Kewanee Township (part 1 of 2)

Kewanee Township

The traveler in 1853, had he passed from Dixon to Wethersfield, would have found where now stands Kewanee, a modest and well-tilled farm, the property of M. B. and J. P. Potter, on the west, and a broad, undulating prairie on the east, the division line being then a township road, and now known as Main Street. The unpretentious farm-house, now the residence of Harry Thompson, ma}' still be seen by the curious, standing directly north of the building known as " Phillips Block." The first settlers of the land comprised in the township were John Kilvington, Robert Coultis and Cornelius Bryan, who came in the Fall of 1836. In first entries. They were followed by Goodrich and Blish, whose entries bear date May 7, 1836, and in July by Henry Kemerling. This same year twenty-one sections - 13,440 acres - were taken up by the Connecticut Association, and before 1850 almost every acre was entered.

The advent of the C. B. & Q. R. R. in 1853 (then called the Military Tract R. R.) decided the location of the village. Strenuous efforts were made by the citizens of Wethersfield, one mile south, to secure the passage of the railroad through their town. Owing to heavy grades and the crossing of a stream, involving a large extra expense, this was not acceded to by the company, and grading was commenced on the proposed route. Enterprising citizens of that day saw the result, and quickly took advantage of the location to secure a town on the railroad.

Nothing particularly noteworthy took place until the railroad depot was fixed on the northwest quarter of section 33. The company had at first decided to place it on the northeast quarter of section 82, but a defective title compelled a re - location. Matthew B. and J. P. Potter and Col. Blish owned the site. The former, after selling five acres of their quarter section to Geo. A. Morse and Silas Willard, traded the balance to D wight Need ham for his beautiful farm a little farther south. Mr. Needham at once sold to Capt. Sullivan Howard, Ralph A. Tenney - - better known as " Ralph''- - and Henry G. Little ; and these gentlemen sold a quarter interest to Nelson Lay. Willard and Morse's tract lay oh either side of the railroad, on Main street, and here they built a store and warehouse in 1853. This was known as the "Pioneer" store, and did a lucrative business for nearly twelve months without opposition. The building stood on the lot now occupied by the residence of Mr. Joseph O'Brien, and was, in 1863, destroyed by fire.

On May 1, 1854, the town was laid out by the following named gentlemen : Sullivan Howard, Nelson Lay, H. G.. Little, R. A. Tenney, Geo. A. Morse, and Sylvester Blish, all of whom, excepting Col. Blish, are still living. At that time all was life and activity. Wethersfield, which was then quite a thriving village, suffered in a very short time a loss of nearly all of her business houses, which were one by one put on wheels and moved to Kewanee.

The survey was made by C. C. Blish, now President of the First National Bank. The streets were at .right angles. The lots contained from one-quarter of an acre to four acres of land, according as they were move or less central. The streets were generally four rods wide, though Main street is one hundred feet in width. The first house erected on the town site was the Kewanee Hotel. It was kept for some time by Tenney & Hutchina. In February, 1856, the present proprietor, Mr. E. V. Uronson, whose portrait appears elsewhere, purchased the property of R. A. Tenney, and for twenty-two years has successfully supplied the ^astronomical needs of the public.

It was probably the intention of the founders of the town, that Main street should be the street, and in fact it was for some time. " Phillips Block," the first store in the town proper was built thereon by Nelson Lay ; J. D. Schriver erected the old " Philadelphia Store" there ; Davenport & Robinson their grocery (now Miles & Minnick's); Dr. Pinney had his drug store where now stands the Freewill Baptist Church, and on the corner next south was the dry-goods establishment of Aaron Cooper. A few buildings only were built on Tremont street, which was in wet weather very little short of a canal as far as navigation was concerned. Yet the hotel and the depot slowly and surely drew the trade center westward. C. N. Cutter erected, very early, the building now occupied by Bennison Bros., and which for many years was known as " Cutter's Hall," and considered quite palatial in those days. Residences sprang up rapidly in all parts of the town, grain warehouses were built, and in eighteen months the town boasted of a population of 1,500, including Wethersfield.

Some of the early merchants were Fitch & Skinner, whose drug store occupied the site of the present T. H. Phillips' brick block ; Joseph Montgomery, whose stock consisted of boots, shoes and clothing, and whose store occupied the site of that now used by James Barker; Mr. James S. Howard who erected the house now known as the McConnell House, and therein kept the first furniture store of Kewanee; and a hardware store which was built by Fred. Wild, the building now doing service as the shop of Mr. McConnell. All these were erected during the Summer and Autumn of 1854, or s:,on after. Contemporary with them was the residence of Mr. Dwight Needham, which is now the property of Mrs. Martha Pratt. It was the first building of that character erected on the town plat. This same Autumn a warehouse was constructed by the Pratt Brothers. Two years after, in 1857, it was set on fire by one William Whitef'ord, and totally destroyed. He received a term of nine years in the penitentiary for his nefuriousness. An elevator was also built by the railroad company which is still used. When the town was laid out, the proprietors gave it the name of Berien, in compliment of Col. Berien, chief engineer of the railroad. He rather objected to this, however, and being asked to name the town, suggested " Kewanee," an Indian name, supposed to signify Prairie hen. This cognomen was readily accepted by the proprietors, and on Feb. 14, 1855, was legalized by a special act of the Legislature. The post-office was established in 1854, and given the name of Kewanee. Col. Blish was appointed as incumbent of the office, who occupied a portion of the store of Otis & Pinney for the discharge of his duties. It will be remembered this building occupied the site of the Freewill Baptist Church. In the Fall of 1855, Col. Blish died, and Mr. R. A. Tenney, who, among other enterprising acts, erected the first brick residence in town, now occupied by Dr. G. W. Fellows, succeeded him. Deficient adinimstiations caused many changes to occur in this office. It

The business interests of town have grown remarkably well. It is almost twenty-three years since the Phillips Block was erected, and now there are a large number of stores of all kinds ; shops of every description, and artisans of all trades, whose different articles of commerce find ready sale in the- town and surrounding country, and in some cases to other localities.

The First National Bank was organized October 28, 1870, with a capital of $75,000. The surplus is now $18,000, and the average daily deposits are over $100,000. The officers are : Chas. C. Blish, President ; S. W. Warner, Vice-President ; and C. S. Wentworth, Cashier. Messrs. D. L. and W. F. Wiley, President and Cashier of the First National Bank, at Galva, on January 1st, 1876, established the People's Bank. It is a private affair, well managed, and abundantly supplied with capital. Mr. H. L. Kellogg is Cashier.

The, success of any town depends largely on the manufacturing interests therein and the ability to keep employed its citizens, thereby causing money to freely circulate within its own borders. Kewauee is very well supplied in this respect, having within her limits the O'Brien Manufactory, the Haxton Steam Heater Company, the Kewanee Manufacturing Establishment, and that of H. H. Perkins. The first mentioned of these was established in 1858, in Princeville, Peoria County, for the manufacture of carriages and wagons. They remained here until 1865, when they removed to Kewanee and continued their manufacturing. January 1, 1874, a stock company, with a capital of $75,000, was formed, and the facilities greatly increased. The O'Brien brothers are largely interested here, and hold the offices of president, secretary and treasurer. Mr. Jas. O'Brien is the first named officer, W. F. O'Brien the second, and Joseph T. the third. They employ about fifty men, and make, on an average, per day, two wagons, two carriages, and 100 harrows. These latter find ready sale throughout the entire Northwest.

The second manufactory mentioned was organized in April, 1875, with a capital stock of $50,000. They make steam heaters, castings, and all classes of steam material. Their sales will aggregate $60,000 annually. About forty men are employed. W. E. Haxton is President, E. R. Kerr Secretary, and J. H. Pierce Treasurer.

The Kewauee Manufacturing Company was organized January 12, 1876, with a capital of $iO,000. They are in good condition, capable of doing excellent work, and at reasonable prices. They employ constantly twenty-five hands, with a probable increase. Their specialties are: " Kewanee " windmills, "Orr's" sulky plow, and the "Centennial" harrow. In addition to these they do a large amount of extra job work. The officers are : C. C. Wilson, President, and Josiali Keeler, Secretary. Their implements find large sales through the West, and through some portions of Pennsylvania.

Mr. H. H. Perkins is at present making a new-formed riding cultivator. It has the quality of being capable of raising and lowering the shovels, of giving them a greater depth, and of a different slant, aho of placing them nearly to, or far from the row of corn - all without stopping the team or leaving the seat.

Mr. H. H. Bryan, who opened the first wagon shop in Kewanee, is still in business. He commenced his trade in Wethersfield, in 1850, and when Kewanee was incorporated he removed his shop to its present location, where he has since carried on a successful business, employing now from ten to fifteen men, and enjoying a trade aggregating -$15,000 annually.

Aside from these manufactories mentioned, the town supports a goodly number of shops of various kinds, whose products find a ready market in the immediate vicinity.

There are thirteen churches and five public school buildings, including the high school. In 1874 the citizens of the town erected the building known as Library Hall. The upper story is used for a public hall, in which concerts, readings and lectures are given. The lower story is occupied by the office of ihe Lathrop Coal and Mining Company (a notice of which is given in the geological description of the county), by the First National Bank, the office of the Express Company, and the office and rooms of the Library Association. This latter lias a library of 1,300 volumes. It was opened to the public in the Spring of 1875. It is managed by a board of six directors, and is open to the public every evening, and on the afternoon of each Sunday.

The Coal Interests

At Kewanee much capital is employed in the coal trade. The Lathrop Coal and Mining Company, whose principal banks are one and a half miles east of town, employ over 200 men, and ship annually large quantities of this mineral. The coal, which is of a superior quality, is reached at a depth of some 100 feet, and, by an ingenious contrivance, is easily loaded on the cars when brought to the surface.

This company was organized in 1869, and they now represent a capital of nearly $400,000. The president of the company is Hon. Sidney Bartlett, of Boston, Mass. In addition to the shafts operated by this company, there are many others owned by private parties.

Coal is found in paying quantities at almost any point between Galva and Kewanee, and is mined by many persons on their own property. The Geological Report of Henry County, made in 1873, by direction of the State Geologist, by Mr. James Shaw, contains many items of interest, and is well worth a careful perusal.

The Churches

In Kewanee there are thirteen regularly organized churches. The oldest of these is the Congregational, whose organization. was effected August 7, 1855, in a school house, now a grocery store. During the Winter previous, meetings were held in the Kewanee House and at a few private residences. The organizing council was presided over by Flavel Bascom, D.D. Forty-four persons united, many of whom had been members of the same religious body at Wethersfield. Their names were : Clarissa Bassett, Jane Botterill. Hosea Bulkley, Robert Cook, Martha R. Cook, Martha A. Cook, Mary A. Cook, Isabella Fell, Thomas D. Fitch, Harriet W. Fitch, J. Francis Goodrich, Sarah H. Goodrich, Elizabeth A. Hawks, Sullivan Howard, Elizabeth B. Howard, Horace M. Howard,

A. Talcott, Mary L. Talcott, Charlotte M. Talcott. Lucina Sykes. Of these persons, Sullivan Howard, Elizabeth Howard, Hiram T. Lay, Olive Lincoln, Niincy E Lincoln (now Mrs. Dr. Day), Ruth C. Pinney, Joseph A., Mary L. and Charlotte M. Talcott (now Mrs. T. P. Pierce), and Lucina Sykes are still members here. The rest have removed or gone to their reward.

The church edifice was completed and dedicated March 11, 1858, having been built the year previous. It was very much enlarged and beautified in the year 1871. The Rev. Charles H. Pierce was preaching to the congregation at the time of organization, and remained until January, 1858. He was succeeded, as the next pastor, by Mr. Charles C. Salter, who was ordained and installed April 20, 1859, and was regularly dismissed March 11, 1861. Rev. James M. Van Wagner was called to the pastorate of the church in February, 1864, installed June 6. He remained until April 6, 1868. Rev. James Tompkins was called June 1, 1872, installed September 10, and is still filling the pulpit as pastor. During the intervals between any of these pastorates the pulpit was filled by supplies. The congregation is now in a good condition. The membership is 239. The Sunday-school (Mr. 6. H. Loomis, Superintendent,) has an attendance of 341.

The Free Will Baptist Church was organized April 29, 1865, in the Protestant Methodist Church, with eleven members. The organization council consisted of Rev. S. Bartlett, Rev. H. J. Browne, and Rev. R. G. Broadfoot. The following is a list of the original membership : Rev. William Bonar, Mrs. Mary Ann Bonar, A. B. Palmer, Mrs. Mary Ann Palmer, D. W. Payne, Henry Malone, Mary Malone, S. W. Warner, A.

B. Gurney, Caroline E. Gurney, and C. H. Gurney - eleven persons. Prior to the organization, services were held in the Swedish Methodist Church, in the southwest part of town, and next in the Protestant Methodist - now Free Methodist Church. They worshiped in this latter place until November, 1865, when they removed to Cutter's Hall, where they remained until January, 1866, when they again removed, this time to the Christian Church. This building is now a dwelling. Here they met for religious exercises until January 16, 1870, when they worshiped a few months again in Cutter's Hall. About May, 1869, they commenced the erection of their present church building. It was completed June 1, 1870, when they immediately occupied it. It is a very comfortable structure, and cost, including the lot, $6,800.

The pastors of this congregation have been the following named persons : Rev. William Bonar, from August 12, 1865, to March 7, 1867; Rev. O. D. Patch, from April 1, 1867, to March 1, 1874; Rev. J. J. Weage, from May 1, 1874, to May 1, 1875. At that time the present pastor, Rev. H. J. Browne, was called to the pastorate. The number of members is one hundred and two ; the Sunday-school has an attendance of about

The Free Methodist Church \vas organized in a private residence in Wethersfield about the year I860 or 1867. Meetings had been held for sometime previous in the residences of different persons, and in the Swedish Methodist house of worship. Also in a store-room in Wethersfield. About the year 1870, they purchased their present church edifice of the Protestant Methodists, and have since occupied it. At the organization, some five or six persons were admitted as members. They have, at different times, enjoyed good seasons of revival, and now number some twenty-four or five members. The first minister was Rev. Jonathan Dick; next, Rev. William Cooley, t\vhose wife occasionally officiated at divine service. He was followed by J. G. Terrell, during whose ministry the church was purchased, at a cost of $1,000. Next, Rev. George Coffee, followed by Rev. W. W. Kelley ; he by Rev. John Whiting; he by Rev. James Thaxter, when the present pastor. Rev. James Kelso, took charge. The Sunday-school, under the superintendence of Mrs. Robinson, numbers about twenty pupils.

The Presbyterian Church was organized in the Baptist Church by the Rock Island Presbytery, March 26, 1872. A preliminary meeting had been held to invite the Presbytery to this action in the house of S. M. Hard, on February 21st previous.

At the organization the following persons were received as members: Daniel and Mrs. Eunice Baldwin, William E. and Mrs. Sarah A. Haxton, R. A. and Mrs. L. Little, Jacob W. and Mrs. Hannah Jones, S. M. and Mrs. Emily Kurd, N. H. and Mrs. Lura Blakely, Effie Blakely, Mrs. C. H. Graves, George H. Lincoln, George Kliner. Mrs. J. Powers, Mrs. P. Wright, Mrs. John Whiffen, Clark Bradish, William W. Winter, and Mrs. Virginia L. Winter, and Shanahan.

During the Summer the church was erected. Including the lot it cost $5,000. The Rev. N. D. Graves was pastor of the church about three years. Rev. Josiah Milligan, of Princeton, preached for them for some time, when the present pastor, Rev. J. D. Howey, was called. He has occupied the pulpit over one year. There sire now eighty-six members, and a Sunday-school of one hundred scholars.

The Baptist Church. On the 9th of May, 1853, it was decided by a vote of the members of the Baptist Church, at Wethersfield, to remove their place of holding services to Kewanee, a more desirable location. There were at that time over one hundred members. They worshiped for some time in different halls, and in some of the other churches. On December 21, 186.~>, a building committee was appointed, and steps taken towards the erection of a suitable church-ed'fice. This was completed and occupied July 7, 1867, and cost, including the site, over $8,000. There are now about two hundred and thirty-five members, and a Sundayschool of one hundred and fifteen scholars. The pastor is Rev. P. P. Shirley.

The following is a list of the pastors of this church and their terms of service: At the removal Rev. S. P. Ives was pastor; Rev. H. B. Foskett, from December, 1857, to August, 1802 ; Rev. J. La Grange, from October, 1862, to September, 1863 ; Rev. A. D. Freeman, from March, 1864, to July same year ; Rev. William Storrs, from November, 1864, to

History Of Htcnrt Cottntt

May, 1865; Rev. A. Jones, from December 1, 1865, to March, 1867; Rev. K. W. Uenton, from July, 1867, to July, 1872; Rev. Carlos Swift, from November, 1872, to June, 1874 ; Rev. R. L. Colwell, from September, 1874. to February, 1876, when the present pastor, Rev. P. P. Shirley, was called. The church is now in a flourishing condition, and enjoying evident signs of prosperity. »

The Methodist Episcopal Church at first met for some time in a school-house, about one mile east of Kewanee, in a hall over the store of J. D. Schriver, and in private houses. Some of the members had been connected with the same religious body in Wethersfield, but desirous of building up a church in Kewanee, came here -to worship. They organized a class of thirty persons December 15, 1855, in the school-house referred to ; being then under the pastoral care of Rev. J. O. Gilbert. The principal members were: A. Thornton, William King, J. Shipley, Erastus Johnson, W. S. Oliver, William Bowen, W. C. Kent, and John Schriver.

The corner stone of their church was laid October 23, 1856. The day was made " one of gladness " by the members. In the stone the following articles were deposited : A bible, hymn book, and description of the church ; a paper on which the following was written : " John Morley, Presiding Elder of Kewanee District, Peoria Conference, Illinois; Joseph O. Gilbert, pastor of Kewanee ; Arthur Thornton, William C. Kent, Erastus Johnson, Joshua Shipley, William S. Oliver, William Bowen and William King, Trustees. The first Methodist Church built in Kewanee, October 23, 1856. Number of inhabitants in town, 1,500." There were also placed in this stone two copies of the Kewanee Advertiser^ one number of the Fourth of July preceding, which gave an account of a great celebration of that day ; one number of the Henry County Dial ; one number of the N. W. C. Advocate ; a copy of the Missionary Advocate ; a map of Kewanee, given by R. A. Tenney ; one fifty cent piece iu silver; one ten cent piece; one three cent piece, and one five cent piece.

This building has become old and inadequate to the growing demands of the congregation, and during the coming Summer a new one will be constructed which will cost $10,000. The parsonage was purchased in 1856. June following the organization of the church a Sunday-school was organized. There were sixty pupils in attendance.

The pastors of this church have been Rev. J. O. Gilbert, from organization until 1858; Rev. John Chandler, one year; Rev. E. Ransom, one year; Rev. J. S. Cummings, two years; Rev. W. P. Graves, one year. During his ministry the congregation became self-supporting. Rev. U. J. Giddings was next, remaining two years ; Rev. W. J. Beck, two years ; Rev. Ben j. Applebee, two years ; Rev. John P. Brooks, one year ; Rev. M. P. Armstrong, one year ; Rev. G. W. Arnold, two years ; Rev. B. C. Dennis, two years; and Rev. G. W. Arnold, again two years, when the preserit pastor, Rev. M. Spurlock, was assigned to the pulpit, and is now .serving his first year. There are now three hundred and twenty members, and a Sunday-school of two hundred and fifty scholars. Dining the month of January, 1877, over eighty persons united with this church.

The Protestant Episcopal - St. John's - Church. On Sunday, May 13, 1855, a Protestant Episcopal Sunday-school was organized in the Kewaiiee House. This was the first religious organization in Kewanee, and the school met the following Sunday for the first time at Odd Fellows Hall. There were twenty scholars, and R. P. Parrish was Superintendent. The first full Episcopal service, with sermon, was in the Summer following, by Rev. Porter, of Jubilee College. In October, Bishop Whitehouse made a visitation, and held two services in the unfinished Methodist Protestant Church. During the Summer and Autumn of 1856, Rev. Philander Chase officiated occasionally in the same church. On the 13th of July, 1856, the church was organized, with the name of St. John's. The officers were R. P. Parrish, Senior Warden ; George A. Morse, Junior Warden ; James B. Morse, J. H. Howe, H. L. Sloan, Geo. W. Foote, and E. V. Brouson, Vestrymen ; and L. D. Bishop, Clerk. The first rector was Rev. George E. Peters, who commenced his labors in 1857, and remained two years. A church edifice of the early English Gothic style of architecture was constructed in the Summer of 1857, finished in the Fall, and consecrated by Bishop Whitehou.se, November 15, of the same year. It is quite a neat church, and cost about $5,000. The first church-bell of the town was rung from the belfry of St. John's.

The Primitive Methodist. The persons adhering to this faith met for some time, prior to their organization into a church, in Cutter's Hall and in the Methodist Episcopal Church. The organization was made in the Spring of 1865, and two years later, in the Autumn of 1867, the first board of trustees was chosen. The principal members then were Joseph Garland, John Bennison, John Bradbury, John Bamford, Moses Jones, William Bennison, and J. Breckon. The church edifice was erected in 1873, at a cost of $2,000. The pastors of this church and their terms of service are as follows r Rev. J. Hewitt, May, 1865 to May, 1867; Rev. Chas. Dawson, 1867 to 1871 ; Rev. Thos. Butterwick, 1871 to 1873 ; Rev. William Jacks, Jr., 1873 to 1876, when the present pastor, Rev. Chas. Dawson, again assumed charge. TThere are now eight}- members and a Sunday-school of eighty-seven scholars.

The United Evangelical - St. Paul's - German Church. About ten years since, some of the German people living in this vicinity and professing belief in the doctrines of this religious body, organized a church. For a short time they met in a school-house, but at once commenced the erection of their present edifice. Nineteen persons united at the organization - the pastor being Rev. Hilmer, who remained about one year. Their church cost some $2,500. They also own a very comfortable parsonage. Rev. Hilmer was succeeded by Rev. Rein, who remained five years, when the present pastor, Rev. G. W. Reiger, was installed. The majority of the members - now about fifty - live in the country. The Sunday-school numbers some fort}' scholars. About one year ago another church was organized in the country, three miles northeast of Kewanee. It is for the accommodation of those living in that locality, has about thirty-five members, fifty Sunday-school scholars, and is under the pastorate of Rev. Reiger, who preaches there each alternate Sunday.

The Church of the Latter Day Saints. The first meetings of this church were held at Am boy in 1859. An organization was effected here of probably one hundred members. From this place they were sent out to preach, and in 1862 effected the establishment of the church here. In 1868, they erected their present church edifice, locating it nearly one mile north of town. Regular services are maintained here, the membership being one hundred and eighteen, with an average attendance of sixty at the Sunday-school. They are in no way connected with the Mormon doctrine, and do not believe in or practice its teachings. The presiding elder of this branch is Thomas Charles.

The Swedish Lutheran Church. Before their organization in 1869, the members composing this church met in private residences and in the Methodist Episcopal Church. The organization was made in September of that year, with about sixteen persons. In the Autumn of the following year they erected their present church-edifice, at a cost of nearly $o,000. There are now fifty-five members. The Sunday-school contains about twenty-five scholars. The first minister to this church was Rev. Lendholm, who remained but a short time. He was followed by Rev. N. Nenrgren, who was pastor two years. The Rev. John Wingstrom, of Princeton, is the present pastor, having succeeded Rev. Neurgren.

The Swedish Methodist Church was organized at an early day in the history of Kewanee. It is now, however, quite small, and does not sustain regular preaching.

The Catholic - St. Mary's - Church was organized at the hou&e of Matthew Joyce, then occupying the site of the present church-building, in the early part of 1854. About thirty-five heads of families were admitted to membership at this time. Some of the more prominent ones were Lawrence Hunt, Patrick Cavanaugh, Matthew Joyce, James Hunt (now deceased), James Gallagher, Thomas Caton, and Edward Hunt (now deceased). The following year a church, eighteen by twenty-four feet in dimensions, was erected. It has since been remodeled and enlarged. The pastors of this church have been as follows : Fathers Lynch, O'Gara, Powers, Dulhunty, Duggan. Hannigan, Kilkernny, J. M. Ryan, and the present priest, Rev. John Ryan. The membership is now nearly eight hundred, but the reader will bear in mind that all members of a family in this church are counted as members of the church from their earliest infancy.

The Schools

The first school in Kewanee was taught in a small frame building, built by George A. Morse, and donated by him for educational purposes. It stood north of the railroad tracks, on Main Street. School was held here for a year or two, when this structure was removed farther into town, and placed on the lot now occupied by the east school-house, and afterwards removed to that now occupied by Parker & Merritt's store. The growth of the town demanding more room, the trustees rented a building of Mr. Austin Sykes, and a room in the upper story of Mr. Schriver's store. These were occupied till about 1858, when the building known as the East School-house was erected. This was occupied during the Winter of 1858. It contained two commodious rooms, and was ample for the demands at that time. The pioneer school-room was sold, and for some time was used as the office of the Henry County Dial ; afterwards removed, and occupied as a Christian Church, and is now a dwelling. In the year 1865, the East School-house having become entirely inadequate, steps were taken for the enlargement of this building and the erection of two others. During the vacation of 1866, the east building was enlarged to double its former capacity, and the two brick structures, known as the North .and West Schools, were determined upon. They were erected in 1SG7, and occupied January 1, 1868. Each contains two rooms. The schools were thoroughly re-graded in 1866 by the superintendent, S. M. Etter, now State Superintendent of Public Instruction. Mr. Etter was principal here about three years, and laid the foundations of the grading of the schools now so successfully carried out by Mr. W. H. Russell, present superintendent.

The brick buildings were erected by William C. Loonu's, and cost the city about $6,000. In addition to these, the High School building, erected in 1856, and a one-room building, are occupied. This latter is called the Northville School.

There are now six hundred and eighty pupils enrolled. The average daily attendance for January, 1877, was six hundred and twenty-one. They require the services of fourteen teachers, including the superintendent. Their names and positions are as follows :

The Board of Education consists of the following named gentlemen : S. T. Miles, President; Adolph Maul, Secretary; V. H. Day, W. W. Stevens, M. H. Hinsdale, Jas. C. Blish.

The annual aggregate expense of the schools amounts to $10,000, which is abundantly repaid in the elevated tone of' society, and the good morals attendant upon such an outlay of money. The appended sketch of the High School is from the pen of one of the pupils now connected therewith :

" The High School was established in 1856. It grew out of a desire for a higher grade of education than the village schools afforded at that day. After some exertion on behalf of each of the villages of Kewanee and Wethersfield, in the endeavor to secure its location in their midst. the matter was settled by locating the building on the dividing line between them. Mr. James Elliott donated two and a half acres for that purpose, and on this site the present building was erected. Only the upper story was completed ready for school purposes, the lower being used for lectures, lyceums, and a public hall. Among the prominent persons who lectured here were John B. Gough and Horace Greeley. School was opened under the principalship of Rev. Mr. Waldo, who was assisted by Miss Atwood. At that time the school was furnished with rude pine desks and benches, reaching half across the room, making but three aisles. The oldest pupils occupied the rear row. Among the young ladies were : Lain a Pratt, now Mis. Norllnop; Lillie Bums, now Mis. Rajnimicl ; Nellie Little, now Mrs. Geoige Perkins; Libbie Cutter, Helen and Lucy

" Tliere being no sidewalks in earlier years, it was almost impossible in the winter to get to the school-house, and a large wagon was the general conveyance for the scholars.

" At the close of the second year Mr. Waldo resigned. His successor was Mr. Blodgett, who was assisted by Miss Stocking. During his administration an exhibition was held, and from the fund raised the school-room was properly furnished.

" Mr. Blodgett was succeeded by Mr. McPheran, who was succeeded by Mr. Bradford. Greek and Latin were among tlie higher studies of the school at this time, and pupils were fitted for college. Mr. James K. Blisli. a lawyer of the town, went from this school to Ann Arbor. Mr. E. B. Wight, the Washington correspondent for a Chicago paper, went from the academy to Chicago University.

" Mr. Bradford was succeeded by Mr. Tabor, who first graded the school, and arranged a course of study which he had printed. He was followed by Mr. Beckington, and he by Mr. Etter, present State Superintendent of Public Instruction. Mr. Etter was succeeded by Mr. Russell, the present superintendent. During Mr. Etter's administration eightythree dollars had been raised 'at a school entertainment, with which to purchase books for a library. This fund was increased during Mr. Russell's time in a similar manner. With this fund a library has been purchased. In September, 1870, the town of Kewance purchased the interest of Wethersfield in the academy, and has since had entire control. Mr. Russell served a year or two as principal of the schools at Moliue. During this interval Mr. Gray and a Mr. Carver acted as principals. Upon the latter's resignation Mr. Russell was again called, and is now superintendent of the Kewanee schools. Mr. E. S. Martin, in 1875, was appointed principal of the Higli School, which position he still retains. He is assisted by Miss Lillian D. Riley."

The Press

The first paper issued in Kewanee was the Henry County Dial. The citizens saw the necessity of a paper in their midst, and through the influence of some of the more prominent ones, among whom were R. A. Tenney, H. G. Little, Nelson La}', Geo. A. Morse and others, a subscription was raised, and the above mentioned paper purchased.

It was brought to the town Friday, August 15, 1855, its advent being signaled by the firing of guns and the cheers of the populace. Mr. J. H. Howe had been secured as editor for one year.

The buildings occupied for some time were the Phillips Block and the old school-house, the latter now a residence. It was continued until September 13, when Mr. C. Bassett, present editor of the Kewanee, Independent, who had come* hither at the solicitation of some of his friends, purchased the entire stock and fixtures. He was a practical printer, and assumed the business control, Mr. Howe remaining editor for the balance of the year. It was conducted in this way until June 12, 1856, when Mr. Bassett sold the office to Mr Howe and Mr. H. M. Patrick. These gentlemen conducted the paper until November 13, when Mr. Howe sold his interest to his partner, who associated Mr. O. White with himself as editor, arid under this management the paper was printed till January 8 following, when Mr. White retired. Mr. Patrick carried on the paper about one year, when he sold the office to L. D. Bishop, who published the paper two or three years. J. E. Wheeler, one of the original founders of the Chicago Tribune, had charge of the Dial from 1858 or 1859 till December 8, 1866 - the longest term of any one editor. He was a most estimable man, and one highly respected by the citizens of Kewanee. He was considered one of the ablest editors connected with the Dial, and died at his post. He purchased it, and leased the office to Mr. O. White, who again became editor. He also published a paper at Toulon, Stark County. He was succeeded in the editorial chair by Hiram Wyatt, who associated with himself Mr. Shurtleff during the campaign of 1868. Mr. Shurtleff was succeeded in a few months by Geo. W. Wilson, who purchased the office, thereby becoming editor and proprietor. He almost immediately sold to N. W. Fuller, who changed the name to the Kewanee Radical. He continued until May or June, 1870, when he failed, and the paper was discontinued. On July 1 following, the entire office and outfits were purchased by Mr. C. Bassett, who again entered the sanctum. He started a weekly paper, calling it the Kewanee Advertiser. After six months he changed the latter name to Independent, and as such still issues an excellent county paper. He is the oldest editor in Kewanee, and has been a printer forty-four years.

On January 1, 1856, Tenney, Hardy & Co. issued a monthly, called Tenney, Hardy $- Co.'s Advertiser, - published it one year and sold it to Mr. C. Bassett, who issued it as a monthly until December 18, 1863. The first copy of this paper is in possession of Mr. R. A. 'Tenney, now a resident of Chicago.

July 4, previous to his discontinuing the Advertiser, Mr. Bassett commenced the publication of a weekly paper, called the Union Democrat. This he continued to publish until November 24, 1864, when he discontinued it. April 26, 1866, he issued the first number of his weekly, called the Kewanee Advertiser, which he published until November 23, 1867.

The Public School Messenger, a small, sprightly paper, was commenced in January, 1870, under the immediate control of the Superintendent of Schools, Mr. ,W. H. Russell, as editor. This was issued about two years, being published by Mr. Fuller one year, and C. Bassett the remainder of the time.

The Kewanee Courier was established March 22, 1876, by Mr. C. N. Whitney, who brought the material for the office from Princeton, Bureau County, where he had published the Herald for nearly five years preceding. Although established less than a year, the Courier has grown into a wide circulation, and is filled with advertising patronage. The Courier office is the only steam printing establishment in the county, and is well equipped with machinery and material. It is an eight-column quarto, and takes a leading position in local journalism ii> this part of the State.

A BBOTT CM AS. Kewanee; engineer; Dem; born Conn. 1835; $500; three children. -** ABBOTT WALTER M. Kewanee; steam-fitter; Dem; born Conn. 1854. ABEL WM. J. Kewanee; painter; Prot; born Ohio.

ALVIS DAVID H. Kewanee; physician; Rep; Meth; born in Ky. 1844; three children. AKER JOHN, Kewanee; carpenter; Rep; born in N.Y. State; $500; four children. ANDERSON ANDREW, Kewanee; teamster; Rep; Luth; born in Sweden ; five children. ANDERSON ANDREW P. Kewanee; coal miner; Rep; Luth; Sweden; $600; two children. ANDERSON CHRISTIAN, Kewanee; laborer; Luth; born in Sweden; one child. ANDERSON GUSTAF, Kewanee; billiard hall; Rep; Ind; born in Sweden. ANDERSON JNO. J. Kewanee; engineer; Dem; born Pa; $800; one child. ANDREWS EDWARD, Sec. 29; P.O. Kewanee; coal miner; Rep; Ind; born in England. ANDREWS GEORGE, Sec. 4; P.O. Kewanee; laborer for Elijah Storey; Dem; born in Ohio. ANTHONY ANONY, Kewanee; laborer; Rep; Cong; born in S.C. ARCHER ISAAC, Sec. 20; P.O. Kewanee; miner; Rep; Prim. Meth; born England. ASHLEY ALBERT B. Capt. Kewanee; Supt. Lathrop Coal Mining Co; Rep; born Mass. ATKINSON JOHN, Sec. 20; P.O. Kewanee; farmer; Ind; Ind; England; $4,000.

DAARTZ AUGUST, P.O. Kewanee; farmer; Dem; Luth; born in Germany; 80 ac. $2,400 BACKSTROM JOHN E. Kewanee; clerk; Rep; Luth; born Sweden 1848; one child.

BARKER JAMES, Kewanee, .Wall Paper Dealer and Hanger; born in Weston, Yorkshire, England, Jan. 18, 1826; came to this Co. in 1863; Ind; Bapt; married Sarah Ward, at Acklan, England, Jan. 26, 1846; she was born in liirdsall, England; has one child, Alice, born in Scarboro, England, March 2, 1857.

BASSETT CHAUNCEY, Publisher and Editor Kewanee Independent; born in Smithfield, Pa. Oct. 25, 1814; came to this Co. Aug. 1855; Dem; Epis; value of real estate and personal property $3,500; married Ann E. Smith, in Columbus, Ohio, Nov. 10, 1840; she was bom in Columbus, Nov. 6; has six children living, lost one girl; Mi. Baasett was Postmaster at Kewanee from 1857 to June, 1861.

BENNISON THOMAS, Grocer, Kewanee; born in Cheshire, Eng. April 28, 1837; came to county, 1864; Rep; Prim. Methodist; val. of prop. $12,000. Mr. Bennison came to Pa. June 17, 1845; lived there six years; came from there to Shullsburgh, Lafayette Co. Wis. 1851, and from there to Henry Co. 1864. Mrs. Bennison was Ann Walton, born in Shullsburgh, Wis. 1844, and was married to Mr. Bennison Oct. 7, 1861. Mr. and Mrs. Bennison have four children, three girls and one boy, Mary Anna, Emelina E., Lewis Julian, and Nettie O. Mr. Bennison's father, Samuel B., was born in Lancashire, England, 1797; came to America June 17, 1845. Mr. B.'s mother was Mary Turner, born in Lancashire, Eng. in 1798; both are living.

BERGLUND PETER, Kewanee; Gardener, born in Sweden, Dec. 25, 1830; came to this Co. in 1856; Rep, Meth; owns house and one acre lot, valued at $1,000; married Anna Jones, Nov. 26, 1857; they have had four children; the living are : John, born Sept. 8, 1860; Mathilda J. born Nov. 15, 1865. The deceased are : Mathilda, and Daniel Albert.

BERLIN SVEN N. Carpenter, Kewanee; born in Sweden, July 2, 1845; came to this Co. in 1865; Rep; Meth. Epis. Mr. Berlin is a thorough carpenter and builder; has been engaged in the business for several years in Henry and Stark Counties.

BLACKBURN NANCY A. Mrs. Farming, P.O. Kewanfe; born Ky. March, 1824; came to this Co. 1848; owns 540 acres, value $40,000. Mrs. Blackburn is widow of the late John Blackburn, so well and favorably known in connection with the enterprise and prosperity of Henry Co. Mr. B. was born in Yorkshire, Eng. 1825. and ca i e to this county 28 years ago, and has always been identified among the prominent citizens, having held the office of Supervisor for two terms. He died July 14, 1873, leaving a wife and seven children, viz : Mary, now Mrs. Alden; Ralph, Sarah A., now Mrs. Hardenbergh; John C., Eliza J., now Mrs. Burke; George, and Clark. Mrs. B.'s maiden name was Nancy A. Stewart, married July, 1848.

BLISH CHARLES C. President First National Bank, Kewanee, and Farmer, Sec. 4; Welhersfield Tp; P.O. Kewanee; born in Glastenbury, Conn. May 26, 1820; came to this Co. Aug. 1837; Dem; Ind; owns 700 acres of land, valued at $45,000; married Elizabeth P. Bonar, in Goshen, Stark Co. 111. Dec. 23, 1840; she was born in Bethlehem, Ohio, Dec. 14, 1820; has two children living, James K. born May 2, 1843; Matthew B. born Dec. 5, 1848; has lost two boys and two girls. Mr. Blish was County Surveyor 8 years; has been School Director several years. BLISH JAMES K. Kewanee; lawyer; Dem; Ind; born in Wethersfield, 1843; one child.

BOWER CHARLES, Kewanee; Farmer; born in Germany, Oct. 4, 1840; came to this county in 1862; Dem; Luth; owns 360 acres of land, valued at $30,000; store and lot and other village property; married Mrs. Katharine Bower, Nov. 3, 1865. Mrs. Bower has one child living by former marriage, August, born Aug. 26, 1862. By present marriage there are five living children, John, born Aug. 28. 1866; Carrie A., born May 3, 1868; Willie P., born Oct. 15, 1870; Charles J. born Feb. 6, 1873; Katey E. born Oct. 19, 1876. They have lost one child, Daniel Nicholas. Mrs. Bower lost one girl, Louisa Mary (daughter of August F. Bower), died Jan. 16, 1865. Mrs. B's. first husband was August F. Bower, who died Oct. 12, 1864.

BRONSON ETHEL V. son of Virtue and Nancy (McNeil) Bronson; was born in Canandaigua, Ontario Co. N.Y. F b. I, 1813, being the youngest of seven children, who have all passed away with the exception of one sister. When five years old, his parents moved to Richmond, near Allen's Hill, N.Y. In 1820, they moved on a farm in Sheldon, GeneseeCo. N.Y., where his father died. When he died the family was left poor, and the children were compelled to work for a living. Mr. B. has worked many a day for 10 cents and a shilling per day. Walked, when a boy, two miles to school in the Winter, working during the Summer to earn sufficient to clothe himself. When 15 years of age, worked in a store for his clothes and board, afterwards getting five dollars per month. A small advance in his wages was made at different limes; he always managed to save some thing every year, and engaged in business for himself as dry goods merchant, first in Warsaw, N.Y. then in North Java, Wyoming Co. N. Y.; in 1846 he returned to Warsaw, and carried on mercantile business until the Spring of 1848, when he moved to Cuylerville, N.Y. where he engaged in the manufacture of stoves and farming implements and also did a general hardware business; sold out in 1854, and came to Rockford, 111. in the Fall of the same year; spent the Winter there, and in March, 1855, came to Kewanee, and purchased the Kewanee House, which he still owns and conducts; he is a strong temperance man; has kept hotel about 20 years, and never sold liquor; he owns two farms adjacent to the village, which, with village and other property, is valued at about $40,000. For nine years he was Town Road Commissioner; has always taken an active p rt in politics; was a strong Jackson man, and voted for Hayes and Wheeler in 1876; he xvas sent by the people to Springfield in the year 1869, to procure a charter for the Muscatine, Kewanee and Eastern Railway; his efforts were successful; he was an active worker in perfecting the organization, and was chosen President; also took an active part in procuring the charter and organizing the Continental Railway, which has for its object a continuous railway route from New York to Council Bluffs; a large amount of money has been expended in grading and procuring the right of way. Mr. B. was one of the first to assist in the organization of the Episcopal Church in Kewanee, contributing $1,500 and always donating liberally to the other church societies to aid in the construction of houses of worship, etc.; he has always been a Low Churchman; he is a member of the Boaid of Governors of the Woman's Hospital of the State of Illinois, also member of the Kewanee Blue Lodge and Chapter; he was married to Sarah A. Weller, Oct. 29, 1844; she was born in the town of York, Livingston Co. N. Y., April 9, 1817; they have had two children, Wilford G., born in War.-aw, N. Y., Aug. ii, 1845; he died May 15, 1861. and William Henry, born in Cuylerville, N. Y., Dec. 25, 1851; he died Jan. 5, 1852; they have an adopted daughter living, Lida P., who was born Oct. 6, 1858.

BURTON" NANCY Mrs. Kewanee; born in St. Louis, Dec. 25, 1843; came to this Co. in 1867; Bapt; married Wiley Burton, April 16, 1868; they have one child, Nellie M., born Nov. 10, 1872. Mrs.'B. has one child, Nathaniel (by former marriage), born Dec. 25, 1865. Mr. Burton was in Co. A, 6oth Iowa Infantry; served two years and two months.

CAHOW GrEORG-E W. Express Agent, Kewanee; born Norton. Ohio, Aug. 24, 1830; came to state, Jan. I, 1855; came to Co. 1857; Dem; Ind; married Mary Smith, of Akron, Ohio, Aug. 4, 1854; they havean adopted daughter, Annie M., born May I, 1861. Mr. C.is member of Village Board Trustees; he also has charge of Library Hall.

CAVANAGH MICHAEL, Farmer, Kewanee; born in County of Tipperary, Ireland, in 1852; came to this country same year; came to this Co. in 1864; Dem; unmarried.

CHARLTON EDWARD, Prop'r Coal Mine, Sec. 21; Kewanee P.O.; born in county of Durham, England, Aug. 7, 1824; came to this country in 1865; Liberal in politics; Latter Day Saints; owns 34 J^ acres of land, valued at $3,000; married Margaret Robson Dec. 7, 1859; she was born in England Dec. 24, 1819; they have had one child, George William, born Oct. 5, 1860, who died in infancy.

CLAPP JAMES R. Kewanee; Engineer Lathrop Coal Mining Co; born in New Braintree, Worcester Co. Mass. Aug. 20, 1822; came to this county in 1865; Rep; Cong; married Mary L. Gates, May 6, 1845; she was born in Rutland, Mass. June 22. 1826; they have four children : Aola L., born Nov. 16, 1850, (now Mrs. Fred. E. Grubb); Charles R., born June

CLARK WM. Kewanee; painter; Dem; born New Orleans; five children. CLARK WALLACE N. Kewanee: carpenter; Dem; born Vt. 1849; one child. CLAYBAUGH EDGAR D; P.O. Kewanee; agent; Rep; Bapt; born 111; one child. COLBY EMILY B. Mrs., widow James S.; Kewanee; Prot; born N. H. 1816; $r,ooo. COLBY ORON J. with Kewanee Mfg. Co; born in Petersburg, 111. Aug. 21, 1852; came to this county in 1865; Rep; Ind; value of property $2,500; married Ortilda J. Payne Mar.

COLL1XS WILLIAM, Farmer City P.O. 111.; Fanner, Money Leaner and Dealer in Real Estate; born in Warren Co. Ohio April 24, 1824; came to Canton, Fulton Co. 111. in 1841; lived there thirteen years; went to Stark Co. in 1854, where he lived nineteen years; removed to Sandwich, 111. in 1873, remained there one year, then came to Kewanee in 1874; moved to Farmer City, DeWitt Co. 111. Feb. 21, 1876, where he now resides; married Elizabeth Himminover in Canton, 111. Sept. 4, 1851. She was born in Andover, Sussex Co. N. J. March, 1832; has six children living : William E., Charles H., Frank D., Henry A., Mary L. and George V.

CORKILL ROBERT, Blacksmith for Lathrop Coal and Mining Company, Kewanee; born in Manghold Parish, Isle of Man, Europe, June I, 1844; came to this county in 1866; Lib; Epis; owns house and lot, valued at $1,500; married Jane Kennish Nov. 1855; she was born in same place as her husband, May 14, 1842; they have six children living : Esther, born Nov. 15, 1866; Annie, May 4, 1869; Elizabeth, May 4, 1871; Robert, Nov. 15, 1873; Eddie, Sept. 5, 1875; and Maggie, Aug. 5, 1876; they lost one infant in England - Emily - died in 1855.

CRAWFORD CHARLES T. Livery Stable and Draying; Kewanee; born in Thomaston Me., Dec. 3, 1833; came to this county in I86S; Rep; Bapt; married Sarah Storms Dec. 18, 1855; she was born in Cambridge, Indiana, Dec. 12, 1834; one child, Florence M., born Nov. 21, 1856; she married John J. Anderson, of this place, Nov. 17, 1875.

CRONAU J. Farmer; Sec. 15; Kewaiee P.O.; born in Germany Feb. 4, 1830; came to this county in 1855; Rep; German Congregationalist; owns 190 acres of land, valued at $7,500; married Elizabeth Wagner Sept. 29, 1856; she was born in Germany in 1834; have four children : Henry, Elizabeth, Caroline and Emma.

CROSS WILLIAM T. Sculptor, Monument Designer and Builder, Kewanee; born in Solon, N.Y. July 12,1836; came to this county in 1864; Rep; Cong; value of property about $6,000; married Mrs. Melissa A. Persons, daughter of Thompson I'eet, of Princeville, 111. July 4, 1864; she was born in Ohio; has two children living: Mary L. born Jan. 27, 1867; Charles W., Feb. 4, 1870; lost one infant child; Mr. Cross is Sec'y Kewanee Public Library, and Sec'y Kewanee Lodge, 159, and Kewanee Chapter No. 47, Masonic bodies; served two years under Admiral Farragut, in U. S. Navy, during the Rebellion.

DANIELSON CHARLES, Kewanee; Coal Dealer and Lessee of Coal Mine; born in Sweden Jan. 13, 1829; came to this county in 1869; Rep; Luth; owns house and lot; married Christine L.Anderson Feb. 26, 1854; they have three children: Euphemia R., born Sept. 15, 1858; Carl J., Feb. 3, 1863; and Anna A., July 13, 1867. They have lost five children.

DAVIS JOHN D. Fanner and Proprietor Coal Bank, Sec. 16 and 17; P.O. Kewanee; born in Wales, Feb. 13, 1834; came to this Co. in 1869; Rep; Ind; owns 80 acres of land, value $3,000; married Mary Ann Thomas, Sept. 14, 1855; she was born in Wales, June 9, 1836; one child, Jennie Ann, b'orn Feb. 27, 1867. Mrs. Davis is a member of the Congregational Church.

DAY WTLLIAM H. Physician and Surgeon, Kewanee; born in Northampton, Mass. Dec. 12, 1822; came to this Co. in 1866; Rep; Cong; married Mary Ann Anthony, Sept. 20, 1850; she died Oct. 31, 1863; second wife was Mrs. Nancy E. Lincoln, married in Kewanee, Feb. 12, 1866; she was born July 12, 1826; Harvey D., her son, is still living; had two children by first marriage, one son deceased; the living children are: Mary E. (now Mrs. Frank Elliott), born June 28, 1856; Martha E., born March 28, 1863. Dr. Day is member of Ihe Board of Education and Director and member of Finance Committe of First National Bank.

DOTY M. & CO. Ivewanee; Dealers in Hardware, Stoves, Seeds, Plows and Farming Implements. Milo Doty was horn in Sharon, Conn; Rep; Cong; one child, Fannie, now Mrs. Allen Vanwa^ner.

DUSTIN GEORGE W. Kewanee; Traveling Agent; born in Barlow, Washington Co. Ohio, Jan. 19, 1831; came to this Co. April I, 1855; ^ePi Ind; owns property, valued at $6,000; married Maria D. Jackson, July 23, 1859; sne vvas born near Mt.- Vernon, Ohio, Oct. 14, 1837; she came to Henry Co. in 1840; they have six children living : John F., born March 13, 1860; George L., born Sept. 23, 1862; Albert M., born Nov. 14, 1864; Charles M., born April 10, 1868; Mitchell J., born Oct. 24. 1869; Forrest T., born Dec. 26, 1871; they have lost two childrerj, Flora and Rena May. Mr. D. has been Constable and Deputy Sheriff in Henry Co.

EWINGr ANDREW M. Kewanee; auctioneer; born in Columbus, Ohio, Oct. 19, 1832; came to this State twenty-five years ago; Rep; Ind; owns 10 acres of land in village of Kewanee, and 160 acres in Greene Co. Iowa; married Phebe A. Briggs, Feb. 5, 1858; she was born in Ohio in 1840. They have three children living, Wm. R. H. born in 1858; Cynthia May, born in 1862; and Frank E. born in 1864. Lost one daughter, Lillie, she died Aug. 28, 1874.

HENRY L. Kewanee; retired; Rep; Cong; born in Corydon, Ind. 1836. FAIRBANKS LORENZO D. furniture; Rep; Baptist; born Ind. 1836; three children.

FASH MICHAEL, Wagon and Carriage Mnfr. Repairing and General Jobbing; Kewanee; born in New York city, Aug. 17, 1805; came to Peoria, 111. 1834, and to this county, 1850; Ind; Spiritualist; value of Real Estate $12,000; married Catharine M. Brewer, of Tarrytown, N.Y. Sept. 22, 1824; has five children living, Susan Ann (now Mrs. John Seymour); William A., Sarah M. (widow of Wm. Bruns); Thomas B. and Josephine E. Lost three children.

FLEMING JACOB, Kewanee; Weighmaster Lathorp Coal and Mining Company; horn in England, July 9, 1843; came to this country in 1853; came to this county in 1857; Rep; Ind; married Elizabeth A. Fasell, Feb. 14, 1870; she was born in this State, Sept. 18, 1850. They have three children living, Annie L. July 17, 1873; Minnie E. March 9, 1874; and Stella M. Dec. 10, 1875. One child deceased, Mary E. born March 15, 1871; died Sept. 26, 1872.

Editor And Proprietor Of Kewanee Independent

FRASER RICHARD, Kewanee; Manager Lathrop Coal and Mining Company; born in England, October 17, 1837; came to this country in 1857; came to this county in 1872; Rep; Ind; married Isabell Wandless, Dec. II, 1858; she was born in England July 7, 1843. They have five children living, Mary J. born Nov. 20, 1859; Addie, born Nov. 10, 1865; Alice, born Oct. 7, 1867; Richard W. born Jan. 19, 1873; and Charles T. born July 9, 1875. They have lost three children, Richard, Isabell, and an infant child. Mr. F. was in Co. K. 45th T. V. I. served 3J^ years.

/"* ALLAGHER HUGH A. Kewanee; laborer; born Ireland; three children. *-* GALLAHER MICHAEL, Sec. 29, P.O. Kewanee; coal miner; Dem; Cath; Ireland. GALLOWAY HANNAH Mrs. Kewanee; Pres; born in Ireland; $800; three children. GALLOWAY JOHN, works for Jos. Dynes, Sec. 6, P.O. Kewanee; Rep; one child. GALLOWAY WM. Kewanee; baggage master; Rep; born in Ireland.

GAMBLE JOS. R. Kewanee; carpenter; Rep; Bapt; born Philadelphia; $1,400; 8 children. GARLAND BENJ. Kewanee; coal miner; Rep; Prim. Meth; born Pa.; one child. GARLAND JOS. Kewanee; retired, Rep; Prim. Meth; born England, 1812; $3,000; one son. GARLAND PATRICK, Kewanee; laborer; Dem; Cath; born Ireland; $200; five children. GARLAND ROBT. Sec. 28, P.O. Kewanee; coal miner; Rep; Mormon; born Eng. GAKLAND SAML. Sec. 29, P.O. Kewanee; coal miner and farmer; Mormon; born Eng. GARLAND THOS. Sec. 36, P.O. Kewanee; farmer; Dem; Cath; born Ireland, 1823; 160 ac. GASTRIN HANS, Sec. 26, P.O. Kewanee; miner; Rep; Luth; born in Sweden; 4 children. GATES EDWARD, Sec. 19, P.O. Kewanee; farmer; Rep; born in Peoria Co. Ill; $2,500. GATES NATHANIEL, Sec. 19, P.O. Kewanee; farmer; Rep; Meth; born in N.V. GEER WM. II. Kewanee; painter; Rep; born in N.Y. State; three children. GEORGE OLIVER, Sec. 3, P.O. Kewanee; lab; Rep; two children. GEORGE PHILLIP, Sec. 29, P.O. Kewanee; lab; Dem; Ind; born in Ohio. GIERHART ALFRED, Kewanee, prop, livery stable; Rep. GOLDEN JAS. Sec. 28, P.O. Kewanee; coal miner; Kep; born Eng. - GOLDEN WM. Sec. 20, P.O. Kewanee; coal miner; Dem; Prim. Meth; born Eng. GLEASON PHILIP, Kewanee; engineer; Dem; born in E"hg; one child.

GLEASON LUCIUS P. Jobber and Wholesale dealer in Tobacco, Kewanee; born at Chicopee Falls, Mass. Nov. 21, 1838; came 16 this county in 1858; Rep; Meth. Epis; is Church Steward; value of real estate and personal property, $14,000; married Ella L. Johnson in Kewanee, Oct. 26. 1861; she was born in Harmar, Washington Co. Ohio, Feb. 22, 1843; came to this state in 1850, and is a member of the Meth. Epis. Church; has four children living: Frederick, born Aug. II, 1865; Annie, born Feb. 2 1, 1867; Birdie, born June 8, 1869; William, born Nov. 21, 1870. Mr. Gleason taught school for several years when he first came to the state; was a local preacher for a number of years; engaged in general merchandising for about seven years; has been in the Jobbing business two years and a half.

GOODILL JONATHAN and JOHN, Farmers, Sec. 12, P.O. Nepcmset; born in Yorkshire Co. Eng.; came to this county in 1853; Ind; Epis; own 200 acres of land, valued at $6,500; their mother, Ann, wid. of Wm. Goodill, lives with them; she is 77 years of age; William Goodill died in England 17 years ago at the age of 62 or 63 years.

GRIM HENRY, Barber, Hair Dresser, Manufacturer Hair Switches and Cuils, and Hair Restorative, Kewanee; born in Onvigsburgh, Pa. June 30. 1825; came to this Co. in 1858; Ind; Meth.

GRONBERG NELS J. Kewanee; Wagon Maker; born in Sweden, July 26, 1843; came to this Co. in 1869; Rep; Luth; owns house and lot, valued at $1,500; married Hannah Johnson, July 18, 1869, in Galva, III; she was born in Sweden, Oct. 31, 1836. Mr. G. came to this country in May, 1869; he lias been a voter about two years.

GUNTHER FRED. Brick and Tile Manufacturer, Sec. 27, P.O. Kewanee; born in Ger. many, June 13, 1832; came to this Co. in 1855; Ind; United Evang; value of real estate, $10,000; married Frederika Brandt; she was born in Germany, Dec. 25, 1833; they have three children : Mary, born Jan. 6, 1857; Frank, born Jan, 19, 1859, and Willie, born Jan. 5, 1867.

HALLIN ANDREW, Kewanee; tailor; born in Sweden, 1850; one child. HALLIN BERNARD, Kewanee; tailor; Rep; Luth; born Sweden, 1829, $2,000. HALLIN JNO. G. Kewanee; lab; Rep; born Wethersfield, 1854.

HAMILTON WM. Kewanee; justice of the peace and ins. agt; Rep; Meth. Epis; $4,000. HANDIBODE JNO. Kewanee; retired; Dem; Cath; Ireland; six children. HANDLEY DANL. Kewanee; coal miner; Ind; born Eng. 1831; $1,000; four children.

HARPER AD ALINE Mrs. Kewanee, born in Peru, Huron Co. Ohio, Sept. 6, 1825; citne to this Co. in 1863; Con-; owns village property, valued at $2,500; married Isaac Harper, April 7, 1853; he died June 18, 1874; they had two children : Alice, born Jan. 24, 1854, and Charles R., born April 19, 1864. Mr. Harper had two children by former marriage, Mary (now Mrs. Joseph Nash), born Nov. 23, 1846; and Linda, born April 27, 1850.

HINSDALE MYRON H. Druggist, Kewanee; born in- Hinesburg, Vt. March 5, 1825; came to this county Oct. 2, 1862; Rep; Ind; value of real estate and personal property 810,000; married E. Lucy Fabrique, in Corydon, Ind. Nov. 19, 1849; she was born in .Mauckport, Indiana, Sept. 1827; has four children living Fred D. born June 9, 1856; Frank L. born Sept. 20, 1859; Cora L. born Oct. 4, 1862; Norman M. born Feb. 22, 1865; Mr. Hinsdale was member of village Board of Trustees several years; is now member of Board of Education.

HOFFMAN JOSEPH, Kewanee; Painter; born in Prussia, April 14, 1823; came to this country in 1855; came to this county in 1864; Rep; Cath; married Anna M. Cappellen, Oct. 2, 1853; Mr. Hoffman is a fine painter; house, sign, and decorative work done, and perfect satisfaction guaranteed.

HOWARD SULLIVAN, Retired Farmer. Kewanee; born in Temple, Hillsborough Co. N. H. June 30, 1806; came to this county Nov. 14, 1836; Rep; Cong; owns 220 acres in Burns Tp; married Elizabeth Bailey Little, in Hollis, N.H. June 9, 1831; moved to Mason Village, N.H. same day; Mrs. Howard was born in Salem, N.H. Jan. :6, 1807; has had nine children, six living; their names are, James Sullivan, born in Mason, N.H. April 21, 1832, now living in Oregon; Horace M. born in Wethersfield, III. Dec. 16, 1837, now resides in Chicago; Henry, born in Kewanee, March 16, 1840, present residence Red Oak, Iowa; Mary Elizabeth (now Mrs. J. C. Gridley), born in Wethersfield, May 25, 1842; Hattie L. (now Mrs. Zachariah Squires), born in Kewanee, March 28, 1844; Mattie C. (now Mrs. C. W. Wells), born in Kewanee, April 4, 1847; Nannie A. was born in Kewanee, Sept. li, 1849; married

Almeron Reed; she died May 22, 1874; Capt. Howard was first Justice of the Peace in Wethersfield Tp; before coming to Illinois Capt. Howard built a goodly share of Mason Village, N.H ; was Military Captain there; there were but about twenty inhabitants in Henry County when he settled here; for a great many years he was the principal carpenter in the county; built the first court house at Cambridge, in 1844. when there were but three cabins in the village; the court house is the same now used by the county; was associated with Ralph A.Tenney in the publication of the first newspaper published in Kewanee, about the year 1855; the Capt. bought the farm where Kewanee is now located, and, associating two other gentlemen with him, laid out the town originally; built and owned the Kewanee House in 1854, before the railroad was built; for several years was engaged in general merchandising, lumber, and grain business; retired from that business in 1861, and devoted his attention to farming, stock buying, and feeding, being the owner of large tracts of land in this vicinity; in consequence of ill health he was compelled to retire from active labor in 1873; he is now a Director of the First National Bank of Kewanee; has been identified with the bank in that capacity since its first organization.

*HO\VE Gen. JOHX H. (deceased) whose picture appears on another page of this volume, was born at Riga, Monroe Co. N.Y., on the I2th day of Sept. 1822. In 1832, his father removed to Conneautville, Pa. and proceeded to clear a farm in that densely timbered region. After assisting his father to make the clearing he obtained work on the Erie Canal to procure money to attend school at Western Reserve College, at Austenberg, Ohio, at which place he remained some time, finishing at Kingsville, Ohio. He then commenced the study of the law with E. B. Woodbury, Esq. at Monroe, Ohio, and was admitted to the bar in June, 1845, Benj. F. Wade and Joshua R. Giddings being his examiners. March 27, 1845, a short time previous to his admission to the bar, he was married to Miss Julia A. Castle. For ten years Gen. Howe followed his profession in the counties of Ashtabula, Lake and Geauga, living for a short time at Unionville, Lake Co. In 1855, he resolved to come west, his first objective point being Kansas, but owing to the then unsettled condition of affairs, he finally concluded to stop at Kewanee, 111. The change was opportune. He continued the practice of the law, with marked success, until 1860, when he was elected Circuit Judfje for the sixth district of Illinois, to fill the unexpired term of Judge Drury. In 1862, his judicial term having expired, Judge Howe enlisted in the War of the Rebellion, and aided in raising two companies for the I24th 111. Vol. and upon the organization of the regiment he was elected Lieutenant Colonel. He remained with the regiment during the war, acting for nearly the whole period as Colonel, owing to the sickness and absence of Col. Sloan. He was twice promoted during service, bearing at the time of his discharge the rank of Brigadier General. His regiment saw much active service, having marched over 4,100 miles, and having been engaged in fourteen skirmishes, ten battles and two sieges, and having been under the fire of the enemy eighty-two days and sixty nights. Throughout all of this leaden hail the life of the brave General was spared, but the close of the war found him, from exposure and anxiety, broken in health, and believing that a change of climate might prove beneficial, he obtained an appointment as Chief Justice of Wyoming Ter. April 3, 1869. Shortly after his arrival, female suffrage was established in Wyoming, and Judge Howe presided over the first jury, of which females were a component part, ever impaneled in this country or any other so far as known.

After three years service upon the bench, during which time he discharged his duties with signal ability, his health again failed him, and he returned to his home in Kewanee and resumed the practice of law. H is health not improving, his physician and friends advised him to go south, and he succeeded in obtaining an appointment as one of the Mexican Border Commissioners, then about to start south to confer with a like commission from the Mexican Government concerning the Bbrder difficulties. He left Kewanee, accompanied by his wife, and after six weeks' work with the commission, fell seriously ill at Laredo, Texas, and lingering twenty-three days, died April 3, 1 373. His remains were embalmed and his heroic wife started and brought them across the country three hundred miles to San Antonio, that being the nearest railroad station. Mrs. Howe arrived at Kewanee, April 19, 1873, and the remains were interred with Masonic honors the day following.

Such, briefly, are the outlines of the life of one of Kewanee's most worthy and honored citizens, a man who filled a large place in the hearts of the people of Henry Co. and whose influence will long be felt in the community of which he was a member.

Coming to Kewanee while the town was in its infancy, he at once entered zealously into all of its public improvements. He aided and encouraged the establishment of schools, churches, lyceums and libraries, and all that might contribute to the moral, intellectual or material welfare of the community received from Judge Howe encouragement and support.

He was the friend of the poor, and always bought their welfare, as many now living will testify. As a lawyer and judge he stood deservedly high, always advising a peaceable adjustment of difficulties, rather than litigation, where it could be done without a sacrifice of rights. As an advocate he was the acknowledged leader of this bar, often rising to bursts of genuine eloquence. In disposition he was genial and social, outspoken and frank to all, be they friend or foe. While only 50 years of age at his death, he had accomplished much more than many older men. Generous, almost to a fault, he did not accumulate as much property as a man of more sordid disposition would have done with the same opportunities. The vast throng who attended his funeral was an ovation, attesting the high estimation in which he was held by the people of Henry and adjoining counties. A true friend, a kind husband and father, an upright judge and citizen, an able lawyer, a faithful and heroic soldier, such was Judge Howe, whose memory will ever be green in the hearts of all who knew him.

HUNT L,AURENCE, Farmer, Sec. 9; P.O. Kewanee; born in Ireland, Nov. 9, 1823; came to this county in 1850; Dem; Oath; owns 230 acres of land, valued at $9,000; married Bridget Shortal, Feb. 20, 1849; sne was born in Ireland in 1816; four children: Edward, born Sept. 29, 1852; Mary Ann, born May 29, 1854; Henry M. born Jan. 26, 1856, and Joseph M. born March 28, 1860; Mr. Hunt is School Director; has acted in that capacity thirteen years.

HIPPERT JOHN, Kewanee; shoemaker; Dem; Cath; born in Germany; ten children. HURD AMANDA, Kewanee; music teacher; Cong; born in Peru, Vt. Oct. 31, 1831. HURD STEPHEN M. Kewanee; dealer in organs; Rep; Pres; born Oneida Co. N. Y. 1838. HURST WM. Kewanee; retired; Rep; Meth. Epis; born in N. Y. City, 1825; five children. HUTCHINSON JOHN G. Kewanee; justice of peace and notary; Dem; Ind; born N.Y.

INGLES GILES B. Kewanee; laborer; Rep; Meth. Epis; born in W. Va; four children. IRVING EDWARD, Sec. 29; P.O. Kewanee; coal miner; Dem; Cath; born Ireland. IRWIN THOMAS, Sec. 29; P.O. Kewanee; coal miner; Dem; Cath; born Ireland.

JACKSON STEPHEN H. Furniture Dealer and Undertaker, Kewanee; born in Exeter, Pa. Dec. 3, 1827; came to this county in 1854; Rep; Meth; value of property $2,500; married Errilly J. Lutes, Aug. 24, 1852; she was born in Wyoming Co. April 5, '27.

JACOBS MARY JANE Mrs. Weaver, Sec. 18; P.O. Kewanee; born in Mercer Co- Pa. Dec. 13, 1833; came to this Co. in 1848; Meth. Epis; value of property, $1,000; she has two children living, one deceased; the living are Sherman, born April 9, 1855, and Wm. Sylvester, born March 16, 1859; lost one daughter, Violetta, born Jan. 10, 1857, died Oct. 15, I857-

T/"AHLER FREDERICK W. Kewanee; restaurant; Ind; Ii.d; born in Prussia; $2,000. KALLIN JULIUS, Sec. 12; P.O. Kewanee; farmer; Rep; Luth; born in Germany.

KEELER JOSIAH, Secretary Kewanee Manufacturing Co Kewanee; born in Clarendon, N. Y. Dec. I, 1834; came to this county April 26, 1859; Ind; Univ; value property, $10,000; married Lydia E, Morse, June 12, 1864; has four children : Ira B. born May II, 1865; Harriett M. born Aug. 30, 1868; Andrew N.born Dec. 7, 1870; Delia E. born Dec. 14, 1873; Mr. Keeler is Village Trus'.ee; has served three years on the Board.

KELLOGG HOSMER L. Cashier People's Bank, Kewanee, born in Canaan, Conn. Nov. 30, 1833; came to this county in 1854; Rep; Ind; value of real estate and personal property, $3.500; married Emily Platt, in Kewanee, Aug. 10, 1864; she was born in Fowlerville, N. Y. April 18, 1839; has three children: James L. born Sept. 15, 1866; Albert T. born March 20, 1868; Louisa, born Dec. 3, 1872.

KEMPIN CHRISTIAN FREDERICK, Farmer, Sec. 1, P.O. Kewanee; born in Prussia, Jan. 8, 1838, came to this county in 1856; Rep; Lulh; owns 140 acres of land, valued at $2,500; married Rosella Kempin Dec. 27, 1864; she was born in Prussia, Feb. 19, 1840; they have four children : Mary Louisa, born Oct. I, 1866, August Henry, born Aug. 20, 1868, Walter Alexander, born Feb. 2, 1874, Antonie Veronaka, born Feb. 2, 1874; Mr. K. is School Director and Trustee of Lutheran Churqh.

KENT CHARLES. Farmer, Sec. 27, P.O. Kewanee: born in Greenfield, Saratoga Co. N.Y., Aug. II, 1821, came to this county, Oct. 1844; Rep; Cong; owns 236 acres of land, value of property $15,000; married Lucinda M, Hurd, Sept. 12, 1844; she was born in Castile, N.Y., Jan. 14, 1823; Mr. Kent was Supervisor of Neponsel Tp. Bureau Co. 111. in 1852. and first Town Clerk and Collector of that Tp; has been School Director here.

KENT RICHARD, Agent Lathrop Coal and Mining Co. at Wyoming, 111; residence, Kewanee; l-orn in Cornwall, England, Dec. 17, 1831, came to this county in 1855; Rep; Meth. Epis; owns ho.use and lot, valued at $1,500, and 160 acres of land in Marion Co. Kansas; married Rosetta J. Chambers, Oct. 20, 1861; she was born in Warren Tp. Jefferson Co. Ohio, April 8, 1825; they have ihree children living: James M., born Oct. 6, 1865, George B., born Sept. 2, 1867, Julius D., born Sept. 28, 1875; they have lost two children.

KING PIUS, Kewanee; tailor; born in Wurtemburg, Germany, June 7, 1825, came to this country in 1854; came to this county July 14, 1863; Dem; Cath; owns house and lot and 6'4 acres in village, valued at 82,500; married Mrs. Elizabeth Hilbert, April 17, 1864; she was born in France, Sept. 8, 1821; Mrs. King has three daughters by first marriage: Louisa, Bertha and Emily Hilbert.

KUSTER WM. Jr. Farmer, Sec. 14, P.O. Kewanee; born in Prussia, March 26, 1847; came to this county in 1856; Rep; Luth; owns 240 acres of land, valued at $10,000; married Antony Quort, Nov. 24, 1872; she was born in Prussia, March 18, 1852; they have one child, Ines L., born July 30, 1875; Mr. Kuster is Deacon of German Lutheran Church.

LAY HIRAM, Kewanee; merchant; Rep; Cong; born Wis. 1839; &ve children. LADD CHARLES K. Attorney, Kewanee; born in Wilmot, N. H. Feb. 26, 1839; came to this county in March, 1855; Dem; Mr. Ladd has the only complete Abstract of Land Titles in Henry Co.

LADD JOHN H. Farmer, Sec. 27, P.O. Kewanee; born in Wilmot, N. H. Sept. 21, 1851; came to this county in 1859; Dem; Ind; married Caroline Laird, April II, 1874; born April II, 1853; they have two children, Daisy May, born April 23, 1875, Frank Percival, born July 19, 1876.

LARSON CHARLES P. Kewanee; Retired; born in Sweden, July, 1827; came to this country in 1854; came to this county in 1856; Rep; Luth; owns house and lot worth $800; married Anna C. Erickson, July. 1856.

LILLEY WILLIAM, Sec. 26, P.O. Kewanee. The subject of this sketch was born of respectable and well-to-do parents, at Oldham, England, Jan. 22. 1817, and baptized at St. Peter's, May 15, 1817; his mother was related to the well-known, wealthy, and aristocratic English families - Radcliffs. Mayalls, and Duckworths, of Mosley and Oldham; his parents sailed from London on board the ship Susannah, of London, July It, 1818, for St. John, New Brunswick, and from there to Boston, Mass, arriving in Boston Sept. S, 1818; his father, after living in Mass, for a short time, formed a stock company, built and managed the first cotton mill in Mass, at Andover [this mill is still standing, but not used for anything, and fast decaying]; he was man-led Nov. i, 1843, at Albany, N.Y. to Miss Harriet Huntley; his wife Harriet was born at Stanstead, Canada, Feb. 28, 1821; her ancestors were some of those numbered on board the Mayflower, her great grandfather being the first white child born in New England - born the second day after the landing of the Pilgrim Fathers - and, owing to the wanderings of this band, he was named " Peregrine" - Peregrine White. [Among other curiosities shown the visitor at Plymouth, Mass, is the rude cradle used for this man when a child.] Mr. Win. Lilley and wife moved from Lowell, Mass, to Henry Co. December 15, 1843, where they since have lived; they have been blessed with five children, Hellen, born Jan. 6, 1845, and now married; George, born Feb. 7, 1850; John, born Feb. 8, 1852; Charles, born Aug. 4, 1854; Laura, born Feb. 8, 1855; of these all are living except Laura, who was taken away by death, Feb. 24, 1868. " Laura was seldom from home, as she was all her natural life an afflicted child; hence they feel their loss the more. But Laura has gone before - not lost." - Henry Co. Dial. Mr. Lilley has, by perseverance, industry, and labor, accumulated a large property, his home farm consisting of 417 acres of very rich farming land, the surface valued at $100 per acre; it has a good coal vein, 4 ft. thick, and 120 ft. below the surface; the coal is leased, for a period of twenty-five years, to the Lathrop Coal and Mining Co. office Kewanee, 111. "Our coal is superior in quality and cleanliness, burning freely, and leaving little or no soot, which is so objectionable in most Illinois coals. Our facilities for mining and shipping are unequaled by any coal operators in this vicinity." A. B. Ashley, Supt; E. C. Cheever, Cashier. Each cubic foot of coal will weigh fifteen pounds, or 2,700 pounds for every square yard, which, multiplied by 4,840 (the number of square yards in an acre), gives 6,5 34 tons per acre; and this, multiplied by the number of acres (417), gives the enormous amount of 2,724.678 tons; this, again multiplied by 12^ cents (the amount paid by the Co. for royalty on every ton of coal mined), will amount to $340,584 75. The mine, when in full operation, is capable of mining and raising 300 tons of coal daily, which, multiplied by 12% cents, gives, at the rate of $37 per day, $962 per month, and $11,144 per annum, royalty. He also has another farm in Henry County, consisting of 120 acres of very rich and productive soil.

Mr. Lilley has been eminently successful in obtaining his share of this world's goods - thus are his patience, industry, and fortitude rewarded; coming, as he did, to Henry Co. one of the earliest settlers, when all was a wide, vast, unbroken, and wild prairie, he has contributed his best talent and judgment to the advancement of his county, and made it what it it is, one of the foremost in the state. He has seen his county in the possession of the wild beasts of the field, and now it is possessed by a cultivated and intelligent people, churches, and schools. Thus is he rewarded. " By their fruits ye shall know them."

LITTLE HENRY Gr. Kewanee. The following biographical sketch was furnished for this work by an old settler of Henry County, and intimate friend of its subject :

Henry G. Little was born in Gofftown, N. H. March 31, 1813; in March, 1835, he left the rugged New England hills to seek his fortune on the fertile prairies of Illinois, and settled temporarily in Peoria. March I, 1836, he married Fidelia M. Stodd.trd, a daughter of the Puritans, a descendant of the redoubtable Gen. Miles Standish, and brought his young wife from the comforts and refinements of her plea_sant home in the staid old town of Newington, Conn, to endure, uncomplainingly, patiently, and cheerfully the privations and dangers of frontier life. They came to Henry County in November of the same year, and the following Spring set up their household gods in a log cabin, near the present home of C. C. Blish, Esq. of Kewanee, and commenced farming on the lands now owned by Dr. Lewis Hurd and Asa Cole. Three months later (June 19, 1837), Mr. Little, accompanied by his brother, C. J. T. Little, rode thirty miles across the trackless prairie, utterly destitute of road, bridge, or dwelling, to the house of George Brandenburg, where he took part in the organization of Henry County.

The first election in Wethersfield Precinct was held at Mr. Little's house, in August of the same year. The single room, sixteen feet by eighteen, which the dwelling contained, was at that time the residence of three families, Col. S. Blish and Mr. W. H. Blish having just arrived from Connecticut and taken up temporary quarters with Mr. Little. There were also two men, \V. II. ISlish and llazelton Page, lying sick ol fever in the same room. When election day arvived, even Mr. Littie himself, who always dwells with a sort of regretful pleasure upon the enjoyments of those early days, and finds it difficult to remember anything worthy of being termed ''hardship," admits that they were "a little crowded." Sullivan Howard, H. G. Little, and Norman Butler acted as judges of election. Sullivan Howard and H. G. Little were elected Justices of the Peace, an office which Mr. Little held for more than fifteen years in the county.

As a farmer, Mr. Little shaved to the full all the labors and inconveniences inseparable from that calling during the settlement of the county, and, in addition, was often called to occupy posts of trust and responsibility involving public interests. In 1850, he was elected Sheriff and Collector of the county, and for two years performed the duties of those offices. Though there was no jail in the county and he sometimes was obliged to keep prisoners for weeks in his own house, chaining them at night to the cooking stove, no prisoner ever escaped from his hands. Though there was neither safe nor bank in the county, not a dollar of the revenue of those years was ever lost. All taxes were paid in gold and silver, and the coin was deposited with trusted friends in various parts of the county. Mrs. Francis Loomis was for months the keeper of two shot-bags of gold, hidden in a rag-bag hanging from the rafters of a chamber, with hired men sleeping near. Mr. Little tells thrilling stories of long rides across the wild prairies with no companion but a desperate thief or murderer chained and manacled by his side, whom he was conveying to the penitentiary at Alton ; or bearing the scarcely less dangerous charge of a carpet-bag of gold to be deposited with the State Treasurer at Springfield.

Having been all his life a Whig, and in earnest sympathy with the anti-slavery cause, Mr. Little naturally became identified with the Republican party from its organization, and as a Republican, represented the three counties of Mercer, Rock Island and Henry, with a population of over 50,000, in the exceedingly busy and laborious session of the Illinois Legislature of 1856-7. At this time he formed the acquaintance of Abraham Lincoln, John A. Logan and others who were afterward distinguished in the state and the nation. Among the acts passed by this Legislature were those for the removal of the county-seat of Mercer Co. from Keith^burg to Aledo; for enlarging the city limits of Rock Island; and for the incorporation of the town of Kewanee.

Mr. Little was from its organization an active member of the Henry County Agricultural Society : was elected President the second year of its existence, and again in 1866. He has been an extensive land-holder in the county, entering from the government in iSsoand 1851 a large body of land, besides purchasing from other parties. For many years he dealt largely in lands, and the records show that few men have passed through their hands so large a portion of Henry County.

Kewanee owes much to the energy and public spirit of Henry G. Little. He was one of the four original proprietors of that town, as he was also of the neighboring town of Neponset. More than one pleasant residence in Kewanee and many a spreading tree bear witness to his enterprise and taste. The dwelling now owned and occupied by Dr. Hiram Nance was built by him, and was for some 'years his home. During his residence in the town, he was identified with all efforts for the material, educational and religious improvement of the place, giving liberally of his time, his strength and his means for the benefit of town and school and church ; and the same was true of him while living in Wethersfield. The early settlers of this county would not have been true to their Puritan ancestry had they made less thorough provision for the fostering and culture of intelligence and morality, and no one labored more earnestly, or made more cheerful sacrifices for those ends than the subject of this article. The love of learning and Christian culture, whose foundations he and his colaborers laid broad and deep while yet the wilderness looked wondering on, have risen into fair and stately structures all over the land ; and the graduation records of many a college and seminary bear the names of those who have entered into the labors of these early toilers.

A sketch of the life of Henry G. Little, however brief, would be incomplete without at least a reference to the genial and generous hospitality always seen in his home. Equally in the log-cabin of one room and in the spacious comfortable home of later years friends and strangers were always sure of cordial welcome, and guests were rarely wanting. For religious meetings, for benevolent organizations, for the entertainment of ministers and others whose calling or circumstances appealed to their sympathies, Mr. and Mrs. Little held always an open door. Their house was often called " the ministers' hotel," and to their ungrudging hospitality to strangers they owe many a valued friendship whose end is not yet.

All of Mr. Little'-- children were born in Henry County. Two of them died in infancy, and one son, Frank H., in 1863, at the age of sixteen. Of the five remaining, Louise S. married Henry S. Viels, of Oberlin, Ohio, now in business in Grinnell, Iowa; Mary Maude married Prin. Jesse Macy, of [o,\a College, Grinnell ; Flizabeth H. married J. P. Lyman, a lawyer of Grinnell; Fannie R. and Henrietta G. reside with their parents. In 1867, the whole family removed to Grinnell, Iowa, where they still remain. Mr. Little has been for four successive years elected Mayor of that city. His efforts in laying out and beautifying the Grinnell cemetery, in promoting various improvements in the town, and in building his present substantial home, show that he did not lose his taste and energy in crossing the Mississippi.

Though for ten years past residents of another state, he and his wife have not lost their affection for, and interest in the scenes of their early toils and sacrifices. They return often to visit the dear old friends and stand by the graves of their children.

LITTLE C. «J. T. Kewanee; General Auctioneer; widely known as such; born in X. H. July 13, l8n; came to this Co. April 30, 1837; Rep; Cong; married Eliza Ann Brooks, May

13, 1834; she was born in N.H. July 27, 1813; they have had eight children, one deceased; the living are, Charles, engaged in practice of medicine in Kansas; Ellen E. (now Mrs. G. W. Perkins, of Iowa); Sarah J. (now Mrs. Dr. Todd, of Galva, 111.); William C. a lawyer in Kansas; Eliza A. (now Mrs. Frank Re d); George B. a physician, in Burlington, Iowa; and John J. a student, living at home; Hattie, wife of Rev. J. Giflen, died Sept. 26, 1872, and left one daughter; in 1844 Mr. Little left his former business and engaged in mercantile pursuits; he always took an active interest in the education of children; he was a member of the School Board, from its first organization, while he remained in Wethersfield - about twentyfive years; Mr. and Mrs. Little united with the Congregational Church July II, 1841; every member of their family has united with the same church.

LOOMIS OREN H. Dealer in Agricultural Implements, Kewanee; born in North Coventry, Conn. June 17, 1822; came to this county in 1850; Rep; Cong; married Cornelia A. Starkweather, Aug. 27. 1850; has seven children living, Niles H., born Dec. 7, 1852; Henry L., born May 24, 1854; Lucy C., born Nov. 28, 1855; Rosetta M., Grace E., Emma F.. Hattie M.; has lost two children; Mr. Loomis has been Justice of the Peace, and served fifteen years as School Trustee.

LYLE JOHN, Kewanee; Capitalist; born in Paisley, Scotland, July 29, 1806; came to this State in 1836; came to this county in 1855; Rep; Ind;. married Esther D. Craig; she was born in Ryegate, Vt. in 1815; they have had one child, George, born Oct. 15, 1834, died May

LYLE WM. Sec. 25, P.O. Kewanee; farmer; Rep; Prot; born Scotland; 160 acres. LYMAN ELIAS, Kewanee; Merchant; born in Royalton, Vt. Jan. 5, 1831; came to this county in Feb. 1862; Rep; Ind; married Addie Trask, of Rochester, Windsor Co. Vt. Dec.

14, 1858; they have two children. Nellie, born Oct. 31, 1863; Lillie Louise, born Feb. 17, 1870; Mr. Lyman was President of First National Bank of Kewanee three years.

McBRIDE SAMUEL, Kewanee; coal miner; Rep; born Pa; $500. McADAM ADELAIDE Mrs. Kewanee; Dressmaker; born in Wethersfield, June 13, 1844; Meth. Episcopal; owns house and lot, value $500; married Wm. H. McAdam, June

McCAUGHEN JAMES, Sec. 35, P.O. Kewa ice; farmer; born Ireland; 1 60 acres, $12,000. McCONNELL DELIA M. Mrs. wid. of Edward; Kewanee; born N.Y; $400. McCONNELL ISAAC, Kewnnee; hotel propr; Rep; Meth; born Jefferson Co; $6,000.

MAUL Al>OLiPH, Baker, Confectioner and Insurance Agent, Kewanee; born in Weidn, Germany, July 12, 1830; came to this Co. June 30, 1863; Lib. Rep; Tnd; value of property, 83.000; married Mary James, Aug. 14. '63; she was born in Salem, N. C. Aug. 1837; has five children : Hattie, born Aug. 1864; Emma, Edward, William, Lina; was member of Village Board of Trustees two years; is now member of Board of Education and Library Board, and assistant Township Supervisor; is also N. G. of Wethersfield Lodge I. O. O, F.

MAUNDER CHARLES S. Farmer, Sec. 22; P.O. Kewanee; born in Somersetshire, England, Jan. 16, 1823; came to this Co; in 1855; Rep; Cong; owns 41 acres, valued at $3,000; married Jane Rowe, in England, in 1846; she died Feb. 24, 1857; they had three children, all living : Emma A., Ellen M. and Eugene; secood wife was Martha C. Goodrich; she died July 28, 1870. leaving one daughter; Lucy G. Maunder, present wife, was Mrs. Rachel R. King, of Dundee, 111. married Oct. 23, 1876; Mr. M. is School Director, has acted in that capacity several years.

MERBITT XEHEMIAH, Kewanee; Retired Farmer; born in Patterson, Putnam Co. N.-Y. Feb. 19, 1802; was clothier for twelve years in Dutchess and Ulster Counties, N. Y.; lived in Ulster Co. N Y. fr6m 1826 to 1836; moved to Putnam Co. 111. in 1836; removed to Bureau Co. in 1837; in 1838, moved to Stark Co.; in 1848, moved to Marshall Co. where he resided twenty-one years; in the Spring of 1870 came to Kewanee, where he has spent five months every year, spending the Spring and Summer each year in Afton, Union Co. Iowa; married Melinda Smith, Jan. 5, 1828; she was born in Marlborough, N.Y. March 13, 1812; they have two children, both daughters; Mr. Merritt joined the Baptist Church in Marlborough, N. Y. in 1831; he is a Rep.

MESSMORE JACOB, Jr. Farmer, Sec. 4; P.O. Kewanee; bom in Wayne Co. Ohio, Aug. 28, 1840; came to this county in 1852; Independent in politics and religion; owns 100 acres of land, valued at $6,000; married Rebecca J. Gochenouer, April 5, 1864; she was born in Warren Co. OMo, May 19. 1846; they have one child, Emma Permelia, born Sept. 13, 1866; Mr. Messmore is School Director, Pathmaster and Conservator of the Collins Morey Estate; served three years in Co. A, 1241(1 I. V. I.

MILLER JAMES P. Kewanee. Carpenter, Contractor and Builder; born in Blakely, Luzerne Co. Pa. Sept. 28, 1829; came to this Co. in 1853; Dem; Ind; owns house and three lots and too acres of lind in Schuyler County, 111; married Irma Enos; she was born in Luzerne Co. Pa; they have six children : Ella J. (now Mrs. A. H. Britton); Ida M. (now Mrs. O. H. Casbeere); Fred A. Charles, Hattie L. and Ettie L.; Mr. Miller was in U. S. Service three years as Bridge Builder.

MOREY COLLINS, Farmer, Sec. 3; P.O. Kewanee; born in N. Y. Aug. 1812; came to this Co. in 1853; Rep; United Brethren; owns 185 acres of land, valued at $9,000; ntarried Rebecca Potter, of Dutchess Co. N. Y.; has one son, Francis E. Morey, who now conducts the farm.

MORTON DANIEL, Kewanee; farmer; born in Independence, Ohio, May 18, 1815? lived twelve years in Michigan; came to this county in 1846; Rep; Bapt; owns 160 acres in Annawan Tp. Sec. 34, and 256 acres in Kewanee Tp. Sec. 3; value of the two pieces $20,500; also owns 120 acres in Wethersfield Tp. Sec. 19, valued at $10,000; 160 acre; in Wyanet Tp. Sees. 31 and 32, valued at $10,400; 30 acres in the village of Kewanee, Sec. 33, valued at $9,000; married Sarah Bryant, Feb. 29, 1836; she died Nov. 15, 1857; married present wife Mrs. Catharine Buckley, March 22, 1858; she was born in Dover, N.Y., Dec. 31, 1829; had five children by first marriage, one deceased; the living are Emeline (now Mrs. Jacob Pothoff), born April 25, 1839; Henry C., born Jan. 15, 1841; Mary E. (now Mrs. C. H. Bumphrey) born Nov. 26, 1842; Gilbert, born Sept. 9, 1846; had three children by second wife, one deceased; the living are Edna, born Jan. 29, 1862; George A., born Aug. 9, 1866.

MULHOLLAND FREDERICK A. Kewanee; Carpenter, Contractor and Builder; born in Toronto, Canada, April 4, 1830; came to this county in 1853; Rep; Meth. Epis; owns house, shop and two lots valued at $1,500, and 160 acres of land (n. e. ^ of Sec. 16, Wethersfield Tp.) valued at $11,000; married Jane Kay, Nov. 15, 1854; she died Jan. 13, 1866; they had three children, two are living, their names are Julian E., born Nov. 13, 1856, and James L., born Feb. 9, 1864; Mr. M.'s present wife was Mrs. Ann Prather; married Dec. 6, 1866; they have three children living, Minnie F., born March 28, 1869; Albert F., born Dec. 16, 1870; Melvin F., born Nov. 17, 1875.

NELSON HANS, Kewanee; shoemaker; Luth; born in Sweden, 1845; two children. NEST GODFREY, Sec. 27; P.O. Kewanee; retired; born in Sweden. NOBLING ADOLPH, Kewanee; laborer; Dem; born in Germany.