Decatur Township (part 33 of 46)

Henry Martin

Many brave men who wore the blue when the Union was in danger are yet with us although nearly half a century has elapsed since the great conflict began which involved four years of terrific contest and a vast sacrifice of human life. Many of these soldiers left the farm like Cincinnatus of old, returning to the plow after peace again spread her wings over the land. Among the number was Henry Martin, who is now living retired in this county and who is numbered among its honored citizens. He was born in Pickaway county, Ohio, in September, 1838, and is a son of William and Comfort (Hopkins) Martin, both of whom were natives of Ohio. The father was born in 1800. He lived for a number of years in Circleville, Ohio, engaging in the commission business, but later moved with his family to Cincinnati and in 1849, came to Illinois, where he dealt in land and grain. He continued in this state until his death in 1879. Mrs. Martin was born in 1803, and was the mother of eight children three of whom are now living: William, Henry, and Mrs. Jane Johns.

The subject of this review was educated in the pay schools of Ohio and came with his parents to this state when he was twelve years of age. Here he grew to manhood and became interested in the management of different farms with which his father was connected. On the 21st of April, 1861, he enlisted in the Eighth Illinois Infantry, and in September of the same year reenlisted in Company I, Seventh Illinois Cavalry, continuing in the field until he was discharged for disability in October, 1862. Returning home, he became restored to health and in September, 1863, rejoined Company I, Seventh Illinois Cavalry, under Colonel William Pitt Kellogg, serving in many important engagements in the south, and he was honorably discharged November 4, 1865. Resuming operations as a farmer, in which he attained a commendable degree of success, he finally took up his residence upon the father's farm in Hickory Point township, where his father had erected a dwelling and outbuildings and where our subject set out trees and hedges. Here he continued until about 1900, since which time he has rented most of the farm and is enjoying a well earned rest.

In February, 1871, Mr. Martin was united in marriage to Miss Caroline Colladay, a daughter of Jacob W. and Julia (Stull) Colladay, both natives of Philadelphia, who came to this state and settled in Macon county. Six children of Mr. and Mrs. Colladay are now living.

Mr. Martin has been a lifelong supporter of the republican party, believing that the party which was mainly instrumental in saving the Union is best adapted to perpetuate the principles upon which the republic is founded. For the past six years he has filled the office of justice of the peace, exercising a rare judgment in his official capacity, which has met the approval of the entire community. Socially he is identified with Decatur Post, No. 141, Grand Army of the Republic. He is enjoying a prosperity which is the result of many years of careful management and which should be the lot of all who practiced self-denial in earlier years, thus accumulating a competence for later life. A public-spirited citizen, Mr. Martin is respected by the people of the entire region where he is known. He is largely a self-made man, and as he can always be depended upon to do exactly as he promises, he justly merits the confidence of all who know him.

Charles Edward Leonard

Charles Edward Leonard, a respected farmer and live-stock raiser of Harristown township, Macon county, was born on a farm near Illiopolis, Illinois, March 1, 1862. He is a son of John and Rhoda (Humphrey) Leonard, the former of whom was born March 9, 1829, in Roanoke county, Virginia and came to Illinois in 1852, settling in Sangamon county. He lived for a time near Mechanicsburg, but acquired near Illiopolis a tract of land which was very wet and, therefore, useless for farming purposes. In order to remove the difficulty he sent to

Piatt county for oxen and plows by means of which he was able to make a ditch and the land became as productive as any in the county. Mr. Leonard was married in his native state before going westward and was accompanied on his journey by his wife and brother Samuel. He became highly successful in his farming operations and was the owner of seven hundred acres of land where he conducted agriculture and live-stock raising upon an extensive scale. Eight children were born to Mr. and Mrs Leonard, seven of whom grew to maturity : Virginia Ann, living in Illiopolis who married Johnson Noel, now deceased, and has six children; Mary Catharine, who married Henry Fait and became the mother of four children, and who also lives in Illiopolis ; John F., a resident of Roodhouse, this state, who married Nancy Thomas and is the father of ten children ; George D. living near Illiopolis, who married Sarah Coleman and is the father of six children; Charles Edward, the subject of this review; Emma Josephine, living in Illiopolis ; and Jessie Lee, living near Illiopolis, who married Claude Fryer and has become the mother of four children. Mr. Leonard the father of the family, was an unholder of the principles of the democratic party but never sought public office. He was a good and upright citizen and a stanch friend of education, donating ground for the district school which is now called the Leonard school. Religiously he accepted the doctrines of the Methodist Episcopal church of which he was an earnest member. He was called from earthly scenes in March, 1910, his faithful wife having departed in February, 1908.

Charles E. Leonard was reared upon the home farm and received his education at the country schoolhouse. After laying aside his books he continued to work upon the farm and later rented land of his father and for eighteen years farmed a portion of the old homestead. In February, 1904, he moved to his present location, on section, 18, Harristown township, where he owns one hundred and sixty acres which he purchased at one hundred and thirty-five dollars an acre. He also owns an interest in one hundred and sixty acres of land near Illiopolis and is recognized as one of the efficient and successful farmers of the township, a man of marked energy and ability who could have succeeded in any thing that would have engaged his attention.

On July 16, 1887, Mr. Leonard was happily married at Springfield, Illinois, to Miss Hannah Collins, who was born in Springfield February 7, 1869. She is a daughter of Michael and Margaret (Desmond) Collins. The father was born in County Cork, Ireland, and the mother at Waterford, Ireland. Both came to America when grown and in New York they were married, locating in Springfield soon afterwards. Mr. Collins was identified for some time with the railroad business but became interested in the dairy business and prospered, acquiring a fine farm of one hundred and sixty acres in Sangamon county. Mrs. Collins was called away March 18, 1901, but her husband is now living with his daughter near Niantic. Eleven children have blessed the household of Mr. and Mrs. Leonard: Charles Edwin, who was born October 11, 1888, and is now assisting in the work of the farm; Margaret Rhoda, born May 1, 1890, a graduate of the high school and also a student for two terms at the State Normal School and two terms at Millikin University, being now a popular teacher in the country schools; Jessie Lee, born November 6, 1892, also a teacher and a graduate of the high school and a student for two terms at Millikin Univer- sity; Herbert, who was born January 29, 1895, and died at the age of two years, nine months and twenty-six days ; Paul, who died at the age of twelve years, in 1909; John Curtis, born June 28, 1899; Erma Josephine, born July 31, 1901 ; Lucille Esther, born March 19, 1903 ; Mary Helen, born March 27, 1905 ; Harold Eugene, born July 22, 1907; and Carl, born October 27, 1909.

Mr. Leonard has been a lifelong democrat and cast his first presidental ballot for Grover Cleveland in 1884. He has not sought political honors, but he has served most acceptably as school director of his district and for five years acted as road commissioner of Sangamon county, during which time he assisted very materially in improving the roads of the county. Socially he is affiliated with the Knights of Pythias, of Illiopolis, having been a charter member of that organization. He is also identified with Niantic Lodge, Woodmen of the World. Mr. Leonard has proved in all the relations of life trustworthy in the highest degree and as a citizen has been patriotic and public-spirited, devoting to the duties of public office the same interest that he bestows upon his private affairs. In his wife he has found a worthy assistant and loving companion whose presence and example have been to her husband and family an unfailing source of comfort and happiness.

Charles Wilson Moffitt

Charles Wilson Moffitt, an enterprising and properous agriculturist of Decatur township, resides on a well improved farm of one hundred and ninety acres on section 16. His birth occurred in Decatur, Macon county, Illinois, on the 9th of June, 1858, his parents being David C. and Eva Catherine (Wilson) Moffitt, who were natives of Brownsville, Pennsylvania, and Circleville, Ohio, respectively. The father was the third in order of birth in a family of five children, while the mother was the second child born in a family of six children. Mr. and Mrs. David C. Moffitt came to Illinois in 1854, first locating in Piatt county, where they remained for two years, on the expiration of which period they took up their permanent abode in Macon county. The father of our subject, who was a brick mason and contractor by trade built the first brick structure ever erected in Decatur. He successfully carried on business for a number of years or until the time of his retirement in 1896. During the Civil war he acted as quartermaster of the supply station at Decatur. His political allegiance was given to the democracy and his fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, honored him by election to positions of public trust and responsibility. He acted as city alderman for three terms and for one term acceptably served as mayor of Decatur. Fraternally he was identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He passed away on the 1st of March, 1898, his death being occasioned by heart failure. His widow still survives and makes her home with her son. She also has four daughters, the record of whom is as follows: Ida, who was born April 26, 1854, gave her hand in marriage to Henry May, of Decatur, and passed away in 1878. Her only child, a son, died in Oklahoma in December, 1893. Carrie E., whose natal day was July 8, 1856, wedded Andrew

Dempsey, of Decatur, by whom she has three children. Annie, who was born March 6, i860, is the wife of John I. Hanks, of Harristown, Illinois, and has one daughter. The other sister of our subject died in infancy.

In his youthful years Charles W. Moffitt attended the public schools of Decatur and after completing his education learned the brick mason's trade under the direction of his father, working in partnership with him until the latter's retirement. He continued in business alone until 1905 and then took up his abode on his present farm of one hundred and ninety acres in Decatur township, which he had purchased in association with his father in the spring of 1894. During the past five years he has devoted his attention to the pursuits of general fanning and stock-raising, making a specialty of Poland China hogs, South Down sheep and shorthorn and Jersey cattle. He has won a gratifying measure of success in the conduct of his agricultural interests and is widely recognized as a substantial and representative citizen of the community.

On the 20th of November, 1894, Mr. Moffitt was united in marriage to Miss Grace Towle. Her parents were Frank P. and Florence (Sprague) Towle, natives of Virginia. They came to Illinois in pioneer times and located in Macon county. Mrs. Moffitt has one brother, Ralph Towle, who belongs to the United States army and lives at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.

Mr. Moffitt is a republican in politics and is now capably serving as one of the highway commissioners of Decatur township. His fraternal relations are with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and the Fraternal Order of Eagles at Decatur. His wife is a faithful member of the Methodist church and he likewise attends its services. They are well and favorably known throughout the county in which they have spent their entire lives and the hospitality of the best homes is cordially extended to them.

William Henry Mathias

The man who starts on his business career with nothing to depend upon but a good constitution and his own native courage and ability is almost invariably the one who wins. He develops his inherent powers and without any effort on his part is justly respected by his neighbors and acquaintances. It is evident that William H. Mathias, of South Macon township, belongs to this class of men. He has worked his way from the foot of the financial ladder to a position of independence. It was a long, hard climb, but he had the grit and perseverance and when these elements are associated with patience and good management the end is assured.

Mathias is a native of Illinois, born in Moultrie county, August 30, 1857. He is a son of Jacob and Nancy (Evans) Mathias, who came from Ohio to this state in early days and settled in Moultrie county. At the age of seventeen the son was left to care for himself, the father having been called away and the mother, yielding to her sorrow, departed this life six days later. It was, indeed, a severe blow for a boy just approaching manhood, but the world with all its attractions lay before him and he bravely undertook the responsibility of forging his way through the difficulties with which he was surrounded. He began by working as a farm hand, continuing until he arrived at the age of twenty-eight years, when he was married and began fanning on his own account. Aften fifteen years of close application and good management he bought the farm on which he now lives in 1900 and has since engaged in general farming and stock-raising with a success which is well deserved, as he has brought to his work an energy and ability meriting generous returns. His farm of one hundred and twenty-three acres is one of the neatest and best appointed places in his part of the county, and he has reason to be proud of the reputation he has attained in the neighborhood as an up-to-date farmer and public-spirited citizen.

In 1885 Mr. Mathias was united in marriage to Miss Delilah Cotner, a daughter of Judd and Jane (Adam) Cotner. She is the eldest child of a family of seven children. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Mathias has been blessed by the arrival of four children : Elmer, born in 1886, who married Miss Essie Manly, of Macon county, and is living in this county; Thomas, born in February, 1889, living at home; Clyde, born in July, 1896; and William, born in July, 1901.

Politically Mr. Mathias is a sound democrat and is a strong believer in the ability of the democratic party to conduct the ship of state through any breakers that may appear. Although his attention is largely given to his own affairs, his ear is always open to any call appealing to his patriotism or his sympathies and no man is more willing to assist the beginner in life's battle than the subject of this review, who himself knows the obstacles that lie in the way.

Samuel Troutman

For almost a half century Samuel Troutman was a resident of Macon county and practically all of his life was spent in carrying on agricultural pursuits, so that his labors in this direction contributed much to the substantial development and improvement of the section in which he so long made his home. He was born on the 1st of March, 1843, in Fulton county, about twenty miles from Logansport, Indiana, a son of Peter and Mary (Bruce) Troutman.

The schools of the Hoosier state afforded Samuel Troutman his educational privileges and by improving these he qualified for the duties of life. He remained in his native county until nineteen years of age, when, his patriotic spirit aroused at the outbreak of the Civil war, he offered his services to the government, becoming a member of Company B, Sixteenth Illinois Volunteer Infantry. While at the front he made a most creditable military record, discharged his duties in most loyal manner. When hostilities had ceased he joined his parents in Decatur, to which city they had in the meantime removed. He remained under the parental roof for a short time but on the 10th of January, 1867, established a home of his own by his marriage to Miss Elizabeth F. Bear, of Decatur.

Mr. And Mrs. Samuel Troutmax

Following their marriage the young couple took up their abode upon a farm near Bearsdale, Macon county, Mr. Troutman having purchased a tract of one hundred and sixty acres. For forty-five years he was actively engaged in the further development and improvement of that place and his labors brought to him a most gratifying annual return. He lived to witness many changes in this section of the county as the old fashioned farm utensils were replaced by the more modern machinery and the work of progress and improvement was carried on in other lines, and Mr. Troutman was quick to adopt any new method or idea that tended to better farm work and also add to the material advancement of the community. After spending forty-five years on the farm, he bought grain at Bearsdale for sixteen years. He then traded for a nice home in Decatur, at No. 906 West Macon street, and there took up his abode to spend his remaining days in honorable retirement. He, however, retained possession of his farm property, from which he derived a good annual income.

Qualified to wear the Grand Army button, Mr. Troutman never ceased to feel a deep interest in his army comrades and was a valued member of Dunham Post, No. 141, at Decatur. He was a republican in his political views, while his religious faith was indicated by his membership in the First Methodist Episcopal church and his life was ever guided by its principles. He passed away June 17, 1910, after reaching the sixty-seventh milestone on life's journey, leaving to his family not only the substantial rewards of his labor and keen sagacity but also the priceless heritage of an example that is indeed worthy of emulation. He is survived by his widow, one son and one daughter. The son, Frank S. Troutman, is married and has one daughter and two sons. He resides on the old home farm in Macon county. The daughter, Mary Etta, is the wife of A. J. Conover, who is a farmer of this county.

William H. Kile

The enterprising town of Argenta finds a worthy representative of its business interests in William H. Kile, who for the past five years has been proprietor of a general mercantile store, in which he carries a large and well selected line of goods that finds favor with the public as shown in the liberal patronage which is accorded him. What he undertakes he carries forward to successful completion and his business plans are well formulated and promptly executed.

He was born in Macon county, January 22, 1869, and is a son of Isaac W. Kile, whose birth occurred in this state in 1840. The grandfather, Josiah Kile, was a native of Ohio and became one of the pioneer residents of Macon county, settling here when central Illinois was largely an undeveloped and unimproved region. There were great stretches of land that were still unclaimed and uncultivated, while the timber was uncut and the streams unbridged. Josiah Kile purchased one hundred and sixty acres upon which not a furrow had been turned or an improvement made, but with characteristic energy he began its

Isaac W. Kile was reared upon the old homestead in this county amid the scenes and environments of pioneer life and after attaining his majority he married Miss Emma Thomas, who was born in Ohio but was brought to Illinois when a maiden of ten summers. He purchased the interest of the other heirs in the old homestead property and thus succeeded to the ownership of the farm. However, as his financial resources increased he added to his property until his holdings embraced three hundred and forty-five acres. The work of improvement was carried steadily forward, as seen in well tilled fields, good fences and substantial buildings. Upon the farm he reared his family and made his home for many years but later removed to Argenta, where he filled the position of postmaster for a few years. No public trust reposed in him was ever betrayed in the slightest degree and he proved most capable in office. His death occurred in October, 1907, and he is still survived by his wife, who yet resides in Argenta. Their family numbered two sons, the younger being C. O. Kile, who is engaged in the lumber business in Ivesdale, Illinois.

Wiliam H. Kile, whose name introduces this record, spent his youthful days upon the farm and his early education was acquired in the home school. Later he attended the State Normal for two terms and also pursued a course in Brown's Business College, his thorough mental discipline well qualifying him for the responsibilities that came to him when his school life was over. He completed arrangements for having a home of his own by his marriage in Bloomington, Indiana, on the 22d of February, 1892, to Miss Rose M. Miller, who was. born in Friends Creek township, Macon county, a daughter of Mrs. C. E. Miller. They took up their abode on the farm and he continued its cultivation for twelve years, at the same time successfully raising, feeding and fattening stock. While he raised some cattle, he made a specialty of Poland China hogs and shipped a carload or two of fat hogs each year. He likewise bred Poland Chinas and Hereford cattle and he held several public sales which brought him substantial returns for his stock. He became well known both as a breeder and dealer and won recognition as one of the leading stockmen of the community. In 1905 he removed to Argenta and purchased an interest in the general store of Kunz & Reidich. The firm is now Kunz & Kile and they carry an extensive stock of general merchandise, having a large double store. Here they have built up an extensive business, their sales amounting to about fifty thousand dollars per annum. They demand courteous treatment of their patrons on the part of all employes and thorough reliability is one of the potent features in their success.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Kile have been born six children : Sybil, Gladys, Wilma, Maxine and Ira W., all of whom are. at home; and a daughter, Leah, who died when about seven months old. The parents are consistent and faithful members of the Cumberland Presbyterian church of Argenta and Mr. Kile belongs to the Masonic lodge and chapter at Monticello, to the Knights Templar commandery at Decatur and to Peoria Temple of the Mystic Shrine. He is a past master of the blue lodge and in his life exemplifies the beneficent spirit of the craft. While he usually votes the democratic ticket, he is largely independent in politics and never allows partisan prejudice to affect him at local elections where no issue is involved. He has served as a member of the town board and also as a member of the school board of Argenta and is classed with the active and progressive citizens here. His cooperation is a tangible factor in any movement for the public good, his business integrity is unassailable and his enterprising spirit is manifest not only in commercial and business affairs but also in the relations of social life.

Henry I. Parish

Among the prominent farmers and live-stock raisers of Harristown township, Macon county, is Henry I. Parish, the owner of a beautiful farm which has been developed largely through his own industry and good management and is one of the most productive farms in the region. He is a native son of Illinois and was born in Mount Auburn, Christian county, October 20, i860, a son of George A. and Narcissa (Stockton) Parish. The father of our subject, who is now seventy-three years of age, was born in Bloomington, Indiana, and moved with his parents to Springfield where the head of the family worked at the brick mason's trade, later going to Mount Auburn, where George A. Parish began his active career as a blacksmith and has lived in the same place ever since and gained an honorable name in the community. After working for a few years at his trade he purchased a farm of one hundred and sixty acres adjoining Mount Auburn, which he has since conducted. He is affiliated with the democratic party and has acceptably discharged the duties of several minor public offices. He is also an esteemed member of the Masonic fraternity and a citizen who has always had the best interests of the community at heart. The mother was a native of Mechanicsburg, Sangamon county, this state, a daughter of Ira and Ruth Stockton. Her father was a native of Kentucky and came to Sangamon county before the Civil war, removing, however, to Macon county, where he settled in Decatur township. Two of his maternal uncles, Edward, now deceased, and Richard, served with great credit in the Union army until the close of war.

Henry I. Parish grew up under the parental roof and was educated in the public schools. He served under his father until he reached manhood's estate and then began as a farmer on his own account. He rented land for four years in Christian county, at the end of which time he purchased eighty acres where he now lives, paying fifty-three dollars an acre. The land had been very slightly improved and after he had acquired full possession he erected a commodious barn and a handsome residence and in 1900 purchased an additional eighty acres, for which he paid eighty-five or eighty-six dollars an acre. This land is now worth two hundred dollars an acre and with a comfortable residence, large barn, good fences and an abundance of shade and ornamental trees and other improvements the farm is easily one of the most attractive properties in the township.

On March 13, 1883, in Hickory Point township, Mr. Parish was united in marriage to Miss Fannie Lewis, who was born in Coventry, Warwickshire, England, a daughter of Charles and Emma (Betts) Lewis. She came with her parents to America when she was two years of age and the family located in

Macon county. Here she received a fair common school education and since her marriage has been an unfailing assistant to her husband. Her father is still a resident of Hickory Point township. Two children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Parish: Forny Oliver, born February 21, 1884, and educated for two years at Eureka College, now living at home; and Lewis Russell, born June 26, 1888, a student for one year at Millikin University and for one year at Eureka College, also at home.

Mr. Parish was for many years an ardent believer in the principles of the democratic party but is now independent in his political views and votes according to the conditions and necessities of the times. He served most acceptably as road commissioner for eight years, during which time he was instrumental in graveling the roads in the township. He is a member of the Christian church, as are also both of his sons, and has for many years occupied the office of deacon in the church, the elder son being now assistant superintendent of the Sunday school. By a life of industry, sobriety and rightly directed effort, Mr. Parish has attained deserved success in his chosen vocation, in addition to which he has gained the enduring gratitude of many persons, old and young, by his kind acts and well timed advice. He is recognized as a representative of the best type of American citizenship - a type which is the foundation and unfailing support of the republic.

Charles M. Durning

The soil of Illinois is naturally fertile and productive, and among those who are fortunate in possessing farms located in this rich district is numbered Charles M. Durning, one of Macon county's substantial and successful agriculturists. He is a native of the Prairie state, his birth occurring on the 15th of February, i860, the only son of James and Mary (Nicholson) Durning. The family is of German lineage, although representatives of the name have resided in this country for many years. The grandfather of our subject, John Durning, was born in Venango county, Pennsylvania, and when a lad of fourteen years left home because of unharmonious relations with his stepmother, his whereabouts remaining unknown to the family until about thirty-five years ago. He first made his way to Kentucky, where later he married Jane Maxwell, and was engaged in steamboating on the Mississippi river for a number of years, and later carried on farming for some time. Subsequently he took up his abode near Decatur. Of their family but two sons survive : Edward of Decatur, and D. P., of Chanute, Kansas, the former having reached his seventy-eighth year.

James Durning, the father of our subject, was born in Caldwell county, Kentucky, June 20, 1828, and the year 1852 witnessed his arrival in Macon county, Illinois, where he took up twenty acres of land in Wheatland township. Here he erected a little two-room log cabin, in which all except two of his children were born. Subsequently he sold that property and invested in forty acres, which was also disposed of later, after which, in 1866, he purchased a fine farm of one hundred acres. By nature extremely kindhearted, like others who are charitably inclined he often suffered financial loss in his efforts to be of assistance to some fellow-man in need. He was a faithful member of the Presbyterian church and on the last day of his life, June 12, 1910, was present at services. The occasion was Children's Day, and it was his desire to be present and see his grandchildren attend. With the falling of the evening shadows he passed away, and at his demise the community lost one of its m6st valued and honored citizens. Death came to him while yet in the enjoyment of good health. His wife, who in her maidenhood was Mary Nicholson, was born in Garrard county, Kentucky on the 28th of August, 1830, a daughter of John and Elizabeth Henry Nicholson. The father, also a native of Kentucky, came to Mason county in 1851, locating in Long Creek township, and the following year witnessed the arrival of the mother in company with her parents. They were here united in marriage in 1855, and unto this union were born eight children, of whom six passed away in infancy and early childhood. At the time of their arrival Macon county was but sparsely settled and Decatur, the flourishing business center of the present time, was but a city in embryo, giving little indication at that early day of the industrial and commercial activities which were to mark its later development.

It was amid such scenes and environment that Charles M. Durning, whose name introduces this review, was reared, no event of special importance coming to vary the routine of life for him during the period of his boyhood and youth. The district schools near his home afforded him his educational privileges, and during the periods of vacation he assisted his father in the work of the farm. When seventeen years of age, however, he put aside his text-books to give his entire attention to agricultural pursuits, and he continued to give his father the benefit of his assistance until 1884, when he was married and took up business on his own acount. He managed his father's farm until 1900 and then purchased his present property, consisting of one hundred and forty-three acres located on section 3, Mount Zion township. At that time but one hundred acres were cleared but he at once applied himself to the further development of the place, clearing the remainder of the land, bringing the fields under cultivation and erecting a comfortable house and substantial barns and outbuildings. As the years passed he made other improvements, introducing all of the modern accessories for facilitating farm labor, and the place today is one of the valuable and desirable properties of the township, standing as a monument to his life of industry, perseverance and thrift. He engages in general farming and stockraising, making a specialty of buying and fattening hogs and cattle for the market, and the substantial success which has crowned his efforts is but an indication of keen business sagacity, close application and wise management.

It was on the 22d of October, 1884, that Mr. Durning was united in marriage to Miss Lutitia Muir, a native of Lewis county, Missouri, and a daughter of George G. and Mary (Daugherty) Muir. The father, who was born in Kentucky, October 11, 1837, was a railroad conductor by occupation and was also a soldier in the Civil war, seeing active service in Missouri as a soldier of the Confederate army. He died September 4, 1864. His wife, whom he married on the 2d of February, i860, in Missouri, was born in Grant county, Wisconsin, January 21, 1840, and after his death was again married, in 1867, to Thomas Price, a resident of Illinois, whose birth, however, occurred in Ohio. She departed this life on the 8th of January, 1904, and Mr. Price died October 22, the same year. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Durning has been blessed with five children, as follows : Arthur C, who was born July 19, 1885, and is engaged in railroad construction; Orville R., born July 7, 1887, who is a trusted employe of the National Bank of Decatur; Nina May, who was born February 12, 1892, and was a graduate in the academy class of the Millikin University in 1910; Helen, born January 3, 1896; and Juanita, born on the 5th of August, 1900.

Mr. Durning's religious faith is that of the Presbyterian church, and fraternally he is identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and with the Modern Woodmen of America. A republican in politics, he has been called to public office by his fellow citizens, having filled the office of township collector for two terms, township assessor for a similar term and at the present time serving as school director. Competent and faithful in public office, he has ever been actuated in all that he did by a spirit of loyalty and public-spirited devotion to the general cause, and in private life he is influenced by manly principles and honorable purpose. He is a successful man, and yet his success cannot be measured in terms of material gain alone, for his sterling characteristics have won for him the confidence, regard and good will of his fellowmen - a possession more to be desired than material wealth.

Frederick A. Groninger

Among those citizens of Macon county who had their birth across the waters but who in the new world have found and improved the opportunities for business advancement which led them to seek their fortunes in this county, is numbered Frederick A. Groninger. He was born in Oldenberg, Germany, on the 1st of December, 1830, and is therefore in the eightieth year of his life. His parents, Frederick and Helen Groninger, were also natives of the fatherland, where their entire lives were spent, the father there devoting his life to the ministry. Their family consisted of three sons, but the brothers of our subject are now deceased.

To the public schools of his native land Frederick A. Groninger is indebted for the educational advantages which he enjoyed during his boyhood and youth. After laying aside his text-books he was employed for some time as a farm hand, and was thus engaged until 1859, when he determined to seek the advantages which awaited the ambitious and industrious in the land of opportunity across the waters. Coming to America he made his way to Nebraska where he purchased land and for about ten years engaged in farming. The year 1871 witnessed his arrival in Macon county, Illinois, locating in Pleasant View township, where he purchased eighty acres of land. This formed the nucleus of his present excellent farm, -for as the years passed and he prospered in his undertaking he was able to add to his original purchase until he now owns two hundred and eighty acres of rich and valuable land on sections 8 and 9. His efforts have since been directed to its further cultivation and development and he has brought the place under a high state of improvement. About twenty-five years ago he erected the attractive modern residence which is now his home, and has equipped the farm with all the accessories and conveniences that go to make up a model farm. He has engaged in general farming, and his well directed efforts, his close application and his practical methods have been resultant factors in the acquirement of a sucecss which is at once substantial and gratifying. He still gives personal supervision to his business interests, although the actual work of the farm is left to others, and now, in the evening of life, is enjoying those comforts which come as a reward for long years of active labor and earnest endeavor.

Mr. Groninger was united in marriage, June 2, 1880, to Miss Mary Elizabeth Edwards, who was born in Athensville, Green county, Illinois, on the 17th of December, 1858, a daughter of Nathaniel and Louisa (Fergusson) Edwards. The father, who was born in Kentucky on the 20th of November, 1830, passed away in Shelbyville, Illinois, April 2, 1903, but the mother, whose birth occurred in Green county, Illinois, is still living and makes her home in Blue Mound at the age of seventy-six years. In their family were seven children, as follows: Mary E., who became the wife of Mr. Groninger, of this review; Lucinda, who married Nicholas Depue, of Grand Island, Nebraska; Matilda, the widow of John Crawford, who makes her home in Mount Park, Oklahoma; Annis, wife of John Hull, also residing in Oklahoma; Nancy, who .married Pink Huston and lives in Missouri; Nona, the wife of Harris Revis, of Blue Mound, and Birton E., at Blue Mound. Mr. and Mrs. Groninger became the parents of seven children, all of whom were born in Pleasant View township. The first child passed away in infancy. Helena, the second in order of birth, was born in 1882 and passed away December 31, 1907, her remains being interred in Hall cemetery. She had become the wife of Charles Powers, and at her death left five sons, Michael, Frederick, Willard, Raymond and Charles Teddy. Anna, the next child, was born in 1884 and became the wife of Anderson Austin. They have two children, Mary Ellen Pearl and Edwin, and the family reside in Pleasant View township. Frederick William, born June 22, 1889, is a graduate of the township schools and is now at home, assisting his father in the conduct of the homestead. Alvena Wilhelmina Caroline, born April 23, 1893, is yet at home and keeps house for her father. Edward Adolph was born in February, 1895, and passed away at the age of one year and one month, and the youngest of the family also passed away in infancy.

On the 5th of April, 1909, Mr. Groninger was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife, whose remains were laid to rest in Hall cemetery. She was a lady of most excellent characteristics, a lover of good literature, progressive in her ideas, refined in manner and kindly and generous in spirit. Her loss was keenly felt not only in the family, where she had ever been a most loving wife and devoted and indulgent mother, but also in the community where she had long been honored and loved by her friends and neighbors as an excellent example of true and noble womanhood. She passed away in the belief of the Christian church, whose teachings had ever been exemplified in her daily life. Mr. Groninger holds membership in the German Lutheran church, while he gives stanch support to the principles of the democratic party. For a number of years he held the position of road boss, and has ever been deeply and helpfully interested in all matters that pertain to the public life of the community, casting his influence in behalf of those projects which have for their object its permanent upbuilding and development. Although he has long since passed the Psalmist's allotted span of three score years and ten, his memory remains remarkably clear and goes back through long years of active connection with the agricultural interests of his adopted country to his early life in his native land. He has never had occasion to regret his determination to seek his fortune in the new world, however, for here he found the opportunities which he sought for advancement in business lines, and has won most substantial prosperity. The full measure of his success, however, cannot be taken in terms of material success alone, for he has acquired an enviable place in the opinion of his fellow citizens, among whom he has even been an especial favorite.

John Washburn

All Decatur knows and respects John Washburn, who since 1855 has been identified with mercantile interests in this city. He came here when Decatur was a village and with its upbuilding and improvement has been closely associated, contributing at all times to its progress and advancement. His life has indeed been honorable and worthy of emulation, and although he is now eighty-one years of age he still remains a factor in the world's work, being proprietor of one of the oldest established mercantile enterprises of the city.

His birth occurred in Lyme, Grafton county, New Hampshire, June 1, 1829, his parents being John and Sarah (Tucker) Washburn, the latter a granddaughter of one of the soldiers who' fought under the immediate command of General George Washington from the beginning until the close of the Revolutionary war. He was a member of a Massachusetts regiment and participated in the battle of Bunker Hill. He was also one of the famous Boston tea party and aided in throwing the tea overboard into the sea, thus showing open resistance to the tea tax. John Washburn remembers the stories which his grandfather told concerning the Revolutionary war and of hearing him sing the old song of the British soldiers, the tenor of which was :

Three brothers named Washburn were founders of the family in the new world. They left England on one of the old time sailing vessels and settled at Bridgeport, Massachusetts, near Boston, arriving soon after the landing of the Pilgrim Fathers. For generations representatives of the name lived and died there. The old home place was in possession of the famliy for one hundred and forty years but changed ownership about a year ago.

John Washburn, the father of him whose name introduces this review, was born June 29, 1795, and died January 6, 1872. He was a New Hampshire farmer, devoting his entire life to general agricultural pursuits. His wife, who was born September 13, 1794, died January 9, 1874. The family is noted for longevity. A sister of Mr. Washburn, Mrs. Mary E. Richardson, is living in Westfield, Massachusetts, at the age of eighty-three years, and a cousin and other relatives of the family remain residents of the eastern states. A brother, Benjamin T. Washburn, was born July 6, 1832, and died June n, 1908. John Sloan, a great-uncle of Mr. Washburn, on the paternal side, died in June, 1824, at the remarkable old age of ninety-six years, while his wife, Esther, passed away in December, 1828, also ninety-six years of age. These were the first white settlers of Lyme, New Hampshire.

John Washburn pursued his education in the district schools of his native city until twenty years of age and during that period also assisted his father in the operation of the home farm. Later he removed to Newark, Ohio, where he engaged in teaching school for three terms and also spent one term as a teacher near Oberlin, Ohio, but thinking to find commercial pursuits more congenial and profitable, he became connected with mercantile interests at Newark, where he remained until 1855, when he came to Decatur, Illinois, which at that time was little more than a cross-roads village. There were no paved streets, only a few dwellings and a very limited number of business houses. Mr. Washburn secured a stock of merchandise, opened a store and has since been connected with the city. He has occupied the same store room for forty years and this is one of the oldest established mercantile enterprises of Decatur. The store is located at No. 219 South Park street and he resides at No. 249 West William street.

In Decatur, in 1867, Mr. Washburn was united in marriage to Miss Zarilda A. Emmons, who died in 1879. In politics he is independent, voting rather for men and measures than for party. He is an enthusiastic and zealous member of the Decatur Retail Grocers Association and also has the welfare and progress of the city at heart. He has been a successful merchant but is entirely free from ostentation and display. He is remarkably well preserved for one of his years and has but recently returned from a trip to the east, visiting Ohio and his old home in New Hampshire, where his ancestors were among the makers of history, leaving their impress for good upon the development and progress of that section of the country. Decatur citizens, having long known Mr. Washburn, would regard no work of this character complete without mention of his life, and he has indeed been a most prominent factor in the commercial circles of the city.

William Crosson

From the ranks of the employed, working by the month as a farm hand, to the ownership of an excellent farm of one hundred and sixty-one acres, is the record of William Crosson, who is now numbered among the representative and progressive agriculturists of South Macon township. He is one of Ireland's contribution to the citizenship of Illinois, his birth occurring in the north of Ireland on the 1st of January, 1844. His parents, William and Mary (McGarvey) Crosson, were also natives of the Emerald isle, where the mother passed away when her son William was but nine years of age. His father, who yet makes his home in Ireland, has reached the venerable age of ninety years.

William Crosson, who was the eldest in a family of six children, was reared in the country of his nativity and in the common schools received a good education. He remained with his father until after attaining his majority, and then, aroused by the reports concerning the advantages to be found in the new world, he left Londonderry, September 7, 1867, with America - the land of opportunity - as his destination. Arriving at New York, he made his way to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he spent the following winter, and in May, 1868, came to Illinois, locating in Bureau county. There he obtained employment as a farm hand, working by the month, and in that capacity he labored for ten years, or until, desiring that his efforts should more directly benefit himself, he removed to Shelby county and there rented a farm of fifty acres, engaging in agriculture on his own account. That farm remained his home for two years after which, feeling that the money which he had been able to accumulate through careful saving and wise expenditure would permit such a step, he purchased eighty acres of land in Macon county, which tract formed the nucleus of his present excellent farm. He at once began the further development and improvement of that tract, and with the passing of the years, as he prospered, he was able to add to his original purchase until he is now the owner of one hundred and sixty-one acres located in section 12, South Macon township, which is now one of the good farming properties of the locality. About twenty years ago he erected what is now the main part of his home, and has since added to it until now he has a fine modern residence. He has introduced many improvements upon the place, and here engages in general farming and also gives much attention to stock-raising, both branches of his business proving most successful.

The home life of Mr. Crosson had its foundation in his marriage, in September, 1876, to Miss Martha Watts, a daughter of Mt. Zion and Mary (Turner) Watts, natives of Ohio and Virginia respectively. Mrs. Crosson was one of a family of thirteen children, her birth occurring on the 7th of September, 1846. By her marriage to Mr. Crosson she became the mother of seven children, of whom the eldest, James M., was born April 29, 1877, and now makes his home in Macon county. He married Miss Minnie Lindermood, and they have one child. William J., the second in order of birth, was born on the 7th of December, 1878, and is employed as railroad telegraph operator. Edward B. passed away in infancy. Mary E., who was born February 7, 1882, is a stenographer of Decatur, and Margaret C, who was born January 5, 1884, is a milliner of that city. Martha G., whose birth occurred in August, 1886, is attending business college in Decatur, and Annie A., born April 11, 1889, is yet at home.

Mr. Crosson and his family are members of the Roman Catholic church of Macon, while the former gives his support to the democratic party when national issues are involved. In local politics, however, he is independent, reserving the right to cast his influence in behalf of those men and measures which in his opinion are best adapted to conserve the general good. He is a firm believer in the policy of the best good to the greatest number, and his genuine worth and public-spirited citizenship have been recognized by his fellowmen, who elected him to the position of road commissioner, in which he served for one term. For twelve years he has been a school director, and the cause of education has ever found in him a stanch champion. All matters relating to the material, intellectual and moral welfare of the community receive his hearty cooperation, and he has ever done all in his power to promote the welfare of his adopted country. He has never regretted his determination to come to America, for here, where opportunity is open to all young men possessed of energy, ambition and determination, he has met success, prosperity having come to him as the legitimate result of well directed effort and intelligently applied labor.

Frederick E. Wilson

Frederick E. Wilson, a well known and respected resident of Macon, has been successfully engaged in the buying and selling of live stock throughout his entire business career and during the past seven years has also devoted considerable attention to auctioneering. His birth occurred in Macon, Illinois, on the 22d of February, 1859, his parents being William and Amelia (Delbridge) Wilson, natives of Germany. The father passed away in 1862, when forty-six years of age, and the mother afterward wedded Henry Harbor, of St. Clair county, Illinois, by whom she had three children. She was called to her final rest in April, 1892.

Frederick E. Wilson, the elder of two children born unto his parents, attended the public schools for a brief period but his opportunities in this direction were limited and his education has been largely self-acquired. When still but a boy he manifested an inclination to deal in and handle live stock and this branch of activity has claimed his time and energies throughout his entire business career, his attention being principally given to the buying and selling of horses and mules. During the past seven years he has likewise been engaged in auctioneering and farming in partnership with his son, Emanuel C, and in his various undertakings has won a gratifying measure of prosperity. He owns an attractive and substantial home in the town of Macon and is an enterprising and representative resident of the community.

In 1881 Mr. Wilson was united in marriage to Miss Elva McDaniel, who was born on the 2d of January, 1862, her parents being Manuel and Rachel C. ( Hill) McDaniel, natives of Macon county. Illinois. Mrs. Wilson was the eighth in order of birth in a family of nine children and by her marriage has become the mother of three sons. Emanuel C, whose natal day was June 27, 1883, was married on the 6th of January, 1908, to Miss Rose Cutter, who passed away on the 28th of December following. He now resides in Macon with his parents. Arthur E., who was born on the nth of December, 1885, is a member of the New York Club of the National League. Ernest E., whose birth occurred September 17, 1887, died on the 27th of January, 1889.

When national questions and issues are involved Mr. Wilson supports the republican party but at local elections casts an independent ballot, voting for the candidate whom he believes best qualified. His fraternal relations are with

South Macon Lodge, No. 467, A. F. & A. M., and Beacon Lodge, No. 434, K. P., and his wife belongs to the ladies' auxiliary of the latter order. Both are devoted and consistent members of the Methodist church at Macon. They have spent their entire lives in this county and are well known and highly esteemed within its borders.

John Newsham

John Newsham, owner of a beautiful farm of one hundred and sixty acres on section 34, South Macon township, and known as one of the enterprising citizens of the township, was born in St. Clair county, Illinois, October 9, 1856. He is a son of John and Catherine (Cottom) Newsham. The father was born in England and came with his parents to America in his boyhood, settling in Illinois. Here he was married in 1852, his wife being a native of Cincinnati, Ohio, where she was born September 20, 1830. Mr. Newsham engaged in farming and was an industrious and capable man, who gained the respect of his neighbors and of all with whom he came in contact. He departed this life May 24, 1876. Mrs. Newsham survived her husband twenty-five years and was called away September 15, 1901. She was a woman of many excellent qualities and one who left the world better for having lived in it. Ten children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Newsham, the subject of this review being the third in order of birth.

Educated in the public schools, John Newsham continued upon the farm until he arrived at the estate of manhood. After taking unto himself a life partner he began farming on his own account and in 1893 purchased the farm on which he has since lived, devoting his attention to general farming and the rearing of live stock for the market. Since gaining possession of the farm Mr. Newsham has made many improvements, modernizing the residence, erecting new outbuildings and fences, setting out shade and ornamental trees and purchasing up-to-date appliances, so that at the present time his farm is one of the most desirable properties in the township. In the meantime the owner has prospered financially through good management and well applied industry.

On July 3, 1879, Mr. Newsham was united in marriage to Miss Josephine Cook, a daughter of Henry and Catherine (Monsell) Cook, natives of Pennsylvania, who came to Illinois about 1857 and settled in Macon county. Two children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Cook, Mrs. Newsham being the eldest. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Newsham has been brightened by the arrival of four children. Viola A., who was born April 5, 1880, is now living in Decatur. William W., born August 18, 1881, married Miss Nona March, of Macon county, and is now living in this county and has one child. Eleonora W., born December 11, 1883, is the wife of George Mills, of Keyesport, Clinton county, Illinois. Frank born September 3, 1899, is still at home.

Mr. Newsham is socially identified with South Macon Lodge, No. 467, A. F. & A. M., and he and his wife are members of the Order of the Eastern Star. Politically he is a republican, but he is a strong advocate of prohibition and usually votes independently in local affairs. He and his family are worthy members of the Methodist Episcopal church of Macon and for some years he has acted as steward of the church, his wife being a member of the Ladies' Aid Society and the Home and Foreign Missionary Societies. Mr. and Mrs. Newsham have many friends in this community and are interested in all worthy movements that aim to advance the permanent welfare of the region.

Charles H. Finson

Charles H. Finson, who was a soldier of the Civil war and is today a responsible farmer and stock-raiser of Macon county, was born on a farm near Bethel, now Chapin, in Morgan county, Illinois, February n, 1847, a son of John D. and Narcissa (True) Finson. The father and mother were both natives of Maine and there they grew to maturity. Mr. Finson, desirous of taking advantage of the excellent opportunities offered in the agricultural regions of the west, came to Morgan county, this state, where he located upon a farm and soon demonstrated that he had made no mistake in selecting Illinois as his adopted state. After becoming established in his new home he communicated with the lady of his choice in the Pine Tree state and upon his solicitation she came west and they were married in Morgan county. He became the owner of two hundred and eighty acres of land in Morgan and Scott counties and was an industrious and enterprising citizen, greatly esteemed by his neighbors and loved by his family.

Charles H. Finson was reared upon the farm and received his education in the public schools. In April, 1864, at the age of seventeen years, he offered his services in support of the government and was accepted as a member of Company I, Eleventh Missouri Volunteer Infantry. He was first under fire at Tupelo, Mississippi, and later was present in some of the important engagements of the war, among them the battles of Nashville and Spanish Fort and was also in many minor engagements. He served his country valiantly and after the close of the war, in January, 1806, was honorably discharged and mustered out of service, returning to Morgan county, where he again resumed the peaceful pursuit of agriculture. At twenty-one years of age he began farming for himself as a renter of land in Morgan county and a few years later, after his marriage, he went to Crawford county, Kansas, with the intention of making his permanent home in that state. However, he did not find conditions as favorable as he expected and he again took up his residence in Morgan county, later spending a few years in Scott county, where he purchased fifty acres of land and also owned sixty acres which he inherited from his father. He sold his farm in 1889 and purchased land in Macon county, paying sixty-five dollars an acre, and here he established his homestead and now occupies a beautiful farm of one hundred and sixty acres on sections 7 and 8, Harristown township. Here he has met with gratifying success, in the pursuit of which he has devoted the principal years of his life. His farm is under perfect cultivation and he has erected good buildings, enlarged and remodelled his residence and made many other valuable improvements. He has seen no reason to regret taking up his home in this county.

On October 29, 1869, in Morgan county, Mr. Finson was united in marriage to Miss Susan Mansfield, a native of Morgan county and a daughter of James and Elizabeth Mansfield. Four children have blessed the union of Mr. and Mrs. Finson, William, born November 24, 1870, in Crawford county, Kansas, married Bertha Sanford and is now engaged in the grain business at Monticello, this state. Edward L., a resident of Niantic, who was born in January, 1872, married Ida Kapp and has one child, Maud C. Lena is now Mrs. Thomas Knapp, of Missouri, and the mother of one child, Harold. James lives with his brother at Monticello.

Mr. Finson, as was his father, is a supporter of the republican party and cast his first presidential ballot for U. S. Grant. He has never aspired to political honors, preferring to devote his time to private interests. He is a man of exemplary habits and although his name is not on the rolls of any religious denomination, he is a liberal contributor to all worthy causes and in all respects, as he has demonstrated through a life of usefulness, is a patriotic and loyal citizen.

Sard Giles

Sard Giles, a highly sucessful farmer of South Macon township, Macon county, was born in Meigs county, Ohio, December 27, 1850. He is a son of Andrew G. and Rebecca (Payne) Giles, both of whom were natives of Ohio. The father was a farmer and departed this life in his native state before the Civil war. The mother is still living in Ohio and has reached the advanced age of eighty-five years.

The third child of a family of four children, the subject of our review was reared upon the farm and educated in the public schools. He engaged in various ocupations and at twenty-three years of age, believing that more favorable conditions for a young man who had only his own resources to depend upon existed in Illinois than in his community, he came to this state and worked by the month until 1877, when he began farming upon rented land. At the end of two years he purchased eighty acres in Pleasant View township, this county, and later disposed of this tract and entered the tile business, to which he devoted his energies for about ten years, in the meantime, however, acquiring two hundred acres of land in Pleasant View township. Desiring to devote his entire attention to agricultural operations, he leased the tile factory, sold the land which he had acquired in Pleasant View township and purchased one Hundred and sixty acres in section 26, South Macon township, which he owns today. After living on this farm one year he moved to Macon and, prospering in his agricultural operations, he purchased one hundred and sixty acres in section 35, South Macon township, and later acquired one hundred and sixty acres more in the same township. He bought sixty-five acres in South Wheatland town- ship and there lived for three years, when he sold this property and bought an additional forty acres in South Macon township. Having purchased a residence in Macon, he moved to town and after three years became owner of the handsome residence in which he has since made his home. He is now the possessor of a beautiful farm of six hundred and eighty acres and is one of the progressive farmers of the county.

In 1885 Mr. Giles was united in marriage to Miss Margaret Davis, a daughter of Isaac and Maria Davis, both natives of Pennsylvania, who came to Illinois in the early days. Mrs. Giles was born February 22, 1862, and was seventh in order of birth in a family of nine children. To Mr. and Mrs. Giles two children have been born: Leta, born February 11, 1887, and married to William F. Timmons, of Macon county, mention of whom is made elsewhere in this work; and Elmo S., born November 28, 1892, and living at home.

Mr. Giles politically is in sympathy with the republican party, believing that its principles of protection and centralization are of very great importance in the maintenance of prosperity and for the perpetuity of the American republic. Since his early manhood Mr. Giles has been actively identified with general farming and live-stock raising, except during the time he was engaged in the tile business, and his operations have always reflected credit upon himself as a man of the highest integrity and honor and upon the vocation he so ably represents. He and his wife are attendants of the Methodist church and are liberal contributors to all worthy causes.

Merrill LeRoy Harry, general superintendent of the Decatur Railway & Light Company and recognized as one of the competent and progressive electrical managers of the state, is a native of Michigan and was born at Bay City, June 8, 1878, a son of Charles L. and Clara J. (Affleck) Harry. The father was born in Ohio and became a mechanical electrical engineer. He settled in Bay City, where he was married July 5, 1877. Mrs. Harry was born February 28, 1858, and was the eldest of a family of six children. She became the mother of two children: Merrill LeRoy, our subject; and Florence, who died at the age of five years.

The subject of this review received his preliminary education in the public schools and later pursued a course in a business college at Bay City. He began his active career in the employ of the street railway company in Bay City, where he advanced through various positions, going from Bay City to Kokomo, Indiana, where he acted as superintendent of the Kokomo Railway & Light Company, continuing in that position for six years. In 1901 he came to Danville, Illinois, in a similiar capacity and in 1903 was appointed general superintendent of the Decatur Railway & Light Company, continuing in that position ever since and performing his duties with a high degree of acceptance on the part of the directors of the company as well as to the satisfaction of the citizens generally. By years of practical experience he has become thoroughly familiar

On February 17, 1909, Mr. Harry was happily united in marriage to Mrs. Mildred O'Hara, a daughter of Howard M. and Mary Robinson, of Buffalo, Illinois. Mr. and Mrs. Robinson are the parents of three children: Mildred, herein mentioned; William, who died in childhood; and Harry now living in Buffalo, this state. One child, Mary Frances, born February 15, 1910, has blessed the home of Mr. and Mrs. Harry.

Mr. Harry is connected with a number of interests in the community, among which may be mentioned Ionic Lodge, A. F. & A. M., and Decatur Lodge, B. P. O. E. From the time of casting his first ballot he has been a supporter of the republican party, being a stanch believer in the principles of protection of American industries and centralization of power in the national government. Mr. Harry is a member of the Presbyterian church, while his wife's name is found upon the rolls of the Methodist church. He is identified with the Decatur Club and the Country Club of Decatur, the Missouri Athletic Club of St. Louis and the Decatur Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Harry has many friends in the various organizations with which he is connected and is equally popular among his business associates, who have great respect for his ability and good judgment.

Solomon Kitch

Living quietly in the evening of life, Solomon Kitch enjoys the respect and good-will of all who know him. He is a veteran of the Civil war, and therefore entitled to his country's gratitude. In days of peace he has been equally loyal to the best interests of city, state and nation, and his entire life has been characterized by qualities that have won him kindly regard. He was born in Lancaster City, Pennsylvania, October 1, 1830, and represents one of the old families of that state. His paternal grandfather, who was also born in Pennsylvania, devoted his active business life to farming and died in Lancaster. His son, George Kitch, father of Solomon Kitch, was also a native of the Keystone state, where he died when his son Solomon was but eighteen months old. He had there conducted business as a hotelkeeper. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Sarah Ann Goodman, was born in Pennsylvania and was married in Lancaster. Her father was a native of Germany, but when nine years of age came to the new world and spent his remaining days in Lancaster county. He drove a six-horse team from Lancaster to Philadelphia before the railroads were built. His daughter Sarah gave her hand in marriage to George Kitch and after his death went with her five children to her father's home in Lancaster county, living with him for several years. She again married, becoming the wife of Henry White. They resided upon a farm until the death of Mr. White in 1855, when she again became a resident of Lancaster. In 1859 she removed westward to Niantic, Illinois, where she purchased a home, which she occupied until her demise in 1869.

Solomon Kitch acquired his education in the public schools of Lancaster county. He remained with his mother until twenty-five years of age, when he was married and removed to Fort Wayne, Indiana, but after a brief period returned to the place of his nativity, where he engaged in laying water pipe. In 1857, however, he again left Pennsylvania, and on the 4th of March took up his abode in Niantic, Illinois, where he was living at the time of the outbreak of the Civil war. Bidding adieu to his wife and children, he offered his services to the government, enlisting in Company E, One Hundred and Sixteenth Illinois Infantry, at Decatur on the 6th of August, 1862. He served until the close of the war and was mustered out at Washington, D. C, receiving his pay at Camp Butler, Illinois, on the nth of June, 1865. He had served for nearly three years and participated in the battles of Arkansas Post, Kenesaw Mountain, Murfreesboro, Atlanta and Vicksburg. In the last named battle he was shot, but a box of cartridges which he had in his pocket saved his life. He also participated in the engagement at Missionary Ridge, together with many skirmishes, the regiment taking part altogether in sixteen hotly contested engagements. It was his brigade that captured Fort McAllister.

After the war Mr. Kitch rejoined his family in Niantic, but while he was absent at the front one of his sons had died. For several years following the war he engaged in farming and remained in that vicinity altogether for thirty years. He then went to Kansas, where he resided for a short time, and finally removed to Decatur, retiring from active business in 1895.

Mr. Kitch was married in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, on the 4th of March, 1855, to Miss Sarah J. Hammond, who was born in the city of Lancaster, March 27, 1835. Her father, George Hammond, was born in Massachusetts June 27, 1807, and removed to Maryland when his daughter Sarah was but six years of age. He afterward lived in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and subsequently in Grafton, Virginia, where he died November 18, 1869. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Julia T. Devault, was born in France, August 19, 1807. Her parents, after living for a time in Massachusetts, removed to Lancaster, Pennsylvania, where the death of Mrs. Hammond occurred February 18, 1877. She became the wife of Mr. Hammond on the 14th of February, 1828, at Savage Factor, Maryland, the wedding ceremony being performed by the Rev. Hoskins. In the Hammond family were twelve children.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Kitch there were also born twelve children: Walter F., born January 10, 1856, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, died on the nth of July of the same year; Laura A., born July 26, 1857, in Niantic, Illinois, was married June 10, 1892, to William S. Griswall, and is living in Decatur ; Julia, born in Niantic, October 31, 1858, died on the first anniversary of her birth; Harriet D., born July 5, i860, in Niantic, died on the 5th of September of the same year; Sarah E., a twin sister of Harriet, died only two days later; George H., born February 7, 1862, in Niantic, died on the 8th of October of the same year; Mary T. born April 25, 1866, in Niantic, is now the wife of John P. Martin, and has five children, Florence, Goldie, Elva, Herbert and Clarence, all of whom are living. Benjamin S., born in Niantic, November 1, 1867, and now a resident of Decatur, married Sarah E. Price and has three children, Mark, Marie and Paul. Ulysses was born February 7, 1870, and died on the 7th of August of the same year. Samuel, born January 19, 1871, died on the 19th of July, following. Arthur C, born May 27, 1872, at Niantic, died August 11, 1909, leaving a widow who in her maidenhood was Adeline Eassmah. Clarence A., born October 30, 1878, died April 25, 1906.

In politics Mr. Kitch has ever been an earnest republican since the organization of the party. He belongs to Dunham Post, No. 141, G. A. R., and his wife is a member of the Christian church. He has always endeavored to follow the golden rule, and he and his wife are undoubtedly among the most highly esteemed of the old couples of Decatur, being loved and respected by all who know them. They have long resided in Macon county, their residence here covering a period of more than a half century, so that they have witnessed much of the growth and progress of this locality.

Otto Frederick Bauer

Otto Frederick Bauer, one of the successful farmers of Macon county, now living on a farm of two hundred acres in sections 26 and 35, South Macon township, was born in Macoupin county, Illinois, October 11, 1871. He is the son of John Henry and Anna (Ahlers) Bauer. The father was a native of Germany and was born November 28, 1825. Seeking more favorable conditions than he perceived in the old country, he came to America in 1848 and settled in Macoupin county, where he was married four years later. For nearly fifty years he was identified with farming interests, departing this life in 1899. The mother was also a native of Germany. She was born November 11, 1832, and came to this country with her parents when she was about eighteen years of age, the family settling near Bunker Hill, Macoupin county, where she is now living. She was the mother of eight children, of whom the subject of this review was seventh in order of birth.

Educated in the public schools, Otto F. Bauer grew up as a farm boy and then went to St. Louis where he continued his studies in the public schools and entered the manual training school, which is one of the finest institutions of the kind in the United States, graduating with third honors in 1890 in a class of fifty-four members. He had been an earnest student and the position which he occupied in his class is an index of his ambition and of the zeal which he has displayed in everything he has undertaken. Returning to the home farm, he continued there until after his marriage, when he went to Macoupin county and in 1899 purchased ninety acres of land near Elwin, where he farmed for two years, at the end of which time he sold the farm and purchased the land where he now lives. Five years ago he built a handsome residence which is provided with all modern conveniences and he has made many improvements, adding greatly to the value of the farm. He engages in general farming and live-stock raising and does his work so well that he is always assured of handsome yearly returns.

In 1895 Mr. Bauer was united in marriage to Miss Carrie Otta, a daughter of August and Augusta (Durfer) Otta, who came from Germany to America in the '50s and settled in Missouri, but have since become residents of Decatur. Mrs. Bauer was born February 2, 1874, and has been to her husband a faithful and helpful companion. Two children have brightened their household: Myra M., born July 25, 1898; and Paul H., born April II, 1903. Mr. Bauer is identified with the republican party, but in local issues votes independent of any party ties. He is a valued member of the Congregational church of Bunker Hill and has many friends, not only in the church but among citizens generally, because of his recognized character for integrity and his friendly attitude toward all worthy movements aiming to make the neighborhood the best possible place of residence. Mr. Bauer is a man of good education and wide reading and has applied to his work thoroughly tested principles, so that the success he has gained has been well earned and gives promise of still greater returns in the years to come.

Dr. T. C. Buxton is both the architect and builder of his own fortunes and the years have brought him success, not because chance or fortune favored him but because he had courage and energy. Denied the opportunities which most boys enjoy, unable to read or write before he reached early manhood, he has overcome this lack of early education and has won for himself a creditable name as a representative of the profession of medicine, of law and of literature.

Dr. Buxton was born in 1875 m Benton county, Arkansas, in that little locality of Bear Hollow which the Civil war made famous. He is a son of Mills Buxton, a native of Morgan county, Tennessee, and a grandson of William Buxton, who was born in North Carolina. His mother bore the maiden name of Martha Mason and was a native of Macon, Mississippi. Both parents were of English descent. Mills Buxton was a Methodist circuit rider, traveling in that way through Arkansas and Missouri in his effort to influence the people through the teachings of the gospel. In 1878 he accepted a regular pastorate in the Methodist church of Winfield, Kansas, where he remained until his death, which occurred early in 1879. His wife passed away in Arkansas, March 5, 1875. She was a representative of an old southern family who owned slaves.

Following his mother's death Dr. Buxton was reared by an uncle, T. M. Mason, upon a farm in the midst of the Ozark mountains. There were no schools so that he was deprived of educational advantages, and feeling that his opportunities were very narrow and restricted there he ran away from home when fifteen years of age, going to Oklahoma and Texas, where he spent two years on a cattle ranch. On the expiration of that period he made his way toward Chicago, hoping to get work at the World's Fair grounds. As he had not the money for carfare he was making his way northward on a freight train but was thrown off at Decatur, June 3, 1893. He was absolutely penniless and found it very difficult to secure work, so that he had to depend upon charity for the means of subsistence for about three months. In September he secured a position with the Decatur Cracker Company at two dollars and a half per week. He worked with that company during the winter and in the following summer was employed at farm labor. He was unskilled in any trade and was uneducated, and realizing how great was his handicap on that account; in the fall he started to school at Casner, Illinois, being instructed by J. E. Underwood, who taught him to read and write. During that period he worked for his board for James Wycoff. After learning to read he advanced very rapidly. By the first of January he had completed the first seven grades, taking a final examination in a class of four hundred and eighty-two and making a rank of seventy-six. He worked through the summer and in the fall again attended school at Casner, completing the work of the eighth, ninth and tenth grades. Because of his age he fully realized the importance of improving every moment in school and made such progress that in the following spring he secured the position of teacher in what was known as the Whistleville school at Fort Daniels at a salary of thirty-five dollars per month. This was the most that he had earned up to that time. In the following summer he entered the Western Normal College at Bushnell, Illinois, after which he returned and taught the Prairie Hall school at fifty dollars per month. He attended the Western Normal again during the next summer and then under contract arranged to teach the Whistleville school for three years at a salary of fifty-five dollars per month. On closing the school he took charge of a threshing outfit for the summer and then resumed his teaching with the approach of winter.

Laudable ambition and unfaltering industry and determination constituted the salient points in his life and character during this period. In 1899 he entered the medical college at Keokuk, Iowa, and each summer during his college course operated a threshing machine. In the fall of 1900 he entered the St. Louis College of Physicians and Surgeons. Winning a scholarship in a competitive examination offered by the Missouri College of Law, he attended the law school at night in 1902 and the medical school in the day for two years. He was graduated in medicine in 1904 and has since engaged in practice. He is also a member of the Indiana bar and not only in professional fields has he won distinction but also in literary circles. In 1899 ne published the Blind Minister, a romance, and in 1900 brought out a pamplet on How to Read Character. In 1901 he was the author of a series of twenty articles on Medico-Legal Jurisprudence and fifty-two articles on Botany. The first was published by a St. Louis house and the second by the Trainer Educational Journal. In 1905 he published a book of poems entitled "Secret Haunt of the Exile," and in 1909 he began the publication of a journal known as the Coroner.

In 1904 Dr. Buxton was elected coroner of Macon county as the candidate of the republican party. He walked over the entire county making his campaign on a capital of sixty-five dollars and winning the election by a majority of sixty-five votes over the head of the ticket. This was the most phenomenal election ever held in the county. In that year he received a majority of thirtythree hundred and seventy. In 1908 Dr. Buxton again became a candidate for the office and was reelected, so that he is the incumbent at the present time.

In 1905 Dr. Buxton was married to Miss Anna Strope, a daughter of Phineas and Mary J. (Zinn) Strope, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania. They now have one child, Martha.

Dr. Buxton belongs to various fraternities and social organizations, holding membership with the Knights of Pythias, the Odd Fellows, the Red Men, the Eagles, the Woodmen, the Yeomen, the Brotherhood of American Yeomen, the Royal Neighbors, the Modern Americans, the Modern Brotherhood of America, the Mutual Protective League, the National Protective League, the Order of Pocahontas, the Woodmen of the World, the Woodmen Circle, the encampment of the Rebekah Lodge of the Odd Fellows and the Decatur Club. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Methodist Episcopal church. He resides on Cleveland avenue where he owns a good home and other city property, including eight houses valued at fifteen thousand dollars. His life is a notable example of what may be accomplished when one has the will to dare and to do, the courage to face hardships, the endurance to meet difficulties. Coming to realize what might be accomplished if one were fitted for the duties and responsibilities of life, and fired by a laudable ambition to advance, Dr. Buxton has directed his efforts into channels demanding strong mentality and liberal culture. He is today a forceful man who has won for himself a creditable position in the world of affairs; becoming recognized as an influential factor in the city which he has chosen as his home.

Charles A. Denison

Honored and respected by all, no man in Argenta occupies a more prominent position in public regard than C. A. Denison. His life record, too, proves that success is not a matter of genius, as held by some, but is rather the outcome of clear judgment, experience and close application, for while Mr. Denison inherited much of his property, in its management and in further investment he has proven his ability, his keen sagacity and his unfaltering enterprise. Those qualities are always indispensable concomitants of success and have been features in giving to him the creditable place which he occupies in the ranks of Macon county's leading business men. A native of Illinois, Mr. Denison was born in Newberg, September 24, 1868, the only son of Dr. Charles N. Denison, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work.

He was reared in Macon county, largely acquiring his education in Decatur, where he was graduated from the high school with the class of 1888. He afterward became a student in the State University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, completing the four years' literary course, and after his graduation he took up the study of law, devoting five and a half years to the mastery of the principles of jurisprudence. He was then graduated in the class of 1894 and located in Chicago, where he engaged in practice and also became a teacher and professor in a Chicago law school. He continued a member of the bar of that city until 1904, when he retired to Argenta to care for his father and look after his interests here. In the management of the father's estate he displays marked busi-

On the 12th of December, 1905, Mr. Denison was married to Miss Mary O. Colby, who was reared and educated in Decatur. They established their home in Argenta, where they now reside but they have a wide acquaintance in Decatur and other parts of the county and are eagerly welcomed into the best homes of this part of the state. Mr. Denison is a prominent member of the Masonic fraternity, belonging to the blue lodge, chapter and commandery at Decatur, to the consistory at Peoria and also to the Mystic Shrine of that city. In politics he has been a life long republican but has never sought or desired office, preferring: to devote his time to his extensive business interests.

William D. Creamer

William D. Creamer, whose demise occurred in July, 1908, was for a number of years successfully identified with agricultural interests in Maroa township. His birth occurred in Clermont county, Ohio, in 1861, his parents being John and Elizabeth Creamer, who spent their entire lives in the Buckeye state. The father died while a soldier of the Union army. Unto him and his wife were born six children, namely: Joseph, Mrs. Anna Long, Mrs. Elizabeth Garland, Mrs. Belle Long, William D. and Mrs. Malinda Hill.

William D. Creamer spent the first twenty-two years of his life in Ohio and then came to Illinois, here working as a farm hand for a time. Subsequently he rented a tract of land in Dewitt county, in the cultivation of which he wasactively engaged for four years. In March, 1894, he purchased a farm of one hundred and six acres in Maroa township, Macon county, which he operated successfully until his demise and which is now in possession of his widow. He erected a handsome residence and substantial barn and made many other improvements on the property. His labors as an agriculturist were attended with excellent results, and in his passing the community lost one of its most substantial and respected citizens.

In 1887 Mr. Creamer was united in marriage to Miss Minnie M. Grady, a daughter of John D. and Sarah J. (Wray) Grady, who were natives of Pennsylvania. They came to Illinois more than a half a century ago, settling in Dewitt county. John D. Grady died in 1898 but is still survived by his wife, who now makes her home with her children. They had six children, two of whom died in infancy. The others are as follows: Thomas C, Vance R., Mrs. Creamer, and Mrs. Clara A. McKinney, of Macon county. Unto our subject and his wife were born five children, namely: Edna P., whose birth ocurred in 1888 and who is now the wife of Fred Morgenthalor, by whom she has one son, Emanuel; Wray R., who was born in 1890; Hazel B., whose natal year was 1892; Stanley J., whose birth occurred in 1896; and Vance G., born in 1899.

In politics Mr. Creamer was a stanch democrat, while fraternally he was identified with the Modern Woodmen of America and the Knights of Pythias at Maroa. He passed away in the faith of the Methodist church in July, 1908, and was deeply and sincerely mourned by all who knew him, for his life had been upright and honorable in all its relations. His widow now manages the home farm with the assistance of her sons. She is well known and highly esteemed throughout the community, being a lady of many excellent qualities of heart and mind.

Henry J. Shafer

Henry J. Shafer, a well known farmer and stock-raiser of Macon county, was born near Rochester, Sangamon county, Illinois, August 16, 1870. He is a son of Joseph and Caroline (Wilkin) Shafer, both of whom were born in Westphalia, Prussia. The father was born August 4, 1828, and the mother September 19, 1824. They came to America in 1854 in the same ship, landing at New Orleans and traveling by water to Elkhart, Illinois. Mr. Shafer was provided only with money enough to carry him to the end of his journey and it was two years before he was married. That happy event occurred in March, 1856, at Springfield, Illinois, and for several years Mr. Shafer rented land near Riverton and also near Pleasant Plains, locating later at Rochester. He prospered in his work and in the fall of 1872 purchased one hundred and sixty acres in Niantic township, Macon county, which became the home place and cost fortyseven dollars and fifty cents per acre. He moved to his new home in March, 1873, and began making improvements, building a comfortable, two-story house of six rooms in 1882. As his means increased he purchased more land until he had acquired four hundred acres in sections 21 and 28 and gained a reputation as one of the substantial farmers of the region. He departed this life March 26, 1904, his wife have been called away August 6, 1890. Their remains were interred in Calvary cemetery, at Springfield, Illinois. Mr. Shafer was identified with the democratic party and was a stanch adherent of the Roman Catholic church of which his wife was also a member. He served as trustee of St. Mary's church at Illiopolis in the early days.

Seven children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Shafer: Theresa, the wife of Peter Stoffel, of Springfield; Mary, who married Henry Harbauer and lived at Springfield, departing this life August 27, 1890; Joseph, a railway man of Englewood, Illinois, who married Betty O'Brien, of Springfield, and is the father of three children, Joseph, Leo and Marie; William, a farmer of Illiopolis, who was born in Sangamon county November 28, 1863, and married Katie Dwyer, of St. Louis, May 4, 1910; Anthony, who was born in 1865 and died in November, 1909; Elizabeth, who married John Swanson, of Springfield, in 1895, and departed this life March 30, 1904, leaving two children, Clara and Samuel; and Henry J., our subject.

Henry J. Shafer was brought by is parents to Macon county in his infancy and has ever since made his home on the farm which his father acquired in this county and has become one of the leading farmers of Niantic township. He has been very successful in his vocation, and in 1906 purchased one hundred and twenty acres of land in Sangamon county, near his home, at one hundred and fifty-five dollars per acre. His brother William bought eighty acres in the spring of 1910 on section 28, Niantic township, for which he paid one hundred and eighty-five dollars per acre, and also one hundred and sixty acres in Stoddard county, Missouri.

On the 24th day of February, 1903, Henry J. Shafer was united in marriage to Miss Mary Kirby, of Illiopolis, and two children have been born to them, Helena and William Kirby. Mr. Shafer has been prominently connected with various movements of the farmers aiming to eliminate the middleman and is a director of the Illiopolis Farmers Grain Company which he and his brother assisted in organizing. He is a stockholder in the Niantic Farmers Elevator Company, a state director of the Farmers Grain Dealers Association of Illinois and was assistant secretary of the Macon County Farmers Intitute in 1908 and 1909. He has also been a delegate to the County Farmers Congress and also to the state convention of farmers. He is interested in all matters pertaining to education and serves with great acceptance as school trustee of his district. He is highly popular among his brother farmers on account of his public spirit and the interest he has shown in agriculture and stock-raising, without expectation of direct financial reward. He is earnest, patriotic and capable and is justly entitled to high credit for the excellent work he has accomplished.

William N. Huston

Upon the farm have been reared many of the best men and women of our republic and it is a fact often demonstrated that in agricultural regions are developed the strongest bodies and brightest minds, so that the cities are constantly looking to the farm for new supplies of energy and ability. However, not all the promising young men are absorbed by the cities. Many of our most successful and progressive farmers were born in the same county where they now live and among this number is William H. Huston, whose name stands at the head of this review.