Foster Township

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Foster Township is named after Hardy Foster.  He was originally from Goeorgia, born in 1797.  He was the first settler in Foster in 1823.  He built a log cabin and barn which became a stagecoach resting stop.

In 1833 a post office was added and Hardy Foster became the first postmaster until he died in 1863.  He was the most prominent of the settlers.  He was also a member of the legislature and a county Judge.  Fosterburg thrived until the Railroads came through.

Because of that, more people started to move to Kinmundy and Vernan to start their businesses.  Lester ended up being the only location with a store, postoffice, school house, and a church after the Civil War.

Fosterburg was also known for many years as the place where Volunteers for the 111th IL Inf. was organized with Capt. John Foster, son of Hardy.

The first teacher was Thomas Moore and by 1920, Foster had 8 1 room schools.  They were as follows:Chance,Zion, Doolen, Arnold Chapel, Jones, Greenridge, Sandy Branch and Northfork.

There are 8 cemeteries in Foster and 1 small family plot.  Sandy Branch being the most prominent, having many pioneers and war veterans buried there.      Top of Page