Sparta Township

Sparta Township

Ancient Sparta, after which this township was probably named, existed before the Christian era 800 years, and was the capital of Laconia, and the rival of Athens in the history of ancient Greece. Sparta has been handed down through all history as a synonym of simplicity of personal habit, domestic economy and courage. Mr. Amos Wilmot is accredited with suggesting the name of Sparta for the township at its organization. Mr. Wilmot was born in Connecticut, March 3, 1802, and was one of the first settlers in the township. After a prosperous life of 76 years, and with a hope of a happy immortality, he died at his home Aug. 28, 1878.

Hezekiah Burford settled on section 23 in 1834. He is now in Monmouth, Oregon. Cyrus Bobbins, from New York, settled on section 5 in 1836. His two brothers Levy and Reuben settled on section 5 the same year. These brothers planted out a nursery, from

Asaph DeLong and Luman Field, from Vermont, and Wm. M. Heath from New York, settled on section 31 in 1836. Julius DeLong came from Vermont in January, 1838, and settled on the south half of the southwest quarter of section 31, the present home of his son, Hon. M. P. DeLong, who has represented his township at different times in various offices from the very first organization. He has been an active member of the Knox County Agricultural Society for fifteen years; was its president three years during that time; has served as Justice of the Peace three terms of four years each, and is now in the fourth term; was elected and served as Supervisor of his township in 1874, when the farmers were organizing into farmers' clubs and granges throughout the Northwest, which in time became national, for the purpose of counter-balancing the influence of the giant monopolies of the railroads which existed ax, that time. We will refer to these organizations again farther along in the history of this township. The prairie fires in the early settlement of the township were something to be dreaded. The broad, wide-spreading prairies for untold years had lain beneath the sun and the showers, gathering richness, until the vegetable growth was something marvelous, and the tall native grasses would in places hide man and beast. And when a fire chanced to start in this waving ocean of dried and inflammable material, it was a sure messenger of death to every living thing or creature in its relentless course, unless due precaution had been previously exercised to guard against it. The roar of the flames when driven by a strong wind could be heard two and three miles away, as was the case one night when these early settlers were awakened by Miss Maria Field, daughter of Luman Field, and sister of the late Hon. Loyal C. Field, of Galesburg. She, living with her parents near where Center Point now is, awakened about midnight, and discovering the danger of the settlement, ran from house to house, and gave the alarm. A fire had started at Red Oak, in Henry Co., 111., and now was rushing southward, two miles wide, before a furious wind from the north, with a terrible roar that will never be forgotten by those who heard it. Fortunately the citizens in this township being forewarned, were fore-armed and prepared to give battle when the fire came. Trenches and " back fire " and wet blankets were used to save the buildings, fences and stocks; and even then the heavy wind would carry wisps of burning grass so far that a continual effort was required until the billow of fire had passed.

James and Abram Neely came from Cayuga, New York, the latter in 1836, and made him a home on section 8. He now lives in Missouri. The former made a home on section 30, where he has since lived. Part of section 8 was afterwards occupied by T. G. Iladley, who originally came from " way down" in Maine. Also on section 8 may be found G. S. Hawkins, who was for many years a merchant in Henderson, also A. S. Fitch, who, with many others from this loyal township, was one of " the soldiers in blue" during the civil war. Section 8 also includes the premium farm owned by A. N. Phelps, Esq., and contains 200 acres without a foot of waste land. This farm was granted the first premium by the Illinois State Agricultural Society in 1868, and again in 1870. It had been awarded the first premium by the Knox County Agricultural Society previously for five successive years.

Mr. Phelps was born in Westfield, Mass., September 9, 1819. He came, with his mother and his two sisters, to Galesburg in 1836. The amount of his worldly possessions at that time was enough to buy a box stove and a cow, valued at $30. The eldest daughter became Mrs. G. Avery, of Galesburg, and the youngest the wife of B. Kilbourn, of Wisconsin. The mother died at Galesburg, November 23, 1855. The father, Aaron Noble Phelps, had died previous to the family's moving west, at Westfield, Mass., in March, 1830. He and his wife (Miss Clarissa Root) were married in 1814. Their only son, A. N. Phelps, and Miss Sarah J. Adams were married March 29, 1847, and moved to their present home in 1856, which has since taken the premiums already mentioned.

Johnson Babcock was born in 1770, in Rensselaer county, New York. Miss Zilpha Green was born near Poughkeepsie, New York. These two were united in marriage in 1796. Ransom Babcock, their son, was born September 20, 1822, and in 1839 he came from Onondaga county, New York, to Knox county, arriving at Galesburg the 12th of July; was married to Miss Mary Miller, September 1, 1842. Mrs. Babcock was born January 7, 1825, and is the daughter of James H. and Hannah (Preston) Miller, originally from New England, who came from Michigan to Knox county in 1838.

William S. Patterson, on section 18, is one of the most extensive farmers in the township. His single shipments of cattle and hogs have at times amounted to $30,000 or $40,000, especially during the civil war, when the price of live cattle was eight cents per pound, and live hogs ten and twelve cents per pound. He introduced manychoice breeds of cattle and hogs. One car-load of short-horns were purchased by him in Kentucky and brought home in 1871. "William S. Patterson was born in Columbus, Ohio, December 13, 1825, and at Henderson, 111., September 30, 1834, was united in marriage with Miss Matilda Miller, whose parents were James H. and Hannah (Preston) Miller, natives of New England. Mr. and Mrs. W. S. Patterson moved to their present home in 1855.

William Williamson, one of the township commissioners for 1878, has also introduced the short-horn cattle on his farm. His residence is located on section 21.

Mr. Robson, the present supervisor, owns 500 acres of land. The Robson Bros, have been extensive shippers of stock. William Robson came to his present home in Sparta township in 1863, and he has made single shipments from Wataga station amounting to $35,000. He has also introduced short-horn cattle, Poland China and Berkshire hogs.

Niles Bros., whose residences are located on sections 21 and 19, are from Chatham, Columbia county, New York. They were proprietors of the Wataga mill for seven years before turning their attention to farming. They introduced the short-horn cattle on their farms in the spring of 1874 - 30 head that year - at a cost of from $100 to $500 each.

Mons Olson's home is located south of Wataga, on sections 28 and 33, and what is known as the Mound, which is one of those beautiful elevations that occur occasionally in this part of the Mississippi valley.

Anson Rowe, born in Vermont, came to Center Point with his family in 1838, and settled on section 19. His son, Lorenzo Rowe, moved on his farm, section 19, in 1850.

One of the institutions of the township is the Wataga Nursery, temporarily begun by O. W. Hon' in 1864, and permanently established in 1869, on the southwest quarter of section 16, one block south of the Wataga Mills, by Hoff & Cooper, whose term of partnership was for five years, since which time O. W. Hoff has owned and conducted it. Mr. H. has been in the business since January, 1858, working at first with T. K. Phoenix, at the Bloomington Nursery. Pie came from his native place, Greenbush, Rensselaer county, New York, in 1855.

The township was organized in 1853. Thomas H. Taylor was elected Supervisor, and was re-elected in 1851. Mr. Taylor was born July 14, 1815, on the Isle of Wight; came to New York in 1823, and to Sparta township in 1846; hauled the lumber for his house from La Salle, 111., 80 miles; shipped the first load of pork and wool through the Illinois canal; was appointed Postmaster under Buchanan, and resigned after holding the office three years; is now living on section 14.

Peter Davis was elected Supervisor in 1855, without opposition. Mr. Davis was born in 1801, in Kentucky, and came to Knox county in 1834; died at his home, in Sparta township, March 15, 1871.

J. W. Holyoke was elected Supervisor in 1856, and was re-elected for nine successive years; then he was elected Representative; then he was elected Supervisor four successive years; after an interval of four years was again elected Supervisor in 1875, which office he occupied for three years.

In 1872-3 the farmers began to organize throughout the States into clubs and granges. "The Sparta Farmers' Club" was organized in the Town Hall, March 1, 1873; adopted a constitution that was furnished in printed form to local clubs, and the following objects were embodied in Article II: "Its objects shall be improvement in the theory and practice of agriculture and horticulture; to promote the moral, intellectual, social, and pecuniary welfare of its members; and by active and cordial co-operation with other clubs, and with its county committee, to assist in carrying to a successful issue the objects of the State Association." Whatever they might 'be was not known to the general membership, - perhaps not to any in the local clubs; and it was generally thought that, to be consistent with the expressed objects of the clubs, none but agriculturists and horticulturists should be members. This caused a division of sentiment; for the merchants and lawyers claimed they should be made welcome, as "all their interests were in farms." The result was that at the first annual re-election of officers the County Farmers' Association was captured by the politicians, and a professional lawyer elected Supreme Judge. This diverted the attention of the people from the primary and meritorious

The first coal banks opened in the township were near where Charles W. Rhodes now lives, sections 21 and 22. Levy James, A. A. Spooner, Lomas & Babcock, and others, took part in opening banks, until in 1855-6 there were about 40 banks; 30 of them near Wataga, and managed chiefly by Holyoke and Dolan. Also Taylor and Parkinson had quite a number of banks, at different times. About 1856 there were employed 250 men ; and probably 100,000 bushels of the " Black Diamonds " were put into the market annually from the deep ravine that runs east from the village. Of late there has not been so much mining in the coal fields at this point. There have been two shafts sunk near the C, B. & Q. P. P., on the west side, both of them about 80 feet deep. The one near the village, by the Illinois Carbon Coal Company, changed hands before completed, and has not been worked. The Sparta Steam Shaft is about ^ a mile southwest of the village, on the east side. The shaft has been established about 7 years, and yields a good quality of coal. This is run at present by Peter Dolan, who paid out for mining, during the month of September, 1878, $1,200. Banks have been opened on section 28, by H. Pommel and Oliver Stream, south of the village. About one mile east of the village there are banks worked by Pobert Campbell, Andrew Johnson, Henry Bellamy, Peter Knight, Milo Tompkins, Pobert Thompson, Ed. McDermot, Andrew Danielson, Lewis Nodine, James Taylor, and two or three others, whose names we do not have. Price of coal at the banks at the present time is 5|- cents per bushel of 80 lbs. There have been but few accidents, comparatively, in the mines in Wataga or adjoining territory. Emanuel Harris lost his life by the bank caving in. Wm. Hitchey was fatally injured, May 18, 1857, in the air shaft, by the falling of clay. He lived but three or four days. Paul Convery, Nov. 23, 1859, lost his life by the bank caving in. Peter Cling, on the morning of Oct. 17, 1875, fell from the top of a shaft down some 71 feet. He lived, but had to have one leg, the left, amputated. A visitor from the East was down the Sparta Steam Shaft, when the platform started upward, and his head was caught between that and the wall of the shaft. The result was, he nearly lost his scalp and skull, but lived to report to his friends.

Source changes here: from Portrait and Biographical Album of Knox County, Illinois, by Biographical Publishing Company, Buffalo and Chicago, published 1886; 4,331 words in this source stream.

Sparta Township

ing the following officers were elected : T. H. Taylor, Supervisor; Asaph DeLong, Clerk; Stephen Smith, Assessor; C. W. Riiodes, Collector ; D. Reed, Stephen Russell, Peter Davis, Commissioneis of Highways; Morvan BakerandHugh Ferguson, Justices of the Peace; M. P. DeLong, Constable.

This township is indebted for its classic name to Amos Wilniot. Hezekiah Burlbrd has the credit of being the first settler in the township. He came in the spring of 1834, locating on section 5. He with his family moved with tlie colony that went to Oregon about the year 1850, locating at Monmouth. Amos Wilniot, from Connecticut, joined the pioneer Burford, June 5, 1836. He was born in 1802. He had by liis wife (Betsey Crawford) ten children, six daughters and four sons. Mr. Wilniot was a publicspirited man, and was much interested in the promotion of education and religion. He died Aug. 28, 1878. Cyrus Robbins, from New York, made a claim on section 5, early in the year 1836. His two brothers, Levi and Reuben, joined him the same year, locating on the same section.

About the first thing these brothers did was to start a nursery, from which afterward were established fine orchards and groves ; one of these groves has since been known as " Robbins' Grove. This little settlement was increased later on in the season by the arrival of Asaph DeLong and Luman Field, from Vermont, and Wm. M. Heath, from New York, locating on section 31. About this time also came tlie brothers James and Abraham Neely, from Cayuga, N. Y.,the former locating on section 30, and the latter on section 8. Abraham moved to Missouri, and James lived at the old place. Among the early settlers were Richard, Joseph and William Armstrong, S. S. Russell, Stephen Smith, Thomas and Geo. W. Falkner, Morvan Baker, C. C. West and B. Pickrel. When once the start was made this township settled quite rapidly, and by an excellent class of citizens. They were mostly from the East, and understood farming and stock-raising, as was afterward shown by their fine farms and the quality of their stock. During the early days prairie fires were frequent. Combustible material had been accumulating for years, and when the fire got in it threatened destruction to everything, and cast terror and dismay over the neighborhood. A fire started at Red Oak, in Henry County, and, moving southward with fearful roar, threatened to destroy the settlement in this township. Happily it was discovered before it reached the settlement, by a daughter of Luman Field, who awakened about midnight. She gave the alarm by" running from house to house, and devastation was prevented. Back-fires were started, trenches were dug, and wet blankets were placed upon the buildings and fences, and by these and other means the settlements were saved. There are some fine coalbanks and coal-veins in Sparta, which have been a source of considerable revenue to the people, and were the means of furnishing cheap fuel. The first banks opened were on sections 21 and 22, south of Wataga. Mines have been opened since in different parts of the township, and an extensive business is carried on in this department. The coal is of a good quality, and much of it readily mined. Some shafts, however, have been put down to the depth of 100 feet. Sparta is pretty well watered by little streams that meander through it, and the southeast portion is liberally timbered, where the land is somewhat broken. The other portions of the township are roll- < ing prairie, with a productive soil.

The railroad, which was completed through in December, 1854, enters the township on section 2, and running southwest passes out on the southwest corner of section 31. The population in 1880 was 1,682, and there has been a slight increase since that time. Most of the farmers are in independent circumstances.

There are nine school districts, one graded and eight ungraded schools. The school property was valued at $9,000 and the district has eight frame and one brick school buildings, with one library.

' line had been established. This road runs northeast and southwest througli the center of the town, and was completed about the 1st of December, 1854. J. M. Holyoke was the first resident. Willard & Babcock opened the first store in town. The building was put up by J. M. Holyoke and A. P. Cassel. A defxit was erected in 1856, and a hotel, called the VVataga House, was opened by Loren Smith. Silas Willard sold out to A. P. Wood in 1856, and in 1859 Mr. Wood bought out Amos P. Babcock. Mr. Willard is dead, and Mr. Babcock is living in Galesburg. After the railroad was opened there were several stores started and a thriving trade was carried on here.

In 1868 A. P. Wood opened his banking house. The first religious exercises were held in private houses; it was not long, however, before several fine churches were erected. In 1863 it was incorporated under a special act of the Legislature. The election for Village Trustees was held September 19, and resulted in H. P. Wood, J. M. Holyoke, C. F. Farnsworth and John H. Shoop being elected Trustees. H. P. Wood was subsequently chosen President, and Luther B. Hunt, Clerk. In 1874 the village was re-

' incorporated under the general village law of 1872, with a territory embracing one mile square. There is considerable business done in Wataga, and there

Williamson & Bros, have a flouring-mill, where they are operating three runs of stone and make a good article of flour. A tile and brick factory is carried on by Charles Pister & Co. They have fine claybeds and are making a good article of tile and brick. Coal mining is quite an addition to the business of Wataga. There are several firms now engaged in mining coal, which is hauled and shipped to other markets. The beds worked now are mostly on sections 15 and 21 ; the veivis are from two to four feet in width. Wataga has a trade tiot only from Sparta, but from nearly all of the townships surrounding it, and its business as well as population is on the increase. The estimated population is now upward of 700. It is pleasantly located, and is populated by a good class of people. The present village officers are: C. H. Martin, J. H. Merrill, Charles Palmer, Charles Pister, Edward Huston and Wm. M. Thomas, Trustees, with C. H. Martin, President; Wm. M. Driggs, Treasurer; M. O. Williamson, Clerk, and J. L. Temple, Marshal. Edward Huston is the present Postmaster.

Wataga has a good graded school, which is presided over by Miss Anna M. Sommers,who is assisted by Miss Frances Reed in the Grammar Department, Miss Ida Temple in the Intermediate, and Miss Addie Wiles in the Primary. Enrollment, r7o; average attendance, about 140. The grade is low, but a full English course is taught so far as they go. The building is a two-story brick. The graded school was started in 1867. This school district was organized Nov. 7, 1845.

Band

Wataga is proud in the possession of an excellent band, the members of which are in good practice and play well. They have a beautiful set of nickelplated instruments, from which the band takes its name. M. O. Williamson is Leader; C. L. Dennison. Assistant; G. W. Mallon, Secretary, and J. L. Robinson, Treasurer. They have 16 members, and were orgainized in November, 1885.

The S%ve<iisli Evangelical Lutheran Church was organized in 1856; the first pastor was Rev. T. N. Hasselquist, who remained several years. Rev. F. O. Deuwell served next, remaining only a short time, and was followed by Rev. S. P. Larsen, who served several years. The next pastor was Rev. Axel Setterdah, who was succeeded by Rev. S. F. Vesterdah. Rev. A. Lindholm took charge after Vesterdah, and was followed by Rev. J. F. Borg. Then came Rev. L. G. Abrahamson, the present pastor. The church building was completed in i860, at a cost of about $1 ,500. Before this building was erected, the society held services in private houses and in school-rooms. This building was burned in 1875, and a new one was erected the same year at a cost of about $2,500. Present membership about 125. They have no parsonage, but an interesting Sunday-school.

The Swedish Methodist Church was organized in December, 1857, their first pastor being Rev. V. Witting. The same year of their organization they erected a house of worship, at a cost of $1,500. They have a membership at present of about 60, with a good Sabbath-school.

The First Congregational Church was organized June 10, 1855. For some years they held services in private dwellings and in school-houses. In i860 the society was strong enough to erect a church building, which cost upward of $3,000. In 1876 a parsonage was completed, costing about $2,000. The Methodist Episcopal Church was organized in 1855 or 1856 by Rev. L. P. Crouch. Lucius Vail, Harriet Vail, B. W. Foster, Ann Foster, John Gaddis, Mrs. Gaddis, Lydia Thorp, L. F. Spaulding and wife, S. G. Dean, Ruth Dean, Bartlett Hall and wife, with possibly a few others, composed tlie membership. The society worshiped awhile in the school -house, and then in the Swedish Methodist Episcopal Church building until the erection and dedication of the building now occupied by them, which enterprise was started in 1866, under the pastorate of Rev. J. W. Coe, and dedicated in December, 1867, by Rev. W. H. Hunter, Presiding Elder. Rev. J. Luccock was pastor. The following are the names and terms of service of the successive pastors from the organization to the present time; 1855-56, L. P. Crouch; 1857, Wm. Clark; 1858-59, G. W. Brown; 1860-61, Wm. Watson; 1862-63, W. J. Smith ; 1864-65, Wm. Haney; 1866, J. W. Coe; 1867, J. Luccock; 1868- 69, D. Perchin ; 1870, J. M. Murphy; 1871-72, N. T. Allen; 1873, H. Brink; 1874-75, D. Ayers ; 1876, A. Kellar; 1877, N. G. Clark; 1878-80, H. S. Humes; 1881-83, J. Rugh; 1884-85, N. T. Allen, the present effii ient and popular pastor, who is serving them for the second term. The present membership is 78. The Sunday-school numbers about 100 members. J. Gehring is Superintendent, with L. Peterson and Miss Ella Winnerstrnnd, Assistants ; Addie Wiles, Secretary; Ida Temple, Treasurer; Louis Rowe, Librarian. Revs. Kelly, R. D. Russell and J. L. Knowlton were assistants during the years 186 1 to 1864. G. J. Johnson, a student of Hedding College, Abingdon, is assistant preacher at the present time.

Star of Hope Lodge, l\'o. jop, /. O. G. T., was first organized in 1871, and did efficient work for a number of years, then suspended operations for a time, but was reorganized in April, 1884. The present membership is 98. Their regular meetings are held on Friday night of each week, in the Masonic Hall. They also hold public meetings on the second Sunday night of each mouth, in the Town Hall. Among the membership are some of the leading citizens of the place, while many of the young find a refuge here and are instructed in those principles so essential to the formation of good character and a suitable preparation for a useful life. This Lodge, outside of its regular lodge work, has made appropriations of funds several times for advancing the interests of temperance in the community and for missionary purposes. Officers are elected every three months. The following are those for the present term : Rev. N. T. Allen, P. W. C. T.; W. E. Bonta, W. C. T Ida Temple, W. V. T.; Minnie Engdale, W. S.; G. W. Mallen, W. A. S.; Mrs. L. M. Fitch, W. F. S.; Chas. Dennison, W. T.; Mrs. N. T. Allen, W. C; Mary Temple, W. M.; Meit Carley, W. D. M.; Kate Engdale, W. I. G.; Chas. Anderson, W. S.; Chas. Harkness, L. D.

'RURO TOWNSHIP was first settled by John Dill, in the spring of 1832. Mr. Dill ^ entered a claim in section 19, erected a rude cabin, and commenced the improvement of a home. He was soon followed by J. Ryan^ John Coleman, the Stambaughs and others. Mrs. Lambert, a widow, was one of the early settlers

The first marriage was between J. Ryan and Miss Stanibaugh, in 1833. This couple were married by Rev. J. Cunimings. The first natural increase to the population of this township came through the Dill family, in the birth of Andrew Dill, in 1833. The first death in the township was one which threw a gloom of sadness over the entire settlement. This was the drowning of Malon VVinans, of Lewistown, while attempting to swim Spoon River, the mail-bag on his back. Mr. \Vinans had secured a sub-contract for carrv'iug the United States mail from Lewistown to Monmouth, from O. M. Ross, which he intended for his young son, but had started to make the first trip in order to define the route, make the necessary arrangements for stopping places, etc. This was in 1834. John Coleman started the first ferry, on section 30, in 1834, which at that time was known as Coleman's Ferry. The first post-office was established here about this time.

A very peculiar mode of disposing of their dead had been adopted by the Indians who had lived in and about this township. Logs about seven feet long had been halved and then dug out sufficiently to receive the bodies, which were then placed in them, and the troughs or coffins were elevated into the forks of trees, which were arranged to hold them. When the whites came in they found Lo's remains resting in this way, with the skeletons projecting from the top. They were taken down and buried after the manner of the white man.

Truro went into township organization with the other townships, April 5, 1853. The meeting was held at the house of L. P. Lewis. Thomas B. Ross was chosen Chairman of the meeting; Giles B. Cook, Moderator; and F. K. Lewis, Clerk. The election resulted in the choice of Augustus Lapham, Supervisor; John P. Cadwell, Clerk; Benj. Sweat, Assessor; Levi Seward, Collector; Thomas Ross and Joseph Oberholtzer, justices of the Peace; Thos. Crawford, Luther Rice and Joseph Wilder, Commissioners of Highways; Thos. Ross, Overseer of the Poor.

No railroad lines enter its borders, but it has more miles of Spoon River and is more liberally watered than any other township in the county. This river enters on section 13, and, after running with all the points of the compass, it goes out on section 30, wa- taring in its independent course 17 sections. Above and along this river the land is quite broken ; below it is mostly rolling prairie. The soil is rich and productive. Attention has been given by the farmers of late years to the raising of stock, which has been quite successful.

Truro has no town, and the people do their trading mostly at Victoria ; some go to Yates City, which is the nearest railroad point. The township has a good many fine farms and farm buildmgs, and the people on the whole are prosperous. In 1880, according to the census, the population was 712, and this is about the number to-day. There are eight school districts, with eight ungraded schools and eight frame schoolhouses. Of the persons under 2 1 years of age there were 332, of whom 212 were of school age, 161 being enrolled.

JjKij^P^ICTORlA is in the eastern tier of townships jIImIIj and was organized as a township April 5, \^®^ 1853. George F. Reynolds was chosen ^V Moderator of the meeting, and M. D. Minard^ ( Clerk. The 68 votes that were cast resulted in the election of the following-named citizens to be township officers : J. L. Jarnagin, Supervisor; J. F. Hubbell, Clerk; M. D. Minard, Assessor; Chas. A. Shurtliff, Collector; John T. Smith and Moses Robinson, Justices of the Peace; A. B. Codding, Peter Van Buren and J. W. Mosher, Commissioners of Highways; Chas. A. Shurtliff and Seneca Mosher, Constables ; .\lex. Sornborger, Overseer of the Poor. The first settlers in this township were John Essex, Edward Brown and Mr. Frazier, in 1835, with their families. In the spring of 1836, the Robinsons came in, locating on section 21. They consisted of three brothers, Moody, Moses and Archibald, and their families. Following them were Passon Aldridge and wife, the latter a sister of the Robinsons. G. F,

Reynolds came up from Tazewell County in the spring of 1836, made a claim and then went back, returning in the spring of 1837, and settled down on section 7 with wife and four children. He was born in New Hampshire in 1799. Here he married Abigail Locke, in 1825, who died many years ago. Mr. Reynolds is still living in Victoria village, and for a man of his age is pretty hale and hearty. During his long term of life he has been an active and leading man, and has held many important township positions. Moody Robinson and his wife lived and died on the old homestead, the former March 10, 1881, and the latter in November, 1 869 They reared nine children, all of whom are living. Moses Robinson is still living, but his wife is dead.

With Mr. Reynolds came H. Shurtliff and wife, and Isaiah Berry and family. Passon Aldridge^and wife died in the township. Silas Locke came in 1837 and made a claim just north of the Robinsons. He had no family at the time", but subsequently married ; he has been dead many years.

In 1838 several additions were made to this settlement, among whom were Ruter Smith and family, from New York, John Arnold, Peter Sornborger and Conrad Smith. Ruter Smith located on section 6. They had four children when they came - Arthur A., ^ who has for many years been Circuit Judge of the loth Judicial District; Oliver; Jane, who married Mr. Becker, and Sarah, who married Dr. Nance. Several children were born to them after they settled in this township. They were a fine family, and Mrs. Smith is especially held in affectionate remembrance. Mr. Smith died at an early day near Monmouth, while aw;iy on business. G. F. Reynolds had four children - three boys and a girl, all of whom are living but one, John W. Charles lives in I0W4 ; Julia Ann married Theo. Hammond and is living in the township; George H. is married and lives in the village of Victoria. Conrad Smith located on section 30. He raised a family of 13 children - 8 boys and 5 girls. These children became widely separated, moving to different parts of the country. Subsequently they all returned to Knox County but two, who settled in Stark and Peoria Counties.

Sarah, daughter of Moody and Mary (Kevelt) Robinson, was the first child born in Victoria. This important event occurred on section 2r, Nov. r6, 1836. Miss Sarah married M. Mosher Dec. 29, 1853. She and her husband are now living in the

The first marriage in the township was between Peter Sornborger and Phoebe Wilbur, in the latter part of 1838. The first death was that of Mrs, Frazier, who died in 1837. Henr)' Shurtliff taught the first school, in 1838, about two miles east of the present town of Victoria, in a log cabin.

Geo. F. Reynolds was the first Postmaster, in 1838, receiving his appointment from .^mos Kendall,' who was then Postmaster-General. Mr. Reynolds also built the first hotel for the accommodation of the early travelers. It was a large frame building. He hauled his lumber from Chicago, to which place he took his wheat and sold it for 50 cents a bushel. This hotel was built near the present site of Victoria. Passon Aldridge had the honor to be the first man to dispense justice in the township. To this position he was elevated by his fellow-citizens as early as 1837, and it is remembered that they never regretted this action.

Rev. Charles Bostic was the first to administer spiritual consolation to this pioneer settlement, in J( r836. The meeting was held at the residence of Moses Robinson.

Victoria is one of the few townships in the county that has no railroad. It has, ho»vever, a thriving town of its own name, where the people do their marketing and trading. The southwestern portion is somewhat broken and is also liberally timbered. The balance of the township is beautiful rolling prairie, with a very fertile soil. In this township are some of the finest farms in the county, which are ornamented with handsome dwellings and shady groves. Its population in 1880 was 1,252, and it is estimated that there has been a slight gain since that time.

There are nine school districts in this township, one graded and eight ungraded schools, with nine frame school-houses. The school property is valued at $4,800.

HIS pretty little village is located upon a commanding site on the eastern line of Victoria Township. Beautiful little hills and valleys, stretching far away in the distance, can be seen from almost every point. The town was originally started about a mile east of the present site, where there was a small store and a blacksmith-shop. This was in 1839, the year that Queen Victoria was crowned, from whom it took its name. The town did not remain here long, and " Uncle " Reynolds is sometimes accused of stealing it and mov-ing it up to the present site. From conversation with this sturdy old pioneer we are inclined to think there is some truth in this report. The proprietors of Victoria were Geo. F. Reynolds, John Becker. Albert Arnold, J. W. Spaulding, W. L. Shurtliff, Jonas Hedstrom, Joseph Freed and J. J. Knapp. It was laid out by A. A. Denny, County Surveyor. A part of the plat is in section 7 and a part in section 18, also in sections 12 and 13, in Copley Tosvnship.

John Becker had the enterprise to open the first store in town, and G. F. Reynolds opened the first hotel ; he also erected the first house. Mr. Reynolds was also the first Postmaster here. He was succeeded by Isaiah Berry. Mr. Peuse succeeded Berry, who was followed by Ephraim Russell. Henry K. Olmstead then held Uncle Sam's commission for several years, and was succeeded by Louis Emery, who gave place to Lee Shannon, the present Postmaster.

This town was on the stage route from Burlington to Chicago via Kno.xville. Four-horse Concord coaches for many years were wont to roll through this town and stop beneath the shadow of Reynolds' far-famed hostelry. Here this hospitable landlord entertained the traveling public for 15 years.

Victoria is well laid out, with many attractive dwellings and some good business-houses. It is thrifty and has an extensive and rich farming country to support it. People come here from Lynn, Truro, Persifer, Copley and Walnut Grove Townships with their produce and for marketing. There is some talk of getting a branch railroad through here. It has a population now of about 700 souls.

There is a very good school here, which is partially graded. A. VV. Ryan is Principal, with Mrs. K. \V. Ryan, Assistant. The enrollment in the upper department is 43, in the lower 42. The average attendance in both, 75.

Congregational Church of Victoria. This society was organized under Presbyterian auspices, April 30, 184 1. The meeting was held at George Foster's residence. Members of the first organization were George and Jane Foster, Geo. F. Reynolds and wife, John Foster and wife, Wm., Harriet and Nancy Foster and Henrietta Gaines. The first pastor wns Rev. S. G. Wright. Meetings were held in private houses and school-houses for several years.

In April, 1849, the society adopted the Congregational system. The church building was erected in 1851 on section 18. and was dedicated .Aug. 12, 1852. It cost about §1,500. Rev. David Todd succeeded Mr. Wright in the spring of 1847. and served the church until 1850, when they had supplies for awhile. Among these supplies were Jonathan Blanchard and F. A. Armstrong. In April, 1853, Rev. Wra. Beardsley was installed, remaining until October, 1855. For several years thereafter they had supplies. In February, 1862, Rev. B. F. Haskins assumed charge, serving the church until 1874. He was succeeded by Rev. L. E. Benton, who remained until July, t875, when H. C. Abernethy took charge, serving until May, 1878, when they again had supplies. In May, 1879, Rev. E. H. Bakerwas installed, serving until January, 1883. They had supplies then until May, 1884. At that time the services of Rev. Wm. Chappell were obtained, who remained until August, 1885. Since this time the church has had no regular pastor. The membership is small. A good parsonage is owned by the society, valued at

Swedish Methodist Church. The first class for the Swedish people was organized by Rev. Mr. Jonas Hedstrom, Dec. 15, 1846, in a little log house in Victoria, with five members, who were taken on probation. This mission was served by several preachers, but Mr. Hedstrom was the regular pastor until 1857, when Rev. N. C. Westergreen took charge, serving until 1858; Rev. V. Witting from 1858 until i860. In i860 Peter Newborg was placed in charge. In 1861, Albert Ericson; in 1863, N. Peterson; in 1866, Peter Newborg; in 1869, John H. Ekstrand ; in 1872, H. W. Ehlund; in 1873, John Burstrom ; in 1875, A. Walgron ; in 1876, H. Olson; in 1878, C. F. Levin; in 1880, J. B. Anderson, who remained until 1883, when Rev. P. M. Johnson, the present pastor, took charge. In 1854 ihey erected their first church building, at a cost of $2,000. Subsequently they built a parsonage at a cost of $500. Present membership, no.

Source changes here: from Annals of Knox County : Commemorating Centennial of Admission of Illinois As a State of the Union in 1818, by Knox County (Ill.). Centennial Historical Association, published 1921; 1,559 words in this source stream.

Sparta Township

This township was organized April 5, 1853, at the home of Thomas H. Taylor, on Section 14, and the following town officers were elected: T. H. Taylor, Supervisor; Asaph DeLong Clerk; Stephen Smith, Assessor; Charles R. Rhodes, Collector; D. Reed, Stephen Russell and Peter Davis, Highway Commissioners; Moran Baker and Hugh Ferguson, Justices of the Peace, and Marshall P. Belong, Constable. Mr. DeLong afterwards served the town as Justice of the Peace for twenty-five years. S. .G Dean served eight years, and John J. Sutor for a number of years. William Robson served long continuously as supervisor.

While Hezekiah Buford has the credit of being the first settler by building on Section 23, in 1834, the Wilmots have a record for longest continuous residence on the same land, for Amos Wilmot built a log cabin in June, 1836, on Section 6, in which he lived for fifteen years. He then built a house, where he lived until his death in 1878. Very soon after his arrival came Reuben, Cyrus and Edward Robbins, brothers, and Levi Roberts, a cousin. The first of these was about the last of the early settlers. To him we are indebted for some of the information given in this sketch. From the fact that Levi Robbins having raised a large orchard and other trees "Robbins' Grove" was for many years a noted land-mark and people came long distances for apples, as well as to hold picnics. In 1836, Asaph DeLong (who built the first house between Knoxville and Heath timber), Luman Field and William Heath settled on Section 31. The latter was married at Knoxville to Lucinda Field in 1837, and "hung up" housekeeping in their log cabin, a picture of which is still preserved. In a northeast direction they had but one neighbor nearer than Victoria. Mrs. Heath was a member of the society of the Daughters of the American Revolution, she being a granddaughter of Elisha Field, Jr., and a great granddaughter of Elisha Field, Sr., both of whom fought in the Revolutionary war. She possessed papers showing the entire war history of her illustrious ancestors. Her grandchildren presented her with the badge of the society, which is an old-fashioned spinning wheel with beautiful surroundings and inscriptions.

James Neely settled on Section 30 in 1838, and Abram Neely on Section 5 a few years later. Other early settlers were : B. Ely, Thomas and George W. Faulkner, Booker Pickrel and C. C. West. Among those who came subsequently and who, with those already mentioned, as well as those who will be noticed hereafter, have been influential in the political and religious prosperity of the township, are Solomon Lyon, J. V. R. Carley, Schuyler Goldsmith, A. F. Adams, William E. Morse, Henry Rommel, L. W. Olson, Oliver Stream, Joseph Masters, J. H. Merrill, James Paddock, Edmund Kennedy, James Barry, WilHam S. Patterson, William A. Lee, Jr., D. W. Nisley, R. W. Hulse, Vickrey Nation, Ransom Babcock, F. Z. Wikoff, G. S. Hawkins and John Taylor. The latter was assessor for over 30 years.

The Chicago, Burlington & Quincy passes through Sparta in a diagonal line from near the northeast to the southwest corner. In November 1894, the Galesburg, Etherely and Great Eastern Railroad was opened, running twelve miles east, to strike a great coal belt of some eighty-two sections, the center of which is Etherely, where the company placed a shaft costing $30,000. This company suspended railroad operations on September 7, 1895, but resumed December 7, 1897, under the name of the Galesburg and Great Eastern, with Edward J. Harms as manager.

Prairie fires in early days were beautiful to witness and oftentimes to be dreaded. At one time a fire which is said to have started at Red Oak in Henry county, threatened to devastate the farms of the new settlers, but warning Vv'as given those in the southwest part of the township by Maria, daughter of Luman Field, in time to avert the approaching catastrophe.

Sparta, both before and during the Civil War, contained quite a number of abolitionists, among them was Abram Neely, a conductor on the underground railroad. Some of the old citizens still remember his hiding fugitive slaves at his home and taking them a night's ride to the next station.

Wataga was platted in the Spring of 1854 by J. M. Holyoke, Silas Willard and Clark M. Carr, and was incoi-porated by a special act in 1863. The first village election was held September 19, 1863. In 1874 it was re-incorporated, under the general law, with Section 16 as the village territory. J. M. Holyoke was the first resident and postmaster, and also built the first store in conjunction with A. P. Cassel. This was operated by Willard and Babcock. The first bank in the place was started in 1863 by H. P. Wood. The depot was built in 1856, and in the same year the Wataga House was erected and operated by GaiTett Post for one year, when Loren Smith bought and conducted it for one year, and for years it was the property of C. H. Norton. The Wataga mill was built by William Armstrong in 1856, and soon afterwards was damaged by an explosion in which John Armstrong was seriously injured. George F. and David P. Niles, now extensive farmers and fine stock-raisers, bought the mill in May, 1867, and ran it very successfully for eight years, patrons coming long distances with their own wheat and receiving entire satisfaction. Among those who have since owned the mill are: William and M. O. Williamson, who introduced expensive modern machinery and Frank Darst, who also put in improvements and did excellent work.

The First Congregational Church was organized June 10, 1855, and the church society October 27, 1856. The church organization was led by the Rev. S. G. Wright. The first meeting was held in the depot, where the first sermon was preached. Subsequent services were held in the newly completed school house until 1860, when a substantial church, costing over $3,000, was erected, to which in 1876, a parsonage was added at a cost of $2,000. The original members were: A. P. Babcock, William S. Farnham, Mrs. Maria S. Farnham, Mrs. C. F. Farnsworth, Benjamin Gardner, Mrs. Abigail Gardner, Miss Sarah Gardner, Mrs. Minerva Holyoke, Charles W. Rhodes and Mrs. Jane Rhodes. Wm. S. Farnham served as deacon for 30 years. James Hastie also served as deacon until his demise in 1879 and was succeeded by Amos S. Fitch, the latter holding the office until his death in 1882. Among the secretaries of the society have been Hon. John Gray, of Jefferson Iowa; the late J. M. Holyoke and E. H. Goldsmith, the latter of whom held that office twenty-four years and was church clerk for thirty years. This church has had many pastors. Among those who have faithfully served in that capacity may be mentioned the Revs. Azariah Hyde, William W. Wetmore, Hiram P. Roberts, Prof. Willis J. Beecher, of Auburn (New York) Theological Seminary, and William R. Butcher, the last named serving six years. The Sunday school records show that on December 26, 1869, the membership was two hundred and the average attendance one hundred and forty-eight. John Hastie was the secretary and E. H. Goldsmith the superintendent, the latter holding that office for twenty-five years. The late George P. Holyoke and William M. Driggs, with their wives rendered valuable assistance in former years.

The Methodist Episcopal church was organized in 1856 by the Rev. William M. Clark, whose circuit consisted of Oneida, Wesley Chapel and Wataga. He made his journeys on foot. Mr. Clark gave the site of Gilson camp ground to this district. Arnong the early members were S. F. Spaulding, John Gaddis, B. W. Foster, Lucius Vail and S. G. Dean, with their wives. Mr. Dean was the first Sunday school superintendent, serving four years, and he was succeeded by S. F. Spaulding who, for nineteen years, gave his best services to the school. Among the pastors were: G. W. Brown, N. T. Allen, William Watson, D. Ayers, N. G. Clark, G. P. Snedaker and C. F. W. Smith. The church was completed and dedicated in 1867 under the pastorate of J. W. Coe, the presiding elder being W. H. Hunter,

The Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Church was organized in 1856, the first pastor being the Rev. T. N. Hasselquist. In 1860 the society commenced building a church, having formerly worshipped in private houses and school buildings. This church was struck by lightning and burned in 1875, but in the same year the present tasteful edifice was erected. The Rev. N. Nordgren, served this people many years.

The Swedish Methodist Episcopal Church was organized in 1857 with the Rev. V. Witting as the pastor. The keeping up of regular services and of the Sunday School was largely due to the untiring efforts of Oliver Stream.

The Order of the Eastern Star was organized February 22, 1888, and being the first chapter in the county it had many members from the surrounding towns, there being at one time seventy-four names on the roll. Other chapters were organized in every town from which this drew its followers.

Rebecca Lodge, No. 48 was organized October 20, 1891. The first officers were: John Deming; N. G. ; Mrs. Nancy Deming, C. G. ; Oliver Stream, Secretary.