The mother of Asa died while her son was an infant, and he was cared for by an older sister. At nine years of age he was “bound out” but six years later he rejoined his father, who was “coming west”. Clinton Co, OH was their destination, and here the boy helped clear the farm and shared in the toil and hardship of pioneer life. Now and then in the winter time he was sent to school for a brief term, but he received altogether not more than thirteen months of such instruction.

      At the age of twenty-two, together with an older brother, purchased a farm; and four years later, Oct. 7, 1830, Mr. Haynes was married to Miss Mary Gaddis, of Fayette County, Pennsylvania. She was of Irish descent, was a noted beauty, and there were many suitors for her hand. She proved a devoted wife, and cheerfully bore her part in the common burdens of the time.

      In 1836, Mr. and Mrs. Haynes removed to Knox County. They occupied nineteen days upon the trip, in almost continuous rain, finding the rivers greatly swollen, and reaching their journey’s end only after much discomfort and danger. They began their residence in Illinois in a log cabin of one room, located in Section 30 of Orange Township, where Mr. Haynes had purchased 300 acres of land.

      The enterprise of Asa Haynes was equal to the opportunities afforded by the undeveloped country. Soon after his arrival he started a brick yard, and in 1840, built a saw-mill on Brush Creek. His appreciation of the advantages of education is evidenced by the fact that in winter he opened a school in his own house and taught it himself. In 1843 he built a large frame barn—the largest in the county at the time. The “raising” was an historic event; with only three exceptions every man in Knox County was present to assist. The next year saw the erection of a fine two-story brick house of twelve rooms, which is still standing. The lumber for the barn and the brick for the dwelling had been manufactured by Mr. Haynes himself; most of the furniture was constructed on the spot, a competent workman having been secured for the purpose. A large number of hands were employed upon the place, until it seemed more like a colony than a farm. Sheep were kept to supply the wool needed for clothing, and a tailoress was hired for six months every year to cut and make the homespun suits. With such a spirit of ambitious enterprise Mr. Haynes prospered, and performed his part in the development of Knox County. He was County Commissioner and Supervisor for several years.

      Mr. Haynes was one of the celebrated “Jayhawkers” of 1849, and in that year, crossed the plains as Captain of the company from Monmouth.  Foxie's Note: he kept a diary of his trip with the Jayhawkers plus, they later had reunions till they all died out.  In California in Death Valley they have a group who keep the Jayhawkers alive. I was very fortunate to be able to meet and help one man named Marvin and do research and guide him around Knox county when he came here. Marvin is such a delightful person and would also love to put a memorial in the Colton Park for the Jayhawkers. He was a republican, and during the Civil War was outspoken in the _expression of loyal sentiments and was several times threatened by the notorious Knights of the Golden Circle, though without effect. 

      For many years he was a noted stock-raiser, having been the first to introduce the spotted China hog, and one of the three men who first brought shorthorn cattle into Knox County. He was one of the founders of the Knox County Agricultural Society. At one time, Mr. Haynes owned nearly 1,000 acres of land in Orange Township, 500 acres in Iowa, and two fine farms in California, where, for several years, he made his home.

 In religion he was a Protestant Methodist. He died at the old homestead in Orange Township March 29, 1889.

      Eight children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Haynes: Clark, deceased; Margaret; Elizabeth; Anna M., deceased; Nancy; Mary E.; Charles A.; and Elery, deceased. One son and one daughter live in Kansas; two daughters are living in Missouri, and one daughter lives in Orange Township, near the old home.

Heath, William, Galesburg; born May 25, 1862 at Center Point, Knox Co, IL. His parents were William Heath of New York and Lucinda M. (Field) Heath of Vermont. Lucinda M. Heath was born in Cornwall, Addison Co, VT, April 16, 1819, and came to Illinois with her parents in 1836. Her marriage with Mr. Heath, Aug., 3, 1837, was the first in Knoxville. They lived on a farm near Center Point for twenty-eight years, and then moved to Wataga, where Mr. Heath died Mar. 31, 1882. After her husband’s death, Mrs. Heath moved to Galesburg and lived with her son William, at whose home she died July 11, 1899. She was one of the bravest and most resourceful of the early pioneer mothers, and is remembered by her host of friends as a strong, sweet, and noble personality. 

      Mr. William Heath was married to Kate E. Armstrong of Galesburg, at Fargo, N. D., Sept. 10, 1892. For the past ten years he has been with the Deering Harvester Company of Chicago, and is now their General Agent located at Galesburg.

Hedstrom, Charles O., Farmer; Victoria Township; born in Walnut Grove Township, Jan. 29, 1868. His father, Nels Hedstrom, was an early settler and prominent farmer of Walnut Grove Township. Charles O. Hedstrom was educated in the common schools, and began farming in 1892, with his brother. In 1894 he located on a farm in Victoria Township, where he now resides. 

      He was married to May Herald of Victoria, July 28, 1892. They had three children: Cecil C, Hester, and Josephine. 

      He is a republican, and a member of the Modern Woodmen of America. He is one of the leading farmers of his township.

Hedstrom, Jonas, The precise place of Mr. Hedstrom’s birth cannot be certainly told, but it is believed to have occurred on the Island of Oland, Sweden, Aug. 13, 1813. His brother, Olof, who was ten years older, had as early as 1825, arrived in New York, and within a decade had become a Methodist Minister. In 1833 Olof visited the fatherland, and on his return to America was accompanied by Jonas. The first few years of his residence in this country, Jonas passed in the States of New York and Pennsylvania, and worked at his trade as a blacksmith. When a family named Sornberger moved west to Victoria, IL, the young smith was irresistibly led to follow them in 1838. The reason was made clear when he shortly married one of the Misses Sornberger. He took up his abode with his wife at Farmington. 

      During his residence in the east, he had become converted to Methodism, and in 1839 he commenced to preach in the Salem school house, a little way east of Victoria, still continuing to work at his forge, as his regular occupation. His sermons were in English, and were listened to by many of the settlers thereabouts. However, believing that many of his countrymen would soon cross the ocean and find a home on the western prairies, he obtained from his pastor, Mr. Clark, a testament with the English and Swedish text in parallel columns. Thus he renewed his knowledge of the Swedish tongue, which he had almost forgotten. 

      The preparation was timely. Swedish immigrants came, many of them directed to Illinois through Rev. Olof Hedstrom, who was conducting a mission for them in the Bethel ship at New York. In 1845,  Olof Olson, who had been sent by the Jansonists of north central Sweden to secure a suitable site for the colony, was directed to Jonas Hedstrom, and by him assisted in purchasing the first land for the Bishop Hill colony. 

      In July 1846, Eric Janson and a band of followers, came to Victoria and were hospitably entertained by Mr. Hedstrom, after which they were piloted to their destination.

      On Dec. 15, 1846, Jonas Hedstrom organized in his log cabin at Victoria, a Swedish Methodist Church, with a nucleus of five members. This was the first Swedish Methodist organization in the world. The small beginning grew and flourished, and Mr. Hedstrom was led to join the Peoria conference in 1847. Thenceforth he devoted his time entirely to the ministry, becoming an indefatigable worker. He traveled extensively over a wide circuit, and established churches at Andover, Galesburg, Rock Island and Moline; and assisted in forming a church at New Sweden, Iowa, and a Norwegian organization at Leland, IL. 

      His strong constitution finally succumbed to the severities of “circuit” life. In the fall of 1857 he retired, and on May 11, 1859, went to his heavenly reward, at the age of 45. The funeral sermon was preached by Rev. W. P. Graves, and the remains interred in Victoria cemetery. In 1874 his wife passed away. Of his five children, two are living—Luther Hedstrom and Mrs. Becker of Victoria.

Heller, William H., Physician; Abingdon; born May 11, 1823, in Ashland, Ohio; educated in the common schools. His father, John Heller, was born in Pennsylvania, came to Illinois in 1835, and settled in Cuba, Fulton Co., IL.  Dr. Heller’s mother was a native of New Jersey. His grandfather, John Heller, was a Revolutionary soldier, and settled in Pennsylvania at an early date. Dr. Heller attended schools at Cuba, and studied medicine under Dr. Raymond at a medical college in Chicago. After graduating he began practice in Cuba, IL., and afterwards located at Abingdon, where he has practiced medicine for many years. 

      In 1846, he married Mary D. Mosher, in Fulton Co., IL. Five children were born to them: Robley E.; Joseph M.; John L.; Frank L; and Willie, who died in infancy. Joseph and John are physicians in Kansas. In politics Dr. Heller is a prohibitionist.

Henderson, David, Farmer; Henderson Township; born Jan. 26, 1822, in Fayette Co, PA, where he was educated. His father, Stewart Henderson, was born in Ireland; his mother Anna (Hunt) Henderson, in PA. 

      David Henderson was married to Sophia Davis Poplett, in Ontario Township, in June 1853. Their children are: Nancy Ann, Mary Jane, Jacob Harvey, Nellie Sophia, Peter Davis, and Thomas. Harriet Amanda and David Alexander died in infancy. In religion, Mr. Henderson is a Protestant. He is a democrat.

Hensley, H. J., Physician and Druggist; Yates City, Salem Township; born in Hurman, Fulton Co, IL., June 21, 1863. His father, John Wesley Hensley, was born in Kentucky, Oct. 9, 1835; settled in Fulton County in 1854, removing to Yates City in 1864, and is now a practicing physician in Peoria, IL. His mother, Elizabeth, was born in Vermont. His grandparents, Evans and Anna Hensley, were born in Kentucky. 

      In Feb. 1889, Dr. Hensley married Etha Carter in Yates City; they have two children: Lucile C., born Feb 25, 1891; and Myrta E., born Dec. 25, 1894. Mrs. Hensley was born in Yates City, Sept 8, 1878; she was a daughter of David M. and Lavinia Carter, who are both living in Yates City; she is a member of the Eastern Star. In religion, she is a Methodist.

      Dr. Hensley is a graduate of Rush Medical College; he is a member of the Masonic Order, Lodge No. 448, Yates City, Eureka Chapter, No. 98. He has been President of the City Council, and was Postmaster from 1892 to 1896. In politics he is a democrat. Besides his practice as a physician, he has a flourishing business as druggist.

Hickman, Alfred W., Farmer; Henderson Township; born Feb. 4, 1867, in Henderson Township; educated in Galesburg. His parents were Jacob Hickman, of Wilmington, Delaware, and Mary Ann (Chapman) Hickman, of Oneida Co., NY. His paternal grandfather was John Hickman, and his grandmother’s maiden name was Junk; they were of Sussex Co., DE., his maternal grandparents were Samuel Chapman of Oneida Co, NY, and Mary Chapman, of Westmoreland, NY. Mr. Jacob Hickman died July 24, 1898. 

      Mr. A. W. Hickman was married to Alice Windom, at Galesburg, IL., Oct. 1893. He is a democrat.

Higgins, Addison P., Farmer and Stockman; Galesburg, where he was born in 1844. His father, Americus Higgins, came to Galesburg in 1837. Mr. Higgins is a large landowner in Illinois, Missouri, and Kansas, and is extensively engaged in stock-raising.

      In 1874, Mr. Higgins was married to Mattie J. Meecham. They have three children: Cyrus M., Martin S., and Lucy A. 

      Mr. Higgins was educated in the common schools. He is a republican and a prohibitionist.

Hill, Charles M., Conductor; Galesburg; born March 3, 18562, in Malden, IL., where he was educated. His parents were John and Maria (McGee) Hill of Ohio; his grandfather was Allison Hill of New Jersey. 

      Mr. C. M. Hill was married to Ellen, the daughter of Jerry and Mary O’Connor, of Ireland. She was born in Peru, IL. There were two children, Charles Francis and John William. 

      His second marriage, which occurred in Chicago, IL., May 17, 1897, was with Georgie, daughter of Clayton S. Gibbs, of Illinois, and Helen J. (Bevier) Gibbs, of Albany, New York. They have one child, Helen. Mrs. Hill’s paternal grandparents were Jonathan Gibbs, of New Jersey, and Tamer Norcross Gibbs; her maternal grandparents were Abraham Bevier of Holland, and Adaline (Gordon) Bevier of New York. 

      Mr. Hill’s father was a broom-maker by trade, but was a farmer most of his life. He moved to Illinois in 1856, and settled on a farm at Berlin Center. He died May 9, 1892, his wife surviving him but a short time. 

      Mr. C. M. Hill spent his early years on the farm, and at the age of 13, the family moved to town, and he worked at teaming. In 1885, he entered the employ of the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad as brakeman, and in 1888 was promoted to the position of conductor. He is a member of the O. R. C. Mr. Hill is independent in politics.

Hilton, A. Frank, Engineer; Galesburg; born in 1840, in Orange Co, NY, where he was educated. He enlisted in 1862, and served until the close of the war. July 12, 1865, he began work for the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad Company, and after successive promotions was made Superintendent of the Galesburg Division. 

      In 1876 he was married to Emma Russell. They have two children, Richard R. and Russell D. Mr. Hilton has been an engineer on the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad since 1890.

Hinchliff, J. E., Merchant; Galesburg; born July 17, 1853 at Rio, Illinois. Educated at Rio and Galesburg. His parents, James and Betsey Hinchliff, were born in England. 

      He was married Jan. 1, 1880 at Rio, to Ida M. Woodman. There are four children: Everett E., Lulu May, Ray W., and Grace F. 

      In religion he is a Congregationalist. In politics, a republican.

Hinman, Fred R., Chief of Police; Galesburg, born July 8, 1863, at Adrian, Michigan; educated in Adrian and Galesburg. His parents were Frederick Hinman, born May 24, 1831, and Eliza (Gish) Hinman, born in 1835, in Erie Co, NY; his paternal grandparents were Seth Hinman, of Erie Co, NY, born 1804, and Louisa (Kendall) Hinman, born May 8, 1813, in Jefferson Co, NY. His paternal great-grandparents were from England; his maternal grandparents were Jacob Gish, of Dauphin Co, PA, born 1805, and Mary Davis Gish, of New York. His maternal great-grandmother, Davis, who was born near Boston, MA., in 1776, was related to Jefferson Davis. Maternal great-grandmother was a Petty, born in New Hampshire. 

      Frederick Hinman was for many years an engineer on the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad. Mary Davis Gish was a passenger on the first train west out of Baltimore, Maryland. 

      Mr. Hinman was married in Galesburg, Nov. 13, 1889, to Mabel A., daughter of the late J. R. Goddard, who was State Live Stock Commissioner. She was born in Adrian, Michigan, and her ancestors can be traced to the Mayflower. Mr. and Mrs. Hinman have three children, Jennie Mabel, Frederick Stanley, and Kendall Goddard. 

      Mr. Hinman was a charter member of Lodge No. 213, I. A. of M., was Master Machinist of the lodge, and has represented it in the Trades and Labor Assembly. He is a member of the Oak Leaf Camp, M. W. A., No. 92, and of the K. O. T. M., Lodge No 152. He has been a delegate to the city, county, and State conventions. Mr. Hinman is a member of the Methodist Church. In politics, he is a republican. He was appointed Chief of Police by Mayor Tunnicliff in 1895, reappointed by Mayor Cooke, and is at present retained by Mayor Carney.

Hinthorn, John F., Station Agent at Dahinda, Persifer Township, Knox County; was born in McLean Co., IL. June 3, 1858. His parents, Silas James and Rachel (Lindsey) Hinthorn, were married in Fulton Co, IL., and began their married life in McLean Co, on a farm where his father had lived from childhood. To them were born two sons, the younger dying in infancy. When about three years of age his mother was taken sick with quick consumption, and the family removed to Fulton Co., to her father’s, where she died after an illness of about six months. His father returned to McLean County, leaving John F. with his grandparents, Reuben Lindsey and wife. Soon after the breaking out of the Civil War, his father enlisted in one of the volunteer companies then being organized in Bloomington, IL., and served about three years, nearly all of which time he was in active service, without having received a wound. He lived in McLean, Woodford, and Tazewell counties until his death near Peoria in April 1899, at the age of 66 years.

      John F. Hinthorn remained with his grandparents near Vermont, IL.--Fulton co., until 18 years of age, when he went to Bushill, IL. and learned the trade of harness-making, at which he worked until 1882. He then studied telegraphy and station agency on the Wabash, St. Louis and Peoria Railroad, at Waverly, IL., where he worked for five years, finally leaving the service of that company at Grafton, IL. He immediately went to Kansas and accepted a like position with the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad, working at various places until Feb. 1888, when he accepted a similar position at the company’s station at Dahinda, IL., where he is still employed. 

      Mr. Hinthorn was married to Asenath Booth at Knoxville, IL, Nov. 1, 1885. They have two children: James E. and Clinton B. Mrs. Asenath Hinthorn was born and reared in Knoxville, IL. Her father, Edwin Booth, was born in Connecticut, Feb 26, 1810, and died Nov. 25, 1885. Her mother, Nancy (Fuller) Booth, was born in New York State, July 10, 1819, and died Feb. 8, 1899. Mr. and Mrs. Booth were married in the East and moved to Illinois at a comparatively early day, finally settling in Knoxville, where they resided until their death. They had three children, Asenath being the youngest. She is a woman of true Christian character, a faithful wife and devoted mother. Mr. and Mrs. Hinthorn are especially interested in church and Sunday school work, and are members of the Methodist Church, Mr. Hinthorn being Superintendent of the Sunday school. In politics, Mr. Hinthorn is a prohibitionist.

Hjerpe, John, Mason and contractor; Galesburg; born Dec. 5, 1862, in Vermland, Sweden, where he was educated, and where he learned the trade of mason. He came to Galesburg in 1883.

      In 1886, he was married to Hannah, daughter of Gustavus Peterson; they had four children, Carl, Edna, Harold, and Leslie. 

      Mr. Hjerpe has been a prominent contractor since 1890.

Hobkirk, James, Farmer; Maquon Township; born Feb 9, 1827 in Conoble, Scotland, where he was educated, and learned to be a baker. His father, Robert Hobkirk, spent four years in America and was born near Hawick, Scotland; his mother, Mary (Armstrong) was born in Conoble. They died in Scotland. Robert Hobkirk’s father, William, was lost in the wilds of Canada. Mary Armstrong Hobkirk’s parents, William Armstrong and Fannie (Moffat) were Scotch; the former was born in Conoble. 

      In May 1849, James Hobkirk was married to Jane Beattie in Scotland, and in August reached Maquon and took up farming, although he had previously been a baker. He rented a farm until 1860 when he bought 83 acres in Haw Creek Township, where he raised stock. In 1888 he moved to Maquon where he bought five acres of improved land. Between the years 1870 and 1880, he was twice elected Justice of the Peace, but having at that time no political aspirations, declined to serve; he is now, however, serving his second term in that office. He has taken a deep interest in educational matters and was School Director for seventeen years. In religion he is a Presbyterian. In politics he is a democrat.

      His wife Jane (Beattie) died Feb. 7, 1897, aged 72 years. They had two children, Mary and Martha. The former is now the home-keeper; the latter is a teacher in Haw Creek Township.

Hodges, Ellen Cobean, Henderson Township; born Dec. 10, 1844, in Gettysburg, PA; educated in Pennsylvania, and Knoxville, IL. Her parents, Robert and Nancy (McIlhenny) Cobean; her paternal grandparents, James and Elizabeth (Stewart) Cobean; and her maternal grandparents, Victor and Nancy (Orr) McIlhenny, were born in Gettysburg, PA; her paternal great-grandfather, William Cobean, was born in Scotland; and her maternal great-grandparents, George and Nancy (McClure) Orr, were born in Ireland. 

      Mrs. Hodges was married to John Hodges in Galesburg, IL., April 15, 1867. Their children are: Bertha, Myron, Nellie, Charles, and Robert.

Hofflander, Gust, Saloonkeeper; Galesburg; born April 3, 1865, in Blekinge, Sweden, where he was educated. His parents were Lars and Ingrid (Olson) Hofflander, born in Sweden Oct. 6 and Nov. 11, 1838. 

      Mr. Hofflander was married to Bettie Swanson in 1890, at Galesburg, IL. Their children are: Fred Herman, Hilding Gunnar, Ethel Irine, and Agnes Elvira.

      Mr. Hofflander is a member of the Lutheran Church.

Holm, John, Farmer; Ontario Township; born July 18, 1850, in Smoland, Sweden; educated in the district schools. His parents were Nils P. and Anna L. (Larson) Holm, of Sweden; the father lives with his son John, the mother died in Sweden; his grandfathers were Magnuson Nelson and Lars Johnson. 

      His first wife was Aleda Olson. Their children were: Selan K. M., wife of Frank Seastrand; J. Otto; Ellen O.; Frank Edwin; Frederick L.; Minnie V.; and Leda. 

      His second marriage was in Galesburg, Feb. 7, 1893, to Helen Ericson. They have one child, Lester G. 

      Mr. Holm landed at Quebec, and came to Galesburg in 1868. He worked for farmers for five years, and then rented land until 1884. He bought the Wheeler farm of 80 acres, which he sold in 1887, and bought 160 acres in Section 22, where he now lives. He owns another farm of 83 acres on Section 16. Mr. Holm is a republican. He has been a School Director.

Holmes, Sollis R., Retired; Galesburg; born in Waterville, Vermont, April 14, 1822; educated in Bakersfield, Vermont. His father, Jesse Christie Holmes, was born in Peterboro, New Hampshire, in 1787; his mother, Orinda (Oakes) Holmes, was born in Cambridge, Vermont, in 1798. His paternal grandparents were Robert and Mary (Weir) Holmes, natives of Londonderry, New Hampshire; his maternal grandparents were John and Esther (Cochran) Oakes, natives of Vermont. His great-grandfather, on the father’s side, was John Holmes, of Londonderry, Ireland, which town was also the residence of his great-great-grandfather, Abraham Holmes, born in 1683. 

      In 1845, Mr. S. R. Holmes came west, and for two years taught school in Philadelphia, Missouri; he then taught for five years in Warsaw, IL. He afterwards kept a warehouse in Warsaw for two years, and was agent for the Keokuk and St. Louis Packet Company. In 1855, he engaged in the hardware trade. 

      During the Civil War, Mr. Holmes was Deputy Provost Marshal in what was then the Fourth District of Illinois, with headquarters at Quincy. While a resident of Warsaw, he held various public offices, including those of City Treasurer, Alderman, and Mayor. In 1870, he became adjuster for a fire insurance company, his field covering nine northwestern States. He was later insurance inspector for several cities, with headquarters at Burlington, Iowa. In 1893, he retired from active business. 

      Mr. Holmes was married June 10, 1849, to Rosette A. Farnsworth, at Bakersfield, Vermont. There are six children, Horace Atherton, Fred Hosmer, Frank Farnsworth, Jessie Rosette, Sollis Perry, and Norman Vernon. Mr. Holmes is a Presbyterian. In politics, he is a republican.

Holt, Martin S., Farmer; Ontario Township; born Sept. 7, 1836, at Lykens, Crawford Co, OH., where he was educated. His parents were Sidney Holt of Madison, Oneida Co., NY and Ruth (Andrews) Holt of Pennsylvania. 

      He was married to Martha Pittard in Ontario Township, IL., Dec. 28, 1865. Mr. and Mrs. Holt have five children: Albert Allen, Mary E., George H., Sidney V., and Frank W. 

      Mr. Holt belongs to the Congregational Church. In politics, he is a republican.

Holton, Frederick, Knoxville; Shoemaker, and Night Watchman for the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad; born Nov. 20, 1836, in Frederick Co., Maryland; educated in Ohio. Mr. Holton’s parents, Thomas and Cordelia (Petticord) Holton, were natives of Maryland; his paternal grandfather, Thomas Holton, came from the North of Ireland. The family came to the United States before the Revolution, and Thomas Holton (the grandfather) and his brother served in that war. Thomas Holton (the father) was a soldier in the War of 1812. Frederick Holton enlisted May 23, 1861, in Company B., Illinois Volunteers, and was honorably discharged at the close of the war. He is a member of James Shields’ Post, No. 45, Grand Army of the Republic, Galesburg, IL.

      In May 1866, Mr. Holton was married in Missouri to Mrs. Emily (Milsted) Prenatt; they have had four children: Sarah S. (now Mrs. H. W. Wilson), George W., Howard J., and Frederick I. Frederick I. died at the age of 27. 

      In religion, Mr. Holton is a Nominal Protestant. He is a republican.

Hoopes, James L., Galesburg; born Aug. 11, 1857, in Vermont, IL, Fulton co--where he was educated. His parents were William Hoopes, of Ohio, and Mary A. (McCleary) Hoopes, of Illinois. 

      He was married to Hester Kirkbridge at Vermont, IL, ==Fulton Co-- in 1881. They have two children, Mary and Bertha. 

      Mr. Hoopes is proprietor of the dining rooms of the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad, in Galesburg, in Vermont, IL, and in Burlington, Iowa.

Hopkins, Sally A. (Booton), Chestnut Township; born in Jackson Co, Ohio, Feb. 17, 1832; educated in the common schools. Her father, Laban Booton, was born in Cabell Co, VA, Feb. 17, 1809; her mother, Catharine (Shoemaker), was born in Ohio June 6, 1812, and died Jan. 29, 1861. Her maternal grandparents were John Shoemaker and Sally (Woulfberger), the latter a native of Pennsylvania. Her paternal grandfather was Laban Booton; he was of English descent; her paternal grandmother, Nancy (Davis), was born in Wales. 

 Mrs. Hopkins taught school about seven years, and received her first certificate from Judge Sanford, of Knoxville. Dec. 7, 1865, near Hermon, IL. she was married to Thomas Hopkins; they had four children: Willie G., born Sept 3, 1866, died Mar. 18, 1870; Rosa D, born Aug 25, 1868; Mary C., born Nov. 24, 1870; and Frank L. born May 4, 1873. Rosa D. married John E. Davis.  Foxie's note: two children linked to bios this site.

      Mr. Hopkins was born in Glenmorganshire, Wales, Jan. 4, 1831; his parents, Griffith and Mary Hopkins, died in Portage Co, OH. 

      Mrs. Hopkins came to Illinois in 1836, and lived in the township of Chestnut, afterwards residing about ten years in Peoria, when she returned to Chestnut Township, where she and her husband resided until the time of his death, Aug. 23, 1895.

      Mr. Hopkins was Supervisor of Chestnut Township, Road Commissioner, Assessor five years, and School Director fifteen years. He belonged to the Odd Fellows in Hermon and Peoria, and was a member of the Grand Army of the Republic. He enlisted in Company M, Fourteenth Illinois Cavalry, and was mustered out Aug. 1865. 

      Mrs. Hopkins owns a farm of 160 acres, which she and her son are managing, on Section 4. Township of Chestnut. for more information on the Hopkins family go to Sally's web pages, this Knox site.

Hopper, Samuel H., Mine Owner and Farmer; Knox Township; born in Washington Co, IN, Nov. 16, 1835; educated in the district schools. The ancestry of the family on the paternal side is English, on the maternal side, Scotch. The paternal grandparents, Zachariah and Polly (Leatherwood) Hopper, were natives of England; the former was a soldier in the Revolutionary War. Mr. Hopper’s father, Charles Hopper, was a native of North Carolina, and his mother, Mary (Henderson) came from Kentucky. Mr. Hopper was the oldest of eleven children: Samuel H., Thomas Jefferson, Frances M., James E., Zacharia P., John W., Sarah E., Aquila, Charles B., William W., and Perry H. Charles Hopper, Sr. died in 1881, his wife died in 1885. 

      Thomas J. was a soldier in Company A, Fifty-ninth Illinois Volunteers, and was killed at Stone River, Tennessee. Frances M. married John Hester, who died in 1879. Her second marriage was with John M. Mitchell, of Arkansas; they have one son, W. Samuel. 

      Mr. Hopper was married to Elizabeth Caulkins, Aug. 19, 1863, in Knoxville; they have two children: S. Elmer and Mary O. The latter married Jesse Reynolds; they have three sons: Harold, Don and Earl. Mr. Hopper was in the Black Hawk Indian War, and Aug. 1, 1862, he enlisted in Company F, Eighty-sixth Illinois Volunteers, and was honorably discharged the latter part of 1863. In politics he is a democrat.

Housel, Oscar C., was born at Akron, Summit Co, OH., Sept. 10, 1855. His parents were Martin and Margaret (Viers) Housel. When a very young lad, he was dependent upon his own resources. His father died when he was three weeks old, and he was made an orphan by the death of his mother when he had reached his ninth year. He received his education in the public schools, after which he found employment in a match factory at Akron for two years. He then ran an engine for a year and a half and later worked as a millwright. Although too young to participate in the Civil War, his family was well represented at the front, three brothers and two brothers-in-law serving in the Union Army.

      In 1877, Mr. Housel removed from Akron to Galesburg, where he lived until 1880, when he went to Peoria. In 1887-88 he lived in Altona, Knox County, IL., where he managed a farm, and in 1889, he returned to Galesburg, and entered upon his successful career as contractor and builder. Mr. Housel has built many of the finest residences and most conspicuous public buildings in Galesburg. Among the latter may be mentioned the Marquette Building, the Dick Block, the Craig and Johnson buildings on Main Street, the Central Congregational Church, the Universalist Church, the Knox Street Congregational Church, and the remodeling of the First Methodist Episcopal Church. Nor have Mr. Housel’s labors been confined to the demands upon his skill in the town where he resides. He was the builder of the annex to the County Alms House at Knoxville, and of the annex to the State Asylum for the Deaf and Dumb at Jacksonville. At present he is engaged in the erection of a Presbyterian Church at Davenport, Iowa.

      Mr. Housel belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America, and is one of the Knights of Pythias. In 1878, he became a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he is a republican.

      June 1, 1880, Mr. Housel was married to Lenora Cummings. Her father, L. B. Cummings, was a veteran of the Mexican War, and one of the gold hunters of 1849. Upon his return from California, in 1852, he settled on a farm near Altona.

      Mr. and Mrs. Housel have three children: Ralph B., Alice Maree, and John Frederic.

Foxie's note: next two are brothers.

Housh, Alonzo Marion, Farmer and Dairyman; Abingdon; born Sept 29, 1856, in Haw Creek Township; educated in Maquon; his parents were: James O. and Eliza (Strong) Housh; his grandfather was David Housh. 

      He was married Feb. 6, 1879 at Prairie City, IL., to Ella Barlow, daughter of Samuel Barlow of Warren Co.; they have one son, Glenn Yguerra. 

      Mr. Housh was brought up on a farm, and after his marriage lived in Haw Creek Township, where he had 185 acres of excellent land. In 1893, he went to Abingdon, and engaged in the insurance and real estate business since Feb. 1898, he has been a dairyman. Mr. Housh has been a breeder of fine horses, and owned in 1856, Byerly Abdailah; he now owns Zuleka Patchen. He is a successful business man. Mr. Housh is a democrat. He is a believer in Christian Science.

Housh, Andrew Clinton, son of David and Elizabeth (Thornbrough) Housh, was born Oct. 16, 1834, near Greencastle, Putnam Co, IN. The progenitor of the Housh family settled in Virginia, where grandfather Adam Housh resided till he removed to Kentucky and located near Louisville. Farming was his vocation, and politically he was a democrat. There were born to him and his wife seven sons and four daughters: the sons were John, Andrew, Adam, George, Jacob, Thomas and David. Both Adam Housh and his wife lived to be very aged; she died in Kentucky.

      David Housh, father of Andrew C., was born in Kentucky and removed to Putnam Co, IN. He married Elizabeth, a daughter of Joseph and Rebecca (Gibson) Thornbrough of the same state. The father of Joseph Thornbrough was a Quaker; Rebecca Gibson was of Welsh descent.

      David came to Haw Creek Township, passing through the place where Maquon now stands, July 3, 1836. He was a prosperous farmer, and one of the leading men of his township. In politics he was a democrat, and held various township offices. He died at the old homestead in May 1879, at the age of 80 years. He owned at the time of his death about 2,600 acres of land. In religious belief he was a Universalist. He served in the War of 1812, though only twelve years of age, doing guard duty in one of the frontier forts in Indiana. Later he participated in many Indian skirmishes in his vicinity. He came to Illinois when Knox County was mostly a wilderness. Mrs. David Housh yet lives at the age of 89 years having been born near Greencastle, Indiana, March 1, 1810. David and Elizabeth Housh had thirteen children, seven of whom are now living: Mary, Rebecca, James O., Andrew Clinton, Elizabeth, Daniel M., and Eveline; all of them have been devoted to agricultural pursuits.

      Mr. A. C. Housh was educated in the common schools of Knox County, and was brought up on the farm. In the year of 1858, with his father and three brothers, James O., Jacob C., and Daniel M., he entered upon a mercantile career in Maquon. They also engaged in the stock business and farming on a large scale. They had a general store, the largest in Maquon. A few years later he bought out his partners and continued the mercantile business alone for several years, selling out in 1896. He opened a bank in 1884 called the “A. C. Housh Bank of Maquon,” which he has conducted to the present time. He also owns and managed about 1,500 acres of farming land in Knox County, and also owns two farms containing 320 acres in Nebraska. In politics he is a democrat. He has been Township Clerk, Commissioner of Highways, School Director, and member of the Town Council. He is a member of the Masonic Fraternity, A. F. and A. M., Lodge No 530, in Maquon.. He is liberal minded in all things, and is worthy the esteem and confidence of his fellow citizens.

      Mr. Housh was married at Knoxville, Nov. 11, 1857, to Adeline, daughter of Peter F. and Elizabeth (Fink) Ouderkirk. Mr. and Mrs. Housh have two children: Emma F. and E. La Fayette.

Howe, James R., Galesburg; born in Aurora, IL., where he was educated. He is a locomotive engineer in the employ of the Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad. He began as an apprentice in the machine shop in 1876, and in 1888 was given charge of an engine; he now has one of the best passenger runs on the road. 

      In 1888, he was married to Hattie V. Page. They have one son, Harold J. Mr. Howe has always taken an active interest in politics, having been a member of the City and County Republican Committee. In 1892, he was elected Vice President of the National Republican Clubs, and in 1898, was a delegate-at-large to the National Convention at Omaha. He is a member of the Galesburg Business Men’s Club, and the Soangetaha Club. He belongs to Vesper Lodge, No. 584, A. F. and A. M., and Chapter 46, R. A. M., Galesburg; Oriental Consistory, thirty-second degree, and A. A. O. N. M.S. of Peoria. He studied law in the office of Judge P. S. Post, and was admitted to practice in the Illinois State courts, June 7, 1899, and in the United States courts, June 27, 1899.

      Mr. L.D. Howell was educated in the common schools. 

      Feb. 17, 1876 he was married in Galesburg to Mary M., daughter of Levi and Mary Ann Stair. She was born Sept. 29, 1856 in Wayne Co, OH. They have five children: Mary Alberta, born Mar. 11, 1877; Lulu, born Aug. 25, 1880; Nora, born Aug. 16, 1887; Lorenzo Everitt, born June 3, 1893; and William J. Bryan, born Aug. 11, 1896. 

      Mr. Howell came to Peoria in 1865. He owns a farm of 205 acres (Section 27) and has 43 cattle and 11 horses. He is a member of A.F.& A.M. Lodge, No 194, Farmington; in politics he is a democrat. 

      He and his father were in the Confederate Army, Company C. Third North Carolina Volunteers. His father was in the Mexican War; and his maternal grandfather was in the War of 1812.

Hoyer, Alfred, Carriage-maker; Galesburg; born Sept 17, 1862, in Sweden, where he was educated. His parents, Andrew and Katie (Anderson) Larson, and his grandfather, Louis Larson, live in Sweden. 

      He was married in Galesburg July 26, 1888, to Tillie G., daughter of Olans and Amy Margaret (Jonesson) Ohlson, of Sweden. They have three children, Mertle Francis, Harold Alfred, and Amy Olson. 

      Mr. Hoyer came to Knox County in 1881, and settled in Galesburg, where he worked a few months for the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad Company. He then learned the trade of carriage-making and blacksmithing. 

      In 1886, he went to Omaha, Nebraska, where he remained seven months, and then returned to Galesburg, where he was again employed by the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad Company for a short time. 

      He started in business for himself July 15, 1897, and soon after entered into Partnership with John E. Holmquist, under the firm name of Hoyer and Holmquist, their business being horseshoeing, wagon and carriage work, at 162 West Main Street. Mr. Hoyer is a Congregationalist. In politics he has been a republican.

Hubbell, J. F., Farmer; Walnut Grove Township; born June 17, 1830, in Morrow County, Ohio; educated in Knox Co. His father, Manessa, and his mother, Phelina (Buck) Hubbell, were born in Seneca Co, NY. 

      Mr. Hubbell was twice married. His first marriage was with Mary Moxsey at Knoxville, March 16, 1854. His second wife, Mary Kessey, of Macomb, to whom he was married June 13, 1880. 

      Mr. Hubbell was a member of the Methodist Church. In politics he was a republican, and served for a time as Supervisor. He died June 29, 1898.

Huggins, David Brainard, born in Vermont, Aug. 31, 1824. His father, David Huggins was a farmer, and his mother’s maiden name was Cynthia Bartless.

      His father came from Vermont to Knox Co. in 1834, and settled in Knoxville, where he lived until his death in 1851. At the time of his arrival in Knoxville, only seven families had preceded him and were located there. In 1836, at the first Fourth-of-July celebration at Knoxville, his father superintended the dinner for the crowd. He was a kind-hearted and generous man, and aided much in the development of the town and county in which he lived. In his religious views he was a Congregationalist, and held the office of Deacon for a number of years. While living in Vermont, he was Justice of the Peace for twenty years, and served in the same capacity for several years in Knox Co.

      D. B. Huggins’ boyhood was passed on the farm. His opportunities for education were limited, but he availed himself of the instruction afforded in the common school and acquired therein a good, practical, business education. He was brought up a farmer and has followed the occupation of farming and stock-raising all his life. He discontinued the business in 1892 and now is retired.

      Mr. Huggins has shown himself a public spirited man. He was largely instrumental in the establishment of the street car line between Galesburg and Knoxville. He headed the subscription list with one thousand dollars, and raised most of the money required by hard personal work. Furthermore, he gave bond for ten thousand dollars, to insure its completion. The speakers, on the occasion of the opening of the road, made honorable mention of these facts, and the street car company recognized these services by placing in the hands of Mr. Huggins the first spike to be driven, plated with gold.

      Mr. Huggins has shown a disposition to aid in every good cause. For many years, he has been greatly interested in the Knox County Fair. Year after year, the general superintending of the grounds was entrusted to his care—a work in which he showed great judgment and efficiency. He made also liberal contributions, as the needs of the Fair seemed to demand.

      Mr. Huggins has not been a great traveler. He has visited several States, but has never been abroad. He went to California in 1855, by water, and was more than a month on his way. While there, he took charge of a City Hospital in San Jose.

      As a man, Mr. Huggins is quiet and unassuming, and is free from the pride of ostentation. He has lived a harmonious life, and has always been regarded as a good neighbor and a good citizen. His kindness of heart and his deeds of charity are an index of the man, and his habits of industry and perseverance will ever commend him as a worthy citizen.

      In religious faith, Mr. Huggins is a Presbyterian. Both he and his wife became members of that church in 1868, and for more than thirty years have worshipped together in that communion. Politically he is a republican, and has been a faithful worker in the party ever since its formation.

      He was married Dec. 26, 1847 to Harmony Doty, daughter of Ebenezer Doty. Her father was a soldier in the War of 1812, and her brother, Edward Doty, was one of the “forty-niners”.=="Jayhawkers"

      To Mr. and Mrs. Huggins was born, Sept. 2, 1852, one son, Frank Doty.

Hughey, Charles Wesley, Farmer; Cedar Township; born in Adams Co, OH., Dec. 1, 1828, where he was educated. His parents were Alexander and Hester (Tudor) Hughey, who came from Ohio to Abingdon, Knox Co., in the fall of 1849. The family is of Scotch and English ancestry.

      Charles W. Hughey was married to Mary E. Andrews in Cedar Township. Nine children were born to them: Bell; Ann; Mary E, deceased; Emma; Ella; James E.; Rosette; William; and Flora. 

      In religion Mr. Hughey was a Methodist. He was a republican, and had been School Director and held other local offices.

Humphrey, Aaron Gordon, Physician; Galesburg; born in Delaware, Ohio, July 19, 1832. His parents, Aaron Case and Betsey (Starr) Humphrey, were natives of Hartford, CT.; the grandparents on both sides were natives of England. He was raised on a farm in Tipton, Iowa, and attended school at Mount Carroll Seminary. He is a graduate of Hygeia Therapeutic College, NY. He has since been proprietor of a sanitarium, first at Lancaster, Ohio, then in Moline, IL, and since 1860, at Galesburg. In 1865, he conducted a sanitarium in Minneapolis. 

      Feb. 16, 1868, Dr. Humphrey was married to Lavina Swartzendruver, at Bloomfield, Iowa. They have one son, Albert S., who is prominent as a public reader and as a teacher of dramatic _expression and oratory. 

      In religion, Dr. Humphrey prefers to be known as Humanitarian. In politics he is a republican.

Humphrey, Henry W., Horse-shoer; Galesburg; born June 10, 18962, at Cardiff, Wales; educated in NY. His parents were John Humphrey of Oswestry, Wales, and Hannah (Prichard) Humphrey of Herefordshire, England. 

      Mr. Humphrey is an Episcopalian.

Hunt, Ransom C., Attorney; Galesburg; born in Burlington, Iowa, Jan. 24, 1844; educated in Iowa and Illinois. He was married to Irene Johnson May 1, 1879. They have four children: Beulah M., Albert V., Harry C., and Florence Irene. 

      Mr. Hunt’s father, John B. Hunt, was born in Illinois; his mother’s name was Mary McLove; his grandfather, John Hunt, was born in Virginia and married a Bartlett. 

      Mr. R.C. Hunt came to Bushnell, IL., with his parents in 1857,where they lived until 1865, when they moved to Galesburg. 

      Mr. Hunt attended, for a time, Lombard University, and afterwards studied law, and commenced practice in Galesburg in 1868. On the death of M.D. Cook, he was elected his successor to the office of Police Magistrate, which position he held until May 1, 1897. In 1898, he removed his office to the Holmes Building, where he continues his law practice.

Hunter, James Madison, was born Dec. 31, 1811 in what was then known as Frankleton, now Columbus, Franklin Co, OH. His parents, Joseph and Deborah (McGowan) Hunter, married and settled in Ohio, while it was yet a territory. His father was a native of Pennsylvania, but his mother was from Newfoundland, Canada. The Hunter family is of Scotch-Irish descent, and their ancestors were Protestants. Grandfather McGowan was a soldier in the Revolution.

      Judge James M. Hunter was the third of five sons, left orphans when he was but four years old. At the age of five he left the home of the uncle with whom he was then living, and entered the service of a farmer by the name of Cutler, whose land adjoined the city of Columbus.

      Judge Hunter was a self-made and self-educated man. All the educational advantages he enjoyed were those secured in the country and city schools, while he was living with Mr. Cutler. He was only 17 years old when he went into the business of transporting freight from different lake ports to Dayton and Cincinnati. In this business he continued five years, and then in 1833, sold out and rented a farm two and one-half miles from Columbus. 

      It was March 6 of this year (1833) that he married Miss Eliza Hunter, of Madison County, Ohio. Mrs. Hunter was born Oct. 12, 1817. Mr. and Mrs. Hunter remained upon their rented farm only 18 months, and then removed to Union Co, OH., where they purchased 80 acres of land and where they resided for 3 years. They then removed to Madison Co., OH., and bought a farm of 240 acres. In 1846 Mr. Hunter, with his wife and children, moved to Illinois and settled in Salem Township, where he bought 360 acres of land and began to improve it. Here he lived the remainder of his life, an active, honorable and honored citizen of the county. For 8 years he was Justice of the Peace, and was one of the last three Associate Justices of Knox County. He was known far and wide, and in the southeastern part of Knox County, was one of the best known and most representative citizens.

      Judge Hunter died on his farm Nov. 15, 1894 at nearly 83 years of age. Mrs. Hunter died Dec. 4, 1888, at the age of 76. They had six children, all of whom reached maturity: Deborah; Joseph; (I've linked Joseph to the bio, I think is his anyone knows different let me know) Charles R.; James M.; Eliza J., wife of H.C. Mann; and Mary A., wife of R.H. Harper. Bio above click on name to take you there....

      The character that Judge Hunter built was far more than financial success. It is something that will endure forever, a monument to his memory and an honor to his county. In politics he was a democrat, and it is an interesting fact, that General Andrew Jackson received his first vote for President.

Hunter, James W., Retired farmer; Cedar Township; born Aug. 23, 1851, in Clinton Co, OH.; educated in the normal schools of Martinsville and Lebanon, Oh. His parents were Charles N. and Mary C. (Bond) Hunter, born and reared in Clinton Co, Oh; his paternal grandfather, James Hunter, was a native of the same state, while his paternal grandmother, Harriet (Neal) was born in Hagerstown, Maryland. His grandfather, James Hunter, was a native of Ireland, where he was a teacher. Charles N. Hunter was a merchant and stock-raiser in Ohio, where he at one time was considered one of the wealthy men. He died in 1876, aged 46 years. Politically, he was a democrat. He was a member of the Christian Church.

      Nov. 16, 1876, at Hermon, IL. J. W. Hunter married Sarah A. Smith, a daughter of Charles Smith, a well-to-do farmer. They had two children; Charles M. and Isadora. The latter died in infancy. 

      Mr. Hunter was reared on a farm in Ohio. He began teaching school when a young man; he taught in Ohio and Indiana, and at Olney and in Knox Co, IL. In 1873 he was admitted to the Bar in Indiana, and afterwards continued his studies with ex-State Treasurer Wilson. In 1874 he came to Knox County and settled at Hermon, where he taught school for two years, when he married and began farming near Hermon. He became prominent in the democratic party of the township, and was elected Justice of the Peace. In 1887, he was elected Supervisor from Indian Point Township. In 1888, he was elected to the Legislature, and re-elected in 1890. In 1892 was nominated for member of Congress from the Tenth District and fell but a little short of election. Feb. 20, 1894, he was appointed Deputy Collector of Internal Revenues for the Fifth District of Illinois, and held the office until 1898, when he moved to Abingdon. During 1889-90, Mr. Hunter was engaged in the mercantile business at Hermon, IL.

      His wife died July 15, 1899. In religion, Mr. Hunter is a Christian.

Hunter, Joseph, Farmer; Salem Township; born Oct. 11, 1838, in Madison Co, OH. He came west with his father in 1846; and was reared on the Hunter homestead, where he now resides. 

      Feb. 16, 1860 Mr. Hunter was married in Knox County to Rebecca Webb. They had eight children: Mrs. Florence M. Cramblet, deceased; Grace G., who died at the age of 6; James M., who died at the age of 18; Joseph Edward, who married Mattie Johnson; Frank S., who married Millie Craig; Mrs. Mary E. Jobes, deceased; Mark L. and Hugh S., are teachers in Knox County public schools. Mrs. Hunter died May 4, 1883, at the age of 47. 

      Mr. Hunter is a democrat and has been School Director for 24 successive years and Assessor nine terms in a republican township. He is a member of the A. F. & A.M. fraternity, Yates City Lodge 448, also of Eureka Chapter, of Yates City, 93.

Hurd, Albert, A.M. Ph.D., son of Tyrus and Charlotte (Heck) Hurd, was born in Kemptville, Ontario, Canada, Nov. 6, 1823. His father’s ancestors came from England to Connecticut. His great-grandfather moved to Arlington, Vermont, in 1764, and about 1812, his grandfather, Phineas Hurd, moved from Vermont to Canada West, now Ontario.

      His mother’s ancestors were among the 6,000 Protestants who, near the close of the seventeenth century, fled from the Rhine Palatinate to England in consequence of the religious persecutions of Louis XIV. A number of these Palatine Tentons finally formed a settlement in Ireland, where her grandmother was born in 1734. In 1758, John Wesley visited the settlement, and many of them became Methodists; her grandmother, Barbara Ruckle, and her grandfather, Paul Heck, were among the number. They, with many other “Irish Palantines” emigrated to America, landing in NY Aug. 10, 1760. There, Barbara Heck began the organization of the first Methodist service and the first Methodist Church in the New World. Her name is first on the list, and to her is given, by the entire Methodist Church of America, the exalted honor of being their spiritual mother and founder. “Wesley Chapel”, the first church structure of the denomination in the Western Hemisphere, came from the heart and head of this devoted woman. It stood on the present site of the John Street Methodist Church, New York. The family afterwards moved to the neighborhood of Troy, NY, and finally to Canada.

      The early educational advantages of Albert Hurd were the customary ones of that period. He obtained a good English education in the common schools. He fitted for college, partly in the preparatory department of Victoria College at Coburg, Ontario, and partly at Ogendsburg Academy, NY. He matriculated at Middlebury College, Vermont, in 1846, and graduated in 1850. Subsequently he studied chemistry and the natural sciences at the Lawrence Scientific School of Harvard University under Professors Horsford and Louis Agassiz.

      Professor Hurd, whose father was a farmer, passed his youth upon the farm at home. Like many a New England boy, he worked on the farm in the summer and attended school in the winter. He was always fond of books, and when he was 17 years of age, had read thoughtfully and lovingly much of the best English poetical literature. Before reaching the age of 16, he was the teacher of a district school near his home, and for the next five years, continued that work more or less.

      For the first year after leaving college, Professor Hurd became Principal of the Vermont Literary and Scientific Institution, located at Brandon. At the end of the year, he accepted an invitation to become Tutor and Lecturer on the Natural Sciences in Knox College, Galesburg, IL. Since the fall of 1851, he has remained in this institution, pursuing the quiet and uneventful, but laborious life of a western College Professor. For three years, 1851-1854, he was Tutor and Lecturer on the Natural Sciences; for 43 years, 1854-1897, Professor of Chemistry and Natural Sciences, and from 1897 to the present time, he has held the Latin Professorship, having previously, for nearly 20 years, been the acting Professor of Latin in addition to his other duties. He says of himself, “I am not conscious of having ever deliberately chosen the profession of teaching for my life-work. I have always been of the opinion that an over-ruling Providence decided that matter for me. From boyhood, I loved books and study. The door of the teacher’s life was always open wide before me. Other doors did not invite my entrance. I merely passed through the open door and have been led along through a life of contentment and satisfaction, teaching, more or less, every year for sixty years.”

      Sixty years of earnest toil with the mind of youth! Sixty years of untiring energy and labor in erecting the temple of manhood and womanhood! Sixty years in developing the latent powers of the human soul! How full of interest, how full of thought the reflection. What joys, what hopes, what ambitions were inspired during the recital of the daily lessons. How many can look back and say, the inspiration and impulse of my life-work and life-deeds were given, when receiving instruction from this teacher of sixty years’ experience. How many can say, then was opened to me my pathway of life. Truly, sixty years, as a teacher and Professor, is a holy sacrifice on the altar of devotion. It is almost impossible, in any department of labor, to accomplish a greater life-work.

      As a teacher in the class room, Professor Hurd stands pre-eminent. He has but few equals. He is clear and logical in thought and _expression, and has a most incisive way of imparting instruction. His lessons are always well learned, and he never meddles with subjects that are hazy in mind or not well understood. He is positive and commanding, and no student can fail to see the lucidness of his teaching and illustrations.

      As a man and citizen, he has never made himself popular by his sociability. In the broad sense, he is not social, and yet, when thoroughly acquainted, he is one of the most social of men. He is especially known for his decision of character, purity of motives, and fair-mindedness in his relation with his fellow-men. He despises all shams and detests all sycophancy and demagoguism. In a word, he is acknowledged as a man of ability, of sound learning, and as one who always acts with prudence and discretion.

      Professor Hurd has always shown a commendable interest in the prosperity and welfare of this city. At the commencement of the legal existence of the Young Men’s Library Association in January, 1860, he was elected its President. After holding that office for a year, he became its Librarian and served in that capacity until April 1867, when the continued existence of the Association had become assured and it was possible to pay the Librarian a small salary.

      In religious faith and belief, Professor Hurd is a Congregationalist. On his arrival here in 1851, he became a member of that Church. He never has been identified with any of the various secret or social organizations. Politically, he is a republican, believing, in the main, in republican principles and republican doctrine. Sometimes he has voted the prohibition ticket because of his life-long and earnest opposition to the use of intoxicating drinks.

      He was married Jan. 11, 1855, to Eleanor Amelia Pennock, who died Aug. 11, 1895. To them were born two children: Harriet Sophia (McClure), wife of the founder of McClure’s Magazine, and Mary Charlotte, teacher of French in Knox College.

Hurlbutt, Dean C., Farmer, Elba Township; born in Dalton, New Hampshire, Feb. 13, 1834; educated in common schools. His father was Asa Hurlbutt of Waterford, Vermont; his mother, Mary (Jones) Hurlbutt, and his grandmother, Mary Jones, came from New Hampshire.

      He was married in Truro Township to Elizabeth Lambert. She was born in Indiana and died in 1889. Their children are: Mary A., died April 1, 1881; and Julia A., died Nov. 6, 1879, aged 19 years. Mary A. was married to Guy Davis and had one child, Roy H., who is living with his grandparents. 

      Mr. Hurlbutt has a farm of 1200 acres and a fine residence on Section 17. He is a good business manager and a model farmer. Mr. Hurlbutt is a republican, and has been Supervisor.

Inness, Whit F., Superintendent of Water Works; Galesburg; born Feb 21, 1858, in Knox Co., where he was educated. His parents were George and Ruth (Thirlwell) Inness of England. 

      Mr. Inness was married Feb. 1, 1881 at Galesburg to Jennie A. Hewitt; they have one child, J.D.

      Mr. Inness is a republican, and has represented the city of Galesburg as Alderman of Fifth Ward. He was Chairman of the Knox County Central Committee.