Boynton Township

Boynton Township

THIS township is situated in the southern portion of Tazewell county. In point of acres under cultivation it is not surpassed by neighboring townships, and when we take into consideration the fact that Boynton, but a quarter of a century ago, contained but little tillable land, the result is marvellous. It was attained only through unflagging energy on the part of its enterprizing citizens and an admirable system of tile drainage. The first settlement was made by Joseph Grant on Section 9, in 1839; the first birth, in 1842, w^as Albert, son of Robert Houston, who settled here about the year 1840. Benjamin Roe also came during that year, G. W. Clamon located 6 years later. Among those who settled prior to 1852, we find Samuel Falor, John Blair, Andrew Kerr, and Wm. Benton. In 1850 Wm. Milner, Charles and Richard Holden and John T. Scates, Wm. and Peyton Alexander, John Jacobus and others. In 1854 the township was organized and the following persons, some of whom are now prominent in the affairs of the township, met at the residence of James Huston as a committee on organization : James Crawford, Wm. Wooters, Daniel Bennett, Ira Judy, Wm. Burton, John T. Scates, John Jacobus, Philip Wade and others were present. The majority of the citizens assembled on this occasion declared in favor of township organization. Many were the names suggested with which to christen their township, in consequence of which a ballot was taken. After the lapse of considerable time spent in discussion, it finally received the name of Boynton, in honor of an Eastern gentleman of that name.

There is a post-office kept in the center of the township. Mail is received three times a week. The character of the schools and school-houses are good, and every improvement in the township adds its testimony to the enterprise, thrift and culture of the people. Among the representative farmers of Boynton, those who make its history and mold its destiny, we call attention to the following gentlemen :

E. Atkinson, farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 14 ; P. O., Boynton. The subject of this sketch was born in Ohio in 1844. During the same year his parents moved to Tazewell county, where Mr. A. has since resided, and where he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Farmer, a daughter of John H. Farmer of Logan Co., Kentucky. Two children blessed this union - Emma A. and Martha Jane. Mr. Atkinson has witnessed many changes in the beautiful county of Tazewell, wrought by the swift hand of Time. In this Township he has acquired a farm property of 80 acres and few are of a more hospitable disposition than he.

George Bcnhler was born in Baden, Ger., near the banks of the historic river Rhine, on the 16th of Feb., 1832; turned to farm life from his earliest days. He acquired a good common school education, and at the age of 25 crossed the ocean ; after a short delay in New York made his way to Chicago, and thence to McLean Co. 111., and finally to Tazewell Co., where he first procured employment as a farm hand. He worked early and late to procure enough to get a start in life. In 1865 he was married to Miss Delilah Burton, daughter of Wm. Burton, of this township. In 1867 Mr. B. succeeded in purchasing an 80-acre tract of land on sec. 9, which he has improved greatly by tiling. Of his marriage with Miss Burton five children were born, four of whom are living - Esther, John, Emma and William. Post-office address, Boynton.

Christian Beaver, farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 6 ; P. O., Delavan. Although not ranking among the original pioneers of this county, Christian Beaver is worthy of more than a passing notice. He was born in Adams Co., Ohio, in the year 1808. His father, Michael Beaver, was a native of Penn., and in an early day, at a time when Daniel Boone ruled, in a measure, the destinies of Kentucky, Michael Beaver, then but a youth, accompanied his parents to the then wilds of Kentucky. When we take into consideration the fact that not a steamboat plowed our AVestern waters, and Kentucky the home of wild beasts and still wilder men, this was indeed a bold step on the part of these daring pioneers. He resided many years in Kentucky, and in 1808 located in Ohio at a time when Ohio was the home of the red men, and was inhabited by few white men, save the hunter and trapper in search of new scenes and incidents. During his 19th year the subject of this sketch, with his parents, moved to Fountain Co., Indiana, where the head of the family passed the remainder of his days. We now follow the fortunes of him whose name heads this column and from whorn our narrative is obtained. In 1831 he was united in marriage to Miss Lydia Heuston, a native of Indiana. Here Mr. Beaver continued to reside until 1862. One year previous Mrs. Beaver was laid at rest in Fountain Co. Of this marriage thirteen children were born, 6 of whom are living, Daniel, Sarah, Mary, Samuel, Simon, Phoebe, Asa, Ann, Abraham, Jacob, Mahala, Eliza, Ellen. In 1862 Mr. Beaver was married to Miss Phrana Livingood, a native of North Carolina. One child blessed this union - Christian. During the year above mentioned Mr. B. located in Boynton township, where he now resides.

John Beezley, farmer and stock raiser, Section 21 ; P. O., Boynton ; was born in Shelby Co., O., on the 15th of April, 1843. He is the oldest son of William Beezly, a native of Clark Co., O., now a resident of Iowa and a farmer. John came to Illinois - Logan Co. - in 1859, and was quietly pursuing his farm duties when the war broke out. He then enlisted as a private in Co. F., 38th III. Infantry. He participated in the battles of Perryville, Stone River, Chickamauga, Franklin, Nashville and in Sherman's Atlantic Campaign. He was promoted for meritorious conduct, March 23, 1864, to 1st Lieutenant, which he served till he was mustered out April 9, 1866. When Gen. Rosecrans had charge of the army of the Cumberland he organized a corps of honor to which Mr. B., as a veteran, belonged. After the war he returned to Logan Co. and engaged in farming until he came to Boynton, in 1868. In 1867 he was married in DeWitt Co. to Mattie, daughter of Edward and Margaret Morris, natives of England and Virginia, respectively. Three children were born of this marriage - Jennie May, Margaret A. and Alice G.

L. C. Blair, farmer and stock raiser. Section 18; P. O., Delavan. The subject of this biography is a native of Tazewell Co., where he was born in 1851. His lather, J. J. Blair, was a native of New York State ; he was a farmer by occupation, and there married Miss Elizabeth Clark. About 1850 he came West and settled in Tazewell Co., where he followed farming until his decease, which occurred in 1858. Mrs. Blair survived her husband several years, being laid at rest in the Delavan Cemetery in 1866. The survivors of the family are seven in number - Emily, Allie, Winfield, Anna, Bessie, L. C. and Susan. L. C. Blair grew to mature years in this Co., where, in 1876, he was united in marriage to Miss Rosa E. Verbryck, by whom he had one child - Warren. The homestead property consists of 120 acres.

Daniel Brenneman, farmer and stock raiser. Sec. 3 ; P. O., Hopedale. The subject of this sketch is one of the oldest and wealthiest agriculturalists of Boynton township. He was born in Germany, in the year_ 1804. His father, Jacob Brenneman, was a well-todo farmer in his native land, and on the old farm homestead young Daniel grew to manhood, and there married Miss Elizabeth Jutzic. In 1832 he first landed in America, and subsequently, for a period of 22 years lived in Warren Co., O., where he resided until the spring of 1854, when he located in McLean Co. In 1855 he settled in Boynton township. By this union they had seven sons and six daughters, namely - Jacob, Mary, Peter, deceased, Eliza, Joseph, Phoebe, deceased, Ella, John, Christian, deceased, Anna, William, Amelia, and Edward. Mr. B. began his agricultural career in poverty, but after a long and successful career he now en- ioys the fruits of a well spent life. Mr. Brenneman lias succeeded, *bv the characteristic energy of the German people, in acquiring a farm, consisting of 320 acres in Boynton township.

Jacob Brenneman, farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 4 ; P. O., Hopedale. Jacob Brennaman ranks among the more opulent farmers of Bovnton township. He is a native of that portion of Germany ceded to Prussia at the close of the war of 18(36, and was born in 1827. Five years thereafter his parents, whom we shall find occasion to mention, concluded to cast their lot in America, and after the usual voyage landed in Baltimore. They remained but a short time when they moved near Cincinnati, where young Jacob received a liberal education. On the 20th of Nov., 1853, he was united in marriage to Miss Jacobinia Jutzic. It was during the spring of 1854 that Mr. B. moved flirther west, coming to McLean Co., 111. He remained there until 1855, when he became a permanent resident in Tazewell Co., locating in Boynton. Like nearly all settlers at this time his means were limited : so much so that he did not purchase property till 1856, when he bought 160 acres on Sec. 9. Since this period, when the financial horizon appeared none the brightest, Mr. B. has prospered, even far exceeding his most sanguine hopes of a quarter century ago. At the present writing he is the owner of 520 acres of land unsurpassed in the county. Fortune has smiled bountifully upon him, but it has by no means dwarfed his naturally enterprising spirit of liberality. Of the marriage above referred to seven children were born, six of w^iom are living and whose names are - Maria L., Julia A., Albert I., Amelia E., Minnie S. and Wm. C. Mr. B. represents this township in the Board of Supervisors.

Joseph Brenneman, farmer and stock raiser, sec. 1 ; P. O., Hopedale. Although of German parentage, as the name implies, yet he was born in Warren Co., O., Nov. 22, 1833. There he passed his early youth and grew to manhood. The year 1854 found the family enroute for the fertile prairies of Illinois, where, in Tazewell Co., and this township, they settled on farm property. It was here he embarked in life for himself and has proven himself the possessor of good business ability. He ranks among the liberal and progressive farmers of the county. In 1858 he was united in marriage with Miss Eliza Ensmann, daughter of Peter Ensmann, of Bureau Co., 111. In 1865 Mr. B. made his first purchase of farm property, consisting of 160 acres in Boynton, where, and in Hopedale, he now owns 300 acres. The marriage refered to has been blessed with three children - Otitia F., William A., and Sidney.

Wm. M. Burton, farmer and stock raiser, sec. 8 ; P. O., Delavan. William Burton is a well known agriculturalist of Boynton township, and among the early pioneers of this Co. He was born in Adams Co., Ohio, in March, 1811, where he received, so to speak, a round log-cabin education, and passed his boyhood amid the associations of pioneer life. Hearing many glowing accounts of the fertility of Illinois, thither he directed his footsteps in 1837, and first located in Peoria, here, however, he remained but a short time, as the following morning he proceeded on foot to the village of Peru. Shortly after he went to Groveland, where he secured employment as a rail-splitter, where he afterwards married Miss Rebecca Staples, a daughter of Joshua vStaples, of New York State. Mr. B. made his first purchase of land in 1850, in Boynton township, consisting of 160 acres.

Robert Collins, farmer and stock raiser, sec. 28 ; P. O., Boynton. Robert Collins was born in Ohio, April 5, 1841, and spent his boyhood days upon the old farm homestead. His father, Barnabus Collins, was a native of Pennsylvania, and in an early day came to Ohio, where he married Miss Aimee Miller, by whom he had six children, of whom Rob't is the fourth. He came to Boynton in 1865 and first secured employment as a farm hand. He purchased his present farm of 80 acres in 1869. When the war broke out he enlisted in Co. B, 106th Ohio Infantry, and was honorably discharged in 1864 and returned to his home in Tazewell.

James Crmrford, farmer and stock raiser, sec. 16, P. O., Boynton. Mr. C. is a well known resident and prominent farmer of the township. He was born in Rochester, N. Y., Feb. 29, 1832. He is the third child of David Crawford, a native of Ireland, and who came to America during the autumn of 1830. He was then married, having united his fortunes with Miss Margaret Alexander. He settled at Rochester, N. Y., and afterwards moved to Iowa where he died, leaving to the care of his estimable wife five children - Mary A., Margaret, David, Samuel and James. The latter grew to manhood in the States of Ohio and Indiana, and during the spring of 1851 directed his footsteps to Tazewell Co., where he first Avorked as a farm hand, receiving therefore 50cts. per day. In 1855 he was married to Elizabeth, daughter of Samuel Falor, of Penn. Of this marriage seven children were born, all of whom are now living. - Margaret J., Emma, Samuel, Eliza A., Byron, Clara and Mary Mr. C. has succeeded well in the agricultural walks of life. In 1876 he served the township as Assessor.

Henry Curtis, farmer and stock raiser, sec. 18; P. O., Boynton. The above named gentleman was born in Fountain Co., Ind., April 26, 1839. He is the oldest son of Henry and Elizabeth Curtis. Henry Curtis, Sr., is a native of New York State and came to Tazewell Co. at an early day, and in 1854 located in this township. Henry, whose name appears at the head of this article, grew to manhood in Boynton township, and on Feb. 11, 1864, was united in marriage with Mary E. Matthews, daughter of Eli W. Matthews, deceased. Their children number four - Ida A., Angie M., Ruble E., and Florence. Mr. C. ranks among the more liberal, progressive farmers of the township, and owns 240 acres of well improved and tilled land. He is a consistent member of the M. E. Church.

He is a native of New Jersey, where he was born August 15th, 1833. His fother was born in Pennsylvania; was a stone mason by occupation, who acquired his trade in New Jersey, where he married Miss Martha Severns, of that State. Of eight chiklren born of this marriage the subject of this sketch is the eklest. He lived with his parents in N. J. until he was fourteen, when he went with them to Indiana, where, fourteen months later, the head of the family passed away from earth. Upon Robert, then scarcely sixteen, devolved the support of a mother and a family of eight children. With a resolution beyond his years he rented a farm and for many years "roughed it," living in a log cabin and enduring all the hardships of pioneer life. After working hard for 37|cts. a day, and board, when the day's labor was done the youth applied himself diligently to his studies, acquiring thereby a liberal education, that subsequently turned to good account. On attaining his majority he secured a school, which he taught for several winters, farming during the summer season. While engaged in the latter the war broke out, he enlisted in Co. F., 52 Ohio Inf and afterwards to the 53d. He remained until after the battle of Shiloh, where he escaped with a slight wound. When the smoke from the guns of the ever-to-be-remembered Shiloh had cleared away he was discharged, and returned to his home in Indiana, where he was married to Miss Amanda Freeman. In 1864 he moved to Logan Co., 111., and in 1870 located in this township.

James Donley, farmer and stock raiser, sec. 8 ; P. O., Delavan. The whole-souled gentleman whose name heads this page was born near Rochester, in the State of New York, on the 30th of April, 1829. At an early day his parents, George and Elizabeth Donley, settled in Jefferson Co., Ohio, where the head of the family found employment in a woolen factory. Young Donley grew to manhood in Ohio, and at an early age also secured employment in a woolen mill. In 1852 Mr. D. was united in marriage to Miss M. C. McCary. In 1854 he set out for Illinois, and first found employment in McLean Co., subsequently settling in Delavan township, Tazewell county, where he rented farm property. At the end of two years he purchased the property of Milner Brown, consisting of 160 acres, the property he now owns, brought to a high state of cultivation. Of the marriage above mentioned six children are now living - Lizzie, Samuel, Mary B. D., Frank, Laura, and Nellie. Samuel Donley, farmer and stock raiser. Sec. 15; P. O., Boynton. Samuel Donley is a native of Belmont county, Ohio, where he was born in 1855; is oldest son of James Donley, a patron of this work. Samuel grew to the mature years of manhood in this county. In 1878 he was united in marriage to Miss Florence Ireland, a daughter of a well known farmer of this township.

Michael Fanning, farmer and stock raiser, sec. 16 ; P. O. Boynton. Michael Fanning, as the name implies, is a native Irishman, and ranks among the more generous agriculturalists of this town- ship. He was born in the County of Tipperary, Ireland, about 1815. Growing to manhood in Ireland, he acquired a good common-school education at such odd times as the duties of the farm would permit. While still a young man he crossed the Atlantic for the New World, landing in New York City during the Spring of 1835, and for sometime worked in the Metropolitan City at SOcents per day. From thence he went to Savannah, Georgia, where he hired as a steamboat hand, thence to New York and Pittsburgh, from whence he took passage on the Wisconsin, the only steamboat then plying the Illinois River, for Pekin, then but a small place, that Mr. F^ decribes in the following manner : Landing from the boat I discoverd but few dwellings, mostly log cabins, on what is now the main street. The village probably contained, at this time about 25 inhabitants, mostly Frenchmen and Southerners. Mr. F. afterward made the acquaintance of Mr. Tharp, Wm. Mosley, and others, many of whom have passed the dark river. In 1851 Mr. F. joined an expedition enroute for California. After some months of weary travel he reached the golden coast, where he remained some 13 months and became quite successful as a miner. Returning to Tazewell Co., he again worked as a farm hand for a time. In 1852 he was married to Miss Bridget Ann Phcan, of Ireland. During this year Mr, F. leased property until enabled to purchase. He is now the owner of 280 acres, and one of the most generous of men. Of this marriage eight children were born, seven of whom are living - James, Thomas, AVilliam, Mary, Sarah, Ellen and Louisa.

Henry Fehrmann, farmer and stock raiser, sec. 27 ; P. O., Boynton. He was born in Germany, July 28, 1837. In his native land he followed farming and received a liberal education. In Julv, 1868, he crossed the Atlantic for the New World, landing in the city of New York. From that city he went to St. Louis, thence to Waterloo, Monroe Co., 111., where he worked as a farm hand for space of the two years. From there he went to Macoupin Co., and finally brought up in Tazewell Co., Boynton township, where, Oct. 5, 1874, he was married to Susan N. Rosenthall, by whom he has one child - Henry J.

John Freeman, deceased, was born in New York State. In his 22nd year he was united in marriage to Miss Margaret Fowler. Of this marriage eleven children were born, nine of whom are living. Early in life Mr. Freeman became a convert to religion, and his hospitable home was always open to all of God's people, and many happy meetings were held at his residence. Over 38 years ago this consistent Christian cast his lot with the Church of Christ. His lather was a soldier during the struggle for National Independence, in 1776. In religious matters John Freeman took a deep interest, and on all occasions it pleased him greatly to hear the word of God read, and it was his custom frequently to call his family around him and have some one read a chapter in the Bible, and lead in family prayer. Shortly before his death he called his family around him, and commending all to God, passed peacefully away. Thus ended the life of one whose eventful career furnishes a moral for the risino- generation. The funeral discourse was preached by the Rev. J. I. Judy, from Rev. xxii, 14. There were gathered together on this solemn occasion many relatives and friends of this veteran in the Lord's service, who attentively listened to the pastor, whose lips uttered a just tribute to one whose life had not been in vain.

Franklin Freeman, farmer, sec. 11 ; P. O., Hopedale. This wholesouled gentleman was born in Butler Co., O., Dec. 25, 1833. There he passed his youth. He then removed to Indiana where he was united in marriage with Miss Lucinda Bartholomew. Fourteen vears ago Mr. F. came to Boynton township, where he owns 80 acres of choice land. The marriage referred to has been blessed with four children, only two of whom are now living - Ashian and Effie M.

Joseph Gilchrist, was born in Logan Co., 111., Feb. 10, 1853. His father, James Gilchrist, was a prominent agriculturist of that county; was born in Scotland; a farmer by occupation, and was there married to Miss Jane Clark. In an early day he crossed the ocean for America, and directed his footsteps to Logan Co., where he became prominently identified with agricultural affairs. He died at the age of 58 years, universally respected. Mrs. G. died many years prior to her husband, and their remains lie interred in Union Church cemetery. Joseph grew to manhood in Logan Co., received a good common-school education and became identified with the farming and stock raising interests from his earliest years. At the age of 19 he was married to Miss INIartha Chenoweth, by whom he had three children - Charles E., Burtie W. and Pearl. In 1877 Mr. G. moved to Boynton and resides on sec. 25; P. O., Boynton. Jacob Hauler, farmer and stock raiser, sec. 9 ; P. O., Hopedale. Few have succeeded better in life than the genial gentleman whose name stands at the top of this column. He is a native of Germany, where he was born in 1824, and there passed his childhood, youth and grew to manhood. Attaining his majority he concluded to seek his fortune in the New World, and accordingly sailed for America, arriving during the. summer of 1845 in New York city, where he remained a short time, and then proceeded to Ohio where he procured employment as a farm hand, and there married, in 1853, Miss Mary Brenneman, a daughter of Daniel Brenneman, a well-known resident of this township. For seven years Mr. Hauter worked in Ohio, and then plunging still further westward, he located in Putnam county. 111., where he remained three years, when he moved and settled in Boynton township, where, in 1858, Mr. H. made his purchase of land in Illinois, consisting of 160 acres, now the property of Jacob Brenneman, Esq. At the present writing Mr. H. is the owner of 245 acres of land unequaled in this Western country, on which he erected four years ago a handsome farm residence.

Francis Ireland is numbered among the progressive agriculturists of the township. He was born in Salem township, AVarren Co., O., Sept. 18, 1830, where at the old farm homestead he also passed the days of his childhood and grew to manhood. During the winter seasons he succeeded in acquiring a good common school education, and then, perhaps, laid the foundation for future success in life. In 1853 he was united in marriage to Miss Ruth Coddington, daughter of Wm. Coddington, of Ohio. In 1856 Mr. C. concluded to move farther west and eventially located in Delavan township, this Co., and soon after moved to Boynton, where he erected a small frame building in which he suffered many inconveniences during the winter, sometimes finding nearly as much snow inside the dwelling as outside. The fare at this time, humble as it was, however, was enjoyed by the family and the occasional visitor. Times proved very discouraging, and not until the flush war times did Mr. I. begin to prosper in his new home, since then he has been extremely fortunate. They have four children - Florence, William F., Johnathan and Monroe. Mr. I. holds the position of Road Com., and takes a deep interest in educational matters.

Thomas J. Ireland, farmer and stock raiser, sec. 10 ; P. O., Boynton. Thomas Ireland was born iji Ohio, May 17, 1832. He is the eldest son of James Ireland, a native of Virginia, and who moved to Ohio during its early settlement, and where he united his fortunes to Miss Naiicy Coyle, by whom he had eight children. James Ireland became an exceedingly prosperous farmer in Ohio, where, in the year 1852, he was laid at rest. His estimable wife still survives and resides in Indiana. Thomas left Ohio in his twentieth year and made his way to Shelby Co., Ind., where he turned his attention to farming. In 1 855 he united in marriage with Miss Ann Coddington, daughter of Wm. Coddington of Warren Co., O. Of this marriage seven children were born, only three of whom are living, whose names are - Allen, James and Cora. Ten years ago Mr. I. disposed of 120 acres of land he had in Indiana and set out for Illinois, and located in this township, where he has since been identified with the farming interests. Mrs. Ireland died in 1870, and was laid away in Orendorff cemeterv. In 1874 Mr. I. was united in marriage to Mrs. E. Pultz, of Ind., by whom he had two children - Katie and Edgar.

Frederick A. Intzi, farmer and stock raiser, sec. 2 ; P. O., Hopedale. The above named gentleman, as is well known, keeps pace with the present times, and is a progressive farmer of Boynton township. He was born in Butler Co., Ohio, on the 26th of Dec. 1841, where he lived upon the farm homestead until attaining his majority _, when he became employed as clerk in a general furnishing store, and at Dayton, Ohio, he ran, so to speak, a Yankee notion wagon. In 1868 he acee})ted a situation as traveling agent for farm machinery. He remained with this firm but a short time, as the game year found hini a resident of this township, where he was united in marriage during the autumn to Miss Amelia Brenneman, a daughter of Daniel Brenneman, whom we have mentioned, by whom he had five children - Laura, William, Augusta, Edward and Emma. Since his residence here INIr. Intzi has acquired a property of 80 acres brought to a high state of cultivation through an admirable system of under-drainage.

J. I. Judy, minister of the Gospel and farmer, sec. 25 ; P. O., Boynton. The courteous gentleman whose name heads this biography is a native of ISIackinaw, Tazewell Co., where he was born on the 16th of Sept., 1832. His father Daniel H. Judy, a well-remembered and prominent citizen of this county, is worthy of more than a passing notice, although owing to a limited space we cannot enter into particulars of his eventful and energetic life. He was born in Greene Co., Ohio, and made his way to Tazewell Co. prior to the deep snow. Like all pioneers he suifered many inconveniences, but made the best of his humble lot and lived an exemplary Christian life. He was one of the original members of the Hittle Grove Christian Church. At an advanced age, he resides on his farm near Atlanta, Logan Co.

James I. Judy, whose sketch we here append, passed his boyhood days amid pioneer associations, and at the early age of 16 w^as convinced of the necessity of leading a Christian life, and since this period has been proniinently identified with the Church and Sunday-school. In 1853, he crossed the plains for the gold fields of California, and after a year of moderate success returned to his old home in Illinois; during the autumn of 1854 moved to Atlanta, and entered into the mercantile business. During this time he was married to Mary E. Campbell, daughter of G. R. Campbell of Ky. In 1855 Mr. J. settled on his present form, and here he has lived and labored for the salvation of souls during all those years, and no one meets with more universal respect than Elder Judy. In order to show to some extent the estimation in which he is held, we copy the following : ^'A visit to Haw Grove and a visit to the Sunday-schooL'' - After school the house began filling with people. Elder Judy preached his last sermon for the old year. We never heard a more beautiful address than he gave his attentive listeners. At night he bade his congregation larewell, although we know it is not final. He has won to himself a place in the hearts of the people that cannot be filled by another. He is accomplishing much good in the world. Surely his life would seem just begun, and God in his infinite goodness and mercy seemed to be blessing him in every way, and tlie sincere wishes of the people are for his future success and return to Haw Grove."

Michael Judy, farmer and stock raiser, sec. 26 ; P. O., Boynton. Mr. Judy ranks among the more liberal fiirmers of this township. He was born on the old homestead of his parents, John and Christiana Judy, near Hittle Grove, April 22, 1837. John Judy, the head of the family was a native of Ohio, and a farmer by occupa- tion. While a young; man he wended his way to 111. and was among the first to settle at Hittle Grove, this county. This period of time, about 1826, marked an era in the settlement of this county. Indians were then a numerous and powerful people and tliose few adventuresome settlers suffered many inconveniences from their depredations. In subsequent years, Mr, J. who is mentioned in our township history became a prosperous and respected farmer. He died in Aug. 1861, in the 65th year of his age and his ashes repose amid the scenes of his early labors. Michael grew to manhood in Hittle township, received a common school education, or in other words a log-cabin education. In Livingston Co. Feb. 8, 1858, Mr. Judy was united in marriage to Miss Elvira Steers, a daughter of Hugh Steers, of Ky. They have five children - Charles, John, Christian, Hartzel and Hattie. Eleven years ago Mr. J. moved to Boynton where he purchased 250 acres of land.

S. A. Knott is the oldest son of Wm. Knott, one of the original pioneers and wealthy men of the county. He was born in Randolph Co., Ind., 1847. He was but five years of age when his parents settled in Delavan township, this county, where they remained some eight years, when they came to this township, where our subject attained his majority. In February, 1862, he mas united in marriage to Mrs. Sarah Jane Pence, daughter of Thomas Pence, of Ohio. Of this marriage two children were born - Viola R. and Maggie Cordelia. Mrs. Knott passed from earth on the 26th of Sept., 1865. In 1869, on the 4th of March, Mr. K. united his fortunes with Miss Clarissa Ellen Morley, daughter of 'Squire Morley, a well-known resident of this county, and who has held numerous offices of trust and respectability. Of this marriage four children have been born - Elmer, Ernest, Troy E. and Elizabeth A. Mr. K. is engaged in farming on sec. 13; P. O., Delavan.

Nicholas Martin, farmer and stock raiser, sec. 3 ; P. O., Hopedale. The above named gentleman is worthy of more than a passing notice. He was born in France on the 15th of March, 1834. Growing to manhood upon the farm homestead he acquired a liberal education. At the age of 20 he concluded to better his fortune in America, and accordingly sailed for this country during the spring of 1854. Landin New York city he remained there but a short time, when he made his way to Illinois, locating in the town of Pekin, this Co., and first worked as a farm hand. In 1855 he was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Lytwiler, by whom he has five children - Barbara, Joseph, Mary M., Emma and Catherine.

Daniel B. Meeker, farmer, sec. 1 ; P. O., Delavan. Mr. M. is a well-known resident and prominent farmer of Tazewell Co. He was born in Essex Co., N. J., on the 19th of August, 1819. His father, Benjamin Meeker, was a native of Ncav Jersey, as was also Phoebe, his wife. In 1859 he first set foot in Tazewell Co. He has passed the greater portion of his life in the AYest. He is well known for liberality and kindly manners, and )\q,b been financially successful

In 1841, while in New Jersey, he was united in marriage to Miss Eliza, daughter of John N. Baldwin, of N. J., and now a wealthy citizen of Delavan township, and ujiwards of 80 years of age. Six children blessed the union of Mr. Meeker and Miss Baldwin - Celia, born Sept. 3, 1845; Anna K., born June 6, 1853; Charles B., Dec. 22, 1855; E. W., Nov. 25, 1859; Harvey C, Dec. 20, 1862, and John E., Sept. 23, 1866.

Peter J. Nafziger was born in Germany Aug. 31, 1829, and is the oldest son of Jacob N., a farmer in his native land. During the infancy of Peter the elder Naifzigcr thought he could better his fortunes in America. He accordingly crossed the Atlantic, during the spring of 1831. He landed with his flimily in New York city, and from there moved to Ohio, where he resided six years. He then moved to Woodford Co., 111., where he now lives, and is in the far decline of life, being over four score years of age. Peter grew to manhood in Woodford Co., where he acquired a common school education. In 1854 he was united in marriage to Miss Magdalena Naffzigcr, by whom he has eight cliildren - John W., Jacob A., Henry E., Samuel, Joseph, Daniel, Kate and Barbara. Eight years ago Mr. N. disposed of his property in Woodford Co. and came to Boynton, where, on sec. 1, he owns 80 acres of valuable land. P. O., Boynton.

Andrew Peters, farmer and stock raiser, sec. 2 ; P. O., Hopedale. Andrew Peters was born in Pa. on the 23d of April, 1826. During his infancy his parents moved to Ohio, Guernsey Co., where young Andrew passed his boyhood upon the farm homestead. In 1854 he was united in marriage to Miss N. Egger, a daughter of Samuel Egger. In 1858 Mr. Peters came to Illinois, settling in Tazewell Co., Boynton township, where he bought 120 acres in Boynton and adjoining township.

John E. Powell, farmer and stock raiser, sec. 15; P. O., Boynton. He is a native of Logan Co., 111., where he was born May 19, 1838 ; is the oldest son of Wm. Powell, a native of Green Co., O. He acquired a liberal education, and while a young man made his way to this county, where he taught school and secured employment as clerk. While residing in this county he married Eliza, daughter of Sanford Quisenbery, who was among the early settlers of Tazewell. In 1850 he settled 'in Logan Co., where he held many responsible local offices, and where he passed the remainder of his life. John passed his boyhood in Logan Co.' Left an orphan at the age of fourteen he came to Tazewell Co., where he has since lived, with the exception of some years spent as a farm hand in Logan Co. In 1862 he purchased 160 acres of land in this township and is now the owner of 375 acres.

Bryan Reardon, fiirmer and stock dealer, sec. 22 ; P. O., Boynton ; is a native of Ireland. He was born July 14, 1836, and is the oldest son of Daniel and Margaret (Keefe) Reardon. Daniel Reardon was a farmer in Ireland, where he married Margaret Keefe, who bore him nine children. In 1850 the family, inchuling Bryan, sailed for America, and in due course of time landed in New York city, from whence they proceeded to Providence, R. I., where they remained until 1857, when they came to this township. One year previous, however, our subject came. He was then unmarried, and secured employment as a farm hand. In 1860, with other members of the family, he purchased 360 acres of land. In 1867 he was united in marriage to Miss Anna Fleming, daughter of Edward Fleming, a native of Ireland. Thev have five children - Edward, Michael, Daniel, Bryan and Wene. For several years Mr. R. held the position of Town Clerk, and for ten years Justice of the Peace.

Capt John Reardon, sec. 14; P. O., Delavau. Capt. R., a well and favorably known agriculturist of this county, is a native of Thomastown, in the County Tipperary, Ireland, wliere he was born in 1840. His father, Daniel Reardon, crossed the Atlantic in 1850, and eventually settled in Rhode Island, where our subject passed his boyhood days, and became employed in one of the numerous cotton mills that dot the little State. In 1875, John, Bryan and Thomas Reardon directed their footsteps to Illinois, and located at Delavan. Here they became employed as farm hands, and in time became farmers. In August, 1862, when the great civil war had reached a fever heat, Mr. R., true to his adopted country, and the stars and stripes, assisted in the organization of Co. H, 115th 111. Inf. Although he enlisted as a private, he was appointed, at organization, second lieutenant. Proceeding to the front, he participated in some the great battles of national renown. He was promoted to first lieutenant, and soon to captain. After the war he returned to this county, where he has since resided. Although of a retiring disposition, he was once nominated for the office of sheriff of this county, and was twice elected Supervisor. In 1870 he married Miss Mary Murphy. They have three children, Nellie, Geniere and John.

Daniel Reardon, farmer and stock raiser, sec. 14 ; P. O., Delavan ; was born in the county of Tipperary, Ireland. During his childhood his parents moved to America, as elsewhere given, and settled in Rhode Island, eventually settling in Tazewell Co. Here young Reardon grew to manhood, and received a good common school education. In 1860, since the decease of his father, and the necessary division of property, our subject received 240 acres, in the township. In drawing this sketch to a close, we can say of the Reardon boys, that few in Tazewell Co. have succeeded better in life.

Samuel Roles, although not among the earlier residents of Tazewell Co., is worthy of more fhan a passing notice. He was born in Luzerne Co., Pa., in 1818. Of his father, James Roles, but little is known. He was an Englisman by birth, and on moving to this country settled in Pennsylvania, where he married Miss- Esther Miller, by whom he had 13 children, of whom the subject of this sketch was the sixth child. Growing to manhood in Pennsylvania Samuel early became apprenticed to learn the blacksmithing trade, and subsequently worked as a journeyman for many years. In 1841 he was married to Miss Surah, dauij;hter of George Davison, of Pennsylvania. On moving to this county, which he did in 1854, he farmed for one year, when he purchased a shop, and when his skill as a workman became known he received a large patronage. In 1859 he received the iirst jiremium at the Logan County Fair, for skill disylayed as a nail worker and horse shoer. At the present writing he resides on his farm, on sec. 23 ; P. O., Boynton.

Lewis Scarborough, farmer and stock raiser, sec. 15; P. O., Delavan; was born in New Jersey, in 1836, his father, Thomas Scarborough, was also a native of New Jersey. He was a farmer by occupation, and married Miss Charity Burroughs, a daughter of Andrew Burroughs, bv whom he had 9 children, 6 of whom are living - Mary Ann, who married John Fish, and now resides in Pennsylvania; Wilson T., who married Miss Sarah Hunt, and now resides' in Trenton, Jersey Co. ; Howell, who married Miss Rebecca Dallas, and now resides in Mercer Co., N. J. ; Comelia, who married Francis Duffield, and now resides in Trenton ; Jacob, who married Mary Servas, and resides in Pennsylvania ; Lewis grew to manhood in Xew Jersey, where he followed farming, and where he was united in marriage in the year 1860, to Miss Margaret Snedeker, a daughter of Jas. W. Snedeker. In 1871 Mr. S. moved to Pennsylvania, where he resided until his removal to Boynton township, Tazewell county, two years ago.

John Scoff, farmer and stock raiser, sec. 22 ; P. O., Boynton. He was born at Delavan, Tazewell Co., 111., May 2, 1850; is the oldest son of John and Mary Scott, natives of Scotland and Ohio, respectively. George grew to manh<iod in this county ; received a good common school education ; in 1874 was married to Miss Alice Paul, daughter of John and Mary Paul. They have one child - Clara, born in March, 1877.

Kennard Siailei/, farmer and stock raiser, sec. 28 ; P. O., Boynton; was born in Adams Co., Ohio, on the 23d of October, 1834. He is the oldest son of Nathaniel and Fliza (Shields) Smiley. His father was born in Kentucky, and in an early day moved to Ohio, where he married and there })assed the remainder of his days. Kennard grew to manhood in Ohio, where he received a common school education. While employed upon the farm homestead, the war broke out and Mr. Smiley enlisted in Co. E, 179th Ohio Infantry, for one year, proceeded to the front and participated in the famous battle of Nashville; was honorably discharged when the war closed ; returned to Ohio, where he remained but a short time, as the same year of his return to his Ohio home found him a resident of Tazewell Co., 111. Here he was married, Oct. 3, 1872, to Miss Catharine Sparts. Their children are William and Franklin. During the autumn of 1870, Mr. S. purchased his present farm.

John Luter, who is now upwards of eighty years of age and a resident of this township. John grew to manhood in his native land and where, owing to the excellent government of the German people, he received a liberal education at such times as the duties of the farm would permit. For a short time he served in the regular army of Bavaria. On the 6th day of Nov. 1851, John Luter and parents landed in the city of New York and from thence came direct to Tazewell Co. where he has since resided, engaged in agricultural pursuits in Boynton township. He own 240 acres of land the greater portion of which is tile-drained. In 1837 Mr. L. was married to Magdalena Gute by whom he has eight children - John, Andrew, Crist, Jacob, Amos, Barbara, Lizzie and Susan.

William H. Woolf, farmer, sec. 22; P. O., Boynton. He was born in West Chester Co. N. Y. Oct. 25, 1837. He is the third child of a family of four. His father, Andrew Woolf, was a native of N. Y. and a farmer by occupation and married in that State to Miss Mary Devoe. Wm. passed his boyhood in New York State and on attaining his majority came to 111. and located in this township, where he has since resided. In 1867 he was united in marriage to Miss Mary Reed, daughter of John and Rebecca Reed, by whom he has two children - Letitia and James.

William Wooters, was born in Muskingum Co., O., July 24, 1828. He is the second son of Nathan and Deborah Wooters. Nathan Wooters was born in Maryland and moved to Ohio in an early day, where he followed farming, and moved to Indiana about the year 1835, wUere our subject grew to manhood. In 1850 he made his way to Illinois, and located in this county, where he has since resided, following agricultural pursuits. In 1857 he was married to Miss Isabel Rouse, daughter of Peter and Elizabeth Rouse. Of this marriage three children were born. Mrs. W. died Sept. 17, 1865. In 1876 he was married to Miss Mary Lightwine. They have two children - Nellie M. and Walter. Mr. W. is a farmer and stock raiser, resides on sec. 29 ; P. O., Boynton.

George Zehr, farmer and stock raiser, sec. 2 ; P. O., Hopedale. George was born in Germany in an early day, probably about 1813. He crossed the Atlantic for the New World, and first located in New York State. Afterwards he moved to Ohio, where he was united in marriage to Miss Barbara Lytwiler, a daughter of Joseph Lytwiler. In 1846 tie located in Green Valley, Tazewell Co., thence removed to Hopedale township, where he rented farm property. He is now the owner of over 300 acres, and takes a leading position among the farmers of the county. Of the marriage above referred to five children are living - Joseph, Christopher, Malinda, Barbara and Peter. Christopher, who has passed the years of his life in this county, was born in 1855; married in 1877, Miss Anna Kaufman, a daughter of Christian Kaufman, of Germany.

was born in Fountain Co., Ind., on the 8th of October, 1847. His father, Henry Zumwalt, deceased, was born in Harrison Co., Ky., in 1810. In an early day he moved to Indiana, where he was united in marriage to Miss Nancy Davidson. Their children were - Wm., John, Daniel, George, Levi, Edwin, Mary, Emma, Sarah, Hattie, Alice and Susannah. In 1851 Mr. Z. moved to Tazewell Co., where he purchased farm property. He died in May, 1875, and was laid at rest in the Patterson cemetery. A handsome monument marks the spot. It should be stated in this sketch that Mr. Z. was united in marriage three times. His first marriage we have mentioned. His second wife was Miss Elizabetli Pearson; his third wife Mary Dilly. James and John own the farm property, which consists of some 500 acres. James entered the army at the last call for troops. John enlisted for three years.

The following gentlemen have served the township since its organization in the various official capacities named, with the year of holding the position :