Decatur Township (part 27 of 46)

Reared in the faith of the whig party, Mr. Gorin gave to it his stalwart support until its dissolution, when he joined the ranks of the new republican party. Later, however, he became a prohibitionist, because of his attitude on the temperance question, believing it to be one of the paramount issues before the people. In 1856 he was elected as the republican candidate to the state legislature and while filling that position was made disbursing agent of the Fort Ridgely wagon road, which was being built for the government from St. Paul and Fort Ridgely to the Missouri river. During that period Mr. Gorin maintained an office in St. Paul but at the end of a year returned to Decatur. His interest in Masonry was never of a perfunctory character. He had firm faith in the basic principles of the order, recognizing the fact that the world would be better if all would recognize the brotherhood of mankind and the obligations imposed thereby. He joined Macon Lodge, No. 8, A. F. & A. M. on the 18th of October, 1841, and for a number of years prior to his death was the oldest and most honored member of that organization. He served as master of the lodge for seven years and was then elected grand master of the state. He also held membership in Macon Chapter, R. A. M., in which he served as high priest and in Beaumonoir Commandery, No. 9, K. T., of which he was eminent commander. In 1867 he was elected grand master of the grand lodge and in April, 1866, he joined the thirty-second degree of the Scottish Rite in the consistory in Chicago. He became the founder of the commandery in Olney, Illinois, on the 19th of January, 1865, and it was named Gorin Commandery in his honor. In various lines of Christian activity he was also a prominent figure and served almost continuously during his long connection therewith, as one of the officers of the First Methodist Episcopal church. He was thoroughly in sympathy with the organized work for the Christian instruction of the young, and not only did his labors prove effective in behalf of the local Sunday School Association but also in connection with the Sunday School Association of the state, which he served as president. He was likewise president of the County Sunday School Association and a member of its executive committee as well as a faithful worker in the Young Men's Christian Association. In all his Christian work he was ably assisted by his wife. Their married life was one of the closest harmony, each ever seeking the happiness of the other, and, therefore, their home life was of a most ideal character. The death of Mrs. Gorin occurred in 1894, while Mr. Gorin survived until the 1st of September, 1897. He was then almost eighty years of age and, with the exception of the first eleven years of his life the entire period was passed in Illinois. No one rejoiced more sincerely in the growth and upbuilding of the state. His activities touched the general interests of society in his work along material, fraternal, political and moral lines.

Few men active in business have so closely followed the golden rule or kept themselves unspotted from the world. His family was always first with him but public interests were near his heart. He displayed keen discernment and a faculty for separating the important features of any subject from the incidental or accidental circumstances. Moreover, he preserved the precious prize of keen mentality to the closing hours of his life. It was of such a type of man that Victor Hugo wrote when he said "though the frost of winter was on his head, the flowers of spring were in his heart."

Joseph N. Loving

Joseph N. Loving is a retired attorney living in Decatur. He is also an honored veteran of the Civil war, and his loyalty to his country has even been one of his strongly marked characteristics. His birth occurred in east Tennessee on Christmas day of 1842. His father, Garland Stephen Loving, a native of Virginia, was a farmer by occupation, and removed to Tennessee, where he was married to Euphemia Bowling, a native of that state. They remained residents of Tennessee for a number of years and then removed with their family in 1866 to Moultrie county, Illinois, where the death of the mother occurred on the 28th of February, 1895. She had long survived her husband who had died in Kentucky, January 14, 1875, while on a visit to a daughter in Pulaski county, that state. The Loving family is of Scotch lineage, and was founded in America by the grandfather of our subject, who was born in the land of hills and heather, and at an early period in the colonization of the new world crossed the Atlantic to become a resident of Virginia, where his remaining days were passed. The maternal grandfather was a native of Tennessee and there spent his entire life. In the family of Garland S. and Euphemia Loving there were eight children: James W., Margaret P., Benjamin F., Joseph N., Lurania Prudence, Rieta Catherine, George W. and John R. By a former marriage the father had three children, Ransom, William R. and Elizabeth J.

The educational advantages afforded Joseph N. Loving were extremely limited, but nature endowed him with strong intellect and a retentive memory and by study at home he prepared for admission to the bar. He then entered upon the practice of law, to which he devoted twenty years, and was accorded a liberal patronage, while his work in the courts showed clear reasoning and logical deductions. His professional services, however, were interrupted by his enlistment as a soldier of the Civil war, and on the 29th of September, 1861, he became a member of Company E, Twelfth Regiment of Kentucky Volunteers, joining the army in Clinton county, Kentucky. He remained with that command until honorably discharged, January 21, 1865, at Knoxville, Tennessee, receiving final payment in Nashville, that state. He was wounded in the left ankle at the siege of Knoxville in 1863 and was sent to the hospital, where he remained for about a month. Following his recovery from his injuries, he acted as clerk in the general headquarters at Knoxville and was one of those chosen to guard the body of General Zollecoffer, who was killed at the battle of Fishing Creek, being the first Confederate general that fell in service. Mr. Loving also participated in the battles of Fort Donelson and Perryville, was in various skirmishes and had many trying experiences. After the war he returned to his home in Columbia, Adair county, Kentucky.

Mr. Loving remained at home until he was forty-eight years of age. He was married in Springfield, Illinois, August 27, 1892, to Miss Mayme E. Snapp, a native of Coles county, Illinois. Her father, James M. Snapp, was born in Tennessee. Her grandfather came to Illinois during pioneer times and remained a resident of this state until his death. James M. Snapp followed farming as a life work and on his removel to Coles county secured a tract of land, which he cultivated until his removal to Shelby county, Illinois, where his last days were passed. In early manhood he wedded Mary E. Keller, who was born in Coles county, where she spent the greater part of her life, although her death occurred when she was a resident of Shelby county, Illinois. Her father had settled in this state in pioneer times. He became a soldier and lost his life during the war. There were ten children in the family of James M. and Mary E. Snapp: America; George N.; Hepsibah; William and Jacob, both of whom are now deceased ; Charles ; James ; Frank ; Mayme E. ; and Thomas J.

The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Loving has been blessed with two children : Beulah M., who was born May 12, 1896, in Dal ton City, Illinois; and Vivian S., who was born in Dalton City, December 11, 1898. They also lost one child, Mildred P., who was born June 20, 1903, and died five years later.

While living in Moultrie county, Mr. Loving filled the office of justice of the peace for fourteen years, proving a capable official, whose decisions were strictly fair and impartial. He also served as collector. He belongs to I. C. Pugh Post, G. A. R., No. 481, at Dalton City, and he and his family are members of the First Methodist Episcopal church of Decatur. They have resided in this city continuously since 1905, and are widely and favorably known here. Mr. Loving gives his political allegiance to the democracy, but was formerly a republican. However, he has largely voted independently, casting his ballot for the candidates whom he regards as best qualified for office. He is widely and favorably known in Decatur and Macon county and is held in high esteem by all with whom business or social relations have brought him in contact.

Guy Clark Heckel

Guy Clark Heckel, one of the enterprising and representative young agriculturists of Long Creek township, makes his home on section 14, where he is successfully engaged in the tilling of the soil and the raising of stock. His birth occurred in that township on the 24th of July, 1880, his parents being Charles A. and Ella (Clark) Heckel. The paternal grandfather, John Joseph Heckel, was born in Erfurt, Germany, on the 4th of May, 1810. He was educated at the celebrated Wittenberg University, became master of several languages, and all his life was a student and thinker. After serving for three years in the Prussian army he emigrated to the United States, settling in Long Creek township, Macon county, Illinois, about 1834. He located upon a small tract of rough land, which he gradually brought under a high state of cultivation, becoming one of the prosperous agriculturists of the community. The period of his residence in this county covered almost six decades, for he passed away here on the 6th of February, 1892, when eighty-two years of age. On the 3d of May, 1840, he had wedded Miss Elizabeth Hanks, whose birth occurred in Hardin county, Kentucky, April 23, 1822. She was a second cousin to Abraham Lincoln and a playmate of the future president in his early boyhood. Her demise occurred just four days prior to that of her husband.

Charles A. Heckel, the father of Guy Clark Heckel, is numbered among the worthy native sons of Macon county, having been born in Long Creek township in May, 1849. He has carried on general agricultural pursuits throughout his entire business career and is widely recognized as a prominent farmer and leading resident of that township. He is a well educated man, and for ten years preached the gospel as a minister of the Christian church. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Ella Clark, is a native of Ohio and a daughter of Milton and Sarah A. (Lee) Clark. Her mother was distantly related to the prominent and famous Lee family of Virginia.

Guy Clark Heckel, whose name introduces this review, obtained his early education in the public schools and afterward attended successively the college at Eureka, Lincoln University and the University of Lexington, Kentucky, being graduated from the last named institution with the class of 1900. The degree of Bachelor of Arts was conferred upon him when he attained his majority. He followed the insurance business for two years, but on the expiration of that period returned to this county and became identified with agricultural interests. The pursuits of farming and stock-raising have since claimed his attention and have returned to him a gratifying annual income. He has devoted his energies principally to the raising of horses, and is gradually extending his operations in this direction. He recognizes the need of larger and stronger horses for farm work, keeps Percheron stock and intends to purchase a large Belgian sire. He lives on his grandmother's farm of two hundred and eighty acres on section 14, Long Creek township, and as an agriculturist has already won a measure of success that entitles him to recognition among the substantial citizens of the community.

On the 16th of February, 1905, Mr. Heckel was united in marriage to Miss Mabel Baker, of Long Creek township, her parents being C. H. and Elizabeth (Williamson) Baker, natives of Ohio. Her father is a well known farmer here.

In politics Mr. Heckel is independent, supporting men and measures rather than party. For one term he ably discharged the duties devolving upon him in the capacity of township collector. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, belonging to Lodge No. 426 at Casner, and is likewise identified with the Modern Woodmen of America and the Kappa Sigma, a college fraternity. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Methodist church and he now acts as superintendent of its Sunday school. Mr. and Mrs. Heckel are people of the highest respectability and have a host of warm friends throughout the county.

For more than twenty years Dr. Everett J. Brown has engaged in active practice at Decatur. By diligent attention to his profession he has built up a practice which extends all over central Illinois and has acquired a reputation in his profession which is not confined to the limits of the state. The respect in which he is held by his brethren is shown by the fact that at the present time he occupies the position of treasurer of the Illinois State Medical Society and is ex-president of the Decatur Medical Society. These honors came without solicitation on his part and as a just recognition of one who has devoted his life to the alleviation of the ills of humanity. Dr. Brown comes well by the talents which have gained him his present honorable position. His father, Josiah Brown, was for thirty years a leading physician of Decatur and the mantle which he gracefully wore rests easily on the shoulders of his son.

Dr. Josiah Brown was born at Witby, Canada, July 24, 1827, and was a son of Abraham and Bethsheba Brown, descendants of Quaker parentage of New England. Early in life he decided to become a physician and all his studies were pursued with that object in view. The death of his father when the boy was twelve years of age threw him largely upon his own resources. But after acquiring the necessary funds by teaching school, he matriculated at the Augusta Medical College, Georgia, then one of the leading medical colleges of the country, and, after graduation, began practice at Gaylesville, Alabama. There he was married to Miss Sarah E. Brown. Removing to Illinois, the Doctor lived for two years at Maroa and then settled permanently at Decatur in 1859. He departed this life May 6, 1889, sincerely mourned by the entire community. He was a Mason, a republican, a member for more than twenty-five years of the Presbyterian church and an able and successful physician. His widow is still living. Six children were born to Dr. and Mrs. Brown: two children of whom died in infancy; Minnie S., who died in 1881 at the age of eighteen years; Warren, a practicing physician of Tacoma, Washington; Everett J., whose name appears at the head of this biography , and Frederick A., a practicing lawyer of Chicago.

Everett J. Brown is a native of Decatur, born January 20, 1865. He was educated in the public schools and graduated from the Decatur high school at the age of eighteen, in 1883. He studied medicine under his father and also in the medical department of the Northwestern University of Chicago, graduating in 1888. He was interne at the Cook County Hospital in 1888-9, and took a post-graduate course of six months in the general hospital at Vienna, Austria, in 1898. He again took a post-graduate course in the New York Polyclinic and Post Graduate Hospital and in 1908 visited Europe a second time to become acquainted with the most advanced ideas of the leading minds on medicine and surgery. Few men, as indicated above, have ever shown a greater interest in their chosen calling and no pains or time have been spared in the effort to solve the difficult problems that face the physician in his daily practice.

Since 1889 Dr. Brown has been actively engaged in practice in the town where he was born, except when pursuing advanced studies in New York city or Europe. He makes a specialty of internal medicine and is associated with Dr. Cecil M. Jack, under the firm name of Brown & Jack, his biography appearing elsewhere in this volume. The practice of the firm increased so rapidly during the last few years that larger accommondations became necessary and a handsome building was erected on West Prairie avenue opposite the Young Men's Christian Association, into which the firm moved in July, 1910. Here fourteen rooms are occupied, consisting of office and reception rooms, consultation rooms, laboratories, operating rooms, X-Ray room, dressing rooms and every possible requirement that modern minds have devised for the reception and treatment of patients. These offices and accessories are conceded to be among the finest and most complete that are to be desired and visitors are surprised at the facilities there available. The reputation of Dr. Brown has made his services in demand all over central Illinois as consultant in many cases requiring the best skill possible to secure.

D. Brown has been twice married. His first marriage was with Rebecca C. Brown of Jacksonville, Illinois, in October, 1891. Mrs. Brown departed this life February 22, 1906. Three children were born of the union : Rebecca Alice, Lloyd and Everett Anson. On the 1st of October, 1908, Dr. Brown was united in marriage to Miss Jane Jack of Peoria, Illinois. One son, Francis Jack Brown, is the result of this union.

Dr. Brown is a member of the Presbyterian church, as was his father before him, and also belongs to the American Medical Association, the Illinois State Medical Society, the Mississippi Valley Medical Society, the Tri-State Medical Society and the Decatur Medical Society. Although his extensive practice makes heavy demands on his time and strength, he holds membership in the University Club of Chicago and in the Decatur and Country Clubs of Decatur. He is also a member of the Knights of Pythias, whose principles of fidelity to promise and friendship in time of need he has many times exemplified.

The Doctor is a living example of the beneficient effect of right education and high ideals in the development of a useful and helpful career. In a striking degree we see here exemplified the refining influence of the home and the inviting field which is open in a free commonwealth to those who are rightly prepared and capable of bearing its honors. The position which has been attained by Dr. Brown has not come by chance but has called for years of patient study and faithful performance of duty as it appeared from day to day. No one knows this better than the practicing physician who gives a large part of his time to patients from whom he can expect small financial recompense or none at all. Yet he gives as freely and as conscientiously in such cases as if the patient were in the most affluent circumstances. Dr. Brown has endeared himself to people in all walks of life by his courteous manners, his liberality in support of all worthy causes and his skill in his profession. Hence he is usually recognized in central Illinois as among its most desirable citizens.

John W. Bowers

John W. Bowers, a representative and successful agriculturist of Long Creek township, is the owner of two hundred acres of valuable land on section 28, known as the Springwood Stock Farm. His birth occurred in Washington county, Illinois, on the 30th of April, 1867, his parents being James J. and Jane E. (Carpenter) Bowers, both of whom were natives of Kentucky. The father was born in 1822, while the mother's birth occurred in the year 1830. They took up their abode among the early settlers of Washington county, Illinois, in 1845. James J. Bowers carrying on general agricultural pursuits as a means of livelihood. He passed away in 1874, while his wife was called to her final rest in 1909.

John W. Bowers attended the public schools in the acquirement of an education and after putting aside his text-books began working as a farm hand. He had no financial assistance at the beginning of his career but possessed plenty of energy and determination and these qualities have enabled him to gradually advance toward the goal of prosperity. In 1888 he removed to Piatt county and there resided continuously until 1894. On coming to Long Creek township, Macon county, he purchased and located upon an improved farm of two hundred acres on section 28. Here he has carried on his agricultural interests continuously since and in connection with the tilling of the soil he also devotes considerable attention to the raising of stock, making a specialty of full blooded Hereford cattle and Poland China hogs. The property is known as the Springwood Stock Farm and is well improved in every particular, its neat and thrifty appearance indicating the supervision of a practical and progressive owner. Mr. Bowers, has thorough knowledge of both farming and stock-raising and is justly entitled to a place among the leading and substantial agriculturists of the community.

On the 19th of August, 1897, Mr. Bowers was united in marriage to Miss Lulu Kinser, a daughter of Lewis and Amanda (Turpin) Kinser, who were born in Ohio and Illinois respectively. The father was an early settler and prominent farmer of Mount Zion township, this county. Mr. and Mrs. Bowers now have five children, namely : Lucetta May, Florence, Ira John, Oliver, and Edith Jewel.

Politically Mr. Bowers is a prohibitionist, being a firm advocate of the temperance cause. At local elections, however, he casts an independent ballot, supporting the candidate whom he believes best qualified for the office in question. In religious faith he is a Methodist. His aid and cooperation can be counted upon to further every movement calculated to benefit the community, and he and his estimable wife are held in high regard by their many friends.

James B. Austin

James B. Austin, who has lived in honorable retirement at Maroa since 1892, came to Macon county in 1856 and was for many years successfully identified with agricultural interests here. His birth occurred in Greene county, Ohio, on the 29th of April, 1829. His father, Jonathan Austin, was born in New Jersey on the 15th of December, 1799. The paternal grandparents of our subject were Abel and Prudence Austin, who left New Jersey with their family and journeyed to Ohio, residing in that state throughout the remainder of their lives. The grandfather first took up land in Warren county, Ohio, but later removed to Greene county. Jonathan Austin, the father of James B. Austin, purchased land in Illinois in association with our subject but never came to this state, passing away in Ohio on the 20th of April, 1874. His children were four in number, as follows: Justin, a resident of Ohio; Harry, whose demise occurred in that state; John, living in Dayton, Ohio; and James B., of this review.

The last named remained under the parental roof until twenty-one years of age, assisting his father in the operation of the old home farm. He was married on attaining his majority and for about six years following that important event in his life he resided in Bellbrook, Ohio, following the profession of teaching. In 1856 he came direct to Macon county, Illinois, locating on a farm of three hundred and twenty acres which he had purchased in association with his father. He at once began the further cultivation and improvement of the tract of one hundred and sixty acres which was his share and there carried on his agricultural interests continuously until 1892, when he put aside the active work of the fields in order that he might the more thoroughly enjoy the competence which his well directed labor had brought him. Purchasing a lot in Maroa, he erected a commodious and attractive residence thereon and has made his home therein for the past eighteen years. He still retains his farm of one hundred and sixty acres and likewise owns two lots in the town of Maroa.

On the 4th of July, 1850, in Bellbrook, Ohio, Mr. Austin was united in marriage to Miss Phoebe Ann Dunham, a daughter of Jonas and Rachel Dunham, who were born in New Jersey. Mr. and Mrs. Austin were the parents of four children, namely: Charles, who is a resident of Allen county, Kansas; Mrs. Alice Rogers, who passed away in 1908 ; Frank, who lives with his father ; and Mrs. Anna Wendling, whose demise occurred in 1907. The wife and mother was called to her final rest on the 6th of April, 1902.

In politics Mr. Austin is a stanch republican and his fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, have called him to several positions of public trust. He has served as justice of the peace, has likewise acted in the capacity of assessor and was a school trustee. Fraternally he is identified with the Masons, belonging to Maroa Lodge, No. 454, A. F. & A. M. He has now passed the eighty-first milestone on life's journey and his career has ever been such that he can look back over the past without regret and forward to the future without fear. Macon county has been his home for fifty-four years and the circle of his friends here is a wide one.

James F. Steele

Among those whose deeds of valor have found place in the military history of Illinois is James F. Steele, of Decatur. His record cannot fail to prove of interest to the readers of this volume, for he is widely known in the city where he makes his home and in which he has a circle of friends almost coextensive with the circle of his acquaintances.

He was born in Springfield, Ohio, September 21, 1842, and in the paternal line comes of Irish ancestry. His grandfather was a native of Ireland, and on coming to America made his home in Bloomington, Illinois, with his daughter until called to his final rest at the very venerable age of ninety-seven years. His wife was seventy-two years of age at the time of her demise. Their son, Samuel Steele, was born in Virginia on the 19th of March, 1808, and in his boyhood days accompanied his parents on their removal from the Old Dominion to Pennsylvania, whence later the family went to Madison county, Ohio. It was in that county that he was married to Miss Prudence Fisher, who was born in 1801. Her parents were natives of Pennsylvania and removed from the Keystone state to Ohio at an early period in the development of the latter state. There Mr. Fisher died at the age of ninety-nine years, while his wife passed away at the age of seventy-two years. Following their marriage Samuel and Prudence (Fisher) Steele established their home in Springfield, Ohio, where they remained until 1857, when they came to Decatur, Illinois, here spending the residue of their days. The father died in June, 1877, and was laid to rest in the Decatur cemetery. For about eleven years he had survived his wife, who passed away in June, 1866. They had three sons who were soldiers in the Civil war, George R., Joseph and James.

Spending his youthful days in his parents' home in Ohio, James F. Steele attended the common schools of that state until he accompanied his parents on their removal to Illinois. After living for a short time at Bloomington, they came to Decatur. The father was a carpenter by trade and James F. Steele served an apprenticeship under him. He was learning the trade under the direction of his father when the Civil war broke out and President Lincoln issued his first call for troops.

Mr. Steele had watched with interest the progress of events in the South, and his patriotic spirit was aroused at the attempt of the Confederacy to overthrow the Union. Although but eighteen years of age at the time, he at once offered his services to the government and enlisted on the 16th of April, 1861 - when the smoke from Fort Sumter's guns had scarcely cleared away. He was mustered in at Springfield as a private of Company B, Eighth Illinois Infantry, for three months' service, for at that time it was the general belief that the war would soon be over. From Camp Yates the regiment was ordered to Cairo, where it remained doing camp duty until the expiration of the term of enlistment. Mr. Steele, however, at once reenlisted on the 14th of August and again became a member of the Eighth Illinois regiment for three years' service. A contemporary biographer concerning Mr. Steele's military experience has written: "The regiment remained at Cairo until late in the fall, when it was ordered to Bird's Point, from there to Norfolk, where it made camp and remained for some time, and then returned to Bird's Point and went into winter quarters. On the 2d of February, 1862, the regiment embarked at Cairo and moved up the Tennessee to Fort Henry with General Grant's forces, where they disembarked and the first night Mr. Steele was placed on picket duty. It rained all night and he had to stand on logs to keep out of the water. In the morning they broke camp and started for the fort, making a detour of some six miles. In this march mountain streams were waded from knee to waist deep with a swift current. When he reached the fort he exchanged his wet uniform clothes for a citizens' suit, which he wore all through the Fort Donelson campaign, where he was actively engaged in an assault of that fort, being then in the First Brigade, McClernand's Division. On the arrival at the fort the Eighth had some skirmishing with the rebel pickets, and then formed in lines around the fort. The following night Mr. Steele was sent out as one of the pickets with instructions not to fire unless he saw the enemy advancing. The weather at first was pleasant, but before the siege was over it grew cold, rained, snowed and became very bad, and the soldiers suffered terribly, as they were not allowed any fire. What sleep the men had was secured in a standing position. Friday was spent mostly in skirmishing and maneuvering. On Saturday morning the enemy made an assault on the lines but were repulsed, which brought on a general engagement around the entire line, in which the Eighth lost severely. This was the first active fight Mr. Steele had been in, and his fighting metal was severely tested. His regiment was changed from the right to the left and was under W. H. L. Wallace. Late in the day they received rations for the first time in two days. Night closed in with the enemy unsubdued and the Union troops rested on their arms. Early Sunday morning the white flag was seen to float from the enemy's works. Fort Donelson surrendered and the Union forces took possession of the work and remained in camp for a time and then marched to Fort Henry, where they embarked for Savannah, thence proceeded to Pittsburg Landing and went into camp about half a mile from Shiloh church. There Mr. Steele lay with his regiment until he was unexpectedly called out by the long roll, crossed the road leading to Corinth and formed in line of battle to the left in the edge of the timber, where they remained for a while with the bullets of the enemy passing over them from the fighting in front. They moved down and then opened fire; shortly the front line fell back and Mr. Steele with fifty of his regiment were left alone. They soon fell back but with lines badly broken, while the enemy's lines were intact. They soon formed, however, and checked the advance of the rebels, getting behind a road fence where they made a stubborn resistance and did some gallant fighting. His regiment was now consolidated with the Eighteenth Illinois, having about one hundred and fifty men, and were commanded by General Lieb. They charged the enemy and captured two guns. They lay on their arms during the entire night in a heavy rain, had had nothing to eat since the night before, having gone into action in the morning before breakfast. The next morning Buell's army passed them and soon opened the battle which relieved Mr. Steele and his command from active duty. Soon after the battle he was taken ill, which illness developed into typhoid fever. He was conveyed to a hospital tent, where he was left for a time, and then placed on board of a hospital boat which took him to Quincy. There he remained until he was able to be moved, when his father came and took him home to Decatur. He rejoined his regiment in July at Jackson, Tennessee. From there the regiment was ordered to Toons Station to guard the railroad, where it remained until it was ordered on the Tallahatchie campaign. It was found that Mr. Steele was unfit for active duty with his company on account of lingering illness, and he was detailed for duty in the quartermaster's department of McPherson's corps. He remained in this service until he was captured at Holly Springs, December 20, 1862, by Van Dorn's forces with all the stores at that place. There was no defense made. A few companies of the Second Illinois Cavalry under Major McPherson got out with little loss. Mr. Steele was paroled, sent to Memphis and from there to Benton Barracks, spending a portion of the time under parole at Decatur, but reporting every two weeks at parole camp. He finally received permission to go home and report by letter every ten days. He remained at home until June 20, 1863, when he went to Benton Barracks and from there was sent to Vicksburg, thence up the Yazoo, arriving at their point of destination on the evening of July 3. Cannonading was still going on when they landed but had ceased before they were unloaded, by reason of the flag of truce raised on the enemy's works. On the morning of July 4, Mr. Steele rode into Vicksburg with General McPherson's staff officers. August 1st he was assigned to duty by Colonel Coolbaugh as agent of the railroad at Big Black, where his duties were about the same as an agent in the civil service. He remained on duty there until June 1st, when the government abandoned the road and he was ordered to report to General McPherson's headquarters, then at Big Shanty, Georgia, and was detailed in the mail service, carrying mail from Chattanooga to the general's headquarters. He continued in this mail service until the death of McPherson, and then brought his horse as far as Louisville and was there ordered to report to the regiment at Vicksburg. He waited there for a time for the regiment and then intercepted it and was mustered out August 15, 1864, by reason of expiration of term of service. His next move was to Natchez, where he engaged with a sutler for a time and then went to New Orleans."

When the war was over and the country no longer needed his aid, Mr. Steele returned to Decatur, in June, 1865, and has since made his home in this city. On the 16th of October, 1870, he was united in marriage to Miss Mary Ganley, of this city, who was born in Ireland. They became the parents of one child, Stasia.

The rigors and hardships of war greatly undermined Mr. Steele's health, and since 1882 the government has given him a pension. His political views have ever been in accord with the principles of the republican party, and on the 6th of April, 1910, he was elected to the position of town clerk of Decatur, in which capacity he is now acceptably serving. On the 18th of April, 1866, he became a member of Original Post, No. 1, G. A. R. This organization ceased to exist in 1869, and in 1888 he joined Dunham Post, with which he is now identified. In 1893 he was elected senior vice commander and thus served for a year. He was afterward elected commander for a year and served as officer of the day for four years. He was then chosen to the position of adjutant and has acted in that capacity for a long period, being the present incumbent. He is very popular and prominent among his fellow members of the Grand Army post and throughout the community is known as a genial gentleman, whose many sterling characteristics have won him the high regard of all with whom he has come in contact. During his long residence in Decatur he has become widely known, and all speak of him in terms of high regard.

John W. Duvall

Indomitable energy and unfaltering perseverance, when guided by careful, conservative management of business affairs, seldom fail in the acquirement of success, and such has been the record of John W. Duvall. Self-made and almost wholly self-educated, he has, during the years of his active connection with business interests, worked his way forward until today he is ranked among the most substantial and prosperous residents of Whitmore township. One of Ohio's native sons, he was born in Belmont county on the 14th of July, 1848, and is a son of Elihu Duvall, who, although born in Pennsylvania, was reared in the Buckeye state, to which his parents had removed in his early childhood. The family home was established in Belmont county, and there he grew to manhood and was married. For some years he was identified with agricultural pursuits in that locality and then, in 1857, came to Illinois, making permanent location in Macon county. The winter of that year was spent in Decatur, and in 1858 the family took up their abode in Whitmore township, where the father was engaged in operating a rented farm for a few years. Later he purchased eighty acres of wild prairie land, which formed the nucleus of what later became the Duvall homestead. Bending his efforts to its development and improvement, it was not long before he had converted the tract into productive fields which he continued to cultivate until his death, which occurred in 1863. He was long survived by his wife who, in her maidenhood, was Castary Jones, a native of Ohio.

Coming to Macon county as a lad of nine years, John W. Duvall has, therefore, spent almost his entire life within its borders. The educational privileges afforded him were limited to those offered by the district schools of that day, which he attended during the winter months, but it is principally to his later reading and observation that he owes his present broad and comprehensive knowledge. His early practical training, however, was not neglected, and in the fields and about the home farm he spent the seasons of vacation, becoming familiar with the tasks that usually fall to the country lad. Amid the busy activities of rural life he also learned many lessons concerning the value of industry, perseverance and integrity, and the wholesome environment of the farm was conductive to a healthy growth and the acquirement of good habits. He continued to live on the old homestead, to which he succeeded at the time of his father's demise and in the cultivation of which he has since been engaged. From time to time, as fortune favored, he invested in more property adjoining the original farm on the east, and is today the owner of two hundred and eighty acres of rich and valuable land. In 1904 he erected a neat, up-to-date residence equipped with all of the most modern improvements including furnace heat, gas light and hot and cold running water and surrounded by a neat lawn inclosed within an iron fence. He also has built substantial barns and commodious outbuildings, and well kept fences protect his fields. In fact the farm is one of the best tilled and highly improved properties in the township and stands as a monument to a life of well directed effort and intelligently applied labor. Tilling the soil, however, has not been his only vocation, for he has given considerable time and attention to successful stock-raising interests, raising and feeding cattle, hogs and horses. He makes a specialty of hogs and horses, and the superior quality of his stock commands ready sales and good prices on the market.

It was in 1882 that Mr. Duvall was united in marriage to Miss Alice Vulgamott, who was born and reared in Macon county and is a daughter of John Vulgamott, a native of Ohio. She passed away in March, 1899, and was laid to rest in Union cemetery. Besides her husband, seven children survived to mourn her loss, three sons and four daughters, as follows : J. W., Jr., a business man of Decatur; Dollie, at home, who took the census of Friends Creek township in 1910; Nellie, who is keeping house for her father; Fay, who received thorough comprehensive training in the State Normal School and is now engaged in teaching in Macon county ; Wilbur, Anna and Russell E., all at home.

Mr. Duvall is a member of the Argenta Presbyterian church, as was also his wife, and in the public life of the community he has been a prominent figure. A stanch advocate of the principles of the republican party, he has voted for every presidential nominee on that ticket since casting his first vote for General U. S. Grant. His standing among his fellow citizens is indicated by the fact that he has again and again been called to accept public office, serving on the township board as assessor for four consecutive years and as township trustee for six years. In 1910 he was elected supervisor of the township and is now filling that position. He has served on the petit jury, has been sent as delegate to various county conventions, has served for years as township committeeman and is now a member of the committee on roads and bridges. That he is a stalwart champion of the cause of education is indicated by the fact that he has been identified with the schools of the county as director for the past twenty years. The same qualities which made him a successful business man have characterized his public service and the promptness and thoroughness with which he has fulfilled the duties of each office in which he has served have won him the approval and commendation of every citizen, regardless of party ties. Publicspirited and progressive in his citizenship, no measure or movement which has for its object the material, political, intellectual or moral development and upbuilding of the community lacks his hearty cooperation.

A long residence in Macon county has made J. W. Duvall widely and favorably known to a large circle of friends which is almost coextensive with the circle of his acquaintances, and he is recognized as one of the most progressive, substantial and successful business men of the locality. His personal traits of character are such as speak for valuable and desirable citizenship in any community, and in both public and private life by the consensus of public opinion he has been tried and not found wanting.

Leonard A. Wagoner

Leonard A. Wagoner is one of the well known farmers and stock-raisers of Oakley township, owning and cultivating a tract of land of one hundred and sixty acres on section 6 and also an equal amount on section 7. He also has another tract of eighty acres on section 6, his possessions therefore ag-' gregating four hundred acres. He is numbered among the early settlers of this part of Illinois in that he has been a resident of Macon county since 1865. He was born in Carroll county, Indiana, July 16, 1853, and is a son of John Wagoner, who was born in the Hoosier state and was there married to Miss Barbara Blickenstaff, who removed to Indiana from Ohio. The father was a farmer in Carroll county, thus providing for the support of his family, which included three children. Subsequently he removed to Iowa, but soon returned to Indiana, and in 1865 came to Macon county, subsequently settling upon the farm where his son Leonard now resides. He cultivated this place for a num- ber of years and the family was reared on the home farm. Following her husbands' death, Mrs. Wagoner removed to Cerro Gordo, where she spent her last years, dying there about 1904. In the family were four sons and two daughters : Leonard A. ; Daniel, now living in Indiana ; Noah, who reached mature years and was married but is now deceased; Isaiah, living in Idaho; Katie, the wife of John M. Shibely, of Long Beach, California; and Amanda, the wife of J. B. Metzger, of Cerro Gordo.

Leonard A. Wagoner was reared on the old home farm, having been a resident of Macon county from the age of twelve years. He remained with his mother until he had attained his majority and largely assisted her in the work incident to the development and improvement of the place. He was married in Cerro Gordo township, in 1882, to Miss Martha Miser, who was born in Indiana but was reared in Illinois. Following his marriage, he purchased seventy acres of land in Long Creek township and turned his attention to its cultivation. He made some improvements upon that place and continued to till the fields for nine years. He then sold out and returned to the old homestead. He began here with one hundred and twenty acres, which he brought under a high state of cultivation and improved with modern equipments. From time to time he has added to this property until he now owns four hundred acres, all of which is fine farm land. It responds readily to the care and labor which he bestows upon it, and his property is now one of the excellent farms of this part of the county.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Wagoner have been born two sons and two daughters : William, who is cultivating his father's place of one hundred and sixty acres on section 7; David B., who was educated at Mount Morris, Illinois, and aids in carrying on the home farm ; Ida May, at home ; and Cora Fay. Both daughters were also educated at Mount Morris. Another daughter, Dora, died at the age of fifteen months and one daughter in infancy. In his political views Mr. Wagoner is a republican but has never sought or desired office. His religious faith is that of the Church of the Brethren and his membership is in the Brick church. He has been a resident of the county for forty-five years and is numbered among its active and prosperous citizens, possessing good business ability and at all times enjoying the confidence and esteem of his fellowmen because his business activity balances up with the principles of truth and honor.

Oscar B. Cross

Oscar B. Cross, who was elected overseer of the poor of Macon county on the 20th of October, 1910, has already proven himself well fitted for the position. His birth occurred in Christian county, Illinois, on the 13th of June, 1858, his parents being J. Wilson and Sarah A. (Hurst) Cross, both of whom are deceased. They passed away in Christian county, the father dying on the 24th of September, 1909, while the mother was called to her final rest in 1894. They reared a family of seven children, five of whom are yet living, as follows: Mrs. D. J. Cartwright, who is a resident of Blue Mound township, this county; Mrs. Mary M. Duff, of Sangamon county; Oscar B., of this review; Mrs. A. E. McMillan, likewise of Blue Mound township; and L. T., who follows farming in Harristown township, Macon county.

Oscar B. Cross was reared to manhood on the farm where his birth occurred and attended the district schools in the acquirement of an education. He came to Decatur in August, 1892, and on the 20th of June of the following year was appointed patrolman under Mayor D. C. Moffitt. He served as an efficient officer of the police department until December 6, 1910, when he was suspended by the present mayor, C. M. Borchers. As police officer he served continuously under the following mayors : D. C. Moffitt, D. H. Lehman Conklin, B. Z. Taylor, G. W. Stadler, C. F. Shilling, E. F. G. W. McDonald and C. M. Borchers. During his service as a patrolman he remained on one beat on Franklin street for eight years, his being the roughest patrol in the city. In addition to his duties in this connection, he has served the Powers Opera House as an officer each evening for eleven years, still holding that position at the present time. He is justly proud of his career as a policeman, having a clear record and having never been called before a mayor or chief of police for conduct unbecoming an officer. On the 20th of October, 1910, he was elected overseer of the poor of Macon county, being one of nine candidates and receiving sixteen votes out of the twenty-two cast by the supervisors of this county. He was elected to fill the vacancy caused by the death of R. J. Roberts, a pioneer of Decatur. His record as a public official also covers five years' service in the capacity of health officer.

Mr. Cross has been twice married and is the father of five children, his eldest son being Lyman C. Cross, who was born of the first marriage. For his second wife he chose Miss Laura Harris, a native of Kentucky, by whom he has the following children : Sarah A. ; Lloyd Wilson ; Russell S. ; and James Nelson, named in honor of Judge William E. Nelson, who performed the marriage ceremony in Decatur. Fraternally Mr. Cross is identified with the Modern Woodmen of America, belonging to Camp No. 144, and also to the encampment. His fellow townsmen entertain for him warm friendship and kindly regard, and he is highly esteemed by all who know him.

Leonard H. Cassity

Leonard H. Cassity, a prosperous and representative citizen of Decatur, is at the head of the Cassity Electric Company, doing contract work and dealing in general electrical supplies. His place of business is located at No. 357 North Main street and his home is at No. 1330 North College street. His birth occurred in Lucas County, Iowa, on the 30th of December, 1876, his parents being J. C. and Eliza (Allen) Cassity. The father, who was born in Indiana in 1856, accompanied his parents on their removal to Iowa when nine years of age and has since been a resident of that state. The pursuits of farming and stock-raising have claimed his attention throughout his entire business career and he still de- votes his time and energies to the work of the fields with excellent results. His wife, who was the second in order of birth in a family of twelve children, was born in Iowa, March 28, 1859, and passed away on the 1st of January, 1897. Our subject is the elder of two children, his sister being Ethel A., who was born August 28, 1881, and makes her home with her father.

Leonard H. Cassity obtained his early education in the public schools of Chariton, Iowa, graduating therefrom in 1897. Later he spent a year in Parsons College of Fairfield, Iowa, and then studied in James Millikin University of Decatur for two years. After completing his education he entered the service of the Western Electric Company at Chicago, remaining in the employ of that concern for four years. On the expiration of that period he returned to Decatur and on the 15th of December, 1908, embarked in business on his own account, opening an office in the Home Telephone building at No. 219 North Main street. On the 15th of February, 1910, he removed to his present location at No. 357 North Main street and is now conducting a good business, doing contract work and dealing in general electrical supplies. He keeps in touch with the notable progress that is manifest in the electrical world and is qualified to put his knowledge and ideas into practical use in the conduct of the business in which he is now engaged. His enterprise is incorporated under the name of the Cassity Electric Company.

In 1907 Mr. Cassity was united in marriage to Miss Ola Mcintosh, a daughter of T. R. and Mary Mcintosh, residing near Forsyth, Illinois. She was the eldest child in a family of three children, having been born January 16, 1884. Mr. and Mrs. Cassity now have two children, namely: Ronald, whose natal day was March 15, 1908; and Carroll, whose birth occurred December 15, 1909.

In politics Mr. Cassity is a republican, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Presbyterian church of Russell, Iowa. He is likewise a worthy exemplar of the Masonic fraternity and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, belonging to Lodge No. 614, A. F. & A. M., at Forrest, Illinois, and Decatur Lodge, No. 85, I. O. O. F. His life is upright and honorable, his many good qualities winning for him the high regard of all who know him.

Martin E. Connard

Martin E. Connard, a prosperous and leading resident of Elwin, is successfully engaged in business as a grain merchant. He is numbered among the worthy native sons of this county, his birth having here occurred on the 16th of May, 1868. His father, Charles E. Connard, who was born in Montgomery county, Pennsylvania, on the 6th of November, 1829, was a son of John and Dorothy (Schriver) Connard and a grandson of Ebenezer Connard. The last named was a native of Bucks county, Pennsylvania, and came of German ancestry. Charles E. Connard, the father of our subject, was the eldest child and only son in a family of five children, his sisters being Hannah, Sarah Ann, Catharine and Angeline, all of whom are deceased. In 1840 he came to Illinois with his parents, locating on the farm near Elwin which remained his place of abode during the rest of his life. General agricultural pursuits claimed his attention throughout his entire business career and during the last thirty years of his life he was likewise actively engaged in the grain business, being associated with his sons in that business. He was uniformly respected and esteemed and became widely recognized as one of the substantial and progressive citizens of the county. At the time of his arrival this state was still but sparsely settled and largely undeveloped, and the work of progress and improvement remained to the future. During his lifetime Mr. Connard not only witnessed a most wonderful transformation but largely aided in the labors which transformed the wild tract into a splendid commonwealth. He became a charter member of the Elwin Methodist church in 1849 and for sixty years acted as one of its stewards, holding that position at the time of his demise, which occurred on the 27th of September, 1899. The farm on which he passed away had been his home for a period of fifty-eight years. In 1855 he had wedded Miss Nancy N. Eager, by whom he had nine children, of whom our subject was the sixth in order of birth. The wife and mother was called to her final rest on the 30th of September, 1878, and the following year Mr. Connard was again married, his second union being with Miss Elizabeth J. Rozzel, of Macon county, by whom he had three children.

Martin E. Connard obtained his early education in the public schools of this state and later spent part of a year as a student in the Northern Illinois Normal School at Dixon. After putting aside his text-books he entered the grain establishment of his father and brother at Elwin and in 1897 purchased an interest in the business and has since had charge thereof. After the father's death he and his brother, G. S. Connard, of Decatur, bought the interest of the other heirs in the grain business and now control the business. In the spring of 1902 Mr. Connard of this review organized a telephone system, building lines through the country districts. In May, 1910, however, he sold out to the Macon County Telephone Company, of Decatur, and at that time had one hundred and sixty-five subscribers. He still owns stocks and bonds in that concern, however, and likewise inherited a part of his father's estate, which has not yet been settled. In 1902 he erected a beautiful modern residence in Elwin and has since made his home therein. His connection with any undertaking insures a prosperous outcome of the same, for it it in his nature to carry forward to successful completion whatever he is associated with. He has earned for himself an enviable reputation as a careful man of business, and in his dealings is known for his prompt and honorable methods, which have won him the deserved and unbounded confidence of his fellowmen.

On the 30th of June, 1898, Mr. Connard was joined in wedlock to Miss May Hopkins, who was born on the 20th of February, 1876, her parents being Samuel S. and Emmaretta (Williams) Hopkins, natives of Ohio. Our subject and his wife now have two children, namely: Lucile, whose birth occurred in March, 1899, and Harold, whose natal day was July 20, 1900.

In politics Mr. Connard is a republican and for the past three years has capably served in the office of town clerk. He acts as recording steward in the

Methodist church at Elwin and his wife is also a devoted member thereof. That many of his stanchest friends are numbered among those who have known him from his boyhood to the present time is an indication that his has been an honorable, upright life and one worthy of the esteem in which he is uniformly held.

Edmond S. Baker

Edmond S. Baker, manager of Dreamland Park and one of the well-to-do and popular citizens of Decatur, was born on a farm near Warsaw, Indiana, July 5, 1850. He is the son of Jacob S. and Elizabeth A. (Leathers) Baker, and is the third in a family of five children who grew to maturity. His father died at Salem, Illinois, in 1872, but his mother is still living in Decatur at the advanced age of ninety-four years. Jacob L. Baker, a brother of our subject, was a valiant soldier of the Civil war, first enlisting for three months but at the expiration of that term reenlisting for three years. The war being still in progress when he received his second discharge, he enlisted once more and served until after the rebellion had been entirely suppressed. He was a real fighter and was slightly wounded once, and at another time was captured by the enemy, but made his escape. He came to Decatur and here he died. Henry A. Baker, another brother, was also a soldier. He served in the artillery and was injured while in the discharge of duty. He served as clerk in the barracks for a time after his partial recovery but was later honorably discharged from the army. After returning home he recovered his strength and organized a military company, of which he was elected first lieutenant. He served in a creditable manner until the close of the war, and after the return of peace studied medicine at Louisville, Kentucky, and is now in practice at Decatur.

At six years of age Edmond S. Baker moved with his parents to Summit county, Ohio, where the father became the owner of a mill four miles from the city of Akron. There our subject grew to manhood and received a common school education, preparatory to his introduction to the stern realities of life. As a boy he learned the milling business at his father's mill, but in 1865 the family settled in Marion county, this state, where he became acquainted with the father of William Jennings Bryan. At eighteen years of age he began work for himself, receiving thirteen dollars a month, and later took charge of a mill owned by his father, which was operated by water and which he conducted for about two years. After the death of his father, he removed to Christian county and at twenty-six years of age was married, his father-in-law presenting him and his wife with a farm of one hundred and sixty acres. However, not feeling entirely in sympathy with agricultural pursuits, he sold the farm and entered the livery business at Decatur in 1885, which he conducted with marked success for about ten years. Since 1908 Mr. Baker has been manager of Dreamland Park, one of the beautiful resorts of the city, covering ten acres, of which he was formerly the owner and where he made his summer home. The park had been in operation several years before he assumed its management, and from the time of its inception, he has been one of its heavy stockholders. Previous to the time of his assuming the management, the park had been a losing proposition for the stockholders, being in debt almost fifteen thousand dollars at the beginning of the season of 1908. Under Mr. Baker's management all of this indebtedness has been paid except four thousand dollars at the close of the season of 1910, this after paying all running expenses, upkeep of buildings, etc., and also building and fully equipping one of the largest roller skating rink in central Illinois.

In February, 1876, Mr. Baker was united in marriage to Miss Frances E. Osborne, a daughter of Robert and Phoebe Osborne, of Christian county. Mr. and Mrs. Baker are both members of the Methodist Episcopal church and his wife was organist, while he sang in the choir previous to their coming to Decatur. He affiliates with the republican party, but has strong independent tendencies, often voting for the man, irrespective of his political associations. Socially he is connected with the Knights of Pythias and the Modern Woodmen of America, and is in hearty accord with the fraternal teachings of those orders. Mr. Baker has made many friends by his genial manners and public spirit, and is greatly respected wherever he is known.

Edgar Hoots

Edgar Hoots, recognized as a public-spirited citizen of Macon county, has for the past two years been a member of the county board and received endorsement of his first term's service in a reelection in the spring of 1910. Macon county numbers him among her native sons, his birth having occurred near Oakley on the 9th of December, 1872. His father, Alexander Hoots, was born in Tennessee and was a son of John Hoots, likewise a native of that state. He and his family removed to Illinois about 1855, settling in this county, where Alexander Hoots was reared to manhood. Later he married Louisa Haney, a native of Illinois. To provide for his family he followed the blacksmith's trade, conducting a shop in Oakley for a number of years. His last days were here passed, his death occurring April 13, 1909, when he was sixtythree years of age.

Edgar Hoots, one of a family of five sons and one daughter, was reared in Macon county and educated in the common schools. Early in life he began clerking and was thus employed for a few years, receiving a good practical business training. He later learned the blacksmith's trade, which he followed for seven years at Milmine, Illinois. In 1901 he opened a shop at Oakley and began work at his trade here on his own account. He is a natural mechanic, very handy with tools, and does with expert ability any work in his line. He has in his smithy an engine and machinery and is therefore prepared for various kinds of work. In this connection he has built up a good business, having now a liberal and well merited patronage.

On the 14th of September, 1896, in Oakley, Mr. Hoots was married to Miss Minnie Williams, who was here born and reared. They have four sons: Herman, Melvin, Harold and Virgil. In politics Mr. Hoots has been a lifelong republican and his fellow townsmen, appreciative of his worth and ability, nominated and elected him to the position of supervisor from Oakley township in 1908, and in 1910 reelected him. He has been a member of the county board for over two years and is proving capable and faithful in the discharge of his duties. He belongs to the Modern Woodmen camp and has served as its secretary for seven years. He also has membership relations with the Odd Fellows, joining the lodge at Cerro Gordo, where he filled all of , the chairs. He started in life a poor boy without capital and his success has been won through his own efforts. He is not only a good workman, but is also a man of business integrity and reliability and enjoys the confidence and good will of the entire community.

William E. Redmon

William E. Redmon, state's attorney of Macon county, is a native son of Illinois, who won his way by faithful service to the responsible position he occupies and has discharged its duties in such a way as to meet the approval of all political parties and the high regard of the best citizens in every walk of life. He was born in Jasper county, Illinois, on the 25th of May, 1859. His parents, John W. and Martha (Wheeler) Redmon, were both born in Richland county, this state, of pioneer parents who were among the very early settlers of Macon county. The grandparents on the Redmon side were natives of Hardin county, Kentucky. The history of the family goes to show that they were married in that county and on the next day started on a wedding trip with an ox team through the almost untrodden forest and across stream and prairie to Richland county, Illinois, where they entered government land, upon which they lived until their death. This brave couple endured all the pioneer hardships. Grandmother Redmon was one of the remarkable women of the times and lived to be four score years of age. She was born in 1810 and died in 1891. Grandfather Wheeler was a native of Vermont and his wife was from Kentucky. Upon coming to Illinois, then upon the frontier, he first located at Alton and became connected with the river traffic, making several trips to New Orleans, where his father died of yellow fever. He also preempted government land in Richland county and lived there until his death.

John W. Redmon, the father of William E. Redmon, was a farmer and stock- raiser of Jasper county, Illinois. He died December 26, 1891, at Normal, Illinois, where he was living temporarily for the purpose of educating his children. The mother is still living and resides with a son and daughter at Oakland, California. She has reached the age of seventy-four years, and is greatly loved by her children and respected by friends who know of her sterling qualities. Five sons and four daughters were born unto Mr. and Mrs. Redmon : Mary A., the wife of George W. Beavers, of Marshall county, Kansas; William E., the subject of this record; Elizabeth, the wife of John W. Stitt, living near Toledo, Illinois; Daniel B. ; James T., of Oakland, California; Catharine, the wife of Columbus Wolfe, living near Oakland, California; Eva, the wife of I. N. Warner, of Wisconsin; John A., residing at Berkeley, California; and Jesse, who died in infancy.

Born and reared on a farm, William E. Redmon is essentially a product of conditions that have produced much of the brain and sinew of our country. He attended the country schools in winter and worked on the farm in summer. His early life was spent largely out of doors in close contact with nature, whose moods he learned to interpret and whose charms he freely acknowledges. He attended the State Normal School at Carbondale and also taught school in Cumberland, Jasper and Richland counties, reading law on holidays, Saturdays, and at night. After the requisite period of study in the office of Hon. John Packard, of Olney, Illinois, he was admitted to the bar in 1888 and at once began practice at Latham, Illinois. Here he continued for four years, then removing to Decatur, where he has since continued. In 1900 he was elected state's attorney and was twice reelected - in 1904 and 1908, his present term expiring in 1912. This is the only public office Mr. Redmon has ever filled. His honest and impartial discharge of responsibilities of the position has met with cordial cooperation and acceptance and his record is one which he can regard with pride.

On January 31, 1882, Mr. Redmon was united in marriage to Miss Delia Wilkerson, of Richland county, and two sons and five daughters have been born to them: Minnie B., Roscoe W., James, Ralph, Blanche, Blossom, Martha and Mary. Mrs. Redmon and daughters are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and the home of the Redmon family is the abode of peace and contentment. Mr. Redmon is a man of broad sympathies who quickly responds to all calls, from whatsoever direction, that deserve recognition. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias and Modern Woodmen of America. He has always been unassuming in manner and his aim has been to acquit himself as one who recognizes justice and right and whose highest desire is to perform his duty from day to day as he sees it. His life has been conducted entirely upon constructive principles, and he long since learned that the superior man is the one who has the superior mind. These are the lessons he strives to impress upon his children and it is the idea here conveyed that has gained for him an honored place in the esteem of the people of the wide region throughout which he is known.

William B. Robinson

William B. Robinson, residing at 875 West Wood street, Decatur, is one of the valiant men who responded to the call of duty nearly half a century ago and went to the front to assist in the battle for the Union. Little did he dream at the time of his enlistment of the sufferings on the march or in prison which he later endured; but his courage never failed even under the most distressing circumstances and he lived to receive an honorable discharge at the close of the war.

He was born in Buffalohart, Sangamon county, Illinois, May 29, 1838, and is a son of James T. and Minerva (Starr) Robinson, the former of whom was born in Yorkshire, England, January 21, 1808. At twenty-one years of age the father settled in Sangamon county and there he lived until 1872, when he was called away. The mother was born in Clark county, Kentucky, January 9, 181 5, and died at the old home in Sangamon county. Grandfather Robinson was a native of England and grandfather Starr of Virginia. The latter was born in 1777 and emigrated to Kentucky, where he married Mary Carson, a native of Baltimore, Maryland. They came to Illinois in the great movement which continued for many years from the south and gave to this state many of its best citizens. Grandfather Starr died August 15, 1839, and his widow thirteen years later, in 1852.

The subject of this review was educated in the public schools of Sangamon county and continued upon the home farm assisting in its operations until he was twenty-four years of age. On August 25, 1862, he enlisted in Company I, One Hundred and Fourteenth Illinois Infantry, and was mustered in at Camp Butler, Illinois, under Captain King, who was later promoted to a colonelcy. The regiment participated in many of the great battles and expeditions of the Army of the West and our subject was present at the battle of Jackson, Mississippi, for eight days at the siege of Vicksburg and at the battle of Guntown, also taking part in many skirmishes. On June 10, 1864, during the battle of Guntown, he was captured and with a number of his companions was sent to Andersonville Prison. Here he remained for three months when he was conducted to Savannah, then to Millen, back to Savannah and later to Florence, South Carolina, where he spent a second period of three months behind the stockade. On the approach of Sherman's army the prisoners were removed to Goldsboro, North Carolina, and on February 25, 1865, our subject was paroled and the next day released at Wilmington, North Carolina. He experienced many great sufferings, but being blessed with a strong constitution he was able to withstand the hardships of prison life although many of his comrades succumbed. He was in the hands of the enemy from June 10, 1864, until February of the following year, a period of more than eight months. After spending a short time on furlough at home he was ordered to St. Louis, where he was honorably discharged, the war having come to an end. Returning once more to Illinois Mr. Robinson resumed touch with the affairs of private life and after acquiring a competence located in Decatur, where for some years he has lived retired.

On the 2 1 st of February, 1867, our subject was united in marriage to Miss Arminda Burns, who was born in Sangamon county, December 30, 1844. She is a daughter of John R. and Lucy A. (Cass) Burns, the former of whom was born in Jessamine county, Kentucky, October 9, 1803, and came to Sangamon county in 1828, where he spent the remainder of his days. The mother was born in Pike county, Kentucky, January 15, 1813, and also died in Sangamon county. Grandfather Thomas Burns was a native of Alexandria, Virginia, where he was born August 1, 1773. He came to Sangamon county in the early days with his wife, Elizabeth. Grandfather Robert Cass was born in 1768, in Iredell county, North Carolina, and was also one of the early settlers of Sangamon county. His wife, who was Lucy Riley before her marriage, died in Pike county, February 13, 1809. Two children have been born to William B. and Arminda Robinson. John B. was born January 12, 1868, and is now engaged in the lumber business in Decature. He was married to Stella Cowgill, who was born in Macon county. Two children resulted from this union: Helen Alice, born August 14,

1902; and Isabelle, June 3, 1906. The second child of Mr. and Mrs. Robinson is Alice Cary, who was born October 4, 1872. She married Frank Pitner, of Decatur, who departed this life in January, 1902.

Mr. Robinson was a good soldier and as a private citizen he has always attempted to perform his duty not only to the state but to those with whom he has associated. He is now numbered among the elderly residents of the city and is regarded with the honor that is accorded those who by their upright lives have earned the respect of the community. The old soldiers are rapidly passing to their final reward and it is with pleasure that this permanent record is here presented of one who proved himself inded brave and true.

James A. Henson

The world generally accepts a man at the estimate he places on himself, provided it is backed up by plenty of grit and directed by good, strong common sense. Early in life James A. Henson became possessed with a laudable ambition to win for himself an honorable name - an ambition which has carried him through many difficulties that would have appalled a less resolute man, and today he holds a high place in one of the most eminent of the professions, represents in the state senate one of the most intelligent communities in the state and has gained the respect and confidence of a circle which not only includes the county of Macon but many people throughout the state who are acquainted with his abilities and recognize in him a reliable and stanch supporter of any cause that aims to advance the permanent welfare of his fellowmen. Senator Henson has fairly won this enviable position by earnest endeavor, which will always redound to his credit.

A native of Illinois, he was born in Monroe township, Shelby county, on the 25th of April, 1874. His grandparents came from Sweden to America and settled in Virginia, where his father, James Henson, was born and reared. Like many young men of the Atlantic states, he was attracted toward the west and removed to Kentucky, where he met Julia Keen, to whom he was married. Mrs. Henson, who is still living and resides at Decatur with her son, James A., was born in Kentucky. The mother of twelve children, she has always been devoted to the interests of her family and in her declining years receives the many attentions prompted by the tenderest sentiments of love. The father was a farmer and later followed teaming. He lived for a time in Shelby county, Illinois, but finally settled in Decatur, where he died July 22, 1899. He was an honest, hard-working man and during his active career occupied only one public office, that of constable in Shelby county.

From his earliest years James A. Henson was inured to labor and responsibility. He was the youngest member of the family and had limited opportunity for education, his labors being required in the support of a large family, toward which each member was expected to contribute his share. He attended the public schools and had the advantage of one term at Millikin University, working between times at anything he could find to do. As a boy he assisted by selling newspapers on the streets and at the railway depot, and he gathered not a few nickels in shining shoes. He was not ashamed to work at any honorable occupation and the practical training he then received has been one of the greatest forces in his life. As he grew older he worked on the farm, learned the barber's trade and in the brickyard gained a thorough acquaintance with the brick-making trade. While developing the physical he did not lose sight of the mental side of his nature and the law presented allurements which a young man of strong individuality and robust ambition could not resist. He began the study of law, entered the Wesleyan College at Bloomington, Illinois, and was graduated from the law department of that institution with the title of LL. B. in 1906. He was admitted to practice the same year and from the beginning has maintained his office in Decatur, where he had previously built up an enviable reputation and where his life was known by all men. From the start he has been successful at the bar in more than the ordinary degree and although he has been in practice only four years, he is recognized as one of the well established practitioners of Decatur county.

Senator Henson has been connected with public office for a number of years and has acquitted himself in a way that evidently met the approval of his constituents. He was elected supervisor before he was twenty-one years of age and held the office seven years. In 1904 he was chosen as state senator and his record was such that he was reelected to the same office in 1908 with a handsome majority. He has acted as presiding officer pro tern of the senate; chairman of the committee on mines, mining and manufactures; chairman of the visitation committee of penal institutions ; chairman of the committee on mines, mining and labor for the session of 1909 ; member of the judiciary committee ; also other important committees, among them the committee on judicial department and practice.

Few men in public life are more earnest in their efforts to advance reasonable regulations to protect life, health or welfare of the working class than Senator Henson. He introduced the Shotfire bill, pertaining to coal mines, which was passed and is now a law. He introduced the act now in force in Illinois to provide for the health, safety and comfort of employes in factories, mercantile establishments, mills and work shops; also the bill limiting the hours for the employment of women - a vexed question which attracted state-wide discussion for years previous to its final acceptance as an abiding principle in the laws of the state. It may here be explained that a similar act was passed by the state legislature in 1894 but the act was declared unconstitutional by the supreme court of the state. Subsequently the principle was upheld by the courts of Oregon and the case was appealed to the supreme court of the United States where it was held that the state has a right to enact such a law, overriding the supreme court of Illinois upon the decision from the court of final jurisdiction being known. The committee on mines, mining and labor of the Illinois senate reported favorably upon a bill as designated above and both branches of the legislature acting favorably upon the measure, it was duly signed by the governor and became a law. Again the question was carried to the supreme court of Illinois ; the court reversed itself and the bill stands today as one of the most advanced legislative measures of recent years. It is a monument to the men who fought in season and out of season in favor of what they deemed to be a solemn responsibility in behalf of thousands who had no direct voice in making the laws. The work which Senator Henson accomplished in securing the passage of this and other important measures in the legislature has endeared him to workers not only of his native state but of many states where similar legislation is anxiously awaited. While nearly all the leading manufacturers of the state were arrayed against the bill it is confidently believed that the time will come when they will acknowledge the justice of the measure. On the 25th of December, 1895, Senator Henson was united in marriage to Miss Clara May Northland, who was born and reared in Decatur. This union has been blessed by one child, James E. Senator Henson is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America and the Bricklayers' Union. It has been said by profound students that no man has ever yet discovered the extent of his powers. Some of these students go so far as to declare that we have never actually used more than one-tenth of our capabilities. Judging by the work which is being accomplished by many young men of the present time as compared with thousands similarly endowed who preceded them, there appears to be a great deal of truth in the statements. "Every man has in him an undiscovered continent, and happy is he who acts the Columbus to his own soul." This is a beautiful sentiment, and it applies in its true meaning to men like the subject of this memoir who have literally carved their way to recognition, and all the record that is required is a simple recital of their acts. Such men are the backbone of the republic and a complete refutation of the charge that circumstances control the man. To such every laudable avenue is open, every door swings upon its hinges, every worthy ambition bids - "Come, Forward."

Claude Warren Ward

Claude Warren Ward, an enterprising and progressive agriculturist and dairyman of South Wheatland township, cultivates a farm of one hundred and forty-one acres on section 16. His birth occurred in Macon county, Illinois, on the 3d of January, 1881, his parents being John and Martha (Le Master) Ward, who were likewise natives of this state, the former born on the 12th of September, 1842, and the latter on the 6th of February, 1844. John Ward was the sixth in order of birth in a family of eight children, while his wife was the second child born in a family of four. Their marriage was celebrated on the 29th of November, 1866. The father of our subject was a farmer by occupation, and also bought and shipped high grade stock on an extensive scale, dealing principally in Marmaduke roadsters and Poland-China hogs. During the Civil war he fought as a defender of the Union for three years, enlisting in Company E, Forty-first Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and being mustered out at Springfield, Illinois, on the 15th of August, 1865. He participated with his regiment in the famous battles of Vicksburg and Jackson and also took part in numerous other hotly contested engagements. At the battle of Vicksburg he was wounded and carried from the field as dead but revived and was placed in the hospital at Belle Island, where he remained for four months. Upon his recovery he was paroled for thirty days, at the end of which time he rejoined the army and was again wounded in the engagement at Jackson, Mississippi. He was treated on the field for his injuries and remained in the service until the cessation of hostilities between the North and the South. At the time of his demise, which occurred on the 17th of May, 1892, he- was a member of Dunham Post, G. A. R., at Decatur. His political allegiance was given to the republican party and he served as supervisor for several terms, and also acted as township collector and assessor, ever proving a most capable and trustworthy public official. His widow, who still survives, is a devoted and consistent member of the Christian church.

Claude W. Ward, whose name introduces this review, was the sixth in order of birth in a family of eight children, five of whom are yet living. His four sisters are as follows: Rosa, at home; Minnie, a resident of Decatur, who is the wife of Adam Phillips and has four children; Maud, living in South Wheatland township, who is the wife of Leonard Kraft and has one child; and Mattie, who is the wife of Bert Wallace and resides in Decatur.

Claude W. Ward attended the public schools of this state in the acquirement of an education, and after completing his studies, worked on the home farm, assisting his father in its operation until the latter's death. Since that time he has managed the place for his mother, and in connection with the tilling of the soil is also engaged in the dairy business. The farm comprises one hundred and forty-one acres of rich and productive land on section 16, South Wheatland township, and in its cultivation he has met with excellent results, annually gathering bounteous harvests which find a ready sale on the market.

Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr. Ward has supported the men and measures of the republican party, believing that its principles are most conducive to good government. He has resided in Macon county from his birth to the present time and is widely recognized as one of its prosperous and popular young citizens.

William H. Davis

William H. Davis, manager for the Western Union Telegraph Company at Decatur and a man who stands high in the esteem of the people wherever he is known, was born in Union City, Indiana, October 8, 1856, and is the son of Royal H. and Sarah A. (Wilson) Davis, the former a native of Ohio and the latter of Indiana. The father and mother are now living in Union City and have arrived at the ages of seventy-six and seventy-three years respectively. They were married in 1855 and eight children were born to them. The father learned the blacksmith's trade, which he followed until he retired from active labor in i895-

Being the eldest son in a large and growing family, William H. Davis early began to face the world. He received his education in the public schools and at the age of sixteen entered the general office of the Western Union Telegraph Company at Chicago, beginning as messenger boy and applying himself diligently to the study of telegraphy, so that he was soon placed at a key and worked in Chicago about eight years. He was then sent by the company to various points in the United States and after acquiring a thorough knowledge of the vocation to which he has devoted the best energies of his life, in 1887 he was appointed manager for the company at Decatur and has continued in that position ever since, conducting affairs so intelligently that the company's business has very greatly increased and under his supervision is constantly growing.

In 1888 Mr. Davis was united in marriage to Miss Myra R. Smith, a daughter of Abraham and Minerva (Martin) Smith, both natives of Illinois. She was born in 1859 and is the second child in a family of three children. Mr. Davis is socially identified with Macon Lodge, No. 8, A. F. & A. M., and also Celestial Lodge, No. 186, Independent Order of Odd Fellows ; Camp No. 144, Modern Woodmen of America; and Camp No. 26, Court of Honor. His study of political questions has led him to accept the principles of the democratic party as those best adapted for the perpetuity of the republic but in local issues he votes independently. He and his wife are active members of the First Methodist Episcopal church of Decatur and have many friends in the city where they have made their home for so many years, in the course of which they have become closely identified with the religious and social interests of the community. Mr. Davis was fortunate in the selection of a wife who during all their married life has presided over a happy household. He early acquired habits of application and industry that have been to him of inestimable value, and by a life in which he has been guided by worthy ideals he has gained the confidence and respect of the best people in the community.

George W. Reynolds

George W. Reynolds is well known as one of the representative citizens of Whitmore township. He has been prominent in connection with public offices and also as a leading farmer and stock-raiser of the community, devoting his time and energies to the cultivation and improvement of a farm of one hundred and sixty acres. He was born in Piatt county, Illinois, February 22, 1852.

His father, Miner Reynolds, was a native of Pickaway county, Ohio, born in 1 8 10. There he grew to manhood and was married to Miss Susanna Brady, also a native of that county. Following their marriage Mr. Reynolds followed farming in Ohio for a number of years and about 1849 removed westward to Illinois, settling in Piatt county, where he carried on general agricultural pursuits for a number of years. He next became a resident of Whitmore township, Macon county, where he purchased land and developed a farm. Upon this property he reared his family and spent his remaining days, his death occurring in 1876. His wife had passed away a number of years before, when George W. Reynolds was a child. In the family were three sons and six daughters, all of whom reach mature years, while one brother and three sisters are yet living, the brother being James Reynolds, now of Kansas. The sisters are : Mrs. Madden, of Decatur county, Iowa; Martha, the wife of Phil Bowser, of Colorado; and Mrs. Miranda Hester, a widow living in Smith county, Kansas.

George W. Reynolds was reared upon the home farm in Macon county, for he was but a young lad which his parents removed to this part of the state. His early education, acquired in the common schools, was supplemented by a year's study in the State University at Iowa City, Iowa. He devoted four years to herding cattle in the west, particularly in Nebraska, and then returned to his native state. In November, 1880, he was married in Piatt county to Miss Ida M. Shaff, who was born and reared in Ohio, a daughter of Michael Shaff, who removed from the Buckeye state to Illinois.

Following his marriage Mr. Reynolds rented land and engaged in farming for a few years in Piatt county. He also bought and sold land while living there and eventually invested in the one hundred and sixty acres upon which he now resides. This he at once began to farm and his labors are manifest in the excellent improvements upon the place and in the neat and thrifty appearance of the fields. He has erected a good residence, together with substantial barns, corn cribs and buggy sheds, and he has also tiled and fenced the fields. There are fruit and shade trees upon the place of his planting and in fact the excellent appearance of the farm is attributable entirely to his intelligently directed labors. In connection with the tilling of the fields he has raised and fed stock but makes a specialty of raising grain.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Reynolds have been born five sons and four daughters : Cecil D., who aids in carrying on the home farm ; Bert, now of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, where he is employed as an electrician after having previously studied for seven years in the Millikin University, of which he is a graduate; John, a telegraph operator, now at home ; Roy and Carl, who are still under the parental roof; Janetta, the wife of William Campbell, a farmer of Whitmore township; Mabel, Fay and Marie, all at home.

In his political views Mr. Reynolds has been a lifelong republican. He cast his first ballot for president for General U. S. Grant in 1872 and has supported each presidential nominee of the party since that time. Locally, however, he votes an independent ticket, regarding only the capability of a candidate. He was appointed supervisor to fill out an unexpired term and later was elected and reelected until his service as a member of the county board covered six years. He also was elected a member of the town board and served as assessor for one term. On other occasions he has assisted in assessing the township. While a member of the county board he was appointed one of three to investigate the tax index system for keeping the county records and, making favorable report upon this, it was adopted and has proved a great saving of time and expense. He also served on a number of important committees while a county supervisor, acting as a member of the committee in charge of the county farm for about five years. He retired from office in 1910 with a most creditable official record. With little interruption he has been identified with the board of education for many years and the cause of the public schools finds him a stalwart and helpful champion. He has served as a delegate to county and state conventions of his party and also on petit and grand juries. His life has been