Marengo Township (part 2 of 3)

Ahira Thompson was born in Orleans County, Vt., April 6, 1819, a son of Jonathan and Polly M. (Eeed) Thompson , his father a native of New Hampshire and his mother of Massachusetts. In 1829 his parents moved to Ohio and settled in Monroe, Ashtabula County. When nineteen years of age he came to Illinois, intending to seek employment of the Government on the harbor at Chicago, but as there was no appropriation made he went to Michigan City, Ind., and remained a year. In 1839 he came to McHenry County and bought a claim in Seneca Township and remained one season. He then went to Chicago and manufactured flour barrels two years. He was then employed two years as collector for a fanning mill company, and in 1844 returned to McHenry County and bought a farm in Coral Township. Aug. 11,1862, he enlisted in Company E, Ninety-fifth Illinois Infantry. He was detailed to the commissary department and served there nine months. In February, 1863, he was appointed Hospital Steward, but in June was taken ill and was unable to report for duty till Jan. 1, 1864. He then returned to his regiment and served till Nov. 1; was discharged in 1864. After his return home he engaged in farming till April, 1883, when he moved to Marengo. Mr. Thompson was married Oct. 9, 1844, to Charlotte M. Morris, a native of Madison County, N. Y. They have had five children - William M., Esta N. (deceased), Charles A., Louvia and Albertise K. (deceased). Politically Mr. Thompson is a Republican. He is a member of Harley Wayne Post, No. 169, G. A. R. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. He was Constable of Coral Township twelve years, and Tax Collector three years, 1855-'57.

Cha/rles H. Thome, farmer and stock-raiser, was born on the farm where he resides Jan. 14, 1848, the only son of Henry M. and Charlotte M. (Cobb) Thorne. After the death of his father he took charge of the farm, and has managed it efficientlv and successfully. He has 276 acres of choice land all well improved, and makes a speciality of raising thoroughbred short-horn cattle and Berkshire hogs. Mr. Thorne was married Feb. 22, 1882, to Adelaide Starks, a native of Marengo and a daughter of John Starks. They have one child - Nina R. Politically Mr. Thorne is a Republican.

Misha J. Vail was born in Rutland County, Vt, in 1823, the fourth son of Micah and Betsey (Herrick) Vail, natives of Vermont, of English and German descent. He remained with his parents till his majority and in September, 1844, came to Illinois and settled in Marengo Township, McHenry County. He bought eighty acres of land near the village, and followed farming a year. He then engaged in the mercantile business five years was the secoud merchant in Marengo. In 1850 he bought the farm where he now lives. He owns 230 acres of fine land, and has a comfortable residence and farm buildings. He was married in 1848 to Delphia Elizabeth, daughter of Christopher Sponable, one of the first settlers of Marengo. They have had twelve children - Bettie L., Sada S., Charles H., Mattie E., Mable, Maggie (died when fourteen years old), Edwin S., Elizabeth, Froad E., Leon, James, Ruth. Mr. and Mrs. Vail are members of the Presbyterian church. Politically he is a Democrat.

Frank G. Vail, dealer in agricultural implements, carriages and buggies, Marengo, 111., is a native of Rutland County, Vt, born March 17, 1857, the only son of Almon I. and Eunice (Hewlatt) Vail. In 1860 his parents moved to Marengo, 111., and here he was reared and received his early education, completing it at Quincy, 111. After leaving school he assisted his father, who was buying and shipping horses, till 1S80, when he became established in his present business. He has been industrious and has built up a good business. In October, 1879, he was married to Miss Nellie Parkhurst, a native of Marengo. They have had three children, but one of whom is living - Don C. Two died in infancy. Politically Mr. Vail is a Republican.

Gustavus V. Wells, one of the most prominent and influential men of Marengo, was born in Lorraine, Jefferson Co., N. Y., June 22, 1808, the second of four children of Appleton and Rhoda (Baldwin) "Wells, his father a native of Connecticut and his mother of New York. His father moved his family to Cayuga County, and then returned to Sackett's Harbor, N. Y., where he was taken with diphtheria and died, aged thirty-three years, three days after leaving his wife and children. The mother died in Jo Daviess County, 111., aged eighty-seven years. Gustavus V. was but five years of age when his father died. He remained in Cayuga County till nineteen years of age and then went to Chautauqua County, N. Y., and served an apprenticeship at the cooper's trade. In 1832 he moved to Geauga County, Ohio, and followed agricult- ural pursuits till 1858, in the meantime, however, was engaged in the distilling business in New York. In the spring of 1858 he moved to Marengo, where he has since resided. He has been prominently identified with the interests of the town since first locating. He has been Magistrate since 1862. On the organization of the First National Bank, in 1870, he was elected its President, and served thirteen years, when he resigned. He is purely aself-made man. Starting out in life an orphan with no one to assist him, he has by perseverance reached the top of the financial ladder and is now one of the most influential men of McHenry County. He was married in December, 1829, to Matilda "Warner, daughter of David "Warner. They have had three 'children - "Walter C. ; Marian B., wife of Bobert A. White, and Josephine, who died at the age of ten years. Mr. Wells has been a member of the. Masonic fraternity since 1836; is now a member of Marengo Lodge> No. 138, and Lancing Chapter, No. 73.

Loron Woodard, born in Oswego County, N. Y., Feb. 6, 1827, and moved with his parents to Syracuse, N. Y., in 1835, the third son of Jonathan and Deborah (Davids) Woodard, natives of Albany County, N. Y., of English descent. When sixteen years of age he began working for Thorp & Smith, nurserymen of Syracuse, and remained with them till 1851 when he came West, and located in Marengo, 111., where he carried on the Pleasant Grove Nursery successfully till 1880, when with others he established the Marengo Pickle Factory. He was the originator of the enterprise and is the general superintendent of the factory. They have a large trade and pay out for their supplies about $15,000 a year. Loron Woodard was married Nov. 14, 1849, to Harriet Levy, daughter of Michael Levy, of New York, of Holland descent. They have had one son - Allen M., who died June 25, 1875, aged nineteen years five months and twenty-seven days. Mr. Woodard has been a member of the Common Council a number of years. He has served as President of the McHenry County Agricultural Society and as Treasurer of the Northern Illinois Horticultural Society. He is a member of Marengo Lodge, No. 138, F. & A. M.; Lancing Chapter, No. 73, K. A. M., and Calvary Commandery, No. 25, K. T, at Woodstock. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Politically he is a Republican. A few years after his settlement in McHenry County his mother died and his father came West, and made his home in Marengo with said L. Woodard till his death in 1881.

Chapter Xxv

This township is situated on the east side of McHenry County, joining Lake County on the east line. On the north it is joined by Richmond and Burton townships and on the south by E"unda Township; on the west by Greenwood Township, being township 45, range 8. This is one of the best watered townships in the county. Besides being traversed from north to south by the Fox River, it contains half of Pistauqua Lake in the northeastern portion of the township. In the southeastern portion lies one half of Lilly Lake; McCollum's Lake lies near the center of the township. These, together with two branches of Boone Creek, the main stream of the Nippersiuk, and one of its tributaries, and many smaller streams, secures natural water privileges in nearly every section in the township. Not only do we find this a well-watered township but one of the most productive and rich in the county.

only before Lake. County was separated from McHenry but for some time afterward ; a full account of this and its subsequent change will be found in the general history.

First Settlement

The first person to settle in this township was Dr. Christy G-. Wheeler, brother of Elder Wheeler, the present living pioneer. Dr. Wheeler came in 1836 and opened a small store in what is now McHenry. This together with the practice of medicine and occasional preaching occupied his time while he lived, which was but a tew years after his arrival. He came West in search of a climate more suitable to his impaired health and for a time seemed to improve under the bracing influences of the prairie winds, but at length was compelled to succumb to them. While filling an appointment for his brother, Kev. Joel Wheeler, some thirty-five miles distant, he took cold and died a short time afterward.

Among those who were next to settle in this township we find the names of Henry and John McLean, Louis and John Boone, John, William and David McCollum, Wesley Ladd, Samuel Walker. The year following came Allen and Freeman Harvey, B. B. Brown, Jonathan and Mike Sutton, Kev. Joel Wheeler. The McLeans came from Vermont; Henry W. is still a resident of McHenry; John went to Iowa in 1860 where he still resides. The Boones came from Ohio; William died in Greenwood in 1883. John was a resident of the county about ten years, when he moved to Iowa. The McCollums also came from Ohio; John moved to Minnesota about the year 1852 where he remained until his death in 1880; William made McHenry his home till his death in 1884; David died in Mc- Henry in 1880; he had been a resident of the county most of the time since he settled in it. Wesley Ladd came from Maine and is etill a resident of McHenry Township, Samuel Walker is also -an Eastern man; he made his home in Ringwood many years previous to his death in 1881. The Harveys came from Vermont; Allen died about the year 1860, having made his home in the township from his first settlement till the date of his death; Freeman died in this township about the year 1874. Among the early settlers we find the names ofWm. H. Hankins and family, his aunt, Mrs. Valentine, and her son, also a man by the name of Teabout, whose subsequent brief history is anything but harmonious with the welfare of pioneers. In September, 1837, these parties came from the East in an emigrant wagon which they occupied after arrival till they succeeded in erecting a cabin. In the following December young Yalentine fell from a tree and was instantly killed; not long after this event Mr. Teaboutlost his life by the accidental discharge of his rifle while hunting. In 1879 Mr. Hankins died at the age of seventy-one. Many other names might be mentioned among those, who came to this township in an early day, but most of their names will appear in other branches of this history. Some, too, came and remained but a short time, scarcely becoming identified with the township and its interests. The usual early events transpired here as elsewhere. The first record we have of a wedding in this township, was that of Joseph Fellows and Christiana Robin ault, on the 10th day of November, 1839; ceremony performed by Rev. Joel Wheeler. Some claim that the marriage of I. N". Greenleaf and Elizabeth McOmber (daughter of Squire McOmber) was the first that occurred in the township, and that it was in 1838; this we will not dispute, but if it is the case the marriage was not recorded. The first birth was a daughter of Christy Wheeler. The first death occurred in 1836; William Herrick accidently shot himself; while crossing the ice on Fox River, his horse broke through the ice which in some way caused the discharge of his rifle and killed him instantly. He was buried on the river bank where his remains lay for many years, but a short time ago while some parties were digging a cellar his remains were lifted and placed in the McHenry Village cemetery. The first school was taught in 1840 by a Miss McOmber, in a small log house erected on the bank of Fox River. This was also the first schoolhouse built in the township. It served its purpose for many years and was afterward converted into a store. The first religious seryices were held by Elder Wheeler in a log house built by H. W. McLean. A little incident occurred at this meeting that is still a source of considerable mirth to the pioneers who witnessed it. The walls of the building were only five feet high and the cross ties were covered with shakes. Mr. Alden Harvey was a man whose height was six feet four inches; Mrs. Barnum was over six feet. These two people sang in the choir and when they attempted to rise and sing were prevented by the shakes overhead. Mr. Harvey cleared away the obstruction by reaching up and moving the shakes to one side thus permitting bis and Mrs. Barnum's heads to pass up into the loft where they sang while the rest of the congregation were singing in the room below.

There are in the township six cemeteries, two situated at the village of McHenry called the Woodland and Catholic. At Johnsburgh a German Catholic cemetery is established. A Protestant burying ground is located in the village of Eingwood and another one mile west of same village. About two and a half miles west of McHenry Village is situated what is known as Thompson's burying ground. The Protestant cemetery at McHenry was laid out about the year 1852. Previous to this the dead were buried near the mill-dam, about one mile north of McHenry Village. To the new grounds most of the bodies have been taken from the old one.

The first postoffice established in the township was in the year 1837. Christy Wheeler was the first Postmaster appointed and held the office about one year. In those days the office scarcely paid expenses, and was held more as a matter of accommodation by the Postmasters than for any pecuniary rewards. The present Postmaster in McHenry is James B. Perry. By subterfuge some tell us the postoffice was moved to West McHenry, and for one year McHenry was without an office. Petitions, long and strong, were sent to headquarters. Finally Congressman Elwood promised the people an office at each of the places, and in 1883 a man was sent out from Washington, D. C, to look over the grounds and the matter was finally settled by establishing an office at each of the places. The Postmaster at West McHenry is Chester B. Stevens. Whether this outgrowth is the result of good or bad feeling, it surely proved a benefit to all parties concerned and may in the end prove to be a healing balm, cementing the two little burgs in friendship.

This township has kept at least even pace with its sister townships if it has not in some instances surpassed them in the interests of education as the following statistics will prove: Number of school-houses in township, seven; amount of salary paid teachers, $3,448; number of children of a school age, 658, with school property valued at $9,000. This township has a small library from which the scholars glean much useful knowledge.

At the first meeting held after the organization of the township the following officers were elected: A. H. Nixon, Supervisor; A. C. Smith, Town Clerk; Star Titus, Assessor; Robert Richardson, Collector; A. C. Thompson, Justice of the Peace; John V. McLean, Constable; John Rockwood, Overseer of the Poor; Abijah Smith, Samuel Walker and Anthony Overacre, Commissioners of Highways. The township officers elected in 1884 are as follows: Richard Bishop, Supervisor; F. G. Mayes, Clerk, John Huemann, Assessor; Geo. Rothermel, Collector; Castor Adams, Isaac Harsh and A. P. Colby, Commissioners of Highways; H. N. Holmes, Constable; James B. Perry and Homer Wattles, Justices of the Peace.

Mc Henry Village

This, the old site of the county seat, was the first town that took shape in McHenry County. This village was laid out by a Chicago surveyor by the name of Bradley in the year 1837 through the instrumentality of Henry McLean. Mr. McLean built the first house in the place, a log building 12x 16, near the present site of the Riverside House. It served as a preaching house and a house of public entertainment several months after it was built.

The first hotel was built by B. B. Brown in 1837. It was a log building and served its purpose about twenty years. The second hotel was the Mansion House, built by Horace Long who ran it about ten years. His successors have been numerous and the building has been used as a hotel up till within a short time. It was formerly the old court-house which came into disuse upon the removal of the county seat. It was built in 1838; was a frame structure 40 x 60 feet and two stories high. About the year 1851 Mr. Baldwin built a fine frame hotel, the Fremont House, on the present site of the Riverside Hotel which was burned about eight years later. The Riverside House was built in 1864 by John W. and David Smith. It is a three-story brick building 40 x 60 feet in size. The entire building is occupied as a hotel with the ex- ception of a large store-room on the lower floor. It is one of the most substantial buildings in the place and presents a fine, commanding appearance.

Indian Ford

Here, at McHenry Village, the Indians constructed a ford, or used a ford rather constructed of broad, flat, square-cut sandstone regularly laid and secured by other stone in such a manner that the swift current of the stream could not dislodge them. The pioneers having use for these stones soon brought them from the river's bed and made of them principally hearth-stones. It is a mystery to the oldest inhabitant from whence came these stones and by whom were they so mechanically quarried, though search has been made far and near and no such stone has been found.

Feeby Boat

The pioneers were not long in establishing a ferry to take the place of the unsafe ford. The first ferry boat used here was built at Burlington in 1836 and was brought to McHenry in 1837 and was here used till 1842 when they constructed a bridge which served well its purpose till the spring of 1849 when a freshet carried it down the stream. It was brought back and rebuilt the same season. This bridge was constructed by Jacob Story and Alden Harvey at an expense of $1,545. It was built on the tressel-work plan and was replaced by a new bridge several years afterward which served a good purpose but a few years. In 1864 the third one was erected at a cost of $2,350. The present iron bridge was erected in the winter of 1880 and 1881 by a Milwaukee Bridge Company at a cost of $8,200. The first two bridges were built by subscription, the third one at the expense of the county, and the last at the expense of" McHenry Township.

Incorporation

Not till Aug. 10, 1872, was the village of McHenry incorporated, and while it has since been making rapid advancements, it had already grown to a place of considerable size. A t the first election held by the authorized voters of McHenry Tillage the following officers were chosen: R. Bishop, President; J. B. Perry, J. M. McOmber, H. C. Smith, John King and F. K. Granger, Trustees, Michael Keller, Clerk, and Henry Colby, Treasurer. The present village officers are as follows: E. Bishop, President;

The first saw-mill in the village was built in 1837, by a man by the name of Barnum, who afterward sold out to Messrs. H. N. Owen and James Salisbury, who completed it. The work was executed by John McOmber, who afterward built a house for himself of the first lumber sawed at this mill. In March, 1834, James Salisbury went below to correct a slight error with reference to its movement and not notifying the mill man, he had scarcely placed himself among the machinery when the gate was hoisted and the machinery set in motion, crushing him almost instantly. His burial with Christian obsequies was the first in the county, Rev. Joel Wheeler officiating.

Grist-mill. - In 1851 E. M. Owen and his brothers, H. A. and O. W., built the grist-mill in McHenry; at that time it was the best in the county. Together the three brothers ran the mill till 1858 when E. M. Owen bought the share of his brother O. W. After the death of H. A. , E. M. Owen sold the property to R. Bishop, who paid for it $20,000, and immediately added an expense of $10,000 by placing in it the latest improved rollers. Its capacity is fifty barrels per day, and twenty-five hands are constantly employed.

Pickle Factory. - In 1882 this factory was built by the present owner and proprietor, Richard Bishop. Its dimensions are 40 x 125 feet, with capacity for holding 20,000 bushels, and Mr. Bishop expects to soon enlarge the structure to a capacity of 30,000 bushels. During the busy season from fifteen to twenty hands are employed.

Wagon Factory. - Owned and operated by Richard Bishop. This was among the first of McHenry's industries. The business had grown rapidly and ready sale was found for all goods though they turned out five and six wagons a day. This successful enterprise was, however, suddenly brought to a close by the entire structure, stock and machinery burning to the ground on the 31st of July, 1874. There being no insurance the loss was heavy, estimated at $30,000. In 1878 the shop was rebuilt on a much larger scale, in which was placed $6,000 worth of machinery. The shop is still doing a fine business, furnishing employment to fifteen hands regularly.

Ed. Owen, Mr. King, Schreiner & Benfield. Mr. Herbes was the proprietor in 1880 when the present proprietor, G. Boley, purchased the property paying for it $1,400. Since Mr. Boley's purchase he has been constantly adding improvements until now it stands second to none in the county for manufacturing facilities. Its capacity is 1,200 barrels. The business is daily increasing. In addition to the brewery Mr. Boley owns a large malt-house in which he manufactures all his malt for manufacturing beer.

Universalist. - This church was organized Jan. 17, 1853, Rev.' James R. Mack being the pastor. The first members were: R. Bishop and wife, D. Brown and wife, Francis Harrison and wife, C. B. Curtiss and wite, Christopher Seeber and wife, George Gage and A. H. Hanly. The pastor and Mr. David Smith and Mr. R. Bishop undertook the task of raisiug a subscription to build a church. The first day they raised about $1,000. Thelistcontinued to grow by the assistance of outsiders till it reached $2,000. The following summer they erected a church building 32 x 60 at a cost of $3,000, the extra $1,000 being paid soon after the completion of the church. Rev. Mack preached one year when he was suceeeded by Rev. O. Roberts, Rev. Tabor, Rev. Wiles, Rev. Rodgers, Rev. Powers, Rev. Dinsmore. The church grew to a membership of forty.

St. Patrick's Roman Catholic was organized in 1840 by Rev. M. St. Palais, afterward Bishop of Yincennes, Ind. The church was formed with the following three families: Mike Sutton, George Frisbie and James Gibbs. For a time after the organization they held services in private houses. In 1853 they built their house of worship at a cost of $700. In 1872 they rebuilt at an expense of $2,000. and again in 1883 at a cost of over $2,000. The church now is composed of seventy-five families and is in a flourishing condition. The following pastors have at different times ministered to this church: Rev. M. St. Palais, Father Gigwan, Father McGorisk, Rev. McMahan, Rev. Hampstead Brady, P. Gafney, Jas. Moran, Andrew Austace, Jas. Maber, Rev. P. Smith, J. Prenergast, P. Burch, Rev. Kilkenny, J. Hayes, P. Gormley, M. Milbey. The present pastor, Rev. P. M. O'Neill, came in 1876. Services are held regularly each Sunday.

was quite small and does not exceed twenty- five at the present time. They held services for a time in the Baptist church; at present they occupy the Methodist Episcopal church. Services are held once every two weeks. Rev. M. Heyer was their second pastor, and the third, their present pastor, Carl Schneider.

Fublio School

The first frame school-house built in the place stood on what is now the public square. This served its purpose several years and was finally succeeded by a brick building iu the eastern portion of the village. The people on the west side not being satisfied with this raised means on subscription by which they erected a two-story brick building where the frame school-house now stands. This building cost $2,000. This obligation was at the end of three years assumed by the district and paid off. The house bnilt in the east side of McHenry cost $6,000 and was erected in 1859. In 1862 the school-house on the west side was burned. The year following the present frame building was erected at a cost of $1,500. The Principals in the school on the east side were as follows: Prof. Win. Nickle, F. W. Harper, Rev. O. Adams, Mr. Graves, Mr. Beers, S. D. Baldwin, and James Sheldon, the present occupant.

Mchenry Lodge, A . F. & A. M., No. 158

The first meeting of this body was held Feb. 26, 1854, and gave itself the name of Pishlakah Lodge. At this time the active members were: Z. W. Burnham, W. M.;Jas. R. Mack, S. W. ; Herman N. Owen, J. W.; Horace Burton, Secretary; Jesse Flanders, S. D. ; Wm. G. Burnham, J. D. and Abner Mack, Tyler. Meetings were held regularly and their list of members constantly increased. In October, of same year, J. R. Mack was sent as a delegate to the Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois, then assembled at Springfield. Upon his return he brought home with him a charter granted to Z. W. Burnham, Jas. R. Mack, H. N. Owen and others. The name given was McHenry Lodge, A. F. & A. M., No. 158. The Grand Lodge also appointed the above named grantees W. M., S. W. and J. W., in the order in which they appear with power to open said lodge. The following is a list of charter members: Z. W. Burnham, Jas. R. Mack, H. N. Owen, H. Burton, A. H. Nixon, S. W. G. Burnham, Abner Mack, George Gage, Harley Green, Benjamin Gilbert, Richard Bishop, Leonard Gage, John Anderson, E. H. Wood, Wm. R. Willard, A. L Church, Chas.

B. Curtiss, J. M. Coleman, and Andrew McColley. On the evening of Dec. 27, 1854, a public installation of officers was held at the Universalist church of this place and an address was delivered by Dr. Johnston, of Chicago, after which the following officers were installed being the first regularly elected in the history of the lodge, viz.: Z. W. Burnham, W. M.; Jas. R. Mack, S. W.; H.N. Owen, J. W.; Geo. Gage, Treasurer; H. Burton, Sec; A. H. Nixon, S. D. ; G. W. Burnham, J. D. ; Wm. R. Willard and Andrew McColley, Stewards; Abner Mack, Tyler. After the expiration of the duties at the church, the audience assembled at the lodge room, which was regularly dedicated by S. O. Wilson, D. G. M. The following is a list of the present officers: Chas. C. Colby, W. M.; E. W. Howe, S. W.; J\ Van Slyke, J. W.; 0. W. Owen, Chaplain; Page Colby, Treasurer; C. H. Morey, Secretary; Rollin Waite, S. D. ; Jabez Carr, J. D. ; Jas. E. Ladd and Henry Colby, Stewards; W. F. Tilton, Tyler. The lodge is in a flourishing condition with a membership of thirty-six in good standing. Regular meetings held at their hall, situated in the third story of Colby's Block, on the Saturday evening on or before the full of the moon of each month and second Saturday evening thereafter.

This village sprang into existence upon the arrival of the railroad. George Gage owned the site of the tow > and was instrumental to quite an extent in securing the r.iUroad. He and others at once saw the propriety of erecting public and private buildings, and it was not long till the majority of the lots were sold and built upon. Gradually the business was drawn from the east side of the river, till now the villages are about equal rivals in the merits of commerce. The depot being located here makes it much more convenient for many persons to do their trading here than on the east side.

Paekee House

This building was erected in 1858 by George Gage, and was for a time called the Gage House. It was first kept by a Mr. Van Doozen who opened it on New Year's day with a grand ball. Mr. Van Doozen was landlord about three years when he was succeeded by ¥m. Murrey who ran it about four years when he was followed by a Mr. Holmes who kept hotel here about three years. He was succeeded by a Mr. Edson who ran it about three years. Then L. D. Lincoln ran it two years. On the 5th of February, 1869, W. Parker purchased the property of Mr. Gage for $2,500. He added to it a half story and so completed a fine dancing hall 40 x 83 feet, adding to the cost of the building about $4,000. Mr. Parker was proprietor of this house from the date of his purchase up till Aug. 4, 1881, when Lis son. F. A. Parker, took charge of it and continued landlord till the summer of 1884, when W. Parker again resumed the position of hotel-keeper.

A Grist-Mill was built in 1872 by Wm. Hanley. It is a fourstory brick building, 40 x 40 feet, and situated on the west side of West McHenry. It is a custom mill and does a good business, taking in one day as high as 500 bushels of wheat. It is in fine repair and does good work.

Butter and Cheese Factory. - This factory was built in 1881 by Oatman & Sons, at a cost of $5,000. It is one of the finest factories in the county, and is doing quite a flourishing business. Twelve thousand pounds of milk are here consumed daily in the manufacture of butter and cheese. Oatman & Sons are still the owners and proprietors. It is situated on west side of West McHenry near Hanley's mill.

History Of Mo Henrt Countt

worth and Amos D. "Whiting. The first year they manufactured 900,000 brick; the year following 1,800,000, and are this year going to put up 2,000,000. They employ twenty-five hands, and are doing a good business, finding good and ready sale for all bricks made which are in some respects superior to many bricks manufactured in this section of the country.

Lumber Yard. - This yard was established in 1873 by the pres" ent proprietors, Smith & Snyder. They do a general business of buying and shipping grain. Keep on hand a supply of coal for retailing purposes; also flour, feed, etc., together with a full supply of house trimmings and mechanic's supplies. They eDgage largely in shipping live stock, and have invested in their business some $30,000.

Pickle Factory. - This factory was built in 1874 by a union of farmers residing in the vicinity of McHenry, at a cost of about $8,000. In 1876 Messrs. Curtiss and Walker assumed the management of the business and factory with W. H. Wiswell under foreman. In the fall of 1878 Wiswell died, and it was run under the firm name of Curtiss, Walker & Co., till 1880, when Mr. Walker died, and W. A. Cristy bought Mr. Curtiss's interest. It is now run under the name of Cristy, Walker & Co.

In 1876 a building was erected 24 x60 for the purpose of manufacturing vinegar, after which time they pickled the fruit ready for market. In 1881 additional improvements were made at an expense of several thousand dollars, making the property worth $40,000. They manufacture 20,000 bushels a year which they ship to various points throughout the United States.

Methodist Episcopal Ohuboh

This society was organized in 1840. The first members were Ira and Mrs. Mary Colby, Darius Reynolds and Mrs. L. Reynolds, Alden and Mrs. M. Harvey, Freeman Harvey, and Mrs. Abigal Harvey, with Freeman Harvey, Class-Leader. Once in four weeks preaching was held in the court-house and at other times in private houses, principally in Ira Colby's log house. The circuit consisted of seven appointments besides this. In 1850 this church in connection with the Free-Will Baptists built a brick church and occupied it alternately. The present church was built in 1859 and dedicated free of debt. The parsonage was built in 1879. The membership is ninety since joined with Ringwood. Rev. S. Searls, present pastor.

This place was settled in 1837 by Dr. Luke Hale and Wm. H. Beach. Dr. Hale was a physician, and practiced here many years; both he and Beach came with their families from Vermont. The plat of Ringwood was made in 1854. The name was given through the fact that the little settlement was entirely surrounded by a ring of timber or woods, hence the name of Bingwood. It is a pleasant little village with a fair amount of business, and pleasant homes with beautiful surroundings.

Public School

Ever since the settlement of this community much interest has been paid to the matter of education. Their public school became a graded one in 1866, with Prof. Wm. Nickle, Principal, who has since held that position with the exception of one year during which absence his place was filled by Chas. Willis and James Fulkner. Under the management of Prof. Nickle the school has been doing good work.

This nursery was established about 1870 by John V. Buck land. It covers three acres of ground and contains all the varieties of fruit and shade trees. The large fruits are all here represented, as well as many different kinds of grapes, with berries of every description in abundance. It is an acknowledged benefit to the community surrounding and is a source of considerable income to Mr. Buckland.

In 1883 a butter and cheese association was formed here and erected a factory at a cost of $2,200 without the machinery which has since been added at considerable expense. About 1,000 pounds of milk are taken in daily.

In 1867 R. A. Buckland, at an expense of $3,500, built a cheese factory here and ran it but one year and did a fair business but shut doton in 1868, and has never resumed the business. The machinery was sold and the building is used as a private residence.

Congbegational Chuech

This body of Christians was organized in 1849 through the united efforts of Wm. Mead, John Rockwood and a Mr. Lester, who at that time comprised the most of this settlement. For a time they held meetings in school-houses but at length joined with the Methodists and built the present Methodist Episcopal church. The two societies could not agree and the result was that most of the Congregational society returned to their former practice of holding services in the school-house, In 1861 they built a house of worship at a cost of $2,800 to which they afterward added a bell which cost $500. This church was built by Wm. Mead, now deceased, and Chauncey Beckwith, who bore all the expense themselves. Till 1874 services were regularly held but since that time they have seldom met as a band of worshipers; most of the original members are dead and some have moved away. The church now stands idle as a monument to the past religious habits of this community.

This place was settled about the year 1852 by Germans who are the sole inhabitants of the place still. It was named in honor of one of their number who assumed the position of leader or director of the little settlement; the Christian name of this personage being John, the place was subsequently called Johnsburg. As will be seen by the business directory of the place, it is quite a trading point, though seldom patronized by Americans.

This church was organized in 1843 by Father Portman. They proceeded at once to build a log house of worship. At that time the congregation consisted of but three families, viz.: Nick Adams, Jacob Smith and Nick Frett. They occupied the log church about five years when they built a frame one which served the purpose till 1879 when the present fine church was built. It is a stone structure 50 x 133 feet in dimensions, and was erected at a cost of $45,000. The following priests have had charge of this church: Fathers Jacomett, Geiperick, Curates, Frownhover, Leirman, Fenn, Fegers, Gerst, Hermann, and Greenbaum, who is the present incumbent. The church has grown in numbers to 275 families. In addition, and in connection with the church, they have alargeGerman school where the children of the congregation are taught.

Marble Works

These works were established in 1868 by Henry Miller who has since then been doing a steady and prosperous business. These are as large as any in the county and here some of the finest monuments and memorial designs are executed. The sales amount annually to over $3,000.

Castor Adams was born in Prussia, May 20, 1832, a son of Nicholas and Susanah Adams, natives of Germany, who came to America in 1841 and located in McHenry County, 111., on the farm where our subject now lives, where the mother died in 1843, aged thirty-four years, aud the father, June 26, 1879, aged eighty-one years. Castor Adams attended school in his native country, but after coming to America was obliged to help his father on the farm and attended school only a month. He was married Oct. 30, 1855, to Anna, daughter of John P. and Kate Huemann, natives of Ger many. They have eight children - John, Emma, Peter, Nicholas" Joseph, Katie, William and Mary. He has served as Assessor two terms, Eoad Commissioner four terms, and School Director several years.

Rev. J. E. Bassett was born in Eushville, Ontario Co., N. T. Sept. 10, 1815, a son of Fortunatus Bassett, a native of New York of English descent. His mother died a few days after his birth and his father survived only a few years. His boyhood was spent on a farm. His educational advantages were limited to the common school, which he attended in the winter till twenty years of age. He was converted and joined the Methodist Episcopal church and in 1835 was licensed to preach. He joined the Erie Conference and was under its appointment nine years. He then located in Mentor, Lake Co., 1ST. Y., and engaged in farming four years. From there he moved to Chester, Ohio, and four years later to McHenry County. Although he now sustains no conference relation he devotes a part of his time to church work. He was married Sept. 11, 1840, to Celestia, daughter of Eber and Eliphalet Norton. They have had three children; but two are living - Wilbur F., now on the farm with his father, and Adeline, wife of David Magroon. Mr. Bassett has a fine farm of 128 acres, which is well stocked, and his farm buildings are comfortable.

Chauncey Beckwith was born in Newport, N. H.,Feb. 16, 1811, a son of Jabez and Catherine Beckwith, natives of New Hampshire. His father died at the age of thirty -five, and his mother at the age of forty years. He received a good education, attending school in the winter till twenty years of age. In May, 1836, he left New Hampshire, and came to'McHenry County, 111., and laid a claim.- At that time there were but three families in the township. He remained one year, improving his land, and in June, 1837, went to New Hampshire and was married to Sophonia, daughter of Elias and Sally Thatcher. They were married Aug. 8, 1837, and the same day started for their new home, arriving Sept. 10. They have been industrious, and now own 250 acres of fine land. They have had two children - Ira, died in 1869, leaving a wife and three daughters - Stella, Elona and Belle ; George, married Ernestine Irish, and has had four children, two living - Ella M. and Alta. Nora E. died J uly 13, 1877, of scarlet-fever, and Chancey died July 19, 1882, of same disease. Politically Mr. Beckwith is a Republican . He is an active member of the Congregational church.

John B. Bell is a native of Yorkshire, England, born April 24, 1826, a son of John and Mary (Latham) Bell. His father died in 1841, ao-ed forty-one years, and his mother in 1850, aged fifty years. He received but a limited education, remaining on the farm with his parents till manhood. In 1852 he came to America, and located in McHenry County, 111., where he has since made his home, engaged in farming and stock-raising. He owns 241 acres of fine land, well improved. He was married in 1851 to Mary, daughter of Joseph and Fannie Coates, natives of England. Her father came to America in 1852, and died in McHenry County, Feb. 17, 1870, aged about sixty-seven years. Her mother died July 4, 1838, aged thirty-three years. Mr. and Mrs. Bell have six children - John W., Charles E., Fannie E. (wife of Robert Tweed), Fred H., Thomas Franklin and Delbert M., all in Mc- Henry County. Politically Mr. Bell is a Republican. He has held several of the township offices.

G. W. Besley, druggist, McHenry, 111., was born in Oakland County, Mich., July 17, 1846, a son of William and Mary Besley, natives of England, who came to America in 1832. William Besley is now President of Besley's Brewing Company, Waukegan, 111. He has been Mayor of that city two or three terms. G. W. Besley attended school till fourteen years of age, and then went into the store of W. S. Pearce, Waukegan, to learn the druggist's trade. He remained three years, when he received his certificate, and went to Chicago, where he was employed by Joseph Sobey two years. He then alternated between Waukegan and Chicago seven or eight years, when he went to JSegaunee, Mich., where he was employed as head clerk for L. D. Cyr. Subsequently returned to Waukegan, and two years later went to Chicago, but remained only a short time, when he returned to Waukegan, and in July, 1879, came to McHenry County, and established his present place of business in McHenry. He carries a full stock of drugs, paints, oils and notions. Mr. Besley was married in 1872 to Sophia A., daughter of Samuel Cone, of Waukegan. They have three children - Dora A., Walter 0. and Mamie H. Politically Mr. Besley is liberal, casting his suffrage with the party he considers in the right. He is a member of McHenry Lodge, No. 158, A. F. & A. M.

O. Boley was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, Oct. 23, 1844, a son of G. G. and P. H. (Sayler) Boley. His father died in 1867, and his mother in 1873. He attended school till he was fourteen years of age, and then began learning the brewer's trade. In 1865 he went to Switzerland and France, and in 1868 to Bavaria, remaining there five years. In the fall of 1873 he came to America, and in September, 1874, to McHenry County, where he found employment in the brewery he now owns. He worked there three and a half years, and then carried on a saloon a year; afterward was eraployed as agent for the Woodstock Brewery a year, and in 1880 bought the McHenry Brewery. He was married in September, 1874, to Josephine Fytlick. They have three children - Katie, Josephine and Gottlieb. Politically Mr. Boley is a Democrat.

Richard H. Carr was born in Yorkshire, England, Marc 1832, a son of Mathew and Sarah Carr. In 1834 Mathew Carr, with his family, came to America. He lived in Canada three years, and in June, 1837, moved to McHenry County, III, and bought a claim of Dr. Hale, the only man in this section of the county. When the land was surveyed he borrowed money at thirty per cent, interest to make his first payment on the land he entered, and at the time of his death owned 480 acres. He "was one of the founders of the Eingwood Methodist church, and for many years his house was the minister's home, and was used for public worship. He died Feb. 7, 1848, aged fifty-three years. His wife died Oct. 1, 1865, aged seventy-five years. Eichard H. Carr was reared on a frontier farm, and had but limited educational advantages. When but sixteen years of age he was left to take charge of the farm and care for his mother. He has been industrious, and now owns 400 acres of fine land. He gives considerable attention to stock-raising. He was married Oct. 28, 1860, to Jane, daughter of Eobert and Ann Harrison. They have had three children; one is living - Luella A., born Sept. 4, 1874. Their only son, Clark H, was born Aug. 1, 1865, and died May 2, 1880; Eliza M., born May 12, 1862, died Aug. 13, 1884. Politically Mr. Carr is a Eepublican.

Eli T. Chase was born in Johnson, Lamoille Co., Vt., Feb. 10, 1827, a son of Joshua and Mary Chase, natives of Newbury, Orange Co., Vt. His grandfather, Stephen Chase, was a soldie in the Eevolution, and participated in the battle of Bunker Hill. Joshua Chase was a soldier in the war of 1812. He came with his family to McHenry County in 1852. He died June 25, 1882, aged eighty-five years. His widow is still living. Eli T. Chase received a fair education in the common schools and the academy at Johnson, Vt. In the fall of 1848 he came to Illinois and located in McHenry County. He owns a good farm of 130 acres. In

October, 1858, lie was married to Lucia, daughter of Moses and Anna Jones, and widow of Atwood Tabor. Their only child, Florence M., died at the age of three years. In 1864 Mr. Chase enlisted in the Eighth Illinois Cavalry, and served till the close of the war. Politically he is a Kepublican.

M. M. Chase, night manager of the McHenry Pickle Factory, was born in Johnson, Lamoille Co., Vt, July 21, 1835, a son of Joshua and Mary Chase. In the spring of 1848 he came to Mc- Henry County, III., and settled in McHenry Township. May 24, 1861, he enlisted in the Fifteenth Illinois Infantry, as a private; was promoted to Third, then to Second Sergeant. He participated in the battles of Shiloh, Corinth, Vicksburg and several others, serving till June 14, 1864. Aug. 24, 1864, he was married to Mary J., daughter of Peter and Elizabeth Stevens. They have two children - Lois E., born June 3, 1866, and Emily M., born Nov. 19, 1872. Politically Mr. Chase is a Kepublican. Mrs. Chase's parents came to Illinois in 1844. Her mother died Feb. 1, 1868, aged forty-five, years, and her father Dec. 19, 1882, aged seventy-five years. Mr. Chase's father died June 25, 1882.

Allen P. Colby was born June 25, 1822, in Danville, Caledonia Co., Yt., the second son of Gideon and Olive Colby, his father a native of New Hampshire and his mother of Massachusetts. His grandfather, Thomas Colby, was a native of New Hampshire. He was a soldier in the Revolutionary war, and was with Ethan Allen at Ticonderoga, and with Washington at Yorktown. After he was mustered out he returned home but soon after moved to Yermont, where he died about 1833. Gideon Colby came to Illinois with his family in 1837, and settled just north of Mc- Henry, where he died in September, 1841, aged forty-six years. His wife is living in Minneapolis, in the ninety-fourth year of her age. Allen P. Colby came with his parents to Illinois, and since attaining manhood has followed agricultural pursuits. He was married in October, 1844, to Caroline M., daughter of John W. and Clara Smith, natives of Vermont. She died May 19, 1856, aged twenty-eight years, leaving four children - Emma, now Mrs. Frank Mead; Luella, now Mrs. Charles Mowrey; "Wallace, and Clarissa, now Mrs. Bernard Harrison. Oct. 11, 1857, Mr. Colby married Emily J. Sanborn, who was born Jan. 12, 1835, a daughter of Joel Pi. and Charlotte Sanborn. Her father died Nov. 13, 1878, aged seventy-two years, and her mother is still living. Mr. and Mrs. Colby have three children - Caroline, wife of Edson Gilbert;

Charles C. Colby is a native of McHenry County, 111., born Sept. 14, 1844, a son of Page and Mehitable (Smith) Colby. He attended school till eighteen years of age and then began teaching, but having a decided preference for agricultural pursuits, soon left the school-room and devoted his entire attention to the farm. He now owns 220 acres of land, which is well improved. He gives considerable attention to stock-raising, and has the best grades of short-horned cattle, American merino sheep, Norman horses and Poland-China hogs. Mr. Colby was married Dec. 25, 1864, to Arminda F. Talbott, daughter of William Talbott, who came from England to America in 1820. They have two children - FrcdT., born Oct. 24,1865, graduated from Jennings Seminary, Aurora, 111., June, 1884, and Caroline M., born Feb. 2, 1876. Politically Mr. Colby is a Republican. He takes special interest in educational matters and has served on the School Board several terms.

Henry Colby is a native of McHenry County, 111., born in September, 1845, a son of Ira and Mary Colby, natives of Vermont. His father was born Dec. 27, 1803, and came to McHenry in 1840, and has been a Justice of the Peace of this township twentytwo years, and has held other offices of trust. His mother died in 1859. He remained on the farm, attending the district school in the winter till nineteen years of age, when he began clerking in his brother's drug store. Four years later he bought the store and carried it on alone several years, when his brother bought an interest and they carried on a general store under the firm name of Colby Brothers, at the same time running a store at Nnnda. In 1881 the partnership was dissolved O. C. taking the store at Nunda, and Henry remaining at McHenry. Mr. Colby was married Sept. 6, 1870, to Flora, daughter of David Harris. They have four children - Maud, born Sept. 7, 1873; Agnes, born Aug. 25, 1875; William, born Aug. 2, 1877, and James, born Nov. 19, 1880. Mr. Colby is a member of the Masonic fraternity, McHenry Lodge, No. 158; Chapter No. 34, and Calvary Commandery, No. 25, Woodstock. Politically he is a Republican, Mrs. Colby is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Ira Colby, was born in Danville, Caledonia Co., Yt., Dec. 27, 1803, a son of Thomas Colby, a native of Newburyport, Mass., of English descent. He remained in his native State till the fall of

1840, when he came to Illinois and settled in McHenry, living in the town about six months. He established the first prayer-meeting in McHenry. He was elected Justice of the Peace soon after his arrival and served twenty-three consecutive years. He was School Treasurer several years and held other offices of trust. He is now living on his farm retired from public life. He was married in 1825 to Mary Stocker, a native of Yermont, of Scotch descent. They had a family of eleven children - N. S., Mary A., Abigail, Sarah (wife of Robert Sherburn), Franklin, Ora, Flora, John, Gideon, Henry and William. Mary, Abigail, Franklin and "William are deceased. Mrs. Colby died in 1859, aged fifty-four years.

JSf. S. Colby was born in Danville, Caledonia Co., Vt, Oct. 13, 1826, the eldest of eleven children of Ira and Mary Colby. He remained in Vermont until fourteen years of age and in 1840 came with his parents to McHenry, McHenry County. He remained with them until 1856, and then moved to the farm where he now lives a half mile west of McHenry. He owns 144 acres of fine land which is well improved. He makes a specialty of stock-raising and has the best grades of horses, sheep, cattle and hogs. He ships his stock to all parts of the United States, receiving for them the highest market price. Mr. Colby was married Oct. 9, 1856, to Laura £. Parker, born Nov. 22, 1838, in Lyon, Oakland Co., Mich.; moved from there to Greenwood, this county, in 1854 with her parents, J. J. and Mary Parker, natives of Ontario County, N. T., but residents of Greenwood the remainder of their lives. Her mother died Feb. 9, 1879, aged sixty-seven years. Her father died Oct. 15, 1884, aged seventy-three years. Mr. and Mrs. Colby have had six children - May E., born June 12, I860; Belle C, born July 26, 1865; Newell F., born Aug. 9, 1877; Mary Laura and two infants are deceased. May was married Dec. 22, 1880, to D. E. Sayler. They are living on their farm two and a half miles from McHenry. They have one child - Maybell, born July 1, 1883.

Page Colby was born in Danville, Vt., Sept. 22, 1822, the eldest son of Page and Mary Colby, natives of Vermont, of German descent. His grandfather, Thomas Colby, was a native of New Hampshire, but moved his family to Vermont prior to the Revolutionary war. His mother died in 1828, and having previously been deprived of his father, he was left to the care of his grandparents, remaining with them till twenty-one years of age. His education was received in the district school which he attended three months in the winter till eighteen years old. He then worked on the farm till 1842, when he came West, landed in Chicago, and the next day walked in company with another young man to McHenry. He bought eighty acres of land for $130, and went to work to improve it. He now has 700 acres of the best land in McHenry County. He makes a speciality of raising fine stock and lias thoroughbred Berkshire hogs, Norman horses, and Spanish merino sheep. Mr. Colby' was married Oct. 11, 1843, to MehitableE., daughter of Abijah and Thankful Smith, natives of Vermont, who came from Johnson to Illinois in 1840. They have had six children - Charles C, Mary, Ellen A. (deceased), George W., Willard E., Ida (deceased). Politically Mr. Colby is a Kepublican. In early life he was a "Whig. He is a member of Mc- Henry Lodge, No. 158, F. & A. M., of which he has been Treasurer six years. He is a member of the Free- Will Baptist church, and has been one of the Trustees fifteen years.

J. W. Cristy was born in New Boston, N. H., Sept. 28, 1828, a son of John and Roxana Cristy, his father a native of New Hampshire, and his mother of Massachusetts. In 1829 bis parents moved to Johnson, Vt., where the mother died in 1866, and the father in 1867. Our subject speut his boyhood days on the farm, and when fifteen years of age went to Charlestown, Mass., and clerked in a store a year, then , returned to Vermont and attended Lamoille Academy six months in the year for three years, teaching school in the winter. When twenty years of age he went to Boston, Mass., and worked in Wm. P. Emerson's piano factory six years. He then returned to Vermont, and in 1865 came to Illinois and bought land in Kankakee County. In 1866 he sent for his family, and remained in Kankakee County three years, when he came to McHenry County and settled in Ringwood and opened a general store. He carries a fine stock of goods valued at several thousand dollars. In 1868 he was appointed Postmaster of Bingwood; afterward resigned but was again appointed, and is the present incumbent. Politically Mr. Cristy has always affiliated with the Republican party. He is a member of McHenry Lodge, No. 158. F. & A. M. He was married Nov. 30, 1854, to Sarah L., daughter of Zachariah and Lucinda Whiting, of Vermont. They have three sons - W. A., of McHenry; Joseph E., in company with his father, and Walter W.

1858. In 1865 his father came to Illinois and the following year sent for his family, and located on a farm in Kankakee County, remaining there till 1869, when they came to McHenry County. Jan. 1, 1869, Joseph Cristy opened a general mercantile store in Pdngwood, and is now one of the leading merchants of the town. William A. attended the common schools in his boyhood, and in 1876 entered the commercial department of the Valparaiso, Ind., Normal School, graduating in the spring of 1877. He was then working for his father till March 1, 1878, when he was employed as bookkeeper at the pickle factory in McHenry, and soon after became a partner in the firm. He was married in 1881 to Nina G., daughter of Samuel H. and Eliza H. Walker, of Eingwood. They have one child - Harold E., born Oct. 22, 1883. Politically Mr. Cristy is a Republican.

Solomon Dodge was born in Johnson, Lamoille Co., Vt., April 20, 1811, a son of A.mos and Sally Dodge, also of Yermont. He was reared and educated in his native county, remaining there till 1844, when he came to Illinois and settled in McHenry County. He was by trade a carpenter and joiner, and followed his trade the greater part of his life. He was married Sept. 19, 1869, to Mary A. Haley, a native of Illinois, born Sept. 8, 1840, a daughter of Edmund and Lucy Haley. To them were born two children - Edmund H. and Lucy A., aged eleven and seven years respectively. Mr. Dodge died Feb. 9, 1883, and was buried by the Masons, having been a member of that order several years. He had also belonged to the Odd Fellows order.

Horace Dwelly is a native of Onondaga County, N. Y., born March 9, 1820, a son of Jonathan P. and Lucy (Williams) Dwelly. His parents died in their native State, his mother in 1861 and his father in 1868. In 1843 he came, with his father, to Illinois to visit a brother and sister in Lake County. He obtained employment and remained in Lake County three months. He afterward pre-empted a quarter-section in McHenry County, but entered only 120 acres of it. In 1850 he went to California and went into the mines, remaining there two years. He was successful, and on his return bought a farm. He made a specialty of raising wheat till 1865, when he went into the dairy business, continuing this fifteen years. He is now engaged in general farming and stock raising, owning 110 acres of fine land. He was married in November, 1846, to Elmira, daughter of William and Catherine McCollum, natives of Ohio, now of McHenry. They have had four children; but two are living - Alice 0., wife of Edward M. Merrill, a merchant of Livingston, 111., and Mattie A. Mary M. died March 24, 1873, aged twenty years, and William E., Sept. 15, 1878, aged twenty-three years. Mr. Dwelly is a member of McHenry Lodge, No. 158, F. & A. M. Politically he is a Democrat.

T. J. Ellis is a native of New York, born in Seneca County, Sept. 25, 1811, a son of Lazarus and Lovisa Ellis, natives of New Jersey. His father was a miller and he was obliged to work in the mill, and had no educational advantages. Since coming to Illinois, in 1846, he has been engaged in farming, and now owns 120 acres of choice land in McHenry Township. He was married in 1834 to Lucinda Gardner. They had three children; but one is living - Amelia, wife of Albert Boone, of Iowa. His wife died in 1842, and in 1847 he married Mary Solomons. Politically Mr. Ellis is a Republican.

William F. Frett was born in Prussia, Jan. 28, 1834, a son of Nicholas and Mary A. Frett, natives of Germany, who came to America in 1841, and located in McHenry County, 111. Nicholas Frett, Nicholas Adams and Jacob Schmitt were the first settlers of the German settlement in McHenry County, and the founders of the Catholic church at John sburg, 111. Mr. Frett died in August, 1844, aged forty-nine years, and was the first person buried in St. John's Cemetery. His wife died May, 1874, aged seventy-nine years. They reared a family of twelve children. William Frett attended school in Germany, but had no educational advantages after coming to America. He was married Oct. 2, 1856, to Ellen, daughter of Anthony and Margaretha Meiler, of Germany. They have twelve children - Joseph J., Katie (wife of Peter Schaefer), Albert, John, Mary (wife of Joseph Freund), George, Elizabeth, Bernard, Amelia, Ferdinand J., Susan and Charles J. In 1865 Mr. Frett enlisted in Company E, Ninth Illinois Cavalry, but only served a short time, when he was discharged on account of disability. Politically he is a Democrat. He has served nine years as Eoad Commissioner and twelve years as School Director. He owns a fine farm of 148 acres, which is well improved and well stocked.

George Gage. - There are few men whose lives are blameless and pure, but when a long lifetime has been spent in one neighborhood, and the universal expression of the community is emphatic in praises of any individual, we are constrained to believe him, or them, as nearly perfect as 'tis possible for man to become.

There are numerous biographical sketches in this work of prominent and representative men of McHenry County, but to none of them does the historian refer with more pride than to this brief sketch of Hon. George Gage and his progenitors. Possessed of a liberal education, a heart full of generous impulses, and a desire to assist in every way all measures looking toward the advancement of the best interests of the community in which he has ever been an honest citizen, he has been universally accorded a place at the head of every social and educational enterprise for many years. Although somewhat advanced in years, Mr. Gage retains all the vigor of early manhood so far as his intellectuality is concerned. If his step is less elastic or his form not so erect as in the days of his youth, a glance at his face impresses the beholder that here " genius dwells and reason holds perfect sway." Without extolling his merits or indulging in any wholesome flattery, we are pleased to say that few men, if any, can point to their record as honest, conscientious business men with greater pride than can the man whose name heads this sketch. His acts in every sense have been praiseworthy. As a husband and father he has been kind and generous to a fault. As a public instructor, all acknowledge his ability. In his literary work, those who are best acquainted with his productions value them most highly. As a man, his conduct has ever been exemplary. As a Mason, his brethren of the craft have done him due honor. As an observing and correct delineator of current events transpiring in the neighborhood, none excel him. We are under many obligations to him for valuable information obtained, and his work is a guarantee that the statements are correct. Having been for many years a resident of Lake and this county, he is practically acquainted with many facts in their unwritten history. The residents of Lake hold him in as high esteem as do the people of McHenry County, and when all that is mortal of George Gage has been deposited in its last resting place, and those who know him are numbered with the silent dead, this sketch will remain brighter and more valuable than a granite monument as a reminder of his many virtues and excellencies of character. His ancestry for all time can trace their lineage back to this date, and a long line of excellent citizens can even now refer with pleasure to their kinsman as one whom the people delight to honor.

eon of James and Sarah (Lainpson) Gage, and Ebenezer and Miriam (Gooddell) Drury. George Gage is one of a family of thirteen children, one only of whom besides himself is living. During his boyhood he remained upon the farm with his father, workino- in the summer and attending school during the winter. When seventeen years of age he entered the freshman class at the Institute at Clinton, N. Y., remaining eighteen months. He then taught - school one year, and the following April, 1835, came to Illinois and located at Joliet. Desiring to see more of the Western country, he started North in July of that year on an exploring and sight-seeing expedition. He located a claim at "Game's Lakes," named in honor of the Gage family in Lake County. He began farming his land, and continued agricultural pursuits for twelve years, when he came to McHenry County and located in the village of Nunda. After a residence there of twelve vears, during which time he became greatly endeared to the residents of that place, he removed to McHenry, where he now resides. Much of his time has been spent in promoting enterprises which benefit the public. He was one of the prime movers in the work of securing for that village the C. & N. W. Eailroad. Several of the best residences in McHenry were erected by him, and that fine structure, the Gage House was one of his enterprises. While a resident of Lake County he engaged in surveying, in connection with his farm work. He surveyed the village of Waukegan, (then called Little Fort) together with the several additions thereto, viz.: Tiffany's, Sunderland's, McKay's, Deney's, Corey's, and the Douglass addition. His life throughout has been one of activity and usefulness, and may be considered a life well spent. Mr. Gage was married July 4, 1838, to Miss Martha Heald, a daughter of Daniel and Perris (Howard) Heald. Mrs. Gage was born Oct. 17, 1817. Her parents came to McHenry County in 1837, thus gaining a place among the first pioneers of Northern Illinois. Four daughters were born to Mr. and Mrs. Gage, all oi whom are happily wedded to estimable men. Alsena is the wife of H. C. Smith, of McHenry; Ellen, married John M. Smith, of Osborne, Kansas; Maria, married Mr. C. V. Stevens, and Georgiana, the youngest daughter, is the wife of Homer Clemens. Having seen his children all comfortably settled in life, Mr. Gage can rest content that nothing but the enfoyment of health is necessary to complete his happiness. For thirty years he has been a member of the Masonic, fraternity, and reveres more greatly than ever its teachings, fully realizing that to " square his actions by the square of virtue" has been faithfully done by him for many years. He is a Eepublican, and believes that the great party who have for so many years successfully managed the affairs of the nation shouldyet be entrusted with its keeping, but like the conservative man that he is, submits gracefully to the recent decision of the people.

Philip Gieseler was born in Hanover, Germany, March 25, 1826, a son of Henry Gieseler. He was reared and educated in his na-# tive country. He learned the mason's trade, and worked at it till twenty-four years r I age, when he came to America, and located at Louisville, Ky. Four years later he went to Chicago, 111., and engaged in the mercantile business six years, then moved to Des Plaines, 111., and engaged in the same business till 1870, when he came to McHenry County, and carried on a dry-goods store in McHenry eight years. In 1878 he bought the farm where he now lives, and is engaged in general farming and stock-raising. He owns 250 acres of good land, well improved, and his stock is of the best grades. He was married in 1850 to Dorothy, daughter of Richard Wicke. They have six children - Mary, wife of Henry Mainan; Matilda, wife of George Meyer; Louisa, Philip, Elizabeth and John, at home. Politically Mr. Gieseler is a Democrat. Nathan S. Hait was a native of Madison County, N. Y., his parents being early settlers of that county. He learned the blacksmith's trade in the place of his nativity, and after completing his apprenticeship started on a tour of observation through the Southern States. Being an intimate friend of Herman Owen, well known in McHenry County, he visited the family and was urged to locate in MoHenry, which he did, 'opening a blacksmith and wagon shop, where we afterward find Hon. Richard Bishop at work, swinging the anvil with his brawny arm. At the platting of the town the few citizens drew lots for a choice of lots, and Mr. Hait's choice was the one where his widow now resides. It was the one on which Rev. Joel Wheeler pitched his tent upon the first arrival of the family in the county. In November, 1841, Mr. Hait v was married to Miss Louisa C. Holcomb, a native of Connecticut, daughter of Alanson and Lament (Robe) Holcomb, formerly of Connecticut, but subsequently of Chenango County, N. Y. Mrs. Hait's early life was spent in New York, her parents moving there in an early day. To Mr. and Mrs. Hait were born two sons. One died in infancy. "Wilson S. is living at the old home. When Mr. Hait arrived in McHenry County his bank account was his hands, but being endowed with remarkable energy, knowing no such word as "fail," combined with a determination to succeed, it is not to be wondered at that he soon ranked among the county's most "successful citizens. Being a skilled artisan, he was visited from far and near by those in need of his services. Sept. 29, 1845, all that was mortal of one who was loved and esteemed by all who knew him was laid to rest in the village cemetery at McHenry. He left a farm of 320 acres, well stocked, and considerable town property, all earned by his untiring industry. Generous to a fault, liberal in all things, an affectionate husband and father, a man whose noble qualities won the respect of all, his death left an irreparable void.

A. H. Hanly was born in Olean, E". Y., Aug. 23, 1816, a son of Ebenezer Hanly, a farmer, who moved his family to Cincinnati, Ohio, intending to make it his home, but died soon after reaching there, when A. H. was sixteen months old. The family then returned to New York. His mother, Hannah (Reynolds) Hanly, was a daughter of Elder James Reynolds, a Baptist minister, of Tompkins County, N". Y. She died when he was sixteen years of age. He remained in New York till twenty years of age, and Feb. 12, 1837, came to Illinois, and in March following to Mc- Henry County, where, with another young man from his native town, he bought a claim. A man afterward jumped their claim, and fifty men tore his house down, but they relinquished the claim, and he then bought a half interest in a section of the farm where he now lives, giving $350 for a squatter's right. He now owns 765 acres, all available land, with splendid pasturage, and makes general farming and stock-raising his principal business. His residence is a fine two-story brick, the main part being 44 x 33 feet, with an L 40 x 27 feet, containing fourteen rooms; cost, $10,000. There is a cellar underneath the whole house. He is at present engaged in the dairy business, and stores his ice in a part of the cellar. He keeps about seventy cows. In 1869-70 Mr. Hanly built the McHenry Brick Mills. It is a brick building 40 x 44 feet; cost, $20,000. The machinery is run by a Lefel water-wheel, fifty horse-power; water brought 412 rods, from a dam in the race. The mill has been run by Hanly & Sons since erection. They have a good patronage, doing custom business. The brick for the mill and for Mr. Hanly's house were made by him, on his farm. Mr. Hanly was married in 1841, to Susan, daughter of Benson and "Wealthy Sherman. They have had five children - Emma, died in infancy; Samuel Benson, married Georgia Terrel; George Hamilton, now in Chicago ; Edwin, married Ella Shurtz, and has two children, twin-boys - George and Harry; Frank, now attending school in Dixon. In religious faith Mr. Hanly is a Universalist. He is a radical temperance man, and one of the foremost to assist in the promotion of every good work. He has served his township in several of its public offices in a very able and satisfactory manner.

John Harrison was born April 3, 1810, in Yorkshire, England, a son of Robert and Jane Harrison. Before he was thirteen years old he was bound out as an apprentice to learn the wagon-maker's and house-carpenter's trades, at which he worked seven years. He was then master of his trades, and worked at them till 1833, when he came to America, and landed in Canada, remaining there four years. In 1837 he came to Illinois, landing in Chicago, June 10. Feb. 20, 1838, he went to Ottawa, and Dec. 20, 1839, moved to McHenry County, to the farm where he now lives. He was married March 7, 1834, to Annie, widow of Joseph Irons. She had one son, now deceased. She died Feb. 3, 1852. March 7, 1860, Mr. Harrison married Susan, widow of James Haywood, who died Dec. 20, 1876. Politically Mr. Harrison is a Republican. He cast his first Presidential vote for W. H. Harrison. His parents came to the United States in 1844. His father died in 1858, aged sixty-nine years, and his mother in 1870, aged eightytwo years.

William Harrison was born in Chicago, 111., Aug. 5, 1842, a son of Robert and Ann Harrison, natives of England, who came to the United States in 1835 and located in Chicago, remaining there till 1855 when they moved to McHenry County, remaining here till their death in 1873. Robert Harrison was head engineer of Gage & Haynes's mill, Chicago, eighteen years. William Harrison attended school in Chicago till thirteen years of age. Since then he has lived on the farm in McHenry County. He now owns 210 acres of land and a good grade of stock. In 1864 he enlisted in Company I, One Hundred and Forty-first Illinois Infantry, fo 100 days. At the expiration of his term of service he enlisted in the One Hundred and Forty-seventh Illinois Infantry, and served till February, 1866. He participated in Sherman's campaign to the sea and was sent to Savannah, Ga., to assist in repairing a railroad. Sept. 18, 1866, he was married to Susannah, daughter of Richard and Ann Dean, natives of England. The father died May 15, 1880, and the mother in 1844. Mr. and Mrs. Harrison have had eight children; but seven are living - Charles "W., Herbert, John E., Clayton C, Edward E., Ora D., and Eoy C. Susan Eva was born May 27, 1878, and died March 8, 1879. Politically Mr. Harrison is a Republican.

Isaac Harsh was born in "Waverly, Tioga Co., N. Y., Aug. 15, 1835, a son of Andrew and Mary Harsh, his father a native of New Jersey, born in 1806, and his mother of Pennsylvania, born in 1812. In 1839 his parents came to Illinois and located in McHenry County, where his father died in 1854 and his mother still lives. After his father's death he took charge of the farm and has cared for his mother. Having bought more land he now has 300 acres of land, and his stock is of the best improved breeds. He was married Feb. 5, 1862, to Lodusky Parker, a daughter of Samuel Parker, a native of Vermont. They have one child - Flora M. Politically Mr. Harsh is a Eepublican. He has held several township offices and takes an active interest in all enterprises of public benefit.

F. A. Hebord was born in Ulster, Bradford Co., Pa., Jan. 31, 1816, a son of Alexander and Polly (Niles) Hebord, natives of Connecticut, aud a grandson of Jedediah Hebord, a native of Ireland, and Niles, both' of whom served seven years in the Revolutionary war. His father died in Pennsylvania in 1848, aged sixty-two years. His mother came to Illinois in 1849 and lived with him till her death, in February, 1882, aged ninety-three years. In his boyhood he worked on the farm and in a saw-mill, and when twenty-one. years of age was employed to run a saw-mill. In 1841 he began to learn the wagon-maker's trade and worked a year for $70. In 1846 he came to McHenry County and bought a farm, and in 1855 sold it and moved to Minnesota. Seven years later he returned to McHenry County and has since then worked at the carpenter's trade. He was married in October, 1843, to Eliza, daughter of Josiah and Jerusha Tuttle, natives of Pennsylvania. To them were born two children - Niza D., wife of R. Holley, of Nebraska, and one who died in infancy. Mrs. Hebord died in August, 1861, and in July, 1862, Mr. Hebord married Mary A., widow of David Plummer. Politically Mr. Hebord is a Republican. He has been a member of McHenry Lodge, No. 158, F. & A. M., twenty-one years.

five years. His mother is still liviDg there. He attended an academy in England till thirteen years of age and then began working at the machinist's and millwright's trades as an apprentice under his father W hen twenty-one he was eligible to a certificate, but being under his father did not get it. In 1876 he came to America and worked for a marine engineer at Chicago two years, and in 1878 started his first boat on Wolf Lake, Ind. In the fall of 1878 he came to IVlcHenry, with his little boat, John S. Field. In 1879 he began running to Fox Lake. In 1880 he engaged to run the Mary Griswold for Perry & Griswold, and in 1881 built and ran the Lotus for a Chicago company. In 1882-'83 he chartered the Mary Griswold and also ran the Lotus, and in 1884 bought one-half of the Griswold at a cost of $2,000, and makes regular trips to Fox Lake, connecting with the Chicago express. Captain Hill was married in 1864 to Nancy, daughter of Henry Wood. They have nine children - Alfred, the pilot of the Mary Griswold; Kate, Horace W., Percy E., Daisy, Nellie, Lizzie, Lora and Walter A. Politically Captain Hill is a Republican.

John L. Howew&a born in Groton, N. T., April 19, 1817, a son of Aaron and Mary Howe, natives of New York. His father was born Oct. 6, 1785, and died Nov. 6, 1864; his mother was born Jan. 11, 1786, and died July 23, 1868. He received a good common-school education, and after leaving school devoted his time to farming. In 1848 he came as far West as Michigan and remained there six years. In 1854 he moved to Kenosha County, Wis., and six years later to Tama County, Iowa. In 1870 he moved to Mc Henry County, 111., and bought a farm of 260 acres, a mile east of cHenry, where he lived till his death Dec. 3, 1883. He was married Feb. 10, 1850, to Mary E. Covel, a native of New York, born Oct. 30, 1831, a daughter of James and Nancy Covel. Her father died June 21, 1867, aged seventy-one years; her mother is living, aged eighty-two years. To Mr. and Mrs. Howe were born two children - Albert L., born March 3, 1851, and Eugene M., born April 28, 1853. Mr. Howe was a member of McHenry Lodge, No. 158, F. & A. M. Politically he was a Republican.

and great-grandson of Gasches Jecks, a native of France, who removed to England when a young man and was for many years Chaplain of the French Court. His grandfather died in 1838 aged ninety-four years, and his grandmother in 1849 aged ninety-seven years. His father died in 1820 aged thirty-two years, and his mother in 1853 aged sixty-four years. He attended school till fourteen years of age when he was apprenticed to learn the druggist and chemist's trade. He served four years and then joined the British army as a private and went to the Island of Ceylon. While there he was promoted to Orderly Sergeant. He participated in the Kaffir war and was presented with a medal by Queen Victoria for his bravery. In the spring of 1848 he returned to England and soon after came to America. He lived near Utica, N. T., four years and in 1853 returned to England, but four years later came again to America and located in McIIenry County, 111., where he now owns 180 acres of fine land. He was married in April, 1856, to Mary A., daughter of Wiiliam and Elizabeth Stokes. They have eight children - William A., Thomas P., Frederick, Charles E., Alfred B., Fannie, Mary E. and Alice Maud Matilda. Politically Mr. Jecks is a Republican.

Wesley Ladd was born in Hebron, Grafton Co., 1ST. H., Dec. 5, 1810, a son of William and Hannah (Pike) Ladd. His paternal grandparents came from England and settled in Massachusetts, but subsequently moved to New Hampshire. During the battle of Lexington his grandmother sat in an apple-tree all night. His maternal grandfather, Uriah Pike, and his family, with three brothers, James, Daniel and Moses, were among the first settlers in New Hampshire. His father died in January, 1818, and he went to live with an uncle, remaining with him seven years. When seventeen years of age he went to Boston, walking the greater part of the way. He worked on a farm till the next spring and then went to work on a wood wharf in Boston. The next year he went into a ship-yard where he remained several years. He then went to Baltimore, and from there to New York and Jersey City where he remained two or three years. He was in New York at the time of the big fire. While at work in the navy yard he had a cane made from a fragment of the old frigate Constitution. He left home in February, 1837, went to Buffalo, N. Y., and worked on the ship Tariff three months. In July, 1837, he came to Illinois, crossing the lakes on the old steamer Columbus, Captain Walker, and landing in Chicago, at that time only a hamlet. There being no bridges the river was crossed by flat-boats. He came direct to Mc- Henry County, took up a claim in McHeury Township and began improving his land. Three years later he went down the Mississippi, and was employed as ship carpenter five years, two winters of the time in the ship-yards at New Orleans. He was on the Eliza when it sank, and thirty or forty lives were lost. He then came back to Illinois and went to New Hampshire where he was married Sept. 27, 1846, to Caroline, daughter of James and Hannah Colburn. He immediately returned to McHenry County and commenced housekeeping in a very small waj\ Although he commenced life in limited circumstances he has been successful and has accumulated a large property, owning 500 acres in McHenry County and over 300 acres in Wisconsin. His wife died Oct. 1, 1853, leaving two children - James, a farmer of this township, and Frederica. July 2, 1854, he was married to Phebe, daughter of Edmund and Lucy Haley. They have had five daughters - Amelia, wife of E. H. Carter; Nellie O, a teacher in Burton, 111.; Carrie; Elma, wife of G. E. Stevenson, died May 20, 1881; Mary A. Mr. Ladd's mother-in-law, Mrs. Colburn, and his own mother and sister Charlotte came out after a few years and made their home with him until their deaths. Mrs. Colburn died in May, 1859, his mother in June, 1861, and his sister Charlotte, in June,1866. They were all buried in the cemetery at Ringwood. His eldest sister, Sarah, the wife of George G. Page, died at Cambridgeport, Mass., February, 1883. He has now two sisters living - Mrs. Colby, near Grand Rapids, Mich., and Mrs. Sawyer, at Herndon, Iowa. Mr. Ladd was originally a Whig in politics, but now affiliates with the Republican party.

Thomas R. Lumley,wa,s born in Yorkshire, England, July 3, 1828, a son of Thomas E. and Sarah (Wright) Lumley. Thomas E. Lumley participated in the battle of Waterloo under the Duke of Wellington. He died in 1868. His wife died in 1848. Thomas R. Lumley received only a limited education in his boyhood days, but by judicious reading and private study in later life he acquired a fund of general information. In 1851 he came to the United States. Landed in New York, and from there came via Chicago to McHenry County. In 1852 he went to California and remained two years, engaged in the mercantile business. In 1854 he returned to McHenry and bought a farm. He now owns 439 acres of choice land. He was married May 3, 1858, to Eliza, daughter of Silas and Polly Mitchell. They have seven children - Frankie B., wife of Fred Tryon, Hebron; Clinton G.; Kittie G., wife ot George Goodroe, of Elgin; Vincent, Edwin, Wallace and Stanley. In 1874 Mr. Lumley visited England,accompanied by his daughter. Politically he is a Republican.

Jacob Madole was born in Oneida County, N. Y., Sept. 5, 1814, a son of Hugh and Sally Madole, natives of New York, of English descent. In 1834 he went to Erie, Pa., and in 1840 came to Illinois and bought the farm where he has since resided. He was married May 13, 1834, to Mary A., daughter of Abraham and Sally Fisk. Five of the ten children born to them are living - Sally, a teacher in Erie, Pa.; Eunice, wife of Erasmus Taj lor; Emily, wife of Amos Lyon; Alvin, a minister of the Methodist Episcopal church in Nebraska; and Andrew, of Des Moines, Iowa. Mrs. Madole died March 6, 1851, aged thirty-three years. Oct. 26, 1853, Mr. Madole married Lucy A., daughter of Silas and Mary S. Mitchell, and widow of Matthew D. Fisk. She has two sons - Edwin S. and Judd M. A daughter, Emma, died Feb. 28, 1852. Mr. Madole is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church at Ringwood.

John McOmber was born in Massachusetts, Nov. 11, 1794, a son of A.bner and Isbel McOmber, who were of Scotch and Irish descent. When eighteen years of age he began working at the carpenter's trade, and followed it till 1874, when he gave up active business life. His early educational advantages were meager, but his mathematical powers enabled him to solve problems in mental arithmetic with wonderful rapidity. He stood three drafts during the war of 1812, but drew a blank each time. In 1837 he came to Illinois, and soon after bought 120 acres of land, where he lived eighteen years, when he moved to the village of McHenry. He was married Jan. 10, 1817, to Betsey Monroe, daughter of George Monroe.- Of their seven children but three are living - Elizabeth, wife of Samuel Greenleaf, of Waukegan; Henry and Emma. Henry was married Dec. 7, 1847, to Emma E. Thomas. They have six children - Ella, wife of Alfred Lynn; Julia E., wife of John Story ; Caspar H. , of Chicago ; Frank L. , of McHenry ; Cora B. and Alfred. Mrs. McOmber died Jan. 22, 1863. Mr. McOmber was in early life a Democrat, but later affiliated with the Republican party. He served his township in several official capacities in an early day, and for many years was a Justice of the Peace.

Henry C. Mead was born in Pittsford, Rutland Co., Yt., July 31, 1839, a son of William S. and Lucretia Mead. His father was born April 30, 1809, and died April 17, 1876. His mother was born June 26, 1812, and died Aug. 25, 1877. He came to Mc- Henry County, 111., with his parents, in 1844, and was here reared and educated. In 1859 he entered Todd's University, "Woodstock, and remained there till 1861, when, May 24, he enlisted in Company A, Fifteenth Illinois Infantry. He participated in the battles of Pittsburg Landing, Corinth, Vicksburg, Champion Hills, Hatchie, and a number of others of less importance. He was mustered out June 4, 1864, and returned home. He taught school several years, working on the farm in the summer. He now owns a tine farm, but pays special attention to stock-raising and bee-culture. He has 100 swarms of bees, and last year shipped 8,000 pounds of honey. Mr. Mead was married Sept. 27, 1864, to Lozett, daughter of Andrew and Laura Kennedy. They have had six children. But four are living - Will H, born Oct. 6, 1865; Earl Leorr, born Dec. 21, 1866, is a natural artist; Hattie L , born May 27, 1870; Leon and Lilian (twins), born Nov. 4, 1872, died in August and September, 1873; Carl E., born July 4, 1882. Politically, Mr. Mead is a Republican. He is a member of Richmond Post, No. 286, G. A. R.

Q. E. Merchant was born in Fairfield County, Conn., Oct. 5, 1835, a son of A. B. and Emily Merchant, his father a native of New York, born Sept. 30, 1811, and his mother of Connecticut, born Feb. 21, 1810. A. B. Merchant came with his family to Illinois in 1854 and settled in Greenwood Township, McHenry County, where he died Sept. 5, 1874, aged about sixty years. His wife died Jan. 2, 1882, aged seventy-one years. He was a Drum- Major in the war of the Rebellion. G. E. Merchant received a common-school education, and since fourteen years of age has turned his attention to farming and stock-raising. His farm consists of ninety acres of fine land, all well improved. Sept. 19, I860, he was married to Sarah Harsh, a native of Pennsylvania, born April 26, 1838, a daughter of Andrew and Mary Harsh. They have three children - Burton, born March 12, 1862; Ervin, born Sept. 30, 1863; and Nellie A., born June 6, 1867. Politically Mr. Merchant is a Republican.

William Nickle was born in Venango County, Pa., Dec. 24, 1826, a son of James and Mary (Davis) Nickle, natives of Pennsylvania, the father of Irish and the mother of Welsh descent. He was obliged to leave school when fourteen years of age, to assist in the support of the family. He worked in the furnaces till twentytwo years of age, when he went to Meadville and attended school six months. He then began teaching. In the winter of 1850-'51 he taught for $15 a month, and the following winter in McHenry

County for $13 a month. He was studious and ambitious, and obtained his education by his persistence in overcoming all obstacles. He has always taken first-grade certificates when they have been granted. In 1872 he was elected County Superintendent, a position he held four years. He was licensed to preach in the Methodist Episcopal church in 1882, and has charge of tbe church at Greenwood. Oct. 22, 1854, Mr. Nickle was married to Belinda, daughter of Andrew and Mary Harsh, of Pennsylvania. They have had three children - Rose, wife of Willis J". Kittle; Freddie, died when three years of age; and La Verne. Politically Mr. Nickle is a Eepublican. June 3, 1843, his mother and five of her children were swept away and drowned by the waters of Mill Creek, Trumbull County, Ohio, leaving his father, brother Lemuel and himself. His brother afterward died of small-pox in Pittsburg, Pa. His father went to Tennessee, where he died. Mrs. Nickles's father died in 1854. Hermother is living in McHenry County.

Rev. P. M. O'Neill is a native of Tipperary County, Ireland, born June 9, 1839, a son of Thomas and Catherine (Marshall) O'Neill. His father died May 8, 1877, aged ninety years, and his mother April 10, 1854, aged fifty-two years. He carne to America in 1858, and entered St. Michael's College, Toronto, Canada. He afterward attended St. Mary's Seminary, Barrens, Perry Co., Mo., and in 1864 graduated from St. Mary's Seminary, Baltimore, Md. Aug. 6, 1864, he was ordained to the priesthood of the Eoman Catholic church, and has faithfully performed the duties of his office.

E. M. Owen, one of the most prominent and influential men of the county, was born in Sangerlield, Oneida Co., N. Y., May 27, 1821, a son of Daniel and Laura (Norton) Owen. In 1838 he came with his parents to McHenry County, and engaged in farming and running a saw-mill till 1851, when he and his brothers, H. N. and 0. W., built the grist-mill in McHenry, at that time the best mill in the county. They ran this mill, and at the same time carried on a general store under the firm name of Owen Brothers, till 1858, when E. M. bought O. W.'s interest. In 1872 H. N. died, and the mill was sold to Mr. Bishop. Since then Mr. Owen has been in the agricultural implement business, in company with his son, George W., and has also given his attention to his farms. He was married in 1852 to Amy "Warner, daughter of Samuel Warner, of Richmond. She died in 1872, at the age of forty-five, leaving seven children - George W., in business with his father;

Oliver N., of the firm Owen & Perry; Mary L., wife of F. Schnorr, of Athol, Dak.; Charles S., of Chicago, 111.; Edwin W., a clerk for Owen & Perry; Louis H. and Amy W. In 1876 Mr. Owen married Lydia E. Patterson, daughter of the late Charles Patterson. Politically Mr. Owen is a Republican.