A.W. Bastian of the firm of F.K. and A>W. Bastian, publishers and proprietors of the Fulton Journal, a semi-weekly independent paper, was born in Geauga Co., Ohio, June 26, 1846 and is the son of Van S. and Ann E. Bastian. He removed to Rochester NY with his parents in 1850, and received his primary education in the schools of that city. In 1861 he came to Prophetstown, this county, where he was engaged in farming and teaching school. He subsequently removed to Bureau County, this State. Being ambitious to acquire a thorough education, while his circumstances did not justify the necessary expense, he was obliged to earn the money with which to pay his way through college. This he did in teaching school and working on a farm til he succeeded in obtaining three terms at Dover College and two at Wheaton, finally receiving a State certificate. His attendance at Wheaton occurred after he was married. He taught the Yorktown school, organized the Tampico school, graded it and served as Principal seven years.

He came to Fulton in August 1881, and purchased a half interest in the Journal office and has since devoted his entire attention to conducting that business. The history of the paper under the management of the Bastian Brothers proves that it is ably edited and that the office is conducted on sound business principles.

Mr. A.W. Bastian was married in Yorktown IL, March 4, 1872, to Miss Eva A. Patterson, daughter of Orrin and Lucy M. (Chubbuck) Patterson. Mrs. Bastian was born in Bureau Co., IL. They have one child, Sidney A. born Dec. 13, 1875. Mr. Bastian is a Democrat in his political views.

Portraits & Biographical transcribed by Christine Walters