This prominent farmer and stock-raiser of Hanover Township makes his home on section G, where he has a fine farm of 280 acres. He was born in the North of Ireland Dec. 25, 1834, and is a son of Joseph and Jane (Hilliard) Robinson, both of Scotch descent. They were the parents of three children—Thomas, now living in New South Wales, Australia; George, on the Island of New Zealand, and our subject. The hitter's early life was spent in his native count}*, and he there received a common-school education. While still quite young he determined to try his fortunes in the New World. and in the spring of 1S60 he took passage from Liverpool on the American sailing-ship " Albert Gallatin." After a voyage of four weeks he landed at New York City, and at once came to Jo Daviess County, which he had previously determined upon as a home. For about three years he worked as a farm-hand for Andrew Sherrard, of West Galena Township, and afterward for A. M. Bouton of the same place. For the nest two years he was employed by the Galena and Mineral Point Turnpike Company. At the end of this time lie began the life of a farmer, in which he has been more than ordinarily successful. For several years he lived on rented land, but in 1870 settled upon the farm which has since been his home. His first purchase consisted of 160 acres, 25 of which were cleared, and under partial cultivation, with a small dwelling-house and outbuildings. He has cleared up the other 135 acres, and has added 120 more by purchase, giving him one of the finest farms in the vicinity, comprising in all 280 acres of good land, with everything necessary for its successful operation. Since settling here he has been prosperous both in general farming and stock-raising.

August 28, 1862, our subject was united in marriage with Hannah Nesbitt, who was born in County Monnsrban. Ireland, Dec. 2.5, 1837. She is a daughter of James and Martha (Simpson) Nesbitt, both still living in Ireland, their native country. Mrs. Robinson is the eldest of their family of nine children. Our subject and wife are the parents of two children—Nesbitt H., born Aug. 27, 1863. and William T., Feb. 3. 1S67.

When Mr. Robinson first arrived in this county he had but %30 in money, and the fine estate winch he has accumulated is the result of an industrious and frugal life, and of work which has been guided by superior judgment. His devoted wife has nobly assisted him in his efforts, being to him a true helpmate and counselor. Both are members of the Presbyterian Church at Hanover. IL., of which for a number of years he has been Elder. They take an active interest in the social life of the neighborhood, and now in the prime of life are enjoying the fruits of years spent in usefulness and in well-doing. Those who know them best respect them most, and in the community of which they are so prominent a factor the family are held in the highest esteem. Mr. Robinson is widely known as a man of sterling integrity, of many virtues, and of great nobility of character. He is an ardent advocate of the cause of Prohibition, believing that it will benefit the whole country, and whenever he has opportunity he votes for the candidates of that party.

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