Delavan Township

Delavan Township

The history of Delavan is peculiar to itself. It began with the Western trip of Deacon Jonas E.. Gale, which was made in 1836. Having met Mr. Wright, of Dillon, in the East, the latter invited him, in case he came West, to be sure and make him a visit. Deacon Gale, after making arrangements to settle at Alton, started for home, with the intention of visiting Tazewell county on the way. He was struck with the beautiful prairie land, which then abounded in all kinds of game, and he conceived the idea of having a colony, from Providence, R. I., settle on these lands. At Tremont he fell in with Mr. Edward C. Delavan, of Albany, N. Y., who took great interest in the proposed colony. The result was, that an organization was formed, with a capital of over $20,000, and 20,000 or 22,000 acres of land were entered. Over fifty heads of families agreed to come West and settle upon these lands, or to send a substitute to do so. Accordingly the land was laid off in 160-acre farms. A town lot of 300 square feet went with each farm, as it was thought the people would want to live in town in winter. The farms were bid off at auction, at Providence, so much being paid as choice money, independently of the regular price of the land ; the amount, in some cases, ran up to $1,000. Henry R. Green, Deacon gentleman named was the financial agent. Two rules of the association were, that the place should be called Delavan, and that it should be a temperance town. In 1837, the company sent out carpenters and material to erect the Delavan House, which was to be divided into compartments suitable for family house-keeping, for the accommodation of the settlers, till they should be able to build upon their own places. Part of the material for this building was shipped from Providence, via New Orleans and Pekin, part from Pittsburgh, Pa., and part came from the Mackinaw. The material for a few dwellings was brought from the East. W. W. Grossman, with his family, accompanied the carpenters, and his wife saw no white woman for three months. She lived until the winter of 1874, and was therefore a witness of the entire growth of the community. Mr. Grossman still lives, and enjoys pretty fair health in his old age. Gomparatively few of those who enrolled themselves as actual settlers came West, and the growth cf the colony was not as vigorous as had been expected. The Deacon left Alton about 18 months after the first settlement, and has lived in Delavan ever since. Himself and Mr. Grossman are the only surviving members of the original colony, James Phillips, another member, was closely identified with the place, died not long ago. In 1840, Ira B. Hall came to Delavan and opened the Delavan House as a hotel, though some slight accommodations had been offered there previous to this. The stage line from Ghicago via Peoria to Springfield, passed about one-half mile west of the village, and about four months after Mr. Hall opened the hotel, Delavan was made a stage stand. The telegraph line was put up in 1850, and Delavan became an important point. But a little later, before the G. & A. railroad was built, the poles were taken down, the stage withdrawn, and the place became shut out from the world. Atlanta was the nearest railroad point, and thither the people carried their produce, and made many of their purchases. This continued till 1868, when the branch of the G. & A. road was completed, and from this time the place began to grow with great rapidity. The first store was kept by a man named West, who was also the first postmaster, and who was succeeded by Ira B. Hall. It seems that James Phillips bought out West and kept a small stock of goods for a time. Geo. Straut and Putnam came along one day with a one horse peddlers' wagon, and they traded the horse and wagon with Phillips for the goods. Putnam kept the store, and Mr. Straut, who was a blacksmith by trade, went back to St. Louis to work. After a time he returned to Delavan, worked a while at blacksmithing, increased his stock of goods, and was soon doing a prosperous business. Mr. Straut became interested in Mason City and amassed considerable property, and now has an influential voice in the affairs of the C. & A. railroad.

At a meeting held in April, 1850, the township was organized, and the following officers were elected : Supervisor, W. W. Crossman ; town-clerk, Charles Grant ; assessor, Daniel Reid ; collector, Geo. P. Vincent ; overseer of poor, W. S. Caswell ; commissioner of highways, Geo. Teift, AV. S. Caswell, Folsom Dorsett ; constables, Geo. P. Vincent and John Reese; justices of the peace, W. S. Caswell, AV. C. Clark; overseer of highways, Hugh Reid; poundmaster, Simon Goodal. There is, perhaps, nothing of general interest in the history of the township till the time of the war, when an event occurred which was the cause of no little excitement. It was this :

Some time in 1864, Mr. James H. McKinstry, who had been chosen special agent by the town to provide volunteers, in order to fill out the necessary quota, and thus avoid a draft, lost |4,106 of the funds subscribed for this purpose, under the following circumstances. Mr. Mc'K., while at Springfield looking for men, learned that a number could be obtained at Alton, as Mr. Stephen Hobort, of Tremont, was going there, Mr. McK. handed him ^4,106 with which to procure men in that place. The money, as it was claimed, was stolen from Mr. H. The important question now arose as to who should bear the loss - the township, the parties who had subscribed the money, or one of the - gentlemen who had handled it, and which one. In 1865, at a town meeting, three resolutions were adopted. One to re-im burse Mr. McK. ; another to refund money subscribed by individuals to avert the draft; a third authorizing Mr. McK. to bring suit against Mr. H. To procure money for the carrying out of these resolutions, a tax of 3 per cent, on the assessed valuation, was ordered levied for town purposes. This was meant to include, also, the current expenses of the town. But an assessment of fifteen cents on $100 was amply sufficient jor town purposes, and an injunction was therefore issued from the Circuit Court, restraining the collection of this tax, on the ground that such a tax was not necessary for town purposes. The injunction was confirmed by the Supreme Court, though it provided that the town was to bear the expense incurred during the litigation, and then, after two or three years of intense local excitement, Mr. McK. was finally compelled to bear the loss himself.

Delay An Town

In 1858 the village of Delavan was incorporated, but opposition to the movement was so strong that the Trustees elected did not qualify, and the incorporation seems to have fallen through. It was organized Oct. 2, 1865, when it was voted to establish the corporaporation to include the old town proper, and its platted additions. The following were the first officials : Trustees - E. O. Jones, president ; L. P. Flynt, clerk ; J. C. Appleton, Stephen C. Hobart, Wm. B. Orrell, and P. Clark ; city marshal, J. H. Upham ; collector, Wm. Vaughn ; treasurer, D. L. Whittemore. The village was incorporated under the new State law in July, of 1872, with the following Trustees : Theo. Van Hague, president ; Wm. H. Phillips, clerk ; P. D. Stockwell, Henry Kingman, John Carr, Andrew Stubbs and John Warne. In 1874 the subject of license or no license came up, and the board stood four to two against the granting of license ; in '75, '76 and '77 licenses were granted ; but in '78 the board was again four to two against, and in '79 unanimous against authorizing the sale of liquor.

Delavan is one of the finest villages in the West. It is well laid out, is abundantly supplied with sidewalks, has good drainage, is lighted by about 40 street lamps, and has a Babcock Fire Co. and a Hook and Ladder Co. The stores are numerous and confined to one line of goods as a rule ; the houses are neat, with well-kept gardens, and the entire surroundings of the place, together with the manners and customs of the inhabitants, show at a glance that the community is composed of Eastern people. The place has a graded school, which, under the care of Mr. J. S. McClung and his assistants, has become one of the best schools of the kind in the State. A school building was erected at the time the Delavan House was constructed, and this building was also used for some time as a church. It is still standing. About nineteen years ago another building, with two rooms, was put up, which was used till 1871, when a fine brick edifice was erected at a cost of not far from $25,000. It was completed in the fall and in the following December it was destroyed byfire. An insurance of $22,000 on the building and furniture had been secured, and a new building, after the same design, was erected in 1872, at a cost to the district of only $250.

Baptist Church was organized Dec. 17th, 1846, with Deacons Henry R. Green, Jonas R. Gale, and Joseph Grant, John Daniels, Annes Green, Cynthia M. Gale, Sarah Grant, Eunice Hall and Mary Ann Phillips, as constituent members. The pastors, from the organization to the present time, have been. Rev. Nelson Alvord, John Scrogins, S. S. Martin, Wm. C. Pratt, R. Morey, L. L. Lansing and T. P. Campbell, who is now pastor and has served as such since January 24, 1872. The meeting house was dedicated April 2, 1854. The parsonage was finished during the year 1868, at a cost of about $2,500. In April, 1861, twenty-three members were dismissed to organize a Baptist Church at Green Valley, Illinois, and on September 5, 1868, nine were dismissed to organize a Baptist Church at San Jose, Mason Co., 111. Two of the former members, Daniel Drake and Chas. A. Reese, are ordained Baptist ministers. The former has been a missionary to the Telegoos for the last five years, and the latter is now the pastor of a church in Roxbury, Mass. There have been four clerks since the organization of the Church - J. R. Gale, D. A. Cheever, Daniel Cheever (who served in that capacity for twenty-three years) and A. B. Cheever. The officers of the Church at the present time are, Deacons, Edward Drake, W, Bower and T. E. Ward ; Trustees, G. D. Randolph, J. S. Hemstreet and Geo, Drake ; Clerk of Church, A. B. Cheever. The Church now numbers about 165 members.

M. E. Church. The M. E. Church was organized about 1850, and was at first merely a circuit station. George Miller and John Webster are said to have been the earliest preachers in charge. The first church building was erected about the year '52, and it is still in existence. A few years ago a fine brick church was built, and is a very commodious building. The church was organized with about 20 members, among whom were the following : Samuel Hall, Samuel Briggs, Jesse Trowbridge, John Fraze and Levi Cheever. There is a parsonage in connection with the church. At present the membership includes about 175 persons.

Presbyterian. On the 19th of June, 1855, Rev. W. T. Adams and Elder Cantrell organized this church, consisting of twenty-two members, viz : Wm. Dorrence and Mary J., his wife ; J. C. Duncan and Margaret M., his wife ; Mrs. Jane Davidson, J. H. McKinstry and Sarah J., his wife ; Mrs. Martha Crawford, Wm. E. McDowell and Elizabeth, his wife ; Miss Nancy E,. Davidson, Miss Sarah Bell Davidson, Mrs. Susan Work, John McKinstry and Anna M., his wife ; Ralph Martin and Eliza, his wife ; John Harbison, Thomas McKinstry and Mary A., his wife ; Jacob McCollister and Catherine, his wife. J. C. Duncan and Ralph Martin were elected ruling Elders, and John McKinstry and Wm. E. McDowell were elected Deacons, all of whom, except Ralph Martin (he having been a ruling member before), were ordained and installed in their respective offices by the committee of Presbytery. The Lord's Supper was administered for the first time by Rev. W. T. Adams, of Washington, Illinois. In July, 1857, being a little more than two years after its organization, the congregation began the building of a house of worship, which was finally completed at a cost of $4,400, and dedicated, free of debt, in July, 1859, being about two years after the work was begun. In 1872, the church building was remodeled and enlarged at a cost of $4,600. The pastors of the church have been as follows : Rev. S. M. Templeton, 1856-'67 ; Rev. Wm. Baldwin, '67-'89 ; Rev. R. C. Colmery, '69-'71 ; Rev. J. A. Hough, who was installed in April, 1872. The church has about 175 members.

Catholic. The Catholic Church was founded by Father Murtogh, in 1868. The principal benefactors were Messrs. Ryan, Leoni and Reardon. The membership numbers 400. Pastor, P. A. Macshaur.

This township, with its beautiful village, is inhabited by an enterprising, wealthy and cultured people. In these respects it compares favorably with any portion of the great Prairie State of like popu-

Joseph C. Applcfon is the youngest of a family of three chiklren, of Rev. Geo. W. and Mary (Guild) Applcton, natives of Mass. He was born in Sterling, Windham Co., Vt., May 18, 1825. His father was a Baptist minister and came to Delavan in 1848, where he died three years later. His mother passed from earth in 1859. Joseph C. had a good education and has been actively identified with the county's history for over twenty years. He has served seventeen years as Justice of the Peace. He is by trade a tailor. In 1853 he was married, at Woonsocket, R. I., to Frances Baken. They have one child. Politically the 'Squire is a Democrat.

Andrew W. Ball was born in Irvington, N. J., Mar. 17, 1834. In 1836, his father, Amzi Ball, moved West, to Fountain, Ind., where he remained for fourteen years. In July, 1851, he came to Tazewell county and shortly afterwards came to Delavan. His mother's maiden name was Mary Meeker. When a young man Mr. Ball taught school during the winter and worked in summer, and by diligence has made life a success. He is the possessor of 80 acres of land here and nearly 400 in Champaign Co. On the 27th of Dec, 1855, he was united in marriage to Elizabeth Mosely, at Delavan. The union has been blest with four children - Arthur A. the eldest, was born April 7, 1858 and died Mar. 5, 1859; Clarence H., born Sept. 26, 1860; Gertrude H., born Jan. 22, 1862, and Joseph H., born Mar. 20, 1866.

Uriah Briggs, farmer, section 7 ; was born in Ontario county, N. Y., April 9, 1829. His parents, Uriah and Mary (Holcomb) Briggs, were both born in Ontario county, and were farmers. Mr. B. was educated in the common schools and at the age of twentvone came to this county. Before coming, however, he was married, at Granger, O., to Cornelia Hatch, of Medina county, O. This memorable event of his life occurred on the 11th of April, 1850, and has been blessed with four children : Delia A., born Feb. 9. 1855, Adella M., born June 26, 1862, died Mar. 5, 1865, Jennie A., born Feb. 15, 1866, and Meloin E., born Dec. 28, 1872. P. O., Delavan.

/. H. Burlingame, farmer sec. 14; P. O., Delavan; was born in Meig Co., O., July 13, 1824. His parents were Edwin and Jane (Evans) Burlingame. When Mr. B. was a boy between four and five years old, his parents moved to Muskingum Co., where he received a good common school education. In 1851 he made his entrance into this county and located at Delavan. His parents moved to the same place about two years thereafter. Mrs. R. died March 25, 1875, at the ripe old age of 77. Mr. B. is still living and resides with one of his children. He is 82 years old. In March, 1869, this estimable couple celebrated their golden wedding. J. H. was married to Jane Allison, Jan. 1, 1851, at, or near, Zanes-

Robert W. Crothers. Dr. Crothers was born at»Mt. Pleasant, O., in 1833, and graduated at the Jefferson Medical College, of Philadelphia, in 1855. In 1856 he came to Delavan, where he has since engaged in the practice of his profession, in which he has been eminently successful. In addition, he has conducted a drug store there and in this he has also been successful.

Rudolph Frey, banker, was born in Germany Oct. 30, 1841. His parents, who were Germans, gave him a good common school education. At an early age he crossed the Atlantic and was landed in the United States ; and when only ten years old was brought to this county. Just as he was emerging into manhood, when he expected to enter upon the stage of active life, the Rebellion broke out. True to his adopted country and to the flag of our glorious Union, he shouldered his musket and went to the front to defend it ; and for three long and bloody years he served in the 94th Illinois Infantry. In 1865, at Pekin, Mr. Frey was united in marriage with Rose Clauser. They have one child. He has held a position on the Town Board of Trustees for some time and President of that body. He is a Republican in political views. Mr. Frey is a well known and respected citizen of this town and largely identified in the business interests of the place. His portrait may be found in this volume.

Elwood M. GarUek, printer, is a native of Pleasant Valley, Clark county, O., having been born at that place Sept. 19, 1849. His parents are Mortimore A. and Martha (Gilmore) Garlick. When a young man Mr. G. entered a printing office, in Loudon, O., where he acquired his trade. He came to this county when at the age of nineteen, and is now foreman of the Delavan Advertiser. He had the privilege of attending only the common schools, but the printing office is one of the best schools in the land. On the 9th of April, 1875, he was united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth Keefe, at Delavan. They have two children - Minnie M. and Mattie E. The latter died Nov. 27, 1877.

Augustus Giles came to this county, in 1858, and settled in Malone township, and came to Delavan in 1873. He now resides on section 18, and is engaged in agricultural pursuits. He is the son of Benjamin A. Giles and Mary Clauson, both natives of Middlesex county, N. J., where, in Piscataway, of that county, he was born July 5, 1824. He was raised on a farm, and engaged in the haypressing business before leaving New Jersey. At Plainfield, N. J., Jan. 18, 1846, he was married to Anna M. Brokaw. She is the mother of nine children, seven living, two dead. Mr. G. has served

Vandiver G-iles. This gentleman, who is engaged in farming, was born in Piscataway, Middlesex county, N. J., Oct. 15, 1822. His parents, Benjamin E. and Mary (Clauson) Giles, were also natives of Middlesex county. His father was a farmer and a weaver. Mr. G. was well advanced in life before he cast his lot and fortune among the people of this county. He came in Feb., 1865. Before coming to the West he was engaged in farming in his native county. In 1842, at the age of twenty, he was married to Miss Experience Giles. Twenty-one years later she died. She left three children, who are still living - Patterson S., Martha A. and Martin. Martha is the wife of Alfred Runion, who resides in this township. Paterson married Jane McCray, of New Jersey, and they now live in Terre Haute, Ind. Martin married Sarah Z. Runion, and resides in Delavan township. Mr. G. was again married in 1865, to Elizabeth D. Boice. For many years he has been a member of the Baptist Church.

Hon. Ira B. Hall is the eldest son of Preserved and Eunice (Browning) Hall, and was born in Exeter, R. I. Nov., 29, 1812. His father came to Delavan in 1844, where he resided until his death, which occured Oct. 26, 1847, in his 68th year. His wife passed from earth Sept. 20, 1849, and was in the 68th year of her age. Ira B. Hall had tlie advantage of only the common schools of his native State, but received good home training. Mr. Hall early in life went to New York city and engaged with a publishing house. He then returned home and engaged in teaching, which profession he subsequently followed, both in New York and Kentucky. He came to 111., and located in Springfield in 1839. Here he was intimately associated with Abraham Lincoln, Stephen A. Douglas and others of Illinois' honored sons. In Sept., 1840, we find him landlord of the Delavan House. July 4, 1845, he quit the hotel business and since has been mostly identified with agriculture. In 1840, Oct. 22, he was married to Miss Mary Elizabeth Thurston, of Lee Co., Iowa. By this marriage they had two children - Albert T. and Mary E. ^Mrs. Hall died Sept. 16, 1844. He again married Feb. 11, 1846, to Sarah A. Briggs, formerly of Providence, R. I. This union was blessed with two sons and four daughters. In 1870 Mr. H. was elected to the Legislature and served with distinction. He is one of the representative men of Tazewell Co., and as such we give a portrait of him in this book.

John Hays. This gentleman come to this country from Ireland, (where, in the county of Limerick, in June, 1823, he was born) in 1847. He lived in Saratoga Co., N. Y., for four years, and then came to this county and located at Pekin, where he lived for ten years. He then moved on his farm, sec. 23, where he has since resided and been quite successful. His parents were Patrick and Catherine (Mahoney) Hays. On the loth of April, 1855, he was married to Margaret Feehan, at Peoria. Miss Feehan was born Oct. 25, 1838, in Kilkenny, Ireland, and was brought to this country by her parents at a very early age. The names of their six children are - Anna, Kate F., Ella M., M. Louisa, Daisey E., Henry (died Oct. 24, 1872), and Edward J. Mr. H. is a member of the Catholic Church ; P. O., Delavan.

Joseph Holmes, farmer, sections 5 and 6 ; is the son of Joseph Holmes and Charlotte Few, of Cambridgeshire, Eng., where, July 5, 1825, their son Joseph was born. He came to this county in 1848, not until he had married, however; for we find, on the 22d of May, 1842, he was united in marriage with Mary Allgood, also a native of Cambridgeshire, Eng., but at the time of the marriage a resident of Lockport, N. Y. Their children - Alfred was born Jan. 25, 1845, Charles, born April 4, 1855, and Alice J., Mar. 24, 1863. Alfred served three years in the 73d 111. Infantry during the Rebellion. Mr. H. is a brother of Richard Holmes, and, like him, is identified with the Republican party. P. O., Delavan.

Richard Holmes, farmer, and Chairman of the Board of Supervisors, was born in Magora county, N. Y., Feb. 26, 1834. His parents, Joseph and Charlotte (Few)' Holmes, were natives of Cambridgeshire, Eng., and came to this country about the year 1837, and settled at Lockport, Magora county, N. Y., where they lived till

1848, when they came to this county and settled in Delavan township, where they remained till their death. His mother died April 14, 1867, in the 75th year of her age. His father died in April, 1871, at the advanced' age of 79. He was elected from the 27th District, in 1874, to the Legislature, and served the last session held in the old State House. In 1869 he was elected Supervisor, and has held the ofl&ce ever since except 1875. He has served six terms as Chairman of that body. Dec. 6, 1855, at Lyons, Wayne county, he was married to Lienor H. Carr. Their children are - Orville W., Kate E., Oliver, Frank, Laura and Willie. P. O., Delavan.

1849, and located at Rochester, N. Y. ; came to Henry, 111., where he remained till 1859, when he went t9 California overland. In 1861 he enlisted in the 2d Cal. Cavalry, Co. M., and was stationed most of the time at Utah. After his discharge, in Oct., 1864, he re-enlisted in Co. H., 4th Regiment of Hancock's Veteran Corps, organized at Washington, and stationed at Winchester, Md. ; then at Washington till the hanging of Mrs. Surratt ; then at Columbus till his discharge, Aug. 3, 1866. He was married to Mary Sann, at Delavan, in 1868.

Peter F. Johnson, farmer, was born in Sweden, Sept. 8, 1833. His parents were Jonas and Sarah Johnson. The elder Johnson brought his family to the Bishop Hill Colony, (Henry county. 111.) in 1846. The privations suffered were great. They walked from Chicago ; their onl^ food potatoes and corn-dodgers. About one- half of the colony, which numbered about 360, died. Mr. Johnson, after a month's sojourn, then became dissatisfied with the manner of life and the tyranny of Eric Jansen, the leader. He worked one winter for the board of his family, near Victoria, Knox county. His wife died one month after leaving Bishop Hill. His father put out his children to be raised, and Peter fortunately fell to the care of Horace Clark, the first Supervisor of Morton township. He remained with him until he was twenty-one. April 13, 1859, he was married to Emily Bowman, who was also raised by Mr. Clark, and under the same circumstances. She died July 18, 1877. Mr. J. was educated in common schools and the Academy of Knox College, Galesburg. His children are Ida E., born Dec. 29, 1862; Arthur L., Aug. 24, 1864; Edith M., July 20, 1869; Florence E., Mar. 27, 1872; Leslie H., Aug. 23, 1874. Residence, section 29. Post-office, San Jose.

Elias 0. Jones. Esquire Jones is a native of the Empire State, having been born in Berlin, Rensselser Co., of that State, July 21, 1820. He is the oldest son of Elias and Lydia (Sweet) Jones, also natives of New York. During the dark days of the Rebellion, he, with his brother. Dr. James A. Jones, enlisted in the 115th 111. Inf. His brother was Acting Surgeon of the regiment, when he was murdered by guerrillas near Tunnel Hill, Ga., July 11, 1864. After several months in the army Elias O. was obliged to quit the service, on account of disability. He came to Delavan in Dec, 1855. He has for many years held the position of Justice of the Peace. Mar. 13, 1843, he was united in marriage with Mary Brock way. She died Dec. 25, 1872, and in April, 1877, he was married to Mrs. Henrietta Barker, of Peoria, at Monmouth, 111. He has two children - Henry P., born Mar. 20, 1846, and James O., born July 20, 1847.

Gyrus M. Kingman was born in Deer Creek township, this Co., Sept. 20, 1839. His father, Abel Kingman, came from Mass., and his mother, Mary A. Kingman, came from Baltimore, Md., in 1831. They were married the following year in Elm Grove township. At that time there was but one other family living in the neighborhood, though the Indians were numerous. The elder Kingman served for several years as County Commissioner, and died many years ago. His wife continues to reside on the old homestead, in Deer Creek. In July, 1861, Cyrus M. enlisted in 47th 111. Inf, and served three and one-half years. He entered the service again as 1st Lieut, of Co. D., 152d 111. Inf. He participated in 37 engagements, and had a horse shot from under him, being himself slightly wounded. He holds commission of 1st Lieut, in the State militia. In 1867, May 27, he married Lucy Rouse, at Bloomington. Their children number four - one girl dead. Mr. K. is engaged in the hardware business. He has three brothers, all of whom are engaged at different places in the same business.

was born in New York. They settled in Fayette Co., Ind., early in the present century, where in 1821, Dec. 28, was born to them a son, the subject of this sketch. Ephriam Knott took great interest in preserving the Union when it was assailed by traitor hands. Although too old to take up arms, he contributed liberally for the cause. At the age of twenty-one, William was united in the holy bonds of matrimony with Margaret Clark, in Randolph Co., lud. Miss Clark was born in Montgomery Co., O. Their home has been blessed by seven children. The gloom of death has found its way over the threshold, however, and carried away one of the number.

Samuel Lmvton, jeweler, Delavan, came to this county in April, 1855. He was born July 12, 1831, in Warren, R. I. His parents, William B. and Sarah (Smith) Lawton, were also natives of Rhode Island. His educational advantages were limited to the common schools. He has acted as Township Treasurer for fifteen years. For many years has been connected with the Methodist Church. In October, 1856, he took unto himself a wife in the person of Albina Briggs, of Delavan. They are parents of four children.

George A. Martin, carpenter, Delavan, was born in Middlesex county, N. J., Nov. 30, 1821. His parents were Henry and Catherine (Strangman) Martin, who were natives of the same county. He was educated in the common schools and at the Semenary, at New Brunswick, N. J. Mr. M. came to this county in October, 1855, from New York city, where he lived five years. Jan. 1, 1850, he was married to Margaret Mundy, at New Brunswick. They have one child living, one dead.

John McKinstry, miller and farmer, is the son of Thomas and Isabella (Huston) McKinstry, and was born in Franklin Co., Pa., July 22, 1822. In May, 1855, he came to this county, and for nearly a quarter of century has engaged in active life here, winning the respect and esteem of all who know him, and being successful in his business career. He is now actively identified with the business interests of this place. His father was a native of Ireland, and was brought to this country when only four years of age ; his mother was born in Franklin Co., Pa. He held at one time a commission as Second Lieutenant, under D. R. Porter, in Co. A, 7th Regt., Pa. Vol. This regiment was organized previous to the Revolutionary War, and is still in existence. Sept. 12, 1843, he was united in marriage with Anna M. Work, of Pennsylvania. She died April 4, 1861, leaving six children. He was married a second time to Mary Hall, of Gettysburg, Pa., Dec. 21, 1863. Mr. Mc- Kinstry united with the Presbyterian Church in 1842, and has been a consistent, liberal and active member since. His portrait, as a representative citizen, may be found in this volume.

George Nichoh, farmer ; P. O., San Jose ; was born at Boston, Mass., Jan. 20, 1825, and is the son of John and Mary (Gordon) Nichols^ who^were natives of New Hampshire. Mr. Nichols' peo- pie came to this county in 1836, and after a little settled in Elm Grove township. They remained here till obout 1854, when they removed to Prairie Creek, just over into Logan county. Here John Nichols died, in 1871, and his wife a few years after, both at a good old age. The family consisted of four boys and four girls, three of whom settled in Kansas ; one died 32 years ago, at the age of 11 ; a sister, the wife of William Jones, lives on the old homestead next to Mr. Nichols' home. The latter moved to Prairie Creek, in 1856, and he still occupies the same place which he did while in Logan county, is still a part of the original township of Delavan. His home is one of the finest country residences in this section. He owns 330 acres of land in Tazewell county, and 240 in Logan. He was married Feb. 14, 1854, to Caroline, daughter of Thos. Edes, of Elm Grove. He has had six children, five of whom are living, viz: Ella E., born April 6, 1857, died September, 1858; Norman T., born June 23, 1860; Enos R., born Dec. 18, 1863; Clara G., born Oct. 16, 1866; Gertrude E., born Feb. 15, 1871 ; Jessie M., born Jan. 4, 1S79. Mr. Nichols boyhood was spent in this county, when the schools were neitlier good nor plentiful, and he therefore did not enjoy very fine educational advantage. But he was blessed with good common sense, was energetic and industrious, and has achieved that success in life which those ({ualities are bound to bring. A portrait of Mr. Nichols appear in our Delavan group.

John L. Orendorff. The family of Orendortfs, since the organization of Tazewell county, have been prominently identified with its history. The name has numerous representatives residing in the county at present, which are, in general, descendants of the old pioneers. The gentleman whose name heads this sketch, is a representative of the earliest pioneers of the county. Enoch and Rosanna Orendorff came from Kentucky to Tazewell county as early as 1826, While living in Hopedale township, and Sept. 15, 1835, John was born to them. He received a common school education in that township, moved to Delavan, and is now engaged in the jewelry business, in whl(;h he has been successful. In July, 1858, at Delavan, he was married to Mary Arnold. One boy and two girls have blessed the union, all of whom are living.

Qaintus Orendorff] son of Enoch T. and Rosanna Orendorif, was born in Tazewell Co., 111., Nov. 10, 1828. His father was one of the earliest pioneers of this Co., having come here in 1826. He died April 2, 1852. The death of his wife occurred April 15, 1851. Quintus received such school training as the common schools aiforded in pioneer times. He embarked in business life in Delavan. He erected a steam flouring mill here in 1855, which was the first in the town. This proved a financial detriment. He then went to Mason City, 111., and engaged in the mercantile trade. He remained here for eleven years, when (1866) he returned to Delavan and went into merchandising. He is a live enterprising business man and respected by the whole community. He married Miss

Emma E. Kelley Sept. 24, 1854. This union has been blessed with five children, the names of whom, in the order of their births, are - Oren B., Anna B., Olive B. (deceased), Charles B. and Jesuline B.

George W. Patten. This gentleman was born in Jeiferson Co., N. Y., May. 8, 1836. He is the son of John A. and Betsey E. (Caster) Patten. He received a liberal education in the common schools and Lowville Academy, Lewis Co. He has been engaged in farming during the greater part of his life, and in addition has conducted a hardware store in Delavan for four years. He has, however, disposed of both his store and farm. He served three years in 73d 111. Inf., enlisting in July, 1862. He is now Captain of Co. K. 7th I. N. G. This company is made up of citizens of Delavan. He led to the marriage altar in 1867, Sept. 10, Lottie J. Holmes. Their children are John A., born Sept. 27, 1868, Maggie B., Nov. 27, 1869, Zeboim C, Sept. 15, 1875, and George H., Oct. 15, 1877.

/. B. Phillips, merchant, is the son of ^enoni and Lucy (Fry) Phillips, who were both natives of Khode Island. He was born in Providence, of that State Nov. 7, 1828. He attended the common schools of his native city and obtained a good education. A few months before he attained the age of eighteen (June, 1846) he came into this county. For a period of twenty-five years thereafter he was engaged in farming on sec. 3, of Delavan township. He then embarked in marcantile business in Delavan, and has been successful at both occupations. For several years he has been a member of the Town Board, of Delavan. Jan. 31, 1843, he was united in marriage with Ann Hoghton, in Delavan. Two children, a boy and a girl, bless their home.

James Ryan was born in Limerick Co., Ireland, in 1811, and his parents were John and Johanna (Leyston) Ryan. On Feb. 18, 1842, he married Margaret Hayes, who was born in the same county, Oct., 29, 1825. Mr. Ryan was a poor man, and, though he had a strong affection for " old Ireland " he decided to try his fortune in America. He came to this country in 1851, leaving his wife and four children behind him. Shortly after his arrival he went to Delavan, and after working three years he saved sufficient money to send for his family. After a few years he was able to buy some land, to which he has, from time to time, made additions and he now has a farm of 415 acres with excellent buildings. The names of his children are as follows : Johanna, John, Patrick, Michael, Catherine, (died Dec, 1851), James, (died in 1856) Catherine, James, William (now at school at Notre Dame, Ind.) Daniel and Margaret Idella. Besides these they have an adopted daughter, Johanna Dohaney and a grandchild, Margaret Ryan, now living with them. Mr. Ryan is a Catholic, and is one of the principal men in the Church at Delavan. He votes with the Democratic party.

Scott, was born in Scotland, Dec. 8, 1797. Mr. Scott came to this country in 1830 and settled iii Rhode Island, where he worked at cotton spinning till 1843, when he came to Logan county. 111., and engaged in farming. In 1854 he made another move and came to Delavan where he has since lived. Sept. 1, 1819, he wes married to Sarah R. Bell, in Scotland. Twelve children were born to them. Mrs. Scott died in July, 1854, at Delavan. He was married again, Aug. 7, 1855, to Mary Pratt. Of Mr. Scott's children five sons and two daughters still live, - Simon lives in Atlanta, 111., John resides in Delavan, Dr. George, at Sedalia, Mo., William and Norman F. at Delavan. One of the daughters is the wife of Harvey Pratt, of Pekin, the other is Mrs. Elizabeth Perrin, who lives in Kansas. Of the dead children, one of the first born died in Scotland ; two died young in Providence, R. I. ; a daughter married John Phillips and died in Delavan in 1872 ; Richard enlisted in the 73rd Illinois Infantry and was wounded in the battle of Franklin, Tenn., in 1864, and died shortly after at Jeiferson Barracks, Ind. His body was brought home and buried at Delavan. Mr. S. has for many years been a member of the Christian Church.

John N. Snedeker was born in Mercer county. New Jersey, Feb. 18, 1832, and he is the son of James W. and Ann (Newell) Snedeker. He learned the trade of harness making in the East, but on coming West, he settled on a farm in Delavan, and later he moved into Boynton. He has always enjoyed the highest esteem of his neighbors, and has represented Boynton in the Board of Supervisors. He still owns a fiirm in Boynton, but is engaged in harnessmaking in Delavan. He was married Nov. 20, 1853, to Miss Amanda ]\Ieranda, of Warren county, O.

Arthur Stubbs, of the firm of Stubbs & McKinstry, millers, proprietors of the Young American Mill. This genteman, who represents one of the important business interests of the county, was born in Sheffield, England, Dec. 11, 1837, and is the son of George and Harriet Stubbs. In 1849, his father crossed the Atlantic to this country, leaving his son, then only twelve years old, in England. He remained only two years, when he too sailed for the United States. His father settled in St. Louis. Arthur was not long in this country before he found his way to Tazewell county, for he arrived at Pekin in 1861. He remained in that city for two years, and then went to Morgan county, but returned to Tazewell in 1866, and two years thereafter moved into Delavan, and, in connection with Mr.'Starz, built the Delavan City Mills. Later he sold his interest in that mill and built, in 1870, the Young American Mill, with Mr. Ironmonger and C. L. Booth. In 1873, Mr, Booth sold his interest to Mr. John McKinstry, and the present firm was organized. In February, 1861, Mr. S. was married to Celia Ann Sanford, of Macoupin Co., 111. They have seven children living, one dead. Mr. S. is connected with the Presbyterian Church. Ebeii a Teft, farmer, section 9 ; was born Dec. 24, 1829, at East

Greenwich, R. I. His parents were George and Eliza A. (Clark) Teft. His father came to Delavan, in 1841, and bought a farm and lived there until his death, which occurred Feb. 17, 1874, at the age of 67. In the spring of 1852, the subject of this sketch crossed the plains to California. He remained on the Pacific slope over thirteen years, when he returned to Delavan. He was united in marriage with Jane Rose, of Fulton county. 111., at Delavan, Nov. 2, 1873. Their children, Eliza and Rosa May, were born, respectively, Aug. 15, 1874 and Nov. 25, 1877. Religiously he is nonsectarian. Post-office, Delavan.

Henry H. Tomm, grain dealer, Delavan ; son of Joachim and Carolina (Nunke) Tomm, was born in Prussia, Germany, Dec. 31, 18391 He came to this country at the time his father's family did. He attended the schools of Prussia and Quincy College, Quincy, 111. He first entered the dry goods business, but now deals in grain. He served in Co. C, 139th 111. Infantry, during the late war. He is of the Lutheran faith, religiously.

James H. Upham was born March 26, ] 820, at Sand Lake, N. Y. In '49 he went to California at the breaking out of the gold excitement. After spending two years there, he decided to try his fortune in Australia, where he remained nearly two years more. Leaving Australia Mr. U., and George Chase, the companion of his travels, sailed for the western coast of South America. Greatly impaired in health, and with no desire to catch the yellow fever, which was at that time raging there, Mr. U. decided to return home, which he did after an absence of four years. Few men have had so varied an experience as has fallen to the lot of Mr. U. He not only encountered the usual dangers of mining life, but twice narrowly escaped death on the sea. The vessel on which he sailed to Australia was unseaworthy, and as she carried a heavy insurance, there were strong indications that the owner intended that the boat should not reach her ultimate destination, though, as he himself was on board, his plan was to run upon the rocks near the Australian coast. Convinced in his own mind that such were the facts, Mr. Upham and his chum left the vessel at Sidney, with the intention of making the 100 miles to Melbourne afoot. Whether his suspicions were correct or not a typhoon suddenly struck the vessel and she went down with the most of those on board, including the owner. The news of the lost vessel reached America, and Mr. U.'s friends, not receiving any of his letters, mourned him as dead ; nor did they get any information from him till he himself appeared two years later. Again, when sailing for South America, a watery grave seemed to await the entire crew. The vessel was conveying sand ballast, and when in mid-ocean sprang a bad leak. The sand got into the pumps, which, continually clogging, could not be worked to any advantage, whatever. There was no ship-carpenter aboard, and matters became worse and worse. Mr. Upham was lying sick at the time, and knew nothing of the state of aiFairs till his companion told him they had to go down. "Why can't we put in mining pumps?" said the sick man. Sure enough, why coukhi't they"? They would pump water, sand, or whatever came in their way. They were both carpenters, and after consulting the captain, who was very glad to receive a suggestion from anybody, a number of pumps were soon in operation and the vessel saved. Some time after reaching America Mr. Upham again came to Delavan, where he has since lived, serving, for ten years, in the different capacities of Constable, City MarshTd and Deputy Shcriif. He was married, May 20, 1857, to Catherine Mounts, who died Jan. 13, 1861, leaving two children, Ella and Charles; was again married, Jan. 2, 1866, to Mary Rugg, who was born, Sept. 25, 1834, in Oneida Co., N. Y. One child, George H., has been the result of this union.

Isaac Vanicy, farmer, sec. 1 ; P. O., Delavan ; was born in the District of London, Canada, June 4, 1826. His parents were Smith V. and Mary (Johnson) Varney. His father was a native of New Hampshire, and when a young man went to Canada to engage in school teaching. He remained in the Queen's dominion for about fifteen years, and while there married jSIiss Johnson. After this event of his life he changed hi:; profession for the life of a farmer, and came to this country in 1839, and settled north-east of Washington in what is now Woodford Co. At this time Isaac Varney was about nine years old. His father died in Dec, 1843, and the widowed mother with her family came to Delavan the next year. March 5, 1857, Mr. V. was married to Eliza Allgood, who was born in England, Nov. 2, 1831. She was brought to this country when an infant child They have had born to them four children, two of whom are now living - George E., who was born Oct. 7, 1859, and Flora I., born May 27, 1864. Mr. V. is connected with the M. E. Church and identified with the Republican party.

William A. Vaughn, farmer, section 9. This gentleman, who has been residing in this county since October, 1851, was born in Coventry, R. I., Nov. 6, 1827. He is the son of Caleb Vaughn, also a native of Rhode Island. He was privileged to attend the common schools of Providence, where he attained a good education, which, with his practical knowledge, has enabled him to meet with success in life. He has held local offices but is no office seeker. In 1855 he united his fortunes with those of Susan OrendorfF, of Hopedale. This union has resulted in the birth of three children - one boy and two girls.

Hugh A. Work, farmer and clerk, came to this county in the fall of 1847, and located in Groveland township. In the spring of 1852 he moved into Dillon, and nine years later came into Delavan. During this year the flag of our country was assailed by rebel hands, and in the month of September Hugh enlisted in the 4th 111. Cav. ; served three years and four months, and in Feb., 1865, re-enlisted in Hancock's Veteran Corps ; served till the close of the war. Shortly after Lincoln's assassination this regiment was ordered to

Washington, where it remained for three months, and then to Albany for that length of time. He was mustered out that fall, at Elmira. Hugh A. Work was born in Franklin Co., Pa., June 15, 1827. His parents, Henry and Susan C. Work, were also born there. In June, 1852, he was married, in Pekin, to Harriet Hill. Their children number seven, one of whom sleeps in eternity.

Jacob Yontz, farmer, son of Jacob and Fanny (Lehman) Yontz, was born in Lancaster county, Pa., Jan. 14, 1835. When a young man he came West, with only money enough to pay his fare. Arrived in this county April, 1852. He worked out a number of years, and in 1854 bought 40 acres of land. He now has 160 acres on section 29. He enlisted, in Oct., 1861, in Co. H., 4th 111. Cavalry. He served mostly in Tennessee, Mississippi and Louisiana ; took part in the battles of Fort Henry, Donelson, Shiloh and others. He was mustered out in Dec, 1864, at Natchez, Miss. He has been married twice. His first wedding occurred Jan. 17, 1860, at Springfield, 111., when he was united in marriage with Anna M. Cochran. She died Dec. 23d, of the same year. He was again married Aug. 26, 1866, this time to Kate Cummings, at Mt. Pulaski, 111. His children were born as follows: Samuel J., born Dec. 16, 1860; Laura F., Oct. 30, 1867 ; Robert A., Aug. 24, 1870; William E., July 7, 1873, died Aug. 25, 1875; John, June 2, 1875. Politically, Mr. Y. is a Republican. Post-office, San Jose.

Sarah Youle, widow of the late William Youle, was born in England, July 28, 1819. William Youle, her husband, was a native of the same country, and born Jan. 4, 1823. Her maiden name was Sarah Askren. They were married May 6, 1845, in England, and came to this country in June, 1851, and to this county the following autumn. Thev did not locate in Delavan till 1866. From 1858 till 1866 thiey lived just across the line, in Mason Co. Mr. Y. engaged in farming during the greater part of his life. He also was an extensive stock raiser and stock dealer. From 1873 till his death he was engaged in the lumber business, and was a member of the firm of Youle & Brunson. His death occurred Aug. 4, 1878. He was a man loved and respected by all who knew him. In business, enterprising and successful, as a citizen, honored and esteemed, and as a husband and father, loved. He was the first to introduce osage hedge, for fences, into this county, and was for a time engaged in the hedge business. The marriage above referred to was blessed with nine children - Michael A., died in Iowa in 1869; Leathan, died Oct. 8, 1861 ; Wm. S. ; Elizabeth D. ; Laura J., died Dec. 15, 1875 ; Emma, George S. and Ada M.