Rock Grove Township

Rock Grove Township

occupies the northeast corner of the county, contains upward of 16,950 acres of improved land, which, with regard to its quality and agricultural resources, is not surpassed by that of any township in the county. An abundant supply of valuable timber is to be found scattered over the township, notably at Rock, Walnut and Linn Groves, suitable for building and other mechanical purposes, and the water facilities are equally desirable. There are no large streams, but a multitude of excellent springs, which form the head-waters of Rock Run and Cedar Creek, and, with their branches, are distributed quite generally throughout the township.

The farms, which are usually large, are under a high state of cultivation, and cultivators harvest generous returns for the care and labor bestowed to develop and enrich them. Corn, wheat, oats, rye, and the fruits peculiar to this section, are grown in abundance, while hogs, sheep and cattle are raised in large numbers. The schools and ch arches afford means of temporal and spiritual education, and its only village of " Rock Grove " is inferior to none in the county as a place of retreat from the cares of business, or residence where happiness and comfort must be prime factors in man's daily life.

As near as can be ascertained, no permanent settlement was made in the township earlier than 1835, though prospectors and transients came previous, but tarried only long enough to rest and recuperate, when they, as a rule, pushed on to more distant points.

About the summer of 1835, Albert Albertson, accompanied by Jonathan Corey, made their way into the county from the East, and, having pursued their journey as far as the Grove, pitched their tent and decided to remain. Each entered claims in Section 36, and made some improvements during the summer, which were used by Eli Frankeberger upon the latter's reaching their site. He came with his family from Champaign Co., Ohio, and settled in the present town of Rock Grove during December of the same year. Hardly had he located before his wife was confined of a daughter, who was christened "Louisa Frankeberger," and is remembered as the first birth in the township.

The winter of 1836 was one of hardship and trial to the new-comers, who persevered, however, and have left the result of their labors to keep their memory green forever and ever. Josiah Blackamore is reported to have come in the same year.

In 1836, there were few, if any, who selected Rock Grove as an abidingplace, but in 1837 they came more numerously and with beneficial results, as the sequel proved, to the county. Among these were Joseph Musser, settling in Sections 19 and 20, Thomas and Samuel Chambers, William Wallace, etc. Samuel Chambers settled in Sections 19 and 24, while Thomas built his home in Sections 25 and 26, Mr. Wallace in Section 36 ; a Mr. Moon entered a claim on the east side of the Grove the same year, in Sections 31 and 32, as also did Joseph Osborn ; he opened a farm in Section 35 and entered a claim to timber lands, located in Section 30. Samuel and Daniel Guyer " squatted " in Section 31, where the village of Rock Grove now is ; in fact the original plat of the village included " Guyer's Addition."

The first marriage is said to have occurred during the winter of 1836-37, though this question is in dispute. Josiah Blackamore is reported as having been one of the " noble army of volunteers," who aided in expediting the departure of the Indians when the removal of these residents was decided upon by the Government. While en route to the frontier, so goes the story, Blackamore became smitten with the charms of Miss Wallace. When the cruel war ended, he returned to Rock Grove and, settling, plied his suit so successfully that the young lady, unable to resist his entreaties, accepted the overture made, and they ere accordingly married at the time quoted, which allegation, however, is without foundation in fact. Miss Wallace and Mr. Blackamore were married in Green County, Wis., at the time stated.

Albert Albertson and Lavina Albertson have friends who contend that their claims for the disputed honor are entitled to precedence. They were united along in 1838 by Eli Frankeberger, who in that year was laden with the dignity attaching to the office of County Justice, in addition to the other obligations imposed by citizenship. On April 19, 1839, Elyah Clark and Harriet Hodgson were united at Walnut Grove by Squire Kinney.

In the fall of 1839, Solomon and Jacob Fisher came in from the East and made claim to 600 acres of ground in Sections 25 and 26, which they divided between them. The claim had been previously entered, it is believed, by a miner named Drummond, who had erected a cabin 16x16 and made a well. The claim with the improvements, however, came into the possession of the Fisher boys, by purchase, it is said. During the season of 1839-40, the emigration to Rock Grove had been comparatively generous, including, among others who came, Peter D. George and John Fisher, Calvin Preston, J. S. Potter, John Kleckner and others, all settling at the Grove, and remaining in that vicinity about a year, when they "scattered," some going to the northern tier of sections, others to the western tier, and others tq, the immediate vicinity of their first halting-place. In the spring of 1840, John and Reuben Bolender, father and son, established themselves east of the village, and George and Jacob Maurer in the Grove in Sections 29 and 30 ; a settler named, it is thought, Joseph Barber, also came in about the same time. Opposite the Grove was a vast prairie, with the timber in the western horizon, presenting a picture of rare beauty. Through that year constant additions were made to the population, including Levi, Adam and Michael Bolender ; the latter removing to Oneco in

1842, Solomon Fisher erected a cabin at the head of Cedar Creek, which has since been changed for the commodious home now occupied by that gentleman.

During the summer of 1842 or 1843, William Wallace hung himself to a tree on the edge of the Grove in Section 36, a half-mile northeast of Jacob Sullivan's present house. He, too, was the victim of insanity, and the old setters say his was the first death announced in the township. He was buried in the vicinity where his tragic death occurred.

At the date mentioned, the inhabitants, who previously depended upon Galena and other points for supplies, had them at home ; indeed, subsequent to 1839, no difficulty was experienced in obtaining meat, flour or meal. The Grove was alive with hogs, and the Curtis Mills, at Orangeville, Van Valzah Mills, at Cedarville, and mills on Rock Run were easily accessible and equal to every demand.

Some time in 1843, the farm of a settler named Daniel Noble, located near Walnut Grove, was the scene of a mysterious tragedy, wherein a man well known under the name of Boardman, employed in a subordinate capacity by Noble, was shot to death ; but the causes which led thereto, as also the assassin, are as much involved in mystery to-day as they were forty years ago.

In 1844, Government lands in the township were offered at public sale, and sold for $1.25 per acre in gold, the failure of the United States Bank estopping the Government from receiving any medium but gold and silver in exchange. It was apprehended at the time that trouble would arise between "squatters" and the purchasers, at the sale, growing out of a refusal of the former to perfect the latter's title by transfer of the property purchased, but claimed by right of pre-emption. Happily, this was entirely avoided, and, while similar causes elsewhere produced the results anticipated in other localities, Rock Grove was spared the afiliction.

In 1846, a school was begun in the township, in Section 36, and thereafter the cause of education and other attendant circumstances of comfort and prosperity were portions allotted the township in the lottery of the future. In 1850, the township was set apart, and becoming, as above written, one of the favored townships in point of fertility, productiveness and natural resources, has in the past twenty-four years fully realized unto the inhabitants gathered within its limits, the fullest fruition of promises held out to them nearly half a century ago, as inducements to remain.

Rock Grove Village

is located in Section 31, a place of quiet, unpretentious beauty, one of the lovely villages of the plain, containing upward of a hundred inhabitants and every feature that would contribute in any degree to satisfy modest ambition.

C. W. Cummings originally owned the land upon which the village is located, which he sold to Peter D. Fisher in early days. Fisher also owned the east half of the southwest quarter of Section 31, 9, 29, and Samuel Guyer the west half of the same quarter and section. Guyer laid off the village about 1850, but in July, 1855, Benjamin Dornblazer re-surveyed and replatted what was then known as Guyer's Addition, about the center of the town.

On the 29th of August, 1856, J. D. Schmeltzer set apart nine acres in the west half of the southwest quarter of Section 31, 9, 29, caused it to be surveyed and set apart in lots for village purposes, under the name of Schmeltzer's Addition.

It should be stated that in the winter of 1852, the addition of Peter G. Fisher was sold to Solomon Hoy, and abandoned for village purposes, but on April 22, 1869, Samuel H. Fisher laid off four acres south of Schmeltzer's Addition, for village lots, in use for that purpose.

The village is not thicky settled, each resident having breathing and living room sufficient, without encroaching upon his neighbor's comforts or privileges. It is supplied with a handsome church edifice, schoolhouse, etc., and will always afford a grateful i^est to the permanent or transient visitor.

Evangelical Church. - Previous to 1878, the members of this society held services in the Lutheran Church, near the village, put up in 1856. In 1878, the increase in membership induced the congregation to build a church of their own, which was completed the same year, under the direction of a building committee, consisting of George Meyers, Jere Swartz, Jacob Sullivan, William Alexander and A. Bolender, at a total cost of ^2,300, raised by subscription in the township. The church was formally dedicated on the 27th of November, 1878, and has been constantly occupied since.

At present, services are held in English on alternate Sundays, under the pastorship of the Rev. W. W. Shuler, and in German, alternate Sundays, the Rev. J. Shafle, officiating.

The German Reformed and Lutheran congregations own a church about one mile from the village, in which services are held occasionally, under the auspices of either sect, circuit riders attending to the pastoral duties.

Schools. - Institutions of learning, of course of the most primitive character, were first rendered available about 1841, when Paul Chandler, or some other equally venturesome pedagogue, wielded the birch and educated the callow idea into a complete familiarity with the rudiments of learning.

To-day the school system that is in force throughout the county, is regarded as equal to the requirements. In the township, there are schools at every cross-road, and one of more than ordinary importance at Rock grove Village. Here, the attendance averages seventy-five daily, during the winter term, and $600 per annum are expended in its support.

located in the western tier of townships, is one of the largest and proportionlately wealthy sections into which the county is divided. The soil is productive, and comprehends 70 per cent of the territory, the balance being grown up with timber. It contains upward of thirty, thousand acres, is watered by Rock Run, furnishing abundant power for mill, and other mechanical undertakings, and is divided in the center from east to west by the Milwaukee & St. Paul Railway, which has been largely instrumental in developing the township's resources, appreciating the value of property and contributing to her population.

The first settlement of a permanent character made in the township is said to have been effected by a Mrs. Swanson, who came to the country with her family and entered upon the possession of a farm in Section 10 or 11. She was a widow, but was aided in the care of her property by a family of children, who accompanied their parent to Illinois.

Settlers had made their appearance prior to the advent of " Widow Swanson," including S. E. M. Carnefix, i^.lexander McKinn, Arthur Dawson, and one or two others, but these had remained temporarily in transit to the mines, and it was not until the "widow" became a fixture that they returned to stay. To these pioneers, with Thomas Flynn, E. Mullarkey, Henry Hulse and M. Welsh, William and Leonard Lee, Nathan Blackamore and Aaron Baker, is due the honor of first breaking ground in the township, but they had hardly been located when the precedent they established was emulated, and in the year following arrivals were more numerous. Among these were Nathan Salsbury, who settled in Section 31, and with him Dr. F. S. Payne, D. W. C. Mallory, John Hoag, S. and T. Seeley, who settled near Rock City, Peter Rowe, etc.

TheMullarkeys, with Thomas Foley and one or two others, who came during the previous year, opened farms about two miles south of the present town of Davis, where they established a settlement, that has long been known as " Irish Grove," from the large number of Celts who followed in the wake of those who came in 1836. The following year, Pat Giblin, Miles O'Brien, a man named Corcoran, who subsequently removed to Rockford, were included in the roster of inhabitants gathered at Irish Grove. The same year, Thomas J. Turner put up a grist-mill in Section 34, but sold it to Nelson Salsbury, who in turn disposed of it to James Epley. The first birth in the township is alleged to have occurred this year, it being a son to Albert Flower, at the saw-mill on Rock Run.

During 1838, H. G. Davis, with his family, came to the township, and purchased the saw-mill put up in Section 27 by Stackhouse, Carrier & Flower. Mr. Davis paid |4,000 therefor and completed the dam that summer. The only Catholic Church in the township was built this season, by Thomas Flynn, E. Mullarkey, M. Welsh and a priest believed to have been Father Piltitot, who walked from Galena to disseminate the Gospel among the settlers, and assisted in raising the frame hewed out by Calvin Cloton, alias Amos Isbel. This old church had but two pews for many years, and was kept in service until 1862, when the present edifice was completed. "Pony" Fletcher and Narcisse Swanson were married in the fall of 1838, it is said, and claimed to be the first marriage in the township.

In 1839, numerous accessions were made, and improvements kept pace ^ith the influx of inhabitants. Among those who settled in Rock Run Town- during 1839, were Conrad Epley, Edward Pratt, who subsequently removed to Freeport. M. Flower, Edward Smith, settling on Section 13 ; Uriah Boyden, on Section 30 ; Thomas Fox, who removed to Wisconsin ; Thomas Bree, Martin Mullen, Patrick Flynn, Michael Flynn, Patrick Flynn (second), Thomas Hawley and William Marlowe, who identified themselves with the settlement at Irish Grove, and some others whose names cannot be recalled.

In the early part of that year, Josiah Blackamore and Leonard Lee built the present Epleyana mills, which then had but one run of stone, and were afterward -sold to Conrad Epley. A party of Norwegians settled at the mill on Rock Run in October, 1839, being the first settlement made by this nationality in the United States. The delegation included C. Stabeck, Ole Anderson, Canute Canuteson, who opened the first blacksmith-shop in the township; Civert Oleson and Ole Civertson, the latter opening the first wagon-shop in the vicinity. There was much to encourage the settlers this year, and the country began to bear the appearance of being highly cultivated. But times were hard. Those who had removed from comparative plenty to the West and were compelled to toil with indefatigable energy to triumph over the embargoes which constantly intervened between them and comfort. Game was to be had in abundance, but pork and other luxuries were only to be procured from a distance, and at a price ($43 to $50 per barrel) that denied it to the most independent. Snakes, too, were numerous beyond comparison, and fatal as the plague, and many an old settler recalls the times when he was obliged to pirouette in a lively manner, or drop a sheaf of oats, to avoid being bitten by the venomous massasauga. Yet, in spite of these objections, life in the wilderness was not without its charm, and, whatever complaints found expression, did not deter immigration from the East and across the sea, and though clouds shone over the pathway of these venturesome pioneers, there were glimpses of sunshine to relieve the passing gloom and encourage the coming of that perfect day which long since made its welcome advent.

In 1840, D. A. Baldwin settled in Section 30, and Capt. Knese in Section 13 the year following. Additions were made that year to the Irish and Norwegian settlements, and every nationality represented in the new field of labor and development had their number increased by fresh arrivals. In 1841. the first regular post office in the township was established at the Rock Run Mill, -and H. G. Davis appointed Postmaster. It remained here until 1848, when it was removed to Jamestown - otherwise known as "Grab-all" - near Rock City, Tvhere it was retained for a number of years, but finally abandoned when Rock City and Davis were laid out and dignified with the privileges appertaining to towns and villages. A son of John R. Webb died in the fall of this year, the first, it is claimed, in the township.

From 1840 to 1850, the township developed with gratifying rapidity, con- -sequent upon the increase in population and cultivation of the soil.

In 1855, the first Presbyterian Church in the township was built, and sery- were conducted by the Rev. Joseph Dickey. In 1857, Davis was laid out, and two years later, the Western Union road was completed through the township. During the war. Rock Run contributed her quota to the Union army, and with the dawn of peace her citizens once more took up the "burden of life" with renewed spirit, have borne the burden imposed, with dignity and and the homes of comfort that greet the gaze whithersoever the eye may be turned in tramping the township highways are the results.

The most pretentious and populous village in Rock Run Township, though of comparatively recent birth, has, since that event grown with each succeeding year, and waxed in strength with age, experience and observation. The town is pleasantly located on the Milwaukee & St. Paul Railway, in the northeastern section of the township, and is as bustling, busy and prosperous a community as can be found in the State. It is already celebrated for the industry and enterprise of its inhabitants, as a shipping-point for the large crops raised in the vicinity; also for the publication of the Davis Review, which has been sustained seven years by the patronage it has commanded from the citizens, and many other features of excellence, reserved for mention in their appropriate places.

During the year 1857, at a time when the completion of the Western Union road was a conclusion irresistible, the necessity for a station on that thoroughfare, at a point in the township convenient and accessible to travelers and shippers, was apparent to even those who had taxed their incredulity with regard to the enterprise in progress. Ic was at a period when great financial embarrassments were beginning to crowd the commercial and speculating spirits of the country, and men hesitated before entering upon new ventures, as much by reason of their apprehension regarding results, as of a lack of resources. Nevertheless, it was decided to lay out the town, and in the year mentioned, Samuel Davis, John A. Davis, T. J. Turner and Ludwig Stanton donated a total of 160 acres, for the purpose of a "new dispensation," and caused the same to be surveyed and platted, a task accomplished by Edward McMahon, and christened the result of their labors, "Davis." The first survey was completed with twenty blocks laid off, but in March following (1858) the survey was concluded and the plat promulgated. In 1858, the railroad was finished to Davis, and in September, 1859, the first passenger train was run through the town to Freeport, on the occasion of the State fair, which was holden in that year at the latter city.

When the village was first conceived in the minds of those who were instrumental in its production and subsequent growth and development, its present site was a territory embracing cultivated farms, occupied severally by D. A. Baldwin and others who resided on the premises, and whose respective homes made up the complement of improvements to be observed at that time. Immediately on the completion of arrangements to lay out a village, these farm appurtenances were removed, and the farms themselves divided and subdivided into squares and lots, with streets of generous dimensions, and named for the old settlers throughout the township, such as Stanton, Turner, Carnefix, Blackamore, Lee, etc. But lots sold slowly. The panic of 1857, and effects incident thereto, prevented ready sale of property, and disappointment was substituted for the feelings of encouragement the founding of the village produced. A few were sold, however, as the years progressed, at prices ranging from $40 to $125, and improvements were projected and carried on in spite of the hard times and unpromising outlook. Houses were built, streets rendered passable, sidewalks laid, trees planted, and other efforts made which added to the attractions of the place.

In 1858, Samuel J. Davis erected the first store in the village. It was located at the corner of Stanton and Salsbury streets, and still stands on the spot of its origin. In the summer of 1859, the Evangelical Church was put up and was quickly followed by the erection of other church edifices. The stone schoolhouse was completed in 1858, and the first brick house in the growing town was made ready for occupation in 1866. Ernest Wendt was the enterprising citizen who made the investment. It is now occupied by John Butler.

From 1857 to 1863, there were but comparatively few additions to the population. After that period of comparative inaction had passed, there was a marked improvement in the quota of arrivals, and steady growth was visible. In the latter year, the frame addition to the schoolhouse was finished, and, during the decade ending with 1869, residences, stores and other marks of progress were increased and sustained by the inhabitants.

On Thursday, May 1, 1873, an election was held to determine the question of incorporating the town under the provisions of the general law for the incorporation of villages, adopted April 10, 1872. The polls were located at the Pennsylvania House ; S. J. Davis, Peter McHoes and John Gift acted as Judges, and thirty-three votes were deposited in the affirmative, to thirty-one votes against the proposed organization. A meeting was convened on May 5, following, at which the votes Avere canvassed, with the result cited, and thereafter Davis was published throughout the county with its legal prefix of village.

1880 - Elijah Clark, President ; John Butler, Jacob Orth, and the President were qualified to serve one year ; John Long, M. W. Kurtz and Adam Rhenigans, to serve two years.

Schools. - Previous to the laying out of the town, pupils residing in the section wherein Davis is located, attended school at Epleyana, two miles northwest of the village. In 1858, a separate district was made in the town site, and a stone schoolhouse erected on the hill in the southwest quarter of the town. The building cost $1,200, and supplied the wants of the residents until 1863, By this time, the number of attendance had increased materially, necessitating the building of an addition to the original edifice, which was finished that year. It is of frame, two stories high, 20x30, costing about $2,000, and furnishes abundant accommodations for the present roster of pupils.

The departments consist of first and second primary, grammar and high schools, employing four teachers and affording the means of education to an average daily attendance of 150 pupils.

The schools are under the supervision of a Board of Directors, composed of M. W. Kurtz, President ; Joseph Brinker, Nicholas Heinen and Thomas Cronemiller, and requiring an annual outlay of $1,500 for their maintenance and support.

The Davis Review - The only paper in the township, was established in May, 1873, by K. T. & K. C. Stabeck, when it was known as The Budget, a quarto sheet, published in Freeport also. The Messrs. Stabeck continued in charge of the paper until September, 1878, when they removed to Freeport, abandoning the field in Davis to S. W. Tallman, who purchased the latter office for |600, changed the make-up to a seven-column folio, the politics from Independent to Republican, and substituted Review for Budget. Since the purchase, Mr. Tallman has been conduc ting the enterprise single-handed, and his paper now enjoys a weekly circulation of 350 copies in the townships of Rock Run, Rock Grove and Dakota, of Stephenson County, also in Durand, Pecatonica and other townships, of Winnebago County.

Lutheran Church. - The Lutheran society was organized in 1870, through the labors of the Rev. William Schock, of Forreston, with eighteen members. Joseph Keller was Elder, Levi Ungst, Deacon, and services were held in the Methodist Church.

In the spring of 1872, the congregation decided to erect an edifice for its own benefit and occupation, and an effort was made to raise the funds necessary for that purpose. Through the untiring energy and industry of Joseph Keller, Aaron Gold and others, a fund was collected the same season, and the church on Turner street completed and dedicated. It is of frame, 34x50, handsomely finished, surmounted by a steeple 75 feet high, and cost, when ready for service, a total of $3,100. The auditorium affords a seating capacity for 300 worshipers.

Davis Evangelical Association - Was organized in 1857, with the following members : Thomas Bond and family, Jacob Bond and family, Jacob Weaver, Michael Meinzer, William Kramer and T. Jenuine and families, and Mr. Abbersted. At first services were conducted in private residences and the schoolhouse, continuing in these resorts until 1862, when the present church was completed at an expense of $2,500, being of frame, finished with reference -to convenience and solidity rather than ornament or elaborateness.

The diocese is included in what is known as Davis Circuit, which includes Rock City and other points, having a total of 236 members, 115 of whom are communicants of the church in Davis Village.

The value of the village church property, which embraces a parsonage, is quoted at $3,500, and the following ministers have served since the circuit was established : The Revs. George Fleisher, John Dengel, Jacob Schafie, Samuel Dickover, W. Strasburger, A. Niebul, H. Rohland, William Huelster, Henry Bucks. L. B. Tobias, S. A. Tobias and J. G. Kleinknecht, the present incumbent.

Davis 3Iethodist Episcopal Church - Was organized in June, 1859, under the auspices of the Rev. James McLane, with twelve charter members. Until

With the exception of one year, the church formed a part of the Durand charge, and services were had only Sunday afternoons. In the fall of 1878, however, it became an independent charge, with the Rev. F. W. Nazarene as Pastor. Since then, the church has enjoyed a steady growth, and is quite prosperous. Its membership numbers about eighty, embracing a large proportion of the English-speaking element of the community. During the summer of 1880, extensive repairs were made on the church, which is now one of the neatest and most commodious in the district.

Since its foundation the following Pastors have officiated in charge of the congregation : The Revs. James McLane, C. C. Best, L. Holt, H. N. Reynolds, Thomas Cochran, M. G. Sheldon, Mr. Taylor, L. Campbell, T. L. Hallowell, W. H. Orlap, P. C. Stere, T. H. Hazeltine and the present minister.

Davis Manufacturing Company - Was incorporated in 1876, with a capital stock of $10,000, and the following official board : Lemuel Goodrich, President, and A. J. Morris, Secretary; Lemuel Goodrich, A. J. Morris, Jacob Orth, E. A. Benton, G. W. Becker, A. Inman and M. W. Kurtz, Board of Directors. The objects of the association were the building and conducting a flouring-mill, and in the summer of 1876, the mill on Blackamore street, opposite the Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad track, was completed, supplied with four run of stone, propelled by steam power, and taken possession of by Ball & Green, under a lease executed by the company. The sum of $16,000 was paid for building the mill, being largely in excess of the capital stock, which was secured by a trust deed of the property to the stockholders. This was foreclosed in 1878, and sold to the gentlemen composing the original board of officers and directors, who now own the property. It has been operated at intervals by the company - Aaron Stoll and Gift & Eichelberger, until May, 1880, when it was closed up.

The capacity of the mill is stated at 450 bushels of wheat per day, in addition to a large quantity of ground feed. The organization is still in existence but not active.

Evening Star Lodge, No. 4,14, A., F. ^ A. M. - Was organized under dispensation of the Grand Lodge of Illinois March II, 1864, and received its charter October 5 of the same year, with the following officers : James Zuver, W. M. ; George Osterhaus, S. W. ; Edward R. Lord, J. W. ; Dr. J. R. Hammill, Secretary ; Charles Wright, Treasurer.

The lodge prospered, increasing its roster of membership, the influence exerted by the members and resources of the craft. Recently, the lodge erected a handsome hall on Stanton street, which was completed, furnished and dedicated the same year at an expense of about $3,000.

Davis Lodge, No. 376 I. 0. 0. F. - Was organized on the 19th of September with the following members : Martin H. Davis, Isaac Denner, John Nagle, Thomas Hays, Alvin Gestenberger and J. W. Caldwell. Of these, John Nagle was N. G., Martin H. Davis, V. G., and Thomas Hays, Treasurer.

The present officers are Jacob Swartz, N. G. ; W. S. Caum, V. G. ; Henry Warner, Treasurer; J, M. Caldwell, Secretary; J. W. Caldwell, Warden ; and J. L. Blackamore, Conductor.

The town of Davis now has twelve stores of dealers in dry goods, groceries, drugs, and other commodities ; two blacksmith-shops, in one of which a superior quality of plow is made ; three churches, one paper, one mill, and other evidences of prosperity, together with a population of about seven hundred, to commend it to the patronage and confidence of the world at large.

Rock City

On the 10th of January, 1859, George Raymer executed a contract with T. S. Wilcoxon and William Peterson for the transfer of the southwest corner of the northeast quarter of Section 29, containing 50 acres for town purposes, which was the first move made toward founding Rock City. During the same year, the town was surveyed and platted, 180 lots being laid out, fronting on Jackson, Washington, Main, Congress, Clay, Center and Market streets and Jefi'erson avenue, which commanded prices ranging from $10 to $50 each, when the town began to build up, immediately upon the completion of the railroad. In the fall of 1859, Samuel Hutchison and S. E. M. Carnefix, donated an addition to the south part of the town, which, however, was vacated in 1860, and remained unimproved. David Wilcoxon, John Graham and Perry Duncan were the store-keepers, and the station was located and built during the same year.

The educational facilities, limited to a school on Carnefix farm at an early day, were increased and improved after the town was laid out, and are to-day inferior to none in the county.

Two churches afibrd spiritual pabulum to the citizens, and in this respect Rock City is equally fortunate as other township villages already mentioned. To these advantages is added that of accessibility for shipping purposes to farmers and speculators, being in the center of the township, with good roads from all portions of the surrounding country leading to the depot, and the town is rapidly assuming a prominence and value in this respect, that will result in attracting to its population, enterprise and wealth in the near future.

Its roster of material interest is made up of two stores, two churches, and a schoolhouse, and these, together with the fact that the town is but a short distance removed from Freeport, induce the conclusion that at some day, not far distant, it may be made the resident portion of that thriving city.

Schools. - As already stated, a school was maintained previous to the laying out of the city on the Carnefix farm ; subsequent to that event a stone schoolhouse was put up west of the village and taught by a master of the art named Searles.

This edifice answered public expectation and demands until the present quarters were erected in 1878, when they were substituted, and promise to supply the needs for which they were built until Rock City shall become a city in fact as also in name.

Evangelical Church of Mock City - Was organized in 1868, with a limited membership, which has been measurably increased during the past ten years.

In 1869, the present church edifice was commenced, completed and dedicated under the pastorship of the Rev. II. Rohland. It cost $2,200, is in a

JACOB ASHENFEIiTER, farmer, Sec. 33 ; P. 0. Rock Grove ; born in York Co., Penn., October, 1808, where he learned millwrighting ; he worked in Center, Mifflin, Somerset and Huntingdon Counties ; moved West in the fall of 1847, and bought his farm in 1848, of William Wilson, containing 150 acres, valued at $50 per acre. In 1837, was married to Miss Rebecca H. Miles, of Pennsylvania; their family were Cyrus, who served in the 46th I. V. I., deceased ; Susan, married to P. Dinges, deceased ; Franklin, deceased, died from disease contracted in the army ; belonged to the 46th f. V. I.; Mary Jane and Homer, at home ; there were also two infants, deceased. Mr. Ashenfelter has held school and township ofl&ces ; in politics, a Democrat ; his family attends the Reform Church, at Walnut Grove.

EDWARD BARKER, farmer, Sec. 34 ; P. 0. Davis ; born in Franklin Co., Vt., Jan. 12, 1807 ; came to Stephenson Co., in 1842, and settled on his present farm, which he entered and now owns; it contains 140 acres. In 1835, was married to Miss Mary Warner, of Vermont ; they have eight children - Mary, now married; Isaac A., Jay W,, Martha, now Mrs. Williams; William H., Charles J., Theodore s'. and Jerusha M. Mr. Barker has been Justice of the Peace, and held school offices ; in politics, a Republican ; he had two sons in the army. Jay W. and Theodore S.

X. J. BARIMORE, farmer, Sec. 27 ; P. O. Orangeville ; born in Greene Co., Penn., Feb. 11, 1828; at the age of 13, removed to Ohio, with his parents, Joseph and Saloma Barimore ; he lived in Ohio eight years, removed to Wisconsin, in 1849 ; from Wisconsin, came to Stephenson Co., 111., in the spring of 1851 ; his parents came here in 1849, and, after two years here, removed to Wisconsin ; they both died there, the father aged about 82 years ; the mother, aged about 67 years. Mr. B.'s farm embraces 280 acres ; 260 in the home farm, and 20 acres of timber land in Wisconsin ; he has held school offices. School Trustee, School Treasurer, etc., most of the time since he has been here ; religion, M. E. Church ; politics, Democrat. He was married in 1851 to Miss Susan Stair, a native of Indiana ; with her parents, Jacob and Elizabeth Stair; came to Wisconsin in the fall of 1837, settling near the Illinois line ; they permanently resided near the place of their first location in Wisconsin ; her mother died about a year after their settlement in Wisconsin, aged 37 years ; her father died in 1864, aged 64 years. Mr. and Mrs. Barimore, have seven children living - Saloma E., Frank Gr., Mary K., Jacob S., Jennie, Bennie and Ruth Anna ; two children deceased, William and Widdie.

HUGH BEIVNEHOFF, farmer. Sec. 26 ; P. 0. Rock Grove ; born in Union Co., Penn., Feb. 5, 1831; he came to Stephenson Co., 111., with his father, Daniel, and the family ; Rachel, who married Mr. Kuns, and is now a widow ; Market, now Mrs. Reese ; William and Daniel ; they stopped in Cedarville, and Hugh went to Rock Grove, learned the harness trade; then he went to Jude, Wis., and worked at brick-making, and his trade; moved to Shannon, where he farmed, in 1864 or 1865 ; settled on the old farm on Sec. 25, where he owns 163 acres, valued at $55 an acre. In 1856, he married Miss Elizabeth Kramer, of Pennsylvania; their family are Mary E., Ida J., John W., Susan ii., Charles F., William C and a twin brother who died while yet an infant. Mr. Bennehoff has been Collector and Road Commissioner on the Republican ticket, and his family attend the Lutheran Church.

SAMUEL CHAMBERS, farmer, Sec. 24 ; P. 0. Rock Grove ; born in West BuflPalo Township, Union Co., Penn., Sept. 23, 1813 ; he came out West, in 1835, in company with his brother Thomas, on horseback, and stopped in Jo Daviess Co., 111. ; in 1836, moved to Rock Grove and bached with his brother, engaged, in the mean while, breaking prairie ; he claimed and entered the farm on which he lives and now owns 190 acres; his brother Robert, who came out after he did, died in 1844, and his heirs now hold the estate, and Benjamin, another brother, came in 1839, and farms on the next section. In 1841, he married Miss Elizabeth Musser, of Union Co., Penn. ; born in 1819, May 10; their children's names are Joseph M., Rebecca E., afterward Mrs. Hessman, now dead ; Robert T., Mary, afterward Mrs. McCalla, now dead ; John J., Anna E., now Mrs. Brenizer ; Benjamin F. and Nancy L. Mr. Chambers has held the office of School Trustee for fifteen years. Supervisor eight years, and has been Assessor on the Democratic ticket. He belongs to the M. E. Church, at Jefi"erson,Wis.

H. CJLEVEWSTINE, merchant, Rock Grove; born Oct. 16, 1821, in Union Co., Penn., and was raised in Center Co. ; lived in Pennsylvania till the spring of 1857, when he came to Stephenson Co., 111. ; after a few months here, he took a trip through Iowa, and, in the fall of 1858, went to Wisconsin, where he lived for ten years ; returned to Stephenson Co. in the fall of 1868, and has since resided in this county ; was in mercantile business for some years before coming here in 1868, and for all of the time since that date ; has been Postmaster of Rock Grove since the spring of 1873 or 1874, and has been School Trustee two or three terms; politics, Democratic. He was married, in October, 1869, to Miss Lettice Williams, a native of Pennsylvania ; their children living are Hiram Albert, Cyrus Sterling and Emmert Christian ; one child, John Henry, died April 8, 1880, aged 7 months.

C. J. COOPER, farmer. Sec. 5 ; P. 0. Rock Grove ; born in Bucks Co., Penn., May 26, 1810; twelve years later, his father moved West, coming to Clarke Co., 111., where they remained eleven years ; then bought and settled on a small place in Crawford Co. ; lived eleven years there, removing to Stephenson Co. in 1 844. Mr. Cooper first saw this region before Stephenson Co., was yet embraced in Jo Daviess Co. ; the period referred to was when he was here as a soldier in the Black Hawk war, in 1832 ; in that war he was a soldier in Capt. Royal A. Knott's Company, 1st Regiment, commanded by Col. Blackburn, and of the 2d Brigade, commanded by Gen. Alexander, and saw the most of the war, of which so few soldiers yet survive. His occupation has been chiefly farming, though for a good many winters was engaged in operating saw-mills, etc. ; he has 152 acres of farm land and 30 acres of timber land, all in Rock Grove Township. Held the office of School Director for seventeen years, and for many years also served in various township offices. In religious matters, he was born and bred a Quaker ; in politics, he is Republican. He was married, July 28, 1840, to Miss Margaret A. Thompson, a native of Virginia; she came, at an early day, with her parents, Robert and Susannah Thompson, to Clarke Co., 111., though they lived most of the time afterward in Crawford Co. ; they came there about 1838 or 1839, her grandfather having moved there as early as 1825 ; Mjfs. Cooper died Jan. 31, 1880, aged over 58 years. The children living are Robert T., Barton, Joseph, Margaret, now Mrs. N. E. Emrick ; Susan L. and C J. ; two children deceased - Mary E. (Mrs. Jacob Fisher) and Harlan.

W. li. COOPER, retired. Rock Grove ; born in Delaware, April 11, 1807 ; a year or two later his parents returned to Pennsylvania, having moved from that State to Delaware, and lived in Delaware only about two years ; they lived in Bucks Co., Penn., until about 1823, when they removed to Crawford Co., 111., and lived in Crawford and Clarke Cos. thereafter ; his parents, Amos and Hannah Cooper, both died in Clarke Co., 111. - his father aged 63 years, and his mother, about 60 ; his grandfather, William Cooper, also his grandfather on his mother's side, John Lloyd, both lived and died in Montgomery Co., Penn. The subject of this sketch was married May 10, 1831, in Crawford Co., 111., to Miss Elizabeth Beems ; she was born and raised near Williamsburg, Whitley Co., Ky., on the Cumberland River; she is a daughter of James and Nancy Beems, who were quite early settlers on the Cumberland River, coming there from Virginia, and both died there at the advanced age of over 90 years. Mr. and Mrs. Cooper have had eight children, seven of whom are living ; those living are Ann (now Mrs. Daniel Thompson), Hannah (now Mrs. Valentine Haas), James, Mary (now Mrs. Jonathan Smull), Henry, Eliza (now Mrs. Charies Hennick), and Elizabeth (now Mrs. Franklin Boyd); the third child, George, died at Rock Grove, at the age of 18 years; in 1840, Mr. Cooper removed from Crawford Co. to Will Co., some nine or ten miles from Joliet ; lived there one year; then came West, in 1841, the land not being yet in the market ; entered his land from the Government, so that his farmwork was commenced here with the ground in its original state of uncultivated wildness ; was engaged in farming until the last ten or twelve years, when, being too old for hard farm labor, he sold his farm, and has since lived in the village of Rock Grove ; has a good house and lot, horse and buggy, and, with enough money at interest to yield him a living, is enjoying a quiet old age ; he has done his part well in the afiairs of his com-

CwEORGE A. EHRICK, merchant, Rock Grove; born in Stephenson Co. July 2, 1853; has always lived in the county; has been engaged in farming; afterward moved to Rock Grove, where he worked at painting, etc.; since the fall of 1879, has been engaged in merchandising. Politics, Democratic. He was married, in 1878, to Miss Annie Cooper; she was also born in Stephenson Co.; they have one child - Bert C.

M. Id. EMRICK, proprietor Commercial House. Rock Grove ; born in Stephenson Co., in 1857, and has all his life been a resident of the county; in his boyhood was twelve years employed in the hotel with his father ; was then two years engaged in farming ; after this for two years was employed in painting ; for the past six months has had the mail route from Rock Grove to Rock City ; on the 1st of April, 1880, opened the Commercial House, and, assisted by his worthy wife, who is a model housekeeper, is keeping an excellent hotel, which merits and receives a large share of public patronage. In politics, Mr. E. is Democratic. He was married, Oct., 30, 1879, to Miss Mary E. Bolender, also a native of Stephenson Co., ind a daughter of Adam Bolender, a well-known and highly esteemed citizen, who resides near Rock Grove.

JACOB FISHER, deceased ; the subject of this sketch, an old settler and respected citizen of Rock Grove, was born near the city of Reading, Berks Co., Penn., in the year 1808 ; he was principally raised in Center Co., and lived there until his removal to Stephenson Co.. 111., in October, 1840, nine years after his marriage ; his vocation was farming. He was a member of the Lutheran Church ; in politics, he affiliated with the Democratic party ; served many terms as School Director, and in various other local official positions ; his death occurred in August, 1870. He was married, in 1831, to Miss Mary Moyers, a worthy lady, who was born in Lebanon Co., Penn., in 1807; the children living are John S., Jacob M., Mary and Solomon H.; those deceased are Anna Louisa, Samuel C, Susan M., Hiram W., William Irvin, and one who died in infancy.

JOHN S. FISHER, farmer. Sec. 26 ; P. 0. Rock Grove ; born in Centre Co., Penn., Feb. 1, 1832; came to Stephenson Co., 111., with his parents Jacob and Mary Fisher, in October, 1840 ; has been chiefly engaged in farming, his home-farm comprising 125 acres; is the present Supervisor for his township, and has filled the same position several previous terms ; has also been Road Commissioner, Town Clerk, etc. Politics, Democrat. He was married Aug. 26, 1858, to Miss Sarah Wise, a native of Union Co., Penn. ; they have one child living - Emerson D. ; three children deceased - Newton B^teman, Clayton Hamilton and Samuel S.

SAMUEL H. FISHER, retired, Rock Grove ; born near Millheim, Centre Co., Penn., Jan. 18, 1822 ; was in Stephenson Co. as early as 1843, and was also here temporarily during each of the yearS 1844, 1847 and 1848 ; has been a permanent resident here since the fall of 1852 ; was in mercantile business as a clerk in Pennsylvania previous to his coming here, and in business for himself in Rock Grove up to 1857 ; for some ten years - from 1858 or 1859 - he was in the grain business in Dakota, in company with J. D. Sclimeltzer, the firm name being Fisher & Schmeltzer, and, in company with his partner, put up the warehouse now occupied by the last-named member of that firm ; except managing his farms, etc. , has done no active business since 1868 or 1869. In politics, he is a Democrat. He was married in 1861 to Miss Catharine A. Mingle, also a native of Millheim, Centre Co., Penn. ; their children are John H., Edwin J., Franklin D., and a daughter, Katie, who died at 3 months old. Mr. Fisher's ancestors were from Germany ; on his father's side from Wurtemberg, on his mother's side from Alsace ; they came from Germany to Berks Co., Penn., about 150 or 200 years ago, and he is of the fourth or fifth generation since their coming to America. His parents were Jacob and Susan Fisher, his mother's maiden name being Susan Haberacker ; they first lived near the city of Reading, Berks Co., removing from there to Centre Co. in 1810; his father died March 29, 1829, aged 55 years;. his mother died April 29, 1862, aged 83 years. Mrs. Fisher is a daughter of David and Lydia Mingle, who, with their family, came to Stephenson Co. in the spring of 1853 ; her father died at her house in Rock Grove, June 29, 1872, aged over 77 years ; her mother died at the residence of J. J). Schmeltzer, in December, 1868, aged over 62

SOLOMON FISHER, farmer, Sec. 26; P. 0. Rock '^rove ; born in Centre Co., Penn., July 2-4, 1812; worked on a farm till 17 years of age; then for seven years was employed in the manufacture of pottery ; since that has been engaged in farming enterprises; came to Stephenson Co. in the fall of 1839, bought a claim, returned East, and, in the spring of 18-±0, came back to Stephenson Co. as a permanent resident. He was married in 1843 to Miss Barbara Bolender, a native of tjnion Co. (now Snyder Co.), Penn ; came to Stephenson Co. in 1840 with her parents, John and Catharine Bolender, who settled east of Rock Grove Village ; her father, John Bolender, died Aug. 28, 1868. aged over 72 years ; her mother, Catherine Bolender (maiden name Stees;, died Sept. 12, 1866, aged 66 years. Mr. and Mrs. Fisher's children living are Catherine, now Mrs. John S. Walker ; Henry, Matildah, William, Susan and Barbara ; those deceased are Polly, Mrs. Samuel Askey ; and Samuel, the latter dying in infancy. Mr. F.'s farm embraces 358 acres, all in Rock Grove Township ; he has been always quite intimately and usefully associated with the growth and progress of his township ; was first Town Clerk when the township organization was effected ; was School Treasurer for twenty years, and has held various other local offices. His poUtics. Democratic.

H. O. FRANK-EBERGtER, farmer, wagon manufacturer, etc., Rock Grove ; born in Champaign Co., Ohio, Dec. 24, 1826 ; when he was three years old, his parents removed to McLean Co., 111. ; after four or five years there, moved to Bureau Co., and after residing there a year or two, came to Stephenson Co. in December, 1836 ; his parents, Eli and Caroline Frankeberger, both died in this county. He was married in 1857 to Miss Susan Kramer ; she was born in Pennsylvania ; when quite young, removed with her parents to Erie Co., Ohio, and at a later date to Illinois ; her father, John Kramer, died in Carroll Co. ; her mother, Mary A. Kramer, died in Stephenson Co. Mr. Frankeberger has 316 acres of land in Rock Grove and Dakota Townships, and, besides his farming, stock-raising, etc , has carried on wagon-making and repairing for the last thirty years ; he was Town Clerk four or five years, and for the last twenty-three years has been Justice of the Peace. His politics. Republican. Children Uving - Corilla J., Roush, Nellie, Elmer, William and Oscar G. ; children -deceased - Annie, Clayton, Ai, Charles, Lolo and one who died in infancy.

OLiE O. GA-RDER, farmer, Sec. 2 ; P. 0. Davis; born in Norway, about ninety miles from Christiana, the capital, Sept. 18, 1815 ; while in Norway, he followed peddling; in June, 1842, he came to New York, then to Jefferson Prairie, Rock Co., Wis., and soon after moved to Stephenson Co., and bought a claim of L. Marsh, for 3235; he now owns 275 acres of land; built his house in 1855, his barn 1877, and in 1842 was married to Miss Carrie Qvisle, of Norway ; their family consists of eight children - Ole E., Liddie, now Mrs. Baker ; Betsy, Caroline, Jane, Lewis, Helen, now Mrs. Patterson ; Anna, now Mrs. Gadlset ; an infant, and a child named Anna, now dead. Mr. Garder has held school and township offices ; in politics, a Republican ; the family attend the Lutheran Church.

MRS. HELEN GOODRICH, widow. Sec. 22; P. O. Davis;- born in Onondaga Co., N. Y., Jan. 16, 1825 ; her father, Amos Wright, came to Stephenson Co., 111., in 1840, and settled with his family in Rock Grove. In 1841, she was married to Lemuel Goodrich, who came to the county in 1838, in company with his brother David ; in 1840, he bought his brother's share of the estate, and settled down on the farm Jan. 27, 1841, with his wife ; he died here in 1877, leaving a family of nine children living, and three dead - A. Jerome, Elora M.. Oscar A., Ella A., now Mrs. Potter ; Alice E., now Mrs. Mather; Libbie R., now Mrs. Clark ; Herbert E., George L., James W., Charles and Amos. Mr. Goodrich was well known and uni-

GEORGE HAS8INGER, farmer, Sec. 34 ; P. 0. Oran-eviUe ; born in Snyder Co. (then Union Co.,) Penn., Aug. 23, 1811 ; removed from there to Juniata Co., in 1834; lived in Juniata Co., eighteen years ; came to Stephenson Co , 111., in March, 1855 ; has a good, well-improved farm of 120 acres, in Rock Grove Township, with good residence, barn, etc., and, beside this, has 40 acres timber land in Wisconsin. He has held school and township offices ; politics, Democrat ; is a member of the Lutheran Church, at Orangeville. He was married, first, in 1833, to Miss Barbara Stees, a native of the same neighborhood in Pennsylvania; she died here in 1861. He was married again in 1866, to Mrs. Maria Cahoon (maiden name Grold), a native of Northampton Co., Penn. By the first marriage, there are eight children living - Philip, Jane, Mary, Alice, John, Charles, Emma and William ; four deceased - Matildah, George and two who died in infancy. By the second marriage there are two childr^'u - Ida May and Martin Luther.

SOIjOMON hoy, deceased ; the subject of this sketch, a well-known and worthy citizen of this county, was born in Centre Co., Penn., Nov. 17, 1818 ; removed to Stephenson Co., 111., in the fall of 1849 ; during hia residence in Pennsylvania, he was engaged in mercantile life; after coming here, he farmed for over twenty years ; then engaged again in mercantile business ; retired from this about a year before his death. He was Justice of the Peace for a number of years, and, besides this, held various school and township offices ; in politics, he was a member of the Democratic party ; his death occurred April 10, 1877 ; his estimable widow, Caroline Hoy, maiden name Caroline Zimmerman, was born in Center Co., Penn.; married Feb. 20, 1840 ; the children living are Elizabeth Roxana (now Mrs. A. W. Kaup) ; John Shuman, James Buchanan, Fernando Pierrie and Alferetta J; those deceased are Franklin Sylvester, Thomas Jefi'erson and Catharine Eleanora. The home farm of the family embraces 200 acres of fine and nicely improved land in Rock Grove Township, including the comfortable residence property in the town of Rock Grove.

HARVEY KEIISTER, farmer. Sec. 6 ; P. 0. Rock Grove ; born in Union Co., Penn., July 25, 1825 ; came to Stephenson Co., 111., in the fall of 1848 ; carried on blacksmithing for over twenty years after coming to this county; since about 1868, has been engaged in farming ; resides in the village of Rock Grove, and has a good farm of 160 acres adjoining the town; his land being located in Rock Grove and Dakota Townships. He was married in 1855, to Miss Margaret Wise, also a native of Union Co., Penn. ; they have had six children, three of whom are living - Benjamin H., Margaret and Flora ; three deceased - Sarah J., Willie E. and Mary A. Politics, Republican.

LEVI KEI$$TER, farmer, Sec. 19 ; P. 0. Rock Grove ; born in Union Co., Penn., Dec. 31, 1833 ; came to Stephenson Co. in 1844, with his father Benjamin and family - Silas, Christopher, Jacob, Sarah, now Mrs. Buchanan ; Catherine, who married Mr. Osborn, and after his death married Mr. Cromwell ; Esther, was Mrs. Best, now Mrs. Arnold, and David; they stopped in Green Co., Wis., and then came to Rock Grove, Sec. 33. Levi learned the carpenter's trade, and in 1867 bought this farm of John Sass, contaiuing 151 acres. In 1858, married Miss Mary Jane Runkle, of Pennsylvania, and has a family of five children - Elizabeth C, now Mrs. Carthoman ; Amelia J., John G., Martha L., Anna L., an infant died ; Esther (deceased). Mr. Keister is engaged in apiculture, having 113 colonies. In religion, he belongs to the Reform Church; in politics, he is a Republican.

C. T. KLECKXER, farmer, Sec. 22; P. O. Davis; born in Northampton Co., Penn., Jan. 6, 1819; in the spring of 1829 he moved to Union Co., and in 1840 came to Stephenson Co. ; he then bought a claim of C. V. Kellogg, containing 720 acres, and now owns about the same. In 1849, was married to Miss Mary Gift ; their family were David H., John J. (deceased), Isaac P., Mary E. (deceased), Sarah A., George A., Emma C, Ella J. (deceased), Phares 0., Martin E. Mr. Kleckner has held many positions of honor and trust in the town, and has been School Treasurer for eight years. In politics, a Democrat ; his family attend the Reform Church.

DR. D. H. KLECKNER, physician and surgeon, homoeopathy, Sec. 22 ; P. 0. Davis; born in Union Co., Penn., Feb. 17, 1840; came to Stephenson Co. in 1840 with his father, C. T. Kleckner, and grandfather, till 1863, when he went to farming here, and at the same time studying medicine ; in 1876-77, attended the first course of lectures at Hahnemann College, Chicago, 111., and finished ; received his diploma in 1879 ; returned and established himself on his farm, where he owns 125 acres. In 1862, he married Miss Mary A. Zimmerman, of Pennsylvania, and has a family of six children - Hiram S., Frank E., Lyman C, John H., Cyrus F. and Alice J. In politics, the Doctor is a Democrat, and in religion belongs to the Reform Church.

GEORCi^E A. KL.ECKXER, farmer. Sec. 27 ; P. 0. Davis ; born in Stephenson Co., 111., Au.2. 27, 1849, on the homestead; he worked at home till 1872, when he began for himself Jan. 9, 1872, was married to Miss Clarissa J. Martin, of Green Co., Wis., and moved to his farm of 90 acres, where he now resides ; they have one child ~ Ora Grace. Mr. Kleckner was elected School Trustee this spring, 1880; he has held other offices. In politics, a Democrat.

JOHX H. C. KlilBfE, farmer. Sec. 22 ; P. 0. Orangeville ; born in Union Co., Penn., Dec. 30, 1845 ; his father's family were Susanna (now Mrs. Englehart), Sarah (now Mrs. Young), Maria (deceased) George, Rachel (now Mrs. Hoff), Lewis, David, Eli, Ellen ( now Mrs. Wells ), and the subject of this sketch ; the family lived near Buena Vista at first in 1856, then moved to Sec. 28, in Oneco Township, where his father died in 1871 ; John H. attended school in Madison, Wis., and worked at carpenter's trade ; finally went to farming ; bought this farm of 132 acres of N. J. Barimore in 1872, and on Nov. 1, 1868, he married Miss Sarah A. Stair, of Green Co., Wis., and has three children - David Rollin, born Oct. 27, 1869, in Winona; Anna, Sept. 17, 1874, and George Wesley, born Aug. 19, 1877. Mr. Kline was Assessor in 1875, on the Republican ticket, and his family attends the United Brethren Church ; is an earnest worker in the Sabbath school.

HENRY KLOEPPING, farmer. Sec. 4 ; P. 0. Rock Grove; born in Prussia, Germany, Feb. 28, 1820 ; came to x\merica in 1851 ; stopped in St. Louis, and in 1852 bought a farm of Cooney Otto, in Stephenson Co., 111., of 175 acres. Was married to Mrs. Frederica Otto, a widow, and after her death, which occurred in 1879, married again in the fall, Miss Yetta Digner ; they have three children - Henry, Mena and Mary. Mr. Kloepping has held school offices ; his family attends the Evangelical Church.

JOSEPH KRAHER, veterinary surgeon. Rock Grove ; born in Berks Co., Penn., July 1, 1808; not long after this his father sold out there and moved to Union Co. i^now Snyder Co.), on the banks of the Susquehanna River ; living there and working until he had gained a little money, the subject of this sketch then came to Lycoming Co. ; bought a piece of land there in the timber, and lived there four years ; then sold that and moved to Huntingdon Co. ; bought a small mill property there, and operated it himself; lost his health by over-work, being sometimes in the mill for two weeks with no rest ; on his physician's advice he sold the mill ; then came to his brother's, in Seneca Co., Ohio ; and from there, after a short time, to Illinois ; coming into Stephenson Co., April 16, 1846 ; since which time he has been a resident of this county ; paid S9 an acre for his first land here ; carried on farming in connection with his practice as veterinary surgeon ; has 228 acres of land in Rock Grove Township, besides two lots, a good residence, and 3f acres of pa-ture in the village of Rock Grove ; retired from active farming in October, 1868. and has since done no business except the practice of his profession ; has rented his land, his brother being on one part of it, his nephew on another. He is a member of the Reformed Church, and of the Democratic party ; has quite frequently held township and school offices. He was married, in 1831, to Miss Susan Arnold ; her native place was in Pennsylvania, and near the banks of the Susquehanna.

A. B. McCAULEY, farmer, Sec. 35 ; P. 0. Rock Grove ; born in Union Co., Penn., Feb. 11, 1831 ; when 5 years old, went from there to Ohio, and resided in that State until 1848, when he came to Stephenson Co., 111.; has been engaged in farming for the last seven years ; for twenty-three years before that was employed at blacksmithing, and does some work at that business yet, in connection with farming ; his farm comprises 140 acres of prairie and 30 2 acres of timber land, all in Rock Grove Township; has held school and township offices. Politics, Republican. His mother, Deborah McCauley, died in 1860, aged 65 years; his father, Jacob McCauley, Sr., died in 1871, aged 72 years ; his wife's maiden name was Mary C. Williams ; her parents, John and Sarah Williams, came to Stephenson Co., from Pennsylvania, in 1847, and have resided here since ; they live with, and are cared for by, their son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. McCauley ; Mr. Williams having for years been an invalid, and thus incapacitated for any active work, or even for walking. Mr. and Mrs. McCauley have three children living - John, Laura and Sarah ; three deceased - Willard, Elmer and Jacob.

li. li. MARSH, farmer. Sec. 36 ; P. 0. Davis ; born in Champaign Co., Ohio, Feb. 26, 1818 ; in 1827, moved to McClain Co., 111. ; then came here and located on Sec. 25, Range 9 east, and bought his claim of Mr. White, and entered one section and a quarter-section, making 960 acres. Of the original family there are but three living - E. J. is in Nebraska; Elmira, now Mrs. Miller, a widow, also lives in Nebraska, and the subject of this sketch. In 1851 he married Miss Mary Potter, of Indiana, and they bad a family of seven children - Aaron L. L., born June 20, 1853, now dead since Dec. 10, 1862; Martha Sarepta, born Oct. 17, 1855, died May 8, 1875; Freedom L., born Sept. 27, 1827 ; Edward Hamel, born Jan. 21, 1860 ; Webster A., born May 13, 1862, Arthur L., born April 9, 1865 ; John W., born Jan. 2, 1871, and Sarepta M., daughter of Martha Hartman ; bora April 25k, 1875, and died Sept. 8, 1875. Mr. Marsh's family attends the Lutheran Church. He is a Republican in politics.

MAIJRER, farmer. Sec. 32 ; P. 0. Rock Grove ; born in Union Co., Penn., 1810; came to Stephenson Co., 111., June 6, 1840, and stopped at Barber's house till he had one of his own. In partnership with John Bolender, bought eleven SO's and one 40, which they afterward divided. Mr. Maurer now owns 407 acres, valued at $50 per acre. In 1841, was married to Miss Elizabeth Bolender; they have a family of five children living - Sarah, now Mrs. J. Kennedy ; Moses, Mary, William and George, and four dead - Daniel, Isaac, Harriet, John. Mr. Maurer has held township offices. In politics, a Democrat. His family attend the Presbyterian Church.

FREDERIC POTHAST, farmer, Sec. 4; P. 0. Rock Grove; born in Prussia, Germany, July 16, 1825 ; emigrated to Philadelphia, Penn., in 1852 ; located on Sec. 33, in Stephenson Co. the same year ; but sold out and bought this farm on which he lives, containing 118 acres, valued at ^50 an acre. In 1852, was married to Miss Wilhelmina Schradermeier ; they had a family of six children, all of whom are now dead - Simon, died Nov. 26, 1879 ; Mena, died September, 1875 ; Mary, died January, 1874; Henry, died Jan. 14, 1877; another son, named Henry, died in 1854; Frederick, died 1855. Mr. Pothast's family attends the Evangelical Church.

EDWARD PRATT, farmer. Sec. 28; P. 0. Rock Grove; born in the village of Perry, Wyoming Co., N. Y., April 17, 1818; he worked at blacksmithing in Ohio for an uncle ; went back to New York, and started with Benjamin Chadburn for Michigan, and from there to Chicago, where he engaged in driving a stage ; in 1841 he came to Stephenson Co., and drove for Fink & Walker. In November, 1842, was married to Miss Eva Wright, of New York. He then started, with David Clay, a shop in Freeport; but in 1845 went to work for the Grand Latour Plough Company; his health failing he started on the road ; went to farming in 1857. In March, 1871, bought this farm of J. B. Wymer for $12,000 (241 acres) ; now owns 190. Had a family of six children - Mary J., Marcus (deceased), James (deceased), Elias (deceased), an infant (deceased) ; Charles W., working the farm. Mr. Pratt has held township and school offices. In politics, a Democrat.

CALVIW PRESTON, farmer, Sec. 28 ; P. 0. Davis ; born in Union Co., Penn., Feb. 9, 1817 ; he learned mill-wrighting, and started for the West with his brother Wilson ; came up with Abraham Snyder and William Furst, and then came to Freeport ; he was engaged in the Davis Rock Run Saw-mill, Saulsbury and Nelan Mills ; also on the Wapello Mills, in Jo Daviess Co. He arrived in Stephenson Co. in 1840^ and in 1843 married Miss Catherine Williams, of Pennsylvania, who died in 1873. In 1846, worked on the Cedarville Mills ; in 1847, on the Lurch Mill, and, in 1848, on th& Scioto Mill, but has settled down on his farm on Sec. 28, where he owns 140 acres. He married again, in 1876, to Mrs. McGrew, of Iowa; his children are Elizabeth, L. E., Alice, W. W., Mary M., now Mrs. Martin ; Clara A., Sadie W., deceased ; Lizzie- W., deceased ; Caroline K., Minnie M. and Amanda, deceased. Mr. Preston has held township and school offices ; in politics is a Republican, and belongs to the Christian Church. His mother is now 91 years old, and lives on the farm with him ; his father died in 1828.

L.EWIS farmer, Sec. 3; P. 0. Davis ; born in Lippe Detmold, Germany, Nov. 5, 1821 ; came to America in 1853 ; brought hia family with him and went to farming ; settled down on a farm in Rock Grove Township, containing 150 acres, but owns now 500 acres, valued at $50 an acre. In 1844, he was married to Miss Sophia Pothast, of Germany. Their family is Lewis, Henry, Frederick, Herman, Louisa and AmeHa.^ He has held township office, and belongs to the Evangelical Synod of North America.

li. W. SCHRADERHAEIER, farmer. Sec. 28 ; P. 0. Rock Grove ; born in Germany, March 26, 1846 ; emigrated to America in 1852, and settled in Rock Grove Township, where the subject of this sketch now lives and is engaged in farming -, he now owns 70 acres and is farming 231. In 1868, he married Miss Dora Weimeier, of Germany. They have a family of two children - Anna S. and Daniel L. Hia family attend the Lutheran Evangelical Church.

W. B. STIVER, physician and surgeon. Rock Grove Village ; he was born in Centre Co., Penn., March 12, 1850, and left for the West in 1872 ; went to Freeport and began the study of medicine ; he attended the first course of lectures in Louisville Medical College, at Louisville, Ky., in 1874 and 1875; he then returned to Freeport and began with Dr. Buckley; then went to Orangeville and took care of Dr. B. H. Bradshaw's practice ; afterward, he settled down in Rock Grove and began practice, in 1878; he attended the Rush Medical College, at Chicago, 111., and received hi& diploma, and is now enjoying a good practice. In 1879, he married MissR. E. McNitts^ of Ohio.

JOHN S. WALKER, farmer. Sec. 26 ; P. O. Rock Grove. The subject of this sketch, a son of Col. George Walker, of Dakota, was born in Clinton Co., Penn., Sept. 25, 1845 ; at the age of 4 years, came to Stephenson Co., 111., with father and family, the trip, made in wagons, occupying some five weeks ; has, since 1849, been a resident of this county ; has held school and township offices. Politics, Democratic. On New Year's Day, 1867, he was married to Miss Catharine Fisher, daughter of Solomon Fisher, of Rock Grove Township ; she was born in Stephenson Co., April 15, 1844 ; their children are Willie W., Emma C, Stella M. and Charles C.

WILLIAM WINDECKER, farmer. Sec. 28 ; P. 0. Davis ; born in Seneca Co., N. Y., Feb. 11, 1848 ; he came West to Stephenson Co. with his father and family in 1851 ; the old family consisted of Israel Darling, "her sou; " Susan, now Mrs. Dean ; Charles, Hannah, now Mrs. Reed ; J. C. and Mary. William stayed with his father, engaged in farming, till 1873. In 1872, he married Miss Mary Fosler, of Illinois, and has a family of two - Laura L. and Pearley. In 1863, he enlisted in the 26th I. V. I. and served till 1864 ; he is now farming 167 acres. In politics he is Republican.

DAVID ZIMMERMAN, farmer. Sec. 27 ; P. 0. Rock Grove ; born in Centre Co., Penn., Aug. 4, 1819 ; came to Stephenson Co., 111., in 1854, and settled on Sec. 27. Rock Grove Township, where he now owns 150 acres of land, valued at 850 an acre. In 1-44, he married Miss Elsie E. Ickes, of Perry Co., Penn., who is a daughter of the old revolutionary soldier, " Nicholas Ickes ; " the family consists of eight children - Catherine E., now Mrs. J. Musser ; Emma C., Andrew, x\lbert N., Laura J., Codella L., Saloma A. and Lewis E. Mr. Zimmerman has held the offices of Assessor in 1865, of Supervisor in 1868 on the Republican ticket, and belongs to the Presbyterian Church ; in the Sabbath school he has been an earnest worker.

GEOR()}£ W. ZOIMEKMAX, farmer, Sec. 24 ; P. 0. Davis ; born in Union Co., Penn., April 8, 1849 ; he came to this county, in 1849, with his father, George, and family - Mary A., now Mrs. Kleckner ; Katurah, now Mrs. Adlman ; John, deceased in 1870 ; G. W. and Sophia C. George W. came to this his present location in 1850, and now has 207 acres, valued at $50 an acre. In 1873, he married Miss Nancy Jane Potter, of Illinois, and has a family of three children - Dora Ann, Jesse J., now dead ; and John F. Mr. Zimmerman was School Director for six years, and is a Democrat ; his family attend the Lutheran Church, of which Rev. Jacob Reidler is Pastor. The church was built in the fall of 1878, at a cost of Sl,800 ; has a church membership of twenty-two and Sunday school of sixty-six. Mr. Z. is Deacon of the church.

J. H. ZIMMERMAN, farmer. Sec. 24 ; P. 0. Davis ; born in Centre Co., Penn., Jan. 17, 1846 ; he came to Stephenson Co. in fall of 1849 with his father, Isaac, and the rest of the family, together with brother George and family, and Samuel B. Caldwell and family ; his father died iu the spring of 1877. J. H. now lives on the old estate, and owns 165 acres. On Sept. 15, 1864, he married Miss Margaret Kline, who died in the spring of 1877 ; he married again March 13, 1879, to Miss Liddie Breon, of Centre Co., Penn ; they have a family of five children - Ida J., now Mrs. Breon ; Henry Howard, Amos 0., Mary J. and Franklin S. Mr. Zimmerman was Collector of Rock Grove Township in 1879 ; in politics, he is a Republican ; his family attend the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church.

Source changes here: from History of Stephenson County, Illinois : a Record of Its Settlement, Organization, and Three-quarters of a Century of Progress, by Fulwider, Addison L, published 1910; 2,413 words in this source stream.

Rock Grove Township

Rock Grove Township is the home of a group of the most thrifty and prosperous farmers that can be found anywhere in Stephenson County. The farms are under high cultivation, and each and every one is provided with the most up-to-date machinery and farm appurtenances. The number of new circular barns which have been erected within the last few years in and about Rock Grove exceeds that of any other township of the county. Corn, wheat, oats, rye, and barley are grown in abundance, and hogs, sheep, and cattle are raised in large numbers, and the whole township from one corner to another presents an appearance of thrift, peace, and plenty, which is exceedingly beautiful to the eye.

There are two townships in the county which are not entered by any railroad, and Rock Grove is one of them. There has been talk at various times of connecting Freeport and the village of Rock Grove by an electric line. Such a line would possibly prove a paying venture as it would supply the long felt want of transportation facilities to the dwellers in the village and especially the farmers of the surrounding country. The prospects of an immediate completion of the venture are, however, exceedingly vague.

Rock Grove is traversed by a number of small creeks, notably Rock Creek, which flows south to join Rock Run in Rock Run Township. There are also a number of other small streams which have their sources in this township and flow down to swell the tide of the Pecatonica. The ground is slightly rolling, and the surface of the township is well wooded. There are large groves of valuable timber at Walnut, Linn, and Rock Groves, suitable for building and other mechanical purposes. The water supply is admirable; there are a number of artesian wells of delicious drinking water scattered throughout the region.

No permanent settlement was made in Rock Grove Township earlier than 1835, although many transients and prospectors had passed through on their way westward long before that date. In the summer of 1835, Albert Albertson, accompanied by Johnathan Corey, came to the township, and, having pitched their tents in the vicinity of the present village of Rock Grove, they were so delighted with the aspect of the country that they decided to remain permanently. They entered their claims in Section 36 of the present township and there took up their permanent abode. In December of the same year, Albertson and Corey were joined by Eli Frankeberger, who came with his family from Champaign County, Ohio, and settled in the present village of Rock Grove. In the same month of their arrival, the first white child born in the township, was born to Mr. and Mrs. Frankeberger, and straightway christened "Louisa Frankeberger."

The following winter was one of sore trial to the new settlers, owing to insufficiency of food and supplies. In the course of the winter they were joined by Josiah Blackamore, and later by one or two others. But the recruits were few, and it was only the enthusiasm and courage of the new settlers that kept them from a disgraceful retreat. That they did remain in their chosen habitation is greatly to their credit, and that they never regretted it is shown by the fact that most of them spent the rest of their lives within the bounds of Rock Grove Township, and their descendants are living there today.

In 1836 few new settlers came to Rock Grove Township, but in 1837 they began to come in large numbers. Previous to this year, the settlers had laid their claims in and about the future village of Rock Grove. Some of the newcomers went farther out in the country, as Joseph Musser, who settled in Sections 19 and 20, Thomas Chambers, Samuel Chambers, William Wallace, and a few others. They all clung close to the grove, however, and did not go up into the northern part of the township. In the same year came Mr. Moon, who laid his claim in Sections 31 and 32, east of the grove, Joseph Osborn, who opened a farm in Section 35, and laid claim to timber lands in Section 30. In Section 31, in the future village site, Samuel Guyer and Daniel Guyer came to take up their claim, and later founded the village itself.

The first marriage occurred during the winter of 1836-7, and the contracting parties were Josiah Blackamore and Miss Wallace, a daughter of William Wallace, an early settler. This marriage did not take place in the township itself, however, but in Green County, Wisconsin - hence many of the old settlers disclaim it as the first marriage in the township. It is said that Josiah Blackamore, who was one of an army of volunteer soldiers, who had been sent by the government to aid in driving back the Indians, became smitten with the charms of Miss Wallace and on his return from the Indian wars, he wooed and won her.

In 1838, the first marriage within the bounds of the township itself occurred. Albert and Lavinia Albertson were united in marriage by Eli Frankeberger, who was justice of the county in addition to his farming duties. On

In the fall of 1839, Solomon Fisher and Jacob Fisher came to Rock Grove Township and laid claim to 600 acres of ground in Sections 25 and 26. The claim had previously been entered by Drummond, a transient miner, who erected a 16 by 16 cabin and dug a well. Drummond did not stay long and sold out to the Fisher brothers upon his departure from the locality. In 1839 and 1840 the immigration was large. Among those who came at this time were Peter George, John Fisher, Calvin Preston, J. S. Potter, John Kleckner, John and Reuben Bolender, George and Jacob Maurer, Joseph Barber, Levi, Adam and Michael Bolender, and others. By this time the population of the township was very well distributed. The settlers were not altogether gathered about the grove, but had spread out and taken claims even up in the northern part of the township near the state line.

The first death in the history of the township occurred in 1842, although some say it was 1843, ar*d took place under very tragic circumstances. William Wallace, one of the earliest settlers of the region, became violently insane, and going out into the woods on the edge of the grove, he hung himself to a tree. He was buried in the vicinity of the village of Rock Grove, where the tragic event occurred. Along in 1843 another tragedy occurred, this time a tragedy of mysterious and inexplicable nature. A man named Boardman, who was employed on the farm of one Daniel Noble near Walnut Grove, was shot to death by the hand of an unknown assassin. Nothing was ever learned either of the assassin or the possible motives for his deed, and, although the event transpired nearly seventy years ago, it is still shrouded in the deepest mystery.

After 1839, prosperity began to be apparent in the township. Supplies were easier to obtain, and the founder of several mills in the nearby county, viz : the Van Valzah Mills at Cedarville, the Curtis mills at Orangeville, and various smaller mills on Rock Run, placed the inhabitants of Rock Grove Township in a safe and comfortable position. From about 1841 dates the modern history of Rock Grove Township. In 1844 occurred the sale of government lands at public auction, and thereafter the inpour of settlers was very great. In 1846 the first school was established in the township, in Section 36, near the village site, and the educational facilities of the township have since been on the steady increase. At present no section of the county is provided with better conducted schools. In 1850 the township was set apart and formally organized as Rock Grove Township. In the same year the village of Rock Grove, first known as Guyer's Addition, was founded.

Rock Grove Township comprises a territory of thirty-three square miles, or nearly that area. It contains but one village, the Rock Grove mentioned above. Located in the far northeastern corner of the county, it is farthest of any township from the county seat, but is well provided with schools and churches and is one of the pleasantest spots of the county for permanent residence, both from a farming standpoint and as a place of retreat, where joy and comfort can be the prime factors in life.

Rock Grove

Rock Grove village although not formally platted out until as late as 1850, was one of the oldest villages in the county. It was in reality founded by the first settlers who came to the township, inasmuch as they located their claims in the immediate vicinity of the grove, and many of them in the very town site itself. The land on which the town was later located was originally owned by C. W. Cummings, who afterward sold out to Peter D. Fisher. Fisher himself had also owned some land in the neighborhood and Samuel Guyer owned extensive property just to the west. In 1850 Samuel Guyer laid out the village and sold lots, but the whole settlement was replatted and re-surveyed by Benjamin Dornblazer in 1855. In 1856, on the spth of August, J. D. Schmeltzer set apart, surveyed and platted nine acres in the southwest quarter of Section 36, and called it by the name of Schmeltzer's Addition.

In 1852 Fisher's Addition, which had never been settled thickly enough to deserve the name of village, was abandoned, and sold to Solomon Hoy. Thenceforth it was never used for village purposes, but on April 22, 1869, Samuel H. Fisher laid off four acres south of Schmeltzer's Addition in village lots and a settlement quickly sprang up there. The village is today as it was then, occupying for the most part only four or five streets, with one main street on which the stores and all the principal residences of the village are located .

Rock Grove possesses three churches, schools, two stores, a telephone exchange, a hotel, and several lodges, which meet in the Woodmen's Hall. There are also two cheese factories, one of them operating about a half mile north of Rock Grove, the other some distance west.

Churches. Of the three churches, only the Evangelical and Reformed churches are at present holding divine worship. The third, an Evangelical Lutheran congregation has temporarily disbanded, and no services are being held in the church.

Evangelical Church. The Evangelical adherents of Rock Grove have had a church and held services for a very long time, but for some years after establishing the congregation, no church edifice was bought or built. The congregation held services and worshiped in the church belonging to the Lutheran congregation, located about a half mile west of the center of the village.

In 1878 the congregation had increased to such an extent that it seemed advisable to put up a church building. Under the direction of a building committee consisting of George Meyers, Jere Swartz, Jacob Sullivan, William Alexander, and A. Bolender, an edifice costing $2,300 was put up and paid for by subscriptions from among the farmers of the township and village. The church was dedicated on the 27th of November, 1878, and has been in use ever since that time.

The Rock Grove Evangelical church is in the same charge with the Oakley church, and both are presided over by the Rev. G. Eberly, who has been in residence since about a year ago, when he came here from Anna, Illinois. Both churches are in a prosperous condition. The Rock Grove church is the larger of the two, having a membership of eighty-six and a Sunday school of one hundred and twenty. The Oakley church has a membership of sixty-two and a Sunday school of about sixty. The church owns a parsonage, beautifully located in the village of Rock Grove, and valued at about $1,000. The Rock Grove church is estimated at about $1,600, and the Oakley church at a slightly smaller amount.

Reformed Church. The Reformed church holds its services in the Lutheran church building west of town. The membership is very small, having a congregation of about fourteen, with a Sunday school of twenty. The pastoral duties are performed by the Rev. G. W. Kerstetter, pastor of the Dakota church, and services are held only occasionally. The Rock Grove charge was only established in 1908.

Evangelical Lutheran Church. The Evangelical Lutheran church holds its services at intervals in the above mentioned church west of the village of Rock Grove. At the present time the church is without a pastor, the Rev. Mr. Delo having left some time ago. It is probable that services in the Rock Grove church will be altogether discontinued.

Lodges. Rock Grove boasts of two lodges, the Rock Grove Lodge of the I. O. O. F. and the Rock Camp, No. 142 of the Modern Woodmen of America. The former has been in existence for many years, having been founded about thirty years ago. The membership at present is extended to about sixty members. G. Frankeberger is noble grand and Henry Long is secretary. The M. W. A. Lodge was established twenty years ago and has a membership of about forty. Both of these organizations meet in the M. W. A. hall on Main street.

The Kaup Hotel and feed barn has been conducted for some years by F. S. Kaup on East Main street. Mr. Kaup intends to move to Orangeville, where he will conduct the Central Hotel. He has kept a most excellent house in Rock Grove and his departure will be deeply regretted. There is no rival institution, nor has any provision been made for a new hotel as yet.

There is one general store, conducted by D. L. Thoren, also a Bell telephone exchange. The present population of the village is estimated at about three hundred, with no prospects for any great increase in the near future. Rock Grove is one of the most picturesquely situated villages in the county, and affords quiet and rest for a large number of prosperous retired farmers, whose comfortable and well kept homes line the main street of the village. Although not on any railroad line, Rock Grove is easily accessible, being only a few miles from the C., M. & St. P. station at Rock City, and about eighteen miles from Freeport.