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The Biographical Record of DeWitt County, Illinois, Illustrated.
Chicago: The S. J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1901.

Submitted by Judy Simpson

Note: These biographies were transcribed as written and may contain errors. We welcome your corrections concerning factual data. Just send an e-mail to the  County  Coordinator, and be sure to give us your name and return e-mail address.

CHARLES R. ADAIR. (Volume 1, Page 118) 

Among the legal profession of DeWitt country are many brilliant and brainy men, but to-day there are none that stand higher in the esteem of the people than the gentleman whose name introduces this biography. Although a comparatively young man he has rapidly forged to the front in his chosen profession and there are few, if any, that have brighter prospects than Charles R. Adair.

A native of Logan county, he was born March 11, 1868, and is a son of James M. and Sarah J. (Barr) Adair, who at that time was a leading farmer of Logan county, Illinois, but who removed with his family to DeWitt county when our subject was a small child. Here he carried on farming and stock-raising until 1896, when he returned to Logan county, where he has taken up farming and where he is now residing.

The early education of our subject was obtained in the common schools of this county, and was supplemented by a course in the Northwestern University. He then engaged in teaching, which occupation he followed one year. At the end of that time he entered the Kent Law School, of Chicago, where he was graduated in 1894. Immediately thereafter he came to Clinton, where he opened an office and engaged in the practice of law for five years. In July, 1899, he formed a partnership with Fred Ball, and for six months they were associated together. At the end of this period Mr. Adair took charge of the Clinton Daily and Weekly Times, which he continued to edit for one year, when he again embarked in the practice of law.

On August 14, 1895, Mr. Adair led to the marriage alter Miss Mary A., daughter of Jiles S. Town, of Easton, Illinois. As a result of this union two children have been born: Charles T. and Mary Ellen.

Since attaining his majority, Mr. Adair was a staunch supporter of the men and measures of the Republican party until 1896, since which time he has voted and supported the principles of the Democracy and is now secretary of the county Democratic central committee. In 1898 he was the Democratic candidate for county judge, and he has always taken an active and influential part in public affairs. Upright, reliable and honorable, his strict adherence to principles commands the respect of all. The place that he has won in the legal profession is accorded him in recognition of his skill and ability, and the place which he occupies in the social world is a tribute to that genius, worth and true nobleness of character which are universally recognized and honored.

Both Mr. and Mrs. Adair are active members of the Methodist Episcopal church of Clinton, and since 1895 Mr. Adair has been a member of the official board and is now serving as steward.

FRANK ADKISSON. (Volume 1, Page 357) 

Frank Adkisson, special agent of the Phenix [sic] Insurance Company at Clinton, is one of the DeWitt county's native sons, his birth having occurred in Clintonia township, July 19, 1860. His father, John Adkisson, was born in Tennessee, in 1819, and about 1830 came to Illinois. He first located in Winchester, Scott county, but in 1857 came to Clinton, DeWitt county, and purchased the property now owned by Dr. Warner. On selling that place to Aaron Negely [Nagely], he bought a larger farm, now owned by J. T. Sprague, and there he made his home until his death, which occurred in 1871. He married Corrilla Thomas, who was born in Kentucky in 1820, and died in 1887. Their children were Thomas Benton, a resident of California; Mary, deceased; twins, who died in infancy; Ellen and George, both deceased; Horace, of Clinton; Frank, our subject; William, deceased; and a daughter, who died in infancy.

The early life of Frank Adkisson was passed upon a farm, and he became agent for the Phenix Insurance Company, and so successful was he in this business that he was made special agent in 1890, his territory being central and northern Illinois, though he practically does business all over the state, ranking second in 1901 among the representatives of that company in Illinois.

Mr. Adkisson married Miss Anna Seward, of Hillsboro, Illinois. Her father, Clarence S. Seward, was born in Hillsboro, Montgomery county, December 25, 1831, and is a son of Israel A. Seward and grandson of John Seward. The latter was a native of Albany, New York, and a surveyor by profession. He spent his last days in Illinois, and died in Hillsboro, at the age of eighty-four years. His children were Butler, Israel, Harrison, Jane, Maria and Nancy. Israel Seward was also born in Albany, New York, and from there went to Morristown, New Jersey. In 1818 he came to Vandalia, Illinois, and for some time was a surveyor in the employ of the government. Subsequently he located in Hillsboro, where he died in 1868, at the age of seventy-four years. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Margaret Slayback, was born in Kentucky in 1799, and died in 1877. He owned and operated different farms in this state, and participated in the Black Hawk war. In his family were the following children: William, George, Charles, Henry, Caroline, Clarence S., James, Frances, Edward, Cornelia and Martha. Clarence S. Seward, the father of Mrs. Adkisson, was reared on a farm, and in 1849 went overland to California, where he spent ten years in mining and other work. On his return to Illinois, in 1860, he followed farming near Hillsboro until 1895, when he removed to Clinton.

In politics he is a Republican, and in religious belief is a Presbyterian. He married Sarah Vrooman, a daughter of Minard Vrooman, of Fundy, New York, and to them were born four children: Freddit, who died young; Anna, deceased wife of our subject; Agnes, wife of J. Miller; and Sylvia, deceased. Mrs. Adkisson died in 1900, at the age of thirty-two years, leaving one child, Leah A.

Mr. Adkisson has never taken any part in political affairs, preferring to give his undivided attention to his business interests. Socially he is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Knights of Pythias and the Modern Woodmen of America, and also belongs to the blue lodge, chapter and commandery of the Masonic fraternity, having been made a Knight Templar at Litchfield, Illinois, in 1883, being at that time the youngest member of the commandery there. His close application to business compels him at times to take needed rest, and on these occasions he indulges his love for the rod and reel, spending his vacations near the beautiful waters of northern Wisconsin. As a fisherman he has met wonderful success, and he has a fine specimen of muscalonge, weighing twenty pounds, which he caught and has mounted as a trophy. He has a nice home in Clinton, surrounded by spacious grounds, having purchased the Philip Wolfe property.

ANDREW ALLAN. (Volume 1, Page 58) 

Among the many prominent and enterprising men who have helped to raise the state of Illinois to its proud prestige as one of the most prolific agricultural regions of the Union is Andrew Allan, A Scotchman by birth, training and characteristics, an American by adoption, assimilation and adaptability, an agriculturist and resident of Weldon, and a citizen whose success is limited only by his years of activity. A native of Ayrshire, Scotland, home of the immortal Burns, he was born December 27, 1830, a son of Thomas and Grace (Stirling) Allan, who came to America in 1858 and located in Randolph county, Illinois. The parents removed in 1867, to Nixon township, DeWitt county, Illinois, and purchased a tract of eighty acres of land with growing crops for twenty-five dollars an acre, the proceeds from the crops practically paying for the land at the end of four months. They continued to live in DeWitt county until the death of the father September 18, 1872. Of the children in the family, Grace, who is the wife of Alexander Brown, lives in Randolph county, as does also William and James Allan, while David and Alexander live in Nixon township. Thomas, who is a bachelor, lives in Scotland, frequently visits his people in Illinois, and has crossed the Atlantic twenty-six times for that purpose. The maternal grandfather of the children, Alexander Stirling, was a farmer of Ayrshire, Scotland, and was prominent in affairs of the Presbyterian church, in which he was an elder.

It may be said that Andrew Allan was reared by his grandfather, with whom he was a special favorite, and he received a liberal and practical education in the public schools. At the age of seventeen he located at Bridgewater, England, and for nearly twenty years was engaged in the dry-goods business with great success, and during this time he made frequent trips to America to visit his people and naturally became interested in the prosperous conditions there prevailing. On different occasions he purchased property in Nixon township, and finally, when his interests in Illinois became greater than those in England, he decided to locate in the midst of the greater responsibilities, and took up his residence in Nixon township, DeWitt county, in 1883. Since then he has been foremost in agricultural matters, and owns six farms comprising the best land in Nixon township, aggregating eight hundred and twenty acres in all. He also owns a farm of one hundred and sixty acres in DeWitt township, and a farm of eighty acres in Willow Branch township, Piatt county. For six years of his residence in Illinois he engaged in the coal and lumber business at Weldon, and retired from the same in the fall of 1901. His splendid and systematic management of his affairs allows of considerable leisure on his part, and as a reward for his ability and hard work he travels much, and observes keenly and intelligently. For several years he has escaped the biting blasts of Illinois winters by going to the salubrious climate of the Gulf of Mexico, in the vicinity of New Orleans, and he also spent one season in Oklahoma.

The first marriage of Mr. Allan was solemnized in 1866, with Caroline Denhem, of Langport, Somersetshire, England, and who died April 18, 1895. A second marriage was contracted May 12, 1896, with Charity, daughter of Robert and Eliza (Walker) Flood, early settlers of this county. Mrs. Allan is a native of DeWitt county, and for fourteen years previous to her marriage was engaged in educational work. She is a most refined and cultured woman, and is prominent in the affairs of the Methodist Protestant church, of Weldon. Mr. Allan is a Presbyterian in religious belief, although he is an attendant and supporter of the Methodist Protestant church. In national politics he is Independent.

EDWARD ALLYN. (Volume 1, Page 140) 

Many of DeWitt county's adopted sons served faithfully during the war of the Rebellion, and among this number is the gentleman whose name introduces this review. He is one of Clinton's most esteemed citizens and one of the oldest public school teachers of DeWitt county, having taught thirty-two terms in twelve different schools.

Edward Allyn first saw the light of day in Portage county, Ohio, where he was born, December 17, 1837, son of Palatiah and Angeline (Joslin) Allyn, both of whom were of old New England ancestry. His father was born in Barkhamsted, Connecticut, and his mother is a native of Rutland, Vermont. When our subject's father was but a child he was brought to Ohio where he and his father spent the remainder of their days as farmers.

Palatiah Allyn learned the carpenter's trade and settled at Hiram, Ohio, where he took the contract for building Hiram College, and most of his work in this line was done at that place and Garrettsville.

Edward Allyn began his intellectual training in the common schools of his native county, which was supplemented by a course in Hiram College, graduating from that institution in 1859. The same year he came to DeWitt county, Illinois, where he secured a position as teacher in the Excelsior school, Harp township. During the following summer he worked as a farm hand and in the fall taught in Wapella township. At the close of this term he took a special normal course for teaching at Normal, Illinois. Just at this time the country was thoroughly aroused and Mr. Allyn showed his loyalty and patriotism by enlisting in August, 1861, in the Company A, Thirty-third Illinois Volunteer Infantry. He served four years and four months during the latter part of which he served as clerk. His regiment took part in many important engagements and our subject was always found where duty called him.

On his return to DeWitt county he again took up the profession of teaching in Clintonia township. Later he taught in DeWitt and Barnett townships and four terms in McLean county, Illinois. His thirty-second and last term was taught in Clintonia township.

In the early eighties he served three years in Clinton and the same length of time in Bement as agent for the Pacific Express Company.

It is as a teacher that Mr. Allyn is best known to the citizens of his adopted county. His was the model school-room, ruled by kindness and not by rod. The old saying, "Spare the rod and spoil the child," was not his motto. He was at all times gentle but firm with his students and to-day he is held in the highest esteem by all those who know him best.

Our subject received a part of his mental training under the able teaching of James A. Garfield long before that noble and grand man was called upon to serve as president of this great commonwealth and it was under his pastorate that he was converted and baptized, becoming a member of the Christian church in 1857.

On March 18, 1867, he was united in marriage with Mrs. Adelia F. Thomas, widow of John E. Thomas, who was a farmer by occupation and a veteran of the Civil war, serving two years as a member of Company F, Forty-first Illinois Volunteer Infantry. He was discharged on account of sickness as a result of exposure at Fort Donelson and from the effects of which he died, June 6, 1864, aged twenty-three years. By his marriage one son, John E., was born. He died aged on year.

Mrs. Allyn is a daughter of Thomas S. Hutcherson, who was a native of Green county, Kentucky. He came to Illinois in 1850, where he bought and engaged in farming, and to DeWitt county in 1855, and started the first hack line ever in the city. His wife, Susan (Henry) Hutcherson, was a direct descendant of Patrick Henry.

To our subject and his wife has been born one child, Nellie, born July 17, 1872, who died aged three years, six months, thirteen days. Mrs. Allyn is a member and president of the Woman's Relief Corps, and both Mr. and Mrs. Allyn are devout members of the Christian church.

During the past several years Mr. Allyn has acted as correspondent to the city press and local papers. He has also written many interesting articles on the early settlement of this county and at the present time is a representative of the Union Publishing Company of Chicago, publishers of scientific works.

Twenty-eight years ago Mr. Allyn bought lots and built a small house where his present commodious home now stands, surrounded by beautiful shade trees, making an ideal place in which to spend their remaining days. He is a prominent and active member of the Grand Army Post of Clinton, and its present commander, in which order he has served in the various other offices. Pre-eminently public-spirited, he has always done all in his power to further the advancement along educational lines of DeWitt county.

CHARLES FINNEY AMSDEN. (Volume 1, Page 313) 

During the few short years that Charles Finney Amsden was numbered among the leading business men of Clinton, he won the esteem of all here and his death was widely mourned. Before coming here he was engaged in the banking business and was also largely interested in a creamery enterprise at Manchester, Iowa. When Henry Magill's health failed he urged Mr. Amsden, his son-in-law, to come to Clinton and assist him in his business. Accordingly he severed other business relations and removed to this place, but his own health, never robust, soon began to fail. On the death of Mr. Magill, he purchased a half interest in the dry-goods store formerly owned by Magill Brothers, and the other half was sold to William Funk, at which time the firm name of Amsden & Funk was assumed. Three years later Mr. Funk sold his interest to A. H. Magill, and under the new management the business was successfully continued. During the winter of 1886-7 Mr. Amsden's health failed and he went to Hot Springs, Arkansas. He also traveled extensively, hoping to be benefited thereby, but death came to him on the 21st of December, 1888, at the home of his parents.

In the fall of 1882 Mr. Amsden married Miss Hattie Eliza Magill, a daughter of the late Henry Magill, whose name is inseparably interwoven with the substantial development and upbuilding of this portion of Illinois. Mr. Amsden was a man of rare intellectual accomplishments and he possessed that culture and knowledge which only travel can bring. He had several times been abroad and in foreign lands he had gleaned many interesting facts and anecdotes, which enriched his conversation and made him a most entertaining companion. His social, genial nature and manly worth also made him very popular. His death was a great loss to Clinton, not only on account of his excellent business ability, which contributed to the commercial prosperity, but also on account of his social nature and his patriotic citizenship. He was an active member of the Masonic lodge, and in his life exemplified the beneficent spirit of the fraternity. Mrs. Amsden now lives with her mother in Clinton.

(See obituary)

SAMUEL MORTON ARGO. (Volume 1, Page 468) 

This well known and highly esteemed citizen of Lincoln, Illinois, was born on the 1st of September, 1836, in New Richmond, Clermont county, Ohio, and is of Scotch and French descent. On coming to America his ancestors located in New Jersey, and from there removed to Virginia. Later the family made their home in Ohio, and its representatives heave since lived in Indiana and Illinois. Moses Argo, the paternal grandfather of our subject, was born in New Jersey, February 15, 1770, and died in Cleves, Indiana, June 20, 1842. By occupation he was a farmer. His wife bore the maiden name of Sarah Bruen and was born March 18, 1779. Their children were Libbie, Lucinda, Alexander, Ebenezer, Anna, Elizabeth, William and Sarah.

Alexander Argo, our subject's father, was born in Hamilton county, Ohio, September 13, 1807, and was reared by his uncle, Robert Watkins, a wagon maker, with whom he served a regular apprenticeship. He traded his property in Ohio for a large stock of spinning wheels, which he shipped down the Ohio river and up the Mississippi and Illinois rivers, and thence overland to Clinton, where he put them together and sold them to the pioneers, this being the first lot of wheels brought in to this section of the state. This was in 1842. Being well pleased with the country Mr. Argo moved his family to Clinton in 1844 and opened a wagon shop on the corner of Madison and Jefferson streets. He was the first wagon maker to locate here, and so durable were the wagons which he manufactured that some are still in existence. On his first visit to the county in 1840 he purchased of Jesse Fell a tract of land adjoining Clinton on the east, and successfully carried on farming and stock-raising in connection with his other business. He amassed quite a fortune, owning several farms at the time of his death, which occurred August 8, 1883. He was an active member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and gave liberally to the erection of the house of worship. In politics he was first a Whig and later a Republican. In early manhood he married Miss Eliza A. Walraven, who was born in Clermont county, Ohio, September 19, 1815, and died August 17, 1899. His death occurred in Clinton in 1883. Unto this worthy couple were born the following children: Philena P., who was born August 1, 1835, and married L. Campbell; Samuel Morton, our subject; Emanuel Grubb, born August 17, 1838; Thomas J., born July 12, 1841; William, born March 20, 1844; and Martin Luther, who was born July 5, 1848, and died January 20, 1849. Those living are residents of Clinton.

During his majority, Samuel M. Argo remained upon the home farm and in 1859 went overland to Pike's Peak, Colorado, and during the long trip, which lasted many weeks, had several thrilling encounters with the Indians. He followed mining for two years and then returned home. In the fall of 1862 Mr. Argo offered his services to the government to assist in putting down the rebellion, but failed to pass the physical examination on account of defective hearing. He then turned his attention to farming, buying a place of his father in Clintonia township, which he greatly improved and sold in 1870, it being now the property of William Fuller. For the past twenty years he has efficiently filled the position of superintendent of Colonel Thomas Snell's large estate adjoining Clinton, having charge of five thousand acres of farming land. The erection of new buildings and the remodeling of others has all been done under his supervision, and his long retention in so responsible a position plainly indicates his ability and the confidence and trust reposed in him. His has been a very active and busy life, and he has acquired some valuable property. He has been elected collector and commissioner of highways on the independent ticket, and filled the latter office nine years.

Mr. Argo has been twice married, his first union being with Miss Permelia A. Rogers, a daughter of Robert P. Rogers, of Clinton. She was born March 15, 1840, and died July 7, 1881. By this marriage were born seven children, namely: William B., born October 5, 1862, became an engineer, and was killed in a wreck at Guthrie, Illinois, July 20, 1892; Martin Luther, born July 30, 1864, married Annie Hull and follows farming; Eliza Ann, born October 5, 1866, is at home; Harriet, born March 30, 1868, is the widow of William Fuller and has two children, William and Helen; Alexander, born February 9, 1870, married Iva Dunham and his children are Annie, John and Alexander; Thomas, born April 9, 1875, died April 9, 1876; and Philena, born December 6, 1876, died May 14, 1881. For his second wife Mr. Argo married Miss Mary F. Weddle, daughter of John Weddle, of Kentucky. She died January 15, 1890, leaving three children: Samuel M., born July 19, 1884; James Sargent, born February 19, 1887; and David, born March 13, 1889.

WILLIAM ARGO. (Volume 1, Page 201) 

Prominent among the business men of Clinton is William Argo, who throughout life has been closely identified with the interests of the city, and is now president of the State Bank at that place. He was born on the 20th of March, 1844, in the city where he still resides, and is a son of Alexander and Eliza A. (Walraven) Argo. His paternal grandfather was Moses Argo, who was born in New Jersey, of French ancestry, and from that state removed to Virginia and later to Ohio. He was a farmer by occupation and a soldier of the war of 1812.

Alexander Argo, the father of our subject, was born in the Buckeye state in 1807, and was reared by his uncle, Robert Watkins, with whom he served a regular apprenticeship to the wagonmaker's trade, which he continued to follow to some extent throughout his active business life. He acquired some property in Ohio, which he traded for a lot of spinning wheels, and these he shipped by boat down the Ohio river and up the Mississippi and Illinois rivers to Pekin, this state. They were then brought overland to Clinton and sold throughout this section, many being still found in DeWitt county. Mr. Argo first visited this locality in 1840, and purchased the old homestead of Daniel Newcomb, but did not locate permanently here until 1844, when he opened a wagon shop in Clinton and made by hand the first and most substantial wagons used by the pioneers of the vicinity. He also devoted some time to the cultivation and improvement of the property purchased in 1840. Being a man of good business ability and sound judgment, he acquired a fortune, and was regarded as one of the leading citizens of Clinton. The railroad now passes over the site of his second shop. He had just begun the erection of this when the railroad was surveyed, and, as it passed over the site, he moved it up town, where after a time it was occupied by R. R. Craig. In early life Mr. Argo was a member of the Methodist church, and was instrumental in establishing and building the church in Clinton, of which he was an active member until death. In politics he was first a Whig and later a Republican. He died at his home on the corner of Madison and Jefferson streets in 1883, honored and respected by all who knew him. His estimable wife, who was born September 19, 1815, in Clermont county, Ohio, passed away August 17, 1899. They were the parents of six children, namely: Mrs. Philena Campbell; Samuel M.; Emanuel G.; Thomas J.; William, our subject; and Martin Luther, who died in infancy.

William Argo received his early training upon the home farm and obtained his literary education in the public schools of the neighborhood. In 1876 he embarked in the ice business with his brother Emanuel, and continued to carry on that business in Clinton until 1899, when he sold out. The brothers own considerable real estate, including eighty acres of fine farming land on section 9, Harp township, and two hundred and sixty-five acres on section 32 and 33, the same township. On the 1st of July, 1890, he assisted in the establishment of the State Bank of Clinton, which was organized with a capital of fifty-thousand dollars. Its first officers were Thomas H. Slick, president; Dr. J. N. Wilcox, vice-president; and James H. Harrison, cashier. Later Mr. Slick was succeeded by Thomas M. Levett as president, and since then J. B. Holderman and D. T. Gay have also filled that office, while Mr. Argo has served in that capacity since 1898. Dr. Wilcox has always been vice-president, and the other officers at the present time are Lewis Murphy, cashier; George G. Argo, assistant cashier; and A. R. Young, bookkeeper. The bank purchased a new block erected by John G. Cackley, and have built a fire and burglar-proof vault with deposit boxes and a time-lock safe. It is now in a flourishing condition and is considered one of the most reliable financial institutions of the county. Its success is certainly due in a large measure to Mr. Argo, who is one of the most conservative business men and ablest financiers of Clinton. He is a man of keen discrimination and sound judgment and in all his undertakings has been quite successful. He occupies a prominent position in business circles and is a worthy representative of an old and honored family of DeWitt county.

JOSEPH ARMSTRONG. (Volume 1, Page 303) 

Joseph Armstrong, who is familiarly called Uncle Joe by his numerous friends, owns and operates a well-improved and valuable farm, pleasantly located on section 2, Wapella township, within a half mile of the village of Wapella. He has made his home in DeWitt county since 1855 and dates his residence in the state from 1853.

A native of England, Mr. Armstrong was born in Cumberlandshire, on Christmas eve, 1829, and is a son of Joseph and Ann (Hatherton) Armstrong. The mother died in that country and about 1859 the father came to America, and spent the remainder of his life in Clinton, Illinois. At one time he started for California, but on reaching Omaha, Nebraska, he retraced his steps and again took up his residence in Clinton, where he died when about eighty-one years of age. He married his third wife in this country, and she survived him, dying in 1890.

Mr. Armstrong, whose name introduces this review, grew to manhood upon a farm in his native land, and as his school privileges were limited in early life, he is almost wholly a self-educated, as well as a self-made man. In 1853 he took passage at Liverpool on the Ocean Herald, an American sailing vessel, and made what was then considered a quick trip of twenty-eight days, arriving in New York in June of that year. He came direct to Illinois, and celebrated his first 4th of July in Bloomington. For a short time he worked for Jesse Fell, a blacksmith of Normal, and was then employed as a farm hand by the month in Piatt county, where he spent two years.

In 1855, as previously stated, Mr. Armstrong came to DeWitt county, where he worked by the month several years, and later engaged in farming on rented land for some years. His first purchase consisted of eighty acres on section 35, Wapella township, which was then but slightly improved, and to its further development and cultivation he has since devoted his energies. He has added to this a tract of thirty-six and a half acres, has tiled and fenced the land, has built a large, neat residence, barn and out-buildings, and to-day has a well-improved and beautiful farm. In connection with general farming he is also engaged in stock-raising.

Mr. Armstrong was married in this county to Miss Ellen Stafford, who was also born and reared in England and came to the new world when a young woman. They have only one child living; Isaac, who is married and now operates the home farm for his father. Joseph, another son, died in infancy, while Elizabeth, the only daughter, grew to mature years and married Harry Mabie, and died leaving one child, Maud Elizabeth, who finds a home with her grandparents.

Politically Mr. Armstrong is a Republican, but he has never cared for office, preferring to give his undivided attention to his farming interests. He came to the new world empty-handed and began life among strangers with no money to aid him, but by his own labor and enterprise he has met with success, and is now the owner of a good property. He has also won the confidence and esteem of those with whom he has come in contact by his upright, honorable course in life.

WILLIAM ARMSTRONG. (Volume 1, Page 163) 

England has furnished to the United States many bright, enterprising young men, who have left the British empire to enter the business circles of this country with its more progressive methods, livelier competition and advancement more rapidly secured. Among this number is William Armstrong. He inherited somewhat of the strong, rugged, persevering and plodding characteristics developed by his early environment, which, coupled by the livelier impulses of his celtic blood, made him at an early day seek wider fields in which to give full scope to his ambition and industry—his dominate qualities. He found the opportunity he sought in the freedom and appreciation in the growing western portion of the country. Though born across the broad Atlantic, he is a thorough American in thought and feeling, and his patriotism and love for the stars and stripes is fully demonstrated by his valiant service during the war of the Rebellion. His career is identified with the growth and development of DeWitt county, where he has not only acquired fortune but where he is one of the most highly respected citizens.

As stated, our subject is a native of England, born in Cumberland county, July 26, 1831, and is a son of Joseph and Anna (Hetherington) Armstrong. The former was born at Barnett's Castle, Scotland, and the latter was a native of Cumberland county. She became the mother of five children: George, Joseph, Jane, William, deceased, and William, our subject. The mother of these children died when in the prime of life, and for his second wife the father of our subject married Jane Shimmean, and as a result of this union the following children were born: John, Elizabeth, Thomas and James. After the death of his second wife he married Mary Ann Malson. Both are now deceased.

The first of the Armstrong family to come to this country was a brother of our subject, George, who in 1852 located in DeWitt county. He was followed by Joseph in 1854, and William, whose name introduces this review, located here in 1856.

Prior to the emigration of William Armstrong to this county he had received a very good education in his native country, after the completion of which he worked as a farm hand and also as a brakeman on the New Castle & Carlisle Railroad. The first two months after his arrival in this country he worked as a farm hand, and in 1858 he began farming on shares in Clintonia township. Later he moved to Barnett township, where he was farming on rented land at the breaking out of the Civil war. Like so many of our foreign born citizens, he manifested his patriotism by enlisting, on August 1, 1862, in Company D, One Hundred and Seventh Volunteer Infantry, but later he was transferred to Battery K, under the command of John H. Calvin, of Chicago. He participated in several important engagements, and at the battle of Bean Station, December 14, 1863, he was seriously injured in the hip and incapacitated for further active service, and at Knoxville, Tennessee, on June 19, 1865, he was mustered out of the service of the United States and paid off at Springfield, Illinois. During his term of enlistment his devotion to his country was fully tested. He was a gallant soldier, and on the field of action was always found ready and willing to do his duty. He is now a member of the Grand Army Post of Clinton, in which he has served as chaplain and is now senior vice-commander.

On November 14, 1858, Mr. Armstrong was united in marriage with Miss Eliza Ann M. Sprague, who was born in Ohio, a daughter of Charles L. and Mary (Watkins) Sprague. Her father was a native of Vermont, and soon after his marriage removed to Ohio and later to DeWitt county, where he purchased a farm, which he improved and placed under a high state of cultivation, and where he died in 1877. In addition to this he owned two other fine farms. The old homestead is now owned and occupied by his son. His first wife departed this life in March, 1866, at the age of fifty-two years. For his second wife Mr. Sprague married Julia A. Smith. By the first marriage he became the father of the following children: Frances; Eliza; Mary L.; Samuel; Peter; Rebecca; Joseph; Margaret; John; James; Brazella; and Ruth. There were no children by his second marriage.

To Mr. and Mrs. Armstrong have been born the following named children: (1) Charles J., who was born September 2, 1859, and died in 1891. He married Miss Molly Smith and she died October 24, 1900. They became the parents of three children: Freddie; Maudie; and Lillian. (2) George B., born May 18, 1862, is a farmer and stock-raiser of DeWitt county. He married Miss Margaret Roben, and to them have been born eight children: Walter; Rena; Sylvia; Eliza; Goldie; Devery; Robert; and Ruby S. (3) William H., born May 20, 1866, is one of the young and prominent farmers and stock-raisers of DeWitt county. Miss Edith Baker became his wife. As a result of this union the following children have been born: William; Harry; Joseph; Grace; Hiram; and Blanche. Two others died in infancy. (4) Edward J., born June 15, 1868, is also engaged in farming and stock-raising in this county. He married Emma Mathews and they have three children: William; Wesley; and Georgie. (5) John T., born May 14, 1870, married Miss Leoria Alwood. They have four children: May; Louise; Floy; and Marie. He is a farmer by occupation. (6) Jacob M., born August 21, 1872, died March 7, 1874. (7) Robert S., born October 2, 1874, married Miss Rose Bailey, and they have two children, Charles and Leland. He is also engaged in agricultural pursuits in this county. (8) Warren Wesley, born October 8, 1876, enlisted in the Spanish-American war May 4, 1898. Soon after going into camp at Lexington, Kentucky, he was taken ill with fever and discharged, August 28, 1898. Soon after his recovery he re-enlisted, January 5, 1899, and was sent to Manila from California. He crossed the Suez canal, and, in all, has traveled about fourteen thousand miles. During this time he has participated in several important engagements, and is now quartermaster's mounted orderly with the Fourth United States Regulars, Company H. (9) Moses E., born March 25, 1878, died September 25, 1879. (10) Mary A., born February 20, 1880, died in infancy. (11) Alice E., born April 3, 1881, graduated from the Clinton high school in the class of 1901.

After the return of William Armstrong from the war he purchased a tract of land in Barnett township, and with the characteristic energy that has marked his pathway through life he at once began the cultivation of the same. He also entered into the business of raising horses, cattle and hogs for market, and in this as well as in his farming operations he has prospered. With the help of his father-in-law he erected large and substantial buildings, and as his means allowed he supplied his farm with all the conveniences and accessories necessary to carry on the business, and in his undertakings he has steadily prospered, meeting with more than ordinary success, so that he was able to lay aside the more active duties of life and remove to the city of Clinton, where he now resides.

Since early manhood William Armstrong has been an active member and an earnest worker in the Methodist Episcopal church. For many years he has been a class-leader and trustee, and in 1889 he was sent as a delegate to the World's Sunday-school Convention, which was held in London, England, and in 1890 was a delegate to the International Sunday-school Convention, which convened at Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. He was also a delegate to the state convention which was held at Jacksonville, this state, in 1858.

Such, in brief outline, is the history of William Armstrong, who when a young man came to this country with a British shilling and full of determination to make his life a success. His fondest dreams have been realized and to-day he is enabled to lay aside all business cares and spend his last years in ease and quiet. It is a just reward for a busy life, and when he is finally called to his final rest he will not only be sadly missed by his own immediate family but by all with whom he has come in contact.

CHARLES WALKER ATCHISON. (Volume 2, Page 256) 

Among the prosperous and substantial farmers of Waynesville township there is probably none more energetic or thorough-going than the gentleman whose name introduces this sketch. Walker Atchison, as he is familiarly called, now owns and operates a large and valuable farm on section thirty-one, including the old homestead where he was born on the 17th of April, 1842. His ancestors on the paternal side were of English and Scotch extraction and were early settlers of Virginia. His father, Isham Atchison, was born in that state, in 1804, and was a son of George Atchison, also a native of the Old Dominion. At an early day the family removed to Kentucky, where they were numbered among the pioneers, and where Isham Atchison grew to manhood and wedded Miss Mary Crawford, a native of that state. They continued to make their home there until after the birth of three of their children, and then came to Illinois in 1833, locating in DeWitt county, where the father entered some land and bought more, it being now the property of our subject. The first home of the family in this county was a rude cabin, which was later replaced by a more substantial structure of hewed logs. A number of years later the present residence was built and many other useful and valuable improvements have been made as time has passed until it is now a most attractive and desirable farm. In early life the father of our subject learned the blacksmith's trade, and after coming to this county did his own work in that line. He died here in 1880, honored and respected by all who knew him. The mother departed this life in 1866, leaving five children, namely: George, now deceased; John T., who is living with his brother on the old home farm; Charles Walker, of this review; David, a resident of Waynesville; and Mrs. Elizabeth Eskew, of Peoria, Illinois.

Walker Atchison never left the parental roof, and at an early age took charge of the farm and business for his father, who was getting well along in years. Later he bought the interests of some of the heirs and succeeded to the farm, and has since added to his landed possessions until he now has four hundred and thirty-five acres of very valuable land. The house where our subject now lives and which is now one of the large and substantial country houses of the county, was built in 1840, and in it our subject was born, and while many improvements have been made, it is yet practically the same as the year it was built.

On the 1st of September, 1864, in Logan county, Mr. Atchison was united in marriage with Miss Maria Hull, who died July 11, 1865, leaving one son, Isham Johnson, who was reared on the home farm and educated in the schools of Waynesville. He married Miss Vina Gambrel, a daughter of William Gambrel, one of the prominent men of Barnett township, this county, and they have one child, Ethel. For his second wife our subject married Miss Fanny Gordon, of Logan county, who died January 29, 1871, and the only child born of that union, Bertha G., died at the age of two years. The last wife of Mr. Atchison was Mrs. Sarah A. Groves, who died August 23, 1892.

Mr. Atchison and his brothers are all stanch supporters of the men and measures of the Republican party, and both John and Walker cast their first presidential ballots for Abraham Lincoln, the former in 1860, and the latter in 1864. They are active members of the Methodist Episcopal church of Waynesville, of which our subject has been a trustee for some years, and they are among the most highly respected and honored citizens of the community in which they have so long made their home and are so widely known.

ISAAC N. BAILOR. (Volume 1, Page 252) 

Among the leading business men of Clinton none are more deserving of mention in this volume than Isaac N. Bailor, the senior member of the firm of Bailor & Bryant, dealers in all kinds of hardware, agricultural implements, wagons, buggies, etc. They carry a large stock, utilizing three floors, and have a tine shop and plumbing establishment in connection with their store.

Mr. Bailor was born near Lancaster, Ohio, on the 26th of April, 1850, and is a son of Lewis R. and Charlotte (Martin) Bailor, who were also natives of that state and were farming people. The father died in his forty-seventh year, the mother in her fifty-sixth year, as she passed away in 1877. They were the parents of eight children, namely: Catherine, wife of S. J. Thomas; Rebecca, deceased wife of Reuben Barnett; Louisa, wife of William Moore; Isaac N., our subject; Ellen, wife of J. Lysinger; Annie, wife of A. Abbott; Jennie, wife of W. Pierce; and John M., deceased.

Our subject remained upon the home farm, giving his father the benefit of his labors until twenty-five years of age, and then engaged in the grocery business in Shelbyville, Illinois, for one year. In 1876 he came to DeWitt county, Illinois, and rented a farm in DeWitt township, which he operated quite successfully, at the same time giving considerable attention to the raising of horses, hogs and short horn cattle. In 1883 he removed to Clinton and purchased an interest in his present business, which was established by Philip Wolf in 1872. Later the firm became Wolf & McHenry, and when Mr. Bailor purchased Mr. Wolf's interest the name was changed to McHenry & Bailor. In 1891 Mr. Newman succeeded Mr. McHenry, and he, in turn, was succeeded by John F. Bryant in September 1900, since which time business has been carried on under the firm name of Bailor & Bryant. Upright and reliable business men, they command a liberal share of the public patronage, and to-day enjoy an excellent trade which is constantly increasing. Besides his business property Mr. Bailor owns a fine residence at No. 513 North Center street, which was erected by him.

Mr. Bailor married Miss Orilla Lemon. Her father, Colonel George B. Lemon, was born in Clark county, Ohio, October 1, 1809, and was a son of John R. and Rebecca Lemon. John R. Lemon was a farmer by occupation and served as judge of the county court for several years. Colonel Lemon first married Miss Charity Swisher, also a native of Clark county, Ohio, and by that union he had six children, five of whom reached man and womanhood. The wife and mother died in 1843, and the following year the Colonel wedded Mary J. Woods, and of this union there were six children, all living. He came to DeWitt county, Illinois, just before the deep snow in 1831, and in 1837 was chosen colonel of the state militia, which position he held until 1848, taking an active part in raising troops for the Mexican war, with the exception of about one year, during which time he conducted a drug store in Clinton. He was a stanch Republican and a local preacher of the Methodist Episcopal church. He died in January, 1886. His wife passed away August 3, 1900.

Mr. and Mrs. Bailor have one child, Lena E., at home. The parents are both active members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and Mr. Bailor is also a member of the Knights of Pythias fraternity and has filled all the offices in his lodge. As a public-spirited and progressive citizen, he gives his support to all enterprises calculated to advance the moral, social and material welfare of his city and county, and he is held in high regard by all with whom he comes in contact, either in business or social life.

ISAAC BAKER. (Volume 1, Page 260) 

Isaac Baker, a practical and enterprising agriculturist of Waynesville township, owns and operates a well-improved and highly cultivated farm of one hundred and twenty acres on section 23. His possessions have been acquired through his own efforts, and as the result of his consecutive endeavor he has become quite well-to-do.

Mr. Baker was born on the 19th of February, 1847, in Morgan county, Ohio, which was also the birthplace of his parents, Isaac and Mary (Nulse) Baker. His paternal grandfather, Samuel Baker, was one of the first settlers of that state, and at a very early day came to Illinois, locating in McLean county. The father of our subject was born in 1813, and in early life followed the cooper's trade. In the fall of 1859 he and his family came to Waynesville, Illinois, but the following year removed to McLean county, where he resided some years. Later he returned to DeWitt county to make his home with a daughter, where he died in 1885. His wife survived him about three years, dying in 1888. They were the parents of thirteen children, eleven of whom reached mature years, and three sons and two daughters are still living.

On the home farm in McLean county Mr. Baker, of this review, grew to manhood, receiving his education in the district schools of the neighborhood and in the village schools of Waynesville. He early became familiar with every department of farm work, and after leaving the parental roof engaged in farming on rented land until 1887, when he purchased eighty acres of his present farm, which was then but slightly improved. Later he added to it a tract of forty acres, making a good farm of one hundred and twenty acres on sections 14 and 23. He has built a good residence, a large barn and other outbuildings, has set out fruit and shade trees and made many other improvements generally found upon a model farm of the present day. Besides his own farm, he operates two hundred and seven acres of land elsewhere, and is also successfully engaged in stock-raising.

On the 6th of March, 1872, in McLean county, Mr. Baker was united in marriage with Miss Lucinda Johnson, a native of that county, and a daughter of Jesse Johnson, who came to this state from Indiana at an early day. She died March 4, 1890, leaving five children, namely: Frances Ellen, wife of Charles Cunningham, of McLean county; Olive L., at home; Jacob F., who is married and engaged in farming in Waynesville township; [and] Arthur L. and Sidney L., who assist their father in the operation of the farm. Mr. Baker was again married in DeWitt county, October 21, 1891, his second union being with Mrs. Laura V. Buck, who was born in Logan county, Illinois, and is a daughter of William Russum, who came to this state from Ohio. By this second marriage Mr. Baker has two children, Isaac and Emeline.

In his political affiliations he is a stalwart Democrat, and cast his first presidential vote in 1868, but at local elections he supports the men whom he believes best qualified for office, regardless of party lines. His life has been one of industry and usefulness and due success has not been denied him.

WILLIAM ALEXANDER BARNETT. (Volume 1, Page 307) 

Clinton probably has no more energetic and enterprising business man than this well-known bridge manufacturer, who is today the only manufacturer in this city. He also conducts a general repair shop for repairing all kinds of machinery, and has built up a large and constantly increasing trade. A native of DeWitt county, he was born October 19, 1858, in Clintonia township, on a farm which he now owns. From his father, William B. Barnett, he traces his ancestry back through Alexander L., John and James Barnett to John Barnett, of whom tradition says that he was a soldier and surgeon under General Greene in the Revolutionary war, and took part in the battle of Cowpens, South Carolina. He was born in Virginia, of Scotch parentage, and was considered one of the most skillful physicians and surgeons of his day, having written a book on the treatment of all kinds of diseases. His son, James, who was also a native of Virginia, followed surveying in early life and later engaged in farming.

John Barnett, the son of James, was born in the Old Dominion, moved to Kentucky, near Paris, Bourbon county, and married Sally Kinney, by whom he had the following named children: Robert F., born in 1807, died in 1864; Franklin, born in 1808, died in 1871; Alexander L., born in 1810, died in 1886; Maria, born in 1812, and Juliette, born in 1814, both died in infancy; Elizabeth, born in 1816, died in 1889.

Of this family Alexander L. Barnett was the grandfather of our subject. He was born in Bourbon county, Kentucky, October 15, 1810, and became a planter and slave holder, but being subsequently convinced that slavery was wrong, he freed his slaves and then followed farming in his native state. In 1832 he came to what is now DeWitt county, Illinois, and entered six or seven hundred acres and land. He died in Clinton, Illinois, at the residence of W. B. Barnett, April 30, 1886. His wife, who was Miss Elizabeth H. Hall, a daughter of Mahlon Hall, was born in Kentucky, February 28, 1813, and died December 7, 1893. Their children were William B., the father of our subject; James R., who was born November 17, 1836, and is still living; Eliza, who was born May 13, 1838, and died September 27, 1839; Cassander, who was born February 29, 1840, and is still living; Sarah, who was born November 19, 1841, and died October 16, 1864; Juliet, who was born November 2, 1842, and is still living; John, who was born November 10, 1845, and died November 19, 1900; triplets, one boy and two girls, who were born January 29, 1848, and died at birth; Alexander was born November 25, 1849, and is still living; and Nancy, who was born October 15, 1851, and died August 18, 1853.

William B. Barnett, our subject's father, was born in Barnett township, this county, August 21, 1835, and after reaching manhood received forty acres of choice prairie land in Clintonia township, where he made his home throughout the greater part of his life. When sewing machines were first introduced in the west he became agent for the same, and for twenty-five years handled all kinds of sewing machines. His honorable dealings won for him the confidence and respect of all with whom he came in contact. In 1880 he removed to Clinton and opened an office, but longing for his country home, he soon returned to the farm to please both himself and wife. They came to Clinton again in 1886 and here spent the remainder of their lives. On the 26th of August, 1855, was celebrated his marriage with Miss Sarah E. Duncan, who was born near Lexington, Kentucky, August 29, 1832, and in 1838 came to DeWitt county, Illinois, with her parents, Samuel and Mary (Cockrell) Duncan, locating in Clintonia township, on the Eli Brown farm. She is one of a family of six children, the others being John A., Martha, James, Louis and Lucretia Duncan. The only child born to William B. and Sarah E. (Duncan) Barnett is William Alexander, our subject. The father died September 14, 1898, but the mother is still living and continues to make her home in Clinton.

William A. Barnett, of this review, passed his boyhood and youth on the home farm and received his early education in a log school house, where he certainly improved every opportunity, for at the age of fifteen years he passed an examination and was recommended to teaching, being given a first-grade certificate on a standing of ninety-seven and a half percent. His age, however, prevented him from teaching and he did not begin that occupation until October 15, 1876. After his third term he took a course at Wesleyan University, Bloomington, beginning September 1879. During the summer months he assisted his father on the farm until 1883, when he commenced selling school furniture. In 1886 he represented the road machines of Phillips & Preston, of Peoria, and the next year the Western Wheel Scraper Company, in the meantime teaching during the winter months. In 1888 he resigned his school during the last part of the term and accepted the position of state agent for Western Wheel & Scraper Company, manufacturers of road machines and earth moving tools. He also took up bridge building, which he followed quite successfully until 1894, when he was accidentally shot in the arm while hunting, and was idle from September 2, 1894, to April 1895. From the 1st of April, 1895, until January, 1896, he engaged in bridge contracting, and the following year, 1897, became state agent for the Bellefontaine Bridge & Iron Company, holding that position until January, 1901. He then opened a shop for the manufacture of iron bridges and repair work. In this factory he now employs from three to eight men and has two men upon the road. He is also engaged in bridge building and has taken a number of contracts for iron work in Clinton, including that for the Universalist church and for all the buildings erected lately.

October 17, 1883, Mr. Barnett married Miss Lucy J. Moore, daughter of William and Hannah (Wright) Moore, and granddaughter of Mason and Margaret (Adams) Moore. Her grandfather was a native of Virginia, but spent his last days in Ohio, whither he removed in 1839. His children were Townsend, Miriam, William M., Franklin, Serepta J. and Joseph. Mrs. Barnett's father was born in Loudoun county, Virginia, December 25, 1831, and in 1857 came to DeWitt county, Illinois, locating on what is now known as the H. L. Stamats farm in Creek township. Later he was associated with Magill Brothers in stock-raising and shipping, and in 1878 was elected superintendent of the county farm at Hillsville, which position he filled for four years. He died January 28, 1886, honored and respected by all who knew him. His children were Franklin M., born October 26, 1856; Lucy Jane, December 6, 1858; Humphrey A., February 25, 1871; and William M., October 19, 1872. Mr. and Mrs. Barnett have two children: Sylvia, born February 13, 1886; and Ira Mason, born June 7, 1888.

Fraternally Mr. Barnett affiliates with the Knights of Pythias and the Modern Woodmen of America. In politics he is a stanch Democrat, and is now acceptably serving his second term as alderman of the city. A man of superior executive ability and sound judgment, he already occupies a good position in the business world, and is highly respected and esteemed by all who know him.

JAMES A. BATES. (Volume 1, Page 312) 

James A. Bates, one of Clinton's largest plastering contractors, was born in that city on the 15th of September, 1857. His father, George Washington Bates, was born in Marion, Ohio, December 14, 1829, and was a son of Asa and Lydia (Rosebury) Bates. The grandfather was a large landowner of Ohio, where he was extensively engaged in farming and stock dealing for some years, but he and his wife spent their last days in Springfield, Illinois. Their children were Angeline, Temperance, George Washington, Zenus, Elizabeth, Sarah, Isabel and Franklin.

George W. Bates received a good education in the public schools of his native state, and then taught school for some time. Coming to Clinton, DeWitt county, he learned the plasterer's trade, and soon began contracting in that line. About 1872 he removed to Farmer City, where he built a fine residence, and successfully engaged in plastering and paper hanging at that place until his death, which occurred August 12, 1892. His widow is still a resident of Farmer City. In her maidenhood she was Miss Ann Maria Woodward, a daughter of Dr. James W. and Mary (Blakemore) Woodward. Her father was born in Lee county, Virginia, July 28, 1813, a son of James and Jane (Hayden) Woodward. The Doctor's paternal grandfather came to this country from Wheatland, England, and participated in the Revolutionary war. By occupation he was a farmer, as was also his son, James Woodward. The latter was born in Stafford county, Virginia, and about 1832 came to Logan county, Illinois, where he died when about sixty years of age, and his wife at the age of seventy-six. She was a daughter of Harry Hayden, also a native of the Old Dominion, and a soldier of the Revolutionary war. In the family of James and Jane (Hayden) Woodward were the following children: Henry, Polly, Lemuel, Lydia, Lucy, John, Nancy, Emily, Jane, Jessie, James W. and David. The last two are still living.

During his boyhood and youth Dr. Woodward attended the public schools until sixteen years of age and then commenced the study of medicine under Dr. Abram Still, of Lee county, Virginia, one of the noted physicians of his day. Dr. Woodward began practice in Logan county, Illinois, at the age of twenty-two years, and about 1844 came to Clinton, but in 1855 he removed to Farmer City, where he still resides. For many years he enjoyed an excellent practice at that place, but for the past decade has practically lived retired, but is still called in consultation many times. Fraternally he is a member of the Masonic order and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and also the Eastern Star Chapter and Rebekah branch of those fraternities. He has been twice married, his first wife being Mary Blakemore, daughter of Charles Blakemore. She died when over forty years of age, leaving five children: Mrs. Olive Bullock, Mrs. Ann M. Bates, Mrs. Isabel McDonald, Mr. W. Blakemore Woodward and Mrs. Ellen Halloway. The Doctor's present wife is Miss Sarah W. Chambers, a native of Kentucky, and a daughter of Rev. William and Sarah (McReynolds) Chambers. Her father was a native of Maryland and a Methodist Episcopal minister. By this second union Dr. Woodward has two daughters, Mrs. Laura French and Mrs. Minnie Bach.

Mr. Bates, whose name introduces this sketch, was reared and educated in Clinton, and during his boyhood commenced learning the plasterer's trade with his father at Farmer City, but completed his apprenticeship with an uncle at Clinton. He then worked as a journeyman until 1886, and since that time has engaged in contracting in Clinton, doing the work in his line on nearly all of the principal buildings erected here, including the south ward school house, the east ward school house, the Universalist church and Mrs. Henry Magill's residence. He has also taken contracts of high grade work in Farmer City, DeWitt and Weldon, this county.

Mr. Bates was united in marriage with Miss Carrie E. Bordwell, a daughter of Marcus Bordwell, of Manteno, Illinois, and they have become the parents of three children: Ethel M. and Opal M., twins, born August 18, 1882; and Claud S., born August 26, 1887. The family has a pleasant home in Clinton, which was erected by Mr. Bates in 1896. He affiliates with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Knights of Pythias fraternities and has held office in the latter lodge.

JOHN P. BAYLESS. (Volume 1, Page 260) 

The subject of this personal narrative is one of the most enterprising and progressive farmers and stock-raisers within the borders of Waynesville township, his home being on the north line of the county, on section 18. He has made his special field of industry an eminent success, and now owns and operates a well-improved and valuable farm of two hundred and forty acres.

Mr. Bayless was born in Rush county, Indiana, September 13, 1835. His father, Daniel Bayless, was a native of Ohio, born in 1812, and was a son of Daniel Bayless, Sr., who took his family to Rush county, Indiana, in 1820, becoming one of the pioneers of that region. There our subject's father grew to manhood and married Miss Malinda Jones, a sister of Colonel Jones, of DeWitt county, Illinois. Mr. Bayless opened up a farm in Rush county, Indiana, and continued its operation until 1856, when he removed to DeWitt county, Illinois, and settled in what is now Waynesville township.

John P. Bayless was reared and educated in the county of his nativity, but as his school privileges were meager, he is almost wholly a self-educated man. He accompanied his family on their removal to this county, and remained under the parental roof until twenty-six years of age. Here he taught school through the winter months for about eight years. Mr. Bayless was twice married, and to these unions were born eight children.

Politically Mr. Bayless is a Republican and cast his first presidential vote for John C. Fremont in 1856, though at local elections he votes independent of party lines. He made the first assessment in Waynesville township, but has never cared for office, preferring to give his entire time and attention to his farm and business interests. He was made a Mason in 1861, and is now probably the oldest living member of Waynesville Lodge.

HENRY G. BEATTY. (Volume 1, Page 242) 

One of the leading business men and most highly respected citizens of Clinton is Henry G. Beatty, a well-known wholesale and retail dealer in harness, buggies, etc., having one of the largest and oldest establishments of the kind in DeWitt county. His hand-made harness and saddlery, especially, has won for him an excellent reputation in business circles.

Mr. Beatty was born in Hancock county, Ohio, April 14, 1845, a son of Isaac B. and Eliza (Crowl) Beatty. The father was born in Findlay, Ohio, and was also engaged in the harness and saddlery business. In 1848 he came to Clinton and was one of the first to engage in that enterprise in this city. Here he carried on business until 1875, when he sold out to Daniel Hampshire and removed to Normal, Illinois, in order to give his children better educational advantages. After spending two or three years at that place he returned to Clinton and entered into business with his son, Thomas O., but two years later he sold his interest to our subject and retired. His first wife, who was the mother of our subject, died about 1850, at the age of forty years. By that union he had six children: William and Charles, both deceased; Henry G. and James C., twins, the latter now a resident of Decatur, Illinois; Isaac B., deceased; and Julia, wife of H. C. Adams, of Sheldon, Illinois. For his second wife Isaac B. Beatty married Mrs. Phoebe L. (Hill) Mahan, by whom he had three children: Mrs. Mary Coults; George H., a resident of Stonington, Illinois; and Thomas O., of Clinton. The family residence was at No. 81 South Center street. The father was an active member and officer in the Methodist Episcopal church and a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He died in 1887, at the age of sixty-seven years.

Coming to Clinton in 1853, Henry G. Beatty commenced working at the harness maker's trade and has since devoted his time and energies to that business. His labors were interrupted, however, by his services in the Civil war, enlisting in 1863 in Company F, Second Light Artillery, in which he served until hostilities ceased. He then returned home and became associated with his father in business until 1873, when he removed to Kenney, Illinois, where he engaged in the same business quite successfully, and there built a business block, but in March 1889, his property was destroyed by fire when the whole business center of the place was burned. Mr. Beatty's loss was thirty-three hundred dollars, which was all that he had, it representing his entire accumulations. He was one of the enterprising business men of the village who at once set on foot a movement to rebuild the business portion in brick, but not meeting with sufficient support, he returned to Clinton and purchased the stock of William Metzger. Renting a building in the Union block, he once more embarked in the harness and saddlery business at this place and soon built up a good trade. He has since purchased the building known as the D. C. Jones store, where he carried on his business until 1901, when he moved out and into the building where he learned his trade, and to-day carries a large and well-selected stock of light and heavy harness, whips, robes, etc., and a fine line of carriages and traps— the best which the town affords. He employs four skilled harness makers and trimmers, and manufactures some of the best harnesses found anywhere on the market. He is now rebuilding a handsome brick block, twenty-two by one hundred and twenty-four feet in dimensions and two stories in height, which will be ready for occupancy November 1. He has also purchased the Barker property on West Main street, where he has a find home.

In 1867 Mr. Beatty married Miss Caroline S. Stocking, a daughter of John T. Stocking. She was a native of Trempealeau, Wisconsin, and died November 3, 1899, at the age of fifty-one years. By this union were born five children: Nellie F., who married C. B. Armstrong, of Decatur, Illinois, and has one child, Sylvia; Ernest, who wedded Mary T. Stewart and is associated in business with his father; William, who married Cora Arnold and is a harness maker of Clinton; James R., a laundryman, who is now sojourning in Colorado; and Hobert, also a harness maker.

Mr. Beatty is an active and prominent member of the Methodist Episcopal church of Clinton, in which he has served as trustee, class-leader and superintendent of the Sabbath-school. Fraternally he is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Rebekahs and the Grand Army of the Republic, and is past commander of his post. He has always made the most of his opportunities, and his life illustrates what can be accomplished through industry, perseverance, good management and a determination to succeed. While a resident of Kenney he took quite an active and prominent part in public affairs, and served as president of the town and also filled the office of alderman.

DAVID BELL. (Volume 1, Page 36) 

David Bell, whose home is one section 28, Creek township, is one of the oldest and best-known citizens of that locality. He was born on the 30th of November, 1829, in Wayne county, Ohio, and is a son of William L. and Nancy Ann (McCelvy) Bell, both of whom were natives of Ireland, where their marriage was celebrated. By trade the father was a weaver, and he followed that occupation until his emigration to America in 1821. He first located in Wayne county, Ohio, and later removed to Ashland county, that state, where he spent the remainder of his life upon a farm, his time and attention being devoted to agricultural pursuits. His wife died in 1865 at the age of sixty-one years, while he long survived her, passing away in 1882, at the age of eighty-three years and six months, the remains of both being interred at Haysville, Ohio. They were the parents of nine children, of whom three died in infancy. The others were Samuel, now deceased; John, a resident of Ashland county, Ohio; David, our subject; Mary, wife of George McClure, of Haysville, Ohio; Joseph, deceased; and Eli, deceased, who was a member of Company E, One hundred and Twentieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and took part in many engagements, including the battle of Gettysburg.

Our subject began his education in the county of his nativity, and after the removal of the family to Ashland county, Ohio, he attended school there during the winter months until eighteen years of age, the summer season being devoted to work on the home farm. He remained under the parental roof until twenty-two, when his father purchased some timber land, which he divided among his two oldest boys, David's share being eighty acres of which only three acres had been cleared. He at once turned his attention to the improvement of his place, first felling the trees and then breaking the land. Besides this tract of timber land, his entire possessions at that time consisted of a horse, bridle and saddle.

After working eighteen months, Mr. Bell was married, June 14, 1853, to Miss Rebecca Messer, who was born in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, of which state her parents, William and Hannah (McClure) Messer, were also natives, but the former was of German and the latter of Irish descent. In 1833 the family removed to Ohio, Mrs. Bell being at that time only two years old. The journey was made in a wagon drawn by four horses. Mr. Messer located in Richland county, Ohio, and purchased eighty acres of timber land, which he commenced to clear and cultivate, but he later sold that place and bought another farm in the same county, though in a different township. Disposing of his property in Ohio, in 1857, he came to Illinois and located on the farm adjoining our subject on the east. To the development and improvement of that place he devoted the remainder of his life, and erected the fine, large residence now occupied by its present owner, Mr. Bennett. He died in 1892, at the ripe old age of eighty-one years and ten days, and his first wife, Mrs. Bell's mother, departed this life in November, 1861, at the age of sixty-five, the remains of both being interred in the Texas township cemetery. Unto them were born two children, of whom Mrs. Bell is the older. George enlisted in 1862 in company F, One Hundred and Seventh Illinois Volunteer Infantry, as a private, but was later promoted to first lieutenant. He died in a hospital during his service and was buried in the soldiers' cemetery at Knoxville, Tennessee. For his second wife Mr. Messer married Mrs. Catherine Brodwick, by whom he had one child, Hannah Catherine. Mrs. Bell was born February 11, 1831. By her marriage to our subject she has become the mother of the following children, namely: (1) William M., a resident of Lane Station, married Laura Davenport and they have nine children: Gertrude, David T., Frederick M., Harry A., Anna J., Bessie, Tella H., Glora and one unnamed. (2) David E., who is now carrying on the home farm, wedded Mary E. Reed and they have eight children, Myrtle E., Matilda R., Franklin E., Mary E., Ellis R., David M. and Orlando. (3) Hannah A. is the wife of Robert Sellers, of Iowa, and they have four children, David L., Herbert J., Ruby R. and on unnamed. (4) James W., a resident of St. Louis, married Tela Gaddis, and they have four children, Hattie Z., Eva L., Rebecca M. and Horace W. (5) Hattie R. is the wife of Richard A. Stone, of Shelby county, Illinois, and they have six children, Luther, Walter, Diamond R., Minia, Wayne and Hattie P.

The maternal grandfather of Mrs. Bell was George McClure, a native of Ireland, who came to America when sixteen years of age and located in Kentucky during the days of Boone. His wife, Sarah Finley, was the daughter of a Scotchman, who settled in Pennsylvania at an early day. Mrs. Bell's grandmother on her father's side was Rebecca Roberts, of Scotch-Irish descent. On both sides the families were strict Christian people, the Roberts family being of the Quaker faith. In neither family was there ever a case of insanity or suicide. While principally farmers, there were many ministers, physicians and merchants among the male members of it. The Finleys were Covenanters and the McClures, Presbyterians. The Messers were of German origin, but the grandfather of Mrs. Bell, John Messer, was a native of Pennsylvania, where he lived and died.

At the time of his marriage Mr. Bell had no home to which he could take his bride, but rented a log cabin near his farm, in which they lived until a small frame house could be erected. It is still standing and was his home for five years while clearing and cultivating his farm, during which time he suffered many hardships and privations. In 1857, in company with his father-in-law, he came to DeWitt county, Illinois, and being well pleased with the country purchased eighty acres of wild prairie land on section 28, Creek township, on which he raised a small crop the first year. In the fall, after harvest, he returned to Ohio, where he had left his wife, who had seen to the planting and harvesting of a crop on their Ohio farm. After spending the winter in that state, in the spring of 1858 he sold his property there and brought his family to their new home in Dewitt county, Illinois. The first year they lived in a small log house which Mr. Bell rented while he built upon his farm a dwelling sixteen feet square with a pantry additional. When he purchased the land there was not a stick of timber upon the place nor any acre under cultivation. He set out many trees, which now throw a grateful shade about the home and add much to the beauty of the place. He now has a nice large residence, the front being thirty by eighteen feet in dimensions and two stories in height, while the rear is forty by sixteen feet, including the original structure. Here he and his wife are now spending their declining years in ease and quiet, enjoying a well-earned rest. They have a nice farm of one hundred and sixty acres under a high state of cultivation with up-to-date improvements.

Since the organization of the Republican party Mr. Bell has been one of its stanch supporters, and he has efficiently filled the offices of road commissioner, township treasurer and school director. Both he and his wife are active and faithful members of the United Brethren church, of which he is now a trustee, and he has also served as steward, class leader and Sunday-school superintendent. They contributed to the erection of the church near their home, Center Chapel church, and have aided in building three school houses. They stand high in the community where they have so long resided, and those who know them best are numbered among their warmest friends.

HENRY BELL. (Volume 1, Page 42) 

Among the men whose lives have left an impress upon the present civilization and upon the development of the great state of Illinois, Henry Bell, of Clinton, Illinois, now deceased, stands prominent in the memory of his grateful fellow townsmen. He was born in Pickaway county, Ohio, on August 25, 1812, and a son of John and Sarah (Williams) Bell.

Lawrence Bell, the grandfather of our subject, was a native of Virginia, where he was born in 1743. He was a soldier in the war of the Revolution and the traditional family history says that during the progress of the war he went home on a furlough and being unable to return, his son James went back and served in his place until the close of the war. He was selected by General Washington as an aide and was present when Cornwallis surrendered.

John Bell, the father of Henry, was also a native of Virginia, and he served as a private in the war of 1812. The latter part of his life was spent in Clinton, Illinois, where he died in 1861, aged about seventy-seven years. His wife survived him until 1869, when she passed away, aged about eighty years. All of their ten children are now deceased and of them Henry was the third in order of birth. The remains of both of these aged people are interred in the cemetery south of Clinton.

Henry Bell was educated in Ohio, and became a farmer. He purchased a farm in Hancock county, that state, but later removed to DeWitt county, Illinois, in 1853, and settled in Clinton. Here is entered into partnership with Henry Taylor, under the firm name of Taylor & Bell, dealers in dry goods, groceries, etc. This firm continued until February, 1858, when the store and contents were destroyed by fire. During this time Mr. Bell had purchased land in Wilson township, where he moved in the early sixties. He continued to reside there until 1892, when he removed to Clinton, and here he passed away in April, 1893.

In 1859 he invented a new and improved seeding machine, the patent papers of which are to-day in the possession of the family.

Mr. Bell was no exception to the ancestors of his family for when the Civil war broke out he did all he could to induce them to let him enlist, but at that time he was in poor health, and he had to remain at home, but he showed his love for his mother country by doing all that was possible to assist in raising troops and caring for the one that had to be left at home unprovided for.

At his death he left one hundred and sixty acres of fine land in section 32, Wilson township, which is now owned by his children, and they rent it. In Wilson township there was formerly a small school house which was called after Mr. Bell, and in it services were held by the Methodist denomination, of which Mr. Bell was an earnest member. From the first he took a very active part in religious work and exerted himself to have a church erected. His labors were successful and to-day upon the site of the primitive building stands a beautiful church, appropriately named, Bell Chapel.

In 1834, Mr. Bell was united in marriage with Miss Rebecca Ewing, a native of Maryland, and a daughter of William and Mary Ewing. William Ewing was a native of Ireland, and his wife was born in Maryland where they were married. They had ten children and of them Mrs. Bell was the eighth in order of birth. To Mr. and Mrs. Bell were born four girls: Mary A. married Phillip Wolf, and they live in Clinton. Sarah C. married Thomas Dickey, who died in 1880, and lies buried at Farmer City. She resided in Clinton. Martha J. lives with Mrs. Dickey in Clinton. Alma E. married George Geer, and they also reside in Clinton. Mrs. Bell died in 1891, at the age of eighty years and lies in Woodlawn cemetery by the side of her husband.

In politics Mr. Bell was a strong supporter of the Republican party and in 1856 was a member of the first board of trustees of the city of Clinton. He also served as collector in his township and always took an active and prominent part in public affairs, and he discharged his duties in such positions with sterling uprightness of purpose, winning for himself many steadfast friends who still mourn his loss. He was made a Mason in Findlay, Ohio, in 1851.

J. E. BELL. (Volume 1, Page 46) 

J. E. Bell, a well-known lumber dealer of Waynesville, is a native of Illinois, born in Logan county, on the 17th of September, 1859, and is a son of Joseph Bell, whose birth occurred in Virginia, in 1807. His paternal grandfather, John Bell, was also a native of the Old Dominion, and at an early day removed from that state to Kentucky, where he opened up a farm and reared his family. On reaching manhood, Joseph Bell was married in Ohio to Miss Maria Michaels, who was born in Germany, but spent her girlhood in Ohio, and they spent their early married life in the Buckeye state. In 1847 Mr. Bell came to Illinois and made a permanent location in Logan county. He had charge of the Clark ranch for eight years, and then purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land on section 1, Oran township, which he converted into a good farm. He entered and bought other tracts from time to time until he had nearly three thousand acres of land and was successfully engaged in general farming and stock-raising. As a drover he was first interested in the stock business before the railroads were built through this section of the state, and later bought and shipped stock quite extensively. He was well known in this locality, and was held in high regard by his associates and friends. He died in 1887, when over eighty years of age. His wife still survives him and resides with her son in Waynesville. Unto them were born four children, two sons and two daughters, of whom J. E. is the youngest.

Our subject spent his early life upon the home farm, and was educated in the public schools of Logan county. On starting out in life for himself he began operating eighty acres of the old homestead. Ten years later he bought forty acres of the place, and after his father's death purchased the remaining forty acres, and continued to follow farming there until the fall of 1890, when he removed to Midland City, DeWitt county, where he engaged in buying grain two years. At the end of that time he returned to the farm, but was again engaged in the grain business at Tabor for two years, while the two succeeding seasons were devoted to the operation of his farm. On the 1st of July, 1895, Mr. Bell bought a half interest in the lumber business at Waynesville, which he now carries on and subsequently became sole owner. He purchased the other yard at Waynesville and consolidated the two. He carries a large and complete stock of lumber and builder's hardware, and has built up a good trade, which is constantly increasing.

Mr. Bell was married in Logan county, October 13, 1880, to Miss Ella Warrick, who was born and reared in that county, and is a daughter of Charles Warrick, now a resident of Waynesville. They have three children living, namely: Charles H., Edna M. and Marie. Mr. Bell is just completing a nice modern residence, which is one of the best in Waynesville. He and his wife were reared in the Methodist Episcopal church and still adhere to that faith. Socially he is a member of Waynesville Lodge, I. O. O. F., in which he is now serving as vice-grand, and his wife belongs to the Rebekah Lodge, has filled all its chairs and is past grand. Politically Mr. Bell has affiliated with the Democracy since he cast his first presidential vote for Grover Cleveland in 1884, and while a resident of Logan county he served one term as assessor but has never been an aspirant for office. He is a straightforward and conscientious business man and well merits the respect in which he is held by his fellow citizens. He possesses excellent business and executive ability, and his sound judgment, unflagging enterprise and capable management have brought to him success.

PROFESSOR EMMORY B. BENTLEY. (Volume 1, Page 373) 

Professor Emmory B. Bentley, who has been superintendent of the Clinton schools for the past three years, was born in West Middlesex, Pennsylvania, January 27, 1865, and is a son of William H. and Margaret (Bailey) Bentley, who were farming people. Our subject was reared on the home farm and began his education in the public schools. Subsequently he engaged in teaching in the district schools, and in this way earned the money to finish his education, as many of our ablest and most distinguished men have done. In 1885 he entered Mt. Union college of Ohio, alternating his attendance there by teaching until he was graduated in 1891.

The following year Professor Bentley was principal of the schools at Makanda, Illinois; was principal of the high school at Murphysboro the same length of time, and later was principal of the schools at Dongola one year, and Anna for four years. This was a gradual promotion, being given larger schools each time and better salaries. In 1898 he came to Clinton as superintendent of the city schools, which position he has since most efficiently filled. During this time the schools have made wonderful progress; the enrollment has been increased from nine hundred to eleven hundred and twenty-two. On his arrival here the high school had but forty-four pupils, while today it has one hundred and thirty-eight. This has been mainly due to the untiring labors of Professor Bentley, who has exerted all his influence to build up the schools and promote their welfare. The increase in scholarship will eventually raise the literary standing of the city and be of great benefit to coming generations. The professor has not only stimulated a desire in his pupils for the more advanced studies but has also done much for their amusement, establishing athletic and oratorical departments, in which he has introduced football and other pastimes. In contests with other schools the Clinton schools have gained marked distinction, and today they rank second to none. The high school was built in 1867, and the Lincoln school in 1897. The present teachers are as follows: Jennie M. Good, principal of the high school and teacher of mathematics; Anna Taggart, first assistant and Latin teacher; Helen Bryden, second assistant and English teacher; Edna Peltz and Lida B. Mix in the eighth grade; Trophy Wright in the seventh; Gertrude Emerson in the sixth and seventh; Katherine Oliver in the sixth; Grace McHugh, Anna McPherson and Freddie Porter in the fifth; Ida Strain and Bertha Miller in the fourth; Clara Breuer, Minnie Brown and Bell Gideon in the third; May Crum, Lela Lockett and Bessie Sutton in the second; and Minnie Bradfield, Nettie Berryman and Adda Hunter in the first.

Professor Bentley married Miss Della Chase, daughter of Charles Chase, of Jonesboro, Illinois, and they have two children: Beulah B. and Howard H. Socially the Professor is a member of the Knights of Pythias fraternity. He is a man of many sterling qualities, whose success in life is due entirely to his own unaided efforts, and the city of Clinton owes much of its progress in the past three years to his untiring labors.

CHARLES W. BISHOP. (Volume 1, Page 100) 

Charles W. Bishop, who lives with Mrs. Rutledge on the old homestead, was born in McLean county, Illinois, November 27, 1860, and is a son of Jacob C. and Mary Ann (Little) Bishop and grandson of Jacob and Mary A. (Weedman) Bishop. His grandfather died in McLean county at the advanced age of ninety-three years, and the grandmother at an advanced age. She was a daughter of George and Charlotte Weedman, and was born in Pennsylvania. At an early day she removed with her parents to Perry county, Ohio, and from there came to McLean county, Illinois. On the 10th of May, 1821, she gave her hand in marriage to Jacob Bishop, and at the time of her death had thirteen children, eighty grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. She was a devout Christian. Her children were Sarah Ann, Charity, George, Jacob, Anna M., Charlotte, Fletcher, John S., Elizabeth, Asbury M., Joseph, Harriet and Hannah.

Jacob C. Bishop, the father of Charles W., is still living in Heyworth, McLean county. His wife died at the age of forty-five years. They were the parents of nine children, namely: John W., Mary Ellen, Alice, Fremont, Charles W., James, Emma, Fanny and Sanford Dick.

Charles W. Bishop was reared upon the home farm and educated in the common schools of the neighborhood. In 1890 he went to Weldon, Illinois, where he spent one year, and then located on the old Rutledge homestead, where he still lives, his time and attention being devoted to the operation of the farm. He married Miss Martha D. Turner, a daughter of Dennis and Martha J. (Rutledge) Turner, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work. Her maternal grandfather was William J. Rutledge, mentioned in the preceding sketch. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Bishop were Fred W.; Mary A.; Homer A.; Alice H.; Charles D., who died at the age of four months; and Ralph L. The father is a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian church, while the mother is a Methodist in religious belief. Socially Mr. Bishop affiliates with the Masonic fraternity and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at LeRoy. In his political views he is a Republican, and he has filled the office of school director.

ROBERT BLACK. (Volume 1, Page 110) 

We are now permitted to touch briefly upon the life history of one who has retained a personal association with the affairs of DeWitt county for forty-five years. His life has been one of honest and earnest endeavor and due success has not been denied him, so that he is now one of the prosperous citizens of Barnett township, his home being on section 32, adjoining the village of Midland City.

A native of Ohio, Mr. Black was born in Logan county, that state, March 20, 1835, and is a son of James and Nancy (Powers) Black. His father was born in the north of Ireland of Scotch-Irish ancestry, and was a child when brought to the new world by his father, Alexander Black, one of the pioneers of Pennsylvania and who lived to the remarkable age of one hundred and four years. Our subject's maternal grandfather also reached an advanced age, being ninety-one at the time of his death. James Black was reared in Pennsylvania, and there married Miss Nancy Powers, a native of that state. At an early day they crossed the Cumberland mountains on horseback and settled in Logan county, Ohio, being numbered among the pioneers of that locality. The father first purchased a small piece of land, to which he subsequently added until he had one hundred and fifty-six acres, which is now owned and occupied by his son, Oliver S. Black. In the family were ten children, six of whom are still living, namely: William, a resident of Iowa; Oliver S., who lives near the old homestead; Henry, who lives with our subject; Robert, of this review; Mrs. Letitia E. Short, a resident of Bellefontaine, Ohio; and Mrs. Nancy E. Huber, of Noble county, Indiana.

Our subject, who was the seventh son in this family, used to aid his mother in the household work and in spinning during his boyhood. He also worked with his father in the fields and attended school during the winter months, when his services were not needed at home. In 1856 he came west, arriving in DeWitt county, September 8, and here he worked as a farm hand for about two years.

Mr. Black was married in this county June 10, 1858, to Mrs. Margaret Humphrey, a native of Madison county, Ohio, and a daughter of Samuel McClinans [McClimans], with whom she came to Illinois in childhood. They became the parents of five children, of whom four are living: Curtis L. is married and follows farming in this county; Mary Matilda is the wife of William C. Wallace, of Midland City; Joseph E. is also married and is engaged in farming in this county; Rachel S. died at the age of two years; David M. is married and helps carry on his father's farm. Besides their own children Mr. and Mrs. Black have, out of the kindness of their hearts, given homes to four others, three girls, who were aged four, five and eleven years, respectively, when they came to live with them. All are now grown and married and the boy is also grown.

For one year after his marriage Mr. Black was engaged in farming on rented land, and then removed to his present place, which was a farm of two hundred and forty acres, belonging to his wife. To the improvement and cultivation of this farm he has devoted the greater part of his attention ever since. There are two houses, barns and outbuildings upon the place, and everything is in first-class condition. Mr. Black also owns an adjoining farm of one hundred and twenty acres, and has one hundred and ten acres of timber land, besides other property. For about ten years he was successfully engaged in buying and shipping stock, and now gives considerable attention to the breeding of standard-bred road horses, in which he also deals. He laid out the village of Midland City upon his farm, and for several years was engaged in merchandising there. Mr. Black had no capital with which to begin life, and his career proves that ambition, perseverance, steadfast purpose and indefatigable industry, combined with sound business principles, will be rewarded, and that true success follows individual effort only.

In politics he has been a life-long Democrat and cast his first presidential vote for Stephen A. Douglas in 1860. He has been a delegate to state and county conventions of his party, has served as commissioner of highways; was a member of the school board twenty years; and president of the district eight years. Religiously both he and his wife are active and faithful members of the Midland City Christian church, in which he served as both deacon and elder, and they receive and merit the high regard of the entire community in which they live.

J. HENRY A. BLOME. (Volume 1, Page 287) 

This well-known cigar manufacturer of Clinton, Illinois, was born in the province of Hanover, Germany, in 1857, and in 1871 came to the United States with his parents, Frederick and Mary (Honfelt) Blome. The family located at Earlville, Illinois, where the father engaged in railroading and farming. There he died in 1885, at the age of fifty-five years, and his wife, who long survived him, passed away in 1901, at the age of seventy-two. They had four children: Dora, Rudolph, J. Henry A. and Elizabeth.

The subject of this sketch had learned the cigarmaker's trade in his native land, but on first coming to America he followed farming for a short time. He then worked at his trade as a journeyman until 1886, when he came to Clinton and started a factory of his own on a small scale, with only one man to assist him. He sold his goods to the townspeople and was careful to make a cigar that would please. At first he carried on business in a rented place, but was at length able to purchase the Nancy Mann property at 216 East Main street, and after remodeling the residence for his home he erected a building on the rear of the lot for business purposes. His trade has steadily increased, and he now furnishes employment to four men. His leaders are Espanol and Ringlets— two good five-cent cigars, which are widely sought, and there is no cigar for the price on the market which excels the Espanol. His favorite ten-cent cigar is the Royal Prince. Mr. Blome sells principally to the local trade. His factory is No. 34.

Mr. Blome married Miss Louisa M. Kern, a daughter of Michael Kern, of Dwight, Livingston county, Illinois, and to them have been born three children: Frederick M., George and Albert H. Fraternally he is an honored member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Knights of Pythias, the Modern Woodmen of America, the Court of Honor and the Protective League, and has held office in some of these orders. He is what the world terms a self-made man, his success in life being due entirely to his own industry, perseverance and a determination to succeed.

URIAH BLUE. (Volume 1, Page 420) 

Uriah Blue, deceased, was one of the highly respected citizens of DeWitt county and resided at the time of his death in Texas township. Mr. Blue was born in Hampshire county, Virginia, August 19, 1850, and when three years of age came to Illinois with his parents, Uriah and Jemima (Welton) Blue. Both were natives of Virginia, and after coming to Illinois, about 1853, they located in Texas township, where the father engaged in farming for many years and where he died at an advanced age. His widow survived him some years and died in 1871.

Uriah Blue, our subject, remained on the home place until he attained his majority, at which time he married, and then he purchased a home of his own, to which he added from time to time until at the time of his death he owned one hundred and fifty acres of good farm land, all of which was under cultivation. In politics he was a Democrat, and at the time of his demise was serving as justice of the peace, which office he had held for many years. Socially he was a member of the order of Knight of Pythias.

On March 16, 1871, Mr. Blue was married to Jennie P. Eckert, who was born in Butler county, Ohio, and was a daughter of Henry K. and Sarah M. (Squire) Eckert. Henry Eckert was born in Ohio, as was also his wife. They came to Illinois in January 1867, and settled in Texas township, DeWitt county, where the father engaged in farming. He now resides with his daughter, Mrs. Blue, and is aged seventy-six. He is a member of the Baptist church. The mother of Mrs. Blue was a member of the United Brethren church and died in 1866. She was the mother of six children.

To Mr. and Mrs. Blue were born seven children: Frank, who died at the age of six months; Charles E., who died when three years old: Lilly, who died at the age of two years; Edmund W., who resides on the home place and is assessor of the township; Carl D., William O. and Clara Alice, all at home. All of the children were born in Texas township, DeWitt county, and were or are being educated there. The family resides in the fine modern house Mr. Blue erected on the homestead.

Mr. Blue died on December 23, 1891, after a short illness. He was a public-spirited man and an advocate of all that tended towards the advancement of the interests of the neighborhood in which he resided. He was very liberal and devoted to his home and family. In his death the community suffered by the loss of a friend to the oppressed, a good citizen and a man of upright life and high standing.

WILLIAM BOOTH. (Volume 1, Page 112) 

William Booth, attorney at law and master in chancery of DeWitt county, residing in Clinton, was born on the 24th of April, 1849, in Cedarville, Greene county, Ohio. His father, John Booth, was born in Berkeley county, West Virginia, and in early life removed to Ohio, where he married Rosa Piles, a native of that state. During the latter part of the '40s he came to Illinois for the purpose of herding cattle on the wild prairies, driving them back to Ohio in the fall. Being so favorably impressed with the country, he moved his family to this state in 1851 and settled near Waynesville, DeWitt county, where he purchased a partially improved farm. After residing there a few years he removed to Waynesville, where he spent the remainder of his life. He died in 1890, at the age of sixty-five years, but is still survived by his wife, who continues to make her home in Waynesville. They were the parents of four children: William, our subject; Mrs. Mary Strange; Mrs. Nancy Williamson; and Melda.

William Booth was only two years old when the family came to this county, and he is indebted to its public schools for his early educational advantages. Later he entered the Illinois Wesleyan University at Bloomington, Illinois, and was graduated at that institution in 1874 and was admitted to practice law in 1879. Since then he has engaged in practice in Clinton, being alone, with the exception of about a year, when E. S. Van Meter was associated with him. From 1880 until 1892 he served as state's attorney, being elected on the Republican ticket, and later he was appointed master in chancery, which office he still retains.

In 1890 Mr. Booth was united in marriage with Miss Theresa Crang, a daughter of Richard Crang, of Clinton. She presides with gracious dignity over their beautiful home at 702 North Monroe street. During the Civil war he manifested his patriotism by attempting to enlist at each call for troops, but being too small, as well as too young, his services were always rejected and he was sent home until 1864, when he was accepted as drummer boy for Company I, One Hundred and Forty-fifth Illinois Volunteer Infantry. He therefore has the honor of being one of the youngest soldiers in the late Rebellion from this state, and is to-day a member of the Grand Army Post of Clinton. He has also been prominently identified with the prosperity and welfare of his city, and is recognized as one of its leading citizens as well as one of its ablest lawyers.

HUGHES BOWLES. (Volume 1, Page 347) 

Hughes Bowles, a well-known citizen of Hallsville, is the possessor of a good property which now enables him to spend his years in the pleasurable enjoyment of his accumulations. The record of this life, previous to 1900, is that of an active, enterprising, methodical and sagacious business man, who bent his energies to the honorable acquirement of a comfortable competence for himself and family.

Mr. Bowles is one of DeWitt county's native sons, his birth having occurred in Tunbridge township, December 5, 1842. His father, Henry Bowles, was born in Bourbon county, Kentucky, July 10, 1818, and was a son of Hughes Bowles, a farmer of that county, who, in the twenties, before the winter of the deep snow, brought his family to DeWitt county, Illinois, being one of the first to locate here. He took up a large amount of government land and became owner of several hundred acres. The father of our subject was reared in this county and married Miss Cassie Hall, who was also born in Kentucky and was quite young when she came to this state. Her mother, Mary Hall, was another of the pioneers of DeWitt county. Henry Bowles followed farming, and plowed much of his land with a team consisting of one horse and an ox. He died September 20, 1845, at the age of twenty-eight years, and his wife died March 25, 1851, at the age of twenty-five. She was born April 7, 1826.

After the death of his mother our subject made his home with his maternal grandmother, Mrs. Mary Hall, and other relatives until he was grown, and received a good common school education. He then worked by the month as a farm hand for a few years, but after his marriage bought a farm of one hundred and twenty acres near Farmer City, but in McLean county, and at once commenced to break the virgin soil and improve the place by the erection of fences and good and substantial buildings. After residing there for twenty-one years he sold the place and bought residence property in Hallsville and a farm in Tunbridge township, DeWitt county. He rented his farm, and while making his home in the village he operated a farm nearer that place for six years. He then removed to Hallsville and successfully engaged in farming for a few years. He then retired from active labor and returned to Hallsville in February 1900. He is still the owner of a good farm of one hundred and fifty-seven acres of land near Kenney, but is now living a retired life.

In Barnett township, this county, Mr. Bowles was married, February 5, 1868, to Miss Rachel Bartley, who was born in Madison county, Ohio, but during infancy was brought to DeWitt county, Illinois, where she was reared. Her father, John Bartley, was a native of Pennsylvania, and in early life went to Ohio, where he married Miss Nancy McClimans, a native of that state. Six children blessed the union of Mr. and Mrs. Bowles, namely: Myrtle C., now the wife of Ed P. Hildreth, a merchant of Kenney; Lora L., wife of Skillman Hunter, ticket agent and telegraph operator at Hallsville; Mont B., who is married and engaged in farming on his father's place; Laverne and Edna, both at home; and an infant, deceased.

Originally Mr. Bowles was a Democrat in politics, and cast his first presidential vote for General George B. McClellan in 1864, but of later years he has been identified with the Prohibition party. He has served on the school board, but has never cared for public office. Religiously he and his wife are members of the Christian church at Hallsville, and as a public-spirited and progressive man he gives a liberal support to all measures calculated to advance the moral, educational and material welfare of the community in which he resides. Socially he is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America.

CHARLES BRELSFORD. (Volume 1, Page 170) 

Among the leading citizens of Kenney, Illinois, is Charles Brelsford, the present mayor of the town. He is a native son of DeWitt county, being born in Tunbridge township, December 29, 1859, to William and Lydia (Craig) Brelsford, who are represented on another page of this review.

Charles Brelsford, our subject, remained on the home farm until he reached maturity, receiving his education in the common schools of the township and assisting his father on the farm. In 1892 he moved to the village of Kenney and opened a real estate office, which business he continued for some years, and then entered the insurance business, being the representative of all the prominent old line companies. In 1901 he was elected president of the village board on the Citizens ticket, and is recognized as one of the leading representatives of his party in this locality. Fraternally he is a member of the order of Knights of Pythias, Kyle Lodge, No. 282, of Kenney, in which he has occupied all the chairs, being past chancellor. In business, political and social circles Mr. Brelsford stands high and well merits the general esteem which he receives.

WILLIAM BRELSFORD. (Volume 1, Page 124) 

If one desires to gain a vivid realization of the rapid advance in civilization which the last few decades have brought about, he can listen to the stories of men, who are still living among us, of the early days. The log cabin home, the still ruder school house, with its rough seats made of slabs, its limited range of studies and its brief terms, arranged on a subscription plan, the routine of work at home, unrelieved by any modern devices by which machinery is made to do in a short time what formerly occupied the entire year,—these and many similar descriptions will bring up in sharp contrast the advantages of to-day. The subject of this sketch, a venerable and highly respected citizen of Tunbridge township, has many interesting reminiscences of the pioneer days, which he takes pleasure in relating.

William Brelsford was born in Butler county, Ohio, on the 22nd of November, 1825, a son of Pierson and Mary (Hutchin) Brelsford, both natives of Pennsylvania, but who moved to Ohio, where the father engaged in farming. Both passed their last years in that state. Of the eight children born to these parents, but three are now living: Pierson, a prominent farmer of Butler county, Ohio, operating the old homestead;  Laura, wife of Mr. Schenck, who resides in Butler county, Ohio, where he is engaged in farming; William, our subject.

William Brelsford passed his boyhood days in Butler county, Ohio, receiving his education and remaining on the home farm until he was twenty-one years of age, when he commenced farming for himself. After four years he determined to come west, and in the spring of 1850 we find him at Peoria, Illinois, where he remained for several weeks, while waiting for an opportunity to reach DeWitt county. There were comparatively no roads at that time, but finally after a hard and tedious trip, getting off to break the ice many times, he reached DeWitt county by wagon and located in what is now Tunbridge township. Here he bought three hundred acres of land and having no money, gave three notes, the last one falling due at the expiration of three years, but before the time had passed he paid the entire amount and had built a good home upon the place. At the time of his purchase the land was worth ten dollars an acre, but after he had finished improving it, he sold a portion at a greatly advanced figure and the remainder he still owns. To this he has added until he now owns four hundred and thirty-three acres on sections 14, 15 and 11, all under a high state of cultivation, with a large and substantial brick home upon it, together with other good improvements. Our subject owns other property in DeWitt county, amounting in all to about eight thousand acres under cultivation, and upon of which he has made all the improvements.

William Brelsford was united in marriage with Miss Lydia Rhoda Craig, January 13, 1848. She was a native of Butler county, Ohio, and a daughter of James Craig, also of that county. To our subject and wife five children were born, three of whom are still living: James E. resides in Kansas, being an accountant in a large store. He is also interested in farm land in that state. Everett is a farmer of Tunbridge township. He married Mary Spicer and they have three children, Vivia, Lydia and Herbert. Charles H. is represented elsewhere in this volume. Mrs. Brelsford, who was an earnest, consistent member of the Methodist church, passed to her final reward on July 19, 1896, and is interred in the private cemetery of the family in Tunbridge township.

In his political views Mr. Brelsford casts his national vote for Democracy, but in local elections votes for the man he considers best qualified for the position, regardless of party lines. He has never consented to hold any office, preferring to give his time to his extensive business interests, but takes a deep interest in anything tending to improve the material welfare of his adopted county.

For fifty long years Mr. Brelsford has been a resident of Illinois, and is one of the few living pioneers coming to the state as men who have witnessed its change from a vast wilderness to the most productive state in the union, and third in wealth and population. In the great changes that have been made, he has taken no inconsiderable part, and is justly entitled to all the honors that can be conferred upon one who has endured the trials of pioneer life. When he came to Dewitt county it was as a poor man with some seventeen dollars in his possession. The success he has achieved has not been the result of assistance from others, but through his own industry, thrift and perseverance, and in his life the younger generations can find much worthy of emulation.

NEWTON BRITTIN. (Volume 1, Page 228) 

Among the representative men of Wilson township, DeWitt county, Illinois, is Newton Brittin on section 24, who was born, reared and has always lived in this locality. He is a son of Henry and Almira (Crippin) Brittin, and Henry Brittin is a native of McLean county, Illinois, to which county his father came in the year of the big snow. Henry Brittin now resides in LeRoy to which locality he removed about nine years ago and lives retired from active business.

Newton Brittin has spent his life upon the farm, receiving a good education in the school of the township during the winter months, and working upon the farm in the summer. When he became twenty-one he began to work for himself and now owns and operates a fine farm of one hundred and sixty acres, he carrying on general farming and stock-raising. His buildings are in excellent condition and his house is very comfortable, while he never neglects any part of his land, keeping it all in good shape.

In 1893 Mr. Brittin was married to Miss Belle Silvy, a native of this state, and to them have been born the following children: Jennie Irene; Henry; Letta and Lyle.

Mr. Brittin is a Democrat in politics and the first office he held was that of assessor, which he retained for one year. In 1900 he ran for supervisor of Wilson township on the People’s ticket, and it was a very close election, he being defeated by a majority of one vote. At the following election he was elected by the same majority and still holds his position upon the board. Realizing that he understands the state of the roads and bridges in his and surrounding townships, the other members of the board placed him upon the committee on roads and bridges and also on the one on printing and stationery, which he still retains. Mr. Brittin is a man of solid good sense and is well qualified to represent the interests of his township for he is a man of sterling honesty and uprightness of purpose and by his many excellent qualities has made many warm friends.

GEORGE H. BROWN. (Volume 1, Page 109) 

One of the most enterprising and thrifty farmers of Wapella township is George H. Brown, whose home is on section 25. A native of Illinois, he was born in McLean county, on the 5th of October, 1854. His father, John Brown, was born in Ohio in 1817, but moved to Kentucky in childhood and there grew to manhood and married Miss Melinda Tolle, also a native of that state, where they continued to make their home until after the birth of two of their children. About 1852 they came to Illinois and settled in McLean county, where the father engaged in farming on rented land for a few years, and then purchased one hundred and eighty acres where one of his sons now resides. This was a wild tract, entirely unimproved, but he soon broke and fenced it, and later added to it a tract of eighty acres. He erected a good residence, substantial barns and outbuildings, tiled the land and set out fruit and shade trees, making it a very attractive and desirable place. His last years were spent in ease and retirement at Wapella, where he died in April, 1898, being laid to rest in Sugar Grove cemetery. His wife is still living— a hale and hearty old lady of seventy-seven years— and conti