Charles Consider Graves, Postmaster at McConnell's Grove is also carrying on general merchandising at that point, and is a gentleman generally and favorably known as possessing all the requisites of a useful and valued citizen. During his long residence in this section he has contributed his full quota tot he general welfare morally and intellectually. He is the friend of education, and one of the most devoted members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which he has been Class-Leader, Steward, Trustee and Sunday-School Superintendent for many years. He is little past the prime of life, and capable of many more years of useful labor in the field where he has ever been a cheerful worker and exercised a helpful influence upon all around.

Our subject who was born in the town of Peoria, IL Nov. 12, 1834, is the only son now living of Hon. Hubbard and Syntha A. (Roby) Graves. He was but an infant when he was brought by his parents to this county, where he was reared and educated in the pioneer schools. His first studies were conducted in an old log schoolhouse in Waddams Township, and as soon as old enough, in common with the other boys in that section, his services in the summer season were utilized on the farm. His father, who had been injured while assisting to raise a log house, was unable to do heavy work and Charles became the m ainstay of the family. He continued with his parents until 26 years of age, and wsa then united in marriage, Oct. 25, 1860 with Mary M. Webster, who was a native of Lowell, Mass. and the daughter of Ebenezer and Mehitable (Merrill) Webster, who were natives of the Old Granite State. Her grandfather, David Webster was the son of Col. Ebenezer Webster, of Salisbury N.H. and a brother of Daniel Webster, the great statesman. David Webster after reaching manhood went over into Canada and settled on the shore ofLake Memphremagog, where he spent the remainder of his life, and reared a fine family of sons and daughters. Among these was Ebenezer, the father of Mrs. Graves, who followed in the footsteps of his father and engaged in farming. He was married in Canada and buried his first wife there. Afterward he removed to Lowell Mass. where he was again married and thence removed to North Groton, N.H. He left New England in 1854 and coming to IL located in Winslow Twp. this county, where he spent his declining years. His death taking place Oct. 27, 1875 after he had reached the age of 80 years. His wife, the mother of MRs. Graves, is still living, and resides at McConnell's Grove in the 74th year of her age.

Mr. Graves after his marriage, continued farming in Winslow Twp. until 1861 when he removed to Waddams Twp. and located upon a farm which he occupied 7 years and subsequently took up his abode in Lena, where he engaged in the flour and feed business. In 1877 he established as a general merchant at McConnell's Grove where for the last 10 years he has conducted a profitable business and enjoys the patronage of the best people of that vicinity. He is a Republican, and the fct that he retains his office under a Democratic administration speaks well for his standing among the people.

Mr. Graves and his estimable wife are the parents of two daughters, Annette F. and Myrtle M. who with their mother are members and regular attendants of teh Methodist Episcopal Church. The maternal grandparents of Mrs. Graves were Lemuel adn Hannah (Thing) Merrill, the former a native of Stratton and the latter of Brentwood N.H. They died at North Groton.

Transcribed by Christine Walters
History of Stephenson County 1888 Portrait & Biographical Pg 707