ROAN JOHNSON, proprietor of a finely improved farm of 327 acres in Rock Run Township, is numbered among the well-to-do citizens of that locality, where his thrift and industry have made their indelible mark during the years which he has assisted in developing the resources of the eastern part of Stephenson County. The farm with its appurtenances is delightful to the eye, and without question is the abode of peace and plenty.

Our subject is the descendant of an excellent old Pennsylvania family, and the son of James Johnson who was born and reared in the Keystone State. He followed farming all his life, residing in Franklin and other counties in the southern part of the State, and finally passed his last years in Centre County. The mother, formerly Miss Mary Johnson, was a Pennsylvania lady, whose birthplace is believed to have been near the town of Marietta. It is known that she was there reared and educated, and there the character was formed that rendered her an exemplary wife and mother, and a woman highly respected among her friends and neighbors. She survived her husband a few years, and like him, died in Centre County, both living to see a ripe old age.

Our subject was the youngest son of his parents, and was born in Centre County, Pa., May 18, 1818. He grew to manhood near his native town, and commenced early in life to make his own living. He took unto himself a wife and helpmeet in the person of Miss Betsey Neal, their marriage being celebrated in the spring of 1848. Mrs. Johnson’s parents, John and Elizabeth Neal, were of Scotch and Irish descent, and emigrated to the United States at an early day, settling in Centre County, Pa., where she met and married our subject, and where her parents spent the remainder of their lives. Mrs. J. became a member of the Presbyterian Church in her own country, and was a lady of kindly Christian character and the highest moral principles. She died at her home in Rock Run Township in August, 1880, when nearly sixty-six years of age, her birth having taken place June 7, 1814. Of her marriage with our subject there was born one child only, a daughter, Mary E., who was also baptized in the Presbyterian Church, of which our subject is also a member, and for several years has officiated as Trustee.

Mr. Johnson came to this county in 1850, and purchased 160 acres of land on section 4, in Rock Run Township, which is now included in his present homestead. He added to this as his means accumulated, and also put up the farm buildings which he may be pardoned for viewing with pride and satisfaction. He uniformly casts his vote with the Democratic party, and takes an intelligent interest in events transpiring in the world around him.

Contributed by Carol Parrish from Portrait and Biographical Album of Stephenson County, Ill. (1888), p. 725