Ephraim Brookfield was born in Genesee County NY. He went to California in 1849; when he returned he attended school at Knox College, Galesburg. He afterwards taught school several years. He married Harriet Yager in September 1859. Children: Louis E born June 6 1860, Fannie M born December 29 1863; Ellen T born November 17 1872 and Dora born September 12 1874. Fannie M died March 22 1875. Mr Brookfield was clerk in the store of J T Crum at Genesee Grove. He afterwards became a partner, and finally bought out Crum, carrying on the business in his own name at Coleta for 14 years. During all this time he labored with an energy and tact that but few men possess. In 1874 he sold the stock and building to H S Wickey and commenced banking in Rock Falls on his own capital. His health failing, he was compelled to seek a warmer climate. He went to Florida, but died January 10, 1876 and was buried in the Sterling Cemetery.
Extracted from Bent & Wilson History of Whiteside County Page 227
