Welcome to
Richland County
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BAILEY , CHARLES L.(NEW) |
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BALMER , FREDERICK(NEW) |
BASDEN , DAVID F. (NEW) |
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BAUER , PHILIP PETER(NEW) |
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BEADLE, Earley (NEW) |
BECK, Hon. William F. (NEW) |
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BECKETT , JAMES H.(NEW) |
BEEKMAN , CORNELIUS(NEW) |
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BERRY, JACOB (NEW) |
BERRY , JACOB ALVIN(NEW) |
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BERRY , JOHN O. (NEW) |
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BILLINGS, Peter (NEW) |
BLANCHARD , JOSIAH W. (NEW) |
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BLOOR , JAMES C. (NEW) |
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BOLEY, William B. (NEW) |
BOLEY, WILLIAM E. (NEW) |
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BOUGHAN , WILLIAM (NEW) |
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BOURNE , SAMUEL T. (NEW) |
BOWER , GEORGE W. (NEW) |
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BOWER, Hon. William(NEW) |
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BRITTON, A.J. (NEW) |
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BROOKS , JOSEPH L. (NEW) |
BROWN, Absalom (NEW) |
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BROWN , JAMES M (NEW) |
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BUNN, WILLIAM B. (NEW) |
BURNETT , DWIGHT (NEW) |
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BUTLER , GEORGE (NEW) |
BYERS, John (NEW) |
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BYRNE , NATHAN W. (NEW) |
BYRNE , SAMUEL P. (NEW) |
Sol. BACHARACH -- dealer in clothing, was born in Bavaria, on May 29, 1838, and is second in a family of seven children born to, Moritz and Fannie (ROSENFELD) BACHARACH, both Bavarians. Moritz was educated in his native country, and also married there. He learned the tanners' trade, and followed it in connection with the wholesale leather trade, for many years. In 1851 or 1852, he emigrated with his wife and family to the United States, and settled in New York City, where he resided til the end of his days, on June 10,1883, at the age of seventy-four. Mr. BACHARACH was employed, after coming to this country, in the manufacture of cigars, and in a general mercantile trade. He invented an improved street urinal and an improved garbage box. Sol, our subject, received limited advantages in the subjects of learning, in Bavaria, but being ambitious, he labored earnestly to aquire a knowledge of things pertaining to business, and has succeeded in aquiring it. When twelve years of age, he commenced learning the tailors' trade, but after two years was compelled to abandon it on account of ill health. He came to New York with his parents, clerked in a clothing store, and remained there until 1854. He was then employed in the same capacity at Shelbyville, Ky; Keokuk, Iowa, Quincy, Il, Cincinnati, Ohio, and in July of the year 1863, came to Olney, where he opened an independent clothing store. His business is very successful and extensive, and he carries a stock amounting to from $15,000 to $20,000; average sales annually being $25,000. In 1875, Mr. BACHARACH erected a handsome brick block, one of the first erected in southern Illinois, and here conducts his business. In 1869, August 23, he married Bertha BACHARACH who bore three children, of whom one, Alice is living. Mrs. BACHARACH died April 19, 1875. On February 6,1876, Mr. BACHARACH married Clara FOREMAN, of Chicago, and to this union three children have been given. Mr. BACHARACH is a member of Olney Lodge, No. 140, A.F. & A.M., Richland Chapter, No. 38, R.A.M. and Olney Council, No. 55., R. & S.M. He is also a member of the I.O.O.F., and of Olney Lodge, No.76, A.O.U.W., of which he is a charter member, and also of the Etz Chaim Lodge, No. 205, I.O.B.B. He is a Republican, and a very prominent business man.
Darius BAIRD -- hardware, was born in Medina County, Ohio, August 18, 1837, and is the third of nine children born to Asa H. and Lucy (TANNER) BAIRD, both natives of Vermont, and of Irish and English descent respectively. Asa H. settled in Medina County, and married there, when a young man. He followed contracting on public works, and also agriculture to some extent. In 1837, he removed to Lawrence County, Ill, bought a farm and saw mill, and during this time built and graded the bridges of twelve miles of the State road. In 1841, he came to Olney, and built the Commercial House, continuing in the hotel business until his death. He kept the stage stand for the Saint Louis & Cincinnati Stage Company. He owned a eighty acre farm upon which the Southwest part of Olney now stands. He built the first permanent courthouse of the county, and was for several years County Assessor & Deputy Sheriff. He and his wife were members of the Christian Church. Darius was poorly educated. His father died when he was about ten or twelve years old, and he and his brother assisted their mother in managing the farm and hotel for several years. In 1860 he went into a store at Olney, and remained one year as saleman. He then engaged in the livery business until 1866, and in 1867, went to Lathrop, Clinton Co., Mo, and engaged in the hardware business. Mr. BAIRD remained there, until 1875, when he returned to Olney, and has since been following an extensive heavy hardware trade here. He carries a large and well-selected stock in his line, and is extensively patronized. He was married in 1862, to Rose A. McWILLIAMS, of Noble County, Ohio. Three children were given to them, one of whom is living. Mr. BAIRD and his wife are Congregationalists. He is a Republican, and an old settler of our county.
Samuel J. BAKER -- photographer, was born in Orleans, Orange Co, Ind., on January 31, 1855, and is the ninth of eleven children, born to John and Sarah A. (DILLARD) BAKER, natives of Woodford County, Ky., and of Orange County,Ind., and of Holland and English descent respectively. When three years old, in 1815, John was taken to Orange (now Washington) County, Ind, and received schooling in log schoolhouses only. He was married April 6, 1837, to Sarah A. DILLARD. He was a stone mason, studied law, and also served as Justice of the Peace and Auditor, each one term. In 1859 he removed to Vincennes, and still lives there, and where he practiced his profession until 1864, and also was Judge of the Third Judicial Court of Indiana. Mrs. BAKER died March 31, 1871. In August, 1875, Mr. BAKER married Lida CARNAHAN. He is a Protestant, also a Democrat. Samuel J. was well educated, at Vincennes, Ind, assisted his father on the farm, and at seventeen began to learn photography. He has followed that business ever since, at Princeton, Il, Troy, Ohio., and in 1877 located at Olney, and took charge of the gallery formerly owned by his brother-in-law, Mr. J. RUSH, who died on the first day of that year. Myra B. RUSH, his widow, and our subjects sister, still owns a interest in the business. Their gallery is finely located and conveniently arranged, and is one of the best in southern Illinois. Mr. BAKER is a Baptist, and his sister a Presbyterian. Mr. BAKER belongs to Richland Lodge, No. 180., Olney Encampment, No.61, I.O.O.F., in which he is Past Grand of the Subordinate Lodge.
Dr. Orris A. BATTSON -- was born in Sullivan County, Ind, January 25, 1827, is the second in a family of four children given to Jonathan M. and Rachel (MARNEY) BATTSON, natives of Kentucky, and Knox County, Ind., and of English and Scotch descent, respectively. Jonathan M. was educated, married, and early followed the carpenters' and builders' trade, in his native state. In about 1816, he removed to Carlisle, Sullivan Co., Ind, where he still followed his chosen profession, until his death, which occurred in 1858. He was several years a Justice of the Peace in Sullivan County and was also a Captain in the State Militia. Mr. and Mrs. BATTSON were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Orris A. received a good education at Bloomington and Greencastle universities, and at the age of nineteen began the study of medicine with Dr. A. M. MURPHY, at Carlisle, Ind. In 1846-47, he attended the medical department of the University of Louisville, Ky and in 1847 commenced the practice of the profession he had chosen in his native county, Sullivan, where he remained one year. In 1848 he came to Claremont, Richland Co., Il and continued practicing, finally succeeding in establishing a very lucrative business. In 1881, Dr. BATTSON concluded to change his residence again, and located here at Olney, where he is firmly established in a paying practice. In 1850 the Doctor was married to Harriet SNYDER, a native of Lawrence County, Il and a daughter of John SNYDER, a pioneer of this county. They have had seven children, five of whom now are living. Dr. BATTSON was for two years a member of the Board of Supervisors of Richland County. In politics he is a stanch Republican, and a respected pioneer of this county.
Hon. W.F. BECK -- editor of the Olney Times, was born in Wurtemberg, Germany,
July 31,1848, and when but little more than three years old, in 1852, was brought by his parents to the United
States. They first settled by Circleville, Ohio, where they remained two years; then came to Olney, Richland County,
where Mr. BECK was successfully engaged in merchandising, until his death. Mrs. BECK is still living, and resides
at Olney. Hon. W.F. BECK received a good common school and academic education, in youth, and afterward graduated
from Finley & Nicholson's Commercial College. Soon after this, he engaged in merchandising at Olney, and speedily
became one of the successful and leading dealers of the city. In 1881 he purchased the Olney Times, the
Demoeratic organ of the county, of which he is at present editor and proprietor. At the age of twenty-two he was
elected Clerk of the city of Olney, and was successively re-elected to taht office for seven years; afterwards,
he was elected one of the councilmen of the city. In 1879 he was elected one of the Board of County Commissioners,
of which body he was appointed chairman, and in November of the same year, was appointed Master in Chancery of
Richland County. Mr. BECK is a charter member of Olney Lodge, No. 76, A.O.U.W, instituted in May, 1877, of which
Lodge he was the first Master Workman. In 1879, he represented his Lodge in the Grand Lodge of the State, and has
been a member of that body ever since. In 1881 he again represented his Lodge in the Grand Lodge of the State.
As a member of the Grand Lodge, he has served on the railroad, legislative and finance committes. As a member of
the legislative committee, he helped to frame and secure the adoption of the law creating the office of Grand Medical
Examiner. In 1882 he was elected Grand Overseer, and is at present Grand Foreman of the State, that being the second
highest office in the Grand Lodge. He is also a member of Olney Legion, No. 18, Select Knights, A.O.U.W. of which
order he is at present V.C. Mr. BECK is also a charter member and was one of the first officers of Marmion Lodge,
No. 52, K of P, of Olney, Ill. He is also a member of the Grand Lodge of that order, has served on various important
committees, and held the office of G.I.G. In addition to the above, Mr. BECK is also a prominent Mason, being a
member of the four Masonic bodies of the city, and of Peoria Consistory, Scottish Rites, or S.P.R.S., in which
he has advanced next to the highest, or thirty-second degree of Masonry.
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WILLIAM FREDERICK BECK, a well-known citizen of Olney, was born in Ebingen, Wurtemberg, Germany, July 31,
1848, and is the only son of George and Barbara (Streich) Beck. The parents left the Fatherland and crossed the
Atlantic to America when our subject was a lad of four years. The father was a shoe-maker by trade. He located
first in Circleville, Ohio, where he spent three years, and then came with his family to Olney in 1855. Here he
followed his trade for some time. His death occurred in 1869. His wife is still living at the age of sixty-seven
years, and makes her home in Brazil, Ind.
Since his seventh year, Mr. Beck of this sketch has made his home in Olney. He attended the public schools until
eighteen years of age, acquiring a good practical education. Later he embarked in the grocery business, which he
carried on for six years. He then disposed of his interest in that line and opened a clothing store in connection
with N. Kline. They did business together under the firm name of Kline & Beck for seven years, and on the expiration
of that period our subject bought out his partner's interest and carried on the business alone for three years.
It was on the 14th of April, 1882, that he bought the Olney Times, of which he is still editor and proprietor.
This is a bright, newsy sheet, ably edited, and the liberal patronage which it receives is certainly well merited.
He is a member of the Democratic Press Association of Southern Illinois, also of the Southern Illinois Press Association,
of which he is Vice-President, and was elected a delegate of said body to the National Press Association of America
that met in Chicago May 16 to 27, 1893. He is a member of the Illinois Press Association, and is President of the
Olney Press Club, of Olney.
In 1867, Mr. Beck was united in marriage with Amelia Bechman. Unto them were born eight children, but a son died
in infancy, and a daughter, Minnie, died at the age of nineteen years. Those yet living are Clarence V., who assists
his father in editing the paper; Lora E., Harry, Elma, Ruby and Bessie.
Mr. Beck is a member of the Lutheran Church, and his estimable wife holds membership in the Evangelical Church.
He is a public-spirited and progressive citizen and is one of the prominent and influential men of the community.
For about twenty-five years he has served as Secretary of the County Agricultural Society. In politics he is a
leading Democrat. In 1870 he was elected Town Clerk, in which position he served ten years. In 1879 he was elected
County Commissioner and was made Chairman of the Board. That same year, and again in 1885, he was appointed Master
in Chancery. He has been a member of the County Central Committee for twenty years, and Secretary nearly the entire
length of time. He was made Chairman of the Congressional Central Committee of the Sixteenth District in 1884 and
is serving in that capacity at present. He has attended every Democratic State Convention for the past twenty years,
either as a delegate or alternate. In 1884, he was an alternate delegate to the National Democratic Convention,
and in 1888 served as delegate to the National Democratic Convention. In 1892 he was elected State Central Committeeman
for the Sixteenth District. On June 19 he was appointed Postmaster at Olney by President Cleveland, and took charge
on July 1.
Mr. Beck is greatly interested in civic societies and holds membership with the following: Olney Lodge No. 140,
A. F. and A. M.; Richland Chapter No. 38, R. A. M.; Olney Council No. 55, R. & S. M.; Gorin Commandery No.
14, K. T.; Salaam Temple, A. A. O.N. M. S.; and Olney Chapter No. 100, O. E. S. Of all these bodies he has been
Presiding Officer. He is also connected with Van Rensselaer Grand Lodge of Perfection No. 14 ; Gourgas Chapter,
Rose Croix, 16 ; Chicago Council, Princes of Jerusalem, 18 ; and Oriental Consistory, S. P. R. S. 32 , all of Chicago.
He belongs to St. Louis Flock, Nest No. 1, Order of Owls of St. Louis; is a P. C. of Marmion Lodge No. 52. K. P.;
Olney Division No. 58, U. R. K. P.; and is P. M. W. of Olney Lodge No. 76, A. O. U. W., of which order he was elected
Grand Master of the State in 1884. He is likewise a member of Olney Legion No. 18, S. K. A., and was Grand Commander
of the order two years. He is a member and Past Consul of Olney Camp No. 383, M. W. A., and was a State delegate
to the Head Camp in Omaha, Neb., in 1892. With Winnebago Tribe No. 31, I. O. R. M., he also holds membership.
Mr. Beck is a genial, pleasant gentleman, very popular among all classes of people, and has many warm friends who
esteem him highly for his sterling worth and excellencies of character. . As will be seen, he is very prominent
in social circles. In his political career he has made many acquaintances among prominent men and is well versed
in the interests and issues of the day. He has always proved himself a faithful and competent officer and is alike
true to every public and private trust.
Portrait and Biographical Record of Effingham, Jasper and Richland Counties Illinois,
Containing Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens, Governors of the State, and the Presidents
of the United States. (Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1887), p.517 - Submitted by Judy Edwards
James M. BELL -- was born June 3,1841, in Washington County, Penn; the family lived there till he was eight years old; then removed to Ohio; in 1850 they removed to Richmond County; the following year his father entered 120 acres of land; where he died in 1871, aged seventy-one years. Eighty acres of this land, with the homestead, he deeded to his son, James M. In 1861, our subject enlisted in Company D, First Missouri Engineers. This regiment was engaged in repairing and making roads, also building fortifications. He was promoted to Corporal, November1,1862, served three years, and participated in the seige of New Madrid, the fight at Island No.10, the seige of Corinth, the advance of Gen. GRANT's army to Oxford, Miss, seige of Vicksburg, seige of Atlanta, and battle of Jonesboro. He returned to Olney, September1,1864, and has since followed farming. He was married December 22, 1870, to Mary E. BOLINGER, of Calhoun. They have two children, Viola W. and Mary J.
Jacob Alvin BERRY -- who now resides on Section 4, was born in Bonpass Township, Richland County, September 12, 1858, and is the son of John and Adeline (HAYNES) BERRY. His grandfather Jacob BERRY, whose sketch is given heroine is on the pioneers of 1841. His mother was born in Ohio, and with her father, Samuel HAYNES, came to Richland Co. in the same year. His death occured in Bonpass Township about 1864. The mother of our subject died in about 1866. To Mr. and Mrs. BERRY, were born five children, Harriet A. wife of C. ROBBINS, Jacob A., William who died in infancy, Edwin, deceased and Charles H., a music teacher of this county. J.A. BERRY spent his boyhood days upon his father's farm, and in the district schools aquired his primary education, which was supplemented by a year's attendance at Westfield College, where he pursued a scientific course. At the age of twenty-one, and before completing his course, he began teaching and has followed that profession during the winter season's since. He is not only a well-informed man, but is also an able instructor. During the summer he carries on agricultural pursuits. In 188? he purchased his present farm at section 4, Bonpass Twonship, where he has built a comfortable and pleasant residence, also erected other buildings, planted a fine orchard of five acres,etc. He now owns sixty-five acres all highly improved, and in addition to general farming he breeds Ohio improved Chestor-White swine and Jersey cattle. Hi stock is nearly all thorough-bred. On the 7th of October 1883, Mr. BERRY was united in marriage with Miss Tabitha M. ZOOK, a native of Ohio and a daughter of Jacob ZOOK, of Olney, who is of German descent. They had two children, but the elder died in infancy. One is a bright little maiden of two and a-half years. The parents are both members of the United Brethern Church and in social circles they hold a high position. Mr. BERRY is a member of the Farmers Mutual Benefit Association, and is a stock holder in the Missouri Guarantee Loan and Building Association Politically, he is a Republican on questions of natural importance, and in local politics he is independent. For four years he has served as Treasurer, but has never been an office-seeker. Mr. BERRY is recognized as one of the most intelligent and progressive citizens of Bonpass Township.
Peter BILLINGS -- is a leading farmer of this township, is a native of Tennessee,
was born in 1825, and is the son of William and Mary (DAVIS) BILLINGS; the former a native of Tennessee, the latter
of Wales, they were engaged in farming. Grandfather BILLINGS was a captain in the Army of the Revolution, and once,
in a severe personal encounter, had his horse shot under him, Swords were used, and Captain BILLINGS, having broken
that of his antagonist, knocked the second one from his hand. Peter BILLINGS was married, November 24, 1842,
to Miss Mary, daughter of Timothy MURRAY, a native of Lawerence County, Ind; this union was productive of five
children-Timothy, John W. (deceased), Catherine (deceased), Louis E. and James M. Mr. BILLINGS has served his township
of Justice of the Peace. He located here in April, 1852, and entered 182 1/2 acres of Government land, on which
he lived about six years; he afterward entered an additional forty acres, and about 1857, purchased another forty
acres, to which he moved in October, 1858, and on which he has since lived. To these he has added by times, and
now owns 479 acres, well cultivated, and improved, which contains perhaps the finest residence in the county, together
with 105 acres of orchard. He is also a considerable dealer in produce, as well as all varieties of stock, and
is a esteemed citizen.
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PETER BILLINGS is a farmer on section 32, Decker Township, Richland County. He claims Tennessee as the State of
his nativity, his birth having occurred in White County, March 18, 1825. His father, William Billings, was born
in the same county in 1801, and in 1823 wedded Mary Davis, of the same State. Her father was a native of London,
England, and her mother of Wales. Mr. Billings died in Bates County, Mo., in 1870. He was a prominent farmer and
owned large tracts of land. In 1828, he had removed to Indiana, and in 1852 became a resident of Noble Township,
Richland County, from where he went to Missouri. The mother of our subject died in Indiana in 1841. The children
of that marriage are Rebecca and John, both deceased; Peter, of this sketch; Aaron, a farmer of Clay County; Jesse,
of Davis County, Ind.; James, of Arkansas; Benton, who served in the army; Joseph, who was also a soldier and is
now living in Girard, Kan.; and Nancy, deceased. For his second wife, William Billings married Sarah Schaufner,
who died in Missouri. He then wedded Mary Hall. For many years he was a member of the Baptist Church, and was a
highly respected citizen. In politics he was a Whig and afterwards a Republican.
The subject of this sketch was about four years old when he went with his parents to Indiana, where he was reared
to manhood amid the wild scenes of frontier life. He aided in the arduous labors of developing a new farm and took
his place as one of the regular hands in the field from the age of twelve. He left home in 1842, and was joined
in wedlock with Mary Murray, daughter of Timothy Murray. He then operated a rented farm for two years, after which
he bought eighty acres of school land in Lawrence County, Ill. A log cabin was erected and he began the development
of a farm. He came by team to Richland County in 1852, and purchasing land in Noble Township, commenced making
the farm which has since been his home. Very successful has he been in his business affairs and at one time he
owned one thousand acres of land, but he has since deeded it all to his sons with the exception of one hundred
and seventy acres, comprised in the old homestead. Upon it is a fine residence and all the improvements found upon
a model farm. In connection with the cultivation of his fields, he raises fruit and stock and has a large orchard
of one hundred and five
acres.
In 1890, Mr. Billings was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife, who died in April, and was buried at Freedom
Church. He has since married Rachel Spiegel, of Crittenden, Ky. The children born of the first union are Timothy,
who was born in Indiana, September 6, 1843, married Jane Bateman. and is now living a retired life in Saylor Springs,
Clay County; John, who died in childhood; Catherine, who died at the age of two years; Lewis, Postmaster of Noble;
James, who married Laura Spiegel, and is a merchant of Noble. One daughter has been born of the second union, Ethel,
born December 9, 1892.
Mr. and Mrs. Billings are members of the Baptist Church of Noble. He has served as Justice of the Peace for three
years and has been School Director and Trustee. He cast his first Presidential vote for Zachary Taylor, and was
a Whig until the dissolution of the party, since which time he has been a faithful adherent of the Republican party.
He gives his support to social, educational and moral interests, and never withholds his aid from any worthy enterprise
calculated to prove of public benefit. His wealth has been achieved as the result of hard labor, good management
and well directed efforts, and is but the just reward of a well spent and honorable life. He is held in the highest
esteem throughout the community, and his example is well worthy of emulation.
Portrait and Biographical Record of Effingham, Jasper and Richland Counties Illinois,
Containing Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens, Governors of the State, and the Presidents
of the United States. (Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1887), p.323 - Submitted by Judy Edwards
Christian BOHREN -- was born December 25, 1817, in Switzerland, is the son of Fred BOHREN, who was also born in Switerland, and who died when Christian was small. The latter was brought up by his brother and sister; he learned the carpenter and cabinet-making trade, and in 1849 immigrated to America, stopped at Louisville about three months, and thence moved to St.Louis. In the fall of 1849, he came to Olney, where he has since lived, and has followed his trade;the past fifteen years he has been engaged in farming. He owns twenty-five acres in the city where he resides, also a store building, which he rents. He was married, February 27, 1852, to Susan VAN ALMAN, who was born in Switzerland. He has two daughters by his first marriage-Anna, wife of Christ. YORKE, and Susan, wife of Christ. HAZLEN.
John BOHREN, blacksmith, born in Switzerland, January 2, 1844, is the son of John and Elizabeth (KNOOSE) BOHREN, both born in Switzerland. They immigrated to Richland County in 1852. The father was a shoemaker, and died in Olney, December 15, 1879. Mr. BOHREN, in 1865, began learning blacksmithing with the O & M R.R., and worked for that company seven years, after which he began business for himself, and has followed it ever since. February 2, 1865, he married Rebecca NUDING, daughter of Jacob and Suan (TOBIAS) NUDING. She was born in Ohio, February 8, 1845. Five children have been born to them, John, George J. Charles F., Lydia and Laura. Mr. BOHREN is a member of the A.O.U.W., and the Select Knights, and politically he is a Republican.
W.B. BOLDING -- postmaster at Noble since November, 1880, is a native of hardin County, Ky, born in 1819,, and is the sixth of eight children of William and Elizabeth (ALPHIN) BOLDING; the former a native of Virginia, the latter of South Carolina. William BOLDING was a methodist minister, and died in Coles County, Il in 1840, and Mrs. BOLDING died in this county about 1858. Our subject remained in Kentucky until he was thirteen years old, at which time his parents came to this state, and settled in this county; he received but very little education. In 1840, in Coles County Il, he married Miss Nancy, daughter of Daniel DRAKE, a pioneer farmer of said county. Some time after his marriage, Mr. BOLDING engaged in merchandising in Iowa. He was a school teacher from 1838 to 1847. He remained in Iowa twenty-six years, when he removed to Crawford Co, Ill, and engaged in the management of a grist-mill for two years, then, in 1875, located to Olney, where he embarked in the hotel business, then farmed for a time, and finally located in Noble, and gave his attention to merchandising. Mr. Bolding has given much attention to politics, he served three terms as Justice of the Peace in Iowa, and as Supervisor of Crawford County one year, he was also in the Government service in Iowa, as Postmaster, from 1835 to 1857, and as deputy Marshal, in 1860. Mr. and Mrs. BOLDING are members of the Universalist Church, and the parents of eleven children--Elizabeth, J. William, R. John, L. Parmelia, James M. (deceased), and Charles W. (deceased), Daniel D, Alice M., Erastus M., Clara E., and S. Dora.
William BOURELL -- was born August 12,1819, in Northumberland County, Penn, and there lived till the age of fourteen, when the family moved to Butler County, Ohio. In 1842 he married Ann E. SCHROYER, of Butler County. She died in 1869, age fourty-one years, the mother of five sons -- John F, George E., Joseph N., Thornton A., and David W., all born in Ohio. Mr. BOURELLS's second marriage, in 1871, was to Mrs. DOWENS, of Coshocton County, Ohio, formerly Lydia THOMPSON. Mr. BOURELL carried on farming in Ohio till coming to Richland County. He now owns a farm, where he resides, of fifty-two acres, which is improved, with a fine orchard of twenty-five acres. Part of this orchard is eleven years old, and is one of the finest in the county. Last year he sold from this orchard over $1500 worth of apples. This year he sold $1000 worth, and has still on hand about $400 worth. His principal apple is the "Ben Davis," although he raises different varieties.
Henry L. BOWER -- born July 14, 1834, in Ashland County Ohio, is the son of P.P. BOWER, who was born in Germany. At the age of seven, he came with his father to Richland County, learned the coopers' trade in Olney, and followed this til 1862, when he enlisted in Company B, Ninety-Eighth Illinois (Mounted) Infantry, and served till the end of the war; he then went to Clay City, and worked at the coopers' trade two years; he then removed to Alton, where he worked two years; then returned to Olney, and continued at his trade for about two years; since this time he has been engaged in farming; also the past three years the milk business. He owns 10 acres in Section 9, where he now lives. He was married in 1861, to Caroline HOWLAND, who was born in Ohio, and who died in 1867, aged thirty-two years, leaving two sons. His second marriage, in 1868, was to Mary E. EDWARDS, who was born in Edwards County, Illinois. This union was blesses with one son.
Hon. William BOWER, druggist and cigar manufacturer, was born in Olney, Ill,
May 21, 1842, and was the second person born within the limits of the village after it was laid out. He was the
second child born to Philip P. and Mary (DUNDORE) BOWER, the former a native of Germany and the latter of Pennsylvania,
but of Swedish and German descent. At the age of twenty years Philip P Bower emigrated to this country, first settling
in Pennsylvania. In 1840 he came to Illinois and settled in what is now Olney, where for many years he followed
the trade of cabinet-maker, operating at the same time a large farm. In 1856 he engaged in merchandising, at Olney,
but after many years retired to his farm, where his death occurred in teh autumn of 1873, at the age of sixty-nine
years. He was one of the most prominent pioneers of Richland County. He and his wife were both members of the Evangelical
Church, to which church and its schools he was a large contributor, providing in his will for the building of the
present church structure of that denomination, one of the finest in teh city. William Bower, our subject, received
a fair common school education in his youth. Afterward he attended school at the old log schoolhouse (still standing)
of Olney, and finished his education at the Olney Seminary. His mother died in 1856, shortly after which event
he left home, and commenced for himself as a teacher. He next commenced the trade of marble-cutter; after a few
months' experience he engaged as an apprentice at watch-making, but never finished the trade. He then served an
apprenticeship of two years at the tinners' trade. In the spring of 1861, he enlisted in the Eighth Illinois Infantry,
for three months' service. On his return home he taught a six months' term of school, and in the spring of 1862
he re-enlisted in Company I, Thirty-Eighth Illinois Infantry, and participated in all the engagements of the regiment
until October, 1863, when he was taken prisoner, paroled and sent home. He was never exchanged, but after the close
of the war received his honorable discharge. In the fall of 1863 he engaged in teh drug trade, and by industry
and energy, has built up a large business. During the last seven years he has been extensively engaged in the manufacture
of cigars. He is also the agent of the Standard Oil Comany, at Olne. He carries a stock of from $12,000 to $15,000
of goods, and his annual sales, in all departments, amount to from $50,000 to $60,000. In 1876, Mr. BOWER was nominated
by the Democratic Convention for Representative in the Legislature. This he however declined, and accepted the
nomination on the Greenback ticket for the State Senate. Two years later he was again nominated for the Legislature
by the Democrats of the Forty-Fourth District, and carried the district by a large majority. He was an active member
of the Thirty-First General Assembly, where he originated some important measures. On November 29, 1864, Mr. BOWER
was married to Sarah E. RIDGEWAY, a daugher of Dr. E.W. RIDGWAY, of Olney. Four children have been born to them,
three of whom are still living. Mr. BOWER belongs to no church, but is a member of the A.F. & A.M., of the
A.O.U.W., and of the G.A.R.
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HON. WILLIAM BOWER, the pioneer druggist of Olney, is a native-born citizen of this place, and a son of Philip
Peter and Mary (Dundore) Bower, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this work. Our subject is the second male
white child born within the limits of this city, the date of his birth being May 21, 1842. He received his education
in the public schools of his native village and in Olney Seminary. In 1857 his mother died and soon thereafter
he left home, beginning -life for himself. Having acquired a fair education, he engaged in teaching school. Later
he served a regular apprenticeship to the tinner's trade with K. D. Horrall, of Olney, working for $3, $4 or $5
per month.
Before the expiration of his term of apprenticeship, Mr. Bower enlisted for the late war on the 14th of April,
1861, as a member of Company B, Eighth Illinois Infantry. He responded to Lincoln's first call for three months'
troops to defend the Union, and enlisted on the first day that enlistments were made for the late war. Col. Oglesby,
afterward Governor of Illinois, was the commander of his regiment. He served the term of his enlistment, after
which he returned home and taught school and worked at his trade until the spring of 1863, when he joined Charles
Shultz as sutler clerk and went to the front. He was captured in the battle of Chattanooga, but was held prisoner
only a few days, when he was paroled and sent North.
In October, 1863, Mr. Bower bought a stock of tinware and carried on this business until December following, when
he sold out and engaged in the drug business with Dr. E. W. Ridgway. Fifteen months later he purchased his partner's
interest and has since continued the business alone with marked success. He is now the oldest druggist in years
of continuous trade in Richland County, and the second eldest business man in years of uninterrupted dealing in
Olney.
On the 30th of November, 1865, in Olney, Mr. Bower was married to Miss Sara E. Ridgway, who was born in Mansfield,
Ohio, and is a daughter of Dr. E. W. Ridgway. Four children were born of their union, but only two are now living:
Cattella, now the wife of M. E. Sebree, a train dispatcher, who makes his home in Denver, Colo.; and Ernest Zelledon,
who is with his father in the store. Emma died at the age of four years, and Nina when two years old.
Mr. and Mrs. Bower are members of the New, or Swedenborgian, Church. In politics he is a Democrat, and was elected
by a large majority from the Forty -fourth District as Representative to the Thirty-first Illinois General Assembly,
where he served on the committee of education, printing and militia. He also originated some important measures
and proved an industrious and useful member. Socially, Mr. Bower is a Royal Arch Mason, a member of Olney Lodge
No. 140, A. F. & A. M.; and Richland Chapter No. 38, R. A. M. He also belongs to Richland Lodge No. 180, 1.
O. O. F.; and Olney Lodge No. 76, A. O. U. W.
Mr. Bower has a one hundred acre orchard, sixty acres of which are a mile and a-half north of the city and forty
acres about the same distance southward, all planted in apples. The trees in the north lot are two years old, and
those in the south are three. All the trees are thrifty and will soon bear. Both orchards are set out with Ben
Davis apples, those promising the most profitable crop. Mr. Bower also owns his store building, which is built
of stone, is two stories high and is 23x140 feet on the ground floor. He carries a stock from $15,000 to $18,000,
and does considerable jobbing, keeping traveling salesmen on the road all the time. His stock consists of a full
line of drugs and medicines, paints and oils, wall paper, books and fancy goods. By judicious management and fair
dealing, Mr. Bower has built up an extensive, still increasing business, and has accumulated a valuable property.
He is recognized as one of the most enterprising and successful business men of Olney, and is highly esteemed and
respected by his fellow-citizens and by all with whom he has business or social relations.
Portrait and Biographical Record of Effingham, Jasper and Richland Counties Illinois,
Containing Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens, Governors of the State, and the Presidents
of the United States. (Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1887), p.348 - Submitted by Judy Edwards
Eli BOWYER, M.D., ex-Brevet-Brigadier-General, Postmaster at Olney, Ill, was born in Warren County, Ohio, March 20, 1818, and is the third of nine children born to John and Jane (SHEPLER) BOWYER, the former a native of Virginia, and the latter of Pennsylvania. The BOWYERS were of English and German, and the SHEPLERS of English, Scotch and Irish descent. The BOWYERS in America are descended from an old English family who settled in Rockbridge County, Va, in the early colonization of the state. John BOWYER received a good common school and academic education in youth. When only a small lad he removd with his parents to Pennsylvania, and while he was yet a young man, in 1802, the family removed to southwestern Ohio. John finally settled in Warren County, Ohio, where he bought a body of unimproved land, erected a cabin, and subsequently improved a farm. He he resided until his death. Eli BOWYER, the subject of our sketch, received the major part of his education at the Harveysburgh Academy, in his native county. On leaving school he commenced life as a teacher, and continued in this avocation for two years. He then began the study of medicine with Dr. J. G. PAULDING, of Warren County, and continued his medical studies for a further period of eighteen months, under the instruction of Prof. Jesse P. JUDKINS, of Cincinnati. He attended lectures primarily at the Willoughby University, and finally at the Ohio Medical College, in Cincinnati, where he graduated in 1844. He then commenced the practice of his profession at Mason, Warren County, Ohio, where he resided during the following two years. At the expiration of that time he removed to Prairieton, Ind, and was professionally engaged in taht city for seven years. From Prairieton he removed to Sullivan, in the same state. Here he remained for seven years, when he was again compelled to change his location, on account of failing health. In 1860, he came to Olney, Ill, where for several months he relinquished the practice of medicine. In 1861 he entered the United States Army as Assistant Surgeon of the Eleventh Missouri Infantry, which was composed principally of Illinois volunteers. In 1862 he was made Division Surgeon, under Gen. PLUMMER, by order of Gen. POPE. Subsequently he was comissioned Major, then Lieutenant-Colonel, and finally, after the battle of Vicksburg, Colonel of the regiment. He entered upon his duties as a commanding officer without previous military training, but by diligent study, although almost constantly in front of the enemy, he became proficient in the art. In March, 1865, he was brevetted Brigadier-General, by President JOHNSON, as stated in his commission, "for gallant and meritorious service." He participated in all the principal battles in which the Army of the Southwest was engaged. Among them were the sieges of Vicksburg, Jackson, New Madrid and Island No. 10, the battles of Corinth, Iuka, and Nashville, where he was wounded in the left arm and left leg. He was mustered out with his regiment, in January, 1866, at Saint Louis, Mo. His patriotism, bravery, and ability as a commanding officer, are abundantly attested by his high testimonials from such officers as L.F. HUBBARD, D.W. MAGEE, John McARTHUR, A.J. SMITH and J.A. MOWER. After the close of the war he returned to Olney, where he resumed the practice of his profession. In 1867 he represented the counties of Clay and Richland in the State Legislature. In 1870 he was appointed one of the trustees of the Southern Normal University, and officiated as president of the Board. In December, 1879, he was commissioned postmaster at Olney, which position he still holds. The Doctor was married in October, 1844, to Martha A. COX, a native of Warrent County, Ohio. Two daughters blessed their union, viz.: Mary J. and Emma K. (now Mrs. H.C. LUDERS of Philadelphia). The elder daughter, Mary J. was a graduate of the Ohio Female College, but died three years after receiving her degree, from injuries received during a fire at that institution. Both the Doctor and his wife are members of the Presbyterian Church. He is also a member of Olney Lodge, No. 140, A.F. & A.M., Richland Lodge, No. 180, I.O.O.F., and of the G.A.R. In politics he is a stanch Republican, and is one of the representative men, not only of the county, but of the state.
W.O. BOYLE -- saloon keeper, is a native of Brown County, Ohio, was born in the year 1853, and is the son of William and Elizabeth (HIX) BOYLE. William BOYLE was a attorney-at-law, at Georgetown, Ohio, came to Illinois in 1861, and engaged in merchandising in Noble, and also managed a large farm, which he owned, in connection with his practice. Mr. BOYLE read law with Gen. HAMMER, and was a soldier of the mexican war. W.O.Boyle, our subject, came to Noble with his parents when he was eight years old, and here has since resided. November 18,1882, he married Miss Annie MILTON, a native of the State of Indiana, by which union was vouchsafed, to them one child, which is named Harry E. Mr. BOYLE is a generally respected citizen.
John C. BROCKMAN was born in Germany, January 31, 1830, and is the fifth of ten children born to Peter and Anna (GIESCHEN) BROCKMAN, both natives of Germany. Peter Brockman was educated and married in Germany, where in early youth he learned the carpenters' trade, and followed the same all his life. John C. BROCKMAN, our subject, received a fair education in the common schools of Hanover, Germany. In early life he learned the carpenters' trade with his father. In 1848 he emigrated to the United States, first settling at Saint Louis, Mo, where he followed his trade for some eighteen months. He was then employed as a salesman in a drug, and then in a grocery store, for about three years. In 1855, he started a confectionery of his own, in Saint Louis, and continued in that business for one year. In 1856 he removed to Newton, Jasper Co., Ill, where he was engaged in the drug and grocery trade for some six years. During the war he was engaged in teh sutler business, principally with the Army of the Cumberland. After his return he came to Olney, Ill, where he, in company with Mr. David SCOTT and Mr. Theodore SCHIFFERSTINE, engaged in general merchandising, under the firm name of SCOTT, SCHIFFERSTINE & Co. After about seven years, Mr. SCHIFFERSTINE retired, since which time the business has been conducted under the firm name of SCOTT & BROCKMAN. They carry a large and well-selected stock of dry goods, hats and caps, boots and shoes, clothing, groceries, provisions and queensware, and are doing an extensive business. Mr. BROCKMAN was for one term County Treasurer of Jasper County, Ill, and is at present a member of the Board of Supervisors of Richland County. He was married in 1854, to Johanna GRENINGER, a native of Switzerland. Five children have blessed their union, only three of whom are yet living. Mr. BROCKMAN's family are of the Catholic faith. He is a member of the A.O.U.W. In politics he is a Republican, and is one fo the prominent and leading business men of the city and county.
Absalom BROWN -- pioneer of Richland County, was born in Franklin County,
Tenn., August 27, 1822, and is the son of John nd Phoebe (McCOY) BROWN, is the third of seven children, and is
of German-Scottish lineage. The parents of Mr. BROWN were natives of North Carolina, and in early childhood were
taken to Tennessee and were there married and lived until 1828, when they emigrated to Edwards County, Il and remained
there two years and then came to Richland County, Il and settled in Decker Township, and here our subject has ever
since lived and has been a resident of the Township for more than half a century. When he came to the county, deer
were quite numerous, the wolves and bears troublesome, and the sight of Indians a common occurence. Mr. BROWN is
one of five men who killed a old bear and assisted in catching four cubs in the northestern part of Decker Township
in 1833. The paternal grandfather and the father of Mr. BROWN were both soldiers in the war of 1812. Mr. Brown
was married, December 23, 1849, to Lucinda SMITH, a native of Kentucky. To this union have been born seven children.
Our subject has been a life-long Democrat, and has served as Justice of the Peace, of Decker Township, for a number
of terms. In 1866, he lost by fire his residence, a good two story frame. Mr. BROWN has long been one of the enterprising
men of his neighborhood and is one of the frontiermen of the county.
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ABSALOM BROWN, the oldest resident of Decker Township, Richland County, resides on section 1, where he has
followed farming for many years. The sketch of this pioneer well deserves a place in the history of his adopted
county, and with pleasure we present it to our readers. A native of Tennessee, he was born in Franklin County on
the 27th of August, 1822. His father, John Brown, was born in North Carolina, and when a young man went to Tennessee,
where he met and married Phoebe McCoy, a lady of Scotch descent. He participated in the War of 1812, and served
under Gen. Jackson at the battle of New Orleans. His life work was that of farming. In March, 1828, he emigrated
to Edwards County, Ill., where he spent two years, and in 1830 came to Richland County, although it was then a
part of Clay County. From the Government he entered three hundred and twenty acres of land on the edge of Fox Prairie,
where he lived until August, 1843, when, thinking the country was too thickly settled, he went to Missouri to look
for another location. He never returned, and it is thought that he was killed by the Indians. His wife died on
Christmas Day of 1874, at the age of eighty-four years. Both were members of the Baptist Church.
The children of the Brown family were as follows: David M., who died in Kentucky in 1845; Lucinda, who died in
November, 1864; Absalom of this sketch; Jo, a farmer of Decker Township, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this
work; James M., who occupies the old homestead; Jemima, who is the widow of Isaac Anderson, and lives near the
old homestead; and Rachel M., who was born in this county in 1830, is the widow of Jackson Shelby, and now resides
in Edwards County.
Absalom Brown spent the first nine years of his life in his native State, and then came to Illinois. He was early
inured to the hard labor of developing a new farm. He made a wooden mould-board for the plow, and did other work
common to the frontier. The nearest mills were at the Big Wabash, and there were only three settlers living on
the prairie. Wild deer roamed around at will, and he has hunted on the site of Olney. Amid such surroundings, engaged
in the hard labor of clearing and developing land, Mr. Brown spent the days of his boyhood and youth. He remained
at home until he was twenty-seven years of age, aiding his mother in the care of the family.
On the 23d of December, 1849, in Decker Township, Mr. Brown was united in marriage with Miss Lucinda Smith, a native
of Kentucky, and a daughter of Joseph and Mary (Fryman) Smith. The young couple began their domestic life upon
the farm which is still their home, although it then comprised only forty acres, and to its cultivation Mr. Brown
has since devoted his energies with the exception of a few short periods. In 1859, he went to Pike's Peak, making
the journey with ox teams. In 1879, and again in 1884, he went to southwest Missouri for his health. He now owns
ninety-five acres of land under a high state of cultivation, and the place with all its improvements is as a monument
to his thrift and enterprise, for it has all been acquired through his own efforts.
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Brown were born eight children: Mary M., wife of Merrill Klingensmith, of Decker Township; Isabel,
who became the wife of John Smith, and died leaving three children, who now live with their grandparents; Joseph
F., a hunter and fisher in Arkansas; Louisa, Mrs. French, of Jacksonville, Ill.; Sarah, who died in Texas; Susan,
now in Idaho; John, who died in childhood; and Luella, in Salt Lake City. The children were all born and reared
on the home farm and educated in the public schools.
Mr. Brown is an active member of the Farmers' Mutual Benefit Association, and his wife belongs to the New Light
Baptist Church. He cast his first vote for James K. Polk, and has since been a supporter of the Democracy. He served
one term as Constable, and for nine years held the office of Justice of the Peace. His duties of citizenship he
has ever faithfully discharged, and has ever borne his part in the work of upbuilding and developing the county
which has so long been his home. Few in the county have longer resided within its borders than our subject, who
has been identified with its history since the days of its early infancy.
Portrait and Biographical Record of Effingham, Jasper and Richland Counties Illinois,
Containing Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens, Governors of the State, and the Presidents
of the United States. (Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1887), p.229 - Submitted by Judy Edwards
John BROWN -- was born July 10, 1819, in Hamilton County, Ohio. When eight years old, his parents moved to Kentucky, where he remained until 1855, when he came to Madison Township, Richland County, and settled on the farm where he now lives. He owns 160 acres of land, well improved, with good buildings and five acres of orchard. Mr. BROWN was married, in 1840, to Elizabeth SERREN, also of Hamilton County, Ohio. Two children have been born to them.
EARLY BEADLE was born February 22, 1848, in Lawrence County, Ill., and was the son of Amos Beadle, who came to Lawrence County when a boy. He first followed stage driving, continued this for several years, and later took up farming, which he continued till his death, which occurred May 27, 1880, aged fifty four years. His father, "William, when young joined the Methodist Church, and engaged in preaching. This profession he followed through life. The subject of this sketch enlisted in 1864 in Company E, Eleventh Missouri Infantry, and served to the end of the war. He participated in the battles of Tupela, Tenn., Nashville, Tenn., siege of Mobile, and others. At the close of the war he returned here, and has since been engaged in farming. He owns one hundred acres of land, which he inherited from his father's estate. Mr. Beadle was married, in 1870, to Maria E. Fenis, of Indiana.
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WILLIAM B. BOLEY was born in Bedford County, Va., July 10, 1811 He was reared on a farm where he was born. His father, Elijah Boley, was a soldier in the war of 1812, and died on his return home. When about nineteen years of age our subject moved to Greenup County, Ky., and followed farming there about four years and then commenced to work at the tanners' trade, which he followed about seven years. He then worked on the farm four years, and also engaged in teaming. In 1856 he came to Fairview, Richland County, remaining only a few months, then settled on Calhoun Prairie, remaining there about fourteen years; thence to the farm which he now owns and occupies, consisting of 210 acres, 120 acres of which are improved. In 1887 he was married to Nancy A. Huckworth, who was born in Bedford County, Va. Six children have been born to them. Their son, Thomas E., is now teaching school and residing here. Their son Elias, at the age of twenty one, enlisted in the Thirteenth Illinois Cavalry in 1868, and died at Camp Douglas, Chicago, on February 22, 1862, from measles contracted in the service and in the line of duty. At the time of his death the loss was deeply felt, as at the time he was the parents' only support.
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WILLIAM E. BOLEY, who since the fall of 1855 has been identified with the growth and upbuilding of Richland County, now carries on farming on section 29, Claremont Township. He claims Virginia as the State of his birth, which occurred on the 1st of June, 1848. His parents, William B. and Nancy Ann (Hack worth) Boley, were also natives of the Old Dominion. The father was a tanner by trade, and in the fall of 1853, when our subject was a lad of seven years, he left his old home and with his family emigrated Westward, his destination being Richland County, Ill. He located in Claremont Township, and established a tannery, which he carried on for several years. He also bought prairie land and opened up a farm, which he cultivated for ten or twelve years, when he traded this farm property for two hundred and foil acres of the old Bunn farm in Bonpas Township, and engaged in its cultivation the remainder of his days. He was called to the home beyond April 7, 1888. His wife still survives him and her seventy-five years have left comparatively hut slight impression upon her, her physical and mental faculties being still but slightly impaired. The family of this worthy couple numbered eight children, five of whom are still living. Elias, who was a soldier of the Thirteenth Illinois Cavalry, died in the service of his country in 1861; Marietta is the wife of John Lucas, of this county; Nancy is the deceased wife of Isaac Harmon; William is the next younger; John is an agriculturist of Richland County; Harriet is the deceased wife of Eugene Mattoon; and George and Edward are both farmers of this community.
We now take up the personal history of our subject, who in his youth had fair school privileges and obtained a good education. He remained under the parental roof until he had attained to man's estate and aided in carrying on the farm. He was married in this county, January 28, 1872, to Miss Elizabeth K. Jones, who was born in Virginia, and is a daughter of S. S. Jones, who came from North Carolina to this State in an early day. The young couple began their domestic life upon a rented farm, which Mr. Boley operated for a year, and then removed to a farm which he had previously purchased, comprising forty acres of raw land. This was a part of the first farm opened up in Bonpas Township. He placed it under a high state of cultivation, made many improvements upon it, and in 1875 traded it for sixty acres of land, a part of his present farm. However, he has since purchased an additional thirty acres, and the greater part of the ninety acres is now within rich and fertile fields. He also owns a tract of fifty acres elsewhere, fenced and cultivated.
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Boley have been born seven children, but Lora, the eldest, died at the age of three years; Hamer, Estella E., Raymond, Eddie and Ross are still with their parents. Ralph, the twin brother of Ross, died when three months of age. Mr. and Mrs. Boley hold membership with the United Brethren Church, in which he serves as Trustee, and take quite an active part in church work. Our subject was formerly a Democrat in politics, but now supports the People's party. In the community where he has so long made his home, he has a wide acquaintance. He has lived a straightforward, upright life and has thus gained the esteem of all with whom business or social relations have brought him in contact.
Portrait and Biographical Record of Effingham, Jasper and Richland Counties Illinois, Containing Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens, Governors of the State, and the Presidents of the United States. (Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1887), p.463 - Submitted by Judy Edwards
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A. J. BRITTON was born in Hampshire County, Va., on January 29, 1829, and removed with his parents to Ohio, in 1832, when a great portion of the southern part of the State was wild and unsettled. He assisted in the clearing of two farms in Ohio. When twenty years of age he joined the Christian Church, and assisted in carrying forward the good work in the erection of meeting houses. On January 20, 1853, he was married to Anor M. Barrow, of Hillsboro, Ohio. She was born on February 4, 1831. Six children have been born to them, viz., Charles A., Amelia J. (now Mrs. H. A. Colvin), Benjamin F., Ollie M., Lydia A., Alexander H. In 1864, Mr. Britton removed to Richland County, Ill., and engaged in farming. He was instrumental in building the church at Fairview, and still continues to be an active worker in the church. He was engaged in Olney, Richland County, a considerable time in the mercantile trade, but depreciation of values and the panic of 1873 caused him to fail in the sum of $16,000. He has since paid this indebtedness, principal and interest. Mr. Britton is emphatically a working man, and, as a Christian gentleman and worthy citizen, is highly esteemed by the community at large.
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W. B. BUNN was born in Wayne County, Ohio, June 3, 1838, and was one of ten children of Rev. Benjamin and Margaret (Hyatt) Bunn, who were natives of Virginia, but emigrated in 1804, soon after their marriage, to Ohio, where they lived until the fall of 1808, when they moved to Illinois, settling in Richland County. During the war of 1812, a fort was erected on Rev. Bunn's farm to protect them from the Indians. The first steam flouring mills in Richland County were built by Rev. B. Bunn, who owns 600 acres of land in this locality. In 1859 he deeded one hundred acres to his son, the subject of this sketch, who erected a cabin upon it. In 1800, W. B. married Sarah J. Smith. One daughter has been born to them. He now owns 200 acres of land, 180 acres improved, with fine dwelling, commodious barns, and other out buildings. Mr. Bunn has been Supervisor of the township two terms, and is now school treasurer, Mr. Bunn has great skill as a hunter, having killed as many as a hundred deer in one year, proving a source of considerable revenue.
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WILLIAM B. BUNN, a representative farmer of Bonpas Township, residing on section 33, has been prominently identified with the history of Richland County for a half-century. He has done much for the upbuilding and development of the community and is numbered among the honored pioneers. A native of Ohio, his birth occurred in Wayne County June 3, 1838. His father, Hyatt Bunn, was born in the same neighborhood. His grandfather, Capt. Benjamin Bunn, was a native of Virginia, and, becoming one of the early settlers of the Buckeye State, bought out an Indian town in 1805 on Jerome Fork. A fort was afterward built at that place, in 1812. Mr. Bunn served as a soldier in the War of 1812 and held a captain's commission. He was a blacksmith by trade and was a regularly ordained minister of The Methodist Church. He came of a family of English origin, which was founded in Virginia during Colonial days.
Hyatt Bunn was married in Wayne County to Betsy Hazzard, a native of Jackson County, Ohio, and a daughter of Rev. John Hazzard, a prominent Methodist minister. For ten years he followed farming in Ohio, and in 1838 became a resident of Lawrence County, Ill., spending several years on a farm near Bridgeport. It was in 1843 that he arrived in Richland County and entered and bought six hundred acres of land, opening up a large and valuable farm, upon which he reared his family and spent his last years. He held a number of public offices and was a valued citizen. With the Methodist Church he held membership and lived an upright, honorable life. He died December 5, 1891, and his wife passed away June 22, 1863.
The Bunn family numbered eleven children, of whom two died in infancy, while nine grew to mature years. The eldest, Margaret Ann, is the wife of G. W. Mowry; Elizabeth is the wife of Andrew Milligan, of Lawrence County; Benjamin W. died in the service of his country during the late war; William is the next younger; Roxanna is the wife of S. O. Leather; Dencey A. is the wife of Silas Leather; Rebecca is the wife of Daniel C. Boram; H. Niles is a farmer of Richland County; and Permelia is the wife of P. R. Fisher.
During his infancy the subject of this sketch was brought by his parents to Illinois, and under the parental roof was reared to manhood. In 1860, he married Miss Sarah J. Smith, a native of Richland County and a daughter of Ella Smith, who came from Pennsylvania to Illinois in an early day. They began their domestic life upon the farm which is still his home and which Mr. Bunn had previously located upon. He cleared and fenced it, built a log cabin and planted an orchard of one hundred and five apple trees. He first owned only one hundred acres, but by subsequent purchase he has extended the boundaries of his farm until it now comprises two hundred and sixty acres of valuable land, under a high state of cultivation and well improved.
In 1892, Mr. Bunn lost his wife, who died on the 9th of February, and was buried in Mt. Olive Cemetery, where a marble monument marks her resting-place. They had one child, Betsy E., who is now the wife of David Fisher, a substantial farmer of Claremont Township, On the 26th of June, 1892, Mr. Bunn was married to Mrs. Fannie Rifner, widow of Sylvester Rifner, and a daughter of Peter and Mary (Brown) Bowers, who are both natives of Pennsylvania but are now residents of Richland County, Ill.
Mr. Bunn has given a home to several orphan children and has aided them in starting in life. His generous impulses and kindly spirit, which have prompted many good deeds, have won him the love and respect of all with whom he has been brought in contact. In politics, he has been a firm Democrat since casting his first Presidential vote for Stephen A. Douglas in 1860. He has taken quite an active part in local politics, and his fellow-citizens, appreciating his worth and ability, have called upon him to serve in several offices of public trust. In municipal affairs he has been especially prominent, having filled nearly all of the various township offices, including that of Supervisor for two years, and of Township Trustee for several years. From the organization of the township in 1859 until 1878, he occupied some official position most of the time, and for nine years assisted in laying out township roads and building bridges. In the last-named year the township was put under county organization, and the County Board appointed Mr. Bunn Chairman of the Township Board and Judge of Elections, which position he held for two years, or until they resumed township organization. In an able manner he has discharged his duties, both public and private, thus winning the commendation of all concerned. Almost his entire life has been spent in Richland County, and those who have known him from boyhood are numbered among his warmest friends, a fact which indicates an honorable, upright career and one well worthy of emulation.
Portrait and Biographical Record of Effingham, Jasper and Richland Counties Illinois, Containing Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens, Governors of the State, and the Presidents of the United States. (Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1887), p.350 - Submitted by Judy Edwards
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JOHN BYERS, farmer, was born in Rush County, Ind., on January 8, 1827. He worked on his father's farm and was engaged largely in teaming, during his minority. At the age of seven years he moved with his parents to Hamilton County, Ohio, where they remained until the spring of 1845, when they removed to Knox County, Ind., twelve miles from Vincennes, where his father bought a farm of 130 acres, on which he worked until he had attained his majority. His father gave him nothing but good advice when he commenced life for himself, and, following his parent's counsel, his life efforts have resulted in pleasant surroundings and a comfortable and happy home. He first leased a small quantity of land and engaged in farming and flat boating. In the autumn of 1852 he came to Richland County and entered 137 acres of land, then a wilderness, but now a farm which will compare favorably with any in the township, as to buildings and improvements. A fine house, which he built during the war, on January 20, 1880, was entirely destroyed by fire. The house cost $1,800; insurance $900. His present residence cost $1,600; his barn, 40x58, cost $700; machine house and other buildings cost $150. His farm is stocked with seven head of horses, twenty five head of cattle, thirty sheep, etc. Mr. Byers has held the office of Justice of the Peace for twelve years; was on the County Board of Supervisors from 1853 to 1866. During the war he was appointed one of three commissioners to raise the bounty war fund, and go to Springfield and pay the soldiers who were mustered into the service. On September 28, 1854, he was married to Rebecca Boyd, of Knox County, Ind. Six children have been born to them, viz.: Mary M. (now Mrs. Curry) Harriet E. (now Mrs. Clodfelter) John B., Clara A., Mattie L. and Luther P. Mr. Byers is a man who keeps himself well informed in the affairs of the day; and as to honesty and integrity, no man in the county has a better standing. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he is a Democrat
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JOHN LYTOR BYERS, one of the most prominent and progressive farmers of Richland County, residing on section 6, Bonpas Township, located here in 1854. In 1852, he entered one hundred and thirty-seven acres of his present farm, and now has in his possession the deed to the same, signed by President Franklin Pierce. This tract of land has never been sold, mortgaged or transferred in any way since that time. The Byers farm now comprises three hundred and eighty-seven acres of valuable land, about three hundred of which are under a high state of cultivation, and yield to the owner a golden tribute in return for the care he bestows upon them. There are also many good buildings and other improvements.
Mr. Byers was born in Rushville, Ind., January 8, 1827, and is a son of Philip and Mary (Gwinup) Byers. The father was born near Lexington, Ky., in 1798, and the latter in Redstone, Pa., March 17, 1803. Her father, George Gwinup, a Welshman by descent, served throughout the Revolutionary War as an Ensign. He enlisted in the New Jersey Blues, and took part in the famous battle of Bunker Hill. He was with Gen. Washington at the crossing of the Delaware, the battle of Cowpens, and many other engagements. Being a tailor by trade, he was able to provide himself with somewhat better clothing than most of the soldiers, or at least to keep them in better repair. He took part in the battle of Valley Forge. His death occurred in Carthage, Ohio, at the advanced age of eighty-seven years.
Philip Byers, the grandfather of our subject, received a bullet wound during the Revolution, from the effects of which he died, a short time previous to the birth of his son Philip, the father of our subject. The latter settled in Rush County, Ind., in December, 1826, becoming one of its pioneers. His death occurred near Wheatland, Knox County, Ind., September 7, 1867, and his wife died September 15, 1851. She was for many years a devout member of the Presbyterian Church.
When John L. Byers was a lad of four summers, the family removed to Fayette County, Ind., and three years later went to Colerain, Ohio. After a year they went to Carthage, Ohio, where he attended school for about two months each winter until seventeen years of age. During the remainder of the time he followed farming, for he began plowing when quite young. At the age of nineteen, he accompanied the family to Knox County, Ind., where, on attaining his majority, he began life for himself, assisted only by the good advice and kind wishes of his father. He still made his home with his parents, but carried on farming for himself. In 1852, he first came to Richland County, and being favorably impressed with the appearance of the country, and the healthfulness of the climate, on his return he bought a land warrant to a quarter-section given by the United States Government to a veteran of the Black Hawk War. He paid $150 for the same and entered the homestead as above stated. In 1854 he built a log cabin, 16x18 feet, and took possession of it. The lumber used for the doors, sash and floor he brought by team from Indiana. Soon after he brought his bride hither, and the young couple began life in true pioneer style. If some of the modern conveniences were lacking, they possessed courage and hope for the future.
Mr. Byers' present farm was then an unbroken forest, except that some of the best timber had been appropriated by settlers on the neighboring prairie. He cleared and fenced twenty acres the first season, planting fifteen with corn. Deer, wolves and other wild animals were numerous, and there were many hardships and trials incident to frontier life to be endured. By untiring industry and perseverance, Mr. Byers transformed his unimproved land into one of the most excellent farms in the County. In December, 1880, his fine farm house and a part of its contents were destroyed by fire. Only a portion of it was covered by insurance. In 1881, he built another commodious residence, one of the most comfortable and attractive farmhouses in the county. It was destroyed by fire on the 22d of May, 1893, and he is preparing to re-build. He also has a large barn, 40x60 feet, with an addition 24x36 feet, a tool house, granary and other outbuildings. Ten acres of his land have been planted with fruit trees, and he now has a good orchard. In connection with general farming he feeds considerable stock for market, and also breeds some fine horses.
As a companion and helpmate on life's journey, Mr. Byers chose Miss Robenia, daughter of John T. Boyd, of Knox County, Ind., who settled there in 1833. He was a native of South Carolina, and was of Irish descent. He married Christina Arne, who was born in Virginia, of German parentage, and died February 18, 1885, at the age of seventy-seven y ears. Mr. Boyd's death occurred in 1877. Mrs. Byers was born in Wythe County, Va., March 8, 1829, and was one of seventeen children, fourteen of whom grew to maturity. Mr. and Mrs. Byers have six children: Mary M., wife of 1). S. Curry, of Bonpas Township; Harriet E., wife of J. A. Clodfelter, of the same township; John B., dealer in livestock; Clara A., wife of E. T. Boley, of Bonpas Township; Mattie L., wife of G. Berry, of the same township; and Luther P., who completes the family.
The parents are both members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, with which Mrs. Byers has been connected since twelve years of age, and take an active interest in its upbuilding. Mr. Byers has led a busy life, but has found time to devote to public affairs. He served his fellow townsmen for three years as Supervisor of Bonpas Township, was Highway Commissioner several years, and for sixteen years filled the office of Justice of the Peace. In polities, he is a supporter of the Democratic party. Mr. Byers is truly a self-made man, and by his own well-directed efforts and good management and the able assistance of his estimable wife, he has acquired a handsome competence and is numbered among the prosperous citizens of Richland County. This worthy couple are numbered among the useful and highly respected citizens of the community.
Portrait and Biographical Record of Effingham, Jasper and Richland Counties Illinois, Containing Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens, Governors of the State, and the Presidents of the United States. (Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1887), p.413 - Submitted by Judy Edwards
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CHARLES L. BAILEY devotes his time and attention to agricultural pursuits on section 10, Claremont Township. We wish to add to the history of Richland County the sketch of one of her native sons who is now recognized as one of the enterprising and progressive young farmers of the locality in which he resides. He was. born in Claremont Township, having first opened his eyes to the light of day on the old homestead in November, 1858. He spent his youth upon that farm, and midst work and play his time was passed. He attended the common schools of the neighborhood and is now a well informed man, who keeps posted on all the questions of the day. On the 3d of October, 1884, in Knox County, Ind., occurred an important event in the life of our subject, who on that day was united in marriage with Miss Katie Staunton, who was born in Lawrence County, Ill., and is a daughter of Richard and Mary Staunton. She is a lady of culture and refinement, well educated, and prior to her marriage successfully engaged in teaching. Three children have conic to bless this union: Guy Clifton, Nancy Leila and Nellie May.
Since the death of his mother, Mr. and Mrs. Bailey have removed to the old homestead and he carries on the farm in connection with the operation of his own land. He is a successful farmer, and the neat and thrifty appearance of the place indicates his careful supervision. He exercises his right of franchise in support of the Republican party, but has never been an aspirant for public office. Mr. Bailey and his wife are members of the Christian Church. Their home is the abode of hospitality, they hold a high position in social circles, and throughout the community have many friends.
Portrait and Biographical Record of Effingham, Jasper and Richland Counties Illinois, Containing Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens, Governors of the State, and the Presidents of the United States. (Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1887), p.440 - Submitted by Judy Edwards
WILLIAM T. BAILEY, a representative farmer of Claremont Township, residing on section 10, is one of the oldest remaining settlers in Richland County, having spent fifty-seven years of his life in this community. As one of the honored pioneers, we present him to our readers. He was born in New Jersey in May, 1822. John Bailey, his father, was born and reared in England, and there married Elizabeth Price. In 1818, he bade good-bye to home and friends and crossed the broad Atlantic to the New World, locating near Great Falls, N. H. He was a fuller and finisher by trade. Having served a seven-years apprenticeship, he followed that business in England, and also for a number of years in Great Falls. On leaving the old Granite State, he took up his residence in Taunton, Mass., where he worked at his trade for eight years, after which he journeyed Westward. His destination was Vincennes, Ind. and from there he came to what is now Richland County in 1836. The county was not then organized, the greater part of the land was still in the possession of the Government, and the work of civilization and progress seemed scarcely begun. Mr. Bailey entered land, which he transformed into a farm. It was located about two miles from the present village of Claremont, and there he and his worthy wife spent their remaining days, and when called to their final rest their remains were interred on the old homestead.
In the Bailey family were three sons and three daughters, who grew to mature years and became heads of families. Only two are now living, however: Charles, who was born in England, and is the eldest of the family; and William. The latter came with his parents to Illinois when a lad of thirteen. He remained with his father until he had attained his majority, after which he began to earn his own living by driving a stage. He was thus employed for three and a-half years, and then, renting laud, engaged in farming for a year. In this county on the 5th of January, 1854, he married Miss Nancy Crapper. a native of Kentucky, born in 1820. Her parents, James and Mary (Dockens) Crapper, came from Kentucky to this county in 1840. After his marriage, Mr. Bailey located on the farm which he has since made his home. A small log cabin and a few acres of cleared land comprised the improvements upon the place, but with characteristic energy he began development and his earnest labors soon wrought a wonderful transformation. He built a good substantial hewed-log house, cleared, broke and fenced his land, and placed nearly the whole of one hundred and twenty acres under cultivation, he has since built a substantial frame residence and made other good improvements, and extended the boundaries of his farm until now two hundred and sixty acres pay tribute to the care and labor he bestows upon it.
In 1893, Mr. Bailey was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife, who died on the 28th of January, at the age of seventy-three years and eleven months. For thirty-nine long years she had proved a true and faithful helpmate to him, and was a lady of many noble traits of character, which won her the love and esteem of all. Two sons were born of their union: Henry C., who holds a responsible position with the Western Union Telegraph Company, and resides in La Fayette, Ind.; and Charles L., whose sketch we give below.
In politics, Mr. Bailey is a Republican. He has been identified with that party since its organization, having voted for John C. Fremont in 1856. Previous to that time he was an old-line Whig. The best interests of this community have ever found in him a friend, and he has done all in his power to advance those enterprises calculated to promote the general welfare. He has done effective service in the interest of schools during the several terms that he has served as a member of the School Board. He has not only been an eye-witness of the growth of Richland County, but has aided in its development. He is well known throughout the community, and his straight forward and upright life has won him the confidence and high regard of his many friends, whom we feel sure will receive with pleasure this record of his life.
Portrait and Biographical Record of Effingham, Jasper and Richland Counties Illinois, Containing Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens, Governors of the State, and the Presidents of the United States. (Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1887), p.440 - Submitted by Judy Edwards
PROF. OSEI J. BAINUM, Superintendent of the Olney public schools, is a native of Richland County, Ohio. He is the son of a well-known clergyman, the Rev. Dr. Bainum, who has held pastorates in Cleveland (Ohio), Indianapolis and Greencastle (Ind.), and now spends a few of his riper years as pastor of the Presbyterian Church of Bement, Ill.
When Prof. Bainum was young, he enjoyed the advantages of the public schools of the city of Cleveland, which were at that time regarded as being in the front rank of the best in the land. Here he advanced through the regular grades until he had entered the first year of the High School. His father at this time having removed to Indianapolis, Ind., he was placed for a year in the Northwestern Christian University. A little later he entered the State Normal School, at Normal, Ill., and was duly graduated therefrom in 1878, after having gained quite an experience in teaching various schools during the time he was a student in the Normal University. Two years after this graduation, Prof. Bainum became Principal of the Olney High School, he having already gained a reputation as an enthusiastic and successful teacher while in charge of the schools of Calhoun and Fairview, Ill. After abundant proof of his rare qualifications, both as a teacher and as manager of educational affairs, he closed his five years of service in the High School to become Superintendent of the Olney public schools.
Such have been the skill and success with which these schools have been managed that our subject has been continued therein from year to year until the present time, 1893. Thirteen years in the two positions combined have been given to this service in the city of Olney. During these years many young men and women have been graduated under his eye and care, and have gone forth to various professions and fields of usefulness. Under his efficient administration, always sustained by the worthy citizens on the Board, Olney 's public schools have advanced to the very front rank of schools in the State. Olney has reason to be proud of her educational institutions and facilities. A large, fine brick building has been furnished with all the best modern appliances. Apparatus for illustrations in chemical and physical science, electrical illustrative fixtures, and a chemical laboratory, are among the many additions, together with a geological collection of several thousand specimens. The primary department is supplied with the modern kindergarten devices, and the intermediate grades with abundance of maps, charts and supplementary reading matter.
To their appreciation of Prof. Barnum's educational work, the people of Olney continue to testify from year to year by re-employing him at increased remuneration. The school now enrolls about twelve hundred pupils in all the grades, including eighty in the High School, over which Mr. L. W. Shryock, himself a graduate, worthily and efficiently presides. The teachers number eighteen, all ladies except the gentleman named above.
Prof. Bainum is of medium height, is slight in person and is never physically strong in appearance. he has a fine, clear mind, and a cultivated literary taste. His marked success as a teacher lies in the ability and energy with which he works; in the full mastery of that which he attempts; in that love of study which he inspires in pupils who come under his immediate care; in the tact and skill with which government is conducted; and, last but not least, in that enthusiastic love of teaching and of those who desire to be taught, which manifests itself most to them who know him best.
Portrait and Biographical Record of Effingham, Jasper and Richland Counties Illinois, Containing Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens, Governors of the State, and the Presidents of the United States. (Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1887), p482 - Submitted by Judy Edwards
FREDERICK BALMER, who owns and operates a farm of one hundred and sixty acres on section 6. Claremont Township, four miles east of Olney, is recognized as one of the enterprising and prosperous agriculturists of Richland County. He has here made his home for twenty-seven years, and is well known. He was born in Switzerland, July 28, 1839. His father, Frederick Balmer, Sr., was also a native of the same county, and there grew to manhood and married. He was a shoemaker by trade, and followed that business in his native land. In 1859 he bade adieu to his old home, and taking passage on a sailing-vessel at Havre, France, on the 1st of November, crossed the broad Atlantic, arriving in New York harbor on the 2d of December. He at once made his way Westward to Indiana, locating in Greene County, where he bought land and engaged in farming for seven years. In 1864 he sold out, and the following year came to Richland County, Ill., where he purchased an improved farm, the same upon which our subject now resides. He here spent his last years, and departed this life on the 9th of December, 1871. His wife, having survived him for many years, passed away November 3, 1890, and was laid by his side in the Lutheran Cemetery, of Olney Township, where a substantial monument marks his last resting-place. The subject of this sketch is the eldest of a family of four sons and four daughters who grew to mature years. Elizabeth, the next in order of birth, is the wife of Pete Hostetter, of Richland County; Margaret became the wife of Peter Mover, and both are now deceased; Anna is the wife of Jacob Schlitt, of Olney; John is a merchant of Sumner, Ill.; Peter operates a farm adjoining that of our subject; Henry died in 1874; and Mattie is the wife of Cliff Bailey, of La Fayette, Ind.
Until the age of seventeen years, Frederick Balmer remained in Switzerland, and enjoyed fair school privileges, but in the English tongue he is almost wholly self-educated. Emigrating to the United States, he joined his father in Richland County in 1865, and aided him in the development of the farm until the death of the latter, since which time our subject has carried it on alone. As a companion and helpmate on life's journey, he chose Miss Sophia Schwab. The lady is a native of Germany, and remained in that country until fourteen years of age, when she came to America with her father, Carl Schwab, who located in Terre Haute, Ind., where the union of our subject and his wife was celebrated on the 18th of November, 1868. Unto them were born five children: Carl, who is employed in the railroad shops in Terre Haute, Ind.; Elizabeth, at home; William Tell, who aids in the operation of the farm; Bertha and Otto. They also lost one son, Oscar, who died in infancy.
After his marriage, Mr. Balmer located on a part of the old homestead which he had purchased of his father. Subsequently he became owner of the whole farm, buying the interest of the other heirs, and his tract of valuable land of one hundred and sixty acres is one of the best farms in this locality. He has built upon it a large barn, a substantial residence, and all the improvements found upon a model farm, and the place is neat and thrifty in appearance, indicating the careful supervision of the owner. We see that Mr. Balmer deserves great credit for his success in life, for he started out to make his own way in the world empty-handed, and unaided has worked his way upward to a position among the substantial fanners of Richland County.
Our subject is an advocate of Democratic principles, and votes with that party on all questions of State and National importance, but at local elections he votes independently, supporting the man whom he thinks best qualified to fill the office. He has been honored with several positions of public trust, including that of Commissioner of Public Highways, in which he served two terms. He has also been School Director and School Trustee for a number of years, and has done effective service toward advancing the standard of schools in this locality. During his long residence in Richland County, he has become widely known as a man of sterling worth and strict integrity, and he and his wife have the respect and esteem of all with whom they have been brought in contact.
Portrait and Biographical Record of Effingham, Jasper and Richland Counties Illinois, Containing Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens, Governors of the State, and the Presidents of the United States. (Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1887), p.461 - Submitted by Judy Edwards
DAVID F. BASDEN, a progressive and public-spirited farmer residing on section 2, Claremont Township, Richland County, has the honor of being a native of this community, his birth having occurred December 1, 1847, on the old homestead in the first brick house of the county. That home was erected by his grandfather, Lott Basden, who was one of the honored pioneers of the community. With his family he came from North Carolina to Illinois, and during his residence here served as one of the fir County Commissioners.
Albert G. Basden, the father of our subject, War born in what is now Lawrence County, Ill., near the present town of Sumner, and came with his father to this county during his infancy. He married Catherine Adams, daughter of Dr. David Adams, one of the pioneer physicians of southern Illinois. The lady was a native of New Albany, Ind. Mr. Basden was the only son in a family of three children, and after his marriage located or the old homestead, of which he became the owner by purchasing his sisters' interests. There he carried on agricultural pursuits, built a nice residence and greatly improved the place. In order to provide his children better educational privileges, he removed to Merom, Ind., but after three years returned to the farm. In politics, he was originally a Whig, but on the dissolution of that party he joined the new Republican party and became a warm advocate of its men and measures. He took quite an active part in local politics and served as a delegate to the county and State conventions. Although never an office-seeker, he was frequently elected to positions of trust. He gave his support to all worthy enterprises, and the cause of education found in him a warm friend. He was one of the Trustees of Union Christian College of Merom, Ind., was a man of strict integrity and sterling worth, and died respected by all who Knew him, November 9, 1889. His wife is still living, and makes her home with her daughter in Sumner.
David is the eldest of a family of four sons and three daughters, who lived to adult age: Lott, who was married and removed to Kansas, living in Winfield until his death, in June, 1890; Elizabeth, the wife of Prof. Patterson, of West Newton, Ohio; Andrew, of Ohio; Abigail, wife of W. F. Hitter, a farmer and fruit-grower of Richland County; William A., who follows farming near Fail-view, Ill.; and Mary, who completes the family. Upon the old homestead farm where his birth occurred, our subject was reared to manhood. His early education, acquired in the common schools, was supplemented by a course in the Union Christian College, and when his education was completed, he secured a position as clerk in Claremont, where he remained for a year. On the expiration of that period he returned to the farm and continued with his father until after he had attained his majority. After his marriage he lived on the old homestead for three years, and then took up his residence upon the farm which has since been his home. When he located thereon it was a tract of raw prairie, but he plowed and planted it and transformed it into rich and fertile fields. He now has one hundred and ten acres of valuable land, which yields to him a golden tribute. His neat and tasty residence, good barns and outbuildings, his orchard and all the improvements upon the place stand as monuments to his thrift and industry, and indicate to the passer-by the careful supervision of the owner.
On the 8th of November, 1870, in Erie County, Pa., Mr. Basden was united in marriage with Miss Margaret A. Ziegler, daughter of the Rev. P. Ziegler, a minister of the Christian Church. She was born in Noble County, Ind., 'and is a lady of superior education. She was a student in Wabash College and in Union Christian College, and prior to her marriage successfully engaged in teaching. By their union has been a son, Alva R., who aids in carrying on the home farm. The parents are both members of the Christian Church, and are people whose many excellencies of character have won them high regard. They hold an enviable position in social circles where true worth and intelligence secure the entrance into good society. In politics, Mr. Basden has been a stalwart Republican since casting his first Presidential vote for Gen. U. S. Grant in 1868.
Portrait and Biographical Record of Effingham, Jasper and Richland Counties Illinois, Containing Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens, Governors of the State, and the Presidents of the United States. (Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1887), p.375 - Submitted by Judy Edwards
PHILIP PETER BAUER, deceased, an honored pioneer of Richland County, who located here in the spring of 1841, was born in Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, in 1804, and was reared and educated in his native country. When twenty years of age he emigrated to America, landing in Philadelphia, Pa. He made his home at first in the Keystone State and was there first married. He lost that wife and was again married, his second wife being Miss Mary Dundore, a daughter of Philip Dundore. She was a native of Lancaster, Pa., and was of German descent.
Mr. Bauer removed with his family to Jeromeville, Ohio, and from there to what is now Olney in the spring of 1841. He was a cabinet-maker by trade and worked at that business for several years, in connection with which he at the same time operated a large farm. In 1856 he sold his farm and engaged in merchandising in Olney, buying out the stock of Henry Spring. The following year his wife died, and in 1858 he sold out his stock of goods and resumed farming in Olney Township, on what is now known as the old Morehouse Place.
Mr. Bauer was married a third time, his last wife bearing the maiden name of Margaret Richart. By his first marriage he had one child, who is yet living, Henry L., who is now a resident of St. Louis. By the second union six children were born, four of whom are yet living. Sarah was the wife of Wesley J. Wolf, and is now deceased; William, the second child, is a druggist of Olney, and is represented elsewhere in this work; Albert is a resident of Danville, Ill.; Philip P. makes his home in Marion, Ind.; and George W. is a druggist of Olney. The other child died in childhood. By the last marriage there were four children, two sons and two daughters, namely: Gideon, who resides on the homestead farm; Minnie, now the wife of Barney Schrefler, of Joliet; Mary, who became the wife of L. E. Reed, of Kankakee, Ill., and is now deceased; and Charlie, also deceased.
Mr. Bauer continued farming until his death, which occurred in August, 1873. In politics, he was a Democrat in early life but later became a Republican. He was an active and influential member of the Evangelical Association and was a widely known and highly esteemed citizen of this community.
Portrait and Biographical Record of Effingham, Jasper and Richland Counties Illinois, Containing Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens, Governors of the State, and the Presidents of the United States. (Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1887), p485 - Submitted by Judy Edwards
JAMES H. BECKETT is engaged in farming and stock-raising on section 15, Noble Township, where he owns and operates one hundred and sixty acres of good land in an excellent location. It is nicely improved, and all the accessories and conveniences of a model farm are there found. The owner is an enterprising and energetic man, and the neat appearance of his place well indicates his thrift. Mr. Beckett was born in Butler County, Ohio, October 24. 1838, and is a son of James and Elizabeth (Hill) Beckett, the former a native of Pennsylvania, and the latter of Maryland. In early life they went with their respective parents to Ohio, where they were joined in wedlock. The grandfather, James Beckett, was born in Ireland and was educated for a Catholic priest, but as he did not wish to enter the priesthood, he ran away from home and came to America, locating in Pennsylvania, where he followed farming. In 1805, he went to Ohio, becoming one of the pioneers of that State. The maternal grandfather of our subject, Reuben Hill, was a native of Maryland, and removing Westward took up his residence in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he followed shoemaking, when the city was but a village. He was a Methodist in religious belief and lived to an advanced age.
James Beckett, Sr., was three times married. He wedded Miss Thompson, of Ohio, and unto them were born four children, but Sarah is the only one now living. She makes her home in Butler County, Ohio. The mother died in 1835. Our subject is one of the eight children born of the second marriage. They are Emma, Ellen, Anna, James H., Robert, George, John and Thomas. All reside near the old homestead in Ohio with the exception of Robert, who is living in Argyle, Iowa, and James. Emma is the wife of David Shellenbarger, of Butler County. Ohio, and Anna is the wife of William Riley, of Hamilton, Ohio. Mrs. Elizabeth Beckett was called to her final rest in 1852. Both Mr. and Mrs. Beckett were members of the Presbyterian Church. For his third wife he chose Miss Mary Ann Weaver, and they became the parents of four children: Frank, who died in infancy; Joseph, Taylor and Lizzie. The father died about 1880, and his widow is now living on the old homestead in the Buckeye State.
Mr. Beckett of this sketch spent the days of his boyhood and youth upon the old farm in Butler County, remaining with his parents until twenty-four years of age. He was then married, on the 12th of March, 1863, to Miss Martha, daughter of Thomas and Jane (Marshall) Nichol, residents of Butler County. They became the parents of five children: May, now the wife of Horace McCollough, station agent at Noble, by whom she has two children, Harry and Walter; Nellie, who died at the age of sixteen years; Frances, wife of Charles Evans, a farmer, by whom she has two daughters, Martha and Jennie; and Bessie and Harry, who are still at home.
After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Beckett came at once to Richland County, and after residing fourteen months in Noble, took up their residence upon the farm that has since been their home. Mrs. Beckett was called to her final rest August 17, 1889, aged fifty years. She was a member of the Presbyterian Church, and her death was deeply mourned by many.
Mr. Beckett is a member of the Masonic fraternity, belonging to Noble Lodge No. 362, A. F. & A. M.; Richland Chapter No. 38, R. A. M.; and Gorin Commandery No. 14, K. T. In politics he is a Democrat, and in 1892 was nominated for the office of Representative, but, this being a Republican district, he was defeated. Pie has served as Supervisor one term, as School Director a number of years, Township Collector three terms, and Road Commissioner fifteen years. He has led an honorable, upright life, has faithfully discharged his public duties and is recognized as a valued citizen of the community.
Portrait and Biographical Record of Effingham, Jasper and Richland Counties Illinois, Containing Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens, Governors of the State, and the Presidents of the United States. (Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1887), p.547 - Submitted by Judy Edwards
CORNELIUS BEEKMAN, a retired farmer living at Noble, was born in Highland County, Ohio, June 10, 1838, and is a son of Robert M. and Susanna (Hoop) Beekman, who were also natives of the Buckeye State. They had a family of five children: Cornelius, Lavissa, Rebecca C., Charity and John, but our subject is the only one now living. The father was a cooper by trade, and followed that business in Ohio for many years. In 1855 he became a farmer of Decker Township, Richland County, where he carried on agricultural pursuits until his death in 1872, at the age of sixty years. He was a soldier of the late war, having served for about six months in Company H, Ninety-eighth Illinois Infantry, after which he was discharged on account of disability. His wife survived him until 1881, when she too passed away. She was then sixty-seven years of age. Both were members of the United Brethren Church. Mrs. Beekman was again married, becoming the wife of Henry Yost, who is still living in German Township.
The paternal grandfather of our subject, John Beekman, was also a farmer. He died at his home in Adams County, Ohio, at the age of eighty-six years. The maternal grandfather, John Hoop, was a native of Pennsylvania, and was of German descent. He served in the Revolution.
Cornelius Beekman has been identified with the life of a farmer since his earliest remembrance. As soon as he was old enough he began work in the fields on his father's farm. He was educated in the schools of Ohio, and after coming to Illinois with his parents he engaged in teaching school for a few years. After his marriage he began farming for himself, and has since continued to follow that pursuit with the exception of the three years which he spent in the service of his country during the late war.
On the 15th of December, 1856, Mr. Beekman married Susanna, a daughter of Jeremiah and Catherine (Bates) Klingensmith, pioneer settlers of Richland County. Six children graced their union, but Jesse M. and Jeremiah, the two eldest, are now deceased. Robert is the next younger. Ida B. is the wife of Wesley Milton, a machinist of Washington, Ind., by whom she has one child, Edna. Maro is now deceased, and Orintha completes the family. Mrs. Beekman, who was a faithful member of the Christian Church, was called to the home beyond in 1874. Our subject has since married Miss Sarah E. Nelson, a daughter of Elijah Nelson, who is now the oldest resident of Richland County. Six children were born unto them, three of whom are now living: Cyrus, Merta and John William. Herbert, Leah and Isabel, the second, fourth and sixth children, are deceased. The mother died August 21, 1890. She too was a member of the Christian Church. Mr. Beekman was again married, March 16, 1893, when Mrs. Nancy Boatman, widow of James Boatman, became his wife.
Prompted by patriotic impulses, on the 8th of August, 1862, our subject joined Company H, Ninety-eighth Regiment of Illinois, and for three years aided in the defense of the Old Flag, participating in the battles of Stone River, Hoover's Gap and the Atlanta campaign. When the war was over he returned to his farm. He began farming with only six acres, but as his financial resources increased, he has added to that until he now owns one hundred and thirty-five acres of good land. He also recently sold forty acres.
When about seventeen years of age Mr. Beekman joined the United Brethren Church, but after about four years he became a member of the Christian Church, with which he has since been identified. His wife holds membership with the same. He belongs to Noble Lodge No. 482, I. O. O. F., and Noble Post No. 252, G. A. R. He is at present holding the office of Collector of Noble Township. He served as Collector and Town Clerk of Decker Township for several years, for eleven years was School Trustee, and for many years has been School Director. In the discharge of his public duties he has always manifested a promptness and fidelity that have won for him high commendation. He is a friend to all educational and moral interests, and whatever tends to improve or benefit the community is sure to receive his hearty support and co-operation.
Portrait and Biographical Record of Effingham, Jasper and Richland Counties Illinois, Containing Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens, Governors of the State, and the Presidents of the United States. (Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1887), p.534 - Submitted by Judy Edwards
JACOB ALVIN BERRY, who now resides on section 4, was born in Bonpas Township, Richland County, September 12, 1858, and is a son of John and Adeline (Haynes) Berry. His grandfather, Jacob Berry, whose sketch is given herein, is one of the pioneers of 1841. His mother was born in Ohio, and with her father, Samuel Haynes, came to Richland County in the same year. His death occurred in Bonpas Township about 1864. The mother of our subject died in 1866. To Mr. and Mrs. Berry were born five children: Harriet A., wife of C. Robbins; Jacob A.; William, who died in infancy; Edwin, deceased; and Charles H., a music teacher of this county.
J. A. Berry spent his boyhood days upon his father's farm, and in the district schools acquired his primary education, which was supplemented by a year's attendance at Westfield College, where he pursued a scientific course. At the age of twenty-one, and before completing his course, he began teaching, and has followed that profession during the winter seasons since. He is not only a well-informed man, but is also an able instructor. During the summer he carries on agricultural pursuits. In 1883 he purchased his present farm on section 4, Bonpas Township, where he has built a comfortable and pleasant residence, also erected other buildings, planted a fine orchard of four acres, etc. He now owns sixty-five acres, all highly improved, and in addition to general farming he breeds Ohio improved Chester-White swine and Jersey cattle. His stock is nearly all thorough-bred.
On the 7th of October, 1883, Mr. Berry was united in marriage with Miss Tabitha M. Zook, a native of Ohio, and a daughter of Jacob Zook, of Olney, who is of German descent. They had two children, but the elder died in infancy. Ora is a bright little maiden of two and a-half years. The parents are both members of the United Brethren Church, and in social circles they hold a high position. Mr. Berry is a member of the Farmers' Mutual Benefit Association, and is a stockholder in the Missouri Guarantee Loan and Building Association. Politically, he is a Republican on questions of national importance, and in local politics he is independent. For four years he served as Treasurer, but has never been an office-seeker. Mr. Berry is recognized as one of the most intelligent and progressive citizens of Bon pas Township.
Portrait and Biographical Record of Effingham, Jasper and Richland Counties Illinois, Containing Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens, Governors of the State, and the Presidents of the United States. (Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1887), p.423 - Submitted by Judy Edwards
JACOB BERRY, who resides on section 4, Bonpas Township, Richland County, is one of the oldest living settlers of this community, and this work would be incomplete without his sketch. He was born in Centre County, Pa., July 5, 1810, and is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Herring) Berry, who were also natives of the Keystone State. The grandfather also bore the name of Jacob Berry, and was probably of German descent. The maternal grandfather, Henry Herring, also came of a German family. He served for six years as a teamster in the Colonial army.
When our subject was two years old, the family removed to Huntingdon County, Pa., and eight years later to Wayne County, Ohio, where he grew to manhood. When a small boy he was accustomed to swing an axe and aid in clearing up the farm, thus being early inured to hard labor. On the 12th of January, 1832, he married Susan Land is, daughter of Samuel Landis, and then turned his attention to farming. In the fall of 1841, he removed with his family to Richland County, Ill., and in 1843 bought a farm on section 10, Bonpas Township. The trip Westward was made by team in frontier style. The land which he bought was an unbroken forest, but he built a hewed-log house and began to clear away the timber. There were bears, panthers and wolves in the neighborhood, and deer and other wild game supplied his table with meats. By patience and perseverance, Mr. Berry cleared and improved a large farm, much of which he has since sold, although he still owns one hundred and twenty acres.
To our subject and his wife were born ten children: Samuel, John, Andrew J.; Jacob L. (deceased); Mary A., the wife of G. Preston; William; Henry, who enlisted in the United States service at the age of eighteen years as a member of Company E, Sixth Illinois Cavalry, and died in the hospital at Memphis, Tenn., June 7, 1864; Sarah J., the wife of G. Jagger; Elizabeth E., who became the wife of H. Weagel, but is now deceased; and Joseph.
Mr. and Mrs. Berry are members of the United Brethren Church. He cast his first Presidential vote for Andrew Jackson in 1832, and was a Democrat until the breaking out of the late war, since which time he has been a Republican. He has served as Collector of Bonpas Township, and was also Justice of the Peace. He has fifty-six living grandchildren, and seventy-five living great-grandchildren, the eldest of whom is seventeen years of age. Although nearly eighty-three years of age, Mr. Berry is still hale and hearty, and performs considerable labor. He cuts all of his own fire wood, and during the past winter he cleared two acres of land. His good health may be largely attributed to his abstinence from intoxicating liquors. He has always been a temperate man, and for over thirty years he has used no liquor in any form. His life has been an honorable and upright one, and his sterling worth and strict integrity command the respect of the whole community.
Portrait and Biographical Record of Effingham, Jasper and Richland Counties Illinois, Containing Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens, Governors of the State, and the Presidents of the United States. (Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1887), p.423 - Submitted by Judy Edwards
JOHN O. BERRY is a member of the firm of Berry & Robards, proprietors of the livery, feed and sale stable of Noble. The record of his life is as follows: He was born in Clay County, Ill., July 28, 1862, and is one of six children, whose parents were Caleb R. and Sarah (Humes) Berry. The paternal grandfather, William Berry, was a native of Virginia, and was of Irish lineage. He came to Illinois about 1833, and was a pioneer of Clay County, locating there when it was almost an unbroken wilderness. The maternal grandfather of our subject, William Humes, was born in Pennsylvania, and was of German descent. In an early day he emigrated to Indiana, and later came to Illinois. He entered a farm in the northern part of Wayne County, and built a house and barn thereon, but both he and his wife died soon afterward.
Caleb Berry was one of the first settlers of Clay County, and in an early day carried the mail from Maysville to Fairfield for some years. He lived upon the old farm from his marriage until the time of his death, which occurred August 15, 1892, at the age of fifty-seven. His wife passed away on the 19th of March previous, at the age of fifty-four years. Both were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The members of their family are: Mary, wife of Jerry Purdom; John O., James, Minnie, Mordica and Rufus.
The subject of this sketch remained quietly upon his father's farm until sixteen years of age, when he left the parental roof to make his own way in the world. Going to Champaign County, he worked by the month as a farm hand for a year, and then took up his residence in Mt. Pulaski, Logan County. Later we find him in Macon County, where he spent the five succeeding years of his life, after which he returned to Clay County. Three years later he came to Noble, and for two seasons operated a gristmill, after which he again resumed farming.
On the 30th of October, 1890, Mr. Berry was united in marriage with Susan Robards, a daughter of John P. and Sophronia J. (Deadman) Robards, who were natives of Kentucky and lived in Louisville for some years. Two children were born of their marriage: Charles M., who died June 9, 1892, at the age of seven months, and Charlotte C., an infant daughter.
After living on his farm for two years, Mr. Berry again came to Noble and formed a partnership with his brother-in-law, Linn Robards. They bought out the livery stable of Travers Brothers, and now carry on business under the firm name of Berry & Robards. They have a good barn, well supplied with everything in their line, and from the public they receive a liberal patronage. In politics, Mr. Berry is a Democrat. He is a man of good business ability, and straightforward and honorable in all his dealings.
Source: "Portrait and Biographical Record of Effingham, Jasper and Richland Counties Illinois, Containing Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens, Governors of the State, and the Presidents of the United States". (Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1887), p. 594 - Submitted by Judy Edwards
Additional Information Submitted by Researcher Julie Berry:
(Note: data has not been verified by Genealogy Trails,
though Julie says her sources are the family bible, along with the original John O. & Susan Robards wedding
certificate, some letters and poems written by these folks, and a note written on the Berry & Robards Livery
stationary, along with a couple of photographs of John O. and Susan Robards...and some 100 yr old (or more) handwritten
notes on family names, births, deaths)
Children of J.O.Berry & Susan O. Robards (they were married October 30, 1890)
- Charles Mortica - b. 10/19/1891; d. 6/9/1892
- Charlotte Courtene - b. 5/31/1893; d. 9/26/1963 (married Harry B. Poff 12/4/1917; no children)
- Virgil Vern - b. 9/11/1894; d. 3/31/1980 (virgil was/is my grandpa) (married Catharine Johnston 5/11/1918; 3 children, with one twin deing at birth)
- Russell Ogden Berry - b. 9/23/1902; d. 1/23/1939 (married Lelah L. Marks; children, yes)
- Robert Evan - b. 2/19/1905; d. 1/17/1985 (married Margaret Graham 11/23/1930; children, yes)
Caleb R. Berry (b. 10/1/1834 in Wayne co., Ill; d. 8/15/1892) married 12/25/1857 Sarah Humes (b. 4/20/1837;
d. 3/19/1892). Caleb & Sarah were married at the home of John Monroe in Clay Co., Ill. by Rev. David Stanford
of the Methodist Church. Their children;
- Mary Ellen - 11/23/1858 - 8/2/1897
- Ida Florence - 1/9/1860 - 5/1/1868
- John Ogden- 7/28/1862 - 7/30/1947
- James Oscar - 4/12/1864 - ????
- Minnie Mildred - 3/17/1866 - 12/7/1899
- Mortica Stanford - 2/8/1868 - ????
- Edith 10/26/1870 - 12/28/1871
- Rufus Warden - 6/29/1875 - 2/14/1894
JACOB L. BETEBENNER, one of the representative farmers of Richland County, residing on section 6, Olney Township, is a native of Maryland, his birth having occurred in Frederick County, on the 8th of January, 1837. His father was also born in the same State, in the year 1801. He was a plasterer by trade, and followed that occupation during his early life. In later years he carried on agricultural pursuits. George Betebenner married Liddie Everhart, who was born in Maryland in 1811, and was of Dutch descent. In the spring of 1859 they emigrated Westward, locating in Olney, but after six months spent in that city removed to Wabash County and purchased a farm, upon which they passed the remainder of their days. The death of the mother occurred December 28, 1877, and the father was called to his final rest December 20, 1886. They were buried side by side in a Lutheran cemetery in Wabash County.
Mr. and Mrs. Betebenner had a family of nine children, five sons and four daughters, of whom eight are yet living, as follows: John, a resident farmer of Crawford County, Neb.; Ann C., who is the widow of Hiram E. Smith, and makes her home in Wabash County; Jacob, of this sketch; Mary, wife of John Xander, a prosperous farmer of Richland County; Benton E., a painter and paper-hanger of Omaha, Neb.; Emma J., wife of David Seibert, who is clerking in a dry-goods store in West Salem, Ill.; Charles F., who is in the West; and Laura E., who completes the family. George died on the 29th of April, 1887.
The subject of this sketch was reared to manhood under the parental roof, living first upon his father's farm in Maryland, then upon the old homestead in Wabash County. In the public schools he acquired a good education. In 1868, he started out in life for himself, and first earned his livelihood by clerking in a store, where he was employed for a year. On the expiration of that period he purchased a farm in Richland County, where he has since made his home.
On the 11th of May, 1889, Mr. Betebenner was united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth Ameter, a record of whose family is given elsewhere in this work, in connection with the sketch of Frederick Ameter. One child graces this union, a son, Albert C., born April 26, 1880. The family resides in a beautiful country home in the midst of a fine farm, comprising eighty acres of valuable land. In addition to the residence there are good barns and outbuildings, and all the improvements found upon a model farm of the nineteenth century. The place is located about three miles west of Olney, and thus the conveniences of the city are easily attainable. The farm is one of the best in the township, and the owner is accounted one of the leading agriculturists. Mr. Betebenner also owns one hundred and twenty acres near by his home farm. He is a member of the Lutheran Church, and his wife belongs to the German Reformed Church. In his political views he is a Democrat, but has never sought or desired the honors or emoluments of public office, preferring to devote his time and attention to his business interests, in which he has met with excellent success. He deserves great credit for his prosperity, for it has been achieved entirely through his own well-directed efforts in the legitimate channels of business.
Portrait and Biographical Record of Effingham, Jasper and Richland Counties Illinois, Containing Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens, Governors of the State, and the Presidents of the United States. (Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1887), p.226 - Submitted by Judy Edwards
JOSIAH WILLIS BLANCHARD, deceased, was one of the leading citizens of Richland I County, and the record of his life well deserves a place in this volume. He was born in this county December 1, 1844, and died on the old home farm November 12, 1892. His father, Henry Blanchard, was a native of Kentucky, and in his childhood came to Illinois with his father, Willis Blanchard, one of the honored pioneers of the community. He early grew to manhood and was three times married, his first wife, whose maiden name was Martha Bunch, being the mother of our subject. Henry Blanchard opened up a farm in Claremont Township and there reared his family.
No event of special importance occurred during the childhood and youth of Josiah Blanchard, who grew to manhood in his native county upon his father's farm. He attended the public schools and remained at home until after he had attained his majority. On the 15th of March, 1877, he was united in marriage with Miss Antoinette Veech, a daughter of Robert Veech, who was one of the early settlers of Illinois. Leaving his home in Kentucky, he removed to Coles County, where he developed a farm. A few years later he located in Mattoon, where he spent his remaining days. Mrs. Blanchard was reared and educated in Coles County and in Mattoon. She attended the Mattoon High School, and was also a student at Olney for one term. For several years prior to her marriage, she was a successful teacher in Richland County.
Our subject and his wife began their domestic life upon part of the old home farm, and throughout his business career he followed agricultural pursuits. He was successful in his undertakings and became the owner of four hundred acres of arable land, one hundred and sixty of which constituted the farm on which he resided. It was all fenced and under a high state of cultivation. It had good improvements upon it, and the neat appearance of the place indicated the thrift and enterprise of the owner. In all his business dealings Mr. Blanchard was upright and honorable, and to that fact, as well as to his industry and enterprise, he owed his splendid success.
In politics, our subject was a stanch Republican but never an office-seeker. He gave his support to all enterprises calculated to prove of public benefit, and was a highly-respected citizen of his native County. A man of sterling worth and strict integrity, he had the respect and confidence of all who knew him, and died truly mourned by a large circle of friends and acquaintances. He passed away November 12, 1892.
Mr. and Mrs. Blanchard had two children: Henry Alexander, who aids in the operation of the home farm; and Sarah Eveline. They also lost a daughter, Levina Pearl, who died at the age of seventeen months, in 1890. Since her husband's death, Mrs. Blanchard has managed the home farm with the assistance of her son. She is a lady of good executive ability and has many warm friends. She belongs to the Christian Church of Eureka.
Portrait and Biographical Record of Effingham, Jasper and Richland Counties Illinois, Containing Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens, Governors of the State, and the Presidents of the United States. (Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1887), p.461 - submitted by Judy Edwards