St. Albans Township

St. Albans Township

Centrally on the south line of the comity lie.s St. Alban's - numbered 3 north, 7 west. This township is pretty nearly equally divided between woodland and prairie, - the former predominating in the west half, and the prairie over the east half. It contains many fine farms and much good farming land, and considerable blutf and broken woodland. This last is to be found on the borders of the Bear creek branches. Its two towns are -

Among the early settlers of the county, and who were here precedent to organization, we have the names of John Harding, and Robert and Aaron (Abel) Harding, who are sui:)posed to have been his brothers or more distant relatives. John Harding transferred his claim, lying due west of and adjoining the village of Chili, to Elisha Worrell, Esq., in 1S35, having occupied it for seven years. Through Mr. Worrell we have the statement that this same claim - north half of section 25, St. Alban's township - had been owned and occupied since 1S23, by Col. Daniel B. Whipple, late of Adams county, at a date when his nearest neighbors were Fort Edwards, Rushville and Quinc}-. If so. Col. Whipple must have been one among the very earliest settlers in Hancock county - indeed, t/ie earliest of whom we have any account, if we except the officers and people at the fort. Col. W. and his uncle, Barnabas B. Whipple, were the patentees of the claim, having been in service in the war of 1S12-'14, with Great Britain.

Among the other early settlers of this township were Garrett Beau and his brother-in-law, Mr. Mills, wlio came to where Mr. B. now resides in 1S36. [For a very interesting narrative of Mr. Bean, see another chapter.] He resides below Stillwell on the county line. Mr. Mills moved to Missouri over 30 years ago. and is now deceased. Other pioneers were, Jonathan Todd, Wm. Pike, Jesse Richai-dson, Dr. Cook, N'oah Stokes, John Slater, Wm. Bride, Benoin C. Bride, Truman Kinney, Joseph Kinney, James E. Moore, Wm. Owen, Eldridge Renshaw, C. W. Hicks, Alexander McDonald, David Wigle, Bradley Hecox, James Knott.

Religious Pe0Gre5S

preached in ])rivate houses as early as 1S37 or '3S. The new towns of West Point and Stillwell each have churches, data concerning which we have been unable to obtain.

Personal Sketches

In connection with the foregoing historical sketch we give brief biographies of the old settlers and prominent persons of the township. They will be found to form an interesting feature of tliis volume.

Garrett Bean was born in Kentucky in 1807. At the age of 20 he emigrated to Pike county, 111., where he lived one year, then to G-alena, III., for a short time, and then to Quincy, 111., where he worked one winter for John Wood, afterward Governor of Illinois, for whom Mr. B. made 4,000 rails and 2,000 shingles. After living in Adams county one year, Mr. B., in 1S36, came to Hancock county, 111., and located in St. Albans tp., on the farm where he now lives. Although placed in the wilderness with nothing excepting willing hands and a noble wife, he has accumulated a handsome fortune. He has a farm of 3-16 acres of good timber and prairie land.

He was married in 1S31 to Miss Nancy Crow, of Adams county, 111., and 4 boys and 4 girls were born to this union, - Sarah E., William, John, Martha, Mary A. and Henrj' are those that are living. Mr. B. lias held the office of School Trustee and is a member of the Methodist Church.

Jesse TP! Brown, miller at Stillwell, is a native of the Buckeye State and was born in 1S47. His father was Isaac C, native of Ohio and born in 1809. His mother was Rachel Hurt, who was born in Vermont in 1801. Jesse W. remained with his parents till 1864, when he enlisted at Camp Butler in tlie 32d 111. Inft., under Col. Logan. He did his tirst fighting at Kingston, Georgia, where he got hurt and was not able to do any more active service. After returning home he was at Chili, then he went to Burlington, Iowa, where he was engaged in the shingle factory for a short time; then he worked for the C.,B. & Q. bridge contractors, and helped build their bridge over the Mississippi river, and then he returned to Chili; tlien acted as foreman over a company of men who were engaged in moving houses for the railroad company. He next was engineer at the mills at Stillwell, 111., for 2^ 3'ears, then in the same business at La Harpe, 111., and has been in the milling business at Stillwell sii^ice 1874. He is a Freemason, being a member of Dills Lodge, No. 295; is also a Methodist and a. Republican.

N. R. Butler, farmer, was born in Kentucky in 1827. His father, Hezekiah Butler, was a native of Maryland, and was born in 1799; his mother, Margarette, nee Payne, was born in ISOS. At the age of 24 he was married to Apphia Seaton, who was a native of Kentucky, and died in 1864. There were 3 children bj- this union. Mr. Butler came to his present farm in 1852, and has lived there ever since. He owns a farm of 190 acres of land, valued at

$40 per acre. Mr. B. takes unusual interest in his family, neatness and thrift being manifested in all the surroundinsjs. In educational matters Mr. B. takes great interest in giving his own children the benefits of schools, and also in advancing the interests of education in any way that he possibly can. He was married a second time, to Hannah Clark, of Hancock county, 111., in 1S67, and their 2 children are Frank and George F.

Henry <7fa?'^, farmer, sec. 5; P. O., West Point; was born in 1S23, in ]^ew York, His father, Calvin Clark, was a native also of New York, and was born in 1799; was weigh-master in the war of 1813, at Sacket's Harbor. His mother's maiden name was Fannie Searles, and she was born in Bennington, Yt., in 1804, and died in 1835. Grandfather Searles was born in 1764. in Rhode Island. His grandmother Searles was born in 1766 in Rhode Island. Mr. C. lived with his parents until 18 years of age, then lived in Oneida county for the next two years, then emigrated to Wisconsin, remaining till 1858, when he came to Hancock county. 111., and moved into the same house where he now lives. Before locating on this farm Mr. Clark spent several years clerking in stores. He owns 120 acres of land, most of which is improved. In 1848 he married Gertrude M. Striker (since deceased), who bore him 2 children. He married his second wife in 1860, Abby B. Striker, a sister of his former wife, a native of JTew York, and born in 1825. Of the 2 children bj' this union Ruth E. is living. Mr. C. has been associated with many Indian tribes in his early history with the West, and can speak several Indian languages. He is a Democrat.

Dr. V. B. Corey, West Point, was born June 3, 1S2S, in Penn Yan, Yates county, N. Y. ; his parents were Joseph A. and Mercy (Andrews) Corey, natives of Rhode Island. The grandparents descent. The parents of Mercy Andrews were Samuel and Waty (Briggs) Andrews, of Providence, R. I., and of Euglisii ancestry. The subject of this notice left home at the age of 14; learned the blacksmith's trade, whicli he followed until 22, but at the age of 20 he commenced the study of medicine, having the use of the library of Dr. Andrew F. Oliver. In 1854 he came West, visited several States, and located first at Quincy, 111., where he read medicine in the ofSce of Dr. John Parson for two years, when he came and settled at West Point, this county, and established himself in a good practice. Being a strong Republican and a [Tnion man, he enlisted Aug. 28, 1862, as a private in Co. C. 118th 111. Vol. Inf , to serve three years; the regiment was organized at Camp Butler, Springfield, 111., and the Doctor was appointed Hospital Steward of the regiment; May 16, 1863, at the battle of Chamjiion Hills, Miss., he was detailed to act as Assistant Surgeon, which position he continued to hold until the regiment was mustered out in October, 1865. The Doctor was in the battle of Chickasaw Bluff, Miss., Dec, 1862, and the engagements at Arkansas Post, Jan. 11, 1S63; the regiment was then in camp at Young's Point, La., until

March 9 next, when it was moved to Milliken's Bend, and April 2 it was ordered to the rear of Vicksburs;, in the siege of which it participated, nuder Gen. Grant. May 1 they met the enemy at Port Gibson, then at Champion Hills; but previous to the last the Doctor had been sent back to the hospital at Raymond, Miss. At this place he was taken prisoner, but paroled, and afterwards returned to the regiment as Assistant Surgeon, at Black River Bridge, in the rear of Vicksburg. The regiment was transferred to the Department of the Gnlf under Gen. Banks, then ordered to Port Hudson, La., in January, 1864, and July following to Baton Rouge, where in October, 1S65, they were mustered out. The Doctor then returned to West Point, where he has since resided, in the enjoyment of a lucrative practice.

He was married in Qnincy, 111., Oct. 29, 1855, to Miss Mary O. Conyers, a native of Missouri and a daughter of John Conyers, who was a native of Kentucky and of Irish and German descent. The Doctor has had 5 children, of whom 4 are living - ^Martha J., now the wife of G. G. Lohr, residing at Columbus, Adams county, 111.; JohnT. ; Charles F, and Agnes A., the last living at home. Dr. Corey is a Freemason, a Republican, and was Postmaster four years in Pike county. His portrait is given elsewhere in this volume.

Francis Eghers, farmer, sec. 23; P. 0., West Point; was born in New Orleans, La., in 1835. He was a son of Charles and Magdalen (Amon's) Egbers, both of whom were natives of Germany. The former was born in 1800 and the latter in 1812. The subject of this sketch was brought up under the parental roof until his 24th year, when he emigrated to the mountains in the West, and for a year and a half engaged in various kinds of work; in 1860 he returned home and remained onej'car, and then, in 1861, took unto himself a wife in the person of Elizabeth Wilcox, who was born in 1820 in England. Unto them have been born 4 children, 3 of whom are still living; viz., WiberS., Robert C. and Guy F. After marriage Mr. E. located on his father's farm in Rocky Run tp., and - then on a farm of his own in same tp., where he lived seven years, and then located in St. Alban's, near West Point, and was there until he located in Stillwell, where he was engaged in the flouring business for one year, and then he purchased the farm on which he now resides. His farm of 110 acres is valued at $4,000. Mr. E. and his estimable wife are members of the Methodist Church.

William H. Felgar, farmer, sec. 24; P. O., West Point. In the subject of this sketch we have one of St. Alban's most active business men. He was born in Pennsylvania in 1841. His parents were from the same State. His father, John Felgar, was born in 1818. During the first 28 years of his successful life he remained at home; then was united in marriage to Mary A. Hardy, of Adair county. 111., in 1868. They have been blessed with 7 children - May I., John B., Minnie G., Harry H., Oliver H., William S. and Olive A. (dec). After marriage Mr. F. located on

J^. L. F aimer, farmer, sec. 9; P. O. West Point; was born near Niao-ara Falls, in Canada, in 1840. His father. Jacol;> Fulmer, was a native of Pennsylvania, and was born in 180i. His mother was a native of New Y'ork State, and was born in 1808. Her maiden name was Marv J. Merrill. After he was 21 years old. Mr. F. came to Jacksonville. 111., and was employed in the Insane Hospital for two years. He then married Miss Mary J.Bayless and moved to Wisconsin, locating at Iron Ride, Dodd Co.. and farmed two years. Then he moved to Hancock county and located near West Point, and has resided here most of the time since. Was in Keokuk two 3'ears as bridge-keeper, then in Carthage one year, having chai-ge of the poor farm. Mr. F. owns 1 10 acres of well improved land. He is one of St. Alban's representative farmers. He is a member of the M. E. Church at West Point. Their children are Lee D. and Maud.

J. J. Guthrie, grocer. West Point, was born in Kentucky in 1S35. He was the son of John and Sarah (Johnston) Guthrie. Mr. G. remained at home until 21 years of age, receiving more than an ordinary education, enabling him to teach school for several terms. He was married in 1858 to Sarah Crampton, who was born in Sciiuyler county. 111., in 1837. She has borne him 10 children, 6 of whom are living - Wm. L., Ella. John F.. Adie, Charles L. and Henry. Air. G. owns a beautiful home in the village, besides his well-stocked store. He is a member of the Lutheran Church; has been Supervisor, and for 15 years Justice of the Peace, and is now School Treasurer, which office he has filled with unanimous satisfaction for Ave years.

Green Harding, farmer; P. O., Stillwell; was born in 1820, in Adair county, Ky. He is a son of Abel and Julia (Bettisworth Harding; his father was a native of Kentucky, and was born in 1798. His mother was born in Virginia in 1791. The sul)ject ot this sketch is the eldest of 12 children. He came to Hancock county, 111., with his parents, in 1831, which makes him one of the earliest settlers in this county. When his father settled here there were only four families in St. Alban's tp. His father lived the rest ot his long and useful life in the county. He died in 1861. At the age of 17 Mr. Green Harding left home and lived with an uncle for three years, giving most of his time to hunting. He was united in marriage in 1812, with Miss Sarah A. Stokes, who bore him 9 children, 5 boys and 4 girls. She died in Oct., 1862. He married his present wife, Elizabeth Bucklew. of Hancock county, 111., in 1871, who was a native of Ohio and born in 18-10. Julia K., Wesliau G. and Edwin Irvin G. have been born to them. Mr. H. first located on land on which a part of the town of Stillwell now stands. He lived there 20 years, when, in 1863, he sold out and purchased the farm on which he now lives. Mr. H. owns 166 acres of improved land. His home surroundings are such as will make his old age a pleasant one. He has been School Trustee for 20 vears and Justice of the Peace 10 years. He bei;an his Christian life with the M. E. Clinrch, but "now he is a believer in the Universalist doctrine.

John Hicks, is.rn\e\\ sec. 9; P. 0., West Point; was born in Pennsylvania in 1844, and was the son of Constant W. and Snsanah (Kelly) Hicks. The former was born in Vermont in 1820, and died in 1878. His grandfather Kelly was in the war of

His great-grandfather Kelly was born in 1766, was in the Revolutionary wa'i- and died in 1850. The subject of this sketch was married in 1874. He began accumulating for himself on the farm where he now lives, and now owns 166 acres of improved land. He enlisted in the late war in 1864, in the 28th 111. Inft. ; was in the battle of Spanish Fort, Ala. His 2 children are, Susanah, born Sept. 13, 1875, and Constant JB , born March 16, 1878,

Henry Hmkle, farmer, sec. 14; P. O., "West Point; is the S(.n of Andrew and Catharine (Shew) Hinkle, and was born in Pennsylvania in 1827. His parents were natives of Pennsylvania, and his father is still living at the age of 85. Mr. H. assisted his father nntil he attained his majority, when he took unto himself a wife in the person of Sophia Frantz, who was a native of the Keystone State, and born in 1828; 5 of their 9 children are living, Samuel A., Catharine D., Elijah E., Mary M., Franklin A. Mr. H. resided in Pennsylvania till 1858, working at his trade, which was blacksmitliing. He then came West and located in Adair county. 111., where he lived four years, then came to St. Alban's tp. wliere he has farmed ever since. Mr. H. owns 130 acres of good land, and has the reputation of being one of St. Alban's representative farmers. He and his estimable wife are members of - the Christian Church.

Elliott S. Hoffman, farmer, sec. 22; was born Jan. 7. 1826, in Madison county, Va.; his parents were James and Mary H. (Finks) Hoft'man, natives of the same county, and of German and English ancestry; the former was born in 1800 and the latter in J8(.l6. Elliott Finks, the grandfather of Mr. Hotiman, was a Major in the war of 1812. The subject of this notice commenced life for himself at the age of 24; lived in Virginia several years, then in Maryland fonryears,and about 1860 came to Hancock county. In October, 1864, he enlisted in Co. C, 42d 111. Vol. Inf., and served one year, being in the battles of Franklin, Spring Hill, Kashville, etc. Since the close of the war he has resided in this county except six or seven years in Adams county, 111., four years of which time he lived ten miles south of Quincy. By trade Mr. H. is a carpenter and joiner, but since his marriage he has followed farming. He was married in October, 1866, to Mrs. Mung. nee Isabella Gregory, daughter of John Gregory, of Adams county. 111., and formerly of Virginia. She was born "in 1828. Mr. G. was of Irish descent and his wife of Scotch. Mr. Hotiman has a farm of 154 acres, valued at $30 per acre, in this tp., on sec. 22, where he resides, and he has also io acres in Livingston county, Mo., and 320 in Adams county, on sec. 22, Fall Creek tp., valued at §100 per acre and yielding a rental of §1,000 a year. In politics Mr. H. is a Democrat; was formerly an old-line Whig. He is also a member of the Advent Christian Church, at Antioch, of which he and his wife have been members for about five years; they were formerly Baptists.

Geo. M. Jones., farmer, sec. 26: P. O., Stillwell; was born in Ohio in 1833; when IS years old he went to the Golden State where he mined and farmed for four years; then he returned to Hancock county. 111., in 1855, where he has lived ever since excepting the three years he has served his country in the war for the sup|)ression of the Reliellion. He enlisted in the 10th Missouri Infantry, under Col. Holmes, and was in many of the hard-fought battles of the war, among which are the first and second sieges of Corinth, and the battle of luka, and was wounded in the battle at Jackson, and was then taken prisoner, sent to Richmond, Ya., and cast into Libby prison; but was soon removed from thereto Annapolis, Md., and placed in the navy hospital; was sent from there to the parol camp at St. Louis, Mo. After going to the front again he was doing garrison duty most of the time and was in the battle of Kesaca, Ga. He was discharged at Cartersville, Ga., in 1S64:. Since his return home he has lived on his present farm. He has been twice married. His first marriage was with Miss Eliza Stokes, in 1855 ; names of the children are Wilson J. and Delia E. His present wife is a sister of his former wife and a daughter of Noah Stokes, whose biography is given further on. Mr. J. is School Trustee at this time. In politics he is a Reiiublican.

Charles H. G. KessUr, farmer, sec. 17; P. O-, West i^int. This gentleman is a native of Germany, where he was born in TS17. He is the 10th of 11 children born to John and Mary (Wies) Kessler His parents having died when he was )'oung, he was raised by an uncle until he was 14 years old. when he was apprenticed for three years to learn the book-binding trade. Completing his apprenticeship, he emigrated to America in company with his brother John, in 1S36. He first lived in the south part of Missouri for 10 years, then he came to Hancock count\\ and resided in Warsaw for two years, then to the bottoms for two years, then to the bluffs for seven years, and finally to the farm where he now resides, which consists of 190 acres of mostly improved land. Mr. K. was married in 1841 to Elizabeth Benner. of Missouri, but a native of Germain'. 11 children have been born to this union, only 4 of whom are living ; viz., Charles W., Elizabeth, Philip and Annie. His children have more than an ordinary education. Charles has attended the Wesleyan College of Missouri. Methodist. Eepublicau.

Joseph R. Kinny, deceased, well and favorably known, and none more honored or loved, was born in Erie county, N. Y., June 23, 1820. In 1837, when 17 years old, he came to Illinois,' and located in St. Alban's tp. with his parents. At the age of 23 he was united in marriage with Miss Ann J. Graham, wlio was a native of Pennsylvania, and born in 1S27. He leaves to nionrn liis loss his aged widow and 6 of 11 children. Mr. Kinny, althongh never aspiring to become wealth}^ accnmnlated a handsome fortune to leave his family. This was accomplished, too. by his own unceasing industry, and strict honesty. He began the strifes and toils of life with onh' §200, which was given to them by Mrs. Kinny's grandfather Graham. He first purchased 50 acres of land, which is the part of his present tarm on which are the home improvements. He owned 165 acres of land, most of which was well improved. Tlie names of the 6 living children are - Mary P., born in 18i9; Minerva A., born in 1851; Sylvia A., born in 1853; Lutina J., born in 1855; Emma L., born in 1857; Charles O., born in 1866; and Albert T.. born in 1870. Mr. Kinny early embraced the Savior, and, together with his young wife, united with St. Alban's Free-Will Baptist Church, of which he remained a faithful member until his deatii. " He was a noble Christian, a tender husband, a loving father, a kind nei^ghbor."

John M.Kittel, farmer, sec. 16; P. O., "West Point; is one of the pioneers of Hancock county, and also of St. Alban's tp. He has been a resident of the county for 28 years, and IS years in this tp. When Mr. K. located where he now lives there were but few improved farms in the county. He has made all of his large fortune of i30 acres of good land, by the sweat of his brow and strict honesty. Mr. K. is not onl}' one of St. Alban's wealthy men, but he is known as one of the solid men of Western Illinois. He is a native of Germany, born in 1824; came to America in 1850, and first iocated in Adair count}-, !N. Y.; thence to Quincy, 111., and was mere till 1852, and then he went to Warsaw, where he lived for 10%ears, teaming most of the time. In 1862 he came to his present farm, where he has resided ever sincfe. He was married in 1852 to Margaretta Geits, of Quincy, 111., but a native of Germany. The children by this union are 7, - 4 boys and 3 girls. His second union was with Miss Margarette Kittel, in 1868, and they have 4 children living; viz., Sophira, Elizabeth, Martha, and Peter. Mr. K. has more than an ordinary education, and is able to read German and English fluently. Methodist. Republican.

G.W. Linn, druggist. West Point, was born in Indiana in 1832. His parents were natives of Ohio; his father, John Linn, was liorn in 1803, his mother was born in 1S05. Mr. Linn at the age of IS began learning the blacksmith trade, and continued in this employment until 1860, when he engaged in mercantile lousiness for the next 5 years. In 1873 he moved to Hancock county. 111., and commenced the drug business, in which he has been ever since. This is the only drug store in the village. Mr. L. has a large stock of goods, and not only enjoys a lucrative trade, iaut by his social qualities and courteous treatment of customers he is universally esteemed. He was married to Mary E. Carter, of Ohio, in 1853. She has borne him 3 children; viz., Mary A., Emma C, and Nettie

F. Mr. Linn's wife died May 20, 1'873. He was married to his second wit'e,Mrs. Irene Taylor, of Liberty, 111., in September, 1863. There are 2 children by this union, - George H.,born in JS'ovember, IST-i, and Cory G., born in July, 1879. Mr. L. is a member of Masonic and Odd Fellow orders. Has been Collector. Methodist. Republican.

James W. Madison was born in Schuyler county, 111., in 1873. He was a son of Roland T. Madison, whose sketch is given elsewhere in this work. His mother's 'maiden name was Nancy Amy, who was born in Virginia in lS2i. James remained with his parents till he was 27 years old, when he enlisted in the army at Camp Douglas, December, 1861, in the 57th 111. Vol. Inf., and served most of the time as a recruiting officer under Lieutenant Christopher of the regular army. Mr. M. was in the battles at Pittsburg Landing and Corinth, where he was discharged in 1863, because of injuries received. In 1868 he entered Abingdon College, and continued there three years completing the Biblical course. After gradu-_ ation he en<jaged with the Christian Church, and labored for them for 10 years, when he became dissatisfied with the doctrines of that denomination and' united with the Methodist Episcopal Church, and was appointed to West Point Circuit in September, 1879. Mr. M. is a very zealous worker among his people. He was married in 1864 to Fanny Doty; 5 of their 7 children are living; viz., Edmund H., Louis A., Amelia S., Mestyl and Blanche. Mr. M. is a Master M'ason; has been Assessor of St. Alban's township. He owns some town property.

J. K. Mason, dealer in groceries, produce, notions, etc., West Keokuk, Iowa, was born in Adair county. Mo., in 1840, wheiwtji^ county was almost a wilderness; (Tame to Hancock county in islf, settling in 1845 on the farm where Basco now stands; here h^attended his first school; in 1853 lie went to his father's store in Tioga, thence to Warsaw in 1859, where he learned the cooper's trade; in August, 1862, he enlisted in Co. A, 19th Iowa, and fought in the battle of Springfield, Mo., Jan. 7 and 8, 1863; was in the army on the frontier, where long marches were common, until June, 1863, when he went to Vicksburg and was in the trenches during the siege; was in the battle and capture of Yazoo City; was taken pi-isoner at the battle of Morganzie, or Sterling Farm, La., in September, 1863. Of his escape from the rebel prison Mr. Mason has published a detailed account which is too long for insertion here. The prison pen was at Tyler, Smith Co., Texas, from which he escaped on the night of Nov. 24, 1S63. The distance to the nearest Union forces was 260 miles. This long and ]ierilous journey was undertaken witii only one day's rations of corn bread and four biscuit to subsist upon; he seemed to suffer all the hardships possible for man to suffer and live. He reached Ellis Cliff", 12 miles below INatchez, Dec. 24, 1863, where he was taken aboard the Union Monitor Osage. He was then in the hospital at New Orleans until the 3d of July next, when he crossed the Bluff" to Brazos, Santiago' in a small 6o-ton sailing vessel, being eight days ont of sight of land; reached Brazos Jul}' 12, and joined the regiment at Fort Brown on the Kio Grande; had a skirmish at White Ptanch, Texas, in August; went from there to Pensacola, Fla.. where he was detailed for a while in the Provost Marshal's office; from there he went to Fort Gaines, Ala., thence to Pascagoula, Miss., then to Fort Morgan and wound up at Mobile, Ala. Carried collars at assault and during the 12 days' siege of Spanish Fort; was wounded, a part of his lower jaw being carried away by a piece of shell. He was finally discharged from the hospital at Mound City, 111., June 22, 1865. He carries also a wound in his breast.

After stopping in Warsaw awhile he went to La Grange, Mo., where he engaged for a time with B. R. Lafton in the grocery business; in the spring of 1S67 he moved to Warsaw, where he married his present wife, Pachel L. Markley, of Wittsburg, Ark. Her only child, Nellie was born Feb. 14, 1S63. Mr. Mason moved to Keoknk from Wythe township in 1S73, engaging in the grocery business at the lower end of 5th street, where he has built np a prosperous trade. In 1879 he was elected Alderman by a majority of 1878 in a total vote of 482. He is now a member of the City Council, where he stands as high as any other member in the estimation of the people.

Josej)h McKenzie, merchant and Postmaster, Stillwell, is one of St. Alban's pioneer settlers. He was born in Lexington, Ky., in 1825, of Scotch and American ancestry. His parents were John and Sarah (Milligau) McKenzie. At the early age of 13 he left homej^jd for the next few years traveled most of the time. From. ^§434)1^6 he lived in Parke Co., Ind. When he was 21 years of age he came to Hancock Co., Ill, and located eight miles south of Cartha^; followed farmingthere till 1857,when he went to Texas; thence to the Rocky mountains, and then back to McDonough Co., 111. for three years ; and in 1865 he located in Hancock Co., where he has resided ever since. He has been in the village of Stillwell since 1873 engaged in mercantile business. He has also been Postmaster for six years. His first marriage was to Miss Ellen Pike, daughter of William Pike, one of the pioTieers of Hancock county. He was a native of Kentucky, and located in Hancock count}' in 1830, when it took all the men in the county to make a jury. At one time for eight weeks he never saw the face of a white person except those of his own family. Mr. McM. was married a second time to Mrs. Brenneman. Henrietta and Freddie W. are the children living by this union. Mr. McM. is a Freemason, and a Free- Will Baptist.

Joseph McMillan, farmer, sec. 10; P. O., West Point; was born in Ireland in 1822. His parents were Alexander and Jane (Oliver McMillan, born in 1800. Joseph remained in his native land unti 1847, when he came to America and worked in Adams county. 111., near the town of Liberty. Then he was employed for one year as cattle drover, and at the' outlook of the California gold fever he went to tlie mines and was there eight mouths; in 1851 he returned and purchased the farm where he now lives and also a farm at Libert}', where he farmed for one year in partnership with a Mr. Henry. He then sold his interest to him and came to where he now resides; has lived on this farm 27 years. By untiring industry and good management Mr. McMillan lias acci^mulated a handsome fortune. He owns about 600 acres of good land, most ot which is well improved. He is a member of the Adventist Church. He took for his life partner Mary J. Morgan in 1S52; she was a native of Kentucky and was born in 1832. They have been the pareuts ot 7 children, 4 of wliom are living; viz., Charles M.. lioru in August, 1853; Julia A., born December, 1860; Elizabeth, born October, 1863 and MiloL.,born February, 1866. Charles M. graduated at Carthage College in 1878 with the highest honors as mathematician, - higher than those of any one who had ever graduated at that institution. He is now Pi-incipal of West Point schools, under whose administration this village has one of the best schools in the county.

F. G. Mourning, lumber merchant, West Point, was born in Kentucky, and is a son of John and Hannah (Ball") Mourning. The former was a native of Ireland, and the latter of Virginia; he died in 1846, and she in 1837. The subject of our sketch was one of the pioneer settlers of Hancock county, having come here in 1839, and resided in Ihe county ever since with the exception of two years, during which time he lived in McDonough county. Mr. M. has experienced the trials and hardships of Western life, but by honesty and hard labor he has secured a good home and a flourishing lumber business. Mr. M. has followed carj^Nfceriil^ most of his life, until the last six years, during which time he has been a lumber dealer. He was united in marriage with Miss l^ancy Watson in 1839. She was a native of Adair county, Kentucky. They have had 6 children; viz., Joel W., Adaline H., Elizabeth J., Miranda M., Nancy and Charles W. Mr. M. has served as Supervisor, and Town Clerk two terms. Has been a Freemason for 25 years. Mr. M. enlisted in Co. C, 12th Cavalry; transferred to llSth 111. Inf. and was made Captain of Co. H. He is a Kepublican.

Tobias A. Olson, shoemaker, West Point, is a native of Norway; born in lSi6. His parents were natives of Norway and were born respectively in 1825 and 1826. Mr. O. at the age of 22 left his native home, came to America and located first at Oswego, Kendall county, 111., in 1868; then at Aurora, Kane county, and was there 1^ years; then at West Point in 1871, where he has been ever since. He learned his trade at the age of 15 and has continiied at it his whole life, and now enjoys an extensive custom. Mr. O. was married in 1872 to Nancy J. Hughes who was born in Adams county, 111., in 1852, since deceased. They have had 3 children, 2 of whom are living, - Ida J., born in August, 1876; and Orville A. in October, 1877. Lutheran. Republican.

Histoey Of Hancock Ccuntt

H. C. Stephen, waajon-maker, West Point, is a son of Christopher and Elizalieth (Wolf) Stepiien, and born in 8t. Louis, Mo., in 1S42. His parents were natives of Germany, and his fatlier a wheelwright bv trade. H. C. assisted his father in the shop until he was 20 years old, at which time he began for himself, working for a year first at Warsaw, 111,, and then engaged in wagon-making in Burlington for about seven years. He then was in Warsaw two years, then at Burlington again for a year; and in the fall of 1872 he located at West Point, where he has been ever since. By his industry Mr, S, has met with abundant success, having purchased a good home, and also owns his shop. Mr. S. has been twice married. His first marriage was to Miss Cany L. Hentz, of Berlin, in 1873. There were 2 children by this marriage, Arthur and William, both of whom are dead. His second wife was Christina Kassell, of Burlington, Iowa, married in 1876. One child, Harry C, was born to them, Aug. 2, 1877. In politics Mr. S. is a Republican.

Noah Stojces, retired farmer, came here in 1838, when there was only one house between his present home and Warsaw. He is a native of Caroline county, on the eastern shore of Maryland, where he was born in 1798. His parents were also natives of Maryland. His father, William, was born in 1757. His mother, Sarah Cohee, was born in 1760. After he obtained his majority he went to Chester county. Pa., where he lived till 1838, and then emigrated to Illinois, near where he now lives. He was married to Mary Willson in 1819, who was born in Pennsylvania in 1799. Ten children have been born to them, onl}' 3 of whom are living; viz., Ruthana (Jones), with whom he now lives, Emma (Jackson) and Harriett (Cox). Although '- Grandpa" is 82 years old ho still possesses a strong memory. He is a man who has been and is yet firm in his opinions on all subjects. About two j'ears since he lost his sight entirelj'. He has always been a Democrat.

Josej)h L. Sullivan, blacksmith and engineer, Stillwell, was born in Lancaster county. Pa., in 1831. His parents M'ere natives of the same State, tbe former born in 1808, and the latter in 1809. His mother's maiden name was Eliza Quigley. He remained at home till 22 years old, and then emigrated to California and was there 17 years, mining and blacksmithing. In 1870 he returned to Hancock county, and lias made it his home here ever since. He is at present engineer in the grist-mill at Stillwell. He is a Methodist and a Democrat.

Enos S. Tuttle, deceased, was a native of Connecticut, and born in 1796. He was a miller by trade. His wife, nee Ehoda Benson, was born in New York in 1803. He moved to Indiana in 1817, in which State he was a prominent man; served one term as County Commissioner in 1845-'6. He was elected Representative j'rora the counties of Fulton and Marshall in 1S18. and served in the session of that year. He died at the age of 51. in Hancock county. 111., in 1850. He was an intimate friend of Hon. Schuyler Colfax.

Enos B. Tuttle, wagon-maker at Stilhvell, is a sou ot the preceding, and was born in Clarke county, Ind., in 1S37. When 21 years of age he went to the Rocky mountains and remained a year; then came to this county and enlisted in tlie war, at Quincy, under Capt. Anderson, and served three years; was taken prisoner at Muldrough Hill, Ky., and was prisoner nine months. He participated in the battles of Missionary Ridge, Cold Water, Resaca and Nashville, with man}' otliers. Mr. T. was married in 1S60, to Miss Mary J. Tamer, who was born in 1842, and is a native of Indiana. Only one of their 5 children is living, namely, Enos W., born October, 1878. In 1871 Mr. T. located in Stillwell, and has been workiny- at his trade ever since. He is one of the best workmen in the county, and enjoys a hicrative trade. He has held the offices of Town Clerk and Assessor. Is a member of the Adventist Church.

James O.Ward, i-nvmer and stock dealer, sec. 13; P. -O., West Point; is a native of Adams county, 111., and was born in 1841. His father's name was James Ward, and he was a native of England, and born in 1784. By occupation he was n lilaeksmith and wheelright. He emigrated to America in 1S3'> and located in New York city, where he lived for 5 years. AVhile residing in this city he took unto himself as a partner in lilo Mary Truelock, who was a native of St. John's New Brunswick; she was born in 1804. In 1841 he came to Payson, Adams county. 111., and erected a mill, which has never been surpassed in this section of the country. After 12 years' residence in that county he moved to Hancock county, where he resided until his death in 1876. He was a ineniber of the English Church. Although he knew nothing of figures, with a slate and pencil he could calculate the cost of anything with great rapidity and exactness. The subject of this sketch was married in 1S62 to Miss Harriet Wigle, of Adams county. 111. Mr. W. owns 90 acres of land, which he farms, besides a block in West Point. He deals extensively in stock, having shipped to the south over 2,000 mules and horses to this date, 300 of which have been shipped this year. He is keeping a fine stallion known as " Young Montezuma;" he is eight years old; was sired by James M. Nelson's "Whip Horse." His dam was "Diomede" and "Bertram." Weight 1,600 lbs.

Levi Wolf, farmer; P. O., West Point; was born in 1S29 in Adams county, Pa.; is a son of John and Julia (Sowers) Wolf. The former was a native of Pennsylvania, and was born in 1801. He was a shoemaker by trade; his mother was a native of Pennsylvania, and was born in 1806. Levi remained at hoine until 1850, when he was united in marriage to Mrs. S. L. Corhin. who was a native of New York, and born in 1813. She had 4 children by her former husband 2of whom ai'e living; namely, Parker, now of Kansas; and Jacob S., now of Quincy. John H. and Geo. W., have been born to this union. Mr. W. first located on his farm seven miles south- east of Qiiincy, 111., and lived there 16 years; went to West Point in 1867, where he has been engaged in mercantile business most of the time since. In the tirst fonr years of this business Mr. W. was first in partnership with Mr. Franks, and then with Mr. Corbin, after which Mr. W. continued the business alone until latel,y. when he sold out to his son Geo. W. Mr. W. owns 160 acres of land, besides valuable town property. He held the office of Collector in Adams county two years. He is a Freemason, a Methodist and a Republican.

J. Wl York, farmer, sec. 5; P. O., West Point; was born in Kentuck}' in 1821. His parents were natives of the same State. His father, Jesse York, was a farmer. His mother's maiden name was Betty Wright. He lived at home until he reached his majority, when he farmed and coopered for 12 years, and then took to himself a life partner in 1827. His wife, Neoma Morris, was a native of Ohio, but was married in Jacksonville, 111. Of their 7 children 5 are living; viz., Laura J., Anderson D., Arthur, Harry and Fanny. Mr. York first located near Tioga, where he farmed for 15 years. He then sold out his farm there and came to St. Alban's tp., to the farm where he now lives, four miles northwest from West Point, and has lived there ever since. He owns 270 acres of good land, and improved. Mr. York began the battle of lite with only $16 in money, and has accumulated his present wealth and comfortable home by hard labor and good management on the part of himself and his industrious and amiable wife. Mr. York and wife are both members of the Congregational Church of West Point.

William H. Zinn, farmer, sec. 23; P. O., Stillwell; was born in 1S3S in West Virginia. His father's name was Samuel G., and he was born in 1805. His mother's maiden name was Mary Dawson, and she was a native of Virginia. Our subject had the pleasure and benefits of parental influence till he was 22 years of age, when he came to St. Alban's tp.. in 1862, where he has resided ever since. Was united in the bonds of holy matrimony in 1S62, to Martha E. Short, of St. Alban's. She died in 1865. 'There are 2 children by this nnion living - Mary A. and Henrietta. His second marriage occurred in 1866, and was to Florence A. Crawford, of Walker tp., native of Illinois. Nellie M., Wra. G. and Harry C. are their children. Mr. Z. owns and has under cultivation 245 acres of land, valued at §10,000. He has held the office of Township Supervisor for three years.