Atlanta Township (part 3 of 4)

City Organization

All these years the town had been under the control of the village trustees, five in number. The population had increased to more than a thousand- persons, and the advisability of a city government was considered by the citizens. The incorporation act, as a town, was passed by the Legislature, February 24, 1855, and on April 2 the first Board of Trustees was elected. It consisted of the following persons : A. N. Dills, A. K. Martin, "William P. Hunt, "William S. Leonard and Cornelius Lambert. K. T. Gill was chosen president of the board, which met on the 7th, and appointed J. Henry Ball, Clerk; E. H. Dunagan, Constable, and H. Armington, Street Commissioner. This form of government was used until 1869, when a city charter was obtained, on March 8, of that year, and on the 16th the question was submitted to a vote of the people. One hundred and seventy-three votes were cast in favor of a city organization, nineteen against; seven votes were cast against the city charter. This left a majority of 147 votes in favor of the movement. On the 23d of the same month the election for city oflicers was held, at which time a mayor, a city clerk, a city marshal, a treasurer, an attorney, an assessor and collector, one justice, a street commissioner, and a city surveyor were elected.

City Officials

1875 - Mayor, Andrew P. West ; Clerk, B. A. Field ; Marshal, L. C. Lambert ; Street Commissioner, H. Lawrence ; Aldermen : First Ward, J. G. Keise ; Second Ward, Thomas Worthington ; Third Ward, E. D. Kesler, elected at a second election, the vote at the first being a tie.

At the same time the city charter was granted, the school, which had been in the hands of the town authorities, was organized under the State school law, and a Board of Directors, or Inspectors, was elected to take charge of the affairs of the district. This form of management yet prevails, and has done very much toward the present town schools.

Atlanta contains about 1,500 inhabitants. The trade of the town is principally with the surrounding farmers, whom the town people furnish the necessaries of life, and in turn are furnished other equally needed necessaries by this class of citizens. The majority of the business houses are of brick, and in them will be seen excellent stocks of goods. The Illinois Midland Eailroad was completed in the autumn of 1872, and crosses the Chicago & Alton here, giving the town a northern and southern outlet, as well as an eastern and western. Its advantages are certainly of the best, and it only remains for its citizens to improve them to secure one of the best towns in Central Illinois.

Educational Inteeests

The old seminary building was erected early in 1853, when the whole number of houses in town did not exceed twenty. This part of the county was, however, quite populous, and at that time was almost always known as the " Four by Six." It had been obtained from De Witt County, and contains twenty-four sections, four wide and six in length ; hence the name.

A very good school was maintained in the village from its earliest existence. In February, 1856, the Atlanta Seminary was chartered, and a school of higher order immediately opened. This was still in the old frame building, which occupied the most eligible site in town. The first Board of Trustees was Samuel Bevan, Samuel Foster, James Tuttle, A. 0. Kaiikin and R. T. Gill. This board had full power to confer academic degrees, erect buildings, purchase land, appoint teachers, regulate the course of study, etc. It was especially provided that the school should not be made denominational, and if in the opinion of the board its interests could be advanced by converting it into a town school, the board could do so. The stock in the seminary was divided into shares of $20 each, each share being entitled to one vote, and each stockholder liable to a tax of $1 per share to pay debts. The first instructor was Rev. L. Foster. He was succeeded by Messrs. Atkinson and West. In May, 1856, Rev. W. M. Guilford took charge, and an era of prosperity at once began. The four departments were all occupied. The course of instruction was comprehensive and thorough, and for two years the school's progress was constant. In 1858 it was decided by the Board of Trustees that the interest of the town children would be better served if the school was placed immediately under the control and maintainance of the town. S. A. Briggs was chosen principal this year, and had about the same number of assistants heretofore employed. The school was conducted under this management until 1869, when, at the organization of the city government, the school was also organized under the State school law as a graded school. The district was enlarged to include territory one mile each way from town, and a Board of School Directors was elected who assumed entire control of the school. In 1870 the old seminary building was found inadequate for the accommodation of the school population, and measures were taken to erect a larger building. The old seminary was removed to the corner of the lot and used until the new one was completed, when it was taken to the farm of Augustus Reise. The new building is three stories in height above the basement. It contains ten school-rooms, a spacious hall and an office. The building is surmounted by a tasty cupola, in which a large town clock, having four diale, is placed. These can be seen from any portion of the city, and are a great convenience. The strokes of the clock can be distinctly heard in any part of town. This adornment cost $800 - raised by contributions. The contract price of the building was $24,485; to this $500 was afterward added. The entire cost, including the clock and furniture, was $28,500, for which outlay the city of Atlanta has one of the best schools in the county. There are enrolled annually from 350 to 400 pupils. The present School Board consists of Elias Harness, President; J. J. Downey, Clerk, and G. W. Bennett. The corps of instructors includes: O. Brinkerhoff (Superintendent), Miss Montgomery, Mrs. Carle, Miss Bennett, Miss Young, Mr. Spindler, Miss Hardy, Miss Boruff and Miss Dyer.

Religious

27i,6 Baptist Church, of Atlanta, was established in 1830, under the name of the Big Grove Baptist Church, by the Rev. M. Mann and Rev. H. Bowman. There were fourteen members at that time, from whom John Hoblit was chosen Deacon, and Samuel Hoblit, Clerk. Rev. Bowman was called as pastor, remaining with the congregation six or seven years. In 1839 the society built a house of worship in New Castle, and changed the name to the New Castle Baptist Church. They were then under the charge of Rev. J. D. Newel. From this date until 1855 the pastors were Revs. Jonathan Merriam, Joel Bulsey, Lewis Morgan, N. Alwood, H. D. Mason, Z. Hall and A. S. Dennison. About the close of Rev. Dennison's pastorate they sold the church in New Castle and removed their place of worship to Atlanta, and there assumed their present name. Here they erected a house of worship capable of seating 500 persons. In June, 1856, they called the Rev. E. J. Thomas, who had charge of the congregation eleven years. The pastors since have been Revs. Geo. W. Benton, A. M. Hunt, Jeriah D. Cole, D. D., J. B. Hutton, J. W. Primm and William Swinden. The society lost its church by fire in 1872, and then met in the Congregational and Presbyterian churches until the beginning of 1886, when they occupied their new edifice, erected on the old site in 1885, at a cost of $4,500. This has ten memorial windows, of stained glass, each dedicated to the memory of some former prominent member of the society. The church has a permanent endowment of $2,000, contributed in equal sums by Samuel Hoblit and Samuel Bevan. The membership of the society is now ninety-eight. The Deacons are: John A. Hoblit,

Alfred Turner and W. H. Downey; Trustees, Andrew Turner, Alfred Turner, John A. Hoblit, J. Merriam and R. Gr. Bevan. The Sunday-school has a membership of seventy-five, and the following officers: A. L. Hoblit, Superintendent; James Johnson, Secretary and Treasurer. There are ten teachers.

The Methodist Episcopal Church was organized as a class in 1854, in the house of James M. Cantrall. There were twentythree members. The organization was perfected by Revs. Benjamin Bartholow and William McVeigh. James M. Cantrall, H, Maltby, Ezra Kenyon, A. J. Ludlow, A. S. Corthon, and John Pallady were elected trustees. The erection of a house of worship was at once begun, and the edifice was dedicated in 1856 or '57 by Eev. Jonathan Stamper. Since then the following persons have filled the pulpit of this church as pastors: Revs. Benjamin Bartholow, A. Semple, Preston Wood, G. R. S. McElfresh, A. Semple (again), James Shaw, C. D. James, John S. Barger, D. W. English, J. B. Seymour, 0. A. Obenshain, G. W. Bates, J. Miller, J. C. Keller, A. S. McCoy, T. J. N. Simmons, J. T. Fry, G. Cunningham and W. N. Johnson. The society has now about 120 members. The Trustees are: A. JST. Dills, A. S. Corthon, P. R. Marquart, E. "W. Kenyon, H. Rice, W. E. Long and John Wikle. The Sundayschool has an attendance of from eighty to one hundred, under Mrs. Ruch as superintendent.

The Christian Chtvrch was organized in 1855 by Rev. George Minier, with twenty-four members. The next year they erected their present house of worship, the steeple of which, becoming unsafe, was torn down in 1869 and replaced by the present one. Their second pastor was Rev. "W. M. Guilford, whose successors have been Revs. Leroy Skelton, John Lindsey, J. W. Monser, Samuel Lowe, T. T. Holton, R. D. Cotton, J. A. Seaton, R. B. Chaplain, B. O. Aylesworth, S. H. Bundy and L. G. Thompson. The church has now 125 members. The elders are: Andrew Wright, James Shores and J. H. Judy; Deacons, Jefi^rson Howser, J. D. Howes, J. W. Spindler, J. W. Eddy, Joseph Wright and W. L. Jones. W. L. Jones is Clerk and Treasurer. The Sundayschool has a membership of about 125, under the superintendency of Andrew Wright.

The Cumberland Presbyterian Church was organized about 1856; but, the denomination having three or four houses of worship within a few miles of town, no building was erected in Atlanta until 1866. This structure was used by them when they had regular services until January, 1880, when it was leased to the Baptists. They used it until January, 1885, when the 0. P. congregation again resumed its use. The last of November, 1885, it was burned in some unknown manner. The society has rented the Congregational church until the spring of 1886. The church that was burned was completed under the ministry of Eev. Joseph Eoach, who was in charge here for some years. Eev. Mr. Bell afterward preached some time, but, the people being unable to support a regular minister, none was employed after him until *Eev. J. H. Morphis was engaged, April 1, 1885. The society has about forty members. The Elders are: James Adams, "William Eoach, and I. S. Chenoweth; Trustees, S. H. Nolder and James Adams.

The Congregational Church was formed from the Mt. Hope Church, which was organized in 1840. Until 1853 they were served by different pastors, prominent among whom was Eev. S. Spencer, under whose pastorate the membership was greatly increased. In 1853 Eev. S. Foster was called, and that year the place of worship was removed to Atlanta, where they occupied Seminary Hall until the completion of their church, in 1857. Eev. Mr. Drake was pastor here for some time and was succeeded by Eev. Mr. Hubbard, alter whom tbere was an interim of no services. Eeve. Shay and J. E. Barnes then successively filled the pulpit, and in the spring of 1885 the church was closed. There is no immediate prospect of better times, as the society is small, numbering but about twenty members. The church building is at present occupied by the Cumberland Presbyterians.

The Presbyterian Church has been organized many years, but, 7)rior to 1868, worshiped in a hall rented for that purpose. That year they completed their house of worship, a comfortable brick structure, which, unfortunately, has cracked and is considered unsafe. The only two regular pastors the society has had were Eev. Crissman and Eev. A. Bartholomew. The future of the society is uncertain, but it is thought the church will be repaired, with a view to monthly services.

The Catholics of this place and vicinity erected a church in 1881, at a cost of $1,200, and on the third Sunday of each month services are held by Eev. Charles M. Eeynolds, who lives in Elkhart. Occasional services have been held for thirty years.

Miscellaneous Oeganizations

ber 2, 1855, with Richard T. Gill as "Worthy Master, Eobert H. Killen as Senior Warden, and George W. Eowell as Junior Warden. There were thirty-three charter members. The present officers are: J. G. Bourne, Worthy Master; R. W. Folts, Senior Warden; 0. Brinkerhoff, Junior Warden; S. H. Fields, Jr., Secretary; S. H. Fields, Treasurer; A. E. Church, Senior Deacon; V. Hamilton, Junior Deacon; R. Bright and Sylvester Hoblit, Stewards; Henry Friedman, Tyler. The lodge has thirty members, and meets the first and third Mondays in each month.

Atlanta Chapter, No. 188, R. A. M., was organized under dispensation, April 19, 1882. Its charter is dated October 27, 1882, and was given to W. T. Kirk, George F. Bennett, A. E. Church, J. G. Bourne, A. W. Chenoweth, Julius W. Regents, John S. Perriton,S. H. Fields, A. J. Ludlam, William Daoenbaum, Dennis Kenyon, C. C. Aldrich and S. I. Leach. The present officers of the chapter are: A. E. Church, High Priest; George F. Bennett, K. ; S. H. Fields, S.; J. G. Bourne, Secretary; A. W. Chenoweth, C. H.; S. H. Fields, Jr., P. S.; W. H. Christie, R. A. C; A. J. Ludlam, M. 3d v.; J. M, Burkholder, M. 2d V. ; Yaden Hamilton, M. 1st Y. ; W. T. Crain, Tyler. The membership of the chapter, seventeen. It meets the first and third Tuesdays of each month.

Logan Lodge, No. 176, /. 0. 0. F., was chartered October 12, 1855^ the following being the first members: Benj. F. Dalzell, Charles B. Vanhorn, Francis M.Tuttle, Jeff'erson L. Dugger, John M. Gill, A. N. Dills, James P. Mead, William B. Vanhorn, James M. Fisher, Isaac V. Gray, Lewis Eishbury and Andrew Downey. The present officers are: Jesse IS'ewman, Jr., Noble Grand; G. W. Hunu, Vice-Grand; W. H. Mason, Secretary; Sylvester Hoblit, Treasurer. The membership of the lodge is about ninety. Meetings are held on Wednesday evenings. The lodge is in a very sound condition financially, having over $1,800 in the treasury, and owning ninety-four shares iu the Union Hall Association. These shares cost $25 each, but are now worth $35 to $40.

Central Lodge, No. Ill, A. 0. U. W., was organized March 28, 1878, with the following first officers: J. S. Cole, Past Master Workman; S. B. James, Master Workman; A. J. McOlain, F. ; Alfred Turner, 0.; ,W. H. Mason, Recorder; C. H. Turner, Financier; A. J. Reise, Recei\er; M. L. Higgins, G.; W. H. McGahan, I. W. ; George Hoerr, O. W. The present officers are: A. P. West, P. M. W.; F. J. Fields, M. W.; J. T. Lambert, F.; John Schneider, 0.; A. J. Randolph, Recorder; J. S. Cole, Receiver;

Atlanta Lodge, No. 108, /. O.K. A., was organized January 13, 1881, with sixty-six members. The present oflBcers are: M. L. H iggins, President; Joseph Sumners, Yice- President; John W. Spindler, Secretary; Wesley Long, Treasurer. The lodge has about twenty nmembers, and its regular time of meeting is every Saturday night.

Atlanta Post, No. 326, G. A. R., was mustered August 27, 1883, with thirty-nine members. The present oflBcers are: F. J. Fields, Commander; Charles A. Mayers, Senior Yice-Oommander; Joseph Sumners, Junior Yice-Oommander; John A. Wikle, Chaplain; Charles G. Eeise, Quartermaster; Henry Nicodemus, Surgeon; John R Nicholson, Officer of the Day; James BE. Harkreader, Officer of the Guard. The post has sixty-four members, and meets every Monday night at I. O. M. A. Hall.

I%e Atlanta Anti-Horsethief Society was organized in 1855, and reorganized March 27, 1884. The Directors are: S. H. Fields, President; W. B. Stroud, Jr., Yice-President; Sylvester Hoblit, Secretary and Treasurer; H. C. Montgomery and A. S. Corthon. A. Larisonis Captain, and John P. Hieronymus, Lieutenant. The society is designed to protect the members against all kinds of thieving, but particularly horsestealing. The captain has full discretion in each case where his services are asked. The expenses are paid by assessments. The last case of horse-stealing was in 1875, and in the thirty years the society has been in existence only two horses were ever lost by members that were not recovered.

is free to all residents. About the year 1872 various funds arising from concerts and other public exercises were set aside for the purchase of books for a public library. The library so formed was kept in Mr. Bean's store, and augmented from the same source until 1875, when the Library Association was formed under the State law. The books were removed to the Argus office, and the editor, George L. Shoals, made librarian. In the summer of 1881 a room was fitted up in the Town Hall, which has been since occupied. John W. Spindler has been librarian since the removal. The library is open three hours every Saturday afternoon. There are

Mill

The three-story brick mill of Bennett & Each is about twenty years old, and has a capacity of about fifty barrels a day. Corn meal, grist and hominy are manufactured, and shipped principally to the South.

Press Professional Men

Julius^. Arnold, merchant of Atlanta, is a native of Illinois, He was born in McLean County, in January, 1856, and is a son of Obediah and Rosannah (Kenyon) Arnold, the father being now deceased. When a boy he came with his parents to Atlanta, Logan County, where he received a high-school education. At the age of eighteen years he began clerking for the mercantile firm of Randolph & Brother, with whom he remained four years, after which he was employed as a clerk for W. S. Dunham & Son. In 1883 he engaged in business for himself, which he has since successfully followed. September 26, 1878, he was married to Lola Bail, a daughter of Gibson and Melinda Bail, formerly residents of Atlanta, but now of Dakota. They have one daughter - Bessie, born October 2, 1879.

Obediah Arnold, deceased, was a native of Rhode Island, where he was born in July, 1812, and there was reared to manhood. He was married about the year 1837 to Rosannah Kenyon, who was born in Connecticut, March 2, 1819, a daughter of John and Susanna

Kenyon. Four of the seven children are yet living - Eugene C, Julius E., Emily E. and Ida F. In 1852 Mr. Arnold removed with his wife and two children to McLean County, Illinois, residing there till 1871. He then moved his family to Atlanta, Logan County, where he died soon after his arrival, his death occurring in March, 1871. He was a kind and affectionate husband and father, and was held in high esteem by a wide circle of friends and acquaintances. lu politics he was a Republican. His widow has already passed her threescore years, and is still a resident of Atlanta. She is the owner of a half-section of land in McLean County.

James W. Ash^ farmer and stock-raiser of Atlanta Township, was born November 22, 1834, in Gibson County, Indiana, his parents, James and Ruth Ash, being natives of Kentucky and Ohio respectively. In 1852 he came to Logan County with his parents and settled on section 30, Atlanta Township, where his father died in 1856, his mother dying in 1865. To his parents were born eleven children - Lucinda, Paulina (deceased), Ann L., Ruth A., Nancy K., Elizabeth O., Martha M., Emily J., James W., John 11. and Samuel F. James "W., our subject, was married in McLean County, 111., September 20, 1863, to Delilah Summers, a daughter of James M. and Mary Summers, the father being a native of Tennessee and the mother of Indiana. Mr. Summers came to Logan County, Illinois, in 1849, and settled in tiiis township, where his wife died July 26, 1865. Mr. Ash has followed farming through life, and is now the owner of 196 acres of valuable land. He is a member of Logan Lodge, No. 176, I. O. O. F.

Asa C. Barnes, deceased, was born July 2, 1821, at Oran, Onondaga County, New York, where he grew to manhood. March 4, 1847, he married Miss Ann S. Leonard, daughter of David H. and Ann M. Leonard, who were natives of New Jersey and Massachusetts respectively. Shortly after his marriage Mr. Barnes removed to Waukesha County, Wisconsin, remaining there nine years. He removed to Logan County, Illinois, in 1856, and bought a farm in Oran Township, on the Kickapoo River, which is still owned by his widow. In the spring he removed to Atlanta, residing there till his death, which occurred March 25, 1883. He had been in failing health over two years prior to his death. He left a widow, who still resides in Atlanta, and two children - Mrs. Henry Wakeman, of Mason City, and Albert. His son, Irvin, died several years ago. Our subject was one of the associate judges of Logan

County under the old organization, receiving his commission in 1861. In 1867 he was one of the three commissioners who divided the county into townsliips, preparatory to the iirst election of township officers. Judge Barnes, as he was familiarly called, was a devoted husband and father, and in his death Logan County has lost one of her best citizens. His sterling integrity and uncompromising honor as a man can be attested by all who knew him.

George F. Bennett, of the firm of Bennett & E.uch, millers and grain dealers, A.tlanta, is a native of Vermont, born January 11, 1836, a son of Arthur and ITancy H. Bennett. When he was two years old his mother died, and he subsequently came with his father and other members of the family to Champaign County, Ohio. While yet a youth he began clerking in a general mercantile store at Woodstock, Ohio, where he was engaged about three years. In 1854 he entered Antioch College, at Yellow Springs, Ohio, from which institution he graduated in 1858. J3e was then employed as bookkeeper for a short time for a grain and milling firm at Urbana, Ohio. He was engaged in various business enterprises previous to coming to Atlanta, in 1879, since which time he has carried on a grain and milling business. Nov. 14, 1859, he was married to Orpha A. Marsh, of Champaign County, Ohio, and to them have been born eight children - Nellie A., Frederick M., Orpha A., Austin M., Georgiana E., Martha M., Arthur G. and George F. Arthur G. and George F. are deceased. In April, 1861, Mr. Bennett enlisted in the three-months service, in Company F, Second Ohio Infanti^, and was with the reserve corps at Bull Run. He re-enlisted in August, 1861, in the Second Ohio Infantry, and participated in the battles at Wild Cat, Mill Springs, Shiloh and other engagements. He was discharged on account of disability in July, 1862. In the fall of 1863 he enlisted as Captain of Company A, One Hundred and Twenty-first Ohio Infantry, Army of the Tennessee, and participated in the battle of Perryville, and in the numerous engagements while with Sherman in his advance on Atlanta, Georgia. He was wounded in tlie leg at Kenesaw Mountain, and received an honorable discharge in September, 1864. Mr. Bennett has served two terms as city Alderman, and was a director of the Atlanta public schools for the same length of time. In politics he is a Democrat, and is a prominent member of the Masonic fraternity.

four weeks old he was brought by bis parents, Benjamin and Rebecca Bentley, to Ohio, they settling about eighteen miles west of Gallipolis, on the Ohio Eiver. When nine years old he accompanied Ills parents to Highland County, remaining there three years, when they removed to Clinton County, remaining there till their death. John Bentley spent his youth in attending the subscription schools of Ohio, and after completing his education he taught one winter termot school in Greene County, that State. He has been married three times, his first wife being Alice (Houghey) Stutevan, by whom he had four children, two of whom are living - Hebecca and Harvey. He was subsequently married to Lucy F. (Ormsby) Hickox, and this union was blessed with one daughter - Serena, now the wife of James M. Boyd. The maiden name of his his present wife was Philena S. Hubbell. She was formerly married to a Mr. Adams. After spending a short time in McLean County, Illinois, Mr. Bentley came to Atlanta Township in the fall of 1854, where he has since resided, and where he has a farm of 326 acres of land under good cultivation. Mr. Bentley is a selfmade man, he having by his own industry, economy and good management acquired his present property. In politics he affiliates with the Hepublican party.

Samuel Sevan, deceased, was a native of Ohio, born in 1807, and was a son of Stacy and Lydia Bevan. He was reared in his native State, his educational advantages being limited. In 1836 he came to what is now Logan County, and settl^ in Atlanta Township. February 25, 1836, he was united in marriage to Eliza A. Downey, daughter of James and Mary Downey, who came to Logan County in 1835. Seven children were born to this union - Milton D., Ellen E., Serelda J., John L., Alexander, Richard G. and Annie M. Mr. Bevan was a highly esteemed citizen of this township till his death, which occurred May 20, 1882. He was a consistent member of the Missionary Baptist church, of which he was deacon for many years. He was justice of the peace of Atlanta Township for several years. In politics he was a Republican. His widow at present is a resident of Atlanta, having moved from her homestead farm in the fall of 1883.

David M. Boruff, deceased, was born January 2, 1841, in Monroe County, Indiana, a son of Samuel Boruff. He lived in his native State till manhood, and in January, 1862, he came to Logan County, Illinois. He was married December 1, 1864, to Sarah Weed, daughter of Peter Weed, a resident of Logan County. Two cMldren blessed this union - Corrilla A. and Theodore W. In 1867 Mr. Boruff moved with his family to Atlanta Township, where he settled on a farm located on section 27, where he lived till his death, April 12, 1879. Mr. Boruff served for a short time in the war of the Kebellion, enlisting in Indiana previous to his coming to Logan County. He was a member of the Christian church, and in politics a Democrat. His widow still resides in Atlanta. She is a member of the same church as her husband. She is the owner of a well-improved farm containing 110 acres.

Isaac N. Bowers was born July 4, 1833, in Shenandoah County, "Virginia, a son of Christian and Sallie Bowers, who were also natives of Virginia. He received but a rudimentary education in his youth, he having early ift life to assist with the farm work. He has followed farming through life and has met with success, and by his energy and industry he has acquired ninety acres of iiue land. He now resides on section 14, Atlanta Township, on which he settled in 1882, coming from Allen County, Kansas. He resided in his native State till 1881 when he moved to Kansas. He was married August 2, 1855, to Eliza Burkholder, a daughter of John and Amelia Burkholder. Nine of the twelve children born to this union are living - Laura Y., Robert B., Nettie G., Minnie B., Ira N., Lillie F., Isaac N., Bessie G. and Adele C.

Jacob Brier, a son of M. and S. Brier, was born May 10, 1840, in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania. When twelve years old he and his brother, John Brier, joined a colony from the east going to Iowa. They located on land in Washington County, that State, on which they lived for several years. He then came to Logan County, Illinois, and engaged in the butcher's trade, which he has almost continuously followed to the present time. After having been in business at Atlanta about three years, he enlisted in Company E, Seventh Illinois Infantry, the date of his enlistment being in July, 1860. He participated in the battles of Belmont, Fort Henry, Fort Donelson, siege of Nashville, Corinth and Shiloh. He was mustered out of the service in 1862, at Corinth, and for several weeks was engaged as a Recruiting Sergeant. He was afterward employed by officers of the One Hundred and Sixth Illinois Infantry as Drum Major, serving as such for six months, and in the summer of 1863 he returned to his home at Atlanta. He was married December 12, 1860, to Georgie C. Goddell, of Logan County. This union has been blessed with four children - EilaM., Hattie, Ulysses S. and Edward. Mr. Brier has been moderately successful in business and is classed among the best citisiens of Atlanta. He is a member of the Masonic and Odd Fellows orders and is a comrade of Atlanta Post, No. 326, G. A. R. In politics he is a staunch Republican.

Charles R. Cantrall is a native of Logan County, Illinois, and was a son of Zebulon and Mary Cantrall. His father was born August 24, 1805, in Bourbon County, Kentucky, and in 1811 removed with his parents to Ohio. He was married in Ohio, March 27, 1828, to Mary McLean, by whom he had seven children, of whom three are living - Smith M., born August 28, 1839; Thomas D., born March 2T, 1841, and Charles R., born June 9, 1853. Those deceased are - Rachel M., born April 8, 1834, died August 10, 1860; James M., born March 14,1830, died November 28, 1868; Robert A., born October 23, 1836, died August 15,1846, and Mary E., born June 30, 1845, died March 15, 1848. Zebulon Cantrall came to Logan County, Illinois, in 1834 and settled on section 36, Atlanta Township. He assisted in the organization of the Presbyterian church at Waynesville in 1836 and for twentytwo years served that church as ruling elder. He was justice of the peace of Atlanta Township for many years, and for several years served as associate judge of Logan County, being a wise and judicious counsellor. His death occurred September 3, 1861, his widow surviving him until February 22, 1882. Charles R. Cantrall, whose name heads this sketch, was reared in Logan County, and here received a fair English education. He was united in marriage December 17, 1873, to Alice McCrary, daughter of Thomas L. and Susan McCrary, the former deceased and the mother living in De Witt County, Illinois. Three children have been born to bless this union - Carrie F., born August 25, 1875; Frank D., born July 14, 1880, and Walter C, born January 22, 1883. In politics Mr. Cantrall casts his vote for the Republican party. He is a member of the Presbyterian church at Waynesville.

Alfred W. Chenoweth, the popular dentist of Atlanta, was born June 16, 1842, in Alton, Illinois. When he was an infant his parents, Alfred and Sarah E. Chenoweth, removed to St. Louis, he being educated in the public schools of that city. When he was seven years old his mother died, and at the age of sixteen he was partly thrown on his own resources. In 1859 he went to Ralls County, Missouri, where he was employed as a farm hand until the breaking out of the war. In March, 1862, he enlisted in Company E, Third Missouri State Militia, and for a time was under the respective commands of Generals McNeal and Eosecrans. He was on service principally in Missouri and participated in the capture of GeneralJefferson Thomson, at Pocahontas, Arkansas. He took part in the battles of Kirkville, Pilot Knob, the attack on Jefferson City and many other important engagements. He was discharged April 14, 1865, at Macon City, and after the war he came to Quincy, Illinois, where for six years he worked at the painter's trade. He subsequently moved to Decatur where he followed his trade, and at the same time studied dentistry with Dr. K. C. Hawkins. After successfully passing his examinations he practiced dentistry with his preceptor for one year. In May, 1881, he came to Atlanta, where he has established an excellent practice. Mr. Chenoweth was married in February, 1871, to Annie A. Wayne, of Quincy. Of the five children born to this union only two are living - Olive E. and AltaB. Mr. Chenoweth is a member of Atlanta Lodge, No. 165, A. F. & A. M. In politics he alBliates with the Republican party.

AzelE. Church, furniture dealer and undertaker of Atlanta, Logan County. He came to Atlanta in the summer of 1857, since which time he has been engaged in his present business, and keeps a large and well-selected stock of goods.

Jacob T. Coons was born October 22, 1847, in Morgan County, Ohio, and is a son of Roland and Nancy Coons, his mother now deceased. His parents came to Illinois in 1853, and first settled in McLean County, and in 1855 they came to Atlanta,Logan County. They had a family of four children, three of whom are yet living - Jacob T., our subject, Levi M. and Nancy J. At the age of fourteen years Jacob T. began learning the blacksmith's trade of his father, who for many years was the leading workman of his trade in Atlanta. He has been engaged in business for himself since 1879, and has built up a good trade, being a skilled and reliable workman. April 26, 1882, he was married to Mary Markland, of Atlanta. In politi2S he casts his suffrage with the Eepublican party.

John 8. Cornelius, of Atlanta, was born in Adams County, Ohio, July 12, 1826. His parents were Samuel and Elizabeth Cornelius, and were natives respectively of Virginia and Pennsylvania. Of their family of seven children only two are living - Kate and John S. John S. remained in his native county until reaching manhood. In 1853 he came to De Witt County, Illinois, and for some time was employed as a salesman by J. P. Dunham & Co., of Waynesville. October 20, 1854, he was married to Elizabeth Leeper, of De Witt County, and in 1856 he came to Atlanta, Logan County, where he was engaged as a salesman for the mercantile firm of A. J. Ludlam & Co., and afterward by Dunham & Maltby. In 1860 he again removed to De Witt County and followed farming there four years when he returned to his present home in Atlanta. He is the owner of eighty acres of land, and owns other village property. He and his wife are earnest members of the Presbyterian church. In politics he is a Kepublican.

Albert S. Corthon, son of John P. and Elizabeth Corthon, was born October 14, 1827, in Spottsylvania County, Yirginia. When a child he moved with his parents to Logan County, Ohio. When he was five years of age his father died, and when twelve his mother, and he then made his home with his uncle, J. W. Carter. Wm. E. Hamilton, M. D., then of Hunts ville, but now of Peoria, Illinois, was appointed his guardian. At the age of sixteen years he learned the carpenter's trade, starting out to maintain himself. November 14, 1850, he was united in marriage to Mary E. Willmurth, daughter of Joseph and Nancy Willmurth. To this union has been born seven children, five sons - Joseph C, Albert E., William P., Edgar M. and Dighton G., and two daughters- Elizabeth A. and Mary E., all of whom are living. In 1855 Mr. Corthon moved with his wife and two children, accompanied by his father-in-law and family, to Logan County, Illinois, locating at Atlanta, making the journey overland in wagons. Mr. Corthon worked as a carpenter in Atlanta from 1855 to 1858. In 1858 he formed a partnership with the late Andrew Downey and engaged in farming and stock-raising about ten years. He subsequently formed a partnership with the late Alexander Downey, with whom he engaged in farming and stock-raising several years. In 1873 he settled on his present place on section 28. He has been successful in all his undertakings, owing to his persevering industry and good management. He has now 135 acres of land in this township, 120 of which is under a high state of cultivation. Mr. Corthon is a member of Atlanta Lodge, I. 0. O. F., and has taken the honorary degrees. His wife has taken the Eebecca degree. He and his wife are Methodists, being identified with the church since its organization, and are active members. Mr. Corthon served for many years as trustee and for the past four years as district steward. In politics he and his five sons are rising Eepublicans.

William D. Grain, deceased, was bora in Logan County, Kentucky, September 21, 1819, and was a son of Armsted and Sarah Grain. He was reared to manhood in his native State, and August 13, 1840, he was united in marriage to Martha A. McJVIillin, daughter of William B. and Hannah McMillin. They had a family of nine children - ^Wesley T., Charlotte A., Virgil A., Cyrila M.,Emma A., William H., Josephus N., Calvin "W. and Lemuel, who died of measles while serving in the late war. William D. Crain enlisted in the late war in September, 1862, as Second Lieutenant of Company K, Eighth Kentucky Union Cavalry, and was in active service till his death, March T, 1863, caused by pneumonia, brought on by a fall from his horse. His widow and her family came to Illinois in a wagon, being fourteen days on the road, and settled in Hope Township, McLean County. Not having sufficient means to purchase a farm she rented land till 1875, when she pur. chased forty acres, on which she resided till March, 1880. She then came to Atlanta with her daughter, where she has since lived. She is a member of the Congregational church.

Andrew J. Deffenbaugh, a respected citizen of Atlanta Township, is a native of Perry County, Ohio, a son of Andrew and Harriet Deffenbaugh. When he was five years of age his parents removed to McLean County, Illinois, and settled in what is now Leroy Towuship, where they resided till their death. They had a family of eight children of whom five are living - Otha, Sophia, Elizabeth, Exy, and Andrew J., our subject. The latter was married to Sarah E. Chappell, of McLean County, and this union has been blessed with two children, a son and a daughter. Mr. Deffenbaugh settled in the southern part of Atlanta Township in the fall of 1861, where he has since made his home. He has been very successful in his farming pursuits, and is now the owner of 630 acres of land. He was bereft by the loss of his wife in April, 1882. In politics he affiliates with the Democratic party.

John J. Downey is a native of Logan County, born August 15, 1854r, a son of Andrew D. and Elizabeth (Gill) Downey, the father being a native of Ohio, and one of the earliest settlers of Atlanta Township, and the mother a native of Indiana. When he was twelve years old his father died, his mother dying two years later, leaving him an orphan at the age of fourteen years. After his mother's death he went to Bloomington, Illinois, and made his home with his sister, Mrs. H. W. Leach, for several years. He attended Shurtleff College at Alton, Illinois , over two years, and later spent a short time at the Commercial Business College, at Bloomington. He was then engaged for one year as cashier for the firm of J. E. Houtz & Co., dealers in dry-goods at Bloomington, and for three years he filled a similar position with J. H. Earl of the same city. In 18T9 he returned to Atlanta, and formed a partnership with J. M. Shipley in the jewelry business. The business was conducted under the firm name of Shipley & Downey until June, 1885, when Mr. Shipley retired from the firm leaving Mr. Downey sole proprietor. September 29, 1881, he was married to Ida Buchanan. They have one child - Leslie. Mr. Downey is at present mayor of Atlanta, having been elected to that office in March, 1885. He is one of the directors of the Atlanta public schools, and is ranked among the enterprising and public-spirited young men of this township. He is a member of the Odd Fellows order, and in politics he is a Republican.

W. S. Dunham, senior member of the firm of W. S. Dunham & Son, Atlanta, is a son of William W. and Mary G. Dunham, his father being for many years editor of the Providence, Rhode Island, Journal, in the early infancy of that paper. His parents came from Rhode Island to Ohio, and were among the first settlers of Washington County, where the subject of this sketch was born, September 28, 1827. In the spring of 1831 his parents removed to Waynesville, De Witt County, Illinois, where his father died, his mother surviving his death for many years. He received but a limited common-school education, attending school during his spare time during the winter months, he being obliged to assist with the work of the farm during the summer. He left home at the age of sixteen years, and for the two years following he was employed in the various departments of farming. When eighteen he entered the mercantile establishment of A. B. Lewis, at Waynesville, Illinois, as a clerk, with whom he remained three years and four months, beginning on a salary of $60 per year, which was gradually increased to $200 at the beginning of his third year's service. In 1848 he engaged in the mercantile business at Waynesville with 0. H. Ormsby, which was conducted one year under the firm name of Ormsby & Dunham, when a third partner was admitted to the firm, the business then being carried on for twenty-two months under the firm name of Ormsby, Dunham & Lowrey. Mr. Dunham then formed a partnership with his brothers, Jeremiah P. and Thomas E. Dunham, which firm continued under the name of J. P. Dunham & Co. till 1864, when our subject retired from the firm. In June, 1856, he began a general mercantile busines.s at Atlanta in company with Harrison Maltby, the firm of Dunham & Maltby existing until 1869, when Mr. Dunham sold his interest to his partner. He has continued in the mercantile trade since 1859, being associated with various parties, the present firm existing since 1879. Although having met with reverses he has been in the main very successful, being a man of more than average business management. During a part of the years 1862 and 1863 he, in partnership with Levi Shores and J. M. Parkinson, engaged in the wholesale grocery trade at Chicago, Illinois, the firm being known as Shores, Dunham & Co. He is one of the charter members of what is now known as the Illinois Midland Railway. He, in company with A. N. Dills, built twenty-six miles of that road, and from 1869 to 1875 he served as one of the directors. He served as trustee of Atlanta while a village, and in various ways was instrumental in the growth and advancement of this place. He has been twice married, his first wife being Adeline Branson. He was subsequently married to Martha E. Harrison, of Waynesville, Illinois, and to this union have been born five children, of whom four survive - Adeline B., Katie F., "William S. and Minetta E.

Samuel H. Fields, a representative citizen of Atlanta, Illinois, was born April 4, 1832, in Cheshire, Connecticut, and was a son of Samuel and Eliza (Brooks) Fields. Having received a fair English education he left his paternal home, and for a time followed the tinner's trade. In 1854 he came to Ogle County, Illinois, where with A. H. Fields and S. B. Sherwood he formed a partnership in the grain and lumber trade the firm doing business under the title of Fields & Sherwood. In 1856 he and Mr. Sherwood came to Atlanta, Illinois, where they embarked in the lumber trade, doing business under the firm name of Sherwood & Fields, until 1858, when the partnership was dissolved, leaving Mr. Fields sole proprietor. In addition to his lumber trade he has since added that of coal, lime, salt and agricultural implements. He has been prosperous in business, being possessed of good business qualifications. He is now serving his fourth term as supervisor of Atlanta Township, and is also chairman of the County Board of Supervisors. He was elected the first mayor of Atlanta after receiving her city charter, and has served one term since.

He is a member of Atlanta Lodge, No. 165, A. F. & A. M. ; of Atlanta Chapter, No. 188, Royal Arch Masons; is a member of Constantine Commandery, No. 51, Knights Templar, at Lincoln, Illinois, and is also a member of Oriental Consistory Ancient Accepted Scottish Eite Masons, of Chicago. In politics he affiliates with the Republican party. In November, 1857, our subject was united in marriage with Mary L. Leonard, of Atlanta, and to them have been born two children - Seward H. and Mary E., deceased. Mr. Fields ranks among our most enterprising citizens.

Stephan L. Foley was born near Springfield, Clarke County, Ohio, April 27, 1831, a son of Stephan and Elizabeth Foley, the father being a native of Virginia and the mother of Pennsylvania. In the fall of 183 i he came with his parents to Logan County, Illinois, they settling in Atlanta Township, near the place where our subject now resides, and here his father entered 400 acres of land. The parents lived in this township till their death, that of the father occurring in 1849, his widow surviving till 1864. They had a family of twelve children, of whom seven are living - Catherine, Millie, Elsie, Mary, James, Elizabeth A. and Stephan L, Those deceased are - John, Annie, Sarah, Fannie and William. Our subject was reared and educated in the district schools of Logan County. He was first married in April, 1855, to Phcebe Houchin, who died April 14, 1861. He was again united in marriage August 10, 1863, to Emeline Hanley, of Logan County, formerly of Ohio. Of the three children born to this union two are living - Fannie L. and James B. Mr. Foley has been successful in his farming pursuits and now owns 240 acres of fine land. He has served his township three years as road supervisor. In politics he affiliates with the Republican party.

Russell W. Folts, proprietor of the Atlanta Meat Market, was born June 13, 1835, in Syracuse, New York, a son of William and Elethere Folts. He was educated in the public schools of his native city, and at the age of fifteen years he began learning the blacksmith's trade, which he followed several years. In the winter of 1857 moved with his parents to Cassel, Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin. His father was a skillful and experienced workman at the blacksmith's trade, and was engaged in business in Cassel till 1864, when he came to Atlanta, Logan County, Illinois, and while here served as deputy sheriff, constable and city marshal. He died in 1869, his widow survivins till 1872. They were the parents of five children - Ebon D., William R., George W., Catherine and Russell W. Russell W. left his home in Wisconsin and came to Atlanta, Illinois, and has since coming here been engaged in various profitable enterprises and is meeting with success in his present business. He was married in July, 1863, to Mary E. Stout, of Atlanta. Three children have been born to this union, two of whom are living - Russell M. and Harry J. Mr. Folts is a member of Atlanta Lodge, No. 165, A. F. & A. M. He also belongs to the Odd Fellows order of which he is a representative member. In politics he is a Republican.

John B. Orint&r, of Atlanta, Illinois, was born August 17, 1823, in Logan County, Kentucky, where he was reared and there received a limited education. His parents, Francis and Susan Grinter, were natives of Virginia. October 19, 184:9, he was united in marriage to Sarah Young who was born June 22, 1830, in Washington County, Tennessee, a daughter of Henry and Deborah Young. Seven children have been born to them - Francis H., Mary F., Imogene L., John S. and three who are deceased. In the fall of 1851 Mr. Grinter came with his family to Illinois and settled on a farm in Mount Hope Township, McLean County. He came to Atlanta, Logan County, in 1863, where he has since made his home. Mr. Grinter is the owner of a good farm in Oran Township, this county. He and his wife are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian church. In politics he is a TrohibitioDist.

John Groves, one of the successful farmers of Atlanta Township, was born in Madison County, Ohio, April 6, 1823, a son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Summers) Groves, who were natives of Virginia. He was reared to manhood and received a limited education in the district schools of his native State. September 15, 1847, he was married to Elizabeth J. Cheney, who was born July 22, 1830, a daughter of Benjamin and Priscilla Cheney, of Champaign County, Ohio. Five children have been born to them - Florence A., Lawrence, Henry, Emma and Edwin, of whom the latter three are deceased. Mr. Groves came to De Witt County, Illinois, with his family in 1851, remaining there till 1867 when he came to Logan County and settled in Atlanta Township, where he is the owner of a fine farm of 115 acres. He is a member of Wayne Lodge, A. F. &. A. M.. of Waynes ville, Illinois. In politics he affiliates with the Republican party. His wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church.

moved to Illinois, locating in McLean County, where they lived several years. Subsequently they removed to Decatur, and later to Springfield, where the father aied. John D. and Isaac are the only survivors of the family of seven children. After the death of the father the mother married a Mr. Barnett who also died, and she is now living in E.ansas. Our subject's educational advantages were limited, having no opportunity for attending school, and such education as he received was obtained at home. After the death of his father Mr. Rale returned to McLean County. Re was married in Logan County, Illinois, in October, 1859, to Elizabeth Lappin, who was born and reared to maturity in Madison County, Ohio, coming with her parents to Illinois in 1852. To this union has been born one son- -Jacob F., born February 27, 1861. Mr. Rale returned to Logan County in the fall of 1859, he having lived near Mount Pulaski a short time previous to his marriage. Re has made farming his principal avocation through life, and is now the owner of a fine farm of eighty-five acres in Atlanta Township. In politics Mr. Rale is a Prohibitionist.

Francis M. HaHey, farmer and stock-raiser of Atlanta Township, was born July 8, 1855, in Logan County, Illinois, a son of Lewis and Elizabeth Rarley, the father now deceased. His parents settled on the place where our subject now resides in 1855, where his father died in January, 1873. Francis M. was reared to manhood on a farm and received a common-school education. February 22, 1877, he was married to Delia Tuttle, a daughter of Guy R. and Martha A. Tuttle, of McLean County, Illinois. One child, Edna, has been born to this union. Mr. Rarley has been successful in his farming operations and now has a well-improved farm in this township, and an equally fine residence. Re also has property in McLean County. In politics he is a Republican.

Elias Harness was born February 5, 1826, in Greene County, Ohio, a son of Peter and Susannah Rarness, who were natives of Virginia and of German descent. Re was reared to manhood in his native county and obtained his education in the early subscription schools. Re was married in De Witt County, Illinois, March 2, 1848, to Martha J. Strong, born in Greene County, Ohio, November 26, 1828, a daughter of John V. and Sallie Strong, who settled in Logan County, Illinois, as early as 1847. After their marriage they returned to Greene County, and in the fall of 1850 they settled in Atlanta Township, Logan County, Illinois, even before Atlanta was a village, his land now being part of its site.

Mr. Harness for many years carried on farming on a rather extensive scale, but of late years on account of ili-health lie has lived more retired. He is the owner of sixty acres of land in this township and 160 acres in McLean County, Illinois, but the greater part of his means is invested in Government bank stock. He has held the position of alderman several times and is president of the Board of Education and is at present serving his iifth year as director of the Atlanta public schools. Mr. Harness has served for ten years as a director of the Atlanta Agricultural Society and as director of the City Library A.ssociation. He has been identified with the growth and prosperity of the city of Atlanta from its infancy, and is always willing to assist in the advancement of its interest. In politics he is a member of the Kepublican party. He is a member of the Odd Fellows order and was trustee of his lodge four years. Mrs. Harness is a member of the Christian church.

John H. Hawes, grain and coal merchant of Atlanta, is a native of Logan County, born April 1, 1847. His parents, James M. and Mary A. (Bruner) Hawes, were natives of Kentucky and early settlers of this county, the father coming here in 1835 and the mother in 1836. The father is now deceased. To the parents were born eight children of whom six survive - Caroline C, John H., William J., James C, Mary E. and Minnie S. Our subject was reared and educated in the public schools of his native county, and has always lived here with the exception of three years spent in Champaign County, Illinois. February 18, 1875, he was married to Clara A. Eider, a daughter of Ephraim and Sarah Rider, of Champaign County. They have two children - James E., born December 6, 1875, and Bertie H., born January 12, 1881. In August, 1881, Mr. Hawes formed a partnership with Jeremiah Miller and engaged in the grain business, and in the following winter they also began dealing in coal. In the spring of 1885 this partnership was dissolved, since which Mr. Hawes has carried on the business alone. Mr. Hawes has served as school director of District No. 5, Eminence Township, and was also assessor of the same township. In politics he votes the Republican ticket. He and his wife are earnest members of the Christian church.

James L. HoUit, one of the old settlers of Atlanta Township, was born in Greene County, Ohio, April 3, 1813. In 1829 he came with his parents, John and Mellicent Hoblit, to Logan County, Illinois. He was reared to the life of a farmer and has always followed that pursuit. His educational advantages were limited, he being obliged at an early age to assist with the farm work. He has been twice married, his first marriage taking place January 2, 1833, to Catherine Lanson, and of the six children born to this union only one is living - a daughter, Mary. Those deceased are - Francis M., Christopher C, Eliza, William, and one who died in infancy. Mrs. Hoblit died in September, 1865, and June 22, 1868, Mr. Hoblit was again married, to Mrs. Lucinda (Staples) Sutherland. She was born October 28, 1819, a daughter of Abraham and Catherine Staples. She was first married to Silas Sutherland, of Cook County, Illinois, and to this union were born nine children - Charlotte A., Ellen A., Mary J., Mark M., Silas A., Elice C, Laura E., Gran and Orville. Gran and Orville are deceased. Mr. Hoblit is a self-made man, and by his own efforts has acquired a fine farm of 120 acres located in Atlanta Township. In former years he was quite a sportsman, devoting not a little time in hunting wild turkey and other game which abounded here in those times. In politics he casts his suffrage with the Democratic party. He and his wife are members of the Baptist church and respected citizens of Atlanta Township.

John A. Hoblit, President of the Atlanta Bank, is a native of Logan County, Illinois, born March 5, 1833, and is a son of Samuel and Abigail Hoblit, the father now deceased, who came from Ghio to what is now Logan County and settled in Atlanta Township in 1829. Here our subject was reared to manhood, and received a good common-school education. January 17, 1856, he was united in marriage to Nancy "Willmurth, daughter of Joseph and Nancy Willmurth, who came from Ghio to Logan County, where they died. Mr. and Mrs. Hoblit have had seven children, five of whom are yet living - Joseph W., A. Lincoln, Frank, Nellie and John A. Frank and Lincoln are graduates of Shurtleff College, of Alton, Illinois, and the latter is now filling a position in the Atlanta Bank. Mr. Hoblit has held the position of president of the bank since its organization as a national and as a private institution. He is the owner of a large amount of real estate, and is extensively engaged in farming and stock-raising. He has served his township as supervisor, and is at present one of tlie township trustees. He has been universally successful in all his undertakings, and gives liberally of his means both to the church and State. He is a member of the regular Baptist church, and for many years has held the position of deacon. Mr. Hoblit is of German descent, his ancestors having emigrated from that country to America about the time of the Revolutionary war, and settled in Pennsylvania. As a race the Hoblit family are thrifty and industrious, with a determination to succeed in any enterprise when once undertaken. This family is one of the oldest in Logan County.

John E. Hoblit was born December 31, 1817, in Greene County, Ohio, his parents, John and Mellicent Hoblit, being among the early settlers of that county. Mr. Hoblit is of German descent, and has inherited many of the sturdy qualities of that sturdy race. Of eleven brothers and sisters but five survive, viz. - James L., John E., Nancy, Catharine and Mellicent. The subject of this sketch was married September 12, 1838, to Rachel Larison, then of Mc- Lean County, Illinois, and by her had eight children, viz. - James T., Mary, Sarah, Rachel C, Caton, David L., Greene B. and John D. The two last named are deceased. Mrs. Hoblit died March 7, 1876, and in February, 1881, Mr. Hoblit was again married to Mrs. Presha Bush, widow of the late John, Esq., of Logan County. Mr. Hoblit's first wife, for many years prior to her death, was an invalid, and the constant and tender care given to her by Mr. Hoblit during her long and painful illness is yet a theme of praise by all his neighbors. Indeed, few men have better performed the sacred duties of husband and father than has Mr. Hoblit. For more than fifty years he has resided on the farm he now owns and lives upon, and in all his dealings with his neighbors, and likewise in the discharge of his duties as a citizen, Mr. Hoblit has merited and received the esteem of his neighbors. In politics he was reared and has remained a Democrat of the old school. Hospitality has always found an abiding place in his home. In a word, his life and example have been such as to be safely followed by the younger and rising generation in his county.

Lewis M. Hoblit, of Atlanta, is a native of Logan County, Illinois, born April 11, 1830, a son of Samuel and Abigail Hoblit, the father now deceased. His parents were among the earliest settlers of Atlanta Township. He was reared and educated in the district schools of this county. He has made farming his principal avocation through life, in which he has been very successful, and by his industrious habits and good management he has acquired a large farm of 340 acres. He has been twice married, taking for his first wife Eveline Houghey, formerly of Ohio, but at the time of her marriage living in McLean County, Illinois. To this union were born five children - Laban, Sylvanus, Josephine, Belle and

Abigail. For his second wife he married Mrs. Mary Newman Patchim. Mr. Hoblit is a stockholder in the Atlanta Bank. In polities he affiliates with the Kepublican party. He has held the office of city alderman of Atlanta.

Sylvester Hoblit, general manager of the Atlanta Bank, Atlanta, Illinois, was born May 5, 1849, in Logan County, Illinois. He is a son of Samuel (deceased) and Abigail Hoblit, and was reared on a farm in Logan County, receiving a common-school education. . He was engaged in farming until 1873, when he became actively engaged in the interests of the bank. On the retirement of his brother, Frank Hoblit, whose larger business interests at Lincoln demanded his more immediate attention there, he became general manager of the bank. On February 11, 1874, he married Adelaide Timmons, and has an interesting family of three children - Charles T., Samuel G-. and Mark. He is the owner of a fine farm of 120 acres. He has served as city alderman one term, and was elected to the office of mayor, March, 1886, on the temperance ticket. He has also been a director of the Union Fair Grounds at Atlanta for several years. He is a member of both the Odd Fellows and Masonic orders. In politics he casts his vote for the Republican party. 1 John H. Hoose, of the firm of J. H. Hoose & Son, carriage and wagon manufacturers, Atlanta, was born November 23, 1832. He received a fair education in his native country, Germany, and at the age of fifteen years he was apprenticed to learn the blacksmith's trade, becoming a journeyman when twenty years of age. In 1852 he immigrated to America, and for about two years was employed at his trade in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. He went to St. Louis, Missouri, in 1854, where he was married May 27, 1855, to Elizabeth Treusch, and to this union were born five children - George J., Henry, Oscar, Louisa and Amelia. In 1855 he came to Pekin, Illinois, where he worked at carriage blacksmithing for T. H. Smith & Co., and in the fall of 1859 he came to Atlanta, Logan County, and was employed by John Merc about three years. He engaged in business for himself in 1862, since which time he has had various partners, and in January, 1885, his son, George G., became associated with him, thus forming the present firm. The business is well established and in a prosperous condition. The firm also does an extensive trade in the agricultural imple: ment line. Mr. Hoose is a member of Logan Lodge, No. 176, I. O. O. F., of Atlanta. In politics he affiliates with the Republican party.

David Souser was born of German parentage, in Washington County, Maryland, September 22, 1789. When about six years of age he, with his father's family, emigrated to the then jvild West, and settled in Jessamine County, Kentucky, the home of the Boons and the Kentons, where he spent his boyhood days, and obtained such education as was afforded by the limited school facilities of the times. In the year 1820 he removed to Corydon, Indiana, where he engaged in farming and milling. A two-years residence at this place convinced him that, although strong in body and resolute in spirit, it would be useless to longer maintain the unequal contest against the poisonous malaria that reigned supreme over all Southern Indiana at that time, and having shaken for two years concluded to shake the soil of Indiana from off his feet, and with his family returned to his former home in old Kentucky. Here he again residedjfor a few years. But being, as he was, a radical anti-slavery man, and being constantly annoyed by the pernicious workings of this accursed institution, human slavery, he determined tj again and forever quit the State of his adoption, and to cast his lot with the free people of a free State. The result of this movement was a settlement in Clermont County, Ohio, where he bought land, cleared and improved a farm, and lived a cheerful, happy and prosperous life for twenty-five years. In the year 1852, and after a number of his children had gone West, he again determined to follow the setting sun, and with the remainder of his family settled in Waynesville, De Witt County, Illinois, where for three years he was engaged in the mercantile business, after which time he removed to the then new town of Atlanta, Illinois^ and was a resident of Logan County up to the time of his death, which occurred at Atlanta, May 9, 1878, at which time he had attained the ripe old age of eighty-eight years, having lived during the administrations of all the Presidents, from Washington to Hayes. He was married IS'ovember 14, 1813, to Elizabeth Dillman, of Bracken County, Kentucky, who shared the trials and triumphs of life with him, and was his constant companion until the time of her death, which occurred at Atlanta, Illinois, August, 1867, iwhich event closed a most happy married life of fiftj'-four years. Theirs was a good old-fashioned family of fourteen children, eight of whom still survive, names and residences being as follows - Elizanna Stubblefleld, Shirley, Illinois; David G. Houser, Lincoln, Illinois ; Elizabeth J. Evans, Waynesville, Illinois ; Susan E. Rankin, Pullman, Illinois; John M. Houser, Minneapolis, Kansas;

Jonas p. Houser, Lincoln, Illinois : Dr. "William W. Houser, Lincoln, Illinois ; Mary Gardner, Atlanta, Illinois. He was converted to p^od in the year 1820, and lived an humble, consistent Christian life up to the time of his death. In the year 1811 he made one of those famous trips "down the river" to ITew Orleans with a boat-load of produce, and after disposing of the same made the return trip to Kentucky through what was then known as the Indian territory in company with others, traveling the entire distance on foot, there being no steamers on Western waters at that date. He was an earnest and zealous advocate of all true reform, and although an ardent Whig, refused to support Henry Clay for President for the reason that he was a pro-slavery man and from a slave State. He was equally as earnestly opposed to intoxicants, and was among the very first to discard and oppose the same under any and all circumstances. In many respects David Houser was a model man, and although his life-path did not lead through the most exalted circles, yet his earnest devotion to sound morals, and his constant adherence to a simple yet pure honesty, and a firm yet childlike faith in his Savior, has left impressions for good on those by whom he was surrounded that will widen and continue to widen through all eternity.

Bobert James was born April 25, 1836, in Muskingum County, Ohio, a son of Caleb and Elizabeth James, natives of Pennsylvania. He received a common-school education, spending his early youth in Ohio. When fifteen years of age he went with his parents to Lucas County, Iowa, remaining there until his father's death in 1858. His mother survived her husband several years. They were members of the Friend's society. In the spring of 1858 Robert James came to Atlanta, Logan County, and in partnership with his brother, Lorenzo James, he engaged in a general grocery trade, this firm doing business under the name of L. & R. James till the spring of 1861 when he became sole proprietor of the business, and with the exception of eighteen months engaged in the grain trade he has since carried on the grocery business. Mr. James, although he has met with reverses, having lost at different times both his grocery and grain warehouse, is now meeting with good success. He has been twice married, first in January, 1861, to Esther Goodell, of Atlanta, by whom he had seven children, of whom five survive - Albert, Walter F., Winifred B., Minnie B. and George N. His second marriage occurred in April, 1880, to Alice Kesler, of Racine, Wisconsin. To this union have been born two children -

Jacob Judy, son of Jacob and Nancy (Hatfield) Judy, was born January 9, 1804, in Greene County, Ohio. He was reared to manhood iti his native State and received a rudimentary education in the subscription schools of those early days. After reaching maturity he came to Illinois and located in Tazewell County where he made his home for about thirty-nine years. He came to Logan County in 1864, since which time he has been a resident of Atlanta. He was married April 30, 1828, to Mary A. Musick, of Logan County, formerly of Kentucky, she having come here about the year 1819. Of eleven children born to this union eight survive - Nancy J., Kobert, Eliza, Lucinda, Henry, Annie, Martha and Mary. Henry served as a soldier in the Union army during the late war. Mrs. Judy died December 9, 1884. She was a consistent member of the Christian church for over fifty years, joining the church the year she was married. Mr. Judy has forty-one grandchildren and thirty-six great-grandchildren. On the organization of the Old Settlers' Association Mr. Judy was chosen its vice-president and still holds that position, and has always been actively devoted to its interests. He is a consistent member of the Christian church. His children and most of his grandchildren are members of the same church. In politics he is a Kepublican.

John H. Judy is a native of Logan County, born November 7, 1846, and is a son of Daniel H. and Elizabeth Judy, his mother now deceased. John H. obtained his primary education in a district school in Eminence Township, Logan County, and later attended the Atlanta public schools. In April, 1864, he enlisted in Company D, One Hundred and Forty-fifth Illinois Infantry, under the command of Oeneral Schofield. He was first sent with his regiment to Benton Barracks, Missouri, thence to Rolla; Missouri, where he was on guard duty. He was afterward engaged at J diet, Illinois, guarding prisoners. He received his discharge from the army in October, 1864, when he returned to Logan County. In 1865 he took a course of study at Bryant & Stratton's Business College, of Chicago, and for eight years he followed school teaching in the public schools of Logan and Tazewell counties, Illinois, and Livingston County, Missouri, and for some time was principal of the graded schools at Utica, Missouri. He began the study of law in 1869 with Brearley & Henry, of Pekiu, Illinois, and was admitted to the bar in 1871. He spent one year in legal practice in Delavan and one year in Lincoln, Illinois, after which he practiced his profession at Kingston, Missouri, for several years. In 1880 he returned to Atlanta where he is engaged in stock-raising and farming. He was married March 16, 1870, to Jennie Wilcox, of Delavan, Illinois. This union has been blessed with three children - Walter H., Leslie E. and Raymond W. Mr. Judy served four years as justice of the peace of Eminence Township, and was township clerk for the same length of time. In politics he is a Republican, and is a member of the executive committee of the Republican Central Committee of Logan County. He is identified with the Christian church of Atlanta of which he has officiated as elder for several years.

James A. Ladew, baker and confectioner, of Atlanta, was born June 22, 1835, in New York. When he was ttiree years old his parents, Augustus P. and Catherine P. Ladew, removed to St. Louis where ne was reared to manhood. His father had large land interests in McLean County, Illinois, which James A. in 1857 came to superintend. His mother died in St. Louis, and in 1859 his father came with his second wife to McLean County and took charge of the real estate. In 1858 and 1859 James A. Ladew was engaged in the lumber and grain trade at McLean, Illinois, and subsequently conducted a restaurant. November 29, 1859, he was married to Catherine M. Stryker, of Iowa. To this union have been born five children, four still living - Stella L., Nellie A., James E. and Feinie L. Mr. Ladew served as a soldier in the late war, enlisting in January, 1863, in Company D, One Hundred and Fifty-second Illinois Infantry. He served thirteen months, principally in corps detachments, located at various points in Tennessee. After his discharge in February, 1864, he returned to Mc- Lean County, and in 1873 he came to Atlanta,Logan County, where he has since established a good business reputation, and is meeting with fair success. In politics Mr. Ladew is a Republican. He is a member of the G-rand Army of the Republic, and is Adjutant of the post at Atlanta.

Joh7i B. Lambert^ the present efficient postmaster at Atlanta, Illinois, was born March 27, 1842, in Logan County, a son of Cornelius and Abigail (Tuttle) Lambert, who were early settlers of this county. John B. was reared on a farm, and on the breaking out of the late war he enlisted, August 16, 1861, in Company F, Thirty-eighth Illinois Infantry. He participated in numerous battles and skirmishes, among which were Stone River and Chicka- manga. At the battle of Ohickamauga {he was captured by the Southern troops, and for more than seventeen months he was confined in Southern prisons, among the most noted being: Smith Building, at Richmond; Belle Isle; Andersonville, Georgia; Florence and Charleston, South Carolina; and in these prisons he endured terrible hardships. He was subsequently paroled at Goldsboro, and was sent to Wilmington, North Carolina, and again joined the Union army. From Wilmington he was sent to Annapolis, Maryland, thence to St. Louis where he was furloughed for thirty days. He was discharged in the spring of 1865 when he returned to Logan County, and in partnership with his father, Cornelius Lambert, he engaged in the grocery trade at Atlanta under the firm name of J. B. Lambert & Co., and later he had an interest in a general news and notion store. In December, 1882, he was appointed to his present position of postmaster. For two years he served as deputy sherifi of Logan County, and was city marshal of Atlanta one year. He married Lida Yazell, of Atlanta, and to them has been born one son - Elbert. In politics Mr. Lambert affiliates with the Hepublican party.

Abel Larison was born April 15, 1822, in Morgan County, Ohio, a son of Abel and Rachel (Caton) Larison, who were natives of Maryland. In 1830 his parents came with a large family of children to what is now De Witt County, Illinois, and after living several years in Wayne Township they removed to Stanton Township, McLean County. The father died April 2, 1845, at Galena, Ilhnois, the mother's death taking place the following year. Of their family of ten children five survive - James M., Thomas J., Abel, Mary and Eliza. Those deceased are - Greenbury, Theophins C, Catherine, Rachel and Melinda. Abel Larison was in his ninth year when he accompanied his parents to Illinois. He has always followed farming pursuits in which he has met with success. In the early days of Logan County he had frequently to go sixty miles to mill over rough corduroy roads and Indian trails and often was obliged to wait several days before he could return home. October 20, 1842, he was married to Julia A. Stevens, a daughter of Adam and Mary Stevens, who are both deceased. They have had born to them eleven children - Mary J., Aroline, Annie, James A., John E., Francis M., Thomas J., Abel, Adam S., Leander (deceased) and one who died in infancy. Mr. Larison has held the office of deputy sheriff of Logan County. He also served as constable for twelve vears, and was commissioner of

Atlanta Township for three years. He is the owner of a fine farm located in the western part of this township. In politics he casts his suffrage with the Republican party. He is a member of Atlanta Lodge, No. 165, A. F. & A. M.

Jacob Leese, deceased, was born in October, 1798, in Pennsylvania where he was reared to manhood. By his first wife, Catherine Cole, he had seven children of whom five are living - Elizabeth, Sarah A., Savilla, Jacob and Catherine. He was again married in 1844 to Catherine Ebbert, daughter of Jacob and Catherine Ebbert, of Pennsylvania, and of the seven children born to this union five are living - William H., Amos M., Charlotte, Susan and Jeremiah. In 1856 Mr. Leese moved with his family to McLean County, Illinois, and in 1858 he settled in Atlanta Township, Logan County, where he made his home till his death, which occurred in 18T6. In politics he was a Democrat. His widow still resides on the homestead, and is the owner of a choice farm of fifty-five acres.

Philip B.Marquart, a prominent citizen of Atlanta, was born in Clarke County, Ohio, September 30, 1826, a son of David and Eliza A. Marquart, who were natives of Virginia. He obtained such an education as the early schools of Ohio afforded, which he attended principally during the winter terms. At the age of sixteen he was thrown on his own resources by his father's death. His mother was left with seven children of whom he was the eldest, and to lessen her burdens he went to live with an uncle, Samuel Marquart, of Clarke County. His uncle was a drover and trader, and for several years he was engaged in herding and transporting stock from Illinois to Pennsylvania. January 3, 1853, he was married to Nancy L. McKinnon, of Madison County, Ohio, and in 1854 he came to Logan County and settled in what is now Oran Township, where he carried on farming and stock-raising with good success. In 1866 he removed to Atlanta where for two terms he served as mayor, and has also filled the position of city alderman. He is the owner of 400 acres of land in Oran Township, and also has property in Atlanta Township. He is a member of Atlanta Lodge, No. 176, 1. O. O. F.

George H. Mason, deceased, was a son of George and Elizabeth Mason. He was born November 20, 1827, in Louisville, Kentucky, and when seven years of age he came to Bloomington, Illinois, where he remained till his twenty-first year. He then went to Tazewell County, Illinois, where he was married October 4, 1849, to Harriet Stiles, a daugiiter of John and Harriet Stiles, who were natives of New Jersey. Five children were born to them, only two now living - William H., the present city clerk, and Edwin E. After his marriage Mr. Mason located at Tremont, Tazewell County, where for several years he followed the cooper's trade. In the spring of 1858 he came to Atlanta, Logan County, and in partnership with Jacob Lease he engaged for a short time in the grocery business. He was subsequently engaged in the same business for one year with David G. Houser, at the end of which time he became sole proprietor, and conducted the same business successfully till his death, which occurred May 21, 1881. In politics he was a Republican. He was a member of the Presbyterian church. His widow still belongs to that church. She and her sons are still engaged in carrying on the business.

Samuel R. McFadden was born in Knox County, Ohio, October 8, 1830, a son of Mercer and Huldah (Sutton) McFadden. His parents had a family of eight children - Joseph, Zebulon, Rachel, Hannah, Samuel R., Nancy, George and Elsie. Our subject was reared to manhood on a farm, and received a good academic education. In 1854 he came to Illinois bringing a large drove of sheep, and spent about three years in this State, principally in Menard County, at which time he sold his entire flock. Returning to Ohio he engaged in agricultural pursuits till 1861, when he returned to Illinois, again bringing another large drove of sheep, and for many years he was extensively engaged in stock-raising in Atlanta; also, bought and shipped fat st(>ck to market for years. He was married in May, 1868, to Mary A. Eastman, a daughter of Rev. Larnard L. and Lucy A. Eastman, who were formerly of Hanover, New Hampshire, but now residents of Methuen, Massachusetts. In April, 1878, he was appointed assistant superintendent of the State Reform School, at Jamesburg, New Jersey, and his wife being a lady of excellent qualitications, was engaged as a teacher in the same institution, they holding their respective positions till June, 1884, when they resigned, and in the springof 1885 returned to Atlanta, Logan County. Mrs. McFadden's brother is the present superintendent of the State Reform School for boys at Providence, Rhode Island. Mr. McFadden is a member of the Odd Fellows order. In politics he casts his suifrage with the Republican party. He and his wife are members of the Presbyterian church.

and Elizabeth Miller, moved to Monroe County, Indiana, where he was reared to manhood. In 1848 he came to Logan County, Illinois, and was married February 2, 1850, to Sarah A. Hawes, a daughter of John and Sarah Hawes, who were early settlers of this county. Six of the seven children born to this union are living - Arthur P., Clara A., Jolin E., Charles A., Frank H., and William

A. Mr. Miller located in Orvil Township soon after his marriage and there he lived for many years, residing in the neighborhood of Betiiel Church. After leaving Orvil Township he resided for a short time in Eminence Township, and in the fall of 1876 he removed to Lincoln that his children might have better educational advantages. He returned subsequently to his farm in Eminence Township, remaining there until the spring of 1882, when business interests at Atlanta caused his removal to that place. His death occurred at Atlanta, October 2, 1885, and his remains were interred in Bethel Cemetery, Orvil Township. He was an active member of the Christian church, serving several years as deacon, and as a citizen he was highly esteemed in this community. His widow still makes her home in Atlanta. She is also a member of the Christian church.

Henry G. Montgomery^ a prominent farmer and stock-raiser of Atlanta Township, residing on section 16, was born October 13, 1825, in Gibson County, Indiana. His parents, Thomas and Catherine Montgomery, were natives of Kentucky and Tennessee respectively. He received a limited education in the district schools of his native county, and from his youth has been engaged in agricultural pursuits. He left Gibson County in 1847, and started for Illinois, and after a long and tedious ride on horseback over rough roads and Indian trails, he finally reached Logan County, where for the first three years he made his home with the late Harvey Turner. In 1850 he bought his first eighty acres of land which was located where he now resides. He is one of the most successful farmers of this township, and is the owner of 366 acres of land in Atlanta Township, and eighty acres in McLean County. He was married in February, 1854, to Celinda Andrews, of Rhode Island. Two sons were born to them - Harvey T. and "William H., of whom William H. is deceased. Mrs. Montgomery died in July, 1857, and in October, 1858, he was married to Miss L. A. Beardsly, of Genesee County, New York. The children born to this union are - Thomas E., Isaac J., Harriet M., Minnie

Charles H. Pierce, one of the stockholders of the Greenview Coal Company, of Menard County, Illinois, was born November 4, 1834, in Sangamon County, Illinois. He is a son of Charles R. and Melinda (Anderson) Pierce, who are both natives of Tennessee, but now living in Leavenworth, Kansas. Of his father's family of twelve children, eleven survive - Caroline, Tennessee, George, Isaac, Mary, Charles H., Perry, Tabner, Cassie, Clinton and Ann. Our subject was reared to manhood in his native county, and received a common-school education. In 1855 he went to Kansas where for a few years he engaged in farming. For several years prior to the breaking out of the late war he was engaged in superintending the transfer of the traffic across the plains by contractors who had charge of the route. In the fall of 1861 he was employed by the Government as wagon-master of Kansas, in which position he served about six months. In the meantime he was captured by some Confederate soldiers, but was shortly after released. In the spring of 1862 he was sent by the Government to New Mexico on a similar service which he followed till the close of the war. He came to Logan County, Illinois, in 1865, and with the exception of two years spent in Arkansas he has since lived here, and is now a resident of Atlanta. June 10, 1869, Mr. Pierce was married to Mrs. Annie (Stevens) Tuttle, widow of the late Francis M. Tuttle, of Logan County. In politics Mr. Pierce affiliates with the Republican party.

Adoniram J. Randolph was born July 8, 1839, in De "Witt County, Illinois, a son of William and Matilda Randolph, his parents being natives of North Carolina. He was reared on a farm till sixteen years of age, and received a good common-school education. In 1861 he went to Bloomington, Illinois, and in company with Noah H. Smith engaged in the dry-goods business which he followed three years, under the firm name of Smith & Randolph. He was then employed as a salesman by the firm of W. H. Johnson & Co., until 1867, when he came to Atlanta, Logan County, and formed a partnership with W. R. Barkshire, with whom he was associated in the mercantile business till 1871. He subsequently engaged in the same business with his brother, the firm name being A. J. Randolph & Brother. In 1878 he sold his interest to his brother and engaged in the insurance business. He represents various insurance companies, among them being the following: Phoenix, of Hartford; Home, of New York; Under writers, of New York; Queen, of Liverpool, England ; North western National, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin ; and the Fire Association, of Philadelphia. Mr. Eandolph was married in February, 1864, to Margaret E. Morris, daughter of John and Elizabeth Morris, formerly of Atlanta but now deceased. One child, Delia L., has been born to them. She is now deceased. In 1881 Mr. Eandolph was elected justice of the peace and served as such four years. In the spring of 1 885 he was again elected to the ofiBce of police magistrate. He served one term as councilman, prior to its admission as a city, and has also served as alderman of the First "Ward one term. He is one of the signers of the charter granting Atlanta city privileges. He is a member of Central Lodge, No. Ill, A. O. U. W., of Atlanta.

Thomas M. Reeves, deceased, was born November 17, 1840, in Hamilton County, Ohio. He was a son of Daniel B. and Elizabeth Eeeves, with whom when a boy he came to Illinois. He was reared and educated in the common schools of Logan County, and February 22, 1866, he was married to Harriet Clayton, who came with her parents, Joseph and Mary Clayton, from Perry County, Ohio, to Tazewell County, Illinois, when a child. To this union were born four children - "William E., born May 13, 1867; James D., January 22, 1870; Thomas D., June 6, 1876, and Frederick C, February 1, 1879. Shortly after his marriage Mr. Reeves settled in Atlanta Township, living here till his death, which occurred April 5, 1881. He was a kind, affectionate husband and father, and during his residence here won the respect of all who knew him. He served as a soldier in the late war, and participated in many hotly contested battles, the hardships and exposure which he endured being the primitive cause of his early death. In his religious views he was a Presbyterian, serving his church for some time as an elder. His widow, who at present is a resident of Atlanta, is also identified with the Presbyterian church. In politics Mr. Eeeves was a Republican. He belonged to the Odd Fellows order, and to the Ancient Order of United "Workmen.

Augustus Beise is a native of Saxony, Germany, born November 25, 1821, a son of Charles A. and Caroline Reise. -They had a family of eight children of whom six survive - Augustus, Frederica, Caroline, Frederick, Charles G. and Herman, who came with them to America in 1844. The family first went to St. Louis where they remained many years. The parents subsequently came to

Atlanta, Logan County, living there till their death. Our subject came to Logan County in 1851, and in 1857 located on a farm near Atlanta, settling on the place where he now resides in 1867. Mr. Eeise was first married in July, 1847, to Elizabeth German, who died in August, 1881. To this union were born five children, four still living - Clara, Augustus J., Amelia and Lillie M. In May, 1884, Mr. Eeise was married to his present wife, whose maiden name was Mary Mehrtens. Mr. Eeise represented Logan County in the Twenty-seventh General Assembly of Illinois, serving with credit both to himself and to his constituents. He was tendered a renomination, but declined to 'accept. He has served as councilman of Atlanta, and also as director of the public schools.

Chwrlea O. Heise, farmer and dealer in ice, Atlanta, is a native of Saxony, Germany, born June 5, 1832, a son of Charles A. and Caroline Eeise. He immigrated with his parents to America in 1844, and in 1851 from St./ Louis he came to Logan County, Illinois, locating near Atlanta, and in 1862 settled in Atlanta. In July, 1862, he enlisted in Company E, Eighty-second Illinois Infantry, and shortly after his enlistment he was promoted to Orderly Sergeant, serving as such during the remainder of his service. Prior to his discharge, which occurred June 9, 1865, he was commissioned First Lieutenant, but failed to be mustered in as such. He took an active part in the battles of Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Chattanooga, Peach Tree Creek, Savannah, Smithfield, Iforth Carolina, and numerous others of minor importance. He was united in marriage July 22, 1866, to Adeline Mehrtens, by whom he has had seven children, of whom four are living - Julius A., Charles J., John D. and William F. Mr. Eeise is at present filling the position of road commissioner of Atlanta Township, having been elected such in the spring of 1885. In politics he affiliates with the Democratic party. He is a comrade of the Grand Army post at Atlanta.

Thomas Roach, farmer and stock-raiser of Atlanta Township, was born near Jacksonville, Illinois, in 1843, a son of Needham and Mary A. (Beeworth) Eoach. When he was a boy his parents removed to Logan County, Illinois, where he was reared to manhood. February 26, 1877, he was married to Mary Pierce, and to them has been born one child - Opha D. Mr. Eoach has made farming his principal occupation through life, and is classed among the enterprising farmers of Atlanta Township. He is a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian church. His father, Needham

Koach, was a son of John and Rachel Roach. He was a native of Tennessee, born in 1799. In 1838 he moved to Morgan County with his first wife and family. By his first marriage he had six children of whom five are yet living. He was subsequently married to Mary A. Beeworth, and to this union were born nine children, five yet living. The father settled with his family in Atlanta Township in 1852, where he died in 1867. His widow married her present husband, Reason Mills, in February, 1875. Mr. Roach was .for many years a local minister in the Cumberland Presbyterian church.

James M. Buck, junior member of the firm of Bennett & Ruch, millers and dealers in grain, is a son of Henry and Sarah Ruch. He was born January 6, 1837, in York County, Pennsylvania, and in 1840 moved with his parents to Butler County, Ohio, where his father died in 1847. His parents had a family of five children of whom three survive - John, Elizabeth and James M. Our subject was reared on a farm till his nineteenth year, and received the benefit of a common-school education. After leaving the farm he engaged in milling in Butler County where he followed his trade till 1868, after which he was similarly employed in Darke and Miami counties, Ohio, a short time. In 1868 he came to Illinois and followed his trade two years at Bloomington, and was subsequently employed a short time at Cerro Gordo, Piatt County, Illinois. He was afterward employed at Decatur and Peoria, and in 1879 he became a resident of Atlanta. After coming to this place he was first employed by the firm of Marsh &, Bennett, the former withdrawing from the firm in 1883 when Mr. Ruch was admitted as a partner. He is a skillful and experienced miller, and thoroughly understands all branches of his business. January 1, 1863, he was married to Melinda B. Beeling, of Butler County, Ohio. In politics Mr. Ruch is a Prohibitionist. He has held the office of city alderman for two terms. He is a member of Atlanta Lodge, No. 176, 1. O. O. F.