Charles Robinson, whose portrait we present on the opposite page, owns a comfortable, well-improved farm of 100 acres, pleasantly located on section 7, Berreman Township, which he successfully manages, having brought it to its present high state of cultivation principally by the labor of his own hands. He has erected good buildings, and each year he adds something to enhance the beauty and value of his place. He is a native of Delaware, born at New Castle, New Castle County, July 26, 1836, being a son of Isaac and Elizabeth (Wetherell) Robinson. The former, a native of Bucks County, Pa., served several years as Chief of Police in Chester, Pa., and to him and his wife were born a family of nine children, seven of whom are living—George W., Thomas M., John A., David P., Isaac. Elizabeth, and Charles. George, a farmer near Salem, Mahoning Co., Ohio, married Amanda Poorman, of that county, and they have three children—Oliver, Milton, and Charles; Thomas, a farmer in Emporia, Kan., married Susie Hart, of Delaware County, Pa., and they have two children, George and Fanny; John, who served three years in the United States Navy, is supposed to be living in Pennsylvania; and David lives in that State; Isaac a plasterer, married a lady of Chester. Pa., and is supposed to be living there; Elizabeth is married, and lives near Manayunk, Pa.

Charles, the subject of our sketch, went with his parents to Pennsylvania when quite young, and in that State received the rudiments of a substantial education. After becoming old enough to work for his own maintenance, he entered a cotton-mill where he was employed for some years. At the breaking out of the late Rebellion, inspired by patriotic motives, he enlisted as a private in Col. Baker's regiment, which after the Ball's Bluff fight, was consolidated with the 106th Pennsylvania Infantry. He took an active part in several engagements, and was severely wounded June 29, 1862, at Savage Station, on the fifth day of the memorable "Seven-day's battle", and on account of his injuries was taken prisoner, and subsequently confined at Libby, Castle Thunder, and at Belle Isle, at various times within the three months prior to his parolement and exchange. He then joined his regiment at Harper's Ferry, 'Md., but his wounds not being healed he was* sent to Summit hospital at Philadelphia. Six months later he was transferred to the second batallion, of which he was a member until the expiration of his term of enlistment. Receiv- ing an honorable discharge, he returned to Pennsylvania, and in the fall of 1864 removed to Ohio. Our subject remained in that State until April 8, 1868, when, to improve his financial prospects, he came to Illinois and located in Stephenson County. After a two years' residence there, Mr. Robinson came to Jo Daviess County, and rented a farm in Berreman Township for one year; then bought his present homestead. It was partly improved, and to complete the work then begun, he has labored unceasingly and has been unusually ^prosperous. On his fertile farm he raises good crops of grain and keeps stock of all kinds.

Mr. Robinson has been twice married. His first wife was Mrs. Mary E. Walters, nee Thompson, of Philadelphia, a widow with one child, Ida Walters. Of her union with our subject seven children were born, six of whom are living—Elizabeth W., Mary A., Charles C, George B. M., Harriet E., and Edith B. Elizabeth married Henry T. Daws, a farmer of Kent Township, Stephenson County. Mary is a successful teacher. Charles is a farmer in Broken Bow, Custer Co., Neb. The maiden name of the present wife of Mr. Robinson was Minnie M. Hager. She was born in Ward's Grove, Jo Daviess County, Dec. 6, 1855, and previous to her marriage with our subject was a popular teacher in the public schools. Of her marriage one child has been born, Will Carleton. Mrs. Robinson is an amiable, accomplished woman, warmly esteemed by her large circle of friends, and is a devout member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Mr. Robinson is a man of more than common ability, and one of the most popular and influential citizens of his adopted township, possessing the confidence and esteem of the community. Socially, he is a member of Plum River Lodge No. 554, at Morseville, of which he has been Master for three years, and is also a member of J. Maltby Post No. 520. G. A. R. In politics, he is a straight Republican, heartily in accord with his party. He is also a member of the Republican Count}' Central Committee. He is at present ably fulfilling the duties of Township Supervisor; this being his fourth consecutive term in that office.

Transcribed by Christine Walters - Portrait and Biographical Album of Jo Daviess and Carroll Counties, Illinois (1889)