Orvil Township

Orvil Township

Orvil Township is in the north tier of townships, and is bounded on the north by Tazewell County. To the east lies Eminence Township, to the south, West Lincoln Township, and to the west, Prairie Creek Township. Sugar Creek flows along its southern border. The township is crossed diagonally by the Peoria, Decatur & Evansville Pailroad, with two stations - Emden and Hartsburg - in this township. Much of the land in Orvil is owned by William Scully, of London, England, and is rented to tenants.

Official

1867 - Supervisor, Thomas Quisenberry; Clerk, Edwin Barnum; Assessor, F. A. Musick; Collector, M. A. Miles; Highway Commissioners, Henry Musick, William Willis and R. R. Hatfield; Justices, Norman Sumner and Preston P. Brady; Constables, E. Woland and Elisha B. Ashley.

1868 - Supervisor, Henry Musick; Clerk, James W. Mead; Assessor, F. A. Musick; Collector, M. A. Miles; Highway Commissioner, Daniel Baldwin.

1870 - Supervisor, Berry Musick; Clerk, James N". Longan; Assessor, Matthew McElhiney; Collector, James W. Mead; Highway Commissioners, H. A. J. Paul and Sylvester Harts; Justices, William King, John Matlock and Charles Dorsey; Constables, E. R. Woland and James Wickersham.

1873 - Supervisor, E. E. Hatfield; Clerk, Arthur P. Miller; Assessor, Matthew McElhiney; Collector, James N. Longan; Highway Commissioners, Alfred Harpole, James O'Brien and John A. Small wood; Justices, A. Lewis Kellogg and Norman Sumner; Constable, Charles W. E. Fulsom.

1874 - Supervisor, E. E. Hatfield; Clerk, John A. Hogue; Assessor, John Westfall; Collector, J. A. Longan; Highway Commissioners, William Willis and James Hitchel; Constable, Henry Sinderson.

1877 - Supervisor, P. P. Brady; Clerk, John A. Hogue; Assessor, F. A. Mnsick; Collector, J. E. Longan; Highway Commissioner, Lubbert Lubbers; Justices, D. J. Hogue and O. H. P. Hammitt; Constables, Samuel Mangus and W. T. Carnahan.

1880 - Supervisor, John A. Hogue; Clerk, James O. Brady; Assessor, M. A. Miles; Collector, James N. Longan; Highway Commissioner, John W. Jackson.

1881 - Supervisor, John A. Hogue; Clerk, H. Krommenga; Assessor, James N. Longan; Collector, E. L. Carnahan; Highway Commissioner, William Huston; Justices, D. J. Hogue, John Mickle and Carl Ley; Constables, Charles E. Burrows and B. F. Temple.

1885 - Supervisor, Jacob Morris; Clerk, John A. Hogue; Assessor, John H. Smalley; Collector, John E. Miller; Highway Commissioner, George W. Taylor; Justices, Carl Ley and John Mickle; Constables, J. N. Longan and B. F. Temple.

Statistics

Orvil Township had 1,196 inhabitants in 1870, and this figure was increased to 1,521, more than 25 per cent., by 1880. There are now about 1,600 inhabitants.

Political

in Orvil Township, about eight miles north of Lincoln, on the Peoria, Decatur & Evansville Railroad, was laid out by Thomas G. Gardner, County Surveyor, June 22, 1871. Captain D. H.

Harts, was the owner of the plat, and for him the survey was made, and from him the town took its name. The first merchant in town was E. E. Woland, who conducted the business for Henry Euhack, of Pekin, proprietor. J. E. Miller opened the second store. The next was started by J. D. Hoyne, and the fourth by L. Nail. In 18T4 A. W. Eay erected the present elevator, on the site of a small one he used a year or two previously. A good trade in grain is now maintained.

P. P. Brady erected the first dwelling in town, and J. A.Musick, whose parents were the first settlers in this part of the county, built the second.

Until 1876 school was conducted only in the district schoolhouse, a short distance from town. In that year the present school-house was erected.

The German Lutherans and Methodists hold services here on alternate Sundays, Eev. Lang, of Emden, preaching for the former, and Eev. Counselman for the latter. The English Methodists have a society, and occasionally hold services in the German church.

a village of about 200 inhabitants, is situated in the north part of the county, in Orvil Township. The village is the result of the Pekin, Lincoln & Decatur Eailroad passing through this township. It was completed in 1871, and on June 15 the town was surveyed by Thomas G. Gardner, County Surveyor, for John M. Gill, of Pekin, Illinois, the original proprietor. The land before comprised part of the farm of A. J. Snyder, and at the date of the survey two houses were standing on the plat. The first store was built by B. F. Burnett, the first postmaster and depot agent. During the summer of 1873 the first elevator in town was built by A. W. Eay. The second elevator was built in 1875 by Smith, Kippen &Co.

Biographical

George G. Betzleherger w&& born in Wurtemburg, Germany, June 19, 1826. He was reared on a farm and resided in his native country until 1853, when, on March 28 of that year, he left his home and came to America with his half-brother, landing at New Yoik after a voyage of thirty-five days. He first located near Syracuse, New York, remaining there till 1855, when he came to Illinois and worked as a farm-hand at A.tlanta. In 1856 he married Mary Dittmer, a native of Hesse, Grermany, who came to America in 1854. They have seven children^John, Caroline, Jacob, Lizzie, Godfred, Mary and Bertha. Mr. Betzleberger first rented land, working hard and living economically, and in the fall of 1864 he purchased 100 of land acres on section 32, in the northern part of Orvil Township, on which was a small one-story house and a few other improvements. He paid for this land $100 cash, giving a mortgage for $1,500 and his note for $900. Mr. Betzleberger was in poor health, but by persevering industry and strict economy of himself and wife, the land was paid for at the end of six years, and he was the owner of considerable live-stock and farm machinery. He now owns 290 acres of highly cultivated land, and his improvements are second to none in the county. Since becoming a citizen of the United States Mr. Betzleberger has voted the Republican ticket, casting bis first vote for Abraham Lincoln in 1860. He is a member of the Lutheran church, and is highly respected by all who know him for his honest and upright dealings.

Henry Hallman became a resident of Emden, Logan County, in 1876, at which date he formed a partnership with George W. Miller and engaged in the general mercantile business under the firm name of Miller & Hallman until 1881, when Mr. Hallman became sole proprietor, and has since continued the business alone. Mr. Hallman is a native of Germany, born October 20, 1852. He remained in Germany till 1868, when he came to America with his uncle, George Hallman. He first located at Pekin, Illinois, where he learned the shoemaker's trade, which he followed till coming to Emden. Mr. Hallman was married in May, 1877, to Lena Oltheas, a native of Germany. Of the five children born to them only three are living - John, Ollie and Fannie. One child died at the age of three years, and one aged two years. Mr. and Mrs. Hallman are members of the Methodist church.

native country, and there learned the trade of a confectioner, which he followed till 1878. He then came to America with his brother, Dr. Thad. F. Hamer, and^has since resided at Hartsburg, Logan County. He was first engaged in clerking for his brother, and in 1881 succeeded him in his business, which he still continues.

Peter Hamer is a native of Hanover, Germany, born December 10, 1852. After completing his education he clerked for a time in a wholesale grocery and liquor establishment. At the age of nineteen years he entered the German army and served one year, and in 1874 he emigrated to the United States. He first located at Freeport, and a year later went to Ackley, Iowa, and traveled for a firm dealing in agricultural implements. In 1879 he located at Hartsburg, Logan County, Illinois, and has since been engaged in the drug business in connection with his brother. In 1883 Mr. Hamer was married to Ellen McAvoy,'daugher of Daniel McAvoy. They have two children - Minnie and Frederick W. In politics Mr. Hamer is a Republican.

Jacoh Hammond was a native of Pennsylvania, and a farmer by occupation. He came to Illinois and settled in Logan County in 1857, and followed farming near Mt. Pulaski till his death, in 1875. His wife, whose maiden name was Mary Beck, was a native of Germany. She died in 1867. They had a family of four children, three still living - Sarah J., now Mrs. Woland; Callie, wife of James Brady, and Joseph. Sarah J. was born in Hancock County, Ohio, July 7, 1843, and in 1859 was married to Enoch Preston, and to this union was born one daughter - Mary E., now wife of W. O. Jones. Mr. Preston enlisted in the late war in Company F, Seventy-third Illinois Infantry, and was killed at the battle of Franklin' in 1865. In 1867 Mrs. Preston married Mitchell Preston, and to them were born four children, three still living - William, Luvettie and Odie. Mitchell Preston died July 1, 1876, and in 1882, Mrs. Preston became the wife of E. K Woland.

John A. Hogue, a son of William and Elizabeth Hogue, was' born February 14, 1837, in Belmont County, Ohio. His father died in 1840, leaving a family of six children, three sons and three daughters, and the mother subsequently married William Brady. John A. was reared on a farm in Ohio, and came to Logan County, Illinois, April 12, 1856. In 1861 he enlisted in Company F, Thirtyeighth Illinois Infantry, and served three year,s and two months. He was wounded at the battle of Stone Eiver, which disabled him from service for several months. He was again wounded at Chickamauga, after which he served in the commissary department. After being mustered out he returned to Logan County, and February 27, 1868, he was married to Mary J. Jackson, a daughter of William H. Jackson. In 1871 he gave up farming and engaged in general merchandising at Hartsburg, which business he still follows. Politically he affiliates with the Republican party. He has served three years as township supervisor, and has also acted as town clerk, and from 1873 till 1885 he held the office of postmaster. He is a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen. To Mr. and Mrs. Hogue have been born eight children, of whom seven survive - William James, Alice L., Lulu May, Theron Walter, Eobert Garfield, Addie and Carl E.

James Tnskeep, a son of Fountain and Ellen Inskeep, was born in Brown County, Ohio, February 2, 1847. He was reared on a farm, and educated in the common schools, remaining in his native county till 1871. He then came to Logan County, Illinois, and now resides on section 3, Orvil Township, and is the owner of 160 acres of well-cultivated land. He was married in 1875 to Alcinda Summers, daughter of Dr. Jefferson Summers. In politics Mr. Inskeep affiliates with the Democratic party. He has held the office of school director. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and is an active worker for the cause of temperance.

Levi Jackson is a son of William H. and Rebecca Jackson, and was born in Frederick County, Maryland, March 25, 1853. He came with his parents to Illinois in 1856 and has since been a resident of Logan County. He was reared to manhood on a farm, and educated in the common schools of this county. In the fall of 1874, he was united in marriage to Miss Jennie Musick, daughter of Henry and Martha Musick. They are the parents of five children - Harry, Clara, Willie, Jennie and Ellen. In politics Mr. Jackson affiliates with the Republican party, and has served his township in the school offices. He is a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen.

Jomies N. Longan who has been a resident of this county since 1862, is a native of Pennsylvania, born July 4, 1836. He is a son of Thomas 0. and Mary A. Longan, the former born on the ocean while his parents were coming from Ireland to America, and the latter born in Lycoming County, Pennsylvania. James N. was reared on a farm in Lycoming County, and July 3, 1860, he was married to Harriet A. Minsker, a native of the same county. She died in November, 1880, leaving one daughter, who is now living in Mason City. In the fall of 1862 Mr. Longan came to Illinois and settled on section 21, Orvil Township, Logan County. In 1863 he removed to section 28 where he followed farming till 1872. He then located in the village of Hartsburg and engaged in buying grain for A. W. Ray, having charge of his business till 1878. Mr. Ray then sold out to Williams, Railsbach & Co., Mr. Longan continuing as their manager. In 1881 the firm sold to Carpenter &Martling, with whom Mr. Longan remained till 1883, since which time he has dealt in stock and grain for himself. He is also express agent for the United States Express Company having been in their employ twelve years. He is at present serving as constable and collector, holding the latter office four years. He has served as school treasurer ten years, township assessor two years, and town clerk three years. In politics he is a Republican, always taking an active interest in his party. He is a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen.

James McCormich,mn of John and Elizabeth (Gilchrist) Mc- Cormick, was born in New Galloway, Kirkcudbrightshire, Scotland, February 5, 1829. He learned the trade of a granite stone cutter, which he followed in his native country till 1863 when he immigrated to America, landing at New York, May 1, 1853. He worked at his trade in Massachusetts till 1857, and June 28 of that year he went to Wasiiington, D. C. November 20, 1858, he sailed from New York and returned to Scotland, and December 13, 1858, lie was married at Liverpool, England, to Eliza McGowen, a native of Wigton, Scotland. She was born November 16, 1834. He then sailed with his wife for America, landing at New York, February 9, 1859. He went to Washington, D. C, and continued his trade. In the fall of 1860 he came to Logan County, Illinois, and purchased eighty acres of his present farm, and June 1, 1861, he removed his family, and has since been a resident of Orvil Township. He gives his whole attention to agricultural pursuits in which he has been very successful. He now owns 360 acres of wellcultivated land, and his commodious residence, which was erected in 1873, where he is surrounded with all the necessary comforts ot life. Mr. and Mrs. McCormick have a family of eight children, consisting of six sons and two daughters, the two eldest born in Washington, D. C; the others in Orvil Township, Logan County, Illinois. In politics the subject of this sketch is a Democrat. He was a resident of Washington during the stormy days prior to the

Civil war. He heard President Lincoln deliver his first inaugural address, and visited Congress while in session, seeing and hearing the prominent men of that day.

James MoMath was born in Kirkcudbrightshire, Scotland, in August, 1819. He was reared on a farm, residing in his native country till the spring of 1845 when he came to America. He first located in Ontario County, New York, and in the fall of 1853 married Jane Stewart, who is also a native of Kirkcudbrightshire, Scotland. They have seven children - James, farming in Nebraska; Margaret; Ellen, wife of William Morris; Jane, wife of George Musick; John, Mary and Fannie. On the day of his marriage Mr. McMath started with his wife for Illinois, going by railroad to Buffalo, thence by boat to Detroit, across Michigan by rail, and by boat to Chicago, thence to La Salle where they again took the boat on the Illinois River for Pekin. He at once settled in Logan County, renting the first year, not being able to get a carpenter to build him a house. The second year he settled on his own land on section 16, Orvil Township, where he has since resided, and is now the owner of 320 acres of land all well improved. In politics he affiliates with the Democratic party.

George W. Miller, second son of William B. and Martha (Mountjoy) Miller, is a native of Logan County, born in Eminence Township, June 22, 18i5. He was reared a farmer which avocation he followed till 1873. He then left the farm and began dealing in live-stock at Emden. For a time he was engaged in the general mercantile business with his father, and from 1875 till 1881 he was a member of the firm of Miller & Hallman. At present he is dealing in grain and live-stock. February 4, 1864-, he was married to Lottie B. Sumner, and the children of this union are - Lona A., Clara and Charles. Mr. Miller and his wife are members of the Christian church. In politics he is a Republican. William B. Miller, one of the pioneers of Logan County, came here from Tennessee with his parents about 1818 when quite young. He was reared to farming pursuits, and with the exception of two years, when he was engaged in the mercantile business at Emden with his son, he followed the occupation of a farmer. He was married to Martha Mountjoy, and reared a family of seven children, of whom five still survive - Benjamin F., farming in Tazewell County; George W., of Emden; Thomas J., a farmer of Logan County; Henry C, also farming in Logan County, and Laura, wife of J. C. Bruner, of Eminence Township, this county. Mr. Miller died in

Frank E. Miller, son of Jeremiah and Sarah Ann Miller, was born August 15, 1861, a native of Logan County, Illinois. His early life wts spent on a farm, and in attending the common schools. He afterward attended Lincoln University, taking a select course such as would be beneficial to him in after life. In 1882 he became associated with his brother, J. E. Miller, since which they have carried on a successful grain business. December 25, 1881, Mr. Miller was united in marriage to Jessie Applegate, daughter of F. S. Applegate, of Atlanta. They have one daughter named Cecile. Mr. and Mrs. Miller are members of the Christian church.

Jeremiah Miller was born in Kentucky, January 20, 1827, and when grown to manhood he immigrated to Illinois, locating in Logan County, where he soon after married Sarah Ann Hawes who was also a native of Kentucky. He came to this county with only a few dollars, but by his indomitable energy and untiring industry he accumulated wealth, and at the time of his death he was worth $25,000. He began working on a farm in Logan County at $8 per month which he followed two years, and afterward pre-empted 160 acres of land in Orvil Township. In 1882 he removed to Atlanta, and subsequently engaged in the grain business at that place, being a member of the firm of Miller & Hawes till the spring of 1885 when, on account of failing health, he retired from the business. He died in October, 1885, leaving a widow, who is still a resident of Atlanta, and six children - Arthur P. and Lin a (twins), John E., Charles A., Frank H. and William A. who are all prominent citizens of Logan County. Mr. Miller was a kind and afiectionate husband and father, and as a citizen and neighbor he was universally respected for his sound integrity and honest dealings. He was one of the founders of the Bethel Church, and ever afterward led a Christian life. His remains were buried in Bethel Cemetery.

Oilhert Morris, son of Calvin and Achsah (Nichols) Morris, was born in Miami County, Ohio, June 22, 1855. He was reared to the life of a farmer, and was educated in the common schools. He made his home in Miami County till 1877, although previous to this time he had spent several years in the West. After he was fourteen years of age he spent his time in attending school during the winter and in working for various parties during the summer months. In 1877 he came to Logan County, Illinois, where he has made a permanent settlement. In 1879 he was married to Sarah

C. Jackson, daughter of "William Jackson. They have three children - Ethel, Jacob H. and Edith. In politics Mr. Morris affiliates with the Democratic party. He is at present serving as commissioner of Orvil Township.

Ricfmrd P. NalU Postmaster at Hartsburg, was born in Ohio County, Kentucky, June 15, 1838. He is a son of Larkin and Juliet (Griffin) Nail, his father a native of Kentucky, and his mother born near Culpeper, Virginia. His father was engaged in the general mercantile trade for fifty years, and also dealt in tobacco, beside keeping hotel, and in his various enterprises he was successful and is now retired from the active duties of life and is at present a resident of Lincoln, Illinois. Richard P., our subject, received a common-school education in the schools of his native county. In 1861 he was married to Camillia Shanks, a daughter of Q. 0. Shanks, of Kentucky, and in 1864 he came to Logan County, Illinois, and engaged in farming, his father having previously purchased land here. After remaining here one season he returned to. Kentucky. Two years later he returned to Logan County and engaged in the grocery business at Lincoln. He subsequently returned to Kentucky where his wife died in 1868. She left one son who is now deceased. In 1871 he again came to Illinois, and in 1872 located at Hartsburg where he has since been engaged in the mercantile business. In 1874 he was married to his present wife, Johanna Hildebrand, of Peoria, and to them have been born three children - Fannie, Larkin and Louisa. Politically Mr. Nail is a Democrat. He has held several local offices, and September 1, 1885, he was appointed postmaster of Hartsburg. He is a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen, and also belongs to the Bloomington Northwestern Society.

H. A. J. Paul was born in Kentucky, March 30, 1832, a son of Edmund and Rrtcliel (Gray) Paul, who were also natives of Kentucky. About 1835 he removed with his father's family to Monroe County, Indiana, where the mother died in 1884. The father still resides in the same county. They were the parents of nine children, seven of whom are still living. Our subject was reared on a farm, and has made farming a life work, in which he met with success. He has been a resident of Logan County since August, 1850, and his home is now on section 34, Orvil Township, adjoining Tazewell County. He owns a well-cultivated farm of 285 acres, and his home is supplied with all the necessary comforts of life. Politically he is a Democrat, and has held sev- eral local offices. He was married October 11, 1855, to Mary Hinkle, a native of Monroe County, Indiana, and of the five children born to this union four are living - William Henry, Jonathan J., James E., and Alice, wife of George Scott. David M. died at the age of fifteen months. Mr. and Mrs. Paul are members of the Christian church.

Emanuel R. Woland, eldest son of Solomon and Catherine Woland, was born in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, May 13, 1837. He received a good common-school education, and at the age oi fourteen years he began boating on the canal which he followed one year. He then clerked in a store till 1855 when he came with his father's family to Illinois and became a resident of Logan County. He has followed farming continuously with the exception of three years, when he resided in Hartsburg and was engaged in the grain business. He was married October 27, 1859, to Mary E. Meixel, & native of Union County, Pennsylvania, and daughter of George Meixel, who settled in Logan County in 1854. She died in Kovember, 1878, leaving five children - Clarence J., Samuel G., John H., Minnie M. andLuella M. September 26, 1882, Mr. Woland was married to his present wife, Mrs. Sarah J. (Hammond) Preston. In politics Mr. Woland is a Republican, having voted for that party since attaining his majority. He has served as constable twelve years and as deputy sheriff" four years. He is a member of the Odd Fellows order, and also of the Ancient Order of United Workmen.

Solomon Woland has resided in Logan County since the spring of 1855. He was born in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, April 17, 1805, a son of John and Margaret (Ditty) Woland, who were also natives of Pennsylvania. His early liie was spent on a farm, and at the age of eighteen years he began learning the tailor's trade which he followed for many years. June 16, 1829,he married Catherine Readle, who was born near our subject's birth place. They had a family of six children of whom four are living - Louisa, now Mrs. Hilscher; Emanuel R., Susanna M. and Solomon J. Mr. Woland moved to Lycoming County, Pennsylvania, where he resided till 1855 when he came West and located in this county, and immediately began farming. In 1856 he settled on section 3, Orvil Township, where he still makes his home. Mrs. Woland died in March, 1880. In his religious views Mr. Woland believes in the doctrines taught in the Cumberland Presbyterian church.

Chapter Xxxi

The township to which this chapter is devoted occupies the northwest corner of Logan County and contains forty-two sections of land. It is bounded on the north by Tazewell County, on the east by Orvil Township, on the south by Sheridan Township and on the west by Mason County. It derives its name from Prairie Creek, which flows southwest through the middle of the township. The northwest corner is crossed by the Chicago & Alton Eailroad, and the northeast corner by the Peoria, Decatur & Evansville Railroad.

1877 - Supervisor, Thomas J. Chesnut; Clerk, Paul Hartwig; Assessor, Isaac Y. Cunningham; Collector, Paul Hartwig; Highway Commissioner, R. A. Harris; Justices, John P. Malone and Isaac V. Cunningham ; Constables, Joseph Garber and Andrew Klotz.

History Of Logan Countf

1885 - Supervisor, Patrick Ejan; Clerk, 0. W. Tyler; Assessor, Isaac V. Cunningham; Collector, Norman Nichols; Highway Oominissionei, H. A. Linbarger; Justices, John P. Malone and John Tyler; Constables, Charles Linbarger and Vance Cunning, ham. *

Prairie Creek decreased in population from 1,164 to 1,112 between 1870 and 1880, on account of immigration to the Western States and Territories. There are now, in 1885, probably not more than 1,100 inhabitants.

Prairie Creek is one of the most evenly divided townships, politically, in the county. Neither party ever feel sure of carrying it. The following table shows the vote for President each year since the organization of the township: is a station on the Chicago & Alton Kailroad, and lies mainly in Mason County. The part extending into this township was surveyed in 1858. It is an excellent shipping point for grain.

Michael AdolphQ,wa.% to Logan County, Illinois, in February, 1868, where he has since resided. He is a native of Baden, Germany, born April 12, 1830, remaining there till his seventeenth year. He then came' with his brother and a sister, who are now both deceased, to the United States, sailing from Liverpool, England, to New York, arriving at the latter place the beginning of August. They soon after went to Washtenaw County, Michigan, and settled near Ann Arbor, his sister remaining in that county till her death. He owed his brother-in-law $60, which he paid the first year he lived in Michigan. After working by the month for three years in Michigan he and his brother came to Pekin, Illinois, with a little money, where his brother died of cholera. He rented land at Pekin and worked at whatever he could find to do. In March, 1853, he was married to Agnes Gruensfelder, who was born in Baden, Germany, June 22, 1836. She died April 1, 1875. Their family cDnsisted of ten children - Catherine, born February 9, 1854; Magdelena, November 9, 1856; Pauline, April 10, 1859; Philip, January 22, 1861; CarlLudwig, April 17, 1863 (deceased); Heinrich, November 2, 1865; Louis, August 28, 1867; Agnes, August 22, 1871; Eva, November 4, 1872, and Lydia, November 11, 1874. Mr. Adolph resided in Pekin five years, during which time he saved his earnings, so that in 1858 he had sufficient means to purchase eighty acres of land near the city, on which he lived till February, 1868. He then sold his land and came to Logan County and purchased 160 acres of land on section 6, Prairie Creek Township, where he now resides. He now owns 240 acres of choice land, and his land is well cultivated. He is a member of the German Methodist Episcopal church, and in politics he is a Republican. He has served six years as road commissioner, and has held the office of school trustee since the time he settled in the county.

Thomas J. Chesnut, eldest son of Alexander R. and Mary A. (McCoUister) Chesnut, was born in Ross County, Ohio, June 4, 1834. He came with his father's family to Illinois in 1849, and in 1851 to Logan County, where he has since lived with the exception of three years, making his home in Prairie Creek Township. He was reared on a farm and has always followed the avocation of a farmer, and at present he is engaged in farming and stock-raising. He was married in March, 1860, to Margaret H. Caldwell, daughter of Brice Caldwell, and they have a lamjly of nine children - Ella, Charles A., Lincoln, David, Albert, Logan , Benjamin F., Jessie and Jane. After his marriage Mr. Chesnut resided three years in Mason County, Illinois, and in the spring of 1863 he settled on section 29, Prairie Creek Township, where he has a valuable farm of 320 acres. He also owns 240 acres in Fillmore County, Nebraska. In politics he votes the Republican ticket. For many years he has served his township in several of the local oflBces. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. His grandfather. Captain Charles Chesnut, was a native of Eockingham County, Virginia. He was Captain of a company of militia in the war of 1812. He was married to Elizabeth Eobertson, and reared one son, Alexander E. , father of our subject, and one daughter. Captain Chesnut came to Illinois with his son and lived in Logan County till his death in 1858, at the age of eighty-nine years. Alexander R. Chesnut was one of the pioneers of Prairie Creek Township. He was born in Chillicothe, Ross County, Ohio, in September, 1801, and reared on a farm. His wife, Mary A. McCollister, was also a native of Eoss County, and of the children born to them five grew to maturity - Thomas J. ; IS elson , died in 1875 ; Matilda, wife of Jefferson Donavan ; Alexander R., a real estate dealer in Minneapolis, and Mary Ann, wife of John Jones. Alexander R. Chesnut continued farming in his native county till 1846, when he removed to Christian County, Illinois, and in 1881 he settled in Logan County, on section 32, Prairie Creek Township. Here he purchased 440 acres of land, all being raw prairie with the exception of 100 acres. He followed farming till 1869, by which time he had 1,000 acres, when he sold out and removed to Morgan County, remaining there till his death in 1880. He was a successful and enterprising farmer, and a highly respected citizen. In politics he was formerly a Whig, but since 1856 he was a staunch supporter of the Republican party. He was often chosen to fill local offices.

J. F. Cunningham was born in Hardy County, West Yirginia, April 17, 1810, a son and grandson of Yirginians. In 1832 he went to Scioto County, Ohio, and made that his home twenty-one years. In 1833 he returned to his native county and married Catherine S. Harness. In 1853 he came to Illinois and rented land in Sangamon County a year, in the meantime traveling over the adjoining counties in search of a permanent home, and purchased about 800 acres in Prairie Creek Township, Logan County. In the spi'ing of 1864 he moved his family to the new home. About twenty acres of the land had been plowed, and a small house had been built. He went earnestly to work and soon had his land under cultivation and better improvements. In 1882 he erected his commodious frame-house, which is one of the best in the township. He has sold a part of his land and given a part to his children, but still retains in the homestead 320 acres. To Mr. and Mrs. Cunningham have been born twelve children, eight of whom are living - Jacob Y., John H., David G., Mary F. (wife of Albert Vandivort), Sallie, Anna (wife of George Smith), Virginia L., and James Vause. Politically Mr. Cunningham was in early life a Whig, but for thirty years has affiliated with the Deinocatic party. He served as justice of the peace twelve years, and has been assessor of his township from the date of its organization. He is a firm believer in the Christian religion, but is a member of no church.

George Faukin was born in Asens, Hanover, Germany, March 12, 1808. He followed farming in his native country, and April 14, 1839, he married Catherine Dackana, who was born in Hanover, December 18, 1815. In 1854 they immigrated to America, landing in New Orleans, from whence they came to Illinois, and located at Pokin, June 14. In August following Mr. Faukin bought 160 acres of land in Mason County, on which he resided one year, after which he lived four years in Pekin in order that his children might have better educational advantages. He then settled on a farm in Tazewell County, Illinois, remaining there till 1868, when he became a resident of Prairie Creek Township, Logan County, and at the time of his death, which occurred March 25, 1882, he was living on section 8, where he owned a fine farm of 320 acres. He left a widow and three children - John, Anna (wife of Fred. Gusstuf), and Martha (wife of Charles Wiemer). In politics Mr. Faukin was a Eepublican, voting for that party from 1860. He was a member of the German Methodist Episcopal church, and a highly respected citizen.

John Faukin, son of George and Catherine Faukin, was born in Asens, Hanover, Germany, May 21, 1846. He came to the United States with his parents, with whom he has always resided. He lives on the old homestead in Prairie Creek Township, and owns 480 acres of good land in Logan County, and his improvements are among the best in the township. He devotes his attention principally to the raising of small grain. In 1868 he was married to Atta Hellmann, a native of Hanover, Germany, born

August 29, 1849, who came to this country with her parents when about six years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Faukin have four children living - Greorge, Henry, Louis and Emma. Mr. Faukin in politics afBliates with the Republican party. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Jeremiah Clough Leavitt, the oldest resident of Prairie Creek Township, was born in Gilmantown, New Hampshire, January 16, 1818, a son of Joseph Leavitt, who was also a native of New Hampshire. His grandfather was a native of England, and was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. Our subject grew to manhood in his native State, and there learned the tanner's and currier's trade. In 1845 he moved to Indiana and lived in Henry and Wayne counties five years. September 12, 1849, he came to Illinois and settled in Irish Grove, Menard County, where he lived three years. In 1851 he bought land in Prairie Creek Township, Logan County, on which he settled in 1852. Here he still lives, engaged in farming and stock-raising. He has a fine farm of 495 acres, all but fifteen acres of timber land being under cultivation. His improvements are good, his farm buildings being large and comfortable. Mr. Leavitt was married February 5, 1843, to Abigail Dow Murray, a native of Farmington, New Hampshire, born December 14, 1822. They have had a family of seven children, two born in Indiana and the rest in Illinois - Hannah Margaret, born September 5, 1845, is the wife of William Wilson, of this township; Lovey Ann, born January 2, 1848, was married March 12, 1868, to Henry C. Coffman, of De Witt County, Illinois; RosannaC, born October 27, 1850, was married May 18, 1867, to Stephen S. Weaver, of this township; Mary Abigail, born October 7, 1853, died December 2, 1854; Mary Melissa, born September 22,1857, was married March 16, 1874, to Harmon Cannon, of Cass County, Nebraska; James Murray, born July 19, 1860, was married April 6, 1882, to Mary Keller; Jeremiah C, Jr., born June 22, 1865, is still at home. Mr. Leavitt in his political views is a Democrat. October 20, 1842, he united with the Baptist church, and is now a believer in the speedy second coming of the Savior. Mrs. Leavitt's parents, James and Margaret M. (Dow) Murray, are natives of Stafford County, New Hampshire, the former born in Farmington, February 14, 1801, and the latter in Barnstead, August 10, 1800. They were married February 21, 1821. In 1852 they came to Illinois and settled in Irish Grove, Menard County, where they still live. Jtlr. Murray is a Democrat of the Andrew Jackson type and has always been an earnest worker in the ranks of his party. To Mr. and Mrs. Murray were born four daughters - Abigail Dow, Lovey Randall, Margaret D. and Kosanna 0. The latter is the wife of John H. C. Gray, of Piatt County, Illinois. Lovey R. and Margaret D. are deceased.

Frederick Smith, a pioneer of Logan County, was born in Bavaria, Germany, March 6, 1824, a son of Frederick and Catherine Smith. His father was a butcher by occupation, and our subject also learned the butcher's trade, which he followed in his native land till 1849. He then immigrated to America and landed at New York, June 18, 1849, and at once entered the employ of a brewer at $4 per month, for whom he worked five months. He then went to New Jersey, working on a farm there for a year, when he again resumed working at his trade. January 20, 1851, he was married to Catherine Hipschman, a native of Germany, who came to America with her parents in 1847. In 1853 Mr. Smith came to Illinois and settled near Havana, Mason County, where he purchased 200 acres of land. His cash capital then consisted of $600, and on landing in New York he had but $9. In 1857 he sold his farm and purchased eighty acres on section 8, Prairie Creek Township, Logan County. When he lirst settled in the county his place for marketing was Pekin, twenty-three miles distant, and he and his wife attended church at that place nearly every Sabbath for five years. His wife died October 2, 1863, leaving four children, of whom three are now living - Henry J. ; Elizabeth, wife of Jerry Zimmerman, and Lizetta, wife of Philip Brust. In 1864 Mr. Smith married Mrs. Catherine Froebe, and to this union have been born seven children - Lydia, wife of John Brust; Sophia, Edward, Anna, Barbara, George and Fred. By her first marriage Mrs. Smith has one son - Christopher E. Froebe. Mr. Smith has been prosperous in his farming pursuits, and is now the owner of 1,240 acres of well-cultivated land, 1,000 acres being in Logan County, and 240 acres in Nebraska, his daughter Lizetta residing on the latter. His fine farm dwelling was erected in 1868 at a cost of $4,500, and he is surrounded by all the necessary comforts of life. In politics he is a Republican. He has served fifteen years as school director, and as commissioner nine years. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, of which he has been deacof and trustee for eighteen years. In 1882 he and his wife returned to Germany after an absence of thirty-four years. They spent three months in Europe and visiting France and Germany.

Eli Thomas was born in Scioto County, Ohio, October 17, 1825, a son of Jacob and Catherine (Noel) Thomas, who were natives of Virginia. He received a limited education in the common schools, and on account of his father's death, in July, 1840, he was at the age of fourteen years thrown on his own resources. He worked by the month for farmers till 1850, when he immigrated to Jersey County, Illinois, and was there married early in the year 1852 to Nancy A. Giberson, a native of Pickaway County, Ohio. Soon after marriage they came to Logan County, and since April, 1852, have resided on section 29, Prairie Creek Township, with the exception of two years, when they lived near Lincoln. When Mr. Thomas first came to this county he and his two brothers purchased and entered 760 acres of land, of which he still owns 120 acres and has well cultivated it. He devotes most of his time to farming, but is also engaged in dealing in live-stock. In politics Mr. Thomas is a Kepublican, voting for that party since 1860. He is one of the Knights of the Red Cross in the Masonic fraternity, and is well and favorably known in Logan, Mason and Tazewell counties. Eli Thomas had three brothers and one sister. The sister and one brother died in infancy. One brother, Isaiah, now resides in San Jose, Mason County, and another, Amasiah, came to Logan County in 1863 and engaged in farming. He died in 1867 leaving a widow and two children - Granderson R., now a resident of Republican County, Kansas, and Ida R., wife of A. R. Museller, of, Lincoln.

John Tyler, one of the pioneers of Prairie Creek Township, was born in Otsego County, New York, July 10, 1810. His father, Joseph Tyler, was a native of Rhode Island, and a farmer by occupation, and his mother, Orpha A. (Briggs) Tyler, was a native of Holland, Germany. The latter died soon after the birth of our subject, who, during his childhood, was taken care of by a squaw. After his father's second marriage he lived with him on the farm, and at the age of fourteen years he began working at the carpenter's trade, which he followed for many years in New York, Ohio, Canada and Indiana. In 1850 he came to Illinois, and at once settled in Logan County and commenced working at his trade. In the fall of 1854 he settled on section 20, Prairie Creek Township, where he had purchased 140 acres in 1851, since which he has followed farming, and now owns 320 acres, the east half of section 20? He was for three years in the employ of the Hudson Bay Fur Company, spending the time in the British provinces. Mr. Tyler has been married three times. His first wife, whom he married January 1, 1838, in Lorain County, Ohio, was Susan Battell. She died in 1843, leaving two sons - Frederick, now living in Kansas, and George, of Logan County. He was then married in Anderson, Indiana, in 1845, to Mrs. Mahala Willitts, who died in 1852, leaving two children, of whom only one is now living - Charles. He was married again in 1867 at Lincoln, Illinois, to Elizabeth Austell, who died in 1880. In politics Mr. Tyler is a Democrat, casting his first vote for Andrew Jackson. He has served as postmaster, and has held nearly all the local offices. At present he is holding the office of justice of the peace.

John Wendle has been a resident of Logan County since 1861, and has made his home on section 32, Prairie Creek Township, since 18Y1. Mr. Wendle was born in Guernsey County, Ohio, January 22, 1833, a son of William and Effie (De Long) Wendle, natives of Virginia and Maryland respectively. They were married in Pennsylvania, and from there moved directly afterward to Guernsey County, Ohio, where they lived several years, and in that county six sons and five daughters were born to them. The family removed to Ross County, Ohio, and there the subject of this sketch was reared. His parents came to Mason County, Illinois, in 1859, he coming with them, but soon after returned to Ohio, where he remained till 1861. He then made his home in Sheridan Township till 1871, since which he has resided in Prairie Creek Township, where he has a fine substantial residence, and a good farm containing 200 acres of well-cultivated land. Mr. Wendle was married January 30, 1867, to Mary Jane Keller, who was born in Pike County, Ohio, January 7, 1838. They have two children - Canada, born April 27, 1868, and Cora, born November 6, 1869. Mr. Wendle is giving his children a good education, counting nothing lost devoted to that end. He is preparing his son for a college education, intending to tit him for a professional life. His daughter is a member of the Episcopal and his son of the Cumberland Presbyterian church. In politics Mr. Wendle is a Democrat. His father was seventy years of age when he settled in Mason County, where he died at the age of eighty-four, his wife dying a few days later at the age of eighty. Their children are - Thomas, of Sheridan; Philip, of Corwin; William, Daniel and Barbara, of McLean County; JSTathaniel, of West Lincoln, and John, our subject. ^ Four daughters are deceased - Sarah, Elizabeth, Leer and Effie.