Coral Township (part 1 of 3)

Coral Township

This township lies in the southern tier of townships in the county, joined on the south by Kane County,on the west by Riley Township, on the north by Seneca, and on the east by Grafton. It is township 43, range 6. It ranks well in quality of soil with other townships in the county. None, perhaps, are better adapted to the dairy business than this. The township is composed of fine farms, and dotted over with good substantial buildings. The township is traversed by the railroad, from one side to the other, entering on section 13, near the southeast corner, and passes through the northwest portion of section 5. Coral is watered by the Kishwaukee Creek principally.

This is one of the first settled towns in the county. The first settler was William ^Hamilton, who came from Ohio in November, 1835, and located near where the village of Coral now stands. "While assisting Calvin Spencer, of Marengo, to raise a log building, Mr. Hamilton received an injury from a falling timber, which caused his death the following spring. Benjamin Van Vleet and his father were the next to come into this township. They built their house near the old Indian camp-ground. Here they remained till the fall of 1836, when they sold to Wm. Jackson and moved to Pecatonica where they both died many years ago. O. P. Rogers came in 1836, arriving here on the 16th day of March. His was the first that was honored with the presence of a white woman. Mr. Kogers came from Middletown, Vt. At the time of his settlement there was not a single house between his residence and Dundee, and a house three miles west of Elgin marked the only spot of habitation between him and that city. Mr. Rogers resided in the township many years, when he moved to Marengo, where he still resides. Claims were made in 1835 for Frank Diggins and Enos A. Pease, who came in the spring of 1836. Mr. Diggins soon afterward moved to the township of Dunham, where he still resides. Mr. Pease remained in the township, and raised a large family. His son Marion was killed at the battle of Vicksburg. Some of the family are still residents of the county. L. Thompson came from Ohio in 1836 and resided in the township only a few years, when he moved to Abingdon, 111.

Clark P. Thompson, brother of L. Thompson, who came at the same time, resided in the township till the war broke out, when he enlisted and was killed in 1861. Joseph Bullard came to this township from Pennsylvania, in 1826; remained but a short time, when he sold out to Robert Eddy.

Proctor Smith came from !New York State, in 1836, and settled where Mr. Tuttle now resides, and opened a tavern in a log cabin. He died in 1877.

A. Thompson settled in Coral in 1837; he was the first that year. Same year came John Jab from England ; Robert Eddy, who died in 1844; A. F. Randall; Darius Carr, now a resident of Iowa Miss Mary Lackey, who afterward moved to Belvidere, where she died in 1870; Sebas Frisbie, John Denison, and Ira Nicholas, who afterward moved to Iowa, where he died some years afterward.

Fibst Events

The first marriage in this township took place Aug. 25, 1839. The parties joined in wedlock were Samuel H. Bullard and Samantha Dunham; ceremony performed by Beman Crandall, Justice of the Peace. The first birth was that of Mary Eddy, daughter of Robert Eddy, in 1837. The first person who died in the township was John Hamilton in 1836. The first cemetery was laid out in 1838, on section 8. Not long after this was established, burying grounds were laid out at Harmony. After Union became a village a cemetery was also laid out there. In 1837, in a private house, the first school was taught by Caroline Cobb, since the wife of

Philander Spencer. The first school-house was erected in 1838 on section 8. First religious services held in house of Joel Kogers, by Rev. O. Walker. The first school taught in the school-house, was bv "William Jackson, who received 4,000 rails for four months teaching. His employers split a thousand rails each month that he taught, so when the term was ended his pay was ready. The fate of the log school-house seems to have rested in the hands of the scholars who attended the school taught in it by S. K. Bartholomew. At the end of the term the scholars got into a frolic, and tore down the school-house.

School Statistics

The following statistics will show the progress this township has made in the interests of education: It has eleven school-houses, which is more than in any other township in the county. An annual salary of $1,907.69 is paid to teachers. The number of children in the township of a school age is 409. The school property is valued at $10,350.

Postofb'Ice

The first postoffice was established in 1837 at the house of William Jackson, on section 7. Mr. Jackson was the first Postmaster and Mrs. Jackson opened the first mail that ever came to this office. This was the first postoffice established between Chicago and Galena, 111. Mr. Jackson kept the office only two or three years when the hotel-keeper, Smith, became the Postmaster. Afterward Harriet Dunham kept the office. W. J. Fillmore was next appointed Postmaster. During his term of office the postoffice was removed to Coral, where it still remains. Wm. S. Ross was the first Postmaster in Coral Village. Mr. Cleaver was the next; then Yal. Alstine. Mr. Morris was the next. Present Postmaster is Henry Stoddard.

About the year 1855 a postoffice was established at the village of Harmony. The first Postmaster was Mr. Shaflee. It has since passed through many hands, and is now kept by Mr. Abraham.

In those days each postoffice was not provided with its own mail sack, as is now the case, but the mail matter of many offices was placed in one large sack. The amount of mail to be assorted over made it a tedious task for the postmaster. First, the mail was carried on this route on horseback, but soon afterward on a coach.

Cheese Factories

The first cheese factory in this township was bnilt by Mr. Bartholomew, about the year 1870. This factory did a good business till about six years ago, when it was burned down. Another was soon after erected in its place, and is now the property of W. A. Boice. In 1878 the manufactory was built, which was burned down about three years afterward. It was rebuilt at once, and is now doing a good business in the hands of "Wood & Co., of Huntley.

First Election

held in the township, after its organization, was at the house of L. A. Sharp, April 2, 1850. The officers elected were as follows: Charles Crego, Supervisor; Clinton D. Cannon, Clerk; Carlisle Hastings, Assessor; E. W". Fillmore, Collector; E. D. Marsh, Overseer of Poor; I. M. White, Hush Bartholomew, Morgan Butler, Commissioners of Highways; E. W. Fillmore and C. L. Ross, Constables ; M. N. Raymond and Paris Brown, J. P.

The present officers are: Lester Barrows, Supervisor; H. A. Sheldon, Clerk; C. Hastings, Assessor; A. S. Peak, Collector; C. A. Wilcox, A. N. Derry, Cris Wresche, Commissioners of Highways; John Bliss and Robert Smallridge, Constables; James Lucas and Captain John Eddy, Justices of the Peace.

Indian Village

A short distance west of where Coral Village now stands there once stood a scattering village of Indian wigwams, built of bark. Among these wigwams of various architectural descriptions stood one of peculiar formation, being conical in form. This, it is said, was used as a council-house, and bore that name. This round building was about fourteen feet in diameter. Inside were placed seats, which were about thirty inches wide, and formed of split sticks. It is believed that these were used during the daytime at council meeting as places to sit on, and at night as bedsteads, upon which they spread skins of animals. The walls presented a picture gallery of a one-idea artist. Here was presented the picture of an Indian, in full rig, on a march, followed by a squaw on a pony and a dog in the rear. This trio was produced over and over again till the wall was literally covered with its reproduction. Though these lands had been purchased of the Indians, the time for giving possession had not arrived when the aggressive white man put in his appearance. Those who settled in Coral in the fall of 1835 were visited the following spring by the inhabitants of this Indian village. They had spent the winter elsewhere, and returned to take up their abode and stay the balance of the time allotted to them. Upon their return they found that much of the material comprising their wigwams had been taken by the white men and made a part of their shanties. They called upon Mr. Hamilton and secured their copper cooking pots, which he had found, and was preserving as curiosities. They then opened up a pit of corn, which they had buried the year before, and commenced housekeeping in their way. These Indians knew only enough of our language to swear.

Union Village

The village of Union was named by William Jackson, who had already given the name of Union to the Postoffice. Mr. Jackson owned the land where the village now stands and laid out the place in 1851 on the event of the railroad coming through Coral Township. The first house was built by F. M. Mead, in 1851. It still stands and is occupied by the station agent. The first store was opened in 1852, by a young man by the name of Hathaway, who was in the employ of Mr. Kimble, of Elgin. It is the same store now occupied by Mr. Allen. Shortly after a grocery store was opened which was run but a short time. The village has contained two stores most of the time since started. The first drug store was started by Hungerford & Smith abou t the year 1857. Cutler & Vanpelt, started a good drug store about the year 1868; this store is now owned by J. A. Crandall.

The postoffice was established in Union in the fall of 1852. The first Postmaster, Mr. Cannon, held the office but one year, when F. M. Mead became his successor, who kept the office some three or four years. Then Mr. Sheldon was the Postmaster a year or two. He was succeeded by S. A. Randall, who held it till 1860, when he was succeeded by Wm. H. Alden, who was Postmaster about five years. Next appointed was Wm. M. Baldwin, who held it till the assassination of President Lincoln, when he was succeeded by J. D. Bliss, who held it three years. The present incumbent, N. C. Gardner, was appointed April 13, 1869. About the year 1876 a cheese factory was built in Union, by Mr. W. A. Boice. It was afterward burned down and has since been rebuilt.

spring of 1852. He had previously been running a shop in Coral. Woodruff Cannon, the first wagon-maker, came about 1852 and remained till 1870. The first shoemaker, Mr. Clark, came from Marengo and remained in Union but a short time. About the year 1877 Messrs Derry & Pettengill built the steam-power feed-mill, which is now doing a good business. The business houses in Union at present are; Blacksmiths, D. H. Hewett, Miles Grennon; carpenters, A.. Durkee, Wm. Pi core; creamery, W. A. Boice; druggist, F. A. Kandall; merchants, F. T. Allen, Leach & Mills; feed mill, Derry & Pettengill.

of the charter members: Sam. A. Bandall, Wm. M. Jackson, S. Warden, W. Thompkins, P. M. Frisbie, H. W. Belden, N. C. Gardner, Harley Wayne, Cyrus Ladd, John Eddy, Phil. B. Smith, George Gorlis, and E. W. Fillmore. The first officers are as follows: S. A. Kandall, W. M.; Wm. Jackson, S. W. ; Wm. Thompkins, J. W.;L. Fillmore, Treasurer; P. B. Smith, Secretary; H. W. Belden, S. D.; N. C. Gardner, J. D.; Cyrus Ladd, Tyler. Present officers: J. D. Bliss, W. M.; Homer Darling, S. W.; F. L. Sheldon, J. W.; J. H. Lucas, Treasurer; W. J. Fillmore, Secretary; Ed. Stevens, S. D.; Wm. H. Darling, J. D. ; H. J. Bright, Tyler. Their present membership is twenty-nine, but have had as high as fifty in good standing. In 1867 they, in company with the Universalists, erected quite a large stone building, which is used by story. Their hall is moderately well furnished, and their meetings are held regularly. On the wall of the_lodge-room hangs a beautiful pen drawing, bearing the names of members who went to the army.

Universalist Church was organized June, 1864, in connection with the church at Marengo. The entire membership originally numbered forty, but has diminished to almost nothing at present. First church officers elected were: A. D. Keeler, Treasurer; A. J. King, Timothy Bigelow and Daniel Graves, Trustees; J. G. Botsford, Collector; S. Gf. Jones, Clerk. This society seldom have services,, though in former days they employed regular pastors. In 1867 they, in company with the Masonic lodge, erected a stone building, the lower story of which they used as a place of worship. Kev. Homer Slade was the first stated pastor of this church; he came in 1871 and remained quite a length of time when Kev. Root was called to take his place. Under the preaching of this man the church revived spiritually and grew in numbers.

Congregational Church. - This society was organized Nov. 10, 1855, with the following members: Luther Fillmore and wife, Mrs. Susan Seward, Mrs. Minerva Tracy, Mrs. Catharine Carman, and Mrs. Ann Fuller. Previous to their organization they employed Rev. Amsdon to preach to them. After their organization they were supplied for a time by Rev. Roy, an agent of the Home Missionary Society. The church was organized under Charles Harrison. The following ministers have at different times preached to these people: Rev. Baldwin, Chas. Hancock, Rev. Bryan, Daniel Chapman, Rev. Stone, a Baptist minister of Marengo; N. D. Fanning of the Independent order; Daniel Bailey and Rev. Chapman. The present pastor, Rev. Fisher, is employed by the people of this community, not being in the service of any single denomination. The Congregationalists erected a fine frame church in Union at an expense of $2,500. It was dedicated Feb. 28, 1865.

Free Methodists. - This church was organized in 1874, by Rev. L. Voorheese with a membership of twenty. The society consist* at present of only nine members. They hold their services in the Congregational church, and have had services regularly most of the time since they organized. After "Voorheese left Rev. Coclet came and remained two years. Rev. Crawford succeeded him and remained one year; he was succeeded by Rev. Spalding, who remained two- years. Next came Rev. Sprague, who remained one year, followed by Rev. Miller. Miller remained one year and was succeeded by Kev. Best, who preached two years. The first Trustees were Ed. Perkins, F. Allen, M. Grennon; the last mentioned person was chosen the first Class-Leader.

Coral Village

This is the oldest village in the township. In a very early day a store was opened here by Fillmore & Anderson, who remained in trade several years when their store burned down and was never rebuilt. The postofSce'was also established here and it became a central point soon after the settlement of the township. Here a nursery was started in an early day, but afterward moved to Marengo. The place now has the following business interests: Blacksmith, J. H. Ocock; creamery, owned by ¥m. Boice; wagon-shop, carried on by T. Ross, and a miscellaneous store owned by W. L. Morse.

Harmony

This little village was started in early times, but has never made any progress. Here the first church in the township was built. This building together with the school-house, a store and cheese factory comprise the public institutions of the place.

Biographical

Edward M. Axtell, section 32, Coral Township, was born in Allegany County, N. T., Dec. 31, 1824, a son of Harvey and Polly (Martin) Axtell. In 1856 he came to Illinois and lived in De Kalb County nine years, and in 1865 moved to McHenry County, and settled on the farm where he since resided. He owns 200 acres of choice land, and pays considerable attention to dairying. He was married Dec. 31, 1846, to Lucy Millard, a native of Steuben County, N. T., daughter of Ashley and Martha (Robinson) Millard, the former a native of Washington County, N. T. , and the latter of Maine. To them have been born nine children; five are living - Ella, Charles, Rose, Carrie and Mattie. One daughter, Eva, married Walter Williams, and at her death left a son - Claud. Ella married Wilford Mallory and has had seven children, but four of whom are living - Earl, Laura, Nivvie and Evvie (twins). Charles married Fannie Boorman and has one child - Floyd. He lives on the homestead with his parents. Rose

Lester Barber, section 30, Coral Township, was born in Java Tillage, Wyoming Co., N. T ., Nov. 8, 1835, a son of Humphrey Barber, a native of Massachusetts. In 1851 his parents moved to McHenry County, and settled on section 27, Kiley Township, where the father died in December, 1874, and the mother still lives. He has been Deputy County Surveyor for the past seven years. He taught school twenty-four terms, four terms in Union. Nov. 4, 1884, he was elected County Superintendent of Schools. He is now serving his seventh term as Supervisor of the township, has been Highway Commissioner nine years, and Assessor three years. Mr. Barber was married Nov. 20, 1863, to Mary M. Bartholomew, daughter of flush Bartholomew, of Marengo. They have four children - Charles N., Kittie L., Mary M. and Hattie E. Mr. Barber is a member of the Masonic fraternity. His brother Lucius was a soldier in the war of the Rebellion. He served three years, and re-enlisted; soon after his re-enlistment he was taken prisoner and was confined at Andersonville about three months. He died soon after his return home from the effects of exposure and ill treatment while a prisoner.

John D. Bliss, dealer in boots and shoes, Union, 111., is a native of Bennington, Vt., born Jan. 1, 1832, a son of Abram Bliss. His mother died when he was a child, and he was reared by his maternal grandparents, Boice, of Albany, N. Y. May 1, 1848, he came West and worked as a farm hand in Seneca Township, McHenry County, for some time. In 1852 he opened a boot and shoe store, and with the exception of the time he was in the army has continued in that business. He enlisted May 24, 1861, in Company D, Fifteenth Illinois Infantry, being one of the first to enlist in the three years' service. He was wounded at the battle of Shiloh, and discharged Dec. 16, 1862. He was married June 1, 1852, to Caroline, daughter of Charles Crawford, who moved to McHenry County from Lycoming County, Pa., in 1849. They have five children - Fannie, Alverado D., Sarah M., Frances E. and William R. Mr. Bliss is a member of Orion Lodge, No. 358, F. & A. M., and Lansing Chapter, No. 73, R. A. M. He was Postmaster of Union from 1866 till 1869. He is the present Constable of the township.

in his native county, and resided there till 1843 when he moved to McHenry County, 111., and entered eighty acres of land on section 15, Coral Township, where his family now reside. He was married Nov. 3, 1840, to Juliet Lockwood, who was born in North Springfield, Vt., Sept. 13, 1825, a daughter of Amasa Lockwood. Of their nine children but four are living - Amasa W., Turner M., Eva H. and Emily L. One daughter, Abbie J., died at the age of eighteen years. Mr. Brown died March 15, 1881. He was a member of the Baptist church. Mrs. Brown has been a member of the same church since 1 846.

David L. Davis, a prominent farmer of Coral Township, was born in South Wales, March 16, 1828, a son of David Davis. He was reared and educated in his native country, and in 1850 came to the United States and lived one year in Eaton, Madison Co., N. Y. Iu 1851 he came West and settled in Coral Township, McHenry Co., 111. He was a poor man when he came to this country, but has been industrious and economical, and now owns 290 acres of land on section 26. The first payment on the first thirty acres he bought was made by threshing oats all winter with a flail, he to receive every eighth bushel in payment for his labor. These he sold at from 10 to 15 cents a bushel. He was married in December, 1850, to Elizabeth Williams, sister of Deacon James Williams, of Huntley. Of their eleven children but seven are living - David, George, William, James, Thomas, Kate and Mary. Mr. and Mrs. Davis are members of the Methodist Episcopal church of Harmony. He has been Pathmaster and School Director of this township several years.

Reuben R. Drake, section 16, Coral Township, was born in Lysander, Onondaga Co., N. Y., Feb. 12, 1822. His father, Otis Drake, was a native of Massachusetts, but in early life went to New York, and in 1843 moved with his family to McHenry County, 111., where he died June 29, 1884, in the ninety-second year of his age. He was a soldier in the war of 1812. Reuben H. Drake has given his attention to agricultural pursuits and now owns 120 acres of land. He was married Feb. 5, 1854, to Mary J. Wright, daughter of Alva Wright. They have had five children; four are living - Emma J., wife of Thaddeus Eoss, of Marengo; Nancy M., wife of Alonzo Ross; Melvin, a grocer of Marengo, married Hattie Lawrence; Flora L.

phrey) Dunham. He remained with his parents till manhood and then began farming on his own account. lie now owns 127 acres of land and makes a specialty of dairying. He was married March 14, 1880, to Mrs. Martha Parker, widow of William Parker, and daughter of B. S. Truesdel. She has one daughter - Hattie Parker. Mr. Dunham is a member of the Masonic fraternity.

Artemus B. Dunham, son of Elijah and Annie (Humphrey) Dunham, was born in Erie County, Pa., April 23, 1823. In 1833 his parents moved to La Porte County, Ind. In the spring of 1836 Elijah Dunham came to McHenry County and took up a claim. At that time there was but one house between Elgin and1 McHenry County, and three or four log houses in Marengo. He built a house on section 8, Coral Township, and the following fall moved his family to this county, making the journey in wagons and bringing several cows and a drove of hogs with them. He was a resident of Coral Township twenty-eight years, and died March 25, 1864, in the eighty-first year of his age. His wife died May 29, 1866, aged seventy-six years. They had a family of eight children - Edward (deceased), Alvira, Lorinda, Samantha, Elmira, Artemus R., Alfred E. and Harriet. Artemus E. Dunham owns 480 acres of land on section 8, Coral Township, and has been engaged in agricultural pursuits since attaining manhood. In 1877 he and his wife were thrown from a buggy, and he received injuries which have made him a cripple, and in 1881 he rented his land and gave up the active life of a farmer. Mrs. Dunham is a member of the Presbyterian church. Although a member of no church Mr. Dunham is a constant attendant and a liberal supporter, giving all his influence to the side of law and order. He has never sought official honor, but has served his township as Highway Commissioner and School Director several years. Mr. Dunham was married Feb. 14, 1855, to Maria J. Benson, a native of Cazenovia, N. Y., daughter of George Benson. They have had two children - Chauncey, married Ella Cole, adopted daughter of Thomas Gilkerson, and Nellie is deceased.

Chauncey A. Dunham, section 5, Coral Township, was born Aug. 9, 1858, a son of Artemus R. and Maria J. (Benson) Dunham. He was reared on the old homestead farm and obtained a good education, attending the Marengo, "Woodstock and Wheaton schools. Since leaving school he has given his attention to agricultural pursuits, at which he has been very successful. He now makes a specialty of dairying, and has a herd of thirty cows. He

Rev. Henry C. Eddy, deceased, was born in Cazenovia, Madison Co., K Y.,May 6, 1832, a son of Robert Eddy. He came with his parents to Illinois in 1837 and completed his education in the schools of Marengo and Jennings Seminary, Aurora. In 1853 he went to California and preached in the Methodist Episcopal church in Sacramento Valley a year, and subsequently taught several years. When he first went West he was obliged to work some time as a common laborer in the mines. In the spring of 1864- he returned to Illinois and enlisted in Company E, Ninety-fifth Illinois Infantry, and served until the close of the war. In 1865 he went to Spring Hill, Tenn., to teach the freedmen, and at the same time preached regularly for about five years. In 1870, his health being poor, he returned to Illinois and settled on section 33, Coral Township, where he lived till his death, although he returned to Tennessee and taught during the winter* of 1870-'71. He subsequently taught and preached, as his health would admit, in McHenry County. He died June 24, 1880, leaving a large circle of friends to mourn his loss. He was married Aug. 2, 1864, to Martha E. Morris, a native of Cazenovia, N. Y., born in 1835, a daughter of Samuel E. Morris, who located in Coral Township in 1840. To them were born six children - William L., Charles W., George W., Annie L., Mary E. and Olin R.

Captain John Eddy, section 27, Coral Township, was born in Devonshire, England, July 21, 1821, a son of Robertjand Susan (Pingelley) Eddy, also natives of Devonshire. When he was a child his parents moved to America and settled in Chittenango, Madison Co., N. Y., and three years later moved to Cazenovia, the same county. In 1837 they moved to Illinois and settled on section 28, Coral Township, McHenry County, where the father died Aug. 13, 1844, aged fifty-two years. The mother still lives with our subject and is now eighty-nine years of age. She was born Feb. 7, 1796. Captain Eddy is one of the oldest settlers in the township. There is but one family living in the township that was here when he came. He saw the first mail wagon (an old emigrant or cheese wagon) that carried the mail from Chicago to Galena, in 1838. The first log school-house in the township was built on his land and he cut the first log with which to make it. Before it was finished, however, it was taken down and moved to section 33. The first well in the county was dug by his father, on section 27. It was dug early in 1837, walled up with stone, and still furnishes a good supply of pure cold water. Captain Eddy owns 340 acres of choice land, all well improved. He was married July 15, 1849, to Elizabeth, daughter of Nicholas Smalldridge, who settled in McHenry County in July, 1846. They have had five children; but four are living - Susan E., Thomas Y., Robert L. and Henry L. Susan married Albert Ushorne and has had four children - Charles R. , Bertha M., Gracie E. and Eddy G. Thomas E. married Alice A. Burns and is now practicing law in Watertown, Dak. Robert L. married Louise Brand, and has two children - Clara Adell and Lewis V. Henry L. married Sarah Davis. In the late civil war our subject enlisted in the Ninetyfifth Illinois Infantry, and was commissioned Captain of Company E. He participated in the battles of Champion Hill, Vicksburg, and many others, but in 1864 was sent home to recruit Dew troops and thus escaped some of the most severe battles. He has served in many local offices of trust, such as Sheriff, Supervisor, Justice of the Peace, School Trustee and Director.

William J. Fillmore, carriage-maker, Union, 111., was born in Middletown, Rutland Co., Vt., July 10, 1831, a son of Luther Fillmore, of Union, who was born in Rutland County, Vt., in 1804. Mr. Fillmore learned the carriage-maker's trade when a young man, and is conversant with every detail of the business. In August, 1855, he located in Coral, then the principal village of the township, and worked at his trade till after the breaking out of the war. In 1862 he enlisted in Company H, One Hundred and Twenty-seventh Illinois Infantry, and served two years. He was detailed to the Commissary Department, but in 1864 was discharged on account of disability. He was unable to work for fifteen months after his return home. He then traveled three years for Austin & Boal, wholesale dealers in farm machinery and stoves, when he had his left leg broken in a railway accident. After his recovery he traveled seven months for Jones &Laughlin, heavy iron dealers of Chicago. Their operations were stopped temporarily by the fire of 1871. Since that time Mr. Fillmore has worked at his trade in Union, where his home has been since 1862. He was married in November, 1851, to Henrietta M. Hastings who died Dec. 12, 1852. Jan. 10, 1855, he married Mary E., daughter of Charles Lyman. Six children have been born to them, five of whom are living - "William H., Charles L., Frank

M., Edith M. and Ernest F. Henrietta married Frank Dewey and died in January, 1879. Mr. Fillmore is a member of Orion Lodge, No. 358, F. & A. M., and Harley Wayne Post, No. 169, G. A. K.

Rev. William H. Fisher, section 11, Coral Township, was born in "Washington County, N. Y., May 11, 1834, a son of William Fisher. He received a common-school education and subsequently attended the Troy Conference Academy at Poultaey, Vt., and Olaverick Seminary, near Hudson, N. Y. In 1860 he came West and entered Garrett Biblical Institute, Evanston, 111., and graduated in November, 1862. In the fall of 1862 he joined the Rock Kiver Conference of the Methodist Episcopal church. He labored two years at Wyanet, two years at Piano, three years at Lockport, three years at Belvidere, three years at Roscoe, and two years at Newark. After fifteen years he took a local relation to conference and in March, 1878, came to McHenry County and settled on his present farm. He owns 448 acres of choice land, and runs a dairy of thirty-five cows, with a large herd of young stock. He was married May 15, 1864, to Mrs. Mary C. Feakins, daughter of Rev. Timothy Benedict, and widow of Wm. H. Feakins. They have two children - Harry B. and James O. Mrs. Fisher has one son by her first marriage - William T. Mr. and Mrs. Fisher are members of the Methodist Episcopal church at Marengo.

Jonas M. Frink, section 7, Coral Township, was born in Windham County, Vt, July 7, 1821, a son of Ephraim N. Frink. He waf educated in his native county and in 1839 came with his parents to McHenry County and settled in Coral Township, where he has since lived. He built a hop house on his farm and afterward converted it into the second cheese factory in the township, and carried on that business several years. He now uses it as a sorghum factory. He constructed his own mill and considers it the best he ever used. The boiling is done by steam. The engine runs the machinery that saws the wood, cuts the feed and grinds the cane. Mr. Frink has served as Assessor and Collector and is the present Thistle Commissioner of the township. He was married Aug. 18, 1846, to Prudence Bridges. They have four children - Ann E., Estella, Minnie and Charles. Mr. and Mrs. Frink are members of the Baptist church.

Carlisle Hastings, section 18, Coral Township, was born in Suffield, Hartford Co., Conn., April 25, 1815, a son of George W. and grandson of Benjamin Hastings, natives of the same county, of English ancestry. He received a good education, attending the academy of Westfield, Mass. He came to McHenry County, 111., in 1839, and settled in Coral Township, and in 1841 occupied the farm of 160 acres where he now resides. Mr. Hastings has been a life-long Democrat. In 1842 he was elected School Commissioner; in 1846 was elected County Commissioner and served two terms (six years); in 1852 was elected Sheriff, and has been Assessor since 1876. He has served as School Director over twenty years, and was Trustee several years. In all his official relations he has given satisfaction, serving in a conscientious and painstaking; manner. Mr. Hastings was married Oct. 29, 1838, to Hannah Granger, daughter of William Granger. To them have been born nine children, eight of whom are living - Flora, Agnes, Hezmer 0., George H., William G., Arnold D., Frank W. and Benjamin F. Mrs. Hastings's ancestors came from England in an early day and settled in Suffield, Conn. She is a relative of Gideon Granger, Postmaster-General under President Jefferson, and Frank Granger, ex-Governor of New York.

Edmund F. Haven, farmer and dairyman, postoffice Union, is a native of McKeen County, Pa., born Dec. 6, 1825, a son of Luther Haven, a native of Otsego County, N. Y. He received a good common-school education, and subsequently taught two terms. In 1846 he came West and settled in Seneca Township, McHenry County, but the next spring returned to Pennsylvania and resided till 1855, when he came again to McHenry County. He lived in Seneca Township till 1869, when he settled on his farm of 212 acres in Coral Township. He was married in July, 1870, to Ann Van Patton. They have had five children; but three are living - Millie G., Milan and Vine.

Chester Flint Houston, agent of the Chicago & Northwestern Railroad, at Union, was born in Charlemont, Franklin Co., Mass., Feb. 14, 1824, a son of David and Thirza (Upton) Houston, his father a native of Massachusetts, of Irish descent, and his mother a native of Charlemont. In his youth he served an apprenticeship of several years at the tailor's trade and worked at it eleven or twelve years. For eighteen years he was an officer in the Massachusetts State's Prison. We came West in 1868 and spent some time with a brother in Chicago, and afterward was with a brother in Wisconsin. In February, 1869, he assumed the duties of his present position. He was married in 1849 to Eliza A. Graves, a native of Northampton, Franklin Co., Mass., a daughter of Elisha

Graves. To them were born seven children, five of whom are living - Edwin A., Caroline M., Robert G., Frederick H. and Mary E. Mrs. Houston died Jan. 1, 1878.

George Jackson, section 22, Coral Township, was born in Yorkshire, England, in December, 1803. In 1819 his father, Bryan Jackson, brought his family to America and settled in New Castle, Pa. In 1825 George Jackson went to Utica, N. Y., and remained till 1834 when he came "West and located in Chicago, 111., at that time a mere hamlet of sixteen dwelling houses. He moved to McHenry County in 1841 and has since resided in Coral Township. He married Maria L. Hill, and to them have been born ten children, but five of whom are living; three of their sons were soldiers in the war of the Rebellion; one, George G., was killed at the battle of Chickamauga.

Wm. M. Jackson was born in the State of New York, in the year 1810. At the age of twenty-six years he moved with his father from Rochester, N. Y., to McHenry County, 111., and located in Coral Township. He taught one of the first schools in the county, Mr. Rogers teaching another school at the same time. He was elected County Commissioner in 1838; took first United States census in 1840; served as School Treasurer in the townships of Coral and Seneca; elected to the Legislature in 1842, and re-elected in 1844. He was appointed as Register in the United States Land- Office, then located at Chicago, and served four years; was elected to Constitutional Convention in 1862, and was a candidate for Member of Congress in 1854. Mr. Jackson left Coral Township several years ago, and is now a resident of Minneapolis, Minn.

Charles Lockwood, farmer, section 30, Coral Township, was born in Cazenovia, Madison Co., N. Y., May 11, 1820, a son of Joseph Lockwood, a native of Oneida County, N. Y. He was reared and educated in his native county, and in 1844 came to McHenry County, 111., and settled where he now lives. He owns 126 acres of land, well improved. He married Jerusha Miller who died leaving two children - Mary, now wife of Lehman Warner, of Mendota, III., and Henry, who married Hattie "Woodworth, and lives in Courtland, Gage Co., Neb. He subsequently married Sarah Kennedy. They have two children - Jennie and Joseph.

Edwvn R. Morris, section 33, Coral Township, was born in Madison County, N. Y., Jan. 14, 1833, a son of Samuel R. and Sally Morris. In 1840 his parents came to McHenry County and settled in Coral Township. They had a family of eight children, our subject beiDg the eldest son; six are living - Charlotte M., now Mrs. A. Thompson, of Marengo; Sarah E., now Mrs. A. 0. Adams, of Vinton, Iowa; Mary E., now Mrs. Israel St. Clair, of Dorr Township; Martha E., widow of Henry C. Eddy; Edwin E. and Wilbur F. Two sons are deceased. Edwin K. Morris received a good education, completing it at the Elgin High-School. He was married Sept. 12, 1854, to Sarah A., daughter of Kobert and Susan Eddy, sister of Captain John Eddy. They have had four children - Mary E., wife of J. W. Usborne; Lillie I., wife of Wm. H. Comstock, now of Oskaloosa, Iowa; Eddie L. and Alice M. Mr. Morris enlisted in the war of the Eebellion as a private in Company E, Ninety-fifth Illinois Infantry, and served three years. He participated in the battles ot Vicksburg, Eed Eiver campaign, Guntown, Spanish Fort and many others. He was discharged as Second Sergeant. He has given his attention to farming since the war and now owns 137 acres of fine land and keeps a dairy of twenty cows. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Politically he is a Eepublican. He is a member of Harley Wayne Post, No. 169, G. A. E.

/. Jf. Muzzy was born in West Dayton, Cattaraugus Co., N. Y., Feb 19, 1836. His father, B. F. Muzzy, died Sept. 11, 1838, aged thirty-nine years. Our subject was reared and educated in his native village, and in October, 1855, came West to McHenry County, and worked on the farms of J. Deitz, A. Eead, T. Bigelow, and P. Stowell till November, 1860, when he went to Iowa and bought a farm in Tama County. In September, 1861, he enlisted in Company H, Fourteenth Iowa Infantry; participated in the battles of Fort Henry, Donelson, and Shiloh. At Shiloh he was captured and taken to the prison at Tuscaloosa, Ala. He was discharged in October, 1862, on account of disability and returned home. In 1864 he sold his Iowa farm and returned to McHenry County, where he has met with success, and now has a comfortable home and a good farm for each of his children. Mr. Muzzy was married Oct. 10, 1863, to Sabina Bigelow, a native of Collins Center, Erie Co., N. T., born June 24, 1839, the eldest daughter of T. Bigelow. They have three children - Lucy, Frank and Emma. Their eldest child, Grant, died Oct. 12, 1S74. Mr. Muzzy is an independent thinker, temperate in habits, industrious, economical, and full of hope for the future.

Somersetshire, England. His parents came to Illinois and settled in Coral Township in 1864. In 1877 he went to Sac County, Iowa, but in 1878 returned to Huntley, and in 1879 moved to his present location, where he has built up a good business. He makes a specialty of wood-work and repairing. In July, 1870, he was married to Maria Dean, daughter of Richard Dean, an early settler of Coral Township, from New York. Mr, Dean moved to Sac County, Iowa, in 1877, and died there May 15, 1880. Mr. and Mrs. Ocock have had two children ; but one is living - Bertie, born June 14, 1875. Mr. Ocock is a member of the A. O. U. W. and Select Knights (same order). He has been School Director three years. He is Secretary and Treasurer of the Sabbath-school at Coral.

William W. Ocock, section 27, Coral Township, is a native of Somersetshire, England, born Aug. 20, 1840. His father, Henry Ocock, was born in Somersetshire, England, March 2, 1815, and married Harriet Webber, a native of Devonshire, England, born Sept. 19, 1813. They had a family of ten children, of whom six arc living. They came to the United States in 1849 and settled in Rock County, Wis., where they lived until 1864 when they moved to Coral Township, where they now live. Wm. W. Ocock enlisted in the late war in the Twelfth Wisconsin Battery; was assigned to the First Brigade, First Division, and Fifteenth Corps. He participated in the Atlanta campaign, with Sherman to the sea, and through North and South Carolina and Virginia, and was at Washington at the great review of the army. At one time during the war he was dispatch carrier to General Logan's headquarters ; had many narrow escapes. He was also in the battle at Altoona Pass where they were surrounded, when Sherman gave the signal to hold the fort until reinforcements appeared. At the close of the war, he received an honorable discharge and returned home. Nov. 18, 1869, he was married to Miss Susan E. Jabe, daughter of John Jabe, of Marengo, and settled in Coral Township. They have one child - Harry B., born Feb. 28, 1874.

Orson N. Pettingill, miller, Union, 111., was born in Lamoille County, Vt., June 16, 1844, a sou of William Pettingill, of Marengo, who came with his family to McHeury County in 1850. He was reared a farmer, but in 1868 began working at the blacksmith's trade and followed it ten years. He now does a general milling and feed business, and also runs a threshing machine during harvest. He was married Dec. 23, 1869, to Estella

Noonen, daughter of Charles Noonen. They have three children - Rollin, Ealph and Euth. Mr. Pettingill has served as Constable of the township and at present is School Director. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and has served as Senior and Junior Warden of his lodge.

Scott K. Phillips is a native of Elgin, Kane Co., 111., born Aug. 9, 1850, a son of Nathan J. Phillips, a resident of Kane County. He was reared on his father's farm and attended the common schools of Elgin, and Bryant & Stratton's Business College, Chicago. Since leaving school he has devoted his time to farming and dairying, and is also at present giving considerable attention to stock-raising. He moved to McHenry County in 1877 and settled on section 14, Coral Township, where he now owns 160 acres of choice land. He was married June 14, 1874, to Ella J. Baldwin, daughter of Lucian Baldwin, of Hampshire, Kane County. To them have been born five children, but four of whom are living - Charles, Roy, Nettie and Lucian.

Charles Bead, son of Joseph Read, of Belchertown, Mass., was born Oct. 25, 1795. He was of Puritan ancestry, being a lineal descendant of John Read who emigrated from England in 1630, and settled first at Boston, and afterward atRehoboth, Mass. Mr. Read was married Sept. 3, 1822, to Miss Harriet M. Hebard, a most estimable woman, a daughter of Rev. Asa Hebard, of Leyden, Mass. After a residence of two years in Greenwich, they settled in Athol, Mass., but in 1830 removed to Steuben County, N. Y. In 1843 Mr. Read decided to try his fortune in what was then considered the far West, and in October of that year he came to Illinois, selected a location, and sent for his family, who arrived the succeeding May. He was the first settler in the northeastern part of the town of Coral, in McHenry County. Here he lived until the death of Mrs. Read, in 1869, after which he divided his time between the old home-farm and the homes of his children. He died at the residence of his son, J. A. Read, in Union, Oct. 20, 1875. He left five children, Dr. Charles B. Read, his eldest son, was for many years a resident of Hampshire, in Kane County. He married Sarah J., daughter of John Trumbull, of that place. In April, 1883, he removed with his family to Platte, Mich., where he died Jan. 2, 1884. The other children are - George A. Read, of Pecatonica, 111.; Joseph A. Read, of Marengo, 111. ; Harriet A. M. Read, a teacher, who resides at Madison, Wis., and Maria A.,, wife of Lyman Pierce, of Hebron, 111. Mr. Read was a man of good habits and firm principles. His occupation was farming. In politics he was a Republican. He was a firm believer in the truths of the Christian religion, and a member of the Presbyterian church.

Joseph A. Read, son of Charles Eead, was born Oct. 20, 1827, at Athol, Mass., and came with his father's family to Illinois in 1844. He settled with his father in Coral, and was engaged in agricultural pursuits until 1864. He then removed to Union and engaged in the mercantile business. He also served his fellow townsmen several terms as Justice of the Peace, and a number of years as Town Treasurer. In September, 1857, he was married to Sarah M., daughter of Hezekiah Carmichael, of Coral. She died Jan. 31, 1880. They had three children - Edward Hebard, who died in infancy; Charles Hezekiah, who died of consumption, Feb. 17, 1880, in his twentieth year, and Maria Theresa, who died of consumption Dec. 16, 1880, aged sixteen years. In 1881 Mr. Read removed to Marengo where he now resides. Aug. 8, 1883, he was married to Miss Delia A. Blanchard, daughter of ¥m. Blanchard, of Marengo. Mr. Read has been an energetic, persevering, hard-working man. By prudent management, fair dealing and promptness in meeting engagements he has won the confidence of a large circle of friends, and he may be counted among the successful business men of McHenry County.

William 0. Riley, deceased, was born in County Longford, Ireland, April 5, 1829, and died at his home in McHenry County, Nov. 12, 1880. In 1848 he came to the United States and located in Otsego County, N". Y., and in 1855 came to McHenry County. He worked as a farm hand several years, but by economy and good management saved his earnings and bought a farm, and at the time of his death owned 343 acres of land on sections 12 and 13, in Coral and Grafton townships. He was a devoted member of the Catholic church, a benevolent and sympathizing friend, a good citizen, and a quiet, unassuming man. His advice was frequently sought, and was always given on the side of law and order. He married Feb. 9, 1&61, to Margaret Dyer, of Dorr Township. She was born in Will County, 111., June 21, 1839. To them were born four children - Tessie, Annie E., William E., Mary E.

William S. Ross, son of Thaddeus Ross, was born in Monroe County, N. T., July 21, 1828. When he was an infant his father died, and his mother subsequently married again. He learrfed the carpenter and joiner's trade of his step-father, and worked at it till twenty-one years of age. He came to McHenry County, 111., in June, 1843, and settled in Coral Township, a half a mile from his present home. He has followed agricultural pursuits since about 1850, and now owns eighty acres of choice land. He was married July 22, 1850, to Harriet A. Boss, daughter of John M. Boss. They have had five children ; but four are living - Emily J., now Mrs. G. B. Hovey, of Buchanan County, Iowa; Alonzo N., George A. and Lee D. Mr. Boss is a member of the Odd Fellows order.

Ephraim H. Seward, section 6, Coral Township, was born in Middletown, Butland Co., Vt., Sept. 15, 1823, a son of Jedediah Seward, a native of New England. When thirteen years of age, Jedediah Seward enlisted in the Bevolutionary war under General Washington. He served in the regular army nineteen years, and during the latter part of his service was an officer. He was a messmate of David Enos over eighteen years. He was a second cousin of Hon. William H. Seward. Ephraim H. Seward received a good education, attending the common schools and Fulton Seminary. In 1840 he went to Potomac Yalley, V"a., and sold a patent-right for internal cog gear five years, and while there formed the acquaintance of C. A. McCormick, who has since become famous as an inventor and manufacturer; at that time was running a threshing machine and working on his first reaper. Mr. Seward ran the first McCormick reaper in McHenry County, in 1850. He came to McHenry County in 1846, and entered 160 acres on section 31, Seneca Township. He located in Coral Township on his present farm, buying fifty acres of the homestead entered by Jedediah Bogers. He was married in November, 1845, to Maria L. Bogers, daughter of Anson Bogers. They have nine children - Belle, a physician of Marengo; Frank, a grocer of Marengo; Henry G., a bookkeeper in Madison, Greenwood Co., Kan.; Charles, an attorney of Watertown, Coddington Co., Dak. ; William G., a ranchman of Greenwood, Kas. ; Elsworth, an attorney of Dakota; Grace, a teacher in the Marengo High-School ; Maggie and Bichard B. , at home. Mr. and Mrs. Seward and three children, William, Belle and Grace, are members of the Presbyterian church.

Elavel L. Sheldon, section 3, Coral Township, was born in Steuben County, N. Y., Dec. 10, 1837, a son of Allen and Chloe (Picket) Sheldon. In 1840 his parents moved to McHenry County, where his father died in 1870, aged eighty-three years, and his mother in 1876, aged eighty-two years. They had a family of seven children - Allen J. died at Union in 1880; Erastus L. lives at Black River Falls, "Wis.; Samuel A., at Irving, Wis., is a physician, and served four years as Surgeon of the Twenty-sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, in the late war; Hannah"(Mrs. Ingersoll) makes her home with our subject; William H., now of Clinton, Mo., was First Lieutenant of Company I, Eighth Regiment Illinois Cavalry; Frank H. lives in Coral Township; F. L. enlisted in Company I, Eighth Illinois Volunteer Cavalry and served one year. He was married Dec. 10, 1861, to Hattie R. Robbe, daughter of W. S. Robbe, who settled in McHenry County in 1837. They have two adopted children - Logan S. and Katie. He is a member of Orion Lodge, No. 358, A. F. & A. M. ; also of Union Lodge, No. 302, 1. 0. G. T., and of Harley Wayne Post, No. 169, G. A. R. His father was a soldier in the war of 1812. His grandfather, Ephaphras Sheldon, was a paymaster in the Revolutionary war, and his greatgrandfather, Colonel of the Thirteenth Connecticut Infantry, in the same war.

Frank H. Sheldon, farmer, section 2, Coral Township, was born in Steuben County, N. Y., Feb. 2, 1835, a son of Allen Sheldon. In 1840 his parents moved to McHenry County, 111., and settled in Dorr Township. In 1854 they moved to Coral Township, where he now owns eighty acres of choice land. He was married Sept. 9, 1868, to Adelia French, a native of Binghamton, N. Y, born Aug. 26, 1849, the only child of Walter and Loantha (Ellis) French, who came to McHenry County in March, 1854. Mr. and Mrs. Sheldon have two children - Walter R. and Archie F. Mr. Sheldon is a member of the Masonic fraternity.

Ai Sherwin, the eighth of thirteen children of Levi and Hannah (Hildreth) Sherwin, was born in Townsend, Middlesex Co., Mass., May 6, 1809. His grandfather, John Sherwin, was of Welsh descent, and his maternal grandfather, Zachariah Hildreth, was a native of Westford, Mass. Mr. Sherwin remained in his native county till 1843, and then went to New Ipswich, N. H., and in 1851 to Mason, N. H., where he was station agent and master of transportation eight years. He then went to New York City and opened a restaurant, but after nine months returned to Mason and engaged in the mercantile business three or four years. In 1866 he came West and lived in Racine County, Wis., two and a half years, then removed to McHenry Co., 111., and bought a farm in Coral Township. In 1871 he opened a general mercantile store in Union, which he sold in 1881 to Leach & Mills. Mr.

of their eight children are living - Wilmot, born Jan. 29, 1835, married Christiana Shindell; Jeannette, born May 28, 1842, married 0. H. Dicks, of Lakewood, N. J. ; Eocene, born Dec. 25, 1845, married Rev. Lafayette Holt, President of Neligh College, Neb.; Ai A., born May 8, 1853, married Mattie Kittenger. Mrs. Sherwin died Dec. 28, 1873. Aug. 28, 1875, Mr. Sherwin married Mrs. Minerva Deitz, a native of New York. Mr. Sherwin was a prominent Mason and Odd Fellow in the East, but has never joined any order in the West. Politically he is a Eepublican. His first Presidential vote was cast for Henry Clay.

John W. Usborne, section 33, Coral Township, was born in Grafton Township, McHenry County, Feb. 17, 1852, a son of William and Jane (Gilbert) Usborne, natives of County Kent, England, his father born Feb. 18, 1819. William Usborne came with his parents to America in 1832, and settled in Madison County, N. Y., where he lived till 1845. He then moved to McHenry County, 111. , and settled on a farm two miles west of Huntley, which he sold in 1881 and retired from the active labors of the farm. He has six children - Mary J., Charles F., Albert H. , John W. , Louise E. and Almina J . John W. Usborne, has always lived on a farm, and is therefore familiar with all the phases of agricultural life. He now owns sixty acres of good land. He was married Feb. 7, 1877, to Mary R. Morris, daughter of E. R. Morris, of Coral Township. They have one child - Alva M., born Nov. 30, 1877. Mr. Usborne is a Prohibitionist.

Walter Warner, section 19, Coral Township, was born in Chenango County, N. Y., Dec. 13, 1813, a son of Loring Warner. In 1826 his parents moved to- Ashtabula County, Ohio, where his father died in 1835. In 1837 he moved to La Porte, Ind., and in 1840 to McHenry County, 111., where he has since made his home. In 1850 he went to California, and in 1852 returned to McHenry County. He has made two trips to California the past year (1884). Mr. Warner was married in June, 1841, to Mary C. Thompson. To them have been born four children ; but two are living - Loring and Rhoda. Loring was born in Coral Township, June 24, 1854, and now owns the old homestead which contains 172 acres of fine land. He was married Nov. 18, 1874, to Florence Nickerson, who died Feb. 13, 1881. To them were born four children, three of whom are living - Milo, Roy and Earl. July 19, 1882, he married Emma Miller. They have had one child, now deceased. Rhoda married Wells Stevens, and lives in San Benito County, Cal. She

Ira Waterman was born in Norwich, Vt. In an early day he moved to Cattaraugus County, N. Y., and in 1844 to McHenry County, and settled in Dorr Township, where he died May 7, 1854. He married Mrs. Lydia (King) and to them were born four children - Susan A., Sarah B. (deceased), George "W". (deceased), and Nathan K. Susan A. married Hon. Daniel Kinne in 1872, who was born in "Washington County, N. Y., in 1814, and died at Waterbury, Vt., Jan. 29, 1878. His father died when he was thirteen years of age, and when eighteen he went to Erie County, N. Y. He subsequently moved to Michigan, where he was a prominent man. He was a member of the Michigan Legislature two or three terms, and helped to frame the Constitution of the State. He first married Myrtilla Fritz, by whom he had five children; but two are living - Betsey S., wife of Ellis Russell, and Ann E., wife of Samuel Orr, both of Hillsdale County, Mich. Mrs. Kinne has been a successful school-teacher. She taught forty-two terms, about half the time in McHenry County. George W. Waterman married Malvina Earrar. They had four children; but three are living, now with Mrs. Kinne, who is their guardian. Nathan K. married Cordelia A. Boon, and to them have been born six children, but five of whom are living - Byron E., Frederick D., George E., Archie G. and Aurora Grace (twins). Nathan K. and Mrs. Kinne reside on section 11, Coral Township.

Chapin A. Wilcox, farmer and stock-raiser, section 20, Coral Township, was born in Manlius, Onondaga Co., N. Y., Dec. 25, 1822, a son of Grandison Wilcox. In 1856 Mr. Wilcox moved to Wisconsin and settled in Evansville, Rock County, but a year later moved to Coral Township, McHenry Co., 111., and settled on 480 acres of land, entered from the Government in 1848. He has improved his farm and added to it from time to time, till he now owns 545 acres in Coral Township, and 120 on section 36, Riley Township. In 1882 and ' 83 he built a fine brick residence. Mr. Wilcox was married June 19, 1844, to Susan A.. Smith, daughter of P. E. Smith. They three children - F. Belle, Eugene G. and Emmett S. Wilcox.

Hubbard J. Wilcox, section 8, Coral Township, was born in Chittenden County, Vt., June 21, 1829, a son of David "Wilcox. He was reared in his native county, working on his father's farm till a young man. He then learned the wheelwright's trade, at which he worked eight years. In 1844 he came to Illinois and lived in Da Page County, till 1882, when he moved McHenry County and settled on his present farm in Coral Township. He was married Dec. 25, 1858, to Alice J. Brand. She died Sept. 23, 1879, leaving three children - Frank, Edson, and Frederick. May 26, 1880, Mr. "Wilcox married Nettie Kellogg, a native ofDeKalb County, 111. , and a daughter of Leander P. Kellogg, who moved from Vermont to De Kalb County, in 1844. Mrs. Wilcox is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Chapter Xviii

Location. - Description. - Brooks and Streams. - Railroad. - Named for Governor Dorr. - Settlement. - Virginia Settlement. - First Events. - Presbyterian Church of Ridgefield. - School Statistics. - Ridgefield Cemetery. - Creamery. - Earlf Reminiscences. - Ridgefield Village, Laid out in 1855 by Wm. Hartman. - Postoffice. - Township Officers.

Woodstock. - Location and Appearance. - Its Beginning and Growth. - First Events. - Early Settlers. - Mercantile and Industrial History. - Incorporated as a Village, 1852. - List of Village Officers. - City Government Formed, 1873. - List of City Officers. - Account of Memorable Fires. - The Fire Department. - Postoffice. - Woodstock Mineral Springs. - The Centennial Fourth. - Items. - A Curious Ordinance. - The Public Schools. - Private Schools. - Churches and Societies. - Biographical.

Dorr is one of the centrally located townships. Greenwood lies on the north, Seneca on the west, Grafton on the south and Nunda on the east. It is township 4i, range 7.

This township contains no prairie land though comparatively level. The eastern portion contains considerable timber, while the main portion has been cleared and converted into fine farming land. ,

This township is not so bountifully supplied with water as some. The northwest corner is crossed by Hanley Creek. About two miles north of Woodstock a branch of the Kishwaukee rises and flow into Grafton Township.

Railroad

The Chicago & Northwestern Railroad crosses this township in a northwesterly direction, passing through Ridgefield and Woodstock, making about seven miles of track in the township.

Name

show their admiration for Governor Dorr, of Rhode Island, who, it will be remembered, opposed the English laws which then controlled that State, under the charter of Charles II. , which made the eldest son the only heir to his father's estate.

Settlement

Uriah Cattle was the first man who ever made a claim in this township. He came from Virginia in the fall of 1834 and made a claim for himself and for several other friends of Yirginia. He returned home, and the following spring came accompanied with "William Hartman, Charles and John McClure, and John Walkup. They settled in the eastern portion of the township, known to-day as the Yirginia Settlement. They arrived Monday morning and by the following Saturday night they had their shanties up and roofed, though most of them did without floors for several months. Here Mr. Cattle made his home till his death, which occurred several years ago. He was born in Nicholas County, Va. His family consisted of three sons and four daughters - Sarah M. is single and resides in Center Point, Iowa; Martha is the wife of Geo. K. Bunker, of "Woodstock; "William died at the age of six months; Ruth L. died in McHenry County, at the age of three years; Charles "W. died at the age of twenty -one and is buried at Ridgefield; John C. died at the age of twenty-five from injuries received in he army by the explosion of a shell; his remains lie in Ridgefield cemetery; Elizabeth S. married Herman "Wayne and resides at Center Point, Iowa. Uriah Cattle was a life-long member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and was always loved and esteemed is home there till 1876 when he died. James Dufield, also a Virginian, who settled here about the same time, is still a resident of the township. William Hartman still resides where he took up his claim at Ridgefield.

First Events

The first birth was Martha McClure, daughter of John McClure. This event took place in the fall of 1835. She lived to the age of seventeen years.

The first marriage took place May 13, 1839. Contracting parties were Oscar H. Douglass and Sarah Gaff. The ceremonj' was performed by Kev. Joel Wheeler, of McHenry.

In the spring of 1838 the first religious organization in the county was established in Dorr Township by Rev. Wilcox, a Methodist minister, at the house of Uriah Cattle. At this organization many Presbyterians and Congregationalists came under the watch care of the church and remained with this Methodist guardian till their numbers became large enough for them to form their own societies. For twenty years this Methodist church was an organized body, but was finally disbanded on account of other churches springing up and the members drawing out. They built a house of worship three miles east of Woodstock, about the year 1850. It was afterward moved to Ridgefield where it was used as a church till it was destroyed by a tornado.

Presbyterian Church of Ridgefield. - This is perhaps one of the largest and oldest organized societies in the county. Its members are scattered over the eastern half of Dorr Township and constitute the leading citizens of the community. The congregation averages an attendance of about 100 while its actual membership is sixtysix. For many years they worshiped in what is now known as the Old Church, which was repliced with a good and stately edifice in 1873. It stands at the end of a broad street where its tall steeples and beautiful architectural design present quite a commanding appearance. The church is not only in a prosperous condition but the Sabbath-school is making fine progress. Its average attendance is about seventy-five.

Ridgefield Cemetery

This is the only cemetery in the town except the one at Wood stock. It was laid out by Charles McOIure as a private burying ground in 1835, but one after another was allowed to bury their dead here till finally it became a spot where the interests of the whole neighborhood centered, and has since then been used by the public generally. It is divided by the east line of Dorr Township, the greater portion lying in Nunda Township. It contains about two acres and is kept in a creditable condition.

Creamery

Dorr Township has but one creamery. It is situated about two miles north of Woodstock and was built in 1878 by It. B. Cooney, who ran it about one year and then sold out to Frank Slator, who ran it about two years and sold out to William Boice, of Marengo, who still owns the property. It is a large establishment and is doing a flourishing business.

Early Reminiscences

The first grain that was ever raised in the county was hauled by William Hartman to a mill within three miles of Ottawa, 111., a distance of seventy miles. The amount was three sacks of corn belonging to Charles McClure. Mr. Hartman started to go to Du Page Mill about forty -five miles distant, but was told where he put up at night that he could get no grinding done there on account of the water being so low that it would not run the power.

By the following narrative we were reminded of the difference between the snrroundiugs of the people of McHenry County of 1884 and of 1835: In the fall of 1835 Mr. Hartman was compelled to go to Aurora, 111., to buy corn for his family to live on during the coming winter. He succeeded in procuring ten bushels by paying $1 per bushel. Finding that his own corn held out better than he expected he did not take this to mill till the following March, when the long journey to Dupage Mill was taken, but upon arrival found the mill frozen up and already so full of grain that he was compelled to store his in a private house. The third trip was made in the interests of this meal, which proved to be spoiled and worthless.

Ridgefield Village

This village was laid out in January, 1855, by William Hartman, who owned the land where the village is now situated. The village was in an early day called Virginia Settlement, but waB afterward changed through the request of the railroad company. The name Ridgefield was proposed by J. R. Mack, who laid out the plat. Mr. Hartman gave his consent to this name which it has since borne. Mr. Hartman sold the lots so low through his desire to offer inducements to people to come and locate that the enterprise was not a paying one.

David Gaff kept the first hotel; he ran it several years and afterward rented the building to a Mr. Holmes, who ran it a short time. There has not been for many years a hotel in the place.

The first postoffice was established about the year 1837, about one and a half miles west of where Ridgefield now stands, at the residence of Christopher Walkup, where William Walkup now lives.

Christopher Walkup was the first Postmaster and held the position till the railroad came through the township and the office was taken to Ridgefield and the name changed from Lezien to Ridgefield.

The first Postmaster at Ridgefield was Isaac Hamilton who was appointed deputy under his brother and had entire charge of the office; he afterward became Postmaster by appointment from Government. He held the office about ten years in both capacities. The present Postmaster, A. F. Davis, was appointed in 1876.

At the first township election held in the court-house in Woodstock, April 2, 1850, the following officers were elected: E. I. Smith, Supervisor; Charles Fitch, Clerk; John Bunker, As- sessor; Henry Duffield, Ira Waterman, and O. A. Hitchcock, Commissioners of Highways; Nelson Blakesley, Collector; Lindsey Joslyn, Poor Master; fm. H. Murphy and Nelson Blakesley, Constables; Russel Enos and Christopher Walkup, Justices of the Peace. The present officers are: E. M. Lamb, Supervisor; E. P. Barnes, Clerk; Geo. T. Sherwood, Collector; John D. Short, Assessor; Jacob Zimmerman, Jacob Snyder, and O. S. Marton, Commissioners of Highways; H. G. Ehle, V. E. Jones, and Henry Menroe, Constables; E. B. Smith, and JohnD. Short, Justices of the Peace; Wm. P. Walkup, School Trustee.

The county seat of McHenry County is an enterprising city of about 2,000 inhabitants, situated near the geographical center of the county and surrounded by rich farming districts on every side. The site of the city is beautiful, the greater portion of it being slightly elevated above the surrounding country, while a general air of neatness and thrift, evident on every hand, adds much to the natural beauties of the place. The well-kept park in the center of the business portion of the city, the substantial brick blocks around it, the shaded streets and the comfortable and elegant private residences all declare to the chance visitor that the citizens are possessed of enterprise, intelligence, and good taste. In its general aspect it is far more like a New England county seat than a Western town. It is a city of homes, too - homes, many of which are costly and beautiful, and all of which are neat and comfortable.

The town was laid out by Alvin Judd in 1844. After the plat was made Judd sold it to George C. Dean, who, in June, 1844, caused it to be recorded.

The place was first called Centreville; but as there are hundreds of villages and towns of the same name in the United States, the citizens early showed their good sense in seeking an appelation somewhat less common, and in February, 1845, the Legislature of the State passed an act changing the name to Woodstock.*

The first house within the limits of the town plat was built by Bradford Burbank, in 1843. It was a log building and was removed years ago. -

*Joel H. Johnson, Esq., was instrumental in securing the passage of tbe bill above mentioned. The town was called after Woodstock, Vt., which was the native place of Mr. Johnson as well as of other early settlers of the county.

Alvin Judd erected a frame building, second house in the town, in 1844, and opened the first tavern. Joel H. Johnson built the third house, also frame, in the winter of 1845-'6. It is still standing, just west of the Baptist church, and is now occupied by Mr. Ed. Fured.

In an old copy of the Woodstock Sentinel the following list of early settlers of town is given with the date of their coming to the county and to Woodstock:

Came To

The city has never had any periods remarkable for rapid growth. It has, however, progressed and improved steadily, thus ensuring substantial prosperity.

With the completion of the new court-house in 1857 the citizens began to exhibit an active iuterest in village improvement. In 1858 and 1859 the public square was graded and shade trees were set out. Work on the streets was constantly and vigorously carried on, new streets made and old ones improved, sidewalks laid, and rubbish removed, until now Woodstock is noted far and near for its neat streets, good walks and thrifty appearance.

Mercantile And Industrial

The first store in Woodstock was opened in 1845 by Josiah Dwight and Oscar L. Beach. It stood where Whitson's hardware store now is. A little later in the same year Henry Petrie opened a store where John Donnelly's now is. He continued business here about five years.

The firm of Dwight & Beach was subsequently changed to Beach & Norton, and finally A. B. Norton conducted the business alone. They had but a small stock. A. W. Fuller started a store in 1848; subsequently I. B. Lyon became a partner under

Wm. Gunning and Allen Dufield opened a store in 1849 and carried on business about a year. Gunning then sold out to John McClure. The business was closed about three years later.

Neill Donnelly opened a general store in 1849 and continued in business until 1883 when he died. He was a shrewd business man, honest and very successful.

Ira C. Trowbridge set up a boot and shoe establishment in 1847 and continued in trade until about 1866 when he sold out and went to Minnesota.

About 1849 the first hardware store was opened by Mr. Mans field who continued in business several years. J. A. Da engaged in the same business later. F. C. Joslyn opened a hardware store in 1868.

A drug store was opened by C. B. Durfee in 1851. He *soon took Chris. Walters as partner. In 1854 Dr. Baldwin bought the establishment and conducted it for three years. He then sold out and moved to Elgin, and Durfee & Walters opened a dry-goods store.

A drug store was also started in 1852 by Joseph Golder and Dr. Hedger. The latter died a few months later. In 1856 Dr. 0. S. Johnson and Dr. A. D. Merritt bought the store of Golder. Johnson subsequently sold to Merritt, and Merritt to a Frenchman: the latter sold to Holmes & Marvin, who were succeeded by Drs. Davis & Northrup, Nathan Jewett and Dr. Richardson. The latter took Anderson Murphy as a partner. Richardson next sold to L. T. Hoy and the firm was Hoy & Murphy until 1880, since when L. T. Hoy has been sole proprietor.

About 1867 Dr. Stone bought C. B. Durfee's drug store. Several years later he sold out to Dr. Adams who conducted business until his death. J. S. Wheat and A. S. Wright then bought the stock, and under the name Wheat & Wright the business was conducted until 1880. A. S. Wright has since been proprietor.

The first jewelry store was established by Geo. F. Mills who was in business about seven years. He was succeeded by George Sylvester, and Sylvester by M. Sherman who still conducts the business. E. W. Blossom opened the next jewelry store in 1866 and s still in trade.

The first wagon-makers in the village were two brothers named Eddy who opened a shop in 1846. The first blacksmith was H. P. Norton, and the first shoemaker, Ira. C. Trowbridge.

The first school was taught in the old court-house (then new) in 1846. The first religious services were also held in the courthouse. They were conducted by Rev. Howe, a Presbyterian clergyman, in the winter of 1844-'5.

Alvin Judd was the first hotel-keeper, opening his house to the public in 1844-'5. It stood where the bank now is. Martin Thrall bought it in 1855, and about five years later sold out to 0. A. Kent who enlarged and improved the building and made it the Exchange Hotel. He died while its proprietor, and his family continued the business until about 1868. H. H. Hildreth was the next proprietor, succeeded by John H. Thomas. The hotel was destroyed by fire in 1872.

The Waverly House was built by Roswell Enos in 1851. In 1854 it fell into the hands of Leander Church who enlarged it and gave it its present name. Church sold out tojDaniel W. Robinson who further enlarged the building to its present size. He rented it to Geo. S. Sherwood, the present proprietor.

A saw-mill was erected in 1852 by Enos W. Smith, and ran fo about four years, doing a considerable business. H. M. Wait and others started a flax-mill in 1846, and soon after converted it into a planing-mill.

Gilbert B. Dake and Cornelius Quinlan built a steam flouring mill in the north part of the city in 1856. It proved an unprofitable venture and the mill has not been in operation for several years. Later a grist-mill was run for a time in Phoenix Block

In 1866 J. C. Teeple and Henry Eckert erected a foundry and machine-shop on Dean street, near the depot, at a cost of $8,000. They carried on business in partnership for a time. Then Teeple sold out and Eckert continued alone. The property next came into the hands of L. H. S. Barrows, the present owner. The foundry part of the business was abandoned some time ago.

In 1868 C. B. Durfee began the manufacture of drain tile at Woodstock. Soon after, the industry took the name of the Woodstock Brick, Drain Tile and Peat Works, using the peat found ia the vicinity for fuel. The business was closed in 1873.

Banking. - Dr. C. B. Durfee began the banking business about 1852, and carried it on for about two years when he failed and was succeeded by the firm of Fuller, Johnson & Co., which was at first composed of A. W. Fuller, C. B. Durfee, L. S. Church, Neill Donnelly, J. H. Johnson and G. W. Bentley. This firm reorganized under the National banking law and became the First National Bank; but in 1869 C. B. Durfee & Co. again commenced business which they continued until 187-, the firm consisting of C. B. Durfee, E. E. Sherwood, D. W. Robinson, J. S. Wheat, Henry W. Mead, M. L. Joslyn, J. A. Parrish and D. P. Conklin. In May, 1875, T. D. Murphy and R. Bishop opened the Farmers' Bank, a rivate banking institution, which continued about three years.

National Bank. - The First National Bank of Woodstock was organized in 1864, with a capital of $50,000. L. S. Church, President; C. B. Durfee, Cashier; N. Donnelly, M. F. Irwin, L. S. Church, C. B. Durfee, A. M. Fuller and J. H. Johnson, Directors. Edward A. Murphy is the present President, and John J. Murphy, the Cashier.

Woodstock was incorporated by a special act of the Legislature approved June 22, 1852, and the Government vested in a president and Board of Trustees. The charter was afterward amended several times.

Woodstock was incorporated as a city in 1873. The vote upon the question of city government was taken March 24, 1873, and resulted as follows: For city organization, 109 votes; against, 0.

Town Officers

Officers of the incorporated village of Woodstock for the year 1852: President, Alvin Judd; Trustees, Joseph Golder, L. S. Church, C. B. Durfee, J. C. Trowbridge, George H. Griffins; Clerk, Charles Fitch; Town Surveyor, John Brink; Constable and Collector, L. W. McMaster; Treasurer, Charles Fitch.

1855. - Neill Donnelly, President; L. W. McMaster, Treasurer and Assessor; Henry A. Tower, Constable and Collector; Geo. A. Austin, Clerk; Geo. W. Tyler, Surveyor; Thomas Whitson, Arad Sly, J. H. Johnson, John Donnelly, M. B. Baldwin, Caleb Rich, Trustees.

1864. - Win. Kerr, President; M. H. McCahill, Constable and Collector; G. B. Dake, Assessor and Treasurer; L. H. Davis, H. B. Burton, A. W. Fuller, Wm. Hart, Jr., Geo. H. Griffing, A. E. Smith, Trustees.

1867. - Johu S. Wheat, President; Wm. H. Murphy, Constable and Collector; W. P. Jewett, Assessor and Treasurer; J. A. Parrish, Clerk; Elam M- Lamb, J. S. Medlar, Jas. Northrop, A. W. Fuller, K. Diesel, Neill Donnelly, Trustees.

City Officers

1873. - John S. Wheat, Mayor; T. L. Maher, Clerk; J. J. Murphy, Treasurer; M. C. Johnson, Attorney; Aldermen: South Ward, W. H. Stewart, one year; G. K. Bunker, two years; A. Badger, one year; North Ward, E. E. Richards, one year; T. J. Dacy, two years; F. Arnold, two years; S. Van Curen, Marshal; A. J. Murphy, Street Commissioner.

1880. - Mayor, clerk, attorney and treasurer, the same as in 1879; J. S. Wheat, Street Commissioner; B. Sherman, Marshal; Aldermen: R. Diesel, two years, North Ward; A. K. Bunker, two years, E. W. Blossom, two years, South Ward.

Memorable Fires

Few towns of the size of Woodstock have suffered more from tires than this city during the last quarter of a century. An account of the most memorable conflagrations is here given.

In 1851 the buildings on the south side of the public square were destroyed by a fire which originated in the office of the Woodstock Argus. Ira Trowbridge, Alonzo Anderson, Jacob Petrie and the Argus were among the principal losers. Trowbridge rebuilt the next year. Anderson erected the structure long known as the "Woodstock House." C. B. Durfee and J. H. Johnson erected other buildings.

On Friday, Feb. 24, 1860, a fire broke out in Clapp's tin store, on the east side of the public square, but it was extinguished before much damage was done. On the next night, between eleven and twelve o'clock, the loft of a livery stable owned by M. L. Joslyn, on Main street, was discovered to be on fire. The stable was soon destroyed, the horses being rescued. Henry Sherwood's saloon and R. G. Schryver's furniture rooms also burned. The total loss was about $5,000. An Irishman named Cosgrove was arrested on the suspicion that he was the incendiary. He created some excitement a few days later by trying to commit suicide by hanging, in his cell at the jail. He was discovered, cut down, and revived.

Sunday, Oct. 8, 1871, the date on which the great Chicago fire began, Woodstock suffered a fire which destroyed about $20,000 worth of property, including several stores. Altogether nine buildings were burned. - The lire began in a hay-stack in the rear of James Lunny's saloon, at the southwest corner of the public square, and was discovered as the people were returning from church just after noon. The chief losers were John Bunker, Bunker Bros., Brink & Sanford, James Lunny, J. McMahou, C. H. & E. W. Blossom, J. Thomas and John Donnelly.

On the night of Tuesday, Aug. 27, 1872, Woodstock suffered her greatest loss from fire. All the buildings on the east side of the public square, from Dacy's warehouse to the "Rat Hole," were burned, - sixteen places of business, one dwelling and three barns. Theestimated loss was $31,000. Among the losers were: The .National Bank, on building ; John Thomas, Exchange Hotel, furniture ; Holcomb Brothers, building ; C. H. Dickinson, boot and shoe store; E. Furer, building; F. Arnold, stock and building; Thomas Whitson & Sons, hardware store ; D. W. Robinson, buildings ; J. Forman & Son, grocers ; J. L. Hoyt, boots and shoes; T. B. Wakeman and J. A. Parrish, lawyers. Several others whose names are not given lost from $100 to $500 worth of property each. As yet the town had no fire engine. The fire was supposed to have been incendiary.

Saturday, June 5, 1875, a fire in Woodstock destroyed $10,000 worth of property, burning I. A. Austin's livery stable and seven fine horses ; also a warehouse, owned by Mrs. Hunt.

On Saturday, March 6, 1880, about $25,000 worth of property was destroyed by fire. The buildings destroyed were T. J. Dacy's block and R. C. Jefferson's grain warehouse. The fire was discovered about five o'clock a. m. Investigation showed that burglars had been at work, and that the safes of the American Express Company and of Mr. Dacy had been blown open. The robbers secured no money, but took several valuable papers. The principal losers by the fire were ; T. J. Dacy, $13,000, insurance $4,000 ; Furer & Slocum, grain in Jefferson's warehouse, $1,975; E. R Bird, $1,500 ; J. H. Durfee, $2,000 ; R. C. Jefferson, building, $3,000 ; W. D. Ringland, New Era office, $2,000 ; H. D. Judd, feed store, $1,800. Mr. Jefferson had no insurance upon his building. Most of the other losses were partially covered by insurance.

Fire Department

The corporation purchased a fire engine in Chicago in 1857, for $500. When it was tested it was found that it would not throw water. After some delay the engine was sent back and a part of the amount paid was recovered.

Thenceforth until costly experience had taught the citizen the need of apparatus for the extinguishment of fires, the town was without any fire department whatever. In 1872 the citizens raised by subscription a sufficient amount to pay for a fire engine, which was procured near the end of the year.

In January, 1873, a fire company was organized with A. S. Stewart, Foreman; B. Sherman, First Assistant; J. M. Southworth, Second Assistant; J. Yan Slyke, Captain of Hose; Frank Bunker, Assistant; Chas. G. Thomas, Secretary; N. S. Norton, Treasurer; M. Goddard, Steward.

Soon after the engine was procured, the city bought hose, buckets, ladders, etc., and the fire department is now as efficient and well equipped as most volunteer organizations.

In 1871 the corporation caused wells to be dug on the public square for use in case of fire. In 1872 a lot was purchased and an engine-house erected.

The postoffice was established in 1844. Alvin Judd was the first Postmaster. He resigned in 1845 and Martin Thrall became his successor. Thrall was Postmaster three or four years, and was succeeded by Josiah Dwight, who kept the office until 1853. His successors have been F. D. Austin, 1853-'7; Dr. O. S. Johnson, 1857-'61; A. E. Smith, 1861-'6; Win. E. Smith, 1866; O. H. Crandall, 1866-7 ; M. F. Irwin, 1867-'9; Wm. E. Smith, 1869-75; AsaW. Smith, 1875-'9; G. S. Southworth, 1879, present incumbent. Woodstock became a money-order office in 1866. The first order was issued Aug. 21, 1866, by E. Barton, to A. A. Kelly & Co., of Chicago; amount, $9. The first order was paid Aug. 7, 1866, to John D. Short; amount, $40. It was issued by Dr. Asa Horn of Dubuque, Iowa.

Woodstock Mineral Spring

one of the most useful adjuncts of the city. Aside from the convenience to the public, the water contains valuable medicinal properties. It is believed that it has proved beneficial in a number of cases. A spring-house was built in 1873, which is an ornamental feature of the park.

Gentlemen: - Having subjected the water from the "Woodstock Mineral Spring to a chemical analysis, I find it contains in each gallon of 231 cubic inches, the following substances in the quantities given:

The composition of the water is such as to recommend it in the treatment of numerous afflictions. Being mildly alkaline, through the presence of the bicarbonate of soda, lime and magnesia, it will undoubtedly be found valuable in many diseases of the stomach, bowels and kidneys, while the considerable proportion of iron that is present is very desirable in combinations, rendering it mildly tonic, and suggest its employment in the various forms of debility, anaemia, etc.

The Centennial Fourth

Woodstock has always been noted for the spirit and enthusiasm with' which it has entered into the celebration of the Fourth of July. But the largest and most successful celebration was held here on July 4, 1876. A large crowd, estimated at from 6,000 to 8,000 people, was in attendance, principally from this county, and the exercises were carried out in a very successful manner. As an inducement for people to attend, the city had offered to present a fine banner to that town which should send the largest delegation to the celebration. The city was decorated with nags, and the entrances to the park were ornamented by evergreen arches, skillfully and tastily arranged. The exercises began with a parade in which the Woodstock Band, the Knights' Templar, the Odd Fellows and the Fantastics and Horribles took part. There was also a car of thirty-eight young ladies, representing the States of the Union; a wagon containing thirteen damsels in poke bonnets, following the (supposed) load of tea thrown into Boston harbor more than 100 years before; the May Flower, and other features. Altogether a very entertaining exhibition was made.

- The speaking began at twelve o'clock. The President of the day, Judge Murphy, had just commenced, when the "Indians" boarded the tea-ship and began throwing the chests into the sea. When the tea party had ceased its operations, the Judge concluded this remarks and introduced Rev. Mr. Buell who offered prayer. The choir then sang the Centennial Hymn. Miss Florence Sessions read the Declaration of Independence, after which the choir sang " America."

Hon. B. N. Smith then delivered an oration; the choir rendered the "Anvil Chorus," and the Meennerchor, a German song. Following came the speech of Rev. T. C. Northcott, and singing of the " Star Spangled Banner" by Mrs. Hall.

Mayor Donnelly, in a few appropriate remarks, then presented the banner to the town of Seneca, this town having the largest delegation (789 persons) in attendance, C. 0. Parsons responded in behalf of the town. The exercises concluded with music.

Then came a" slow" mule race, a wheelbarrow race, greased pig race, foot race, sack race, hurdy gurdy, etc. In the evening the Woodstock Dramatic Association presented " The Hidden Hand " to a large and appreciative audience.

There were also fireworks worthy of the occasion. Altogether the celebration was the largest and most successful ever witnessed in Woodstock.

Prominent Industries

The pickle factory of Squire Dingee & Co. was first established by a stock company, formed in 1873 with a capital stock of $50,- 000. The building was erected in 1874 and E. T. Hopkins, from the East, was put in charge of the establishment. The business was not successful under this management, and the factory was next leased for five years to Heintz, Noble & Co. More money was raised, a new engine procured, vinegar machines set up, additions built to the factory, and the number of tubs doubled. But this firm followed the example of its predecessor - and failed. The factory was next operated partly on the co-operative plan. J. J. Wilson was the next manager, and he, in 1880, was succeeded bv the present proprietors, Squire Dingee & Co. The works have a capacity for 55,000 bushels per year. There are fifty-five vats for salting purposes. Employment is given to twelve men in the busy season, and the amount of products shipped to various parts of the country is eight or ten car-loads per week. The establishment is wholly devoted to bulk goods, putting up in sizes varving from one gallon pails to barrels. The concern manufactures its own vinegar consuming about 3,000 barrels per year.

The original establishment of Squire Dingee was erected by him at Rose Hill, on the Milwaukee division of the Northwestern Railroad, in 1858. The capacity of that establishment is 200 barrels per day. The goods of this firm are sent to the far Western Territories as well as to the Eastern States, and have an excellent reputation throughout the country.

The pickle factory of Norman Frame & Co. is undoubtedly the largest establishment of the kind in McHenry County. The annual product since the business was started reaches the enormous amount of 60,000 bushels, requiring a capital of over $30,000 to carry on the business. The buildings are located in the north side of Woodstock near the railroad track where are at hand first-class facilities for shipping. This partnership was formed in 1881 consisting of Norman Frame and Judge T. D. Murphy, who have recently become the owners of the valuable vinegar pickle works situated at the east side of Woodstock and now held by a lease by Squire Dingee & Co.

The Pickle Growers' Union was organized in 1881 with about 100 members. Mr. Edward Short and others stood at the head of the enterprise, the object being to store their own pickles and take advantage of the markets which are usually better late in the season. During the past three years they have done a business of $40,000 with no material losses. They charge parties not belonging to the union only the customary prices for storage, and out of this fund they have been able to pay for their buildings and tanks. The members of the union receive the full benefit of the sales of their products less the expense of caring for them. This netted the growers a profit of $1.07 per bushel for the year 1881, and a net profit of 57£ cents per bushel for the crop of 1882. And for the crop of 1883 a net profit of 75 cents per bushel. Their building is situated near the railroad track, on the north side of Woodstock, and has a capacity for 25,000 bushels. The membership keeps np to about 100; though some have drawn out others have entered the union. Officers are elected annually who comprise the business head of the union, transacting all business as their better judgment may direct, and striking the dividends after all expenses are deducted. Present officers are: T. McD. Richards, President; Mark Hickox, Treasurer; Edward Short, Secretary.

The Woodstock Brewery is found among the most active industries of McHenry County. It is located one half-mile west ot Woodstock and owned by the firm of Arnold, Zimmer & Co., who became the owners and proprietors in 1868. The business was established some twenty-seven years ago by Mr. John Bertchey, who erected a small building and for several years engaged in the manufacture of common beer.

Gradually the business has increased and new facilities aud buildings have been added which required an investment of many thousand dollars. A never failing spring supplies them with pure water while a small creek fills their artificial ice pond.

The property consists of the brewery proper with its commodious malt and fermenting rooms, bottling and cooling rooms, cellars, etc., besides three mammoth ice-houses, and stables, sheds, etc., necessary for teams and wagons. This firm uses annually from 20,000 to 25,000 bushels of malt, the greater part of which they make themselves.

They employ from twenty to twenty-five hands, own twelve horses and eight wagons, which are kept in constant use. They manufacture about 800 barrels of beer per month during the summer; their annual amount is about 7,000, including the brands Standard Bohemian and Export. The bottling department is a new branch of their business but so far they have bottled 650 dozen per month. Their beer has a large sale in Woodstock, Harvard, Janesville, Wis., Eockford, Clinton, Elgin, Dundee, and, in fact, all the principal points within a radius of fifty miles around. This company owns, in connection with the brewery, 180 acres of land upon which they feed cattle, shipping annually several car-loads of heavy, fat steers.

malt and hops, aloes never being used as is the custom with some brewers. Their beer is always in great demand, sometimes making it quite difficult for them to promptly fill their orders. A visit to this brewery will disarm a person of his strongest prejudices when he sees what care and cleanliness is used in the manufacture of this great American beverage.