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HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY ,
Illinois 891
FRANK LAPHAM
Frank Lapham is the owner of one hundred and seventeen acres of land
on sections 18 and 21 of Victoria township, where he engages in
general farming and stock-raising. He is a native of Truro township,
Knox county, the eldest child born of the marriage of Edward W. and
Nettie (Mosher) Lapham. The father was born and reared in Ohio,
whence he, in his early manhood, came to Knox county with his
parents. Here he met and subsequently married Miss Mosher, a
daughter of Joseph and Mehitabel (Hubble) Mosher. After marriage
they located in Truro township on the farm now owned by John Hart.
When the call came for troops in the early days of the Civil war,
Edward W. Lapham responded by enlisting as a private in the
Fifty-fifth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and was killed at
Nashville, Tennessee. He left a widow and four children, two sons
and two daughters, those beside our subject being as follows: Ellen,
the wife of T. W. Ray; Allen L., now deceased, who is buried in the
cemetery at Victoria; and Love, the wife of G. W. Parker, who lives
in Wyoming. The mother later married E. M. Sweeney, who was born and
reared in Victoria township. They resided for a number of years in
Truro township, but he later withdrew from farming and went to
Galesburg and engaged in the insurance business. They had two
children: Dow, who is living in Wyoming; and Susie, who is a
resident of Galesburg.
Agricultural pursuits
have engaged the attention of Frank Lapham from his earliest
boyhood. Reared on the farm where he was born his early energies
were directed toward the cultivation of the fields that had been
tilled by both his father and grandfather. Here he received his
training in general farming and stock-raising and after his marriage
located on the place where he now lives. When he first came here
only about one-half of the land was under cultivation, but he
immediately set about clearing the remainder and now has it all
under cultivation. During the period of his ownership he has erected
practically all of the buildings now standing and has wrought
various other improvements. He has good barns and outbuildings and a
comfortable residence on his place, and it is well provided with all
modern implements and appliances deemed essential to the successful
pursuit of agriculture. Mr. Lapham devotes his fields to such
cereals as are best adapted to the soil and is annually rewarded
with abundant harvests, but as he makes a specialty of stock-raising
he feeds the greater part of the grain he raises. He is a capable
business man and competent agriculturist, who uses intelligence
and sagacity in the direction of his undertakings and is meeting
with more than an average degree of success.
Mr. Lapham has been greatly assisted in his endeavors by the
capable management of the household affairs by his wife, whose
maiden name was Miss Addie Ray. She is a daughter of Lorenzo and
Mary (Sweeney) Ray, and was born and reared in Victoria township,
where she has passed the greater part of her life. Her parents were
natives of Ohio, whence they came to Knox county in a wagon with an
ox team in the pioneer days. Her maternal grandfather, Miles
Sweeney, here acquired forty acres of land that he diligently
cultivated until his death from cholera. This property is now owned
by his grandson, Mrs. Lapham's youngest brother, Clarence Ray. Mr.
and Mrs. Lorenzo Ray were married in Victoria township, and here
were born their five children, in the following order: William, who
lives in Victoria township; T. W., in Truro township; a daughter,
who died at the age of four years; Addie, now Mrs. Lapham; and
Clarence, who lives north of the Lapham farm in Victoria township.
Mr. Ray was for many years engaged in the operation of eighty acres
of land in Victoria township, and there he passed away at the age of
fifty-six years. The mother had passed the seventy-second milestone
on life's journey at the time of her death. Mr. and Mrs. Lapham have
had five children, all of whom were born in this township. In order
of birth they are as follows: Edward, who died at the age of
twenty-six years and is buried in Victoria township; Cecil, who is
still at home; Ella, the wife of Fred Naslund, of Victoria township;
Leroy, who is also at home; and Verne, who died when only eighteen
months of age and is buried in the family lot in Victoria cemetery.
Ever since he began voting Mr. Lapham has been loyal to the
political principles of the republican party, the policy of which he
deems most conducive to good government. He served for several years
as a school director and as assessor for one term. Fraternally he is
identified with the Modern Woodmen of America, and he is one of the
stockholders of the Mutual Telephone Company. Mr. Lapham is one of
the estimable citizens of Victoria township, where he is widely
known and highly regarded both by reason of his business
qualifications and his high standards of life.
H.
J. BENNETT.
H. J. Bennett, who for twenty years was identified with the
commercial activities of Williamsfield, was born in Peoria county,
this state, on the 15th of January, 1865, and is a son of William J.
and Catherine (Slygh) Bennett. The father, who was a physician, was
born in England, and came to Illinois from New York city, while the
mother was a native of Virginia, whence she was brought in early
childhood to this state. Dr. Bennett located at Elmore upon his
arrival in Peoria county, and there he resided until his death,
which occurred at the age of thirty-four years. He was married twice
but his first wife only lived a short time. One son was born of this
union, William J., who is a resident of Bonanza, Colorado, where he
has extensive mining interests. To Dr. Bennett and his second wife
there were born four children: Emma, 892, who is the deceased wife
of J. P. McCauley, of Elmore; May, who married F. P. Bertschy, who
is auditor of the Woodmen of the World, of Denver, Colorado; J. S.,
who is a resident of Marinette, Wisconsin, where he engages in the
music and jewelry business; and H. J., our subject.
In the acquirement of his education H. J. Bennett attended the
common schools of his native county until he had obtained sufficient
knowledge to enable him to earn his own living, when he laid aside
his text-books and turned his attention to farming. After following
agricultural pursuits for a few years he went to Elmore, where he
established a meat market in 1886 that he operated for three years.
Disposing of this at the end of that time he came to Williams-field
and engaged in the same business until 1910. In the latter year Mr.
Bennett withdrew from commercial activities and has ever since
engaged in buying and feeding cattle and hogs.
Mr. Bennett married Miss Emma E. Freed of Peoria county, a daughter
of August Freed, and they became the parents of nine children, six
of whom are living: Paul, Elton, Maud, Harry, Gladys, and Juanita.
Those deceased are as follows: Geneva, Genevieve and Claire. The
oldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bennett, Maud, was married October
23, 1909, to Earl T. Main, the son of Charles Main and a member of
one of the most prominent families of Knox county. Mr. Main, who was
the cashier of the First State Bank of Williamsfield, was killed in
a railroad accident on the Rock Island road on March 21, 1910. One
child was born to this union. Mrs. Main is a lady of refinement and
very popular in social circles in Williamsfield, where she has a
fine home.
Fraternally Mr. Bennett is a member of the Modern Woodmen of
America, and in his political views he is a democrat, and has
several times been called to public office. He was president of the
village for four years and he has also discharged the duties of town
clerk. He met with success in the conduct of his business and has
acquired some property interests, owning one hundred and sixty acres
of land in the west. Mr. Bennett is one of the estimable citizens of
Williamsfield, where he has resided for more than twenty years, and
has many friends.
JAMES C. STEPHENSON.
James C. Stephenson carries on general farming in Copley township on
what is now the old Stephenson homestead and here he was born on the
23d of January, 1870, his parents being James and Mary Ann
(Leighton) Stephenson. His youthful experiences were those that fall
to the lot of most farm lads who divide their time between the work
of the schoolroom, the pleasures of the playground and the
development of the fields. When not busy with his textbooks his time
was given to the work of the farm and all through his life he has
remained upon the place which is still his home and has carefully
tilled his fields and developed and improved his property until it
is today one of the valuable tracts of land in his district. The
methods which he follows are at once practical and progressive and
in the cultivation of the cereals best adapted to climatic
conditions here he has won substantial success.
893
On the 1st of May, 1901, occurred the marriage of Mr. Stephenson and
Miss Clara Bell Johnson, who was born in Concord, Morgan county,
Illinois, February 9, 1871, and is a representative of one of the
pioneer families of that county, her great-grandparents being Reuben
and Sarah Johnson, who were among the first settlers and were from
Kentucky and Tennessee respectively. They located in Morgan county
before there were any churches, and religious services were often
held in Mr. Johnson's house by the Rev. Peter Cartwright and the
Rev. Ben Newman, who were circuit riders of that day, and were
brothers-in-law of Mrs. Stephenson's grandparents. Mrs. Stephenson
is a daughter of Elbert H. Johnson, whose birth occurred August 6,
1847, on what is known as the old Johnson farm in Morgan county.
There her father lived up to the time of his removal to a farm two
miles east, which he continued to cultivate for five years. He
afterward spent a similar period in Virginia, Illinois, and then
engaged in farming in the vicinity of Jacksonville but eventually
lived retired. He was a member of the Presbyterian church and his
many excellent traits of character won for him the regard and
good-will of those with whom he came in contact. In 1869 he married
Deborah Ann Leeper, who was born December 18, 1842, near Cincinnati,
Ohio. Her father, John Leeper, was a native of the north of Ireland
and came with his family in childhood to America, arriving in
Cincinnati in the early '30s. He afterward lived in Brown county,
Illinois, where he carried on farming throughout the greater part of
his life, his death occurring in 1889. He had married Margaret
Harrington, who was a daughter of John Harrington, and passed away
in 1901 at the age of eighty-seven years. The maternal grandparents
of Mrs. Johnson were Andrew and Isabelle Leeper, the former of
Scotch-Irish lineage. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Elbert H. Johnson were born
three children, the brother of Mrs. Stephenson being Joseph Howard,
now of Chicago, while her sister is Martha E., the wife of E.
Hudson, of Beardstown, Illinois. Mr. and Mrs. Stephenson have became
the parents of two children: James Glen, born June 22, 1903; and
Mary Eloise", born April 9, 1905.
Both Mr. and Mrs. Stephenson are members of the Presbyterian church
at Oneida and politically he is a republican but prefers to
concentrate his time and energies upon his business affairs rather
than to hold office. He has served, however, on the school board for
two and a half terms and is a stalwart friend of the cause of
education. In fact he is interested in all the projects and
movements which work for public good and his influence is always on
the side of advancement and improvement. He has led a busy, useful
and active life, and is justly classed among the representative
farmers and citizens of Copley township.
JOHN
MACKEY.
John Mackey, who owns and operates a valuable farm of five hundred
acres in Truro township, is one of the self-made men of Knox county.
He started out in life without either capital or influence and with
but limited education, and through the intelligent direction of his
activities has become numbered among the affluent agriculturists of
his community. 894
His birth occurred in
Jackson county, Maryland, on the 24th of October, i860, his parents
being John and Jeannette (McFadyen) Mackey, both natives of
Scotland. The father was born in Ayrshire in 1826, and when old
enough to begin working entered the mines of his native country,
being employed there until he was twenty-three. In 1849 he to0^
passage for the United States, first locating in Maryland,
continuing to follow mining there and at various other points as far
west as Wisconsin. He subsequently came to Kewanee, Illinois, and
soon thereafter settled on a farm three-fourths of a mile east of
his son John's place, which was thereafter the family home. John
Mackey met with a moderate degree of success in his agricultural
pursuits and acquired one hundred and eighty acres of land. His
death occurred in 1899 while he was visiting in Iowa, his place of
residence still being in this county; the mother passed away on the
homestead in 1903, at the age of seventy-six years. Thirteen
children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Mackey, eight of whom lived to
attain maturity, as follows: Matthew; Margaret, the wife of Albion
Curtis; Jane, who married L. Iverson; Anna, who is the wife of
William E. Willett; and John, William, David and Ezekiel.
The early education of John Mackey was limited to the advantages
afforded by the district schools in the vicinity of his home, and
while pursuing his studies he also assisted with the work of the
fields and care of the stock. Recognizing the need of broader
knowledge, he later supplemented his education by attending Lombard
College for a brief period, being at that time twenty-four years of
age. He then left the parental home and began farming for himself.
Originally he owned but a small portion of his present place, but he
applied himself so assiduously and intelligently to its cultivation
that he was able to extend the boundaries of his farm until it
embraced five hundred acres. Here he has resided ever since
beginning his independent career, and has become deeply attached to
the place because of its association with the greatest experiences
of his life. A man of practical ideas and unlimited energy, Mr.
.Mackey attributes much of his success to the fact that he has
always concentrated his energies and directed his activities toward
a definite purpose. All of the improvements on his property have
been made during the period of his ownership. He has constructed
large, commodious barns, substantial outbuildings and a comfortable
residence, and as his circumstances have permitted has added many
modern conveniences and appliances, consistent with the progressive
spirit that has characterized his undertakings. His is now one of
the most attractive and valuable properties in the township, and he
is contemplating making more extensive improvements within the near
future. He has an excellent water system and a number of other
conveniences not generally found on the farm homestead. Mr. Mackey
oversees the operation of his fields and gives his personal
supervision to everything on the farm, all of the work being done by
him and his two sons. His land is devoted to diversified farming in
connection with which he also raises stock.
For his wife and helpmate Mr. Mackey chose Miss Eva McDowell, a
native of Mercer, Mercer county, Pennsylvania, their marriage being
celebrated September 27, 1887. There were five children born to Mrs.
Mackey's parents, three sons and two daughters, all of whom are now
residents of Illinois. The mother passed away at the age of
sixty-five years and the father, who was engaged in the mercantile
business, reached the remarkable age of four score and ten. Three,
895, children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Mackey: Eldred W. and
Earl Edwin, who are assisting their father with the operation of the
farm; and Irma J., who is attending school.
Ever since granted the right of suffrage upon attaining his
majority, Mr. Mackey has given his political support to the men and
measures of the democratic party. He takes an active interest in all
township affairs and has served on the school board for twenty
years. He is held in high esteem by all who know him throughout the
county, where his success is recognized as the just reward of
intelligent and judiciously expended effort.
AUGUST SWARTZ.
A Knox county agriculturist of enterprising and progressive methods
is August Swartz, who owns two hundred and ninety acres of excellent
land in Truro township, located three miles northeast of
Williamsfield, where he has resided for the past nine years. He is a
native of this state, his birth having occurred in Wood ford county
in 1864, and a son of Henry and Caroline (Sandmyer) Swartz. His
father was born in Germany on the 21st of March, 1824, and there he
was reared and educated, continuing to make his home in his native
land until he was twenty-two years of age. Having heard wonderful
stories of the opportunities and advantages afforded ambitious young
men in the United States, he in 1846 crossed the Atlantic to the new
world. He landed in New York city, where he remained for five or six
years thereafter. At the expiration of that time he came to
Illinois, settling in Peoria, where he remained for six years,
removing to Woodford county. There he engaged in agricultural
pursuits with such excellent success that at the time of his death
he owned six hundred and forty acres of land, well improved and
under high cultivation. In Peoria, this state, on the 28th of
October, 1848, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Swartz and Miss
Sandmyer, and they became the parents of seven children: Henry, who
was born on July 13, 1849, and died in 1850 or 1851; William, whose
birth occurred on the 26th of January, 1854; George, who was born on
May 24, 1856, and died in 1905; Mary, born on the 22d of July, 1857,
the wife of John Kanive; John, who was born on the 18th of March,
i860, and died in August, 1907; Henry, whose birth occurred on the
20th of May, 1862 ; and August, born on the 7th of October, 1864.
The parents both passed away in Woodford county, the father dying at
the age of seventy-seven and the mother at seventy-three.
The education of August Swartz was obtained in the district schools
in the vicinity of his home, the period of his boyhood and youth
being very similar in every way to those of other lads reared in the
country. He early began assisting with the work of the fields and
the care of the stock and after laying aside his text-books, gave
his undivided attention to agricultural pursuits. When qualified to
begin farming on his own responsibility he operated the old home
place, which he subsequently purchased, continuing its cultivation
until 1902. In the latter year he disposed of it and came to Knox
county, purchasing his present place in Truro township, containing
two hundred and ninety acres. Dur- 896 ing the nine years of his
residence here Mr. Swartz had made many improvements in this
property. He has erected good barns and outbuildings and a
comfortable house in addition to which he has also effected various
minor changes that have greatly improved the general appearance of
the place. The greater part of his land he rents, having practically
retired from active work, but he and his wife still continue to live
on their farm. He is a man of progressive ideas and as he takes
great pride in his homestead his succeeded in making it one of the
valuable properties of the county.
Mr. Swartz was married in 1894 to Miss Minnie Lutz, who was also a
resident of Woodford county where she had been teaching for four
years previously. She is a daughter of John P. Lutz, a blacksmith by
trade, and a veteran of the Civil war. Of the marriage of Mr. and
Mrs. Swartz there has been born one son, Cecil A., whose birth
occurred September 19, 1897.
His political allegiance Mr. Swartz gives to the democratic party,
and is now and has been for the past five years serving as a member
of the board of county road commissioners, while he has been a
school director ever since locating in the county with the exception
of one year. Mr. and Mrs. Swartz are members of the Reformed church
and the Methodist Episcopal, respectively and fraternally, he
belongs to the Woodmen. Mr. Swartz is a man of upright conduct and
sound principles and during the period of his residence in Knox
county has won and retained the respect of all with whom he has had
transactions because of his. honorable methods in conducting his
dealings.
CARL AUGUST EKSTADT.
Carl August Ekstadt, who owns and operates a farm in Walnut Grove
township, Knox county, was born March 23, 1864. He is one of the
worthy representatives that Sweden has sent to aid in the
development of this rich agricultural district. His parents, Samuel
and Johanna Ekstadt, are now living in Altona. The father was born
in Smoland, Sweden, in 1834, and was the son of A. Peterson, who
followed farming throughout his entire life and died in Sweden in
1844. He married Hannah Carlson and of their family of seven
children only two are living, the brother of Samuel Ekstadt being
Charles Peterson.
Samuel Ekstadt was only ten years of age when his father died, after
which he was reared by his maternal grandfather until able to take
care of himself. His name was changed when he took out
naturalization papers. He married Johanna Carlson, who was born in
1825 and was a daughter of Carl and Martha Hickston. It was in the
year 1868 that Samuel Ekstadt came to America, making his way to
Berlin, Illinois, where he remained for several years and then
removed to Woodhull, this state, where he carried on farming for ten
years. He next established his home in Walnut Grove township, Knox
county, where he purchased a farm, which he cultivated until 1896.
He then removed to Altona, where he is now living retired at the age
of seventy-eight years. During the early period of his residence in
this state he was also employed as a laborer by the Chicago,
Burlington & Quincy Railroad. He has long been a faithful member of
the Swedish Lutheran church, of which he has served for many years,
897, as a deacon. Of the children born to him and his wife three
survive: Edward, a salesman residing in Chicago; Matilda, the wife
of T. K. Brown, of Henry county, Illinois; and Carl August.
There was no event of special importance to vary the routine of farm
life for Carl August Ekstadt in his boyhood and youth. He attended
the district schools and worked on the home farm, early becoming
familiar with all the duties and labors incident to farm life. After
he was eleven years of age he was engaged as teamster on his
father's farm for the following fifteen years and then engaged in
general farming and stock-raising on an adjoining tract, where he
has since resided.
On the 14th of February, 1889, Mr. Ekstadt was married to Miss Hulda
Louisa Faline, who was born on the 23d of January, 1869, in
Gosafall-Tuna-Soken-Kalmar Lane, Sweden, her parents being John M.
and Bertha Louisa (Swanson) Faline. To Mr. and Mrs. Ekstadt five
children have been born, all of whom are residing at home: Ida
Elvira, whose birth occurred on the 2d of December, 1889, and who is
now engaged in school teaching; Hazel Eleanora, who was born August
18, 1890; Harry Lawrence, born September 30, 1893; Carl Erwin H.,
born May 14, 1905; and Fern Linnea Irene, whose birth occurred
October 27, 1911.
In politics Mr. Ekstadt is a republican and, although he is not an
active politician he keeps abreast of the times regarding the
paramount issues before the country and is always ready with his
vote and influence to do what he can to secure the election of the
candidates of his party. He belongs to the Lutheran church and Mrs.
Ekstadt is also a member of the Ladies Missionary Society. Fie is
well known throughout the township as a good and industrious man,
enjoying the confidence and respect of his neighbors and spending
his life in honest and successful labor.
G. L.
DOUBET.
G. L. Doubet, who is now living retired on his farm two and a half
miles southeast of Williamsfield, was for many years one of the
representative agriculturists of Truro township. He was born in
Peoria county .in November, 1849, and is a son of Elinor and Harriet
(Slane) Doubet, the father a native of France and the mother of the
state of Ohio. When a lad of ten years, Elenor Doubet emigrated to
the United States with his parents, who located in the western part
of Peoria county, where he was reared to manhood. He completed the
education already begun in his native land in the district schools
in the vicinity of his home, and subsequently gave his attention to
agricultural pursuits. When old enough to adopt a vocation,
naturally he chose the one he was best qualified for and engaged in
farming. He was thrifty and industrious as well as practical and
used very good judgment in the direction of his undertakings. His
efforts were attended with success, and as his circumstances
warranted he invested in farming lands in the vicinity, becoming one
of the extensive property owners of the county. He passed away on
his homestead at the age of seventy-nine years, one of the highly
esteemed and substantial citizens, 898, of the community. Unto Mr.
and Mrs. Doubet there were born ten children, four of whom are
deceased. Our subject is the eldest of the six living, the others
being as follows: J. D., a farmer of Truro township; Eliza, the wife
of a Mr. Shoemaker, of Iowa; Isabel, who married D. Secreton, and is
living on the old home place in Peoria county; John F., who owns and
operates a farm across the road from our subject in Peoria county;
and Charles, who is on the home place. Those deceased are, one who
died in infancy, Henry, Rebecca and Delia.
The early life of G. L. Doubet was passed very much in the manner of
other country lads of that period. He attended the district schools
in the acquirement of his education, and while mastering the common
branches also assisted his father with the work of the farm. By the
time he had attained his maturity he had a very thorough knowledge
of the practical methods of agriculture and continued to follow this
vocation during the remainder of his active life. When he was
twenty-five he began farming for himself, locating on the place
where he has ever since resided in Truro township. This contains two
hundred and twenty-six and a half acres, all of which he brought
under high cultivation During the long period of his ownership he
has wrought extensive improvements in the place, including the
erection of all the buildings now standing. He is a man of practical
ideas and progressive, and as his circumstances warranted he
installed on his farm such modern conveniences and improvements as
he deemed essential for the best interests of his business. General
farming and stock-raising were his chief activities and both proved
to be very lucrative under his competent direction. Mr. Doubet has
for some years past been living practically retired, although he
still resides on his homestead, having turned over the cultivation
of his fields to his sons.
Mr. Doubet married Miss Sarah J. Cole, and they became the parents
of nine children, six of whom are living: Charles, who married Miss
Nellie Biederbeck; Jennie, the wife of P. A. Murdock; Albert, who
married Delia White; Earl; Blanche; and Una. Three are deceased; a
daughter, Effie; and two infants.
Fraternally Mr. Doubet is a member of the Knights of Pythias and the
Independent Order of Odd Fellows, while he gives his political
support to the republican party. He has always assumed his share of
the township governmental responsibilities and has served with
efficiency as assessor and collector. Mr. Doubet has resided on his
farm for thirty-seven years, and is therefore widely known in the
community, among whose residents he is held in favorable regard,
ever having conducted himself in all of the relations of life in
such a manner as to win the esteem of those with whom he had
dealings.
ALEX. CALLAHAN.
A well cultivated farm of ninety-four acres located four and a half
miles southeast of Victoria, does justice to the agricultural skill
of A. Callahan, who was born in Elba township, this county, on
the1oth of May, 1858. His parents were John and Nancy (Walker)
Callahan, pioneer settlers of Knox county, where for many years the
father was engaged in farming. He was born in Ireland,
901
where he lived until he was eighteen years of age when he emigrated
to the United States, locating in Philadelphia. There he engaged in
mercantile pursuits until 1854 when he removed to Illinois,
subsequently settling on a farm in Elba township. This property
contained eighty acres of fertile land, to the further improvement
and development of which he devoted his energies until his death at
the age of seventy-five years. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Callahan
consisted of four sons and two daughters: Matthew; John; William J.;
Alex., our subject; Jane, who became the wife of Thomas Galpin; and
Anna P.
Alex. Callahan was reared on the home farm in Elba township,
obtaining his education in the district schools. While mastering the
common branches he assisted with the work of the farm, thus
qualifying himself for an agricultural career. After leaving school
he went out west where he remained for three years. At the
expiration of that period he returned to Knox county and again
turned his attention to agricultural pursuits, which he has ever
since followed. He cultivated leased land at first, thus acquiring
sufficient capital to buy his present property, which he has now
owned for fourteen years. During that time he has made extensive
improvements on the place, including the erection of a very fine
modern farm house that he completed in 1907. Since taking up his
residence here Mr. Callahan has equipped his homestead with such
modern conveniences from time to time as his circumstances
permitted, and it is now one of the attractive as well as valuable
farms, of Victoria township.
Mr. Callahan's plans for a home of his own had their consummation in
his marriage to Miss Christina Peterson, who was born in Sweden,
whence she was brought to the United States at the age of two years.
Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Callahan, as follows:
Ada and Blanche, who are stenographers in Galesburg; Myrtle, who
married Andrew McClure; and Stella.
In matters of faith Mr. and Mrs. Callahan are members of the
Congregational church and fraternally he is identified with the
Modern Woodmen of America. In his political views Mr. Callahan is
independent, giving his support to the men and measures he deems
best qualified to subserve the interests of the majority. He leads a
very active life as is evidenced by the appearance of his fields,
which he has brought under high cultivation, his crops annually
bringing him a very satisfactory income.
JACOB HUBER.
Jacob Huber, who resides on a fine farm of two hundred and
eighty-eight acres located two and a half miles northeast of
Williamsfield, has been identified with the agricultural development
of Knox county for forty-seven years. He was born' in Berks county,
Pennsylvania, in May, 1845, and^ is a son of Benjamin and Rebecca (Burckhardt)
Huber, also natives of Berks county. There the father, who was a
blacksmith, followed his trade until the fall of 1849, when with his
wife and family he came to Illinois, locating in Peoria county,
where he passed away at the venerable age of eighty-two years. Mr.
and Mrs. Huber were the parents of nine children, five of whom are
deceased. Our subject is the
902
eldest of those living, the others being as follows: Mary, the wife
of Isaac Anderson; Elmira, who married John Hart; and Delila, now
-Mrs. Levi Felby.
Practically the entire life of Jacob Huber has been passed in
Illinois, as he was only a child of four years when he accompanied
his people on their removal from Pennsylvania to this state. Pie
obtained a common-school education in Peoria county, but early laid
aside his text-books to assist in the operation of the home farm. At
the age of twenty years he left home and came to Knox county, very
soon thereafter locating on the place he now owns. During the period
of his residence here he has extended the boundaries of his farm and
has made many improvements on it. All of the buildings now standing
on the place have been built since he became the owner, and he has
added many modern conveniences and improvements that have greatly
increased the value of the property. He has expended much care and
labor in the tilling of his fields that have been brought under high
cultivation, and annually yield abundant harvests that fully
compensate him for his painstaking efforts.
Mr. Huber has been married three times, his first union being with
Miss Catherine Armstrong, and unto them were born six children, four
sons and two daughters. He next married Carrie Pulver, and his
present wife was Mrs. Edith Messmore. One son, Harold, who is
operating his father's farm, has been born unto Mr. Huber and his
third wife. Besides his own children he reared Iva Riggins and Julia
Kimbal.
The political views of Mr. Huber are not coinciding with any of the
parties, but he votes independently for the man whom he considers
the most proficient to fill the office. Although he takes an active
interest in all township affairs he has never sought political
preferment, having given his undivided attention to the development
of his personal interests. Mr. Huber came here as a young man
practically penniless and has through his own energy and
perseverance become one of the prosperous agriculturists of Truro
township, among whose citizens he enjoys a wide and favorable
acquaintance.
J. A. TUCKER.
J. A. Tucker, who is conducting an implement business in
Williams-field in connection with which he is also operating a
harness shop, is a native of Knox county, his birth having occurred
on the old home farm in Truro township in 1850. His parents were
Vachel L. and Jane Tucker, the father a native of Ashland, Ohio,
whence he migrated in 1833 to Knox county. He acquired a tract of
land in Truro township that he settled upon, devoting the remainder
of his life to its operation, his death occurring on his farm at the
age of sixty-seven years. Of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Vachel L.
Tucker there were born nine children.
The boyhood and youth of J. A. Tucker were in every way similar to
those of other lads of the period who were reared in the country. He
attended the schools of Truro township and later the high school of
Elmwood, in the acquirement of an education. While pursuing his
studies he had to assist in the work of the fields and the care of
the stock on the home place, thus qualifying himself, 903, for
a future agricultural career. After leaving school he devoted his
entire time and attention to farming until 1893, when he came to
Williamsfield and engaged in business. Mr. Tucker met with very good
success in his agricultural pursuits and now owns a fine farm of one
hundred and sixty acres in Truro township. It is equipped with
modern improvements and appliances, while the fields have been
brought into a high state of productivity, being one of the most
attractive and valuable properties in that vicinity. Mr. Tucker's
store is well supplied with an extensive variety of farming
implements in connection with which he also operates a harness shop,
both affording him lucrative returns. He is a capable business man,
while his practical knowledge of farming implements and the needs of
the agriculturist well qualify for the vocation he is now following.
His entire attention is given to his store, his farm now being
operated by a tenant. His son, Seth, is in business with his father.
During a heavy storm this summer, Mr. Tucker had the misfortune to
have his barns struck by lightning, the buildings and their contents
being entirely destroyed.
Mr. Tucker, who is very happy in his home life, chose for his wife
Miss Lilly C. Love, of Knox county, and they have become the parents
of five children, as follows: Seth, who is in business with his
father; Leto Jane, the widow of Dr. Luther Stowell, who is now
engaged in nursing; Myrtle Alberta, the wife of James L. Cation, a
farmer south of Williamsfield; Lilly Mabel, who married John
Aldrich, of Bloomington; and Dora May, who is at home.
Mr. and Mrs. Tucker affiliate with the Methodist Episcopal church,
while he is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the
Modern Woodmen. In his political views he is a stanch republican,
and gives his unqualified support to the men and measures of that
party, believing that its policy is best adapted to subserve the
interests of the majority. A man of untiring industry, by the
intelligent direction of his activities and the concentration of his
forces Mr. Tucker has met with success in anything he has
undertaken, and is recognized as one of the affluent citizens of
Truro township.
A. H. RICE.
A highly prosperous and enterprising agriculturist of Knox county is
A. H. Rice, who owns three hundred and thirty-five acres of most
productive land in Truro township, located four miles northeast of
Williamsfield. To the further improvement and cultivation of this
property he has devoted his entire time and energy for the past
nineteen years, with most gratifying results.
Mr. Rice was born in Victoria township, this county, on the 20th of
September, 1861, and there he was reared in a manner, similar to
other farmer lads, receiving his education in the district schools.
While engaged with the mastery of the common branches, he was laving
the foundation for a future agricultural career by assisting with
the work of the fields and care of the stock. Naturally when he was
old enough to decide upon a life vocation, he chose the one to which
he felt he was best adapted, and has never had any occasion to
regret his selection as he has prospered in his undertakings, and is
now numbered among the substantial farmers of his community. He was
an ambitious and
904
energetic as well as thrifty youth, and concentrated his entire
efforts upon acquiring sufficient capital to purchase a place of his
own. His endeavors proved successful, and immediately following his
marriage in 1890 he settled on a place located in this county, that
he operated for a year. In 1892, he disposed of this property and
purchased his present homestead. Since becoming the owner, Mr. Rice
has wrought many improvements that have added greatly to the
appearance and value of the place. All of the buildings now standing
have been erected since he came here, and he has also installed many
modern conveniences and comforts, indicative of the spirit of
progress that characterizes all of his undertakings. Everything
about the place manifests close supervision and capable management,
and the careful regard for details that invariably accompanies
success in any enterprise. Mr. Rice is operating his farm in strict
accordance to the modern methods of agriculture, and as a result his
fields annually yield him abundant harvests that command the
market's highest prices. His efforts are not entirely confined to
diversified farming, much of his attention being given to the
raising of stock, which has also proven to be very remunerative. He
is not only a competent agriculturist but a business man of
practical ideas and sound judgment, who owes his success to his
tireless industry and the intelligent direction of his activities.
In 1890 Mr. Rice completed his arrangements for a home of his own by
his marriage to Miss Priscilla Yelm, a daughter of Anderson and
Priscilla (Abey) Yelm, the father a native of Sweden and the mother
of Pennsylvania. Mrs. Rice was also born in Knox county in 1868. The
family of Mr. and Mrs. Rice number six, as follows, Vesper M.,
Lester A., William F., George E., Sadie A. and Arthur. Of the seven
children born to them one died in infancy. The sons all assist their
father in the operation of the farm, thus making it possible to
almost entirely dispense with the need of hired help.
His political prerogatives Mr. Rice exercises in support of such men
and measures as are advanced by the democratic party, to the
principles of which he has been absolutely loyal ever since granted
the right of franchise. He takes an active interest in all township
affairs, but is not an aspirant to public honors or the emoluments
of office, and, therefore, has never been associated with local
governmental matters in any capacity save that of school director.
Fraternally he is a Woodman. Mr. Rice has spent his entire life in
the immediate vicinity of his present homestead, where he is well
known and highly regarded, as he has always conducted himself in all
of his relations of life, both public and private, in such a manner
as to command the respect of his community.
GEORGE E. MORGAN.
George E. Morgan, who is successfully engaged in general farming and
stock-raising three and a half miles northwest of Williamsfield, was
born in Haw Creek township, Knox county, on December 24, 1863. His
father, Peter Morgan, was a native of Ireland, his birth occurring
in 1818. There he spent the first fifteen years of his life, when he
ran away from home and went to sea, binding himself to five years'
service. At the expiration of that period he came
905
to the United States and enlisted in the navy for seven years. He
was in the service during the period of the Mexican war, at which
time he was assigned to the revenue force, and was on the boat that
carried the American minister back to Mexico after the close of
hostilities. He left the navy at the expiration of his period of
enlistment and about 1856 came to Illinois, locating in Peoria
county. Pie turned his attention to agricultural pursuits, and went
to work for Joe Lyons, who owned a farm in Millbrook township, that
county. Being industrious, he applied himself intelligently to
whatever duty was assigned him, thus soon acquired a practical
understanding of the methods of tilling the fields and caring for
the crops. It was his ambition to own a farm, and this proved an
incentive to the exercise of thrift and self-denial and little by
little he accumulated sufficient capital to begin for himself. After
his marriage in 1863 he rented some land in Haw Creek township that
he cultivated with such excellent success that at the expiration of
two years he was in a position to buy a farm in the same township.'
His entire time and attention was devoted to the further
development of this place during the remainder of his active life,
and there he passed away at the venerable age of eighty-one years.
For his wife and helpmate Mr. Morgan chose Miss Mary Batson, who was
born in Ohio and reared in Missouri. Being Union sympathizers, her
people left Missouri during the war and came to Illinois, but after
the close of hostilities returned to the south. The family of Mr.
and Mrs. Morgan numbered six, the eldest of whom is our subject, the
others being as follows: Stephen and Rosie, both of whom are
deceased ; William and Robert, who are residents of this township;
and Elizabeth, who is also deceased.
George E. Morgan was reared in his native county, acquiring his
education in the common schools in the vicinity of his father's
home. After he had mastered the common branches he laid aside his
text-books and turned his entire attention toward the operation of
the farm, with the work of which he had been assisting from early
boyhood. Agricultural pursuits have always engaged his energies and
he has met with success in his undertakings. Pie is enterprising and
practical in his methods and now owns one of the valuable farms of
Truro township. His homestead contains two hundred and ten acres of
good land that he has brought under high cultivation, and here
engages in diversified farming and' stock-raising. His efforts in
both branches of the business are meeting with substantial returns,
and he is recognized as one of the successful agriculturists and
capable business men of the township. Since locating here Mr. Morgan
has wrought extensive improvements in his place, having erected all
of the buildings now standing and he has also effected many minor
changes, that add greatly to the appearance and financial value of
the property.
Mr. Morgan's efforts have been ably assisted by his wife, whose
maiden name was Alice R. Stubbs, a native of Millbrook township,
Peoria county, and a daughter of John Stubbs, a Avell known farmer
of that section. They are the parents of two children, Melvin and
Leona. The former is now assisting his father with the operation of
the farm, and is an earnest and enterprising young man, who gives
every assurance of possessing the qualities that make for success in
any vocation.
Fraternally Mr. Morgan is an Odd Fellow, and his political
allegiance is given to the democratic party. He has always taken an
active interest in local, 906, affairs and in 1895 was elected
supervisor, serving in this capacity until 1907, while for three
years he was commissioner and he has also been a member of the
school board. Mr. Morgan is a man who discharges his official duties
with the same sense of obligation and responsibility that he
manifests in the execution of any task or business enterprise, and
is, therefore, justly entitled to the respect he is accorded in his
community.
J. EDWIN MAIN.
J. Edwin Main, who engages in general farming and stockraising in
Walnut Grove township, Knox county, and who is numbered among the
substantial agriculturists of this vicinity, was born on the 7th of
November, 1875, on the °ld Main homestead, his parents being Andrew
and Ellen (Moore) Main. The father was born December 6, 1846, in
Mothler, Ayrshire, Scotland, and the mother in Rio township, on the
13th of March, 1848. The grandparents were Peter and Jane (Ferguson)
Main, of whom the former came to America with his three children
after the death of his wife in Scotland. Arriving in Chicago, they
proceeded to Knox county and subsequently went to Minnesota for a
short residence before returning to this county, where the death of
Peter Ferguson occurred May 1, 1878, at the age of sixty-nine years.
Andrew Main, the father of our subject, was but seven years of age
on his arrival in this country and during his sojourn in Chicago at
the time of the cholera epidemic the death of his only sister
occurred. Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Main were the parents of three
children: J.. Edwin, our subject; Kate, who married Walter
D. McMaster's, a farmer of Walnut Grove township; and Clark A.,
also an agriculturist of this township. Mrs. Andrew Main is a
daughter of Lynian King and Mary S. (Woodman) Moore, natives of New
York and Massachusetts, respectively. They came west early in life
and settled in Rio township, engaging in farming pursuits until
their death.
During his boyhood days J. Edwin Main worked on his father's
farm and passed through the usual experiences which enter the life
of a country boy, engaging in the general routine of the farm during
the summer season and attending the district school during the
winter. lie assisted his father until he was twenty-five years of
age, when, ambitious to enter upon an independent career, he removed
to the farm upon which he is now residing. When he settled upon this
land it was in a more or less uncultivated state, but he gradually
succeeded in making improvements so that now it is provided with all
the equipments and conveniences of a successful farm. lie engages in
a general agricultural business, producing the various grain crops,
and also devotes attention to stock-raising, breeding excellent
standard-bred hogs. Intelligent management and close application to
these undertakings have brought him unusual success and he makes his
home today in one of the most comfortable and modernly equipped farm
residences in Walnut Grove township.
On February 14, 1900, Mr. Main wedded Miss Ida McMaster, who
was born on the 26th of August, 1879, on the McMaster homestead. Her
parents, Thomas and Elizabeth (Hawk) McMaster, who are
prominent farmers of Walnut Grove
906
907
township, were the parents of four children: George A., who married
Clara Nash; William John, who wedded Agnes McGaan; Mrs. Main; and
one deceased. The first three named are residing in Walnut Grove
township. Mrs. Main received her education in St. Mary's school of
Knoxville, Illinois, after which she remained at home until her
marriage. Mr. and Mrs. Main are the parents of two children: Harold
E., born May 17, 1901; and Everett, born April 15, 1905.
Mr. Main gives his political support to the republican party and,
although he has never sought office, his interest in the educational
development and welfare of his community is so great that he is at
present a member of the school board. Both he and Mrs. Main hold
membership in the Presbyterian church of Altona, he being one of its
trustees and his wife being a prominent member of the Ladies Social
Union. He is a man of integrity and ambition and is accounted one of
Walnut Grove township's representative citizens.
W. B. HUBER.
W. B. Huber is the owner of ninety acres of land in Truro township,
that he has been successfully operating for the past eleven years.
It is well improved and the general appearance of both the fields
and buildings on the place indicate the spirit of enterprise and
industry that characterize Mr. Huber. He was born in this township
in 1867, and is a son of Mr. and Airs. Jacob Huber, who are
mentioned at greater length elsewhere in this work.
W. B. Huber passed his boyhood and youth similarly to other farmer
lads, obtaining his education in the common schools. He early began
assisting his father with the work of fields and the care of the
stock, and after laying aside his school books he gave his entire
attention to agricultural pursuits. He remained on the home place
until he was qualified to begin farming for himself, when he
operated his mother-in-law's place for eleven years. As he is an
energetic man of practical ideas he met with success in his
undertakings and during that time acquired sufficient capital to
purchase the place where he is now living. This has undergone
extensive improvements during the period of his ownership and is now
one of the attractive appearing farms of this section. He has
erected large, substantial barns and outbuildings and a comfortable
residence, and fenced all of the fields, which are under high
cultivation. Ever since he removed here, in 1900, Air. Huber has
given his personal supervision to everything about the place, much
of the work having been performed by him. His fields are devoted to
the raising of such cereals as are best adapted to the soil, and
annually yield abundant harvests. In connection with general farming
Air. Huber also raises stock, and this has likewise proven to be
very lucrative.
For his wife Mr. Huber chose Aliss Olive Cadwell, a daughter of
James Cad-well, who is now deceased, and Elizabeth (Wolf) Cadwell.
The father came to Knox county in his boyhood and was identified
with the agricultural interests of Truro township during the entire
period of his active life. The mother is still living and now makes
her home in Williamsfield. Air. and Airs. Huber have,
908, two children:
Clyde, who is a youth of eighteen years; and Katherine Elizabeth,
who is ten.
The religious views of Mr. and Mrs. Huber coincide with the creed of
the Methodist Episcopal church, in which they hold membership, and
his political support he gives to the republican party. He has
always taken an active interest in township affairs and has served
as school trustee. Having spent his entire life in this immediate
vicinity Mr. Huber is widely known in the community, among whose
citizens he numbers many close friends, the majority of whom were
comrades of his boyhood.
AMOS O. GIBBS.
Amos O. Gibbs for more than twenty years has been engaged in general
farming and stock-raising on section 22, Victoria township,
where he owns one hundred and twenty acres of land that he has
brought under high cultivation. He was born in Lynn township, Knox
county, on the 4th of August, 1850, and is a son of the late Martin
and Mary Ann (Moak) Gibbs, Jr., the paternal grandfather likewise
having borne the name of Martin Gibbs.
Reared on his father's farm, the youthful years of Amos O. Gibbs
were not marked by either luxury or privation, but were very similar
to those of other country lads of that period. His education was
begun in his home district and completed in the public schools of
Galva, which he attended for two years. At the expiration of that
period he gave his undivided attention to agricultural pursuits,
with the expectation of making farming his life vocation. By the
time he had attained his maturity he was a skilled agriculturist and
fully capable of taking charge of a place of his own, but he
remained at home until he was married at the age of thirty-seven
years. Immediately following this event he located on the place
where he is now living, and here he and his wife have passed the
entire period of their domestic life. This was then the property of
his brother, P. H. Gibbs, but the greater part of the improvements
had been made by the preceding owner, a Mr. Dalgrin, including the
erection of the dwelling. During the period of his occupancy,
however, Mr. Gibbs has wrought many changes that have greatly added
to the appearance and value of the place. Here in connection with
his general farming he has been raising stock, using the greater
part of his grain for feed. He is an industrious man of persevering
habits and gives his personal supervision to all of the work about
his place. His fields are carefully and intelligently cultivated,
all the fences and buildings are kept well repaired, and everything
about his farm suggests thrift and prosperity.
Mr. Gibbs established a home for himself in 1887, when he married
Miss Elizabeth Johnson, who was born in Sweden, a daughter of Lewis
H. and Christina Johnson, both of whom. are now deceased. She
emigrated to America with her parents as a child of two years, and
was reared in this county, receiving her education in the district
schools of Victoria township. Her parents spent their latter years
in Knox county and are buried in Galva cemetery, Lynn township. Six
children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Gibbs, Martin Harrison, Ada,
Roy, Lewis, Carl and Irene. 911
The political views of Mr. Gibbs accord with the principles of the
republican party, for whose candidates he casts his ballot. He has
met with more than an average measure of success in his pursuits,
and is one of the stockholders in the Farmers' Elevator and their
creamery and likewise the Mutual Telephone Company; he is also
interested in two imported breeding horses. Mr. Gibbs is a capable
agriculturist and business man, whose undertakings are characterized
by intelligent direction and competent management.
ALONZO F. PADEN.
Blessed with the heritage of a sturdy stock of ancestors Alonzo F.
Paden derives from them not only his excellent constitution and the
physical attributes giving promise of the longevity for which the
family is noted, but also the intellectual and temperamental
characteristics that insure success, the ability to get on in-the
world and the power of winning friends. His birth occurred in
Gales-burg township, Knox county, July 3, 1854. The Paden family was
originally Scotch but have lived in this country for several
generations, the grandfather, Isaac Paden, being a native of
Pennsylvania. He married Celia Fish, a native of New York state, and
in 1843 moved his family to Knox county, Illinois, and settled on a
farm southwest of Galesburg. Illinois remained his home for the rest
of his life, excepting a number of years during which he lived in
Minnesota, returning from there to Henry county, where he tilled the
soil for many years. He died in Knox county at the advanced age of
ninety-five years, having been born in 1800. Alonzo F. Paden is a
son of James and Martha (Edgar) (Fuqua) Paden, the father being a
native of Crawford county, Pennsylvania, born June 16, 1827, the
mother a native of Kentucky. They were married over fifty years
during which time they were residents of Knox county. At the death
of his wife July 26, 1904, Mr. Paden withdrew from active work on
his land and came to live with his son Alonzo, dying a few years
ago. He was well known throughout the county for his splendid public
spirit and his keen interest in the welfare of his community, giving
without reserve of his time and efforts in the aid of any cause for
the general advancement and growth. Pie gave his political support
to the republicans and was called upon to serve as supervisor of the
township being a member of the board that secured the erection of
the new courthouse. His high standard of integrity won him the
confidence of his business associates among whom he was an important
factor in his capacity as director of the First National Bank of
Galesburg, while his pleasant manner and courteous bearing made him
a general favorite among all classes in the town.
Alonzo F. Paden obtained his education in this county, where he has
lived since his birth. He attended the public schools and
supplemented this by two years at Knox College, in Galesburg. When
entering upon his life's work he took up farming in which he
continued until his retirement some years ago. Through industry and
thrift and by pursuing practical methods, he made good profits which
he invested in more land and now owns not only the farm of five,
912,
hundred and twenty acres which he operated with success for many
years but also large holdings in other states. Financially he is
interested in the People's Trust Bank of Galesburg in which he is a
director.
On February 16, 1881, he was united in the bonds of wedlock to Miss
Sarah E. Eckman, a daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth (French) Eckman,
both natives of Pennsylvania, who became residents of Knox county in
the early '50s, Mr., Eckman being a farmer by occupation. Seven
children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Paden of whom four are deceased.
The others, all living at home are, Blanche, Glen Paul and Mildred
May.
Mr. Paden has always been a consistent republican in the exercise of
his right of franchise and was called to the office of supervisor of
the township, serving five years in this capacity. In his fraternal
relations he is connected with Lodge No. 894, B. P. O. E., and he
also holds membership in the Galesburg Club. Mr.' Paden is a man of
singular strength of character, of that lofty sense of honor which
admits of no compromise, and by his gracious manner has made many
warm friends who hold him in high esteem.
HIRAM RILEY KING.
Among the agriculturists of Lynn township, Knox county, who have
been numbered among the substantial farmers and representative
citizens and who achieved success and surrounded themselves with
prosperity by their own exertions and persevering efforts was Hiram
Riley King, whose birth occurred near Akron, Ohio, on the 21st of
January, 1832, and who died on the 19th of December, 1910. His
industry and enterprise, together with good management, had been the
means of enabling him to acquire a considerable acreage of excellent
land, which for many years he kept under cultivation and from which
he derived bountiful harvests.
His parents were Ambrose and Sarah (Root) King. The father, who was
born in New York state, February 22, 1798, removed to Knox county in
1853 and located near the Union schoolhouse. where he resided for
the greater part of his life. The mother's death occurred on the 2d
of December, 1839, at Shalersville, Ohio. She had five children,
one of whom survives, Homer A., of Col-ton, California. On the 1st
of September, 1840, Mr. King was married to Miss Harriet Porte0 of
Bath, Ohio, and by their union three children were born: Mrs. Sarah
E. Patty, of Riverside, California; Ambrose L., of Victoria,
Illinois; and Corwin S., deceased. The father's death occurred on
the 19th of January, 1876, when he was about seventy-eight years of
age, and his second wife died on the 20th of December, 1885.
Hiram R. King acquired his education in his native state and in the
meantime assisted his father in the duties of the farm. Upon
completing his studies he remained under the parental roof and daily
engaged in farm work until 1859. In that year he crossed the plains
with ox teams to California, although en route he stopped at Pike's
Peak. The trip required six months and he remained in the west one
year, returning home by way of the isthmus of Panama.
HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY 913
In December, 1861, he arrived in Knox county, and on the 13th of
February, 1862, was married to Miss Lydia Ann Collinson, who was
born on the 12th of August, 1837, near Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania,
but removed to Walnut Grove township, Knox county, when she was but
one year old with her parents, Simeon L. and Mary Collinson. Of the
children of her parents four survive: John C, who is residing in
Altona; Mrs. Martha McLaughlin; Mrs. James McGoon, a resident of
Altona; and Mrs. Mary E. Durham, who makes her home in Mendota,
Illinois. To Mr. and Mrs. King six children were born: Stephen A.,
of Lynn township, who is married to Isabel Crose; Susan L.,
deceased, who was the wife of Frank Riner and had one son, now
making his home with his uncle; Harriet M., at home; Simeon H.,
deceased; Roy N., in charge of home farm; and Eunice J., deceased.
After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. King settled on a farm near West
Jersey, Illinois, where they lived one year. Later they removed to a
farm in Knox county and after residing there for a year went to
California, where they remained for twelve months, Mr. King being
engaged in the dairy business. After their return to Illinois they
settled on the place where they resided until their deaths. In
addition to general farming Mr. King also engaged in stock-raising
to some extent. His farm was brought under a high state of
cultivation and provided with all the modern improvements.
In politics Mr. King was a democrat and he held membership in the
Christian church, which held its meetings in the Union schoolhouse.
By industry, perseverance and patience, together with an ambition to
succeed, he made his way step by step until he rose to a position
where he was numbered among Knox county's substantial farmers and
most highly respected citizens.
AMBROSE KING.
Though more than a third of a century has passed since Ambrose King
was called from this life, he is still remembered by many of the
older residents of Knox county as an early settler and enterprising
agriculturist whose labors were an important element in the work of
up-building and development here. He was born in the state of New
York, his natal day being February 22, 1798. The year 1853 witnessed
his arrival in Knox county, Illinois, and during practically the
remainder of his life he made his home in the vicinity of the Union
schoolhouse in Victoria township. Throughout his active business
career he devoted his time and energies to general agricultural
pursuits, winning a gratifying measure of success in his
undertakings. His demise, which occurred on the 19th of January,
1876, when he was about seventy-eight years of age, was the occasion
of deep and widespread regret, for he had gained an extensive circle
of warm friends during the long period of his residence here.
Ambrose King was twice married. By his first wife, who bore the
maiden name of Sarah Root, he had five children. Nelson H. King, the
eldest, was born near Akron, Ohio, on the 26th of January, 1828, and
passed away near Sacramento, California, in 1873. In 1853 he wedded
Miss Elizabeth Pool, by whom he had a son and daughter, the former
being now a resident of Texas and the latter of Ouray, Colorado.
Mahala, the second child of our subject, died at the age of two
years. Hiram Riley King, whose natal day was January 21, 1832, was
called to his final rest in 1910. Unto him and his wife, who bore
the maiden name of Lydia Ann Collinson, were born six children, as
follows: Stephen A., who is married to Isabel Crose and resides with
his family near Galva, Illinois; Susan L., deceased, who was the
wife of Frank Riner and had one son; Harriet M., at home; Simeon H.,
deceased; Roy N., who has charge of the home farm near Galva,
Illinois; and Eunice J., who has also passed away. Homer A. King,
the fourth child of Ambrose King, was born near, 916, Akron,
Ohio, on the 7th of December, 1833. He acquired his early education
at Upper Sandusky, Ohio, and later continued his studies in the
academy at Galesburg, Illinois, and also in Knox College, while
subsequently he went to Oberlin, Ohio, and prepared for the ministry
under President Charles G. Phinney. It was in this state that he
was ordained by the Illinois Advent Christian Conference. Pie then
held from one to twenty series of Evangelistic meetings in every New
England state and most of the northern states to the Mississippi
river, forcefully illustrating his texts by the use of over one
thousand square feet of historical, biblical and prophetical
paintings. In association with Nelson and Albert J. King he
published and sold twenty-six editions of The Beekeeper's Text Book.
As each edition comprised two thousand copies, the total number of
copies sold was fifty-two thousand. Two editions were printed in
German. Rev. King was also connected with four monthly periodicals
in New York city. In Boston, Massachusetts, he published his second
book, The Bride of His Palace. At the same time he labored
effectively and earnestly as a minister of the gospel, serving as
pastor of the Advent Christian and Baptist churches in Springfield,
Massachusetts, Mystic, Connecticut, Union Hill, New Jersey,
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Colton, California. His home is now
at the last named place. As a companion and helpmate on the journey
of life he chose Miss Mary Lee, whom he wedded in 1882. Albert J.
King, the fifth child of Ambrose King, was born on the 14th of
March, 1836, and died at San Diego, California, in 1910. Pie married
Miss Martha Southerland and became the father of two daughters and a
son.
Ambrose King lost his first wife on the 2d of December, 1839, and on
the 1st of September, 1840, was again married, his second union
being with Miss Harriet Porter, of Bath, Ohio. Unto them were born
three children, namely: Mrs. Sarah E. Patty, of Riverside,
California; Ambrose L., who resides in Victoria township, Knox
county, and has reared quite a family; and Corwin S., who recently
passed away in this county, leaving a widow and children.
JAMES W. Hunter
James W. Hunter, one of the leading and best known citizens of
Abingdon, was born in Clinton county, Ohio, on the 23d of August,
1851, his parents being Charles N. and Mary C. (Bond) Hunter,
who spent their entire lives in that county. The father, a farmer
and stock dealer, was one of the well known stockmen of that section
of the state. Pie was also prominently identified with merchandising
in his later years, conducting establishments of that character in
Blanchester, Martinsville and Cuba at different times. His demise
occurred at Martinsville in 1876, when he had attained the age of
forty-six years.
James W. Hunter was reared under the parental roof, acquiring his
education in the Martinsville public school and the Lebanon normal
school. When about twenty years of age he began teaching and
followed that profession in Ohio, Indiana and Illinois for a period
of ten years. While teaching at Frankfort, Indiana, he took up the
study of law and was admitted to the bar. Subsequently he removed to
Olney, Illinois, and continued reading law under the, 917, direction
of ex-State Treasurer Wilson. In the spring of 1874 he came to Knox
county, securing a school near Hermon, where he taught for two
years. On the 16th of November, 1876, he was united in marriage to
Miss Sarah A. Smith, of Hermon, this county, her birth having
occurred in the house^e in which the ceremony took place. Mr. Hunter
now owns the residence and also the old homestead farm of three
hundred and sixty acres, the boundaries of which he has extended by
additional purchase until at the present time it embraces four
hundred and forty acres. After his marriage he took charge of his
father-in-law's farm and by making purchases from time to time, as
his financial resources permitted, he eventually acquired possession
of the entire property. Thereon he resided until 1894, with the
exception of the years 1889 and 1890, which he spent as a merchant
in Hermon.
In 1886 he was elected to the board of supervisors of Knox county
and the following year was reelected. During this term of office he
presided over the first meeting held in the courthouse—on the event
of the dedication of the building. While serving as county
supervisor he was elected to the state legislature and resigned the
office to assume his duties as a member of the thirty-sixth general
assembly. By reelection he also became a member of the
thirty-seventh general assembly and during his second term was
prominently mentioned as a candidate for the speakership. He was
placed on all of the most important committees, including the
World's Fair committee, the appropriations committee and the
steering committee. While a member of the thirty-seventh general
assembly he was one of the one hundred and one democrats who
supported General Palmer in that noted deadlock. After having ably
represented his district for two terms Mr. Hunter returned to his
home farm and again took up general agricultural pursuits. In the
summer of 1892 he was the democratic nominee for congress from the
tenth district, making the race against General Philip Sidney Post.
Though not expecting to be elected, he reduced General Post's
majority by several thousand votes. Subsequently he made application
to Grover Cleveland for the position of revenue collector of the
fifth district of Illinois. The contestants, who were numerous,
included many able men and the fight was a most heroic one; but Mr.
Hunter received the appointment and served during a full term of
four years—three years under Cleveland and one year under McKinley.
During this period he made his home in Peoria.
In the spring of 1898, on the expiration of his term of service, Mr.
Hunter came to Abingdon, which town has since remained his place of
residence. He assisted in the organization of the First State &
Savings Bank and has since acted as vice president and also as a
director of the institution. He has assisted in the organization of
a number of other enterprises, prominent among which are the
American Sanitary Company, of which he is a member of the board of
directors; the Abingdon Seat & Tank Company and the Ideal Fence Tool
Company, of both of which he is president; and the Hermon Farmers
Grain Company, of which concern he is also the chief executive
officer.
Mr. Hunter lost his first wife in 1898 and the following year wedded
Mrs. Rosa A. Williams of Rome City, Indiana, whose demise occurred
in 1907. In 1908 he married Miss Georgia Burner, of Abingdon. Our
subject has but one living child, Charles M., who was the offspring
of his first marriage. This young man is now a senior in the State
University at Champaign, Illinois.
918
HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
Fraternally Mr. Hunter is identified with the following
organizations: Abing-don Lodge, No. 185, A. F. & A. M.; Abingdon
Lodge, No. 184, I. O. O. F.; and Achilles Lodge, K. P. Both he and
his wife are devoted and consistent members of the Christian church.
At this point it would be almost tautological to enter into any
series of statements as showing Mr. Hunter to be a man of broad
intelligence and genuine public spirit, for these have been shadowed
forth between the lines of this review. Strong in his individuality,
he never lacks the courage of his convictions but there are as
dominating elements in this individuality a lively human sympathy
and an abiding charity, which, as taken in connection with the
sterling integrity and honor of his character, have naturally gained
for him the respect and confidence of men.
HUGH
KING.
Hugh King, who is engaged in general farming and stock-raising on
one hundred and sixty acres of land in Victoria township, eighty of
which, located on section 25, he owns, was born in Victoria
township, Knox county, on the 20th of December, 1873. His parents
were Corwin and Mary King, who removed from Victoria township to
Kansas during the childhood of our subject, and-there resided until
1886, when they returned to Knox county and engaged in farming.
The education of Hugh King was obtained in the common schools of
Kansas where he resided with his parents from early childhood until
he was a youth of thirteen years. After acquiring such knowledge as
was deemed essential to enable him to pursue an agricultural career,
he laid aside his studies and gave his entire attention to the work
of the fields and care of the stock on the home place. Soon after
his marriage he located on his present farm, which was known as the
Andrew Anderson farm. Mr. King is industrious and practical in his
ideas and gives his personal supervision to all the work about his
place. He has brought his fields into a high state of productivity
and in connection with his general farming he raises horses and
hogs, and is meeting with lucrative returns from both.
Mr. King has been twice married, his first union being with Miss
Mary Anderson, now deceased, a daughter of Andrew Anderson. The lady
who now bears the name of Mrs. Hugh King was formerly Miss Emily
Sandquist. She was born and reared in Knox county, a daughter of
Andrew and Augusta (Burg) Sandquist. The father was born in Sweden
on the 20th of May, 1841, and there he was reared and educated. When
he attained the age of twenty-five years he determined to come to
the United States, believing that he would find better opportunities
for advancement here than in his native land. Upon his arrival in
this country he came directly to Illinois, locating in Henry county,
where he was foreman in a coal mine for four years. There he was
married in 1870 to Miss Burg, also a native of Sweden, whence she
immigrated when a child of ten years to America with her parents,
Andrew and Mary Charlotte Burg. They settled on a farm in Henry
county and there they both passed away and were buried in Dayton
cemetery. Soon after their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Sandquist settled
on twenty acres of land south of their present place. The father
industriously applied himself to the cultivation of this property,
extending his holdings from time
921,
to time as he was able until he had
eighty acres, that is now owned by Oscar Anderson. Later he bought
eighty acres of land on section 21, Victoria township, where he is
now living, but owing to his advanced age, he found the cultivation
of this tract to be too arduous, so sold forty acres to Lewis
Ostrum. He still owns the remainder and there he and his wife now
make their home. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Sandquist is' as
follows: William, who is a stock-dealer in Victoria; Esther, the
wife of Eldon Hammond of Victoria township; Emily, who married Hugh
King of Victoria township; Hazel, who is keeping house for her
brother at Victoria; Frances, who is clerk for a coal company at
Galesburg; and Edna, who is still in school. In connection with
general farming, Mr. Sandquist engages in stock-raising feeding all
of the grain he raises. He is a republican in his political views
and served for nine years as school director and road commissioner
for three. Mr. and Mrs. King have two children: Francis Willard and
Hiram Andrew.
Both Mr. and Mrs. King are members of the Swedish Methodist
Episcopal church, in the work of which they take an active interest,
Mr. King having been treasurer of the Sunday school for the past
year. Fraternally he is affiliated with the Modern Woodmen of
America and in politics he is a republican. He was a school director
for three years and now he is a member of the board of trustees. In
addition to his property interests, Mr. King is a stockholder in the
Mutual Telephone Company, of which he has been president for two
years, and is connected with other local enterprises. He is
energetic and progressive and is constantly increasing the value of
his homestead by the addition of various modern conveniences and
improvements, and now has one of the best equipped farms in the
community, where he has erected a very comfortable and attractive
country residence.
FRED
G. COLE.
Fred G. Cole, who is farming on an eighty-acre tract, located two
and a half miles south of Williamsfield, was born in Peoria county,
Illinois, on the 8th of August, 1863, and is a son of William F. and
Mary A\nn (Cutter) Cole. His father was born in Pittsburg,
Pennsylvania, on the 18th of July, 1818, while his parents were
emigrants to the United States from Yorkshire, England. He was
reared on a farm in the vicinity of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, and in
his early manhood came to Illinois, settling in Peoria county in
1844. There he was married on the 16th of April, 1846, to Miss
Cutter, who was born near Ashland, Richland county, Ohio, on July
29, 1829. She accompanied her parents on their removal to Peoria
county in 1833, and there she passed the remainder of her life. Mr.
and Mrs. Cole began their domestic life in Brimfield township,
Peoria county, but in 1854 they removed to Millbrook township, where
he acquired one hundred and twenty acres of land that he cultivated
until his death on the 23d'of December, 1883. The mother passed away
on the 15th of March, 1894. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Cole numbered
thirteen: John, a veteran of the Civil war, who is engaged in the
practice of medicine at Williamsfield ; one. who died in infancy;
William H., who is farming in the vicinity, 922,
of Joplin, Missouri; Isaac Frank, who is a resident of this county;
Charles, who lives near Iola, Allen county, Kansas; Sarah, who
married G. L. Doubet; Lucy, the wife of George Nelson, of Elmwood;
-Minnie, who died at the age of thirteen years; Lemuel, who is
farming in Canada; Marge, who passed away on the nth of May, 1903,
the wife of Samuel M. Parker; Fred G., our subject; Job, who is a
resident of Williamsfield; and Newton J., a rural mail carrier, who
is living a half mile south of Williamsfield.
Reared on the farm where he was born, Fred G. Cole obtained his
education in the schools of French Grove, Peoria county, and while
mastering the common branches he also assisted with the work of the
farm. After leaving school he gave his undivided attention to
farming, first on the old homestead and later elsewhere in Peoria
county until 1885. In the latter year he went to Kansas, where he
remained for five years, engaging in agricultural pursuits, but in
1890 he returned to Knox county and settled on his father-in-law's
farm, which he operated for two years. At the expiration of that
time he removed to his mother's place, the old homestead, where he
had been reared, and cultivated it for a similar period. In 1895, he
bought from Harry Nelson the property where he now resides, and has
ever since made this his home. His energies are devoted to general
farming and stock-raising in both of which he is meeting with good
returns.
In 1885, Mr. Cole was united in marriage to Miss Etta M. Tucker, a
daughter of L. V. Tucker, and they became the parents of one
daughter, Mabel, who was born in 1890 and died on the 15th of
November, 1904. In matters politic Mr. Cole is a republican, but he
does not participate in local affairs in pursuit of public office.
His time and energies are engaged to good advantage as is manifested
by the attractive appearance of his farm and the well tilled fields
that annually yield good harvests.
PHILIP H. GIBBS.
Among the native residents of Victoria township who still remain
within its borders is Philip H. Gibbs, the owner of one hundred and
sixty acres of excellent land on section 27. Pie was born in
Victoria, April 3, 1852, the son of Martin and Mary Ann (Moak)
Gibbs, the father a native of New Jersey and the mother of the state
of New York. The grandfather, Martin Gibbs. who was born in England
and married there to a Miss Beck, came to the United States,
settling in New Jersey, where he owned an entire section of land
which he later sold at twenty-five cents per acre and came to Knox
county, Illinois, locating in Lynn township, where he purchased one
hundred and sixty acres of land for which he paid about a dollar or
a dollar and a quarter per acre. It is the old homestead in Lynn
township and is now occupied by Richard Gibbs. In the family of
Martin Gibbs, Sr., were five children: Joseph, Martin and Jonathan,
all of whom were born in New Jersey; and two daughters who were born
in Lynn township, Knox county. The father, Martin Gibbs, received
his education in an old log schoolhouse of Lynn township and after
his school days remained at home, working on the farm until his
marriage to Miss Mary, 923, Ann Moak, who was a native of New
York state. Subsequently Mr. and Mrs. Gibbs removed to Victoria
township, where they settled on the farm now owned by Owen Conway
and where they resided the rest of their lives except for two years
that were spent in Kansas. He was a farmer and stock-raiser and a
very successful business man. Mr. Gibbs was a republican in politics
and held many of the township offices. He died at the age of
fifty-seven years and his wife passed away at the age of fifty-six,
and they are both buried in Victoria township. In their family were
seven sons: Amos, who now resides in Victoria; Philip H., of this
review; Jonathan and Joseph, both of Victoria township; Christopher,
of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; George, of Victoria township; and
Nicholas, of Tolono, Illinois.
Philip H. Gibbs received his education in Victoria township and
after his1 school days began farming there but later removed to Lynn
township, where he resided for two years. Subsequently he returned
to Victoria township and purchased of James Patty the farm on which
he now resides. He engages in general farming and makes a specialty
of raising a high grade of blooded cattle, hogs and horses. He is a
very successful business man, is a stockholder in the Farmers
Elevator of Victoria and owns an interest in the Victoria Creamery.
Mr. Gibbs wedded Miss Ida Wade, a native of Lynn township and a
daughter of William and Mary Wade, of Virginia, who later repaired
to Knox county, Illinois. Mr. and Mrs. Gibbs have become the parents
of seven children: Hattie, the deceased wife of Jesse Mcllravey;
Dollie, who is the wife of Roy Sopher, of Victoria; Lottie, who is
now Mrs. August Anderson, of Farwell, Texas; Mary, who is the wife
of John Scott, of Victoria township; Clifford, who married Mabel
Norburg and resides in Victoria township; Lansing, who is at home;
and Fern, the wife of Charles Sopher, of Victoria.
Mr. Gibbs is a republican in politics and is very much interested in
local party issues, having served for eight years as constable of
Victoria township. He has given much time to the cause of .education
and has been school director for twelve years. He is a man of high
business principles and his devotion to the public welfare has made
him a valued citizen and given him a creditable place in the regard
of his fellowmen.
A.
P. CARLSON.
A. P. Carlson, who is now living retired in Williamsfield, was for
thirty-three years prominently identified with the agricultural
interests of Victoria township. He is a native of Sweden, his birth
having occurred June 20, 1829, and a son of Jonas Anderson, who
passed his entire life in Sweden.
Agricultural pursuits have always engaged the attention of A. P.
Carlson, who spent the first twenty-seven years of his life in the
land of his birth. He received a common-school education and then
turned his attention to farming, following this vocation in Sweden
until he had attained the age of twenty-seven years. In 1856, he
emigrated to the United States, locating in Knox county on the farm
his son is now operating in Victoria township. He devoted his entire
time and attention to the further improvement and cultivation of
this, 924, place for thirty-three years. His unceasing effort
and the intelligent direction of his activities brought him the
usual reward, and he ultimately became known as one of the capable
and prosperous agriculturists of the community. He was a man of
practical ideas, and the plowing, sowing and harvesting of his
fields was conducted under his personal supervision. In 1889 he
withdrew from active life and went to Galva, where he resided for
twenty years, coming from there to Williamsfield in 1909, and here
he has ever since made his home. He has disposed of all of his
farming interests now, and is living retired, having attained the
venerable age of eighty-two years.
For his wife Mr. Carlson chose Miss Malinda Larson, who was born in
Norway, whence she emigrated to the United States at the age of ten
years, coming directly to Knox county. Four children were born to
Mr. and Mrs. Carlson, as follows: W. C, who is living on the old
homestead in Victoria township; Annie, who is deceased; Emma, who
married George Brown of Washington, D. C.; and Gordon S., who is a
resident of Ohio.
In matters of faith Mr. and Mrs. Carlson are Methodists, and his
political views accord with those of the republican party, for whose
candidates he has cast his ballot ever since granted the right of
franchise through naturalization. Through the long period of his
residence in this country, Mr. Carlson has met with the misfortunes
and disappointments that fall to the lot of the average person, but
on the whole his efforts have been well rewarded and he has never
had occasion to regret the transference of his allegiance, as he has
a competence that enables him to spend the latter years of his life
in the ease and comfort that are the. just heritage of age.
J. H.
NELSON.
J. H. Nelson, who is now serving his third term as road commissioner
of Victoria township, was born in northern Sweden, April 12, 1865,
the son °f Hanson and Christiana Nelson. The father died in his home
country but the mother came with her family to America and settled
in Illinois, southwest of Victoria, in Copley township, where she
reared and educated her children. In her family were four children:
J. H., of this review; C. F., who was born March 14, 1867; Matilda,
who was born March 11, 1869, and is now Mrs. Wiley; and Sophia, who
was born January 25, 1873, and is now Mrs. Flynn, of Grand Junction,
Colorado.
J. H. Nelson received his early education in Sweden and came with
his mother to America, where, being the eldest child, he helped to
support the rest of the family. He resided in Copley township until
1884, when he went west, seeing the country and farming in different
sections. He was convinced, however, that Illinois offered him
better inducements as a home, so he returned, residing one year in
Copley township and then, in 1898, settling on the farm where he now
resides. It consists of two hundred and eighty-five acres and is
owned by C. S. Clark. Mr. Nelson is engaged in general farming and
makes a specialty of raising hogs, cattle and horses.
HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY 925
In 1903 Mr. Nelson was united in marriage to Miss Matilda Johnson, a
native of Knox county, Illinois, and a daughter of Lewis Johnson.
Mr. and Mrs. Nelson have become the parents of two children, Roland
J. and Earl W. Mr. Nelson has been a lifelong republican and his
convictions are strong in the principles of this party. He served
for tw7o consecutive terms as road commissioner of Victoria
township, during which time he was also treasurer of the board of
road supervisors. For three years he was out of office and now is
serving a third term. Mr. Nelson is not only industrious and
enterprising but is also a man of high moral character and is highly
esteemed both as a farmer and business man throughout the township.
FRANCIS HURLBUT.
Francis Hurlbut, who is living retired on his farm six miles
northwest of Williamsfield, was born in New Hampshire on June 22,
1837, and is a son of Albia and Laura (Osgood) Hurlbut. The father,
who was a physician, was also a native of New Hampshire, his birth
there occurring in 1796. He continued to make that state his home
until 1840 when with his wife and family he came to Illinois,
locating on the farm where our subject now resides. Here he passed
the remainder of his days, his death occurring at the age of
sixty-four years. Eight children were born unto Mr. and Mrs.
Hurlbut, of whom the four eldest, Hubbard, Edmund, Nathaniel and
Laura, and the youngest, Charles, are all deceased. Those living
are: Fred, who is the fifth in order of birth; Susan; and Francis.
Francis Hurlbut was only a child of three years when he accompanied
his parents on their removal from New Hampshire to Illinois and was
reared on the farm where he is now living, obtaining his education
in the district schools of the vicinity. In common with the majority
of pioneer farmer lads he early began to assist with the plowing,
seeding and harvesting, as well as with the care of the stock, being
thoroughly trained in the practical methods of agriculture under the
capable supervision of his father. His duties were increased with
the passing years in accordance with the development of his strength
and sense of responsibility and by the time he had attained his
maturity he was a skilled agriculturist. On August 1, 1862, he put
beyond him all other considerations to follow his country's call for
men in the great strife between the north and south and enlisted as
private in Company K, Eighty-third Regiment, Illinois Volunteers.
The rendezvous was at Monmouth, Illinois, hence they were ordered
south, landing first at Fort Henry, then at Fort Donelson, where he
took part in the second battle at that place. May 6, 1863, he was
discharged and ordered home on account of disability, his lungs
being affected by the trying climate. He returned to the old
homestead, where he has resided seventy-one years with the exception
of the term of enlistment. It is the only home he has ever known and
is endeared to him by the associations from his childhood to the
present. The entire period of his active life was devoted to the
further improvement of this place, in the cultivation of which his
two sons are now engaged. The fields have been brought under high
cultivation, the improvements are all up-to-date and substantial and
it is numbered among the attractive and valuable properties of the
community. 926
For his wife and helpmate on the journey of life, Mr. Hurlbut chose
Miss Martha Wallack, who passed away April 10, 1911, aged sixty-six,
being born in Pennsylvania, September 13, 1844.
Seven children were born unto Mr. and Mrs. Hurlbut, four of whom are
deceased, namely: Frank, Nettie and Mary,' who are the three eldest;
and John, who is the fifth in order of birth. A daughter and two
sons are living: Blanche S., who married Lester Sherman; Bert,
unmarried; and Fred, who wedded Rilla Tucker. Both are engaged in
the operation of their father's farm.
HISTORY & GENEALOGY OF KNOX COUNTY
In politics Mr. Hurlbut has always been a stanch republican, and
during his early years served as road commissioner in this township.
He was also elected constable, but refused to qualify for the
office. He is one of those who have lived through the great
formative period of the state's development, witnessing the
primitive conditions of pioneer life give way to those of a newer
civilization, as the railroad has superseded the stage coach and the
telephone and telegraph the mounted messenger.
JAMES M. McMASTER.
James M. McMaster, who since March, 1906, has resided on his farm of
one hundred and sixty acres, on section 14 of Victoria township, was
born in Walnut Grove township, Knox county, August 8, 1867, the son
of David S. and Susan E. (Multer) McMaster. The father now resides
on his farm in Copley township, where the family has lived for
several years. The mother, who was a member of the Oneida
Presbyterian church, died at the age of sixty-five years and is
buried in Oneida cemetery. In their family were six sons and one
daughter, of whom one son and the daughter are now deceased.
James M. McMaster received his early education in the common schools
in Copley township and later attended the Oneida high school, after
which he remained with his father, helping to operate the home place
until he was twenty-seven years of age. At that time he began
farming on his own account, spending one year in Copley township on
a farm near Oneida, subsequent to which he moved to Victoria, where
he resided until he came to his present home. Pie purchased what was
known as the Vaughn farm, which contained all the present buildings,
in September, 1905, and moved on it in March of the following year.
He engages in general farming, selling yearly a great deal of grain,
and also raises quite a large number of hogs and horses.
On the 2d of July, 1894, Mr. McMaster was united in marriage to Miss
Jennie Reynolds, who was born in Victoria, November 1, 1868, and is
the daughter of Captain G. W. Reynolds. She received her education
in the public schools of Victoria and in Knox College at Galesburg.
Mr. and Mrs. McMaster have become the parents of two children:
Eselwyn, who was born October 15, 1896, and is attending high school
in Galesburg, belonging to the class of 1913; and Susan, born April
15, 1901, who is a student in the common schools in Victoria
township. In politics Mr. McMaster votes with the republican party,
and fraternally he is identified with Oneida Lodge, No. 337, A. F. &
A. M. He gives his support to all measures which tend to advance the
welfare of the community and is especially interested in the cause
of education, having rendered excellent service in the capacity of
school director in Victoria township.
927
WILLIAM D. CRAIG.
William D. Craig, the owner of a fine farm of one hundred and sixty
acres on section 15, Victoria township, is one of the representative
stockmen of the state. A native of Knox county, his birth occurred
on a farm in Copley township on the 28th of February, 1862, his
parents being William and Isabelle (Martin) Craig. They were born,
reared and married in Scotland, whence they emigrated during the
early years of their domestic life to the United States. William
Craig engaged in coal mining in his native land and during the first
period of his residence in this country, but he subsequently turned
his attention to agricultural pursuits, in which he met with a
gratifying degree of success. He farmed in Copley township for a
time, but later came to Victoria, where he acquired extensive and
valuable holdings. Thrifty and energetic, he applied himself
tirelessly to whatever he undertook, directing his activities with
clear judgment and intelligence. At the time of his death he owned
the farm now belonging to G. L. Hedstrom and three hundred and
twenty acres of land on section 15, where he was living. One-half of
the latter is now the property of his son William D. Mr. Craig
passed away on his homestead at the age of sixty-three years, but
the mother was seventy-three at the time of her death, which
occurred at the home of her sister, Mrs. Margaret Webster, of Stark
county, Illinois. Both parents are buried in the cemetery at
Victoria. They were members of the Methodist Episcopal church and
the father was affiliated with the Masonic lodge at Altona. He was a
stanch republican in his political views and was several times
called to public office, having served as supervisor and school
director in his township. Twelve children were born to Mr. and Mrs.
Craig, nine of whom lived to attain maturity, as follows: Agnes;
Belle; Margaret; Mary, who is deceased; James; William D., our
subject; Mattie; Joseph, who is deceased; and Jennie.
William D. Craig was reared on the farm where he now resides in
Victoria township, obtaining his education in the common schools. In
common with the majority of country lads he early began to assist
with the work of the fields and care of the stock, and after laying
aside his text-books his entire attention was given to agricultural
pursuits. After the death of his father he purchased the interest of
the other heirs in one-half of the old homestead, and here he has
ever since resided. During the period of his ownership he has
wrought many improvements in the place, including the erection of
all of the buildings now standing. He has always taken great pride
in his property and has constructed large, commodious barns,
substantial outbuildings and a comfortable farm house. As his
circumstances have warranted, from time to time he has installed
various modern comforts and appliances and now owns one of the,
928,
best equipped and most highly improved farms in the community. His
fields are devoted to such cereals as are best adapted to the soil,
and annually yield him abundant harvests, the greater portion of
which he sells. Of recent years, however, Mr. Craig has practically
given up the cultivation of his land, the greater portion of which
he is renting for one-half of the crops, and gives his entire
attention to the breeding and raising of stock. He raises horses and
cattle to some extent but makes a specialty of raising thoroughbred
Chester White hogs. They are a very pure breed and he has twice been
awarded the first prize on his exhibit at the state fair at
Springfield, and has won both the first and second prizes at the
local county fair. This year, 1911, he raised ninety of these hogs,
all of which will command a high price for breeding purposes. Mr.
Craig has been very successful in both farming and stock-raising and
in addition to his fine country property is the owner of a nice
residence in Victoria, that commands the highest rental of any
dwelling house in the town.
In January, 1892, Mr. Craig was united in marriage to Miss Emma
Larson, who was born and reared in Victoria township, a daughter of
Peter S. and Katherine Larson. The father is now deceased, but the
mother is still living and continues to make her home in Victoria
township. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Craig, as
follows: Jennie, Dewey and Eva.
Mr. Craig attends the Methodist Episcopal church, toward the support
of which he liberally contributes, and Mrs. Craig is a member of the
Swedish Methodist Episcopal church of Victoria. His fraternal
relations are confined to his membership in the Modern Woodmen of
America, and in politics he is a republican. He takes an active
interest in all local affairs and at the present time is discharging
the duties of school director and trustee. Mr. Craig is one of the
progressive and enterprising agriculturists of Victoria township,
where he is held in high esteem both by reason, of his excellent
business qualities and his many fine personal attributes.
JACOB E. MORGAN.
Jacob E. Morgan is a well known farmer of Lynn township, having
spent his entire life in this locality, his birth having occurred on
the old Morgan homestead August 2, 1867. He traces his ancestry back
to Edward Morgan, who married Margaret Rittenhouse, and their son
Morgan Morgan married Ann Roberts, a daughter of John Roberts, who
fought for American independence in the Revolutionary war. Benjamin
Morgan, a son of the latter couple and the grandfather of our
subject, married Tacy Stroud in 1800. Among their children was John
Rittenhouse Morgan, the father of our subject, who was born in
Montgomery county, Pennsylvania, April 5, 1809. He passed through
the experiences of pioneer life in Ohio and later in Indiana, from
which state he came to Illinois. He first married Rachel Bicknell
and after her death wedded her sister Susan Bicknell, who was born
at Chestnut Hill, Pennsylvania, in 1826. Her father, George
Bicknell, who was a mechanic by trade, settled in Indiana at an
early day and in 1851 brought his family to Knox county, Illinois,
entering land in Lynn township. After his wife's death he took up
his abode in, 931,
La Fayette, this state, where he passed away in 1866, at the age of
sixty-four years. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Susan Moore,
died in 1851, at the age of fifty-seven years. In their family were
six children: Rachel and Sarah, both deceased; Mary, who is living
with a daughter at the age of eighty-eight years; George and Jacob,
both deceased; and Robert P., a resident of Alliance, Nebraska.
After losing his first wife Mr. Bicknell married Catherine Hagar,
who was the widow of Peter Hagar. The Bicknell family, of which Mrs.
John R. Morgan was a representative, was an old one of Pennsylvania,
representatives of the name coming from England and settling in
Philadelphia prior to the Revolutionary war. Her grandfather,
Charles Bicknell, ran a stage from Philadelphia to Baltimore and on
his way home contracted yellow fever, which caused his death when he
was thirty-two years of age. His son, the father of Mrs. Morgan,
became a soldier of the war of 1812 at the age of seventeen years.
He was reared by his foster father, who had been drafted and he took
his place in the army, serving until honorably discharged. For his
services he received a land patent, which he located in Walnut Grove
township, Knox county. His daughter Mrs. John R. Morgan had but
little opportunity to secure an education. She was twelve years of
age when her parents removed from Pennsylvania to Indiana and in
1847 she became the wife of John R. Morgan. They became pioneer
residents of Brunertown, Indiana, where the grandfather took up land
and built a cabin, living there two years before he made the journey
by team and wagon to Illinois, traveling by way of Peoria to
Centerville. Subsequently they lived in Knox county, settling on
what has since been known as the Morgan homestead. They first lived
in a deserted cabin until the present residence was built in 1852.
There they made their home until the father was called to his final
rest. The mother is now living with her daughter and is one of the
honored pioneer women of this part of the state. When she became a
resident of Knox county her neighbors were the Swedish colony at
Bishop Hill and there was also a family by the name of Fraker at
Fraker's Grove. Joseph Simeon and Jonathan Gibbs and the Collinson
family likewise lived in the northern part of the county. Peoria was
the nearest market. Unto Mr. and Mrs. John R. Morgan were born eight
children, of whom six are now living. George B., a resident of Fort
Scott, Kansas, married Alice Robinson and has eight children. Lydia
Jane is the wife of George Spidle, of Schuyler, Nebraska, and they
have three children. Mary Ellen is the wife of Thomas C. Heaton,
living on the old homestead, and they have four children. Charles
E., of Columbus, Nebraska, married Lida Munsie and has six children.
Morris J., living at Ainsworth, Nebraska, wedded Mary Wagner and has
ten children. Jacob E. is the youngest of the family.
The last named pursued his education in the public schools to the
age of fourteen years and during the remaining seven years of his
minority worked with his father on the old home farm. He afterward
engaged in cultivating the home place on his own account for four
years and on the expiration of that period came to his present farm
in Lynn townshiD. where he has since carried on general agricultural
pursuits and stock-raising. He has a well developed property, the
fields responding readily to the care and labor which he bestows
noon them, and in his barns and pastures are found good grades of
stock. He is likewise interested in the Farmers Elevator of Galva
and in the Cooperative Bank of that place, and is an enterprising,
progressive business man whose judgment is sound and whose labors
are resultant. 932
Jacob E. Morgan was united in marriage to Miss Sarah J. Collinson,
who was born in Walnut Grove township, January 16, 1872, and is a
daughter of Thomas W. and Sarah F. (Brooks) Collinson. Mr. and Mrs,
Morgan became parents of two children: Eugene, born September 1,
1890; and Ethel, born April 13, 1892.
The family are well known and have an extensive circle of friends in
this part of the county. The parents are members of the Baptist
church of Galva and Mr. Morgan belongs also to the Modern Woodmen
Camp of that place. In politics he is a republican, active in
support of the party. He was elected a member of the board of
trustees of Lynn township and served for three terms, and his
connection with the school board covers altogether nine years. He
stands for progress and advancement at all times, whether in
business or in public affairs, and he has a wide and favorable
acquaintance in this county where his entire life has been passed.
CHARLES SPENCER, Sr.
On October 21, 1911, it was seventy-one years since Charles Spencer,
Sr., the oldest settler in Truro township, in point of years of
continuous residence, first located here. During the greater part of
that period he was engaged in agricultural pursuits, but he is now
living retired in Williamsfield, enjoying the ease and comfort that
is the just heritage of his long years of industry and thrift. He
was born in Erie county, Pennsylvania, on the 4th of May, 1836, and
is a son of J. N. and Maria (Steaver) Spencer. The father was a
native of Maine, his birth having there occurred on the 22d of
December, 1810, while the mother was born in Pennsylvania on
December 16, 1810. • They were mar-' ried in Pennsylvania and there
they spent the early years of their domestic life, but in 1840 they
came to Illinois. On the 21st of October of that year they located
in Truro township and in 1843 settled on one hundred and twenty
acres of land on section 10, that township, that the father secured
from the government, his deeds bearing the signature of James K.
Polk. The first house erected for the family was a log house and was
one of the oldest residences in the township and probably in the
county. This farm, which has been in possession of the Spencer
family for over seventy years, is now being operated by our
subject's son-in-law, Edward F. Mosher. It was here on the 28th of
June, 1856, that the father passed away, but the mother survived
until March 8, 1888.
Charles Spencer was a child of four years when he accompanied his
people on their removal to Knox county, and here he has ever since
made his home. When old enough to begin his education he was sent to
the little log schoolhonse in the vicinity of his home, and there he
pursued the common branches. The country was very sparsely settled
at that period and the primitive conditions that exist in all
frontier settlements prevailed here. The methods of instruction were
as crude as the building, and the pupils acquired little more than
a, 933,
practical understanding of the "three R's." While attending school
he assisted his father with the farm work, thus qualifying himself
to become self-dependent at a very early age. When he was twenty his
father passed away, and the management of the farm very largely
devolved upon him from that time. He diligently applied himself to
the operation of the fields and the raising of stock, and ultimately
purchased the property, which he still owns. He continuously devoted
himself to the further improvement and cultivation of his farm until
1907, when he withdrew from active work and retired to
Williamsfield, where he continues to reside. His land is well
improved and under high cultivation and is numbered among the
valuable properties of the township. The appearance of his fields
and the abundant harvests annually gathered there from manifested
the practical ideas followed in the direction of their cultivation,
as well as his careful supervision. *
On the 28th of October, 1858, was solemnized the marriage of Mr.
Spencer and Miss Rosina Doty, who was born in Ohio, where she
continued to make her home until 1853, when she accompanied her
people on their removal to Illinois. Of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs.
Spencer there have been born seven children. Mary, who is the eldest
of the family, married Oliver Cad well, who died on December 27,
1910, and by him she had five sons, four of whom are living; and
three daughters. Nathaniel, who is engaged in farming on section 10,
Truro township, married Carrie Edley. Frank Edward died aged seven
years. Deborah married Lincoln Huber, a farmer of this township, and
they have eleven children. Emma J. married Edward F. Mosher, who is
operating the old Spencer homestead, and they have had seven
children, two of whom are deceased. Rose married Otto Gross, who is
a resident of Stark county, and they have three children. Charles,
who is living in Peoria county, married Iva King and they have seven
children.
His political support Mr. Spencer has always given to the democratic
party, and while residing on the farm he served as school director
and road commissioner. Through the long period of his residence in
the county, Mr. Spencer has witnessed many most interesting changes
with the development of the natural resources and the introduction
of modern commercial and industrial methods. The prairies of half a
century ago have been converted into highly improved and most
productive farms, while the villages and settlements have grown into
bustling cities and thriving towns.
OLIVER O. CADWELL.
With the passing away of Oliver O. Cadwell on the 10th of December,
1910, Truro township lost one of her native sons and highly
estimable citizens. He had been successfully identified with the
commercial activities of the county for over thirty years, and was
known as one of the capable business men of the township. His birth
occurred in Truro township in 1847, and he was a son of George
Cadwell, who was a native of Pennsylvania. The father came from the
Keystone state to Illinois in 1842, locating in Knox county, where
for many years he was engaged in farming.
934
In the acquirement of his education Oliver O. Cadwell attended the
district schools and later those of Kewanee. When old enough to
begin his business career he laid aside his text-books and took a
position in a store. He continued to clerk until he had attained the
age of thirty-one years, when he engaged in business for himself in
Truro township. Possessing an unusual aptitude for successful
management and keen foresight he made a success of this undertaking,
and from then until his death was identified with the commercial
life of the county. He carried a good assortment of general
merchandise, that he offered at reasonable prices, and this together
with his gracious and accommodating manner enabled him to build up a
large patronage. As the years passed he enlarged his business and
acquired property interests, owning a fine farm of forty acres in
Truro township, with good improvements.
Mr. Cadwell married Miss Mary M. Spencer and they became the parents
of eight children. Thomas, who is operating a blacksmith shop on the
Cadwell farm, married Bessie Loman and they have one child, Harley.
Amos, who was the second in order of birth, died. Sally married
Clarence Robinson of Williamsfield and they have three children,
Bernice, Walter and Irene. Del-bert is living at home with his
mother and operating the store. Climena married Oscar Smith of
Williamsfield and they have one child, Glenn. Charles, Ruth and
Clyde, the three youngest members of the family, are all living at
home.
In the public life of the township Mr. Cadwell always exerted
considerable influence, owing to his comprehensive grasp of local
conditions and keen insight into all political matters. His
political support was given to the republican party and for many
years he was treasurer of the township and he also served as school
director. There was general regret and deep mourning when he passed
away, not only in his immediate family and friends, but among all
who had known -him in either a social or business way, as he was a
man of many fine qualities and rare traits of character that won him
the regard of all with whom he came in contact.
C.
J. CARLSON.
C. J. Carlson, a prosperous stockman and agriculturist of Victoria
township, owns four hundred acres of land located on section 15. He
was born in Smaland, Sweden, on the 5th of December, 1853. The
parents always resided in the land of their birth, and there the
mother passed away in 1894 and the father in 1897. They were both
members of the Lutheran church.
Agricultural pursuits have always engaged the attention of C. J.
Carlson, who was reared and educated in his native land, where he
passed the first twenty-two years of his life. Having decided that
it was impossible for him to realize his ambitions in his own
country in 1875 ne t°°k passage for the United States, coming
directly to Knox county. Upon his arrival here he first located in
the vicinity of Galesburg, where he worked out by the month as a
farm hand for two years. At the expiration of that period he came to
Victoria township, continuing in the same occupation for three
years. He was subsequently married and located on the place where he
now lives. During the long period of his ownership, Mr. Carlson has
wrought many changes in the farm that have added greatly to its
appearance as well as value. He has erected a number of new
buildings and remodeled the old and has also installed various
modern appliances and conveniences, making his one of the best
equipped farms in the community. His fields have been brought to a
high state of productivity and now annually yield abundant harvests
that amply reward him for the labor expended in their tilling. In
connection with general farming he raises stock of a good grade, and
is now and has been for the past two years sole owner of a
thoroughbred Norman stallion, Vanity Fair. As he has always been a
hard working, enterprising man, who has used good judgment and
intelligence in the direction of his undertakings, Mr. Carlson has
prospered and is known as one of the substantial and highly capable
farmers of the county. 935
Mr. Carlson completed his arrangements for a home upon his marriage
to Miss Anna Louisa Tunberg, who is also a native of Sweden and a
daughter of Andrew Anderson. Eight children have been born to them
as follows: Esther Cordelia, the wife of Victor Crantz, of Victoria,
by whom she has had two children, Carl and Paul; Clarence A., who is
unmarried and living in Chicago ; Anna Marie, at home; Carl August,
now living on his father's farm, who married Grace Sornberger and
has two children, Doris and Charles; and Roy, Beda, Charles and
Forrest, all of whom are at home.
The family attend the Swedish Methodist Episcopal church at
Victoria, in which the parents hold membership, and Mr. Carlson and
four of his sons belong to the Modern Woodmen of America. When first
granted the right of franchise he gave his support to the men and
measures of the greenback party, but later became a democrat. He has
always assumed his share of the township governmental duties and has
been assessor of his township. Although he has met with the various
disappointments and hardships that usually fall to the lot of
everyone in a strange country, Mr. Carlson has never had reason to
regret the transference of his allegiance to the United States. He
has applied himself closely and for many years worked unceasingly
and practiced the most rigid economy, but he has prospered and now
owns one of the valuable properties of Victoria township.
S. W.
MOSHER.
S. W. Mosher, a well known agriculturist of Victoria township, was
born on the place where he is now residing on the 15th of March,
1853. His father, Allen Mosher, was a native of the state of New
York, whence he removed in his early manhood to Ohio. From there he
came to Illinois with the family of Eli Johnson, whose daughter Mary
Ann he married after the family settled in Knox county. They were
among the early pioneers of this section and the old house they
occupied when they first came is still standing. Agricultural
pursuits always engaged the attention of Allen Mosher, who devoted
the remainder of his life to the further improvement of his farm,
and there passed away at the age of forty-seven years. Nine children
were born unto Mr. and Mrs. Mosher, all of whom are now deceased
with the exception of our subject and one other son, Charles.
936
The educational advantages of S. W. Mosher were confined to the
district schools in the vicinity of his home, and while there
engaged in mastering the common branches he assisted in the work of
the farm. When he laid aside his text-books he had a good
understanding of the practical methods of agriculture, and
thereafter gave his undivided attention to the work of the fields.
His entire life has been spent on his present farm, which is
endeared to him by the associations of childhood and youth, as well
as those of his manhood. He has one hundred and thirty-four acres of
land, all under high cultivation. His fields are annually planted in
the cereals to which the soil is best adapted, and under his capable
care and supervision yield abundant harvests, the quality of which
is fully equal to the quantity. In connection with general farming
Mr. Mosher breeds and raises cattle of a good grade, and thus also
realizes good returns. He has effected extensive improvements in the
place during the period of his ownership, having erected all of the
buildings now standing, in addition to which he has from time to
time added various other conveniences, consistent with the
progressive spirit that characterizes his undertakings. The place is
well kept up and cared for, everything about it manifesting the
capable management and the thrift that invariably accompany
prosperity.
In 1889 Mr. Mosher was united in marriage to Miss Anna Peterson, a
daughter of Daniel Peterson,' and a native of Sweden, whence she was
brought to the United States as a child of seven years.
His political allegiance Mr. Mosher accords to such men and measures
as he deems best qualified to subserve the highest interests of the
community, irrespective of party affiliation. As he has always lived
on his farm, which is located six and a half miles northwest of
Williamsfield, he is well known to the citizens of that entire
community, who accord him the esteem and respect merited by his many
substantial qualities, that have well withstood the crucial test of
the passing years.
G.
W. ELLIOTT.
One of Knox county's patriotic sons, who gave his services in
defense of the LTnion on the battlefields of the south, was G. W.
Elliott, for many years successfully identified with the farming
interests of the county, but now living retired in Williamsfield.
His birth occurred on his father's farm on the 18th of October,
1842, his parents being Thomas and Hannah (Reese) Elliott, the
former a native of Ohio and the latter of Virginia. They were
married in Ohio, but soon thereafter crossed the prairies to
Illinois, being among the early pioneers of Knox county. In 1836
they located on a farm in Persifer township, that he operated for
twenty years, when disposing of it he removed to Victoria township.
There he acquired one hundred and sixty acres of land and
industriously applied himself to its further cultivation until 1868.
Selling his homestead he removed with his wife and family to
Missouri, where he bought eighty acres of land, that he continued to
operate until his death. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Elliott numbered
fourteen, six of whom are living: George W., our subject; and
Samantha, Sarah, Elizabeth, Hannah and Thomas.
937
The boyhood and youth of G. W. Elliott were spent on the farm where
he was born and in Persifer township, his education being pursued in
the district schools. Pioneer conditions prevailed throughout the
country at that period, and there were but limited opportunities for
social enjoyment outside of the family, as the settlers were all
busily engaged in striving to establish homes, and place their land
under cultivation. In the work of the farm he early began to assist
his father, assuming many of the tasks that were really a man's work
when little more than a boy. When he attained his majority he
enlisted in Company D, Sixty-Ninth Illinois Volunteer Infantry and
went to the battlefields of the south. Upon receiving his discharge
he returned to Knox county and purchased forty acres of land in
Victoria township. He was an energetic, enterprising young man and
his well directed efforts met with a gratifying degree of
prosperity, so that as time passed he was able to increase his
possessions until he owned two hundred and twenty acres of fine
land. As his circumstances warranted with the passing years he
improved his farm by the addition of many modern conveniences and
appliances; indicative of the progressive methods he pursued in all
of his undertakings. Good barns and outbuildings as well as a
comfortable residence were erected on his farm, where he has spent
the greater part of his life.
For his wife Mr. Elliott chose Miss Albina Mosher, who passed away
on July 24, 1906. Mrs. Elliott was a daughter of Seneca and Nancy
(Buck) Mosher, well known among the early residents of Knox county.
Of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Elliott there were born six
children, five of whom are living, as follows: James F., Emma, Susan
A., Hannah and John. George, the fifth in order of birth, is
deceased.
A stalwart republican, Mr. Elliott has ever given his political
support to the men and measures of that party, considering that
their policy is best adapted to protect the interests of the
majority. In his early years he took an active interest in all
township affairs and served as constable, school director and
path-master. In both his public and private life, Mr. Elliott has
ever manifested the steadfast purpose, upright conduct and
incorruptible integrity, consistent with the high principles he
advocates in all transactions between man and man.
OLE
ANDERSON.
Ole Anderson, an old settler of Sparta township, passed away
December 1, 1900. He was a native of Christiansand, Norway, born
February 18, 1820. In 1849 he emigrated to America and came to the
Swedish settlement at Bishop Hill, Henry county, Illinois. He was a
poor man and for three years worked by the month as a farm hand. In
1852 he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of raw prairie land in
Sparta township and that remained his home until his death. His
widow still resides on the place. She was Miss Betsey Anderson, a
native of Sweden, born May 6, 1839. By her marriage to Ole Anderson,
which was celebrated on the 7th of July, 1856, she had eleven
children, as follows: Harriett, the wife of E. A. Werteen, of
Galesburg, Illinois; A. O., an agriculturist of Sparta township;
Albert, who is a resident of Oklahoma; Annie, now Mrs. Volk, of
Sparta township; Jennie, the wife of Scott McKibbin, of Copley
township; Christ, living in Sparta township; Sophia, the wife of
Leonard Webber, of Wataga, Illinois; William, who makes his home in
Sparta township; Henry, of Appleton, Illinois; and Emma and Arthur,
both at home with their mother.938
Mr. Anderson was a very successful man and at the time of his death
owned twelve hundred acres of land in Knox county and sixteen
sections of land in Texas. He was a member of the Methodist church
and gave his political allegiance to the republican party.
JOSIAH HAMILTON.
Josiah Hamilton, who died in Galesburg, November 23, 1911, resided
within the borders of Knox county for more than half a century and
for years was actively successfully identified with its agricultural
and mercantile interests. He was long numbered among the prominent
citizens of the community. His birth occurred in Venango county,
Pennsylvania, on the 23rd of January, 1829, his parents being
Richard and Sarah (Reynolds) Hamilton, the former a native of the
Keystone state and the latter of Birmingham, England. They were
married in Pennsylvania and there spent the remainder of their
lives, passing away in the faith of the Presbyterian church. Richard
Hamilton, whose demise occurred in 1844, was a democrat in politics
and ably served in the capacity of justice of the peace. Their
children were thirteen in number, namely, James, William, Hugh,
Edward, John, Josiah, Celina, Louisa, Mary, Lavina, Lida, Cynthia
and Emeline, all now deceased.
Josiah Hamilton acquired his education in the schools of his native
state. At the age of seventeen he sought to impart his knowledge to
others by teaching in the country schools, which he continued to do
for a number of years, during the winter months, following
agriculture in the summer time. In the spring of 1854, he with a
cousin, Walker Hamilton, made an extensive trip through Illinois and
Iowa, spending the season in these two states, his cousin returning
in the fall, while he remained in Knox county and taught the winter
school in a log school house which stood about six miles east of
Galesburg, on what has since been known as the William Reynolds
farm, returning to his native state in the spring to cultivate a
small farm of his own near Cherry Tree, Pennsylvania, which he had
been able to purchase through industry and economy. In 1857, he
returned to Knox county, Illinois, making his home with Jacob
Sipherd, east of Galesburg, farming rented land during the summer
and teaching school in the winter. On March 25, 1858, he was wedded
at Peoria, Illinois, by Rev. Robert Johnson, to Miss Isabella N.
Davidson, daughter of George and Mary Davidson, of Cumberland
county, Pennsylvania. A son, William Davidson, was born unto them
and is still living in Galesburg.
941
HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY, Illinois
The first year of his married life was spent on a farm south of
Knoxville and in the city of Knoxville. The spring of 1859 he moved
on the Ralph Spooner farm northeast of Galesburg. During the same
year he sold his farm in Pennsylvania and purchased a farm in Knox
county, three and one-half miles northeast of Knoxville, where he
continued to reside until the spring of 1883, when he disposed of
the farm and took up his abode in Galesburg. In January, 1875, he
was instrumental in the organization of The Galesburg Knox County
Farmers Mutual Fire and Lightning Insurance Company, being one of
the incorporates and holding the office of secretary thirty-one
years. In January, 1897, he assisted in organizing The Galesburg
District Mutual Wind Storm Insurance Company, comprising nine
counties, and served as secretary for thirteen years.
In March, 1883, he purchased the Taylor residence on East Main
street, in Galesburg, which was his home the remainder of his life.
He embarked in the mercantile business in the spring of 1883, buying
out the firm of Dore & Ryan on East Main street, near the corner of
Cherry, where for six years he conducted a grocery store. After
disposing of the store in 1889, he gave all his time and energy as
secretary of the farmers insurance companies until his mature years
compelled him to retire from active life.
The wife and mother passed away February 28, 1893, and on the 26th
of September, 1899, Mr Hamilton was again married, his second union
being with Mrs. Mary E. Nation, the widow of Vickery Nation, and a
daughter of Fleming F. and Rebecca (Bridgeman) Denton, of Wataga,
Illinois.
In politics Mr. Hamilton was a republican, loyally supporting the
men and measures of that party. He served as a deacon in the
Presbyterian church, of which his wife is also a devoted and
consistent member. He had passed the eighty-second milestone on this
earthly pilgrimage when called away and his well ordered life
brought him not only a substantial competence but also the regard
and esteem of an extensive circle of friends.
JONATHAN GIBBS.
General farming and stock-raising have always engaged the energies
of Jonathan Gibbs, who owns two hundred and seventy-six acres of
highly cultivated and well improved land on section 16, Victoria
township. He was born in the township where he is now living on the
4th of October, 1854, his parents being Martin and Mary Ann (Moak)
Gibbs. The father was born and reared in New Jersey, whence he
removed to Illinois in his early manhood, locating on land on Walnut
Creek in Lynn township, that he cultivated until his marriage.
Subsequent to this event he removed to Victoria township, where he
acquired one hundred and twenty acres of land that was also located
on the creek. He energetically applied himself to the further
improvements and cultivation of this place until his death at the
age of fifty-nine years. The mother was fifty-eight when she passed
away and was laid to rest in the Victoria cemetery as was also the
father. The old homestead is now the property of Owen Couley. -Mr.
and Mrs. Gibbs became the parents of seven sons and one daughter,
and five of the sons are still living. The father was one of the
public, 942, spirited, enterprising men of the community at
that period and gave his political support to the republican party.
Jonathan Gibbs was reared in Victoria township and pursued his
education in its district schools. After he had mastered the common
branches he laid aside his text-books and gave his entire time and
attention to assisting with the work of the home farm. He was an
ambitious young man of practical ideas and diligent habits, who
applied himself intelligently to anything he undertook. After his
marriage he located on a farm a mile and a half southeast of his
present place, residing there until he purchased the farm where he
now lives, at that time the property of Jonathan Huble. It was well
improved when Mr. Gibbs took possession but during the period of his
ownership he has made innumerable changes, all of which have tended
to improve and add to the value of the property. He has large
commodious barns, good outbuildings and a comfortable residence,
which are kept well in repair and present an appearance of thrift
and prosperity. Here Mr. Gibbs is successfully engaged in general
farming and stock-raising, evidencing in both pursuits the
enterprise and sagacity that have characterized him from boyhood. He
is now recognized as one of the substantial and competent
agriculturists of the county, whose success is clue to his
persistent and intelligently directed efforts.
For his wife and helpmate Mr. Gibbs chose Miss Elizabeth Craver, who
was born and reared in Lynn township and is a daughter of David and
Elizabeth Craver, both of whom passed their latter years on their,
farm in Lynn township. Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs.
Gibbs. Stella, the eldest, became the wife of L. Stewart, of Copley
township, by whom she has had one child, Lucille. Martin, who is
operating a farm in Victoria township, a mile north of his father's
place, married Mary Milroy, a daughter of Nat Milroy, and they have
two sons, Dale and Dean. Clarence, who is the next in order of
birth, is living at home. Glenn, who is also living on the home
farm, married Edna Milroy.
Fraternally Mr. Gibbs is affiliated with the Modern Woodmen of
America, and his political allegiance he gives to the republican
party, but he has never been an office seeker. He is one of the
highly regarded citizens of the community, where he is widely known,
having passed the entire period of his life in the vicinity of his
present home. Mr. Gibbs possesses many most estimable qualities that
have been thoroughly tested during the long period of his residence
in Victoria township, and never found wanting. He has high standards
of citizenship, is loyal to his friends and true to every trust
reposed in him, while his integrity is known to be incorruptible.
JOHN M. YOUNG.
John M. Young, for the past three years assessor of Victoria
township, resides on section 26, where he rents one hundred and
twenty acres of land that he has been cultivating for the past seven
years. He was born in Victoria township on the 2d of May, 1869, and
is a son of Robert and Martha (Dennis) Young, both natives of Ohio.
The father left the Buckeye state at the age of four years, coming
to Illinois, where he was reared and educated. Upon attaining his
manhood he engaged in agricultural pursuits, acquiring one hundred
and sixty,943, acres of land in Victoria township, that is
now in a high state of productivity. Ten children were born to Mr.
and Mrs. Young, six of whom are residents of Knox county, and all
are living with the exception of one.
The entire life of John M. Young has been spent in Knox county with
the exception of six years when he lived in Kansas. He attended
school in district No. yi of this township, and after completing the
common branches he engaged in farming, and has ever since been
identified with this vocation. For the past seven years he has been
engaged in general farming and stock-raising on the place where he
now lives and has met with a good degree of success.
For his wife Mr. Young chose Miss May Suydam, a native of Victoria
township and a daughter of Abraham and Lucinda Suydam, and they have
become the parents of five children: Edna, Lynn, Edward, Clyde and
Ila.
Ever since granted the right of franchise upon attaining his
majority, Mr. Young has given his political support to the men and
measures of the democratic party, considering their policy best
adapted to subserve the interests of the majority. He takes an
active and helpful interest in township affairs and has efficiently
discharged the duties of assessor for three years, while for six he
has been a director of the school he attended during his boyhood.
Mr. Young is one of the well known residents of Victoria township,
where his family have resided for more than a half century, during
which time they have contributed their quota toward promoting its
agricultural development.
WILLIAM McGAAN.
No history of Galesburg and Knox county would be complete without
reference to William McGaan, now the oldest resident of this county,
having passed the ninety-fifth milestone on life's journey. He was
born in Croftfoot parish, in Ayrshire, Scotland, in 1817, and for
some years has lived retired. His father, James McGaan, was a farmer
by occupation and died at the age of eighty-two years, while his
wife, who bore the maiden name of Jane Hunter, passed away at the
age of sixty-six years. She was a daughter of James Hunter. The
greatgrandfather of William McGaan in the paternal line was a
miller—the oldest miller in the family.
William McGaan when a boy of eleven years, being the oldest of the
family, became the main support of his father during the harvest
seasons. In Scotland farm lands were divided into mounts of fourteen
feet in order to form a drain. Harvesting was done by cutting the
grain with a scythe and William McGaan acted as forecutter, going
ahead of the others and doing what was called shearing the grain. At
that day two pounds were paid for harvest work to the men, while the
women received a pound and a half, or the equivalent of about seven
and a half dollars. When fifteen years of age William McGaan entered
the service of a large farmer, contracting to remain nine years, his
wages being six pounds or about thirty dollars per year and board.
He received but one pair of shoes, which were supposed to last him
an entire year. When his term of service had expired he entered the
employ of a cousin as a trader, buying and selling, 944,
grain for six years He was married at the age of twenty-eight and
afterward engaged in buying and shipping potatoes, which were sent
to Glasgow.
Mr. McGaan was united in marriage to Agnes Andrews, a daughter of
James and Grace (Drennan) Andrews. She was a widow at the time of
her marriage to Mr. McGaan and had one child, a son, who afterward
served as steward on a merchant vessel during the Civil war and was
lost at sea. Mrs. McGaan inherited a small mercantile establishment
from her first husband but she sold, this a year later. William
McGaan was forty years of age when he came with his family to the
new world, the voyage across the Atlantic consuming sixteen days. He
left his family in Scotland and made his way to Altona, Illinois,
and soon afterward the family arrived, but through a mistake were
sent to Alton, instead of Altona. For a year Mr. McGaan worked with
relatives in Copley township, thus supporting his family, which then
consisted of wife and two sons, James and William. He also has a
daughter, Mrs. Grace Austin. The father is now the only survivor of
a family of six children, of whom one died in infancy. His two
sisters have also passed away and one of his brothers left for
Australia at the time when he came to America and died in that
country.
At the age of twenty years William McGaan had managed to save from
his meager earnings the sum of fifteen pounds. He arrived in America
with only twenty sovereigns, but he was industrious and energetic
and improved every opportunity of providing a comfortable living for
his family. He also made for himself a creditable name in Knox
county by reason of his honorable business dealing and
straightforward methods. He is now living with his son Hugh McGaan
at the advanced age of ninety-five years and is the oldest resident
of Knox county. He has long been a member of the Presbyterian church
and through his entire life has been faithful to its teachings.
HUGH McGAAN.
Hugh McGaan, who is a resident farmer of Walnut Grove township, was
born in Copley township, this county, January 13, 1858. After
attending the public schools he engaged in farming on the old
homestead until his marriage and he now lives on the old McGaan
farm, devoting his attention to the cultivation of the fields and to
stock-raising, both branches of his business proving profitable.
On the 12th of November, 1885, Mr. McGaan was united in marriage to
Miss Lettie Arnold, who was born July 2, 1859, and is a daughter of
E. H. Arnold, now a retired carpenter of Galesburg who has reached
the age of eighty-four years. He was born in the state of New York
and in 1864 came to Knox county, settling in Galesburg, where he
always followed carpentering. He married Sarah Davis, who died in
1870. She was a daughter of Hull and Emeline (Merriam) Davis, the
former a native of Delaware county. New York, and the latter of
Harpers-field, that state. In the family of Mr. and Mrs. Arnold were
four children, but only two are now living: Mrs. McGaan and her
sister Emma, who is the widow of Dudley Overstreet, of Lincoln,
Nebraska. After graduating from the high school of this city Mrs.
McGaan engaged in teaching in Galesburg for six years. By her
marriage she has become the mother of seven children: Agnes, who is
now, 945, the wife of William McMaster, of Walnut Grove township,
and has two children, Thomas and Evelyn; Sarah, a graduate of the
Altona high school; Grace, the wife of Ellsworth Heck, of Bardolph,
Illinois; William, at home; Susan who is attending the Altona high
school; and Roy and Emory, both at home.
The parents are faithful and active members of the Presbyterian
church of Altona and Mr. McGaan is a republican in politics. He has
been particularly active in support of educational interests,
serving for twenty-six years, or since 1886, as a member of the
school board. He believes in progress and improvement along all
lines which are of vital significance to the community and his
influence has been a potent element for good.
REUBEN COX.
Reuben Cox, an agriculturist of Walnut Grove township, Knox county,
was born January 20, 1844, in Somersetshire, England, his parents
being James and Emma (Pittard) Cox. He is a grandson of Joseph and
Sarah (Davis) Cox, who came to America with their son James and
settled in Knox county, Illinois, where Joseph Cox died in 1878 at
the age of one hundred years and his wife in 1857 at the age of
seventy-two. James Cox, whose birth occurred January 8, 1816,
arrived in America in 1846, and located in Sparta township, this
county. He later purchased forty acres of land in Ontario township,
on which place he resided for six years. Subsequently he acquired
eighty acres of valuable farming land near Oneida, which he
cultivated for some time before purchasing a quarter of a section in
Sparta township, which is the old Cox homestead. Later he removed to
Oneida, where he lived retired until his death, which occurred in
1897 when he was about eighty-two years of age. His wife was born
October 7, 1817, in Somersetshire, England, and was the daughter of
James and Martha Pittard, also natives of England. Her death
occurred September 24, 1884. Mr. and Mrs. James Cox were the parents
of seven children, two of whom survive: Mary M., a teacher residing
in San Francisco, California; and Reuben, the subject of this
sketch.
Until he was nine years of age Reuben Cox attended the district
school, but at that early age made his start in farming which he has
followed throughout his active career. At first he plowed corn on
the home farm and later assisted in all the general work upon his
father's farm. He has never regretted his choice of work because he
has met with unusual success, and since his marriage has been
residing upon his present place, which is one of the most highly
cultivated tracts in the township. In addition to general farming he
also carries on stock-raising to a large extent.
In 1865 Mr. Cox married Emma Pitney, a native of Somersetshire,
England, and a daughter of William and Anna Pitney. Her parents who
were born August' 29, 1810, and April 29, 1810, respectively, came
to America in 1845 anc* went directly to Albany, New York, where Mr.
Pitney accepted employment as a mason, a trade he had learned in his
native land. Subsequently they removed tc Chicago, where the family
remained for seven years and then went to Rockford, Illinois, where
the father died December 18, 1880, and the mother ten years later.
Mrs. Cox's paternal grandfather, John Pitney, was prominently known
as a most
947 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
successful gardener. Mr. and Mrs. Cox have become the parents of two
children: Wallace W., whose birth occurred in 1867, and who is a
carpenter living in Gales-burg; and Asel A., who was born in 1874
and is residing at home.
Mr. Cox gives his political support to the prohibition party and is
an ardent advocate of the temperance cause. He has never sought
office but has done all in his power to interest others in the cause
to which he devotes so much time. Both Mr. and Mrs. Cox hold
membership in the Methodist church of Altona, and she is an active
worker in the Ladies Aid Society. Being one of the pioneers of his
township Mr. Cox has been a witness to the greater part of its
development and has done his share in improving the soil which is
the county's greatest resource. During his long residence there he
has always interested himself in all measures pertaining to the
welfare of the community and has won for himself a circle of friends
almost coextensive with the circle of his acquaintances.
GEORGE WHITED.
Prominent among the successful farmers and substantial citizens of
Knox county is George Whited, who is the owner of one hundred and
sixty acres of valuable and productive land at Rapatee and one
hundred and seven and a half acres located on the west township
line, his home being on section 34, Maquon township. He was born on
section 28 of this same locality, on October 30, 1862, his parents
being John Striker and Charlotte (Adams) Whited. The birth of John
S. Whited occurred in Somerset county, New Jersey, March 16, 1832,
and the Whited family came in 1853 from New Jersey to Fulton county,
Illinois, when John Whited was a young man of twenty-one. Here he
located on the present farm, which was owned by Uncle Stephen
Ramsay. He tilled the soil and improved his land and buildings
during the remaining years of his life, passing away in Hancock,
Pottawattamie county, Iowa, May 1, 1906, at the age of seventy-four
years. Mrs. John Whited was a daughter of Andrew Adams, an old
settler emigrating in his youth from County Down, Ireland, settling
in the east, whence the family removed in 1853, coming from Rome,
New York, to Knox county. Mr. and Mrs. John S. Whited were the
parents of one son, George Whited, and one daughter, Lotta, who is
living in Fulton county, Illinois, and is the wife of J. C. Nooval,
a son of Oliver Nooval. Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Nocval are the parents of
four children, Harry, Vera, Wanda and Lois.
Reared on the home farm George Whited was educated in the common
schools of Rapatee and early became familiar with all the duties
which fall to the lot of the agriculturist. Thus well trained he was
ready to become self-supporting at an early age, farming first on
the homestead and later for himself, buying land near by. It was his
earnest wish not to settle far from his old home and the childhood
scenes amid which he was brought up, and in this desire he was
gratified since he has never in his life lived over one and one-half
miles from his present farm on section 34. By his close application
throughout the period in which he carried on general agricultural
pursuits he was enabled to accumulate a substantial competency out
of his profits and now divides the management of the place with his
son. He lives in the old residence which is the only one of the
buildings not erected by his own efforts, having been built by his
grandfather. The farm is well equipped and improved and is supplied
with two sets of buildings.
948 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY, IL
The marriage of Mr. Whited and Miss Iambia Foster was celebrated on
September 29, 1887. She was a daughter of James M. Foster, one of
the survivors of the Black Hawk war, having the distinction of being
the first settler in the county and the first supervisor elected in
the township. Mr. Foster, who owned a large tract of land in this
vicinity married Miss Louisa Ward of this county, both being natives
of Ohio, settling in Illinois in the days of its early growth. They
were the parents of seven children. To Mr. and Mrs. George Whited
eight children were born: Blanche, who died at the age of two years
; Tracy, who operates the homestead; Chloe, Harold, Wayne, Audrey,
Halo and Kenneth.
Since attaining his majority Mr. Whited has been affiliated with the
democratic party and has been called upon to serve as justice of the
peace. Fraternally he is connected with the Modern Woodmen of
America and the Odd Fellows of Rapatee. Mr. and Mrs. Whited are
members of the Methodist Episcopal church in which their loyal and
helpful support has won them many warm friends.
S. L. VANCE.
S. L. Vance, one of the well known residents of Knox county, lives
two miles northeast of Yates City. He was born in Ohio in 1861, his
parents being Andrew and Harriet (Kibbler) Vance. His father was
engaged in agriculture and when S. L. Vance was a lad of seven
years, came to -Illinois, settling in Knox county, on a farm of two
hundred and forty acres which still is the property of S. L. Vance.
Here he cultivated the soil for many years, retiring from active
participation in the labors of his farm nineteen years ago. He now
resides in Elmwood and at the age of eighty-five years is still in
good health and cheerful spirits. Mrs. Vance died some years ago.
They were the parents of six children, of whom four are living:
John; Mrs. V. Rogers; S. L.; Henry, deceased; Mrs. Ola Mace,
deceased; and Neal.
Brought up in the vicinity of Yates City, S. L. Vance acquired his
education in the schools of this locality and when old enough to
handle a plow engaged in farming on the home place. After he had
thoroughly mastered the great variety of knowledge with which an
agriculturist must be conversant he engaged in tilling the fields on
his own account. For this purpose he bought a farm from his father.
The house and barn had been erected before the place came into his
possession but all the other improvements were made by him. He is
exceptionally successful in all the departments of general farming
and pays much attention to the raising of high-grade stock for
shipment to the Chicago market.
On March 9, 1892, Mr. Vance was united in marriage to Miss Lettie E.
Riner, a daughter of Matthew and Margaret (Wingader) Riner,
residents of this county. Mrs. Riner is a daughter of John Wingader
and a native of Ger-
951
many. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Vance two children have been born: Carmon,
who is attending school in Yates City; and Andrew, who is deceased.
In his political affiliations Mr. Vance is in sympathy with the
principles of the democratic party. Fraternally he is connected with
the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Modern Woodmen of
America. Happy in disposition and kind towards all, Mr. Vance has
many friends in the community in which he lives, having always been
devoted to the interests promoting the general welfare.
A. S. RICE.
A worthy representative of the agricultural interests of Victoria
township is to be found in the person of A. S. Rice, who owns two
hundred acres of well improved land, six miles north of
Williamsfield. His birth occurred in Knox county on the 9th of
December, 1858, his parents being S. F. and Harriett M. (Aldridge)
Rice, who are mentioned at greater length elsewhere in this work.
A. S. Rice passed the early years of his life similarly to other
farmer lads of the same period and circumstances. In the acquirement
of an education he attended the schools in his district, and such
times as he was not thus occupied, assisted with the lighter tasks
about the home farm. His duties increased with the development of
his strength, and by the time he had attained his maturity he was a
capable agriculturist. Soon thereafter he located on the old farm of
D. Anderson, who broke the first prairie in Victoria township,
coming to his present place in 1892. This contains eighty acres of
rich, fertile land, that has been brought under high cultivation,
while he also owns one hundred and twenty acres two miles south.
During the nineteen years of his residence, Mr. Rice has made such
improvements in the property from time to time as his circumstances
warranted. He has erected large barns, that provide ample shelter
for his stock; substantial outbuildings within which can be found
all the usual modern implements that are required in the cultivation
of the fields; and a comfortable farm house. His fields are
carefully cultivated and devoted to such cereals as are best adapted
to the soil, the greater portion of his products being used for the
feeding of stock, of which he has made a specialty for the last
twenty-five years. Practical in his ideas and progressive in his
methods, Mr. Rice is meeting with success in his undertakings and is
now numbered among the prosperous farmers of the township. His
success must be very largely attributed to his close application and
the intelligent direction of his activities, as he began his
business career without capital, other than his tireless energy and
determination of purpose. His development has not been at all
phenomenal but the permanent, steady progress of the man who wins
his own way.
Mr. Rice's plans for a home of his own had their culmination in his
marriage to Miss Effie Brown, of Elmwood, a daughter of Hiram Brown,
a well known pioneer of Elmwood. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Rice
numbers five, as follows: Harriett M., who married Frank Peterson,
of Victoria township; Mary, the wife of Edward Lapham; Laura, who
married Will Spangler of Oakland, California; Hiram, who married
Anna Welsh, and lives on his father's farm; and Annie, at home.
952 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
The fraternal relations of Mr. Rice are confined to his membership
in the Modern Woodmen of America. He is a republican in politics and
assumes his responsibilities as a citizen by assisting with the
government of the township. He has several times been called to
public office, having discharged the duties of school director,
while two years ago he was collector and he has been road
commissioner. In the administration of his public duties he has
manifested the same executive ability and powers of organization, as
well as method and system that characterize him as a business man.
Mr. Rice is held in high esteem and respect in the community where
he has resided for so many years, ever having evinced during that
period the substantial qualities that distinguish the best type of
citizens.
SAMUEL HARRY
JOHNSON.
Samuel Harry Johnson is one of the enterprising young men of Altona
whose success is due to his enterprise, diligence and determination.
He is associated with his brother, John A. Johnson, as clerk in the
conduct of a grocery store and has become widely and favorably known
in this part of the county. He was born in Altona, June 6, 1885, a
son of Peter E. Johnson. His grandparents were John and Christina (Magnes)
Johnson, farming people of Swreden, and in their family were nine
children, of whom seven are yet living. Peter E. Johnson, the father
of our subject, is now living in Altona. He was born in Sweden,
October 7, 1844, an(l came to America in 1881, at which time he
settled in Bureau county, Illinois, where he followed the occupation
of farming. He also soon entered the employ of the Chicago,
Burlington & Quincy Railroad Company, with which he has since been
associated. Pie resided for a time at Maiden, Illinois, and
afterward came to Altona, where he did section work for the railroad
until 1909, when he was given the position of tower watchman near
Altona. He was also at one time employed in the coal mines. Pie
married Mathilda Swanson, who was born March 30, 1845, m tne same
part of Sweden in which her husband's birth occurred. She was a
daughter of Swan Swanson and was only nine years of age at the time
of her mother's death. Mr. and Mrs. Peter Johnson crossed the
Atlantic on the same vessel and were married several months after
their arrival.
Samuel Harry Johnson spent his youthful days in the place of his
nativity and the public schools afforded him his educational
opportunities, after which he entered the grocery business at Altona
and is now assisting his brother as clerk in the conduct of an
establishment of this character. He looks after the well appointed
store, in which they carry a large and carefully selected line of
staple and fancy groceries, and their trade is constantly increasing
as the result of honorable dealing and earnest effort to please
their customers.
Mr. Johnson attends the Methodist church and is prominent in the
Maccabees lodge at Altona, serving at the present time as its record
keeper. He also belongs to Woodmen Camp, No. 3737, at Altona, in
which he has likewise filled a number of offices. His name is also
on the membership roll of the Odd Fellows
lodge and he is vice president of the Altona Volunteer Fire Company.
His interest in all that pertains to public progress and improvement
is deep and sincere and is evidenced in the hearty cooperation which
he gives to many movements for the general good.953
CARL OSCAR JOHNSON.
The name of Johnson is closely associated with mercantile interests
in Altona, where Carl Oscar Johnson is now engaged in clerking. He
was born in Maiden, Illinois, May 10, 1882, and is a son of P. E.
Johnson and a brother of John August and Samuel Harry Johnson, both
of whom are mentioned elsewhere in this volume. In his school days
he engaged in clerking for his brother, with whom he remained
altogether for eleven years, after which he became connected with H.
L. Peterson, an Altona merchant, with whom he has since been
associated.
In community life Mr. Johnson figures quite prominently, being now
well known as second lieutenant of the Altona Fire Company, No. 1.
He is also connected with Altona Tent, No. 116, K. O. T. M., and is
at present sergeant, chaplain and finance keeper, in which offices
he has served for two years. His religious faith is that of the
Swedish Lutheran church, in which he was .-eared. The family have
long been known in Altona and its representatives have taken an
active and helpful part in all the projects for public progress and
are equally well known in the social life of the town.
DAVID THOMPSON.
General farming engaged the attention of David Thompson, who was a
substantial farmer and representative citizen of Walnut Grove
township, this county. He was born in Elkhart, Indiana, on the 6th
of December, 1835, a son of John and Catherine (Livingston)
Thompson, who were natives of Ohio. They removed to Indiana, where
they resided for a short time before coming to Knox county, near
Altona, where they engaged in agricultural pursuits.
David Thompson devoted practically his entire life to farming.
During his early days, while attending the district schools, he
assisted his father and afterward gave his whole time and attention
to the cultivation of the home property before starting out
independently. In 1862 he enlisted in Company G, Eighty-ninth
Regiment of Illinois Infantry, from Altona and was in the service
for three years, the greater part of which was devoted to duty on
the forage wagon because his health would not permit him to engage
in actual lighting. Of his four brothers who enlisted one was killed
and one was wounded.
Mr. Thompson was married in 1868 to Catherine Richmond, who was born
near Wheeling, West Virginia, September 22, 1845, an<^ is a daughter
of Joseph and Susan Richmond, the former also a native of West
Virginia. She remained at home after finishing her schooling until
the time of her marriage. The father
954 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
devoted the early part of his active career to farming and also to
buying stock, but later studied for the ministry and became a
minister in the Methodist church. The remainder of his life was
devoted to preaching in his home district, where he served as
circuit rider over a district covering a radius of twenty-five
miles. He was married to Susan Chess, who was a daughter of Daniel
Chess and whose death occurred at the age of fifty-four years, near
Columbus, Ohio. To this union eight children were born, four of whom
are now living: Mary, who is the wife of Samuel McHard, of Aledo,
Illinois; Mrs. Catherine Thompson, of Altona; Clarinda, who was
married to James Piatt, of Fort Collins, Colorado ; and George, who
is a resident of Oregon. To Mr. and Mrs. Thompson were born the
following children: Joseph E., now a resident of Des Moines, Iowa;
Harry J., of Valparaiso, Indiana; Roy D., whose home is in Greeley,
Colorado; William, a farmer living at Altona; Susan, the deceased
wife of Charles Sawyer; John, deceased; and May Bell, the wife of
David N. McMaster, of Walnut Grove township.
Mr. Thompson took an active interest in the Democratic party to
which he gave his allegiance and did all he could to promote its
measures and policies. His interest in the development of the
educational and industrial projects instituted in his district and
his executive ability in furthering these movements were recognized
and given opportunity for expression while he was a member of the
school board and while he served as president of the Grange, his
term of office following immediately after its organization. Fie was
a substantial citizen who merited the respect and confidence of the
entire community and his later prosperity and the comfortable life
which Mrs. Thompson is now living were both due to his own
exertions, his indefatigable labor and his careful management. He
was not only industrious and enterprising but was also a man of high
moral character and was highly esteemed both as a farmer and a
citizen throughout his township. His death occurred September n,
1894.
RICHARD C. STUCKEY.
Richard C. Stuckey, now deceased, was a resident of Altona after his
retirement from his farm in Walnut Grove township. ITe was born
March 12, 1833, in Bedford county, Pennsylvania, and was a son of
Charles Stuckey, who was a native of Germany and came to America in
his youth. The latter married Rebecca Silver and remained on his
farm in Pennsylvania until his death in 1872, at the age of
seventy-two years. lie was one of eight children, of whom six
survive, three sons and three daughters, namely: Mrs. Annie S.
Guthrie, of Denver, Colorado; Mrs. Emma M. Scott, of Iowa; Mrs.
Amanda Toles, of Denver, Colorado; Simon H. Stuckey, of California;
William A. Stuckey, of Fairmont, Nebraska; and Charles Scott
Stuckey, of Bedford county, Pennsylvania.
After completing his education in the district schools, Richard
Stuckey assisted his father for a few years and in May, 1853, at the
age of twenty-one years, came to Knox county with a colony of
settlers. He located on the farm upon which he remained until his
retirement in 1897. During these years he was actively engaged in
cultivating and developing the land which brought him sufficient
remuneration to give him the opportunity of enjoying leisure and
comfort in his later years. When he left the farm he moved to
Altona, where his death occurred on the 8th of October, 1910. 955
In February, 1859, Richard Stuckey was married to Mary Timmons,
whose birth occurred on the 29th of February, 1836, in Madison
county, Ohio, and who is the daughter of Thomas Timmons of Carlisle,
Pennsylvania. The father was born in 1800 and his death occurred in
1863. He was the son of Peter and Margaret (Beth) Timmons, the
former a soldier in the war of 1812. Thomas Timmons spent his active
life in agricultural pursuits, his early days being spent in farming
and teaming in his native state. In 1833 he removed to Ohio, where
he devoted his entire time to the cultivation of the farm upon which
he located. He was especially interested in providing for the
comforts and pleasures of his family. He married Hanna Peoples who
died in 1854 at the age of forty-eight years. She was also a native
of Pennsylvania and was a daughter of Richard and Ann (Longstretcht)
Peoples, the former being an agriculturist. To them ten children
were born, three of whom survive: Rebecca, who is the wife of H.
Alder, of West Jefferson, Ohio; Laura, who married F. A. Kelly and
is also a resident of West Jefferson; and Mrs. Mary Stuckey.
To Mr. and Mrs. Stuckey the following children were born: Laura, the
eldest, is the wife of O.. Preston of Monmouth, Illinois, and they
are the parents of two children, namely: Edith, the wife of A.
Miller, of Monmouth, and the mother of two children; and Earl
Preston, who is residing at home. Eugene H. Stuckey, who is residing
in Madison county, Ohio, and is married to Ruth Timmons. Richard C.
Jr., who married Elsa Monfort, has two children and is residing in
Columbus, Ohio. Ned S. is cultivating the old homestead upon which
he resides. He married Nellie Chapman and to them two children have
been born, Nellie I. and Jessie M., Frank Charles, William A.,
Silvia and May are deceased.
Mr. Stuckey gave his political support to the republican party and
was most active in promoting its policies and in working for the
support of its men and measures. Mrs. Stuckey is a member of the
Presbyterian church of Altona, and for twenty years has been an
active worker in the Ladies Social Union of that church, having been
one of its original members. Mr. Stuckey's life exemplified what can
be done when unremitting energy, persistency of purpose and
conscientious labor are displayed in the development of a new
territory. His integrity and fairness in all business operations as
well as his active interest in any movements pertaining to the moral
and social development of his community won for him the respect and
regard of his fellow citizens.
C. H.
PULVER.
C. H. Pulver has devoted his energies during the greater part of the
twenty-four years he has resided in Williamsfield to contracting and
building, although for a time he conducted a general mercantile
establishment. He was born in Minnesota in 1862, his parents being
S. W. and Jeannette (Doty) Pulver. The father was born in the state
of New York in 1825, and there he was reared and
956 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY, Illinois
educated and also learned the carpenter's trade. In his early
manhood he came to the middle west, following his trade at various
points in Minnesota and Illinois, finally settling at Williamsfield.
Here he passed the remainder of his life, his death occurring at the
residence of his son, C. H. Pulver, in 1904.
C. H. Pulver was only a babe of three days when his people removed
from Minnesota. He attended the common schools until it was deemed
he had sufficient education to fit himself for a vocation, when he
laid aside his books and learned the carpenter's trade under the
direction of his father. When he was twenty-seven, he came to
Williamsfield, erecting the first building in the town. Carpentering
and contracting thereafter engaged his attention for many years,
yielding him satisfactory returns. He at one time withdrew from this
vocation, however, and went into the general •merchandise business,
but subsequently returned to the contracting business. Mr. Pulver is
a good mechanic and a capable business man with thoroughly practical
ideas that he intelligently carries out in the construction of his
buildings. lie has succeeded in his undertakings here largely
because he has always been found reliable and trustworthy in all of
his transactions. It has been one of his principles during his
entire business career not to make a promise he could not fulfill,
at the same time he will noi compromise on the quality of his work
in order to do this.
On June 26, 1890, Mr. Pulver married Miss Kate Cole, and they are
tht parents of two children: Mary J., born June 19, 1891; and Doris,
born October, 1897. Three children, a son and two daughters, have
passed away.
Fraternally Mr. Pulver is affiliated with the Masons, Knights of
Pythias and Independent Order of Odd Fellows, while he votes the
republican ticket. He has always taken active interest in local
political affairs and is now discharging the duties of supervisor.
He was elected to this office in April, 1909, and was the only
successful republican candidate, the remainder of the ticket all
having gone democratic, this fact attesting his popularity in the
community generally, and the efficiency with which he has filled
other offices. During the greater part of his residence in
Williamsfield, Mr. Pulver has been connected with the government of
the town, having filled among others the offices of town clerk and
tax collector. He is held in high respect in the community, having
shown himself to be conscientious and honorable in the discharge of
public duties, and reliable and trustworthy in business
transactions.
T. W.
RAY.
T. W. Ray, the owner of one hundred and fifty acres of fertile land
in Truro township that he devotes to general farming, was born on a
farm in Victoria township, Knox county, in 1853. ^ls father, L. D.
Ray, was a native of Pennsylvania, whence he removed in his early
manhood to Illinois, locating in this county. Here he met and
subsequently married Mary A. Sweeney, the mother of our subject, and
a native of Vermont. L. D. Ray was an agriculturist and for many
years resided on a farm in Victoria township, to the cultivation and
improvement of which he devoted his entire time and attention until
his demise at the age of fifty-four years. The family of Mr. and
Mrs. Ray numbered five, our subject being the second in order of
birth. The others are as follows: William H., who is a farmer in
Victoria township; one who died in infancy; Addie, the wife of Frank
Lapham, and Clarence, who is operating the old home place in
Victoria township. 957
The schooling of T. W. Ray was obtained in his home district, and
when he had mastered the common branches the duties of the
schoolroom gave way to those of the field. He thereafter gave his
undivided attention to the plowing, planting and harvesting of the
fields and care of the stock, his responsibilities increasing as his
strength and ability developed with the passing of time. At the age
of nine he plowed his first field of corn, and has performed a like
task each recurring season since then. He remained on the old
homestead, with the operation of which he assisted his father, until
he was twenty-five. Feeling at the end of that time that his own
best interests demanded that he begin working for himself, he
removed to this township, his entire life having been passed here
and in Victoria townships with the exception of two years, when he
engaged in farming in Nebraska. In 1902, Mr. Ray bought his present
place, containing one hundred and fifty acres of land, located three
miles northwest of Williamsfield. Since becoming the owner of this
property he has fenced the land and made all of the improvements,
including the erection of good, substantial barns and outbuildings.
He is an industrious man of practical ideas and progressive methods
and has assiduously applied himself to bringing the soil under high
cultivation. His fields are devoted to diversified farming in
connection with which he raises cattle. He is meeting with success
in both lines of his business and annually harvests abundant crops
that net him a good dividend on his labor.
Mr. Ray completed his arrangements for a home of his own when he
married Miss Ellen Lapham, who was born and reared in Knox county,
being a native of this township. Mr. and Mrs. Ray have but one child
living, Meta, who married Carl Rice, a son of John Rice.
Fraternally Mr. Ray is a Mason, and his political allegiance is
given to the republican party. He takes an active interest in all
local affairs and has held various township offices. His entire life
has been spent in the community, where he now lives and among whose
citizens he numbers many stanch friends, whom he has known since
boyhood.
ANDREW HAWKINSON.
Andrew Hawkinson, devoting his time and attention to general farming
on section 35, Henderson township, where he is also making a
specialty of the raising of Poland China hogs, was born in Skone, in
the southern part of Sweden, July 20, 1864. His parents, Hawkin and
Anna (Anderson) Johnson, were also natives of Sweden, where the
father engaged in farming throughout his entire life. He never came
to America, remaining always a resident of Sweden to the time of his
death, which occurred in 1890. His religious faith was evidenced in
his membership in the Swedish Lutheran church.
Andrew Hawkinson, who was the seventh in order of birth in a family
of eight children, acquired a common-school education in his native
land and when
958 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
still a young lad began working on the farm for his father, but from
time to time he heard interesting reports concerning America and its
advantages, and in March, 1884, when in his twentieth year, he
sailed for the new world. After spending three years in Bureau
county, where he worked as a farm hand, he came to Galesburg and has
since lived in Knox county. Since 1887 ne nas made his home upon the
farm which is now his place of residence. It was then the property
of Henry Sisson, for whom he worked until 1895, when he began
farming on his own account. He has always carried on general
agricultural pursuits, cultivating the crops best adapted to the
soil and climate, and in addition to his property on section 35,
Henderson township, where he is cultivating three hundred and twenty
acres of land, he owns a farm in the same township of one hundred
and five acres which he rents. Stock-raising has always been made a
feature of his place, special attention being given to the raising
of thoroughbred Poland China hogs. To this he has given particular
attention since the retirement of Mr. Sisson and has made it a
profitable branch of his business.
On the 4th of April, 1895, Mr. Hawkinson was united in marriage to
Miss Betsy Nelson, a daughter of Nels and Nellie (Bengtson) Nelson
and a granddaughter of Peter Nelson, who was a native of Sweden and
in that country spent his entire life, devoting his time and
energies to the occupation of farming The parents of Mrs. Hawkinson
were also life-long residents of Sweden but she came from her native
land to America in 1887, living with relatives up to the time of her
marriage. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Hawkinson have been born three children:
Anna Matilda, now deceased; Harold, who is attending high school in
Galesburg; and Helen Elizabeth.
Both Mr. and Mrs. Hawkinson hold membership in the Lutheran church
and his study of the political questions and issues of the day has
led him to give his support to the republican party. He has served
as school director and is interested in the cause of education,
recognizing the fact that thorough school training constitutes the
bulwark of the nation. lie has never had occasion to regret his
determination to come to the new world, for he here found the
opportunities which he sought and in their utilization has worked
his way steadily upward, overcoming all difficulties and obstacles
in his path until he is now ranked with the substantial farmers of
Henderson township.
J. W.
MILES.
J. W. Miles, who resides on an attractive farm of eighty acres
located on section 34, Persifer township, was born on the place
where he now resides on March 6, 1864, his parents being R. W. and
Mary Jane (Bruce) Miles. His father was born in Athens, Ohio, and
when old enough to begin his education entered the schools of
Newark, that state, which he attended until he was fourteen. He then
accompanied his parents, S. S. and Eliza Ann (Gilmore) Miles, on
their removal to Knox county. They first located a mile west of
Gilson, where they remained for two years, when in 1838 they went to
flaw Creek township. At the expiration of a year they removed to the
farm where our subject now resides, the family home being a log
cabin. This property has ever since been in the possession of the
family and there the grandfather passed away in 1876 at the age of
eighty-two years. The grandmother survived for four years
thereafter, her death occurring when she was eighty. They were both
laid to rest in the Russell cemetery, Haw Creek township. R. W.
Miles completed his education at Knox College, subsequently
returning to the old farm, where he devoted his attention to
agricultural pursuits during the entire period of his active life,
with the exception of a little over a year spent in the gold mines
of California. He was captain of a company of twenty-four from near
his home who started April 11, 1850, on the western trip by the
overland route and returned in June, 1851, by way of Panama.. He was
very successful in his agricultural undertakings and made extensive
improvements on the place, making it one of the valuable properties
of the township.
Progressive and
public-spirited, he took an active and helpful interest in all
community matters, particularly those of a political nature. He
twice represented his district in the state legislature, serving one
term in 1858 and another in 1878, while for twenty years he was a
supervisor in Persifer township. Educational matters particularly
were given much of his attention, and for many years he was a member
of the board of education, and during the early days he was township
teachers' examiner. He also served as clerk of the township and
justice of the peace and for two years he served as appointee on the
board of equalization, and twice was elected for a term of four
years each to this board. The mother was a native of Vermont and a
daughter of Silas and Hannah Dunham (Scott) Bruce, who about 1844
located on a farm on section 35, Knox township. In matters of faith
the parents were Presbyterians, Grandfather Miles having been a
minister of that denomination before coming to Illinois, while
politically Mr. Miles was a stanch republican. He passed away at the
age of seventy-two and the mother at sixty-four, both being laid to
rest in Russell cemetery, Haw Creek township. Of their marriage
there were born seven children, our subject being the sixth in order
of birth. The others are as follows: Lucy, who married Charles L.
Mastin, of York county, Nebraska; Hannah Eliza, the wife of R. R.
Buckley, of Knoxville; Emma M., who is also a resident of Knoxville;
James H., who was drowned at the old Whitton mill site at the Fort
Wallace ford before he was twenty-one; Rufus, who lived on the old
farm until his marriage, when he went to York county, Nebraska,
where two years later, in 1904, he passed away and is buried at
York, Nebraska; and M. Jennie, the youngest member of the family,
who is living at Knoxville. All were born on the old homestead in
Persifer township and were given the advantages of a good education.
The youthful years of J. W. Miles were not particularly different
from those of other lads of the same period and circumstances. At
the usual age he entered the common schools, where he procured his
preliminary education and subsequently graduated from Knox College
in 1889. Having decided on an agricultural career in preference to
either professional or commercial pursuits he returned to his
father's farm. He attentively applied himself to assisting with the
work, of the fields and the care of the stock, thus obtaining a
thorough knowledge of the practical methods of agriculture and
stock-raising, until his marriage. Subsequent to this event he
located on section 33, Persifer township, where he resided for five
years, at the expiration of which period he returned to the old
farm. Here he has ever since resided, devoting his entire attention
to its further improvement. He is one of the extensive farmers of
the township, owning four hundred
962 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY, Illinois
and sixty acres of land. His fields are operated in strict
accordance to the more progressive methods of modern agriculture,
every detail connected with the tilling of the soil or the gathering
of the crops being given his personal supervision.
For his wife Mr. Miles chose Miss Mary Elizabeth Derham, who was
born in Bristol, England, on the 2d of November, 1863, and is a
daughter of John and Elizabeth (Pitt) Derham, who are residing in
Bristol. Of the union of Mr. and Mrs. Miles there have been born two
children, James Rufus and Phyllis M.
The family attend the Presbyterian church in Knoxville, in which the
parents hold membership, and Mr. Miles is superintendent of the home
Sunday school. His political support he gives to the republican
party and he is now serving in the capacity of both township clerk
and treasurer. Mr. Miles is numbered among the substantial citizens
of his community, where he is held in high regard and has a large
circle of friends.
DAVID NELSON McMASTER.
David Nelson McMaster, who is residing on his farm in Walnut Grove
Township, was born in Knox county on January 18, 1865, and is the
son of John McMaster, a prominent farmer who is living in Altona,
and of whose life a sketch appears elsewhere in this volume.
In his youth David McMaster attended the schools in his district and
assisted his father on the home farm which was one of the best
developed and most highly productive properties in the township. In
the discharge of these duties he showed a ready and willing spirit
and a keen appreciation of the principles of agriculture which were
at that time proving so successful. After he farmed independently he
put much of his past experience into practice and at the same time
advanced with the age, becoming one of the progressive farmers of
the township.
On the 9th of December, 1896, Mr. McMaster was married to May Bell
Thompson. She was born on the 22nd of April, 1869, on the old
Thompson homestead in Walnut Grove township, and is the daughter of
Mr. and Mrs. David Thompson. The father was born December 6, 1835,
and died September 11, 1894, at the age of fifty-eight years and
nine months. Her uncle, John Thompson, was the first white child
born in Knox county. He came to Knox county with his wife, Catherine
Livingston, and located at Altona, Illinois, where they were among
the first settlers. David Thompson removed to Altona, Knox county,
from Ohio, when a mere boy. His whole life has been spent in farming
in this region. He was married to Catherine Richmond, whose birth
occurred in West Virginia, on the 22nd of September, 1845. She is
the daughter of Joseph and Susan Richmond, the former having been in
the service in the Civil war for three years after his enlistment in
1862 in Company G of the Eighty-ninth Regiment under Captain
Whiting. Although he contracted a serious illness during the war he
still -remained with his regiment, serving as teamster until his
time expired. After he was mustered out of service he returned to
his farm and entered actively into the work of its cultivation and
development. He gave his political allegiance to the democratic
party, but never held office.
963 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY, Illinois
In the family of Mr. and Mrs. Thompson were the following children:
Joseph E., who is living in Des Moines, Iowa; Harry J., a resident
of Valparaiso, Indiana; Roy D., whose home is in Greeley, Colorado;
William, a farmer living at Altona; Susan, the deceased wife of
Charles Sawyer; John, deceased; and May Bell, who is now the wife of
Mr. McMaster and remained at home until the time of her marriage.
She is an active and helpful member of the Presbyterian church at
Altona and belongs to its Ladies Aid Society.
Mr. McMaster also holds membership in the church and is an exemplary
representative of the Masonic fraternity, his membership being in
Altona Lodge, No. 330, F. & A. M. His political allegiance is given
to the republican party, but he has never been a seeker after public
office. The cause of education finds in him a warm friend, and he is
now serving as president of the township school board. In many ways,
however, he has displayed his loyalty to the best interests of the
community, and that he is a citizen of enterprise is indicated in
the fact that he has not confined his attention alone to the work of
the farm but has extended his efforts to other lines in which the
public has been a direct beneficiary. Realizing how valuable
telephone service would be to the farming community he joined with
others in organizing the Farmers' Telephone Company of which he is
the president, and he is also the president of the Farmers' Grain
Association. His ability as a business man is thus attested, and at
the same time his labors have proven an element of public
convenience and prosperity as well as a source of individual
success.
JAMES REBSTOCK.
Among Illinois' fast diminishing ranks of Civil war veterans James
Rebstock, a retired farmer of Knox county, is well known as a man
whose unwavering courage and loyal service when a private won for
him not only the admiration of his fellow soldiers, but the
recognition of President Lincoln, who bestowed upon him the rank of
first lieutenant of the Eighth United States Artillery. James
Rebstock was only twenty-one years old when the war broke out, his
birth having occurred March 14, 1839, in Tuscarawas county, Ohio.
Left an orphan at the age of seven James Rebstock experienced some
lonely years in which he was buffeted about by fate, living with
various people at different times and in various kinds of homes. He
did succeed, however, in obtaining something of an education,
desultory though it was, attending school in Ohio, in Indiana and
lastly in Illinois, in which places he made his home successively.
At the outbreak of the Civil war he enlisted in Company G,
Eighty-third Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and served two years and
five days as a private, being then commissioned by President Lincoln
first lieutenant in the Eighth United States Artillery. He was
mustered out March 13, 1866, when he was discharged at Louisville,
Kentucky, and then returned to Gilson, Illinois, where he followed
farming. In 1867 he acquired the farm on which he is now living
retired and now owns altogether three hundred and fifty acres on
section 8, in Haw Creek township, Knox county. This he cultivated
with much care and by the use of progressive methods of tilling the
soil and of practicing scientific economy he was enabled to make a
964 HISTORY OF KNOX
COUNTY
comfortable living and also to save enough to permit him to retire
and enjoy the fruits of his long-continued and faithful labors. He
has his farming done by a tenant and devotes himself to the many
interests which claim his attention in military and educational
circles and as stockholder of the First National Bank of Maquon,
Illinois.
In July, 1866, one year before he became the owner of his present
farm, Mr. Rebstock was united in the bonds of matrimony to Mrs.
Salinda (Lotts) Pick-rel. She was a daughter of Isaac Lotts of Haw
Creek township, and the widow of Solomon Pickrel and was born June
24, 1830. By her union with Mr. Pickrel there were five children,
all of whom are living. They are Minerva, Amarillis, Marshall,
Stephen S., and Solomon Pickrel. There were no children born of her
union with Mr. Rebstock. Mrs. Rebstock belonged to the Methodist
Episcopal church in which she was an earnest worker. After a life
well spent in service to others and in the administration of her
home she passed away January 20, 1911, at the age of eighty years,
six months and twenty-six days, and was laid to rest in the Gilson
cemetery.
In his political views James Rebstock is a republican and has been
chosen by his party to the office of supervisor which he held for
twenty-four years, being for five years of this time the chairman of
the board of supervisors of Haw Creek township. He was also elected
to other offices which he filled with honor, and is the president of
the Haw Creek township high school board. In his religious faith he
is a loyal worshiper in the Methodist Episcopal church to which he
belongs. He is well known in military organizations of the state and
is a member of the George N. Trafton Post, G. A. R., of Knoxville,
Illinois.
An interesting document that throws light on James Rebstock's
military career and also settles a long disputed point of
controversy is an affidavit drawn up by J. N. Hogue in which he
answers the question: "Who fired the first siege gun at Fort
Donelson on the 13th of February, 1862." "I, J. N. Hogue of
Bur-chard, Nebraska, late member of Company B, Eighty-third Illinois
Infantry, do hereby certify that James Rebstock, of Company G, of
the Eighty-third Illinois Infantry, filled the position of No. 3 on
siege gun No. 32, on February 13, 1862, at the battle of Fort
Donelson in Tennessee and fired that day and he also fired it when
two rebels were killed at the muzzle of the gun on said day. I, J.
N. Hogue, was gunner at the time and know all the circumstances of
the above statement.
"J. N. Hogue." Subscribed and sworn before me this 3d day of
January, 1899.
Henry N. Fallers, Notary Public.
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