Buckeye Township (part 1 of 2)

Buckeye Township

Previous to the adoption of the act empowering the incorporation of townships. Buckeye Township was known as Center Precinct, which comprehended the territory that has since been subdivided into Buckeye, Dakota, Harlem and Lancaster Townships. This wajS the case as late as August, 1838, for, on the 6th of that month, an election was held at the house of Josiah Clingman, in Center Precinct, for State officers, at which John Edwards received twentyfive votes for Governor, and Stephen A. Douglas seven votes for Congress ; Ira

The earliest settlement made in the present township of which there are any data to deduce conclusions, was during the year 1835. In the spring, John Goddard came to the southern portion of the township, and, in the fall of the same year, David Jones and Levi Lucas came, the former making claim to a large tract of land contiguous to what is now known as Buckeye Center, where he built a cabin and began houfekeeping. There was little beyond the hope of what the future might give birth to to encourage the lonely lives of these pioneers, yet they accepted the gauge of life as they found it, and survived to realize many of the promises reserved for after years. In addition to these, George Trotter, Richard Parriott and Henry and William Hollenback came about this time.

In 1836, the roster of inhabitants was increased by the arrival of a few families, including William Robey, who had made a claim there the previous year, Jehu Pile, Andrew St. John, Ira, Job and Daniel Holly and others. Parrott and Pile located near the present town of Cedarville, while the balance entered claims in the northwestern part of the township.

In 1837, the influx of population was somewhat greater. Among those who established themselves in Buckeye that year were Dr. Thomas Van Valzah, J. Tharp, G. W. Clingman, Jackson Richart, Lazarus Snyder, Jacob S. Brown, Joseph Green, and some few more. Dr. Van Valzah purchased the mill claim of John Goddard and Barton Jones, and built what - has since been known as the Cedar Creek Mills, also a log cabin for his family. The mill was started in November, 1837, John Fisher turning the bolt, and so continuing until the 1st of January, 1838. In that year, a sudden rise in the creek overflowed and temporarily destroyed the dam, when Fisher's occupation was gone, the power thereafter being furnished by the medium since employed.

In the month of May, 1837, occurred the first death in the township, being that of Richard Parriott, Sr. Robert Jones and A. Richart laid him out after death, and he was buried near Buckeye Center in a coffin fashioned by Robert Jones, the Rev. Mr. Harcott officiating at the grave.

Among those who came in 1838, was James McGhee, Adrian Lucas and others, and it was in this year that the first marriage known to have taken place in Buckeye was recorded. Robert Jones and Mary Herlacher were united in indissoluble bonds at the residence of Dr. Van Valzah, the Rev. Mr. McKean being the clergyman. In those days, pretentious weddings, with the accompaniments of bridal presents, tours, etc., were unknown factors of social life, and not generally indulged. The bridegroom escorted his wife to the cabin he had erected, as above mentioned, and began his dual existence without the accessories thereto now deemed indispensable to prosperity and happiness. On the 23d of June following, David Jones was born to the couple, the first birth of record in the township. John Murdaugh and Benjamin Bennett were also among the arrivals this year.

In 1840, the population began once more to increase. The Pottawatomies and Winnebagoes still flourished in the vicinity, and had their camp at the mouth of Richland Creek ; but their presence deterred no one from venturing into the neighborhood and setting up a home. J. B. Clingman came this year, as did also Philip Reitzell and George Reitzell, who settled near where Buena Vista now is; Henry Wohllford, John Fryebarger, Richard Parriott, Jr., Franklin Scott, George Ilgen, who afterward laid out Cedarville, a man named Eddy, etc. Indeed, 1840, was the golden year of Buckeye Township, so far as the increase in population and development of resources were concerned. Farms were opened, homes prepared, and, notwithstanding the " hard life " that was imposed upon settlers, the county and township began to fill up quite rapidly.

In those primitive times, the inhabitants depended mainly upon their guns, and skill in the use, for meat, which was obtained from the herds of deer and flocks of prairie chickens which were to be found in the timber. Flour was almost an unknown quantity, and until mills were erected on water-courses the settlers were obliged to obtain that commodity either at Galena or Wolf Creek. When this was impossible, they scraped corn on what were known as " gritters," by which a coarse-grained meal was obtained, from which " dodgers " were baked, and the pangs of hunger mitigated.

Soon after 1840, the conveniences of life became more accessible. The rough, unsatisfactory character of the mills gave place to handsome buildings and improved machinery. The population increased annually, and, by the time that Cedarville was laid out, numbered many families, with the names of which the earlier comers were not familiar. The township and its towns are in a prosperous condition, with a population estimated at about 1,800, and with promise of future wealth and usefulness.

the chief town in Buckeye Township, and a point presenting many attractive features for residence and business purposes, is located six miles north of Freeport, and contiguous to the line dividing Buckeye from Harlem and Lancaster Townships. Its situation is singularly beautiful, presenting every variety of landscape to the artistic eye, without the quality of sameness which palls by its very monotony. Cedar Creek courses an uneven and eccentric way to the east, rugged hills rise in prominence to the north, while, on the east and west, orchards, meadows and fields flowing with ripening grain, are sights which greet the eye of the visitor in that perfect of perfect months, laughing June.

When the earlier settlers of what was at first known as Center Precinct made their advent into future Buckeye Township, they, as a rule, tarried about future Cedarville, not only impressed with the beauty of the scenery, but the advantages it then presented for all desirous of establishing a home. Notwithstanding these patent advantages the pioneer pilgrims into this part of Stephenson County, tarried not, but pursued their wanderings in the van of those competing with the Star of Empire and Greeley's young man, for a claim further west, and it was not until 1837 that any movement was inaugurated, which finally culminated, though not until twelve years after, in the surveying and laying-out of the present town. In that year, Dr. Thomas Van Valzah, as has already been stated, established himself in Center Precinct, raised a log cabin for the protection of his growing family, built a saw-mill and laid the foundation for the abundance of thrift to-day visible to the traveler, as also the resident, in all directions. The old mill has passed through a varied experience since those days of primitive wants and unpretentious inhabitants, and still, in parts, stands a wreck of its former magnificence, at a distance from the spot whereon its birth was celebrated. The territory allotted to its occupation, long since yielded possession to the Cedarville mills, revised and corrected editions of the saw and grist mills, with which Dr. Van Valzah, nearly half a century, ago, sought patronage in contributing to the necessities as also the luxuries of his neighbors.

In 1849, George Ilgen, an early settler in the township, first conceived the idea of establishing the present town of Cedarville. He had emigrated to the

West years before from Pennsylvania, and made claim to a quarter-section of land, on -which the town, in part, now stands, but removed to a distant part of the county and engaged in farming. About the year mentioned, he procured a survey of the town site, laid off streets, town lots and other landed appurtenances appropriate to the object, and waited the rush of purchasers of his realty. Marcus Montelius oflSciated as surveyor, and, beyond the log cabin and mill erected by Dr. Van Valzah, no other edifices were to be] seen in the vicinity. For some months the tide of emigration failed to realize his possibly too sanguine expectations, and it was not for two years thereafter that buildings began to add the spice of variety to the scenes of woodland and prairie visible on all sides. Some time in 1850, James Canfield established a brick-kiln two miles west of the prospective village, and from this date improvements proved other than exceptions.

Samuel Sutherland built a brick house on the main street which still stands, being occupied as the store of Richart & Son, also the post office. Francis Knauss put up a frame residence and tin-shop ; James Benson, a brick store, and Jacob Latshaw, building a tavern, enacted the role of the village boniface. It should be observed that the first cabin covered for occupation within the precincts of the town site, was that finished and occupied by George Seyler. David Clements erected a brick house along in 1851, as also did Dr. Bucher, (the latter still standing opposite the post office), and lived there for years, his widow now occupying the premises. During the years 1850-52, improvement was rapid, but after these years there was a falling-off, no marked effort being made to render the village either attractive or populous. In 1854, the handsome private residence of John H. Addams was erected, and in 1858, the mill owned by the same gentleman.

There are four churches - the Methodist, completed in 1849, of brick ; the German Reformed and Lutheran, in 1854, also of brick ; the Evangelical, of brick, in 1859, and the Presbyterian, a handsome frame with an attractive and well-proportioned steeple, in 1876.

In 1878, improvements began to appear again and prosperity to once more "boom." J. W. Henney & Co. began the manufacture of carriages in a large frame warehouse occupying a prominent corner in the eastern portion of the town, and Reel & Seyler put up a commodious establishment north of Henney's carriage depot for the manufacture of middings purifiers. Since that date, however, improvements have hardly kept pace with the times ; the village remaining a quiet, prosperous, attractive resort, presenting very few, if any, of the features which entice with the glare and dissipation of her more populous neighbors, yet furnishing all the inducements for health and modest ambition to be found in numberless villages which dot the landscape of Northern Illinois.

The school system in force is the same as has obtained throughout the county, affording a complete and ready means for obtaining an education substantial and comprehensive ; the religious interests are large and generously supported ; the manufacturing establishments afford employment to a number of laborers, and the surrounding country pays a liberal tribute to the maintenance of its commercial and other interests.

Cedarville contains a population estimated at 400, and has not yet been incorporated, being under the form of government appropriated to township organizations.

The cause of education found expression in Buckeye long before the metes and bounds of that township had been legally defined. A school was opened three miles northeast of Cedarville in 1836, but it was not until ten years later that the town itself succeeded in providing the young idea with comfortable accommodations wherein to pursue knowledge, unattended by the difficulties which' invariably accompany every initial effort in that behalf.

In 1846, subscriptions were made for the organization of a school, and the erection of a building, the latter to be located near the burying-ground. The efforts primarily undertaken were far from encouraging, but finally these succeeded through the influence and patronage of the Clingmans, John H. Addams and other enterprising residents, and the schoolhouse, a one-story frame, 20x30, was completed and ready for service.

A Mr. Chadwick, now residing in La Salle, and Miss Julia Putnam were the first teachers who sought to elevate the youthful generation of scholars coming from far and near to partake of the mental pabulum furnished in those days. Among these were George, Mary and Caroline Clingman, the Young children, the Treastor children, Wynkoops juniors, and many others whose names have been forgotten by the limited number who were familiar therewith thirtyfour years ago. This school was operated with gratifying success until 1853. By that time, the daily attendance became so numerous as to necessitate larger quarters, and the basement of the Lutheran Church, then completed, and awaiting the erection of the superstructure, was obtained, and used for school purposes being so used until 1855.

Soon after taking possession of the last-named quarters, the School Directors decided upon building the present brick edifice, and inaugurated measures looking to that end. Their first effort was directed toward the obtaining of funds, which were secured by the levy of a tax on resources not realized, that is, by anticipating the tax for schools due two years from that time. This was accomplished without opposition, and $2,000 rewarded this extra-legal proceeding. With the amount thus obtained, the brick building since occupied, being 55x30, and two stories high, was completed and turned over for use in 1855, the lower room being reserved for school uses, while the upper part was used as a public hall. In 1857 the hall was reconstructed and fitted up for a private school, taught by Miss Gorham, since married to Col. H. C. Forbes, who remained in charge until 1865, when she gave place to a successor, who continued the guardian of ambitious youth for a brief period, when the private venture was abandoned, and the entire building opened to public patronage. This is now known as District School No. 5, furnishing a good common-school education to an average daily attendance of ninety pupils, and is governed by a Board of Directors, consisting of J. H. Addams, Joseph P. Reel and Jacob Sill. Two teachers are employed at an annual cost of $500, which is obtained by taxation, and the school property represents a valuation of about $2,500.

Religious

Methodist Ohurch. - The followers of Wesley first manifested their presence in Buckeye Township as early as 1839, and were composed of the families of residents who have since been included among the most substantial and enterprising of those who have materially contributed to the building-up of the county and the State. These comprehended Josiah Clingman and family, G. W. Clingman and family, Barton and Ira Jones and families, William Robey and family, A. K. Richart and others.

Prior to 1849, the communicants were dependent upon the visits of circuit riders, and worshiped in the log schoolhouse near the branch, at private houses, and such other points as convenience or necessity dictated.

In 1849, the Methodist Church at Cedarville was commenced, and completed in 1850, since when the pious residents of the township have rejoiced in a local habitation, as also name. The edifice is of brick, one story high, 35x40, and, though completed in 1850, was not ready for use until a year later, when the dedicatory services were held and the auditorium formally opened.

Its cost is stated to have been nearly ^1,400, and services are held on alternate Sundays, the Rev. H. Wells, Pastor, officiating, dividing his labors between the congregations of Cedarville and Dakota.

The Presbyterian Church - Of Cedarville, was organized in 1872, with John Coates, Pascal and Mrs. Wright, Simon Yerger, John Thomas, Nancy and Elizabeth Boles, George Thompson and James Wilson as charter members.

Immediately upon the organization being perfected, the association procured accommodation in the Methodist Church for worship, remaining there for two years, when a move was made to the Lutheran Church, which was occupied conjointly with the Lutherans for a similar period. In 1876, it was decided to erect a church for the sect, and the congregation labored so effectively that before the year closed the present handsome structure was completed, at a cost of $2,600, and taken possession of. The edifice is commodious, built of frame, and by far the most attractive church, architecturally speaking, to be seen in the village.

The following Pastors have ofiiciated since the society was founded : The Revs. A. March and E. Ross, 1872 ; C. Elliott, 1873, after which, and until 1875, transient ministers filled the pulpit ; L. Mitchell, 1875 ; John Irwin, the present incumbent, 1879.

Evangelical Association. - This religious organization was established in Buckeye at an early day, where it has increased in numbers and influence in a remarkable degree. Prior to 1856, the class worshiped in the schoolhouse and at the residences of members, prominent among whom were the families of Benjamin Hess, Christine Auman, David Neidigh, Benjamin Levan, Robert Sedam, William Vore, Henry Mark, Jacob Sills and others. In 1856, the needs of the society for a house of worship influenced the appointment of a committee of arrangements and preparations to be made in that behalf Lots were purchased in the southeastern part of town, of Sophia Otto and George Hgen, contracts concluded for labor on the church proper, and the edifice erected of brick, during 1856. It is a handsome building 40x50, appropriately furnished, supplied with an organ, and cost, ready for occupation, $3,000.

The first services, it is believed, were conducted by the Rev. Levi Tobias, who remained in charge some years, and has been succeeded at intervals by the following Pastors : The Revs. Joseph Snell, H. Messner, A. Swartz, C. G. Kleinicht, David Kramer, and W. W. Shuler, the present incumbent.

Lutheran and Reform Church - Was organized by the Lutherans on the lUh of October, 1850, with fifteen members. Services were held by the Lutherans and German Reformed congregations, jointly, in the schoolhouse in Cedarville, until about 1852, when the present church edifice was contracted for. It was completed during the same year and occupied, but its formal dedication was postponed until some years later.

The church is of brick, 40x55, handsomely furnished throughout, supplied with an organ, and cost, when completed ready for occupancy, $3,000.

The following Lutheran Pastors have officiated since the church was first established : The Revs. G. J. Donmeyer, E. Miller, J. Stoll, A. B. Niddleswarth and B. F. Pugh. The congregation at present numbers thirty members.

Cedarville Cemetery Association - Was incorporated July 14, 1855, by M. Montelius, John H. Addams, Josiah Clingman, Peter Woodring and John Wilson, for the purpose of purchasing and caring for lands, etc., for the burial of the dead. The association at once organized by the election of Josiah Clingman, President, with John H. Addams as Secretary and Treasurer. Three acres of ground were procured, which were surveyed, platted and divided into lots, intersected by avenues at regular intervals. The plat was approved and recorded by the Board of Supervisors at the meeting of that body, in March, 1859, and is now under a board of officers, of which Jackson Richart is President, and John H. Addams, Secretary and Treasurer. The grounds are handsomely laid out, ornamented with varieties of forest trees, shrubberies and flowers, and contain a number of elaborately finished monuments.

Purifier Manufactory. - The invention of a middlings purifier, of superior excellence, is of recent date, and is due to the genius of Joseph P. Reel, a resident of Cedarville, and head of the firm of Reel & Seyler. In 1877, these gentlemen erected a building on Main street, and, having perfected the patent, began to manufacture the machine, which is rapidly attaining an extensive demand both in America and Europe.

The building cost $1,100 to finish, wherein the firm employ six hands, at a weekly compensation of $60 ; turn out one hundred machines annually, and do a business of $30,000 per year.

McCammons Carriage Factory. - This enterprise is of recent date, and was established by J. B. McCammon, April 1, 1880, in the premises formerly occupied by J. W. Henney & Co., who removed to Freeport, thus affording an opportunity for enterprise and industry to build up a large business. Mr. McCammon employs five hands, at a weekly cost of $35, and will do a business this year (1880) of $10,000. His manufacture includes every variety of buggy, spring and lumber wagons.

Carriage Factory of John Shaffer. - Established in 1859, in Cedarville. During the year 1875, Mr. Shaffer purchased the shop of J. W. Henney, and has constantly done a large and annually increasing business.

Cedarville Flour Mills - Among the oldest establishments of the kind in the county, owe their origin to Dr. Thomas Van Valzah, who put up a sawmill near 'the site of the present building, in 1837. The affair was of the simplest pattern, and during the following year he increased his responsibilities by the addition of a grist-mill, supplied with one run of buhrs and a pair of " choppers." Dr. Van Valzah retained control until 1840, when he sold to David Neidigh, who, in turn, disposed of the property to Conrad Epley and John W. Shuey. These gentlemen held the title until 1844, when it became vested in J. H. Addams for a consideration of $4,400. In 1846, Mr. Addams rebuilt the mill, added two run of stone and otherwise improved the venture at a cost of $4,000. These were operated until 1858, when the present mill supplied the place of its pioneer predecessor, under the direction of Mr. Addams, and still remains. The building is of frame, three stories high, 36x54, supplied with three run of stones, and cost, complete, $10,000. It has capacity of turning out 100 barrels of flour daily, and the investment represents a valuation of 115,000.

Miscellaneous

CedarviUe Library. - As already stated, this library was established thirtyfour years ago, when the village of CedarviUe was known as Cedar Creek Mills, and when its patrons, if less numerous, were more choice in their selections than the reading public of to-day.

The association was organized early in the spring of 1846, and placed under a Board of Trustees, consisting of the following-named gentlemen : John H. Addams, A. B. Clingman, A. W. Lucas, Josiah Clingman and William Irvin. In May of that year, the purchase of books was commenced and the same placed on shelves in a room in the residence of John H. Addams, accessible to all who desired to avail themselves of the privileges thus afforded, which are still continued on the spot of their origin. The collection is made up of standard works, including those of Gibbon, Macauley, Prescott, Hume, etc., history being the basis, and comparatively little of a character calculated to entertain without improving.

The library, which has been a source of infinite pleasure and instruction to the residents of CedarviUe and vicinity, is still in active operation, with a large number of volumes waiting the requisition of patrons to contribute to their edification.

Independent Band of CedarviUe - A musical association organized on the 8th of July, 1873, with the following members and ofl&cers: 0. P. Cromley, 0. P. Wright, Ashley Barber, John Wright, John W. Henney, J. B. McCammon, Charles Bockey, E. J. Benethum, Samuel Barber, John Oswald and W. M. Clingman ; George W. Barber, President ; A. W. Templeton. Secretary, and Henry Richart, Treasurer.

These members furnish instrumental music on all occasions, when their services are required, and meet for practice on Monday and Thursday evenings.

Post Office. - The first post office established in the village was located at Cedar Creek Mills, about 1841 or 1842, with George Reitzell as Postmaster. He was succeeded, it is thought, by William Irvin, who was followed by Robert Sedam, Jonathan Sills and Jackson Richart. The latter was appointed in 1856, and still serves the people.

Buckeye Center

Buckeye Center is located three miles north of CedarviUe and the seat of the town house, also an Evangelical Church, one of the oldest in the county, having been erected in 1849. The congregation was at one time quite extensive, but is to-day limited to thirty members. The Rev. J. D. Shuler occupies the pulpit every other Sunday, alternately with the Rev. Mr. Schaffle.

Buena Vista

Buena Vista, a town of about 125 inhabitants, is located on Richland Creek, in the extreme western portion of the township, eleven miles from Freeport, and three miles from the line dividing Illinois and Wisconsin. The town was platted September 19, 1852, out of 40 acres of land contributed by Philip Reitzell, Marcus Montelius acting as surveyor. At that time, the county was but imperfectly settled, and lots in Buena Vista were not in general demand. Along in 1856, lots became marketable commodities, and were sold to William H. HoflF, Lewis Coppersmith, Thomas Strahorn and others. From that date, the rush of purchasers has never been " booming, '' and Buena Vista remains to-day an inland county town without much to attract or discourage the visitor or speculator.

The school facilities are ample, but there is no church in the village, the residents attending service at the Bellevue Church, one and a-half miles east of the town.

Whitehall Mills - Grist and saw, were erected as early as 1839 or 1840, by Philip Reitzell, though the saw-mill had been built by Ezra Gillett. Mr. R. died in 1852, when Buena Vista was laid out, and his sons succeeded to the management of the mill business. They operated the business until 1869, when the mill property was sold under foreclosure proceedings to the Northwestern Life Insurance Company, for |22,000. In 1870, Jacob Schatczell and Jacob Rumel purchased the investment and sold it in turn to Samuel Wagner, who sold to Jerry Wohlfort, the present owner, for about $18,000.

The mill is of frame, three stories high, 50x66, with three run of buhrs and capacity for 100 barrels of flour per day. When Schatczell & Rumel took possession, they tore down the old saw-mill and rebuilt the same at some distance north of the grist-mill. The mill is furnished with an upright saw, with rip and other saws, enabling the present owners to turn out a large quantity of building material annually.

one of the northern townships of Stephenson County, was first surveyed, according to information derived from the proverbial oldest inhabitants, by William Hamilton, son of the noted Federalist who met his death at the hands of Aaron Burr. This was early in the thirties. Subsequently, the land surveyed by Hamilton was subdivided into sections, and, after the county was set apart, Levi Robey, Erastus Torrey and Robert Foster laid it off into townships and christened the territory included in " Waddams." It was named for William Waddams, one of the earliest settlers in this portion of the State, is six miles square and contains a large area of cultivated acres. The land is prairie and rolling, highly fertile, and watered by the Pecatonica and numerous creeks and rivulets.

On the 21st of November, 1834, William Robey, accompanied by his family, which consisted of a wife, Levi Robey and wife, John Robey, William W. Robey, Thomas L. Robey, Francis A. Robey, Elizabeth and Mary Robey, came into Illinois from Portsmouth, Ohio, and settled at Brewster's Ferry, near the present town of Winslow. On St. Valentine's Day, 1835, Levi Robey and wife removed to the present town of Waddams, locating at a point on the bank of the Pecatonica half a mile northeast of his present residence. The township was then a "howling " wilderness, inhabited by Indians and wild beasts, with no other white person in the vicinity. Mr. Robey was the first to settle in the township. His neighbors consisted of the balance of the family left at Brewster's Ferry ; John Dixon, who kept a ferry thirty-five miles distant, on Rock River ; a man named Kent, living near the present city of Rockford ; William Waddams, seven miles west, and a man named Mack, who had married a squaw and was " keeping house " near the mouth of the river.

Mr. Robey entered claim to a quarter-section of land at the point above designated, and built a log hut, wherein he resided for many years after the tide of emigration had set in and contributed additions to the population.

Later in the spring of the same year. Nelson Wait, brother-in-law of Mr, Robey, joined the latter, took up ground and began its clearing; and during 1835 the number of inhabitants was further increased by the arrival of Hubbard Graves and wife, Charles Gappen, Abija Watson, John and Thomas Baker and William Willis, who distributed themselves over the township and made the beginning of what to-day is one of the most productive and profitably cultivated sections in the county. In those days, the same privations which settlers elsewhere were subjected to were the portion of pioneers in Waddams. Their mail and supplies were procured at Galena, and to obtain meal, grits or flour, compelled a journey to the mill at Wolf Creek, consuming two, and oftener three, days. But the fertility of the soil and the industry and enterprise of the inhabitants supplied many comforts the absence of these qualities would have rendered it impossible to obtain, and the long winter nights were thereby rendered more enjoyable than frequently falls to the lot of early settlers to experience. With the return of spring, out-door work was resumed, and the endeavor made to increase the acreage of cultivation for future benefits.

In 1836, Lydia Wait removed from Ohio to Waddams with her family, consisting of Asa, Maria and Fidelia, and settled on the northern part of Waddams. This venturesome lady has long since paid the tribute of mortality ; but her son, Asa, still lives at the old homestead. Thomas Hawkins, John Boyington, N. Phillips, John Lobdell, Pells Manny, Lewis Grigsby, Barney Stowell, a man named Velie and Nicholas Marcellus came about that time also. In fact, Waddams began to be thickly settled from 1835. New-comers were welcomed ; the advantages ofi"ered in a productive soil and hospitable climate attracted a generous patronage, composed of men of substantial character, ready to encounter difficulties, and to avail themselves of opportunities. Among those who came during 1836 was John Dennison, who emigrated from Wisconsin. He made claim to 1,000 acres, on which the present town of New Pennsylvania is in part located.

The first birth was William A. Robey, son of " Uncle " Levi Robey, the oldest living settler in the county, who was born September 21, 1836.

New Pennsylvania

The only town of importance in Waddams, as already stated, owes its origin to John Dennison, a Wisconsin agriculturist, who made claim to one thousand acres on the east bank of the Pecatonica River, for town purposes^ He came to the county in the spring of 1836, and erected a saw-mill above the grove, which he operated in conjunction with John Vanzant, and which was until recent years a landmark of early days. In 1837, Dennison & Vanzant laid off the tract into town lots, the latter acting as surveyor, and made other improvements as a means of attracting purchasers. In the spring of 1838, Robert McConnell purchased the title of D. & V., and named the prospective town " McConnell's Grove," since when it has been known under that title, " Bob town," and finally. New Pennsylvania. A storehouse was put up the same year, by McConnell, stocked with goods from Galena, and maintained as a trading depot long after the promise of New Pennsylvania becoming a city had gone glimmering. The tract was finally sold to the Illinois Central Railroad Company, and, after that corporation had exhausted the supply of timber available for fuel and building purposes, it was disposed of to John Kennedy. He sold lots and tracts to purchasers, including John Ault, Lewis G. Reed. Charles Webster, George Buck and others, who came to the country about the year 1855, when emigration was quite general to the West.

To-day, the town of New Pennsylvania has a population of about 150 residents, a comfortable hotel, two wagon and blacksmith shops, two stores, a harness-shop, and mail facilities three times a week with Freeport. It is a thriving town for its size, with all the religious and educational facilities peculiar to a location remote from railroad travel.

The schoolhouse located on the road to Cedarville, and near the Lutheran Church, was first erected in 1849, and through thirty years' exposure to the elements, has " held its own," with the promise of usefulness, for decades yet unborn.

The first teachers* employed in the vicinity were Fayette Goddard and Adeline Hulburt, who taught an average daily attendance of seventy scholars for many years. Since those times the district has been twice divided, once in 1868 and again, in 1871, and at present the daily attendance averages about fifty pupils of both sexes.

Lutheran Church. - The only church in the village was organized October 19, 1850, with nineteen members, and the Rev. G. J. Donmeyer, Pastor. At first the schoolhouse was used as a place of worship, but in 1869, the present edifice was erected. It is of brick, 30x45, ornamented with a steeple, and cost $2,200.

Three miles west of New Pennsylvania is a Lutheran congregation, also organized by Mr. Donmeyer, in 1851, with thirteen members. Twenty years later, the association built the church now in use, for $1,800, and has since occupied it.

JAMEIS H. ADDAMIS, farmer. Sec. 35 ; P. 0. Cedarville ; born in Berks Co., Penn., March 16, 1850 ; came to Stephenson Co., in 1850, in company with Mr. Latcham ; Samuel Adams his father's family consisted of ten children, of whom John H. and James H. are the only ones now here; James H. started for himself in 1844, having cried at an auction sale at 18 years of age. In 1843 he married Miss Livina Hinnersheetz, of Penn.; they had ten children, Alvin - born in 1844, and killed at Vicksburg; Agnes, born 1845, now at home; Austin, born in 1847, traveling agent; Elizabeth, born in 1849, deceased; Gustius, born 1851, now in Cedarville ; Samuel, born in 1853, on the farm; Nathan, born in 1855, deceased ; William, born in 1857, deceased ; Charles H., born in 1859, now studying for a teacher at the Normal School ; Lizzie, born in 1861, now at home ; John H., born in 1862, at home. Mr. Addams farmed in 1844, then went into the grain and coal business, sold out, and came West to his present home ; this house is the first brick that was built in the county ; he now owns 167 acres; has held both township and school offices; is a Republican.

J. WEBER ADDAMS, stock-farm. Sec. 32; P. 0. Cedarville; born in Cedarville, and spent his youth in attending school in the village ; he then went to Beloit, preparatory to entering Ann Arbor, where he remained until he entered the freshman class, when his health failed and he returned home, and went into the flouring mills owned by his father, John H. Addams ; then, in 1871, took a farm of 512 acres, which he now has stocked with fine cattle ; he gives attention to some 25 head of Jersey thoroughbreds which he introduced here. In 1876, he married Miss Laura Shoemaker, of Lena, 111.; they have one child, named Sarah.

J. B. ANGLE, farmer. Sec. 33 ; P. 0. Cedarville ; born in Franklin Co., Penn., in 1820. Mr. Angle came to Stephenson Co., in 1844; first located on Richland Creek, and then came here on to Sec. 33, buying his claim of Mr. Wingard ; lived in a log cabin, and afterward built his residence; owns 280 acres in Sees. 31, 32 and 33. In 1843 he married Miss Bell ; they have six children - Sarah, Luther,

Cedarville; were born in Union Co., Penn.; came to Stephenson Co., 111., in 1843; John Barber bought this claim of Barton Jones ; the old Barber estate comprises 463 acres, of which the family holds 273, now on Sees. 31 and 32 ; old Mrs. Barber now lives, enjoying full health and faculties, at the advanced age of 81 ; the original family was, Mary B., born May 21, 1822 ; Samuel B., born Dec. 29, 1824 ; Sarah F., Feb. 27, 1828, now Mrs. Jackson ; Thomas, born Jan. 6, 1831 : Ueorge W., March 5, 1835 ; W. Henry, born June 17, 1839, died in 1878; Ellen S., born Feb. 28, 1840. On coming here they lived in a log cabin, and, in 1854, built the residence in which they now live ; the family circle now being made of two brothers, three sisters, and their mother. Samuel and George have now established a fine stock-farm, and are breeding thoroughbred Jerseys, with which they have been very successful, and are now looking to the introduction of these fine animals into all the farms. The boys have belonged to the M. E. Church, and are of Republican principles.

THOMAS BARBER, farmer. Sec. 31 ; P. 0. Cedarville ; came out with the rest of the family in 1843 ; there were about fifty-four people in this party, the Barber family having three of the wagons ; his father, John Barber, drove one wagon, brother Samuel one and a hired man the other. They landed in Bock Grove Township, and moved down to Sec. 31 ; Thomas has lived here since. In 1854, Oct. 4, he married Miss Patton ; they have a family of four children - Samuel, George, Nellie and Sallie. Mr. Barber now farms most of the Barber estate, while his brothers carry on the stockfarm. He is Republican.

ANDREW J. BATES, Cedarville; born in Green Co., Ohio, Jan. 1, 1838; came to Stephenson Co. in 1845, with his father's family, to Buckeye Center; in 1851, went to learn the carpenter trade of Washington Epley, near Davis, in Rock Run Township ; he went West with Mr. Epley, but cameback and worked at his trade till September, 1861, when he enlisted in the 46th I. V. I., Co. A.; in the battle of Shiloh had two fingers carried away ; was discharged, in 1862, July 9 ; re-enlisted in 1863, and at Jackson, Miss., was struck by a spent ball ; came home, and was married, in 1867, to Miss Anna DeLong ; after staying in Davis five years, he moved to his present home in Cedarville. Mr. Bates is a Democrat. They had one child - Levi Gilbert, deceased.

JOHN F. BENDER, farmer. Sec. 26 ; P. 0. Cedarville ; born in Baden, Germany, March 14, 1822 ; came to United States in 1847 ; went to work in Buffalo, N. Y., and, in 1855, came to Stephenson Co. ; he then bought this place in 1855, and in 1856 moved on to it; the old log house which he built at that time is now incorporated with the large frame one that he lives in at present; he owns now a farm of 102 acres. In 1847, he married Miss Frederica Rude, and has a family of eight children - Charles F., Anna E., in Sterling; Mary, now Mrs. Wofesberger ; John, William, Aaron, Ida and Edward. Mr. Bender is a Democrat.

JOHN BOALiS, farmer. Sec. 16; P. 0. Fountain Creek; born in Donegal Co., Ireland, 1817; April 16, 1842, arrived in America; he was 25 years old on leaving New York ; there were two sisters with him - Mary, now deceased, and Catherine, now Mrs. Jenkins ; their passage over the lake resulted very nearly in a shipwreck ; from Chicago, they came to Freeport, and went out to stay at John Wilson's, on Sec. 28 ; took an 80 on Sec. 30, and, when his father came West, entered it in 1843, and an additional 160 acres in 1844; the old family consisted of Jane, Sarah, now deceased; Nancy, Latitia and Thomas. In 1853, married Miss Beattie and located on the farm where they live now; owns 170 acres in Sees. 16 and 21. Mr. Boals' family consists of Agnes, deceased ; Margaret, deceased ; Robert, deceased; Josephine, deceased ; M. Ida, now Mrs. Jaeger ; Sarah, Elizabeth, WilHam, Samuel, Latitia, Thomas and James, deceased. He is a Democrat, and belongs to the Presbyterian Church.

REUBEN BOBB, farmer. Sec. 3; P. 0. Orangeville ; born in Union Co., Penn., Aug, 25, 1841 ; came West with his father's family in 1845; went to Orange- ville first, then here on to the homestead in 1846 ; now owns 93 acres ; was engaged at farming till 1864, when he enlisted in the 32d I. V. I. ; he was taken prisoner at Tunnel Hill, and nearly starved to death in Florence, S. C, and saw Gov. Dick Oglesby at Camp Butler reprove the commissary for issuing bones for the boys' rations ; came home, and in Sept. 24, 1865, married Miss Amanda Reager, of Pennsylvania ; his children are - Melly E., Ida M. and Boyd W. ; has held school office ; belongs to the M. B. Church.

FREDERICK BOL.ENDER, farmer, Sec. 14; P. 0. Buena Vista; born in Union Co., Penn., Dec. 29, 1814; came to Stephenson Co. in company with Mr. Haas and Mr. Templeton ; stayed in Rock Grove till June 13, and last of July entered his claim, which he had purchased of Jacob Brown, consisting of 240 acres; now, however, increased to 300 acres ; he built his present residence in 1 850. Has been married three times ; in 1836, to Miss Ritzman, of Pennsylvania, who died in 1852 ; in 1853, to Miss Caroline Edwards, of Pennsylvania, who died in 1878; in November, 1879, to Miss Diana Bogar, of Union Co., Penn. ; they have six children - Harriet E., now Mrs. Fry ; George. Hannah, now Mrs. Kimball ; Jane, now Mrs. Yagle"; Ada, now Mrs. Etzler, and Wilson, now dead. Mr. Bolender has held most of the township offices ; belongs to the Reform Church ; is a Democrat.

JOHN BRUCE, farmer, Sec. 24 ; P. 0. Cedarville ; born in 1855, in New Jersey ; came West when 3 years old, and with his father lived on Robert Schofield's place ; then moved to Mr. Wilson's, on Sec. 21 ; they lived with Mr. Hixon and then with Adrian Lucas; this was in 1858, and they have stayed ever since, and with his father own this property. He married Miss Lucas in December, 1879 ; she was born in Pennsylvania ; his father, William Bruce, was married in 1863 ; now visiting his old home in Pennsylvania.

BOYD H. BRVNDAGE, farmer, Sec. 13; P. 0. Buckeye Center; came to the county in 1866, and settled in Buena Vista with his father, well known as Dr. Brundage ; he left home, and went to farming at Milledgeville ; but returned home, and then came here and settled on Sees. 12 and 13, where he now has a 40-aere farm. On Feb. 4, 1879, he married Miss Frederick. He is a Republican, and is one of a family of seven children, only two being at home - Albert and Delia.

DR. CHARLES BRUNDAGE, born in Luzerne Co., Penn., April 10, 1825 ; studied medicine in Castleton, Vt. ; graduated in 1847; practiced in his native county, then in Union, and finally came West to Stephenson Co., and established himself in Buena Vista, 1866, where he remained till 1880 ; in the spring, he moved on to his farm, on Sec. 11, of 80 acres. In 1851, married Miss Andrews, of Pennsylvania, and has a family of seven children - F. M., a physician, in Luzerne Co., Penn. ; Boyd H., Duke A., Moses S., Dora E., now Mrs. Radler ; Delia and Albert at home. Republican in politics.

J. B. CLiINGMAN, Cedarville; born in Pennsylvania, May 12, 1803; in his youth he was disabled by hip disease, and his future life was one in which scholarly acquirements enabled him to secure a competency ; in 1804, his father's family moved to Scioto Co., Ohio ; at the age of 18 he went into the Recorder's office, but on account of his health, in 1825, he was Tax Collector of Scioto Co., and then engaged in real estate speculation, where he made money, and came into Illinois, a healthy climate ; in 1836, entered land in La Salle Co., and in 1840 came to Stephenson Co. and settled on Sec. 25, Buckeye Township ; owns 120 acres and property in Cedarville. Mr. Clingman first married in 1828, to Miss Sarah P. Turner, of Ohio ; had a family of nine; his wife was killed by the falling of an old shed April 22, 1863 ; he married again on June 14, 1866, Miss Sarah Boyer, and had two children ; his last wife died May 28, 1877. His sons served in the army, and at one time there were fourteen by the name of Clingman enlisted. J. B. is a Republican, and belongs to the M. E. Church.

MRS. JOSIAH CLINGMAN, Cedarville ; came to the State of Illinois, in 1835, with her husband and family; settled first at Peoria, Putnam Co., where they stayed till 1836, then moved into La Salle Co., and from there to this county in 1837 ; their first stopping-place was Troy Grove ; afterward, Mr. Clingman bought a farm of 320 acres of Mr. Demmick, where he lived until the year of his death, March 30, 1865 - his widow moved into the village of Cedarville, where, together with her daughter, she now keeps house. Nov. 25, 1830, Josiah Clingman married Miss Maria Simpson, in Scioto Co., Ohio, the ceremony performed by the R,ev. Asa Bolinger; their family numbered ten children - George W., deceased ; Mary, now Mrs. M. G^Leitts ; Chester, deceased ; Ann Eliza, living with her mother ; Thomas S., was wounded at Shiloh, and died two weeks after getting home ; Jason, living north of Dakota ; William M., now lives on the homestead farm ; Edwin, deceased ; Sophia, now Mrs. L. Angle ; Ethel B., lives on Thomas Bell's farm. Josiah's brother, John B. Clingman, lives in Cedarville also. The widow of Josiah, the subject of this sketch, was born in Scioto Co., Ohio, November, 1809, and is at present writing in her 7 1st year.

JACOB F. DOERFL.1WOER, tailor, Cedarville ; born in Baden, Germany, October, 1819 ; came to America in 1853, landed in New York, and went to Buffalo, then came here, and is engaged at his trade, which he learned in the Old Country ; in summer time, gives his attention to raising tobacco ; owns house and lot& on which he lives. In 1856, married Miss Anna Rosche, of Switzerland ; has a family of four children - Anna, now Mrs. Boldenberg ; Louisa, now Mrs. Workinger ; Amelia, now Mrs. Ilgen ; and one boy named Christian.

REV. GEORtiJE J. DONMEYER, farmer. Sec. 13; P. 0. Buckeye Centre; born in Centre Co., Penn., June 17, 1814; he was sent out by the Lutheran Church, in 1850, to Stephenson Co., as missionary ; he was educated for the ministry in Pennsylvania College, going through a theological and literary course, taking charge of his first mission, in 1842, in Center Co. ; when coming West, he experienced the many difficulties common to pioneer travel, arriving. May 8, some three miles north of Lena ; preached his first sermon May 12, 1850, in the old schoolhouse where Fair's Church now stands; organized a Sabbath school here also, June 2, same year; at this time the total membership of the Lutheran Church was 181, in Stephenson Co. ; the Rev. George J. Donmeyer is now giving his attention to horticulture ; owns 85 acres. His family consists of Melinda, now Mrs. Cameron ; Addison G., who during the war belonged to Co. H, now at home ; Mary; Lizzie, deceased ; during life a talented musician ;. George, Cyrus, Luther, Laura, deceased, and Jacob U. Republican in politics; Lutheran in religion.

JOHIV EPL.EY, farmer, Sec. 27; P. 0. Cedarville; born in Berks Co., Penn., Aug. 14, 1825; was raised in Center Co. on a farm ; came to Stephenson Co. in 1841, June 6; went into the Cedar Creek flouring-mills, which then belonged to his brother Conrad, where he stayed till November of 1851, and on account of poor health, in spring of 1852, went to California; came back in 1860, and lived with wife's father, on Sec. 24, till 1865, when he bought his present home on Sec. 27, consisting of 87 acres. In 1847, he married Miss Anna Brown, of Pennsylvania, and had a family of five - Kate, now Mrs. Jackson ; Alice, Cora, Anna L. and John. He married a second time to Mrs. Deppen, formerly Miss Snyder, her child being named Mabel Deppen. Mr. Epley served as Justice of the Peace in 1850 and 1861 ; belongs to the Evangelical Church of Cedarville. He has three brothers - Benjamin, living at Davis, in this county ; James, now in Kansas ; Adam, now in this township on Sec. 23.

ISAMIJEJL ERMOL.D, farmer. Sec. 13; P. 0. Buckeye Center; born in Center Co., Penn., January, 1827 ; he came here to Stephenson Co. in 1840; in the spring of 1840, his father, George Ermold, bought land in the old Parriott claim, and then of Kretzer, and some of Folgate, having about 440 acres, in 1843 ; the old family were Hannah, deceased ; Samuel, subject of this sketch ; Solomon, John G. and Rueben, deceased ; father died in the fall of 1844, and mother in the spring of 1857 ; Samuel was 13 years old when they came to the county, and stayed with his father until beginning for himself In 1856, he married Miss Fager, and, in 1858, now owns a large farm on difiierent adjoining sections, of 235 acres, valued at $50 an acre ; the farm has been greatly improved ; in 1858, he built the residence and large barn the following year ; his family consists of two children - Oscar J. and Florentine M. Mr. Ermold has been Road Commissioner; Collector in 1862, and also School Trustee.

JACOB FOL.GATE, farmer, Sec. 13; P. O. Buckeye Center; born in 1840, in Center Co., Penn. ; when a year old, came to Stephenson Co. with his parents ; owns 100 acres of land ; was Postmaster from 1874 to 1876 ; he opened a store in 1874; sold out this business in 1876. He mirried Miss DeLong, in 1865; they have five children - Margaret C, Carrie, Mary A., Laura L. and Levi D. Democrat in politics ; attends Evangelical Church.

JAHEN FOL.GATE, farmer. Sec. 17 ; P. 0. Fountain Creek ; born June 22, 1830 ; came to Stephenson Co., in 1841, with mother, father and family of ten children, seven boys and three girls ; settled at Buckeye Center, and in 1851 located on Sec. 8, then to Brush Creek, Sec. 7 ; bought a farm of 185 acres, and in 1875, built a fine brick dwelling, costing $2,000. In 1851, he married Miss Matten. and now has four children - Jonathan, Isaac, Uriah and William. Mr. Folgate is a Democrat ; he is now giving some attention to Chester White and Berkshire.

JOHX FOX, miller, Cedarville; born in York Co., Penn., in 1836, and began milling in 1856, at 20 years of age, and while at his vocation has been working for Keystone Creek Mill ; then for John Sloat ; on Kritz Creek for Liphart & Rudy ; in 1859, he went to the old stand again, and then to a mill on Canoe Run, owned by George Crumlinger, and in 1862, left for the West, but returned to Pennsylvania, and at different times worked for these same men; he visited Cedarville first in 1871, and has now run the Cedar Creek Mills four years. In 1865, married Amanda Liphart ; has a family of six children - James, William, Elizabeth S., John D., Charles and Adeline. Mr, Fox belonged to the 195th Penn. V. I.

JOHN T. farmer, Sec. 6 ; P. 0. Orangeville ; born in Lebanon Co., June 13, 1823 ; came to Stephenson Co., in 1846 ; bought a claim of George Charter, entered it in the same year; owns 172 acres. In 1852, Sept. 28, he married Miss W. Viola Wick, of Pennsylvania, and in 1858, July 1, to Miss Livinia C. Lattig, of Pennsylvania ; has a family of two, John B., born Sept. 16, 1860, and Anna M., born Sept. 25, 1862. Mr. Gingrich is fond of preserving the records of the farm ; has a Bible over 100 years of age ; he has held township and school offices ; attends the Reform Church ; Republican in politics.

DANIEIi GRIM, farmer. Sec. 1 ; P. 0. Orangeville ; born in Center Co., Penn., in 1821 ; came to Stephenson Co., in 1845, in company with Benjamin Rousch ; worked in the harve>t fields of Ohio, and for Joshua Fowler, near Lena, in Waddams Township ; in 1845, Mr. Grim learned blacksmit^ing, in Mifilin Co., and worked on the White Hall Mills, for Philip Reitzell ; he went back to Pennsylvania in 1849, and married Miss Amelia Rousch ; came back to Buena Vista, stayed till coming on to this farm of 143 acres ; their children are Amanda, now Mrs. Smith; Mary A., now Mrs. Hockman ; Salina, now Mrs. Kramer ; Sirus, Rosette, now Mrs. Shauk ; Daniel, and John. Mr. Grim is a Republican in politics, and a Lutheran in religion.

WILIilAM D. HARTMAN, farmer. Sec. 11 ; P. 0. Orangeville; born in Union Co., Penn., Oct. 22, 1836 ; came to Stephenson Co., in 1857 ; father's family were Magdalena, deceased ; Mary A., now Mrs. Robendoll; Elizabeth, now Mrs. Young; Franklin, and Rebecca, now Mrs. Beair ; he owns 170 acre-'. In 1869, March 7, married Miss Caroline Epley ; their children are Madrona S., deceased; Frank W. Perry 0., Beatta E., William W., Anna C. William D.'s brother Franklin was shot through the leg at Ft. Donelson, and bled to death; Republican in politics.

GEORGE W. HARTSOrGH, farmer, Sec. 30 ; P. 0. Cedarville ; bora in Seneca Co., N. Y., in 1821 ; when a young man, he clerked and taught school.in Union Co., Penn. ; taught the Deisbach School four years, from 1840 to 1844 ; he spent one year in New York before coming West; arrived in Stephenson Co. in 1845; however, before leaving Pennsylvania he married Miss Scheckler, and on locating selected Rock Grove ; his wife has three brothers in the county - Levi, who lives in Rock Grove ; Peter, who lives in Orangeville, is a gunsmith, and Benjamin, who lives in Waddams,

T46 Biographical Sketches

Mr. Hartsough then went to teachins; school, and continued through 1846-48 ; then seeing ^ chance bjought a woolen-mill near Oneco, which he ran for six years ; but in 185H sold out the concern to Samuel Runkle, then going into the mercantile business; he also was Postmaster till 1860 ; disposed of these interests. Went to recruiting Co. G, " 93d I. V. I, and served a few months in this company as First Lieutenant ; but, his health failing, was compelled to return home ; then going into a woolen-mill in La Fayette Co., Wis., which he ran until he moved on to this farm. Sec. 30, in 1869. In public life, he has served as Commissioner, Justice of the Peace, Coroner, and in school offices. As Justice he was elected Nov. 23, 1852 ; he held this office for twenty-one years ; his papers bear the signatures of William Preston, County Clerk, and Hon. A. C. French, Governor of the State of Illinois. Among the marriages he made, the first was Mr. Davidson to Miss Van Winkle, and Solomon Kleckner to Eliza Ransom ; he is now serving the third term as Road Commissioner ; his farm consists of 40 acres, where he now lives. His politics are Democratic ; he has had a family of four children - Sarah, now Mrs. Hurlburt ; Mary, now Mrs. Clingman ; Addie, now Mrs. Briggs ; Susan, now Mrs. Humphrey.

JOHN HARTZEIiL, farmer. Sec. 6 ; P. 0. Orangeville ; born in Northampton Co., Penn., May 27, 1801 ; was engaged in farming during his life in Pennsylvania ; after his father's death he cared for the family, and came to Stephenson Co. April 10, 1855. On July 4, 1824, he married Miss Maria Andrews, who died on March 30, 1874, leaving a family of five - John, Henry, Mary E., now Mrs. Sechler ; Sarah A., now Mrs. Sheffer ; Hannah S., now Mrs. Barnd. In 1856, Mr. Hartzell settled on Sec. 6, and owns 262 acres, valued at S50 an acre. He belongs to the Reform Church of Orangeville.

WILLiIAM HERMAN, Cedarville; born in Adams Co., Penn.. March 23, 1800 ; moved to Lycoming Co., and stayed till 1828, when he moved to Tioga C >., and in 1846 came West to Stephenson Co., and located in Rock Run ; then he moved to Florence Township in 1877 ; sold out and came to Cedarville, and settled on their present home. !n 1828, he married Miss Stiefier ; their family consisted of five children - John, Elizabeth, Wesley, William, Judson M.

JOHN HESER, blacksmith, Sec. 13; P. 0. Buena Vista ; born in Bavaria, Germany, April 11, 1819 ; he learned his trade in his native country, and in 1848 came to America ; stopped in New Jersey ; was some time on Long Island ; the first place he lived in Stephenson Co. was Silver Creek Township ; he settled here in 1857 ; built his shop in 1863, and his present dwelling in 1865. Mr. Heser has held school offices, and belongs to the Lutheran Cnurch. Besides his house and shop, he owns 23 acres, valued at $50 an acre. His family consists of two children - John P. and Mary.

SOLOMON HIXSON, cooper, Cedarville ; born in Union Co., Penn., Nov. 18, 1824 ; learned his trade at an early age, and worked with his father until his death, in 1845; he supported the family then, and in 1853 married Miss Margaret Snyder, and again in 1866 to Miss Mary Snyder; his family consisted of six children - Luther, Willie, Eddie, Maggie, Charles, Emma. Mr. Hixson's mother died in 1876, aged 83 years. He was engaged from 1855 to 1867 in making barrels for the Cedar Creek Mills ; now farms some, and owns the property where he lives. He belongs to the Evangelical Church of Cedarville.

WIIiLIAM HOFF, merchant, Buena Vista; born in Union Co., Penn., April 19, 1833. In 1853, he married Miss Rachel Cline, of Pennsylvania, and in 1856 came West to Stephenson Co., going to Buena Vista in 1870 ; established a mercantile trade, which carried between $6,000 and $7,000 worth of stock. Mr. Hoff has now retired from busine.ss ; he now owns a house and nine lots in the village, having sold his business March 18, 1880, to J. G. Ermold. William Hoff held the office of Postmaster from 1877 to May, 1880, and his family are John, William H., Charles M., Bertha A. and Lewis J. (deceased). Democrat in politics; Lutheran in religion.

MILTON B. HUMPHREY, farmer, Sec. 20 ; P. 0. Buckeye Center; was born in Stephenson Co., and is now carrying on the old estate, which he has man- aged since 1877 ; it is situated on Sec. 20, consisting of 160 acres, valued at $50 an acre; he now has it stocked, and is giving his attention to pork. In December, 1875, he married Miss Hartzough, and had one child named Francis. Mr. Humphrey has held township and school oflSces, being Collector in 1875-76. His two brothers, John H. and Charles, enlisted in the 93d I. V. I ; his brother Edward joined the Regulars, 12th Regiment; served his time out, and is njw in Kansas.

THOMAS HUTCH.INSOX, farmer, Sec. 33 ; P. 0. Cedarville ; born in Union Co., Penn., Sept. 27, 1798 ; he was engaged in the woolen-factory with his brother, who died in January, 1880 ; manufactured in Union Co., then Lycoming Co., and then came West; he settled, first, near Cedarville, then bought this claim of John Rockey - then about 445 acres - of which he now holds 240, on Sec. 33 ; building a log cabin, went to farming, and at times worked at the factory ; and one season he spent in Beloit, manufacturing woolen cloths. Mr. Hutchinson, in 1824, married Miss Wallace, and for fifty-four years they lived together without a cloud to darken their happiness ; on June 11, 1878, she passeda way ; their family is M. Jane, now vat home ; Wallace, Stephenson Co. Treasurer ; Margaret, deceased ; Samuel, now on the adjoining faim ; Sarah, now Mrs. Miller ; Mary, now Mrs. Rutherford ; Martha, living at home ; Robert, at home ; Isabella, in the office with her brother Wallace in Freeport ; Samuel enlisted in the 146th I. V. I., and served one year on provost duty in the State of Illinois.

D. G. ILOEX, Cedarville ; born in Clinton Co., Penn., in 1840 ; he spent his youth in Cedarville, where his father, in co-operation with others, succeeded in laying out the village, and as it stands, occupies Greorge Iglen's Addition ; the pioneer family came to the West directed solely by map ani compass, stopped first in Dakota, and then, in 1849, came here ; the ground donated for public buildings was donated by Mr. Ilgen's family, the founder of the village ; George Ilgen died in 1864, and, in 1870, the mother was followed to the grave by her twelve children. D. Gr. Ilgen finished his education in Springfield, 111., and, in 1862, enlisted in the 93d I. V. I., Co. G, and was mustered out at Louisville, Ky., in June, 1865 ; during the service, he was in every rebel State, Texas and Florida ; on arriving home, went to teaching school, and after nine terms at this, went into the employ of L. H. Everts & Co., publishers, and, in their interests, traveled through Ohio, Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and in 1877 came to Cedarville, became the successor of James Benson, now carrying on an extensive and growing trade in general mercandise ; this mercantile . enterprise was started and established by Mr. Benson in 1850, being now the oldest in the village, and Mr. Ilgen is now doing a good business in Cedarville and surrounding country. On Dec. 28^ 1875, he married Miss Benson, of Cedarville ; their son James was born on Oct. 9, 1877.

JOSEPH F. JACKSON, proprietor and operator of the Cedar Creek Woolen Factory, about two and a half miles northeast of Cedarville, on Sec. 32 ; the mill was built in 1856, and run as a flaxseed oil-mill, J. F. Jackson, Richard Glenan and John H. Addams, proprietors ; in 1859, the woolen-factory was established by Joseph F. Jackson, and has been run by him since ; in the diflferent cloths manufactured, there are 18,000 pounds of wool used per annum ; the building is 35x40 feet, three stories high, was formerly run by an over-shot waterwheel, but, in 1872, a Lefiel turbine was placed in the mill of 20-in. diameter ; near the mill stand the houses occupied by the families who gain a subsistence by working there. Mr, Jackson was born in Clinton Co., Penn., Jan, 1, 1821 ; learned the tanning trade, and worked at it a number of years ; on coming W^est, he taught school, then went to farming. In 1847, married Miss Sarah Barber, and they have seven children - Sarah E., now Mrs. Dienur ; Emily, John, Clara, Effie, William and Mary. Mr. Jackson has held the office of Supervisor, and also school offices ; in politics, a Republican.

JACOB JONES, miller, Cedarville; born in Maryland, July 18, 1822 ; he was engaged with his father in farming and distilling till 1840, when they sold out and came West, and settled in Ogle Co., 111., where his father died at the age of 93 ; his mother, now 78, still Hves, hale and hearty. Mr. Jones engaged in milling on coming

"West, and has been employed in quite a number of mills in this and surrounding counties ; is now resting, expecting to go to work soon. On Dec. 24, 1846, he married Miss Anna R. Mitten, of Maryland ; their family is Margaret M., Mary, Greorge, Alice, Ida, Clara, Laura, Prank and Samuel. Mr. Jones is a Democrat ; his wife belongs to the Lutheran Church.

ROBERT JONEIS, farmer. Sec. 24 : P. 0. Buckeye Center ; born in Kent Co., England, Feb. 16, 1799 ; he left in the spring of 1831 for New York ; lived in Utica for one year, and about 1834, taking the Western fever, struck out for Illinois, where he met Levi Lucas, and came to Stephenson Co., in 1835, Dec. 24 ; when here, took claims of some 500 acres each ; together built a cabin, which was finished in 1836 or 1837 ; he lived here but one year ; in 1845 put up part of his present house, and finished it in 1860 ; owns 154 acres of land, valued at $50. Mr. Jones married Miss Horlacher, Aug. 9, 1838, who died in 1859 ; in 1867, married again, a Miss Burgess; by the first marriage had seven children - Daniel W., twin brother to Thomas B.; David, Sarah, deceased ; Elizabeth, now Mrs. Lied; Anna M., now Mrs. Pry; Robert H. Mr. Jones is a Republican, and now gives attention to cultivating grapes and bee keeping.

TH091 AIS B. JONES, farmer. Sec. 24 ; P. 0. Buckeye Center ; born Feb. 3, 1841, in Stephenson Co.; his father came to this county in 1835, Dec. 24; he owns 90 acres of land. Enlisted in 1861 in Co. B, 46th I. V. I.; served to the end of the war ; he was promoted to Corporal ,then 2d Lieutenant, and mustered out 1st Lieutenant; was wounded at the battle of Shiloh ; was TowQship Collector during 1874 and 1875 ; is Justice of the Peace; is Trustee and Steward of the M. E. Church at Cedarville. Married Susan D. Snyder, in 1868 ; they have one child, Ralph D., born May 28, 1874; Republican in politics; attends M. E. Church.

DAXIEL. KECK, farmer, Sec. 9 ; P. 0. Fountain Creek ; born in Lehigh Co., Penn., in 1809, and his wife in 1816 ; he came out for health in 1851, to Stephenson Co.'; while in Pennsylvania followed mercantile business; before coming West, had sent money to a friend, who bought 80 acres for him on Sec. 9, where he has since lived. In 1835, he married Miss Sager, and their family are Henry S., who belonged to Co. A, 46th I. V. L, Joseph S., Mary N., Amelia N. (now Mrs. Longenstein ), Ellen L. and Hiram F. Mr. Keck belongs to the Evangelical Church, and was a class leader thirty years.

DANIELr KOISTENBADER, farmer and carpenter, Cedarville ; a native of Pennsylvania ; came here in 1847 ; landed in Savannah, and started with his brother Aaron for David Neidigh's farm, where their brother Andrew was working ; when they arrived at their destination, they had trouble to find work. In 1848, he and Aaron built a shop, and Aaron married and moved into it ; one-half was used as a carpenter shop ; in 1855, went back East, and with his sister, commenced keeping house ; in 1857, he sold out that property and since 1860 has lived in this house; Daniel is single, and in 1861 enlisted in the 46th I, Y. I., Co. K. ; mustered out in 1862. The old family was Joseph, in Pennsylvania ; Henry and Betsy also ; Aaron is on the farm; Andrew is in Kansas; Louisanna, now a widow; Margaret, keeping house for Daniel; John, now deceased; Moses and Jake, in Pennsylvania; Samuel Soloman, over in Richland ; Elias, in Iowa ; Elias and Soloman were in the 92d I. V. I., and through the war ; Daniel is a Republican.

WILLIAM H. KRYDER, farmer, Sec. 32 ; P. 0. Cedarville ; born in Pennsylvania Valley, Center Co., Penn., 1835; came W"est with a party of about seventeen persons ; it took over three weeks to make the trip ; on the way, his life was saved by Hannah Meese, who caught him as he was about to fall into the river ; they came by boat to Savannah, and with four teams ; from there up to where Neidigh lived, in an old cabin ; they arrived in the county in 1842, May 18, soon built a cabin in Lancaster Township, where they lived until moving over to the factory, where he stayed ti-om 1862 to 1864 ; he then moved to Cedarville, and enlisted Sept., 3, 1864, in the 146th I. V. I., Co. E, and escorted President Lincoln's body to the grave ; he came back to Cedarville in July 25, 18 5. In 1859, he married Miss Williams, and in 1869 moved on to the farm on Sec. 32 ; owns 171 acres, belonging at one time to the old Dr. Van Valzee claim. Mr. Kryder has a family of seven children - Mary J., now Mrs. Grayham ; Ida B., deceased ; George W., J. Frank, Hiram D., deceased ; Eva M. and Cyrus.

EDWIX LIED, flirmer, Sec. 24; P. 0. Buckeye Centre; born in 1841 in Lancaster Co., Penn. ; in 1854, came to Stephenson Co. ; owns 160 acres ot land. Enlisted in 1861 in Co. E, 11th I. V. I.; was mustered out June, 1865 ; was taken prisoner at Florence, Ga., in 1864; was released March 3, 1865. Has held township and school offices. Married Miss Jones Sept. 21, 1865; they have seven children - Harry R., Regina, John, Mary L., Lizzie E., Edwin M. and Robert R. He owns 80 acres of land. Republican in politics ; Lutheran in religion.

WlLiLilAH IjIED, merchant and Postmaster, Buckeye Center ; born in Lancaster Co., Penn., Dec. 22, 1838; commenced keeping store with Jacob Folgate, but bought him out in 1878, and has sole possession of the business, which is increasing ; he owns the store and a fine dwelling-house next, besides the land on which they are built. In 1858, Feb. 12, married Miss Melinda Folgate. Belongs to the Lutheran Church ; Republican in politics.

WILLIAM McHOEl^, farmer. Sec. 1; P. 0. Orangeville ; born in Northampton Co., Penn , 1815; came to Stephenson Co. in 1849, with Charles Woodring's, Thomas and Jacob Bumis' and Mr. Applebauch's families ; stayed on John Miller's farm that winter ; in spring, moved to prairie north of Piles' Grove ; then moved here on to his present home; he owns 160 acres, the southwest quarter of Sec. 1. In 1839, married Miss Woodring, who died in 1868. In 1871, he was married to Miss Lattig, of Pennsylvania ; has had thirteen children, but there are only two at home - - Eben and George; Oliver belonged to the 92d I. V. L, Co. G. Mr. McHoeshas been Township Commissioner and Justice of the Peace. Lutheran in religion.

WILLIAM K. MOCK, confectioner, Cedarville ; born in York Co., Penn., Aug. 15, 1811 ; he moved to Lebanon Co. in 1818, and was engaged in mercantile business until coming West ; in 1852, he went to Peru, La Salle Co., and then moved to Cedarville, where he kept the Cedarville House, but sold out and went into confectionery in 1854, and has been in it since ; he owns a farm in Iowa, and also town property. In 1847, he married Miss Catherine Shull ; they have one son, VanBuren, a carriage-painter. Mr. Mock is a Republican, and belongs to the Lutheran Church since 1827.

MICHAEL MUNHART, farmer. Sec. 10 ; P. 0. Buena Vista ; born in Germany, May 5, 1815 ; emigrated to America June 20, 1840 ; stopped in Lancaster Co. three years ; in Richland Co. two years, and came to Stephenson Co. in September, 1845; owns 40 acres of land. In 1851, he married Miss Elizabeth Addam, of Pennsylvania, Union Co. He and his wife have belonged to the Lutheran Church since childhood.

DANIEL MUSSER, farmer. Sec. 2; P. 0. Orangeville; born Oct. 26. 1836, in Centre Co., Penn. ; came to Stephenson Co. in 1856, in company with his brothers; settled here, where his mother kept house for him till he was married in 1864 to Miss Rebecca Dreiblebis, of Pennsylvania ; their children are William L., Mary E., Carrie M. and Burchard C. Mr. Musser owns 180 acres, and has been Supervisor of Buckeye since 1874 ; his brother, John, was elected Captain of Co. A, 46th I. V. I. ; was wounded at Shiloh, and died in the hospital at Quincy ; was buried in the cemetery at Orangeville.

MRS. MANLY PARRIOTT, widow. Sec. 13; P. 0. Buena Vista; born in 1827, and married Manly Parriott in June, 1849 ; then moved to the old homestead in a log house, until 1860; when they built the one in which George now lives, she has two other children - Deborah, now Mrs. Clingman, and William, now tending the farm, which she owns, 250 acres. Her husband has been dead ten years, having died March 28, 1870, and his mother, Nov. 12, 1849. Both belonged to the M. E. Church of Orangeville. Mrs. Manly Parriott's maiden name was Betsey J. Carroll.

JACOB PIFER, carpenter and farmer, Cedarville ; born in Lebanon, Leba* non Co., Penn., September, 1826 ; he learned his trade of WiUiam Layme when 18 years old, and May 3, 1862, came to Stephenson Co., and lived in Samuel Rosenberger's house in Cedarville; and in 1868, having bought this place, built a house on it, still working at his trade. In 1852, married Miss Rosenberger, and has a family of four boys - W. Latten, Cyrus A-, and Samuel L., all carpenters now; Edward L., now working at painting. Mr. Pifer belongs to the German Reform Church at Cedarville, of which he is an Elder, now under Rev. F. Stump, of the Orangeville Circuit.

JOHN POJLLOCK, farmer, Sec. 5 ; P. 0. Orangeville ; born in Scioto Co. Ohio; on April 8, 1844, he came to Stephenson Co., having lost his wife just before coming out ; settled on Sec. 5, and bought 170 acres ; used to be the old Fey claim ; built part of the dwelling he now lives in, in 1848, and finished it in 1865. In 1847, he married Miss Morton, of New York, and has a family of eight children - Quincy, killed at Pittsburg Landing ; Sarah J., now Mrs. Rockey ; Anne E., David, Mary, John, Emma (deceased) and Jennie. Mr. Pollock has held school offices. Politics, Democrat. Mrs. Pollock belongs to the M. E. Church of Pleasant Hill.

THOMAIS POIiLOCK, farmer, Sec. 5 ; P. 0. Orangeville ; born in Scioto Co., Ohio, May 6, 1815 ; he first visited this county in 1840, afterward, together with his brother John, settled here in 1844 ; in 1845, their father came out, and they bought 320 acres for $450. Thomas married Miss Wilson in 1842 ; she died in 1859. In February, 1860, he married Miss Van Meter, and has a family of ten children - Calvin (deceased) ; Angemima, now Mrs. Messer ; Samuel - and next family - Janette, James, Lewella, William, Quincy, George, Flora ; Janette, is now Mrs. Fair. Mr. Pollock has been Commissioner of Highways, and held school oflSces. Politics, Democrat ; religion, Presbyterian.

PETER C. REEDY, carpenter and farmer. Sec. 23 ; P. 0. Buena Vista ; born in Berks Co.. Penn., in 1814 ; learned his trade when 17 years of age, in Berks Co., and moved to Lebanon Co. ; from there to Ohio in 1839, then came to Stephenson Co. in 1844, in company with James Taylor and Andrew Streetmaker and family, Jacob Ploutz and family, Peter C. Reedy and John Emmes ; after one year in Waddams, he bought his farm where he now lives, of 40 acres. Mr. Reedy is a bachelor, and at present has his brother and wife living on the homestead. Peter C. is a Democrat.

CHARLEIS REITZELL, farmer; P.O. BuenaVista; his father, Philip Reit" zell, and family came to Stephenson Co. in September, 1840 ; George was here in March, John and Jonathan in June of the same year; his father died in 1850; his mother died in 1879 ; the old family were Franklin, Henry, Charles, Cyrus, Elizabeth, now the widow of E. B. Strohecker, and Mary ; Franklin and Henry first managed the estate, and then Charles and Cyrus ; they run the White Hall Mills from 1850 to 1874 ; Mrs. E. B. Strohecker was married to Dr. E. B. Strohecker in 1850; family - Eugene B., Mary E. and Jennie G. ; Charles was born in Centre Co., Penn., in 1837, and is now holding a township office.

WILLIAM RITZMAN, farmer. Sec. 1 ; P. 0. Orangeville ; born in Union Co., Penn., Dec. 25, 1804; followed milling and stilling till coming West. In 1829, he married Mary Gailwigs, who died in 1849. In 1851, June 10, he married Miss Mary Midderling, of Pennsylvania, and came to Stephenson Co. in November, 1846 ; settled on his homestead April 10, 1847, which he bought of Daniel Hawley, consisting of about 300 acres ; there have been twenty-two children in the family, but only thirteen are now living - William, Henry, Jackson, John, George, Aaron, Charles, Robert (deceased), Martin, Lewis, Catherine, Uriah, Calvin and Quincy. Lutheran in religion.

EU{§»EBIUI«i ISCHADLE, farmer. Sec. 29 ; P. 0. Cedarville ; born in Wurtemburg, Germany, Dec. 13, 1817 ; in his native country he learned weaving, and worked at it till coming to the United States, in the month of March, 1852 ; he stayed in New York awhile, and then came West in May of the same year to Stephenson Co., and settled in Silver Creek Township on a farm, but afterward moved to Buckeye, where he now owns 79 acres on Sec. 29. In 1854, he married Miss Haberly, of Ger- many; they have five children - Hannah, now Mrs. Frouz ; Lizzie, living in Freeport ; John, Mary and Willie. Mr. Schadle is a Democrat, and belongs to the Catholic Church.

WILIilAH STEWART, farmer, Sec. 28; P. 0. Cedarville ; born in Donegal Co., Ireland, March 17, 1833 ; came to Stephenson Co. in 1839, with about twenty-two persons in the party ; came by water to Chicago, 111., and from there by land, in wagons, to Freeport, where his father, Robert Stewart, took up his claim on Sec. 28, where William now lives, and owns 200 acres. In 1861, Nov. 7, he enlisted in the 46th I. V. I., Co. K ; was promoted to First Lieutenant in 1862, Oct. 11, for meritorious service; promoted to captaincy, and in 1866, May 15, to Brevet Major. In 1866, May 27, he married Miss Gransdan, and has managed the farm ever since his father died, Jan. 21, 1872; they have seven children - Anna B., Amelia M., Robert J., Elsie S., Henry G., Sadie E. and Willie C. ; the old family, thirteen ; Robert now in California ; Thomas, deceased ; Lucinda, now Mrs. Whitmore ; Margaret, now Mrs. Paul ; Mary A., now Mrs. Heckle ; William, subject of this sketch ; Catherine, now Mrs. Johnson; Sarah, now Mrs. Nelson; Elizabeth, now Mrs. Wier; James C, Charles, Clara J., now Mrs Graham, and James C., deceased; their mother died April 14, 1878.

DR. S. THOMPSOir, Cedarville ; born in 1850 ; studied medicine when 19 years of age; read with Dr. Barrett, and went to Chicago and attended lectures at the Rush Medical College, graduating in the spring of 1872, and entered the competitive examination, and was assigned to St. Luke's Hospital, and took general practice for one year ; he was then laid on his back by contracting the measles, and lost two good offers for Regular Army Physician ; this was in the spring of 1873 ; in 1874, he came to Cedarville, and took Dr. S. R. Bucher's practice, the Docter having died in 1874. He was one of the earliest pioneer settlers, and lefc a well established business, which Dr. Thompson most ably retains. He has quite a large laboratory connected with his office, and has accumulated sufficient to build a beautiful residence on the corner of Mill and Cedar streets. - In 1879, he married Miss Ida M. Bucher.

GEORGE TROTTER, farmer. Sec. 2 ; P. O. Orangeville ; born in Bourbon Co., Ky., June 13, 1809 ; in 1826, emigrated to Sangamon Co., 111. ; while a young man passed back and forth through Stephenson Co., mining, and during the Blick Hawk war; serving in that campaign under Gen. Henry ; in 1836, took this claim ; now owns 135 acres. In March 24, 1833. married Miss Sarah Chilton, of Madison Co., 111. ; their children are Thomas, Elizabeth, now Mrs. Van Matre ; James, WilHara, George (deceased); Urania, now Mrs. Scott; Mary A. (deceased) ; Millard F., Sarah J. (deceased) ; Lucy C, now Mrs. Robey ; John C. Mr. Trotter has held school offices, and his wife belongs to the United Brethren Church of Orangeville.

ANDREW WILSON, farmer, Sec. 21; P. 0. Fountain Creek; born in 1823, Donegal Co., Ireland ; he came to America in 1839, with his father, John Wilson ; the rest of the family were John, Mary, Eli, Samuel, James and Moses; Andrew, in early times, worked for Dr. Van Valzee ; mowed hay for Joseph Green, and was at McGee's mowing bee. He now lives on and owns 1 32 acres of the farm his father had originally claimed, which at one time embraced 640 acres. The house built on the old claim still stands. Andrew stayed on the old homestead until 1853, when he got this farm, lying on Sees. 21 and 28. In 1867, he married Mrs. Woods, formerly Miss Pyle ; they have had one child named Mary Jane. Mr. Wilson is a Democrat, and belongs to the Presbyterian Church of Cedarville.

JOHN WILSON, farmer. Sec. 21 ; P. 0. Fountain Creek ; born in 1827 in Donegal Co., Ireland ; came to America with his father's family in 1839 ; John, among his early experiences, helped to build the bridge across the river at Freeport ; and when they first got their claim there was but 10 acres broken. In 1858, he married Miss Devins, of Pennsylvania, and settled on his present home. Sec. 21, where he has a farm of 80 acres, valued at $50 an acre. Mr. Wilson is a Democrat, and has a fine family of five boys and five girls. John Wilson, his father, was quite an early settler in Stephenson Co., and is well and favorably known.

PHIL.IP WIXDECKER, deceased ; born 1826, in aermany ; came to New York in 1849, where he worked as a cooper for eleven years, then coming West, arrived in Stephenson Co., in 1850, erected a cooper-shop, and besides making barrels for the surrounding country, farmed his land, using in those days, a yoke of oxen. Mr. Windecker died in 1876 ; he was married in 1843, and his widow now holds the farm of 87 acres; their family are John, Lucy, now Mrs. Swartz ; William, Amelia, now Mrs. Augenstien ; Ellen, now Mrs. Hofmeister ; Sarah, now Mrs. Cochran ; Hiram, Albert, Clara and Joseph. Mrs. Windecker belongs to the Evangelical Church ; John and William belonged to the 46th I. V. I., Co. A ; they on Sec. 9 ; P. 0. Fountain Creek.

JERIT WOHIiFORD, miller, Buena Vista ; proprietor of the White Hall flouring-mills ; he bought the mill property in 1876, January; the dimensions are 50x60 feet, 3i stories high, and runs three pairs of stones, with the finest water-power in the county, using the Leflle turbine wheel, one 30 in., the other 36 in.; Jared's father settled on Sec. 12, in this county in 1842 ; he^has three brothers, John, Thomas and Webster; he now own the mill and 360 acres of land. In 1867, married Miss Melinda Shank, of Wisconsin, and has six children - Ida, Emma, Johns Eddie, Mary and Melinda, twins. Mr. Wohlford has held office, and is a Republican.

Source changes here: from History of Stephenson County, Illinois : a Record of Its Settlement, Organization, and Three-quarters of a Century of Progress, by Fulwider, Addison L, published 1910; 4,124 words in this source stream.

Buckeye Township

Buckeye Township is located in the north central part of the county, and is second to no other township of the county either in fertility of soil or in political importance. It is traversed from north to south by Richland Creek, one of the swiftest streams of the county, and second in size only to the Pecatonica River. Richland Creek flows through the villages of Buena Vista and Red Oak, and has in the past afforded excellent water power for turning a number of mills. Most of the mills are now abandoned, and those which are still operated in various portions of the county are doing only a meagre business, hardly sufficient to warrant their continuance. Cedar Creek, which rises in Dakota Township, pursues an uneven and eccentric course in a general westerly direction, and joins Richland Creek a short distance south of Red Oak. It is itself joined by Coon Creek, a very small stream, which rises in the northern part of Buckeye Township, is joined by a multitude of little brooklets, and flows into Cedar Creek just east of Cedarville.

As far as can be learned, John Goddard was the first permanent white settler in Buckeye Township. He came to these regions in 1835, and settled in the southern part of Buckeye Township, near the present site of Cedarville. This was in the spring of the year. Before fall, David Jones and Levi Lucas came and settled near him, the former making claim to a large tract of land surrounding the present village of Buckeye Center. Here he built a log cabin and began housekeeping. In time the population was increased by the arrival of George Trotter, Richard Parriott, and William Hollenback.

In 1835, William Robey had made a claim in Buckeye Township, but did not come to take possession until the following year. In 1836 there came also Jehu Pile, Andrew St. John, Ira Holly, Job Holly, Daniel Holly, and a number of others. Jehu Pile and Richard Parrioft settled near the present town of Cedarville, while the others for the most part laid their claims in the northeastern part of the township.

In 1837, a large number of families came to settle. In that year also, in the month of May, occurred the first death in the township, that of Richard Parriott, Sr. Among the settlers of '37 were Dr. Thomas Van Valzah, who bought the mill claim of John Goddard and Barton Jones, built what was afterward known as the Cedar Creek Mills, and afterward put up a log cabin for his family. This mill continued in operation, under the management of one John Fisher, from November, 1837, to January I, 1838. That year Cedar Creek overflowed its bank and the dam was destroyed. Since that the present dam has been constructed. At the time of Dr. Van Valzah's immigration a large company came, including J. Tharp, G. W. Clingman, Jackson Richart, Lazarus Snyder, Jacob S. Brown, Joseph Green, arid others.

Library Of The

In 1838 occurred the first marriage solemnized in Buckeye Township. Robert Jones and Mary Harlacher were united by the Rev. Mr. McKean, the first Methodist preacher of the county, the ceremony being performed all the residence of Dr. Van Valzah. The bridegroom built a rude log cabin for his new bride, and thither he escorted her, without the preliminary convention of a bridal tour. On the 23rd of June following, David Jones was born to the couple, the first recorded birth of the township. Among the arrivals of the year were Benjamin Bennett, John Murdaugh, Adrian Lucas, and James McGhee.

In 1840 the increase of population still continued, in spite of the fact that Indian camps in the district menaced the settlers. Life was hard, and the Pottawatomies and Winnebagpes were near by with their settlement at the mouth of Richland Creek, on the banks of the Pecatonica. But from 1840 dates the prosperity of the Buckeye settlers. In that year came J. B. Clingman, Philip Reitzell, George Reitzell, who settled near the present site of Buena Vista, Henry Wohlford, John Fryebarger, Richard Parriott, Jr., Franklin Scott, George Ilgen, who afterward became the founder of Cedarville, and a number of others.

After 1840, farms were opened and cultivated, new homes were built, and the old log cabin began to disappear. For a time it was hard to make a living. The early Buckeye settlers depended mainly on their guns for meat, and created great havoc among the flocks of prairie chickens and herds of deer which were to be found in the timber. Flour was difficult to obtain until the various mills were started, but from 1840 on, the conveniences of life became more accessible.

Previous to 1838, Buckeye Township was a portion of the district known as Central Precinct, which comprised the present towns of Buckeye, Dakota, Harlem, and Lancaster. About that time the present division was made. Within the next ten or twenty years, the various villages of the township were established. There are today in Buckeye a larger number of' villages than in any other township of the county. In 1849, Cedarville was founded and laid out by George Ilgen, and in the same year Buckeye Center came into existence. Buena Vista was platted and settled on September 19, 1852. Later on Afolkey was settled in the northeastern portion of the township on the town line. Buckeye Township is today one of the most prosperous sections of the county. It has a population of about 3,000 inhabitants, most of them located on the farms of the the township. Buckeye is one of the larger townships of the county, containing thirty-six square miles. It is traversed by the Madison and Dodgeville branches of the Illinois Central Railroad, which pass through Red Oak, formerly known as Cedarville Junction, and Buena Vista.

Buckeye Center

Buckeye Center is no longer a postoffice, and since the removal of that institution there is nothing at the cross roads to attract the attention of the passing traveller. Formerly a large number of farmers came to Buckeye Center for their mail, and the settlement which sprang up about the postoffice supported a general store. However, the advent of the Rural Free Delivery system put Buckeye Center postoffice out of service, as it did so many others. With the withdrawal of the postoffice the store discontinued its business and the village is now merely a group of farm houses.

Buckeye Center does, however, contain the town hall of Buckeye Township, where the township meetings are held. There is also an Evangelical church, the oldest now in existence in the county. It is the same building which was originally built, and presents an exceedingly dilapidated appearance, many of the windows being broken in, and the whole property abandoned and out of repair. Services have long since been discontinued in the church, and the building is now of interest only to the lover of the antique.

While Buckeye Center is hardly a village in the strict sense of the word since the removal of the postoffice, the settlement is most picturesque, being located in a wooded hollow at the foot of a considerable hill. The main buildings of the settlement are occupied by the Maple Spring Dairy, whose trim dwellinghouse and outbuildings, and neat, well-kept, sweet-scented dairy bespeak a prosperous and well conducted business.

Red Oak

Red Oak is the newest town in Buckeye Township. It was not a natural settlement, but sprang into existence at the time of the building of the railroad to Madison and Dodgeville., In 1888, the two northern branches of the Illinois Central were put through. They ran over the same tracks from Freeport to Scioto Mills, and thence to a point in the southern part of Buckeye Township. Here they divided and the Madison branch went north through Buena Vista and Orangeville, while the Dodgeville line ran in a northwesterly direction through the towns of McConnell and Winslow.

At the point of divergence in the southern part of Buckeye, there was originally no town, but a tiny settlement quickly grew up about the railroad station. The station was originally named Cedarville Junction, from its proximity to that village, but the postoffice which was presently established, assumed the name of Red Oak, and the railroad name of the village was also changed.

The first settler of Red Oak was W. R. Bender, who founded the village in 1888. He opened a grocery, and general store, and became the first postmaster. The settlement grew slowly for a time, when the influx of several farmers raised the population to about one hundred, which it still remains. For thirteen years, Mr. Bender conducted his grocery and general store, until the advent of another grocery in 1901. At that time he closed the doors of his general store, and reopened soon after with a hardware and farmers' supplies establishment.

In addition to its two stores, Red Oak also boasts of a creamery, which is one of the oldest institutions of the town. It was built and organized in 1892, four years after the coming of the railroad. The Red Oak Creamery is now in the hands of the Farmers' Mutual Benefit Association, and is operated by William Waite. It is doing a large business, and is one of the most prosperous of its kind in the county.

Red Oak possesses two lodges, one a camp of the Modern Woodmen of America, and the other an organization of the Mystic Workers. There is one church, a Methodist organization, which was founded soon after the building of the town. The church edifice, which is a handsome brick structure, was erected in 1891. The pastor now in charge is the Rev. W. M. Kaufman, of

Orangeville, who has Red Oak as part of his circuit. The several church societies are all active organizations in their various lines of activity, but aside from them, the social life of the community is necessarily limited. The last census numbered the population of Red Oak at about 125, and the village has grown little, if any at all, within the past ten years.