Quincy Township (part 35 of 74)

Samuel B. Turner, living on section 19. Ellington township, is still actively engaged in farming although almost eighty years of age, and si;ch a career should put to shame many a man of much younger years, who grown weary of the struggles and burdens of a bu.siness life would relegate to others the work that he should do. Mr. Turner commands tlie respect and confidence of all who know him and this woi'k would be incomplete without the reeoi'd of his life.

He was born in Gardner. Massachusetts. September (i, 1825, and is a representative of one of the oldest families of :\Iassaclinsetts. He is descended from one of three brothers who came from England to America at a very early period in the settlement of the new world. His grandfather was E. Tui-ner and his father Avery Turner, both natives of iMassachusetts and now deceased. The latter was reared on a farm in the old Bay state and was there united in marriage to Miss Hannah Baker, who was also born in jMassachusetts. They started for Illinois in 1834, driving by team across the country. They were eleven weeks in making the journey, visiting a part of the time and reaching Quincy December 25, 1834. Roads were often bad and streams had to be forded. Settlements were widely scattered and often they traveled for miles without seeing any house or other evidence of settlement. In 1835 the father removed to a farm on section 19, Ellington township, settling on laud which had been entered by his brother, the Rev. Asa Turner. He had three brothers here. Rev. Asa Turner being the first Congregational minister of Quincy. He was a home missionary and rode all over "this part of the country on horseback, preaching the gospel in the pioneer settlements. Jonathan Turner was a professor in Jacksonville College for a long period at an early day. Edward Turner was a business man and later engaged in stock dealing. Avery Turner, developing a good farm, continued to reside upon the old homestead up to the time of his death, which occurred when he was seventy-six years of age. He was original ly a whig and afterward a republican. He had six children, of whom three are living: Samuel: Susan, a resident of California; and Otis A., of Quincy. The deceased are Edward, Eliza A. and Asa, who were the first, third and fourth members of the family, respectively.

Samuel B. Tui'ner was reared upon the home farm and attended the public schools. The first house upon the place was erected in 1835 and was a two-room frame structure. The second house, built of brick in 1840, is still standing, while the present residence occupied by Samuel B. Turner is a two-story brick and wa.s built in 1852. That was the year in which he was married, the lady of his choice being Miss Catherine Savage, who died at the age of seventy-three years. Thev had three children, namely: William S.. Charles E. and Mary E. William S. is an electrician living in New York city, though he spent three years in New Zealand, where he was in charge of a street railway. He married Helen Sewell and they have two children. Catherine and Edmond.

Mr. Turner was reared amid the wild scenes of pioneer life and shared in the arduous task of developing a, new farm. He joined in the ini]irovement that was made and has carried forgio ward tlu' fann work in au eiiterprisintj niaiiiier throiighout his entire life, usiug tlie latest inijn-oved machinery and adding all modern equipments. Although now eighty years of age he is still able to pitch a load of hay. Nature is kind to those who do not abuse her laws, and llr. Turn(>r has never done so. so that he still enjoys good health. His farm is situated four miles northeast of the courthouse in yuiney and contains one hundred and twenty acres of good land, devoted to the raising of grain, hay and stock. He has a nice home and well kept grounds and the place is attractive in ajipearance. forming one of the pleasing features of the landseape. His political views accord with republican jirinciples and his religious faith is indicated by his membershin in the Presbvterian church.

De Lafayette ]\Iusselman. Jr., secretary and treasurer of the Gem City Business Collei;i', of Qniney, and the manager of the D. Ij. .Musselman Publishini;- Company, was born in (,)uinev, Jlarch :n. ]S7ll, a son of De Lafayette and Mary M. (JIcDavitt) .Miissplman. The father, born April 21, 1S4"J, is a native of Fulton county, Illinois, whence he removed to Quijicy, and in lSfi2 he enlisted in the Eighty-fifth Illinois Infantry. He was elected orderly sergeant of his company, soon afterward was appointed lieutenant and finally became commander of the company and eventually was commissioned raptain. In 187(1 he became jiroprietor of the (icni ('ity P>usiness College and at the pi'esent time is ])resiilent. Uuto him and his wife were born three sons antl a daughter. De Lafayette is the eldest son.

Entering the primary grades of the jjublie school, De Lafayette ]\Lisselman, Jr., continued his studies until he had become a high school student. He afterward entei'ed the Shattuck ^Military College, at Faribault, ilinnesota, where he s])iMit a year and at the age of .seventeen he won the honors in the class of English literature. lie then returned to Quincy and pursued a two years' course in the Gem City Husincss College, mastering the branches of the comiiiereial and shoi'thand courses. He was graduated ^May 20, 189S. and won the degree of nuister of accounts.

Mr. ]\Tusseliiuin had cluirge of the L. E. Waterman fountain ])en exhibit of New York city at the Trans-ilississippi E.xposition at Omaha, and in 1898 he came to the college as an assistant teacher in the school, acting in that capacity for two years, after which, he being then twenty-one years of ace. was elected secretary of the college, to succeed W. T. Dwire, who resigned.

On the 1st of October, 1902, iu connection with W. E. White and J. H. Grafton, he purchased the ]\Iusselman Building, which was erected in 1893, at a cost of one hundred thousand dollars. The Gem City Business College uses foiu- entire floors of the Musselmau Building for study, recitation rooms, lecture rooms and college offices. The college has had phenomenal growth ever since its establishment in 1870. having doubled its attendance during the past ten years until it now has an annual enrollment of nearly fifteen hundred students.

Mr. Musselman is also the manager of the D. L. ^Iiisselman Publishing Company, of Quincy. of which he was one of the organizers. I'his company furnishes commercial text-books, books, pens and supplies of all kinds required by commercial schools, and does an extensive business, covering the entire United States. A large number of orders come from all the English speaking nations.

^h: Musselman is a member of Lambert lodge. No. 659, A. F. & A. M., Quincy chapter of Royal Arch ]\Iasons, El Aksa commandeiw. No. o."), K. T., a thirty-second degree ]\Iason of the Quincy consistory and ]\Iedinali Temple of the ^lystic Shrine, at Chicago. He is likewise a nu'mber of the Quincy Country Club and secretaiy of the Quincy Osaukee Club for the year 190.'). He lielongs to the Vermont street Methodist Episi-opal church. His iiolitical support is given to the re|uililican party. His own career is a criterion of the work of the school and its practical business training. Altlioni.:li a young man he is vegarded as one of the hading representative business men of the city, po.ssessed of a large share of that enterprise and keen discernment which liave led to the rapid and substantial u])bnil(ling of till' middle wfst.

Di'. Albert H. Sohm, although a member of the dental fraternity of Quincy for only a brief period, has already attained success that many au oldc^i- ]>i-;ictitioner might well envy and his ability and ambition are such as iusui'e further advancement. He was born in this city. August 14. 1880, and is of German lineage, his grandfather having come from Gernumy to America in the '30s. He was engaged in the grocery business in Quincy at an early day. His father, Edward Sohm, was bfirn in Quincy, in 1842, and is now engaged in the glass and chiuaware biisiness in this city. In early life he engaged in teaching school but for mauj- years has been eoiinei-ted with the crockery business, and is now the senior member of the firm of Sohm, Ricker & Wiesenhorn. He married Barbara Ilelmer and they are the parents of five living children, namely : William, who married ]\liss Rose Granacher and resides in Qnincy ; Edward, at home ; Albert H. ; Theresa, the wife of Clarence Brockmann, a resident of Jlount Sterlin-;', Illinois; and Catherine, the wife of Theodore Heideman. of Qnincy. They also lost two children.

Dr. Sohm acquired his preliminary education in the parochial schools of his native city and afterward attended St. Francis College, from which he was graduated with the class of 1898. He then entered the Union Business College and was graduated from the National Business College with the class of 1900. He took up the study of dentistry iinder Dr. Buehner, with whom he remained for two years, and then entered Washington University, at St. Louis, where he was a student for three years. He had studied dentistry while attending St. Francis College and the Business College and at Washington Universitj' he took a medical course, continuing his studies in that line to within six months of graduation. In April, 1903, having completed his course in dentistry, he opened an office for practice in Qnincy, at No. 523yo Maine street, which has since been his place of location. He became the successor of Dr. Hug and has a large and gi'owiug practice for which his practical work with Dr. Buehner, as well as his college training, well fitted him.

Dr. Sohm is a member of the Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks and also belongs to St. Boniface Catholic church, while in his political views he is an earnest republican.

William Franklin Harris

William Franklin Hai-ris, now farming on section 27, Payson township, was born ]\Iay 16, 1866, in the house where he now resides, his parents being Franklin and Emily L. (Shaw) Harris. His father, who was born in W>-the county, Virginia, September 12, 1823, was brought to Illinois by his parents, who settled in Richtield. in 1830, living in a log cabin. Franklin was reared amid the wild scenes of frontier life, sharing with the family in the hardships and privations which always come to the pioneer. His educational privileges were limited to the meagre advantages afforded by the district schools but in the school of expei'ience he afterward learned valuable lessons and by reading he kept well informed on the questions of general interest of the day. After his marriage he purchased a farm west and south of Plainville and there remained until he purchased the southwest ([uarter of section 27, Payson township, on which he resided at the time of his death. A number of years after, however, he bought a nice homestead in Plainville on section 23 and lived there until the fall of 1902, when he returned to the home farm, living with his son William P. Harris i;ntil he passed away, December 12. 1902. While in Plainville he engaged in merchandising for a number of years and afterward lived retired until called to his final rest. In 1854 he became a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and was a devoted Christian man. He was also an exemplary member of the Masonic fraternity and became a charter member of Adams lodge, No. 529, A. F. & A. M., at Plainville. One who knew him well said of him: "He was faithful and true in all the relations of life, a good husband, a noble father, an honored citizen, a brother well beloved in the Masonic order, a pillar in the house of God, a man esteemed by all who knew him."

William F. Harris was educated in the public schools of Plainville and in Chaddock College, whei'e he pursued a literary course. Following the completion of his education he conducted a store in Plainville for five years and then sold out to Thomas Baker but continued to reside in Plainville for two years, canvassing for musical instruments for Hardin Forgy. In JIarch, 1891, he took up his abode iiixiu tlie old home fami, where he has since lived and he is now the owner of one hundred and sixty acres, constituting the southwest quarter of section 27. The place is neat and thrifty iu appearance, owing to his careful supervision, jiractical methods and the modern improvements which he has placed thereon.

^Ii'. Harris was married, November 8, 1887, to ]^liss Eva L. Cane, a daughter of Sachavrell and Nanc>- (Beaver) Cane, who lived in Morgan county, ten miles noi'th of Jacksonville. Her father was born in Canada of Scotch parentage and the Beavers were of English descent. Mrs. Harris, who was born June 23, 1870, was educated in Plainville and by her marriage has become the mother of si.x children, of whom four are living: Clai-ence A., liorn September 30, ISSS; Lui'a Emily, horn August 5, 1890; Annie i\Iay, born November 22, 1892 ; Cecil Dove, who was born June 1, 1893, and died the same day, I'ranklin Hardin, who was born IMarch 7, 1894. and died the following day; and Edith Marie, born September 23, 1900. The three oldest children are attending school.

]Mr. and j\lrs. Harris are members of the ]\Iissionary Baptist church of Plainville and he is a I'cpublican iii his political views. He also belongs to the Odd Fellows lodge of Plainville, of which he is secretary and a past noble grand, and he has twice been its representative to the grand lodge. Pie also belongs to the Modei-n Woodmen camp. No. 1116, of Plainville, and he and his wife are connected with the Plainville Daughters of Rebekah lodge. No. 311. The family takes very activ(> interest in religious work. The children ai-e all members of the Missionary Bapti.st church. .Mr. Harris' mother is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and she is also connected with the Plainville lodge and also the Woman's Relief corps. The family is one of prominence in this part of the county and their iiiHuence is ever for good and for social, intelleetual and moi'al progi-ess.

George Ertel

This is a utilitarian age in which marked advancement has been made in those great departments of labor which have resulted beneficially for the majority of mankind. The spirit of invention has been dominant, and no country has made as rapid progress in giving to the world invention of practical benefit as has America. In this connection Mr. Ertel deserves distinctive mention, being one of the leading inventors and manufacturers of the great Mississippi valley. He was president of the George Ertel Company, manufacturers of hay presses,

Mr. Ertel was born in Germany, April 10, 1830. His parents were well-to-do and spent their entire lives in the fatherland, both passing away during the youth ot their sou. In the common schools of his native country Geoi'ge Ertel acquired his echication, but at the age of thirteen years he ran away from home and began learning the trade of cabinetmaking. He worked for several years in different cities in the manufacture of furniture, but, on the advice of a younger brother, who was then located in Pennsylvania, he decided to try his fortune in America, and in 1854 crossed the Atlantic accompanied by his widowed mother, an elder brother and a younger sister. They took passage at Havre, Prance, upon a sailing vessel, which after four weeks reached the liarbor of New York.

George Ertel then made a location in the state of New York, securing employment at furnituremaking iu Elmira on the 18th of June of that year, but the following year he removed to Williamsport, Pennsylvania, being engaged at cabinetmaking in that town and in different localities in the Keystone state. He continued a resident of Williamsport iiutil May, 1856, when, thinking that he would have better business opportunities in the new but rapidly-growing west, he came to Quincy, where he was employed at cabinetmaking for three years. He then removed to the village of Liberty, where he opened a small fttrniture store. It was about this time that he began to figure upon patent rights. The hay press had already been patented, and Mr. Ertel had invented and patented his first baling press, which he manufactured in connection with the condtict of his furniture business in Liberty. In many important features his hay press was an improvement on anything previotisly introduced and it attracted more than ordinary attention. At that time a hay press was practically unknown, there being but one or two machines on the market and these were quite imperfect. As there was no railroad at Liberty, he returned to Quincy in 1868 and commenced the manufacture of baling machinery, exclusively, in a small shop where the present extensive works are located. A company was formed known as the George Ertel Company, and the business has since been conducted under that name. In extent and importance the business grew very rapidly, and new styles of baling presses were introduced from time to time until Mr. Ertel conducted one of the largest and most important plants iu this line of business in the entire country. The demand covered every state and extended to Canada, Mexico and all other countries where baling maehinerv is used. The expansion of the business was continuous and gratifying and the manufacturing plant became one of the leading productive industries of Quincy. Early in 1893 Mr. Ertel invented and patented a complete line of incubators and brooders, and this branch of the business became one of its important features. In December, 1893, the entire business was incorporated under the name of the George Ertel Company, Mr. Ertel being chosen as its president, in which capacity he has served continuously up to the time of his demise, covering a period of about nine years, his death occurring February 16, 1902. He possessed marked mechanical ingenuity and superior skill along mechanical lines, and from a small beginning he developed an enterprise of considerable magnitude, it becoming a leading industrial concern and one which proved a gratifying soi;rce of profit to the stoekholdei's. The George Ertel Company plant is now located at No. 515 to 523 Kentuclry- street, and a son, Charles M. Ertel, is now president, while Mrs. Ertel, his mother, o^vns the controlling interest in the business. A large force of workmen is employed and the output of the plant is extensive.

Mr. Ertel was married in "Williamsport, Pennsylvania, to Miss Eva Elizabeth Gardner, a native of Germany, born September 10, 1838, at Newburg-on-the-Rhine, Bavaria, and a daughter of John and Barbara (Reinhart) Gardner, who were also natives of the fatherland, where Mr. Gardner conducted a large wholesale fish and game market for many years. By the growth of his bvisiness and its capable management he became very well-to-do. Eventually he crossed the Atlantic to America, settling in Pennsylvania, where he resided for a few years, and then came to Quincy, Illinois, where he lived retired until his death. His wife died in St. Louis, Missouri. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Ertel was born one child, Charles M., whose birth occurred September 18, 1864. He married Odelia Morell, and they have four children : Elsie, Pauline, Edna and Georgia Anna. The son upon his father's death succeeded to the presidency of the George Ertel Company, and is thus actively connected with the management of the business.

In his political views Mr. Ertel iisuallj^ advocated democratic principles, but at local elections, where no issue was involved, often cast his ballot independently of party ties. He never faltered in the support of his honest convictions and was always fearless in espousing a cause that he believed to be right. In 1873 he was elected a member of the city council and served for two years, while in 1875-76 he was a member of the board of supervisors. ]\Iany times he was solicited to become a candidate for office, but always declined save on the two occasions mentioned, in-eferring to give his undivided attention to his business affairs. He was a leading and inliuential member of the Masonic fraternity, becoming a charter member of the lodge at Liberty and later joining the lodge in Quincy. His life was characterized by successful accomplishment, which was the result of the development of his latent powers and the exercise of sound business judgment and unremitting diligence. He was a man free from ostentation or display, but he possessed those sterling traits of character which won him the respect and esteem of all classes of people, and when he was called to his final rest his death was the occasion for deep and sincere sorrow throughout Quincy and Adams county wherever he was known. Mrs. Ertel, still surviving her husband, o\\tis a beautiful home at No. 1261 Park Place, where she resides, and she also has other city property.

C. M. Sloan, an enterprising farmer residing on section 4, Concord township, where he has one hundred and sixty acres of land, was born March 1"-', 1846, in Greensburg, Ohio. He was a sou of John and Margai-et (Cummings) Sloan. The father was born September 26, 1813, in Lebanon, .Madison county, New York, and the mother's birth occurred in Kingston, Upper Canada, December 31, 1811. Removing westward, John Sloan took up his abode in Ohio, locating at Greensburg when a young man. During his residence there he engaged in teaching school, also practiced law and served as justice of the peace and clerk of the township. In 1876 he removed from Ohio to Adams county, Illinois, settling on section 4, Concord township, where he purchased the farm upon which his son now lives, its former owner being David Bollinger. Upon that place he spent his remaining days, his attention being devoted to agricultural pursuits until he laid aside active business cares. He died November 26, 1892, his wife having passed away January 25, 1882.

C. M. Sloan was educated at Ashtabula Normal Institute in Orwell, Ohio, and when the war broke out he joined a company of men called Squirrel Hunters, who were organized in order to drive back or capture General Mosby when he threatened an attack on Cincinnati, Ohio. At a later date J\Ir Sloan secured emploj-ment as a fai-m hand and was one day mowing grass when a man rode past on horseback and threw a paper over the fence, containing a notice of Morgan's raid in Ohio. Mr. Sloan immediately hung his scythe upon the fence, borrowed a gun and went to the county seat, where he obtained a hor.se from the livery barn and then went with a comgi8 pam- who slarted to cheek the advance of the rebel general aud finally succeeded in capturing him at New Lisbon, Ohio. In February, 1863, ^Ir. Sloan regularly enlisted, becoming a member of Company K, One Hundred and Ninety-sixth Ohio Infantry, M'ith which he served until September IS, 1865. With this command he was in active duty in the south until honorably discharged after the close of the war. He was largely on scouting duty in the Shenandoah valley.

Following the close of hostilities ^Ir. Sloan came to Illinois, where he has since remained. For several years he engaged in teaching school, being employed in many of the schools in Adams county. Since that time he has given his undivided atteiition to agricultural pui-suits aud is .justly regarded as one of the progressive and enterprising farmers of Concord township. He is to-day the owner of one hundred aud sixty acres of land on section 4, and has a well developed property, his fields being placed under a high state of cultivation, w'hile the neat and thrifty appearance of the fann indicates his careful su])ervision and progressive methods.

On the 26th of February, 1869, ]\Ir. Sloan was mai-ried to iliss Martha C. Bollinger, who was born April 16, 1851, in Concord township, Adams county, and is a daughter of David and Catherine (Riggs) Bollinger. The father was born in Claiborne county, Tennessee, ^May 28, 1811, and in 1828 went to Morgan county, Illinois, with his parents, the family home being established on a farm near Jacksonville. In 1829 he went to the Indian reservation at Osage ilission, where he spent seven years, and follownig his return to Morgan comity, Illinois, he was married on the 5th of February, 1838, to ]Miss Catherine Riggs, of Jacksonville, her birth having occurred in Tennessee. April 4, 1818. After their mari'iage Mr. and ilrs. Bollinger came to Adams county, where he purchased the east half of the southwest quarter of section 4, Concord township, and later he bought the west half of the same quarter. Hei-e lie developed what is known as the Bollinger farm, which is to-day owned and occupied by ^h: and 31 rs. Sloan. He was highway commissioner and school director for some time aud was interested in all that pertains to the progress and improvement of his locality. An earnest Christian man he was deeply interested in religious and educational work and his co-operation was always freely given for its promotion. In early life he became a member of the Presbyterian church, while in his later years he joined the Regulai- Baptist church. After selling his farm to John Sloan he removed to Arkansas, spending his I'emaining days in that state and in Colorado. He died at Eads, Colorado, September 22, 1889, his wife having died on the old homestead in Concord township, October 5, 1872. They are survived by three of their children, namely : jMrs. JMartha C. Sloan ; R. Bollinger, a resident of Colorado ; aud J. R. Bollinger, who is living in New^ jMexico.

Mr. and ]\Irs. Sloan had one child - ilyron E., who was born ilarch 29, 1871, and died J\Iay 11, 1881. The parents are members of the Christian church and are highly esteemed in the community where they reside, ilr. Sloan gives his political support to the republican party and has served as town clerk for six years and as school treasurer for fifteen years. He belongs to the C4rand Army of the Republic and thus maintains pleasant relations with his comrades, who wore the uniform of the natinn and fought for the defense of the Union.

Ii. M. Lewis

H. M. Lewis, who is now living a retired life at Camp Point, but for forty years was one of the active and energetic farmers of Adams county, accumulating thirteen hundred acres of land in Clayton township, was also numbered among the pioneer residents of this part of the state, having established his home in the county in 1840. He w^as born in Jefferson county, Kentucky, August 10, 1816. His father, Michael Lewis, who was a native of Russia, came to the new world when a lad of thirteen years. He afterward settled in Kentucky and was there married to iliss Elizabeth Omer, a native of Pennsylvania, who was reared, how^ever, in the Pine Tree state and was a daughter of Daniel Omer.

H. ]\I. Lewis spent his boyhood days in the state of his nativity, working at farm labor and acquiring his education in the public schools. He was there married to Miss Sarah Kelley, a native of Krntucl\y, November 26, 1838. They came to Illinois in 1840, settling in Clayton township, Adams county, where he rented a tract of land, on which he engaged in farming for four years. He then bought eighty acres of raw prairie land and twenty acres of timber land and, with characteristic energy, he began the development of his farm. This he at once broke and fenced and, in the course of years, productive fields returned him splendid harvests. As he found opportunity he made judicious investments until he became the owner of thirteen hundred acres of very valuable land, all lying in Clayton township. His home farm comprises two hundred and forty acres, on which he erected a good residence and substantial barns and outbuildings, and, in connection with the cultivation of the cereals best adapted to soil and climate, he also engaged in the raising of fruit and stock. He continued his active farm oi>erations until 1884, when he sold the home place to a son and purchased a irood, neat residence in Camj) I'oint. Avhere he has since lived, retired, enjoj-ing; a rest which he has truly earned.

Mr. Lewis lost his wife December 20. 1891, her remains being- laid to rest in the Pleasant View cemetery. There were twelve children by that marriao'e, all of whom are yet living, namely: Samuel K., who resides in St. Clair county, ilissoTiri ; John, a resident farmer of Adams county; William I\I., who is engaged in the harness business in Arcade, Oklahoma : Henry J., of Camp Point: Daily C, who is a farmer of Adams county: Charles E., who owns and operates the old homestead ; Sai-ah J., the wife of Sanniel Manhollan, a farmer of Clayton township : Isliirtlia, the wife of Robert Hoke, a farmer of C!ayton township : Susan, the wife of Richard S. Curry, of Camp Point ; Armenia, the wife of James H. Pierce, of Camp Point : Joanna, the wife of William X. Wisehart, of Carip Point: and Lizzie A., the wife of James E. Fiink, a resident farmer of Clayton town.ship.

Politically, Mr. Lewis is a republican. He gave his support to the whig party in early life, proudly casting his first presidential vote for William Henry Harrison, and he continued to advocate its principles until the dissolution of the advocate its principles until the dissolution of the party, when he joined the ranks of the new republican party. He has never sousht or desired office, preferring to give his imdivided attention to his business affairs. He holds membership in the Christian church at Pleasant View. Jfr. Lewis has been very liberal with his children, iii\'ing all his sons ancJ danehters a good start in life by providing them ivith liberal educational jirivileges and also with the means that enabled them to secure homes or property interests. For sixty-five years a resident of the county, he is familiar with its history from pioneer times down to the present, and his memory bears the impress of many events which have become historical in connection with the annals of this part of the state.

Ed. F. Jacobs i-esides upon a farm a mile west of Lima, where he is engaged in general agricultural pursuits and stock-i-aising. He was born Aiigust 22. 1S68. in Lima, and is a son of Francis M. and Celatha (Crenshaw) Jacobs. He acquired hi.^ education in the public schools of Lima township and in the Gem City Business College of Quiney, and being thus well equipped to meet the practical duties of life he entered uix'ii a mercantile career in Lima, continuing in that business for two and one-half years. He then sold out and began farming. In 1897 he purchased eighty acres of land on section 12, Lima township, and he lives upon a farm owned by his father-in-law, comprising one hundred and forty acres. This he operates in connection with his own land, so that he is carrying on farming pursuits on (luite an extensive scale. His land is well improved, and he also raises stock of good grades.

On the 7th of December, 1892, ]ilr. Jacobs was married to ]Miss Effie Bolt, a daughter of David and Nancy (Howes) Bolt of Lima. She was born in Adams county, ^March 14, 1870. and by her marriage has become the mother of two childi-eu : Ellett ilay, who was born ^lay 12, 1895, and Henrv Francis, born November 30, 1902.

In 1892 Mr. Jacobs was elected to the position of collector and has also served as school director for several years. Since attaining his ma.iority he has voted for the men and measures of the democratic pai-ty and is deeply interested in its success. He belongs to Lima lodge. No. 13.'), A. F. & A. M.. and Lima camp, No^. 2510, i\I. W. A. Mrs. Jacobs is a member of the Methodist Eiiiscopal church, and they have many friends in the community where they have always resided, while the hospitality of the best homes of this locality is freelv accorded to them.

John F. Pieper

The record which the American citizens hold in highest esteem is that of the self-made man, who in the course of a business career works his way ^^pwal-d from a himible jjosition to a commanding one in the world of industrialism or commercialism, through methods that neither seek nor require disguise. Such is the life history of John F. Pieper, who has spent his entire life in Qiiiucy and is now at the head of one of its large and successful indiistrial enterprises.

ifr. Pieper was born here. July 2, 1854, his parents being Simon PI. and ilai-y (Voelker) Pieper. The father came from Lijii^e, German}^, in 1848, making his waj' direct to Quiney, where he worked at his trade of cabinet making for a time and then entered the Johnson Furniture Works, being employed therein until his death, which occurred in 1901, when he was seventyfour yeai's of age. His wife also passed away in that year. They were the parents of five children, of whom two are living : John F. and Lizzie, the latter the wife of H. Sehluetter, of Quiney.

tis H farm hand for six years. When twenty-two years of age he began learning the cabinet-maker's trade with the Jansen Furniture Company, with whicli he continued for about four years. He then entered the emphty of the Joseph Kuittel Show Case Company, with whom he continued foi' two years, thoroughly mastering that business, so that in 1876, with practical experience and comprehensive knowledge, he entered the sanje line of business on his own account, in a small way. licing located on Maine street, between Fifth and Sixth streets. There he remained for three years and the business gradually expanded until within that time he was employing ten men. Finding it necessary to seek more connnodious quartei's in order to meet the increasing demands of his ti'ade, in 1879 he removed to Maine street lietween Third and Fourth streets and increased the number of his employes three-fold. The business at this time was conducted under the firm style of J. F. Pieper & Company, H. C. Pieper having been admitted to a partnership. This was continued until 1888, when the business was incorporated under the name of the Quinc.y Show Case Works, with Jlr. Pieper as president of the ctmipany and his partner as secretary and treasurer. In 1884 they removed to 28 Maine street, in a building sixtyfour by one hundred and eighty feet and four stories in height, and here employment is furnished to one hundred and fourteen men. They manufacture all kinds of show cases and store fixtures and thus from a small beginning the business has been developed to extensive proportions with a large annual output of their product and a good financial return. Mr. Pieper is also a stockholder in the Michelman Boiler Works of Quincy, and has made for himself a favorable and envialile position in trade circles here, while his laltors have been of a character that have furnished general px-osperity as well as his individual success.

Mr. Pieper was married to Isl'ms Louisa Erke, a daughter of Frank Erke, a farmer of Liberty township. Adams county, and one of the early settlers. Plis death occurred in 1899 and his wife passed away in 1897. Mr. and Mrs. Pieper were married in 1880 and they had five children, of whom one is deceased. The others are: Henry F., twenty-three years of age, connected with his father in business : Ida and Clara, at home ; and Fi-auk, who is attending the Gem City Business College. One daughter. Bertha, died at the agiof four years.

Fraternally Mr. Pieper is coinieeted with the ^Modern Woodmen of America, the jMutual Aid Society and the Knights of the Maccabees. He belongs to tlir Salem Evangelical German church, at Xiiilli and State streets, and is also a dire tor in tlu- Younu' ]\Ien's Christian

Association. In his political views he is a republican, but has had neither time nor desire to seek political preferment as a reward for party fealty-, preferring to concentrate his energies upon his business interests. There has been no esoteric phase in his career, but a persistency of purpose whii/h has overcome obstacles and surmounted difficulties. As the architect of his own fortunes he has bnilded wiselv and well.

Mrs. Mary Rice

Mi's. Mary Rice, whose home is on section 27, Houston tov.-nship, where she owns an excellent farm of one hundred and thirty acres, is a native of Westnioi'eland county, Pennsylvania, born Ajiril 17, 183(), her parents being Jacob and Hannah (Kelly) Davidson. Her paternal grandfather was also named Jacob Davidson and her maternal gran(Kather was a Mr. Kelly. Both were of English lineage. Her great-grandfather was a minister of the Presbyterian church. Her mother was born in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, March 12, 1816.

During the eai-ly girlhood of their daughter, Mary. Jacob and Hannah Davidson removed to Fayette county. Pennsylvania, where the daughter was i-eared and made her home until after hei- marriage. In 1854 she became the wife of Jolui Rice, who was born in Payette county, Pennsylvania, December 2S, 1828, and was of French aiKl German descent. He pui'sued his education in the public schools of his native state and was engaged in merchandising in Pennsylvania, after attaining his majority. In the spring of 1855 he came with his wife to Illinois, they making the .iourney down the Ohio and up the Mississippi rivers to Quincy, Illinois, and thence in a box car to Camp Point. They located in Houston to\\nshi)i, where Mr. Rice carried on general farmins' until his death. In 1858 they took up their abode on the farm which is now the hiime of Mrs. Rice, and Mr. Rice devoted his energies to its furthei" development and improvement until his life's labors were ended on the 3d of Octobei-, 189.3.

In his busj;iess affairs he was energetic and determined, resolute and persevering, and the success which he enjoyed was all gained through his iiwn eiTorts. In community affairs he was |)i-oniinent and he favored every movement and measure for the public good. He served as a school ti-ustoe and also school director and the cause of public education found in him a warm friend. He was loyal to his friends, devoted to his family, aii'i honorable in all business transactions and thus he left to his children an untarnished name. His political allegiance was given to the democracv and he served his fellow towns-

Uuto j\Ir. and Airs. Rice Avere born eight children. Theresa Ann, who was born March 7, 1856, is the wife of Samiiel J. Nevins and lives in California; Hannah F., born November 20, 1858, is the wife of John Doreh and lives in Hancock county, Illinois ; Lydia May, who was born November 29, 1860, is the wife of "William Bruffy and resides in Golden ; Cyrus D., who was born June 21. 1863, married ]\Iagg'ie Hurdle, their home being in Hancock county ; Bi-yttie, who was born November 7, 1865, became the wife of Edgar R. Strickler, a resident of Missouri, but she died January 16, 1902, leaving four daughters; Lawrence M., born September 15, 1869, is at home; George H., who was born September 21, 1872, married Myrtle Sammous, their home being in Houston township ; Arthur W., who was born February 26, 1875, is living at liome. Tlic two sons at home are opertaing the farm for tlieir mother. They are democrats in their political faith and both George and Lawrence are members of the Masonic fraternity, while Ai-thur is identified with the Odd Fellows lodge at Golden. The last named practically has charge of the farm and is engaged in the cultivation of the fields and the raising of stock, both branches of the business returning a good income. The fai'm comprises one hundred and thirty acres of lich and arable land, which is pleasantly and conveniently located within four and a half miles of Golden, and is situated on sections 22 and 27. Houston township.

Mrs. Rice is a member of the United Brethren church. She has lived U])iin the old home farm since 1858 and has been a resident of the county for a half century, during which time a wonderful transformation has been wrought here in all the lines of business activity. She can recall many scenes and incidents of pioneer times and her memory forms a connecting link between the past, with its lack of improvements, and the progressive present, when all sections of the county show everv indication of an advanced civilization.

Sanmel N. Cook, a prosperous and prominent farmer of Ellington township, living on section 29, was born in London, England, December 25, 1844, and is a son of John and Ann (Reynard) Cook, also nati\"es of England, the former born January 13, 1802. the latter IMarch 4, 1814. The father engaged in gardening in his native land and in 1845 he bade adieu to his friends and native counti'y and sailed with his family to America. He located in Adams county and the following year he purchased forty acres of land now owned by Harris Cook, joining the land of Samuel N. Cook on the south. He farmed there until his death, which occurred September 16, 1876. He was one of the worthy pioneer residents of the county and died respected by all who knew him. In his family were seven children: James II., now deceased, who served for three years in the Civil war as a member of the One Hundred and Nineteeth Illinois Infantry; Reynard, of Quincy, who for three years served as captain in the Third Wisconsin Infantry; John, a member of a publishing company of New Yoi'k city ; Mrs. Anna Smith, of Kansas : Samuel N. ; Harris, who is on the home farm ; and ]Mrs. Rebecca Haynes.

Samuel N. Cook was only six weeks old when his parents came to the United States. He was reared and educated in Adams county, no event of special importance occurring to vai'y the routine of far)n life for him in his youth. He continued to reside upon the home farm until 1881, when he purchased forty acres where he now resides. Here he raises corn and stock, some of his land being devoted to pasturage, and he has good grades of cattle and hogs. He also owns eighty acres about a mile from his home place, devoted to general farming, and twenty acres of timber land.

On January 28, 1875, Mr. Cook married Miss Martha Powell, who was born in Ellington township, September 16 1848, a daughter of John Powell, who was born in Kent county, Delaware, June 13, 1802, and was a son of Mark Powell, of Delaware. His father was a native of England. John Powell wedded Mary Lewis, who was born in Kent cour.ty, Delaware, March 10, 1809. and \vas a daua'hter of Benjamin Lewis, also a native of that state. Mr. and Mrs. Powell came to Adams county in 1832 and settled in Ellington township, where he entered three hundred and twenty acres of land from the government. This was entirely wild and imimproved and the first tax which he paid amounted to only sixty cents. He continued the cultivation and development of his fai-ni until he wrought a wonderful transfornuition in its appearance and it became very productive. He died March 6, 1881. at the age of eighty years, and his wife passed away November 11, 1892, when eighty-two years of age. There were fifteen children in the Powell family, of whom the following ai-e living: Mrs. Hester A. Kidney, of Oklahoma ; Mrs. Nancy Cochran, of Iowa; Mrs. IMargaret Cook, of Quiney: Mrs. Cook: Mrs. Matilda Banghert, of Bloomfield, Illinois; and Thomas, a farmer of Quincy. LTnto Mr. and ilrs. Cook have been born five children : Charlotte. Cora, John, Arthur and Edgar.

having served as township collector, road commissioner and school trustee. He is publicspirited and fosters every movement for the general good, and his personal worth has endeared him to many friends, who have known him from his boyhood days to the present time.

William Grewe

"William Grewe, whose Inisiness career clearly illustrated the possibilities for accomplishment through diligence and determination in America, having come to this country empty-handed and steadily worked his way upward to affluence, was born in Germany, March 18, 1851. His parents were farming people of that country and there spent their entire lives. The son was reared upon the home farm, early becoming familiar with the practical work of the fields, and in the public schools he acquired his education. Feeling, however, that labor in America is a more direct source of profit than in the old country, where wages are very low, he sailed for the United States in 1870, coming direct to Quincy. He was then in early manhood and in order to learn the English language and also broaden his knowledge, he a-r^ended the public schools here and worked at various kinds of labor in order to meet his expeuses while pui'suing his education.

Mr. Grewe afterward went to Hancock count.y, Illinois, where he engaged in farming for a short time, aud then returned to Quincy, but after a brief period he purchased a farm here in Adams county, near the village of Fowler, where he engaged in general agricultural pursuits. Success attended his labors and the sale of rich crops enabled him to liny more land until he was the owner of a very valuable and productive tract of two hundred acres, on which he placed many modern improvements.

Mr. Grewe was twice mai-ried. He first wedded Mary Lindenberger, who died in Quincy, 1894. He afterward married Miss Lena Spory, a native of Germany, born January 9, 1861, and a daughter of John and Elizabeth (Wagner) Spory, also natives of Germany, whence they came to America at an early day, settling in Hancock count.y, Illinois, where the father continued to engage in farming until his death. His wife also died on the farm there. Mr. Grewe had two children by his first marriage : Frederick W., who has been an invalid during the greater part of his life and now resides with ]\Irs. Grewe; and August B., who is his father's successor in business. He married Lulu Swartz and resides at No. 1016 York street.

to Quincy and took the city contract for the sprinkling of all the streets. He purchased several sprinkling wagons, employed several men and gave his personal supervision to the business until his death. He also engaged in the retail coal business, but because of failing health he turned the business over to his son and retired to private life. His death occurred January 8, 1904.

He was always deeply interested in politics, was an earnest champion of republican principles and did all in his power to promote the growth and insure the success of his party. He held iiiemlicrship with the Salem Evang-elical church, to which his wife also belongs. His business career was marked by steady advancement and growing success. He made the most of his opportunities, was reliable at all times, and as the years advanced his capital increased until he was the possessor of considerable real and personal property at the time of his demise. He built the brick residence where his widow now resides, at No. 301 South Eleventh street, and she owns other residence property at the corner of Fifteenth and Adams streets. She also has the old home farm of two hundred acres near the village of Fowler, partly lying in Gilmer and partly in Ellington tnwnships.

Alfred 0. Ament

Alfred C. Anient, one of the successful farmers of I.Trsa townshiji, whose prosperity has resulted entirel.v from his own labors, was born in Hancock county, Illinois, December 30, 1852, and is a son of Calvin and jMartha Ann (Lee) Anient. His parents came to Hancock county from the state of New York in early childhood with their respective parents. The father, who was b(uii in 1822, was educated for the miuistiy and about 1847 he was married and settled near Warsaw in Hancock county. Wlieu he became a resident of this titate it was a wild, frontier region, few homes having been made in the district where the family located. Indians were very numerous and there were many jianthers, wolves and bears. The family bore the hardships and trials incident to frontier life and aided largely in the substantial development of the county. Rev. Calvin Ament was a Methodist minister and preached frequently Ijetween Warsaw and Quincy. He would make an appointment to hold a service and would then deliver his sermon under a large elm tree. He dieci in the year 1854, and his wife passed away in August, 1885. They left two children, IMarshall David, who is now living in Clarion county, INIissouri: and Alfred C.

county, Ulino-s, and in the high school at Camp Point. He was also a graduate of the International Businens College of Quiney. After leaving school, he hegan teaching in district No. 71, Ui-sa township, and followed that profession there for eighteen years. He afterward tanght for one year in Ursa and one year in Marcelliue. He has been a life insurance agent for several years and has owned and managed his farm since 1881. During a part of this time he also engaged in teaching school and has been an important factor in the educ itional development of the county. He has resided continuously upon his farm since ] 889 and is to-day the owner of two hundred and eighty aci'es oC rich bottom land, on which he carries on general agricultural pursuits. The fields are well tilled and all modern improvements are seen upon his place, so that it is one of the best farms of the locality.

Mr. Anient was married July 31, 1878, to Miss Amanda L. ililler, a daughter of John L. and Susan J. (Jenkins) IMiller, the former a native of Illinois and the latter coming from Kentucky. Her father was a farmer by occupation and in 1862 he enlisted in the Seventy-eighth Illinois Infantrj' with his brother. W. E. Miller, of Marcelline. He was wounded September 20, 1863, at the battle of Chickamauga and after h' ing on the held for three days M'as taken to the hospital, where he died six weeks later. His wife's death occurred December 15, 1904, upon the farm near Ursa, when she was seventy-six years of age. ]Mrs. Ament was educated in the dLstrict schools, being four years one of her husband's pupils during her girlhood, and after her marriage she taught school in the Rock Creek and Indian Grove districts for two years.

In his political views Mr. Ament is a republican and has served as township treasurer for more than twentv vears. He belongs to !Marcelline lodge No. 114. A. F. & A. M., the Knights of Pythias fraternity and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He and his wife hold membership in the Christian church at Ursa and are active and zealous workers in its behalf, while their many sterling traits of character have gained for them the warm friendship of all with whom thev come in contact.

Di-. Joel Darrah, who figured prominently in the history of Adams county as a representative of the medical fraternity for many years, and whose life proved a great benefit to his fellowinen, is yet remembered by many of the older settlers of Adams county and no history of Honey Creelc townshi]> would be complete without the record of his career. Dr. Darrah was born on the 20th day of July, 1808, in eastern Pennsylvania and his boyhood and youth were spent upon the farm, during which time he worked in the fields and profited by such educational privileges as the public schools of the day and locality afforded. He possessed, however, a strong mind and laudable ambition, and determining to enter the medical profession he matriculated in the University of Pennsylvania, being graduated from its medical department about 1834 or 1835. Following his graduation he located for practice in the office of his brother. Dr. jMark Darrah, for a year.

About 1836. however, he emigrated to Illinois, believing that the new, but rapidly developing, west would offer him an excellent opportunity for practice. Coming to this state he first began practicing at Collinsville, St. Clair coimty, Illinois, where he remained until 1841: That year witnessed his arrival in Adams county and he located on Section 13. Honej' Creek township. Although living on a farm he acquired an extensive practice - greater perhaps than that of any other physician who practiced in western Illinois at the time. His field of labor covered an area extending from Jlendon on the west to Mount Stei'ling on the east, and from Columbus on the south to Carthage on the north. He continued an active practitioner until the infirmities of age compelled him to jiut aside the labors of the profession. In 1866 he announced his intention of retiring, but even after this he was frequently called into consultation by his brother practitioners and was also called to visit some of his old neighbors or friends who were loath to do without his professional services. His was the lot of the pioneer physician, who, living in a sparsely settled district, endured many hardships in practicing his profession. He had to drive long distances over the country in the heat of summer and the intense cold of the winter and as the roads at times were almost impassable, he went on hoi'seback to visit his patients. He was a gentleman of kindly spirit and broad, humanitarian principles and sjinpathies and always responded to the call of the sick and suffering, giving little regard as to whether he would i-,>c('ive any compensation or not. However, he ]n-ospered as the years went by and during his residence in Honey Creek township he acquired land to the extent of six hundred and forty acres. He was engaged somewhat largely in the raising and feeding of cattle and after retiring from professional life concentrated his energies ujton this branch of his business, in which he continued throughout his remaining days.

Ahiria Xclson, a dausi'liter of William Nelson, of Houston townshij), Adams eoviuty. She still survives her husband and now malies her home in Salt Lake City, Utah. Dr. Darrah was an old school democrat, unfaltering in supi^ort of the party. In his religious views he was liberal and independent, caring not for sects, creeds or fads, bixt exemplyfying in his life much of the Christian si^irit and of the teachings of Him who came not to be ministered uuto but to minister. In the fall of 1876, while attending to some work in connection with his cattle-raising- interests on the Mississippi bottoms, he had a slight stroke of paralysis and his health gradually failing, his death resulted on the 2'2d of September, 1878, his remains being interred by those of his tirst wife in Coatsburg cemetery. His life had indeed been a iisefiil and helpful one and his fellowmen and the world are better for his having lived.

Dr. Frederick M. Pendleton, who in the practice of his profession is making a specialty of treatment of diseases of the eye, ear, nose and throat and is attending oculist and aurist to Blessing Hospital of Quincy, was born in Lansingburg, New York, iu September, 1859, his parents being Henry and Harriet (Smith) Pendleton, the former born September 10, 1829, and the latter August 30, 1832. The paternal grandfather, a resident of Virginia, removed from that state to New York. Henrjc Pendleton was a merchant and in 1861 removed to Minooka, Grundy county, Ulin'.is, where he engaged in the hardware business. He was on his way to Chicago to buy goods when he was killed in an accident on the Rock Island railroad, near Joliet, January 25, 186-1, being at that time only thirty-four years of age. He was a local preacher of the Methodist Episcopal church and was studying for the work of the regular ministry when his death occurred. His widow still survives him. They were the parents of four children, of whom one is deceased.

Dr. Pendleton, the third of the family, attended the jiublic schools of Rlinooka, Illinois, and afterward entered the Wesleyan University at Bloomington, where he remainel until 1880, when he began preparation for a professional career by enrolling as a student in Rush ]\Iedical College of Chicago. At the end of his fli^st course of lectures lie became a nurse in the Cook County Hospital, where he remained for a year, when he re-entered Rush College, being graduated with the class of 1883. At the same time he pursued coui-ses in ophthalmology and otology under Professor E. L. Holmes and Professor W.

T. IMontgomery. He located for practice at Magnolia, Putnam county, Illinois, where he engaged in the general practice of medicine and surgery for about eleven years. In 1893 he pursued a post graduate eoiirse on the diseases of the eye, ear, nose and throat, at the Chicago Polyclinic School of Medicine, and in 1894 he returned to Chicago and spent one year in the hospital and clinics and in the Illinois State Charitable Eye and Ear Infirmary.

In 1895 D]-. Pendleton located in Quincy and has since limited his practice to the treatment of diseases of the eye, ear, nose and throat, with office in the Stern building. He has been very successful here and not only received a liberal patronage from Quincy but also from surrounding districts and far into Missouri. He is also attending oculist and aurist to Blessing Hospital and is accounted one of the most competent specialists in his line in the middle west. He belongs to the Illinois State Medical Society, Adams County ^Medical Society, Quincy I\Iedienl Library Association, American Academy cf Oplithalmolo;v and Oto-Laryngology, and thus keeps iu touch with the advancements of the science that result in practical benefit in the treatment of disease. He has read broadly along the line of his specialty and the profession as well as the public acknowledge his right to rank with llic most capable oculists and aurisfs of the state.

Dr. Pendleton Avas married to Miss Allie A. Dirst, a daughter of Fletcher Dirst, formerly a farmer and stock-raiser of Grundy county, Illinois, and now living retired in IMinooka. They wcT'e married in 1884 and have two daughters: Xettia v., born in 1885; and IMiriam B., in 1896. The parents are members of the Vermont Street Methodist Episcopal church and Di-. Pendleton is a repiiblican. exercising his right of franchise in support of the men and measures of that party. He is first and above all a physician, performing each day's duty with a sense of conscientious obligation and the consensus of public opinion regarding him is most favorable, professionally and sociallv.

Chaddock Boys' School

Chaddock Boys' School had its beginning in the early '50s, wh^n it was known as the German and English IMethodist Academy, and it has always been under the dii-ection of the ]\Iethodist Episcopal church. Professor Jaccpies, one of its eai'ly teachers, was president from 1860 until 1865, and in the latter year, the Rev. George W. Gray, became president, continuing at the head of the institution until 1871 or 1S72, and during that time D. L. ilusselman, now president of the G(?m City business College, was a teacher in the institution from 1867 until 1870. Upon the retirement of President Gray, the name was changed to Johnson CoUege, but this name was retained for only two or three years, when it became kno^vn as the Chaddock College. The former location of the school was where the Jeft'erson public school now .stands. About 1880, the school having become involved in debt. C. C. Chaddock, a philanthroiaic man of Astoria, Illinois, gave a large sum of money to the institution, and when the John Wood property, at the corner of Eleventh and State streets, was sold in the courts, it was purchased by the college, which at that time became known as Chaddock College, that name being retained until changed to the Chaddock Boys' School, in 1899. At that time it was decided to make it a school exclusively for boys, and since then it has enjoyed an era of marked prosperity and growth, having paid off its debt, so that it is free from all financial incumbrances.

About 1883, H. J. Yickers, of Adams county, gave to the school a large siun of money and this was used in the erection of a large three-story brick building with basement. It is one hundred and twentj' by sixty feet and is used for a dormitory in connection with the school. Boys are admitted between the ages of six and sixteen years and may pursue academic and preparatory courses, fitting them for regular college work. The students are from sixteen different states and receive most thorough instruction. The school is conducted upon an economic basis and is under the direction of the ^Methodist church, the property being owned by the Illinois Conference.

The assistant principal is Miss Anna Johnson, who is also teacher of drawing and manual training. Fourteen otlier well trained teachers constitute a competent faculty, with an enrollment of one hundred and twenty -five pupils. Half of the work is free, and the funds are supplied by friends of the institution.

Miss Eleanor A. Tobie, now principal of the Chaddock Boys' School, is a native of Rantoul. Champaian county, Illinois, and is a daughter of H. S.'^and :\Iary E. (Pritchard) Tobie'i the former a native of Massachiisetts, and the latter of Virginia, her ancestors being among those represented in the Revolutionary war. The Tobie family came originally from Ireland. Miss Tobie attended the public schools of Prairie

City, Illinois, to which place her parents removed in her early girlhood, and she completed the high school course there by graduation. She afterward attended Hedding College, at Abingdon, Illinois, and also the State Normal School, and was a teacher in the public schools of Mc- Donough county, Illinois, for ten years. She afterward attended the Chicago Training School and for a time traveled for the school in the east. Miss Tobie is a member of the Order of the Eastern Star and has served as worthy matron in her home town. She is also a deaconess in the ilethodist Episcopal church and her abilitj' as an educator is well Imown.

In Januaiy, 1899, she came to Quiney to take charge of the Chaddock Boj's' School, of which she has since been principal. The success of the school is largely due to her efficient management and the labors of Dr. W. T. Beadles, its president, and "\V. T. Dwire, its secretary. The school is now one of the solid educational institutions of the city and has done most creditable work under Miss Tobie 's direction.

ilartin B. Kuhns owns and operates a farm of one hundred and thirty-one acres on section 36, Ursa township. He is a native of Pennsylvania, his birth ha-\"ina' occurred April 14. 1832. His father, Philip Kuhns, was also a native of the Keystone state. AMien a young man ]\lartin B. Kulms came to Illinois, living in Mendon for some time and afterward removing to Ursa. Following his marriage he took up his abode north of Ursa, where he purchased a farm, living there for ten or twelve years. He then sold that property and bought a farm on sectiim 36, Ursa township, where he now lives. Here he has one hundred and thirty-one acres of fine land and is engaged in general farming, having a well developed property, the richly cultivated fields indicating his eareftil supervision by the growth of crops. In the farm work he is associated with liis son. Although now nearly seventy -three yeai's of age, he works in the fields nearly all of the time just as he did twenty years ago when in the prime of manhood.

~Sh: Kuhns was married in ^larch. 1857. to IMiss ^lary E. Daugherty of Ui-sa. a daughter of :\Iiehael and Elizalieth fFunk") Daugherty. They have four living childi'en : Lizzie E.. who is the wife of "William E. Ralph, a resident of Quiney: James A . : Anna : and Alice A .

^Ir. Kuhns is a democrat in his political views but has never souglit or desired public office, preferring to give his undiA-ided attention to his inisiness affairs. He has. however, served as scliool director for many years ami has ever taken a deep and eomniendahle interest in everythins; pertainint;' to the general welfare and has done all in his power to promote public progress.

Masoxv. Riddle

ilasou V. Kiddle, who is successfully engaged in the breeding of tine Hereford cattle and Duroc Jersey hogs upon his farm in Keene township, was born December 25, 1863, at the place where he now resides, his jjarents being George D. and Elmina (Varnier) Riddle. The father was born in Falmouth. Kentucky, January 2, 1822, and came to Adams county about 18-10. He conducted a, hotel in Uvsa for several years and then sold that property and located upon the farm which is now the home of his son ]\Iason. He had been married after his removal to this state to Miss Elmina Varnier, who wan born in Gallatin county, llinois. November 6, 1826. His death occurred September 29. 1875, but his wife still survives and makes her home with her son ilason.

In the schools of Loraine Mason V. Riddle pursued his education and he was reared to farm life, early becoming familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. He has always engaged in the work to which he was reared and is to-day the owner of one hundred and sixty acres of very productive land on sections 15 and 16, Keene township. He also cultivates one hundred and thirty acres of land belonging to his brother, who lives in Colorado. He is pai'ticularly well known as a stock-raiser, making a specialty of Hereford cattle, having now upon his place a herd of about fifty head of registered and graded cattle. He also has full blooded Duroc Jersey hogs and has done not a little to improve the arade of stock raised in this county. He annually markets considerable stock and finds a ready sale for all that he sends from his farm.

In 1888 :\lr. Riddle was married to rkliss Florence Hill, who was liorn near Loraine, April 17, 1869, and was a daughter of Cornelius and Amanda (Payne) Hill. Her father removed with his family to California when Mrs. Riddle was very young and lived there for eleven years. His wife died during that period. Mr. and Mrs. Riddle have heeonie the parents of two children, who are yet living, and have lost four, the family record being as follows : Iva, who was born January 5. 1889, and died in July of the same year: Guy D., who was born September 4, 1890, and lives at home : Mabel, who was born December 23, 1894, and died February 3, 1895 ; Lizzie, who was born April 19, 1896, and is with her parents; Homer B., who was boi-n December 14. 1898. and

The parents belong to the Christian church and are interested in its work and contribute generously to its support. 'Sir. Riddle adheres to the principli'S of the republican party, believing its jilatform contains the basic elements of good government. He is a member of IModern Woodmen camp. No. 2152, at Loraine. He has led a very l>usy and iiseful life and the greater part of his possessions have been acqiiired entirely through his own efforts so that his history shoi;ld serve to encourage and inspire others, showing what can be accomplished through energy and untiring ei'fort in a land not hamjiered l\v caste or class.

Phillip Wisman

Phillip Wisman, the well known proprietor of the Locust Grove farm on section 12, Riverside township, has been a resident of Adams county since 1857. He is a native of Prussia. Germany, born in 1838, and is a son of G. Wisman, who was a. farmer of the fatherland. On the old homestead farm Phillip Wisman was reared, and his education was acquired in the public schools near his home. He continued a resident of Germany vintil 1857, when, at the age of nineteen years, he crossed the Atlantic to the United States, landing at New Orleans, Louisiana, whence he proceeded up the Mississippi river to Quincy. He Avas first employed by the month as a farmhand, for he had no capital to enable him to engage in business on his own accoiint. Desirous, however, of entering upon an independent business career, he rented land in Ellington township and in Ursa township. Subsequently he rented his present farm in Rivei'side township, and when his labors had brought him sufficient capital to enable him to become a land owner he purchased this farm, thus coming into possession of eighty acres, in 1878. He has since added to his property from time to time until he now owns altogether two hundred acres of very valuable farming land. He has a dairy of fifty cows and splendidly equipped creamery, with an excellent engine. He makes buttei- twice a week, and the product of the creamery, because of its excellent quality, finds a ready sale on the market. He has both Jersey and shorthorn cattle, and also raises Chester white hogs, having about two hundred each year. His fields are planted to corn and hay crops and the various departments of his business yield to him a good financial return. He has one of the best improved farms in this part of the county, it being equipped with a good residence and large and substantial outbuildings. His sons are of great assistance to him, and he has every reason to be proud of his family.

In 1867 J\Ir. Wisman was married to Miss Henrietta Nagle, who was born in Germany and is a daughter of Ernest Nagle, who came to the United States in 1857. He was a cabinetmaker by trade and followed that trade in Quincy. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Wisman have been born seven children : Walter, at home : Mrs. Carrie Glascott; Ernest, who was married in 1904 to Miss L. Chattan : Richard, Roy and Florence, all at home ; and Helen, deceased.

Mr. Wisman gives his political support to the republican party and is deeply interested in its success and growth. The hope that led him to seek a home in America has been more than realized, for here he has found the business opportunities he sought, and by industry, diligence and perserverance he has gained success, and at the same time has won the confidence and friendship of many with whom lie has come in contact. His life record pi'oves what can be accomplished through labor when guided by soiind .judgment and his history should serve to encourage and inspire others.

Joseph Jefferson

Joseph Jefferson is one of the extensive landowners of Adams county, now living a retired life. He M-as born October 25, 1837. in Harlem, now a part of New York city, his parents being Thomas and Hannah (Twilton) Jefferson, both of whom wer-e natives of Yorkshire, England. The father was born April 15, 1802, and the mother's birth occurred on the 12th of February, 1812. They came to New York from England, in 1835, soon after their marriage and remained in the eastern metropolis for three years, after which they came west to Quincy. Here the father worked for John Sharp on a farm east of Quincy, and in 1841 he took up his abode in Concord township, where he purchased forty acres of land, but after residing thereon for a short time he then moved to the farm on which he spent his remaining days. To this tract of one hundred and twenty-two acres he added from time to time as his financial resources increased luitil at one time he owned three hundred and sixty acres. He died in 1886, while his wife passed awav in 1872.

Joseph Jefferson obtained his education in the public schools and was trained to work on the home farm, assisting materially in the cultivation of the fields imtil after the outbreak of the

Civil war, when he enlisted in Company I, One Hundred and Nineteenth Illinois Infantry, in 1862, and served for three years, holding the rank of corporal. During that time he saw service in Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi, Penn- .sylvania and Washington, D. C. He was with the regiment eighteen months and then was transferred to the east, where he spent the remainder of the time in defense of the old flag. Following the war Mr. Jefferson returned to his father's fai-m and in March, 1867, he was married to IMiss Emily Williams, who was born February 20, 1837, in ]\Iaine county, Indiana, a daughter of Benjamin and ilargaret (Bennett) Williams, the former born in Tennessee, March 23, 1796, and the latter in Virginia, on the 20th of March, 1799. Mr. Williams passed awav December 28. 1849, and his wife. March 20, *1865. Mr. and Mva. Jefferson were married in Indiana and he then returned with his bride to Adams county. They have one son - Thomas E., who was born January 26, 1869, and married Luvenia Peavehouse, of Clayton. They live with his father and they have two children : Augusta, born July 2S, 1893 ; and Joseph Benjamin, born December 10, 1896. Thomas Jefferson is a graduate of Chaddock College, of Quincy, and has always been associated with his father in business. Altogether they own six hundred acres of fine land, four hiindred acres belonging to the father and two hundred acres to the son. Thomas Jefferson, hov/ever, .superintends and operates the entire farm, thus relieving his father from all bu.siness cares and to-day Joseph Jefferson is enjoying a well earned rest. Their land is located on sections 9 and 10, Concord township, and is a rich and prodiictive tract, yielding good harvests, l^oth the father and son are supporters of the republican pai'ty and the entire family are members of the ]\Iethodist church. 'Sh: Jefferson is also a member of Clayton lodge. No. 147, A. F. & A. M., and belongs to the Grand Army of the Republic, thus maintaining pleasant relations with his old army comrades. In matters of citizenship he has always been loyal and in business affairs has been progi'essive and enterprising, so that to-day he is one of the prosperous residents of his county.

Millard F. Lester

]\nilai'd P. Lester, who ovms and operates a farm of one hundred and fifty-six acres on section 24, Payso?i township, was born upon this place, December 5, 1859, his parents being William D. and Evaline (Gooding) Lester. The father was a native of Kentucky, born IMarcli 6, 1819. and his parents were William and Eliza- beth Lester, both of whom were of English lineage and were residents of Kentucky at an early day. William D. Lester removed to Indiana, settling in Dearborn county upon a farm. He had two sisters, both of whom are deceased, and one brother, George AV. Lester, who is a eoopei' l)y trade and is now Jiving in ('layloii, Adams county, having come to Illinois prioi' to the arrival of his brother William. 'I'lie latter came in 18-tG and settled first in .Mendon, where he followed coojiering. In 1850 he located on what is now the old Lester homestead and for many years successfully carried on farming, becoming owner of one hundred and fifty-six acres of land, which, owing to the im]3rovements made and the cultivation bestowed upon it, became valualile property. He died September 13, 1892, at the age of seventy-three years, and his wife, who was born February 28, 1826, is still living, in the en.iJiynient of very good health. She is a member oi' the ]\Iissionarv na])tist church at Plainville.

In the family were seven ehildi-eu, of whom five are living: Atha Ellen, born in Janizary, 1850, became the wife of Howard M. Sale and they lived in Los Angeles, California. She died in 1902, leaving her husband and one son, the former engaged in the wholesale drug biisiness. ]Mary Frances married Dewey Kelley, who died at tlieir home in El Paso, Texas, March 25. 1893, after whieli his widow I'eturned to Illinois and is now living with her mother. Willliam W., who is a stock buyer of Plainville, married Clara Benson and they have one daughter. Albert D., a land agent and pro])erty owner at Guthrie, Oklahoma, married Annie Harris and has three living children. Alice E., twin sister of Albert, is the wife of Henry Wagy, a farmer living a mile and a half southwest of Plainville, and they have one child. Wilbui- II., who married Eva Morris, by whom he ha(' three children was a policeman of Guthrie, Oklahoma, and was killed by a gang of desperadoes who were robbing a car of groceries. He was then thirty-seven years of age. His widow now lives in Tingley, Iowa.

ilillard F. Lester, the seventh member of his father's family, was educated in the public schools and has always lived upon the old homestead farm, working in the fields in his youth when not enga^-ed with the duties of the sehool room. Since attaining his majoriy he has engaged in stock dealing to a greater or less extent, and has been very successful in business, being an excellent .judge of stock, so that he is enabled to make .indicious luirchases and profitable sales. Ilis fields are also well tilled, and his is one of the good f,-iniis of the county.

Fliza Qjanib; ^Morris, who were natives of Licking county, where their childhood days were passed. Kemoving to Illinois, they settled in Crawford county, whei-e Mrs. Ijester was born August 28, 1892. Her parents died in Crawford county and she came tt) Adams county in 1884, living with an aunt, Mrs. Ann Baker, in Rich- Held township. ^Ir. Lester had been previously married, his iirst wife being Julia Baker, a daughter of Simon and Ann (Lamb) Baker and a cousin of his present wife. There was one child by that marriage, Lura, born April 9, 1883, and now the wife of Alvin McKee. They live at the home of her father.

Mr. Lester is a republican in his political views and is a school director. He belongs to the Modern Woodmen camp and to Stone's Prairie lodge. No. 759. I. 0. 0. F., of which he is a past noble grand and both he and his wife are members of the Rebekah lodge. They are also members of the ^Missionary Baptist church at Plainville. Mr. Ijester has always lived the quiet life of the farmer, but in his business career has displayed ihc valuable qualities of self-reliance, diligence and perseverence which always lead to success, and he is now one of the substantial farmers of the countv.

Dr. L. II. A. Xiekersim, one of the leading representatives of the medical fraternity in Quincy, was Ixirn in Camden, Delaware, January 27, 1851. He is directly descended from William Niekerson, of Norwich, England, who Avith his family sailed from Ipswi.'h .\pril 8, 1637, in the ship John and Doi-othy, to make for himself a home in the new world. He landed in Boston, June 20, 1637. lie located at Yarmouth and while there made the first of a series of purchases of land from the Indians, which has since become Chatham, founded a1 that time by himself and mendjers of his family. Lineal descendants are still living on the land purchased at that time. William Niclcerson had three sons. One of these remained in .Alassachusetts, a second located in .Maryland and the third in Delaware, and it is from the latter branch that Dr. Niekerson is descended.

He obtained his early education in Dover and Wilmington and graduated in medicine and .surgery from the I^niversity of Penn.sylvania in March, 1874. F(n' two years he practiced as resident physician in the Philadelphia Hospital, locating in Quincy in the spring of 1877. During his twenty-eight years' residence here he has built u]) a very extensive practice. For several years lie had exclusive ehai-ge of Blessins' Hospital and is now consulting physician and president of the medical staif. Dr. Nickerson is also nominator for the Equitable Life Insurance Company for ten counties in westei'u Illinois; he is also local surgeon for the Wabash Eaihvay Company and is medical examiner for the Royal Arcanum. He was president of the board of pensions surgeons in Quiney for a number of years and is identified with several societies, having for their ob.ject the dissemination of knowledge that will increase the efficiency of the medical fraternity. He is president for the second time of the Adams County Medical Society, is a member of the American ]\Iedical Association, the American Public Health Association, the State Medical Society and other organizations of a similar cliaraeter.

Dr. Nickerson was married September 15, 1S80, to Miss Jessie S. Roeschlaub, a daughter of Dr. M. J. Roeschlaiib. The son. H. L. Roeschlaub Nickerson, is now a student in Yale University. jMrs. Nickerson 's father was a graduate of Mi:nieh, Bavaria, and his father was dean of that world "s famous institution and private counselor to the king.

Dr. and Sirs. Nickerson are prominent socially although the demands of an ever-increasing practice leave the doctor little time for social duties. Fraternally he is a Mason, having taken the Knight Templar degree in the El Aksa commandery. No. 55. As a physician he is skillful and painstaking with the strictest regard for a high standard of medical ethics. His usefulness in the practice of medicine has continually increased, for he has kept in constant touch with the progress of his profession.

George F. Pfanschmidt, one of the leading and representative farmers of Ellington township, living on section 35, was born upon that place, November 12. 1854, and is of German descent. His father. Herman C. Pfanschmidt, was born in ]\Iuhlhausen. Prussia. March 8, 1825, his aneestoi-s being among the most prominent and influential people of that country and in touch with the king of Prussia in their day. He had a cousin who was an artist of renown, many of his paintings adorning the walls of the king's chapel at Berlin. His work was all of a religious character.

Our subieefs grandfather. Gotfried Sebastian Pfanschmidt, was a soldier in the Napoleonic wars and fought under General Blucher in a number of battles. In the fall of 1835 he came to America, accompanied by his wife and six children. They landed at Baltimore, Maryland, and cros.sed the Allegheny mountains in a wagon, but on arriving in Pittsburg they were compelled to remain in that city for thirteen weeks until the Ohio river opened in the spring. They then proceeded to St. Louis, where the children remained while the parents sought a favorable location. Mi'S. Pfanschmidt being vei'y much taken with Quiney. they decided to settle here and sent for the children. They first occupied an old frame house on the bluff west of Third street. That winter was a very severe one and the snow was very deep and the family would have frozen had they not brought considerable clothing with them. The following spring they located seven miles cast of the city on Mill creek in Ellington township, where Gotfried S. Pfanschmidt entered one hundred and sixty acres of land from the government. Not a furrow had been turned nor an improvement made upon the place but he at once began to clear his land and cultivate his fields, breaking it first with oxen. In the course of time he developed a good farm and thus assisted materially in the work of reclaiming this once wild district for tlie purposes of civilization.

Herman C. Pfanschmidt, the father of our subject, was reared amid the surroundings of frontier life and as his age and strength increased he assisted largely in the work of developing the home farm, where he continued to reside imtil his retirment from active life in 1884, when he removed to Quiney. He was married December 10, 1847, to Miss Chai'lotte Meise, who was born in Gei'many, ]\Iarch 19, 1826, and came to America with her parents, who were early farming people of Adams county. TJnto Mr. and Mrs. Herman C. Pfanschmidt were bom seven children: Edward, who is now a merchant of Chicago : William, who is living on the home farm with his brother George ; Pauline, the wife of J. Louis Pfau (if Chicago; Geoi-ge F., of this review ; Laura : ilrs. William Hirth, of Quiney: and Otelia. who died at the age of two years. The father died in Quiney on the 18th of April, 1899, and the mother's death occurred in Chicago., October 21, 1898. They celebrated their golden wedding in 1897.

George F. Pfanschmidt attended the eountrj! schools and later continued his education in the Gem City Business College of Quiney. He worked with his father in his boyhood days, continuing upon the old homestead until his mai-riage, in 1884, the lady of his choice being Miss Mary Altenhein, who was born in Ellington township and is a daughter of Frederic Altenhein, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this volume. Her parents also celebrated their golden wedding. I\Tr. and Jlrs. Pfanschmidt

After his marriage George P. Pfansehmidt took up his abode upon the home fann and is to-day the owner of one hundred and ninety acres of valuable land, and no richer land can be found in all the country than in Illinois. His farm is pleasantly situated about seven miles east of Quincy and he has one hundred acres planted to grain, while the remainder of the farm is pasture oi- timber land. He raises some stock and annually harvests good ci-ops. His home is a two-stoi-\' lirick residence which was erected in 1862. There are good barns and outbiiildings upon the jilaee for the shelter of grain and stock and in fact the farm is supplied with all modern equipments, while jMr. Pfansehmidt is' regarded as one of the most progressive and energetic agriculturists and one M'ho is thoroiighly reliable in all his business transactions. His political support is tiiven the republican party, and he is a iiieiiibci- of the T.uthcran church.

Sidney

Sidney P. Landcraft, i)roiiiiuently connected with one of the leading productive industries of Quincy, was born in Hannibal, Missouri, December 27, 1848. He is a son of William S. and Letitia P. (Iloneyman) Landcraft. His ancestors in the paternal line wei-e eai-ly settlers of Pennsylvania. His father i-i'inoved from Pennsylvania to Virginia, locating at Kock's Ferry near Richmond, about 1815. His brother, Grandison Landcraft, accompanied him and there became ])ostmaster, which office he filled for forty-tive yeai-s. During all the excitement of the Civil war. -when party feeling and pi'ejudiee ran very hi^h. he remained a stanch rnion man. He died at tinextreme old age of ninety-one years. Besides six brothers there were thi-ee sisters, Polly, Rebecca and Susan.

In 1837 William S. jjaiulci-aft removed to Hannibal, Missouri, and was one of the founders of that town, aidinn' in laying mit the town site and building the courthouse and proiiidlini;' substantial improvemiMit and progress along other lines. He engaged in the tanning business and also conducted a uroecry store for fifteen years, but in 1849 he disposed of his business interests there and started for California in the hope of rapidly acipiiring wealth. He was quite successful in his search for the prcciDiis metal on the Pacific coast and in ls.")li lie starird to return home with a goodly sum of iiidiicy. .Meeting some friends, however, he was induced tn turn back and again engaged in the search foi' t;old, but that vear he beeami' ill anil died, his remains being interred at Oakland. Califdi-nia. He was then fifty-six years of age. His wife died in 1874 at the age of fifty-three years. She was a representative of an old English family, the ancestry being traced back to Lord Lovell. Mr. and 'Sirs. Landcraft were the parents of six children, of whom three are living: Henry H. : j\Irs. ]Mary E. Wait, of New York city: and Sidney P. Of those deceased William S. served for three years in the Civil war and was killed at the battle of ]\Iissionary Ridge. He belonged to the Tenth ^Missouri Regiment. Nathanii'l S. died at the age of twelve years, and Ai-ametta t]m\ at the age of fifteen years.

Sidney P. Landcraft received fair educational privileges. He attended a ])rivate night school, working during each day and for some time pursued his studies in that manner in Cincinnati prior to the time he attained his majority. He was a little lad of eight years when he secured a ]>nsition in a tobacco factory as stripper and there as his ability increased and he demonstrated his faithfulness and close application and untii-ing effort he was promoted imtil he became roller. In 1863 he was train boy on the Hannibal & St. Joseph Railroad and in 1866 became bi*akenran on the same road, acting in that capacity for two and a half years. He then became conductor on a freiLihl Ir.iiii. acting in that capacity for five yeai-s, iia\ ini; charge of specials and pay cars and alsii iiiakiiiL;- duI time cai'ds and doing other clerical work ill the office. In 1873 he was promoted to passenger conductor on the same line, which position he filled with the exception of a period of nineteen months spent in the hardwai-e business until December, 1899, when he resigned ^\'ith the idea of retiring from business life. He won fame in the services of the railroad, because of liis piiinstakinu' methods, capability and earnest (lc\cition to the interests of the rosds. He can 1(1 day ])rocure a duplicate of each report made during his employment as conductor, giving a report of the people handled on the trains and other business in connection therewith, together with the number of cars. During this time he traveled an aggregate of about four million miles.

Soon aL'ti-r resigning his ]iosition with the raili-iiad c<iiiip,-iny Mr. Landcraft was induced to represent the Sheridan Stove Company, of Quincy, ;is ti'aveling salesman, and was thus connected with the house for eighteen months. The managers of the business thus gave substantial evidence of their appreciation of his ability by electing him to the office of secretary in June, 1902, and in this capacity he has since had the management of the plant on Payson avenue. Under his control the business has been established on a more .successful basis, the output of the plant has been increased and the business has become a jn'ofitable one. All this is due to the keen clis- (/ernment, foresight and executive ability of the ju-esident, H. P. Walton, and of Jlr. Landcraft, who together have largely promoted the interests of the house and have won the appreciation and c-omnieudation of the stockholders. The plant has been improved in its equipment and its manufacturing capacity has been enlai'ged to include steel ranges, also the largest nickel plant in Quincy. There is likewise a private electric plant connected with the enterprise, which is now one of the leading productive indu.stries of the city, with a large output and constantly increasing trade.

On the 22d of November. IST-t. Jlr. Landcraft was married to Miss Marian E. Ehvood, of St. Louis, ilissouri, a daughter of Archibald and ]\Iarian (Wliitelaw) Ehvood, both of whom are natives of Scotland. Her maternal grandmother was present at the coronation of Queen Victoria. TTnto Mr. and Mrs. Landcraft have been born four children, but two sons died in infancy. The others are Ada E., the wife of Richard R. Mooi'e, of Quincy; and Sidney H.

3Ir. Landcraft has been a member of the Masonic fraternit.y since 1884 and is still affiliated with the lodge at IMonroe City, in w-hich he was initiated. He belongs to the Kau Valley Division No. 55, of Railroad Conductors of Kansas City. There are many notable elements in his career. His youth was spent amid unfavoring circumstances and dependent upon his own resources from an early age of eight years he has guided his course and shaped his destiny so that he has passed through the ranks of mediocrity and stands among those whose labors are crowned by successful aecomplislmient. Diligence and unfaltering purpose have, perhaps, been his mo.st salient characteristics combined with an unfaltering devotion to duty and unquestioned tidelity to every trust reposed in him and he is to-day prominent auKing the representative business men of Qiiiucy.

Christopher S. Curry, who since 1896 has lived a retired life in Clayton, was born November 9, 1836, in Jetferson county, Kentucky, and was a son of Thomas and ]\Ielinda (Murphy) Curry. His paternal grandfather, Daniel Curry, was a resident of Pennsylvania, whence he removed to Kentucky. Thomas Curry was born in the latter state, March 2, 1802, and his wife's birth occurred November 6, 1807. In 1837 they removed to Adams county, w-here they spent their remaining days, being residents of Clayton township.

Christopher S. Curry was only about a year old when he was brought by his parents to Illinois. He pursued his education in the piiblic schools and was reared to farm life. On the 26th of ]\Iay, 1859. he married Elizabeth Bennett, who was born in Adams county, October 24, 1837. They became the parents of ten children : Charles T., born February 20, 1860, was married to Angie Garrett and lives in Clayton. They have two sous: Fred T., who was born October 11, 1884, and was educated in the Clayton high .-school : and Robert Garrett, born July 18, 1891 ; Benjamin A., born July 25, 1861, is now engaged in the livery biisiness iu Clayton, married Ellen Jlorley and has one child. William B., who was born Pebi'uaiy 20, 1863, and lives in j\Ionmouth, married Alma Ausmus and since her death has married Gertie Deterlie; Luella, boi-n June 14, 1864, is the widow of Henry Campbell, of Clayton, and has six children ; James S., born July 30, 1865, married Ola Vandervooi-t and lives in Clayton township. Laura, born November 10, 1867, is the wife of Stewart Shank, a resident of Missouri. Lorin, born September 14, 1869, died January 15, 1891. Effie, born August 6, 1871, is at home. Bertie, born April 11, 1873, became the wife of Elmer Watson, and died January 31, 1901 ; and Otha H., who was born October 19, 1875, mai-ried Lula Vandervoort and lives in Galesburg. In 1896 Mr. Curry was called upon to mourn the loss of his first wife, who died on the 3d of October of that year.