Willow Creek Township (part 1 of 4)

Willow Creek Township

The civil township is coterminns with the congressional, which is 38 IST., R. 2 E. of the 3d P.M., and comprises thirty-six sections of the choicest farming land in the most delightful prairie situation in the world. The physical features present a pleasing outline wherever one may go. Standing upon either extremity of the valley of Willow creek, he sees nnequaled farms running back upon the long slopes and across the ridges, which lose themselves in the general elevation of the country, all stretching far away in gorgeous beauty of landscape. The morning sun in hazy autumn bathes the surface in sparkling tints and mellow radiance, and the blue horizon receding into faint lines displays a misty trace of groves and hedges against a background of watery sky ravishing to the view of animate brush or pencil. Elsewhere than upon the borders of this stream the country lies in bold undulations, excepting a narrow strip on the south side.

Eour bodies of woodland are situated in the township, namely : Smith's Grove, Allen's Grove, and the Twin Groves. The first lies in Sees. 31: and 35, mostl}^ in the latter; the second chiefl}^ in the N".W. ^ of Sec. 36, which it mostly covers, and the other two in Sec. 17. The larger of the Twin Groves belongs about equally to the southeast and the southwest quarters, while the smaller occupies the center of the northwest quarter. Side by side they stand ; their name had an obvious origin. The others are named from first permanent settlers.

Willow creek takes its source in Wyoming township, crosses the line into this a mile and a quarter east of the southwest corner, and flows north in a circular course, passing through Twin Groves. On the farm of L. G. Durin, on Sec. 7, it bends directly west, and a little lower down on the same section is joined by East Branch. This cuts the east boundarj^ at the southeast corner of Sec. 12, runs southwest to the corner of Sec. 14, and thence northwest nearly to the point of union with the first stream. Native willows found growing upon the banks of this water-course suggested the name for it, and when the township was organized no more appropriate name for that could be adopted than the one borne by the principal creek.

The population is a mixture principally of Americans, Norwegians and Germans, the first predominating, and the second constituting one-third of the whole. The thrift, industry and intelligence of the

The enumeration was made in 18S0, by Thomas Kelson, Esq., and showed that there were 1,214 souls in the township. One-half the number is of foreign birth. There were 172 farms and 190 farmers. Compared with other sections, the improvements in Willow Creek township are of the first order. Hardly a farm but has a tasteful and spacious dwelling; and the favorite red barns, large and heavily built, contrast pleasantly with the white-painted residences. Planted groves have been reared with universal cai'c, and the willow hedges, which in this township so closely approximate perfection, are the glory of the landscape.

The township was settled nearly simultaneously at all the groves. Peter Gonzolas, a Frenchman, from Dutchess county, New York, came in the fall of 1S3G, and made a claim of the Shoudy farm, at Allen's Grove. He remained onl^- two or three years, and then disappeared suddenly; some say he went west to join the Indians. Before his departure he sold his claim to Richard M. Allen. This was the lirst farm improved in Willow Creek township. To the neighboring grove came an excellent family in 1837. These were the Smiths. The head of these was John Smith, from Argyleshire, Scotland, who had been educated for the ministry. He arrived in August, and bought a claim in Sec. 35, from James Armour. A prior claim to this land had been made by a man named Cameron, who sold it to Armour. Neither of these squatters was here long, the stay of each being too short to compel the erection of a cabin. A few logs had been cut, and that was all that had been done. The claim which Mr. Smith purchased included all of "Dry" Grove (a name given because no creek was near it) except a few scattering trees. This name was borne until 1838 ; when the country' was surveyed into townshi])s in that 3^ear the grove was designated as Smith's Grove in the field notes. John Smith was the first settler at this place, and erected his cabin close to the spot where his son David's house now stands. In December following the family suffered a great misfortune in the loss of this dwelling by fire, together with their clothing, bedding, money, and a large and valuable collection of books. It was roofed with mowed grass, and in this covering the fire caught. This was the second house erected in the township and the first burned. Another was built right awaj^, some ten rods east of the first. Death entered the Smith household about three weeks after their settlement here. John, the second son, was the first to be laid in the family burying-ground. This was the first death of any white person in the township. Robert and David Smith occupy parts of the original claim which belonged to their father, and together own the greater part or the whole of the grove. The father died at the old homestead in 1860. A part of the house where David Smith lives, on the home place, was put up in 1855. Uncle John Colvill, of Paw Paw, came from Scotland with the Smiths, to wliom he is related, and made his home with them some years at first. With the national affection of the Scotch for home-ties, and their tenacity to things of the past, John Smith, same in attachment as the ancient Scotchman who, on emigrating to Canada, thought he could never sleep so well on any other as on his thistle bed, brought it with him only to throw away, by which last act he propagated a dangei'ous pest, - brought also the favorite all-iron plow, supposing, doubtless, that not another plow in all the world could tarn a furrow like that which turns the glebe in Scotland. But the Scotch plow, like many Scotch notions, had to be straightway abandoned on reaching the new west. At that time the steel plow had not been invented, and the then common implement could not be used at this daj^, except its use should be compelled by imminent starvation. What glories shine about thy pathway, O Progress !

Dick Allen, who succeeded Gonzolas, and gave his name to the first settled grove in the township, was a character who could boast no savory reputation. Horse-stealing and counterfeiting were the means of livelihood to the criminal class, whose ranks were full. These lawbreakers were not separated from the rest of men, if we except a few of the more diligent ringleaders, who were constantly roving in their occupation of crime; but they were settled down and living, scattered everywhere among better people. This could not have been but for sparse settlement, which limited the power of the friends of order. To the extent of that limitation the immunity of tlie others was enlarged, and their ability to commit crime and avoid its consequences was still more augmented by their dispersion through every community. Each was deepl}' or not in the business, according to his personal energy; and while these men could not so much escape observation as not to be suspected, it w^as generally impossible to discover enough against them to insure conviction. It was likewise quite impossible to calculate with certainty on bringing an offender to justice on evidence reasonably complete, because allies whom the penalties of perjury were powerless to restrain were not wanting in any place. Besides, officers of the law had been known to be confederates, Allen lived in a log house and kept tavern from the first. The grove was thickly grown up to hazel brush, and was a safe and easy trysting-place for these men. The neighborhood was exempt from their robberies, a shrewd precaution to render their retreat more secure. The tavern was simply a

We do not know the date of Allen's departure, but he was followed at this place, we are told, by a man named Price. Israel Shoudy came in lS4-i, bought Price's claim, and has lived on the place until this time.

In 1839 Horatio G. Howlett came from Dixon, where he had been living two years, and settled at this grove. He is still on the same ground enjoying the golden autumn of a busy life. Having spoken of the insecurity of property in the first settlement of the country, an anecdote of Howlett is apposite to the subject. David A. Town was elected justice of the peace, and Mr. Howlett constable, with the understanding that neither should exact any fees in civil cases. These two men were the inspiration of vengeance in the eyes of those who set the law at defiance, and were chosen to their offices because it was well known that they would act with vigor and decision. One day Town sent Howlett a warrant for the arrest of a man named Lovelin, charged with horse-stealing. He went to Allen's house and was told that Lovelin was in tlie field plowing. Securing the horse, and putting him under guard of another, whom he instructed to take deadly aim with his rifle on Lovelin the moment he should give the order, he went to the field and read the warrant to the man. He was pointedly told by the criminal that he would not go with him. Howlett, unperturbed by this, told him that he could do as he pleased about submitting; that he supposed Lovelin was armed, while he himself was not ; but he should take the horse, saying this with much determination. Lovelin, feeling that he had been victorious thus far, promptly replied that HoM'lett w^ould have to pass over his dead body before he could touch the animal, and both started for the stable. The instant they arrived Howlett demanded his surrender, and receiving a defiant refusal ordered his man to draw a bead at his heart, and to fire when ordered ; then taking out his watch gave him barely a minute to submit to arrest. His hands began to twitch nervously in token that bravado had given place to fear, and he tamely yielded to be handcuffed. Then was taken from him a huge bowie-knife, and pistols. He was bound over, but gave bail and was released. Soon after, he further complicated his situation by stealing Allen's wife and horse. He was caught by his bondsmen, with Allen's assistance, and lodged in jail at Sycamore. He broke out, and lay in a stream of water until nearly dead, to avoid discovery, but was subsequently retaken and lodged in jail at Galena. One day when the jailor's little bo}' carried his victuals to him he succeeded in getting out of his place of confinement, and catching the child in his arms ran to the top of the clifi near by. When the sheriff started in chase he halted him below, and, holding the child between them, made a clever speech in which he conceded the right and duty of the sheriff to pursue and recapture him, but pointed out that he could have no personal motive in so doing beyond that involved in his official obligation, and added that liberty was dear to himself; that he was now free and should continue so at any cost ; and wound up with the terrible threat that if followed another step by the officer he should dash the child down the precipice upon the rocks below. Without recourse, the sheriff naturally enough desisted from the pursuit, and the desperado escaped. The only word of him ever received here was when he was in jail in St. Louis on another charge of stealing. Judges Caton and Drummond, who used to pass Allen's Grove traveling from court to court, told Mr. Howlett of this last episode. This was the first arrest of a horse-thief in Lee county.

The Indian trail from Ottawa north to the hunting grounds in Wisconsin ran through Allen's Grove. The Indians were once paid their annuities b}' the government at this place.

Twin Groves were first named Moore's, from William Moore, the earliest settler there, who began his improvements in 1837 at the south grove. James Thompson and Levi Lathrop came together as early as 1842, and in partnership bought Moore's claim, on which he had thirty acres of plowed land. Moore was paid $50 for the timber claim where the Thompson homestead has always been and aunt Amanda still resides. It is described as the N.W. ^ of S.E. ^ Sec. 17. Not long afterward Mr. Thompson bought out Lathrop's interest. He received a patent for this land, dated July 1, 1845, and three years later another for the S.W. J of S.E. ^. Robert Blair, by marriage brother-in-law to Mrs, Thompson, came here from Malugin's Grove with those we have mentioned, and bought a claim to part of the north grove, but never purchased it from the government. About 1850 he moved back to Malugin's. He died at the house of Mrs. Thompson in the present year, 1881. The first birth at Twin Groves was a son of his, Robert Blair, in 1846. On his settlement here Thompson improvised a shelter with rails - a rail pen, - and covered it with straw ; lived in it several weeks. This was succeeded by a log cabin, scarcely better tor some time than the pen, but after chinking the crevices with rags and shutting out the free and often raw winds, they lived along in unchecked comfort until the rank grass and weeds, which grew in the humid atmosphere of the grove to the height of a man's head, began to decay and give their juices to the air ; then every one of them fell with ague except Mrs. Blair.

Then George Wise and Isaac Gardner, brothers-in-law, started improvements at the north grove ; they did not stay long, but sold to Mark R. Averill. Wise went to California, and Gardner to Florida. Averill's residence here was also short, for in the winter of 1853-4 he moved to Paw Paw, and embarked in trade, having first sold his land to Jacob B. Fisher, who came in the autamn of 1853.

Cnmmings Noe was an early man at Twin Groves, and settled there, as near as we can learn, in 1846. He first set up in a pen similar to Thompson's, which he did not think of calling a house. His home for many years was on the place now owned by B. F. Ellsworth. He and Mr. Thompson and James Smith entered, from the government all of the south grove. This is now owned by Mr. Thompson's widow and William Dnnkelberger. Jacob Fisher's widow and L. H. Dnrin are the present proprietors of the north grove.

The settlers here had at first only Indian trails to guide them across the billowy prairie. The earliest white man's road, though never surveyed, was one staked out by Erastus Noe, from Twin Groves to Hickory Grove, and used many years. Hogs were found runniag wild in these woodlands before any person came to make a home. They probably strayed away from a distant owner, or were lost from a passing drove.

In the summer of 1847 James Smith and Nathan Koons left Franklin connty, Ohio, and came to this township. The latter made a home in the extreme southwest corner, and still owns the original homestead. The former settled at Twin Groves on a tract of 300 or 400 acres which he had previously entered. Joseph Earnhardt came in company with these men. The only buildings at the groves on their arrival was Noe's hasty cabin, already noticed, and Thompson's log cabin and hen-house. The immigrants made a descent on the hennery, drove out the fowls, and occupied the building to sleep in, while they still took their meals in their wagon. It is said they were homesick. Doubtless, l^ext day Shabbona and his tribe came that way. It was in the month of June, still the wind was raw and chilly, and this grand old chief, and as many of his followers as could, huddled behind the wagon for shelter.

Before departing from Ohio Smith cut a willow walking-stick and announced his intention to plant it when he should arrive at his prospective home; and, unmoved by the jibes of his skeptical friends, he predicted over and over again with great confidence that he should raise an immense quantity of timber from it, and realize thousands of dollars. He was not wide of the mark. Cutting the cane into four pieces, he set them in the ground, and in a few years had willows forward enough to furnish a good many cuttings, which the people were glad to get. Daring tlie war a man from Galesburg, named Piatt, bought up the trees growing in this region, prepared and shipped the cuttings in car-loads to all parts of the west, selling them at a good figure, persuading patrons that in willows were just the right qualities for live fence. For some two years this was a thriving speculation, and gave many hands employment. This township has miles upon 'miles of willow hedge growing in great beauty and perfection, it has been so much a favorite for the reason that it furnishes a great amount of wood and timber in a short time, as well as a tolerable enclosure of land, that osage orange has not been able to make any considerable headway against it, although vastly superior for the single purpose of fencing.

Samuel Reese, a young man, came now to live at Mr. Thompson's. Probably the next year, James Stubbs, a bachelor, and a married brother reached this community; the latter died not long after, and the other moved to Mendota. Cyrus and John Goff came as early,, and lived here a few years. The former located his house between the two groves, and kept tavern on the route of travel between Ottawa and Kochelle. L. H. Durin and Gilbert Durin, brothers, came from Vermont in 1849, and settled here, the former on his present homestead. The latter has removed to Steward. These are men of substance and great respectability. Ira Durin did not come till some years afterward. He was a useful citizen and ofHce-holder, who has now moved away.

Wesson Holton, another Green Mountain Yankee, located his family northwest of the groves in 1852, and was many years employed in millwrighting. He has taken an active part in the public affairs of the township and held various important offices. He sent three sons to the army in time of the late war.

William L. Smith arrived in 1853, or earlier, and James A. Harp the next year. Mr. Harp held township office several terms. The first arrival of Byrds, who settled on the north side of the township,, was in 1853. They were from Virginia. There would be nothing ta say of them had they sympathized with their country in the dark hour of pro-slavery, treason and rebellion. Louis P. Braithwaite came in 1853, and Louis P. Smith in 1854.

Returning' now to the neighborhood of Allen's and Smith's Groves^ we mention the later settlers without regard to the order of their arrival. Dr. Basswood came about 1840 and remained four or five years. ISTa thaniel Allen and his family came in 1845. His sons were Harrison,. Nathaniel,Chandler, Ephraim, and Alonzo ; and he had four daughters.

Chandler did not reach here until the following year, when he entered the land where he now lives, the S. -| of S.W. ^ Sec. 26, and the IST. ^ of N.W. ^ Sec. 35. Benjamin Nettleton had settled here as early as this period. Isaac C. Ellsworth, a Yermonter, emigrated from Ohio in the spring of 1846. His son Benjamin he had sent in advance the autumn before with a drove of stock, being compelled by the extreme drouth of that year to remove it from that state. Ellsworth settled on Sec. 34.

Christopher Vandeventer, formerly from New York, arrived here from Michigan in 1848, coming with a two-horse team, and driving sheep and cattle. He made his home where he at present lives, on the S.E. ^ Sec. 24, and built a log cabin. At that time not a house stood between his own and Broady's Grove, 17 miles north. His father settled at the same date east of the grove, in De Kalb county.

As near as we can ascertain the following persons located themselves in the neighborhood of these groves between 1846 and 1855 : Matthew Atkinson, Perry Atkinson, Amos Atkinson, McNabb, Richard R. Walker, Andrew Stubbs, Freeman Crocker, Daniel Maxwell, Sylvanus Staples, Prince Stevens, Hugh Wells, George Clark, Richard Clark, John Piatt, and Alonzo Osborne. Jeptha P. Mittan settled in the southwest part of the township about 1850, and is still residing there.

In the first half of the middle period, as we regard it, German immigration set in, and the first of that nationality to settle in Willow Creek was Gotlieb Hochstrasser, in 1854. A little later, and probably the same year, was Joseph Herman ; in 1856 Frank Bates, Frank Herman and John Herman came, and in 1857 a second Frank Bates and Areheart Hochstrasser. These were all the Germans who arrived up to this date ; after a short interval others made their appearance, the most conspicuous of whom is John Yetler, in 1859. 'Next year George Erbes, one of the solid and reliable men of the township, brought his family.

attributes of a Scandinavian deity, and a little notice of him at the head of this article will not be out of place. He reached our shores in 1837,, and walked all the way from New York to Chicago. From the latter place he started for the Norwegian settlement on Fox river on foot, but being overtaken by a co veiled wagon filled with men, women and children, and being invited to ride with them, got in. He was by this time able to understand a little English, and when two of the men got out and walked behind and talked together about his money, their real character and intentions were revealed to him. He had some money, and no doubt his situation was uncomfortable, until a man and a woman driving a team providentially overtook them, when he leaped out as the charmed bird flies when the spell is broken, and sprang into the other wagon without a word of parting to the one or of introduction to the other. His leap in the dark had brought him to good footing, for this time he had not fallen among thieves, but among some of his own people going home to Fox river, and his journey thither was happily relieved of further unpleasant incident. It has a singular seeming, but is nevertheless a verity, that with scarcely any knowledge of the English vernacular he left all his countrymen behind and pushed forward to Lee Center among strangers, not in habit, sentiment and nationality only, but in language also. This shows him to have had the truly pioneering spirit; he could not have been less than a pioneer. Having obtained work there, it was not long till he was able to start independently, and he settled in Bradford township, where he became wealthy, and his widow, Elizabeth Hillison, j'et resides. In course of time, as a certain consequence, other Norwegians came and settled around him, and as their numbers increased they scattered out, many going early to Sublette township. The first to go was Lars Larsen Risetter, in 1847, who was also the second to come to Willow Creek.

The earliest Norwegian settler here was Amund Hilleson, a single man, who emigrated to Sublette in 1851, and having saved enough from his first year's wages, in 1852 bought the N. E. ^ Sec. 15, his present home, at the government price of $1.25 per acre, and in the spring of 1855 came on it to make his permanent residence. Toiling hei'e year after year with the patient, unrelaxing industry of his class, he has increased in worldly goods and grown in the regards of the whole community until there is no man who stands fairer, and none could moi*e justly so than Amund Hilleson. He was followed early in 1856 by LarsL. Risetter, from Sublette, who had at this time been in the country long enough to secure a considerable start, and who located his family on the S.W. -^ Sec. 15, which is now occupied by his son Lewis. The story of how Mr. and Mrs. Risetter labored with unflagging perseverance in and out of doors, and bought and sold crops and land, combin- ing calculation with severe labor, and making for themselves in a few years a handsome fortune, as well as adding greatly to the consequence and prosperity of the township, is one that cannot be told in our narrow space. But his neighbors say, " No man made money so fast and so fairly by hard work and economy, and from large crops and the rise in values, as Mr. Risetter."

The third Norwegian settler was Edwin O. Winterton, who improved the N.W. ^ Sec. 15 : the fourth was Amund Cragowick ; the fifth was Thomas Hilleson ; the sixth was Lars Salmonson, who began his home in the center of Sec. 16 in the winter of 1860-1 ; the seventh was Ole Olson ; then came Edwin Edwards in the spring of 1862, and bought the IST. ^ of N.E. ^ Sec. 11 ; Lars Oleson in the spring of 1863, and settled with his family on Sec. 10, where he at present resides. Christopher Oleson came about the same time, and in 1861: Jacob Oleson began to improve the N.E. ^ Sec. 1. Heldor Nelson came to the N. E. ^ Sec. 2, and William Oleson to Sec. 16. Later arrivals, without regard to date or order, were Edwin Edwards, N.E. ^ Sec. 11 ; Heldor Eden in the same location ; Lars Hilleson, S.E. J Sec. 14 ; and Nels Oleson, Peter Johnson, Allen Johnson, Andrew Eskland, Lewis P. Boyd, Lars Knutson, Yick Winterton, Thomas Oleson, Christ. C. Alsager, Hans Johnson, Jacob Edwards, Hawkin Risetter, Newt Boyd, and Thomas Nelson.

There are now 400 of this nationality in Willow Creek township ; and concerning the cultivation of the humbler arts of peace and the practice of the soldierly virtues in war, this writer can say from personal knowledge that few equal, while none excel, them.

Pioneer Facts

Chicago was the first trading point for this part of the country, and people went with ox and horse teams, singly and in companies, but generally in companies, as it was not often that a team could make a trip without getting stalled at least once on the road, and it was of no little advantage to have help at hand for every distress. Forty bushels of wheat made an ordinary load. When stuck in a slough the bags of grain had to be carried over on the teamster's back, and the fewer there were to divide the task, the longer and more arduous were the labor and detention. Sometimes the water was deep; then if there were wagons enough they were unloaded, placed end to end across the stream, and with the end-boards taken out formed a bridge that answered well the object of its improvisation.

One time, when uncle John Colvill and David Smith were hauling grain to Chicago, their wagons got set in the mud and they had to carry the bags of wheat across the slough on their backs. In doing this uncle John pulled off his boot-soles and had to go into Chicago barefooted. The hostler, just from Erin, viewing him from head to foot, in innocent wonder broke forth : " Where in the dickens part of the world did ye come from?" The bootless man felt that he must be in sorry plight indeed, but was skeptical of Pat's judgment when, in feeding the horses the rank, coarse slough-grass, then so common, he volunteered the information: "And sure and 'tis the biggest timothy that grows in this country."

Usually a horse-team made the round trip to Chicago in seven days, stopping there just long enough to feed and do trading. Teamsters not infrequently took along cooked provisions and camped out at night when the weather was good. Taverns were not wanting on the road, but the patronage dispensed to them made a heavy inroad into the profits and sometimes wholly consumed them. A pioneer of 1845 says there was then no room in Chicago to put np teams, that he had to sleep and feed his team in his wagon, because accommodations were inadequate. That was thirty-five years ago in a city than which not another in the world, say travelers, is better supplied with facilities for public entertainment. He had taken to market forty bushels of wheat, which sold for sixty cents a 'bushel, and he received twenty cents per bushel for hauling. His expenses were $3.50, leaving $4.50 for seven days on the road with his team. But occasionally a load of merchandise was brought back for hire, and this made a more profitable trip. After the opening of the Illinois and Michigan canal, Ottawa and Peru became trading centers, and when the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy railroad was constructed to Mendota, in 1853, a market was established still nearer, at Earlville. Only wheat and pork were hauled by teams to Chicago, the latter to be sold for $1 to $3.50 per hundred; but when these other points were opened to trade, corn and oats were sold there. Aurora was an important trading place, and a good many did business there, especially as it was where they often went to get grinding done. The grist-mills at Dixon, Fox Kiver, Binghamton, and Dayton's above Ottawa, drew custom from all this region. When one w^ent to mill he took a full load, all the neighbors sending a grist by him ; he would be gone two or three days, and would not have to renew the journey until each of his neighbors had been to mill in the same manner. Cooperation was practiced in everything. In getting stock to Chicago neighborhoods made up droves together. How beautiful was the spirit of this period ! The pioneers avow in sad agreement that if they had the power they would

The first roads in the country were laid out on Indian trails. The Chicago and Galena, and the Ottawa and Rockford roads were surveyed mainly along such traces.

In the beginning Galena exceeded Chicago in size and importance, the lead mines there attracting men in pursuit of labor from parts as remote as the Wabash and the lower Mississippi. Mr. H. G. Howlett has seen as many as twenty teams together pass Allen's Grove in the spring going to Galena, where they would remain through the summer and return in the fall.

For many years buftalo bones were numerous in low places, and the first settlers were told by the Indians that before any of the whites came the buff'aloes perished one hard winter. This was the winter of 1830-1. Snow fell to great depth and blew, into immense drifts ten and twelve feet deep. The cold was intense and prolonged. For more than forty days under a beaming sun the eaves of the cabins farther south did not run. The buffaloes resorted to the low places for tall grass, and great numbers never got away. The following winter, though less severe, was remarkable as well for exceeding inclemency.

Educational

The first school at Allen's Grove, the earliest in the township, was taught in 1848 by Miss Martha Vandeventer, sister to Christopher Yandeventer, in one of Israel Shoudy's log houses. Mr. Shoudy had several of these and was keeping tavern at the time. A Miss Nettleton and Miss Laura Brace kept school in the same place a little later. In the autumn of 1819 a frame school-house was built by subscription on nearly the site of the present one, the land being donated by Shoudy ; and the next winter the first school was taught by Miss Clara Price. Miss Smith, of Shabbona, was an early teacher in this house, and Israel Shoudy says uncle John Colvill trained the shooting ideas of the young in the same place.

The first school ever taught at Twin Groves was in a log cabin in James Thompson's dooryard, the one which he put up on his settlement there. The name of the first teacher is swallowed up in time unless, as has been suggested, it was that of the widow Stubbs, who was an early tutoress. Miss Maria A. Holton, now Mrs. B. F. Ellsworth, taught in this cabin in the summer of 1853. The Twin Groves school-house was built in 1851 by the joint efforts of a number of individuals, and in the autumn of 1857 was purchased by the district at auction. In the winter of 1863-1 it was burned down, and the present house was erected the following summer. Miss Mary J. Fisher taught the first term in the new house.

Mrs. Eilswortli, who kept the first school that summer. Joseph McCoy hauled the shingles and finishing lumber from Earlville, and the house \vas regularly used for religious worship. Another occupies the old site, and David Smith has the old building for a shop.

The Norwegian parochial school was established in 1866 as a part of the Lutheran church system, having for its object the education of the children so that they can be taught the catechism in the language of their fathers. In the beginning the sessions were held in private houses; next in school-houses during public vacations. The Lutheran community embraces parts of Alto and "Willow Creek townships, and is divided into three private districts for select school purposes. Six months' school are held each year, one half in the spring and the other in the fall. Those living in Alto, and nine families in Willow Creek near the town line, constitute the Alto district, and hold their school in Union district, No. 10. They h.ave had two and one-half months' every year since it was instituted. The third, or south district, which has occupied the school-houses in districts No. 5 and 7, has had two and a half months', leaving one month for the village of Lee, where the term is held in the public school building. The school was organized by the Rev. C. G. P. Peterson, preacher in charge, an able scholar and divine. Rasmus Rasmusson, a good old man in the congregation, took control of it for a month and until a regular teacher could be found. The first was Thomas Nelson, who has taught more or less up to the present time. The following other teachers have also been employed at various times: Hendrickson, Christopherson, J. Gossendal, Iver Fanebust, E. Teffre, S. W. Weeks, J. J. Maakkestad, and another who was a student at the time. Only one instructor is employed in the same period; he teaches first in one district and then in another. The school is maintained by subscription, and has about 100 pupils, divided among the three districts. The scholars attend the English public schools regularl}'. The south district built the present year (1881) a private school-house, 18x26, on the southeast corner of Sec. 15, at a cost of nearly $500, including furniture and fixtures, neat patent seats being among the latter. Holden Risetter donated one-half acre of ground for the building site.

The present township treasurer is E. W. Holden. His report for the school year ended June 30, 1881, shows nine public school-houses in Willow Creek, and an estimated value of school property of $5,550. Number of children under twenty-one years of age, 581 ; between six and twenty-one, 372; enrollment, 304; principal of township fund $6,525.08; tax levy for schools, $1,558.68.

Post-Offices

This township has had two country post-offices. The first was the Willow Creek office, called by the people " Twin Grove," where it was established, as near as we can ascertain, about 1849. Robert Blair was appointed first postmaster, but as he moved away about that time he never handled any mail. It was actually established at the house of one of the Goffs, who had it for a short while, and until he removed, in 1850. Gilbert E. Durin now took it until some time in 1853, when it passed into the hands of "William L. Smith. After keeping it for a time he deputized a man named Beckwith, who turned out to be a peculator, and then he took it back to his own house. It is said that James Harp was the next postmaster, and that when the office again changed hands it went to Squire Ira Durin's. We cannot follow all the changes with certainty, but are told that a William Moore was postmaster at one tiine. B. F. Ellsworth was the incumbent from Jul}', 1866, to 1873 ; the office then went to A. H. Knapp's, and from there to Adam Miller's, when it was discontinued about 1875.

The South Willow Creek post-office was established in time of the war, and was kept by Hiram J. Abrams, on the south line of the township, and on Sec. 3i. It was kept up until about 1873.

Pioneer Worship

Pious hearts raised altars to the Most High, and companies of people came together at convenient intervals for public devotion. Elder Baker, a transient Presbyterian, was the earliest regular preacher at Allen's Grove that we have heard of, and held meetings in the Shoudj' school-house. Occasional services by the Rev. Canfield and Elder Wood, of Earlville, and an exhorter named Olmstead, antedated Elder Baker's ministrations. Wood and Olmstead were Methodists. It was the custom of these men to visit all the neighboring settlements, and they preached at Twin Groves as well as here. Elder Smith and the Rev. James Price should also be mentioned. Classes were formed at the school-houses after the inhabitants had become numerous enough to have such meeting-places and to establish an orderly system, but all we can say is that what was done was for the good of souls and the glory of God, for few traces remain of actual occurrences, and the recollections of the good fathers and mothers in Israel refuse these treasures out of the abundance of their forgetful ness. How quick is the good forgotten ! How long doth the evil remain !

The first sermon at Twin Groves was preached by a Methodist minister from Rochelle. The Rev. Richard Haney was the first circuit preacher, and came there with tolerable regularity. He was extremely fond of wolf-hnnting, and never missed an appointment when circumstances favored a good catch. On one occasion he secured seven of the animals, which he dug out of their burrow. Elder Wood preached at the groves several years subsequent to 1853 ; when he began we have no means of knowing. The Revs. Davids and Roberts labored there regularly anterior to 1860.

Political And War History

Formerly what is now embraced in W3^oming, Willow Creek and Alto townships was a part of Paw Paw precinct, and elections alternated between Malugin's and Paw Paw Grove. After the adoption by the county of township organization, in 1849, this territory was formed into Wyoming, wliose dimensions were not changed until 1855, when Willow creek was organized with its present bounds, including the area of Alto township.

Tlie first annual town meeting was held at the Twin Groves schoolhouse in district No. 3, April 3, 1855, and was organized by the appointment of Ira S. Durin as chairman ; A. N. Dow was elected moderator, and G. Bishop clerk, and they were qualified by E. Woodbridge, justice of the peace. The recorded proceedings show that besides the election of otiicers, the running at large of stock and penalties relating thereto were the chief subjects acted upon.

Until 1860 the polls were held at the Twin Groves school-house ; the next two or three meetings, including two special ones, were at the Yroman school-house ; then they were moved to Allen's Grove ; and in 1865 back to Twin Groves. In 1867 and 1868 the Yroman house was again the polling place, and in 1869 the Center school house, the meetings going back again for two years to the Vroman, and in 1872 to the Center house. In 1874 the election was at the red school-house, and the next year at Adam Miller's. At the town meeting in 1874 a resolution was presented by C. M. Bacon and adopted, instructing the town board to take the initiatory step toward procuring a building lot for a town-house near the center of the township, and to report to the next annual meeting the probable cost of each, a site and a hall. John Yetter, supervisor ; L. G. Durin, assessor; Dwight Davenport, town clerk, and Robert Thompson and H. G. Howlett, justices of the peace, reported that one acre on the southeast corner of Sec. 16 could be purchased for S150, and that a building 20x34, with 12-foot posts, would cost about $800. A vote was taken whether to buy and build, resulting with 50 in the afiirmative and 47 in the negative. The house was erected the same season, the whole property costing the township $1,100.

At a special meeting held at the Vroraan school-house October 16, 1869, to vote upon the question of subscribing to the capital stock of the Rock River railroad, 1 vote was cast in favor of and 21 against the proposition. Another called meeting was held at the same place on March 26, 1870, to vote for or against taking stock of the Chicago and Iowa Railroad Company to the amount of $50,000, on the condition that the}' should construct their line within one mile of the center of the township. On this proposal 75 votes were recorded in its favor to 51 against it. The company failed to comply with the condition of the agreement, and the township was thereby released from its obligation. Willow Creek is flanked by these two roads, which furnish all the inhabitants convenient markets without their taking any of the burdens.

In 1861 C. M, Bacon was appointed town clerk, vice A. C. Smith, who moved away. The following have been elected justices of the peace, and possibly a few others whom the defective records do not enable ns to identify: in 1855 Ira S. Durin and Henry Bishop; 1858, H. C. Holcomb; 1860, Joel C. Jackson ; 1862, Ira S. Durin and C. M. Bacon (the latter did not qualify); 1865, R. H. Walker; 1866, M. G. Phillips; 1867, L. G. Durin ; 1868, William H. Dow and Hugh Wells; 1870, William H. Dow; 1872, H. G. Howlett; 1873, W. Holton ; 1874, H. G. Howlett; 1877, R. Thompson; 1881, W. H. Emmett and Thomas Nelson.

During the war the fires of patriotism burned brightly on the altars of the country, but nowhere more brightly than in Willow Creek. She lavished the flower and strength of her yeomanry upon the greedy appetite of war, and the anguished rents in her Spartan firesides tell what woful work was done in the ranks of her sons by ghastly disease and red-handed carnage. Those who remained at home - the old men, the wives, the mothers, the sisters - upheld the hands of the government with exalted devotion.

A Union League was organized late in 1862, when it was feared that the state would be invaded by foes without, and convulsed by enemies within. A membership of about seventy was formed into a company, of which Nathaniel Nettleton was the captain-president. Andrew Stubbs was the marshal of the organization, which assembled generally at Allen's Grove and Yroman's school-house, and was drilled by Joiin Edwards, of Paw Paw, a veteran of the Mexican war. After the presidential election, in 1864, the league fell into neglect.

Before the close of the war the township voted a bounty of $600 to every volunteer who should be credited to Willow Creek after that date. No draft soiled her garments.

We annex a list of the soldiers who went from this township in the time of the war, and though it may not be without error, it is believed to be as correct as it can now be made with no records for authority.

Tornado

The tornado of Sunday, June 3, 1860, struck this township about 9 o'clock at night, midway of the west line of Sec. 18. William Ciitts was within eighty rods of it when it left the township ; he says the noise was not unlike the rattle and clatter of a freight train when standing close to it, except that the former was tremendous in volume. Boards, plows, harrows, timbers, reapers, stoves, furniture, earth, stones, animals, - everything that it could gather in its way was whirling, dashing and crashing with a thundering roar and force that filled the ear with a sound of picturesque terror, as much as if heaven and earth were battling for the same space at once. Andrew Stubbs, standing out of its range as it went by, saw it iirst several miles west, and describes its appearance as it approached and passed.

The night was moonlit, and from where he watched the tempest the moon was visible throughout. Massive pillars of flaming cloud were piled from earth to sk}^ ; the top was a sheet of fire; shafts of electricity, as large to view as a stovepipe, poured in hideous currents down the seething mass of inky blackness, presenting a sight of sublime horror.

The first house in Willow Creek which received its fury was Abram Miller's near the township line. It was unroofed, then taken up, carried over the well and the stable, but failing to clear a straw-stack w^as overturned and scattered in all directions. The occupants were Mr. Miller, Mrs. Miller, and two small children. The mother lay some time under a part of the roof in an insensible condition, having sustained considerable injuries. None of the others were much harmed. The children, sound asleep in their beds when the shock occurred, were blown twenty -five rods into a wheat field, where one of the little fellows was found shouting lustily that all the windows were broken out. A tin boiler standing beside the house, full of water, was not disturbed ; and a book of receipts, brought from Iowa, was picked up on the farm. Gilbert E. Durin's place was the second reached. His house stood nearly out of the path of the electric monster, but a small addition was snatched away and dashed into fragments. James Nealis and another man were blown into the tops of some locusts in the dooryard, and the former was cut so badly in the thigh, on a scythe hanging upon a limb, that he bled nearly to death. A. IST. Dow's premises were the next to sufier. His house was seized as if it had been a toy, carried into the air and turned roof downward, going to pieces in utter

The moving column raised slightly at Twin Groves, through the south one of which it tore a gap ten to twenty rods wide, leaving the undergrow'di but little disturbed, while twisting, splintering and interlacing the taller trees, mostly stalwart black walnuts, in the wildest disorder. The damage to the timber fell chiefly on "William Smith. Thompson's house, a very heav}' structure, was unroofed, an^ the large building moved on its foundation. His strong corn crib and two log stables shared the general ruin. A man named Schieler, living on Thompson's land, had his house demolished, and all seven of the family were severely injured, and horribly begrimed as if violently rolled and dragged in fine dirt.

From this point to Sec. 14 lay a stretch of prairie, and no injury to life and little damage to property were done; but there a house belonging to William Bacon, occupied by Allen Johnson and his sister, ISTorwegians, was wrecked. The inmates, on the first appearance of the storm, had luckily gone to a neighbor's, and thus escaped its terrible fury and danger.

The county line was reached midway of Sec. 13, and here at Allen McConeky's the most painful 'destruction was accomplished. It was now between nine and ten, and the family had retired. Rain had been falling hard but calmly before the crash came, and Mrs. McConeky arose to attend to keeping it out of the windows. The wind began to rise, and in a few moments so increased that she remarked to her husband that the house would blow away. He sprang to her side at the window, and at that instant, she relates, she saw the east side of the house coming in upon them, but can remember nothing more, save that she was conscious of lying on the ground with a heavy weight resting upon her body. The house was shivered to^ atoms. Mr. McConeky Avas killed outright, also the eldest and the youngest boys. Another little son was terribly bruised, and all hope of his recovery was for some time abandoned. Mrs. McConeky had an arm broken. Horses and cattle were killed here as elsewhere in the path of the destroyer.

In this vicinity a boulder weighing half a ton was lifted from the ground and carried some distance ; but the most curious exhibition of power was at the point where the storm ended its work, three-fourths of a mile east of the county line. At this place was a piece of newly broken prairie. The furrows lay parallel with the direction of the tornado, and the tough sods were lapped up, twirled into a close body, and deposited forward in a pile of ten or twelve wagon loads. As if glutted with disaster, the storm now raised, and carrying on its dismal and solitary energies high up in the air, moved on to Lake Michigan, where it lost its identity.

Country Churches

In 1868 a church under control of the Methodist Episcopal denomination was erected on the soutiiwest corner of Sec. 16, jointly by the Methodists, Congregationalists, and United Brethren, and is called the 'Twin Groves Methodist church. The ground on which it stands (one acre) was conveyed by James Thompson and his wife Amanda, to James Thompson, Henry Lewis, Aaron Smith, L. G. Durin, and M. A. Rice, trustees, in trust for the Methodist Episcopal church. In consideration of certain subscriptions by the Congregationalists and United Brethren, they have a guaranty of use upon certain conditions set forth in the deed. A reservation in favor of the Methodist denomination empowers them to annul the joint ownership by refunding to the other societies the respective amounts invested by them in the edifice, whenever they shall deem the sole occupancy of the house necessary. The building is 30 X40, neat and shapely, with a high spire, and cost $3,500. Over half of this sum was subscribed in advance, and the remainder was secured at the dedication, delivering the societies from debt, Mr. James Thompson and aunt Amanda enjoyed the privilege of being the most liberal donors. Besides the site, the former contributed -$1,000, and the latter $630. The house was built by the Rev. Seeley, Methodist contractor, who had taken to supplying pulpits in a manner not contemplated by Holy Writ; the terms of the contract were disregarded, yet the work was accepted, and in 1874 it had become necessary to make extensive repairs, which amounted to $600. The dedication was on November 9, 1868, and the services were conducted by the Revs. F. A. Hardin and A. P. Beach. The first regular Methodist preacher in this house was the Rev. C. C. Combs,'"and the Rev. Brewer represented the Congregationalists. The Rev. Wendell was one of the first, if not the first, who preached for the United Brethren. Among his successors there have been the Revs. Young, Bender, and two Lewises. Following Combs there have been the Revs. Curtis, Farmiloe, Stoddard, Davis, Hoffman, Tibbals, Record, and others whose names cannot be given. Tlie Rev. Record began his ministry in 1879. The most important incident in the history of this church was the protracted effort in the winter of 1868-9, lasting seven weeks and resulting in over 130 conversions. The Rev. Combs conducted the revival on the part of the Methodists. Over 100 united with his society. When he came on the circuit the Methodists here had only nine members, and these were all women ; but during his pastorate the number was swelled to more than 130, including those on probation. These were divided into classes, some of which have had regular preaching, and have become as strong as the parent church. Tlie membership has been reduced by removals to about eighteen. The Congregationalists have nearly all left, and the United Brethren no longer have a class, but the neighborhood keeps up a Sabbath-school. The present trustees of, the church are James Fisher, E. M, Pettenger, George A. Brittain, Richard Phillips, L. G. Durin, Caleb M. Bacon, and one or two others.

The Congregational societ}'-, now disorganized, was first foi'med about 1859. Some of the original members were Ephraim Durin and his wife, Harper B. Davenport and wife, Woodbridge, the Rev. James Brewer and wife, and Simon Cole and wife; Caleb M. Bacon became a member subsequently. The membership at no time exceeded seventeen. This was organized under the Home Mission, from which it obtained aid ; and the first preacher was the Rev. Brewer; the second was the Rev. Henry Buss, and the third and last was the Rev. Breed. A salary of $200 a year was paid the pastors, and services were held in the Twin Groves school-house until the erection of the church. The society was involuntarily disbanded by the removal of members.

In the spring of 1864 the Rev. Jacob Fowler revived the Protestant Episcopal society which had formerly been in existence, and brouofht too^ether some fifteen constituent members. He was a man of kindly spirit and excellent character, and left behind him a reputation as an able and faithful minister. Under his pastoral labors the infant organization grew to respectable numbers, not fewer than thirty or forty, including in the list of the principal ones Adam Miller, Samuel Argrave and wife, Winfield Argrave and wife, Abram Rosenkrans and wife, Lydia Miller, Joseph McCoy and wife, Henry Abrams, Jeptha Mittan, Nathan Koons and wife, and Alexander Beemer and wife. This work belonged to the Shabbona mission, and the first two years the worsliiping places were the Ellsworth and Beemerville school-houses. In 1866 the society, with the outside help furnished, felt itself able to raise a house of worship, and accordingly undertook that object. The house, 30x40, was built at an expense of $2,600; but a contribution of $1,800 was obtained in Chicago through the exertions of Elder Fowler. The dedication took place on Sunday, August 6, 1866. The Rev. Madison Handy succeeded as the second pastor, and during his charge also the church prospered. He, too, was a man of gentle spirit and manners, and was followed by the Rev. A. C. Wallace, whose earthly warfare unhappily brought the tottering society to a violent fall. Having become too weak to maintain preaching without assistance from other people, and being in arrears to the pastor in the sum of $500, he procured a judgment in the circuit court, levied upon the church, and sold it under execution. It fell to him under the hammer, and he disposed of it in 1874, to the United Brethren society,

The membership of the society now owning this building is contained almost entirely in Willow Creek, which name the society bears. The organization dates from 1857, with twelve original members. The lirst pastor was the Rev. Adams, the first class-leader C. ISToe, and the first trustees R. Hall, C. jSToe and H. Lewis. The number of members is twenty-four. The present minister is J. L. Harrison ; class-leader, J. M. Able ; trustees, R. Hall, J. M. Able and C. Allen. Fifty scholars form the Sabbath-school.

The Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran church of Lee county was first organized in the fall of 1858, by the Rev. Didrikson, who made one visit to Bradford township. The members were widely scattered in Sublette, Bradford, Lee Center, and Willow Creek, and meetings were at first held four times a year, and distributed to the several townships. The Rev. A. C. Preus came after the church was put in working order, and ministered to all the people of this faith. Meetings began to be held more frequently, and the worshipers here assembled at the Byrd and Twin Groves school-houses. The Lutherans gradually left the other townships and settled in this and Alto, and when they erected their present church, in 1864, twenty or more families were in the community. We can mention the following: Amund Hillison, Lars L. Risetter, Lars Salmonson, Jacob Oleson, Heldor Nelson, Jacob Peterson, Holden Peterson, Lars Oleson, William Oleson, C. Christopher, Edwin Winterton, Lars Hillison, Haakn Risetter, Thomas Hilleson, Christian Hillison Sexer, Omund Oleson Cragvick, and the Boyds. The Rev. Preus remained over the congregation a year or two and gave way to the Rev. C. J. P. Peterson, under whose charge the church was built and the parochial school established. This church is the most graceful and stately edifice of the kind in the township. Its location, in a beautiful and commanding spot from which one may view the country for miles in almost any direction, adds much to its attractive appearance. A lofty, beautiful spire pierces the clouds, and arrests the eye at a great distance. The house is 34xG0 feet, substantially built, and cost $3,500. It is situated on the northeast corner of the W. ^ of N.E. ^ Sec. 11. A parsonage of twenty acres on the town line is the property of the church, and is described as the E. ^ of N.W. ^ of K W. ^ Sec. 2. It was purchased in 1870, for $10 per acre, and the same year the south part of the residence was built. In 1875 the main or front part was added, completing the building for $1,700. The present year (1881) a barn has been put on the premises at an expense of $200. The place is neatly kept and ornamented with evergreens and the common varie- ties of deciduous trees. The deacons are H. Nelson and Yick Williams, and the trustees are Thomas Nelson, Einar Buer, L. Helland and O. P. Boyd. Since the Rev. Peterson the following pastors have been settled here: G. O. Jnkam, P. A. Rasmusson, J. Tackle and J. Nordby. The salary paid is $450, which is increased by incidentals from baptisms, funerals and marriages to $600. The congregation numbers 460. A Sabbath-school is kept up through the pleasant part of the yeai', and at the present time it has a membership of seventy^ under the superintendency of the pastor, who, according to the custom of this church, has the charge of such schools. Instruction of the children for one year, beginning at the age of fifteen, is attended toone day in everj' week by the pastor, and is called "preparation for confirmation." At the end of the course they are confirmed, and become a part of the visible membership of the church. In the churchyard a few graves have been made. The first burial was that of Thomas, son of Lars L. Risetter, who died September 23, 1864.

The Zion church of the Evangelical Association belongs to the Rochelle circuit, and holds services once a fortnight. Its thirty-three members are all Germans. For six years prior to the organization, in 1868, at the Byrd school-house, regular preaching was had tliere every two weeks by one or other of the following ministers : J. M. Sindlinger^ Henry Messner and L. B. Tobias. Some of the most prominent original members of the class were William Dunkelberger and wife, John G. Yetter, John Tetter and wife, Philip Yetter and wife, Gotlieb Hochstrasser and wife, George Hochstrasser, Julia Yetter, and Mary Hochstrasser. William Dunkelberger was the first class-leader. The society was organized by the Rev. John F. Shnee, who continued asthe first pastor. His successors have been the Revs. G. M. Young,_ John Schweizer, A. Gotschel, A. Strickfaden, C. Ghestatter, J. K. Schulz, and the present pastor, J. J. Lintner. The first trustees were John Yetter, William Dunkelberger, and J. L. Lutz, and the present ones are John Yetter, Christ. Rothe, and Peter Wagner. A flourishing- Sabbath-school is well attended the year round ; seventy-three scholars are now enrolled, with John Yetter as superintendent. Mr. Yetter hasfilled this responsible position ever since before the organization, and has been a class-leader in the church several years. The society ownsa tasteful and substantial house of worship, standing on the southeast corner of Sec. 5. It was erected in 1875 at a cost of $3,000, including the lot which it occupies. The dimensions of the building are 32 x 46 feet, and the dedicatory services were held by Bishop Jacob J. Escher.

Mass was first read to the German Catholics by Father Westkam,. of Mendota, at the house of Peter Kimbler, about 1863. At that time there were Peter Buchholze, Peter Schneider, John Herman, Joseph

Herman, Frank Herman, Frank Bates, Thomas Down, Frank Bates, jr., Peter Kimbler, and six other families who joined in the organization. Only ten of these were permanently settled in the township. Father Westkam advised the immediate building of a^church, and nearly $2,000 were at once subscribed. The next year a house built of stone and costing some $3,000 was erected on the northwest corner of the S.W. ^ Sec. 16; the main building is 26x40, Mnth an addition sometimes nsed for a school in which the children receive instruction in the technical education required by their religion. John Harman donated four acres of ground for a churcln-ard. The first priest who celebrated mass in this church was Father Nigg, of Mendota. Fathers Goldsmith, Gobbels, Anthon Butter, Frank Schriber, Fi-alech, Joseph Baenak and Charles Hahn have been the later celebrants. Father Hahn, the officiating priest at the present time, comes from Chicago once a month. Fifteen families now constitute the membersliip of the church.

A German Lutlieran society was organized in 1870 by the Rev. William Halleberg, at the Byrd school-house, with the families of the following-named jjersons: George Erbes, Ehrhard Ilochstrasser, George Hochstrasser, Godford Gherich, Lewis Gherich, William Hackmann, Henrj^Schultz, Jacob Rubel, Jacob Scheinholtz, and John Scheinholtz. Preachers have served this society in the following order : Eevs. William Halleberg, Charles Weinsch, John Feiertag, H. H. Norton, W. O. Oetino', and W. Krebs. There are now eight families who hold meetings at the Byrd school-house once in five weeks. They have a Sunday-school superintended by the pastor on preaching Sabbaths. George Erbes has been the trustee from the beginning.

A society of Dunkards was organized at the Byrd school-house in 1863. Occasional meetings had been previouslj' held in other places. The original members were eight in number, as follows: John Toft and his wife Margaret, Alva R. Harp and his wife Amanda, William Vroman and his wife Elizabeth, and D. C. Yroraan and his wife Catherine. Their numbers finally increased to eighteen. The Rev. John Fillmore settled in the township soon after the organization and was the only minister the society ever had. A. R. Harp was the first deacon. Services were held at the Byrd, Beemerville and Twin Groves school-houses. At the end of three or four years the members removed to Marshall county, Iowa. An organization of Dunkards holds regular services still at the Byrd school-house.

The subjoined notes relating to pioneer history should have appeared under their proper heads. As early as 1844, and from that date for eight or ten years, regular preaching was had at Allen's Grove. About 1848 a Presbyterian society was formed, and maintained an existence several years. The Revs. Baker, Breed, and another, were the preachers.

A family of Littletons came to Smith's Grove near 1845, and the younger >members lived there until recent years. A Scotch family of Platts arrived about 1854 from Aurora, but were originally from Prince Edward's Island.

Besides churchyards and some private burial lots there are the Ellsworth and Twin Groves cemeteries, both desirable locations for sepulture. The former is on the south side of the public road and of Sec. 34, and obtained its name from Isaac C. Ellsworth, on whose farm it was laid out. iThe other is situated on the S.W. ^ of S.E. J Sec. 17, adjoining the public road, on a prominence falling off on every side, and washed on the north by Willow creek. Mrs. James Thompson gave one acre and sold half an acre more for this site. It is held in trust by the school trustees of the township, who sell the lots for $5 apiece. Several handsome monuments have been set up in this beautiful city of the dead. Each, Darin, Miller, Eees and Tetter, have one, and the Thompsons two.

Village Of Lee

This flourishing village is situated in the counties of Lee and De Kalb, the part on this side of the line being on the northeast corner of the S.E. i Sec. 1. The Chicago and Iowa railroad was completed tothis point in the autumn of 1871, and at once a movement was begun to inaugurate business. From a slight beginning has grown a live town, bristling with activity, running over with trade, and from which more produce is shipped than from any other station on the line. The population is largely, if not principally, Norwegian.

The first building put up was a small one by Christopher & Jorgens, which was used for a grain office and grocery. J. Cheasbro built an office at the same time and started trading in grain, coal and lumber. Both firms had their offices up in the fall, but transacted no business until after ISTew Year's. R. J. White built the first store in the spring of 1872, on the northeast corner of Main and B streets, and soon after a post-office was established and he received the appointment of postmaster. His partner, named Knight, sold out after three months to A. B. Trask ; the latter disposed of his interest to Henry Moore, and he to W. H. Bryant. The firm then added farm machinery to their trade. In 1874 White retired, and Mr. Bryant accepted the appoint- ment of postmaster, and has been the incumbent of the office until now. After three years he disposed of his store, and has since dealt only in agricultural implements.

After White, J. Johnson started next in a general store on the west side of Main, between A and B streets. In July, 1872, the railroad switch was finished ; freiglit began at once to be delivered, and then the place took a sudden advance. Abel Downer opened the third general store, including a stock of drugs, on the southwest corner of Main and B streets. Ostewig & Leyder started the same season in hardware.

The first dwelling was built by James Minnihan in 1872; the next March W. H. Emmett erected the second ; and in 1874- others went up, among these Mr. Christopher's, east of the track. -

Frank Bacon built a hotel on B street, in the early winter of 1872-3; in 1874 A. B. Trask built the second, which is now the only place of public entertainment, and is called the Clifton House, a well kept establishment, of which John A, F. Lambert is proprietor.

The north elevator, built by J. Cheasbro, went up in the fall of 1872, and immediately in the winter following Christopher & Jorgens erected the south one. The first butcher shop was opened on B street, east of the track, in 1872; next year William Finton moved it onto Main street, north of B, where he has enlarged it, and now occuj^ies it for a market and dwelling. Miss Margaret Edsall, first milliner and dress-maker, opened rooms in 1873. The present drug store, kept by W. F. Forbes, was built in 1873 for a saloon, and the next year moved to its present location on B street. In 1873, also, Lars Holland put up a wagon shop, and Iverson & Espe a smithy. These shops and the elevators were on the east side. The same year N. D. Schoenholz built a harness shop, L. L. Risetter a store and dwelling on the southeast corner of Main and B streets, Lars Midnes a notion store, Knudt Tyson a photograph gallery, and Trask a store and dwelling, first occupied by C. H. Rathburn, and afterward sold to John Dyas for a saloon. Cheasbro sold his elevator and lumber-yard this year to McLean, West & Co.

Stevens and Prestegard built a hardware store on Main street in 1875, and B. H. Skoyles began the grist-mill, finishing it the next year. In 1879 Christopher & Jorgens remodeled their elevator and put in a stationary engine and wood-working machinery. The present year (1881) Sardis Yosburgh erected a handsome brick store on the northeast corner of Main and B streets. This is the first brick structure raised in Lee.

The village was incorporated in 1874, and the first board of trustees, consisting of James G. Boardman, Arthur McLane, William R. Baumbach, A. B. Trask, and W. H. Bryant, held their first meeting

August 11. McLane was chosen president, and John Johnson clerk of the board. The trustees for the current year are P. P. Hill, president; William W. Hallett, clerk ; W. H. Emmett, T. P. Dalton, H. W. Johnson, and K. O. Ostewig. This town, no more exempt than others from annoyance, has been, like them, plagued with the saloon nuisance. In the spring of 1878 the party opposed to licensing the sale of liquors came into power, and have since that time been in the ascendancy. This good achievement was originally due to the revival efforts of Mrs. Trego, from Ohio, a temperance lecturer who came and held meetings two weeks.

The first school was opened in December 1874, in the Dyas building, with W. H. Emmett as teacher. In the summer of 1875 Miss Eva Bryant taught the school in the Midnes building, and the following winter it was kept in the same place by Henry W. Davidson. In the spring of 1876 Miss Margarett Edsall taught a term in the shop she had formerly occupied in the millinery business; and that summer the district built the present school-house. In this building Miss Hampton kept the first term ; J. L. Johnson then had the school two years, and the later teachers have been Miss Mary Griffin, J. W. Shanks, William H. Hallet, and Mrs. George Lattin. This is a union district, and Henry E. Daniels, Charles Childs and A. B. Trask were the first directors.

A converted Jew, calling himself Prof. Ryder, delivered the first public discourse in the fall of 1874, in the Dyas building, which had been used for a saloon. The room was not yet cleared of the rubbish of the ungodly traffic, and the seats were made by laying planks upon the empty beer kegs found on the premises. The same day a union Sabbath-school was organized in this house, and W. H. Emmett was elected superintendent. Preaching was now begun here by the Rev. Nicholson, of Shabbona, for the Methodists, and the Rev. Clouse, of the same place, for the Baptists. The next summer the public and the Sabbath schools, and the religious meetings, were removed to the Midnes building, where each was regularly held until the school-house was erected, in 1876. The two denominations held alternate services up to the time that the Methodists built their church, in 1877, when the Baptists discontinued their meetings about a year. They have since used the Methodist church every other Sabbath. Elder Clouse preached until January 1, 1879, and the Rev. E. W. Hicks since that date. The Methodist ministers after the first have been Pomeroy, one year ; A. B. Metier, two years; Dickens, one year, and W. H. Records, one year. The Sabbath-school has always been a union one. W. H. Emmett was the first superintendent, for two years, the school then lapsed the same length of time and was revived with Samuel Hender- son for superintendent. He was followed after the second year by J. W. Shanks for one year; then W. H. Emmett returned to the position six months, and now T. P. Dalton has it.

The Methodist church, built in 1877 and dedicated December 30, cost nearly $2,000. In the following April the steeple was struck by lightning, causing a damage of $125. The house is a gothic, 28x42, durably constructed, with a chaste exterior, and surmounted by a neat spire. It stands in De Kalb county.

Before the Catholic church was built in Lee, people of that faith had to travel long distances to attend mass; the nearest was at Twin Groves on the west, where services are held but once a month. It was thirteen miles to Rochelle, eighteen to De Kalb, and twenty to Sandwich. In view of the needs in this matter, in the spring of 1878 M. P. Harris, John Kennedy, James Kirby and Bernard Malloy started the scheme for building a church in this place. Kirby was designated by them as treasurer, and Harris acted as secretary. These men went to the Catholics living in the adjoining country, and from those who would give to the object they took good notes, bearing ten per cent interest, and in three days raised $3,000. John Kennedy, James Kirby and Stephen Kirby divided the notes equally among themselves as collateral, and each advanced $1,000. The men first named now went forward and built the church. John Kennedy gave one acre of ground where the building stands, and this, with his cash contribution, amounted to $500, the largest sum donated by any person. The house cost $3,200. It occupies a sightly location in the west part of the village, and is 10x60 feet on the main foundation, with an extension in the rear running back eighteen feet. It was dedicated in the autumn of 1878 by Father Yerdin, vice-president of the St. Ignatius College, Chicago. Father Edwards, of Rochelle, was the priest in charge when it was built. Mass is celebrated every other Sabbath by the Rev. Father Tracy, of the same place.

Biographical

BoBEKT Smith, farmer and stock raiser. Paw Paw Grove, son of John and Jane (Colvill) Smith, was born in Argyleshire, Scotland, June 22, 1822. Emigrating with his parents in 1837, he reached Ottawa in July, and the next month arrived at Smith's Grove, so named from his father, the first settler. This designation was given by the government surveyors. Prior to this the place had borne the name of Dry Grove, for the reason that it was watered by no stream, and two claimants had been in possession, namely, Cameron, who sold to James Armour and he in turn to John Smith. The claim included all the woodland except a scattering growth, and lines called for no attention at this period, for none had yet been established by survey. Neither house nor cabin had been built and only a few logs cut. The family located on Sec, 35, "Willow Creek township, and erected a cabin on or near the present site of David Smith's house. In December they were rendered houseless by fire, but the loss of house was the smallest damage, for with plenty of timber at hand that could speedily be replaced, but not so with the gold and silver coin lost in the ruins, and the clothing, and bedding, and fine large library of books dissipated in smoke and air. This was the second house built in this neighborhood and the fii'st burned in these parts. A second cabin was erected by the Smiths a few rods east of the first, and soon they had relapsed into routine ways, with too many frontier cares for time to contemplate sadly their diminished wardrobe and furniture, but it was no easy matter for a reading family to become reconciled to the loss of their books. Besides the subject of this sketch the Smith children were John, Alexander, Martha, and Jane. Alexander was born on arrival at Ottawa, and John died in August, immediately after the settlement at Smith's Grove. This was the first death in Willow Creek township. The family remained together until Martha's marriage to William Hopp, about 1840. Mr. Smith's present farm is a part of the original claim. He made entries of land at different times directly from the government. Tiie first pieces were the S.E. ^ and the ]^. W. J of S.W. ^ Sec. 35. He owns 290 acres, in the highest state of improvement, hedged with willow and osage orange, containing valuable orchards, and a beautiful two-story residence, with arcade in front and elegantly furnished throughout. This place, known all over the country as Willow Farm, has a high reputation for the natural beauty of its location and a variety of cultivated attractions, which denote the rare taste of its possessor. In an article upon this delightful country seat the " Amboy Times " says : " The Willow Farm, the residence of Robert Smith, two and one-half miles north of West Paw Paw, is an exhibition of art and nature combined, to show what could be done to harmonize discordant elements and to grow into symmetry a beautiful homeresidence in this great State of Illinois. Mr. Smith's father came to this country in an early day and selected this choice spot now matured into a paradise. . . . All in all this impresses one with a love for a country home." Mr. Smith was united in marriage with Miss Harriet M. Paisley, daughter of John H. and Jane M. (Low) Paisley, of Wayne county, Pennsylvania, December 26, 1856. Mr. Paisley was reared in Philadelphia and Mrs. Paisley was a lady of French extraction, from whom, doubtless, Mrs. Smith inherited her exquisite love of the beautiful. Three children have blessed their union and inspirited their home with the sunshine and gladness of domestic joy : Ella G., a graduate from the Jennings Seminary, at Aurora, whose accomplish- ments in the fine arts are of a high order, is the wife of Teal Swarthout, of West Paw Paw, Bertha B., now Mrs. William Crompton, living near Cliatsworth, Livingston count}', displayed at a very early age a delicate poetic taste and power, which suggests at once a recollection of those fairies of verse, the Davidson sisters. When fifteen years old her poems, appearing under tlie name of " Bertie," were admired and received appreciative comment. One piece, written when she was fourteen, entitled "Would that I were a Child Again," leads the reader to think of the writer as one of mature years. Clyde W., the youngest child, is living at home. He has been about two years in attendance at the Classical Seminary at East Paw Paw, and this season will enter the Chicago University to fit himself for the practice of the law. Mr. Smith is a republican in politics. He has held township office and was the first supervisor of Willow Creek township.

David Smith, farmer and stock raiser, Paw Paw Grove, son of John and brother to Robert Smith, was born in Argyleshire, Scotland, Jul}' 16, 1831. His father was thoroughly educated for the ministry in the Presbyterian church, but abandoned his purpose to become a farmer. In 1837 he came to America and located with the rest of the family at Smith's Grove, which received its name from his father, as the original settler at that point. In December after arrival the cabin which they had erected was burned down, and nearly all their effects, including a large and valuable library, were lost. His father in trying to remove a trunk containing all the coin they had and other articles of value was burned in the face by ignited tallow streaming down froin overhead, and was obliged to drop the trunk and leave it to be destroyed with its contents. This misfortune made him destitute, and he had to bu}' corn on credit at $1 per bushel. It was seven years before he could pay for it, and the same time elapsed before he was able to save $50 to buy forty acres of land. He gave for his claim in the first place $150. While struggling in the midst of straits and difficulties a cousin in Scotland sent him $100, which seemed at that time like a special providence hi the form of a small fortune. To raise the $50 mentioned he sold cows at $7 apiece and a very fine young mare at $35. At that time three-year-old steers would bring but $!!- People hauled pork to Chicago and sold it for $1.50 to $2.50 per hundred. Potatoes delivered there brought thirty cents,' and wheat frequently no more than forty cents per bushel. At the Farmers' Hotel, in that city, a man could get supper, lodging and breakfast, and hay for his team, all for fifty cents. When Mr. Smith's father died, in 1860, he had three hundred acres of land as the reward of his industry, privations and self-denyings. The mother did not survive long after their arrival in Illinois, but died in 1840. Deer abounded here in great numbers, and wolves were so nnmerous that the repeated attempts at sheep husbandry were aggravating failures. Young Smith embraced such opportunities as there were for schooling, and obtained a fair education by attending winters until he was of age. His earliest teacher was Robert Walker, who taught first on the town place, and to whom he went six terms. Another of his instructors was a man named Smith. His school was on the west side of Peru street north of the depot in West Paw Paw. Mr. Smith is the owner of several choice tracts of farming land. In his homestead on Sec. 35 are 110 acres and across the road in Wyoming in Sees. 1 and 2 and 330 acres more. In Sec. 3 of Wyoming and Sec. 34 of Willow creek are 112 acres, and in the latter township in Sec. 26 are 120, and Sec. 33 still another piece of 80 acres. On the death of their mother, about 1864, Mr. Smith received into his family nine nephews and nieces over whom he has exerted a truly benevolent and fatherly care. Three have died, three are doing for themselves, and the others are still at home. None of his nieces have married. To each of the boys he gave $1,000 when twenty-one. Since reaching manhood Mr. Smith has been most of the time in office. He was assessor several terms, and school trustee and treasurer fourteen years.

Nathaniel A. Nettleton, deceased, was born in Ireland, September 30, 1829. About 1843 his parents, Benjamin and Maria (English) Nettleton, with their family came to Sterling, Illinois, and in 1845 removed from thence to Smith's Grove, in this county, where they bought a farm in Sec. 35, Willow Creek township. This is now owned by Philip Pierce. After Nathaniel became of age he worked out, rented farms on shares, and traveled according as circumstances favored his so doing. On December 28, 1858, he was married to Miss Jane Smith, daughter of John and Jane (Colvill) Smith. Shortly after this event he bought the Bishop farm, adjoining the home-place on the west. In February, 1865, he enlisted in Co. I, 15th 111. Inf., and was taken sick while in camp in Chicago. He was furloughed to come home and recruit his health, and three weeks later died at his residence, of inflammation of the lungs, contracted by exposure in the barracks. A sudden change in the weather found the soldiers without an adequate supply of blankets. Mr. Nettleton was interred in the Ellsworth burying-ground. His widow, thus bereft, had the sole care and training of thi'ee small children fall to her lot, but by judicious management she has been able to keep her family together and to save her home. All the children are still with their mother. These are Cora, Harley, and Arthur. The eldest is twenty-one and the youngest nearly eighteen. Mr. Nettleton's father was a carpenter, and not in very easy circumstances when he came to this state.

Leavis M. Faikciiild, farmer and stock raiser, Paw Paw Grove, was born in New York, June 22, 1831. When he was five years old his parents, Samuel P. and "Willmot (Ogden) Fairchild, moved to Canada, where they resided eighteen years. Early in 1850 our subject apprenticed himself to the blacksmith trade at Mount Pleasant, learning it in three years, together with carriage ironing and all kinds of work appertaining to this business. In the spring of 1853 he came to Lee Center, this county, and worked one year; after that he was employed at West Paw Paw by James Symonds and made the first stirring and breaking plows and corn cultivators ever manufactured in the place. He was married here December 3, 1854, to Elizabeth, daughter of Oliver Edmonds, of Shabbona, De Kalb county. Her father was an early settler near Washington Grove, in Ogle county, to which place he came in 1838 and made a claim of 160 acres, which he sold to John Edwards. In 1855 Mr. Fairchild removed to Amboy and the following spring went by ox-train overland to California, making the journey in three months. He was on. the Pacific coast less than four months and returned via ISTicaraugua and Graytown. Early next year he located at Shabbona Grove and worked at liis trade two years. In 1859 he bought 120 acres in Sec. 33, Willow Creek townsliip, where he now resides, and to this subsequently added a tract of eighty acres. In 1862 Mr. Fairchild enlisted in the 75th 111. Inf. He fought at Perryville, where he was three times struck with bullets ; one was stopped by the brass on his belt and another lodged in his pocket-book. At Stone River he was captured by the enemy and escaped, but was retaken the next day. He had been in their hands but two hours the second time when Col. Brownlow led a cavalry charge on the Murfreesboro pike and rescued the prisoners, including Mr. Fairchild. During Mr. Fairchild's absence his wife, quite as heroic as any soldier in the field, remained on the farm plying her lonely cares and waiting with fortitude for her husband's return. From December, 1864, till the next September James Pike, of the 1st Tenn. reg. (rebel), was the hand in charge of the place. He was a prisoner and enlisted in our navy, but by reason of a wound was rejected and Mr. Fairchild got permission to send him to work on his farm. Tlie subject of this sketch had three brothers in the 13th 111. Inf. He is a republican and a Mason, and belongs to the Metiiodist church, of which Mrs. Fairchild is also a member.

Lewis E. Durin, farmer and stock i-aiser. Steward, was born in Newfane, Windham county, Vermont, March 8, 1820. His parents, Ethan and Mary (Gates) Durin, were of English descent. When our subject was fifteen his father moved to Franklin county, Vermont, where he owned a farm. Lewis stayed at home till he was twenty-one, and his health having become inij3aired he spent his twenty-second year at Saratoga Springs. The next seven years he worked most of" tlie time as a laborer. In 18i9 he came to Rockton, Winnebago county, Illinois. In the autumn of 1850 his brother Gilbert arrived from the east, and the two together entered, in Sees. 5, 6, 7 and 8, pieces of land aggregating half a section. In 1853 the parents also came west, and from that time until their death, in 1865, they had their home with Lewis. The mother died February 23 and the father April 11, On February 8, 1854, Mr. Durin was married to Miss Margaret Rees, daughter of Thomas and Margaret Rees, of Virginia. They have had four children : Martha died in 1861, at the age of six and a half years ; Ida M. lives at home ; Ada E. is the wife of W. W, Brittain, and William G. is at home. Mr. Durin has made a number of changes in his farm, by selling off and buying again, to bring it to that standard which his fancy approves, and now it is one mile square and contains many pleasing and valuable improvements. The grove is a feature that cannot fail at once to attract notice. It covers four acres, one half is white ash, the other European larch and a few soft maples, the whole regularly arranged in rows. The value of his land is much enhanced by the fine buildings which it contains. There are seven principal ones. His beautiful residence stands Bear the site of his old house. Two barns are each 30x50, one is 30x68, the hay barn is 30x40, the corn barn 24x50, the carriage-house 20x30, and the granary 16x24. Mr. Durin is a republican in politics. He has been four times elected assessor. His brother, Ira S. Durin, for some ten years justice of the peace of Willow Creek township, will be remembered as prominent in the early history.

E. W. HoLTON, farmer. Paw Paw Grove, son of Wesson and Hepsibeth (Durin) Holton, was born in Vergennes, Yermont, May 21, 1839. His father was a millwright. In 1853 he moved west and settled at Twin Grove, where he still resides. Edmund lived with his grandfather Holton at Dummerston, in his native state, until the next year after his father's departure, when he ran away, and by the aid of a little money given him by an uncle reached Chicago. Arriving on Sunday he asked for entertainment at the first house he saw, and was kept till Monday. The man being a workman in a machine shop he accompanied him to his work in the hope of getting something to do for money to continue his journey, but his entertainer was generous enough to raise $5 for him and he went on his way with gratitude in his heart. He came directly to Twin Grove, knowing that here he should find his father and the Durins. He worked the first year for his uncle, Ira Durin, and after that was at homo with his father till his majority. Beginning in the autumn of 1860 he worked by the month for nine months at Prophetstown, Whitesides county. In August, 1861, he volunteered in Co. B, 34tli III. Inf., and the tirst engagement in which this command participated was at Corinth. Mr. Holton was taken serioush' ill at Nashville and was discharged on surgeon's certificate. Tliis sickness disqualified him for labor during the first year at home. On December 25, 1862, lie was united in marriage with Miss Cordelia Mittan, daughter of Jeptha Mittan. In the fall of 1863 he took his father's farm and worked it twelve years, and in October, 1875, bought his present home, an improved farm of eighty-six acres, on Sec. 20. Mr. Holton is a republican. His four children are Elmer D., Arthur E.., "Wesson, and Larilla. His grandfather, Wranslow Holton, is living, at the advanced age of ninety-two.

DwiGHT Davenport, farmer and stock raiser, Paw Paw Grove, son of Erastus and Pamelia (Dayton) Davenport, was born in Delaware county, New York, June 15, 1829. His father was a farmer in good circumstances, who had eleven children. At the age of ten our subject went to live with his uncle, Charles Davenport, a merchant at Angelica, Alleghany county, New York. Here he attended school at the Alleghany Academy fonr years, and was graduated in the class of 1850. The remainder of the time he was clerking in his uncle's store, until 1859, when he came west and settled in Willow Creek township, buying 120 acres of wild land in Sec. 27, on which he is still residing. On January 31, 1854, he was married to Miss Margaret Hickman, daughter of Abram and Esther (Searles) Hickman, of Lansing, Tompkins county, New York. They have reared one son, Charles T., who married Miss Mary, daughter of Andrew Stubbs, an adjoining neighbor. In 1881 Mr. Davenport erected a fine new house on his premises, which is 18x34 in the main part, with a wing 18x22, two stories and a basement. Politically he is a republican.