The year 1857 found the subject of this notice located on the farm which he now owns and occupies, and where he has since resided. He came to this county during the period of its early settlement, and shared, with his fellow-pioneers, the hardships of life at a time when their neighbors were few and far between, and before transportation was effected otherwise than 03- the slow method of teams. He was then a boy, and has practically grown up with the country. He is now a man who has passed his three-score years, and he has been an an interested witness of the many changes which have occurred since his first settlement in Northern Illinois.

A native of County Monaghan, Ireland, our subject was born July 20, 1828, and is the son of James and Mary (Rogers) Speer, who were natives of the North of Ireland, and who, in 1833, set out for the United States. They embarked on a sailing-vessel, and after a voyage of eight weeks and four days landed in Philadelphia, where all but the father remained until the spring of 1835. The father in the meantime came to this county, in the fall of 1834. arid earned sufficient money during the winter to send for his family in the spring. He had been located in Galena, and there they all sojourned until the fall of 1838. They then removed to Irish Hollow, in Elizabeth Township, and settled on a large tract of land before the survey had been made. In 1847. when the land came into market, the elder Speer purchased his claim, paying §1.25 per acre, the regular Government price. The old log cabin in which the}' resided is still preserved, standing on the farm of William Speer, in Elizabeth Township, although in rather a dilapidated condition.

The father of our subject was one of the earliest settlers of Irish Hollow. lie had come to this country poor in purse, but possessed great courage and endurance, and. in due time, became the owner of a large property, leaving at his death a fine estate for his family. He died at the old homestead Dec. 25, 1862, in the eighty-fifth year of his age. He became a naturalized citizen during the existence of the old Whig party, with which he allied himself, and he was a member of the Seceders' Presbyterian Church. Six of the seven children born to the parents are now living, namely: Elizabeth, Mrs. Steele, a widow, and a resident of Rice Township; Margaret, John, James R., William, and Charles.

Mr. Speer was reared to man's estate in this county, receiving his education in its primitive schools, although not attending after the age of ten years. It then became necessary for him to assist his father, and two years later, although still but a lad, owing to the ill-health of his father, he assumed many of the responsibilities of its management. He was assisted by his brothers and sisters as soon as they grew old enough, and they all worked together with a mutual interest. On the 28th of October, 1857, subject took unto himself a wife and helpmate. Miss Mary Moore, a native of this county and born in July, 1838. Her parents were Charles and Hannah (Rogers) Moore, who may also be property mentioned as among the early pioneers. The young couple began life together where they now reside, and in due time the household circle embraced eight children—one of whom, James, died when eight years old. The survivors are: Josiah. Minnie H., Elizabeth J., John M.. Agnes L, Margaret T., and Charles A. The training of Mr. Speer was calculated to develop within him the best qualities of manhood and citizenship. Following the footsteps of his honored father, he readily gave his support to the Republican party. Both he and his estimable wife are connected with the United Presbyterian Church. Their children are receiving an excellent home training and the education suitable to their means and position in life.

Transcribed by Christine Walters -- Portraits and Biographical 1889