It is a little over twenty years since tbe gentleman named in connection with this history took up his abode on the land which he now owns and occupies, and which he has transformed into a valuable homestead. It is pleasantly located on section 29. and gives evidence of the outlay of time, labor, and money which have been employed in bringing it to the condition of one of the best regulated farms in this section. This pioneer of Jo Daviess County has had an experience in common with his neighbors, one of toil and hardship, but like many of them he has been rewarded in the acquisition of a competency for his declining years.

Mr. Statham in the year 1885 completed an elegant residence, which, with its surroundings and the 395 acres comprising the farm, should produce in the owner most comfortable sensations. In connection with general agriculture he is quite extensively engaged in stock-raising, and has for the successful prosecution of this industry all the modern conveniences suggested to the intelligent and progressive farmer. The dwelling as may be supposed is finished and furnished in modern style, possessing the conveniences which were unknown to the pioneer, and the outbuildings are in nowise lacking in the same. Mr. Statham has the proper conception of the true methods of fanning in all its branches, and is thus enabled to accomplish a vast amount of labor with little friction and comparatively no loss of time.

Oneida County, N. Y. was the native place of our subject, and the date of his birth June 17, 1834. Thomas and Hannah (Moslem) Statham, his parents, were natives of England, whence they emigrated to the United States after their marriage. In 1842. leaving the Empire State, they made their way to Northern Illinois and settled first on the Burton farm in Elizabeth Township, where the father operated as a renter. Later he secured land which is now included in the farm of his son, John T. Here the parents spent the remainder of their lives; the father resting from his earthly labors in October, 1851,and the mother in November, 1868. Their family consisted of twelve children, nine of whom survive.

Mr. Statham was reared to man's estate in this county, acquiring his education under the unde- veloped school system of that day; which has been under process of improvement continuously since that time, as he lias been a reader of books and newspapers, and kept himself posted upon matters of general interest. With the exception of five years he has been continuously a resident of Elizabeth Township. For two and one-half years he occupied himself in mining for gold in Montana, and the same length of time was employed as a butcher at Leesburg, Idaho.

The 24th of February, 1869, was a day in the life of our subject, made memorable by his marriage with Miss Elizabeth A. Bicwctt, which took place in Elizabeth Township. Mrs. Statham was born .Tune 20, 1843, and is the daughter of John and Margaret (Brookens) Blewett, who were natives of England, and who emigrated to this county at an early period in its history. They were the parents of seven children, six of whom are living. The mother makes her home with Mrs. Statham; the father is deceased.

The household circle of Mr. and Mrs. Statham was completed by the birth of eight children who were named respectively: Thomas, John, William I., Elizabeth, Margaret, Harvey G., Hannah L., and Matthew R, They are all at home with their parents, and are being given the training and education which will fit them for useful members of the community.

Transcribed by Christine Walters -- Portraits and Biographical 1889