History of DeWitt County Illinois: with biographical sketches of prominent representative citizens of the county.  Chicago: Pioneer Publishing Co., 1910

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

Submitted by Judy Simpson unless otherwise noted.

Biographies D - E - F

FRANK C. DAVIDSON.  (Volume II, Page 37)

The promptness and efficiency which Frank C. Davidson is displaying in the office of postmaster is winning him high commendation and the service of the office is proving entirely satisfactory to its patrons.  Well known in Clinton, his life history cannot fail to prove of interest to many of the readers of this volume.  He was born in Champaign county, Illinois, December 28, 1853, and is a son of Thomas A. and Elizabeth Jane (Sidner) Davidson, natives of Rockbridge county, Virginia, and of Ohio respectively.  The paternal grandfather was also a native of the Old Dominion and of Scotch descent.  He followed the occupation of farming as a life work and died near London, Madison county, Ohio, when well advanced in years.  He married Miss McCrea and to them were born six sons and two daughters, William, Wilson, Thomas A., Samuel, Matthew, John, Lucy and Sallie.  The maternal grandfather of Frank C. Davidson was Samuel Sidner, who removed from Pennsylvania to Madison county, Ohio, where he carried on general agricultural pursuits.  He was of German descent.  He married Miss Ewing and their last days were passed in the Buckeye state, Mrs. Sidner departing this life in young womanhood, while Mr. Sidner died in 1880 when almost ninety years of age.  Their four children were Samuel, Elizabeth Jane, Philip and Barbara.

Thomas A. Davidson was a lad of about nine years when, in 1818, he accompanied his parents on their removal from Virginia to Ohio.  He became a resident of Illinois in 1853, settling in Champaign county, where he devoted his life to the tilling of the soil, becoming one of the representative farmers of the community.  He died in 1880 at the age of seventy-one years, while his wife, long surviving him, spent her last days in Mahomet, Champaign county, where her death occurred in April, 1908, when she was eighty-four years of age.  They were consistent Christian people, holding membership in the Methodist church.  In their family were the following: John; Ida, the deceased wife of Julius D. Brown; Mary A., the widow of Thomas A. Scott, of Champaign county; James W., Jerome T. and George W., all of Champaign; Frank C., of this review; and Kate S., the wife of Milt Ducker, of Peoria.

Frank C. Davidson was reared upon a farm in Champaign county, Illinois, where he remained until seventeen years of age, during which period he attended the district schools.  He then began learning telegraphy in the employ of railroad companies, and afterward occupied a position in a bank in London, Ohio, and in Urbana, Illinois, three years being passed in that way.  He dates his residence in Clinton from 1878, in which year he engaged in the tile business in this city.  He devoted eight years to that industry and in 1886 established a real-estate office which he conducted until 1897, when he was appointed postmaster, in which capacity he has since served.  He is proving a worthy incumbent in the office and, carefully systematizing all of the work in connection therewith and discharging his duties with promptness and fidelity, he has made a most creditable record during the thirteen years of his service.

On the 29th of September, 1881, Mr. Davidson was married to Miss Adda Jane Kegarice, who was born in Clinton, Illinois, while her parents, James J. and Melissa (Phares) Kegarice, were natives of Ohio, becoming early settlers of this county.  The father was a soldier of the Civil war.  Unto him and his wife were born five daughters: Kittie, the wife of A. L. Tweed, of St. Joseph, Missouri; Ella, who married William A. Dawson, of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania; Nettie, who became the wife of Link Kelley and now lives in Eaton Colorado; Adda J., now Mrs. Davidson; and Winifred, the wife of A. A. Newman, of Breckenridge, Missouri.  Unto Mr. and Mrs. Davidson was born a daughter, Helen S., on the 29th of February, 1884.  The wife and mother died November 1, 1886, at the age of twenty-five years.  She was a member of the Presbyterian church and a lady of many good qualities, highly esteemed by all who know her.

Mr. Davidson belongs to the Knights of Pythias Lodge, the Modern Woodmen Camp and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks.  His political endorsement is given to the republican party, of which he has ever been a stalwart champion since age conferred upon him the right of franchise.  During his residence in Clinton, covering thirty-two years, he has enjoyed the high regard and unqualified friendship of many who recognize in him sterling traits of manhood and of citizenship.  His business career has ever been characterized by reliability and he is ever loyal and faithful to the trust reposed in him, whether in the relations of public or of private life.

Submitted by Mike Malerich

DANIEL ROBERT DAVIS.  (Volume II, Page 402)

One of the men who has made stock-raising an especial study in an effort to not only secure a good living from the cultivation of the soil but to improve instead of deplete it while so doing, is Daniel R. Davis, who is engaged in farming and stock-raising on a two hundred and fifty acre tract on section 29, Nixon township.  For the past nineteen years he has been engaged in these callings in this county, and in that time has come to be recognized as one of the ablest of the many fine agriculturists and stockmen of the community.

Mr. Davis is a native of Illinois, born February 12, 1848, in Scott county, where his parents, Nathaniel and Mary (Thomas) Davis, had settled early in the history of the state.  Both his parents were natives of Kentucky.  Nathaniel Davis died when Daniel was but five years old, while the mother died in 1877.  Of the seven children born to them, but three are now living: John T., of California; Mary, widow of Frank Cox of Illinois; and Daniel R., of this review.

Shortly after the death of his father, the family removed to Macon county, where the subject of this review received his early education.  He remained with his mother until he was twenty-one years old, when he began working for himself.  He worked upon various farms and in the course of his labors lived in several counties adjoining that of his birth.  In December, 1881, he was united in marriage to Miss Melissa Gillett, a daughter of Joshua and Jane (Burnett) Gillett.  Mrs. Davis was born in Missouri, December 14, 1859.  Her father was born in Kentucky and died during the Civil war, while her mother was a native of Indiana and died in 1883.  Besides her father, who served throughout the Civil war until his death, Mrs. Davis had a paternal uncle, who enlisted from Illinois and who served the entire five years of the conflict.  Of the eleven children born to Mr. and Mrs. Gillett but seven are now living: Alexander, of Kansas; Maggie, wife of a Mr. Mansel, of St. Louis, Missouri; Andrew, of Kansas; Christopher, of Decatur, Illinois; Elizabeth, wife of George Baker of Decatur; Marion, of Decatur; and Mrs. Davis.

Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Davis.  Ora, born May 21, 1882, in Macon county, is now the wife of Larry Roetzell of Nixon township, and has one child, Loren; Oscar, born in Macon county, January 1, 1884, married Effie Olson and they live north of Clinton; Effie, born in Macon county, April 16, 1886, is the wife of Charles Putter and lives in Clinton; Roy, born December 9, 1889, and Earl, born March 2, 1891, both came into this world in Macon, county, while Hugh and Alma, born March 25, 1893, and February 7, 1899, respectively, were born in De Witt county on the Nixon township farm.

Although allied with the democracy, yet Mr. Davis has steadfastly refused to accept any office, maintaining that his, duties lay at his home.  With his wife, who is a member of the United Presbyterian church of Shiloh, he leads a happy, contented life, developing his farm and attending to his stock.  Fraternally he is connected with the Masons and the Modern Woodmen of America and his honorable and upright dealings with his fellowmen show him to be a worthy member of the orders to which he belongs.  Industrious, honest and well respected, and withal of a generous and jolly disposition, he is recognized and respected as a representative citizen of the county.

Submitted by Mike Malerich

JOHN B. DAVIS.  (Volume II, Page 362)

Although more than twenty years have passed since John B. Davis was called from this life, he is still remembered by many of the citizens of DeWitt county as a man of sterling qualities and as a worthy representative of agricultural interests in this section of the state.  Born in Chandlersville, Cass county, Illinois, February 10, 1852, his parents were Jeremiah and Cassandra Elizabeth (Gum) Davis.  The father was a farmer by occupation, as was also the paternal grandfather, and Jeremiah Davis owned at the time of his death more than one thousand acres of land in Illinois.  His family numbered five sons and four daughters, of whom John B. was the eighth in order of birth.

John B. Davis acquired his education in the public schools of Chandlersville, near which city he was reared to the occupation of farming.  After reaching years of maturity he came to DeWitt county and followed farming in Waynesville township, where he owned a productive tract of two hundred and twenty-five acres.  He here engaged in general farming and stock-raising, shipping extensively to the city markets.  While in Peoria, Illinois, in 1888, he fell from a three-story building, which resulted in his death, and his untimely and sudden demise was mourned by his many friends as well as the members of his own household, for he was only thirty-six years of age.

In 1871 occurred the marriage of Mr. Davis and Miss Emily E. Dick, a daughter of John P. and Eunice (Lonsberry) Dick, natives of Kentucky and Wisconsin respectively.  Mr. Dick was married three times and by the first union there were two daughters and one son, by the second marriage two sons and one daughter and by the third marriage three daughters and two sons, Mrs. Davis being born of the father’s second marriage.  Unto Mr. and Mrs. Davis were born five daughters and two sons.  Ida May, born August 29, 1873, was married December 23, 1892, to Charles Yates, of McLean county, Illinois, and they now make their home in Waynesville.  They have two sons.  Etta, the second member of the Davis family, was born July 10, 1875, and was married on the 13th of August, 1894, to Fred Lee of Waynesville, by whom she had a son.  She was married a second time, May 16, 1904, to Jesse F. Moffitt, of Oklahoma, by whom she has a son and daughter.  In 1908 they removed to Castle Dale, Utah, where Mr. Moffitt is editor and proprietor of the Emery County Progress, a weekly journal.  Anna M., born February 17, 1877, was married March 13, 1895, to Lee Maxwell and their home is in Waynesville.  They have two sons.  Bertha E., whose birth occurred June 5, 1879, became the wife of Walter Huffman on the 13th of August, 1897.  They have had five sons and two daughters but the eldest child died in infancy.  They make their home in Barnett township. Cora E., the fifth member of the Davis family, was born December 17, 1882.  She is the wife of Fred Tatman, formerly of Bloomington but now a resident of Decatur, Illinois.  They have a son and daughter.  Orla, born February 15, 1885, is at home.  Carl, born January 22, 1887, was married October 1, 1907, and has one daughter.  He now resides on the homestead in Waynesville township.

Following the death of Mr. Davis, his widow remained on the home farm until 1898 and on the 7th of September of that year removed to Bloomington, Illinois, in order that her children might enjoy the advantages of the city schools.  In March, 1904, she removed to Hooker, Texas county, Oklahoma, and it was during her residence in that state that her daughter Etta met and married Mr. Moffitt.  Mrs. Davis remained in Oklahoma but a short time and then she returned to her old home in DeWitt county, having maintained her residence in Waynesville to the present time.  She still owns one hundred and forty acres of land in Waynesville township and from this derives a good rental.

In 1894 she united with the Christian church at Waynesville and since that time has been one of its most active workers.  In 1907 she was president of the Christian Reapers, an organization of the church, and during the year was instrumental in adding to the treasury one hundred and seventy dollars.  In 1908 she served as secretary of the organization, while at the present time she is acting as president of the Missionary Society.  The family is one of prominence in DeWitt county, Mrs. Davis and her children enjoying the warm esteem and friendship of those with whom they are associated.  Mr. Davis was a democrat in his political views.  While not accepting some of the dogmas of religious bodies and uniting with no church, he was nevertheless a most honorable and upright man, supporting all worthy charitable movements, and it may be well said of him that he was a true friend.

See his obituary.

WILLIAM H. DAWSON.  (Volume II, Page 257)

William H. Dawson is one of the worthy citizens that England has furnished to DeWitt county and he is today a leading farmer and stock-raiser of DeWitt township, owning and operating a farm on section 34.  He was born in Boston, Lincolnshire, October 24, 1865, and is a son of George and Elizabeth (Lawson) Dawson.  Amid rural surroundings he grew to manhood upon a farm and was given fair educational advantages.  It was at the age of nineteen that he crossed the Atlantic, being nine days upon the water, and landed at Quebec.  For about two and a half years he made his home at Oshawa, Canada, working on a farm for eighteen dollars per month.  At the end of that time he came to Illinois.  Having an acquaintance, Thomas West, living in DeWitt county, he settled here and continued to work by the month for two years, receiving twenty dollars a month.  For the following two years he rented land of Jacob Swigart and engaged in its operation.

On the 11th of February, 1892, Mr. Dawson was united in marriage to Miss Kate Baker, a native of DeWitt township and a daughter of Samuel and Sarah (Hardesty) Baker, and they have become the parents of five children, namely: Elsie Belle, born October 24, 1892; Grace May, April 20, 1894; Ida Ethel, July 8, 1896; Ralph Henry, September 26, 1898; and Samuel Ray, March 5, 1901.

Mr. and Mrs. Dawson began their domestic life upon a farm belonging to her father, which Mr. Dawson rented and he subsequently bought eighty acres of Mrs. Mayall, paying one hundred and seventy dollars per acre.  In connection with the operation of his own land he also cultivates an eighty-acre tract belonging to his father-in-law and is today successfully engaged in general farming and in the raising and feeding of stock.  Since becoming a naturalized citizen he has voted with the republican party and has served as road commissioner for six years, during which time the contract for the Fullerton bridge was let at four thousand dollars, there being a severe fight to save twenty-five hundred dollars to the taxpayers.  He has filled the office of school director and although born across the water is today one of America’s most loyal citizens.  In his fraternal relations he is connected with the Royal American at Weldon and both he and his wife hold membership in the Methodist Protestant church at that place.

ORVILLE A. DAY.  (Volume II, Page 353)

Dependent upon his own resources from the age of thirteen years, O. A. Day deserves much credit for the position which he has attained in the business and political circles of Clinton.  He has worked his way steadily upward through the intervening years, each step in his orderly progression bringing him nearer the goal of success, until today he is the owner of a growing and prosperous enterprise known as the Cash Tea Store.  One of Illinois ’ native sons, he was born in DeWitt county, near Weldon, on the 30th of May, 1873.  His mother, Mrs. Nannie Day, was again married, her second husband being Newton Merrill.  By this marriage she became the mother of two children: Emery, deceased; and Joseph, residing in PeoriaIllinois.

Reared under the direction of his mother, Orville A. Day remained on the farm upon which he was born until nine years of age, and in the meantime he had begun his education in the country schools near his home.  The next four years were passed in Weldon, where he attended the public schools to the age of thirteen, when he put aside his text-books to take up the task of providing for his own support.  He worked by the month as a farm hand for various farmers throughout the locality, at first receiving six dollars and a half per month for his labors, and he continued in that capacity until 1900, when he came to Clinton and for a few months was employed by the city to work on the streets.  He then took charge of the oil house for the Illinois Central Railroad Company, filling that position for eight months, after which he was transferred as bookkeeper under the car foreman at the shops, receiving an increase in salary.  He thus served until the 31st of July, 1903, when he was again transferred to the yard service as switchman, with an increase of salary from fifty to one hundred dollars, a fact which indicated his increasing worth and value to his employers.  On the 26th of May, 1905, he received an injury which for some time kept him from active labor.  Further promotion had place him in the position of engine foreman, and while discharging his duties in that connection he was run over by a switch engine, the accident causing him the loss of his right leg.  For five months he lay in a hospital in Clinton, was in the Clinton Infirmary for four months and then spent one month in St. Luke’s Hospital at Chicago.  During this time his life was despaired of, but a rugged constitution, gained by many years of hard work in the open fields, came to his assistance and pulled him through the crisis.  After returning home he spent about six months in recuperating and then he opened a cigar store which he conducted for one year.  In the spring of 1906 he was elected tax collector, taking up the duties of the office on the 1st of January, 1907, at which time he sold his store in order that he might devote his entire attention to his official duties.  After retiring from that office he accepted a position as accountant in the master mechanic’s office of the Illinois Central Railroad Company, thus serving until January 1, 1909, when he entered the employ of the Prudential Insurance Company.  In February, 1910, he again entered business on his own account, becoming the proprietor of a store under the name of the Cash Tea Store, and in connection therewith he not only carries a complete line of teas and coffees, but also handles groceries and cigars, and although the undertaking is one of the more recently established enterprises of the city, he has already been accorded a liberal patronage which is constantly increasing in volume and importance.

Although his business demands much time and attention, Mr. Day never permits his personal interests to interfere with his performance of duty as city treasurer, to which office he was elected in April, 1909, but has ever proved himself a competent and capable official, whose services receive the endorsement and approval of all concerned.  A stalwart supporter of the republican party, he has ever labored to further its influence in the community, without allowing party affiliation to bias him in the discharge of official duties.  Recognizing his ability and appreciating his true worth, his fellow citizens have called him to positions of trust and responsibility, and he in turn has proven himself worthy of their confidence and the honor bestowed upon him.

It was on the 29th of May, 1898, that Mr. Day was united in marriage to Miss Lena Henson, a daughter of Thomas J. and Mary Jane (Bennett) Henson and a native of ClintonIllinois.  Her parents, who were also born in this county, are now deceased, the father’s death occurring in February, 1908, when he was sixty-four years of age, while the mother passed away in March, 1904, at the age of fifty-nine years.  The former had served as a private in the Civil War, bravely fighting for the defense of the Union .  Unto Mr. and Mrs. Day were born two children, Jewell Cletta and Marguerite Allena, but the elder passed away when only two years of age.  Marguerite Allena is with her parents in their home at 416 North Monroe street , where Mr. Day owns an attractive residence.  They are members of the Christian church, and their lives have ever been guided by its teachings.  Crossing the threshold of the business world at a time when other lads are yet engaged with their text-books, with no capital except brains, energy, integrity and rugged health, Mr. Day has, throughout the intervening years, worked his way steadily upward until today he may be justly called a self-made man in the broadest sense of the term.

CLIFFORD DOAK.  (Volume II, Page 357)

Clifford Doak, who is now successfully engaged in the cultivation of three hundred and twenty acres of land on section 28, Creek township, was born in McLean county, Illinois, on the 17th of December, 1883, his parents being W. R. and Mary (Winklepleck) Doak, of whom more extended mention is made in the sketch of Robert Doak on another page of this volume.  His early life was passed in DeWitt and McLean counties, where he pursued his education in the public schools and when not busy with his text-books assisted his father in the operation of the home farm until he attained his majority.  He then commenced farming on his own account upon rented land in Dewitt county and after his marriage spent two years in Macon county, but at the end of that time returned to the farm where he is now renting a tract of three hundred and twenty acres on section 28, Creek township, belonging to Mrs. Lillard.  He follows general farming and stock-raising and like his brothers, Robert and Thomas, who are identified with him in business, he is meeting with most excellent success in his undertaking.

On the 24th of December, 1905, Mr. Doak married Miss Cecil Ferguson, also a native of McLean county, born November 23, 1886, and a daughter of David and Ida (Andrew) Ferguson.  Her father, whose birth occurred in Macon county, Illinois, in 1860, is now a resident of DeWitt county, but the mother died in 1902 [Feb. 7, 1904] and was laid to rest here.  Mrs. Doak is the eldest of their four children, the others being: Albert, Cuba and Myrl, all at home with their father.  Mr. and Mrs. Doak have two children, both born in Macon county: William David, and Irene.  Since attaining his majority Mr. Doak has been a stanch supporter of the men and measures of the democratic party and has always taken a deep and commendable interest in public affairs, although he has never cared for official preferment.

ROBERT DOAK.  (Volume II, Page 361)

Robert Doak, one of the representative farmers of Creek township, living on section 19, has made his home continuously in this part of the state, his birth occurring in McLean county on the 1st of August, 1876.  His parents, W. R. and Mary (Winklepleck) Doak, were both natives of Ohio, the former born March 30, 1840, and the latter October 23, 1838.  The mother died on the 29th of May, 1910, and was buried in Maroa cemetery, but the father is still living and now makes his home in Macon county.  They were the parents of eight children, of whom six are still living, namely: Anna, now the wife of Richard Short, a resident of Wapella, Illinois; Robert, of this review; Thomas and Clifford, also residents of Creek township; Jessie and Grace, both at home with their father; Stella, the fourth in order of birth, became the wife of Charles Roben and died in 1907, being buried in Clinton.

In the county of his nativity Robert Doak was reared and educated and after leaving school devoted his entire time and attention to the cultivation of the home farm until after he had attained his majority.  He was married on the 27th of December, 1898, to Miss Anna Crystal, who was born in Creek township, this county, June 3, 1882, a daughter of Owen and Alice (Reed) Crystal.  Her father was a native of New York, born April 15, 1838, but the birth of her mother occurred in Creek township on the 6th of August, 1860.  They are still residents of DeWitt county, their home being in Texas township.  Their children are: Anna, now Mrs. Doak; Amy, the wife of Edward Hardy of Texas township; Edna, May, Miles, Mary, William and Ruth, all at home.  Unto Mr. and Mrs. Doak were born three children: Raymond R., born March 2, 1900; Bessie A., born May 19, 1901; Thomas William, who was born September 2, 1903, and died May 18, 1904, being buried in Maroa cemetery.  Mrs. Doak’s maternal grandfather was a soldier of the Civil war, belonging to an Illinois regiment.

Mr. and Mrs. Doak began their domestic life upon a farm in Creek township and now, in partnership with his brothers, Clifford and Thomas, he is engaged in operating nine hundred acres of land belonging to Mrs. Lillard, a part of which lies in Creek township, while the remainder is in Macon county.  They are very energetic, progressive young farmers and are meeting with marked success in the cultivation of this property for they thoroughly understand the occupation which they are following.  They are progressive and up-to-date in their methods and in connection with general farming have devoted considerable attention to the raising of stock.

By his ballot Robert Doak supports the men and measures of the democratic party, but he has never been an office seeker, preferring to devote his entire time and attention to his business interests.  Fraternally he is an honored member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.

THOMAS DOAK.  (Volume II, Page 365)

One of the most progressive farmers and reliable citizens of Creek township is Thomas Doak, whose home is now on section 30.  He was born in McLean county, Illinois, March 16, 1879, and is a son of W. R. and Mary (Winklepleck) Doak, whose sketch is given in connection with that of Robert Doak elsewhere in this volume.  During his boyhood he pursued his studies in the common schools of McLean county and continued with his parents until twenty-five years of age, giving his father the benefit of his services.  He then formed a partnership with his brother Robert, which connection lasted for three years, and together they operated a farm in this county.  After his marriage he continued to engage in agricultural pursuits here and is now in partnership with his brothers Robert and Clifford, operating together about nine hundred and sixty acres of land.  In connection with general farming they give considerable attention to the raising of stock and are meeting with more than ordinary success in their labors.

On the 18th of December, 1906, Mr. Doak was united in marriage to Miss Mary Lee who was born in Jefferson county, Illinois, in 1885, her parents being Riley and Anthy (Bodine) Lee, who are still living, the former being about fifty-six years of age and the latter fifty-four.  Mr. Lee is also a native of Jefferson county, but his wife was born in North Carolina.  They have five children: Mary, now Mrs. Doak; Elizabeth, the wife of Robert Quinn of Jefferson county; Minnie, Charles and Ernest, at home.  Unto our subject and his wife one child has been born, Orville Elsworth, whose birth occurred September 25, 1907.

The democratic party finds in Mr. Doak a stanch supporter of its principles and he never withholds his support from any enterprise which he believes will prove of public benefit.  He is a progressive and up-to-date farmer and like his brothers, is held in high esteem by all who know him.

GEORGE S. EDMONSON.  (Volume II, Page 88)

Dr. George S. Edmonson, who has marked ability in professional lines, has for some time engaged in the practice of medicine and surgery in Clinton, where he is now accorded a liberal patronage, attesting the confidence reposed in him by the general public.  Illinois numbers him among her native sons, his birth having occurred in Winchester, November 19, 1871.  He is, however, a descendent of an old Virginia family.  His grandfather, James Edmonson, was a native of Virginia, where he was reared to the occupation of farming.  In an early day he removed westward to Kentucky and became one of the large slaveholders of that state.  His death occurred in Winchester, Kentucky, when he had reached an advanced age, and his wife, Mrs. Polly (Boone) Edmonson, has also passed away.  The ancestry of the family can be traced back in Scotland to the year 1610, when Robert Edmistoune flourished in that country.  The children of James Edmonson were Robert E., William, Nathan, John, Milton B., Hallie, Ann, Susan and Mary.

Milton B. Edmonson, a native of Kentucky, chose farming as his life work when he approached early manhood.  He removed from Winchester, Kentucky, to Winchester, Illinois, about 1870 and still resides there, conducting a livery business in connection with his farming.  He married Miss Isabel Smithson, who was born in this state and was a daughter of William D. Smithson.  A native of Tennessee, he became one of the early settlers of Illinois, casting in his lot with the pioneer residents of this section of the state.  He was well known among the pioneers of Clinton, although he established his home in Winchester, in the vicinity of which town he owned several thousand acres of land.  He married Patsy Nivens, and both lived to a ripe old age.  They had a large family, including George, Thomas B., John M., William, Eveline and Isabel.  The last named became the wife of Milton B. Edmonson and died in 1905, at the age of fifty years.  She was a consistent member of the Missionary Baptist church, to which her husband still belongs and of which their children are also members.  They became the parents of four sons and four daughters, as follows: George S., of this review; Minnie, the wife of Claude Thomas, living near Winchester, Illinois; Oscar B., who is engaged in the practice of medicine in partnership with his brother at Clinton, and who is mentioned on another page of this work; Carrie, the wife of W. B. Clark, of Winchester; James W., who is engaged in the livery business with his father in that city; Fannie; Otis M., who is a clerk in the employ of the Kansas City, Mexico & Orient Railroad at Wichita, Kansas; and Elsie, at home.

In the schools of Winchester Dr. George S. Edmonson pursued his studies and after leaving the high school entered the Normal College at Abingdon, Illinois.  He began preparation for a professional career as a student in the medical department of the University of Illinois at Chicago and was graduated therefrom in 1896.  He then located for practice in Maroa, Illinois, where he remained for four years, and on the 9th of May, 1900, arrived in Clinton, where he has since lived, building up an extensive and gratifying patronage here.  His brother, Oscar B., has been associated with him for the past two years and in August, 1908, they established a sanitarium, which is splendidly equipped with all the appliances necessary in the modern practice of medicine and surgery.  The sanitarium is well patronized and aside from this the brothers have a large private practice.  Dr. George S. Edmonson is also district surgeon for the Illinois Central Railroad Company and local surgeon for the Illinois Traction System and is president of the Clinton Creamery Company.

In October, 1899, occurred the marriage of Dr. Edmonson and Miss Agnes L. Compton, of Maroa, a daughter of Warner J. and Allie (Conover) Compton.  One son was born unto them, Kenneth C, who on the 20th of November, 1903, lost his mother, Mrs. Edmonson being only thirty years of age at the time of her death.  Her parents were natives of Ohio and early settlers of Maroa, Illinois, but are now living at Katy, Texas.  On the 8th of January, 1905, Dr. Edmonson was again married, his second onion being with Miss Della B. Jones, a daughter of J. K. and Jennie (Barrow) Jones.  Mrs. Edmonson was born in Gibson City, Illinois, where her parents took up their abode in pioneer times.  They were natives, however, of Virginia and are now living in Winnipeg, Canada.  They had four daughters and three sons: Della B., now Mrs. Edmonson; Fred B.; Floy; Raymond; Earl; Hazel; and Helen.

Dr. Edmonson is a member of the Christian church, while his wife belongs to the Methodist church.  He also holds membership with Winchester Lodge, No. 105, A. F. & A. M., Goodbrake Chapter, No. 59, R. A. M., the Knights of Pythias, the Odd Fellows, the Elks, Eagles and Red Men.  In strictly professional lines he is connected with the County and State Medical Societies, the American Medical Association, the Brainard District Medical Society and the American Association of Railway Surgeons.  His political endorsement has long been given to the republican party and he is now serving for the second term as mayor of Clinton, his reelection coming to him as an endorsement of his first term, which was a businesslike, and progressive administration, characterized by many substantial reforms and improvements.  The family residence is at No. 311 North Center street, where he erected a good home in 1904.  He holds to high standards in professional service and is an extremely successful practitioner, his high professional attainments and his sterling characteristics testifying to the respect and confidence in which he is held by the medical fraternity and the local public.  His eminent qualifications for responsible official duties were recognized on the part of the public when he was elected to the office of Clinton’s chief executive, and while prominent in his profession he has also won high encomiums from his fellowmen by reason of the fidelity and ability which he has manifested in the discharge of his duties as mayor.

OSCAR B. EDMONSON.  (Volume II, Page 52)

With thorough preparatory training, Dr. Oscar Boone Edmonson came to Clinton to enter upon the practice of medicine and surgery, here joining his brother, Dr. George S. Edmonson, in November, 1907, since which time the firm has maintained a leading position among the representatives of the medical fraternity in this city.  His birth occurred upon a farm near Winchester, Scott county, Illinois, February 23, 1876, his parents being Milton B. and Isabel (Smithson) Edmonson, of whom extended mention is made elsewhere in this volume.

Dr. Edmonson spent his youthful days upon the home farm and his experiences were those which usually fall to the lot of the farm lad as he assists in the tasks of plowing, planting and harvesting.  He was a pupil in the district schools in his boyhood days and afterward engaged in teaching for several years.  He then entered the Northern Illinois Normal School at Dixon, Illinois, and was graduated therefrom on the 16th of August, 1900.  He afterward continued teaching for a year and in the spring of 1901 came to Clinton where he spent the summer.  In the autumn he went to Kankakee and accepted a position in the pathological laboratories of the Eastern Illinois Hospital for the Insane.  In 1907 he was graduated from the medical department of the University of Illinois at Chicago and received the appointment of intern in Grace Hospital of that city, where he remained for a year, the broad experience of hospital practice well qualifying him for professional duties upon which he entered after coming to Clinton.  In this city he joined his brother, Dr. George S. Edmonson, in a partnership that has since been maintained, and in the fall of 1908 they established a sanitarium which is thoroughly equipped in accordance with the most modern and progressive ideas regarding the practice of medicine and surgery.  This institution has been liberally patronized and at the same time the brothers have enjoyed an extensive and gratifying private practice.  They keep in touch with the advancement of the profession through membership in the County and State Medical Association, the American Medical Association and the Brainard District Medical Society.  Dr. Oscar B. Edmonson is also assistant district surgeon for the Illinois Central Railroad Company and alternate surgeon for the Illinois Traction System.

On the 29th of September, 1909, was celebrated the marriage of Dr. Edmonson and Miss Lena Bailor, who was born in this county and is a daughter of Isaac N. and Orilla (Lemen) Bailor.  Her mother was also born in this county, while her father’s birth occurred near Lancaster, in Fairfield county, Ohio.  The Lemen family were early settlers of DeWitt county, casting in their lot here in pioneer times.  Both Mr. and Mrs. Bailor are now residents of Clinton where he is engaged in the Hardware business.  Mrs. Edmonson is their only child.

The Doctor and his wife hold membership in the Methodist church and he also belongs to the Odd Fellows society, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and Fraternal Order of Eagles.  His political allegiance is given to the republican party but he has neither time nor inclination for public office, preferring to concentrate his energies upon his professional duties which are constantly growing in volume and importance.  He resides at No. 513 North Center street and the hospitality of the best homes of Clinton is freely extended to Dr. and Mrs. Edmonson, whose friends are many.

HENRY H. EDMUNDS.  (Volume II, Page 156)

Professor Henry H. Edmunds, city superintendent of schools of Clinton, was born in Gardner, Illinois, April 28, 1868.  He is descended from English ancestry.  The founder of the family in America was James I. Edmunds, who came from England prior to 1676 and took part in King Philip’s war and was otherwise associated with prominent events in the early colonial history.  He located in Massachusetts, and his son James removed to Rhode Island, establishing his home two miles from Providence.  In a later generation the family was represented in New York, where Henry J. Edmunds, the grandfather of Professor Edmunds, was born and reared.  Removing to the west, he settled in Grundy county, Illinois, at a very early day and became a contractor and builder of Gardner, where he died at an old age.  His wife, who bore the maiden name of Lucy Ann Arnold, was more than eighty years of age at the time of her demise.  They were the parents of five children, Arnold, Justin, James, William and Amanda.

Of this family Arnold Edmunds, the father of Professor Edmunds, was born in the Empire state and in early manhood devoted his attention to school teaching.  Subsequently, however, he engaged in contracting and building and on removing westward to Illinois about 1869 settled at Pilot in Kankakee county.  Soon afterward, however, he established his home in Gardner, where he lived until 1889, when he removed to Normal in order to educate his children.  He afterward went to Los Angeles, where he retired from active business, and both he and his wife are residing at that city.  In early manhood he wedded Julia Clague, also a native of New York and a daughter of Hugh Clague, a Manx man, who died when a young man soon after his marriage.  He was engaged in the shoe business in Rochester, New York, where his death occurred.  His wife, who bore the maiden name of Mary Corris, was also a native of the Isle of Man and lived to be seventy-six years of age.  They were the parents of three children, William, Julia and Mary.  Both Mr. and Mrs. Edmunds are members of the Baptist church.  While living in Gardner Mr. Edmunds was president of the town board for many years and was a member of the school board for about fifteen years, taking active and helpful part in advancing the progress and upbuilding of the community along municipal, intellectual, material and moral lines.  In his family were four sons and two daughters: Professor Henry H. Edmunds; Kate, the wife of S. A. Friedman, of Maroa, Illinois; William of Los Angeles, California; Olin, deceased; Elma, the wife of H. E. Vickroy, of Hollywood, California; and Leslie, of Los Angeles.

Professor Edmunds was reared in Gardner, Illinois, and following his graduation from the high school of that place in 1885 he taught in rural schools and in the fall of 1889 he entered the Illinois State Normal University, from which he was graduated with the class of 1895.  Later, however, he devoted nearly two years to study in the University of Chicago and the University of Illinois.  He holds a life certificate for the state.  In September, 1893, he became superintendent of schools at Lovington, Illinois, was afterward called to the superintendency of the schools at Atlanta, later served at Rushville and in 1907 came to Clinton, since which time he has been superintendent of the city schools of this place.  For the past two years he has been instructor of mathematics at the summer sessions of the Illinois State Normal University, and for fifteen years or more he has been a teacher in various county institutes held in Illinois.

On the I4th of June, 1900, Mr. Edmunds was united in marriage to Miss Emma F. Washburn, of Bloomington, Illinois, a daughter of Andrew and Cordelia (Loomis) Washburn.  Mrs. Edmunds was born September 12, 1875, in Danvers, McLean county, Illinois, and was graduated from the Illinois State Normal University with the class of 1897.  For a time she was a teacher in the high school of Atlanta, Illinois.  She is a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, her membership being in DeWitt Clinton Chapter, of Clinton.

Mrs. Edmunds traces her ancestry back to Ezra Washburn, Jr., who was born in Middleboro, Massachusetts, in 1745 and was married in the fall of 1767 to Lucy Fuller of that town.  They removed with his father’s family to Oakum, Massachusetts, from which Ezra Washburn, Jr., enlisted for service in the Revolutionary war.  The records of Oakum show that he and his two brothers William and Libeers Washburn enlisted from there.  Ezra Washburn, Jr., died April 16, 1793. His son Andrew Washburn was born May 31, 1784, and was married November 26, 1807, in Hampton, Connecticut, to Lucy Spencer.  Their son Philo Washburn was born in Hampton, October 15, 1811, and married Olivia Lombard, of Lebanon, Connecticut.  Andrew Washburn, the son of Philo and Olivia (Lombard) Washburn and the father of Mrs. Edmunds, was born in Connecticut in March, 1838, and while living in that state enlisted for service in the Civil war.  Following the close of hostilities he came to Illinois and located at Danvers, while subsequently he removed to Bloomington, where with his sons he conducts an extensive business as a florist.  His first wife, who bore the maiden name of Cordelia Loomis and was also a native of Connecticut, died about 1880, leaving four children who grew to maturity: Frank, George, Edwin and Emma F., now Mrs. Edmunds.  For his second wife Mr. Washburn chose Miss Julia Stewart, and unto them were born two children, Edna and Lucy.

The marriage of Professor and Mrs. Edmunds has been blessed with two sons, Arthur W., born at Rushville, Illinois, September 21, 1902; and Richard Henry, born at Clinton, Illinois, December 18, 1907.  Professor Edmunds is a member of the Baptist church, while his wife belongs to the Presbyterian church, and they are prominent in the social circles of the city, where true worth and intelligence are received as passports into good society.  Professor Edmunds belongs to DeWitt Lodge, No. 84, A. F. & A. M,; Goodbrake Chapter, No. 59, R. A. M.; and both he and his wife are members of the Eastern Star.  His political allegiance is given to the republican party, but the honors and emoluments of office have never had attraction for him.  He has preferred to concentrate his energies upon his profession and in all of his work has striven to reach a high standard of excellence.  His labors on the whole have given entire satisfaction in the communities where he has served and he is today regarded as one of the prominent representatives of public education in Illinois.

THOMAS J. EDWARDS.  (Volume II, Page 364)

Among the substantial men of the county is T. J. Edwards, owner and manager of a good farm of one hundred and twenty acres on section 20, Nixon township.  Ashland county, Ohio, was the place of his birth and he first saw the light of day April 22, 1862.  He is the second son of Samuel and Catherine (Berg) Edwards, who were the parents of seven children of whom five are yet living, the others being: William, of Creek township; George, of Storm Lake, Iowa; Archer, of Iowa; and Louis, of Nixon township.  The father was born in Ohio, August 8, 1834, and passed away in Illinois, where also was buried his wife, who was born in Germany in 1832 and who died in Dewitt county in 1903.

T. J. Edwards worked upon the home farm in Nixon township until he attained his majority.  He received his education in the township schools, working, meanwhile, upon the farm and receiving valuable instruction in agriculture.  On August 6, 1884, he was united in wedlock to Miss Mattie Smallwood, a daughter of Gideon P. and Sally (Cross) Smallwood.  Mrs. Edwards was born in Lane, Illinois, November 14, 1865.  Her father was a native of the eastern portion of Ohio, where he was born in 1839, and he passed away in Decatur twenty years ago.  Mrs. Edwards’ mother was born in Illinois in 1846 and died while her children were very small.  She had nine children but only four are now living.  Besides Mrs. Edwards there are: Anna, the wife of Lincoln Zorger, of Clinton; R. P., of Oklahoma; and L. E., who lives near Clinton.

Mr. and Mrs. Edwards became the parents of eight children.  E. P., born while the family lived near Clinton, July 19, 1885, married Miss Ivy Shoemaker and they live in Nixon township.  They are the parents of three children, Pleasant, Caroll and Cecil, twins.  Smith, born in DeWitt county, June 19, 1888, was an exceptionally bright young fellow, universally liked by all who knew him.  His death, which occurred March 10, 1910, caused deep sorrow to a large circle of friends and acquaintances who knew him and admired his excellent qualities.  He was a graduate of the Weldon high school and was a student of exceptional attainments.  His body lies in the Weldon cemetery.  Clifford, born April 21, 1890, while the family was living in DeWitt county, has just completed a course of study in the Normal College at Bloomington and gives promise of becoming a steady, reliable business man.  Russell, born July 22, 1892, in DeWitt county, lives at home, as does Bonnie, who was born in this county, January 29, 1894.  Icyphene, born September 13, 1897, Anna, born February 10, 1899, and Fern, born October 20, 1901, are all natives of DeWitt county.  The grandchildren of Mr. and Mrs. Edwards, children of Mr. and Mrs. E. P. Edwards, are as follows: Pleasant, born March 18, 1906; Caroll and Cecil. twins, born March 3, 1908.  Mrs. Edwards comes of a family of veterans of the Civil war, several brothers of her mother serving throughout its entire length.

Following his marriage Mr. Edwards settled upon a farm lying near Clinton.  For eleven years he lived there engaging in general farming and stock-raising.  Then he rented a tract of two hundred and forty acres on section 22, Nixon township, from J. K. Zorger, and lived there for a time.  In the year 1908 he removed to his present home, having purchased one hundred and twenty acres in section 20, Nixon township.  He is engaged in general farming and makes a specialty of fattening stock for the market.  A republican in politics, he has held no office save that of school director of the township, directing all his energies toward business pursuits.  He is identified with several fraternal organizations, being a member of the Knights of Pythias and the Modern Woodmen of America.  With his wife and family, he holds membership in the Methodist Episcopal church, teaching a class for the study of the Bible lessons which is known as the old ladies’ class.  Very intelligent, yet of quiet, droll manner, Mr. Edwards is universally respected and admired.

Note: His full name was Thomas Jefferson Edwards.

WILLIAM S. EDWARDS.  (Volume II, Page 303)

W. S. Edwards, one of the most highly esteemed citizens of Creek township, who is successfully engaged in agricultural pursuits on section 34, was born in Ashland county, Ohio, May 29, 1858, and is a son of Samuel and Catherine (Berg) Edwards of whom more extended mention is made in connection with the sketch of T. J. Edwards on another page of this volume.  Being brought to this state at an early age, our subject acquired his education in a brick schoolhouse which stood on the present site of the residence of Hon. Tillman Lane in the village of Lane, where he pursued his studies for about eight years.  At the age of seventeen he began earning his own livelihood, working by the month for various farmers and at the carpenter’s trade with an uncle.  He continued to be thus employed until his marriage, at the age of twenty-three years.

On the 4th of March, 1882, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Edwards to Miss Ada L. Ball, a native of Macon county, Illinois, and a daughter of James and Angeline (Bennett) Ball, whose sketch also appears in this history.  This union has been blessed by six children, all born in DeWitt county: Augusta, born September 8, 1883, is now the wife of Henry Welge, living four miles east of Maroa, and they have two children, Fern and Grace.  Clara, born September 12, 1885, is the wife of Charles Hienle, living north of Argenta, and they have one son, Kenneth.  Grace, born March 4, 1886, is the wife of Adolph Welge, whose home is north of Argenta.  Frank, born February 6, 1890, attended the State University at Champaign, Illinois, for one year and was also a student in the Normal School for the same length of time.  Two died in infancy.

After his marriage Mr. Edwards located on his grandfather’s farm south of Lane, which he rented for five years and for the following eight years operated the farm of C. H. Moore near Shiloh.  He next removed to the J. H. Hendrix farm, where he lived for seven years and in the spring of 1904 purchased one hundred and sixty acres on section 34, Creek township, where he now resides.  He is also operating a rented tract of sixty acres and upon this place erected a beautiful home in 1905.  He has made many other needed improvements and today his farm is supplied with all the conveniences and accessories found upon the model farm of the twentieth century.  At the time of his marriage his property consisted mainly of one horse and a buggy, though he owed thirty-five dollars on the buggy, and his cash capital was only five dollars.  He began working at fifty cents a day, grubbing stumps, and the success that he has achieved in life is due entirely to his own unaided efforts.  He has labored industriously, lived economically, and by a wise use of the opportunities presented to him has steadily prospered until he is now the owner of a well improved and valuable farm.  For some time he was interested in the threshing business but has recently sold his machine.  He now has an elegant home and a fine automobile in which he is able to enjoy the prosperity that has come to him.

Since attaining his majority Mr. Edwards has affiliated with the republican party and has filled the office of school director.  Fraternally he is connected with the Modern Woodmen of America.  During the winter prior to his marriage he was converted and has since been a devoted member of the United Brethren church, having since held various offices, including those of steward, class leader and teacher in the Sabbath school.  At the present time he is also a trustee of the parsonage and is an exhorter and local preacher.  In the last named capacity he holds the attention of the congregation and as a speaker of much more than ordinary ability exerts an influence for good that has been widely felt throughout the surrounding country.  His wife is also a member of the same church and takes an active part in its work.  It is safe to say that no couple in the community is held in higher esteem or has more warm friends than have Mr. and Mrs. Edwards.

HARRY S. FARMER.  (Volume II, Page 342)

Harry S. Farmer, who is efficiently serving as postmaster of Farmer City, is a worthy representative of one of DeWitt county’s pioneer families.  Born in this city on the 5th of November, 1868, he is a son of George W. and Elsie A. (Monnett) Farmer, both natives of Ohio, in whose family were five sons and two daughters, as follows: Franklin, of Farmer City; Byron, who died at the age of thirty-seven years; Dill, also of Farmer City; Mary, the wife of James Reed, of the same place; Harry S., of this review; and two who died in childhood.  The father came from the Buckeye state to DeWitt county prior to the outbreak of the Civil war and engaged in farming in Santa Anna township.  After the war had been in progress for a time, he put aside personal interests and enlisted as a member of Company F, Second Illinois Cavalry, serving as a private until the close of hostilities, his service at the front covering about one year.  Returning home, he resumed farming but a little later began dealing in horses and became proprietor of a hotel in Farmer City.  He was the eldest in a family of five children.  His parents, who were likewise natives of Ohio, died when well advanced in years.  The other members of their family were Lida, Henry, David and Tune.

After reaching mature years George W. Farmer wedded Elsie A. Monnett, a daughter of Isaac and Ruth (Wiggins) Monnett, who were also natives of Ohio, and like the Farmer family became pioneer settlers of DeWitt County.  They had but two daughters, the younger being Hannah.  Mr. Monnett passed away in Farmer City at the advanced age of eighty-three, while his wife lived to be seventy-two years of age.  Mr. Farmer was well and favorably known in Farmer City, where he spent many years of his life, and died here in October, 1902, when sixty-eight years of age.  His religious faith was indicated by his membership in the Methodist church.  He is still survived by his widow, who makes her home in Farmer City.

Harry S. Farmer, the fifth in order of birth in his father’s family, has spent his entire life in Farmer City.  He acquired his education here, completing the high-school course.  He afterward learned the blacksmith’s trade, which he followed for nineteen years.  On the 10th of January, 1910, he was appointed postmaster at Farmer City, and although his service has covered but a brief period he has already demonstrated his qualifications to fill the office to the satisfaction of his people and with credit to himself.

On the 30th of May, 1900, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Farmer and Miss Josephine Keller, a daughter of Austin and Alice (Miller) Keller, and a native of Mansfield, Piatt county, Illinois.  Her paternal grandfather, Henry Keller, was one of the early settlers of DeWitt county, coming here from Ohio.  He was the first president of the village of Farmer City after the name was changed from Mount Pleasant and was a minister of the Christian church.  The maternal grandparents of Mrs. Farmer are Joseph and Mary (Slick) Miller, the former a native of Ohio and a pioneer settler of Piatt county, Illinois, where he engaged in farming.  He still owns a farm in that county but now makes his home in Farmer City, which has been his trading point for many years.  He is now eighty-three years of age.  His wife died in 1908, when seventy-eight years old.  Mrs. Farmer is the second in order of birth in a family of three daughters, her sisters being Lettie and Mary.  By her marriage she has become the mother of two little daughters, Pauline and Josephine.

Mr. Farmer is a republican in politics and for two years served as alderman.  His fraternal relations connect him with Kenilworth Lodge, No. 60, K. P., and with the Sons of Veterans, while his wife holds membership with the Christian church.  Both are worthy representatives of old and honored pioneer families of this section of Illinois.  Mr. Farmer is a most courteous and obliging gentleman, always finding time to give audience to all who call upon him, whether on matters of a business or social nature.  The people of Farmer City look upon him as an exemplary man and are proud to call him their own.

JAMES T. FLAHERTY.  (Volume II, Page 96)

A well improved farm of one hundred and sixty acres located in Clintonia township, is the property of James T. Flaherty and it pays a substantial annual tribute to the care and labor which he bestows upon the place.  His birth occurred in McLean county, Illinois , November 21, 1870, his parents being Anthony J. and Margaret (Conroy) Flaherty.  The father, a native of Ireland , born March 18, 1839, was a son of James and Nora Flaherty, who lived and died in the land of their nativity.  In 1864 the father accompanied a brother to the United States and located in McLean county, Illinois .  He was there married in January, 1868, to Miss Conroy, a daughter of Patrick and Bridget Conroy, and a native of Washington county, Pennsylvania , born in 1856.  Her parents came to Wilson township, DeWitt county, about 1864.  Unto Mr. and Mrs. Flaherty were born three sons and five daughters: James T., of this review; Mrs. Mary O’Neil, of DeWitt county; Michael; Jennie; Nora, the wife of J. W. Ryan; Elizabeth; Rose E.; and Thomas, who died in infancy.  Mr. Flaherty continued his residence in McLean county until 1873, when he removed to DeWitt county, locating on a farm in Wilson township, where he engaged in general farming, owning at the time of his death, in 1909, three hundred and sixty acres of productive land.  He was a democrat in his political views and was a man highly respected in the community in which he made his home.

James T. Flaherty was a little lad of but three years when he was brought by his parents to DeWitt county, so that practically his entire life has here been passed.  He acquired his education in the district schools.  On putting aside his text-books he assisted his father in the work of the home farm, thereby gaining the knowledge of agricultural pursuits that has enabled him in later years to carry on business on his own account.  For the past eleven years he has followed farming on one hundred and sixty acres, which formerly constituted a part of the old homestead, this tract lying in Clintonia township.  He does general farming, his fields responding readily to the care and labor which he bestows upon them, and he also makes a specialty of raising good grades of horses.

On the 27th of December, 1904, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Flaherty and Miss Catherine Byrne, a daughter of James and Ann Byrne, natives of Ireland .  Mrs. Flaherty was born there in 1882 and came to America in November, 1900, and her mother is now living with her.  A little daughter and son grace the home of Mr. and Mrs. Flaherty: Margaret, who was born December 11, 1906; and Paul, whose birth occurred April 24, 1908.

In politics Mr. Flaherty is a democrat and has served as democratic committeeman of Clintonia township.  He also filled the same position in Wilson township two terms and was clerk of the latter township two terms.  He also filled the office of tax collector.  He has never been known to take advantage of another in any business transaction but is always reliable and persevering, placing his dependence upon indefatigable industry and careful management for the attainment of success.

ALFRED V. FOOTE, D.D.S.  (Volume II, Page 92)

Dr. Alfred V. Foote not only occupies a prominent position in professional circles but is a leader in musical circles as well and is today regarded as one of the foremost citizens of Weldon.  He was born in Ithaca New York, on the 10th of March, 1880, a son of Dr. P. L. and Frances (Van Kirk) Foote, also natives of that place, who are now living in Poughkeepsie New York.  The father was born April 20, 1850, and is still actively engaged in the practice of dentistry.  The birth of the mother occurred on the 12th of October, 1855.  They are the parents of four children.  Sadie, the eldest of the family, spent one year at Vassar and is now the wife of William Bussing of Poughkeepsie, where they are carrying on business as manufacturers of flags and pennants for colleges all over the United States and have built up an excellent business which is constantly increasing.  The others are Alfred V., of this sketch; and Percy and Harold, who are residents of New York city.

Dr. Alfred V. Foote began his education in the public schools of Poughkeepsie and was later graduated from the high school at that place.  Deciding to follow the profession in which his father was engaged, he entered the Philadelphia Dental College and was graduated from that institution in May 1902.  He began practicing in Chicago, where he remained for one year, and in 1904 came to Weldon, DeWitt county, where he has since secured a large patronage, being today the only dentist in the place.  He is a man of exceptional ability in his line and the extensive practice which he now enjoys is certainly well merited.

On the 12th of January, 1903, Dr. Foote was united in marriage to Miss Mary G. Waechter, who was born in Poughkeepsie New York, April 7, 1883, and is a daughter of Godfrey and Elizabeth (Morey) Waechter.  Her parents are also natives of the Empire state, the father’s birth occurring in New York city in April, 1850, while the mother was born near Kingston New York, in 1858.  They now make their home in Poughkeepsie and have only two children, the elder being John Waechter, also a resident of that city.  Dr. Foote and his wife have two children, both born in Weldon: Laura, whose birth occurred December 3, 1905, and Philip, born April 23, 1907.

Since attaining his majority Dr. Foote has affiliated with the Republican party and is today a prominent member of the Modern Woodmen of America and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, being secretary of the latter lodge.  He is also a member of the I. O. O. F. band of Weldon and has had charge of the same since locating here.  Both he and his wife are active members of the Methodist Episcopal church.  People of culture and refinement, they occupy an enviable position in social circles and have been a great acquisition to the society of Weldon.  Having earned the money with which to pay his expenses through college, the Doctor may truly be termed a self-made man and the success that has come to him is but the just reward of his own perseverance, enterprise and industry.  He is broadminded and liberal in his views, is a man of high literary attainments and musical ability, and the band under his direction has attained to a high state of efficiency.  He has a very modern and attractive office, up-to-date in all its appointments and it is safe to say that no man in the community stands higher in social, professional or business circles than Dr. Foote.

ERNEST L. FOSTER.  (Volume II, Page 316)

Just six years ago in December, 1910, The Kenney Gazette changed hands, S. A. Edwards, its former owner and editor, handing over his pen to Ernest L. Foster, who came from Girard, Illinois, and since that time Mr. Foster has published the Gazette, giving to local readers the latest news of interest to the community which he serves.  His newspaper, a weekly, is a credit to the town and to its editor.

Ernest L. Foster was born at Girard Illinois, February 4, 1874, and is a son of David M. and Harriet Josephine (Steidley) Foster, the parents being esteemed residents of that place.  His father was born at Carlisle Kentucky, November 17, 1848, and came to Greene county, Illinois , with his parents in 1864, later removing to Girard.  He was always engaged in farming and died November 19, 1908, at Girard.  His wife was born near Girard, February 21, 1852, her father being Joseph Steidley, who died several years ago, while her mother, who is only recently deceased, was Elizabeth Cherry prior to her marriage.  Mrs. Foster is yet living, making her home with her children at Girard.  Ernest L. Foster is the eldest of a family of four children.  His brothers and sisters are: C. Leslie, of Girard; Mrs. J. G. Baker, of Mattoon Illinois; and Miss Minnie Foster, of Girard.

Ernest L. Foster was educated in the common schools of Girard and also took the high-school course, later graduating from a business college at Lincoln Illinois.  Completing his education, he became bookkeeper in one of the local banks at Girard, later serving in the same capacity at Divernon Illinois.  It was while at the latter place that he began learning the printer’s trade, which practical beginning in the newspaper business ultimately led him into the editorial chair.  Before beginning his career as an editor, however, he bought grain for the George W. Brown firm at Glenarm Illinois, later handling the banking business of that firm and finally taking a position with a local bank there, which he held for two years.  After finishing his time as apprentice printer, he came to Kenney and bought out the Gazette, December 28, 1903.

Mr. Foster was married December 29, 1896, to Miss Jessie M. England, a daughter of John and Susan England, of Girard Illinois.  By this marriage there were born the following Children: Lorraine L., Helen E., Catherine M. and Milton L.

Mr. Foster is a member of Henderson Lodge, No. 820, A. F. & A. M., of Kenney Illinois; is a past grand of Kenney Lodge, No. 557, I. O. O. F.; is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America and of the Brotherhood of American Yeomen.  He has served the village of Kenney in the capacity of school director and village trustee and has the welfare of the community at heart in all that he does.  His newspaper is the most reliable of its kind and has a wide circulation.

EDMUND W. FRUIT.  (Volume II, Page 106)

Inseparably associated with the history of DeWitt county is that of the Fruit family, for they were among the early pioneer settlers.  On the paternal side the family comes of Welsh ancestry and on the maternal side of Scotch-Irish lineage.  Two brothers bearing the name left Wales and emigrated to America prior to the French and Indian war.  Both were soldiers in that struggle and were with Braddock at the time of his disastrous defeat by the French and Indian allies.  In the battle the brothers were separated and one was never heard from afterward.  John Fruit, the survivor, who became the progenitor of the family in America , settled in the Carolinas after the war.

Thomas Fruit, the father of Edmund W. Fruit, was born in North Carolina ,October 5, 1784, and in 1802 went with his father to Kentucky , settling in Christian county, where he remained until 1834.  He then came to Illinois and took up his abode in what is now DeWitt county, then, however, a part of Macon county.  In company with some friends and land explorers, he had come to Illinois in 1827 and entered land but did not locate here permanently until 1834, arriving here on the 15th of November of that year, when he settled on section 14 in what is now known as Tunbridge township.  Here he remained until his death, which occurred December 15, 1871.  While a resident of Christian county, Kentucky , he married Elizabeth Thompson, the wedding being celebrated July 31, 1806.  Her death occurred March 28, 1866.  By this marriage there were born six sons and six daughters.  Mrs. Fruit was a native of North Carolina and was sixteen years of age when she went to Kentucky .  She was the youngest child of the Thompson family and when a little maiden had the misfortune to lose her mother, who was drowned.

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Fruit took up their abode on a tract of six hundred acres of wild land and he at once began improving it, erecting the necessary buildings and a log house for the shelter of the family.  He and his wife did the work of those pioneer days and had the satisfaction of developing a fine farm.  The log house was twenty by twenty feet and its furnishings were somewhat primitive, but it was a hospitable home in which their friends ever received a cordial welcome.  Although the tract of land was large, Mr. Fruit fenced it and spared no pains to improve both his land and his home.  The children born unto Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Fruit were named as follows: Susan W., James S., Thompson C., William L., Mary R., Sabilla M., Sidney C., Edmund W., Martha J., Enoch A., John D. and Elizabeth P.

Edmund W. Fruit, the eighth in order of birth, was born in Christian county, Kentucky , September 21, 1823, and came to DeWitt county, Illinois , at the age of eleven years with his parents.  Here he was reared amid the customary surroundings of pioneer life.  His early education was obtained in log schoolhouses of that day, the buildings being chinked with mud and floored with puncheons full of slivers.  At the age of twenty years he started out in life on his own account and worked at whatever he could get to do, his only possessions being the clothing he wore and one horse.  He traded the horse for a forty acre tract of land, which he broke, and in the following winter cut rails and fenced it.  The next year he broke prairie and did general work.

In the fall of 1844 Mr. Fruit returned to Kentucky to see an elder brother, and while there made the acquaintance of Miss Elizabeth Boyd, whom he married on the 5th of March, 1845.  He remained in Kentucky for eighteen months, which time was occupied in farming and working for his brother.  In the fall of 1846 he came again to DeWitt county, settled on his land and built a log cabin, which he occupied for several years.  In 1858 he built a frame house, in which he resided until the year 1891, when he removed from the old homestead to a farm located on the edge of the town limits of Kenney.  There he owned one hundred and seventy-one acres of excellent land on section 15, Tunbridge township, upon which he erected a large modern residence, supplied with all conveniences.  There he spent his remaining days, surrounded by many comforts, and on the 7th of August, 1907, he passed away.  His wife died August 8, 1856.

Five children were born of the union of Mr. and Mrs. Fruit.  Phoebe A., the eldest, was born in Christian county, Kentucky , and died in infancy in DeWitt county, Illinois .  Sydney J. became the wife of John A. Barnett, a farmer of Barnett township, and their children were as follows: Mary, the wife of David Bartley, of Barnett township; Etha; Alberta R.; Laura; John; Charles; Frederick; and Arthur.  James A. married Sarah J. Stoutenborough, and they reside on section 25, Tunbridge township, where he follows farming.  They have three children, Garrett E., Harry M. and Rose.  Mary is the wife of Frank Barnett, of Clinton, and they have five children living, Frank, George, James, William and Floyd.  Luke F. died in infancy.

After losing his first wife Mr. Fruit was married again on the 5th of November, 1857, his second union being with Miss Sarah E. Blue, a native of West Virginia , and three children were born unto them.  Arthur W., the eldest, a resident of Michigan , married Ella J. Squier, and they have seven children, Charles C., Clementine, Elizabeth, Elsie, Mabel, Nellie and Edmund.  Laura B. is the wife of Benoni G. Clark and with their two children, Mary E. and Edmund W., they reside on the home place at Kenney.  Charles T., a son of Edmund W. Fruit, died at the age of two years.  The mother of these children passed away April 28, 1873.  All of the children of Edmund W. Fruit were born in Tunbridge township with the exception of the eldest, who was a native of Kentucky .  After the death of his second wife Mr. Fruit wedded Susan E. Blue, who was born in West Virginia and died January 16, 1880.  He then married Miss Isabella Blue, a sister of his late wife.  She was a native of Hampshire county, West Virginia , and died February 16, 1906.

Politically Mr. Fruit was originally a Henry Clay whig.  In 1864 he joined the democratic party and remained a member of that political organization until his death.  In his religious faith he was a Universalist.  As the architect of his own fortunes he builded [sic] wisely and well, for at the time of his death he owned over twenty-five hundred acres of as fine land as can be seen in central Illinois.  He was a man who found his greatest enjoyment in the companionship of his home and friends.  Among his neighbors and friends he was recognized as a man of rare foresight and open-handed charity.  His ambition and highest aim in life was to be a successful and independent farmer, and well did he succeed to that position.  He was honorable in all of his dealings, every business transaction being characterized by the strictest integrity.