Henry County, Illinois Biographies
Henry County, Illinois Biographies
Many thanks to Denise McLoughlin for her transcriptions of these biographies.
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Alex W. ALBRO, residing at Galva, was born Nov. 22, 1824, in Warren Co., N. Y., and is a son of Samuel and Polly (GREEN) ALBRO, natives of Rhode Island and New York respectively. They were married in the latter State, where he followed the occupation of a farmer. He was also a soldier in the War of 1812. They came to Medina Co., Ohio, about 1833, and remained there until November, 1835, when they removed to Fort Clark, now Peoria, of this State, where they remained a short time. The next spring they came to near where Wyoming, in Stark Co., this State, is located. They erected a dwelling that fall, and in the autumn of 1836 moved to Lynn Township, Knox County, where he entered 160 acres of land with a soldier's warrant. The land was located on Walnut Creek, and comprised both timber and prairie. They located on the land mentioned, and engaged actively and energetically in its cultivation, and continued to reside there until their deaths. Their family comprised eight children, namely: James, Phebe, Stephen G., Benjamin, John, Alex. W., subject of this notice, Deborah and Eliza. Of these children, John, Mrs. Eliza Rounds and our subject are the only survivors.
Alex. W. ALBRO, on account of the newness of the country at the time in which his parents settled in it, and the necessity which compelled him to assist in the labors of the farm and the maintenance of the family, only received three months' schooling, which was in Knox County. He was reared on the farm, and at the date of his father's death, being 17 years of age, was apprenticed to learn the wagon-maker's trade, at which he worked for about ten years. He then again engaged in farming, and followed that occupation five years. In June, 1855, about the time the town started, he came to Galva to live, having previous to this time worked on the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad, grading track. He was then in the mercantile business, from 1855 until 1862, and was also engaged in buying grain during the same period.
In August, 1862, Mr. ALBRO enlisted in the 112th Ill. Vol. Inf., Co. G., as private, and was afterward elected Captain. He served his country until April, 1863. He was stationed part of the time at Lexington, Ky., on provost duty. After returning from the war he again went to Galva, where he engaged in the hotel and livery business, owning what is known as the "Baker House: for many years, and which he conducted for four years. he then leased it for five years, but at the expiration of two years sold it to Brewer & Baker. While the Rock Island & Peoria Railroad was being built, Mr. ALBRO took a contract for the building of ten miles of its track northwest of Galva, which contract he successfully completed. Having traded his Galva property for Nebraska lands, he has spent the last years of his life principally in attending to his western property.
Mr. ALBRO has been married twice . His first wife was Miss Esther WILCOX, who died in Knox County, and he was again married to Emily SPALDING, a daughter of Dr. SPALDING, deceased, and a well know pioneer and surgeon of the noted 112th Ill. Vol. Inf., and also a gentleman high in the Masonic Order. Mrs. ALBRO was born in 1827, in New York city, and has borne her husband six children. Of these, Mrs. Esther BABBITT and Hattie H. are yet living; the four others, Charles O., Florence J., Ella D. and infant daughter, are deceased. Mr. ALBRO has been a very active worker in the ranks of the Republican party, and filled numerous minor offices in the gift of the people of the county, having been Deputy Sheriff on two separate occasions, and having held other minor offices. He was one of the incorporators of the First National Bank at Galva, and was a director of the same. From 1868 to 1872, he was Deputy United States Revenue Assessor for Henry County, serving in that capacity for more than four years. [Source: Page 461, Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, Illinois, Originally published 1885, Biographical Pub. Co., Chicago, IL. Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin]
Dr. Wilson W. ADAMS, a rising practitioner of Henry County, resident at Atkinson, commenced his business career in the place where he is now operating in 1883. He is a native of the Dominion of Canada, and was born near the city of Kingston, Nov. 19, 1853. His parents, George C. and Harriet R. (JOHNSON) ADAMS came, when he was an infant of two years, to the States. His father was born in the state of New York, Jan. 31, 1826, and went to Cabada when but a child. He was there engaged in the business of farming, and was married in 1848. The lady who became his wife was also a native of the Empire State. They had three children: Maria E. was born in 1850; the subject of this sketch is the second child in order of birth; George P. was born in August, 1860.
The family came to Henry County in 1855, and Dr. Adams commenced the acquisition of his elementary education in the common schools of the place where his parents settled. He passed the intervals of school in farm labor. In 1873, he was sent to the college located in the town of Abingdon, Ill. He began teaching in 1872, and taught only winters during the period of eight years, meanwhile obtaining a slight knowledge of the principles of his profession by desultory reading. About 1880 he entered Rush Medical College at Chicago, where he passed three years in study. On the completion of his course he settled at Atkinson, and began the practice of the business for which he had fitted himself. He is the owner of an excellent library and has a good office. He is an adherent of the school of allopathy, and is sure to obtain prominence as a physician. He is a republican in his political sentiments.
The marriage of Dr. ADAMS to Jennie M. HOLLIDAY occurred Dec. 26, 1877. They were married in Mercer Co., Ill. Mrs. ADAMS is a native of Illinois. They are still childless. [Source: Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, Illinois, Originally published 1885, Biographical Pub. Co., Chicago, IL. Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin]
Andrew E. Aldeen, of the firm of Engdahl & Aldeen, at Geneseo, was born in Sweden, April 10, 1845. He was instructed in the practical knowledge of the details of his business in his native country, whence he came in 1868. On his arrival in the United States he came immediately to Henry County. He came to the city in which he is now in business in 1872, and obtained a situation to work at his trade. The years inclusive from 1875 to 1878 he passed at Ottawa. At the expiration of of that time he returned to Geneseo and formed the partnership in which he has since been interested.
His marriage to Anna ANDERSON took place at Geneseo in 1871. The young wife died 15 months after she was married. In 1879, Mr. ALDEEN was again married, to Carrie OLSON. They have two children: Stella L., was born Aug. 7, 1880; Della was born Oct. 5, 1883.The parents are members of the Swedish Lutheran Church. In political connection and action Mr. ALDEEN is a Republican. [Source: Page 307, Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, Illinois, Originally published 1885, Biographical Pub. Co., Chicago, IL. Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin]
James M. ALLAN. The personal records of this gentleman are inseparable from the collated annals of Henry County, as he was one of those who were a part of the days of first things, and has borne a similar relation to every step in the development of the resources of the section of Illinois where he has been a continuous resident from the time when he came hither to seek a suitable location for a home to the date of this narration. Mr. ALLAN is a citizen of Loraine Township, and is the proprietor of a large tract of land located on section 29.
He was still in his minority when, like Captain UNDERHILL riding to Hilton Head on the same errand, he came to Illinois on Horseback. The doughty Captain had shaken from his feet the dust of Massachusetts Bay to seek freedom from the strictures placed on the followers of Annie HUTCHINSON, and Colonel ALLAN sought the privileges of that portion of his native land that was free from the curse of slavery. He had grown up under its evils, and possessed a temperament that led him to an intuitive comprehension of all that is embodied in the principles of liberty, and he had a vague notion that the North afforded opportunities for the exercise of his inherent views. He was born in Sumner Co., Tenn., Nov. 23, 1814. His father, John ALLAN, was native Englishman by birth, and was of mixed Scotch and English extraction. He came to the United States about 1800. The mother of Mr. ALLAN, Nancy (HODGE) ALLAN, came of a family of traditionally Irish origin in its earlier history, and recorded at a later date as English. John ALLAN removed his family to Huntsville, Ala., and there the son grew to approximate manhood; and, as has been stated, just previous to reaching his majority, he left the South to escape the evils of a State government that sustained slavery. He came to Illinois in the fall of 1835. He passed the first winter in Carrollton, Green County, and in April, 1836, made his first entry into Henry County. He made his first headquarters at the point now called Dayton, and entered a considerable quantity of land. The opportunity was fairly open, and he availed himself of it. His abilities were recognized as valuable to the interests of the county that was entering upon its period of development, and he was appointed County Clerk. He was also made Circuit Clerk, and was the first incumbent of those positions in the county. In that year he went on horseback to Vandalia, then the capital of Illinois, and by his exertions the separation of Henry from Knox County was effected. Mr. ALLAN was appointed County Clerk by the first Commissioners' Court for Henry County on the 27th of June, and on the 7th of August of the same year he was elected Circuit Clerk. Five days later the election for choice of an officer to command the battalion of the county was held, and Mr. ALLAN was elected Major, and duly commissioned by Governor Duncan. He had established the county seat in the first summer after his arrival, and he did it on this wise; With a sense of the eternal fitness of things, he recognized that the seat of government should have a location as near as possible to the geographical center of the county, and, by a process of his own, he fixed on a point which he considered to be the practical center of which he was in pursuit, bought the quarter section and staked out a town, which he named Richmond, and took the proper steps to secure its claims to the distinction of county seat. He was successful in his maneuvers, and Richmond became the government center of the new county. Mr. Allan established his headquarters there and held the fort until the few buildings that he been erected were destroyed by fire, in less than two years after. The court-house was a temporary structure, 16x24 feet in extent, and one and a half stories in height. The entire town burned, only a stable and a hay-stack being left to mark the site of the metropolis of Richmond. Mr. ALLAN saved the county records and papers and conveyed them to Geneseo.
He owned large tracts of land in the neighborhood of that place, and it was afterwards his home for nearly 50 years. He erected a handsome and expensive residence, which is now the building occupied by the Normal School. In 183_ Mr. ALLAN was elected County Judge. He has served three years as a member of the Board of Supervisors, and has had other offices of less importance. In the course of the civil War he took an active part in attention to the interests of the county in raising men and money, and was appointed Provost Marshal, in which capacity he served two years. He was sent to the Legislature in 1851 to exert his influence to secure the charter for the Chicago, Rock Island, & Pacific Railroad, and he succeeded in effecting the purpose. The opposition to the project in the counties lying north and east of Henry County was determined, as there was an apprehension that such a road would shut out others; but it was overruled. The interest of Mr. ALLAN in the road was unmistakable, as he had been its untiring advocate for six years, and had kept up an unceasing series of efforts in its behalf. He first communicated with John THOMPSON, of New York, in relation to running a line of railroad through Henry County, and made the proper representations concerning the advantages of the location; but his overtures were met with disapproval, on account of the credit of the State being in a low condition. But continued agitation of the subject and unremitting effort finally accomplished the desired end. From 1847 to 1850 Mr. ALLAN was interested in a mercantile enterprise at Geneseo. In 1837 he bought 80 acres of land situated about half way between Geneseo and Cambridge, for which he paid $10. He was its owner until 1845, when he traded it to Royal M. WILCOX for a one-horse wagon, valued at $30.
The marriage of Mr. ALLAN to Susannah D. STEWART occurred in 1839. She was born in Geneseo, N. Y., and is the daughter of Roderick D. STEWART, one of the Commissioners of the Geneseo Colon who came here in 1836. Theirs was the first marriage in the place, and Mrs. ALLAN was the teacher of the first school in the county. Four children came to the ALLAN household, one of whom died in infancy. Sarah A. is the superintendent of the Kindergarten School at Fort Collins, Col. Mary Amelia is the wife of George WEST, of Geneseo. Frances married William Pearsall, of the same place. Louise A. L. is the wife of Frank WILLIAMS, of the township of Loraine.
Mrs. ALLAN is connected with the Congregational Church by membership. In early life Mr. ALLAN was a Whig. At a later period he became a Republican and he has since preserved a uniform and unwavering consistency with the principles of the party and has supported its issues. [Source: Page 284, Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, Illinois, Originally published 1885, Biographical Pub. Co., Chicago, IL. Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin]
Rev. William T. ALLAN, deceased, came to Geneseo in 1844. He was born in Tennessee Feb. 7, 1810. He was brought up in his native State and there educated and fitted for the ministry. He was born in a slave State and reared in constant proximity to the "institution." He became impressed at an early age with the great evils resulting from the labor system of the South, and connected himself with that body of agitators of the slavery question among whom were William Lloyd GARRISON, Gerrit SMITH, Wendell PHILLIPS and others. He was, of course, a marked individual and suffered ostracism at the hands of his friends and neighbors. He was threatened with violence, and as he was fearless in the advocacy of his views and opinions he encountered the abuse that was the sure portion of such as endorsed the principles of Abolitionism. He came North and entered with all his might into the controversy that in its ultimatum shook to its foundation the structure of the Republic. He became a lecturer on the great political issue in national politics, and won distinction as a fervent and earnest champion of the principles of human liberty. After his removal to Geneseo he officiated sometimes as a clergyman of the Congregational Church, but he never had a settled charge.
He was married in Geneseo, to Mrs. Caroline CHAPIN, the widow of Rev. Jason CHAPIN, and the daughter of Eli and Alice (ALDEN) SNOW. (see sketch of Rev. Jason CHAPIN) Mr. and Mrs. ALLAN had one child, now the wife of Robert Townshend, of Indianapolis, Ind. He was married in early life to Miss Iren BALL, who died childless.
Mr. ALLAN was an earnest believer in the principles of temperance, and lectured on that and on other subjects. He lived to see the triumph of the principles of which he was for so many and so fruitless years the champion, and breathed the atmosphere of a country in which there was not a soul held in legal bondage. When the issues of the Republican party assumed tangible shape, he became its adherent; and he continued his connect therewith until a few years before his death, when he became dissatisfied with the party policy and ever after voted with the opposition. He was elected and served several years as Justice of the Peace, and he also held the position of Postmaster at Geneseo four years. He died June 5, 1882. [Source: Page 326, Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, Illinois, Originally published 1885, Biographical Pub. Co., Chicago, IL. Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin]
John H. ALLEN, druggist at Cambridge, was born Feb. 9,1843, in Shelbyville, Ind. In ancestral descent he is of Scotch-Irish origin, his earliest progenitor having been of that race. His grandfather, Isaac ALLEN, came from Scotland to Virginia, and settled there and raised a family. One of them, John ALLEN, born in 1805, removed thence to Shelby County, Ind., where he was married to Martha HIGBEE. She was a native of the State of Kentucky, and was of German descent. Six of their nine children are now living. In the spring of 1850, John ALLEN removed his family to Mason Co, Ill., settling in Havana, where the lives of his parents terminated.
Mr. ALLEN, of this sketch, was educated in Havana, and at the opening of the Rebellion enlisted in the 11th Ill. Cav., and served four years in the army. Since that time he has been engaged in different mercantile pursuits. for the last eight years of which he has been engaged in the drug business, having been engaged in that business six years in Ipava, this State, and two years in Cambridge.
The marriage of Mr. ALLEN to Lovina MARTY took place at Havana, Ill., and their children are named Emma A., Mattie E., Hattie F., Clara M. and Eugene W. Mr. ALLEN is a Republican in political views and actions and member of the A. O. U. W. and Masonic Order. [Source: Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, Illinois, Originally published 1885, Biographical Pub. Co., Chicago, IL. Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin]
Robert D. BOICE, a citizen of prominence in business, social and religious relations at Geneseo, has been a dealer in hardware at that place since 1858, He was born Aug. 14, 1830, in the city of Pittsburg, Pa. His parents, Eben and Nancy (De FRANCE) BOICE, were natives of Penn Manor, Franklin Co., Pa. The father was a descendant from a family of Scotch-Irish extraction, and the ancestry of the mother was of French origin.
Mr. BOICE was approaching manhood when, in 1848, his father made a transfer of his family and business relations to Ashland, in the county of the same name in Ohio. He there was first engaged in the hardware trade, and there acquired a familiarity with its details, and prosecuted his interests until, in 1858, he removed to Henry County, where he arrived Jan. 25, of the year named.
The issues which resulted in the formation of the Republican party were being agitated at the time Mr. BOICE arrived at the dignities of citizenship, and he cast his first Presidential vote for John C. FREMONT. Since that time he has been an adherent of the "grand old party" without shadow of change in principle or acts. He has discharged the duties of several minor official positions at Geneseo. He is engaged in the prosecution of extensive farming interests in Gage Co., Neb., and is in connection with a banking enterprise at Costland, in the same county.
He formed a matrimonial alliance with Lydia E. SMITH, at Geneseo, Jan. 29, 1854, and they have one child - Ollie S. Mrs. BIOCE is the daughter of John and Rachel SMITH and is a native of Ashland, Ohio. With her husband, she is a member of the Congregational Church. [Source: Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, Illinois, Originally published 1885, Biographical Pub. Co., Chicago, IL. Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin]
Eric WESTERLUND, a farmer, residing on section 28, Osco Township, is a native of Sweden, having been born in that country June 18, 1836. Mr. WESTERLUND continued to reside in his native country until the fall of 1850, when, at the age of 14 years, he accompanied his parents across the black deep and landed in America. His mother died on the voyage, and her grave was the black deep of the ocean. Mr. WESTERLUND continued to reside with his father, who had located in Andover Township, this county, until he had obtained his majority. On becoming his own man he went forth to fight the battles of life single-handed and alone, and his first work in which he realized a remuneration from others was than to farming. He continued to "work out" for a time, and then purchased 80 acres located on section 28, Osco Township, upon which he settled, and at once entered vigorously and actively upon the task of improvement and cultivation, and where he is at present residing. He has fine improvements upon his farm; has erected a nice residence and barn, and by economy and energetic labor has increased his landed interests until at present heis the proprietor of 290 acres of good farm land, the larger portion of which is under an advanced state of cultivation. Mr. WESTERLUND keeps on his farm about 40 head of cattle, 12 head of horses and colts, and fattens from 60 to 100 head of hogs annually, and is meeting with financial success in the vocation which he has followed all his life, that of agriculture.
Mr. WESTERLUND was united in marriage at Moline, Ill., Feb. 7, 1857, to Christine ANDERSON, who was born in Sweden, Jan. 30, 1843, and of their union six children have been born, namely: Sarah E., Emma C. Sophia J., John O., Annie and Julius O. The father and mother are members of the Swedish Lutheran Church. In politics Mr. WESTERLUND affiliates with the Republican party. [Source: Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, Illinois, Originally published 1885, Biographical Pub. Co., Chicago, IL. Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin]
Peter WESTERLUND. Among the many Swedes residing in Henry County, the subject of this sketch is prominent. He is an extensive farmer and stock-raiser, living on the north half of sectin 25, Western Township. He was born in the parish of Hasela, in Gafleburgs Lan, Aug. 10, 1839. His father, Erick, was a native of the same State, and by occupation a farmer. He was married to Miss Elizabeth JOHNSON, daughter of a Swedish farmer, and to them were born nine children, Peter being the youngest. Four of the number are still living. Andrew H., a resident of Sweden, is a brother. He was formerly a custom-house officer, but is now on he retired list, and is pensioned by the Swedish Government. Jonas is a successful farmer of Lynn Township, this county; Mrs. Margaret STOLT is a sister and resides in Crawford Co., Iowa; Erick resides in Osco Township.
Peter WESTERLUND was educated in America, being only 11 years of age when his parents came to our shores. While they were on their voyage across the Atlantic, the mother and youngest daughter died, and theri bodies were consigned to the deep. The father and the five remaining children came to Andover, this county, arriving here in November, 1850, experiencing many hardships onthe route. After their arrival here, Peter's father hired him out ot a farmer near Gales burg, for four years, but at the end of two years, he left his place and returned home. On the 17th of February, 1863, in Andover Township, he was married to Miss Elnora C. S. HULTMAN, who was born in Sweden, and came to America alone, then snineteen years of age. The five children born to them are named in the following record: Oscar William is the cashier in the bank of Orion; John A., Melinda, Luther R., and Peter E. resided at home.
In 1865, Mr. W. purchased his first 80 acres of land, on section 36, being a part of his present farm; since then he has increased its borders, until it now includes an entire half section, which is all admirably improved. He is not only one of the successful farmers of the township, but ranks among the lading agriculturists of the county. The land, when he first began to work upon it, was in its native wildness, but by hard labor and a watchful care and shrewd management, he has developed it to a high state. The family are members of the Lutheran Evangelical Church, of which Mr. W. is Trustee; and he has held all the other offices of the society. He has also held some of the township offices. [Source: Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, Illinois, Originally published 1885, Biographical Pub. Co., Chicago, IL. Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin]
Jonas WESTERLUND, engaged as a general farmer and stock-grower, on section 3, Lynn Township, where is also his residence, was born in Gefleborg Lan, Sweden, March 31, 1830. His father was Eric A. WESTERLUND. (Seesketch of Peter WESTERLUND)
Jonas, whose name heads this notice, was the eldest but two of a family of nine children. He lived at home and had but very little time to acquire an education, assisting in the maintenance of the family. At the age of 21 years, he came with his parents to the United States, and locted at Andover. Here our subject at once endeavored to care his own livelihood, by which he secured a position to work in saw mills up im the State of Minnesota, after having remained for about eight or nine months in Henry County. For about seven years he was engaged in thelumber business and mills in the regions of Minnesota.
He was married Aug. 29, 1856, in Taylor Falls, Minn., to Miss Ellen NELSON, daughter of Nelson OLESON and Mary (MANGASSON), both natives of Sweden. Mrs. WESTERLUND was born in Sweden, Dec. 23, 1835, and came with her brother when 18 years of age to America. Theylocated at Stillwater, Minn., and after a short period she began to earn her own livelihood. She lost her parents in the old country, their deaths occurring there some time ago. Mr. and Mrs. WESTERLUND have become the parents of nine children, two having died in infancy. Lizzie married J. W. ANDERSON, and resides in Osco Township; N. Henning, John E., Charlie E., Jonas N., Joseph E. and Gilbert L. reside at home.
In the fall of 1856, Mr. W. came to Illinois, locating on an 80-acre farm in Lynn township, on section 2, which was his first purchase. By subsequent purchases he is now th owner and proprietor of 382 acres of well improved lands, all in one large farm. Mr. WESTERLUND is one of the heaviest stock-breeders in his township, besides being a progressive and resepcted farmer. Religious.y, the family are connected with the Swedish Lutheran Church, of which Mr. W. has been both Trustee and Deacon. Of his township he has held the position of Road Commisioner. Politically, he affiliates with the Republican party. [Source: Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, Illinois, Originally published 1885, Biographical Pub. Co., Chicago, IL. Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin]
Geo. S. EMMERT is a native of Germany, where he was born in 1839. He came to Henry County in 1851. [Source: Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, Illinois, Originally published 1885, Biographical Pub. Co., Chicago, IL. Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin]
Harriet K. ADAMS, wife of Geo. Adams, was born in Jefferson Co., N. Y., Dec. 27, 1825; came to the county in 1855. [Source: Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, Illinois, Originally published 1885, Biographical Pub. Co., Chicago, IL. Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin]
Henry S. ALDRICH, the county's first "Baby Mine," was born in Phenix Township in December, 1835. See biography of Earl P. ALDRICH, page 305. [Source: Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, Illinois, Originally published 1885, Biographical Pub. Co., Chicago, IL. Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin]
Thomas FITCH came to Henry County in June, 1837 [Source: Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, Illinois, Originally published 1885, Biographical Pub. Co., Chicago, IL. Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin]
Dr. William Henry Cole, the dean of the medical profession in Kewanee, who for thirty-six years has been engaged in practice in this city, was born in Tioga, Owego county, New York, October 19, 1836, a son of Cornelius Debois Hasbrouk and Sylvia (Walker) Cole. The father of Dr. Cole was a teacher for some years before taking up the study of medicine, obtaining his professional degree in Geneva, New York, after which he located for practice in Bradford county, Pennsylvania, where he spent his remaining years. During the war he was surgeon of the 172nd Pennsylvania Infantry and at the close of the service the regiment presented him with a watch and chain in token of the high esteem in which they held him and of their appreciation of the excellent professional service which he rendered.
Dr. William Henry Cole, reared in an atmosphere of intelligence and culture, was provided with good educational privileges, pursuing his studies in the Owego Academy and in the Ovid Collegiate Institute. He began teaching in the country schools when seventeen years of age and when a young man of twenty-four years was chosen principal of the public schools of Owego, New York, and remained at their head for nine years, his labors being a potent force for the improvement of educational advantages there. He also filled the position of county superintendent of schools of Tioga county, New York, for three years and at the end of his term of office was presented with a full set of silver. At length determining to make the practice of medicine his life work, he entered the Buffalo Medical College, and subsequently continued his studies in the Long Island College, at Brooklyn, New York. He was graduated from the latter institution in June, 1873, and came to Kewanee the same year. Here he has continued in practice to the present time, covering a period of thirty-six years, and is still an active and valued representative of the profession. He is certainly the dean of the medical fraternity in Kewanee, and probably of the county. The great majority of men who have passed the Psalmist's allotted span of three score years and ten put aside the active duties and cares of life, but not so with Dr. Cole for he continues a helpful factor in the world's work through his professional service Since engaging in active practice he has always read broadly along the line of his professional duties and his investigations and research have kept him in touch with the most advanced thought in the profession.
On coming to Kewanee, Dr. Cole joined the Galva District Medical Association, with which he has since been affiliated and has served as president of the society. He also belongs to the Henry County Medical Society and upon the organization of the medical staff of St. Francis Hospital he was made its president. He is likewise one of the organizers of the Kewanee National Bank and from its intention has been one of its directors. Not to know Dr. Cole in Kewanee and this part of the state is to argue one's self unknown. His professional service has brought him a wide acquaintance and the worth of his labors has gained him the confidence and good will of all, while his close conformity to a high standard of professional ethics has gained him the unqualified respect of his brethren of the medical fraternity. [Source: Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, Illinois, Originally published 1885, Biographical Pub. Co., Chicago, IL. Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin]
Henry PRITCHARD, a farmer on section 19, Alba Township, was born in the County Cown, Ireland, March 21, 1843. He is the son of Henry and Mary (WARNOCK) PRITCHARD, who removed with their family to the United States in 1865. He passed the period of his minority in the manner common to the sons of farmers and obtaied a fair educatin and a full and comprehensive knowledge of the arts of farming. He was married to Eliza Irvin, Dec. 25, 1868, and they had five children - Sarah, Henry, John, Mary and Willliam. The mother died in February, 1878. Mr. PRITCHARD was again married, Nov. 23, 1880, to Catherine MOORE. Their children are as follows: Hugh, Samuel and Walter. Mr. PRITCHARD is a successful farmer and is the owner of a fine estate, including 520 acres of well cultivated land. He is giving much attention to the improvement of his stock, and owns a fine herd of valuable grades, of which he is raising the standard every year. He owns one thoroughbred Hereford, and a full-blooded English Draft horse, for which he paid $2,000. In his political preference he is a Republican and has filled the several school offices of his district [Source: Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, Illinois, Originally published 1885, Biographical Pub. Co., Chicago, IL. Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin]
James GREENLEE, deceased, was a pioneer of Henry County, in 1856. He was born in Rockbridge Co., Va., April 14, 1813. His parents were members of the agricultural class, and he was reared on the farm of his father threre and in Ohio, whither the family removed while he was still in early youth. He was a resident of the Buckeye State until the year named as that in which he came to Illinois, and which was that in which he located in Henry County. He settled in the township of Munson, where he became the owner of an entire section of land, and which is still included in his undivided estate, with the exception of one "40." He was married Aug. 22, 1867, in Munson Township, to Gustafva L., daughter of Swan WALIN. She was born in Sweden, and came to the Untied States in 1866. Mr. GREENLEE died March 29, 1884. He was a Republican in political sentiment, and was a member of the Presbyterian Church. He was a prominent citizen as an agriculturist, and so ordered his life that he was the recipient of the esteem and respect of his fellow-men. [Source: Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, Illinois, Originally published 1885, Biographical Pub. Co., Chicago, IL. Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin]
Lewis SHEARER
One of the well known and prominent men of the county, as well as one of the large land owners is Mr. Lewis SHEARER, of Cornwall Township, whose portrait is given upon the opposte page. He is a son of James SHEARER, a native of Saratoga County, N. Y., where Lewis was born, Oct. 16, 1817. He continued to reside with his parents, attending school and working on the farm, until he reached his majority. When he was 17 years of age the family moved from Eastern New York and located in Livingston County, same state, where Lewis remained until he was about 22 years of age. He then concluded to move still further West, and came to Tippecanoe County, Ind., and settled near the famous battle-ground where General HARRISON routed Tecumseh. While living here he married Miss Permelia BURGET, March 14. 1843. He remained in Indiana until Nov. 22, 1850, when he came to Henry County. During the following March he bought 320 acres of land where he now resides, on section 18, Cornwall Township, and on the 22d day of that month moved upon the farm. Though no favorable circumstances surrounded him at the beginning of his business career, he has so managed that today he is the owner of 694 acres of good farming land, and is one of the most influential and highly respected citizens of this part of the county. His land is beautifully located and is watered by spring creeks which run almost through the center of his farm north and south. Upon his home farm he was erected a speldned two-story brick dwelling and has good equipments for carrying on mixed farming.
Mr. SHEARER has taken more than ordinary prominence in the lcoal affairs of his township, and has been brought into considerable notice as a public-spirited ciitzen and one of safe and sound judgment in the general affairs of the county. He was the first Superisor elected from Cornwall, and for 18 years since, has represented that district in the Board of Supervisors. He has also served as Town Treasurer for nine years. In his political affiliations he is connected with the Republican party. Both he and his wife are members of the Christian Chruch. They are the parents of six children, as follows: Sarah, Mary Ann, Norman and Lewis R., are living. Bruce, who was killed by the fall of a horse in July. 1867, and Albert J., who died in 1872. [Source: Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, Illinois, Originally published 1885, Biographical Pub. Co., Chicago, IL. Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin]
Asel H. TALCOTT, deceased, was an early settler in Henry County and pioneer of the state of Illinois. He was anative of the State of New York, and was 35 years of age when he came, in 1839, to Rock Island County, from northern Ohio, whitehr he had removed in 1828. In 1844, he removed to Rock River, and four years later he established "Talcott's Ferry," in the township of Zuma, which he conducted from that side of the river until 1857, when he crossed the river into Hanna Township. He was a resident there about 20 years, his death occurring Feb. 9, 1876.
He was born in Fairfield, Herkimer Co., N. Y., March 15, 1804. The family of which he was a descendant was prominent in New England, where his immediate ancestors originated and whence his father removed to the Empire State. Mr. TALCOTT was married to Jane M. THAYER, at Rome, in Herkimer County, Aug. 15, 1823. They went to the State of Ohio to seek wider priveleges in a new region, and in May. 1839, located, as has been stated, in the township of Hampton, in Rock Island County. In 1844 he bought a farm in Zuma Township and became prominent inhis relations to the community of the county through the interest he took in the development and progress of the affairs of Western Illinois. He was given to experiments in agriculture, and his fruit orchard was amodel in vairety and was aproof of the possibilites in that line on the course of the river. After his removal to Henry County he was the same in his interest in the general welfare. He served as Justtice of the Peace a number of years. Up to the time of his death his habits were those of an industrious and useful citizen. He was a man of most correct morals and was never addicted to the use of intoxicants or of tobacco.
His first wife, to whom he was marriedd in the State of New York, bore him five children. Dr. Edwin TALCOTT, a practicing physician of Spring Hill, Whiteside County, is the oldest; Electa is deceased; Dexter is a resident of Sharon, Ill.; Catherine is the widow of M. A. STICKNEY and lives at Greenfield, Iowa. Mrs. Jane M. TALCOTT died in Hampton, in April, 1841. Mr. TALCOTT was married, at Rock Island, Dec. 3, 1841, to Mrs. Minerva NEWTON. She was the widow of William NEWTON and was in maiden life Miss SHAW. She was born in the vicinity of Stockholm, St. Lawrence Co., N. Y. By her first marriage she was the mother of a son, - Horation, who died when eight years old. To Mr. TALCOTT she bore three children; Willliam H. married Martha EDWARDS and is a resident of the State of Nebraska; Lucy is the wife of Henry L. ANGELL, of Geneseo, who is represented i this work; Mary M. is the wife of F. R. TIMMERMAN, of Spring Hill, Whiteside Co., Ill. [Source: Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, Illinois, Originally published 1885, Biographical Pub. Co., Chicago, IL. Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin]
ROYAL G. CROUCH came to the township of Atkinson, where he is an agriculturiest, in 1878. He has a farm of 160 acres on section 16, where he is pursuing his plans with the success his industry and good management deserve. He has born March 2, 1831, in the State of Vermont, and his property gives evidence that he has inherited the practical judgement and thrifty habits which characterize the stock iin which he had his origin. When he reached the age of 20 he learned the trade of a brick and plaster mason. He served his apprenticeship in Rutland, Vt., and after passing three years in that place he went to Troy, N. Y., and was occupied there one year in the same vocation. He came thence to Henry County and worked at the same business in Geneseo, where he operateed at a contractor and took jobs. In the year 1878 he bought a farm of 160 acres in Atkinson Township and has been a resident there since. He is a Repbulican in his political view.
The marriage of Mr. CROUCH and Mary E. HUNT was celebrated Jan. 1, 1855. They have had five children. Mary Edna was born June 1, 1856; George H., Sept. 10, 1857; Herert R., July 25, 1862; David W., April 9, 1859; Merritt G., Nov. 17, 1874. Mrs. CROUCH was born in Vermont Oct 15, 1835. She is a Congregationlist in religious views. [Source: Page 532, Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, Illinois, Originally published 1885, Biographical Pub. Co., Chicago, IL. Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin]
SILAS CROUCH, one of the properous and energetic farmers of Henry County, residing on sections 16, Osco Township, is a son of Jon and Margaret (DALY) CROUCH, natives of New York and Pennsylvania respectively. Their family consisted of eight children – Nancy A., Lovilla, Maria, Amanda, Silas, John, Fred and Aaron.
Silas, our subject, was born in Crawford Co., Pa., Aug. 7, 1834, and continued to remain in the State of his nativity until the year 1860, when he learned the cooper’s trade and came to Henry County, and for one year lived in Cambridge, engaged in carpentering. He then worked a farm on shares for his uncle about a year, and contnued too rent land until 1867, when he purchased 80 acres on section 24. He has since increased his landed interests until he has now in his possession 420 acres of good farmiing land, all tillable. When he came to Henry County, Mr. CROUCH had nothing but his own resources to depend upon, and he is, at the present writng, one of the most successful farmers of Henry County.
Mr. CROUCH was united in marriage in Cambridge, Aug. 10, 1861, the lady being Mary CAROTHERS, daughter of James and Rchel (SKYHONK) CAROTHERS, who are both natives of Ohio. She was their only child, born in Scott Co., Ohio, Feb. 26, 1841. Mr. and Mrs. CROUCH were th parents of 11 children, nine of whom are living as follows: Lovilla J., Frank, John, James, Benjamin, Lester, Frederick, George and Ella. Two died in infancy. Mr. CROUCH has been honored by the position of School Director in his township, and in politics he is identified with the Republican. [Source: Page 397, Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, Illinois, Originally published 1885, Biographical Pub. Co., Chicago, IL. Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin]
WESLEY HOPPOCK, one of the early settlers of Wethersfield Township, came here with his parents in 1850, and is a resident on section 25, where he is engaged extensive in agricultural pursuits. He was born Aug. 9, 1840, in New Jersey, and is a son of John and Margaret (HACKETT) HOPPOCK, who died in Henry County, this township, the father Aug. 16, 1868, the mother July 1, 1884.
Wesley HOPPOCK, of this sketch, was the 10th in order of birth of a family of 13 children, and his education was received principally in the district schools of Henry County. Remaining at home with his parents until he was 21 years of age, he assisted considerably on the farm and in the maintenance of the family, and at the age mentioned above he began farming for himself in Wethersfield Township, and has to today a fine farm of 210 acres, all of which is under the finest improvements and cultivation, which is attributable to his steady and hard labor. Upon his farm he has erected a fine residence, which is heated throughout with steam, and also has all necessary out-buildings, besides having all the land fenced mostly with hedge.
Mr. HOPPOCK , on the 24th day of March, 1873, was married, in the city of Kewanee, to Miss Eliza, daughter of Moses and Catherine (TAYLOR) JONES, both natives of England, who came to Henry County in 1863. Mrs. JONES died in January, 1869, but Mr. JONES still survives. Of a family of five children, Mrs. HOPPOCK was the eldest, and was born in Pennsylvania, Oct. 4, 1849; the names of the children of Mr. and Mrs. HOPPOCK are as follows: Alice M., born Jan. 26, 1874; Bertha E., Feb. 15, 1877; Lettie M. and Nellie M. (twins), Feb. 10. 1879' and Ernest E., Feb. 1, 1881, and was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Politically, Mr. H. is identified with the Republican party. [Source: Page 510, Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, Illinois, Originally published 1885, Biographical Pub. Co., Chicago, IL. Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin]
Lewis HOPPOCK. One of the prominent settlers who came into Henry County before the advent of railroad was Mr. John HOPPOCK. He came in 1851 and located in Wethersfield Township, where he reared a large and respected family, and was himself highly esteemed. His wife, who was Miss Margaret Hackett, was a native of New Jersey, and he was also born in the same State. Both died in this township. Father died Aug. 16, 1864; mother died July 1, 1884.
Lewis was the fifth in order of birth of a family of 13 children, and educationally enjoyed only such means as the common schools of an early day afforded. He continued to assist his father on the farm and labor in his behalf until 21 years of age. For eight years subsequently he rented a farm in Wethersfield and tried his hand in managing it for himself. In this enterprise he was reasonably successful, and at the need of this engagement he purchased 66 acres on section 15, of the same township. Here he settled and has since made h is home, with the exception of two years spent in Kewanee. He also passed about a year in Kansas and seven months in Dakota, seeking to improve his impaired health. He has erected a fine residence, which is heated throughout with steam, and is one of the model dwellings of the county. His outbuildings and farm equipments are of superior quality. He has succeeded so well that he now owns his home farm, comprising 306 acres of land, besides a small timber lot in Stark County. He is looked upon as one of the enterprising and progressive farmers of Henry County.
Mr. HOPPOCK was married at Kewanee, April 19, 1865, to Huldah R. Daughter of Israel and Sophia (PETICARD) CROSS. Her parents were among the very earliest settler of Henry County, coming from Washington Co., Ohio, in 1848, and locating in Wethersfield Township, where they became prominent and well-known pioneers. Mr. CROSS died November, 1855, and Mrs. CROSS died Oct. 20, 1878. Huldah R. was the youngest of the nine children born to them. Her birth-place is Washington Co., Ohio, and her birthday July 31, 1841. Her only child, Alfred G., resides at their home. Both she and her husband are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and in politcal sentiments Mr. H. is decidedly Republican. [Source: Page 510, Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, Illinois, Originally published 1885, Biographical Pub. Co., Chicago, IL. Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin]
Augustus E. ANDERSON.
Augustus E. ANDERSON.
There are in Henry County a large number of highly respected and at present well-to-do farmers who came from Sweden, and under the most adverse circumstances began to develop and improve many of the farms of the county. Prominent among these is Mr. Augustus E. ANDERSON, who resides on section I, Andover Township. He was born in Hille Parish, district of Gefleborgs Lan, Sweden, May 20, 1834. His father, Andrew, was a native of the same parish, and by occupation a farmer, and in his native place he married Anna JARNBERG, a native of the same place and a descendant of an old Swedish family. The parents of our subject brought their family to America in 1849. While passing through Chicago, on their way to Henry County, the father died, being taken with a disease similar to the cholera. The mother and wife, thus bereft of her husband and in a strange land, after many hardships made her way to Andover village. It was a terrible hardship to the family to be pioneers in a new country and in a foreign land without a husband or father, but a month after the death of the father the children were completely bereft of all natural watch-care and support by the death of their mother, which occurred in November, 1849, from typhoid fever, occasioned by her husband's decease. She had been the mother of six children, five of whom were with her on the journey to America, and of whom the following is a record: Mrs. Christina WARD, who died in Hutchinson, Kan., in December, 1880, leaving seven children; the second was Andrew, who married and resides at Viola, Mercer Co., Ill., and has retired from farm labors; the third is our subject; the next, Abraham, who married and resides at Galesburg; next, Mrs. Regina Woodward, who resides in Steward.
Our subject, after the death of his parents, lived with Mr. H. G. GRIFFIN, of Andover Township (see sketch), until the fall of 1855, when he began to farm on his own account. In 1856 he purchased 160 acres on section 27, of Cambridge Township, where he lived for one year. He then purchased a quarter of a section in Andover Township, and worked it from 1858 to 1867, when he came to his present home, consisting of 196 acres, all well improved and upon which he has a fine residence and splendid farm buildings. He makes a specialty of Short-horn cattle.
During these years of hard labor and accumulation, Mr. A. did not forget the need of his adopted country. During the time of her peril he enlisted in its defense. On Sept. 1, 1861, he joined Co. B, Capt. J.H. Humphrey, of the Ninth Ill. Vol. Cav. He participated in several battles, but only as a skirmisher. He was honorably discharged at Jefferson Barracks, Mo., Feb 27, 1863, on account of disability. After his return home, as soon as his recovery was accomplished, he again resumed work on his farm.
Mr. Anderson was married Feb. 16, 1865, at the residence of the bride's parents, Saybrook, Ashtabula Co., Ohio, to Miss Mary E. WRIGHT, daughter of Cyrus and Mary E. (SMITH) WRIGHT. The former was a native of Connecticut, and the latter of New York, and by occupation were farmers. Both came to Ohio when young, and were married in Ashtabula County, where Mr. Anderson of this notice was born, Dec. 11, 1842. She was the eldest but one of a family of four children, all of whom are living and married. Mrs. Gertrude ANDERSON resides at Viola, Mercer Co., Ill.; Cassius E. was married to Emma SHEPARD, and resides at Austin, Minn.; Arthur married Miss Agnes E. CLARK, and resides at the same place; the second member of the family was Mrs. ANDERSON. The family first came West in the spring of 1856, and located in Andover Township, and the parents now live in Cambridge. Mrs. ANDERSON was educated at the academy of Kingsville, Ohio, and taught school a short time previous to her marriage. Four of her five children are deceased. Grace M. was born Dec. 7, 1880; Ernest S., Carrie E., Herbert and an infant are deceased.
The family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which Mr. A. has been Trustee for 25 years. He has also served as Road Commissioner, and has been an earnest worker in his school district, and Clerk of the School Board for many years. He is a valuable worker in the interests of the Republican party of his township and county.
The public will doubtless be pleased to see a portrait of Mr. ANDERSON in this work. Accordingly, it is given, in proximity to the above sketch.
[Source: Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, Illinois, Originally published 1885, Biographical Pub. Co., Chicago, IL. Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin]
William Broadbent, one of the energetic and progressive farmers of Annawan Township, where he resides on section 34, is a son of James and Betty BROADBENT. He was born in Yorkshire, England, in 1822. His parents are both decreased, having died in England, which was their native country - the father May 27, 1871, aged 78 years, and the mother May 17, 1879, aged 81 years.
William came to America in 1849, on the 17th day of April, and may be called on of the pioneers of Henry County. He located in the Barren Grove, where he owns 320 acres of good land, 220 acres of which is under excellent cultivation, and finely equipped, and 100 acres of it is timber pasture. Upon this land he has erected a good substantial dwelling, 40x46 feet, being a two-story house. He has a herd of 90 head of Short-horn cattle of a good grade. His horses are of the English Draft breed, and he has an excellent flock of Cotswold sheep.
Before Mr. BROADBENT left England he was united in marriage with Rose Ann PRINCE, their wedding day being the 8th of May, 1844. She started with him across the Atlantic to the New World, and while in mid-ocean died, and was consigned to a watery grave. In 1851 Mr. BROADBENT and Mrs. Martha BOOTH were united in marriage. She was born in 1826, in England. The record of the children are as follows: By his first marriage the following children were born: Benjamin, July 1, 1844, and Wilson, July 2, 1846. By his second marriage the following were born: George H., May 11, 1853; Mary E., April 30, 1860; Thomas A., Sept. 29, 1862; Alice J., Sept. 27, 1866. Mrs. BROADBENT, by her former marriage to Mr. BOOTH, had the following children: Robert P., born March 7, 1846, and Eliza, May 22, 1848.
Mrs. BROADBENT'S father, George PRINCE, was also a native of England, and was born in 1782. He was married to Rebecca WILSON, who was born in June, 1796. They came to America, and located in the northern part of Illinois, where, on the 4th of May, 1862, in Bureau County, Mrs. PRINCE died. Mrs. PRINCE died in Henry County. They were the parents of the following ten children: Sarah, Robert, George, Rose Ann, Martha, Mary, Anna, Rebecca, Ruth and Emma.
Mr. BROADBENT is one of the prominent and well-to-do farmers of Henry County. He is a man highly esteemed for his many good qualities, and one of the old settlers of Henry County. Source: Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, Illinois, Published 1885, Biographical Pub Co., Chicago, IL; Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin,
Robert Broadbent, engaged in farming on section 24, Cornwall Township, is the owner of 400 acres of land, He was born Aug. 24, 1829, in Yorkshire, England. His father, James BROADBENT, was a native of England in which country he resided until his death in 1867; his wife followed him in 1881.
The gentleman whose name heads this article was married May 7, 1881, to Mrs. Jane (WINTER) GASP. She is also a native of England, having been born in Lincolnshire, that country, in 1843. She has been twice married. By Mr. MOD, her first husband, she had two children 0 George and Sarah Ann. By Mr. GASP, she has two children - Edward and James. She has borne her present husband two children, viz.: Hannah E. and Erwin.
Mr. BROADBENT is the owner of 80 acres of land on section 24, 80 acres on section 19, and 80 acres on section 18, Annawan Township; also 80 acres on section 13, and 80 acres on section 14, Cornwall Township, making his total landed interest in the county 400 acres. Mr. BROADBENT is a self-made man. He emigrated to the United Sates in 1855, from his native country, and came to Bureau Co., this State, and his financial condition at that time was such that he was compelled to work by the month at various occupations for a livelihood. He continued to labor in that manner for three years, putting by his savings, and hoping and trusting for better times in the future. Better times came, and after the expiration of three years, during which time he had labored for others, he rented land and cultivated the same for his own individual profit for four years. At this time of his life's history he was enabled by his economy in the past to purchase 80 acres of land, to which he has been adding from time to time until he is at present the proprietor of the fine estate already referred to. In addition to the cultivation of his land, he is and has been for some time engaged in raising a good grade of Short-horn cattle, and is meeting with success in both departments of his farm life. [Source: Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, Illinois, Published 1885, Biographical Pub Co., Chicago, IL; Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin, Tampico Area Historical Society,]
George Winters.
One of Henry County's prosperous, energetic and respected citizens is Mr. George WINTERS, who is engaged in agricultural pursuits on section 24 of Cornwall Township. He was born in Lincolnshire, England, in the year 1832, and remained in his native country until he attained the age of 25 years, when he concluded to emigrate to the New Word, the land of possibilities, and on the 16th of July, 1858. Mr. WINTERS arrived in Annawan, this country. In 1867 he made a purchase of 280 acres of land on his present site, where he and his family have since resided. Mr. WINTERS entered vigorously and actively upon the improvement of his land an it is now under a high state of cultivation. He has erected upon his farm a frame house and all necessary outbuildings, and has quite a desirable home, with all modern conveniences.
He was married before his emigration to the united States, on the 13th of May. 1858, the lady chosen for his companion being Miss Mary GASH. Of their union one son, William R. was born March 1, 1860. Religiously, Mr. W. is liberal in his opinions, and politically is a Republican. [Source: Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, IL, Published 1885; Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin, Tampico Area Historical Society]
James Johnston
An energetic and successful farmer of Cambridge Township, resideing and owning 160 acres on section 36, this township, was born Sept. 27, 1828, in Gallia Co., Ohio. His ancestors on his father's side were of Scotch descent, and on his mother's side of old New England stock. The grandfather of the subject of this notice, James JOHNSTON was bron on the River Tweed, Edinburgh, Scotland. He was married in that coury, and became the father of seven children born there. About 1820, he and his wife came to this country, and settled with their childrenin Gallia Co., Ohio, where the grandparents died. Of their children, Andrew JOHNSTON, the father of the subject of this notice, was 25 years of age when he landed upon the free soil of the United States. He was married in Ohio, to Olive WEED, a native ofChautauqua Co., No. Y. Both parents of or subject died in Gallia Co., Ohio. They reared eight children to the age of maturity, namely: Elizabeth, James, William,Andrew, Olive, wife of J. W. GLASSBURN, of Tampico, Whiteside county, Jeannette and Samuel;.
James JOHNSTON received such an education as was to be acquired of the schools of the day and locality in which he lived and spent his early life in his native county. He came to Illinois, in October, 1853, and settled in Knox County, where he was engaged in farming until 1876, when hemoved into Cambridge Township, this county, and continued to remain there. He owns a good farm of 160 acres of land on section 26, and is actively and energetically engaged in the task of its imporvemtn, meeting with success in his chosen vocation.
Mr. JOHNSTON was married in Ohio, Oct. 18, 1849, to Miss Abigail POWELL. She was born April, 1828, in Steuben Co., N. Y., and has borne her husband nine children: Almira E., Samuel T., both of whom died of scarlet fever shortly after they came to Knox Conty; Chalres L., who was killed at Altona, Knox County, by the railroad cars, aged 29 yeqrs; Mary A. is the wife of Alex. Julien; Andrew P. died when about 27 years old; Daniel J.; Kellum E. died aged 4 years; William S. and Fread A reside at home.
Mr. and Mrs. JOHNSTON are constistant members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. While a resident of Knox County, Mr. Johsnon filled several important offices, among which were Supervisor for six years. He has also been a Assessor of Cambridge Township two years. Since the demise of the old Whig party, and since Fremont ran for the Presidency, in 1856, Mr. JOHSNTON has cast his vote with the Republican party. He has been one of the Directors of the Cambridge Library Association, and takes an active interest in any enterprise that is calculated to benefit the community in which he resides. [Source: Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, IL, Published 1885; Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin, Tampico Area Historical Society]
ANDREW G. LARSON
Engaged as a farmer on section 28, Osco Township, was born in Sweden, July 25, 1837. He continued to reside in his native country until the summer of 1860, when he came to America and worked by the month in Andover Township, this County, about four years, when he bought 80 acres of land in Osco Township, located on section 28, where he erected good, substantial buildings and has since continued to reside until the presenttime. He now is the owner of 280 acres in this county, all of which is in an advanced state of cultivation. Mr. Andrew G. LARSON formed a matrimonial alliance at Moline, Ill., Nov. 1, 1866, with Tilda L. HOKONSON, who was born in Sweden, May 18, 1846. They are the parents of eight children, - Andrew J., Henry J., Carl R. and Gust. A., and four are deceased as follows: L. Edward met with his death from an accident received by a corn-stalk cutter; Nellie A. was injured while at school from a blow accidentaly given by a school-mate. Two died in infancy. Mr.LARSON is independent in his political views. [Source: Page 612, Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry County, IL, Published 1885; Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin, Tampico Area Historical Society] (end of bio)
Descendant, Dorrie Simon writes: LARSON-HOKANSON I went back to the Illinois Statewide Index and found the marriage listed as: Andrew G. Lawson - Matilda Louisa Hokanson 11/02/1866 Bk. C., page 678, Lic. 5162, Rock Island County. Believe she was probably the dau of Charles and Anna Sophia Hokanson who lived in Lynn Township, Henry Co., IL. The 1900 census says she arrived in the US in 1852, and Charles and Anna's first child born in the US was 1852. They have a daughter "M." listed as 14 b. Sweden in the household - too bad they didn't write out her name. Matilda gives her date of birth on the 1900 census as May 1847 instead of 1846 given on the census.. Charles and Anne moved to Bates Co., Missouri in 1871 but Matilda was married by then and remained in Henry Co., IL with her husband. I didn't really find many of the Swedish ancestors that left Henry Co. once they were established so that was a bit unusual as well.
A. G. Larson
ANDREW G. LARSON, a general farmer and stock-raiser, on section 9, Wester Township, was born in Linkoping, Sweden, March 28, 1835. His father, Lars SWENSON, also a native of Sweden and a farmer, married Beaty HOKINS, who was also born in the same place. They both passed all their lives in Sweden, he dying over 80 years of age.
Of the seven children in the above family, the subject of this sketch was the second. The five younger are living and are all married but one; two are living in America. Andrew lived at home until he was 18 years of age, when he engaged as a general laborer upon a farm. A year afterward, in 1854, he came alone to America, locating first in the city of Rock Island. He soon commenced to work in that vicinity as a brick manufacturer, and was also a farm hand for some time in this county. After his marriage , in 1859, , he settledupon an 80-acre farm in Lynn Township, this county, to which he added 120 more, and improved the same and resided there until the spring of 1880. He then came to Western Township, where he purchased 100 acres, and to which he has since added by purchase 160 acres. He has now an aggregate of 260 acres, most of which is judiciously improved, his farm being one of the best in the township. Mr.LARSON has been very successful as an agriculturist, and he is also highly esteemed by the commimoty in which he resides. He has held the office of Road Commissioner and Township Collector; has also been a Deacon in the Swedish Lutheran Church, and he is now holding the office of Trustee and Trasurer in that religious body.
Mr. LARSON was married at Andover, this county, Dec. 28, 1859, to Miss Helena S. LARSON, who was born in Central Sweden, in April, 1836. Her parents, Jonal LARSON and Anna LARSON, came to America about 1857, settling first in Geneseo, and afterward in Lynn Township, this county, where they spent the remainder of their days, being very aged at the time of their death. Mrs. LARSON, the wife of Andrew G., died at her home in Lynn Township in 1879, leaving seven chiuldren, named Ida M., Emma S., Anna B., Oscar, Clara A., Francis A. and Victor H. Henry and Augusta are deceased. Mrs. L. was also a member of the Swedish Luthern Church. [Source: Portrait & Biographical Album of Henry Co., IL, 1885, Page 454; Transcribed by: Denise McLoughlin, Tampico Area Historical Society]
JOSEPH and JOHN HAMMOND
"I expect to pass through this world but once; any good thing, therefore, that I can show to any fellow human being, let me do it now. Let me not defer nor neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again". (Stephen Grellet)
The Hammonds, father and son, are revered in Geneseo. Joseph and his son John, descendants of participants in the famous "Boston Tea Party," were probably Geneseo's earliest donors of larger amounts of money. They are the men who gave liberally of their means for the benefit of the city which was their home for many years. Of New England stock, they migrated to Geneseo shortly after the railroad was constructed. The elder Hammond, Joseph, was mayor of Geneseo in the early days.
It was found to be difficult to raise the funds to furnish the library which Joseph Hammond donated to the city in 1899. Upon hearing of this, Mr. Hammond promptly stepped into the breach and donated the money himself. The son, John, gave the hospital to the city in 1901. In 1910, the Hammond Foundation of $75,000 was established to maintain these institutions bringing the total amount of their philanthropies to approximately $115,000. [Submitted by Christine Walters]
WITHROW FAMILY:
In the month of June a small party left Knoxville IL for the purpose of exploring the land to the north (Henry County) with hopes of forming a settlement. The party consisted of Rev. George A. Colbert, P.K. Hanna, J.P. Hanna, J.D. Tabor, and Samuel and Neal Withrow. ....
...... In the next month, another wagon also found its way to Phenix, coming up from Shawneetown in souther Illinois. Neely and Polly WIthrow had been married there on May 20, 1830 and had taken up residence on his tract of land in White County, staying there until 1833. They then began a slow migration to Henry County int he company of several other families. They came to Red Oak Grove where they took out a claim and built a log cabin with puncheon floor. In the fall of the next year, Neely sold his claim in Red Oak and came to Phenix where he again staked a claim and built a cabin. He owned several cattle and broke the first ground with oxen. Mr. Withrow was the first Justice of the Peace in Phenix (township) and took part in the election to organize the county in 1837.
As an officer of the law, it was necessary for him to chain his prisoners to a huge block of wood in his own cabin, since there was no jail. They were placed by the fireplace where they could keep warm and get their rest whenever the occasion demanded.
Mr. Withrow was thrown from the sleigh and killed in 1841. His eldest son, Amariah, bought up land and remained in the township as did his widow and family.
Eugene Hayes
Eugene K. Hayes, born near Lafayette, Illinois, later farmed in Stark County and Westhersfield, had definite ideas of what was needed to revolutionize farming. In 1881 he moved to Kewanee and in 1882 started the production of "Kewanee Check Rowers." Three years later he built the first Hayes Corn Planter. In 1886 Mr. Hayes accepted a proposition for establishing a factory in Galva and by the end of that year the plant was in operation. The investment for the factory site was 45,000. When Mr. Hayes passed away in 1903, his sons continued the business. The Company weathered the financial difficulties of the 1920's but in 1928 controlling inverest was sold to the Vulcan Plow Company of Evansville, Indiana. The local plant became a part of Farm Tools Inc., in 1930. Operation was discontinued one year later.
Hayes Pump and Planter Company
Galva's main industry from 1886 until operation was discontinued in 1931, was the Hayes Pump and Planter Company. At one time there were 250 men on the payroll and the names of Hayes and Galva were carried on corn planters, pumps, cultivators, harrows, grain drills and other farm equipment, east, west, north and south in the United States as well as foreign countries. Dealers and distributors of the Hayes line at one time numbered 3,000
[Source: Corn, Commerce, and Country Living ... "History of Henry County IL", Edited by Terry Ellen Polson Published by the Henry County Board of Supervisors 1968 --- Submitted by Chris Walters]
©2004, Kim Torp
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