Laenna Township

Laenna Township

AYRES ALiFRED, farmer. Sec. 5; P.O. Mt. Pulaski; was born in Hamilton Co. Ohio, Jan. 25, 1829, and raised -in Miami Co. Ohio; came to Illinois in 1850; was married to Nellie Hoffman, March 25, 1864; had three children : Laura, Mary Alice, and Lina Jane; owns 40 acres, yalued at $1,600; rep; liberal

CLARK DAVID WARD, retired farmer and justice of the peace, Sec. 7; P.O. Mt. Pulaski; rep; Meth; bom in Kentucky, September 30, 1809. His father.

Logan Ooxjntt Dirbctoby

John W. Clark, was a native of New Jersey, and his mother, Ann (Isgrig), was a native of Maryland. In i8i6, Mr. Claik came, with his parents, to Miami County, Ohio, where he learned the house-joiner's trade. Two days before he was of age, on Sepember 28, 1830, he started on foot for Illinois, walking all the way, save when he was crossing the Wabash River; he was twelve days on the way; came to Richard W. Clark's, in Sangamon County. On July 7, 1831. he was married here to Hannah Stout, who was born in Pennsylvania, December 27, 1810. Went to Springfield to live; from there to Athens, and from there, in 1841, to his present home on Salt Creek; he has six children: Thomas S. bom February 13, 1832; Margaret Ann, November 16, 1835; Isaac T. March 16, 1841; Robert D. September 30, 1844; Charles R. April 23, 1846; and Angeline M. September 17, 1S50. Mr. Clark owns 280 acres, valued at $14,000

/^AIVEN MICHAEL, section boss. La- tham; dem; Cath; bora in Illinois Gallaway Joseph, farmer. Sec. 26; P.O. Latham; rep; liberal; from Ohio Gassaway Lawrence, laborer, Latham; dem»

M.D. physician and surgeon, Latham; was bom in Someryille, Butler Co. Ohio, Aug. 6, 1843; he graduated at the Ohio Wesleyan University, Delaware, Ohio, July 23^ 1862; also graduated at the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Surgery, of Cincinnati, Feb. 22, 1866; married Sarah C. Neal, of Cicero, Ind. April 29, 1869. Mr. M. has been a resident of Illinois over four years

PATTERSON MULTON, farmer. Sec. 18; P.O. Mt. Pulaski; bom in Logan Co. on Salt Creek, Mait:h 20, 1834. His parents settled here the fall previous; they were natives of Botetourt Co. Va. and were married there. His father, Moses Patterson, was bom Dec. 25, 1795. His pa-

Tents were William and Rebecca Patterson, and were bom in Ireland. His mother -was Jane Humphris, born May 17, 1793. * Her parents were John and Margaret Humphris. Moses Patterson and Jane Humphris were married Aug. 27, 1816, -by Rev. Elijah Knox, a Methodist minister. Moses Patterson died in Mt. Pulaski in Dec. 1853, his wife in Oct. 1855. Milton Patterson went to California in 1850; returned in 1852, and, on Dec 31, 1854, was married to Jane Moran, who was bom April 26, 1837; they have nine children living and one dead; those living are: Ambrose, born Dec. 21, 1855; John, Feb. 15,1858; SalisA. Au?. 5, ^86i: Mary Ann, Dec. 2, 1863; Achsah, March 29, 1866; Manton, Sept. 17, 1868; Barney, Dec. 20, 1871; Delta, March 30, 1873; Milton, Dec.

ItEESE EDWARD, farmer. Sec 6; P.O. Mt. Pulaski; son of John and Mary Reese; was born in Logan Co. Aug. 21, 1850; married to Miss Jessie Fisher, March 12, 1874; have two children, Harry and Albert; owns 290 acres in Sec. 6, valued at $11,600; rep; liberal

XtlXG DANIELi, farmer, Sec 16; P.O. Mt. Pulaski; son of General Ring, who died in Ohio, April 6, 1862. He was a native of Vermont. His mother, Susannah * Hing, was born in Ohio, Aug. 9, 1812; she was married Sept. 5, 1832, and lived in Fairfield Co. until 1866, when she brought her family to Logan Co. where she now lives. Her family consists of five children living (five are dead); those living are: Catharine (Mrs. St. Clair), bom Sept. 11 1833; Jacob L. Sept. 29, 1835; James H. July 27, 1840; Daniel, Jan. 11, 1845; and Sarahf Oct. 4, 1849. '^^ ^^^ ^wo are now at home with their mother. Daniel manages the farm of 400 acres

Pulaski; rep; from Pennsylvania Shuesele Christian, farmer. Sec. 2; P.O. Chesnui; Bap; from Germany Simp.>(>n A. farmer. Latham; dem; Bap; bom

Hiam: rep; liberal; from Ohio Spring Samuel W. farmer, Sec. 23; P.O. Latham; dem; Bapt; from Ohio Stangel R. fanner, Sec. 22; P.O. Mt. Pulaski; dem; liberal; from Germany Stennett James, farmer, Latham; dem; liberal; born in I llinois Stennet Geoi^e, farmer Sec. 33; P.O. Latham; dem; liberal; born in Illinois Stennett Robert, farmer, Latham, dem; liberal; born in Illinois Stivers Grundy, farmer, Sec 33; P.O. Latham; dem; liberal; born in Illinois Stoker John, farmer. Sec. 25; P.O. Latham; rep; Cath; Germany Sioll Conrad, farmer, Sec. 22; P.O. Ml. Pulaski; dem; Cath; from Germany StoU Erhard, fanner. Sec. 9; P.O. Mt. Pulaski; dem; Luih; from Germany Stoll Jacob, farmer, Sec. 4; P.O. Mt.. Pulaski; and CHRISTIAN, farmers, Sees. 11, and 3; P.O. Mt. Pulaski; sons of Dietrich Suid.emeir, who was bom in Germany in 1804; he was married in 1828 to Angelina Mary Charlotte Meier, who was born in Germany in 1805; they had five children, two of whom are dead; the father came to America in 1846, by way of New Orleans to St. Louis, to Pekin and to Mt. Pulaski Township, where he still lives; about two years after his wife and three children came; she is now dead; Fred William was born in 1827; he was married to Catharine Hann; they have seven children: Mary, Henry, Lizzie, Christian, Anna, Christina and William; he has 300 acres; Christian was bom in 1834; in 1859 ^^ was married to Margaret Mous; they have eight children: Mary, Katie, Henry, Annie. Lane, Eva, Willam and Edward; he owns 280 acres

Cath; from Ireland Tribbitts Asbuiy, farmer. Sec. Ii; P.O. Latham; rep; from Ohio TRIBBETT CHARLES, fanner. Sec. 23; P.O. Latham; rep; liberal; wasborn in Indiana in 1853; came to Macon Co. in 1854, and to this county in 1856; married Sarah f. Scroggin, Feb. 11, 1875; she was bora in thi» county in 1857; l»ave one child, Benjamin Franklin, bom Sept, 4, 1877; his father, Asbury Tribbett, was one of the first settlers in this township Trumbul Cora Miss, milliner, Latham; Meth; from Ohio dem; Ind; bom Illinois Allison Sylvester, farmer. Sec. 11; P.O. Latham; dem; Ind; bom Illinois Archer Thomas, farmer. Sec. i; P.O. Latham; dem; Ind; from Ohio

BLACKFORD HFNBY, farmer. Sec. 10; P.O. Latham; bom in Illinois in 1848; dem; Bap; owns 80 acres, worth $3,- 200; wife, Mary Thompson, bom in Illinois in 1847; married in 1873; have two children, one girl and one boy

GASSAWAY WHiLIAM H. far. mer. Sec. lo; P.O. Latham; bom in Ohio,. March 5, 1833; came to this county in 1855; rep; Uni; owns 120 acres worth $4,000; has held oflice of justice of thepeace; supervisor two terms; wife was Polly W. Hom, bora in North Carolina; was married Feb. 5, 1855; have nine child* ren: two boys and seven girls

Logan Couhtt Dibbctobt

T UCAS GEORGE 0. fanner. Sec. 6; P.O. '^ Latham; dem; Ind; from Illinoii Lucas Jamei F. fanner. Sec iS; P.O. Mt. Palaiki; dem; Chris; bom Illinoii

JOHN, fanner. Sec' 18; P.O. ** Mt. Pulaski; dem; Ind; fromOhio Whiteside James, farmer, Sec. 13; P.O. Latham; dem; from North Carolina

Atlanta; dem; Meth; bom Illinois 3ABR JAMES (deceased), farmer; bom May 12, 1808, in Tennessee. Mr. Barr was one of the pioneer settlers of Logan Co. having come to this county in 1829, then in the 21st year of his age. He enlisted in the Black Hawk war. in 1832, and served all through that conflict of pioneer times. He was married in 1826 to Margaret Houchins, who was bom in 1808, in Warren Co. Ky. In politics Mr. B. was always a democrat. He was a life-long member of the Methodist church. In his home, surrounded by his wife and children, Mr. Barr showed the happiest phases of his character; as a husband, he was kind; as a father, he was just and generous. He became the father of nine children, seven -of whom are living. Their names are : Levisa,Nancy, Lucinda. Mellisa,George W., Philadelphia, Mary, Eliza J. and Olive F. On the x6th of October, 1877. in the 69th year of his age, Mr. Barr closed his earthly life. His work being finished, he folded his arms from toil, and closed his eyes to scenes of human conflict. The men who, like James Barr, stood in front and fought the battles of pioneer life, will not soon pass from human memory 3arr John W. farmer. Sec. 4; P.O. Atlanta;

BURK JAMES H. farmer. Sec. 21; P.O. Lawndale; rep; C. Pres; bom Sept. 3. 1853. in Logan Co. His father, Wm. A. Burk, who was born in Davis Co. Ky. in 1830; was one of the early settlers in Logan Co. having come here when eighteen years of age. He was married in 185 1 lo Ruann Clark, who was born in 1829, in Illinois. Wm. A. Burk died Aug. 15, 1863. liis son, James H. Burk, owns a farm of 160 acres, valued at $8,000, and has one daughter, Mary, who is m^irried to U. C. Killebrew

COLE ROBERT G. farmer, Sec. 27; P.O. Beason; dem; C. Pres; bom May 27, 1835, in Surrey, England, and emigrated to the United States in 1859, and came to Illinois the same year, and settled in Pike Co. lived there until 1872, and then came to Logan Co; was married Aug. 4, 1858, to Emma Hammerton, who was bom April 22, 1833. in Lincolnshire, England; have two children living, Lucy Emma and William David; and three dead: Mary Ann, George T. W. and Anna M. Isabel; rents farm of 160 acres

CUMMINS THOMAS A. farmer, Sec. 34; P.O. Beason; rep; Meth; bora Feb. II, 1839, in Green Co. Ohio; served two years and six months in the 44th Regiment, Ohio Vol. Infantry and reenlisted in the 8th Ohio Cavalry; settled in Logan Co. in 1867; was married Aug. 18, 1870, to Hannah A. Turk, who was bom Oct. 15, 1846, in Warren Co. Ohio; one child, George A. born Oct. 14, 1873; rents farm of 140 acres

CURRY JAMES C. farmer. Sec. 21; P.O. Beason; rep; C. Pres; born in Gibson Co. Indiana, in 1849, and came to Logan Co. Illinois, in 1856; was married to Sallie Park, March 9, 1876, who was bom in Ireland in 1849, owns farm of 160 acres, valued at $8,000; Mr. Curry has served one term as township collector, and as a recognition of his integrity was re-elected and is now serving his second term

DONSON JOHN H, farmer and draintile manufacturer, Sec. 5, Oran; P.O. Atlanta; dem; Universalist; bom June 13,. 1833, in England; emigrated to America December, 1858; went to Missouri, lived there four months, and then went steamboating on the Mississippi and Ohio rivers; in 1859^ settled in Ohio and lived there till Febmary, 1876, and then settled in Logan Co. Ill; was married July 23, i860, to Jane Minnery. who was bom May i, 1842, in France; has four children: William, James B., May and Joseph; owns 14 acres land, tile factory and dwelling house, valued at $4,000

DORSETT LINDSEY D. deceased, farmer; was bom 1827 in North Carolina; emigrated to Illinois when quite young; first settled in Schuyler Co. and lived there till 1865 when he came to Logan Co. and by earnest application dug from the soil a comfortable home for himself and family; and continued to toil with unceasing energy until death took him away. Lindsey D. Dorsett died March 8, 1871; he was married March 2, 185 1, to Theresa E. Clausey, who was bom 1831, in North Carolina; has six children, all of whom survive him, named: John K., Abner C, William O., Smith McK., Anna May and Ella J. The Dorsett estate consists of farm of 160 acres, valued at $8,000

Source changes here: from History of Logan County, Illinois, Together with Sketches of Its Cities, Villages, and Towns, Educational, Religious, Civil, Military, and Political History, Portraits of Prominent Person, and Biographies of Representative Citizens : Also a Condensed History of Illinois, Embodying Accounts of Prehistoric Races, Indian Wars, and a Brief Review of Its Civil and Political History, by Inter-state Publishing Company (Chicago, Ill.), published 1886; 5,983 words in this source stream.

Laenna Township

The township of Laenna is in the soutiieast part of Logan County, in the eastern tier of townships, and is bounded as follows: On the north by ^tna Township, east by Macon County, south by Lake Fork Township and west by Mt. Pulaski Township. The greater part of the township is within a Y formed by the Illinois Central and Peoria, Decatur & Evansville railroads, the former running northeast through the northern part, and the latter southeast through the southera part. Latham is the only railroad station in the township.

1871 - Supervisor, James H. Ring; Clerk, R. H. Templeman; Assessor, Milton Patterson; Collector, George W. Coakley; Highway Commissioners, William E. Williams and William Rupp; Justices, D. W. Clark and William Kretzinger; Constables, Edwin R. Allen and Joseph Galloway.

1873 - Supervisor, R. H. Templeman; Clerk, Matthew T. Yaughn; Assessor, Amos Copeland; Collector, John "Weckel; Highway Commissioners, Jacob Voile and Erhard Stoll; Justices, D. W. Clark and W. H. Kretzinger; Constables, Augustus Reiderman and Noah Allison.

1881 - Supervisor, Allen Lucas; Clerk, C. L. Castello; Assessor, James A. Dncker; Collector, John F. Huston; Highway Commissioner, Paulus Horn; Justices, G. W. Howe and Christian Suedmeier; Constables, T. W. Gannon and Joseph Keagle.

1885 - Supervisor, W. H. Kretzinger; Clerk, C. E. Joynt; Assessor, C. L. Castello; Collector, J. F. Huston; Highway Commissioner, C Schroote; Justices, R Clark and A. Simpson; Constables, J. Keagle and J. A. Colvin.

Statistics

Laenna Township had 691 inhabitants in 1870, and 1,090 in 1880 - the largest relative increase shown by all the townships of Logan County between those two dates.

Political

Laenna was Republican for two or three years in its early history, 'but for the last fifteen years it has been Democratic by increasing majorities. Below is the vote for President each campaign since is situated in the southeast corner of the township, on sections 35 and 36, and is a station on the Peoria, Decatur & Evansville Raili.road. It was named in honor of Colonel Latham, of Lincoln, who was prominently connected with the building of that road. The village was laid out on the lands of Edwin A. Joynt and L. Parrish, in November, 1871. The first store in town was built by William and B. F. Dardin; the second, by Frederick Joynt; the third, which was afterward burned, by Dr. Leathers; and the fourth, by Henry Metchner. In 1872 an elevator was erected by G. M. Stine & Co. It was burned on the night of October 8, 1875. The next sp'ring the present elevator was built in its place. The shipments of grain from this point are large.

Latham has a population of about 300, and was incorporated in September, 1884. The officers for that year were: Trustees, W. H. Kretzinger (President), W. F. Henn, J. F. Huston, Peter Maus, Charles Sherman and Charles L. Castello; Clerk, J. A. Golvin; Justice, George W. Howe; Constable, C. E. Joynt. The officers for 1885 are: Trustees, W. F. Henn (President), W. H. Kretzinger^ Charles L. Castello, Joseph Shores, L. Parrish and F. M. Martin;. Clerk, J. A. Colvin; Treasurer, J. S. Clark; Justice, George W.. Howe; Constable, Joseph Howe.

Mortimer Zodffe, No. 35, ^. P., was organized about 1873. It meets every week and has a membership of from fifteen to twenty- The present officers are: C. A. Holbrook, C. C. ; D. Drentlinger, V. C; N". P. Gasaway, P.; N. Allison, M. of Ex.; John Wilkin-^ son, M. of F.; B. F. Dardin, K. of R. & S.; W. D. Griffin, Rep.

In 1875 a two-story school-house was erected, which is now occupied. It is an ungraded school, under township control. The Methodist Episcopal church was erected in the spring of 1873.. The congregation had been organized in a school-house about a mile west of the village. The pastor now is Rev. Dr. Davis, who holds services here every two weeks. The Baptists were organized in "Two-Mile Grove," in the school-house, and in the autumn of 1872 removed their place of worship to Latham, where they erected a church the following year. They usually have services every two weeks, but at present no meetings are held. Their last pastor was Rev. Joseph Hawkins.

Biographical

John Aiier, section 34, Laenna Township, is a native of Wurteinberg, Germany, born January 2, 1830, a son of Martin Auer. He was reared in his native country, and in June, 1853, came to the United States; and from Buffalo, went to Niagara Falls, New York, where he worked till the following fall. He then came to Logan County and worked about five years by the month. He was a poor man when he came to Logan County, but was industrious and economical, and had accumulated quite a property when he was nn- Ibrtimate and lost it all. He then commenced again with renewed energy, and now has a good farm of 170 acres in the homestead and 160 acres in Shelby County, Iowa. His family are equally energetic and to their aid he owes much of his success. Mr. Auer was married in March, 1858, to Barbara Kreuz, and to them have been born four children - John, Caroline and Charles Frederick (twins), and Samuel. Caroline is deceased. Mr. Auer and his wife are members of the Evangelical Association.

Christian Bechmann, farmer and stock-raiser, section 20, Laenna Township, was born in Saxony, Germany, February 26, 1828, a son of Christian Bechmann. He lived in his native country till manhood and was there married, and, in 1854, came to the United States. He lived in Columbus, Ohio, till 1857, and then came to Logan County, Illinois, and settled where he now lives, in Laenna Township. He has been a successful agriculturist and now owns 355 acres of valuable land, and his residence and farm buildings are among the best in the township. Mr. Bechmann was married in 1853 to Johannah, daughter of Christian Gessner. Of the six children born to them but three are living - Frank, Charles and Ida. Frank is a resident of Nebraska. Ida is the wife of Richard "Webir, of St. Louis, Missouri, and has two children. Mr. Bechmann and his wife are members of the Lutheran church.

Daniel Buehier, eection 1, Laenna Township, was born in Baden, Germany, February 26, 1817, a son of Jacob Bnehler. He came to the United States in 1854, and worked in Sullivan County, New York, two years, and in 1856 came to Illinois and lived near Lincoln, Logan County, till 1872, when he bought the farm where he now lives, containing 160 acres of valuable land. He has beenindustrious and frugal and by these means has accumulated hispropertj. Mr. Buehler was married in October, 1847, to Mary Summ, daughter of George Summ. Eight children have been born to them, but six of whom are living - Daniel, Mary, Fannie C, Emma, Emiel and Louie. One daughter, Louisa, wife of Cobus Leeseman, died September 17, 1885, aged twenty-five years. Daniel married Matilda Rummel and has four children - Daniel, Herman, Minnie and "Walter. Mary married Brown Leeseman and has six children - Emma, Louisa, Daniel, Maude, Frank and Edward. Fannie married William Hagenbuch and has had five children, but three of whom, Albert, Ellen and Louise, are living. Daniel and. Edward were drowned while bathing in Salt Creek in the summer of 1885. Mr. Buehler and his wife are members of the Lutheran church.

Ezra Clark, section 7, Laenna Township, was born in Yates^ Orleans County, New York, May 15, 1830. His father, John Clark, a native of New Jersey, moved with his family to Miami- County, Ohio, in the fall of 1837, and the following spring to what is now Logan County, Illinois, and settled on what was called the Lost Tract, now ^tna Township, where he died in March, 1855. Ezra Clark was reared in Logan County, obtaining his education in the subscription schools, the first he attended being taught in his father's stable. He was married November 26, 1850, to Sarah A., daughter of Richard W. Clark, a pioneer of Logan County. Of the eight children born to them six are living - Harriet N., Lodoiska J., Ann P., David M., Ellen L. and Fannie L Harriet married Dr. E. N. Wheeler, of Latham, and has one child - Edith ;^ Ann married John D. Israel, of Hitchcock County, Nebraska, and has three children - Ezra C, Jessie and Grover. Ellen married Henry Jimeson, of McPherson County, Kansas, and has an infant son. Mr. Clark is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church.

John A. Colvin, merchant and Postmaster at Latham, Illinois, is a native of Logan County, born in Lake Fork Township, January 20, 1853. His father, Levi Colvin, came from Bracken County, Kentucky, to Illinois, in 1851, and lived a year in Sangamon County, moving to Logan County in 1852. John A.. Colvin was reared and educated in Logan County and engaged in agricultural pursuits till twenty-five years of age. He then taught two winter terms of school and, in 1879, located in Latham and was employed as clerk sixteen months. He then formed a partnership with K. B.

Ooddington, in the ajeneral mercantile business, and in 1882 bought Mr. Coddington's interest and has since continued the business alone. He carries a full line of goods, his stock being valued at $5,000, and does an annual business of $20,000. He was appointed postmaster in September, 1885, a position he is well qualified to fill. Mr. Colvin was married in 1876 to Carrie Huston, who lived but a short time after their marriage.

William F. Henn, dealer in hardware and agricultural implements, Latham, was born in Lake Fork Township, Logan County, December 3, 1853. His father. Christian Henn, was a native of Germany, and came to the United States in 1852, locating in this county. William F. was reared and educated in the rural districts till fifteen years old, when he went to Mt. Pulaski and attended school two years. He then worked a year in the tin-shop of C. R. Copps, two years in Copps' flour-mill and four years in the tinshop of George F. Reinhardt. In 1877 he came to Latham and formed a partnership with his former employer, buying his interest in 1878. He carries a full line of general hardware, stoves, tinware, kitchen furniture, agricultural implements and farm machinery. Mr. Henn was married March 20, 1878, to Mary A., daughter of William Wagener.

Jokn Horn, section 17, Laenna Township, was born in Mt. Pulaski Township, La Salle County, Illinois, December 27, 1847, a son of Henry Horn, a native of Germany, who came to the United States in 1844, and to Logan County, Illinois, in 1845. John Horn was reared a farmer, a vocation he has always followed successfully, owning now 120 acres of valuable land. He was married in March, 1873, to Maggie, daughter of John Fishbauch, of Mt. Pulaski Township. They have three children - Minnie, George and Walter. In politics Mr. Horn is a Democrat. He and his wife are members of the Lutheran church.

JRev. Isaac Kretzinger was born in Shenandoah County, Virginia, in 1814. "His father, George Kretzinger, was a native of Germany, and was brought by his parents to America when a child. He was a soldier in the war of 1812. Isaac Kretzinger is a selfmade and self-educated man, never attending school but twentyone days. When a young man he was employed in a carding- mill in the summer, and engaged in teaming in the winter. In 1833 he united with the United Brethren church, and in 1838 was ordained a minister. He was actively engaged in the work of a Christian minister till 1880, and twenty-four years of the time was presidl^ ing elder. He came to Illinois ia 1853, and was living near Carthage, Hancock County, at the time Joe Smith was killed. In 1862 he moved to McDonough County, thence to Warren County in 1864, to Knox County in 1867, and to Logan County in March, 1873, locating where he now lives. Mr. Kretzinger was married to Mary Detrick, of Maryland, who died four months after their marriage. His second wife was Elizabeth Oglesby, a relative of Governor Oglesby. Five of their six children are living - William H., George W., Sarah J., Nancy M. and Joseph T. One son, Isaac, died in the fifth year of his age. Mrs. Kretzinger died June 11, 1883. April 1, 1884, Mr. Kretzinger married Sarah E., daughter of George Nail. His sons, George and Joseph, are prominent attorneys of Chicago, Illinois. The former was a soldier in the war of the Rebellion, and was taken captive at Independence, Missouri, but escaped from the hands of the rebels. Mr. Kretzinger has a good f^rm of 240 acres, all under cultivation.

Conrad Kusterer, farmer and stock-raiser, section 9, Laenna Township, is a native of Wurtemberg, Germany, born March 20, 1829. In 1853 he came to the United States, and settled in Logan County, Illinois, living in Mt. Pulaski Township nine years. In 1862 he moved to Sangamon County, and in 1870 returned to Logan County and located on his present farm, where he owns 225 acres of valuable land with good improvements. Mr. Kusterer was married in May, 1851, to Caroline Bauer, daughter of Conrad Bau«r. They huve seven children - Minnie, Frederick, John, Louis, Mary, Edward and Samuel. Minnie married Christ Shroat; John married Kate Bressmer, and Mary is the wife of Gerhardt Rentmeister. AH save the latter live in Laenna Township. Mr. Kusterer and his family are members of the Evangelical Association.

Henry Leimbach, section 3, Laenna Township, was born in Hesse Cassel, Germany, February 11, 1825. He came to the United States in 1847, and lived the first year in Brookville, Franklin County, Indiana, working on the canal at $12 a, month. In 1848 he came to Logan County, Illinois, and lived near Mt. Pulaski, working for $10 a month till January 29, 1852, when, in company with six others, he went to California, via the Panama route, and was six months in making the journey. When he reached Panama there were 14,000 people waiting for the steamer, which made only one trip a week. He landed in San Francisco, August 19, 1852, and remained in California, engaged in mining, till May, 1854, when he returned to Illinois and purchased a part of what is now his fine farm, paying $1,500 for his first 100 acres. "When Mr. Leiinbach came to America he was a poor man, but by hard work and economy he lias been successful, and now owns 600 acres of choice land, for which he paid from $12 to $45 an acre, and his improvements are among the best in the township. He was married in 1855 to Kate Luetterle, who died in 1864. Of the four children born to them two are living - Henry and Michael. Henry married Annie Reik, and has two children - Dora and Kate. Michael married Mary Shaffenacker, and has two children - George and an infant daughter. In 1866 Mr. Leimbach married Dora Brundau. To them have been born seven children, hut one of whom, Henry "William, is living. Mr. and Mrs. Leimbach are members of the Lutheran church.

Mon. Allen Lucas, section 32, Laenna Township, was born in Logan County, March 27, 1837, a son of Thomas Lucas, one of the early settlers of Logan County. He was reared and educated in Laenna Township, and from his early manhood has taken an interest in its material and social welfare. He has been an efficient worker in several official capacities. Since attaining his majority he has held some school office, at present being trustee. He has been supervisor ten years, and chairman of the board seven years; he has been assessor and collector one year each. In 1880 he was elected a member of the State Legislature, and while there introduced a bill in the interest of the Institute for Feeble-Minded Children, at Lincoln, which was substituted by Senate bill aild passed, and the appropriation made. Mr. Lucas was married August 14, 1856, to Judith E. Waddell, a native of Madison County, Illinois, born June 12, 1838, daughter of Thomas S. Waddell. To them was born ten children, but seven of whom are living - Mary P., Laura A., Emma C, Myrtice E., Minnie I., Thomas S. and Clarence E. Mrs. Lucas died January 30, 1877. April 3, 1878, Mr. Lucas married Margaret E. Hamilton, daughter of Daniel Hamilton. They have three children - George E., Estella M. and Allen T. Mr. Lucas has a fine farm of 280 acres, but makes a specialty of raising fine stock.

Peter Maus, grain merchant, Latham, Illinois, was born in Nassau, Germany, October 20, 1838. His father, Conrad Maus, brought his family to the United States in the fall of 1853, and lived in Peoria, Illinois, till the spring of 1854, when he came to Logan County, and is now a resident of Mt. Pulaski Township. Peter was educated in his native country, his knowledge of the

English language being obtained by his contact with the American people. He followed agricultural pursuits till November, 1882, when he located in Latham, and has since engaged in his present business. He enlisted in the war of the Rebellion in Company B, One Hundred and Sixth Illinois Infantry, and served three years, the most of his service being guard duty. He was married February 1, 1866, to Louise Zimmerman, daughter of John Zimmerman, of Mt. Pulaski Township. To them have been born seven children, but two of whom are living - Henry and Ettie (twins). Four children died of diphtheria within seven weeks in the fall of 1877 - a daughter, Annie, aged fifteen years ; Philip, aged nine years ; Sophia, aged seven years, and an infant. Mr. Maus was reared in the faith of the Lutheran church.

Edward Heese, a representative of one of the pioneer families of Laenna Township, was born on the old homestead on section 6, where he now lives, a son of John Reese. He was reared a farmer, receiving a good education in the common schools. He was married March 12, 1874, to Jessie Fisher, daughter of Samuel Fishei', of Belle Plain, Kansas. They have three children - Harry, Albert and Pearl.

Elder James H. Ring^ section 16, Laenna Township, was born in Lancaster, Ohio, July 27, 1840, a son of G-eorge Ring. He was reared and educated in his native county, working in his youth on his father's farm. When twenty-two years of age he was ordained a minister in the Old School Baptist church, and has since then devoted the greater part of the time to the work of the ministry. He came to Logan County in the fall of 1868, having lived one year in De "Witt and two in McLean County. He has been pastor of the Lake Fork church fifteen years, and at present also has charge of South Fork church, in Christian County, Bufi"alo Hart, in Sangamon County, and Lebanon, in Logan County. When he c^me to Logan County he settled on the farm in Laenna Township where he has since lived. He owns 200 acres of valuable land, and his improvements are among the best in the township. He was married October 16, 1861, to Mary J. Simpson, daughter of George Simpson. Of the ten children born to them eight are living - Charles, George, William, Thomas, Fannie M., Samuel, Grace and Nellie. Mr. Ring has served his township two years as supervisor, and one year as collector.

Komer, was killed in 1866, by falling from the sixth story of a building in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In 1855 our subject came to the United States, and when he had reached New York City had not money sufficient to pay the drayage of his trunk, and the drayman took it, and he was left in a strange country with no money nor friends. However he was assisted by a stranger to reach Philadelphia, where the day following his arrival he obtaimed employment. He lived in Pennsylvania three years, and then came to Illinois, and lived in Sangamon County till 1863, when he located on his present farm in Logan County. He has by hard work acquired a good farm of 134 acres, which is well improved, and his buildings are second to none in the township. Mr. Romer was married September 12, 1864, to Mary, daughter of John Bollin. Of the eight children born to them six are living - Joseph, George, Jacob, Herman, Anton and Agnes.

Oottleib Bommel, section 22, Laenna Township, was born in Wnrtemberg, Germany, December 17, 1825, a son of George Eommel. He remained in his native country till manhood, and in 1852 came to the United States, living two years in the State of New Jersey. In 1854 he moved to Illinois and lived two years in Jacksonville, and nine years in Sangamon County. He was a hard-working man and frugal, but was unable to save much frona his earnings and when he came to Logan County, in 1865, he had but $60. He located on section 22, Laenna Township, near his present residence, where he has been more successful, owning at the present time 240 acres of valuable land. Mr. Rommel was married February^lS, 1858, to Elizabeth Shue, daughter of Henry Shne. To them have been born five children; but four are living - Henry, Lucy, Minnie and Elizabeth. Mr. and Mrs. Rommel are members of the Lutheran church.

Christian Rupp, section 27, Laenna Township, was born in "Wnrtemberg, Germany, May 28, 1841. His father, George Rupp, brought his family to the United States in 1852, and settled in Logan County, Illinois, and is still a resident of Mt. Pulaski Township. Christian Rupp was reared a farmer, and his educational advantages were but limited, being mainly obtained by his own efforts. He has been a auccessful agriculturist, and now owns 200 acres of valuable land. He was married December 3, 1868, to Ida, daughter of "William Schweigckardt, of Lincoln, Illinois. Mrs. Rupp died March 10, 1885. She was an exemplary, Christian woman, devoted wife and mother and kind neighbor and friend. To Mr. and Mrs. Rupp were born seven children - Minnie, Katie, Sophie, Flora, Benjamin, John and Lula. Mr. Rupp and his family are members of the Lutheran church.

David Shelhammer, farmer and stock-raiser, section 6, Laenna Township, was born in Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania, August 5, 1830, a son of Jacob Shelhammer. He was reared in his native county, and after reaching manhood, in 1859, came West and located in Logan County, Illinois. He worked by the month for a time after coming to Illinois, and by economy soon had money enough to buy a tract of laud, to which he has added and now has 684 acres of valuable land, which is one of the finest farms in Laenna Township. He was married in 1868 to Delilah Downing, and to them have been born five children; but four are living - James, Sarah, Albert and Augusta M.

Andy Slinpson, retired farmer, Latham, was born in St. Clair County, Illinois, April 25, 1824, a son of "William H. and Rebecca (Kinney) Simpson, the former a native of England and the latter of Monroe County, Illinois. His mother was a daughter of Samuel and niece of ex-Governor William Kinney, and was often taken to the old fort at New Design for protection from the Indians. Andy Simpson was reared and educated in his native county, remaining there until twenty-six years of age. In 1850 he came to Logan County and lived one year in Mt. Pulaski Township. In 1851 he moved to Laenna Township, and in 1853 to Lake Fork Township, where he lived till his removal to Latham. He has a fine farm of 250 acres, all under cultivation, with good improvements. He began life for himself when thirteen years of age, and worked for $5 a month, and for several winters split rails at 50 cents a hundred. After reaching manhood he worked for $9 a month. His property has been made by hard work and good management. He has served his township as highway commissioner two terms and has twice been elected justice of the peace but refused to serve. He was married March 7, 1848, to Arminda Waddel), daughter of Andrew W. Waddell, an early settler in Madison County. Of the seven children born to them five are living - Minora, EmmittW., Laura J., Emma A., and Annie K. William A. died aged five years. Mary L. had reached maturity and was married. The family are all, save Emmitt, members of the Baptist church.

where he married, in 1822, Elizabeth Elston, born 1805, in Henry County, Kentucky. In 1825 they moved from Logan County, Kentucky, to Morgan County, Illinois, bringing three children and all worldly possessions in a two-wheeled cart. He worked about Beardstown, Illinois, a long time, and in February, 1830, with Eliiah Friend, came to Logan County, Illinois. Each made a claim, David Sims claiming the land on which he lived and died, and where he built, a few feet east of the present house, a cabin of logs, 12x14 feet. Into this, with only the ground for floor, a clapboard roof, and a hole cut in the side for a window, he moved his family in the spring of 1830. During the following winter, that of the deep snow, much hardship was endured by this pioneer family. His trusty rifle (which is still in the family) was their main reliance for food, and did effective work among the deer, turkeys and plentiful game of fifty years ago. During the summer he had cleared a " patch" in the timber, as he had no plow - and when winter came on found it a hard day's work to go to the farm of Geo. Girtman, "snap" a sack of corn and "tote" it home through snow waist deep. The corn was pounded in an iron mortar, as there was no way of going to mill, even had there been one. Hoads, bridges, etc., were not thought of. Springfield, then a log settlement, was their market, postoSice and county seat. For three years David Sims did not have a cent in cash of his own. A note of hand is yet in the family, given for 75 cents, which he borrowed to pay postage on three letters, which some one was good enough to loan on the security mentioned. His first plow was a homemade affair, with a wooden moldboard, and his first cart a fourwheeled affair, also of his own manufacture - had wheels sawed off the end of oak logs, a foot thick at the hub and beveled down to three inches at the rim. It was a good wagon for those days, though a terror to all animate objects when not greased. In 1846 he gave ten milch cows for a spoke wagon, valued at $50. Fat steers, weighing from 1,200 to 1,400 pounds, sold at $16, and all live-stock relatively low at this time. In 1838 his house and all contents was burned, and he then built the house where his son, D. H. Sims, now lives, it being one of Logan. County's old landmarks. Mr. Sims acquired a fine farm of 400 acres, reared a family of ten children and died February 19, 1880. He was aWhig and Republican, and a man of remarkably domestic habits. He made only one visit out of Logan County after settling in it, and for three

D. H. Sims, section 34, P. O. Latham, was born July 8, 1838, in the house where he now lives. In 1859 he went to Marshall County, Iowa, where he married, July 4, 1860, Ann Birks, who was born June 30, 1845, in Laenna Township, daughter of James and Mercy (Turner) Birks. D. H. Sims enlisted in 1861, in Company II, Thirteenth Iowa Yolunteer Infantry, an,d served five years as a brave and faithful Union soldier. Fought at Shiloh and the sieges of Corinth and Vicksburg. Was about six months in General Sherman's secret service. At Meridian, Mississippi, he entered the Confederate lines in the guise of a "historian," producing letters, passes, etc., purporting co have been signed by General Jos. E. Johnston. He worked his ruse successfully, secured the needed surveys and information, and re-entered the Union lines. For this daring work he was commissioned Second Lieutenant, and in Februaiy, 1863, was assigned to the Fifty-first Colored Volunteer Infantry. He saw much danger and was in close quarters, bullets cutting his hat, clothing and canteen. At the charge on Fort Blakely, Mobile, he was severely wounded by the explosion of a field torpedo, which killed twelve men of his company. His left thigh was broken and ankle injured. After the war he was three years in mercantile business at Maroa, Illinois; then a year in business and cattle trade at Pilot Point, Texas. Has since resided on and now owns the Laenna homestead. Is a practical surveyor, and had four-years experience in Northern Texas. Politics, Republican. Has three children - Clara May, Myrtle E. and David Benjamin. Two brothers of D. H. Sims, namely, B. F. Sims and John Sims, were in the Union army during the Rebellion, the former dying at Memphis, Tennessee.

Erhard Stoll, section 9, Laenna Township, was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, December 2, 1842. In 1846 his father, Erhard StoU, brought his family to the United States and lived a year in Springfield, Illinois. In 1847 he moved to Logan County, and settled in Laenna Township, where he died in 1860. Erhard, Jr., was reared a farmer in this county, and here obtained his education in the common schools. He is one of the prosperous citizens of the township, having a good farm of 185 acres. He makes a specialty of stock-raising, and has some of the finest animals in the county. He has always taken an interest in all public enterprises, and has held different official positions of trust and respon- sibility. He was married January 26, 1865, to Annie Mayers, daughter of John Mayers, an early settler of Mt. Pulaski Township. They have eight children - Elizabeth, Sarah A., Mary, Annie, Emma, Frederick, Charles E. and Henry.

Matthew Stoll, section i, Laenna Township, was born in the Kingdom of Wurtemberg, Germany, March 6, 1844:, a son of Erhard Stoll. He was reared a farmer, a vocation he has always followed with success, and now owns 340 acres of valuable land. He pays special attention to stock-raising, his cattle being of the improved grades. Mr. Stoll was married February 11, 1868, to Mary Gelbach, daughter of Jacob Gelbach. She died in October, 1873, leaving two children - Jacob and Cicilia. March 30, 1875, Mr. Stoll married Christina, daughter of Jacob Voile, of Springfield, Illinois. They have had four children, but three of whom are living - Minnie, George and Frederick. Mr. and Mrs. Stoll are members of the Lutheran church.

Alfred S. Tomllnson, farmer, section 18, Laenna Township, is a native of this township, born April 12, 1842, a son of Isaac Tomlinaon, an early settler of Logan County, now of Mt. Pulaski Township. He was reared a farmer, and educated in the Mt. Pulaski schools, remaining at home till the breaking out of the Eebellion, when he enlisted in Company D, One Hundred and Sixth Illinois Infantry. Since his return home he has engaged in farming, and now owns 160 acres of valuable land. In politics he is a Republican. He was married October 18, 1866, to Lucy C. Wils )n, daughter of Hiram Wilson, an old settler of Logan County. They have four children - Arminta M., George A., Walter L. and John M.

Matthew 2. Vaughan, section 24, Laenna Township, was born in County Tyrone, Ireland, June 8, 1828. His father, Joseph Yanghan, brought the family to America in 1833, and settled in Centerville, Bourbon County, Kentucky, and in 1846 moved to Cynthiana, Harrison County, the same State. Matthew was reared and educated in Kentucky. In 1855 he came to Illinois and lived in Sangamon County ten years, and in 1865 came to Logan County. He is by trade a mason, and works at it in connection with farming. He owns 320 acres of valuable land, and his improvements are among the best in the township. He makes a specialty of raising horses of the Clydesdale-Lexington breeds, and has some of the finest stock in the county. He has always taken an active interest in all enterprises of public benefit, and has held several official relations, snch as township clerk, assessor and collector, and school director. Mr. Yaughan was married July 29, 1849, to Maria A., daughter of Hamilton Casey. To them have heen horn eight children, but three of whom are living - John M., George W. and Mollie A. John married Nancy Elizabeth Curry, and has three children - Cora, Frank T. and Carrie.

George Weller, farmer and stock-raiser,' section 27, Laenna Township, was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, April 20, 1832. He was reared in his native country, and when a young man, in the spring of 1852, came to the United States and settled in Broadwell Township, Logan County, Illinois. He was a poor young man when he came to America, and at first worked by the month, but by frugality and good management saved his wages and has acquired a fortune, having now 840 acres of the best land in the township, and is one of the most prosperous and influential farmers of Logan County. He was married in 1863 to Elizabeth Brooker, and to them have been born six children, four of whom are living - Annie, Kate, Louise and Henry. Mrs. Weller died in 1878. Mr. Weller is a member of the Lutheran church. In politics he afliliates with the Democratic party.

William E. Williams, section 2, Laenna Township, was born in Oneida County, JSfew York, May 3, 1840, a son of William Williams, a native of Wales. He was reared in his native county, attending the schools of Whitestown. He came West in 1857 and located in Logan County, Illinois, where he has since lived. He has devoted his attention to agriculture, and now owns a fine farm of 165 acres. He also owns an interest in the ^tna Tile Works near Chestnut and a general store in Chestnut. In the war of the Rebellion Mr. Williams enlisted in Company E, One Hundred and Sixth Illinois Infantry, and served until the end of the war, when he was honorably discharged, the most of his service being guard duty. He was married December 26, 1865, to Sarah E., daughter of William Donnan, of JEtna Township. To them have been born eight children, of whom six are living - William S., Benjamin F., John L., Priscilla A., Ruth L. and Rose A. Mr. Williams has served as highway commissioner one year, and director of his school district fifteen years.

George O. Yocom, farmer and stock-raiser, section 14, Laenna Township, was horn in Sangamon County, Illinois, December 2, 1847. His father, Stephen Yocom, was a native of Kentucky and a pioneer of Sangamon County. He was reared a farmer, receiving a common-school education in his native county, and in 1874 came to Logan County and settled on the farm where he now lives. He has been a successful agriculturist and stock-raiser, and owns a fine farm of 280 acres, all under cultivation, with a good residence and farm buildings. Mr. Yocom was married July 10, 1873, to Laura A. Young, daughter of Hiram J. Young, of Newton County, Missouri. They have three children - Clyde H., Claude M. and Jessie M. Mr. Yocom is a member of the Masonic fraternity and has taken the Knight Templar degrees.