Decatur Township (part 16 of 46)

After leaving school he spent one year in the general mercantile business conducted hy his fatiier in the town of St. Clair, Pennsylvania, and in the spring of 1861 he accompanied his parents on their removal from the Keystone state to Illinois, the family home being established in Decatur, near which city the father purchased a tract of land. He then engaged largely in the growing of sheep and the production of wool and Mr. Thatcher of tiiis review assisted him in the business through the six years of its continuance, when owing to the father's death this industry was discontinued.

In the spring of 1867 Charles P. Thatcher turned his attention tt) the lumber business, establishing a yard in Decatur, at the intersection of the Wabash Railroad and Xorth Water street. There he conducted a growing trade for many years, continuing in that line until 1890. draduallv his patronage increased and his sales brought to him a splendid financial return. His business methods were honorable and in all trade transactions he was straightforward, never taking advantage of the necessities of his fellow-men, but gaining thereby a fair profit on his investment.

On the 18th of January, 1865, Mr. Thatcher was united in marriage to J. Neta Robinson, who resided with her parents at .Schuylkill Haven in Pennsylvania. Immediatel\' afterward he brought his bride to Decatur and as the years passed four children were added to the family, of win mi two died in infancy. The others are Irene R., now the wife of W. L. Shellabarger ; and Alice Neta, who is the wife of Robert U. Maffit, both residing in Decatur. Mrs. Thatcher died in this city March 9, 1895, and was laid to rest in Greenwood cemetery. On the Crth of ( )ctol)er, 1898, Mr. Thatcher was again married, his second union being with Mary M. Hall, with whom he is now living in a pleasant home at the corner of Water and North streets. Keen and clear-headed, always busy, always careful and conservative in financial matters, moving

Adam Dickson is a prominent and wellknown citizen of Deeatnr, where he is now living retired after many years' connection with agricultural interests. His residence in Macon county dates from 1859, at which time he took up his abode in Macon township. He came from the land of hills and heather, his birth ha\ ing occurred in Scotland, on the 19th of July, 1835. His parents were Archibald and Alice (Innes) Dickson, who were also natives of Scotland, where they s]K"nt their entire lives, the father providing for the family by following farming. Unto this couple were born eight children, five of whom ha\e passed away, while the three now living are residents of this country, namely : George, who is now residing in Clay Center, Nebraska ; Archibald, a retired farmer residing at No. 1012 West Decatur street : and Adam.

Mr. Dickson of tliis review was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools, but his privileges in that direction were very meager, for at the age of ten years he had to leave school in order to assist his father upon the home farm. He was thus employed until 1853, wdien, determining to try his fortune in .\merica he sailed for the new world, landing in New York cit}'. Me did not tarry long in the eastern metropolis, however, but went at once to Rock county, Wisconsin, where he was engaged in farming for three years. On the expiration of that period he took up his abode in Red Wing, Minnesota, where he followed the trades of plastering and brick-making for a season. lie then returned to Rock county, where he carried on agricultiu-al pursuits and also worked at odd jobs of plastering, being thus engaged until 1858, when he went to Phillips county, Arkansas. In that state he was employed in the timber regions through the winter and in 1859 he returned to the north, settling in Macon county, Illinois, where he secured employment as a farm hand. In this manner his time was passed until 1865, when with the capital he had acquired through his own labors he purchased a farm in Milam township, for which he paid nine dollars per acre. At once he began its further development and cultivation and at the end of that time he built the first schoolhouse in Milam township, erecting this in 1866. His wife's father was the second teacher of the first school in the township. After his marriage Mr. Dickson engaged in general farming in ^lilam township and as his financial resources increased he kept adding to his land from time to time until now he owns three hundred and twenty acres, constituting one of the best improved farms of the locality. The entire tract is situated on sections 2 and 11, Milam township, and it is improved with modern buildings and substantial equipments in harmony with the progressive spirit of the twentieth century.

On the 31st of December, 1868, occurred the marriage of Mr. Dickson and Miss Harriet J. Gleason, a native of Summit county, Ohio, born December 29, 1850. She is a daughter of Jonah B. and Rebecca (Little) Gleason, the former a native of Hartford, Connecticut, and the latter of Peru, ?klassachusetts. - The father was a carpenter, brickmason and farmer and on removing from Connecticut settled in Ohio, while later he took up his abode in Iowa, where he lived until 1865. During that time he was county surveyor for a number of years and also worked at the brick-mason's trade. He then established his home in Milam township. Macon county, where he was engaged in general farming in connection with carpentering. Of that locality he remained a resident up to the time of his death, which occurred February 29, 1884, and his wife passed away September 13, 1889. ^^ the family of Mr. and J\lrs. Dickson are nine children: Nina R., who resides at home; Allie, the wife of Frank Kennedy, a resident of Mount Zion township, this county; Luella, who died at the age of four years ; R., a resident of Portland, Oregon; Louis B., who married Grace Wilson and lives in Milam township, this county; George A., who resides on his father's' farm in Milam township with his brother Louis B. ; Bert, Edward M. and Nellie M., all residing with their parents. Edward won the four-years' free scholarship and is now attending James Millikin University, where his brother Bert is also a student.

On account of advanced age Mr. Dickson decided to retire from general farming in 1902 and on the 12th of August of that year removed to Decatur, where he has since lived retired. He served as assessor while in Milam township for two years, but has never been an active politician in the sense of office seeking, preferring to devote his time and energies to his business interests. Since becoming a naturalized American citizen, however, he has given an earnest support to the Republican party. His wife and daughters are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian church of Decatur. In his business career he has been successful, for he came to America empty handed and as an employe on a farm began working hard to earn his living. His economy, industry and perseverance have been the strong elements in his success and have gained for him valuable property holdings. The hope which led him to America has been more than realized, for in this country he has found not only prosperity, but has also gained the warm friendship and regard of manv with whom he has been associated.

William Baum

William Baum, who is successfully engaged in farming on section 24, lllini township, was born on the 19th of May, 1851, near Chambersburg, in Franklin county, Pennsylvania, and is a son of William and Lydia (Swan) Bauni, the former of German and the latter of English descent. The mother was a devout Qiristian and was noted far and near for her charity. By occupation the father was a fence builder. In the family were four children, of whom our subject is the youngest. One son and one daughter died in infancy. Samuel Baum, our subject's surviving brother, was a member of a Pennsylvania cavalry regiment during the Civil war and is now living at Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. He was twice married, his first wife being a Miss Lutz, by whom he had a son, Harry, now living in Hickory Point township, Macon county, Illinois.

Our subject was quite young when his father died and he then went to live with a Mr. Allen near Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, remaining with him until Mr. Allen's removal to Illinois in 1865. He received a fair district school education in his native county, and on leaving school at the age of fifteen years began work on a farm at seven dollars per month and was tlius employed until he, too, came to Illinois in i86y. In the northern part of this state he was also engaged in farm labor at twenty dollars per month for one year and his wages were subsequently increased until he received twenty-five dollars per month. He began life for himself without a dollar and to his own industry, economy and perseverance is due his success in life. He has acquired a good farm of eighty acres, which he has placed under a high state of cultivation and improved with every modern convenience. He paid fifty-two dollars and a half per acre for his land and has made it one of the most desirable places of its size in lllini township.

family of ten children, her parents being Thomas and Lydia Pharis. She was educated in ihe district schools of Ohio and Macon county, Illinois, and is a faithful member of the Church of God. Mr. and Mrs. Baum have one daughter, the wife of G. W. Lehn, who is a young farmer of exceptional energy and ability whose farm adjoins that of our subject. In his political affiliations Mr. Baum is a Republican and he has most capably filled the ofiice of school director. Wherever known he is held in high regard and those who know him best are numbered among his warmest friends.

Thomas Powers

Thomas Powers, deceased, became a resident of Macon county about 1863 and those with whom he was daily associated learned that his characteristics were those of upright honorable manhood and gave him their respect and regard. He was born in Waterford, Ireland, on the 21st of March, 1824, his parents, Thomas and Fannie Powers, being also natives of the Emerald Isle, where they spent their entire lives. In their family were four sons and a daughter that started for America, but the daughter died while on the ocean voyage. The eldest son was Father James Powers, who labored in the priesthood near St. Louis, Missouri, and is now deceased. Michael is a merchant of Curran, Illinois. Nicholas died in 1902.

Thomas Powers, the fourth son, acquired a good education in the best schools of his native country and then determining to try his fortune in .\merica he crossed the Atlantic and made his way direct to the village of New Berlin, .Sangamon county, Illinois, where he secured a position as ticket agent with what is now the Wabash Railroad Compaii)-. He occupied that position for several years, discharging his duties in a manner very satisfactory to the public and to the corporation which he represeiUed.

Whilf there residing,' Mr. Powers was married in Springfield. Illinois, to Miss Mary Murphy, also a native ot Ireland, born November 11, 1831. Her parents, Thomas and Bridget (Ryan) Murphy, spent their entire lives in that country. Eight children were born unto Mr. and Mrs. Powers: William, now deceased; Beatrice, the wife of Thomas Delaney, a resident farmer of Illini township, Macon county; Fannie, the deceased wife of William Ball, her death being occasioned by a railroad wreck ; James and Thomas, who have passed away ; ]\Iar_\-, who was killed in a railroad wreck ; Catherine, the wife of Andrew Paine of Missouri ; and Anna Henrietta, the widow of Thomas Hayes, who was a clerk in the Wabash Railroad office in Decatur. She has one child, Mary Mildred, and they reside with her mother, }ilrs. Powers.

After his marriage Thomas Powers resided in New Berlin, Illinois, for several years and then came to Macon county, purchasing a tract of land in Maroa township. He made a number of substantial and modern improvements upon his place and engaged in farming there with excellent success for about twentyyears. On the expiration of that period he sold his farm and removed to Decatur, where he conducted a dray line for a short time. He then went with his family to Springfield, Illinois, where he lived retired until called to his final rest, his death occurring October 10, 1883. He voted with the Democracy and had firm faith in the party and its principles, but never sought or desired office. His church relationship was with the Catholic church of Decatur and his widow and daughter now belong to the same organization. Mr. Powers was an honest, upright man, very successful in his business affairs and wherever he lived he won the confidence and trust of his fellowmen. After her husband's death Mrs. Powers resided in Springfield until 1891, when she returned to Decatur, where she has since made her home, owning and occuj)ying a nice resilience at No. 543 North Monroe street, where

Robert T. Williams

ROBERT T. WILLIAMS. After many years connection with the agricultural interests of Macon county, having located here in 1864, Robert T. Williams is now living a retired life in Decatur and has justly earned the rest which is now vouchsafed him. He is a native of Kentucky, his birth having occurred in Montgomery county, October 5, 1837, his parents being Colonel John and Carolina (Morrow) Williams. The Colonel spent almost his entire life in ^lontgomery county, having removed to Kentucky from Virginia in his early boyhood days. His wife was likewise a native of the Old Dominion and in her girlhood days accompanied her parents to the Blue Grass state, the family home being established in Montgomery county. Joining the Kentucky militia, the father became a lieutenant under \\'illiam Henry Harrison, and gained considerable distinction in military affairs. In the community in which he lived he was known as a progressive, prominent and influential man and was frequently called to positions of trust, having at one time been sheriflf of his county. As a means of livelihood he followed the occupation of farming. His wife's father, Robert Morrow, lived for many years in Montgomery county, but ere his removal from \'irginia served his country in the Indian war under the command of General Anthony \\'aync. He was an honored pioneer settler of Kentucky and aided in reclaiming that state from the dominion of the red men and in utilizing it for the purposes of civilization. The Morrows were originally from the north of Ireland and were of Scotch Presbyterian stock.

Robert T. Williams, whose name introduces this record, acquired his early education in private schools near his home and later became a student in the seminary at Mount Sterling,

Jerome B- Davis Mrs. Amelia Davis

Kentucky. In 1859 he took up tlie stuily of law with the intention of making its practice his Hfe work and continued to read the text books bearing on that subject until after the inauguration of the Civil war, when he offered his services to his country and joined the Fourth Kentucky Infantry. The period of his enlistment covered three years and he was mustered out with the h'ourteenth Kentucky Cavalrv. having served under the command of Cicneral Thomas. .\s a soldier he was brave and faithful to dtUy. never faltering in his allegiance to the cause which he espoused.

.\fter being mustered out Mr. Williams sought a home in Illinois, arriving in Macon county in 1864. He located in Mount Zion township, where he purchased a tract of land, which he at once began to improve and cultivate and as the years passed and his financial resources increased he extended the boundaries of his farm until it now comprises four hundred acres of choice farming land. Year by year he worked as an active and enterprismg agriculturist and annually added to his income until, having become the possessor of a very comfortable competence, he removed to Decatur, wliere since i8(j2 he has lived a retired life.

The year following his arrival in Macon county ]\Ir. Williams was united in marriage to Miss Sallie (iill, a daughter of Harrison Gill, of Bath county, Kentucky, and unto them have been born six children : Margaret, Harry I,.. Roger, Cordelia, W.irren and .Syliil. Mr. A\'illianis became widely known as a leading and enterprising agriculturist of his comnnmily and since establishing his home in Decatur has gained many friends here. His achievements should inspire all young men who read this record with a truer estimate of tJie value and sure rewards of character.

Jerome B. Davis

being in the village of Macon at the time of his death. He was then living retired after many years devoted to farming. He was born in Cohocton, Steuben county, New York, July 7, 1829, his parents being Daniel anil Elizabeth (\an Warmer) Davis, the former of Scotch and the latter of Dutch descent. They reared a large family in the Empire state. There our subject grew to manhood and was educated in nnich the usual manner of boys of his day.

( )n coming west Mr. Davis first located in Kendall county, Illinois, and at Newark he was married October 24, 1850, to Miss .\melia Ilollenback, a daughter of George and Sophia (Sidel) Hollenback. Her father was a native of \'irginia 1)Ut when a young man removed to Muskingum county, Ohio, in 1829, and was there married. He subsequently came west and after residing in Kendall county, Illinois, for a time, he located permanently on a farm in Macon county, this state, where he made his home until called to his final rest at the age of seventv-two years. His wife was sixtytwo at the time of her death. Her father died at the age of eighty years and her mother at the age of seventy. Mrs. Davis" paternal grandfather was eighty-two at the time of his death, and her grandmother reached the advanced age of ninety-seven years. Her ancestors came to America before the Revolutionary war. Mrs. Davis was born in Kendall county. Illinois, on the 1st of December, 1831, and is a twin sister of Hon. George Hollenback. a prominent citizen of Aurora, Illinois. In the family were twelve children, ten of whom reached manhood and w<imanhood and six are still living, but Mrs. Davis is the nnly one of the number living in Macon county. She was only six months old when the Black Hawk war broke out, at which time the family fled to Fort Dearborn (now Chicago) for protection, being among the first to reach that place. Her brother, Clark

Holl'cnback, was a soldier of the Civil war and died from the effects of wounds received in the service. Mrs. Davis was reared and educated in her native county, and is a lady of culture and refinement, well informed, and possessing remarkable intellectual powers.

Five children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Davis, as follows : Sophia is now the wife of Arthur McNicholl and has six children. George H., living near Lake Benton, Minnesota, is married and has twin children. Daniel H., of Decatur, is married and has two children. Melvin H., a prosperous farmer of Macon township, is married and has one child. Carrie Belle married Clem Smith, of Louisiana, and died in April, 1903, leaving two sons, both of whom are married.

In 1851 Mr. and Mrs. Davis went to New York state, where he was engaged in farm- . ing until 1857, when they returned to her native county, settling on the Fox river, near Aurora. He continued to carry on agricultural pursuits in Kendall county until the 15th of January, 1865, when they came to Macon county and located on a farm five miles southeast of Macon, having purchased two hundred and forty acres of wild land, which he at once began to cultivate and improve. At that time the country was full of sloughs and ponds and wild game was abundant, and Mr. and Mrs. Davis were eye witnesses of almost the entire development of this state. Their first home here was a little shanty, which was later replaced by a nice comfortable residence ; good barns and outbuildings were also erected ; and Mr. Davis planted every tree upon the place and ditched and tiled the land, spending about three thousand dollars in improvements. Tie handled considerable stock and continued to engage in general farming until the 1st of January, 1894, when he retired from active labor and removed lo the village of Macon, where he purchased a pleasant home and improved the place, it being still the home of his widow. For fifty years they traveled life's journey together, sharing its joys and sorrows, its adversity and prosperity, but soon after celebrating their golden wedding the husband was called away, dying on the 26th of November, 1900. The funeral services were held in the Methodist church and after the sermon, which was preached by Rev. Willard, he was laid to rest with IMasonic honors, having long been a member of that fraternity. In August, 1868, Mr. Davis united with the Methodist Episcopal church and was ever afterward a devout and earnest Christian, taking an active part in church work. He voted with the Republican party and held the offices of school director and road master in his township. Honest and reliable in business, he met with well deserved success and was able to leave his widow in comfortable circumstances. The old homestead is now rented and Melvin H. Davis now manages his mother's business aiYairs. Since the death ot her husband and daughter she has failed somewhat in health owing; to the shock caused by these sad events. She is a most estimable lady and is highly respected by all who know her, her lovely character having won her the friendship of all with whom she has been brought in contact.

JOHN ^^'. WALKER. I''or many }'ears this gentleman has been a resident of Macon county and his name is inseparably connected with the agricultural and comniL-rcial interests of this region. He has a wide reputation as a most capable business man and his life demonstrates what can be accomplished through energy, careful management, keen foresight and the utilization of the powers with which nature has endowed one and the opportunities with which the times surround him.

A native of Illinois, Mr. Walker was born in Madison county, this state, on the 29th of October, 1838, and is a son of Edmond B. and Rebecca (Chance) Walker. The father's birth occurred in North Carolina in 1809, and he was seventeen years of age when he came to Illinois with his parents aind located near Relleville in St. Clair county, becoming early settlers of that portion of the state. There he carried on farming' and stock-raising quite successfully for several years and became the owner of about two hundred acres of valuable land. He died in December, 1847, '" '''^' f'^''^''' of the Baptist church, of which he was a lifelong member, and to wdiich his wife also belonged. They were married at the home of the bride on Rich Prairie, north of Belleville, and became the ])arents of nine children, of whom four are still living, namely : Joel T., who is at the head of the firm of Walker & Snell, and has charge of the elevator at Moweaqua ; John W., of this sketch; Elijah, who is a prominent business man of Assumption, Illinois, where he runs an elevator and also conducts an implement store ; and Edmond 11., an extensive farmer residing near Blue Mound in Blue Mound township, this county. The mother of these children was born in t8i2 and came to Macon county with her two youngest sons in 1863, making her home with her children until her death, which occurred in February, 1892. lUr father. Rev. Joseph Chance, was a native of Kentucky and a minister of the Baptist He married Miss .Sarah Linton, who was born in Virginia and died in December, 1864. He was liorn in 1778 and died in 1840.

During his Iwyhood and youth John W. Walker received a good common school education in St. Clair county and for three months attended a school in Marion county, taught by his cousin, Jacob O. Chance, afterward clerk of the appellate court and still later of the supreme court of the United States. At the -age of twenty-three years our subject entered the Union army, enlisted at Summerfield, Illinois, on the I2th of .\ugust, 1862, as a member of Company C, One Hundred and Seventeenth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, with which he served for three years, being discharged at Camp Butler on the 6th of August, 1865, at the close of the war. He participated in thirty-three battles and skirmishes, including the engagements at Pleasant Hill, April 9, 1864; Marksville Prairie, Nashville, Fort Derusia, Fort Blakely and Spanish Fort. He was always found at his post of duty, valiantly defending the old flag and the cause it represented, and he never missed a battle or march in which his regiment took part during the entire three years he was at the front.

^^llile Mr. Walker was in the army his mother and two brothers had come to Macon county and purchased a half of what is now known as the Brennaman farm in South Macon township, consisting of one hundred and sixty acres, and on leaving the service he also located here, Duying ninety-two and a half acres of prairie land in the same township, which he broke, tiled and fenced and improved by the erection of a good house and liarn.

Having secured a home of his own, Mr. Walker was married in February, 1868, to Miss Martha V. Oglesby, a daughter of William B. and Edith (Moore) Oglesby, and six cnildren were born of that union, but only three are now living, namely: Edith R., wife 01 Frank Meyer, a farmer of Laurens, Iowa; George W.. who is manager for H. 1. Baldwin, a grain broker iif Decalur; and Mary K., wife of Orin L. Wright, a farmer of South ' Alacon township. The mother of these children died at Pleasant Valley farm near Walker Station, June 6. 1883, and Mr. Walker, was again married September 9, 1884, his second union being with Miss Mary E. Kautz, a daughter of Frederick and Mary Kautz, who were from Brown county, Ohio. Twins were lx)rn to our subject and his second wife but

-Mr. Walker continued to reside upon his first farm from March, 1868, until 1877, when he traded the place for a farm of two hundred and ninety-two and a half acres adjoining Walker Station, to which he gave the name of Pleasant \'alley stock farm. He became quite extensively engaged in the buying and shipping of cattle and hogs and in 1880 induced the Illinois Central Railroad to put in a switch and sidetrack and got up the petition to build a station here, to which was given the name of Walker in his honor. He then began to deal in grain as well as stock and in 1882 built the first elevator here. He shipped his first carload of cattle in .\pril, 1875, and continued in business alone until 1885, when he formed a partnership with his brother, Elijah Walker, R. T. .\llison and W. B. Xeubegin, under the firm name of Walker Brothers & Company, and purchased the south elevator at Macon, which they ran in connection with the one at Walker. Later our subject retired from the firm and for one year liianaged the business at Walker. He and his brother then purchased I\Ir. Allison's interest in the business, which they carried on under the style of Walker Brothers until 1888, when our subject became sole proprietor and disposed of the south elevator at Jilacort. He carried on the business alone at Walker until his elevator was destroyed by fire in December. 189.^, but in the meantime he had purchased an interest in the north elevator at ]\Iacon in partnership with J- F. \'ongunda\-. In the spring of 1895, i" partnership with Frank Snell. Mr. Walker erected a new elevator at Walker, which they sold in 1896 to his older son, Ceorge Walker, who is now manager for H. I. Baldwin. Besides the elevator at Walker the firm of Walker & Snell own one at Moweaqua and another at Radford, our subject being manager of the one at Walker. He has a nice home at that place.

Since casting his first presidential vote for -Abraham Lincoln in i860, Mr. Walker has affiliated with the Republican party. His father was a Whig in politics. For several years he served as school director but has always refused to hold other official position, preferring to devote his undivided attention to his extensive business interests. He and his brother are charter members of the blue lodge, .\o. 467, F. & A. M., of ^lacon, which they joined thirty-eight years ago, and he also belongs to the Grand Army Post at that place. Religiously he and his wife hold membership in the Methodist Episcopal church and give liberally to toth church and school work. Mr. Walker has made for himself an honorable record in business, and by his well directed efforts has acquired a handsome competence. As a citizen, friend and neighbor he is true to every duty and justly merits the esteem in which he is held.

Nirum Abbott

In the year 1871 Xirum Abbott became a resident of Decatur. He was a carriagemaker and \vood-\vorker by trade and because of his proficiencv in the line of his chosen vocation was a valued addition to the industrial circles of the city. A nati\e of Connecticut, he was born February 14. 1837. ti'iiJ was a son of Xirum and Elizabeth .\bbott, who were also born in the east. The mother died during the early childhood of her son Xirum. The father afterward removed to the west, making his way to Michigan, where he worked at the blacksmith's trade for a short time. He then became a resident of northern Illinois, where he followed the same pursuit and finally he removed to Minnesota, where he engaged in farming until his death.

John Barron

cation and then began preparing for a business career by learning the trade of wagon and carriage making. lie soon mastered the business, becoming an excellent workman, and later he owned a shop in Chaskey, Minnesota, where he carried on operations for several years. He continued to follow his chosen pursuit in that state until 1S71, when he came to Decatur. Here he was employed in the agricultural works for some time, but afterward resumed work at his trade, which he followed continuously up to the time of his demise.

Mr. Abbott was married in Rockford, Illinois, the lady of his choice being JMiss Louisa ^1. Cooling, a native of England, and a daughter of John and Ann Cooling. They came to .America in an early day and settled in Ogle county, Illinois, where the father engaged in farming and where both he and his wife eventually passed away. Mr. and Mrs. .Abbott became the parents of seven children, of whom three are now living, as follows : Hattic, the wife of William Brauchcr, of Dan\illc, Illinois; Charles J., who married Lulu Curry and is a painter in Decatur; and .Myrtle, who is residing at home with her mother.

In early life .Mr. .Abbott voted with the Republican party, but later held himself free from all party tics and cast his ballot for the candidates whom he regarded as best qualified for office. He was a hard working man and became skilled in his chosen pursuit, so that he was always enabled to command good wages at his trade and thus he left his family in very comfortable circumstances. His wife owns the property at No. 1048 North Monroe street, where she and her daughter reside.

JOHN BARRON. In a history of those who were once active in the business life of Decatur mention should be made of John Barron, now deceased, who was a real estate and loan agent here. His business grew to e.\tensive and important proportions and he was widely and favorably known as a representative of the trade relations of the city. He claimed \"ermont as the state of his nativity, his birth having there occurred in the city of Burlington, 2^1arch 21, i860. His parents were Patrick and Julia Barron, both of whom were natives of Vermont and they always made their home near Burlington, the father followed the occupation of farming. There both the father and mother passed away. One of their sons, however, is still a resident of Vermont, being now a priest of the Catholic church in Bennington. .A sister, Mrs. John Fitzgerald, resides in Troy, New York.

Julin Barron attended the public schools of his native county to some extent, but his educational privileges were limited. .At the age of ten years he left home and went to Lancaster, Ohio, where he began work as an apprentice to the blacksmith's trade, being thus employed for three years. From that time until his death he was dependent entirely upon his own efforts and deserved great credit for what he accomplished and at the age of thirteen years he came to Macon county, Illinois, and settled in the village of Warrensburg, where he began work at his trade. Later he engaged in blacksmithing on his own account and secured a good patronage because of his excellent workmanship, liis honorable business methods and his earnest desire to please his customers. While living in Warrensburg he likewise filled the office of postmaster for three years and was recognized as a leading and influential citizen there. In 1897 he renioved to the city of Decatur and became identified with its business affairs as a real estate and loan agent, his office being located at No. 123 East Main street in connection with James O'AIara, an attorney. He handled much valuable proijcrty and

On January i, 1900, Mr. Barron was married in Decatur to JMiss Mollie Holland, a native of this city and a daughter of John M. and Margaret (White) Holland, both of whom were natives of Ireland, whence they came to America at an early day, making their way at once to Decatur. They were among the early settlers here and Mr. Holland worked as a common laborer in Decatur until 1901, when he removed to Pueblo, Colorado, and retired from business life. Both he and his wife still reside in this city. Two children were born unto Mr. and Mrs. Barron: ^\"ilIie Andrew, born June 22, 1901 ; and Julia, born Januarv i, 1903.

The business career of Mr. Barron was one which gained him deep and sincere admiration from all who were familiar with his honorable record. Starting out in life for himself at the tender age of ten years, mastering his trade and then following it for a long period, he made his course such a one as was worthy of the highest respect. In public affairs he was prominent and while in Warrensburg he held the ofifice of constable and collector for several years. He was also postmaster at that place for three years and was assistant supervisor of Decatur for some time. He exercised his right of franchise in support of the Repub- lican party and always kept well informed on the issues of the day, thus being able to give intelligent support to the principles which he advocated. He was a charter member of Decatur Council, No. 577, Knights of Columbus, and both he and his wife were members of St. Patrick's Catholic church of this city. In manner he was genial and cordial and he gained man)- friends. He passed away December 28, 1902, and that he was a popular and highly esteemed citizen was shown bv the fact that his was one of the largest funerals ever held in the city, hundreds gathering to pay their last tribute of respect to one whom they had known and honored. Mrs. Barron owns a nice new residence at No. 940 North Edward street, in which she is now living, and she also has other valuable property interests in Decatur.

Levant B. C. Leffingwell

Levant B. C. Leiifingwell is now engaged in dealing in oil in Decatur. There are many points in his business career which show him to be an honorable, upright man and while he has encountered diilficulties anil hardships he has always maintained a reputation which proves the truth of the old adage that a good name is rather to be chosen than great riches. He is to-day, however, meeting with a fair degree of success and year l)y year his prosperity is increasing.

Mr. Leffingwell was born in Wheeler township, Steuben county. New York, January 16, 1830, a son of Jonathan and Hannah (Avery) Leffingwell, of New York. The paternal grandfather also bore the name of Jonathan Leffingwell and was a native of Massachusetts. The maternal grandfather was Temperance Avery, and he, too, was born in New England. Jonathan Leffingwell, Jr., died when but fifty years of age, his son Levant being then a youth of eleven years. He had always followed farming and upon the old homestead reared his family of eight children, of whom four are now living, namely : .\rtemas, Levant, Ruth Cordelia and Hannah Jane. Those deceased are .\maiula. Jonathan .\very. Lemuel and Leander.

Levant B. C. Leffingwell, who was the fifth in ortler of birth, accompanied his parents on their removal from the Empire slate to Indiana during his earlv boyhood and there he was reared. His advantasres for securing an education in early life were limited, however, for he was able to attend school only during three months of the winter season. He managed to acquire a knowledge sufficient, however, to enable him to teach school and he entered upon tliat profej^sion when twenty years of age, following it for five winters in the country district. During three winter seasons he was a teacher in Macon county. lie arrived here in 1856 and engaged in farming in connection with his educational work. In 1861, however, he returned to Indiana, where he spent four years. In 1865 he came once more to Decatur, where he established a grocery store, conducting this with a fair measure of success until 1873. He then became a factor in business circles of Indianapolis. Indiana, engaging in the wholesale paper trade. The following year he came once more to Decatur and again opened a grocery store, but about this time he met with financial reverses, and thinking to recover his losses he removed to Kansas in December, 1877, and homesteaded a claim. There he began life anew, but drought and failure of crops again brought gloom and disappointment. However, he did not totally lose his courage, but with a brave heart started again. Returning to Decatur in July, 1880, he engaged in the restaurant business, putting forth every efifort to make the enterprise a j)rofitable one with the firm determination that he would ])ay ofif all of his creditors. This honorable course he continued in and in four years he had paid off dollar for dollar. His business industry has since won him a fair measure of success. In 1884 he removed to I'lorida, where he spent one year, and then, returning to De-' catur, he again engaged in the grocery trade. In 1887 he began dealing in oil, which business he sold in 1893, removing then to California on account of the health of his daughter, .Maude, .'^hc was not benefited as they had hoped, but ilit-d in Indiana in 1895, and Mr. Leffingwell then returned to Decatur, where he became an oil dealer, and his attention is still devoted to that pursuit.

t>n the 24lh of August. 1854, Mr. Leffingwell was united in marriage to Esther Ann Sutton, who was killed by a run-away team on the i8th of April, 1888. She left two children: Maude, now deceased; and Sanford, who is living in California. On the iSlh of August, 1901, Mr. Leffingwell was again married, his second union being with .'\manda Seilegg, of Decatur. .Mr. Leffingwell and his wife have many friends in this citv. A man of strung individualitx' and indubitable probit}', he has attained a fair measure of success in the affairs of life, although he has encountered hardships and difficulties in his career. He is a man of genial and social nature and one who is honored and respectetl by all those who know him.

Francis Stewart

Francis Stewart was for many years identified with farming interests in central Illinois, and his acti\'ity in business and his trustworthiness in all trade transactions made him avalucd representative of agricultural life here. .\ native of the Emerald Isle, his birth occurred in County Down, March 24, 1837, and he was the youngest of the seven children of James and Dorothea (Brown) .Stewart, who were also born in CountyDown,but were of Scotch descent. The father was a miller by trade and owned a mill in his native country, where he and his wife spent their entire lives, the father passing away in middle life and the mother at an advanced age. In the family are two sisters who are yet alive in Ireland - Mrs. Isabella IJrown. a widow, in Belfast; and Martha Stewart, who is living in Killalcigh, County Down.

the family that came to America. He was eighteen years of age when he left home and went to Glasgow, Scotland, where he worked in a foundry for two years, after which he came to America in 1857, attracted by the business opportunities of the new world. He settled in Livingston county, New York, fift}' miles east of Buffalo, where he worked as a farm hand for three years, or until i860, when he came to Illinois and purchased forty acres of land in Christian county, to which he afterward added two hundred acres, thus making a v-aluable farm of two hundred and forty acres, which he owned up to the time of his death. In his farm work he was practical, enterprising and resolute, and his labors made his fields very productive and his work profitable. He had had but limited educational privileges in his native land but by experience and obeservation he added greatly to his knowledge and became a well informed man.

On the 26th of October, 1861, Air. Stewart was married to Miss Isabella Irvin, at Mount Auburn, Christian county. She was a daughter of James and Margaret (Corrigill) Irvin, natives of Scotland, born on the island of Pomona - "the goddess of flowers." Mrs. Stewart was born there and well remembers the beautiful island. Her father was a farmer there. She had an uncle who was pressed into military service to assist the allied armies fighting against Napoleon and as he was never heard from again it is supposed that he was killed at the battle of Waterloo. jNIrs. Stewart also remembers when church differences caused many of the Presbyterians to withdraw from their church under the name of Dissenters.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Stewart were born six children : James married Agnes Carr, a native of Canada, and they had two children, but both are now deceased. Dorothea and .Maggie were twins and the latter died in infancy, while the former died July 30, 1895, at the age of twenty years. Belle is the wife of William Black, living north of Blue Mound. William married Nellie Armstrong, of Blue Mound, and they have one child, Golda B., born July i, 1897. Charles, who is now superintendent of the schools of Elwood, Illinois^ waS a member of Battery D, Sixth United States Artillery, in the Philippines and returned home with health greatly impaired.

Mr. Stewart was a volunteer of the One Hundred and Fifty-second Illinois Infantry, and served until the end of the Civil war, proving a valiant defender of the Union cause. In times of peace he was equally loyal to the nation and ever had a deep and sincere love for the stars and stripes. His political support was given the Republican party and he held the office of school director. A Royal Arch Mason, he first held membership in Grove City Lodge, F. & A. AI., and on his removal to Blue Mound he joined Blue Mound Lodge, No. 682, of whicli he was an exemplary representative up to the time of his death. His church relationship was with the Presbyterian denomination, while his wife is a consistent member of the Methodist church. He lived true to the principles in which he believed and at his death, which occurred in Blue Mound, July 14, 1900, his remains being interred in Waltz cemetery, his loss was deeply felt by many friends. He came to this county a young man with verj^ limited capital and in an honorable business career he steadily worked his way upward so that he left to his family a comfortable competence as well as an untarnished name.

Andrew J. Thompson

He followed farming during the early years of his residence here, but afterward became connected with industrial and commercial interests of the city of Decatur, and his last years were spent in an honorable and well earned retirement from labor.

Mr. Thompson was a native of the Empire state, his birth having occurred near Rochester, New York, on the 4th of June, 1834. His parents were James C. and Mehitable (Gould) Thompson, also natives of New York, where they remained until their removal to the west at an early epoch in the settlement and development of Illinois. They took up their abode in McHenry county, this state, and upon the farm which the father cultivated and improved there they spent their remaining days.

Andrew J. Thompson was but a boy at the time of the removal of the family to the west, and his education, which was begun in the public schools of New York, was continued in the schools of McHenry county and in a college in Chicago, in which he was graduated. Through the periods of vacation and after completing his college course, he assisted his father in the operation of the home farm, and while there he also learned the carpenter's trade. He remained in McHenry county until 1859, when, with his brother, George W. Thompson, he came to Macon county. The latter engaged in farming near Warrensburg until his death, which occurred in 1899.

Andrew J. Thompson settled upon a farm in Hickory Point township and was there united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth A. Allen, who became a most faithful and valued companion on the journey of life. She was a native of Tennessee and a daughter of James Allen, who was born in South Carolina but spent the greater part of his life in Tennessee, devoting his energies to farming until his death, which occurred during the early childhood of our subject.

four children, but the first one died unnamed. Allen J., the son, married Dora Green, and now resides in St. Louis, where he is engaged in the restaurant business. Mina is now the wife of J. L. Hedrick, who is employed as a finisher in the Pullman car shops in Chicago. Eva, the youngest, died at the age of eleven years.

After his marriage .\ir. Thompson engaged in farming in Hickory Point township, where he remained for six years, and on the expiration of that period he sold his land and removed to Decatur, where he turned his attention to the grain business, which he followed for three years. He then began carpentering, which he followed for many years, being engaged on the construction of some of the best buildings in the cit}'. He also traveled for the Tait Manufacturing Company, manufacturers of agricultural implements. He traveled for this firm and also other manufacturers of Decatur, working at his trade with them all the time in their factories located at different places. He was thus connected with carpentering until a few years prior to his death, when he put aside active business cares and labors and enjoyed a well earned rest at his pleasant home in Decatur until called to his final rest. On the 13th of July, 1903. he had a stroke of paralysis and passed away the following day.

Mr. Thompson always took an active interest in politics and voted with the Republican party. He was a member of the Masonic fraternity of Decatur and also the Knights of Pythias lodge, while his wife is a member of the Christian church. She is an estimable lady whose excellent traits of heart and mind have gained her many friends. Mr. Thompson was particularly well known in Decatur and Macon county, where he made his home for forty-four years. He made it his aim to utilize his time to the best advantage, to so direct his labors as to bring the best results possible.

and he accomplished much through an active aiul reUable business career that won him tlie confidence and good will of all with whom he was associated.

William H. Bramble

Indelibly engraved on the pages of history in Illinois is the name of William H. Bramble. Within the last half century America has demonstrated her right to the leadership of the world in the realm' of invention. She, at first, by the brilliancy of her achievements won the attention of the old countries, then commanded a respect which rapidly developed into a wondering admiration. Though she cannot cope with the old masters in the fine arts, Europe has acknowledged her pre-eminence in science and useful invention. She has given to the world unexcelled labor-saving and costreducing machinery, and Mr. Bramble has contributed to this reputation of the Ihiited States through his efiforts along the lines of invention. It was said by an eminent Chicago divine that "There is nothing extemporaneous ; everything results from some previous condition or labor." This truth is especially manifested in the life of the inventor. He may perfect in a few weeks or perhaps days an invention of good worth, but it is the outgrowth of years of thought, study and experiment.

Mr. Bramble is now widely known as a pioneer of Macon county, as a prominent architect and contractor, and because of his inventive power is known as the "Western Genius."' He was born in Piketon, Pike county, Ohio, September 19, 1821, being the youngest of three children, the others being James, who died in early childhood ; and Rebecca, who became the wife of Dr. Lyman, of Chicago. The father, Henry Bramble, was born and reared in Maryland, and there learned the stone-cutter's trade. When a young man he removed to Pike coimty, Ohio, where he worked at his trade for a time and then devoted a number of years to the conduct of a hotel in Chillicothe, Ohio. Subsequently he removed to Delphi, Indiana, and for some time he engaged in merchandising. His next venture was in farming and in connection with his son-inlaw he purchased a large tract of land near Lafayette, Indiana, but after several years he sold his interest in this property and purchased land elsewhere, making his home on the latter tract until after his son was married. He then went to live with his son-in-law. Dr. Lyman, in whose home he passed away, at the age of forty-six years. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Sarah Turner, was a native of Ohio, and died in Chillicothe, that state, when her son William was a young lad.

William Bramble spent his early life in his father's hotel and store. He attended school until about sixteen years of age and then went upon his father's farm, but he possessed natural inventive genius and his gift in this direction was shown in earl)' boyhood. While working in the fields he would think of some improvement that might be made in farm implements and would immediately set to work to embody his idea in material form, perchance to the detriment of the field he was weeding. When but fifteen years old he invented a corn planter and about the time he attained his majority when lying in bed one night he suddenly conceived the idea of making a grain scale that would receive, weigh and discharge the grain and add up the amount. This idea took complete possession of him, but it required eleven years for him to bring" his ideas and the scale to perfection. In order to carry out his experiments he sold his farm and erected a hotel near Lafayette, Indiana, building a little workshop nearby. There he spent many hours every daytryingto perfect the grain scale. His mind was coinplcloly absorbed in ihc project and the money he received from the sale of his farm was soon spent. People of the neighborhood almost believed that he had lost his reason, so complclcly lUd he devote himseh' to his invention, bnl after eleven years of iiard and self-denying labor his work was completed. Going to Washington he received a patent and on his retnrn he began the sale of the antomatic grain scale. One of his sales amounted to eighty thousand dollars. The success of the invention was astonishing after a brief period. A machine w.is placed on exhibition at Lafayette which received and measured the grain, gave the number of bushels and calculated the amount which it might bring at the current price. From the receipts of his sales Mr. Bramble erected a large hotel in Lafayette, Indiana, which still bears his name.

There were, however, some difficulties to be overcome and hardships to be endured before he reaped the full reward of his labors. He sold his patent from a model, bnl when the purchaser came to put it in use it was worthless, so his property was returned and he handed back the money. He then borrowed money to improve this machine and after six months he went to Cincinnati, where he remodeled and perfected his invention. While there he received a gold medal upon it, also one in Baltimore and a third at the W^orld"s Fair in New York. The scale being completed, Mr. Bramble admitted a partner to the business and opened an office in Cincinnati, where lie began the sale of his machine. He sold it to the extent of about ten thoussand dollars, but through the rascality of his partner he lost all that he had made, retaining only about twenty-five hundred acres of wild land near Council Bluffs, Iowa. The machine he exhibited in every state of the Union and received premiums at hundreds of places, including the Ohio state fair in J855 and the New York state fair in the same year. He also won a gold medal at Baltimore and at the New York American Institute. He won a special gold nu-dal, a silver medal and the first diploma at the fourteenth annual exhibition of the Ohio Mechanics Institute and also gained another special lucdal, and all of these he now has in his possession.

In the spring of 1857 Mr. Bramble took his family and household goods to Iowa, jjroceeding by boat from St. Louis to his possessions near Council Bluffs. He found the country, however, wild and unsettled, being inhabited much more largely by Indians than white men, and not caring to make that district a place of residence he returned to St. Louis with the intention of making his way to Springfield, Ohio. Coming, however, to Decatur he decided to locate in this city, feeling that it had a promising future before it. He first purchased an acre of land of the late Orlando Powers, and thereon built a brick house, which he afterward sold for eight thousand dollars. He then purchased six and a half acres of land, upon which he has since built twenty dwellings, some of which he has sold at different times. He now owns a dozen or more residences in Decatur, all in two blocks. He has likewise done considerable contracting and building in this city fcjllowing the erection o{ his first brick house.

His inventive genius, however, has largely been the controlling influence of his life. Not content to engage in the usual routine of business affairs his genius at one time found expression in an improved bedstead known as Bramble's Spring Rockaway bed. This proved successful and met with an extensive sale, and many of the beds are still used. One of his most important inventions, however, is the Yale Postoffice Lock Bo.x, which is now in hundreds of towns throughout America and Euro])e. He re- ceives a royalty on every box sold and this affords him a princely income. He secured a patent on this box in 1865 and showed the invention to the postmaster of Boston and he agreed to adopt the box. Trouble concerning the invention followed, for the Yale JManufacturing Company of Stamford, Connecticut, adopted his ideas and began manufacturing the box without regard for Mr. Bramble's patent. A long contest followed, but at length the United States courts decided that Mr. Bramble should receive a royalty on every postoffice box manufactured. He has also invented a padlock that brings him a large income and he is the inventor of twenty-seven different styles of locks. A manufactory was established in Terre Haute, Indiana, called the Bramble Lock Compan3% of which he was superintendent, and from its manufactures he was to receive a royalty, but this company went out of existence after several months. Air. Bramble received twelve medals on his inventions and his genius places him among the most prominent inventors of the country.

In politics Mr. Bramble is a Republican and has been deeply and actively interested in local politics in Decatur. He has served as alderman of his ward for forty-five years and for a long time he was the only man the Republicans re-elected. He has high standing with the laboring classes and he has been an extensive employer of labor. All who have worked under him recognize his fairness, his justice and his regard for those who serve him. He has taken contracts for railroad work and graded the line between Decatur and Monticello, finishing the road in ninety days. Besides this he has done much grading of residence lawns and a few years ago he platted an addition to Decatur, covering four acres.

in December, 1900, at the age of seventynine j'ears. Three children were born unto them: Estella B., who is the widow of Alexander Jenison ; Edward Gordon ; and Oneis. A friend of all educational, social and moral interests Mr. Bramble has long been recognized as a progressive and public-spirited citizen of Decatur, and, though not a member of any religious denomination, he was for a number of years a trustee of the Baptist church and his support, co-operation and helpfulness have never been withheld from any worthy object. He has none of the eccentricities generally attributed to inventors, and when not in his workshop, engaged with his experiments, he has always been found as a man genial and affable, a gentleman whose pleasing manner has won him hosts of friends, while his achievements along the line of invention command the admiration and respect of the world. He has now passed the eighty-second mile-stone on life's journey and is to-day enjoying the fruits of his toil and the honor and fame which he has so justl}' won.

Saaiuel Weaver

SAAIUEL WEAVER. A resident of Macon county for more than half a cenutry, Samuel Weaver is one of the best known stockmen in Illinois, and his efforts in this direction have aided in gaining for the state its reputation as a stock-growing center of America. He owns altogether twenty-two hundred and fifty acres of land in this county, his home farm comprising seven hundred acres, and all is under cultivation. He resides on section 22, Hickory Point township, and while numbered among the most successful agriculturists of this part of the state all recognize the fact that he well deserves his prosperity for it has come to him as the direct result of his own labors. Since seventeen years of age he has been dependent upon his own

John G. Keller

Mr. Weaver was born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, in October, 1824, a son of Conrad Weaver, a native of the Keystone state, and of German lineage. Throughout his entire life the father followed farming and his labors were terminated in death in the year 1841. His widow, who bore the maiden name of Rebecca Senseman, survived him until 1862. They were the parents of ten children, of whom otir subject was the fourth in order of birth.

Samuel Weaver remained at home until after his father's death, when he started out to make his own way in tiie world, learning the blacksmith's trade in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, where he served an apprenticeship of two years, receiving nothing but his board and clothing during that time. He then returned to the farm and operated his mother's homestead farm for six years. In 1850 he started by team for Illinois, locating in Macon county. In 1850, in Pennsylvania, he had married Miss Sarah Sailer, and their life in the west was begun upon a farm of one hundred and twenty acres, which Mr. Weaver purchased on section 16, Hickor\- Point tow-nship. It was raw prairie and he turned the first furrows there and planted the first seed upon the virgin soil. For fourteen years he continued to develop, cultivate and improve that place and then removed to his present home on section 22, Hickory Point township, where he has seven hundred acres of valuable land. As his financial resources have increased he has added to his property from time to time until now his landed possessions in Macon county aggregate twentytwo hundred and fifty acres. All of liis land is under cultivation and in addition to the production of the cereals best adapted to the soil and climate he is extensively engaged in the raising and breeding of stock.

He has about one hundred head of cattle upon his place and also good grades of horses. His business in this line has been carried on so extensively and successfully that he has won the reputation of being one of the most j)rominent stock-raisers of Illinois. He is an excellent judge of cattle, horses and hogs, which has enabled him to purchase judiciously and to make advantageous sales.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Weaver have been born fixe children : Alfred, the eldest, resides upon the home farm ; Charles, who married Miss Shirley, is a farmer and lives upon the tract of land on which his parents settled more than a half century ago; Nancy is the wife of John Keister, of Maroa, Illinois, a well known farmer of this county; Catherine is the widow of Jacob Lehman, and resides in Hickory Point township ; and Susan is the wife of Asa Crossman.

Air. Weaver has served as commissioner of highway, but has never sought or desired public ofifice, his time and attention being fully taken up by his business alifairs, which are extensive, important and valuable. His life record should serve to inspire and encourage others who have to start out for themselves empty-handed, for it has been along legitimate business lines that he has won his splendid prosperity, so that he is now ranked with the most substantial citizens of Macon county, and is held in the highest honor and esteem.

John G. Keller.'

JOHN G. KELLER.' John G. Keller was born near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, in 1853, and at the age of four was brought to central Illinois, where he has since resided. He is the oldest of a family of eight children, all of whom are living. His father, Jacob S. Keller, born near Middletown, Pennsylvania, in 1828, of German descent, was married to Elizabeth B. Garver in 1850.

This union was severed by the father's death, wliich occurred October 21, 1903, making fifty-three years of married life, during fift_\- years of which deatli never visited the immediate family. The father was one of the early pioneers of central Illinois; sacrificing his eastern home he devoted himself to the development of the western wilds into waving fields of golden grain.

Our subject's boyhood days were spent on the farm, following the plow in the summer, and attending the neighboring school in the fall and winter. After availing himself of the privileges afforded by the country schools, he attended Westfield College, from which he holds a certificate of graduation.

The greater part of his life, thus far, has been devoted to educational work, ranging from country school to city and county superintendencies. In 1894 he was elected county superintendent of the Macon county schools ; in 1898 he was re-elected to the same position, which he held until the expiration of the term December i, 1902, making eight successive years of public service. He has taken an active part in politics as well as in education, serving seven years as chairman of his home township, and two years as chairman of the county central committee.

In August, 1890, at Argenta, Illinois, Mr. Keller was united in marriage to Mollie B. Wikoff, who is a descendant of the Burns family, of which Robert Burns was a member, and has for the last nine years been a resident of Decatur, Illinois.

Mr. Keller is a member of the following lodges : Macon Lodge, No. 8, A. F. & A. M. ; lodge No. Ill of the Order of Eastern Star of Decatur;' lodge of Modern Woodmen of Argenta ; and of the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks, Decatur Lodge, No. 401.

James E. Brown

JAMES E. BROWN. James E. Brown is one of Macon county's native sons and a representative of an old and honored familv of this section of the state, whose identification with the history of this country dates from an early period in its development. He was born in Illini township on the 2 1 St of November, 1868, and is a son of Amos and Abbie A. (Brown) Brown, natives of New Hampshire and Massachusetts, respectively. The father was born in Kensington, March 9, 1843, his parents being Stephen and Dollie ( Batchelder ) Brown. The latter 's fath.er, David Batchelder, was a deacon in the Congregational church at Hampton Falls, New Hampshire, having succeeded his father and grandfather in that office. Our subject's paternal grandfather, Stephen Brown, was a very prominent and influential man in his community and was called upon to represent his town in the state legislature. He was born February 4, 1817, and died July 7, 1900. In his family were ten children, of whom Amos is the second in order of birth. The latter is the father of six children, four sons and two daughters, nameh' : James E., whose name introduces this sketch ; John A., who married Mabel C. Ingham and is living in Illini township ; Alice M. and ]\Iay Helen, both at home with their parents ; .\rthur, who was born September 14, 1884, and died in the following November ; and a son, who was born October 28. 1885, and died the same day.

James E. Brown secured his early education in the district schools of Illini township and later took a general course at the normal school at \'alparaiso, Indiana, in 1889 and 1890. He began earning his own livelihood by working on a farm at eighteen dollars per month and has since devoted his time and energies to agricultural pursuits with good results. He commenced farming for himself in 1891 upon the Taylor farm on section 30, Illini township, where he remained two years, removing to his present farm on the same section in the fall of 1893. He is now the owner of one hundred and si.xty acres of land which he has placetl under a high state of cultivation and well improved, making it one of the model farms of the locality. He feeds about two carloads of cattle for market each year and a half a carload of hogs, and he also owns and operates a threshing machine and corn-sheller. He is a very industrious, energetic man and the success that he has achieved is certainly well merited.

On the 1 2th of January, 1892, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Brown and Miss Katharine M. Batchelder, a daughter of Samuel E. and Sarah M. (Clark) P>atchelder. Her paternal grandfather was Nathaniel Batchelder, a son of Elisha Batchelder and grandson of David Batchelder, who was torn January 13, 1736. Her father, Samuel E. Batchelder, was born in Pittsfield, New Hampshire, February 24, 1828, and died in lllini township, this county, July 3, 1893, his remains being interred in the lllini cemetery. He inherited the old homestead in New Hampshire, which he sold and removed here about i860, becoming one of the leading men of the community. He was a deacon in the lllini Congregational church, which was organized in 1868 and is one of the few churches of that denomination in Illinois that has never received any aid in building the house of worship and in suporting its ministers. Mrs. Brown is the youngest in a family of four children, the others being Augusta, wife of William T. Eaton; Abby Whitehouse, who was horn June 8, 1858, and died October 22, 1893; and John Clark, who married Susan L. Harper. Our subject and his wife have an interesting family of si.x children, whose names and dates of birth are as follows : Avis Marilla, .\pril 24. 1893 ; Mildred, August 27, 1894: Kathleen .-\ugusta, December 26, 1895: Baxter Batchelder, January 18. 1898; Helen .\bigail. December 13, 1899; and Theodore, June 28, 1902.

Mr. Brown is an ardent Republican in politics and for two years has filled the office of road commissioner. P)Oth he and his wife are active and consistent members of the Congregational church of lllini and are people of prominence in the locality where they reside, their circle of friends and acquaintances being extensive.

Jesse E. Yohe

Jesse E. Yohe, a well-known jewelry merchant of Decatur, has resided in this city for the past fifteen years. He was born in Monongahela, Pennsylvania, a son of John S. and .\manda .S. Yohe. The father was a carriage manufacturer and in the year 1880 he left Pennsylvania and removed with his family to Mount Vernon, t)hio, where he remained for seven years and then came to Illinois, the family home IxMng established in Shelbyville, Shelby county. The father again engaged in carriage manufacturing, but later turned his attention to agricidtural pursuits, conducting a farm in the southern part of the state.

Mr. Yohe of this review accompanied his parents on their removal to Ohio and to Illinois. He pursued his education in Mount Vernon, Ohio, and after his father began fanning he assisted him in the cultivation of fields and meadows on the home place in southern Illinois. In 1901 the family removed to Macon county and here the father again engaged in farming. He is still living in this county. L'nto him and his wife were born ten children, four sons and si.x daughters, all of whom yet survive with one exception.

It was in the year 1889 that Jesse E. Yohe arrived in Decatur. He was then quite young and he entered the service of H. Post as an errand boy, but his ability, faithful performance of his (hities and close adherence to his work gradually won him advancement and that he enjoyed the uncjualified confidence and trust of his employers is shown by the fact that he remained for fourteen years in the services of H. Post & Son, learning the watchmaker's and jeweler's trade during that time and becoming an efficient workman. In March, 1903, he resigned his position and pur- chased of E. J. Harpstrite the jewelry store located at No. 146 East Prairie avenue. This he is now conducting and it is recognized as one of the best jewelry stores in this part of the state.

Mr. Yohe is a member of Macon Lodge No. 8, A. F. & A. M., also belongs to En Ami Lodge No. 593, K. P., and to the Modern Woodmen Camp, No. 1626. Socially he is connected with the Iroquois Club, of this city. He is one of the popular and prominent business men of Decatur and his establishment is well conducted, he handling a large line of fine jewelry goods, which in its attractive arrangements wins the attention of the public and secures a liberal share of the general patronage. Mr. Yohe is genial in manner and his unfailing courtesy and deference for the opinions of others have won him the high regard of young and old, rich and poor.

Cyrus M. Lmboden

CYRUS M. LMBODEN. Cyrus M. Lnboden, who has longer been connected with the butchering business than any other representative of the trade in Decatur, was born in Pennsylvania in 1845. His father, John Lnboden, was a native of Lebanon county, that state, and on the 22d of November, 1855, arrived in Decatur, where on the 23d of December of the same year he opened a meat market. He did his own slaughtering and purchased his own stock. The new enterprise proved profitable and he continued to engage in that business until the 1st of April, 1880, when he retired to private life. He was then succeeded by his sons, Cyrus M. and John G., and the new firm continued in the trade until the ist of October, 1808, when Cyrus M. Lnboden became sole proprietor. The market has been continued at one location since its establishment in 1835. The father's first shop was in a small frame building twenty by thirty feet and one story in height. That was afterward replaced by a brick structure of the same size and early in the '60s he built the present block known as the Imboden Block at the corner of South Main and Wood streets. L was built in modern style and thoroughly equipped for the purpose intended and in the new building Mr. Lnboden gained even greater success than he had previously enjoyed.

While in Pennsylvania John Lnboden was united in marriage to Sarah Mark, a native of Lebanon county, and when he came to Decatur was accompanied by his wife and their four children. They made the journey westward by way of Pittsburg, Cleveland and Chicago and eventually reached Macon county. Air. Imboden never sought or desired office, preferring to devote his time and attention to his business affairs until his retirement from active business life. He died December 31, 1899, and his wife passed away March i, 1894, at the age of seventy-five years. In their family were nine children, of whom seven are living, all sons. These are Cyrus M., of this review ; Adam H., who is married and is a traveling salesman of Wichita, Kansas ; Hiram, who is married and is living in Wichita ; Miller, who is married and conducts a flouring mill in Wichita ; David C, who is engaged in the brokerage business in Chicago; and John G., who is a farmer and stock-dealer 01 Macon county, carrying on business on an extensive scale and acts as judge of cattle in Chicago; and Frank W., a Methodist minister, located in Kingman, Kansas. The other members of the family died in infancy. The father was president of the board of trustees of the First Methodist Episcopal church for many years and took a very active part in chtnxh work.

Cyrus M. Imboden acquired his education in the schools of Decatur and after putting aside his text-books began clerking in this city, being thus engaged with several large firms. At the age of seventeen years he enlisted in Compan>' F, One Hundred and Fifteenth Illinois Infantry, as a private under

Andrew Shoemakkr Mrs Andrew Shoemaker

Captain F. L. liases and Colonel Jesse H. Moore, lie served until February 29, 1864, and was then discharged on account of severe wounds sustained in the battle of Chickaniauga on .September 19 and 20, 1863. After his return from the war he engaged in the grocery business and in other pursuits in connection with his brother Adam until July 6, 1870, when he became a member of the firm owning a meat market established by his father. The firm name was then changed to Tmboden & Son and our subject has since continued in this business, conducting the market along progressive lines and keeping thoroughly in touch with modern ideas. He deals in a high grade of meats and because of the excellent quality of his goods and his honorable business methods he receives a large and growing patronage.

On the 9th of Augu.^l. 1870, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Imboden and Miss Clara Allison, a daughter of Dr. B. A. and Amanda (Patrick) Allison, the former a native of Kentucky and the latter of Indiana. Seven children were born of this union, of whom five are now living: Daisy J., the wife of Ira Fleming of Storm Lake, Iowa; Sarah, who is a teacher in the public schools of Decatur ; Charles A., who is a bookkeeper in the Millikin Bank ; Benjamin A., who holds a similar position ; Susanna, a student in the high school of Decatur; and two that died in infancy. The family residence is at No. 236 West North street.

I'raternally Mr. Imboden is a Mason, belonging to the blue lodge and chapter and also to Beaumanoir Comniandery, K. T. In public affairs he has been prominent and influential and in the '80s he served for two terms as assistant supervisor. He has always taken an active part in politics yet has never sought office for himself, preferring that his friends should have the honor and responsibilities of public office. He is a prominent member of the First r^Iethodist Episcopal church, with which he has been identified for forty years,

Andrew Shoemaker

Andrew Shoemaker has passed the seventy-thinl mile-stone on life's journey and and is now living a retired life. In former years he was a well known contractor, but now a rest from further labor has been vouchsafed to him as the reward for his activit\f and energy in earlier years. He was born in Herkimer county. New York, November 20, 1828, a son of John S. and Lena (Piper) Shoemaker, both of whom were natives of the Empire state. In their family were eight children and four of the brothers are still living in New York.

Mr. Shoemaker of this review was the third in order of birth and he pursued his education in his native county, studying in the old schoolhouse which stood on what was known as Shoemaker Hill. Nearly all of the pupils in that school bore the name of Shoemaker, as the family was a numerous one in the locality. Our subject was reared to farm life, early becoming familiar with the labors of field and meadow and he assisted in the cultivation of the old homestead until he was twenty-two years of age. .At that time he went to work on the Hudson River Railroad under J. B. Moss, assisting in making the grade for that road. He acted as foreman for the contractor for a number of years and in this capacity was engaged upon the construction of the Erie canal, being foreman of a crew enlarging that artificial waterway.

The business opportunities of the west, of which he heard favorable reports, attracted him to Illinois and in 1852 he came to this state. Here he worked under J. B. IVIoss, the contractor, acting as his foreman in the grading of the Alton Railroad. Later he returned to the east, remaining three months, and on the expiration of that period he again came to Ilhnois in 1854 and took charge of the raih'oad work on the Ilhnois Central Railroad extending through Cairo. With railroad building he was long actively identified as a contractor and has taken and executed many contracts for railroad bridges and special work. He has also carried on contracting as a carpenter and in this capacity has erected a number of good buildings in Decatur and vicinity. He possesses excellent mechanical ability and thoroughly understands the great scientific principles which underlie such work. He has, moreover, had varied practical experience and in the execution of his contracts has displayed marked capability, fairness and skill. Many evidences of his handiwork are seen in substantial structures in Decatur and the surrounding country and he continued in business until about 1897, when he put aside the more arduous cares of life and has since lived retired.

On the 28th of October, 1856, Mr. Shoemaker was united in marriage in Decatur to Miss Sarah Jane r^Icyers, a native of Indiana, and a daughter of James Meyers. She came to Illinois during her girlhood days and for many years she was a faithful companion and helpmate to her husband on the journey of life, but in May, 1903, she was called to her final rest, passing away when about sixty-six years of age. Four children had been born unto ]\Ir. and Mrs. Shoemaker, but one was deceased ere the mother's death. The others are as follows : Ernest, who resides at home ; Mary L., who is acting as her father's housekeeper ; and Chloe, who is now the wife of Ira Swarts, of Christian county, who is a train dispatcher on the Illinois Central Railroad. They had two children but both are now deceased, (irace .Shoemaker, a daughter of our subject, was the wife of James Brooks and died leaving one daughter, Florence

I. Brooks, who now lives in Chicago. Mrs. Shoemaker was a consistent and active meniljcr of the (irace Methodist Episcopal church and a lady whose many excellent traits of character endeared her to all who knew her so that her death proved a great bereavement to her many friends as well as her immediate family.

In his political affiliations Mr. .SluDemaker has long been an active Democrat and served as alderman of the city fourteen years, being elected to represent the fifth ward. He exercised his ofificial prerogatives in support of every measure which he believed would prove of public good and did much for the substantial progress and improvement of the city. He also served as a volunteer fireman of Decatur and for thirtysix years he has been a valued and honored member of the Odd Fellows Society, exemplifying in his life its beneficent principles.

For thirty-nine years he has occupied his present home at No. 992 East Eldorado street, this lia\ing been one of the first houses erected in that part of the cit}-. The land lying to the east of his home was even not under cultivation at that time and there were many sloughs, which seemed to render it unfit for tilling. There was a great (leal of wild game in the neighborhood and the work of improvement and progress seemed scarcely begun. Mr. Shoemaker has taken a deep interest in everything pertaining to the progress and development of this ' part of the state and has borne his full share in this work. He now owns a substantial residence in Decatur and other city property and is well-to-do as the result of a life of industr}-, enterprise and careful management.

In 1852 he cast his first presidential vote, supporting Pierce, and he regards it the dutv as well as the jjrivilege of every American citizen tt) manifest his preference for the candidate nominated for office that the best interests of the couiitr}- may be thus conserved. His wife was a devoted member of the Grace Methodist Episcopal church for many years and took an active part in foreign and home missionary work and in tlie work of the Sunday-school and yoinis' people's society. She did everything in her power to uplift humanity and to extend the cause of Christianity and hers was a noble example. Mr. Shoemaker has now advanced far on life's journey and because he. too. has lived an upright and honorable life he receives the veneration and respect which should ever be accorded one of his

Prominent among the successful citizens of Macon county w'ho are devoting special attention to the raising of stock and have met with marked success in thai business is John F. Keister, whose home is on section 32, Maroa township, owning one of the valuable and well improxed farms of that locality. His jiossessions have all been actpiircd through his own cfiforts and as the result of his good management and excellent business ability he has become one of the most substantial men of his community.

Mr. Keister was born in 1843 in York county, Pennsylvania, of which slate his parents, Peter and .'^usan Keister, were also natives. In i<S5o the father brought his family to Macon county, Illinois, and was engaged in farming in Hickory Point township until called to his final rest in 1889. The subject (^f this review was only seven years old when he came to this county. which at that time was but sparsely settled and much of the land was still in its primitive condition. As soon as old enough to be of any assistance he began to aid in the work of the farm, being reared to habits of industry and usefulness. At the age of twenty-two he rented a tract of land from his father and was engaged in its operation for eight or nine years. At the end of that lime he was able to purchase two hundred and eighty acres, for which he jiaid forty dollars per acre, and he has since bought more land from lime to time until he now has three hundred and sixty acres in Maroa U)WHslii|) anil fnnr lumdretl acres in Hickory Point township, having paid one hundred and twenty-five dollars per acre for the last that be purchased. He has made all of the improvements upon his home l)lace, which is one of the best farms in the county. Besides his comfortable residence he has built large barns and other outbuildings for the accommodation of grain, stock and agricultural implements. At the present time he gives all of his attention to the raising and feeding of cattle and is one of the best known stock men in the county. He has a fine herd of one hundred and twentyfive head of cattle upon his place. It is his custom to go to Texas and buy calves, which he brings home and fattens for market. Twice he has fed fifteen head of Herefiird cattle for the International Fat Stock .'show, and on the first occasion received three hundred and fifty dollars in premiums and the second time seven hundred dollars. I le is now feedmg several head for the World's I'air, to be held in St. Louis in J 904.

In 1866 Mr. Keister married Miss Nancy .\. Weaver, a native of Cumberland county, Pennsj'lvania. and a daughter of Samuel Weaver. I'nlo them ha\e been born six children, namely: Charles, who died at the age of twenty-four years ; Samuel, who died at the age of four: Mary, who died at the age of thirty ; Frank, who died at the age of twenty-one; Harriet, now the wife of Frederick Moore, who is living in South Hakota ; and Mabel, at home with her parents.

mablc people, well liked by all who know them. In his political affiliations our subject is a stanch Republican, and he is an honored member of the Grand Army Post of Alaroa, having been one of the defenders of the Union cause during the dark days of the Rebellion. When the war broke out he was too young to enter the service, but in 1864 he enlisted in Company E, One Hundred and Forty-fifth Illinois Volunteer Infantry under Colonel Lackey, and on the expiration of his term of enlistment was mustered out at Springfield, Illinois. His life afifords an excellent example to the young in that he started out for himself without capital, but having a determination to succeed he industriously applied himself until he has acquired a good property and stands to-day among the most prosperous and substantial citizens of the county. It is his intention to retire from active business life in the fall of 1903 and remove to Maroa, where he expects to spend his remaining years in ease and quiet, enjoying the fruits of former toil.

HIRA:M H. WISE. Hiram H. Wise, who is now engaged in the real estate business in Decatur and whose inventive genius has given to the world a number of devices of value and importance, was born in Akron, Ohio, on the 31st of December, 1851, his parents being William and Catherine (Kline) Wise, both of whom were natives of Pensylvania and were of German descent. The father was born in Union county of the Keystone state and the mother's birth occurred in Cumberland county, but they spent many years of their active lives in Ohio, where the father carried on agricultural pursuits. He was an enterprising farmer who prospered in his undertakings and who died upon his Ohio farm in the year 1876. Hiram H. Wise is the youngest in their family of twelve children. Those still living are : Mary, the wife of John Benner ; William J. ; Lydia, who is the wife of Abraham Wilhelm ; Jacob ; \\'ashingfton ; Catherine, the wife of William J. Ridgely; Hiram H. Those deceased are: Samuel, Elizabeth, Susan, Rebecca, and Peter, who died in infancy.

Hiram H. Wise spent the first nineteen years of his life in the state of his nativity, being reared to manhood upon the old home farm, while the district schools aflforded him the educational privileges which he enjoyed in his youth. When a young man of nineteen years he left Ohio for [Macon covmty, establishing his home in Blue Mound in March, 1 87 1. After attaining his majority he married and in order to provide for the expenses of the newly established household he began business as a barber, conducting the first shop in Blue Alound. It was thus he gained his start. After two years he turned his attention to the music business, carrying a line of musical instruments and musical specialties in connection with sewing machines. In that store he continued until 1881, when he removed to Taylorville, Illinois, where he became a dealer in agricultural implements.

In January, 1882, however, he removed to Decatur and formed a partnership with S. M. Lutz as proprietor of a music store, which he conducted for three years. On the expiration of that period he sold out to his partner, who still continues the business. Mr. Wise then located on St. Louis avenue near the southwestern border of the city of Decatur and established what is known as the Wise addition to the city. He is now dealing in real estate and has an excellent knowledge of reah\- values and of the properties that are on the market. He puts forth every efifort in his power to secure the improvement of the city along special lines of progress and as a real estate dealer has excellent opportunity to aid in the substantial growth of Decatur in this way. As a real estate dealer he now has a large clientage and his business is proving profitable. His own attractive home was built on the Wise addition in 1887. While a resident (it Blue .Mound he also laid out an addition to that place and assisted in dividing the village into town lots in 1892. lie also gave to the city a beautiful park, which has been named Wise's Park.

Mr. ^^'ise also possesses considerable inventive genius and three of the productions of his brain have come to public notice as being useful and valuable devices. He is the inventor of a window frame, which is so constructed that the window may be opened and cleaned without removing the sash. This is especially valuable for office buildings. He also invented a shaft supporter and anti-rattler, a uni(|ue invention likely to be brought into general use. .Another work of his fertile brain and busy hands is a dumbwaiter U> lower into open wells for the preservation of fruit and table delicacies. Mr. Wise is continually thinking out along original lines and his efforts have been of considerable benefit to the world and show marked mechanical ingenuity.

In 1873 was celebrated the marriage of Hiram If. Wise and Miss Sarah E. Seiberling, a daughter of James Seiberling, one of the honored pioneers of P>lue Mound, now living at the age of eighty-five years. .Mrs. ^\"ise was born in Akron, Ohio, but since her early girlhood days lias lived in Macon county, where she has a wide acquaintance and a large numlier of warm friends. Socially Mr. Wise is coimected with Chevalier Bayard Lodge, K. P. He usually votes with the Democratic party, but is Prohibition in sentiment and has long been a w'arm friend of the cause of temperance, doing everything in his power to suppress the sale of intoxicants. His interest in his fcllow'-men is deep and sincere and his cooperation has been given to many measures for the general good. In the business world he has attained an enviable position and a creditable reputation and the success which has crowned his efforts shows that ability, energy and strong determination are important factors in the active affairs of life and that earnest, persistent labor will idlimatciv bring its reward.