Williamson County, Illinois - The whole text, 1905 (part 5 of 9)

Benjamin Eura Griggs Benjamin B. Griggs

Was the youngest son of a large family in Perry County, Ohio. His parents, Benjamin and Anna Marie (Struble) Griggs, moved west from New Jersey in an early day, and settled in the heavy timber of Ohio, among bear, deer, wild turkeys and Indians. They both lived to a very old age, upwards of 80. and were buried where they had lived in Ohio. The subject of this sketch was born in Perry County, August 4th, 1846. His father was a nurseryman and brought up his son to the business, which he followed until the war. Although but 17 years old, he enterel the service in 1863 and served until the close of the war. He enlisted in the 31st Ohio, Co. G., 1st Brigade, 3rd Division, 14th Army Corps under Pap Thomas, with whom he served in all the terrible battles in and around Chattanooga. Missionary Ridge, Lookout Mountain and Atlanta, and followed Sherman "From Atlanta to the Sea." He was under fire every day ani night through all that memorable seige and was never wounded or sick in the hospital an hour during the whole time of his two years' active service, and was mustered out at Columbus, Ohio, at the close of the war in 1865. The 31st took its old flagstaff, with 82 bullet-holes in it and the flag hanging in ribbons, with them to Columbus, where it now remains in the State Military Museum.

Two years after the war, April 4, 1867, he was married to Miss Sarah Margaret Fisher, and in 1869 came to Moultry County, Illinois. Later they moved to Harrisburs, in Saline County, and about 1S9R settled in Marion. ilr. Griggs sold out his farm in Saline County and bought a brick-yard and grounds at Marion, on East College St., near the Fair Grounds, and engaged in brick-making, which he followed until within a few months, when he sold out to his boys.

In connection with his farming and nursery business he ran a saw and grist mill for about 15 years. Although an active and ambitious man and a strong Republican in politics, he never ran for an office. He is the father of eight children, of whom five are living. Their names, in the order of their birth, are: Mrs. Marie Josephine Clark, Saline Co.; Roy Griggs, Saline Co.: Sydney C. Griggs, Marion: Bertha Griggs, Carterville: Benjamin Eura Griggs, Marion. His first wife died March 19. 1904, at Marion, and he was unitel in marriage with Miss Pauline Campbell, of Marion, September 2:), 190 4.

Was born in Connecticut February 24, 1S21. He came while a child to Indiana and in 1S40 moved to Williamson County. He was a cabinet maker by trade, but snuffing the battle afar off he was very active in .getting up the 1st Illinois regiment, commanded by Col. Newby, for the Mexican war. Capt. John M. Cunningham, the father of Mrs. Logan, was chosen captain of his company, and .Tno. A. Logan, First Lieutenant. There were no railroads in those days, and the brave 1st Regiment had nothing for it but to foot it over to Santa Fe, Xew Mexico. They started from Alton and it was a brave and weary mai-ch, up hill and ^own again, and it took them two good years to do it in, and they didn't get a chance to fire a shot, for the little scrimmage with the greasers was snuffei out before they reached Santa Fe, but they didn't know it. This fiasco took place in 1S47, and soon after Lieut, (then Jlajor) White took a trip to California, across the plains.

In the Spring of 185 7 a vacancy occurred in the office of County Clerk, and White was chosen to fill it. He came home, served out the term and was re-elected twice. In 1861 he resigned his office and entered the army. He was very active in raising the 31st. Illinois, and was made Lieut. Colonel in recognition of his services. He fought at the battle of Belmont, where he had his horse shot under him. and was killed at the memorable seige of Fort Donaldson. In 1863 his regiment raised a marble monument in the Marion cemetery to his memorv, at a cost of $1,000.

Marion C. Campbell

Marion C. Campbell was the son of Cyrus and Hannah Campbell. He was born in Williamson County January 12th, 1S34. He was married to Hannah P. Cunningham in 1S60, by whom he had three children, two sons and one daughter. His wife, Hannah, died in April, 1864, the sons having died before the mother. The daughter. .\nna C, married John D. R. Turner, and they now reside in Springfield, Missouri, his second wife, Cyrene H. Cunningham, a sister to his first wife, who still survives him, and lives in Greenville, Mississippi, where he died July 12th, 1902, at the age of GS years and 6 months.

His father died when he was about eleven years of age, his mother and young sister (now Mrs. Stilley) going to live with his brother, Monroe Campbell. He attended school at Bainbridge, taught by Isaac Stockton, until he mastered the three "R's," readin', 'ritin' and 'rithmetic. At the same time he would work in the store and do anything his brother had for him to do. In fact, he was put in the store before he was tall enough to reach the goods on the shelves.

At this early age he began the struggle for an independent, useful life. By his energy and industry he developed business ability so rapidly that his brother trusted him with the whole management of the business and store and would call him in consultation over business. When about fifteen years old his brother sent him to Missouri to look after some business affairs in that state. While there he began his career of stock trading by buying a lot of young cattle, which proved to be a profitable investment, but he often said the first money he ever made was by swapping off a bald-faced Bay pony and getting five dollars boot. About the year 18.56 he entered into partnership with John Goodall in the dry goods ani stock business, which for long years was a thriving and successful business to themselves and the County. Who of the old settlers does not remember Goodall and Campbell? These two men were always true friends, like brothers almost.

Curt Campbell, as he was known to every man, woman and child, was a friend to everybody, especially to those in distress and trouble. He has gone on more bonds and security than any man in the County. He fed and clothed many of the poor. He was generous to a fault.

He was intcested in and identified with all public improvements, and was a friend to religion and education. By and throusrh his influence and keen foresight, Marion has many improvements and advantages. He was a man of progress and push. Williamson County Agricultural Association owes its existence and reputation to his untiring ener,g>- and perseverance. He was president of the Association a long time.

After many years of a successful business career. Dame Fortune played him fickle, and the reverses came thick and fast. But nothing daunted that courageous, noble spirit. He worked even harder than ever in his younger days, and had, after many hard years of strength

But alas, "Man proposes but God disposes." He was as popular and as well known in Greenville as in his old home, and the expression from all when he passed away was, "A noble, good an i upright man has been taken from us. He acted his part well on the stage of life, leaving behind him a good name for deeds well done."

Cyrexe H. Campbell

Cyrene H. Campbell was born July 14, 1846, in Marion, Illinois. She was educated at St. Vincents Academy, Ky., where she received medals for good conduct and industry. She joined the Baptist church August 22, 1865, and remained a consistent, working member of that church until she left it to unite with the Christian church, of which she is still an active, wide awake member. I am told she was largely instrumental in building the Christiaa church at Marion, and since her residence in Greenville ha? aided in building the church and encouraging the cause of Christ, -'he is a f,ieu> ber of the King's Daughters. She, with other good ladies, is doing a wonderful work in charity.

She was married to M. C. Campbell March 19, 1866. They lived in Mr.rion thirty years, Tnd then (ame South, where she still resides. She has many, many kind, loving friends, which she and her husband have made. All that ever have known them in their adopted Southern home, love them.

J. M. Burkhart is a native of Knox County, Tennessee, where he was born June S, 1841. His father was Peter Burkhart, who was born in Hagerstown, Md., Nov. 1, 17S5. His mother was Anna Gilliam, also a native of Knox County. Tenn., where she was born in 1801. The father died in 1869 and the mother in 1889, both in Knox County.

Mr. Burkhart's early life and until the Autumn of 1862 was spent in Tennessee. From the age of 16 to that of 2 5 he worked at the carpenter's trade, and his education was limited to the public schools of that County. In 1S62 he came to Marion and in 1869 entered the ranks of the Dry Goods Fraternity. In 1873 he entered into partnership with H. Goodall and opened a store on the very spot now occupied by him and his sons in the dry goods business. The firm was known as Goodall and Burkhart, and continued under that arrangement until 1882, when he bought out Mr. Goodall. For five or six years he run his business alone, but in 1S90 sold a half interest to A. J. Binkley, which lasted for thirteen years or until July 21, 190 3, when he bought out Mr. Binkley, whose failing health prevented him from longer confinement to business. The firm of J. M. Burkhart and Sons was then formed and still remains.

When the First National Bank was organized in 1S91, he helped organize it and was elected its cashier. He could not, however, fulfill its duties and run his store, so he resigned, and two years later sold all his liank stock and retired from the company.

In .Tuly of 1903. when the present Marion State and Savings Bank was incorporated, he was one of the original stockholders and its Vice President. He is still a stockholder, but not an officer, preferring to take the position of Vice President of the "Williamson County Savings Bank, of which his son is cashier, which he did upon its organization.

Mr. Burkhart married Ellen Spiller May 2, 1S7 2. She was born in Spillertown November 10, 1S50, and has given birth to nine children, whose names in the order of their birth are as follows: Annie and Lena, deceased: Carl. Will. Jean, Kate, Ethel, Ralph and Ruby. He was a member of the Masonic lodge for forty years last May. He is republican in politics, but has never aspired to office. He affiliates with the Christian church, of which his wife is a member.

The subject of this sketch was born in Grassy Precinct, Williamson County, Illinois, September 5, 1857. He was reared on a farm, attending school winters until 1S7T, when he spent the Spring term at the Southern Illinois Normal University at Carbondale. He began teaching in 1875 and taught for ten years under A. N, Lodge. County Superintendent, farming summers the meanwhile. July 12, 1877, at the age of 20, he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah D. Fly, the daughter of Rev. W. L. Fly. They have no living children.

In October. 1S9G, he was ordained a minister in the Missionary Baptist church, and for some years served four different churches of his denomination as pastor. In August, 1897, he moved into Marion and in 1898 was appointed deputy collector under Sheriff Parks, and the year following was reappointed by Sheriff Gray. While still living on his farm he was elected a Justice of the Peace r.nd served for four years. Also

In September, 1903, he entered into partnership with James A. Felts and opened a book-store on Block 14. ojjposite the northwest corner of the public square. The partners erected the very handsome brick building they use for that purpose. Mr. Baker is a very efficient and faithful member of the church to which he belongs and one of its elders.

Ross H. Cunningham

\Vas born at Crab Orchard November IS, 1877. He graduated from Marion High School in the class of '97. worked in The Leader office about a year and then enlisted for the Spanish war in the 4th III. Vol. Inf.. Co. C, Capt. E. E. Barton in command. He was mustered in in May, 1898, and went into camp at Jacksonville, Florida, and from there to Savanna, Georgia. The boys were, however, too late to see actual service as Savannna was evacuated five days before the regiment arrived there on the transport Mobile, on the 5th day of January. 1899. They remained, however, in Cuba three months for camp drill and practice marching in the interior, and returned by way of Tampa and Augusta, where they were mustered out May 2, 1899. After a short time spent in The Leader office and Gallaghers' Confectionery, he went into Cline's Drug Store. where he remained for two years and three months. About eight months ago he went to work for Mr. Bundy, where he still remains.

He is a Republican in politics, a member of the M. E. church and fraternally is Prelate of Monitor Lodge No. 236, Knights of Pythias, and a member of the Social Club of Silver Skulls.

A. E. Harper

The subject of this sketch is the principal owner of and president of the Marion Light and Water Co. Mr. Harper is a native of Pennsylvania, is of Scotch and Irish ancestry that took part in the Revolutionary struggle of America, and from such stock inherits the sturdy business character and energy that has marked his relations with the citizens of Marion.

He became interested in Marion when he came to investigate the coal fields around us. which was done in the interests of the Great Steel Corporation. He advised the purchase of thousands of acres now owned by the Steel Corporation and others connected therewith, and therefore

Mr. Harper is a heavy holder of Marion real estate besides being interested in our Light and Water Plants, and is a firm believer in the future of Marion.

Mrs. Cena A. McCown is the widow of Major James D. McCown, who was born February 7, 1824, in Robinson County, Tennessee, and died of camp fever March 10. 18 63. He was a farmer for many years, but sold out and went into the Dry Goods business in Marion, which he followed until the war broke out. when he sold his interest to his partner, M. C. Campbell, and enlisted in the 12Sth Illinois. He was never in actual service, but remainel at Mound City with his regiment, drilling until his death. Mrs. McCown was born February 16. 1828, in this County, before its separation from ^ranklin, and was married July IS. 1844. The death of her husband left her with seven small children to provide for and, remaining a widow for forty-one years, she has spent her life in rearing them. She is a member of the Missionary Baptist church. Her faith has through a long life been supplemented by good works, and. surrounded by her children and grand children, she sees the end draw near without anxiety or regret. The Bible has always been her counselor and its Divine Author her support. Her wisdom has come from above, and she has found abundant strength to bear her burdens by "Leaning upon the Everlasting Arms."

Joseph L. Calvert

The subject of this sketch was 'he son of J. N. Calvert, who came from Alabama and settled in Massac County. 111., in March, 1836. He afterwards moved to Pope County, and died in 1878, at the age of eighty-one years. His wife's name was Cynthis. She was a Tennessee lady and died in 1832. when Joseph, her son. was but eight years old. He was born about four miles from Golconda. in Pope County. February 19, 1824. and received in his boyhood such education as his parents could give him in that early day bofore the free school system was thought of. He was brought up a -"arpenter by trade and worked at it from 1845 to 1890. For eight y-^ars he sold lumber for Mr. Vick in the vards now owned by W. G. Cochran. His eighty odd years sit lightly on him, notwithstanding his laborious life. He uses a cane a little, reads without glasses, and his hearing and memory are very little out of -epair. His mind is a storehouse of the events of long ago, aad he can entertain his friends by the hour lelating incidents of his early life. He is a member of the Cumoerland Presbyterian church, but previously belonged to the New School Presbyterians. While a member of ihat church, he knew Rev. Mr. Ingersol, the father of the famous "3oi).' He served that society here for some years. His son was a lazy and dissolute fellow and a disgrace to the good old man, spending his time hunting, fishing and lying in 'he shade or drinking and frolicking with very questionable companions. Mr. Ingersol bought a home here north and west of Marion about three-quarters of a mile, on the Willis Aikman place. Mr. Calvert is a Mason and a member of the Council.

Contrary to the well-nigh universal custom of this country, the subject of this sketch was born, reared and educated, was married and has always lived on the spot and in the house where he now lives. This is remarkable and noteworthy, but no more so than the well-preserved condition of both house and its owner. He first saw the light here in Marion November 10, 1854. On January 1, 1S79. he married a daughter of the venerable S. S. Vick and wife. Miss Parle Vick, who gave him seven children, two boys and five girls. One son died in infancy and his eldest daughter is the wife of Dr. Baker. Mr. Aikman is Democratic in politics, a member of the M. E. church South. President of the Board of Agriculture, one of the Board of Education and belongs to Fellowship Lodge, No. S9, A. F. and A. M.

William J. Spiller

V.'illiam J. Spiller is one of the oldest citizens of this County, who was born here. That interesting event dates as far back as October 4, 1833, when Williamson was a part of Franklin County. He was horn and raised on a farm at Spillertown where he and his worthv wife lived and worked and raised their family of fourteen chiHren.

Three years ago he moved to Marion. His schoolina; was only at the "Deestrict Skew! House." .\bout six years he spent at Carterville. in the General Merchandise business with his son-in-law and partner. J. V. Walker. For many years and until the first of the war. he was extensively engaged in the manufacture of tobacco, which his father followed before him and which he learned in his youth when at work in his father's factory. He has been for about forty years a member of

Fellowship Lodge No. 89, of the Royal Arch Masons, and is a Republican in politics, though not a politician. He is a charter member of the Christian Church, and has been an elder in it and one of its stanchest supporters from its organization. His marriage to Susan E. Goodall took place March 31, 1853, and of his eleven living children, nine of whom are girls, all except the youngest are happily married and have families of their own. He still owns and works part of the old homestead and one of the old coal mines.

The subject of this sketch comes of Scotch ancestry, who settled in Virginia and afterwards moved to Posey County, Indiana. When about eight years old his parents brought him to Staunton, McCoupin County, Illinois, where he remained until he was twenty-one. He then came to Sarahsville, Williamson Co.. III., where he was married January 16, 1834. to Miss Rebecca Casey. He had previously learned the hatter's tra'^e, and in 1839 came to Marion and began the manufacture of all kinds of hats. The year following he began the study of law under the late Judge Allen, and in 1S42 closed out his hat business and moved to Belleville, continuing his law studies for two years more, when he received his license to practice by Judge Underwood. In 1844, as soon as he received his parchment, he opened an office in Jonesboro. but three years later removed to Murphysboro, where he continued the practice of his profession for about five years. In the year of 1S52 the California gold fever carried him to Sacramento. He did not go overland but took the water route via Cairo, New Orleans and Panama, crossing the isthmus. He was four months on a sailing vessel before reaching San Francisco. Without unnecessary delay, he entered the gold fields of Sacramento, and was soon half owner of the Table Mountain mine, for which he was offered the snug sum of $10(1, ono, but refusing he was soon afterwards tricked out of it. and lost it all.

In disgust, he turned hi= back unon the whole business, an-" in the dead of winter started on horse-back for Walla Walla. Washington. He suffered much on that trip, often floundering through snow three feet deep in the mountains. On reaching Walla Walla, however, he immediately "stuck out his shingle" and resumed the practice of law. While practicing in the Illinois Courts he had become acquainted with .\braham Lincoln, and a warm friendship had sprung tip between them. In 1861 he received the appointment from Lincoln as Assessor of Internal Revenue for the then territory of Washington. His headquarters were at Olympia, Washington. He served in this important office, with eight assistants, until the assassination of the president brought Andy Johnson and a change of administration and officers, when he returned once more to his profession, which he continued to practice till his death. November 14. 1891.

Mrs. Mary L. Manier

Mrs. Mary L. Manier, widow of the late Judge John H. Manier. was born in Florence, Alabama, December 5th, 1830. Her father was Thos. C. Kelley, and her mother Caroline Cunningham. Her mother's brother. Capt. Cunningham, was a cousin to Mrs. John A. Logan. Her parents married in Florence, Alabama, but came overland to Paducah, Ky., in 1837. At a later date they came to Marion, and settled on a farm about two and a half miles to the northeast of where the town now stands. Mrs. Manier and her husband were married February 7th, 1849. He was an active man of business affairs and an efficient public officer for many years. He was a judge of the County Court for four years, and served as Justice of the Peace for ten years and Postmaster of Marion eight years. He was born December 17th, 1830, at Florence. Alabama, and died near Fort Scott, Kansas, November 21, 1893. Mrs. Manier was always an active member of the Christian church, and in 1846 taught the first Sunday School in the County. For a time she was a schoolmate of Bob Ingersol.

She has two living children. Emily, who married Fletcher L. Wooster, now chief weighmaster, of U. S. customs, and lives on Market St., San Francisco, Cal. Her son is

The following pleasing incident is taken from the Marion Post and is given as showing the universal appreciation of the citizens of Marion for Grandma Manier:

"Grandma Manier, an old and highly respected citizen of our city, celebrated her 73rd birthday Saturday. There were a large number of her friends and relatives assembled at her home, an-i each one carried her a beautiful present, which was very much appreciated by Grandma. She is a pleasant old lady and very much liked by the people of our city.

"Harry Campbell. Mrs. Kate Wyatt. Geo. C. Cunningham. Lilian Stone. Joseph Francis, Ivan Francis, Mrs. John Stone. Mrs. Maude Simmons, Pauline Duncan. Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Jenkins. William Campbell. Mrs. J. Post, of Clinton: Mr. and Mrs. Stuard. Mr. and Mrs. J. Cline,

Jasper Bradley

Adam Mclnturf was born in Carter County, Tennessee, January 1, 1821. His father was a native Tennesseean and his mother a Virginia woman. His maternal grandfather was a soldier in the war of the Revolution. Adam came to Hlinois in 1,S5 5 with his father's family and settled two an \ a half miles south of Marion on a farm which he sold in 1900. He has always clung to his farm, and had very little schooling. In his political affiliations he has always been steadfast, casting his first vote for Henry Clay, and was one of the three Republican voters of the County for many years. He has been eaually as conservative and steadfast in his religious opinions also, and has been a member of the Christian church for forty years. His cousin, Dannie Mclnturf, was one of the earliest of the adherents of Alexander Campbell, and became a very successful preacher in that communion in Carter Co., Tennessee. One of his nephews, James Mclnturf, is now a Chrisitan preacher at Clifton, Kansas.

He has been married twice. His first wife was Harriet Goodall, to whom he was united September 11. 1S5S, and by whom he has four living children. She died in 1866. He married again, February 14, 1867, Miss Mary Ann Jones, of whom he has three living children. He is a member of A. F. and A. M. Blue Lodge.

As far as is now known, the subject of this sketch enjoys the distinction of being the oldest continuous native resident of Williamson County, for he was born here August 12, 1S33, and has always lived here. His father was Pleasant Brailey, a native of North Carolina, who moved into East Tennessee and from there into Franklin County 7.5 years ago. He was a soldier in the Blackhawk War, but the date of his death cannot be given. He settled on a piece of government land within six miles of Marion, where he raised a numerous family. None of them could get much education in those days, but all were strong, able-bodied men and have lived long, active and useful lives. When about 40, Jasper took up the carpenter's trade anl has worked at it ever since. He married, February 22, 1S56. Miss Neita Elizabeth Nelson, who bore him six children and died two years ago. In November, 1903, he took for his second wife Pamelia Ann, the widow of Tom Jordan. She was born in 1855. He is a member of the South M. E. church, a Blue Lodje Mason and an Odd Fellow.

Isaac Newton Atwood

Isaac Newton Atwood was born in Williamson County, Tennessee, April 8th, 1S21, and was therefore S3 years old last April. He was married September 2 8, 1842, to Miss Hannah Hunt, daughter of Abel Hunt, in Tennessee. His wife was a native of Smith County, Tennessee, where she was born September 17, 1817. She will, therefore, be 87' years old next September, and is at present the oldest living person in Williamson County. The young couple came with team and wagon with a few cooking utensils and sparse bedding and clothing, immediately after their marriage in 1842 and settled in Dade Co., Mo.. 40 miles northwest of Springfield. After about two and a half years they moved into Williamson County and took up government land in August, 1845, They deeded 120 acres, from which they have never parted, but still hold title to the most of it.

For sixty years the citizens of Williamson County have counted his ticket for the Democratic party as regularly as they counted the months, and were never at a loss where to look for Isaac more than for the rising sun or the rivers and streams of their native heath. He and his good wife were "planted" and have flourished as a "Green Bay Tree." Six children were born to them, five of whom are still living and settled about them. They are:

Edwin Young, Sarah Elizabeth, who died March 5, 1865, Isaac Newton, Martha Jane, who married Henry Mose. Mary Catharine, whose husband, John W. Duncan, died not long ago, and Moses Able Atwood.

The old couple are quite energetic yet, and can get about pretty well, but are cared for by their children and grand children by turns. That duty at present devolves upon a pretty granddaughter. Miss Martha Rutha, daughter of Edwin Young Atwood.

Among the old relics of the past which the Souvenir man unearthed is a castiron kettle shaped much like an acorn, having four le<s, whicli the young couple used when they went to housekeeping in 1842, and another holding about a gallon which the old lady persists in calling an oven, although a younger generation would insist is a kettle, but in which Mrs. Atwood baked her corn bread, sweet potatoes, coon and possum, among the glowing coals of a wood Are or hangins on a crane in the fire-place, in those happy primitive days, before wealth and fashion had built up impassable barriers between our American Aristocracy and the common people, from whom they sprang. But the ancient "oven" came from North Carolina to Tennessee and the young couple cooked their first and many a substantial meal in it, and it is as whole and serviceable as it was 75 or more years ago. But it rarely does service now, as the old folks and their offspring have become so "aristocratic" that they use a good cook stove and plenty of the convenient modern utensils with it. They now count their offspring as five children, thirty-six grandchildren and forty great-grandchildren, thirteen more than Jacob took with him into Egvpt. May they multinly in this modern Eg>'pt beyond even good oH Jacob, and fill the land with their progeny.

Wm. Spratt Ry Fvans. M. D.

This venerable old gentleman, now verging upon 96 ye^'-s olfl. with a reasonable prospect "f reaching the century mark is the son of Benjamin Moseley Evans, a tailor of Murphysboro, North Carolina. He was born on the ISth day of July, 1808, in Southampton County, Vivginia, spent his youth in Murphysboro and was educated by his father long before the days of the free school system rendered that task a light and pleasurable one. His first wife was Miss Mary J. Moore, who was united to him by the Rev. Isaac Collard in Kentucky.

years later they moved to Marion, which has been their home ever since. At a forgotten cate he entered the Eclectic Medical College in Cincinnati, and took up the study of medicine under Dr. Beach, of Xew York. He spent about three years in college, from which he graduated, but it is impossible to give the date, as his papers, in the lapse of time, have been lost, but he began to practice in 1S46 and kept it up until his advancing years compelled him to refuse to make further calls or respond to the appeals of the sick. He was upwards of Tn when he quit practicing.

After the death of his first wife he marrieJ Miss Martha A. Moore, her sister. May 6th. lS4o. the Rev. R. Fisk ofiBciating. Hi? family consists at the present time of seven living children. twenty-=ix -grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, For a person of his are he is remarkably well-preservei. His mental faculties are strong, his hearing almost perfect and his sight tolerably good. He enjoys good health and is quite strong and active, going to and fro without other help than a cane, and very little from that.

He is now and has been for many years an active member of the M. E. Church South, joining it before the division and remaining with it ever since.

P. S. - Since the above was witten "Grandpa" Evans closed his life's labors and has been laid peacefully to rest until the great day. He died April 26. 1904.

Of the children of his first wife two survive him, Mrs. C. H. House, of this city, and Mrs. Fannie Preston, of Sewanee, Tenn. Of his last marriage there are still living one son. Dr. G. N. Evans, of Marion, and four daughters, Mrs. W. M. Davis, with whom he spent the closing davs of his life; Mrs. .Joseph Fozard. Mrs. G. T. Clawson, of Odin. 111., and Mrs, L, W. Carpender. of Blairstown. Mo. He was licensed to preach at an early age, while still in Virginia, and later joined the Louisville Conference of the M. E. church, and for some considerable time was an active itinerant in that church. He came with his family to Marion in 1SG9, and soon after gave up the practice of medicine, but continued to preach the gospel until age and infirmity closed his lips in death. Rev. W. T. Mathis, pastor of his church, delivered the funeral discourse, assisted by Rev. Dr. F. L. Thomson, pastor of the M. E. church, a large concourse of people attending.

Is one of the few remaining relics of a past generation who linger beyond four score years. But although himself a native of Franklin County, he comes of the hardy North

His father was Rhoderick Reed, who was born in North Carolina April 6, 1796, from which place he emigrated to Robinson County, Tennessee, when young. He moved to Illinois and settled in Franklin Co. in 1S24 and died there in 1SS9, at the good old age of 9 3. His wife was Rebecca Sanders, who was born in ISIS and died about 1SS.5.

The subject of this sketch married Elenor Perry in IS 49, and by her has had eight children, all of whom are living and, except one, who lives in Franklin County, are settled in and around Marion. The wife died in 1S92.

Mr. Reed boasts of being a Democrat, "dyed in the wool, three ply find hard twisted." His first vote for president was cast for James K. Polk, and he has never since voluntarily omitted putting in a vote for the Democratic ticket.

In May. 1S47. he enlisted in Capt. Cunningham's Company for the Mexican war. marched overland to Santa Fe. drilled for 18 months and then, the war lieing over, marched back asrain. This was his first and last military experience, and our kindheartel Uncle Samuel remembers him on account of it - to the amount of $12 per month.

For about 14 years he has been an active member of the Missionary Baptist church and a Deacon for nearly as long, (but he don't draw a Iiension from it, although probably he ought). Maybe the Chief Paymaster takes that into account when Uncle Sam draws his monthly check for $12. But what does it matter how the books are kept, so long as he don't go hungry.

Mrs. Eijzabeth A. Chadwell

This venerable old pioneer, now nearing her Snth birthday, was born in Sangamon County. 111.. May 10th, 1S2 5. Her father was the Rev, John Shepherd, of the Southern Illinois Conference of the M. E. Church, a native of Pennsylvania, born in 1789, Her mother was Sarah Clark, born in Maryland in 1788. The Rev. John Shepherd died at the home of his daughter in Williamson County in 1860, and was followed to the silent land by his wife in 1875.

Mrs. Cha-'well's first husband was William Rufus Roberts, to whom she was united in 1841. He was a native of Tennessee and met with death by an accident in 184.5. They had two children. John L. Roberts and Sarah M. Roberts. Her second husband was Charles Chadwell. to whom she was married in 1S49. He was born in Virginia and died in 1S86. Three children were born of this union. William B. Chadwell, Eliza P. and Alice.

Mrs. Chadwell was born and bred a Methodist. Her father came from the Mt. Vernon circuit to the Frankfort circuit, then embracing the greater part of five present counties, a work that required four weeks to visit and preach at all the appointments, preaching almost every day, sometimes twice. They located at Zion church, where a two-room new log house was built for a parsonage, at the present site of Corinth. Her brother. Rev. Moses Shepherd, was pastor of Marion church in 1858, when it included Corinth. He was also Presiding Elder in IS 61, and died in the harness in 1862.

S. S. Vick is probably the oldest living continuous resident of Marion, and has been through a long life one of the most popular, active and useful of its citizens. Although nearly seventy-seven years old. he is rugged and sound, quick in action and stands straight on his legs. He reads without glasses, never lost but three teeth and has not an unsound one in his head. He is hardly ever sick and is always busy. He is certainly a well-preserve -1 specimen of the products of the Blue Grass State, of which he is a native. He was born June 23, 182 7, near Nashville, Tennessee, and moved to Russellville, Logan County, Ky., where he married Miss Martha J. Newton, February 6, 184 8. In 1S51 he moved his family, together with his father's, to Williamson County. Two years later he was elected constable and served for four vears. From 1854 to 185 5 he served as Deputy Sheriff, during which time he was appointed marshal of Marion. In 1S6S he was appointed Master-in- Chancery and served in that capacity two terms, then w-as elected Justice of the Peace and served four years. In 1865 he took the third census of the County, which then showed a population of only IS. 000. The County in those days was Democratic by a large majority, only three Republican votes being cast for a a;ood many years. Coming from a Democratic state and of a Democratic parentage, he was naturally a Democrat, but cast his first vote on a bet for Henry Clay for president. Howover, he put up his monev on James K. Polk, and won. He ioined the Masons in 1858, and the Odd Fellows in 1870. He is a tenth decree or Council Mason, and has been Master of the Blue Lodge, and Noble Grand of the Odd Fellows, For many years he was one of the i^irectors of the Williamson County Agricultural Association, and active in its affairs. He is an active member of the Methodist Church South, and served as Sunday School Superintendent for about twenty years. from its organization, and in almost every other capacity except that of Pastor. He has always been a strong, influential, working friend of education, is useful and popular everywhere, and will die in the harness.

Mrs. Sally S. Binkley

This venerable old lady, whose portrait appears in this book, will be 86 years old on the 22d day of November next. She is a native of Davison County, Tennessee, where she was born in ISIS. Her father was Henry T. Lee, who, coming from Virginia when a boy, settled 2 5 miles from Nashville. Tennessee. She grew to womanhool and married in Tennessee, not reaching Marion till May, 1852. Her husband was Jacob J. Binkley, to whom she was united in April, 1S39. He died October 26, 1876, leaving wife and four children.

An important and interesting incident of her life, indicative of the industrious character of the generation to which she belongs, now rapidly passing away, and giving us a glimpse of the manner of life of our forefathers is related. During the darkest days of the Civil War, near its close, she and her daughter, Mrs. Sherertz, and her companions carded, spun and wove, entirely by hand, woolen clothes from the sheep's back and cotton from the fields, and cut and made the garments by hand also. The cotton was cleaned of the seed by the tedious work of their nimble fingers, then carded, spun and woven and made into garments, both for men and women's wear, without the aid of our modern machines from the beginning to the end. Mrs. Binkley herself made several full suits of men's wear of blue and grey-mixed jeans, for which she received $2.00 a yard. The late J. H. Duncan, then sheriff, bought and wore one of her suits.

John A. Ensminger

Was born at Equality, Illinois, October 11, 1827. His father, Emanuel Ensminger, died in 1832, when John was but five years old, and the boy got very little booklearning. But in that new and vital country John did not want for teachers and the means of getting a very practical eiucation at that. He had one of the very best and most entertaining books in the world always open before him - the book af nature - and for teachers, millions of wild fowls, ducks, geese and turkeys, plenty of bear, deer and wolves. No one went hungry in those day for want of a fat turkey or a juicy steak of venison or bear. Settlers were two or three miles apart, but deer herded in packs of 25 or 30, bear could be killed any day without the trouble of hunting for them, and will turkeys roosted on every tree and often consorted with the tame ones in the barn yard. Wolves were numerous, but not saucy, for game was plenty, and their nightly serenades were not unpleasant to hear. Even buffalo had not yet wholly vanished beyond the setting sun, for about 1S64 Watt Heard killed a young bull on the big Saline, about six miles southeast of Equality. John spent about six

While at Shawneetown he made six or seven trips to New Orleans on flat boats, freighting corn, tobacco and pork. The goo's were not unfrequently all sold to the planters and their negroes on the way, peddled out at the river towns, the blacks, with the consent of their masters, buying as freely as the whites, according to their means.

In April, 1849, he first landed in Marion and went to work for an older brother, buying tobacco, and it is an indication of the flourishing state of the industry that soon after coming here his brother, M. S. Ensminger shipped 1,100 hogsheads of cured tobacco to New Orleans in a single season. All this was bought almost exclusively in this and the nearby counties of the state, Williamson, Gallatin. Saline, White, Hamilton and Franklin Counties. With the exception of one year at old Fort Winnebago, about 25 miles from Madison. Wisconsin, Mr. Ensminger has lived in Marion since 1849. He was raised a Democrat and always voted the Democratic ticket until the roar of the cannon in the battle of Ft. Sumpter, when he changed his politics and enlisted in the "Bloody" 128th 111., in August, 1862. It is a matter of history that that ill-starred organization "vaporized" and disappeared without ever fighting a battle. It is sufficient evidence, however, of the patriotism of Mr. Ensminger that he holds an honorable discharge and draws a pension to this day for rheumatism and chronic diarrhoea, contracted at Cairo. His discharge is dated at Cairo, April 5th, 1863. His efficiency as an ofl^icer is shown by the fact that he has served as Constable of Williamson County 27 years and as Deputy Sheriff five, four years under John H. Burnett and one under T. L. Dowell.

Mr. Ensminger keeps as a relic an old iron pot. used by his mother in ISOS, nearly a hundrei years ago. It was the first pot of her own she ever hung over the fire. The resolution of those old people is shown by the fact that the Father Emanuel walked 100 miles and back, to Vincennes, Ind., for a license to marry, which he secured and the couple were united at Shawneetown. John was married October 7. 1860, to

Miss .Martha J. Pulley, who died March 29, 1890, leaving only one living child out of eight she bore. This is Hannah, the wife of Mr. U. T. Simmons.

Mrs. Nannie Hendrickson

This lady has the distinction of being the first girl born in Marion, where she has ever since resided. She was born October 6, 1S43, and has been twice a widow. She married J. M. Goddard January 6, 1863, by whom she had three children, Mrs. H. C. Purdy, Mrs. D. F. Riser and Mrs. D. G. Fitzgerald. He died June 27, 1870. Her second marriage took place March 6, 1873, to Hartwell Hendrickson, who died December 29, 1899. By him she had four children, Mrs. W. B. Lamaster, Willis H. Hendrickson, Stella, who died in childhood, and Mrs. George Nance, wife of the grocer on North Market St.

Was born July 28. 1830, in Robinson County, Tennesse, and came to this County in January, 1849, settling on a quarter section which he deeded from the government. He has always been a farmer, but was an expert horse doctor as well. He has lived in this County since 1S49, except two short periods of six months each, and has held several minor offices in the County. He was Justice of the Peace for one year by appointment to fill a vacancy. Deputy SherifT six months and Constable for seven years.

He has been three times a benedict. He married his first wife, with whom he lived 4 7 years, June 16, 1862. Her name was Rachael M. Maxey and she died July 24. 1879, after having borne eleven children, six of whom are dead. His second marriage occurred September 15, 1S99. to Mary Williams, the widow of Rolla Williams. She died December 13, 1902, and on the 10th of the following June, 1903, he again chose a partner in the person of the widow of M. C. Hall, with whom it is to be hoped he may yet spend many peaceful and happy years.

Was the fourth son of Samuel and Henrietta Aikman. who were natives of North Carolina and came to Marion in 1837 with a family of six boys and three girls. They settled on the west side before the town was platted or built, while this County was still a part of Franklin.

and entered a strip of land from the government, half a mile wide and a mile and a half long, lying along where the C. & E. I. Ry. now runs. This tract is one of the finest in the County and formed the original foundation for the prosperity of the family.

William was born April 2, 1S25. He married Mary Elizabeth Cox March 3d. 1S47. They began life on a little farm of 40 acres, where Villi? m Hendrickson now lives, and where he continued to live until his death, which occurrei June 12. 1S90. He was a man of unusual power, both of mind and body, and of inexhaustible vitality and unwearied activity. He owned and run a large farm, built two saw-mills and a planin.? mill, manufactured brick, built and run the steam roller mills, now known as the Marion Flouring Mills, owned and run by W. W. Whittington & Co. He was enterprising and progressive and always foremost in all measures looking towards improvement. He always bought the best of everything. He bought and used up-to-date machinery and improved stock of all kinds. He kept no scrub horses, cows or hogs, but was always on the lookout for something better. He bought the first steam thresher ever used in the County.

He was a man of energy and of strong will and steadfastness of purpose. Whatever he undertook he completed, whatever the obstacles might he. He kept many men in his employ and was of a generous and kindly nature, giving freely and liberally for all good purposes.

When he began housekeening he erected a family altar, and he and bis faithful wife had family worship morning and evening for the 4 3 years and six months of their married life. They were members of the Presbyterian Church, of which X. A. Hunt was the pastor, and with their children were regular attendants while it stood When the commotions attendant on the Civil War reduced and finally brought the little church to an end. they joined the Methodist Episconal church that they might have a reli<rious home and center. He continue'" in full fellowship with that organization until his death and his wife stands connected with it until the present time.

Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Atkman

Was born In North Carolina, March 17, 1827. Her father's name was Thomas Cox. She was a worthy belnmate of such a man as William Aikman, and kept her house and reared and educated her children in the same thorough, systematic and workmanlike manner which characterized all that he did. The home was the abode of peace and love, and the benediction of heaven rested upon the household. She was the mother of nine children, of whom three are now living. Their names were: John Xewton, who died at the age of 20: Rosa Lee, now the wife of William Hendrickson (they bought the old homestead and built a new house, where they now reside): Thomas Samuel, who died in infancy: Sarah C, the wife of George Ingram: Louisa Mitchell, who died in May 1SS8, whose only son, George, was murdered by a drunken wretch at West End, 111.: George Jerome Aikman, with whom she makes her home: Theodore Aikman, who died at the age of 2.1: Francis Kimball, who married Dan Kimball and died in 1SS5, at the age of 23.

The subject of this sketch is one of the race of hardy pioneers of Tennessee whose lives of humble virtue and practical good endear them to all lovers of their kind, regardless of the minor questions of politics or of religion. He was born in Murray County, Middle Tennessee, February 11, 1S21. His education was limited but he made good use of what he got, and lived and worked in Tennessee until IS years of age, when be came to Johnson County in lS6n. Four years later, July 2. 1S64, he moved to Williamson County, where he has lived ever since.

He began life as a farmer, but as he grew older took up carpenter work and house painting, and finally learned the cabinet make-s trade, at which he workel steadily for 21 years.

He was converted to Christ in 1837 and served the M E. church South as class leader for some years. In the fall of 1870, six years after coming to Marion, he was licensed to preach, and for about 30 vears, and until incapacitated by his increasing infirmities, he supported himself by laboring with his hands ind preached the gospel in all the surrounding towns and villages of Williamson County.

On December 9th, 1839, he was married to Miss Sarah Page, a native of Georgia. Of her eight children were born, only two now living. She died February 28. 1888. Mr. Hudspeth, although now past S3 years old, is still strong and vigorous in mind, but growing feeble in body, and will soon be with us only as a memory. May his faith and works find the reward of the faithful.

the mountains of his native state, in that Highland atmosphere fatal to slavery, whether in Scotland, Norway, Switzerland or America, He was born December 6, 1S27, and came to Marion in 1852. He was raised on a farm among the mountains and has always followed farming and fruit raising. He got as much an education as his parents could afford to pay for in those early da.vs, finishing off with a term at the Academy in Tennessee. Although he came to Illinois before the Civil War made the issue a sharp one, he was always an Abolitionist and a Republican, and voted for Abraham Lincoln. He is a man of intelligence, of great resolution and independence of character, and was a convert to the Free Silver theories of Bryan. At present he might be called a Bryan Republican.

When he first came here, with a wife and two children, he landed on a farm at Pulley's Mills with three dollars in his pocket, but he went at nnce to raising and dealing in tobacco, and was very successful from the start. His last shipment to New York netted $30,000, but he was in the failure of Sam Thompson and Co. and 'Squires Taylor and "^o., who were tobacco dealers and bankrupted all this part of Illinois, Rut the tobacco industry declining in this region he never recoverei his loss, but has been content with a bare living.

His first wife was Eliza Swatzell, to whom he was married March 22. 184 8. She bore him two children in Tennessee and died in 18S2. On the 11th of the following May he took for his second wife Gracia Latham, a Kentucky lady, from whom five children were born, but three now living.

This old gentleman passed the ISth milestone the 20th day of last March, and is still of exceptional vigor and activity. He was born in Williamson County in 1836. His father was Edward Franklin, and his mother Julia A. Bradley, who had six children and died while they were all young.

George was raised by Thomas Pulley, who came from A'ir.ginia. Mr. Pulley took him when he was 13 years old and he remained with him eight years. He was raised n farmer and has always followed if.

May 3. 1S06, he married Delia Elizabeth Huffman, who bore him 13 children and died November 22, 1900. Eight of the 13 children are living in Marion. In the fall of 1S62 he had the misfortune to enlist in

This lady is one of the few remaining pioneers of the County and only four months and nineteen days younger than Mrs. Sallie Binlvley, herself next in age to the oldest living woman in the County. She is also a native of Tennessee, where she was born April 11, 1819. Her parents were Jacob and Elizabeth Miller, old residents of Tennessee. Her husband was Daniel Sherertz, who was born January 11th, 1808, and died at Marion about 1884. They were married February 2 3'', 1S4.3. and had seven children, all Tennesseeans by birth.

Sarah Catharine was born January 6, 1844; Elizabeth Jane, born June 4th, 184G- James Samuel, born August 30, 1851, and Malinda Ann., born March 24, 1854. About the close of the war, in 1865, the family came to Marion, bringing Jacob Miller with them, his wife, Elizabeth, having died some time before. After the trouble was over, however, Jacob returned to Tennessee and died there.

Was born in Davison County, Tennessee, March 31, 1830. His father was born in 1806 in Gouchland Co., Virginia. He settled in Franklin County, Illinois, in December, 1S38, and died September 19, 1869. His wife's name was Jane Sanders, who was born in Robinson County, Tennessee, and died nine days before her husband, in 1869. Mr. Lee has never married, but has kept Bachelor's Hall for the greater portion of 65 years. He has lived in the country. He landed here February 10th, 1839, and has lived the quiet life of a farmer ever since.

His brother, Francis Marion Lee, died the 15th day of last March, his half-sister, Mrs. Sallie S. Binkley, however, still survives. He is not a church member nor a member of any Fraternal Order, but always votes the Democratic ticket.

trade. His wife was Esther May, who was born 182 2 and died about 1892. They had nine children, seven of whom still survive. Mr. Stone seems to have been a universal mechanical genius. He was chief engineer of the iron furnace at Tower Hill, having a daily output of 60 tons. He also built mills and run brick plants. He is an Adventist in faith.

Abraham Kblley

Abraham Kelley, son of Joseph Kelley and Malinda (Shadowin) Kelley, was horn where Marion now stands February 2 7, 1832. The eller Kelley came here in 1830 and died 10 years later. The widow survived until April 18, 18 79, dying at the age of 66 years, 10 months and 2 7 days.

Abraham was married March 13, 1S52, to Miss Elizabeth Hartwell, the sister of the late Joseph Hartwell and Dow Hartwell, the present States Attorney. They had eleven children, all of whom lived to have families of their own except one, which died in infancy. The young chickens having flown the nest, the old birds sit brooding alone once more.

Mr. Kelley enlisted during the war, but like all the rest of the members of the famous 12 8th 111., had but a short military experience. In his case, however, we find him in the hospital at Mound City after fourteen months' experience in camp, from which he received an honorable discharge and is still drawing a pension. He is a Master Mason, a Democrat in politics and has been a member of the Missionary Baptist church for 3 5 years.

Was born in Wayne County, Ky., in 1822, and came to Johnson Co., Illinois, in 1839. He first settled in Marion in IS 89, where he has resided ever since. His father was Reuben Stone, who was a hatter by

Was born near Washington, Davies Co., Indiana, March 14. 1833. He is a son of Samuel Aikman and came with his parents to Edgar Co., 111., in 1835. and to Marion in 1837. His father invested his money in Marion real estate until he owned a strip one-half mile wide by a mile and a half long, lying along the present line of the Chicago ani Eastern Illinois Railroad, which he bought of the Government at $1.25 an acre.

The discovery of gold in California was the foundation of his fortune, as of thousands of others. The story is an old one, but loses nothing of interest in the telling. Old Gen. Sutter, at that time a resident of Sacramento Valley, California, employed James W. Marshall, a millright from New Jersey, to build a saw mill for him on the south fork of the Sacramento, up in the mountains of Eldorado County, about 4 5 miles from Sacramento, where the city of Colonia now stands. They dug a ditch for the tail race and turned in the water to flush it, but not having water enough, afterwards shut it oft to dig it deeper. O-i Ining so they found the bottom covered with gold. Marshall had a lot of Mexicans helping him, and their exclamations of "Ora!" "Ora!" soon gave him to understand the character of the yellow pebbles and sand covering the bottom of the trench. They gathered up their pockets full and Marshall hastened back to Gen. Sutter with information which put an end to their mill-building, but soon transformed the whole country as if by magic. Marshall brought to St. Louis and put into the bank there $200,000 very shortly after, and not less than 20i» gold-hunters went from this county alone. This was in 1849, but Aikman did not go until 1854. He and James M. Mc- Coy went together by way of New Orleans and the Isthmus of Panama and began operations about six miles from the Oregon line.

He was married February 2 4, 1859, to Miss Elizabeth R. Woodward, and in 1872, thirteen years later, built the brick house where he still resides. The bricks were made on his own land and were moulded by Shannon Holland, now president of the First National bank of Marion. They made and burned 200,- 000. used 100,000 and sold the rest for $8.00 a thousand.

This was among the first of his builiing operations, but since then he has been interested in the erection of a good many buildings. He seems to have had a natural penchant for building, and helped carry brick and mortar to build the first brick building put up in Marion. It was the Western Exchange Hotel, and stood where the Denison block now stands. The workmen got 75 cents a day for this work and gave Willis 2 5 cents a day occasionally to help. He was then but a boy, and 25 cents was a fortune. Possibly those goo' old days of hard work and low wages were happier than the present, when the same sort of work commands three or four dollars a day, but it will be a job to persuade the union brick-layers of the fact or get them to return to the paradise they have forsaken.

Mr. Aikman's natural tendency to "thrift," as the New Englander expresses it, may be illustrated by his success as a laborer on the Illinois Central Railway, just below Carbondale. In 1853 he got employment on the new line then being built, paid his board by keeping the books for the contractor evenings, loaned small sums of money to the workmen occasionally and in various extra Jobs added to his earnings, and from the first of April till about Christmas saved up $700, with which he paid his way to California.

Mr. Aikman is the father of eight children, four of whom are living. They are two sons, Dudley and Samuel, who reside at Marion, LiZzie. an unmarried daughter living with her parents, and Annie, who is a companion of the daughter of John D. Rockefeller, and resides at Beverly Farm, Massachusetts.

Samuel K. Casey

The subject of this sketch is the son of Jesse M. and Cynthia Casey, and was born on a farm four miles north of Marion. Illinois. March 6, 1S65. He lived on the farm upon which he was born until January t, 1895. when he went to Marion and took charge of the Egyptian Press, a weekly Democratic paper, which he has edited ever since, and with Jas. H. Felts founded the Marion Evening Post, a Democratic laily paper and one of the best daily papers in the south end of the State, which Is published from the same office as the Press.

On February 16, 1887. Mr. Casey was wedded to Miss Annie B. Stilley. of Williamson County, who departed this life in February, 1892, leaving a daughter, Laura B. Casey, who still survives her.

Laura B. Casey

Daughter of Samuel K. and Annie B. Casey. She was born February 4, ISSS. and being left without a mamma at the age of four years, she lived with her grandpa Casey and Aunt Washie Oliver until she was old enough to attend the Marion public schools, where she graduated from the grammar department in 1903 and entered the high school.

Annie B. Casey

Wife of Samuel K. Casey, was born February 14. IS 63. married February 16, 1SS7. and died February 23, 1892. She, with her husband, was baptized into the Christian Church at Lake Creek in 1887.

Eugene F. Bones

Eugene F. Bones, managing editor of the Marion Evening Post, is a native of Williamson County. At the age of 14 years he commenced writing for newspapers, his first work having been for Marion and Creal Springs papers, and at the age of IS was a contributor to the Detroit Free Press.

Having chosen newspaper work for his occupation at an early age. he gave special attention to the school branches which were calculated to fit him for the work, and the manner in which he handles news matter today shows that he learned well that which he early anticipated would be required to make him a capable newspaper man.

He became a regular writer for the Egyptian Press at Marion in 1S94, and IS 99 became a member of the firm Casey & Bones, editors and publishers of the Press. In 1900 he went west and spent four years in editorial work on metropolitan papers, which greatly broadened his knowledge of the business.

He returned and accepted his present position in January, this year, and the Post has shown great improvement under his management. He is an all round newspaper man, being an able editorial writer and paragraphfer. a capable news gatherer and compositor, an art printer and a successful solicitor.

In 1896 he was married to Miss Mabel Tate, a member of one of the best families of Thompsonville, 111., whose sudden and unexpected death in Xovember. 1903. broke up his happy home in Los Angeles. Cal., causing him to return to his old home to find a haven for his three sons, aged 6, 4 and 2 years respectively.

Malcom Argyle Felts

spent on the old homestead, where he was reared by a man of steady habits in the most favorable surroundings, conducive to a life of sobriety and 'irtue. Twenty years of his life were spent in this close communion with nature and nature's God, and he could not if he would, avoid acquiring ( possibly we ought to say preserving) those mental and moral characteristics which go to form the greatest and purest of men.

With such a school the mere matter of acquiring a knowledge of letters is of minor importance. Yet he secured the rudiments of a common school education and in 1896 and '9 7 attended the college at Creal Springs. He began teaching in 1S90. and taught four terms in Williamson County and three in Johnson County. He had bought a half interest in the Johnson City Progress of his brother James prior to his expe"ience as a teacher, but afterwards sold and came to Marion and took a position as reporter on the Evening Post. He lately resigned, however, and is now engaged in handling agricultural implements with his brother James. He is a member of the Missionary Baptist church, though formerly connected

Was born February 1st, 1866, in Williamson County. 111. He is a son of M. V. Felts, the veteran horticulturist and apple man of Southern Illinois. Reared on the homestead farm about five miles north of Marion, he took the usual routine of our country schools, ending with a term at the Crab Orchard Academy and one at Ewing College.

In 189S he bought a half interest in the Johnson City Progress, and entered the newspaper ranks, with R. N. Jones as his partner. Three years later he sold out and joined forces with S. K. Casey, in the Egyptian Press at Marion, where he still remains.

He is an elder of the First Missionary Baptist church of Marion, and the Clerk. He is also a member of the Williamson County Baptist Missionary Association. He takes little interest in politics, but votes the Democratic ticket, and is now running for Clerk of the Circuit Court. His principal interest in life centers in the christian religion and church, of which he is an earnest, active and useful member.

Oliver J. Page

father dying when he was an infant, he lived with his widowed mother in Crawford County until he became a man. He began teaching in the schools of Crawford County when twenty years old. Two years were spent teaching in the rural schools, and the third year he became principal of the High School of Hutsonville, Crawford County. After a year's rest he taught one year in Eureka College, Eureka, Illinois. From Eureka he was called to take charge of the Christian church at Metropolis, Illinois, which position he retained for three years. During the last year of his pastorate he served in a double capacity, being also principal of the Metropolis High School. The year following, he was promoted to the position of superintendent of the city schools of Metropolis and directed a corps of seventeen teachers. He was re-elected the next year, but he resigned to become the editor and publisher of the Massac Journal Republican, which he sold after about three years' management and bought the Leader at Marion. After two and a half years' management of this paper, he sold out. to Mitchell and Roberts.

In 1900 the histor^ of Massac County appeared, of which he was the editor, publisher and principal author. The work was mainly intended to give the history of Fort Massac, and is a very creditable production. As a matter of history, the old fort has since been changed into a National Park and is now under the supervision of the Daughters of the Revolution. While editing the Metropolis Journal, he was elected to the 41st General Assembly of Illinois, from the 51st Senatorial District, and was the author of several very important pieces of legislation. He Introduced the resolution of and report upon the condition of the old Lincoln Monument, then going to ruin. He was made chairman of the committee which passed upon it, and drafted, introduced and secured the passage of the bill appropriating $100,000 with it was rebuilt. In 1900 he was elected clerk of the Supreme Court of the Southern Illinois District of Illinois to nil a vacancy, and served for two years. He was the first and last and only Republican ever elected to that office. In the political campaigns of 1900 and 1902, he was in the field continuously, under the direction of the Republican State Central committee, and in each campaign was called in for a week's service in Cook County. Illinois, where from the same platform with the late lamented Mark Hanna, he addressed an audience of 15,000 voters.

On the 17th day of October, 1904. Mr. Page leased the Leader Office of the Leader Printing and Publishing Company, for two years, Mr. Arthur Roberts retiring. On the 5Wi of November he purchased the plant and good-will of the Record Office of Mr. J. P. Copeland, and discontinuei publishing the Record. Two days later he issued the first number of the "Daily Non-Partisan." which at two weeks old commanded a city circulation of 400.

He was married May S. 1.S91. to Miss Linnie D. Seeders, a teacher in Crawford County. Of this union three children have been born: Paul, Heber and Bourke. who fill their beautiful home on South Market street with sunshine. Mr. Page belongs to Fellowship Lodge No. S9. A. F. and A. M.. Monitor Lodge No. 236 K. of P.. and Lodge No. SCO of the Elks. He also belongs to the Woodmen.

brought about in the office force of this paper, occasioned by a prolonged spell of sickness of S. K. Casey, a former chief. Mr. Casey has resigned all active participation in its affairs and leased his interest to E. F. Bones, N. VanLinder and J. H. Felts, who now run it under the name and style of The Felts & Linder Publishing Co. Mr. Bones becomes editor in chief of both the Press and Post, Mr. Linder takes charge of the pres.s-room and Mr. Felts of the office. The combination is a strong one, and will prosper.

Arthur Roberts The Egyptian Press

The subject of this sketch is a native of this County, and one of its most promising young men. He was born at Corinth, in Northern Precinct. July 26th, 1S72. His early life was spent on his father's farm, with such advantages for schooling as a farmer boy usually secures, until about 17 years old. when he entered the Illinois Normal University at Carbondale. At this excellent institution he continued his studies for eight years, not graduating until June. 1897. His stu lies, however, were not continuous, but alternated with intervals of teaching, in which he had the unrivaled advantage of putting the knowledge he acquired to immediate use, thus acquiring the experience and skill as a teacher, lecturer and editor, for which he has already become famous. His reputation as a teacher having preceded him to Pope County, he took a position in the city schools of Golconda, and for three successive years was elected Superintendent. Before the close of his third term, however, he resigned and went into the Insurance and Loan business, in Dubuque, Iowa. His skill and reputation as a teacher, however, forbade his burying his native talent in an insurance office, and after a few inonths at Dubuque, he was invited by the Slayton Lyceum Bureau, of Chicago, to go on the platform in the interest of the new and marvelous discovery of Liquid Air. He accepted the offer, and spent seven months in the public laboratory of that city and the laboratory and library of the great Chicago University in ascertaining the chemical and physical properties and laws of the liquifaetion of gases, and incidentally collecting the data and preparing the subject matter of the Droposed lecture.

The result was one of the most thorough, valuable and successful lectures ever delivered on scientific subjects in the country, and which has given him an enviable reputation as a lecturer, and an authority on the subject of which he treats. Entering the field in 1900. he filled

312 engagements in all the principal cities of 38 states, including 23 colleges and universities. He was but little more than a year covering this field, covering five and a fourth lectures a week. At its conclusion he entered into a contract with the same Bureau to deliver the lecture on the Atlantic Coast, Canada and the Islands of the Sea. A sudden and dangerous sickness of his only child. Arthur, however, compelled him to cancel the engagement, and he hurried back to Golconda.

Finding it impossible to resume the lecture platform at any certain date, he once more accepted the superintendency of the Golconda city schools, and was again re-elected for three successive terms. As before, he resigned at the beginning of his third term, and purchasing the Marion Leader of O. J. Page, moved his family to Marion and entered upon the editorial work, in which he is still engaged. In this field also he has shown talent of no mean order, building up his paper from the start and increasing its subscription from 1400 to 1700 copies weekly since it came under his control.

In May, of the present year, he organized a company which took the name and style of The Leader Printing and Publishing Company. of which he was elected editor and manager, with a capital of $8,000. It took control on the first of June of the present year. The improvement of its jobbing department is particularly noticeable, as they have purchased some new presses and machinery, and new type, and they are making a specialty of fine highgrade printing.

The following gentlemen compose the list of stockholders and officers of the company: John H. Duncan, president; O. H. Burnett, vice president- L. C. Campbell, secretary and treasurer; Arthur Roberts, editor and publisher; T. M. Mitchell. O. J. Page Llovd C. Campbell. J. Throgmorton, John M. Dodi, .T. B. Bundy. F. T. Joyner. Leonard Culp. \V T Felts, stockholders.

His marriage to Miss Delia Malone, daughter of L. A. M^lone^ of Corinth, took place December 24th, 18 95 Two children have been the fruit of this union, Arthur Roberts. Jr.. and Stewart.

Samuel Dunaway

Samuel was educated in the public schools of Marion, and graduated from the High School in the Class of 1895. He took a thorough business training in the Gem City Business College at Quincy. Illinois, from which he graduated in 1899, with the degrees of Commercial Law and also of accounts. He first took a position as assistant bookkeeper for the Fort Dearborn National Bank, under Mr. L. A. Goddard. now its president, and after several years' service was placed in charge of the books of the Frisco System at Danville, where he still remains.

He was married in March. 1899, to Miss Mattie Oakley, of Marion. Mr. Dunaway's mother is a member of the First Baptist church and also belongs to Leroy A. Chapter of the Eastern Star, No. 350. His sisters are Daisy. Amelia and Anna Louisa.

Mrs. A. C. Reynolds

This lady was born in Robinson County, Tennessee, September 12, 1841. Her parents were Thomas N. Barham and Elizabeth Perry, both natives of Kentucky, who came to Marion in 1856, bringing Mrs. Reynolds, then only 15, with them, and where Judge Barham died in 18 67. She was married to John H. Reynolds March 26th, 1859, and has been a resident of the place ever since. He was born in Warren Co., Tennessee. August 24, 1833. and came to Marion in 1858. He was a cabinet maker by trade, and worked at the business for ten years. He served as a Justice of the Peace for sixteen years continuously until his ''eath, which occurred September 8. 1891. They had twelve children, six girls and six boys, of whom seven survive. She is a member of the Missionary Baptist church, and has always been an active worker in the cause.

William M. Reid

The subject of this sketch was born January 2 8th. 1836. near Lexington. Ky.. and was one of a family of eleven children of Colonel Reid. who moved to Randolph Co., Mo., in the fall of 1836. He was compelled by circumstances, as well as by a spirit of independence and adventure, to look out for himself at the early age of sixteen, and going to Davenport. Iowa, learned the trade of a carpenter, which he followed for twelve years. After working for the government for a while in St. Louis and Columbus, Ky.. he returned to Davenport and enlisted in the 45th Iowa Inft., Co

D., and served with credit in many a hard-fought battle in the West -ill the close of the war. After being mustered out, he came to Carbondale, Jackson Co., with a brother, N. G. Reid, where they raised cotton for a couple of years.

His marriage to Miss Bethany J. Spiller took place at Spillertown February 17th, 1868, and he is the proud father of nine living children, five sons and four daughters. Four of the five sons are physicians and one is studying law in Denver, Colorado. Although (perhaps because) he has always suffered the disadvantage of a limited education, incident to a rearing in a new country, he has always been foremost and active in school matters, and gave to all his children a fine education.

In politics he is a Democrat, in Fraternal matters a Master Mason of the Blue Lodge and for 4 0 years a consistant member of the Christian church.

James A. Craine

Was born at Murphysboro, 111., October 17, 1874. His father, John E. Craine, was a "Pennsylvania Dutchman," but came to Jackson County soon after the war and later settled in Creal Springs, before the town was heard of. He married the only sister of W. F. Cody - Buffalo Bill - and it was from his home the famous scout began his career. He was a carpenter and builder by trade, and taught his son the business. He died at Murphysboro about 1900. at the age of 73.

James began to help his father at the trade very early in life, and his general education was necessarily limited. As he grew older, however, he developed remarkable skill both in designing and building, and when only 17 drew full pay as a stair builder and interior finisher in the city of St. Louis. In 1893. at the age of 19, he attended the Academy of Architecture and Building in St. Louis, from which he graduated in 1894. The excellent training he received from his father enabled him to make rapid progress, and he spent but a year in mastering a four years" course. After he left college he spent some time working with his brothers at Murphysboro, and to his knowledge of architecture added mining and civil engineering. This is his field, and he has been assiduously devoted to it since he left college. He was the originator of the Craine Construction Company, which has erected many of the most important buildings in Southern Illinois. He has recently found it necessary, however, to discontinue it in order to devote himself more fully to his growing business as architect and civil and mining engineering.

He is the present city engineer of the City of Marion. He is a promoter of the Gas and Sewerage Systems of Marion and is giving it all necessary attention. The fine city map which accompanies this volume was drawn by him in the interest of the Gas and Sewerage Systems, and not at all as a Real Estate map. It, however, answers the purpose of both.

Bernard S. Craine

The subect of this sketch was the son of J. E. Craine, a native of Pennsylvania, and Catharine Parker Craine, who was born in Bowling Green, Kentucky. He was born at Mt. Erie, Wayne County. Illinois, June 24, 1868, and while an infant came with his parents to Murphysboro, Jackson County. His father was a practical architect and builder, and raised an older son. J. E. Craine, to the business of Civil and Mining Engineering.

Upon leaving school the subject of this sketch went to work for his brother, and through him received a thorough practical training in his profession. This is the best school in the world, and he had the assistance and special training of one of the very best of teachers, for Mr. J. E. Craine is widely known as an expert in his line, and is at present President and General Manager of the Chicago and Carterville Coal Company, which is recognized in the profession as the model coal mine of the country. That his brother had the benefit of five years' training under such a teacher is a sufllcient explanation of the high position in his chosen profession he has since been able to attain.

Since Mr. Craine graduated from his brother's practical school, he has for fifteen years been actively engaged in every branch of work belonging to his profession, and has achieved distinction in all.

For the last two years he has been the general superintendent of the great coal mining works of the Southern Illinois Coal Mining and Washing Company at Marion, and during that period was made Chief Engineer of the whole system, which position he still holds and discharges its high responsibilities and duties with credit to himself and complete satisfaction to his employers.

Was born in Williamson County September 20. 1S61. He was reared on a farm and received his education in the common school. His father was T. J. Cline, who also followed farming, and died in 1897. His mother's name was C. J. Asher, who still survives.

Mr. Cline entered the grocery trade in .Tuly. 1S7S, and has followed the business ever since. He was one of the original promoters, organizers and stockholders of the Marion Pressed Brick Company, and is now its president.

He and his wife have been active members of the M. E. Church South for 15 years. He and his brother. J. M. Cline, selected the site of the present beautiful church building on South Market street, bought the grouni and helped erect the structure. He is one of the stewards of the organization and its treasurer.

He is a Democrat politically, but too busy a man to be active in politics, although he was for two years the City Treasurer, and is a member of the Merchants' Association of Marion.

His wife was Florence McCown, daughter of the late Major W. D. and his wife, Celia McCown. They were married February S, 1874, and have had six children, three of whom are living. Their names in the order of their births are Albert Elmose, Earl D. and Lawrence. The dead are a daughter, who died in infancy; Otto, who died at the age of one year, and Minnie Ethel, at three and a half years. Earl is following the grocery business with his father.

Is a native of Mayfield. Graves Co., Ky., where he first saw the light March 10, 1861. His father, William P. Nance, was a minister in the M. E. church South, and came to Jackson County, 111., in 1S67. In 18 69 he moved to Williamson County, where he died in 1871. The wife, whose maiden name was Martha A. Eaker. died in 1901.

Mr. Nance was general manager of the Marion Electric Light plant for nine years, from 1893 to 1901, when he entered the grocery trade on North Market street, which he still runs. His wife was Mary J. Broad, daughter of William Broad. They were married October 5. 1S81. and have had seven children, of whom six are living. They are William C, George H., Ed F., Valderair B., who died in 1891; Clarence A., Warder P. and Robert D.

Mr. Nance served in the state militia for eleven years, reaching the rank of Lieutenant. His term expired in 1S92. He and his wife have been members of the M. E. church South for 2 5 years.

George H. Goodall

This most active, enterprising and deservedly popular business man of Marion, began life in this city November 5, 1860. His whole career so far has been pursued here or radiated from this city as its center. His schoolinj? is such only as our excellent cii.v school." furnished, without collegiate trimmings. In the spring of 1S82 he entered the mercantile ranks and followed the business for about 16 years. In the fall of 1S97 he began to build the new Goodall Hotel, which was finished two jear.-? iatei. In '95 he became interested in the hardwood lumber business, in which he has been engaged ever since. He is a member of the Williamson County Agriculrural Association, Marion Mercantile Ass-Dciation, Williamson Co'inty Savings Bank and is prominent :ind active in all of them.

He is Republican in i)olitiC5, a K. P. and a member of the Christian church. His wife was, .4.1thsa Hundley, who is the leader of I 'le choir of the Christian church, and as active in her sphere as her husband is in his. They were married August 16. 1882. and have had three children, William Robert, who died in '89, and Grace and Lille, both of whom are at the Monticello school.

Born September 11, 1831. in Clairsville, Belmont County, Ohio. When six months old his parents moved to Morristown, Ohio, where he was reared and educated. His father was John Erwan. who followed the trade of a fuller and carder, and died in the Autumn of 1876 at the advanced age of 80. His mother was Sarah Garner, who died the previous Spring at about the same age. When about 18 years old Mr. Erwan learned the tailor's trade, at which he worked for about 17 years.

When the Civil War broke out he enlisted in the 50th Ohio Vol. Inf.. Co. F., Colonel Silas A. Strickland commanding. He was first under fire at the battle of Perryville, Ky.. and was in most of the battles leading up to and including the seige of Atlanta. When Sherman began his famous march "from Atlanta to the Sea" his regiment was turned back.

and marching to Nashville under Pap Thomas, drove Hood out of Tennessee. When the war closed he was mustered out, in July 1865. He went through the whole struggle without a scratch or a day in the hospital, and at its close joined his wife at Muncie, Ind. The young couple lived there two years, then returned to Ohio and remained till March, 1871, when he moved to Marion, where he has remained till the present time.

He was married three times. His first wife was Mary Ann Gray, to whom he was united March 4, 1854. She died August 19, 1881. after giving birth to four children, two of whom are now living. His son, Francis E. Erwan, lives in St. Louis and his daughter married E. B. Watson, the present mayor of Carterville. His second marriage took place November 15, 18 85, to Mrs. Nancy Dunaway, who died the following March, 1886. For the third time he was married June 19, 1896, to Mrs. Anna L. Lillian. He is a Republican in politics and has been a member of the M. E. church for about nine years.

The subject of this sketch is a native of Gallatin County, Illinois, where he was born April 23, 1831. His parents were natives of Virginia, from where they moved to Kentucky and later to Johnson County, Illinois. Still later they settled in Gallatin County. The mother, whose maiden name was Anna McGowen, died at the age of 45, seventy-one years ago. The father married the second time, and lived to the age of 65. The subeet of this sketch was the youngest of twelve children, all of whom are dead but two brothers. Lewis is now 7 5 years old an! lives ten miles south of Marion, and another brother. Samuel, lives, at the age of 96, in Eldorado. Saline County. Illinois. He was in the Blackhawk War and still draws a pension.

After the death of his mother. Mr. Westbrook was thrown on his own resources at the tender age of 11 years and 6 months, and went to work for his elder brother on a farm in Saline County, following the plow until 26 years old. He then came to Marion, in January, 1857, nnd the following July, renting a building of Samuel Dunaway. on the corner where Mr. Eb. Hearn is now selling groceries, opened a general store. At that time there were but three dealers in the place, although the town had been located about 18 veirs. They were Goodall & Pulley, J. T. Goddard and Joseph Huffstutter. The latter had a little store in the corner of the old Western Exchange Hotel, which then oc- cupied the place where the Denison block now stands. He rented of Dtinaway for two years and then bought the corner he now occupies. A small frame building stood there at the time, which Mr. Westbrook bought and where he sold goods until it burned in IS 7 6. He at once rebuilt of frame and did business there till 1899, when he had it moved to where it still stands as shown in the halftone. He then built two stories in a substantial manner of brick, which he finished in 1900, and still occupies as a dry goods house. It is called the New York store, and stands on the south side of the square, corner of South Market St., as shown in the halftone of the bird's eye view of the town. The name and style of the company is F. M. Westbrook and Company, with his son, Willis F. Westbrook, as the company.

Mr. Westbrook was married January 26, 1S55, to Paulina J. Lafferty, by whom he has had three children: James W. Westbrook, in business in Oklahoma City. Oklahoma: Willis F. Westbrook, his partner in Marion, and a daughter, Mrs. Daisy B. Mitchell, the wife of C. E. Mitchell, a merchant of Oklahoma City.

In IS SO Mr. Westbrook built the handsome residence where he lives, embowered in handsome sugar maple trees, almost too dense to get a snap shot for the Souvenir book. It stands on the southeast corner of Marion and Buchanan streets, and is one of the best in town.

Wm. Bundy was born in Tennessee April 2, 1846. His father, Dr. Samuel H. Bundy, was a prominent physician and surgeon for more than 50 years. He moved from Tennessee with his family to Williamson County in 1852, and for more than half a century was one of its most successful practitioners. ,He served in the Union army for four years as surgeon of the 9th 111. Vol., was mustered out at Louisville, Ky., in 1865, and resumed the practice of his profession here. He died November 21. 1899. at the age of 77.

William attendel the public schools until 1S65, when he had the benefit of President Clark Braden's instruction in the Southern Illinois College until it was merged into the Southern Illinois Normal School in 1S71. Being much attached to Prof. Braden he refused to enter the Normal and took a school of his own. From this time on. for ten years, four of which were spent in Marion schools, he followed teaching as a profession. After this he bought land and farmed for a while, but having been educated by his father for a physician, farming did not suit him, and he soon dropped it and went into the drug business with C. H. Dennison, president of Marion State Savings Bank and Mayor of the city. After two years Denison sold out his interest to W. S. Washburn, who in turn sold to Mr. Bundy.

In 1869 he took a hand in politics for a short time, and served one term as County Surveyor. Later he was appointed deputy sheriff by James H. Duncan, and served from '82 to '86. In the fall of 'S6 he was elected to the legislature and served two years. He always took an active interest in school matters, and served on the board of directors from to . After the change he was elected president of the Board of Education for the City of Marion and was re-elected for a second term. He was Mayor of the city one term, in 1891, and did good work, getting the Electric Belt Line Railway in operation. As secretary of the Williamson County Agricultural Board, he has been for more than 2 0 years the moving spirit of that organization. He served for five years as Director before accepting the secretaryship, which he has held continuously ever since, except one year.

There is no doubt that the efficient character of that society and its excellent condition financially, and in every way is largely due to his able and intelligent assistance of the public-spirited gentlemen who have had it in hanl.

Mr. Bundy has been twice married. The first time, in 1870, to Miss Belle Warder, who died June 29th, 1883, leaving two children. Mamie and Ben. His second marriage took place April 9, 1SS5, to Miss Alice Bevard. of Cartevville. 111. They reside in the fine residence on South Market St.. shown in the halftone. He is a member of the Gethsemane Commandery, No. 41. Knights Templar. Marion Chapter No. 100. R. A. M.. Fellowship Lodge No. 89 A. F. & A. M.. Williamson Lodge No. 392, I. O. O. F.. and Marion Loige No. 800. Benevolent Order of Elks.

Hogan Willeford

The subject of this sketch is a native of Marion, where he was born June 11th, 1872. His father was engaged in the drug business here for some time, but is at present postmaster at Oluskee. Oklahoma. His mother was Amanda M. Spiller. After a common school education. Mr. Willeford entered the employ of John Cline in 1S91. and took up the profession of druggist. He was two years with Cline and then spent two years in Washington, Ind. After spending six years in Maiden, Mo., he went to Muscogee, Indian Territory, for one year. In July, 1901, we find him once more in Marion, and in partnership with his brother-in-law, F. L. Morrison, in the bottling business. Mr. Morrison had been in the same business in Memphis and elsewhere, and Mr. Willeford was an expert druggist, so that the combination was a success from the start. They engaged in the manufacture of all kinds of soft drinks and mineral waters, but make a specialty of "Iron Brew, the Ideal American Tonic," a soft drink of exceptional value for its medicinal properties. The first year's output was one hundred cases daily, and its present capacity is three hundred cases. They are now building new works on the same street, which will greatly increase the output.