Byron Township

Byron Township

This village, situated on a horse -shoe bend of the Rock River in the northern part of the county, is one of the earliest settled localities, is favored by features of unusual value to its development, and will, without doubt, become one of the best towns on the river. For many years it labored under great disadvantages, having no railroad or capital to improve its water power, and in 1877, being visited by a conflagration which leveled to the ground the new growth which it had attained under the stimulus of the railroad.

About the first of July, 1835, Jared W. Sanford came up Rock River from Dixon, on horseback, en roufe (or Rockford - then called "Midway." Noting the excellent water privilege a mile west of the present site of Byron, on Leaf River, he laid claim to it by planting there a claim-stake, and proceeded on up the river. His brother, Joseph, and Perry Norton were then working on Kent's mill at Midway, and when told of the beautiful country south, they were induced to go down and examine it.

Mr. Norton still resides one and a half miles north of Byron, and is the oldest living resident. An account of his trip to the " far West," as it was then called, may be of some interest, showing, as it does, the vast changes time has made. From ocean to ocean is now but a pleasant ride of seven days, in palace coaches. Mr. Norton was from April 26 to May 26, 1835, in traveling from New York to Galena. The route was : to Buffalo by canal, to Detroit bv steamboat, across Michigan to Chicago by stage - all passage seats to Chicago were taken fifteen days in advance, such was the multitude seeking Western homes - from Chicago to Ottawa by stage. Ottawa had one tavern, one store, a few dwellings on the south side of the Illinois River, one on the north, and one between the Fox and Illinois Rivers. He went to Paw Paw Grove by private conveyance, and thence to Dixon on foot. Dixon consisted of a tavern, kept by a man named Black, in the old fort of the Black Hawk War, and five or six dwellings. He then went by stage to Galena, where he hired out to a Mr. Brush, agent for Germanicus Kent, of Midway. He arrived there on the eighth day of June. Rockford then consisted of two families and eight or ten young men ; Mr. Kent on the west, and Mr. Haight on the east side of the river. Mr. Kent had begun improvements there in the Fall of 1834; had commenced building a dam across the creek, near the Holland (now the Tinker) place. During the season of Mr. Norton's arrival immigration became more general ; among the settlers were Montague Dunbar, Fox Wood and family, Boswell and family,Thatcher Blake, still a resident of Rockford, and Joseph Sanford, who came in the Fall or Winter of 1834.

As before stated, Joseph Sanford, Jared W, Sanford and Perry Norton went down the river to the site of Byron, about July 10, 1835, and while there they claimed land to the amount of nearly two sections, on the southwest side of the river. They returned to Midway the same day. Joseph Sanford decided to continue work for Mr. Kent for a year, so J. W. Sanford and Mr. Norton returned to their claim with a horse and yoke of oxen, and established their claim by laying the foundation for two cabins. This, rude as it must have been, inquired four days' labor. Indians and mosquitoes were plenty, though the latter were by far the more troublesome. On the fifth day the two settlers returned to Midway, where Mr. Norton met, unexpectedly, his father and brother J. W. Norton. The former afterwards became a resident of Byron Township, where he still resides. Mr. Norton needed oxen to cultivate his land, and to purchase them he borrowed $100, each, of his father and Joseph Sanford. The latter was a partner in the claim. The next thing was to buy the oxen. Neighbors Kent and Haight had none to sell - other neighbors, where were they .' At

Dixon's Ferry, Cherry Grove - forty miles away - Buffalo Grove, Washington Grove, and on Old-Man Creek (now Kyte River). But no cattle were found for sale at any of these places, and Mr. Norton finally found three yoke of oxen at Indian Creek, fifteen miles north of Ottawa. For these he paid $45, $52.50 and $55. He also bought a plow and barrel of flour. In order to get these home he must have a cart, and, to make one, a friend sawed two circles from an oak log for wheels. The return road was a strange one and he received frequent directions from passing Indians. Much trouble was experienced by the settlers in keeping the cattle at home. When they were let out to pasture they would frequently stray away forty or fifty miles.

About the middle of October, M. M. York, who bought an interest in the claim, P. T. Kimball, - Rogers, and Mr. Norton returned to Fairview from Midway, to make rails for fencing their claim. They brought flour, bacon and coff'ee and made saleratus biscuits with the river water. Here they lived in a rail shanty and the wagon box for twenty-three days.

The Pottawattomie Indians frequented the river, which they called the " Sini-sepo," or Rock River, whence the name "Sinnissippi." The settlers obtained a log trough which the Indians had hollowed out to hold maple sap, or "sugar water," and used it as a canoe for crossing the river. Being cut square at one end, it was known as the bob-tailed canoe. Wagons were ferried across the river for travelers in this rude canoe. The present woods of that vicinity have grown up since that time, and it was necessary to obtain logs from the other (north) side of the river. ^^

They returned to Midway to pass the Winter, and when Mr. Norton returned in the next March, he found M. M. York, P. T. Kimball, Sebra Phillips and J. Sanford in a little log cabin of about ten by fourteen feet in size. This was the first house in the township, and was just across the river, opposite the village.

Here Mr. Norton took up his abode, sleeping on a wagon board at night, with boots for a pillow and overcoat for a blanket. This exposure resulted in an attack of the ague. In this Spring other settlers came in. L. O. Bryan, Silas St. John Mix, Asa Spaulding and others came in April. These filled the cabin unto overflowing, so that Messrs. Kimball, Bryan and Norton moved up and across the river, about one and a half miles. Here they built a log shanty near and northeast of Mr. Norton's present residence. To make this log house two tiers of rails were built up, leaving a space between them of one and a half feet. This was filled in with prairie grass, making a warm house. The roof was made of " shakes," * while the door was made by hanging up a blanket. Cooking was done out of doors, and a cow was purchased to furnish milk. The pioneers then began to think themselves living in fine style.

David Juvenall with his family, from Sangamon, 111.; Andrew Shepard, an uncle of Mr. Norton, with his family, from Ohio, and William Illingworth, arrived in May, 1836. J. L. Spaulding and - Kizer came soon after, and Simon S. Spaulding came in October. In the Spring of 1835, John Whitaker settled at Black Walnut Grove, where he resided with his family until his death. His son, William J., now resides there, having married the only daughter of Silas St. J. Mix. Another son, Solomon, is living near by, both in good circumstances. There are two daughters, Mary, who married John Millis, and Julia, the wife of Stephen B. Shuart. Peter Smith and James Scott also made claims at this grove in the Fall of 1835, ^wo or three miles southeast of Byron. Scott sold out to Dauphin Brown and S. Patrick in 1837.

Mr. Silas St. John Mix first came April 10, 1836, but returned to Jacksonville for his family, having emigrated there from Bradford County, Pa. Mr. * Shingles, about four feet long, split out of logs.

The claim of Mr. Norton and Jared Sanford on the north side of the river was divided and the site of Byron included in Mr. Sanford's portion. This' he disposed of to Miner M. York and Joseph Sanford. Mr. Mix built his (the first) house within the village site during that Fall. It is now used as the residence of his son William.

October 29, Lucius Reed arrived with his family. John Morrison, - Slavin, Lewis Carr and Samuel Patrick came in 1836. Seth Noble, a wealthy farmer of Marion Township, came in the Spring of that year.

Much trouble was experienced on account of claim-jumpers. The first prominent conflict of this kind was in 1837, between Wm. D. Johnson, a settler, and the notorious Aikens, Carrs and Morrison.

The first election was held in August, 1836, at Fairview, to elect precinct and county officers. This was then a portion of Jo Daviess County, and Col. Wight, of Galena, passed through on an electioneering tour. He made stump speeches wherever he could obtain a hearing, and furnished the proper papers and directions for holding 'elections. He was a candidate for the State Legislature. Mr. Moses Hallett, candidate for the office of sheriff, also visited Fairview, and both obtained the thirteen votes polled there, as the voters knew of no opposing candidates. A local justice and constable were elected. Mr. Norton was chosen to carry the poll books to Galena, a distance of over eighty miles.

Erastus Norton and family came to Byron November i, 1836. Doctor A. E. Hurd - the first physician - and Hiram Horton came during that Winter. " Deacon " Brewster, with a family of seven daughters and two sons (James and Mortimer), came in 1837. A large number of settlers came that year. We can not attempt to name them all, but a few have been remembered, among whom were Isaac Norton and family, consisting of his wife and five daughters (his four sons were already in the West). Col. Dauphin Brown and family, consisting of three sons and five daughters, who was a resident of Marion Township ; the first barn in the township), now gone ; Charles Tanner, Joshua White and James M. Clayton, of Marion Township ; F. A. Smith ; Allen Woodburn, still living on his place, three and one half miles north of the village ; Hiram Maynard, deceased, and many others.

Jared W. Sanford lived at Byron until within five years, when he moved to and died in Kansas. Joseph Sanford is still living. Perry Norton lives a mile and a half north of Byron. M. M. York now lives at Fort Scott, Kansas. Parton T. Kimball now lives at Rockford. Sebra Phillips died in this state. L. O. Bryan died in Marion Township. Asa G. Spaulding lives in Rockford. Andrew Shepherd died in this state. David Juvenall died in Marion Township. Silas St. John Mix, the oldest resident of the village, resides in Byron, aged seventy-nine years, and still retains all his business and physical faculties, unimpaired. His portrait appears in this work. I. S. Knowlton and T. P. Parker, still residents near Byron, came in the Spring of 1838.

For a long time, Dixon, twenty-five miles distant, was the nearest postoffice. The settlers took turns in going for the mail, once a week. When Frink & Walker established a stage route along the river, between Dixon and Rockford, the local post-office was established, and as the settlement was then called Bloomingville, that name was chosen for the post-office. The Postmaster General, however, suggested that the name be changed, as there was already a " Bloomington " and " Bloomingdale " in the state. It was then decided to call it Byron, a name it has since held. Asa G. Spaulding was the first postmaster, who was followed by Mr. Mix. Then Albert Wilbur was made postmaster, and Mr. Mix appointed his deputy, followed by John H. White as nominal postmaster. Mr. Mix succeeded him and still continues, efficiently, in that office.

The first saw mill was erected by Messrs. Sanford Brothers & Brown, in 1837. The first grist mill by William Wilkinson, of Buffalo, N. Y., who commenced building it in the Fall of 1837 and completed it during the next year. In 1837, it was sometimes necessary to go as far as Dayton, on Fox River, near Ottawa, to Elkhorn Grove or Newburg, on the Kishwaukee River, to have milling done. In 1835 and '36, supplies were obtained from Galena or Chicago. The first salt hauled from the latter place cost fifteen dollars per barrel. The first stirring plows used here were manufactured at Buffalo, N. Y., by Wilkinson & Sons. These were very good in a clay soil, but almost useless on the prairies of Ogle County. In plowing with such implements, knolls were left wherever a turn was^nade, making, finally at the edges of the field, quite an embankment. Deere, of Grand de Tour, made the first plows suitable for this country.

The Village. - As stated, its site was first claimed by Jared W. Sanford and Perry Norton ; allotted to Mr. Sanford in division, and transferred to Joseph Sanford and M. M. York. These two admitted Asa G. Spaulding, S. St. J. Mix and James L. Spaulding as partners, and at the time of the land sale Ebenezer Brown, as agent, bid in the land, and deeded it, equally divided, to the members of the company. Mr. Mix sold the first goods, in his house, in the Summer of 1837. The house of Mr. Mix has been called the first one in the village, which is true, although a Mr. Irvin had a shanty of logs, in which he sold some goods which he had brought from Canada. The next house was one which Mr. Kimball built for Lucius Reed. In this house the latter kept the first tavern. The next buildings were a house and blacksmith shop which Mr. Bradbury built in the eastern part of the town. The first regular store was built in the Spring of 1838, by Isaac Norton and his son, Hamilton. The first regular hotel was built by Samuel and Dudley Wood. It is a two-story brick building, and now used as the Pacific House, by Mrs. Brindley. The first ferry was established by J. W. Sanford and Miner York. It is now operated by James Cattanach.

Three years ago Byron Township voted to appropriate $15,000 for building a bridge across the river. At a special meeting of the Board of Supervisors, an appropriation of $12,500 was made for the same purpose, but at the next regular meeting of the board, the movement was re-considered and voted down. In the meantime, the township commissioners had made a contract with Mr. Fishier, of Elmira, N. Y., for $27,500. He sub-let the stone work to Mr. Boone, who put up the abutments, but suspended work when the appropriation was denied them. It v/as to be a suspension bridge of six hundred feet, having one pier. The present indications are that Mr. Fishier will complete his contract, and call on the township to fulfill their part of it. Hopes are still entertained of receiving assistance from the county treasury.

The Chicago 6^ Pacific Railroad Company first intended running a nairowguage railroad from Chicago to Elgin, but finally decided to run a broad- guage road from Chicago to Byron. Subscriptions were circulated four years since, by A. O. Campbell, F. A. Wheelock, E. H. Evans and others. Among the principal subscribers were Hiram Gitchell, $1,200; A. O. Campbell, Dr. Joseph Blount, E. H. Evans, I. S. Knowlton and W. S. Ercanbrack, $1,000 each ; John Kosier, Junius Rogers and many others subscribed very liberally. This place took $24,500 stock. The public spirit of the citizens of Byron in this matter is very unusual and highly commendable. The road was completed to the river at noon, March 19, 1875. An extra amount of $5,000 was found necessary to secure the bridge across the river. This Byron's people advanced to the American Bridge Company, and the cars commenced running to Byron in the Fall of 1875. The bridge company and citizens were to have the proceeds from Byron station until the debt was paid. This the bridge company secured, but nothing has yet been received by those who advanced the needed $5,000. The bridge is nearly 800 feet long, with three piers, and is a combination of wood and iron.

The company held a meeting for organization in February, 1876. Mr. Campbell was for two years a director of the road. The report shows the road to have been in a prosperous condition, although it is now in the hands of a receiver, J. M. Whitman. The local agent is Mr. A. B. Thompson.

The Fire. - The terrible conflagration which visited Byron on the night of November 13, 1877, swept out of existence nearly all of the business portion of the village. On the morning of Wednesday, the full sweep of the destructive element was made visible. Under the impetus given to the town by the completion of the railroad, many new store buildings had been erected on Second Street; all that were left on that street between Walnut and Union Streets, were Watson's grocery, Rogers' bank, George Kosier's hotel, and George Eddy's dwelling. Where others had been, were piles of blackened walls and gaping cellars.

Men and women were viewing in sorrow the places where years of toil and the gathered souvenirs of a life-time were heaped in ashes and smouldering timbers, never to be replaced. Women looked with tear-stained faces, and men nerved themselves again with courage to commence life's struggle anew, with nothing but hope to cheer and a God above to help.

The fire originated in the rear of Thompson & Kennedy's drug store. About II o'clock, P. M., some kerosene and turpentine which were stored in that part of the building were set on fire, and all efl"orts to stay its progress proved unavailing. Mr. Thompson rushed into his store, grasped his books, but, blinded and choked by the smoke, barely reached the door. G. W. Hawks and family, who occupied the second story for a dwelling, escaped without hat or bonnet; every thing in this building was a total loss. Next west, H. G. Stout's building, with his shoe shop, and J. R. Sensor's clothing store below, and Mr. Stout's residence above, were burned. Mr. Stout was badly burned in attempting to recover some of his household goods. Next west was Wm. Mix's dry goods and grocery store and the post-office. Mr. Mix saved a portion of his stock, but the mail bags and office were burned. The last building burned on the west side was Mr. Eddy's. Mrs. Wilbur and family occupied the upper story ; not more than half their goods were saved.

The flames spread from the place they originated, across an eighteen-foot alley, east, to B. Kelsey's furniture store and dwelling above, leaving the occupants but little time to remove any goods. The flames then enwrapped the two buildings of Mr. Buck, one occupied by Barker & Stone, dry goods and grocery, below, Mr. Buck's residence above ; and the other by Mrs. Buck's millinery shop. Here the progress of the devouring fiend was arrested, but in the meantime it had sprung across the street three times, to Mr. Carter's building, and was three times extinguished, but the flames were finally victorious, and naught could save the long line of buildings which lined this, the north, side of the street. Mr. Carter was a heavy loser, and but little was saved of Mrs. Carter's millinery stock. Underwood's law office vanished at the touch of the destroyer. His law library, thanks to G. Stires and others, was saved. Next went Patrick's building on the east, containing Mueller's boot and shoe store and residence; apart of his stock was saved. J. D. Blomquist received a hasty notice to clear the track, and his large stock of clothing was much damaged. Still the fierce flame rolled eastward, consuming Weigle's harness shop and Sanford's flour and feed store. The upper stories of these buildings were occupied by I. B. Bickford's News office, M. S. Brown, barber shop. Dr. Hoadley, dental office. Here the fire was stayed in its course east. From Carter's building west, the flamas caught on the side of the brick fronted block, burning westward until It died from want of more material. The Times office first suc- cumbed to its effects. Foss' barber shop, Artz* drug store, Spaulding's hall, R. B. Throop's dry goods and grocery store, Fish & Sanders grocery, all shared the same fate.

Ere the fire had spent its fury, the rain came down on the shelterless goods, damaging what the fire failed to consume and thieves did not carry away.

The fire was evidently the work of an incendiary, as no fire had been within twenty feet of the spot where it was first discovered, for a month. The unknown faces that flitted here and there, hovering over goods which were scattered promiscuously about, and the large quantity of goods missing, add additional evidence that it was a work of malice or plunder. George Kosier's hotel, on fire several times, was saved by the cool and determined work of himself and friends, and afforded shelter for the homeless heads that night.

The following list of losses, compiled by the editor of the Byron Times, G. Wellington Hawks, can be relied upon as accurate : Thompson & Kennedy, drugs, etc., $3,200; insurance, $1,000. R. B. Throop, dry goods, $850; insurance, $3,000 ; received $807. Barker & Stone, dry goods, etc., $1,000; no insurance. W. J. Sanford, $250; insurance, $300; received $210. G. F. Hoadley, $50; no insurance. Fish & Sanders, stock and building, $2,000; household goods, $100 ; no insurance. M. S. Brown, barber, $180. R. F. Watson, $150; insured, $200; received $69. H. J. Wing, building, $800 ; no insurance. M. Buck, millinery and household goods, $3,500 ; no insurance. Wm. Weigle, building and stock, $1,500; insured for and received $600. W. F. Artz, drugs, $650; building, $906; received $435 insurance. Mrs. Wilbur, household goods, $200. J. R. Sensor, clothing, etc., $1,600. Wm. H. Mix, building, $1,050; stock, $1,600; no insurance. George Eddy, building, $500; no insurance. James Tyler, building, $400; received $200 insurance. P. Carter, building, household goods, millinery, etc., $2,309.65 ; no insurance. J. Mueller, boots, shoes, stc, $600 ; no insurance. G. F. Foss, barber, $125. J. F. Spaulding, buildings, $6,000; no insurance. J. D. Blomquist, stock and tools, $400. G. W. Hawks, household goods and printing office, $1,600; insured for $300; received $263. Band instruments, $200. W. J. Hawthorn, $100, J. P. Wayland, $50. H. G. Stout, building, tools and household goods, $1,698; no insurance. Geo. Kosier's shop and stock, $roo. B. Kelsey's building, household goods, stock, etc., $4,697.77; insurance, $1,600; George Patrick's two buildings, $3,400 ; insurance, $1,800. There was no insurance on property named unless so stated.

The footing up shows a total loss of $40,130.42; insurance, $6,160; adjusted losses, 5,702. From which it will be seen that the uncovered loss is the enormous sum of $34,428.42. Much assistance was tendered the unfortunate ones through a relief committee, composed of W. J. Bollinger, I. S. Knowlton, Geo. Walters, G. W. Hawks, Joseph Stone, J. S. Rosier, Wm. Weigle, Jno. T. Ray and E. A. Irvine. Many lost their all, and must again undergo the privations of starting their fortunes. Others were enabled to continue business - some through the aid of kind friends, and many buildings are already replacing those destroyed. Mr. Rogers built a small temporary bank building, and Barker & Stone occupy his building. Mr. Sensor, Mr. Throop and Mr. Mix reopened in little buildings on Main Street. Fish & Sanders re-opened just east of Bollinger & Close's store. The first to build, after Mr. Rogers, was Wm. Weigle, who put up a small temporary harness shop until he could build a better one, which will be of stone, 22^ by 50 feet, 20 feet high, on the old site.

Mr. James Sanford put up a flour and feed store near the corner of Second and Walnut, 16 by 30. Sherer's building on Walnut Street is 20 by 40, two stories high. P. Carter claimed a right to a representation in the process of re-building, and put up a building the same size and height as Sherer's, which is about done. Merchant & Bowles' livery barn, ;^6 by 80, 14 feet high, is a model barn, having stable room for eighteen horses, with a large sign, covering nearly the whole upper front, done by the sign painter, E. W. Thompson. J. F. Spalding wheeled into line, in putting up a building, 60 by 66, inside measure. The first story is divided into three stores ; two are 23 by 60, and the other 20 by 60 and 12 feet high. The upper story is divided to give three offices in front and a hall 40 by 66 and 17 feet high, which is reached by a broad stairway six feet wide. The roof will be of tin, and the walls will be covered with brick, thus making it nearly fire-proof. Mr. Spalding superintends the work himself. A. Morris, last Fall commenced what some called a big post-hole, on Walnut Street, 40 by 84, laying up the walls nine feet high, and things seemed to be in sfaiu quo; but Clint. Morris, his son, let the job of putting up a two-story building, 40 by 84. The whole upper floor will be a hall 40 by 84, 16 feet high. The lower story will be divided into two stores, 20 by 84^ and 12 feet high. The roof will be of iron, and the sides covered with brick. The basement cellars are under the whole building, and nine feet high. J. S. Kosier does the work. J. Mueller built himself a neat shoe shop on Second Street, 18 by 26, and H. G. Stout a little shop on Union Street. These buildings, with the two-story frame building to be built by B. Kelsey, the double two-story stone building, 45 by 60 feet, 20 feet high, on the Stout lot. Second Street, which will be commenced soon, and a frame building by G. W. Hawks, 16 by 24, 12 feet high, with iron roof, on the corner of Walnut and Second Streets, will make Byron appear like her old self, and doubtless encourage many others to follow in this live town.

Religious. - The first minister of the gospel. Rev. Mr. Abbott, passed through this vicinity in 1835, at which time a meeting was appointed at Mr. Norton's house. The next minister was Rev. Alexander Irvin, a local Methodist minister. Father McKean was the first to establish societies. He officiated in forming the one at Byron, in the Winter of 1837. It had sixteen members, and held services in a log house which Perry Norton built, just north of Isaac Norton's house, in the Summer of 1836. This was used for preaching for two or three years, by the Methodist denomination.

The Methodist Episcopal Church, a small, yet substantial, stone structure, was built in 1855, and dedicated in the Fall of 1856. Rev. Barton H. Cartwright, the pastor at that time, hauled all the stone, working zealously through rain or shine. Mr. Cartwright has been at Byron four different times, twice at a very early day and once since the erection of the church. Rev. Jewett preceded Rev. Cartwright, at which time services were held in the school-house. We were unable to obtain a complete list of the pastors, but among them were : Revs. Wiley, Hutchins, Cross, Walker, Penfield, Dunbar, Lynn, Trowbridge, W. R. Hoadley, George S. Young, Benj. Close, Barton H. Cartwright and the present pastor. Rev. J. W. P. Jordon. There are at present about fifty members.

The Congregational Church was formed in May, 1837, with eleven members, Rev. Morrell, of Rockford, officiating. Meetings were held at the house of Lucius Reed. Among its first members were David Holt, Lucius Reed and wife, L. O. Bryan, Luke Parsons, P. T. Kimball, Col. D. Brown, Mrs. Eleanor Mix. Rev. E. Brown, from North Hadley, Mass., took charge of the church in 1838, continuing nearly four years ; followed by George Gemmell, eight years ; and he by R. M. Pearsons, about eight years ; he by E. Root, one year ; succeeded by J. P. Stoddard in 1861, serving about ten years; temporary supplies for three years. August i, 1874, L. C. Beckman commenced labor, and supplied three years. October i, 1877, Rev. W. E. Holyoke commenced labor with the church. In 1846, the brick edifice now occupied by the church, 40 by 50, was erected, being the best one in the county at that time. Dedicated in August, 1847, Rev. Jonathan Blanchard, President of Knox College, officiating. Present membership, about eighty.

Rev. J. C. Beekman, formerly of the Congregational Church, holds religious services every Sunday and evening at the Reformed Club Room. Sabbathschool is also held at 12 M., every Sabbath.

The Baptist denomination have for several years had an organization at Byron, but are not now in circumstances to support a regular pastor. Until recently Rev. L. G. Carr preached in the M. E. Church in the afternoon of every other Sabbath.

Schools. - The first school-house was erected in the Winter of iZ'^d-']., by St. J. Mix, and school taught the Summer following, by Lydia A. Weldon, a sister of Mrs. Asa G. Spaulding, and afterwards the wife of Simon Spaulding. The house was located on the lot where now stands the Masonic Hall. It was afterwards torn away and a plaster house erected. This still remains as a portion of the hall referred to, and still contains a branch of the public school, being taught by Miss Agnes Kendall. About twenty-seven years ago, a stock company built the present two-story brick school building, as the Byron Academy. In the same year it was erected, the first fair in Ogle County was held near there, the academy building being used as the exhibition hall. The date and incidents were destroyed in the recent fire, as, indeed, were a great many matters of interest, rendering the gathering of historical facts more difficult. The public schools now held in this building are presided over by W. A. Reynolds; Assistants, Misses Ella Fisher and Cora F Wertz.

A. F. &> A. M. - Byron Lodge, No. 274, was organized in the Fall of 1856, with seven charter members : Charles Wertz, W. M.; Chas. F. Lewis, S. W.; A. O. Campbell, Treasurer ; George Wertz, C. Conner, E. Lockwood and Mr. Goodell. J. P. Martin was made a member at the first regular meeting, and became Secretary. The society owns its hall, a frame building 28 by 46, of two stories. The present membership is about thirty-five. Meetings are held each Thursday on or before the full moon. The present officers are : J. C. Davis, W. M.; E. W. Thompson, S. W.; W. A. Grove, J. W.; J. R. Sensor, Treasurer; G. Kosier, Secretary.

The Byron Relormed Men's Club was organized in January, 1877, by J. H. Hoofstetler, of Sterling. They have a membership of twenty-eight, who are supposed to know, at least, "how it tastes," - to use the words of an active member. Meetings are held every Saturday evening, over Hev^itt's meat market, where they have a Vvell-furnished room. The present officers are: President, Dr. W. C. Murray ; Vice Presidents, R. Hart, James Cattanach and A. W. Hetrick; Secretary, T. L. Johnson; Treasurer, W. J. Hawthorne.

The Byron Reform Club was organized about the same time, by the same gentleman. It includes all who desire to unite, and has a membership of about 350. President, G. W. Hawks; Secretary, Mrs. Hapgood.

1876, at a meeting held in Spaulding's Hall. A basket picnic was held on the last day of that month, in Ercanbrach's Grove, at which there were about sixty members present. The officers elected were: President, Perry Norton ; Treasurer, A. O. Campbell ; Secretary, Dr. W. F. Artz. The membership fee was fixed at fifty cents, the president and secretary having power to levy an assessment of fifteen cents /<?r capita for the purpose of defraying expenses. There is no stated limit in the constitution or by-laws as to the time of residence in the county required to become a member. The proceedings and list of members were burned. Another picnic was held at Spaulding's Hall, on August 30,

1877, at which time speeches from old settlers, music and a grand basket dinner were the order of the day. It is contemplated to hold the third annual meeting and picnic at about the same time in this year. The same officers still preside.

The Soldiers' Monument. - In the Spring of 1866, a movement was agitated in Byron for the purpose of erecting a monument in that village in honor, and to the memory, of the brave patriots who fell during the war of the Rebellion. Accordingly, an executive committee was appointed, after the necessary funds had been raised by subscription, with power to complete the work. This committee was composed of F. A. Smith, Silas Kidder, Wright C. Hall, Aquilla Spencer, A. T. Johnson, J. P. Smith, Dr. J. Blount, John S. Rosier and M. L. Seymour. They contracted for the monument with Heard and Lindsley, of Rochelle, for $950. The foundation, fence, etc., increased that amount to a total expenditure of nearly ^1,400. The monument was completed and dedicated Oct. 18, 1866. It is located in the centre of the crossing of Chestnut and Second Streets, and the entire village and vicinity were present at the dedication. The address was made by Adjt. Gen. Allen C. Fuller.

The monument is of Rutland, Vermont, marble, twelve feet in height, surmounted by an eagle, rising for flight, made of the same material. It is situated on a stone base, which rests on a grassy mound, four feet in height ; the whole being surrounded by a neat octagonal iron fence. On the plinth, which is 22^ feet square, and 2 feet 2 inches high, are inscribed in sunken letters, on the northeast side, the following: "In memory of the Patriotic Boys of Byron, WHO FELL IN SUBDUING THE Great REBELLION - 1861-1865." On the Southeast side appears the following : " Edwin M. Elliott, J. C. Norton, Wm. Cattanach, M. D. Swan, F. Monroe Ayers, members of Co. B., 92d I. V. I." On the northwest side are the names : "Levi Crawford, Co. G., 44th I. V. I.; Stephen Kingsley, Co. D., nth I. V. I.; Heman Coleson, Co. G., 44th I. V. I.; Zachariah Lake, Co. C, 65th I. V. I.; Perry Wilder, Co. E., 74th I. V. L" On the southwest side is the coat of arms, in carved figures of three inches depth.

The monument is a proud ornament to the village, and indicates the noble sentiments, love and devotion to those whose names are thereon inscribed.

War Bounty Claims. - On February 2, 1865, at a town meeting held in Byron, immediately after the President's last call for men, Byron's quota being seventeen men, it was ordered that the township pay a bounty of $300 to each volunteer. There were enlisted under that call, Jeremiah Jordan, Wilson Hunt, Henry A. Smith, Robert A. Sanderson, A. B. Knowlton, and Samuel E. Parsons. A. T. Johnson, Supervisor, and J. S. Kosier, Collector, raised by subscription, as it was needed immediately, the amount of $4,215 as a town fund, and $3,000 as a county fund. With that amount the following eleven men were put into the service : G. B. Scudder, J. Freesman, D. Spencer, J. Bradley, J. Boop, A. W. Grover, C. F. Piper, F. M. Canfield, L. Olson, O. Shoemaker, and R. A. Mc- Name.

Money was paid for that purpose by the followingfpersons : J. Love, R. H. and M. P. Bull, Robt. Bowie, $300 each; A. A. Johnson, J. Rood, Mr. Preston, Wm. Wright, $200 each ; J. Ives, A. Woodburn, D. W. Linn, F. A. Smith, R. E. Bradshaw, J. Doughty, Wm. Lockwood, J. P. Smith for Mr. Hunt, and J. Roberts, $100 each ; A. T. Johnson, $400, for which these parties received county bonds bearing ten per cent interest. These moneys were paid March 10, 1865. The expenses amounted to $166.29, which was paid by voluntary subscription. On the i8th of March, 1865, a special election was held at which the township voted against paying the bounty, and after that time all moneys collected were given as a voluntary subscription. August 23, at a special meeting of the township auditors, the amount of $4,215 was allowed. That amount included the $1,800 due the six soldiers who first enlisted, and was extended upon the tax books and returned to the Collector for collection.

At a special town meeting, held October 12, which was gotten up by those opposed to paying the bounty, the following resolution was adopted by a vote of 83 to I :

That proceedings in Court of Equity be commenced and prosecuted on the part of the inhabitants of the Town of Byron, in order to arrest and annul the collection of any tax levied on the property of said town for the pajrment of any military town bounties, and that a committee be appointed by the Board, consisting of three persons, to superintend the conducting said suit, and that they take such legal advice and employ such counsel as they may consider will be proper in conducting the same, provided, however, that said suit shall not be commenced unless such committee shall, after proper legal advisement, consider that such suit will be likely to prevail to accomplish the object of the same.

In December, 1865, this committee sued out an injunction to stop collection of the tax. The case was tried in Ogle County, and decision rendered against defendants ; was taken up to the Supreme Court on writ of error, and remanded for a new trial before Judge Heaton, who dissolved the injunction and the tax was paid.

The Press of Byron will be noted in a special chapter devoted to that important subject. The Byron Times, edited and published by G. Wellington Hawks, is a feature of the village, which is well appreciated by the citizens, as its large and increasing list of readers indicates.

Byron has never been incorporated. The township officers are : Supervisor^ L. B. Burch ; Toiun Clerk, M. H. Underwood ; Assessor, W. C. Hall ; Collector, Moses Coolbaugh ; Commissioners of Highways, J. F. Spaulding, Adam Hamaker and Henry Austin ; Justices of the Peace, George Kosier and F. A. Wheelock ; Constables, J. G. Bowles and Wm. C. Bunn. Postmaster, though not a township officer, is Silas St. John Mix.

Histobt Of Oole Coumty

The earliest settler in this township is said to be David Maxwell. He passed through this prairie in 1832, on his return from the battle of Stillman's Run, where he had gone with a Bloomington company, called McLain's Militia. He then was pleased with the fertile prairies of Ogle County. In 1835, with his brother-in-law, Samuel Aikens, of Franklin County, Ohio, he moved to Washington Grove. After locating their land, Mr. Aikens returned to Ohio, where he remained for two years, and then came back with his wife and others of the family, among whom were Dick, Charley and Tom, their parents, and a Ross family, connected by marriage. Of these, the three young men mentioned gained rather hard names, and will be referred to more especially in another iplace. The parents, youngest son (Samuel), and David Maxwell were respected as good citizens.

Mrs. Samuel Aikens is now living at Ashton, and her daughter, now Mrs. John Todd, is still living in Chana. The Aikens brothers kept the first blacksmith shop and built a saw mill on a small stream, at Washington Grove.

In 1835, Aaron Paine made a claim at Paine's Point, and settled there with his family. Benjamin Boyce settled near him soon after, but, after making some improvements, sold out to George Taylor from New York. Mr. Taylor lived on the same farm till the time of his death. His son. Mason, now occupies the farm.

Mr. Paine sold out to the father of Augustus Austin, who now lives there. Mr. Paine afterwards moved to Ox Bow Prairie, in Putnam County and from there to Oregon Territory, leaving his family behind. In Oregon he became a member of the state legislature. Mr. Paine learned his letters after he was forty years of age, of John Whitaker, an early settler at Black Walnut Grove.

The first post-office was kept near Paine's Point, by Mrs. Thomas Stinson, Here, also, the first church, Lutheran, was built, about 1852. This church was of stone, and was replaced in 1874 by the present frame building. Rev. Mr. Hill, of Oregon, now preaches there occasionally. The post-office, and also a store, are now kept by John Kizer. In 1856, a commodious frame church was erected there by the Wesleyan Methodist denomination. About 1843, a schoolhouse was built here, which was afterwards moved to another district, and the present frame school-house built.

Homan Morgan settled in White Oak Grove, south of Chana, in 1836. He had been a Baptist minister in Ohio. His oldest son, Lyman, built a grist mill on the Kyte River, and afterwards moved to Wisconsin, where he became known as the inventor of the Morgan water-wheel. His parents moved to Wisconsin and lived with him. Another son, Homan, still resides on section 25.

Soon after the Morgans, Captain Isaac Trask and family settled one mile west of White Oak Grove, on the Kyte River. Captain Trask left a sea-faring life to find a home in the wilds of Illinois, and for many years was seldom seen without a gun or fishing tackle for a companion. He has become one of Pine Rock's solid citizens. Israel, one of his sons, is now supervisor from that township. Nearly ten years since, Mr. Schoonhoven established a cheese factory on the east line of section 13, which is still in operation.

Among others, the following settled in Lafayette and Pine Rock before 1841 : John Weeks and wife, Charles Rice, James Clark, Wm. Bridges, John Gilbraith, John H. Stephenson, Mercer P. Carr, Harrison Ogden, Milton Burright, Lewis Williams, H. Hills and Riley Paddock. Mathew Bailey settled near Dr. Roe and has two sons, James and John, now residing in the township.

A Ndrews George P.

i;A]!IPBEIiIi A. O. Byron; born in Bradford Co., Pa., July 23, 1809 ; came to III. July, 1836, locating in what was then known as Bloomingville Precinct, now Byron Tp. ; married Aug., 1835, to Celinda M.Foster; wife deceased March 11, 1838; married second wife,Elmira Brewster, who was the mother of two sons; the elder, Wm. F., enlisted in the 92d I. V. I.; he was killed at Powder Springs, Ga.; the younger, D. H. Campbell, is now at home in business; Mrs. C. died Dec. 28, 1865; Mr. Campbell again married Mrs. Lucy C. York, his present wife; Mr. Campbell has held the offices of Justice of the Peace and Supervisor for several years.

DATIS JOHIi' C. Farmer; Sec. 24; P. O. Byron ; born in England July 31,1824; came to 111. in Nov., 1841, settling in Winnebago Co., where he lived twelve years ; he then removed to Ogle Co. in 1853 ; married May 10, 1855, to Julia A. Hall; have six children; Mr. Davis owns a farm of 200 acres, valued at $8,000.

FISHER CHAKL.es, Farmer; Sec. 25 ; P. O. Byron ; born in Westborough, Worcester Co., Mass., July 21. 1818 ; came to 111. in June, 1838, settling in Byron ; married Nov. 10, 1850, Harriet N. Saulsbury, who was born in Townsend, Windham Co., Vt, Aug. 2, 1827; have seven children, four daughters and three sons ; owns farm of 164 acres, valued at $12,000.

FOSS G-. F. Barber; Byron; born in Strafford, Strafford Co., N. H., Sept. 30, 1837; removed to Crestline, Ohio, in 1855; remained there two years; then went to Columbus, Ohio, remaining there till the war broke out, in 1861, when he enlisted in Co. A, 2d Battalion, 18th U. S. Infantry; served three years, and was discharged on Lookout Mountain, Tenn., Oct. 24'^^ 1864 ; came to Boone Co., 111., the same year, where he married Emily S. Brayton.

HAIifi IVBIGHT C. Farmer; Sec. 7 ; P. O. Byron ; born in Hatley, Province of Quebec, Dec. 14, 1829 ; came to Rockford, Winnebago Co., 111., in 1852, residing there two years ; then removed to Sterling, Whiteside Co. ; came to Byron, Ogle Co., in March, 1857; married June 29, 1854, to Ellen Hodges, who was born Oct. 29, 1832, in Vienna, Oneida Co., N. Y.; has six children, one son and five daughters; owns farm 230 acres, valued at $10,500.

Editor and Publisher of the Byron Times ; was born in Oswego Co., N. Y., in 1831; came to 111. in 1841, settling in Wheeling, Cook Co. ; entered the Rock River Conference of the M. E. Church in 1864; located in Byron in 1877.

Sec. 22; P. O. Byron; widow of the late Augustus T. Johnston, who was born in Richland Co., O., Nov. 19, 1819; he came to Byron, Ogle Co., in 1837, and settled on Sec. 23, being one of the earliest settlers of the Co. ; married Nov. 10, 1850, Lucilda H. Copeland, who was born in Chester, Chester Co., Pa., Dec. 1, 1825; the father of Mrs. J. came to 111., settling in Byron Tp., Sept. 24, 1871 ; she has two sons and four daughters; owns farm of 220 acres, valued at $11,000.

KKOliVIiTON I. S. Nurseryman and Fruit Grower; Sec. 30; P. O. Byron; born in New Fane, Windham Co., Vt., Jan. 29, 1815 ; came to 111. in May, 1838, settling in Byron Tp., where he now resides; married in Ashburnham, Mass., Aug. 16, 1842, Miss Hephsibeth C. Fisk ; have three children, two sons and one daughter ; Mrs. K. died June 10, 1863 ; married second wife, Mary F. Cochrain, daughter of David Hagadon, of Mayfield, Fulton Co., N. Y. ; she was born Jan. 7, 1833.

MIX S. ST. JOHIT, Postmaster; Byron ; born at Catskill, Greene Co., N. Y., Oct. 3, 1799, and came to III. in 1835, settling in Byron one year later. When he first came to the Rock River country there were only two or three log houses at Dixon, and about the same number in Rockford, and only three on the road between the two places, a distance of forty miles. Asa G. Spaulding was the first postmaster at Byron, and Mr. Mix succeeded him, being appointed under the administration of James K. Polk, ofliciating many years. Was again appointed under Abraham Lincoln, some fourteen or fifteen years smce, and still occupies the ofllce. In early times, the people took trains going to Dixon (25 miles) to get their mail, and it was no uncommon sight in those days to see roving bands of Indians, numbering from 20 to 80, passing up and down Rock River, either on ponies or in canoes. After the organization of the Co., in 1830, he was one of the three commissioners elected, and court was held alternately at Dixon in a school-house, at Oregon in a little store, and at Buffalo

Grove in a log house. After the expiration of his term as commissioner, was elected school commissioner. Mr. Mix was married in 1827, to Eleanor Mix, and had twelve children, seven of whom have since died, as also has Mrs. Mix. Of the children, Adelaide was born Jan. 20, 1836, and is now the wife of Wm. I. Whitaker, residing one and a half miles north of Byron; Samuel H., Nov. 29, 1839, lives at Black River Falls, Wis. ; Hiram, July 16, 1843, and Wm. H., April 21, 1846, both reside in Byron; Ernest, the youngest, born July 25, 1848, lives in Chicago. Mr. Mix, although nearly 79 years of age, still retains his faculties in a most remarkable degree, and, although living on " borrowed time," bids fair to outlive many who have looked upon him as a relic of by-gone

MIX liVM. H. General Merchandising and Postal Clerk on Chicago & Cedar Rapids R. W. P. O. ; born in Byron April 21,1846; married Dec. 19, 1867, to Lois Addie Osborn, of Byron; one daughter.

Alley Jeremiah

NEGUS AI.FRED J. Proprietor of Rosehill Creamery; Sec. 30; P. O. Byron; born in England May 2, 1851 ; came to 111. in Feb., 1874; married Aug. 7, 1876, to Katie I. Houghton ; have one son.

READ TRYPHEJTA H. Widow of tlie late Lucius Read; P. O. Byron; Mr. Read was born Aug. 14, 1810, in Newfane, Windham Co., Vt. ; married, Nov. 23, 1831, to Emily N. Kimball, who died Dec. 15, 1847; had three children, the eldest dying in infancy; they came to Byron,

Ogle Co., 1837; married for second wife Tryphena H. Parsons, April 4, 1848 ; had four children by this marriage ; only one daughter now living, who is married to Dr. Wm. F. Artz ; Mr. Parsons was one of the early settlers of this Co., coming to Byron in 1837.

Ogle Oofnty Direotort

8MITH HEXRY A. Farmer; Sec. 25; P. 0. Byron; born in Byron Tp. March 31, 1844; married Feb. 28, 1873, to to Miss Annie Carter; Mr. Smith enlisted in the 132d Regt. I. V. I. for 100 days, serving until the Regt. was mustered out; then enlisted in the 92d Regt. I. V. I. Feb., 1865 ; remaining until the close of the war ; Mr. Smith has a farm of 160 acres valued at $6,400.

ISmiTH J. P. Farmer; Sec. 36; P. O. Byron; born in Franklin Co., Mass., Fob. 26, 1817; came to 111. in 1839, settling in Byron Tp. on the farm on which he resides; married in Centre C<>., Pa., April 7, 1839, to Mary D. Gotshall ; they have four children, two of whom are married.

I$TIRE$$ GARRET, Stock. Dealer ; Byron ; born in Hunterdon Co., N. J., Oct. 13, 1849 ; came to Byron in 1856 ; Mr. Stires was a member of the Forest City Base Ball Club; played in every match game for three years ; the last year of the organization traveling over 15,000 miles.

WALTERS OEORGE, Dealer in and Agent for General Nursery Stock, Byron ; born in Erie Co., N. Y., Sept. 14, 1832 ; moved to Monroe Co., N. Y., in 1834, residing there until 1858, when he came to Byron, where he has resided ever since.

Justice of the Peace, Notary Public, Real Estate and General Insurance Agent, Byron; born in Newfane, Windham Co., Vt, Aug. 10, 1832; came to Byron July 22, 1844; married Nov. 1, 1856, Miss Nora Sophia Spoor; she was born near Buffalo, N. Y., March 18, 1835 ; have three daughters: Florence A., Carrie Belle and Nora Josephine. Erastus Wheelock was born in Wardsboro, Windham Co., Vt, Dec. 19, 1819 ; went to N. Y. City in Nov., 1835, engaging in mercantile business until the war broke out; enlisted as a private soldier and rose to the rank of Captain ; came to Byron in June, 1873 ; Erastus and Frederick A. are sons of the late Judge Henry Wheelock, long an old and respected citizen of Ogle Co.

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; 2,894 words in this source stream.

Byron Township

seph Sanford and Perry Norton, in 1a50m Algae the first of July, of that year Jared Sanford came up Rock River from Dixon, on his way to Rockford, then called Midway. When he arrived in the viv _ cinity of the present village of Byron, he was so charmed with its beauty that he made claim to the land by planting a claim stake. ProceeJing on his way to Midway, he found his brother, Joseph Sanford and Perry Norton, and describing to them the beautiful country which he had found, they were induced to go down and examine it. While there they all made claim to nearly two sections of land, and returned to Midway the same day. As soon as possible they came back, made improvements and again returned to Midway where they spent the winter, and came back in the spring.

In 1836, ia addition to the Sanfords and Mr. Norton, other settlers came in, among whom were Asa Spalding, Silas St. John Mix, Andrew Shepard, A. O. Campbell, Rev. Chester Campbell, Allen Woodburn, Hiram R. Maynard, David Juvenal, J. L. Spalding, Simon S. Spalding, Erastus Norton, Dr. A. E. Hurd, P. T. Kimball, Lucius Reed, Lewis Carr, Samuel Patrick, Hiram nape

Silas St. John Mix located in the village. He was one of the first County Commissioners, has been quite prominent in town affairs, and yet lives in the village and is honored in old age. '

A. O. Campbell yet resides in the village of Byron. His brother, Chester Campbell, is now in Rockville, - Bates Co., Mo. Allen Woodburn located north of Byron and is still living on his homestead. os

J. L. Spalding located in the village. He is now dead. Simon S. Spalding located about a mile and | a half helow the village. Heis also dead. Brastus Norton is yet living in Oregon.

P. T. Kimball was from Vermont. He locate -about two miles north of the village, where he re mained for a time and then inoved to Rockford. ia

Album

Among other early settlers were Joshua Wood, Dudley Wood, Samuel Wood, Israel B. Knowlton, Mr. Bradbury, Mr. McIntyre, Deacon Brewster, Alexander Irvine, sketches of most of whom may be found in the biographical department of the ALBUM.

The settlement in and around Byron was quite rapidly made, keeping pace with other parts of the country. Like those of other sections the people suffered many hardships in the early days. Dixon and Buffalo Grove were the nearest post offices, and there was virtually no market for produce. In hauling to Chicago, it usually required about all that was received to pay expenses, or at best they could bring back but a barrel of salt ora few groceries. Still all were happy and looked forward to a better time coming. All realized that the beautiful and tich Rock River country must eventually be settled up by a thrifty and an enterprising people, and as for a market, it was only a question of time.

In 1837 a saw-mill was built by Sanford Brothers & Brown, about a mile and a half north of the village. This was a great convenience to the people who heretofore had been depending upon mills at a distance, or more frequently erecting their houses without sawedlumber. This old mill has long since been torn away.

The first grist-mill was built by Wilkinson & Spoor about two miles north of the village. It-was commenced in 1837, but not completed until the following year. The mill had two run of burrs when first erected, but was subsequently rebuilt with three run of burrs.

Among the first births were Aaron, a son of Mr Bradbury; Joseph M.,ason of Jared W. Sanford;. and Salinda, a daughter of A. O. Campbell. The latter died at the age of seven.

The first death of an adult person was the wife of A. O. Campbell, who died March 11, 1338. The funeral service was conducted by Rev. Alexander Irvine. ;

The first school was in the village of Byron, of which more will be said in another place. There are ten school districts in the township at present.

The township of Byron was organized in 1850, being one of the first in the county. The following named have served as members of the Board of Supervisors from the township, for the years given:

Byron Township did its duty in the War of the - Rebellion. Its people were almost entirely loyal to the Government, and in favor of vigorous prosecution of the war, and after the war was over a splendid monument costing $1,400 was erected "In Memory of the Patriotic Boys of Byron, who fell in subduing the Great Rebellion - 1861-1865."

In 1875, the township voted $15,000 for building a bridge across the river at the village. At a special meeting of the Board of Supervisors an appropriation of $12,500 was made for the same purpose, but at the next regular meeting of the Board the motion to appropriate was reconsidered and voted down. In the meantime the Township Commissioners had made a contract for the erection of the bridge for the sum of $27,500. Work was commenced upon the structure, but it was abandoned when the appropriation was withheld. For some years nothing was done toward its building. secured from the Legislature making it obligatory upon the county, when any township should vote a certain tax for bridge building, to appropriate a like amount. When this was done Byron appropriated the sum of $15,000, and called upon the county for a like amount. Marion Township was asked for $5,000, but the tax was voted down. Private subscriptions to the amount of $3,000, however, were secured from the citizens of the township. The bridge was completed, and a celebration held in honor of the event Sept. 15, 1883. It was opened, however, Sept. 4, and four out of the six first settlers of the township were the first to pass over. Theens tire cost of the bridge was $29,745.30, already in the State, a Bloomington and Bloomingdale, the Postmaster-General suggested that another name should be given, as the similarity of

It has been stated that the land upon which the village was located was claimed by Jared W. Sanford and Perry Norton. In the division of the claim . it became that of Mr. Sanford, who sold it to Joseph Sanford and M. M. York, who subsequently admitted as partners Asa G. and James L. Spalding and Silas St. John Mix, and at the time of the land sale Ebenezer Brown, as agent, bid in the land, and deeded it, equally divided, between the members of the company.

first houses upon the village plat in 1836, the former opening a stock of general merchandise, becoming the first regular merchant. The second house was soon afterward erected by P. T. Kimball for Lucius Reed, who kept the first tavern in the place. The latter subsequently engaged in the mercantile trade, and was for many years one of the leading business men in the place. For some years Mr. Wheelock was his partner. _ The next buildings are said to have been a dwelling house and blacksmith shop erected by Mr. Bradbury. These were about all the houses built upon the village plat in 1836.

by Wilbur & Norton, who did a large business. mercantile trade was now established, and toge! with various other lines of trade, the village seemed to be looking up.

The first regular hotel was built by Samuel an d Dudley Wood. It was a two story brick building, and for many years was used for hotel purposes by the Woods and others. ee

The first wagon was made by John G. Christopher on his farm,in 1835. Mr. Christopher soon after ward moved into the village, where he continued the business for some years. Mix & Messenger also built and run a wagon shop for a time, and then disposed of it to Wm. Lockwood. ,

The first plows were manufactured by Samuel and Dudley Wood. Solomon Dwight commenced in the same line about 1854. It is claimed for him by some that he built the first walking cultivator ever made. The manufacture of plows seems to have been quite ai industry in Byron for some years. Wood & Byington, in connection with a foundry also engaged in that business, while Wm. Lockwood did likewise.

The post office was established here in 1837, Asa G. Spalding being the first Postmaster. Those who | have since held the office have been Albert Wilbur, S. St. John Mix, Geo. Swan, Thomas J. Stires, Col. J. H. White, Wm. C. Dunning, S. St. John Mix, the second time, R. D. Hollenbeak, and D. H. Campbell, the incumbent. Mr. Mix held the office for a great many years. cs

The village made but litttle real progress until the completion of the railroad, in 1875, though at times trade was quite large. At noon, March 1g, 1875, the road was completed to the river. An extra - amount of $5,000 was required to build a bridge and ; secure the running of cars into Byron. This amount

Bridge Company, and the bridge was built and the - cars ran into Byron in the fall of 1875. For five ; years this place was the terminus of the road, and | Byron enjoyed a veritable boom. Dwellings and business houses were erected at a lively rate, and al seemed fair for a continuance of great progress, taught the first term ofgchool therein. The house was located on the lot where now stands the Masonic Hall. Until the adoption of the present school law, and for many years after, select schools were

_held. Among those well remembered as teachers of private schools are Mrs. Dr. Bradley, Miss Clark, Prof. Turner and wife. About 1853 a stock company was organized for the purpose of operating an academy in the village. A two story brick building was erected and the school opened. Wm. B. Christopher was the first teacher employed. He was succeeded by Miss Marcia Knowlton and Miss F. J. Wheelock. The school was never successful financially, but the work done in the school room is held in grateful remembrance by many who there received instruction. The building was finally sold to the district, and is used for public school purposes.

Religious

the least. The Congregationalists, Methodists, Baptists, Seventh Day Adventists and Beekmanites, as they are called, are represented here. The Congregational Church was organized in ay, 1837, with rr members. Rev. Mr. Morrell, of Rockford, officiating. Meetings were at first held at the house of Lucius Reed. Rev. E. Brown, from North Hadley, Mass., took charge of the church in 1838, and continued four years. In 1846 their church edifice was erected. The Church has generally been prosperous.

The Methodist Episcopal Church was organized by Rev. Barton H. Cartwright, some miles out in the country, and in 1844 moved to the village. Perry Norton was leader. In 1855 the house of worship was erected, under the direction and during the ministration of Rev. Mr. Cartwright. In 1873 they built the two story frame parsonage near the church.

In 1874 Rev. L. C. Beekman was called to the pastorate of the Congregational Church. He served three years, and then for a time held independent services. His wife, Dora, was a God fearing woman, very zealous in every good word and work, but with views upon certain theological questions not entirely in accord with the generally received opinions. A views, and on account of her blameless life, soon regarded her as an extraordinary person, possessing a wisdom far above that possessed by any other human being. In time she became to be regarded as the Lamb's bride, spoken of in Revelation, In her were all the attributes of the Father and Son. Before her death, which occurred in 1883, she had established seven churches, the number spoken of in Revelations. This they regarded as an evidence of her divine character, The true believers, according to their view, have heaven in their hearts, the New Jerusalem coming down from God out of Heaven (Rev. 21:2) being typical of rest. They claim that the orthodox world (so called) worship the man Jesus, and not the spirit or attributes that he possessed, which spirit is that of the Father, and has been manifested in Christ, and later in Dora Beekman. The number of believers is small, but they claim that one is "equal to 1,000, and two can put 10,000 to flight."

Byron Lodge, No. 274, A. F. & A. M., was organized in 1856, with Charles Wertz, W. M.; Chas. F. Lewis, S. W; A. O. Campbell, Treas., and four other charter members. The lodge has been exceedingly prosperous, owns its hall and has a membership of 50, with W. A. Grove, W. M.; C. Apgar, S. W.. J. H. Hunt, J. W.; J. C. Woodburn. Sec., and John S. Kosier, Treas.

Byron Division No. 105,S. of T., was organized in 1882, It has done a good work in molding public opinion, and keeping the village on the right side of temperance.

Cooling Post, No. 316, G. A. R., was organized in the fall of 1883, with 20 charter members. The Post was named in honor of H. C. Cooling, a Lieutenant in Company B, g2d Illinois Infantry, who enlisted from this village, and died since the close of the war. The present membership of the Post is 32, with John F. Spalding Com.; J. H. Hunt, S. V. C.; Joseph Nuttle, J. V. C., and Edgar A. Swan, Adjt.

Templars had an organization in Byron, but it was swallowed up inthe red ribbon movement, which was inaugurated here in the winter of 1876-7. Out of this movement came the Byron Reform Club and the Byron Reformed Men's Club, the former having on its rolls at one time some 350 names. The latter was composed of men who had "looked upon the wine when it was red."

Junius Rogers established an Exchange Bank at this place shortly after the completion of the railroad. He was succeeded by A. B. Knowlton, who subsequently failed. W. D. Brown, of Geneva, then opened a bank here, with R. D. Hollenbeak as Cashier. In July, 1885,he sold out to D, H. Camp- | bell, who now continues the business. Mr. Campbell is also Postmaster.

The Great Fire

On Tuesday night, Nov. 13, 1877, a fire broke out in the rear of Thompson & Kennedy's drug store, which swept out of existence nearly all the business portion of the village. It was'evidently the work of an incendiary, as no fire had been within twenty feet of the spot where it was first discovered, for a month. The total loss was about $50,000.

Present Business Interests

After the fire the work of re-building was commenced. Some had lost their all and could not rebuild, but those that could went immediately to work. At the present time there is no sign of the destruction, ard the business men of the place move on in the "even tenor of their way," looking hopefully forward to the future. Among those engaged in business are E. A. Nott and Mershon & Hunt, engaged in the general merchandise trade. Both firms carry large stocks, and each do a good business. J. R. Sensor is in the clothing trade, and carries a fine stock of gents' furnishing goods. Kennedy & Evans and Mrs. L. R. Artz are druggists, who, in addition to drugs and medicines, carry a full line of druggists' sundries. The hardware trade is managed by W. H. Strong and W. T. Dodds, while the grocery trade is represented by J. W. Sanford and Henry Jackson. The furniture trade is carried on by J. Woolhiser, while George Martin feeds the hungry at his restaurant. Michael and Miss F. F. Ryan supply the ladies _ with their millinery, while A J. Chrisman is the shoe maker. W. D. Brown, Newton Housewert, A. | Hewitt and Thomas Bickford & Son are " village blacksmiths." Richard Hart is engaged in the man- | Meo and repair of wagons, and J. F. Spalding | and J. G. Jackson furnish the liverysy INooe Hewitt. eand Henry Schneider have meat markets. George Ackerson and George F. Foss are barbers. George Fox and Homer D. Hoyt are each engaged in the ~ harness trade, while Charles H. Patrick is a dealer in wall paper, paints and oils. S. D. Wallace, of Oregon, has a lumber yard, under the management of George Miller. M. A. Jones is a dealer in grain, stock and coal, while Garret Stires confines himself to the stock trade, together with agricultural implements. D. H. Campbell is the banker. L. C. Spoor has a tin shop, and John H. Barry is a dealer in pumps and wind mills. Kosier & Grove and Helm & Gill are carpenters and contractors. Axel Swanson is a tailor. J.C. Woodburn and F. A. Wheelock attend to the legal business of the citizens, and Doctors J. W. Mix, A.S. Woodcock and J. Blount are their medical advisers. The Commercial House, by S. D. Trumbull, and the Albion House, by D. A. Gaveline, are the hotels. Last, but not least, is the Aapress Printing Office, owned by Shiley & Humbert, Ee are royal good fellows.