Elias Bovey, an extensive lumber dealer of Dixon, claims Maryland as the State of his nativity, his birth having occurred in Washington County on the l9th of June, 1838. His father, Jacob Bovey, a native of Pennsylvania, was of French and German descent, his ancestors having settled in the Keystone State long years prior to the Revolutionary War. As a farmer and mechanic he grew to manhood and afterwards engaged in merchandising. When a young man lie accompanied his parents to Maryland, and in that State wedded Delila Kressinger, a native of Virginia, descended from an old Virginian family of German origin. She too, had gone to Maryland when young. In 1843 Mr. Bovey, accompanied by his wife and four children, started overland with teams to Illinois, having determined to try his fortune on the broad prairies of the new and growing West. South of Mt. Morris he settled and entered two hundred and forty acres of land, and also purchased a partially improved claim. After many years devoted to agricultural pursuits he was called to his final rest in 1879, at the age seventy-two years. His wife is now living in Morris, and although now well advanced in life the infirmities of old age do not press heavy upon her. She holds membership with the United Brethren Church, as did her husband. In politics he was a Republican, but never sought political preferment.

Our subject was the second in order of birth in their family of children, six of whom are yet living. When a lad of five summers he came to Illinois and his early education, acquired in the district schools of Ogle County, was supplemented by a course or study in Mt. Morris Seminary. Thus was he well fitted for the practical duties of life, and the way in which he has met all obstacles and disadvantages in his path shows that he has the native determination and energy to succeed, whatever comes. Since 1867 he has resided in Lee County, and in 1872 he embarked in his present business. His location is now on Water Street, and the large stock of lumber which he carries shows that he has an excellent trade. Mr. Bovey is a man of excellent business ability. sagacious and far-sighted and by the exercise of correct principles has won prosperity.

Mr. Bovey was united in marriage with Jennie Buckalco, a native of this county. her death occurred in Dixon at the age of thirty-three years, and a daughter was left to mourn her loss - Emma, who was educated in Dixon and Evanston College, and is now assisting her father in office work. Mr. Bovey was again married in this city, his second union being with Miss Addie Clute, one of Dixon's fair daughters. Her parents, John W. and Henrietta (Peterson) Clute, early settlers of the county, are now residing in Dixon, where the daughter spent the days of her maidenhood and acquired her education. One child graces the second marriage, a son, Richard.

Mr. Bovey, his wife and children, are all members of the Methodist Church, in which he serves as trustee, class leader and steward. One of its consistent members, he is an active worker in the Master's vineyard and takes a deep interest in the growth and upbuilding of the church. To its support he contributes liberally and his efforts in its behalf have proven of much benefit to the society. In politices he is an inflexible adherent of Republican principles, having long supported that party.

Portraits and Biographical Lee County IL

Illinois - "Our Way"