Warren County, Illinois - The whole text, 1886 (part 9 of 25)

Thatcher J. the second son of Joshua and Mary (Tinkham) Porter, was born in Spring Grove Tp., July 25, 1841. He grew to manhood in that township and attended the common schools of the neighborhood. He was just 20 when the Civil War broke out, and in its second year he entered the service of his country to defend the old flag and the integrity of the Union. In the fall of 1862 he enlisted in Company B, io2d 111. Vol. Inf., and continued in the military service until March, 1863. He received his discharge on account of disability, and returned to his home. He passed the first year after his return in seeking to restore his health, and in 1865 began the work of improvement of the farm upon which he has since lived. It is situated on the northeast quarter of section 26, in the township of Spring Grove. When it became his property a log house had been built on the place and in this his family resided a few years, or until time and circumstances permitted the construction of a more suitable and satisfactory structure. The estate of Mr. Porter contains 360 acres and is all under improvement and enclosed. It comprises the varieties of land which make a farm in Illinois valuable and desirable. There is a grove of native timber of about 50 acres on the place: most of the place, however, is prairie land. A view of his present residence and farm buildings are shown on page 332.

The marriage of Mr. Porter to Kate E. McCoy took place Dec. i, 1864. She was born in Washington Co., Pa., and is the daughter of Thomas and Margaret (Newland) McCoy. Thomas McCoy was a native of Washington Co., Penn., arid was born Dec. 6, 1803. He was of Scotch parentage, Angus and Catherine (Monroe) McCoy, his father and "7 mother, both having come from Scotland. They settled in Pennsylvania, where they were married. I Thomas McCoy grew to manhood in Washington County, where he was married, and where he was engaged in farming. In the spring of 1854, he came to Warren County, first locating in Sumner Township. He remained here, however, but about three months, when he bought a farm on section 27, Spring Grove Township, where he lived until his deiith, which occurred Sept. 19, 1873. His widow is still living and resides on the old homestead with her son, Angus. They had a family of four children, Mary and John M., the eldest, two both died when they were just blooming into manhood and womanhood. Angus and Mrs. Porter are the other two. Mr. and Mrs. McCoy, after coming to Warren County, connected themselves with the United Presbyterian Church. Subsequently, Mrs. McCoy became a member of the Christian Church. In politics the elder McCoy was a life-long Democrat.

The children of Mr. and Mrs. Porter are three in number and are named Ada F., Alvin A. and T. Lee. The parents are giving their children the benefits of a good education, affording them far greater advantages in this respect than either of them ever enjoyed. Politically, Mr. Porter is a

Democrat. He is an excellent citizen and is considered a leading farmer of the county. His place is justly rated as one of the most valuable in Warren County.

rick Thompson, farmer, residing on section 4, Berwick Township, was born Feb. 21, 1824, in the southern part of Sweden. He emigrated to the " land of possibilities" in 1856, landing in New York Aug. 14, of that year. On arrival in New York city Mr- Thompson looked around and came to the conclusion that his opportunities to establish a home in that thriving metropolis with his meager means were not encouraging, and he consequently concluded to push farther west. He, therefore, soon after his arrival there, came to Galesburg, Knox Co., this State, from which place he came to Cameron, this county, where he remained until the spring of 1857. He then worked by the month at various occupations for three years.

Dec. 4, 1861, Mr. Thompson enlisted in the War for the Union, joining the 58th 111. Vol. Inf. under Capt. Fuller, and was mustered into the service at Chicago. He participated in the battle of Fort Donelson, was in the three days' fight and at the battle of Pittsburg Landing, April 2, 1862, was taken prisoner, and conveyed to Tuscalonsa, Ala., where he remained 52 days, when he was taken to that " hellhole," Anderson ville Prison, and was there confined for ten months and four days. He was detailed while at Andersonville to dig graves for Union soldiers who had died in that horrible den, and in the months of June, July and August, Mr. Thompson assisted in digging graves for 8,6 10 Union soldiers who had died inside the walls of that filthy and inhuman prison. He was taken, in September, 1864, to Florence, S. C., and there confined in another rebel prison, where he remained until the latter part of December, when he was transferred to Charleston, S. C., and the 7th day of February, 1865, he received his discharge and was mustered out at Chicago.

The marriage of Mr. Thompson to Mrs. Phebe Charles took place Oct. 25, 1860. She was born May 6, 1827, in Ohio, and died March 10, 1883. By her former marriage she became the mother of

Mr. Thompson is the proprietor of 58 acres of land where he resides; has a good residence upon his place, and is engaged in general farming, meeting with success in his vocation. He and his family are members of the Christian Church, and Mr. Thompson, as long as he remembers the terrible trial he passed through while a prisoner in rebel prisons, will never fail to vote the Republican ticket.

. esse Biggs, owning 364 acres of good farm land under excellent cultivation, located on section 2, Roseville Township, where he resides and is engaged in farming and stock-raising, was born in Tennessee, Jan. 13, 1808, his parents being Reuben and Catherine (Sailing) Riggs, natives of North Carolina. The parents of Mr. Riggs, of this sketch, in 1818, ten years after the birth of Jesse, moved from Tennessee to Missouri and there purchased 160 acres of land. They remained on the same for ten years, where his father was engaged in its cultivation. In 1828 his father sold his farm in Missouri and came to this State, locating in Morgan County, where he became owner by purchase of 120 acres, on which he resided for a number of years, when they came to live with their son, the subject of this notice, with whom they resided during the remainder of their lives and were buried in Berwick Seminary. Their family consisted of 12 children, n of whom lived to become men and women, and three of whom yet survive.

Jesse Riggs, whose biography we write, is the sixth child in order of birth of his parent's family of 12 children. He remained at home assisting in the maintenance of the family until 28 years of age. From the age of his majority until 28, he took charge of and cultivated his father's farm on shares. After leaving home, Mr. Riggs came to Warren County, in

1834, and for ii years followed farming on rented land. At the expiration of that time he purchased 80 acres in Lenox Township and resided thereon, engaged in its cultivation six years, when, by additional purchase, he added 50 acres to the same. He then sold the entire tract and purchased 220 acres in Berwick Township. On this tract he moved with his family and engaged in farming until 1864, when he sold it and purchased 160 acres in Lenox Township, which, after working two years, he also sold. He then purchased 174 acres in the same township and lived on that place for six years, when he closed out his landed interests in that Section by sale and bought the property on which he at present resides, which consists of 364 acres.

Mr. Riggs lost his first two companions. By his first wife he had three children, - Martha E., John T. and Jonathan P. The issue of the second union was four children, who are living, as follows: James O., Mary E., Henry H. and Eliza J. Mr. Riggs married the third time in 1865, the lady chosen to share his joys and sorrows, successes and reverses, being Miss Emeline Vandeveere, a native of Warren Co., 111., and she has borne to her husband four children, - Frank, Florence H., Bertie M. and Willis.

Mr. Riggs is a Democrat and has held various offices of his township and county, and with his wife is a member of the Baptist Church. Mr. Riggs is considered one of the solid and substantial men of Warren County.

illiam H. Cable, engaged as an agriculturist, residing upon section 29, Floyd Township, was born April 6, 1835, his parents being Henry and Olive (Kingsley) Cable. His father was born Sept. 8, 1795 in Columbia Co., N. Y., and came to Floyd Township, Nov. i, 1835, where he resided until April, 1867, when he moved to Monmouth, in which place he resided until liis death. He was six weeks on the journey from his native State, coming down the Ohio to Cairo, and from that place to St. Louis, finally landing at Yellow Banks, now called Oquawka. At the latter place he started with teams to Monmouth, where he found but one frame building in the city. His marriage was celebrated on the 28th of April, i8t6, in New York, with Miss Olive Kingsley, mother of our subject, she having been born in Connecticut, April 16, 1792. To use Mr. Cable's own language (expressed with a pride which reflects credit upori him as a son), his mother was a " genuine Connecticut Yankee," who " spun the yarn from which his father's wedding suit of clothes were made," Her demise occurred Feb. 23, 1876, at the age of 83 years, to months and 7 days. Mr. Henry Cable died after a life of hard work, on the 8th of March, 1878. Their family consisted of Mary, born April i, 1819; Ezra, Feb. n, 1821; George C., April r, 1823; Chancy M., May 19, 1825 ; Elizabeth A , Dec. 19, 1828, and William H., of whom we write this biographical notice.

Miss Mary A. Chaffee was the lady chosen to share the joys and sorrows, successes and reverses of Mr. William H. Cable, their marriage occurring Aug. r 25, 1858. She was born in Wyoming Co., N. Y., July 24, 1839, and of her union with Mr. Cable, five children were born, all surviving. Charles H., born July 31, 1860; Francis E., June 17, 1862; Henry G., April 24, 1864; Eddy D., April 6, 1866; Albert B., April 20, 1876. Henry, the third in order of birth, was severely injured when 16 years of age by the bursting of a circular saw operated for the purpose of sawing stove wood at his father's door. While the lad stood throwing away the blocks as they fell from the machine, he was struck by a piece of the bursted saw (measuring 16 x 28 inches) at the edge of the hair over the left eye, tearing away a piece from the skull 2>£ x $% inches. The scalp wound was 13 inches in circumference, but the wound healed without any artificial appliance, and to-day he is in a sound physical condition, and with mental faculties unimpaired and of the brightest order. He is now residing in Minneapolis, Minn., holding a position as Clerk in the Security Bank of Minnesota. He is 21 years of age.

Mr. William H. Cable came to Illinois with his parents when but six months old, in 1835. He has 160 acres of good land under excellent cultivation and improvement. Upon it he has erected a dwelling 30 x 34 feet in dimensions, with a fine grove of forest trees surrounding it. He has a herd of about 25 head of Short-horn cattle highly graded, and his horses are of the Hambletonian and Bashaw grades.

He is also the owner of a pair of Clydesdale colts of very fine breed. Mr. Cable is now serving as Justice of the Peace in this township, having served as School Director for 12 or 14 years. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, having belonged to this denomination for over 31 years. Politically, he is identified with the Republican party. The Cable family originated from Germany. Their great-grandfather emigrated to this country in the early part of the 1710 century.

obert B. Woodward. One of the extensive farmers of Roseville Township and large land-owners of the county, is Mr. R. B. Woodward: He is a native of Pennsylvania and was born in Fayette Co., Oct. 14, 1829, his parents being Davis and Mary (Boyd) Woodward, also natives of the Keystone State. By occupation, the father, Davis, was engaged in farming. He was married in 1828, and to that union 13 children were born, 12 of whom grew to maturity, and 1 1 survive their parents. The family were from Cumberland County and moved West to Fayette County.

Robert B. was the eldest child of his parents' family, receiving at their hands a good commonschool education and assisting them whenever it was possible until he attained the age of majority, when he went out to earn his own livelihood, wholly dependent upon himself. He rented a farm, which he continued for two years, having had fair success, and March 31, 1853, came to Illinois and located in Roseville Township, this county, where he purchased 187 acres of land upon section 30, 20 acres of which was timber. Upon this tract of land he remained, engaged in its cultivation and improvement, until he has increased his landed interests to 561 acres. He is extensively engaged in the stock business and is meeting with success.

Dec. 5, 1850, the marriage of Mr. Robert B. Woodward and Miss Sarah A. Work, native of Pennsylvania, was solemnized. She was the daughter of Andrew and Amy (Harris) Work, also natives of that State. Mr. and Mrs. Woodward have had their home circle blessed with the birth of six children, all of whom survive, and of whom the following is a brief memorandum: Mary, Davis A., Andrew D., Seth, Jacob H. and Viola. Mary, wife of Charles Steward, resides in Franklin Co., Kan. ; Davis A. married Annie Wilson, a resident of Roseville Township; Andrew D. married Priscilla Boyd, and is a farmer in Point Pleasant Township; Seth married Ida Lippe and is an occupant of the home farm ; Jacob H. and Viola are still at home.

Mr. Woodward is a Democrat in political affiliation, and, socially, belongs to the Select Knights and is a member of the A. O. U. W. He is a director and stockholder in the Roseville Union Bank, and is one of the prominent and substantial men of Warren County. Mrs. Woodward is a member of the Congregational Church.

i ohn B. Sofield, of the firm of Sofield & Schussler, successors to D. Harvey, dealer in hardware, stoves, tinware and agricultural implements, at Monmouth, was born at Lawrenceville, Tioga Co., Pa., March 26, 1833. His parents, John and Julia A. (Grant) Sofield, natives of New Jersey and Connecticut respectively, and dating their early ancestry back to old England, were married in the State of New York, where two of their children were born. The rest of their four sons and five daughters were born in Pennsylvania. The senior Mr. Sofield, who was for many years in the hardware business at Wellsborough, Pa., died at that place in 1860, aged about 58 years His widow survived him eight years, and died at the age of 63. Their eldest son, Alfred J. Sofield, was a. Captain in the Union Army and lost his life at Gettysburg. His Company was attached to the celebrated " Buck Tails," 149111 Pa. Vol. Inf.

John B. Sofield was educated at the public schools and at Wellsborough Academy. When between 16 and 17 years of age, he began learning the tinner's trade, and in about a year and a half went into the stove and tinware business at Wellsborough, which he followed nine years. He then removed to Iowa and a few months later to Osawatomie, Kan., where he spent three years in the hardware business. In 1860 he'came to Warren County, where his principal business has been in dealing in hardware, stoves, tinware, etc. He was permanently located 20 years at Kirkwood, coming to Monmouth in 1880. He retained his interest, however, at Kirkwood, until 1883. He was appointed Postmaster at Kirkwood, in 1879, but held the office only a few months, finding the position irksome and militating to too great an extent against the interests of his private business. While at Kirkwood, he was several terms a member of the Common Council of that city, a position that has also been thrust upon him since coming to Monmouth.

Aside from his mercantile business, Mr. Sofield is largely interested in banking, to which he has given considerable attention. He is eminently a business man, full of energy and activity and possessed of a high order of executive ability.

At Galesburg, this State, Mr. Sofield was married . Oct. 18, 1859, to Miss Helen M. Smalley, native of ; Madison Co., N. Y. They have one child, a daugh- , ter. Mr. Sofield is ever an active Republican in , politics, but his religion is liberal and broad. Both ' he and Mrs. Sofield are members of the Universalist j Church.

rthis work, was born in Fayette Co., Pa., Oct. 13, 1828. His father was Wilson Swain, a native of Pennsylvania and descended from the German ; and his mother was Rebecca Mc- Cracken, daughter of Rev Alex. McCracken, a pioneer Methodist preacher of Ohio, but a native of Ireland, dating his ancestry back to the Scotch who fled into Ireland at the time of the Romish persecution. Wilson Swain and Miss McCracken were married in Fayette Co., Pa., where their five sons and one daughter were born, and there the two old people spent their lives. Mr. Swain died in 1845, aged 60 years, and his widow, in 1852, aged 68 years. Alexander Hamilton Swain, whose name would in- dicate that the senior Swain leaned rather to the Federal than to the Republican party of that time, was the youngest of the five sons. The eldest, John, developed into a river man (Steam-boat Captain), and died in 1845 ; the second son, William T., became a merchant and subsequently a soldier. He was Captain of Co. H, I2th 111. Vol. Inf., and was killed at Shiloh; the third son, Andrew J , grew into a preacher in the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, and the fourth son, Wilson, learned to be a blacksmith, and died at Uniontown, Pa., in 1850; the daugher, Rebecca, married a Mr. T. A. Stone, and died in 1864, at Uniontown.

Alexander Swain, subject of this notice, was at Uniontown College when his father died and from that day he had to shift for himself. The Genius of Liberty, a Democratic paper, was established at Uniontown, in 1805, and through all the various changes of eight decades, it has stood by its colors; demonstrating the appropriateness of its title and is a flourishing Democratic paper, A. D. 1886. In the office of this paper, young Swain began to be a printer, and here he worked for several years. In 1853, he landed at Tiskilwa, Bureau County, this State, and there worked about nine months for his merchant brother. He next took employment as a printer on the Knoxville Journal, coming from there to Monmouth, in 1855. Friday, Dec. 28, 1855, the Monmouth Review made its first appearance, and though its editor and proprietor possessed but a very limited cash fund when he struck the town, his paper has appeared regularly every Friday, from that day to this - a period covering near a third of a century - each succeeding issue presenting a more promising indication of perpetual existence. That its many readers may know that its Democracy, pure as it is to-day, is but the embodiment of the time honored principles of that great party, untarnished and unchanged by the wear and tear of ages, we reproduce here, the salient points set forth in Mr. Swain's salutatory of over 30 years ago.

" In commencing the Monmouth Review we feel called upon to make a short statement to the public of our views and intentions in the future publication of this paper. Our movement in the present instance has not been prompted by any spirit of contention or desire to assail those who may differ with us in opinion, but from the evident demands of the growth and improvement of the country, and the party whose principles we wish to advocate. The Democratic party in this section of the State appears to require an organ which should express their views, uphold Democratic principles and seek to extend the influences of Democracy among the people. How far we shall succeed in performing this onerous task it is not for us to say, more than that we shall set ourselves with all our abilities to its performance. The Democratic party at this time occupies a singular position before the country ; beset by all the different factions and organizations of the day whose policy for the time is to drop minor differences and unite for the defeat of that one party, which has ever maintained its part as a barrier against sectionalism on the one hand and lawlessness on the other. In reference to the important and exciting issues which divide and excite the people, we stand on the broad National platform of the Democracy of the whole Union which allows the people of the several States and Territories to regulate their domestic concerns in their own way, which extends to the needy of every country and clime the rights and privileges we so bountifully enjoy, irrespective of their religious and political opinion or place of, birth."

The files of the Review attest the adherence of its editor to the principles he has honestly thought right. Though many have differed and will continue to differ with him, none have ever doubted his sincerity. His paper has always championed the weak as against the strong, has always advocated the advancement of public interest and in no instance has it groveled in the slum of personal abuse unaccompanied by public duty. Mr. Swain was one of the original 12 to organize the Warren County Library and that greatest of all the city's public institutions, owes much of its success to the influences wielded by Editor Swain and his paper. Personally, Mr. Swain has been but little in politics. He was a candidate for Circuit Clerk in 1864, and defeated by methods that would never be tolerated when the country was at peace. In 1869-70, he was Journal Clerk of the Constitutional Convention, and as such wrote the present Constitution of Illinois.

Mr. Swain is a 32d degree Mason ; served 14 years as High Priest in Chapter, and some years as illustrious Grand Master of Council. June 9, 1856. at Knoxville, 111., Mr. Swain was married to Miss Mary Louisa Brewer, cousin of Dr. Brewer, whose fndrew J. Reid is a resident on section 4 of the township of Spring'Grove. He was born in the town of Greenwich, Washington Co., N. Y., and is the son of Peter'and Phebe (Hutchins) Reid. His parents were both born in the same county where their son first saw the light of day. His birth occurred July 9, 1833. Alexander Reid, his paternal grandfather, was also a native of the State of New York and was a Lieutenant in the Continental Army. He was a participant in the battle of Hubbardton in Rutland Co., Vt., the only authenticated'battlefield of the Revolution in the Green Mountain State. John Reid, the great-grandfather, was a native of Scotland, and he was one of the earliest settlers of Washington Co., N. Y., where he settled on a tract of land known . as the " Argyle Patent." The maternal grandmother was a native of Nova Scotia. In her girlhood, she was Eunice Campbell. Her father was of the Campbell clan.

The father of Mr. Reid of this sketch was reared on the home farm and became quite famous as a naturalist. He was one of those who classified and arranged the flora of the Empire State. He was well known through his writings for the Spirit Of The Times. His death took place in Greenwich, Washington Co., N. Y.. in September, 1878, at the age of 83 years and two months. The mother died in 1878, aged 76. Six of 11 children of whom they became the parents, are still living. Alexander H. resides in De Kalb Co., 111. ; Andrew J. is the next in order; Jane E. is the wife of John Wellman, of Greenwich, N. Y. ; Catherine is married to H. L. Pratt, of Westfield, ChautauquaCo., N. Y. ; Margaret is the wife of Edward Orcutt, of Cambridge, Washington Co., N. Y. ; Emily A, is married to William T. Creighton, of Harper City, Kan.

the training of a farmer's son. He obtained a degree of learning which enabled him to engage in teaching, and for a time he was occupied in that pursuit. In 1857 he came to Illinois. He passed three years in farming in Mercer County, and in 1860 came to Warren County and followed the same pursuit in the summer seasons and taught school winters until he decided to enter the military service of the United States. He enlisted Sept. 30, 1861, in Co. G, 3oth 111. Vol. Inf., and continued to discharge military duty until he received an honorable discharge, Dec. 21, 1862, for disability. He was in the actions at Fort Donelson and Britton's Lane, near Denmark. After his return to Warren County, he located upon the farm where he now resides. It was unimproved at the time, but under his skillful management it was soon placed in proper condition for prosperous agriculture. In 1872 he engaged in mercantile business at Norwood, in which pursuit he continued for seven years, when he again resumed fanning. In political relations, he is a Republican. His marriage to Selinda E. Boggs took place June 3, 1863. She was born in Huntingdon Co., Pa., and is the mother of two children, - Gertrude and Eva May.

I. Field. Among the energetic and prosfc perous agriculturists of Warren County, is Mr. Field of this notice, who is a resident on section 15, Tompkins Township, and a native of the Buckeye State, having been born there in the year 1819. Jacob and Martha (Inman) Field, the parents of Mr. J. I. Field of this writing; were natives of the State of Pennsylvania, coming to Ohio from the latter State in the year 1818. The father, Jacob, resided in Ohio until 1854 (the mothers demise having occurred in 1849), when he came to the State of Illinois, and located in Henderson County, where he purchased land and engaged in farming until his death, in 1875.

J. I. Field remained with his parents until he attained the age of 30 years, or the year in which the death of his mother occurred. He attended the common schools and at the age of 15 years engaged under his father's instruction [to learn the blacksmith's trade, at which he worked for 15 years in his father's shop. He then came to this State and purchased 1 60 acres of raw prairie land in Walnut Grove Township, Henderson County, upon which he moved and engaged in the laborious task of its improvement and cultivation, and to which, by a subsequent purchase, he added 80 acres. He continued to reside on this land until 1876, when he sold out and moved into the village of Kirkwood, there purchasing a lot and residence, in which he resided for 18 months. He then sold l.is village property a|id bought 160 acres of land, located upon sections 10 and 15. On this land he moved his family and once more engaged in the vocation of an agriculturist, which he has successfully continued until the present time. He has an excellent farm, with good residence and outbuildings, and its general appearance and actual condition is highly indicative of that thrift and energy which its owner possessses.

In 1857 Mr. Field was married to Miss Jane Mathews, a native of the State of Pennsylvania, and who bore him three children, - Martha J., William E.and Joseph F. The wife and mother, after accompanying her husband through the trials of 17 years, passed to the land of the hereafter, her death occurring in 1874. In his political views, Mr. Field coincides with the principles of the Republican party. His religion is the same as that of the United Presbyterian Church, of which denomination at Kirkwood, he is a member.

. ohn Bennet, who, after the many struggles which he has e.ncountered'in his more than four score years, is now able to sit in the midst of peace and plenty, while viewing the the golden sunset of life in the domestic quietude of his farm, on section 16, Tompkins Township. He was born in Montgomery Co., N. Y., July 13, 1800, his parents being James and Hannah (Sharp) Bennett, natives of South Catolina and New York respectively.

Mr. Bennett of this notice was an inmate of the the parental household until 20 years of age. He received such education as was to be acquired at the district schools, and in 1824, after leaving the home of his parents, he purchased a tract of farm land on time, which, however, owing to reverses, he was unable to pay for. After this first bitter experience with the " ups and downs "of life, he was occupied until 1854 in agricultural pursuits on rented land in his native State. In 1854 Mr. Bennett came to Illinois and purchased a farm of 80 acres in Warren County, located on section 16, Tompkins Township, on which he established a home for his family, and for eight years he continued to reside thereon, dilligently cultivating the soil. In 1865 he sold his 80- acre tract and purchased the farm upon which he has since resided. His improvements are of the best quality and his farm is indicating of that push and energy which has characterized the life of Mr. Bennett.

Mr. Bennett has been twice married. His first marriage was to Miss Lydia Thorp, January, 1821, and by whom he had two children. Miss Melinda Thorp became his second wife. In politics Mr. Bennett is a strong advocate of the principles of the Repyblican party. In religion he and his wife are lx>th members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

.ugh Martin, deceased, was a pioneer of Warren County and came hither in 1832, in which year he located in that part of the county now included in the township of Sumner. He was born in Westmoreland Co., Pa. It is a. tradition that his father was an Indian captive 12 years. Mr. Martin was married in his native county to Margaret Brown, who was born in Ireland. She came to this country at the age of 14. On the route the vessel was captured by pirates. Half of the crew from the freebooter was placed on board, and one-half of the captured crew transferred to pirate vessel. In the course of the storm that soon after arose, the vessels became separated and that portion of the captured crew left on board their own ship, mutined (if such a term can properly apply) and retook their ship. They made the port of New York in safety and the owners of the vessel refunded the passage money to the passengers. Mrs. Martin came in company with her brother and they located in Pennsylvania. Seven years later her mother and other members of the family came from the Green Isle to join them.

Soon after his marriage, Mr. Martin went to Muskingum Co., Ohio, being one of the earliest of its pioneer population. In 1829, in company with his wife and seven children, he set his face toward Illinois. He drove a four-horse team across the many intervening miles and made the trp in the Gipsy fashion. After six weeks travel they arrived in Fulton County. Mr. Martin bought a half-section of land for which he paid $200. He rented a few acres of timber which was in the vicinity of his purchase, on which a log- cabin had been erected, and the humble structure sheltered the family three years. At the end of that time another removal brought the household to Warren County. This was in the fall of 1832. Mr. Martin pre-empted a claim on section 28, in what became Sumner Township, when the work of county organization was completed. He built a log house on his claim, which , was his home until death. He was a hard-working, honest man and was frugal in habits, and judicious in the management of his affairs. Before he died he was the owner of 600 acres of land which was distributed among his children previous to his death. His second son, William, was the first of the family to reach the site of Sumner Township. He was murdered by the Indians in August, 1832.

*ohn J. Ivey is a farmer and breeder of thoroughbred horses and trotting stock, and resides on section 33, of Sumner Township. He is a native of Tennessee and is a descendant of parents who were born respectively in Virginia and Northern Tennessee. His father, David A. Ivey, was a native of Sussex Co., Va. He was old enough to take a part in the war of 1812, when that struggle broke out, and afterward married a lady named Mourning Mason. She was the daughter of a "hard-shell" Baptist preacher, and her parents were natives of North Carolina. The marriage took place in Robertson Co., Tenn., where they lived about four years. They then went to Logan Co., Ky., where the father purchased a tract of timber three miles from the State line. He lived to clear a farm upon which he died in 1867, his wife following him in 1870. All their lives were passed in the practice of the principles of Christianity, and they were consistent members of the Methodist Church. They left a record which still exerts an influence on those to whom their careers of uprightness and integrity were well known. Six of their children grew to maturity. Carrie, the oldest, remained with her parents until their respective deaths. She now resides with her brother in Sumner Township. Virginia is also a member of the household of her brother. James A. is a preacher in the Methodist Church, and is now stationed at New Orleans. Joseph died on the homestead in Kentucky. Ellen is the wife of the Rev. James A. Lewis, of Kentucky.

Mr. Ivey was born Dec. 6, 1827, in Robertson Co., Tenn. He was but a few months old when his parents removed to Kentucky, where he was brought up on the farm of his father. The residence was in Logan County and the boy passed his time mostly in farm labor, with the exception of the winter seasons which were spent in obtaining an education in the select schools. His first engagement in active life . was as a clerk in a store in Keysburg, where he operated three years and went thence to Clarksville, Tenn. At that place he continued in the same vocation in a wholesale and retail establishment, where he continued three years. He then formed a partnership with R. M. House, whereby he acquired an interest in the oldest grocery house in Clarksville. The relation continued until 1859 when it was terminated by the death of Mr: House. After an experience alone, of about the duration of a year, he sold out and went to that part of Steward County, Tennessee, which is now included in Houston County, and there bought a farm and milling property - the latter including a saw and flour mill. He superintended these interests until interrupted by circumstances growing out of the bitter internecine war. He was a slave-holder and withal a' Union man of decided and declared opinions. Unfortunately, his ideas were not those that generally prevailed there and he soon found himself in incogenial quarters. His life was unsafe and eventually the fate that overwhelmed all who had the smallest re- spect for an integral Union, overtook him. His property was confiscated and he became a fugitive in the woods of the State where he had added to the general prosperity without the privilege of cherishing his own views of his rights as a man. After the fall of Fort Donelson the Union commander removed the family of Mr. Ivey under a guard of protection to the home of his father in Kentucky. The Union forces were under obligations to him for services for which his knowledge of th§ surrounding country especially fitted, and he acted as a scout and guide for the soldiers. He was chiefly identified with the 83d 111. Vol. Inf. In consequence of these important services his interests received special attention at the hands of the victors at Fort Donelson, and his family was removed to safe quarters, and provided for. His services to the Union cause, having rendered him peculiarly unpopular among the people of Stewart Co., Tenn., a return to his home in that section, after the close of the war would have been, to say the least, an unwise movement. He therefore concluded to cast his fortunes with that part of the Union whose side he had espoused in the course of the conflict. As many of those with whom he had become acquainted in the army were from Warren Co., 111., that fact determined his future and he came hither. He arrived at Oquawka, July 4, 1865, and came directly to Sumner Township. He had already bought 200 acres of land in that township, on sections 29 and 33, and on his arrival he took possession of the property. His family removed to a small frame house which had been built previous to his purchase. All the structures on The place, including the fences, were in a state of dilapidation and he at once set about the work of putting everything into presentable conditition. He has erected a fine large farmhouse and an excellent barn, beside other buildings. He has also added 60 acres additional to the farm and the whole place is in the best possible condition for profitable fanning. The place is thus thoroughly well adapted to all the uses of agriculture. It is supplied with running water, timber and building stone of a good quality. For a time Mr. Ivey directed his attention to the breeding of mules and operated with success in that line, until 1 88 1, when lie commenced to raise thoroughbred Kentucky horses for the track. At present he has eight of them in training, six of the number having made a record at the agricultural exhibitions in the

Mr. Ivey is a firm adherent of the Republican party in his political views and connections. He is a man of ability and one who is awake to all issues that can affect the general welfare. He is thoroughly versed in the current news of the day, and abreast of the advancement of the period. He is a thoroughly domestic man with all the excellences of character that mark men of like proclivities. He has served two years as Supervisor of Sumner Township.

His marriage to Miss Columbia House took place Aug. 26, 1856. She is the daughter of Robert M. and Mary R. (Barnes) House, and was born in Williamson Co., Tenn., and was of German descent, his ancestors having been early settlers in Virginia. Her mother is of Scotch descent. The first wholesale grocery business established at Clarksville, was started by her father. He died Feb. i, 1859, leaving to a family of five children, a priceless heritage, a good name.

Mr. and Mrs. Ivey have only two children living. They are daughters and are named Mary Virginia and Emma F. Their first born was a daughter who died in infancy. John J., the only son was born in Stewart Co., in 1862, and died in Dallas, Texas, Nov. 23, 1883.

arvin Perry, a farmer of Tompkins Township residing on sec. 215, was born in Putnam Valley, Putnam Co., N. Y., Oct. 3, 1830, his parents being Reuben and Lorinda (Pratt) Perry, natives of New York and Connecticut respectively. The gentleman whose name stands at the head of this biographical notice lived with his parents until he attained the age of 20 years, receiving at their hands a good, commonschool education. Leaving home at that age of life, he worked at various occupations by the month for several years. In 1857 he came to Warren County, this State, and settled near Cameron, where for three years he followed the vocation of an agriculturist on rented land. In 1861, when the news flashed across the country that the Southern States had seceded and Rebel shot and shell were being thundered against the walls of Sumter, Mr. Perry was one of the first to respond to the call of our martyred President for brave hearts and strong arms to defend the country's flag. He enlisted in Co. H, 451)1 111. Vol. Inf., and served for three years. He was Corporal and then promoted Sergeant, and participated in the battles of Fort Donelson, and many others of smaller import. After being a member of the 451!! Regiment for a year and a half, he received an honorable discharge, by special order, and immediately enlisted in the Mississippi River Marine Brigade, and served in the same until he received an honorable discharge by reason of the disbandment of the Brigade. Returning home, he again rented land for three years and engaged in his former occupation. At the expiration of that time, he purchased 70 acres of land, where he at present resides, engaging actively and energetically in its improvement and cultivation.

Mr. Perry was united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth F. Brown, a native of Indiana, Fs^ti^vjfi&f and of their union two children, Villa May and Lorinda D., have been born. In politics, Mr. Perry is a strong supporter and active worker for the principles advocated by the Prohibition party. In religion, he and his wife are members of the Protestant Methodist Church.

. ohn Simcock, one of the highly esteemed IF citizens of the township of Spring Grove, where he has resided for many years, is a native of England and was born in Staffordshire Dec. 27, 1829. He was a son of a miner and, according to the custom in England, prepared to follow the vocation of his ancestors. When he was seven years of age he entered the mines to assist in the variety of labor that can be performed by the children of the miners, and which is in many instances quite important, as the maintenance of the family is thereby much enhanced. He was engaged in the capacity of a door-tender and his duty was to open the doors leading to various portions of the mine before the passage of the cars which contained the results of the labors of those who worked the veins of coal. As he grew older he was \ romoted to other kinds of labor of a more advanced character until he could wield all the tools of z.bona-fide miner. He continued to reside in his native country until 185 r. In that year, during the month of May, he left Liverpool on a sailing vessel for the United States, and landed at <he port of New York after an ocean passage of six weeks and -three days. He proceeded to Mahoning Co., Ohio, and was occupied in the mines there until the month of October following.

During the month last mentioned he came to Illinois, and after a delay of a short time in LaSalle County he came, in the spring of 1852, to Warren County. He engaged in his old vocation here until the spring of 1853, when he returned to the land of his birth. He passed a year on his native island and in the spring of r85s he returned to the home '-of his adoption. He then went to the same county- In the Buckeye State where he had at first found employment on coming to America, and in the fall of the same year 'came again to La Salle County. He< passed a year in the mines there and then went to St. Louis. A year was passed in the State of Missouri and in 1856 he came again to Warren County with the intent to pass his remaining life within its limits.

He then first entered into the business of a farmer in good earnest, and rented land in the township of Spring Grove. He operated there a few years-and then became an independent landholder in the township of Cold Brook. The tract contained coal and he opened the hidden treasures and operated as a miner until i86(. In the fall of that year he went thence to Pike's Peak. He drove an ox team and passed two months on the way to his destination in the mountains. After reaching there lie engaged in gold-mining two months, and, not finding the results of his labors satisfactory, he returned to Warren County. He passed the first year after his return in the township of Cold Brook and then rented a coalbank on section 14, Spring Grove Township.

fii 1864 he bought a tract of land situated on the northeast quarter of section 14, and. as it contained a vein of coal, he proceeded to open it for the purpose of carrying on the same business witli which he was familiar. It did not prove a success, and not long after he exchanged the land for the same quantity on the southeast quarter of the same section. There he opened a coal-bank, which he has since continued to operate with success. In 1872 lie put in the shaft and it is the only one in the township. The output of the bank is between 40,000 and 60,- ooo bushels annually. A view of Mr. Sirncock's residence and coal-bank is given on page 344.

Mr. Simcock was married April 26, 1859, to Janet McKelvie. She was born in Ayrshire, Scotland, April 16, 1842, and is the mother of 13 children, 12 of whom are living. Elizabeth is the wife of Enoch Wilson, of Spring Grove Township; Ma'.ilda married Lincoln Bailey of the same township. Those who are unmarried are Margaret J., John, Janet, Thomas, Aaron, Annie, Edith, Bertha, Charles and Richard. Mr. and Mrs. Simcock are members of the Church of God, at Spring Grove. In politics, he has always been a strong supporter of the principles of the Republican party.

; illiam Crosby became a citizen of what is now Kelly Township in 1848. He was born in 1815, in Augusta County, Va., and is the son of George Crosby, a native of Pennsylvania. The latter was born in 1862, and settled in the "Old Dominion " in 1804. He bought a farm in Augusta County and was its owner and occupant tnrough the remainder of his life. He was by trade a blacksmith, and during the second contest with Great Britain he made horseshoes for the use of the soldiers of the American army. His wife was a native of the county where her son was born. He was reared on the farm and was a pupil in what was called the "subscription school." He grew to the age of manhood in Virginia and married Maria Wagner, in September, 1839. She was born in Augusta County, in 1817.

For the next eight years Mr. and Mrs. Crosby remained on the homestead of his father and in 1847 started to find a home in the West. They traveled to Harrison County, Ind., with two horses and a wagon, and lived there about a year. In Match, 1848, they again turned their faces toward the settine; sun, setting out on the i6th of that month with the same outfit as that with which they had left Virginia the year previous. They arrived in Warren County on the ad day of April, and took possession of a claim which the father had secured the fall prev'ous. It consisted of 80 acres, and afier a few years it was found that the title was defective and Mr.^ Crosby was obliged to pay for the property a second time. Since he secured himself in its ownership he has been a continuous resident on the place. He is at present the owner also of 80 acres on section i, in the same township, and 21 acres of timber on section 13. He and his wife have nine children living, - Ruth, May, Elizabeth, George, Sally, John, Benjamin, Melinda and Augustus. Mr. Crosby has been a life-long adherent of the Democratic party.

:, iram Ingersoll, a pioneer of Warren County, of 1835, was born Feb. 7, 1812, in Cortland Co,N. Y. His father, David Ingersoll, was a native of Massachusetts and the mother was born in Ireland. Her name before her marriage was Jane. McCoy. The elder Ingersoll located with his family in Broome Co., N. Y., when his son was 12 years of age. He was there resident until the fall of the year named, in which he determined to seek a home in the " far West." He removed from his home in the Empire State as far as Syracuse, where he took passage on a canal-boat for Buffalo. He crossed the lakes from that place to Chicago, and there hired a team which brought him to Peoria. He came thence to Warren County on foot. His father had settled in Kelly Township in 1833, and in the fall of 1835 Mr. Ingersoll joined the family there. He engaged in farming on his father's estate. In the spring following he went to Knoxville and passed two months there working at his trade of carpentry. He returned to the home of his father and pursued the same occupation in Warren Count). In the spring of 1838 he went back to the State of his nativity and remained there about a year and a half. In the autumn of 1839 he again came to Kelly Township, and lived with the family of his father until the succeeding spring. In the course of that season he built a house for his father and got out the timber preparatory to the construction of a saw-mill. He continued to follow the trade of carpentry for some years, as he had opportunity. In 1846 he was married, and bought a farm on section 22 of the same township in which his parents resided, and passing the intervening years between that time and 1875 in farming and working at his trade. In the year last mentioned he retired from the cares and responsibilities of active life and bought the place where he has since resided in that part of Alexis which is included in Henderson Township, in Mercer County.

Jan. i, 1846, he was married to Cecilia Potter. She was born in Ashtabula County, Ohio, March 14, 1826, and is the daughter of Chester and Eliza (Castle) Potter. Her parents were natives of Litchfield, Conn., and came to Fulton Co., 111., in 1831. After passing a winter there they came, in the spring of 1832, to Warren County. They located at Rockwell's Mills, where they resided at the time of the Black Hawk War. The family was in the block-house in the fort at the time of the murder of William Martin, in 1832. An account of this affair will be found in various parts of this work in connection with the sketches of those who were witnesses of the flight of the savages with the scalp of their victim. In 1833 Mr. Potter removed to Kelly Township, and in the same year he erected a grist-mill on Main Henderson Creek. Soon after he built a saw-mill in connection with the mill already standing. Mr. and Mrs. Potter lived in Kelly Township until the events of their death. Mr. and Mrs. Ingersoll had one child, which died at the age of nine months.

^avid J. Shaw is one of the prominent farmers in the township of Spring Grove. His home farm is located on section 8, where he is the owner of 210 acres of excellent land in the best possible condition. He also owns a quarter section of the old homestead farm on section 4, Spring Grove Township.

Mr. Shaw was born June 22, 1840, in Brown Co., Ohio. He is the oldest son of Robert and Lucinda (Stewart) Shaw. His father was a native of the

State of Kentucky, but reared in Ohio, to which State his parents moved during his early childhood, they being among the first permanent settlers in Brown County. Robert Shaw was twice married, and of the four children left motherless by the death of his first wife, one only is now living, Ezra, who is a resident of the city of Chicago. Lucinda Stewart, the second wife and the mother of the gentleman who is the subject of this sketch, was born in Ohio and was of English extraction. On the paternal side, the family is of Scotch origin. From the second marriage were born 12 children, of whom only six are now living. Elizabeth removed to Toledo, Tama Co., Iowa; James is married and is a citizen of Davenport, in that State; John lives in the city of Chicago ; Catherine is the wife of Herman Loveridge, of Galesburg, 111.; Laura is living in Toledo, Tama Co., Iowa, with her sister.

Mr. Shaw was 16 years of age when his parents came to Warren County. They located on section 4, in Spring Grove Township, his father purchasing ' a farm which contained 240 acres. The claim upon which the property was situated, was first settled by a man named Stewart, who was one of. a body of 14 pioneers who made the first settlement in the county. The original owner had placed 100 acres under cultivation, and there was a convenient and fairly good log house and stable on the place. The senior Shaw made a further purchase of 40 acres on section 7, and was resident thereon for the remainder of his life, with the exception of two years passed in Monmouth. His death took place in September, 1874, his wife following him in April, 1879.

Mr. Shaw remained at home with his parents until his marriage. That event took place Oct. 3, 1861, when he became the husband of Nancy Armstrong. She was born in Indiana Co., Pa., and was the daughter of Thomas and Mary (Johnson) Armstrong. Mr. Shaw and his wife located in Mercer County soon after their union, and one year later took possession of the place on which they are now living, where he is engaged in mixed husbandry. Mr. and Mrs. Shaw are the parents of six children - R. Thomas, Mary L., William, Clarence, Delia and George. Their eldest son occupies the old homestead farm located on section 4. Mary L. is married to Alex. Pease, a farmer of Mercer County.

Two of the brothers of the subject of our sketch, Martin Luther and James, were soldiers in the late Rebellion. The former was a member of Co. F, i;th Regt. 111. Vol. Inf. He took an active part in many engagements, participating in the battles of Shiloh, Fort Donelson and Vicksburg, among others, and during his service of three years was present at all the engagements in which his regiment took part. On his return home, he was appointed Deputy Internal Revenue Collector, continuing to fill that important position until he received the appointment of ticket agent at Monmouth for the Rockford, Rock Island & St. Louis Railroad, on the completion of the line. About three weeks thereafter he was killed at the depot by a train. His death occurred in 1872, a wife and two children surviving him, who are now living in Wilber, Neb.

James Shaw was a member of the io2d Regt. 111. Vol. Inf. Going out during the latter part of the war, he served until the close of the great contest. Upon his return home, he engaged in farming, sub-

We present in this connection a portrait of David J. Shaw. There will also be found, on page 332, a view of his residence, and of the original Shaw homestead established by his father.

eorge W. McMahill, farmer, residing on section 31:, Greenbush Township, was born in 1826, in Kentucky, and is a son of John McMahill, a native of the Keystone State. The grandfather of Mr. McMahill, of this notice, John McMahill, was kidnapped when a small lad by a Captain of a sailing vessel from off the coast of Ireland, and was brought to this country and settled in Philadelphia, where he remained until he was killed by the falling of a tree. George W., of whom we write, was married to Miss Martha Jane McMahill, May 8, 1848, in Illinois.

She was born in 1833. They have had no children. Mr. McMahill is the owner of some 3,000 acres of land, some of it being located in Missouri, some in Iowa, and the remainder in McDonough and Warren Counties, this State. He is engaged in breeding full-blood Short-horn cattle, of which he has some 40 head. He also has one Holstein cow. His horses are of the Norman and Clydesdale breed. In religion, he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and in politics, Mr. McMahill always votes the Democratic ticket.

illiam J. Nicol, a well-to-do farmer of Sumner Township, residing on section ^, has been all his life an inhabitant of Illinois, and a resident of Warren County since five years of age. He was born Sept. 18, 1847, in Edgington Township, Rock Island Co., 111. James Nicol, his father, is a native of Preble, Co., Ohio, and came to Warren Co. before he was married. He passed a few years in Rock Island County, where he was one of the first settlers. He bought land in the township which has been named as the one in which his son was born, but at that time it was designated by the number which was to be found on the charts of the surveyors. He remained there until 1852. In that year he removed to Warren County and settled in Spring Grove Township. After a residence there of five years, he sold the farm on which he had lived, and located in the township of Sumner. He became a landholder on sections 18 and 19 and continued the management of his property there until his decease, which transpired March 4, 1861. His wife, Susan (Giles) Nicol, was a native of Ohio, and died in 1869. They were the parents of four children, and the son who is the subject of this personal narration is the only survivor. It can justly be said of him that he has grown up with Warren County. He lived with his parents until their death.

In 1883, Mr. Nicol was married to Sarah A. Mc- Cracken. She is the daughter of Frederick and Mary J. McCracken, and is a native of the county in which she lives. She was born Jan. 21, 1862.

The young people located on the Nicol homestead, which is the property of the husband. In 1884, Mr. Nicol bought the farm which he now owns on section 12, in the same township, which contains 160 acres. The homestead includes 175 acres, and the estate on section 19 comprises 105 acres, a total of 440 acres. Mr. Nicol is engaged in mixed husbandry. He and his wife are the parents of one child, William Ira.

H. Black, a gentleman of push and energy among the numerous citizens of his vocation, that of a farmer, resides on section 14, Tompkins Township. He was born in Greene Co., Ohio, June 16, 1823, his parents being William and Elizabeth (George) Black, natives of Virginia and Pennsylvania respectively. The parents were married in Greene County, Ohio, and there.the father followed the occupation of a farmer until 1838, when he came to this State and located at Monmouth, this county, and where he remained for about three years. He was consequently a pioneer of this county, and was here to see the broad and uncultivated prairie lands in their original condition. He remained at Monmouth for the time stated and then moved to Henderson County, where, near Olena, he purchased 80 acres of land. Here he located with his family and was engaged in his chosen vocation until his death, which occurred in 1858. His wife survived him until 1885. Their family comprised nine children, five sons and four daughters.

A. H. Black, whose name stands at the head of this notice, was the second in order of birth of his parents' children, and remained on the old homestead, assisting his father in the labors of the farm, until he attained his 28th year. At this age in life, he left the parental roof-tree and went forth to battle against the trials of life alone, hoping to procure a competency. He at first rented land, and for three years was engaged in farming in that manner, when he purchased a farm of his own, consisting of 80 acres, in close proximity to the village of Olena. On this land he located and passed his years in labor until 1864. He then sold it and came to Kirkwood, and purchased a lot and residence there, where he resided for two years, when he sold his village property and bought 60 acres on section 14, Tompkins Township, on which he removed and there resided until 1880. During this year he rented his farm and again moved into Kirkwood, where he lived four years. At the expiration of that time he moved back on his farm and has resided there ever since. He is engaged in general farming, having been brought up to that calling, and following it the major portion of his life is consequently possessed of that knowledge of agriculture which enables him to make a success of it.

The marriage of Mr. Black to Miss Martha Rankin took place Jan. 16, 1851. She was a native of Indiana, where she was born, May 27, 1832. Her parents were Joseph and Lutitia (Brown) Rankin, natives of Ohio and Pennsylvania respectively. They came to this State in 1837 and purchased land in Henderson County, and lived there until the latter's death, in r847- Mr. Rankin went to Kansas after] his wife's death, and was there engaged in farming until Nov. i, r878, when he crossed the river to meet! his companion in the land of the hereafter.

In politics, Mr. Black is a strong advocate of thej principles of the Republican party, with which party he always casts his vote. He and his wife are the' parents of one child - Melissa, who is the wife of James Riggs, and by whom she has had four children, who have been named, Cora, Edna, Hugh O. and Albert G. Mrs. Black is a member of the United Presbyterian Church, with which she united at the age of 18 years, and has since been a consistent member in good standing. She first united with that branch of the Church known as Seceders, but joined with the union of the Seceders and Associate Reformed when they united.

William Stark, one of the leading business men of Kirkwood and who is engaged in the drug trade, is a native of Scotland. His father, James Stark, came to America in 1835, and settled in Hancock Co., 111., where he died the following year. His mother^ Mary (Drown) Stark, died in Scotland. William re- mained with his parents until their death, when, in company with his brother, and sister, he moved on the farm in Hancock County, where they lived until 1849. At that time William engaged as a clerk in his brother's store a: Augusta, 111., where he remained until 1856, when he went to Plymouth, and clerked for three years. He then returned to the farm where he remained for two years longer, when we again find him in his brother's store at Augusta. He remained there until 1862, when he enlisted in Co. K, ngth 1)1. Vol. Inf., and served for 14 months, most of which time was spent in a Rebel prison. He was captured at Rutherford, Tenn., and remained a prisoner nine months, when he was exchanged, and being sick, was honorably discharged. He returned to his home in Augusta, where he remained until 1867, when he came to Kirkwood and embarked in the drug business, and is now recognized as one of the most prominent business men and influential citizens of the place. He owns a fine brick store on Kirk street and carries the largest stock of drugs in the village.

In 1866, the marriage of Mr. Stark and Miss Ellen Douglass occurred. She is a native of Kentucky, and a daughter of Joseph and Catherine (Eckels) Douglass. One child blessed this union, which died in infancy. Mr. Stark is a Republican in political faith and a member of the Christian Church, and also belongs to the G. A. R.

[ heodore C. Pearce, a farmer, residing on section 20, Berwick Township, was born in the same township of which he is at present a resident, March 9, 1843. He remained with his parents until he was 23 years old, - working on his father's farm, attending the district schools and supplementing his education by an attendance of one year at Monmouth College, and a course of two years at Knox College. He is the son of Andrew G. Pearce, a native of Ohio, having been born in Champaign County, that State, Nov. 16, 1816. The father came to this State in 1830, and located at Pekin, 111., where he remained one year, then came to this county, and located in Berwick

Township, being one of the pioneer settlers of that township as well as one of the pioneers of Warren County. He married Miss Eliza Powers, May 28, 1840. She was born Jan. 19, 1819, near Cincinnati, the "Buckeye State." Her parents are both deceased, having died in Greenbush Township.

The parents of our subject had a family comprising four children, as follows: Martha J., born March 28, 1841 ; Theodore C., of whom we write, Mary C., March 18, 1848, and George T., July i, 1855. Both of the girls are deceased.

Mr. Pearce, of this notice, was united in marriage with Miss Susan Baldwin, who was likewise born in this township, Dec. 13, 1848. Her parents were A. N. Baldwin, born in New York, July 20, 1822, and Phebe A. (Lewis) Baldwin, born July 9, 1826. Her father died Dec. 2, 1873. He was married in 1844, and his wife still survives him. Their children were 12 in number, - Mary Ann, Arthur N., Susan A., Aletta A., Sarah E., Mary L, Charles L., Lgnnettie, Phebe J., John, Minnie A. and Anna G. Five of the ^ above are deceased, namely: Mary A., Arthur N., Aletta A., Sarah E. and John M.

The date of the marriage of Mr. Pearce and Miss Baldwin was Dec. 19, 1866, Rev. F. Smith, of the Methodist Episcopal Church, officiating, and of their union eight children have been born, of which . the following is"a record, - Alice M., born May 27, 1868; Ida G., July n, 1870; May A., May 2, 1872; Arthur E., Feb. 16, 1874; Eva L., Aug. ir, 1876; Fred G., March 9, 1879 ; Ralph E., June ir, 1881 and Bessie, May 29, 1883, all of whom are living. Mr. Pearce has 160 acres of good farm land in this county, on which is a good dwelling, 66x24 feet in dimensions and two stories in height. Its interior is handsomely finished, while its exterior surroundings are of a character which constitute it an exceedingly charming place of residence. His substantial barn is 40 x 42 feet with i8-foot posts, the entire farm being enclosed with a good wire and board fence. His stock is kept in first-class condition and two roadsters which he owns are of a very fine strain.

Socially, Mr. Pearce is a member of the A. F. and A. M., belonging to Cameron Lodge, No. 625, to to which he has belonged for some 15 years, and in which order he has held many of the important offices. He is also a member of the I. O. O. F., belonging to Lodge No. 185, Abingdon. Religiously, he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcor

Eliphalet Lewis, the grandfather of Mrs. Pearce, was born in New Jersey, May n, 1799, and during his early life engaged in the occupation of oysterfishing near Amboy. He came to Illinois irv 1837, and for a few years resided near Springfield. He then located in Warren County,- and made the first improvements on the farm now occupied by Mr. Pearce, and upon which he continued to reside until his death, June 25,1867. He married Miss Mary A. Mills, May 24, 1823. She was born July 21, 1806, and bore her husband five children, viz.: Henry, born in February, 1824; Phebe A., July 9, 1826; Mary A., July 3, 1838; Susan E., Oct. 12, 1841, and Thomas P., Aug. 12, 1843, all of whom are living.

| obert W. Gerlaw, one of the largest landowners in Warren County and a prominent example of what may be accomplished by a straightforward, energetic and determined man, is the founder of the village of Gerlaw, near where he resides. He is a native of Greene Co., Ohio, where he was born on the 4th of March, 1817. Adam and Catherine (Haines) Gerlaw, his parents, had a family of ten children, of whom Robert W. was the fifth child in order of birth. Adam Gerlaw was born in Washington Co., Md., about the year 1781. His father's name was also Adam, who was a native of Germany. He came to this country and settled in the Colony of South Carolina prior to the Revolutionary War. He enlisted in the service of his adopted country in that heroic conflict for American liberty, and bore an honorable part in aiding to establish our independence and laying the foundations of the splendid institutions that we now enjoy. At the close of that war he removed to Maryland, and about the year 1808, with his family, became pioneers of Greene Co., Ohio. Here he died about 1821. To him is due the credit of establishing this branch of the Gerlaw family on American soil. No language can picture the hardships and suffering of the pioneer of that early period, which was the price paid for the blessings we enjoy to-day in this country. His wife, the grandmother of Robert W., was for a short time a prisoner in the hands of the Indians, but was liberated after the treaty of Greenville.

Adam Gerlaw, Jr., as was observed, was born in Maryland, where he was married, and with his father removed to Greene Co., Ohio, and, like the elder Gerlaw, became a prominent pioneer of that section. Here the family cleared a patch of ground, built the accustomed log cabin and engaged in farming in a crude way. They likewise endured such privations and hardships as were incident to life in a new country of that day. The Gerlaws have always been an energetic and industrious people. Adam became, for that period, a very successful farmer and stockraiser. He was a man of a kind heart and sterling character, and greatly beloved by his family. The following incident will illustrate their attachment for him: His first seven children were sons, and they all remained with him, aiding him in his farming and other operations till all of them attained the . years of manhood, and it was in a large measure owing to their united efforts that he acquired his wealth. He continued to own his property, both personal and real, until his death, when it was inherited by his children. He was a soldier in the War of 1812, and in that struggle nobly did his part in upholding the national honor which his father had fought to attain. Politically, he was a Whig, and always opposed to the institutions of slavery. He was a member of the German Lutheran Church, and his wife, Catherine Haines, who was also descended from German parentage, worshiped with him. They had ten children, all of whom reached the years of maturity, and eight of whom are living at this writing (January, 1886). Those deceased are David and Adam. Those living are Jacob, Otho, Robert W., Arthur, Jonathan, Francis Catherine (wife of Benjamin Clark), Henry Harrison, and Jane, wife of Emanuel Hawker. Mrs. Gerlaw, mother of Robert W., died in 1852, at their residence in Greene Co., Ohio. Her husband died while on a vist to his son, Robert W., in this county, in 1857.

Robert W., the, subject of this sketch, was educated in the log school house in the neighborhood where his parents resided. Such educational advantages, as we might infer, were very meager. He has, however, supplemented them by careful reading and study, so that to-day we find him to be a gentlemen well versed on the important questions of the hour. In conversation he is most interesting, with a vein of humor pervading his remarks which makes them piquant and pleasing to listen to. In the autumn of 1850 he came to Warren County, and for about 16 months worked on a farm. He was then married to Mary Jane Black, who was the daughter of Jonathan and Abagail Black, who were both natives of Pennsylvania and of Irish extraction. The above named union took place March 16, 1852, and the August following they moved upon the farm where they now reside. Mr. G. had previously erected a house there, which is on section 34, Spring- Grove Township.

Mr. and Mrs. Gerlaw have had born to them five children namely: Robert Dayton (deceased), Ella M., Mary Abagail, Sarah and Frank L. Those liv- 'ing all reside at home. Mr. Gerlaw has given them the advantages of a good education and many privileges which he did not enjoy. His wife is a member of the Presbyterian Church.

In politics, Mr. Gerlaw was first a Whig, and on - the formation of the Republican party became identified with it, since which time he has been a supporter of its principles. He voted both times for Abraham Lincoln, with whom he was well acquainted, and twice for Grant. During the late Slave-holders' Rebellion, he was a staunch Union man. He was elected several terms Supervisor for Spring Grove Township, and during the war acted as agent in selling the township bonds to raise money to pay the bounty for the soldiers required to fill its quota. He also went to Quincy, where he hired a number of substitutes.

Mr. Gerlaw began life with but little of this world's goods, in fact, about all he did possess was his strong arms and abundance of energy, and thus equipped, he set out, with the help of his good wife, to carve out that success which has since crowned their efforts. By dint of good jugment in making investments, he has succeeded in accumulating for himself and family a very handsome competency. Later in life upon the death of his father, he inherited $10,000, which he invested in a judicious manner. He also owns- a fine farm of 1,300 acres in Nemaha Co., Neb., which is fenced and well stocked with good graded cattle and supplied with comfortable buildings.

In May, 187 i, Mr. Gerlaw laid out the town which is named in his honor, and which is situated on a portion of the home farm and on the line of the Rockford, Rock Island & St. Louis Railroad, now the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad. The village is in a growing condition, enjoys considerable trade and is a place from which a great deal of stock is annually shipped. It is well supplied with schools and churches and is quite prosperous. A fine bird'seye-view of the town, as well as a view of the handsome residence and surroundings of Mr. Gerlaw's home, is shown by a well executed engraving on an adjoining page. The act of founding this village will cause the name of Robert Gerlaw to be long remembered by the people of this county, and he deservedly merits the respect in which he is held by his fellow citizens.

}: uben Holeman, engaged in farming on section 32, Roseville Township, was born in Indiana, Jan. 20, 1817. His parents, Isaac and Nancy (Cleghorn) Holeman, were natives of North Carolina, and the mothers 's demise occurred while in Jackson Co., Ind. The father came to Illinois in 1848 and settled in Swan Township, where he engaged quite extensively in agricultural pursuits, and became the father of eight children, seven of whom still survive.

Ruben Holeman remained at home assisting his father in the labors on the farm, and alternating his labors thereon by attendance at the common schools until he attained his 2ist year. At that age in life he began farming for himself on a rented farm, which he continued for two years, and, in 1847, came to Illinois and settled in Geenbush Township, this county, then, in 1849, removed to Roseville Township and purchased too acres on section 32, and lived on the same seven years. He then sold it and purchased 437 acres of land, some of it being located in Swan Township. He now resides on section 32 Roseville Township, where he has erected a fine residence, with suitable outbuildings and made all his improvements.

native of Indiana and daughter of James and Paulina (Thelkeld) Crab, natives of Kentucky, who engaged in the occupation of farming in Indiana, where they resided until their death. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Holeman consists of eight children, all of whom are living - John VV., Daniel B., Ugriah C., Isaac A., Theodore, Albert A., Orville L. and Eliza Ann. Eliza A. is the wife of Isaac Perkins, and they are the parents of seven children ; Daniel B. married Harriet Smith, and they have become the parents of two children ; John W. married Mary, Hosier and they have one child ; Uriah C. married Usitta Rowland, and they have a family of two children ; Theodore married Ida Carr, and their family consists of two children.'

Mr. Holeman has held the office of Assessor, Road Commissioner, Collector, and School Trustee. He and his wife are members of the Christian Church, and he is considered one of the solid and substantial men of Warren County. Politically he affiliates with the Democratic party.

K%tephen Dixson, deceased, was formerly a resident of the township of Point Pleasant. He was born in Preble Co., Ohio, Dec. 21, 1814, and was the son of Eli and Rebecca (Hart) Dixson. His parents removed to Indiana when he was four years old and he there grew to the estate of manhood. He was trained in the pursuit of agriculture, and was married in the Hoosier State. The lady whom he married was the sister of the wife of his brother, Eli, and was Miss Amanda, the daughter of Drury B. and Rebecca (Hurd) Boyd. In 1854 her parents came from Greene County to Warren County, and located on section i, in Point Pleasant Township. The husband had previously purchased there a considerable tract of unimproved land, and made it his home until his death, which took place March i, 1879. His wife died May 3, 1861. He was a man of industrious habits, and at the time of his decease was the owner of upwards of 600 acres of valuable farming lands.

B. is a resident of Bushnell, McDonough Co., 111. Margaret was born Oct. 27, 1855, and was the wife of Andrew L. Madison. She died in March, 1879, leaving two children. Elizabeth is the wife of Alexander Elston, and they reside in Kansas.

Mr. Dixson was prominent in his defense of morality and temperance and liberal in his religious views. He enjoyed the respect and esteec fellowmen in the community of which he yfas a ber.

(rury B. Boyd, a pioneer settler at Point Pleasant Township, was born in the State of Virginia, May 12, 1780. He was the son of George and Jemima (Birge) Boyd, and was early orphaned by their deaths. He was made an apprentice to a trade, and when still young went to the State of Georgia. There he was married to Elizabeth, the daughter of George and Nancy (Dean) Hurd. She was born in Georgia and soon after their marriage they went to Kentucky, where they located in Bath County and the husband utilized his good education in teaching and in the alternate seasons he worked at his trade. They lived there until 1822, when they went to Pulaski County, in the same State, and remained there until 1825. They removed thence to Greene Co., Ind., where they were among the earliest of the pioneer element. They located on land which was covered with heavy timber and their two sons were occupied with the work of clearing the farm, while the father worked at his trade. After a time he purchased a saw-mill. His wife died Aug. 14, 1835, and he was again married, about two years later, to Elizabeth Kelshaw.

The children of George and Nancy (Dean) Hurd were Mary, George, Elizabeth and Nancy. Mary was married to Joseph Dixson and died in Greene Co., Ind. George is married and lives in Georgia. Elizabeth was the wife of Drury B. Boyd, subject of this sketch. Nancy became the wife of Sanford Raimy, and they live in Preble Co., Ohio.

While living in Indiana he was twice elected to represent his District and served two terms in the Legislature of that State. After his removal to Warren County, he located at Ellison and a few years later settled on section 2, of Point Pleasant Township, where he died, Sept. 7, 1856. His wife was, killed in the tornado at Ellison in 1858. Two of their children are still living. Mrs. Dixson is represented elsewhere in this work, and it is through her interest in the preservation of the records of her family circle that these sketches of the members of the family haye been obtained. Her only sister is the wife of Elisha Hughen, of Point Pleasant Township, of whom a sketch is given in this work.

Mr. Boyd and his family made the trip from Kentucky to Greene County with horse-teams. They settled in a small log house, of the. most unpretentious style, until the father could clear a place, upon which he erected a double-hewed log house.

errine Holman, a farmer residing on section 21, Tompkins Township, where he is actively engaged in the labors of Jiis vocation, is a native of New Jersey, having been born in that State, Aug. 20, 1819, of parents named Kenneth and Sarah (Jemison) Holman, natives of the same State. Perrine Holman was an inmate of his father's household until lie attained the age of 22 years, and received a good education in the common schools. Arriving at the age named, he set out to battle against the trials ^of life alone, with naught but strong arms and a firm determination to " get on " in the world. He first worked out by the month and was engaged in accumulating in that manner for five years. He then embarked in the oyster trade, and followed that for five years, when he rented a farm, which he cultivated for another period of five years. At the expiration of this time, in 1853, he came to this State and located in Henderson County, where he purchased 40 acres of land, on which he moved and was actively and laboriously engaged in its cultivation for four years. He then sold his land in Henderson County and moved to Tompkins Township, this county, where he purchased another 4o-acre tract on which he moved his family and where he is to-day residing, meeting with success in his vocation.

took place in 1844. She was also a native of New Jersey. The second marriage of Mr. Holman was with Mrs. Annett Star, a native of New York State, and took place Oct. 6, 1881. She came West in 1875. By her first marriage with Mr. Star six children were born, three of whom are living and three are dead. The living children are Emery A., Susan E. and Elmer R. Star, and by the latter union, one child, Alida M. Holman, was born. In politics, Mr. Holman is a Greenbacker, and is one of the successful farmers of Tompkins Township.

mery H. Crandall, Supenntendent of the County Infirmary, located in Lenox Township, Warren County, is a son of Richard and Sybil (Armstrong) Crandall, natives of New York and Wisconsin respectively. They married and settled in the Keystone State, and in March, 1860, came to Warren County, locating in Lenox Township, but removed to Monmouth in the fall of 1871, where they still reside. Five children were born to them, as follows : Melvina J., Emery H., Martha, Armstrong and Lydia A.

Emery H., of whom this personal sketch is written, was born in Erie Co., Pa., Aug. 8, 1843, and remained at home, receiving a good common-school education and assisting his father on the farm, thus fully initiating him in the arts of agriculture, and accompanied his parents to Warren County. He has since been a resident of this county with the exception of about ten months spent in the army. He purchased land at different times until he is now the proprietor of 240 acres, which, through his excellent knowledge of improving and cultivating, he has all under an advanced state of cultivation, and it is considered second to none in his township.

July 26, 1862, Mr. Crandall enlisted in Co. C, 83d 111. Vol. Inf., in which he served for about ten months, being discharged at Cairo, this State, on account of disability. He then returned to the more peaceful pursuit of agriculture.

ing a native of Crawford Co., Pa., having been born there March 18, 1848. Her parents, Peter and Lamira (Woods) Williams, were both natives of the Keystone State, and in the year 1856, emigrated westward to Warren County, this State, and located in Roseville Township. They afterward removed to Iowa and from there to Kansas, where the father, Mr. Williams, died, March 1 1, 1880. The mother still survives. They had become the parents of n children, namely : Sarah L., Margaret E., William S., Cyrus, Kate (our subject's wife), Robert, Theodore, Alice, Carson, Chester and Estella. Mr. and Mrs. Emery H. Crandall's home has been blessed with the birth of four children, the names of whom are Archie, Minnie E., Francis E. and Maude G.

Mr. Crandall has served his township as School Trustee for six years, also as School Director, and in December, 1884, was appointed to take charge of the County Infirmary in Lenox Township, in which are from 25 to 40 inmates. Mr. Crandall and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and, in politics, Mr. C. affiliates with the Republican party.

Chancy Hardin. Prominent among the names of men who, by their energy, good judgment and perseverance, laid broad and deep in her pioneer days, the foundation for the subsequent growth, development and material prosperity of Warren County, stands the name of Chancy Hardin.* Occupying as he has for the last 45 years, close business relations with the citizens of the county, and being conspicuouous among the few far-sighted men who early appreciated the importance of railroads in promoting the settlement of a new country, and the consequent benefits resulting therefrom, it is not, therefore a matter of comment to find Mr. Hardin one of the trio who were in the van of the railroad builders in this county.

Mr. Hardin of this notice is the second son of Chancy and Anna (Gates) Hardin, and was born Jan. 15, 1815, in Richfield, Otsego Co., N. Y. He is descended from a long line of English ancestry, the father of Mr. Hardin used the "g" in his name in the early part of his life, but left it off about the same time as his son Chancy did. The other sou, Harry G., retains the " g."

family being transplanted to America by Nathan Hardin, who landed at Cape Cod in the year 1640. His grandson, Chancy Hardin, was born at Middle Haddam, Conn., Jan. 8, 1775, and died at Iowa Falls, Dec. u, 1876. His first wife, the mother of Chancy, the subject of this sketch, was also born at Middle Haddam, n years later than her husband, and died at Richfield, Otsego Co., N. Y., April 6, 1819, whither they had previously removed. Of their union, there were only two sons who lived to attain the age of maturity, both of whom yet survive, Harry G. and Chancy. Some time after tbe death of his first wife, Mr. Hardin married Miss Sally Martin, who was born in Olsego Co., N. Y., Nov. 3, 1794, and who died at Iowa Falls, Iowa, in April, 1885. By the last marriage, three daughters were born, - Mary Ann, wife of Justin Soule ; Fidelia, wife of A. E. Arnold; Arzelia, wife of S. P. Smith, all of « horn are living. The elder Hardin came to Illinois in 1858; the next year moved to Iowa Falls, Iowa, where two of the daughters reside, and the ' other is living in Battle Creek, Mich.

Chancy Hardin spent his boyhood days on his' father's farm, and his early education was acquired** in the common schools of the neighborhood. When 1 about the age of 21, he began clerking in a store in Burlington Flats, Otsego Co., N. Y., and continued in that position about two and a half years. He served the first six months for his board; the second six months for board and $10 per month, after which he received $35 per month for his services. Desiring to better his financial condition in life, he concluded to come West, and soon started, landing at Monmouth, July 4, 1840. From his home in New York he went to Chicago, via the canal and lakes, and from the latter city his conveyance to this place was by means of a two-horse farm wagon, the time required to make the journey being three weeks. A few months after reaching Monmouth. he was employed in the store of James E. Hogue at a salary of $35 per month.

In August, 1840, Mr. Hardin and wife began housekeeping, and as it may be interesting to the reader of the present day to learn something in regard to the inconveniences and privations of the early settlers, we deem it appropos to give something in detail in regard to their early housekeeping. Mr. Hardin relates that their table consisted of a drygoods box ; dry-goods boxes were used for stools and one for a cupboard, with a curtain in front for doors. This will illustrate to some extent the prudent methods of Mr. Hardin and wife when they began housekeeping. Though he had at that time $800 in currency, the careful economy thus practiced and adhered to through a long life is no doubt the true reason of the success which has attended his efforts. After clerking for a time for Mr. Hogue, he sold out the remnant of the goods ot auction for his employer, after which he accepted the appointment of Deputy Sheriff and Constable for one year.

In the spring of 1843, Mr. Hardin moved on a farm of 640 acres, located in Tompkins Township, a part of which he had previously purchased and the balance leased. By additional purchases he increased his landed interests to 1,000 acres, and continued farming, stock-raising and feeding until 1850, when he sold the land for $12 per acre on ten years' time at six per cent, interest. In the fall of 1850, Mr. Hardin moved to Monmouth, where he has since resided. His business since that time has almost exclusively been devoted to loaning money and dealing in real estate, in which he has been eminently successful.

In 1853, in company with Gen. A. C. Harding and Judge Ivory Quinby, Mr. Hardin built the railroad from Burlington to Knoxville, and, after completing and operating it for about six months, they sold it to the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad Company. They took the contract originally to build and equip the road, that is, to make the bed, bridges, tie and iron it and to put in side-tracks, for $13,500 per mile. They carried out the contract, which seems a remarkably low figure, but the railroad company failing to furnish the money to them as per estimates agreed upon, a second arrangement was entered into, by which the railroad company furnished the iron at the rate of $5.000 per mile, except the bottom division of seven and a half miles, which the contractors built at a cost of $18,400 per mile. Messrs. Hardin & Co.. knowing the route beforehand that the road would take, purchased such tracts of land as were desirable for town sites, and thereby made considerable money by the laying out of towns and the sale of lots, and also on the land they owned lying adjacent to the town. They laid out the South Addition to the city of Monmouth, and were also the founders of the towns of Kirkwood and Riggsville. The above comprises the railroad