Will County, Illinois - The whole text, 1928 (part 9 of 14)

Carl H. Muehlenpfordt. - As president of the First National Bank of Lockport, C. H. Muehlenpfordt ranks among the representative business men of Will County. He was born at Ashkum, 111., May 21, 1885, the son of Dr. August and Henrietta (Gerdes) Muehlenpfordt.

Dr. August A. Muehlenpfordt, deceased, was for more than half a century a leading physician and surgeon of Iroquois County, 111. He was born in Germany and came to the United States in 1866. For a short time he lived at Joliet, but later removed to Ashkum, in Iroquois County. Dr. Muehlenpfordt also owned a drug business at that place. He was a Democrat and served as postmaster for many years. Dr. Muehlenpfordt died June 13, 1925, at the age of 86 years, and his wife died in 1923. Both are buried at Ashkum. To Dr. and Mrs. Muehlenpfordt were born five children, of whom C. H., the subject of this sketch, was the youngest.

Carl H. Muehlenpfordt received his early schooling at Ashkum, and in 1901 was graduated from high school. He was a member of the graduating class of Grand Prairie Seminaiy at Onarga, 111., in 1905. He began his business career as a clerk in a grocery store, and for three months was employed at a salary of $33 per month. He became interested in banking in the capacity of bookkeeper for the Ashkum Bank, and later went to Mitchell, South Dakota, where he served as teller and bookkeeper for the Commercial Savings Bank until the organization of the First National Bank of Lockport in 1907, at which time he came to this city. He has filled every office in the bank except that of vice president and is well known in banking circles throughout the state of Illinois.

Carl H. Muehlexpfordt

president; and C. H. Muehlenpfordt, cashier. The directors were: Leon MacDonald, Philip Yost, C. H. Muehlenpfordt, E. J. Murphy, W. A. Murphy, W. D. Heise, Acker Ruland, and Frank A. Rowley.

The officers of the First National Bank of Lockport in 1928 are: C. H. Muehlenpfordt, president ; Philip Yost, vice president ; A. P. Dailey, cashier; and Leo P. Ward, assistant cashier. The directors are: Healy H. Alexander, A. P. Dailey, C. H. Muehlenpfordt, W. R. Paddock, Edward T. Winkler and Philip Yost.

S. V. Donna, well known throughout Will County as the capable young postmaster of Braidwood, is a veteran of the World War and a member of one of the oldest families of this section of Illinois. He was born at Braidwood, May 14, 1889, the son of Joseph and Lucile (Costello) Donna.

Joseph Donna, deceased, was a native of Italy. In 1843 he emigrated to the United States and settled at Braidwood, where he was employed in the coal mines. He died Dec. 14, 1914, and is buried in the Catholic Cemetery at Braidwood. His widow lives in this city. Mr. Donna was a Republican and a member of the Catholic Church. The following children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Donna: Peter, deceased; M. J., lives at Braidwood; Catherine, married William Costello, lives at LaSalle, 111.; Nellie, married John Cairns, lives at Gillespie, 111. ; G. J., lives at Braidwood ; S. V., the subject of this sketch ; Josephine, married Charles Stolp, Jr., lives at Cincinnati, Ohio; and Rose, married James Riva, lives at Spring Valley, 111.

The education of S. V. Donna was obtained in the public schools of Braidwood. He entered the coal mines as a miner and spent eight years in that work, at the same time pursuing his education. Later, Mr. Donna entered Valparaiso University in Indiana. He spent eight years in the employ of the Illinois Steel Company at Joliet and in April, 1917, volunteered for service in the World war. He was sent to Camp Wil- liamson, Portland, Me., and was assigned to the 72nd C. A. C. He served in France for eight months and was discharged from Camp Grant, 111., on March 26, 1918. He returned to his former employment with the Illinois Steel Company in Joliet, where he remained until Jan. 13, 1923. Since that date he has been postmaster of Braidwood, being appointed during the administration of President Harding and reappointed during the Coolidge administraton.

Mr. Donna is a Republican, a member of the Catholic Church, and belongs to the Knights of Columbus. He was one of the organizers of the local post of the American Legion and takes an active part in its affairs. Mr. Donna is unmarried.

Thomas L. Francis is one of the best known insurance men of Will County, having engaged in this work at Braidwood for almost 30 years, and having succeeded to the business of his father, David Francis, which was established in 1880. Mr. Francis was born at Braidwood, Aug. 22, 1872, the son of David and Rachel (Bowen) Francis.

David Francis was born in Wales, Feb. 22, 1846. Early in life he came to this country and settled at Braidwood, where he spent the remainder of his life. In 1880 he organized the insurance business in partnership with John H. Ward, and four years later purchased the latter's interest. He continued in this business until his death, which occurred June 21, 1901. He is buried in Oakwood Cemetery, Braidwood. On Oct. 8, 1871, Mr. Francis married Miss Rachel Bowen, who was born in Wales, July 4, 1855. She died April 13, 1919, and is buried at Braidwood. Mr. Francis was a Republican, and served as tax collector and alderman, as well as city attorney of Braidwood. He was a member of the Methodist Church and belonged to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Nine children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Francis, as follows: Thomas L., the subject of this sketch; Elizabeth, the widow of John McKenzie, lives in Chicago; John, Alfred, and David, all deceased; William, lives in Chicago; Alice, married Earnest Barrett, lives at Braidwood; Jennie, married Allen Cherrie, lives at Coal City, 111. ; and Arthur J., lives at Joliet.

Thomas L. Francis has always lived in Braidwood. When ten years of age he went to work in the coal mines. He became interested in his father's insurance business in July 1899, and at the time of the latter's death, he succeeded to the business. Mr. Francis is also inter-

On Feb. 25, 1896, Mr. Francis was united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth Milner, who was born in England, Aug. 23, 1869. They have a son, Edwin G., who was born Dec. 6, 1896. He is connected with the Illinois Bell Telephone Company in charge of the Lemont district. He is a veteran of the World War, and was married on May 19, 1924, to Miss Loretta Roderick, of Joliet.

Mr. Francis is a Republican and has served as township assessor and tax collector. He is a member of the Methodist Church and is affiliated with the Masonic Lodge, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and Knights of Pythias.

Truby Hynd is among the enterprising young business men of Braidwood, where he is identified with the Hynd Bottling Works. He was born here, July 7, 1902, the son of James and Elizabeth (Ross) Hynd.

James Hynd and his wife were natives of Scotland. Shortly after their marriage they came to the United States and settled at Braidwood, where Mr. Hynd organized the Hynd Bottling Works more than 40 years ago. He died in June, 1921, and his wife died July 27, 1928. They are buried in the Wilmington Cemetery. Mr. Hynd was a Republican and a member of the Presbyterian Church. He also belonged to the Masonic Lodge and Modern Woodmen of America. To Mr. and Mrs. Hynd were born two sons: Truby, the subject of this sketch; and Marshall, who is also identified with the Hynd Bottling Works.

Truby Hynd grew up at Braidwood and received his education in the public schools. Throughout his life he has been associated with the business which was established by his father so many years ago. He and his brother are now sole owners of the enterprise.

In 1923 Mr. Hynd was united in marriage with Miss Bernice Underwood, who was born in Grundy County, 111., Oct. 16, 1905, the daughter of Martin and Elizabeth (Dunn) Underwood. Mr. and Mrs. Underwood, born in Grundy County, were the parents of the following children: Mabel, married William Taylor, lives in Nebraska; George, lives at Wilmington ; Molly, married Charles Trimple, lives at Pekin, 111. ; Bessie, married James Allen, lives at Galesburg, 111.; Bernice Hynd; Lawrence, student; and Stella, deceased. Mr. Underwood is a well known farmer of Custer Township, Will County, where he is the owner of 160 acres of land. Mr. and Mrs. Hynd have a son, Dean Truby, who was born June 10, 1924.

Dominick Cinotto is well and favorably known at Braidwood, where he has spent his entire life. He was born Nov. 19, 1881, the son of Anton and Madeline (Fassino) Cinotto.

Anton Cinotto was born in Italy and came to the United States in 1879. He located at Braidwood, where he was employed in the coal mines. Later he established a grocery business at Center and Main streets, which he owned for a quarter of a century. He was also the owner of 160 acres of well improved land in North Dakota. Mr. Cinotto died in August, 1917, and is buried at Wilmington. His widow lives at Braidwood. Mr. Cinotto was a Republican, a member of the Catholic Church, and belonged to the Knights of Pythias and American Order of Foresters. Eight children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Cinotto, as follows: Dominick, the subject of this sketch; Simon, lives at Wilmington; Mary, married John Jeffry, lives at Joliet; Catherine, unmarried, lives at Joliet ; Rose, married Bernard Callahan, lives near Custer, 111. ; John, lives at Braidwood ; Anna, lives at home ; and Lucy, married Timothy Murphy, lives at Joliet.

Dominick Cinotto received his education in the public schools of Braidwood and was employed in his father's grocery store as a clerk for a period of 25 years. He then was connected with the signal department of the M. C. & A. Railroad for a short time, after which he entered the employ of Peter Rossi & Sons, of Braidwood. While employed in their factory he met with a serious accident and suffered the loss of his right arm in November, 1923. After his recovery, Mr. Cinotto went with the Chicago & Alton Railroad in 1925 as crossing watchman. He served as city commissioner from 1922 until 1926, and as deputy sheriff for four years. In 1922 Mr. Cinotto was elected supervisor of Reed Township and he still serves in that capacity. The family residence is on South Center Street.

On Nov. 16, 1909, Mr. Cinotto was united in marriage with Miss Margaret Pommatto, who was born at Braidwood, July 9, 1887, the daughter of Joseph and Marie (Falletti) Pommatto, natives of Italy and early settlers of Braidwood. Mr. Pommatto lives retired at LaSalle,

111. His wife died May 20, 1916, and is buried at Braidwood. There are seven children in the Pommatto family, as follows: Steven, lives at LaSalle ; Kate, married Dominick Berta, lives in Will County ; Emma, married Dominick Perardi, lives at LaSalle; Annie, married James Osborn, lives at Gillespie, 111. ; Mary, married Charles Dillon, lives at Braidwood; Margaret Cinotto; and Jennie, married John Wilson, lives at Wilmington. To Mr. and Mrs. Cinotto have been born two daughters: Beulah Rose, born Aug. 13, 1911, attends high school; and Madeline Marie, born Dec. 1, 1913, also attends high school.

S. L. Wylie is a leading figure among the successful business men of Plainfield, where he is engaged in the grocery and meat business. He was born on a farm in Joliet Township, Will County, Nov. 19, 1867, the son of William and Martha (Glascow) Wylie.

William Wylie, deceased, was a native of Ireland. About 1860 he emigrated to the United States and settled in Will County, where he engaged in general farming and stock raising. He met with success and became one of the prosperous men of Kendall County. He retired about 1907 and lived with his son, S. L., until the time of his death, which occurred in 1924, at the age of 84 years. To William and Martha (Glascow) Wylie were born seven children, as follows: Catherine, married George Williams, lives at Gardner, 111. ; William, lives in Chicago ; S. L., the subject of this sketch; Samuel James, lives in Chicago; Margaret, died in Los Angeles, Calif., was the wife of Charles Letson; John H., lives in Chicago; and Jesse C, lives at LaGrange, 111. The mother of these children, a native of Ireland, died in 1880 at the age of 39 years. Mr. Wylie was married the second time to Miss Catherine Fanning, a native of Massachusetts. She died in 1903. There were no children born to this union.

The boyhood of S. L. Wylie was spent on the farm in Kendall County and he received his education in the district schools. When 22 years of age Mr. Wylie went to Chicago, where he remained until 1893. He then located in Plainfield, where he became interested in the ice cream and candy business with his brother-in-law, William Upton. They continued this partnership for six years, and after disposing of his interest to Mr. Upton Mr. Wylie formed a partnership with Edwin Whitley. They conducted a grocery business together for twenty years and were also dealers in men's furnishings. In 1919 Mr. Wylie purchased the building in which his present business is located and since that date has conducted a grocery and meat business at that address. He is most successful in his business relations and has a well established trade.

On Sept. 5, 1893, Mr. Wylie was united in marriage with Miss Catherine Upton, of Chicago, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Upton, early settlers of Lockport and Plainfield. To them were born seven children, as follows: William Upton, merchant, lives at Wheaton, 111.; Martha, lives in Chicago ; Lawrence S., connected with the Chicago Telephone Company, lives in Joliet; Harold C, lives at Harvey, 111.; Allen James, attends the University of Illinois ; Catherine I., a teacher in the Plainfield schools ; and June B., attends the University of Illinois.

Mr. Wylie is a Republican and has held several public offices. He was village clerk for 12 years and in 1913 was elected mayor of Plainfield, which office he filled continuously for ten years. He has also served as township treasurer since 1912. Mr. Wylie and his family hold membership in the Congregational Church and he is affiliated with A. F. and A. M. Lodge No. 536, of which he has served as Past Master. He is also a charter member of the Knights of Pythias. Mr. Wylie has always been a public spirited citizen and takes an active interest in all civic affairs. He has served as President of the Plainfield Library Board since its organization and takes an active interest in it.

John N. Nelson is among the highly successful and widely known business men of Joliet, where he is interested in the insurance business as a representative for the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company. He was born at Campus, 111., July 12, 1883, the son of Ole and Matilda (Poison) Nelson.

Ole Nelson came to the United States from Sweden, where he was born, and settled in Livingston County, 111. In 1899 he removed to Braidwood, where he engaged in general farming and stock raising. While a resident of Campus, 111., he was the proprietor of a hotel. He now lives retired at Wilmington. Mr. Nelson is a Republican and has held several township offices. He and his wife are members of the Lutheran Church. They have four children: John N., the subject of this sketch ; Arthur H., cashier of the First National Bank, Braidwood ; Blenda, married A. P. Oswald, lives at Wilmington ; and Esther, married J. R. Patterson, lives at Braidwood.

John N. Nelson received his education in the public schools of Campus and for several years worked on his father's farm in Reed Township. He spent a year at Aberdeen, S. D., and upon his return to Will County located at Joliet, where he was employed by the Western United Gas & Electric Company for two years. Then he went with the Illinois Steel Company of South Chicago and served as a steel inspector for one year. He was identified with the Peoples Gas & Light Company, Chicago, for four years as an inspector, and in July, 1918, became associated with the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company as a salesman. He lives at Braidwood.

Politically, Mr. Nelson is identified with the Republican party. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and is affiliated with the Masonic Lodge and Knights of Pythias. He is secretary of the Reed Custer High School Board and is active in the civic and social life of Braidwood.

Patrick Muldowney, deceased, was a well known pioneer of Will County. He was born in Ireland and early in life came to the United States and settled at Pottsville, Pa. He enlisted in the Civil War at Tremont, Pa, in 1862 and served in Company H, 176th Volunteer Infantry. In 1866 he moved to Braidwood, 111., where he was employed in the coal mines. Later he served as Marshall of Braidwood for two years. He died in 1878 and is buried at Wilmington.

Mr. Muldowney married Miss Annie Delaney, a native of Pennsylvania, who died Sept. 27, 1927. She is buried at Wilmington. To Mr. and Mrs. Muldowney were born nine children, as follows: John, lives at Braidwood; Patrick; Mary; Thomas, who died in 1918; Alice, mention of whom is made below; and Joseph. All are residents of Braidwood. Edward, Luke and William, deceased.

Alice Muldowney was reared and educated at Braidwood, and for many years has been connected with the local schools as a teacher. She is now principal of the lower Braidwood schools. Her brother, John, has served as a member of the school board for a period of 40 years.

Dr. E. A. Kingston, who has been engaged in the practice of his profession at Lockport for the past 25 years, is among the leading physicians and surgeons of Will County. He was born in Ontario, Canada, Oct. 30, 1876.

The early education of E. A. Kingston was obtained in the public schools. He then attended Picton Collegiate Institute and in 1901 he was graduated from Queen's University at Kingston, Canada, and in 1903 received the degree of Doctor of Medicine from the University of Illinois. During that year he established his present practice in Lockport.

On Oct. 7, 1903, Dr. Kingston was united in marriage with Miss Lenna G. Burr, of Ontario, Canada. They have a daughter, Marjorie Burr Kingston, who was graduated from the University of Wisconsin in 1927.

Dr. Kingston is identified with the Will County Medical Society, Illinois State Medical Society, American Medical Association, and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He is a Republican and is affiliated with the Masonic Lodge. In 1920 Dr. Kingston was elected coroner of Will County, and reelected in 1924 to the same office, and was nominated for the office again in 1928.

Lee B. Overman, who is successfully engaged in the real estate and loan business at Plainfield, ranks high among the representative men of Will County. He was born on a farm in Muscatine County, Iowa, Oct. 23, 1854, the son of L. B. and Mary L. (Brock) Overman.

L. B. Overman, deceased, was a veteran of the Civil and Mexican Wars. He was born in southern Ohio in 1820 and died in Iowa in 1893. Mr. Overman went to Iowa in 1844 and followed general farming. He was also a cabinet maker. He served throughout the Civil War with a regiment from Iowa. His wife, a native of Canton, 111., died in 1913 at the age of 87 years. To Mr. and Mrs. Overman were born seven children, two of whom survive: Lee B., the subject of this sketch; and John W., who lives at Plainfield.

After completing his schooling in the district schools of Iowa, Lee B. Overman clerked in a store. He spent 25 years in the mercantile business. In 1879 came to Joliet, where he entered the employ of N. D. Dyer & Company, dry goods merchants. The following year he came to Plainfield, and spent ten years as a clerk for G. N. Chittenden & Company. He then engaged in the mercantile business and operated a store successfully here until the disastrous fire, which wiped out the entire northside of the street on which his store was located. The following year he again established a dry goods business in this city, which he conducted for five years. He then removed to Plainfield Township in 1897 and operated his wife's farm. Mr. Overman became one of the leading stockmen of the county and for 14 years was widely known as a breeder of Durham cattle and Duroc Jersey hogs. In 1911 he returned to Plainfield and since that date has been interested in the real estate and loan business. He makes a specialty of farm properties and handles the majority of land sales of this type in this section of the State.

On Nov. 6, 1884, Mr. Overman married Miss Harriet Hyland, who was born on a farm near Plainfield, March 23, 1864, the daughter of Granville and Mahalie (Cropsey) Hyland. The Hyland and Cropsey families are among the oldest families of Will County and are prominent citizens. Mr. and Mrs. Overman have two sons : Guy H. and Warren W. The latter resides in Indiana.

Guy H. Overman, a leading farmer of Plainfield Township, was born at Plainfield. He spent his boyhood here and is a graduate of Plainfield High School and Joliet Business College. He has managed the Hyland farm in Plainfield Township since 1911. He is extensively engaged in the dairy business and owns one of the finest herds of Jersey cattle in this part of the country.

Mr. Overman was married to Miss Maude Van Dyke, a native of Kendall County, 111., and the daughter of the late Sidney Van Dyke. They have five children : Robert, Van, Marcia, Harriet, and Wayne.

Avery F. Lambert, president of the Plainfield State Bank, is one of the prominent figures in the business life of Will County, and a man who is highly esteemed in the community in which he lives. He was born in Plainfield Township, Will County, April 25, 1864, the son of George and Kerenhappuch (Bird) Lambert.

George Lambert, deceased, was a prominent pioneer of Will County. He was born in Lincolnshire, England, July 1, 1829, and in the fall of 1849 made the voyage to this country from Liverpool, England. The entire trip to Lockport, 111., was made by water as it was before the time of the Chicago & Alton Railroad. Mr. Lambert worked as a farmhand for Squire Hamlin, and received $12.00 per month for his services. He saved his money and soon was able to purchase a small tract of land in Will County. Later he owned 80 acres in Plainfield Township and finally became the owner of 160 acres of fine farm land, which is now part of the Lambert estate. Mr. Lambert was living retired at the time of his death. His wife, who was born in England, in September, 1833, is also deceased. She was three years old when her family went to Canada and about 15 years later they came to Illinois and settled at Plainfield. Both Mr. and Mrs. Lambert were life long members of the Methodist Church. They were the parents of ten children, six of whom survive. Avery F., the subject of this sketch, was fifth in order of birth.

Avery F. Lambert grew up on his father's farm and attended the district schools. He also was a student at Northwestern College at Naperville, 111. Mr. Lambert followed farming until 1906 and then engaged in business at Plainfield. He has been connected with the Plainfield State Bank since May, 1913, and served as vice president of the institution from 1914 until 1924, at which time he was elected president.

On Sept. 14, 1892, Mr. Lambert was united in marriage with Miss Carrie E. Tyler, of Plainfield, the daughter of A. H. and Ann L. (Dunlap) Tyler, early settlers of Will County. Mr. Lambert died July 12, 1925, leaving a son, Burton A., who lives at Plainfield. He is employed by the Public Service Company. On Nov. 5, 1927, Mr. Lambert married Miss Vera B. Collett, of Lovington, 111.

Mr. Lambert has always been a Republican. He held the office of supervisor of Plainfield Township from 1913 until 1924 and has been active in local politics. He is a member of the Congregational Church and belongs to the Masonic Lodge.

The Plainfield State Bank. - Much of the essential banking history of the city of Plainfield is involved in the record of the Plainfield State Bank. It was organized in May, 1913, with a capital stock of $25,000, and began business on June 7, 1913. It was founded by Ralph N. Ballou and C. M. Wolf, and the first officers were: John Patterson, president; and Fred Haag, vice president. John Patterson was the predecessor of Charles Frazer, who served as president of the institution from

March 13, 1916, until his death in 1923. A. F. Lambert has occupied the presidency of the institution since March 17, 1924. J. A. Henebry was made honorary vice president.

On Feb. 25, 1914, the capital stock was increased to $50,000. The bank was located in a rented structure on Lockport Street in Plainfield until 1916 when it erected a modern bank building at a cost of $30,000. The present officers are: A. F. Lambert, president; R. M. Ballon, and J. A. Henebry, vice presidents; C. M. Wolf, cashier; Earl H. Van Dyke and Mrs. Lucy O'Toole, assistant cashiers.

W. H. Cryder. - One of the substantial citizens of Plainfield Township, is W. H. Cryder, who is president of the Plainfield Grain Company and a director of the Plainfield State Bank. He was born in Grundy County, 111., Oct. 28, 1860, the son of Henry and Mary E. (VanCleve) Cryder.

Henry Cryder was bom in Blair County, Pa., and his wife was a native of Trenton, N. J. He was 12 years old when his family came west and settled in Illinois, where he later engaged in general farming and stock raising. To Mr. and Mrs. Cryder were born four children: F. A., farmer, lives on the old homestead in Grundy County, 111.; W. H., the subject of this sketch; I. V., farmer, lives in Kendall County, 111.; and Mrs. Ella E. VanDyke, widow of Charles Albert Van Dyke, lives at Plainfield.

W. H. Cryder was educated in the district schools of Grundy County and in 1881 was graduated from the normal school at Morris, 111. He spent two years in the teaching profession and then engaged in general farming and stock raising in Kendall County, where he purchased 160 acres of land. In 1890 he came to Will County and bought 240 acres of land in Sections 33 and 34. He made many improvements on the place, erected numerous buildings, at the same time adding to his holdings from time to time until he is now the owner of 412 acres in Plainfield Township. Mr. Cryder is widely known as a breeder of fine stock. He is assisted on his farms by his son, John H., and son-in-law, Howard Phelps.

On Oct. 9, 1889, Mr. Cryder was united in marriage with Miss Lucena Bronk, who was born in Kendall County, 111., May 24, 1871, the daughter of John and Kate I (VanDyke) Bronk. Mrs. Bronk died Oct. 28, 1927, in Grundy County, 111. Throughout her life she was active in church work and was a life long member of the Congregational Church. To Mr. and Mrs. Cryder were born two children: M. Edna, married Howard Phelps, lives at home, and they have four children, John, Norma, Mary and William; and John H., farmer, lives at home. He married Miss Helen Barnes, and they have three children, John H., Jr., Robert, and Lucena.

Mr. Cryder is a member of the Congregational Church and is affiliated with the Masonic Lodge. He is a Republican in politics and has served as a member of the school board as township assessor.

Mr. Cryder was one of the organizers of the Plainfield State Bank in 1913. He was also one of the founders of the Plainfield Grain Company, of which he has served as president since its organization.

Earl H. Van Dyke. - Prominent among the successful young business men of Plainfield may be mentioned Mr. Van Dyke, who is assistant cashier of the Plainfield State Bank. He is also interested in the real estate and loan business. Mr. Van Dyke was born in Kendall County, 111., March 20, 1893, the son of Charles A. and Ella E. (Cryder) Van Dyke.

Charles A. Van Dyke was born in Kendall County, 111., Aug. 2, 1865. He was a farmer throughout his active career and in 1907 came to Plainfield, where he lived retired until the time of his death in 1911. His wife, who was born in Kendall County, 111., April 18, 1866, was the daughter of Henry and Mary (Van Cleve) Cryder. To Mr. and Mrs. Van Dyke one child was born, Earl H., the subject of this sketch.

Earl H. Van Dyke received his education in the public schools of Plainfield and in 1912 was graduated from high school. He then attended the University of Illinois, from which he received his B. S. degree in 1917. Since that date Mr. Van Dyke has been identified with the Plainfield State Bank as assistant cashier and director. In 1928 he opened offices in Plainfield, where he carries on a large volume of business in mortgages, insurance, and loans. He is also interested in the real estate business.

On Aug. 2, 1917, Mr. Van Dyke was united in marriage with Miss Bessie M. Pike, who was born at Plainfield, Feb. 6, 1893, the daughter of Edgar J. and Carrie (Evans) Pike, natives of Plainfield. Mrs. Van Dyke is a graduate of Plainfield High School and attended the University of Illinois and Northwestern University. She is also a graduate of the Columbian Conservatory of Music.

Politically, Mr. Van Dyke is a Republican. He holds membership in the Congregational Church, of which he is treasurer, and he also belongs to A. F. and A. M. No. 538, Joliet Chapter No. 27, and Delta Sigma Phi fraternity.

C. F. Hartong, secretary and treasurer of the Plainfield Grain Company, is a leading business man of this city, and a member of one of the oldest and best known families of Will County. He was born at Odell, 111., Dec. 5, 1872, a son of Franklin and Eliza (Sensenbaugh) Hartong.

Franklin Hartong, deceased, was a native of Ohio. He was born near Akron, the son of Jacob Hartong, who came to Ohio from Center County, Pa., during the early days. Franklin Hartong removed to Illinois in 1859 and engaged in general farming and stock raising in Tazewell County. He later owned a farm of 120 acres in Odell, Livingston County. In 1875 he moved to Lockport Township where he farmed and owned 120 acres of land. In 1900 he retired and moved to Plainfield where he died July 12, 1914, at the age of 73 years. His wife was born near Akron, Ohio, and was 12 years old when her family came to Illinois and settled in Tazewell County. She died Feb. 10, 1920, at the age of 72 years. Her parents, Mathias and Elizabeth Sensebaugh, settled in Will County in 1862. To Franklin and Eliza (Sensebaugh) Hartong six children were born, as follows: Luella, the widow of John W. Prescott, lives at Plainfield ; Jennie, the widow of Ira E. Evans, lives at Aurora, 111. ; C. F., the subject of this sketch ; Jacob, deceased ; John W., lives at Indianapolis, Ind. ; and Orva L., married Fred S. Pratt, lives at Plainfield.

C. F. Hartong spent his boyhood on his father's farm and obtained his education in the district schools of Lockport Township, and also the Plainfield High School. Mr. Hartong learned the carpenter trade, which he followed for 12 years, and in 1904 he engaged in farming in

Plainfield Township, having rented the farm of Elisha Brown, which he occupied for 20 years. Mr. Hartong became widely known throughout Will County as a breeder of hogs. From 1924 until 1926 he was associated in the contracting business with H. A. Goodson, and in 1926 became identified with the lumber and building department of the Plainfield Grain Company. He was made secretary and treasurer of the business, at the time of the organization in 1911, which office he now holds.

Mr. Hartong was married Feb. 27, 1904, to Miss Ida L. Patterson, of DuPage Township, Will County, the daughter of Robert and Elizabeth (Sinton) Patterson, both deceased. They have a son, Franklin Robert, born Jan. 31, 1918.

Mr. Hartong is a Republican, a member of the Methodist Church, and is affiliated with A. F. and A. M. No. 536, Plainfield, and is also a member of the Council, Joliet, Chapter, Commandery, and Shrine at Springfield, 111. He also belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America.

Merton G. Van Horn is one of the representative farmers and stockmen of Plainfield Township and a member of one of the oldest and best known families of Will County. He was born on the farm where he now resides, April 15, 1873, the son of John and Frances (Elwell) Van Horn.

John Van Horn was born in New Jersey. May 17, 1834, and died March 28, 1920. He came to Will County in 1843 with his parents, Cornelius G. and Ann (Van Houton) Van Horn. Cornelius G. Van Horn became a prosperous farmer of Plainfield Township, improving the land which is still part of the Van Horn homestead. He died May 8, 1877, and his wife died April 15, 1872. They were the parents of 12 children, of whom John, father of the subject of this sketch, was the seventh in order of birth. He was married, June 4, 1872, to Miss Frances Elwell, who was born at South Shaftsbury, Vt., Oct. 16, 1839. She died Feb. 29, 1916. Merton G. was their only child.

Merton G. Van Horn has always lived on the old homestead in Plainfield Township, which is known as "Oak Lawn Farm." He received his early education in the public schools of Plainfield and in 1893 was graduated from Joliet Township High School. He then attended the University of Illinois for two years. Mr. Van Horn has devoted his entire life to farming, stock raising and feeding of live stock for the markets. He is a stockholder in the Plainfield Grain Company, the

On Dec. 28, 1905, Mr. Van Horn was united in marriage with Miss Kathryn Bardwell, who was born in Wilmington, 111., May 5, 1875, the daughter of Fred and Mary (Connor) Bardwell, the former a native of England and the latter of Ireland. Mr. Bardwell studied pharmacy in England but after coming to the United States engaged in general farming in Will County. He also taught school during the winter months. To Mr. and Mrs. Van Horn have been born four children : Mary Frances, a graduate of Joliet Township High School and Joliet Junior College, now a teacher in the Marseilles grade school ; John B., Carl, and Andrew A., all at home.

Mrs. Van Horn is president of the Will County Home Improvement Club and president of the Household Science Department of Will County, of which she has been a member since 1912. She is also chancellor of the Royal Neighbors of America and a member of the Ancient Order of Gleaners. She is active on the board of the Federation of Women's Clubs.

Mr. Van Horn is independent in politics and his wife is a stanch Republican. He holds membership in the Congregational Church, and belongs to the Knights of Pythias, of which he is a charter member. The Van Horn farm has been in the family for five generations.

E. R. McClellan, retired, is a well known resident of Plainfield and a member of one of the oldest families of Will County. He was born in Plainfield Township, Oct. 26, 1860, the son of John and Arathusa (Brown) McClellan.

John McClellan was born in Massachusetts, Nov. 16, 1826. He came to Will County in 1854 and became one of the most prosperous farmers of Plainfield Township, where he died Dec. 12, 1906. He served as road commissioner for 24 years. His wife was bom Dec. 25, 1826, and died April 4, 1904. E. R., the subject of this sketch, was their only child.

E. R. McClellan spent his boyhood on his father's farm and attended the district schools of Plainfield Township. He was also a student at the private school of Sarah Mcintosh, which was located in the old National Hotel Building, Joliet. He attended college at Niles, Mich., and upon his return to Plainfield Township became interested in general

In November, 1883, Mr. McClellan married Miss Carrie Allen McAllister, of Plainfield Township, the daughter of Edward and Fannie (Beebe) McAllister, early settlers of Will County. Mrs. McClellan died Nov. 17, 1913, leaving three children : Inez, married Sterling Patterson, lives in Wheatland Township, and they have a daughter, Jane; Vera married T. J. Morse, lives in Los Angeles, Calif., and they have two children, Catherine and Thomas E.; and John R., lives at Hammond, Ind. Mr. McClellan was married the second time, June 1, 1916, to Miss Ada Latham, of Florence, Ky., the daughter of John and Mary (Kenyon) Latham, natives of Virginia and Kentucky respectively. Mr. Latham is deceased and his widow lives at Covington, Ky.

James M. Crabb, Sr., is among the highly esteemed and well known citizens of Lockport, where he has been in the employ of the Illinois Steel Company for the past 35 years. He was born in Scotland, April 26, 1866, the son of William and Elizabeth (Moir) Crabb.

William Crabb was a farmer and spent his entire life in Scotland. He died in 1884 and his wife died in March, 1912. They were members of the Presbyterian church and the parents of 11 children, of whom James M., the subject of this sketch, was the eighth in order of birth.

James M. Crabb attended the schools of his native land and in 1888 came to the United States. He settled in Chicago and two years later moved to Aurora, 111., where he spent seven years in the employ of the MacDonald Company, manufacturers. He came to Joliet in 1894 and entered the employ of the Illinois Steel Company. In 1910 he became master mechanic at the company's coke ovens in Lockport Township.

In 1892 Mr. Crabb was united in marriage with Miss Ida Mae Allord, of Aurora, 111., born July 10, 1874. They have six children, as follows: William Gilroy, born Sept. 8, 1893, lives at Cleveland, Ohio, married Miss Elizabeth Boland and they have two children: William, born May 5, 1917, and Jeanne, born April 7, 1920 ; (2) James, born in July, 1895, lives at Lockport, is a veteran of the World War, married Miss Margaret Connell, and they have two children: Mavis, born May 3, 1921 ; and Moir, born Aug. 21, 1922. (3) Thomas R., born April 17, 1897, lives at Lockport, is a veteran of the World War, having served in the Canal Zone with the Third Coast Artillery; (4) Marie Elizabeth, born in June, 1898, married Reuben N. Haglund, lives at Joliet. (5) Margaret L., bom in August, 1908, married L. K. Etheridge, lives at Lockport. (6) Georgene, born June 30, 1917, lives at home.

Mr. Crabb is justice of the peace at Lockport and is also serving as a member of the local school board. He is identified with the Republican party in politics, holds membership in the Presbyterian Church, and belongs to the Masonic lodge, having been made Master Mason in Scotland. He also belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America.

Lewis Pearson, retired, is among the well known and highly esteemed men of Plainfield. He was born in Sweden, April 8, 1851, the son of Peter and Maiy (Peterson) Pearson.

Both Peter Pearson and his wife were natives of Sweden. They came to the United States in 1860 and settled in Kendall County, 111., where they died. They were the parents of six children, of whom Lewis, the subject of this sketch, was the third in order of birth.

Lewis Pearson was a small child when his family settled in Kendall County. He attended the district schools and remained on the home place until 1888, at which time he purchased a tract of 160 acres near the family homestead. He improved the land and became one of the prosperous farmers of that section. Mr. Pearson remained there until the time of his retirement in 1911. He then removed to Plainfield, where he has since lived retired.

On Jan. 14, 1875, Mr. Pearson married Miss Carrie Essington, the daughter of George and Sarah (Scott) Essington. Mrs. Pearson, a native of England, was two years old when her mother died. Her father later married Mrs. Mary Buffham. They were early settlers of Plainfield, where Mr. Essington followed his trade as a blacksmith. Both he and his wife are deceased and are buried in the Plainfield Cemetery. To Mr. and Mrs. Pearson were born four children : Maud, married Frank Fiddyment, lives in Kendall County ; Mary, married Henry Wheeler, lives in Kendall County; Edward, lives on the old homestead; and Alice, married James Bundy, lives in Plainfield Township. There are 15 grandchildren.

George Warner Young. - Able, resourceful and experienced, George Warner Young is one of the best representatives of his profession practicing at the bar of Joliet, and his prestige is not confined to local bounds, but extends over a wide territory and he is connected with some of the most important jurisprudence of the State. He was born at Manhattan, Will County, March 25, 1866, the son of Edward and Anna Eliza (Hoyt) Young.

Edward Young was born at Durham, N. Y. In 1847 he came to Will County with his parents. In early life he engaged in general farming and in 1876 became interested in the grain business in Joliet and became one of the city's most progressive business men. For many years he was vestryman and junior warden of Christ Episcopal Church at Joliet. In 1865 he married Ann Eliza Hoyt, who was born at Ridgefield, Conn., June 15, 1839, a daughter of Rev. Warner and Elizabeth P. (Reynolds) Hoyt. To this union six children were born: George Warner, the subject of this sketch; Rev. Charles Herbert; John Mansfield; Heusted Thompson; Francis Edward; and Margaret Hoyt Young.

Edward Young was the son of John and Caroline Elizabeth (Thompson) Young. John Young was born July 18, 1798, at New Paltz, on the Hudson. He was well educated and for many years was president of the Brooklyn Collegiate Institute. In 1848 he came to Illinois and settled at Manhattan Center, Will County. He gave the name to that town and served as supervisor for eight years. He was also the first president of the Will County Agricultural Society. He died Dec. 24, 1884. He married in 1825 Caroline Elizabeth Thompson, the daughter of Rev. James and Anna (Humphreys) Thompson. Caroline Young was instrumental in building the Episcopal Church at Manhattan. Anna Humphreys was the daughter of Major Elijah Humphreys, who served in a Connecticut regiment during the Revolutionary War. He married Anna Mansfield, a daughter of the celebrated Rev. Dr. Richard Mansfield, field, of Derby, Conn. Gen. David Humphreys was a brother of Major Humphreys, who served on Washington's staff, and he was the first American minister to Spain. He was the man who introduced merino sheep in America.

John Young was the son of Alexander and Elizabeth (Lawrence) Young. He was a celebrated Hicksite Quaker preacher. Their ancestral line goes back to Rev. John Young, a missionary of the church of England. He settled in Sag Harbor, on Long Island, about 1640.

lie schools. At the age of 16 years he began his career driving a delivery wagon, and later clerked in a local store. He was then employed in the offices of the old Chicago, Pekin & Southwestern Railroad, and in 1883, entered the offices of the Joliet Republican and Sun under Major Robert Mann Woods. Two years later he entered the Law School of Columbia University from which he was graduated in 1887. He was admitted to the bar in 1887 and spent the following three years in the law offices of Judge Olin and Captain Phelps. He formed a partnership in 1892 with G. J. Cowing, which continued until 1906, at which time Mr. Cowing was elected county Judge. Mr. Young has since engaged in private practice and has offices in the Morris Building.

On Sept. 5, 1889, Mr. Young married Miss Corabelle Beers Rugar, the daughter of Capt. Francis and Elizabeth (Beers) Rugar. Captain Rugar was a cousin of General Thomas Rugar, of the U. S. Army and of William Rugar, Chief Justice of the State of New York. This family is of German ancestry. Capt. Rugar settled at Galesburg, 111, in 1852, and was a merchant. At the outbreak of the Civil War he enlisted in the 64th Illinois Regiment.

To George Warner and Corabelle B. (Rugar) Young were born three children: Rugar, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this history; Elizabeth, born April 30, 1897, died July 5, 1923, and Warner Rugar, born July 2, 1895, died July 15, 1896.

Mr. Young is a Republican. He has served as president of the Joliet Improvement Association, president of the University Extension Circle, chairman of the Industrial Committee of the Commercial Club, secretary of the Deepwaterway Committee, and president of the Elmhurst Cemetery Association.

John R. Birkett is a substantial and well known citizen of Plainfield, where he is mayor. He was born in Wheatland Township, Will County, Dec. 1, 1868, the son of Daniel R. and Janet (Small) Birkett.

The Birkett family is one of the oldest families of Will County, Daniel Birkett, grandfather of the subject of this sketch, having settled here during the early days. He was a native of England. Daniel and Anne Birkett were the parents of seven children, Daniel R., being their only son. He was born at Plainfield in 1844 and died Aug. 17, 1918. He was well known throughout this section as a veterinarian and also engaged in general farming and stock raising. Janet (Small) Birkett was a native of Scotland and the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Small. She died in 1871 at the age of 28 years. Two children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Birkett: John R., the subject of this sketch; and Anna, married James Chaplin, lives in Wheatland Township.

John R. Birkett attended the district schools of Wheatland Township and early in life became interested in farming-. In 1906 he purchased 160 acres of land which he improved. He now owns 197 acres, which is being operated by his son, Reese Birkett. Mr. Birkett has lived in Plainfield since 1924. He is a stockholder in the Plainfield Grain Company and is serving as village trustee, being elected to that office in 1926, and was elected mayor of Plainfield, September, 1928.

On April 5, 1894, Mr. Birkett was united in marriage with Miss Lavina Sharp, of Plainfield, the daughter of James and Elizabeth (Jones) Sharp, natives of England. Mrs. Birkett died Jan. 8, 1922, at the age of 49 years. There are four children in the Birkett family: James R., deceased; Janet Elizabeth, deceased; Reece L., lives in Plainfield Township; and Merrill B., lives at Joliet where he is employed by the Joliet Steel Company.

On Oct. 1, 1924, Mr. Birkett married Mrs. Belle Heggie, of Joliet, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Melcher, and the widow of James M. Heggie. By her former marriage Mrs. Birkett has two daughters: Janet Ruth, who attends the University of Illinois; and Virginia, at home.

Clyde G. Essington, undertaker, is among the capable and well known business men of Joliet. He was bom in Plainfield Township, Will County, Oct. 14, 1885, the son of Albert and Mina (Becker) Essington.

Albert Essington, deceased, was a native of Will County and a member of one of the earliest families in this section. He was born June 30, 1859, the son of George and Mary (Buff ham) Essington, natives of England. The Essingtons settled in Will County in 1856. Albert Essington, farmer, died Nov. 28, 1925. His wife was born in Kendall County, 111., Sept. 23, 1867. She resides at Plainfield. Two children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Essington: Clyde G., the subject of this sketch ; and Elmer R., who lives in Joliet.

the employ of Wertzbaugher & Schuennaman, grocers, and two years later went with Bayles & Essington. In 1915 he became connected with the Barrett Hardware Company in Joliet, in charge of the shipping department, and remained with that concern until 1927, at which time he engaged in the undertaking business in Joliet in partnership with his brother. They have a fine funeral home which is modern and attractive in its appointments.

On Oct. 25, 1911, Mr. Essington married Miss Olive Pearl Gaylord, of Lockport, 111., the daughter of Eddie H. and Agnes (Spangler) Gaylord, natives of Kendall County and Will County respectively. Mr. Gaylord is deceased and his widow lives with the Essington family. To Mr. and Mrs. Essington has been born a daughter, Ruth Ada, who was born March 10, 1921.

Mr. Essington is a Republican and is now holding the office of alderman of Plainfield. He is a trustee of the Methodist Church, and is affiliated with A. F. & A. M. No. 536, Plainfield, and Eastern Star No. 239.

Alphons J. Weber is among the popular merchants of Joliet, where he conducts a dairy business which was established by his father 35 years ago. He was born in Switzerland and is a son of John Jacob and Ida (Brendle) Weber.

John Jacob Weber came to the United States from Switzerland with his family in 1884 and settled in Will County, where he engaged in general farming. After several years he removed to Joliet and purchased a small farm on the outskirts of the city. In 1887 he started in the dairy business on a small scale and five years later had succeeded in developing a good business. He died in 1918 and is buried in St. John's Cemetery, Joliet. His wife, who was born in Alsace-Lorraine, died in 1923. To Mr. and Mrs. Weber were born eight children, of whom Alphons was the oldest.

Alphons J. Weber spent his boyhood in Switzerland and received his early education there. He completed his schooling in Joliet at an early age became associated with his father's business. The Weber Dairy which is located at 505 West Jefferson Street, carries on an extensive wholesale and retail trade and are manufacturers of butter and cheese.

business; Elmer, manager of the dairy business, lives in Joliet; Otto, lives in Joliet, married Miss Marie Wagner, and they have a son, William; John, and Edna, both students. Elmer and Otto Weber are also associated with the Weber Dairy Company.

Politically Mr. Weber is identified with the Democratic party. He is a member of St. John's Catholic Church and belongs to the Loyal Order of Moose and Chamber of Commerce.

Walter H. Baumgartner, of Frankfort, is a native of Illinois, and an energetic and enterprising business man, being secretary and treasurer of Baumgartner & Company. He was born at Frankfort, March 13, 1884, the son of Albert R. and Catherine (Schieferstein) Baumgartner.

Albert R. Baumgartner was born in Frankfort, June 16, 1860. He was a son of John and Mary Baumgartner, natives of Switzerland, and early settlers of Frankfort Township, where John Baumgartner was engaged in farming. Albert R. Baumgartner grew up on his father's farm and attended the public schools of Frankfort Township, after which he engaged in farming and met with success. In 1914 he retired from the farm and removed to Frankfort and with his sons, Walter H. and William A., organized the Baumgartner & Company, and he was elected president. Mr. Baumgartner is a Democrat, a member of St. Peter's Evangelical Church, and belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America.

To Albert R. and Catherine (Schieferstein) Baumgartner eight children were born: Alfred A., a plaster contractor, Virginia, Minn.; Walter H., the subject of this sketch ; Rose, married Floyd Lucas, Oak Park, 111. ; Mabel, married Edward Wunderlich, Joliet ; Augusta, lives at Chicago; Alma, married Martin Sippel, Venice, Florida; William A., vice president of Baumgartner & Company, Frankfort; and Lillian, married Alfred Zechlin, Frankfort.

Walter H. Baumgartner has always lived in Frankfort. He was educated in the public schools and worked on his father's farm until he was 16 years old. He then learned the stone cutter's trade under the supervision of Julius Pfaff, of Frankfort, and remained in his employ until 1909, when he went to Virginia, Minn., and followed the bricklayer's and plasterer's trade. In 1910 he returned to Frankfort and engaged in the general contracting business, and in 1914 organized the Baumgartner & Company, which was incorporated under the laws of

Illinois. They are manufacturers of cement products and are also general contractors. The officers of the company are: Albert R. Baumgartner, president; William A. Baumgartner, vice president; and Walter H. Baumgartner, secretary and treasurer. In 1914 the company built a large plant to manufacture their cement products. They employ 15 men and have a complete delivery service.

On Nov. 29, 1911, Mr. Baumgartner was married to Hedwig Zechlin, a daughter of Bernhard A. Zechlin, a complete sketch of whom appears in this history. Mr. and Mrs. Baumgartner have a daughter, Phyllis, a student.

Mr. Baumgartner is a Democrat, a member of St. Peter's Evangelical Church, and fraternally is affiliated with Mount Joliet Lodge, A. F. and A. M. No. 42 ; Joliet Chapter, R. A. M. No. 27 ; Joliet Council, R. & S. M. No. 82; and Bricklayers Union, Joliet Local. He has also served as township clerk for one term.

James M. Heintz is among the enterprising young business men of Joliet, where he is manager of the Peter G. Lennon Company, wholesale grocers. He was born in this city, June 22, 1895, the son of Michael and Julia (Keller) Heintz.

Michael Heintz was born in Alsace Lorraine, and was five years old when his parents came to the United States and settled in Joliet. He spent the remainder of his life in this city and for many years engaged in the retail grocery business. He died in 1910 at the age of 42 years and is buried in St. John's Cemetery. His widow, who lives in Chicago, is the daughter of Joseph Keller, a pioneer settler of Joliet. To Mr. and Mrs. Heintz the following children were born: James M., the subject of this sketch; Helen; Mrs. Joseph Berschinski; Linus; Finbar; Cletus ; and Mary. All are residents of Chicago.

James M. Heintz obtained his education in the parochial schools of Joliet and attended St. Joseph's College at Teutopolis, 111. He has been identified with the Peter G. Lennon Company since 1911 and has held the position as sales manager of the business, since 1923. Since the time of Mr. Lennon's death, February 11, 1928, the business has been carried on by Mr. Heintz as general manager.

Henry Francis Hicks, deceased, was one of the most prominent and highly esteemed men of Joliet, having practiced dentistry in the city of Joliet for more than half a century. He was born at Lockport, in Will County, July 10, 1859, the son of Obadiah and Ann D. (Richards) Hicks.

Obadiah Hicks was born on the Isle of St. Agnes, off the coast of England, June 23, 1829, and died Jan. 6, 1911. His wife was born in England, June 1, 1825, and died Nov. 3, 1896. Mr. Hicks was a ship carpenter by trade and after his arrival in New York City, July 1, 1854, he followed that trade there for seven years. He then came to Joliet, where he worked as a carpenter during the remainder of his life. To Mr. and Mrs. Hicks the following children were born: Anne, born July 26, 1852, married George Hingston, of Mead, Wash.; Margaret Jane, born Oct. 23, 1855, unmarried, lives at Mead, Wash.; Elizabeth Susan, born Sept. 19, 1857, deceased, was the wife of William Wallace King, of Council Bluffs, Iowa; Henry Francis, the subject of this sketch; Minnie, born Sept. 23, 1868, married Arthur C. Wilson, lives at Spokane, Wash. ; Carrie M., born Oct. 21, 1866, married Alfred E. Green, lives at Morgan Park, 111.; Mary Caroline, born Sept. 19, 1860, died March 17, 1864; Lillian M., born Aug. 16, 1862, died Feb. 28, 1864; and James George, born April 7, 1864, died May 14, 1865.

Henry Francis Hicks was a small boy when his family settled in Joliet. He attended the old Broadway School and began his dental career in the office of Dr. G. B. Salter in 1879, with whom he was associated for more than 25 years. When Doctor Salter left Joliet the entire practice was taken over by Doctor Hicks and he was also associated in practice with Dr. Brunson of Joliet. Doctor Hicks retired in February, 1926, and resided at 113 Dewey Street until his death, which occurred Aug. 16, 1928.

On Dec. 24, 1887, Doctor Hicks was united in marriage with Miss Cora Ada Smith, who was born in Will County, Sept. 5, 1868, the daughter of Charles C. and Corinza (Burr) Smith. Mr. Smith was born in Tennessee, May 2, 1818, and settled in Will County about 1835. He was a farmer and was one of the largest land owners in the state, at one time holding more than 3,000 acres. He died Jan. 27, 1892, and his wife, who was born in Indiana, June 19, 1831, died Sept. 30, 1910. To Mr. and Mrs. Smith the following children were born: Barton, born June 2, 1852, married Dec. 25, 1877, to Miss May Searles, and they live at Toledo, Ohio ; Emma J., born July 5, 1855, married Herman H. Unland, June 15, 1876, and she died May 23, 1899; William Thomas, born April 29, 1858, died Oct. 3, 1925, married Miss May Fowler on Dec. 25, 1879 ;

Ella May, born June 21, 1860, married on May 19, 1881, to Wallace B. Douglas, attorney, lives in St. Paul, Minn.; Charles W., born Nov. 19, 1863, married Dec. 25, 1885, to Miss Margaret Ann Miller, and they live at Mexico, N. Y. ; Lucy Mary, born June 5, 1866, the widow of Frank Albert Miller, lives at Galveston, Texas; Cora Ada Hicks, wife of the subject of this sketch; Eva Sarah, born Nov. 5, 1870, married Sept. 28, 1892, to Proman William Smith, farmer, lives in Will County; Edgar Francis, born Sept. 29, 1872, died Sept. 5, 1873 ; and Floyd Herman, born June 6, 1874, died March 5, 1908.

To Henry Francis and Cora Ada (Smith) Hicks a daughter was born, Verna Aline, July 19, 1891. She was married on June 7, 1922, to Herbert A. Brooker, of Joliet, who is employed by the Chicago Gravel Company as a mechanical engineer.

While Dr. Hicks was studying dentistry with Dr. G. B. Salter, he also learned taxidermistry under him. Dr. Hicks had done a good deal of this kind of work for pastime. Among his work of this kind was a hand made glass case containing a collection of the native birds of Will County, which are nicely mounted on an artificial tree in the glass case. This is now in the home of Mrs. Hicks.

Archie L. West is a citizen of Manhattan, where he has been identified with the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad as agent since 1907. He was born at Momence, 111., Oct. 27, 1880, the son of Harvey G. and Elizabeth (Timmins) West.

Harvey G. West, who lives retired at Momence, was born there in 1850. Throughout his life he was interested in general farming and stock raising. His wife, a native of England, died in 1889. To Mr. and Mrs. West the following children were born: Archie L., the subject of this sketch; Rua M., married Frank Hagerman, lives at Pratt, Kan.; Hilda, married Guy Harris, lives in Canada; and Arthur, lives at Grant Park, 111. Minnie lives in England. She is the wife of Capt. William Kinsey, a veteran of the World War.

Archie L. West attended the public schools of Momence and also was enrolled at Valparaiso University, in Indiana. He studied telegraphy at the Dodge Institute of Telegraphy, and accepted his first position as an operator with the Grand Trunk Railroad at Valparaiso. For his services he received a salary of $40 per month. He was later con- nected with the New York Central Railroad for a short time, and was also employed by the Chicago & Eastern Illinois Railroad at Momence. In September, 1906, he went with the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad as assistant agent and operator at Momence, but the following year was transferred to Manhattan as agent.

On Dec. 5, 1906, Mr. West was united in marriage with Miss Effie May Dubridge, of Momence, the daughter of Alfred H. and Delilah (Patterson) Dubridge. Mr. Dubridge died in 1896 and his widow resides at Momence. She was born at Peotone, 111. There were five children in the Dubridge family: Effie May West; Hazel, married Frank Sharkey, lives at Niles, Mich. ; Claude R., lives at Chicago Heights, 111. ; Walter S., a World War veteran, lives in Chicago ; and Elva Hughey, lives at Elmhurst, 111. To Mr. and Mrs. West were born three children: Elton Walter, born June 14, 1907 ; Ellis, born Aug. 20, 1908 ; died Oct. 3, 1918 ; and Beatrice May, born May 12, 1924.

Mr. West served as alderman of Manhattan and is now a member of the school board, having been a director and clerk for the past nine years. He takes an active interest in all civic affairs.

Mr. West was among the first radio operators of Will County to receive a federal license, having taken up the study of radio in 1912. He attended the first radio convention in Chicago and served as district superintendent of Illinois for the American Radio Relay League, Inc., of Connecticut.

Frank J. Kohlhagen, a popular citizen of Frankfort, has been a resident of Will County his entire life. He was born in Frankfort Township, Dec. 17, 1871, the son of John and Maria (Westfahl) Kohlhagen.

Both John Kohlhagen and his wife were bom in Butso, Macklenberg, Germany. He was born June 29, 1849, and his wife on Feb. 25, 1852. John Kohlhagen was the son of Frederick and Sophia Kohlhagen, who came to the United States in 1865 and settled first in New Lenox Township, later removing to Frankfort Township, Will County, 111. He was a farmer. He and his wife are buried in Hadley Cemetery, Hadley, 111.

John Kohlhagen was 16 years of age when he came to the United States with his parents. He was reared on his father's farm and in 1870 was married to Maria Westphal. He purchased a farm of 160 acres and followed grain farming and dairying. He conducted this farm until 1892, when he retired and moved to Frankfort. On Nov. 1, 1895, with his son Frank J., he organized Kohlhagen's general store, but he was never actively engaged in the business. He sold his interest to his son in 1911. He lives in Frankfort. His wife died Oct. 18, 1918, and is buried in Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Frankfort, 111. Mr. Kohlhagen is a Democrat and for many years served as highway commissioner. He is a member of St. Peter's Evangelical Church, and has served on the building committee and as trustee of same. To Mr. and Mrs. Kohlhagen three children were born: Frank J., the subject of this sketch; Lily, married Otto B. Herschbach, a hardware merchant, of Frankfort; and Emma, married Frank W. Logan, an ice cream manufacturer of Chicago Heights. Mrs. Logan died Feb. 3, 1924, and is buried in Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Frankfort.

Frank J. Kohlhagen attended the public schools of Frankfort and graduated from Bryant & Stratton's Business College, Chicago, in 1890. In 1892 he went to Joliet as deputy County Clerk, under Henry H. Stassen. In the spring of 1895 he returned to Frankfort, and on Nov. 1st of that year in partnership with his father he established the Kohlhagen General Store, and served as manager. In 1911 he purchased his father's interest, since which time he has been sole owner. He has met with success in this undertaking and has one of the largest stores of its kind in the city. In October, 1928, he held a sale, closing out his entire business and retired. Mr. Kohlhagen was one of the organizers of the Frankfort State Bank in 1913, and was elected a director and secretary, in which capacity he is still serving. He is also agent of the Public Service Company of Northern Illinois, and a director in the Frankfort-Hall Company.

Mr. Kohlhagen was married in 1896 to Miss Emma Bettenhausen, a daughter of Conrad and Elizabeth (Horn) Bettenhausen, natives of Germany. Mr. Bettenhausen was a farmer in Green Garden Township. In 1891 he retired and moved to Frankfort, 111. Both he and his wife are deceased and are buried in Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Frankfort. To Mr. and Mrs. Kohlhagen three children have been bom: Grace, registrar of Joliet Township High School; Olive, married Dr. Charles V. Waggoner, of Chicago ; and Eloise, attends the University of Illinois.

Mr. Kohlhagen is a Republican. He has served on the village board as village clerk and trustee, and is now a justice of the peace. He has been Township School Treasurer for the past 22 years, and is clerk of the Modem Woodmen of America, of Frankfort. The family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and Mr. Kohlhagen is a member of the official board of same. He has an excellent standing in the town and is highly esteemed.

Frank R. Jones, cashier of the State Bank of Manhattan, 111., since 1895, figures prominently not alone in financial circles but also as a progressive and representative citizen. He was born in Wilton Township, Will County, December 30, 1862, the son of Robert and Eleanor (Cooper) Jones.

Robert Jones and his wife were natives of Yorkshire, England. They came to the United States in 1851 and settled in Kane County, 111. In 1856 he purchased a farm in Section 26, Wilton Township, Will County, on which he lived until 1886 when he retired and moved to Peotone, where he died in 1901, aged 78 years. His wife died in 1912, aged 88 years. They are buried in Wilton Center Cemetery. Mr. Jones was a Republican, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and served as school director for a number of years. To Mr. and Mrs. Jones eight children were born, as follows: 1. John C, a Methodist minister, died in May, 1927, and is buried at Yorkville. 2. Hannah, the wife of Louis M. Arnold, lives at Long Beach, Cal. 3. Elizabeth, married Dr. Londus Blandon, of Joliet. 4. Mary L., the wife of John C. Baker, died in 1919, and is buried in Manhattan Cemetery. 5. Charles W., died in 1869, buried in Wilton Center Cemetery. 6. Frank R., the subject of this sketch. 7. Benjamin D., lives in Manhattan Township. A twin sister of Hannah died at the age of one year.

Frank R. Jones attended the district school of Wilton Township, and attended Northwestern University. He taught school in Wilton and Green Garden Townships for three winters, and then engaged in the lumber business. When the Bank of Manhattan was organized in 1895 he was made its first cashier, in which position he has since served continuously. In 1919 the bank was organized as a State bank.

On August 27, 1885, Mr. Jones was married at Wilton Center to Miss Luanna Renfrew, who was born in Vermont, May 27, 1864. Her parents were Harvey and Adelaide (Smalley) Renfrew. Mr. Renfrew was a lumber dealer in Kansas until his retirement. He is now living in Manhattan and is 86 years of age. His wife died in March, 1923, and is buried at Manhattan Center. Mrs. Jones, previous to her marriage, was a teacher in the Wilton and Manhattan schools. To Mr. and Mrs. Jones three children have been born: Herbert a graduate of Northwestern University, and a veteran of the World War, married Miss Mena Ryon, of Streator, 111., has been employed in the office of the County Treasurer for the past six years. 2. Irvin H., a graduate of Chicago University, was an ensign during the World War and served from February, 1918, until June, 1919, a chemist, now associated with the Koppers Company, of Pittsburgh, Pa. 3. Eleanor, a graduate of Joliet Township High School, lives at home.

Mr. Jones is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. For the past 30 years he has been treasurer of the school board of Manhattan, and for 20 years a member of the board of trustees. He and his brother, Benjamin D. Jones, conduct the Baker, Jones & Company, grain and coal dealers. Fraternally Mr. Jones is affiliated with the Masonic Lodge. Joliet Commandery No. 4, and the Medina Shrine, Chicago, 111.

Frank S. Hoerrmann. - One of the substantial citizens of Manhattan is Frank S. Hoerrmann, who is interested in the hotel, bakery, and confectionery business. He was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, January 29, 1879, the son of Gustave and Anna (Gutheinz) Hoerrmann.

Gustave Hoerrmann, deceased, was a native of Germany. He was born Jan. 8, 1844, and died Aug. 5, 1920. His widow, who was born in Germany, Oct. 10, 1854, resides at Manhattan. To Mr. and Mrs. Hoerrmann the following children were bom: Anna, born in 1875, married Joseph Schweitzer, lives in Chicago, and they have three daughters, Myrtle, Bertha, and Anna; George, born in 1877, lives at Manhattan; Frank S., the subject of this sketch; Mathilda, unmarried, lives at home; and Eugene, born Oct. 29, 1881. He is mayor of Manhattan and a prominent citizen of Will County.

In 1885 Gustave Hoerrmann located at Manhattan. In 1895 he established the bakery business which is now owned by his sons. In 1906 a modern baking plant was built. Besides its local business interests the Hoerrmann estate comprises 140 acres of land, some of which is located within the city limits of Manhattan.

Frank S. Hoerrmann was four years old when his parents came to the United States and settled in Chicago. In 1885 they removed to Manhattan, where Mr. Hoerrmann was educated. Throughout his business career he has been connected with the hotel and bakery business, which was established by his father. He also conducts a confectionery and ice cream business.

On April 22, 1924, Mr. Hoerrmann married Miss Johanna Lawler, the daughter of Martin and Margaret (Donnelly) Lawler. Mr. Lawler died in 1926. His widow resides in Manhattan, 111. Before her marriage Mrs. Hoerrmann was a teacher in the schools of Will and Cook counties.

Harry G. Gerdes, one of the most prominent and highly esteemed men of Manhattan, was born at Wilton Center, in Will County, Oct. 28, 1859. He is the son of H. M. and Margaret Gerdes.

H. M. Gerdes was born in Germany and emigrated to the United States with his family about 1858. He purchased a farm at Wilton Center, which he successfully operated until the time of his death in 1891. His wife died in 1893. Mr. and Mrs. Gerdes were the parents of the following children: Dora, married Stephen Eyrch, lives at Manhattan; Harry G., the subject of this sketch; Henrietta, deceased, was the wife of Dr. Muehlenpford, of Ashkum, 111. ; Frederick, died in 1876, at the age of 18 years; Henry, died in 1911 at the age of 54 years; Hermina, died in 1923, at the age of 62 years.

With the exception of a few months spent in Nebraska and Chicago, Harry G. Gerdes has spent his entire life in Will County. He was educated in the district schools of Wilton Center and began his business career as a clerk in a country store. After the death of his parents he returned to the home place, which he operated until 1920, at which time he removed to Manhattan.

In 1890 Mr. Gerdes married Miss Sophia Schroeder, who died in 1908. To them a daughter was born, Edna, who died in 1904 at the age of 12 years. In 1910 Mr. Gerdes married Miss Laura Kineston, of Wilton Center. They have a son, Carl K., who was born in 1912. He attends Manhattan High School.

Mr. Gerdes is a Republican in politics and has been supervisor of Manhattan Township since April, 1928. He was also president of the local school board for seven years. While a resident of Wilton Center he held many township offices. From 1896 until 1907 he served Wilton Township as supervisor. He is a member of the Lutheran Church and his wife belongs to the Baptist Church. Mr. Gerdes is affiliated with the Modern Woodmen of America.

Mr. Gerdes is president of the Andres & Wilton Grain Company, which was organized in 1914. The company handles over a million bushels of grain annually and is one of the enterprising business concerns of Will County.

John H. Wehrley is among the widely known business men of Beecher, where he has engaged in the drug business for the past 20 years. He was born in Germany, June 27, 1876, the son of John and Elizabeth (Christman) Wehrley.

John Wehrley was born in Germany in 1845. He was a farmer throughout his life and after coming to the United States settled at Millersburg, Ind., where he died in 1898. His wife, also a native of Germany, died in 1918. Mr. and Mrs. Wehrley were the parents of seven children, of whom John H., the subject of this sketch, was the third youngest.

John H. Wehrley was nine years old when he came to the United States with his parents. He received his early education in the public schools of Millersburg, Ind., and studied pharmacy at the University of Illinois, from which he was graduated in 1905. He spent two years in the chemical laboratory of Armour & Company, Chicago, and in 1907 located at Beecher, where he has since engaged in the drug business. For the past four years he has served as postmaster of Beecher.

On April 19, 1906, Mr. Wehrley was united in marriage with Miss Helen C. Beutler, who was born at Lafayette, Ind. They have a daughter, Elizabeth, who attends Purdue University. Two other children died in infancy.

Claude O. Henry, cashier of the First National Bank of Manhattan, is a native of Illinois. He was born in Kankakee County, Oct. 28, 1885, the son of George O. and Emma (Bailey) Henry.

George O. Henry, who lives retired at Manhattan, was for many years a farmer and stockman of Sibley, 111. Since 1921 he has resided in this city. There are eight children in the Henry family, as follows: Claude O., the subject of this sketch; Frank, insurance, lives at Kankakee, 111. ; Mrs. A. E. Schroeder, lives at Manhattan ; Clayton, salesman, lives at Toledo, Ohio; Bradley, farmer, lives at Sibley, 111.; Jeanette, teacher, lives at Salina, Kan. ; George, lives at Manhattan ; and Gordon, lives at Manhattan.

Claude 0. Henry received his education in the schools of Bonfield in Kankakee County and when a young man learned telegraphy. He was employed by the Wabash Railroad at Manhattan as night operator and three years later became associated with Bergan Brothers in this city. After five years he became a teller in the First National Bank of Manhattan. He was elected cashier in 1916 and has since served in that capacity.

On June 6, 1916, Mr. Henry was united in marriage with Miss Elda Schroeder, of Manhattan, the daughter of Clemence and Sophia (Krapp) Schroeder, of Manhattan. Mr. and Mrs. Schroeder were born at Mokena, 111., and were early settlers of Manhattan, where Mr. Schroeder has engaged in the hardware business for the past 42 years. To Mr. and Mrs. Henry has been born a daughter, Jeanne, born Sept. 17, 1918.

Mr. Henry is a Republican, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and is affiliated with the Masonic Lodge and Shrine. He has served as alderman and village clerk of Manhattan and takes an active interest in the affairs of the community.

Wilson F. Smith. - Among the prominent citizens of Will County is Wilson F. Smith, who is living retired at Plainfield. He was born in Lockport Township, in Will County, Sept. 10, 1855, the son of John H. and Lydia (Fouser) Smith.

John H. Smith was born in Summit County, Ohio. He came to Will County in 1854 and after several years returned to Ohio with his family, where he died in 1868, at the age of 40 years. His widow later returned to Will County with her children. After many years she removed to Iowa, where she died at the age of 84 years. Wilson F., the subject of this sketch, was the second child in a family of seven.

Wilson F. Smith received a meager education in the district schools of Lockport Township, being required to go to work as a farm hand when fifteen years of age. After his marriage in 1878 he rented land in Plainfield Township, which he occupied for 30 years. He then purchased his present farm of 45 acres which is located on the north side of Plainfield. For many years Mr. Smith was a well known breeder of Englishshire horses, and made many exhibits at the Plainfield Township Fair. He was president of the Fair Association.

On Jan. 1, 1878, Mr. Smith married Miss Jemima Hartong, who was born in Plainfield Township, Aug. 19, 1855, the daughter of Elias and Christina (Schrer) Hartong. Mr. Hartong was a native of Pennsylvania and an early settler of Will County. His wife was born in Germany and was 12 years of age when her parents emigrated to the United

States. Mr. and Mrs. Smith, who celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary Jan. 1, 1928, are the parents of the following children: Arthur, lives at Plainfield; Lloyd C, lives at Winona, 111., where he is high school superintendent; Lucretia, lives at home; Lyda, married Dennison Green, lives at Bloomington, 111.; Beatrice, married Mark Green, lives in Kendall County, 111. ; Dale, lives at Plainfield ; Ada and Columbus, both deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Smith have 14 grandchildren.

Mr. Smith is a Republican. He served as president of the local school board for eight years, and was instrumental in obtaining the consolidated schools for Plainfield. The fine new high school was built during his term as president of the board. He has always been keenly interested in education. He was one of the founders of the Will County Grange in which he has always been an active worker. Mr. Smith is affiliated with the Masonic Lodge.

William H. Stelling, proprietor of "Maple Lane Dairy," is one of the progressive young business men of Crete and Will County. He was born in Sumner Township, Kankakee County, 111., June 17, 1890, the son of Frederic and Wilhelmina (Knoop) Stelling.

Frederic Stelling, deceased, was a native of Germany. He was a small child when his parents brought him to America and settled in DuPage County, 111., where he spent his boyhood. Later, he removed to Kankakee County, where he purchased a farm of 200 acres. About 12 years before his death he removed to Peotone, 111., where he died March 1, 1926. He is buried in the Peotone Cemetery. His widow, also a native of Germany, resides at Peotone. The following children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Stelling: August, lives at Denver, Colo.; Bertha, married Herbert Peister, lives in Ohio; William H., the subject of this sketch ; Minnie, married Henry Daum, lives at Peotone ; Clara, married Leslie Howlet, lives at Denver, Colo.; Emma, died at the age of seven years; Hulda, died at the age of nine years; Fred, died May 18, 1927, at the age of 40 years; and two children died in infancy.

William H. Stelling was reared and educated in Kankakee County and was connected with his father's farming interests for a time. At the age of 24 years Mr. Stelling went to Texas and from there to Canada, where he spent several years. He then returned to Illinois and settled on a farm in Crete Township, where he specialized in dairy farming. In 1925 he became interested in the dairy business and established his retail trade in Crete. He operates an up-to-date dairy, which is equipped with modern cold storage plant, separating system, etc.

On Dec. 31, 1919, Mr. Stelling was united in marriage with Miss Ottelie Gross, of Peotone, 111., the daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth (Lauman) Gross. Mr. Gross is a pioneer merchant of Peotone. His wife is deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Stelling have a daughter, Elizabeth, born Aug. 7, 1922.

Mr. Stelling is a Republican, a member of the Methodist Church, of which he is deacon, and he belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Masonic Lodge and Lincolnshire Country Club. He also is active in the Will County Farm Bureau.

Charles J. Rohe. - One of the most prominent men of Crete is Charles J. Rohe, who has engaged in the drug business at that place continuously for the past 40 years. He was born at Crete, Dec. 9, 1864, the son of Henry and Dorothea (Heine) Rohe.

Henry Rohe, deceased, was a native of Germany. Early in life he came to this country and settled at Syracuse, N. Y., but later went to Chicago. He came to Crete in 1850 and for a time was a farmer. He then engaged in business for many years. He died in 1907 at the age of 71 years and is buried in the Crete Cemetery. His wife, who was born in Germany in 1832, died at the age of 85 years. To Mr. and Mrs. Rohe the following children were born : Herman, lives at Crete ; W. H., lives at Crete; Mary, the widow of Clarence Hanaca, lives in Chicago; Fred B., a sketch of whom appears in this volume, lives at Crete; and Charles J., the subject of this sketch.

Charles J. Rohe was reared and educated at Crete. He attended Northwestern University at Watertown, Wis., and began his career as a druggist at Milford, 111. After four years he went to Canton, 111., and from there to LaSalle. About 1888 he established a drug business in Crete in partnership with his brother, W. H. Rohe. They purchased two drug stores and moved the stock into the present store and the brothers continued in the business together for 15 years, when Mr. Rohe purchased his brother's interest. It is the oldest business house in Crete and Mr. Rohe is regarded as one of the community's dependable merchants and reliable business men.

Mr. Rohe is a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church, of which he has served as deacon and treasurer, and he belongs to the Lincolnshire Country Club, and the Steuben Club of Chicago. He has always been a Republican and has filled the office of township clerk. He was one of the founders of the Chamber of Commerce at Crete.

M. L. Pfoff is a veteran of the World War and an enterprising young business man of Goodenow, where he is engaged in the general mercantile business. He was born at Foosland, 111., Dec. 7, 1897, the son of L. M. and Nora (Ball) Pfoff.

L. M. Pfoff is a well known resident of Foosland, where he has engaged in the general mercantile business for 35 years. Both he and his wife were born at Foosland. She died in 1926 at the age of 48 years. To Mr. and Mrs. Pfoff were born four children: M. L., the subject of this sketch ; Richard H., died in infancy ; Lloyd D., attends the University of Illinois ; and Florence Mae, lives at home.

M. L. Pfoff obtained his education in the public schools and was connected with his father's business for several years. He later went to Chicago where he was identified with the American Manganese Steel Company for four years. In 1922 he came to Goodenow and four years later purchased the general mercantile business of J. H. Bahlman, his father-in law. This store, one of the pioneer business houses of the township, was owned and operated by Mr. Bahlman for 35 years.

On June 2, 1918, Mr. Pfoff was married to Miss Ruby Bahlman of Goodenow, the daughter of J. H. and Anna Bahlman. Mr. Bahlman was born in Washington Township, Will County, Dec. 12, 1866. He was reared on a farm and early in life engaged in business at Goodenow. He also owned a store at Eagle Lake. He was married in 1890 to Miss Anna Wehrmann, and they had four children : Harry, lives at Portland, Ore. ; Ruby Pfoff; WiFiam, a graduate of Illinois State University, married Miss Jane Britton, lives at Chicago Heights; and Helen, a graduate of Bloom Township High School and Purdue University, now a teacher in the Marseilles (111.) High School. Mr. Bahlman was a Republican and a member of the Lutheran Church, and a prominent citizen of Goodenow. He served as postmaster, justice of the peace and school director. He died April 23, 1926, and is buried in the Beecher Cemetery. Mrs.

Pfoff was educated in the public schools of Goodenow and is a graduate of Illinois State Normal School. Before her marriage she was a teacher in the schools of McLean County.

John C. Diersen, who lives retired at Crete, is among the substantial and representative citizens of Will County. He was born at Crete, Dec. 25, 1862, the son of J. W. and Ingle (Dennis) Diersen.

J. W. Diersen, deceased, was the son of John H. Diersen, a pioneer settler of Chicago, and Crete Township. John H. Diersen died in 1886 and his son died in 1898. Both were farmers and spent the greater part of their lives on the Diersen homestead, which consisted of 240 acres in Crete Township. Engle (Dennis) Diersen was a native of Germany and died in 1900. The following children were born to Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Diersen: John C. P. G., the subject of this sketch; William H., lives in Crete Township; Louise, married Philip Piepenbrink, lives at Crete; Henry, Herman, August, and Gotlieb, all live at Crete; Amelia, died in 1926, was the wife of Robert Schlemmer, of Crete; Emma, married Chris Koelling, lives in Crete Township; Anna, married Herman Piepenbrink, lives in Crete Township; Otto, lives at Kansas City, Mo. ; and Walter lives in Chicago.

John Conrad Philip Gustav Diersen spent his boyhood on his father's farm and for three years served an apprenticeship at the tinsmith trade, for which he received wages of $50 per year. He then went to Nebraska, where he disposed of a lumber claim in exchange for the corner hardware store at Crete. Mr. Diersen conducted this business continuously from 1886 until 1923, at which time he retired. The store is now operated by his son, John A. Diersen. This pioneer business was founded in 1838, and is one of the oldest business houses of Will County.

On Nov. 21, 1888, Mr. Diersen was united in marriage with Miss Sophie Piepenbrink, of Crete, the daughter of Otto Piepenbrink. To them were born six children: Linda, married Henry Lorenzen, lives at Crete, and they have three children, Ruth, Vernon, and Walter; John A., lives at Crete, married Miss Alvina Koelling, and they have a son* John Roberts; Martin, lives in Chicago, married Miss Ingeron Samuel-

Mr. Diersen is identified with the Democratic party in national politics. He and his family are members of the German Evangelical Lutheran Church.

W. F. Mussman, deceased, was a funeral director and well known business man of Crete. He was born at St. John's, Indiana, July 11, 1861, the son of W. L. and Sophia (Bume) Mussman.

\V. L. Mussman was born in Germany and was among the early settlers of Crete Township, Will County. For a short time he lived in Indiana, where he followed general farming and stock raising. He died at Grant Park, 111., in 1904, and his wife, also a native of Germany, died Nov. 13, 1922. To Mr. and Mrs. Mussman the following children were born: W. F., the subject of this sketch; George, farmer, lives at Welcome, Minn.; Minnie, married Charles Stadt, lives in Chicago; Herman lives on the old homestead at Grant Park, Kankakee County, 111. ; Sophia, deceased, was the wife of August Planske; Henry, died in September, 1926; Amelia, deceased, was the wife of Henry Homeyer; Lizzie, deceased, was the wife of Herman Kurth; and two children died in infancy.

W. F. Mussman was five years old when his parents removed to Crete Township. He attended the district schools and in 1889 became interested in the furniture and undertaking business here. For several years he specialized in undertaking with his son, the business being known as W. F. Mussman & Son.

On April 22, 1890, Mr. Mussman was married to Miss Ella Koester, a native of Germany. One child was born to this union, George W., born Nov. 15, 1891. He was educated in the public schools of Crete and in 1914 was graduated from the Barnes School of Embalming. He now conducts the undertaking business established by his father. He married June 10, 1914, Miss Helen Luecke, of Crete, the daughter of John and Sophia Leucke. They have two children, Gerald, bora Jan. 27, 1920 ; and Robert, born Aug. 10, 1926.

Mr. Mussman was a member of the Evangelical Church of Chicago Heights, and belonged to the Modern Woodmen of America. He served as chief of the local fire department from 1909 until 1924. He died Aug. 15, 1928.

Arthur C. Kieper, who is manager of the Farmers Grain Company, of Goodenow, is among the enterprising young business men of Will County. He was born at Chicago Heights, 111., Nov. 8, 1895, the son of Albert and Bertha (Mach) Kieper.

Albert Kieper was born in Germany in 1852. He came to the United States about 1877 and settled at Goodenow, in Will County. He later lived in Chicago Heights, but returned to Goodenow, where he died in 1912. He is buried in Beecher Cemetery. Mr. Kieper was well known for many years as a successful farmer of Crete Township. His widow resides at Goodenow. To Mr. and Mrs. Kieper the following children were born: Paul, lives at Crete; Clara, married Henry Ohlerking, lives at Madison, 111.; Ella, deceased, was the wife of Wilbur Hough, of Chicago Heights; Mary, married Emil Aberstich, lives at Roselle, 111.; Arthur C, the subject of this sketch; Henry and Harry, who lives at home.

Arthur C. Kieper received his education in the public schools of Goodenow. He began his business career as a bookkeeper for the Gage Hat Company, of Chicago, and six months later went with the Austin Savings Bank, Chicago, in whose employ he remained for eight years. Since 1919 he has held his present position as manager of the Farmers Grain Company of Goodenow.

The officers of the Farmers Grain Company are as follows: Fred Kuhlman, president; Edward Wassman, vice president; and George W. Baker, secretary and treasurer. Directors are: Gus Schrewe, Harry S. Graham, Fred Kuhlman, Edward Wassman, and George W. Baker. All are residents of Crete Township.

D. J. Steevens, owner and editor of the Beecher Herald, is among prominent newspaper men of Will County. He was born at LaCrosse, Wis., May 17, 1871.

Mr. Steevens was eleven years of age when his family removed to Winona. They later lived in the then Dakota territory and Huron, South Dakota. After completing his schooling Mr. Steevens learned the printer's trade at LaCrosse, Wis., having returned to his birthplace when a young man. He later went to Livingston, Mont., and from there to Helena, Mont., where he was connected with the newspaper of Russel B. Harrison, son of President Harrison. He later returned to LaCrosse, where he was employed on a daily newspaper. In 1897 he purchased a newspaper at Arcadia, Wis., which he owned for nine years. In 1907 he came to Beecher and on September 6th of that year published th1- first issue of the Beecher Herald. It is a weekly publication and has a widespread circulation of 900 subscribers. Mr. Stevens has been highly successful in this undertaking and attributes his success to his ideal of service at all times. The newspaper plant represents an investment of approximately $18,000.00.

Mr. Steevens was married in 1895 to Miss Margaret Gleason, of Arcadia, Wis. They have two children: 1. Charles A., a veteran of the World War, is identified with the First National Bank of Chicago Heights, and lives at Steger. He married Miss Mary Newquist, of Steger, and they have a son, Jack. 2. Mae, who married Walter Newquist, of Steger, and they have one son, David Steevens.

Mr. Stevens has always been a Republican. He held the office of village clerk for three terms. He won the first election by one vote, the second by 37 votes, and was elected the third term without opposition. He is a member of the Catholic Church of Steger and belongs to the Knights of Columbus, Third Degree, and Catholic Order of Foresters.

George A. Batterman, of Beecher, is one of the successful and well known business men of Will County. He was born in Lake County, Ind., Dec. 12, 1887, the son of Albert and Leona (Ostermeyer) Batterman.

Albert Batterman was born in Crete Township in 1859, the son of Fred Batterman, a native of Germany. The Batterman family settled in Will County during the early days and were well known farmers of this section. Albert Batterman died in 1897, and his widow, a native of Washington Township, resides at Beecher. She was the daughter of Conrad Ostermeyer, a pioneer of Washington Township. To Mr. and Mrs. Batterman were born two children : George A., the subject of this sketch; and Ella, married William C. Selk, lives at Beecher.