Nachusa Township (part 1 of 2)

Nachusa Township

Was laid out in the fall of 1853 on land owned by Col. Dysart and George Baugh. The following in regard to it was taken from the records: "I, Joseph Crawford, surveyor of Lee county, do hereby certify that the town of Kachusa is situated and laid out as follows, towit: upon the E. i of S.W. I and upon the W. ^ of S.E. ^ of Sec. 6, T. 21 N., and R. 10 E.

" The streets are sixty-six feet wide, and the alleys eighteen feet wide. The quarter-section line passes through the center of State street, north and south, and all the streets south of the railroad line are run parallel to the quarter-section line, and at right angles thereto; and the streets north of the railroad are laid out parallel to the railroad. For the size of lots and blocks reference may be had to the plat, where they are marked on the line in feet. At the southeast corner of block two, at the northeast corner of block thirteen, and at the southwest corner of the plat? are placed permanently in the ground good sufficient stones from which to make future surveys. The surveys done for A. P. Dysart and George Baugh. Done at Dixon, March 1, 1855.

The first to embark in trade in the new-created town was Col. A. P. Dysart, who built a warehouse and began buying and shipping grain. In addition to his grain trade he also kept on hand a good supply of coal and lumber, for which he found a ready sale, and good buildings and other improvements began to spring up all over the country.

In 1855 or 1856 Mr. Dysart, in company with a man by the name of Cunninham, engaged in the mercantile trade. Having put up a suitable building for the purpose he kept what might be called a general store. In 1860 this firm was succeeded by John Dysart & Riley, who built the large elevator which is now in use in the present extensive grain trade carried on by Joh« Dysart & Israel Slothower. The store they sold out to Mr. Wm. C. Dysart, who is now carrjung on an extensive mercantile trade in the village and surrounding country.

The first postmaster here was A. P. Dysart^ appointed by President Pierce. The office has, till the present, remained in the Dysart family, "W. C. Dysart being the present incumbent.

The school-house was built in 1868, and was first occupied by John A. D. Barnes as teacher. The building is a neat little frame structure, and does credit to the place.

The first blacksmith shop opened in the village was in 1855 or 1856, by Mr. Farwell. The present proprietor is Mr. John S. Eicholtz, who is also engaged in the manufacture of wagons and carriages.

The first school-house in the township was built and given to the pioneers bj- Cyrus Chamberlain, Esq. This building was located on Sec. 19. Mr. C. Herrington was the first teacher. Prior to the building of this school-house schools were taught in private houses by a man named Sheldon, and it is said he was the first teacher in this part of the county.

Cyrus Chamberlain was the first justice of the peace. He was also county commissioner when Ogle and Lee counties were one. Mr. Chamberlain also built the first saw-mill in this part of the county.

The German Baptist church (more familiarly known by the name of Dnnkard) was organized in what is now Nachusa township, by Bev. Joseph Emmert, who built a house of worship on Sec. 5, T. 21, B. 10, as early as abont 1850. This structure was superseded by a more stately edifice several years ago, in size 34 X 54, with basement, kitchen and sleeping-room above the audience-room. This same organization existed prior to Mr. Emmert's coming to Lee county, but was located just across the river in Ogle county. To them Mr. Emmert first preached, but for the convenience of himself, his many friends and members who were settled around him Lee county, organized as above stated, with the following members : himself and family, Christopher Lahman and wife, Jacob Biddlesberger and wife, Samuel Biddlesberger and wife, Oliver Edmonds and wife, Isaac Siets and wife, Andrew Dierdorf and wife, Benjamin Kesler and family, with a few others. With a will and determination this little band of disciples held together and kept the faith through the pioneer period, and like the star in the east, guided many good men from Bennsylvania and other eastern states who came later and joined this little company, whose members are now counted by scores, and to whose fair dealings and honest industry may be credited the prosperity of the community in which they live. Their present preacher is Be v. Levi Baffensberger, who has been prominently connected with the church for many years. Mr. Benjamin Kesler has been an elder for about twenty-eight years, and has been a pillar to the church ever since his residence in the county. In connection with this church is a beautiful cemetery, where now sleep a number of the early pioneers, the first of whom was Debbie Beever. This burial-place is free to all, and all the surrounding country bury here.

Yery early in the settlement of ISTachusa township a Methodist minister by the name of Benjamin preached to the pioneer settlers in their cabin homes. Another minister, by the name of Beed, an Englishman by birth, who has since returned to England, preached to the early settlers near Mr. Brierton's in the little stone school-house, spoken of elsewhere. Beligious services are still kept up by this denomination.

Biographical

born of poor but honest parents, in Luzerne county, in the old liilly State of Pennsylvania, reared on a farm, and educated to hard toil and industry. July 5, 1838, he married Miss Sallie A., daughter of Phillip and Elizabeth (Moore) Klintob, also a native of Luzerne county, Pennsylvania. After his marriage Mr. Depny began life himself with just what nature provided him with, a pair of strong hands and a determined will. His first work was to secure a team and wagon and a small amount of money. This obtained, in the spring of 1842 he started for Lee county, Illinois, where he arrived June 2, three dollars in debt to a friend in Chicago from whom he borrowed that amount. After his arrival here Mr. Depuy at once went to work, and when he could not succeed in getting $1 a day he took 50 cents, and so persevered until he became independent. He now owns one of the most desirable homes in Nachnsa township, besides 240 acres in Iowa. His wife died at her home, where she so long lived and where she reared her family, jSTovember 30, 1866. The issue of this union was eight children, six of whom are living : Alexander, Rosana, Maranda, Fidelia, Sarah J. and Mariam. The two deceased are Francis, aged two years, and Charles, who died in the winter of 1863, aged eighteen years. Mr. Depuy's second marriage was with Miss Tenia Bowman, who was born in Somerset county, Pennsylvania, May 9, 1828. Mr. Depuy was born October 2, 1816, and is the son of Jonathan and Rachel Winner Depuy, who were also natives of Pennsylvania.

James A. LLeatox, farmer and stock raiser, is a son of John and Sarah (Weed) Heaton, and a brother to the late Judge Heaton, of the appellate court. He was born in Oneida county, New York, August IT, 1822. His early labor was farming, but he served an apprenticeship to the cooper's trade. His education was quite liberal for his day. He attended the common schools, then spent parts of three years at Clinton Liberal Institute, where he studied all branches taught in that institution except the classics. He taught ten years in New York state. April 1, 1844, he started for the west. He landed first in Wisconsin, then made his way to Illinois, Lie arrived in Lee county in August of the same year, and engaged as a farm hand to James Campbell, then sheriff of Lee county. In winters he taught school. On April 18, 1847, he enlisted in Co. A, 16th reg. U. S. Inf., for the Mexican war, and served till its close. He then returned to Lee county. He was married June 1, 1851, to Anna M. Hetaler, daughter of Nathan and Katharine Hetler. She was born September 1, 1832. They have seven children living: William IL, Katharine H., wife of B* F. Miller; Andrew J., Charles C, Jessie, and twins, Nellie and Georgia. Mr. Heaton has owned many different tracts of land, but

Zacharia T. Stover, farmer and stock raiser, Dixon, was born in Adams county, Pennsylvania, February 6, 1849, and was reared on a farm, with but a limited means of obtaining an education, as his mother died when he was but a small boy ; yet, by a determined will, and application to study, he gained a fair business education. In 1870, in view of bettering his condition, he came to Lee county, Illinois, where he decided to make his future^ home ; decidedly preferring the prairie State of Illinois to the hilly State of Pennsylvania. October 6, 1875, he married Miss Anna L. Seitz ; she was born in Lee county, PJ-'nois, December 16, 1854. They have two children: Charles T. and Mary F. Mrs. Stover's father, Isaac Seitz, was born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, April 22, 1809. Early in life Mr. Seitz learned the trade of cooper, which he followed till he came to Illinois, in 1846. He then bought a farm in Sec. 2, T. 21, R. 10, and engaged in farming. September 8, 1850, he married Miss Frances, daughter of Charles Philip and Elizabeth (Moore) Klintob ; she was born in Luzerne county, Pennsylvania, March 14, 1826, and came to Lee county in 1848 or 1849. By this marriage he reared four children, two of whom are living, Mrs. Anna L. Stover, and Jacob E., born May 24, 1862; by a former marriage he reared six children, three of whom are living: Mary A., wife of John W. Courtright, and Isaac and Abraham (twins). Mr. Seitz is still living on the old home farm with his daughter.

DoLLivER Johnson, retired, Amboy. After a long life of useful labor, combined with a high order of mechanical genius and intelligence, Mr. Johnson retired to his farm in the southeast of ISTachusa township, where himself and his excellent wife are now spending their declining years, surrounded with the blessings of a pleasant home. Mr. Johnson was born in Bradford, Orange county, Vermont, July 16, 1800. He was reared on the farm, but at the age of eighteen, being a natural mechanic, turned his attention to learning the trade of blacksmith. This he followed till the age of thirty-four, when, seeking a broader held of labor, he entered a foundry at Boston, where ho bored and finished the fii'st brass cannon ever produced in the United States. About this time came the demand for railroad engines, and he engaged in the manufacture of these great iron horses, which were then not only the wonder, but consternation, of the world. He subsequently became master mechanic for five diiferent railroad companies, viz, the Erie, the Pittsburg, the Calais & Baron in the United States, and the St. Lawrence & Atlantic and Grand Trunk of Canada. In 1855 he came to Amboy, Lee county, Illinois, where he received the appointment by the Illinois Central Railroad Company of foreman of their machine shops at Dunleith, where he remained till 1870, when he retired to the farm, which his noble wife had been superintending from the time of their advent into Illinois, thns bringing into practice those rare talents for which her family are characteristic. On March 20, 1827, Mr. Johnson was united in marriage to Miss Louisa Underwood. She died April 20, 1835, aged twenty-nine years and five months. Of this marriage are two children : Alonzo and James, both living in Springfield, Massachusetts. Mr. Johnson's next marriage was on October 17, 1837, with Miss Lucretia, daughter of Mr. Thomas and Anna (Eaton) Abbott. She was born in Concord, ISTew Hampshire, March 6, 1812, and is a descendant of the historic Abbott family, whose ancestors (two brothers) came to America in the early Puritan days in tlie next ship following the immortal Mayflower.

WiLLixVM W, Darkee, farmer and stock raiser, Amboy, is a native of Leicestershire, England, and came to Lee county, Illinois, in 1845. During his early youth he was engaged in a mixed business of farming, brewing, butchering, and attending school. Soon after he came to Lee county he entered land in Sec. 21, T. 21, E. 10, and at once began to make himself a home, which to an Englishman is of great importance. He very early entertained the idea that to make a home on the prairie it must be surrounded with a thick growth of a large variety of timber, hence his residence is now almost hid from view in the tall timber that surround it. On January 26, 1853, he married Miss Caroline Gould, a native of Ashtabula county, Ohio. She was born January 24, 1824, and died July 26, 1863, leaving one child, Elizabeth, born October 25, 1853, who is now cheering her father's home with the pleasant sunshine of her countenance. Though she was early in life deprived of the tender care and instructions of a mother, she has those very essential qualities which are so much required to make a pleasant home - industry, perseverance and good taste Mr. Darker is engaged in stock raising as well as farming.

Samuel Crawford, farmer and stock raiser, JSTachusa, was born in Blair county, Pennsylvania, May 15, 1823. Like his father he was reared a farmer, and educated in the common schools of his bojdiood days (that of the old subscription plan). February 10, 1848, he was united in marriage with Miss Mary A., daughter of Jacob and Nancy (Wilson) Burket, also a native of Blair county, Pennsylvania. She was born April 21, 1827. In April following his marriage Mr. Crawford started for Lee county, Illinois, by the way of the rivers Ohio, Mississippi and Illinois. On his arrival in this county he at once began improving his prairie home, which he had two years previously entered in Sec. 9, T. 21, R. 10, and has since transformed it from a state of nature, inhabited by deer and wolves, into one of the finest farms in JNachusa township. It comprises 400 acres of excellent farming land. This has about all been earned by a close application to business, and is an evidence of what pluck and industry will accomplish. When he first had wheat to sell he hauled it by team to Chicago over the unbroken prairie, without roads or bridges, but he worked and waited for the railroad, and now it passes in sight of his home. Himself and his noble wife are now enjoying the fruits of their labor. They have five children living: William J., Wilson, Fannie M., Calvin B. and Lucinda A. Mr. and Mrs. Crawford are members of the Presbyterian church and hold their membership at Dixon.

William H. Fiscel, farmer and stock i-aiser, Nachusa, was born in Adams county, Peimsylvania, May 14, 1842, and came to Illinois with his parents, David and Mary A. (Herbst) Fiscel, in 1848. They were natives of Pennsylvania, but of German ancestr3\ Soon after coming to Lee county they settled near Franklin Grove, but two years later bought land in Sec. 32, T. 22, R, 10, in what is now Nachusa township. They made the trip from their native state to Lee county with a team, being six weeks on the road. At the time they came the country was quite new and unimpsoved ; grain had to be hauled to Chicago to find a market, and then sold for from 30 to 50 cents per bushel. Passengers were but poorly accommodated by the old stage coach, which is now replaced b}^ the lightning express, and passes several -times daily in sight of their home. Mr. Fiscel lived to see a great change in this county. He died in November 1865, leaving a wife and seven children to mourn the loss of a kind husband and father. William H., the subject of this sketch, coming as he did to Illinois w4ien quite young, was deprived of the advantages of anything more than a limited education. Young as he was at the outbreak of the late rebellion, he became a member of Co. G, 75th 111. Yol. Inf., and did about three years' service for his country. He was honorably discharged with his regiment at the close of the war. February 27, 1868, he married Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Mr. George Stambaugh. She was born in Pennsylvania, December 25, 1846. They have one child, Frank, born January 24, 1876. The very pleasing appearance of their home shows its proprietor's good taste.

John P. Brdbaker, farmer, JSTachusa. The Brubaker family in this country descended from two brothers who came to America from Germany, in 1771, and settled in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, from whom sprang a numerous posterity. One of the two brothers, as above, was Christley Brubaker, from whom descended Jonathan Brubaker, who was born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and was the father of Jonas Brubaker, who was born in the same county. May 5, 1801. The latter moved with liis parents, when seven years of age, to Virginia, settling near LNUichbui-g, that state. Three years later the family removed to Preble county, Ohio, where Jonas still lives at the advanced a2:;e of eighty years. John P. Brnbaker, the subject of this sketch, was born July 30, 1826, in Preble county, Ohio, and is the son of Jonas and Rebecca (Phillips) Brubaker. His mother was the daughter of Simon Phillips, of Tennessee, \vho lived near Blue Ridge, tiiat state. When twenty-three years of age he left his father's liouse in Ohio, and coming to Illinois he purchased a farm on Sees. 5 and 6, T. 21, P. 10 E. of the 4th P. M., Lee county, where he still lives. On September 7, 1840, he was married to Miss Hannah Wright, daughter of William and Eva Wright, of Preble county, Ohio. Resulting from this union were four children : William E., now residing in Iowa ; Marcus 0. died December 11, 1875, in Cincinnati; and Laura A., now wife of Ruben W. Eicholtze, of JSTachusa township. Mrs. Brubaker died October 15, 1865. On February 31, 1867, Mr. Brubaker was united in marriage to Miss Ann Sunday, daughter of Henry and Susan (Trostle) Sunday, of York county, Pennsylvania, her parents both dying when she was but a child. From the above marriage union resulted two children : Minnie May, born May 21, 1868, and Ozra J., October 5, 1873. Mr. Brubaker has served as commissioner of highways for a number of years, as school trustee for the last fifteen years, and as justice of the peace for the past ten years, and sustains the last two official relations at the present time. He gives special attention to fruit-growing, of which he has many choice varieties, his home being well shaded with thrifty fruit and forest trees. He has one brother living, Ephraim Brubaker, of Chicago, and one sister, Elizabeth, wife of Joseph Baker, Preble county, Ohio. Mrs. Brubaker has two brothers living : Solomon Sunday, of Frederick county, Maryland, and two sisters : Rebecca, wife of John Peters, of Dickinson county, Kansas, and Abigail, wife of Abraham King, of Lee county.

Ben-tamin Kesler, farmer, Nachusa, was born April 12, 1807, in Ash county, North Carolina, and is the son of Joseph Kesler, born in Pennsylvania, February 17, 1767, and removed to Ash county, North Carolina, about 1791. His grandfather, Unrich Kesler, emigrated from Switzerland when a lad, between 1740 and 1750. When the subject of our sketch was but a child he removed with ]:iis father to Montgomery county, Ohio, where the latter died September 1840. He remained on the farm until November 1836, when he removed to Darke county, where he continued the occupation of farming until 1850, when be removed to Illinois and settled in Sec. 6, T. 21, R. 10, Lee county, where he resided until the autumn of 1880, when he removed to his daughter's home in Nachusa township. On September 21, 1827, Mr. Kesler was united in marriage to Miss Sally Burket, daughter of John and Mary Burket, of Miami county, Ohio. To them were born seven children ; four now living, two dying in infancy, and Miss Anna at the age of twenty years. After a companionship of fifty-three years Mr. Kesler was bereaved of his wife and devoted mother of his children, she dying May 2, 1880. Mr. Kesler has been identified with the German Baptist church for about forty years, thirty of which time he lias held the office of deacon.

Mks. Maky (Kesler) Emmert, of Nachusa, was born April 1, 1831, in Montgomery county', Ohio, and is the daughter of Benjamin and Sall}^ (Burket) Kesler, given above. At the age of nineteen she removed with her parents to Illinois. She was united in marriage March 11, 1852, to Henry Emmert, son of Rev. Joseph Emmert, of Lee county. After marriage they settled on a farm in Sees. 4 and 5, T. 21, R. 10. They have eight children : Sarah Catharine, Joseph (deceased), Anna Elizabeth, Alora Priscilla, George Rufus, Eva Jane, Carrie Hewet, Frank Winfred, and Jesse Theadore.

George Washington Kesler is the eldest son of Benjamin and Sail}'' (Burket) Kesler, and was born in Montgomery county, Ohio, October 21, 1836. He removed with his parents to Lee county, Illinois, in June 1850. In October, 1862, he enlisted in the army and entered Co. C, 84th reg. 111. Yols. ; was wounded in the battle of Murfreesboro, being disabled from further service, and was honorably discharged. December 29, 1861, he was united in marriage to Miss Louisa M. Hunt, daughter of Otis and Louisa (Fluent) Hunt, of Steuben county, New York. She was born November 6, 1840, and removed with her parents to Lee county, Illinois, in 1861. After their marriage they settled on a farm in Bradford township, where they resided until March 1879, when they removed to Collyer, Trego county, Kansas, where they still reside. They have a family of four children : Otis B., Perlie, Jesse L. and Nettie F.

Mrs. Eva (Kesler) Lichty was born April 22, 1841, in Darke county, Ohio, and is the daughter of Benjamin and Sally (Burket) Kesler. She removed with her parents to Lee county, Illinois, in June 1850. In August, 1865, she was united in marriage to Daniel A. Lichty, who was born in Somerset, Pennsylvania, came to Illinois about 1863, and devoted some time to school teaching. After their marriage they settled on a farm in Lee county, where they resided until March 1873, when they removed to Brown county, Kansas, where they are now living. They have four children : Bernice M., Olive Mary, Malilon, and Ida Anna.

I'emoved with his parents to Lee county, Illinois. After acquiring a fair common school education he spent a three-months term in a commercial college. In 1863 he enlisted in the service of his country and become a member of the 75th veg. 111. Yols., remaining in the service until the close of the war. Besides other severe battles in which he took part he participated in the bloody battle of Perrysville, where most of his regiment fell. In the fall of 1870 he married Mrs. Frances Graves, of Chicago, daughter of Mr. George Robinson. He made Chicago his home until 1878, when he removed to Collyer, Trego county, Kansas, where he took a soldier's claim of 100 acres and a timber claim of the same amount, and is engaged in farming and stock raising.

Jacob Hill, farmer, Dixon, Lee county, Illinois. Jacob Hill, farmer and stock raiser, son of Jacob and Catherine Hill, was born in Luzerne county, Pennsylvania, December 24, 1821. In about the year 1837 he went to Livingston county, New York, where he resided for nearly twenty years. In 1858 he came to Lee county, where his father had settled two years previous. He had six brothers and two sisters, but is now the eldest living, three brothers and one sister having died. His father died about 1870, and his mother survived until 1879, when she too passed away. Mr. Hill has one brother in this county. In about 1842 he was married in New York, the issue of this marriage being two children, and he was afterward bereaved of wife and children. About one year after his removal to this county he was united in marriage to his present wife, Miss Balinda Marteeney, daughter of Jacob and Anna (Corke) Marteeney, of this county. They had by this union four children. Their eldest daughter married Daniel Linzey, of South Dixon. Mr. Hill, the subject of this sketch, resides upon the home farm, and is an enterprising and successful farmer and an esteemed citizen.

CoL. Alex. P. Dysart, farmer, Nachusa, was born February 3, 1826, in Huntingdon county, Pennsylvania, and is the son of James and Elizabeth Dysart, who were natives of Pennsylvania, but of Scotch and Irish ancestry. When a boy of eighteen or nineteen he located land in Lee county, embracing the present village of Nachusa, and in 1847 settled where he has since resided, and improved one of the finest farms in Lee county. His farm embraces 288 aci'es of prairie land on Sees. 6 and 7, T. 21 N., R. 10. In 1848 the colonel returned to Pennsylvania and was united in marriage to Miss Catharine Grazier, of Huntington county, that state, and daughter of Henry and Nanc}" Grazier, and returned to his farm in Lee county in May of the same spring. He was elected justice of the peace for two successive terms, also served on the board of supervisors for a number of years, as well as commissioner of highways, town clerk, etc. In the fall of 1861 he entered the United States service, being commissioned captain September 13, 1861, and mustered in as captain of Co. C, of the 34th reg. 111. Yols. After the battle of Shiloh, he was promoted major and received his commission April 18, 1862. On November 29 of the same year he was commissioned colonel, and took command of the 34th reg. At the expiration of the regiment's service he returned to Springfield, and was tendered the command of a new regiment by Gov. Bates, but which he declined, and returned home. In 1878 he was elected representative to the Illinois state legislature, and reelected in 1880. He is of decided republican principles in politics. The colonel suffered the bereavement of his wife, who died December 11, 1878, leaving seven children, four sons and three daughters. The eldest son, James W. Dysart, M.D., is living in Laramie City, Wyoming; two sons, James H. and Alison A., and one daughter, Mrs. Miller, reside in Chicago ; one daughter, Mrs. Jessee R. Whitney, resides south of Franklin Grove.

William C. Dysart, merchant, Nachusa, was born in Huntingdon county, Pennsylvania, July 9, 1837. His early life was spent at farming on the old homestead. During this time, however, he received a liberal education at Mountain Seminary, Birmingham, Pennsylvania. In the spring of 1866 he moved to Lee county, and engaged in the grain business at Nachusa, in company with his brother, Capt. John Dysart, and erected the first grain elevator at that place. After engaging one year in this pursuit he returned to his native state and engaged in the wholesale grocer}^ trade at Altoona, at which business he continued until in 1879, when he again came to ]Srachusa, and established himself in the general merchandise and lumber business, which he still pursues. For this business he first occupied a small frame building, which now forms a wing to his present commodious store, erected in 1878. On January 1, 1872, he was married to Sophia Barlow, daughter of Augustus Barlow, Esq., a prominent citizen of Lee county. They have had by this union one child, a daughter, Anna May, born in 1875. In 1869 Mr. Dysart was appointed postmaster at Nachusa, and has held the oflice continuously ever since, and is the present incumbent. Mr. Dysart, together with his estimable wife, enjoy the confidence and esteem of the entire community in which they live.

Wilson Dysart, farmer and stock raiser, ISTachusa, was born 'November 27, 1829, in Huntingdon county, Pennsylvania, and is the son of Joseph and Mary A. (Davison) Dysart. He was reared on a farm, receiving a fair education, also a good practical education in the art of intelligent farming. January 18, 1853, he married Miss Frances M., daughter of Mr. Sanmel P. and Susan (Rathbon) Wallace, who was born in Hnntingdon county, Pennsylvania, August 31, 1833. After his marriage Mr. Dysart engaged in farming on the old home with his father, till 1857. In the spring of that year he came to Lee county, Illinois, and commenced improving land previously entered by his father, and in the fall of the same year his family joined him here, and he at once settled permanently on Sec. 17, T. 21, R. 10, which he has since by industry and good taste transformed from a state of nature into one of the beautiful prairie homes of the south part of this town. Mr. Dysart is now (1881) actively engaged in stock raising as well as farming. This farm contains 440 acres of excellent land, highly improved. His family consists of nine children : Warren P., Joseph W., Anna M., Clarinda, Ernest S., Edith, Marian L., Edward E. and Frances E.

John Leake was born in Leicestershire, England, November 27, 1807. He was the elder son of John and Miss (Snow) Leake. Educational advantages were meager, but he acquired learning sufficient to enable him to do business, and when about lifteen years of age was apprenticed to a butcher. After acquiring the trade he and his father bought a small farm and carried it on, together with the butchering business. After a time this business was disposed of and other enterprises undertaken, but business did not prove successful, and Mr. Leake determined to seek his fortune in America. In December, 1832, he was married to Mary A. Jarvis. To them, while they remained in England, were born three sons and one daughter, the latter dying when a child. In 1840 Mr. Leake bade adieu to his family and, without a tear, set sail for New York, where he arrived in the latter part of May. Immediately he pushed on to the frontier, up the Hudson to Alban}^ via the Erie canal to Buffalo, via lakes to Chicago, thence by stage to Dixon's Ferry, Lee county, Illinois. He reached this place June 10, in company with William Moodey and Isaac Means, whose acquaintance he had formed en route from New York. Mr. Means proposed going farther, at least to Galena, but Mr. Leake said " Stay here and look about." He shortly bouglit a claim, for which he said he would not take a thousand dollars, the other men found employment, and so farther explorations ceased. And now commenced the struggle for a home and competency. Having little or no money, Mr. Leake worked at any employment within his reach, often for 25 cents or less per da}^ and taking for payment anything that could be made avaihable toward securing the home or sustenance for the family. In 1841 a business trip took him to New Orleans. Here he lived "three days on three 10-cent pieces;" then came employment and success. Returning to Dixon, he was there in time to meet his family, who arrived in August of that year. Mr. Leake sold his coat to buy a cow ; built a shanty, which was only partly covered with floor, and here, without table or chairs.

the family settled down in their own home. In the course of time there were born into the family two daughters, one of whom is still living. In 1843 the winter set in with such severity in the second M^eek in November that the family were driven out of their shanty to a neighboring log house. But noble enterprises are sure to win. This family did not struggle in vain. In spite of frequent losses of hard earned personal property, in spite of many dangers and much malarial disease, they gained ground and soon began to add to the original claim till a farm of 287 acres they could call their own. Other farms were added, till at the time of Mr. Leake's death, he could number his acres at 670. In 1867 the desire of several years was put in practice. In May he crossed the Atlantic to visit his native land. Not long after arriving in England he was prostrated by sickness so severe that his friends had little hope that he would see home again, but his strong will prevailed. He arrived at home November 1, but remained an invalid till September 11, 1869, when he died. He was buried in Temperance Hill graveyard, beside his daughter, who had died in 1862. Thus he saw his three sons and one daughter grown and able to take up the work which he had laid down. To Mrs. Leake belongs a large share of credit for the success of the family. After her husband's death she lived with her children till January 19, 1868, when she too was numbered with the dead and laid beside her husband.

Thomas Leake, farmer and stock raiser, Amboy, is the son of John and Mary (Jarvis) Leake, of Leicestershire, England, and was born at that place January 12, 1839, and came to this country with the rest of the family in the summer of 1841. Though he is not a native, he is yet one of the pioneers of Lee county. He was reared on the farm and in his youth was engaged in rural pursuits and attending the pioneer schools of the period. In 1858, having mastered all of the branches of learning available in the schools of the county, he entered Rock River Seminary, at Mount Morris, for the purpose of completing his education. In 1862 he began a theological course of training in the Garrett Biblical Institute, at Evanston, Illinois, which he completed in 1864. In the meantime he was engaged during vacations in teaching. On the completion of his course he joined the Rock River Conference and began his ministerial labors in the Big Rock Circuit. This station he filled for two years, at the end of which time, finding his health so impaired as to make him unable to continue the work, he returned home, and after a year of recuperation took charge of his farm. On February 20, 1872, he was married to Miss Martha S., daughter of Stephen T. Scoville, who was born in Oneida county. New York, March 29, 1838. Mr. Leake has a beautiful farm and nice home, much taste and refinement being displayed in their cultivation and care.

John C. Leake, farmer and stock raisei% Amboy, son of John and Mary A. (Jarvis) Leake, was born in Leicestershire, England, December Y, 1836, and came to America with his mother and others of their family in 1841. His father preceded them here to prepare a home for tliem on their arrival. This he did by entering government land in the south part of ISTachnsa township. Thus John C. became one of the pioneer children of this county and is well acquainted with all the disadvantages of pioneer life, having hauled grain to Chicago with a team, railroads then being a convenience almost unheard of in this part of the country. September 21, 1863, he was married to Miss Mariette, daughter of Leonard W. and Sarah A. (Crawford) Hale. She was born in Ohio, January 6, 1838. They have one child living, Thomas W., and three deceased: Charles W. died July 2, 1877, aged twelve years; Jennie F., February 6, 1879, aged six years, and Grace M., March 3, 1879, aged nearly three years. Mr. Leake owns the old homestead, consisting of 380 acres, and is actively engaged in stock raising and farming.

Heney Wingert, retired farmer, Nachusa, is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Binkley) Wingert, and was born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, February 23, 1804. His father was born in the same state, and his grandfather was born in Germany. Mr. Wingert was reared and educated a farmer. August 10, 1826, he married Miss Anna M. Bentz, a native of Franklin county, Pennsylvania. In 1833 he removed to Preble county, Ohio, and there engaged in farming till 1852, when he came to Illinois, and settled in Lee county, on Sec. 4, T. 21, R. 10. This was his last and permanent settlement, as he is now (1881) contentedly enjoying the comfortable home his industry and honest toil have provided. Mrs. Wingert died December 25, 1877, leaving her husband nine children living (six being deceased), viz : Elizabeth M., Louisa C, John W., Hannah, Walter J., Miriam, David, Harriett A., Leona V. Mr. Wingert began life for himself without means, but by good management he now owns, besides his home farm of 160 acres, 80 acres of good land in Iowa. He is one of those wholesouled men whose influence is always felt for good in the community where they live.

John W. Wingert, farmer and stock raiser, Nachusa, is a son of Henry and Aima M. (Bentz) Wingert, and was born in Franklin county, Pennsylvania, July 19, 1831, and with his parents removed to Preble county, Ohio, when a small boy. Here he grew to manhood, engaged in farming, and to a limited extent attending school. In 1852 he came with his parents to Lee county, Illinois, and settled in the prosperous town of Nachusa, and followed the business of farming. In August, 1862, he enlisted in the 75th 111. Yol. Inf , followed the for- tunes of war through the battles of Perrysville and Stone River, after which, on account of his health breaking down, he was transferred to the 12th Veteran Reserve Corps, and was finally discharged with that regiment in June 1865, broken down in health, from which he yet experiences much suffering, January 28, 1869, he was united in marriage with Miss Hannah M., daughter of Jacob and ISTancy Hittle. She was born in Columbia county, Pennsylvania, October 15, 1837, and came to this county with her parents far back in its early history. They have five children : Willie B.. Frederick A., Adelbert, and Bertha and Berton (twins). In November, 1877, he bought his present farm of 160 acres in Sec. 29, T. 22, R. 10, where he now lives engaged in farming.

Joshua Wingert, farmer and stock raiser, Franklin Grove, is a son of John and Mary (Newcommer) Wingert, and was born in the State of Maryland, July 4, 1829. In 1832 his parents removed to Ohio. Here young Joshua remained with his parents, engaged in farming and attending school, till about the age of seventeen. At that time (1846), in company with an elder brother, he emigrated to Illinois, and settled in Lee county, and engaged in farming in connection with his brother. December 20, 1855, he married Miss Susan, daughter of Mr. Jacob and Mary Emmert. She is a native of Maryland, and was born May 4, 1836, and came to Lee county, Illinois, with her parents in an early day. After his marriage Mr. Wingert actively engaged in farming and stock raising for himself, which business he has ever since successfully followed, and by careful management and industry has accumulated a fine property. He has three sons living: Ralph W., a fine scholar, who is now giving much attention to the fine arts; Ira W. and Lee E., who are also giving much attention to education.

Joseph Heckman (deceased) was the son of Jacob and Sarah (Bnshkirk) Heckman. He was born in Bedford county, Pennsylvania, April 11, 1813, and died June 19, 1881, after a life of patient labor and industry. He was united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth, daughter of James and Elizabeth (Mock) Rawlings, December 25, 1838. She was born July 5, 1814, and died May 23, 1879. They left a family of six children : James M., Mary E. (who is now faithfully discharging the duties of housekeeper for her brothers), Josiali S., Jacob C, John R. and Adison L. Mr. Heckm.an with his family came to Lee county, Illinois, in December 1863, and bought a farm of J. S. McNeel in Sec. 36, T. 22, R. 10, one of the most pleasant homes in this township.

David N. Steatton, farmer and stock raiser, Dixon, was born in Massachusetts, August 1, 1844. He is a son of Milo and Calista P. (Rice) Stratton. His early youth was spent on a farm, where he had and improved the advantages of the common schools. At the age of seventeen years he entered the mercantile business in Lee, Massachusetts. This he followed till the age of twenty-two, when he came to Macoupin county, Illinois, where he remained two years as clerk in a store. He then came to Whitesides county, Illinois, where he remained till the fall of 1868, when he removed to his present home farm in Lee county, Illinois. He is permanently engaged in farming and stock raising, of which business he is now making a decided success. August 15, 1877, he was united in marriage to Miss Hester, daughter of Nathan and Judali Hill. She was born in Pennsylvania. They are the parents of two children : Jennie P. and Milo. Mr, Stratton's parents are still living in Massachusetts, his father at the advanced age of eighty-two years.

Samuel Millek, farmer and stock raiser, M'as born in Franklin county, Pennsylvania, March 2, 1810. His father was killed w^hen he (Samuel) was three years old. His early youth was spent farming and attending school till seventeen years of age, when he began teaching. He became a successful instructor both in the English and the German languages. In 1832 he was married to Miss Mary Laymon, a native Pennsylvania. By this union he had three children : Mary G., Jacob L., John W. About 1840 Mrs. Miller died. Mr. Miller was next married to Mary Maune, and by this marriage had seven children : - Benjamin F., Abram C, Samuel W., Martha W., Lusetta, Charlotte A., Laura F. In June, 1865, Mr. Miller bought and occupied the old George Baugh farm of 300 acres. He has always exhibited a marked degree of industry and perseverance, the result of which is a fine farm with all the improvements that add value to any farm property.

Jonas B. Eicholtz, farmer and stock raiser, Nachusa, is a son of John F. and Anna (Boyer) Eicholtz, both natives of Pennsylvania and now residents of Nachusa. Jonas B. was born in Adams county, Pennsylvania, March 26, 1810, and like his father received a limited education and was raised to hard work on the farm. In the spring of 1861, with his parents, he settled in Lee county, Illinois, near Nachusa, where he engaged in tilling the soil. November 19, 1863, Mr. Eicholtz was married to Miss Elnora E., daughter of Jacob and Sarah (Dettro) Peters. She was born in Adams county, Pennsylvania, August 23, 1810. The issue of this marriage is one child, Oscar E., born in Pennsylvania, March 26, 1866, while Mr. and Mrs E. were visiting in that state. In 1875 Mr. Eicholtz purchased his present tarm of 145 acres in Sec. 18, T. 21, R. 10, which he has improved but did not occupy as a home till March 1880. He is one of Lee's industrious and prosperous farmers. Mr. and Mrs. Eicholtz are connected with the Lutheran church, holding their membership in the St. James' church. South Dixon.

Samuel A. Bendek, farmer and stock raiser, Dixon, is a son of John and Margaret (Miller) Bender, and was born in Franklin county, Pennsylvania, June 5, 1843, He remained at home with his parents, where he gained a fair common school education, till the summer of 1860, when he started west, intending to make a home for himself on the celebrated prairie of Illinois. He stopped in Lee county and began working out by the month on a farm, but at the outbreak of the rebellion he shouldered the musket in defense of his country, and on August 12, 1862, as an enlisted member of Co. G, 75th 111. Yol. Inf., started for the field of action. He met the enemy at Perry ville and Stone River, and was with his regiment throughout the war, and was honorably discharged June 12, 1865, having been appointed sergeant (for meritorious conduct) in August 1864. After his return home Mr. Bender engaged in farming in Lee county. November 18, 1869, he married Miss Millie, daughter of Erastus and Ruth (Wilcox) Hart. She was born in Pennsylvania, July 18, 1851. They are the parents of three children living: John F., Bessie A. and Dora Mabel, and two deceased. In the spring of 1870 Mr. Bender bought his present home farm in Nachusa township, where he permanently located and engaged in farming. His father was born in Franklin county, Pennsylvania, where he made his home through life. He died August 25, 1881. The father, the grandfather of our sketch, was a native of Germany, and followed the occupation of farmer. He came to America early in life and settled in Pennsylvania.

Jomsr Atkinson, farming, Nachusa, is a son of John and Margaret (Todhunter) Atkinson, and was born in Cumberland county, England, August 30, 1817. In June, 1869, he left the land of his birth, parents and friends, and set sail for America in the steamship England, of the National line, in search of home for himself on the fertile prairies of Illinois, and landed in New York July 4, 1869. He at once came on to Dixon, Lee county, Illinois, and hired out by the month on a farm. This he followed two years, when he rented land and engaged in farming for himself. March 1, 1879, he married Miss Susanah, daughter of Mr. John and Hannah (Skermer) Leake. She was born in Lee county, Illinois, November 28, 1847. Mr. Atkinson is now successfully engaged in farming.

Samuel Boyee, farmer, Dixon, son of Abraham and Elizabeth (Bowman) Boyer, was born in Somerset county, Pennsylvania, September 28, 1840. He remained at home with his parents, engaged in farming and attending school, till about the age of fifteen years, when he came to Illinois and engaged at farm labor till the outbreak of the war of the rebellion, when he enlisted in Co. A, 13th 111. Yol. Inf. He at once started for the front and came in contact with the enemy for the first time near Lynn Creek, Missouri. He served at the siege of Vicksbiirg and many other hard-fonght battles, and was finally discharged with his regiment at Springfield, Illinois, and returned to Lee county so completely broken down in health that he has been unable to perform a day's work since. As a recompense for injuries received in the service "Uncle Sam" is now paying him a liberal pension. March 15, 1866, he married Miss -Rebecca Emerick. She was born in Somerset count}^, Pennsylvania, July 4, 1848. They are the parents of six cliildren : James H., Barbara E., Alonzo, Maud, Goldie, and William L. In 1877 he moved on his present home, in Sec. 14, T. 22, R. 9, where he is now engaged in farming.

Calvin Burkett (deceased) was born in Blair county, Pennsylvania, December 8, 1829. His parents were Jacob and ISTancy (Wilcox) Burkett. During earl}' youth he was engaged in attending school and working on the farm. At about the age of twenty-one he came to Lee county, Illinois, by the rivers Ohio, Mississippi and Illinois. Having gained some knowledge of the business of stone and brick masonry, he engaged in and followed it for a number of years, teaching school winters. In December, 1858, he bought a farm of 160 acres from Jerdon Crawford, in Sec. 8, T. 21, R. 10, IN^achusa township, and engaged in farming and stock raising. This, however, he only followed a short time, for at the outbreak of the war he enlisted in Cheney's Battery. While in the army his health failed, and after lying in hospital three or four months he was discharged on account of disability. January 2, 1868, he married Miss Mary A., daughter of James K. and Eliza (Bruce) Henry. She was born in Huntingdon county, Pennsylvania, January 8, 1840, and came to Lee county, Illinois, in 1865. Mr. Burkett, by industry, hard work and good management, made for himself and famil}' a good home. He was a member of the Presbyterian church, as is also his surviving wife. The}' had no children of their own, but have one adopted child, Charles M. Burkett. Mr. Burkett died February 27, 1881, and was buried in the Dixon cemetery.

Erastus Hart (deceased) was born near Albany, New York, December 14, 1809. He was reared a farmer, and followed that business through life. At Rochester, New York, March 15, 1831, he was united in marriage with Miss Ruth, daughter of Mr. Daniel and Hulda (Webb) Wilcox. She was born in Black River county, New York, December 15, 1812. Soon after his marriage Mr. Hart removed to the State of Pennsylvania, and there engaged in farming. In the summer of 1865 he left the state where he so long lived, and came to Lee count}', Illinois, and settled in Dixon. He only remained there one year, when he moved out on his farm he had previously bought in Sees. 25 and 26, T. 22, R. 9. Here he actively engaged in stock raising as well as farm- ing. He died October 4, 1868, leaving, besides his life-long companion, six children, as follows : Alvisa, wife of S. Lnpher ; Mariett, wife of T. L. Slocum ; Lurj, wife of J. Williams; Levi E., Diantha, wife of S. Smith, and Millie, wife of Samuel A. Bender. Levi E. Hart, son of E. and R. Hart, farmer and stock raiser, was born in the State of Pennsylvania, August 30, 1846, and came with his parents to Lee county, Illinois. December 18, 1868, he married Miss Emeline B., daughter of Abanoan and Caroline (Fowler) Hinds. She was born in Susquehanna county, Pennsylvania, June 21, 1846. They are the parents of two children : Sybil L. and Leon. Mr. Hart is proprietor of the old home of his father, and with him his venerable old mother is spending her declining years in peace and comfort.

Francis Miller, farmer, Nachusa. The yeoman who leaves his nati ve land, dares the ocean's turbulent billows, makes his way to Illinois and here, by incessant toil and constant saving, secures to himself and family an ample and pleasant home of 182 acres of land, second to none in the state, and improves it well, is certainly a success. Such a man is Francis Miller, the subject of these notes. Mr. Miller w^as born in County Derry, Ireland, in 1833, and like his father was reared to hard work on the farm and had but few educational advantages. In March, 1852, he was married to Miss Jane Burnside, daughter of Josiah Burnside. She was also born in County Derry, Ireland. Immediately after their marriage the twain set sail in the sailing vessel Isaac Wright for America, and after nine weeks' sailing reached New York. He remained at labor in New York a few months, then came to Lee county via Chicago and Rockford. Arriving, he engaged at farm labor by the month or day. He soon purchased a small farm, but in 1872, in partnership with his brother-in-law, James Burnside, bought the farm which he in 1880 secured to himself and now owns, situate in Sec. 19, T. 21, R. 10. He deals somewhat in stock, etc. Mr. Miller's family numbers seven children : Margaret (now Mrs. R. A. Hewet), James, Samuel F., Eliza, William I., Mary, and Josiah.

John M. Allwood, farmer and stock raiser, Nachusa, was born in Lincolnshire, England, March 26, 1830. His parents were John and Ann (Madison) Allwood. He was reared on a farm. His parents being poor, his education was ver}^ much neglected. After growing up he labored as a day hand six and a half years. October 18, 1853, he left his native country and friends and set sail for America in the sailing vessel North American, and after a voyage of six weeks and two days landed in New York. He at once left there for Wisconsin and from there started on foot to a point, 200 miles distant, in Iowa, from where he soon after returned to Wisconsin, where he hired out to work on a farm at S8 per month. Here he continued a little over six years, when he came to Lee county, Illinois, and hired out to work for Mr. Abijah Powers in Palmyra. Here he remained two years and then went back to Wisconsin, sold a farm he had previously bought, and then went to Iowa, where he bought a farm of 240 acres, on which he lived about three years. Mr. Allwood at this time having a longing desire for Illinois, sold his farm and again returned to Lee county and bought a farm in the south end of ISTachusa township, where he is now engaged in farming and stock raising. October 18, 1863, he married Miss Isabella Mostoller, a native of Pennsylvania, born there in 1835 and came to Lee county, Illinois, in 1851. They are the parents of seven children, five of whom are now living : William, Austin, Edgar, George W., Mary E.; John, born August 20, 1864, was drowned in Coon River, at Booneville, Iowa, July 3, 1881 ; Charles died in infancy.

John M. Ckawfoed (deceased) was born in Blair county, Pennsylvania, March 15, 1825. Early in life he learned the trade of carpenter and cabinet-maker; this he followed until several years after coming to Illinois, having worked on some of the first mills and bridges built in Lee county. April 12, 1849, he married Miss Mary A. Dysart. She was born in Huntingdon county, Pennsylvania, March 8, 1824. They at once came to Illinois, and settled in Lee county on land he had bought previously, having been to Lee county about three years before. He died May 21, 1881, having at the time of his death become one of the largest land owners in Lee county. He was well and favorably known throughout the county, having filled the offices of supervisor and assessor for several terms. He left at his death a wife and six children : the eldest of the children, James A., died June 9, 1881 ; Milton A., Albert W., Joseph D., Frances J. and Ettie O.

John H, Abbott, farmer and stock raiser, Nachusa. In the early part of the seventeenth century the Abbots came from Somersetshire, England, and settled on Staten Island, New Jersey; from them sprang a numerous family, now scattered throughout the United States. They were prominently connected with the Methodist Episcopal church in its early history in America, and are among the first mentioned by Bishop Simpson in his " Cyclopedia of Methodism." John H. Abbott, now of Lee county, Illinois, is one of the descendants of this historic famil3^ He was born in Columbia county, Pennsylvania, November 12, 1818. He was reared on a farm by his parents till the age of fourteen. When at that age his mother died, and little John was thrown on his resources and obliged to take care of himself. After a short time he engaged his services to a Mr. L. B. Rupert, then engaged in boating and transportation, with whom he afterward became a partner and followed the business a number of years. December 14, 1848, he married Miss Ellen Shoemaker, who was born in Columbia county, Penn- sylvania, November 17, 1827. They are the parents of seven children : Elizabeth J., Amzi S., Robert M., William, Charles B., Martha A. and Mary E. In the spring of 1864 Mr. Abbott came to Lee county, Illinois, bought land in Sec. 29, T. 22, E,. 10, where he permanently located and engaged in farming. For the last eleven years he has been commissioner of highways. He is prominently connected with the Methodist Episcopal church.

Isaiah Brink, farmer and stock raiser, Nachusa, came to Lee county, Illinois, October 10, 1851. He is the son of Joshua and Rebecca (Cole) Brink, and was born October 17, 1817, in the old State of Pennsylvania. Like his father he was reared a farmer and to a limited extent attended the old subscription schools of his native state. In June, 1842, he was married to Miss Eliza Stiles, and has become the father of six children, three of whom are living : Sarah C. (wife of Perry Cromley), John L. and Charles S. In March, 1852, Mr. Brink rented a cabin near Dixon, into which he moved his family, bade them good-by, and started for California, in company with some other parties who were going to the Golden State with ox teams. He arrived there in September of the same year, and at once engaged in mining, but soon after turned his attention to the carpenter business, which he followed in connection with trading and speculating for about four years. In September, 1856, he returned home, and found his wife engaged in farming on land she had bought with money sent home b}^ her husband during his absence. Mr. Brink made his trip to California a success, inasmuch as he there made the money which gave him a good start in life. His home farm comprises 278 acres of good land. He is also the owner of considerable other property.

John R. Meerill (deceased), Nachusa, was born in Londonderry, New Hampshire, in 1804, and was reared on a farm. In April, 1829, he married Miss Lydia C, daughter of Benjamin March. She was born in Londonderry in 1805. In 1839 they emigrated to Illinois, where from its cheap lands he might secure for himself and family a home and enjoy the advantages of a growing country. He first settled in Ogle county, near the line of Lee. Here he entered land, to which he kept adding until he became the owner of a large amount of land in Lee and Ogle counties. He experienced much of the liardships and privations of pioneer life, making many trips to Chicago with a team, hauling produce there and merchandise back, sleeping on the ground and in his wagon nights, getting stalled in sloughs and carrying out his loads on his back to land. He died March 4, 1861. Mrs. Merrill (a former school-mate of the venerable Horace Greeley) is still living, at the advanced age of seventy-six years, and is now (1881) enjoying excellent health and a remarkable memory. They became the parents of two children (twins). One of them died, aged twenty years and two montlis. Tliis was a sad bereavement to Mr. Merrill, as he was a kind and indulgent parent as well as a devoted husband. The surviving daughter, Mary A., was born in New Hampshire, February T, 1831, and is the mother of five children, three of whom are living: Charles W., Walter A. and Mollie L. She has for the past two years been living in Chicago, where her daughter Mollie is attending school. Her son, Charles W. Dutcher, was married ISTovember 27, 1879, to Miss Susan A. Kennedy, a native of Ogle count}', Illinois.

William Gakrison, farmer and stock raiser, JSTachusa, is one of the early settlers of Lee county, coming here in the spring of 1845. Mr. Garrison was born in Luzerne county, Pennsylvania, July 22, 1813, and is a son of Mathias and Susannah (Sealey) Garrison. He was reared a farmer and educated to a limited extent in the subscription schools of his native state. At the age of about twenty he started in the business of farming for himself. December 26, 1833, he married Miss Amelia Oman, a native of Columbia county, Pennsylvania. She was born January 31, 1811. In the spring of 1845 he came to Lee county, Illinois, and settled near Dixon, where he entered land and engaged in farming. This he followed four years, when he sold out and bought a saw-mill just over the line in Ogle county, and actively engaged in preparing the material then so necessary for improving the wild prairie with buildings and fences. This he followed about eight years, and then turned his attention to making a permanent home for himself. He bought the KW. I Sec. 30, T. 22, R. 10 E., which he has made one of the ver^' pleasant homes of Kachusa township. Mrs. Garrison died December 27, 1870, on the home where she so long lived, after living to see her fajnily all grown and the country that was so wild and desolate all made into beautiful farms and dotted here and there with schools and churches. Mr. Garrison's second marriage was with Mrs. Lucinda Shute, October 15, 1872. She has by a former husband one son, Abram L. Shute. Mr. Garrison is the father of fifteen children by his first wife, nine of whom are living: John, Peter, George L., Hester A., Hannah, Elizabeth E., William H., Harriett E. and Martha J. Mr. Garrison has been identified with the Methodist Episcopal church for many years. When a boy he was converted to Christ, and since that time has been a consistent member of the church. Two of his sons, Peter and William H., served their country in the late rebellion, Peter in the 75th 111. Yol. Inf , and is now carrying a rebel bullet; William in Cheney's Battery.

According to tradition the founder of the Hausen family in the State of Maine was a Saxon-German, and accompanied Burgoyne's army from Europe to America in the same ship which brought that celebrated general to the shores of this continent in the time of the revolutionary war. Soon after his arrival in America Mr. Hansen declared his intentions to aid the colonists in their struggle for liberty, and at once became forage master for Gen. Washington, and rendered good service throughout the war, which gave birth to one of the grandest nations that ever existed. He finally married and settled in the State of Maine, where he reared a family, one of whom was Charles, who married Mary J. Hilton, and came to Lee county in 1840, bringing with him a family often children, the youngest of whom was Norman, the subject of this sketch, then a lad of nine years. His advantages of education were very limited, being only such as the old subscription schools of those days aftbrded, but the school of experience, from which may be learned lessons of industry and thrift, was sufficient, and our subject an apt scholar, as is proved by the success which has attended his business affairs so far through life. He began life for himself by working out by the month, and is now the owner of a good farm of 160 acres in Sec. 9, T. 21, R. 10, well improved and well stocked, besides a farm of 160 acres in Meriden, La Salle county, Illinois. He was born October 2, 1831, and married Lucy L. Herrick, July 8, 1866. She is a daughter of Hiram Herrick, was born in Yermont, and came to Lee county when a small child. They have one child, Jennie, born August 20, 1870.

George Palmer, fanner and stock raiser, Nachusa, is a son of Daniel and Christenia (Shuge) Palmer, and was born in Northampton, Pennsylvania, September 11, 1808. His early youth was spent on a farm. At about the age of twenty he began learning the trade of a miller with his father. This business he followed a number of years in connection with farming. In 1843 he married Miss Catherine Stettler, of Columbia county, Pennsylvania, and in the summer of 1846 tliey came to Illinois and settled in Lee county in what is now Nachusa townsliip. In 1849 he bought a little home of forty acres in Sec. 32, T. 22, R. 10. To this he kept adding till his farm now contains 160 acres. This he has well improved and he is able to say that he has earned it by his own hard labor and industry. This is now one of the model farms of Nachusa township. Mr. Palmer is the father of two children, one of whom is now living. Dr. Thomas D. Palmer, born August 15, 1846, is now engaged in the practice of medicine at Paw Paw, Lee county, Illinois. He is a graduate of Davis Medical College, of Chicago.

John H. Burkett, farmer, Dixon, is a son of John M. and Mary (Fleck) Burkett, and was born in Lee county, Illinois, March 28, 1854. He was reared on the farm and educated in the conmion schools and at the city school of Dixon. December 9, 1874, he married Miss Ann

Ophelia, daughter of Erastus and Mary Cortright. She was born in Lee county, Illinois. They have three children : Mary O., Annie N. and one infant. Mr. Burkett is engaged in farming. He is a clever, energetic young man.

Jacob Wektman, farmer and stock raiser, JSTachusa, was born in Columbia county, Pennsylvania, l!^ovember 11, 1811. His parents were Henry and Anna M. (Krymmin) Wertman, They were also natives of Pennsylvania; and his grandfather, Michael Wertman, was a native of Germany and came to America about the middle of the last century. Our subject, Jacob, was reared on a farm and early educated in the art of being a hardy tiller of the soil. These practical lessons were like seeds sown on good ground, for they brought forth that in after life which is the fruit of industry and a sound judgment. In the spring of 1838 Mr. Wertman left the old associations of home to seek his fortune in the then far west. After many weeks of weary travel by water and on foot he arrived in Dixon, Lee county, Illinois. Having early in life gained some knowledge of the trade of carpenter, this he now followed, in connection with other work, till he earned the means with which to enter some government land. Thus he secured for himself the foundation for his future home in Sec. 4, T. 21, R. 10. February 20, 1851, he married Miss Mary E., daughter Solomon and Jane (Buckalu) Shellhammer. She was born in Columbia countj^, Pennsylvania, August 15, 1830, and came with her parents to Lee county, Illinois, in 1837. Though but a child at the time, she well remembers the trip, which occupied eight weeks and was made with horses and wagon. Mr. and Mrs. Wertman are now spending their declining years surrounded with all the blessings that a life of industry and honest toil will produce. They are the parents of an interesting family of four children : Charles IL, Thomas J., Alice M. and Willard L. Three of w^hom yet remain at the old home. Charles H. is married and has two children : Harry J. and Herbert T.

Thomas J. Wertman, farmer, Franklin Grove, is the son of Jacob and Mary E. (Shelhamer) Wertman, and M^as born in Lee county, May 30, 1854, and like his father was reared a farmer, educated in the common schools, but was more especially trained to the realities of hard toil and industry. December 24, 1879, he married Miss Lucetta A., daughter of Harrison and Lydia Hansen, She was born in Lee Illinois, July 29, 1854.

In the early part of the present century Mr. William Brandon emigrated from the north of Ireland to America, and settled in Pennsylvania. Soon after coming to America he married Triphenia, a daughter of Benjamin Fuller, Esq., a native of Massachusetts. Of this union were fourteen children, one of whom was Benjamin F., the subject of this sketch. He was born January 11, 1814, in Luzerne county, Pennsylvania. His early youth was spent with his parents on a farm and attending the old subscription schools of his boyhood days, the latter only to a limited extent. In the fall of 1837 Mr. Brandon left his native state, as well as his old associates, and started for the proverbial green fields, and after a thirty-four day's trip by land and water arrived on the enchanting prairie lands of Lee county, Illinois. His first location was made near Dixon, where he bought a claim, but a few years later bought the farm where he now lives. Although it was then but a wild prairie, it now has an air of home comfort, and contentment. Its thrifty fruit-trees and beautiful large black-walnut groves indicate the proprietor to be a man of good taste and industry. October 8, 1841, Mr. Brandon was married to Miss Margaret, daughter of Elisha Courtright, Esq. ; she was born in Luzerne county, Pennsylvania, February 15, 1825, and came to Lee county with her parents in an early day. They have six children: Charles D., Milton R., George W., "William, Sarah T. and Anna O. Mr. and Mrs. Brandon are members of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Jacob Emmert, retired farmer, Nachusa, is the son of Joseph and Catherine (Avey) Emmert, and was born in Washington county, Maryland, July 23, 1807. He was reared a farmer, which business he followed through life. December 16, 1830, he married Miss Mary Newcomer, also a native of Washington county, Maryland. She was born February 15, 1811. In 1844 they came to Illinois and settled in Ogle county, but one year later removed to near where he now lives in Lee county. He is the father of eight children, five of whom are living: Zachariah, William H., Jacob M., Susan, and Catherine. Jacob M. enlisted in Co. C, 34th 111. Vol. Inf., in September 1861, and followed the fortunes of war nearly four years. In the fall of 1864 he was detached as sergeant of Gen. Jefferson C. Davis' escort, but again joined his regiment. He was at tlie grand review at Washington, and was finally discharged with the glorious old 34th in 1865. December 12, 1870, he married Miss Mary E. Ohmert, of Lee county ; they have two children : Gracie L. and Kittie C.

Marshall McISTeel, farmer and stock raiser, JSTachusa, was born in Pennsylvania, May 29, 1836, and came to Lee county, in company with his parents, in April 1847, when a lad of eleven years. Here he grew to manhood, with but a limited means of gaining an education. His few spare moments, however, were devoted to his books, but the greater portion of his time was employed in the hardy pursuit of the labors of improving a farm on the wild prairie. At the time he settled here the country was without the^ advantages of a market nearer than Chicago, where he has hauled wheat with an ox team, the average time of mak- ing a trip being about thirteen days, sleeping on the ground or in the wagon as he could catch it. Hauling wheat over 100 miles, fording streams and wading mud, would not pay hotel fare. When Mr. Mc- Neel's parents, Thomas C. and ISTancy (Russell) McNeel, started in Lee county, they were $80 behind an even start with the world, but by hard work and good management they succeeded in making a good home for themselves and family. Mr. MclSTeel died in April 1876 ; his ancestors were from the north of Ireland. Mrs. McNeel died August 2, 18S1. Marshall, the subject of our sketch, was first married October 2o, 1862, to Miss Anna E. Sharrar ; she died August 1, 1877. His present wife was Charlotte E. Miller, to whom he was married August 8, 1878 ; she was born in Pennsylvania, December 25, 1845. It is but just to say of Mr. McNeel that his home is one of the neatest in the township.

JoHx S. EicHOLTZ, wagon and carriage maker, Nachusa, is a son of William and Lydia (Hanes) Eicholtz. He was born in Adams county, Pennsylvania, September 24, 1842. His early 3'outh was spent on the farm. He received a good business education. After he grew to manhood he engaged in farm labor till the spring of 1868, when he came to Lee county. A few months later he became an apprentice in the wood-work department of the wagon and carriage shops then in operation at Nachusa, and of which a few years later he became the proprietor, and where he is now, in 1881, actively engaged in the manufacture of a superior class of wagons and carriages. In connection with this business he has a blacksmith and general repair shop. Thus, while many have continued as day laborers, Mr. Eicholtz has by industry, fair dealing and good management built up for himself a trade and reputation of which any young man should have a just reason to be proud. December 2, 18G9, he married Miss Charlotte Stover, a native of Pennsylvania. By this union he has four children : William B., Harry M., Edith M. and Maud May.

Jacob Hittle (deceased) was born in Columbia county, Pennsylvania, May 8, 1807. The business of his life was farming. August 9, 1835, he was united in marriage with Miss Nancy Kulp. She was born in Columbia county, Pennsylvania, September 11, 1811, and is still living on their old home in Lee county, Illinois, where they settled as early as 1841. Mr. Hittle died February 6, 1877, after a life of hard labor and industry, leaving to his family a comfortable home of 200 acres of excellent land. Mr. and Mrs. Hittle were among the sturdy pioneers of Lee county, whose word was considered as good as their bond. In his will Mr. Hittle wisely set oft to his daughter Mary E., 40 acres of his farm, on account of her being in delicate health. The members of his family now living are, besides his wife, Fannie, wife of

Nachusa Townhip

John A. Sleer, now living in Carroll county, Illinois; Hannah M., wife of J. "W. Wingert; Mary E., Alexander P. and Samson C, born in Lee county, Illinois, December 27, 1847. He was married February 5, 1874, to Miss Caroline Allbright, a native of Pennsylvania. She was born April 11, 1852, and came to Lee county with her parents when a child. They have two children : Anna J. and Elvie E. Mr. Hittle is now in charge of the old home farm, and is engaged in farming and stock raising. He is a thorough, industrious young man, warm-hearted and friendly almost to a fault, yet careful and prudent at all times.

Chester Harrington, stock raiser and farmer, Nachusa, came to Lee county, Illinois, in 1837, from the State of New York, making the tri]3 wMth a team of horses and a wagon. He was born in Washington, New York, August 22, 1813, and is the son of Ebenezer and Paulina (Donlen) Harrington. He was reared a .farmer, and educated in the common schools of his native state, finishing his education in the Homer Academy, in Cortland county, New York. He early engaged in teaching, but principally followed the business of farming through life. Soon after his arrival in what is now Lee county he bought a claim of Moses Crombie, and when the land came into market entered and bought it from the government. This farm he still (1881) owns. November 14, 1843, he married Miss Zerina, daughter of Cyrus and Pluma (Burton) Chamberlin, a native of the State of New York. The issue of this marriage is three children living: Inez lone, Chester E. and Cyrus C. Mr. Harrington has always made it his home in this county, except fourteen years spent in Ogle county, where he also owned a farm. While in Ogle county he was four times elected by the people of Grand Detour township to fill the position of supervisor, and was in the spring of 1881 elected supervisor of the township of Nachusa. Besides the first land he entered in Sec. 13, T. 22, K. 9, he also owns a farm of 160 acres in Sec. 19, T. 21, R. 10. Mr. Harrington's principal business is stock raising, though he also farms to some extent.

John Garrison, farmer and stock raiser, Nachusa, is a son of William and Amelia (Oman) Garrison, and was born in Columbia county, Pennsylvania, July 29, 1835, and came to Lee county, Illinois, with his parents in the spring of 1845, arriving here June 4. Thus it will be seen that John Garrison early became identified with Lee county. He was raised on the farm and educated as a hardy son of toil, with but a very slim chance of school learning. March 26, 1861, he was united in marriage with Miss Maranda, daughter of Mr. Jonathan and Sallie A. (Klintob) DePuy. She was born in Luzerne county, Pennsylvania, June 3, 1842, and came to Lee county with her parents when a small child. They are the parents of eight children :

Emma J., wife of C. B. Brader; Charles A., Addie M., George H., Priscilla M., Lucinda R., Elizabeth E. and Jacob F. In the spring of 1866 he moved on the farm where he now lives, in Sec. 25, T. 22, R. 9. His real estate comprises 240 acres of good land. His home farm is one of the very desirable ones of l!^achnsa township. He is engaged in stock raising as well as farming.

ALEXANDEKDEPuY,farmer and stock raiser, Nachusa, son of Jonathan and Sallie A. (Klintob) DePny, was born in Luzerne county, Pennsylvania, December 7, 1838, and came to Lee county, Illinois, with his parents in 1846. Here young Alexander grew to manhood, with only such educational advantages as were afforded in this county at that time. Like his father he was reared a farmer and thoroughly trained in all that pertains to agricultural pursuits. In 1861 he enlisted in Co. C, 34th reg. 111. Vol. Inf. He took part in the great battle of Shiloh; was with his regiment during its three years' campaigns; reenlisted as veteran with the same company and regiment, and with the same was honorably discharged in 1865. February 15, 1866, he married Miss Mary A. Bitner, a native of Somerset county, Pennsylvania. She was born June 11, 1840. They have no children of their own, but have an adopted child, Daisie May. Mr. DePu}^ is now activeh^ engaged in farming and stock raising. His home is one of the beautiful locations of this township.

Geoege J. GiTT, farmer and stock raiser, Nachusa, son of William and Lydia (Wilt) Gitt, was born in Adams county, Pennsylvania, October 5, 1844. During his early youth he lived in town, but was principally engaged in working on a farm and to a limited extent attended school, and by applying himself to study and observation he has gained a fair business education. In 1863 he became a soldier in the war for the Union in the 165th Penn. Inf. After his discharge he engaged in railroading. In the spring of 1865 he came to Lee county, Illinois, and began working on a farm by the month. May IS, 1868, he married Miss Samantha, daughter of James Dawson, a native of LTnion county, Ohio. They have two children : Cora M. and James W. In March, 1873, Mr. Gitt took charge of the old and well known farm of Joseph Crawford, Esq., and still continues to successfully carry on the business of farming and stock raising.

Henry Bothe, farmer and stock raiser, Amboy, was born near Mindon, Prussia, December 26, 1841 ; he was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools of the country of his birth. In the summer of 1859 he left the home of iiis childhood and sailed for America, landing in Baltimore July 4 of the same year. Four days later he came to Lee county, Illinois. Here he found his father, wlio had preceded the family to prepare a home for them on their arrival.

Here young Henry engaged in farming with his father till September 9, 1861, when he enlisted to fight the battles of his adopted country^ but was discharged on account of disability, September 8, 1862, thus losing his bounty due him as a three-years soldier. For a number of years Mr. Bothe suffered from the effects of disease contracted while in the army. He was married September 4, 1864, to Miss Catherina Hotzel. She was born in Germany, January 14, 1844, and came to this country in 1847 with her parents and settled in Lee county. They are the parents of eight children : Fredrick W., Anna E., John H., Christian F., Minnie H., Elvina C, Katie M. and Lillie C. In 1868 Mr. Bothe bought his present home farm of 132 acres, in the south part of Nachusa township, where he is engaged in farming and stock raising, and by prudence, industry and good management is making it a success.

Israel Slothower, grain dealer, JSTachusa, was born in Adams count}', Pennsylvania, April 24, 1843. He was reared a farmer, as was also his father, who died when Israel was but three years old. His educational advantages were only such as the common schools of his native state afforded. At the age of eighteen ^^ears he entered as an apprentice to a blacksmith. After learning the trade he followed the business till he entered the army as a soldier in the war for the Union. After his discharge he came to Lee county and engaged in the blacksmith business at Nachusa. This he followed three years, then went to Iowa, bought, opened up and improved a farm, which was, on June 18, 1870, swept over by a terrible tornado, completely demolishing his new home and all his improvements, the accumulation of years of labor and industry. He, however, again rebuilt his home, but soon after sold out and returned to Nachusa and engaged his services to Mr. John Dysart, then in the grain trade at Nachusa, and two years later became partner with Mr. Dysart in the business and has since managed the business to the entire satisfaction of all parties. His wife was Miss Jennie A. Stover, a native of Pennsylvania. They have three children : Anna JST., Retta B. and Carrie.

Source changes here: from History of Lee County, Illinois, by Stevens, Frank Everett, published 1914; 3,335 words in this source stream.

Nachusa Township

Nacliusa and China were together for so long a period as China township that t(j treat of Naehnsa alone involves considerable repetition necessarily. Bnt Nachusa history is worth repeating many times. Her pioneers indeed were the salt of the earth and rendered to Lee county services which never grow old with the telling, no matter how crndely told.

On Nov. 10, 1870, Col. Alexander P. Dysart presented to the board of supervisors a petition praying that a new township be erected. This petition evoked powerful opposition and a strong remonstrance was presented to the board by Robert L. Irwin of China township (Franklin Grove) against the innovation. Both petition and remonstrance were laid upon the table until the next session of the board, leaving an interim in which to plan the battle royal.

On Tuesday, Feli. 7, 1871, on motion of Supervisor Viele, the petition was taken from the table and the board having heard and considered carefully both sides of the question, ordered that the prayer of the petition be granted, and the township of Nachusa was created. Alexander P. Dysart, who presented the petition, was a hard man to defeat and he proved his generalship in this undertaking by winning handsomely.

The early and easy settlement of Nachusa may l)e attributed to the circumstance of its pi'oximity to Inlet, imperious Inlet, on the south and Rock river on the north. Messrs. Bennett and Brown from New England Avere the first settlers of this township, laying claims in section 14, which now belongs to Dixon township b,v a recent fiat of the supervisors. This was in 1835.

"Squire" Cyrus Cliambeiiaiu located iu the same year, and iu section 19. A Mi-. Eldridge came the same year and settled in section 19. So too did a JNIr. Hollingshead, who took up his claim in section 19.

Joseph Crawford, so long and honorably known to the people of Lee count}', came here in 1835 and for a year he lived with Mr. Hollingshead. From the day Mr. Crawford struck Lee county he kept a diary of his life and its transactions and it is preserved today by his sou, J. W. Crawford. It is tilled with interesting stories which go to make up the real history of Lee county. After the year spent with Mr. Hollingshead, Mr. Crawford removed to Dixon, and ever afterwards lived in Dixon, becoming its mayor, a member of the Legislature and otherwise one of its leading citizens.

In 1836 Jolm ('hambcrlain l)()Ught the Hollingshead claim, latei' the Stiles farm. In the same year a Mr. Fisk came out from Pennsylvania, bringing with hmi a stock of goods with which he l)egan a Ijusiness in tlie house formerly occupied by Mr. Hollingshead.

Barclay Smith came in 1836 and bought the lower ferry farm, now in Dixon township, on section 14. Messrs. Crandall, Jerry Murphy and Josiah Moores came a little latei'.

Down in the southern end of the township, contiguous to the old Chicago stage road, a Mr. Jones came first and located on sccti(»n 20. In 1838, Dr. Charles Gardner selected a claim in section 20. He I'cturned to his eastern home in Rhode Island and in Felu'uarv, 1839, he returned with his lumsehold goods traveling practically the route i>ursued by Covernor Chartei's. From Newpoi't, Rhode Island, he shipped his goods by sloop to New Orleans. From there they were taken up the Mississippi river by keel boat to the mouth of the Illiuois river ; thence up that stream to Peru, where they were unloaded and taken liy team over to Inlet and the home farm.

Rev. Erastus DeWolf, from Rhode Island, related by mar- 3'iage to INIrs. Chailes Gardner, came ahout the same time as Doctor Gardner, and liought Mr. Jones' claim. He was an Episco])al minister and he had much to do, I am told, Avith the erection of the Episcopal church in Lee Center.

Buiing the years 1839 and 181:0 malarial fever and bilious fever prevailed to an alarming extent throughout these new settlements. While it was not necessarily fatal, deaths did occur and it swe})t nearly everybody into a bed of sickness of varying length. It was the fever and ague with which old books teem.

On section 22, now in Dixon township, the first cemetery was established on the farm of John Hetler. It was abandoned, however, soon after and the later one was established by Josiah Moores on the southeast quarter of section 23, now in Dixon township. Sadly coincident with this location. Mr. Moores was the first to be liuried in the new cemetery.

Joseph Brierton came here in 1836. Inasmuch as his claim is now included in Dixon township, it would be Ijetter to defer remarks al)out him for Dixon, although by every association he should be regarded a Naehusa man along with his other neighbors of the kingdom.

Mrs. M. D. Oilman in speaking of the kingdom once bearing the prefix smelling of the brimstone which the proprietor's name is apt to carry, mentions a fact that a brother of Emma Abbott built a sawmill in the neighborhood, in which lum])ei' was sawed and shingles were made. This was in the spring of 1838. It was located on Atwood creek. The same man afterwards built a chair factory on the banks of the creek south of the bridge. Subsequently he sold out his holdings to Atwood.

Along the Chicago road there settled Ludlam Ayres, Levi Green, Thomas Hopkins, William Parker, William Richardson, James Goddard and Don Cooper, most of them in the forties. Some of them, however, from recent changes of boundary, would have to be classed old settlers of Dixon.

The boiuidaries of Xaehusa have been changed more frequently than those of any other township and one is led a merry chase to keep track of the western and northwestern boundary of the township for any length of time. Don Cooper sold his claim to Joseph Emmert, a man of means and tremendoTis energy. The next year he built the best improvements on the place to be found in Lee county. The residence was a fine two-story affair and the barn was a very large one, its sills and timbers all being hewed from hardwood trees. It was the first large barn built in the county. In the 3-ear 1850 Mr. Enunert built a large flouring mill on Franldin creek. It was the first one built in the

In the 3'ear 1847 Alexander P. Dysart, later colonel of the Thirty-fourth Regiment, Illinois Volunteers, purchased the claim of Thomas Hopkins and entered other lauds from the Government. In the year 1846 John M. Crawford and Samuel Crawford came to Nachusa township and located on lands which they held until their respective deaths.

These two families, the Crawfords and the Dysarts, were large families, and to this very day their children and grandchildren are niunerous. I do not know the family that ever resided in Lee ct)unty better qualified to receive honor from the historian or biographer than the Crawfords and the Dysarts. They were promient in all the useful walks of life. They were people of strong character. They were fearless; the}' were upright and generous and enterprising and in tlie upbuilding of this county they have been powerful factors. The last of the old guard has gone to his reward, but long after the names of Crawford and of Dysart shall go down before the Reaper, the names of the old pioneer members of those families will live in the memory of Lee county people.

The village of Nachusa was platted by Joseph Crawford, county surveyor, JNIarch 1, 1851, and Col. Alexander P. Dysart and George Baugh were proprietors of the townsite. At first it was named Taylor, but with time the names of the township and the village were made identical.

About the time of the platting A. P. Dysart and a man named Cunningham erected a store and entered the mercantile business. About 1860 John Dysart and a Mr. Riley succeeded to the business and in conjunction they erected a grain elevator.

The first postmaster was Alexander P. Dysart and almost continuously ever sinct' some memlier of the Dysart family has been the postmaster. The first school in the township, built of stone, was erected l)y Cyi'us Chamberlain and presented to the school district. It was Located on section 19. Mr. Chester Harring-ton was the fii'st teacher. Prior to its erection, schools were taught in ])rivatc houses by a man named Sheldon, who was the first teacher in the townshi}). Cyrus Chamberlain was the first justice of the peace and he was the first master in chancery as well. He also built the first sawmill in this part of the county.

AVhen Lee and Ogle counties were united as one under the name Ogle, Cyrus Chanil)erhun was one of the county couunissioners. During all his life he was an active, whole-souled, generous man of affairs, always read_y and willing to contribute liberally of his time and means to push the interests of his county or his neighborhood.

After reading the di'lightful relation by Mrs. E. C. Smith (Sephie Gardner) of the trials of her parents, Doctor and Mrs. Charles Gardner, the history of Nachusa in a general way looms up big and forceful. The family lived on the Chicago road, six miles from Dixon, six miles from Inlet Grove, six miles from Palestine Grove and six miles from Franklin Grove. Emigrants by the hundreds passed their home. The reputation of kind Mrs. Gardner had gone l^ack east and almost every emigrant knew Mrs. Gardner and her deeds of kindness long lief ore entering the Inlet coimtry. Many times indeed T am afraid the dear lady was taken advantage of hy impecunious, though agueish emigrants. Her aimt, Mrs. Erastus DeWolf, came west and bought a place about a mile from the (^Jardners and in Amit Hannah's parlor the first Siuiday school ever held in the townsliip was held. The ver}^ first school, too, ever tarught in the township, Mrs. Smith insists was taught in Aunt Flannairs house. Prior to that time the children had been sent to Mrs. Edson's in South Dixon. The first teacher in Mrs. DeWolf 's house was Miss Betsey De- Wolf, who married John Barnes, a brother of Uzal and Nelson Barnes.

The first death in the township was of "Old Michael," a man who worked for Mrs. DeWolf. This was about the year IS-iO, and at the time ]\L's. DeWolf g;n-e the little l^urying ground which MichaeFs grave dedicated, to be used for cemetery purposes. It was in the northwest part of the farm and is called the DeWolf cemetery to this day.

In J8I2, or 1841 perhaps, the first schoolhouse in the south end of the township was built and Miss Betsey DeWolf taught there ; also a Miss Hunter. The school afterwards was moved to the southwest corner of the Gardner place, where it was known as the Locust Street place, from the numl^ers of locust trees gr(A\iiig there. ])lanted by Dr. Gardner.

back at Newport, Rhode Island. Among the good old names associated with the name and life of Mrs. Gardner are Mrs. William W. Heatou, Mrs. O. F. Ayres (who lived at Inlet for a while), Mrs. Seaman and Mr-s. Silas Noble, all of Dixon ; Mrs. Charles F. Ingalls, Mrs. Hannmn, j\Irs. Abram Brown and Mrs. Sarah Trowbridge, names to endure as long as grateful memories are permitted and as long as the Lee coimty chronicler will take the trouble to write accurately.

I might add also the names of Mrs. William Y. Johnson, Mrs. Ozias Wheeler, Mrs. J. T. Little, Aunt Sally Herrick, Mrs. Alonzo Mead, Aunt Polly Hale. Never has story been told better of the cares of the country doctor than by Mrs. Smith when writing of her father's experience.

"My father came west with the intention of becoming a fanner and giving u]) the medical work, which had been so severe a tax upon him and mothei' in Newport, but it was simply inhuman to refuse to give what aid he could to the sick and suffering in the new coimtry. He was far too warm-hearted to consider personal comfort when weighed against such odds.