Mitchell, Sarah bio

Portrait and Biographical Album of Fulton County, Illinois: containing full page portraits and biographical sketches of prominent and representative citizens of the county: together with portraits and biographies of all the presidents of the United States, and governors of the state; Biographical Pub. Co., Chicago, IL; 1890; page 402-403; Transcribed by Margaret Rose Whitehurst
Sarah Mitchell. This fine old English lady resides upon a pleasant farm in Orion Township, the possession of which is largely due to her own industry. She still pursues an active career, the more arduous labors of earlier life being replaced by useful and kindly deeds, and leisure from the harassing cares of life being but a synonym for larger opportunities.
Mrs. Mitchell was born in Norfolkshire, England, February 14, 1829. Her first husband, Jarvis Nightengale, died in England, where she in 1865 became the wife of Joseph Emory. In 1872 she and her second husband crossed the Atlantic, landing at Portland, Me., whence they came West, arriving at Canton, Ill., April 20. Here Mr. Emory found employment in the factory of Messrs. Parlin and Orendorff, while his wife labored in the Orendorff family. The combined efforts and economy of the worthy couple secured to them the first $1,000 they ever had and with it they purchased eighty acres of land. Upon it they made their home, developing its resources, and surrounding themselves with more and more of the comforts of life. There Mr. Emory breathed his last, January 6, 1881.
Subsequently the widow married William Mitchell, who with her is now occupying the homestead. Mrs. Mitchell is identified with the Church of England. Her estimable character and useful life secure to her the respect of her acquaintances and the deeper regard of those who know her best.