Pleasant Grove Township (part 2 of 2)

The next summer - 1832 - on June 1, the members met and ascreed to donate so many days of work each, in building a church. It 'was to be of logs. 24x30 feet in size. The original list of [subscriptions show from two to twelve days' labor subscribed by each one, while Mr. Barnett subscribed twenty-six spikes, and William Wayne thirty ^bushels of lime. In all, eighty days were subscribed, and, that fall, the church was raised and covered. It could be used only in the warm weather, as no floor or windows were yet made. The flooring was afterward sawn out by a whip-saw, an exceedingly long and tiresome process, while the siding and roof were made from slabs split out with a maul and wedges, and dressed with a frow. The church, made in this manner, was considered quite an aflair, for the times, and, considering the appliances at hand, and the labor necessary to build a frame house in that manner, it is certainly creditable. It had two doors in front, between which the pulpit was placed. The latter was one of those high, old-fashioned, box-like aff'airs, behind which the minister was pretty eff"ectually screened. It is said that, when Mr. Bennett sat down in it, the top of his head only was visible to the congregation. The seats in this church were made by placing long slabs on trestles. They were without backs, and placed rather closely together. If any one became sleepy then, as now, and wanted to lean his head forward on the seat in front, he had a poor chance, surely. May be they did not get sleepy then, as they do now ; the room was always well ventilated, and the sermon more of a rarity than now. The church remained in its unfinished condition about two years. The one who subscribed the lime failed to produce it, and, as Rev. John McDonald, now the Pastor, possessed energy in worldly matters, as well as in spiritual, he, with the aid of Mr. Nicholson, yet living in the neighborhood, prepared to remedy the deficiency, and make the house comfortable in cold as well as in warm weather. Rev. McDonald found a lime-rock in the Indian Creek, and it was determined to upe it to plaster the church. Logs were hauled by the members and piled around and on it, and, being set on fire, burned it to a pulverized condition. By the aid of sand, also found here, Mr. McDonald and his parishioners made an excellent plaster, and, having put split lath on the inner side of the house, the worthy minister plastered the church with his own hands. As the weather was cold at the time, he took up ^ the floor of the church, made a bed of sand in the center of the inclosure, and therein kept a great fire burning until the plastering was thoroughly dried.

In 1834, the congregation employed Rev. James H. Shields, of Indiana, onehalf his time. He, however, sent them word, afterward, that he could not attend. The congregation was growing very well at this date, the main losses being those who left to unite with other churches of their own particular creed, which they could not find when they came first to the country. Rev. Bennett remained here, at different times, several years. He had been in the county when it was first settled ; had made three trips on horse-back between Philadelphia and his charges in the West, and had seen the infant congregations expand into self-supporting charges. His old, faithful horse passed its declining days in this part of the State, dying at last in Lawrence County, where, out of respect to its master and its own good service, it was given a decent interment by some young men.

In examining old records of the Church, and, indeed, of all churches of that date, we find many phases of human life exemplified. Then the church assumed more of the functions of a court than now, and tried persons who comm'itted acts unworthy their profession. The records of Indian Point Church show that a certain member was found " guilty of making cheese on the Sabbath Day," and was suspended. Others are, at times, "admonished." The church grew alt the while, and, where any took offense at such proceedings, they were at liberty to withdraw.

This part of the West was too remote in the wilderness to note the transactions of important events when they transpired. It took several weeks for the news to reach the inland settlement of Illinois at that day. Hence, when the dismemberment of the great Presbyterian Church occurred, we find no note is taken of it in Pleasant Prairie until a year or two after it had occurred. On August 9, 1839, the members of the Pleasant Prairie Church met to consider that question, and after a discussion and explanation of the division, a ballot was taken to decide to which of the two great bodies - technically called Old and New School - they should annex themselves. They seemed to be pretty evenly divided, as a majority of 3 votes was cast to remain with the " Old School." The dissenters to this view numbered thirty-one, and drawing off" formed a new Church, and from this date down to the re-union in 1871, we find two congregations. They were so amicably situated that by an outsider, however, the difference could not have been detected. Both congregations used the same house, though each employed their own Pastor and managed their own aff"airs. The old Church was left with twenty-five members, whose first minister was Rev. John McDonald, who had come from Ohio to the north part of the State, and who had attended the first meeting of a Presbyterian Presbytery in Illinois, at the house of Rev. Stephen Bliss, in Wabash County. When he came to Pleasant Prairie, he lived in a split-log or pole cabin, near the church, that had heretofore been used for a schoolhouse. He lived in this until he could erect a house for himself and his family, into which they moved when it Avas completed. He died about twelve years ago. The family still reside on the old homestead. He remained in charge of the Church until his health failed, even then preaching occasionally. He was succeeded by the Rev. Joseph Adams, who came from Philadelphia, and remained about two years. He, in turn, by Rev. R. A. Mitchell, who lived in Charleston ; he, by Rev. Elliott ; he, by James W. Allison ; he, by A. Kemper, of Mattoon ; he, by Nathaniel Williams ; he, by Ellis Howell, under whose ministry the re-union occurred ; he, by Robert Ash ; he, by George W. Davis, and he, by the present Pastor, R. G. Ross.

The New-School branch first employed Rev. John C. Campbell. His successors were C. H. Palmer, Joseph Wilson, who remained here a number of years, and E. Kingsbury. When the congregation re-united with the other and original one, they came under the care of the minister there.

The old church, built by contribution of labor, spikes and lime, and plastered by Rev. McDonald, remained in use until 1852, when the Old-School branch built the house standing just^back of the present church. This, like its prede- cessor, was used by both congregations until 1857, when the New-School branch built a neat frame church in the village of Farmington. They were assisted in the effort by the Methodists in that vicinity, who were allowed to use the house in consequence. This was done till 1866, when they completed their own church. The Old-School congregation used the church built in 1852 till 186G, when, becoming too small and worn out, it was replaced by the present one; dedicated when Rev. Howell was Pastor.

On the 14th of October. 1871, the Mattoon Presbyterv united the two Churches as one congregation again, employing one minister, still keeping both houses of worship, holding services alternately in each.

As has been incidentally mentioned, the Cumberland Presbyterians and the Methodists began organizing Churches about the year 1850 or 1852 - possibly, earlier. The strongest Methodist community was in INIattoon Township, then Paradise Precinct, at the head of the Wabash Point timber. Its history will be found in the history of that settlement, and there, it will be observed, it antedates the Indian Creek Presbyterian Church a year or two in point of organization. The denomination began holding meetings in Pleasant Prairie early in the life of that settlement. They united with the Cumberland Presl)yterians in the west side of the township in erecting a house of worship, about 1852 or 1853, and -with them occupied it, alternately, until 1866, the centennial year of American Methodism, when they completed their present house of worship, situated near the southwestern part of the township. It was dedicated April 29, 1866, when Rev. J. H. Aldrich was Pastor. The dedicatory sermon was preached by Rev. Dr. Phillips. The Church is known as the Muddy Point M. E. Church, from its location in the vicinity of that stream, and can trace its origin to the time the original Methodist Church at Wabash Point divided into three congregations, to suit the members, who were too widely scattered to attend there, and organized churches in their own neighborhoods. Almost cotemporary Avith the organization of the Muddy Point Church, one was formed in the "Goose-Nest Prairie." They, like all other infantile congregations, held meetings at first in each other's cabins. When the brick schoolhouse was built in Farmington, in 1853, they, with the Presbyterians, occupied that. Then, when this latter denomination built their church in the village, the Methodists aided them, and were, in consequence, allowed the use of their house of worship. This arrangement was continued until they built their own church, in 1866. They have a good congregation at present.

The Cumberland Presbyterians organized their first Church at Muddy Point in 1833. It is known as the Good Prospect Church, and was organized by Rev. Isaac Hill. They met in dwellings and schoolhouses, at first, continuing the practice till 1864, when they completed their present house of worship. For several years prior to this time, they occupied a large schoolhouse, which answered every purpose. Their principal pastors have been Revs. Isaac Hill, Daniel Campbell, James Ashmore and J. W. Woods. The latter is now living

The second church of this denomination is the outgrowth of a great revival, occurring in 1837. Those who are now living and attended that revival will, doubtless, remember the powerful sermon preached by Rev. Mitchell, of Charleston, then expecting to go to China as a missionary. As the result of this revival, a large accession accrued to the Church ; and, in 1843, the second congregation, known as Pleasant Grove Church, was organized by Rev. J. W. Woods. Their first meetings were held in the houses of William -Gammill (who will be remembered as one of the early members in the Indian Point Presbyterian Church) and John Whetstone, and in a schoolhouse in the neighborhood. The principal members were those named and the families of Alfred Alexander, Michael Whetstone and C. J. Dexter. Their pastors have been Revs. Woods, Isaac Hill, James Ashmore and others. The membership is now about seventy, and the attendance at Sunday school about the same. Their house of worship was erected in 1856, and was used, occasionally, by the Methodists, who assisted in its erection. These two Churches and the Methodist Church are all in this part of the township. They evince a people religious in feeling.

This village, the only one in the township, is situated on Section 16. It was laid out April 25, 1852, by Thomas Lytle, a surveyor, for John J. Adams, owner of the land on which it is situated. A post ofiice had existed for some time before this in this community, known as Campbell Post Office, as it was started by Frank Campbell, the first Postmaster here. ^I'he office at Farmington is yet known by that name. The village received its name from Mrs. Adams, who named it for Farmington, Tenn. There being one post office of that name in the State, when the village started, the Post Office Department refused to change the office name to correspond, hence it is yet known as Campbell's Post Office. Soon after the village was platted, Leander Burlingame built a house and store and opened a stock of goods. About the same time. Dr. Halbrooks and Samuel A. Reel erected a store and began business. Which of these two stores was first is hard to determine. It is probable they were erected at the same time and opened within a few days of each other. The post office was soon after moved into the village, a blacksmith named Gr. F. Biddle came, and the life of the village assumed tangibility. The next year the residents in this community, desirous of better educational advantages, erected a very good and substantial brick schoolhouse, intending it for seminary purposes. It was named Farmington Seminary, and, for a time, a very creditable school was maintained here. It also served as a place of public worship for the Methodists, who were numerous in this part of the township. It answered the double purpose of school and church until 1857, when the Presbyterians erected, with the aid of the Methodists, a neat frame house of worship in the western part of town, and public religious services were thereafter held there. The advent of the free schools brought a better system of education, and the Seminary was abandoned, the building turned over to the school authorities of the township, and common school held therein. After the village grew so that the building became too small, it was sold, changed into a store, and the present two-roomed house erected.

The foregoing narrative shows the earliest attempts to found a church in the village : As early as 1835, the Methodist ministers were in this part of the county, organizing classes and laying the foundations for churches. Rev. McKee was one of the earliest remembered. Rev. Ryan, another early circuitrider, organized a class of ten or twelve members in Goose-Nest Prairie, at George Rogers' house, not long after the settlement was made. They used each other's cabins at first, then the log schoolhouses, next the brick seminary, then the Presbyterian Church they assisted in building, which they occupied until they completed their own house of worship in 1866. It is a comfortable, neat frame church and accommodates a good congregation. The history of the Presbyterian Church in the village need not be repeated here, as it is sufficiently given in the sketch of the churches in the township history. The Pastor of both charges - practically one congregation - resides in the village, preaching alternately in each church.

The village is yet small, containing, perhaps, one hundred inhabitants. The tiouring-mill of Adams & Freeman, erected in 1866, by Harris & Crow, does a very fair business. It has only a local trade ; but it is constant and self-supporting. They can readily find a market for all they can grind above the wants of their customers.

The post office, Larna, is kept by Mr. George B, Balch, who aided the railroad in this section, and who makes a stopping-place at his house for the trains. It is a very convenient place for the neighborhood, and should be maintained, and a depot erected. Another stopping-place is made a few miles north, on the farm of Mr. Miller, from whom the place takes its name. No depot, office or platform is made here, however.

We have now given in outline the history of Pleasant Grove Township. Its details would fill a volume. There would, however, be much repetition, Avhich we have found difficult to avoid, and which we trust we have accomplished. The biographies of many of her citizens given elsewhere in these pages show much of the history which this volume perpetuates, and in away it only can be perpetuated. Had a similar work been published in the counties wherein we were raised, who would not prize it ?

John Jefferson Adams

JOHN JEFFERSON ADAMS, farmer, deceased, Sec. 17 ; P. 0. Campbell ; owns 1,240 acres ; Mr. Adams was one of the early pioneers of Coles Co.; he spent nearly half a century in Coles Co., 111., and was one of the men who helped to change it from a wilderness waste to a land of- fruitful fields, of bursting barns, bending orchards and happy homes, and, therefore, deserves more than a passing notice ; he was born Sept. 30, 1806, in William.son Co., Tenn. Was married to Martha Gammil in 1829. On the 26th of October, 1830, he, with his wife and firstborn child (W. E. Adams, who was then 11 days old), emigrated to what was then Clark Co., and after twenty four days' march, pitched his tent near the spot where he died ; Mrs. Adams died in 1844, leaving six children - William E., of Charleston ; the next lived to be a soldier, who died in a hospital during the late rebellion ; Mrs. Brown, of Hillsboro ; Mrs. Dr. Reel, of Oakland ; Mrs. West, of Texas, and Mrs. J. S. Grimes, now of Kansas. Mr. Adams was then married to Nancy Caroline Dryden Jan. 29, 1845; she was born Jan. 23, 1821; died Sept. 2, 1854; he was then married to Sarah E. Dryden Feb. 27, 1855 ; Sarah E. Dryden was born Jan. 14, 1827 ; the fruit of this marriage was eleven children, six living, five dead ; the names of the living are William E., Elizabeth A., Eliza, Martha J., Margaret M. and David ; the names of the deceased are Mary J., James H., Mary D., Unity E.

and Johu W. David Adams was born in Coles Co., 111., June 26, 1849. Was married to Hannah J. Harris May 6, 1873 ; she was born in Coles Co., 111., Oct. 10, 1853 ; the fruit of this marriage is two children, one living and one dead ; the name of the living is Grace.

ANDREW H. ALLISON, farmer, deceased, Sec. 8 ; P. 0. Campbell ; owned 300 acres of land, which was left to the heirs ; was born in Mecklenburg Co., N. C, Sept. 20, 1823 ; came from Tennessee to this county when 13 years of age, where he resided until his death, which occurred Nov. 15, 186-4. He was married to Eveline Dryden Dec. 30, 1845 ; she was born in Bedford Co., Tenn., June 7, 1822 ; they have had eight children - Mary Ann, Emily Frances, Thomas L., William D., Nancy C, John N., Henry C. and Andrew B. Mr. Allison was School Director three years, and Justice of the Peace when he died. His father was in the war of 1812.

JAMES ANDERSON, former, Sec. 20 ; P. 0. Mattoon ; owns 133 acres ; was born in Monroe Co., Md., Dec. 25, 1825, and lived with his parents on the farm in Maryland until 7 years of age ; then went with them to Ohio, where he resided until the year 1846, when he went to the Mex- ' ican war, and returned in 1855. He was married to Lucinda Knight Dec. 29, 1847 ; she was born in Licking Co., Ohio, June 12, 1826 ; they have had eight children, seven ' of whom are living, viz., Mary Ann, Columbia, William H., Sarah P., Emma, Martha, Charles W. and one infant. Mr. Anderson enlisted in 1846, and went with his regiment to Mexico ; he was in the service thirteen months, and was in the skirmish at Ounsford. Mr. Anderson's father is a native of Maryland, and his mother of Pennsylvania ; the parents of Mrs. Anderson are natives of Maine. !

JAMES M. ANDERSON, former, Sec. 3 ; P. 0. Charleston ; owns 140 acres; was born in Lewis Co., Va., Jan. 27, 1835 ; engaged in farming until 22 years of age. He was married to Dorothy A. Leitch Dec. 27, 1860; she was born in Coles Co., 111., i April 16, 1842; Mr. Anderson has five children living and one dead ; the living are named Sumner, Victoria, Wesley, Emma J. and Fannie B.; deceased, infant. Mr. Anderson has held the office of school

JOSEPH ARMSTRONG, farmer and stockdealer, Sec. 9; P. 0. Charleston; was born in Pendleton Co., Va., Aug. 11, 1823; he lived with his parents, assisting his father on the form until 23 years of age, when he married Elizabeth Leitch, Sept. 2, 1844; Mrs. Armstrong was born in Pendleton Co., Va., May 23, 1815; they have had four children, three living and one dead; their nanjes are Charles E., Abel T. T., Margaret J., and Arametha L., who died. Mr. Armstrong has held the oflSce of Township Collector one term, Road Commissioner one term, and School Director five years. He was in the late war; enlisted in the year 1862 in Co, I, 123d I. V. I.; was in the battles of Perryville, Farmington and Chickamauga; served three years and was mustered out by general order. Mr. Armstrong's father was in the war of 1812. Mr. Armstrong owns 320 acres of very fine river-bottom land.

JOHN W. BAKER, farmer ; P. 0. Campbell ; owns 135 acres in Sec. 19 ; was born in Morgan Co., 111., Feb. 17, 1840 ; lived with his parents until the age of 6, when they died, leaving him to shift for himself; he emigrated to this State in 1861, settling in Coles Co. Was married to Susan D. Rodgers April 5, 1866; she was born in Coles Co., 111., Feb. 9, 1851; the fruit of this marriage is three children - Efiie M., Mary A. and Isaac W. Mr. B. has held the ofl&ce of School Director six years, and Commissioner of Highways three years. Was in the late rebellion ; enlisted in 1861, Co. B, 7th I. V. I.; served three months ; re-enlisted Sept. 25, 1861, in Co. E, 5th I. V. C, and served four months in that regiment ; was in the battle of Vicksburg, and several other battles and skirmishes. Mrs. Baker's grandfather on her mother's side was in the Black Hawk war.

JOHN L. BALCH, deceased, farmer and author; P. 0. Charleston ; the subject of this sketch owned 120 acres of land, on Sec. 14 ; willed to the four sisters who now live on the same ; he was born in Logan Co., Ky., Dec. 27, 1800, and died October 3, 1870. He lived with his parents on the farm until married, Nov. 10, 1829, to MeHnda N. White ; she was born in Sulli- van Co., Ind., May 4, 1808, died Jan. 5, 1805. Mr. Balch came to this county in 1830, and settled on the farm where the four sisters now reside, and remained until his death ; he was the father of eight children, six of whom are livins;, viz., Alfred B., Albina, Mary M., William, Martha and Angeline E.; deceased, Alexander H. and James. ^ Mr. Balch was a school-teacher in this township in an early day, and was an author of considerable note; some of his writings were published on the slavery question. He was a Republican.

JESSE BEALS, farmer. Sec. 20 ; P. 0. Mattoon ; owns 250 acres ; was born in Crawford Co., Ind., April 26, 1826 ; lived with his father until 1836, and then lived with his mother until he married, Dec. IZ, 1844, to Mary Ann Horton, who was born in Bedford Co., Penn., Dec. 4, 1 818 ; they have had five children, four of whom are now living, viz., Amand M., Emma H., Nevada and Frank W. ; deceased - Cary. Mr. Beals was School Director five years. Township Supervisor of this township one term, in 1866, and was elected Justice of the Peace, in 1877, which office he now holds. Mr. Bcals is a minister of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, and has had charge of the Good Hope Church, in this township, for a number of years ; he has had several discussions on questions of theology, and has had one debate with the Rev. Roily Martin, of Danville, Vermilion Co., 111., one with Rev. Clark Braden, President of Carbondale University, and several other ministers of considerable note ; Mr. Beals' parents are natives of Pennsylvania.

GEO. B. BALCH, farmer. Postmaster and agent G. & M. R. R., Lama ; born in Bedford Co., Tenn., Nov. 1, 1828; his father, Alfred M. Balch, was born in Logan Co., Ky., Jan. 23, 1798. He was married to Elizabeth Gammil July 1, 1819; she was born Jan. 1, 1800; they left Tennessee late in October, 1830, and settled in Pleasant Grove Tp. ; their journey and settlement are fully noted in the history of that township ; they remained here during their lives ; Mrs. Balch died Dec. 29, 1855 ; Mr. Balch Dec. 2, 1856 ; the subject of this sketch, Geo. B., grew to maturity here, receiving only a moderate education. He was married March 19, 1851, to Margaret S. Walker, who was born in Tennessee, Oct. 1, 1832; they became the parents of eleven children, all of whom are now living ; Mrs. Balch died Nov. 4, 1875, leaving her daughters to fill her place ; the names and births of the children are as follows : Samuel W. (bo'rn Jan. 28, 1852 ; married Nov. 25, 1875), Elizabeth J. (born Sept. 18, 1853 ; married April 21, 1875), Ann Minerva (born Aug. 10, 1855), Thomas W. and Nancy M. (born Oct. 8, 1858), Esther R. (born June 20, 1861 ), Ellen

D. (born Jan. 31,1863), Minnie B. (born March 30, 1865), Eliza J. (born June 25, 1868), Robert E. (March 26. 1871 ), Margaret L. (July 3, 1873). Mr. Balch has just established the post office and station of Larna, both of which ofiices he fills ; it is the intention to erect necessary buildings, open a store and shop or two here, and start a town ; it is a good point.

GOTTLIEB F. BIDLE, farmer and blacksmith. Sec. 16; P. 0. Campbell; owns 230 acres; was born in Essling Co., Germany, Jan. 21, 1835; his parents died when he was quite young ; he came to this country when 17 years of age, and located in Coles Co., Ill, June 18, 1855, and was married to Sophrona Walker Oct. 30, 1856, who was born in Coles Co., 111., Sept. 13, 1839 ; they have had ten children, nine of whom are living, viz., Albert F., James H., Mary E., David, George, Louisa C, Joseph, Julia and Richard ; deceased - John C. Mr. Bidle has been School Director nine years, Pathmaster one term, and is Justice of the Peace at the present time. He was in the late war as blacksmith for the 123d I. V. I. (^afterward mounted).

JAMES GRAY BOVELL, farmer ; P, 0. Larna; owns 260 aci'es ; was born in Washington Co., Tenn., June 1, 1825, and came to Edgar Co. with his parents when only 4 years old ; he stayed there five years; then came to Coles Co., where he has since resided. He was married May 6, 1846, to Eliza Dryden, who was born in Bedford Co., Tenn., July 24, 1825, and has had four children, viz., Mary E. D., Nancy C, John W. and one infant ; Mary

JAMES R. P. CASSADAY, farmer, Sec. 10; P. 0. Campbell; was born in Edgar Co., 111., Auo-. 22, 1845; lived with his parents until 14 years of age, when they died, leaving him to shift for himself He was married to Catharine Edmond Oct. 17, 1867; she was born in Virginia Feb. 8, 1844; died Aug. 13, 1877; they had six children - four dead, two living ; the names of the living are Mary E., William H.; the names of the deceased are Jemima, Joanna, Sarah E. and one infant. Mr. C. was then married to Mary M. Neal July 20,1878; she was born in Cumberland Co., 111., Sept. 7, 1841. Mr. Cassaday has held office of Pathmaster one term, School Director several years. He was in the l^te war ; enlisted in 1863 in 11th Ind. V. C, Co. I) ; served two years, and was in the battles of Franklin and Nashville, and was also on the plains fighting the Indians six months. Mr. Cassaday's grandfather on his father's side was in the Black Hawk war. Mr. Cassaday owns 77* acres of excellent land.

HENRY CECIL, farmer. Sec. 10 ; P. O. Charleston ; owns 215 acres worth $40 per acre; he was born in Mercer Co., Ky., Feb. 15, 1826 ; lived on the farm, engaged with his father in farming until 21 years of age. Was then married to Hannah E. Robinson Oct. 7, 1847 ; she was born in Shelby Co., Ky., July 23, 1827 ; they have had seven children - Keziah F., Margaret J., Henry H., Mary R. E., Adda, Daniel E.,and John I., who is dead. Mr. Cecil held the office of School Director six years, and Constable three years ; Mrs. Cecil's parents were one of the first families of Virginia ; Mr. Cecil is one the best farmers in the township.

SAMUEL CHOWNING, farmer. Sec. 19 ; P. 0. Campbell ; owns 109 acres ; was born in Fayette Co., Ky., June 4, 1827 ; came with his parents to the county when only 4 years old, and lived with his parents until 18 years of age. He was married to Polly Ann McCann, in February, 1849 ; she was born in Logan Co., Ky., July 25, 1824, and has had nine children, viz : Nancy I., Rebecca D., Laura A., Mary L., Robert P., Rachel C, deceased, John B., Charles P., and one infant ; Mr. Chowning's father was in the Black Hawk war, and Mrs. Chowning's father in the war of 1812.

JAMES W. CRUME, farmer. Sec. 9 ; P. 0. Mattoon ; owns eighty acres ; was born in Marion Co., Ky., March 17, 1830, and lived with his parents on the farm until 21 years of age. He was married to Emily J. Maine, Dec. 29, 1856, who was born in Dubois Co., Ind., Aug. 25, 1834, and died Sept. 21, 1862. He then married Mary E. Reynolds Dec. 31, 1864, who was born in Coles Co., 111., March 29, 1834, and has had eight children, four of whom are living, viz., William R., Benjamin R., James H. and Emily 0. ; the deceased are L. D., F. C, E. 0. and one infant. Mr. Crume was Commissioner of Highways three years, School Director ten years. Township Trustee three years and was elected Justice of the Peace in the year 1870, which office he held for seven years, and is Township Treasurer at the present time.

GEORGE DIEHL, farmer and stockdealer, Sec. 7 ; P. 0. Mattoon ; owns 278 acres ; was born in Bedford Co., Penn., Oct. 12, 1811, and lived with his parents on the farm in that St a until the year 1837, when he ca m to Coles Co. He, was married Feb. 23, 1842, to Mary E. Jeffries, who was born in Grayson Co., Ky., Feb. 23, 1824 ; died Nov. 27, 1849. Mr. Diehl was then married April 20, 1854, to. Catharine Fuller, who was born in Virginia about the year 1821 ; died July 16, 1871. Mr. Diehl was then married Dec. 12, 1873, to Sally Matthews, who was born in Grayson Co., Ky., Aug. 2, 1816. Mr. Diehl has had six children, viz., Margaret, Thomas, Daniel, Mary E., John H. and Jennie. Mr. Diehl's parents were natives of Pennsylvania and Mrs. Diehl's of Kentucky.

THOMAS JEFFRIES DIEHL, farmer, Sec. 6 ; P. 0. Mattoon ; owns eighty acres ; was born in Coles Co., 111., Jan. 17, 1846, and lived with his parents on the farm in this township until 22 years of age. He was then married, Feb. 26, 1868, to Kittie Brunk Hankley, who was born in Grayson Co., Ky., June 2, 1847, and who has six children, viz., Anna Lee. Charles Redmond, Mary Alta, George Edmond, William Angus and Ermie. Mr. Diehl was School Director eight years, and Overseer of the Road one year. Mr, Diehl's parents were natives of Pennsylvania ; Mrs. Diehl's of Kentucky.

DANIEL DIEHL, farmer, Sec. 22; P. 0. Johnstown ; ovens eighty acres ; was born in Coles Co., 111., Jan. 1., 1848, , and lived with his parents until 21 years i of age. He was married to Martha M. Odell Dec. 21, 1868; she was born in Coles Co., 111., Sept. 9, 1849, and has had five children, three of whom are living, viz., Frank E., Albert L. and Mary E.; deceased, two infants. Mr. Diehl's parents are natives of Pennsylvania; Mrs. Diehl's, of Tennessee.

JACOB EDMON, farmer; P. 0. Charleston ; was born in Highland Co., Va., June 17, 1851, and lived with his father; engaged in farming. He was married to Alwilda Armstrong Dec. 26, 1877 ; she was born in Highland Co., Va., Nov. 9, 1852. Mr. and Mrs. Edmon's parents were natives of Virginia ; Mr. Edmon's father was one of the early settlers in this county, coming here in an early day with but very little property. He now owns 168 acres of very fine farm land on Sec. 14 in this township.

JAMES THOMAS EWING, farmer. Sec. 8 ; P. 0. Mattoon ; owns 247 acres ; was born in Coles Co., 111., Nov. 13, 1835; lived with his parents until 22 years of age. Was married Sept. 10, 1862, to Rebecca Jane Walker, who was born in Coles Co., 111., Feb. 11, 1842; moved on this farm in the fall of 1862, and has had six children, four of whom are living, viz., Nancy J., Samuel W., Gertrude and Charles M.; the deceased are Mary L. and an infant. Mr. Ewing was Township Collector of La Fayette Tp. in 1859 and 1860, and Assessor in this township four years ; he was in the late war, and went out in July, 1861, as a private in Co. C, 1st I. V. C. ; elected Corporal ; then went out in 1864 in the 135th I. V. I.; was promoted to 1st Lieutenant, and served four months, until discharged ; he was captured at the battle of Lexington, and eventually mustered out. Mr. Ewing's parents were natives of Kentucky, and Mrs. Ewins's of Tennessee.

NELSON S. FREEMAN, M. D., practicing physician in Farmington ; P. 0. Campbell; was born in Orange Co., Ind., Feb. 17, 1833, and lived with his parents until 19 years of age. He was married to Mary F. Carman Sept. 29, 1851 ; she was born in Tioga Co., Penn., April 2,

1832 ; they have had six children - Caroline M., Charles E., Lizzie A., William F., Frank F. and Matthew S., deceased. Dr. Freeman 'has been practicing medicine twenty-three years ; his practice has been quite extensive and attended with good success. Dr. Freeman was Assistant Surgeon in the 63d I. V. I. for four months, and was a second time appointed Assistant Surgeon in the army ; he was Captain of a company of colored troops, has been Postmaster in Farmington ten years, was Township Trustee eight years and Township Treasurer two years, which office he still holds. The Doctor's parents are natives of Virginia, and Mrs. Freeman's father a native of Pennsylvania, her mother of Connecticut. The Doctor owns a house and lot in Farmington.

JAMES FARIS, farmer and nurseryman, Sec. 1 ; P. 0. Mattoon ; was born in Bourbon Co., Ky., Feb. 22, 1808; engaged with his father in farming and nursery business until 30 years of age. He was then married to Rachel E. Mc- Gahan Aug. 17, 1843; she was born in Orange Co., Ind., Jan. 4, 1826 ; they have had ten children, four living and six dead ; the names of the living are Thomas C, John D., Mary E. and Charles H.; the names of the dead are William E., Sarah I., William W., George W. and Martha A. and one infant. Mr. Faris commenced the nursery business in the year 1840, and has carried it on ever since ; he has a good variety of trees on hand at present ; he has also farmed quite extensively and dealt considerably in cattle ; he owns 588 acres of fine fiirm land, and has accumulated nearly all this property in a few years by industry, economy and perseverance.

JOHN D. FARRIS, farmer and nurseryman, Sec. 2 ; P. 0. Charleston ; owns 900 acres ; was born in Edgar Co., 111., Sept. 30, 1827, and was engaged with his father in farming and nursery business until 29 years of age. Was married to Eliza J. Manfort Jan. 28, 1852; she was born in Henry Co., Ky., March 16,1833; the fruit of this marriage is eight children, viz., Caleb, Mattie M", John N., Olive, Israel J. (deceased), William, Anna and one infant. Mr. Farris' father started the first mill to grind wheat and corn in this township ; people came a great distance to mill, this being the only one for miles around ; Mr. Farris has carried on farming and nursery business very extensively, and has still a great variety of trees yet on hand ; he has put in over 4,000 rods of tiling on his own land in the last few years; raised at one time 162 bushels of grain on one acre of land.

BENJAMIN G. GLENN, farmer, Sec. 17; P. 0. Mattoon ; owns sixty acres; was born in Lawrence Co., 111., June 10, 1832, and lived with his parents until 23 years of age. He was married to Elizabeth Jeffries March 22, 1855; she was born in Coles Co., 111., in 1834; died Feb. 19, 1862. He was then married to Elizabeth Wheatstone March 19, 1869 ; she was born in Coles Co., 111., and has had six children, viz., Margaret E., Ethel L., Joseph J. ; three infants (deceased). Mr. Glenn was Justice of the Peace two years. Supervisor one term, and School Director six years. He was in the late war eighteen months, his regiment being the 5th I. V. C. ; he went out as private and was promoted to Sergeant Major and Captain ; his parents are natives of Kentucky.

SAMES TILFORD GORDON, farmer, Sec. 13 ; P. 0. Larna; owns seventy acres; was born in Coles Co., 111., Oct. 14, 1832, and lived with his parents until 21 years of age. He was married to Sarah Jane Rogers June 5, 1855; she was born in Coles Co., 111., July 7, 1838 ; they have had nine children, viz., Mary M., Luella, Willie A., Sylvester, Lizzie, Laura M., Bundy and Maddora ; deceased - H. A. Mr. Gordon has been School Director eight years, and Commissioner of Highways three years ; his father is a native of Virginia and his mother of North Carolina ; Mrs. Gordon's parents were natives of Alabama.

ELI PERRY GORDON, farmer. Sec. 24 ; P. 0. Campbell ; owns eighty acres ; was born in Coles Co., Ill, March 30, 1839, and lived with his parents on the farm until married to Louisa Hays Nov. 28, 1859 ; she was born in Coles Co., 111., April 26, 1841, and has had seven children, six of whom are living, viz., Charles W., Elme D., Byron R., Mary A., Clara B. and H. Clay ; deceased - Cora E. Mr. Gordon was Collector in this township two terms, Pathmaster two terms and School Director six years. He was in Co. E, 5th I. V. I., and served nineteen months in the late war,

JAMES C. GRAY, farmer, deceased, Larna; was born in Washington Co., Tenn., Nov. 18, 1818; lived with his parents on the farm until 30 years of age, engaging with his father in farming until he married Mary A. Mitchell Nov. 9, 1848 ; she was born in Marshall County, Tenn., May 30, 1828; they have had nine children - Robert M., David L., Mary, Alexander D., William N., John H., Lizzie J., Naomi R., and Charles. Mr. Gray held the office of Road Commissioner two terms, was Constable two years and Town Clerk one term. Mr. Robert Gray is County Attorney, and held the officeof City Attorney. Mr. A. Gray is Collector in this township at present.

GEORGE HALBROOKS, M. D., physician, Sec. 23, Larna ; owns 160 acres; was born in Gibson Co., Ind., Feb. 14, 1814, and lived with his parents on the farm until 24 years of age ; was then married to Eliza Ann Beels Feb. 22, 1838; she was born in Gibson Co., Ind., Aug. 18, 1817, and has had nine children, viz., Sylvester, William H., Nancy E., Thomas, Samuel and George A.; deceased, Columbus, Catharine and George L. Dr. Halbrooks was Surgeon for six months in the late war ; he commenced the study of medicine in 1842, and has been practicing ever since ; he has been practicing in this county twenty-seven years, and has a very extensive practice, and been very successful.

JAMES L. HACKLEY, farmer. Sec. 10; P. 0. Mattoon; owns seventy-four acres ; was born in Grayson Co., Ky., Nov. 25, 1842, and lived with his parents on the farm until 1855, when he came with parents to this county in 1856, where he has since resided. He was married Feb. 14, 1867, to Martha Jeffries ; she was born in Coles Co., 111., Jan. 28, 1847, and has five children - Katie, Emma, Olga, Harden, Oren ; Mr. Hackley has been School Director six years, and Overseer of roads two years in this township ; Mr. Hackley's parents were natives of Kentucky ; Mrs. Hackley's father was a native of Kentucky, and her mother of Virginia.

lived with his parents on the farm until 20 years of age. He was married to Elizabeth Fudge Feb. 28, 1833 ; she was born in Washington Co., Va., Jan. 15, 1814; they had twelve children - Barbara A., Samuel H., Benjamin 11., Noah W., Elizabeth, Zachariah T., Emma, Jonah, Napoleon and three infants, deceased ; Jonah Hill was born in Coles Co., 111., April 22, 1853, and lived with his father until 21 years of age. He then married Mattie A. Barr Oct. 17, 1878; she was boru in Coles Co., 111., Jan. G, 1864. Mr. J. W. Hill commenced business on the farm where he died, in this township, with only $2.50, and in a few years of industry and economy, he accumulated and left at his death a large amount of property.

WILLIAM F. HORTON, farmer, Sec. 17 ; P. 0. Mattoon ; owns 231 ^ acres ; was born in Bedford Co., Penn., Jan. 31, 1824; moved to this county with his parents in 1837 ; went to Cumberland Co., in 1838, and returned to Coles Co. in November, 1861, where he has since resided. He was married to Emeline Dryden Feb. 1, 1849; she was born in Tennessee Sept. 15, 1821, and has had seven children, two of whom are living, viz., Mary E. and William D. ; deceased are B. H., Alice, Amarintha and two infants not named. Mr. Horton has been School Director and Pathmaster several years, and was one of the first and most extensive manufiicturers of sorghum molasses in this county, and has been in the business for twenty years. Mr. Horton's parents are natives of Pennsylvania, and Mrs. Horton's, of Tennes-

JAMES JEFFBIS, farmer, Sec. 7 : P. 0. Mattoon ; owns 240 acres ; was born in Grayson Co., Ky., March 17, 1821 ; moved to this county with his parents when 10 years of age, and lived with them vintil married to Matilda Jane Johnston, Oct. 6, 1842 ; she was born in Bussell Co., Va., Nov. 28, 1822, and has had eleven children, six of whom are living, viz., Mary E., ^lartha, Johnston, Stephen D., Joanna and Kitty C. ; deceased - G. D., Leah, S. M. and two infants. Mr. JefFris was Constable four years. School Director five years and School Trustee twenty years ; his father is a native of Virginia and his mother of Tennessee ; Mrs. JeffVis' parents are natives of Virginia.

JOHN JEFFRIS, farmer, Sec. 10 ; P. 0. Mattoon ; owns 340 acres ; was born in Coles Co., 111., Jan. 26, 1831, and lived with his parents on the farm in this township until 21 years of age ; then went to California, returned and was married to Mary Vandierer, March 22, 1859 ; she was born in Indiana March 1, 1836. They have five children, viz., Balph, Bell, Hershel, Isaac and Abba. Mr. Jeffries was School Director for nine years. His parents were natives of Virginia and Mrs. Jeffries' parents natives of Kentucky.

JOHN GAUNT JEFFRIS, farmer, Sec. 16; P. 0. Johnstown; owns ninety-three acres; was born in Coles Co., 111., March 10, 1836, and lived with his parents on the farm until 30 years of age. He was married Aug. 12, 1866, to Rachel Ellen Miller, who was born in Coles Co., 111., Oct.. 18, 1849. They have had seven children, viz., Margaret E., Mary B., Anna L., Robert W., Henry S., Oscar M. and Mattie B. Mr. Jeffris has been School Director one term. Mr. and Mrs. Jeffris' parents are natives of Kentucky.

AZARIAH JEFFRIS, farmer, Sec. 15 ; P. 0. Mattoon ; owns 660 acres ; was born in Coles Co., 111., April 29, 1836, and lived with his parents on the farm in this county until 24 years of age. Was married March 10, 1860, to Ann M. Hackley, who was born in Grayson Co., Ky., March 2, 1841, and moved on the farm where he now resides. Mr. Jeffries has three children, viz., Zaraba, Shelton and Laura. Has been Commissioner of Highways three years in this township. School Trustee three years. School Director nine years, Representative of Coles Co., 111., one term. Supervisor of this township two terms in 1875, 1876, 1878 and 1879, and was Foreman of the grand jury two sessions. His father was a native of Virginia and his mother of Tennessee. Mrs. Jeffris' parents were natives of Kentucky.

LARB KELLY, farmer. Sec. 2 ; P. 0. Charleston ; owns 300 acres. Mr. Kelly lived with his parents, engaging with his father in farming until 20 years of age. Mr. Kelly was married to Mary L. Sullivan about the year 1848 ; she was born in Coles Co., 111., in 1830 ; died in 1858. The fruit of this marriage was two children - Lura A. and Sarah E., deceased. He was then married to Sarah F. Sullivan, in 1860 ; she was born in Coles Co., 111. The fruit of this marriage was six children - Susan, Elso J. and Larbia ; deceased, Mary M., Samuel V. and one infant. Mr. Kelly has held the office of School Director three years. Mr. J. Kelly, his father, was in the Black Hawk war. Mr. Kelly's parents are natives of Kentucky, and Mrs. Kelly's natives of Tennessee. Mr. Kelly is regarded as a public benefactor by all who know him. His farm is in excellent condition, well cultivated, with good buildings on same.

CHARLES E. LEITCH, farmer. Sec. 2; P.O.Charleston; owns 117 acres ; was born in Chillicothe, Ohio, April 16, 1836 ; resided with his parents on the farm until 22 years of age. He was married to Mahalia Baker March 18, 1858 ; she was born in Highland Co., Va., Dec. 19, 1837. Mr. Leitch has seven children living and two dead ; the names of the living are Lizzie, Grant, John, Charles E., Jacob, Samuel and Allen ; the deceased were two infants. Mr. Leitch has held the office of School Director ten years ; he now holds the offices of School Trustee and Road Commissioner. Mr. Leitch's father was Captain of a company of State militia in this county in an early day.

SAMUEL L. MORRIS, farmer and stock-dealer. Sec. 8 ; P. 0. Mattoon ; owns eighty acres ; was born in Logan Co., Ohio, April 3, 1855, and lived with his parents on the farm until he married Phoebe C. Lucas, Feb. 12, 1875 ; she was born in Logan Co., 111., Oct. 16,1857; they have one child - Rosetta. His parents are natives of Ohio ; Mrs. Morris's father is a native of Ohio.

WILY MATTHEWS, farmer. Sec. 21 ; P. 0. Johnstown ; owns forty acres ; was born in Morgan Co., Ind., June 27, 1842, and lived with his parents on the farm until the year 1859, when he came to this county and has resided here since. He was married Oct. 27, 1863, to Margaret Jackson ; she was born in Owens Co.. Ind., Oct. 17, 1844, died Jan. 1, 1871.' He then married Eliza T. Balch Aug. 13, 1871 ; she was born in Madison Co., Miss., Jan. 15, 1857, and has had seven children, six of whom are living, viz., Oscar M., Lizzie, Cary, Esther M., Grertrude and Mary A. Mr. Matthews has been Assessor in this township two terms. He was in the late war three years, and subsequently in the hundred-day service.

J. L. F. MILLER, farmer and stockdealer. Sec. 9 ; P. 0. Mattoon ; owns 337 acres ; was born in Trimble Co., Ky., Jan. 9, 1829, and engaged with his father in farming until 23 years of age. He was married to Rachel P. Gray Nov. 27, 1857 ; she was born in Tennessee April 19, 1829, died May 2, 1860 ; the fruit of this marriage was two children - George L. and Rachel' E. Mr. Miller then married Mary J. Romine Feb. 25, 1866; she was born in Vigo Co., Ind., July 3, 1841 ; the fruit of this marriage is eight children - Lola, Mattie, Clara, Mary T., Bertha, Katie and Clinton, and one infant deceased. Mr. Miller commenced with but little property and by his honesty, industry and economy has accumulated considerable property.

CEPHAS MILLER, farmer, Sec. 3 ; P. 0. Mattoon ; was born in Coles Co., 111., Nov. 6, 1852 ; engaged with his father in farming, until he married Alice Denman, Feb. 19, 1873 ; she was born in Jasper Co., Ill, Dec. 19, 1852 ; they have had three children, viz. : Santa Clara, she was born Jan. 7, 1874 ; Denman, was born July 16, 1875, died Nov. 20, 1877 ; Katie, born Dec. 3, 1877. Mrs. Miller's father was in the late war ; enlisted in the 97th I. V. C. ; served three months. Mr. Miller's father, J. W. Miller, is one of the largest landholders in the township. Mrs. Miller's father, J. B. Denman, was killed in the city of Charleston by a horse running away.

JOHN W. MILLER, farmer and stockdealer. Sec. 1 ; P. 0. Charleston ; owns 800 acres, worth $40 per acre ; he was born in Trimble Co., Ky., March 13, 1825 ; he lived in Kentucky until 12 years of age ; then emigrated to Coles Co., 111., where he lived with his father on the farm ; engaged in farming until he married Rebecca A. Tremble, June 26, 1851 ; she was born in Harrison Co., Ind., July 15, 1828 ; the fruit of this marriage was eight children, five living and three dead; the names of the living are Cephas, Horana, Armantha, John and James ; the names of the deceased are George, Elizabeth and Quitman. Mr. Miller went to California in 1849, returning in 1851 ; he also went

Biographical Sketches

PATRICK NICHOLSON, farmer, Sec. 12; P. 0. Charleston; owns 380 acres was born in Jetferson Co., Tenn., Nov. 6, 1809 ; resided with parents on farm, helping his father until 21 years of age; came to this State in November, 1830, to what is now Douglas Co. : Mr. N. made several thousand rails for $1 per hundred ; worked six months for $8 per month ; had nothing but one saddleiiiare ; sold mare and saddle and bridle for $8. Was married to Elizabeth Ashmore, May 17, 1832; she was born in Jeiferson Co., Tenn., March 4, 1814 ; they are the parents of eleven children, seven living ; Patrena A. (now widow of James Ealch, deceased), William A., Dorotha (now Mrs. F. A. Endsley, of Greenup), Harriet N., Albert B., Margaret M. (now wife of Thomas Newman, of Hickory Tp.), Ella E.; deceased - Joseph B., born May 30, 1833, died May 24, 1873; James M., born March 26, 1841, died March 28, 1847; Mary P. C, born Mar. 6, 1839, died June 4, 1864; Amos E., born May 8, 1845, died while in 5th Illinois Cavalry, in the fall of 1863. Mr. N. has held office of Supervisor of Township one term; he was one of the early settlers of this county, and bore his part in the hardships of those days. He commenced in this township with almost nothing; has by hard labor, economy and industry accumulated several thousand dollars worth of property. For benevolent purposes his gifts have averaged about $100 a year for forty years, for church and missionary objects ; he is a man much respected in the communitywhere he resides.

ALBERT H. ODELL, farmer, Sec. 9 ; P. 0. Mattoon ; owns eighty acres ; was born in Coles Co., 111., Aug. 5, 1844, and lived with his parents on the form in this county until married Sept. 9, 1874, to Louisa E. Miller, who was born in Coles Co., 111., Oct. 8, 1849 ; they have three children - Lola A., Milla M. and Gertrude. Mr. Odell was Township Collector two terms. He was also in the late war four months. Mr. Odell's father was in the Black Hawk war, and also in the late war four months. Mr. Odell's eldest brother was the first child born in the city of Charleston, Coles Co., 111. Mr. Odell's parents were natives of Tennessee, and Mrs. Odell's of Kentucky.

FRANCIS POPHAM, farmer and stock-dealer. Sec. 10; P. 0. Campbell; was born in Knox Co., Ohio, June 2, 1838; lived with his parents on the farm ; engaged in farming until married to Sarah E. Babbs, Dec. 11, 1862; she was born in Knox Co., Ohio, Dec. 8, 1844 ; the fruit of their marriage has been four children - William C.,"Fred D., Minnie A. and Clarence E. Mr. P. owns lOO acres of excellent river-bottom land, which he farms ; he also deals largely in horses ; he is a very liberal-hearted man, and respected by all who know him.

CARSON PORTER REED RODGERS, merchant, Farmington ; P. 0. Campbell; the subject of this sketch was born in Coles Co., 111., Nov. 1, 1840, and lived with his parents until 26 years of age. He then married Catharine Winford Richey Oct. 30, 1866, who was born in Gallatin Co., Ky., Oct. 30, 1847, and died April 14, 1869 ; he afterward married Martha Jane Veatch March 8, 1874, who was born in Washington Co., 111., Oct. 26, 1837, and has had three children, two of whom are living, viz., Isaac Walter, Kate

Rodgers was Assessor one term. Township Collector three terms. Supervisor one term and School Treasurer ten years. He is now in the mercantile business in Farmington and owns 100 acres in Cumberland Co., 111.

JOHN WHITE RODGERS, farmer, Sec. 18; P. 0. Campbell; owns seventy acres ; was born in Morgan Co., 111., Feb. 10, 1831, and lived with his parents on the farm until 23 years of age. He was married to Margaret Elizabeth Gillinnater April 5, 1854 ; she was born in Effingham Co., 111., Jan. 18, 1836; they have had six children, five of whom are living, viz., James F., Mary L., William B., Hiram M. and Henry G.; deceased - Isaac E. Mr. Rodgers was Overseer of the Road one term and was elected Justice of the Peace, which office he now holds. His parents were natives of Kentucky ; hers, of Tennessee ; Mrs. Rodgers' father was in the Mexican war thirteen months.

George Thomas Rodgers

GEORGE THOMAS RODGERS, farmer. Sec. 20 ; P. 0. Campbell ; owns 114 acres; was born in Coles Co., 111., Sept. 13, 1849, and lived on the f\irm with his parents until married to Mary Ella Brunk

Wright Nov. 25, 1876 ; ste was born in Coles Co., 111., Sept. 11, 1856 ; they have one child - Mary Blanche. Mr. Rodgers' father is a native of Tennessee, and his mother of Indiana. Mrs. Rodgers' father is a native of New York, and her mother of Tennessee. Mr. Rodgers' father made the first brick ever layed in the city of Charleston, Coles Co., 111.

JULIUS E. SMITH, farmer, Sec. 19; P. 0. Etna; owns the undivided fourth of eighty acres ; was born in Coles Co., 111., Jan. 10, 1852, and lived with his parents on the farm until 20 years of age, when he married Louisa Woolery Oct. 2, 1872 ; she was born in Putnam Co., Ind., July 19, 1856 ; they have three children - Mina L., Edna 0. and Ueorge M. Mr. Smith has been School Director two years. His parents were natives of Pennsylvania, and Mrs. Smith's of Indiana.

ISAACTAYLOR,farmer, Sec. 20; P. O. Campbell; was born in Rutherford Co., Tenn., March 16, 1829, and lived with his father on the farm, engaged with his parents in farming until married to Eliza J. Erwin April 12, 1860 ; she was born in Coles Co., 111., Oct. 5, 1841 ; they have eight children, viz., Marian W., Willie E., Oscar E., Margaret E., Perry S., Isaac V., Balas B. and Cary A. Mr. Taylor was School Director fifteen years and has held the oSice of Assessor one term. He is a Primitive Baptist. Mr. Taylor is liked by all who have the pleasure of his acquaintance, and is a minister of considerable ability, living up to what he preaches.

Jonathan Wilson Walker

JONATHAN WILSON WALKER, farmer and stock-dealer. Sec. 21 ; P. 0. Mattoon ; owns 400 acres ; was born in Bedford Co., Tenn., July 26, 1828 ; lived with his parents on the farm until 27 years of age. Married April 3, 1857, to Mary Sell; she was born in Preble Co., Ohio, March 8, 1831, and has had six children, five of whom are living - Joseph W., James A., Emma 0., Mary I. and Sarah E. Mr. Walker has been School Director ten years and School Trustee five years. His father is a native of North Carolina and his mother ot Virginia ; Mrs. Walker's father is a native of Pennsylvania, and her mother of Ohio.

Amzi Alexander Walker

May 2, 1830, and lived with his mother on the farm until 23 years of age. He married Elizabeth Johnston April 21, 1853, who was born in Coles Co., 111., Sept. 29, 1823, and moved on to the farm where he now resides ; they have had five children, three of whom are living, viz., Nancy M., William I. and Mail E.; deceased - I. C. and one infant. Mr. Walker was elected Justice of the Peace one term, when he resigned and was School Director six years. He has in his possession a letter written by his grandfather (Josiali Walker) to James Walker, bearing date 1802. and written in North Carolina.

JOHN CRAIG WHITE, farmer and blacksmith. Sec. 15 ; P. 0. Campbell ; owns 120 acres ; was born in Scott Co., Ky., Dec. 5, 1830, and lived with his parents on the farm u