Tremont Township

Tremont Township

This township has a fair proportion of timber land, and is well drained by numerous streams, among which are Mackinaw river, Prairie creek. Deer creek. Mud creek, etc. The township was settled at a very early date, and has been brought to a very high state of cultivation. Among the first settlers Avas Hezekiah Davis, who was born in Virginia, Dec. 3, 1798. He came to Illinois in 1819, and to Tazewell Co. in 1826. He bought out Thomas Cameron, who had started in the tannery business, but had not finished any leather. In July, the 17th, 1827, Mr. Davis moved his tannery to Pleasant Grove, sec. 2, Elm Grove township. He carried on the business there until the Tremont colony came. The colonists bought up all the timber land and he could get no more bark, and was compelled to abandon the business. It took him about a year and a half to tan hides, as the fires that ran througli the timber liad weakened the bark. Mr. Davis could do nothing at his business during the winter of the deep snow. He was away from home, and was unable to get home for two months. It is supposed that James Chapman was the first settler in the township. Among other early settlers were Michael Trout, David Lackland, Wm. Stcarling, William and James Broyhill, the former of whom bought the improvements made by Chapman. For some years nothing of interest occurred in the history of the township. It was not until 1834, when the purchasing committee of the Tremont colony appeared, that anything of interest is noted. This committee was composed of Josiah L. James, John H. Harris and Wjlliam Sampson. They selected a fine body of land on the prairie in the western part of this and Elm Grove townships. There was no settlement on this prairie at that time, save a place known as the Auburn house, which was near the center of the township. The Tremont colony was formed in New York City and in Providence, R. I., and came here in 1835. It was composed of about fifty persons. They brought with them the culture, refinement and enterprise of the East. The town prospered at first, and soon secured the public buildings of the county, which gave an impetus to its growth that was remarkable. But soon the long, eventful and disastrous contention arose between Pekin and Tremont, which not only retarded its growth at the time, but injured the bright prospects of both towns. We speak of this portion of Tremont's history in the second chapter of this book, and will, therefore, make no repetition.

The rapid strides made by the young colony is shown by the fact of their eagerness to incorporate as a town. On the 25th of July, 183G, a vote was taken for or against incorporation. There were twenty -eight ballots for and one against the proposed move. The incorporation measure being adopted, town officers must be chosen. Accordingly, Tuesday evening, Aug. 2, 1836, at the school-house, for the purpose of chosing five Trustees, an election was held. The following gentlemen were selected : IMiilij) Flaglee, Coles Tompkins, Palmer Holmes, J. C. Morgan, and Richard S. Updike.

Nathan Kinsey delivered the first load of lumber in Tremont for the first house, which was Col. Chas. Oakley's, and Josiah Matthews completed the first house. The old county buildings still stand, and are owned by the town. The court-house was used for a number of years as a high-school building, and many of the men and women who are to-day actively engaged at various callings throughout the county, received much of their education in attendance upon the the Tremont High School.

Among the early settlers of this township who are now living, is Martha S. Sawyer, wife of Rees Sawyer. They came in 1835, and she has lived here ever since. Mrs. Sawyer was born in 1801, and during the past winter spun twelve knots in a day. She walks to town, a distance of seven miles, and returns, apparently without much fatigue.

Capps & Wisler have a grist-mill on the Mackinaw, in this town, on section 26. This is a new mill, and has three run of burrs, two for wheat and one for corn. The mill that formerly stood here was destroyed by fire in the fall of 1878.

Phillips Bros, have a saw-mill on the Mackinaw, on the line between Hopedale and Tremont townships, on sec. 3 of the former and 34 of the latter. They have good facilities and are doing a good business. They have a twenty horse-power engine, and a capacity of turning out 4,500 feet of lumber per day.

Before closing this sketch of Tremont we wish to speak personally of some of the leading citizens. We would call attention to the following :

Charles A. Bowyer, son of Engle and Mary Bowyer, was born in Cullpepper Co., Va., Oct. 31, 1822. In Dec., 1845, he moved to Tazewell Co., and is farmer on sec. 12. He has served in the important position of Justice of the Peace. Oct. 29, 1846, he was married, and is the father of seven children. Politically he is a Democrat.

John Boyle is an old resident of this county, having come here in December, 1835, when he was a small boy. His father, John Boyle, was a native of Ireland, while his mother, Sarah Green, was a Virginian. They were residing in Henderson Co., Ky., in 1830, when their son John Avas born to them. He is engaged in farming on section 23. He was married to Sarah Miars, on the 23d of Sept., 1856. Their children number six, wearing the following names: Mary, Martin, Fannie, Charles, Martha and Archie. Twenty-one years ago Mr. B. made a profession of religion and is connected with the Christian Church at Mackinaw. He votes the Democratic ticket. Post-office, Mackinaw.

Wileam Buchele is a native of Baden, Germany, where he was born in 1841. His parents were Hieronymus, and Frances (Jager) Buchele. He came to this county in 1865. He has a bakery, grocery, and confectionary in the village of Tremont. He served, during the war, in the 8th 111. Infantry, in Co. I. Mr. B. was united in marriage, Feb. 11, 1866, to Josephine Brellesaner. She has

Fred Capps, miller, was born in Germany in 1842. His parents, August and Fridrike (Trieka) Capps, were also natives of Germany. Mr. C. attended the High Schools of Germany and finished his edu<^ation in Wisconsin, When the Rebellion first broke out he took up arms to defend the Government of his adopted country. He enlisted in company H, 7th 111. Infantry, in December, 1861, and re-enlisted in 1863 as a veteran. He accompanied Sherman's army on the march to the sea. December 26, 1866, he was married to Minnie Brown. Charlie, Minnie and Freddie are their children. Mr. C. resides on sec. 26, and is carrying on a milling business on the Mackinaw. He is a Democrat. Post-office, Mackinaw.

Milo Dalbey is a son of John, and Clara (Gard) Dalbey. Mr. Dalbey was born in the State of Ohio, Jan. 23, 1843, and was brought to this county the following year. He resides on sec, 34, and is engaged in farming. He served during the Rebellion in Co. E, 3d 111. Cavalry. At the close of the war he turned his attention to domestic affairs, and was united in marriage, March 8, 1865, to Miss Margaret Davis, Avho has borne him seven children, as follows - Ira, George, Clara, Seborn, Henry, Idila, and Milo. Post-office, Tremont.

Aquilla J. Bavis is one of the pioneers of this county. His parents, Hezekiah and Sarah T. (Scott) Davis, came to this county in an early day. Aquilla J., the subject of this sketch, was born in this county, March 3, 1830. He grew to manhood while his native county was being converted from a wilderness to modern homes. When our nation was in peril, Mr. Davis went to her defense. He was mustered as second lieutenant, Nov. 1, 1861, in Co. H, 11th cavalry, under Col. R. G. Ingersoll, and served until Oct. 15, 1865. He was promoted to lieutenant colonel. Dec. 24, 1850, Col. Davis was united in marriage to Miss Martha A. Gowdy. They have been blessed with seven children, three boys and four girls, six of whom are now living. Col. Davis' political views accord with those of the Democratic party. Post-office address, Tremont.

Thomas J. Bavis, farmer and stock raiser. Mr. Davis is a i)ioneer of this county, having been born in Elm Grove township, Nov. 23, 1831. His parents were William and Jane (Eads) Davis, His flither was the old hunter, surveyor and early settler of this county. Mr. D. was educated in the schools of his native county. As a farmer and stock raiser, he has been very successful. He was married April 10, 1859, to Miss Susan Fisher. Their children are Sophronia, William, Charlie, Eliza, Archie, and Walter. In politics he is a Republican. Post-office, Tremont.

Robert Sanford Finks is a son of John and Wineford Finks. Robert S. was born in Culpepper county, Va., Oct. 5, 1816, and when 18 years old went to Howard county. Mo. In the year 1836 he entered the State malitia, under General Clark, against the Mor- mons. They captured the leaders, among whom were Brigham Young, White, and others. They took them to Richmond, Mo., where a compromise was made that they should leave the State. He then went back to Virginia. After about ten years he came to Illinois, and settled in Tazewell county, where he has since remained. Mr. F. is a consistent member of the Christian Church, and an intelligent and enterprising citizen. He was united in marriage to Miss Lucy A. McQueen ; the union has been blessed with four chldren.

James F. Finks is a native of Mackinaw township, this county. He is a member of the firm of Finks & Allen, of Allentown, grain dealers. The subject of our sketch was united in marriage, Feb. 29, 1872, to Miss Nellie Franklin; they have one child, who was born May 2, '73.

Gustiis Flegel is of German parentage, and was born in Tazewell county, June 4, 1855, where he received a common school education. His parents are Christian and Willmanda (Hodgson) Flegel. Gustus is engaged in farming on sec. 23, Tremont township, and has been quite successful financially. He has identified himself with the Republican party. Post-oifice, Mackinaw.

Marks Goodyear was born June 10, 1809. Mr. Goodyear left New York on the 17th of Jf.n., 1837, for Illinois, with his family, consisting of wife and three children. Their conveyance was a wagon set on a sleigh. In this vehicle they traveled three hundred and fifty miles ; then there came a thaw in which the snow disappeared, the wheels were put on the wagon, and they went from Dayton, Ohio, to Cincinnati, over very rough roads, most of the time it being very cold. Arriving at Cincinnati, they had to wait a week before they could get a boat down the river. Mr. G. says " they had a long, tedious voyage ; the boat caught fire once, but finally the flames were extinguished." He landed his familv in Pekin the 7th day of March; he remained in this township till 1841, when he moved to sec. 32, Morton township, where he now resides. Mr. Goodyear was united in marriage, April 13, 1834, to Miss Eliza Hodges. This union has been blessed with ten children, of whom seven are living. Mr. G. is a member of the Episcopal Church. In politics he acts with the Democratic party.

EUsha Grenard, farmer, resides on section 23 ; was born in Indi- ' ana in 1831. His parents are Elisha and Anna (Reeve) Grenard. He was educated in the common schools of Indiana, and came to this county in 1873. The 18th of Oct., 1855, is a memorable day in the history of the life of Mr. Grenard. Upon that day he took unto himself a wife in the person of Joanna Roll. Their children number seven, all of whom are living. Their names are - John C, Mary E., Elizabeth J., Emma J., Harvey L. and Fred. E. Mr. G. is a member of the Mackinaw Methodist Church. In politics he is identified with the Republican party. Post-office, Mackinaw.

been born in Miami county, of that State, in 1835. It was there his early life was passed, and where he gained his education, in attendance upon the common schools. His father, Jonathan Hammond, was a native of the Green Mountain State, and his mother, Louisa Harrington, was born in the Empire State. In July, 1843, Mr. H. was married to Mary Lance. The following ten children are the fruits of this marriage - Peter, Jonathan, Elizabeth, Catharine, John, George, Alice, Annie, Winficld and Belle. Mr. H. came to this State in 1840 and settled in Fulton county, and in 1848 came to Tazewell. He resides on section 23. Politically he is a Democrat. Post-office, Mackinaw.

John H. Harris was born in Bedford, Westchester Co., N. Y., Oct. 31, 1792. He was the sou of Ezekiel and Elizabeth (Hamilton) Harris, natives of N. Y. His early life was spent on the farm, receiving a common school education. In the year 1809, he went to learn the hatter's trade with William Garretson, at Sing Sing, N. Y. ; here he remained until 1812, when he went to New York, from there he went to South Carolina, on Nov. 1, 1812, to clerk for a brother in the hatter's business. Mr. Harris was taken prisoner twice by the British during the war of 1812, but was paroled both times. Mr. H, returned to N. Y. and imbarked in the hatter's business for himself in 1815, which he continued until 1833, when he came to 111. to look at the country, which made a favorable impression on him. He returned to N. Y. in 1835, and helped to form a colony which afterwards settled in Tremont township. Mr. Harris was made Treasurer, Mr. H. was married to Miss Catharine Montross, Dec. 2, 1815. She bore him four children - Elizabeth, Jacob, Louise M., deceased, and John H. Mr. H. was again married, April 3, 1844, to Mrs. Sarah Holder, of Lynn, Mass. Postoffice, Tremont.

Henrietta Jenks was born in Somerset Co., Maryland Dec. 20, 1811. Her parents were James and Elizabeth (Nelson) Owens. She came to this county in 1833, and was united in marriage, Oct. 29, 1835, to George Jenks. This union was blessed with ten children. Mrs. Jenks resides on sec. 5, Tremont township, on what is known as the Lone Tree Farm.

Jlclcin P. Lackland is a son of Col. William II. Lackland, who served three years in the Civil war, and his wife, Cordelia C. (Warner) Lackland. Melvin P. was born in Tremont towniship, Oct. 12, 1851. He has received a liberel education, having graduated at the Wesleyan University, of Bloomington, 111., with the Class of '78, after a five years' course. He was President of his class. He took a more extended course in mathematics than any graduate of the Institution. Mr. L. has been a member of the Methodist Church since Oct. 12, 1872. Post-offi(!e, Tremont.

Levi R. Matthews was born in Ro(!hester, Vt., in 1830. His parents were Josiah and Mariette (Waters) Matthews. He attended the schools of Tazewell county, and finished his education at Knox

College, Galesburg, 111, He was married April 30, 1852, to Miss M. A. Sill, who has borne him seven children - Mary L., Ellen M., Katie L., Annie M., Levi E,., Grace L., and Wimfred L. Mr. Matthews became connected, in 1850, with the Antioch Christian Church. He was a conductor on the Under-ground Railroad. Post-office, Tremont.

Vitilda May is a daughter of Samuel and Malinda (Wood) May. She is a native of Tazewell county, having been born here Sept. 15, 1358. She was educated in the schools of her native county. She resides on sec. 36. Post-office, Mackinaw.

Samuel A. McClure is a native of McLean Co., 111., where he was born Feb. 9, 1850. His parents were Samuel and Deliah J. (Orendorff") McClure. The subject of this sketch was educated in the schools of Logan Co., 111. He came to this county in 1858, and now resides on sec. 35, following the occupation of farming. He was united in marriage in 1874, to Miss Mollie Stout. They are the parents of three children - Lillian E., Maudie J., and Lourin. Mr. McClure is a member of the Presbyterian Church. Post-office, Mackinaw.

Samuel R. Saltonstall, M.D. Dr. S. is one of the solid men of this county. He was born in Scott Co., Ky., Aug. 31, 1818, and came to this county in 1839. Dr. S. attended the schools of his native State and finished his education at the St. Louis University, where he received the degree of M.D. Dr. Saltonstall has represented this district in the State Legislature three terms, which fact speaks of his ability in much higher terms than we can find words to express it. He has also represented the township in the Board of Supervisors. Dr. S. was united in marriage, Dec. 3, 1840, to Elizabeth C. Harris. They have been blessed with three children - Nathaniel M., born Sept. 20, 1841, by occupation a stock raiser; Hamilton H., born Sept. 14, 1843, died March 28, 1868, was a lawyer by profession; Kate, born March 5, 1848. Politically Dr. Saltonstall is a Democrat. Post-office, Tremont.

Thomas S. Shaw is a native of Ky., in which State he was born, Dec. 31, 1832. His parents were AVilliam and Alice (Nesbit) Shaw. Mr. Shaw came to this county in 1865, and became engaged in farming and stock raising, in which he has been quite successful. He was united in marriage June 3, 1861, to Miss I^orena C. Marrs; they are the parents of three children. Mr. S. is a member of the Christian Church. In politics he is a Republican. P.O., Tremont.

James B. Sterling was born in East Tennessee, Oct. 11, 1827. His parents were William and Jane (Lackland) Sterling. Mr. Sterling came to this county when but four years old. He is a farmer on sec. 17, in which calling he has been quite successful. Mr. Sterling was united in marriage Feb. 1, 1856, to Miss Mary J. Shepherd. His father was born in McMinn Co., Tenn., in 1800, and came to this State in 1830, and stopped in Sangamon county and put in a crop and came to Tremont in September and settled on the place he now owns. He had nothing but one horse and a wagon. His horse strayed away from him leaving him without any horse. Then the deep snow came and his family saw no persons except the family that came with him, which was Mr. Broyhill's, for two months. They killed eleven deer, which furnished meat, and they lived on deer and hominy. They could get no flour. They got' out of corn and went to the nearest settlement, which was three miles away, to get some corn to make hominy. It took all day to gather 10 bushels of corn and four horses to haul it home.

Peter Speece, farmer ; is the son of Peter and Sarah (Princehouse) Speece, Virginians. He was born to them in 1824, while they were living in Champaign county, Ohio. In the common schools of that State he received his education. At the age of twenty (Sept. 1, 1844), he was married to Tliamer Swiger, who has borne him seven children, all of whom live. Their names are Washington, Martha A., Mary E., "William, Elizabeth, Edward, and Thomas T. Mrs. S. came to this State from Ohio in 1850, and settled in Sangamon county, where he made a farm. In 1865 he came to Tazewell county. In 1863 he made a profession of his faith in Christ, and united with the Christian Church. He is connected with the Concord Congregation in Hopedale township. Politics, Democratic. Post-office, Tremont.

Wtlliam D, -S/je/T7/ was born in Onondago county, N. Y., Sept, 10, 1831. His father, Aurelius Sperry, was born in New Haven, Conn., in 1800, and came to Tazewell county in 1849. He was Deacon in the Baptist Church at Tremont for many years and held the position at the time of his death. His mother, Julia Mandiville, was born in Middlebury, Conn., in 1804. She is now living. William's grandmother died in 1877. She was born in New Haven, Conn., in 1780. On the 4th day of July, 1877, at a picnic, this old lady was present and had grcat-great-grandc^hildren with her. They were the children of William S. Russell. The younger nearly three years of age. These children had eleven grand and greatgrand and great-great-grandparents living. Mr. Sperry resides on sec. 10, and is engaged in farming. He formerly worked at the cooper's trade. He has held the office of Justice of the Peace for eight years. In 1853, Jan. 11, he was married to Anna Dean. Ella, Eugene, Adelbert, and Elmer E., are the names of their four children. He is a member of the Tremont Baptist Church. In politics, a Republican. Post-office, Tremont.

Henry L. Trout. One of the many young men who were born in Tazewell county ; who have grown u]>, educated and married here, and who have identified themselves with the interests of their native place, is the subject of this sketch, Henry L. Trout. His parents were Matthias and Mary (Ireland) Trout, of Tennessee. He was educated in the common schools and Tremont High School. He is engaged in farming on section 15. October 15, 1874, he was joined with Elizabeth Owens in holy matrimony. Mrs. Trout is also a native of this county. They have a little girl, Gertrude, who was born March 5, 1876. In politics he is a Democrat. Post-office address, Tremont.

Mrs. Minnie E. Trout, wife of the late William H. Trout, a stock dealer, which business he carried on successfully until his death, which occurred Dec. 14, 1872, after a brief illness of thirty hours. Mrs. Trout was born in Lorain Co., Ohio, April 23, 1839. Her parents were Libeus and Anna (Bliss) Sperry. She was wedded to William H. Trout April 18, 1861 ; they have had two sons - Zenas A., born Sept. 7, 1862, died July 7, 1867; and Frederick H. Trout, born June 5, 1864. Mrs. Trout united herself with the Methodist Church in 1859. Post-office, Tremont.

Dc Witt C. Warner. In the dark days of the Rebellion Mr. Warner came forward and enlisted, Aug. 14, 1862, in Co. A. 108th 111. Vol. He had the misfortune to fall into the hands of the enemy at Price's Cross Poads, on ths 12th day of June, 1864. He was taken to Andersonville prison, where he was confined for five long months and eight days, sufficing terribly the pangs of hunger, his rations being a half pint each of beans and corn meal per day, and a tea-spoonful of salt once a week.

Fredrick W. Warner is a son of Hiram and Phebe Warner. He was born in Tremont, this county, Dec. 24, 1854, and was educated in the schools of his native county. He chose the pursuit of farming, in which he has been quite successful. Mr. W. was joined in marriage, Aug. 13, 1875, to Miss Elizabeth J. Williamson,

Jesse Wilso7i, farmer, is a native of this county, having been born in Tremont township. His parents are Edward and Mary Wilson. Mr. Edward Wilson is a very large farmer and stock raiser, and is the owner of 1800 acres of land. Post-office, Mackinaw.

3fary Wilson was born in Montgomery Co., Tcnn,, in 1829. Her parents were John Allensworth and Rebecca Shankliu, his wife. She came to this county in 1834. She was united in marriage Feb. 3, 1846, to Henry Wilson. She is the mother of seven children - Edward S., Sarah E., Benjamin F., Susan E., William S., Jesse S,, and John L. She is a member of the Hopedale Christian Church. Post-office, Mackinaw.

Alexander Wynd, grocer and farmer, Tremont, was born in Dundee, Scotland, June 18, 1808. His parents, Robert and Margaret (Constable) Wynd, were Scottish people. Young Alexander was apprenticed to the bakery trade to Margaret Proctor, of Dundee, then worked in London two years, and shortly afterwards sailed for America, landing in New York in 1830. He remained in that city for a number of years, when he went to New Orleans, and in 1839 came to this county, and engaged in mercantile life. He received a good common-school education in Scotland. In 1844, May 27, he united his fortunes with those of Frances E. Clement, a native of France. Their children numbered ten, six of whom are living - Margaret, John C, Augustus P., Frances, Freeman and Genevieve. Religiously he is a Presbyterian ; politically, Democrat.

Henry C, Vaicter, farmer, sec. 27, post-office, Tremont. He is a son of J. D. and Sarah (Foster) Vawter. He was born in Ky., April 4, 1838, and came to this connty when bnt nine years old. Was educated in the public schools of his adopted State and county. He has been a consistent member of the Christian Church since 1858. He was united in marriage to Miss Sarah L. Davis, Sept. 7, 1866. They have been blessed with three children - Oliver, Sarah L., and Henry L.

Source changes here: from Guide to Historical Picture Gallery of One Thousand Tazewell County Pioneers, by Cole, Henry H, published 1908; 3,834 words in this source stream.

Oldest Pioneer Business Man Of Pekin, Ill

Mr. Haines was born in Butler county, Ohio, Sept. 10, 1822. Came to Dillon set¬ tlement, Tazewell county, Illinois, with his parents, in Nov., 1827. While still in his teens taught a "pay school," then later at¬ tended the Law Department of Transylvania University, Louisville, Ky., graduating with honors in 1848. On removal of county seat from Tremont to Pekin, in 1848, the Legislature appointed him a Corrnjiissioner to superintend the erection of a Court House at Pekin. This structure, nearly 58 years old, is still in a good state of preservation.

History

His first law case was before Judge David Davis, in Pekin, and he was assisted by Abraham Lincoln. In 1850, he opened a bank and insurance office in Pekin. He is still an insurance agent.

Mr. Haines has been a useful citizen. Was Posmaster of Pekin under President Cleveland. Has been President of the Old Settlers' Society of Tazewell County, for several years, and now, at the advanced age of nearly 86 years, is hale and hearty, and serving Pekin as her honored Treasurer.

Bv W. H. Bates. Pekin. Ill

LaSalle, the French explorer, and his followers, are entitled to "first honors' ' for discovery and occupancy as early as 1680, when they erected Fort Creve Coeur on the high bluff in the extreme northwestern corner of Pekin township, Tazewell county, overlooking what is now Wesley City, on the Illinois river; and within the range of vision to the west, South Peoria, Bartonville, and the State Asylum.

It was an ideal location, with deep ravines on either side, and the waters of the Illinois washing its western base, enclosed with log palisades, within whose walls was erected the first log houses built in Tazewell county, then the "Great Northwest."

On the ground where Wesley City was built, just north of a deep ravine and west of the tracks of the P. & P. U. Ry., the French, who retained their friendship and association with the Indians, built a large log store¬ house, within whose walls was kept such merchandise as could be traded for skins and pelts brought there by the Indians and first white hunters and trappers. This building was first known as the "Trading House," and was still standing as late as the early thirties of the ninteenth century.

Colv George Rogers Clark, with his force of 150 "Long knives,' ' captured Kaskaskia, on the Kaskaskia river, on the night of July 4th, 1778. The post then in the hands of the British, surrendered. Captain Bowman, with a force of "Long knives" and friendly Frenchmen, was then sent 50 miles north to Cahokia, which they capturtured, then compelled its French in¬ habitants to take an oath of allegi¬ ance to the American Colonies.

A part of this force, which did not re-enlist, afterwards accompanied by a party of Maryland emigrants, be¬ came the first American settlers of what was afterwards known as the "Great American Bottoms" near Ca¬ hokia, in the vicinity of what is now East St. Louis. This was in 1781.

Then followed that heroic march of Col. Clark and his meagre command, in the winter of 1778-79, across the bleak prairies of "Illini" country to Vincennes, on the Wabash river, and the capture of that British strong¬ hold. These achievements of Clark and his American heroes gave to the State of Virginia and the American Colonies the "Northwest Territory," out of which the States of Ohio, Indi¬ ana, Illinois, Michigan and Wiscon¬ sin, have been created.

The Indians held nominal possess¬ ion of this region until the Territory of Illinois was organized in 1809, when it was divided into the counties of Randolph and St. Clair, and Caho¬ kia made the Capital. Tazewell was a part of the northern border of St. Clair county.

From 1812 to 1827, during the varied formation and adjustment of Illinois into counties, Tazewell form¬ ed a part of the following: Madison, Edwards, Crawford, Bond, Fayette, Sangamon and Peoria counties.

Tazewell county, containing seven¬ ty-nine townships, was not organized until 1827, but owing to defects, the organization was not perfected until the Legislature met in 1829.

In 1830, part of McLean; in 1839, part of Logan, and in 1841, parts of Mason and Woodford counties were taken from the original seventy-nine townships, and Tazewell county re¬ duced to nineteen townships.

Owing to limited space we can only chronicle such striking features of early pioneer history as we have been able to glean from authentic records and traditional reports:

Nathan Dillon built a log cabin on Dillon creek, Dillon township in 1823, and continued a permanent settler. He was therefore one of the first, if not the first, (as claimed), settlers of this county. The other claimants are William Blanchard, jr., Charles and Theodore Sargeant and David Barnes, who in 1821 built a rude hut in Fondulac township, opposite Fort Clark, (now Peoria). Then, about the same time, Wm. Holland settled in Wash¬ ington township.

Business

Thomas Camlin, (the Daniel Boone of Tazewell county), was one of the first settlers of Fondulac township. He was a great hunter, a genial com¬ panion and an inimitable story-teller.

The first death was that of Mr. Killum, who died in December, 1823, as a result of exposure after crossing the Mackinaw river, on a trip from Logan county (then Tazewell) to Peoria.

These gentlemen found Chief Shaubena, the white man's friend, occu¬ pying the ridge above the present Gas Works, with an Indian village extend¬ ing southward on the same ridge. It was an ideal location, so Tharp built his log cabin home nearby, and be¬ came a neighbor of the great Potta¬ watomie chief.

Another village of Indian wigwams was located near Mackinaw, on the river of that name. It was composed of a band of Kickapoos, with chief Machina as their leader.

the first grist-mill in Elm Grove town¬ ship in 1825. It took four horses to propel, and its capacity was three bushels per hour - the customer fur¬ nishing his own horses or oxen for the motive force. The pioneer mills were called "band mills, " or "horse mills. " Oxen or horses were used to propel them.

Elisha Perkins built another "band mill" near Circleville, about the same time. This mill was stockaded and used as a fort during the Black Hawk war in 1832.

The first mill propelled by water was erected on Farm creek, in 1827, by Mr. Leak. It had one run of stone, and the bolting was done by hand.

The first "fulling" and "carding" mill was erected in 1832, by Theodo¬ ras Fisher, on section 3, Elm Grove township. A crude inclined wheel, on which oxen continuously walked, was the propelling power.

Peter Cartwright, the great pioneer preacher, held the first camp-meet¬ ing in Tazewell county, in 1827, in a grove on Dillon creek. Known then as Drum's spring.

On June 25, 1827, John and Fanny Stout, were married at old "Father" Stout's, five miles from Mackinaw, by Rev. Wm. Brown. The license was written on the fly-leaf of an old book, by Mordecai Mobley, the first county clerk. Mobley made the ink from gunpowder and water, and the pen from a large quill-feather of a rooster plucked for the occasion. This was the first marriage license written in Tazewell county after her severance from Peoria county.

In the summer of 1827, the first keel-boat load of merchandise, arriv¬ ed at the "Town Site" landing. Some of these goods were then hauled by team to Mackinaw, the county seat.

The first court house, erected at Mackinaw, in 1827, was built of hewn logs. It was 18 feet wide and 24 feet long; one story and a half high; one window of 8x10 glass on each side, and one 8x10 four-light window in front gable; a puncheon floor below and board floor and ceiling above; a "stone and stick" fire-place at the end opposite door, supplied warmth. This crude building was the "seat of justice" until the county seat was moved to Pekin, in 1831.

The first steamboat that ascended the Illinois river, late in 1828, caused great consternation. On hearing the hideous noise made by the escaping steam, the Indians fled to the hills. Hugh Barr, living at Kingston, hear- ing the wierd noise and seeing the light of the fire under the steam boil¬ ers, like two great eyes, thought it was some "monster of the deep," so with "dog and gun," chased it up the river toward "Town Site." As the steamer approached the latter place, those who had never seen a steamboat ran to the nearest neighbor for pro¬ tection. Old Father Tharp, it is said, thinking that the "end of the world" was at hand, assembled his family and neighbors and offered up prayers beseeching the "Father of All" to re¬ ceive them at the "Pearly Gates." Good old Aunt Ruth Stark prayed for Angel Gabriel to pass "Town Site," and call at "Fort Clark," (Peoria), as they were "wickeder up there."

At the land sales in Springfield, in 1828, knives and pistols were drawn during dispute over priority of claim oyer the land encompassing "Town Site," but the trouble was adjusted without bloodshed. Major N. Crom¬ well was at the head of the successful bidders, the purchase being divided into twelve parts.

In 1829 William Clark made and operated the first permanent ferry at "Town Site." It was made of logs and puncheons. Wm. Haines soon became Clark's successor, and the

The first negro brought to Pekin, Ill., was known as "Black Nance. " She came as a slave, leased to Major Cromwell, to satisfy a debt. This occurred about 1829. As the years rolled by, she gained distinction by being the first black slave freed by the great emancipator, Abraham Lin¬ coln. This case came before the courts and was won by Lincoln when he was known as "Honest Old Abe."

The first jail built in Tazewell coun¬ ty, was made of hewn logs. It was 16 feet square, and cost the munifi¬ cent sum (then - 1829) of $325.75. It was located at Mackinaw, the county seat.

Twenty-Eight Cents Each

In 1829, "Town Site" was surveyed by William Hodge, County Surveyor, the blocks, streets and lots being measured by a combined rope-andleather line. The wife of Maj. Crom¬ well was honored by being called on to name the new town. She selected "Pekin" as an appropriate name for what all expected to become one of the largest cities in the "Great North¬ west Country." Later in the same year William Haines, Thomas Snell, Nathan Cromwell, William Brown and David Bailey, became the sole owners of the "original Town of Pekin," and when the final surveys were made, they found the lots had cost them TWENTY-EIGHT CENTS EACH.

December 29th, 1830, and continued for three days and nights, leaving the earth covered with a white mantle about four feet thick, with some drifts at least twenty feet deep. Many cat¬ tle and hogs, also all kinds of wild game, met death by freezing. The early settlers suffered many priva¬ tions through hunger and cold. Be¬ tween December 24, 1830, and Febru¬ ary 13, 1831, snow fell nineteen times. The sun was seldom seen, and a gen¬ eral gloom pervaded the settlements. Corn that had been left on the stalk in the fields had to be gathered by digging in the snow for it. Many of the brave settlers had to travel on snow-shoes to the more favored pla¬ ces, to secure food and necessaries to save their families from starving. They stood on the crust of the frozen snow and cut off trees for fuel, so high that, after the snow had melted away some time in April, 1831, the stumps left above ground were tall enough for fence rails.

Thos. Snell erected the first school - house in Pekin in 1831, and his son John S., became the first teacher; then later, the first 4th of July orator.

It stood near the southwest corner of Second and Elizabeth streets. On the breaking out of the Black Hawk war, in 1832, it was enclosed by a stockade of split logs, and the enclosure named "Fort Doolittle," as a tribute to the

In the spring of 1831, the county seat was moved from Mackinaw to Pekin, and Judge Samuel D. Lockwood, of the State Supreme Court, presided, and the court was held in the Snell school house.

At the battle of "Sycamore Races," during the Black Hawk war, a com¬ pany of volunteers from this vicinity, lost 11 killed, among whom were Maj. Perkins and Captain Adams. The remainder of the company retreated to Dixon, on the Rock river.

From 1831 to 183(3, while Pekin was the county seat, Joshua C. Mor¬ gan held the offices of Circuit Clerk, County Clerk, Recorder, Master-in- Chancery and Postmaster. He trans¬ acted the business of his various offi¬ ces and lived with wife, four children, his brother, and a young lady, in a house of two rooms. According to our informant, "The entire court and bar, and many others, often spent the evening there." Such was pio¬ neer hospitality.

The first brick building erected in the county, for business purposes, was by David Mark, at the corner of Court and Second streets - 200 Court, Pekin. The rear of this building, fac¬ ing Second street, housed the first

In 1834 the Asiatic cholera made its first appearance. Those living in the river towns, the main thorough¬ fare of travel, became the principal sufferers. Among the number who died in Pekin were Mr. Thos. Snell, Dr. and Mrs. Perry, Mr. Smith, Mrs. Coldron, Mrs. J. C. Morgan, William Haines, et. al.

During 1834, work was begun on the Illinois and Michigan Canal. Af¬ ter its completion, in 1848, the citi¬ zens of Tazewell county had better markets for their products by way of Pekin, Chicago and the great lakes, and received their merchandise from the east more promptly and cheaper.

The old two-story brick building, on Tharp Place street, Pekin, built by Jacob Tharp in 1836, so long occupied by Ansel Haines, (but a few years ago torn down), was used for a brief time as one of the first female seminaries in the west. This is claimed to be the birthplace of the Chicago University.

"What a sudden change!" is an ex¬ pression often heard - but later years have not produced one equal to that of January, 1836: Snow had fallen to the depth of four inches, which was followed by a drizzling rain, leaving the earth covered with slush. A cold wave came from the north¬ west, and so sudden was the change that cattle, hogs, chickens, etc., froze fast where they were standing and had to be cut loose. Men and wom¬ en, out in the fields and away from their homes, nearly froze to death

One of the first great events occur¬ red in Pekin, in 1837. It was an en¬ tertainment given by the noted Jeffersons - father, mother and son, Jo¬ seph - in the "Yellow" school house, situated on the corner of Second and Susannah streets. The performance was frequently disturbed by a litter of pigs, which were in the habit of tak¬ ing shelter under the building. Mrs. Jefferson, who was a talented singer, was so disturbed by their noise while singing "Home, Sweet Home," that she broke down and went off the stage weeping.

The first hotel of any prominence, was the "Delavan House," built by the Delavan Colony, at Delavan, in this county, about 1836-1837. All of the material used in its erection, ex¬ cepting sills and framing timbers, came from the eastern states. In af¬ ter years it was named the "Phillips House." It was destroyed by fire on August 28, 1879.

The longest winter, recorded for this county, since the advent of the white man, was that of 1842-43. It began November 4, 1842, and did not end uncil April, 1843.

The two most noted "great floods" in the Illinois river, since white men have kept record, was in 1844 and 1849, during one of which the water rose to such a height that the lower floor of the old Illinois River Packet Co's warehouse and office was cover¬ ed with six inches of water. The stone walls of the foundation still stand just across Front street, Pekin, from F. A. Yalk Malting Co's office. Such a flood today would submerge the railroad tracks along the river front and the water would flow over the floor of the wagon bridge and endanger the Sugar Works, Distiller¬ ies and Box-Board Factory.

Company G, of the Fourth Illinois Volunteers, in the Mexican War, a Tazewell county command, returned to Pekin on June 7th, 1847, after an active service of one year under Gen¬ eral Winfield Scott.

Amonsr the trophies secured and brought home by Co. G, from the land of the Moutezumas, was a convent bell, taken at Vera Cruz. It was safe¬ ly brought to Pekin, packed in straw in a hogshead, and for many years did service from the belfry of "the old First Methodist Church, which stood on the corner of X. Capitol and Mar¬ garet streets, north of the Farmers National Bank building. When the old church was sold, the bell passed into the hands of the Catholic denomi¬ nation, where it called to worship the members of Saint Joseph's Church, corner of S. Second and Susannah streets. The bell is still in possess¬ ion of Saint Joseph's society, Pekin.

Sergeant John M. Gill, of Co. G, brought back Santa Anna's wooden leg, which had been found in the car¬ riage which the Mexican General had hastily left to avoid capture by the Americanos. It was first secured by a member of Gill's company, who to avoid the burden of it, gave it to his Sergeant, who brought it home. Af- ter preserving it for many years, Mr. Gill presented it to the State, and it has been placed among the trophies in the Capitol at Springfield, Illinois.

In 1848 the county seat was re¬ moved from Tremont to Pekin. The erection of the present court house was begun by a commttee appointed by the Legislature, consisting of Dr. Wm. S. Maus, Thos. N. Gill, James Haines, David Mark and T. J. S. Flint. The funds were contributed almost wholly by the citizens of Pekin, and the building cost about $8,000. The construction was in charge of James Haines, who is the only survivor.

The year 1848 also witnessed the establishment of two so-called "first class" hotels at Pekin. The "Eagle," which stood where the old Tazewell - afterward Bemis House - now lies in ruins. It was kept by Seth Kinman, who afterwards acquired con¬ siderable celebrity as a hunter and trapper in the far West. He pre¬ sented buck - horn and bear - claw chairs, of his own make, to Presi¬ dents Lincoln and Johnson. The other, the "Taylor House," - but af¬ terwards the "Mansion House" - was presided over by Lieut. William A. Tinney, who later distinguished him¬ self by being the first white man in Pekin to lead a negro to the polls to vote.

July 4th, 1851, when the deck hands of a steamboat, who had drank much !'fire water," nearly terrorized the inhabitants of the young city. The citizens rallied to the support of the Marshal, and after a hard fight, the rioters were arrested and fined. The boat officials would not pay their fines, so with a ball and chain locked to a leg of each rioter, they had to work out their fines by repairing the steamboat levee.

The old Tazewell House, afterwards the Bemis House, was erected about 1851-52, by Richard Snell. This was for many years one of the leading hotels of Illinois, and at various times entertained such celebrities as Abra¬ ham Lincoln, Stephen A. Douglas, David Davis, John A. Logan, Robert G. Ingersoll, Col. Edward Baker and many others.

Lender the provisions of the State Constitution of Illinois, adopted in 1847, counties were privileged to adopt either the "County Court," or "Board of Supervisor" form of gov¬ ernment. At an election held in 1849, the latter was adopted. Dur¬ ing the existence of the former Coun¬ ty Court rule, there had been ap¬ pointed a Commission, composed of Benjamin S. Prettyman, Anson Gillem and J. M. Coons, to divide Taze¬ well county into Townships. The work of division began in 1850, and nearly all of the townships were or¬ ganized that year. They began with the townships in following order: Fondulac, T. 26 N. R. 4 W. Washington, T. 26 N. R.2 W.

In 1852, the second county jail, holding 15 to 20 persons, was built at a cost of $7,000. It was a two-story brick and contained offices and stone cells below and Sheriff's family quar¬ ters above. It stood northwest of the present county jail, and faced Court street. The present jail and Sheriff's residence, was erected in 1892.

The first steamboat disaster, occur¬ red Sunday morning, April 16, 1852: The packet steamers "Prairie State" and "Avalanche," southward bound, landed almost simultaneously at the Pekin wharf, both carrying a high (racing) pressure of steam. The for¬ mer drew out from the landing ahead of her competitor, and had reached a point nearly opposite our present gas works, when her boilers exploded with terrific force. It was the church going hour, but the worship of the Deity was changed to the duties of the good Samaritan, and our great

The "Avalanche" steamed down to hearted citizens rallied to the rescue, the wreck and towed what was left of the beautiful "Prairie State" back to the Pekin wharf. Many of the bodies were recovered and placed side by side under the walnut and oak trees that fringed the bank of the river, and everv available house became a temporary hospital. Mr. James Sallee, a passenger from Peru, Illinois, on his way to Texas, inform¬ ed the writer that "the "Prairie State" was crowded with passengers, many of whose bodies, he thinks, were not recovered. The exact loss was never ascertained. The bodies of 110 un¬ fortunates, are reported to have been buried in the City Cemetery near the southern limits of the city.

Tazewell county was represented in the great war for the Union, by the following numbered regiments, to which is added, in figures, the num¬ ber of Tazewell county men, as com¬ piled from the Adjutant General's Report :

MISCELLANEOUS. - Artillery. 5; 20th U. S. Infantry, 11; First Army Corps, 24; 8th Mo. Inft., 47. To which should be ad¬ ded several hundred who enlisted in the Infantry, Cavalry, Artillery and Navy, while out of the county, and were credited to the place where they enlisted or were recruited. It is safe to chronicle that Illinois and Taze¬ well county citizens served in nearly every State and Territory in the Union - (even in¬ cluding the Confederacy.)