Decatur Township (part 13 of 46)

Oscar F. Matthew, the Doctor's father, was born in Kentucky, January 30, 1821, and was a farmer by occupation. He wedded Margaret Britten, who was born near Cynthiana, Ohio, in 1821, a daughter of Benjamin Britton, who was a veteran of the Mexican war and became a farmer near Springfield, Illinois, living in the Cotton Hill neighborhood. Throughout his entire life he followed farming. In 1861 he became a constable and served as such for eight years. He died in 1868. It was in pioneer times in the development of Illinois that the father of the Doctor came to this state and he, too, lived in the Cotton Hill district. His death occurred February 12, 1881, and he was buried in the Cotton Hill cemetery. His wife, long surviving him, passed away at Edinburg, Illinois, December 16, 1898, and luT remains were then interred by his side. In the family of this worthy couple were nine children, of whom the eldest, Anna E., died in childhood. \\'. S. Matthew, D. D., now fifty-five years of age, is presiding elder of the San Francisco district in California. He is a graduate of the Xorlhwestern University of Evanston, lllin(_iis. and preached in Taylorville for three years; in Springfield three years; Red Wing, Minnesota, two years; and St. Paul, Minnesota, two years. He was dean of the Los Angeles Llniv^rsity for four years, was editor of the Christian Advocate of San Francisco and lives in Berkley, California. The Doctor is the third of the family. The next is Rebecca Jane Poffenbarger, a widow, residing in Edinburg, Illinois. Thomas L. is a retired farmer at Springfield. L. L. is a farmer and stock-raiser living near Pawnee, Illinois. Mary is the. wife of John T. Vigal, a farmer and stock-raiser of Mexico, Aiissouri. Luticia died in girlhood and Oscar, Jr., died in infancy.

Dr. Matthew was a lad of seven summers when in 1857 his parents settled in the Cotton Hill district near Springfield, Illinois. He attended the common schools and also the Cotton Hill Academy and in 1870 he entered the office of Drs. L. H. and J. H. Clark, of Taylorville, with whom he studied for two years. Lie next attended lectures in the American Medical College at St. Louis for two years and was graduated on the I2th of May, 1875, after which he removed to Mount Auburn, where he began the practice of medicine on the 22d of May of that year. There he resided continually until November 9, 1892, when he removed to Blue Mound, where he has since engaged in active practice, having now a large patronage.

On the 26th of March, 1868, occurred the marriage of Dr. Matthew and Miss Amanda E. Lawlcy, a daughter of William B. and Sarah M. (Duncan) Lawley, the former a native of Tennessee and the latter of Illinois. Mrs. Matthew belonged to a family of six sons and four daughters and her brothers, David, Elijah and James, were all soldiers in the One Hundred and Fourteenth Illinois Infantry, serving in Company E under Captain Adam Hiveley and Colonel Shoup. One sister of Mrs. Matthew died in infancy. Ruth Jane became the wife of Lawrence Salanger and lives in Palmer,

Illinois. Sara M. is the wife of William Knotts, residing near Chatham, Illinois. Elmer died in childhood. Leonard N. resides at the old family homestead in Cotton Hill. Unto J\Ir. and Mrs. Matthew were born five children, but three died in infancy. The oldest and the youngest, however, are still living. These are Charles Edgar, who at the age of thirty-three years is engaged in farming, and William Oscar, who is twenty-two years of age and is attending the Northwestern University. He is a graduate of the Blue Mound high school and spent three years in the academy of the Northwestern University.

In addition to his practice Dr. Matthew is financially interested in industrial affairs, holding sixteen shares in the Illinois Skein & Nutlock Company at Pana, Illinois. He is a member of the Illinois State Eclectic Medical Society and the National Eclectic Medical Society. In politics he has always been a Republican and takes an active interest in the work of the party. While living at Mount Auburn he was appointed postmaster, but resigned in favor of an old soldier. He belongs to the Methodist Episcopal church and the Masonic lodge and to the Royal Arch Chapter. He also holds membership relations with Joe Miller Post, of the Fraternal .\rniy. the Mutual Protective League and is medical examiner for the Equitable Life Insurance Company of New York, the Prudential of New York, the Franklin of Springfield, Illinois, and the Fidelity Mutual Life Insurance Company of Philadelphia, and is likewise examiner for the Fraternal Army and the Mutual Protective League.

Each year the Matthew family has an annual reunion held on the last Thursday in August at Reservoir Park in Springfield. The Doctor has some valuable old papers, including a land grant issued and signed by John Quinc}' Adams and also letters received by his father between the years 1816 and 1861. He represents one of the old families of central Illinois and is a prominent and inllucnlial citizen, having the warm rcganl of many friends in Blue Mound and this section of the state.

STEPHEN H. SWAIN, D. V. S. Careful preparation through private study and a deep interest in his chosen profession has made Dr. Stephen H. Swain one of the leading veterinary surgeons of the state of Illinois. He was born in Ma(5ison county, Illinois, July 11, 1841, and is a son of Asa and M. Elizabeth (Truit) Swain, the former a native of North Carolina and the latter of Tennessee. In an earl)^ day the father manifested a fondness for horses and showed a special skill in treatment of those that became diseased. He was an excellent judge of horses and made a specialty of breeding fine stock. Both he and his wife have now passed away and of their six children four are yet living.

The ])ublic schools of his native county afforded the Doctor his educational privileges. He spent nuich of his youth upon the home farm and in 1866 he began farming on his own account. He seemed to have a natural predilection for the work of the veterinary profession and in 1875 we find him located in Maroa, Illinois, where he was following that calling. While upon the farm he began the study of veterinary surgery and while pursuing his investigations along that line he was also engaged in the breeding of good horses, making a specialty of fine trotting stock. In February, 1884, he removed to Decatur, where he opened an office and his time has been devoted almost exclusively since to the practice of his profession, in which he has been very success- . ful. He is not a graduate of any veterinary school, but has an ability scarcely equaled in the state. His patronage is now very ex- tensive an.l reaches as far as one hundred and fifty miles from Decatur. He makes a speciahy of spaying and the castration of ridglings and has been a very successful operator. He has read broadly and studied widely upon the subject of veterinary surgerj- and iiis knowledge is now comprehensive and e.xact so that he is to-day recognized as one of the leading veterinary surgeons of central Illinois. He w-as instrumental in founding what is known as the Illinois \'eterinary Medical and Surgical Association and he drafted its constitution and by-laws.

The Doctor has been twice married. In 1862 he wedded Miss Mar}- E. Emerson, who died about 1867. They had two children, one of whom is now living: Mary E., who is the widow of ^^'illiam H. Miller of .Maroa.

In 1868 Dr. Swain was again married, his second vinion being with Xancy L. Anderson, of Carlinville, Illinois, who died .August 31, 1897. By this union there were born a son and daughter, William A. Swain, who married Imogene Peadler, studied under his father and is now a successful practicing veterinar}^ surgeon in !Mount Pulask., Illinois. He also holds the position of secretary of the Illinois \'eterinary Medical and Surgical Association. Louisa Swain, the daughter, is yet at home and with Mrs. Mary E. Miller is keeping house for her father. The Doctor owns a fine residence at Xo. 226 West Decatur street and in connection has forty acres of farming land in Decatur township, upon which he keeps good horses. He likewise has other city property and his office is located at 127 South Franklin street. All tliat he possesses has been acquired through his own efforts and his property holdings, are a monument to his life of thrift and industry. He has been ambitious to win success and has realized that there is no excellence w-ithout labor, so that he has worked hard and consecutively in order to win the success and prominence which he now enjoys as a worthy representative of his profession. In politics he is a Democrat but has never sought or desired office. He is a member of Coeur de Lion Lodge, Xo. 17, K. P., of Decatur ; Decatur Camp, M. W. A. ; the Royal Circle, and Knights and Ladies of Securitv.

.\ prominent representative of the business interests of ^Macon, Illinois, is W. H. \\'illoughby, a successful dealer in agricultural implements. He is a wide-awake, progressive business man and by fair and honorable dealing has built up a good trade whicii e.xtends for many miles throughout the surrounding country in every direction.

Mr. Willoughby is a native of Illinois, his birth having occurred in St. Clair county on the 15th of Xovember, 1852. His parents were \\'. E. and Mary (Moore) W'illoughby, the former of whom was born in Delaware, June 7, 1820, and died at Lebanon, Illinois, July 20, 1896. and the latter was born in St. Clair county. Illinois, June 14, 1825. and died at Lebanon, Xovember 24, 1890. The father was of Scotch-Irish descent and was a farmer by occupation. At a very early day he settled in St. Clair county, Illinois, becoming one of its pioneers. In his "family were four children, of whom W. H. is the oldest, the others being J. Amos, who is editor of the Belleville Advocate of Belleville. Illinois;' Mary Julia, wife of Robert Keith, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; and Ida May. who is the wife of Charles Starr and lives on the old home place at Lebanon, Illinois.

W. H. Willoughby completed his literary education at McKinley College in Lebanon, Illinois, wliere he was a student until eighteen years of age. and then turned his attention to farming. In 1883 he came to

.Macon county and settled in IMeasant View township, where he carried on agricultural pursuits until 1891. The following year he was engaged in the butchering business in Macon and the next year was agent for the Champion Machine Company at the same place. In 1900 he became associated with W. II. Carroll in the implement business, under the firm style of W. II. Carroll & Company. This connection has still continued and the lirm enjoy a large patronage which is constantly increasing. Besides his town property and business, Mr. Willoughby owns a quarter section of fine farming land in Pleasant View township, whicli is well cultivated and improved.

On the 20th of September, 1871, in St. Clair county, Mr. Willoughby led to the marriage altar Miss Emma Forquer, and to them have been born four children : May, who married Silas Morchead, of Macon county, and died at the age of twenty years ; Blanche, wife of W. H. Carroll, who is in business with our subject; Harry F.. at home ; and Edward, who died in infancy.

In his social relations Mr. Willoughby is a member of the South Macon Lodge, No. 467, A. F. & A. M., of Macon. He was made a Mason at Lebanon, Illinois, in 1880. He is a standard bearer in the ranks of the Republican party in his locality and is now serving as chairman of the central committee. He filled the office of constable for four years and has ever taken an active and commendable interest in public affairs, doing all in his power to promote the interests of his town and county along moral, social and material lines.

demanded, a nicety of judgment but little understood by the laity. Dr. May, of Mount Zion, is well fitted for the profession which he has chosen as a life work and his skill and ability have w<in him a large and lucrative practice.

The Doctor was born in Oakland, Illinois, June 3, 1859, and on the paternal side is of German descent. His father. Rev. D. E. May, was born in 1829 in Port Republic, \'irginia, where he was reared and educated, and in early life he studied for the ministry, becoming a clergyman of the Methodist Episcopal church. At the age of twentyfive years he came to Illinois and located in Coles county. Throughout his active life he continued the work of the ministry, but is now living a retired life in Mount Zion, enjoying a well earned rest. In early manhood he married Miss Sarah Ann Merica, whose birth occurred in Page county, \'irginia, in 1834, and to them were born four children, of whom the Doctor is the eldest, the others being Edward M. ; Clara, wife of J. B. Henry; and Wilbur F., who died at the age of thirty-five years.

During his boyhood Dr. May attended the public schools of his locality and was graduated at the high school and also at the Springfield Business College in 1876. He commenced the study of medicine under the direction of Dr. J. L. Connelly, of Harristown, Illinois, and later was with Dr. Buck, of Moweaqua. He next attended lectures at the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Keokuk, Iowa, and was graduated with the class of 1880. As soon as he obtained his degree, the Doctor located at Dalton City, where he was engaged in practice for seven years, and from there came to Mount Zion, where his skill and ability soon won for him a liberal patronage which is constantly increasing. He has been remarkably successful in the treatment of all cases that have been placed in his care and he enjoys the largest country practice of any physician in Macon county. He is making a specialty of electro-therapeutics and possesses all the latest electric and N-ray apparatus and a])plianccs. lie also has a very fine library, some volumes of which were published in 1812. He has become interested in real estate and has made several valuable investments in rice plantations in Louisiana.

On the 5th of June, 1884, was celebrated the marriage of Dr. May and Miss Jennie Lawrence, of Mattoon, Illinois, and to them have been born four children : George Sheffie. who was born in Dalton City, June 20, 1885, and died in Mount Zion at the age of three years and eleven months ; C. Jewel, born February 10, 1889; Myrtle Louise, born February 20, 1891 ; and Freddie Reeves, born February 14, 1894.

The Doctor is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and belongs to Blount Zion Lodge, No. 300, L O. O. F., and Decatur Encampment, No. 37. He is also a member of the Modern Woodmen of America and the Court of Honor and is medical examiner for both of these organizations as well as for a great many old line insurance companies. In connection with his profession he holds membership in the American ^ledical Association, the IlHnois State Medical Society and the Decatur ^Medical Society. Genial and pleasant in manner, he is popular in both professional and social circles and wins friends wherever he goes.

SOLOMON WlLLL\MSON. Solomon Williamson, deceased, was for many years a contractor and builder of ^lacon county and was a man highly respected and esteemed by all who knew him. He was a native of Ohio, born in Ross county, December 23, 1830, and was a son of Henry and Elizabeth (Chafifin) Williamson. In the state of his nativitv he grew to manhood and learned the carpenter's trade in Decatur. In 1850 he came w-est and settled in Macon county, Illinois. After living in Decatur for two years he removed to the farm on section 34, Hickory Point township, now owned and occupied by his widow. Throughout life he followed contracting and building and in the employ of the Illinois Central Railroad Company he erected many buildings along their line. Although he resided on his farm of eighty acres for many years he left its operation to hired help while he worked at his trade.

Mr. \Mlliamson was very fond of hunting and in early days had ample opportunity to indulge in that sport as w-ild game was then plentiful in this region. He shot a deer about two hundred yards from his residence, and from where the barn stands he shot wild turkeys. One of his principal companions on his hunting trips was John Read and together they killed hundreds of prairie chickens and other game.

On the 26th of May, 1852, Mr. Williamson was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Johnson, and to them were born ten children, of whom seven are still living, namely: Edward, now a contractor of Decatur ; Laura, wife of William Slayback, of Macon county; Maggie, wife of Rev. O. B. Huston, of Charleston, Illinois ; George, a resident of Decatur; Eva, at home with her mother: ]\[ay, wife of George Metlen, of Dillon, Montana ; and Gussie, at home.

Mr. Williamson was a prominent and influential man in his community and a stanch supporter of the Republican party, taking an active part in campaign work. He served as a delegate to a number of conventions of his party and filled various township offices in a most commendable and satisfactorj- manner. He was a member of the First Methodist Episcopal church of Decatur and at his death, which occurred on the nth of February, 1892, the community

Ueing left an orphan in infancy, Mrs. Williamson was adojjteil by Robert and Lou Ann (Church) Johnson, who were pioneer settlers of Macon county, who emigrated from Bath county, Kentucky, and made the journey to this state in a wagon by way of Indiana. Settling in Decatur, Mr. Johnson bought property in that city and also entered eighty acres of land on section 34, Hickory Point township, now owned by C. E. Akers. For a time he worked at his trade, that of shoemaking, but afterward removed to his farm just north of where Mrs. Williamson now resides and turned his attention to agricultural pursuits. He died there in May, 1885, at the age of seventy-eight years, honored and respected by all who knew him. His wife passed away at the age of sixty-seven. They had no children of their own. Religiously they were members of the church of God and politically .Mr. Johnson was a Democrat. He filled the office of justice of the peace for a time.

Since her husband's death ?^lrs. Williamson has carried on the farm and has displayed good business ability in the management of her affairs. She has a nice peach orchard and raises a variety of other fruits. During her younger years she spun and wove most of the material lor her own dresses and became very proficient in such work. She would weave fine linen for articles of wearing apparel and use the remainder of the fla.x for toweling. She remembers to have seen the old fashioned grease lamps in use for lighting, and later the molded candles became quite common. Cooking was then done over a fireplace and everything was baked either in a covered skillet or Dutch oven. Mrs. Williamson once saw nine hundred Indians march through Decatur on their way to the Sangamon river and remembers distinctly of one time when it took four horses to pull a wagon with two sacks of Hour in it from Decatur to the farm, so bad were the roads at that time. On another occasion, while returning home on lu)rseback with a child in front of her, the creek had ri.sen so high on account of a recent rain that she was obliged to swim the horse across. In those early da} s she often rode to church on horseback, but the conditions of pioneer life have now passed away and the people of Macon county now have all the advantages and conveniences known to the civilized world. Mrs. Williamson has a nice home on the main road of the township line and the residence is surrounded by beautiful shade trees and many flowers. Here she has resided for about forty-eight years and the home has ever been noted for its hospitality and good cheer. She is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and is held in the highest regard bv all who know her.

William Ulaxk

William I Hank became well known as an artist and possessed superior talent in that direction. He gained fame not only in Decatur but in many other parts of the country because of his fine paintings and now in many of the homes of this section of the state his works are seen. He also put forth his efforts not only along ornamental lines, but also in sign painting, fresco and other decorating work of a more ])ractical nature.

Mr. Blank w'as horn in Wurtemberg, Germany, on the 1 ilh of .May, 1845, a son of Gottlieb and Barbara IJlanc, both of whom were natives of Germany, where they s])ent their entire lives. The subject of this review was the only one of the family who came to the new world. In his youth he attended the public schools in his native country for four years and it was noticed 1)\ ills teachers that he possessed strong artistic talent and tendencies for when a boy of only seven years he made many fine drawings. At the age of fourteen his parents, desiring to cultivate his artistic powers and temperament, sent him to an art school in Stuttgart, Germany. While in that city he followed many kinds of employment during the daytime in order that he might earn the money necessary to meet his tuition at the night school. He was a student in the night school of art for over three years and there his talent was properly directed along lines of great benefit in his work. He began painting pictures while still in the fatherland and also did fresco and other decorative work for several years. While thus engaged Mr. Blank was united in marriage to Miss Louise Koeppler, who was born in Germany on the 19th of July, 1852, and is a daughter of Gottlieb and Caroline (Segar) Koeppler, both of whom were natives of Germany. The father was a cabinet maker b}' trade and followed that pursuit in order to provide for the wants of his family. Both he and his wife died in that countr}'. Mr. and Mrs. Blank became the parents of seven children, five of whom are now living: Earlea, who resides in St. Joseph, Missouri ; Emil, who is a baker by trade and makes his home with his mother; Emma, the wife of W. Fred Ferguson, of Decatur ; Pauline, who resides in Jacksonville, Illinois ; and Schiller, who is also with his mother. The two children who have 'passed away were both named Paul.

After his marriage Mr. Blank continued to reside in his native country until twentyeight years of age and worked at his chosen trade and also in the more artistic lines of ornamental painting. He then sailed with his family for America, landing in New York, but he did not tarry in the eastern metropolis. He went, instead, direct to Lancaster, Ohio, where he established his family in a comfortable home and then began traveling over the United States executingfine paintings and art work of all kinds in different portions of the country. After traveling for a year and a half he came to Decatur, where his talent won recognition and he was employed to paint a number of fine pictures. Being pleased with the city he decided to locate here and sent for his family who joined him in ]Macon county. Many of his paintings here sold for as high as one thousand dollars each and beautiful specimens of his artistic skill adorn the walls of many fine homes in this portion of the state. At length, however, his health began to fail and once more he traveled, hoping that he might be benefited thereby, his family during this period remaining in Decatur. He traveled for a number of years, making frequent visits, however, to Decatur and his health becoming very badly impaired he decided to travel in the west and visit many places of interest in that section of the country, where he painted many fine pictures from nature. He finally located in Pueblo, Colorado, and because of his marked talent and ability he received a very liberal patronage, in fact, the demands made upon his services as a painter were more than he could meet. His health gradually grew worse there and he died in Pueblo three months after locating in that city. He passed away December 23, 1901, and Avas laid to rest on Christmas day in a grave on the side of a beautiful mountain near Pueblo - a mountain whose loveliness he had transferred to canvas only a few weeks before. Many of the largest business houses of the city were draped in mourning at his death, for all of the people of Pueblo had cither heard of him, seen his work or knew him personally. At the sale of his estate in Decatur many of his paintings brought thousands of dollars, one of the finest of his productions now being in possession of Mrs. Graham of this city. Airs. Blank has very few of his works, the greater number of them having been sold by him pr;or to hi.s death. The JNlilHkin University, which is now being erected in Decatur and is one of the best educational institutions in this part of the country, intended through the board of directors to have Mr. Blank take charge of the art department and conduct classes in drawing and painting. His work here made him well known to all the citizens whose great admiration for his talent and ability was strictly manifest.

Mr. Blank was a member of the Modern Woodmen of America and belonged to the church in Germany, but united with no religious organization after coming to this country. Like those who live on a high plane, the circle of his friends was select rather than large, but all entertained for him the highest respect and his death is deplored by all true lovers of art. Mrs. Blank still resides in Decatur and has a nice home at 467 South Webster avenue, where she is living with her two sons.

John M. Lowry

No history of the business development of Decatur and its expansion and its progress along commercial lines would be complete without the history of John M. Lowry, because he was one of the first business men of the city and also because his honorable methods, straightforward dealing and unflagging energy commended him to the confidence and good will of those with whom he came in contact. He took up his abode here about 1850 and remained a respected and valued resident of Macon county until his death.

Mr. Lowry was born in Clark county, Illinois, November 2, 1825, and was a son of William and Elizabeth Lowry, both of whom were natives oi Kentucky. The father was born in that state, July 5, 1779, and the mother's birth there occurred on the 1st of January, 1782. After their marriage they removed to New York, where they remained for several years and then came to Illinois, settling in Clark county, where Mr. Lowry engaged in farming for a few years. He next went to DeWitt county, Illinois, where he again secured a tract of land and carried on agricultural pursuits until his death. His wife died in Macon county and was buried in DeWitt county.

John M. Lowry was reared upon the home farm and obtained his education in the common schools, while during the periods of vacation he assisted his father in the work of field and meadow. After completing his school life he continued to devote his entire attention to work upon his father's farm for a few years and then learned the miller's trade, which he followed until his removal to Macon county in 1850. He settled in Decatur, which was then merely a crossroads town, the embryo city giving little promise of its future growth and development, but he had faith in its possibilities and believed it afforded a good business opening. He established a small grocery store on what is now East Main street and about the same time he was made assistant postmaster of Decatur, in which capacity he served for one year. He continued to engage in the grocery trade for a few years and then, selling his own place of business, he accepted a position as salesman in the Gorin store, where he remained for a few years. He was also for some time a salesman in the. employ of Colonel Pugh. He next settled upon a farm in Decatur township, where he carried on agricultural pursuits until after the outbreak of the Civil war, when his patriotic spirit being aroused by the attempt of the south to overtlirow the Union he joined the army and fought in defense of the stars and stripes.

Past Axd Presext Of Macox Col'Xty

After tlu' war Mr. Lowry removed to Marion county, Iowa, and subsequently settled in Clark county, that state, engaginj^ in farming there altogether for about two years. He next spent one year in Bates county, Missouri, where he carried on general farming for one year and at the end of that time returned to Macon county. He had been married in Decatur in 1852 to Miss Martha M. Pugh. a native of Fayette county, Illinois, born June 4, 1832, and a daughter of Colonel Pugh, who was one of the early settlers and most prominent and influential citizens of this part of the state. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Lowry were born four children : Elvira E., the wife of Perry B. Vance, of Decatur ; William Isaac, a printer who resides in Springfield, Illinois ; Mary A., who is at home with her mother ; and Silas T., who married Bertie Lusk and resides in Decatur, where he is now a member of Company No. i of the fire department.

When Mr. Lowry returned from Missouri to Illinois he once more took up his abode upon a farm in Decatur township and was there engaged in the tilling of the soil for a few years. Afterward he was elected constable, in which capacity he served for two years and finally he again established his home in Decatur, where he lived a retired life, having put aside the more arduous cares of a business career. He was, however, called to public office, being chosen justice of the peace, in which capacity he was serving at the time of his death. In the discharge of his official duties he was prompt, faithful and impartial and his "even handed justice won him golden opinions from all sorts of people." In politics he was a stanch Republican, having firm faith in the principles of the party and doing everything in his power to secure their adoption. He belonged to the Masonic fraternity in Decatur and was a very prominent and wellto-do citizen. He passed away April 8,

1887, to the deep regret of many friends and the great sorrow of his family, who had ever found him a loving and devoted husband and father. Mrs. Lowry still occupies her beautiful home at No. 726 North Main street and she also owns other property in Decatur. She has many friends in this city and she and all of her children are members of the First Methodist Episcopal church.

Titus T. Springer

The efiforts of Titus T. Springer in behalf of Decatur have been of such material benefit to the city as to render his life one of signal usefulness to his fellow men. While laboring for his own success he has promoted the general prosperity by pushing forward the wheels of progress and advancing commercial activity in the city where he has now made his home for eight years. No resident in all this state has more justly earned the proud American title of a selfmade man and there is no history in this volume which proves more clearly the force of industry and of a recognition of opportunity than does the life record of Mr. Springer.

A native of Ohio, his birth occurred in Jackson county, in 1853. He first opened his eyes to the light of day in a little log cabin which was situated upon what was then the frontier. His parents were Alanson and Margaret Springer, pioneer settlers of Jackson county. The father secured a tract of timber land amid the hills near the Scioto river and began the arduous and strenuous task of developing a new farm there. He worked untiringly and perseveringly but death claimed him when the subject of this review was about five years of age and the family was left in straitened circumstances. The mother, however, long survived her husband and passed away in 1899. For many years she put forth every

On account of the limited tinaneial resources of the family it was necessary that the children should begin to earn their own living at an early age and when hut a boy of eight years Mr. .'springer, of this review, started out for himself. He hired out to work for fifteen cents per day and his board, and his life was one of unremitting toil. He learned to cut wood, pee! tan bark, make rails and cross ties and he had to endure many privations and hardships in order to get the few necessities of life. He never wore a ready-made suit of clothes until after he had earned enough money to pay for it. The school privileges were limited to only about four months attendance during the winter season at a log schoolhouse, where the methods of instruction were almost as primitive as the little "temple of learning." In his youth Mr. Springer worked at every kind of employment that he could secure which would bring him an honest living. He has cut thousands of cords of wood and it was in this way that he gained his early start in life.

Desiring a companion and helpmate for life's journey Mr. Springer was united in marriage in 1870 to Miss Nannie St. Clair, a daughter of Thomas St. Clair of Ohio. The young couple soon afterward decided to seek a home in the west, believing that they might have better op])ortunities than in Ohio. Accordingly they started for Illinois, driving across the country to Lovington, where they arrived in March, 1876. Mr. Springer had about twenty-seven dollars in his pocket. This constituted his entire capital, but he possessed resolution, courage and dcterminati<3n and upon this he has built his success. He first rented a small farm on the prairie and during the stnjimcr months engaged in the tilling of the soil, while through the winter seasons he cut woo^l, going from four to six miles to the timber regions. He traded wood to his neighbors for pigs, calves, cows or an}^ kind of stock and in this way he gradually got a start. Jn two years he had accumulated enough money to make a small payment upon a forty-acre tract of land and with characteristic energy he began its improvement, having the added stimulus of knowing that the farm was his own. llis labors soon wrought a great transformation on the place and where was once wild prairie was seen rich fields of corn, giving promise of golden harvests.

For five years Mr. Springer there carried on agricultural pursuits and then traded his farm to Frank Blaine for his general store in Lake City, Mr. Blaine removing at that time to Decatur. It was predicted that Mr. Springer would lose money in this transaction, but time soon proved that the prediction was not correct. He brought to bear upon his mercantile enterprise the same energy, keen foresight and sound business judgment that he had ever manifested. In six months he had purchased a large and very complete stock of goods for a country store and was having large sales, his customers coming from miles around. At the end of two years he was able to ])urchase from Mr. Blaine the store building and it was not long after this that he bought of A. Wait, of Decatur, a farm in Moultrie county, for which he paid fifty dollars per acre. Again his friends regarded the transaction with dismal foreboding. So high a price had never been before paid for land in this locality, but Mr. .Springer said that in the course of years he would be able to command one hundred dollars per acre for the idace. This has not only proved true, but to-day the farm is worth easily one hundred and fifty dollars per acre. Whatever he has undertaken Mr. Springer has carried fiirward to successful comiiletion.

Seeking a still broader tield of labor Mr. Springer came to Decatur in 1895 and entered its business circles as a grocer. From the establishment of his store here his success has been uniform, rapid and gratifying, and to-day he conducts one of the largest retail grocery establishments in the city. In 1900 he removed to enlarged quarters at No. 108-114 Merchant street, where he has since been Located. One of the secrets of his success is that he has always been most progressive in his methods, being not a follower but a leader in mercantile circles. His patronage is now large, his business profitable and his success could not justly be envied by any, because it has been so worthily won.

Unto Mr. and J\lrs. Springer as the years have passed several children have been born, namely: Alanson; Lydia K., now the wife of C. E. Shiery; William T. ; Charles C, and Jessie K. The family has a pleasant and attractive home in Decatur and the hospitality of many of the best residences in the city is extended to them.

Since 1887 Mr. Springer has been a valued and exemplary member of the Masonic fraternity, has attained to the Knight Templar degree of the York Rite and is also a member of the Mystic Shrine. In politics Mr. Springer has always been an earnest Democrat and has been called upon to serve in a number of township offices. He was a justice of the peace for eight years and supervisor for six years. In the spring of 1903 he was the candidate on the Democratic ticket for the office of mayor and, although this is a strong Republican city, he ran far ahead of his ticket, receiving a large support from Republicans, who recognized and appreciate his worth and who felt that they would receive from him a business administration that would prove of material benefit to Decatur. No improvement or measure which he believes will contribute to the general good or to the advancement of the city along material, intellectual or moral lines has by him been neglected. His life record is that of a typical western man, belonging to that class whose efforts have resulted in the upbuilding of this wonderful section of the country, the growth and progress of which has been so great and rapid as to seem almost phenomenal. Mr. Springer has never had a dollar that he has not himself earned and that has not been honorably won. Although his early life was fraught with hardships, difficulties and trials he overcame these and to-day is one of the prosperous residents of Decatur, whose life record should be a source of inspiration and encouragement to others.

Henry B. Kuhns

HENRY B. KUHNS. Henry B. Kuhns, who is engaged in general merchandising as a member of the firm of Kuhns & Ruddock, of Argenta, was born in New Jersey, on the 4th of July, 1851, his parents being John and Barbara Kuhns, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania. The father was a farmer by occupation and therefore the subject of this review was reared to the work of the farm, early becoming familiar with the duties of field and meadow as he assisted in the plowing, planting and harvesting. He attended the public schools of his native state and remained upon the home farm until twentysix years of age, when he started out upon an independent business career. For five years he worked by the month as a farm hand, after which he decided to give his attention to mercantile rather than to agricultural pursuits and established a general store at Oreana, where he -was engaged in business for ten years. He found this pursuit congenial and his capable management and energy made it profitable. At length determining to make his home in the middle west, he removed to Argenta and on the 1st of September, 1893, he formed a partnership under the firm style of Kuhns & Rnddock, a connection that has since been maintaineil with mutual pleasure and profit. They have a large store and carry a complete line of dry goods. Their stock is worth ten thousand dollars and their business is large and profitable. They conduct their store along progressive, up-to-date lines, carry a good assortment and sell at reasonable prices - (|ualitics which always insure patronage.

In 1888 Mr. Kuhns was joined in wedlock to Miss Leah Garver, a daughter of C. H. Garver, a well known resident of Macon county. Two children have been born of this union: John C. and George H. ^Ir. Kuhns is a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian church, his wife of the United Brethren church, and both are held in the highest esteem by a large circle of friends, while the hospitality of the best homes of the locality is freely accorded them. Mr. Kuhns also belongs to the Knights of Pythias fraternity and the Modern Woodmen Camp. His political support is given the Prohibition party and the cause of temperance finds in him a warm friend. For two terms he served as a member of the village board and whether in office or as a private citizen he is always the same loyal adherent of measures for the general good, giving active help to interests for the welfare of the village and its people. He owns a good residence and several lots in Argenta and his property holdings also include a half interest in a farm of one hundred and twenty acres in Macon county. There is no royal rt^ad to wealth. It always comes as the result of the labor and sound judgment of some one, and in the case of Mr. Kuhns we find one whose prosperity is the direct outcome of his own diligence and energy. He is now a prosperous merchant

Wilson S. Gage

Wilson S. Gage, deceased, was for many j-ears identified with the commercial and agricultural interests of Macon county and was recognized as a useful and valued citizen of the community in which he made his home. He claimed New England as his birth place, being born in Roxbury, New Hampshire, Alay 21, 1825, a son of Daniel and Polly (Shaw) Gage. In the paternal line he was a lineal descendant of the British General Gage, of Revolutionary fame. His father was born in 1780, his mother in 1788, and they became the parents of ten children whose names and dates of birth were as follows: Marion, July 28, 1808; Simpson S., February 6, 1810; Catherine, May 5, 1813; Susan H., November 3, 1815; Alpha S., May 5, 1818; Ruth, October 28, 1820; Elizabeth B. and Mary A., twins, July 7, 1823; Wilson S., May 21, 1825; and Martha L., April 20, 1827. In early life the father engaged in farming in New Hampshire, and from that state removed to Ohio in 1833, locating in Washington county, where he bought land near Marietta and continued to engage in agricultural pursuits.

Our subject began his education in the schools of his native state and after the removal of the family to Ohio he continued to attend the country schools for some time, and later taught school for a few years. For four years he was employed as bookkeeper in the Buckhorn Iron Works, of Ohio, and was similarly employed in a like establishment for two years in a near-by town. He then went to Missouri, where he was bookkeeper for the Moselle Iron Works for a time, and subsequently was engaged in mercantile business on the Frisco line for a number of years or until the breaking out of the Civil war, when he returned to Ohio and purchased a part interest in the Stacy Hotel at Zanesville. He subsequently removed to Illinois with his family and was engaged in merchandising at Macon for several years in partnership with a Mr. Whitaker. On retiring from that business he bought a farm east of the village, which he improved and cultivated for two years, and then traded the place for the farm of two hundred acres in Pleasant View township where his widow now resides. He continued the operation of his land up to the time of his death, which occurred January 26, i8g6, his remains being interred in Macon cemetery. He was a" man of good business and executive ability and achieved success in his undertakings.

On the 28th of January, 1857, Mr. Gage was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Harriet Sterigere, who was born in Franklin county, Missouri, October 27, 1831, and was educated in the country schools of that state and at Norristown, Montgomery county, Pennsylvania. Her father, David Sterigere, was born in the Keystone state of German parentage and at an early day went to Missouri, where he married Emily Patton, a native of that state and of English and Irish descent. He became the owner of a number of slaves who were taken from him at the time of the Civil war. He raised considerable wheat and tobacco, all his farm work being done by the negroes. He served as circuit judge of the ninth judicial district of Missouri.

Mr. and Mrs. Gage became the parents of seven children, namely: D. Leslie, born April 2, 1858, is married and lives on the home farm ; Willard E., born December 7, i860, is married and is engaged in "the practice of medicine in Missouri ; Daniel S., born August 2, 1863, makes his home in Fulton, Callaway county, Missouri; Emily S., born February 24, 1868, is the wife of

Marion W. Gage, who lives near Marietta, Ohio; Marian H., born September 7, 1871, is the wife of Herbert Royston, of St. Augustine, Florida ; Charles E., born February 22, 1876, is deceased ; and Franklin, born November 16, 1866, died in infancy.

By his ballot -Mr. Gage supported the men and measures of the Democratic party, and in his social relations was connected with the Masonic fraternity. He held membership in the Presbyterian church, to which his estimable wife also belongs, and she is also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star. He was a man of the highest respectability, and those who were most intimately associated with him speak in unqualified terms of his sterling integrity, his honor in business and his fidelity to all the duties of public and private life. His death occasioned the deepest regret throughout the community and Macon county thereby lost one of its most valued citizens.

Walter Delahunty

\\'alter Delahunty, now deceased, was a well known business man of Decatur who took up his abode here in 1865 and became active in connection with business affairs, gaining for himself wide and favorable acquaintance in the city. He was born in the County of Kilkenny, Ireland, on the 5th of June, 1842, and was a son of William and Ella Delahunty, both of whom were natives of the same county and always lived there, spending their entire lives on the Emerald Isle.

The subject of this review spent his youth and pursued his early education in Ireland and remained a resident of his native land until 1865, when at the age of twenty-one }ears he crossed the Atlantic to America, believing that he might have better business opportunities in the new world, concerning whose advantages he had heard much. He was two weeks upon the water and then landed in New York city, whence he came direct to Decatur. His capital was very limited and it was necessary for him to provide for his support. He began work here as a shoemaker in the shoe store owned by William F. Bushcr. There his efficiency and fidelity enabled him to work his way steadily upward. That he was a most capable representative of the firm, true to their interests and active and energetic in business is indicated by the fact that he remained in the employ of the house for fourteen consecutive years.

It was during that time that Mr. Delahunty was united in marriage to Miss Bridget M. Finn, a native of County Limerick, Ireland. Her father, Thomas Finn, spent the greater part of his life in County Limerick, residing upon a farm, to the cultivation and improvement of which he devoted his energies. At length, however, accompanied by his wife and eight children, he crossed the briny deep to the new world and, establishing his home in Decatur, here lived retired up to the time of his death, which occurred when he had attained the age of eighty-six years. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Delahunty have been born eight children: Maj' Ellen, who was born December 14, 1874, and is the wife of Albert Cocoran, a farmer living near Lake City, Illinois; Catherine, who was born August 14, 1876; Walter Francis, born January 29, 1878; Theresa Honora, who was born June 15, 1879, and is the wife of Ed. Moriarity, of Decatur; James J., who was born December 10, 1886, and is yet with his mother; Myrtle H.. born March 25, 1891 ; one that died unnamed ; and Thomas D., who died on the 23d of July, 1883.

After leaving the firm of Busher & Company .\lr. Delahunty entered into partnershiji with his brother-in-law, P. W. Finn, in the establishment of a retail liquor business in Decatur. They afterward purchased other saloons and continued in that business until the death of our subject, who passed away on the 23d of August, 1902. In his political views Mr. Delahunty was independent, supporting the men whom he thought best qualified for office and taking an active part in politics. He and his family are all members of St. Patrick's church of Decatur and he contributed generously to its support. He was a man of social nature, always cordial and genial, and these ([ualities made him popular with a large number of friends. In his business he was very successful and was thus enabled to leave his family in comfortable circumstances. Mrs, Delahunty now owns and occupies a beautiful home at No. 912 East North street and is also the owner of a large and valuable farm in Moultrie county, Illinois, near Lake City. She and her family are ]irominent here and have many friends in Decatur.

VICTOR D1-:WLL\. \'ictor Dewein. who is now successfully engaged in the grain business at Warrensburg as the junior member of the firm of of Faith & Dewein, was born in Peoria, Illinois, im the 2ist of October, 1876, and being left an orphan at the age of four years he was adopted by his grandparents, X'alentine and Margaret (Shafer) Dewein, both natives of Germany, the former born in Alsace-Loraine, April i, 1817, and the later in Baden-Baden, April 28, 1823. The first of the family to come to America was Frederick Dewein, who was the grandfather of Valentine, just mentioned. He accom- ]ianicd Lafayette across the sea in 181 1 and located in Shippcnsburg, Pennsylvania, where he died in 1823. Prior to coming to America be had served as commissary in the eastern division of the French army. His .son, Valentine Dewein. Sr., served seven years in the Frencli army under Xapoleon I, and on coming to America in 1830 located in Baltimore, Maryland. He was a tailor by trade but after his removal to Cincinnati engaged in the manufacture of bagging. He died there September 9, 1844.

\'alentine Deweiii, Jr., our subject's grandfather, was quite young when he accompanied his parents on their emigration to America. He received no educational advantages outside of those afforded by the old log schoolhouses of those days. In 1845 he was married in Maysville, Kentucky, where his wife had located on coming to this country, and immediately afterward he went to Cincinnati, Ohio, where he began work as a shoemaker. In 1847 he removed to Peoria, Illinois, and embarked in the wholesale leather and shoe findings business on South Adams street. He met with excellent success in this venture and in 1877 was able to retire from business. He was secretary and treasurer of the Peoria & Rock Island Railroad, was a director of the Toledo, Peoria & Wabash Railroad, and also a director of the Merchants National Bank of Peoria ; in fact he was one of the most prominent and influential business men of that city. He served as alderman for some time and always took a very active interest in public affairs. After a useful and well spent life he died on the 19th of February, 1S91, and his wife, who survived him for a few years, passed away April 13, 1899.

Victor Dewein was for twelve years a student in the public schools of Peoria, and was graduated at the high school in 1895 and at Brown's Business College in 1896. Two years later he came to Warrensburg, where he had charge of the office of the C. J- Off canning establishment for three years. The following six months were spent in travel, during which time he covered seventeen thousand miles. Leaving home in January he went first to New Orleans, from there to San Antonio, Texas, and on into Mexico, visiting Aghuas Calientcs, Guadelaxara, the city of Mexico, Vera Cruz and other important cities of that country. Returning to the United States he stopped first at El Paso, Texas, and from there went to Los Angeles and San Diego, California, visiting all the points of interest throughout the surrounding country. On the 29th of March he started for the Yosemite \'alley with an escort of six Chinese cooks and an Irish horseman. This was before the regular touring season opened and there was six feet of snow on the ground. Mr. Dewein climbed to the top of the Yosemite Falls, two thousand six hundred and thirty-four feet above the level of the valley, and from there he commanded a view of what is considered one of the finest scenes in our country. Leaving the Yosemite he visited San Francisco and the Santa Clara valley - the famous fruit district of California. He next went to Portland, Oregon, Astoria, Tacoma and Seattle, Washington ; then by boat to Y'ictoria and Vancouver, British Columbia ; and on his return from the coast stopped at Salt Lake City, Cripple Creek, Colorado Springs, Denver and Kansas City. After reaching Peoria he started east and visited Buft'alo and X"ew York, where he saw the Columbia beat Sir Thomas Lipton's yacht, Shamrock II. He spent some time in Philadelphia and \\'ashington, D. C, and returned to Warrensburg in 1901. These were trips long to be remembered and from which he will derive a great deal of pleasure throughout life.

On resuming business in Warrensburg, Mr. Dewein formed a partnership with C. H. Faith in the gfrain trade under the firm name of Faith & Dewein, and they now own and operate elevators at this place and at Heman, Illinois. They handle many thousands bushels of grain annually and are re-

Theodore Hildebrandt

On the 5th of June, 1902, Mr. Dewein was united in marriage to Miss Grace Faith, a daughter of C. H. Faith, and they now have a little daughter, Margaret Henrietta, born May 4, 1903. Mrs. Dewein is a graduate of the Warrensburg high school and is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. She presides with gracious dignity over her elegant home, which is one of the nicest residences of the place, and she and her husband have a host of friends here. In religious faith Mr. Dewein is a Presbyterian and in politics is a Republican. He possesses that broad culture which only travel can bring and is very popular both in business and social circles.

THEODORE HILDEBRANDT. There is in Decatur no druggist who has .so long carried on business in this line as has the subject of this review and throughout the years of his connection with mercantile interests here he has maintained an enviable reputation and one which makes him worthy of mention as a leading citizen. He was born in Prussia on the i8th of December, 1833, and is a son of Henrj^ Xavier and Augusta (Wahrendorf) Hildebrandt, who were likewise natives of the Prussian kingdom. They reared a large family of children, of whom Theodore was the next to the youngest. He has one brother, F. L. Hildebrandt, who is a civil engineer of Chicago, and a sister, Mrs. A. Linde, also living in that city.

Tn a select school of his native country Mr. Hildebrandt of this review began his education and therein pursued his studies until he reached the age of twelve years, after which he spent five years in college. Coming to .-Xmerica he resided with his brother Hannon upon a farm in Missouri for one \i.-ar ami ihon his brother died suddenly. Our subject afterward went to St. Louis where he secured a clerkship in a drug store and since 1853 he has been connected with that line of business in Decatur. Upon his arrival here he accepted a position as salesman in the employ of Dr. W. A. Barnes, with whom he remained for two years, in fact, it was through the efforts of Dr. Barnes that he came to Decatur. In 1858 he opened a drug store on his own account, forming a partnership under the firm style of McCabe & Hildebrandt. At a later date, however, he sold his interest in the store to his partner that he might enter the army, for his patriotic spirit was aroused by the attack made upon the Union by the disloyalty in the south. He joined the Twenty-first Illinois Volunteers, with which he remained for a short time and upon his return ho purchased a store of his old partner and l:)cgan business on his own account, continuing at the old stand until 1878. In 1888 he opened his i>rcsent store at No. 7+4 East Eldorado street and has since conducted it with growing success. There is no druggist of Decatur whose residence here antedates the arrival of Mr. Hildebrandt, or who has been so continuously in the business. 'i"hc city was a village of only about five hundred population at the time of his arrival and with its growth and development our subject has kept apace, remodeling his store to keep in touch with the progressive spirit of the times. He now has a well appointed establishment and a large and carefully selected stock. He thoroughly understands the business in every department and the use of the various remedial agencies and as a compounder of medicine there is no more capable merchant in the city. His time and attention have been given to his store to the exclusion of all demands to win public office or gain public ;iotoriety.

to Miss Julia M. Mason, a daughter of Levi Alason, of New York. They had four children, of whom two sons are living : Charles T. and Albert Mason. The former married Miss Henrietta Michaels, of Iowa, by whom he has a daughter, Elizabeth. He now resides in Chicago, where he is engaged in the manufacture of engines. The younger son wedded Miss Bess Lorena Lloyd and is living in Indianapolis. This marriage was celebrated June 30, 1903.

Mr. Hildebrandt's life has been a success, his entire career is illustrative of the fact that certain actions are followed by certain results. As a merchant he occupies an enviable position in the public regard, as one whose actions have been neither reproached or criticised. He is a worthy adopted son of this land and no native son of America is more true or loyal to the stars and stripes than is Theodore Hildebrandt.

Daniel C. Spence

DANIEL C. SPENCE. Daniel C. Spence was a farmer of Friends Creek township, ?.lacon county, where he established his home in 1869. It continued to be his place of residence until he was called to his final rest and he became known as one of the progressive and enterprisii'g agriculturists of the community and as a man who was worthy of the highest regard because his life was ever upright and honorable. He was a natixe of North Carolina, his birth having occurred in that state on the 14th of October. 1841. The public schools afforded him liis etlucatioual pri\'ileges and with his father's family he came to Illinois, spending his youth upon the home farm in .'\dams county. There he was early trained to habits of industrj' and economy and his knowledge of practical farming methods gained upon the old homestead proved of immense benefit to him when he engaged in farming on his own account.

Like most young men he desired a companion and helpmate for the journey of life after attaining his majority and was united in marriage to Miss Sarah A. Carter, a native of Adams county, Illinois, born on Christmas day of 1839. The lady is a daughter of the Rev. Joseph W. and Lydia (I'"uller) Carter, both of whom were natives of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, whence they emigrated westward, settling in Adams county, Illinois, at a very early period in its development. The father, a ininister of the Methodist Episcopal church, devoted the greater part of his life to the work of spreading the gospel and influencing men to follow an upright life as taught by Christ. His principles and examples were both strong elements for good in the communities in wliich he lived. His memory is still enshrined in the hearts of many who knew him. Both he and his wife have now passed away, but are yet lovingly remembered by a large circles of friends.

Unto Mr. iind ]\Irs. Spence were born six children : John \\'., now deceased ; William Henry, a painter by trade, who is now engaged in contracting in that line in Decatur; George L., who married Nellie Revis and is an engineer on the Wabash Railroad, making his home in Decattir ; Mary B., the wife of J. O. Johnson, an insurance man of this city; James O., who married Lula Deck and resides in Decatur; and Arthur C, who is living with his mother.

After his marriage Mr. Spence purchased a farm in Friends Creek township, Macon comity, Illinois, where he located in 1869, anil there engaged in general agricultural pursuits. \\'ith characteristic energy he began its development and improvement and continued its cultivation imtil his death. He was a very industrious man who never was afraid of hard work, but applied himself with diligence and energy to the task which awaited him and gained thereby a comfortable competence.

He died Scpiember 24, 1874, in the faith of the Methodist Episcopal church, of which he was a loyal member. In politics he was a stanch Republican and was always true to his duties of citizenshi]). In fact he faithfully met every tluty which devolved upon him whether in public or in private life and he so lived as to win the respect and confidence of his fellow men and to leave to iiis family the priceless heritage of an untarnished name. After his death -Mrs. Spence sold the home farm and removed to Decatur, purchasing her present residence at Xo. 1204 Xorth Main street, where she has since resided. Her many womanly qualities and kindly spirit have endeared her to those with whom she has come in contact and she is favorably known among a large circle of friends in this city.

Rl-:\'. JAMES H0131JS. Rev. James Hobbs has devoted the greater part of his life to the work of the ministry as a preacher of the Methodist Episcopal church and his influence has been of no restricted order. He has labored consecutively along lines which have ajjpealed to general intelligence and his work lias been an imjiorlant factor in the moral flevclopment of Decatur. He was born in Madison, Indiana, on the 26th of May, 1837, his father being Thomas Hobbs, who in early life devoted his attention to agricultural pursuits and afterward engaged in merchandising. He married .Miss Eleanor Snodgrass, who was born in Cabell county, West Virginia, in 1808, being one year her husband's senior, for his birth occurred in Henry county, Kentucky, in 1809. During the pioneer epoch of the Blue Grass state the Hobbs family was founded there by the great-grandfather of subject. The maternal grandfather was Samuel Snodgrass, who belonged to a family numbering three sons. It was in the year 1840 that Thomas Hobbs removed with his family from Indiana to Illinois, settling in Randolph county, where he remained continuously for more than a tjuarter of a century or until 1867. when he removed to lUmker Hill, Illinois. He afterward became a resident of Litchfield, this state, where his remaining days were passed. His wife departed this life in. 1885 and he was called to his final home in Decatur, 1896, having reached an advanced age. The family of this worthy couple numbered eight children, three sons and five daughters, all but two of whom reached mature years, while two of the number are now living in Litchfield, Illinois, and another sister makes her home near Springfield, Missouri.

Rev. James Hobbs spent his boyhood days in Randolph county, Illinois, and there pursued his education in the public schools. At the age of seventeen he began teaching, being first employed in the district schools and after in village schools. To the work of promoting the intellectual development of the state he gave his energies for thireen years, during which time he spent near- Iv three years as a student in McKendree College in St. Clair county, Illinois. While engaged in teaching he was also licensed to preach in Salem, Illinois, by Hiram Sears, prcsiiling elder, his first charge being at Galatia, Saline county, Illinois, where he remained for a year. In 1888 he came to Decatur, where he has smce done evangeli.stic and missionary work. He admits to his cliurch all who wish to hear the message of the gospel, although advocating in strongest terms the doctrine of the Methodist church. He has induced many to follow in the straight and narrow path which leads to life everlasting. He is an earnest speaker, a deep thinker and a logical reasoner, and his utterances have left a lasting impression upon many of his hearers.

was joined in the holy bonds of wedlock to Miss Mary A. Webb, of Randolph county, Illinois. She was born in St. Louis, -Missouri, in 1S44, and died leaving four children: Lille, now the wife of Charles S. Todd, of Macon county, living near Decatur ; and three who are now deceased.

On the Sth of May, 1867, Rev. Hobbs was again married, his second union being with Miss Lizzie Morrow, of Randolph county, Illinois, a daughter of Arthur Morrow, a prominent old citizen of that locality. The second wife died February 12, 1885. The two children born of this union are both deceased. Mr. Hobbs was later united in marriage to Miss Lizzie C. Rentchler, of Rentchler Station, Illinois, a little town located near Belleville. She is the daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth (Baker) Rentchler, who were natives of Pennsylvania and among the early settlers of St. Clair county, Illinois, locating there in 1836. Her father was born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, in 1800, and her mother's birth occurred in the same place in 1804. Mrs. Hobbs was born in St. Clair county, Illinois, June I, 1844. By this union was born one child, Taylor K., whose birth occurred July 25, 1889.

Air. Hobbs has a neat home on Dunham street, where he has two acres of land, constituting a valuable property. Almost his entire life has been devoted to the holy calling which yet claims his attention and he is a man of force in the church, his labors proving of marked value in bringing to man a knowledge of the gospel and in turning his fellow citizens from paths of sin into walks of life leadinsr to rio;hteousness.

Henry I'.Erkler

HENRY I'.ERKLER. No better illustration of the characteristic energy and enterprise of the typical German-American citizen can be found than that afforded by the career of this well known farmer of Friends Creek township. Starting out in life for himself without capital he has made his way to success through wiselj' directed effort and can now look back with satisfaction upon past struggles.

Mr. Berkler was born in Germany in 1837 and there spent the first fifteen years of his life in school most of the time. He then came to the new world with his parents, and was thirty-five days upon the water as the voyage was made in a sailing vessel. The family settled in Peoria, Illinois, where the father died many years ago. The mother died in 1899 near Maroa, Illinois.

Our subject began earning his own livelihood by working on a farm by the month and later he was in his father's employ for a time. Pie next rented a farm, which he operated for six years, and at the end of that time he purchased eighty acres of land on section 13, Friends Creek township, Macon county, where he now resides. He subsequently purchased another eighty-acre tract, making one hundred and sixty acres where he now resides, and he also has six hundred acres in Iowa. For his home place he paid eighteen dollars per acre and he has laid out a large amount of money on improvements since it came into his possession, erecting all of the buildings thereon. His attention is mostly devoted to the raising of grain but he is interested in stock to some extent, and he has met with good success in his farming operations.

In 1859 Mr. Berkler married Miss Paulina Ehman, by whom he had three children: Lizzie, and Kate. For his second wife he wedded Matilda Shultz and to them were born twelve children, ten of whom are still at home with their parents, namely: Lottie, Amelia, Gertrude, John, Frank, ^'ettie, Samuel, Fred, Lelia and Esther. Ada is now the wife of Theodore Denise and lives in Macon countv, and Edward is mar- ried and resides in Iowa. Tlie daughter Amelia taught school in that state for a time but is now at home. Mrs. Berkler is a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and a daughter of John Shultz, a farmer by occuliation, who brought his family to Macon county, Illinois, in 1859 and located in Friends Creek township, where Mrs. Berkler attended school. Our subject and his wife are consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal church and have the respect and confidence of all who know them. For three years he lias served as school director and he votes with the Democratic party.

Robert Woods

ROBERT WOODS. Robert Woods, whose home is on section 10, South Wheatland township, is the oldest resident of Macon county who was born in Illinois, his birth having occurred in St. Clair county, this state, on the 15111 of J Mary, 1817, before her admission to the Uii an. He is a worthy representative of that hardy class of pioneers who came here in tirr'torial days and were not only forced to end^ -e all of the hardships and priva- incident to pioneer life, hut were often n great danger from attacks l)y the Inu tns.

Hir subject j paternal grandfather was Join Walker and the changing of his name to Woods was occasioned by the following curious .'.cident. At the time of the breaking out o! the Revoi'itionary war he was living nea Halifax, Neva Scotia, and was pressed into the British army, but two days before the baUle of Long Island he deserted to join the American forces. While on his way he was stopped by a man who claimed to have authority to arrest him and when the man began to fumble in his pockets for his papers the grai.dfather of our subject knocked him down and took his papers, n-hich were made out in tlie name of lohn

Woods. As a matter oi jjrecaution "Mr. W alker took that name as his own lest he should be caj^tured and put to death. He served throughout the struggle for independence under the name of John Woods and when success at length crowned the efforts of the colonists he sent for his family to join him in the United States, locating in Jefferson county, Ohio. At the age of ten years his son John, the father of our subject, dropped the name of Walker and also took that of Woods.

John Woods, Jr., grew to nianhuod in Jefferson county, Ohio. The passing of a flatboat changed the whole current of his life, for upon that boat was the lady who became his wife. He hoarded the boat, went with her down the ( )hio river and settled in the same neighborhood in St. Clair county, Illinois, where they were married about the beginning of tlie nineteenth century. They experienced much trouble with the Indians, being among the pioneers of the state. The father died in February, 1855. when over eighty years of age, and his wife, whose maiden name was Delilah Hill, passed away August 19, 1826, when our subject was a lad of nine years. They were the parents of nine children, namely: William, who served in the Black Hawk war at Rock Island ; Mary, who died in Wisconsin ; John, who was also in the Black Hawk war and died in St. Clair county, Illinois, May 19, 1875; Peter, deceased; Robert, of this sketch ; George, who was drowned in the Kaskaskia river in 1839; Thomas, who died in Central City in 1866; Nancy, who died in Missouri; and one who died in early childhood. For his second wife the father married Mrs. Susan McGuire, a sister of his first wife, and she had two children, James Marion, now deceased; and Mrs. Delilah ilolcomb, a resident of St. Clair county.

Past Axd I'Resext Of Macox Couxty

the Black Hawk war the Indians massacred the entire Hall family, near Chillock's Grove, except two daughters who were captured and a boy who escaped and informed the soldiers of what had occurred. The daughters were afterward restored by treaty. A Mr. Alacumsum, who had been nearly killed by the Indians, was being carried by John Woods and three other men to a place of safety, but desiring a drink of water they stopped at a spring and as one of the party, Mr. McDaniels, was in the act of dipping up the water, he was killed by a volley from the red men who lay in ambush. Mr. Macumsum was left and the others fled. All escaped with exception of Mr. Woods, who was detained by trying to catch his horse that had been in charge of another man who on hearing the firing dropped the bridle and ran. Luckily, however, the horse became entangled in the bridle and this enabled Mr. Woods to catch him more easily. Although the last ofif the ground he managed to get beyond the bullets of the Indians and escape. At that time Benjamin Scott, a brother of Judge John M. Scott, who was afterward judge of the supreme court of the state, was helping carry Mr. Macumsum. He was killed and decapitated, his head being carried off by the red men as a trophy. Mr. Woods had the gratification of knowing that one Indian scalp had been taken by him. He brought it home and it was kept in the family for a long time as a relic.

Robert Woods spent his boyhood in the log cabin home but on the death of his mother the family became scattered and the children were never all together again. For six years he lived with a Mr. Ward. His early advantages were very meager and at the age of seventeen he began working as a farm hand, receiving seven dollars per month for his services. For ten years he was employed in that capacity, working early and late at the most arduous duties.

At length he was able to purchase eighty acres of school land at one dollar and a quarter per acre and subsequently bought eighty acres more. In 1866 he sold his farm of two hundred and eighty acres in St. Clair county and came to ]^Iacon county, purchasing one hundred and forty acres of his present farm, to which he has since added until he now has two hundred and forty acres in South A\'heatland township. Besides his home place he has other property, in all over three hundred acres in this county. Laying aside active labor he has lived a retired life for several years, enjoying a comfortable competence which was acquired by former toil. His farm interests are now being carried on by William R. McGuire, who was born in Moultrie county, Illinois, September 25, 1877, a son of James and Elizabeth (Scott) IMcGuire, and was married January 24, 1900, to Aliss Grace Woods, a granddaughter of our subject and a daughter of John and Margaret (Gooker) Woods. She was born January 9, 1881. They are now living on the old home place and have one child, Ada Marie, born August 5, 1902. It was on the i6th of March, 1843, i" St. Clair county, that Mr. Woods led to the marriage altar Miss Elizabeth H. Short, a daughter of William B. and Nancy (HilO Short. Her father was born in JNIonroe county, Illinois, in 1804. Mr. and Mrs. Woods became the parents of six children, as follo\vs : George S., who served in the Union army under General Sherman and died in ilacon county, Illinois, in 1890, leaving one son, Robert S. ; Joseph, who died June 18, 1891, leaving three children; John, who first married Caroline Cox and second Margaret Gooker and died August 4, 1892; William, who died in St. Clair county at the age of twelve years ; Benjamin, also deceased ; and Alfred W., who wedded Haidee Finney, of Lincoln, Nebraska. He was educated in Musselman's Business College and was a teacher of architecture and mechan- ical drawing in the W'esleyan Universit_v. He is now engaged in practice of his profession in Lincoln, Xebraska. The mother of this family died on the 4th of December, 1864.

Mr. Woods was again married January 7, 1868, to Ellen Elizabeth Pope, who was born in Wake county, Xorth Carolina, December 30, 1817, and was ten years of age when she came to Illinois with her parents, Dempsc}' and Sarah (Edwards) Pope. She first married John Elder, and to them were born four children who reached years of maturit\-, namely : Sarah Jane ; Lavinia ; Mary E., wife of William Wilson, of Arkansas ; and William F., who was a member of the One Hundred and Thirteenth Illinois Infantry in the Civil war and was wounded in the battle of Chickamauga, causing the amputation of his arm. Mrs. Woods had two brothers who belonged to the One Hundred and Sixteenth Illinois Infantry and both died from disease contracted in the service. She had seen President Lincoln in the wheat field, harvesting his grain with a reap hook on what is now known as the Leiby farm near Walnut Grove. She died on the 17th of August, 1900, at the age of eighty-two years.

Mr. Woods cast his first presidential vote for William Henry Harrison, supported Millard Fillmore in 1856 and Lincoln in i860, and has since affiliated with the Republican party. During the long years of his residence in this state wonderful changes have taken place here. The dusky savages who still roamed through the forests during his boyhood days have long since disappeared, seeking homes in the reservations beyond the Mississippi, and the wild game, once so numerous, has all been destroyed. Prairie and forest have been transformed into fine farms, villages and cities have sprung up. and all of the interests and evidences of an advanced civilization have been introduced, making this one of the best states of the Union. In the work of progress and advancement Mr. Woods has al- ^vays borne his part and he deserves a prominent place on the roll of honored pioneers of Illinois.

P. D. Spooner

P. D. Spooncr was born May 31, 1864, a son of Cyrus M. and Maria (Devol) Spooncr, who were natives of Ohio. His father was descended from an English ancestor who worked his passage to America in the seventeenth century, thus establishing his home in the new world in an early period in its colonization. The paternal grandfather, Cyrus Spooner, was likewise a native of Ohio and many of the representatives of the family have been in the professions and some have won distinction therein. The subject of this review is a distant relative of Senator Spooner, of Wisconsin. Cyrus M. Spooner, the father of our subject, was born in Ohio, March 17, 1832, and became a merchant of that state. He followed his chosen calling for many years and in 1880 removed to Illinois, settling in Blue Mound, where he opened a meat market, which he conducted for three or four years. Since that time he has been doing general repair and cabinet work. At the time of the Civil war he responded to his country's call for aid, enlisting in Company F. Second Regiment of West Virginia Volunteer Cavalry. He served in the .Shenandoah valley under Generals Sheridan and Custer and was in the battles of Winchester, Sinking Creek, Dublin Depot, Lynchburg-. Waynesburg and Fisher Flill.

P. D. .Spooner acquired his education in the common schools of Lowell, Ohio, and of Blue Mound, Illinois. Fie left school in 1882 and began in the newspaper business in Blue Mound, while later he went to Palmyra, where for three years he was connected with a drug store. He then returned to this place and purchased the Independent, which he edited and published for three years, selling out on the expiration of that period to the firm of Gepford & McElroy. On leaving the journalistic field Mr. Spooner went to Palmyra, but after a year spent in conducting a meat market there he returned to Blue Mound and entered the postoffice in September, 1897. He has since ]jecn connected with its administration and is a worthy public official.

On the 14th of July, 1887, occurred the marriage of Air. Spooner and Miss Hattie W. Wood, a daughter of George and Sarah (Hodge) Wood, of ]Macon county. She was educated in the schools of Blue Mound and is a most estimable lad3^ Six children were born of this union : Helen D., born September 10, 1888; Harold W., July 6, 1890; John R., May 12, 1892; Robert Whipple, February 11, 1894; Eleanor Mabel, August 30, 1900; and a baby girl, unnamed, July 26, 1903.

In his political affiliations Mr. Spooner is a Republican and fraternally he is connected with the Fraternal Army of America. His_ wife also belongs to that organization, to the Eastern Star and the Rebecca Lodge, her father having been a charter member of the Odd F"ellows Society here. Both Mr. and Mrs. Spooner are well known in Blue Mound and enjoy the friendship of many people because of their upright lives, social dispositions and genial qualities.

David Kretzer

DAVID KRETZER. At an early period in the development of Macon county David Kretzer, now deceased, became one of the residents of Decatur and was actively identified with its building interests, becgming a leading and important factor in the early improvement and development of the city. Because of his excellent workmansliip and his straightforward honorable dealings he secured a liberal patronage and was widely known for his sterling traits of character and his business integrity.

He was a native of Maryland, his birth having occurred in that state on the 21st of October, 1818. His parents were both natives of Germany and on leaving the fatherland they crossed the Atlantic to America, settling in Maryland in early life. There they lived for several years, during which time their son David was born. Afterward they took up their abode upon a farm near Dayton, Ohio, where they spent their remaining days, both dying on the old homestead there. Mr. Kretzer devoted his energies to general agricultural pursuits and thus provided a good living for his family.

In taking up the personal history of David Kretzer we present to our readers the life record of one well worthy of representation among the leading men who have been connected with business affairs in Decatur. He acquired his education in the common schools of Maryland and after his parents' removal to Ohio he, too, went to that state and purcliased a farm near Dayton, carrying on the work of tilling the soil for a few vears. Subsequently he disposed of his property there and removed to Miami county, Ohio, where lie again engaged in farming for a few years. He next went to Darke county, Ohio, and once more settled upon a farm on which his labors wrought many changes in the way of improvements.

Mr. Kretzer was first married in Ohio to Miss Elizabeth Ullery, who died in Covington, that state, leaving one son, Joseph, who is now a resident of Arcolo, Illinois, and is engaged in farming. For his second wife Air. Kretzer chose Miss Jemima Housse, tlie wedding being celebrated on the 4th of March, 1856. She was born in Darke county, Ohio, January 28, 1832, a daughter of Isaac and Tacey (Briggs)

Housse, who were natives of l);irkc county, where they always lived, the father devoting his energies to farming and also carrying on the milling business, for he owned and operated a mill near his home. IJoih he and his wife passed away in Darke county. Unto the second marriage of Mr. Kretzer seven children were born, namely: Edward C, who is now a carpenter living in St. Clair comity, Illinois; Ellen, the widow of Henry JMondabaugh, of Dayton, Ohio ; Ruth Belle, who is the wife of Ewing Hunt, and is living in Leroy, Illinois; Benjamin Eranklin, a land speculator located in Fort Worth, Texas; Ceora, of Danville, Illinois; David, C, who is a prominent practicing physician of Fort Madison, Iowa ; and Lucy, who resides at home with her mother.

Mr. Kretzer continued to make his home in Darke county, Ohio, until 1855, ^""^ then came to Illinois, establishing his home in Decatur. Here he began work at the carpenter's trade and as a contractor and builder erected many of the first buildings in this city, his excellent workmanship causing his services to be sought by the newcomers who located in Decatur and built for themselves homes and business houses here. For several years Mr. Kretzer continued to work at his trade and was accorded a liberal patronage by the public. When his financial resources had increased and made him the possessor of considerable capital he made investment in a farm comprising two hundred and twenty-five acres of land in Harristown township, Macon county, and removing to that place, he devoted his time anil energies to its cultivation and improvement. His labors soon wrought a marked transformation in its appearance. He placed the fields under a high state of cultivation and each autumn reaped abundant harvests. He also erected splendid buildings and secured the latest improved machinery to facilitate the farm work. Everything about his place was neat and

In matters of citizenship he was progressi\e, taking an acti\e interest in everything pertaining to the welfare of his community. In his political views he was a Democrat, but was never an aspirant for office. Both he and his wife were members of the Christian church in Harristown township and took a very deep interest in church work, doing all in their power for the extension of its inlluence and contributing liberally to its sujjport. He passed away November 30, 1884, and in a review of his completed life record one finds many elements that are worthy of commendation and of emulation. He started out in life empty handed, but ]K5Ssessc(l resolution and courage and would brook no obstacles that could be overcome l)y persistent and honorable labor. Gradually he thus worked his way upward until he became one of the substantial farmers of the community and he left to his family a good name as well as a comfortable competence. After her husband's death Mrs. Kretzer removed to Decatur and now resides at No. 1236 North Main street, where she has recently erected a fine large residence. She also owns the old homestead of two hundred and twenty-five acres in Harristown township and the income therefrom supplies her with all of the comforts and manv of the luxuries of life.

Gustave E. Duker

GUSTAVE E. DUKER. The name at once suggests a power in the world of trade in Decatur and only two years have passed since Gnstave F. Duker established his home in this city. He has become recognized as one of its most progressive and enterprising merchants, conducting his business afTairs along lines that prove not only a benefit to himself but are instrumental in the commercial expansion of the city. Fie is now the proprietor of the store conducted under the name of the Empire Shoe Company and has in two years achieved a success which is indicative of the possession of splendid business capacity and executive force.

Mr. Duker was born on the 5th of January, 1864, in the city of Ouincy, Illinois, his parents being Theodore and Elizabeth Duker. His father was born in the province of Hanover, Germany, not far from the border of France, and in his boyhood days was brought to America by his parents, the family home being established at Quincy, Illinois. Since that time Theodore Duker has resided in that city and has become one of its wealthiest and most prominent business men. His wife was a native of Austria and of noble birth. She, too, was brought to the new world by her parents in her childhood days and became a resident of Quincy, where in due time she gave her hand in marriage to Mr. Duker and there resided until she was called to her final rest. Twelve children were born unto this worthy couple, seven sons and five daughters, and with one exception all are yet living.

Gustave F. Duker began his education in St. Boniface parochial school in Ouincy and later attended St. Francis College in the same city. When his literary education was completed he pursued a commercial course in the Gem City Business College in that city, and thus entered upon his business career well prepared to meet its responsible and arduous duties. He began work for C. Wand, of Quincy, in whose employ he remained for fourteen years, and this fact is certainly indicative of his fidelity, ability and trustworthiness. At the end of that time he accepted a position with E. I. Martin Dry Goods Company of Quincy, remaining with that firm for four years, when he resigned in order to enter upon a similar business relation with the firm of

J. Kcspohl & Company of Quincy. When three years with that house had elapsed he removed to Ilurdland, Missouri, where he began business on his own account, conducting a general store for a little more than three years. Returning to Ouincy he was in business in his native city for a short period and then came to Decatur in May,. 1901, establishing his store here at No. 118 East Prairie street. A year later he removed to No. 114 North Water street, where he is still conducting business under the name of the Empire Shoe Company. He has one of the largest and best equipped shoe stores in the county, carrying a well selected stock of goods and having an extensive and growing patronage. He is very energetic and by strict adherence to the ethics of commercial life and by straightforward dealing he has gained a patronage which is indeed gratifying.

On the 1st of February, 1888, Mr. Duker was united in marriage to Miss Susie Alexander of Quincy and unto them two children have been born : Theodore and Kenneth. Mrs. Duker is a descendant of Alexander the Great, and her parents, who are now living in Quincy, are among the wealthy and distinguished residents of that city. Her grandfather was a quartermaster in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary war. Socially Mr. Duker is connected with Decatur Council, No. 577, Knights of Columbus, and he is likewise a member of St. Patrick's Catholic church of Decatur. Steadily pursuing his way undeterred by the obstacles and difficulties in his path he has achieved splendid success. Close application, careful study of business methods and plans to be followed, close attention to the details combined with an untiring energy, directed by a superior mind, these are the traits of character which have brought to him success and made him one of the foremost merchants of Decatur.