Stephenson County IL History & Genealogy

Orangeville Depot

Oneco Township
Stephenson County IL
History of Stephenson Co IL
Western Historical Co. 1880

Oneco Township in the north tier of townships of Stephenson County, is one of the most prosperous and highly productive sections of the State. It contains a large acreage, about equally divided between timber and prairie, with Richland Creek coursing the eastern portion from north to south, and other streams and rivulets, furnishing an abundant and permanent water-power for available use. The early settlement of Oneco Township is somewhat involved in doubt. The effort was made to ascertain to whom was due the distinguished honor of first venturing into the wilderness, at present comprehended within the limits of the township; but, owing to the fact that none of the earlier pioneers of that region survive the march of events, this labor was attended with a success disproportion to the importance of the subject in hand. Simon Davis, it is believed, was among the first to settle in this portion of " Brewster Precinct," he coming about the year 1833. After him, it appears that Andrew Clarno followed. Both of these, it is assumed, had previously made claims in the lead regions, further north and west; but, indifferent success or a desire to engage in agricultural pursuits, influenced them, about the time above designated, to effect a change of base and open farms, the former near the town of Oneco, and the latter in the vicinity of Honey Creek. John M. Curtis also appeared in this vicinity during the same year, and made claim to a tract of land in the vicinity of Oneco.
In 1835, Jefferson and Lewis Van Matre settled one and a half miles west of Oneco, Lewis removing from the lead mines at Galena, and Jefferson coming from Ohio. Morgan Van Matre followed in the footsteps of his brethren a year later, and William Van Matre in 1839, together with Joseph Van Matre.
The year 1836 witnessed a large emigration from the East to all portions of the West, as is well known, and Oneco received considerable additions to her population. Among those who arrived about this time were Alcoa Denio, who settled in the present site of Oneco Village; a Mr. Lott, Duke Chilton, Lorin and Fred Remay. Ralph Hildebrand, Jonas Strohm. and others. Between 1836 and 1838. James. Henry and George Howe were included among the recent arrivals, as also were James Young and Philip and Warner Wells, all of whom opened farms at the head of Long Hollow; Henry Johnson, at the northeast corner of the town: Oliver and John R. Brewster. Ezra Gillett, who erected the mill at Buena Vista ; Joab Morton, identified with the eastern portion of the township : Isaac Kleckner, with the eastern vicinity of the village of Oneco, James Turnbull, who removed subsequently to Winslow; -Father Ballinger. whose son Asa was among the earliest circuit preachers of the Illinois Conference, and others.
The tragic death of one of the Lotts caused no inconsiderable excitement among his neighbors at the time, and is believed to have been among the first deaths, if not the first, to occur in the township.
The Indians occupied camps in various portions of Oneco and Buckeye Townships when their present territories were in that primitive condition in which they were found by the pioneers. They were not particularly demonstrative in acts of hostility or annoyance, yet the first comers experienced some trouble with the impecunious and embarrassed red man. He left his mark on the resources of his neighbors at any and every opportunity, and not unfrequently the mournful notes of a porker broke upon the ear of the settler long after midnight's holy hour. When one of these despoilers of man's happiness and property was discovered in the act. or convicted of crime, he was punished severely : this discipline, together with the gradual settling up of the country, and his departure for other fields, finally relieved the pioneers of these annoyances and his presence.
In 1839. Lewis Gilder removed from Ohio to Oneco Township, settling on Section 18. on the farm at present owned by Judge Alexander Hinds. William Van Matre. as mentioned above, came also, it is believed, in this year, as did Jacob Stroder. Joseph Van Matre, Jr.. and others. William established himself in the western portion of the town, whence he removed to Rock Grove, and Mineral Point. Wis. The following year, it is believed. Isaac Miller settled in the township; also Mike Bolander. Lyman. William and Nelson Hulburt. John Clarno, Joseph Nornsand Seth Schockley. The first marriage of which there are any reliable data, occurred during this year. Henry Rybolt and Lizzie McNear were the felicitous candidates, and Squire Gibler performed the ceremony, at the residence of Jefferson Van Matre. William Van Matres' daughter, who died in 1840. is stated to have been the first interment made in Mount Pleasant Cemetery. Some advise that hers was the first death, but this can hardly be. when the suicide of Mr. Lott is remembered, if the latter occurred in 1838 as is related.
After 1840, emigration became more rapid and generous. The enterprising descendants of those who had built up Pennsylvania and Ohio half a century before, were equally ambitious as had been the parent, to carve out fortune for themselves in the Far West. The growing East afforded too little encouragement to attract them to remain at home, and, prompted by these influences, as also that spirit of thrift, not to say adventure, which predominates throughout the Yankee nation, their " prairie schooners " and pack horses were to be seen daily crowding the trails which were finally lost in the unbroken wilderness of that territory in the direction of the setting sun. With each succeeding year their number increased, and the township under consideration received large accessions to its inhabitants, until the last claim was taken up, and the landscape dotted with the homes of these hardy pioneers. Most of them have gone the way of all flesh—rest from their labors. But their names are preserved among the archives of the past, as among the distinguished few to whom must be attributed the honor of first settling a wilderness, and opening a way for the present prosperity and advanced refinement to be witnessed on every side.
In time villages sprang up in the new township. One of these has become an incorporated town, the objective point toward which farmers and producers living within a radius of many miles, turn for bargain or sale, with the effect of making Orangeville a lively business center, at which an annual business is transacted that would astonish the more pretentious city rival. Oneco Village is scarcely changed, it is said, from what it was nearly forty years ago, and "hardly ever" will. The laying-out and building-up of Orangeville has appropriated the patronage and population at one time lending to Oneco, and the latter remains as it was left when its rival's site was selected a post office center, where the residents of the immediate vicinity congregated to receive their mail, and canvass questions of local or national issue. Throughout the township churches and schools are to be found at nearly every cross-road, and the causes of education and morality are guarded with the same care, and promoted with the same earnestness in Oneco as are the vital interests of life throughout the civilized world.
0RANGEVILLE
An inland village, delightfully located in the southeastern part of Oneco Township, handsomely built, inhabited by an industrious, progressive and enterprising class of citizens, containing a population of from tour to five hundred, and the market town of the section, wherein it is situated, the village does an immense business, and presents a fine field for investment or residence. Orangeville, originally known as Bowersville, owes its immediate origin to John Bowers, though the town site had been partially entered and improve by John M. Curtis, prior to Mr. Bowers' arrival in 18415. About the year 1845, Mr. B. came West, and settled at Walnut Grove. A year's residence thereabout prompted a removal to more desirable fields for permanent settlement, and, after canvassing the surrounding country, he at last selected the present site of the town, where, by entry and purchase, he secured title to 320 acres of ground, including a log cabin, mills (saw and grist), and water-power obtained from Richland Creek.
After a residence at his new home of about one year. Mr. Bowers, regarding the site as possessing many advantages for the purpose, determined to create a town in the. even at that late day, almost impenetrable wilderness. Thereupon, he appropriated fifteen acres of the land purchased, caused the same to be surveyed and platted by Marcus Montelius, and named his venture, as already stated, " Bowersville."
This was in 1849, at which time the brick house on High street, wherein the post office is now kept, is said to have been built. Charles Moore's present residence, a store, presided over by George Hoffman, a blacksmith-shop, built by John Bowers, and occupied by Benjamin Hallman. together with the old Curtis Mills, composed the improvements. The next year, however. Mr. Bowers commenced the building of the present mill, hauling the shingles and better qualities of lumber from Chicago by team, himself acting as driver. The mill was finished the same year at a total cost of about §S,000.
Immediately upon the completion of the survey and the promulgation of the fact that a village was in progress of building, speculators, agents and bonafide purchasers came into the country. Some invested and remained, others departed, promising to return, while others departed without leaving either promises or collaterals to indicate their intentions. Daniel Duck is said to have been the first purchaser of lots in the future town, obtaining that on which is now located the house of Franklin Scott, paying §10 therefor. William Herbert and others came about the same time, and within that decade large numbers of substantial residents settled in the town. Lands were cheap, the village was near Freeport, possessed of valuable water privileges, and other inducements prevailed to meet the popular demand, which found expression in the number of inhabitants who came during the first ten or fifteen years of its existence.
In 1861, the breaking-out of the war caused a large increase in the volume of business done by the merchants, which was materially diminished for some years thereafter, owing to the unsettled condition of affairs throughout the country, the departure of volunteers, and other causes producing similar effects elsewhere. The last half of the decade beginning with 1860. however, witnessed an improved state of public feeling, producing a better market for commodities and correspondingly prosperous times. Orangeville of course participated in these benefits, and so pronounced was the success which attended her development and building-up, that in 186" the village was incorporated as a town, with such prerogatives and privileges appertaining thereto as by law are conferred, including town officers, the following being the roster of those who have held during the years succeeding:
OFFICIAL ROSTER
Trustees.—Charles Moore. President; William Wagenhols. George Erb. W. A. St. John and Jacob Kurtz. Associates. 1867.
1868—Daniel Ream. President: B. H. Bradshaw. William Herbert. Henry Kline and Aaron Boltzer. Associates. William Herbert refusing to serve. W. R. Moore was elected in his stead.
1869—J. K. Bloom. President: D. R. Rubendall. Peter Scheckler. F. Winters and Edward Moore.
1870— William Wagenhals. B. H. Bradshaw. W. B. Moore. W. A. St. John and James Musser.
1871—John K. Bloom. President: Edward Moore. Peter Sheckler. William Trotter and William Potts, Associates.
1872— M. Musser, President; William Sandoe. M. Lanker. John Munich and E. F. Smith. Associates.
March 20, 1873—At a special election holden this day, Orangeville was incorporated as a village under the general law.
1873— W. P. Musser, President; Charles Moore. B. Bowers. D. L. Mahoney, F- A. Miller and Moses Zenker, Associates.
1874— W. P. Musser, President; John J. Moore, A. Baltzer, M. Lenkard, D. Beaver and William Potts, Associates.
1875— H. W. Bolender, President; William Wagenhols, D. H. Zettle, Peter Sheckler, Benjamin Bowers and William Trotter, Associates.
1876— A. Baltzer. President; B. H. Bradshaw, William E. Eble. Edward Moore. H. Cadwell and D. L. Mahoney, Associates.
1877— M. P. Musser, President; J. B. Schrack, A. Bowers, H. W. Bolender, D. L. Mahonev and George Erb. Associates.
1878— M. P. Musser, President; S. E. Deal, J. B. Schrack, B. H. Bradshaw. H. W. Bolender and Abraham Bowers, Associates.
1879— J. G. Wise, President; Henry Deal, William Sandoe, E. T. Moore, John H. Denhart and H. Skinner, Associates.
1880— D. A. Schock. President; J. G. Wise, William Sandoe. Hiram Skinner, E. T. Moore and Henrv Deal. Associates.
Clerks.—W. A. St. John, 1867; B. H. Bradshaw. 1868 : D. R. Rubendall, 1869 : W. A. St. John. 1870; W. Trotter. 1871; W. Sandoe. 1*7:2: H. W. Bolender, 1873; J. J. Moore. 1874 : J. G. Wise, 1876; T. H. Rote. 1876-77; J. H. Miller, 1878; T. H. Rote, 1879-80.
Treasurers.—W. Wagenhals, 1867; H. Kline, 1868; P. Scheckler. 1869; W. Wagenhals, 1870; W. Potts, 1871 ; J. Munich, 1872; C. Moore, 1873; W. Potts. 1874: W. Sandoe, 1875; James Musser, 1876-80.
Police Magistrate.—William Sandoe, 1877.
Schools.—The first schoolhouse erected in the village occupied a portion of the lot east of the present site of the Luthern Church. In 1860. the school was graded, and in 1874 the present edifice was completed and occupied at a cost of §6,000.
The scholastic curriculum embraces two departments. " primary *" and "grammar," employing two teachers and enjoying a daily average attendance of seventy-six pupils. The annual expense attending the support of the schools is about 8800.
Lutheran and Reformed Church.—The Lutherans and Reformed Lutherans occupy the same edifice located on the main street north of the schoolhouse.
The Reformed society was organized May 3. 1851, by Henry Habliston, with twenty-four members, of whom Henry Ault was Elder and John Bower and M. Bolander Deacons.
At a meeting held the same year, it was decided to unite with the Lutherans to procure the erection of a church edifice, and Daniel Rean, John Bowers and John Wohlford were appointed a Building Committee. The corner-stone was laid in September, 1852, the Revs. G. J. Donmeyer. Daniel Kroh and George Weber officiating, and completed and dedicated September 23, 1855. The church cost $1,900 ; it is of brick, plainly furnished, supplied with an organ, and possessing a capacity for seating about 200 auditors. The dedicatory services were held by the Revs. G. J. Donmeyer, Daniel Kroh, F. C. Bowman, Aratus Kent and J. P. Decker, and the following Pastors have since served: The Revs. John Hoyman, Henry Knepper, C. G. A. Hulhorst and F. W. Stump. The congregation numbers about seventy communicants.
The Lutheran branch of the congregation was established about 1841 or 1848, under the auspices of the Rev. G. J. Donmeyer, with a very small congregation. Services were first held in a log schoolhouse on the Ault farm in Buck- eye Township. He remained in charge for a number of years, exchanging occasionally with the Rev. Ephraim Miller, of Cedarville, convening for service in the schoolhouse, mill, etc., until the church above mentioned was built, when it was occupied in part with the Lutheran Reformed congregation in accordance with the terms of an agreement concluded between the several associations.
The following Pastors have served since the society was established: The Revs. G. J. Donmeyer, Mr. Fahr, Charles Anderson, Mr. Cook, John K. Bloom. J. Stoll, A. B. Kiddlesworth, and B. F. Pugh, the present incumbent. The congregation numbers seventy-five worshipers.
The United Brethren Association—Has been in existence in Oneco since 1844. The first services were held in schoolhouses and private residences. The Orangeville Circuit was established in 1856. and in 1857 the present church in the village was erected. It is of brick. 36x50, and cost §2,000. Other churches were subsequently erected in the circuit, including Boehm Chapel in 1865, at an expense of $1,700, and St. James* Church in 1870, for which $2.000 was paid.
The association property is valued at 86,500. and the congregation numbers 200 communicants. The following ministers have served in the circuit: the Revs. Heman Scott. Jeremiah Kenoyer, Samuel Kretsinger, Mr. Frazier, William Dollarhide, Moses Clifton, Mr. Collins. Mr. Henninger, George Schneider. J. Hiestand. Mr. Pope, J. H. Grim, S. Rogers, J. H. Young, C. A. Philipps. J. W. Burd. Mr. Roe, J. Johnson, J. Dodson, W. R. Coursey, A. G. Loomis and O. M. Van Swearingen.
Methodist Church—Organized under the present arrangement October 15, 1875, though the sect had held services in the township for many years prior to that date. The charter members were Benjamin Bower and wife. Mrs. Susan Bennett, Mi's. Sarah Heckman, Mrs. B. J. Parriott, Mrs. J. H. Cook, William and Phcoby Frederick, and William Holloway and wife. Services were had semi-monthly, under the pastorate of the Rev. F. B. Hardin, in the German Reformed Church. He was succeeded by the Rev. Bertrand Dickens, under whose incumbency possession of Masonic Hall was obtained and is now in use.
At first, the congregation in the circuit and village was quite small, but in 1676 it began to increase, and has so continued with gratifying frequency to the present time. In October, 1877, the Rev. R. A. Harwood accepted charge of the church, and under his dispensation a new edifice was contracted for, same to be erected of frame at Oneco. to cost 81,100. and be completed September 1, 1880.
There are now 140 members of the congregation in the charge and twenty-eight in the village of Orangeville. The church property, including the parsonage, is valued at §2,000. Evangelical Association.—Formerly the Cedarville and Orangeville Circuits were several; but increase in numbers necessitated a division at various times, the last one occurring in 1870. when Orangeville was made a separate charge. The Orangeville Circuit now includes Orangeville, Fairfield. St. Peter's Church at Clarno, Wis., two appointments in Wayne County and one at Pleasant Hill.
The present congregation was organized at Orangeville some years ago, but the church edifice was not erected until 1880; it having been completed, and dedicated January 18. of that year, and is one of the finest finished and commodious churches in the county.
The edifice is of frame. 36x52, with a steeple eighty-seven feet high and an auditorium capable of comfortably seating 200 worshipers. It is elaborately frescoed, possessing superior acoustic qualities, furnished with an organ, and desirable in every particular. It cost, complete, §2,500.
The following Pastors have served since the Orangeville Circuit became a separate charge: The Rev. J. B. Rife, William Caton, and S. A. Miller, the present incumbent.
The circuit congregation numbers 245 communicants, fifty-two of whom worship in Orangeville, and the church property is valued at $5,000.
Orangeville Lodge., No. 687 A. F. & A. M. — Was chartered October 1. 1872, to the following-named members, though the lodge had been working under a dispensation for some time prior to that date: B. H. Bradshaw, David Jones, James Musser, Benjamin Musser, Charles Musser, I. G. Ermhold, J K. Bloom, H. W. Bolender. P. Scheckler, William Potts and D. A. Schock. The officers at this time were B. H. Bradshaw, W. M.; David Jones, S. W.. and James Musser, J. W.
The order progressed and prospered in wealth and influence, and, in 1876, erected a handsome hall on High street, a decided ornament to the village, and a source of pride to the fraternity and citizens of Orangeville. The hall is of frame, 26x51, two stories high, handsomely finished, and peculiarly adapted to the uses for which it is appropriated. The basement contains a supper-room, equipped with furniture, cooking and table utensils, and is used upon festive occasions. The first floor is occupied for hall purposes, where entertainments, lectures, social and church gatherings are held. It contains a stage, is thoroughly lighted, heated and ventilated, with a capacity for seating an audience of 300. The upper story is devoted to the lodge-room of the organization, and is superior, in point of finish, to many in cities more pretentious. The cost of the building was $2,500.
The present officers are S. R. Pollock. W. M.; C. Musser, S. W.: W. H. Barnes. J. W.; John F. Fink, Secretary; William E. Eble. Treasurer; P. Rubendall, S. D.; J. S. Hess, J. D., and H. W. Bolander, Tiler.
The present membership includes thirty-one of the craft, and the lodge property is valued at §2,500. Meetings are convened on the first and third Thursday of each month.
J.R. Scroggs Lodge, No. 372 I. O. O. F.— was organized October 13, 1868, under a charter issued to A. A. Krape, Thomas Spriggs, Henry Dinges. J. K. Bloom, J. J. Moore and William Sandoe. The officers then were A. A. Krape. N. G.: J. K. Bloom, V. G-, and William Sandoe, Secretary.
Since the date of its organization the lodge has prospered deservedly, and now enjoys a membership of sixty-five of the order, with property valued at §2,000.
The present officers are A. Rubendall. X. G.; Charles Worrick. V. G.: J. J. Moore and G. F. Ream, Secretaries, and H. W. Bolender, Treasurer. Meetings are held weekly, on Saturday evening, in Masonic Hall.
Orangeville Lodge, No. 133,1. 0. G. t.—Was first organized in 1867, and. after a few years' combat with the world of intemperance, yielded up the ghost. In the fall of 1877, J. Q. Detwiler. an ardent temperance reformer, labored throughout the county, and effected a re-organization of the society, with a total of twenty-four members, and the following officers : J. Cook, P. W. C. T.; Henry Knepper, W. C. T.; F. W. Stumpf, W. S.; Sarah Scheckler, W. F. S.: Mary Scott, W. T.; Sadie Seidel, W. V. T.; Addie Cook. Wr. I. G.; C. F. Winchell, W. M.; B. Dickens. Chaplain.
Within three years, the lodge has increased its working force to forty members, and is otherwise prosperous.
The following are the present officers: B. H. Bradshaw, P. W. C. T.: Sarah Seidel, W. C. T.; Amelia Dorn, W. V. T.; M. E. Bradshaw, W.S.; Milton Stites. W. F. S.; Libbie Bower, W. T.; L. Strevfeller, W. M.; Alory Scott, W. I. G.; Mrs. Kate Bowers, W. 0. G.
"Meetings are held semi-monthly, on Friday evenings, in Masonic Hall.
In addition to the societies which convene in Masonic Hall, its occupation is granted, on the first and third Saturday afternoons, to Excelsior Grange, No. 109, Patrons of Husbandry, which was chartered January 21, 1873, and now has sixty members, with the following officers: Daniel Musser, Master; Franklin Ream, Overseer; Charles Cad well. Secretary; Reuben Bobb, Treasurer: and Charles Cadwell. Chaplain.
Orangeville Flour Mills.— The first mills erected in the immediate vicinity of Orangeville, were put up by John M. Curtis, at a date long before the now flourishing village was conceived in the-brain of its founder. In 1838. Mr. Curtis "rigged" a very primitive dam on the opposite side of Richland Creek, near the foot of what is now known as High street, and built a mill supplied with one run of stones, and machinery for sawing purposes. He worked this industry successfully until his death, which occurred along in the forties, when they remained idle until John Bowers purchased the establishment and prepared to lay out the village.
In 1850, after Orangeville had been surveyed and began to be populated, Mr. Bowers razed the old structure, and from its ruins erected the present handsome building on the village side of the creek, at a cost of §8,000. The premises are of frame, 40x60, three and a half stories high, provided with three run of stone, and capable of grinding 200 bushels of wheat daily.
The tight times of 1857 caused a suspension of operations about the mills for a temporary period, and, in 1850, they passed into the hands of Messrs. Hefty, Legner & Co.. who conducted them for seven years, when they sold to E. F. Moore & Co. the present owners, for §12,000.0
In 1868, Moore k Co. reconstructed the saw-mill, located it north of the flour-mill, and refitted it with new machinery, the improvements made costing about §1.500, and to-day own one of the most complete establishments of the kind, invaluable to an agricultural community in this section of the State. Orangeville Creamery—One of the largest and most complete establishments of the kind in the West, was established January 18, 1879, by D. A. Schock and H. W. Bolender. the present proprietors. The buildings consist of a creamery and refrigerator, which were built at a cost of §5,000. supplied with convenience and detail necessary to a successful carrying-on of the every business.
The former is 38x50. containing the manufactory, cooler and other departments. The butter is manufactured by steam-power, and the process is somewhat interesting. The cream is first put in vats of a capacity of 260 pounds each and raised to a temperature of 60°, when it is thrown into a revolving churn and moved so rapidly that in forty minutes the raw butter is removed therefrom and placed in the cooling-room. It remains here about twenty-four hours, when it is taken out. worked thoroughly, salted, loaded into firkins and deposited in the refrigerator subject to order. The refrigerator is 24x40. with a capacity for storage of 180.000 pounds of butter in addition to ISO tons of ice. thereby maintaining an equable temperature of 40° all the year round.
The firm manufactures 210 tons of butter annually, or 1.400 pounds daily, requiring ???? pounds of cream therefor per day. and furnishing employment to ten hands at a weekly compensation of §100.
The goods are shipped to Chicago, St. Louis, Milwaukee and the Eastern markets, and command an almost universal demand among dealers.
The Cemetery was located within the village limits when the same were described in the first instance, and so continued until increasing population compelled its removal to some point remote from the habitations of man. It now occupies a handsome site on the hill overlooking town, the territory embraced consisting of an acre of ground donated by John Bowers, which is handsomely laid out and appropriately decorated with emblems commemorative of the virtues of those who sleep beneath its turf.
Post Office.—This indispensable adjunct to civilization was first established in 1854. An effort was made the year previous to procure its location at Bowersville, but without results. The year following, however, a change came over the spirit of the Postmaster General's conclusions, who granted the prayer of petitioners in that connection, directed that the name be changed to Orangeville, and appointed William Wagenhals Postmaster. It is now located in one of the first brick houses erected in the village, with facilities for communicating with the outer world unsurpassed by those of any interior town of similar proportions and importance.
The first marriage to take place after the building of the village was formally inaugurated was that of William Wagenhols and Susan Sandoe; this was in 1848.
Emanuel Shafer, a lad residing with his parents in this village, was bitten by a snake about the same year, and his is recorded as the first death: while a daughter to Mary and William Chilton is reputed as the first birth.
ONECO
Along in 1840, Henry Corwith, of Galena, acting on behalf of J. K. Brewster, entered a quarter-section of land on the very spot now occupied in part by Oneco. This village, which is located near the center of the township, was thus laid out and plaited with the hope that it in time would become a flourishing depot for prosperity to halt at permanently. Some time after its survey, the land of which the original tract was composed, excepting about fifteen acres, was sold, and is now occupied by the farm of Samuel Stout. Subsequently, two additions were made to the town site by Alonzo Denio. and it now contains a population estimated at one hundred.
School was taught in sight of the village as early as 1843. In 1851, a brick building was erected on Denio's Addition, east of the post office, which was occupied until the completion of the present structure, on the Orangeville road. This was accomplished in 1876, at a cost of S-.000; at present, one teacher is employed, who furnishes education and the attendant concomitant's to an overage daily attendance of sixty-five pupils. The annual expenses incident to maintaining the school are stated at $500.
The residents of the village and vicinity attend church in Orangeville. but the Methodists are at present erecting an edifice, which will be completed in the fall or winter.
BIOGRAPHIES of ONECO TOWNSHIP

JOHN W. BAUMGARDNER, with Deal & Swartz, Orangeville; born in Stephenson Co., Ill., Nov. 27 ; he went to Western College, at Western, Lynn Co., Iowa, took a classical course, and graduated in 1878; then he went into business there, but closed out and came to Orangeville. and went in with Deal & Co., general merchandise, and has been here since. In 1876, Aug. 17, he married Miss Frances Owen, of Pennsylvania, who was born in April, 1854 ; their child is named Katie C. Mr. Baumgardner is now studying for the United Brethren ministry; his father died in 1855; his mother, Catharine, while a widow living at Buckeye Center, married Martin Bender, who died in 1876. in the fall; she is now living with her sister on the old estate.
D. L. BEAR, farmer, Sec. 33; P. 0. Orangeville; born in Lehigh Co., Penn.. May 21, 1834; came to Stephenson Co. in 1842, with father, mother, his sister Mary (now Mrs. Shipton). and brothers John G., Willoughby and Peter J. D. L. Bear settled on Sec. 33 in 1863; owns 235 acres. May 6, 1858, he married Miss Susanna Wohlford, of Pennsylvania, who was born in Center Co. March 15, 1836; their family consists of six children—Lucy A., Aaron Willard, Peter D. L., Christ Benjamin, John H. and David E. (twins). Mr. Bear has held township and school offices, belongs to the United Brethren Church, and is a Republican in politics.
WILLOUGHBY BEAR, farmer, Sec. 19; P. 0. Orangeville; born in Union Co., Penn., March 20, 1838; learned the trade of mason and bricklaying; came West to Stephenson Co. in 1841; now lives on the old homestead, where his father died in 1850, and his mother in 1864; he now owns 95 acres of land, valued at 850 an acre. In 1861, he was married to Miss Rebecca Hartman. of Pennsylvania; they have six children—Sarah Jane (now Mrs. A. Fahr), Mary A., Ida L., Howard C, Bertha R. and Wilson G. (Mr. Bear has been Road Commissioner, School Trustee, and is a member of the United Brethren Church and Sabbath-School Superintendent. In politics, he is a Republican.
B. P. BELKNAP, farmer, Sec. 31; P. 0. Orangeville; born in Vermont, Dec. 24. 1811. In 1836, he was married to Miss Deborah Beebe, of Vermont; moved to Albany, N. Y., and went into the coal business: in 1839, he started West, and walked from Milwaukee to Monroe. Wis., and then to Gratiot; his wife came in 1841; they stopped with the Brewster family on Sec. 25, then moved on the farm where they now reside, consisting of 140 acres, and, with the exception of six years in Monroe, Wis., have been here since. Mr. Belknap taught the first school in Oneco Township, at Aaron Denio's house, in 1840. The children are Mary, now Mrs. Everett), Lattig (deceased), Hannah (now Mrs. Mulks). Corwin (who has served in the 46th I. V. I. Co. A). F. C; Edwin C, Lillie M., Edwin,deceased) and Laura deceased). Mr. Belknap has been Constable, Coroner and Commissioner of Highways.
FRANKLIN BOLENDER, farmer, Sec. 29 PO Orangeville; born in Union (now Snyder; Co., Penn., Jan. 30, 1834 ; came to Stephenson Co. in 1840 with his father, Michael, who was accompanied by the well-known old settlers Brother John Bolender, John Kleckner, Michael Gift and George Mowry. Michael's family were Caroline, Lewis, Frank, Henry. Harrison and Benjamin, living in Pennsylvania. Michael Bolender settled on the farm where he is now living, aged 78, being now entirely blind since 1878; the rest of his family was born in Oneco Township—Michael, Mary, Anna and Amelia. Franklin is now fanning part of the old estate, and owns SO acres on Sec. 30, since 1875. On Jan. 30, 1868, he was married to Miss Susan Rockey, of Pennsylvania; their children are Charles, Oscar, Edwin. Emma and William (deceased. Mr. Bolender has been Assessor and has held school offices. Religion, Reformed Church; in politics, a Republican.
HARRISON W. BOLENDER, of the firm of Schoch & Bolender, proprietors of Orangeville Creamery; came to the county with his father and family in 1840; the family consisted of Caroline, now Mrs. Reubondoll; Lewis, on Sec. 29, Oneco; Frank, same Section; Henry, on Sec. 30; Harrison W., the subject of this sketch; Mary, now Mrs. Marion; Anna L.. now Mrs. Fahr; Amelia, now Mrs. Belknap, on Sec. 30; an infant and Peter, deceased; mother died in June. 1878; Harrison W., was born in Union Co., Penn., Nov. 18, 1839 ; at the age of IS, he worked with his brother Lewis, as architect and builder; in 1875, went into the wind-mill business, under the name of Swartz & Bolender; gave up, and is now partner of the firm of Schoch & Bolender, Orangeville Creamery. In 1870, he, married Miss Mary Wagner, of Illinois; their children are Anna. Michael (dead). Helen and Stephen. Mr. Bolender was in the 46th I. V. I., Co. A. and was wounded in the arm, shoulder and thigh ; he was one of the Trustees and member of the Board of Education ; he is a Republican in politics.
AARON BOWER, farmer, Sec. 35 ; P. O. Orangeville; born in Union Co., Penn., Feb. 11,1840; the party that came West consisted of father, Abraham Bower, himself and sister Mary, now Mrs. Naramore. living at Lena; in the spring of 1851, they settled here, on Sec. 35; here he now lives, owns 210 acres of land. In 1863, he married Miss Amelia Hackenberg, of Pennsylvania, has a family of five children—Cora, Elma. Cornelia, Isabelle. Otto A. and Melvin Mr. Bowers wife belongs to the M. E. Church.
JOHN BOWER, retired farmer, Orangeville; born in Union Co., Penn., June 30, 1805; visited Stephenson Co. in 1843, and returned for his family; on coming West then, he settled in Oneco, in April, 1846 ; while in Pennsylvania, he learned the carpenter trade, which he followed until coming West; in the spring of 1846. he located on Sec. 36, and built not four rods from where the Orangeville tavern now stands; he had also bought the water-power, and in 1845. started Bower's grist mill, now called White Hall Mills; he laid out the village of Orangeville, then called Bowerville. and now owns considerable town property, together with the hotel, which his son William runs. In 1826. he married Miss Susanna Riehe, of Pennsylvania, who was born in 1807, and is now living with him; their family arc Martin. Mary, now dead; Moses, John, Benjamin, Martet, deceased; William, landlord of Orangeville hotel; Catharine, now Mrs. Hayman. Mr. Bower belongs to the Reform Church.
DR. B. H. BRADSHAW, physician and surgeon. Orangeville; born in Guernsey, Belmont Co., Ohio, Sept. 29, 1834. and came to Freeport in 1855. and in Feb. 20, 1861, graduated in the Rush Medical College, of Chicago. On the breaking-out of the war. he enlisted in the 46th I. V. I., Co. G; was detailed as Assistant Surgeon, and then, finally, on the 12th of Sept., 1862, commissioned Surgeon; was mustered out with regiment in 1366; Jan. 31, came to Orangeville and commenced practice in the field formerly held by Dr. W. P. Naramore, and now has a very nice business. In 1868, Jan. 1, he married Miss Mary E. Cad well, of Illinois; their children are Caroline P. and George T. Dr. B. belongs to the M. E. Church ; he is a Republican in politics.
CHARLES A. CADWELL, farmer. Sec. 32; P. O. Orangeville; was born in Oneco Township, Stephenson Co., 111., June 24, 1848. on the homestead which his father had claimed in 1839, and in 1841 took possession; his father died in 1873; his mother, in 1877, leaving seven children—Mary C . Horace, Charles A. (the subject of this sketch), Abbie. Emily, Isaac and Helen ; Charles has conducted the estate since 1872. In 1871, was married to Miss Amanda Fahr of Orangeville, Stephenson Co. Ill; their children are Mary E. and a pair of twins, Benjamin and Bertha. Mr Cadwell has been a teacher ; has held school offices; in politics, he is a Republican.
W. H. CLARNO, farmer, Sec. 34; P. O. Orangeville; born in Tazewell Co., IL., April 3, 1835. Grandfather, John H. Clarno, came from France to Virginia, where John Hunter Clarno was born, who then moved to Ohio, and married Miss Jane Plimel. of that State, and in 1832 moved to Illinois, and was elected Captain in a company daring the Black Hawk war, moving to Stephenson Co.. Aug. 16, 1838, he located on Sec. 34, where he entered 280 acres; the family then were father, who died Jan. 12, 1858; mother, who died April 21, 1877, and ten children ; Jane, now Mrs. Bailey ; Andrew, Francis (deceased), one daughter (deceased) ; W. H., the subject of this sketch; John M., Harriet, now Mrs. Foans; Joseph, James, M. and Francis are dead. W. H. Clarno now is sole owner of the old estate, having 200 acres. On Nov. 22, 1860, he married Miss Mary C. Kyler, of Pennsylvania; their children are Mary Jane, Sarah E., John H., Oliver P., Anthony J., Aaron A., M. Lewella, Stella V., J. Albert. Mr. Clarno has held township and school offices. Republican in politics.
H. R. DEAL, Orangeville; born in 1851, in Oneco, Stephenson Co., IL.; after he common experience of youth in the country, he entered the store of his father father as clerk in 1876, and afterward went to Monroe and followed the same occupation; returning in 1877, he went to work for J. Musser in September of that year- where he now clerks. In 1872, he married Miss M. Alice Ritzman, of Pennsylvania. W. E. and William I. are his children. Mr. Deal belongs to the Board of Trustees.
S. E. DEAL, merchant, Orangeville; born Oct. 19, 1825, in Northampton Co., Penn; he lived with his parents in Philadelphia, in 1831; in Lycoming Co., in 1839, and learned the carpenter's trade, and came to Stephenson Co. in the spring of 1848; worked at his trade till his eyesight failed in 1857, when he went to farming; but in 1863 moved to Oneco, and then to Orangeville in 1870; opened a grocery and confectionery in 1874. and since has continued in business until now. He carries a stock of general merchandise worth $6,000 and does a trade of over $20,000 per annum the firm is known as Deal & Swartz. In 1847, he married Miss Catherine Ray horn, of Pennsylvania, who died Aug. 19, 1874. Was married again to Miss Mary Bumgartner, then Mrs. Bechtol; their children are Henry R.. Mary C. (now Fahr). Mr. Deal has belonged to the U. B. for forty years, and has held office most of the time.
J. C. DORN, farmer. Sec. 35; P. O. Orangeville; born in Cortland Co. N. Y., Feb. 21, 1817; mother died in 1320, father in 1827, leaving him an orphan at the age of 10; lived with his uncle till 1838 and taught school in New York, Mississippi. Illinois and Ohio. He visited Illinois in 1843, and bought a farm on Sec. 35, o 160 acres; went back to Ohio, and Dec. 31, 1844. married Miss Betsy Hat ward, of Ohio. He has taught school here in the West, and also music, to the early settlers Mr. Dorn has been Justice of the Peace since 1866; has been School Treasurer and Clerk of Board; the children are Lavina. died when 4 weeks old; Mary, died when 3 1/2 years old; John Quincy, died when 5 1/2 years old; Nancy, John, Charles P, (dentist in Naperville); Helen, now Mrs. Wagner, George D. and Amelia A. Presbyterian in religion.
GEORGE ERB - retired farmer, Orangeville; born in Union Co., Penn. Aug. 12, 1808; came to Stephenson Co. in 1854. and went on to a farm on Sec H8, but finally moved into the town of Orangeville. On Feb. 16, 1830, he married Miss Mary Ann Gross, of Pennsylvania ; his first family consists of twelve children; this wife died in 1858. Married again, in the fall of 1860, to Miss Julia Ann Woodring; all his first family are dead but two: those living are Sophaiel Catharine (now Mrs. Smith), Ida May, Amanda E. Henry and Isaac enlisted in Co. G 93d I. V. L: Henry was wounded and taken prisoner at Altoona and died: Isaac was killed at Champion Hill Mr. Erb is Trustee of the village, and an Elder in the Lutheran Church.
JOHN F. FINK, clerk, with J. Musser. Orangeville, came to Stephenson Co. in 1850. with his father Joshua, whose family consisted of mother (maiden name Elizabeth Kaufman), children — George (deceased;, Charles, Matilda,deceased), Junas D. W. (a preacher, in Lisbon. Iowa), Sarah (now Mrs. Moore), John F., Maria (deceased), Thomas J. (a preacher), and Mary E. is now Mrs. C. W. Anthony), John F. was born in Allentown, Lehigh Co., Penn., Dec. 23, 1844, and engaged in the woolen business in 1868 and afterward carried on the insurance business till 1877, and then came to Orangeville as a clerk in J. Musser's establishment. In 1366 he married Miss Mary A. Nagle, of Pennsylvania; they have two children — J. W. Ellis (deceased), and Vida Delight, now 7 years old. Mr. Fink has held the offices of Trustee, Clerk and Collector, and is now Clerk of the Board of Education. He is a Republican in politics, and a member of the M. E. Church.
JACOB FISHER, farmer. Sec. 33; P. 0. Orangeville; born in Union Co., Penn., Feb. 21. 1806, and stayed in Clinton Co. for eighteen years; then scared West, stopping in Rock Grove, June 6, 1847; then ho moved on to Oneco Township, in 1848. where he built the house which is now occupied by his son John; he having moved to Sec. 33. where he now lives; owns 200 acres of farm land. On Feb. 22, 1829, he married Miss Maria Kayhorn of Pennsylvania; they have one son—John Fisher, born Oct. 29, 1829; has held township offices; belongs to Lutheran Church ; politics. Democrat. His father's family consisted of thirteen children; his mother's maiden name was Christina Walmar.
JACOB FYE, farmer. Sec 34; P. 0. Orangeville; born in Centre Co., Penn.. Feb. 10. 1839 ; came to Stephenson Co. in the fall of 1839. with his father, David Fye. and family consisting of eight children —John (living in Nebraska), Sarah (now Mrs. Zettle), Jacob (the subject of this sketch), Mary (now Mrs. Kohr); beside these, David and Rebecca live in Pennsylvania yet; and one died in 1853, named Katie. On coming West, settled first in Dakota Township; lived there until 1868, when he sold out and moved to this farm of 80 acres, valued at 850 an acre; his father died in 1872; his mother is still living, and will be 83 years old July 9, 1880. On Dec. 22, 1864, he married Miss Sarah Lanker, of Dauphin Co., Penn., and has nine children —Katie H., Edwin D.. Samuel W.. Minnie L.: Levi F., Arthur H.; Alice L. Boydd M. and Bessie E. Mr. Fye belongs to the M. E. Church.
LEWIS GIBLER, Oneco; born in Shenandoah Co., Va., Nov. 1, 1799, moved to Ohio, Ross Co., in 1802, and put up the first mill built in that county ; Jacob Philip and John, his brothers, served in the war of 1812: father died in 1818, Jan. 10; mother died in 1336. Mr. Gibler, in 1819, married Miss Margaret Van Metre, of Ohio, and, in 1828, came West and worked in the mines, with wife's brother, John J., James and Abraham; he sold out his share and returned to Ohio; went to farming; in 1839, came to Stephenson Co. and settled on Sec. 1. having a farm of 300 acres; moved to Wisconsin and came to the village of Oneco, in 1855; lived in Freeport and settled here again, where his wife died Oct. 24. 1878; she was the mother of thirteen children, grand mother of sixty, and great-grandmother of forty-four; she was buried in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery; children are Morgan, John, Sarah. Jesse, Mary, Jefferson, dead; Prucilla, Lewis B., Joseph H., William, Margaret and Catherine. Held township and school offices; belongs to Christian Church, and Democrat in politics.
MICHAEL GIFT, retired farmer, Orangeville; born in Union Co., Penn.. Jan. 3, 1816; there he learned the trade of blacksmith and worked at the trade three years, and, in 1840, came here to Stephenson Co., in company with his wife's family, her father, John Kleckner, and her mother, with four children; Charles Kleckner, wife and family, and the subject of this sketch, located first in Rock Grove. In 1843, he married Miss Ann E. Kleckner, and moved on to his farm on Sec. 19, Oneco Township ; he now owns 300 acres, and, in 1877, in the fall, he moved to Orangeville. His son. William H., lives on Sec. 21 ; Mary E.. now Mrs. Potts, and George T., on Sec. 19, are the children. Mr. Gift has held township and school offices; Republican, Lutheran.
REV. R. A. HARWOOD, Pastor of M. E. Church, Orangeville; born in Stephenson Co., in 1852, May 16; he attended school at Mt. Morris, in 1875 and 1876, and afterward went to Rock River Seminary, under Principal M. C. Dougherty; he then taught school and farmed till September, 1877, when he concluded to enter the ministry; in September, he was licensed to preach; in 1878, admitted to Conference, and October of same year, took the Orangeville Circuit of McConnels Grove, Winslow, Oneco. Pleasant Hill and Franklin. In 1876, Dec. 24, he married Miss Emma I. Oilman, of Illinois; they have one child, named Miner, 16 month old; his mother camp, to the county in 1845, and is now living at Eleroy; his father died in 1834.
LYMAN HULLBURT, farmer. Sec. 32 McConnells Grove. Born in Easton, Madison Co., N. Y., Feb. 11, 1809; went to Chautauqua Co. in 1819, and came West in 1837, his father having died in 1825; the party consisted of mother, himself and wife, with two children ; settled first in Winslow Township, in spring of 1838 ; located on Sec. 33, Oneco Township, where he owns 120 acres of land. He was married, 1833, in Chautauqua Co., N. Y., to Miss Jane Cross, who was born in 1816 ; their children are Delos, Ira, Mary, now Mrs. Diveley : Lyman, who was killed at Chattanooga, a member of the 93d I. V. I., Co. C, and John. Mr. Hutburt belongs to the Christian Church at Mt. Pleasant.
GEORGE KLINE, farmer. Sec. 28 ; P. O. Orangeville ; born in Union Co. Penn., Nov. 26, 1831 ; in his younger days, worked with his father at blacksmithing ; in 1856, came West on a visit, and went back to get his wife and two children, and in May 27, 1867, settled on Sec. 28; bought a farm of D. S. Young, containing 82 acres, but afterward became possessor of more land, and now owns 152 acres, valued at $50 an acre. In 1854 was married to Miss Caroline Benfer, of Pennsylvania; have a family of four children—S. Ellen, M. Emma. Laura A., an infant, now deceased, and Jesse M. Mr. Kline is now Road Commissioner, being elected in the spring of 1880 ; in politics, a Republican. Two of his brothers were soldiers in the war of the rebellion —Eli Kline and L. S. Kline.
CHARLES LESTIKOW, farmer, Sec. 33; P.O. Orangeville; born in Prussia, Germany, June 4, 1835; landed in New York Oct. 3, 1864; came West and settled on this farm on Sec. 33. Oneco Township, in the spring of 1865 ; owns 95 acres, valued at $45 an acre. In 1364, on Christmas, he married Miss Minnie Hubner, also a native of Germany ; they have five children—Randolph, Emma. Jennie, Charles and Anna. Mr. Lestikow is a member of the M. E. Church, and Republican in politics.
JOHN McDANIEL, merchant. Oneco; born in Ohio. Dec. 10, 1815; came to Stephenson Co. June 12, 1849 ; settled on Sec. 20, Oneco Township, and tanned till 1880, when he moved to the village of Oneco and opened a grocery store on February 19; he now owns 25 acres in the village and the store and residence. On Nov. 28, 1837, he married Miss Nancy Walton, of Ohio; two children—Melinda J. and Mary E. Belongs to Christian Church.
J. H. MILLER, book keeper with J. Musser, Orangeville; came to Stephenson Co. with his father. Charles S. Miller, and mother, Elizabeth, nee Dersham. J. H. Miller was born in Union Co.. Penn.. Oct. 23. 1852; came to this county, and. in 1871, took a commercial course at the college at Naperville ; then taught school; however, he returned and took a course in penmanship, and taught that art until entering the employ of B. & J. Musser as book-keeper, where he has been to this time. On Nov. 4, 1877 he married Miss Lila C. Bobb, of Illinois. Evangelical in religion.
DANIEL MOORE, retired farmer, Oneco; born in Union Co., Penn., Aug. 2, 1814; learned the mason's trade, and in Pennsylvania constructed a cellar for Dr. Van Valzee, one of the first settlers and physicians of Stephenson Co. Mr. Moore came to the county in 1868. and finally settled on Sec. 25, and owns a farm of 120 acres there now. In 1836. Oct. 16, he married Miss Rachel Rudy, of Dauphin Co., Penn.; they have nine children—Phoebe A., deceased; William R., Catharine D., now Mrs. Kline; Amelia B., now Mrs. P. Strahan; Sarah E., now Mrs. Fred Winter; Mary Jane, now Mrs. Kline; Thomas James, deceased; John H., deceased, and Rachel E., deceased. Himself and wife attend the M. E. Church. His son William was a soldier belonging to the 46th I. V. I., Co. A, of which he was Second Lieutenant; he was wounded at Jackson, Miss.
E.T. MOORE, Orangeville; came to Stephenson Co. in 1848 with his father and family ; they stopped in Cedarville, and run the mill for John H. Adams ; removed to Freeport, and at one time run the old Lurch mill, which is now destroyed; in 1860, they moved to Orangeville and bought the flouring-mill of Helty & Kiegler, which K. T. Moore now runs; the mill is 40x110 feet on the ground, and three and a half stories high, running three pair of buhrs with the Letller water-wheel. Turbine, capacity 200 bushels a day. The old family is Ann S., now Mrs. Kaufman: Edward T., Oscar C-, deceased; Rebecca, now dead ; Aaron, deceased; Agnes A., now Mrs. Wade ; William H.. now dead ; John J., now dead ; Ellen R., now Mrs. Tucker ; and Mary A., deceased. E. T. Moore was born in Northampton Co., Penn., in 1832 ; has been a miller all his life. In 1859, he married Miss Sarah Fink, of Pennsylvania; he has a family of six children—Anna. Stephen, Tillie, Mary, Arthur and Stella. He has held township offices. Is Evangelical in religion, and a Democrat in politics.
CHARLES MUSSER, farmer, Sec. 32; P. 0. Orangeville; born in Center Co., Penn.. Dec. 15, 1844 ; his father, Jonas, died in 1855 ; Charles was engaged in farming and clerking before coming West to Stephenson Co. in 1858 : he clerked for J. M. Smith, of Buena Vista, then for Kenney & Delhauer. and afterward for J. & B. Musser. of Orangeville. Jan. 4, 1809. He was married to Miss Mary A. Pollock ; in 1870 he bought 100 acres of laud, his present farm - raises grain and stock. Has two children—Thomas O. and Winnefred M. Mr. M. has held school offices, and served in the war in Co. A. 46th I. V. I.
EMANUEL MUSSER, farmer. Sec. 19; P. O. Orangeville; born in Center Co., Penn.. Jan. 13. 1826. In 1855. he was married to Miss Harriet Confer, of Pennsylvania, and farmed for two years in Center Co.; then came West to Stephenson Co.. IL.; in 1957. he bought a farm of 120 acres on the Kleckner place; built a residence in 1875, and cleared 50 acres ; be now has 100 acres under the plow. He has held township and school offices; in religion is Lutheran, and in politics a Republican. He has five children—Mary C. Euinia A., William A., C. Boyd and Meda M.
JAMES MUSSER, merchant, Orangeville; born in Centre Co., Penn, 1843; came to Stephenson Co., in 1857, and attended school at Orangeville, afterward at Beloit, where in 1861 be joined a company, which not being accepted, he joined the 46th I. V. I., Co. A; having served three years, he re-enlisted in December, 1863, and came home in 1865, having served in the war of the rebellion for four years and six months, lacking ten days; he entered the commercial business with his brother on Sept. 10, 1866; the firm, under the name of B. & J. Musser, in one year, did $35,000 worth of business, and employed seven men in different departments; Mr. J. Musser now carries about $14,000 in stock; the firm of B. & J. dissolved in 1876. In 1870, he married Miss Kate E. Zimmerman, of Pennsylvania i; they have three children— Herbert A., Mabel E. and Royston ; has held township offices. Republican in politics.
MICHAEL MUSSER, real estate broker, Orangeville; born in Gregg Township, Centre Co., Penn., in 1333 ; came with his parents and family to Stephenson Co. in 1856; lived on the farm. Sec. 2, Buckeye Township. On Jan. 10, 1870, he married Miss Sarah Wohlford, of Illinois, and has two sons—John B., born in 1873, and Logan C, born in 1875. Mr. Musser moved to Orangeville and entered the firm of B. & J. Musser, general merchandise, in 1870, and in 1877 withdrew, and has been engaged in real estate since ; he owns now 375 acres in difference parts of the township; at one time his four brothers belonged to the 46th I. V. I., Co. A.—John, Benjamin, Charles and James; while Michael looked after the estate at home, the others were serving their country.
WILLIAM J. MUSSER, farmer, Sec. 19; P. O. Orangeville; born in Centre Co., Penn, Oct. 27, 1352, and in 1376, came to Stephenson Co.; located on Sec. 19, buying the farm of 120 acres of John Confer. In 1877, he married Miss Jennie Wolf, of Pennsylvania, and they have a little girl name Elsie. Politics, Republican.
REV. B. F. PUGH. Pastor. Lutheran; Orangeville; born in Somerset Co., Penn., Aug. 4,1847; in 1864, he enlisted in the 5th Penn. V. L, Co. K; mustered out June 30, 1865, at Vienna, Va.; returned, and after working on the farm, entered the school-room; in this vocation he taught in the States of Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia, and at other times was employed as clerk at different stores till 1870 ; in the fall he started for Ceylon's Grove; here he attended the Missionary Institute, in 1871, taking a classical and theological course; graduating on May 29, 1877; was ordained by the Susquehanna Synod, at Bloomsburg. June 27 ; commenced preaching in Orangeville July 29, 1877. On Sept. 10,1878, he was married to Miss A. F. Cad well, in Elmira, N. Y.; they have one child—Claude Stanley, born Nov. 4, 1879. Republican in politics.
WILLIAM M. RAYMOND, stock and grain farmer, Sec. 20; P. 0. Oneco; born in Canada May 10, 1834; came into Stephan Co. in 1843, and worked farm work for David L. Humphrey for ten years, and after Mr. Humphrey's death he purchased the farm in the year 1867 ; owns 154 acres; is now building a fine residence where he helped to build Mr. H's house in 1843. On July 4, 1861, he married Miss Hannah Jane Van Matre, of Illinois, and has a family of four children—Olive, now Mrs. Fenner, Farmer B., Emma, and Willie V., born June 28, 1873. Mr. Raymond has held township and school offices. Politics, Democrat; religion. Christian. He is one of the three farmers—T. J. and W. J. Van Matre and William M. Raymond, stock farmers, having the finest Norman imported horses in Stephenson Co.
JACOB L. RAYHORN, farmer, Sec. 32; P. O. McConnell's Grove born in Stephenson Co., Sept. 3, 1849; his parents having come West in that year, and settled in Rock Grove, and after farming at Hickory Grove and down on Cedar Creek, they moved to their present home on Sec. 32 in 1863; Jacob now farms all the estate, his father having retired from active labor. In the spring of 1877, he married Miss Agnes Garret; their child is named Clinton Lumas. Mr. Ray horn is now a Trustee of the U. B. Church, and School Director.
G. F. RIEM. retired farmer. Orangeville; came West with his father in 1845 ; located on Sec. 36, Stephenson Co., Oneco Township, where he now lives on his farm of 119 acres. The old family consists of Martin ('deceased); Eliza, now Mrs. Potts; Sarah, now Mrs. Trotter; James (deceased); George Franklin at home; mother died in 1879. G. F. Riem was burn in Union Co.. Penn., Feb. 26, 1843: has been fanning with his father since. On Dec. 21. 1870, he married Miss Clara E. Cross, of Illinois; they have three children—Mary, Esther. George D. and Emma Jane. Mr. Riem has held office of Township Clerk for eight years, and is a Democrat. The Orangeville school buildings are on part of his farm, and he sold one acre for $400.
THOMAS H. ROTE, blacksmith, Orangeville; born in Aaronsburg, Center Penn., July 3, 1861; attended commercial school at Iron City College; in 1873, he came West and established himself in Orangeville in 1376 ; he has held public offices, and is now Clerk of the village. In 1876. he married Miss Laura Emily Cadwell, of Illinois. His father's family were Simon Rote and Susan ; parent's children— Archibald, Daniel. John C., Sarah E., now Mrs. Fisher; Mary (deceased, Joanna (deceased), Thomas H. G., Alice P. (deceased). Mr. Rotes parents visited Orangeville in 1877. On his wife's side, the Cadwell family came here to Stephenson Co. in 1339 ; father, George S. Cadwell, and mother, Caroline (formerly Gillett), settled here in 1841. The family were Mary E.; now Mrs. Bradshaw, Forest, Charles A., F. Addie. now Mrs. Pugh., L. Emma, now Mrs. Rote, G. Isaac, Helen.
W. F- SANDERS, farmer. Sec. 19 ; P. 0. Orangeville; born Union Co., Penn., Dec. 19, 1836; came West to Green Co., Wis., in 1850, after stopping in Lafayette Co.; came to his present location in 1865 ; the farm of 109 acres he bought of Mr. Worick. His father died in 1874 and mother in 1879. In 1863, he married Miss Margaret Jane Worick. who was born in Centre Co., Penn., in 1846 ; they now have three children—John W. E., Spurgeon B. and Clayton F. Mr. Sanders has held school and township offices, and belongs to the Evangelical Church. Enlisted in the 15th I. V. I.. Co. E; was wounded at the battle of Shiloh in the hip, and now gets a pension.
WILLIAM SANDOE, harness maker and postmaster, Orangeville ; born in Dauphin Co., Penn., Jan. 9, 1844 ; came to Stephenson Co. in April, 1847, with his father and family ; mother died one year afterward, in 1848, and his father, Daniel Sandoe, married again, and, in 1876, died in the village of Orangeville ; of the old family, there are two brothers in Iowa, two sisters in Kansas, and two sisters here. William went to Monroe, Wis., in 1860, learned the harness-trade, and when the war broke out, enlisted in the 93d I. V. L, Co. G; returned to Monroe in 1865, and worked for D. F. Corson & Son. In fall of 1867, opened a harness-shop in Orangeville, and married Miss 0. V. Knepper, of Maryland, in 1868; they have had three children— Clara D., deceased ; Leonora, now 8 years of age; Stella, 5. Mr. Sandoe was appointed Postmaster of Orangeville; is now Police Magistrate; has been Township Clerk, and belongs to the Reformed Church ; Republican in politics.
DAVID A. SCHOCH, of the firm of Schoch & Bolender, proprietors of Orangeville Creamery ; born in Snyder Co.. Penn., Feb. 18, 1834 ; attended school till 1848, then clerked in Freeburg, Penn. , came to Orangeville in 1855, went to work for C. M. Sheffer and Co., where he worked till 1857; he then went on to the farm, Secs. 32 and 33, Range S east, where he owns 260 acres; and in September, 1878, established the Orangeville Creamery, owned by Schoch & Bolender. In 1857, he married Miss Harriet Wagoner, of Pennsylvania ; the children are John, dead ; Luella. deceased, and Maude; also an infant dead. Mr. Schoch has held township offices, Treasurer, etc. Attends M. K. Church.
HIRAM SHONS, County Surveyor and farmer, Sec. 28; P. 0. Orangeville ; born in Orange Co., N. Y.. Jan. 12, 1816 ; was engaged in teaching and surveying until the war; and, having moved to Kentucky, raised Co. H of the 2d Battalion of Cavalry in Estill Co., of which he was elected Captain, and when he was mustered out, in 1864. was appointed Government Agent; served till 1865 ; in 1868. moved on his farm in Stephenson Co., which he owned since 1853 ; it contains 80 acres, also owns 40 acres in Wisconsin. Tn 1845, was married to Miss Roxana Cadwell, and they have ail children—Alice, Alfred C, Hiram, Jr.. William H. S., Carrie and Omar. In politics, Republican.
REV. F. W. STUMP, Pastor of Reform Church, Orangeville; born in Stark Co., Ohio, Dec. 11, 1851; usual boyhood's experience until November, 1870; attended college at Heidelburg, Tiffin, Seneca Co., Ohio, in 1876; graduated in the classical course, also in the Theological Seminary of that place; he was licensed to preach by the Ohio Synod of the Reform Church of Orville; came to Orangeville, June 24, 1877; was ordained and installed by the Northern Illinois Classics, in 1877, July 8, in the Orangeville Circuit, embracing the Orangeville, Cedarville, Bellevue and Shueyville charges. Mr. Stump is Dept. G. W. C. T. of the Good Templar Lodge of Orangeville.
A. A. SWARTZ, farmer. Sec. 30; P. O. Orangeville; born in Stephenson Co., III., March 23, 1852; has worked at the mason trade; taught school and now farms the old estate; his father came to the county, in 1844, bringing his wife Sarah and a family of five children—Samuel, Jacob, deceased ; Anna, deceased ; Henry and Andrew, the subject of this sketch; they purchased this farm of Mr. Lomas, consisting of 120 acres farm-land and 80 acres timber. Andrew is not married; his father is a member of the Lutheran Church; his brother Jacob died in 1874, of consumption contracted in the army.
PHILIP SWARTZ, merchant, Orangeville; born in Union Co.. Penn.; Aug. 13, 1845; in 1866, went to Freeport and entered D. S. Bucher's store as clerk, where he remained six years; then went to Dakota Territory on land tour, where he purchased 160 acres ; returned to Freeport and worked with Mr. Walton at Pecatonica; afterward for Albert Plato; in 1879, came to Orangeville and bought one-half interest in S. E. Deal's store; the firm name is now Deal and Swartz. In 1875, he married Miss P. J. Searles, of Ohio. Democrat in politics.
ELIZABETH VAN MATRE, widow,Sec. 28; P.O. Orangeville ; born in Sangamon Co., IL., Nov. 7, 1835. and married to Joseph Nogle Van Matre. at Shueyville, Wis., in 1858, July 4, her maiden name being Elizabeth Trotter. He was born in Clinton Co., Penn., April 13, 1837, and came to Stephenson Co. in 1840, and finally settled on the estate which his widow now holds and farms; he died,in 1878, July 28, leaving her the farm on Sec. 28, and a family of two boys—George N., born June, 1862, and Henry C, born Nov. 25, 1863; there is a daughter, Sarah C.. and an infant son deceased. Mr. J. N. Van Matre has held school offices ; belonged to the I. O. O. F. Lodge; she owns 42 acres, well improved; belongs to the Christian Church.
J. W. VAN MATRE, stock and grain farmer. Sec. 21; P. 0. Oneco; born in Stephenson Co., on the homestead, Oct. 28, 1838, and was a member of L. D. Van Matre's family, consisting of Joseph, Thomas J., Willard X., Mary E., now Mrs. Sagofer; Melissa, now Mrs. Arledge; Caroline, now Mrs. Rote, and Lucy P.. now Mrs. Batten. Mr. J. W. Van Matre owns 202 acres of the estate, and is engaged in raising Norman horses, and with his brother and William Raymond interested in short-horns, with which they are very successful; he has now the finest Norman mares in Stephenson Co. On Oct. 28, 1858, he married Miss Sarah E. Williams, of New York, who died 1859; he was married again in 1860, to Miss Samantha Arledge; they have five children—Dora B., L. D., T. J., Emma and Freddie N. Politics, Democrat/
T. J. VAN MATRE, stock and grain farmer, Sec. 21 ; P. 0. Oneco; born at Scales Mound. Jo Daviess Co., 111.. Feb. 16. 1834. His father. L. D. Van Matre, and his brother Thomas J., came to Stephenson Co. in 1836, and took up their claims, on which their sons now live. Of the old family, there are L. I John and Melissa now living; L. D. was born Sept. 20, 1807, and married in Jan. 13, 1831, to Miss Mary Alexander, who died Oct. 3, 1855; he married again, June 22, 1856. T. J., the subject of this sketch, together with his brother W. J., owns about 324 acres, and, in partnership with William Raymond, have imported, and are introducing, full-blood Norman horses, together with short-horn Durham cattle. In April 7, 1855. he married Miss Mary Ann French, of Ohio; they have a son living. Charles W., and one daughter, Nancy F. (deceased). His barn now standing is supposed to be the first built in this county. Politics, Democrat.
REV. O. M. VAX SWEARINGEN, Pastor of U. B. Church. Orangeville ; born in Fayette Co.. Penn.. Nov. 12, 1943; in early life lived on the farm with father; the old family were Minerva. Martin Buren, Barbara, now Mrs. Stanley. Thomas I.. Otho Miner. Martha, now Mrs. Peugh; his father and mother now live in Whiteside Co., IL. When 19 years of age, he moved to Ohio, and attended Berlin Normal Institute, and in 1862 taught a school; came to Illinois in 1863, but returned to Ohio, where he taught for ten years: entered the lecture field with his brother, Thomas., and traveled through Illinois. Indiana and Ohio. On Jan. 29. 1871, he married Miss Nattie Telford, of Chicago. Hi.; they have two children—Bertha L. and Elsie E. He worked at graining before studying for the ministry. On Jan 1, 1874, was a convert to the U. B. Church; April, 1874. he was licensed to preach ; joined the Rock River Conference at Polo, 111.; in 1875. held a charge in Lee Co. one year, and tame to Orangeville Circuit in 1877; has six appointments, and preaches three times on one Sabbath Day j has received 130 members into the U. B. Church since coming here.
E. S. WAGNER, farmer, Sec. 29; P. 0. Orangeville; born in Northumberland Co., Penn.. Feb. 14, 1833; located on Sec. 33. Oneco, in 1846, and remained til* 1866, when he sold the farm to his father and bought this farm, on which he now resides, of William Hoffman ; it contains 30 acres; he now owns 160 acres of farm land, and 141 acres of timber land. April. 1858, was married to Miss Mary C Hassinger. of Pennsylvania; has a family of five children—Ada M., Willard A., George S., Samuel G. and Ira J. Mr. Wagner has held school offices. Lutheran in religion. WILLIAM WAGENHALS, retired farmer, Orangeville; born in Wurtemberg, Germany, Aug. 21, 1822: emigrated to America in 1836; in Philadelphia, Penn., learned the bakers trade; he farmed in Lancaster and Union Co. Penn.: came West and run the Orangeville Mills for John Bower, in 1847. 1848 and 1849 ; then kept a grocery and drug store; sold out to Amos Benage in 1851; belonged to the firm of McEntee & W Tagenhals dry goods establishment; in 1865. sold to Lodigan Erb and retired from active life ; now lives on his homestead ; also owns 110 acres on Sec. 35. In 1845, he married Miss Susanna Sandoe. of Dauphin Co.. Penn.; has no children; Mr. Wagenhals' was the first Postmaster, in 1853; has been Supervisor; is now President of the Buckeye Insurance Co.; he has two sisters—Louisa Hildinger, widow, and Christiana Mussacher. also widow. Is German Lutheran in religion ; Democrat in politics.
THOMAS W. WERKHEISER, wagon-factory. Orangeville; born in Northampton Co.. Penn., July 3. 1849 ; came West with his father in 1856; also, two brothers—John H. and Nelson (deceased). In 1871, he married Miss Ruth A. Wilson, of Illinois ; there are now Melvin L., Ivan and Stella, and one dead. His brother enlisted in Co. G. 93d I. V. I., and served three years; Thomas W. was in Delmar, Plymouth Co.. Iowa, in 1873. running a wagon-shop there ; sold out and carried his business to Seney. Iowa; after two years there, returned to Stephenson Co.; in March. 1877, commenced business; his buildings are, main. 20x30. with paint-shop above, and an 16x20. for smithing; his trade is increasing rapidly; was formerly Werkheiser Scott, but now Mr. Werkheiser is sole proprietor.
MRS. BETSY WINCHELL, widow. Sec. 32; P. 0- Orangeville; was born in Erie Co.. N. Y. Sept. 9. 1801 ; owns 240 acres of land, which her husband, Ira Winchell. claimed in 1840; Mr. Winchell died May 19, 1879, aged 84 years and 14 days; was buried in Orangeville. He left a family of eight children—Susan (now Mrs. West), Clarissa (now Mrs. Hartley), Samuel (died when 14 months old), Amos (died at 2 years of age). Emma : now Mrs. Wralkey), George (now farming the estate), Hiram and Angeline (deceased). Mrs. Winchell has belonged to church for forty-six years, and. together with her husband, has always been identified with the interests of Stephenson Co.
G. W. WIRT, druggist. Orangeville; born Sept. S. 1830, in Lehigh Co., Penn.; family removed to Centre Co., where his father died in 1331. in month of February ; he worked on the farm; then moved to Greene Co., Ind.. and there went to shoe- making, opening a shop of his own ; and in the fall of 1865 came to Orangeville, and opened a shoe trade; but, his heath failing, he tried farming; but came to the village and entered the drug business. May 1, 1876 ; is the proprietor of a business worth about $4,500 per annum. On Nov. 7, 1853, he married Miss Elizabeth H. Stem, of Pennsylvania; they have no children. Lutheran in religion.
ISRAEL G. WISE, Principal of Orangeville School; his father came to Stephenson Co. in 1844, and married Mrs. Fager nee Chesta Grimo) in 1947, at Buckeye Center; soon after moved to Shut-y Mills, Green Co., Wis.; it was during his stay here that his son Israel G. was born ; on Jan. 19. 1849, the family returned to Buckeye Township, and here, in 1862-63—64, Israel G- learned wool-carding. but having prepared himself for the profession of a teacher, in 1873. went to teaching Orangeville schools, at which he is now engaged; in 1877, he was Township Clerk; in 1879, Assessor, and on Dec. 26,1871, he married Miss Mary A. Gorr, of Pennsylvania; they have two children ¦—Carrie and John ; his father, after retiring to the old homestead on Sec. 7, Buckeye Township, died on Jan. 14, 1869: his mother remained until 1379, when she also passed to a better world, December 13. Mr. Wise belongs to the Evangelical Church.
WILLIAM WOLF, farmer, Sec. 30; P. O. Orangeville; born in Centre Co., Penn., Dec. 20, 1832. May 12, 1353, was married to Miss Mary Russell, of Venango Co., Penn.; came West to Stephenson Co.. HI., in 1866, in company with James Leeman, driving a spiked team : his wife and three daughters came in 1868; located on this farm March 28, 1868; the farm, which contains 160 acres, was bought from Wilson Russell; he has held township offices. In religion, Lutheran ; the children are Rosette I, Harriet J. and Florence E.
DANIEL WOODRING, retired farmer, Orangeville; born in Northampton Co., Penn., Nov. 1, 1810; at 16 years of age. he worked on the canal. In 1836, married Miss Catherine, of Pennsylvania, who died Sept. 28, 1856, on the farm to which he had moved on coming to Stephenson Co., in 1855, on Sec. 29, Range S east. In 1860, he married Sophia Lurch, of Pennsylvania, and in 1872, sold the farm to Jacob L. Hess, and moved to Orangeville. Mr. Woodring has held township offices; was Comptroller of Highways in 1866, and is an Elder in the Reformed Church ; out of twelve children, there are eight alive—Catherine, Daniel. Violetta, John E., Peter D., Uriah, Anna C, Lucinda U-. Mary D., Emma R.. Eleanor and Adda M.; Johu belonged to the 46th I. V. I., Co. A ; returned November, 1965.