BIOGRAPHY AND REMINISCENCES

The general history and foregoing pages of this chapter may be said to contain every name and event connected with the settlement and progress of this division of the county. Here many of the leading actors in those stirring; scenes, which mark the history of Elmira for over half a century, are portrayed, so that these pages, taken with the former ones, constitute at once a most complete history of this division of Stark county.

John Adams, born in Cumberland county, Me., in 1794, served in Captain Knight's company in 1794, as drafted for the defense of Portland, came to Illinois in 1853, died in Elmira township Jan. 21, 1879. Israel Adams, his father, died at Freeport, Ill., served under Arnold in the Quebec expedition, and his grandfather, Moses Adams, was a son of one of the two Adams who came after the Plymouth settlement was made.

James Armstrong, Sr., who came from Scotland in 1855, died in Elmira township in August, 1876, aged eighty-three years.

Louis Austin, of Elmira, died November 15, 1878, finishing his apprenticeship as pioneer of that township.

Matthew Bell, who came with his parents to Hamilton, Canada, in 1832, came to Valley township in 1852, and in 1853 moved to Elmira.  In 1819 he married Jane Mulholland, of Wentworth county, Canada.

Wm. D. Blanchard, an oil settler of Elmira, died May 13, 1881.

Mrs. Abby M. Blanchard, widow of W. D. Blanchard, died August 18, 1885. She was born in Maine in 1811, married in 1853, and  came here that year. Eugene, the youngest son of Mark Blanchard, of Elmira, died at Stuart, Ia., in September, 1883. On November 12, 1886, Mrs. Ann Blanchard, wife of J. Blanchard, aged sixty-five years, died. She was the daughter of Hugh and Anna White, pioneers of the county, and more recently of Harvey county, Kan.

Dr. Edwin Bowland Boardman, was born in Luzerne county, Pa., March 3, 1829. His father, Orlando, was a native of Massachusetts; grandfather, a native of Connecticut, and great-grandfather a native of Great Britain. His mother, Mary Brace, was born in New York state, to which her father's people moved from Connecticut prior to the Revolution. Orlando Boardman was born in 1789; moved to Pennsylvania in 1828; having previously been engaged in the drug-trade in Saratoga county, N. Y., where he was married, and where three of his children were born, namely: William H., Jane E. and Persis P. Their son, Edwin, was born in Pennsylvania. Mrs. Mary (Brace) Boardman died in 1832. Five years later he married Miss Ann Goble, to whom were born James G., Mary and Margaret E. In 1840 the family moved to Illinois, and settled on a farm in Paw Paw Grove, Lee county. There his wife died in 1866 and himself in June, 1873. Dr. E. B. Boardman was educated in the schools of Paw Paw, studied medicine there under Dr. G. W. Hunt, subsequently attended the Indiana Medical School at La Porte, from which he graduated in 1849, and commenced practice in this township. His marriage with Miss Hannah, daughter of Ambrose and Hannah (Munson) Fuller was solemnized September 12, 1850. To them ten children were born, namely: Charles O., deceased; Mary H., married at Creston, Iowa; Edwin O., a physician of Osceola, this county;  Nancy J., married, of Kuya Paha county. Neb.; Sarah C, deceased; James A. deceased; Adella S., deceased; George D., William H. and Anna L., residing at home. In 1852 the doctor purchased a farm, which he carried on in connection with his professional duties. In 1881 he was appointed public administrator for this county. For forty-three years he has been a member of the Baptist church, his wife being also a member. He has been a Republican since the organization of the party; but his busy professional life and farm work left him  little time to be active in politics. (Vide ch. on Physicians.)

Dr. Edwin O. Boardman, son of Dr. E. R. and Hannah (Fuller) Boardman, pioneers of this township, was born here, May 18, 1855. The summers of his early years were passed on his father's farm and the winters in attendance on school. In 1871-3 he was at the East Paw Paw schools; then read medicine under the direction of his father; subsequently was a student of Rush Medical College, Chicago, and graduated in the spring of 1878. In July of that year he married Miss Mila J., daughter of Miles and Mary L. (Ames) Huestis, natives of New York. Her grandfather Huestis was a native of France, a shoemaker by trade, and her grandmother Huestis an Alsatian or Lorrainer. Her grandfather and grandmother Ames were natives of New York and were farmers of that state. Miss Huestis was born at Victor, De Kalb county, Ill., May 20, 1858, and resided in De Kalb county until her marriage. She attended the Teachers' Institute and Classical Seminary at East Paw Paw from 1871 until 1874; from 1871 until 1877 attended the graded schools of Sandwich, Ill. Her parents died while she was quite young, leaving her to fight the battles of life alone.  Dr. Boardman commenced practice here with his father in 1878; but soon after moved to Osceola village, where he established an office and still shares the full confidence of the people. In religious matters he belongs to the Baptist church, is tolerant as all intelligent men mast be, and fully recognizes what is good in all other denominations The children of Dr. and Mrs. Boardman are Miles E. and Mary Alice. ( Vide History of Boardman Family)

Charles Bolt, deceased, son of James and Catherine (Aron) Bolt, natives of Scotland and Bucks county, Pa., respectively, was born in Philadelphia, June 19, 1814. James Bolt was a seafaring man. The son, Charles, on coming of age, learned the blacksmith's trade, and worked at this trade until he left his native city, in 1841, for Osceola Grove with his children by his first wife, Samuel and Catherine Bolt. Here on January 19, 1842, he married Catherine Slifer, a sister-in-law of the Vandykes. Samuel Bolt married Miss Mary Snell, now Mrs. Mary Gleeson, before the war. Catherine was also the head of a family of three children when she died, March 10, 1879. To the second marriage there were no children, but the family adopted three, namely: Rebecca Brown, married, residing in Osceola township; Lamont Palmer, married, a resident of Penn township, and Josephine Hoadley, married, residing at Salem, O. Charles Bolt followed blacksmithing and farming for a number of years after moving to Illinois, his first farm being in Elmira township, but afterward he purchased a land warrant of eighty acres in Penn township, where he erected his residence. A few years after his removal here, he engaged in store-keeping, and carried on this in connection with his farm until his death, February 23, 1884. In politics he was a member of the Greenback party, in religion a Free Will Baptist, and in business and social matters a man who claimed the respect of every one. He served as school director and collector for several terms, and always took a lively interest in anything which promised benefits to his district. His widow, Mrs. Catherine Slifer Bolt, resides in Elmira township, just northwest of Modena. Like the Vandykes and Slifers, she is a member of the Old School Baptist church.

Myrtle G. Brace, born in Washington county, N. Y., in 1808, settled in Stark county in 1835 or 1836, preempting a one-quarter section in Elmira township, subsequently purchased 170 acres, and set out the groves and orchards, and in 1850 built a large farm-house. His sons Orlando and Charles, served in the One-hundred-and-twenty-fourth Illinois Infantry and Nineteenth Illinois Infantry, respectively, the former being wounded at Spanish Fort. A reference to the general history points out his service as justice of the peace and representative. While returning from Chicago, where he was a juror in the United States court, he died on the cars. (Vide History of Orlando Brace.)

Lochlin Buchanan, son of John and Margaret (McLennan) Buchanan, was born in Rosshire, Scotland, September 16, 1834. His parents were married there in 1816. They came to the United States in 1852, bringing with them their four children, Alexander, deceased; Catherine, who married Duncan Matheson, now living in Wisconsin; Lochlin, the subject of this sketch, and John, a resident of Colorado. One of the family, Betsy, who married Duncan Murchison, came with him to America in 1849 and both died here, while another daughter resides still in Scotland. John, the father of this family died on his farm here, September 14, 18(H). Lochlin Buchanan married Miss Christina McLennan, January 1, 1857. Her parents, John and Barbara (McKenzie) McLennan, came to New Hampshire in 1882, and after several removals settled in Elmira, where her father died in 1872. Her mother now resides at Kewanee, Ill. Lochlin removed to his farm shortly after his marriage. In 1801 he visited California, was a gold miner in Oregon, Idaho, Montana, at Helena, and Fort Benton, and other places, but after six years returned to his family, and resumed the development of his original purchase. He purchased 280 acres additional on section. 28, where he now makes his home. Of their seven children, six are living, John D. resides in Henry county; Lochlin, Jr., is a resident of Elmira; Barbara A., Christina L., Margaret A. and George B. reside with parents. His wife is a member of Knox church, and he is a supporter of that church. In politics lie is decidedly Republican, earnest in school matters, prominent in Masonic circles and altogether a citizen of excellent parts.

Lochlin M. Buchanan was born in Elmira March 12, 1860. He is the son of Lochlin and Christina (McLennan) Buchanan. His younger years were passed on the farm and in attending the district schools, until he grew to manhood, when he engaged in farming. In 1881 he was married to Miss Clara E. Jackson, daughter of James and Elizabeth (Sturm) Jackson, the former being a native of Pennsylvania, the latter a native of Ohio. After his marriage the subject of our sketch engaged in farming and stock-growing, and in connection with his farm interest, added a steam thresher and other machinery of advantage to his immediate locality. He has also of late years been buying and shipping stock, buying the greater amount of stock that he fed on his farm. In politics he has ever voted the Republican ticket. lie is not a member of any church but lends his support to the American Presbyterian church of Elmira. His family consists of three children, namely: Harry Ross, Georgia Monroe and Maud Gertrude. Mr. Buchanan is a young man who has lived in Elmira township all his life, built around him a fine home and won the respect and confidence of all with whom he has had any dealing. His farm embraces 210 acres well improved.
Asa Abbott Bunton, deceased, born in Charlestown, Mass., June 14, 1834, came to this township in 1854, and here engaged in farming for a short time. Being a machinist by trade, he moved to Chicago and there took a position in the shops, subsequently worked in the shops at Rock Island, and in 1858 returned to this county, where he married Miss Mary L., daughter of Thomas and Mary Jane (Craig) Lyle. Her father was born in Scotland, in March, 1809, came to the United States in his youth, learned the stonecutter's trade in Vermont, and there married Miss Mary J., daughter of James and Margaret Craig — natives of Vermont — in February, 1837. They came to Osceola Grove that year, and were engaged in agriculture on the old home-stead until their removal to Kewanee, in 1877. Of their ten children, Helen L. is married, residing in Page county, Ia.; Mary L. married Mr. Bunton; Lucy C. married, residing at Kewanee, Ills.; Carlos E. married a resident of this township; James B. and an infant, deceased; Emily, unmarried, residing with her father at Kewanee; Horace E., married, residing on old homestead, and two younger children deceased. Thomas Lyle, while a supporter of all churches, is not a member of any religious society. In politics he is decidedly Republican.

Asa Bunton continued farming, after his marriage, until August 9, 1862, when he enlisted in Company A, One- Hundred-and-twenty-fourth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, with which command he served honorably until August, 1865. Of his three children, George Bartlett, married, resides in this township; Mabel J. died June 7, 1886, and Fred. L. resides at home. In politics he was Republican, but not aggressive; in religion a member of the Congregational church of Kewanee, and in social matters a sound, honest citizen. He held the office of school director for years.

James Buswell, born at Peacham, Vt., in 1793, came to Illinois in 1833, brought his family in 1831, and in 1835 came to Elmira township, with ten friends, known as the "Peoria Party," where each entered a quarter section. Early in 1837 he came here with his family, bought a second quarter section from Governor Duncan, where he built a house in 1815, drawing the lumber himself from Chicago. He served as Justice of the Peace for many years, as related in other pages, had seen the prairie turned into cultivated fields, and the untenanted wigwams of the Indians give place to pleasant, well ordered villages. One of his sons, Nicholas C. Buswell, of Princeton, was Lieutenant Colonel of the Ninety-third Illinois Infantry.

James Cinnamon, son of John and Sarah (McGinnis) Cinnamon, was born in Down county, Ireland, in March, 1826. His ancestors are said to have settled there during the invasion of England by "William the Conqueror," and today several representatives of the family may be found there. James left Ireland in 1817, and coming to Canada, settled at Kingston. Eighteen months later we find him at Chicago, and January 1, 1819, at Lacon, Ill., engaged as house carpenter. On May 8, 1851, he married Miss Flora A., daughter of Robert and Phoebe (Newton) Sharer, the father a native of New York and the mother of Luzerne county, Pa. Robert Sharer, son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Taylor) Sharer, was born April 13, 1803. Samuel was a native of Ireland and his wife of England. Of their children, Robert, William and James were born in York state, and Joseph, David, Samuel, Thomas, Elias and Sarah A. after their removal into Luzerne county, Pa. Robert Sharer married Phoebe Newton July 5, 1830, to whom live children, Mrs. Flora A. Cinnamon being the only one now living. He and family moved to Wyoming, this county, in 1835; established a shoemaker's shop here, but after a short time took up a claim of 100 acres in Elmira township, on Section 35; remained there for eleven years, when he purchased 80 acres on Section 34, where he resided until his death, February 3, 1873. His wife died August 4, 1878. Her father was a soldier of 1812. James Cinnamon, after his marriage, remained at Lacon a few years, moved in April, 1857, to Elmira township, purchased 80 acres on Section 33, and farmed up to 1861, when he, being a member of the " Elmira Rifles,'' was mustered into the United States service on June I7, with Company B, Nineteenth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and served until mustered out July 9, 1864. He resumed farming here that year, and now owns 403 acres of land in this township. Mr. C. is a Royal Arch Mason, supports the Presbyterian church, although not a member, has served several terms as school director, was Commander of James Jackson Post No. 37, G. A. R., for one year. He is  Republican in politics. Mr. and Mrs. Cinnamon are the parents of eleven children, seven of whom are living, namely: George, married, and now living in Clay county, Nebraska ; William James, residing at home; Mary B., married, and is living in this county; Hugh, Flora E., Edwin and Thomas A., all residing at home. Mr. Cinnamon was one of eight children, namely: William, married, and lives in Canada, East; John, deceased ; George and Joseph, deceased; James, herein named; Robert, married, and lives in Marshall county, this state; Elizabeth and Jane, married, and living at London, England.

David Currier was born in Caledonia County, Vt., January 3, 1816. His father, Asa Currier, (son of David and Elizabeth (Peabody) Currier, natives of Massachusetts) was born in the same county April 1, 1790. Asa married Miss Sally Willy in Vermont, and resided there until 1838, when they came to Elmira Township, purchased a claim of 160 acres of land here, on which he resided a few years. Moving to Osceola Township, he purchased a second tract, and was engaged in farming there until his death, March 18, 1808. His wife died March 1,1873. Asa was the second son of David Currier, and one of a family of eight children, namely: Jonathan, Asa, David, Joseph, Betsy, Sarah, Abigail and Victoria. Prior to his migration to Illinois he supported his family, learned shoemaking, but during his life here he devoted all his attention to farming. David, the subject of this sketch, received a common school education in his native state, and worked on the farm for a number of years. He migrated westward in 1830, and arrived at Peoria, October 14, that year. On January 20, 1837, he came to this township (township 14, range 6, Putnam County) and took up a claim of 100 acres, the same on which he now resides. In 1839 he married Miss Rebecca J., daughter of William and Agnes Parks, natives of Virginia, Washington County, who settled here before this time. To this union seven children were born, of whom three are living—William P. and Martha B., residing here, and Oliver B. (Currier) married Rebecca Olive Barlow, who lives at Blandville, McDonough County. The mother of these children died January 5, 1855, and in May, 1857, Mr. Currier married Miss Caroline K. Pattridge, daughter of Joseph and Catherine (Willard) Pattridge, natives of and married in New Hampshire, moved to Caledonia County, Vt., and thence to Osceola Township, in 1864, where Mrs. Pattridge died in February, 1865, and her husband in September, IS73. Mr. Currier served on the first grand jury ever called in this county, has filled several township offices, is a member of the American Presbyterian church, and in politics a Douglas Democrat. He is the owner of 385 acres of fertile land in this township, and for half a century one of the foremost farmers of the county.

Brady Fowler, son of Maurice and Sarah (Pell) Fowler, was born in Philadelphia, Pa., of which city his parents were natives, September 24, 1808. With his wife, Rebecca Wiseman, and three children, he settled in Elmira Township, on Section 4, in 1836, and resided there for forty-two years, when he moved to Toulon village. Of his children, Jane (married), John, Martin, Goshen; John resides in Toulon Township; Kirk H. is in Colorado; Jonathan W. in Iowa; Tillie is wife of J. Mosher, of Fairmont, Neb.; Sarah married Alex. McKenzie, of Toulon Township, and Mary is unmarried. Mrs. Fowler died in 1882, and was interred in Elmira cemetery. Mr. Fowler's name occurs in the general history, and is often mentioned in the township sketches. Mrs. Rebecca N. (Wiseman) Fowler died at Elmira, October 14, 1882, aged seventy-seven years. She was born in Cumberland County, Pa., in 1806; married Brady Fowler in 1831, and in 1836 came with her husband to Osceola Grove.

Laton Fuller, son of Ambrose and Hannah (Munson) Fuller, was born in Luzerne county, Pa., August 9, 1818. His father was born in Connecticut, September 7,1790 and his mother was born, March 15, 1797, the date of marriage being March 19, 1816. Of their eleven children, nine are living, namely: Ansell, born February 19, 1817, died April 30, 1863; Laton, referred to above; Clinton, born October 3, 1820, residing here; Walter, born April 20, 1822, residing here; Lucy M. born September 25, 1824, married, residing in Osceola township, Iantha, born June 10, 1827, married, residing at Marshalltown, Ia., Ambrose, jr., born November 19, 1829, a widower, also residing in Iowa; Hannah, born January 28, 1832, married, residing here; Melinda, born August 30, 1834, unmarried; Emilene, born April 18, 1838, died October 8, 1847; and Nancy, born March 30, 1842, married, residing in Iowa. The parents of this large family came to this state and county in 1839 and to this township in 1840. When the lands came into market he purchased the claim on which he built his cabin, and resided here until his death, May 30, 1845, his wife surviving until December 16, 1884. Laton Fuller passed his earlier years on a farm or working in a saw and grist mill. Some time after the family came here, he purchased eighty acres in Henry county, which he improved, sold and moved to this township, where he purchased a quarter section. Another few years, and he sold his second farm, moved into the village, and has led a retired life down to the present time. His first vote was for Harrison, and every vote since has been  for whig or republican. During the war he was a member of the Union League, has been school trustee of the township for several terms. He is not a member of any religious society.

Clinton Fuller, son of Ambrose and Hannah (Munson) Fuller, was born in Luzerne county, Pa., October 3, 1820. His earlier years were those common to boys in the Wyoming Valley during the first part of the century. In 1839 he came here with his parents and assisted them in building up their home. In 1853 he purchased 160 acres on section 29, stocked and improved it and in 1855 added eighty acres to the original purchase. Here he was engaged up to 1865, when he established the Fuller store at Elmira, and this large business he has carried on in connection with his farm down to this time. In 1858 he married Miss Eliza, daughter of Isaac and Ann (Wicks) Harris, natives of Duchess county, N. Y. To them one child was born, who died in infancy. The mother died January 25, 1882. Mr. Fuller cast his first vote for Henry Clay, and when the Republican party was formed he was among its first adherents, and is today one of the great party's most faithful members. In 1852 he was elected sheriff of Stark county. In 1865 he was appointed postmaster at Elmira, holding the office down to the present time. In township and school matters he has been trusted with several official positions. During the troublous days of 1861-5 he was a member of the Union League, and other organizations, but today only claims membership with the Odd Fellows. A reference to the history of the township points out the several parts he has taken here; so also does the general history contain references to his dealings with the county.

Walter Munson Fuller, son of Ambrose and Hannah (Munson) Fuller, was born in Pennsylvania, September 20, 1822. His father moved to Pennsylvania with parents in his youth, worked on the homestead farm, there learned the millwright's trade, married Miss Munson, and in 1839 came to this county, settling on lands which he purchased on section 20, Elmira township. Walter M. received a liberal and practical education. On January 1, 1849, he married Miss Chloe M., a daughter of James and Diana Howe, natives of Maine. Her father died in 1827; her mother married again, and with her Mrs. Fuller came here in 1839. (In 1851 her mother and stepfather moved to Iowa, where she died in 1859.) They are the parents of four children: James A., deceased; William W., head of a family in this township; Augusta, unmarried, and Luella May, married and residing here. After Mr. Fuller's marriage he purchased the interests of his father's heirs in the homestead farm of 110 acres, to which he has since added 190 acres of farm land and 50 acres of timber lands, all in this township. Mr. Fuller has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal church for over thirty years, his wife and daughters being also members. He has been township school treasurer for thirty-four years, justice of the peace for ten years, and town clerk thirty years. To learn of the part he has taken in building up the social and industrial interests of Elmira, the reader is referred to the chapter on the history of  that township.

William Winfeld Fuller, son of Walter and Chloe (Rowe) Fuller, was born in Elmira township, Stark county, Ill., July 16, 1852. His father was a Pennsylvanian, and mother a native of Maine, as related in other pages. William W. passed his earlier years on the farm or attending the district schools. At the age of sixteen he entered Hedding College, at Abingdon, Ill., and at the age of nineteen years took charge of a school in this township, over which he presided four terms. On February 9, 1874, he married Miss Sarah Frances, daughter of Elliott and Eleanor (McCoy) Hoggs, and grand-daughter of Andrew and Hannah (Bowen) Boggs, natives of Virginia, who were married there in 1800; moved to Gallia county, O., where he died in 1840 and she in 1846.  Elliott Boggs was born in Ohio, April 27,1813, was married in 1839 to Eleanor McCoy, to whom were born three sons and four daughters. Of these, Lavinia J., married, resides at Yates City; Elizabeth, married, resides in Kansas; William, married, is a citizen of Nebraska; Addison, married, of Iowa, and Sarah F., wife of W. W. Fuller. The mother of those children is the daughter of James and Elizabeth (Gillan) McCoy, natives of Virginia, Mrs. McCoy being a daughter of James and Lydia (Armstrong) Gillan, an old Virginia family. Elliott Boggs was a carpenter, who, in 1840, after his marriage, moved to Virginia and engaged in farming, in connection with his trade. In 1802 he returned to Ohio, and in 1864 came to Knox county, Ill., where he resided until 1875, when he moved to Iowa, where he died, September 28, 1883.

W. W. Fuller, after his marriage, engaged in farming, in partnership with his father, here; and is still interested in agriculture. In 1883 he accepted a position as clerk in a mercantile house at Elmira. In politics he is republican, in church membership independent, but a supporter of the Methodist Episcopal society here. As related in the history of Toulon, he is a member of the Odd Fellows lodge there. Mr. and Mrs. Fuller are the parents of two children, Frank R. and Laura L. Fuller.

Charles L. Gerard, son of Nicholas and Frances (Lignon) Gerard, both natives of France, was born in Lewis county, N. Y., January 24, 1831. The grandfather's family came to the United States in 1829, and settled in Lewis county, N. Y. In 1854 they removed to Calumet county, Wis., and there grandfather was engaged in farming until his death in 1862, aged 110 years. In 1856 he walked three miles to cast his vote for Buchanan. In religion he belonged to the Catholic church, with his wife and eight children. One of his sons—Nicholas, father of Charles L., was married in France, settled in Lewis county, N. Y., in 1826, resided some time at Albany and Cleveland, dying in the last named city in 1844. His widow remarried and resides in Kansas. Like his father, he was the parent of eight children. Two died in infancy. Eugene and Joseph are among the dead. John resides in Minnesota, Charles L. in Elmira, Frank in Wisconsin, and George in Elmira. He served under Napoleon at Waterloo. Charles L. Gerard passed his early years in Ohio. Moving from Cuyahoga to Huron county, Ohio, at the age of fifteen years, and to Fond du Lac, Wis., two years later, where he learned the carpenter's trade. On August 23, 1855, he married Miss Henrietta M., daughter of William and Hannah (Blood) Leason. Her father was born in Lincoln county, Maine, October 9, 1803, and her mother in Merrimac county, N. H., August 20, 1804. They settled in Stark county in 1844, moved to Wisconsin in 1857 and after a few years returned to Stark. Mrs. William Leason died in 1880. To Mr. Gerard and wife nine children were born— Hannah E., of Osceola; Mary M., deceased; Martha F., of Elmira; Caroline A., Sylvia E., Anna L., Charles N., James L. and Edith M. In 1857 he and family came to Stark county. In 1804 he purchased a small tract on section thirty-six, Elmira, and now owns 200 acres mostly improved. In 1861 he became a republican. At one time he was a member of the United Brethren Church, but now supports all Christian churches. He is an Odd Fellow, has served as school director, and since 1860, when he made the overland trip to Pike's Peak, has been steadily engaged in building up the agricultural and social interests of his township.

The Hall Family.—The immigration and settlement of this family in Elmira have been so ably dealt with by Mrs. Shallenberger, a daughter of one of the pioneers, the writer finds it only necessary to add to the original, a sketch of the late Mrs. Ann Hall, and one rewritten from Mr. Moffit's notes, of Robert Hall. Mrs. Shallenberger says: " The Halls, of whom I write, are directly descended from Thomas Hall and Sarah, his wife, nee Cokayne, of Hulland, Derbyshire, England. There they once formed a large and vigorous family, brothers and sisters a dozen in number, living to pass the meridian of life an unbroken band. 'Mansel Park,' the old English homestead, is still enshrined in the memory of the farthest wanderer of them all. At different times during the years 1836, 1837, and 1838, nine of these brothers and sisters crossed the sea, and settled in what is now Stark county, Illinois. The first installment was Robert and his sister Mary, William and his wife Anne. Next came Langley, by the way of New Orleans, that he might at less expense bring with him a few tine sheep and dogs with which to begin life in the new world. He suffered shipwreck off the Florida coast, but after being reduced to great straits of hunger and fatigue was in common with his shipmates rescued, and he finally arrived at the Osceola settlement. Then in 1837, came Thomas, with  his wife and four children, bringing also with him his aged father, Elizabeth (Mrs. Harvey), her husband and five children. Some months later, John, George and Fanny, accompanied by Miss Sarah Ligo, who shortly afterwards married Langley Hall. After about twenty years' residence here, John Langley and George, lured by promises of a more desirable climate, again took up the line of march westward, and settled upon the farther slope of the Rocky mountains, where they still reside. Mary became the wife of Mr. Orrin Hasard of Neponset, Bureau county, Ill.; and Fanny, the youngest of the family, married Hon. Joseph Harris, of Boyd's Grove, in the same county. Mrs. Harvey and William rest beside their father in the family burial ground at Osceola, while their mother sleeps beneath the sea. At this writing, in 1876, Thomas and Robert and the widow of William, alone remain to Stark county of those who were adult at the date of the first emigration. Their father was a plain, sturdy Englishman, of tall stature and rugged features; in faith, a Methodist, and contemporary with John Wesley and Adam Clark; in politics a radical; making no pretension to aristocratic tastes or descent, he was yet a man of strong common sense and strict integrity. But in their mother's veins ran gentler blood. Her progenitors bad come from Normandy with  the 'conqueror;' some old writers say were allied to him. but however that may be, they carried his banners on the bloody field of Hastings, and were rewarded, for their valor by princely gifts of land and honors. They seem to have been ever an eminently loyal race, always fighting for or with their king. A great grandson of the Cokayne knighted at the 'taking' of Edinburg was Sir Ashton Cokayne.  But in 1780, or thereabout, the male line of this old family became extinct, two sisters only being heirs to the traditions of the Cokaynes of Derbyshire.* These sisters became in course of time, Mrs. Earp and Mrs. Hall. Thus the old name was extinct, or preserved only as a prefix among their descendants, and it is curious to observe that few of them have failed to pay this sly tribute to pride of blood, even in the midst of a republicanism that professes to sneer at such distinctions. The marriage between Thomas Hall and Sarah Cokayne, occurred probably in 1797. In 1837 this aged couple set sail for America, in company with the family of Dr. Thomas Hall, and their eldest daughter, Mrs. Harvey; but the weary sea voyage of over six weeks' duration was too much for the already failing health of Mrs. Hall, who sunk from exhaustion induced by excessive sea sickness, a few days before the vessel reached the harbor of New York. The  recollections of that sad funeral can never fade from the memories of those who witnessed it, even in their early childhood, or the aged husband's last tribute to the virtues of his wife, wrung from his breaking heart as she was carried past him on the ship-deck, all shrouded in sail-cloth and weighted, preparatory to her burial beneath the sea. These were his words:  'Farewell, thou best of women.' The solemn rites of the English church were performed over one who had always loved them well. The body was then reverently lowered to the surface of the waves which silently closed over it and told no tales of sorrow. The remainder of this group of emigrants with smitten hearts pursued their journey toward a land of strangers. Passing up the lovely Hudson, its banks clothed in all the freshness of early summer, they came to Albany, thence to Buffalo by the Erie canal, then by steam to Cleveland, from Cleveland to Portsmouth by Ohio canal, affain to Cairo and St. Louis by so-called steamboats, but which were hardly more than a caricature of the boats that have since plied our western waters.  Our travelers left St. Louis on the 'Swift Sure (?)' on Friday morning, and did not reach Peoria until Tuesday night. They passed Alton on Sunday morning as people were going to church, and on Monday morning were still just above the city tied to a tree! as through some defect in her engine the Swift Sure could not stem the current and there was danger of her being drifted back during the night. So much for the pleasures of traveling in 1837. But Peoria was finally reached on the night of July 4, and the emigrants learned something, new to them, of the confusion and disorder following a celebration of Independence day. Several days passed ere teams could be secured and drivers sober enough to manage them, to convey the two families and their effects to Wyoming, their ultimate goal being Osceola Grove. Peoria was then but a hamlet on the lake. A half-built hotel on the corner of Main and Water streets, kept by Garrett, afforded shelter to strangers. On the evening of July the 8th, the two families, and Thomas Hall, sr., arrived at the house of General Thomas, at Wyoming, and had seen but one log hut since leaving Peoria. Early on the morning of the 9th, the doctor hired a horse of General Thomas, and made his way to 'Vandyke's ford,' there received fresh directions by means of which he found his brother William's cabin in due time. Soon an ox team and big wagon were on their way to Wyoming, and after sundry experiences, novel as trying to the occupants of the big wagon, home was at last reached, and brothers and sisters, parted weary months before in England, were now re- united in Illinois. But the congratulations of what would otherwise have been such a happy meeting, were drowned in tears at mention of their honored mother whom they could no longer even hope to see again on earth.

 

*John Savage makes the only modern reference to the Cokayne family. On page 51, he says : " At length, in 1794, the arrest and trial of Rev. William Jackson (a Protestant clergyman) drew the suspicions of the English government upon Tone. Jackson. on the representations of an old Irishman named Madget, engaged in the department of foreign affairs at Paris, was sent by the French  government to sound the people of Ireland respecting their inclination for French aid. He was accompanied from England by one Cokayne, an English attorney, to whom be indiscreetly opened his mind, being seduced by the lawyer's apparent truth. With Wolfe Tone, as the chief mind of the revolutionary parties, Jackson had many conferences; but Tone, disgusted "with the rash confidence placed in Cokayne. never spoke in the presence of that person. 'This business,' said be to Jackson, 'is one thing for us Irishmen, but the Englishman who engages in it must be a traitor or a common informer.' As Tone foresaw, the Englishman was as he thought he was.  Jackson was arrested on his information, and by his death proved his truth to that cause which he so foolishly jeopardized.'"—Ed.

"We must now go back in the order of time some eighteen months, or to February, 1836, when the first installment of this family sailed for the new world, and, as might be expected, met even greater obstacles and privations in the course of their journey than were encountered by the second group, to which we have briefly alluded, as at this period of history every subsequent year rendered emigration easier and pleasanter; some one has said 'a winter passage of the Atlantic is but a short cut to a watery grave,' and too often it proves so, even in these days of improved navigation. Let those who can, imagine its horrors in 1836, before the invention of ocean steamers, and when the financial ruin that had overtaken this family compelled them to content themselves with cheap accommodations on a sailing vessel. Head winds and rough seas made their voyage unusually tedious, and when in mid ocean, they encountered icebergs chat threatened certain destruction. But after over seven weeks buffeting with the waves, they anchored in the harbor of New York. Mrs. William Hall had an uncle in Pennsylvania who made a quiet resting place for them, but after recruiting for a little while, they resumed their journey westward, crossing the mountains by a 'horse railway,' .a means of transit that had new terrors for the women, at least. At Pittsburg they took a boat down the Ohio. They had reason to fear they had been exposed to small-pox, and soon discovered that two of their party (Robert and Mary) had fallen victims to this terrible malady. This was a sad trial to these strangers in a strangle land; they feared to have their condition known lest they should be summarily set ashore and abandoned to their fate. So they nursed their sick as quietly as possible, asking aid from no one, until the boat exploded one of her cylinders, scalding two engineers to death, and filling every nook and corner with hot steam; then the sick were snatched from their berths and hurried on deck, not knowing what shape death would meet them. But so great was the excitement on board, that although the faces of the sufferers were then a mass of eruption, no one seemed to notice them, and they crept back to their beds without experiencing any serious results from their fright and exposure. By the time they reached St. Louis they were able to pass muster without attracting attention, and arrived in Peoria early in the month of June, 1836, all in passable health. On the boats they had made the acquaintance of Archibald and Charlie Vandyke and Brady Fowler. These men were all in search of homes in the west; so a common interest made them friends. When the Halls left England they all looked toward Jacksonville as a place of residence, but for some reason changed their minds. While at Peoria they met with those who recommended the Osceola region highly. Major Moore, Watts and Spencer had just completed the original survey. Messrs. Buswell and Winslow had been to the grove, made claims, built cabins, and then returned for a time to Peoria. Under directions from Moore, the Hall and Vandyke brothers started early in June to walk across the pathless prairies that then stretched from Mount Hawley to Wyoming. After resting at Wyoming for a short time, as did nearly all who journeyed this way in those days, and being refreshed by a good meal, they proceeded toward the grove.

Here they found several families encamped, some sheltering in cabins half built. Among these were Mr. William Parks; he had moved from Virginia with his teams, had a huge boat-shaped wagon, drawn by four stout horses, one of which he rode, postillion fashion, when on the road. He also owned a 'carry-all' that cut quite a figure in the social life of that neighborhood for many years. The Hall brothers hired this man, his big wagon and team to return with them to Peoria after the women and goods, the latter only amounting to fourteen large boxes.

"Since the men had left Peoria a drove of cattle had passed through, and Anne and Mary each bought a cow. So now they loaded up— women and goods in the wagon, Mr. Parks on his horse, and the men on foot to drive the stock. They provided themselves with bread and cheese for refreshment at noon, fully expecting to enjoy supper and bed at the house of General Thomas, at Wyoming. The wagon was covered, and so fully loaded that the women had to sit in a constrained and uncomfortable position, and would often have preferred to have walked for a time, but as the grass was nearly to their waists and they had an English horror of snakes, this was a poor relief. The day wore slowly away; they were all very weary, the horses often floundering in treacherous sloughs, the wagon rocking like a ship at sea, while the driver hallooed to his team in a manner that startled, almost frightened those unaccustomed to such sights and sounds, but still no Wyoming dawned upon their anxious eyes. At length night came on, the team was exhausted, the driver confessed himself lost, and there was no alternative but to wait the dawning of another day upon the open prairie. The horses ate eagerly of the grass around them, the women crept faint and hungry under the shelter of the wagon cover, and the men threw themselves upon the ground beneath. They were all too excited to sleep much; the women's minds were busy thinking of the homes and friends they had left, contrasting the comfort of that life with the hardships of this, for although they had braced their minds to meet bravely whatever befell, yet this was a performance not thought of when the programme was made out. When Mrs. William Hall had in her English home revealed to her mother her plan, to be married shortly, and two weeks thereafter to set out for America, the good woman exclaimed:  'Oh, Anne, you are going to suck down sorrow by the spoonful.' That night on the prairie, and many a night afterwards her daughter remembered those words, and perchance thought them prophetic. When they suspended their journey the lightning was playing about the horizon, and by midnight a storm broke upon them such as they had never conceived of, and such as is rarely witnessed here, of late years. But morning came at last, the ram had ceased, and they started again for Wyoming, or any other point where food and shelter could be obtained, and about ten o'clock a. m., the cabin of General Thomas was reached. Refreshed by a good breakfast and a brief rest, the emigrants again started forward, only to renew the experiences of the previous day with new complications. They first made for Mr. James Holgate's place, and there got directions for Seeley's Point, pretty well to the east of the grove. By this route they hoped to reach the unoccupied cabin of Mr. Buswell, of which they were to take possession until they could build one. But Spoon river must be crossed by a deep and dangerous ford, where  the chances were very good that the whole load would capsize down the steep bank into the water, and by the time this difficulty was disposed of, the shades of evening were again closing around them.

"William Hall, who it will be remembered had been over this route but lately, to make his claim, now proposed to leave the party and make his way on foot directly to the cabin, kindle a fire to guide the rest, and have some food in readiness when they arrived. He was spurred on to this course, more especially as his young wife was already ailing under the combined strain of fatigue and excitement, and he feared if rest and refreshment could not soon be procured she would be seriously ill. He succeeded in carrying-out his part of the contract without much difficulty, and by nightfall a bright fire was blazing on the rude hearth of the cabin. But no wagon put in an appearance, and the solitary watcher looked and listened in vain for any sight or sound of the wanderers. In fact they were far to the northeast of the grove, near where "the town of Osceola was afterwards laid out — the team floundered hopelessly among the big sloughs, and the driver again pretty well confused as to the points of the compass. For miles the women had been driving the cows; Robert aiding the driver and keeping a sharp lookout for signals from William, or for game that would add to the repast if they reached the cabin fire. Mrs. Hall had been slowly growing worse, and finally crawled back into the crowded wagon in blank despair. Robert had been discharging his gun and blowing his bugle, in the vain hope of making somebody hear; but the dull and distant echoes were their only response. At last Mary's quiet courage began to give way, and she turned to the bewildered Mr. Parks, and said: 'For goodness' sake, take us somewhere; another night out now will kill Anne.' ' If there is nowhere to go to, how can I take you ?' curiously enough inquired the poor man. Soon after things had reached this crisis, somebody noted a glimmer near the western horizon; at first they feared it was but a star, but as they gradually drew nearer, concluded, not that it was 'a light in the window for thee', for well they knew the home they sought had no windows, but a light issuing from the open door of a cabin. Robert again blew a blast upon his bugle horn, which was answered by a shot from the cabin. So they made their way through the dense wood, over hills and through hollows, over fallen logs and swampy sloughs, and finally, about eleven o'clock p. m., drew up at the cabin door. A bed was soon made for the sick woman, and they carried her in, gave her tea and wine, composed themselves to rest with thankful hearts after their long and perilous journey of nearly five months' duration. And this was the strange coming home, the first 'house-warming' of the Halls in Illinois, and occurred on Friday, June 26, 1836. Mr. Parks went a mile or more to reach his own home. Mrs. Hall slept but little if any that night, and as she was restless and  anxious to see what the surroundings were, as soon as day dawned she arose, partially dressed, and quietly slipped out. As may be imagined, all that met her eye was a wild unbroken solitude, nothing save the rude hut that bore the impress of human hands, or that showed a human foot had ever approached the spot. The grass and weeds were tall as herself, and a heavy dew hung on them, glittering in the dawning light like frost-work. Whether overcome by conflicting emotions or by increasing weakness, she knows not, but she swooned and fell. When the men arose they were distressed to find her lying in an unconscious state beside the cabin wall. Again they carried her to her resting place in the corner, administered the best restoratives their circumstances permitted, and hung over her with anxious hearts. She soon rallied and begged them not to be alarmed; she said, 'It was only weakness induced by fatigue.' It was Saturday now, and knowing that the Sturms at Seeley's Point had horses to sell, Robert went to buy a team, which he did, getting Dick and Queen, two horses deservedly famous in the annals of the family for twenty years thereafter. But Mrs. Hall grew worse instead of better, and during the second (Saturday) night, was quite delirious, raving so piteously of past scenes that the courage of all faltered, and on Sunday  morning her husband was about starting back to Peoria, only fifty miles away, for a physician. Just then Mr. Parks rode up to inquire after the welfare of the new-comers, especially after the one he had left so sick. They told him their fears; he said what he could to allay them, and advised them not to go to Peoria yet. 'He would fetch Nancy (his wife) who had a good deal of experience among sick folks.' And soon the good woman came, and then and there began a series of ministrations to the sick and suffering for which she has long been held in grateful remembrance. Her knowledge of simple remedies, her words of encouragement and kind attentions in times of affliction were a real boon to the infant settlement. This kind old lady yet lives, having entered her ninety-third year, and an honored old age is hers.  'Her children have risen up to call her blessed,' and though her flesh is subject to many infirmities, yet is her spirit tranquil, and her faith looks steadfastly towards that brighter country, where the inhabitants never say, I am sick.' But to resume our story. Mrs. Hall soon recovered under good and careful nursing, and preparations for building themselves a house went rapidly forward. First, of course, trees must be felled for the logs, and this was awkward work for the Halls, as probably neither of them had ever swung an axe before, at least not such an axe as is used by the American backwoodsman to such advantage. But they worked with a will and whacked away at the trees all round, until by the time they were ready to fall they were literally whittled off to a point. This style of work could be seen as long as the first cabin stood and was the butt of numberless jokes among the neighbors touching the capabilities of Englishmen as woodchoppers! But the logs answered a good purpose, nevertheless; a story-and-half house was raised, a sawpit was dug in which a large two handled saw could be worked, and thus they made their own boards; the tools were unpacked and as William had some practical knowledge of their use, they soon had floors and battened doors, and windows with glass in them, which advantages were almost enough to make them 'take airs' over their neighbors, in those times. This house became a sort of headquarters for all incoming detachments, and if its half floored loft was sometimes so crowded with beds and their occupants, that some luckless wight occasionally made a sudden descent to the next floor, he was pretty sure to find a bed ready to catch him there, so no serious results followed, only some slight re-adjustment to secure safety the balance of the night. Here the weary 'itinerant' always found a home, and the pious of every name a welcome. Within its walls were assembled some of the first congregations that ever met for religious worship in the settlement. Often and again, have roof and rafters rang with the grand old hymns learned across the sea. Denmark' and 'Coronation,' 'Old Hundred' and 'Silver Street,' were 'the familiar paths their souls oft trod towards God.' The clear, full treble of the sisters chorcled well with the deep bass of William's voice and the tones of his great viol, making harmony that would have befitted better surroundings. In recalling this group, Mr. Cummings, the first missionary but lately said, 'They were right loyal Methodists of the true Wesley an type.' And it was William Hall who led the first class, formed at Wall's by this missionary (to which reference is made in another place) seven miles from his home, with an unbridged river intervening, and never missed an appointment in ten years! But the cabin long since gave place to a more modern and commodious structure, and the once familiar name of William Hall lives there no more save in memory, or on sculptured marble. A son who bore it, gave his life for his country in 1862, expiring in a Memphis hospital.  Edgar died at White's Station near Memphis in 1863."

Mrs. Ann Hall (deceased), who settled at Osceola Grove, June 26, 1836, died there October 24,1886, aged eighty-two years. As noted in other pages, she came with her husband from England, and for fifty years resided on the same spot, where over fifty years ago she saw their first humble home in America raised. Her husband, one son and two daughters preceded her to the grave. Four sons and eleven grandchildren now represent this branch of the pioneer Halls of Osceola Grove. She was one of the first persons in this district to join a Methodist class, and for a number of years her deceased husband was class leader. Even up to the period of her death she was looked upon as the only one who could speak authentically on the early history of that church in her neighborhood.

Robert Hall, son of Thomas and Sarah (Cokayne) Hall, came to the United States in 1836, and settled on the northeast quarter, section two, Elmira, on which he has since resided. He at once engaged in cultivating this claim, and as soon as the land came into market he purchased 160 acres. He was married January 9, 1840, to Miss Harriet Marsh, to whom nine children were born, six of whom are living, namely: Jane, James (married, living in Iowa), Esther (married, living in Iowa), Matilda, Charles (married, living on the old homestead), and Ellen (married, living in Osceola township). Mrs. Robert Hall was the daughter of Daniel C. and Esther (Pettibone) Marsh, the former being a native of Connecticut, who moved to Pennsylvania while in his youth, and the latter, Esther, was a native of Pennsylvania,. Her grandfather, Oliver Pettibone, at the time of the Wyoming massacre was eighteen years old, and his father at that time removed to Massachusetts, and remained there until Oliver Pettibone married Martha Payne. After this marriage he returned to Wyoming, Pa., his father returning with him. The Pettibones are, as far as known, in Pennsylvania yet. Daniel Marsh, father of Mrs. Hall, remained in that state until his death in 1865. Her mother, Esther Marsh, came to Illinois in 1834, to see a daughter, Mrs. Judge Holgate, and she was taken sick and died while there, and is buried on the Holgate farm. Robert Hall has always been engaged in farming and stock-growing. He has added considerable land to his original purchase, but has given it to his children, retaining only the old homestead of 160 acres, on which he now resides. He is a republican in politics, but has always been opposed to office, yet the people have elected him to several township positions. He is not a member of any church, but gives with a liberal hand to all denominations that are in need.

John M. Hatch came from Vermont to Elmira township, in 1851.

James Monroe Jackson, son of Cyrus and Zaravia (Winters) Jackson, was born June 4, 1825, in Luzerne county, Pa. His father and mother were born in Connecticut. It appears both families moved to Pennsylvania, where Cyrus Jackson married. In 1831 the family moved to New York state, and in 1837 to what is now Penn township of Stark county. Their children are named as follows: Melinda, married, a resident of Henry county; James M., a resident of this township; Sylvia, who died in 1845; Sylvester, married, a citizen of Iowa; Andrew, married, also in Iowa, and Clarissa, married, a resident of this county. The father resided in Penn township until his death in March, 1844, and the mother died in later years as related in pioneer history. James M. came with his parents to this State and shared their pioneer labors until after his father's death. On August 11, 1844, he married Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Henry and Catherine (Dall) Sturms, also pioneers of this county. They are the parents of ten children, namely: Henry, of this township, married; Cyrus, of Kingold county, Iowa, single; John, of the same county, married; Brady F. and Walter, of the same county, married; Rebecca, married in Toulon township; Washington, of Hayes county, Neb., married; Tilly, married, a resident of Toulon township; Ella, married, residing in this township and Ernest, single, residing with parents. Mr. Jackson at one time was a member of the United Brethren Church, but of late years has attended the American Presbyterian Church. For over 15 years he has served as school director and in political life is a  Douglas Democrat. His agricultural and stock-growing interests claim his sole attention.

Col. William Jackson, born in Rosshire, Scotland, May 11, 1834, is the son of Thomas and Isabella (Hyslop) Jackson, the former born in Roxburghshire, Scotland, in 1800, was the son of Adam and Ellen Jackson, descended from a family (in Scotland) of shepherds. Adam Jackson was in his day a famous hunter, earning the title of "King of the Hunters." Adam and Ellen had a family of seven children, Thomas being the third son. He married Miss Isabella Hyslop in 1827 in Roxburghshire, and removed to the Highlands of Scotland in 1833, still following the vocation of shepherd. They had, when they emigrated to the Highlands, two children, namely, Elizabeth and Adam. Isabella, the wife of Thomas Jackson, was the daughter of Adam and Elizabeth (Balentine) Hyslop, both natives of Scotland, Adam Hyslop being a laborer, and the Balentines, like the Jacksons, being shepherds. Thomas Jackson remained in the Highlands for eighteen years, where six more children were born to them, namely, William, now colonel of the Fourth Illinois National Guards; John. James, Walter, David and Ellen. Thomas emigrated to America in 1850, and settled in Elmira township, where he purchased 107 acres from Thomas Turnbull on northwest quarter-section 27. There he engaged in farming, and remained on his first purchase until his death, which occurred August 6, 1855. His wife still survives him, living at the advanced age of eighty-three in Elmira with her son William. William Jackson  remained with his father during his boyhood as a sheep-herder, receiving a part of his education in Scotland. He came with his parents to America in 1850, and engaged in farming up to the beginning of the rebellion of 1861. On the 12th of June, 1861, he enlisted in what was known as the Elmira Rifles, commanded by Capt. Charles Stuart, and went into Camp Douglas, Chicago, June 12th, where the command was mustered into the service by Capt. Pitcher on the 17th of June of the same year, and assigned to the Nineteenth Illinois Volunteer Infantry as Company B. He enlisted as first sergeant; promoted to orderly sergeant; promoted to second lieutenant October 13, 1861; promoted to first lieutenant July 15, 1862; served his term of enlistment, and was mustered out at the expiration of service on the 9th of July, 1864, at Chicago. Returning to this county, he engaged in farming and stock-growing, purchasing a farm in Elmira township. He was married to  Miss Louisa A. Stone, February 3, 1869, daughter of Liberty and Julia (Winslow) Stone, both of whom are noticed in the history of Osceola. They are the parents of seven children, named as follows: Rollo S., Walter T., William II., Nellie M., Julia W., Chester R., and James E. Colonel Jackson has been for years connected with the militia of the state. On July 7, 1874, he organized a militia company known as the Elmira Zouaves, and was elected captain. When this command was attached to the Fourth regiment, Illinois National Guards, second brigade, he was elected major; he was promoted to lieutenant-colonel; commissioned colonel of the Fourth Illinois National Guards, April 7, 1880, as related in the military chapter. This regiment was in active service during the strike of 1877 at East St. Louis for ten days, and assisted in restoring order in that town. While they were in service, they also assisted in restoring order on the several lines running out of East St. Louis through Iowa, and along the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy lines at Galesburg and other points. The colonel is a member of the Masonic lodge, joining the order in 1877; also being a Royal Arch Mason; he is also a charter member of James Jackson Post No. 37, Grand Army of the Republic, and junior vice-commander of the department of Illinois. He has been commander of his home post for eight years. He is not a member of any church, but lends his support to the Presbyterian society. In  politics he is a staunch republican, and boasts of the fact that he has never scratched a ticket. He has held the supervisor's office for one term, and has been commissioner of highways for nine years. In school matters he has always been interested, and has assisted largely in bringing the school system of his township up to its present high standard, being director for a number of years. His home near Elmira is one of those referred to at the beginning of the chapter.

David Jackson, born in Rosshire, Scotland, March 15, 1844, is the son of Thomas and Isabella Jackson, old settlers of this county, whose history is given in this chapter. For eighteen years he shared their pioneer labors, and in September, 1862, enlisted in Company B, Nineteenth Illinois Infantry, completing his term of service in 1865. In 1866, with his brother William, he purchased two hundred and thirty acres on Section 28, and has since devoted his attention to agriculture. He married Miss Elizabeth J., daughter of Robert and Mary Ann (Macgraell) Rainey. Her parents came to America in their youth from Ireland, settled at Philadelphia, and there were married in 1851. After his marriage, and up to the period of his death, he was engaged in weaving ingrain carpets. His widow remarried, and now resides at Modena, while the survivor of his two children is the happy wife of Captain Jackson. A reference to the history of the United Presbyterian church, to the G. Army Post, Odd Fellows, history of schools, political and military chapters, and other sections of this work will point out minutely the place which this family has held here. For eight years he was a member and Lieutenant of the Elmira Zouaves, and when that company was mustered into the Fourth Illinois National Guards elected Captain, July 25, 1877, and again promoted to Major of the Fourth Illinois National Guards, April 7, 1880. During the unfortunate "strike" of 1877 he was on active service with his command. His farm adjoins that of his brother William, and the two homes are connected, by private road. In addition to his large acreage of rich Elmira land, he holds eighty acres of timber land, is interested in stock-growing, and from a period prior to coming of age, has held an important place in the esteem of his acquaintances and the history of the township.

John Jackson, born in Rosshire, Scotland, August 15, 1830, is the son of Thomas and Isabella (Hyslop) Jackson. He passed his younger years as a shepherd in Scotland, received a common school education there, and emigrated to America with his father in 1850, and settled in this township.  He was married September 10, 1860, to Miss Eliza Ann Montooth, daughter of Samuel and Jennie Montooth, both natives of Ireland. His wife lived but four years after their marriage, her death taking place in October, 1864. He married July 3, 1879, Miss Abby Stuart, daughter of Seth and Sally (Harvey) Stuart, both natives of Vermont, noticed in the history of Osceola township. His first purchase of land was in Osceola township, in 1863, being 160 acres. This he sold in 1864, and in 1868 he purchased 160 acres in Elmira, his present place of residence. To his second marriage four children were born, namely: Myrtle J., Isabella F., Ida S., and Charles M., all residing at home. In politics he is a Republican, but takes no active part in campaigns. Like his brothers, he takes a deep interest in school matters, having been director for years, and at present clerk of the board of directors. He was a member of the Union League while that was in existence. Mr. and Mrs. Jackson are members of the American Presbyterian church, of Elmira and are considered among the first supporters of everything bearing on the social and agricultural progress of this division of the county.

Adam Jackson, son of Thomas and Isabella (Hyslop) Jackson, and grandson of Adam and Ellen Jackson, was born in Roxburghshire, Scotland, August 9, 1831, of which county his people were natives. One of his uncles served under Wellington at Waterloo. His father was married in 1827. They were the parents of eight children, namely: Betty, married here; Adam, above named, William and John, married, citizens of this township; James, killed during the Rebellion ; Walter, deceased; David residing here, and Ellen, married in Toulon Township. Thomas Jackson came to America with his family in 1850, purchased 106 acres of land here, and was engaged in farming and stock-growing until his death, August 6, 1855. His wife still lives here with one of her sons, at an advanced age. Adam Jackson's boyhood was passed as a Scottish shepherd. On coming here he assisted his father in making the family home. On March 20, 1862, he married Miss Agnes, daughter of Thomas and Janet (Scott) Murray, natives of Scotland, who immigrated hither. The same year he purchased 160 acres of land, erected a house thereon, and here has resided down to the present time. Of their fifteen children, ten are living, the eldest, Janet, being married and a resident of this township. Mr. Jackson, in business matters, has devoted his attention solely to farming. He has never been a member of a secret society, but for twenty-four years has been a consistent member of the United Presbyterian church. He has served as director of his school district for several years. In political affairs he votes with the Republican party.

James L. Jackson, a former settler of the county, died in Taylor County, Iowa, in January, 18S3.

John Leason, better known as Deacon John Leason, finds mention in several pages of this work. In the marriage record many members of his family find a notice. On June 27,1861, the venerable Deacon was taken from his home at dead of night by a number of men who entered his house. An alarm was given and the people turning out, promptly hunted the assaulting parties to their den. Horror stricken, one confessed, and as a result, Charles Wilson, Enos Mix, George Bodle, Robert Alexander, Miles Avery and George Whitehead were arrested. They were tried before Justices Buswell and Winslow and a jury of twelve men, and fined $25, which the jury considered then equal to $100 in ordinary times.

William Leason. (Vide sketch of C. L. Gerard)

Thomas Lyle. (Vide sketch of Asa A. Bunion.)

Carlos B. Lyle, son of Thomas and Mary J. (Craig) Lyle, was born in this township, November 1, 181-2. Thomas Lyle came to the United States with his father, when seven years of age, and with him resided in Vermont. Carlos B. was with him during all his earlier years until sent to Abingdon to attend Hedding college. Even after spending two terms there he enlisted as soon as he got home in 1864, in Company H, One-hundred-and-thirty-fourth Illinois Infantry, with which command he served until mustered out, as shown in the military chapter. On March 21, 1865, he married Miss Mary S., daughter of Levi and Tirza (Powell) Ingles, natives of Virginia and Ohio respectively. To this union seven children were born, namely: Noble A., Charles M., Daisy E., Nellie E., Thomas E., Emma M., and one who is numbered among the dead. His farm on section 17 is a model one. Subjected to systematic cultivation since the war by him, it shows the effect of his care. Here, too, he is engaged in stock-growing. In religious matters Mr. Lyle is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and Mrs. Lyle, of the American Presbyterian church. In politics he is a characteristic Republican, was a member of the Union League in war times, and is today senior vice-commander of James Jackson Post, No. 37, G. A. P. A reference to the pioneer chapter of the general history and to the sketch of Elmira township will point out more definitely the part taken by the family, of which Mr. Lyle is a member, in the settlement and progress of this county.

Horace E. Lyle, son of Thomas and Mary Jane (Craig) Lyle, was born in this township May 3, 1852; was educated here, and shared in all the labors of his pioneer father until 1876. On March 23 of that year he married Miss Ida M., daughter of William and Elizabeth (Lyle) Perkins. In this year also he engaged in agricultural work for himself, and continued solely on the farm until 1880, when he purchased Fell & Starrett's meat market at Toulon, which he carried on there for two years, meantime attending to his farm. On disposing of this market, he engaged in buying and shipping stock, and this business he now carries on in connection with the farm of 352 acres. To Mr. and Mrs. Lyle four children were born : Mabel, in 1877, died September 7, 1880; Gertrude, born December 2S, 1878; Horace B., July 1, 1881, and James Bartlette, June 29, 1883. Mr. Lyle has always been a Republican. In religious matters he supports every church needing or asking help; in business he is energetic and enterprising, and in social and township affairs, like his parents, always prominent and reliable.

Finley Mathison, an old settler of the township, referred to in other pages, died January 11, 1883, in his sixty-third year.

George S. Maynard, son of Ephraim and Betsy (Hubbard) Maynard, was born in Franklin county, Vt., April 7, 1827. Ephraim was the son of an English emigrant, who settled at Oakham, Mass., who on account of lameness did not serve in the Revolution. In 1801 this Ephraim removed to Vermont (two years after his marriage with Miss Hubbard in Massachusetts), and was a farmer there until his death, in August, 1856. Of his fifteen children, three are living: Mrs. Vashti Field, of Fairfax, Vt.; Charles T., of Bakersfield, Vt., and George S., named above. George S., on coming of age, entered a boot and shoe factory at Westboro, remained there six years, and then moved to Osceola township in 1853 or 1854. In the fall of 1856 he settled in Minnesota, and farmed there until the spring of 1868, when he settled in Elmira, where he purchased eighty acres, on section 26. In August, 1856, he married Miss Esther A. Dugan, a native of Massachusetts, of which State her parents were also natives. Their children are: Helen M., now Mrs. F. J. Fuller, of Wyoming; Clara, also married, residing at home, and Charles E., of this township. On February 26, 1868, Mr. Maynard married Miss Rose, daughter of James and Jane (Woods) Hamilton, natives of Vermont, and granddaughter of Petiah and Hannah (Hallanan) Hamilton, of Maine and Massachusetts, respectively, and of Ebenezer Woods, a soldier of the Revolution and subsequently of the secret police or revenue force. To this union three children were born, of whom Pearl H. and Cora A. are living. He has been a Republican since 1856; he leans toward Methodism, but is not a member of any church.  For over twelve years he has served on the district school board, and for years has been  connected with Bradford Lodge, 579, I. O. O. F. Mrs. Maynard is a member of the Gaelic church of Elmira. In business affairs his excellent farm and stock farm have claimed all his attention since his second settlement in this county. Outside business, anything which seems to affect the county, claims his close study, and on its merits his support or opposition.

Donald McDonald, born in Shieldag, Parish of Applecross, Rosshire, Scotland, July 20, 1820, is the son of John and Ann (McKenzie) McDonald, and grandson of Finlay and Mary (Frazer) McDonald, descendants of the few brave men of that clan who escaped English treachery at the massacre of Glencoe. John was married in 1808, and to this union eight children were born, four of whom are living, Finlay, in Marshall county, Kan., Donald, of Elmira, John of Union county, Ore., and Anna Belle, Marshall county, Kan. The father died in 1857 just on the eve of his departure for America. Four weeks later his widow left Scotland forever, and died in Kansas in 1866. Donald in early years was a fisherman and at one time a postman (letter carrier). He well remembers when the postage on a letter from Carolina to Rosshire was $1.25, and from Nova Scotia, 62 1/2 cents; from Gasgaw, 20 cents, and from Inverness to Sheldag, 60 miles, 16 cents. In 1840 he apprenticed himself to a gardener, subsequently worked in Yester gardens, next at Edinburg, and also in several gardens and nurseries in England. In 1849 he married Miss Ann, daughter of Finlay and Catherine (McLean) Murchison, relatives of Sir Roderick Murchison, secretary of the foreign missionary society of London, England, who died there some time ago. In 1850 a short time before Mr. McDonald went on the Glasgow police force, one child was born, to them, William, who died December 31, 1851, here as the family left Glasgow for Canada in July, 1851, arrived at Quebec in August, and ultimately settled in Elmira. On the voyage Charley E., who died March 23, 1860, was horn July 26, 1851. On arriving here he husked corn at fifty cents per day, worked a second month for $10, then started out in search of work, found employment on a railroad at Utica on the R. I. R., at one dollar per day, but not relishing this work moved to Peoria, where he secured a position in a nursery. There he labored over two years, when he purchased a tax title to a quarter section on 19 Elmira, settled there in 1855, and has since been engaged in agriculture and stock-growing. He has raised and educated two nephews, and now has two adopted children, Charley and Tilly. Mr. McDonald and wife are members of Knox church; he is a school director, Republican in politics, and, as a citizen, is all that one with such experiences should be, useful and intelligent.

Harriet J. (Woods) McKenzie was born in Indiana April 24, 1845, and came to her sister's, Mrs. Mauck, in Elmira, about the year 1864. On January 17,1865, she was united in marriage to John C. McKenzie, died January 6, 1887, in her forty-second year.

William Moffitt, son of David and Elizabeth (Nicholl) Moffitt, natives of Antrim county, Ireland, was born in that county and died here in April, 1879, aged fifty-five years. William Moffitt received a liberal education in his native country, and coming to the United States in 1845, worked at the weaver's trade in Philadelphia until 1854 when he moved west to Elmira, where his brother-in-law, William McBride, had hitherto settled and carried on a blacksmith shop. Here lie learned the trade, worked a few years for McBride, and established his own shop in the "Oliver settlement." In a short time after he established a carpet-weaving factory, bringing a loom from Philadelphia. Both industries he carried on up to the time of his death. Before leaving Ireland he promised to marry Ann Jane Leech, and from his first earnings in Philadelphia he sent her money to come over. Like a true girl she responded and on the day of her arrival in Philadelphia they were married in 1848. The lady died in 1866, and is buried in the Elmira cemetery. Both of them were rare lovers of literature, the old gentleman being thoroughly conversant with all the leading writers, and a supporter of fifty-two weekly newspapers. William Moffitt's parents came to Philadelphia in 1848 with a young family. Some time later they moved to Henry county, Ill., purchased a farm near Weathersfield where the father died in 1854. The mother is still a resident of Kewanee, residing with her daughter, Mrs. Elizabeth, wife of John Moffitt. Of William Moffitt's children, six are living, namely, John L., a minister of the Methodist Episcopal church in Colorado; George W., a resident of Stark county, referred to in local history; Margaret L., wife of Fred Fleming, of Toulon township; Eleanor L., wife of George Critzman, of Kewanee, and Anne J., wife of Jesse Fleming, a farmer of Elmira. The great-great-grandfather was James Moffitt, who was the father of five children, James, born in 1789, David, Jane, William and John. William came to Philadelphia in 1831, James in 1840, and David in 1845. Jane and her family settled in Australia early in the forties. David and his family moved from Philadelphia to Illinois; John went first to Scotland, but ultimately came to the United States. Robert Nichol, David Moffitt's father-in-law, was a soldier in the British army, was in Jamaica fifty years ago, and it is supposed that some of his children are still there. Many of the grandchildren of those Moffitt's are today scattered throughout the country, but the greater number of their children have crossed the unknown ocean.

Samuel Montooth, born in Tyrone county, Ireland, in 1799, and his wife, born there in 1810, came to the United States in 1830  and to Elmira township in 1858. Lieutenant Hunter, who married their daughter, was killed at Murfreesboro.

Robert Moore, named in the history of Elmira township, who married Margaret Clark, moved from Lancaster county, Pa., to St.  Genevieve county, Mo., in the spring of 1822, and operated a mill there until 1835, when, as one of the Peoria colony, he purchased some claims in what is now Elmira township, this county, and took a full share in its first improvement. His family consisted of four sons and six daughters, all deceased with the exception of Robert M. Moore, of Toulon. The latter carried on his Elmira farm for thirty years. In 1844 he married Miss Maria, daughter of Hewes White; in 1874 this lady died, and the same year the family moved to Toulon. Samuel, Orlando and Corydon, her sons, are favorably known here. The two first-named are residents of Barton county, Mo., and the last of Toulon township. His second marriage was with Mrs. Lucina Petteys Van Dewater, a native of Oneida county, N. Y. This lady's two daughters are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mrs. Moore died January 3, 1887, in her fifty-fourth year.

George Murray, son of Thomas and Janet (Scott) Murray, whose history is given in this chapter, was born in Roxburghshire, Scotland, May 12,1840. He came to the United States with his parents in 1853, and here completed a liberal education. On growing to manhood he purchased eighty acres and at once engaged in agriculture and stock-raising. In 1867 he added eighty acres, sold the 160 acres in 1874, and the same year purchased 240 acres on sec. 27; 80 acres on sec. 26, and eighty acres on sec. 24, to which he has since added 160 acres.  With this well-improved farm of 560 acres he has one of the finest farm residences in the whole county, which was completed last year, lawn and grounds well laid out and planted with ornamental trees and shrubbery, one of the best equipped farm yards in the county—all the result of a quarter century's attention to his business and an intelligent appreciation of the true position which a farmer should occupy. He was married in 1866 to Miss Lusetta, daughter of Smith and Sarah (Jordan) Woodward, natives of Pennsylvania. Of  eight children born to them, seven are living, namely:—Orville, Margaret J., Nina J., Smith A., Lusetta, John T., and Evalina, all residing at home or attending school. In politics he is a Republican, but farther than inquiring closely into a candidate's principles he does not meddle much in them. School interests always claim his attention and he is now school trustee. In religious matters he is not a church member but supports the United Presbyterian Society. He commenced his battle with the world "barehanded" and conquered it.

William Murray, son of Thomas and Janet (Scott) Murray, natives of Scotland, was born in Roxburghshire, May 22, 1835. Mr. Murray's father was born September 10, 1807 and his mother 1806. Both were descended from a long line of farmers, and when coming to America, in 1853, with their six children, their intention was to adhere to this independent life. The father died here August 8, 1854, his wife survived to see her highest hopes for the family realized, and died here May 27, 1873. William Murray is the third son of this family. David and Gideon, his elder brothers, reside in Elmira and Toulon, respectively: Agnes and George also reside here, while Thomas, the youngest, lives at Des Moines, Iowa. In February, 1863, William married Miss Isabelle, daughter of Robert A. and Hannah Faerbairn, Scottish farmers, who came to the United States in July, 1859. Mr. Murray purchased eighty acres in Elmira, which he sold in a few years and settled on a farm of 160 acres in Toulon township. After a residence of nine years there, he sold that farm and purchased 240 acres in Elmira, where he has made his home since and erected one of those comfortable farm residences common in this township. To Mr. and Mrs. Murray seven children were born, the oldest dying in infancy, six now living, namely: Hannah, Thomas S., James, Janet E., Agnes J. and Eliza, all residing with parents. The family belong to the United Presbyterian Church, and like their father are Republican in sentiment  arid practice. To follow Mr. Murray's connection with the social, official and industrial life of the township and county rather belongs to history than to biography, and therefore, in the pages devoted to history, many references to him are made.

Thomas Nicholas died at the house of James Cinnamon July, 1883, aged seventy-two years. He came from Pennsylvania in 1843, settling at Lacon, Ills.

Adam Oliver (deceased) was born December 14,1814, in Roxburghshire, Scotland. His parents, Thomas and Margaret (Fife) Oliver, were also natives of that country; were married there in 1814; moved to the Highlands some years later, and in 1837 came with their ten children to the United States. The names of this large family are given as follows: Adam (deceased), Margaret (married), of this township; Betsey (married) a resident of Henry county; Andrew (married), of this township; Charlotte (deceased); Ann (unmarried), residing here; William (married), residing in Henry county; Thomas (married), a resident of this township; Henry H. (married), also residing here, and John (married), of Audubon county, Iowa. The head of this family in the United States pushed westward without delay, settled at Osceola Grove, bat moved in 1840 to the west side of the township, where he resided until his death, May 8, 1885. There also his wife died. Adam passed his earlier years on the lowland farm, and later assisted his father in the duties of shepherd in the Highlands. His father instructed him in writing, reading and figures so well that when of age he engaged in teaching school. On coming here he took charge of much of his father's business and remained with him until 1846, when he married Miss Polly Ann Parks. This lady died at the birth of her only child who bears the same name. In 1849 he married Miss Agnes Davidson, a grand niece of James Davidson, the "Dandy Dinmont" of Scott's "Guy Mannering," and daughter of George and Jessie (Robertson) Davidson (married in 1824), who came from Roxburghshire, Scotland, to Marshall county, Ill., with their five children in 1841. Her father died there in October, 1865. Adam and Mrs. Oliver were the parents of six children, of whom four are living—Margaret F., of this township (married); Jessie (married), residing at Harvard, Neb.; George T. (married), residing on the homestead, and Ella M., residing here with her mother. It is said that he never had an enemy. In political life he was a Republican; in religion, a member of the United Presbyterian church, and in all relations strictly upright. His death took place May 8, 1885. (Vide History of Elmira.)

Andrew Oliver, son of Thomas and Margaret (Fife) Oliver, was born in Roxburghshire, Scotland, March 20, 1820. He is a brother of the late Adam Oliver referred to above, and like him a pioneer of this county, coming here with the family in 1837 and sharing all their fortunes until 1849, when he married Miss Ellen, daughter of William and Mary Turnbull, a native of Scotland, and like himself a pioneer of this section. Of their six children Mary, the eldest, is the only survivor. In 1846 Andrew Oliver traveled to Dixon, Ill., and then entered and purchased his first farm on section 31, Elmira township. To this original tract he has added 700 acres here, together with owning 2,000 acres in Pawnee county, Neb. In 1860 his first wife died, and in November, 1861, he married Miss Elizabeth, daughter of James Armstrong, a notice of whom appears in this chapter. They are the parents of four children — Esther (married), residing at Toulon; Belle M., Agnes J., and an infant who is deceased. Mr. Oliver has filled the position of supervisor of the township for three terms, assessor for several terms, and almost all the minor offices. He is a stockholder in the first National Bank of Kewanee and in the Haxtun steam heater company. He has been ever identified with religious matters, and is named among the founders of the American Presbyterian Church of Elmira. The several parts taken by members of this family in the settlement and progress of this county are told in detail in these pages.

Henry Hall Oliver, born in Rosshire, Scotland, in January, 1832, is the son of Thomas and Margaret (Fife) Oliver, whose family history is given above and whose settlement here is noted in the general as well as in the township history. In 1837 he came to this county with them, but afterwards resided with his brother-in-law, John Turnbull for fifteen years. During this time he studied in the district schools and labored on the farm. In 1851 he entered the Presbyterian College of Macomb, studied engineering, and for two years followed this profession in the employ of a railroad company. In 1856 he entered the Monmouth College and took a scientific course. Also filled the position of tutor there, as he had previously done while attending the college at Macomb. His health failing, he was forced to forego the pleasures of college life, and the wide field of success in his profession, which appeared open to him, and so returned to Elmira and resumed farming or rather entered upon the agriculturalist's life in earnest. In 1857 he married Miss Mary, daughter of Finley and Catherine (McLean) Murchison, whose history is given in that of Donald McDonald's family. Of nine children born to this marriage, six are living, namely: David W., engaged in farming on the homestead ; Margaret E., a teacher in the Toulon Academy; Katie E., attending the Northwestern University; William H. and Charlotte J., students of the Toulon Academy, and Agnes B., residing at home. Mrs. Oliver is a member of the Highland or Canadian Presbyterian Church, and of this also her husband is a member and official. Since 1862 Mr. Oliver has been extensively engaged in buying and shipping stock as well as in stock-growing and farming. The home farm, which he inherited from his father, he has increased to four hundred acres, on which stands his fine residence. This farm is among the richest in this district of fertile lands, is fully improved and equipped in buildings, machinery and implements. In politics he is decidedly republican; zealous, yet tolerant in religion, unostentatious and refined in manner. His home is a synonym for genuine hospitality. In official life, the testimony to his character is indeed substantial, as he has for twenty years been a school director; supervisor of Elmira for several terms, and also surveyor of the county.

Thomas Oliver's residence was destroyed by fire on the morning of September 15, 1886. His father-in-law, W. H Turnbull, was burned so badly that he died the afternoon of that day. Building, furniture, records, etc., were a total loss. The origin of the fire is a mystery. The flames were first discovered by Mr. Oliver's daughter. Mr. Turnbull, who was about seventy-five years old, was sleeping in an upstairs chamber, and succeeded in getting down stairs to the kitchen, where he became overpowered by the heat, and was dragged out badly burned. This prominent old settler has resolved to re-enact the pioneer drama in the west.

Matthew Buchanan Parks, son of William and Agnes (Buchanan) Parks, was born in Washington county, Va., August 15, 1818. His father was born in Cumberland county. Pa., March 7, 1777, where Joseph Parks (a native of Ireland and a tailor by trade), grandfather of Matthew, had settled prior to the Revolution. Joseph's wife, Rebecca Clark, was a native of England who came to America with her people before the Revolution, and met and married Mr. Parks in Cumberland county, Pa., and moved to Augusta county, Va. The founder of this family in the United States now lies in the cemetery near his Virginia home. In 1810 William Parks, a millwright, married Miss Agnes Buchanan. This lady was a daughter of Matthew Buchanan, who served in the Revolution under General Campbell at Kings Mountain, and with two companies sent against the Indians in Kentucky. His wife was Elizabeth Edmondson. To them seven children were born, namely: Granville C, a widower of Bureau county; Eliza, unmarried, residing here; Rebecca who died in 1855; Matthew B., of Elmira, Polly Ann died March 29, 1847; Joseph, unmarried, and Nancy H., unmarried, residing here. The family moved from Virginia to Macon county, Ill., in 1835 ; but after a very brief stay there, William located 160 acres of land in what is now Elmira township, erected the first house ever built in Elmira on this land, and resided therein until 1842, when he moved out of the timber "onto the prairie," and there, so soon as the lands were offered for sale, entered 280 acres. He was engaged in farming and stock-raising until his death. His wife was born in Washington county, Virginia, October 13, 1785, of which state her parents were natives, of the descendants from Scotch-Irish Buchanans of Lancaster county, Pa. She died in 1877. Matthew B. has always been a bachelor citizen, represented his township on the supervisors' board for a number of terms, and tilled nearly all the township offices. He resides on the old Park Homestead with his sisters, Eliza and Nancy H., and his brother Joseph. The latter is a member of the Baptist church, while Matthew B. is not a member of any society, though a supporter of the Presbyterian Church. In the family circle all questions affecting their interests are thoroughly discussed, and dissenting opinions so expressed as to leave no room whatsoever for discord.

William, G. Perkins, born in Orange county, Vermont, January 19, 1819, is the son of Lemuel and Lucretia (Gentleman) Perkins. Lemuel Perkins was a native of New Hampshire. He was the son of Timothy Perkins and Betsy Gentleman. Timothy Perkins, a native of England, was a soldier in the revolutionary war, and after the war he engaged in farming in the state of New Hampshire, remaining there until his death. Betsy Gentleman was a native of Connecticut, her parents coming from France. Lemuel Perkins enlisted for the war of 1812 at the age of fourteen, served seven years in the army, and after the war he engaged in the cooper trade. He was married in 1817 to Lucretia Gentleman, and had by her two children, the subject of our sketch being the oldest. Daniel died when two years old, in the town of Tapsham, Orange county, Vt. His wife died in 1823, and in 1833 he married Miss Hetty Pomeroy, a native of Vermont, by whom he had one child, Jane, who married and is living at Tapsham, Vt. He remained in Vermont the greater part of his life, and died there about the year 1838. The subject of our sketch passed his boyhood on a farm. When he was old enough to take part in heavy labor he helped to cut the timber and then assisted in building the second steamboat that ever ran on Lake Champlain, called the Burlington, commanded by Capt. Sherman. He became a boatsman on the boat, followed the lake marine for a short time, and in October, 1840, he left Buffalo, N. Y., for Chicago, Ill., being nine days making the trip. After landing in Chicago he removed to Ottawa, of this state, and engaged in teaming and breaking prairie. He was married in November, 1846, to Miss Elizabeth Lyle, daughter of William and Atlanta (Darling) Lyle. After his marriage he was employed on the Chicago & LaSalle or Illinois canal, and worked at this until the canal was finished, being the man who drew the last stone, and also helped to place the last stone on this great public work. After he finished his canal job he engaged in farming, and remained so engaged until 1856, when he removed to Kansas, where he made a stay of a few months. For a short time afterwards he traveled around, first from one state to another, but in 1857 he settled in Elmira township, purchased 160 acres on section 8, and engaged in farming and stock-raising. Remaining on his first purchase until 1866, he purchased 160 acres on section 9,  and removed to it, and has remained on this purchase up to the present, having added forty acres more to his last purchase in Elmira, and 330 acres in Osceola township. He has, since coming to Stark county, been engaged in farming and stock-growing.  In politics he is democratic; is not a member of any church, but supports all denominations alike. He has a family of ten children, namely: Hazen H., married and living at Kewanee; Charlotte, married, living at Chicago; Charles E., married, living in Penn township; Mary, married, living in Elmira township; William L., unmarried, living in Osceola township; James, unmarried, living in Osceola township, Ida M., married, living in Elmira township; Phoebe, married, living in Osceola township; John, at home; George, married, living at home. The subject of our sketch in an early day was looked upon as being king of the hunters in this county, having, in company with his old hunting friend, David Fulk, of Osceola, killed the last deer that there is any record of in this township.

Gideon Potter, son of Thomas and Olive (Northrup) Potter, natives of Yorkshire, England, and Michigan, respectively, was born at Hamilton, Canada, August 21, 1847. His father was a sash and door maker, who enlisted in the English army, and came with a division of that army to Canada, in 1837-8, to beat back the patriots who sought liberty for their country. On being discharged, after his term of service, he moved to Michigan, married there, returned to Canada where he resided until 1853, when he left en route to Missouri. At Chicago he was taken sick and died there. His family scattered, Thomas and Ann are known to be deceased, while Gideon resides here. The latter, at the age of seven years, was "bound out" to a Missouri farmer named W. H. Elliott, with whom he remained until 1859, when, owing to the hardship of his work, he eloped, found his way to Nauvoo, Ill., and worked for a man named Bartlett there until 1864, when he moved to the Bartlett, Sr., farm near town. In 1865 he left him and was variously engaged until May, 1867, when he enlisted in Company F, 13th United States infantry, and served three years at Ft. Ellis and Ft. Shaw, M. T. Subsequently he engaged in herding and farming in that territory for Chip Travis, returned to Illinois and for thirty months engaged in fruit-growing in Hancock county. He next was a farmer near Denver, Col., returned to Sonora, Ill., and on November 30, 1874, married Miss Emily Thompson, daughter of Harvey and Lois (Crosby) Thompson, of Osceola, Ill., who was born there, her parents being natives of Vermont and Massachusetts  respectively, but both of old families in the latter State. For five years after this he engaged in fruit-growing, and then came to Osceola village, where he purchased the mercantile interests of A. F. Spencer and established his present business. His children are: David, born October 13,1875, and Rollin, September 25, 1880. In politics he is a Republican. Religiously he inclines toward the Baptists, but is not a member of any church. Officially he has served as school director and on the board of cemetery trustees. Though not a pioneer of this celebrated pioneer neighborhood, he claims many warm friends, and stands as high in the communal circle as he does in the commercial.

John F. Reed, born at Reed's Grove, Will county, Ill., September 7, 1851, is the son of George W. and Mary (Straeder) Reed, both natives of Indiana, as related in the chapter on Osceola township. Mr. Reed passed his boyhood days in assisting his father in farm work, or attending the school of the district. At the age of nineteen years he attended the graded schools at Toulon and subsequently studied in the Bradford schools. Adopting the profession of teacher, he would preside over a school for one term, and the next attend school at the Wesleyan University, Bloomington. He also studied in the Illinois Industrial University, at Champaign. Since completing his education he has been engaged in teaching school, and is now in the thirteenth year of his professional work. On June 19,1878, he married Miss Frances I. Searl, daughter of I. W. and Charlotte (Furness) Searl, natives of Pennsylvania. To them three children were born, namely: Mary E., Ralph L. and George H. Reed. Mr. Reed has always been Republican in politics, and, it is said, wields the pen for the good of his party, whenever the thought of doing so occurs to him. He is an excellent teacher and is now filling his fourth engagement in the schools of District No. 3 or Elmira village. While Mr. Reed is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, his wife is a member of the Baptist Church, and in these societies they exert their influence for good. (Vide, also, history of Osceola township.)

Simon B. Spencer, born at Peacham, Vt., December 27, 1821, is the son of Samuel, born October 26, 1777, and Betsy (Currier) Spencer, natives of Windham county, N. H., and Boxford, Mass., respectively; and grandson of Ebenezer and Mary (Robinson)  Spencer, descended from one of the three Spencer brothers who came from England, and from the Robinsons, who settled in New Hampshire among its pioneers. Betsy Currier is the daughter of David and Elizabeth (Peabody) Currier (the latter raised by Gen. Putnam's sister), natives of Massachusetts. She married Samuel Spencer about 1803, Rev. Leonard Wooston officiating. To them six children were born, viz., Sarah, born in 1804, residing in Rock Island county; Isaac, born March 26, 1812, died in Elmira, December 27, 1884; Betsy, born January 1, 1817, married Dan N. Beall in 1836, resides in Rock Island county, and celebrated their golden wedding in 1886; Simon B. resides here, and two died in infancy. In 1842, Simon B. Spencer set out for the west, arrived in Elmira, May 19th, and worked for his brother Isaac at eleven dollars per month. Early in 1843, he revisited Vermont, returned in the fall with his father, mother and elder sister, and completed the Spencer settlement here. From 1844 to 1848, his health did not permit him to engage in any kind of work. In the spring of 1852, he purchased the southeast quarter of section 2, and here has since been an agriculturalist and stock-grower. The forty acres which he entered in 1843, on section 14, he still holds, together with seven acres of coal land on section 16, eighty acres on the west half of section 2, and his residence in the village of Osceola. He belonged to the Union League (1861-65), has always been republican, but is content with going to the polls. In religion he is a Baptist.

Isaac Spencer, born in Vermont in 1812, came to Peoria in 1835, and to the northeast quarter, section 10, Elmira township, in 1838, and subsequently purchased more lands, all of which he improved, his steam flouring mill being one of the early industries of the county.

Sturms family.—Much has been written of this family in the sketches of Osceola and Toulon townships, as well as in that of this township. Again in the general history many references are made to them. For the purposes of this part of the chapter, the following notice of the family is given: Louis Sturms, who came to LaSalle Prairie, Ill., about the period the first settlement was made in Essex township, came to Spoon river about 1834; in 1835, visited what is now Elmira township, remained some time, but returned to Ohio. Matthias Sturms, who came in September, 1834, brought with him his wife and ten children, thus giving a population at once to this part of the wilderness. In the history of the Methodist Episcopal church throughout the county, many references are made to this pioneer, for in his cabin were held the first Methodist services north of what is now Wyoming, in this county. Among his sons were Henry S. (not Henry Sturms, who settled here in 1838), Nicholas, who was a juror in 1839, Samuel, Matthias and Simon. Of this number, there were assessed in 1839, Matthias, junior, Henry S., Samuel and Nicholas. Henry S. was married to Miss Osborne in Ohio, and brought his wife with him, as his sister, who married John Kirkpatrick, brought her husband with her in 1834. Another sister married the pioneer — Peter Pratt. Matthias Sturms died in February, 1862, aged seventy-six years; but prior to this time the old people had passed away. The records of the cemeteries all around Elmira and in the township contain the names of this family, even as the marriage record tells of the beginnings of other families of the same name.

John Turnbull, commonly known as "Uncle John," was born in Roxburghshire, Scotland, November 23, 1806. His parents, Robert and Ellen (Brydon) Turnbull, were also natives of Scotland, the former (a soldier under General Elliott) participated in the siege of Gibraltar, and, after his honorable discharge from the British army, married and engaged in farming in Scotland until his death in 1809. Uncle John, in his boyhood (aged 8 1/2years), served eight years as cowherd for Thomas Stavart, subsequently had charge of a flock of sheep, and in 1826 removed to Lochcanon, Rosshire, where he was shepherd for Adam Scott on the Tullich farm, serving for eleven years. During this time, on February 22, 1834, he married Margaret, daughter of Thomas and Margaret (Fife) Oliver. On June 14, 1837, he and wife sailed  from Greenwich for America, landed at Chicago, September 18t, moved in a few days to Joliet, and thence, in February, 1838, to Osceola Grove. Here he purchased a squatter's claim of 160 acres for twenty-five dollars (on section twenty-one) the same year; subsequently purchased it from the United States, and has made this his home ever since. He added 120 acres to his original purchase, and has followed farming and sheep-raising here since 1838. He takes pride in the fact that his first vote was cast for Henry Clay. "I lost  it," says he, "but he was a grand old man" - Uncle John has been justice of the peace for over thirty years, was supervisor for three terms, and school director for a number of years. He was one of the original members of the United Presbyterian church here, and one of its most earnest supporters since organization. Mr. and Mrs. Turnbull never had children, but by adoption reared a number of nephews and nieces, namely, Thomas Rule, married, living on the frontier; Will Rule, married, a resident of Iowa; Jane Rule, deceased, and Anna Rule, married, residing in Iowa. The two orphans, Mary and Matthew Phelan, were raised and educated by "Uncle John" and his wife; also, they reared H. H. Oliver and William B. Turnbull, giving parental care in each instance. Mr. T. is one of the most honored members of the Old Settlers' association, the annual meetings of which he attends. In political matters he is republican, versed in all public subjects,  and now, in his eighty-first year, a synonym for health and vigor.

John G. Turnbull was born in Dumphrieshire, Scotland, December 20, 1828. His parents, Robert and Margaret (Graham) Turnbull, resided in Roxburghshire so early as 1799, for there the eldest son, Thomas, now deceased, was born. Of their six children, all born in Scotland, John G., of this township, and Sophia, married, residing in Bureau county, survive. The family settled in Canada in 1837, moved to Joliet, Ill., in 1838, where Margaret Turnbull's mother and two brothers were attacked and carried off by some disease, and were buried there. During the following winter the survivors of this party moved to Elmira township, the father purchasing a farm on section twenty-two. Here there were five more children born to them, among whom are Robert, married, in Page county, Ia.; James, married, a citizen of Missouri; Adam, married, of Fremont county, Ia.; George, deceased. In politics Robert Turnbull, Sr., was democratic, in religion an Old School Presbyterian. He died in 1874, and later his wife, who for years shared all his disappointments and successes, followed him to the grave. John G., when of age, purchased 160 acres in Bureau county. In 1859 he married Miss Helen, daughter of Matthew and Catherine (Temple) Scott, natives of England and Scotland, respectively. Mrs. Scott was a daughter of Robert and Eliza (Elliot) Temple, natives of England, her father being a physician, who on graduating moved to Newcastleton, Scotland, where they died. Matthew Scott, her father, was a shoemaker of Roxburghshire, and resided there until his death. Mrs. J. G. Turnbull came to the United States with a cousin in 1858, and, as stated, was married in 1859. She is the mother of ten children, seven of whom are living, viz.: Thomas E., widower, residing here; Margaret J., married, residing in this township; Anna, Henry, Charlie, Cora, and Irvine, all residing at home. In 1860 Mr. Turnbull owned 240 acres in Bureau county, and from that year until 1873 made his home there. He purchased 702 acres additional in Elmira township, where the family took up their residence in 1873. He began life's battle as a farm laborer, now owns 942 acres of fertile lands, and one of the most elegant homes in the county. While his wife and some members of his family are members of the Presbyterian church, he is not a member of any society; but his moral and financial support is given freely to all Christian organizations. (Vide history of township.)

William H. Turnbull was born on the line of Roxburghshire and Northumberland, bordering on England, February, 1809; was married to Miss Mary Hume, of Roxburghshire, in 1837. He came to the United States in 1852, stopping in Oswego county, New York; in 1853 came to Henry county, Illinois, where he engaged in agricultural pursuits. In October, 1859, death claimed his beloved companion, from which time he made his home with his son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Oliver. On September 14, 1886, while the family were all quietly, resting in sleep, little dreaming of the destructive element consuming their dwelling, they were suddenly aroused by the crackling flames. Only by the greatest efforts of Mr. Oliver was his body rescued from the flames, but so badly burned that death resulted in twenty-four hours later. He was the father of seven children, two of whom died in early childhood—one in Oswego county, New York, and the other at Elmira. Four sons and one daughter survive him. Two sons are Presbyterian ministers, one now pastor of a thriving church in Detroit, Mich., and the other of one in Nova Scotia, Canada. One son lives in Pawnee City, Neb., and the other is in Chicago.

William Turnbull, born in Roxburghshire, Scotland, came to Stark County in 1850, died July 12, 1882.

Archibald Vandyke, son of Jacob and Alice (Craven) Vandyke, was born in Bucks County, Pa., January 10,1806. His brother Charles was also born in that county, April 12, 1814. The father, Jacob, was born in Pennsylvania, October 6, 1764, the mother was born in Pennsylvania, May 17, 1773, of which state her parents, William and Alice Craven, were residents, but natives of Holland. Jacob Vandyke was a stone-mason; Archibald, his son, learned the tailor's trade, and with his brother Charles, are the only representatives of a family of nine children. Archibald was married in March, 1835, to Martha, a daughter of Abram and Martha Slifer, both natives of Pennsylvania, but of German and Welsh descent. That year, with his brother, he engaged in mercantile business in Bucks County, Pa., but in 1836, he moved to Osceola Grove, located 160 acres, and farmed and worked at his trade here until the lands were placed on the market, when he entered his claim. Archibald and wife have no children of their own, but raised four, namely: Anne Sweet, deceased; Orsinus Sweet, Carlos Newman, deceased; and Emma Leonard, married and living in Minnesota. In 1874 he sold his lands at the Grove, moved to Kewanee, established a private boarding house, but on the death of his wife in 1877, sold his Kewanee interests, returned to Elmira, and resides with his brother. In politics he is Democratic, and for over fifty-four years has been an earnest member of the Baptist church. Charles Vandyke married Eleanor, his brother's wife's sister in April, 1836, and the same month came to Illinois with his brother. After a stay of a few months at the Grove he returned to Pennsylvania, where he left his newly-wedded wife in April, engaged in agriculture there until 1841, when he revisited Elmira, purchased eighty acres, to which, within a few years, he added 240, and cultivated this tract until 1875, when he sold the farm, and purchased sixty acres a point south, to which he has added 126 acres of choice land. Of their eight children five are living, namely: Abram, of Osceola Township; Theodore, single; Charles H, single; Alice, married, residing at Osceola, and James H., residing here. Charles Vandyke has always been a farmer. In politics he is Republican like his sons. Adeline Condelle has been with the family over forty-five years. Since 1845, Charles has been prominent in the public affairs of the township, and like his brother has always been a leading member of the old Baptist church. Socially, the family hold a high place, and are noted for their hospitality. They have in their possession a Welsh dictionary, a China bowl, center table and clothes chest, brought to America in 1738.

Charles and Ellen (Sliper) Vandyke settled at Spoon river in 1836, the same year of their marriage, when they erected their cabin, laid the puncheon floor, put in an old-fashioned fire-place, swung the crane, hung on the kettle and opened up in grand style, with one table, four chairs, one bake-kettle, one mush-pot, one bed, a rolling-pin, a hickory broom, two stout hearts and as many full grown appetites. The Vandykes' golden wedding took place April 21, 1886.

Hewes White, one of the pioneers, was the father of Wells White, born at Mansfield, Pa., June 7, 1836, came with his parents, Hewes and Anna (Williamson) White to Illinois in 1837 and settled at Osceola in 1838-9. Hewes White carried on blacksmithing there until 1847, when the family moved to Toulon. Here the father died in 1863 and the mother in 1876, leaving three sons and five daughters. Wells White carried on the wagon, carriage and blacksmith business which his father established at Toulon. He married a Miss Hill, of. Michigan, to whom a son and a daughter have been born. This son, Frank, is also the head of a family, his wife being Miss Mary, daughter of John Johnson, of Toulon.

 

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