Decatur Township (part 24 of 46)

Henry Ruthrauff, the eldest of this faniil\ , was born in Washington county, Maryland. near Lcilersburg, January 2^. 1843 '""^' o" '^'^'^ 2(1 of January, i860, at Waynesburg, Franklin county, Pennsylvania, he was married to Miss Piarbara Snyder. When the Civil war broke out he volunteered for service in the Union army, responding to President Lincoln's second call for soldiers to serve for nine monllis. He enlisted in Company B, One Hundred and Twenty-sixth Regiment of Pennsylvania Infantry and the first engagement in which he took part was the second battle of Bull Run, under General Pope, the regiment being attached to the Fifth Army Corps. The second battle in which he was engaged was at Antietam and there he was with the Fifth Cor])s under General Fitzporter. He was wounded at Maria Hill, December 13, 1862, in the left ankle, and was then taken to Point Lookout, on the 1 6th of December. There were sixteen thousand wounded soldiers at that place. There was a contagious disease among the patients and as the doctors carelessly used the same sponges on different patients the disease was spread and Mr. Ruthrauflf contracted it and almost lost his life thereby. There was a remonstrance made to Governor Curtin, of Pennsylvania, and he investigated and found that the treatment of the soldiers was anything but what it should be. He immediately ordered that all soldiers from Pennsylvania who were unfit for duty in thirty days be sent to Turner's Lane hospital in Philadelphia. Mr. Ruthrauff was among the number thus transferred and be remained in the latter hospital until ihe expiration of his nine months' service, which was in April, 1863. -At that time he returned home and worked for his father at cutting wood, receiving thirty-three and a third cents per cord. He felt then that he had done his share to aid in the preservation of the Union, but when the battle of Gettysburg occurred and Lee made his raid through i VnnsyU ania. visiting the home of William Rutin-auff and there robbing him or (loslroying everything he had. Henry RuthraulT decided to again enter the arm\'. lie enlisted at Chamljersburg, I'cnnsxlvania, in Company K. 'I'wenty-first Regiment of Cavalry, and went into camp at Chambersburg for three months. The regiment was then ordered to the front and won honor by its valorous service. It was, also notable on account of its mounts, four companies being mounted on bay horses, two on grays, two on sorrels, two on blacks and two on iron roans. The battalion to which Air. Ruthrauff belonged was drilled liy Major Gillis, a West Point graduate, who was believed to be the best drillmaster in the country. Mr. Ruthrauff was in the First Battalion of the Twenty-first Pennsylvania Cavalry, commanded by Colonel Boyd. On arriving at Arlington Heights the members of the regiment were ordered to give np their horses and were then given muskets, after which they proceeded on foot. They then reported to Grant and it was about this time when the battle of tlie Wilderness occurred, after which the command to which Mr. Ruthrauff belonged proceeded to Richmond and he took part in all of the engagements with his regiment up to the time of the surrender at Appomattox. In November, 1864, the regiment was remounted and sent to General Gregg's command - the second division of cavalry. He was wounded in the hand in front of Petersburg and was also wounded in the hip at Poplar Grove church. Shortly afterward they went into winter r|uarters in front of Petersburg, but in January they were ordered to (lestrov the Weldon Railroad. This was done by the Fifth Corps of Gregg's Second Division of Cavalry, who demoHshed the road for one hundred and fifty miles. This is known in history as General Warren's famotis raid, the soldiers being almost continuously in their saddles for eleven days and nights and by Mr. Ruthrauff this was considered the most severe experience which he had throughout his military career. The battalion to which ho belonged also acted as General Sheridan's escort at Five Forks. The war having ended and the flag of the nation having been victoriously planted in the capital of the southern -confederacy, he was mtistered out of service on the 8th of July, 1865.

Returning to the north Air. Ruthrauf? engaged in farming on a small scale at his old "nome in Franklin county, Pennsylvania, but not being very successful there he decided to -come to the west and in 1870 made his way to Illinois, locating on a farm in Sangamon county, near Illiopolis. Subsequently he removed to Macon county, Illinois, settling on a farm about five miles northeast of Decatur, and he continued to engage in agricultural ptirsuits in various places in JNIacon count}' for several years, when he sold out and embarked in the milling business at Rochester, Sangamon county. He also conducted a similar enterprise at Athens, Menard county, but did not find that a profitable source of income and, disposing of his mill, he has since followed different occupations.

Harry Ruthrauff, whose name introduces this record, is one of a family of ten children and was only about three years of age when his parents removed to Illinois. He was for one year a student in the schools of Sangamon county and later continued his studies in the McGee school in Macon county and in Brush College, thus being well equipped to meet the practical and responsible duties of a business career. After putting aside his textbooks he was connected with agricultural pursuits for a time and between the ages of seventeen and twenty years he was engaged in coal mining in Athens, Illinois. He also spent one year at Wellington, Kansas, where he was employed in a lumberyard and on the expiration of that period he came to Decatur, securing work at the new shaft of the Decatur Coal Company. He had the misfortune, however, to break his leg and was then given the position of night watchman by the firm of Conklin, Tait & Company, whom he represented in that capacity for a year. Subsequently he engaged in general work in the coal mines at Athens, Illinois, and in 1888 he again came to Decatur, where he accepted his present position, being inspector of the city water works, having supervision of the mains and plumbing. For eight years he has served in this capacity in a most acceptable manner. He has a thorough understanding of the requirements of the position and is well qualified to act in this capacity. All the pipe work for the new Alteration plant came under his personal supervision, also the new mains on North Main street, Green, East Orchard and Wabash streets. Other divisions to the water system have been made under his supervision, including the extension of the lines on Eldorado and Broadway to Stone street in 1902.

In 1884 Mr. Ruthrauff was united in marriage to Miss Helen Skelley, of Decatur, and unto them have been born six children : Dolly M., Qifford B., Bonnie B., Teresa, Mabel and Helen. Mr. Ruthrauff belongs to En Ami Lodge, No. 593, K. P., to Easterly Camp, No. 1626, M. W. A., and to Lincoln Tent, No. 1039, Knights of the Maccabees.

George W. Kaylor

GEORGE W. KAYLOR. Among the most pleasant rural homes of Macon county is that of George W. Kavlor in Decatur township, the culture and artistic taste of its occupants being reflected in it? appointments, while a gracious hospitality adds a charm to its material comforts. The owner was born in Decatur township on tlie

17th of ^larcli, 1858, and is a son of Jacob and Rachel (Street) Kaylor, who made their home here for many years and were numbered among the highly respected citizens of the communily. The father was a native of Marjland, born April 16, 1818, and in early life went to Ohio, where he married Miss Rachel Street, who was born in that state, Pebruary 22, 1817. On coming to Illinois they first located in Mechanicsburg, and from there removed to Decatur township, Macon county. In 1851 the father purchased the farm now owned b\' our subject in the northwestern part of that township. He belonged to a long-lived race and reached the age of eighty-two years, dying on the 4th of March, 1900, honored and respected by all who knew him. His estimable wife survived him only a short time and passed away April 14, 1900. George W. Kaylor was educated at Sunnyside school and his early life was spent upon the home farm, where he acquired a good practical knowledge of the occupation to which he has devoted his attention since reaching manhood. His is one of the model farms of Decatur township, containing one hundred and six acres and supplied with all modern conveniences and accessories. For the first ten years of his business career he rented the farm from his father and in tlie meantime bought property in Decatur, which he disposed of in 1892 and took permanent charge of the larm. He has not only erected good and substantial buildings upon the place but has tiled the land, removed boulders and otherwise improved it. The recent improvements have been frequent and up-to-date, including a drive-well ; forty-foot Star windmill, and a combined horse and cow barn, twenty by forty feet, with an addition, fourteen by forty feet. The residence, which was built in 1893, is undoubtedly the most up-todate in the township, containing all the ^conveniences of a city home, such as hot water equipment, compressed air tank, etc. The granarv. iwmtv-six bv fortv feet, with an elevator attached, the power, gasoline engine with oil-cooling device and without batteries, was built in 1903, and has many modern iinprovements that are the result of the inventive genius of Air. Kaylor. in this many of his original ideas have been carried out and perfected in a manner which will bring satisfactory resiUts not only to himself Init to others who may have occasion to use any appliance of this kind. Mr. Kaylor is a man who believes in up-to-date methods and has made progress along lines which are yet to yield results and bring his inventions in touch with the business world for its advancement and progress.

On the 22d of December, 1881, he was united in marriage to Miss Nancy E. Fisher, who was born in Sangamon county, Illinois, September 5, 1857, and is a daughter of Charles and Isabella A. (Bowen) P^isher, botli deceased, the former a native of Kentucky and the latter of Sangamon county, Illinois. Mrs. Kaylor is the second in order of l)irth in their family of five children, the others being Mary E., wife of D. Morris, of W averly, Illinois; Catherine E., who died at the age of twenty-four years; W. Z., a resident of Sangamon county; and John N.. who is living in ¥A Reno, Oklahoma. Mr. and Mrs. Kaylor have one child, Sadie 15., born in 1886.

In national politics Mr. Kaylor votes the Democratic ticket, but at local elections, where no issue is involved, he supports the men whom he believes best qualified for office regardless of party lines. For many years he has been school director of his district and also clerk of the board. He was superintendent of the Sunday-school for five years and has held all the offices that are in the Methodist Episcopal church, to which he belongs. Socially he is a member of Chevalier Bayard Lodge, K. P., and the Modern Woodmen of America, and was camp lecturer for re-adjustment in 1903. He is a worthy representative of that class of citizens who lead quiet, industrious, honest and useful lives and constitute the best portion of a community. Wherever he is known he is held in high regard and is certainly deserving of honorable mention in the history of his native countv.

Anthony Heckler

Since 1856 Anthony Heckler has been a resident of Decatur and for many years was actively identified with its -industrial and business interests, but is now living a retired life in his pleasant home at No. 455 South Broadway. As an energetic, industrious man he acquired a competence during the years of his active business career that now enables him to live in ease, free from the cares and responsibilities of business affairs.

j\Ir. Heckler was born in Wurtemljurg. (Germany, on the nth of January, 1828. a son of Anthony and Elizabeth (.\ngele) Heckler, who spent their entire lives in that country. The father made farming his life occupation and both he and his wife died in their native land. They had two children to come to America, these being Anthony and his sister Mary, now the widow of Charles Walser and a resident of Decatur.

Our subject acquired his education in the public schools of his native land and worked on a farm before his emigration to America. It was in 1854 that be crossed the broad Atlantic and landed in New York citv. For

.\fter coming to Decatur Mr. Heckler was married in i860 to Miss Grenesne Haider, also a native of Germany, of which country her parents were life-long residents and are both now deceased. Unto our subject and his wife were born six children, as follows : Elizabeth, now the wife of D. Armbruster, living with her parents ; Edward, a resident of Chicago ; Teressa, wife of Thomas Vest, who makes his home in Quincy, Illinois : Carrie, wife of Charles Conway, of Decatur ; Josie, wife of Louis Meyers, of Decatur; and Anna, wife of Homer Maxwell, of Little Rock, Arkansas. The mother of these children is now an invalid.

Both Mr. and Mrs. Heckler are members of the German Catholic church of Decatur and are held in high regard by all who know them. In politics he is a Democrat but at local elections votes for the man whom he believes best qualified for office regardless of party afifiliations. He has never cared for official honors, having preferred to give his entire time and attention to his business affairs, in which he has met with success. Besides his residence property he still owns the store building which he erected near his home. In all the relations of life he has been found true to every duty that has devolved upon him and he well merits the confidence and respect so freely accorded bini by his fellow citizens.

in the Empire state, and then came west, locating near Monticello. in I'iatt county, Illinois, where was similarly eni])loyed fur a short time. Ik then came to Decatur and first worked as a laborer for old Dr. Johns, but shortly afterward obtained emplo\ment in a furniture factory and continued to engage in that business for twenty years. At the end of that time he erected a store buildinij near bis residence and was eni;"a"ed

DA\ ID L. EBERLY. David L. Eberly, a well known carriage trimmer of Decatur, is a native of Illinois, born in Princeton, .\ugust 11, 1856, and is a son of Isaac Eberly. who served for three years in the Civil war and laid down his life on the altar of his country, dying in the service. V>y trade he was a carpenter. The sub- ject of this sketch was fducatcd al Ouincy, Illinois, and after leaving school at the aye of seventeen years learned the trade of carriage trimming in that city, serving an apprenticeship in the carriage shop of E. M. Miller, for whom he worked for four years and a half.

About 1878 Mr. Eherly came to Decatur and entered the employ of Wayne Brothers, remaining with that company and its successor, the Wayne Sulkyette and Road Cart Company, for twenty-one years. In 1897 he embarked in business on his own account, trimming for that and other firms, and doing all kinds of repair work, such as retrimming buggies and surreys, putting in new cushions and side curtains, and re-covering old buggies and grocery wagons. He has Iniilt up a splendid trade and is considered one of the best as well as the oldest carriage trimmer in the city.

Mr. Eherly was married in Decatur in 1878 to Miss Agnes Wright, a daughter of John and Eliza (Runkle) Wright. Iler father is deceased, and lu-r nnulu-r now makes her home with our suliject, at the age of sixtyseven years. Mr. and Mrs. Eberly have three children living, namely : William, who is a draftsman for the Mueller Manufacturing Company ; Mabel and Emmett. .Ml are graduates of the Decatur high school. The oldest son, Clarence, was killed in a railroad accident while going on a hunting expedition at the age of sixteen years, just six months before he would have graduated from the high school. His death was a sad blow to his parents and many friends.

In his social relations Mr. Eberly is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America, and both he anil bis wife hold membership in the First Christian church of Decatur and take an active part in its work, Mr. Eberly having been a member of the church board for three or four years. They are held in high regard hy all who know them and have many friends in the citv where [hv\ make their home.

John ]-". Kemnierly is one of the leading farmers of South Macon township, his home being on section 14. The possibilities that America offers to her citizens he has utilized, and though he came to this country in limited circumstances he has steadily and perse- \eringly worked bis wa}' upward, leaving the ranks of the many to stand among the successful few.

Mr. Kemnierly 's early home was on the other side of the Atlantic for he was born in Germany, January 8, 1829, his parents being George and Kate (Shoemaker) Kemmerly, also natives of that country, the former born in 1800, the latter in 1804. They were farming people and continued to reside in the fatherland ibrougboui life. Our subject has two sisters living in the United States : Carolina, now the widow of Chris Rissler and a resident of lndianai)i>|is, Indiana; and Hannah, widow of Frederick Shempf and a resident of Pana, Illinois.

In the common schools of his n;iiivc land John I'". Kemmerly ac(|uired a good practical education, and there he grew to manhood. In 1850 he entered the ( lerman army, with which he served for six years, and was then honorably discharged. The following year - 1857 - he came to America and was first enipli>\ed on a farm near i'aris, Ohio, where he worked four nionths. .\t the end of that lime he went to Shelby county. Illinois, where he continued to work as a farm hand for three years, and then engaged in farming on his own account ni)on rented land in tl'.at ciiunly for twenty-two years. He was at length enabled to purchase his present farm of one hundred and ten acres on section 14, South Macon township, this county, for which he gave forty dollars per acre, and he has since devoted his energies to its development and cultivation, it being mostly wild and unnnproved when it came into his possession. .After living for seventeen years in a little log house lu' built his ])resent substantial

I'ranie residence, also erected barns and outbuildings, has set out fruit and shade trees, and by hard work has converted his place into one of the most desirable farms of its size in the localit)-. In early life he used the single-shovel plow and other primitive farm implements, but now has the most modern and best improved machinery for facilitating farm work. He feeds some cattle and hogs for market and also raises a good grade of horses. On the loth of August, 1857, in Richmond, Indiana, I\Ir. Kemmerly was united in marriage to Miss jMagdaline Colby, a daughter of Frederick and Kate (Kagle) Colby, and nine children blessed their union, six of whom are still living, namely : John F., who is engaged in farming near Moweaqua ; Lizzie, wife of Frank Cox, who follows farming near Shelbyville, Illinois ; Emma, widow of Ernest Heise and a resident of Pana, Illinois ; Henry, who is engaged in farming on the home place : Tillie, also at home ; and Charlie, who is now operating a rice plantation near Colby, Louisiana. The parents arc both members of the Lutheran church and I\Ir. Kemmerly is a supporter of the Republican party and its principles. They are widely known and their many friends and acquaintances hold them in the highest regard.

Henry Lunn

HENRY LUNN. Every civilized country on the face of the globe has sent representatives to Illinois, yet to no people does she owe more than to the Anglo-Saxon race, whose business activity and adaptability and marked enterprise have made them valued citizens wherever they have carried the civilization of Great Britain. Mr. Lunn is a representative of this class, his birth having occurred in Newark, Nottinghamshire, England, on the 9th of April, 1841. His parents, William and Sarah (Baker) Lunn, were also natives of England, and the father Ijccame a contractor and builder, following that pursuit throughout his active business career. Both he and his wife died when about seventy-six years of age. In their family were seven children : Alfred, who is now a contractor and builder of Newark, England ; Ann, the wife of John Porter, who took up his abode in Ohio in the '50s and removed to Kansas before its admission into the Lnion ; Elizabeth, the wife of the Rev. Frank Hoyes, who came to this country in 1869 and afterward located in Kansas, becoming a member of the Methodist Episcopal conference there and now residing in Topeka, that state ; Eliza, the deceased wife of John Lane, an English revenue officer for the British government ; George, a farmer and bricklayer, of Kansas ; and Henry. The other children of the family died in infancv.

In the public schools of his native land Henry Lunn acquired his education and he mastered his trade as an apprentice, serving for eight years under his father, who was then the superintendent of construction for the electrical commission of England. Hearing favorable reports concerning the new world and its opportunities he resolved to try his fortune in America where competitionwas less and advantages more quickly secured. Crossing the Atlantic in 1872 he established his home in Decatur and the same year took out naturalization papers intending to make the United States his home country. In order to provide for a livelihood he began contracting and building in partnership with Henry Bishop, a relation that was maintained tnitil 1875, when the connection was dissolved and Mr. Lunn began btisiness for himself. During the greater part of the time since that period he has been one of the successful contractors of this city and many of Decatur's fine residences are the visible evidence of his life of thrift and enterprise and of his excellent handiwork. He erected the Hill, Cato and Shellabarger residences, the Tait factory and power house, with its high smoke stack, the building of the llaworlh M ami tact uriiiij Company and man\' Inisincss houses of the city. In 1889, however, he went to Spokane, \\'ashiniflon. where he remained until 1894 and then again came to Decatur. At that time he entered into partnership with his two sons, Ernest H. and Thomas, as builders and contractors and this relation was continued until 1903. when the partnership was dissolved. Mr. Lunn, however, is yet actively identified with building interests of the city and many important contracts are annually awarded him. showing his high standing as a representative of the vocation and also indicating the confidence and trust reposed in liini by the general public.

In 1866 was celebrated the marriage of Henry Lunn and Miss Emma Dodson, a daughter of Thomas Dodson, and unto them have been born five children : Ernest H. : Thomas; I.ula, the wife of Frederick Codington, of Lincoln, Illinois: ^Minnie G. : and Percy, who died in Spokane, Washington. In the year 1875 Mr. Lunn was converted to the Christian faith anil has since been a member and local minister of the Methodist Episcopal church, being ordained in the Columbia river conference at Moscow, Idaho. While in the northwest he held charges, thus preaching the gospel in connection with his daily work of building. He is an earnest. energetic laborer in the Master's vineyard and through more than a quarter of a century has put forth eflfective effort in behalf of the church and the extension of its influence. He has always read broadly, thinks deeply and believes in keeping abreast with the times. In carl\ life he gave his political support to the Republican party, but since the death of President Garfickl he has voted with the rrohibition party, believing the temperance question to be one of the paramount issues before the people. He stands as a representative of the high type of American manhood, fearless in defense of his honest

Mr. Lunn's actions have during his life been such as to distinctively entitle him to a place in this publication, and although his career has not been filled with thrilling incidents, jirobably no biography published in this book can serve as a better illustration to young men of the power of honesty and integrity in insuring success.

Henry, Hagan

No foreign element has become a more important part of our American citizenship than that furnished by Germany. The cmigraiUs from that land have brought with them to the new world the stability, enterprise and perseverance characteristic of their ])eople and have fused these c|ualities with the progressiveness and indomitable spirit of the west. Mr. 1 lagan is a worthy representative of this class. He came to .\merica empty handed, hoping to benefit his financial condition, and his dreams of the future have been more than realized.

A native of Germany, Mr. Hagan was born in Hanover, on the 4th of April, 1830, and is a son of Louis and Fredericka (Milhousen) Hagan, natives of the same province. The father, who was a farmer by occupation, died in Germany of black smallpox when our subject was only ten years old. At the age of fourteen Henry began working at odd jobs in order to hel]) his mother in the support of the family. She, too, died in Germany. There were only two children, our subject and a sister, who came to this country and died in Missouri.

Henry Hagan continued to work in his nntive land until 1852, when he came to the United States and on landing made his way direct to Decatur, Illinois, where he arrived on the 26th of March, that year. At that time nuich of the citv was under water and land could be purchased for two dollars and a half per acre. During the half century that has since passed all this has been changed and Decatur now ranks among the leading cities of the state, while the country round about is valued at over one hundred dollars per acre.

Mr. Hagan first secured a position in the brickyard and afterwards as night watchman in the furniture factory and held the same for seven years. Later he was employed in the slaughter house for some time and next worked for the city as a laborer on the street for several years but on account of his wife's health he finally gave up work and is now practically living retired, though he does some gardening upon vacant lots which he owns. He has a nice home at No. 606 East Decatur street, where he and his wife now reside and owns two other good residences on South Broadway besides much vacant property, all of which has been acquired through his own industry and good management.

In i860 Mr. Hagan was married in Decatur to Mrs. Helena (Gillis) Kongs, who was born in Prussia. Germany. July 27, 1832, and is a daughter of Michael Gillis, a farmer who died in that country. For her first husband she married John Kongs. whose death occurred in Salem. Illinois. Unto our subject and his wife were born seven children, two of whom died in infancy unnamed. Augusta also died in infancy and Josephine died at the age of seven years. Those still living are Helena, who is now in the employ of A. W. Conklin, of Decatur: Henry C., who married Katie Higgins and is a machinist of Decatur; and Johnnie Louis, who is employed in a planing mill in Denver, Colorado.

Politically ^Ir. Hagan is a stanch supporter of the Republican party and its principles. He is a member of the German .\id Society of Decatur and the German Lutheran church, whiK- his wife belongs to the German Catholic church of this city. Since the age of four-, teen years he has made his own way in the world unaided and he deserves great credit for the success that he has achieved. He has many friends among the early settlers of Decatur and is held in high regard by all who know him.

Hexry Kreidler

Henry Kreidler, now deceased, became a resident of Macon county when but nine years of age. He was a native of Kreidlersville, Northampton county, Pennsylvania, born on the 19th of December, 1855. His parents, Conrad and Elemina (Hower) Kreidler, were also natives of the Keystone state and in 1864 they left Pennsylvania and removed with their family to Macon county, Illinois, settling in Blue Mound township, where Mr. Kreidler inuxhased a farm. He then gave his attention to general agricultural pursuits and stock-raising and as the years passed placed many excellent improvements upon his property, which became a valuable and desirable farm. He and his wife spent their remaining days on the old homestead and were liighlv res]5ected people of the community. Three of their children are now living, name- 1\- : Mary, who resides in the village of Blue ]\Iound ; Percy, who is a resident of Chicago : and Thomas, who is living in Evansyille, Indiana.

Henrv Kreidler obtained his early education in the common schools of Macon county and when he had mastered the elementary branches of learning he attended college in W'adsworth, Ohio, and received an excellent business training, well qualifying him for the responsible duties of life. He then returned to Blue ilound, Macon county, and was married on the 2 1 St of October, 1880, to Miss Mary J. Stare, who was born in Decatur and is a daughter of George and Barbara (Barnett) Stare. ])ioneer settlers of this city, a sketch of whom is given elsewhere in this volume.

in the hardware business in the village of Blue IMound for six years and then removed to Decatur, where he was first employed in the Wabash Railroad shops. Later he held a position in iiachman Drolhers' furniture store for seven years and then engaged in the undertaking business with l-'rank L. Hill for about a year, but at the end of that lime he sold his interest to his partner and accepted a position in the furniture store of Sanford & Wilson. -At the time of his death he was connected with the 15achman Brothers & Martin Company, but was making arrangements to remove to California.

-Mr. Kreidler was a prominent member of Chevalier Bayard Lodge, Xo. i8y, K. I'., and as prelate he opened and closed the meeting with prayer the night of his death, September 7, 1897. He seemed in his usual health when he started for lodge, although for some time he had suffered from heart disease. At the close of the meeting about ten o'clock, he left the hall and it is supposed that on his arrival home he started for the stable to water his horse, which was his custom. His wife, who sat up waiting for him, became alarmed and at half past two telephoned to police headquarters. Several officers started out in search for him and two hours later his body was found in the yard back of the house. His sudden death was a sad blow to his family and many friends for he was widely known and held in high regard. At a regular convention of Chevalier Bayar<l Lodge held Tuesday evening, September 14, 1897, the following resolutions were adopted :

\\ hereas, we feel that by his death the lodge has lost a worthy officer and true Knight and that the loss to the lodge is an individual loss to every member, for we knew him as a true friend, who was always honorable and courteous, ever striving b)- his daily life to practice the highest principles of our order and it is gratifying to remember that one of his last acts in life upon the evening of his death, was lo close the lodge with a fervent |)ra\er that on the last great day we may all meet, a happy and united brotherhood, to share the blessings of life eternal!

" Resolved, That in the death of our l.)rolher we will ever be reminded of the uncertainty of life and the certainty of death ; and while the sun of life will set and cover the faults of man, the morning sun will rise in grander splendor to light the path of righteousness.

liesides his connection with the Knights of l\\thias. Air. Kreidler was also a member of Decatur Camp, Xo. 144, M. W. ,\. In early life he gave his allegiance to the I lemocracy and later because of his strong temperance principles he voted with the Prohibition party and in other wa\s did everything in his ]M)wer to advance the cause of temperance and suppress the evils incident to the continuance of the li(|uor traffic. 1 le was never an office seeker nor di<l lie hold positions- of political preferment. His business career was always commendable because of. his fidelity to the trust reposed in him, his in<lefatigable energy and his earnest desire to please his patrons and those whom he represented. .Mr. Kreidler took a deep and helpful interest in clnuTh work, both he and his wife holding membership in Grace ^Methodist Episcopal church, of which he was serving as treasurer at the time of his death. He was also a teacher in the Sunday-school and he gave freely and generously of his time and means for the advancement of the cause of the church and the e.xtension of its influence. Mrs. Kreidler takes on active interest in charitable and [ihilanthropic work and is now serving as secretary of the Anna B. Millikin Home for old ladies and children, and as state superintendent of the railroad department of the Woman's Qiristian Temperance Union. She is now living with her mother, Mrs. Stare, in Decatur, and both are well known ladies, having many ,warm friends because of their many excellent traits of heart and mind.

BYRD L. DAVIS. Byrd L. Davis, who is engaged in the livery business in Decatur, was born in Macon county, on the 28th of June, 1869. His paternal grandfather, Joseph Davis, was a native of Kentucky and his family were originally from Virginia. He was one of the pioneers of this state and one of the founders of Macon county, becoming identified with business here at a very early day and aiding in the work of reclaiming the district for the purpose of civilization. He became well known as a leading trader and he drove mules from Macon count)^ to Chicago, trading them for wagons which he brought back and sold. His son, H. W. Davis, the father of our subject, was born in Macon county, here spent his youth and afterward became a farmer, stockraiser and nurseryman, carrying on these pursuits until his removal to Decatur in 1879. In this city he established a livery business, which he conducted with success . until his death, which occurred in 1896, when sixtytwo years of age. His widow yet makes her home in Decatur. II. W. Davis belonged to a family of nine children, but only one of the number is now living, Mrs. Lydia Kizer, the wife of John Kizer, of Decatur. One of the brothers, John Davis, removed to Kansas in 1875 and was elected to congress there, becoming one of the leading and eminent citizens of that state. He died there in the year 1900. H. W. Davis was united in marriage to Miss Samantha Stickle, a daughter of John

Stickle, who was a native of Penns_\lvania, and became one of the early settlers of Illinois. In political affiliation H. W. Davis was a Republican and took an active part in support of the organization and served as supervisor of his township.

Byrd L. Davis pursued his education in the public schools of ]\Iacon county during his early boyhood and when a young boy o£ ten years came with his parents to Decatur. He was a student in the high school here and he entered upon his life work as a farmer in Champaign coimty. He afterward returned to Decatur where -he has since been engaged in the livery business, being first located at No. 564 North Water street. He afterward sold his stable there and opened another at No. 140 East Cerro Gordo street and in i8q6 he took charge of his father's livery barn at 564 North Water street. In April, 1899. l^^ removed to his present location at No. 140 South Main street and here he is conducting the leading livery of Decatur. Besides this barn Mr. Davis has two other barns in Decatur and has in his employ an average of thirty-five men. In July, 1903, he purchased the undertaking establishment of Peter Perl & Son, which is now being conducted under style of Hawkins, Davis & Company. Mr. Davis has rice lands in Texas and mining properties in Gilpin county, Colorado. He has a splendidly equipped establishment, all of his carriages being rubber tire and he also has a number of automobiles. He not only rents these and the carriages in the establishment, but also does a transfer business.

In 1895 Mr. Davis was united in marriage to Miss Bertha Smart, a daughter of James Smart, of Shelbyville, Illinois. The children of this marriage are Ethel Ann, Fleta May, Josephine and Ilene. Mrs. Davis is a member of the Baptist church. Fraternally our siibject is connected with the RTodern Woodmen of America. In politics he is independent, voting for the man whom he believes best qualified for office regardless of party lines.

David S. Shellabarger

The viewpoint of the world concerning business has materially changed in the past century. At one time the man of prominence would have nothing to do with trade relations and derived his income from his landed estates. Today the most distinguished men of all nations are they who have controlled the veins and arteries of traffic and each community points with pride to its industrial and commercial leaders, realizing that to them is largely due the prosperity and development of every locality. For forty-five years Decatur has numbered David S. Shellabarger among its prominent and progressive citizens. He may well be termed one of the founders of the city, for he has been the promoter of one of its leading cnterjirises. His connection with any undertaking insures a prosperous outcome of the same, for it is in his nature to carry forward to successful completion whatever he is associated with. He has earned for himself a reputation as a careful man of business and in his dealings is known for his prompt and honorable methods.

A native of Cumberland county, Pennsylvania. ^Ir. Shellalxirger was born July u, 1837, in a locality which had been the home of his ancestors through several generations, and in his own life record he has followed the industrial trend of the family. His parents, David and Catherine (Byerly) Shellabarger, were also natives of Cumberland county and in their family of ten children, David S. was the fifth in order of birth. The family home was on the bank of the Canadaquinctte creek, about eight miles above Carlisle, the principal town of the Cumberland valley, a region noted for its beauty and fertility. There on the home farm David S. Shellabarger spent the days of his boyhood and youth, assisting in the labor of field aiid meadow, while in the district schools he mastered the branches of English learning usually taught in such institution. Reading, experience and observation, however, have largely broadened his knc)wk(lge since he left the schonlrooni and he is today a man of broad and practical general information. He worked upon the home farm until his nineteenth year, when he resolved to seek business opportunities in the west, and in the spring of 1856 he located in Decatur, where he soon became connected with the lumber trade. After two years, however, he abandoned the lumber business in ortler to devote his energies to milling, purchasing a third interest in a small mill, which stood on the i)rcscnt site of the Decatur Milling Company's mill and which was afterward destroyed by fire. Although he had no practical experience in his new work he came of a family of millers and he possessed considerable mechanical ingenuity. His grandfather owned a mill adjoining the farm upon which David Shellabarger was reared and other members of the family had followed the same pursuit. For five years after becoming connected with milling, business was carried on under the name of Ilenkle, Shellabarger & Compan_\- antl in 1863 our subject disposed of his interest in that enterprise and became half owner of a mill, of which he afterward became sole pro]M-ictor. his partners being I. Shellabarger and B. Dillchunt. the firm style of I. Shellabarger & Company being assumed. In 1869 the firm of D. S. Shellabarger & Company was formed and under the enterprising and liberal management instituted by our subject and his business associates, their enterprise grew to large proportions. Several times the original plant was enlarged, and in 1879 a new mill was built, while the old mill was also retained as a feature of the business. The milling interests of our subject became one of the leading enterprises of Decatur and the business was the largest of the kind in central Illinois. Mr. Shellabarger also owned an interest in a mill in Topeka, Kansas, and another in Wichita, which were among the best mills in the Sunflower state. With all the practical details of the business he made himself thoroughly familiar and was thus qualified to supervise the operative departincnt of the enterprise as well as the business features of the office. In j\Iay, 1903, he disposed of his milling- interests to the American Hominy Company, of which he was formerly a director.

Tn 1885 a company was incorporated as the Shellabarger Mill & Elevator Company, with a capital stock of one hundred and fifty thousand dollars, with D. S. Shellabarger as president : W. L. Shellabarger, secretary ; F. D. Shellabarger, treasurer; and L. C. Shellabarger, superintendent. Our subject, however, has not confined his attention or limited his energies alone to one line. He was a cooperant factor in the establishment of the street car system of Decatur, which superseded the old horse-car system, but sold his interest in the same in July, 1903. He is the vice president of the National Bank of Decatur; in the spring of 1903 organized the Decatur Elevator Company, capitalized at fifty thousand dollars, of which he is president and which owns elev.Htors along the lines of the Wabash and Illinois Central Railroads. He is also president of the Manufacturers' & Consumers" Coal Company, with mines in Decatur, capitalized at one hundred thousand dollars. He has aided materially in advancing many interests of the city which have resulted to its benefit and upbuilding, outside of his individual business affairs.

In January, 1862, occurred the marriage of Mr. Shellabarger and Miss Anna E. Krone, a native of this city, and they have eight children, four sons and four daughters : a son who' died in infancy ; Adele, the wife of E. B. Hillman, a resident of Peoria, Illinois; William L., secretary of the Shellabarger Mill & Elevator Company ; David S. ; Charles Thatcher ; Lucian C, who is superintendent of the mills; Fred D., who is the treasurer of the company; Maria, the wife of Andrew S. Crawder. a real-estate dealer in Spokane, Washington: Grace, the wife of J. F. .Mien, of Colorado Springs. Colorado ; and Corinne,

I'rom the organization of the Republican ])arty down to the present Mr. Shellabarger has been an advocate of its principles and when age gave to him the right of franchise he cast his first ballot fol" Abraham Lincoln in 18O0. Fie believes it the duty of a true citizen to keep well informed on the issues of the day and to fill capably such positions to which his fellow townsmen shall call him, and in 1869, 1870 and 1871 and again in 1880 he served as a member of the city council of Decatur. In 1872 he was elected mayor antl his administration was practical, progressive and resultant. For two terms he represented Decatur township on the board of supervisors, and for twelve years was a member and president of the school board. For many years he has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and for more than a decade was superintendent of the Sunday-school connected w ith Stapps chapel, now Grace church, of which he was one of the founders in 1867. His life has been one of continuous activity in which has been accorded due recognition of labor; and today he is numbered among the substantial citizens of his county. His interests are thoroughly identified with those of Decatur, and at all tiines he is ready to lend his aid and co-operation to an}' movement calculated to benefit this section of the country or advance its development.

Jasper J. Pedicord

JASPER J. PEDICORD. Jasper J. Pedicord was not only a witness of tile etitire business development of Decatur Init was also an active participant in its commercial growth and expansion. He came to Decatur in 1838 when the city was but a village, having no railroad communication with other ])arts of the country. Indeed, it was a frontier settlement, but Mr. Pedicord recognized its possibilities and, improving the a(Ivanta!;cs here ofl'crcil, made his way steadily upward until he occupied a i)roniinent position on the plane of artluence. 1 lis labors, too, were of the greatest henefit in the development and progress of the town fcir he was identiiied witli many measures for the general good and his efforts were always resultant factors in improvement.

.Mr. Pcdicord was born in Rockville, Montgomery county, Maryland, on the 8lh of .\'oveml)er. i8\^. and was in his eighty-fourth year when called from this life. He rejjresented one of the old families of his native -state. His parents, Alkn B. and Catherine (VVillett) Pedicord. were ImiiIi natives of ^^aryland and were of Scotch lineage. The father was a farmer by occupation, thus jiroviding for the support of his familv. lie survived his wife for man\- years, passing awav in 1868 at the advanced age of seventv-eight \ears. Three children survived him at that time: Rebecca, Marian and jasjier. InU all have now passed away.

Jasper I'edicord spent the first tifteen \ears of his life in the county of his n.uivity and his early education was obtained in a country school such as was common at that time, while later he continued his studies in the Rockville .Academy. \\'hen a youth of fifteen he entered upon his business career and from tltat time forward made his own wav in the world, earning all that he afterward possessed and enjoyed. His first employment was as a clerk in a store in Washington, D. C, and he remained in that city for five years, going thence to \"icksburg, Mississippi, where he again found em|jloynient in mercantile lines. He had occupied the latter position for two years when in 1838 he sought a home in Illinois, locating in the city of Decatur, where he remained continuously up to the time of his death, more than sixty-one years later. Not afraid to cope with the difficulties of the task incident to the establishment of business enterprises u|)on the frontier he put forth bis best efforts to win success for himself and also to [iromote public progress and prosperity. His first step after reaching Decatur was to become a landholder for be entered one hundred and si.xty acres northwest of the city. .\'ot long after this he became a factor in commercial life by the establishment of a general mercantile store in partnership with Henry Prather. The business conditions of this part of the cmmtrv at that time may be imagined liy the fact that New Orleans was the market for the produce raised in this locality and Mr. Pedicord made fre- Huent trips down the river in flat boats, carrying pork-, flour and corn to the Crescent Citv to I'Nciiange for cash or other commodities. It required nearly tlirec months to make the round trip. .\ little mercantile store of the tirni of I'edicord iS: Prather was opened in a log cabin which stood on the northwest corner of tile old s(iuare. hut -Mr. Pedicord kept apace with the growth of th.e city and development of its interests and its progress, his place of business ever lieing in accord wath its surroundings. In 1849 when his partner wished to go to California I\Ir. Pedicord purchased his interest in the business and afterward entered into jiartnership relations with Hosea J. Armstrong. He, too, after two years went to California and Mr. Pedicord was once more alone in business. In 1853 be joined Lowber Ihirrows in business and this relation was maintained up to the death of our subject. They established a bank under the firm sl\le of Pedicord, Burrows & Company and the institution at once took rank witli the leading financial concerns of this i)ari of the cotnitx'. They carried on a general hanking and exchange business and their ])atronage grew continuously because of the excellent Iiusiness ])oiicy whicli they inaugm-aled .-nid llie straightforward nu'thods they had ever followed in dealing with the general public. The co-operation of .Mr. Pedicord was also given to many other business enterprises. He became largely interested in the Decatur Furniture Coni])any and was elected its president.

He was also a director in tlie Decatur Gas Light & Coke Company and in the Decatur Agricultural Works. His business judgment was sound and reliable and his energy and keen foresight proved important factors in the successful control of many interests here.

On the 30th of July, 1842, Mr. Pedicord was united in marriage to Mrs. Adamson, the widow of John A. Adamson and a daughter of Jacob and Isabella (Watson) Oglesby. Her mother was a sister of Governor Oglesby. Five children were born unto Mr. and ^Irs. Pedicord : Woodford W., Isabelle, Emaline W.. Richard O. and \"alette O., and the family circle remained unbroken until the death of the husband and father.

In his social relations Mr. Pedicord was a Mason, belonging to Macon Lodge, No. 8, A. F. & A. M. He became one of the charter members of Macon Chapter, No. 21, R. A. M., and his life was in consistent harmony with the teachings and tenets of the craft. During the early years of his residence in Decatur he became a charter member of Stapps Chapel, an organization of the Methodist denomination, and later he was for man\' years a member of the Grace ^Methodist Episcopal church, in which he long served as a trustee. This church was organized in one of the big rooms of the bank conducted by the firm of Pedicord, Burrows & Company. To church work he contributed generously and his personal efforts were always felt for good in the development of the church and its work.

In his early manhood he was an advocate of the Democratic principles put forth by Andrew Jackson and he continued to vote with the party until the inauguration of the Civil war. Being a stanch adherent of the Union cause and an opponent of slavery he joined the ranks of the party formed to prevent the further extension of slavery into the north and was allied therewith up to the time of his demise. Political honors and emoluments were never souarht bv him. but his fellow citizens recognized his fitness for office and his fidelity in public affairs and elected him to a number of positions of public trust and responsibility. Twice he served as mayor of the city and his administration of municipal affairs was most creditable and satisfactory to the public, winning him high encomiums. He never ceased to take an active interest in political affairs and his commodious home at No. 226 North Franklin street was long the headquarters for visiting statesmen from Illinois and other sections of the country. In manner he was most genial and cordial and he had a keen sense of humor, appreciating a joke on himself as well as upon some one else. Truly he may be called one of the builders of Decatur for he came to this city when it was but a cluster of log cabins and no business man here contributed more liberally toward enterprises tending to improve and develop the city than did Jasper Pedicord. He died on the 27th of July. 1899, and yet the force of his character is still felt in commercial circles and will be a factor here as long as the institutions which he established are representatives of the business life of this city. Every interest for the social, intellectual and moral welfare of Decatur also elicited his attention and hearty co-operation. He was a man of broad mind, generous heart, kindly and sj'mpathetic and his friends were legion.

William H. Starr

In 1856, Joseph G. Starr removed with his family from Pennsylvania to Decatur, Illinois, and started a harness shop on the southwest corner of the Old Square, now known as Lincoln Square. In 1869 he admitted his son, William H. Starr, to partnership. After having spent a life of industry and usefulness, he died, leaving a widow and three sons. ^^'illiam H., Joseph S. and Harry C.

Past And Present Of Macon Countv

Starr, \vlu> cxlciuk-<l its ticld. In nnkr lu more properly care for increasing business and to retain the prestige of the name of J. G. Starr & Son, the firm was incorporated in iS()i inider the name of J. G. Starr & Son Harness Company, since which time its business has grown with vigor and exi^anded until its field is now virtually limited only by the confines of the United States.

|. (j. Starr was a man who practiced the ])rinciples of integrity and truth. William II. Starr has followed his precepts and has great- Iv increased the business heritage from his father. He has consistently manufactured liarness on the principle of honesty and has truthfully represented them to be just what they are. On these principles he has created and developed a mail order harness business, whose patrons are dealers in every state, from New England to the Rocky Mountains. The retail business is still conducted by Mr. Starr in the same location where it was established by his father forty-seven years ago. In addition to his large trade interests, Mr. Starr is at present vice president of the Citizens National Bank.

William H. Starr is a man of public spirit and has been identified with various industries which have done much to promote the material interests of Decatur and Macon county, lie has also taken an active interest in the moral and social welfare of the community and has done much which contributed to better civil government in city and county affairs. While he is a man of positive character, he is withal afTable and accessible. He is true to his friends and bears in his daily life an exemplification of the truly good citizen.

Douglas D. Hill

DOUGLAS D. HILL. Douglas D. Hill is prominently known in both legal and political circles. It is a notable fact in the world's history that the lawver has been more prominent in public affairs than the representali\es of any other class of business. The reason for this is evident and needs no exi)Ianation for the qualities which fit him for the i)ractice of law also prepare him for duties which lie outside the strict path of his profession. The readiness of resource and keen analytical powers which are essential elements of the successful legal practitioner also go far toward accomplishing a given purpose in other walks of life.

Douglas D. Hill, now successfull\- practicing in Decatur, is a son of John W. and I'rances J. (Barlow) Hill, both of whom were natives of Crawford county, Illinois. The Hill family was established in this state in early pioneer days. In fact, this was a great unbroken territory when John Hill penetrated into the state, arriving in the year 1799. He was the great-grandfather of the subject of this review. William Hill, the grandfather, became a resident of Crawford county, Illinois, in 1801. He married Miss Eve Biggs and amid the scenes of frontier life they reared their family, while in the work of public progress and improvement they took an active and helpful part. John W. Hill was reared to manhood in the old homestead and assisted in the arduous task of developing new land. After arriving at years of maturity he wedded Miss Frances J. Barlow, a daughter of Jesse Barlow, who was also a native of Crawford county, his birth having there occurred on the 1st of February, 1792. He became a physician as well as pioneer farmer and lived a life of great usefulness in thai early comnninity, his efforts proving of nuich benefit to his fellow men in the alleviation of human suffering. He married Miss Jane Marshall, a daughter of Henry and Jane Marshall. The former was a relative of Chief Justice John Marshall, who was so long at the head of the entire judiciary of the United States and whose ancestors were among the first settlers of Virginia. The father of our subject is still living, but the mother passed away in 1897.

Douglas n. Hill was reared in the usual manner of farmer boys. He worked in the fields from the lime of early spring planting mitil after ero])s were harvested in the late autumn. He then found opportunity to attend the district school through the cold months of the winter season when his aid was not needed upon the home fariu. In his nineteenth year he began teaching and followed that profession for two years. He then went to \alparaiso. Indiana, where he attended the Indiana Normal school for a year and later he resumed teaching which he followed, however, merely as an initiative step to other professional labor. He devoted his leisure hours to the reading of law at Robinson. Illinois, and subsequently he continued his legal studies under th.e direction of H. E. Callaher and afterward with the Hon. A. H. Jones, who is now serving as state food commissioner under Governor Yates. When he had largely mastered the principles of jurisprudence and became familiar with everything pertaining thereto he was admitted to the bar in 1886 in Springfield, Illinois, successfully passing an examination before the supreme court. He then formed a partnership with John C. Maxwell, of Robinson. Illinois, which connection was continuefl for six years, when Mr. Hill was elected city attorney and served for two vears. In 1892 he came to Decatur and has since practiced in all of the courts here. He has gained a large and distinctively representative clientage and his capabilities are widely acknowledged by the profession as well as by the public. He prepares his cases with great thoroughness and .skill and in the presentation of a case leaves no doubt as to the correctness of the position. He has won many verdicts favorable to his clients and well merits the large amount of business which is annually given him.

On Christmas day in 1889 Mr. Hill was happily married to Miss Delia Kurtz, of Robinson, Illinois, a daughter of A. E. and Margaret fSponsler) Kurtz. Mrs. Hill was born in Craw-ford county and b\ her marriage has liecome the mother of two children : June .Marie and Lyle Kurtz. In his political views Mr. Hill is a Democrat and in i8y8 he w^as a candidate on that ticket for the position of county judge against William C. Hammer. He takes great interest in local, county and state ])olitics and exercises considerable influence in iiolitical circles. He makes a close study of the ((uestions and issues of the da\' and his laliors in behalf of Democracy have not been without lienelicia! result. In matters of citizenship he is public spirhed and progressive, co-operating along many lines pertaining to the general progress and improvement.

Willi A Ai C. Armstrong

In viewing the mass of mankind in the varied occupations of life, the conclusion is forced upon the observer that in the vast majority of cases men have sought employment not in the line of their peculiar fitness but in those fields where caprice or circumstances have placed them, and thus have ccuuc the large numlier of failures among those who enter commercial and professional circles. Nature certainly intended that Mr. .Armstrong should enter a field of commercial activity for he has displayed marked aptitude in his work in this direction, being able to plan and to perform and determined in the execution of ideas concerning his own business interests. He is now the general manager of the Decatur Coal Company and the success of this enterprise may be attributable in large measure to his labors.

Mr. .Armstrong came to Illinois from Tennessee. He was born near Knoxville, on the 17th of July, 1843, his parents being \M1- liam and Hettie (King) Armstrong, the former a native of Mrginia, and the latter of Tennessee. -After their marriage they settled near what was then the village of Knoxville and the tather became connected with mcrclianclisiiig and also with farming. In the city of his liirili the son spent his hoyhood days and acquired his early education. When quite young he came to Greene county, Illinois, and for a time continued his studies in the schools of Carrollton. lie made his home. however, upon his father's farm until eighteen years of age, hut not wishing to follow the plow as a life work he resolved to connect himself w'ith some industrial or commercial line in the city of Decatur. Accordingly he sought employment here and became a clerk in the store of Roberts Brothers, with whom he remained for seven years, being one of the trusted employes of that house. In fact, such was the confidence reposed in him and the good will extended to him by his employers that at the end of seven years he was admitted to a partnership under the firm style of Roberts & Armstrong and this firm was one of the leading business concerns of Decatur for a number of years. At length, however, Mr.

Armstrong bought out his ]iartner and eight years later he disposed of his interest to E. A. West. On disposing of this enterprise he turned his attention to the coal business and became a partner in the Decatur Coal Company. This coni])any owns three mines, one being in the city, one at its northern boundary and the third near Decatur. In 1883 the Decatur Coal Company was incorporated W'ith O. B. Gorin as secretary and treasurer and Mr. .Armstrong as general manager. The mines arc profitably w-orked. the latest improved machinery is used in the prosecution of this business and there are also good shipping facilities which enable the product to be readily placed upon the market. During the winter months the output of these mines is very extensive and the control of the business devolving upon him, Mr. Armstrong shows that he is a man of resource in business affairs, of keen insight into situations and of strong determination in carrying forward to successful completion whatever he undertakes.

In 1873 Mr. .\rnislrong was united in marriage to Miss Ida (iorin, a sister of his partner, n. B. Gorin. They now have four children : William J., who is with his father in the coal office: Ida E., the wife of L. F. I"imk, of Bloomington, Illinois;. Florence, who is now a student in an eastern college; and Eleanor, at home. In Masonic circles Mr. Armstrong is ])rominent and popular and is now a worthy exemplar of Ionic Lodge, Xo. 312. .\. ]'. & .\. M,: Macon Chapter, \'o. 21, R. A. M.: and lieaumanoir Commandery, X. 9, K. T. He has gained a distinguished position in connection with the important industries of the county and his efforts have been so discerningly directed along well defined lines of labor that he has accomplished the most desirable results. A man of distinct and forceful individuality, of broad mentality and mature judgment, he has left and is leaving his impress upon the industrial W'orld. For twenty years he has been an imjjortant factor in the development of the natural resources of this portion of the state and his efforts have been of value in promoting the general welfare and jirosperity nf the citv in which he makes his home.

Sit.Lr-Ax Burgess

SIT.LR-AX BURGESS. Sullivan llurgess was born Jinie 6, 1828, in Concord, Massachusetts, and was educated in the common schools of his native town. Having a taste and desire to learn mathematics he made rapid progress with that study, graduating at the head of his class at the age of sixteen years. When eighteen years of a.gc he left his home in Concord and went to Wilkesbarre. and accepted a position as a clerk in the dry goods house of his brotherin-law. Two years later he was offered an opportunity to join an engineering corps on the \'ermont Central Railroad, which he eagerly embraced, it being more suited to his inclinations, the line being from \\^indsor.

\'ermont, to IJurlington on Lake Champlain. That engagement being completed he then went to Canada to engage in the construction of a railroad from Lake Champlain to the St. Lawrence river opposite Montreal, and assisted in the preliminary survey for the great Victoria bridge at that point. In the fall of 1852 he left Canada for Illinois, to engage as assistant engineer on the Wabash Railroad and located the line between Springfield and Decatur during that fall and winter. He remained on this portion of the road during its construction, as resident engineer, making his headquarters at Decatur, and in the spring of 1854 he extended the survey of the Wabash east from Decatur to Tolono. After the completion of the extension to Tolono he entered into partnership with the late C. A. Tuttle in 1856, as land agents and real estate dealers in Decatur, their office fronting Lincoln Square in the space now occupied by Merchant street. That year the city of Decatur was organized and he was appointed city engineer, which office he has occupied at different intervals up to the present. Mr. Burgess was married to Miss Sarah Jane Strobeck, of Potsdam, North Carolina, in 1857.

In April, 1861, he was engaged on the survey of a railroad from Decatur to Champaign, but the breaking out of the Rebellion suspended all railroad building. He then purchased an interest in the Stafford cultivator and in the fall of 1863, the cultivator having taken the first premium at the State Fair held in Decatur that year, he was largely instrumental in inducing parties to come from Pekin to Decatur and erect the shop (now owned by Chambers, Bering and Ouinlan) for the purpose of manufacturing the Stafford cultivator. He was one of the founders of the First National Bank and a member of the first board of directors. In 1867 Tuttle & Burgess commenced the survev of Decatur & East St. Louis railroad, now St. Louis division of the Vv'abash road and located the line the entire length and liad charsje of its construction from Decatur to Taylorville. After the completion of that road he made a survey in the spring of 1870 from Decatur to Chicago, nearh' an air line, also re-surveyed the same line in spring of 1871. The building of this road was defeated by the intrigue and treachery of its false friends. He was also engaged in the winter of 1 870 and 1871 with the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy in the extension of their lines west of Mendota. In the fall of 1873 ^^ went to Kansas City and located a line of railroad east through Independence in the direction of Booneville, Missouri, but the financial panic which swept the country in that year indefinitely postponed all railroad operations.

In the spring of 1874 Mr. Burgess was elected city engineer and superintendent of water works at Decatur, which position he occupied vtntil 1880. In 1881 he located the line of road from Springfield to Mississippi river, by way of Jerseyville and remained on that line until completed. He made a survey in 1883 and 1884 for Wabash Railroad Company from Danville to the Kankakee river by way of Oilman and Custer Park, also a survey the same winter from a i^oint a few miles north of Jersey Landing down the left bank to the .Mississippi river down to Alton, the most difficult survey he ever made. The road has since been built on the same line he ran. In the fall of 1884 he visited California for the benefit of his health, going by way of the Northern Pacific Railroad to Portland, from thence down the Columbia river to San Francisco, spending two months in the vicinity of San Jose. He was so well pleased with the country there, he came back with the intention of moving there as soon as he could make arrangements to do so. In the spring of 1887 he was engaged with the Jacksonville & Southeastern Railroad Company in the extension of their line from Centralia to Mount Vernon. His health failing him, he accepted the appointment of city engineer in the summer of 1887, which position he occupied until l8y7. Mr. lUiri^css was uiarrii.'d ihc second time to Sarah jane Brown of Abington, Massacluisetts, on October 30, i860. Two children were born to them, a daughter, now Mrs. J. R. 1 huvorih. of Des Moines, Iowa, and a son, Silas X. who is in California, near Los Angeles.

For almost a half century Judge Ihunnier made his home in Decatiu' and the eminent place which he held in the iniblic regard is indicatctl l.iy the l;iet thai he was never a candidate for any ofiice to which he was not elected and yet he held many positions of public trust and for eight years was judge of Macon county. He won prominence as a member of the bar and stood as a stanch defender of law and order and the characteristics of his manhood were marked. He gave unfaltering allegiance to any cause which he believed to be right and was a co-operant factor in many measures for the general good. He desired strongly to see marked advancement made by the state along material, intellectual and moral lines and as a citizen was most publie-spiritetl and progressive.

judge Hammer was a native of Kentucky, his liirlh having occurred in the village of Winehesler. Clark county, on the 2d of November. 1817. His ])arents were Frederick and I'".li/'.;i!ieth (\\'ebh) i lanimer. His paternal grandfather, John ] lammer, was an early settler of New Jersey and married a Miss Warner, who was also born in that state. Subsequently they removed to Kentucky and were numbered among its pioneer settlers. Frederick Hammer was born in New Jersey in 1794 and with his parents went to the Blue Grass state, whence in 1827, following his marriage, he removed to Illinois, settling in Christian county, where he and his wife spent their remaining days.

being a private intor. W ilh his parents he came to Illinois, the journey being made in a wagon ilrawn by o.x teams. The family home was established in Christian count) and later judge Hammer engaged in teaching school in that and in Shelby counties, following the profession with marked success for ten years. He luul the aliilily to impart clearly and readily to others the knowletlge that he had gained and his work as an instructor was most gratifying to the p;Urons of the schools with which he was comiecteil. During the summer months his attention was given to farm work.

In December, 1854, he arrived in Decatur and continued to make his home in this city up to the time of his ileath, covering almost a half century. 1 lere he was first identified with commercial pursuits, forming a partnership with R. A. Newell under the firm name of Newell & Hammer. They established a grocery store which they conducted for eight years and also the Judge was later associated with financial circles of the city as a ])rivate hanker, belonging to the firm of Smith, Hammer & Company. They maintained that bank for eight years, Iml tliroiij^h nnich of his active life Judge Hammer was in public office and his career as an official was one most cominenilabk. lie never faltered in the f;iithful ])erformance of duty, but conscientiously put forth every effort for the public welfare and over the record of his official career there falls no shadow of wrong. 1 le was first called to oftice in 1843, when he was elected constable in Christian county, acting in that capacity for three years. JM-om 1846 until 1854 he was sheriff of the same county and in 185O, following his removal to Decatur, he was elected justice of the peace of this city and thus served until i860. In the latter year he was chosen circuit clerk of Macon county and filled the office for eight years, while from 1865 until 1874 he was a member of and i)resident of the board of education. In i86y he was elected mayor of the city and his administration, covering two years, proved most acceptable to his fellow citizens, because of its business-like character. He was not only practical but also progressive and yet he favored no needless expenditure of money, managing the affairs of the city as he did his personal interests, with the purpose of obtaining maximum result at minimum cost. In 1888 he was again chosen justice of the peace in Decatur and occupied that position until 1894, when he was elected county judge. For eight years lie served upon the bench and his decisions were strictly fair and impartial. He was not a lawyer and yet he gained a broad and comprehensive knowledge of the principles of the law in the years of hi.s former connection with justice courts and while serving in other offices. A prominent attorney of ^lacon county bar said he never knew of any court in which so few of the decisions were reversed by higher tribunals than in ]Macon county vmder the administration of Judge Hammer. He brought to the bench an innate sense of justice and love of the right. His mind was strong and well balanced and his marked intellectuality enabled him to thoroughly understand a situation and to bring to bear upon the point in litigation the law applicable thereto. At the time of his retirement from office on the 1st of December, 1902. he was perhaps one of the oldest jurists in years in the state.

In 1853 Judge Hammer had been imited in marriage to Aliss Isabell M. East, of Taylorville. also a daughter of Thomas and Priscilla East. Eight children have been born of this union, of whom four are living, namely : \\'iniam .A., who is paying teller in the Millikin National Bank: Harold C, of Decatur: Ruth, the wife of J. Elmer Groves of this city: and Eva. the wife of J. H. Clark, a resident of LaPayette, Indiana.

The Judge was a prominent Mason, having become a member of the order in 1856 and at the time of his death he held membership in Macon Lodge, No. 8. A. F. & A. M. and also in Macon Chapter and Beaumanoir Conimandery. He likewise belonged to the Odd Fellows' lodge in this city. He was member of the first .school board of Decatur and was ever active in educational work, putting forth every effort in his power to advance the standard of the schools and render the course of instruction more effective as a preparation for life's practical and responsible duties. -\fter his retirement from office he enjoyed a well earned rest up to the time of his death, which occurred May 20. 1903. His remains were interred with the ceremonies of the Masonic fraternity and deep and sincere sorrow was manifested throughout the city, for Judge Hammer was held in the highest regard by all who knew him. His official service was characterized by unfaltering fidelity and thus he received the commendation of the opposition party as well as the supporters of the Republican party. His honorable life record gained him high encomiums and he left the impress of his individuality for good upon Decatur and ^lacon countv.

Charles C. Randolph

Charles C. Randolph is one of the large landowners of Macon county and is the senior member of the firm of C. C. & N. W. Randolph, dealers in city and farm property in Decatur. They also loan money and handle large amounts of land in Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas.

Throughout his entire life Charles C. Randolph has been a resident of Illinois and has alwa\s been imbued with the progressive spirit which has been the dominant factor in the upbuilding and development of this state. His birth occurred in Logan county near Lincoln, the family home being on a farm in that locality. His father, John Randolph, was a native of \'irginia and came to Illinois m pioneer times, settling in this state in 1829. Here he became an e.xtensive landowner, entering thousands of acres from the goveninient, a part of wliicli he improved. I le was an iiilclhgcnt and progressive agriculturist, following advanced methods of farming and as a worthy pioneer he well deserves mention in the annals of the state because of the helpful ])art which he took in reclaiming the district for the purposes of civilization. He had a wide acquaintance and was a man imi\ersally respected for his many excellent trails of character. His business integrity stood as one of the strongest elements in his career and made him well worthy of the trust imposed in him. His death occurred in Logan county about 1900. but his widow is living on the homestead there. She bore the maiden name of Wafgaret Wallace and w-as a native of Kentucky. \]y her marriage she had several children, including DeW'itt. Charles C. and .Martin W.

As a farm boy Charles C. Kandnlph was reared. He obtained a good common-school education and assisted in the cultivation of the fields on the old home ])lace until he attained his majority, wlun he l)egan farming and stock-dealing on his own account. He made a specialty of the raising of hogs and cattle and annually his sales brought to him a very desirable financial return. As his capital increased he made judicious investments from time to time and is now the possessor of a very extensive and valuable farm, aggregating twelve hundred acres of rich land under a high, state of cultivation. . Most of this is al-so imderlaid with a good vein of coal and ])art of the land is situated in Logan county and the remainder in Macon coimty. Mr. Randolph continued to reside upon his farm until i8y6, when he took up his abode in Decatur, where he opened an office and began dealing in real estate and also in loaning money. He handles not only city and farm property in this locality, but also deals in southern and western lands. He has thoroughly informed himself concerning realty values here and is thus enabled to make judicious investmeiUs and profitable sales. In 1902 Jie associated himself with his brother X. W. imder the firm name of C. C. & \. W . Randolph. He rents his farm lands in Logan and Macon counties so that he has opportunity to devote much time to his real estate operations both here and in the south.

Jn August, 1897, Mr. Randolph was joined in wedlock to Miss Soi)liia llutchinson, of this ciiunty, a daughter of Jesse Hutchinson. Mr. Randolph is a man to whom^the most envious caimot grudge his success, so well has he earned it. He is kind in manner anil approachable and every comer has a claim upon his courteous attention. There has been nothing sensational in his career, every step has been thoughtfully and deliberately made and every advance has been at the cost of earnest labor. He stands to-day in his mature years a strong man - strong in the consciousness of a well spent life, strong to plan and perform, strong in his honor and his good name and a worthy exam])le for young men to pattern after.

A. J. Stoner. M. D.

A. J. STONER. M. D. In the death of the honored subject of this memoir not only Decatur but the I'rairie state as well hist one of her best and most valued citizens - a man sincere, upright, just and conscientious in word and deed. His life was a btiSN' and useful one and extensive professional ]jursiiiis claimed his attention, yet his career was not that of one intent on monev-making or of self-aggrandizement, hut was ever dominated by the noble desire to aid and uplift his fellow men and to promote the welfare of city, state and nation. .\ complete record of what he accomplished for the city, of the good deeds he performed and of the kindly sympathy which he invariably extended to others could not be compiled, for he was modest and unostentatious in all his acts, guided not by the hope of recogni-

Dr. Stoner was born on the 2d of August, 1824, in Cincinnati, Ohio, and when but a boy came to Illinois. Here he lived in the family of Dr. Sutphan, of Perry, who was one of the pioneer physicians of the state and it was while surrounded with the influences of that home that Dr. Stoner became deeply interested in the science of medicine. Forming a determination to make its practice his life work while yet a youth he studied in the office and under the direction of his friend and benefactor. Dr. Sutphan. Subsequently he entered the Jefferson Medical College of Philadelphia. Pennsylvania, in which he was graduated and then became a student in the College of JNIedicine in St. Louis, Missouri, in which he also completed the course.

Dr. Stoner entered upon his professional career in Chambersbiirg, Illinois, where he opened an office and soon gained some patrons. Afterward, however, he removed to Mount Sterling, Illinois, where he remained until the close of the Civil war, when he severed his business relations there and removed to Decatur, his remaining days being passed in this city. In 1866 he established a drug store at the corner of South Park and State streets. It was long one of the old land marks in the business district of Decatur and a liberal patronage was continually accorded to its proprietor who was widely and prominently known in business circles. His methods commended him to the public confidence and he won favor by reason of his genial nature and obliging disposition. For a number of years the management of the drug business was intrusted to the late Captain W. J. Brown. For many years Dr. Stoner continued in the active practice of his chosen calling and kept in touch with the advancement made in the science of medicine. He studied long and carried his researches far and wide into the fields of medical knowledge so that his efforts were most effectiveand helpful in the alleviation of human suffering. In many a household he was known as the loved family physician and after he retired from the more active practice of his calling he was accorded a large office and consultation practice. At one time his patronage extended through central Illinois and it is probable that no physician in Decatur was ever more widely known. The weather was never too inclement for him to respond to the call of the sick and suffering and he oftentimes took long rides to visit patients when he knew that no pecuniary reward could be expected. He continued as owner of the drug store until abotit five years prior to his death, when he retired and was succeeded by his son. Dr. Fred Stoner.

The Doctor was a man of strong, forceful spirit, of great benevolence and of kindliness. He contributed to various enterprises of a charitable character and yet he never sought the praise of his fellow men or their recognition. He gave freely and without display. In l.ioth his professional and business career he was very successful and the poor and needy shared generously with him of his means. He was a man of untiring energy and zeal and his long life which ended November 13, 1901, was without a blemish, for his character was always honorable and upright, and thus his memory is cherished by all who knew him.

Dr. Fred Stoner. a son of Dr. A. J. Stoner, was educated in the pulilic schools of Decatur. He afterward became manager of the drug store, which was conducted under the firm style of A. J. Stoner & Son from 1887 until 1890. His professional knowledge was gained as a student in Rush Medical College of Chicago and in the University of Nashville, Tennessee, spending the years between 1890 and i8()6 as a student in these institutions. He then practiced medicine in Decatur and also managed the drug store until

Tile business career is one which illustrates the power of industry and perseverance in the active affairs of life. Every step that he has made has been premeditated and then sanctioned by mature judgment; it has contributed its share to the sum of prosperitv which has attended his efforts as a coal dealer.

Mr. Crahb was born in Springfield, Illinois, on the 22d of January, 1869, and comes of Scotch-Irish ancestry. His ancestors were among the earliest settlers of the city of Springfield. His great-grandfather, Elijah Isle, was one of the pioneers of the capital city, living there when it was but a mere hamlet and taking an active part in its development and progress. He gave the land upon which the Wabash Railroad shops were built and also gave the right of way to the Chicago & Alton Railroad. He was thus closely connected with the industrial development of the city. Janius D. Crabb, the father of our subject, was a native of Ohio and came thence to Illinois, establishing his home in Litchfield when seventeen years of age. About the time of the close of the Civil war he began operating coal mines and for many years was connected with the Litchfield Mining Company, doing an important work in the development of the coal resources of the state. He was united in marriage to Miss Sallie Loose, also a native of Ohio and a daughter of Jacob Loose, one of the oldest residents of Springfield, who in an early day was the owner of the land upon which the governor's mansion now stands.

Frank A. Crabb. whose name introduces this record, obtained his early education in the ward schools of St. Louis and afterward attended the hi"h school in which he was graduated with the class of 1890. Later he pursued a three jears' course in Smith's Academy and then entered upon his business career in the employ of the Staunton Coal Company at Staunton, Illinois, being assigned to duty in the boiler-room, where he remained for three years dating from 1897. He equip])ed the electric elevator plant for use and afterward passed an examination whereh\- he won a certificate as a hoisting engineer. He then had charge of the Stone Coal Company at St. Louis as its superintendent, acting in that capacity until the plant was sold. His father then removed to Litchfield, Illinois, while the son came to Decatur, arriving in this city on the 13th of February, 1901. He then purchased the business of the Nives & Koons Coal Company, which he has since conducted on his own account. He does a large retail business in the sale of anthracite and cannel coal, Indiana block coke and also bituminous coal. He is agent for the Springfield Coal Company and also the Litchfield Power Company and through his business connections has become an important factor in the development of the coal resources of the state, his work being of an important character that contributes not alone to his prosperity, but also to the advancement of business activity in this section of the state. Mr. Crabb is also the owner of the Glen Echo Stock farm, which is situated one mile north of Decatur and is devoted to the breeding and raising of fine horses.

In 1900 Mr. Crabb was united in marriage to Miss Blanche Davis, a daughter of David and Blanche (Keating) Davis. They now have one daughter, Sallie Margaret. Mr. Crabb is quite prominent socially and belongs to the Benevolent. Protective Order of Elks, to W. C. Roe Camp, No. 7201, M. W. A., and to the Decatur and Country Clubs. In his political views he is a Republican. A young man of unusual business ability, of progressive ideas and unfaltering energy, he has gained for himself a i)rominent place in the business world and has also thruugh his genial manner and unfailing courtesy become a popular citizen of Decatur and one who has gained many friends.

Hexry L. Archer

Since 1862 Henry L. Archer has been a resident of Decatur and for over a third of a century he was identified with the business interests of the city, but is now living a retired life in his pleasant home at 1021 East Cantrell street. -He was born in Oldham county. Kentucky, on the 20th of February, 1845. a son of Thomas L. and Amelia Archer, both of whom were natives of the Blue Grass .state, where they continued to reside until their removal to Decatur in 1862. Owing to ill health the father lived retired during his stay here and after going to Moultrie county, Illinois, in 1870. He died in that county while his wife passed away in Chicago. They were the parents of four children who are still living, namely : Henry L. ; Isaac, who is employed in the Union Iron Works of Decatur ; Samuel, a farmer of Edgar county, Illinois ; and Mrs. C. F. Reynolds, who is living in Chicago.

Henry L. Archer pursued his education in the public schools of his native state. In 1856, at the age of eleven years, he first came to Illinois, and settled in Moultrie county, where he worked at odd jobs for two years. At the end of that time he returned to Kentucky and made his home with his parents until the removal of the family to Decatur in 1862. Here his father and brother-in-law purchased a saloon, which our subject assisted in carrying on until about the close of the Civil war, when he enlisted on the 17th of February, 1865, as orderlv sergeant in Company I, One Hundred and Fiftieth Illinois \'olunteer Infantry, under Captain Walter Barnes and Colonel Keener. The company was in no engagements as the fighting was all ahead of them. Thev went first to Louisville. Kentucky, ilicn on to .\ashville, Tennessee, Savannah and .\tlanta, Georgia. At the last named place Mr. .Archer was discharged on the i6th of January, 1866. Returning to Decatur he purchased a dray line and engaged in the dray and transfer business for several years or until i8(j6. During that year he purchased the Brunswick Hotel saloon, which he conducted for eighteen months and then sold otit in 1898 on account of ill health and has since lived retired, having in the meantime accumulated sufficient capital to enable him to lay aside all business cares and spend the remainder of his life in ease and quiet.

On the 30th of January, 1870, Mr. Archer married Miss Aurella Chilcote, of this county. Her father, Robert Chilcote, was an early settler of Macon county, and is now living retired in Decatur. Mr. and Mrs. Archer have one child. Bonnie Hazel. The wife and mother is a member of the Christian church of Decatur and is a most estimable lady. Fraternally Mr. Archer is connected with the Grand Arm\- Post of Decatur, and politically is identified with the Republican party. He has never cared for official honors but has always taken a deep interest in public affairs and is as true to his duties of citizenship in days of peace as in time of war. He is widely and favorably known and in the city where he has made his home for over forty years he has a host of warm friends who esteem him highly.

Eckhardt C. Stein

ECKHARDT C. STEIN. Eckhardt C. Stein, the president and manager of the Decatur Model Laundry Company, was born in Waterloo, Waterloo county, Ontario. October 4. 1858, and is a son of Henry and Christine (Wegfahrt) Stein, who were natives of Germany. The father was a bricklayer by trade and he and his wife are now residing in Berlin, Ontario.

lU-nry Stein left the fatlierland when a yunng man, althoutjh his i)arents reniaineil in Germany. Crossin.t;' the .\tlantic to the new worUl he took np his abode in Canada, wliere he lias since remained. L'nto him and his wife have been born five children, of whom Eckhardt C. is the eklest. The nthers are Christian, William, ^lartha, and Annie, deceased.