Buffalo Township (part 2 of 2)

WAMSIiEY WILL.IAM, whose portrait appears in this volume, was born in Schoharie Co., N. Y., Aug. 2, 1794. His parents moved from Schoharie to Delaware Co., N. Y., when he was fourteen years of age. At the age of twenty-two he married Miss Mary Bassett. His parents were farmers, and he continued to occupy and work the same farm that they had taken up and improved, until the year 1837, when he with his family and several of his neighboring families moved to the State of Illinois, and settled at Buffalo Grove in this county. The boundaries of Ogle County had not at that time been established. Mr. Wamsley, before leaving New York, had become associated with the public affairs of his native State, and on arriving at his new home he was at once selected as one of the Commissioners to fix the boundaries and divide the county into precincts. He was then elected one of the County Commissioners, which oflfice be held for several years ; he also held the office of School Commissioner of the county. He assisted in the organization of the First Presbyterian Church at the town of BuflPalo, and was elected one of its Deacons. He afterward assisted in establishing the Independent Presbyterian Church at the city of Polo, and was elected one of its Elders, which position he held until near the time of his death. He held the office of Justice of the Peace for a number of years in the Township of Buflfalo, and in many other respects was one of the leading representative men of the county. His wife, Mary Bassett ,was born in Martha's Vineyard, Mass., Feb. 20, 1796. Mrs. Wamsley was very infirm in health when she came to the State, and remained so through life ; yet she was ot that peculiar disposition, kind, motherly, forbearing and yet commanding, especially amongst her immediate friends and relations, as to gain the love and respect of all who made her acquaintance. Mr. and Mrs. Wamsley raised a family of seven children, all of whom are living at this time. The eldest, Charles C. Wamsley, is a nurseryman and farmer, three miles northwest from Polo ; William J. is a farmer two and one-half miles northwest from Polo, owns and occupies the farm formerly owned, improved and worked by his father ; Mary H., the eldest daughter, and wife of Geo. D. Read, Esq., resides in the city of Polo ; Esther Ann, now the wife of Harrison H. Collar, a farmer, with James H. and George V. Wamsley, also farmers, reside in the State of Iowa; Emma L., the wife of Martin F. Bassett, resides in the city of Polo. William Wamsley died on the 3d of September, 1872, and Mrs. Wamsley died on the 22d day of August, 1875.

WAMSIiEY WM. JOHNSON, Farmer, Sec. 6 ; P. 0. Polo ; owns 280 acres of land in this county, and 240 acres in Adair Co., Iowa ; he was born in Andes, Delaware Co., N. Y., March 21, 1822 ; came to Ogle County Oct. 27, 1836 ; moved to present location in the Spring of 1837 ; married Sarah T. Wilber June 22, 1848; she was born in Bovina, Delaware Co., N. Y., Oct. 25, 1828. They have five children- Willis J., John W., Mary A., George Herbert, and Harry. Mr. W. was Koad Commissioner several years ; has been School Director many years. Mr. and Mrs. Wamsley and their children, Mary A. and George Herbert, are members of the Presbyterian Church. Mrs. W.'s parents, John B. and Angeline (Smith) Wilber came to Buffalo Grove in 1846 ; they are both living now. Mr. W.'s parents, Wm. and Mary Bassett Wamsley, came to this place with their family in October, 1836 ; his father was born in New York State, in August, 1794 ; he died here Sept. 6, 1870. His mother was born at Martha's Vineyard, Mass., She died Aug. 27, 1874, aged 79 years.

WATERBURY EZRA, Son of Daniel and Mary (Stevens) Waterbury, of Pound Ridge, Westchester Co., N. Y. ; he was born at Ballston, Saratoga Co., N. Y., March 14, 1798 ; when four years of age moved with parents to Charlton, Saratoga Co.; at the age of ten years they moved to Delaware Co., N. Y., where he resided until 24 years of age ; Jan. 24, 1822, he married Elizabeth Reynolds, at Andes, Delaware Co., N. Y. ; she was born in Amenia, Dutchess Co., N. Y., in April, 1797 ; after marriage he located at Middletown, Delaware Co., N. Y., and for seven years carried on the business of clothier ; then removed to Andes and there remained until 1848, when he came to Brookville (afterward Lincoln Township) ; engaged in farming until 1864, when he removed to Polo ; they have three children living - Elias B., Calvin and Edwin S. ; the two first named are residents of Polo, the latter is a lawyer at Emporia, Kan. ; two children, dec'd - Caroline, born March 25, 1829, died Nov. 5, 1854, and William Reynolds, born Oct. 31, 1834. died in Belle Isle, Va., prison hospital, Jan. 18, 1864 ; he enlisted in the 7th I. V. Cavalry in 1862, and was taken prisoner ; Mr. Waterbury's father was born July 25, 1764 ; he served in the Revolutionary war, entering the service when quite young; Daniel Waterbury's wife, Mary Stevens, was born in Stamford, Conn., May- 20, 1765 ; they had ten sons and one daughter; three now living - Ezra, Samuel and Mary Ann, now Mrs. James B. Gardner, all residents of this Township ; Mr. Waterbury's grandfather was Daniel ; he was Captain in %e Revolutionary war ; his wife was Ann Bouton ; David Stevens' father of Mrs. W.'s mother, was killed at the age of fifty years during the Revolutionary war, at the battle of Fairfield, Conn. ; his wife's name was Mary Talmage.

WATERBURY FRED M. Farmer ; Sec. 7 ; P. 0. Polo ; owns 119 acres of land, valued at $7,140 ; born in this township Dec. 31, 1850 ; married Ellen E. Healey Oct. 8, 1874; she was born in this township March 16, 1849 ; they have one child - Iva H., born Sept. 19, 1877 ; Mr. Waterbury is a member of the Independent Presbyterian Church of Polo ; his father, John Waterbury, Jr., was born in N. Y. State, Dec. 12, 1820 ; came to Ogle Co. with his father, John, Sr., in an early day ; John, Jr., died Sept. 19, 1871 ; his widow (mother of Fred. M.) now resides in Polo ; she was born in Delhi, Delaware Co., N. Y., in Oct., 1830.

Ivaterbury Homer

IVATERBURY HOMER S. School Teacher; son of James S. and Esther Waterbury, of Schoharie Court House, N. Y., was born Aug. 8, 1838 ; was educated at Union College, N. Y., and graduated in 1863 ; was two years in the army of the James, Co. D, 3d N. Y. C, Gen. Butler commanding ; participated in most of the battles of the campaigns of 1864, in the neighborhood of Petersburg and Richmond ; came West in 1866 ; was six months in Kansas ; taught school two years in the city of Polo; married, January 1, 1869, Miss Annistine Waterbury, daughter of Sam'l and Elizabeth W., who was educated at Delaware Literary Institute, Franklin, Delaware Co., N. Y., under Rev. Geo. Kerr, LL. D. ; taught two years in Rockford Female Seminary, having charge of the Department of Languages ; taught in various places in Wisconsin, Illinois, and five years in Honesdale, Pa. ; hav.; two children - Esther E., born 1870, and Samuel, born 1873.

WEBSTER VIROII. B. Retired Farmer ; P. 0. Polo ; son of Jared and Isabella Webster; was born in 1824, in Stamford, Delaware Co., N. Y.; his sister, Mrs. Rufus Perkins, came to Buffalo Grove in 1840, and in 1858, removed to Kansas ; his family, consisting of father and mother, his brother Alfred and wife, now of New York City, and himself, came in 1844, and settled on a farm where the city of Polo now stands. In 1848, he married Miss Algira Cutts, daughter of Hiram B. and Eunice Cutts, born in 1825, in Goldsboro, Me.; came with parents to the West in 1846 ; they have five children, namely - E. Herbert, Anna F , Eugene C, Mary E. and Albert V. During their long residence they have been identified with the growth and prosperity of the city of Polo.

WILBER TILLIXC^HAST, Farmer ; Sec. 23 ; P. O. Polo ; son of John T. and Polly, of Newport, R. I.; was born Aug. 22, 1808, in Bovina, Delaware Co., N. Y.; came West in 1848 ; settled in Bufialo Tp.; moved to his present farm in 1850 ; owns 80 acres ; value, SCO per acre ;" is a Carpenter by trade ; he married, May 25, 1831, Miss Almira Underwood, daughter of Jonas and Sarah Pine Underwood ; born March 11, 1813, in Broom Co., N. Y.;

Mr. Jonas Underwood served through the war of the Revolution and was at the battle of Bunker Hill ; they have three children - Emily, born June 10, 1832, now Mrs. John J. Wood, of Lanark, 111.; William R., born March 23, 1834, resident of Sarpy Co., Nebraska ; and Ellen, born Aug, 22, 1836, now Mrs. David Anderson, of Bufialo Tp.; Republican ; members of the United Brethren Church.

WIMilAMS CHESTER K. Retired Farmer ; P. 0. Polo ; was born Jan. 13, 1818, and was the son of Ebenezer Williams and Eliza Whitewell, of Brimfield, Hampden Co., Mass.; at the age of 20 he came to Bufialo Grove, this county, and engaged in farming ; some ten years since, he retired from the farm and mov.ed to Polo ; was Supervisor and Postmaster for several years ; Jan. 12, 1865, he married Miss Maria P. Anthony, of Avoca, N. Y.; they have three children living - Kate A., born Nov. 23, 1867; Lucy and Annie, born Oct. 26, 1869 ; Republican, and i

Source changes here: from Portrait and Biographical Album of Ogle County, Illinois, Containing Full Page Portraits and Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens of the County, by Various, published 1886; 6,754 words in this source stream.

Buffalo Township

the limits of the present township of Buffalo. Isaac Chambers and John Ankeny were the first settlers, the latter making the first claim to land in this county in 1830. John Ankeny was a native of Maryland, but came to Illinois in 1818. He was one of three Commissioners appointed in 1829 to locate a State road from Apple River to Osier's Ferry on Rock River, where the city of Dixon now stands. December 25, 1829, the surveying party encamped in what is now known as Buffalo Grove, and taking a fancy to the place, he decided to locate there. Peeling the bark off a tree near the camp-fire, he wrote his name, date, claim, its extent, and his intentions of settling on it with his family. On his return some time afterwards he found Isaac Chambers in possession of a part of what he intended as his claim. The two men .amicably adjusted their differences and no quarrel ensued between them, as reported by some persons. T..C, Ankeny, a son of John Ankeny, in a letter to the editor of the Polo Press, emphatically asserted this fact. Mr. Ankeny remained at the Grove until early in the spring of 1832, when he removed to Elkhorn Grove, in Carroll County. He afterwards, in 1841, removed to Mount Morris, where he died in 1853, and was buried in the cemetery at that place.

Isaac Chambers came to the Grove from the Galena lead mines, and erected the first house in Ogle County. While here his house was opened for the entertainment of travelers, as was also that of Mr. Ankeny, the two being rivals in this respect. Mr. Chambers did not remain long in this vicinity, but in 1831 sold his claim and improvements to Oliver

Forreston Township, where he remained a very short time, and from thence moved to a grove about eight miles northwest of his first settlement at Buffalo Grove, lying in Carroll County, to which was subsequently given the name of Chambers' Grove. A part of his claim lay within Ogle County, and upon that part he built a mill, now in possession of one of the Herbs. Mr. Chambers died on his homestead in 1845, and was buried at the Brookville Cemetery.

Buffalo Township comprises all of township 23 north of range eight, east of the fourth principal meridian, except the southern tier of sections,which in 1880 was taken from it, and with the two tiers of sections lying in township 22, range 8, north of Lee County, was formed into a civil township under the name of Woosung. The grove in which the first settlement was made, as well as the township, derives its name from the fact that a large number of Buffalo bones were found there. The township is considered one of the best in the county, the improvements made being of the highest order.

Among the early settlers of Buffalo Grove, were O. W. Kellogg, Samuel Reed, Elkanah B. Bush, John Brookie, Elisha Doty, Cyrena, Ahira and Harrison Sanford, John D. Stevenson, Pearson Shoemaker, George R. Webster, Stephen Hull, William Merritt, John Waterbury, Solomon Shaver, William Wamsley, Frederick Cushman, B. Beardsley, Thomas Worden, William Nichols, Virgil A. Bogue.

Oliver W. Kellogg and Samuel Reed came with their families in 1834. Mr. Kellogg purchased the claim and improvements of Isaac Chambers, and for many years kept hotel. He was one of the original proprietors of the town of St. Marian, and a man of marked character, strong in his likes and dislikes. For many years he|resided at the Grove, then moved to Dixon, and during the latter years of his life served as a minister of the gospel in the United Brethren Church. He died at Dixon some years ago.

Samuel Reed was from New York. He arrived here with his family April 29, 1831, and immediately proceeded to the erection of his house, which was ready for occupancy on the 2d of May. Quicker work could hardly be done in Chicago. True the house was of logs, the floors of bark stripped off the linn or basswood trees, of the proper length or width, and laid on the level earth, the smooth side down, to prevent curling up or other accidents that might occur from a smooth floor.

Samuel Reed, claims that his father's family was the first one that settled in the county for the expre = purpose of farming. Mr. Reed was a noble type o man, beloved by all. He died on the homestead July 26, 1852. His wife died Nov. 2, 1857, inher | fe 67th year. Both are buried in Rock Spring on ii tery.

Elkanah B. Bush and John Brookie were broujane oe in-law, from Kentucky. They were probably also settlers of 1831. Mr. Bush was the first Postmaster of Buffalo Grove postoffice, and therefore the first - in the county. He remained here until about 1836, when he removed to Missouri. If living, his present residence is unknown. wh

John Brookie remained here but a few years, then moved to Wilson's Mill, in Whiteside County, and from there to St. Louis, where he was when last heard from. He is supposed to be dead, though no positive knowledge of this fact is known by those consulted. 4

Elisha Doty came shortly after the Black Hawk war, from Peoria. He accumulated considerable property which he lost in an unsuccessful venture, = and then went to Tama Co., Iowa, some years ago, where he yet resides.

The Sanford family were from Delaware Co., N._ J., and located here in 1834. Cyrenus, the father, . died on the homestead on which he first settled May 28, 1858, aged 83 years. Itis said at the time of his - death he had living eight children, 90 grand children, and 4o great grand children. Albion moved to the south part of the State where he died. Ahira and Joel W. moved to Oregon where they yet live, Harrison died in Polo, and was buried in the cemetery near that city. 3

John D. Stevenson arrived in August, 1835. He is a native of New York, but came here from Louisi-_ ana, taking his brother's interest in the new town 8 St. Marian. Mr. Stevenson yet resides in the township at the residence of his son-in-law, Samuel H. - Shoop, in Polo, and is a true representative of ther pioneers of Buffalo Grove. aR h'

Pearson Shoemaker is also a pioneer of 1835, and yet resides in Polo, where for many years he has managed the Orion House, of which he is proprietor. 36

Virgil A. Bogue was one of the most noted of the Pioneers, being quite prominent in township and county affairs. He was a peculiar man in many repects. The children both loved and feared him; 1s politeness was such as to win their confidence nd create a desire to be in his company, but they ontinually feared his practical jokes which were iable to be played upon them at any moment. Mr.

ogue was quite a politician, and served the county s one of the Board of County Commissioners, was a member of the Board of Supervisors one or more terms, and also Probate Judge. He was an active man, and died some years ago.

Frederick Cushman came in 1835, purchased the old Kellogg claim and the following year moved with his family. He remained here until 1853 or 1854, when he moved to northern Towa, and from there to Michigan some years later, where he died in 1883.

Geo. D. H. Wilcoxen was from South Carolina, and was a pioneer of 1834. He was a shrewd man, and an earnest Christian. He died Oct. 6, 1862.

The settlement of Buffalo Grove contined to increase until, within a short time, every foot of land was claimed, farms were improved, postoffices established, towns built and thrift and prosperity abounded.

Until 1836 log-houses were the only habitations of the people. During this year the first frame buildings were erected by John D. Stevenson and Wm. Merritt, the latter erecting a dwelling house and the former a store and dwelling combined.

went by, and their last days were better than their To some objects of charity he gave no heed, but to the worthy He removed to Sterling, Whiteside County many

Wm. Walmsley was also a pioneer of 1836, comhe - | OGLE COUNTY. 837 Stephen Hull and family came in 1835, from Delaware Co.,N. Y. He died on the homestead many years ago, but his memory and that of his loved wife, is pleasantly remembered by all who knew them. Marrying young, they raised a large family, while

The first school was at the house of A. W. Kellogg, in the winter of 1834-5. Simon Fallows was the teacher. The first school house was erected during the winter of 1836-7, and served the double purpose of school house and church. It was a frame structure, and served its double purpose until 1858, when it was sold to the United Brethren Church and used by that Church for religious purposes exclusively for two years, when it was sold and converted into a dwelling house.

The people of this township were from the first interested in educational matters, and did all in their power to encourage a liberal education. In 1843 the first public schools were Organized under the State law, the entire township embracing one school district. Wm. M. Mason, Joseph Kellogg, Timothy Perkins, D, L. Henry and Horace Chatfield composed the first board of Trustees. There were but 60 scholars in the district, and the first term of school was taught by Alfred M. Webster, the second term by Chanceford R. Barber, and the amount paid to teachers for the school year was $76.29.

The Rock River Normal School was established at Buffalo Grove in 1753, by Prof. John W. Frisbee. Under his administration the school was a success in every particular. This school is treated of more at length in the educational article on a preceding page. :

The first marriage has generally been thought to have been Sample M. Jurney and Julia Ann, daughter of John Ankeny, in 1832. There is no doubt the marriage of the couple occurred at this time, but it undoubtedly occurred in what is now Carroll County, at Elkhorn Grove. Among the first marriages remembered by the pioneers who have been consulted in the preparation of this work were Wm. Illingworth and Hannah Hall, William Myers and Phebe Hall, Simeon M. Coe, Mr. Dixon and Fannie Reed. These marriages, it is believed, occurred in 1335 or 1836. Virgil A. Bogue and Hannah Nichols were married soon after.

have been sown by his father, John Ankeny, in 1831. Samuel Reed used the first fan for cleaning grain, a very rude instrument, by which he could clean from 20 to 25 bushels per day. The first reaper was used by Mr. Kitchen, in 1834.

O. W. Kellogg and Geo. D. H. Wilcoxen built a saw millon Buffalo Creek in 1837, though it was commenced the previous year. John D. Stevenson subsequently purchased and ran it for some years. This was the first mill in the township.

The first religious services were held at the house of O. W. Kellogg, in the fall of 1835, by a Presbyterian minister, who some years after was drowned at Meredosia, near Port Byron, Rock Island Co. A Rev. Mr. Sugg was said by a writer in the old Mt. Morris Gazette, to have been here in 1834, but no 'one now seems to remember the man. Mr. Sugg was aM. E. minister. He was succeeded on the circuit by Rev. James McKan, who is remembered by the old settlers as preaching at various points in the county. Rev. Barton H. Cartwright was also an early minister here.

N March, 1835, Hugh Stevenson and Oliver W. Kellogg had surveyed at the grove a village, to which, according to J. D. Stevenson, was given the name of St. Marian, in honor of the wife of Mr. Stevenson. Levi Warner was the surveyor. At this time there was no house upon the village plat. Kellogg moved up from the creek an old log

In August, erected a log house for the double purpose of dwelling and store. Into this house he moved and had his first dinner Jan. 1, 1836. While his house was being prepared Mr. Stevenson occupied a partof the house of Mr. Kellogg, in which he kept and sold a few goods. He was the first merchant in Ogle County.

Some time in 1836, Wales, Hunn & Chandler opened the second store in St. Marian, followed by Elijah and Theodore Wrenn, in 1839; L.N. & C. R. Barber, in 1843; Job Arnold, in 1844 ; and Helm & McClure, in 1849.

Before the platting of the village a postoffice had been established here, under the name of Buffalo Grove, with Elkanah P. Bush as Postmastet. The office was on the mail route from Peoria to Galena, by way of Dixon's Ferry. John D. Winters was the mail contractor and carried the mail each way once a week, having a regular stage line on this route. Oliver W. Kellogg was Postmaster under Bush, and the office was kept at his tavern, at the southern edge of Buffalo Grove. Bush soon resigned and Kellogg was appointed and held the office until 1839, in the meantime removing the office to the village. John D. Stevenson was next appointed, but held the office only until April 1, 1840, when Daniel Highley was appointed. He was succeeded by Geo. D. Read January, 1842. Joseph Kellogg came next, Sept. 1, 1846, serving only until the following year, when C. R. Barber was commissioned and served two years. Isaiah Wilcoxen came next and served one year, being followed by Chester K. Williams, who served until 1853, when George D. Read was again appointed. Mr. Read served at the Grove until 1855, when he quietly removed the office to' the new and flourishing village of Polo.

Without the " village blacksmith " no village would be complete. John M. Smith, in 1836, was persuaded to establish the first shop in St. Marian. He remained here about five years, when he concluded - that a fortune awaited him at the lead mines, near Galena, and thither he went. ad suaded to stop and open a shoe shop. He only remained a short time, however. Geo. D. Read was the first regular tailor to make this his home, though an unknown traveling "jour" stopped a short time before Mr. Read and did a little work, and then went on his way rejoicing.

The Methodist Episcopal Church at Buffalo Grove was organized in April, 1835, by Rev. James Mc- Kean, [with five members - Geo. D. H. Wilcoxen, Annie Wilcoxen, Nancy A. Wilcoxen, O. W. Kellogg, Mary Smith. Mr. Wilcoxen was made leader and services were usually held at his house. At the first quarterly meeting he was asked how many persons he would lodge. " One for every puucheon in my floor," he responded. In 1840 the Church had a membership of 40. In 1850 their first house of worship was erected and dedicated. Previous to this time the congregation worshipped at the school house, moving there from the house of Mr. Wilcoxon.

The old church is well remembered by the pioneers yet living as this is written. In the winter of 1884-5 a number of reminiscences appeared in the Polo Press in reference to the church, the people who worshipped there and theold church bell. "The first services," An "'Early Settler" writes, "were held before the building was completed, but there was a floor and the sides were enclosed. Seats improvised for the occasion were of blocks and boards that had not yet been fashioned into the straight-backed pews. The windows were without sash or glass, but it was early in the autumn and the day fine. From every point came men and women to pafticipate in the i te spiring exercises of the good old " quarterly meetin ag Another early settler wrote of the organization of the sewing society and the purchase of a bell, the first in Ogle County. What atime the young people had in raising the money for that purpose and with what pleasure they now recall the scenes of long ago!

The Baptists and Congregationalists also had organizations in the village, the former being organized in 1840; the latter was finally merged into the Independent Presbyterian Church of Polo.

In five or six years after the platting of the village the name was changed from St. Marian to Buffalo Grove, the name of the postoffice. For years it was quite prosperous, being well supplied with stores, shops and other conveniences, and in 1850 had about 1,000 inhabitants, with as fair prospects as any inland town in the State, but the railroad line was surveyed about a mile away and on its line a new town sprung up, and to it removals at once began to be made and soon all business was taken away, its postoffice removed and Buffalo Grove became " Old Town," and as such it is yet spoken of, the older citizens holding its name and deeds in kindly remembrance, while the children wonder what " might have lg the young cities of Northern Illinois, is that of Polo. It was laid out and the original " plat certified to March 21, 1853, by Charles W. Joiner, County Surveyor of Ogle County. The town was laid out "'partly on the northeast quarter of section No. 16, and partly on the southeast quarter of section No. 9, in Township 23 North Range 8, east of the fourth principal meridian." It was bounded on the north, on the west side of the railroad, by North Street; on the east side of the railroad by Dixon Street; on the east by Prairie Street ; south by Webster Street, and west by Division Street. The town was named Polo in honor of the great Venetian traveler, Marcus Polo. It is the only one of the name in the United States. Benj. B.

The early history of this town is very difficult to determine. Like Topsy, it naturally "just growed." People here saw it grow, but paid little attention to its development. The first public sale of lots was made in May, 1853. - The plat this time had not been recorded, nor was it recorded until March 5, 1854, neither had the railroad been completed. The latter was coming, of that they were assured, and that a station was to be located here was also assured ; therefore these wise, eager purchasers of lots. It was felt by many that the old town of Buffalo Grove was doomed, though some living in that village determined to fight against it, to fight against fate.

opened a small stock of goods in his house, and thus became the first merchant in the place. He also commenced the Jerection of a brick building, completing the basement late in the fall, or early in the winter following , into which he removed his stock of goods, adding soon after a new stock. Probably one or two other houses were erected during the same year.

In 1854 the work of improvement really began, and during the season a large number of buildings were erected. Daniel Higley came up from the Grove, and, in the room vacated by Mr. Aplington, opened a small stock of goods, being the second merchant in the place.

Aranda Kellogg, in the winter of 1853-4 commenced the erection of a building to be used as a hotel. It was complete and ready to entertain the public in the spring of 1854. About the same time John Jay built a public house on the corner of Franklin and Dixon Streets. In 1855 Harrison Sanford built a brick building on the corner of Franklin and Mason Streets, which was opened as a hotel, and known as the Sanford House. Pearson Shoemaker, a year or two after, opened another house near the railroad depot, which for many years has been known as the Orient House. The Exchange Hotel was opened in 1872 by Col. J. H. Prescott, who yet continues at its head.

For about five years the growth of Polo was quite rapid, the hard times following the panic of 1857 then had its effect on the place and its growth was checked. All that time every branch of business was well represented and a bright future might well have been prophesied. Of one thing it can be said, the place has never taken a backward step. Improvements, though slow, have always been sure, and as this is being written, (in the fall of 1885), the city enjoys greater prosperity than ever before.-

Incorporation

In 1857 the General Assembly passed an Act to incorporate the town of Polo. A meeting was held in the basement of the store occupied by Zenas Aplington & Co., April 16, 1857, for the purpose of voting on the quesiton of the acceptance of the charter. There were 84 votes cast for acceptance and 43 against it. In order to save time and the expense of another election, at the same time town officers were voted for, Zenas Aplington, John B, Moore,

Cornelius Woodruff, }. M. Reed, James Brand, S. E. | Treat and H. N. Murray were elected Trustees The Board organized April 18, by the choice of Zenas Aplington as President and J. B. Moore, Clerk.

Polo was under its town charter until 1869. Dur- | ing the session of the Legislature in the winter of | 1868-9, an act was passed to incorporate the City of Polo. February 27, following an election was held | on the question of its adoption. There were 190 votes cast for adoption and 137 against. :

By the terms of the charter the President, Trustees and Police Magistrate of the town of Polo were constituted Mayor, Aldermen and Police Magistrate | | of the city. Under this provision the following| | named were the first officers of the city: John D. Campbell, Mayor; Solomon Beard, Henry D. Parmalee, Lyman Preston, Reuben Wagner, E. B. Gallagher, Geo. Lawson, Aldermen; Hamilton Norton, Police Magistrate; S. Beard, City Clerk.

The license question, so far as it relates to th sale of spiritous, vinous or malt liquors, has bee almost the sole issue in charter elections. In 1859, (it would seem preliminary to the granting of lincenses), on the r5th of October, a police department was established, consisting of four policemen and a night watchman. On the 28th of November, George Weaver and Walter Carpenter were " elected to have licenses to sell spirituous liquors." In 1860 license was again granted for the sale of spirituous, vinous or malt liquors on payment by each person applying, the sum of $250, and giving bonds to keep an orderly house, and allow no gambling, under any circumstances, in their houses. License for beer and ale was fixed at $4o.

In 1864 license was refused, since which time none was ever granted. The city is one of the most quiet and orderly in the country, having no need of a police department. At present the Street Commissioneris ex-officio Marshal of the city, and performs | all the duties of both offices. The liquor law is pretty generally enforced by the authorities. -

Post Office

The Buffalo Grove post office was removed to this place in 1855, and its name changed to Polo. Geo. D. Read was postmaster on its removal here and served until 1861, when Hamilton Norton was appointed. Mr. Norton was succeeded by John W. Clinton, April, 1875, and was in turn succeeded by

Religious

The city of Polo is well supplied with church edifices, several of the leading denominations being represented, including Methodist, Episcopal, Baptist, Presbyterian, Lutheran, German Baptist, United Brethren in Christ, Catholic, and Evangelical Association.

The Methodist Episcopal Church dates its beginning at 1836, when a class was organized at Buffalo Grove, and where services were held until 1855, when they removed to Polo. In 1859, the society erected its house of worship, in which it yet assembles Sabbath after Sabbath, for the worship of Almighty God. The Church is in a very prosperous condition in every way, with a membership of 180. Rey. H. T. Clendening is the present pastor, and is serving his second year. The Sunday School is also flourishing, with an enrollment of 160. R. G. Shumway is Superintendent.

The Independent Presbyterian Church is an oute growth of the old Congregational Church of Buffalo Groye, It was organized May 5, 1848, with rz members. Rey. Calvin Gray first supplied the Church and was succeeded by Rev. Wm. Todd. In the spring of 1855 the society moved to Polo, and on the 4th day of July of that year the corner stone of their large and pleasant house of worship was erected. The building, however, was not fully completed for two years, being duly dedicated Aug. 7, 1857. The Church has had a prosperous existence, and now numbers 155 members, with the following named officers: Rev. Alex. McDougall, Pastor; D. M. Leal, H. D. Parmalee, M. M. Trumbauer, J. W. Clinton, J. L. Reed, Geo. Murray, H. D. Barber, H. Magree, Thomas Hamilton, Elders; R. M. Pearson, I. H. Trumbauer, Wm, Haines, D. M. Leal, Deacons; J. W. Clinton, Clerk. The Pastors, since Rev. Wm. Todd, have been Revs. A. Hyde, Robert Proctor, James Vincent, J. L. Granger, Alex. Allison and Alex. McDougall.

The Baptist Church was organized at the Grove in 1840, with a membership of rs. In 1870 reorganization was effected, and a neat church edifice was erected in Polo, at a cost of $7,000. At this time Alex. Lawson and C. C, Walmsly were elected deacons, and have continued to act as such to th present time. On account of a large number of removals, the membership has been reduced, now numbering but 135. The Church was pastorless in the fall of 1885. The Sunday School is maintained, Miss Wood being Superintendent.

Lhe Episcopal Church was organized July 9, 1858, with 16 members. A house of worship was commenced in November following, but was not completed and consecrated till December, 1862. The society has virtually disbanded, and in 1855, sold its house of worship to the German Baptists.

The United Brethren in Christ effected an organization in 1863, with a membership of 75, and at once erected a house of worship at a cost of $3,000. The society flourished for some years, numbering in 1878, about 170 members. A large number of its membership withdrew a few years ago, leaving the society weak numerically, so that its present membership is but 25. Services are held each Sabbath, the morning hour being devoted to prayer, with preaching at night. Rev. Mr. Beatty is the present Pastor.

where meetings were held until the erection of their handsome church edifice in 1872. The building cost $17,000. Prosperity has attended the Church here from the beginning, its membership at present being 175. Rev. T. F. Reeser is Pastor. The Sunday School has an enrollment of 200. M. Snyder is Superintendent.

The Catholic denomination in this city dates its origanization from 1858, when they erected a house of worship at a cost of $1,500. It has quite a large membership.

The Evangelical Association have had an organization here for many years, meeting for worship in the Episcopal, Methodist Episcopal and Presbyterian churches previous to the erection of their house of worship in 1878. The building cost about $3,500. Wm. Neitz is the present Pastor. The Church numbers about 35. Ambrase Schell is Superintendent of the Sunday School which has an average attendance of about 70.

Secret And Benevolent Societies

Mystic Tie Lodge, No. 187, A. F. & A. M, was organized under dispensation November 13, 1855, and received a charter bearing date October 6, 1856. 'Phere were nine charter members, with James C. Luckey, W. M:; Robert Lawson, S. M.; Allen C. Mason, J. W. The charter members are all dead, save Rev. J. H. Moore, now in Dakota, and W. B. Chatfield, now in Chicago. Meetings of the Lodge were held until February 27, 1856, in the old Normal School building at Buffalo Grove, when, in connection with the Odd Fellows, a small hall was fitted up on the north side of Mason, near Division Street. In April 1857, the Lodge moved to Moshier's Hall on the east side of Division Street, north of Mason Street, where it remained only till the following January, when it moved to the new Odd Fellows hall, on Franklin Street. In 1868 the Lodge erected one of the neatest halls in the State, the only one, that is known to be on the ground floor. It is located on Franklin, between Mason and Locust. Up to the present time the Lodge has lost 18 of its members by death. Its

Polo Lodge, No. 194, 1. O. O. F., was instienbed: March 73, 1856, in a small hall on Mason Street, with Dr. Robert Fisher, N. G.; Ira Demandet, V. G.; B. W. Walkey, Sec.;. John H. Jay, Treas. In 1858, the lodge added the third story to Woodruff's stone building, on Franklin Street, and fitted it up for a lodge room, at a cost of $1,700. Here it remained for many years. It now meets in a hall west of the Exchange Bank. The Lodge is very prosperous, with 88 members, and quite a large amount of money in its treasurey. In the fall of 1855 its principal officers were J. W. Allaben, N. G.; I. F. Bassett, V. G.;-Robert. Anderson, "R.°S; ie) seaman Clopper, P. S.; Henry Wolf, Treas.

Polo Post, No. 8&4, was instituted Sept. 15, 1880, with 21 charter members. While not numerically very strong, numbering at present but 27, the Post - has done a good work. Since its organization it has taken charge of the decoration services at this place. The present officers are Frank J. Crawford, Com. ; D. E. Stephens, S. V. C.; Peter McKerrall, J. \V. C.; J. H. Brubaker, Adj.; Cyrus Nicodemus, Q. M.

Polo Camp, No. 34, M. W.A.,was organized in the summer of 1883, with ten charter members. This is an insurance order, founded upon sound business principles. Its present membership is 34, with the following officers: Wm. Trotter, Consul; C. B. Phelps, Advisor; G. H. Butts, Clerk; J. A. Davison, Banker. '

1879 this club was merged into the Women's Protective Association, and in 1882 the W. C. T. U. was formed and made auxiliary to the State Union. The ladies connected with these societies have done

_ much for the temperance cause in Polo. They have paid into the Library Association $125, in addition to much other benevolent work. Mrs. E. A .Herrick is the present President of the Union, and Mrs. Eva Treat, Recording Secretary. It has a membership of 50.

Lhe Young Women' Christian Ti emperance Union was organized in September, 1885. Miss Ada Mason is President, and Miss Emma Spear, Recording Secretary.

Youths' Temperance Alliance - For many years a Youths' Temperance Alliance has been in existence. Meetings are held alternately in each of the churches of the city, the members of the Sunday-school in the church in which held being expected to make all

Educational

The first school in Polo was in the winter of 1854-5, when Miss Lucy A. Bassett opened a private school, teaching that winter and the following summer. John Savage taught in the fall and also in the winter of 1855-6, In April, 1856, school district, No. 2, of Buffalo Township, was organized, including the entire town of Polo. Rey. J. H. Moore, L. S. Allen and John Jay were elected Directors, Arrangements were made with the Trustees of the Presbyterian Church for the basement of the church for school purposes, and in the summer of 1856 Helen Bogue was employed as teacher. She was followed in the winter of 1856-7 by Alfred M. Webster. In the spring of 1857 the district was divided, and all that part of the town south of Mason Street was organized into a district known as No. 9 of Buffalo Township. In this district a small, onestory brick building was erected. In District No. 2, the basement of the church' was used tintil the consolidation of the district and the erection of the new school building.

General Assembly of the State, consolidating the two districts into an independent school district, and constituting Dr. Wm. W. Burns, Morton D. Swift and Andrew M. Hitt the first Board of Education. Plans and specifications were asked for by the Board for a school building. Alexander Smith, of Chicago, presented a plan which was adopted, and he was appointed to superintend its construction, The building was located, by vote of the people, on Block 8, Barber's Addition and was erected at a cost of about $20,000. It is a handsome structure, of blue limestone.

Prof. Luman B. Seale was the first Principal in the new building, which was opened in the fail of 1867. In the spring of 1868 he resigned and Prof. Joshua Thorpe was appointed. In April, 1870, Prof. Joseph H. Freeman succeeded Mr. Thorpe and served until May, 1874, when Prof. H. H. Smith became Principal and remained until September, 1876, when Prof. Freeman returned. He resigned in 1879, since which time M. Moore and H.C. Forbes served until the fall of 1885, when Prof. R. W. Burton, from Janesville, Wis., was appointed Superintendent and Principal. Prof. Burton is assisted by the following named: Miss Julia Waterbury, assistant in High School; Misses A. W. Steele, A. M: Vansil, Kate Phelps, E. Wolf, Jennie Antrim, Mary Devine, Anna Gibbs and E. F. Barber. : The Board of Education consists of R. G. Shumway, B. H. Barber and M. E. Schryver.

The first class was graduated in 1872, since which time there have been 120 persons receiving diplomas as graduates of this school, many of whom are now occupying responsible positions in various walks of life.

From the report of the County Superintendent of Public Schools, for the year ending June 30, 1885, the following interesting items are gleaned in relation to the schools of Polo: There were 729 persons under the age of 2r years, of whom 536 were over 6 years of age. Of this number 4o2 were enrolled in the public schools. One male and nine female teachers were employed, the salaries paid ranging from $36 to $155.55. The school-house is valued at $25,000. The tax levied for school purposes was

Johnson & Co., in 1857, sold exchange on Eastern banks in connection with their dry goods trade. L. F, King commenced the business in 1865, and continued until 1869, when he sold out to the owners of the Exchange Bank.

In the fall of 1868, Reuben Wagner commenced the business, and in the spring of 1869, formed a partnership with W. T. Schell. The firm did business under the name of Exchange Bank of Wagner & Schell. They occupied a building one door west of the present Exchange building. In the,fall of 1870, they erected the present building, and moVed into it in the spring of 1871, at the same time organizing a National Bank, known as the Exchange National Bank, with a capital stock of $60,000, which subsequently was raised to $80,000. R.G. Shumway, who hadestablished a private bank some time previously became associated with this bank. Reuben Wagner was President; H.W. McClure, Vice-President W. T.Schell, Cashier. The bank does a large business, its deposits e held until January, 1884,when he was elected Presdent. Mr. Wagner succeeded Mr. Shumway as Viceresident until the election of Mr. John Bingaman to that position in October, 1885. Mr. Schell has retained his position as Cashier continuously since the organization of the bank.

Barber Bros. & Co., are successors to Barber & /Trumbauer, who established the business in 1874. The firm does a heavy business and is strong financially. In 1884 they erected a magnificent block in which to do business, and now have one of the finest and best arranged banking houses in this vicinity. 3

Fire Department

The first ordinance in relation to the Fire Department was passed Aug. 12, 1859. It provided that "every person in said corporation (Polo) who shall have or keep a store, shop, office, or other places of business, shall furnish a common bucket, keep the same at all times filled with water in such store, shop, office or other place of business, for the purpose of extinguishing fires. "

In 1883, acomplete Department was organized, and an engine and hose-cart purchased at an expense of about $1,300. An Engine Company composed of 24

The Company subsequently purchased atitsown expense another hose cart for practice. A building for the use of the Department has lately been erected at a cost of $1,000.

Library Association

'This Association was organized in May, 1871, and Chanceford R. Barber, Leavitt Moore, Wayland S. Goodhue, Rev. J. H. Moore, Hon. John D. Campbell, Prof. J. H. Freeman and Col. M. D. Swift, Directors. The stock of the Association was fixed at $5 a share. Eleven public spirited citizens purchased a building for the use of the Library, paying therefor

Business Interests

Polo is a live business city, almost every branch of trade being represented. The dry goods trade is represented by Strickler & Kridler; Myer Bros. &Co., A. & H. H. Thomas and V. 8S. Shoop, each of whom carry a line of shoes; F. A. Greeting, W. A. Cun- |

Woolsey and D. W. Beard, represent the grocery trade. The stock carried by some of these firms is very large. In the drug trade is found J. L. Spear, B. M. Nye and H. E. Donaldson. Spear and Nye with their drugs. L. F. Thomas also has books and stationery in connection with paints, oils and notions. - C. A. Wolf and S. Metz carry a fullline of boots and - shoes, while the clothing trade is represented by E.

D. T. Isham and Mr. Brubaker, while the lumber trade is monopolized by the Minnesota Lumber Co. Mrs. Wynn, Mrs. Atkins, Mrs. Middleton and Miss Odgers are milliners. In coal and wood, Zeakle &

Helm and S. W. Clark & Co. are dealers. Miss Etta Hazeltine carries a line of stationery, with all the latest periodicals of the day. H. Wales jr, &

Miscellaneous

The Polo Manufacturing Company was organized in 1874, under the general law of the State, with a capital stock of $25,000. Its object was the manufacture of the King-Funk Harvester, invented by Lauranus F. King and improved by H. M. Funk, both citizens of Polo. A large and commodious manufactory and warehouse was erected, just south of the corporate limits of the city. The company was subsequently changed to the Russell Harvester Company and its business continued until the summer of 1885. when for some cause it was forced to suspend, and W. T. Schell was appointed receiver.

Lhe Polo Harvester Company was also organized in 1874, for the purpose of manufacturing the Porter Harvester, invented by Henry Porter, of Polo. Shops and warehouses were erected by the company on Dixon Street, and a good business carried on for a time. It has also suspended.

1872. Its first Board of Directors were Francis G. Jones, President; A. J. Sanborn, Secretary; E. S. Waterbury, Treasurer; A. F, Moore, Jordan Lawrence, C, G. Holbrook, Elias Osterhoudt, C. W. Sammis, W. M. Mason. The Company have done a large business, giving the farmers of the township good, safe and reasonable insurance, James L. Reed is the present Secretary.

The Patrons of Jfusbandry Soint Stock Assoctation of Polo was organized under the general laws of the State, Jan. 23, 1876, for a period of 99 years. The capital stock was fixed at $1,000, divided into shares of $10 each. The stock was-taken by 83 persons. The object of the Association was declared to be for the purpose of supplying the Patrons of Husbandry, or others who might desire, with agricultural im plements and all other supplies as required by farmers products as deemed advisable; thus doing away with middle men, whose profits weze thought to be exorbitant. In January, 1877, its capital stock was increased to $3,000. After a few years experience in the business the company ceased to operate.