were Eisdon Moore Deneen, bom July 25th, 1833 ; and died December 25th, 1864 ; Samuel H. Deneen, and Sarah A, the wife of the Hon. A. W. Metcalf, of Edwardsville.

The birthplace of Samuel H. Deneen was six miles east of Belleville. He entered McKendree College in 1850, and graduated in 1854. The following year he was engaged in teaching school and in prosecuting the study of the ancient languages. In 1855 he was elected tutor in the classics in McKendree College, and in 1858 was made Adjunct Professor of Ancient Languages. His studies now took a wide range over the field of ancient, and more especially, of Roman literature and he read carefully and critically the entire re- maining works of the principal Latin authors. In 1862 he was elected Professor of the Latin language and literature. In the summer of 1862 he enlisted in the Union army and was commissioned adjutant of the 117th regiment, Illinois volunteers. When his regiment entered the field he was appointed Acting Assistant Adjutant-General of the third brigade, third division, sixteenth army corps. This portion of the Union army saw service in the States of Missouri, Arkansas, Louisiana, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Alabama. He participated in the marches, skirmishes, and battles of his brigade until thelatter part of November, 1864, when he received an honorable discharge from the service on account of sickness.

In 1865 he resumed his labors in the college as Professor of Latin, the duties of which position had been divided among other teachers during his absence in the war. He engaged in his tasks with new vigor. Through his agency another year of Latin was added to the studies required in the classical course. He had sought in every way to render this department of collegiate instruction as ample and thorough as that found in the best American colleges. He has shared in the interest awakened among scholars in the department of comparative philology and has made a study of the modern tongues yet derived from the Latin, viz : the French, Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese. In recognition of his scholarly attainments the degree of Doctor of Philosophy was conferred upon him in 1876 by the Indiana Asbury University.

He was married in 1859 to Mary F. Ashley, daughter of Hiram K. Ashley, who was born in Tennessee, April 12th, 1802, and died at Lebanon, April 20th, 1865. Her mother, whose maiden name was Sarah A. Horner, was born at Lebanon, May 17th, 1819, and died September 5th, 1846, and was the daughter of Nathan Horner,f one of the early settlers of Lebanon. Mrs. Deneen was educated at the Illinois Female College, Jacksonville, Illinois, and the Wesleyan Female College, Cincinnati, Ohio, and is a graduate of the latter institution. The children of Prof and Mrs. Deneen now living are Edward Ashley, Charles Samuel, Sarah Alice, and Florence.

Formerly a resident of Lebanon, was born at Hartf )rd, Connecticut, in February, 1779 He was connected with the celebrated Adams family of New England. His father was a Presbyterian minister. At the age of eleven Capt. Adams left home and went on board a ship and became a sailor. He followed a sea -faring life for many years, and became captain of a yessel. He was employed in the merchant trade. After quitting the sea he settled in Baliimore, and, for a number of years, was recorder in the police court of that city. During the war of 1S12-14, he commanded a company of militia, raised for the defence of Baltimore, and was present at the battle of Bladensburg. From Baltimore he went to Louisville, Kentucky, and was there employed in the merchandizing and rectifying business.

He left Louisville in the year 1829, came to Illinois, and settled in Lebanon. He opened a dry goods store, and also a hotel. He carried on this hotel, which was called the "Mermaid," for some years. The travel at that time through Lebanon was quite heavy, the town being situated on the main stage line between Cincinnati and St. Louis. His house was well known from Vincennes to St. Louis, and many eminent men were entertained within its walls. At the time Charles Dickens made his journey from St. Louis to the Looking Glass prairie, he stopped over night at this hotel. Benton, and many other public men, were frequent guests. With many of the prominent state politicians of that day, especially those of the democratic school, Capt. Adam? was well acquainted. He was himself an active politician, and a strong supporter of the democratic faith. He served as post-master at Lebanon for many years, was, for a long time, justice of the peace, and also acted as Notary Public. He was a man of good business habits, was popular in the community, and well known throughout the county. He died on the second of July, 1851.

His last wife, whom he married in Louisville, Kentucky, was Matilda Glover. She was a native of Kentucky. Her mother, Mrs. Prudence Glover, who formerly resided in Lebanon, is now living in Cincinnati, and was one hundred and one years old on the twenty-first of June, 1881. Capt. Adams had eleven children, all by his last marriage. Of these three are now living The oldest, Cecelia, is the wife of Dr. Adolph Berger, of Lebanon. The two sons, Albert and Chester Adams, live at Moberly, Missouri, the former a farmer and the latter a physician and druggist.

Charles H. Sager

Charles H. Sagee, dealer in hardware and agricultural implements at Lebanon, is a native of Lancaster county, Ohio, and was born on the 5th of November, 1838. His father, Col. Charles Sager, was born in Hamburg, then belonging to Denmark, on the 10th of June, 1800. At the age of ten he left home, for six years was in the AVest Indies, and when sixteen came to America. From New York he went to Pittsburg, Pennsj Ivania, and was there employed as clerk in a store, working in the day, and at night attending school. He thus secured a good education, and subsequently taught school. From Pittsburg he went to Mount Vernon, Ohio, and at that place, on the 23d of September, 1823, married Jane H, Smith. He afterwards lived in Lancaster, Ohio, where he kept a hotel ; then moved to a little town named Oakland, twelve miles from Lancaster. In 1854 went to Washington, Ohio, and in the fall of 1858 came to Lebanon, to which place he brought his family the next year. He established the business at Lebanon, which is still carried on by his son, C. H. Sager. He died at Lebanon on the 2d of July, 1877. While a resident of Mount Vernon, Ohio, he com manded a regiment of home guards, and thus acquired the title of Colonel, which he carried through life. As a business man he was exact, accommodating, honest and reliable, and had the entire confidence of the community. He was first a member of the Lutheran Church, but assisted in the organization of the first Presbyterian Church of Lebanon, in which he was made a ruling elder, and of which he was a strong supporter. He was active in Sunday-school work.

C. H. Sager, the fifth of seven children, of whom four, two brothers and two sisters, are now living, resided in Ohio till twenty years of age. He then came to Lebanon with his father, with whom he engaged in business. After his father's death he continued to carry on the store, and is known as an enterprising and successful business man. He carries a full stock of hardware, and deals largely in the latest and most improved kinds of agricultural machinery. He was married in March, 1859, to Amelia Starkel, daughter of Charles Starkel. His children by this marriage are - Emile, C. M Sager, Francis, who died at the age of one year, Edgar Grant, James Richard and Jesse Blanche. He has been a republican in politics. He served one term as treasurer of the City of Lebanon. He is connected with the Odd Fellows and order of United Workmen, and is now a member of the School Board.