Maine Township (part 1 of 2)

Maine Township

tivated, although smaller than some in adjoining townships. Pike Mazon Township, the soil here is exceedingly fertile, and corn and oats an- grown, the former being the principal crop. There is one shipping station for grain and stock in Maine Township, on the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad, which runs through it a little north of its center.

Owners Ok Land

Among those who have in recent years been landowners in Maine Township, many of whom still retain their holdings, are: Winlield Rogers, II- M. Mill, D. Gilchrist, Margaret McKinley, Charles Barsdorf, James Wills. George Bridel, Benjamin Crisler, Milton Button, Henry Cassiugham, Jonas Walters, August Knehnel, C. C. Easton, Fred Vdams. C. .1. Wing, George Barrett, s. C. Stough, L. II. Halmyer, Frank Pickle, E. L. Allison, W. P. Jenkins, M. J. Adams.' E. C. McGill, Alfred Wallen. Henry Pull. Emit Bosnian, George Stewart, W. G. Sanford, Chris Thompson, M. Anderson, Thomas Reay, Robert Keay, Fritz Wallin, A. Jackman. Robert < ; l.-isgow.

The Wilmington Star Coal Company also owns property in tin's township. It is one of the few coal companies still operating Grundy coal land, although a) one time it was believed that this section would rival some of (he most productive regions of the country in the mining of coal.

The men who have served Maine Township as supervisors since the organization of the township have been: J-;. II. Robinson, 189S-1S99; Milton Button, 1900-1905; Leon J. Dujaric, 1906-1914.

Maine Township is one of the comparatively new sections of Grundy County, having been laid off March 7. 1898, and as il lies between Braceville Township and Mazon Township, its early history is the same as that of the two from which it was taken. It is hounded on the north by Goose Lake Township, on the east by Braceville Township, on the smith by Garfield Township, and on the west by Mazon Township, and is a part of Congressional Township 32 north, Range S, east of the Third P. M.

Chapter Xxxiii

WEDDING - ADDITIONAL SETTLERS - INADEQUATE TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES - THE HALF WAY HOUSE - A DEPLORABLE ACCIDENT - MANY TRAGIC OCCURRENCES IN PIONEER TIMES - GRADUAL SHIFTING OF BUSINESS TO Cl.NTKRYlI.I.E. NOW MAZON - ORIGINAL SITE STILL OCCUPIED - TIIJD FACTORY - CREAMERY MAZON VILLAGE - INCORPORATED UNDER STATE LAW IN l.S'.I.J - MUCH PUBLIC SPIRIT SHOWN GRUNDY COUNTY AGRICULTURAL ASSOCIATION - MASONIC HALE OPERA this obstacle, as it lias so many others, and the good, strong black muck of the soil has made as good land as there i~. to he found in the county. Six water-courses, running about a mile apart, in a genera) parallel course, mark the township, Waupecan Creek, Johnny Run, Murray Sluice and the west fork of the Mazon, Brewster's Sluice ten or twelve miles, long, and Wood's Bun. all now insignificant streams, although during the early days, when augmented by the spring rains and freshets, they often overflowed their banks and united, forming a broad lake from six inches to two feet deep.

The principal bodies of timber, which were to be found along these streams, were known as Wauponsee Grove, Johnny Grove and Owen's Spring, on Section 24, but these tracts have been largely cleared. The agriculturists devote the major portion of their attention to the raising of corn, although stock-raising is also carried on extensively, and a part of the grain grown is fed to the cattle.

Located practically in the center of Grundy County, Mazon Township and the city bearing the same name have also combined to form a center of commercial and agricultural activity. From earliest times this section has had an Important part in the history of the county; here have occurred incidents which furnish all the elements of romance; here is to lie found material for a work of fiction and adventure. From the days when the sturdy pioneers for weeks at a time subsisted largely upon a diet of fried slippery elm bark, to the present, when Mazonites enjoy every attainable luxury, the progress and development of this locality has been consistent and sure.

Mazon The Indian Name For Nettle

During the early days the plant known as the nettle was to be found in great numbers on the rich timber bottoms of this section, and the early settlers and Indians used its tough fibre for twine and coarse thread. Accordingly the stream, a branch of which crosses a corner of the township, was named the Mazon, this being the Indian name for nettle, and from this the township and city were named. The general surface of Mazon Township is exceedingly level, there being at first hardly enough variation to afford drainage for the surplus water, but the ingenuity of man has overcome

Early' Prospectors And Settlers

A. K. Owen, who began the first settlement of the Township of Mazon in 1S33, came into the present locality of Grundy County in company with John Hogoboom, Dr. L. S. Bobbins, and others, on a prospecting expedition, and to them the county is indebted largely for its early development, lie chose a site on the west fork of the Mazon Creek, a little below old Mazon Village, in the spring and summer of 1S33, and in the following year came James McCarty, who took up his residence upon Wauponsee's small corn patch consisting of three or four acres, located on section 5. Jesse Newport came next, from Belmont County, Ohio, and secured a tract on the southwest corner of section 6, and during the same fall James C. Spores built a cabin on the east half of the southeast quarter of Section o. In the spring of 1S35 James B. Ewing came to Mazon and built his cabin on the northeast quarter of section 6, but the land was too swampy, his crops did not flourish, and, becoming discouraged, after two or three years (during which time he also followed at times the trade of shoemaker) he sold his land to Jesse Newport. John B. Pickering, who bought out Spores, was a Quaker from Belmont County, was one of the early office holders of the county, where he lived for many years, and the marriage of his daughter Sarah to Gales Austin,

About the same time that Mr. Ewing arrived came John Ridgway, purchasing land on the northwest quarter of Section 5, where he erected a log cabin. He was followed by David Spencer, and in the fall of 1S35 came a lawyer, Augustus IT. Owen, from New York, the first of his profession, in the county. Finding no demand for his services, the latter removed to Ottawa, and subsequently met an accidental death by drowning in Rock River.

During the summer of 1835, there arrived in Mazou Township, J. C. Murray, of Oswego County, N. Y., who subsequently became the grandfather of L. R. Murray, the substantial merchant and talented editor and poet of Mazon. J. G. Murray was a brother-in-law of A. K. Owen, upon whose representations he came to Mazon, in order to secure opportunities for home-making for his growing children. After forty-nine days on the water he reached Chicago, with his two new wagons filled with household effects, but with no teams, and accordingly left his family at that point and continued on alone to Owen's home. The brothersin-law, with Mr. Owen's team brought the family in from Chicago, and when Mr. Owen went to Hennepin, Mr. Murray rented the farm for a while, but later went to the old Chicago and Bloomington trail, near the Murray Sluice, on Section 33, his cabin being known as the "Half Way House," as it was situated about an equal distance from either end of the road, sixtyeight miles. One of the early houses to be built out on the prairie in Mazon Township, it had no floor save the bare earth, and a blanket was used for a door until a board could be found which was sawed and spliced.

As affording an illustration of the accidents that were all too frequent during the pioneer days the death of Mr. Murray by drowning in Johnny Run. in June, 1S44, is recorded. Having been impaneled for the Grand Jury, in session at Morris, Mr. Murray was the guest of Mr. Armstrong, the well known pioneer boniface, and when the latter found himself without meat for the morning meal, Mr. Murray volunteered to go to his home and get several pieces of smoked meat. He returned to his borne in safety, but on his return missed tbe ford, probably because of a freshet, and was drowned. This was but one of the accidents which so frequently occurred at an early day. but they were not confined to Mazon Township. Each locality experienced such occurrences. Xor in other ways was Mazon greatly different from its sister townships. The nearest postoffice was first at Ottawa, then Dresden, and later at Morris; while the nearest mills were those at Dayton, Wilmington and Milford, or Millington, and these were often inaccessible mi account of the frequent overflowing of the streams. Numerous incidents regarding these days have come down to us through the pioneers, and while many of these have to do with experiences that bordered on and often iuvaded the tragic, still there is to be found a strain of humor in all.

It was thought during the early days that the advent of the canal would have no appreciable effect upon the traffic of the Bloomington and Chicago road, but this traffic gradually died out. Charles Huston, who had come from Syracuse, X. Y., in 1S45, in 1S4S purchased land of McKeeii, and laid out forty acres in streets, squares and lots. A .store was started by a Mr. Hall, of Ottawa, was subsequently sold to William B. Royal, and when business became poor a co-operative company was formed, but this also failed, passed into private hands, and went out of existence in a fire in 1S.">4. A building was later erected by a temperance society, which rented the under part for a store, but this met with little success, as the industrial activity was moved to the "center," or Centerville as was the old name. The coming of the Pekin. St. Louis & Chicago Railroad stimulated business, but moved it to the vicinity of the depot, at Mazon. which was for a time prefixed by '"New" to distinguish it from the original Mazon. The new village was originally platted as Mazonville, but is now known as Mazon. The old site is still tlu home of seven residences, the schoolhouse, and what was known as the "common." Near it is Condon's Tile Factory, built since the removal of the business life to the site of the depot.

A venture which is worthy of mention, as it did much to assist in the growth of the village, was the creamery which was established ;it the Miller cheese factory in 1SS0 and in the following winter was brought to the village and located in a building of its own. This business was built up to a considerable extent, until it had a capacity of 1,100 pounds of butter per day, and in the neighborhood of thirty thousand dollars was expended annually for milk alone. However changing conditions made it unprofitable, and it has passed out of existence.

Today the visitor to Mazon leaving either a Santa Fo or Big Four train sees spread before him a de ln.ro edition of an Illinois village. Every one of the 323 houses of the village is neat appearing, while many are artistic and several pretentious. If there is poverty in Mazon it is cleverly hidden, for its people look happy and prosperous, its buildings are substantial, its streets well kept and its affairs in an ideal condition. Surrounding the village are many acres of as rich land as can be found not only in Grundy County, but any other section of the state, and its corn and stock shipments are exceedingly heavy, but are taken up under a separate chapter.

Public Spirit Shown

Mazon was organized as a village in 187G and now has a population of about five hundred. It was incorporated under the general state law in 1895. The aim of the village is not to unduly inflate its population, or to bring to it residents who might prove undesirable, but to develop inside resources and maintain a high standard in every respect. It possesses a number of men of more than ordinary public spirit, among whom are: William Carter, .7. F. Burleigh, now deceased. F. A. Murray, L. Ii. Murray, Isham Brothers, Walker Brothers. Misner Brothers, F. II. C'lapp, A. J. Campbell. Mr. Sproul, and others. These men were instrumental in organizing the Grundy County Agricultural Association and in building and maintaining the present Fair Grounds and buildings which arc admittedly the best in this part of the state. These men have given aid and loyal support to the home bank, organizing it into a national institution when occasion demanded. An opera house provides a place of entertainment, a moving picture performance being given there every Saturday night, while theatrical companies are brought to it from time to time. Lecture courses are also held in this house and it has an auditorium of which a much larger place than Mazon might be proud. Masonic Hall was erected in ISfto by A. J. Campbell, and in conjunction with him, O. II. Fuller, Z. Isham. George Preston, now deceased, and Matthew Johnson, called in a friendly way, "The Big Four," built the Mazon Opera House.

Business And Professional Men

Tlie leading business and professional men of Mazon are as follows: A. J. Bundy, grocer; A. J. Campbell, druggist; J. II. Campbell, dentist; F. II. Claiiii, secretary Grundy County Fair Association and president First National Bank: Charley Clements, butcher; James Condon, tile and brick manufacturer; William Drake, proprietor Cottage Hotel; John Miller, manager Public Telephone ; Dr. IT. B. Gilhourne, physician; W. .7. Grinnell, liveryman; T. F. Kelly, proprietor of elevator; Joseph H. Massie, restaurant; L. R. Murray, general merchandise; D. S. Small, postmaster; S. E. Strickland, general merchandise; Frank E. Davis, baker; George O. Wheeler, retired farmer; L. F. Worley, physician;. George Phillips, cigars and soft drinks; Mazon Hardware Co., Stevens & Jewett, proprietors; James Bray, restaurant; Dr. Dale Costello, dentist ; Economy Implement Co., Isham & Strong, proprietors; C. J. Larson, tailor; O. W. Weston, agricultural implements and repairing; Chris Hansen, blacksmith; F. Ilaag. harness making; Manning Jewell, barber, and T. F. Kelley and Son handle grain, feed and seeds.

The Cottage Hotel, surrounded by beautiful forest trees, is one of the striking features of Mazon. and although it is the only hotel there, its accommodations are such that, none other is needed. The history of this hotel is as follows: A hotel conducted by Charles w. Huston at the original Mazon, was moved to the new village about 1875, but it was destroyed by fire in 1SSS. It was rebuilt by Mitchell Isham at a cost of $4,500, and after several changes during which it was leased by Viner Bros., the present proprietor, William Drake, became the proprietor nine years ago. It is a very comfortable hostelry, well equipped, and its genial host and estimable wife are important factors in the life of Mazon. Mrs. Drake is a member of the old Isham family which has been such an important one in this part of the county.

Modern Improvements

Mazon is lighted by both gas and electricity supplied by the Public Service Company, the municipality having found it more economical to contract with this concern than to manufacture its own product. This method is followed by all the villages of Grundy County and many of the surrounding counties. Some of the streets are paved and concrete .sidewalks have been laid, both of which add to the beauty of Mazpn and the comfort of its people. It. is claimed that over one halt' of the householders of Mazon own pianos and that there are over fifty automobiles in the township.

Large Industries

Mazon is not a manufacturing center, but owing to its shipping facilities there are two large elevators and a lumber yard locate. 1 here, all of which do a large business. The Mazon Farmers Elevator Company handles grain, seeds, lumber, coal and building materials. It is an incorporated company, with a capital stock of .$22,(100. and operates additional plants at Booth Station in .Mazon Township, and at, Gorman, just outside the township. The lumber company is now owned by the Mazon Farmers Elevator Company, hut for some years was operated under the name of I. X. R. Beatty Lumber Company. The beginning of this business lay in the formation of two separate concerns, one by Murray & Fuller, the Mr. Murray being the lather of Mr. L. It. Murray of Morris, and the other by M. S. Dewey. These two concerns were absorbed by the Alexander Lumber Company, and it in turn became the property of the T. X. R. Beatty Lumber Company of Morris.

The Knights of Pythias of Mazon were organized in 1893 with thirty-eight charter members and continued to hold meetings until the lodge had eighty or more members, but finally it was disbanded.

The Modern Woodmen of America was organized at Mazon, May 2. 1S91, as Woodbine Camp No. 7S9, and now is in a flourishing condition, having 150 members.

The Royal Neighbors of Mazon were organized as St. Valentine Camp Xo. 526 with twentyseven charter members, February 22, 1S9G. The camp now contains seventy members.

The Odd Fellows were organized in 1SS3 with a fair membership, but disbanded in 1S90. A social organization Known as The Cousins Club, grew out of meetings of members of the old Ishain family. Because of intermarriage some of the forty-five present members are not direct descendants of the founder, but all are in some way connected with the family.

The postoffice at Mazon was established at Mazon in 1S71, with a Mr. McAfl'ee as postmaster. This was when it was still called Centerville. O. W. Weston held the office for a number of years, and he was Pillowed by M. Isham, Charles Isham, Charles Huston, A. J. Campbell, Frank Randall, II. E. Pomeroy. The present incumbent of the office is D. S. Small, and be has two rural routes from bis office.

Newspaper History

The history of the press of Mazon is interesting. The Ma/on Register was founded in 1892 by Walter Dunlap, (he present proprietor and editor. This journal i-; an independent weekly with a circulation of about one thousand. Alvah Weston and ];. D. Fuller, two bright young journalists assist Editor Dunlap in making the paper a newsy organ that is in great demand in this neighborhood. Mazon also has a weekly trade journal, the Mercantile Co-Operator, established by L. R. Murray in March, 191.'!. It is designed for the retail merchants operating on the co-operative plan, and is endorsed by twelve wholesale houses, representing -1,000 merchants in a dozen states.

The dead of Mazon Township have been well cared for from the beLrinnim: of the history of this locality. The first cemetery was the old Murray cemetery which was begun in 1836, near the old Mover homestead. Following this a cemetery was opened at the original Mazon in 1S-10. The Wheeler cemetery, a little beyond the last mentioned, had its sod turned for the first grave in .about 1S45. This cemetery is on the present homestead of George Wheeler, and is admittedly one of the best cared for country graveyards in the state, and the best in Grundy County. A sum amounting to $3,000 was raised through Ihe efforts of a number interested in thus honoring the dead, am! the revenue from it is used to save from neglect the place where lie some of the pioneers of Mazon Township. As early as 1865, burin Is took place in what is now the Mazou cemetery, but it was not opened for public use until 1S70. About 1SS5 it was incorporated as the Mazon Cemetery Association, and at this writing there are contracts let for the erection of a substantial mausoleum by the same company which built the one at Morris. Aboul one hundred have been buried in the Mazon cemetery, and the grounds are beautifully kept, showing that the dead are not forgotten.

Religious Activities

The first Methodist religious meeting in Mazon Township was held in 1S44, and in 1S47, the society was moved to the original Mazon. The little house in which services were held was destroyed by fire somewhat later than 1850. A church edifice was built, and dedicated in the fall of 1855. In 1X70. a hoard of trustees was appointed to build a church at Mazon. hut it was not completed until the latter part of 187S. It cost $3,500. The Rev. R. J. Vandervoort is the present pastor, and the church lias 115 members. The church building was moved to its present site in 1S95.

The Congregational Grove Society was organized with seventeen members on May 6, 1SG4. After holding service at different residences. the society bought a lot in 1X70. upon which a church was built in 1871. In the meanwhile, during 1SS8, the Congregationalists at Mazon had organized, and in October. 1801, the two congregations united as the 1'ark street Congregational Church with forty-two members. The present edifice cost .$4,000. and there are 12-". members of this church.

The Primitive Methodists organized a society in 1877, and held services until 1888. when they disbanded. The building was used as a schoolhouse and for other purposes, now being a cabinetmaker's establishment.

There is no doubt hut that the first schoolhouse of Mazon Township was built in 1837 on Section 24. At that time it was regarded as the finest schoolhouse in the surrounding country and the best cabin in the settlement. Square in structure, it was built of logs, and its windows contained six panes of glass, an unusual luxury during those days. In spite of these windows the light was dim. and so close beneath, supported by pegs, were rough puncheons used as desks. The slab benches in front of these elude desks had no hacks and so the pupils could sit on them either facing the desk or the teacher as the occasion might demand. The floor of this first schoolhouse was made of riven planks and as it lay reasonably still when the bare feet of the little children trod upon it, it was regarded with great admiration by the community. The teacher of this first school was a Mr. Axtell.

Naturally, this first school was succeeded by others, and today Mazon is proud of the fact of having as fine country and grammar schools as can he found in the county, while the Mazou High School ranks with that at Morris. The schools of Mazon are treated of at length in another chapter. The Mazon Township High School was organized in 1004. and the present substantial building was erected in 1013, at a cost of $10,000. Prof. C. C. Shields is at its head, and has three teachers under him, while there are four grade teachers in the grammar schools.

Chapter Xxxiv Eastern Star Modern Woodmen Of

ory and many plum trees, while hazelnut bushes, with their wealth of brown nuts in season were found in profusion. A number of boulders indicate that the site of Morris dates back to the glacial period.

Located just half way between Joliet and Ottawa, and sixty-one miles southwest of Chicago, Morris commands a wide territory both as a source of supply for its shipping interests, and also as a field of operation for its merchants and manufacturers, and consequently a number of important business concerns are to be found within the city. The Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad, and two interurban roads propelled by electric power, one of which is in process of construction offer unsurpassed transportation facilities, and the shipping is very heavy from the country regions. Not only is the railroad utilized for freighting, but the urban roads and the river and canal are called into service as well.

The township of Morris was organized in ISJ9, it being one of the original number, in Grundy County' and it and Braccville both have a supervisor and assistant supervisor on the County Board, while all the other townships have but a supervisor.

The Mound Builders County Seat

Morris, situated in the township of that name, is the county seat of Grundy County, as well as the metropolis of that section. Aside from the record of the incorporation of the township, the history of this division is that of the city itself. The latter is on the northern bank of the Illinois River, twelve miles from the junction of the Kankakee and Desplaines ri.ers which form the Illinois. Nettle Creek passes through the city, while the Mazon empties into the Illinois River south of the public square. In addition to all these natural bodies o£ water, the Illinois & Michigan Canal runs between the city and the river, so that it is easy to see why pioneers early located in this section, so well supplied with navigable streams. While Morris itself is flat, just back of the city is considerable elevation that adds to the beauty of the scenery. At one time on the present site of Morris were mightv forests of oak and hiek-

With its location on the site of the old Indian village and cemetery, there have been found many traces of the Mound Builders in Morris and vicinity. There were found nineteen separate mounds, which, without doubt, date back to the time of those prehistoric people. The largest of these mounds is now leveled, but was located near the present Court House Square, and was 10 feet high, and 50 feet in diameter. Thousands of relics have been exhumed from these mounds and the surrounding prairies, including skeletons, and much surmise has been entertained over the origin of these ancient people. Some contend that they were the lost tribes of Israel whose fate has heen the subject of conjecture for centuries. From whence they came, however, they have passed away, and only the crumbling relics of this bygone age attest to their former existence. Where once these ancient people laid away their dead, stand business houses and the beautifully artistic courthouse, and the feet of the present alert generation press the soil once held sacred to their religious rites.

Morris Selected As Seat Of Justice First Building Ami First Resident

Co-incident with the movement for the organization of the county, to leave the Mound Builders and come down to more recent times, was that for locating the seat of justice at Morris. George W. and William E. Armstrong were the men who took the most active part in securing this distinction for Morris. The latter, recognizing the advantages the situation of the city on a site commanding such water facilities, secured the passage of an Act of Legislature which appointed Ward B. Burnett, Rulief S. Duryea and William E. Armstrong, a committee to act in conjunction with the canal commissioners to select a seat of justice for Grundy County. -Much discussion arose, but finally Section 9 was chosen, and April 12, 1S42, the plat of Morris was acknowledged by Isaac X. Morris, Xewton Cloud, r;. S. Duryea and William E. Armstrong. Having faith in the future of Morris. Mr. Armstrong moved his family from Ottawa to a cabin built by Cryder and McKeen for John P. Cbapin in 1S.34. This was constructed of logs and contained only one room, 1G x 20 feet, and yet in it Circuit Court was held, while it served as the meeting place for the people of the neighborhood. In 1S41, Mr. Armstrong and Mr. Chapiu laid out what. was called Chapin's addition to Morris, and it was also known as Grundyville or Grundy. In it Mr. Armstrong built and opened what was known as the Grundy Hotel. This same year, a petition was sent to the postoffice department asking for a postoffice, but the request was refused.

Name Adopted

In 1842, the matter of having Morris selected for the permanent county seat was again taken up, but dissention was had over the exact location. At last, in this year, as before stated, Section 0, was agreed upon, and after several names were suggested, that of Morris was adopted, in honor of Hon. Isaac X. Morris. Later, the county commissioners tried to change the name to Xenia, but as they could not agree upon bow it should be spelled, did not effect their purpose.

The little cabin occupied by Mr. Armstrong upon his settlement in Morris, was the first building in this city. John Cryder. for whom this cabin was originally built, was the first resident here. He was followed by John and Thomas Peacock, Englishmen, who built on Section 2, which is west of the present city, during tli.- latter part of 1S34. They bought the land in 1S35, married and reared families. Early in the spring of 183S, Peter (Iri^s built a log cabin on the present site of the aqueduct.

Other Early Settlers

In 1S41, James Xagle built a large log cabin on Section 3, and in it lie kept the archives of the county, until suitable housing was provided, for he was Clerk of the Hoard of County Commissioners. James Hart conducted the first saloon in Morris, having it in his house. Andrew Kinchella was another early settler of Morris, who developed a fine farm.

Anthony Horan, an Irishman, built, one of the first log cabins of the place. It was consumed by tire, and Mr. Horan was arrested, being accused of setting fire to it. Deputy Sheriff P. Kelly started with him for Ottawa, as there was then no jail at Morris, but. the prisoner escaped, and later fearlessly returned to Morris, but subsequently went to Pennsylvania. Perry A. Claypool built a cabin in 1S42, but after a year, Samuel Ayres dime into possession of it and kept a boarding house in it. Mr. Ayres was deputy sheriff and coroner at one time, but left Morris for Texas about. 184S.

To the pubic spirit of Mr. Armstrong, Morris owed its first courthouse, for he had built at his own expense, a frame building, in the winter of 1X11-2. This was put up on the northwest corner of the present Court House Square, and was 20 x 40 feet in dimensions and two stories in height. It was constructed of hardwood lumber, as there was no pine in the neighborhood, with oaken floors and siding. For this Mr. Armstrong received in all $350.06. Later, the building was lathed and plastered, making a total cost of $525.36, and this somewhat primitive building served every purpose until a substantial stone one was erected in 1856. The

Armstrong and .lames Mart who built that por- Aux Sable, near Morris, hut he tailed in operattion of the Illinois & Michigan Canal that runs ing il successfully,

Bartholomew McGrath was also an early settler of Morris, and built a number of the first morris incorporated buildings of the place, although he died in

James MeXellis came here in is 11. building and none against it. so August 22, 1S."0, an elecone of the first frame houses of Morris, which tion was held for village trustees, and those council, September 2, 1S50, E. P. Seeley was under their" charter. Those who had paid this elected president, and Henry Storr, clerk. The excessive amount to be ferried over, now threatentire business of the first meeting was coin- ened suit for extortion. Willi all this against prised in the following order: them, the three partners abandoned the project,

"Ordered that the jurisdiction be extended and the hoard of trustees of Morris did not over and embrace the following territory, viz. : attempt again to interfere. The southwest quarter of Section 3; southeast \'i of Section 4; north fr. of northeast work of the board of trustees V± Section !>: north fr. northwest Vi Section 10, and the following officers received appointment: A special charter was adopted May 2, 3So3, a constable, poundmaster, street commissioner, although no change was made in the name or fire warden, clerk and treasurer. Those to hold style, although the number of trustees became these otlices in order of their giving were: six. and the town was divided into three wards. George Gillett. Charles I.. 1'. Hogau, A. W. The First Ward comprised all south of Wash- Newel] and Robert Peacock, while Henry Storr. ington Street; the Second, north of Washingclerk, resigned, and Cap. Charles L. Star- ton Street, and west of Liberty; while the buck was appointed in his place at the third Third Ward was that portion lying north of meeting. Washington, and east of Liberty. The treasurer

The Legislature had granted a charter to have been very economical, for the entire cost William E. Armstrong to establish a ferry of operating the municipality for the first three across the Illinois River, on February 27, 1 S41 . years of its existence seems to he covered by Mr. Armstrong died, and the board of trustees, $100. Morris did not possess a seal until the being of the opinion thai with his death also spring of lSfi-4, and no finance committee was died the charter, passed a long ordinance rela- needed or appointed until January, 1S54. five to the license and running of a ferry. The existing charter of Morris was amended Col. Eugene Stanberry, P.ryon Stanherry and March 1. 1S54, by the General Assembly, and George II. Kiersted secured a charter permit- the first Monday in April was set apart as electing them to run a ferry from Morris across tion day. At the first meeting of the hoard the Illinois River for a period of three years, elected at the election following this provision. for which they were to pay $100 the first year; the following standing committees were ap- $101, the second year, and $104 the third year. pointed, the first to he given to Morris: Fi- A ferry rope was manufactured, and a flat- nance and claims, L. P. Lott : fire department. boat was bought, hut the ferry was in opera- G. W. Lane; streets and alleys. George Rurner; tion hut three days, when one lawsuit was health. David LeRoy ; judiciary, C. II. Goold ; started by George W. Armstrong, administrator and license. John Antis. By the time of the of the estate of William E. Armstrong. Mr. April election, lSuo, Morris had still another Armstrong received judgment. The receipt of charter, creating a Fourth Ward. this judgment opened up a new phase of the siting it a city, with a mayor, council, jx>lice magistrate and other city officials, and F. S. Gardner was the first major. In the spring of 1SG1, Morris received another charter, which was really a copy of the one in force at Chicago, but when it was submitted to the people, it was rejected by a large vote. In this election -140 votes were polled, tbe largest cast that far in the history. of the city. In 1SG7, the number of aldermen was increased to ten to meet tbe requirements of a newly created Fifth Ward.

Special Chaster Abandoned

In 1S77, the special charter under which Morris was operating was abandoned, and the city was organized under Chapter 24, of the statute entitled "Cities, Villages and Towns."

"All that part of the said city which lies south of the south line of Main Street, and east of Nettle Creek, shall constitute the First Ward.

"All that part of the said city which lies west of Liberty Street, south of the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad, not included in (lie First. Ward, shall constitute the Second Ward.

"All that part of the said city which lies east of Liberty Street, and between tbe south line of Main Street and the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad, shall constitute the Third Ward.

Morris Today

The Morris of today is entirely different from the group of houses clustered along the Illinois & Michigan Canal in the days when the forefathers of tbe present residents were laying the foundations for a solid structure that would endure, and bold tbe seat of county government as long as Grundy County maintains its present outlines. The center of business activity has receded from the hank-- of the canal to Liberty Street, and portions of Washington and Main streets that are adjacent, although the manufacturing industries have remained nearer tbe original site of the settlement. Stately trees line the residence streets, and give a grateful shade in heated periods, and a picturesque appearance at all times, even when their bare brandies are outlined against the winter skies. Well built sidewalks and paved streets have taken the place of dusty mads and make-shift paths, and electricity illuminates the night hours, as well as furnishes power for a number of the manufacturing concerns.

Placed where it commands instant notice and admiration is the stately courthouse, one of the most artistic in the state, if not the country, surrounded by a well kept lawn, and dominated by the towering monument erected in commemoration of the "Boys in Blue" who fought, aud many died for the flag that still floats over the city. The entire plan of Morris is artistic, the shaded streets, the green of the lawns, the soft shadings of the hous< colorings, while the handsome stability of the business blocks and public buildings is noticeable. The slogan of the people bore appears to have been, not bow cheap, but "how beautifully effective." and in their construction they have proven that ugliness is not necessary for usefulness, nor economy practiced by a choice of interior materials.

In addition to the courthouse square, Morris has an exquisite little park given to Morris when Mr. Chapin made his second addition to the city, with the understanding it was always to be used for park purposes. It is 265 feet square, and is kept in the condition so characteristic of the city, which is perfect in every detail.

Recreation'S Plentiful

Amusements are furnished the people of Morris through the church entertainments; a most excellent moving picture management ; various companies which play at the Empire Theatre, a well arranged bouse, capable of seating S00 people, and numerous social affairs given by home people. An enjoyable feature of the summer is the location in the city of some stock company which gives excellent entertainments in tents, presenting many of the new popular plays as well as old favorites. Tbe lodges also are not backward in catering to the entertainment of their members, while lecture bureaus send representatives during the winter seasons. Religious services are well attended, for the people of Morris are not content with enjoying merely material advantages, but seek to cultivate their spiritual development as well, and charitable movements receive generous sup- , port whenever started.

The city hall of Morris is a brick structure adjoining the waterworks, and contains the city oflices and the police and fire departments. The older portion, now the homo of the fire equipment, was erected in 1M',8, while the newer addition was built in 1910, to meet the necessity for larger quarters. During the period of reconstruction of the courthouse, some of the records and officials found temporary .shelter in this building.

When the i>eople of Morris were ready for cement sidewalks and streets, the administration gave them to them, there now being about six miles of the latter. With regard to the former, an ordinance was passed providing that the city would pay one-half of the cost of laying of the cement walks, the property owners to bear the other half of the expense. Many of the more progressive citizens have taken advantage of this, and in due time the brick tiling sidewalks still found in some places, will all be replaced by the more desirable cement ones, giving a uniform appearance to the city, which will add to its many other advantages.

Water Works

In lSOn, Morris secured city officials who favored the construction of an adequate waterworks system, and under the aide management of Mayor Dr. A. E. Palmer, and Aldermen U. C. Davis, Edgar Woefel, .T. X. Bunnell, .lames Derenzy, .7. W. Miller. James Cryder, William Wood and Marion Sharpe, experimental wells were sunk. In vindication of the policy of these gentlemen and their supporters, who were among the leading men of the city, the water was discovered to be of excellent quality. The city was consequently bonded to secure the necessary funds and in the fall of ivi... the water works constructed, and Hie mains laid, The original cost was about thirty-live thousand dollars, but additional machinery has been installed, and improvements made, so that a conservative valuation of the present plant would be $50,000.

Small Police Force

That the citizens of Morris are law abiding is proven by (he fact that only four policemen are required to maintain order. Chief Fred Armstrong is the day man, and in charge of the three men who are on night duty.

Fine Fire Df.Partmlnt

The volunteer lire department is presided over by Fire Chief T. II. Hall, who has twentyfive men, carefully trained, ready to respond to his call. The equipment which is one of the finest in this section of the state, and far surpassing any other in Grundy County, is valued at £20,000.

Hotels Excellent

It is unusual to find so many excellent hotels and restaurants in a city of the size of Morris where so many of the people own their homes. One explanation lies in the fact that .Morris is not only frequently visited by those having business at the courthouse and with commercial concerns located here, but also by those who desire to benefit by the famous Shabbona mud baths, or to enjoy the pleasures of rural life, amid distinctly urban surroundings. However, as it may be, the Commercial Hotel, the Washington Hotel (familiarly known as the Wagner House), the Carson House and the Kay House, all afford board and lodging, while the Saratoga Cafe, the Manhattan Cafe, Zimmerman restaurants, and others, furnish substantial meals.

The Carson House was founded by a connection of the Allen family, named Thomas Carson, and he was succeeded by two generations of his family. Several changes have taken place during later years. This hostelryis located just across from the Chicago, Rock Island & pacific Railroad Depot, and contains forty rooms, the proprietors thus being able lo accommodate a number of guests, especially tiiose who want to keep near the depot. The depot of the Chicago. Ottawa & Peoria Railroad, familiarly termed the Interurban, is within a block of it. Just across the street

The Commercial House, the largest hotel in the city, contains fifty rooms, and has ample lobby and parlor space. It is located on the corner of Washington and Fulton streets, and is conducted by Allen F. Mallory. This hotel was built in IS57 for store purposes, but in it was later held a Normal school. In 1SS0 Mr. Mallory bought the property, remodeled it, and since then has conducted it with the exception of a few years when it was in charge of his son-in-law, J. B. Hinds.

In 1S75 Conrad Wagner founded the Wagner House, which is still in the hands o^ his descendants, it now being conducted by his granddaughter and her husband, Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Harder. When Mr. Wagner died, his widow assumed charge, and carried on the business very efficiently until about 1910, when the Harders and Mrs. Hardens brother became the proprietors. A year later, Mr. and Mrs. Harder purchased Mr. Wagner's interest, and have since been the owners. There is a homelike atmosphere about this hotel which appeals to the traveler, and the cuisine is excellent. .Mrs. Harder being famed for her cooking and efficient management. This hotel is now called the Washington Hotel.

Morris Public Library

For many years the people of Morris discussed the desirability of securing a fund with which to found a library. A number of the residents had fine private collections of books and were very generous about lending them, and several attempts were made to start and maintain a circulating library by private individuals. A library was started in connection with the schools, but it did not meet the needs of the community. Finally enterprising citizens appealed to Mr. Andrew Carnegie, who, after the usual investigations and negotiations, donated $1,250, in 1012, and this amount was used to erect a substantial library building, artistically designed and furnished, which was opened December 5. 191.°), with a collection of 2,000 books. Under the law governing libraries of this class, the library board will have at its disposal a sum amounting to $l.S0O annually, so that the shelves will soon be filled with much wanted books upon various subjects. A well selected line of magazines are on the tables, and the librarian, .Miss Ethel Thayer, reports encouragingly regarding the growing demand for new books, and the development of literary tastes, especially among the young people.

Representative Business Men

Among the representative business houses and professional and business men at Morris may he mentioned as a partial list : Alio Abrahamson, buffet; William R. Allen, grocer; Angus & Son, grocers; T. R, Maimer, meat market; It. E. Bannon. music store; Dr. O. M. Barker, dentist; E. Bartoli, fruit dealer; I. N. R. Beatty. lumber; Henry II. Baum, dry goods; Berg & Dee. meat market; Frank Black, buffet; Blasingham & Caisley, real estate; A. c. Bliss, .Secretary Morris Cemetery Association; John L. Bonar, jeweler; E. C. Bowker, physician; R. R. Buck, proprietor of tile yard; W. ]-:. Bullard. dentist; Campbell & Fhalen, clothiers; C. <'. Carlon, milliner; Elmer W. Carlson, photographer; Coleman Hardware Company; E. D. Condon, cigar factory; Connor Brothers, meat market; Cronin Brothers, hardware; P. K. Cross, real estate broker; TJ. C. Davis, furniture dealer; J. B. Dawson, druggist; George It. Dix, proprietor feed store; W. E. Dix. lively and feed stables; W. O. Dix, books and stationery; E. W. Pike, of the Elite Millinery Store; O. Erickson & Son, dry goods; Erickson & Strong, grocers; Leonhard Eridacher, tailor; Farmers Square Deal Grain Company; Farmers & Merchants National Bank; II. M. Ferguson, physician ; II. W. Fessler, plumber ; Fey Shoe Store; Frank L. Flood, attorney; Farmers National Bank; Flynn Brothers, cigar factory; First National Bank; William Gebhard, of Morris Brewery; John T. George, proprietor of Manhattan Cafe; Rev.. A. C. Geyer; Walter Goode, garage; Gorham & Newport, general merchants; F. W. Graham, osteopath; Grundy County National Bank; J.

C. Carr; Philip Haitz, cigars and tobacco; Charles E. Hanson, attorney; Jacob Harder, proprietor of Washington House; A. G. Harrison, dentist; II. II. Harrod, grocer; A. II. Ililliker. insurance and real estate: Hills & Baker, druggists; B. C. Hitchcock-, plumber; P.

D. Hobson, laundry; W. I!. Ilolderman, grocer; John C. Horri'e, jeweler; W. J. Ilorrie, grocer; W. B. Hull, clothier; Hynds Brothers, dry goods and shoes; Thomas Hyiids ami Brother, cigar travelers accustomed to the greedy demands of factory: Illinois Foundry and Specialty Com- similar companies in less well governed cities. pany; D. O. Johnson, feed yard; Merman Johnson, tailor; \V. J. Jones, grocer; It. L. R. Kay, newspapers buffet; Frank J. Kelbel. horseshoer; Frank

Kindlestire, ice cream parlor; Phil II. Kohl. X<> history of Morris would tie complete withnovelty store; II. E. Kut/.. buffet; S. C. Lam- our a mention of its newspapers, for through son. sheet metal work; G. A. Leach, physician; them and the influence they have exerted, its n. W. LeRette, jeweler; .1. O. LeRette, buffet; improvements have been inaugurated and car- Louis Lowitz, cloaks and suits; Harry S. .Mack, riod through to successful completion, news depot; Essie Machey. grocer; C. Magner, Morris Herald - Although it has been issued Jr., grocery and market: .Morris K. Magner; under several names and has absorbed more Herman Manns, clothier: Fred Martin, baker; than one competitor, the Morris Herald is justly S. S. Marvick. real estate; The M.itteson admitted to be the oldest paper of Grundy Hardware Company; Israel Mayer & Sons. County. In 1S32, the cornerstone of this reliclothing; Alex \Y. Miller. The Model; Edward able organ was laid when .1. ('. Walters founded Moloney & Company, confectionery ; C. S. the Morris Yeoman and published it on a Moore, furniture and pianos; A. J. Neff. stoves Franklin press in an old adobe hut on Washand furniture; Carl J. Nelson, nickel plating; ington street, near the present Commercial Ole J. Nelson, insurance; A. R. Newport, hard- Hotel. Two years later the paper passed out ware; Northwestern Novelty Company, factory; of ids control, and the firm of Buffington and M. J. Olson, bakery; Gustaf Osbrink, bakery; Southard not only took- charge, but changed William T. Ostrem. jeweler; Page & Young, its name, issuing on July 29, 1S35, the first jewelry; A. E. and F. A. Palmer, physicians; copy of the Herald. Within a year. Mr. South- John 0. Petteys, law and real estate; I'helan ard purchased his partner's interest, and with & Hoganson, furniture and undertaking; J. A. the exception of a short period when Turner Ragan, veterinary surgeon; J. AY. Rausebi, at- & Perry had charge, issued the Herald until torney ; J. A. Ray, livery; Cornelius Reardon, 1S74. In that year lie disposed of the paper attorney; W. II. Reardon, sales barn; Reardon to the Hon. I'. C. Hayes, who soon thereafter & Cameron, meat market; Bernard Roth, baker. associated with him E. 1'.. Fletcher, a practical Charles G. Sachse, attorney: W. G. Sachse, printer. In the meanwhile changes were made physician; L. F. Simrall, attorney; A. J. Smith, in (he place of location, the adobe hut giving attorney; II. B. Smith, attorney; Sam Smith, way to quarters in a drug store conducted by physician; J. Wallace Steare, conservatory of a Doctor Gihson. Other changes were effected, music; Strawn Drug Company; F. II. Rwartz, until the present location was taken, but it is dentist; Frank Sykes. livery; O. J. Tasdall. singular that in all the years of its history the buffet; Thomas Teller, buffet; Bert Thorsen, Herald never moved from Washington Street. garage; C. C. Underwood, general merchandise; Governor Ray feels that the part played by the Wagener & Pool, druggists; P. T. Walsh, gro- Herald in the birth of (he Republican party. cer; R. E. Watkins, pool room; Weston & Sut- should not be overlooked or forgotten. With cliffe, implements; P. T. Whalen, buffet; Ros- other newspapers all over the country, it adcoe Whitman. . physician ; Woelfeld Leather vocated the principles that formed the first Company; James Wood, livery; William Wood. platform of that organization, and gave the coai dealer; X. II. Woolsey, milliner; Lizzie candidates of that party its earnest support. Zimmerman, restaurant; Dr. F. A. Palmer, In the meanwhile, Mi-. Southard could not forphysician; William Reardon; Rev. Aarrestad: get his love for Morris and its people. -and re- Rev. G. W. James: Rev. A. G. Harrison; Rev. turned within a year, prepared. to buy back his A. W. Carlson; Rev. W. C. Magner, D. A. beloved organ. Negotiations falling through, Matthews, capitalist, and a number of others ho founded the Advocate, with an entirely new who have retired from active life plant, and conducted it successfully until he While Morris has no street car system, the finally regained possession of the Herald, when place being too compact for its successful opera- he merged the two. In the meanwhile a daily tion. it does have an excellent taxi-cab serv- paper had been 'started, known as the News, ice, the charges of which are a revelation to but it was purchased by Hayes & Fletcher, and possession of it in October of that same year. The first cemetery of Morris was probably Since then, he has continued "its editor and a little plot in the vicinity of the residence of proprietor. For years the Morris Herald has R. M. Wing. Later another graveyard was been the organ of the Republican party, and opened on Nettle Creek, near the home of Judge the leader in politics in this locality. Hopkins. A third one was that on the farm Morris Gazette - On March 1. 1S78, a semi- of A. \Y. Teller on the west of the canal, east weekly journal, named The Independent, was of Morris. Still another cemetery was on the founded at Morris by Perry, Crawford and site of the old Catholic cemetery. The history Kutz, and continued to be issued for some nine- of the Catholic cemeteries will be found in conteen years, when it was taken over by Buck- nection with that of the Catholic church, furlin & Co. of Kankakee, and named the Senti- ther on in this article. nel. The Gazette was founded at Morris six

Olaf Huseby being the editor and publisher. On February 12, 1S53, the Morris Cemetery This newsy journal espouses the cause of the Association was chartered by the Legislature progressives, and under the capable manage- with George Fisher, George W. Land, Charles ment of Mr. Huseby is making rapid strides II. Goold, L P. Lolf and Eugene Fisher as inforward, corporators. On August 2."i of that year, the There were several other early papers of association bought five acres two miles east- Morris, now long since dead, one being the of Morris, from Thomas Peacock, and later Reformer, founded in 1ST2, by Joe Simpson, five acres from John Peacock, the two plots and conducted as a combined democratic and being joined by the St. George Cemetery, a plat greenback sheet until 1S7G, when it passed into given by a Mr. Peacock, an Englishman, for the the hands of A. R. Barlow. Later Mr. Simpson use of Englishmen only. The two five-acre regained the property, and in March. 1SS0, the plats, to which a small addition was made quite Morris Democrat was founded by Colonel recently, is known as Evergreen Cemetery, and Blackmore. This latter was a campaign pa- it would be difficult to find one that is a more per, and died during the thickest, of the political beautiful embodiment of that which is most fight. sacred and touching in the esteem in which sentiments are carved on the marble shafts which has ISO crypts and four separate famabove these departed ones who have become ily rooms, adds to the beauty of the cemetery, the articles concerning tie- townships in which Mausoleum Company of Chicago, and is exthey are found. The records regarding some quisitely designed and decorated. A number of are filled. Tn the cemetery aside from this general mausoleum, there are three family vaults, belonging to the Woefel, Goold and Hill families.

Aside from the Masonic order, which is treated of at length elsewhere in this work, Morris is the home of a number of organizations, some of which are mentioned below.

.Star Lodge, No. 75, I. 0. O. F., was instituted at Morris, by James T. McDougal, who is now deceased, lie was of Juliet and received a dispensation from the R. W. grand master of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, on October IT, 1S51. With him were associated I.. I'. Lett, E. M. Ross, O. S. Newell, and T. and A. II. Bishop. Some of the early members were: George W. Lane. Henry Benjamin. AY. S. Woolsey, Miles Gordon, and P. A. Armstrong. The present membership comprises 2-".."i active workers, and (he officials are: W. II. Brown, X. G. ; J. C. A. (loss, V. G. ; F. A Fay, secretary, and O. X. Barker treasurer. The order owns ils own building and the one adjoining it on Washington Street, in conjunction with the Knights of Pythias.

Knights Ok Columbus

Du Pontaris Council. No. 845, was organized February 26, 1904, with seventy-nine members, and was named for Father Du Pontaris, who was the first priest to read mass within the present Grundy County. The first chaplain of the order was the Rev. W. G. J. Mecham, and this office is always held by a priest of the Catholic Church. The first officers were: J. B. McCann. G. K. : Cornelius Reardon. D. G. K. ; J. \Y. llines. treasurer; P. T. Murray, recording secretary; J. E. Connor, financial secretary; E. Z. Sattler, chancellor; P. S. Carolan, advocate. This order has a present membership of 1-10. and its present officers are: P. T. Murray, G. K. ; Rev. J. J. Darcy, chaplin ; Arthur Griffin, treasurer: Louis Schorsch, recording secretary; Fred Gabel, financial secretary; Cornelius Reardon, chancellor, and Thomas Fitzgerald, advocate. Meetings are held on the first and third Tuesdays of each month.

Catholic Order Of Foresters

This organization has a membership of forty-five members, and is an older order with regard to date of establishment at Morris, than the Knights of Columbus. Both these orders, with others pertaining to the Catholic Church are taken up under another chapter.

Knights Of Pythias

The order of Knights of Pythias founded their Morris lodge, known as Castle Hall, No. ITS, in 18S7, with marked success. The present officials are: Charles Maunders, S. C. ; O. I. Meyer. V. C. : A. D. Martin. Prelate; II. D. Hitchcock, master of work; F. AY. Washburn, master of arms; C. G. Bonar, master of finance; Horace D. Herrod, keeper of records and seals; A. A. Braun, master of exchequer; George Corke, inner guard; and W. A. Petteys, outer guard.

Eastekn Star

Laurel Chapter of Morris was organized in 1SS9, Miss Jennie Bross being the first, worthy matron. Mrs. Mary Massey, first secretary, and John N. Burnell, first worthy patron. There were fourteen charter members at tint time. The present worthy matron is Mrs. Belle Root; Miss A. C. Bliss lias been its secretary since December 11. 1900, and John Pay is the worthy patron.

Modern Woodmen Of America

The Modern Woodmen of America at Morris received its charter in 1SS4, as Canokee Camp. No. 2S1, and its present membership is 200 members. The officers now in charge are as follows: II. J. Linden. V. C. ; James Jeffries, W. A.; H. B. Foster, clerk; and Cornelius Reardon. hanker.

The Lincoln' Club

On February 12, 1889, the Lincoln Club of Morris was organized, and incorporated March IS, 1904, originally as a political club espousing the principles of the republican party, but on February 5, 1912. the object was changed and the by-laws revised, so as to make it into a purely social organization with the following object: "This club is organized for the purpose of promoting good government, to develop the growth and spirit of patriotism, and to cul- tivatc friendly and social relations among the members, and to aid in any movement that means industrial and commercial progress and advancement of our city and the betterment of its citizens." The present officials are: M. N. Hull, president : Horace Herrod, secretary, and A. W. Buck, treasurer. The headquarters of the club are at No. 120 E. Washington Street. The club is under the direct control of the board of directors, now composed of the following members: E. E. Hume. W. E. Packed, H. E. Sparr, C. E. Hanson, C. E. Godfrey, G. W. Anderson, E. S. Hoge, F. T. Stephen, and F. G. Blassingham.

Morris Postoffice

The Morris postoffice is a second class office and does a business aggregating $14,000 annually. The present postmaster is J. II. Me- Grath, who was appointed September 24, 1013. One of the men connected with the Morris office, who died while in office, was Henry C. Claypool, who, at the time of his death, had heen in office for nine years. The postmaster who preceded Mr. McGrath, was Mr. W. C. Magner. There are six rural free delivery routes out. of Morris, and they and the business of the office are conducted admirably.

In Conclusion

Many features of Morris are taken up under special chapters, written by men thoroughly conversant with conditions, and interested in the proper exploitation of facts. In closing it is safe to slate that it would be difficult to find a city of its size in the country which offers so much that is agreeable and desirable as Morris. Delightfully located, adjacent to one of the finest agricultural regions in the United States, possessed of natural scenery and resources, it is yet within a few miles' ride of the metropolis of the West. Train schedules have been so arranged that it is possible for any one residing at Morris to go to either Joliet or Chicago for his daily business and return at night, or pleasure seekers can attend the theatre or social events in either city, and return home the same night. The air of Morris is delightful, its people gracious, courteous and hospitable, its manufacturing plants are flourishing, and its financial condition beyond cavil. To its . residents and visitors, alike, it seems like the "garden spot" of the world in which the serpent of evil has no place, and from which its present inhabitants have no idea of going, and to which new comers are arriving, brought here by accounts of others who have fared well at the hands of Morrisites.

Chapter Xxxv

The religious spirit at Morris is manifested in the maintenance of a number of religious bodies, some of these having substantial church and parish edifices. A history of a number of them is given in the attached articles, written by clergymen or prominent laymen connected with these organizations.

Baptist Churches

sionary in the employ of the Fox River Association. After two mouths of Elder Freeman's work, the conference agreed to call a council of brethren from other churches to meet with them on October 4, 1S54. Twelve members of the conference appeared at the appointed time and presented their letters, choosing Elder Freeman, moderator and John N. Freeman clerk, and passed a vote to organize themselves into a church, adopting the articles of faith published in the Encylopedia of Religious Knowledge, also the covenant in the same. The council met in the Methodist Church to take into consideration the propriety of organizing a Baptist Church. Resolutions were adopted that this council so extend the ordinary tokens of recognition and fellowship to the First Baptist Church of Morris, and the public exercises connected with the occasion were held in the Methodist Church. John N. Freeman was appointed church clerk, and Elder F. It. Freeman, pastor. Meetings were held every Sunday in the ballroom on the third floor of the old Prindle House, which had been fitted up as a private school. However, the little church lost its meeting place, for on Thanksgiving Day. November 30, 1854, the house was burned. This old hotel stood on the present site of the Commercial Hotel. At a covenant meeting held in the Methodist Church on December 2 of that year, a deep concern was manifested for the prosperity of the church, and the salvation of souls. The clerk, John Freeman, resigned and Joshua Lane was appointed to fill his place. From December to February, 1855, things remained at a standstill, there being only occasional preaching by Revs. Freeman and Childs. On February 5, 1S55, however, Elder W. O. Johnson of Michigan, received a call as pastor, and the church held meetings in the schoolhouse, afterwards known as the old Normal Ruilding. On June 3 the church sent a letter to the Fox River Association asking for admission into that body. At the annual business meeting January 4, 1809, the clerk reported that fifty members had been added to the church in the year just closed, making the number seventy-three, which was regarded as a cause for encouragement At that time the pastor received a salary of $100.

In 1S00, the Baptists secured permission to hold meetings in the courthouse. At a special meeting held August 25, 1SG1, it was decided to build a house of worship, which was completed and dedicated to the Eord on Sunday, February 0, 1SG2, the cost of the building and furniture being $2,932.40. The dedication sermon was delivered by the pastor, Rev. G. S. Bailey. On June 2S, 18GS, a pipe organ was put into the church at a cost of $72.n>,00.

In June, 1SSG, the Fox River Association changed its name to the Aurora Baptist Association, and was for the third time entertained by the Morris church.

During the summer of 1S99 the church was remodeled at a cost of .$4,500, making a beautiful edifice with all modern improvements, the work being done under the pastorate of Rev. B. L. Prescott, who not only did much to inspire the people, but also a larger portion of the practical work of rebuilding. The old pipe organ was replaced by a new one worth $1,500, $500 of which was donated by Mrs. John Hill. The church received a gift in 190G from the late William Urich, who left it $500 as a bequest in his will. The church has had in the history of its membership many true Christian people who have gone into other portions of the world and accomplished much good for the Master, among whom may be mentioned 1'rof. and Mrs. L. T. Regan and family, who went to Chicago in 1889; Mrs. Jessie Bartlett Davis, the noted singer, who was once a member of our choir.

In 1900, the parsonage was remodeled so that it is now a fine modern home worth $4,500, located on the corner of Jackson and Division streets. The Ladies' Aid Society has always been an active and helpful branch of the church, our able president. Mrs. Belle D. Jones, having held the office for seventeen years. We have at present one of the best ministers, both as to mental and spiritual endowments in the history of. the church, Rev. J. C. Richardson, who was a missionary and teacher in Burmah for six years, returning on account of the failure in health of both him and Mrs. Richardson, in August, 1010.

Catholic Chueches

The members of the Roman Catholic Church, so predominate in number as to constitute nearly one-half of Christendom, so that t lie establishment of a parish in any community is a notable event. Since its beginning, the Catholic Church has exerted a strong and elevating influence over its children, and their adherence to the teachings and authority of the church is steadfast. The priests in charge of these churches are men of unquestioned scholarly attainments and strong religious personality, and as their aim is to uplift their people, their position in any locality is one of strong influence along moral lines.

With the construction work of the Illinois and Michigan Canal through the county came many Roman Catholics, and, at the foot of Dresden Hill, near the canal, on Section Twentysix (20) in Aux Sable Township was erected the first Catholic house of worship in the county. At the site of that church there remains a fairly well cared for Catholic cemetery even at the present day, although the church edifice was never used later than about the year 1864, and the building, being a flimsy structure, soon thereafter went to decay. To this church first came Father Du Pontaris and he ministered to the wants of his people at regular intervals until about the year 1850 when he was succeeded by Father O'Donnell. Each of these two priests in his turn had charge of the Catholic people from Joliet to Ottawa, and. regardless of weather or road conditions, they made their regular trips on horse-back, meeting their congregations at the appointed times. The population increased to the westward of Dresden with the progress of the canal work. Those priests, together with other missionary priests, read mass in die homes of some of the Catholic people and later in the old wooden courthouse until the establishment of the Morris parish, which was established in the year 1852, with Rev. Patrick Terry the first pastor of the parish.

On September 23, 1ST)2. Father Terry received deeds from John McNellis and wife to the property at the corners of Jackson, Pine and Xorth Streets and erected on that property a frame building, which, with additions thereto, served the people of this parish as a church until the completion of the present brick edifice on the same property in the year 1867. Father Terry was succeeded in his pastorate by the Rev. M. Lyons, on July 24, 1S59, and Father Lyons was the parish priest until September, 1SG4. On this last named date Father Lyons was followed by the Rev. Thomas Ryan, and it was during Father Ryan's pastorate, which ended in 1SG9, that the present brick church was erected. The first mass was celebrated in this church (before completion) Christmas morning, 1S66. , Father Ryan was succeeded by Rev. J. P. Devine, whose pastorate ended May 30, 1S70. Then came the Rev. Hugh O'Cara McShane, and no pastor was more universally loved and admired by his parishioners, than was this then young priest. In IS74 the Rev. F. W. Smyth was assigned to the parish and he was followed by the Rev. Dennis Hayes in 1SS1, and he. by the Rev. John A. Hemlock from 1S83 to 1SS9.

Father L. M. Median was appointed pastor of the parish in 1SS0. The parochial school, which prior to that time had been conducted in the old frame building that once served as a church, was sadly in need of new quarters. In his endeavor to have erected a new parochial school building Father Median received a magnificent gift of money from Patrick Kenrick, an aged bachelor and one of the pioneer settlers of this county. With this gift from Patrick Kenrick and - the contributions of the parishioners, Father Median caused to be erected a magnificent two-story and basement brick building, at a cost of about fifteen thousand dollars. The first floor of the buildiug is devoted to school purposes and is known as the Immaculate Conception Parochial School. The second floor of the building was finished up as a ball, with a stage in the north end of it, and bears the name of Kenrick Hall. The building is of Gothic architecture, patterned after a Roman castle, and is an ornament to the city. While Father L. M. Median was pastor of the parish his younger brother, William G. J. Median, was pursuing his theological course and was ordained a priest, and after a short pastorate at Sycamore. 111., was transferred to Morris. 111., and Father L. M. Median went to Sycamore. On January 7, 1907, the pastorate of Father William G. J. Median at Morris ended, and Father J. .1. Darcy was appointed pastor of this church ami continues to the present time.

During the pastorates of Fathers Terry, Lyons and Ryan, the Morris parish had as out posts the Dresden Church, and after that the Minooka Church and the Highland Church, now Kinsman. To these outposts the pastors and their assistants went on alternate Sundays. The writer of this article was an "altar hoy" from ISO"? to 1S75, and as he was a better driver than other hoys lie was frequently called upon to accompany the priests on those weekly trips to Minooka and Highland.

Catholic Societies

The Knights of Columbus is. in numbers, the largest society in the Mori is church. Their council was named after Father Du Pontaris, the first priest who road mass within the present limits of the county. It has a membership of about, one hundred and forty members and takes an active part in all the work of the parish.

The Catholic Order of Foresters, consisting now of forty-five members, was established before the Knights of Columbus. There is a pleasant rivalry between these two societies in the doing of the good work of the parish. There is a court of the Women's Catholic Order of Foresters that can always he relied ujxjn to do its portion of the social work of the parish. Columbia Club, an organization of young ladies, makes a strong showing. The ladies of the Altar and Rosary Society vie with one another in their work of adorning the church and altars, and their efforts result in one of the neatest churches in the diocese.

No history of the Catholic Church in Grundy County, 111., would be complete without special mention being made of the name and good works of John MeXellis. He was a man of coarse exterior, who, in pioneer days accumulated a vast fortune, hut in the later years of his life met with severe reverses. In the days of his affluence he gave unsparingly to the church and religion of which he was a devout worshiper. The ground whereon is situated the church, parochial school and the parochial residence was a gift from him to the parish, and his cash contributions to the building and support of the church were in full proportion to his means. His gift of the beautiful square with the then large building on it to the Sisters of the Holy Cross, was prompted by the motive that all worthy children might receive an education thai would lit them for life and eternity, lie had no education himself and this fact no doubt had much to do with the generosity of his gift. Though of a rough nature he had a warm heart, and in his daily life and conduct set an example that might well he patterned after. He died October 24, lSs:>, at the age of seventy-nine years, four months, twenty-three days.

On the first day of March, 1S5S, John Mc- Xellis and his good wife deeded the block between North and Denton streets and Spruce and Fast streets to the Order of the Holy Cross, with the condition that there should he forever maintained on the premises a Roman Catholic school. The Sisters of this order thereupon went into possession of the property and have, to the present time, maintained a Catholic school for girls, and from this have graduated some of the noblest women that this part of the world has known. By their industry, the Sisters have added to the brick building that was on the property when they received it, until, today there stands a magnificent four-story structure where twenty-one Sisters are devoting their lives to the cause of religion and education, and there are regularly enrolled from (10 to 100 pupils. In 1908 the Sisters of this order celebrated the golden anniversary of the establishment of their convent. The present Catholic population of the Morris parish number about eleven hundred.

The second parish to be established in the county was that at Minooka, and its first pastor was the Rev. Sheedy. Its present pastor is the Rev. Joseph McMabon. whose pastorate has extended back over twenty years. A few years ago this congregation erected a. fine brick edifice that they are now using. The parish includes, besides the village of Minooka, a large Catholic population in the surrounding country.

Kinsman

Church and Rev. P. J. Gormerly was its first pastor. After the Village of Kinsman was laid out and incorporated the church building was moved about two miles southwest into the new village, but it soon proved too small for the needs of the people and they erected a brick structure which was later destroyed by lightning but was rebuilt and forms the present Catholic Church in that village. Rev. J. P. Greene has been the parish priest for many years past, and besides the Kinsman Church has Verona as an out-mission where the people of that vicinity purchased a frame church building about ten years ago, and to the Verona church Father Greene comes every second Sunday.

Coal City

The fourth parish established in Grundy County is that of Coal City and one of its first pastors was the Rev. Father De Paradis, a man of great musical talent and fine education. He was greatly beloved by his ixxiple and admired by all his acquaintances outside of the church. The present pastor is the Rev. J. A. Reuland.

The last parish organized in Grundy County was that at South Wilmington which was established shortly after the laying out of the village in 189S. The present pastor is the Rev. L. Donna. His congregation is largely made up of poor working men and their families, but their devotion to their church and God is not surpassed anywhere.

The Christian Sctence Society

The Christian Science Society at Morris originated as a church, being known as First Church of Christ, Morris, on August 24, 1904, with seven members. Later the number increased to nineteen, but in 190S, it was changed to The Christian Science Society, Morris. Having the requisite sixteen members, this society is entitled to a regular practitioner, who is Mrs. Annie M. Claypool, widow of the late lamented Henry C. Claypool, who, in her life, demonstrates beautiful traits of character which aside from her religious belief, exert a strong influence for good upon the community. The present first reader is Miss Emily Bingham, and the second reader is Mrs. Clara L. Gorham.

Congregational Churches Missionary Work At Morris In 1S4.6

The first Protestant Church work done in Morris, began in 1S40, under Rev. James Longhead, a Congregational minister, who was sent to the community as a missionary of the American Home Missionary Society. A Sunday school was at once organized, and Mr. Loughead, who was doing missionary work in different parts of the county, preached once every four weeks to a small company in the village of Morris. The school continued as a Union Sunday school for about, two years, and while there was no church organization, it was known as the Associated Congregational Church of Morris.

First Congregational Church Organized

In May. 184S, steps were taken toward organizing a regular Congregational Church, and several meetings were held in order to complete the organization, and on Sunday, July 2. 1848, the church was fully organized with twelve members, representing four denominations: Congregational, Presbyterian, Methodist and Episcopalian. Meetings were held in the old courthouse, which stood in what is now the front yard of the present courthouse. Reverend Longhead continued as pastor until April, 1S49. In January, IS-jO, Rev. A. W. Henderson was elected pastor, and served the church three years, bringing the membership from twenty to sixty-two.

During 1S51 the first church building was erected, on the corner lot where the present building now stands. It was a small, wooden structure, 45 by 24 feet. During the time the building was in course of construction, services were held in a small hall on the second floor of a two-story building on the southwest corner of Washington and Wauponsee streets. During 1854, while Rev. W. A. Baldwin was supplying the pulpit, the building was enlarged and the church became self supporting. Toward the close of 1854, Rev. E. B. Turner commenced his ministry to the church, which continued ten years. Four seasons of special religious interest were enjoyed during Mr. Turner's lalwrs, occurring severally in 1S55, 1S5G, 1S5S and 1SC1.

The building was again enlarged in l$r>7. In the early part of 1S65, Rev. William Lloyd way chosen pastor and under his ministry the present magnificent structure was built, at a cost of $25,000.00.

Mart Faith Fox Pastors

In 1S69, Rev. AV. A. Smith was called to the pastorate, and remained three years, and after his departure, Rev. J. A. Montgomery was called to the field and served the church eleven years, being the longest pastorate in the history of the church. From 18S4 to 18SG, Rev. C. L. Corwin was pastor, and was followed by Mr. R. W. Farquher, a student, who was ordained soon alter entering upon the work as pastor. Following the three years' service by Mr. Farquher. Rev. C. EL Bissell was called and remained three years. In April, 1S91, Rev. C. C. Warner was called, and preached until 1S05. After six months supply by Dr. Anderson, Mr. P. D. Tucker, a young man engaged in mission work in St. Louis, was invited to take charge of the church, wheh he accepted. Mr. Tucker was ordained during his first year in Morris, and continued with the church three years.

In the fall of 1900, Rev. T. S. Oadams was called, and occupied the pulpit two years and six months. Rev. George A. Swertfager was pastor from October 1, 1003. to May 22, 1905. and Rev. J. A. Smith supplied the pulpit during 190G.

Rev. G. W. .Tames, the present pastor, has been with the church since the first of April, 1907. In 1907, the church came into possession of a fine parsonage, the gift of Mrs. Louise Keller, who left her spacious home to the church of her choice. The church has one of the finest pipe organs in the county, and many improvements on the church property, made in recent years, have increased its value.

Methodist Episcopal Church

The first protectant preacher to lift his voice for the Kingdom of Christ at Morris, was a Methodist. His name was John F. Devore, of the South Ottawa Circuit, and his first appearance here was in the winter of 1S42-3. He was a tall, slender, somewhat awkward young man, with a heart burning with hive of the work of God. It was his first year in the ministry and what a charge lie had. It extended from the other side of Ottawa to what is now Sam Holderman's farm, west of Morris. Mr. Devore opened his work by holding meetings in the courthouse, preaching every four weeks. He found Morris a hard field and made but little or no headway, and so, becoming discouraged, resigned, lie also introduced Methodism into W'auponsee and Aux Sable townships, that same winter of 1842-3.

The next effort to found a church was made at Morris by a Mr. Humphrey, who, like his predecessor, was a preacher in charge of the South Ottawa Circuit. He made his appearance in January. 1S4G, hut there were few to respond, and he also left after finding things in a discouraging condition.

Some time after this followed a man by the name of Alonzo Kenyon, also of the South Ottawa Circuit, and he fared somewhat bettor, succeeding in organizing the first Methodist Class at Morris, and preached in the courthouse once a month. Then came Rev. J. W. Flowers, in 1S49, at a time when Morris was attached to Lisbon, the two places becoming a circuit, and Mr. Flowers was its first regular preacher. He was a successful organizer, and under his able leadership, the society grew so rapidly that in 1S50 steps were taken to erect a church building. Within a short period, a structure was erected at the corner of Kiersted and Jefferson streets, and was then considered the finest church in town. In August of 1S50, Morris became a station with a settled pastor, and has so continued ever since.

Thus what seemed at first a difficult and unpromising field for the growth of Methodism, turned out to be one of the most fruitful. Indeed, so fast did the society grow, that after eighteen years spent in the original church, it was decided to erect a larger one. and in 1869, plans were made for a new structure on West Jackson Street. This new building was completed in 1871, the members of the official board of the church at that time having been: A Kirkland, L.. Rockwell. J. W. Fatham, W. Stage. H. C. Longacre. S. Noble, Joseph Hicks, William Stephen, and the pastor then in charge. R. R. Bibbins. The cost of the new church was $12,000. On the night of August 13. JS78, this building was struck by lightning and entirely destroyed by fire with the exception of the brick walls. Immediate action was taken to rebuild, the following trustees having the matter

The original membership was sixty-two, and |)reacJed >»* farewell sermon May 29, 1802, heat the end of the year 1S7G, ninety-seven souls ing the sixth Suuday after Easter, belonged to the church. The present member- Aftci* a vacancy of eighteen months Rev. T. ship is: souls 290, confirmed 205, voters 65. Aarrestad, the present pastor, was called and The average attendance of worship is about one accepted. He was installed by Rev. N. J. hundred and twenty-five. The enrollment of the Lockrem on the 2Cth day of November, 1S93. Sunday school is thirty-five, with a teachers' Rev- Lockrem had charge of the work during force of six. tlle vacancy. Occasionally representatives of

When the congregation was organized it was still with us. Among these we may mention found necessary to get a house of worship as Wier Pedersen and John J. Enger. The majorsoon as possible. The work of building a church ity of the older settlers were born in Etne and was started in 1S70, and a neat and spacious Skoanevek, Norway.

laymen in the construction of the church were: On the 6th day of July. 1SS0, a very small Austin Osmon, F. Melby, S. P. Carlson, S. Norwegian Lutheran congregation was organ- Bakke, Henry Hansen, John Thorson, A. C. ized in Morris. 111. The original members were: Johnson, S. Marvick -and Thomas Ostrein. The Mrs. Anna Kndresen and her sister, Mrs. Susan church was dedicated on April 12, lsoo. Rev. Arinbruster, both of Tjeldberg, Norway; Miss <;. floyme, president of The United Norwegian Anna Samuelsen was also one of the original Lutheran Church of America, preached the dedimemhers: and Mrs. Armbruster had three ehil- catory sermon. Other ministers present were: dren. The original membership there were six !'- J- Reinertsen, Gardner; J. H. Stenberg, Lesouls, all told. The name of the congregation hind; X. J. Lockrem, Norway; L. A. Vigness, was "Skandinavin Evangelical Lutheran Church Ottawa, 111.; L. S. .Marvick, Ilolton, X. J., and of Morris, Illinois." "Skandinavia" was changed T. Aarrestad. Morris, in. in the evening to "Bethlehem" in 1902. At the time of organ- Revs. L. S. Marvick and A. C. Anderson of ization very few Norwegian families had set- Bethel Church. Chicago, preached. The lot and tied in Morris. Some of them had already building cost about seven thousand live hundred identified themselves with other churches, dollars. There was a heavy debt on the propothers did not care to belong to any church. A erty until January. 1!!02, when owvy cent was number of Swedish families lived in Morris at paid and the church improved. It was rathe* that time, and Swedish preachers began to visit hard work to keep it going with a heavy debt the town. These were not Lutherans. When besides 'current expenses, but the Ladhis' Aid the Norwegians who went to hear them found Society was a great help in those days. At that that they were baptists they severed their con- time it was almost impossible to help in general neetion with them. Being very few, it was a missionary work; but since the debt was paid brave deed. They were not afraid to show the congregation and the different societies have their colors. riven money to missions and charitable institu- Sonie time later these women started a small tions amounting to many hundred dollars every Sunday school. The services were held in pri- year. The church property is now worth about vale houses. In 1SS1 F. Melby and family eleven thousand dollars.

tion commenced to grow the question of getting has been taught for several years. The enrolla church home was mooted. An old church was ment of the Sunday School is about eighty

German Lutherans. On account of a split A young people's society that is literary, deamong the Germans they terminated their serv- votional and social, has been a good help to began to plan for a new church. The old one The first pastor of this church was P.. P. becoming almost unfit for use, it was deemed Strand. Reverend Strand preached his farewiser to erect a new building than to patch well sermon on April 0, 1SS2. After a vacancy the old one. The congregation, although not of fifteen months Rev. \. (;. Nilsen became the strong, thought of the future and decided not pastor. He served the congregation for nine only to build a new church edifice, but also to years. Several ministers served the congrega- tion during the vacancy and anions; them was Rev. N. J. Lockrein. who also installed the present pastor. Rev. T. Aarrestad, on the 26tb day of November. 1S93.

This congregation was connected with the Conference of The Norwegian-Danish Evangelical Lutheran Church of America, until the Conference in 1S90, when it was merged into The United Norwegian Lutheran Church of America. Since that time Bethlehem Evangelical Lutheran Church of .Morris. 111., has been connected with this body.

As a preface to this sketch of the Presbyterian Church, a few words about the general history of this denomination in the United States is necessary. The Presbyterian Church in America sprung from three sources, viz. : from Holland by the Dutch in Now York ; from Scotland in Virginia, and from the Huguenots who settled in Carolina, all as immigrants. It owes its origin and character principally to Scotland. The Dutch of New York organized the first church in New Amsterdam, now New York, in 1010, and it is now known all over the United States as the Dutch Reformed Church. Scotch Presbyterians settled on the Elizabeth River in Virginia between the years 1070 and 1CS0. It is uncertain when the first Presbyterian Church was formed, though it is known that a church was organized at Snow Hill, Md., in 1684, by Rev. Francis Makinzie. The Huguenots were banished from France by the Revocation of the Edict of Nantes in 16S5, and established their churches in this country very soon after this period. From these three colonies of immigrants, as said before, have sprung the Presbyterian churches in the United States which now number according to the latest official reports, lO.Ono, with 0.274 ministers. and these are to be found in every state and territory of the United States. The total contributions of all the Presbyterian churches in the country for 1912 as published in the minutes of the General Assembly of the church, amount to $25,798,615.

The Presbyterian Church in the United States is governed almost identically as is the national government.' The local church is truly organized when a number of members band themselves together and vote to become a church by electing any number of male members as Ruling Elders, and other members as trustees of that particular church. The Ruling Elders have to do with the spiritual affairs of the church and serve as representatives to the higher courts of the church. The trustees have to attend to the business part of the church government. Loth of these bodies are elected by the congregation, in which male and female members have equal rights. These officers correspond somewhat to the board of supervisors in each county of the state, and are elected for a definite number of years. Several churches grouped together geographically, with the ministers of these several churches, form the next higher court, called a Presbytery, and corresponds to the State Congressional Districts. The Presbytery consists of all the ministers within its bounds and one Ruling Elder as a representative of each individual church. This meets semi-annually and to it the churches make their annual reports. It alone has the power to license candidates for the ministry, and ordain them. It alone elects commissioners to the next higher courts of the church. All the presbyteries of a state constitute the Synod and meet annually with an equal number of ministers and ruling elders. The Presbyteries choose the commissioners to the General Assembly, the highest court of the church which meets and receives annually the reports of all the churches which are published. The General Assembly corresponds to the national congress. The doctrines peculiar to the Presbyterian Church are set forth in the Westminster Confession of Faith and Catechism which were formulated, adopted and published, from the system of theology promulgated by John Calvin, of Geneva, Switzerland, with those of John Knox, of Scotland, by the Assembly of Divines which convened in Jerusalem Chamber, 'Westminster Abbey, England, in 104.ri, by order of the British Parliament.

The Presbyterian Church at Morris was undoubtedly the first of that faith organized in Grundy County. The following extract is found in the church records:

-'According to the appointment of Presbytery a meeting was held on the seventh day of November, 1S30, for the purpose of organizing a church. After service which was conducted by Rev. John Fleming, all who designed to enter into the organization were requested to

The following presented themselves, namely: B. W. Brice and his wife, Catherine E. Brice and their daughter. Miss Elizabeth E. Brice; J. P. Atwater and his wife, Mrs. Ahigal Atwater; Miss Anna Hull; Mr. John Rainey and his wile, Elizabeth Rainey." Accordingly these eight persons were constituted a church to be known as the First Presbyterian Church Of Morris. J. R. Atwater was chosen and installed as a Ruling Elder and John R. Davidson was appointed clerk of the congregation. The Rev. \V. Porterfield was the stated supply as minister of the new church. Soon thereafter the following persons were received by letters from other churches, namely : William Mason and his wife, Elizabeth Mason; Miss Jane Mason; John Hannah and his wife; Miss Isabella McGuistin; Magnes Hurrie and his wife. Mary P.. : John B. Davidson. This is the record of the organization.

Rev. Porterfield supplied the church for three years and it grew, the Rev. Reuben Fraine succeeding Rev. Porterfield, serving the church as pastor for four years. He was born June IS, 1S04, of Quaker parentage, was graduated from Jefferson College. Pa., in 1S26, and ordained in 1S43. After holding different pastorates for thirty years, lie retired on account of loss of sight. His oldest son, John, one of two in the ministry, succeeded him in the Morris Church. Father Fraine lived to be an old man, being eighty-seven years old at the time of his death. John Fraine was pastor of the Morris Church for eight years, being very successful in his work here, and then was called to the church at Champaign, 111., where he died in the prime of life, much beloved by his people. He was followed in the Morris Church by Rev. James B. McCIoud. who served for two years, and then Rev. J. M. Laubach was the pastor for two years. Rev. A. Marshall was his successor, and after three years was followed by Rev. J. T. Killen, who was pastor for two years. Rev. T. W. Adams for the following year was pastor, and was succeeded by Rev. R. Dobson. when after a year. Rev. W. C. Magner was called to the church, in February, 1887, and served until May, 189S, over eleven years. He was followed by Rev. O. C. Johnson. After seven years, the Rev. Henry Abraham served four years, and was followed by Rev. C. H. Bruce, D. D.

Jackson .Street, and was of brick, finished and dedicated February, 1S5S, during the ministry of Rev. Reuben Fraine. The present beautiful church edifice was built during the pastorate of Rev. O. ('. Johnson, and dedicated June 5, 1904, and stands on the same lot as the old church. It is built of granite and is modern in every respect, containing about a dozen rooms in addition to the auditorium and chapel, and cost between twenty-five thousand and thirty thousand dollars. Adoining is a modern manse, which, with the lot. cost about five thousand dollars. The manse was built during the pastorate of Rev. Henry Abraham. The church has a line pipe organ, operated by electricity.

Free Methowsts

Morris has a branch of Methodism known as the Free Methodists, boused in a neat church edifice on Liberty Street. For some time it was in charge of Miss Viola Mariott, evangelist, but now has a regular pastor. Rev. F. S. Parks.