Warren County, Illinois - The whole text, 1886 (part 7 of 25)

Mr. Jared was a child in his mother's arms and was only six months old when the removal to Kentucky was made. He was but six years of age when the family came to Warren County, and was 15 when his father died. He has consequently been a resi- i dent of Warren County since 1836. He remained in the family of his mother until he went to California, in 1852. On the i6th of April of that year he set out for the land of gold and crossed the plains with an ox team, carrying a load of provisions and camping on the route. The company comprised ; Joseph Jared, D. K. Michael, Win. Rogers, the sub- ! ject of this sketch and B. F. Jared. Wm. Rogers died on the plains, from cholera, and was buried there.- Cholera made its appearance among them and many of the company lost their lives. After four months of travel the remainder of the party arrived at Placer ville, which then rejoiced in the significant name of Hangtown. Mr. Jared remained there six years and passed the first four years in mining and the next two in the business of a farmer. In 1858 he returned to the East, via the Isthmus of Panama and thence ; to New York and then home.

He resumed farming as soon as he was fairly at home in Warren County, locating >on land he had j bought before leaving for California. After a resi- j dence on it of about 16 years, he sold out and located on the farm which he has since occupied in the township of Point Pleasant. He bought the property in 1862, and at that time it consisted of wild prairie and timber. The farm is all improved, and is well supplied with good buildings. He is the owner of 470 acres in the township where he resides and of 115 acres in Swan Township, of which he has retained the ownership since it became his property.

His marriage to Mary J. Kelsey took place Dec. 15, 1859. The sketch of the parents of Mrs. Jared is given in full on another page, and the credit of its j appearance in this work is due to Mr. Jared, who has presented the items relating to the family of his wife. The latter was born in Sangamon Co., 111., Oct. i, 1835. Their five children are named Leenora

A., Allen E., George B., Israel K. and Roy L. James Albert died in his second year, Leon H. died in childhood, and Lilborn E. died in his fourth year.

awrence H. Gilmore is a. resident on section 34, Spring Grove Township, and has been a citizen of Warren County since 1833. In that year his parents, Col. Robert and Maria (Pilgrim) Gilmore (see sketch of Col. Robert Gilmore in biography of J. T. Gilmore), removed from Jefferson Co., Ohio, to Warren -Co., 111. The son was born in the former county April n, 1830, and was but three years of age when the family of which he was a small member located . in the township where he is now a part of the busi-

(ness element. Mr. Gilmcre had only the advantages of the pioneer home and log school-house, and attained to I he age of independent manhood in Warren County. He was born in a log house, schooled in a log house and lived in a log house until he built his present residence in 1854. His initial business enterprise on his own responsibility was the securing of a pre-emption claim in Spring Grove Township in 1851. It is the same on which he is now situated, on section 34. He had little available means, and he was obliged to borrow the balance of the purchase money beyond the amount of his small savings. In 1854 he built a small frame house on his property and at the same time commenced the work of improvement. He was until that year a member of the family of his father. From the little beginning made by Mr. Gilmore in 1854 his possessions have swelled until his real estate comprises more than 1,000 acres of land, all in advanced agricultural condition, 840 acres of which is in Spring Grove Township and 160 acres in Lenox Township. The acreage is divided into several farms, which are managed by himself and his sons. In 1857 Mr. Gilmore commenced to raise stock and since that date has operated in all the avenues of

Politically, Mr. Gilmore adheres to the faith of the Democratic party. He served his township as Supervisor for 1 1 or r 2 years, and it is said of him that he made a very excellent officer and did much to promote the welfare of his township.

Nov. 9, 1854, he was joined in marriage to Sarah A. Forwood, who was born July 19, 1831, in Harvard Co., Md., and is the daughter of William W. Forwood. (See sketch of him in the biography of his son, Benjamin F., on another page.) The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Gilmore, six in number, are named Clarence M., Frederick L., Frank E., George F., Rosa L. and Sarah B. They all reside at home except Clarence M., and Frederick L., the second son, who is married to Lillian, daughter of Schuyler Palmer, of Spring Grove Township. Her parents were pioneers of this county and are represented by a sketch in another part of this volume. He became a member of the First Presbyterian Church at Monmouth in 1856, his wife having been a member since 1852. For many years he has been a Trustee of the congregation and for the last five years has held the responsible position of Elder. He has ever been ready to advance the cause of religion and morality in his section of the country. Three of his children are also members of the Presbyterian Church.

"jasper M. Dull, farmer, residing upon section 8, Hale Township, is a native of Pennsylvania, having been born in Mifflin Co., Pa., Sept. 4, 1822. When Mr. Dull was five years old and after his father's death, his mother moved to Greene Co., Ohio, where Casper M. resided until 1851, being engaged in agricultural pursuits. His years prior to attaining his majority were passed on the farm and in attendance at the common schools. In 185 i Mr. Dull came to this county and joined with the farmers of Hale Township in their efforts to establish a permanent home for themselves and family. He became a citizen of that township by the purchase of 160 acres of land and by moving his family upon the same.

He at once engaged actively upon its cultivation and improvement, and has there resided until the present time, having developed his land until the major portion thereof is in an advanced State of cultivation.

June 5, 1861, in Greene Co., Ohio, he was united in marriage with Miss Margaret Stevenson, who was a native of the same county and State in which she was married, having been born there Dec. 25, 1832. Of their marriage, two children, a son and a daughter, have been born, - Florence J. and Calvin M., who reside at home. In politics, Mr. Dull is independent.

The parents of Casper M. Dull were Benjamin and Nancy (Junkin) Dull, natives of the Keystone State. They married and settled in that State, where his father died, his mother afterwards removing to Greene Co., Ohio, from which State she came to this county with the subject of this notice, and here died, at the age of 74, in February, 1876. She was the daughter of Major John and Catharine (Kirkpatrick) Stevenson. The Major was a native of Virginia and a soldier in the War of 1812. He went with his parents to Kentucky, where he grew up and was married about 1809 or 1810. They were married in their native State and immediately afterwards moved to Ohio, where he was a farmer and resided until his death. He had 12 children, of whom Mrs. Dull was the youngest.

Charles Torrance, one of the leading and well known farmers of the township of Point Pleasant, came to Warren County 1868, and settled in that township. He is the owner of 320 acres of excellent farm land and is closely identified with the development of the agricultural resources of the county.

Mr. Torrance was born in the town of Jay, Essex Co.. N. Y., Nov. 17, 1834. Riley Torrance, his father, was a native of Bennington, Vt., and was born May 13, 1801, only 13 years after the admission of that State to the Union. John Torrance, the father of the latter, removed from Bennington, Vt., to Essex Co., N. Y., in 1808, and was one of the earliest of the white settlers there. He purchased a large tract of timber land, upon which he cleared a farm. He was a resident there when the War of 1812 was declared, and lie enlisted in the service to protect what had cost the colonists so much to secure. He remained on the Essex County farm until his death. The name of the lady he married was Ruth Hurd. They had nine children, eight of the number living to become the heads of families.

The father of Mr. Torrance of this sketch was but seven years of age when his parents removed to the northern portion of the Empire State, and he was reared there on the farm of his father. He married Lydia Foulton, who was born at Plattsburg, Clinton Co., N. Y., Feb. 5, 1804, a place where some of the stirring scenes of the War of 1812 were enacted. Her father had died previous to that war. Her mother was the only woman that refused to leave the place at the time of the battle of Plattsburg. She said she was needed there and would remain and render all the assistance in her power. And she carried out her resolution.

At the time of hjs marriage, Mr. Torrance settled on a portion of the land which his father had purchased in the town of Jay and continued its occupant until r865. In that year he removed to Illinois, accompanied by his wife, and they passed the re- - mainder of their lives in the household of their son Charles. They were not long separated in their deaths, as that of the mother occurred Oct. 27, 1873, and the father died May 28, 1874, following the wife of his youth to the grave seven months after she had been placed within that retreat of peace and rest. They were the parents of 16 children, and of that number 13 grew to mature years, nine of whom are still living.

While in his early youth, Mr. Torrance of this sketch attended the common schools in the winter and operated as the assistant of his father in the summer. He remained in Essex County until 1858, when he turned toward the setting sun to seek a place where there was a reasonable prospect of winning the smiles of the fickle goddess, fortune. He came to Warren County and obtained a position as a farm hand. In the spring of 1859, accompanied by a party who p«sessed similar intentions, he set out for what was just then the land of promise - Pike's Peak. The company made their way across the plains with ox teams. They found, before they - arrived at their destination, that the stories that had lured them away from their homes were rather mythical, and as they received positive proof of the futility of the hopes that incited them, they turned their faces again toward the land of certainties. They arrived in Henderson County in the fall of the same year. Mr. Torrance rented land there and continued to operate it in that manner until 1868, when he came to- the township of Point Pleasant. He bought land on section 17 and made a permanent location thereon'. He has since been eminently successful and his farm is justly ranked, in 'proportion to its value, as one of the most desirable and best managed in the township. We present a view of his residence with its pleasant surroundings on page 272.

Mr. Torrance is a stanch Republican in his political relations, and has always been consistent in his actions. His wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

He was united in marriage to Margaret Hindman, May 1 8, 1871. She was born in Green Co!, Ind., and is the daughter of Joshua and Lucinda (Hughen) Hindman. Four daughters are now included in the household. Their respective names are Bertha, Carrie, Laura and Hallie.

his demise, which his widow is controlling at the present time. She has erected a fine residence and all other necessary outbuildings on her farm, and today it presents the appearance of thrift and energy . Mrs. Teare and family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

|ji obert Teare, deceased, was born on the Isle of Man, Feb. 3, 1828, and there lived until about 25 years of age, when he emigrated to Australia for the purpose of engaging in mining, and there remained about five years. He came to America, and in the spring of 1860 came to Warren County 'and located in Lenox Township, where he died Feb. 20, 1866.

His marriage to Martha Killey, who was also a native of the Isle of Man, having been born there March 5, 1840, was celebrated in their native country on the ist of March, 1860. She was the daughter of John and Catherine (Quayle) Killey, and of her union with Mr. Teare were born three children, - John K., Kate A. and Lizzie R.; all reside at home. Mr. Teare was the possessor and owner of 240 acres of excellent improved land at the time of y,ercules Honey, a well to-do farmer, residing on section 21, Hale Township, and clerk of that township, was born in this county, and in the township in which he now resides, Feb. 10, 1845. He received a commonTschool education, which he supplemented by a course of study at a commercial college at Dayton, Ohio. He has been a resident of this county, with tlie exception of three years, spent at Dayton,, and has devoted his time exclusively to the vocation of an agriculturist. He is at present the owner of| 90 acres of land, 80 of which is under an advanced! state of cultivation. On his farm he has erected a good set of buildings and his place presents an attractive appearance to the passers-by. A view o:_ his residence and farm buildinge is given on page 272.

Hercules Roney was married to Miss Mary A. Mumma, Feb. n, 1869, at Dayton, Ohio. She was born in Montgomery County, that State, Aug. 2, 1847, and has borne her husband one child, - Mary E. Mrs. Roney is the daughter of Joseph B. and Elizabeth (Solenberger) Mumma, who reside at Dayton.

Mr. Roney has held the offices of Commissioner of Highways and Township Clerk, of which latter position he is the present incumbent. He and his wife are members of the Presbyterian Church, and, in politics, Mr. Roney votes with the Republican party and endorses the principles advocated by it.

The parents of Mr. Roney of this sketch, Hamilton and Elizabeth (McReynolds) Roney, were natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio respectively. The father was an early settler of this county, coming here at the early day of 1836. His first marriage took place five years previous to his emigration to this county, his wife's maiden name being Miss Margaret Mackey, by whom lie had- five children. She died in 1841, and in 1842 he married Elizabeth McReynolds, at her home near Dayton, Ohio. She was a daughter of Joseph McReynolds. Hamilton Roney, in early life; was a blacksmith, and carried on that business in Monmouth for about five years. There his first wife died, and he continued to reside there a short time after his second marriage, when he removed to the farm. As a farmer he was eminently successful and became the owner of 700 acres of land, some of which was the finest farm land in the township. This is now divided among his sons and daughters, to whom, at his death, he left a comfortable competency. He followed the vocation of an agriculturist until 1863, when he went to Dayton, Ohio, and there, on the 3d day of March, 1884, departed this life. His wife survives him and resides in Dayton, Ohio.

;'ulius T. Lathrop, a retired farmer, resid- [£- ing in Roseville, Warren County, was born in Livingston Co., N. Y.,in the year 1818. He is a son of Colby and Polly (Terry) Lathrop, natives respectively of New York and New Hampshire. Coming to Ohio in an early ' day, he, the father of our subject, purchased land there and remained until his demise, which occurred Marcli 12, 1857, his wife dying in 1874 in Michigan. Julius T. assisted his father on the farm, attended the district schools and remained under the influence of his parents until he was 25 years of age. In 1846, after leaving home, he engaged in carpentering in a ship-yard in the Buckeye State, but not following that trade long, he emigrated West the same year, and settled in Greenbush Township, this county and State. Here he invested some money in the purchase of i 20 acres of prairie land, which he engaged laboriously in cultivating, and remained there for about 24 years, when he removed to Roseville village and bought a lot, on which he erected a building and has since lived therein, engaging in carpentering and wagon making a part of the time.

Feb. 22, 1843, he was married to Miss Almira Light, a native of New York, and they have one child living, - Sarah Sheppard, who resides in Iowa. Mrs. Lathrop died in 1874, and Mr. Lathrop took for his second wife a Mrs. Vurlinder T. Byarlay, a native of Indiana and daughter of Joseph and Susanna (Turnbull) Grain, natives of Indiana and Kentucky respectively. They lived in Indiana until their death, the father's occurring April, 1844, and the mother in March of the same year. Mr. Lathrop is the proprietor of a fine farm in Kansas, consisting of 1 20 acres. He is a member of the Christian Church and is one of the representative men of his village, and politically is identified with the Republican party.

ohn B. Graham, one of the oldest settlers in Warren County and a gentleman who has witnessed the wonderful developments the county has made during the last 50 years, and who has shared the privations incident to its early settlement, resides on section 3, Hale Township. He was born in Greene Co., Ohio, Jan. 31, 1817, and continued to reside in his native State until the fall of 1835.

During the year last named, Mr. Graham came to this county and located in Hale Township, where he has since lived. At that time, the hand of civilization had hardly turned a furrow and the land was in its original, natural condition. Having a firm determination in the future development of the county, he " stuck to it," and to-day lives to witness the fulfillment of a prediction made by him 50 years ago, namely, that Warren County would in time to come be one of the garden spots of the great commonwealth of Illinois. In r85o, he made a trip across the plains to the land of gold and spent 12 months in California and Oregon. The trip was not made for gain, but for health and pleasure, and after returning he located in Hale Township, where he has continued to reside until the present time, a period of almost 50 years from the time he first set' tied here. He is the proprietor of 340 acres of land located on section 3, Hale Township, the major portion of which is under advanced cultivation; and there, in the sunset of his life, he lives, enjoying the comforts which a life of labor, pluck and perseverance enabled him to procure.

The marriage of Mr. Graham took place in Hale Township, March 24, 1842, at which time Miss Mary T. Rogers became his wife. She was born in the" State of Missouri, Monroe County, Oct. 4, 1823, and has borne her husband 1 1 children, - Elizabeth L., born Dec. 17, 1842; William F., Oct 31, 1844; Phebe I., Feb. 8, 1847 ; Andrew R., March it, 1849; Mary L., Feb. 4, 1852; Aleri R. and John A., twins Aujj. 24, 1854; Emma A., June i r, 1858 ; Frank E., June 3, 1861; Nannie M., Jan 24, 1864; and Eva J., Jan. 1,1867. William and Andrew are deceased, Elizabeth L. is the widow of John Balmer, and resides in Hale Township with her parents; Phebe is the wife of David Armstrong, a farmer living in Nebraska ; Mary L. married T. B. McCulley, and they reside in Nebraska; John A. is a farmer of Hale Township ; Aleri R. is a physician residing at Little York ; Emma A. became the wife of George W. Hill, who lives in Nebraska ; Frank is a farmer in Hale Township; Nannie became the wife of Joseph W. Dawson, who follows the vocation of farming in Nebraska ; Eva J. lives at home.

Mr. Graham has been Supervisor of Hale Township one year, and has held other offices within the gift of the. people of his township. He is a Democrat in his political affiliations, and his wife is a member of the United Presbyterian Church.

lohn W. Reynolds, one of the progressive ^ and well known farmers of Warren County, and a resident of section 10 of Hale Township, was born in North Carolina, Aug.- 14, 1818. He went with his parents to Jackson Co., Ind., when but 12 years of age, and there resided until October, 1836, when he came to Warren County and settled in Hale Township. He has since made the latter place his permanent home, and is the proprietpr of 150 acres of excellent tillable

Mr. Reynolds was united in marriage in Hale Township, Sept. i, 1846, the lady chosen to become his wife being Miss Jane Campbell, who was born in in Carroll Co., Ohio, June 23, 1826. Of this union ten children were born, - George W., Josiah B., Martha A., William Y., John W., Mary J., Sarah E., Richie C., James W. and Thomas M. George W. and Martha A. are deceased ; Josiah, William and John reside in Warren County and are married ; Mary J. is the wife of F. P. Kilgore and resides in Kirkwood ; Sarah E., James and Thomas reside at home ; Richie resides in Spring Grove Township.

Mr. Reynolds has served his township as School Director, and. both himself and «ife are members of the United Presbyterian Church. Politically, he is a Republican.

P. Emans, who is accredited with being the oldest merchant of Roseville, having been constantly in business here since 1858, and one of the prominent business men of Warren County, came to this State from Ohio in 1855. He is a n.nive of the Buckeye State and was born in 1832. He was left an orphan when quite young and went to live with an uncle, who gave him good educational advantages. He sent him to the common district schools for a time and later to a select school. He then engaged as a clerk for his uncle and remained with him in that capacity until he was 23 years of age. During the meantime he studied book-keeping at Bacon's Commercial College at Cincinnati. His health failing, he was obliged to leave the desk and engage in some other calling. For a time he was interested in the livery business at Camden, Preble Co., Ohio. Here he remained for five years. He came to Illinois in May, 1855, bringing his livery stock, and located at Fairview, Fulton County. He remained here but a short time when he sold and came to Warren County and embarked in the mercantile business at Roseville. Here he has remained and one of the most widely known merchants in the southern part of the county. From 1870 until 1 88 1, he was engaged in the lumber business and also, in company with William A. Pratt, in the grain business, in which latter business he still continues. He is interested in Roseville village property and owns several houses which he rents. He does a large business in his store and employs two clerks and a boy.

Mr. Emans, in 1863, was married to Miss Anna Ostrander, a native of New York State, and came to Ohio when young. Her mother is a native of Ohio and came to Illinois in 1855, and now makes her home with her daughter, Mrs. Emans. Mrs. Ostrander has three sons, one a dealer in lumber and hardware at Swan Creek, and two others are in Washington Territory engaged in farming. Mr. and Mrs. Emans have two children living, - James H. and Jessie. Mr. Emans is a Republican and at present is serving as Treasurer of the village.

.ames A. Evans, deceased, who was one of Warren County's well known and successful farmers, and a resident on section 29, Lenox Township, was born in Virginia, March i, 1821, and passed his early life in the Buckeye State and Indiana. He afterward came to Illinois, locating in Henderson County, where he remained until his removal to Warren County, about the year 1851. Locating in Lenox Township, he entered land on section 29, where he resided and labored until death. He was the owner at the time of his demise, which occurred April 3, 1875, of 240 acres of some of the best equipped and cultivated land in his township, having fine substantial buildings and all other necessary appurtenances upon it; but his widow is now the possessor of only 80 acres.

Mr. James A. Evans was married in Henderson County, March 7, 1844, to Miss Lucy C., daughter of Washington and Elizabeth (McChesney) Fort, who was born in Kentucky May 10, 1827. Mr, and Mrs. Evans had become the parents of nine children, six of whom survive, viz. : Emeline, who became the wife of David Darr, and they are both now deceased ; Washington, deceased ; John A., who is married and lives in Lenox Township, this county ; Samuel, deceased; Stephen D., who is married and lives in Kansas ; Mary E. ; Ida J., now the wife of Thomas Davis and living in Gladstone, Henderson Co., 111.; James A., who resides in Kansas; and Jesse C. is at home.

Mrs. Evans is a member of the Baptist Church, as was her husband. She is now carrying on the farm with the assistance of her sons. A portrait of her late husband is shown on another page.

illiam V. Moore, Sr. There is growing class of well-to-do farmers, who have labored hard and diligently for years, and now have wisely concluded to spend the autumn years of their lives in comparative ease and retirement. Among this number is William V. Moore, Sr., who is living in the village of Roseville. New Jersey is his native State, and May t r, 1825, the date of his birth. Abraham H. Moore, his father, also of New Jersey (Hunterdon County), met and married Grace Van Dome, in 1813. They came west to Ohio in 1839, and purchased a 100- acre farm and followed agricultural pursuits there until 1851, when they made another move westward, coming to Illinois and settling in Fulton County. Here, about three miles east of Prairie City, they purchased 160 acres of land. In 1864 Mr. Moore sold this and bought a farm near Bushnell, McDonough County. Here he lived until a few years before his death, when, in 1871, he moved into the city of Bushnell, where he died in 1879, in his 88th year. Mrs. Moore survived her husband and died in Bushnell, Dec. 18, 1885, aged 90 years and four months. William B. remained with his parents until he was 26 years old, assisting them, on the farm and in return was given an opportunity to receive a good common-school education. After leaving home he worked out for one summer, when his ambition led led him to try farming on his own hook. He then rented a farm in Butler Co., Ohio, which he kept for two years. At the end of that time, in 1854, he came

West to Illinois and settled in Fulton County on a rented farm. Here he remained for two years longer, when he found a desirable quarter-section of land on section 3, Point Pleasant Township, in this county, which he was able to purchase. He subsequently got 15 acres of land in Ellison Township, and in 1873 secured 80 acres additional in the same township. He continued to follow agricultural life with satisfactory results until 1876, when he retired from his farm, moving to the village of Roseville. Here he purchased two and a half acres of land, upon which are a good residence and barn, and the family are living comfortably. He is regarded as one of the most substantial men of Warren County. Politically, he has been a Republican.

In 1851, before coming to Illinois, Mr. Moore was married to Miss Temperance Curtis, who is a native of Butler County, Ohio, and daughter of Daniel and Charlotte Curtis. The latter were natives of Maryland, but came to Ohio before their marriage. There they lived until their death, which occurred in 1853 and 1854 respectively.

Mr. Moore's brother, Isaac, who was a member of Co. H, 7th 111. Cavalry, was killed while his regiment was in Missouri, April 2, 1862. Mrs. Van Dyke (his sister) died at her residence in Bushnell, III., one week after the death of her mother.

^aston Morris, deceased. One of the prominent and well-to-do pioneers of Lenox Township of 30 years ago was Easton Morris, who located on section 15. He was born in Wayne County, Southern Illinois, May 26, 1833, and enjoyed but limited advantages for an education, as the days of his boyhood in Illinois afforded very meager opportunities for securing any advanced education. He met a violent death while on a visit to Kansas, being killed ir. Missouri by lightning on the 8th day of Sept. 1866.

Mr. Morris was married in Lenox Township, fan. 25> l85S) to Rebecca A, Butler. She, like her husband, was also born in Illinois, in Warren County, Feb. 28, 1834. She is the mother of three children, - Eva A., Ewing V. and Myron H- Eva is deceased. Mrs. Morris owns 95 acres of excellent tillable land on section 15, in Lenox Township, and is an excellent business lady. She is a member of the Baptist Church. Ewing V. is married and lives in Galesburg, where he practices medicine. The other sop, Myron H., assists his mother in carrying on the home farm.

eonard Hall, a successful and energetic farmer, owning 234 acres of land located on section 31, Greenbush Township, where he resides, and also 50 acres of land in Iowa, was born in Cortland Co., N. Y., Dec. 23, 1819. He came West and located at Monmouth, and worked at that place from September, 1845, until the date of his marriage, March 25, 1852. At this time, Miss Susan B. McMahill became his wife. She was born in Sangamon County, this State, and bore her husband six children, namely : William L., born July 5, 1853; Wyatt, Julys, l&55- Warren, Feb. 8, 1857; Mary M., April 17, 1861 ; Albert P., Jan. 19, 1867; Aleta, March 14, 1872. Wm. L. married a Miss Mollie Dilly, and is now a successful farmer in Jewell Co., Kan. Wyatt married Ann McFetridge. They have two children. Wyatt is also a farmer. Mary M. is the wife of Mr. Wetzvel, a resident of this township.

The father of Mr. Hall, Stephen Hall, was a native of Connecticut, and married Miss Cynthia Leonard. They had eight children, - Lester, Sarah Ann, Polly, Leonard, Theophilus, Coridon. Benjamin, Philomen, four of wnom are deceased, namely: Sarah, Polly, Benjamin and Philomen. Mrs. Hall's father, Mr. McMahill, was born in Kentucky in 1806, and died in 1881. He married Miss Mary Snapp in 1827, She was born in 1806 in Kentucky, and they became the parents of 12 children, viz.: George S., Susan B., Sarah S. Nancy J., Elizabeth, John, Maria A., Kentucky A., William H. H., Pinkney M., Mary and Lucinda. Four of these children are dead.

Mr. Hall, of whom we write, has 235 acres of good farm land, located on section 31, Greenbush Township, under an. advanced, state of cultivation, and also 50 acres of land in Iowa. On his place he has a good residence and barn, the latter being 34 x 40 feet in dimensions. In addition to his farm duties, he is breeding Short-horn cattle and handles English drafi horses. He has served as Road Commissioner for some 12 years, and also School Director of his township. In religion, he belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Cnurch. Politically, he votes with the Republican party.

W. Coghill, engaged as an agriculturist on section 28, Roseville Township, is a prosperous and spirited citizen of Warren County, and a native of Virginia, where he was born Aug. 17, 1830. His parents were Benjamin C. and Millecenl (Ellett) Coghill, also natives of Virginia. The father came to Illinois in -1836, and settled in Warren County, where he pur- -chased land and built a grist and saw mill in the northern part of the county, which is known as Coghill's Mill. It is now located in Henderson County, but when it was built, that district was then a part of Warren County. He died in 1880, in Virginia. He was an apponent of the system of slavery as it then existed in the Southern States, and was a slaveowner at the time he lived in Viiginia. When he made up his mind to go to the free State of Illinois, the question arose in his mind what to do with his slaves. He gave the matter serious thought and made it the subject of earnest prayer. The temptation to sell them and get the money was strong - the conflict between the devil and the man was bitter and fierce, but, upheld by Divine strength in the hour of weakness, the right, as he understood it, prevailed. They were set free, good homes procured foi the older ones and the young sent to Liberia. The Coghills are of English descent, the first member of the family, James Coghill, coming to this country in 1664.

J. W. attended the common district schools during his earlier boyhood, finishing his education at the Galesburg College, at Galesburg. He was 27 years of age before he left home. He was a partner with his father in the milling business from the time he became of age until he left home. On the nth of August, 1858, he was married to Elizabeth Tucker. She was a native of Warren County, and the daughter of James and Abigail (Long) Tucker, who were among the earliest pioneers of the county. Among the early labors of Mr. Coghill was teaching school in Warren and Henderson Counties. We soon find him comfortably located on a farm of 140 acres in Henderson County. Here he lived for about 12 years, when he sold out and went to Washington Co., 111., and purchased a farm. He remained there but four years. In the fall of 1874 he returned to Warren County and found a desirable location on an 80- acre farm on section 20, in Roseville Township. Here he has since lived and is engaged in mixed farming. Politically, Mr. C. is a Democrat, and has served the community as Highway Commissioner and School Director and takes a general interest in the affairs of the township. Both he and his wife are members of the Baptist Church. Of the seven children born to them, Benjamin C. died in his lyth year and a daughter in infancy. Carrie and James are attending school at Upper Alton, at the present time.

tavid M. Hallam, one of Warren County's wide-awake and energetic citizens as well as successful farmers and stock-raisers, residing on section 26, Monmouth Township, is a native of Ohio, having been born in Sabina, Clinton County, that State, Sept. 3, 1837. The father of the gentleman whose name stands at the head of this biographical notice, Samuel Hallam, was the son of a Pennsylvania farmer of English parentage and extraction, the family having their origin in the United States prior to the Revolutionary War, and which consisted of but one branch which came from England. The members of that branch generally followed agricultural pursuits. The grandparents died in Pennsylvania and Ohio respectively. Samuel, father of David M., was one of a family of four children by his father's first marriage, by his second marriage his father having the same number of children. Samuel Hallam was born in Washington Co., Pa., where he lived during the early portion of his life. His education was acquired in the common schools of his native county and his years, prior to the age of majority, were passed on the farm. He left the parental roof-tree when about 2 1 years of age and went to Clinton Co., Ohio, where he made a settlement. At that time Clinton County was very sparsely settled, and there he endured the trials and hardships of a pioneer life. It was in that county that -he was united in marriage with Miss Mary Ann Mills. She was the daughter of a Clinton County farmer who had come to that county and State from Kentucky. After marriage, Samuel purchased 80 acres of land, the same being in heavy timber and located in that part of the State. He went to work vigorously and energetically upon the task of clearing and improving his land, and after he had placed the same under an advanced state of cultivation, he sold it and made another purchase of 160 acres, also uncultivated. He improved that place and by subsequent purchases increased the same to 320 acres, all of which was placed under an advanced state of cultivation, when he disposed of it by sale and in the spring of 1850 came, to this State and located on an 8°-acre farm in this county (a portion of which is at present within the limits of the city of Monmouth), which he rented for one year. When Samuel Hallam started West with his family, he intended to go to Iowa, but on reaching Burlington, that State, the condition of the country, and the action of a portion of the citizens with whom he came in contact, were such as to create a desire on the part of his wife and children to return to Ohio, and thither they started ; but on reaching Monmouth and finding a different country, together with a change in the appearance and actions of the people, they rented the farm before referred to and engaged in farming. The residence into which they moved had been occupied by a man who had committed suicide by cutting his throat with a razor a few days before their arrival there.

In the spring of 1851, Samuel Hallam purchased 240 acres of land in Monmouth Township, on which he moved with his family, and where he resided more or less until his death. His first wife, who was the mother of the subject of this notice, died in December, 1864, and he was again married, to Mrs. Mary McKay, of Monmouth, by whom he had three children, - Harvey W., Anna S. and Maude F. After his second marriage he moved to Monmouth city, in 1873, where he continued to live until his death, which occurred in July, 1879, while he was in his 7pth year. His wife still survives and is residing in Monmouth.

David M. Hallam, the subject of this notice, was the fourth in order of birth of a family of 1 1 children by the first wife of his father. He was about 13 years of age when his parents removed to this county, and his education was acquired in the common schools and at the college at Monmouth, which was then under the presidency of David A. Wallace. When a young man of 18 years, he engaged in teaching, and for 18 winters he followed that profession, working on the farm during the summer season, his teaching being principally in this and Knox Counties.

The marriage of Mr. Hallam took place March 12, 1861, at the residence of the bride's parents, to Miss Mary C. Murphy. She was born in Warren County, March 12, 1842, and was the daughter of a farmer who died when she was a small child, his name being John H. Murphy. Her mother's maiden name was Eliza Moore, who was born in Virginia and was first married in this State. Her second marriage was to Samuel T. Shelton, with whom she is at present residing at Cameron, this county. Mrs. Hallam, wife of David M., attained the age of. maturity under the fostering care of her mother and step-father, with whom she resided until her marriage. She obtained a good education in the common schools and graduated at Abingdon College, Knox County, and for a short time prior to her marriage was engaged in teaching. She has borne her husband seven children, one of whom is deceased. Orline E. is living in Chicago. He was for two years engaged in the Grand Opera House at that place, and also one year at McVicker's, and at present is engaged in the support of McWade, whose reputation throughout the country is so well established that it requires no comment here. Samuel S. resides at home and is engaged in the study of law, preparatory to the practice of that profession; Clinnie M. resides at home, as likewise do Frank M., Minnie M. and George M. Charles M. is deceased.

After the marriage of Mr. Hallam, he resided alternately in this and Knox Counties until 1873, when he abandoned the profession of teaching and settled on his farm of 183 acres in Monmouth Township and engaged in the vocation of farming. His place is in a high state of cultivation, and in his vocation as a farmer Mr. Hallam is meeting with that success which energy and perseverance, coupled with good judgment, are sure to bring. He and his wife are members of the Christian Church, of which denomination Mr. Hallam is Deacon. He was for 20 years Superintendent of the Sunday-school, but recently resigned that position.

on. Henry M. Lewis, one of the landholders of Berwick Township and a representative citizen of Warren County, residing upon section 19, Berwick Township, was born in Basking Ridge, N. J.,Feb. 21, 1824, the son of Eliphalet C. Lewis, a native of New Jersey, having been born in that State May n, 1799. He >< came to Illinois in 1837 and two years later came to this county from Sangamon County, and located in Berwick Township, where he purchased a patent title to the northeast quarterof section 20. He immediately went to work to improve his land, and at the same time economized and added to his original purchase until he became the owner of 750 acres in the county.

He was married to Mary Ann Mills, Nov. 21, 1823. She was also born in New Jersey, the date of her birth being July 23, 1806. She bore her husband five children, namely: Henry M., Feb. 21, 1824; Phebe A., July 9, 1826; Mary A., in July, 1838; Susan E., in October, 1841, and Thomas P. in 1843, all of whom are yet living. The father died in 1868, aged 69 years, and his widow still survives and is living in this county, aged 79 years, and is enjoying good health.

Henry M. Lewis, of whom we write, formed a matrimonial alliance, Oct. 18, 1849, w'tn Miss Jane Carr, the Rev. Young officiating. She was born Jan. 22, 1827, in Perry Co., Ind., and came with her parents, Absalom and Sarah Carr, to this State, in 1840. Mr. Carr was born in 1801, in Breckinridge Co., Ky.,and married Miss Sarah Claycomb in 1824. She was a native of Kentucky also, and was born there in 1802. Her demise occurred in 1868, in this county, and that of her husband July 4, 1879. Of their union nine children were born, namely : Eli, Jane, James, Lucy, Lewis, Thomas, Hannah, Malinda and William H. Mr. and Mrs. Lewis have had born to them nine children, eight of whom survive, viz.: Norvel, born July 12, 1850; Mary, Nov. 29, 1852; Jedediah, Nov. 13, 1854; Henry, Dec. 6, 1856; Emery, March 31, r858; Sarah, March 9, 1862; Phebe L., Aug. 13, 1864; Effie J., March 23, 1867; Edwin C., Oct. 14, 1873. Henry is deceased, his death occurring March 14, 1857. Norvel is married and is engaged in farming in Nebraska. He has one child. Mary is the wife of John W. Miller, of this county, and the mother of five children. Emery married Miss Nettie Mann and resides in this county. Sarah is the wife of Geo. B. Richmond and lives near Sedalia, Mo.

Mr. Lewis is the owner 895 acres of land in Berwick Township, in pasture and under cultivation, and on his farm has a fine residence, together with good ' barns and necessary outbuildings, which are shown in the view on page 284. In addition to carrying on general farming he is also engaged in dealing in " stock. He has taken a prominent part in the affairs of his township and the county as well. He has been Supervisor of his township for 13 years, and was elected to represent the counties of Warren and McDonough in the State Legislature during its 3rst session. He was a member of the committees on Agriculture, Militia and Labor, and a busy member too, and represented those who gave him their suffrages in an able manner, and with credit to himself and satisfaction to his constituency. He has also held various minor offices within the gift of the people. In politics, he is a Democrat.

Toseph L. Young, a farmer residing on section 12, Lenox Township, and of which he is Township Clerk, is a son of John and Elizabeth (Bishop) Young, natives of Pennsylvania and Maryland respectively. After their marriage the parents settled in Ohio, where the father died, Sept. 2, [851. In 1865 the mother came to this county with her children. The children by her marriage with Mr. Young were seven in number, named Hannah, John L., Jacob, George, Abraham N., Joseph L. and Elizabeth A.

In writing the biography of Joseph L. Young, we record his birth as May 29, 1840, and the place of his nativity Crawford County Ohio. His education was not neglected in his early years, and on attaining the age of manhood he was for eight y-iars occupied in teaching school in Ohio, and continued to reside in his native State until 1865, when he accompanied his mother and the remaining children of the family to this county, locating with them in Lenox Township, where he has since resided. He is the owner of 30 acres of tillable land and is a gentleman of considerable public prominence in his township. In his agricultural pursuits he is meeting with fair success, and his accumulations have been acquired solely through his own push and energy.

The marriage of Mr. Young took place in Monmouth, Dec. 32, 1868, at which time the accomplish- . ed daughter of John Wonderly, Miss Mary E. Won- ,derly, became his wife. Her father's sketch is given in another part of this ALBUM. She was born in Cumberland Co., Pa., Sept. 26, 1845, and has borne her husband one child, Bessie M. Mr. Young has held the office of Township Clerk for six years, and is still the incumbent of that position. He also held the office of Township Collector four years, Justice of the Peace three years, and School Trustee three years, and in politics is a Democrat.

Charles O. Bradshaw, publisher and proprietor of the Kirkwuod Leader, was born in Sheffield, Bureau Co., this State, Dec. 30, 1856. The parents of Mr. Bradshaw of this notice, J. F. and Mary M. Bradshaw, are at present residing in Kirkwood. His father is a native of Kentucky, and was born in that Slate March 8, 1832, and at present is engaged in the furniture business at the place mentioned. The mother's maiden name was Smith, and she was born in Fulton County, this State, May 20, 1836.

The gentleman whose name stands at the head of this biographical notice, came to Kirkwood with his parents in the fall of 1865. Here he received a common-school education, at the completion of which he decided to make journalism his lifes pursuit. After several years experience as a local reporter and correspondent, on Jan. ist, 1882, he purchased a half interest in the Kirkwood Leader, which had been established a few months previous. He took editorial charge of the paper, and in January, 1885, became sole proprietor of the same. The paper is at present an eight column folio, independent in politics, and is issued at the small subscription price of $1.50 a year. From being a dubious venture at the start it has come to be considered one of the permanent institutions of the county. A good job printing office is run in connection with the paper, and Mr. Bradshaw is meeting with that success which strict attention to business, push, tact and energy are sure to bring.

ames A. McClannahan is one of the lead- £ ing physicians of the county, and resides at the village of Kirkwood. In 1854, when the fertile prairies of Warren County were but partly settled, Mr. Thomas McClannahan with his young wife and small family came from Ohio and located upon 80 acres of land in Hale Township. Here he has since lived, but increased his acreage to 240 acres and has grown to be one of the prominent citizens of the county and for many years has served the people as County Surveyor. He oversees his farm and during the winter teaches school. Before leaving Ohio he met and married Miss Jane Martin, who like himself was a native of the Buckeye State. Before they decided to leave Ohio, theireldest son, James M., was born to them, the date of his birth being March 26, 1850. Besides this son they had born to them seven other children. Dr. McClannahan received a good English education, attending both the common schools and the Academy at Monmouth. Until he reached his majority he remained on the home farm, assistingin its cultivation during the time not spent at school. In

1 87 i he commenced the study of medicine with Dr. J. P. Clannahan, of Norwood, Mercer County, Illinois, and for three years closely applied himself to the study of his profession. He attended the Chicago Medical College and from it graduated in 1874, since which time he has been actively engaged in the practice of medicine. He first located at Berwick, this county, where he practiced with satisfactory success for four years, when he came to Kirkwood. Here he has built up a fine and lucrative practice and has a residence, with an office connected, and is recognized as one of the representative men of the village.

Dr. McClannahan and Miss Anna McClung were married Sept. 20, 1875. Miss McClung was born in Ohio, and is a daughter of Charles and Nancy McClung, of that State. Two children, both boys, have been born to them, - Ralph, born Oct. 22, 1876, and Harold, born Sept. 25, 1872. The Doctor is a Republican, and, with his wife, belongs to the Presbyterian Church. He is a member of the Board of Health and has held most of the city offices.

B. Boyd, a farmer on section 2, Point Pleasant Township, is the oldest son of Thomas H. and Margaret (Jones) Boyd, who were pioneers of the township and county where their children are now identified with the business community. He was born in Greene Co., Ind., Dec. 12, 1839, and was in the seventh year of his age when the household came to Warren County. He has resided here ever since and was educated in the schools of the township. He was also reared to the calling of a farmer, which he has pursued since the commencement of his active life.

He resided with his parents until his marriage to Harriet Conklin. which took place Sept. 19, 1861. Mrs. Boyd was born in Clatmont Co., Ohio. After their marriage, they located on the farm on which they have since lived. It is situated on the southeast quarter of section 2. The children of the household are named Elgie B.

Stem, a retired fanner and one of Illinois' early pioneers, is a resident of Roseville Village, this county, having been bom in Mercer Co., Pa., Jan. 13, 1829. His parents were Frederick and Sarah (Harris) Stem, natives respectively of Westmoreland and Fayette Counties, Pa. In 1851 they came to the State of Illinois, and located on section 28, this county, where they purchased a i6o-acre tract of land and immediately began to cultivate and improve the same. Their efforts were fully rewarded, and they had the gratification of seeing their land developed to that high state of excellence which deservedly caused it to take rank among the most valuable in Warren County. They became the parents of 13 children, and died amidst the comforts of their peaceful homestead.

David Stem, the gentleman whose name stands at the head of this biographical notice, remained the companion of his parents until he reached his 25th year, in the meantime assisting in the duties of the farm and alternated his labors thereon by attendance at the district schools in the acquirement of an English education. He engaged in farming for himself in the year 1854, purchased a tract of 80 acres of land and began actively and energetically in the improvement and cultivation of the same, making his home there for 20 years and interesting himself in general farming. He then purchased, at different times, land in the village of Roseville until he now is the owner of 17 lots, containing 14 acres at the present time being a resident on the same.

Aug. 16, 1854, was the date of one of the most important events in the life of Mr. David Stem, it being his marriage to Miss Sarah Adkinson. She is a native of Kentucky, who came with her parents to Illinois when she was a babe and settled in Warren County Her parents were Pleasant and Fanny Adkinson, and were among the earliest settlers here, drawing the first stick of timber in what is now called Monmouth. Of the union of Mr. and Mrs. Stem four children have been born, only two of whom are living - Ida and Fatten. The former married William Johnson, a resident of Ppint Pleasant Township, and a farmer. One daughter - Marilla, blesses their home.

Mr. Stem and his wife are members of the Baptist Church of Roseville village and he is considered one of the solid and substantial men of Warren County. Politically, he affiiliates with the Republican party.

: W. McCurdy, a well known and prosperous agriculturist, residing on section 20, Roseville Township, was born near Macomb, McDonough Co., this State, Oct. 12, 1842, and is the son of James and Hannah (Herring) McCurdy, natives of the Keystone I State. On the i6th of July, in the year 1839, Mr. i James McCurdy, the father of the gentleman of this 7 narrative, was united in marriage with his present wife, the mother of R. W. McCurdy. In 1839, they I came to Illinois and settled in McDonough County, remaining in the same until 1847, an<^ then moved to Ellison Township, Warren County, and about four years later again removed, this time going to Fulton County. At the latter place the father made a purchase of 80 acres of land, and afterward added to his original acreage by a purchase of a 160 acre tract. Not being perfectly satisfied, he thought he would try another change, and we next find him located in Roseville Township, Warren County, where he came in 1865. He purchased r2O acres of land located on section 20, and entered energetically and vigorously upon the task of its improvement, and made this his home for ten years, when he moved into Roseville village and retired from the active labors of life.

R. W. McCurdy remained at home until he attained the age of 23 years, in the meantime receiving the advantages afforded by the district schools and in his leisure moments assisting his parents in the duties of the farm. After leaving home he rented a farm for two years, it being located about a mile and a half from Roseville village. In 1867, he made a purchase of an 8o-acre tract in Tompkins Township, and upon this he worked hard and arduously for seven years, putting the same in an advanced state of cultivation, when he sold it, and purchased the property where he now resides, being 120 acres. He is engaged in the stock business quite extensively and is meeting with success in his chosen vocation. Besides his present homestead he is the proprietor of 80 acres of land in Ellison Township.

Miss Lydia Pusey, a native of Maryland, and daughter of William and Ann (Watson) Pusey, was the lady chosen by Mr. R. W. McCurdy to be his companion through life. Their married life has been replete with domestic happiness and they are now the ptoud parents of six children, namely : Louella J., William B., Charles W., Melvin J., Robert R. and Ralph E. Mrs. McCurdy 's parents were natives of Delaware and Maryland respectively, and in 1850 the father, Mr. Pussy, came to Cuba, Fulton County, this State, the mother having died in Clear Spring, Maryland, Feb. 6, 1849.

Politically, Mr. McCurdy is a Democrat, and with his wife belongs to the Methodist Protestant Church. Socially, Mr. McCurdy is a member of the Select Knights and the A. O. U. W., and is regarded as a liberal, representative gentleman of Warren County, always willing to help build and improve schools, churches, etc., and lends a helping hand to all worthy objects.

homas A. Weakley, a successful farmer of Lenox Township, residing upon section 13, comes of old Pennsylvania " stock," his parents, James and Priscilla (Foulk) Weakley, having been natives of that State. The elder Weakley died in his native State. His widow, the mother of Mr. Weakley of this notice, came to Warren County to live with her son, Thomas, and died in Lenox Township in 1861. The gentleman whose name appears at the beginning of this biographical notice, was born in Cumberland Co., Pa., Nov. n, 1826. He received a good education in his native State, the rudimentary portion thereof being attained at the common schools, which was supplemented by an attendance at the seminary at Kennet

Square, in Chester County, that State. In fact the early life of Mr. Weakley, prior to his attaining his majority, was passed alternately upon the farm and in attendance at school. He was also engaged in early manhood in the dry-goods business, which he followed for about four years in Cumberland County. Hoping to better his financial condition in life, at least to procure a home for himself and family, in 1854 he came to this county, at first locating in Monmouth Township. He lived there for 12 years, following the occupation of an agriculturist, when he removed to Lenox Township, where he has resided until the present writing. He owns 1 25 acres in that township, every acre of which is good tillable land, and in his chosen vocation in life, is meeting with that success which energy and perseverance insure. A view of his home place is shown on page 284.

Mr. Weakley was united in marriage with Miss Lovinia Kaufman, Sept. 19, 1850. Mrs. W. was born in Cumberland Co., Pa., Feb. 18, 1822, and [ was of highly respected and well-to-do parents of that county. Mr. and Mrs. Weakley have become the parents of seven children, two of whom are deceased. The living are: Spangler K., Anna J., Harriet G., Willis F. and Emma L. The deceased are Jane M. and Priscilla F. Anna J. is the wife of Daniel Wonderly, a resident of Henderson County, this State. Harriet G. married Addison Nesbitt and resides in Lenox Township. The remaining children reside at home. In politics Mr. Weakley is identified with the Democratic party. Mrs. Weakley and their two eldest daughters are members of the Presbyterian Church.

'. ohn H. Murdock, a retired farmer residing at Berwick, was born in Greene Co., Pa., in 1814. He is a son of John Murdock, who was married to Miss Margaret Hufty, and by her had nine children, - Sarah, Mary, Jane, James, Hofty, Eliza, John H., Daniel and William,

John H. formed a matrimonial alliance with Miss Frances Milligan, Nov. 31, 1837. She was born Sept. 15, 1815, in Greene Co., Pa., and has borne

Mr. Murdock has an acre of ground within the corporate limits of the village of Berwick, upon which is a good dwelling, where he resides retired from the active labors of life. He and his wife are members of the Baptist Church, as are likewise all his children except one. Mr. Murdock, although a gentleman not seeking office, has held some of the minor offices of his township, among which are Road Commissioner and School Director.

ames T. Gilmore, who was one of the earliest pioneers of Warren County, and one of the very few yet living who came as early as 1833, is the third son of Col. Robert and Maria (Pilgrim) Gilmore. He is in every sense a pioneer of the county, arriving here June 13, 1833, and here he was reared and was educated and has since lived. He was born in Jefferson Co., Ohio, June 5, 1823. His father was born in Chester Co., Pa., Feb. 2, 1783, and grew to manhood in his native county. He learned the trade of a tanner, serving an apprenticeship after he was 21 years of age. After acquiring an understanding of his business, he went to Ohio, and there embarked in the tannery business extensively, especially for that period. He located at Cross Creek, in Jefferson County, and carried on the business until the outbreak of the second war with Great Britain. He then enlisted and was made a Colonel of a regiment. He served under Harrison and was one of his staff officers. He was in the military service as long as there was any need of his assistance, and after the close of the contest he returned to his business. He was also the owner of a farm, which he put into the management of a renter. In 1833, he sold all his interests in the Buckeye State and started for IHU npis. His family then consisted of himself, his wife and nine children. They traveled on the rivers, which at that period were the principal means of I transfer to the West. One member of the family was stricken with the cholera, which was prevalent I in that year, but the attack did not prove fatal. They landed at Oquawka on the i3th of June, a day made memorable by the trial of the Indians who murdered William Martin the previous year. The eldest son of the family, Ephraim, started for Warren County on foot, and obtained a team, which consisted of three yokes of oxen and a wagon, and with its aid the family and household belongings were transported to Warren County. The father took a claim on section 25 of township 12, range 2, or what is now Spring Grove Township. He held his claim until the land came into market, when he made the customary effort to " prove up;" but failing to do so and to secure a clear title, he sold his right, and later bought the southwest quarter of section 24, in the same township. While on -the first claim he built a log house of a good type, then called a double -house. It was covered with split clapboards and had a puncheon floor. The chimney was built on the outside of the dwelling and was made of dirt and sticks. After buying the second place, he built a similar structure upon that, and made shingles for the roof and puncheon for the floor. He fenced and otherwise improved more than half the land of the claim and built a stable and a corn-crib. He was a resident on that place until his death, which occurred July 9, 1857. He was twice married. His fir^t wife was Elizabeth Collins, who became the mother of six children, as follows: Ephraim, John, Arabella, Ann, Joseph ('., and one who died in infancy. Mrs. Gilmore died about the year 1821 or 1822. Col. Gilmore 's second wife was Maria Pilgrim, and the record of their children is as follows : The eldest two died in infancy, James T. (our subject), then Thomas, Elizabeth C., Lawrence H., Rachel, George W., Benjamin Franklin and Robert, making 16 children born to Col. Gilmore. His second wife was born in Germany and came to America in her childhood. She died Aug. 20, 1840. Ephraim was for many years a resident of Mercer County, and was the first County Clerk of that county, and also County Surveyor for eight or ten years. He afterwards started into the banking business. In 7883 he went to Paoli, Kan. John died in Ohio; Arabella married Theodore Jennings and they live in Ford Co , 111. ; Ann is the wife of John Ritchie, of Harrison Co, Ohio; Joseph G. lives in Aledo, Mercer County ; James T. and Thomas are the next in order of birth ; Elizabeth C. married Sidney Lafferty, of Mercer County; Lawrence H. ; Rachel is the wife of John Armstrong, of the same township of which her parents were pioneers ; B. Franklin resides in Hopkins, Mo. ; Robert died in Kansas

Mr. Giluure of this sketch was ten years old when he came with his parents to Illinois, and he grew to the estate of manhood in Warren County. He was reared under all the influences of the pioneer period and was a pupil in the pioneer log school-house. At the age of 25 he commenced his life as an independent man of business, and purchased the farm on which he now lives. It had been improved to some extent and included a double log house, a stable and 30 acres of broken farming land. There were 410 acres that had pot been under the plow, and the new proprietor made all possible haste to render his property a profitable investment. He erected a good class of buildings, which are a credit and an ornament to the farm, and of which a view is given in these pages. Mr. Gilmore is the owner of 330 acres in Warren County and 160 acres in Mercer County. The entire amount of land is in cultivation.

Oct. 26, 1848, his marriage to Mary C. Lair was was celebrated. She was born in Warren Co., Ky., Oct. 29, 1827. She was the daughter of William and Sarah (Wallace) Lair. Her father was a native of Warren Co., Ky., and is said to have been the first white child born in that county. The date of his birth was April 3. 1796. His parents were consequently among the earliest pioneers of Kentucky. His wife, the mother of Mrs. Gilmore, was also a. native of Warren Co., Ky. She was born May 8, 1808, and is of Scotch-Irish parentage. Her husband was of German descent. They were married in 1826, and removed to Illinois in 1832, and settled on a tract of land now embraced in Kelly Township, this county, where they improved a farm and lived respected and honored members of society. They had born to them a family of 73 children, six of whom are yet living. Mr. Lair died April 7, 1873. Politically, he was a Democrat, and in his religious connections was a member of the Christian Church. His wjdo\v survive? him, and resides with he.r son

Of the five children of whom Mr. and Mrs. Gilmore became the parents, three are now living: Anna is married to John M. I rey, of Spring Grove Township; Ella is the wife of Oliver Stoner : they reside in Mercer County; George W. (married to Mary A. McKelvey) is assisting his father in working the home farm. The mother died March 3, -(Sir. Mirch 23, 1882, Mr. Gilmore was married to Susan, widow of George Leonard. She was born in Pennsylvania, and was there married to her first husband Feb. 21, 1850. In 1855, they came to Spring Grove Township, where, in March, 1861, Mr. Leonard died. She had eight children by her first husband, six of whom are still living. Silas is a resident of this township; Bertie resides in Alexis; Stewart is a citizen of Monmouth ; Ida ; Alice lives in Stephenson Co., I). T. ; Mary is the youngest.

Mr. Gilmore is a Democrat in political persuasion, and both himself and wife are members of the Christian Church. He is looked upon by his many friends as being one of the best men who ever honored Warren County with their presence.

foseph Martin, ex-President of the First I?- National Bank at Monmouth, a gentleman of more than ordinary business ability, retired from the active labors of life on u competency acquired by individual effort and good judgment, coupled with economy and perseverance, resides on section 28, Monmouth Township, near the limits of the city of that name. He was born in '.he North of Ireland, Aug. 15, 1816, and is of Scotch-Irish extraction His father, William Martin, was a native of the Emerald Isle, and resided there until his death, engaged in the vocation of farming. His death occurred about 1845. His wife, Mary Forbes, was born in the North of Ireland and was likewise of Scotch- Irish extraction, and also died in her native country.

next to the youngest in order of birth of a family of six children, ard he and a brother, James, (who is residing in Page County, Iowa, where he is engaged in farming and cattle raising) are the only survivors. Joseph Martin resided with his parents on his native Isle until he reached the age of 19 years, when he was united in marriage to Miss lane Groves, a daughter of Joseph and Jane Groves. Soon after they were weded, they crossed the briny waters and located in the United States, the date thereof being 1834. His first location was in New Castle, Lawranee Co., Pa., where after residing for a short time, he moved to Mercer Co., Pa., where he purchased land and for 12 years followed agricultural pursuits. Leaving Pennsylvania he came to Galena, this State, and in the neighborhood of that place purchased 200 acres of land, whLh had been partly worked for lead. He re-opened the mines and succeeded in striki.ig an exceedingly rich vein, which yielded him about $25,000. He continued to operate his mines in that vicinity for about nine years, until r86o, when, in the fall, he came to this county and purchased 160 acres of partly improved land, in Tompkins Township, where he operated only a short time; then rented his land and moved to Monmouth with a view to educating his children. He afterward sold his farm in Tompkins township and purchased other property and cleared $8,000. His success as a speculator has been more than ordinary. In the fall of 1863, he with others, established the First National Bank at Monmouth, with a capital of $50,000, which was later increased to $75,000. The institution at times represented a capital of $500,000, and was doing a good and increasing business until its recent failure. Mr. Martin was a stock holder for about 20 years, and was elected President of the institution sometime previous to its failure, but no word of censure has ever been heard against Mr. Martin on account of the disaster to the bank, it being too well known by every depositor and by the citizens of Warren County, who was the cause of its failure. Mr. Martin has been actively engaged in many financial operations, and at present is the proprietor of a 200 acre farm in Page Co., Iowa, which is under an advanced state of cultivation. He owns 22 acres on which he at present resides, and also a large brick store-house, of which the Y. M. C. A. occupy the second story.

in 1871. He was again married in that city to Mrs. Jennie Patton, nee Lee, widow of Rev. Samuel Patton, of Detroit, and daughter of Judge Thomas and Nancy (Wilson) Lee, natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio respectively, of American parentage and Scotch descent. She was born in Cadiz, Ohio, Oct. 5, 1830. Her father was formerly a farmer by occupation, but later in life engaged in the business of a tanner, and still later was connected with politics, being almost continuously the incumbent of an official position thereafter until his death, which occurred in Cadiz, Ohio, in 1853, during his 57th year. Her mother died Sept. 20, 1885, at the venerable age of 87 years. Mrs. Martin has borne her husband one child, - Nannie L., born June 12, 1872. Seven children were born to Mr. Martin by his first union, - William W., is married and lives in Salem, Oregon, the maiden name of his wife being Belle Myers ; James is also married and is likewise a resident of Salem, Oregon; the other five children are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Martin are members of the United Presbyterian Church at Monmouth, to the building of which Mr. ; Martin contributed $2,000. He is present trustee and member of the session.

In politics he is a staunch supporter of the principles of the Republican parly, having always opposed the institution of slavery, and during the late Civil War was a strong and unswerving Union man.

ienjamin P. Matteson, a farmer residing on section 30, Floyd Township, was born in Oneida Co., N. Y., Feb. 10, 1836, and came to this State in 1838 with his parents. The father of Mr. Matteson (Myron Matteson) was born in New York, in 1810, and died in 1849, in this county, whither he removed and settled in Floyd Township. He married Maria Davis, in 1830. She was born in 1808, in Oneida County, New York, and is still living. Of their union six children were born, - Geraldine, Juliet, Benjamin P., Christian, Joann and Myron D.

Feb. 9, 1807, in Greene County, Pa., and who came to this State in 1851, and located in this county. He married Miss Fannie Milligan, Nov. 14, 1830. She was born Oct. 15, 1810, in Pennsylvania, and bore her husband n children, four of whom are deceased. The names of the children are: Margaret, Jonas, Mary, Daniel, John, George, Millie, Hiram, Allen, Armenia and Edgar.

Mr. and Mrs. Matteson of this notice are the parents of two children, - Mabel, born Dec. 26, 1862, and Dora, March 31, 1864. The former is the wife of Dr. William McClannahan, a prominent physician of West Jersey, Stark Co., 111. They have one son. Miss Dora still resides with her parents.

Mr. Matteson is the proprietor of 80 acres of well improved land, located on section 30, Floyd Township. He has a fine residence on his place, 22 x 35 feet in dimensions, with a barn, 32x36 feet. His cattle are of a high grade and his place presents an appearance to the passer-by indicative of that energy which its proprietor possesses. Mr. Matteson is a member of the Anti-Horse-Thief Society. In religion, he and his wife are members of the Baptist Church, of which denomination he is a Deacon. In politics, he affiliates with the Republican party, and during the late war was a strong Union man.

'ohn D. G-rigg, proprietor of 130 acres of agricultural land under an advanced state of cultivation, located on section 32, Swan Township, is a native of Kentucky, and was there born May 26, 1841. He came to this State in 1864 with his parents, and for six years resided with them in McDonough County.

The father of John D., Joseph W. Grigg, was born in 1802, in Virginia, his parents moving to Kentucky when he was but a lad. He there grew to manhood, receiving such education as was to be acquired in the district school, and married Miss Delila Mc- Cullough. Sept. 5, 1822. She was born in Virginia in 1806, and died in this State in 1877. Joseph W., the father, is still living with his son (John D., subject of this notice), at the venerable age of 83 years.

1874, with Miss Anna B. Cline. This estimable lady, who by her well cultivated intellect, consistent course in life as a member of the Methodist Church and amiable qualities in general, had won the esteem of all who knew her, died July *6, 1875, in the 24th year of her age (having been born Jan. 3, 1852), leaving an only child, - Joseph H., born June n, 1875, - who followed the mother to the eternal home on the 25th of August of the same year (1875).

Mr. Grigg formed a second matrimonial alliance, Oct. 30, 1877, with Miss Florence C. Shoop. She was born Nov. 4, 1855, and is the daughter of W. W. Shoop, a native of Maryland, who at present resides in McDonough County. Mr. and Mrs. Grigg have three children, namely : Iva L., born Aug. 19, 1878; Mina L., Dec. 6, 1880; Flora P., Oct. 31, 1884. Mr. Grigg has two brothers and two sisters living, - James W. and R. C., Susan and America, and two sisters, Sally and Minerva, deceased. Mrs. Grigg has four sisters and five brothers, namely: Lydia A., William H., Alva, Emma Catharine, Freddie, George E. and Maggie M., and Mary E. and John W., deceased.

Mr. Grigg is pleasantly situated on his home farm of 130 acres on section 32, Swan Township, all of which is under an advanced state of cultivation. He is breeding high grades of Short-horn cattle, and handles the Poland China hogs. He has a pair of mares on his place weighing 1,500 pounds each.

In politics Mr. Grigg votes with the Republican party. He was reared under the influences of the Methodist Church, and although not a member of that denomination, in his religious principles he is inclined towards their doctrines.

J. Sisson, an energetic representative of the agricultural class of Warren County, residing upon section 28, Swan Township, was born Sept. 5, 1828, in Rensselaerville, Albany Co., N. Y. He is a son of Joseph Sissen, a native of Rock Island, but who became a resident of New York State when one year old.

1789. They emigrated to Illinois in 1837 and located in Swan Township, Warren County, where the husband, and father of this notice, died June 12, 1851. The wife and mother survived him until June, 1882, when she passed to the land of the hereafter. Of their union ten children were born, namely: Asahel B., Cyrus, Emeline, Rufus, Ann, Augustine W., Marcus F., Andrew J., Mary E. and Martin V. His father was a pioneer settler in this county, a farmer by occupation and one of the respected and honored citizens of the community in which he resided and died.

Andrew J. Sisson was united in marriage with Miss Nancy Jane McMahill, Jan. 19, 1854. Of their union there was no issue, but they have raised to manhood and womanhood, two children, - Nellie M. Brooks, who, when she came under their care, was three years old. She was born in 1859, received a good education at the hands of Mr. and Mrs. Sisson, and resided with them until her marriage to Joseph Thorn, in January, 1885. They reside on a farm in Swan Township. The name of their other adopted child is William H. Canfield, born Feb. 8, 1858, who also received a liberal education at the hands of Mr. and Mrs. Sisson, and became the head of family, May 5, 1881, by marriage with Miss Alice Watson. At present he is a farmer in Seward Co., Neb.

The father of Mrs. Sisson, Mr. William McMahill, was born in Bourbon Co., Ky., in 1806. He was of Scotch-Irish ancestry, his ancestors settling in Virginia and from there moved to Kentucky. Mr. Mc- Mahill emigrated to Illinois, in 1829; was married to Miss Mary Snapp in 1828. His wife was born in 1806, in Nicholas Co., Ky.,and died Aug. 31, 1877. Their union was blessed with the birth of 12 children, whom they named George, Susan, Sarah, Nancy Jane, Elizabeth, John, Ann Maria, Kentucky America, William H., Pinckney, Mary E., and Lucinda, four of whom are deceased, namely : Elizabeth, Mary, Lucinda and Ky America.

Mr. Sisson, of whom we write, is pleasantly located with his family on his fine farm of 250 acres, on section 28, Swan Township, and has the entire place improved. In 1884, he erected a fine residence on his farm, 33 X36 feet in dimensions and two story with basement. His house is one of the best, if not the best, in Swan Township, and its inside appearance is almost as fine as its outside, it being fur- nished in the best possible manner, with all necessary apparatus for lightening the labors of the female portion of the household. He is engaged in general farming and he and his wife are both members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, Mr. Sisson being Superintendent of the Sunday-school. In politics, he is independent. A view of his homestead appears in this volume.

eorge Gossett, retired farmer, enjoying the sunset of his life in ease and comfort at Roseville, was born in Randolph Co., N. C., March 31, 1807, his parents being Williamson and Rebecca (Stalker) Gossett, natives of North Carolina and of English descent. The parents of Mr. Gossett came to Indiana in 1815, the father purchased land in that State, on which he located and was laboriously occupied in its cultivation until he became too old to follow the active labors of life, when he retired, and continued to reside there until his death, which occurred in 1863.

George Gossett received a good education in the common schools of his native county, and worked on his father's farm until he was 19 years old. He then worked out by the month and continued to labor in that manner until he attained the age of 23 years. At that age in life he rented a farm on shares, but as he was poor he was unable to buy a team and he cultivated his land by working for others and receiving compensation therefor by their loaning him a team. Under these trying circumstances he continued to cultivate rented land for two years, when, by the closest economy he was enable to buy a team.

He continued to save his earnings until 1850, when he had accumulated sufficient to purchase a farm of 74 acres in Indiana, whither his parents had removed. He raised two crops on this land, then sold it, making $600 by the sale.

In 1852, Mr. Gossett came to Pike County, this State, where he cultivated rented land for one year. In February, 1854, he came to this county, where he had previously purchased 152 acres of land on section 4 Swan Township, and subsequently added 80 acres to the same, making in all 232 acres. He located on this land and worked the same for 13 years, and then, in 1867, came to Roseville, purchased property and erected a residence thereon, and then sold the same to William Moore. He then built on the corner of Main and Chestnut Streets, where he has continued to reside since 1876. Mr. Gossett rents his farm and at present is living a retired life, enjoying the accumulations which a life of energetic effort and economy have brought him.

Mr. Gossett was married in January, 1829, to Miss Vurlinder T. Turnbull, a native of Virginia, and the daughter of John and Mary P. (Tannihill) Turnbull, natives of Maryland and Virginia respectively, and of Scotch descent. The issue of their union is six children, only two of whom survive, - Rebecca R. Davis and William T. Gossett. The latter is the present postmaster at Roseville. In politics Mr. Gossett is a staunch Republican. He and his wife are members of the M. E. Church and have been since 1839, of which denomination, Mr. Gossett is trustee and has been steward and class leader. - Mr. and Mr. Gossett on the first day of January, 1879, celebrated their golden wedding, having passed 50 years of wedded life together. On that occasion - they received many valuable presents from their - host of relatives and friends.

athaniel Kidder, a farmer residing on section 28, Swan Township, was born in this county, July 3t, 1845, and is a son of Larnard Kidder, a native of Mansfield, Conn., where he was born in 1806. The father came to Illinois about 1837, and located in Swan Township, where he died Sept. 24, 1864. He was married to Miss Mary Ann Hoisington, March 32, 1837. She was born April 5, 1809, in Windsor, Vt., and of her union with Mr. Kidder, seven children were born, - Almon, Feb. 27, 1838; William O., Aug. 13, 1839; Henry H., May 25, 1841 ; Benjamin H., April 7, 1843; Nathaniel, July 31, 1845; Olive M., July 3, 1847, and Eliza A., Aug. 5, 1849.

The grandparents of Mr. Kidder, of this notice, Abishi and Lucinda (Hastings) Hoisington, on his mother's side. His grandfather was born in 1769, and his grandmother, in 1771, The former died March 16, 1859, and the latter Sept. 13, 1825, and of their union nine children were born, - Betsey, Olive, Sabrina, Harriet, Maria, John, Mary Ann, Eleanor D., and William W.

Mr. Kidder is one of the substantial farmers and land owners in Swan Township, owing 156 acres. He has a fine residence on his place, two stories in height, erected in 1882. The first residence built on this site was 23 years ago.

He is engaged, in addition to the cultivation of his land, in the raising of high grade short-horn cattle, - and in his vocation as an agriculturist is one of the leading representatives, not only in Swan Township, but in Warren County. Mr. Kidder entered the service in the war for the Union, joining Co. C, i28th 111. Vol. Inf , May 7, 1864. He was on guard duty at Ft. Leavenworth, Kan., and there remained five and a half months, when, Oct. 18, 1864, he was mustered out at Springfield and honorably discharged.

I lien S. Phillips, one of the large land-owners of Swan Township, is an energetic successful farmer of Warren Co., residing upon section 33, who was born in Saratoga Springs, N. Y., Jan. to, 1832. He is the son of Scuiber Phillips, born in Greenbu&h, N. Y., Aug. 16, 1802, and who died June 16, 1873. He was married to Miss Sophronia Davis, Sept. 19, 1822, in New York. She was born Nov. 16, 1803, in Oriskany Falls, Oneida Co., N. Y., and is still living in that State. Their children were six in number, - John N., Allen S., Cordelia J., Melissa D., Alonzo, James H., the latter dying in infancy.

Allen S Phillips, subject of this notice, was united in marriage with Miss Anna M. McMahill, Jan. 26, 1868, Rev. M. Sperlock, of the Methodist Episcopal Church, officiating. Of their union, six children have been born, one of whom is deceased: Emma, born March 14, 1870, and died May 14, 1877 ; Mary S., born March 22, 1872; Wilbur, Nov. 29, 1875; Burtis, Sept. i, 1877; Windle, Nov. 21, i88r; and Guy E., Aug. n, 1884. The father of Mrs. Phillips, William McMahill, was born Nov. 26, 1806, in Kentucky, and died June 7, 1881, in this State. He was married to Miss Mary Snappin 1828. She was born Feb. 22, 1806, and died Aug. 31, 1877. Of their union 12 children were born, viz.: George, Susan, Sarah, Nancy Jane, Elizabeth, John, Ann M., America Ky., William H., Pinkney, Mary E. and Lucinda A. The deceased-are Elizabeth, America, Mary and Lucinda.

Mr. Phillips with his family are pleasantly situated on their large farm of 300 acres on section 33, Swan -<; Township, and has all his land under an advanced state of cultivation. He has a fine thoroughbred bull, two years old, and 14 head of high grade cattle . on his place, and also handles the Clydesdale breed of horses. He is Highway Commissioner of his township, and, in politics, votes with the Greenback party. His worthy wife is highly esteemed as a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and in social circles generally.

rson G. Chapman, Postmaster at Alexis, is a descendant of two families of New England origin. His father Orson C. Chapman, was a native of that part of the United States, and his mother, nee Rebecca Gilford, was born in the State of New York. They belonged to the agricultural class and reared their son to the same calling.

The latter was born Feb. 26, 1843, in OswegoCo., N. Y. He was a pupil in the common schools in his boyhood and he remained in Oswego County until 1866, when he came to Warren County and engaged in farming in Spring Grove Township, in com- pany with his brother, Alexander Chapman. In one year thereafter he went to Kansas, where he also became interested in farming in Doniphan County, remaining two years, and then returned to Spring Grove, where he again resumed farming, which occupation he continued until 1870. In the autumn of that year he embarked in the grocery business, and was the first to establish an enterprise of that character at Alexis.

In January, 1871, he received the appointment of Postmaster, and has managed the postal affairs of the Government at that place without intermission ever since. In the fall of 1872 he closed the sale of groceries, and has since conducted the sale of stationers' goods and jewelry. He is a Republican in political sentiment.

|,arbard M. Hogan, a citizen of Kelly Township, residing on section 35, came to Warren County with his parents when he was nine years of age. He was born in Harrison County, Ind., and is the son of Harmon and Elizabeth (Miles) Hogan. His father was born Oct. 30, 1792, in Montgomery County, Va. He married Margaret Elliott in 1814, and soon after that event he located in Indiana. He lived in Dearborn County three years, and went thence to Harrison County. The days of his removal to Indiana were the days of the pioneer period, and in both the counties in which he was a resident he was among the first of the settlers. In the latter he bought a tract of land covered with primeval forest, cleared a small space and built a log house. His wife died I here in 1820. In April, 1823, he married Elizabeth Miles. She was born April 20, 1800, in Breckenridge Co., Ky. After their marriage they went to live in the native county of the wife, where they were residents until the year in which they came to Illinois. They started for the West October gih, with teams of horses, and arrived in Warren Cohnty after 20 days of travel across the country, M. Hogan bought a tax title or. section 35, in Township 12, range i which was his field of operation until his death, which transpired Sept. 19, 1864. His wife survived him until Nov. 22, 1875. He was the father of 12 children. William C. lives in the township of Henderson, in Knox County. Nancy is the wife of Harmon Brown, of the same township in which her brother lives. These two were the children of the first wife. The second wife became the mother of ten children, three of whom survive. Mr. Hogan of this sketch is the oldest. Mary E. is the wife of R. A. Sinclair, of Nebraska. Jane is married to O. E. Beswick, of Council Bluffs, Iowa.

Mr. Hogan has lived in Kelly Township from the time of the removal of his father hither to the fall of 1840, when he went to Missouri, remaining in that State two months. The business in which he had interested himself was that of an assistant in a factory for the manufacture of fanning-mills. He went thence to Madison, Indiana, and was similarly occupied while there. He remained in Indiana until March, 1850. He then came back to Warren County and engaged in the same business in the township of Cold Brook. After a period of two years passed as a craftsman there, he located on a farm, on which he passed a year. After that he was occupied a season as a lightning-rod agent, and then operated as a collector. Meanwhile, in company with a brother, he made a purchase of the farm which he now owns and occupies. During the years 1853-4 he was engaged in the management of his interests on the farm. In the autumn of the year last named he went to Galesburg and was an assistant in building the first brick business block ever erected in that place. From that date he has been occupied in the pursuit of the business of a carpenter during the greater part of the time.

He was married Dec. 30, 1862, to Miss Ida A. Thompson. They have nine children. Their names are Jennie B., Emma, Harmon B., H. Eva, L. Maud, Willie, Orrin E., Frank M. and Ralph.

In political connection and faith, Mr. Hogan is a Republican. He adheres to the faith of the Universalists. He has officiated in various township official positions, among which are Collector of Taxes, Treasurer of the school fund and Clerk. July 7, 1857, he was appointed Postmaster of Utah postal station by President Buchanan. He resigned to enter the military service and on his return was re-ap-.