Gilbert Rogers, a farmer residing on section 19, Prophetstown Township, is a son of William and Hannah (Wildes) Rogers, and was born in Cattaraugus Co., N. Y., Feb. 11, 1838. His father was a native of Washington County, that State, where he was born Feb. 20, 1807. His mother was likewise a native of New York, and was born in Schoharie County March 16, 1810. She died in Cattaraugus County, Dec. 12, 1865, and the father still resides there. Their children were five in number, four of whom are living. George is a farmer in New York ; Giles is a fanner and manufacturer of shingles, and resides in Randolph, Cattaraugus County, same State; Gilbert R., subject of this notice, is next in order of birth; Jane L. is the wife of Alfred J. Samples, a farmer residing in Chautauqua Co., N. Y.; Jerome, deceased, was killed at the battle of .Malvern Hill, while fighting in the 72d N. Y. Vol. Inf.

Mr. Rogers was reared on a farm, assisted in the maintenance of the family, attended the. common schools and developed into manhood. Sept. 3, 1862, he enlisted, in Randolph, N. Y., in Co. H, 154th N. Y. Vol. Inf., and served until the close of the war, receiving an honorable discharge in June, 1865. He attained to the rank of Sergeant, and participated with his company in the battles of Chancellorsville and Buzzards' Roost. After receiving his discharge he returned to the farm and worked the old homestead for a time.

Mr. Rogers was united in marriage in Randolph, N. Y., Aug-. 9, 1864, to Miss Cynthia A. Frary, daughter of Myron and Martha (Morrill) Frary. She was born in Cattaraugus Co., N. Y.. Dec. 7, 1841. Her mother is deceased, and her father resides in Portland Township, this county. Mr. and Mrs. Rogers are the parents of two children, one born in New York and one in Portland Township, this county. Frank E., born July 17, 1866, and Myron C, Dec. 15, 1877.

Mr. Rogers came to this county in 1867, and located in Portland Township, where for eight years he was engaged in the occupation-of farming, on rented land. He is at present the owner of 38 acres, has a nice residence and his place is well improved. He has held numerous offices, among which were Justice of the Peace in Portland Township four years, Commissioner of Highways three years, during one of which, in 1884, he was Treasurer; he has held the position of School Trustee for two years and is at present acting in that capacity. He is also Secretary of the Prophetstown Farmers' Mutual Insurance Company. In the spring of 1885, Mr. Rogers was elected Supervisor of his township.

Transcribed by Christine Walters from Portraits and Biographical Whiteside Co IL 1885