Decatur Township (part 25 of 46)

In taking up the personal history of Eckhardt C. Stein we present to our readers the life record of one who is well kndwn in Decatur, because of his activity and honorable business interests here. Having acquired bis education in {hv ])ul)lic schools of his native country he started out in life on his own account when twenty-one years of age. first being employed as a ))ainter by the firm of Hoffman & Company, furniture dealers and manufacturers of lierlin. ( )ntario. He continued with thai Imuse for three and a half years and then entered the employ of the firm of Reiner & Stein, millers of Wellesly. Ontario, with whom he was associated for six years. The junior partner in this enterprise was Eckhardt Stein, an uncle of our subject. On severing bis connection with that house Mr. Stein of this review was employed by the Commercial Milling Company of Detroit, Michigan, for a year, after which he returned to the employ of Reiner & Stein, with whom he continued for a number of years longer. Desiring to try his fortune in the northwest, however, he removed to Spokane Falls, Washington, and s])ent one year in the Echo Mills of that place. In i88(; he came to Illinois, locating in Decatur, where he has since made his home. Here he was first employed in the Decatur h'urniture I'actory, for rjne \ear, and then became associated with W. Lewis in the feed business under the firm name of Lewis & .Stein. This relationship was mainlaint-d for one vear. when together with W M. lirookshier he purchased the Decatur Steam Laundry. That partnership was maintained for a few months.

after which .Mr. liruokshier sold his interest to Harry E. Ehrman, who was Mr. Stein's partner for a time, but the latter sold out. to Mr. IChrman. He afterward continued as manager of the plant for a while. 1 le then hiiughi a launtlry with John H. Rainey as :in associate jwrtner and conducted this business for three and a half years. F. H. Whitmer. who about this time purchased the Decatur Steam Laundry, entered into business relations with Mr. Stein and Rainey and the two plants were consolidated under the name of the Decatur Model Laundry Company in 1898. The company was composed of Mr. Stein. 1". II. Whitmer and John H. Rainey, the suliject of this review- being the president and manager, which positions he has ever most acceptably filled since 1899. His present partners in the enterprise arc Lulu Whitmer, who IS the vice president of the company, while I'rank II. Whitiuer is the secretary and treasurer.

In 1887 Mr. .Stein was miited in marriage to Miss Magdelena I'retus, who resided near .Vrgcnta in this county. The\- have four children: Martin, Emelie. I'.ertha and Lauda. Canada has furnished to the I'nited States many bright, enter])rising voung men who have left that country to enter the business circles of the Republic with its more l)rogressive methods, livelier competition and advancement more quickly secured, .\mong this number is Mr. Stein. He sought wider fields in which to give full scoj^e to his ambition and his activity - his dominant qualities, lie found the npportunities he sought in the freedom and appreciation of the growing middle jiortion of the United States. Though horn across the bonier he is thoroughly American in thought and feeling and is patriotic and sincere in his love for the stars and strii)es.

James E. Osborne

position of einiiiencc is he who can see and utilize the opportunities that surround his path. The essential conditions of human life are ever the same, the surroundings of individuals differ but slightly; and, when one man passes another on the highway to reach the goal of prosperity before others who perhaps started out before him, it is because he has the power to use advantages which probably encompass the whole human race.

To-day among the prominent men of the entire west stands James E. Osborne, and his name at once brings to mind one of the important industries of the country - the development of the oil resources. Mr. Osborne was born at Greens Fork, Wayne county, Indiana, on the 7th of September, i860, and is a son of Cyrus and Hannah A. (Murphy) Osborne. The paternal grandfather was Almire Osborne, a native of New York, while the maternal grandfather of our subject was born in Ohio, whence he removed to Indiana, spending his last days in West Lebanon, that state. Cyrus Osborne was born in New York and became a stockdealer of Indiana, where he carried on business for a time, later removing to Decatur to make his home with his son, James E. He died January 28, 1903, at the age of seventy-three years and his widow, now surviving, is a member of the family of our subject. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Cyrus Osborne were born eight children, of whom James E. Osborne was the sixth in order of birth. Those now living are M. L., a resident of Indianapolis ; Mary, the wife of W. P. Kanode; and Zora, the wife of E. F. Pannell.

The fourth surviving member of the family is Mr. Osborne, whose name introduces this record. He was reared upon the home farm and attended the public schools. In his early youth he learned telegraphy, but not finding that a congenial occupation he came to Decatur in October, 1890, and here accepted a position as a clerk in the sheriff's office. He was afterward employed in a clerical capacity in the office of the recorder and in 1 89 1 he entered the employ of the Pacific E.xpress Company. He has since been agent for the company in Decatur and has assumed other responsibilities at various points for the company. Mr. Osborne, however, has made his wealth through speculation. He began dealing in real estate and, finding that it pro\ed profitable, he laid out an addition to Decatur in which he realized five thousand dollars, this forming the nucleus of his present extensive capital. Believing that he might profit by operations in Chicago real estate he also began purchasing property there and now enjoys a good income from two or three flat buildings in that city, together with dozens of properties in Decatur. When Te.xas oil began attracting the attention of the public Mr. Osborne was informed by a friend that if he would come to the Lone Star state he might have the opportunity of a lifetime there. Proceeding southward he investigated the condition of the oil fields and at length purchased more than two thousand acres of land just across the Louisiana line from the Beaumont field, on what is known as the Jennings property. He purchased a portion of this at a very low figure, but for about seven acres he paid two thousand dollars per acre. Mr. Osborne and his friends then organized a company, our subject being the prime mover in the establishment of what is now the Southern Oil Company, of Jennings, Louisiana. This was formed in 1901. E. F. Rawson is president of the company with Mr. Osborne as president of the board of directors and the business manager of the enterprise. Contracts for four wells were let, but the first proved "dry" and the second was not a success, but the third known as the Jennings Gusher has won fame for the Southern Company and brought wealth to its members. Ninety thousand barrels of oil have flowed from the Jennings well No. 3, in a test run of one day and the first output ol the company was seventy-five thousand bar- rels per day. There are now five wells in operation, and the quality of oil produced is better than that secured from the Beaumont field. Mr. Osborne, who retains some of his original land holdings, was offered forty thousand dollars an acre for four acres within a short distance of the gusher. He refused to sell, however, although by proper manipulation he might have realized one hundred thousand dollars from a few acres of ground. He is also the originator of the Northern Oil Company in the same field. This was organized in 1902 and has an output from four wells of twenty-four hundred barrels of oil per day. He -also organized the Columbia Oil Company and is now one of the best known oil men, operating in Texas and Louisiana fields. 1 fc has, however, not confined liis attention entirely to this one line, but has made judicious investments in other properties. Tie is the president of the Star Gold Mining Company at Cripple Creek, Colorado, which was organized in 1903. Recently he lias made a purchase of forty-three acres of land at Yellville, Arkansas, and has laid it out into lots, which is known as the Osborne addition to that city. He has unusual powers as a business manager of tact and discrimination. The successful speculator is not he who places his money carelessly in any investment which on the face seems to promise good returns, but he who studies closely the situations, keeps in touch with the progress and thoroughly understands the investments which he makes. Such a man is Mr. Osborne and his success therefore is richly merited .and has been capably won.

Samuel T. Webb

SAMUEL T. WEBB. Samuel T. Webb became a resident of Macon county in 1873 and continued to reside within its borders until his life's labors were ended in death. The salient features in his career and his strong traits of character were such as made him a leading and highly^ respected citizen of his community and it was therefore with the deepest regret that his many friends learned of his demise. He was a native of Fairfield county, Ohio, born on the 27th of July, 1834, his parents being Garrett and Verlinda ( llright) Webb, both of whom were natives of Ohio. His father engaged in farming in Fairfield county during the greater part of his life and both he and his wife passed away there.

Samuel T. Webb was the only one of the family that ever came to Macon county. He pursued his education in the common schools of hi.s native county and was reared on the old family homestead, early gaining accurate knowledge of farming methods and of agricultural life in all of its departments. He was married in Fairfield county, Ohio, to Miss Harriet Wilson, whose birth occurred in Fairfield county on the 16th of ATarch, 1837, and who was a daughter of David and Elizabeth (Bobst) Wilson, the former a native of Virginia and the latter of Philadelphia. Removing to Fairfield county, Ohio, her father was there engaged in farming until the outbreak of the Civil war, when he removed to Morgan county, Missouri, there making his home for a few years. He afterward lived with his children until he was called to his final rest. Throughout his active business career his attention was devoted to agricultural pursuits. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Webb was blessed with a family of ten children, of whom six are now living. Clinton and Crcighton were twins and the former now resides in the village of Macon, Illinois, where he is engaged in general merchandise and in the drug business, being a prominent and enterprising man of that town. Creighton is a salesman in the store of James W. Race, of Decatur. Francis is a traveling salesman, also residing in Decatur. Charles vet makes his home in this city.

Burton is employed by the firm of Linn & Scriig:gs of Decatur. Clara May is at home with her niolher. Those who have passed away are Robert, James, Mary, Lillian and one that died in infancy.

At the time of his marriage Samuel T. Webb took up his abode upon a farm in Fairfield county, Ohio, where he resided until 1873, when he removed to the middle west, establishing his home in Macon county, Illinois. Here he leased a farm situated about two and a half miles east of the village of Macon in Macon township and' at once began its improvement and cultivation. He was engaged in general farming there for several years, but when his health became impaired he removed to the village of Macon, where he resided until his death. He passed away May 30, 1889, at the age of fifty-five years, respected by all who knew him. His widow later removed to Decatur and purchased her present home at Xo. 274 West Wood street, where she and her daughter now reside. Mr. \\'ebb was a ver}' successful farmer careful in all his business undertakings, systematic in his work and energetic and enterprising. As the years passed by he harvested good crops and found a ready sale iipim tlie market for his products, thus annually adding to his income. Both he and his wife were Methodists in religious faith and she now holds membership in the First ivlethodist Episcopal church in Decatur. In his political views he was an earnest Republican, but never sought or held office, preferring to give his time and attention to his business affairs. In everything relating to the general welfare he was progressive and took a deep interest in movements for the public good. His life was (|uictly passed and yet his history contains many lessons that arc worthy of emulation for he was ever upright and honorable and lived at peace with his fellow men.

Andrew J. Dlxston

.\ndrew J. Dunston was born April 9, 1852, in Cincinnati, Ohio, the third in a family of twelve children, nine of whom are now living. His father, George Dunston, was of English lineage, and was born on the 2d of March, 1818, in Lincolnshire, England. He was a youth of twelve years when, in 1830, he crossed the Atlantic to the new world, landing in Canada. He afterward made his home in [Michigan, subsequently lived in Ohio and in 1856 became a resident of Illinois. By occupation he was a farmer, following that vocation throughout his business career. He was quite successful as an agriculturist. In 1869 he removed to Carleton, Missouri, where he spent his remaining days, his death there occurring June 7, 1889, while his wife died on the 30th of July. 1874. He wedded Mary Jane Grimes, who was of Irish extraction, and they became the parents of the following named : Jacob and Harriet, now deceased ; Andrew J . ; Emily ; Frank ; Horace Greeley ; Fannie ; George ; Harvey ; Laura ; Olive ; and Sarah, who has likewise passed away.

Aftdrew J. Dunston of this review obtained his early education in one of the primitive log schoolhouses of Illinois known as the old Green school, in .\dams county, this state. He put aside his text books at the age of fifteen years and began earning his own living by working as a farm hand, in which capacity he was employed for two years. At the age of nineteen he was apprenticed to the trade of horse-shoeing under Edward Cassiday, of Ouincv, Illinois, servmg for a term of three years. In 1872 he came t(.) Macdu county, settling in Decatur, where he worked for others for two years and then in 1874 opened a shop of his own on North Jackson street. In 1882 he bought a lot and built a shop at Xo. 336 East Prairie street, where he continued in business until 1892, when he removed to 136 South Franklin street, building there his present shop. Here he has remained continuouslv since and he is the only shoer of race horses in Decatur. He has followed this branch of the business since 1874 and has received a hberal patronage, doing this important work in a most capable manner.

On the 26th of July, 1876. in St. Louis, Missouri, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Dunston and Miss Martha Crowfoot, a native of South Bend, Indiana. They have two children : (ieorge W. and Frank G. The former married Helen Schroeder, a native of Decatur, and they have a daughter, Sarah Jane Dunston. George Dunston holds a responsible business position in connection with the Standard Oil Company. He possesses superior musical talent and ability, having studied under Francis Fi.sher Powers and George Ellis-Holmes and was graduated with Signor Marescalchi. He is a graduate of the high school of Decatur and other institutions and is a gentleman of scholarly attainments. He is also regarded as one of the finest vocalists in Decatur, and his musical talent renders him a favorite in social circles, where he contributes much to the general enjoyment. The younger son is a partner of his father, carrying on business under the firm style of A. J. Dunston & Son. He married Miss Myrtle Hogue, August 27, 1903, of Mattoon, Illinois.

Mr. Dunston of this review owns a ]jleasant residence at No. 304 East Wood street. In politics he is- independent and has never sought or desired office, llis entire attention has been given to his business affairs and his capability in the line of his pursuit has resulted in bringing to him a very desirable competence.

John W. Fletcher

JOHN W. FLETCHER. Tohn W. Fletcher, who is engaged in tlie dairy business, was born in Giristian county, Illinois, near the town of McmiU Auburn, Decemlier 2. 1847, his parents being Griffin T. and Martha (Churchill) Fletcher. His paternal grandfather was James I'ktcher. a nalive of Kcntuck\-, and his last days were spent in Decatur. Griffin T. I'lelcher was i)orn in Mount Sterling, Kentucky, and at an earlv period in the develoi)nient and improvement of Illinois came lo ihis stale. He enteretl one huntlred and si.xty acres of land from the government in Christian county in 1831 and there improved a farm, ujion which he made his home until 1855. In that year he removed to Sangamon county, Illinois, where he becatne the owner of l\)ur hundred acres of land, which he cultivated successfully until 1 87 J. 1 hat year witnessed his arrival in Decatur township, Macon county, Illinois, where he spent his remaining days. While at Mount .\uburn, in company with A. D. Northcutt, he ])urcliascd and sold stock, both cattle and hogs, driving thcni in large ntnnbers lo the St. Louis market. This was at an early day before the advent of the railroads and Abraham Lincoln assisted these gentlemen in <lriving their slockon three different trii)s. In his farming and stock-dealing operations .\lr. l-'letcher became very jirosperous. securing a good jM-ofit as the result of his investmenls and labors. In his political affairs he was an earnest Democrat and he belonged to the .Masonic fraternity. He was also a member of the Christian church in which he took a very active ])art. He served for some years as one of its elders and his hue voice made him a valued addition lo the musical circles of the church. He was united in marriage on the lOth of June. 1833, lo Miss Martha Churchill, a daughter of John Churchill, who was born in Maysville, Kentucky, and at an early day came to Illinois, settling in Sangamon county, whence he removed to Macon county in 1872. Mr. I'lelcher. who was born in 1810, passed away .September 6. 1883. and his wife died on the 2(1 of January, 1896. They were the parents of llie following named children: Thomas, .Mary. Jane. Rhoda E.. David C. James L., John W.. Willis. .\bel 1'. and Martha Josephine. Ihomas. Willis and Jane are now deceased.

L'pon the home farm under the parental roof John W. Fletcher spent the days of his boyhood. His educational privileges were somewhat limited because of the primitive condition of the schools of that time and because his services were needed upon the home farm. He was married in Knox county, Illinois, and then engaged in farming from 1872 until 1882. On the expiration of that period he removed to Decatur, where lie turned his attention to the dairy business and is now the oldest representative of this line of activity in the city. He started upon his business career without capital, but now has a comfortable home in the midst of attractive surroundings and he takes a just pride in keeping up his place in every particular. His has been a strenuous life and his diligence and enterprise have formed the foundation of his very desirable success.

On the nth of May, 1870. Air. Fletcher was united in marriage to Miss Emma Clevenger, a daughter of David and Eliza (Taylor) Clevenger. Her father was born in Ohio near Circleville and was a miller by trade. In 1853 he removed with his family to Bureau county, Illinois, at which time Mrs. Fletcher was about six months old. In that county he resided for eight years and then went to Knox county, this state, establishing his home in Abingdon. He died June 7, 1866, at the age of forty-nine years. His religious faith was that of the Christian church and his political belief was in accord with the principles of the Republican party. He had good knowledge of general business and was a broad reader, gaining extended information of many subjects. He married Miss Eliza Ann Taylor on the 15th of March, 1842. She was born in Pennsylvania and in her early girlhood days went with her parents, William and Betsey Taylor, to Ohio and afterward removed to Knox county, Illinois. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Fletcher were bom five children : Daisy, who is the wife of E. S. Grav ; Theron W. ; Estella, who died at the age of twenty-three years ; Griffin Taylor : and

Mr. Fletcher holds membership relations with the Modern Woodmen of iVmerica and with the Masonic fraternity. He was made a Mason in 1894 and is a member of Macon Lodge, No. 8, of Decatur, while his wife and daughter Estella belong to Chapter No. iii, Order of the Eastern Star. He belongs to the Christian church and has led a life that has reflected credit upon the church and secret societies which he represents. His business relations have been all that is honorable between his fellow men and himself and the success he has achieved is attributable entirely to his own eftorts, for without financial aid at the beginning of his career he has worked his way upward to the plane of affluence.

Washington S. Smith

Washington S. Smith, a well known grain dealer of Mount Zion, Illinois, was born in Bath county, Kentucky, September 2"]. 1850, and is a son of Benjamin and Frances (Stoner) Smith, who were natives of Mrginia and Kentucky, respectively. It was in 1857 that the family came to Illinois and located in Decatur. The parents removed to Mount Zion in 1890, and there the father died in December, 1901, at the ripe old age of eightythree years, and the mother passed away in June, 1902, at the age of seventy-nine. They had eight children, all of whom are still living, namely : Wheeden C, a resident of Decatur ; Mary E., wife of Robert N. Henderson ; ]\Iinerva M., wife of E. O. Humphrey, of Chicago; Washington S., of this sketch; Maria R., of Decatur ; Nannie S., wife of O. M. Scott, of South Wheatland township, Macon county ; Anna R., wife of H. N. Greene, of La Place, Illinois ; and J. Davis, of Decatur.

time, but his training at farm work was not so meager. He remained under the parental roof until 1881, when he commenced operating a farm and was engaged in farming and stockraising exclusively until July, 1900, when he purchased the grain business of J. A. Roney, of Hervey City, Illinois. A year later he purchased of George B. Spitler of Mount Zion a grain elevator and coal business and at the end of another year acquired through purchase the elevator and grain business of George E. Davidson at Prairie Hall, Illinois, so that he is now the owner of three good elevators in Macon county and is one of its largest grain dealers. Mr. Smith handles both corn and oats and ships his grain to Chicago, Detroit, Indianapolis, Terre Haute and many southern points.

In 1881 Mr. Smith was united in marriage to Miss Gertrude Ulery, a daughter of Eli and Mary Ulery, and to them have been born four children, as follows : Gladys, Sidney M., Guy U. and Paul S. Socially Mr. Smith is a member of Mount Zion Lodge, No. 300, I. O. O. F., with which he has been connected since 1880, and he affiliates with the Democratic party. In former years he took quite an active and prominent part in political aflfairs ; was a member of the board of supervisors from 1885 until i8qo and chairman of that important body in 1889 and 1890. In the fall of the latter year he was elected to the general assembly and re-elected in 1892. On the expiration of his term of office he concluded to retire from active politics and give his entire time to his business interests, which he finds much more congenial to his tastes than politics.

James D. Van Gundy

JAMES D. VAN GUNDY. James D. Van Gundy is a retired farmer residing at No. 995 West Marietta street in Decatur. He was born in Scott county, Illinois, on the 26th of September, 1855, a son of John and Sarah (Scobey) Van Gundy, who were also natives of Scott county, where the father carried on farming until 1873, -^^ which time he removed to Macon county, purchasing a farm in Milam township. There he carried on agricultural pursuits until 1896, when he removed to Decatur and has since lived a retired life save that he has some financial interests and is now the vice president of the Macon County Telephone Company. He is a prominent and well known citizen of Decatur and with his family resides at No. 1357 North Water street. Unto Mr. and Mrs. \'an Gundy were born nine children, of whom seven are now living.

At the usual age James D. Van Gundy began his education as a student in the public schools of his native county and when he had mastered the branches of learning therein taught he put aside his text books and turned his attention to agricultural pursuits in Scott county. As a companion and helpmate for the journey of life he chose Miss Frances E. Cowle, their marriage being celebrated in Shelby county, Illinois. The lady is a native of Madison county, this state, born on the 12th of September, 1853, and is a daughter of Daniel and Rosa Anna (Fanning) Cowle, the former born on the Isle of Man, while the latter was a native of New Jersey. For a number of years they resided in Madison county, Illinois, where the father engaged in farming and in 1865 they removed to Shelby county, this state, where Mr. Cowle carried on agricultural pursuits until his death. His wife also died in the same county.

AhcT his marriage Mr. Van Gundy engaged in farming in Shelby county for a year and then removed to Moweaqua, Illinois, where he was engaged in the manufacture of tile for a year. He next took up his abode in Kansas, where he carried on agricultural pursuits for one year. On the expiration of one year he returned to his native state and settled in Milam township, Macon county, purchasing a tract of land in section 13. With characteristic energy he began its cultivation and de- velopment and contiiiiu'd there to engage in general farming until 1903, when he removed to the city of Decatur in order that he might live a retired life here. He still owns, however, a farm of two hundred acres of valuable land in Milam township and the rental therefrom brings him a good income. He is also the owner of a nice residence at No. 995 West Marietta street, where he and his family are living. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Van Gundy have been born two children: Charles E., who is employed b}- the Weare Manufacturing Company of Decatur; and Florence Lillian, at home. The Van Gundy family is a prominent and well known one in Macon county and the subject of this review has a wide acquaintance and the esteem of all with whom he has been brought in contact. In politics he has always been a Democrat, but has never sought or desired office, preferring to devote his time and energies to his business affairs, in which he has met with creditable success.

Rudolph H. Schroeder

Rudolph H. Schroeder, now engaged in farming and stock-raising on section 15, IlHni township, was born on the 3d of May, 1856, in Milford, Massachusetts, about twenty miles from Boston, and is a son of Rudolph Max and Mary (Hagely) Schroeder. During his boyhood he accompanied his parents on their removal to Monroe, Wisconsin, where the father conducted the first shoe shop in the place. There our subject attended school until twelve years of age, working in a pop factory at fifty cents per day during his vacations, and while in school taking care of a drayman's horses, wagon and barn, for which service he received two dollars and a half per week. After leaving school he served a three years' apprenticeship to the tinner's trade with Jacob Schuler and was given three dollars per week.

came with the family to Macon county, Illinois, and his father erected the first house in the jjresent town of Warrensburg and to him was delivered the first goods over what is now the Peoria, Decatur & Evansville Railroad, which had just been built. Our subject entered the employ of A. T. Little, who was then conducting a hardware and tin shop at the southeast corner of the park in Decatur, and was given ten dollars at the end of the first week although there was no stipulated salary. Later he worked by the piece and made as high as eighteen dollars per week. While in that employ he manufactured twenty-two thousand patented fire kindlers. During the panic of 1871 he lost his position and returned to his father's home in Warrensbm-g, where he worked at anything he could find to do, receiving from one dollar and a half to two dollars per day. For a time he assisted his father in his harness shop, and in 1873 took charge of his father's farm one mile north of Warrensburg but continued to live in town and work in the shop at night. In the spring of 1881 he was made overseer of a three hundred and twenty-acre farm and boarded with Charles H. Faith, one and a quarter miles from Warrensburg, for two years. During the dull season on the farm he worked at the carpenter's trade for J. M. Keefer, of Warrensburg, and continued to follow that occupation until 1886. About this time he purchased five lots in the village, but during his wife's illness came very near losing his property but managed to save it and built thereon a nice residence, now occupied b}" C. J. Tucker. Mr. Schroeder conducted a restaurant in \\^arrensburg for a time and after his father's death had charge of the harness shop until his brother Will took possession. He then embarked in the tin manufacturing business and afterward added hardware to his stock, building the north end of the shop now occupied by his brother Will. He was a member of the firm of Ed White & Company, and when the firm failed he assumed a part of the debts

^nd carried on the business alone. He covered with corrugated iron the elevator of William Ritchie and also the one that was burned belonging to \'ictor Dewein, on the site of the present elevator of Faith & Dewein. He also put a tin roof on the last named, soldering it all at night and doing the entire job alone. Subsequently he was a member of the tirni of Schroeder Brothers and since selling out business has been conducted under the name of Fred E. Schroeder.

For the past five seasons our subject has lived in Illini township on the farm belonging to Francis W'inslow, of Decatur, and has engaged in general farming, operating two hundred and forty-seven acres of land with the assistance of his sons. He keeps a good grade of stock, including fifteen horses and colts, a number of cows, hogs and sheep. He began the sheep industry with twenty-three ewes but now has thirty and has raised fiftyseven lambs. He sells the latter wdien they are about three months old. During his five years' experience he has lost only five sheep and he derives a good income from his wool.

On the 26th of July, 1882, Mr. Schroeder married Miss Alpha Retta Akers, a daughter of O'Neill and Eliza Jane Akers. She was born, reared and educated in Woodsfield, Monroe county, Ohio, and in 1881 came to Warrensburg to live with her aunt, Mrs. Dr. Dempsey. Our subject and his wife have seven children: Manzy, born April 3. 1883;

Mr. Schroeder is prominently identified with several civic societies. In 1880 he became a charter member of the Odd Fellows Lodge, .\o. 600, of Forsythe, and now belongs to Decatur Encampment, No. 37, I. O. O. F., Decatur Canton, No. 19, Patriarchs Militant. He is also a member of the Modern Woodmen of Ainerica, the Ro}al Neighbors, the Ridgley I 'rotective Association and the Rebekahs, having been a member of the Sovereign grand lodge of the last named order for fifftcen years. Flis wife is also a member of the Royal Neighbors and Rebekahs and takes quite an active and jjrominent part in the work of the latter organization. She has taken the Chevalier and Uniform degrees of the Patriarch Militant, and is now serving her eleventh year as noble grand and captain. She is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church of Warrensburg and like her husband is highly respected and esteemed by all who know her. Mr. Schroeder was reared a Democrat and affiliated with that party for some time, but for the past ten years has voted the Republican ticket. For thirteen years he has efficiently filled the office of constable and has served as bailiiT under three ditTerent sheriffs.

Source changes here: from City of Decatur and Macon County, Illinois : a Record of Settlement, Organization, Progress and Achievement, by Nelson, William Edward, published 1910; 334,513 words in this source stream.

James Millikin

Plain and unpretentious in manner, James Millikin's breadth of vision and loftiness of ideals gave him a foremost place in Decatur's citizenship. This was not alone by reason of his success which, however, was notable, but also by reason of a humanity which found its expression in its helpfulness toward those who deserved assistance and his benefactions as manifest in liberal contributions to church, charity and education. The Millikin National Bank is a monument to his business enterprise; the Millikin University a monument to his public spirit. If there could be gathered in one assemblage the men who owe their present success to the timely assistance of Mr. Millikin, the number would be astonishingly large. His aid was not only of a material character, but also at times constituted the needed word of advice or counsel that was the outcome of his own clear judgment and broad experience.

Mr. Millikin was born in Washington county, Pennsylvania, August 2, 1827. He was always loath to give an account of himself, and thus are lacking many points which would prove of interest in his life history. His youthful days were spent in his father's home, his environment being that of the farm and the district school in which he acquired his early education. A desire for broader learning, however, prompted him to eagerly take advantage of the opportunity for attending Washington College, of Pennsylvania, where he continued his studies for three years. Many members of the Millikin family were representatives of the medical fraternity, and it was hoped and believed by his family that James Millikin might determine upon the medical profession as a life work, but his views did not coincide with the family wish, as he believed that his talents lay in other directions. To the west with its limitless opportunities he turned his attention. He realized the fact that the broad and rich Mississippi valley must eventually become thickly populated as the tide of emigration was steadily flowing in that direction. To Illinois he therefore made his way in 1848, and choosing Danville, Vermilion county, as his place of location, turned his attention to the livestock business, raising, purchasing and trading in stock of all kinds. He also rented farms upon which he pastured and fed his stock, and in control of his business interests showed keen discernment, excellent executive ability and unfaltering enterprise. There early came to him a realization of the fact that earnest labor, intelligently directed, constitutes the safest foundation upon which to build success, and throughout his entire life he remained a busy man. Even in his later years when liberal success crowned his efforts, he had no idle hours, for when business did not claim his attention, reading and travel were entered into with the same zest that he gave to commercial and financial problems.

Very early in his business career Mr. Millikin came to recognize opportunities that others passed heedlessly by. He saw that land must naturally rise rapidly in value as the state became thickly settled, and anticipating this increase in property valuation, he made extensive and judicious investments in Illinois and southwestern Iowa, securing much of his land for a dollar or a dollar and a quarter per acre. He was the original owner of the tract upon which the town of Bement, Illinois, now stands, and by purchase there came into his possession many acres of broad prairie upon which no improvements had been made, but which in due course of time commanded a high market price.

Decatur, too, showed the usual signs of growth and development, and in fact seemed imbued with a spirit of enterprise and progress that promised well for the future. Accordingly Mr. Millikin turned his attention to this city, of which he became a resident in 1856, remaining here until his death, which occurred fifty-three years later. He did not change his occupation with his residence, however, but continued to deal in lands, city real estate and livestock, thus becoming recognized as one of the prosperous and enterprising men of Decatur.

It has been said that Mr. Millikin reached Decatur with seventy-five thousand dollars which he had made in the previous six years. This was a fortune for those days, and when some of the citizens learned the sum of his capital they approached him with the proposition that he should engage in banking here. At or shortly before that time the banking business in Decatur was not flourishing. Financial institutions had been established, but had failed. This mark of confidence in Mr. Millikin was appreciated by him, and although he knew nothing from practical experience about the banking business, by that time he had become cognizant of his own capacities and powers in the business world, and he believed that he could master the intricacies of banking as other men had done. In i860, therefore, the Millikin Bank, then a private institution, opened its doors for business. Its office was in the old Railroad Bank building on Merchant street, and over the door was the sign, "James Millikin, Banker." The Railroad Bank had failed a short time before, and Decatur's thirty-eight hundred people had had their confidence in banking institutions somewhat shaken. Mr. Millikin's efforts, however, were followed with a measure of success that encouraged him to continue in the business. In 1863 he admitted J. Q. A. Odor to a partnership under the style of Millikin & Odor, but this relation was soon dissolved. His next partner, admitted in 1865, was Jerome R. Gorin, at which time the firm style of J. Millikin & Company was assumed. The two gentlemen remained as sole proprietors until 1881, when Mr. Gorin withdrew, the bank, however, continuing under the style of J. Milli- kin & Company until 1897, when it was incorporated and became the Millikin National Bank. Mr. Gorin, however, was succeeded by his son Orville B. Gorin, who had been with the bank from 1865, and later Milton Johnson became a partner, but sold his interests to Parke Hammer in January, 1892. Four years later Mr. Hammer died, and soon afterward J. M. Brownback acquired an interest. These were all the partners Mr. Millikin had up to 1897, when the bank of J. Millikin & Company passed out of existence, and incorporated the Millikin National Bank.

While the name of the bank remained so long unchanged, its home has undergone many chances, both in location and dimension. The increasing business necessitated larger quarters, and the spirit of enterprise which has ever been characteristic of the institution, demanded a more modern equipment for the conduct of the business. The first removal was made in 1864 to the north side of East Main street, and in 1880 greatly improved offices were secured at the corner of East Main and Water streets. The tearing down of the old building and the erection of the new Millikin Bank block necessitated a removal in 1894 to temporary quarters, and on the 12th of February, 1910, the present building was occupied. With regard to size, convenience, impregnability of money vaults and safety deposit vaults, the bank is unequalled by any in Illinois outside of Chicago. The years between 1865 and 1881, on which latter date Jerome R. Gorin withdrew, constitute a period within which the bank's solid and lasting foundations were laid and during which it passed through its most trying vicissitudes. It was founded on such a safe, conservative policy, however, that it stood up under even the great financial stress of 1873. This was largely due to the faith and confidence which the public reposed in its owners. The growth of the business is indicated by the fact that while it was "next to nothing in i860, in 1910 its business totaled five million dollars." This has been the result of steady growth and the wise business management and keen discernment of Mr. Millikin and his partners. In a contemporary publication appeared the following: "The dominating characteristics of James Millikin were honesty, intelligence, industry and prudence, with broad benevolence underlying all. And it is a mistaken idea, if such a notion exists, that his benevolence was almost wholly general and seldom shown in individual cases. But, while we know that in his personal capacity he helped numerous persons to whom he could not lend the bank's funds, it is as a banker we wish now to consider him. From the first to last he rang clear and true in answer to the prime question every careful would-be depositor silently asks in his heart of a banker: Is he honest? There was never a doubt of this at any time in his career. The next questions: Has he the requisite business sagacity? The necessary prudence and conservativeness ? The sound, true judgment of men and affairs that a banker must have to succeed? were all answered, year after year, with increasing emphasis in the affirmative. Not in a day, nor a year, nor a decade, did he build to the top his reputation as a banker, but in a half century. And at no time in all these years did he lose the confidence of those who entrusted their money to his care. Mr. Millikin's personal investments in nearly every instance were remunerative. And the investments and loans of the bank as a rule were wisely and safely placed."

One of Mr. Millikin's forces of success as a banker was his keen understanding of men. He was seldom if ever at fault in judging an individual. Long after he had become one of the most successful bankers of Illinois he said that frequently he loaned men five times as much as they were worth because he believed in their ability to successfully control the business in which they were engaged. It was ever true of the record made by his bank that it never refused to pay on demand to any man who had a deposit there, and when, in the latter part of 1907, banks in all parts of the country were suspending active payment and giving clearing house certificates or other paper forms that were not exactly money, Mr. Millikin determined not to break the record which he had made in always giving cash on demand, and going into the market bought currency for which he paid a handsome premium. As it turned out, he did not need the money, but he was ready if he had been asked for it, and thus was qualified to maintain the clear record of the bank untarnished.

The building up of an institution of the character of the Millikin Bank would alone entitle its promoter to the definite consideration and high honor of his fellowmen. This was not all Mr. Millikin did, however, for Decatur. He financed many business projects which have been of material benefit to the city. He stood behind the Union Iron Works until it had passed the critical stage in its existence, securing the services of good men, and did much to make the enterprise one of the most successful manufacturing concerns of the city. Many other valuable industries were well started and prosperously conducted owing to his material assistance and wise counsel, and his well formulated plans. Many who received assistance from Mr. Millikin became strong men in the growth of the city, and the enterprises that employed their energies made the town. His own business career was not always one of continuous progress. In the earlier years it was one of continuous, arduous effort. He was forced to exercise the most watchful care to make the business successful, but always he held to the ideals which he set up for himself and never did he abandon a plan which his judgment sanctioned as the wisest course to follow. A side light is thrown upon his personal character in the statement of one who knew him well: "Mr. Millikin became the richest man in Macon county, yet with most of us the first thought of the man, even after knowing him for years, was not that of a money-maker. He, of course, had to give much time to money-making, and yet he had much time to spare for something else. Those who met him in a social way were never bored by him by discussions on the art of acquiring wealth. He had something else to talk about and he talked well. Even at the bank, if you called to see him about a matter outside of the business of the house, he would sit down and talk for an hour and a half about anything and everything that had no possible connection with banking or money-making. He was indeed a most interesting companion."

Others have characterized Mr. Millikin as "the greatest benefactor Decatur ever had." He gave more than a half million dollars during his lifetime to benefactions. His gifts to Millikin University approximate four hundred and forty thousand dollars, and the Anna B. Millikin home received property and cash aggregating forty thousand dollars, while the Young Men's Christian As- sociation, the Young Women's Christian Association, and different churches were the recipients of large sums. His plan for a university took definite form when, on the 13th of May, 1900, he made a formal offer to Dr. W. J. Darby, secretary of the Educational Society of the Cumberland Presbyterian church in Decatur, and Rev. A. W. Hawkins, pastor of the Cumberland Presbyterian church, to found an institution of learning in Decatur under the auspices of this denomination. It was while attending Jefferson College that he recognized the lack of facilities for higher education for the masses of young people, and resolved that some day, if he prospered, he would make provision to meet the need. It was in this way that he explained to President Roosevelt on the day of the dedication of the university the founding of the institution. He offered to donate Oakland Park as a site for the college and pay the sum of two hundred thousand dollars in cash provided the synods of Illinois, Indiana and Iowa of the Cumberland Presbyterian church would raise one hundred thousand and Decatur a similar amount for its support. On the 1st of January, 1901, he was notified that his conditions had been met. The work was vigorously prosecuted, and on the 1st of July, 1901, Dr. A. R. Taylor, formerly of Kansas State Normal School, was installed president of the institution. The buildings were dedicated June 4, 1903, with imposing ceremonies, the dedicatory address being delivered by President Theodore Roosevelt. Mr. Millikin was ever a most plain and unassuming man, who disliked notoriety, and even on the occasion of the laying of the corner stone of the main part of the university buildings, he refused to appear upon the platform, and after mingling quietly with the crowd for a few moments, he slipped away as quietly as he had come. The university, however, was the embodiment of a plan which he had long held and cherished, and he was greatly pleased over the surprising development of the school, not only in the structure of the buildings, but also in the equipment and exhibits of the technical and scientific departments. "In giving this institution of learning to the people James Millikin revealed the depth and breadth of his underlying benevolence. The university is a striking concrete proof of his spirit of philanthropy - philanthropy that partakes both of the individual and of the general."

Mr. Millikin married Miss Anna B. Aston, a daughter of Rev. S. M. Aston, and their first home was the property at William and Edward streets, now known as the Bohon place. In 1862 the property at Pine and Main streets was purchased and the home, with the improvements that have been added, make it one of the finest residences of central Illinois. Mr. Millikin passed away on the 2d of March, 19x39, at the advanced age of eighty-two years. The Decatur Herald, in commenting upon him, said: "James Millikin possessed the breadth of vision that raised him above the men whose only claim to distinction is mere wealth. After he had acquired wealth, he looked about for ways in which to spend it. He saw much of his own country, and while foreign lands, which draw to their shores so many Americans, had little fascination for him, he kept his eyes open, and even in his declining years became a student of educational matters."

In the perspective of the years the work of James Millikin will grow larger rather than smaller. It is a well known fact that the people of mediocre ability are forgotten while those who are of real importance to the community come to their real place as factors in the upbuilding of the city. The life record of James Millikin, faultless in honor, fearless in conduct and stainless in reputation, is indeed a most creditable chapter in the history of Decatur.

James William Carter

James William Carter, general manager of the Decatur Coal Company and prominently identified with the political and social life of the city, was born at Sullivan, Moultrie county, Illinois, June 5, 1861. He is a son of Charles A. and Polly Ann (Waggoner) Carter, who were both natives of Illinois. The parents came to Decatur in 1863, where the father engaged for a number of years in the hardware business. In 1890 he moved to Fresno, California, and remained there until his death, which occurred December 4, 1907. The mother and one daughter, Mrs. Nellie M. Severns, are still living at Fresno.

The subject of this review received his education in the public schools of Decatur and after laying his books aside became clerk in a hardware store, continuing for about a year, then engaging as clerk and bookkeeper for Overmeyer & Kaufman, dealers in real estate. He next took charge of the Peter Loeb Foundry Company and then was with the Union Iron Works, but after three years with the latter firm returned to the foundry company, with which he remained for nine months. We next find him for about a year in Chicago with George D. Haworth, manufacturer of corn planters. However, our subject was again attracted to his old home and he accepted a position with B. Z. Taylor in the oil mill business, but after sixteen months resigned and in 1885 became identified as bookkeeper with the Decatur Coal Company. In this business he showed special aptitude and after an experience of eight years he purchased stock in the company and was made vice president, later being elected secretary and treasurer and then general manager, which position he now holds, assisting in an important degree in developing the business of the company.

For many years Mr. Carter has been actively interested in political affairs. In 1895 he was elected alderman of the seventh ward and served for one term, filling the chairmanship of the water and light committee and discharging his duties with a fidelity that met the approval of citizens of all political parties. In 1904 he was appointed a member of the board of fire commissioners by Mayor George W. Lehman and served in that position for two years. His ability was further recognized in 1907, when he was elected city treasurer for a term of two years, and in that responsible position he made many new friends as a safe guardian of the city's finances and a public official with whom it was a pleasure to transact business.

On June 28, 1882, Mr. Carter was united in marriage to Miss Idora J. Patterson, of Decatur. Three children have blessed the union: Ralph M., now a practicing physician of Green Bay, Wisconsin; Alma Lois; and Neil T., who died June 23, 1896, at two and one-half years of age.

Mr. Carter is actively identified with fraternal organizations and has been a member of Chevalier Bayard Lodge, No. 189, Knights of Pythias, since January 15, 1889. He has filled all the chairs in this lodge and was chairman of the local committee that secured the Pythian Home for Decatur. He is also a member of the state board that has charge of this home, which is one of the beneficent state institutions in which all Pythians of the city are interested. He is a leading member of the Masonic fraternity, belonging to Macon Lodge, No. 8, and Beaumonoir Commandery, No. 9, and is past commander of the latter organization. He also holds membership in the Modern Woodmen of America and is a deacon of the First Baptist church of this city. A man of exceptional social qualities, Mr. Carter has many warm personal friends and he is recognized as a strong factor in political, religious and fraternal circles of the city. Whatever his hand or brain finds to do he does excellently, and few men in central Illinois have ever gained a higher position in the estimation of the people than the gentleman whose name stands at the head of this review.

William Edward Nelson By A. G. Webber

This "History of Decatur and Macon County," without a biographical sketch of the editor of this work would be like The Pentateuch without Moses. The life work of this kind old man is so intimately and so prominently related to and interwoven with the development and the historic events of this community that one would not be complete without the other.

The father was of Irish and the mother of Scotch descent. A combination that has furnished this country with her most illustrious and substantial citizens. John Nelson, the grandfather, was born in Virginia. At an early age he was left an orphan, and when he grew to manhood he enlisted in the Revolutionary war. One of the last great battles in which he was engaged was the battle of King's Mountain in October, 1780. He emigrated to the state of Tennessee, where Richard Nelson, the father, was born. The latter studied law with Judge Hugh L. White and was married to Eliza McCampbell, the mother of William E. Nelson, who was born at Sparta, Tennessee, on the 4th of June, 1824. His mother was daughter of Andrew McCampbell, who emigrated from Scotland to Virginia; served in the war of the Revolution and then removed to Knox county, Tennessee.

Richard Nelson, the father, practiced his profession, the law, for more than twenty-five years at Sparta. He was a member of the Tennessee constitutional convention in 1834 and for a number of years was judge of the county court of Carroll county, Mississippi, to which county he removed in 1846, where he died in 1865.

William E. Nelson was admitted to the bar at Sparta in 1844, and on February 26, 1846, was married to Mary Ann Snodgrass, the daughter of Colonel James Snodgrass, of White county, Tennessee. He practiced law in his native county for about ten years and early in the year 1857, with his young wife, full of hope and ambition for their future, came north and selected De- catur, then a thriving little city of about two thousand inhabitants, as their home. Mrs. Nelson died in November, 1876, and Mr. Nelson was again married to Mrs. Lucy Hollingsworth Montgomery, a daughter of Judge Jeptha G. Hollingsworth, of Elkton, Kentucky, and the widow of John T. Montgomery, Esq., of Decatur.

Only one of Judge Nelson's children lived to attain majority, the late Theodore Nelson, who removed to Chicago some twenty odd years ago and died in that city, December 17, 1909. He was for a succession of terms secretary of the democratic state central committee and had perhaps the most extensive acquaintance of any man in Illinois.

Judge Nelson found here in Decatur a most brilliant galaxy of lawyers, who practiced law at the Macon county bar. Such men as Charles Emmerson, Brower Bunn, Richard J. Oglesby, Sheridan Wait, Joel S. Post, the Tuppers and Arthur J. Gallagher. These distinguished lawyers frequently had associated with them in important litigations Abraham Lincoln, Stephen A. Douglas, David Davis, Leonard Swett and other celebrated lawyers who then practiced law at the Macon county bar. These men set high ideals and furnished a real inspiration to other members in their profession.

The first railroads into this part of the country had just been built; land was everywhere being entered and settled up ; industrial and commercial enterprises were projected and established; the busy echo of the saw and the trowel in all directions gave unmistakable evidence that a building boom was at high tide here, just before the panic of 1857.

Amid these great business problems and perplexing legal questions, Mr. Nelson began his life work in Decatur. At that time an armful of law books constituted a good working library. It was a time which called forth the purest love of justice and the strongest common sense in the solution and settlement of the business transacted by lawyers. He found here the opportunity of his life, to prove his absolute integrity and his superior legal ability. He was recognized by all who knew him for his uncompromising honesty and for his love of justice. He became the local attorney for the Toledo & Great Western Railroad, then of the Wabash and Illinois Central Railroads.

In 1870 Governor John M. Palmer appointed Harvey B. Hurd, M. Shaffer and William E. Nelson, commissioners, to revise the laws of Illinois under the constitution of 1870. He was elected to the Twenty-seventh general assembly of the Illinois legislature. During this session many of the laws, the most important and far-reaching in the interest of the people, were enacted. The work of this commission was the forerunner and became the foundation for the general revision of all the laws in Illinois, contained in the Revised Statues of 1874. So well did this faithful public servant discharge his duty, that the people elected him judge of the circuit court for the fourth judicial circuit of Illinois in June, 1877. After the expiration of his term as circuit judge, he was, in the fall of 1886, elected judge of the county court of Macon county.

Judge Nelson has been a lifelong democrat. At this time Macon county was overwhelmingly republican, and he had for his opponent one of the most popular young republican lawyers in Macon county. This gave the people of

Macon county the opportunity to express their appreciation and approval of the public services rendered by Judge Nelson. That the people can always be trusted was proven by the election of William E. Nelson.

Up to this time the county court was simply looked upon as a tribunal for the appeal of justice cases and for the probating of wills and the allowance of claims against estates. In this court Judge Nelson found a great field of work for his ripe judicial mind and for the care and conservation of the interests of those who are under disability. He inaugurated a new era in the practice in this court. A new system with clearly defined rules was established. Process was issued, juries impaneled, pleading rules published, days of trial fixed, and order of procedure observed, which gave dignity and orderly procedure, and commanded the attention and respect of the Macon county bar.

In this court, all estates are administered and settled. Widows, orphans, and all persons under legal disability have their rights determined there. All special assessments are submitted for hearing and confirmation in this court. It is a common law court of limited jurisdiction, to which misdemeanors are certified down and common law cases are appealed up to this court. In short, it is the "people's court." It was here where Judge Nelson became the judicial father of widows and orphans and the unwavering friend of the unfortunate and friendless.

After presiding in this court four years, the people of Macon county regardless of politics again demanded the reelection of Judge Nelson to the office of county judge in 1890. This was probably the greatest political triumph in the life of Judge Nelson. The democratic ticket was defeated by over one thousand votes, but the people demonstrated their gratitude by reelecting this public servant again by a handsome majority. Everybody said that no other man could have been elected on the democratic ticket at that time.

For real and genuine politeness, Judge Nelson has always stood high in Macon county. He is in a class of his own and no man has dared to question or to dispute his right to this claim. No one can truthfully question the honorable intentions and the absolute honesty of William E. Nelson. During more than half a century his life has been an open record to this community. As a lawyer, he was always loyal and true to his clients. In the capacity of a legislator and as a judge his official life has always been pure and above suspicion. If there is such a thing as a man being too good and too liberal to others, the life-work of Judge Nelson is the proof.

When he came here everybody was struggling for an existence ; and he always thought of the welfare of others and maintained an abiding faith that somehow or other He who knows all things would take care of him. It has been well known by other members of the bar that Judge Nelson never charged a fee large enough for his services because he felt that it might be too large for his client. In this way he transacted a large amount of business for a small remuneration. He was liberal to a fault. This is one reason why Judge Nelson did not amass a great fortune from the practice of law. He earned several of them. The people of Macon county owe to Judge Nelson a great debt of gratitude for his exemplary life of unselfishness as a lawyer.

This great commoner of the people, like a majestic oak has been a moral strength in this community. God has set His seal of approval upon this life by making it one of the richest and happiest lives in Macon county. The world has been made purer, nobler and better by it. He has indeed been a true benediction by his uniform friendship and loyalty to the young lawyer and by his advice and counsel to those under disability or in misfortune. The publishers of this "History of Decatur and Macon County" are to be congratulated for their wisdom and good fortune in securing the services of so eminent and competent a man to supervise the excellent history here presented.

John L. Waddell

John L. Waddell, justice of the peace of Decatur, whose decisions, strictly fair and impartial, have "won golden opinions from all sorts of people" was born at Chestnut, in Logan county, Illinois, a son of Clarence L. and Harriet E. (Simpson) Waddell. He comes of English lineage on the paternal side and of Irish ancestry on the maternal. His father devoted many years to farming and then retired to enjoy the fruits of his former toil. He is a native of Logan county, Illinois, while his wife was born in St. Clair county, this state.

John L. Waddell acquired his early education in the schools of Mount Pulaski and in the Decatur high school, in which he took the work of the senior year. He was graduated in 1900 and was chosen class orator, as he was also upon his graduation from the grammar school. Determining upon the practice of law as his life work, he began reading in the office and under the direction of the firm of Mills Brothers, well known attorneys of Decatur. His studies, however, were largely planned by I. R. Mills, who at that time was state's attorney. In further preparation for the profession Mr. Waddell matriculated in the law department of the State University of Michigan, at Ann Arbor, being admitted to the junior class. Illness, however, compelled him to abandon his studies during the last half of the semester. This was in the fall of 1902. When he recovered his health he entered the Wesleyan University at Bloomington, Illinois, where he resumed his interrupted law course and was there graduated with the class of 1903. He was also elected class orator in that institution. In January prior to his graduation he secured a position in the billing department of the Mueller Manufacturing Company and subsequently held several clerical positions. After his second year with that firm he was made head of the law and patent department and continued with the Mueller Manufacturing Company until the 1st of May, 1909, when he resigned to enter actively in the field of politics. He is the youngest man ever elected to the position of justice of the peace in Macon county. He opened his court in the fire district over Shade's shoe store, which was totally destroyed by fire on the 22d of August, 1909. He then opened a temporary office in the St. Nicholas Hotel but within ten days secured an office on the south side of East Main street, almost opposite his present location. On the 1st of August, 19 10, he removed into the Busher building over Shade's shoe store, where he has a well equipped office and court room. His decisions show thorough consideration of the questions which come up for settlement and correct application of legal principles to the points at issue.

On the 17th of November, 1906, Mr. Waddell was married to Miss Helen G. Shuff, of Morgan county, Illinois, a daughter of Oliver S. and Mary (Johnson) Shuff. They have a bright little son, John L. Jr.,, who was born May 26, 1910. Mr. Waddell holds membership with Ionic Lodge, No. 312, A. F. & A. M. ; the Elks Lodge, No. 401 ; the Tribe of Ben Hur, and the Improved Order of Red Men. His religious faith is indicated in his membership in the First Baptist church.

His interests are wide and varied and his support can always be counted upon to further progressive movements tending to promote the material, intellectual and moral progress of the community. His work in office is giving entire satisfaction by reason of the fairness and impartiality of his decisions, and although the youngest justice Macon county has ever had, his record for efficiency and ability is equal to that of any who has held the position.

Dr. Herbert C. Jones, who in the practice of his profession is giving especial attention to diseases of women and children, was born in Athens, Ohio, January 7, 1855, a son of J. Lindley and Ellen (Cameron) Jones, the former a native of Athens, Ohio, while the latter was born in the Shenandoah valley in Virginia. The father followed the pursuit of school-teaching in his native state in early manhood and later engaged in merchandising in Athens and in Greenfield, Ohio, but at the time of the Civil war put aside business considerations to become a member of the Union army and went with Sherman as far as Atlanta.

Reared in the state of his nativity, Herbert C. Jones continued his education in the public schools until graduated from high school at Greenfield, Ohio, with the class of 187 1. He afterward attended the Ohio University at Athens, and later entered the Medical College of Ohio, from which he was graduated with the class of 1876. After completing the course he engaged in the drug business at Jacksonville and at Sanford, Florida.

While in the former city he was married, on the 3d of September, 1879, to Miss Florence Correa. They began their domestic life in the south but in 1881 returned northward, establishing their home in Cerro Gordo, Illinois, where Dr. Jones entered into partnership with Dr. Harsha for the practice of medicine. This relation was maintained until the latter's removal to Decatur, after which Dr. Jones continued alone in practice in Cerro Gordo until the fall of 1887, when, on account of the failing health of his wife, he returned to Florida and there spent two years. On the expiration of that period he opened an office in Decatur, forming a partnership with Dr. Catto, which continued for five years. Actuated by a desire to attain the highest degree of proficiency possible, he has from time to time resumed his studies, having taken post-graduate work in the Rush Medical College in 1883, while at all times he has kept in touch with the onward march of the profession through his perusal of medical literature. He was for two years a partner in practice with Dr. W. J. Chenoweth under the firm style of Chenoweth & Jones. He has been local surgeon for the Vandalia Railroad Company for fifteen years and was associated with his former partner, Dr. Chenoweth, as surgeon for the Illinois Central Railroad and for the Peoria, Decatur & Evansville Railroad. While in Florida he was appointed assistant surgeon of the South Florida Railroad in 1887. He has been particularly successful in his treatment of diseases of children, and his obstetrical work has draw^i to him the favorable attention of the public. He belongs to the American Medical Association, the Illinois State Medical Society, the Central District Medical Society and is an ex-president of the Decatur Medical Society.

In his fraternal relations Dr. Jones is a Mason and served as master of the blue lodge at Cerro Gordo, Illinois, and once as master of the lodge with which he affiliated while in Florida. He has attained high rank in Masonry and is now a noble of Medinah Temple of the Mystic Shrine in America. He also belongs to the Decatur Club and Country Club and enjoys the warm friendship of many of the members.

John F. Mattes

John F. Mattes occupies a central place on the stage of business activity in Decatur, where his intelligently directed efforts have found constantly broadening scope in the establishment and management of industrial and commercial enterprises which have been an element in the city's upbuilding as well as a source of individual success. A native son of Decatur, Mr. Mattes was born August 24, 1861, of the marriage of Frederick and Agnes (Luapold) Mattes, both of whom were natives of Germany and came to this country in early manhood and womanhood. The father spent some time in the east ere taking up his abode in Decatur. It was in this city that he formed the acquaintance of Miss Luapold and their friendship, ripening into love, was consummated in marriage. They have since resided continuously in this city save for a brief period of five years spent upon a farm not far distant. Mr. Mattes is still hale and hearty at the age of eighty-one years but in 1908 was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife, who passed away in April. He was one of the pioneer brick manufacturers of Decatur and early in the '60s was associated with Conrad Ammen in brickmaking. He continued in that field of business until eight years ago, when he retired, since which time he has spent his days in the enjoyment of well earned rest, the fruits of his former toil supplying him with all of the comforts and some of the luxuries of life.

No event of special importance occurred to vary the routine of life for John F. Mattes in his youthful days. At the usual age he entered the public schools and with zest entered into the pleasures of the playground as well as the duties of the schoolroom. His business training was received under the direction of his father, who instructed him in the methods of manufacturing brick and for many years the father and his two sons, John F. and Edward, were associated in business under the firm name of the Mattes Brick Company. At length the father retired, as previously stated, and the two sons now carry on the business. In 1900 the enterprise was incorporated and merged into the Decatur Brick Company, at which time John F. Mattes was elected president of the new organization, while Edward Mattes became its general manager. The company manufacture a mottled facing brick, which is a vitrified brick of very superior quality and the output is such as to make this one of the most important productive industries of the city. Brickmaking, however, has by no means constituted the scope of the business efforts and activity of John F. Mattes, a man of resourceful ability whose labors have constituted a beneficent force in the material progress of Decatur as well as a source of individual success. He was one of the promoters of the Manufacturers & Consumers Coal Company, which sank three shafts. The work through that time, however, was unsuccessful, as water stopped further proceedings. Much money was invested, therefore, before returns were received. In 1903 a shaft was put in south of the city and operations were begun, since which time a large amount of coal has been taken out and the business has since proved a profitable and growing undertaking. Mr. Mattes has served as one of the directors and as vice president of the company since its organization. He was for fifteen years a member of the firm of S. A. Tuttle & Company, engaging in street paving and sewer construction work, and in that connection executed important contracts. Into the field of real estate he has extended his operations on a large scale, handling all his own property. He has now three additions, known as the F. Mattes addition, the J. F. Mattes addition and the Lincoln Park addition, and in the development of these properties for the real-estate market he is contributing in substantial measure to the growth and improvement of Decatur. He is one of the city's most prominent and best known business men, his efforts at all times being actuated by a spirit of enterprise that knows no such word as fail and that regards an obstacle only as an impetus for renewed effort.

In 1884 Mr. Mattes was married to Miss Louise Johns, of Decatur, who died in 1886, leaving an only son, Carleton, who is now engaged in the printing business in this city. In 1890 Mr. Mattes wedded Miss Anna Roeder, of St. Louis, Missouri, and their children are Arthur, Violet, Adaline and Bernice.

The parents hold membership in the Methodist Episcopal church, in which Mr. Mattes is serving as a trustee. He is a republican in his political views but not to the extent of being bound by party ties. His support of any measure or candidate must have the sanction of his judgment and his judgment rests upon a public-spirited devotion to the general good. He is a member of several beneficial orders and is one of the prominent Masons of Decatur, having taken the various degrees of the York and Scottish Rites, while in the various bodies he has held office. He has likewise crossed the sands of the desert with the noble? of the Mystic Shrine. Engaging social qualities have rendered him a popular citizen, while his extensive business interests have made him a prominent and representative one of Decatur. His record is written in the tangible terms of success and his prosperity has been the legitimate and logical result of his own labors, never including the sacrifice of another's interests.

Orville B. Gorin

It has been said that fortunate is the man who has back of him an ancestryhonorable and distinguished, and happy is he if his lines of life are cast in harmony therewith. In person, in appearance and in character Orville B. Gorin is a worthy scion of his race. The family name has long been closely associated with financial interests in Macon county, and none have labored more faithfully to promote the stability of banking interests, and thus safeguard the welfare of depositors, than has Orville B. Borin, now president of the Millikin Bank. From the age of four years he has lived in Decatur, and throughout the intervening period his labors have constituted a force in the development of the city, while his name has been an influencing factor in securing support for any cause which he has espoused.

Mr. Gorin was born in Taylorville, Christian county, Illinois, January 25, 1849. His parents were Jerome R. and Eleanor E. (Fawcett) Gorin, of whom extended mention is made elsewhere in this volume. The son, Orville Gorin, was but four years of age when they removed to Decatur, and in this city he has since made his home. Like most boys of the period, he devoted much of his youth to the acquirement of an education, continuing his studies here until he had prepared for collegiate work. He then entered Knox College at Galesburg, Illinois, devoting some time to the further mastery of a course in that institution. He returned to Decatur and throughout his business career has been connected with the Millikin Bank. When he entered into active relations therewith it was conducted under the firm style of James Millikin & Company. Fifteen years served not only to secure him various promotions but also to bring him into the partnership, for he became financially interested in the business in 1880. The bank was established by James Millikin and the firm name of J. Millikin & Company was adopted in 1866, at which time Jerome R. Gorin became a partner. In 1880 he sold his interest to his son, Orville B. Gorin, and to Milton Johnson, the latter later disposing of his interest to Parke Hammer. In October, 1897, the bank was incorporated as the Millikin National Bank, with James Millikin as president, Orville B. Gorin, cashier; and J. M. Brownback, assistant cashier, the latter having been admitted to a partnership in 1896. In 1898 Mr. Gorin became vice president of the institution and in 1909 was elected to the presidency. He is thus today at the head of one of the oldest and strongest financial institution of this part of the state, the success of which is attributable in no small measure to his efforts, for through forty-five years he has been connected with the bank and during the entire period has endeavored to bring the institution up to the highest standard and to introduce every progressive

In the Decatur Daily Herald appeared the following: "During the entire career of the Millikin National Bank it has demonstrated beyond a doubt that it is ably managed and that its affairs are in the hands of time-tried men who weigh well every act and who depart not from the well trodden path of financial safety. All investments are most carefully made and no unnecessary risks are taken, hence the marked favor it enjoys at the hands of many of the most conservative depositors. It does a general banking business, loans money on approved commercial paper, issues foreign and domestic exchanges and receives the deposits of the manufacturer, merchant, farmer and general depositor. Since its organization the bank has pursued the way of legitimate and conservative business, its able management avoiding the dangerous shoals upon which many banks have foundered, and today the Millikin National bank stands as solid and firm in the financial world as the most timid and skeptical depositor could possibly desire. It has been held high in the people's estimation for these years because of the unquestionable character of the men at its head and the sufficiency of the capital behind it. There is not an officer or director in this bank in whom the people have not the utmost confidence, and as a natural result it has always enjoyed a large patronage. This bank is a United States depository. Its present deposits are about three million dollars and loans and discounts are two millions, two hundred thousand. Its correspondent banks are the Hanover National Bank and the Winslow, Lanier & Company Bank of New York ; Merchants Loan & Trust and First National Banks of Chicago ; National Bank of Commerce, St. Louis; Merchants National Bank, Philadelphia; Merchants National Bank, Cincinnati; besides connections with leading banking houses throughout the United States."

While Mr. Gorin is preeminently a banker and business man, he has never allowed close attention to business to dwarf his finer sensibilities or warp his kindly nature. He is in full sympathy with the principles of the Masonic fraternity and holds membership in Macon Lodge, No. 8, A. F. & A. M., and Beaumonoir Commandery, No. 9, K. T.

He laid the foundation for a happy home life by his marriage, in 1872, to Miss Ella McClellan, a daughter of Edminston McClellan, a prominent and influential citizen of Decatur, who for twenty-eight years filled the office of county clerk of Macon county. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Gorin has been born a daughter, Gussie J., who has made extensive trips abroad with her parents, visiting many points of interest in the old world as well as in the new. Theirs is one of the fine homes of Decatur and its hospitality makes it one of the favorite resorts of their many friends.

A contemporary biographer has said: "Not to know Orville B. Gorin in Decatur is to argue one's self unknown, for his connection with business and social interests has been so extended that he stands today as one of the most prominent men of the city. His interest in his fellow men is sincere and arises from a humanitarian spirit which has prompted his support and cooperation with many movements and enterprises for the general good. He might perhaps have won high political honor, but he has always preferred to devote his ener- gies to his extensive business interests and has been instrumental in winning for the Millikin National Bank a reputation which extends beyond the limits of the state. His career has ever been such as to warrant the trust and confidence of the business world and his activity in financial circles forms no unimportant chapter in the history of Decatur."

James J. Moran

Some men are born with an aptitude for business and obstacles serve only to whet their ambition. They succeed in spite of difficulties and, starting at the bottom of the ladder, they climb to the top. As they advance their vision widens, their ability increases and they gain the title of captains of industry or leaders in the business world. They are the men who set the pace for their slowergoing brethren and add vitality and spice to the ordinary affairs of life. To this class belongs James J. Moran, prominent as an undertaker, whose name is known among men in the same line of business all over the country.

Mr. Moran was born in Jersey City, October 2, 1868, and is a son of Mark W. and Mary (Doyle) Moran. On both sides of the house he is of Irish ancestry, the mother having been born in Ireland and the father in Scranton, Pennsylvania, of parents who came from the Emerald isle. Mark W. Moran from seven years of age has been identified with coal mining. He began as a breaker boy in the mines of Pennsylvania, passing through the various stages of advancement, and for forty years has been superintendent of the Decatur Coal Company's mines. He came to this city upon the invitation of the company, in 1870, as they desired him to superintend the sinking of a shaft in a coal mine, and he has ever since his arrival served in the capacity of superintendent.

The subject of this review attended the convent schools for several years and at the age of twelve years began his business career by working in a coal mine. After four years' experience under ground, he entered a grocery store in the city, his father buying a half-interest in the business after two years. Three years later the interest was disposed of and our subject gained his first experience in the undertaking business under John A. Reeves, driving a hearse at seven dollars and a half a week. Six months later his wages were raised to ten dollars per week and after he had still further demonstrated his qualifications he received fifteen dollars per week and also was given fifteen per cent on business secured. The name of the firm became Wykoff & Reeves and five years later Mr. Moran purchased the interest of Mr. Reeves, becoming sole owner of the business in 1892, although it was necessary for him at the time to borrow fifty-five hundred dollars from the bank in order to consummate the purchase. When Mr. Moran assumed charge he had only one employe upon the pay roll and his salary was ten dollars per week. To show the condition of our subject's finances, it may be stated that at the close of his first week's operations he found it necessary to borrow six dollar in order to meet the pay roll. Today he is one of the substantial moneyed men of Decatur, a stockholder of the Citizens National Bank, one of its large property owners and an acknowledged leader in the National Funeral Directors Association. The present happy condition of Mr. Moran's affairs presents a striking contrast with the condition of fifteen or twenty years ago when he was struggling to secure a footing among business men in the community. Having once made a start, he pushed rapidly to the front. The territory of his operations is not confined to Decatur but extends as far as thirty miles in all directions from the city. For years past he has had charge of a number of the largest funerals in this part of the state and as a funeral conductor it is doubtful whether he has a superior in Illinois.

On September 17, 1891, Mr. Moran was united in marriage to Miss Katie A. Leahy, of Decatur, who became an efficient undertaker herself and assists her husband when there is call for a woman's services. Five children have been born of the union: Louis, now connected with the Citizens National Bank; Linus ; Ambrose ; Imelda ; and James J., Jr.

Mr. Moran is identified with the republican party and an active worker in its cause in Decatur and Macon county. His religious belief is indicated by his membership in the Catholic church and fraternally he is connected with a number of beneficiary organizations. He has attained his success by an innate ability and an adaptation to a calling that requires tact and judgment, with both of which qulities he is abundantly supplied. His vocation also demands pleasing manners and business sagacity. In these respects also Mr. Moran excels. That he is popular throughout a wide region in Illinois is attested by the frequency with which his name is heard. Of a generous and sympathetic disposition, he has made a host of friends whom he truly cherishes and it requires no prophet to declare that the subject of this review will long continue to be a prime favorite in Decatur and Macon county.

Peter Cofer

Peter Cofer, residing at No. 412 East Condit street in Decatur, merits and receives the respect of his fellow townsmen. Loyal and courageous in the time of the nation's internal strife, energetic and progressive in the subsequent peaceful period, he has won for himself a creditable position among the residents of Macon county. He was born in Oberplace, Germany, on the 24th of August, 1837. His father, also a native of that country, was a farmer by occupation and remained in Germany until called to his final rest. The mother, who bore the maiden name of Margaret Holt, also spent her entire life in Germany. Of their family only two are now living, the sister of our subject being Marie, who still remains in the fatherland.

Peter Cofer was educated in the schools of Germany and remained upon his father's farm until twenty years of age, when he determined to seek a home and fortune in the United States and* crossed the Atlantic to the new world. He made his way to Milwaukee, where he was employed at various occupations and afterward spent two years in Chicago. He then removed to Sullivan, Illinois, where he resided until 1898, when he came to Decatur and here has since lived.

Mr. Cofer was a resident of Sullivan at the time of the outbreak of the Civil war. He had watched with interest the progress of events in the south and when Fort Sumter was fired upon his patriotic spirit was aroused and he enlisted as a member of Company E, Twenty-first Illinois Infantry, on the 25th of May, 1861. The company was commanded by Captain Love. He served for three years and reenlisted as a veteran, becoming a member of the same company and regiment, with which he served until the close of the war, being mustered out at San Antonio, Texas, on the 16th of December, 1865. He received his final discharge at Camp Butler, Illinois, January 25, 1866. He had been for more than four years a faithful defender of the Union cause and had participated in various important engagements, including the battles of Perryville, Fredericksburg, Stone River, Chickamauga, the siege of Corinth, the Atlanta campaign, Kenesaw Mountain, the siege of Atlanta, Jonesboro, Franklin, Nashville and many skirmishes. On one occasion he was struck by a spent ball but otherwise escaped injury and at all times his military career was characterized by the utmost fidelity to duty, to which he never wavered though it stationed him on the firing line or upon the lonely picket line.

In September, 1866, Mr. Cofer was united in marriage to Miss Carolina Sawyer, who was born in Kentucky, April 7, 1843. Her parents were also natives of Kentucky, removing thence to Sullivan, Illinois, where the father died. The mother afterward became a resident of Decatur, where her death occurred. It was in this city that Mrs. Cofer passed away on the 22d of September, 1907. In the family were seven children. John F., who was born at Sullivan, January 30, 1868, is now in Canada. He married Ida Bowler, of Emden, and they had eight children: George, Ralph, Blanche, Glenn, Elven, Arthur and Amelia, all of whom are living; and Earl, who has passed away. Laura M., born May 2, 1873, in Sullivan, was married April 28, 1895, to Lincoln Powell, of Arthur, Illinois, who was born November 27, 1860, and died June 14, 1902. They were the parents of two children: Eva, born February 6, 1896, at Arthur; and Buell, born May 16, 1899, at Arthur. Charley, the third member of the family, was born at Sullivan, June 22, 1874, and married Nellie Hewett, of Lovington, Illinois. They have three children - Helen, Mildred and Hewett - and the family home is at Duquoin, Illinois. Frank, born at Sullivan, March 10, 1885, is living in Omaha, Nebraska. Omar C, born in Sullivan, March 17, 1888, resides in Jerome, Idaho.

For the support of his family Mr. Cofer long followed the occupation of farming and his labors were practical and progressive, bringing him in time a comfortable competence that now enables him to live retired. He is a member of Ionia Lodge, No. 312, A. F. & A. M., and of Dunham Post, No. 141, G. A. R. He also holds membership in the Cumberland Presbyterian church, while his children are members of the Central Christian church of Decatur. His political allegiance has ever been given to the republican party since he became a naturalized American citizen. During the period of his residence in Moultrie county he was for four years bailiff and also served as school director. Otherwise he has held no offices, preferring to concentrate his time and energies upon his business affairs. He is a man of good judgment and of enterprising spirit and his interest in the welfare and progress of his community has been manifest in many tangible ways. As a soldier of the Civil war the country owes to him a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid and in matters of citizenship he has been as loyal to the country in times of peace as when he followed the old flag upon southern battlefields.

Dr. Frederick J. Dudley, practicing medicine and surgery in Decatur, where his ability is accorded recognition in a large patronage, was born in Niagara county, New York, in January, 1858. His father, John A. Dudley, is a native of Guilford, Connecticut, and has devoted much of his life to stock-raising. He is now in his eighty-third year and makes his home in Whitewater, Wisconsin. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Henrietta M. Wright, was born in the Empire state about 1830. They were the parents of five sons, of whom one died in infancy. One son became a prominent attorney of the state of Washington, where he died when about twenty-seven years of age. Three of the number are still living: I. W., who is engaged in railroad business; Dr. Dudley, of this review; and Frank A. Dudley, who has been interested in the building of large hotels in Peoria, Illinois, Syracuse, New York, and other places. He is also the senior member of the firm of Dudley, Grey & Noonan, leading attorneys of Niagara Falls.