Spring Lake Township

Spring Lake Township

The soil of this township is not unlike that of Cincinnati, and the history of its early settlement is similar. Joseph Otfutt erected a cabin on the border of Spring lake in 1839, and moved in the following year. The first school-house was built in 1849, on sec. 11, range 7, 23 north. Mr. Offutt was to the expense of getting the shingles and lumber for this house. The neighbors joined in and hauled the logs for this building. Daniel Hawkins was the first to wield the rod in this school-house, the same year. The children of all the settlers attended. The first sermon preached in the township was by a Mormon by the name of Woods. This meeting was held at the house of a man named Grover. Quite a number of the neighbors went to hear him, not knowing that he was a Mormon, and they were prejudiced against that people. Two weeks thereafter he preached by appointment again, but no one went to hear him. This finished his ministration here. Louis White tells, that when he settled here, he had but few neighbors, and no church nearer than Long Pine Church, but he had preaching in his house occasionally, both in English and German. The nearest mill was seventeen miles away ; they would start in the early morning with a load of corn and wheat, and get back the next morning. The first school in his neighborhood was held at what is now No. 4. The first teacher's name was Hoagland. This house was used for school, Suuday-school, preaching, town-meetings, and elections. The first regular Methodist meeting was began in this house, the preacher being Rev. Joseph Hart.

The first church organized was the Dutch Reformed Church in 1856. The first death was that of John Owen Offutt, Oct. 10, 1841. The first marriage was that of Chas. Seiwell to Deborah Claton, in 1842. Among the earliest settlers in the township were Valentine Haas, Chas. Seiwell, Maxon Claton, James Flemings, Daniel Devore, and the McLeashes and Hibbards. Mr. Christian Hermann bought a land warrant of an old veteran of the Mexican war, named John H. Banker, and settled on the land in 1851. It is the farm David W. Hermann now lives on. He tells us that this part of the county, to a great extent, was used as a public range for stock for many years after the first settlement of the county. The soil was then regarded as not desirable on account of its sandy nature, consequently, it was not settled as rapidly as some other portions of the county. There were other drawbacks besides the soil. There was no bridge across the Mackinaw, and the settlers had to depend upon the slow-going ferry of John Bequeaith, and when the water was high, it was . impossible to cross even on this. But as the people learned of the productiveness of the soil, it was rapidly settled. A good iron bridge has taken the place of the ferry. He also tells us that game was plentiful here. He has seen, within rifle-shot of where he now lives, twenty-five deer in one drove. Prairie wolves were numerous, and timber wolves were often seen. These would destroy pigs, calves, sheep, and other domestic animals.

of 150 trees, leaving but one standing. It destroyed corn-bins, barns, out-houses, carried off wagons, etc. It carried oiF a spring wagon which was never heard of afterwards ; destroyed fowls, many of which, when found, had no feathers on them at all, and were as clean as though they had been picked. Mr. Christian Hermann received an injury from a flying timber, from the eifects of which he never fully recovered. He was a large, portly man and healthy, and during the prevalence of the cholera at Pekin, he took upon himself the care of many a poor suiferer of that dreaded disease. He was fearless, and although constantly with it, did not catch it himself.

Terrible Tornado

The following account of the disastrous storm of May 26, 1859, as referred to above, is gleaned from a letter of Dr. C. C. Hodgland, of Spring Lake, to the Tazewell Register:

"We had a refreshing shower during the night of the 26th, and the early morning wrapped the hills in dense fog. About 9 o'clock rain began to fall which continueil at intervals till mid-day. About 4 o'clock our attention was attracted to a very dark and heavy cloud which arose out of the southwest, and soon began to show the shape and indications of a waterspout - from the dark cloud above the eart spiral tubes of vapor, varying and shifting in a circle, accompanied with vivid streaks of lightning ami heavy thunder in the distance. Soon the cloud advanced rapidly with a gyrating motion, appearing very grand and awful, but filling our minds with apprehension as it approached with the rapiclity of the wind. Rev. Mr. Brumstead's house is about a mile and a half from mine and it was doubtful whether the cloud was passing east of his house or over it ; but all doubt was dissipated in a moment more as the tornado struck his barn and smashed it in a moment, scattering the timbers and enclosures, and carrying them to great height in the air, whirling and tossing them as if they were feathers. A young man in the barn hearing the roaring ran out and was overturned at once, and rolled over and over thirty or forty yards before he could regain his feet. The farm wagon was taken next and dei)0sited, the fore wheels with the tongue, three hundred yards from where it stood, while the hind wheels were carried one hundred yards further. Then a small granary was crushed like an egg shell ; a tworowed corn planter was hurled fifty yards over the ruins of the granary and deposited against a shed in the yard which next shared the fate of the granary, anil the well-curb was lifted from its place and hurled against the house and broken in pieces. The kitchen was next in order, and instantly unroofed, the shingles flying in every direction and the fragments covering the i)rairie for hundreds of yards with cloth and household fui'niture. Trees were twisted down and flower gardens and shrubs made a desolation. The fence was broken thoroughly and then across the prairie the tornado marked its path with the ruins of fences and buildings. George B. VanNortwick's buildings were next in range. Here fences, outhouses, well-curb, boxes, barrels, stove furnitui-e and clothing were at once flying in very direction. The house-door was burst open, window panes and sash smashed in, and the south lialf of the roof torn bodily from its place and sent flying over the prairie. Mr. Hermann's fence was extensively torn up, an out-building demolished, and the house moved from its foundation several inches.

"It is wonderful that no lives were lost. The minister's four horses were in the barn, and were covered with the ruins, but Avere taken out uninjured. In his house he was struck by a falling rafter, but only slightly bruised. Mr. VanNortwick and his daughter, in trying to close the door, were thrown in violence across the room but only bruised."

From the earliest period of the county's history down to the present time, we find that the loss of life by accident has been most remarkably frequent. Scarcely a week has passed but some home has been darkened by the gloom cast over it by the loss of one of its inmates. One of the saddest of these painful accidents occurred in this township in October, 1865.

A party of young people embarked on a boating and fishing excursion on Spring lake, unfortunately, in an old leaky boat, which cost the lives of three young ladies. The party was composed of Joshua G. Claton, Silas McLean, the Misses Julia and Susan Van Bonthusen, and William Van Benthusen, of Bloomfield, Iowa, Miss Mary ]\Ioore, of same place. Miss Mattie King, and the Misses Amanda and Bina Claton,of Spring Lake. Happy and jovial were the party as they left the shore in their fated boat, but ere they had got sixty yards from shore it began to leak. It grew worse and worse rapidly and before anything could be done toward returning to the shore a hole was broken in the bottom of the boat and it filled immediately. McLean, becoming excited jumped out and swam ashore, but in doing so upset the boat, precipitating the entire party into the water. At this critical moment the presence of mind of Mr. Claton prevented the six young ladies from all going to a watery grave. He remained with them, directing them to hold on to the side of the boat. Three of them, with Willie, managed to retain their hold on the skiff, and Mr. Claton shoved the boat ashore and saved three. Although he made strenuous efforts to save the other three, they went doMai before he could rescue them. The unfortunate ladies were the Misses Van Benthusen and Miss Bina Claton. The sad catastrophe cast a gloom over the entire neighborhood, which remained for many a day, and even at present it is referred to only with sighs and tears by those who .were living there at that time. The grief-stricken parents of the young ladies, had their bodies removed to their home in Iowa, for interment.

Mr. Benj. Priddy, of this township, was the first to introduce the Osage orange hedge in the county. About the year 1846, when he was in Texas, where this tree grows in a wild state, he saw its qualities as a fence. It was there known as " boycdare." The timber is used for the purpose of manufacturing wagons, furniture, etc., where a fine-grained, tough timber is needed, being susceptible of very fine polish. Another peculiarity of the wood is, that it will neither swell or shrink. Mr. P. sent home seed to his friends, for them to experiment on its growing in this climate. Their trials proved eminently successful, and in 1852, when he came back to this county, he brought 500 bushels of the seed and introduced it generally. It is unnecessary to say anything of the usefulness of the Osage orange for fences, if properly cared for, or to the extent to which it is used, as it is so general, all of our readers are acquainted witli those facts.

This country, in an early day, was infested by bands of horsethieves, who were regularly and strongly organized. In these bands were some daring, reckless fellows, and an account of their exploits is exciting, even in detail. At the close of the career of these desperadoes a book was written recounting their adventures and detailing their crimes. This was called " The Banditti of the Prairie." Abraham Woods had an experience with a member of one of these bands in 1853. A very gentlemanly appearing man stopped at his house for dinner. He was sociable, agreeable in conversation, and, withal, a clever fellow. He claimed to have plenty of money, and said he was on his way to California. He left, and a few days thereafter again appeared and called for breakfast, remarking as he entered, "Treat a dog well and he is sure to return." He was such a fluent talker, so intelligent and agreeable, that Mr. W. was glad to see him. He soon left. Mr. W. observed that he had a sharp eye, which could not be caught for an instant. On coming to the house that morning he passed the barn and looked at two spans of fine horses, a gray and a bay team. He expressed much admiration for the grays, and made inquiries about their gentleness, &c. Mr. W. replied that they were his " darlings," and were perfect pets.

A week passed, when Mr. W. was awakened during the night by the running and whinnying of a horse, as if it had lost its mate. He sent his man out, telling him one of his horses was loose. He soon returned with two letters, one had been stuck up on the door, the other was found on the ground. He also reported one of the gray horses gone. One of the letters read as follows :

"Oh, avick! shurc and its meself that's trying to make a dacent outfit to go home to Sarah and the childer. As Col. Doniphan said in the Mexican war, I came across your ranche and made bowld to take into my sarvice two Illegant Gray travellers I found on your premises. I wunst thought of calling and telling yer Honor what I was after transacting. But thinking it would be to bad intirely to be Robbing a dacent gentlemon of his Darlings and sweet sleep at the same time I mean, I hope and trust your Darlings can travel Handsomely, for I shall be after putting them to their trumps, for a while at least, for it's no more than likely you'll be after sending the dirthy spalpeen of a constable after me. Bad cess to the likes of him, He'd be asking my name and other unconstitutional questions, for what does Will Shakspeare say,

"So you perceive that this settles the point at i.ssue. Perhaps you would be mighty well obliged should I tell you my name, place of Residence, and where I am from. AVell, yer honor, I am from every place but this, and shall be from this Just as quick as your Darling's legs can carry me. Now to conclude. Fare ye well, and still'forever fare ye well, Hoping your Darlings you'l see never, before I can them swap or sell. Acushla Mavourneen."

The above letter goes to show that the writer was undoubtedly the stranger who had been so hospitably received a few days before. As soon as this letter was read, and Mr. W. found his horse gone, he notified his neighbors. Soon a large number of his neighbors assembled and prepared for the chase, but ere they had fairly started the stolen horse returned. It was evident that the thief got alarmed before he had fairly started. He attempted to take both horses, but one had broken loose.

It was evident from the other letter found, that there was a regular systematic gang of horse-thieves running from here to Texas. It was in a sealed envelope, and was directed to Frederick Gamble, Galvaston, Texas, forwarded by Patrick Dougherty, and contained a promisory note for $220, on David C. Jones, of Texas. He states in this letter that, " Patrick and Jim have gone in the neighborhood of Pekin to make a raid on fine horses, which they would likely get away with, as Patrick was a good engineer, and knew the country. They would stop the first night with a friend on Salt creek, thence to W. Davis', near Carlinville, from there to Chester, where they knew the ferryman, who would take them across in the night, thence proceed with due dilligence to Texas." ^

The town of Spring Lake, which is located on sec. IG, 22 north, 7 west, was laid out May 15, 1862, by Thomas G. Conant. Hainesville is on the P., P. & J. Railroad, on sec. 2, 6 west, 22 north.

Spring Lake M. E. Church. - The church edifice is located on sec. 31, of town 24 north, and 6 west, and in size is 36 by 50 feet, with basement story. It is one of the largest and finest church structres located in the rural district, that Central Illinois can boast of. It was erected in 1872,- at a cost of $3,500. A class was organized in this neighborhood as long ago as thirty years. Meetings were held at school-houses and at private houses, until their building was erected. The first pastor after the completion of the duirch was Rev. Williams ; the present pastor is Rev. Boggess. The Trustees of the Church are Eli Haas, D. C. Orr, Abraham Woods, Lewis

AVhite, and Mr. Hammer. Abraham Woods is class leader; and Eli Hass, Jesse Scott, Abraham Woods, John B. Lowry, Edward Reader, and others, are Stewards. There is a good school in connection with the Church, of which Isaac Larish is Superintendent. The membership of the Church is about 40, which is also about the attendance at school.

Spring Garden Dutch Reformed Church. - This is an old well established congregation, being organized in 1856. As far back as twenty-six years ago, this people began to hold public religious services in this township. Some years thereafter a neat edifice for worship was erected on sec. 5, 23 north, and 6 west. It is a good frame, and although the congregation has no regular pastor at present, yet is in a good healthy condition. Rev. Gilmore was the last pastor.

We have occasion, in giving a more detailed history of the township, to speak personally of some of its leading and representative residents, among whom we find the persons named below :

Frank E. Adams is a native of West Haven, Vt., where he was born Aug. 15, 1852. His parents were Edward and Calista Adams ; the Adams are lenial descendents of the Pilgrims. They came to America about tw^o years after the "May Flower" landed. Mr. Frank Adams, the subject of this sketch, took a scientific course of studies at Ft. Edwards, N. Y. He follows the occupation of school teaching ; he has taught five school years of nine months each. He was united in marriage. May 10, 1876, to Miss Mary G. Emens, a native of Dayton, Middlesex Co., N. J. She is a daughter of Abraham Emens and Anna Van Arsdale, his wife, natives of Middlesex and Hunterton Cos., N. J. They came to this county, April 26, 1866, and settled in Pekin, but now live in Spring Lake township. Mr. A. is connected with the Reform Church of America. In politics, is a Republican. Post-office, Manito.

John Barnes was born in Fulton Co., 111., in 1835. His parents, John and Susan (Chandler) Barnes, natives of Kentucky, died in Mason Co. His father died in 1843, his mother in 1853. The subject of this sketch was first married to Charity Ide, of New York. She died in 1863, having one child, William Barnes. In 1868, Mr. B., was again married, this time to Ellen Lawson, of Sangamon Co., 111. Mr. Barnes, memory carries him back to the times when wolves were very numerous through this part of the State. They became very bold, even so daring as to chase a small dog through the house. Mr. B. was in the war of the Rebellion. He enlisted in Feb., 1865, in 148th 111. infantry, under Col. H. H. Wilsie. He was in Co. C, and served till the close of the war. Post-office, Pretty man.

Mrs.Ann. C.Haas Ezli Haas History Of Tazewell, County

Harman Henri/ Beimfohr. John Henry and Mary (Hokanip) Beimfohr were his parents. H. H. was born in Minclen, Prussia, Oct. 30, 1842; was educated in the schools of his native country. He has held tlie office of School Director. ^Ir. B. was united in marriao:e, April 2, 1808, to Miss Mary Ann Bortzfield, a daui^hter of William and Catherine (Musseliyan) Bortzfield. They were natives of Penn. Mr. B. is now living in Osborn, Kansas. Mrs. B. died in 1859. The children of Mr. Beimfohr are,-Mjiry^nn Catherine, born Oct. 22, 1869; Fanny Wilhelmina, born Augr 2^), '71; William H., Dec. 9, '72'r Mary Magdalena, May 28,^ '75; Lucy Wilhelmina, born March 2, '77, died Sept. 21, ,78. Mrs.JB. is a member of the Evangelical Church. Mr. B. acts with the Democratic party. P. O., address, Prettyman.

John Bernhcvd Beimfohr was born in Minden, Prussia, in 1836. His parents were John Henry and Mary (Hokamp) Beimfohr. John B. came to this county in 1854; was educated in the schools of his native country. He is a farmer ; in politics is a Democrat He was united in matrimony in Oct., 1856, to Mary Wilhelmina Baker. They have been blessed with six children - August, born Oct. 27, '54;" Mary Ann, born Dec. 25, '61; Martha Theresa, Nov. 19, '65; Emily, July 29, '68; John Harmon Henry, Feb. 5, '72; George Frederick, March 21, '77. Mr. and Mrs. B. both united with the Evangelical Church in 1867. Post-office, Prettyman.

David P. Black was born in Blair Co., Penn., in 1842. His parents, George and Rebecca (Mauly) Black, were both natives of the same county. He came to this county in 1858; received his education at Green Valley, this county, and has been generally successful in business. He was joined in marriage with Somantha H. Marshall, in 1865. They have one girl - Annie Laura, born in August, 1866. He enlisted, in 1862, in the 85th 111. Inf , and served as musician. He was in the battles of Perrysville, Stone River, INIission Ridge, Atlanta, Jonesboro', and all the battles of Sherman's army on its march to Savannah. Post-office, Manito.

WiJIiam Ira Callaway, farmer, was born in C-ampbell Co., Va., in 1826. He came to the county in 1851, and to the State, with his parents, Isaiah and licttice Callaway, in 1836. He had only a common school education ; has served as Justice of the Peace, School Trustee and School Director. In 1851 he married Ruth A. Lowry, who died April 1,1878. She bore him six children - Siralda S., Sarah B(41, Rhoda J., Louis F., Henry M. and Fannie A." Three of these are married and live in this township, not three miles from the parental roof Siralda, w^fe of Wm. McFarland, is living about two miles away, while Rhoda and Sarah, wives of Isaac Schinick and John McFarland, respectively, live but a short distance from their father. His present wife, Catharine Sherrer, he married Nov. 10, 1878. Mr. C. has been a member of the M. E. Church for 13 years. Post-office, ^lanito.

range 6 ; was born in Shelby Co., Ind., in 1844. His parents, James and Sarah Ann (Guile) Claton, were both natives of Ohio. Mr. Claton was educated in the common schools of Iowa. He came to this county in 1865. In 1870 he married Sarah E, Vanorstrand, who has borne him two children - Thomas A., born Dec. 28, 1870, and Cora, born Oct. 23, 1872. Post-office, Prettyman.

llrs. Margaret Claton. - One of the earliest settlers of the township is Mrs. Margaret Claton, who, at this writing, April 13, 1879, is just 86 years old. She is a native of Georgia. Her parents, John and Anna (Davidson) Gaston, moved to Virginia before she was two years old, and subsequently to Ohio. While living in that State, and on July 4, 1812, she was married to Maxon Claton. They came to this county in 1836, locating in Sand Prairie, and in 1838 moved on the farm where she now lives. Her husband died Aug. 17, 1839. Mrs. Claton had a family of ten children, only one of whom is now living. For an old lady, nearly four score and ten, she is remarkably quick and smart, and has a good memory. To hear her relate her experiences in early times, is almost like reading a thrilling romance of border life. At one time all her fences and her wheat crop was burned by the prairie fire. She hired a man, during an early day, for two years, at $50 a year and board and clothes. She was to give him 12 yards 4-leaf jeans, 9 yards of cotton flannel, 4 cotton shirts, 2 pair cotton socks, 1 pair of boots, and 1 pair shoes, and a hat. She had all these articles specfied in the agreement.

Frank F. Deyo is a son of John P. Deyo and Sarah Ann Forester, his wife, natives of New York. Frank F. Deyo, the subject of this sketch, was born in Erie county, Ohio, 1847. He received his education at Milan Xormal School, Ohio. Mr. D. came to Tazewell county in September, 1869; by occupation is a farmer and teacher; has taught for the past fifteen years. He resides on sec. 15; postoffice, Pekin. He was united in marriage, Dec. 28, 1871, to Miss Irene Claton. She is the daughter of Jno. Claton and Elizabeth Ann Hawkins, his wife; they came to this county in 1835. Mr. Claton's portrait may be found in his book. Mr. and Mrs. Deyo have two children - Eunice Anna, born Nov. 25, 1873; and Palmer Claton, born Nov. 16, 1878. Mr. and Mrs. D. both united with the Methodist Church in 1874. In politics Mr. D. acts with the Democratic party.

Abraham Gorman is a native of Lehigh county, Penn., where he was born in 1823. His parents were Abraham and Elizabeth Gorman. Mr. G. was educated in the schools of his native State. He came to this county in 1855; and was united in marriage to Mary Hensinger, a native of Pennsylvania, in 1849; they are parents of - Benjamin F., Abraham, John M., Wm. L., Emery G., Elizabeth C, Mary F., and Sarah Bell. Mr. G. acts with the Democratic party. Post-office, Manito.

he was boru Oct. 5, 1807. His parents, David and Deborah (Wilson) Golden, were natives of New Jersey. Mr. G.'s grandfather came from Holland. The subject of this sketch came to Fulton county, this State, and after residing there three years he removed to this county in tlie year 1853. Ho received his education in his native State; by occupation he is a farmer. Mr. G. was united in the holy bonds of matrimony to Miss Eliza B. Dallas. This marriage has been blessed with six children, five of whom arc living - Joanna, born Dec. 17, '30; Ephriam D., born March 4, '32; Franklin L., boru Dec. 12, '35; Jane E., born Aug. 11, '37; Rebecca, born Aug. 4, '39, deceased ; Sarah, born Sept. 30, '43. Mrs. Golden is a member of the Dutch Reformed Church. Mr. G. has lived a long and useful life, and is beloved and respected by all who know him and a is representatives of Spring Lake. His portrait, with that of his wife, will be found in this volume.

Ephriam D. Golden, a native of New Jersey, came to this county with his parents, in 1850, and is engaged in farming in this township. His education was obtained in the common schools of New Jersey. Mr. Golden was married to Lydia R. Van Deuscn, of New York. They have four children - John W., born Nov. 18, 1863; Reuben S., born May 13, 1865; Emma May, born Nov. 3, 1869; Rebecca H., born Aug. 15, 1871. Mr. Golden and his wife are both members of the Reformed Church of America, and have been for fifteen or sixteen years. He has held the positions of Road Commissioner and School Trustee in his township. Post-office address is Manito.

Eli Haas. This gentleman is certainly one of the representative men of the county, and an extensive farmer, owning 2,000 acres of land. He came here with his father in 1839, and at that time was the possessor of a very limited amount of this world's goods. The simple statement of his owning, at present, thousands of acres of land, is the best evidence of a well-sj)ent life. He was born in Union Co., Pa., Sept. 13, 1817. His father was born in Montgomery county of that State. He died here in 1852 at the age of 69. His mother, Mary Magdalene (Mauck) Haas, was also a native of the grand old Key-stone State. She passed over the Jordan of Death, Jan. 6, 1876, being at that time almost ninety years of age. The marriage of Mr. Haas with Miss Ann Catherine Orr, took place March 2, 1853. They have one son, Edward S., who was born Dec. 2, 1864. Both Mr. and Mrs. Haas are consistent and active members of the Methodist Church. He has held the office of School Director for some sixteen years. We give his portrait, with that of his wife and son, in this volume. He resides upon sec. 30, upon which section he has lived since his advent into the county. Post-office, Manito.

Joseph F. Haines, grain dealer and farmer, is one of the oldest residents of Tazewell county. He was born in Jiutler Co., O., and came to the county with his parents, William and Elizabeth (Wil- son) Haines, also natives of Ohio, in the year, 1828. In Feb., 1865, he enlisted in the 148th 111. Inf., under Col. Wilsie. Mr. Haines was joined in marriage with Emeline Lance in 1844. Their children are William C, born in 1848, and Maggie May, born in 1863. William Haines, the father of the subject of this sketch, on coming to this county, located first at Pekin, and was one of the original proprietors. He died in that city in 1834, with the cholera. He owned, at the time of his death, all the lots fronting north on Court street, save two, of the original town of Pekin. INIr. H. relates that Pekin wa:s first called " Town Site." The name " Pekin " was given by a Mrs. Cromwell, a wife of one of the proprietors, who, doubtless foreseeing its brilliant future, gave it its illustrious name. Mr. Haines, Sr., left a family of five children at his death, whose names were, Sarah Ann, now the wife of B. S. Prettyman of Pekin ; Elizabeth Jane, many years deceased ; INIartha Ellen, who married John Gorage, of Ottumwa, Iowa, and died about the year 1872 or '73. One of her sons is now running a paper in the Black Hills; Caroline Matilda, who married John M. Hedrick, of Ottumwa, Iowa, and is still living ; the next, Mr. Joseph F. Haines, the subject of this sketch, is now living at Hainesville, a station on the P., P. & J. P. P., which derives its name from him, he being the first settler, and built the first house at that place in 1860. The house is now owned by B. S. Prettyman, and occupied by Mr. Benjamin Priddy. Post-office, Prettyman.

Samuel C. Hammer was Ijorn in Franklin Co., Pa., in 1824. His parents, Jacob and Priscilla (Eyler) Hammer, were natives of Maryland. Mr. H. came to Tazewell county in 1855. He learned the trade of shoe-making and followed that business for ten years, but for many years has been engaged in farming. In 1846 he was married to Ann Elizabeth Working, a native of Maryland, The union has been blessed with five sons and four daughters : Frances Virginia, Lewis Cass, John Winton, Elizabeth H., Emma, Alvin Davis, Clara, William Pufus and Johnson. He is a member of the M. E. Church. In politics he is a Democrat. John G. Hammer, brother of Samuel, is a veteran of the - Mexican war and is now living in Pekin. He enlisted in Capt. Jones' company, and served about a year. He participated in the engagements of Vera Cruz, Cerro Gordo, Puebh). He first settled at Springfield, then came to Pekin to build a mill for Mr. Wagenseller, and has since lived there.

Samuel Hammer, like many of the early settlers, thought the best locations were by the streams and timber, and let thousands of acres of fine prairie land go for others to occupy, thinking it would never be settled.

Leivis Franklin Harbaugh was born in Franklin Co., ]\Id., in 1837. His parents, John and Margaret Harbaugh, were also natives of the same county. Mr. H. came to this county in 1865, and is engaged in agricultural pursuits in this township, owning over 300 acres of land. He was married to Mary J. VanOstrand, April 2, 1873, who has borne him two children, Frank Leslie, born Jan. 18, 1874, and Charles Dana, born Dec. 2(3, '75. Mrs. H. is a member of the American Reformed Clinrch. Mr. H's ancestry was of Swiss descent. Yost Harbangh, of whom the sudject of this sketch is a lineal descendent, came to this country in 1736 or '38, and settled in York Co., Penn.

David WdUnyton- Herrmann wa>' born in Wayne Co., N. Y., in 1846. His parents, Christian and Barbara (Lux) Herrmann, were natives of Germany. He was married to ]\Ienni Hanns, of Prussia, in 1869. They liave four children: Lilly, born Feb. 18, 1871; Irene, May 20,' 1872 ; Albert, Sept. 24, 1874 and Carlina May, Feb. 7, 1879. Mrs. Herrman's parents were Christian and Frederick (Dietrich), Prussians. Her father died in that country. Her mothcT CJirae to this country in 1868, bringing Mrs. H. with her, and located at Bloomington, 111., where she still resides. Mrs. H. is a member of the Kvangelical Lutheran Church. Christian Herrmann's family consisted of six children : David W., Caroline, Jemima, Louisa, Catharine, Rosena. Mr. H. has held the office of Justice of the Peace, Road Commissioner and School Director. Post-office, Prettvman.

Jacob Kei/ser. INIr. Keyser ' is one of the early settlers of this county, having settled in this townshi]) in 1833. Mr. K. is a son of Phili]) and Elizabeth (Flower) Keyser. Jacob Keyser was united in marriage, in 1847, to Miss Hannah Wood. They are the parents of - Minerva, born June, 1848; William T., born June 9, 1850; Jacob F., born May 14, 1852; Sarah Jane, Sept. 7, 1854; Louis E., March 22, 1857. When Mr. K. first settled on S])ring Lake prairie, they lived on what they raised, and made the cloth at home to clothe the family. Their friends were every one for twenty miles around; their fresh meat consisted of venison and other wild game. ]\Ir. K.'s house at that time was headquarters for religious meetings. In politics ]\rr. K. is a Republican. Post-office, Pekin.

Jo/in B. Loirri/ is a native of Jefferson Co., O., and a son of William and ]\Iartha Ann (McCoy) Lowry, natives of the above State. John B. attended the schools of Clark and Tazewell counties; by occupation a farmer. Post-office, Pekin. He has filled several local offices with perfect satisfaction to all. Mr. L. was united in marriage to Sarah C. Claton, in 1862. The fruits of this marriage are four boys, as follows : William E., born Nov. 14, 1863 ; John C, born March 18, 1867; James M., born March 13, 1869; George M., born iSIay 15, 1874. Mr. and Mrs. Lowry are both members of the Methodist Church.

Joshua Marshall is a native of the State of Va., where he was born in the year 1814. He is a son of Joshua and Sarah (Hayne) Marshall. The subject of this sketch settled in this county in 1862. Mr. M. has been very successful, financially, since he came to this county ; has filled several local offices. He came to Kankakee Co., this State, in 1846. He was not very successful there. He commenced in the hotel business in Kankakee, havino; l)uilt a new hotel. He was burned out in 1857, which caused almost a total loss of $6,000. After coming to this county, everything turned the other way, and in the year 1867, he sold $6,200 worth of produce off his farm. Was united in marriage, in March, 1838, to Miss Drusella Rakestraw. They are the parents of - Samantha Black, John A., Horace S., Allen J. and Henry H. Post-office, Manito.

Allen J. Marshall was born in Kankakee Co., 111. He is a son of Joshua and Drusella Marshall, and received his education in the jniblic schools. His political views are those of the Republican party. He was joined in matrimony, in 1876, to Miss Anna R. Patterson. His post-office address is Manito.

Henry H. Marshall is a son of Joshua and Drusella Marshall, and was born in Kankakee Co., this State, in 1852. He came to Taze- Avell county with his parents in 1862, received his education in this county, and is, by occupation, a farmer. He was married Oct. 6, 1875. In politics he is a Republican. Post-office, Manito.

Horace 8. Marshall is a native of Kankakee Co., 111., where he was born in 1848. He is a son of Joshua Marshall. Horace was educated in the schools both of this and his native county. He is an extensive farmer, owning 1000 acres of land, and is also a dealer in grain. Mr. M. was united in marriage, in 1871, to Miss Mary Haas. In political matters he acts with the Republican party. His post-office address is Manito.

David K. Moore was born in Fleming Co., Ky., in 1815. His parents were Jacob Moore and Rebecca Paddicks, his Avife, who were natives of Kentucky. David K. came to this county in 1857. During the war for the Union he enlisted in the 38th Regt. 111. Inf., and was engaged in many important battles, among which were the Battles of Corinth, Miss., and Perrysville, Ky. Mr. Moore's health gave way after two years of service, from which he has never entirely recovered. He was married to Miss Fanny Mcintosh in '45. They have been the parents of ten children, named as follows : Louisa C, Thomas J., Clarinda, deceased, Sarah J., deceased, James W., Mary Isabel, deceased, Rhoda, deceased, Hannah E., deceased, Fanny Belle, and Jacob R.

Edward Purdy was born in the county of Westmead, Ireland, in 1831. His parents were Thomas and Catherine (Hosey) Purdy. He came to New York in 1846 and to this county in 1857. In '60 he united with Elizabeth Jane Ballard, of Allen Co., Mo., in marriage. Her parents were Anderson S. and Susan (Archer) Ballard. He is the parent of nine children, six of whom are living. The names and dates of birth of his children arc as follows : Catherine Ann, born Nov. 5, 1860; Susan Jane, Sept. 7, 1864; Mary Ellen, Feb. 26, 1866; Emma Viola, Feb. 16, 1868; James Edward, Sept. 30, 1830; Sarah Cordelia, March 5th, 1872; Frans A., Jan. 5, '75; John William, March 25, '76; Florence L., Oct. 28, '78. Oath-

History Of Tazeweij. County

Benjiuain Pviddy, grain dealer at Hainesville, was horn in Kanawha Co., W. Va., in 1821. His father, Nelson Priddy, was a native of Virginia, and his mother, Leah (Morris) Priddy, was born in West Virginia. Mr. Priddy's introduction into Tazewell county was over half a century ago, when he was a lad of but eight summers. His parents first settled on sec. 10, Sand Prairie township, and spent the remainder of their earth-life there. His mother died in 1833, and his father in 1844. This couple reared a large family of children, only three of whom are now living. Their children were Strawther, Sclden, Elgin, Morris, Charles, Benjamin, Sybil, Leah, Nelson and Frances. They all lived to maturity except Elgin, who died at the age of 13 or 14. Two of the boys, Selden and Charles, served in the Mexican war. The company they were in was raised in Pekin by Ca]itain Jones. They were in the battles of Buena Arista, Vera Cruz, and other engagements. Their company was the one which captured Santa Anna's wooden leg. Selden lived but a short time after his return home. Charles lived till '78, when he died. Sybil, the wife of H. H. Elmore, and Frances, the wife of Thomas Baker, are now living in Sangamon county. Their husbands are early settlers of that county and are in good circumstances. Benjamin was married to Harriet A. Prettyman in 1844, who has borne him three children - Louis P., born in 1848; Chas. C, born in 1851, and Benjamin F., born in 1857.

James Fredon, farmer and stock raiser, is a son of James and Sarah (Cohenour) Preston, who resided in this county about one year, when, in 1846, he moved to Iowa with his family, where he died in the fall of 1866, leaving a wife and five children. His wife has since followed him over the river of death. James Preston, the subject of this sketch, returned to this county in the fall of 1868, and still resides on sec. 23. Mr. P. takes a great interest in educational matters ; has held the office of School Director for twelve years. He has been quite successful in life, having accumulated considerable property by industry and close attention to business. He was united in marriage, in 1861, to Adaline Avery, a native of New York. They are the parents of six children - Martha Jane, born Aug. 24, 1862; Ella L., April 10, 1864; Walter G., Sept. 8, 1866; Leonard L., Aug. 28, 1868; Norah B., Sept. 10, 1870; Edgar W., Feb. 17, 1874. In politics is a Democrat.

Jesse Wilson Scott is a native of Scott county, Ky., where he was born March 15, 1837. Thomas and Elizabeth Scott were his parents. Jesse Wilson Scott came to this county, in 1843, with his parents. He received his education at Pekin. When our country called for men, Mr. S. was among the first to respond ; he enlisted, July 5, 1861, in the 8th regt. 111. vol., Co. F, and served till May, 1866. He took part in many a hard fought battle, among them were Ft. Donelson, Shiloh, and Vicksburg. On several occasions he has had balls pass through his clothing, but was never seriously injured, beyond mere scratches, until the last battle he was in, at Ft. Blakely, Alabama, where he received a severe wound in the right shoulder, braking the bone. His hearing was also affected by heavy artillery at Vicksburg. Mr. S. was united in marriage, in Dec, 1866, to Margaret Fleming. They have one son - William Edwin, born Dec. 6, 1867. They are both members of the Methodist Church. Post-office, Pekin.

F. 11. Heiivcll was born in Spring Lake township, this county, in 1841. His parents were Charles and Deborah (Claton) Seiwell. F. E,. received his education in the school of this township, and at Pekin. Mr. S. is a farmer by occupation. He Avas united in marriage, in 1868, to Miss Frances C. Kuly. She is a daughter of Hiram and Mary (Mowrery) Kuly, who were natives of Philadelphia, Pa. They moved to this county in 1854, and are now living at Manito, Mason county. Mr. and Mrs. Seiwell are the parents of - Charles Edward, born July 10, 1869; and Annie May, born June 26, 1874. Politically Mr. S. is a Democrat. Post-office, Pekin.

Mrs. Catharine Seiwell (Westspher) was born near Harrisburg, Penn. Her parents were George and Mary E. (Myers) Westspher. Mrs. Seiwell came to this county about the year 1849. She was married to Charles Seiwell in 1855; they had four children - Deborah, Hauorah, Almira, and Catharine. Mrs. S. is a consistent member of the Methodist Church. Her post-office address is Pekin.

Stephen ShanhoHzer, farmer, was born in Hampshire county, Va., March 17, 1819. Plis parents, Philip and Zilpha (Queen) Shauholtzer, were also natives of Virginia ; his father of German parentage, and his mother of Irish. Mr. S. came West to Ohio in 1859, in 1864 to Illinois. In 1838 he married Hannah II. William, a native of Hampshire county, Va. They have had twelve children borne unto them, eight of whom are now living. The names and dates of birth of their children, are as follows : Sarah Ellen, born Nov. 16, '38; Zilpha Jane, Feb. 29, '40; Jacob N., Nov. 7, '41; William Jasper, April 11, '43; Chloe E., Jan. 4, '46; Hannah M., Sept. 25, '48; Philip M., Sept. 18, '51 ; James W., Nov. 30, '53 ; Virginia F., Jan. 17, '56; Albert D., April 19, '59; Geo. R., Sept. 6, '61 ; and Ida B., Nov. 12, '64. AVilliam, Philip, James, and George are dead. Post-office, Prettyman.

Louis White. This gentleman was born near Reading, Berks Co., Penn., Dec. 9, 1809. He is the son of Louis White and Susan (Crouse) White, both of whom are natives of the above county, and their ancestors took part in the Revolutionary war. Mr. White received a liberal education. He holds the office of School Director at present, and has for fifteen years past. He was united in marriage, Oct. 20, 1833, to Miss Catharine Keyser, a native of Penn. She was born Sept. 26, 1811. Her father, Philip Keyser, was a native Russian, and her mother, Elizabeth Flower, of Penn. Mrs. White was the mother of - Mary E., deceased ; Catharine, deceased ;

William H. ; Martin Luther, deceased ; Jonathan Franklin, deceased ; Louis Wesley, Lydia Ann, deceased. Mr. and Mrs. White were united with the Methodist Church some 27 years ago ; they have lived a long and consistent Christian life. Mr. W. was an old-time Whig until the formation of the Republican party, with which he has since acted. His post-office address is Prettyman.

Abraham Woods. This gentleman was born in the city of York, England, in the year 1818. He is a son of Abraham and Jane (Masey) Woods. Mr. W. left his native country and came to America, arriving in Greene Co., this State, in 1831. He came to this county in 1850, and is one of the prosperous farxners. He is the owner of 524 acres of land. His success is wholly due to his own efforts. He was united in marriage, in 1853, to Elizabeth Woorfoot. She died in 18G1. He was again married in 1863, to Harriet M. Adams. Mr. W. is the father of the following ch ildren : Maria J., born in Sept., 1854. She married the Rev. R. B. Williams, and now resides in McLean Co.; George A., born in Dec, 1856; John L, born March 28, 1858; Mary E., born July 15, 1860; James Lincoln, born April 14, 1865; Clarissa E., born Jan. 11, 1867. Mr. W. has been a member of the Methodist Church for upwards of 45 years, and Mrs. Woods since 1861.^ Mr. W. acts with the Republican party in politics; his post-office address is Manito. The reader will find portraits, in this volume, of INIr. and Mrs. Woods.

Edwin A. VanDeiisen was born in Greenport, Columbia county, N. Y., March 15, 1832. His parents were James and Eve (DcLamater) VanDeusen. His parents came to this county in 1856.

Jacob VaiiDcum is a son of James A'anDeusen and Eve DeLamater, his wife. Jacob was born in Columbia Co., N. Y., in 1835. He received an academic education at Charlotteville, N. Y. He has filled several local offices. Mr. VanDeusen was united by marriage, in Feb., 1863, to Elmina King; they have had one child, a daughter, Eva May, who was born Aug. 15, 1864. Mr. and Mrs. Van- Deusen are both members of the Reformed Church of America. In politics he is a Republican. Post-office, Manito.

Charles Gregory VanOrstrand. This gentleman's jjarents, Christopher and Mary Ann VanOrstrand, came to 111. in 1839, taking up his residence at Whitehall, Greene Co., where he carried on blacksmithing and wagon-making for twelve years, when he moved to this county and township in 1851. Their children, four in number, now live in this township. Their names are Sarah Elizabeth (Claton) ; John Oliver, living on the old homestead ; Mary Jane (Harbaugh), and Charles Gregory, whose name is at the head of this sketch. His father, J. C, departed this life March 9, 1868. His mother, Mary Ann, died March 9, 1866. Charles G. was born in Greene Co., this State, in 1844: was married to Mary M. VanDeusen in 1868. They have two children - Charles Edwin, born Feb. 8, 1870; and Catharine, Sept. 20, 1872. P. C, Pekin.

The following gentlemen have served the township in the various official capacities named. The years of serving are given, and where more than one date is set opposite a name, covering a period of years, the official served during the intervening years.