Lysander Cyreno Sawyer who resides on section 6, Lee Center Township, was born in Clark County, Ohio, January 11, 1818, and is a twin brother of L. Cyreruis Sawyer, of whom see sketch in another part of this volume. He came to illinois with his parents, and remained at home until he was eighteen years old, when he started out in life by himself. He worked for other people, and was also employed in improving his claim, located on section 1, Amboy Township. lie also worked one winter in the lead mines in Jo Daviess County. He then traded his claim for a farm in China Township, on which he settled, and where he lived almost fifteen years, then purchased the farm where he now lives, and which comprises fifty acres. He has here made good improvements, and has his farm in first-class shape.

In 1850, Mr. Sawyer, in common with so many of the Western people, was attacked by the gold fever, going overland to California with an oxteam, the journey occupying six months' time. He remained in California about two years, during which he had the usual varied experience of the seekers after gold. He was ill a good part of the time, and on this account was not so successful as He might otherwise have been. He returned by way of the Isthmus and came very near being drowned, as the steamer on which he embarked at San Francisco was unseaworthy, but they succeeded in reaching Acapulco, when the vessel completely gave out, the crew and passengers, however, congratulating themselves that matters were no worse. Mr. Sawyer returned to his far in China Township, where he has since remained. He was married in Lee Centre Township in September (28) 1840, to Miss Charlotte Shumway, who was born in Bradford County, Pa., September 19, 1820 where she grew to womanhood.

The father of Mrs. Sawyer, Darius Shumway, was a native of New York State, and her mother, whose maiden name was Catherine Hulburt, was born in New Jersey. They emigrated to Illinois, settling in Inlet Grove, in this county, but on account of sickness remained there but one year, when they returned to their old home in Pennsylvania, where they died. They had nine children, of whom Mrs. Sawyer was the second in order of birth.

Our subject and his wife are the parents of three children; Sarah e., who is the wife of Daniel Corell; William H., a farmer in China Township; and Hiram C., also a farmer, who resides in Sac County, Iowa. Mr. Sawyer is a strong Republican, and has held the office of School Director. Hrs. Sawyer is a member of the Methodist Episcopal CHurch, and is highly esteemed for her many amiable qualities.

Portraits and Biographical Lee County IL

Illinois - "Our Way"