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 P - Q - R

NATHAN PAKER.  (Volume II, Page 192)

Nathan Parker, a retired farmer and honored citizen of Weldon, was born in Champaign county, Ohio, on the 16th of June, 1846, his parents being David and Maria (Johnston) Parker.  The birth of the father occurred in the same state, January 20, 1810, but the mother was born in Virginia, January 11, 1816. During the fall following the birth of our subject his parents brought their family to Illinois and settled in Coles county, the trip being made with teams across the country.  They did not reside there long, however, for in the spring of 1851 they came to this county and settled in Dewitt township, where the father commence farming.  He died soon after his arrival here, passing away on the 26th of April, 1851, and was laid to rest in DeWitt cemetery.  In his family were seven children of whom five are still living: Mary, born June 10, 1838, now the widow of J. T. Dillavou and a resident of South Dakota; Nancy, born November 19, 1839, now the wife of Samuel W. McNier, a resident of Nixon township, this county; John J., who was born December 2, 1841, and died in 1862, being buried in DeWitt cemetery; Aaron, who was born May 31, 1844, and died in 1864 from exposure contracted in the Civil war being a member of the One Hundred and Seventh Illinois Volunteer Infantry; Nathan of this review; Margaretta, born June 16, 1849, now the widow of Gordon McDeed, a resident of Creek township; and David, who was born August 18, 1851, and is also a resident of Creek township.  The mother was again married, her second husband being William R. Dillavou, by whom she had one child, L. C., who was born September 21, 1858, and makes his home in Henry county, Iowa.  The mother died March 9, 1892, when she had reached the age of seventy-six years, one month and twenty days, and she was buried in Weldon cemetery.  She was a member of what was then known as the New Light church and was a most estimable lady.  She was one of the early settlers of this region and was held in the highest respect by all who knew her.

Reared amid pioneer surroundings, Nathan Parker began his education in the old time subscription schools and later attended the district schools of Creek township.  He remained with his widowed mother until twenty-two years of age and for six or seven years he and his brother David operated the home farm in partnership and met with most excellent success.

On the 29th of April, 1877, was celebrated his marriage to Miss Amanda Minerva Fondersmith, who was born in Franklin county, Ohio, May 11, 1860, her parents being William and Sarah (Kistle) Fondersmith, who were also natives of that state, the former born in April, 1837, and the latter in 1836.  The mother died in September, 1871, and was buried in DeWitt cemetery, but the father is still living and now makes his home in Missouri.  Of their eight children four survive and in order of birth they are as follows: Amanda M., the wife of our subject; Olive, who died in infancy; Frank, a resident of Oklahoma; Emma, the wife of Aaron Goodale of Weldon, Illinois; Charles, who also makes his home in this state; Sarah Alice, who died in 1897; Dora, who died in childhood; and Margaret, who died in infancy.  For his second wife the father married Mary Crane, who died in 1881, leaving one child, Lena, now the wife of Albert Summers of Missouri.  His third wife was Elizabeth Blankenship, by whom he has one child, May.  Five children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Parker: John A., born in Creek township, January 4, 1879, was married January 25, 1905, to Miss Anna Laura Rainey, by whom he has one child, Mildred, born May 18, 1908.  They live in DeWitt township.  Charles David, born in Nixon township, February 18, 1881, was married February 17, 1904, to Miss Minnie G. Garrett and lives in Friends Creek township, Macon county, Illinois.  Lottie M., born in Nixon township, September 23, 1883, is the wife of Charles C. Lisenby, assistant cashier of the State Bank of Weldon and they have one son, Donald Almon.  Nellie May, born in Nixon township, May 5, 1888, is at home with her parents.  Howard Russell, born December 2, 1889, died January 8, 1891, and was buried in Weldon cemetery.

After his marriage Mr. Parker settled on a farm near Argenta, in Macon county, where he lived until 1880, and then removed to Nixon township, DeWitt county, buying fifty acres of land.  Subsequently he purchased forty-five acres more and his home place consisted of eighty-five acres on section 18 and fourteen acres on section 19, Nixon township, to the improvement and cultivation of which he devoted his energies for several years.  In connection with general farming he also engaged in stock-raising to some extent, but in January, 1906, he laid aside active labor and removed to Weldon, where he purchased a pretty place in the eastern part of the village.  In 1909 he sold his farm in Nixon township and purchased another of one hundred and four acres near Argenta in Macon county.

The republican party finds in him a stanch supporter of its principles and he has been honored by various local offices, serving as school director for sixteen years and as justice of the peace for four years.  He affiliates with the Modern Woodmen of America and both he and his wife are devoted members of the Methodist Episcopal church of Weldon.  Their married life has been a very happy one and they have labored together, success coming to them as the result of their united efforts.  Mr. Parker possesses a wonderfully retentive memory and can relate many interesting incidents of pioneer life.  He is a great Bible student and he and his family are particularly noted for the kindness they have ever manifested toward each other, a degree of genuine affection rarely witnessed.  He is a pleasant, genial gentleman and has a host of warm friends throughout DeWitt county.

BENJAMIN F. PELTZ.  (Volume II, Page 148)

Benjamin F. Peltz, editor and proprietor of the Clinton Daily Journal with offices at No. 210 East Main street, was born in Mechanicsburg, Ohio, February 17, 1868.  His parents were John A. and Nancy (Cheney) Peltz, natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio respectively.  The latter was the daughter of Benjamin and Jane Cheney, who were farming people of the Buckeye state.  John A. Peltz figured in business circles as a district insurance agent.  He was a soldier of the Union army, serving in the Twentieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry throughout the Civil war as a private and on one occasion was wounded.  In his religious faith he was a Universalist.  He died in 1881 when about fifty-five years of age and is still survived by his widow, who is a resident of Clinton.

Benjamin F. Peltz was reared in Mount Pulaski, Illinois, from the age of six years, at which time his parents took up their abode in that place.  He attended the graded and German schools there and on the 7th of August, 1881, began learning the printing business, with which he has since been connected in one capacity or another.  He has worked on nearly every metropolitan paper in the United States, either in the mechanical construction or reportorial department, coming to Clinton from Boston in 1893, later purchasing the Clinton Times and changing the name of the paper to the Clinton Daily Journal, which has a morning edition.  He has gradually increased the circulation and enlarged the plant and the paper is now being conducted in terms of tangible profit.

On the 5th of February, 1895, Mr. Peltz was united in marriage to Miss Minnie Zombro, a daughter of Jacob Zombro, and they have one child, Ralph.  The family residence is at No. 215 North Jackson avenue, where Mr. Peltz erected a good home in 1905.  In politics he is independent and conducts his paper along that line.  His position, however, is not an equivocal one on any vital question, his influence being on the side of progress, reform and improvement.

WILLIAM C. PERKINS.  (Volume II, Page 403)

Among the self-made men of DeWitt county is W. C. Perkins, owner of a good, well kept farm on section 21, Nixon township, and one of the more progressive men of the county.  Equipped with an excellent education and an unmeasured capacity for hard work, he has made a position for himself in the community which is an enviable one.  Not only that, but he did it after giving his health and strength to the support of the union of these states of America, as he is a veteran of the Civil war.

Born in Oregon county, Missouri, July 3, 1844, W. C. Perkins is the son of the late Stephen and Nancy (Casey) Perkins, who were esteemed residents of the county in which they lived so long.  The father was born in Oregon county, as was his son, the year of his birth being 1819, and he is buried in the county of his birth, his death having occurred a number of years ago.  Nancy (Casey) Perkins was a native of Jefferson county, Illinois, born near Mount Vernon.  She was a relative of Governor Casey of Illinois and one of her uncles built the penitentiary at Joliet.  At a reunion of the Casey family, which was attended by Mrs. Perkins, there were gathered together fifteen hundred who were related either by marriage or birth.  Mrs. Perkins’ father and seven brothers came from Germany to America and settled in Illinois and Ohio.  All of the brothers enlisted in the Union army upon the outbreak of the Civil war and served throughout its course.  Mrs. Perkins died in Oregon county, Missouri, when in her fifty-eighth year, and is buried beside her husband.  They had six children, four of whom are now alive.  Besides W. C. Perkins, of this review, the other children were: Zimri, now living in Texas; Mary, the wife of John Meredith, a very wealthy stockman of Oregon county, Missouri; Jacob Lee, now deceased; Thomas and Ephraim, both of Missouri.

Educated in the schools of Miller county, Missouri, where he lived during his youth, W. C. Perkins secured a good education in the English branches.  He then attended the high school at Tuscumba, Missouri, and at the age of eighteen years went to Mississippi, where he enlisted at the outbreak of the Civil war.  He was assigned to the Third Mississippi Infantry, in which he served for two years and ten months.  At the battles of Shiloh, Wilson Creek, Missouri, Carthage, lnka, Bolivar, Hollow Springs and the siege of Vicksburg he participated with his regiment and was disabled through sickness contracted while actively engaged in service.  For this reason he was discharged at Canton, Mississippi, and after the war he returned to the north.  He came to Illinois in the spring of 1864, settling in Jefferson county, where he took up farming.  The year 1878 saw him moving to DeWitt county, he having been previously married.  Here he was employed at the drainage work for several years, after which he operated a farm lying north of Weldon for two years.  He next removed to Piatt county, where for three years he engaged in farming.  At the end of that time he had accumulated sufficient money to enable him to purchase a farm and he moved back into this county, settling upon his present place of one hundred and sixty acres, which was then the Judge Davis place, on section 21, Nixon township.  He has since lived here, developing the farm until it is one of the best in this section.

It was in November, 1865, that W. C. Perkins and Miss Nettie Eble were united in marriage.  Mrs. Perkins is a daughter of Joseph and Serena Irene Eble, and was born in Monticello, Piatt county, Illinois.  Her parents were both born in Germany and were early settlers of Piatt county.  Her mother died six years ago, while her father died while she was yet quite a child, being buried in Monticello.  The mother is lying in the burial grounds at Weldon.  They were the parents of a large family of children.  Besides Mrs. Perkins there are: Lewis, living at Mansfield, Illinois; Anna, the wife of William Rucker, of Weldon; Aaron, of Dixon, Illinois; Dora, the wife of Stephen Zorger; Minnie Suttles, living on the home farm in Missouri; and Henry, of Weldon, Illinois.

Mr. and Mrs. Perkins are the parents of five children, four of whom are living.  Edward, born March 13, 1882, is an employee of the postoffice department, being rural route carrier on Route No. 2, Weldon, Illinois, which position he has filled for three years.  Grace is the deputy carrier, filling the position creditably when business or illness makes it impossible for her brother to ride the route.  Nora Maude is the wife of Alfred Johnson, a teacher in Cisco, Piatt county, Illinois.  Dora, born in 1885, died at the age of seventeen years, and is buried in Weldon.  Grace makes her home with her parents.  Ada is the youngest member of the family.

Mr. Perkins and family are members of the Methodist Protestant church.  His wife belongs to the Protective League, while Mr. Perkins is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America.  In politics a democrat, yet he is decidedly independent in his political views.  Broad minded and liberal in his views, he numbers his friends by the hundreds as do his entire family.

HARVEY R. PERSINGER.  (Volume II, Page 47)

Harvey R. Persinger, a well known agriculturist of Texas township, has won a gratifying measure of success in the conduct of his general farming interests.  His birth occurred in Shelby county, Ohio , in 1855, his parents being William M. and Eliza (Christman) Persinger, who were likewise natives of that county.  The paternal grandparents came from the east and were farming people.  The grandfather was born in 1800, while William M. Persinger, the father of our subject, first opened his eyes to the light of day in 1832.  He remained on the home farm until twenty-one years of age and then worked out for a time.  The year 1868 witnessed his arrival in DeWitt county, Illinois , and here he purchased forty acres of land.  As the years passed by and his financial resources increased, owing to his untiring industry and capable management, he added to his landed holdings by additional purchase until at the time of his death he owned three hundred and eighteen acres, all in this county with exception of eighty acres in Macon county.    His political allegiance was given to the republican party and he capably served as justice of the peace.  At the time of the Civil war he enlisted as a member of the Union army, serving for one hundred days.  His demise occurred in 1902 and was the occasion of deep and widespread regret in the community where he had resided for more than a third of a century.  His wife was called to her final rest in 1905.  Their children were five in number, as follows: Harvey R., of this review; Newton R., who is a resident of KenneyIllinois; Charles G., living in Iowa ; Leana Florence, who is the wife of L. D. Scott and makes her home in California ; and Nettie, deceased.

Harvey R. Persinger, who was a youth of thirteen years when he accompanied his parents on their removal to Illinois , obtained his education in the schools of DeWitt county.  After putting aside his text-books he assisted his father in the operation of the home farm, first working by the month and later being taken into partnership with his father.  Since the latter’s death the old homestead property in Texas township has been in possession of Mr. Persinger of this review, who recently extended its boundaries by the purchase of a tract of fifty acres adjoining.  He has brought the fields under a high state of cultivation and improvement and annually gathers rich crops which find a ready sale on the market.

In June, 1903, Mr. Persinger was united in marriage to Mrs. Ella Catlin, a daughter of William Ankrum, of Piatt county, Illinois .  Their home has been blessed with one child, Gaile, who was born in 1905.

Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr. Persinger has supported the men and measures of the republican party, believing that its principles are most conducive to good government.  He has a host of warm friends throughout the community in which he resides and is widely recognized as a substantial agriculturist and respected citizen.

ABNER R. PHARES.  (Volume II, Page 166)

In the history of DeWitt county’s oldest settlers mention should be made of A. R. Phares, who has here resided for sixty-one years, arriving in 1849 when a lad of twelve.  His early experiences here were those usually to be met with upon the frontier and as time has passed on he has taken an active and helpful part in the work of general development and improvement.  He was born in Madison county, Ohio, October 29, 1836, and is one of the seven children of Allen W. and Permelia (Willard) Phares, who were likewise natives of the Buckeye state.  The former was a son of Robert Phares, who was born in New Jersey and was of Scotch-English descent.  His business activities connected him with farming and auctioneering and his public service was performed as justice of the peace.  He married a Miss Clevinger and both died in Ohio well advanced in years.

They had a large family, including Samuel, Joel, Amy, Lizzie and Martin.  The maternal grandfather of Abner R. Phares was Abner Willard, a native of Connecticut and of English lineage.  He was a farmer by occupation and served as a colonel in the war of 1812.  He married Miss Huldah Culver and they removed to Madison county, Ohio, where they passed away when well advanced in years.  Their children were: Permelia, Mary, Angelina, Calvin, Spencer and James.

Allen W. Phares was a farmer and stock-raiser in Ohio.  When he came to DeWitt county, Illinois, in 1849, he bought the property now known as Weldon Springs for fifty cents per acre.  He also purchased the Weldon farm, which was partially improved, at five dollars per acre and lived thereon for a few years, giving his attention to general agricultural pursuits.  He then removed to Clinton, where he became connected with merchandising, establishing a general store and also conducting a lumberyard and livery stable.  Just before the war he went to Galesburg, where he conducted a butcher shop and also cultivated a farm near that city.  Subsequently he took up his abode in Galesburg in order that his children might enjoy the advantages offered by the educational institutions there.  He died in 1893 at the age of eighty years and his wife passed away in 1884 at the age of sixty-eight years.  Both were consistent members of the Universalist church.  In their family were two sons and five daughters: Martin, now deceased; Abner R.; Mary Helen, the deceased wife of T. S. Hamlin; Huldah J., who is the widow of Thomas Rowan and resides in Galesburg, Illinois; Ella, the deceased wife of William Rowan; Albina, the deceased wife of Richard Conklin; and Louise, the deceased wife of Richard Rogers.

Abner R. Phares was a lad of twelve years when he came to DeWitt county in 1849 and has here resided for sixty-one years.  The pursuits of farm life early became familiar to him.  He herded cattle and tilled the fields until 1853, since which time he has lived in Clinton.  He completed his education by study in Lombard University at Galesburg.  He then conducted a grain commission business for two years and also bought grain and hay for the army during the Civil war.  During the war he established a grocery store and continued in that business with gratifying success until 1883, when he turned his attention to the banking business, becoming cashier of the DeWitt County National Bank, which he represented for two years.  He then put aside business cares and has since lived retired in the enjoyment of a well earned and well merited rest.

On the 14th of March, 1861, Mr. Phares was united in marriage to Miss Nellie C. McGraw, who was born on the present site of Clinton, May 22, 1843, and is a representative of one of the oldest families of this part of the state, her parents being John J. and Jemima (Lane) McGraw.  Her father was born in South Carolina and the mother in Kentucky.  They came to Illinois in 1830, settling in Rock Creek, near the present site of Waynesville.  Mr. McGraw was a school teacher and for many years served in public office, filling the position of county clerk for thirty years.  He was also county judge for a number of years and long filled the position of justice of the peace, during which time he performed the marriage ceremony for over five hundred couples.  Mr. McGraw was one of the best known men who have lived in this county and was held in uniform respect by all who knew him.  He died in June, 1885, at the age of seventy-nine years and six months, while his wife passed away in 1876 at the age of seventy years.  They were both loyal to the teachings of the Methodist church in which they held membership.  Judge McGraw, as one of the pioneer settlers, took an active part in the early progress and development of the state and served as a soldier in the Black Hawk war.  Unto him and his wife were born four children: Melvina, the deceased wife of William Greer [Grier]; Leander S.; Margaret, the deceased wife of John A. Phares, a cousin of Abner R. Phares; and Nellie C., the wife of our subject.  The paternal grandparents of Mrs. Abner R. Phares were James and Jennie (Murphy) McGraw, who came from Ireland to the new world, settling first in South Carolina and afterward living in Alabama.  The maternal grandfather of Mrs. Phares was a native of Kentucky and wedded Margaret Lyon, a native of Connecticut.  They were pioneer residents of DeWitt county, where their last days were spent.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Phares have been born six children: Cora Louise, the eldest, is the wife of Henry Sawyer of Clinton and they have two children, Eleanor and Eloise; Claude Willard, who maried Gussie Hutchins, is engaged in the grocery business in Clinton; Cuba Albina became the wife of Charles F. Bryant and died, leaving a daughter, Helen; Cortland Reece died at the age of eight years; Lloyd Abner, who married Edna James, by whom he has a daughter, Barbara Ruth, is now a farmer and stock-raiser of Texas township; and one child of the family died in infancy.

Mrs. Phares is a member of the Methodist church and is an estimable lady whose many attractive qualities win her high regard.  In politics Mr. Phares is a republican and when a young man was elected to represent his ward in the city council.  He served as a member of the school board for several years and has ever been helpfully interested in the cause of public education and of progress along the various lines that conserve the best interests of the community.  In his business affairs he has prospered and is now the owner of a valuable farm of three hundred acres in Tunbridge township, upon which he made his home for four years.  He also owns a large tract of land of three hundred and twenty acres in Texas township and another farm of one hundred and twenty acres in Texas and Clintonia townships, where his son Abner Lloyd is now living.  In addition to this property he has a beautiful home in Clinton and is a stockholder in the State Bank.  His extended possessions indicate his activity in business, his capable management and intelligent direction of his investments in former years.  He is one of the well known citizens of the county and all with whom he has come in contact entertain for him high regard, his many good qualities having gained for him the kindly consideration of those with whom he has been connected in business or social relations.

ULYSSES S. GRANT PHARES.  (Volume II, Page 175)

Ulysses S. Grant Phares, now successfully engaged in farming on section 14, Nixon township, is one of DeWitt county’s native sons, his natal day being October 7, 1867.  His parents, H. C. and Nancy (Peddicord) Phares, are both natives of Ohio, the former born on the 3ist of March, 1834, and the latter on the 26th of February, 1841.  In early life they came to Illinois and the father settled in DeWitt county and the mother near Clinton.  They were subsequently married and have continued to make their home in this section of the state, being now residents of Weldon.  They attend the Methodist Episcopal church at that place and are held in the highest esteem by all who know them.  During the Civil war the father enlisted in Company E, Twentieth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and participated in a number of engagements.  Our subject also had several uncles who likewise were in the service.  Of the nine children born to Mr. and Mrs. H. C. Phares, five are still living, namely: Nevada, now the widow of Louis Trummel and a resident of Clinton; Alice, the wife of Emmet Gray, of Weldon; Ulysses S. G., of this review; Minnie, the wife of James Rhoades, living in this county; and Wallace, a resident of Clinton.

Here U. S. G. Phares was reared and educated, pursuing his studies in the country schools, and he remained at home giving his father the benefit of his labors until twenty-three years of age.  He then commenced farming for himself and for one year carried on that occupation in Piatt county.  In 1893, however, he returned to his native land and for nineteen years he cultivated three farms belonging to Andrew Allan.  At the end of that time he removed to the farm of one hundred and sixty acres upon which he now resides and to its further cultivation and improvement he has since devoted his energies, carrying on stock-raising in connection with general farming.  He is a progressive agriculturist and is thoroughly familiar with every department of his work.

On the 18th of February, 1892, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Phares and Miss Elizabeth Mawhinney, who was born in Randolph county, Illinois, April 6, 1871, a daughter of William and Elizabeth (Wylie) Mawhinney, both natives of Ireland.  The father died when Mrs. Phares was a little child.  He was born in 1812 and on coming to the new world first settled in Missouri, but later removed to Illinois.  Mrs. Mawhinney was born May 15, 1832, and died on the 8th of January, 1902, very suddenly at the home of our subject, being laid to rest in the Weldon cemetery.  She was the mother of ten children, of whom four still survive, namely: Mary, now the widow of John Quinn and a resident of DeWitt county; David and Samuel, who are also living in this county; and Elizabeth, the wife of our subject.  Mr. and Mrs. Phares have four children, all born in this county, who in order of birth are as follows: Ely, born April 9, 1893; Cecil, January 19, 1896; Lotus, November 17, 1898; and Lester Taft, July 21, 1908.

Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr. Phares has been a stanch supporter of the republican party and was elected on that ticket as county supervisor for Nixon township.  Fraternally he is connected with the Knights of Pythias and the Modern Woodmen of America, while religiously both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church.  In all the relations of life he has been found true to every trust reposed in him and he is widely and favorably known throughout his native county.

WILLIAM D. RAINEY.  (Volume II, Page 139)

William D. Rainey, one of the foremost and representative farmers of the agricultural districts of DeWitt county, is held in high esteem by influential citizens of the community wherein he resides.  His farm, consisting of one hundred and sixty acres of well improved land, bespeaks the careful and energetic agriculturist and its productiveness is constantly increasing as a result of the employment of modern and scientific methods of cultivation.

On the 23d of July, 1867, in Macon county, Illinois, William D. Rainey was born.  His father, Perry Rainey, was a native of this state, his birth having occurred in 1838.  He is yet living at the age of seventy-two years, residing upon the homestead in Macon county.  His wife, who was Lucinda Irwin prior to her marriage, was born in 1845 and is still hale and hearty, passing her days with her husband upon the home place in which they have lived so long, loved and esteemed by all who know them.

William D. Rainey is the second child in a family of seven children, four of whom are yet living.  His brothers and sisters are: Ryland, of Macon county, Illinois; Mary, the wife of Frank Bullock, also of Macon county; and Lulu, the wife of Jacob Wert, also living in Macon county.  At the age of twenty-six William D. Rainey began life for himself.  He had received an excellent education in the public schools of the district and had acquired an all around education in farming by his association with his father upon the home place.  His first venture was made upon rented land.  He was highly successful and after several profitable years spent in this manner he was enabled through the economical management of his affairs to purchase property.  This was in 1897, a year after his marriage.  He decided to purchase land in DeWitt county and chose one hundred and twenty acres on section 21, Nixon township, which land he at present resides upon though he has improved and cultivated the place until it is greatly superior in condition to that which it was in when first he took charge.

On the 4th of October, 1896, Mr. Rainey was united in marriage to Miss Effie E. Adams, a daughter of Walker and Malinda (Hawley) Adams, of Macon county, Illinois.  Mrs. Rainey was born in that county, March 12, 1871.  Her father was born in Washington county, Illinois, in 1842 and died in 1881, being buried in his native county.  Her mother was also born in Washington county, Illinois, in 1853 and passed away in Macon county in 1890.  She, too, was buried in Washington county.  There were five children in the family of Walker and Malinda Adams, of whom Mrs. Rainey is the fourth in order of birth.  The others are: Jennie, widow of John Creekmier, of Macon county; William, of California; Emma, wife of Noah Hortman, living in Weldon, Illinois; and Charles, of California.

Politically, Mr. Rainey is an advocate of the principles of the democracy.  With his wife, who is a member, he attends the United Brethren church and both are held in high esteem, being earnest, thoughtful workers for the general welfare.  With a pleasant home and fruitful lands and a large number of friends, the couple lead a life which might well be emulated.

JAMES REYNOLDS.  (Volume II, Page 57)

A deep feeling of sadness spread throughout Clintonia township when it was announced that James Reynolds had passed from this life, but while those who knew him remain, his memory will be cherished, not so much on account of the splendid success which he achieved in business but because of his life of helpfulness, of good cheer, of broad sympathy and his deep interest in and labors for the benefit of his fellowmen.  He was born in 1854 in County Longford, Ireland, a son of James and Bridget Reynolds, who were likewise natives of the Emerald isle.  In 1865 the parents emigrated to the United States, locating in DeWitt county, where the father purchased eighty acres of land, which he operated until the time of his death in 1885.  Following his demise, his widow continued her residence on the homestead, passing away there two years later, in 1887.  In their family were the following children: John, a resident of Clinton, Illinois; Mrs. Celia Cunningham and Mrs. John Andrews, both residents of Springfield, Illinois; William, of Chicago; Michael, who died at the age of twenty-six years; Mrs. Daniel Cain, who died in 1909; and James.

James Reynolds was reared in the land of his nativity to the age of eleven years, when he accompanied his parents on their emigration to the new world, the trip across the Atlantic being an eventful one in the life of this lad.  He assisted his father in the tasks incident to the establishment of a home in DeWitt county, remaining under the parental roof until the time of his marriage in 1877, Miss Ella Ragan becoming his wife.  She is a daughter of Morris and Johanna Ragan, who were likewise natives of Ireland and, coming to America in an early day, located in Aberdeen, Ohio, where the father was a gardener and where both spent their remaining days.  Their family numbered five children: Ella, now Mrs. Reynolds; Thomas, who is married and lives in Ohio; Nancy, who died in infancy; Mrs. Mary Clough, of Illinois; and Terrance, who makes his home in Clinton.

Following his marriage Mr. Reynolds took his bride to his farm, which he had purchased just prior to his marriage, and this tract of eighty acres, located in Clintonia township, continued to be the scene of his activities throughout his life and is still the home of the family.  The place today, however, presents quite a different appearance from what it did at the time of his marriage, for as the years passed and his financial resources increased he wrought a great change in the appearance of his farm.  On the place stands a good country residence and substantial outbuildings and in the fields he used the latest improved machinery to facilitate his work.  He led a busy and active life until his death, which occurred in 1906.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Reynolds were born nine children: Mrs. John Summerville, who lives in Minnesota and has one child; Mrs. Otis Marvel, a resident of Waynesville, Illinois, and the mother of two children; Ella, Josephine and Celia, who are with their mother; Margaret, also under the parental roof; Geraldine; and Matthew J. and Morris J., who assist their mother in the management of the home farm.  The family are communicants of the Catholic church in Wapella.

Mr. Reynolds was a democrat in his political views, especially where national issues were involved, but at local elections he often cast an independent ballot.  He served as a director on the school board but otherwise was never active in public affairs.  He was a successful man, who owed his financial advancement to his own well directed efforts, business ability and unfaltering determination.  Moreover, he was at all times loyal to the teachings of his church and in his life he exemplified many of the sterling traits of the reliable citizen, the faithful friend and the devoted husband and father.

AUSTIN J. RICHEY.  (Volume II, Page 76)

Austin J. Richey, who has made his home in Clinton for the past fifty-eight years, here acted as justice of the peace and police magistrate for a third of a century and is widely recognized as a prominent and respected citizen.  He has now passed the eighty-first milestone on this earthly pilgrimage and is spending the evening of life in honorable retirement in his beautiful home at No. 806 West Main street .  He was born in Muskingum county, Ohio , on the 19th of February, 1829, a son of Samuel and Hannah ( Jackson) Richey.  Both were natives of Pennsylvania , the father’s birth occurring on the 13th of September, 1785.  John and Mary (Welch) Richey, the paternal grandparents were born in York county, Pennsylvania , the former on the 8th of July, 1755, and the latter on the 23d of May, 1760.  The grandfather, who was of Scotch-Irish descent, devoted his attention to farming throughout his active business career.  During the Revolutionary war he aided the colonists in their struggle for independence.  His demise occurred on he 10th of May, 1835, while his wife passed away January 6, 1835.  Their children were fourteen in number, namely: William, John, Welch, Samuel, George, Mary, Gideon, James, Nathaniel, Janet, David, Margaret, Esther and Joseph.  Thomas Jackson, the maternal grandfather of our subject, followed farming in Pennsylvania until the time of his removal to Ohio , in which state his death occurred.  His wife was Mrs. Barbara Jackson.

Samuel Richey, the father of Austin J. Richey, was a farmer by occupation.  He came to Illinois in 1868 and passed away in Clinton on the 18th of September of that year.  The demise of his wife had occurred in 1858.  They were originally identified with the Presbyterian church but later joined the Universalists.  Samuel Richey participated in the war of 1812.  Unto him and his wife were born nine children, four sons and five daughters, as follows: Matilda, Maria, Alexis J., Catherine, Susan, Samuel J., Austin J., Hannah Ann and Abel C. Thomas Richey.

Austin J. Richey was reared on a farm in his native county and began his education in a round log schoolhouse where slabs were used as seats and greased paper served for windows.  After putting aside his text-books he traveled with a theatrical company for three years, acting as leader of the orchestra.  In the fall of 1852 he came to Clinton Illinois, and for some years worked at the painter’s trade, also doing glazing and paper hanging.  Here he was elected justice of the peace and for thirty-three years held the office in connection with that of police magistrate, his fair and impartial decisions winning him “golden opinions from all sorts of people.”  Since abandoning public duties he has lived retired in the enjoyment of well earned ease.  He owns a finely improved farm of two hundred and eighty acres in Harp township, where his son resides, and also has a tract of forty acres in Clintonia township.

On the 30th of October, 1856, Mr. Richey was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Eliza Mitchell, whose birth occurred in Clintonia township, DeWitt county, on the 23d of March, 1841, her parents being William and Fannie Lee (Cundiff) Mitchell, natives of Virginia .  Benjamin Mitchell, her paternal grandfather, was born in Virginia and served in the navy at the time of the Revolutionary war.  He owned a large plantation and a number of slaves, all of whom he set free and presented with a sum of money.  He passed away in Virginia at an advanced age.  Unto him and his wife, who bore the maiden name of Deborah Perkins, were born nine children: Isaac, William, Benjamin, Paton, Mary, Deborah, Grace, Eliza and Ann.  Benjamin Cundiff, the maternal grandfather of Mrs. Richey, was a native of England and settled in Virginia after emigrating to the United States .  He was a vessel owner.  His wife, who bore the maiden name of Alcinda McTier, lived to attain the ripe old age of more than ninety years.  Unto them were born four daughters and three sons, namely: Benjamin L., Fannie, Nancy, Elizabeth, Sallie, William and Robert.  The parents of Mrs. Richey became early settlers of DeWitt county, Illinois , William Mitchell here purchasing a farm of one hundred and sixty acres.  He made a creditable military record in the war of 1812 and also won encomiums as a public official, serving as sheriff or this county for two years.  He passed away on the home farm when about forty-five years of age, while his wife died in Clinton at the age of seventy-five.  They had eight children: John Paton, Benjamin Thomas, Lucretia, James Dunbar, Deborah Perkins, William Thornton, Leander Smith and Mary Eliza.

Mr. and Mrs. Richey became the parents of two children.  Ernest Mitchell, the first born, died in 1858 when but six months old.  Louis Norma, an agriculturist of Harp township, wedded Miss Jessie L. Trask, of Michigan , by whom he has three children: Annie Lucile, Frank Trask and Gale Lee.

In politics Mr. Richey is a stanch republican, believing firmly in the principles of the party.  His wife is a devoted member of the Presbyterian church.  He is a musician and has in his possession a violin said to be over two hundred years old.  Mrs. Richey is a woman of literary tastes, takes great interest in educational matters and belongs to the Women’s Club.  On her mother’s side she is related to the family of General Robert E. Lee of Virginia .  Mr. and Mrs. Richey are people of culture and refinement and their home is a favorite resort with many friends.

CHARLES S. ROLOFSON.  (Volume II, Page 103)

Charles S. Rolofson, whose home is on section 30, Wilson township, is successfully engaged in farming and in the raising of stock and breeding of Percheron horses.  He was born on the 26th of September, 1865, in the house where he now resides, being a son of John Barber and Mary (Bird) Rolofson.  The father, who was born in White county, Illinois, June 23, 1826, and is a son of Moses Rolofson, is still living and is now a resident of Clinton.  His biography appears elsewhere in this volume.

During his boyhood and youth Charles S. Rolofson remained under the parental roof, receiving a fair common-school education and acquiring an excellent knowledge of agricultural pursuits.  On attaining his majority he commenced farming for himself upon his father’s place and has continued to make his home in DeWitt county except one year spent in McLean county after his marriage.  He now has under his control two hundred and eighty acres, which are well improved and under a high state of cultivation, for he is a progressive, up-to-date farmer, energetic and industrious.

In Clinton, Illinois, July 3, 1882, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Rolofson and Miss Minnie Washburn, of Heyworth, McLean county, where she was born, reared and educated.  Her parents are John and Mary (Rutledge) Washburn.  Unto Mr. and Mrs. Rolofson have been born eight children.  Grace is now the wife of William Whitney, Jr., who lives on a farm in McLean county, and they have two children, Floyd William and Charles Paul.  Monte, a farmer of Wilson township, married Estella McCannon and has one child, Evelyn.  Frank, who follows farming in McLean county, married Eva Reynolds and has two children, Anderson and Beryl.  Charles William is at home.  Ines is the wife of Fred McCannon and they have one child, Dean.  Lyle, Hugh and Clinton are all at home.

On attaining his majority Mr. Rolofson cast his first presidential ballot for Benjamin Harrison in 1888 and has since been a stalwart supporter of the republican party, with which his father also affiliates.  He was elected school director and filled that office for nine years, and was chosen supervisor of his township in 1906.  He served on the building committee, being chairman of the same in 1907 when the courthouse was remodeled.  In 1908 he was chairman of the committee on roads and bridges and while filling that position a large iron bridge with stone abutments was built in Wilson township and extensive repairs were made on other bridges by taking out concrete and putting in stone abutments.  In 1909 he was made chairman of the board of supervisors and by virtue of that position was also chairman of the board of review.  Public-spirited and progressive, he takes a commendable interest in every enterprise which he believes calculated to prove of public benefit and he is justly regarded as one of the leading and representative citizens of this county, with whose interests he has been identified throughout his entire life.

JOHN J. ROLOFSON.  (Volume II, Page 9)

John J. Rolofson, who since 1897 has served as postmaster of Wapella, is also known throughout various sections of the state as a live-stock auctioneer, his work in this connection being in constant demand.  He is a native of DeWitt county, born in Wilson township, October 1, 1862, and through several generations in the paternal line the ancestors have lived in the south.  He is a son of John B. Rolofson, who was born in White county, Illinois, June 23, 1829, his father being Moses Rolofson, who was born in Kentucky in 1802 and became a pioneer of Illinois.  Moses Rolofson was a son of Lawrence Rolofson, who was born in Pennsylvania, where he followed the cooper’s trade.  He later located in Virginia and after a time removed to Kentucky but spent his last days in Illinois, dying at a very advanced age.  Moses Rolofson spent the first twenty years of his life in Kentucky and in 1823 settled in White county, Illinois, where he was engaged in farming.  In 1834 he took up his abode in DeWitt county, where he remained one year, when he removed to McLean county and purchased land.  Later he removed to Iowa, but after a few years there spent, took up his abode in Missouri, his death occurring in the latter state in 1885, when he was eighty-three years of age.  His wife bore the maiden name of Ruth McClellan, who was born in South Carolina in 1800.  Her father, James McClellan, who was likewise born in South Carolina and was of Irish descent, served in the Revolutionary war.  Unto Mr. and Mrs. Moses Rolofson were born twelve children, of whom ten reached mature years, namely: Mary, Margaret C., John B., Jane, Lucinda, Robert, Arminda, Elizabeth, Adeline and Lucy.

John B. Rolofson, the father of our subject, was a little lad of six years when he accompanied his parents on their removal from White county to DeWitt county.  He acquired his education in one of the crude log schoolhouses which at that time was conducted on the subscription plan.  At the early age of fourteen years he began working out by the month, receiving a very meager wage.  For ten years he was thus employed, after which he purchased a farm, to which he added from time to time until he became a well-to-do and prosperous agriculturist of the county, owning land in both Wilson and Wapella townships.  For many years he was identified with farming interests and led a very busy and active life but is now living retired in Clinton.  On the 23d of November, 1851, he was united in marriage to Miss Mary Bird, who was born in White county, Illinois, in 1831.  Unto Mr. and Mrs. Rolofson have been born six children: James M., Mrs. Laura Swearingen, Belle, Mrs. Martha E. Thorp, John J. and Charles S.  The parents are members of the Christian church.  In politics Mr. Rolofson is a republican and while residing on the farm, served for seventeen years as highway commissioner, and in many other ways he took a prominent part in the upbuilding and improvement of the locality in which he so long made his home.

John J. Rolofson, the immediate subject of this review, spent the period of his boyhood and youth on the home farm in Wilson township, early being trained in the work of the fields, his time being thus occupied through the spring and summer seasons, while in the winter months he pursued his studies in the district schools.  In 1884 he began farming on his own account in Wapella township, operating rented land for six years.  At the end of that period, in 1890, he came to Wapella and opened a hardware store in connection with which he also handled farming implements.  He soon built up an extensive trade, his annual sales amounting to twenty thousand dollars a year.  In connection with his business interests he also bought and sold horses in the intervening years from 1892 until 1907 and in this way added not a little to his yearly income.  He still conducts many live-stock sales and is particularly successful in selling horses.  As an auctioneer he has gained a reputation surpassed by none, his services being in great demand.  On the 30th of June, 1897, Mr. Rolofson was appointed postmaster of Wapella during President McKinley’s administration and through reappointment he is still serving in this capacity.  He is a most obliging and courteous official and is discharging his duties with credit to himself and satisfaction to the public.

On the 27th of February, 1884, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Rolofson and Miss Effie M. Wilson, who was born in Wapella township, December 26, 1862, a daughter of John and Nancy A. (Funk) Wilson, early settlers of DeWitt county.  The maternal grandfather, Jesse Funk, was a prominent and well known resident of McLean county.  Mr. and Mrs. Rolofson have one son, John J., who after graduating from the Clinton high school, pursued a course of study in the Wesleyan University of Illinois where he received the degree L. L. B. in 1908 and later in Yale University, receiving his Master of Law degree with the class of 1909.  He was admitted to the Illinois bar in June, 1908, and is now practicing law at Pontiac, Illinois.  They also lost one son, William, who died in childhood.

Mr. Rolofson is an Odd Fellow and belongs to the Uniformed Rank of the Knights of Pythias.  He likewise holds membership relations with the Modern Woodmen, of which he has served as clerk for four years, and with the Elks and the Illinois Commercial Men’s Association.  In politics he is a republican, and both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church and Mr. Rolofson is superintendent of the Sunday school.  In whatever relation of life we find him—in the government service, in political circles, in business or in social relations—he is always the same honorable and honored gentleman, whose worth well merits the high regard which is uniformly given him.

ANDREW ROSE.  (Volume II, Page 246)

Although more than three decades have passed since Andrew Thomas Rose was called to his final rest, he is still remembered by many of Clinton’s older residents as a prominent factor in financial and commercial circles here.  He was born in Beardstown, Illinois, September 21, 1845, the only child of Alexander and Cynthia (Brown) Rose.  His paternal grandparents were Thomas and Sarah (Crouse) Rose, who came to this state from North Carolina in 1833, while his maternal grandparents were Henry and Elizabeth Brown.

When still but a boy Andrew T. Rose came with his parents to DeWitt county and grew to manhood in Clinton, attending the public schools in the acquirement of an education.  Subsequently he began clerking in Magill’s store and was thus employed for a number of years.  At the time of the Civil war he offered his services in defense of the Union, joining Company D, One Hundred and Seventh Illinois Volunteer Infantry, as a drummer boy.  He participated in many of the important engagements of the war and when hostilities had ceased was mustered out with the rank of captain.  He had never faltered in the performance of any task assigned him and his military record was a most creditable one.  On returning to Clinton he again secured employment as a clerk and later became cashier in Warner’s Bank, being thus identified with financial interests for a number of years.  Subsequently he formed a partnership with J. M. North for the conduct of a dry goods business but was compelled to retire a few years later because of ill health.  He passed away on the 4th of January, 1879, at the comparatively early age of thirty-four years, and thus the community lost one of its most respected and substantial citizens.

On he 13th of October, 1869, Mr. Rose was united in marriage to Miss Louise Kirkley, a native of Madison county, Ohio, and a daughter of James M. and Sarah (Hull) Kirkley, who were likewise born in the Buckeye state.  William Kirkley, the paternal grandfather of Mrs. Rose, was a native of Virginia and came of Scotch descent.  He followed farming as a life work and passed away in Madison county, Ohio, at the age of ninety-two years.  His wife, who bore the maiden name of Mary Cowan, also died there at an advanced age.  Their children were twelve in number namely: Asa, John, Cyrus, Rachel, James, Frank, Margaret, Argus and several who died in early life.  Benjamin Hull, the maternal grandfather of Mrs. Rose, was a native of Illinois and became one of the pioneer settlers of DeWitt county, here devoting his attention to general agricultural pursuits.  Both he and his wife, who bore the maiden name of Louisa Munson, lived to a ripe old age.  Their children were as follows: Trustun, Alfred, Sarah and Elizabeth.  The parents of Mrs. Rose came to Clinton, Illinois, in 1867 and James M. Kirkley remained one of the partners in the Warner Bank from the time of its organization until his demise.  He passed away on the 13th of April, 1874, when about fifty-seven years of age, while his wife, who survived him for more than a third of a century, was called to her final rest on the 17th of November, 1909, when eighty-five years of age.  They reared a family of five children, three sons and two daughters, namely: Josephine, the deceased wife of William Griffin, also deceased; Cyrus, a practicing physician of Toledo, Ohio; Mrs. Rose; Jonathan, who is a resident of Toledo, Ohio; and Marshall, who died at the age of seventeen years.  Unto Mr. and Mrs. Rose were born two children.  Nora Alice, whose demise occurred on the 13th of October, 1904, was the wife of George G. Argo, the present assistant cashier of the State Bank of Clinton.  Alta Rose died in infancy.

Mrs. Rose, who makes her home at No. 110 West Jefferson street in Clinton, is the librarian of the Clinton public library.  She is well qualified to discharge the duties devolving upon her in this connection, as her general knowledge is broad enough for her to direct the reading of those who seek for information or for entertainment through the published volumes which are found upon the shelves of the library.  Her religious faith is indicated by her membership in the Presbyterian church and she takes a helpful interest in its work.  The period of her residence in Clinton now covers more than four decades and the circle of her friends is a wide one.

ROBERT J. ROY.  (Volume II, Page 119)

Robert J. Roy, now deceased, was at one time a very prominent and influential farmer of DeWitt county and was a man honored and esteemed wherever known.  He was born on the 24th of January, 1846, in West Virginia and was a son of Jesse L. and Mary (Vance) Roy.  The first fourteen years of his life were passed in his native state and he then accompanied his parents on their removal to Heyworth, Illinois.  Of their twelve children five are still living, two sons and three daughters.  During his boyhood Robert J. Roy pursued his education in the public schools and remained under the parental roof until he reached man’s estate.  He began his business career as a farmer and continued to engage in agricultural pursuits in DeWitt county throughout life.

On the 25th of February, 1869, Mr. Roy was united in marriage to Miss Anna Arbogast, who was born on a farm in this county, July 17, 1851, her parents being Henry and Frances (Harold) Arbogast.  Her mother was a native of Virginia and her father of Ohio, but both were quite young when they came to Illinois and were married in this state, continuing to make their home here throughout the remainder of their lives.  In their family were six children but only three daughters are now living.

Mr. and Mrs. Roy became the parents of five children who in order of birth are as follows: Ilia Myrtle, born February 6, 1870, received a high-school education and died February 11, 1890, her remains being interred in Camp Grove cemetery where her father was also laid to rest.  Shannah, born September 9, 1871, became a music teacher and died February 9, 1892.  She, too, was buried in the same cemetery.  Both were exceptionally bright girls, beloved by all who knew them, and their loss was a great blow to their parents.  William, born in DeWitt county February 17, 1874, completed his education at Dixon College and subsequently married Miss Alice Wilson.  They reside on the mother’s farm in this county.  Gertrude, born October 22, 1883, is now the wife of William Creasey, a resident of Sandwich, Illinois.  Ruth, who completes the family, was born January 6, 1894, and is now attending high school.

Mr. Roy continued to follow farming throughout life and met with well deserved success in his labors.  He died very suddenly of heart trouble on the 21st of July, 1908, and was laid to rest in Camp Grove cemetery.  In politics he was a democrat and was called upon to serve as school director and road commissioner in his township.  Fraternally he was identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and his life was in harmony with the teachings of that organization.  He was a good moral man, generous almost to a fault, and always considered the pleasures of others first.  He not only left his family in comfortable circumstances but also bequeathed them an honored name.  Mrs. Roy occupies a beautiful cement home on West Market street in Farmer City, where she is surrounded by many of the comforts of life, and she has a wide circle of friends and acquaintances in the city and surrounding country.  She is an earnest member of the Methodist church and her pleasant, gracious manner wins the friendship of all with whom she is brought in contact.

WILLIAM B. RUNDLE.  (Volume II, Page 398)

William Bartrum Rundle, a well known and prominent resident of Clinton, has here made his home for more than a half century and has been continuously engaged in the butchering business for forty-five years.  His meat market is located at No. 118 East Main street and is conducted under the firm style of W. B. Rundle & Sons.  He was born in Devonshire, England, on the 5th of September, 1834, a son of William and Emma (Bartrum) Rundle, who were likewise natives of that country.  William Rundle, the paternal grandfather, followed farming as a life work and passed away in 1845.  Both he and his wife, Mrs. Thomazin Rundle, lived to attain a ripe old age.  Their children were as follows: William, John, Richard, Marjorie, Hannah, Jane and Mary.  Edwin Bartrum, the maternal grandfather of our subject, was engaged in the butchering business at Exeter, England, and also reached an advanced age.

William Rundle, the father of Mr. Rundle of this review, was a builder by occupation and spent his entire life in the parish of Stowford in Devonshire, England.  He acted as clerk of the parish in the Episcopal church.  Unto him and his wife were born five children, two sons and three daughters, namely: Mary, the deceased wife of W. H. Rowe; Emma, the deceased wife of Walter Pierson; William B., of this review; John, who has passed away; and Jane, the deceased wife of John Squance.

William Bartrum Rundle was reared in the place of his nativity and attended boarding school at Plymouth.  He was married in the parish church of Lifton, Devonshire, and in 1857 emigrated to the United States.  Locating in Wisconsin, he there turned his attention to general agricultural pursuits but the venture proved disastrous and at the end of eighteen months he came to Clinton, Illinois, arriving here in the fall of 1858.  During the following winter he was employed in a store and in the spring went to work at his trade of wagon-making, following that occupation for six years.  On the expiration of that period, in 1865, he embarked in the butchering business on the same site where his meat market is now located and has thus been continuously identified with mercantile interests to the present time.  In 1876 his establishment was destroyed by fire, but he at once erected another store and continued the business without interruption.  His patronage has steadily increased as the years have gone by and he has long been numbered among Clinton’s most prosperous, enterprising and respected citizens.

On the 11th of March, 1857, Mr. Rundle was united in marriage to Miss Emma Medland, a native of Devonshire.  England, and a daughter of William L. and Emma (Lavis) Medland, who were farming people of Devonshire and there passed away.  They were the parents of three daughters and two sons: John, William, Agnes, Bessie and Emma, all of whom are now deceased.  In May, 1857, scarcely two months after his marriage, Mr. Rundle brought his young bride to the United States.  Their union was blessed with thirteen children, seven sons and six daughters.  The surviving children, seven in number, are as follows: Albert William, who wedded Miss Annie Fitzsimmons, by whom he has three children, Almira, Cleo and William Bartrum; Fred Bartrum, who married Miss Annie Toohill and has two children, Hazel and Ed; Frank, who married Miss Clara Hinchcliff and has a daughter, Clare Elizabeth; Rose Mary, who is the wife of Abram Turlay and has five children, Harry, Emma, William Bartrum, Lizzie and Theresa; Bessie Emma, who wedded Henry Nebel and has three living children, Dora, Merle and Clarence; Nellie Pierson, who gave her hand in marriage to C. W. Danks; and Minnie, who wedded Henry Allwood, an engineer on the Illinois Central Railroad, by whom she has three children, Clyde, Emma Adelaide and Fred Ward.  All of the sons are associated with their father in business.  The wife and mother was called to her final rest in 1883 at the age of fifty years, passing away in the faith of the Presbyterian church, which she had joined in 1867.

Mr. Rundle was again married in Chicago, in June, 1905, his second union being with Mrs. Kate G. Jones, whom he met in Jerusalem while they were attending the fourth world’s Sunday school convention in 1904.  She was then the widow of the late Henry T. Jones, of Crystal Lake, Illinois, who was a retired brickmaker and contractor from Chicago.  She returned with the other delegates on the Grosser Kurfurst to New York, where she visited friends, and then proceeded to her home in Elgin, Illinois.  Mr. Rundle had left the vessel at Galle, France, and had gone to London, spending the summer with relatives and friends in England and returning home in August.  On their marriage they went to Toronto, Canada, where they attended the international Sunday school convention and returned home by way of the Thousand Islands and New York.  The following winter was spent in Florida and the south, visiting New Orleans, Havana, Cuba, Nassau and other points.  In 1907 they were the delegates to the fifth worlds’ Sunday school convention at Rome in May of that year, after which they made an extended tour through Italy, Switzerland, Belgium and other countries, returning by way of Paris and London.  They spent the summer months in England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, visiting Mr. Rundle’s old home in Devonshire and reaching the United States on the 1st of September.  On this trip they were accompanied by his granddaughter, Miss Myra Rundle.  He and his wife also attended the international Sunday school convention in Louisville, Kentucky, in June, 1908, and he was a commissioner to the general assembly of the Presbyterian church held in the city of Denver, May 20 to 28, 1909.  Mrs. Rundle joined him at its close and the summer was spent in visiting Los Angeles, San Francisco, the Yosemite, Yellowstone Park, British Columbia, and the west, returning in September by way of Des Moines, Iowa, and Chicago.

Politically Mr. Rundle has always been a temperance republican.  Both he and his first wife were reared in the Episcopal faith, but in 1867 they united with the Presbyterian church, in which Mr. Rundle has acted as elder for thirty-four years, while for thirty years he was superintendent of the Sunday school.  He has attended all the world’s Sunday school conventions, namely: London, 1889; St. Louis, 1893; London, 1898; Jerusalem, 1904; Rome, 1907; and Washington, 1910.  He has never had occasion to regret his determination to seek a home in the new world, for here he found the opportunities which he sought and through their wise utilization has gained a handsome competence.  His residence at No. 210 East Adams street is the abode of hospitality and good cheer.

DANIEL RUNG.  (Volume II, Page 186)

To be known as the oldest business man of such a place as Kenney, Illinois, requires that the person shall have taken up his calling quite early in life, and that is just what Daniel Rung, the oldest business man and the first blacksmith of Kenney, did.  Coming to DeWitt county thirty years ago from Logan county, Illinois, where he learned his trade at the fires of Adam Shaffer, the Mount Pulaski blacksmith, Mr. Rung chose Kenney, then in its infancy as a village, as his home, and, with an occasional interruption while he looked over land in the west and north, he has remained there ever since.

Daniel Rung was born at South Bend, Indiana, February 7, 1859, and attended school there until his family removed to Oregon, Missouri, in 1865.  He is a son, of John Adam and Margaret (Smith) Rung, both of whom died at Oregon, Missouri.  John Adam Rung was the son of John Rung and wife, who came from Bremen, Germany, in 1833 with their son John.  The family settled in New York city, where the father and son sawed wood for a time and gained enough money to permit them to make their first venture into the new country, as western Pennsylvania and Ohio were then called.  They collected fifty dollars by five weeks’ earnest work on the part of the two, which sum, according to John Adam Rung, "was enough to make us feel richer than Jay Cook ever did."  In fact, so much improved was the condition of the Rungs in the new country over that [which] they had endured in the old, that the father of John thought that such wealth as five dollars in one week was not only too much but bordered on the unlawful, and he talked with his son over the advisability of returning a portion of their earnings, fearing that a mistake had been made.

The first venture on the newly landed family was into Pennsylvania.  There the son worked on the Erie canal, then building, being seventeen years old at that time.  Two years after the family settled in Pennsylvania his brother and sister, Peter and Elizabeth Rung, came from Bremen and located near the homestead in Dauphin county.  Upon the completion of the work on the canal, John Adam Rung went to Cincinnati, Ohio, where he was employed in a stove foundry for a year.  He then removed to Michigan City, where he worked in a foundry for a time, then bought a forty acre plot of land near South Bend, Indiana, cleared and improved it and settled his family upon it.  Later he traded his farm for another of one hundred and twenty acres, which lies four miles north of the city of South Bend.  John Adam Rung was married to Margaret Smith in 1846, and their children were: Mary, deceased; Elizabeth, the widow of John Berger of Wiggins, Colorado; Peter, living at Mound City, Missouri; Jacob, the twin brother of Daniel, now living at Perkins, Oklahoma; Katie, wife of John Frost, of Roulau, Canada; and Henry, of Goodland, Kansas.  John Adam Rung died February 8, 1892, his wife Margaret having passed away in November, 1866.  Both died at the home in Oregon, Missouri.

Daniel Rung left Oregon, Missouri, in 1877 and settled at Mount Pulaski, Logan county, Illinois, where he learned his trade, as already stated.  He was eighteen years old at that time and was accompanied by his brother Peter and his sister Elizabeth.  He finished his trade after four years of profitable labor and study and then came to Kenney, starting the first fire in his own shop November 28, 1880.

On August 27, 1884, Mr. Rung was married to Miss Nettie E. Mitchell, a daughter of James and Josephine (Weaver) Mitchell.  Mrs. Mitchell died February 2, 1910, leaving her husband and daughter to mourn her loss.  To this union were born two children: Harry L., who died in infancy; and Vera Lee, who was born February 14, 1897.

Mr. Rung is chancellor commander of Kyle Lodge, Knights of Pythias, of Kenney, is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America, which he joined over twenty-one years ago, and has held all the offices in the several lodges to which he belongs.  What he prizes most of all in the way of honor or reputation is that which he has earned by close application to his work, together with detailed study at night, and the reputation won of being the very best blacksmith on implement work—be it shovels or intricate fittings—that this portion of DeWitt county has ever known.  It is a reputation of which one may well feel proud, yet Mr. Rung counts it but as a beginning, holding that one may always improve oneself—may always learn—even though he be rated as the best craftsman of the county.