Cornelius Rousch - deceased, was widely and favorably known as one of the earliest pioneers of Stephenson County, to which he emigrated from Union County, Pa., where he was born May 12, 1826. He was the eldest son of Michael and E. E. (Breon) Roush, of whom mention is made in the sketch of George Roush, which will be found on another page in this ALBUM.

Our subject grew to manhood in his native State, and learned the trade of a tanner and currier in his father's shop. He came West with his parents in 1849, and they located in West Point Township, where Michael Roush entered a tract of Government land, but was mostly employed as a carpenter. Cornelius also worked at carpentering until after his marriage, and then engaged in the dry-goods trade at Louisa four years. Afterward he sold out, and coming to Lena spent there the remainder of his days, first engaging in the grocery trade and afterward adding drugs to his stock. The last few years of his life he was associated with his brother George S. in the flour and feed business, and they also dealt quite extensively in coal. His natural inclination rendered him industrious and frugal, and he spent few idle days until receiving his final summons hence. He died on the 4th of May, 1887, at the homestead which he had established by his thrift and industry, and is remembered as a peaceable and law-abiding citizen, who contributed his full quota toward the various interests of the town. The farm which he purchased lay near the town limits, and a part of it through his enterprise was eventually taken within the corporation. He served as Assessor and Collector, and took satisfaction in noting the gradual development and growth of the country around him.

The wife of Cornelius Roush was formerly Miss Adelia Howard, a native of Jefferson County, N. Y., where she was born April 11, 1829. Her parents, Parker and Louisa (Boomer) Howard, are referred to in the sketch of G. L. Howard given elsewhere. Of her marriage there were born two children, of whom only one, the son, Frederick, is living; Elizabeth, who was born Jan. 13, 1857, became the wife of Albert Shadle, and died May 10, 1886, leaving a son and daughter - Bertha and Harmon, who now live with their grandmother. Mr. Roush politically was a Republican, and socially belonged to Lena Lodge No. 174, A. F. & A. M., also to Lena Chapter. His funeral services were conducted by the Masonic fraternity, and were made the occasion of an imposing and impressive ceremonial.

Years hence, when a future generation shall listen with silent wonder to the tales of the struggles, the toil and the noble lives of the pioneers, and shall view with thoughtful men their pictured faces, that of Cornelius Roush, which is herewith given, will receive it due share of reverent attention, and his name will be held in kindly remembrance.

Contributed by Carol Parrish from Portrait and Biographical Album of Stephenson County, Ill. (1888), p. 398