Erie Township

Erie Township

tf the ist day of March, 1852, notice was given by order of the County Commissioners that an election would be held at the house of Samuel D. Carr in the town of Erie, on the first Tuesday in April, for the purpose of choosing township officers and perfecting the township organization underact of Feb. 17, 1851. At this meeting James Early was chosen Moderator and Addison Farrington Clerk. There were 29 votes cast, resulting in the election of Charles R. Coborn for Supervisor, Addison Farrington for Clerk, M. G. Wonsor for Assessor, James McMillin for Collector, and John Freek for Overseer of the Poor. James Early was elected Commissioner of Highways, and N. K. Chapman, L. F. Crandall and James McMillin Constables. Esquire Wonsor swore the Moderator and Clerk in for the faithful discharge of their duties.

This township was formed from Erie Precinct, which was established Dec. i, 1844, by order of the Commissioner's Court. It formerly composed a part of the territory of Albany and Lyndon Precincts. Its present territory embraces all that part of the Congressional township 19 north, of range 3 east, and so much of township 19 north, of range 4 east, as lies north of Rock River, which winds around the southeastern portion, containing in all 14,392 acres. On the north it is bordered by Newton and Fenton Townships.

In some portions of this township, the land is rolling, with occasional ridges of sand. But the great body of it is is low and flat. When drained and brought under cultivation it is rich and very productive. The land is better adapted for dairying and stock-raising, and in this department are the farmers mostly engaged. It is very well watered, having the Rock River, which skirts its southeastern border, and several small streams. The township is

In the northwestern part of the township, and extending into Fenton Township, lies in quiet repose a very pretty little lake. Beneath its clear waters, spotting about, are fish of different species, while its borders are fringed with beautiful trees. This lake is over a mile in length, and from a quarter to an eighth of a mile in width.

Rock River runs along the eastern and southern line, and Rock Island County lies on the west. The people of this precinct voted against township organization in November, 1851. Of the 29 voters for the organization of the township in 1852, nine are still living, five of whom voted at the spring election, April 7, 1885 - W. W. Hubbart, N. K. Chapman, A. J. Osborne, Harvey Steele and L. F. Crandall. Thos. Freek still resides in Erie, and the other three in different parts of the country. [Since the above was written, Mr. Freek has deceased, dying July 4, 1885, at Erie.]

The first settlers to occupy this territory were Lewis D., John and Lafayette F. Crandall, John Freek and Joseph Fenton, David Hunt and Peter Giles in the fall of 1835. The Crandalls came from Erie County, N. Y., which is bordered by Lake Erie ; and, desiring to have same associations of their former home around them, they gave the name of Erie to the new settlement. John C. located on section 19, Lewis D. and Lafayette on section 18, and David Hunt on section 25. George Steele located on section 7. The Crandall boys came with their parents, .who located at Grand de Tour, on Rock River. They all came by wagon from New York. They started from their old home April 3, 1835, and arrived at their new home the latter part of May. The roads were not the best in those days, and sometimes) if they diminished their journey by a mile they thought they were making a good day's work.

Following the pioneers mentioned above were George, Henry and Harvey Steele, from Connecticut ; Samuel Carr, Orville and Alvin Brooks, James Hamilton, Charles R. Coborn and William Teats, from New York, and Arthur Putney. Ernest Warner, from Massachusetts. The pioneers upon their arrival commenced the construction of rude cabins for their habitations, Mr. Hunt's cabin being the first put up and Peter Giles' the next.

A very sad incident occurred about this time. Peter Giles, after getting his cabin ready, started back to Dixon after his family and goods by way of Rock River. He had, in which to embark his precious freight, two canoes which were lashed together, and was accompanied by Lewis D. Crandall. Having embarked their worldly possessions, they started down the river in their frail canoes. The party consisted of Mr. Giles and wife, a son of six and a daughter of three years, and Mr. Crandall. The two children were put into a dry -goods box. The current of the river was very strong and they glided along very swiftly and smoothly toward their future home. Night had come on, and they were approaching Rock Creek when they ran into a tree-top which had fallen over from the banks of the river and lay out in the stream. The suction here tipped the canoes over and drew them under. The dry-goods box was thrown out and, turning around the tree, floated down the river. The remainder of these voyagers, Mr. Giles and wife and Mr. Crandall, clung to the branches of the tree. Crandall was the only one that could swim, and he struck out for the shore and to get a boat to rescue the party. The children had been given up as lost.

Mr. Crandall had to go some distance for a boat. Upon returning up the river to the tree he met the dry-goods box floating down. The boy was on top, and called out to the man in the boat to take him on board, as his boat was full of water. Mr. Crandall rowed up to the box and took the boy in, and, turning the box over, found the little baby girl inside, drowned. Going on to the tree, the father and mother were rescued and taken ashore in a very chilled and exhausted condition. Some of the goods were afterwards recovered. Mrs. Giles, from her exposure and sufferings, was thrown into a fever from which she died in a few days, having been cared for and nursed by her husband, her only physician, nurse and friend. She was buried with her little drowned child, which were the first interments in Erie Township. The boy was afterwards drowned in Rock River, three miles below the town of Erie, by the capsizing of a skiff in which he was being carried.

There were a few Indians here when the first settlers came in, but they soon went off, passing beyond the Mississippi. They were peaceful, and annoyed the settlers only by small thefts.

The first matrimonial alliance was between Lewis D. Crandall and Phcebe Hunt, in 1838. The first child born in the township was a daughter to Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Putney, in the summer of 1838. She was named Louisa, and was a fair but delicate flower, and died in her fifth summer. The first school taught was in the summer of 1842, by Marv Ann Sprague, in a log school-house erected where Lyndon Street now is in the village of Erie. Horace Cole taught here the following winter, and is spoken of now by the old citizens as a good teacher.

Of the early settlers, Lewis D. Crandall died in Colorado, in 1860. John Crandall died in Edgar County, 111. Peter Giles moved to Oregon, and is still living. Daniel Hunt died in Erie, and is" buried by the side of his father (who came to Erie Township after him) in the Erie Cemetery. John Freek, who was an active man, and aided very much in the establishment of school and religious societies in the new country, emigrated to Kansas, where he died. He came from England, in 1830, locating for a while in New Jersey, where he was married to Miss Fenton. George Steele died in 1872, at his old farm house on section 7. His widow, whose maiden name was Mary Ann Pingree, is living on the homestead.

The first mail service in the township was from Dixon to Rock Island. A. L. Porter was the mail carrier. The first postoffice established in the township was at Crandall's Ferry, two miles below the village of Erie.

June 5, 1844, a fearful tornado swept over the country, and struck Erie Township on its devastating course. It passed through the middle part of the township, coming from the west across the Mississippi. It laid Lewis Crandall's house flat and scattered the household goods. No lives were lost in this township, but stock and fowls were killed. One of the finest groves in the county, near Crandall's house, was torn up, and large trees were broken down. It plowed its way through the river, carrying fish and shells to some distance. Many persons were injured, but none dangerously, which was regarded at the time as miraculous.

Regarding schools, the County Superintendent, in his report for the year ending June '30, 1884, furnished the following information : Number of districts, eight, in all of which there were frame buildings; valuation of school property, $2,100. Of persons under 21 years of age there were 339, of whom 269 were of scholastic age, 184 being enrolled. The highest wages paid teachers was $55, and the lowest wages was $20 per month. The tax levy was $5,215.

From the Assessor's report of 1884 the following information is obtained : Number of acres of improved land, 4,759; valuation of improved land, $45,996; total value of town lots, $24,365 ; total value of personal property, $33,588; number of horses, 397; asses and mules, u; cattle, 974; sheep, 172; hogs, 596; steam engines, 2; carriages and wagons, 115; watches and clocks, 125 ; sewing and knitting machines, 79; pianos, 10; organs and melodeons, 22. Total number of lands, lots and personal property) $141,046.

HIS village was incorporated under an act of the Legislature, approved April 10, 1872. An election was held under the same act, Sept. 21, 1872, at which the following named officers were elected : Joseph Grover, Andrew J. Osborne, Q. Johnstone, James Collins, William L. Mitchell, and John D. Trenton, as Trustees. This Board, on as sembling at Mitchell

& Worrell's building, elected Joseph Grover for President, John D. Fenton, Clerk, and William L. Mitchell, Treasurer. Its location and corporate limits, are described as follows : The south half and the northeast quarter of section 6, and the north half of section 7, in township 19 north, of range 4 east of the 4th principal meridian.

This village is prettily located, and surrounded by a rich farming country. The first hotel opened here was by Samuel D. Carr, in 1838. It was located near the present site of the St. Nicholas House. It was a log building, simple and plain in appearance, yet it was noted far and wide for the good cheer within ; and for its well-filled larder and comfortable beds. The landlord of this pioneer died in June, 1 86 1, and was buried in Erie Cemetery, where a pretty little monument is erected for his memory.

M. G. Wonser opened the first store in the village, which was the first in the township. He opened his store with two wagon-loads of goods, which included what was of considerable importance in those days - a barrel of whisky. Before this store was opened the people used to go across the river to Shannon, in Portland Township, to do their trading. Mr. Wonser died in 1883. His widow is still living in Erie. Dr. Plimpton, a Methodist preacher, held the first religious services here in a public building. This was during the summer of 1842.

There is but little manufacturing carried on here. For the maintenance and growth of the town the citizens depend on the agricultural industries surrounding it. Its population is estimated to be about 600. The people are industrious and temperate in their habits, and there prevails among them a neighborly feeling, which is commendable.

The beginning of the town may be dated from the opening of Mr. Wonser's store, which was in 1850. Samuel Carr's tavern was already here. A blacksmith shop for horse-shoeing and repairing was started by Henry Bolton. This same year (1850) Dr. Fetters came in to attend to the physical and C. C. Teats to the legal wants. The postoffice had been moved up from Crandall's Ferry in the spring; so their mail facilities were satisfactory. The religious wants of the villagers were also looked after, there being preaching by the representatives of the different Churches from time to time in the schoolhouse and in private houses. But the first church building was put up in 1854 by the United Brethren. Mr. A. J. Osborne materially assisted the growth of the town by furnishing the people with lumber from his saw-mill, which he started in 1855, and which was the first in the town. As the town grew a desire to have railroad communications became uppermost in the minds of its citizens. They were doomed to disappointment, however, for many years. The Sterling & Rock Island Railroad was perfected in 1855, and farmers and real- estate owners mortgaged their property heavily to assist the enterprise ; but it all ended in disaster. After several years the project was again taken up, and in 1869 a road was constructed through this county called the Rockford, Rock Island & St. Louis Railroad. The first train of cars came into Erie Jan. 20. The year before, anticipating the advent of the railroad, Messrs. Simonson & Ritchie put up a steam flouringmill. From this time on the town had a substantial, healthy growth.

Business Interests

R. L. Burchell has a large general supply store, consisting of dry goods, groceries, clothing, carpets, boots and shoes, crockery, agricultural implements, etc. Handles annually about $70,000 in goods. Established in 1862.

Erie Flouring Mills, C. T. Pierce, proprietor, with four run of stone ; capacity, 85 barrels of flour per day ; corn and feed, 200 bushels. Established in 1874. Attached to the mill is an elevator and corn sheller.

Another important industry of Erie is the creamery owned by R. L. Burchell. This creamery manufactured last season 75,000 pounds of butter, and this season it is expected to make 100,000 pounds. Five teams are employed in gathering in the cream, from a tertitory embracing an area of about ten miles.

J. M. Cunningham has a general line of drugs and stationery. Is also the manufacturer of Cunningham's " Elixir " and the " Good Samaritan " bitters.

Wm. Smith does blacksmithing. Joseph Cocking, M. Kroninberg, boot and shoe makers. D. Schriver has a livery and feed stable. Mathews & Bros, supply the people with a market. The medical profession is represented by O. J. Bowers and H. R. Wells, who are skilled physicians. Legal matters of Erie rest entirely upon the broad shoulders of W. H. Allen. St. Nicholas Hotel, one of the old land marks of Erie, is managed now by W. V. Timmerman and his estimable wife. The traveler always rejoices when he is placed under the care of the landlord and landlady of this hostelry.

Educational

The citizens of Erie have taken special pains in providing a good school for the education of their children. They have a fair school building, with a graded school, embracing nine grades. T. B. Stanley is Principal, Miss Saloiue Fenton, Intermediate( and Miss Lucy A. Passmore, Primary. A full English course is taught. There are oil the rolls 162 pupils.

Methodist Episcopal Church. - The establishment of this religious organization in Erie may date back to the autumn of 1838, when a few of its members gathered together at the house of John Freek, near the sand ridge, and, with Rev. Mr. McMurtry pre- siding, held divine service. Mr. McMurtry belonged to the missionary service, and traveled about, holding meetings and establishing societies. A Methodist class was formed at this time, consisting of John Freek and wife, Alvin Brooks, Mrs. Hunt and James Early and wife. John Freek was Class-leader. Later on, these pioneers were joined by Thomas Freek, John F. Adams, Orem Rook, Adam Hoffman and others. Services were held in the school-house, which were presided over by Rev. Philo Judson. In the latter part of 1841, Rev. Mr. Buck came and took charge of the Church.

After several unsuccessful efforts, a church building was finally erected, and dedicated under the administration of Rev. C. E. Smith. The dedication took place Sept. 10, 1871, Dr. J. H. Balys preaching the sermon. The edifice was a very substantial one, costing about $3,000. Prior to the construction of this building, application was made to the Church Extension Society for aid, but not a dollar was received, and the building was put up and paid for by the Erie people. This society is now in a fair condition, and with a membership of 60. They have in connection a good Sabbath-school. Rev. Dick Hull is presiding.

Christian Church. - This congregation was organized by Rev. J. N. Smith, April 20, 1870. The meeting for this purpose was held at the schoolhouse, and A. A. Mathews was chosen Elder; T. J. Henwood and James Cronk, Deacons ; and L. E. Mathews, Clerk. In the winter of 1877, the congregation bought the building belonging to the United Brethren Church, which society had been disbanded. This building was refitted and dedicated to their use March 20, 1877. This Church is in a healthy condition, with a membership of 55. They have also an interesting Sunday-school. The present pastor is Rev. T. B. Stanley.

Erie Baptist Church. - This society was organized March 26, 1854. Elder W. Rutledge was chosen Moderator at the meeting, and J. VanVleek, Clerk. Ten members were received into the Church at its organization. Rev. L. L. Lansing was their first pastor, who served for five years. Services were held in a school-house until 1870, when a building was erected and dedicated as a place of worship. A committee was selected by the members, consisting of John F. Dickinson, Frederick Rhodes and

James C. Hubbart, to superintend the construction of the edifice; and it was through their efforts and those of Rev. T. J. Mason that the building was finally completed. The Church had several pastors, serving short terms, until 1880, when Rev. D. S. Donegan's services were secured. Mr. Donegan remained four years and then severed his connection with this society, accepting a call at Port Byron, Rock Island County. At present the Church is without a pastor, but it has a large and interesting Sunday-school, which is presided over by John F. Dickinson, one of its most zealous members.

The Press.'

Erie has not buried as many newspaper enterprises as some other towns, there being only one death recorded. The first paper established here was called the Erie Plaindealer, which was in the spring of 1879. The editor, though evidently intending to deal plainly with the people, became satisfied that they would not support his enterprise, and after a brief existence closed his publication.

The Erie Independent came soon after the close of the Plaindealer. G. W. Gurnsey, believing that the people of Erie ought to have a good paper, and that he could satisfy them on this point, came forward, bought up the office of the late Plaindealer, gathered up his news matter, put it in type and issued forth his first sheet. This was done July 9, 1879. It is a fivecolumn quartp, well gotten up and newsy, with a circulation of about 1,000. It is independent in politics. The publisher has also a job office and is prepared to do job work in a satisfactory manner.

They have a good large hall, 60 by 24 feet, and well equipped. The lodge is in good working order and prosperous, with a membership of 45. Arthur McLane is the present W. M. ; David Schriver, Sr. W.; W. J. Gladhill, Jr. W. ; P. H. Wilt, Treasurer; Joseph Cocking, Secretary ; Wm. Smith, Sr. D. ; W. E. Carr, Jr. D. ; S. Toby, Tyler ; Joseph Cunningham, Sr. Steward ; Wm. Guthrie, Jr. Steward. They own their hall, which was built at a cost of $1,500.

M. W. A., Rock River Camp, No. 14, was instituted Aug. 14, 1883, with 15 charter members. They have added to this number 13 new members. They have a hall and meet regularly.

Erie Cemetery

This cemetery is located at the edge of the village on section 6, and contains about ten acres. It is on a beautiful site, well laid out, and adorned with shade trees and evergreens. It was platted by W. S. Wilkinson. It was started first by private parties, but it is now in the control of the village. It has a webwire fence in front, with barbed wire on the other sides. This cemetery has many pretty monuments, the avenues are shaded with trees, and the lots and grounds are well taken care of, which speaks well for the good people of this village.

Source changes here: from History of Whiteside County, Illinois from Its Earliest Settlement to 1908 : Illustrated, with Biographical Sketches of Some Prominent Citizens of the County, by Davis, William W, published 1908; 3,467 words in this source stream.

Erie Township

About twenty miles from Sterling, south on the Burlington towards Rock Island through Sands, Lyndon, Denrock, is the thriving town of Erie. Leaving the station, a short walk brings you to the heart of the place, an irregular plaza, in Spanish, around which the principal business houses are built. Various stores and two opera houses, Burchell's and Breed's, which are in frequent demand for lectures and plays. Along the railroad are three elevators, which deal in coal, grain and live stock. There is a custom mill, in operation for forty years, with a capacity of thirty barrels of flour a day, but which is really now a custom mill, grinding grists as brought by the surrounding patrons. The creamery, Gilbert Wilcox, twelve years in existence, produces in the aggregate 100,000 pounds of butter a year. The receipts of cream are much heavier in summer than in winter. In summer ice cream is made and readily sold. .

The longest industrial establishment in Erie is the poultry house, carried on by the Morrison Produce Company. It measures 150 by 42 feet, with numerous windows. The concern was started 18 or 19 years ago. All kinds of fowls are bought, mostly chickens, five wagons run to scour the country for the bipeds, six to twelve pickers employed, and the shipments to Boston, New York, Philadelphia, are from five to six thousand pounds a day. But understand the fowls are not exported as received from the country. They are artificially fattened. Twice a day buttermilk or other rich liquid food is forced into their craws in order that the flesh may be white and tender for the palates of eastern epicures.

ties to do good. The Christian church was started in 1871 with forty members, the present property bought from the United Brethren, and remodeled in 1902. There are one hundred members, a Sunday school of 94, Ladies' Aid society and Christian Endeavor. The pastor, Rev. G. W, Morton, studied at Millersville, Pa., Moody's Institute, Chicago, and before his residence here, was engaged in evangelistic work. His first year in Erie. A young man with plenty of energy.

As everywhere, the Methodist is the pioneer church, started in 1839 with preaching by Rev. Norris Hobart. In the first class were John Freek, Mrs. Hunt, A. Brooks, Mrs. Early. First services in the log school house. The present membership is 120, with a good Sunday school of 100' pupils. Also a Ladies' Aid, Epworth League and Junior Epworth. The pastor, Rev. John A. Edmondson, has had a varied career. Originally in the Tennessee conference of M. E. C. South, he was chaplain during the war of a state regiment, but resigned when it was proposed to turn it over to the Confederacy, came north to the Colorado conference in 1875, then to the Central Illinois, next to Rock River. This is his second year.

The plain building of 1870 gave way in 1901 to a modern structure with two elevations and tower at the intersection. Of frame, with stained glass and every necessary equipment for comfort and beauty. At the dedication, Rev. Fred D. Stone offered prayer and the sermon was preached by Dr. M. A. Head. E. W. Thompson was pastor at that time.

One of the oldest members is Dr. H. K. Wells, born in Lebanon, N. H., 1824, who took his academic course at McKendree college, and his medical al Rush college, Chicago. The doctor has been a stanch Wesleyan since sixteen. He came to Erie in 1865, and is still in occasional practice.

On a side street stands a dark frame building with cupola and bell, but the worshipers who once sat beneath that roof are dead or scattered. The bell rings no more.

This is the Baptist church, erected in 1870, with a membership of eighty in happier days. Rev. L. L. Lansing was the first pastor, with a dozen successors. Mrs. Maria Hubbard is one of the few remaining of the early members. The Hubbard farm was her first home before her marriage and removal to Erie, where she has lived 36 yeats. In 1853 she went to a log schoolhouse in Erie. Her great-great-grandfather was in the battle of Lexington.

Perhaps the most active intellectual influence in Erie is the Woman's Club. It was organized March 28, 1903. The motto is Progress, and the colors purple and gold. There are 43 members, comprising the leading ladies of the town. Mr?. Burnice Sieben is president, and Mrs. Margaret Burchell, treasurer. A fine fountain of malleable iron in the square is a monument of their zeal. Meetings are held every two weeks, and a neat booklet contains the program for each session. As will be seen the order changes from time to time, keeping their minds in wholesome occupation.

For instance this program for Dec. 3: Music, Quotations from American poets, Early Indian history, the Indian today, Indian music and literature, music. For March 3, Plantation Folk Lore, quotations from southern poets, southern dialect stories. One day is set apart for the annual reception, -and one day to the discussion of local needs. In addition they aim to have regular courses of lectures. In the season of 1907-1908, Hon. Arthur K. Peck, of Boston, gave an illustrated lecture on the U. S. Life Saving Service. He was followed in an entertainment by John B. Ratto. At one meeting Mrs. Maria Hubbard located the site of the first schoolhouse. It was a log building on Main street, on the lot now owned by Carrie Hoffman and her sister, Miss Sophronia Wright.

"What is so rare as a day in June?" inquired Lowell. What is handier than the phone? Erie has fine service in the Crescent Telephone Company. It was organized in Rock Island county 1898, by seven men. On June 14, 1904, the license of incorporation was received, capital stock, $12,500. A steady growth since. Today the company has 233V2 miles of poles, of which 177% are in Rock Island county and 56 miles in Whiteside. They have sold also miles of wire. The stock of 494 shares is located as follows: Watertown, 38; Port Byron, 114; Hillsdale, 157; Erie, 185. The shares .sell at $25 each or share and telephone, $40 each. At the annual election in January, 1908, at Joslin, 111., it was voted to increase the capital, to $25,000, or 1,000 shares, or 500 more than they had to sell.

The company have four switchboards, one at Watertown, Port Byron, Hillsdale, Erie. The officers are W. H. Whiteside, Joslin, president; E. L. Hansen, Hillsdale, treasurer; and A. A. Matthews, Erie, secretary. Mr. Whiteside has been at the head for several years. A struggle till the enterprise was on its feet, but now it is a great success, giving the best of service.

Erie was incorporated in 1872 and the board of trustees for 1908 are: George H. Fadden, president; C. D. Hannon, clerk; and the usual committees on streets, finance, fire, health, judiciary and cemetery. Regular meetings are held first Tuesday evening of the month at seven in the winter, and 7:30 in the summer.

No town, west or east, is complete without a paper. A city sheet cannot give the local news, and even your own county dailies are unable to furnish the little items that people enjoy. A town paper is really a home bulletin. The Erie Independent was established in 1877 by G. W. Guernsy, and in 1885 was purchased by Wm. M. Patrick, of Lyndon, who was publishing the Lyndon Advocate. In 1890 the establishment was bought by the present editor and publisher, C. D. Hannon. He has given his best efforts to the paper, and made it an excellent repository of home intelligence with an advertising patronage creditable to the merchants. Mr. Hannon is an affable and courteous gentleman. The Independent has four pages and .six columns to the page. One dollar per year.

The Cemetery

Along the main street leading north is the cemetery. Here is the tomb of Andrew J. Osborne, a well known reformer in his day, who ventilated his views freely by pen and voice, 1829-1901. On the dark granite is the inscription, "His greatest aim in life was for the liberty of labor." A handsome soldiers' monument, Orcutt Post, 553, with a volunteer on the summit. On each of the four sides, Gettysburg, Stone River, Shiloh, Vickshurg. Names of soldiers engraved below.

A goodly band of veterans are enjoying their well-earned retirement, Robert Thompson, 34th Illinois, enlisted at Prophetstown, mustered out at Goldsboro, N. G. Started as private, returned as captain. H. A. Hatton, enlisted in the 10th Iowa Infantry, saw long and strenuous service at Island No. Ten, Vicksburg, Chattanooga, Mission Ridge, with Sherman in the march to the sea, and then north to the grand review at Washington, 1865, which he says was the proudest day of his life. Of the 107 who left in hi,? company, only 17 came back. L. E. Matthews, 75th Illinois, was hit in knee at Perryville, and wounded also at Dallas in 1864.

Hiram Deyo, enlisted twice, first in Mechanics Fusileers, then in 92nd Illinois, Col. Atkins. He fought at Chickamauga and Lookout Mountain, marched with Sherman to the sea, and was mustered out in North Carolina. Arthur Welding, first in 15th Missouri Independent Rangers, 1831, next in 8th Kansas Infantry, 1882, followed the flag under Rosecranz, Sherman and Grant, and was mustered out at Chattanooga in 1864. York Eddy, 75th Illinois, was in that terrible fight at Perryville. He is thankful to Uncle Sam for $20 a month pension. Joseph M. Stephenson, born in England, enlisted in De Witt, Iowa, in 26th Iowa Infantry, spent his term chiefly about Helena, Chickasaw Bayou, Arkansas Post, hospital at St. Louis, to his discharge in 1863.

Thanks to the genius of Edison, a mild moonlight is enjoyed in all our smaller towns every winter night. An electric plant furnishes incandescent lights in Erie streets. The town is charged $1.25 for every light, or $66 per month for the whole number. It was established in 1899. There is an engine of eighty horsepower. The price, three lights for $1.25 per month, seems reasonable, for household use, sixteen candle power. E. L. Muesse, formerly of Wisconsin, is engineer. The service is generously employed in stores, shops, hotels and the newer residences.

The bridge over Rock river wa.s built in 1892 by the Chicago Bridge and Iron Works at a cost of $21,500. Three spans. A solid piece of work.

Early Settlers

Erie comes naturally by its name, as two of the first settlers came from Erie county, New York. Lewis D. Crandall settled here in 1835, and established a ferry over Rock river, the first below Dixon. Lafayette, also, came from the same county in New York, and opened a farm in 1837. Samuel Carr, Vermont, kept hotel in a log cabin, 1843, when a stage line was in operation. John Freek, England, came in 1835, and took an active interest in Sunday schools and preaching services, so often neglected in the primitive -districts. In 1840 a postoffice was kept at Crandall's Ferry by Lewis D. Crandall, and moved to Erie in 1849.

In the autumn of 1835, Peter Gile, wife and two children, with L. D. Crandall, started from Dixon with goods on two canoes lashed together. Night came on, and the frail craft was overturned in the raging current.

The younger child was drowned, and Mrs. Gile soon died from the effects of the exposure. 0. Brooks built the first house in Erie, and the first teacher was Polly Ann Sprague, afterwards Mrs. Reuben Hard. The first marriage, that of Oliver Olmstead and Electa Hunt, and the first child born was Harriet Coburn, her father, Charles, having come in 1839 from New York. An agreeable hour was spent with John D. Fenton, who as a child came with his father, Joseph, to the country in 1835. He was born in 1832, and has lived in Erie since 1863. All of his early associates are dead and gone. He likes to tell of the family trip to the west by Erie canal, the lakes and ox cart from Milwaukee. Mr. Fenton is one of the most sprightly men of his age to be met in a day's travel. Rises early, does his own chores, regular in eating, sleeping and all his habits, and what is rare, a systematic reader of the dailies and magazines, taking a variety of the best publications. He talks well, no slang or slip-shod words. The thought and language of a gentleman.

Two Characters

William Allen, esq., who has been in Erie since 1856, may be called the Dean of the Whiteside bar. A judicial mind and a phenomenal memory. A Solomon in judgment, and a Macaulay in recalling names and dates. His spacious farm house and barn on a tract of 300 acres, on the edge of town, is conspicuous, and assure Mr. Allen a comfortable old age.

But D. B. Henwood is in age the G. 0. M. of Erie. A pioneer of pioneers. His mother kept tavern in Harrisburg, Pa., in 1812 ; he was born in Philadelphia in 1824, moved to Ohio in four-horse wagon in 1825, to Indiana in 1837, to Erie in 1850. He had a farm and ferry, and ran the boat across the river till the bridge was built. A genuine Charon that the Latin poets speak of. Still vigorous at 84.

The First National Bank has a paid-up capital of $40,000. Robert L. Btirchell is president, Ora A. Wilson, vice-president and Robert C. Burchell, oashier. Eight directors: Charles McLane, Ora A. Wilson, Frank J. Vagt,

All the fraternal orders flourish. The Masons doubtless the oldest, Erie Lodge, No. 687, instituted in 1870. Then there are the Mystic Workers, Odd Fellows, Woodmen, Knights of Pythias, with their lady society adjuncts.

At the last meeting of the board of trustees, a bill of $543 was allowed for gravel on the streets, the best material for giving a solid foundation for traffic.

A substantial city hall of brick, built two years ago. On first floor an assembly room, in rear, fire engine and jail, above council chamber and other offices.

Erie had no railway connection until the Rockford, Rock Island and St. Louis R. R. was opened in 1869, and since then the place has enjoyed a healthy improvement. One advantage. It has no competing towns in business, Rock Island and Geneseo on the south being too far away to attract trade.

The two most imposing residences in Erie are those of R. C. Burchell, merchant, and Dr. Larue, physician. They are both of the southern style, Thomas Jefferson at Monticello, or Jackson at Hermitage, with their tall columns under the high portico in front.

Like Chicago, the town recalls a memorable fire, July 3, 1897, which destroyed a whole block, stores, printing office, heart of the place, but the new buildings are better. Erie is progressive.

A young men's club was lately organized at the Christian church on the plan of the Y. M. C. A. with 25 members, with the general aim of personal and public improvement in the better life. , -.

A highly respected citizen died in Jan., 1908, M. H. Seger, whose father came from Maine and settled in Erie in 1854. Mr. Seger was born in 1838. A useful man. In his seventy years, he had served Erie in every position, justice, assessor, collector, director, supervisor.

The School

Erie people have always taken much pride in their educational affairs, and the school was never more efficient than today. Gradual additions are made to the library, laboratory and necessary apparatus. A half hour twice a week is given to music in each room. A catalogue is published in which the general course of study is outlined. There are twelve grades, comprising the primary, intermediate, grammar and high school divisions. Grading is on the scale of one hundred. A pupil falling below 75 must make up the study in the next term. There is a truant officer. Four years in the high school with the following course. For the Freshman, English, Algebra, Physiology, Botany and Latin. Sophomore has English, Algebra, and History, Geography and Physiography, Latin. Junior has Eng- lish, Geometry, General History, Latin. Senior has Zoology and English History, Solid Geometry and Political Economy, Physics, Arithmetic. For graduation in the complete high school course, 32 credits are required. Six teachers in the building. Miss Abbie May Hughes, of La Salle, in the primary ; Miss Jennie Lewis, of Morrison, intermediate ; Miss Elizabeth Fenton, of Erie, grammar; Miss Annie Adams, of Erie, instructor in music; Miss Alvara Proctor, Spenser, Mass., assistant in high school. She is a graduate of Smith College, Northampton, Mass., and a thorough scholar.

The principal, Miss Jessie E. Jewett, Woodstock, Illinois, is a young lady of admirable qualifications. After graduating at Woodstock high school and Downer College, Milwaukee, receiving the B. A. degree, she spent several months in travel abroad, visiting the British Isles, France, Germany, Holland, Switzerland, Italy. A young woman of fine presence and enthusiasm that cannot fail to awaken the dullest pupil. The writer heard a recitation in .English on the topic of Burns and his poetry, and it was happily illustrated with pictures of Ayr, Dumfries and the scenes he rendered immortal.

Mrs. Wonser At Ninety-Four

It was the privilege of the writer to spend an hour with the most venerable woman in Erie, Mrs. Ruth Wonser. She was born in Oneida county, N. Y., March, 1813, and is therefore in her 95th year. She came to Erie in 1848. Her husband had a store and farm. Mr. Wonser died in 1893. Her maiden name was Churchill. Of ten children, five are living. She makes her home with her single daughter, Ruth, who is devoted in her attendance upon her aged parent. The old lady shows traces of her early refinement in her casual phrases. Alluding to her daughter's care, "She is entitled to the highest seat in the kingdom of heaven," and in allusion to her family, "Most of them are gone over the great divide, and I stay at my advanced age. My eyes are dim, ears dull, but heart as young as ever."

But for an unfortunate fall 28 years ago, breaking her thigh and rendering crutches necessary and an indoor life, Mrs. Wonser would be somewhat active. She sits in her chair, and reads coarse print in book or paper. In 1902 she received a large book with blank leaves, in which she began to make entries about the weather and various events, and this is the introduction to

Her Diary At Eighty-Nine

"This beautiful book, sent by my dear friends and children, I accept and appreciate with heartfelt thankfulness. What a world of memories rise up in mind of friends tried and true, of loving kindness bestowed in hours of severe trial and heart-stricken grief, and of cheerful counsel in. happier days. Long may they live, and may health, peace and plenty be their store I

"According to the family record, I have been on this earth, and a resident of the United States for 89 years. A long time. Instead of ignorance,

I should be very learned. Instead of poverty, I should possess a competence. But in all my life. I have tried to use time judiciously. I have tried to do the best I could. What have I accomplished? Is the world better for my having been a resident of it so long? Have I aided anyone to live a better life? Have I wiped away the tear of the mourner? I cannot solve the problem. I am weary, and would gladly go hence."

This is a wonderful record. The writing is large and legible. Could Wesley at 85 do better? The writer pressed the wrinkled hand with sadness as he felt it would be the last on the shores of time.

This sketch was written in December, 1907. On March 13, 1908, she celebrated her 95th birthday, and sat down to the dinner table with a few relatives and friends, and seemed to be as bright as usual. But soon afterwards she began to fail, and died early in April. The funeral was held at her home, conducted by Rev. Mr. Edmonson. Mrs. Wonser was a member of the Methodist church. The interment was in the cemetery at Erie.

Her husband, M. Wonser, died many years ago. Several children are living. C. D. Wonser, the youngest, came from his home at Kansas City, Mo. The other son, M. G. AVonser of Tama, la., was also present. He was here on his mother's last birthday and had returned to his home, but came back before she died. Mrs. Wonser lived with her daughter, Ruth Wonser.