The annals of the early history of Jo Daviess County would by no means be complete without the mention of Mr. Wishorn and his estimable wife. As representatives of the pioneer element, they stand in the front rank, having contributed their full quota to the growth and development of this county, by building up one of its most valuable homesteads, and exerting a healthy influence among its people. They have been residents of Elizabeth Township since 1841,and their well-regulated farm presents one of the most attractive spots in its landscape.

A native of Cumberland County, Ky., our subject was born Dec. 19, 1822. The family believe their ancestry to have been of French descent on the father's side, while the mother's progenitors were traced to Holland. Adam and Nancy J. (Miller) Wishorn, the parents of Martin were born it is supposed, in North Carolina. About eight years after the birth of our subject, they emigrated to Illinois, locating first in Morgan County, when they lived a number of years, then removed to what is now known as Scott County, where they were among the earliest pioneers, and where they spent the remainder of their days. They had a family of nine children of whom the following survive, namely Samuel, a resident of White County, this State: Peggy, Mrs. McPherson, a widow and a resident of Scott County; Martin, our subject; and Clara J., Mrs. William Jackson, of Scott County.

Our subject attained to man's estate in Scott County, Ill., in the meantime acquiring a limited education, although by reading the books upon which he could lay his hands, he has managed to keep himself well-informed, and is considered a very intelligent man. In the summer of 1841 he accompanied his brother John to this county, and for several years thereafter employed himself at whatever he could find to do, working by the month, teaming, etc. He in the meantime secured eighty acres of land in Elizabeth Township, and after settling upon this, made it his home for a period of twenty years. With the exception of ten acres which had been broken there were no improvements, and he set himself to the task of constructing a homestead with all the natural energy of his character. He was prospered in his labors, and later added to his real estate until he is now the owner of 1,200 acres, all of which is in productive condition. It may be said in passing that his brother, John Wishorn. emigrated from this county westward, and is supposed to have been killed on the plains as he was never afterward beard from.

The 20th of July. 1850, was made memorable in the life of our subject by his marriage with Miss Catherine Tenyck, who was born in New York Sept. 27, 1832. The parents of Mrs. Wishorn were Edward and Cornelia Tenyek, whose family consisted of ten children, five of whom are living, Mrs. Wishorn being the eldest. Parmelia is the wife of Joseph Richards, of Nora, this county; Mary E. (deceased); Nancy J. is the wife of William Buchannan of Cheyenne Wyoming Territory; James and Ida are deceased; Cora is the wife of George Bedell of Keokuk, Iowa; Lucy, (deceased); Edith is the wife of Harry Robinson of Elizabeth, this county; John is deceased. A peculiar fact in connection with this family is that every other child is deceased.

Mr. Wishorn about 1868, leaving the farm, took up his residence in Elizabeth where he has since resided. Mrs. Wishorn was one of the pioneer teachers of this part of the county, and was thus employed in Elizabeth three terms. She and her husband have made hosts of friends during their long residence in this section, signalizing themselves as liberal and public-spirited citizens, always awake to the interests of the people around, and uniformly willing to contribute their quota toward everything effecting the welfare of their community.

Transcribed by Christine Walters - Portrait and Biographical Album of Jo Daviess and Carroll Counties, Illinois (1889) Pg 649